unclean_a lust_n whatsoever_o this_o be_v the_o most_o sad_a condition_n when_o god_n do_v unchurch_n a_o people_n for_o their_o sin_n witness_v the_o habitation_n of_o these_o seven_o asian_a church_n wherein_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n in_o mahumatism_n and_o heathenism_n be_v set_v up_o in_o the_o room_n of_o christ_n holy_a doctrine_n and_o ordinance_n and_o all_o for_o their_o impenitency_n and_o obstinacy_n in_o their_o loud_a cry_v abomination_n and_o therefore_o i_o can_v too_o often_o recognize_v this_o verse_n to_o backslidden_a soul_n remember_v from_o whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v and_o repent_v and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o and_o will_v remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o repent_v verse_n 6._o but_o this_o thou_o have_v that_o thou_o hate_v the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o i_o also_o hate_n christ_n go_v on_o and_o tell_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n that_o though_o 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as_o m._n baxter_n assert_n in_o his_o book_n of_o infidelity_n p._n 132._o however_o we_o see_v their_o heresy_n be_v abominable_a for_o christ_n hate_v they_o and_o their_o heretical_a practice_n and_o opinion_n consist_v as_o antiquity_n testify_v under_o the_o name_n of_o christian_n to_o hold_v and_o practice_v all_o manner_n of_o corporal_a obscenity_n and_o adultery_n lawful_a and_o all_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a fornication_n and_o idolatry_n also_o and_o which_o they_o ground_v on_o this_o wicked_a principle_n that_o there_o be_v no_o difference_n in_o good_a or_o evil_n but_o only_o in_o opinion_n and_o therefore_o take_v liberty_n to_o all_o sort_n of_o wickedness_n and_o that_o these_o be_v chief_a head_n of_o their_o heresy_n be_v somewhat_o evident_a from_o verse_n 14_o &_o 15._o of_o this_o chapter_n where_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o nicolaitan_n be_v join_v and_o compare_v now_o we_o know_v that_o balaam_n wicked_a doctrine_n be_v to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a 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baxter_n out_o of_o historical_a antiquity_n page_n 129._o of_o his_o say_a book_n of_o infidelity_n speak_v of_o the_o nicholaitan_n who_o inhuman_a filthiness_n say_v he_o be_v such_o and_o their_o devilish_a conceit_n so_o many_o and_o vile_a that_o i_o will_v forbear_v to_o mention_v they_o only_o this_o they_o make_v themselves_o like_o christ_n and_o some_o of_o they_o to_o be_v equal_a to_o he_o and_o some_o the_o same_o with_o he_o that_o good_a and_o evil_n differ_v not_o in_o deed_n but_o in_o man_n opinion_n they_o worship_v image_n they_o live_v in_o such_o horrid_a way_n in_o lust_n and_o filthiness_n as_o be_v not_o to_o be_v name_v epiphanius_n himself_o unhappy_o fell_a in_o among_o they_o and_o know_v their_o way_n from_o their_o own_o mouth_n and_o action_n but_o happy_o escape_v when_o they_o will_v have_v draw_v he_o to_o their_o lust_n they_o have_v multitude_n of_o amaze_a word_n and_o notion_n like_o our_o behmenist_n that_o will_v bring_v a_o man_n into_o a_o suspicion_n of_o witchcraft_n to_o read_v they_o they_o use_v witchcraft_n and_o several_a sort_n of_o enchantment_n and_o keep_v devil_n in_o familiarity_n with_o they_o that_o by_o their_o mean_n they_o may_v increase_v their_o knowledge_n and_o power_n thus_o far_o m._n baxter_n and_o he_o profess_v afterward_o that_o it_o be_v not_o one_o nor_o two_o but_o all_o church_n history_n of_o those_o time_n that_o make_v mention_n of_o they_o do_v say_v the_o same_o thing_n and_o if_o they_o will_v read_v epiphanius_n himself_o who_o once_o fall_v in_o among_o they_o they_o will_v see_v much_o more_o have_v thus_o far_o describe_v the_o nicholaitan_n and_o their_o heresy_n in_o the_o next_o place_n take_v this_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o more_o pure_a sound_a and_o undefiled_a the_o church_n be_v the_o devil_n be_v most_o solicitous_a to_o raise_v heresy_n and_o schism_n in_o it_o how_o busy_a the_o devil_n be_v in_o those_o asian_a church_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n to_o bring_v 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call_v christian_n be_v true_o and_o worthy_o abominable_a this_o artifice_n and_o method_n satan_n keep_v still_o afoot_a to_o this_o day_n to_o vilify_v christ_n truth_n be_v and_o his_o follower_n by_o term_v their_o doctrine_n novel_a and_o new_a light_n though_o of_o above_o 1600_o year_n stand_v and_o of_o apostolical_a institution_n and_o if_o they_o prove_v faithful_a assertor_n of_o it_o be_v present_o term_v factious_a or_o schismatical_a for_o it_o be_v as_o they_o say_v disturber_n of_o the_o national_a peace_n perverter_n of_o custom_n law_n and_o government_n and_o forthwith_o brand_v with_o anti-magistratical_a and_o anti-ministerial_a title_n as_o if_o they_o be_v against_o magistracy_n when_o they_o say_v in_o the_o first_o place_n fear_v god_n in_o the_o next_o honour_v the_o king_n or_o if_o they_o be_v against_o all_o minister_n because_o they_o be_v against_o the_o formal_a lazy_a and_o belly-god_n priest_n who_o very_a form_n as_o carnal_a ordinance_n be_v 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of_o god_n both_o for_o their_o grace_n and_o suffering_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n but_o for_o such_o as_o will_v blaspheme_v the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o by_o mean_n of_o the_o evil_a among_o they_o and_o to_o cast_v a_o reproach_n tribulation_n and_o affliction_n thereby_o upon_o they_o all_o let_v they_o too_o withal_o not_o be_v discontent_v to_o read_v their_o judgement_n in_o this_o verse_n while_o they_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n observe_v 4._o the_o last_o note_n from_o these_o word_n shall_v be_v that_o a_o mislead_v zeal_n be_v both_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a little_o do_v the_o jew_n think_v that_o they_o be_v fight_v against_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n when_o they_o be_v persecute_v and_o blaspheme_v the_o professor_n of_o christ_n nay_o they_o do_v it_o and_o think_v as_o paul_n in_o his_o ignorance_n that_o they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n in_o it_o if_o our_o zeal_n be_v not_o commix_v with_o sound_a knowledge_n instead_o of_o promote_a the_o glory_n of_o god_n we_o may_v do_v the_o downright_a work_n of_o satan_n these_o poor_a jew_n have_v a_o indubitable_a aim_n and_o zeal_n to_o glorify_v god_n for_o so_o paul_n bear_v testimony_n of_o they_o rom._n 10.2_o but_o it_o be_v exercise_v amiss_o in_o that_o it_o be_v not_o according_a unto_o knowledge_n if_o their_o judgement_n have_v be_v right_o inform_v or_o bear_v the_o least_o proportion_n with_o their_o zeal_n they_o will_v not_o persecute_v the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n from_o city_n to_o city_n and_o from_o town_n to_o town_n much_o less_o put_v the_o lord_n of_o life_n to_o death_n among_o they_o but_o the_o scripture_n must_v be_v fulfil_v use_v christian_n now_o adays_o shall_v look_v to_o it_o lest_o they_o go_v about_o to_o do_v the_o work_n of_o satan_n when_o they_o blaspheme_v and_o persecute_v all_o other_o that_o be_v different_o mind_v from_o they_o in_o some_o particular_n they_o may_v call_v themselves_o christian_n but_o be_v not_o for_o it_o savour_v not_o of_o a_o christian_n spirit_n which_o be_v ready_a to_o cover_v and_o heal_v the_o infirmity_n of_o his_o christian_n brother_n not_o to_o revile_v or_o cast_v a_o rancour_n on_o it_o to_o gangrene_n it_o which_o be_v the_o work_n of_o satan_n though_o i_o be_o not_o for_o the_o least_o toleration_n of_o evil_n or_o heresy_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n yet_o i_o will_v have_v all_o to_o take_v heed_n how_o they_o blaspheme_v persecute_v or_o speak_v evil_a of_o that_o way_n or_o practice_v which_o have_v the_o visible_a stamp_n of_o christ_n upon_o it_o though_o at_o present_a by_o reason_n of_o some_o cloud_n of_o ignorance_n over_o they_o they_o can_v plain_o discern_v the_o truth_n of_o it_o in_o this_o case_n the_o counsel_n of_o gamaliel_n act_v 5._o be_v very_o seasonable_a refrain_v yourselves_o from_o these_o man_n and_o let_v they_o alone_o for_o if_o their_o work_n be_v of_o man_n it_o will_v sure_o come_v to_o nought_o but_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n you_o can_v destroy_v it_o lest_o you_o be_v find_v even_o fighter_n against_o god_n verse_n 10._o fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v behold_v the_o devil_n shall_v cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n that_o you_o may_v be_v try_v and_o you_o shall_v have_v tribulation_n ten_o day_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o a_o crown_n of_o life_n i_o know_v say_v christ_n the_o tribulation_n and_o affliction_n that_o will_v overtake_v thou_o o_o church_n of_o smyrna_n yet_o fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o thou_o neither_o art_n thou_o to_o suffer_v only_o the_o reproach_n and_o blasphemy_n of_o the_o tongue_n but_o also_o the_o devil_n shall_v so_o far_o prevail_v against_o you_o as_o by_o his_o instigation_n that_o the_o tyrant_n of_o the_o world_n and_o your_o malicious_a enemy_n shall_v so_o far_o persecute_v you_o and_o cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n but_o comfort_v you_o it_o be_v not_o for_o your_o destruction_n but_o only_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n and_o constancy_n to_o your_o christian_n profession_n and_o your_o tribulation_n be_v not_o for_o a_o little_a space_n but_o to_o continue_v ten_o day_n that_o be_v ten_o year_n that_o answer_v ten_o prophetical_a day_n or_o rather_o i_o understand_v it_o ten_o day_n of_o tribulation_n shall_v pass_v over_o you_o to_o wit_n the_o ten_o great_a primitive_a persecution_n the_o first_o whereof_o begin_v against_o the_o christian_n under_o nero_n and_o the_o ten_o under_o dioclesian_n yet_o however_o this_o long_a and_o tedious_a persecution_n reach_v thou_o yet_o leave_v not_o thy_o constancy_n but_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o thy_o lord_n and_o saviour_n though_o their_o persecution_n be_v so_o high_a and_o fiery_a as_o to_o make_v thou_o to_o taste_v the_o torture_n of_o death_n for_o thy_o faith_n yet_o be_v thou_o a_o faithful_a witness_n to_o i_o in_o that_o death_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v crown_v as_o a_o reward_n of_o thy_o faithfulness_n with_o the_o glory_n of_o eternal_a life_n observe_v 1._o from_o the_o word_n be_v god_n never_o let_v the_o devil_n loose_a to_o raise_v tribulation_n or_o persecution_n against_o his_o church_n but_o he_o give_v they_o first_o a_o cordial_a a_o preparative_n and_o strength_n from_o himself_o that_o they_o may_v not_o sink_v under_o ut_fw-la though_o they_o may_v suffer_v by_o it_o before_o the_o ten_o great_a day_n of_o persecution_n fall_v on_o the_o primitive_a asian_a church_n christ_n tell_v they_o fear_v not_o those_o thing_n which_o you_o shall_v suffer_v though_o imprisonment_n and_o death_n itself_o attend_v you_o for_o it_o be_v only_o for_o your_o trial_n and_o that_o your_o faith_n may_v be_v more_o apparent_a by_o your_o constant_a martyrdom_n in_o the_o face_n
light_n and_o sound_a knowledge_n if_o he_o be_v spiritual_o judicious_a and_o learned_a i_o wish_v he_o to_o search_v and_o inquire_v diligent_o true_a berean-like_a whether_o thing_n be_v so_o or_o not_o and_o declare_v it_o forth_o unto_o other_o so_o shall_v he_o deliver_v his_o own_o soul_n and_o his_o brother_n also_o from_o the_o snare_n of_o death_n to_o all_o which_o as_o the_o close_a of_o all_o i_o say_v amen_n who_o be_o kerris_n in_o cornwall_n nou._n 1._o 1658._o thou_o in_o all_o christian_a service_n william_n hicks_n the_o preface_n god_n speak_v at_o sundry_a time_n in_o old_a time_n to_o our_o father_n after_o a_o diverse_a manner_n by_o his_o servant_n the_o prophet_n but_o now_o in_o these_o late_a day_n he_o speak_v unto_o we_o by_o his_o son_n and_o his_o ambassador_n the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o christ_n and_o he_o that_o will_v desire_v to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n towards_o his_o people_n and_o church_n may_v by_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n move_v on_o his_o endeavour_n in_o search_v meditate_v and_o inquire_v into_o the_o word_n of_o god_n both_o old_a and_o new_a not_o only_o find_v out_o that_o treasure_n where_o out_o flow_v both_o new_a and_o old_a thing_n that_o will_v make_v his_o soul_n wise_a unto_o salvation_n but_o also_o he_o shall_v find_v a_o treasure_n of_o wisdom_n that_o will_v replenish_v his_o soul_n while_o here_o beneath_o in_o all_o the_o change_n of_o this_o world_n with_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o peace_n and_o comfort_n for_o what_o will_v add_v great_a hope_n or_o be_v a_o sure_a prop_n to_o a_o soul_n in_o the_o time_n of_o its_o affliction_n and_o mourning_n then_o to_o fore_o see_v know_v and_o be_v assure_v next_o to_o its_o interest_n in_o christ_n of_o the_o day_n of_o its_o deliverance_n this_o have_v be_v the_o ordinary_a portion_n and_o lot_n of_o every_o soul_n that_o be_v true_o interest_v in_o christ_n jesus_n through_o their_o several_a generation_n for_o the_o servant_n must_v not_o look_v to_o be_v great_a than_o his_o master_n christ_n enter_v into_o his_o glory_n by_o suffering_n temptation_n sorrow_n and_o the_o way_n of_o the_o cross_n his_o member_n must_v drink_v the_o same_o cup_n with_o he_o while_o here_o militant_a though_o not_o to_o the_o same_o measure_n nor_o to_o the_o same_o end_n for_o herein_o they_o be_v not_o make_v mighty_a to_o bear_v his_o suffering_n be_v to_o give_v satisfaction_n to_o divine_a justice_n that_o he_o that_o know_v no_o sin_n may_v be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o that_o we_o thereby_o may_v become_v the_o son_n and_o child_n of_o god_n our_o suffering_n be_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o grace_n and_o to_o fullfil_v the_o remainder_n of_o the_o suffering_n of_o the_o mystical_a body_n of_o christ_n in_o ourselves_o in_o our_o journey_v towards_o our_o celestial_a canaan_n and_o this_o have_v not_o only_o be_v the_o portion_n of_o particular_a member_n but_o of_o the_o whole_a body_n the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n in_o all_o age_n as_o appear_v by_o the_o history_n thereof_o yet_o notwithstanding_o our_o gracious_a god_n to_o manifest_v his_o fatherly_a oversight_n and_o faithful_a providence_n and_o goodness_n which_o he_o without_o intermission_n dispense_v towards_o his_o church_n and_o people_n have_v often_o for_o a_o comfort_n to_o the_o godly_a and_o warning_n to_o the_o wicked_a not_o only_o deliver_v they_o from_o their_o oppressor_n and_o set_v they_o above_o they_o but_o so_o prefix_v the_o time_n of_o their_o distress_n and_o deliverance_n that_o both_o they_o and_o their_o enemy_n themselves_o in_o observe_v the_o event_n must_v needs_o acknowledge_v the_o alwise_a hand_n of_o god_n providence_n to_o the_o one_o for_o good_a to_o the_o other_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n god_n have_v promise_v he_o will_v not_o be_v angry_a with_o his_o for_o ever_o god_n have_v his_o access_n and_o his_o recess_n his_o come_n in_o and_o his_o withdrawing_n towards_o his_o church_n some_o be_v conditional_a as_o if_o we_o keep_v with_o god_n he_o will_v be_v find_v of_o we_o but_o if_o we_o forsake_v he_o he_o will_v forsake_v we_o some_o again_o be_v absolute_a and_o out_o of_o sovereignty_n as_o that_o i_o will_v be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o seek_v i_o not_o etc._n etc._n yet_o however_o god_n purpose_n of_o do_v good_a to_o his_o church_n be_v so_o steadfast_a and_o unalterable_a that_o though_o many_o of_o they_o run_v upon_o the_o performance_n of_o some_o precedent_a condition_n or_o qualification_n in_o his_o people_n yet_o he_o will_v in_o faithfulness_n perform_v his_o promise_n towards_o they_o in_o their_o deliverance_n either_o by_o make_v they_o a_o fit_a people_n for_o so_o great_a a_o mercy_n by_o work_v the_o condition_n in_o they_o and_o so_o will_v make_v they_o a_o willing_a people_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o power_n or_o otherwise_o rather_o than_o any_o of_o the_o promise_n shall_v fall_v to_o ground_v unaccomplish_v will_v do_v it_o absolute_o of_o his_o good_a will_n and_o pleasure_n 1._o before_o the_o flood_n god_n give_v 120._o year_n respite_n to_o the_o old_a world_n before_o he_o will_v execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o they_o gen._n 6.3_o when_o this_o time_n be_v expire_v his_o spirit_n will_v contend_v with_o they_o no_o long_o but_o god_n come_v with_o the_o flood_n and_o destroy_v all_o live_n except_o noah_n and_o what_o be_v with_o he_o in_o the_o ark._n 2._o god_n declare_v to_o abraham_n that_o his_o seed_n shall_v be_v a_o stanger_n in_o a_o land_n that_o be_v not_o they_o in_o egypt_n and_o shall_v serve_v they_o and_o they_o shall_v afflict_v they_o for_o 400._o year_n but_o withal_o that_o nation_n who_o they_o shall_v serve_v he_o will_v judge_v and_o afterward_o they_o shall_v come_v out_o with_o great_a substance_n gen._n 15.13_o 14._o etc._n etc._n which_o promise_n god_n do_v fulfil_v most_o faithful_o unto_o they_o in_o its_o due_a time_n and_o after_o the_o expiration_n of_o the_o say_a term_n he_o bring_v out_o his_o people_n with_o a_o mighty_a and_o strong_a arm_n in_o drown_v the_o host_n of_o pharaoh_n in_o the_o red_a sea_n 3._o to_o that_o captivity_n in_o babylon_n god_n set_v a_o period_n of_o 70._o year_n jerem._n 29.10_o when_o that_o time_n be_v accomplish_v god_n stir_v up_o the_o spirit_n of_o cyrus_n king_n of_o persia_n to_o let_v the_o people_n go_v 4._o to_o daniel_n god_n show_v that_o 70._o week_n viz._n week_n of_o year_n be_v 490._o year_n be_v to_o be_v determine_v in_o which_o time_n the_o messiah_n shall_v come_v and_o be_v cut_v off_o and_o at_o length_n the_o city_n of_o jerusalem_n destroy_v dan._n 9.24_o 25_o 26._o verse_n and_o how_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v full_o accomplish_v be_v most_o evident_a to_o every_o one_o that_o know_v any_o thing_n of_o god_n deal_n towards_o his_o church_n and_o people_n 5._o in_o like_a manner_n there_o be_v a_o certain_a time_n set_v and_o determine_v upon_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n how_o long_o she_o shall_v be_v expose_v to_o persecution_n and_o when_o she_o shall_v be_v deliver_v from_o it_o which_o be_v express_v in_o the_o prophet_n daniel_n 7.25_o and_o the_o 12.7_o they_o the_o saint_n shall_v be_v give_v unto_o the_o four_o beast_n hand_n until_o a_o time_n time_n and_o the_o divide_n of_o time_n which_o prophecy_n of_o daniel_n do_v answer_v that_o of_o rev._n 12.14_o the_o woman_n which_o be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o tread_v under_o foot_n by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o beast_n for_o a_o time_n time_n and_o half_a a_o time_n which_o be_v to_o say_v as_o it_o be_v explain_v in_o the_o six_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n 1260._o day_n or_o year_n which_o term_v for_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o saint_n the_o power_n of_o the_o beast_n can_v exceed_v for_o he_o that_o have_v set_v a_o bind_v and_o period_n to_o all_o kingdom_n and_o empire_n in_o this_o world_n have_v say_v it_o hither_o thou_o shall_v go_v &_o no_o far_o and_o that_o angel_n in_o the_o prophet_n daniel_n 12.7_o hold_v up_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o left_a hand_n to_o heaven_n and_o swear_v by_o he_o that_o live_v for_o ever_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v but_o for_o a_o time_n time_n and_o half_a it_o be_v then_o clear_o evince_v that_o god_n will_v in_o his_o appoint_a time_n visit_v his_o church_n with_o sure_a mercy_n and_o have_v prefix_v in_o all_o age_n the_o time_n and_o continuance_n of_o their_o distress_n and_o persecution_n and_o that_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o visitation_n he_o will_v come_v with_o a_o certain_a deliverance_n to_o his_o people_n and_o ruin_n to_o his_o enemy_n it_o be_v matter_n of_o great_a joy_n &_o comfort_n to_o his_o
some_o of_o the_o mistake_v of_o our_o translator_n consult_v to_o this_o purpose_n luke_n 7.24_o mal._n 3.1_o and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v be_v better_o render_v here_o messengers_z write_v unto_o the_o messenger_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v so_o term_v because_o they_o be_v person_n send_v and_o commissionated_a by_o christ_n to_o preach_v and_o teach_v his_o gospel_n among_o his_o church_n matth._n 28.18_o have_v clear_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o angel_n or_o seven_o star_n of_o the_o asian_a church_n i_o shall_v draw_v these_o note_n observe_v 1._o christ_n have_v a_o especial_a eye_n of_o providence_n and_o hand_n of_o protection_n over_o all_o his_o faithful_a minister_n of_o his_o word_n in_o the_o most_o terrible_a time_n of_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n he_o take_v they_o in_o his_o right_a hand_n clap_v they_o under_o his_o wing_n for_o safety_n noah_n who_o be_v a_o preacher_n of_o righteousness_n be_v preserve_v in_o the_o ark_n when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v drown_v righteous_a lot_n be_v preserve_v when_o sodom_n flame_v in_o fire_n ezekiel_n daniel_n mordecai_n etc._n etc._n be_v preserve_v in_o babylon_n when_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o judah_n suffer_v all_o the_o misery_n that_o a_o insolent_a conqueror_n can_v lay_v upon_o they_o how_o luther_n be_v preserve_v when_o all_o the_o antichristian_a world_n seek_v his_o ruin_n be_v most_o admirable_a to_o consider_v i_o have_v hear_v it_o relate_v that_o that_o most_o famous_a minister_n of_o christ_n peter_n du_fw-fr molyne_n be_v preserve_v in_o paris_n be_v a_o suck_a child_n by_o his_o nurse_n under_o a_o tub_n when_o the_o bloody_a massacre_n do_v not_o spare_a man_n woman_n or_o child_n of_o the_o reform_a faith_n that_o he_o may_v afterward_o become_v a_o star_n in_o the_o firmament_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o all_o this_o be_v they_o that_o be_v most_o engage_v for_o christ_n in_o his_o work_n and_o ministry_n he_o do_v most_o engage_v for_o their_o safety_n and_o protection_n satan_n be_v their_o great_a enemy_n therefore_o christ_n be_v their_o great_a friend_n and_o bulwark_n oh_o that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o our_o church_n be_v shine_a star_n faithful_a angel_n or_o rather_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o god_n word_n and_o truth_n then_o christ_n will_v carry_v they_o in_o his_o right_a hand_n of_o protection_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n unto_o he_o the_o angel_n messenger_n or_o chief_a minister_n of_o these_o seven_o asian_a church_n be_v here_o represent_v by_o star_n star_n always_o in_o prophetical_a scripture_n signify_v eminency_n splendour_n light_n and_o excellency_n how_o be_v thou_o fall_v from_o heaven_n o_o lucifer_n thou_o son_n of_o the_o morning_n mean_v nabuchadnezzar_n isa_n 14.12_o and_o rev._n 18.10_o i_o see_v a_o star_n fall_v from_o heaven_n which_o connote_v the_o fall_n of_o a_o most_o eminent_a high_a and_o excellent_a person_n from_o hence_o note_n 2._o those_o that_o be_v the_o dispenser_n of_o christ_n mystery_n aught_o to_o be_v more_o eminent_a and_o excellent_a in_o knowledge_n and_o holiness_n than_o other_o inferior_a christian_n they_o be_v figure_v by_o star_n by_o the_o shine_a heavenly_a lamp_n they_o be_v the_o salt_n of_o the_o earth_n their_o lip_n shall_v especial_o preserve_v wisdom_n they_o shall_v be_v as_o star_n of_o the_o great_a magnitude_n shine_v in_o the_o firmament_n of_o their_o church_n they_o be_v the_o overseer_n of_o the_o flock_n to_o go_v in_o and_o out_o before_o they_o in_o soundness_n of_o life_n and_o doctrine_n yet_o too_o though_o their_o light_n be_v great_a shine_a and_o eminent_a yet_o let_v they_o consider_v they_o be_v but_o star_n their_o light_n be_v borrow_v from_o the_o sun_n they_o shall_v not_o advance_v it_o to_o that_o pitch_n as_o to_o make_v it_o a_o infallible_a light_n but_o they_o shall_v eye_v the_o son_n as_o the_o fountain_n of_o all_o true_a light_n to_o keep_v they_o in_o their_o proper_a sphere_n and_o not_o to_o lord_n it_o over_o the_o lord_n inheritage_n let_v they_o remember_v too_o that_o they_o be_v star_n whereof_o some_o may_v be_v erratic_a as_o well_o as_o fix_v once_o christ_n alone_o be_v the_o true_a light_n the_o true_a morning_n star_n that_o whosoever_o shall_v receive_v light_n from_o this_o true_a son_n of_o righteousness_n he_o can_v be_v deceive_v but_o at_o last_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o the_o father_n of_o all_o light_n 3._o another_o note_n be_v that_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n be_v in_o a_o high_a and_o honourable_a call_n they_o be_v figure_v under_o the_o type_n of_o star_n celestial_a light_n they_o have_v the_o same_o title_n of_o god_n minister_a spirit_n the_o angel_n they_o be_v his_o messenger_n that_o go_v on_o his_o errant_n his_o ambassador_n to_o treat_v with_o man_n about_o the_o great_a mystery_n of_o heaven_n hence_o arise_v another_o corrolary_n that_o all_o christ_n minister_n as_o they_o be_v star_n though_o differ_v from_o one_o another_o in_o glory_n in_o part_n gift_n and_o grace_n yet_o not_o differ_v in_o power_n nor_o lord_n over_o one_o another_o they_o be_v angel_n that_o be_v messengers_z ambassador_n not_o prince_n cardinal_n not_o lord_n bishop_n every_o church_n here_o have_v its_o angel_n its_o bishop_n its_o pastor_n its_o elder_a not_o many_o bishop_n not_o many_o elder_n in_o a_o classical_a form_n over_o divers_a church_n but_o every_o church_n have_v its_o angel_n its_o minister_n or_o officer_n ephesus_n have_v its_o anâ—gel_n smyrna_n its_o angel_n etc._n etc._n not_o that_o ephesus_n angel_n either_o single_o o._n joint_n with_o two_o three_o or_o more_o be_v superintendent_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n here_o be_v a_o far_a description_n of_o the_o terribleness_n of_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o vision_n when_o he_o come_v in_o power_n and_o judgement_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n and_o his_o face_n shine_v as_o the_o sun_n in_o his_o strength_n the_o sword_n of_o the_o mouth_n be_v take_v in_o scripture_n for_o the_o word_n or_o doctrine_n proceed_v from_o the_o mouth_n psalm_n 56.5_o prov._n 5.4_o job_n 5.15_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v a_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n it_o cut_v both_o side_n but_o in_o a_o diverse_a mode_n it_o wound_v the_o penitent_a but_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o to_o bring_v they_o unto_o christ_n and_o so_o it_o be_v mighty_a in_o operation_n heb._n 4.12_o and_o second_o it_o be_v a_o destroy_a sword_n to_o his_o adversary_n rev._n 19.15_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a sword_n that_o with_o it_o he_o shall_v smite_v the_o heathen_a hence_o observe_v christ_n word_n be_v very_o powerful_a and_o pierce_v it_o divide_v between_o the_o bone_n and_o the_o marrow_n between_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o spirit_n it_o be_v telum_fw-la achilleum_fw-la achilles_n spear_n that_o can_v both_o hurt_v and_o cure_v kill_v and_o make_v alive_a but_o it_o may_v be_v here_o question_v whether_o this_o figure_n of_o a_o two_o edge_a sword_n that_o go_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n may_v not_o signify_v and_o represent_v a_o material_a sword_n also_o i_o answer_v affirmative_o that_o christ_n also_o be_v to_o use_v that_o sword_n which_o be_v to_o smite_v the_o heathen_a with_o and_o that_o be_v a_o material_a one_o for_o he_o be_v to_o rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n rev._n 19.15_o now_o how_o it_o can_v be_v understand_v that_o christ_n be_v to_o smite_v the_o heathen_a with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n that_o be_v his_o word_n or_o rule_v they_o with_o his_o word_n and_o doctrine_n i_o see_v but_o small_a reason_n for_o such_o a_o interpretation_n and_o see_v too_o when_o he_o do_v this_o it_o be_v in_o fierceness_n tread_v the_o wine-press_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o almighty_a god_n but_o then_o some_o may_v say_v do_v christ_n judge_v and_o smite_v his_o enemy_n only_o by_o the_o material_a sword_n i_o answer_v no_o first_o he_o go_v out_o with_o the_o sword_n or_o spirit_n of_o his_o mouth_n to_o wit_n his_o divine_a truth_n and_o word_n to_o make_v manifest_a destroy_v and_o overthrow_v all_o antichristian_a idolatry_n and_o worship_n 2_o thes_n 2._o then_o second_o he_o go_v out_o on_o the_o red_a horse_n of_o war_n with_o a_o material_a sword_n to_o destroy_v the_o beast_n and_o the_o false_a prophet_n and_o their_o adherent_n and_o they_o be_v so_o smite_v and_o destroy_v that_o the_o fowl_n of_o the_o air_n be_v call_v to_o the_o prey_n to_o eat_v the_o flesh_n of_o king_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o captain_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o mighty_a man_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o horse_n and_o of_o they_o that_o sit_v upon_o they_o and_o the_o flesh_n of_o all_o man_n both_o free_a and_o bond_n
in_o part_n to_o come_v write_v without_o that_o be_v plain_a for_o discovery_n open_a to_o the_o view_n all_o which_o import_v that_o john_n be_v to_o write_v of_o the_o then_o present_a state_n of_o affair_n and_o of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v plain_a and_o open_a and_o as_o of_o thing_n that_o be_v and_o also_o of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o thing_n which_o be_v as_o a_o book_n write_v within_o seal_v and_o secret_a in_o respect_n of_o their_o futurity_n 2._o another_o note_n hence_o be_v that_o god_n true_a prophet_n and_o faithful_a minister_n will_v commend_v no_o more_o to_o the_o observation_n of_o their_o church_n as_o vision_n from_o god_n than_o what_o they_o have_v real_o see_v and_o have_v be_v discover_v from_o god_n unto_o they_o they_o be_v not_o to_o come_v with_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o their_o mouth_n and_o pretend_v vision_n from_o god_n like_o the_o false_a prophet_n in_o jer._n 14_o while_o their_o mouth_n and_o heart_n be_v full_a of_o lie_v vanity_n john_n write_v no_o more_o than_o what_o he_o see_v to_o the_o seven_o church_n nor_o discover_v no_o more_o than_o what_o he_o see_v be_v then_o present_a or_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v in_o after_o time_n what_o we_o have_v see_v and_o hear_v say_v the_o apostle_n we_o speak_v and_o be_v bold_a to_o preach_v and_o to_o commend_v unto_o you_o christ_n minister_n shall_v press_v no_o more_o than_o what_o they_o be_v assure_v be_v experience_v truth_n i_o doubt_v i_o every_o opinion_n concern_v outward_a form_n of_o government_n discipline_n and_o the_o like_a will_v not_o at_o last_o appear_v to_o be_v vision_n of_o god_n which_o some_o do_v now_o a_o day_n so_o hot_o contend_v for_o it_o may_v be_v one_o day_n say_v unto_o such_o hotspur_n boanerges_n son_n of_o thunder_n who_o require_v such_o thing_n at_o your_o hand_n while_o you_o let_v the_o great_a work_n as_o of_o love_n righteousness_n and_o judgement_n lie_v prostrate_a at_o your_o foot_n as_o if_o they_o do_v not_o concern_v you_o verse_n 20._o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n etc._n etc._n christ_n in_o the_o last_o verse_n to_o make_v thing_n plain_a unto_o john_n and_o to_o give_v he_o a_o taste_n of_o the_o discovery_n of_o those_o mystery_n in_o his_o book_n interpret_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o vision_n of_o seven_o star_n and_o of_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n present_v unto_o his_o sight_n in_o the_o precedent_n 12_o and_o 16_o verse_n and_o he_o call_v it_o the_o mystery_n of_o seven_o star_n and_o candlestick_n because_o indeed_o unto_o john_n it_o be_v a_o secret_a and_o hide_a thing_n what_o those_o figure_n of_o star_n and_o candlestick_n do_v mystical_o mean_a or_o represent_v and_o unto_o john_n it_o will_v be_v still_o a_o mystery_n if_o christ_n himself_o have_v not_o here_o interpret_v hence_o note_v that_o this_o book_n of_o revelation_n be_v make_v clear_a obvious_a and_o manifest_a by_o a_o diligent_a observation_n and_o a_o right_a applicationof_o the_o mystical_a character_n and_o figure_n of_o each_o vision_n christ_n himself_o in_o this_o verse_n have_v make_v the_o first_o entrance_n and_o essay_n on_o this_o account_n he_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n do_v mystical_o represent_v the_o seven_o angel_n or_o messenger_n of_o his_o church_n and_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n the_o church_n themselves_o in_o the_o seventeen_o chapter_n christ_n be_v more_o large_a in_o interpret_n the_o mystery_n of_o babylon_n the_o great_a the_o mother_n of_o harlot_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o connote_v unto_o we_o observe_v that_o the_o wise_a observant_a christian_n may_v attain_v unto_o the_o revelation_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o a_o diligent_a enquiry_n thereinto_o the_o spirit_n say_v often_o in_o the_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n and_o in_o chap._n 13._o vers_fw-la 18._o here_o be_v wisdom_n let_v he_o that_o have_v wit_n count_v the_o number_n here_o be_v the_o mind_n that_o have_v wisdom_n cap._n 17._o v._n 9_o so_o that_o it_o be_v for_o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n a_o intelligent_a understand_a ear_n and_o wisdom_n a_o wise_a heart_n to_o consider_v that_o be_v fit_a and_o capable_a to_o open_v and_o apply_v aright_o the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n it_o be_v a_o mystery_n therefore_o difficult_a to_o all_o but_o unto_o the_o spiritualised_a eye_n and_o unto_o the_o mind_n that_o have_v wisdom_n but_o it_o shall_v not_o therefore_o be_v account_v presumption_n in_o such_o to_o undertake_v this_o essay_n see_v it_o have_v please_v christ_n to_o give_v we_o the_o first_o fruit_n himself_o in_o open_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n and_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n which_o be_v as_o a_o entrance_n into_o the_o whole_a and_o since_o he_o have_v interpret_v unto_o we_o that_o by_o the_o seven_o star_n be_v mean_v the_o seven_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n by_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n the_o seven_o famous_a asian_a church_n by_o the_o woman_n array_v in_o scarlet_a the_o mother_n of_o harlot_n in_o the_o seventeen_o of_o the_o revelation_n to_o be_v the_o great_a city_n that_o reign_v over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o the_o beast_n with_o seven_o head_n and_o ten_o horn_n to_o signify_v a_o government_n empire_n or_o kingdom_n on_o seven_o mountain_n where_o the_o great_a harlot_n reign_v under_o ten_o king_n why_o shall_v it_o be_v think_v strange_a rash_a or_o presumptuous_a to_o interpret_v the_o rest_n of_o the_o mystical_a figure_n and_o hyeroglyphick_n character_n of_o this_o book_n according_a to_o their_o natural_a and_o genuine_a tendency_n and_o as_o they_o be_v open_v and_o apply_v in_o other_o prophetical_a writing_n by_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o prophecy_n who_o wisdom_n it_o be_v ever_o from_o the_o beginning_n to_o represent_v the_o rise_n progress_n and_o downial_n of_o the_o great_a empire_n and_o kingdom_n of_o the_o word_n by_o such_o dark_a and_o mysterious_a figure_n and_o representation_n unto_o god_n servant_n his_o prophet_n and_o conceive_v one_o great_a reason_n of_o this_o dark_a and_o mysterious_a carriage_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v that_o the_o intendment_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o power_n and_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n may_v be_v reveal_v and_o make_v know_v but_o unto_o few_o such_o as_o have_v spirit_n suitable_a and_o will_n to_o conform_v to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n for_o if_o those_o great_a event_n and_o revolution_n of_o state_n be_v make_v vulgar_a and_o know_v unto_o all_o it_o will_v raise_v innumerable_a combustion_n in_o the_o world_n and_o great_a suffering_n and_o affliction_n to_o the_o child_n of_o god_n from_o those_o power_n that_o they_o live_v under_o for_o who_o sake_n these_o great_a concussion_n and_o subversion_n of_o state_n and_o kingdom_n do_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o christ_n and_o their_o interest_n may_v be_v exalt_v at_o the_o last_o 2._o note_n that_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o word_n that_o make_v know_v and_o open_v the_o secret_n of_o all_o divine_a mystery_n unto_o his_o servant_n christ_n discover_v unto_o john_n those_o mystery_n of_o star_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v this_o spirit_n that_o search_v into_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n he_o shall_v take_v of_o i_o as_o christ_n say_v john_n 16.15_o and_o shall_v show_v it_o unto_o you_o and_o hence_o he_o be_v call_v the_o comforter_n because_o he_o make_v the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v beforehand_o hide_v in_o the_o bosom_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n manifest_a unto_o poor_a soul_n and_o so_o shed_v abroad_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n by_o faith_n the_o discovery_n of_o divine_a mystery_n be_v too_o high_a a_o work_n for_o the_o able_a and_o wise_a person_n in_o his_o natural_a capacity_n without_o the_o help_n of_o christ_n spirit_n for_o they_o be_v spiritual_o not_o carnal_o to_o be_v discern_v but_o to_o proceed_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n christ_n interpret_v to_o be_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n star_n in_o all_o prophetical_a writing_n do_v signify_v person_n of_o eminency_n and_o honour_n and_o in_o heraldry_n it_o be_v account_v the_o most_o noble_a sort_n of_o blazon_v peculiar_a alone_o to_o the_o armoury_n of_o prince_n the_o angel_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n or_o rather_o messenger_n for_o so_o the_o greek_a word_n signify_v because_o they_o come_v with_o the_o best_a message_n and_o news_n that_o ever_o come_v to_o man_n to_o wit_n the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o
peace_n through_o jesus_n christ_n and_o therefore_o beautiful_a be_v their_o foot_n and_o so_o may_v right_o be_v represent_v mystical_o or_o figurative_o by_o those_o lightsome_a and_o noble_a creature_n the_o star_n but_o to_o prevent_v tediousness_n in_o repetition_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o note_n on_o the_o precedent_n sixteenth_o verse_n where_o i_o have_v full_o discuss_v the_o same_o subject_n and_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n christ_n interpret_v to_o be_v the_o seven_o church_n to_o wit_n in_o ephes_n smyrna_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n in_o exodus_fw-la 25._o among_o the_o adorement_n and_o instrument_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n god_n command_v mâ—ses_n to_o make_v a_o candlestick_n of_o beat_a gold_n christ_n in_o this_o verse_n take_v up_o the_o figure_n and_o type_n of_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n to_o represent_v mystical_o his_o tabernacle_n with_o man_n his_o seven_o famous_a asian_a church_n wherein_o his_o glorious_a presence_n do_v most_o resplendent_o appear_v for_o it_o be_v say_v verse_n 13._o that_o he_o appear_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o in_o great_a lustre_n glory_n and_o splendour_n golden_a candlestick_n be_v fit_a type_n and_o emblem_n to_o represent_v christ_n church_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o choice_a metal_n they_o be_v golden_a candlestick_n observe_v christ_n church_n be_v of_o that_o precious_a allay_n and_o temper_n that_o they_o excel_v all_o other_o assembly_n in_o the_o world_n other_o of_o the_o world_n though_o never_o so_o great_a and_o eminent_a be_v but_o as_o lead_v or_o tin_n but_o those_o like_a precious_a gold_n second_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o try_a and_o refine_a metal_n that_o be_v so_o be_v christ_n church_n they_o go_v under_o seven_o fold_n refinement_n they_o have_v trial_n from_o god_n and_o man_n refinement_n by_o affliction_n refinement_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n whereby_o their_o dross_n be_v do_v away_o and_o so_o become_v most_o precious_a and_o shine_a gold_n three_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o noble_a dear_a and_o high_a esteem_a metal_n among_o man_n so_o christ_n church_n be_v the_o most_o high_o respect_v by_o god_n of_o all_o creature_n the_o world_n be_v make_v for_o their_o sake_n yea_o they_o be_v the_o right_a heir_n that_o be_v that_o have_v the_o more_o especial_a right_n by_o blessing_n promise_n and_o compact_a unto_o the_o world_n and_o the_o good_a thing_n thereof_o whether_o thing_n present_a or_o thing_n to_o come_v why_o all_o be_v you_o if_o christ_n be_v you_o 1_o cor._n 3.23_o four_o it_o be_v the_o most_o extensive_a and_o ductible_a of_o all_o metal_n so_o christ_n church_n they_o have_v the_o large_a bowel_n of_o true_a charity_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o people_n in_o the_o world_n for_o they_o will_v endeavour_v the_o conversion_n and_o pray_v for_o it_o even_o of_o their_o very_a enemy_n five_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o weighty_a of_o all_o metal_n christ_n church_n be_v of_o the_o great_a weight_n with_o god_n all_o other_o be_v but_o as_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n in_o comparison_n of_o they_o they_o be_v of_o such_o weight_n with_o god_n that_o they_o be_v to_o stand_v in_o the_o gap_n to_o stay_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n when_o he_o go_v out_o to_o execute_v his_o judgement_n if_o two_o or_o three_o righteous_a person_n be_v in_o a_o city_n god_n will_v not_o destroy_v it_o for_o their_o sake_n six_o and_o last_o gold_n be_v most_o fair_a and_o shine_a of_o all_o metal_n so_o christ_n church_n they_o be_v most_o shine_v in_o their_o grace_n they_o be_v not_o guild_a candlestick_n but_o golden_a one_o yea_o beat_a one_o as_o that_o of_o the_o tabernacle_n be_v thou_o be_v all_o fair_a say_v christ_n to_o his_o spouse_n in_o cant._n 1._o my_o love_n behold_v thou_o be_v fair_a behold_v thou_o be_v fair_a like_o a_o lily_n among_o the_o thorn_n so_o be_v my_o love_n among_o the_o daughter_n cant._n 2.2_o in_o the_o next_o place_n consider_v the_o type_n and_o figure_n the_o seven_o candlestick_n that_o be_v the_o emblem_n of_o those_o seven_o church_n and_o how_o they_o suit_v fit_o for_o this_o purpose_n all_o know_v the_o proper_a work_n of_o candlestick_n be_v to_o contain_v and_o hold_v their_o shine_a lamp_n or_o candle_n as_o in_o exod._n 25.37_o and_o thou_o shall_v make_v the_o seven_o lamp_n thereof_o and_o the_o lamp_n thereof_o shall_v thou_o put_v thereon_o to_o give_v light_n towards_o that_o that_o be_v before_o it_o as_o the_o golden_a candlestick_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n be_v to_o have_v seven_o lamp_n or_o light_n to_o give_v light_n to_o all_o that_o be_v before_o it_o so_o these_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n those_o seven_o asian_a church_n have_v their_o seven_o lamp_n or_o light_n therein_o which_o number_n denote_v perfection_n to_o enlighten_v all_o that_o be_v before_o it_o they_o have_v also_o their_o seven_o angel_n seven_o faithful_a messenger_n minister_n or_o ambassador_n of_o christ_n word_n and_o truth_n to_o enlighten_v every_o soul_n that_o come_v with_o a_o teachable_a heart_n before_o they_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o every_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o candlestick_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n exod._n 25.37_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o shine_a lamp_n in_o they_o that_o be_v minister_n and_o teacher_n that_o be_v both_o godly_a and_o faithful_a one_o each_o one_o of_o the_o seven_o asian_a church_n have_v its_o angel_n its_o light_n its_o lamp_n within_o its_o candlestick_n and_o a_o church_n without_o these_o light_n these_o angel_n be_v as_o a_o candlestick_n without_o its_o lamp_n or_o light_n stand_v for_o ornament_n and_o fashion_n sake_n but_o want_v much_o of_o its_o honour_n life_n light_n and_o service_n which_o those_o lamp_n and_o light_n will_v yield_v unto_o it_o for_o christ_n have_v place_v in_o his_o church_n some_o apostle_n some_o evangelist_n some_o prophet_n some_o teacher_n some_o pastor_n some_o elder_n and_o all_o for_o the_o edify_a and_o complete_n of_o his_o body_n the_o church_n church_n thus_o organise_v with_o their_o angel_n and_o minister_n be_v most_o comely_a yea_o that_o high_a expression_n in_o cant._n 6.4_o may_v be_v well_o apply_v to_o such_o thou_o be_v beautiful_a o_o my_o love_n as_o tirza_n comely_a as_o jerusalem_n terrible_a as_o a_o army_n with_o banner_n amid_o those_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n that_o have_v their_o angel_n or_o lamp_n shine_v within_o they_o christ_n make_v his_o glorious_a appearance_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n verse_n 13._o the_o discovery_n of_o christ_n way_n and_o presence_n both_o in_o the_o way_n of_o grace_n and_o judgement_n be_v most_o clear_o to_o be_v learn_v and_o discern_v among_o his_o church_n that_o have_v their_o angel_n minister_n and_o teacher_n shine_v most_o bright_a in_o their_o life_n and_o doctrine_n in_o the_o midst_n among_o they_o and_o like_v to_o this_o be_v the_o advice_n which_o christ_n himself_o have_v give_v to_o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n chap._n 1.7_o 8._o when_o she_o have_v lose_v or_o can_v not_o find_v her_o belove_a tell_v i_o o_o thou_o who_o my_o soul_n love_v where_o thou_o feed_v where_o thou_o make_v thy_o flock_n to_o rest_v at_o noon_n his_o answer_n be_v if_o thou_o know_v not_o thou_o fair_o among_o woman_n go_v thy_o way_n forth_o by_o the_o footstep_n of_o the_o flock_n and_o feed_v thy_o kid_n beside_o the_o shepherd_n tent_n therefore_o o_o thou_o the_o belove_a of_o my_o soul_n cause_n my_o soul_n that_o by_o its_o wander_n have_v long_o miss_v thou_o to_o seek_v for_o thou_o among_o thy_o golden_a candlestick_n in_o thy_o ordinance_n and_o holy_a assembly_n in_o the_o midst_n whereof_o thou_o do_v appear_v that_o my_o soul_n which_o languish_v may_v be_v comfort_v with_o apple_n and_o stay_v with_o flagon_n with_o spiritual_a comfort_n and_o refreshment_n from_o thyself_o who_o dwell_v in_o the_o garden_n and_o feed_v thy_o flock_n beside_o the_o shepherd_n tent_n observe_v 2._o that_o christ_n church_n be_v his_o chief_a treasury_n here_o on_o earth_n of_o light_n and_o truth_n if_o soul_n desire_v to_o come_v into_o the_o true_a light_n and_o truth_n of_o god_n where_o shall_v they_o rather_o repair_v then_o unto_o those_o golden_a candlestick_n who_o proper_a service_n be_v to_o hold_v forth_o light_a unto_o all_o comer_n christ_n be_v find_v walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o verse_n 1â—_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o sun_n run_v its_o course_n there_o must_v needs_o be_v light_n in_o that_o firmament_n and_o much_o glory_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n in_o this_o place_n these_o seven_o famous_a asian_a church_n be_v represent_v by_o the_o figure_n of_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o also_o in_o zach._n 4.3_o etc._n etc._n the_o ancient_a church_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v represent_v by_o a_o golden_a candlestick_n with_o seven_o lamp_n
thereon_o and_o in_o rev._n 4._o the_o two_o gospel_n witness_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o two_o candlestick_n to_o wit_n the_o two_o church_n of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n with_o their_o two_o olive_n branch_n by_o their_o side_n to_o wit_n the_o two_o administration_n of_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o be_v always_o pour_v out_o their_o oil_n for_o light_n into_o the_o ministerial_a lamp_n of_o these_o golden_a candlestick_n here_o must_v needs_o be_v then_o much_o light_n and_o truth_n for_o these_o be_v the_o two_o anoint_a one_o that_o stand_v by_o the_o lord_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n zach._n 4.2.12_o and_o 14_o verse_n chap._n ii_o verse_n 1._o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n who_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n the_o general_a preface_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a book_n be_v finish_v in_o the_o first_o chapter_n wherein_o be_v consider_v who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o these_o divine_a revelation_n and_o that_o be_v christ_n under_o divers_a denomination_n and_o similitude_n some_o appropriable_a only_a to_o the_o divine_a nature_n some_o to_o the_o humane_a clear_o notify_v that_o that_o person_n that_o appear_v unto_o john_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o christ_n god-man_n who_o give_v these_o divine_a revelation_n unto_o john_n some_o immediate_o by_o himself_o some_o by_o his_o minister_a spirit_n the_o angel_n for_o though_o the_o great_a part_n of_o these_o prophecy_n be_v give_v and_o signify_v by_o the_o instrumentality_n of_o angel_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v that_o christ_n do_v it_o for_o it_o be_v a_o know_a rule_n what_o be_v do_v by_o another_o at_o one_o order_n and_o command_v be_v do_v by_o himself_o christ_n he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o those_o vision_n he_o give_v they_o out_o to_o john_n and_z john_n he_o be_v the_o recipient_a instrument_n and_o the_o subordinate_a author_n and_o be_v command_v to_o write_v they_o and_o make_v they_o know_v unto_o the_o church_n and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n in_o this_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n john_n be_v command_v by_o christ_n to_o write_v those_o premonition_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o in_o their_o order_n shall_v be_v handle_v but_o in_o the_o way_n before_o i_o fall_v upon_o the_o particular_n it_o will_v be_v worth_a the_o enquiry_n quest_n why_o john_n be_v command_v particular_o to_o write_v to_o each_o church_n of_o the_o seven_o apart_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v for_o divers_a reason_n first_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o fault_n and_o as_o their_o defection_n be_v divers_a and_o various_a so_o ought_v they_o to_o have_v various_a and_o divers_a reprehension_n so_o likewise_o their_o grace_n and_o endowment_n be_v various_a so_o ought_v they_o to_o have_v divers_a and_o various_a encouragement_n therein_o the_o more_o obdurate_a and_o high-handed_n sinner_n aught_o to_o have_v the_o sharp_a and_o high_a reproof_n and_o censure_n but_o the_o more_o flexible_a and_o tender-hearted_a aught_o to_o be_v deal_v with_o the_o more_o tender_a hand_n of_o love_n and_o compassion_n second_o the_o several_a charge_n be_v draw_v against_o each_o particular_a church_n and_o so_o send_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o own_o peculiar_a angel_n minister_n or_o pastor_n to_o show_v unto_o we_o that_o they_o be_v not_o to_o seek_v for_o any_o extrinsical_a power_n or_o authority_n over_o themselves_o christ_n be_v the_o common_a and_o general_a admonitor_n and_o reprehender_n of_o they_o all_o each_o of_o they_o be_v sole_o and_o single_o under_o his_o reprehensive_a power_n and_o jurisdiction_n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v only_o receive_v command_n and_o reproof_n that_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n so_o the_o angel_n of_o smyrna_n for_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o the_o angel_n of_o pergamus_n for_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n do_v not_o receive_v command_n or_o reproof_n to_o impose_v they_o juridical_o on_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n nor_o smyrna_n on_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n or_o on_o any_o one_o of_o the_o seven_o either_o single_o by_o itself_o or_o joint_o with_o any_o of_o the_o other_o one_o two_o or_o more_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v superintendent_o or_o to_o have_v a_o prelatical_a authority_n over_o the_o rest_n there_o be_v no_o cathedral_n then_o at_o ephesus_n nor_o in_o any_o of_o the_o other_o six_o the_o name_n of_o archiepiscopacy_n and_o hierarchycal_a supremacy_n be_v then_o unknown_a in_o the_o little_a well-ordered_a christian_a world_n or_o rather_o common-weal_n bishop_n than_o do_v look_v no_o far_o with_o a_o eye_n of_o authority_n then_o over_o their_o own_o flock_n neither_o then_o be_v it_o know_v that_o a_o combination_n of_o some_o few_o church_n or_o rather_o officer_n of_o church_n under_o the_o name_n of_o classical_a elder_n provincial_a elder_n or_o national_a elder_n shall_v have_v the_o sole_a power_n and_o jurisdiction_n over_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o vicinity_n ephesus_n then_o as_o unto_o outward_a authority_n be_v independent_a smyrna_n then_o be_v independent_a and_o so_o be_v all_o the_o rest_n the_o church_n can_v then_o and_o also_o now_o can_v act_v consultative_o by_o way_n of_o advice_n by_o their_o elder_n and_o brethren_n either_o joint_n or_o single_o but_o not_o juridical_o by_o way_n of_o authority_n over_o one_o and_o another_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v all_o peer_n respect_v their_o authority_n yet_o in_o their_o grace_n and_o perfection_n among_o themselves_o differ_v from_o one_o and_o another_o in_o glory_n christ_n keep_v the_o sole_a legislative_a power_n in_o his_o own_o hand_n and_o what_o he_o communicate_v thereof_o unto_o his_o church_n it_o be_v not_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v lord_n over_o their_o sister-churche_n faith_n but_o that_o they_o may_v within_o their_o due_a bound_n exercise_v their_o wholesome_a admonition_n and_o censure_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n christ_n will_v not_o suffer_v one_o church_n juridical_o to_o censure_v another_o sister-church_n though_o corrupt_a for_o there_o be_v no_o such_o authority_n give_v they_o christ_n keep_v that_o prerogative_n in_o his_o own_o hand_n he_o reprove_v and_o censure_v the_o whole_a seven_a asian_a church_n himself_o but_o suffer_v not_o one_o or_o more_o to_o do_v it_o over_o the_o rest_n and_o one_o great_a reason_n of_o this_o be_v that_o if_o christ_n have_v grant_v such_o authority_n unto_o one_o church_n over_o other_o that_o that_o church_n which_o become_v most_o potent_a and_o most_o countenance_v by_o the_o secular_a power_n though_o most_o corrupt_v in_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n will_v undertake_v to_o censure_v the_o sound_a and_o most_o orthodox_n church_n of_o all_o as_o the_o arrian_n do_v of_o old_a in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o son_n of_o constantine_n the_o great_a and_o their_o successor_n censure_n chastise_v and_o vex_v even_o the_o sound_a and_o most_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o idolatrous_a apostatise_v church_n of_o rome_n under_o this_o pretence_n of_o have_v authority_n over_o other_o church_n do_v even_o fulminate_v out_o her_o dire_a anathemas_n on_o all_o other_o church_n though_o the_o faithful_a and_o undefiled_a spouse_n of_o christ_n be_v wise_a therefore_o you_o true_a spouse_n of_o christ_n hold_v fast_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v you_o free_a lest_o you_o subjugate_v your_o neck_n and_o precious_a faith_n unto_o the_o idolatry_n of_o the_o spiritual_a harlot_n for_o this_o very_a reason_n christ_n give_v his_o particular_a censure_n and_o reproof_n to_o each_o particular_a church_n according_a to_o their_o peculiar_a fail_n and_o error_n that_o one_o more_o corrupt_a church_n may_v not_o undertake_v to_o censure_v that_o which_o be_v less_o corrupt_a but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v how_o a_o sound_n and_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n shall_v carry_v itself_o towards_o a_o erroneous_a and_o backslidden_a corrupt_a church_n i_o answer_v they_o be_v to_o use_v all_o mean_n for_o their_o recovery_n and_o that_o in_o love_n and_o charity_n first_o they_o be_v to_o advise_v they_o and_o admonish_v they_o of_o the_o danger_n of_o their_o way_n charitable_o not_o juridical_o as_o a_o church_n exercise_n towards_o her_o own_o member_n second_o they_o be_v to_o pray_v for_o their_o heal_n and_o recovery_n out_o of_o their_o spiritual_a malady_n if_o all_o this_o will_v not_o do_v to_o their_o amendment_n they_o be_v to_o withdraw_v communion_n from_o they_o and_o to_o leave_v
they_o to_o their_o master_n who_o after_o he_o have_v proceed_v on_o his_o white_a horse_n with_o offer_n of_o peace_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o they_o continue_v obstinate_a and_o not_o turn_v by_o repentance_n he_o can_v go_v forth_o on_o his_o red_a horse_n of_o wrath_n and_o fury_n and_o remove_v his_o candlestick_n his_o church_n and_o the_o glory_n thereof_o from_o among_o they_o and_o leave_v they_o desolate_a the_o first_o that_o i_o read_v of_o that_o extend_v the_o wing_n of_o his_o authority_n beyond_o his_o own_o just_a limit_n and_o boundary_n be_v victor_n bishop_n of_o rome_n about_o the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o century_n who_o hot_o contend_v with_o ireneus_fw-la and_o other_o of_o the_o african_a church_n to_o have_v a_o supremacy_n over_o they_o and_o to_o impose_v his_o dictate_v on_o they_o and_o that_o very_o pertinacious_o about_o a_o frivolous_a controversy_n the_o observation_n of_o easter_n herein_o that_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n do_v begin_v to_o work_v which_o in_o few_o after_o succeed_a age_n come_v to_o its_o full_a stature_n to_o this_o i_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o all_o ancient_a and_o modern_a history_n both_o civil_a and_o ecclesiastic_a do_v testify_v that_o this_o prelacy_n and_o affect_v of_o supremacy_n over_o other_o church_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o one_o single_a church_n person_n or_o many_o combine_a one_o have_v not_o only_o be_v very_o dangerous_a and_o prejudicial_a to_o the_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n but_o be_v and_o have_v be_v always_o the_o very_a first_o bear_v of_o pride_n and_o luxury_n three_o another_o reason_n be_v that_o christ_n write_v particular_o to_o each_o of_o the_o seven_o church_n be_v to_o show_v that_o christ_n have_v a_o equal_a care_n and_o respect_n to_o all_o his_o church_n while_o they_o continue_v he_o though_o under_o foul_a prevarication_n and_o backslide_n christ_n have_v bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o they_o as_o long_o as_o they_o keep_v faithful_a to_o his_o name_n though_o otherwise_o in_o themselves_o very_o faulty_a and_o he_o be_v find_v to_o be_v walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o providential_o care_v for_o they_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o teach_v they_o by_o his_o word_n if_o so_o be_v he_o may_v bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n last_o these_o message_n be_v direct_v to_o each_o particular_a church_n out_o of_o christ_n especial_a tenderness_n towards_o they_o that_o they_o may_v endeavour_v to_o reform_v their_o enormity_n within_o and_o among_o themselves_o that_o the_o church_n error_n and_o infirmity_n may_v not_o be_v tell_v in_o gath_n nor_o publish_v abroad_o to_o their_o reproach_n among_o their_o enemy_n whilst_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n of_o the_o recovery_n of_o backslider_n christ_n come_v with_o a_o rod_n and_o stroke_n of_o a_o love_a and_o tender_a heart_a father_n to_o cure_v they_o not_o to_o shame_v and_o reproach_v they_o and_o therefore_o christ_n direct_v john_n to_o write_v his_o message_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o each_o particular_a church_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o angel_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o sixteenth_o and_o last_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n but_o the_o question_n be_v whether_o by_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v intend_v the_o chief_a pastor_n or_o bishop_n be_v as_o superintendent_n or_o archbishop_n over_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n or_o whether_o the_o angel_n of_o ephesus_n be_v the_o metropolitan_a over_o the_o other_o six_o sister_n church_n i_o answer_v first_o to_o the_o latter_a there_o be_v no_o colour_n at_o all_o for_o that_o opinion_n for_o the_o reason_n but_o in_o the_o former_a page_n specify_v and_o to_o add_v a_o word_n because_o christ_n command_v each_o angel_n to_o reform_v their_o abuse_n within_o themselves_o he_o send_v not_o the_o angel_n of_o one_o church_n to_o reform_v another_o that_o have_v no_o authority_n over_o it_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v not_o send_v to_o smyrna_n nor_o smyrna_n unto_o ephesus_n nor_o unto_o the_o rest_n but_o a_o extraordinary_a officer_n a_o prophet_n john_n a_o man_n of_o god_n be_v send_v unto_o they_o all_o to_o tell_v they_o of_o their_o fault_n and_o to_o exercise_v that_o authority_n which_o christ_n have_v give_v and_o deposit_v in_o all_o his_o gospel_n church_n and_o to_o each_o of_o they_o in_o particular_a for_o their_o deal_n and_o recovery_n out_o of_o their_o backslide_n indeed_o any_o one_o that_o have_v a_o extraordinary_a spirit_n and_o call_v as_o john_n have_v may_v exercise_v that_o unlimited_a authority_n over_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o i_o know_v not_o any_o in_o these_o day_n or_o since_o the_o apostle_n time_n that_o do_v pretend_v unto_o it_o but_o that_o great_a and_o rampant_a roman_a man_n of_o sin_n who_o be_v the_o great_a and_o only_a pretender_n to_o that_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n and_o yet_o who_o more_o fallible_a than_o himself_o in_o his_o judicial_a sentence_n doctrine_n and_o way_n of_o worship_n indeed_o if_o he_o have_v what_o he_o pretend_v that_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n just_o may_v he_o assume_v authority_n in_o censure_v direct_a and_o govern_v all_o other_o church_n but_o before_o that_o do_v appear_v let_v himself_o and_o other_o that_o assume_v the_o like_a authority_n with_o himself_o hide_v their_o face_n in_o shame_n and_o confusion_n for_o ever_o second_o to_o the_o first_o question_n i_o answer_v that_o those_o i_o confess_v of_o the_o episcopal_a interest_n do_v hold_v that_o the_o superscription_n of_o the_o particular_a church_n direct_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n do_v intend_v and_o signify_v that_o they_o be_v direct_v to_o the_o chief_a pastor_n or_o bishop_n that_o be_v supreme_a overseer_n director_n and_o mediator_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n of_o the_o particular_a church_n within_o ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n as_o if_o this_o have_v be_v write_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o be_v say_v the_o episcopal_v to_o the_o archbishop_n who_o be_v the_o chief_a prelate_n and_o bishop_n over_o all_o other_o the_o prelate_n and_o bishop_n in_o england_n or_o if_o it_o have_v be_v direct_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o london_n salisbury_n exeter_z etc._n etc._n that_o be_v say_v they_o to_o the_o bishop_n of_o london_n salisbury_n or_o exeter_z etc._n etc._n who_o be_v the_o chief_a bishop_n pastor_n and_o overseer_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n within_o his_o own_o jurisdiction_n and_o diocese_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o translate_v according_a to_o the_o latin_a dialect_n bishop_n and_o pastor_n or_o according_a to_o our_o own_o proper_a idiom_n overseer_n and_o feeder_n of_o the_o flock_n be_v synonimas_fw-la and_o be_v but_o as_o several_a denomination_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o office_n which_o do_v arise_v from_o divers_a act_n therein_o for_o the_o faculty_n of_o over-seeing_a guidance_n and_o direction_n he_o be_v call_v a_o bishop_n for_o that_o of_o teach_v instruct_v and_o spiritual_o feed_v his_o flock_n in_o all_o kind_n he_o be_v call_v a_o pastor_n and_o very_o often_o too_o in_o scripture_n for_o his_o rootedness_n and_o soundness_n in_o faith_n life_n and_o doctrine_n he_o be_v call_v a_o elder_a so_o that_o these_o be_v but_o several_a name_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o office_n and_o often_o apply_v in_o scripture_n reciprocal_o to_o one_o and_o the_o same_o person_n sometime_o he_o be_v call_v the_o elder_a of_o the_o church_n sometime_o the_o bishop_n sometime_o the_o pastor_n to_o denote_v unto_o we_o that_o such_o as_o guide_v well_o their_o flock_n and_o feed_v they_o with_o the_o green_a pasture_n of_o wholesome_a doctrine_n be_v most_o worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n among_o the_o saint_n but_o lest_o herewith_o they_o shall_v be_v elevate_v above_o their_o proper_a station_n they_o ought_v to_o eye_n another_o title_n too_o which_o be_v give_v they_o in_o scripture_n they_o be_v minister_n that_o be_v servants_z that_o attend_v on_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n they_o receive_v christ_n message_n and_o commend_v they_o unto_o his_o church_n and_o come_v again_o with_o return_n of_o the_o church_n improvement_n in_o obedience_n and_o thankfulness_n unto_o christ_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n they_o be_v here_o entitle_v by_o the_o name_n of_o angel_n messenger_n ambassadors_z or_o minister_n of_o christ_n and_o how_o these_o humble_a title_n of_o servitor_n and_o messenger_n will_v suit_v and_o agree_v to_o the_o lording_n stomach_n of_o metropolitan_o and_o lord_n bishop_n or_o chief_a pastor_n over_o many_o
church_n it_o pass_v my_o skill_n to_o conjecture_v there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o the_o good_a bishop_n of_o rome_n do_v take_v on_o he_o that_o self-denying_a title_n only_o of_o servus_n servorum_fw-la christi_fw-la a_o servant_n to_o the_o servant_n of_o christ_n but_o o_o now_o quantum_fw-la mutatus_fw-la ab_fw-la illo_fw-la second_o as_o some_o of_o the_o presbyterian_a interest_n will_v have_v this_o inscription_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o be_v mean_v the_o presbytery_n or_o the_o combine_a elder_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o be_v assert_v with_o far_o less_o reason_n than_o the_o former_a for_o it_o be_v inscribe_v unto_o the_o angel_n not_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n neither_o be_v it_o clear_a that_o there_o be_v more_o political_a church_n than_o one_o in_o ephesus_n to_o make_v up_o a_o combination_n of_o divers_a as_o the_o presbytery_n will_v have_v it_o but_o rather_o the_o contrary_n be_v evident_a for_o if_o there_o be_v more_o church_n than_o one_o in_o ephesus_n the_o inscription_n will_v run_v more_o rational_o thus_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n etc._n etc._n but_o here_o they_o will_v object_v as_o i_o have_v find_v that_o one_o of_o their_o learned_a champion_n i_o mean_v m._n rutherford_n former_o have_v do_v that_o angel_n here_o be_v to_o be_v take_v collective_o as_o that_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v pitch_v his_o tent_n about_o the_o righteous_a i_o grant_v angel_n in_o that_o scripture_n ought_v to_o be_v take_v collective_o for_o many_o angel_n but_o that_o it_o shall_v so_o in_o this_o place_n be_v a_o mere_a non_fw-la sequitur_fw-la yea_o rather_o a_o foul_a absurdity_n will_v be_v according_a to_o this_o sense_n of_o they_o father_v on_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o this_o place_n for_o understand_v that_o the_o presbytery_n which_o be_v a_o collective_a and_o combine_a body_n of_o many_o elder_n of_o divers_a church_n which_o they_o will_v have_v here_o to_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o angel_n all_o of_o the_o presbyterian_a judgement_n do_v intend_v thereby_o the_o church_n representative_a as_o go_v tell_v the_o church_n that_o be_v say_v they_o the_o presbytery_n hear_v the_o church_n that_o be_v say_v they_o the_o presbytery_n now_o that_o this_o word_n angel_n will_v stand_v with_o such_o interpretation_n sound_v very_o harsh_o for_o observe_v what_o a_o strange_a and_o uncouth_a sound_n and_o sense_n do_v these_o word_n give_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n that_o be_v to_o the_o church_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n according_a to_o their_o acceptation_n for_o so_o they_o call_v the_o presbytery_n the_o church_n i_o suppose_v few_o will_v find_v but_o very_o little_a reason_n in_o such_o a_o sense_n yet_o i_o grant_v that_o in_o one_o church_n there_o may_v be_v many_o minister_n so_o there_o may_v be_v in_o ephesus_n many_o teacher_n many_o elder_n many_o deacon_n for_o they_o be_v all_o minister_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o also_o they_o may_v have_v one_o that_o have_v the_o pre-eminence_n over_o the_o rest_n as_o the_o overseer_n bishop_n or_o pastor_n of_o the_o flock_n who_o care_n and_o office_n be_v not_o only_o to_o rule_v and_o guide_v the_o flock_n but_o to_o feed_v they_o also_o and_o such_o a_o one_o be_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o eminency_n of_o his_o ministerial_a service_n above_o the_o rest_n and_o so_o may_v right_o be_v call_v the_o angel_n catexochen_n or_o chief_a messenger_n or_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o who_o these_o admonition_n be_v direct_v and_o so_o i_o take_v the_o word_n angel_n in_o this_o place_n to_o signify_v the_o chief_a minister_n to_o wit_n the_o bishop_n or_o pastor_n which_o god_n have_v set_v over_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o who_o the_o charge_n be_v inscribe_v and_o this_o be_v onesimus_n as_o eusebius_n justify_v lib._n 3._o cap._n 35._o out_o of_o ignatius_n his_o epistle_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n observe_v from_o this_o former_a discourse_n note_n that_o the_o pastor_n and_o chief_a minister_n of_o church_n be_v the_o fit_a instrument_n to_o receive_v and_o deliver_v christ_n message_n and_o intendment_n unto_o his_o church_n they_o can_v do_v it_o authoritative_o ex_fw-la officio_fw-la by_o virtue_n of_o their_o call_n unto_o that_o end_n other_o of_o private_a capacity_n can_v do_v it_o only_o charitative_o virtute_fw-la doni_fw-la by_o virtue_n of_o a_o gift_n by_o way_n of_o advice_n and_o counsel_n the_o charge_n here_o be_v inscribe_v to_o the_o angel_n or_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o it_o be_v the_o rather_o inscribe_v and_o direct_v to_o the_o chief_a minister_n for_o sundry_a reason_n first_o that_o it_o may_v have_v the_o great_a reverence_n and_o authority_n with_o they_o to_o who_o it_o be_v direct_v second_o that_o it_o may_v be_v set_v home_o on_o their_o heart_n with_o the_o great_a wisdom_n and_o vigour_n for_o admonition_n or_o reproof_n come_v from_o pastor_n or_o the_o chief_a minister_n of_o the_o church_n be_v as_o nail_n drive_v by_o the_o master_n of_o assembly_n three_o that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v with_o the_o more_o faithfulness_n for_o they_o be_v the_o overseer_n of_o christ_n flock_n four_o that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v with_o the_o more_o tenderness_n and_o compassion_n for_o they_o be_v the_o shepherd_n or_o pastor_n of_o christ_n flock_n to_o feed_v and_o heal_v they_o notto_n wound_n or_o destroy_v they_o five_o and_o last_o that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v with_o the_o great_a experience_n for_o they_o be_v the_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n who_o be_v acquaint_v with_o all_o our_o spiritual_a malady_n and_o know_v their_o several_a cure_n and_o be_v the_o best_a physician_n next_z and_z subordinate_a to_o christ_n for_o our_o soul_n in_o the_o world_n o_o let_v we_o therefore_o give_v they_o due_a honour_n and_o reverence_n which_o be_v most_o commendable_a and_o worthy_a of_o a_o sound_n christian_n to_o all_o christ_n true_a and_o faithful_a minister_n and_o ambassador_n of_o his_o word_n and_o gospel_n who_o christ_n have_v honour_v with_o the_o name_n of_o angel_n bishop_n pastor_n elder_n and_o the_o like_a let_v we_o not_o dishonour_n vilify_v or_o upbraid_v with_o any_o brand_a or_o unworthy_a title_n whatsoever_o observe_v 2._o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v hence_o note_n that_o every_o right_o constitute_v and_o well_o order_v church_n aught_o to_o have_v their_o angel_n minister_n or_o pastor_n over_o they_o every_o golden_a candlestick_n ought_v to_o have_v their_o burn_a lamp_n within_o they_o to_o give_v light_n to_o all_o that_o come_v before_o they_o see_v more_o hereon_o on_o the_o last_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n yet_o in_o this_o i_o desire_v to_o be_v understand_v not_o as_o if_o the_o be_v and_o form_n of_o a_o church_n do_v remain_v whole_o in_o the_o officer_n thereof_o but_o in_o the_o whole_a fraternity_n of_o believer_n the_o essential_a matter_n thereof_o primary_o and_o chief_o so_o that_o i_o here_o intend_v the_o well-being_n of_o a_o church_n not_o the_o be_v thereof_o and_o so_o i_o affirm_v that_o two_o or_o three_o or_o more_o gather_v together_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n to_o close_o with_o he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n though_o without_o ministerial_a officer_n yet_o may_v be_v for_o the_o essential_a matter_n term_v a_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n but_o not_o a_o political_a organical_a one_o which_o have_v the_o high_a and_o great_a glory_n on_o it_o for_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n that_o the_o first_o have_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o exercise_n only_o of_o some_o ordinance_n within_o themselves_o as_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n but_o the_o latter_a have_v the_o more_o full_a and_o ample_a gospel_n patent_n and_o commission_n even_o to_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o unto_o excommunication_n and_o high_a censure_n which_o can_v right_o be_v execute_v out_o of_o political_a church_n which_o be_v mere_o act_n of_o power_n office_n and_o authority_n from_o the_o word_n the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n of_o smyrna_n of_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n some_o hence_o absurd_o reason_n for_o a_o national_a church_n it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v a_o church_n at_o ephesus_n at_o smyrna_n at_o corinth_n at_o rome_n but_o to_o argue_v from_o hence_o that_o all_o in_o rome_n all_o in_o corinth_n all_o in_o ephesus_n must_v be_v the_o church_n be_v a_o very_a fond_a reason_n this_o be_v to_o argue_v that_o nero_n that_o bloody_a heathenish_a tyrant_n with_o his_o whole_a household_n not_o much_o unlike_a unto_o himself_o in_o barbarous_a cruelty_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n because_o paul_n write_v to_o the_o church_n in_o nero_n house_n and_o though_o there_o be_v the_o
church_n of_o christ_n in_o ephesus_n yet_o i_o presume_v on_o good_a ground_n that_o most_o or_o the_o great_a part_n of_o ephesus_n cry_v up_o great_a be_v diana_n of_o the_o ephesian_n and_o though_o there_o be_v church_n of_o christ_n in_o rome_n corinth_n smyrna_n pergamus_n and_o other_o place_n mention_v in_o scripture_n yet_o we_o know_v by_o good_a history_n that_o the_o national_a worship_n and_o religion_n be_v ethnic_a unto_o jupiter_n mars_n sol_n venus_n etc._n etc._n yet_o indeed_o i_o confess_v a_o church_n may_v be_v call_v the_o national_a church_n as_o that_o of_o ephesus_n of_o england_n of_o france_n of_o scotland_n etc._n etc._n in_o respect_n of_o the_o church_n constitute_v and_o make_v up_o of_o member_n or_o person_n of_o that_o nation_n but_o herein_o we_o have_v no_o difference_n the_o controversy_n be_v not_o about_o word_n but_o thing_n real_o differ_v among_o themselves_o as_o when_o they_o affirm_v every_o individual_a and_o singular_a parochial_a church_n of_o england_n to_o be_v particular_a church_n of_o christ_n as_o part_n of_o the_o whole_a and_o the_o whole_a to_o be_v the_o national_a church_n of_o england_n constitute_v of_o its_o singular_a part_n if_o all_o england_n scotland_n france_n be_v the_o church_n what_o room_n be_v leave_v for_o the_o world_n and_o the_o profane_a therein_o the_o church_n may_v be_v denominate_v of_o england_n scotland_n france_n etc._n etc._n but_o not_o all_o england_n scotland_n france_n to_o be_v the_o church_n there_o be_v great_a difference_n in_o those_o expression_n but_o of_o this_o i_o shall_v say_v no_o far_o at_o present_a have_v do_v with_o the_o inscription_n or_o direction_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n the_o next_o thing_n be_v write_v for_o the_o better_a observation_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o follow_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n who_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n that_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o the_o rest_n may_v know_v from_o who_o this_o subsequent_a message_n come_v tell_v they_o that_o it_o be_v from_o he_o that_o hold_v and_o keep_v in_o his_o fatherly_a hand_n of_o protection_n his_o faithful_a minister_n and_o pastor_n which_o be_v as_o star_n in_o the_o firmament_n of_o his_o church_n for_o glory_n peruse_v the_o sixteenth_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n more_o full_o to_o this_o purpose_n and_o who_o walk_v that_o be_v be_v in_o active_a posture_n ready_a to_o observe_v all_o the_o do_n whether_o good_a or_o evil_n of_o all_o his_o church_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v say_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n consult_v more_o at_o large_a with_o v._o 13._o &_o 20._o of_o c._n 1._o from_o christ_n posture_n of_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n or_o the_o seven_o asian_a church_n note_n that_o christ_n be_v very_a intent_n with_o a_o eye_n of_o providential_a observation_n and_o that_o for_o their_o good_a over_o all_o his_o faithful_a church_n this_o be_v not_o the_o time_n of_o his_o sit_v on_o the_o throne_n of_o judge_v the_o world_n but_o of_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o golden_a candlestick_n view_v the_o order_n of_o his_o church_n and_o to_o see_v whether_o they_o be_v proficient_o under_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o canticle_n cap_n 6._o 11._o i_o go_v down_o into_o the_o garden_n of_o nut_n to_o see_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o valley_n and_o to_o see_v whether_o the_o vine_n flourish_v and_o the_o pomegranate_n bud_v christ_n be_v now_o view_v his_o church_n grace_n take_v delight_n therein_o and_o to_o encourage_v they_o to_o perseverance_n that_o the_o crown_n may_v be_v unto_o they_o that_o overcome_v and_o also_o take_v a_o special_a notice_n of_o their_o backslide_n and_o lay_v they_o before_o their_o eye_n in_o the_o deceitfulness_n thereof_o that_o they_o may_v loathe_v they_o and_o return_v unto_o their_o god_n by_o a_o holy_a repentance_n and_o this_o be_v but_o a_o confirmation_n of_o his_o promise_n at_o his_o departure_n leave_v as_o his_o last_o comfort_v legacy_n with_o his_o afflict_a church_n matth._n 28.20_o that_o though_o he_o be_v ascend_v into_o the_o high_a heaven_n yet_o in_o his_o providential_a eye_n over_o they_o and_o by_o his_o spirit_n teach_v direct_a counsel_v support_v and_o comfort_v they_o he_o will_v be_v ever_o with_o they_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n verse_n 2._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o labour_n and_o thy_o patience_n and_o how_o thou_o can_v not_o forbear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o have_v examine_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n verse_n 3._o and_o have_v bear_v and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v and_o have_v not_o faint_v in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i_o have_v see_v thy_o work_n for_o the_o better_a and_o more_o perfect_a take_v knowledge_n of_o they_o our_o knowledge_n be_v mix_v and_o join_v with_o much_o imperfection_n and_o at_o best_a be_v but_o a_o mix_a act_n of_o our_o understanding_n and_o affection_n and_o so_o to_o know_v a_o thing_n by_o a_o human_a capacity_n be_v to_o understand_v it_o and_o the_o nature_n thereof_o in_o the_o high_a notion_n that_o its_o capable_a of_o comprehension_n and_o often_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o darkness_n in_o the_o understanding_n the_o affection_n or_o will_n be_v misplace_v and_o so_o become_v erroneous_a and_o sinful_a for_o a_o mind_n not_o well_o inform_v or_o a_o ignorant_a soul_n can_v very_o hardly_o be_v a_o good_a or_o a_o godly_a one_o for_o without_o this_o light_n the_o judgement_n and_o affection_n will_v be_v often_o lead_v astray_o to_o that_o which_o be_v only_o good_a in_o appearance_n and_o to_o contemn_v that_o which_o in_o itself_o be_v real_o good_a and_o perfect_a but_o here_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o imperfection_n of_o knowledge_n in_o this_o person_n christ_n who_o be_v one_o with_o the_o father_n god_n from_o everlasting_a and_o therefore_o all_o our_o work_n be_v patent_n and_o open_a before_o he_o his_o judgement_n or_o affection_n can_v be_v mislead_v to_o approve_v of_o thing_n and_o work_n that_o shall_v not_o or_o disapprove_v of_o work_n that_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v approve_v he_o be_v god_n and_o can_v be_v deceive_v on_o any_o false_a pretence_n he_o see_v our_o work_n as_o they_o be_v in_o themselves_o and_o in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o they_o with_o all_o their_o circumstance_n we_o see_v and_o know_v thing_n by_o medium_n mixt_o weak_o and_o imperfect_o he_o see_v and_o know_v thing_n simple_o absolute_o and_o most_o perfect_o the_o eye_n itself_o can_v want_v sight_n nor_o the_o sun_n want_v light_n neither_o can_v the_o creator_n of_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o present_a temporal_a world_n or_o his_o church_n this_o spiritual_a world_n be_v ignorant_a of_o any_o of_o he_o or_o their_o handy_a work_n christ_n see_v and_o know_v the_o work_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n full_o what_o be_v approvable_a and_o what_o be_v disapprovable_a in_o they_o hence_o note_v that_o christ_n be_v a_o most_o just_a and_o equal_a censurer_n of_o his_o church_n work_n he_o forbid_v to_o call_v darkness_n light_n or_o light_a darkness_n he_o tell_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n that_o he_o know_v their_o work_n of_o travel_n patience_n and_o sufferance_n for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o so_o place_v his_o favourable_a aspect_n and_o complacency_n thereon_o and_o yet_o what_o be_v evil_a in_o they_o he_o can_v bear_v without_o a_o reproof_n as_o it_o be_v defection_n or_o failure_n in_o its_o first_o love_n and_o ardent_a affection_n which_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n bear_v to_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n at_o their_o first_o conversion_n or_o entertainment_n of_o the_o gospel_n among_o they_o vers_n 4._o christ_n also_o tell_v the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o laodicea_n that_o he_o know_v their_o work_n but_o in_o another_o tone_n not_o of_o approbation_n but_o of_o reproof_n and_o censure_n he_o say_v to_o sardis_n cap._n 3._o 1._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n for_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a and_o in_o verse_n 15._o he_o fall_v upon_o laodicea_n and_o tell_v they_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a christ_n will_v not_o palliate_v or_o lie_v cushion_n under_o great_a one_o elbow_n and_o prophesy_v smooth_a thing_n unto_o they_o nor_o to_o the_o church_n that_o bear_v they_o whilst_o they_o be_v most_o rot_a in_o the_o root_n and_o heart_n have_v not_o god_n a_o controversy_n of_o old_a with_o his_o israel_n for_o this_o
hence_o arise_v to_o christ_n church_n that_o if_o they_o be_v zealous_a of_o god_n glory_n and_o their_o own_o well-being_n that_o they_o suffer_v not_o peaceable_o among_o they_o either_o evil_a doer_n or_o false_a teacher_n both_o equal_o tend_v if_o tolerate_v to_o their_o destruction_n and_o ruin_n observe_v 2._o it_o be_v often_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a trouble_n and_o travel_v for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o deal_v with_o evil_a doer_n and_o false_a teacher_n in_o the_o church_n when_o the_o corrupt_a part_n be_v become_v a_o great_a interest_n in_o the_o church_n how_o difficult_a be_v it_o for_o the_o sound_a part_n to_o meddle_v with_o it_o witness_v the_o present_a state_n of_o our_o church_n in_o england_n and_o elsewhere_o among_o the_o nation_n desire_v reformation_n from_o antichristian_a error_n and_o idolatry_n what_o a_o matter_n of_o trouble_n it_o be_v and_o sometime_o of_o much_o affliction_n and_o suffering_n to_o divers_a precious_a and_o sound_a christian_n when_o they_o go_v about_o to_o reprove_v the_o false_a teacher_n and_o evil_a worker_n the_o great_a hinderer_n at_o present_a of_o a_o thorough_a reformation_n in_o the_o ordinance_n and_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n how_o they_o fall_v upon_o such_o as_o the_o troubler_n of_o israel_n not_o consider_v that_o their_o lust_n be_v the_o principal_a cause_n thereof_o and_o if_o christ_n witness_n speak_v against_o they_o in_o faithfulness_n they_o be_v present_o brand_v as_o troubler_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o faction_n and_o often_o suffer_v for_o it_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v their_o portion_n herein_o of_o travel_n and_o patience_n for_o their_o integrity_n unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n against_o these_o teacher_n and_o wicked_a person_n in_o that_o primitive_a age_n so_o near_o christ_n time_n and_o the_o pour_v forth_o of_o the_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o no_o marvel_n if_o under_o the_o fall_n away_o and_o antichrist_n dominion_n christ_n faithful_a witness_n have_v a_o share_n therein_o also_o but_o to_o proceed_v and_o thou_o have_v try_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n it_o seem_v ephesus_n have_v pseudo-apostle_n or_o false_a apostle_n as_o well_o as_o corinth_n and_o other_o church_n 2_o cor._n 11.13_o who_o pretend_v themselves_o to_o be_v true_a apostle_n of_o christ_n who_o under_o that_o pretence_n come_v with_o deceitful_a and_o soul-destroying_a doctrine_n as_o that_o the_o resurrection_n be_v pass_v already_o that_o the_o moysaicall_a law_n be_v to_o be_v join_v to_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o justification_n that_o the_o community_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o woman_n be_v lawful_a which_o they_o call_v spiritual_a marriage_n which_o the_o sect_n of_o nicolaitan_n hold_v these_o be_v the_o error_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n of_o the_o primitive_a day_n now_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n be_v extraordinary_a officer_n send_v by_o he_o so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d signify_v one_o send_v to_o his_o service_n for_o the_o publish_n the_o messiah_n and_o his_o doctrine_n over_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o so_o be_v universal_a officer_n and_o can_v act_v in_o and_o over_o all_o church_n by_o their_o apostolical_a authority_n but_o for_o other_o to_o argue_v from_o their_o practice_n that_o be_v ordinary_a officer_n and_o of_o a_o ordinary_a spirit_n that_o they_o may_v act_v as_o they_o do_v be_v a_o mere_a non_fw-la sequitur_fw-la now_o the_o false_a apostle_n will_v it_o seem_v needs_o arrogate_v the_o same_o authority_n to_o themselves_o in_o impose_v their_o dictate_v upon_o the_o church_n but_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v so_o much_o spiritual_a wisdom_n as_o to_o try_v and_o examine_v they_o and_o so_o find_v they_o false_a one_o and_o liar_n hence_o note_n that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o commendable_a practice_n and_o duty_n in_o christ_n church_n to_o make_v a_o diligent_a and_o narrow_a inquisition_n into_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n that_o come_v among_o they_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v very_o famous_a for_o this_o very_a thing_n and_o a_o euge_fw-la give_v they_o by_o christ_n for_o this_o action_n and_o indeed_o how_o can_v they_o or_o any_o other_o church_n find_v out_o the_o deceitfulness_n and_o falsity_n of_o those_o that_o be_v false_a apostle_n and_o false_a teacher_n unless_o they_o have_v try_v and_o examine_v their_o doctrine_n paul_n account_v the_o berean_o more_o noble_a than_o other_o for_o this_o very_a thing_n for_o the_o enquiry_n into_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n whether_o thing_n be_v so_o or_o not_o as_o he_o deliver_v unto_o they_o for_o indeed_o it_o argue_v a_o most_o stupid_a kind_n of_o disposition_n to_o receive_v all_o thing_n that_o come_v from_o man_n without_o enquiry_n either_o into_o the_o truth_n thereof_o or_o at_o least_o the_o integrity_n faithfulness_n and_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o relator_n thereof_o for_o as_o some_o truth_n lie_v deep_a and_o every_o common_a person_n or_o member_n can_v fathom_v it_o yet_o every_o one_o though_o never_o so_o weak_a that_o can_v satisfy_v their_o conscience_n by_o their_o own_o sight_n in_o the_o entertainment_n of_o a_o truth_n yet_o can_v in_o part_n acquiesce_v in_o the_o ability_n and_o fidelity_n of_o their_o teacher_n and_o so_o may_v get_v much_o satisfaction_n unto_o themselves_o from_o the_o authority_n of_o their_o guide_n and_o teacher_n therefore_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n incumbent_n on_o all_o first_o for_o the_o more_o spiritual_a and_o quick-sighted_a christian_n to_o try_v all_o thing_n and_o to_o hold_v fast_o what_o be_v good_a next_o for_o the_o weak_a christian_n to_o try_v the_o faithfulness_n and_o integrity_n of_o his_o teacher_n and_o to_o hold_v fast_o what_o he_o commend_v unto_o he_o in_o thing_n disputable_a and_o not_o of_o easy_a discernment_n query_n but_o a_o question_n may_v be_v move_v who_o shall_v try_v judge_n and_o examine_v false_a apostle_n false_a teacher_n and_o their_o corrupt_a doctrine_n i_o answer_v first_o every_o private_a or_o particular_a christian_n may_v do_v it_o judicio_fw-la discretionis_fw-la by_o a_o judgement_n of_o discretion_n and_o of_o private_a discern_v but_o second_o to_o try_v they_o judicio_fw-la authoritativo_fw-la by_o a_o judgement_n of_o authority_n and_o juridical_o it_o must_v be_v do_v by_o that_o whole_a church_n wherein_o they_o be_v rise_v up_o and_o maintain_v for_o in_o they_o lie_v the_o plenary_a judicial_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o judge_v all_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n which_o be_v usual_o call_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n neither_o be_v this_o power_n in_o the_o officer_n or_o eldership_n of_o the_o church_n when_o distinct_a from_o the_o body_n as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o but_o collective_o in_o the_o whole_a church_n officer_n and_o member_n though_o unto_o the_o presbytery_n or_o officer_n i_o shall_v grant_v the_o precedency_n in_o many_o thing_n yet_o the_o body_n collective_a be_v above_o the_o officer_n for_o the_o officer_n be_v ordain_v more_o principal_o for_o the_o body_n but_o not_o the_o body_n for_o the_o officer_n but_o the_o head_n can_v say_v unto_o the_o body_n i_o have_v no_o need_n of_o thou_o nor_o the_o body_n unto_o the_o head_n but_o all_o joint_n together_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a harmony_n and_o a_o organical_a body_n officer_n and_o member_n in_o a_o church_n make_v up_o a_o complete_a christian_n or_o microcosm_n or_o commonwealth_n wherein_o all_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v juridical_o administer_v and_o who_o have_v the_o full_a power_n of_o try_v censure_v and_o judge_v all_o false_a teacher_n and_o doctrine_n that_o shall_v rise_v among_o they_o for_o if_o the_o juridical_a power_n be_v sole_o in_o the_o presbytery_n or_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n than_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n will_v not_o collective_o deserve_v that_o eulogy_n and_o approbation_n for_o their_o zeal_n against_o false_a apostle_n but_o it_o will_v rather_o be_v attribute_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n or_o chief_a officer_n or_o overseer_n of_o the_o church_n only_o but_o here_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v praise_v and_o approve_v for_o their_o non-toleration_n of_o evil_a person_n and_o for_o their_o try_v of_o and_o sift_v out_o the_o false_a apostle_n therefore_o it_o argue_v very_o strong_o that_o the_o power_n of_o censure_n and_o try_v be_v not_o single_o in_o the_o officer_n but_o in_o officer_n and_o member_n joint_o as_o make_v up_o one_o organical_a body_n politic_a which_o be_v christ_n high_a judicature_n on_o earth_n to_o decide_v and_o judge_v of_o all_o doctrine_n rise_v in_o his_o church_n that_o will_v not_o hold_v weight_n according_a to_o the_o shekel_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n a_o far_a instance_n you_o have_v pregnant_a to_o this_o purpose_n in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n in_o verse_n 20._o follow_a where_o the_o reproof_n be_v
lay_v home_o close_o on_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n for_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezabel_n and_o her_o prophetic_a delusion_n now_o if_o it_o be_v alone_o in_o the_o angel_n power_n of_o thyatira_n to_o deal_v with_o these_o balaamitish_a prophet_n the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n will_v especial_o lay_v the_o burden_n and_o reproof_n upon_o they_o to_o wit_n the_o superintendent_o of_o the_o church_n but_o it_o be_v clear_o notify_v unto_o we_o that_o the_o charge_n be_v whole_o lay_v home_o upon_o the_o church_n v._o 17._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n though_o i_o grant_v the_o eldership_n or_o officer_n may_v be_v the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o church_n and_o again_o the_o church_n mouth_n unto_o christ_n and_o so_o they_o be_v his_o ambassador_n agitate_v in_o his_o name_n and_o be_v to_o precede_v in_o many_o duty_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o church_n yet_o the_o charge_n for_o admission_n and_o entertainment_n of_o heterodoxy_n and_o corruption_n in_o the_o church_n be_v not_o sole_o lay_v upon_o they_o but_o upon_o the_o whole_a church_n so_o hence_o this_o be_v clear_o evince_v that_o those_o that_o be_v just_o charge_v for_o the_o admission_n and_o permission_n of_o evil_n have_v a_o indubitable_a power_n and_o authority_n in_o themselves_o either_o not_o to_o admit_v it_o or_o be_v admit_v to_o try_v it_o and_o cut_v it_o off_o by_o such_o mean_n as_o be_v appoint_v for_o such_o end_n but_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v just_o charge_v for_o the_o admission_n and_o permission_n of_o corruption_n among_o they_o therefore_o the_o conclusion_n be_v evident_a but_o this_o shall_v suffice_v herein_o see_v more_o hereon_o v._o 20._o follow_v object_n but_o be_v not_o this_o with_o the_o papist_n to_o raise_v the_o jurisdiction_n of_o the_o church_n so_o high_a as_o to_o set_v it_o above_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o the_o word_n i_o answer_v negative_o for_o a_o sovereign_a prince_n receive_v no_o diminution_n of_o honour_n for_o his_o subordinate_a minister_n of_o state_n to_o receive_v that_o honour_n due_a unto_o their_o place_n neither_o so_o do_v the_o word_n lose_v at_o all_o of_o its_o glory_n for_o that_o the_o church_n have_v its_o due_a honour_n put_v upon_o it_o also_o indeed_o the_o word_n be_v suprema_fw-la lex_fw-la the_o standard_n the_o rule_n and_o light_n by_o which_o all_o doctrine_n be_v try_v and_o discern_v and_o be_v of_o divine_a revelation_n and_o in_o its_o self_n infallible_a must_v needs_o be_v above_o the_o authority_n and_o of_o a_o sure_a testimony_n then_o that_o which_o be_v mix_v with_o much_o fallibility_n and_o imperfection_n as_o the_o choice_a and_o pure_a church_n ever_o be_v as_o those_o of_o corinth_n ephesus_n galatia_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o a_o law_n of_o mere_a humane_a institution_n be_v repute_v of_o so_o high_a authority_n that_o it_o bind_v the_o legislator_n themselves_o and_o in_o that_o respect_n be_v above_o those_o that_o make_v it_o but_o much_o more_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o be_v his_o law_n and_o his_o reveal_v mind_n come_v from_o so_o infinite_a and_o unerrable_a a_o legislator_n as_o god_n be_v so_o far_o transcend_v the_o authority_n of_o any_o judicature_n on_o earth_n as_o the_o wisdom_n of_o a_o infinite_a do_v a_o finite_a creature_n therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v bind_v to_o all_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v know_v have_v such_o a_o perfection_n in_o it_o that_o whosoever_o be_v conversant_a therein_o it_o be_v able_a by_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o perfect_a in_o every_o good_a thing_n and_o work_n the_o word_n unto_o the_o church_n be_v as_o the_o sun_n unto_o the_o dial_n if_o the_o dial_n be_v set_v right_o to_o the_o sun_n it_o will_v give_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o the_o time_n of_o the_o day_n so_o if_o the_o church_n give_v a_o judgement_n according_a to_o the_o square_a and_o scantling_n of_o the_o word_n it_o will_v be_v a_o righteous_a judgement_n but_o otherwise_o to_o make_v the_o word_n subservient_fw-fr and_o to_o conclude_v unto_o the_o church_n dictate_v be_v a_o undertake_v to_o rectify_v the_o course_n of_o the_o sun_n unto_o the_o obliquity_n of_o the_o dial_n which_o will_v prove_v aethiopiam_fw-la lware_v and_o most_o irrational_a so_o that_o church_n that_o keep_v herself_o within_o her_o own_o sphere_n and_o try_v and_o examine_v spirit_n and_o doctrine_n that_o be_v heterodox_n and_o unsound_a by_o the_o sound_n of_o the_o word_n which_o be_v a_o most_o sure_a light_n and_o infallible_a cynosure_n doubtless_o that_o church_n will_v be_v lead_v and_o preserve_v in_o all_o truth_n but_o if_o any_o one_o so_o far_o exalt_v its_o self_n as_o to_o conclude_v for_o truth_n its_o own_o dictate_v dissentaneous_a unto_o the_o word_n but_o suit_v with_o self-interest_n and_o design_n the_o first_o may_v be_v a_o golden_a candlestick_n both_o precious_a and_o famous_a for_o its_o faith_n integrity_n and_o justice_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n but_o the_o latter_a will_n soon_o degenerate_a into_o a_o harlot-church_n if_o not_o soon_o become_v apostate_n to_o the_o faith_n the_o first_o be_v christ_n high_a judicature_n on_o earth_n wherein_o he_o take_v delight_n to_o walk_v in_o as_o his_o garden_n enclose_v to_o view_v their_o pleasant_a fruit_n but_o the_o other_o christ_n will_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o rot_a tree_n that_o cumber_v the_o ground_n and_o serve_v only_o to_o be_v hew_v down_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n observe_v 4._o another_o observation_n be_v that_o in_o the_o pure_a time_n and_o church_n there_o be_v find_v great_a corruption_n both_o in_o manner_n and_o doctrine_n in_o this_o famous_a church_n of_o ephesus_n corinth_n etc._n etc._n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n be_v find_v both_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d evil_a one_o and_o false_a one_o such_o as_o pretend_v they_o be_v apostle_n but_o be_v find_v liar_n and_o deceiver_n among_o the_o twelve_o there_o be_v a_o judas_n in_o that_o church_n in_o the_o ark_n when_o the_o world_n and_o church_n have_v one_o and_o the_o same_o extent_n and_o boundary_n in_o eight_o person_n only_o yet_o one_o be_v a_o cham_n and_o there_o be_v also_o a_o cain_n when_o it_o be_v of_o a_o lesser_a number_n and_o but_o four_o in_o the_o world_n but_o here_o obiter_fw-la and_o by_o the_o way_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o distinguish_v between_o god_n decretive_a will_n and_o his_o preceptive_a will._n his_o voluntas_fw-la bene_fw-la placiti_fw-la and_o voluntas_fw-la signi_fw-la as_o the_o school_n call_v it_o or_o his_o will_n of_o purpose_n and_o his_o will_n of_o good_a pleasure_n not_o that_o there_o be_v two_o will_n in_o god_n but_o several_a and_o divers_a act_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o will_n as_o by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o love_v by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o hate_v by_o the_o same_o will_v 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we_o tolerate_v they_o not_o for_o if_o they_o be_v to_o be_v admit_v and_o tolerate_v quiet_o within_o the_o church_n then_o doubtless_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v not_o receive_v that_o encomium_fw-la and_o well_o do_v for_o their_o zeal_n against_o they_o nor_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o worthy_a reproof_n for_o the_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jezabel_n among_o they_o therefore_o the_o one_o church_n do_v her_o duty_n and_o obey_v christ_n preceptive_a will_n and_o have_v the_o praise_n and_o glory_n for_o it_o the_o other_o neglect_v it_o and_o therefore_o have_v a_o just_a check_n lay_v upon_o she_o so_o that_o this_o question_n be_v to_o be_v state_v de_fw-la jure_fw-la non_fw-la de_fw-la facto_fw-la i_o confess_v de_fw-fr facto_fw-la there_o may_v be_v evil_a person_n false_a teacher_n in_o the_o best_a church_n and_o pure_a time_n but_o de_fw-la
they_o in_o this_o particular_a witness_v the_o jesuitish_a sect_n with_o their_o many_o pretend_a miracle_n voluminous_a interpretation_n of_o scripture_n counsel_n father_n tradition_n super-numerary_a sacrament_n etc._n etc._n i_o confess_v it_o be_v the_o common_a trade_n with_o all_o new_a and_o false_a doctrine-monger_n to_o amuse_v the_o vulgar_a with_o their_o intricate_a scriptural_a gloss_n that_o so_o thereby_o they_o may_v the_o better_o swallow_v down_o the_o hook_n or_o poison_v undiscovered_a within_o the_o artificial_o compose_a bait_n and_o pill_n and_o as_o the_o fish_n sepia_n darken_v the_o water_n with_o its_o inky_a humour_n to_o avoid_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o fisher_n so_o do_v these_o serpentine_a fry_n so_o cloud_v the_o truth_n with_o their_o polemical_a discourse_n that_o unaware_o they_o have_v bring_v many_o heretical_a syncretisme_n upon_o the_o church_n of_o god_n under_o the_o pretence_n of_o scriptural_a truth_n and_o reason_n but_o notwithstanding_o their_o high_a pretence_n to_o scripture_n and_o reason_n both_o be_v undermine_v by_o they_o and_o have_v endeavour_v the_o overthrow_n thereof_o by_o their_o strange_a conclusion_n which_o be_v both_o false_a and_o opposite_a to_o the_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v in_o jesus_n now_o understand_v that_o i_o hold_v not_o that_o every_o difference_n of_o opinion_n about_o the_o external_o or_o accidental_n of_o religion_n be_v sufficient_a to_o denominate_v the_o holder_n thereof_o a_o heretic_n or_o false_a teacher_n for_o than_o which_o of_o the_o father_n will_v go_v clear_a nor_o but_o few_o if_o any_o of_o their_o successor_n but_o that_o true_o and_o real_o denominate_v a_o heretic_n or_o false_a teacher_n be_v the_o hold_v and_o maintain_v such_o error_n as_o direct_o strike_v at_o and_o will_v subvert_v the_o foundation_n now_o this_o be_v the_o foundation_n article_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o god_n and_o in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o he_o have_v send_v for_o this_o be_v life_n eternal_a john_n 17_o 3._o and_o that_o doctrine_n that_o strike_v at_o this_o either_o direct_o or_o consequential_o be_v heresy_n and_o false_a doctrine_n and_o therefore_o just_o be_v they_o call_v false_a apostle_n that_o go_v about_o to_o add_v circumcision_n unto_o the_o gospel_n and_o say_v they_o can_v not_o be_v save_v without_o it_o act_n 15._o this_o be_v to_o nullify_v christ_n sacrifice_n and_o satisfaction_n and_o to_o make_v christ_n of_o none_o effect_n as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n tell_v the_o galathian_o that_o hereby_o they_o harken_v to_o a_o new_a gospel_n therefore_o it_o be_v of_o plain_a and_o easy_a discernment_n for_o a_o competent_a spiritualised_a christian_a to_o make_v discovery_n of_o a_o false_a apostle_n prophet_n false_a teacher_n or_o heretic_n by_o the_o doctrine_n he_o bring_v for_o first_o if_o it_o strike_v at_o the_o root_n or_o tend_v to_o the_o subversion_n of_o the_o true_a fear_n of_o god_n and_o godliness_n it_o be_v of_o satan_n and_o from_o hell_n next_o if_o it_o strike_v direct_o or_o consequential_o at_o the_o subversion_n of_o christ_n in_o any_o of_o his_o office_n be_v sure_a that_o doctrine_n be_v not_o of_o god_n for_o there_o be_v no_o name_n way_n or_o practice_v under_o heaven_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v save_v but_o in_o the_o name_n and_o faith_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o alone_a way_n unto_o the_o father_n and_o none_o come_v unto_o he_o but_o in_o and_o by_o the_o son_n all_o other_o way_n be_v not_o only_o break_v reed_n but_o dangerous_a this_o only_a in_o the_o son_n be_v eternal_a life_n 2._o in_o the_o next_o place_n false_a apostle_n and_o teacher_n may_v be_v discern_v from_o their_o false_a call_n or_o mission_n and_o this_o will_v the_o better_o be_v evince_v by_o first_o consider_v its_o contrary_a the_o right_a call_n of_o true_a and_o faithful_a teacher_n and_o apostle_n of_o christ_n and_o their_o call_n be_v either_o first_o from_o god_n or_o second_o from_o the_o church_n god_n call_n be_v by_o give_v ability_n gift_n and_o affection_n suitable_a to_o the_o work_n and_o office_n that_o he_o ordain_v he_o for_o he_o give_v some_o apostle_n some_o prophet_n some_o evangelist_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o when_o god_n send_v moses_n he_o furnish_v he_o for_o the_o great_a work_n he_o appoint_v he_o to_o moses_n plead_v his_o unaptness_n and_o slowness_n of_o speech_n but_o god_n say_v go_v and_o i_o will_v be_v with_o thy_o mouth_n and_o teach_v thou_o etc._n etc._n exod._n 4.12_o and_o so_o unto_o all_o the_o prophet_n of_o old_a god_n come_v with_o his_o spirit_n upon_o they_o and_o fill_v they_o with_o a_o sufficiency_n thereof_o before_o they_o be_v send_v upon_o their_o errand_n god_n call_v apostle_n of_o fisher_n and_o make_v they_o fisher_n of_o man_n and_o so_o spirit_n they_o and_o enable_v they_o that_o they_o fear_v not_o the_o face_n of_o man_n nor_o the_o learned_a of_o the_o world_n for_o he_o tell_v they_o go_v preach_v and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v by_o a_o peculiar_a assistance_n by_o his_o grace_n strength_n comfort_n direction_n spirit_n those_o that_o christ_n call_v and_o send_v he_o give_v they_o a_o full_a supply_n of_o all_o gift_n and_o grace_n necessary_a to_o discharge_v their_o respective_a service_n second_o god_n call_n give_v affection_n and_o heart_n unto_o the_o work_n he_o move_v strong_o by_o a_o secret_a impulse_n of_o spirit_n on_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o send_v on_o his_o employment_n it_o will_v not_o consult_v with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o will_v on_o as_o paul_n do_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n without_o hesitate_v or_o secure_v his_o carnal_a interest_n yet_o second_o this_o call_n must_v proceed_v orderly_o unto_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o since_o extraordinary_a gift_n and_o call_n be_v cease_v the_o mediate_a call_n must_v concur_v to_o set_v the_o seal_n and_o authority_n upon_o the_o first_o god_n give_v to_o a_o man_n the_o call_v of_o ability_n part_n and_o affection_n to_o a_o office_n do_v not_o real_o and_o ipso_fw-la facto_fw-la invest_v he_o in_o that_o office_n it_o maybe_o say_v that_o he_o have_v jus_o ad_fw-la rem_fw-la but_o not_o jus_o in_o re_fw-mi he_o have_v a_o potential_a right_n thereunto_o but_o not_o a_o right_a of_o possession_n for_o christ_n have_v delegated_a that_o power_n unto_o his_o church_n of_o set_v their_o public_a signature_n upon_o all_o officer_n for_o his_o service_n for_o who_o god_n qualify_v with_o a_o call_n of_o ability_n he_o be_v only_o judge_v and_o deem_v fit_a for_o the_o ministry_n of_o christ_n but_o not_o real_o a_o minister_n or_o officer_n of_o christ_n before_o he_o be_v ordain_v thereunto_o by_o the_o church_n by_o the_o first_o call_v only_o he_o may_v perform_v many_o good_a duty_n and_o service_n unto_o the_o church_n as_o a_o able_a and_o faithful_a disciple_n or_o member_n but_o by_o the_o conjunction_n of_o the_o other_o he_o can_v do_v it_o ex_fw-la officio_fw-la and_o authoritative_o therefore_o such_o as_o pretend_v their_o call_n to_o public_a office_n as_o apostle_n teacher_n pastor_n etc._n etc._n only_o as_o from_o god_n and_o contemn_v the_o other_o from_o the_o church_n sure_o i_o be_o of_o judgement_n as_o unto_o their_o mission_n they_o be_v false_a apostle_n and_o be_v neither_o call_v of_o god_n nor_o man_n for_o if_o their_o call_n of_o ability_n be_v from_o god_n as_o they_o boast_v of_o than_o it_o will_v manifest_v itself_o to_o be_v of_o god_n by_o a_o submit_v to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o order_n of_o the_o dispensation_n of_o his_o ordinance_n in_o his_o word_n therefore_o both_o conjunct_a together_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a officer_n and_o shine_a star_n within_o the_o church_n in_o the_o next_o place_n those_o that_o boast_v of_o their_o calling_n from_o the_o church_n and_o want_v the_o first_o call_v of_o god_n of_o ability_n they_o be_v good_a for_o nothing_o but_o as_o unsavoury_a salt_n to_o be_v cast_v unto_o the_o dung_n useless_a to_o any_o service_n they_o will_v not_o serve_v so_o much_o as_o to_o make_v a_o pin_n in_o the_o house_n of_o god_n such_o be_v false_a apostle_n to_o the_o purpose_n fit_a to_o be_v spew_v out_o of_o all_o christian_a church_n in_o the_o world_n wherefore_o all_o faithful_a christian_n assembly_n shall_v have_v a_o special_a care_n not_o to_o admit_v of_o such_o who_o can_v only_o manifest_v their_o call_n from_o man_n and_o not_o from_o god_n in_o competent_a gift_n and_o part_n fit_a for_o so_o high_a a_o call_n they_o can_v work_v at_o all_o to_o edification_n in_o the_o lord_n house_n for_o they_o want_v supply_n to_o that_o end_n we_o know_v a_o artificer_n can_v do_v little_a work_n without_o his_o tool_n or_o instrument_n but_o unto_o those_o who_o shall_v be_v employ_v about_o spiritual_a building_n if_o god_n have_v
by_o interpose_v a_o intervening_a necessity_n and_o clear_a obstacle_n thereunto_o and_o therein_o god_n love_v obedience_n better_o than_o sacrifice_n second_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o first_o ministerial_a reformer_n never_o maintain_v a_o personal_a succession_n of_o ministry_n and_o officer_n from_o the_o apostle_n lineal_o through_o the_o loin_n of_o antichrist_n but_o only_o a_o succession_n of_o doctrine_n which_o in_o all_o age_n be_v by_o the_o invisible_a church_n maintain_v and_o assert_v sometime_o with_o more_o perspicuity_n and_o visibility_n than_o other_o for_o if_o we_o shall_v grant_v a_o personal_a succession_n of_o officer_n and_o ministry_n from_o the_o apostle_n day_n we_o must_v needs_o also_o grant_v a_o perpetual_a and_o necessary_a visibility_n of_o a_o church_n and_o consequential_o a_o truth_n of_o ministry_n and_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o antichristian_a state_n and_o how_o a_o true_a christian_n ministry_n and_o ordinance_n can_v be_v find_v in_o that_o antichristian_a state_n in_o that_o man_n of_o sin_n that_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n that_o whore_n of_o babylon_n as_o i_o former_o say_v i_o know_v not_o or_o how_o the_o same_o state_n can_v be_v both_o mere_o antichristian_a and_o christian_n a_o whore_n of_o babylon_n and_o a_o spouse_n of_o jesus_n christ_n a_o ministry_n of_o god_n and_o a_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n a_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o oâ—_n idol_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a to_o consider_v in_o the_o next_o place_n in_o the_o affirmative_a i_o hold_v that_o a_o true_a and_o justifiable_a call_n respect_v the_o essence_n thereof_o may_v be_v receive_v in_o any_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n hold_v the_o foundation_n aright_o of_o godliness_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n towards_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n though_o otherwise_o differ_v among_o themselves_o in_o many_o circumstantial_a point_n yet_o de_fw-fr bene_fw-la esse_fw-la it_o may_v more_o comfortable_o be_v receive_v from_o one_o church_n then_o another_o as_o former_o be_v evince_v the_o more_o pure_a spiritual_a and_o sound_v the_o church_n be_v the_o more_o sound_a spiritual_a and_o edify_v their_o ministerial_a function_n be_v the_o more_o loose_a unsound_a and_o corrupt_v the_o church_n be_v the_o more_o corrupt_a and_o loose_v their_o ministerial_a call_n will_v be_v therefore_o the_o godly_a church_n and_o sound_a in_o the_o faith_n be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n for_o mission_n ministerial_a call_v and_o office_n to_o be_v seek_v and_o repair_v unto_o but_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v ask_v i_o what_o i_o think_v then_o of_o the_o present_a ministry_n of_o england_n as_o now_o constitute_v who_o as_o presbyter_n ordain_v one_o another_o to_o their_o ministerial_a office_n who_o be_v first_o ordain_v themselves_o by_o the_o late_a bishop_n and_o so_o hold_v their_o ordination_n from_o they_o as_o from_o true_a presbyter_n i_o answer_v and_o i_o think_v it_o not_o meet_v but_o contrary_a to_o the_o simplicity_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o cloud_v my_o judgement_n in_o any_o thing_n if_o the_o english_a presbytery_n as_o the_o helvetian_a and_o genevan_n have_v do_v to_o their_o perpetual_a glory_n have_v declare_v to_o the_o world_n that_o the_o romish_a church_n be_v the_o antichristian_a whore_n and_o so_o public_o renounce_v all_o ministerial_a call_v as_o derive_v from_o she_o than_o i_o grant_v such_o ministry_n and_o presbyter_n to_o be_v true_a minister_n and_o presbyter_n as_o unto_o the_o essence_n and_o be_v thereof_o though_o collate_v of_o office_n mere_o as_o officer_n or_o presbyter_n without_o the_o just_a assent_n and_o assistance_n of_o their_o church_n be_v not_o so_o justifiable_a as_o hereafter_o i_o may_v have_v occasion_n to_o evince_v but_o if_o they_o maintain_v their_o call_n from_o the_o bishop_n to_o be_v good_a as_o by_o succession_n of_o presbyter_n they_o have_v utter_o nullify_v and_o undo_v their_o case_n and_o their_o call_n too_o in_o my_o judgement_n and_o my_o reason_n be_v for_o what_o be_v not_o good_a and_o justifiable_a in_o the_o fountain_n and_o first_o origin_n can_v be_v make_v justifiable_a by_o succession_n in_o the_o stream_n and_o branch_n a_o pollute_a fountain_n can_v send_v forth_o sweet_a wholesome_a stream_n causa_fw-la causae_fw-la causa_fw-la causati_fw-la if_o that_o episcopacy_n be_v antichristian_a as_o most_o of_o they_o grant_v though_o both_o name_n and_o office_n be_v warrantable_a in_o a_o gospel_n regulate_v sense_n from_o who_o they_o have_v their_o first_o mission_n and_o call_v how_o then_o come_v their_o call_n more_o warrantable_a than_o that_o of_o their_o first_o author_n and_o founder_n if_o bishop_n in_o their_o ministry_n be_v orthodox_n and_o sound_n how_o come_v they_o to_o supplant_v they_o and_o pull_v they_o down_o christ_n ministry_n be_v not_o for_o the_o work_n of_o desolate_v and_o dethrone_v brethren_n in_o the_o same_o holy_a function_n but_o rather_o for_o consolidate_v and_o confirm_v therefore_o sure_o there_o be_v somewhat_o amiss_o all_o be_v not_o right_a or_o else_o they_o may_v have_v stand_v to_o this_o day_n witness_v the_o national_a covenant_n against_o antichristian_a prelacy_n etc._n etc._n but_o the_o truth_n be_v episcopacy_n as_o it_o be_v then_o constitute_v in_o england_n be_v of_o the_o off_o spring_n and_o brood_n of_o babylon_n they_o always_o hold_v their_o call_n good_a as_o ministerial_a bishop_n have_v their_o personal_a call_v from_o such_o successive_o as_o first_o receive_v it_o from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o so_o can_v never_o be_v make_v good_a or_o justifiable_a in_o the_o succession_n neither_o will_v it_o suffice_v as_o some_o say_v to_o salve_v it_o that_o christ_n have_v always_o a_o church_n of_o invisible_a saint_n under_o antichrist_n because_o they_o must_v prove_v themselves_o then_o to_o succeed_v that_o very_a church_n or_o those_o very_a invisible_a saint_n and_o not_o only_o that_o but_o that_o those_o very_a saint_n be_v ministerial_a officer_n or_o presbyter_n or_o else_o all_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a according_a to_o their_o own_o concession_n for_o man_n may_v be_v saint_n but_o not_o ministerial_o saint_n send_v or_o presbyter_n who_o according_a to_o they_o have_v the_o alone_a power_n of_o ordination_n and_o therefore_o in_o want_n of_o such_o true_a ministerial_a presbyter_n in_o the_o succession_n of_o the_o ministry_n must_v either_o unavoidable_o acknowledge_v according_a to_o their_o own_o principle_n their_o ministerial_a office_n void_a and_o null_a or_o otherwise_o plain_o concede_fw-la that_o they_o have_v it_o derivative_o from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o what_o a_o sorry_a call_n that_o be_v if_o at_o least_o so_o to_o be_v call_v i_o have_v former_o evince_v and_o it_o be_v a_o maxim_n in_o law_n that_o quod_fw-la initio_fw-la vitiosum_fw-la est_fw-la non_fw-fr poor_a tractu_fw-la temporis_fw-la convalescere_fw-la see_v more_o hereon_o du_n plessis_n treat_n of_o the_o church_n p._n 3624._o and_o bishop_n jewel_n defen_n apolog._n part_n 2._o page_n 131._o who_o be_v witness_n without_o exception_n manifest_v the_o vanity_n of_o such_o a_o claim_n but_o i_o proceed_v to_o the_o next_o verse_n verse_n 3._o and_o have_v bear_v and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v and_o have_v not_o faint_v observe_v from_o this_o observe_v that_o false_a teacher_n and_o false_a apostle_n be_v great_a persecuter_n of_o the_o faithful_a one_o of_o christ_n the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v suffer_v much_o from_o such_o false_a teacher_n for_o christ_n sake_n and_o his_o truth_n the_o false_a prophet_n of_o old_a be_v always_o against_o the_o true_a one_o and_o cause_v they_o often_o to_o be_v smite_v and_o afflict_v as_o micaiah_n be_v jeer_v by_o zedekiah_n which_o way_n go_v the_o spirit_n from_o i_o to_o thou_o 1_o king_n 22._o 2_o 4._o and_o that_o not_o all_o but_o be_v smite_v disgraceful_o on_o the_o check_n also_o shemaiah_n stir_v up_o the_o authority_n against_o jeremiah_n the_o lord_n prophet_n and_o will_v have_v cast_v he_o in_o the_o prison_n jer._n 29.24_o yea_o say_v ezekiel_n 22.25_o there_o be_v a_o conspiracy_n of_o her_o prophet_n in_o the_o midst_n thereof_o not_o only_o like_o fox_n but_o even_o like_a lion_n raven_v the_o prey_n these_o false_a teacher_n have_v be_v always_o very_o pernicious_a to_o god_n true_a church_n what_o great_a persecuter_n arrius_n and_o his_o follower_n be_v to_o athanasius_n and_o the_o orthodox_n they_o be_v the_o priest_n and_o false_a prophet_n of_o old_a that_o shed_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n though_o not_o by_o their_o own_o hand_n yet_o by_o incense_a the_o authority_n to_o do_v it_o how_o willing_o will_v pilate_n release_v christ_n if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o the_o outcry_n of_o the_o priest_n and_o their_o follower_n false_a prophet_n still_o exclaim_v and_o fastigate_v the_o magistrate_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v do_v god_n good_a service_n in_o
inferior_a measure_n the_o same_o oil_n that_o be_v pour_v on_o aaron_n head_n run_v down_o to_o the_o skirt_n of_o his_o garment_n so_o the_o same_o unction_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v pour_v on_o christ_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n pour_v on_o all_o his_o inferior_a member_n and_o therefore_o most_o dear_a and_o belove_v to_o he_o omne_fw-la simile_n gaudet_fw-la simili_fw-la three_o by_o reason_n of_o union_n christ_n and_o his_o member_n beiâ—_n one_o by_o a_o mystical_a and_o spiritual_a union_n they_o must_v needs_o be_v most_o dear_a and_o precious_a to_o he_o four_o and_o last_o the_o great_a reason_n that_o christ_n saint_n and_o church_n be_v most_o dear_a unto_o he_o be_v in_o that_o he_o have_v lay_v down_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a life_n for_o they_o for_o great_a love_n than_o this_o be_v never_o show_v in_o that_o he_o die_v for_o we_o even_o while_o we_o be_v fighter_n against_o god_n and_o enemy_n by_o evil_a work_n observe_v 2._o another_o note_n be_v that_o though_o the_o world_n look_v upon_o the_o faithful_a distress_a church_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o break_a poor_a and_o forsake_a people_n both_o in_o outward_a estate_n and_o intellectual_n also_o yet_o god_n set_v another_o rate_n upon_o they_o and_o account_v they_o rich_a wise_a mighty_a comely_a beautiful_a and_o as_o the_o most_o accomplish_a people_n in_o the_o world_n be_v not_o this_o a_o strange_a paradox_n to_o the_o infatuate_v worldling_n but_o it_o be_v not_o so_o strange_a as_o true_a christ_n here_o call_v his_o poor_a afflict_a smyrna_n rich_a for_o she_o be_v rich_a indeed_o with_o spiritual_a grace_n that_o their_o persecute_v adversary_n be_v ignorant_a of_o she_o be_v rich_a in_o immortible_a treasure_n lay_v up_o for_o her_o service_n in_o heaven_n above_o where_o moth_n can_v not_o corrupt_v or_o thiâ—â—â—reak_v through_o and_o steal_v which_o her_o blaspheme_a enemy_n never_o dream_v of_o what_o wise_a worldling_n do_v think_v a_o poor_a afflict_a christian_n wise_n he_o look_v upon_o he_o so_o far_o beneath_o himself_o that_o from_o his_o machiavilian_a plot_n and_o counsel_n he_o tell_v the_o wise_a and_o prudent_a christian_n soul_n procul_fw-la hinc_fw-la proculate_v prophani_fw-la yet_o god_n tell_v they_o plain_o that_o the_o wise_a of_o the_o world_n be_v take_v in_o their_o own_o snare_n whilst_o true_a wisdom_n be_v justify_v of_o her_o child_n and_o god_n have_v choose_v the_o foolish_a thing_n of_o the_o world_n to_o confound_v the_o wise_a and_o god_n have_v choose_v the_o weak_a thing_n of_o the_o world_n to_o confound_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v mighty_a etc._n etc._n 1_o cor._n 1.27_o 28_o 29._o the_o wise_a of_o the_o world_n think_v themselves_o a_o wise_a politic_a and_o high_o contrive_v statist_n when_o they_o have_v bring_v the_o saint_n of_o god_n and_o the_o whole_a world_n under_o their_o foot_n and_o subjection_n but_o the_o saint_n of_o god_n know_v no_o such_o wisdom_n but_o that_o wisdom_n which_o be_v of_o god_n the_o eternal_a word_n and_o christ_n who_o of_o god_n be_v make_v to_o we_o wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n and_o redemption_n that_o no_o flesh_n shall_v glory_v in_o his_o presence_n the_o great_a potentate_n of_o the_o world_n think_v with_o their_o alexandrian_a army_n as_o a_o torrent_n to_o carry_v all_o before_o they_o alas_o they_o be_v deceive_v there_o be_v other_o more_o mighty_a than_o they_o the_o poor_a afflict_a church_n of_o christ_n can_v do_v more_o with_o their_o prayer_n and_o use_v their_o interest_n with_o god_n than_o all_o the_o army_n in_o the_o world_n they_o can_v pray_v for_o legion_n of_o angel_n and_o they_o be_v ready_a at_o their_o command_n witness_v the_o host_n of_o sennacherib_n destroy_v by_o a_o angel_n at_o the_o prayer_n of_o hezekiah_n and_o isaiah_n the_o son_n of_o amos_n 2_o chron._n 32.20_o how_o many_o heathen_a army_n do_v we_o read_v of_o in_o history_n be_v defeat_v by_o the_o faithful_a prayer_n of_o the_o godly_a or_o at_o least_o their_o force_n divert_v another_o way_n a_o poor_a despise_a chris_n david_n with_o a_o sling_n and_o pebble_n can_v do_v more_o by_o the_o prayer_n of_o faith_n than_o goliath_n with_o his_o spear_n oh_o how_o happy_a and_o fortunate_a be_v the_o captain_n and_o army_n of_o this_o our_o nation_n while_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o the_o land_n continue_v fervent_a for_o they_o the_o bow_n and_o sword_n of_o the_o mighty_a have_v then_o no_o power_n to_o destroy_v for_o the_o presence_n of_o our_o god_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o for_o a_o defence_n unto_o they_o in_o all_o their_o warlike_a undertake_n oh_o therefore_o you_o sovereign_a governor_n take_v heed_n how_o you_o offend_v these_o little_a one_o of_o christ_n that_o they_o may_v not_o avert_v their_o prayer_n from_o you_o make_v good_a your_o interest_n with_o christ_n and_o his_o saint_n and_o be_v one_o with_o they_o in_o faith_n and_o prayer_n then_o never_o fear_v the_o boisterous_a storm_n or_o wave_n that_o be_v emit_v from_o the_o pillar_n of_o hercules_n to_o our_o albion_a shore_n which_o will_v prove_v but_o as_o the_o daily_a surge_n that_o wash_v our_o rock_n and_o cliff_n and_o so_o dash_v themselves_o into_o froth_n and_o vanish_v next_o the_o gaudy_a gallant_n of_o the_o time_n think_v himself_o the_o most_o fair_a and_o comely_a of_o all_o god_n creature_n and_o look_n upon_o a_o sober_a and_o prudent_a christian_n as_o a_o despicable_a creature_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o gay_a worship_n while_o god_n himself_o set_v another_o character_n upon_o both_o the_o one_o be_v clothe_v with_o the_o white_a garment_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o be_v all_o fair_a with_o the_o beauty_n of_o holiness_n while_o the_o other_o be_v only_o cover_v and_o â—â—â—hed_v with_o the_o excremental_a extravagancy_n and_o menstruosity_n of_o small_a earthy_a brutish_a and_o despicable_a creature_n and_o at_o best_a do_v serve_v but_o in_o the_o room_n of_o fig_n leave_v to_o be_v somewhat_o more_o honourable_a badge_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o misery_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n to_o glory_n in_o that_o which_o be_v the_o everliving_a ensign_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o shame_n and_o see_v the_o lily_n of_o the_o field_n do_v exceed_v even_o solomon_n in_o his_o bravery_n little_a reason_n to_o glory_n in_o those_o rag_n of_o we_o next_o the_o glutton_n that_o make_v his_o belly_n his_o god_n and_o fare_v delicious_o every_o day_n conceive_v he_o have_v a_o heaven_n on_o earth_n and_o that_o the_o poor_a afflict_a christian_n come_v far_a short_a of_o his_o happiness_n in_o that_o he_o have_v not_o that_o fullness_n every_o day_n in_o the_o variety_n of_o viand_n and_o festival_n that_o he_o enjoy_v but_o alas_o this_o wretched_a dives_n never_o consider_v that_o a_o poor_a christian_n have_v other_o food_n to_o eat_v then_o he_o ever_o know_v of_o he_o have_v spiritual_a manna_n bread_n from_o heaven_n and_o the_o wine_n of_o paradise_n that_o he_o be_v quite_o ignorant_a of_o that_o he_o that_o eat_v thereof_o shall_v never_o hunger_n or_o thirst_n more_o last_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o world_n look_v upon_o the_o distress_a disciple_n of_o christ_n as_o fool_n wittol_n and_o maâ—_n man_n and_o think_v they_o to_o be_v so_o indeed_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o judicious_a christian_n know_v the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o world_n to_o be_v foolishness_n and_o madness_n to_o purpose_n for_o who_o but_o fool_n and_o madman_n will_v perverse_o run_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o destruction_n as_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o world_n do_v prompt_v unto_o whilst_o christ_n faithful_a one_o though_o suppress_v and_o break_v by_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n yet_o do_v walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n and_o shine_v as_o star_n in_o the_o firmament_n of_o their_o church_n and_o grace_n observe_v 3._o that_o the_o sharp_a persecution_n come_v from_o such_o as_o be_v the_o high_a pretender_n to_o truth_n and_o godliness_n the_o jew_n be_v such_o that_o boast_v much_o of_o their_o diuâ—â—â—cles_n and_o privilege_n from_o abraham_n luke_n 3.8_o yet_o â—ere_z the_o most_o inveterate_a and_o bitter_a adversary_n to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o primitive_a apostolical_a church_n of_o any_o person_n in_o the_o world_n witness_v their_o reproachful_a blasphemy_n which_o consist_v not_o only_o against_o christ_n himself_o but_o against_o his_o member_n also_o they_o reproach_v he_o that_o he_o have_v a_o devil_n and_o that_o by_o beelzobub_n he_o do_v his_o miracle_n and_o cast_v out_o devil_n yea_o their_o malice_n be_v not_o only_o to_o he_o live_v but_o reach_v he_o after_o his_o crucifiction_n and_o resurrection_n that_o if_o possible_o they_o can_v destroy_v or_o weaken_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o disciple_n and_o withal_o hinder_v the_o promulgation_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o to_o that_o
to_o they_o and_o as_o apt_a to_o hear_v they_o as_o they_o you_o but_o i_o confess_v you_o have_v those_o christian_n society_n and_o church_n among_o you_o that_o be_v as_o lily_n shine_v in_o grace_n among_o those_o thorn_n and_o unfruitful_a nation_n and_o to_o retard_v our_o reformation_n in_o church_n and_o ordinance_n till_o all_o be_v square_v and_o hew_v fit_a for_o this_o work_n or_o before_o the_o magistrate_n compel_v all_o unto_o this_o work_n be_v a_o vain_a expectation_n see_v that_o there_o be_v so_o much_o of_o that_o old_a leven_a of_o our_o ancestor_n national_a church_n national_a officer_n birth_n privilege_n and_o ordinance_n on_o that_o account_n etc._n etc._n still_o remain_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o most_o among_o we_o that_o it_o will_v not_o only_o render_v the_o work_n of_o a_o full_a reformation_n in_o this_o generation_n most_o difficult_a but_o the_o attempt_n thereof_o rather_o dangerous_a and_o prejudicial_a not_o only_o to_o the_o faithful_a in_o this_o land_n but_o general_o to_o the_o cause_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o the_o reform_a nation_n round_o about_o we_o witness_v the_o intemperate_a zeal_n of_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n who_o become_v a_o reproach_n and_o a_o shame_n in_o their_o irregular_a attempt_n about_o this_o work_n though_o they_o have_v good_a heart_n and_o desire_v and_o aim_v at_o good_a and_o just_a thing_n yet_o they_o prosecute_v it_o not_o just_o for_o to_o denominate_v a_o good_a action_n or_o work_n the_o thing_n itself_o desire_v and_o attempt_v must_v not_o only_o be_v a_o good_a and_o honest_a thing_n in_o itself_o as_o a_o full_a reformation_n to_o god_n word_n be_v but_o it_o must_v have_v other_o honest_a circumstance_n in_o it_o also_o 1_o the_o time_n when_o must_v be_v consider_v in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o god_n and_o a_o clear_a providence_n call_v unto_o it_o 2_o the_o manner_n how_o must_v be_v consider_v in_o a_o peaceable_a manner_n it_o be_v to_o be_v endeavour_v and_o promote_v as_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o peace_n not_o with_o war_n tumult_n and_o rebellion_n against_o magistrate_n which_o be_v as_o the_o sin_n of_o witchcraft_n so_o that_o the_o best_a action_n may_v lose_v its_o reward_n and_o the_o atempter_n thereof_o suffer_v just_o for_o the_o unjust_a prosecution_n thereof_o it_o be_v a_o sure_a rule_n to_o christian_n that_o they_o be_v to_o do_v no_o evil_n that_o good_a may_v come_v thereof_o we_o be_v not_o to_o sin_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o ordinance_n of_o magistracy_n unless_o case_n of_o inevitable_a necessity_n where_o god_n will_v rather_o have_v mercy_n then_o sacrifice_n to_o promote_v any_o just_a end_n or_o good_a whatsoever_o for_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o walk_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n command_n and_o precept_n not_o of_o event_n and_o providence_n therefore_o all_o you_o faithful_a one_o of_o this_o land_n be_v wise_a and_o sober_a in_o this_o your_o way_n of_o temptation_n stop_v not_o the_o current_n of_o god_n reformation_n by_o your_o precipitate_a and_o irregular_a act_n be_v you_o still_o and_o you_o shall_v see_v the_o salvation_n of_o our_o god_n you_o see_v the_o main_a hindrance_n of_o this_o full_a work_n among_o we_o even_o the_o old_a leven_a of_o false_a worship_n derive_v and_o leave_v unto_o we_o from_o our_o ancestor_n god_n will_v remove_v this_o more_o and_o more_o by_o step_n and_o degree_n and_o that_o more_o general_o and_o will_v enlarge_v the_o tent_n of_o jacob_n among_o we_o if_o we_o provoke_v not_o god_n by_o our_o sin_n towards_o he_o but_o to_o expect_v a_o total_a reformation_n never_o look_v for_o it_o until_o the_o day_n star_n shall_v arise_v with_o a_o incomparable_a glory_n in_o the_o interim_n let_v we_o walk_v honest_o and_o sober_o like_o child_n of_o the_o light_n serve_v and_o fear_v god_n and_o honour_v the_o king_n and_o than_o god_n will_v make_v they_o unto_o we_o nurse_n father_n and_o nurse_n mother_n and_o most_o happy_a and_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n that_o have_v their_o portion_n and_o lot_n in_o such_o a_o land_n object_n but_o after_o all_o this_o a_o objection_n may_v be_v rise_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v those_o among_o they_o that_o hold_v and_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n and_o practise_v spiritual_a and_o corporal_a adultery_n so_o hold_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n thyatira_n have_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabel_n galathia_fw-la the_o jewish_a doctrine_n of_o circumcision_n and_o many_o other_o great_a corruption_n be_v among_o those_o primitive_a church_n as_o drunkenness_n deny_v the_o resurrection_n incest_n eat_v thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n and_o the_o obscenity_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n yet_o these_o be_v still_o call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n his_o seven_o candlestick_n his_o faithful_a one_o call_v and_o elect_a and_o be_v not_o then_o our_o parochial_a church_n our_o national_a church_n as_o true_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o those_o be_v and_o be_v they_o not_o as_o sound_v in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o those_o first_o primitive_a christian_n and_o church_n be_v and_o so_o deserve_v the_o name_n of_o church_n of_o christ_n faithful_a elect_a and_o call_v as_o well_o as_o they_o 1_o i_o answer_v we_o be_v to_o look_v unto_o the_o first_o institution_n of_o all_o church_n if_o they_o be_v gather_v and_o plant_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o spirit_n they_o be_v true_o church_n of_o christ_n elect_v and_o call_v though_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o envious_a one_o sow_v plentiful_o among_o the_o good_a wheat_n his_o tare_n and_o darnel_n as_o among_o those_o of_o corinth_n pergamus_n and_o other_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n yet_o i_o believe_v christ_n have_v but_o a_o few_o thing_n against_o they_o in_o respect_n what_o he_o have_v against_o we_o they_o be_v but_o corrupt_a in_o part_n we_o all_o leprous_a they_o lose_v but_o some_o member_n we_o the_o very_a vital_n for_o i_o much_o question_n whether_o our_o national_a church_n be_v of_o this_o gospel_n structure_n as_o those_o primitive_a church_n be_v at_o the_o first_o seeing_z we_o read_v in_o history_n of_o their_o civil_a institution_n and_o beginning_n be_v so_o divide_v or_o ordain_v by_o the_o politic_a law_n of_o the_o nation_n yet_o withal_o i_o say_v we_o have_v the_o sincere_a faith_n of_o christ_n here_o preach_v among_o we_o present_o after_o if_o not_o in_o the_o very_a apostle_n day_n by_o joseph_n of_o arimathea_n as_o historian_n testify_v this_o good_a seed_n be_v almost_o lose_v among_o we_o but_o again_o revive_v by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n in_o after_o age_n but_o hold_v captive_a and_o low_a under_o the_o tyranny_n of_o antichristian_a darkness_n yet_o doubtless_o god_n have_v here_o and_o elsewhere_o his_o invisible_a church_n and_o elect_a one_o our_o succession_n to_o the_o apostle_n be_v by_o cleave_v to_o their_o doctrine_n and_o so_o we_o own_o a_o succession_n from_o they_o but_o not_o a_o visible_a succession_n of_o church_n for_o so_o we_o have_v sail_v under_o the_o antichrist_n reign_v and_o tyranny_n over_o we_o and_o to_o plead_v that_o our_o parochial_a society_n be_v church_n of_o christ_n be_v but_o at_o best_a to_o plead_v that_o our_o hundred_o or_o counties_n be_v churchdivision_n presbytery_n or_o ecclesiastic_a jurisdiction_n also_o be_v of_o the_o same_o civil_a institution_n with_o the_o former_a but_o some_o write_v that_o dionysius_n pope_n of_o rome_n be_v the_o first_o divider_n and_o institutor_n of_o parish_n about_o anno_fw-la 267._o and_o bring_v into_o england_n by_o honorius_n bishop_n of_o canterbury_n as_o learned_a master_n selden_n in_o his_o book_n de_fw-fr decimis_fw-la testify_v 2_o i_o answer_v if_o our_o church_n be_v right_a in_o their_o first_o institution_n gather_v by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n we_o have_v as_o real_o lose_v the_o very_a be_v of_o our_o church_n under_o antichrist_n reign_n as_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n pergamus_n ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n under_o the_o saracenical_a tyranny_n and_o mahometanism_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v as_o great_a need_n to_o call_v our_o church_n out_o of_o babylon_n and_o to_o restore_v they_o from_o antichristianisme_n as_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n of_o the_o miserable_a captivate_v asian_a church_n from_o turcism_n and_o mahometanism_n unless_o we_o grant_v that_o the_o whore_n of_o babylon_n have_v the_o keep_n and_o be_v the_o preserver_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o true_a spouse_n and_o have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n commit_v unto_o she_o and_o therefore_o the_o authority_n that_o many_o church_n pretend_v unto_o by_o succession_n of_o church_n be_v but_o a_o sorry_a one_o and_o at_o the_o best_a but_o antichristian_a and_o popish_a last_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v not_o corruption_n in_o
a_o church_n do_v nullify_v a_o church_n though_o very_o high_a if_o right_a and_o sound_a in_o the_o root_n and_o hold_v fast_o the_o faith_n this_o give_v the_o very_o be_v to_o a_o church_n and_o so_o i_o say_v that_o many_o of_o our_o national_a church_n have_v now_o renonunce_v their_o institution_n and_o call_v from_o antichrist_n and_o be_v call_v to_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o faith_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n be_v become_v spouse_n of_o christ_n call_v and_o faithful_a though_o mix_v with_o many_o corruption_n and_o unsound_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o pergamus_n corinth_n and_o other_o be_v yet_o for_o their_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o sacrament_n among_o they_o be_v to_o be_v account_v as_o golden_a candlestick_n of_o the_o lord_n church_n of_o christ_n holy_a and_o sanctify_a but_o still_o observe_v this_o that_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n the_o more_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a one_o have_v the_o great_a praise_n great_a manifestation_n of_o love_n grace_n comfort_n and_o glory_n on_o she_o than_o any_o of_o the_o other_o the_o more_o unsound_a one_o though_o they_o be_v sister_n yet_o this_o be_v the_o only_a one_o of_o her_o mother_n though_o all_o the_o rest_n be_v daughter_n yet_o this_o be_v the_o rose_n of_o sharon_n and_o the_o lily_n of_o the_o valley_n though_o the_o rest_n be_v christ_n vineyard_n too_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o garden_n enclose_v where_o he_o take_v his_o delight_n at_o noon_n and_o thus_o much_o hereon_o shall_v suffice_v verse_n 16._o repent_v or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o quick_o and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n repent_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d grow_v wise_a change_v thy_o judgement_n and_o practice_v from_o evil_a to_o good_a cast_v off_o thy_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n and_o return_v unto_o i_o in_o sincerity_n and_o holiness_n or_o else_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v long_o before_o i_o come_v against_o thou_o and_o make_v war_n against_o thou_o for_o so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d carry_v it_o and_o that_o with_o a_o most_o cut_v confound_v weapon_n the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n which_o be_v his_o word_n and_o doctrine_n christ_n make_v war_n with_o his_o enemy_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n or_o word_n two_o way_n first_o he_o manage_n it_o as_o light_a to_o discover_v darkness_n by_o his_o angel_n and_o minister_n both_o for_o the_o evince_a confound_a and_o overthrow_v all_o false_a worship_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n and_o thus_o he_o manifest_v his_o displeasure_n from_o heaven_n by_o his_o word_n against_o all_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n as_o he_o do_v here_o against_o the_o balaamitish_a and_o nicolaish_n doctrine_n of_o pergamus_n and_o as_o he_o have_v do_v of_o late_a among_o we_o against_o all_o popish_a and_o superstitious_a innovation_n and_o false_a worship_n but_o second_o if_o the_o ministerial_a convince_a word_n will_v not_o serve_v to_o recall_n and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n his_o rebellious_a people_n or_o enemy_n he_o will_v proceed_v far_o by_o his_o terrible_a doctrine_n or_o word_n of_o judgement_n against_o they_o if_o pergamus_n will_v not_o repent_v upon_o the_o conviction_n of_o her_o sin_n christ_n will_v go_v out_o and_o fight_v against_o she_o and_o remove_v her_o candlestick_n from_o among_o she_o yea_o god_n will_v call_v for_o a_o nabuchadnezzar_n a_o mahomet_n a_o ottoman_a and_o they_o shall_v be_v call_v his_o servant_n to_o execute_v the_o lord_n command_n and_o burden_n of_o judgement_n against_o his_o rebellious_a sinful_a church_n and_o thus_o christ_n sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v with_o which_o he_o fight_v against_o his_o enemy_n chap._n 19.21_o thus_o the_o remnant_n of_o the_o follower_n of_o the_o beast_n and_o false_a prophet_n be_v slay_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o horse_n which_o sword_n proceed_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n that_o be_v as_o honest_a bishop_n hall_n on_o the_o place_n say_v they_o be_v slay_v by_o the_o powerful_a command_n of_o christ_n not_o only_o spiritual_o or_o analogical_o but_o corporal_o and_o upon_o their_o bodily_a death_n all_o the_o fowl_n be_v fill_v with_o their_o flesh_n thus_o far_o bishop_n hall_n god_n command_v to_o take_v the_o child_n of_o babel_n and_o to_o dash_v they_o against_o the_o wall_n take_v those_o my_o enemy_n and_o slay_v they_o before_o i_o say_v the_o lord_n thus_o we_o see_v what_o be_v the_o sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n that_o he_o draw_v against_o his_o unrepentant_a and_o obstinate_a wicked_a church_n first_o confusion_n of_o their_o false_a doctrine_n by_o his_o powerful_a ministerial_a word_n and_o spirit_n next_o of_o their_o person_n by_o command_a war_n or_o famine_n or_o pestilence_n on_o they_o for_o they_o be_v also_o his_o destroy_a weapon_n jer._n 47.7_o now_o this_o be_v do_v and_o command_v by_o christ_n sometime_o express_o in_o scripture_n as_o rev._n 18.6_o 7_o 8._o reward_v she_o as_o she_o have_v reward_v you_o and_o cap._n 12._o 10._o he_o that_o kill_v with_o the_o sword_n must_v be_v kill_v with_o the_o sword_n sometime_o it_o be_v do_v providential_o by_o move_v on_o the_o heart_n of_o prince_n to_o war_n the_o persian_a against_o the_o turk_n or_o the_o turk_n against_o the_o emperor_n or_o venetian_a the_o english_a against_o the_o spaniard_n and_o spaniard_n against_o the_o french_a and_o so_o in_o the_o turmoil_n thereof_o many_o corrupt_a church_n of_o christ_n perish_v utter_o as_o to_o their_o outward_a state_n and_o policy_n and_o this_o be_v the_o way_n that_o the_o great_a whore_n herself_o will_v fall_v and_o perish_v rev._n 17.16_o 17._o or_o three_o god_n send_v immediate_o his_o destroy_a angel_n to_o execute_v his_o wrath_n as_o ez._n 9.1_o 2_o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o against_o his_o idolatrous_a people_n the_o jew_n and_o as_o many_o other_o place_n testify_v to_o smite_v they_o for_o their_o abomination_n and_o their_o wickedness_n observe_v 1._o note_v from_o these_o word_n that_o repentance_n be_v the_o only_a gospel_n remedy_n to_o divert_v the_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n of_o god_n go_v forth_o against_o a_o wicked_a church_n or_o people_n repent_v or_o else_o say_v the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n you_o know_v what_o will_v follow_v turn_v from_o sinful_a way_n and_o turn_v to_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o keep_v god_n presence_n still_o among_o we_o if_o we_o will_v have_v have_v turn_v unto_o god_n from_o our_o former_a false_a way_n of_o worship_n and_o wicked_a practice_n against_o god_n law_n and_o his_o saint_n we_o shall_v not_o have_v see_v those_o late_a desolate_v day_n among_o we_o ahab_n repentance_n though_o it_o be_v formal_a and_o outward_a yet_o it_o stop_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n judgement_n much_o in_o his_o day_n but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o real_a repentance_n or_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o a_o back-slidden_a and_o corrupt_a church_n god_n real_o divert_v his_o threaten_a judgement_n and_o this_o be_v mere_o a_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o not_o legal_a as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o for_o the_o law_n say_v the_o soul_n that_o sin_v shall_v die_v the_o law_n admtis_fw-la of_o no_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n for_o sin_n but_o satisfaction_n and_o justice_n but_o the_o law_n of_o grace_n or_o gospel_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n he_o have_v full_o satisfy_v both_o law_n and_o justice_n for_o sin_n and_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o law_n cry_v out_o in_o the_o street_n and_o to_o every_o creature_n repent_v and_o believe_v believe_v and_o repent_v for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n see_v more_o at_o large_a on_o the_o precedent_n 5._o vers_fw-la of_o this_o cap._n what_o repentance_n be_v but_o by_o the_o way_n take_v a_o character_n of_o true_a penitent_n first_o they_o abhor_v themselves_o in_o their_o own_o eye_n the_o sight_n of_o their_o sin_n make_v they_o to_o abhor_v and_o loathe_v themselves_o ezek._n 20.43_o and_o job_n 42.6_o second_o this_o they_o do_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o evil_a that_o sin_n bring_v upon_o they_o as_o for_o the_o evil_n itself_o which_o be_v in_o sin_n be_v a_o offence_n against_o god_n and_o his_o divine_a will_n and_o holy_a law_n psal_n 51.2_o three_o their_o repentance_n be_v universal_a and_o perfect_a as_o to_o its_o part_n it_o be_v not_o one_o sin_n or_o corruption_n they_o leave_v but_o all_o ezek._n 20.43_o you_o shall_v loathe_v yourselves_o in_o your_o own_o sight_n for_o all_o the_o evil_n that_o you_o have_v commit_v four_o they_o be_v afterward_o the_o more_o jealous_a of_o god_n glory_n and_o fearful_a to_o sin_n against_o he_o say_v how_o shall_v we_o do_v this_o thing_n and_o sin_n against_o our_o god_n who_o have_v wash_v we_o and_o
unto_o its_o operation_n and_o office_n i_o can_v but_o judge_v they_o very_o immorigerous_a unto_o the_o sweet_a and_o easy_a yoke_n of_o christ_n that_o will_v not_o endure_v a_o pastor_n a_o angel_n a_o minister_n over_o they_o to_o precede_v in_o all_o official_a duty_n unto_o the_o flock_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v unto_o such_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v commit_v the_o oversight_n of_o the_o flock_n and_o therefore_o all_o be_v to_o submit_v unto_o they_o as_o unto_o the_o lord_n for_o though_o i_o shall_v grant_v many_o thing_n unto_o the_o member_n in_o common_a with_o their_o officer_n yet_o not_o to_o be_v officer_n or_o pastor_n in_o common_a with_o they_o for_o there_o be_v none_o such_o as_o pastor_n of_o pastor_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n but_o pastor_n of_o the_o flock_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o as_o i_o can_v never_o brook_v a_o lawless_a community_n or_o level_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n all_o to_o be_v ruler_n and_o teacher_n and_o none_o to_o be_v teach_v and_o rule_v so_o neither_o will_v it_o comport_v with_o truth_n according_a to_o my_o judgement_n to_o admit_v of_o pastor_n over_o pastor_n or_o one_o presbytery_n over_o another_o no_o far_o than_o prudence_n will_v lead_v unto_o but_o not_o of_o divine_a right_n and_o equity_n it_o be_v evident_a these_o seven_o asian_a church_n and_o all_o the_o other_o the_o primitive_a apostolical_a one_o be_v pastoral_n episcopal_n independent_a one_o i_o think_v it_o no_o paradox_n to_o assert_v that_o a_o episcopal_a church_n may_v be_v independent_a for_o i_o take_v such_o a_o one_o to_o be_v of_o divine_a right_a indeed_o whilst_o the_o prelatical_a episcopal_a church_n have_v lose_v its_o jure_fw-la divino_fw-la by_o exalt_v itself_o beyond_o christ_n bound_n and_o take_v too_o much_o upon_o it_o observe_v 2._o that_o the_o pure_a undefiled_a saint_n of_o christ_n be_v person_n of_o high_a esteem_n and_o account_v with_o god_n they_o be_v man_n of_o name_n and_o quality_n god_n take_v notice_n of_o they_o as_o man_n of_o most_o excellent_a and_o eminent_a spirit_n all_o the_o rest_n of_o sardis_n beside_o they_o be_v but_o such_o that_o have_v the_o name_n that_o they_o be_v live_v but_o be_v dead_a those_o be_v they_o that_o shall_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a for_o they_o be_v worthy_a all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n be_v not_o of_o the_o same_o value_n with_o these_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v those_o for_o who_o the_o world_n be_v make_v yea_o god_n reprove_v king_n for_o their_o sake_n say_v touch_v not_o my_o anoint_v psal_n 105.15_o they_o be_v god_n jewel_n his_o precious_a one_o which_o he_o make_v up_o in_o safety_n and_o security_n when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v on_o fire_n and_o combustion_n beside_o they_o be_v in_o a_o land_n of_o goshen_n of_o light_n peace_n and_o comfort_n mal._n 3.17_o and_o the_o great_a reason_n of_o this_o be_v in_o that_o they_o have_v the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o god_n upon_o they_o and_o his_o spirit_n dwell_v in_o they_o and_o every_o thing_n do_v love_n and_o high_o esteem_v its_o like_a for_o likeness_n be_v the_o root_n of_o love_n much_o more_o god_n who_o be_v love_v itself_o will_v high_o esteem_v and_o love_v his_o saint_n be_v the_o workmanship_n of_o his_o own_o hand_n even_o in_o sardis_n thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n hence_o note_v observe_v 3._o that_o in_o the_o most_o corrupt_a church_n state_n christ_n may_v have_v some_o choose_v and_o precious_a saint_n sardis_n have_v but_o the_o name_n that_o show_v as_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a and_o yet_o in_o this_o nominal_a dead_a formal_a church_n god_n have_v a_o few_o name_n there_o that_o be_v precious_a to_o he_o the_o church_n of_o god_n do_v never_o total_o fail_v upon_o the_o earth_n nor_o never_o shall_v though_o the_o visibility_n thereof_o may_v fail_v yet_o the_o invisible_a church_n will_v never_o fail_v when_o all_o flesh_n have_v corrupt_v its_o way_n and_o wickedness_n of_o man_n grow_v great_a and_o the_o earth_n fill_v with_o violence_n before_o the_o flood_n gen._n 6.11_o 12._o yet_o then_o be_v noah_n undefiled_a and_o a_o faithful_a preacher_n of_o righteousness_n yea_o he_o be_v just_a and_o perfect_a in_o his_o generation_n and_o walk_v with_o god_n in_o the_o corrupt_a church_n state_n in_o the_o day_n of_o ahab_n when_o jezebel_n cut_v off_o the_o prophet_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o set_v up_o idolatry_n in_o the_o room_n of_o they_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o the_o godly_a and_o righteous_a so_o vex_v and_o waste_v that_o elijah_n the_o prophet_n think_v none_o but_o himself_o leave_v in_o israel_n even_o than_o the_o lord_n tell_v he_o there_o be_v seven_o thousand_o which_o have_v not_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o baal_n 1_o king_n 1.18_o in_o the_o time_n when_o christ_n come_v in_o the_o flesh_n which_o be_v in_o a_o exceed_a bad_a and_o corrupt_a church_n state_n and_o in_o a_o time_n when_o the_o jewish_a church_n be_v never_o more_o corrupt_a than_o when_o he_o come_v yet_o there_o be_v then_o a_o joseph_n a_o mary_n a_o zachariah_n and_o elizabeth_n a_o simeon_n and_o anna_n and_o some_o few_o other_o that_o true_o fear_a god_n in_o the_o dark_a and_o deep_a night_n of_o popery_n there_o be_v some_o faithful_a witness_n unto_o the_o truth_n the_o waldenses_n the_o abigenses_n pauperes_fw-la lugdunenses_n etc._n etc._n of_o who_o some_o of_o the_o popish_a writer_n themselves_o testify_v that_o they_o be_v upright_o in_o their_o carriage_n and_o believe_v aright_o concern_v god_n only_o they_o blaspheme_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n so_o there_o be_v a_o huc_fw-la a_o jerome_n of_o prague_n a_o wickliff_n berengarius_fw-la peter_n de_fw-fr bruis_n luther_n oecolompadius_fw-la melancthon_n etc._n etc._n in_o a_o time_n and_o state_n bad_a enough_o so_o here_o in_o england_n when_o the_o church_n be_v exceed_v corrupt_a under_o the_o prelacy_n yet_o then_o appear_v here_o a_o cartwright_n hooker_n ames_n parker_n bolton_n robinson_n reynolds_n aynsworth_n baynes_n and_o many_o other_o precious_a saint_n and_o faithful_a witness_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n observe_v 4._o god_n accept_v the_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a as_o worthy_a of_o eternal_a life_n at_o 5.8_o bless_a be_v the_o pure_a in_o heart_n for_o they_o shall_v see_v god_n they_o be_v those_o that_o shall_v walk_v in_o white_a with_o christ_n and_o inherit_v the_o kingdom_n with_o he_o quest_n but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v do_v not_o this_o assert_v a_o merit_n in_o work_n or_o that_o purity_n in_o the_o life_n do_v exact_a from_o god_n in_o the_o way_n of_o justice_n some_o answerable_a compensation_n to_o it_o i_o answer_v first_o and_o assert_v that_o holiness_n or_o purity_n of_o heart_n be_v the_o descriptive_a quality_n of_o those_o that_o shall_v see_v god_n they_o and_o they_o only_o of_o adult_a person_n be_v accept_v by_o god_n to_o that_o high_a privilege_n second_o i_o grant_v too_o that_o the_o eternal_a life_n of_o happiness_n be_v set_v forth_o and_o give_v as_o a_o prize_n as_o a_o reward_n as_o a_o crown_n to_o the_o conquer_a saint_n so_o in_o this_o and_o the_o last_o chapter_n it_o be_v often_o promise_v unto_o such_o holy_a one_o under_o such_o a_o notion_n of_o a_o crown_n and_o reward_n three_o but_o i_o utter_o deny_v that_o it_o have_v the_o least_o proportion_n to_o satisfy_v divine_a justice_n or_o merit_v the_o least_o in_o strict_a justice_n from_o god_n towards_o eternal_a life_n 1._o because_o eternal_a life_n be_v the_o free_a gift_n of_o god_n and_o he_o give_v it_o to_o who_o he_o please_v joh_n 17.2_o 1_o joh._n 5.11_o 2._o because_o divine_a justice_n require_v exact_a obedience_n which_o say_v that_o he_o that_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o breach_n of_o one_o tittle_n of_o the_o law_n be_v guilty_a of_o the_o transgression_n of_o the_o whole_a for_o the_o best_a saint_n be_v so_o imperfect_a in_o their_o obedience_n that_o they_o come_v far_o short_a in_o obtain_v any_o thing_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n in_o strict_a justice_n 3._o because_o our_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n be_v the_o alone_a work_n of_o god_n own_o grace_n and_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o improper_o say_v to_o merit_v at_o his_o own_o hand_n a_o child_n may_v merit_v from_o his_o father_n in_o justice_n by_o his_o filial_a obedience_n the_o parent_n be_v under_o a_o natural_a law_n of_o compensation_n as_o well_o as_o the_o child_n be_v under_o the_o law_n of_o obedience_n towards_o he_o but_o god_n our_o heavenly_a father_n be_v tie_v up_o unto_o no_o such_o law_n be_v a_o free_a agent_n and_o give_v life_n to_o who_o he_o please_v 4._o and_o therefore_o last_o because_o man_n have_v forfeit_v his_o first_o covenant_n of_o merit_n and_o life_n by_o righteousness_n in_o adam_n and_o
will_v keep_v she_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n be_v no_o more_o in_o effect_n but_o as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v i_o will_v keep_v thou_o from_o the_o hurt_n and_o danger_n of_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o all_o the_o christian_n church_n in_o the_o world_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o constancy_n in_o all_o the_o quarter_n of_o the_o earth_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o not_o any_o of_o christ_n church_n be_v exempt_v from_o trial_n and_o temptation_n and_o the_o great_a reason_n of_o this_o be_v that_o the_o church_n most_o thrive_v and_o grow_v this_o way_n it_o be_v observe_v a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n grow_v fair_a and_o large_a and_o it_o be_v ancient_o say_v that_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o martyr_n be_v the_o seed-plot_n of_o the_o church_n the_o more_o time_n that_o gold_n be_v refine_v by_o the_o refiner_n fire_n the_o more_o ductible_a and_o solid_a it_o become_v so_o christ_n church_n the_o more_o trial_n they_o go_v under_o the_o more_o eminent_a and_o resplendent_a they_o become_v in_o grace_n in_o the_o day_n of_o affliction_n under_o bishop_n and_o prelate_n more_o true_a godliness_n do_v appear_v then_o at_o present_a in_o the_o day_n of_o prosperity_n and_o peace_n a_o belove_a child_n never_o escape_v without_o a_o rod_n from_o his_o father_n when_o he_o offend_v neither_o a_o true_a church_n from_o god_n fatherly_a trial_n and_o chastisement_n for_o in_o some_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o and_o the_o best_a have_v their_o maculae_fw-la their_o spot_n dross_n and_o defection_n to_o be_v purge_v from_o therefore_o not_o strange_a when_o we_o fall_v into_o diverse_a trial_n by_o this_o we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v not_o bastard_n but_o son_n belove_v of_o god_n heb._n 12._o and_o all_o thing_n shall_v work_v together_o for_o good_a to_o those_o that_o fear_v god_n observe_v 2._o another_o note_n hence_o be_v that_o the_o great_a hour_n of_o calamity_n and_o temptation_n that_o come_v upon_o the_o world_n be_v but_o a_o trial_n unto_o the_o godly_a temptation_n unto_o the_o wicked_a be_v god_n judgement_n towards_o they_o they_o be_v the_o executioner_n of_o his_o wrath_n and_o justice_n he_o destroy_v the_o wicked_a in_o his_o fiery_a indignation_n but_o unto_o the_o godly_a they_o be_v only_o for_o their_o trial_n strengthen_v and_o better_v to_o one_o god_n give_v riches_n honour_n preferment_n &c._n &c._n as_o a_o mercy_n to_o the_o other_o they_o become_v snare_n unto_o and_o destructive_a so_o also_o on_o the_o godly_a as_o on_o job_n god_n send_v the_o plunder_v sabaean_n as_o a_o trial_n of_o their_o patience_n on_o the_o other_o as_o the_o executioner_n of_o his_o wrath_n sword_n famine_n or_o death_n that_o equal_o sweep_v away_o both_o yet_o unto_o the_o one_o they_o be_v but_o the_o instrument_n gate_n or_o door_n to_o a_o high_a glory_n yet_o unto_o the_o other_o a_o entrance_n unto_o final_a judgement_n therefore_o saint_n think_v it_o neither_o no_o loss_n when_o temptation_n seize_v upon_o they_o they_o become_v more_o weighty_a more_o solid_a more_o sound_a more_o sincere_a more_o experimental_a more_o gracious_a and_o at_o last_o more_o glorious_a thereby_o and_o on_o this_o ground_n how_o little_a be_v they_o trouble_v when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v on_o fire_n and_o in_o combustion_n about_o their_o ear_n when_o many_o do_v call_v for_o the_o mountain_n to_o fall_v upon_o they_o and_o hide_v they_o from_o the_o fiery_a indignation_n that_o be_v pass_v over_o yet_o they_o be_v placide_fw-la serene_a and_o in_o a_o haltion_n condition_n all_o be_v peace_n with_o they_o though_o all_o the_o world_n be_v fire_n about_o they_o be_v so_o far_o above_o the_o world_n verse_n 11._o behold_v i_o come_v quick_o hold_v that_o fast_o which_o thou_o have_v that_o no_o man_n take_v thy_o crown_n christ_n tell_v philadelphia_n that_o he_o be_v about_o a_o remarkable_a and_o notable_a work_n and_o it_o be_v behold_v i_o come_v quick_o this_o be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o christ_n second_o come_v to_o judgement_n nor_o of_o his_o spiritual_a come_n but_o of_o his_o come_n with_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n and_o trial_n upon_o his_o church_n this_o be_v somewhat_o agreeable_a unto_o that_o expression_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n cap._n 2._o 5._o else_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o quick_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n etc._n etc._n so_o christ_n tell_v the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n with_o a_o behold_v to_o usher_v it_o in_o i_o come_v quick_o what_o to_o do_v but_o with_o that_o hour_n of_o temptation_n upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v all_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n which_o happen_v and_o fall_v out_o present_o after_o this_o vision_n be_v give_v unto_o john_n in_o the_o time_n of_o trajan_n the_o emperor_n who_o succeed_v domitian_n in_o who_o day_n this_o revelation_n be_v give_v to_o john_n at_o patmos_n and_o in_o the_o day_n of_o trajan_n his_o successor_n this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n trial_n affliction_n and_o persecution_n seize_v upon_o all_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o asia_n and_o else_o where_o therefore_o she_o be_v exhort_v to_o hold_v fast_o what_o she_o have_v receive_v and_o that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o patience_n which_o she_o have_v former_o receive_v and_o keep_v and_o that_o she_o be_v now_o again_o exhort_v to_o hold_v fast_o maintain_v and_o persevere_v in_o when_o that_o hour_n of_o temptation_n come_v on_o all_o they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o the_o consideration_n of_o christ_n speedy_a come_n with_o time_n of_o trial_n upon_o his_o church_n be_v a_o special_a motive_n to_o persevere_v with_o constancy_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n if_o we_o know_v that_o judgement_n be_v so_o near_o at_o the_o door_n it_o will_v make_v we_o to_o trim_v up_o our_o lamp_n to_o have_v they_o furnish_v with_o the_o oil_n of_o faith_n and_o light_n of_o good_a work_n that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n no_o great_a motive_n to_o set_v a_o edge_n upon_o our_o grace_n then_o to_o know_v that_o christ_n be_v near_o with_o time_n of_o trial_n if_o we_o know_v the_o good_a man_n of_o the_o house_n will_v return_v this_o present_a day_n we_o will_v have_v all_o thing_n garnish_v to_o bid_v he_o welcome_a hold_v fast_o for_o i_o come_v quick_o or_o else_o as_o in_o the_o next_o word_n you_o will_v lose_v your_o honour_n and_o your_o crown_n hold_v that_o fast_o which_o thou_o have_v that_o no_o man_n take_v thy_o crown_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n thou_o have_v hitherto_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n keep_v close_o unto_o my_o gospel_n go_v on_o courageous_o in_o that_o course_n which_o thou_o have_v begin_v hold_v fast_o and_o persevere_v therein_o lest_o if_o thou_o fail_v in_o thy_o course_n another_z come_z and_o take_v away_o thy_o crown_n and_o reward_n here_o lie_v a_o difficulty_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o crown_n some_o will_v have_v it_o eternal_a life_n which_o be_v the_o crown_n of_o our_o faithful_a adhere_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o doctrine_n but_o i_o can_v adhere_v to_o this_o opinion_n for_o this_o crown_n can_v never_o be_v take_v away_o from_o the_o faithful_a for_o though_o many_o that_o be_v only_o external_o call_v may_v be_v say_v for_o non-persevering_a to_o lose_v their_o crown_n which_o they_o once_o hope_v for_o and_o indeed_o they_o never_o have_v true_a right_n and_o title_n to_o it_o but_o only_o in_o their_o outward_a seem_a call_n and_o in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n but_o not_o of_o god_n election_n and_o predetermination_n as_o former_o more_o at_o large_a be_v manifest_v verse_n 5._o on_o the_o book_n of_o life_n therefore_o sure_o this_o crown_n which_o may_v be_v take_v away_o from_o the_o faithful_a and_o give_v to_o another_o for_o inconstancy_n or_o non-perseverance_n in_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o honour_n and_o reward_v which_o be_v promise_v philadelphia_n in_o verse_n 9_o precede_a that_o all_o her_o enemy_n shall_v fall_v low_a before_o she_o and_o worship_n before_o her_o foot_n which_o kind_n of_o crown_n and_o reward_v indeed_o may_v be_v take_v away_o from_o the_o faithful_a for_o their_o looseness_n slothfulness_n or_o remissness_n in_o duty_n of_o godliness_n to_o which_o they_o be_v often_o promise_v and_o annex_v and_o for_o want_v thereof_o be_v often_o remove_v and_o give_v to_o a_o more_o proficient_a and_o worthy_a people_n so_o you_o see_v what_o be_v this_o crown_n that_o may_v be_v take_v away_o from_o the_o faithful_a for_o their_o
go_v undiscovered_a that_o deserve_v such_o title_n better_v themselves_o or_o at_o least_o wise_a so_o to_o raise_v a_o scarecrow_n to_o drive_v away_o the_o fearful_a and_o disingenuous_a from_o a_o full_a inquire_v into_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n that_o will_v discover_v the_o vanity_n and_o folly_n of_o their_o opposer_n but_o no_o more_o of_o this_o and_o here_o by_o the_o way_n i_o shall_v not_o be_v ashamed_a to_o acquaint_v you_o with_o one_o mistake_n of_o i_o who_o once_o think_v as_o most_o man_n do_v that_o god_n in_o his_o providential_a dispose_v the_o kingdom_n oâ—_n this_o world_n and_o in_o exalt_v man_n of_o low_a degreâ—_n into_o the_o throne_n of_o prince_n and_o throw_v down_o great_a prince_n and_o their_o progeny_n into_o the_o state_n of_o slave_n it_o be_v only_o to_o manifest_v his_o sovereignty_n over_o the_o kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n to_o give_v they_o to_o who_o he_o please_v but_o more_o mature_o consider_v the_o alwise_a order_n hand_n of_o god_n in_o such_o great_a transaction_n i_o have_v find_v the_o issue_n in_o all_o age_n to_o be_v very_o advantageous_a to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o the_o result_n of_o all_o such_o state-shaking_n and_o revolution_n to_o be_v in_o mercy_n towards_o his_o church_n and_o people_n when_o god_n break_v the_o great_a caldeo-assyrian_a monarchy_n and_o transfer_v it_o to_o the_o medio-persian_a how_o wonderful_o and_o by_o what_o strange_a providence_n do_v god_n raise_v cyrus_n his_o servant_n or_o instrument_n for_o that_o work_n who_o be_v expose_v to_o be_v destroy_v by_o the_o command_n of_o his_o grandsire_n astyages_n while_o a_o infant_n upon_o pretence_n of_o some_o fatal_a prophecy_n yet_o preserve_v and_o bring_v up_o among_o shepherd_n as_o his_o story_n go_v that_o afterward_o he_o become_v most_o providential_o the_o great_a deliverer_n of_o god_n people_n the_o jew_n from_o their_o assyrian_a bondage_n moses_n the_o great_a captain_n of_o israel_n we_o be_v sure_o tread_v almost_o the_o same_o path_n under_o a_o strange_a providence_n of_o preservation_n that_o at_o last_o he_o become_v the_o deliverer_n of_o israel_n from_o their_o egyptian_a thraldom_n when_o saul_n be_v set_v by_o who_o be_v of_o a_o kingly_a presence_n and_o by_o the_o head_n and_o shoulder_n above_o his_o brethren_n david_n be_v call_v from_o the_o sheep-cot_a to_o the_o throne_n the_o issue_n whereof_o be_v the_o exaltation_n of_o israel_n and_o the_o downfall_n of_o their_o enemy_n if_o we_o shall_v but_o reflect_v since_o christ_n come_v in_o the_o flesh_n on_o the_o example_n of_o constantine_n the_o great_a son_n unto_o helena_n a_o british_a lady_n who_o through_o many_o glorious_a and_o eminent_a victory_n and_o service_n be_v at_o last_o advance_v to_o the_o imperial_a seat_n and_o how_o he_o at_o last_o become_v as_o a_o temporal_a saviour_n to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o destroyer_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o dragon_n be_v most_o marvellous_a to_o consider_v it_o be_v worth_a further_o the_o take_a notice_n of_o how_o wonderful_o god_n in_o late_a age_n raise_v the_o spirit_n of_o some_o obscure_a person_n as_o martin_n luther_n and_o his_o associate_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n with_o some_o other_o reform_a minister_n since_o that_o they_o have_v make_v the_o great_a hierarchy_n of_o rome_n to_o shake_v with_o their_o power_n so_o that_o many_o christian_a prince_n then_o and_o since_o begin_v to_o hate_v the_o whore_n with_o the_o wine_n of_o who_o fornication_n they_o be_v make_v drunken_a and_o now_o begin_v not_o only_o to_o hate_v she_o but_o to_o make_v her_o desolate_a and_o naked_a and_o to_o eat_v her_o flesh_n but_o yet_o that_o age_n be_v but_o the_o first_o fruit_n or_o prodromus_n not_o the_o consummation_n of_o the_o work_n for_o she_o have_v since_o lift_v up_o her_o head_n and_o endeavour_v to_o cover_v her_o nakedness_n and_o to_o cure_v herself_o of_o her_o great_a wound_n receive_v but_o all_o in_o vain_a for_o her_o period_n draw_v nigh_o god_n exasperate_v she_o sore_o more_o and_o more_o and_o make_v those_o horn_n those_o prince_n that_o be_v once_o her_o strong_a supporter_n to_o fall_v off_o from_o she_o and_o to_o hate_v she_o indeed_o the_o first_o reformer_n take_v off_o her_o outward_a garment_n and_o show_v her_o nakedness_n in_o her_o false_a doctrine_n and_o partly_o in_o her_o false_a worship_n and_o then_o begin_v to_o eat_v her_o flesh_n in_o take_v off_o some_o of_o her_o pompous_a revenue_n but_o yet_o the_o main_a work_n be_v leave_v undo_v to_o its_o appoint_a time_n for_o as_o this_o great_a city_n rise_v not_o in_o one_o day_n but_o gradual_o so_o will_v also_o her_o ruin_n be_v by_o several_a measure_n or_o vial_n of_o god_n wrath_n pour_v out_o upon_o she_o until_o the_o consummation_n of_o her_o ruin_n come_v with_o fire_n both_o material_a and_o analogical_a the_o one_o the_o fire_n of_o god_n word_n first_o destroy_v quite_o her_o false_a worship_n which_o daily_a go_v on_o in_o perfect_v the_o other_o god_n fire_n of_o war_n and_o judgement_n destroy_v quite_o up_o her_o outward_a state_n and_o policy_n that_o her_o place_n be_v no_o more_o find_v and_o to_o the_o bring_n about_o this_o great_a end_n god_n work_v very_o various_o sometime_o in_o move_v on_o the_o heart_n of_o prince_n and_o so_o make_v they_o willing_a unto_o this_o work_n sometime_o in_o lay_v aside_o prince_n of_o ancient_a and_o potent_a family_n and_o raise_v up_o mean_o and_o low_a person_n on_o their_o throne_n as_o he_o most_o wonderful_o have_v do_v of_o late_a among_o ourselves_o to_o who_o he_o give_v heart_n spirit_n and_o gift_n meet_v for_o this_o great_a work_n and_o last_o in_o overrule_a the_o design_n of_o other_o that_o though_o they_o go_v about_o to_o seek_v themselves_o and_o to_o advance_v their_o own_o dominion_n and_o power_n of_o ruling_n yet_o the_o alwise_a providence_n of_o god_n know_v how_o so_o to_o order_v they_o as_o to_o bring_v about_o his_o predesigned_a end_n for_o i_o can_v believe_v that_o they_o will_v be_v all_o pious_a good_a prince_n and_o right_a in_o their_o end_n that_o shall_v be_v employ_v about_o this_o work_n for_o they_o be_v the_o ten_o horn_n or_o ten_o king_n that_o receive_v power_n one_o hour_n with_o the_o beast_n and_o be_v member_n of_o he_o that_o shall_v destroy_v the_o whore_n and_o burn_v she_o with_o fire_n rev._n 17.12.16_o i_o be_o of_o the_o mind_n that_o few_o conclude_v that_o hen._n 8._o and_o some_o other_o prince_n be_v so_o justifiable_a in_o their_o end_n in_o expel_v the_o authority_n of_o antichrist_n as_o they_o shall_v have_v be_v and_o yet_o god_n employ_v they_o as_o his_o instrument_n in_o this_o work_n and_o when_o they_o have_v do_v his_o business_n god_n know_v how_o to_o lay_v they_o by_o and_o all_o such_o self-ended_n person_n as_o useless_a or_o at_o least_o make_v they_o but_o as_o gibeonite_n or_o hewer_n of_o wood_n in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n last_o your_o worship_n may_v be_v please_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o some_o conceive_v those_o and_o the_o like_a interpretation_n of_o dark_a prophecy_n to_o be_v but_o the_o issue_n of_o distemper_a brain_n and_o of_o little_a certainty_n to_o who_o i_o answer_v see_v that_o this_o be_v a_o book_n that_o have_v the_o public_a impress_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o it_o and_o leave_v as_o it_o be_v as_o its_o last_o legacy_n of_o this_o sort_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o profess_v sober_o i_o know_v not_o what_o tolerable_a sense_n to_o set_v on_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o a_o historical_a discovery_n under_o type_n and_o figure_n of_o all_o the_o change_n and_o revolution_n with_o their_o period_n and_o issue_n that_o shall_v befall_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o their_o oppressor_n and_o enemy_n until_o the_o end_n of_o all_o i_o confess_v there_o may_v be_v some_o difference_n in_o interpret_n and_o in_o not_o right_o apply_v some_o of_o the_o several_a character_n period_n and_o vision_n of_o this_o book_n and_o in_o other_o circumstantial_a part_n thereof_o and_o wherein_o i_o fail_v i_o entreat_v not_o only_o your_o worship_n but_o all_o other_o to_o remember_v my_o weakness_n and_o our_o common_a attribute_n humanum_fw-la est_fw-la errare_fw-la and_o especial_o be_v among_o such_o prophetical_a deep_n and_o difficulty_n which_o may_v well_o plead_v for_o his_o fail_n who_o be_v conscious_a of_o his_o insufficiency_n for_o so_o high_a and_o difficult_a a_o undertake_n yet_o this_o i_o dare_v be_v bold_a to_o say_v that_o the_o substantial_a part_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v here_o clear_v and_o discover_v and_o if_o any_o receive_v light_a hereby_o to_o the_o better_a understanding_n the_o dark_a mystery_n thereof_o give_v i_o leave_v to_o say_v with_o daniel_n cap._n
people_n to_o be_v forewarn_v of_o this_o time_n &_o fore_o see_v it_o though_o long_a before_o it_o come_v to_o bear_v up_o their_o spirit_n in_o there_o great_a affliction_n and_o distress_n abraham_n see_v christ_n day_n and_o bless_a god_n though_o see_v it_o afar_o of_o by_o faith_n this_o god_n have_v more_o especial_o do_v in_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n it_o be_v a_o discovery_n unto_o the_o apostle_n john_n in_o prophetical_a representation_n and_o hierogliphique_a figure_n of_o all_o the_o empire_n state_n and_o kingdom_n both_o ethnic_a and_o antichristian_a with_o their_o several_a usurpation_n and_o oppression_n over_o the_o church_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v happen_v from_o john_n time_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n together_o with_o the_o issue_n thereof_o the_o final_a destruction_n of_o the_o one_o and_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o other_o before_o the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o all_o but_o here_o by_o the_o way_n it_o will_v be_v object_v and_o say_v that_o this_o book_n be_v full_a of_o hide_a mystery_n and_o seal_v and_o very_o difficult_a to_o be_v understand_v and_o therefore_o most_o of_o those_o that_o have_v espouse_v their_o study_n to_o the_o open_n of_o this_o book_n have_v come_v of_o with_o loss_n in_o their_o over_o bold_a undertake_n 1._o i_o answer_v this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o s._n john_n be_v indeed_o full_a of_o mystery_n which_o will_v so_o remain_v until_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o do_v discover_v they_o unto_o we_o and_o make_v they_o manifest_v but_o when_o we_o by_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o event_n do_v see_v before_o our_o eye_n the_o effect_n of_o each_o prophecy_n and_o what_o by_o this_o and_o that_o thing_n have_v be_v mean_v it_o be_v now_o no_o long_o a_o mystery_n unto_o we_o it_o be_v now_o obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o mystery_n babylon_n the_o great_a the_o mother_n of_o harlot_n rev._n 17.6_o this_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v clear_a up_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n to_o be_v the_o city_n with_o seven_o head_n reign_v over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o few_o or_o none_o do_v hesitate_n but_o do_v acknowledge_v yea_o even_o the_o learn_v of_o the_o jesuit_n themselves_o as_o bellar._n lib._n 2._o de_fw-fr pontif._n rom._n chap._n 2._o blasius_n viegas_n in_o chap._n 17.18_o apoc._n 5._o sect._n 3_o ribera_n in_o apoc._n châ—p_n 14._o page_n 144._o etc._n etc._n that_o by_o this_o great_a city_n here_o be_v mean_v rome_n likewise_o all_o interpreter_n of_o the_o reformation_n do_v harmonious_o accord_v that_o by_o the_o beast_n of_o seven_o head_n and_o ten_o horn_n rev._n 13_o 1._o must_v be_v mean_v the_o romish_a empire_n divide_v into_o ten_o kingdom_n and_o the_o beast_n with_o two_o horn_n like_o a_o lamb_n rev._n 13.11_o yet_o speak_v like_o a_o dragon_n to_o be_v the_o popish_a antichristian_a hierarchy_n and_o if_o event_n have_v plain_o evidence_v these_o without_o contradiction_n so_o to_o be_v understand_v and_o interpret_v as_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o this_o discourse_n will_v more_o full_o appear_v why_o then_o shall_v if_o seem_v strange_a that_o the_o residue_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n shall_v be_v unlock_v and_o make_v obvious_a as_o well_o as_o the_o former_a since_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n itself_o in_o the_o 17._o chapter_n have_v lay_v the_o first_o ground_n work_n from_o whence_o as_o from_o a_o sure_a foundation_n we_o may_v have_v a_o view_n of_o the_o whole_a revelation_n by_o collate_v history_n time_n and_o passage_n one_o with_o another_o and_o lay_v they_o to_o their_o several_a character_n and_o period_n which_o the_o spirit_n have_v affix_v to_o every_o remarkable_a revolution_n passage_n and_o prophecy_n in_o this_o book_n as_o a_o sure_a token_n and_o touchstone_n to_o find_v they_o out_o and_o make_v they_o manifest_v so_o that_o now_o the_o revelation_n be_v no_o long_o a_o mystery_n but_o a_o book_n of_o history_n of_o memorable_a act_n and_o passage_n wherein_o be_v fore_o tell_v the_o several_a change_n that_o shall_v befall_v to_o the_o secular_a state_n or_o roman_a empire_n and_o to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o that_o empire_n until_o it_o shall_v as_o that_o stone_n prophesy_v of_o in_o dan._n 2._o smite_v the_o image_n on_o his_o foot_n and_o become_v itself_o a_o great_a mountain_n and_o set_v up_o upon_o the_o top_n of_o all_o mountain_n and_o if_o we_o compare_v the_o history_n and_o change_n that_o have_v happen_v in_o the_o roman_a empire_n with_o the_o revelation_n we_o shall_v discover_v clear_o how_o far_o the_o accomplishment_n reach_v and_o what_o we_o may_v expect_v ere_o long_o so_o that_o the_o thing_n represent_v in_o this_o book_n be_v no_o more_o mystery_n and_o hide_a thing_n but_o as_o clear_v and_o accomplish_a act_n unto_o we_o 2._o the_o very_a title_n and_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o first_o chapter_n first_o verse_n of_o this_o book_n deny_v it_o to_o be_v a_o hide_a mystery_n no_o far_o then_o before_o the_o event_n do_v discover_v themselves_o for_o it_o be_v call_v the_o apocalypse_n or_o the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o to_o show_v unto_o his_o servant_n which_o short_o must_v be_v do_v which_o he_o send_v and_o show_v by_o his_o angel_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n beside_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o clear_a letter_n of_o the_o text_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o book_n shut_v and_o seal_v for_o in_o the_o 6._o chapter_n vers_fw-la 8._o the_o lamb_n be_v find_v worthy_a to_o open_v the_o seal_a book_n and_o so_o discovery_n be_v make_v unto_o john_n and_o by_o he_o to_o all_o the_o church_n of_o god_n 3._o that_o little_a book_n mention_v in_o chap._n 10._o which_o more_o especial_o contain_v the_o fate_n or_o destiny_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v a_o open_a book_n and_o the_o son_n of_o god_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o revelation_n chap._n 22.10_o plain_o prohibit_v to_o seal_v the_o say_n of_o the_o prophecy_n of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n therefore_o this_o hence_o clear_o follow_v to_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o our_o supine_n and_o overly_o look_v on_o this_o book_n we_o will_v rather_o have_v it_o seal_v and_o hide_a though_o the_o son_n of_o god_n testify_v the_o contrary_a then_o to_o bestow_v our_o industry_n with_o the_o help_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o seek_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o it_o truth_n be_v like_o treasure_n get_v by_o the_o forest_n labour_v be_v most_o sweet_a and_o precious_a but_o with_o all_o such_o slowbelly_n that_o think_v there_o be_v a_o lion_n in_o the_o way_n i_o leave_v with_o they_o these_o consideration_n be_v it_o the_o book_n or_o word_n of_o god_n or_o not_o if_o it_o be_v as_o i_o hereafter_o shall_v clear_o evince_v then_o study_v it_o some_o good_a will_v come_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o it_o no_o word_n of_o god_n be_v of_o private_a interpretation_n or_o write_v in_o vain_a it_o will_v stand_v in_o great_a stead_n yea_o in_o the_o alpha_n of_o this_o book_n and_o the_o omega_n thereof_o in_o the_o first_o and_o last_o chapter_n there_o be_v a_o blessing_n store_v up_o for_o they_o that_o read_v and_o they_o that_o learn_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n and_o keep_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v therein_o for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n chap._n 1._o ver_fw-la 3._o and_o chap._n 22._o ver_fw-la 7._o and_o shall_v there_o a_o blessing_n be_v promise_v to_o all_o these_o that_o read_v hear_v and_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n and_o he_o that_o have_v promise_v be_v most_o faithful_a to_o perform_v yea_o these_o thing_n say_v the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o have_v his_o eye_n like_v unto_o a_o flame_a fire_n revel_v 2.18_o these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o be_v holy_a and_o true_a chap_n 3.7_o these_o thing_n say_v the_o amen_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n chap._n 3.14_o and_o so_o close_v in_o the_o last_o chapter_n ver_fw-la 6._o that_o these_o say_n be_v faithful_a and_o true_a heaven_n and_o earth_n shall_v first_o pass_v away_o before_o one_o jota_fw-la or_o tittle_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n shall_v fall_v to_o the_o ground_n unaccomplish_v i_o say_v shall_v there_o a_o blessing_n be_v promise_v upon_o so_o faithful_a ground_n and_o will_v thou_o not_o look_v after_o it_o i_o shall_v judge_v blessedness_n worth_a the_o look_n after_o see_v that_o he_o that_o have_v promise_v be_v most_o ready_a willing_a and_o able_a to_o perform_v but_o if_o it_o demand_v what_o be_v the_o advantage_n what_o be_v this_o blessing_n that_o may_v accrue_v in_o read_v hear_v and_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n i_o answer_v
much_o every_o way_n both_o to_o every_o particular_a soul_n and_o to_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o christ_n first_o if_o there_o be_v no_o more_o in_o it_o but_o the_o detect_n and_o make_v manifest_a of_o the_o antichristian_a whore_n or_o state_n and_o the_o pollution_n thereof_o and_o so_o give_v a_o warning_n to_o all_o god_n people_n to_o come_v out_o of_o she_o and_o not_o to_o partake_v of_o her_o iniquity_n lest_o they_o be_v partaker_n of_o her_o plague_n be_v it_o not_o a_o blessing_n to_o keep_v their_o soul_n undefiled_a from_o antichrist_n pollutious_a and_o to_o be_v deliver_v from_o judgement_n due_a thereunto_o be_v it_o not_o a_o great_a blessing_n for_o lot_n to_o be_v fore_o tell_v and_o deliver_v out_o of_o the_o destruction_n of_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n so_o be_v it_o not_o a_o singular_a blessing_n and_o mercy_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v deliver_v and_o free_v from_o the_o divine_a wrath_n that_o be_v go_v out_o against_o spiritual_a or_o mystical_a babylon_n 2._o be_v it_o not_o a_o great_a privilege_n and_o blessing_n to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n to_o know_v the_o catastrophe_n and_o result_n of_o all_o their_o trouble_n and_o to_o have_v a_o sure_a word_n of_o prophecy_n for_o their_o deliverance_n from_o the_o oppression_n and_o cruelty_n of_o their_o enemy_n and_o that_o they_o shall_v one_o day_n triumph_v over_o they_o to_o their_o utter_a ruin_n and_o destruction_n be_v not_o this_o able_a to_o beat_v up_o their_o spirit_n in_o all_o their_o fiery_a trial_n to_o see_v that_o their_o deliverance_n draw_v nigh_o be_v it_o not_o a_o blessing_n in_o the_o day_n of_o affliction_n in_o the_o day_n of_o mourning_n to_o be_v keep_v faithful_a witness_n unto_o our_o god_n and_o though_o satan_n and_o his_o deputized_a antichrist_n have_v power_n over_o we_o to_o overcome_v and_o afflict_v we_o yet_o we_o be_v these_o that_o be_v seal_v in_o the_o forehead_n with_o the_o mark_n of_o the_o lamb_n 3._o be_v it_o not_o a_o blessing_n to_o know_v that_o antichrist_n reign_n be_v but_o 42._o month_n a_o certain_a definite_a time_n which_o be_v now_o draw_v to_o its_o period_n be_v it_o not_o a_o blessing_n to_o know_v that_o the_o time_n of_o the_o woman_n in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o the_o witness_n mourn_v in_o sackcloth_n the_o tread_v down_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o be_v but_o for_o 1260._o day_n which_o term_n be_v also_o near_o expire_a be_v it_o not_o a_o great_a blessing_n after_o all_o the_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n of_o the_o church_n and_o saint_n here_o on_o earth_n to_o be_v assure_v that_o christ_n their_o head_n with_o myriad_o of_o his_o angel_n and_o saint_n depart_v will_v appear_v to_o the_o final_a destroy_n of_o all_o their_o enemy_n and_o give_v they_o peace_n and_o rest_n cause_v they_o to_o reign_v on_o earth_n last_o be_v it_o not_o a_o great_a blessing_n to_o have_v a_o promise_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n and_o communion_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o glorify_a saint_n here_o on_o earth_n for_o a_o thousand_o year_n when_o mortality_n shall_v put_v on_o immortality_n when_o we_o shall_v see_v and_o know_v all_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n as_o we_o be_v see_v and_o know_v when_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a be_v come_v that_o which_o be_v imperfect_a shall_v be_v do_v away_o when_o we_o shall_v see_v no_o long_o in_o a_o glass_n through_o weak_a and_o dark_a ordinance_n but_o then_o we_o shall_v see_v face_n to_o face_n when_o all_o our_o ordinance_n will_v be_v in_o a_o high_a and_o more_o spiritual_a key_n when_o sorrow_n sin_n and_o death_n shall_v be_v swallow_v up_o of_o victory_n when_o we_o shall_v walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n the_o lamb_n wife_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n wherein_o dwell_v true_a righteousness_n and_o shall_v all_o those_o thing_n be_v discover_v in_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n with_o a_o promise_n thereof_o and_o of_o blessedness_n to_o all_o those_o that_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n and_o yet_o will_v any_o be_v so_o stupid_a to_o conclude_v that_o this_o be_v a_o dry_a useless_a book_n that_o treat_v of_o christianity_n from_o its_o very_a rise_n to_o the_o consummation_n thereof_o full_o fraught_v with_o abundance_n of_o useful_a observation_n to_o steer_v our_o foot_n aright_o in_o our_o militant_a course_n here_o until_o we_o shall_v all_o come_v to_o the_o full_a stature_n of_o christ_n and_o whereas_o some_o say_v it_o be_v a_o most_o difficult_a book_n to_o interpret_v and_o that_o many_o able_a expositor_n have_v come_v off_o with_o loss_n in_o their_o study_n about_o it_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o all_o thing_n to_o the_o sluggard_n indeed_o be_v difficult_a the_o pith_n marrow_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v out_o by_o a_o coursary_n read_v thereof_o it_o be_v not_o obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n and_o this_o be_v intimate_v in_o that_o 3._o vers_fw-la of_o chap._n 1._o wherein_o be_v observable_a that_o blessedness_n be_v entail_v to_o read_v hear_v and_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o the_o prophecy_n it_o be_v not_o a_o bare_a read_n or_o hear_v that_o will_v entitle_v to_o this_o blessedness_n but_o it_o must_v be_v keep_v treasure_v up_o ponder_v and_o digest_v before_o it_o will_v produce_v the_o happy_a fruit_n of_o blessedness_n indeed_o there_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o depth_n for_o elephant_n to_o swim_v in_o as_o well_o as_o shallows_o for_o lamb_n to_o wade_v through_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o god_n have_v dispense_v various_a gift_n and_o ability_n in_o his_o saint_n so_o god_n have_v sow_v in_o his_o word_n several_a measure_n of_o truth_n suitable_a thereunto_o none_o may_v complain_v for_o want_v to_o exercise_v their_o spirit_n in_o the_o weak_a may_v see_v so_o much_o as_o shall_v make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o the_o high_a capacity_n can_v attain_v no_o more_o and_o when_o it_o have_v do_v all_o yet_o it_o must_v needs_o confess_v that_o it_o be_v not_o omniscient_a but_o that_o there_o be_v some_o mystery_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o will_v be_v still_o mystery_n unto_o it_o until_o the_o day_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n shall_v come_v wherein_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o all_o thing_n it_o be_v a_o say_n of_o prosper_v parvuli_fw-la magni_fw-la fortes_fw-la infirmi_fw-la habent_fw-la in_o scripture_n unde_fw-la alantur_fw-la &_o satientur_fw-la no_o age_n so_o young_a which_o scripture_n do_v not_o fit_a there_o be_v milk_n for_o babe_n and_o meat_n for_o strong_a wit_n 2._o it_o be_v difficult_a to_o all_o such_o that_o be_v not_o verse_v in_o the_o old_a and_o modern_a roman_a history_n not_o know_v how_o to_o apply_v the_o figure_n and_o representation_n of_o this_o prophecy_n to_o their_o several_a time_n and_o period_n neither_o know_v how_o to_o distinguish_v the_o time_n of_o the_o revolution_n and_o change_n but_o confound_v several_a thing_n speak_v of_o diverse_a state_n one_o with_o another_o not_o observe_v where_o mention_n be_v make_v of_o the_o secular_a or_o civil_a state_n and_o whereof_o the_o ecclesiastic_a conceive_v that_o the_o revelation_n be_v as_o a_o continue_a history_n or_o relation_n of_o event_n succeed_v one_o another_o in_o the_o same_o order_n and_o cause_n as_o the_o vision_n be_v reveil_v in_o and_o for_o want_v of_o due_a observation_n herein_o many_o interpreter_n have_v stumble_v and_o so_o confound_v pervert_v and_o disturb_v the_o whole_a method_n and_o harmony_n of_o the_o revelation_n in_o make_v several_a epact_n and_o period_n of_o time_n so_o place_v thing_n which_o must_v come_v to_o pass_v after_o the_o destruction_n of_o babylon_n and_o the_o beast_n before_o it_o whereas_o the_o passage_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v so_o relate_v one_o to_o the_o other_o though_o write_v in_o order_n one_o after_o another_o that_o many_o thereof_o do_v concur_v in_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n so_o that_o he_o that_o go_v about_o to_o describe_v they_o in_o order_n of_o time_n as_o they_o lie_v in_o the_o book_n in_o order_n of_o place_n without_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o methd_v oharmony_n and_o connexion_n which_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o all_o the_o passage_n of_o this_o book_n fall_v under_o the_o same_o syncronisme_n or_o concurrency_n of_o time_n indeed_o to_o such_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n must_v needs_o remain_v full_a of_o difficulty_n mystery_n and_o obscurity_n and_o so_o the_o whole_a order_n of_o the_o revelation_n together_o with_o themselves_o be_v render_v in-extricable_a and_o confound_v whereas_o indeed_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o this_o book_n as_o a_o wise_a and_o well_o verse_v historian_n be_v wont_a to_o do_v in_o the_o description_n of_o
in_o himself_o be_v too_o weak_a for_o such_o a_o work_n may_v be_v fit_v in_o some_o measure_n from_o thyself_o who_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o to_o who_o the_o revelation_n of_o all_o thing_n be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n because_o thou_o be_v find_v worthy_a o_o do_v thou_o enlighten_v his_o mind_n with_o true_a light_n from_o above_o and_o remove_v all_o impediment_n his_o iniquity_n out_o of_o thy_o sight_n by_o the_o wash_n of_o thy_o own_o blood_n than_o thou_o may_v discover_v thy_o mind_n unto_o thy_o poor_a servant_n be_v hallow_v by_o thyself_o to_o a_o fruitful_a reception_n thereof_o grant_v o_o christ_n that_o by_o thy_o favour_n and_o the_o guidance_n of_o thy_o good_a spirit_n he_o may_v diligent_o consider_v the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n and_o that_o unto_o sobriety_n and_o declare_v it_o forth_o unto_o other_o that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n may_v receive_v some_o advantage_n by_o he_o and_o if_o thy_o servant_n o_o lord_n have_v herein_o through_o weakness_n build_v any_o hay_n and_o stubble_n upon_o thy_o precious_a structure_n o_o let_v it_o be_v consume_v but_o so_o as_o that_o thy_o servant_n may_v be_v save_v in_o the_o great_a day_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n almighty_a but_o if_o any_o of_o thou_o receive_v good_a hereby_o to_o thou_o for_o it_o as_o most_o due_a which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v the_o almighty_a be_v praise_n glory_n and_o dominion_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n a_o catalogue_n of_o diverse_a question_n in_o this_o treatise_n discuss_v whether_o this_o book_n of_o revelation_n be_v of_o divine_a authority_n pag._n 1_o whether_o john_n the_o divine_a the_o subordinate_a author_n thereof_o be_v the_o same_o with_o john_n the_o apostle_n and_o evangelist_n or_o some_o other_o person_n 5_o whether_o the_o title_n of_o this_o book_n viz._n the_o revelation_n of_o john_n the_o divine_a be_v john_n own_a or_o some_o other_o person_n 7_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o christian_a wish_n or_o salutation_n grace_n and_o peace_n unto_o you_o 19_o how_o come_v john_n to_o wish_v grace_n and_o peace_n to_o the_o church_n whilst_o be_v church_n of_o christ_n they_o have_v this_o grace_n and_o peace_n aforehand_o 19_o whether_o christ_n shall_v have_v two_o last_o come_n to_o judgement_n 25_o whether_o christian_n when_o they_o be_v call_v unto_o it_o be_v bind_v in_o duty_n to_o suffer_v for_o the_o profession_n of_o all_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n 31_o and_o 112_o whether_o the_o lord_n day_n mention_v rev._n 1.10_o wherein_o john_n receive_v his_o vision_n be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n or_o not_o 33_o how_o shall_v we_o know_v divine_a rapture_n ecstasy_n or_o vision_n from_o diabolical_a the_o devil_n be_v god_n ape_n herein_o 34_o do_v not_o the_o devil_n often_o foretell_v the_o truth_n of_o event_n 37_o do_v not_o satan_n tell_v saul_n in_o that_o apparition_n of_o samuel_n in_o the_o 1_o sam._n 28_o 19_o that_o he_o shall_v be_v deliver_v with_o all_o his_o host_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o philistine_n and_o that_o he_o and_o his_o son_n on_o the_o morrow_n shall_v be_v all_o with_o samuel_n that_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v not_o that_o prediction_n true_o fullfil_v 38_o whether_o that_o samuel_n which_o the_o witch_n of_o endor_n raise_v unto_o saul_n be_v the_o true_a prophet_n samuel_n or_o the_o devil_n in_o his_o shape_n and_o likeness_n or_o otherwise_o some_o cozen_a consort_n and_o confederate_n of_o the_o cozen_a pythonist_n 38_o 39_o whether_o christ_n according_a to_o his_o manhood_n appear_v unto_o john_n rev._n 1_o 13._o when_o he_o appear_v to_o he_o as_o one_o like_a unto_o the_o son_n of_o man_n 43_o whether_o there_o can_v be_v any_o separation_n between_o the_o deity_n and_o manhood_n of_o christ_n 44_o whether_o the_o two_o edge_a sword_n that_o proceed_v out_o of_o christ_n mouth_n be_v to_o be_v only_o spiritual_o understand_v and_o not_o matterial_o also_o 50_o 51_o whether_o the_o bless_a heavenly_a spirit_n and_o angel_n or_o glorify_a person_n after_o the_o resurrection_n do_v or_o shall_v see_v the_o essential_a glory_n of_o god_n 53_o do_v not_o angel_n see_v god_n face_n in_o heaven_n and_o do_v not_o moses_n and_o jacob_n see_v god_n and_o talk_v with_o he_o face_n to_o face_n 54._o and_o do_v not_o divine_n hold_v that_o in_o heaven_n we_o enjoy_v the_o beatifical_a vision_n 55_o whether_o christ_n according_a to_o his_o divine_a nature_n be_v impassable_a 58_o why_o john_n be_v command_v particular_o to_o write_v to_o each_o church_n of_o the_o seven_o apart_o 68_o whether_o a_o sound_a church_n may_v censure_v a_o corrupt_a church_n 69_o 70_o whether_o by_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v mean_v the_o metropolitan_a over_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n of_o ephesus_n and_o whether_o the_o angel_n of_o ephesus_n be_v the_o metropolitan_a over_o the_o other_o six_o sister_n church_n 71_o whether_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v to_o be_v interpret_v the_o presbytery_n 72_o what_o give_v unto_o our_o work_n the_o denomination_n of_o good_a work_n and_o whether_o any_o of_o our_o work_n be_v simple_o and_o strict_o to_o be_v call_v good_a and_o perfect_a 79_o and_o 80_o in_o who_o lie_v the_o power_n to_o try_v judge_n and_o examine_v false_a apostle_n false_a teacher_n and_o their_o doctrine_n 83_o and_o 196_o whether_o the_o jurisdiction_n of_o the_o church_n be_v above_o the_o word_n 84_o whether_o wicked_a person_n or_o unsound_a in_o the_o faith_n be_v to_o be_v admit_v or_o be_v admit_v to_o be_v tolerate_v in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n 85_o 86_o etc._n etc._n whether_o any_o else_o beside_o true_a and_o real_a saint_n or_o believer_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n be_v to_o be_v admit_v into_o church_n fellowship_n 86_o 87_o whether_o the_o judicial_n or_o ceremonial_n of_o moses_n be_v any_o foundation_n for_o a_o gospel_n ordinance_n 88_o 89_o whether_o baptism_n be_v administer_v with_o best_a satisfaction_n of_o conscience_n upon_o infant_n 88_o whether_o it_o must_v be_v true_a justify_n faith_n or_o dogmatical_a only_o that_o entitle_v to_o baptism_n 90_o 91_o whether_o the_o apostolical_a office_n be_v cease_v to_o the_o church_n or_o not_o and_o whether_o it_o be_v only_o tie_v unto_o the_o first_o twelve_o 92_o 93_o 94_o 95_o whether_o the_o first_o 12_o apostle_n be_v but_o of_o equal_a authority_n with_o other_o ordinary_a officer_n as_o pastor_n elder_n etc._n etc._n 95_o whether_o the_o gift_n of_o miracle_n do_v continue_v unto_o the_o church_n 97_o how_o shall_v we_o know_v or_o try_v false_a apostle_n from_o the_o true_a 101_o 102_o etc._n etc._n to_o what_o church_n shall_v one_o repair_v to_o receive_v a_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n call_v for_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n 105_o 106_o etc._n etc._n how_o shall_v the_o first_o reformer_n have_v a_o right_a call_n to_o the_o ministry_n if_o they_o â—_o have_v it_o not_o from_o rome_n 108_o whether_o the_o presbytery_n of_o england_n have_v a_o right_a call_n from_o the_o late_a bishop_n as_o true_a presbyter_n 110_o whether_o believer_n complaint_n for_o want_n of_o will_n to_o repent_v be_v just_a or_o not_o 118_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o legal_a teach_v to_o denounce_v wrath_n and_o judgement_n on_o non-amendment_n or_o for_o want_n of_o repentance_n 119_o whether_o repentance_n be_v to_o be_v join_v to_o christ_n in_o some_o causality_n unto_o salvation_n or_o joint_o with_o he_o somewhat_o subordinate_a to_o that_o great_a end_n 120_o and_o whether_o faith_n and_o repentance_n be_v the_o condiiion_n proper_o so_o take_v of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n 121_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o speak_v unto_o the_o seven_o asian_a church_n 126_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n and_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o paradise_n 130_o whether_o paradise_n and_o heaven_n above_o be_v all_o one_o 131_o whether_o god_n tempt_v man_n and_o whether_o he_o tempt_v unto_o evil_n or_o sin_n 143_o do_v not_o many_o scripture_n say_v that_o god_n tempt_v man_n 144_o whether_o god_n have_v a_o hand_n or_o efficiency_n in_o and_o about_o sin_n 146_o why_o do_v god_n often_o afflict_v his_o own_o child_n with_o so_o sharp_a tribulation_n and_o whether_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n can_v be_v vindicate_v in_o that_o particular_a 149_o whether_o great_a corruption_n nullify_v a_o church_n 173_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o full_a reformation_n can_v be_v attain_v 171_o 172_o how_o be_v god_n justice_n vindicate_v if_o he_o smite_v godly_a and_o ungodly_a together_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a among_o they_o 179_o whether_o christ_n receive_v now_o by_o faith_n to_o justification_n and_o absolution_n be_v the_o hide_a manna_n and_o white_a stone_n promise_v rev._n 2.17_o to_o
and_o some_o other_o of_o suspect_a credit_n and_o of_o obscure_a note_n as_o dorotheus_n dionysius_n eusebius_n caius_n do_v oppugn_v it_o yet_o epiphanius_n be_v so_o passionate_a friend_n to_o it_o that_o he_o reckon_v they_o among_o heretic_n that_o do_v reject_v it_o and_o justin_n martyr_n and_o ireneus_fw-la of_o sound_a judgement_n and_o of_o singular_a piety_n do_v not_o only_o approve_v this_o book_n as_o canonical_a but_o write_v commentary_n on_o it_o 2._o whatsoever_o that_o caius_n be_v that_o father_n the_o apocalypse_v on_o cerinthus_n on_o who_o report_n all_o his_o follower_n be_v mislead_v yet_o the_o relation_n itself_o hold_v not_o any_o resemblance_n of_o truth_n for_o ireneus_fw-la tertullian_n and_o epiphanius_n who_o write_v very_o large_o of_o the_o heresy_n of_o cerinthus_n and_o his_o successor_n yet_o never_o mention_n that_o he_o hold_v this_o opinion_n of_o chiliasme_n or_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n on_o earth_n which_o they_o can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a of_o therefore_o this_o story_n of_o caius_n concern_v he_o and_o he_o apocalypse_v be_v apocryphal_a and_o a_o mere_a figment_n on_o purpose_n devise_v by_o the_o adversary_n to_o lessen_v the_o authority_n of_o this_o book_n see_v more_o at_o large_a hereof_o in_o d._n homes_n lib._n 3._o chap._n 3._o sect_n 3._o further_o if_o cerinthus_n be_v the_o author_n of_o this_o book_n doubtless_o he_o will_v have_v besprinkle_v it_o with_o some_o other_o of_o his_o error_n that_o be_v peculiar_a to_o he_o as_o that_o of_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n by_o angel_n deny_v of_o the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n and_o affirm_v his_o generation_n to_o be_v only_o of_o the_o seed_n of_o joseph_n and_o mary_n as_o be_v testify_v by_o m._n baxter_n book_n of_o infidelity_n treat_v of_o the_o heresy_n of_o cerinthus_n carpocrates_n and_o their_o follower_n page_z 129._o etc._n etc._n but_o in_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n there_o be_v not_o one_o word_n to_o this_o purpose_n but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a strong_o confirm_v in_o many_o place_n thereof_o as_o the_o subsequent_a discourse_n thereon_o will_v manifest_v and_o last_o if_o it_o be_v grant_v that_o cerinthus_n hold_v and_o expect_v a_o riotous_a and_o luxuriant_a millenary_a which_o be_v now_o disprove_v yet_o this_o of_o the_o apocalypse_v have_v not_o the_o least_o intimation_n thereof_o but_o of_o a_o millenary_a of_o rest_n and_o joy_n in_o a_o high_a and_o more_o spiritual_a key_n then_o ever_o the_o church_n enjoy_v on_o earth_n heretofore_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o a_o earthly_a sensual_a reign_n and_o to_o reign_v on_o earth_n saint_n may_v be_v on_o earth_n and_o yet_o be_v most_o spiritual_a so_o they_o may_v have_v a_o kingdom_n here_o on_o earth_n and_o yet_o a_o most_o spiritualised_a and_o heavenly_a one_o which_o be_v full_o confirm_v in_o the_o 21_o and_o 22_o chapter_n of_o this_o book_n and_o so_o i_o have_v answer_v the_o first_o ground_n of_o suspect_v the_o divine_a authority_n of_o this_o apocalypse_v second_o hierome_n the_o great_a antagonist_n of_o this_o book_n write_v that_o many_o learned_a man_n speak_v very_o sharp_o against_o this_o book_n and_o the_o whole_a matter_n thereof_o as_o not_o become_v the_o gravity_n of_o a_o apostle_n be_v only_o a_o common_a history_n of_o thing_n shadow_v under_o dark_a figure_n and_o hard_a kind_n of_o speech_n i_o answer_v rather_o it_o become_v and_o savour_v the_o excellency_n and_o authority_n of_o a_o apostle_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o then_o seven_o famous_a church_n of_o lesser_a asia_n carry_v in_o it_o all_o along_o the_o spirit_n of_o prophecy_n and_o the_o very_a step_n sentence_n and_o figure_n of_o the_o old_a prophet_n be_v full_a of_o pregnant_a testimony_n of_o the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o this_o perfect_a of_o the_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o salvation_n by_o his_o continual_a intercession_n and_o providential_a act_n of_o gubernation_n of_o his_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n i_o confess_v the_o book_n in_o the_o figure_n and_o expression_n thereof_o be_v dark_a and_o mysterious_a but_o that_o be_v not_o strange_a in_o prophetical_a writing_n as_o in_o daniel_n ezekiel_n etc._n etc._n it_o seem_v good_a to_o god_n to_o set_v we_o on_o diligence_n to_o inquire_v into_o the_o deal_n of_o god_n with_o his_o church_n and_o people_n and_o not_o to_o overslip_a the_o judgement_n of_o god_n providence_n which_o be_v reserve_v in_o god_n infinite_a wisdom_n unto_o their_o appoint_a time_n of_o discovery_n that_o from_o generation_n to_o generation_n his_o people_n and_o church_n may_v be_v comfort_v and_o support_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o all_o three_o dionysius_n aforesaid_a bishop_n of_o alexandria_n reason_n very_o slight_o against_o the_o divine_a authority_n of_o this_o book_n when_o he_o say_v that_o it_o do_v not_o suit_n with_o the_o gravity_n of_o a_o apostle_n to_o cast_v up_o so_o oft_o his_o own_o name_n since_o in_o his_o gospel_n he_o never_o name_v himself_o but_o only_o point_v it_o out_o by_o some_o modest_a mark_n as_o these_o the_o disciple_n who_o jesus_n love_v but_o here_o in_o this_o book_n in_o his_o vision_n and_o conference_n with_o the_o angel_n he_o have_v never_o do_v with_o these_o kind_n of_o word_n i_o john_n this_o reason_n move_v dionysius_n to_o think_v that_o this_o book_n be_v rather_o set_v out_o by_o some_o other_o in_o his_o name_n then_o by_o himself_o i_o answer_v this_o opposition_n be_v but_o weak_a for_o he_o that_o write_v a_o history_n or_o matter_n of_o doctrine_n as_o the_o gospel_n be_v mix_v of_o both_o he_o need_v not_o often_o insert_v his_o own_o name_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o depend_v on_o its_o present_a verity_n and_o other_o apparent_a circumstance_n witness_v unto_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o miracle_n and_o its_o operation_n on_o the_o heart_n of_o believer_n but_o it_o be_v far_o otherwise_o with_o the_o writer_n of_o prophecy_n for_o that_o receive_v authority_n by_o the_o author_n who_o be_v know_v to_o be_v a_o prophet_n for_o in_o every_o prophecy_n that_o foretell_v thing_n to_o come_v we_o must_v inquire_v first_o who_o reveal_v it_o and_o then_o to_o who_o it_o be_v reveal_v that_o the_o person_n be_v know_v to_o be_v a_o prophet_n and_o to_o have_v divine_a revelation_n we_o may_v give_v credit_n to_o it_o for_o otherwise_o who_o will_v give_v credence_n or_o faith_n to_o any_o of_o the_o prophetical_a prediction_n or_o book_n of_o the_o prophet_n before_o they_o see_v they_o accomplish_v and_o fulfil_v as_o to_o instance_n in_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n who_o make_v mention_n of_o his_o name_n at_o least_o a_o hundred_o time_n and_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n how_o oft_o do_v he_o repeat_v these_o word_n isaiah_n the_o son_n of_o amos_n and_o in_o daniel_n prophecy_n we_o shall_v find_v his_o name_n more_o than_o threescore_o time_n repeat_v yea_o you_o shall_v find_v i_o daniel_n about_o nine_o time_n from_o the_o seven_o to_o the_o ten_o chapter_n and_o paul_n when_o his_o apostleship_n be_v call_v in_o question_n by_o some_o false_a brethren_n and_o to_o show_v the_o excellency_n of_o his_o ministry_n how_o often_o shall_v you_o read_v i_o paul_n a_o apostle_n not_o of_o man_n nor_o by_o man_n but_o of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o why_o shall_v it_o be_v account_v strange_a when_o john_n mention_n not_o his_o name_n above_o five_o time_n in_o this_o whole_a book_n and_o with_o that_o modesty_n that_o none_o may_v doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o prophecy_n have_v wipe_v off_o the_o objection_n that_o have_v cast_v jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n on_o these_o divine_a revelation_n i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o place_n endeavour_n to_o clear_v the_o divine_a authority_n thereof_o and_o add_v some_o testimony_n for_o that_o end_n and_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o be_v clear_v there_o be_v no_o true_a christian_n but_o will_n receive_v this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n but_o as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n the_o testimony_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n either_o from_o without_o or_o second_o within_o the_o say_a book_n those_o from_o without_o be_v the_o general_a consent_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o age_n except_v in_o the_o heat_n of_o contest_v among_o some_o violent_a person_n to_o the_o receive_n of_o they_o into_o the_o canon_n the_o counsel_n of_o laodicea_n the_o three_o council_n of_o carthage_n and_o the_o council_n of_o toletan_n 5._o cap._n 16._o decree_v it_o to_o be_v receive_v as_o holy_a and_o divine_a scripture_n second_o it_o be_v so_o receive_v by_o most_o of_o the_o ancient_a orthodox_n father_n as_o justin_n martyr_n tertullian_n cyril_n epiphanius_n lactantius_n ireneus_fw-la augustine_n and_o many_o other_o and_o so_o this_o book_n be_v often_o quote_v by_o they_o as_o of_o divine_a authority_n in_o their_o writing_n i_o shall_v
evident_a that_o he_o appoint_v pastor_n and_o elder_n and_o other_o officer_n over_o those_o church_n by_o his_o apostolical_a authority_n as_o paul_n and_o other_o apostle_n have_v do_v in_o their_o respective_a province_n and_o this_o be_v somewhat_o clear_a in_o that_o he_o receive_v from_o god_n those_o several_a preadmonishment_n which_o he_o be_v command_v to_o write_v and_o to_o deliver_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o those_o church_n as_o unto_o his_o peculiar_a charge_n and_o child_n beget_v of_o he_o in_o the_o lord_n who_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o emperor_n domitian_n about_o the_o year_n of_o christ_n 84._o wherein_o fall_v the_o second_o great_a persecution_n against_o the_o christian_n john_n be_v force_v and_o banish_v from_o his_o church_n at_o ephesus_n to_o pathmos_n a_o mediterranean_a island_n and_o one_o of_o those_o call_v cyclades_n wherein_o he_o himself_o testify_v cap._n 1._o 9_o that_o he_o receive_v his_o revelation_n during_o the_o time_n of_o his_o banishment_n last_o i_o conceive_v the_o title_n of_o this_o book_n the_o revelation_n of_o john_n the_o divine_a to_o be_v a_o superadded_a title_n and_o not_o john_n own_a and_o yet_o of_o great_a antiquity_n give_v it_o by_o some_o primitive_a well-meaning_a christian_n my_o reason_n for_o this_o opinion_n be_v that_o the_o title_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o divine_a be_v not_o peculiar_a to_o john_n more_o than_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n at_o the_o time_n of_o his_o writing_n the_o revelation_n it_o be_v write_v some_o year_n before_o his_o gospel_n but_o his_o gospel_n be_v write_v after_o his_o return_n from_o banishment_n as_o eusebius_n prideaux_n history_n pag_n 27._o and_o other_o ecclesiastic_a writer_n testify_v and_o for_o write_v so_o divine_o of_o the_o word_n which_o be_v god_n in_o his_o gospel_n as_o be_v declare_v he_o just_o acquire_v the_o title_n of_o john_n the_o divine_a and_o not_o for_o the_o revelation_n which_o be_v write_v before_o it_o 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general_a that_o i_o may_v not_o preoccupy_v my_o subsequent_a discourse_n this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v a_o book_n of_o prophecy_n wherein_o be_v a_o discovery_n of_o all_o such_o notable_a event_n and_o alteration_n as_o shall_v happen_v to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o her_o enemy_n from_o her_o first_o rise_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o all_o set_v out_o and_o describe_v in_o hyerogliphique_a and_o prophetical_a vision_n which_o christ_n have_v signify_v unto_o his_o servant_n john_n and_o it_o contain_v in_o it_o two_o general_a part_n 1._o a_o admonitory_a epistle_n which_o be_v direct_v to_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n minor_a which_o be_v the_o subject_n of_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n 2._o a_o general_a discourse_n of_o all_o the_o alteration_n which_o general_o do_v concern_v or_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n from_o john_n time_n to_o the_o latter_a day_n which_o be_v comprise_v from_o the_o four_o chapter_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o book_n 1._o in_o the_o epistle_n there_o be_v to_o be_v take_v notice_n as_o in_o the_o preface_n thereof_o first_o the_o immediate_a author_n from_o who_o this_o admonition_n come_v and_o the_o whole_a of_o the_o revelation_n and_o that_o be_v jesus_n christ_n cap_n 1._o 1._o and_o 11._o second_o to_o who_o it_o be_v give_v and_o deliver_v and_o that_o be_v john_n vers_fw-la 9_o three_o to_o who_o it_o be_v send_v and_o direct_v and_o that_o be_v particular_o to_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o ephesus_n smyrna_n pergamus_n thyatira_n to_o sardis_n philadelphia_n and_o laodicea_n cap._n 1._o v._n 11._o and_o cap._n 2._o &_o 3._o throughout_o four_o in_o this_o monitory_a epistle_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v what_o fault_n and_o error_n they_o be_v admonish_v and_o reprove_v of_o five_o the_o threat_n lay_v out_o against_o they_o for_o non-amendment_n six_o and_o last_o the_o approbation_n of_o their_o well-doing_n and_o of_o their_o faith_n with_o a_o exhortation_n unto_o perseverance_n therein_o â—_o in_o the_o second_o general_a part_n or_o discourse_n concern_v the_o great_a alteration_n that_o happen_v to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o its_o adversary_n these_o most_o remarkable_a thing_n offer_v themselves_o to_o the_o observant_a eye_n 1._o a_o historical_a relation_n under_o the_o vision_n of_o seven_o seal_a book_n or_o seal_v prophecy_n in_o the_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7_o and_o 8_o chapter_n which_o principal_o concern_v the_o various_a success_n combustion_n confusion_n and_o ruin_n of_o the_o heathenish_a roman_a empire_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o high_a confusion_n yet_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o providential_a preservation_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n under_o it_o hot_a persecution_n and_o though_o mighty_o conspire_v its_o ruin_n yet_o preserve_v fence_a and_o seal_v by_o god_n 2._o in_o part_n of_o the_o eight_o and_o in_o the_o whole_a nine_o chapter_n under_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o seven_o trumpet_n there_o be_v a_o alarm_n sound_v forth_o to_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o then_o degenerate_v roman_a christian_n empire_n by_o a_o sevenfold_a order_n of_o plague_n the_o four_o first_o be_v not_o so_o terrible_a as_o the_o three_o last_o be_v entitle_v the_o three_o wo-trumpet_n 3._o you_o may_v observe_v as_o it_o be_v a_o digression_n in_o the_o pprophecy_n after_o the_o plague_n of_o the_o sixth_o be_v the_o second_o wo-trumpet_n be_v pour_v out_o in_o the_o nine_o chapter_n and_o the_o description_n of_o the_o seven_o and_o last_o wo-trumpet_n set_v off_o to_o another_o place_n where_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o spirit_n find_v it_o more_o convenient_o to_o refer_v it_o and_o in_o the_o ten_o chapter_n to_o fall_v upon_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o the_o little_a book_n which_o be_v as_o a_o preface_n and_o entrance_n unto_o the_o pprophecy_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o event_n and_o destiny_n that_o shall_v befall_v to_o christ_n church_n until_o the_o end_n 4._o in_o the_o eleven_o chapter_n you_o may_v observe_v how_o therein_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a visible_a and_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o state_n and_o progress_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n even_o from_o the_o time_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n unto_o the_o late_a day_n and_o you_o may_v far_o observe_v that_o this_o vision_n of_o the_o open_a book_n which_o principal_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o eleven_o chapter_n do_v most_o necessary_o concur_v and_o connex_v with_o all_o other_o the_o vision_n and_o prophecy_n of_o the_o revelation_n concern_v the_o secular_a power_n under_o the_o seal_n and_o trumpet_n for_o both_o do_v concur_v together_o though_o under_o several_a character_n and_o vision_n 5._o in_o the_o twelve_o chapter_n there_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o retrogranation_n to_o a_o more_o particular_a ample_a and_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o persecute_a and_o afflict_a state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n under_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o great_a red_a dragon_n concur_v with_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o the_o six_o seal_n under_o the_o idolatrous_a heathenish_a roman_a empire_n until_o she_o have_v bring_v forth_o her_o man-child_n and_o the_o dragon_n cast_v down_o and_o destroy_v yet_o she_o be_v not_o so_o free_v from_o her_o afflict_a state_n but_o she_o be_v glad_a to_o fly_v into_o the_o wilderness_n where_o the_o dragon_n send_v his_o flood_n after_o she_o of_o persecution_n beside_o error_n and_o heresy_n to_o overwhelm_v she_o if_o he_o can_v 6._o you_o may_v observe_v in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o thirteen_o chapter_n the_o dragon_n be_v dethrone_v how_o he_o substitute_n in_o his_o room_n the_o ten_o horn_a beast_n the_o secular_a roman_a empire_n divide_v into_o ten_o kingdom_n which_o persecute_v the_o woman_n be_v enter_v into_o the_o wilderness_n and_o do_v the_o work_n of_o the_o dragon_n and_o of_o the_o former_a heathenish_a empire_n against_o she_o yet_o that_o be_v not_o all_o there_o be_v
another_o two_o horn_a beast_n joint_o rage_v and_o reign_v with_o the_o former_a at_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n which_o do_v as_o much_o mischief_n to_o she_o as_o that_o secular_a beast_n itself_o do_v be_v the_o ecclesiastic_a and_o pseudo-prophetical_a beast_n or_o antichrist_n itself_o who_o be_v the_o former_a beast_n great_a chaplain_n prophet_n and_o vicar_n general_a who_o under_o pretence_n of_o christ_n and_o christian_a religion_n have_v two_o horn_n like_o a_o lamb_n yet_o exercise_v the_o cruelty_n of_o the_o dragon_n and_o set_v up_o again_o other_o under_o specious_a title_n the_o late_a abolish_v heathenish_a idolatry_n and_o tyrannous_a persecute_v government_n like_o that_o of_o the_o dragon_n and_o so_o heal_v the_o wound_n give_v to_o the_o first_o beast_n this_o beast_n token_n quality_n and_o character_n be_v herein_o describe_v that_o they_o that_o have_v wisdom_n may_v know_v and_o shun_v they_o 7._o in_o the_o fourteen_o chapter_n be_v observable_a how_o during_o the_o reign_n of_o this_o antichristian_a beast_n the_o faithful_a follower_n of_o the_o lamb_n by_o their_o continual_a publish_n of_o the_o sincere_a gospel_n of_o christ_n they_o bring_v ruin_n and_o desolation_n upon_o spiritual_a or_o mystical_a babylon_n the_o antichristian_a state_n and_o seat_n set_v forth_o under_o the_o cry_n of_o the_o three_o angel_n but_o more_o particular_o in_o the_o 15_o and_o 16_o chapter_n in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o vial_n and_o the_o effusion_n thereof_o be_v the_o particular_a gradual_a and_o final_a ruin_n of_o the_o anti-christian_n beast_n with_o all_o the_o church_n enemy_n more_o full_o set_v forth_o and_o manifest_v at_o the_o pour_v out_o whereof_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v free_v and_o deliver_v from_o all_o anti-christs_a oppression_n and_o idolatrous_a pollution_n she_o sing_v her_o triumphant_a song_n the_o song_n of_o moses_n 8._o in_o the_o seventeen_o chapter_n that_o those_o precedent_n prophetical_a vision_n and_o discovery_n may_v not_o seem_v improbable_a the_o spirit_n itself_o give_v the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o great_a whore_n of_o babylon_n sit_v upon_o a_o scarlet_a colour_a beast_n of_o seven_o head_n and_o ten_o horn_n the_o beast_n be_v the_o roman_a empire_n divide_v under_o ten_o king_n or_o kingdom_n the_o woman_n harlot_n be_v the_o great_a city_n to_o wit_n rome_n itself_o which_o the_o jesuit_n themselves_o can_v deny_v as_o in_o the_o preface_n hereof_o be_v more_o full_o manifest_v which_o reign_v over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o mother_n city_n of_o all_o spiritual_a fornication_n by_o this_o taste_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v interpretation_n it_o plain_o appear_v that_o the_o whole_a book_n of_o vision_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v and_o explain_v historical_o and_o that_o every_o mystery_n open_v other_o to_o the_o discovery_n even_o of_o the_o whole_a 9_o in_o the_o 18_o and_o 19_o chapter_n be_v but_o a_o more_o solemn_a reiterate_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o god_n wrath_n against_o the_o antichristian_a state_n with_o the_o horror_n anguish_n and_o utter_a desolation_n that_o shall_v befall_v it_o and_o all_o the_o church_n combine_v enemy_n whereupon_o the_o church_n be_v now_o free_v from_o all_o danger_n give_v praise_n power_n and_o glory_n unto_o god_n and_o in_o chap._n 20._o enjoy_v that_o happy_a sabbath_n of_o rest_n that_o glorious_a reign_n on_o earth_n for_o a_o thousand_o year_n that_o great_a day_n of_o judgement_n begin_v with_o the_o first_o resurrection_n and_o determine_v with_o the_o last_o and_o universal_a resurrection_n of_o all_o the_o dead_a when_o all_o christ_n enemy_n shall_v be_v take_v and_o cast_v into_o hell_n to_o be_v torment_v for_o evermore_o and_o the_o saint_n translate_v into_o the_o glorify_a estate_n that_o heavenly_a city_n the_o new_a jerusalem_n the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n to_o reign_v with_o he_o for_o ever_o and_o ever_o 10._o in_o 21_o and_o 22_o chapter_n you_o may_v observe_v the_o glorious_a description_n of_o this_o new_a glorify_a church-state_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n set_v forth_o by_o most_o excellent_a metaphor_n and_o figure_n wherein_o all_o spiritual_a delicacy_n in_o a_o far_o high_a pitch_n than_o the_o church_n ever_o yet_o enjoy_v on_o earth_n set_v forth_o unto_o we_o by_o such_o resemblance_n &_o figure_n as_o be_v now_o most_o glorious_a to_o our_o capacity_n and_o fit_a to_o express_v such_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a matter_n whereupon_o follow_v a_o conclusion_n of_o the_o property_n of_o that_o glory_n but_o never_o of_o the_o glory_n itself_o and_o so_o of_o the_o whole_a pprophecy_n with_o a_o confirmation_n of_o the_o verity_n and_o truth_n thereof_o until_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v clear_v and_o premise_v and_o have_v lay_v down_o a_o brief_a view_n of_o the_o scope_n and_o design_n of_o the_o whole_a i_o come_v by_o god_n assistance_n and_o with_o a_o spirit_n of_o sobriety_n and_o with_o awe_n and_o reverence_n to_o open_v in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o mystery_n of_o the_o book_n itself_o remove_v not_o the_o stone_n well_o lay_v the_o revelation_n reveal_v chap._n i._o verse_n 1_o 2_o 3._o ver._n 1._o the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o to_o show_v unto_o his_o servant_n thing_n which_o must_v short_o come_v to_o pass_v and_o he_o send_v and_o signify_v it_o by_o his_o angel_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n ver._n 2._o who_o bare_a record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o all_o thing_n that_o he_o see_v ver._n 3._o bless_a be_v he_o that_o read_v and_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n and_o keep_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v therein_o for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n have_v former_o by_o way_n of_o introduction_n premise_v some_o thing_n and_o among_o the_o rest_n who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o this_o revelation_n and_o that_o be_v jesus_n christ_n and_o therefore_o here_o it_o be_v call_v the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n because_o he_o as_o the_o mediator_n of_o his_o church_n receive_v it_o from_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o father_n in_o a_o unspeakable_a manner_n and_o make_v it_o know_v by_o his_o servant_n john_n for_o the_o good_a and_o comfort_n of_o his_o servant_n the_o church_n and_o saint_n of_o god_n from_o this_o word_n or_o title_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o revelation_n you_o may_v observe_v observe_v 1._o that_o this_o be_v a_o book_n of_o truth_n and_o prophecy_n not_o hide_v and_o seal_v but_o make_v know_v and_o reveal_v for_o the_o comfort_n and_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v a_o revelation_n of_o thing_n and_o passage_n which_o must_v short_o come_v to_o pass_v verse_n 3_o and_o how_o with_o reason_n can_v a_o blessing_n be_v promise_v to_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n if_o it_o be_v not_o know_v what_o be_v to_o be_v read_v hear_v and_o keep_v we_o have_v further_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o it_o cap._n 10._o five_o 8._o that_o the_o little_a book_n be_v a_o open_a book_n wherein_o be_v contain_v the_o great_a revolution_n of_o the_o church_n until_o the_o end_n of_o all_o and_o in_o chap._n 22._o v._n 10._o there_o be_v a_o positive_a command_v not_o to_o seal_v the_o prophecy_n of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n observe_v 2._o from_o the_o author_n of_o the_o revelation_n jesus_n christ_n observe_v that_o all_o good_a thing_n that_o god_n have_v in_o his_o counsel_n determine_v to_o bestow_v and_o give_v unto_o his_o church_n he_o do_v give_v and_o bestow_v they_o in_o by_z and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n he_o be_v the_o lamb_n slay_v from_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n the_o same_o yesterday_o to_o day_n and_o for_o ever_o he_o be_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o the_o keeper_n of_o israel_n of_o old_a and_o be_v the_o same_o to_o we_o for_o ever_o it_o be_v he_o that_o bruise_v the_o serpent_n head_n in_o the_o beginning_n upon_o our_o parent_n first_o transgression_n and_o it_o be_v he_o that_o be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n over_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n now_o and_o for_o ever_o he_o be_v the_o same_o spiritual_a rock_n and_o way_n of_o salvation_n to_o the_o patriarch_n of_o old_a as_o he_o be_v now_o unto_o we_o and_o none_o ever_o do_v or_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o father_n or_o receive_v good_a from_o he_o but_o in_o by_z and_o through_o the_o son_n who_o be_v the_o true_a light_n that_o lighten_v every_o one_o that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n so_o that_o if_o christ_n be_v you_o than_o all_o be_v you_o whether_o thing_n present_a or_o thing_n to_o come_v for_o christ_n be_v god_n 1_o cor._n 3.22_o 23._o last_o
though_o he_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n of_o the_o gentile_n and_o so_o call_v himself_o and_o glory_n in_o the_o privilege_n and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o hebrew_n of_o the_o hebrew_n phil._n 3.5_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o ancient_a hebrew_n race_n and_o lineage_n and_o one_o mighty_a in_o the_o law_n bring_v up_o at_o the_o foot_n of_o gamaliel_n yet_o how_o often_o do_v paul_n inculcate_v in_o his_o epistle_n paul_n the_o servant_n of_o jesus_n christ_n rom._n 1.1_o phil._n 1.1_o etc._n etc._n tit._n 1.1_o etc._n etc._n david_n a_o king_n shall_v rather_o glory_v to_o be_v a_o servant_n unto_o god_n and_o a_o doorkeeper_n in_o his_o house_n then_o to_o live_v in_o the_o court_n of_o prince_n observe_v 3._o if_o the_o high_a in_o repute_n and_o office_n in_o christ_n church_n be_v but_o servant_n than_o not_o lord_n the_o grave_a apostle_n paul_n james_n john_n be_v but_o servant_n and_o will_v be_v account_v but_o as_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n 1_o cor._n 4.1_o and_o not_o as_o lord_n and_o master_n over_o the_o church_n faith_n 2_o cor._n 1.24_o 1_o pet._n 5.3_o christ_n alone_o be_v the_o great_a dictator_n and_o imposer_n of_o tie_v and_o rule_v upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o people_n matth._n 23.13_o the_o great_a apostle_n bishop_n pastor_n or_o elder_a deserve_v but_o the_o honour_n of_o a_o servant_n minister_n or_o steward_n in_o the_o church_n not_o of_o a_o lord_n and_o master_n their_o work_n be_v a_o work_n of_o service_n to_o persuade_v entreat_v convince_v by_o reason_n not_o to_o impose_v dictate_v and_o compel_v in_o short_a they_o can_v impose_v nothing_o as_o necessary_a to_o be_v believe_v do_v and_o practise_v which_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o that_o neither_o in_o their_o own_o name_n or_o for_o their_o own_o end_n for_o they_o be_v servant_n not_o at_o their_o own_o dispose_n but_o at_o the_o call_n beck_n and_o direction_n of_o another_o even_o of_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n there_o be_v also_o somewhat_o to_o be_v consider_v in_o that_o when_o christ_n precise_o set_v down_o and_o take_v notice_n by_o name_n to_o who_o he_o give_v this_o prophecy_n his_o servant_n john_n whence_o note_n 1._o that_o the_o truth_n of_o a_o prophecy_n depend_v much_o for_o credit_n on_o the_o credit_n and_o reputation_n of_o the_o relator_n john_n be_v christ_n belove_a disciple_n most_o high_o illuminate_v in_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o eternal_a word_n of_o god_n john_n be_v a_o prophet_n and_o the_o last_o that_o have_v prophetical_a vision_n to_o a_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o anathema_n go_v forth_o against_o all_o person_n that_o shall_v add_v or_o diminish_v from_o the_o word_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n in_o the_o 18_o and_o 19_o verse_n of_o chap._n 22._o for_o there_o be_v no_o other_o discovery_n of_o the_o state_n of_o affair_n than_o what_o be_v in_o this_o present_a book_n to_o be_v expect_v until_o the_o end_n of_o all_o and_o therefore_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o second_o verse_n the_o better_a to_o gain_v belief_n and_o credit_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n and_o unto_o the_o subordinate_a instrument_n and_o author_n thereof_o describe_v his_o excellency_n office_n gift_n and_o quality_n in_o these_o word_n verse_n 2._o who_o bare_a record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o all_o thing_n that_o he_o see_v you_o have_v in_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d who_o witness_v a_o record_n or_o bear_v a_o sure_a testimony_n and_o that_o of_o three_o thing_n first_o of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n second_o of_o jesus_n christ_n three_o of_o all_o thing_n that_o he_o see_v wherein_o two_o sense_n or_o interpretation_n offer_v themselves_o to_o the_o view_n whether_o this_o record_n be_v to_o be_v take_v single_o as_o john_n be_v a_o evangelist_n and_o bare_a testimony_n of_o the_o divinity_n of_o the_o word_n as_o one_o with_o god_n and_o that_o word_n be_v god_n john_n 1.1_o and_o this_o word_n be_v make_v flesh_n in_o the_o person_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o bare_a record_n of_o all_o the_o act_n and_o miracle_n which_o he_o see_v this_o divine_a person_n do_v and_o perform_v through_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o life_n here_o beneath_o or_o second_o whether_o this_o record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o the_o thing_n which_o he_o see_v be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n which_o jesus_n christ_n do_v testify_v unto_o and_o be_v make_v apparent_a by_o vision_n unto_o john_n indeed_o i_o shall_v willing_o admit_v of_o both_o sense_n and_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o this_o verse_n aim_v at_o both_o for_o add_v the_o better_a authority_n and_o credit_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n and_o though_o the_o gospel_n of_o john_n be_v not_o write_v when_o this_o revelation_n be_v give_v yet_o by_o his_o constant_a preach_n he_o may_v well_o be_v see_v to_o bear_v record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o all_o thing_n that_o he_o see_v 1._o from_o the_o first_o sense_n note_v that_o they_o that_o be_v the_o faithful_a publisher_n or_o preacher_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n christ_n get_v best_a credit_n and_o reputation_n to_o all_o other_o their_o relation_n 2._o another_o note_n be_v that_o they_o be_v fit_a to_o receive_v vision_n or_o prophecy_n from_o god_n that_o bear_v the_o faithful_a record_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n christ_n john_n be_v now_o a_o prisoner_n and_o under_o banishment_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n when_o he_o receive_v those_o revelation_n paul_n as_o a_o reward_n of_o his_o faithfulness_n in_o his_o ministry_n and_o apostleship_n have_v even_o here_o a_o irradiation_n and_o taste_v of_o the_o heavenly_a glory_n when_o he_o be_v wrap_v up_o in_o the_o three_o heaven_n the_o prophet_n of_o old_a ezekiel_n daniel_n jeremiah_n etc._n etc._n receive_v those_o vision_n of_o god_n high_a and_o excellent_a one_o because_o they_o be_v faithful_a witness_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o publisher_n of_o it_o unto_o other_o and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v because_o they_o who_o mind_n be_v most_o conversant_a with_o god_n and_o exercise_v in_o his_o word_n be_v fit_a instrument_n to_o receive_v and_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n for_o omne_fw-la simile_n gaudet_fw-la simili_fw-la every_o like_a desire_n communication_n with_o its_o like_a verse_n 3._o bless_a be_v he_o that_o read_v and_o they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o this_o prophecy_n and_o keep_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v therein_o for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n you_o have_v again_o the_o promise_n of_o blessedness_n make_v to_o those_o that_o keep_v the_o say_n of_o this_o prophecy_n in_o the_o last_o chapter_n verse_n 7â—_n from_o which_o promise_n here_o in_o the_o entrance_n of_o the_o book_n and_o in_o the_o end_n thereof_o reiterated_a and_o make_v good_a to_o such_o as_o keep_v the_o say_n of_o this_o prophecy_n you_o may_v observe_v observe_v 1._o that_o this_o pprophecy_n be_v not_o altogether_o inaccessible_a but_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o such_o as_o diligent_o inquire_v thereinto_o by_o the_o help_n of_o god_n spirit_n if_o the_o discovery_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v not_o feasible_a how_o vain_a will_v it_o be_v to_o promise_v blessedness_n to_o the_o diligent_a observer_n thereof_o i_o conceive_v it_o will_v be_v very_a derogatory_n to_o the_o divine_a truth_n of_o god_n to_o make_v such_o a_o supposition_n beside_o the_o say_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v to_o be_v read_v hear_v and_o keep_v and_o therefore_o most_o absurd_a to_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v so_o hide_a as_o not_o to_o be_v understand_v in_o the_o scope_n and_o substantial_a part_n thereof_o from_o the_o promise_n of_o blessedness_n note_v observe_v 2._o that_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n contain_v most_o excellent_a and_o useful_a thing_n to_o be_v understand_v keep_v and_o observe_v how_o singular_a useful_a it_o be_v to_o foresee_v the_o come_n either_o of_o the_o day_n of_o joy_n and_o triumph_v or_o the_o day_n of_o evil_n and_o affliction_n that_o our_o spirit_n may_v be_v bear_v up_o and_o our_o heart_n comfort_v under_o all_o condition_n in_o the_o certain_a hope_n and_o expectance_n of_o the_o one_o and_o that_o we_o may_v not_o murmur_v in_o the_o other_o but_o acquiesce_v under_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n in_o patience_n until_o the_o day_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v past_a and_o
over_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n be_v full_a of_o such_o discovery_n to_o wit_n the_o afflict_a state_n of_o the_o church_n its_o security_n in_o that_o condition_n together_o with_o the_o rise_n of_o antichrist_n its_o reign_n pollution_n and_o a_o discovery_n thereof_o and_o at_o last_o its_o utter_a ruin_n and_o abolition_n and_o the_o consequent_a thereof_o the_o restauration_n of_o the_o church_n to_o glory_n judicious_a christian_n shall_v account_v this_o knowledge_n excellent_a it_o will_v much_o help_v to_o keep_v their_o spirit_n in_o a_o frame_n and_o temper_v suitable_a to_o their_o condition_n this_o will_v teach_v they_o to_o know_v that_o this_o be_v a_o time_n of_o patience_n and_o tribulation_n not_o of_o triumph_v and_o reign_v while_o the_o bridegroom_n be_v absent_a the_o spouse_n be_v under_o sorrow_n and_o mourning_n not_o of_o mirth_n and_o rejoice_v the_o scarlet_a whore_n or_o harlot_n church_n sit_v yet_o as_o a_o queen_n and_o therefore_o the_o true_a spouse_n sit_v mourning_n yet_o still_o expect_v the_o daystar_n to_o arise_v for_o her_o comfort_n and_o consolation_n see_v more_o concern_v the_o usefulness_n of_o this_o prophecy_n in_o the_o preface_n to_o this_o work_n observe_v 3._o the_o content_n and_o intendment_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v not_o obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n read_v and_o hear_v will_v not_o serve_v turn_n there_o must_v be_v a_o keep_n that_o be_v he_o that_o will_v read_v to_o advantage_v the_o thing_n in_o this_o prophecy_n must_v read_v observant_o hear_v attentive_o and_o at_o last_o treasure_n up_o in_o his_o heart_n what_o he_o have_v read_v and_o hear_v and_o so_o have_v careful_o observe_v the_o content_n of_o each_o prophecy_n with_o a_o right_a application_n thereof_o he_o become_v most_o bless_v and_o happy_a from_o the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o understanding_n of_o this_o prophecy_n observe_v 4._o that_o the_o profound_a speculation_n and_o the_o choice_a truth_n be_v hard_a come_v by_o it_o be_v a_o true_a say_n quod_fw-la difficilimum_fw-la pulcherrimum_n truth_n as_o treasure_n that_o lie_v deep_a be_v sweet_a it_o be_v not_o unknown_a what_o knot_n there_o be_v in_o the_o choice_a doctrine_n of_o the_o trinity_n the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n justification_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o most_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v this_o inform_v we_o several_a lesson_n 1._o to_o set_v a_o reverence_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v choice_a one_o not_o easy_o come_v by_o 2._o it_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o our_o swell_a conceit_n as_o if_o we_o know_v all_o mystery_n and_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n but_o we_o be_v creature_n not_o omniscient_a and_o it_o teach_v we_o that_o many_o difficulty_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n though_o we_o know_v they_o not_o 3._o it_o quicken_v we_o to_o duty_n and_o whet_v our_o endeavour_n to_o the_o attainment_n thereof_o strive_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o strait_a gate_n choice_a truth_n as_o heaven_n must_v be_v take_v by_o violence_n and_o the_o violent_a take_v they_o by_o force_n 4._o god_n have_v hide_v some_o excellent_a truth_n under_o the_o rock_n and_o lay_v they_o deep_a that_o the_o great_a ability_n and_o grace_n he_o give_v may_v be_v exercise_v therein_o in_o the_o word_n there_o be_v meat_n for_o babe_n and_o also_o meat_n for_o strong_a man_n both_o have_v enough_o that_o neither_o may_v complain_v for_o want_n 5._o last_o it_o drive_v we_o to_o god_n and_o to_o pray_v with_o david_n open_v thou_o our_o eye_n that_o we_o may_v see_v the_o wonder_n of_o thy_o law_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n the_o same_o expression_n be_v in_o the_o last_o chapter_n v._o 10._o which_o intimate_v that_o all_o aught_o to_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o content_n of_o this_o prophecy_n because_o the_o time_n be_v then_o at_o hand_n and_o draw_v nigh_o wherein_o all_o the_o prediction_n thereof_o must_v be_v accomplish_v and_o wherein_o a_o entrance_n shall_v be_v make_v forthwith_o unto_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o some_o and_o so_o unto_o all_o the_o rest_n in_o their_o order_n until_o all_o shall_v be_v fulfil_v and_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v the_o thing_n reveal_v in_o these_o prophecy_n by_o christ_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n must_v short_o come_v to_o pass_v hence_o observe_v that_o those_o prophecy_n begin_v to_o be_v in_o force_n and_o run_v out_o present_o upon_o john_n time_n and_o so_o continue_v in_o all_o the_o age_n since_o until_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o this_o will_v be_v make_v good_a in_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n treat_v on_o the_o particular_n verse_n 4._o john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n grace_n be_v unto_o you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n verse_n 5._o and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n john_n have_v discover_v the_o author_n of_o this_o revelation_n in_o the_o first_o two_o verse_n by_o who_o it_o be_v give_v and_o the_o instrument_n by_o who_o it_o be_v send_v and_o receive_v and_o have_v confirm_v it_o by_o a_o sure_a testimony_n that_o it_o be_v he_o himself_o that_o do_v receive_v it_o he_o go_v on_o with_o a_o salute_a preface_n to_o the_o seven_o famous_a church_n which_o be_v then_o in_o the_o lesser_a asia_n by_o way_n of_o a_o admonitory_a epistle_n wherein_o partly_o he_o commend_v and_o encourage_v they_o partly_o he_o check_v they_o which_o will_v be_v manifest_v in_o the_o progress_n of_o the_o discourse_n before_o he_o enter_v upon_o the_o relation_n of_o the_o prophetical_a vision_n themselves_o from_o whence_o observe_v that_o christ_n minister_n or_o prophet_n though_o they_o have_v a_o burden_n or_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o wrath_n to_o denounce_v against_o a_o people_n or_o church_n yet_o they_o be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o come_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o peace_n in_o their_o mouth_n with_o bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n towards_o they_o the_o work_n of_o judgement_n be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o abhorrency_n unto_o god_n why_o will_v you_o die_v o_o house_n of_o israel_n how_o often_o will_v i_o have_v gather_v and_o heal_v you_o but_o you_o will_v not_o it_o be_v god_n method_n a_o long_a time_n to_o exercise_v his_o patience_n and_o forbearance_n before_o his_o wrath_n be_v execute_v he_o will_v try_v all_o mean_n in_o the_o first_o place_n by_o mercy_n by_o providence_n by_o deliverance_n to_o win_v a_o people_n to_o himself_o he_o will_v as_o a_o good_a husbandman_n many_o year_n enclose_v dig_v dress_v and_o prune_v his_o vineyard_n in_o expectance_n of_o fruitfulness_n before_o he_o will_v hew_v they_o down_o and_o cast_v they_o in_o the_o fire_n he_o will_v abide_v long_o with_o his_o backslide_a child_n forty_o year_n long_o be_v he_o grieve_v by_o his_o gainsay_n people_n israel_n yea_o he_o will_v come_v down_o and_o see_v as_o if_o former_o he_o do_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o their_o sin_n hope_v of_o their_o amendment_n by_o such_o forbearance_n whether_o their_o transgression_n be_v so_o or_o not_o ezek._n 33.11_o god_n take_v a_o solemn_a oath_n as_o i_o live_v say_v the_o lord_n i_o have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o the_o death_n of_o the_o wicked_a turn_v turn_v etc._n etc._n when_o god_n be_v as_o it_o be_v by_o unrepentant_a sinner_n enforce_v to_o withdraw_v his_o presence_n and_o execute_v his_o judgement_n o_o how_o trouble_a be_v he_o at_o it_o he_o do_v it_o as_o it_o be_v step_z by_z step_z ezek_n 10.4_o when_o god_n withdraw_v his_o glory_n from_o the_o temple_n first_o it_o move_v to_o the_o threshold_n then_o towards_o heaven_n v._o 19_o then_o to_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o city_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o the_o mountain_n on_o the_o east_n side_n of_o the_o city_n cap._n 11._o 23._o and_o so_o at_o last_o go_v whole_o from_o they_o this_o set_v a_o reproof_n upon_o such_o that_o come_v like_o boanarge_n son_n of_o thunder_n with_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o wrath_n before_o they_o have_v make_v experiment_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o peace_n and_o grace_n that_o of_o our_o saviour_n may_v be_v well_o apply_v unto_o they_o they_o know_v not_o of_o what_o spirit_n they_o be_v of_o observe_v 2._o that_o all_o christ_n faithful_a minister_n that_o desire_v the_o good_a of_o soul_n by_o their_o doctrine_n be_v to_o pray_v for_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n and_o peace_n in_o god_n and_o in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o upon_o all_o their_o hearer_n it_o be_v john_n wish_n here_o to_o the_o seven_o church_n paul_n always_o in_o every_o epistle_n to_o those_o to_o who_o he_o direct_v they_o rom._n 1.7_o it_o manifest_v our_o charity_n and_o our_o duty_n in_o pray_v for_o all_o
but_o especial_o for_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n quest_n what_o be_v mean_v here_o by_o wish_v grace_n and_o peace_n answ_n not_o only_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o grace_n itself_o the_o fountain_n and_o original_n of_o all_o good_a even_o the_o good_a will_n and_o free_a favour_n of_o god_n which_o he_o bear_v to_o his_o elect_n even_o whilst_o sinner_n in_o and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n and_o peace_n which_o be_v not_o only_o happy_a success_n from_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n which_o concern_v the_o felicity_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n but_o more_o especial_o reconciliation_n unto_o and_o with_o god_n from_o whence_o flow_v all_o true_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n unto_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n quest_n how_o come_v john_n to_o wish_v grace_n and_o peace_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n whilst_o be_v church_n of_o christ_n they_o have_v this_o grace_n and_o peace_n aforehand_o answ_n he_o wish_v unto_o they_o a_o full_a sense_n and_o more_o plenteous_a fruit_n of_o this_o grace_n and_o peace_n and_o perseverance_n in_o it_o it_o seem_v by_o their_o backslide_n they_o have_v lose_v some_o of_o the_o comfort_n and_o fruit_n of_o their_o grace_n and_o therefore_o need_v a_o supply_n from_o god_n second_o i_o answer_v all_o grace_n be_v not_o give_v at_o once_o to_o god_n best_a child_n but_o by_o degree_n and_o as_o they_o be_v capable_a of_o and_o therefore_o right_o may_v john_n wish_v these_o church_n a_o increase_n and_o so_o may_v all_o christ_n minister_n unto_o all_o that_o will_v ever_o want_v increase_n of_o grace_n while_o here_o beneath_o for_o none_o here_o in_o this_o world_n will_v ever_o see_v perfection_n in_o a_o absolute_a and_o abstract_a sense_n and_o therefore_o will_v still_o have_v need_n of_o a_o additament_n of_o grace_n and_o peace_n you_o have_v here_o the_o author_n or_o fountain_n to_o wit_n the_o trinity_n from_o which_o all_o happiness_n all_o true_a grace_n and_o peace_n do_v proceed_v even_o from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o be_v from_o that_o almighty_a glorious_a god_n who_o only_o have_v a_o absolute_a and_o infinite_a be_v in_o and_o of_o himself_o who_o be_v from_o all_o eternity_n and_o be_v the_o same_o for_o ever_o and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_n be_v some_o difficulty_n in_o interpretation_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o seven_o spirit_n some_o interpret_v that_o here_o be_v mean_v seven_o principal_a minister_a spirit_n or_o angel_n that_o always_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v his_o command_n but_o this_o i_o can_v approve_v of_o first_o because_o grace_v and_o peace_n be_v here_o desire_a from_o they_o joint_o as_o from_o god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v bestow_v upon_o the_o church_n and_o this_o be_v not_o the_o angel_n or_o creature_n work_v but_o only_o the_o creator_n second_o for_o that_o in_o all_o the_o epistle_n where_o there_o be_v mention_v make_v of_o this_o or_o the_o like_a salutation_n you_o shall_v never_o find_v it_o in_o any_o create_a spirit_n or_o angel_n name_n but_o only_o in_o this_o sort_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o consolation_n or_o peace_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v with_o you_o three_o for_o that_o in_o chap._n 5._o v._n 6._o these_o seven_o spirit_n be_v there_o call_v the_o seven_o eye_n of_o the_o lamb_n that_o be_v slay_v which_o the_o spirit_n send_v forth_o into_o the_o whole_a earth_n which_o reason_n do_v clear_o convince_v i_o that_o we_o must_v here_o in_o this_o place_n and_o there_o also_o understand_v this_o speak_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o here_o go_v under_o the_o denomination_n of_o seven_o spirit_n to_o signify_v its_o sevenfold_a power_n virtue_n efficacy_n and_o gift_n rom._n 12._o for_o this_o mystical_a number_n of_o seven_o do_v always_o in_o this_o book_n and_o all_o other_o prophecy_n signify_v compleatness_n and_o perfection_n seven_o church_n seven_o candlestick_n seven_o seal_n seven_o trumpet_n seven_o vial_n seven_o angel_n all_o signify_v a_o perfection_n in_o their_o kind_n hence_o take_v this_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o father_n son_n and_o spirit_n the_o whole_a trinity_n be_v engage_v for_o the_o support_n and_o increase_v of_o our_o grace_n and_o peace_n and_o of_o all_o our_o joy_n comfort_n and_o happiness_n here_o hereafter_o and_o for_o ever_o from_o the_o father_n more_o peculiar_o flow_v the_o grace_n of_o election_n from_o the_o son_n the_o grace_n of_o redemption_n and_o satisfaction_n from_o the_o spirit_n the_o grace_n of_o sanctification_n peace_n and_o consolation_n and_o from_o the_o three_o in_o one_o our_o god_n bless_v for_o ever_o salvation_n and_o eternal_a glory_n verse_n 5._o and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o faithful_a witness_n and_o the_o first-begotten_a of_o the_o dead_a and_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n unto_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n verse_n 6._o and_o have_v make_v we_o king_n and_o priest_n unto_o god_n and_o his_o father_n to_o he_o be_v glory_n etc._n etc._n christ_n here_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o faithful_a witness_n in_o sundry_a respect_n first_o in_o that_o he_o have_v faithful_o declare_v the_o will_n of_o the_o father_n second_o in_o that_o he_o have_v be_v faithful_a in_o all_o his_o work_n about_o our_o redemption_n commit_v to_o he_o by_o the_o father_n three_o in_o that_o he_o have_v here_o faithful_o declare_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n towards_o his_o church_n in_o these_o prophecy_n from_o whence_o observe_v as_o before_o on_z vers_n 1._o observe_v that_o this_o prophecy_n have_v so_o faithful_a a_o author_n and_o relater_n as_o christ_n it_o must_v sure_o be_v true_a and_o come_v to_o pass_v if_o the_o word_n speak_v by_o angel_n be_v steadfast_a much_o more_o what_o be_v speak_v by_o the_o son_n heb._n 2.1_o 2._o see_v more_o hereon_o cap._n 3._o 14._o christ_n be_v here_o call_v the_o first-gotten_a of_o the_o dead_a first_o because_o he_o be_v the_o first_o that_o rise_v by_o his_o own_o proper_a power_n from_o the_o dead_a second_o because_o all_o that_o have_v rise_v or_o shall_v so_o rise_v do_v it_o by_o a_o derivative_a virtue_n and_o power_n from_o he_o three_o he_o may_v be_v call_v the_o first-born_a or_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o dead_a because_o he_o be_v the_o true_a and_o substantial_a first-fruit_n that_o be_v offer_v up_o unto_o god_n for_o the_o live_n and_o the_o dead_a which_o be_v typify_v in_o the_o levitical_a primicy_n or_o first_o fruit_n or_o first-born_a that_o be_v offer_v unto_o god_n 1_o cor._n 15.20_o observe_v this_o prove_v the_o resurrection_n if_o christ_n be_v the_o first-born_a of_o the_o dead_a than_o other_o of_o his_o member_n must_v necessary_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o resurrection_n also_o 2_o cor._n 4.14_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v the_o prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n first_o as_o head_n of_o his_o church_n or_o of_o saint_n who_o be_v call_v king_n of_o the_o earth_n rev._n 5.10_o second_o as_o king_n of_o king_n so_o by_o he_o king_n reign_v this_o manifest_v his_o power_n and_o ability_n to_o bless_v we_o here_o with_o his_o grace_n and_o at_o last_o to_o raise_v we_o and_o to_o save_v we_o and_o unto_o this_o mighty_a and_o powerful_a saviour_n who_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n and_o make_v we_o king_n and_o priest_n unto_o god_n that_o be_v king_n and_o conqueror_n not_o only_o over_o our_o own_o lust_n but_o over_o the_o world_n and_o over_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n and_o priest_n to_o offer_v up_o spiritual_a sacrifice_n unto_o the_o father_n to_o this_o gracious_a saviour_n who_o have_v do_v all_o these_o great_a thing_n for_o we_o be_v give_v all_o glory_n and_o dominion_n for_o evermore_o amen_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v ascribe_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n under_o these_o particular_n first_o he_o love_v we_o that_o be_v accept_v our_o person_n in_o himself_o from_o all_o eternity_n and_o in_o time_n justify_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n second_o he_o sanctify_v we_o by_o make_v we_o conqueror_n over_o our_o lust_n and_o to_o become_v active_o zealous_a towards_o god_n in_o spiritual_a sacrifice_n of_o prayer_n and_o praise_n and_o last_o he_o make_v we_o king_n and_o priest_n after_o the_o resurrection_n ruler_n with_o christ_n and_o sharer_n with_o he_o in_o his_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n see_v more_o cap._n 5._o 1._o verse_n 7._o behold_v he_o come_v with_o cloud_n and_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o and_o they_o also_o which_o pierce_v he_o and_o all_o kindred_n of_o the_o
the_o compellation_n observe_v that_o all_o christ_n servant_n be_v brethren_n and_o fellow-feelers_a in_o all_o condition_n whether_o good_a or_o evil_n and_o this_o flow_v from_o that_o root_n of_o union_n be_v all_o baptize_v into_o one_o spirit_n and_o make_v member_n of_o one_o mystical_a body_n so_o that_o what_o good_a soever_o fall_v to_o any_o one_o of_o christ_n member_n the_o whole_a body_n be_v partaker_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o it_o when_o the_o lose_a sheep_n or_o the_o lose_a groat_n in_o the_o parable_n be_v find_v there_o be_v a_o general_a rejoice_v for_o it_o come_v say_v the_o good_a man_n rejoice_v with_o i_o for_o i_o have_v find_v my_o lose_a sheep_n if_o any_o evil_a befall_v to_o any_o member_n there_o be_v mutual_a mourning_n for_o it_o for_o there_o be_v as_o i_o may_v so_o say_v the_o same_o stream_n of_o blood_n run_v in_o all_o their_o vein_n be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n nay_o and_o not_o only_o a_o sympathy_n between_o the_o member_n but_o also_o between_o their_o head_n christ_n and_o they_o for_o he_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o that_o be_v do_v unto_o they_o as_o do_v unto_o himself_o whether_o good_a or_o evil_n in_o as_o much_o as_o you_o have_v not_o do_v it_o unto_o one_o of_o these_o you_o have_v not_o do_v it_o unto_o i_o but_o have_v do_v it_o unto_o one_o of_o these_o you_o have_v do_v it_o unto_o i_o matth._n 25.45_o this_o inform_v all_o in_o power_n how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o cast_v contempt_n on_o the_o saint_n of_o christ_n and_o much_o more_o to_o lay_v affliction_n on_o they_o but_o here_o john_n be_v not_o only_o under_o tribulation_n himself_o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n but_o also_o his_o brethren_n the_o seven_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o who_o he_o write_v be_v fellow_n sufferer_n with_o he_o for_o it_o be_v under_o that_o tyrant_n domitian_n who_o raise_v the_o second_o great_a persecution_n against_o the_o christian_n between_o the_o year_n of_o christ_n 97._o and_o 99_o as_o eusebius_n witness_v and_o doubtless_o it_o reach_v not_o only_o unto_o john_n the_o chief_a apostle_n or_o minister_n of_o those_o church_n but_o that_o they_o be_v sharer_n in_o his_o affliction_n also_o or_o else_o he_o will_v not_o have_v call_v himself_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d companion_n or_o fellow_n commoner_n in_o suffering_n with_o they_o from_o which_o observe_v observe_v 2._o whensoever_o tribulation_n or_o persecution_n do_v seize_v on_o any_o of_o the_o eminent_a light_n or_o minister_n of_o god_n church_n then_o be_v sure_a the_o interior_a christian_n or_o member_n shall_v not_o go_v free_a themselves_o but_o be_v sufferer_n also_o the_o church_n now_o in_o this_o time_n of_o patience_n and_o tribulation_n must_v not_o think_v to_o be_v great_a or_o free_a than_o their_o master_n be_v own_o flock_n be_v in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o abode_n on_o earth_n for_o then_o according_a to_o that_o pprophecy_n of_o isaiah_n the_o shepherd_n be_v smite_v and_o the_o flock_n be_v disperse_v and_o flee_v therefore_o let_v all_o his_o member_n not_o think_v to_o have_v a_o great_a privilege_n of_o exemption_n when_o they_o be_v in_o the_o same_o condition_n that_o those_o sheep_n of_o his_o own_o call_n be_v in_o his_o time_n on_o earth_n from_o john_n condition_n here_o of_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n be_v a_o great_a apostle_n and_o one_o of_o the_o chief_a of_o the_o twelve_o observe_v observe_v 3._o that_o when_o persecution_n arise_v it_o take_v hold_v first_o on_o the_o eminent_a light_n and_o choice_a member_n of_o christ_n church_n satan_n in_o his_o design_n strike_v high_a first_o at_o christ_n next_o at_o his_o apostle_n after_o that_o at_o the_o chief_a pastor_n and_o teacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n if_o so_o possible_a he_o may_v hinder_v the_o progress_n of_o it_o observe_v 4._o as_o a_o corrolary_n from_o this_o note_n that_o it_o be_v a_o rash_a and_o dangerous_a thing_n to_o judge_v of_o the_o condition_n of_o christian_n according_a to_o their_o outward_a affliction_n john_n be_v here_o a_o man_n of_o tribulation_n and_o under_o banishment_n yet_o the_o belove_a disciple_n of_o christ_n the_o world_n present_o judge_v those_o be_v none_o of_o god_n people_n for_o they_o be_v afflict_v discountenance_a imprison_a banish_a etc._n etc._n and_o i_o can_v wish_v that_o none_o but_o the_o world_n do_v judge_v so_o this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o condemn_v the_o righteous_a and_o let_v the_o guilty_a go_v free_a of_o person_n of_o such_o judgement_n i_o demand_v be_v john_n that_o be_v in_o banishment_n and_o under_o tribulation_n or_o domitian_n courtier_n in_o prosperity_n and_o outward_a pomp_n near_o or_o dear_a unto_o god_n be_v ezekiel_n daniel_n mordecai_n and_o the_o three_o child_n in_o the_o babylonish_n captivity_n less_o righteous_a or_o more_o ungodly_a than_o king_n zedekiah_n who_o at_o that_o time_n live_v in_o state_n and_o sin_n in_o the_o land_n of_o judah_n or_o be_v jeconiah_n more_o belove_v of_o god_n dwell_v at_o jerusalem_n who_o be_v a_o despise_a break_a idol_n jer._n 22.28_o than_o those_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n in_o babylon_n who_o wait_v under_o a_o long_a and_o hard_a captivity_n be_v not_o paul_n with_o his_o fetter_n about_o his_o heel_n dear_a unto_o god_n then_o agrippa_n with_o his_o crown_n on_o his_o head_n sit_v in_o the_o throne_n to_o condemn_v he_o shall_v we_o number_v the_o apostle_n the_o martyr_n in_o the_o primitive_a time_n and_o since_o when_o they_o be_v imprison_v stone_a saw_v asunder_o burn_v torment_a and_o slay_v among_o and_o in_o the_o catalogue_n of_o transgressor_n be_v not_o this_o to_o condemn_v christ_n himself_o who_o be_v make_v a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n for_o our_o sake_n in_o short_a those_o that_o be_v under_o great_a tribulation_n may_v be_v dear_a and_o belove_a child_n of_o god_n when_o those_o that_o be_v in_o great_a prosperity_n may_v be_v both_o hate_a &_o obstinate_a enemy_n unto_o he_o observe_v 5._o another_o observation_n hence_o be_v that_o in_o the_o low_a and_o most_o afflict_a condition_n of_o god_n church_n and_o people_n god_n make_v out_o unto_o they_o the_o great_a discovery_n of_o himself_o in_o light_n and_o truth_n and_o comfort_n god_n here_o discover_v unto_o john_n under_o tribulation_n and_o banishment_n this_o excellent_a book_n of_o prophecy_n for_o the_o comfort_n of_o his_o people_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o all_o unto_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o strange_a land_n and_o under_o captivity_n and_o deprive_v of_o all_o their_o ordinance_n peculiar_a to_o their_o temple_n than_o god_n send_v they_o a_o ezekil_n and_o daniel_n even_o in_o babylon_n with_o vision_n of_o god_n to_o comfort_v they_o and_o support_v their_o spirit_n in_o all_o their_o affliction_n to_o preserve_v they_o from_o idolatry_n among_o idolater_n and_o to_o discover_v all_o false_a prophet_n that_o come_v with_o false_a hope_n unto_o they_o to_o deceive_v they_o it_o be_v not_o banishment_n nor_o fetter_n nor_o prison_n can_v keep_v off_o the_o special_a presence_n and_o discovery_n of_o god_n from_o his_o afflict_a one_o when_o they_o be_v low_a he_o be_v high_a in_o grace_n and_o mercy_n towards_o they_o when_o we_o be_v deep_a in_o affliction_n god_n come_v in_o with_o his_o great_a consolation_n thou_o remembr_v we_o in_o our_o low_a estate_n say_v the_o psalmist_n let_v the_o godly_a comfort_n themselves_o in_o this_o that_o in_o their_o prison_n fetter_n or_o banishment_n god_n will_v provide_v for_o they_o his_o discovery_n of_o mercy_n grace_n and_o consolation_n to_o bear_v up_o their_o spirit_n under_o all_o extremity_n in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o kingdom_n and_o patience_n of_o jesus_n christ_n here_o be_v some_o difficulty_n of_o interpretation_n indeed_o kingdom_n in_o scripture_n be_v of_o divers_a acceptation_n sometime_o it_o be_v take_v for_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n in_o spirit_n sometime_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o chief_o for_o his_o triumphant_a reign_n at_o the_o day_n of_o his_o last_o appearance_n and_o i_o conceive_v it_o be_v here_o to_o be_v take_v in_o this_o latter_a sense_n for_o the_o state_n of_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n in_o the_o scripture_n be_v never_o call_v a_o kingdom_n and_o how_o unsuitable_a it_o be_v unto_o it_o all_o know_v though_o they_o be_v say_v to_o overcome_v and_o to_o be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n herein_o for_o the_o kingdom_n be_v bestow_v as_o a_o reward_n and_o crown_n to_o the_o faithful_a hold_v out_o in_o this_o condition_n consult_v reu._n 2.7_o and_o the_o ten_o and_o that_o which_o be_v bestow_v as_o the_o result_n and_o reward_n of_o their_o faithfulness_n under_o tribulation_n which_o be_v the_o kingdom_n can_v in_o no_o good_a sense_n be_v interpret_v to_o be_v faithfulness_n
under_o tribulation_n the_o condition_n itself_o one_o thing_n can_v be_v the_o cause_n and_o the_o effect_n too_o as_o a_o faithful_a hold_v out_o under_o persecution_n be_v the_o cause_n causa_fw-la dispositiva_fw-la the_o kingdom_n or_o reign_v be_v as_o the_o fruit_n and_o effect_n therefore_o not_o one_o and_o the_o same_o so_o that_o the_o interpretation_n or_o sense_n of_o this_o verse_n run_v thus_o i_o john_n your_o brother_n and_o sharer_n or_o companion_n in_o tribulation_n with_o you_o for_o the_o hope_n in_o that_o kingdom_n which_o be_v to_o be_v reveal_v by_o jesus_n christ_n at_o his_o second_o come_v and_o for_o which_o i_o and_o you_o and_o all_o christ_n faithful_a one_o wait_v for_o in_o patience_n and_o long_a desiring_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n from_o whence_o this_o note_n arise_v observe_v that_o all_o christ_n faithful_a one_o ought_v to_o wait_v with_o patience_n under_o all_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n for_o the_o day_n of_o their_o release_n by_o the_o come_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o his_o kingdom_n this_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o patience_n and_o suffering_n not_o of_o reign_v and_o triumph_v some_o of_o christ_n disciple_n will_v needs_o have_v the_o kingdom_n present_o in_o that_o their_o question_n be_v this_o the_o time_n that_o thou_o will_v restore_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o israel_n but_o christ_n answer_v it_o be_v not_o for_o you_o to_o know_v the_o time_n and_o season_n you_o be_v to_o occupy_v employ_v your_o talent_n till_o i_o come_v of_o the_o soul_n behead_v for_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n how_o long_a lord_n be_v their_o continual_a cry_n their_o work_n be_v with_o prayer_n and_o tear_n to_o wait_v upon_o god_n for_o deliverance_n they_o set_v not_o the_o world_n on_o fire_n by_o war_n and_o bloodshed_n the_o proper_a work_n of_o satan_n and_o his_o member_n they_o be_v to_o wit_n the_o saint_n or_o at_o least_o shall_v be_v of_o meek_a placid_a and_o peaceable_a spirit_n easy_o to_o be_v entreat_v when_o they_o be_v revile_v not_o to_o revile_v when_o they_o be_v strike_v not_o to_o strike_v again_o yea_o to_o pray_v even_o for_o their_o very_a enemy_n and_o to_o such_o person_n in_o god_n appoint_a time_n he_o will_v fulfil_v that_o promise_n the_o meek_a shall_v inherit_v the_o earth_n this_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o the_o turbulent_a one_o of_o this_o age_n the_o soundness_n of_o who_o spirit_n i_o question_v be_v opposite_a to_o the_o former_a character_n of_o christ_n spirit_n who_o conceive_v they_o go_v about_o to_o pull_v down_o antichrist_n when_o they_o raise_v commotion_n rebellion_n and_o bloodshed_n in_o state_n and_o commonwealth_n and_o endeavour_v the_o ruin_n of_o the_o sovereign_a magistrate_n thereof_o when_o as_o indeed_o the_o prosecution_n of_o the_o work_n against_o antichrist_n be_v rather_o hinder_v then_o further_v hereby_o for_o hereby_o they_o weaken_v and_o divert_v the_o hand_n of_o sovereign_n from_o that_o work_n in_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v for_o antichrist_n be_v to_o fall_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o those_o prince_n and_o power_n of_o the_o world_n from_o who_o it_o have_v its_o first_o rise_n rev._n 17.16_o and_o therefore_o all_o shall_v rather_o add_v to_o their_o help_a hand_n in_o assist_v those_o christian_a magistrate_n they_o live_v under_o rather_o than_o disturb_v or_o oppose_v they_o in_o this_o work_n and_o for_o those_o that_o be_v otherwise_o mind_v let_v they_o be_v here_o companion_n with_o john_n wait_v for_o his_o come_n in_o faith_n and_o patience_n and_o stand_v still_o and_o they_o shall_v see_v the_o salvation_n of_o our_o god_n observe_v 2._o another_o note_n hence_o rise_v that_o the_o contempletion_n of_o the_o come_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o great_a prop_n and_o stay_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o all_o christ_n faithful_a one_o under_o all_o their_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n john_n here_o comfort_v himself_o and_o the_o church_n with_o those_o thought_n in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o often_o inculcate_n this_o contemplation_n on_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v try_v and_o come_v under_o tribulation_n christ_n will_v give_v they_o as_o the_o guerdon_n of_o all_o their_o suffering_n this_o kingdom_n describe_v under_o several_a name_n of_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n v._o 10._o manna_n which_o be_v hide_v and_o white_a stone_n v._o 17._o the_o tree_n of_o life_n v._o 7._o power_n over_o nation_n v._o 26._o and_o to_o rule_v with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n v._o 27._o and_o last_o christ_n himself_o by_o the_o name_n of_o morning_n star_n v._o 28._o and_o indeed_o what_o can_v more_o support_v the_o spirit_n of_o afflict_a saint_n then_o to_o know_v there_o be_v a_o crown_n lay_v up_o for_o they_o and_o dominion_n that_o shall_v last_v for_o ever_o after_o the_o progress_n of_o a_o short_a afflict_a life_n here_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n paul_n account_v the_o affliction_n of_o this_o present_a life_n not_o worthy_a of_o the_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v reveal_v unto_o we_o rom._n 8.18_o be_v in_o the_o isle_n call_v patmos_n whether_o john_n flee_v there_o voluntary_o to_o avoid_v persecution_n or_o banish_v there_o as_o most_o ancient_a writer_n affirm_v i_o shall_v not_o contend_v but_o sure_o he_o be_v in_o this_o island_n call_v patmos_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a persecution_n in_o domitian_n day_n about_o anno_fw-la christi_fw-la 97._o this_o island_n be_v one_o of_o the_o cyclades_n in_o the_o aegean_a sea_n now_o call_v archipelago_n situate_v between_o the_o lesser_a asia_n and_o greece_n now_o under_o the_o command_n of_o the_o grand_a signior_n and_o in_o the_o way_n go_v up_o from_o the_o mediterranean_a unto_o the_o hellespont_n and_o constantinople_n this_o island_n be_v famous_a for_o nothing_o so_o much_o as_o for_o this_o entertainment_n of_o our_o apostle_n john_n in_o his_o exile_n be_v one_o of_o those_o barbarous_a island_n into_o which_o the_o roman_n do_v use_v to_o send_v their_o malefactor_n and_o exile_n and_o here_o in_o this_o island_n among_o the_o barbarian_n john_n receive_v these_o vision_n and_o revelation_n wherein_o observe_v observe_v that_o god_n do_v not_o tie_v himself_o in_o the_o discovery_n of_o himself_o unto_o the_o holiness_n of_o place_n the_o rabbin_n have_v a_o rule_n among_o they_o and_o they_o hold_v it_o for_o truth_n that_o god_n never_o speak_v unto_o the_o prophet_n out_o of_o the_o holy_a land_n but_o this_o be_v contradict_v in_o the_o prophet_n ezekiel_n and_o daniel_n who_o receive_v their_o vision_n at_o babylon_n by_o the_o river_n chebar_v in_o chaldea_n ezek._n 1.1_o 2._o god_n do_v here_o pass_v by_o the_o holy_a land_n the_o holy_a temple_n the_o holy_a city_n and_o give_v those_o vision_n of_o god_n in_o chaldea_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o spirit_n in_o babylon_n while_o john_n converse_v about_o jerusalem_n and_o those_o holy_a place_n john_n have_v not_o any_o vision_n but_o when_o in_o patmos_n among_o barbarian_n he_o have_v these_o high_a and_o glorious_a revelation_n god_n be_v not_o tie_v to_o place_n in_o a_o dungeon_n in_o prison_n as_o unto_o paul_n and_o other_o in_o a_o babylon_n as_o unto_o ezekiel_n daniel_n and_o the_o three_o child_n god_n pour_v down_o his_o spirit_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o servant_n and_o raise_v they_o up_o unto_o a_o height_n of_o prophecy_n observe_v 2._o that_o god_n often_o in_o the_o most_o obscure_a and_o barbarous_a corner_n of_o the_o earth_n do_v raise_v up_o glorious_a instrument_n for_o his_o service_n it_o be_v once_o a_o question_n can_v any_o good_a come_v out_o of_o nazareth_n much_o more_o may_v it_o be_v say_v can_v any_o good_a come_v out_o of_o egypt_n of_o rome_n of_o babylon_n of_o patmos_n the_o answer_n be_v come_v and_o see_v so_o i_o say_v come_v and_o see_v a_o glorious_a prophet_n in_o patmos_n a_o moses_n in_o egypt_n a_o church_n of_o saint_n in_o the_o house_n of_o nero_n in_o babylon_n a_o ezekiel_n a_o daniel_n in_o caldea_n god_n can_v raise_v up_o instrument_n most_o serviceable_a unto_o his_o name_n and_o glory_n in_o the_o most_o profane_a and_o idolatrous_a place_n and_o this_o be_v from_o that_o unlimited_a spirit_n of_o god_n that_o blow_v where_o it_o list_v see_v more_o hereon_o in_o chap._n 2._o v._n 13._o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n this_n show_v the_o cause_n of_o john_n exile_n because_o he_o profess_v faithful_o the_o word_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n hence_o observe_v that_o the_o saint_n faithful_a profession_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n move_v the_o rage_n of_o christ_n and_o their_o enemy_n against_o they_o john_n here_o become_v a_o fugitive_n and_o exile_n in_o patmos_n for_o this_o faithful_a testimony_n and_o this_o be_v no_o more_o than_o what_o christ_n foretell_v of_o before_o his_o passion_n that_o his_o
disciple_n shall_v be_v offend_v because_o of_o he_o and_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v cast_v out_o imprison_v revile_v and_o suffer_v many_o persecution_n for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o the_o ground_n or_o reason_n of_o all_o this_o be_v from_o that_o promise_n in_o gen._n 3._o that_o god_n will_v set_v enmity_n between_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o this_o enmity_n have_v abide_v ever_o since_o and_o will_v ever_o abide_v between_o those_o two_o mystical_a seed_n until_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n christ_n and_o his_o member_n shall_v become_v absolute_a conqueror_n in_o the_o bind_n up_o the_o old_a serpent_n who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o all_o enmity_n and_o mischief_n this_o inform_v god_n people_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o when_o the_o world_n and_o their_o enemy_n do_v rage_n against_o they_o here_o a_o question_n may_v come_v in_o whether_o christian_n when_o they_o be_v call_v unto_o it_o be_v bind_v in_o duty_n to_o suffer_v for_o the_o profession_n of_o all_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n to_o clear_v this_o question_n i_o shall_v premise_v brief_o that_o truth_n be_v either_o about_o fundamental_o or_o circumstantial_o fundamental_o be_v such_o as_o without_o the_o knowledge_n thereof_o we_o can_v ordinary_o be_v save_v and_o they_o be_v conversant_a either_o about_o the_o very_a be_v of_o a_o saint_n and_o christian_n or_o second_o about_o the_o well-being_n in_o preserve_v and_o build_v up_o this_o christian_a in_o his_o holy_a faith_n and_o these_o be_v call_v principle_n or_o rudiment_n of_o religion_n heb._n 6.1_o you_o know_v no_o one_o can_v proceed_v to_o be_v a_o artist_n in_o any_o art_n or_o science_n or_o come_v to_o any_o perfection_n therein_o without_o some_o certain_a rule_n and_o principle_n to_o proceed_v by_o so_o none_o can_v become_v a_o true_a christian_a or_o artist_n in_o that_o heavenly_a science_n of_o christianity_n without_o some_o first_o lay_v principle_n and_o among_o those_o fundamental_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o christian_n i_o believe_v as_o some_o have_v be_v too_o large_a in_o the_o description_n of_o their_o fundamental_o so_o some_o have_v be_v too_o narrow_a and_o therefore_o see_v they_o be_v not_o precise_o determine_v by_o any_o universal_a assembly_n of_o christian_n but_o be_v leave_v to_o be_v gather_v up_o here_o and_o there_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o parcel_n i_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o presumptuous_a to_o define_v their_o certain_a number_n only_o i_o say_v thus_o much_o that_o that_o creed_n which_o be_v call_v the_o apostolical_a set_v a_o qualify_a sense_n on_o that_o article_n of_o christ_n descent_n into_o hell_n to_o be_v the_o exact_a square_n and_o rule_v of_o principle_n that_o relate_v unto_o the_o very_o be_v of_o a_o christian_a that_o be_v this_o day_n extant_a and_o he_o that_o be_v not_o ready_a to_o suffer_v for_o the_o profession_n thereof_o be_v not_o worthy_a the_o name_n of_o a_o christian_n now_o second_o other_o fundamental_o be_v about_o the_o well-being_n of_o a_o christian_n and_o such_o be_v all_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o baptism_n lord_n supper_n prayer_n thanks-givings_a all_o church_n order_n and_o fellowship_n preach_v exhort_v reprove_v oversee_n and_o the_o like_a and_o if_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n we_o be_v rather_o to_o forbear_v the_o use_n of_o one_o of_o they_o then_o to_o defile_v our_o soul_n or_o conscience_n under_o corrupt_a administration_n of_o they_o but_o if_o at_o any_o time_n we_o be_v call_v to_o suffer_v for_o the_o essential_a truth_n of_o they_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o suffer_v and_o to_o bear_v they_o a_o testimony_n as_o a_o part_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o word_n of_o god_n but_o for_o every_o opinion_n that_o arise_v about_o the_o right_a administration_n of_o the_o latter_a or_o manner_n of_o understanding_n of_o the_o former_a principle_n which_o be_v but_o the_o circumstantial_o of_o religion_n to_o set_v bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n therein_o it_o savour_v rather_o of_o a_o spirit_n of_o contention_n heat_n and_o passion_n then_o of_o find_a judgement_n and_o christian_n wisdom_n this_o be_v to_o make_v hard_a knot_n where_o there_o be_v none_o and_o christ_n call_v his_o yoke_n easy_a this_o be_v to_o make_v it_o burdensome_a and_o intolerable_a the_o substantial_a part_n of_o christian_a religion_n be_v plain_a and_o easy_a and_o the_o blind_a may_v walk_v therein_o and_o a_o lamb_n may_v wade_v through_o this_o be_v life_n eternal_a that_o they_o may_v know_v thou_o the_o only_a true_a god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n who_o thou_o have_v send_v john_n 17.3_o it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v mystery_n high_a question_n and_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n these_o be_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o our_o spirit_n and_o gift_n not_o of_o our_o faith_n no_o further_o then_o as_o part_v of_o the_o reveal_v mind_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o we_o believe_v they_o to_o be_v truth_n though_o we_o understand_v they_o not_o which_o be_v reserve_v until_o the_o day_n of_o the_o revelation_n of_o all_o thing_n when_o we_o shall_v know_v as_o we_o be_v know_v and_o when_o all_o our_o ignorances_n and_n imperfection_n shall_v be_v do_v away_o this_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o some_o hot_a spirit_n of_o these_o time_n that_o rather_o than_o lose_v or_o part_n with_o their_o wild_a opinion_n or_o let_v they_o lie_v unvented_a will_v break_v all_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n charity_n and_o communion_n among_o christian_n and_o so_o utter_o deprive_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n of_o all_o the_o benefit_n which_o otherwise_o their_o gift_n and_o part_n may_v stand_v in_o stead_n for_o i_o doubt_v all_o sort_n of_o christian_n of_o our_o time_n be_v too_o far_o baptize_v into_o this_o error_n and_o satan_n have_v too_o great_a a_o stroke_n in_o it_o to_o divide_v the_o heart_n of_o christian_n about_o circumstantial_o when_o as_o they_o hold_v one_o and_o the_o same_o fundamental_o joint_o together_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n to_o his_o church_n remedy_n this_o great_a evil_n and_o sin_n of_o our_o time_n verse_n 10._o i_o be_v in_o the_o spirit_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n and_o hear_v behind_o i_o a_o great_a voice_n as_o of_o a_o trumpet_n in_o the_o greek_a copy_n it_o be_v no_o more_o but_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i_o be_v in_o the_o spirit_n which_o in_o beza_n translation_n be_v render_v correptus_fw-la in_o spiritu_fw-la i_o be_v rapt_v in_o spirit_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n a_o ecstasy_n wherein_o john_n receive_v this_o vision_n and_o so_o it_o have_v be_v with_o all_o the_o prophet_n of_o old_a they_o be_v act_v by_o the_o spirit_n in_o all_o their_o vision_n and_o prophecy_n they_o be_v lift_v up_o above_o themselves_o and_o out_o of_o themselves_o when_o they_o be_v to_o have_v cognizance_n of_o divine_a thing_n and_o this_o be_v by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n of_o god_n work_v mighty_o in_o their_o spirit_n observe_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v as_o it_o be_v set_v a_o violence_n on_o those_o person_n he_o employ_v about_o the_o high_a mystery_n and_o discovery_n of_o his_o choice_a truth_n paul_n that_o great_a light_n of_o the_o gentile_n he_o have_v his_o rapture_n into_o the_o three_o heaven_n whether_o in_o the_o body_n or_o out_o of_o the_o body_n he_o can_v not_o tell_v exekiel_n when_o he_o be_v to_o receive_v those_o high_a vision_n he_o oft_o report_v of_o the_o spirit_n enter_v into_o he_o and_o take_v he_o up_o cap._n 3.12_o and_o 2.2_o john_n for_o his_o better_a accomplishment_n to_o receive_v those_o divine_a vision_n he_o be_v here_o say_v to_o be_v rapt_v in_o spirit_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o be_v first_o that_o he_o may_v be_v the_o better_o enable_v to_o take_v a_o clear_a and_o full_a view_n of_o those_o divine_a discovery_n which_o be_v about_o to_o be_v show_v unto_o he_o when_o we_o will_v show_v one_o thing_n distinct_o we_o use_v to_o place_v he_o up_o on_o high_a for_o the_o better_a sight_n second_o that_o he_o may_v have_v satisfaction_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o those_o his_o vision_n be_v from_o god_n see_v he_o have_v so_o extraordinary_a taste_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o may_v well_o conclude_v he_o be_v now_o as_o it_o be_v to_o become_v the_o mouth_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o church_n last_o that_o his_o thought_n and_o heart_n may_v have_v be_v sequester_v from_o thing_n below_o and_o his_o contemplation_n raise_v high_a on_o thing_n divine_a as_o a_o true_a prophet_n of_o god_n ought_v to_o have_v another_o note_n from_o hence_o be_v as_o a_o corrollary_n to_o the_o former_a that_o when_o christ_n set_v up_o any_o eminent_a officer_n or_o light_n in_o
his_o church_n for_o the_o service_n thereof_o god_n first_o fill_v they_o with_o his_o spirit_n when_o john_n be_v but_o upon_o enter_v upon_o his_o prophetical_a office_n god_n ravish_v he_o with_o his_o spirit_n and_o fill_v he_o therewith_o to_o fit_v he_o for_o this_o office_n when_o man_n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n be_v to_o be_v choose_v but_o for_o the_o low_a service_n in_o the_o church_n as_o for_o the_o oversight_n of_o the_o poor_a and_o the_o like_a yet_o they_o must_v be_v man_n full_a of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o wisdom_n act_v 6.3_o much_o more_o than_o for_o the_o high_a place_n as_o prophet_n pastor_n teacher_n and_o elder_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v say_v paul_n and_o barnabas_n be_v fill_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o to_o be_v separate_v unto_o the_o work_n act_v 11.24_o and_o 13.2_o the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v for_o those_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o in_o some_o fullness_n of_o it_o those_o place_n be_v not_o for_o such_o as_o be_v fill_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o envy_n covetousness_n pride_n the_o world_n contention_n ignorance_n and_o antichristian_a lord_v such_o have_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o it_o may_v be_v well_o say_v of_o such_o that_o they_o run_v for_o profit_n here_o and_o the_o like_a but_o the_o lord_n send_v they_o not_o jer._n 14.14_o and_o 23.21_o they_o flatter_v themselves_o and_o think_v they_o be_v call_v and_o send_v of_o god_n because_o god_n have_v give_v they_o some_o common_a acquire_v gift_n and_o part_n yet_o want_v all_o the_o especial_a grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o meekness_n self-denial_n contempt_n of_o this_o world_n humility_n bowel_n of_o compassion_n ready_a to_o forgive_v sound_a knowledge_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n in_o their_o life_n and_o conversation_n they_o that_o want_v those_o grace_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o they_o be_v neither_o fit_a for_o those_o high_a function_n in_o the_o church_n nor_o can_v satisfy_o persuade_v themselves_o or_o other_o that_o they_o be_v call_v unto_o it_o let_v this_o be_v as_o a_o memento_n to_o all_o such_o that_o climb_v over_o the_o wall_n into_o those_o holy_a function_n and_o be_v well_o satisfy_v with_o a_o call_n from_o man_n when_o they_o be_v never_o call_v of_o god_n i_o say_v let_v all_o such_o fear_n and_o tremble_v lest_o god_n spew_v they_o all_o our_o together_o with_o their_o flock_n that_o will_v have_v it_o so_o in_o his_o wrath_n for_o ever_o john_n be_v rapt_v in_o spirit_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o greek_a whether_o this_o day_n be_v here_o call_v the_o lord_n day_n for_o the_o great_a discovery_n of_o those_o vision_n make_v unto_o john_n upon_o this_o day_n or_o because_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n day_n for_o the_o assemble_v of_o the_o saint_n to_o perform_v their_o service_n unto_o god_n it_o be_v the_o same_o day_n with_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n and_o our_o christian_n sabbath_n i_o shall_v not_o much_o contend_v but_o rather_o be_o incline_v unto_o the_o latter_a for_o these_o two_o reason_n first_o because_o the_o great_a work_n of_o christ_n resurrection_n on_o that_o day_n wherein_o he_o be_v manifest_v lord_n and_o conqueror_n over_o hell_n and_o satan_n purchase_v it_o that_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n second_o because_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o sabbath_n with_o all_o christian_n public_a service_n be_v transfer_v to_o that_o day_n and_o so_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o according_a to_o the_o scottish_a dialect_n the_o kirk_n day_n the_o church_n day_n because_o they_o hold_v their_o assembly_n and_o perform_v their_o public_a service_n upon_o that_o day_n hence_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o lord_n day_n or_o the_o day_n of_o the_o great_a and_o public_a assembling_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v the_o fit_a time_n for_o god_n high_a discovery_n of_o grace_n and_o truth_n john_n receive_v here_o on_o this_o day_n his_o high_a irradiation_n of_o spirit_n and_o prophecy_n this_o be_v god_n great_a market_n day_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o constant_a and_o mutual_a exchange_n or_o barter_v of_o heavenly_a and_o divine_a commodity_n the_o saint_n come_v with_o the_o return_n of_o their_o improvement_n of_o mercy_n in_o praise_n prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n god_n give_v out_o in_o return_n far_a supply_n of_o grace_n and_o great_a measure_n of_o knowledge_n in_o his_o way_n and_o truth_n therefore_o sure_a most_o happy_a most_o know_a and_o most_o gracious_a be_v those_o saint_n that_o be_v most_o find_v in_o this_o way_n o_o this_o shall_v make_v all_o of_o we_o that_o be_v not_o in_o this_o way_n to_o wail_v for_o it_o as_o david_n in_o his_o absence_n and_o exile_n from_o the_o church_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o special_a habitation_n of_o god_n glory_n psal_n 96.6_o and_o to_o breath_n after_o it_o even_o as_o the_o hart_n bray_v after_o the_o fountain_n stream_n for_o this_o be_v the_o day_n of_o the_o saint_n assembling_n wherein_o the_o angel_n come_v down_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n christ_n in_o spirit_n to_o stir_v upon_o the_o water_n of_o bethesda_n upon_o the_o heart_n and_o affection_n of_o all_o his_o people_n when_o john_n be_v in_o this_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n than_o he_o hear_v behind_o he_o a_o mighty_a voice_n as_o it_o be_v of_o a_o trumpet_n loud_a and_o terrible_a the_o trumpet_n be_v a_o warlike_a instrument_n who_o sound_n be_v to_o prepare_v unto_o battle_n and_o to_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o adversary_n god_n public_a admonition_n be_v so_o unto_o his_o church_n it_o not_o only_o prepare_v his_o own_o unto_o repentance_n but_o be_v also_o of_o terrible_a signification_n unto_o all_o his_o impenitent_a enemy_n but_o here_o come_v in_o a_o question_n fit_a to_o be_v discuss_v john_n have_v here_o his_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n ecstasy_n and_o hear_v a_o great_a voice_n as_o of_o a_o trumpet_n the_o quere_z will_v be_v how_o shall_v we_o know_v divine_a rapture_n ecstasy_n or_o vision_n from_o diabolical_a for_o satan_n be_v god_n ape_n and_o have_v his_o rapture_n possession_n strange_a apparition_n sound_n and_o voice_n also_o for_o answer_v first_o know_v that_o god_n vision_n be_v give_v either_o in_o the_o sleep_n as_o unto_o jacob_n when_o he_o see_v a_o ladder_n reach_v from_o earth_n to_o heaven_n and_o angel_n ascend_v and_o descend_v in_o gen._n 28._o but_o such_o be_v more_o proper_o call_v divine_a dream_n or_o second_o when_o the_o person_n be_v awake_a as_o here_o when_o john_n be_v at_o patmos_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n doubtless_o either_o in_o god_n service_n or_o holy_a contemplation_n he_o receive_v those_o vision_n and_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n and_o those_o ecstasy_n or_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n do_v cause_n a_o great_a alteration_n upon_o the_o person_n that_o receive_v they_o he_o be_v as_o it_o be_v take_v out_o of_o himself_o that_o be_v in_o this_o posture_n and_o frame_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v a_o rapture_n or_o ecstasy_n quasi_fw-la extra_fw-la se_fw-la raptus_fw-la be_v in_o that_o posture_n not_o master_n of_o the_o faculty_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n which_o be_v whole_o in_o the_o power_n and_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o act_v they_o and_o this_o be_v common_a to_o both_o sort_n of_o rapture_n whether_o from_o the_o good_a or_o evil_a spirit_n now_o to_o discern_v what_o spirit_n move_v in_o such_o rapture_n or_o vision_n observe_v first_o whether_o the_o person_n passive_a or_o that_o be_v under_o such_o rapture_n of_o spirit_n be_v always_o or_o for_o the_o most_o part_n of_o their_o life_n faithful_a witness_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n christ_n such_o have_v not_o only_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o teach_v they_o all_o thing_n 1_o john_n 2.27_o but_o to_o be_v preserve_v against_o the_o evil_a one_o in_o their_o body_n soul_n and_o spirit_n second_o observe_v the_o matter_n of_o their_o vision_n in_o such_o rapture_n whether_o it_o be_v to_o denounce_v god_n judgement_n against_o sinful_a practice_n or_o not_o for_o sure_o satan_n will_v never_o be_v divide_v against_o himself_o if_o we_o will_v believe_v our_o saviour_n for_o so_o his_o kingdom_n can_v not_o stand_v though_o i_o have_v read_v a_o story_n in_o some_o old_a popish_a mass-monger_n that_o the_o devil_n once_o in_o the_o shape_n of_o a_o priest_n preach_v a_o very_a catholic_a sermon_n but_o be_v discover_v by_o some_o saint_n in_o presence_n it_o seem_v one_o of_o a_o excellent_a endowment_n in_o discern_a spirit_n ask_v he_o how_o dare_v satan_n to_o appear_v in_o that_o presence_n with_o so_o sound_a holy_a
the_o son_n of_o man_n he_o be_v from_o his_o first_o undertake_n for_o fall_v man_n even_o from_o the_o beginning_n the_o great_a administrator_n and_o agent_n for_o his_o father_n and_o so_o will_v be_v until_o the_o end_n of_o all_o under_o several_a appearance_n to_o wit_n either_o in_o spirit_n and_o power_n as_o now_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o second_o in_o visional_a representation_n as_o here_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o man_n and_o to_o the_o prophet_n of_o old_a or_o three_o and_o last_o in_o his_o real_a humane_a nature_n as_o the_o son_n of_o man_n as_o in_o his_o first_o and_o second_o come_v object_n but_o some_o may_v here_o unadvised_o say_v if_o this_o be_v the_o deity_n of_o christ_n that_o appear_v here_o to_o john_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o man_n and_o his_o manhood_n in_o heaven_n why_o then_o there_o may_v be_v a_o separation_n between_o the_o deity_n and_o the_o manhood_n of_o christ_n but_o this_o objection_n savour_v of_o much_o ignorance_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o deity_n though_o the_o deity_n i_o grant_v be_v most_o eminent_o conjunct_a with_o the_o manhood_n in_o heaven_n for_o that_o be_v the_o most_o special_a and_o magnificent_a habitation_n of_o his_o glory_n yet_o this_o do_v not_o at_o all_o hinder_a but_o that_o that_o infinite_a deity_n which_o be_v one_o with_o the_o humanity_n in_o heaven_n do_v from_o thence_o flow_v and_o extend_v itself_o most_o infinite_o over_o the_o whole_a universe_n and_o therefore_o be_v not_o only_o most_o glorious_a in_o heaven_n but_o all_o other_o sublunary_a place_n also_o be_v fill_v with_o his_o glorious_a presence_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o psalmist_n 119.8_o if_o i_o ascend_v up_o unto_o heaven_n why_o thou_o be_v there_o that_o be_v the_o habitation_n of_o thy_o glory_n if_o i_o go_v down_o unto_o the_o deep_n thou_o be_v there_o also_o thy_o power_n and_o wonderful_a providential_a working_n be_v see_v there_o also_o this_o be_v make_v good_a by_o that_o old_a verse_n enter_v praesenter_fw-la deus_fw-la hic_fw-la &_o ubique_fw-la potenter_fw-la god_n be_v power_n and_o presence_n be_v most_o clear_a on_o high_a and_o here_o beneath_o and_o every_o where_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o strange_a that_o christ_n shall_v here_o appear_v unto_o john_n in_o his_o deity_n as_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o not_o as_o the_o son_n of_o man_n but_o in_o the_o form_n or_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n for_o if_o christ_n have_v appear_v to_o john_n in_o his_o humanity_n as_o he_o do_v unto_o stephen_n he_o have_v then_o call_v he_o the_o son_n of_o man_n but_o take_v only_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n he_o be_v call_v cap._n 2._o 18._o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o not_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v under_o a_o figure_n like_o to_o his_o humanity_n his_o humane_a body_n be_v in_o heaven_n since_o his_o ascension_n and_o be_v there_o to_o abide_v until_o the_o latter_a day_n act_n 2.34_o 35._o from_o this_o figure_n of_o christ_n appearance_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o man_n observe_v that_o the_o divine_a nature_n of_o christ_n be_v too_o glorious_a for_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n to_o behold_v therefore_o be_v here_o represent_v to_o john_n under_o the_o form_n of_o man_n the_o more_o excellent_a glory_n be_v here_o shadow_v under_o that_o be_v less_o glorious_a if_o christ_n have_v open_v his_o divine_a nature_n and_o glory_n unto_o john_n in_o the_o fullness_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o other_o then_o in_o some_o dark_a representation_n of_o it_o it_o will_v have_v overwhelm_v john_n and_o slay_v he_o no_o man_n can_v see_v i_o and_o live_v say_v god_n to_o moses_n exod._n 33.18_o when_o he_o desire_v god_n to_o show_v he_o his_o glory_n this_o representation_n unto_o john_n be_v so_o glorious_a though_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o man_n that_o john_n profess_v in_o verse_n 17._o when_o he_o see_v it_o he_o fall_v at_o his_o foot_n as_o dead_a if_o we_o can_v behold_v without_o prejudice_n the_o sun_n in_o its_o glory_n how_o can_v we_o behold_v the_o exceed_a glory_n of_o the_o creator_n who_o glory_n exceed_v infinite_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o the_o creature_n as_o far_o as_o infinity_n exceed_v all_o finite_a being_n the_o sight_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o majesty_n will_v turn_v we_o into_o nothing_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o condescend_v to_o our_o weakness_n and_o shrine_n up_o his_o majesty_n under_o the_o form_n of_o man_n there_o can_v be_v no_o communion_n between_o he_o and_o we_o oh_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n that_o condescend_v to_o our_o capacity_n from_o christ_n appear_v in_o the_o mid_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n note_v that_o christ_n sit_v as_o king_n and_o supreme_a moderator_n and_o governor_n in_o his_o church_n and_o this_o be_v couch_v in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o mid_n of_o they_o for_o a_o king_n supreme_a captain_n or_o governor_n sit_v in_o his_o throne_n in_o the_o mid_n of_o his_o noble_n and_o servant_n be_v environ_v about_o with_o attendant_n for_o his_o great_a majesty_n this_o person_n here_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mid_n of_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n which_o denote_v christ_n kingly_a office_n be_v far_o describe_v by_o his_o garment_n be_v clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n down_o to_o the_o foot_n betoken_v gravity_n and_o wisdom_n this_o sort_n of_o garment_n be_v wear_v of_o the_o priest_n of_o old_a and_o also_o of_o the_o roman_a senator_n the_o scribes_z and_o pharisee_n and_o doctor_n of_o the_o law_n in_o christ_n time_n matth._n 12.38_o use_v also_o this_o kind_n of_o garment_n and_o christ_n here_o appear_v in_o this_o garb_n which_o do_v typical_o represent_v both_o his_o priestly_a office_n and_o his_o prophetical_a office_n also_o for_o the_o priest_n and_o prophet_n under_o the_o law_n be_v to_o be_v array_v in_o such_o long_a garment_n exod._n 28.42_o 43._o leu._n 6.10_o and_o samuel_n the_o prophet_n minister_v in_o such_o a_o garment_n 1_o sam._n 2.18_o hence_o observe_v that_o when_o christ_n make_v discovery_n of_o himself_o to_o his_o church_n he_o desire_v to_o manifest_v himself_o in_o all_o his_o office_n when_o he_o appear_v here_o among_o these_o asian_a church_n in_o a_o kingly_a way_n and_o power_n to_o chastise_v they_o for_o their_o backslide_n yet_o he_o appear_v too_o in_o a_o sacerdotal_a garment_n under_o his_o priestly_a office_n intercede_v for_o his_o poor_a backslide_a people_n and_o withal_o exercise_v his_o prophetical_a office_n in_o admonish_v they_o to_o return_v to_o their_o first_o love_n who_o they_o have_v forsake_v christ_n will_v not_o be_v want_v in_o any_o of_o his_o office_n for_o the_o good_a and_o benefit_n of_o his_o church_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v say_v here_o to_o be_v gird_v about_o the_o pap_n with_o a_o golden_a girdle_n which_o denote_v christ_n readiness_n in_o all_o his_o office_n for_o their_o good_a consult_v luke_n 12.35_o and_o 17.8_o when_o the_o roman_n of_o old_a do_v undertake_v any_o matter_n of_o action_n they_o do_v use_v to_o truss_v up_o their_o long_a garment_n for_o the_o better_a expedition_n in_o their_o action_n so_o christ_n here_o be_v say_v to_o be_v gird_v with_o a_o precious_a and_o golden_a girdle_n to_o manifest_v his_o readiness_n for_o his_o church_n service_n either_o as_o king_n to_o rule_v and_o chastise_v they_o as_o a_o priest_n to_o intercede_v for_o they_o and_o as_o a_o prophet_n to_o inform_v they_o verse_n 14._o his_o head_n and_o hair_n be_v white_a as_o white_a wool_n and_o as_o snow_n and_o his_o eye_n be_v as_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n verse_n 15._o and_o his_o foot_n like_v unto_o fine_a brass_n burn_v as_o in_o a_o furnace_n and_o his_o voice_n as_o the_o sound_n of_o many_o water_n this_o appearance_n or_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v far_a describe_v to_o have_v his_o head_n and_o hair_n white_a as_o wool_n and_o as_o snow_n and_o the_o ancient_n of_o day_n in_o dan._n 7.9_o be_v ever_o under_o the_o same_o figure_n describe_v white_a hair_n and_o white_a head_n shows_z gravity_n age_n and_o antiquity_n worthy_a of_o all_o due_a reverence_n according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o poet_n magna_fw-la fuit_fw-la quadam_fw-la capitis_fw-la reverentia_fw-la cani_fw-la from_o this_o description_n note_v that_o christ_n as_o the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v of_o the_o same_o antiquity_n with_o the_o father_n even_o one_o and_o the_o same_o coeternal_a god_n bless_v for_o ever_o for_o god_n who_o be_v call_v the_o ancient_n of_o day_n in_o that_o vision_n of_o daniel_n 7.9_o manifest_v himself_o in_o the_o like_a appearance_n as_o he_o do_v here_o unto_o john_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n therefore_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o god_n have_v the_o
same_o incommunicable_a property_n with_o the_o ancient_n of_o day_n he_o be_v here_o far_o describe_v to_o have_v eye_n as_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o foot_n like_v unto_o fine_a brass_n burn_v as_o in_o a_o furnace_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d eye_n like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n signify_v either_o their_o pierce_a nature_n in_o search_v into_o the_o secret_n of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n to_o terrify_v his_o impenitent_a enemy_n and_o indeed_o christ_n be_v here_o from_o head_n to_o foot_n present_v in_o a_o fiery_a colour_n his_o eye_n be_v as_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n his_o foot_n like_v unto_o fine_a brass_n as_o if_o they_o burn_v in_o a_o furnace_n hence_o note_v observe_v 2._o that_o when_o christ_n be_v about_o execute_v act_n of_o power_n and_o judgement_n against_o kingdom_n or_o church_n he_o be_v most_o terrible_a in_o his_o appearance_n when_o he_o go_v about_o to_o call_v to_o a_o account_n the_o seven_o asian_a church_n he_o be_v very_a intense_a about_o it_o and_o all_o of_o a_o fiery_a colour_n sparkle_v in_o the_o eye_n like_o fire_n do_v signify_v much_o anger_n and_o indignation_n foot_n of_o burn_a brass_n speed_n and_o execution_n christ_n be_v here_o present_v in_o that_o fine_a posture_n he_o be_v bring_v in_o rev._n 10.1_o with_o his_o face_n shine_v as_o the_o sun_n and_o his_o foot_n as_o pillar_n of_o fire_n whereupon_o present_o follow_v terrible_a thunder_n and_o dreadful_a judgement_n so_o in_o chap._n 2._o v._n 18._o he_o be_v present_v with_o eye_n like_o fire_n and_o foot_n like_o brass_n and_o forthwith_o go_v on_o with_o a_o charge_n against_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n so_o in_o rev._n 19.10_o 11_o 12._o he_o be_v say_v to_o have_v his_o eye_n like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o his_o vesture_n dip_v in_o blood_n and_o present_o go_v on_o in_o execute_v great_a wrath_n against_o his_o adversary_n the_o dreadfulness_n of_o this_o fiery_a judge_n when_o he_o come_v in_o wrath_n will_v better_o appear_v if_o we_o consider_v that_o of_o the_o prophet_n malachi_n 3.2_o 3._o who_o shall_v abide_v the_o day_n of_o his_o come_n and_o who_o shall_v stand_v when_o he_o appear_v for_o he_o be_v like_o a_o refiner_n fire_n a_o refiner_n fire_n be_v the_o hot_a most_o terrible_a and_o most_o consume_a how_o terrible_a he_o be_v towards_o babylon_n both_o literal_a and_o mystical_a consider_v jer._n 51.25_o and_o rev._n 18.8_o 9_o etc._n etc._n i_o be_o against_o thou_o oh_o destroy_a mountain_n speak_v of_o babylon_n which_o destroy_v all_o the_o earth_n i_o will_v stretch_v out_o my_o hand_n upon_o thou_o and_o roll_v thou_o down_o from_o the_o rock_n and_o will_v make_v thou_o a_o burn_a mountain_n this_o be_v full_o execute_v on_o old_a babylon_n in_o the_o letter_n and_o how_o severe_a be_v christ_n against_o babylon_n in_o the_o mystery_n in_o rev._n 18.8_o her_o plague_n shall_v come_v at_o one_o day_n death_n and_o sorrow_n and_o famine_n and_o she_o shall_v be_v burn_v with_o fire_n for_o strong_a be_v the_o lord_n god_n which_o will_v condemn_v she_o peruse_v the_o chapter_n throughout_o when_o christ_n go_v forth_o on_o his_o red_a horse_n to_o execute_v judgement_n and_o to_o take_v peace_n from_o the_o earth_n neither_o king_n nor_o captain_n nor_o the_o mighty_a one_o of_o the_o earth_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o stand_v against_o this_o mighty_a one_o they_o shall_v call_v for_o the_o mountain_n to_o fall_v upon_o they_o to_o hide_v they_o from_o the_o face_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o throne_n and_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o the_o lamb._n and_o paul_n tell_v we_o 2_o thes_n 1.8_o of_o the_o dreadfulness_n of_o this_o judge_n who_o shall_v come_v in_o flame_n of_o fire_n to_o what_o end_n to_o destroy_v antichrist_n the_o son_n of_o perdition_n with_o the_o brightness_n of_o his_o come_n only_o consider_v once_o more_o rev._n 19.12_o 13_o etc._n etc._n when_o christ_n go_v forth_o to_o make_v war_n in_o righteousness_n his_o eye_n be_v like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o be_v clothe_v in_o a_o garment_n dip_v in_o blood_n and_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n proceed_v a_o sharp_a sword_n that_o with_o it_o he_o shall_v smite_v the_o heathen_a for_o he_o shall_v rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n for_o he_o it_o be_v that_o tread_v the_o wine-press_n of_o the_o fierceness_n and_o wrath_n of_o almighty_a god_n all_o this_o do_v clear_o inform_v that_o christ_n have_v another_o name_n a_o strange_a name_n that_o none_o know_v but_o himself_o rev._n 19.12_o that_o be_v another_o nature_n and_o disposition_n to_o appear_v in_o then_o of_o a_o lamb_n no_o man_n ever_o think_v that_o have_v only_o consider_v christ_n in_o the_o state_n of_o his_o humiliation_n that_o he_o have_v that_o lion-like_o disposition_n in_o he_o all_o christ_n adversary_n shall_v one_o day_n know_v that_o he_o be_v as_o the_o lion_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o judah_n who_o voice_n shall_v be_v terrible_a unto_o they_o as_o well_o as_o a_o rock_n of_o defence_n and_o safeguard_n to_o all_o his_o choose_a once_o and_o as_o sure_a as_o he_o have_v already_o act_v the_o lamblike_a part_n in_o his_o suffering_n here_o on_o earth_n and_o now_o do_v the_o same_o in_o his_o mediator_n office_n in_o heaven_n so_o he_o shall_v one_o day_n come_v with_o power_n and_o glory_n to_o rule_v the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n that_o will_v not_o have_v he_o for_o their_o lord_n and_o king_n even_o with_o a_o sceptre_n of_o power_n and_o judgement_n and_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n and_o to_o set_v forth_o the_o dreadfulness_n of_o this_o judge_n the_o more_o he_o come_v with_o a_o lion-like_o voice_n roar_v as_o the_o sound_n of_o many_o water_n hence_o note_v observe_v 2._o that_o when_o christ_n come_v to_o judge_v his_o enemy_n he_o be_v not_o only_o dreadful_a in_o his_o look_n and_o outward_a appearance_n but_o he_o be_v dreadful_a all_o over_o even_o in_o his_o word_n also_o in_o verse_n 10._o his_o voice_n be_v as_o of_o a_o trumpet_n loud_z and_o terrible_a here_o like_o the_o sound_n of_o many_o water_n very_o terrible_a to_o his_o enemy_n but_o rouse_a convert_v and_o save_v to_o his_o faithful_a one_o verse_n 16._o and_o he_o have_v in_o his_o right_a hand_n seven_o star_n and_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a two_o edge_a sword_n and_o his_o face_n shine_v as_o the_o sun_n shine_v in_o its_o strength_n notwithstanding_o christ_n dreadful_a appearance_n and_o his_o intenseness_n unto_o judgement_n yet_o he_o have_v in_o his_o right_a hand_n seven_o star_n in_o the_o right_a hand_n be_v seat_v the_o chief_a strength_n and_o power_n of_o man_n and_o so_o it_o connote_v to_o we_o safety_n and_o protection_n and_o he_o take_v the_o seven_o star_n into_o his_o right_a hand_n to_o preserve_v and_o keep_v they_o safe_a under_o his_o protection_n whilst_o he_o be_v execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o his_o impenitent_a backslide_a church_n or_o obstinate_a enemy_n the_o seven_o star_n the_o spirit_n interpret_v to_o be_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n verse_n 20._o of_o this_o chapter_n only_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o angel_n in_o that_o place_n be_v mystical_o represent_v by_o the_o star_n in_o christ_n right_a hand_n i_o think_v fit_a to_o make_v enquiry_n here_o sure_o it_o can_v be_v mean_v angel_n in_o a_o proper_a sense_n such_o as_o be_v minister_a spirit_n the_o angel_n in_o heaven_n for_o john_n be_v command_v in_o the_o next_o chapter_n to_o write_v unto_o those_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n to_o write_v unto_o the_o spirit_n angelical_a all_o know_v such_o a_o command_n will_v not_o proceed_v from_o he_o that_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n therefore_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v interpret_v to_o be_v the_o chief_a minister_n or_o pastor_n of_o those_o asian_a church_n who_o shall_v rather_o be_v call_v here_o the_o messenger_n than_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o word_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v messenger_n which_o we_o translate_v angel_n when_o attribute_v to_o god_n minister_a spirit_n but_o when_o attribute_v unto_o man_n more_o proper_o it_o shall_v be_v render_v messenger_n and_o not_o angel_n as_o that_o of_o peter_n act_v 12._o when_o he_o come_v and_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n where_o the_o disciple_n be_v they_o think_v it_o be_v his_o angel_n and_o not_o himself_o that_o be_v his_o messenger_n one_o come_v from_o he_o to_o acquaint_v they_o of_o his_o deliverance_n for_o they_o can_v not_o be_v so_o ignorant_a to_o conceive_v that_o it_o be_v a_o angel_n that_o knock_v which_o can_v enter_v without_o open_v the_o door_n wherefore_o under_o correction_n of_o better_a judgement_n i_o shall_v account_v this_o among_o
very_a sin_n abundant_o witness_v against_o by_o god_n in_o most_o of_o the_o old_a prophet_n when_o as_o some_o will_v stand_v up_o and_o prophesy_v peace_n when_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n as_o ezek._n 13.10.16_o and_o what_o have_v they_o to_o do_v with_o peace_n while_o their_o hand_n be_v full_a of_o blood_n and_o iniquity_n i_o can_v wish_v it_o be_v not_o the_o sin_n of_o some_o of_o the_o pretend_a angel_n of_o the_o church_n in_o those_o day_n where_o be_v that_o faithful_a one_o to_o be_v find_v it_o may_v be_v one_o of_o a_o thousand_o that_o as_o a_o true_a angel_n or_o ambassador_n from_o christ_n will_v deal_v roundly_o with_o their_o sin_n and_o tell_v israel_n of_o her_o sin_n and_o judah_n of_o her_o transgression_n good_a physician_n will_v search_v the_o wound_n thorough_o the_o rather_o for_o to_o cure_v they_o it_o be_v also_o christ_n method_n to_o lay_v open_a the_o wound_n and_o sin_n of_o his_o church_n that_o so_o he_o may_v like_o the_o good_a samaritane_n pour_v oil_n into_o they_o and_o heal_v they_o and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n christ_n minister_n shall_v follow_v their_o master_n pattern_n deal_v faithful_o simple_o and_o roundly_o with_o the_o sin_n of_o their_o people_n according_a to_o gospel_n rule_v in_o that_o case_n provide_v and_o not_o as_o many_o do_v speak_v peace_n and_o word_n of_o comfort_n the_o true_a portion_n of_o spiritual_a member_n of_o christ_n unto_o profess_a enemy_n to_o godliness_n and_o the_o saint_n scorner_n and_o derider_n of_o christ_n way_n and_o ordinance_n drunkard_n swearer_n etc._n etc._n what_o have_v such_o to_o do_v with_o the_o child_n bread_n so_o continue_v unrepentant_a and_o obstinate_a it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v for_o this_o lukewarmness_n of_o many_o minister_n and_o church_n it_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o christ_n will_v spew_v they_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n cap._n 3._o 16._o as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n and_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n of_o old_a mat._n 21.43_o i_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o of_o ezek._n 13.22_o 23._o to_o be_v serious_o consider_v in_o the_o close_a of_o this_o point_n the_o prophet_n speak_v to_o those_o that_o sow_v pillow_n under_o the_o arms-hole_n because_o with_o lie_v you_o have_v make_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o righteous_a sad_a who_o i_o have_v not_o make_v sad_a and_o strengthen_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o he_o shall_v not_o turn_v from_o his_o wicked_a way_n by_o promise_v he_o life_n therefore_o you_o shall_v see_v no_o more_o vanity_n nor_o divine_a divination_n for_o i_o will_v deliver_v my_o people_n out_o of_o your_o hand_n and_o you_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n observe_v 2._o another_o correllary_n hence_o rise_v that_o all_o church_n and_o person_n ought_v to_o have_v and_o receive_v a_o due_a acknowledgement_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o virtue_n that_o they_o be_v eminent_a in_o though_o chargeable_a with_o many_o defection_n and_o fail_n otherwise_o christ_n spare_v not_o to_o acknowledge_v but_o make_v honourable_a mention_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o and_o the_o next_o chapter_n though_o otherwise_o many_o aberration_n and_o fail_n be_v lay_v unto_o their_o charge_n though_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v to_o be_v reprove_v for_o the_o coldness_n in_o her_o first_o love_n yet_o she_o have_v these_o commendable_a virtue_n and_o grace_n in_o she_o constancy_n and_o patience_n under_o suffering_n for_o christ_n sake_n and_o hatred_n to_o all_o evil_a worker_n and_o false_a light_n and_o apostle_n that_o come_v with_o doctrine_n destructive_a to_o the_o great_a fundamental_a or_o corner_n stone_n the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o christ_n proceed_v with_o the_o other_o church_n in_o the_o like_a method_n and_o lay_v a_o commendable_a character_n on_o they_o all_o for_o those_o grace_n in_o they_o worthy_o call_v for_o it_o paul_n can_v give_v a_o just_a acknowledgement_n to_o his_o brethren_n the_o jew_n though_o otherwise_o perverse_a enough_o bear_v they_o witness_n that_o they_o have_v a_o zeal_n to_o god_n though_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n rom._n 10.2_o and_o christ_n tell_v the_o jew_n and_o speak_v it_o with_o approbation_n and_o to_o their_o commendation_n you_o believe_v in_o god_n believe_v you_o also_o in_o i_o it_o be_v the_o great_a fault_n of_o most_o of_o professor_n of_o these_o day_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n that_o they_o will_v not_o almost_o acknowledge_v he_o a_o brother_n in_o christ_n or_o give_v he_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n that_o be_v not_o baptize_v into_o the_o same_o opinion_n and_o interest_n with_o himself_o but_o this_o rather_o savour_v of_o a_o spirit_n schismatical_a and_o factious_a then_o of_o a_o meek_a christianlike_a peacemaking_a temper_n which_o will_v bear_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v indifferent_a rather_o than_o break_v the_o communion_n and_o unity_n of_o brethren_n who_o have_v put_v on_o one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n o_o what_o a_o lamentable_a practice_n it_o be_v for_o such_o as_o be_v presbyterian_o to_o rake_v up_o all_o the_o fault_n and_o dirt_n they_o can_v and_o cast_v it_o in_o the_o face_n of_o independent_o and_o again_o for_o independent_o to_o cast_v it_o back_o on_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o both_o of_o they_o to_o cast_v it_o in_o the_o face_n of_o those_o call_v anabaptist_n and_o they_o again_o as_o ready_a as_o the_o former_a to_o repay_v it_o back_o again_o why_o have_v you_o so_o learned_a christ_n o_o for_o shame_n let_v all_o that_o fear_n god_n of_o each_o sort_n be_v ashamed_a of_o this_o unchristianlike_a practice_n let_v it_o not_o be_v tell_v in_o gath_n nor_o publish_v in_o askelon_n but_o follow_v the_o step_n of_o your_o common_a saviour_n what_o you_o see_v of_o god_n in_o your_o brethren_n commend_v it_o encourage_v it_o cherish_v it_o though_o there_o may_v be_v fail_n in_o each_o sort_n and_o that_o great_a one_o yet_o for_o that_o grace_n and_o appearance_n of_o god_n in_o they_o love_v they_o honour_v they_o and_o think_v better_o of_o they_o then_o of_o thyself_o though_o thou_o may_v be_v right_a in_o some_o external_o of_o worship_n than_o they_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v right_a than_o thou_o in_o doctrinal_n and_o though_o thou_o be_v sound_a than_o they_o in_o doctrinal_n yet_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o holy_a and_o better_a man_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o to_o comply_v with_o any_o corrupt_a doctrine_n or_o worship_n but_o to_o give_v every_o one_o his_o due_a title_n of_o honour_n love_n and_o commendation_n for_o their_o gift_n and_o grace_n and_o for_o their_o fault_n and_o fail_n deal_v with_o they_o in_o a_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o charity_n gal._n 6.1_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o repentance_n according_a to_o gospel_n order_n for_o so_o thou_o may_v win_v thy_o brother_n but_o by_o the_o other_o way_n thou_o be_v sure_a to_o drive_v he_o far_o from_o thou_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o familistical_a notionist_n the_o quaker_n in_o these_o day_n be_v high_o baptize_v in_o this_o sin_n and_o out_o run_v all_o other_o in_o this_o uncharitable_a and_o unchristianlike_a practice_n they_o be_v sharp_a censurer_n of_o all_o other_o church_n and_o person_n that_o will_v not_o run_v in_o the_o same_o fanatique_a wild_a course_n with_o themselves_o and_o which_o be_v strange_a and_o most_o observable_a be_v that_o they_o never_o will_v acknowledge_v nor_o give_v a_o due_a commendation_n to_o any_o though_o never_o so_o self-denying_a and_o godly_a and_o fill_v abundant_o with_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n unless_o they_o take_v up_o the_o same_o mad_a opinion_n with_o themselves_o and_o therefore_o not_o strange_a when_o they_o have_v lose_v the_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o charity_n and_o in_o stead_n thereof_o be_v fill_v with_o a_o spirit_n of_o self-fulness_n and_o pride_n that_o they_o tread_v under_o foot_n the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n as_o a_o unholy_a thing_n and_o so_o carry_v on_o to_o damnable_a and_o blasphemous_a opinion_n and_o heresy_n among_o the_o many_o reason_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o give_v a_o due_a acknowledgement_n to_o the_o grace_n in_o the_o godly_a these_o be_v some_o 1._o that_o god_n may_v have_v the_o due_a honour_n as_o the_o author_n of_o they_o 2._o because_o all_o grace_n be_v of_o the_o same_o spirit_n work_v and_o therefore_o worthy_a of_o honour_n wheresoever_o they_o be_v find_v 3._o for_o the_o encouragement_n and_o cherish_v all_o person_n under_o all_o hardship_n and_o affliction_n in_o acquire_v and_o maintain_v those_o grace_n alive_a fructify_a and_o effective_a 4._o and_o last_o that_o their_o sin_n may_v not_o so_o discourage_v the_o godly_a as_o to_o think_v nothing_o praise_v worthy_a in_o they_o while_o they_o have_v many_o thing_n in_o they_o worthy_a to_o
be_v praise_v cherish_v and_o follow_v as_o have_v the_o impress_n of_o the_o spirit_n on_o they_o christ_n have_v give_v his_o approbation_n of_o the_o suffering_n constancy_n and_o patience_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o take_v notice_n thereof_o as_o their_o work_n catexochen_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v i_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o your_o grace_n and_o work_n of_o suffering_n patience_n and_o zeal_n against_o such_o worker_n false_a teacher_n and_o false_a apostle_n and_o these_o be_v your_o good_a work_n worthy_a of_o commendation_n and_o imitation_n in_o you_o now_o in_o all_o our_o action_n observe_v there_o must_v be_v many_o circumstantial_a ingredient_n to_o denominate_v they_o by_o the_o name_n of_o good_a work_n according_a to_o that_o old_a rule_n a_o quo_fw-la cvi_fw-la quomodo_fw-la quando_fw-la first_o they_o must_v proceed_v from_o a_o true_a fountain_n god_n spirit_n must_v be_v the_o first_o mover_n and_o author_n of_o they_o corrupt_a nature_n can_v produce_v nothing_o high_a than_o itself_o rom._n 3.9_o 10._o god_n can_v look_v upon_o none_o of_o our_o duty_n or_o work_n with_o a_o eye_n of_o complacency_n unless_o they_o have_v in_o the_o first_o place_n his_o stamp_n upon_o they_o second_o cui_fw-la you_o must_v examine_v to_o what_o end_n and_o to_o who_o to_o who_o name_n and_o glory_n they_o be_v direct_v if_o we_o sacrifice_v to_o ourselves_o for_o our_o own_o end_n and_o advantage_n our_o sacrifice_n be_v in_o vain_a a_o abomination_n and_o as_o the_o cut_n off_o a_o dog_n head_n in_o as_o much_o as_o we_o do_v it_o unto_o ourselves_o and_o not_o unto_o the_o lord_n consider_v isa_n 1._o a_o good_a action_n or_o work_n may_v lose_v its_o crown_n for_o want_v of_o a_o right_a end_n if_o we_o pray_v repent_v mourn_v for_o sin_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v necessary_a duty_n yet_o if_o we_o only_o respect_v ourselves_o and_o our_o own_o end_n to_o wit_n to_o be_v free_v and_o deliver_v only_o from_o wrath_n to_o come_v not_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o sanctify_a of_o god_n name_n thereby_o we_o may_v lose_v much_o of_o the_o comfort_n of_o those_o duty_n if_o not_o the_o duty_n themselves_o become_v sin_n unto_o we_o for_o all_o must_v be_v do_v unto_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o name_n three_o you_o must_v consider_v the_o quomodo_n in_o what_o manner_n work_n be_v to_o be_v do_v to_o denominate_v they_o good_a they_o must_v not_o be_v do_v pharisaical_o to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n so_o they_o lose_v their_o reward_n the_o suffering_n and_o patience_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n be_v high_o commendable_a grace_n in_o they_o yet_o if_o they_o shall_v affect_v they_o as_o the_o popeling_n do_v to_o attain_v to_o themselves_o the_o glory_n and_o name_n of_o martyr_n they_o have_v their_o reward_n the_o familistical_a quaker_n of_o these_o day_n do_v most_o perverse_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o step_n high_o affect_v suffering_n and_o rush_v thereinto_o not_o consider_v the_o cui_fw-la nor_o the_o quomodo_n neither_o to_o what_o end_n they_o do_v it_o nor_o the_o manner_n how_o they_o do_v it_o indeed_o person_n may_v suffer_v just_o for_o their_o pertinacy_n and_o obstinacy_n against_o magistrate_n but_o not_o for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n unless_o in_o his_o providence_n he_o call_v they_o to_o it_o therefore_o four_o the_o quando_fw-la be_v also_o to_o be_v consider_v the_o time_n when_o they_o be_v to_o be_v perform_v to_o bestow_v a_o beneficence_n on_o a_o rich_a person_n or_o one_o that_o want_v it_o not_o it_o can_v be_v call_v a_o act_n of_o charity_n for_o they_o be_v able_a to_o make_v retribution_n for_o it_o but_o to_o do_v it_o towards_o christ_n poor_a afflict_v member_n when_o their_o want_n and_o necessity_n call_v for_o it_o than_o it_o be_v true_o a_o good_a work_n second_o to_o draw_v suffering_n on_o one_o self_n for_o one_o pertinaciousness_n in_o opinion_n not_o relate_v as_o necessary_n or_o fundamental_o unto_o salvation_n and_o so_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o commonwealth_n in_o the_o promotion_n thereof_o this_o can_v be_v term_v a_o suffering_n for_o christ_n name_n but_o it_o must_v be_v clear_a and_o real_a truth_n that_o justify_v a_o soul_n in_o his_o suffering_n for_o it_o that_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n be_v keep_v undefiled_a thereby_o and_o so_o become_v a_o faithful_a witness_n unto_o christ_n and_o the_o truth_n when_o god_n call_v he_o to_o it_o in_o clear_a dispensation_n of_o providence_n see_v more_o hereon_o in_o v._o 9_o of_o the_o former_a chapter_n five_o in_o the_o last_o place_n understand_v that_o the_o best_a and_o choice_a of_o our_o work_n though_o they_o be_v all_o right_o circumstantiate_v as_o aforesaid_a yet_o strict_o and_o simple_o in_o themselves_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o justice_n they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v call_v good_a work_n for_o so_o and_o in_o that_o sense_n god_n be_v only_o good_a mark_v 10.18_o and_o our_o best_a work_n be_v mingle_v with_o much_o weakness_n and_o imperfection_n in_o the_o production_n of_o they_o though_o the_o agency_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v manifest_o in_o they_o yet_o pass_v through_o corrupt_a conduit_n and_o the_o hand_n of_o sinful_a instrument_n they_o receive_v a_o tincture_n of_o the_o vessel_n and_o defilement_n from_o the_o sinful_a agent_n that_o do_v produce_v and_o effect_v they_o and_o so_o single_o in_o themselves_o be_v sinful_a and_o imperfect_a but_o as_o our_o person_n be_v accept_v in_o christ_n our_o work_n though_o otherwise_o weak_a sinful_a and_o imperfect_a in_o themselves_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o soul_n god_n accept_v as_o good_a holy_a and_o perfect_a as_o be_v do_v and_o present_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o upon_o that_o altar_n that_o both_o sanctify_v the_o gift_n and_o the_o giver_n in_o vain_a to_o seek_v for_o a_o acceptation_n of_o our_o work_n before_o our_o person_n be_v in_o christ_n than_o he_o accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n and_o our_o work_n though_o weak_a and_o imperfect_a in_o themselves_o yet_o in_o christ_n and_o as_o flow_v from_o his_o divine_a efficiency_n they_o be_v accept_v of_o god_n as_o most_o holy_a good_a and_o perfect_a i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o place_n consider_v more_o especial_o what_o be_v commendable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o be_v the_o labour_n and_o patience_n they_o undergo_v for_o christ_n sake_n which_o do_v manifest_o appear_v in_o their_o zeal_n against_o evil_a doer_n and_o false_a apostle_n which_o they_o can_v not_o bear_v from_o hence_o note_n observe_v that_o it_o be_v equal_o burdensome_a troublesome_a and_o grievous_a to_o christ_n faithful_a church_n to_o have_v evil_a doer_n and_o false_a teacher_n among_o they_o the_o one_o do_v corrupt_v their_o manner_n the_o other_o their_o judgement_n the_o one_o be_v pernicious_a in_o their_o example_n the_o other_o in_o their_o doctrine_n the_o one_o destroy_v the_o life_n of_o godliness_n the_o other_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o where_o the_o one_o be_v tolerate_v the_o other_o follow_v also_o for_o if_o evil_a worker_n be_v forbear_v in_o the_o church_n their_o judgement_n will_v be_v soon_o corrupt_v to_o endeavour_v to_o uphold_v their_o more_o corrupt_a practice_n for_o such_o as_o keep_v not_o to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n he_o give_v they_o over_o judicial_o to_o embrace_v and_o follow_v false_a teacher_n and_o to_o believe_v lie_n and_o vanity_n and_o second_o when_o false_a teacher_n be_v tolerate_v quick_o follow_v evil_a practice_n when_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o late_a bishop_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o godly_a it_o be_v assert_v that_o the_o law_n that_o require_v the_o observation_n of_o the_o sabbath_n be_v not_o moral_a but_o only_o humane_a and_o ecclesiastic_a what_o follow_v that_o false_a teach_n but_o most_o profane_a and_o wicked_a practice_n of_o card_v bowl_a sport_v revel_v drunkenness_n and_o all_o sort_n of_o profaneness_n upon_o that_o day_n uprightness_n in_o life_n and_o doctrine_n be_v the_o two_o pillar_n of_o a_o church_n and_o where_o one_o fail_v the_o other_o will_v soon_o fall_v to_o ground_n after_o they_o be_v as_o inseparable_a twin_n the_o corruption_n of_o the_o one_o will_v be_v the_o death_n of_o the_o other_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v as_o soon_o as_o these_o primitive_a church_n entertain_v false_a apostle_n among_o they_o we_o present_o hear_v of_o the_o obscene_a sect_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n follow_v the_o devil_n will_v not_o be_v content_v to_o corrupt_v the_o head_n only_o but_o the_o heart_n also_o and_o if_o in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o corrupt_v the_o heart_n the_o evil_a affection_n will_v soon_o fume_v into_o the_o judgement_n and_o darken_v the_o understanding_n wherefore_o a_o use_n of_o caution_n
only_o temporary_a and_o for_o that_o age_n and_o season_n wherein_o the_o gospel_n be_v first_o promulgate_v and_o plant_v and_o for_o this_o purpose_n do_v urge_v that_o other_o text_n of_o paul_n in_o 1_o cor._n 12.28_o and_o god_n have_v ordain_v some_o in_o his_o church_n as_o first_o apostle_n second_o prophet_n three_o teacher_n then_o they_o that_o do_v miracle_n after_o that_o the_o gift_n of_o heal_a help_n government_n diversity_n of_o tongue_n and_o therefore_o hence_o do_v argue_v that_o because_o some_o officer_n that_o be_v here_o number_v up_o be_v but_o temporary_a and_o for_o that_o first_o age_n as_o the_o gift_n of_o miracle_n heal_a etc._n etc._n therefore_o the_o apostolical_a gift_n and_o function_n be_v cease_v also_o with_o they_o which_o be_v as_o they_o say_v for_o the_o first_o plant_n of_o the_o church_n not_o for_o its_o growth_n and_o continuance_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v first_o by_o distinguish_v between_o time_n and_o person_n and_o grant_v that_o officer_n since_o christ_n time_n have_v not_o that_o measure_n of_o unction_n and_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n as_o the_o first_o apostle_n have_v yet_o withal_o assert_v that_o for_o all_o what_o the_o contrary_a mind_a say_v be_v but_o petitio_fw-la principii_fw-la for_o they_o only_o affirm_v that_o the_o apostolical_a office_n be_v but_o temporary_a for_o the_o first_o age_n but_o prove_v it_o not_o and_o though_o they_o rank_v it_o up_o among_o some_o of_o the_o primitive_a gift_n and_o office_n that_o be_v inter_v yet_o to_o persuade_v the_o ingenious_a they_o shall_v inform_v where_o in_o the_o temple_n i_o mean_v god_n word_n be_v their_o grave_n to_o be_v find_v they_o may_v from_o this_o last_o scripture_n as_o just_o argue_v that_o the_o gift_n and_o function_n of_o teacher_n prophet_n help_n and_o government_n be_v also_o cease_v in_o the_o church_n because_o the_o gift_n of_o heal_a miracle_n etc._n etc._n be_v cease_v in_o and_o among_o which_o catalogue_n they_o be_v also_o rank_v second_o this_o tenent_n of_o the_o opponent_n be_v the_o ready_a way_n and_o i_o presume_v have_v a_o great_a influence_n of_o late_a in_o hatch_n and_o cherish_v the_o sect_n of_o the_o seeker_n and_o antiscripturists_a for_o when_o it_o be_v assert_v and_o maintain_v by_o the_o repute_a orthodox_n that_o most_o of_o the_o primitive_a office_n as_o apostle_n gift_n of_o miracle_n healing_n etc._n etc._n be_v cease_v to_o the_o church_n under_o the_o defection_n and_o fall_v away_o by_o the_o rise_n of_o antichrist_n they_o forthwith_o rejoin_v and_o object_n why_o if_o some_o gift_n be_v evacuate_v in_o the_o church_n and_o no_o virtue_n in_o they_o as_o you_o confess_v why_o not_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o same_o foundation_n and_o catalogue_n as_o well_o as_o they_o and_o so_o upon_o the_o same_o ground_n that_o some_o be_v cease_v they_o pertinacious_o affirm_v that_o all_o other_o office_n and_o ordinance_n be_v null_n and_o defunct_a also_o be_v only_o for_o that_o age_n and_o ministration_n and_o to_o that_o end_n do_v interpret_v that_o promise_n of_o christ_n spiritual_a support_n and_o presence_n with_o his_o church_n in_o the_o last_o of_o mattheâ—_n that_o he_o will_v be_v with_o they_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o render_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n or_o all_o generation_n yet_o they_o for_o their_o own_o interest_n render_v to_o the_o end_n of_o that_o age_n and_o so_o consequential_o deny_v the_o word_n and_o ordinance_n and_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n for_o how_o shall_v there_o be_v a_o church_n without_o word_n and_o ordinance_n and_o how_o shall_v the_o word_n and_o ordinance_n be_v administer_v without_o officer_n according_a to_o that_o of_o rom._n 10._o how_o shall_v they_o believe_v unless_o they_o hear_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o hear_v without_o a_o preacher_n and_o how_o shall_v they_o preach_v unless_o they_o be_v send_v this_o have_v be_v the_o sad_a consequence_n of_o assert_v that_o relaxation_n of_o some_o office_n and_o gift_n in_o the_o church_n and_o not_o evidence_v where_o their_o grave_n lie_v or_o their_o repeal_v three_o i_o answer_v that_o eph._n 4.11_o 12_o etc._n etc._n be_v strong_o convince_a for_o the_o contrary_a for_o all_o those_o office_n that_o be_v there_o recount_v which_o christ_n give_v unto_o the_o church_n there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o intimation_n that_o some_o be_v for_o the_o church_n then_o in_o be_v of_o that_o present_a age_n and_o the_o rest_n for_o futurity_n to_o continue_v but_o rather_o the_o contrary_n be_v evince_v and_o he_o give_v some_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n cuibono_n to_o what_o end_n for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n till_o we_o all_o come_v in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n etc._n etc._n now_o i_o will_v antiquery_a be_v the_o saint_n all_o perfect_v be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n at_o a_o end_n be_v the_o church_n the_o body_n of_o christ_n so_o sufficient_o edify_v and_o confirm_v that_o they_o be_v all_o come_v to_o the_o unity_n of_o faith_n and_o to_o perfect_a knowledge_n and_o to_o a_o full_a measure_n and_o stature_n of_o christ_n i_o hope_v none_o will_v affirm_v it_o unless_o the_o perfectist_n and_o quaker_n but_o here_o again_o they_o will_v say_v we_o grant_v ordinary_a officer_n as_o pastor_n teacher_n elder_n etc._n etc._n be_v still_o continue_v in_o the_o church_n for_o this_o work_n until_o we_o all_o come_v to_o be_v a_o perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n but_o extraordinary_a officer_n as_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n be_v cease_v i_o answer_v again_o this_o be_v assert_v and_o not_o prove_v therefore_o it_o be_v a_o beg_n of_o the_o question_n second_o i_o affirm_v that_o those_o which_o be_v call_v the_o stand_v ordinary_a officer_n as_o pastor_n teacher_n elder_n etc._n etc._n be_v in_o their_o first_o institution_n of_o a_o extraordinary_a spirit_n and_o of_o the_o same_o unction_n though_o differ_v in_o measure_n with_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o and_o sometime_o apostle_n pastor_n and_o elder_n be_v take_v as_o synonima_n though_o real_o differ_v among_o themselves_o in_o gift_n and_o office_n as_o to_o instance_n james_n the_o first_o pastor_n or_o bishop_n of_o jerusalem_n be_v also_o a_o pillar_n and_o a_o apostle_n john_n the_o great_a and_o belove_a apostle_n be_v in_o his_o epistle_n call_v the_o elder_a and_o in_o that_o great_a synodical_a assembly_n act_v 15._o the_o elder_n be_v in_o joint_a commission_n with_o the_o apostle_n and_o be_v man_n of_o a_o extraorindary_a spirit_n also_o as_o appear_v by_o all_o those_o of_o the_o first_o unction_n as_o stephen_n ananias_n barnabas_n etc._n etc._n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o brethren_n who_o go_v abroad_o upon_o the_o persecution_n of_o the_o church_n and_o preach_v and_o wrought_v miracle_n every_o where_o act_n 8._o object_n but_o here_o some_o may_v say_v this_o be_v to_o level_v all_o officer_n and_o to_o make_v the_o apostle_n themselves_o but_o of_o equal_a authority_n with_o the_o ordinary_a office_n of_o pastor_n teacher_n elder_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v not_o at_o all_o for_o though_o i_o grant_v some_o purity_n in_o their_o gift_n be_v both_o extraordinary_a in_o their_o first_o unction_n yet_o the_o first_o twelve_o in_o some_o act_n of_o their_o office_n be_v to_o excel_v all_o other_o as_o be_v evident_a by_o act_n 1.22_o when_o the_o eleven_o choose_v mathias_n into_o judas_n bishopric_n peter_n urge_v that_o one_o must_v be_v ordain_v to_o be_v a_o witness_n with_o they_o of_o the_o resurrection_n that_o be_v conversant_a with_o they_o from_o the_o baptism_n of_o john_n to_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n resurrection_n as_o this_o be_v a_o great_a part_n of_o their_o office_n to_o bear_v witness_n of_o the_o life_n death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o world_n and_o this_o they_o can_v attest_v as_o truth_n as_o eye_n witness_n be_v with_o jesus_n all_o the_o time_n he_o go_v in_o and_o out_o among_o they_o and_o herein_o they_o surpass_v all_o other_o that_o come_v after_o second_o they_o excel_v all_o other_o officer_n in_o that_o they_o have_v their_o commission_n immediate_o from_o christ_n to_o convert_v disciple_n and_o baptize_v all_o nation_n into_o the_o faith_n but_o all_o other_o officer_n have_v it_o derivative_o from_o they_o three_o they_o have_v the_o pre-eminence_n in_o gift_n of_o miracle_n which_o be_v most_o frequent_o adjoin_v to_o their_o ministry_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o their_o doctrine_n but_o it_o be_v very_o inconsequent_a that_o the_o whole_a apostolic_a office_n be_v quite_o cease_v to_o the_o church_n because_o some_o of_o the_o most_o eminent_a gift_n and_o endowment_n of_o that_o office_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o first_o institution_n be_v cease_v which_o
only_o indeed_o be_v temporary_a and_o necessary_a alone_o for_o the_o first_o plantation_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n it_o will_v as_o well_o follow_v that_o pastor_n teacher_n and_o elder_n be_v defunct_a because_o some_o of_o their_o first_o primitive_a and_o extraordinary_a gift_n be_v cease_v also_o but_o second_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n that_o what_o be_v necessary_o essential_a to_o denominate_v a_o apostle_n do_v not_o consist_v sole_o in_o be_v eye-witness_n of_o christ_n life_n death_n and_o resurrection_n or_o of_o power_n of_o miracle_n for_o other_o of_o the_o disciple_n may_v be_v partaker_n in_o those_o gift_n and_o be_v so_o equal_o with_o themselves_o and_o yet_o no_o apostle_n and_o paul_n that_o want_v much_o of_o the_o accommodation_n of_o witness_v unto_o the_o life_n death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n though_o supply_v by_o a_o miraculous_a sight_n from_o heaven_n none_o can_v deny_v but_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n and_o light_n unto_o the_o gentile_n last_o in_o the_o affirmative_a i_o assert_v the_o true_a essential_o of_o a_o apostle_n do_v consist_v in_o his_o call_n and_o commission_n to_o that_o work_n and_o function_n christ_n call_v the_o first_o twelve_o matth._n 10.1.5_o which_o be_v only_o denominate_v disciple_n and_o from_o their_o mission_n unto_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o israel_n they_o be_v then_o first_o baptize_v into_o the_o name_n of_o apostle_n and_o so_o have_v take_v their_o name_n from_o their_o office_n as_o man_n send_v it_o soon_o become_v their_o proper_a appellation_n now_o i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o right_a mission_n and_o commission_n that_o give_v a_o be_v and_o essential_o unto_o a_o apostle_n christ_n he_o be_v the_o first_o author_n that_o commissionated_a unto_o this_o office_n in_o that_o of_o matth._n 10._o his_o commission_n be_v more_o strict_a and_o of_o narrow_a jurisdiction_n but_o in_o matth._n 28.19_o it_o be_v much_o enlarge_v for_o in_o the_o first_o they_o be_v only_o to_o go_v to_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o israel_n and_o not_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o gentile_n but_o in_o the_o second_o they_o be_v command_v to_o go_v and_o disciple_n all_o nation_n and_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n now_o as_o they_o be_v send_v on_o this_o great_a embassy_n for_o christ_n and_o by_o christ_n so_o they_o send_v other_o to_o go_v on_o with_o the_o same_o work_n mathias_n be_v the_o first_o we_o read_v of_o act_v 1._o that_o they_o choose_v into_o the_o place_n of_o judas_n after_o that_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n act_n 13.2_o 3._o be_v choose_v and_o separate_v unto_o this_o work_n and_o send_v unto_o the_o gentile_n and_o so_o may_v be_v true_o call_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o gentile_n they_o again_o with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o several_a province_n go_v about_o gather_v and_o constitute_v church_n and_o ordain_v elder_n and_o officer_n in_o every_o church_n and_o those_o political_a church_n make_v up_o of_o officer_n and_o elder_n and_o member_n be_v the_o true_a delegate_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o centre_n of_o all_o just_a power_n and_o authority_n and_o they_o again_o from_o this_o delegated_a power_n commissionate_v other_o and_o send_v they_o forth_o as_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o power_n commit_v unto_o they_o to_o disciple_v the_o gentile_n and_o unconvert_v nation_n abroad_o in_o the_o world_n for_o this_o be_v the_o then_o practice_v unless_o we_o affirm_v that_o all_o church_n be_v plant_v and_o all_o nation_n convert_v by_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o in_o their_o day_n that_o we_o read_v of_o in_o history_n be_v afterward_o convert_v to_o the_o faith_n and_o become_v famous_a church_n the_o apostle_n be_v man_n but_o of_o one_o generation_n and_o to_o ascribe_v to_o they_o that_o work_n be_v to_o make_v they_o eviternal_a though_o their_o doctrine_n continue_v yet_o their_o person_n be_v translate_v and_o go_v to_o their_o father_n and_o this_o propagation_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o work_v of_o conversion_n must_v be_v carry_v on_o from_o generation_n to_o generation_n till_o all_o the_o elect_n be_v call_v in_o and_o we_o all_o come_v to_o a_o perfect_a man_n and_o unto_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n and_o this_o must_v necessary_o be_v do_v by_o apostolical_a man_n and_o officer_n for_o i_o will_v have_v the_o ingenious_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o office_n of_o elder_n pastor_n teacher_n help_n and_o government_n be_v but_o relative_a function_n and_o have_v their_o be_v only_o dependent_a and_o limit_v to_o their_o relation_n and_o church_n they_o be_v neither_o elder_n pastor_n nor_o governent_n without_o their_o own_o church_n therefore_o it_o be_v very_o necessary_a that_o there_o must_v be_v other_o officer_n universal_o commissionated_a to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o the_o unconverted_a gentile_n and_o these_o be_v proper_o call_v apostle_n of_o christ_n authorize_v by_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n unto_o this_o service_n joseph_n of_o arimethea_n as_o antiquity_n testify_v be_v our_o english_a apostle_n which_o be_v send_v by_o the_o church_n unto_o our_o nation_n conversion_n dionysius_n areopagita_n be_v the_o apostle_n unto_o france_n james_n unto_o spain_n anthony_n unto_o italy_n thomas_n unto_o italy_n and_o so_o other_o unto_o other_o nation_n and_o when_o christianity_n be_v almost_o lose_v and_o obliterated_a here_o in_o england_n by_o the_o incursion_n of_o barbarous_a nation_n gregory_n the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n not_o yet_o antichistianize_v some_o century_n of_o year_n after_o send_v here_o austin_n as_o a_o apostle_n and_o a_o restorer_n of_o their_o almost_o lose_a faith_n and_o christian_n profession_n so_o likewise_o when_o our_o church_n send_v man_n to_o convert_v the_o gentile_a nation_n of_o america_n and_o elsewhere_o as_o private_a disciple_n they_o can_v go_v for_o how_o can_v they_o preach_v unless_o they_o be_v send_v as_o officer_n to_o wit_n as_o pastor_n elder_n teacher_n or_o governent_n they_o can_v for_o they_o be_v relation_n only_o to_o their_o own_o church_n therefore_o they_o must_v go_v as_o apostle_n which_o be_v only_o suitable_a to_o so_o general_a and_o universal_a work_n and_o if_o it_o be_v object_v that_o if_o the_o apostolical_a office_n must_v continue_v as_o necessary_a to_o do_v the_o full_a work_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n why_o not_o the_o gift_n of_o healing_n miracle_n tongue_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v there_o be_v no_o necssity_n for_o it_o for_o they_o be_v only_o add_v because_o of_o unbelief_n and_o to_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o doctrine_n which_o be_v first_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n second_o i_o be_o not_o sensible_a what_o great_a inconvenience_n will_v follow_v upon_o it_o if_o it_o be_v admit_v that_o such_o gift_n of_o miracle_n healing_n etc._n etc._n be_v still_o continue_v by_o christ_n unto_o his_o church_n though_o not_o so_o clear_a and_o ordinary_a as_o in_o the_o first_o church_n i_o have_v read_v of_o tertullian_n and_o after_o he_o cyprian_a about_o the_o second_o century_n who_o provoke_v their_o adversary_n to_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o profession_n by_o miracle_n by_o bring_v person_n possess_v with_o devil_n into_o their_o assembly_n which_o if_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v effect_v and_o make_v to_o confess_v themselves_o to_o be_v devil_n and_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n than_o they_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v m._n baxter_n give_v we_o a_o far_a account_n out_o of_o athanasiâ—_n austin_n and_o many_o of_o the_o father_n that_o there_o be_v a_o continuation_n of_o miracle_n in_o their_o day_n and_o attest_v to_o by_o so_o many_o and_o honest_a witness_n that_o they_o be_v credible_a to_o reason_n page_n 63._o upon_o that_o question_n in_o his_o book_n of_o infidelity_n and_o in_o that_o part_n of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n page_z 15._o speak_v of_o cast_v out_o devil_n of_o which_o sort_n say_v he_o some_o think_v that_o real_o they_o do_v so_o by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n as_o we_o may_v do_v now_o by_o fast_v and_o prayer_n sometime_o to_o this_o purpose_n consider_v what_o the_o prayer_n and_o appeal_n of_o god_n people_n have_v strange_o and_o miraculous_o perfect_v and_o produce_v at_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n of_o late_a and_o within_o our_o memory_n in_o divers_a example_n which_o be_v now_o too_o long_o to_o rehearse_v some_o have_v be_v restore_v to_o health_n and_o miraculous_o recover_v when_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n other_o dispossess_v of_o evil_a spirit_n that_o have_v palpable_o vex_v and_o possess_v they_o and_o that_o only_a by_o the_o prayer_n of_o faith_n of_o somg_v odd_o person_n i_o shall_v only_o give_v one_o instance_n i_o hear_v it_o relate_v by_o a_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o christ_n in_o a_o public_a
deny_v the_o instrumentality_n of_o his_o spirit_n be_v sure_a that_o in_o stead_n of_o a_o zion_n such_o will_v erect_v a_o babel_n and_o be_v ignorant_a where_o the_o green_a pasture_n of_o the_o gospel_n lie_v they_o will_v like_o idle_a shepherd_n either_o starve_v the_o sheep_n of_o their_o flock_n or_o at_o least_o poison_v they_o with_o unwholesome_a herbage_n and_o these_o i_o account_v as_o sufficient_a rule_n to_o try_v and_o examine_v false_a apostle_n and_o teacher_n by_o and_o to_o find_v they_o liar_n object_n but_o a_o objection_n may_v here_o arise_v from_o he_o that_o have_v the_o first_o call_v of_o ability_n from_o god_n that_o if_o i_o count_v it_o so_o necessary_a for_o he_o to_o denominate_v he_o orthodox_n in_o his_o call_n to_o have_v the_o additional_a call_n of_o the_o church_n also_o but_o then_o say_v he_o to_o what_o church_n shall_v i_o repair_v to_o receive_v this_o call_n see_v there_o be_v so_o many_o that_o be_v pretender_n to_o be_v the_o true_a and_o right_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o the_o alone_o ordain_v authority_n be_v in_o they_o and_o not_o in_o other_o this_o be_v indeed_o locus_fw-la lubricus_fw-la a_o slippery_a question_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v loath_a to_o deal_v with_o it_o lest_o i_o shall_v offend_v the_o contrary_n mind_v by_o ventilate_v my_o judgement_n herein_o but_o i_o profess_v ingenious_o it_o be_v neither_o man_n nor_o party_n self_n interest_n nor_o by-affection_n that_o do_v lead_v i_o first_o to_o this_o undertake_n but_o only_o the_o general_a good_a of_o christian_n unto_o which_o the_o lord_n move_v my_o heart_n with_o much_o singleness_n of_o spirit_n be_v clear_o unbiased_a and_o not_o so_o overmuch_o engage_v to_o any_o of_o the_o new_a party_n of_o these_o time_n but_o that_o i_o can_v reserve_v my_o judgement_n free_a to_o close_v with_o truth_n wheresoever_o i_o can_v find_v it_o and_o therefore_o i_o think_v it_o not_o amiss_o but_o to_o prosecute_v my_o first_o intendment_n in_o the_o singleness_n of_o heart_n to_o endeavour_v to_o clear_v up_o truth_n according_a to_o the_o scantle_v of_o my_o judgement_n not_o as_o walk_v in_o the_o cloud_n but_o in_o plainness_n and_o perspicuity_n though_o for_o my_o reward_n i_o may_v have_v his_o hire_n that_o trace_v truth_n so_o near_o at_o the_o heel_n that_o have_v his_o tooth_n dash_v out_o for_o his_o pain_n but_o if_o i_o be_v a_o fool_n herein_o yet_o be_v repute_v a_o fool_n for_o the_o promotion_n of_o truth_n it_o will_v be_v some_o comfort_n and_o if_o i_o suffer_v loss_n herein_o yet_o this_o consideration_n will_v consolate_v magnis_fw-la tamen_fw-la excidit_fw-la ausis_fw-la first_o then_o to_o the_o business_n understand_v that_o the_o word_n church_n in_o scripture_n be_v ordinary_o take_v to_o avoid_v all_o criticise_n upon_o the_o word_n to_o be_v the_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a gather_v out_o of_o all_o nation_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n and_o this_o i_o conceive_v to_o be_v the_o genuine_a definition_n of_o the_o church_n which_o may_v abundant_o be_v make_v good_a both_o by_o good_a authority_n and_o scripture_n now_o this_o church_n be_v either_o more_o improper_o first_o call_v the_o invisible_a church_n or_o second_o more_o proper_o the_o visible_a church_n the_o invisible_a church_n comprehend_v only_o the_o elect_a and_o see_v their_o number_n to_o we_o be_v unknown_a therefore_o they_o be_v denominate_v invisible_a but_o second_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v either_o to_o be_v take_v for_o the_o visible_a universal_a catholic_a church_n or_o second_o for_o a_o visible_a particular_a political_a church_n now_o the_o question_n be_v concern_v the_o church_n in_o this_o last_o notion_n for_o it_o be_v apparent_a the_o invisible_a church_n as_o invisible_a have_v not_o to_o do_v in_o visible_a and_o outward_a ordinance_n neither_o second_o the_o visible_a universal_a church_n can_v by_o themselves_o or_o other_o their_o representative_n convene_v for_o the_o institution_n of_o officer_n for_o how_o can_v it_o stand_v with_o conveniency_n or_o with_o the_o least_o show_n of_o reasonableness_n that_o all_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n disperse_v and_o plant_v in_o the_o various_a and_o far_o distant_a corner_n and_o land_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v either_o by_o themselves_o or_o their_o represent_v officer_n meet_v together_o in_o one_o catholic_a assembly_n for_o the_o dispose_n and_o confer_v of_o all_o mediate_a call_v and_o office_n and_o therefore_o christ_n have_v ordain_v that_o all_o wise_a order_n and_o gubernation_n in_o and_o over_o his_o mystical_a body_n the_o church_n that_o every_o part_n of_o this_o universal_a body_n i_o mean_v every_o particular_a christian_n assembly_n of_o the_o church_n catholic_a for_o every_o particular_a be_v part_n of_o the_o whole_a shall_v have_v within_o their_o own_o limit_n and_o jurisdiction_n a_o full_a power_n to_o exercise_v all_o the_o office_n and_o ordinance_n which_o christ_n have_v give_v and_o institute_v for_o the_o good_a and_o edification_n of_o his_o church_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n neither_o be_v the_o church_n to_o be_v call_v catholic_a in_o respect_n of_o any_o her_o officer_n for_o we_o know_v no_o such_o office_n since_o the_o first_o apostle_n that_o be_v so_o extraordinary_a gift_v as_o to_o have_v the_o denomination_n of_o catholic_a authority_n over_o the_o universal_a church_n though_o they_o may_v be_v account_v to_o have_v jus_fw-la ad_fw-la rem_fw-la fit_a to_o be_v officer_n of_o any_o part_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n and_o so_o to_o have_v a_o potential_a right_n thereunto_o yet_o actual_a they_o have_v not_o before_o their_o particular_a call_v do_v invest_v they_o into_o jus_n in_o re_fw-la as_o well_o as_o their_o gift_n and_o ability_n do_v to_o jus_fw-la ad_fw-la rem_fw-la but_o the_o profession_n of_o that_o catholic_a universal_a faith_n which_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o in_o all_o church_n over_o the_o whole_a world_n that_o give_v denomination_n to_o the_o universal_a or_o catholic_a church_n therefore_o the_o result_v and_o conclusion_n of_o combine_a church_n provincial_a or_o national_a may_v be_v only_o admit_v as_o prudential_o bind_v and_o oblige_v as_o ecclesiastical_a law_n and_o canon_n but_o not_o as_o have_v a_o divine_a authority_n stamp_v upon_o they_o though_o agreeable_a to_o the_o divine_a truth_n itself_o so_o that_o such_o constitution_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v and_o embrace_v not_o sole_o virtute_fw-la authoritatis_fw-la convocation_n be_v sed_fw-la virtute_fw-la veritatis_fw-la propositae_fw-la which_o if_o the_o same_o conclusion_n be_v enjoin_v by_o a_o particular_a christian_n political_a church_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v by_o all_o of_o that_o church_n not_o only_o for_o the_o truth_n sake_n therein_o but_o in_o submission_n to_o the_o divine_a authority_n of_o the_o church_n that_o command_v and_o institute_n they_o such_o be_v the_o difference_n 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their_o incapacity_n the_o act_n of_o faith_n nor_o unbelief_n which_o be_v a_o privation_n by_o refusal_n or_o resistance_n of_o the_o truth_n make_v manifest_a indeed_o such_o absurdity_n do_v they_o incur_v that_o assert_v such_o absolute_a condition_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o be_v do_v on_o man_n part_n yet_o i_o say_v they_o be_v absolute_a and_o peremptory_a on_o christ_n part_n to_o be_v perform_v and_o he_o have_v full_o finish_v all_o the_o condition_n for_o his_o elect_a one_o by_o his_o death_n though_o some_o of_o they_o die_v infant_n yet_o be_v save_v by_o virtue_n of_o that_o everlasting_a covenant_n make_v with_o christ_n in_o for_z and_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o all_o his_o choose_a one_o of_o who_o he_o will_v not_o lose_v one_o which_o the_o father_n have_v give_v he_o from_o this_o precedent_a discourse_n you_o may_v plain_o conclude_v that_o though_o i_o grant_v repentance_n a_o necessary_a gospel_n duty_n and_o for_o divers_a good_a end_n it_o be_v ordain_v so_o yet_o do_v not_o in_o the_o least_o place_n it_o in_o any_o subordinate_a causality_n joint_o with_o christ_n in_o the_o work_n of_o our_o salvation_n but_o only_o as_o our_o duty_n thoroughfare_n or_o way_n thereunto_o command_v and_o institute_v by_o christ_n as_o part_v of_o his_o new_a law_n that_o he_o himself_o may_v have_v the_o pre-eminence_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o name_n and_o glory_n alone_o of_o our_o salvation_n and_o this_o hereon_o shall_v suffice_v see_v more_o hereon_o v._n 23._o observe_v 2._o another_o note_n hence_o be_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o threat_n be_v a_o very_a useful_a gospel_n doctrine_n when_o christ_n have_v pass_v with_o his_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o offer_v a_o reconcilement_n free_o if_o the_o sinner_n will_v but_o turn_v from_o his_o iniquity_n and_o repent_v and_o yet_o the_o sinner_n will_v refuse_v his_o gracious_a term_n he_o have_v another_o burden_n to_o tell_v he_o that_o after_o he_o have_v refuse_v so_o great_a salvation_n he_o can_v cast_v both_o soul_n and_o body_n into_o hell_n fire_n the_o most_o obdurate_a and_o incorrigible_a child_n must_v have_v the_o sharp_a rod_n a_o smile_n or_o a_o love-token_n will_v work_v upon_o the_o ingenious_a but_o say_v solomon_n a_o rod_n be_v for_o the_o back_n of_o a_o fool_n neither_o be_v judgement_n a_o strange_a work_n unto_o christ_n for_o as_o he_o be_v relate_v unto_o his_o church_n as_o a_o saviour_n and_o a_o father_n respect_v his_o grace_n and_o love_a kindness_n so_o he_o be_v as_o well_o a_o judge_n and_o a_o legislator_n and_o so_o may_v just_o chastise_v his_o church_n as_o contemner_n and_o transgressor_n of_o his_o royal_a law_n if_o he_o call_v we_o to_o repent_v which_o be_v part_n of_o his_o new_a covenant_n law_n as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o yet_o go_v on_o obstinate_o in_o sin_n just_o may_v he_o remove_v his_o candlestick_n from_o among_o we_o if_o his_o lamblike_a quality_n of_o mercy_n and_o grace_n will_v not_o invite_v we_o to_o return_v he_o can_v rote_n as_o the_o lion_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o judah_n which_o will_v cause_v we_o to_o call_v upon_o the_o mountain_n to_o fall_v upon_o we_o and_o to_o hide_v we_o from_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lamb_n wherefore_o they_o be_v much_o mistake_v that_o will_v shut_v out_o as_o useless_a the_o doctrine_n of_o threat_n and_o judgement_n from_o the_o gospel_n which_o be_v to_o be_v preach_v sober_o and_o conditional_a not_o peremptory_a and_o absolute_a for_o if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o curb_n and_o fear_v of_o loss_n and_o punishment_n the_o wanton_a stray_a soul_n will_v hardly_o be_v reclaim_v though_o the_o more_o tender_a heart_a the_o apprehension_n of_o grace_n and_o love_n may_v reclaim_v and_o mollify_v observe_v 3._o another_o observation_n be_v to_o take_v off_o god_n candlestick_n or_o to_o unchurch_n a_o nation_n or_o people_n be_v the_o most_o grievous_a of_o all_o god_n judgement_n christ_n can_v not_o afflict_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n with_o a_o great_a loss_n then_o to_o remove_v his_o church_n from_o among_o they_o for_o hereby_o first_o privative_o his_o glory_n and_o special_a presence_n of_o grace_n and_o favour_n be_v withdraw_v second_o the_o guidance_n light_n and_o comfort_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n be_v depart_v three_o his_o ordinance_n be_v all_o defile_v and_o vanish_v four_o his_o special_a protection_n be_v withdraw_v also_o five_o and_o last_o instead_o of_o his_o gracious_a presence_n they_o have_v his_o presence_n in_o wrath_n judgement_n and_o fiery_a indignation_n instead_o of_o his_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o comfort_n they_o have_v the_o dismal_a spirit_n of_o darkness_n error_n and_o despair_n instead_o of_o christ_n holy_a ordinance_n they_o have_v the_o devil_n sacrifice_n and_o instead_o of_o god_n special_a protection_n over_o they_o they_o be_v carry_v captive_n by_o satan_n to_o all_o foul_a and_o
christ_n hate_v it_o and_o his_o church_n hate_v it_o and_o therefore_o sure_o it_o have_v some_o poisonous_a and_o pestilential_a quality_n in_o it_o sometime_o it_o amount_v so_o far_o as_o to_o defile_v both_o judgement_n and_o practice_v joint_o as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o this_o it_o most_o frequent_o do_v unless_o in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o the_o appearance_n of_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n will_v seem_v better_o with_o satan_n design_n for_o if_o the_o theoretique_n part_n of_o the_o understanding_n be_v not_o sound_a the_o practic_a can_v hardly_o be_v straight_o where_o the_o light_n of_o the_o eye_n be_v darken_v our_o foot_n will_v soon_o stumble_v and_o the_o will_n and_o judgement_n be_v so_o link_v together_o that_o some_o make_v the_o will_v to_o be_v the_o last_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o the_o practic_a part_n of_o the_o judgement_n so_o near_o they_o be_v relate_v into_o oneness_n that_o the_o contagion_n of_o the_o one_o will_v be_v the_o defilement_n of_o the_o other_o yet_o second_o satan_n be_v so_o serpentine_a and_o crafty_a that_o often_o he_o can_v restrain_v the_o will_n and_o put_v on_o the_o form_n of_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o set_v on_o a_o strict_a garb_n of_o holiness_n and_o mortification_n then_o ordinary_a even_o unto_o a_o erenetique_a monastical_a conversation_n deny_v the_o lawful_a comfort_n of_o humane_a life_n and_o society_n that_o he_o may_v make_v the_o great_a impression_n to_o deceive_v thereby_o as_o he_o do_v in_o some_o of_o the_o crafty_a deceive_a heretic_n of_o these_o day_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o christ_n faithful_a one_o but_o their_o honour_n and_o glory_n and_o their_o crown_n to_o abominate_a and_o hate_v all_o such_o deed_n and_o mystery_n of_o satan_n even_o as_o they_o be_v abominate_v and_o hate_v by_o christ_n himself_o verse_n 7._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o taste_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n the_o ear_n be_v the_o chief_a instrument_n or_o organ_n by_o which_o we_o hear_v and_o the_o spirit_n set_v it_o here_o metonimical_o for_o hear_v itself_o such_o a_o hear_n or_o right_a understanding_n as_o be_v mention_v in_o rom._n 10.17_o as_o come_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o a_o sagacious_a and_o diligent_a prepend_v of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n stir_v up_o and_o warm_v by_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o such_o a_o hear_n or_o such_o a_o ear_n be_v here_o call_v as_o competent_o fit_a for_o the_o comprehension_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o these_o prophecy_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o there_o be_v chief_o require_v a_o spiritualised_a and_o enlighten_v reason_n and_o a_o well_o order_v judgement_n for_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n holy_a and_o good_a affection_n without_o sound_a knowledge_n will_v not_o reach_v it_o it_o be_v for_o he_o that_o have_v understanding_n that_o must_v count_v the_o number_n of_o the_o beast_n rev._n 13.18_o god_n have_v give_v diversity_n of_o gift_n to_o his_o church_n for_o the_o profit_n of_o the_o whole_a some_o one_o be_v excellent_a for_o a_o interpretation_n of_o tongue_n another_o for_o prophecy_n another_o for_o exhortation_n another_o for_o a_o psalm_n another_o for_o gubernation_n and_o discipline_n another_o be_v excellent_a about_o justification_n another_o about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o holiness_n and_o sanctification_n other_o again_o be_v for_o unlock_v prophetical_a deep_n and_o mystery_n etc._n etc._n so_o every_o one_o have_v their_o variety_n of_o gift_n and_o excellency_n that_o the_o body_n may_v be_v complete_v and_o make_v perfect_a by_o the_o co-assistance_n and_o harmony_n of_o the_o whole_a let_v it_o not_o seem_v strange_a that_o this_o book_n be_v dark_a and_o difficult_a to_o the_o supine_n and_o lazy_a christian_n it_o be_v only_o for_o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o speak_v unto_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v inquire_v into_o it_o can_v be_v understand_v neither_o angel_n nor_o the_o holy_a spirit_n personal_o consider_v for_o in_o the_o next_o immediate_a verse_n the_o same_o spirit_n be_v call_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a now_o this_o must_v be_v christ_n who_o appear_v unto_o john_n not_o in_o his_o humanity_n but_o spiritual_o in_o his_o deity_n under_o the_o figure_n and_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n review_n v._n 13._o of_o the_o first_o chapter_n more_o full_o to_o this_o purpose_n and_o here_o he_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n to_o denote_v observe_v that_o christ_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o not_o only_o in_o property_n and_o quality_n with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n but_o in_o essence_n also_o he_o have_v the_o incommunicable_a property_n of_o the_o father_n in_o the_o word_n in_o the_o next_o verse_n and_o precedent_a chapter_n v._o 4_o 8_o &_o 17._o who_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o in_o vers_fw-la 18._o of_o this_o chapter_n he_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o in_o this_o verse_n he_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n all_o make_v up_o this_o harmonious_a conclusion_n and_o truth_n that_o christ_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o everlasting_a father_n son_n and_o spirit_n our_o god_n bless_v for_o ever_o observe_v another_o note_n from_o these_o word_n be_v that_o every_o wise_a and_o judicious_a christian_n ought_v to_o be_v very_a intent_n and_o inquire_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o and_o about_o all_o his_o providential_a deal_n and_o discovery_n towards_o his_o church_n abroad_o in_o the_o world_n what_o god_n speak_v unto_o his_o church_n be_v not_o of_o a_o private_a interpretation_n but_o of_o a_o public_a concernment_n unto_o all_o other_o if_o god_n have_v deal_v in_o judgement_n and_o righteousness_n with_o those_o asiatic_a church_n and_o for_o their_o abound_a iniquity_n unrepented_a of_o have_v anathematise_v and_o utter_o unchurch_v they_o all_o think_v not_o that_o we_o shall_v go_v free_a if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o transgression_n with_o they_o there_o be_v other_o church_n too_o as_o well_o as_o these_o once_o famous_a for_o their_o faith_n and_o piety_n now_o become_v the_o den_n of_o dragon_n and_o habitation_n of_o all_o unclean_a spirit_n therefore_o to_o avoid_v the_o stroke_n of_o divine_a judgement_n by_o a_o timely_a repentance_n how_o behoveful_a and_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n for_o be_v sure_a if_o we_o run_v the_o same_o course_n of_o sin_n with_o they_o we_o shall_v drink_v the_o same_o cup_n of_o indignation_n with_o they_o also_o if_o we_o continue_v obstinate_a and_o repent_v not_o for_o god_n be_v the_o same_o immutable_a be_v just_a and_o righteous_a and_o a_o hater_n of_o all_o iniquity_n today_o and_o for_o ever_o but_o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v hold_v out_o against_o the_o spiritual_a assault_n of_o satan_n and_o so_o overcome_v his_o temptation_n will_v i_o give_v say_v christ_n to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n here_o we_o have_v the_o triumphant_a christian_a conqueror_n describe_v together_o with_o his_o crown_n and_o reward_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v the_o conqueror_n the_o reward_n be_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n but_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v ask_v wherein_o shall_v a_o christian_n combatant_n overcome_v to_o denominate_v he_o a_o true_a conqueror_n and_o to_o overcome_v indeed_o i_o answer_v as_o god_n have_v furnish_v we_o with_o variety_n of_o spiritual_a weapon_n and_o armoury_n from_o himself_o which_o be_v mighty_a through_o god_n to_o pull_v down_o the_o strong_a hold_v of_o satan_n so_o we_o have_v divers_a and_o various_a stratagem_n and_o wile_n of_o he_o to_o meet_v with_o in_o our_o christian_n warfare_n here_o beneath_o we_o have_v not_o only_o to_o fight_v with_o our_o corruption_n within_o but_o we_o must_v meet_v with_o divers_a assault_n of_o satan_n also_o from_o without_o enticement_n and_o allurement_n to_o false_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n and_o if_o we_o comply_v not_o we_o may_v be_v sure_a to_o meet_v his_o buffet_n from_o without_o in_o revile_n reproach_n affliction_n etc._n etc._n and_o often_o as_o paul_n do_v fight_v with_o unreasonable_a and_o bestial_a man_n as_o he_o do_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o beast_n at_o ephesus_n so_o that_o he_o that_o overcome_v to_o
proper_o the_o first_o paradise_n may_v serve_v to_o typify_v or_o represent_v the_o second_o paradise_n or_o new_a church-state_n or_o heaven_n which_o christ_n will_v restore_v unto_o his_o faithful_a one_o before_o the_o ultimate_a day_n and_o end_n of_o all_o see_v more_o on_o the_o 21_o and_o 22_o chapter_n verse_n 8._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n in_o smyrna_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a verse_n 9_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o tribulation_n and_o poverty_n but_o thou_o be_v rich_a and_o i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n christ_n have_v finish_v his_o charge_n to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n go_v on_o on_o the_o same_o account_n with_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o command_v the_o angel_n or_o chief_a pastor_n or_o minister_n of_o the_o say_a church_n who_o as_o ireneus_fw-la testify_v be_v policarpus_fw-la scholar_n unto_o s._n john_n to_o write_v those_o thing_n for_o they_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o which_o he_o be_v about_o to_o discover_v to_o they_o the_o person_n that_o give_v out_o these_o discovery_n and_o charge_n to_o the_o church_n be_v here_o plain_o manifest_v to_o be_v christ_n who_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a as_o in_o v._o 18._o of_o the_o precedent_a chapter_n more_o full_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o discovery_n be_v whole_o of_o encouragement_n and_o approbation_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o tribulation_n and_o poverty_n but_o thou_o be_v rich_a that_o be_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n thou_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o the_o trouble_n affliction_n and_o tribulation_n that_o thou_o endure_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o opprobrious_a scandalous_a and_o revile_v speech_n which_o those_o cast_n out_o against_o thou_o which_o call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o be_v not_o and_o i_o know_v thy_o poverty_n and_o scantiness_n in_o worldly_a riches_n but_o i_o add_v withal_o thou_o be_v rich_a in_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o though_o thou_o be_v account_v poor_a in_o this_o world_n yet_o thou_o have_v treasure_n abide_v for_o thou_o in_o heaven_n and_o withal_o i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o also_o know_v and_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o revile_v speech_n that_o those_o which_o call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o so_o perhaps_o be_v so_o by_o blood_n and_o yet_o be_v not_o true_a jew_n true_a spiritual_a israelite_n but_o rather_o by_o reason_n of_o their_o unbelief_n and_o malicious_a practice_n and_o persecution_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o be_v the_o very_a devil_n be_v disciple_n and_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n here_o be_v a_o twofold_a knowledge_n or_o several_a act_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o knowledge_n and_o far_o different_a the_o one_o from_o the_o other_o the_o one_o be_v a_o knowledge_n of_o approbation_n love_n and_o complacency_n the_o other_o of_o hatred_n and_o abhorrency_n christ_n know_v the_o work_n of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n of_o her_o tribulation_n persecution_n and_o poverty_n and_o love_v she_o and_o honour_n she_o for_o it_o christ_n also_o know_v the_o work_n of_o her_o adversary_n of_o blasphemy_n reproach_n and_o enticement_n to_o evil_a against_o the_o true_a professor_n of_o godliness_n and_o not_o only_o hate_v they_o for_o it_o but_o set_v a_o character_n of_o ignominy_n upon_o their_o head_n for_o ever_o for_o what_o may_v be_v more_o reproachful_a or_o stigmatise_v then_o for_o those_o that_o think_v themselves_o somewhat_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n that_o call_v themselves_o jew_n the_o keeper_n of_o the_o oracle_n and_o mystery_n of_o god_n yet_o indeed_o to_o be_v just_o number_v among_o the_o disciple_n of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n that_o be_v of_o the_o devil_n be_v church_n for_o the_o word_n synagogue_n in_o the_o greek_a signify_v so_o much_o as_o convention_n meet_v or_o church_n which_o be_v common_o use_v now_o in_o the_o worse_a sense_n which_o be_v appropriate_v first_o chief_o to_o the_o jewish_a pharisaical_a and_o priestly_a meeting_n and_o call_v the_o jewish_a synagogue_n but_o christian_n have_v renounce_v the_o name_n and_o thing_n have_v appropriate_v to_o their_o meeting_n or_o convention_n a_o more_o significant_a name_n to_o wit_n the_o church_n ecclesia_fw-la and_o leave_v the_o synagogue_n to_o unbelieve_a jew_n antichrist_n and_o the_o devil_n to_o nourish_v their_o disciple_n in_o from_o christ_n take_v knowledge_n with_o approbation_n of_o the_o work_n and_o tribulation_n of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n see_v the_o note_n on_o v._o 2._o of_o this_o chapter_n to_o which_o i_o refer_v but_o from_o this_o verse_n explain_v one_o note_n shall_v be_v observe_v that_o a_o poor_a afflict_a and_o persecute_a church_n of_o christ_n be_v more_o dear_a precious_a and_o rich_a in_o his_o eye_n than_o all_o other_o the_o potent_a rich_a and_o mighty_a society_n in_o the_o world_n christ_n look_v upon_o the_o latter_a but_o with_o a_o eye_n of_o common_a providence_n as_o the_o sun_n shine_v and_o shower_n fall_v on_o the_o field_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o unrighteous_a alike_o herein_o there_o be_v no_o distinction_n of_o love_n or_o mercy_n god_n equal_o dispense_v those_o common_a gift_n equal_o alike_o unto_o all_o neither_o be_v any_o one_o to_o be_v account_v godly_a or_o ungodly_a elect_a or_o reprobate_a from_o the_o abound_a or_o want_v thereof_o for_o some_o godly_a have_v abound_v and_o other_o have_v want_v herein_o but_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n they_o have_v distinguish_v mercy_n their_o affliction_n and_o tear_n be_v treasure_v up_o in_o a_o bottle_n of_o remembrance_n for_o a_o reward_n and_o crown_n unto_o they_o they_o be_v as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n his_o jewel_n member_n of_o his_o mystical_a body_n and_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v dear_a unto_o he_o for_o no_o man_n ever_o hate_v his_o own_o flesh_n for_o they_o the_o world_n be_v make_v and_o be_v preserve_v and_o continue_v to_o this_o day_n for_o their_o sake_n and_o i_o dare_v be_v bold_a to_o affirm_v if_o there_o be_v none_o of_o his_o elect_a member_n on_o earth_n the_o world_n will_v soon_o see_v its_o night_n and_o period_n and_o forthwith_o relapse_n to_o its_o primitive_a and_o everlasting_a chaos_n or_o at_o least_o pass_v away_o and_o perish_v that_o its_o place_n be_v no_o more_o find_v christ_n be_v still_o walk_v among_o those_o golden_a candlestick_n view_v their_o order_n and_o take_v his_o delight_n in_o those_o garden_n and_o bed_n of_o spice_n and_o so_o get_v up_o early_o into_o these_o vineyard_n to_o see_v if_o the_o vine_n flourish_n whether_o the_o tender_a grape_n appear_v and_o the_o pomegranate_n bud_v forth_o cant._n 7.12_o his_o delight_n be_v ever_o to_o be_v with_o the_o child_n of_o man_n and_o take_v much_o pleasure_n not_o only_o in_o see_v and_o smell_v the_o savoury_a exercise_n and_o spiritual_a sacrifice_n of_o the_o more_o grow_v christian_n but_o also_o take_v much_o complacency_n in_o view_v the_o growth_n production_n and_o fruitfulness_n of_o young_a christian_n and_o lead_v they_o gentle_o by_o the_o hand_n by_o his_o doctrine_n and_o discipline_n until_o at_o last_o they_o be_v bring_v unto_o the_o wine-cellar_n of_o his_o love_n where_o he_o bid_v they_o to_o take_v their_o fill_n of_o love_n but_o by_o the_o way_n comfort_v they_o with_o apple_n and_o stay_v they_o with_o flagon_n till_o at_o last_o he_o bring_v they_o home_o unto_o himself_o purify_v and_o cleanse_v by_o the_o purgatory_n of_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n as_o gold_n seven_o time_n try_v by_o the_o fire_n of_o the_o chymister_n the_o genuine_a use_n of_o this_o be_v to_o demonstrate_v the_o danger_n of_o persecution_n of_o christ_n member_n or_o church_n to_o all_o person_n in_o the_o world_n they_o be_v his_o member_n and_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v do_v to_o one_o of_o they_o it_o be_v do_v unto_o himself_o and_o better_o a_o millstone_n be_v hang_v about_o the_o neck_n of_o such_o offender_n and_o cast_v into_o the_o sea_n then_o to_o offend_v one_o of_o his_o little_a one_o the_o reason_n that_o christ_n church_n though_o afflict_a scorn_a or_o persecute_v be_v so_o dear_a and_o precious_a to_o he_o be_v first_o because_o they_o be_v his_o member_n and_o it_o be_v most_o natural_a to_o love_v one_o self_n for_o he_o that_o love_v not_o himself_o can_v love_v another_o and_o we_o be_v bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n second_o because_o of_o their_o grace_n and_o unction_n we_o have_v receive_v all_o of_o his_o fullness_n grace_n for_o grace_n and_o of_o the_o same_o anoint_v with_o himself_o though_o in_o a_o
we_o need_v not_o fear_v of_o want_n of_o persecution_n or_o tribulation_n for_o that_o be_v the_o common_a lot_n of_o all_o that_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n for_o satan_n be_v the_o great_a contriver_n and_o promoter_n of_o it_o observe_v 5._o from_o the_o word_n and_o you_o shall_v have_v tribulation_n ten_o day_n note_v that_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n people_n be_v but_o for_o a_o definite_a time_n and_o season_n the_o tribulation_n that_o pass_v over_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n be_v but_o for_o ten_o day_n that_o be_v ten_o prophetical_a day_n or_o year_n as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o but_o i_o rather_o shall_v understand_v ten_o day_n to_o be_v ten_o time_n of_o persecution_n for_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o day_n in_o prophetical_a writing_n do_v signify_v time_n as_o well_o as_o year_n as_o in_o that_o of_o dan._n 4.29_o seven_o time_n shall_v pass_v over_o thou_o and_o in_o verse_n 31._o it_o be_v render_v and_o at_o the_o end_n of_o those_o day_n i_o nabuchadnezzar_n lift_v up_o my_o eye_n to_o heaven_n rev._n 12.6_o compare_v to_o vers_n 14._o so_o that_o the_o high_a pitch_n of_o tribulation_n that_o shall_v happen_v to_o the_o church_n at_o smyrna_n shall_v be_v the_o ten_o great_a day_n or_o time_n of_o persecution_n that_o shall_v befall_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n under_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o red_a dragon_n the_o heathenish_a emperor_n seventy_o year_n be_v appoint_v to_o the_o jew_n captivity_n of_o babylon_n and_o the_o long_a day_n of_o tribulation_n that_o be_v to_o pass_v over_o god_n church_n that_o i_o read_v of_o in_o scripture_n be_v but_o a_o thousand_o two_o hundred_o and_o threescore_o day_n or_o two_o and_o forty_o month_n or_o a_o time_n time_n and_o half_a a_o time_n therefore_o the_o time_n be_v certain_a fixed_z and_o determinate_v in_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n that_o the_o godly_a may_v have_v hope_n to_o support_v their_o spirit_n and_o not_o faint_a under_o tribulation_n or_o 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and_o so_o god_n deal_v here_o with_o the_o smyrnian_o that_o they_o may_v be_v try_v that_o be_v refine_v from_o their_o dross_n and_o become_v more_o pure_a metal_n second_o god_n see_v or_o judge_v not_o as_o man_n judge_v we_o see_v nothing_o public_o lay_v to_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n but_o be_v set_v forth_o as_o one_o of_o the_o most_o eminent_a and_o fair_o of_o the_o seven_o sister_n church_n both_o for_o faith_n piety_n and_o suffering_n and_o worthy_o too_o she_o do_v deserve_v it_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o all_o yet_o god_n can_v foresee_v that_o she_o will_v turn_v wanton_a and_o prodigal_a as_o well_o as_o the_o rest_n and_o that_o she_o have_v the_o same_o heart_n of_o corruption_n within_o as_o the_o other_o have_v and_o therefore_o have_v need_n of_o the_o rod_n of_o correction_n to_o keep_v she_o close_o to_o christ_n and_o this_o in_o few_o age_n do_v appear_v by_o their_o iniquity_n whereby_o their_o candlestick_n be_v remove_v from_o among_o they_o three_o when_o god_n chastise_n and_o afflict_v his_o child_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o act_n of_o justice_n but_o of_o grace_n to_o you_o it_o be_v give_v to_o suffer_v say_v paul_n to_o the_o philippian_n 1.29_o it_o be_v a_o act_n of_o honour_n and_o service_n when_o we_o be_v single_v out_o to_o be_v martyr_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n before_o man_n and_o angel_n and_o hence_o the_o primitive_a saint_n act_n 5.41_o they_o go_v away_o rejoice_v that_o they_o be_v account_v worthy_a to_o suffer_v for_o christ_n yea_o they_o think_v themselves_o bastard_n and_o not_o belove_v child_n if_o god_n chasten_v they_o not_o it_o be_v god_n rod_n as_o well_o as_o staff_n do_v comfort_v they_o four_o another_o reason_n that_o god_n afflict_v his_o most_o innocent_a child_n and_o the_o godly_a be_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n be_v more_o propagate_v thereby_o what_o though_o the_o godly_a shall_v suffer_v death_n that_o be_v but_o gain_v unto_o they_o and_o the_o church_n also_o gain_v by_o it_o for_o the_o enemy_n of_o christ_n see_v their_o patience_n and_o fortitude_n have_v be_v often_o convert_v to_o the_o christian_a faith_n as_o antiquity_n testify_v sanguis_fw-la martyrum_fw-la semen_fw-mi ecclesiae_fw-la just_o as_o a_o oak_n that_o live_v by_o its_o own_o wound_n the_o more_o blood_n of_o christian_n be_v spill_v in_o the_o primitive_a day_n the_o more_o they_o be_v multiply_v the_o church_n be_v first_o found_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o it_o thrive_v best_o when_o they_o fulfil_v the_o remainder_n of_o the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o own_o body_n therefore_o think_v it_o not_o strange_a nor_o against_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n when_o he_o cast_v his_o child_n into_o divers_a tribulation_n last_o god_n do_v afflict_v his_o best_a child_n to_o try_v they_o the_o ordinary_a stroke_n of_o god_n providence_n as_o loss_n cross_n sickness_n and_o the_o like_a be_v more_o proper_o correction_n than_o trial_n correction_n great_a end_n be_v either_o to_o mortify_v sin_n or_o to_o keep_v from_o sin_n and_o to_o that_o end_n god_n often_o take_v the_o rod_n of_o affliction_n and_o correction_n into_o his_o hand_n but_o trial_n that_o god_n send_v we_o by_o satan_n or_o his_o instrument_n aim_v chief_o at_o the_o discovery_n and_o maintenance_n of_o our_o grace_n and_o therefore_o when_o such_o befall_v we_o they_o bring_v more_o inward_a comfort_n and_o experience_n with_o they_o then_o ordinary_a cross_n of_o providence_n according_a to_o that_o of_o 2_o cor._n 1.5_o for_o as_o the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n abound_v in_o we_o so_o also_o consolation_n abound_v by_o christ_n these_o be_v the_o two_o way_n that_o god_n carry_v his_o saint_n unto_o a_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n they_o must_v be_v first_o hew_v before_o they_o will_v make_v fit_a stone_n for_o the_o build_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n gold_n must_v pass_v through_o the_o refiner_n fire_n before_o it_o come_v unto_o its_o perfection_n trial_n and_o the_o cross_n though_o not_o meritorious_a for_o heaven_n yet_o be_v antecedent_n thereunto_o it_o be_v through_o much_o tribulation_n that_o we_o must_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n for_o we_o have_v much_o dross_n and_o sin_n within_o we_o to_o be_v cleanse_v from_o we_o before_o we_o shall_v be_v make_v meet_v for_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n col._n 1.12_o and_o this_o work_n be_v much_o promote_v by_o affliction_n which_o make_v we_o more_o heavenly_a and_o meet_v for_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n for_o before_o we_o be_v afflict_v as_o david_n we_o go_v astray_o but_o since_o we_o have_v cleaved_a close_a to_o his_o commandment_n wherefore_o when_o we_o enter_v into_o divers_a tribulation_n let_v we_o not_o judge_v that_o god_n have_v do_v it_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n but_o rather_o as_o a_o gracious_a father_n either_o to_o wean_v we_o from_o sin_n preserve_v we_o against_o sin_n or_o to_o approve_v and_o 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way_n be_v never_o like_a to_o win_v the_o prize_n heaven_n be_v set_v forth_o as_o a_o crown_n and_o reward_n of_o our_o faithfulness_n though_o not_o for_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o work_n but_o according_a to_o the_o work_n it_o be_v free_o give_v as_o wicked_a work_n shall_v not_o pass_v unpunished_a neither_o shall_v good_a work_n or_o our_o faithfulness_n towards_o christ_n pass_v unrewarded_a every_o one_o shall_v receive_v according_a as_o he_o have_v do_v in_o the_o flesh_n whether_o good_a or_o evil_n and_o he_o that_o have_v fight_v the_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n and_o persevere_fw-la therein_o under_o all_o affliction_n and_o that_o even_o to_o death_n he_o be_v the_o true_a christian_n conqueror_n and_o for_o he_o be_v lay_v up_o the_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n the_o true_a militant_a christian_n must_v not_o look_v for_o the_o crown_n if_o he_o turn_v back_o to_o the_o enemy_n and_o that_o which_o be_v most_o admirable_a herein_o be_v that_o the_o method_n of_o obtain_v this_o crown_n be_v far_o different_a from_o that_o of_o obtain_v worldly_a crown_n they_o be_v get_v by_o overmastering_a and_o survive_a the_o enemy_n but_o the_o christian_n crown_n be_v get_v by_o suffering_n and_o die_v the_o christian_n cross_n and_o the_o crown_n kiss_v each_o other_o and_o to_o set_v you_o right_n that_o seek_v after_o and_o contend_v for_o this_o crown_n first_o understand_v what_o this_o crown_n of_o life_n be_v it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o translation_n of_o the_o soul_n after_o death_n into_o the_o supernal_a heaven_n that_o be_v not_o so_o proper_o call_v life_n but_o that_o bless_a state_n which_o soul_n and_o body_n shall_v enjoy_v after_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o just_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n that_o be_v life_n give_v most_o eminent_o which_o be_v the_o most_o desirable_a blessing_n of_o all_o thing_n as_o be_v one_o of_o the_o chief_a gift_n of_o the_o bless_a saint_n in_o the_o resurrection_n and_o so_o part_n be_v put_v for_o the_o whole_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v here_o call_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n to_o denote_v unto_o we_o first_o that_o that_o bless_a state_n of_o life_n which_o the_o saint_n shall_v then_o enjoy_v will_v be_v a_o most_o honourable_a state_n and_o so_o it_o be_v often_o set_v forth_o by_o a_o kingdom_n in_o scripture_n luk._n 22.29.12.32_o rev._n 3.21_o second_o that_o it_o be_v a_o endless_a estate_n three_o that_o it_o be_v a_o state_n get_v by_o conquest_n and_o as_o a_o prize_n set_v unto_o a_o race_n 1_o cor._n 9.24_o four_o that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o glorious_a estate_n and_o a_o live_a crown_n and_o that_o that_o will_v continue_v to_o all_o eternity_n second_o in_o the_o next_o place_n understand_v how_o this_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n be_v right_o to_o be_v obtain_v every_o suffering_n will_v not_o do_v it_o the_o cause_n must_v be_v good_a that_o make_v a_o martyr_n it_o must_v be_v for_o christ_n and_o that_o in_o faithfulness_n second_o the_o heart_n must_v be_v upright_o for_o christ_n therein_o it_o be_v not_o vainglory_n or_o worldly_a applause_n or_o obstinacy_n in_o private_a opinion_n that_o will_v weigh_v the_o least_o to_o make_v a_o martyr_n it_o must_v be_v in_o the_o uprightness_n of_o your_o heart_n and_o that_o you_o can_v appeal_v unto_o god_n with_o the_o psalmist_n psal_n 44.21_o and_o say_v the_o lord_n know_v the_o secret_n of_o the_o heart_n yea_o for_o thy_o sake_n be_v we_o slay_v all_o the_o day_n long_o last_o this_o suffering_n must_v be_v out_o of_o love_n unto_o god_n and_o his_o glory_n or_o else_o all_o in_o vain_a as_o paul_n say_v 1_o cor._n 13.3_o if_o i_o give_v my_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v and_o have_v not_o love_n it_o profit_v i_o nothing_o there_o may_v many_o die_v for_o christ_n and_o yet_o not_o out_o of_o love_n to_o christ_n obstinacy_n of_o mind_n and_o formal_a profession_n may_v do_v much_o in_o that_o particular_a but_o a_o true_a zeal_n to_o god_n and_o his_o glory_n make_v the_o holocost_n a_o sweet_a smell_a sacrifice_n and_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n its_o reward_n observe_v the_o last_o observation_n from_o these_o word_n be_v suffering_n and_o affliction_n be_v but_o the_o open_n the_o door_n to_o a_o christian_n happiness_n the_o most_o happy_a estate_n of_o the_o worldling_n be_v but_o vanity_n and_o the_o most_o suffer_a state_n of_o a_o christian_n be_v a_o crown_n when_o the_o christian_n suffer_v the_o loss_n of_o all_o thing_n for_o righteousness_n sake_n he_o abound_v then_o in_o great_a measure_n of_o grace_n yea_o when_o he_o suffer_v death_n itself_o it_o be_v gain_v unto_o he_o for_o he_o have_v only_o leave_v thereby_o a_o world_n of_o trouble_n sin_n and_o vanity_n for_o a_o crown_n or_o life_n and_o glory_n for_o if_o our_o hope_n be_v only_o in_o this_o life_n we_o be_v of_o all_o man_n most_o miserable_a therefore_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o thou_o shall_v have_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n verse_n 11._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n he_o that_o overcome_v shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n the_o spirit_n do_v often_o inculcate_v in_o this_o and_o the_o next_o chapter_n this_o charge_n and_o duty_n on_o the_o judicious_a and_o enlighten_v christian_n to_o take_v notice_n what_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o spiritual_a appearance_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o avoid_v repetition_n see_v more_o on_o this_o on_o verse_n 7._o of_o this_o chapter_n but_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v that_o abide_v constant_a and_o faithful_a unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n under_o all_o temptation_n and_o tribulation_n and_o so_o a_o faithful_a christian_n overcome_v it_o be_v he_o that_o shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n that_o be_v the_o second_o death_n mention_v in_o 21_o chap._n rev._n ver_fw-la 8._o and_o 20.14_o in_o that_o lake_n which_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n for_o evermore_o shall_v not_o touch_v he_o negative_n in_o scripture_n strong_o evince_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o contrary_a as_o thou_o shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n that_o be_v thou_o shall_v sure_o live_v thou_o shall_v taste_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n and_o a_o crown_n of_o life_n shall_v be_v thy_o portion_n it_o be_v here_o call_v the_o second_o death_n in_o respect_n the_o first_o death_n be_v but_o a_o partial_a punishment_n of_o the_o wicked_a but_o the_o second_o death_n be_v that_o when_o the_o first_o death_n and_o hell_n shall_v deliver_v up_o the_o dead_a be_v in_o they_o and_o they_o shall_v be_v cast_v into_o the_o lake_n of_o fire_n cap._n 20._o 13_o 14._o there_o be_v a_o first_o life_n and_o a_o second_o life_n that_o we_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o first_o life_n be_v that_o that_o we_o now_o at_o present_a enjoy_v the_o life_n of_o grace_n the_o second_o life_n we_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o at_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o just_a the_o life_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o heaven_n enjoy_v be_v but_o a_o partial_a life_n and_o incomplete_a in_o respect_n of_o that_o at_o the_o resurrection_n as_o the_o punishment_n of_o the_o wicked_a under_o the_o first_o death_n either_o spiritual_a or_o corporal_a be_v but_o partial_a so_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o elect_a be_v but_o partial_a and_o incomplete_a now_o in_o heaven_n in_o respect_n of_o that_o that_o will_v be_v reveal_v at_o the_o resurrection_n abraham_n now_o do_v not_o know_v we_o and_o jacob_n be_v ignorant_a of_o we_o neither_o do_v the_o faint_v depart_v know_v our_o want_n nor_o be_v touch_v with_o our_o infirmity_n their_o condition_n be_v happy_a but_o what_o it_o be_v we_o know_v not_o but_o this_o we_o be_v sure_a of_o at_o the_o resurrection_n we_o shall_v know_v as_o we_o be_v know_v and_o see_v as_o we_o be_v see_v and_o this_o be_v eternal_a life_n and_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n that_o be_v so_o often_o promise_v to_o the_o saint_n in_o scripture_n so_o then_o there_o be_v a_o first_o death_n and_o a_o second_o death_n the_o first_o death_n be_v but_o a_o partial_a punishment_n for_o the_o wicked_a but_o the_o second_o death_n be_v the_o complete_a execution_n of_o divine_a wrath_n upon_o they_o in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n for_o evermore_o observe_v the_o observation_n from_o the_o word_n be_v that_o the_o constant_a faithful_a and_o persevere_v christian_n be_v secure_v from_o all_o danger_n of_o death_n whatsoever_o tribulation_n in_o this_o life_n and_o death_n itself_o do_v he_o no_o hurt_n that_o try_v he_o refine_v he_o and_o render_v he_o glorious_a into_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o creator_n hell_n
satan_n law_n nor_o the_o second_o death_n can_v take_v hold_n upon_o he_o for_o it_o be_v christ_n that_o die_v for_o he_o for_o who_o shall_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o god_n elect_n it_o be_v christ_n that_o be_v rise_v for_o their_o justification_n therefore_o they_o be_v beyond_o all_o danger_n of_o miscarry_v and_o so_o may_v just_o triumph_v and_o say_v o_o death_n where_o be_v thy_o sting_n hell_n where_o be_v thy_o victory_n but_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n who_o have_v give_v we_o the_o victory_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n 1_o cor._n 15._o verse_n 12._o and_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o pergamus_n write_v this_o say_v he_o which_o have_v the_o sharp_a sword_n with_o two_o edge_n christ_n here_o follow_v the_o charge_n against_o the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n it_o be_v inscribe_v to_o the_o angel_n or_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o pergamus_n and_o in_o the_o 18._o vers_fw-la follow_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o thyatira_n the_o spirit_n herein_o clear_o denote_v unto_o we_o that_o the_o inscription_n in_o the_o first_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n or_o of_o the_o ephesian_a church_n and_o here_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n or_o in_o pergamus_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o significant_a and_o latitude_n and_o therefore_o such_o place_n be_v very_o incongruous_o take_v up_o to_o prove_v a_o church_n of_o the_o same_o extent_n and_o latitude_n with_o the_o nation_n and_o though_o we_o may_v lawful_o use_v the_o term_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n of_o scotland_n france_n etc._n etc._n it_o must_v always_o be_v understand_v in_o a_o limit_a sense_n not_o that_o all_o england_n scotland_n france_n ephesus_n smyrna_n or_o pergamus_n be_v the_o church_n but_o that_o it_o be_v the_o church_n of_o england_n or_o in_o england_n of_o ephesus_z or_o in_o or_o at_o ephesus_n of_o pergamus_n or_o rather_o as_o it_o be_v here_o in_o pergamus_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o or_o at_o thyatira_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v most_o safe_a to_o keep_v close_o to_o the_o sound_n of_o wholesome_a word_n in_o such_o expression_n write_v this_o say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o sharp_a sword_n with_o two_o edge_n christ_n set_v himself_o forth_o unto_o each_o church_n in_o a_o diverse_a mode_n john_n see_v he_o in_o the_o first_o chapter_n in_o a_o general_n and_o full_a appearance_n and_o discovery_n of_o himself_o in_o his_o full_a lustre_n and_o now_o he_o discover_v himself_o by_o part_n unto_o the_o church_n according_a to_o their_o several_a want_n and_o imperfection_n where_o by_o the_o way_n take_v this_o note_n observe_v that_o christ_n discovery_n of_o himself_o unto_o his_o church_n be_v always_o most_o suitable_a to_o their_o present_a condition_n to_o afflict_a and_o persecute_v faithful_a church_n as_o ephesus_n and_o smyrna_n be_v he_o appear_v as_o a_o god_n of_o protection_n and_o salvation_n unto_o they_o as_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n under_o the_o description_n of_o have_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o in_o the_o eight_o verse_n he_o say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n for_o a_o comfortable_a discovery_n unto_o they_o write_z these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o be_v first_o and_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a but_o now_o unto_o the_o more_o unsound_a and_o corrupt_a church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n his_o discovery_n be_v in_o another_o posture_n as_o one_o have_v a_o two_o edge_a sword_n proceed_v from_o his_o mouth_n and_o eye_n like_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o his_o foot_n like_o fine_a brass_n v._o 18._o a_o appearance_n of_o indignation_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n faithful_a afflict_a christian_n need_v discovery_n of_o grace_n peace_n and_o consolation_n but_o unfound_a and_o corrupt_a one_o aught_o to_o have_v the_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o wrath_n preach_v unto_o they_o he_o that_o know_v not_o right_o to_o divide_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n be_v no_o complete_a workman_n in_o christ_n vineyard_n he_o be_v a_o workman_n that_o need_v not_o be_v ashamed_a that_o know_v how_o to_o preach_v gospel_n and_o glad_a tiding_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o peace_n to_o poor_a humble_a and_o repentant_a sinner_n but_o hell_n and_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n and_o fiery_a indignation_n to_o the_o obstinate_a and_o impenitent_a the_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o threat_n be_v not_o contradictory_n be_v wise_o manage_v yet_o in_o this_o appearance_n of_o christ_n of_o have_v a_o sharp_a two_o edge_a sword_n proceed_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n there_o be_v much_o mercy_n in_o it_o for_o understand_v that_o by_o the_o sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n be_v mean_v his_o word_n and_o doctrine_n confer_v with_o heb._n 4.12_o psal_n 148.6_o and_o 56.5_o prov._n 5.4_o for_o that_o be_v two_o edge_a and_o cut_v two_o way_n first_o it_o cut_v off_o the_o sin_n and_o corruption_n of_o the_o faithful_a by_o its_o kindly_a operate_n through_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o spirit_n second_o it_o cut_v confound_v and_o destroy_v the_o wicked_a not_o through_o any_o innate_a quality_n in_o the_o word_n but_o by_o accident_n for_o by_o their_o refusal_n and_o contempt_n thereof_o so_o consequent_o of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n the_o author_n and_o instituter_n thereof_o god_n go_v out_o with_o the_o other_o edge_n or_o side_n of_o his_o sword_n against_o they_o on_o his_o black_a and_o red_a horse_n of_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o god_n judgement_n towards_o his_o back-slidden_a church_n be_v mingle_v with_o much_o mercy_n though_o christ_n appearance_n to_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n be_v much_o in_o wrath_n for_o their_o defilement_n and_o backslide_n yet_o he_o add_v much_o grace_n and_o mercy_n thereunto_o both_o in_o approbation_n of_o their_o grace_n and_o call_v they_o to_o repentance_n for_o their_o defection_n christ_n give_v always_o line_n upon_o line_n and_o precept_n upon_o precept_n providence_n after_o providence_n and_o mercy_n after_o mercy_n to_o invite_v we_o to_o repentance_n before_o he_o will_v take_v his_o last_o cause_n of_o judgement_n with_o we_o his_o heart_n be_v still_o towards_o our_o amendment_n though_o he_o be_v provoke_v high_o by_o our_o sin_n against_o we_o and_o who_o but_o a_o heart_n of_o adamant_n will_v not_o believe_v he_o when_o he_o swear_v as_o i_o live_v say_v the_o lord_n i_o will_v not_o the_o death_n of_o a_o sinner_n but_o rather_o that_o he_o shall_v turn_v and_o live_v and_o the_o very_a weapon_n that_o he_o use_v against_o sinner_n be_v the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n with_o two_o edge_n it_o heal_v as_o well_o as_o wound_n the_o one_o edge_n be_v anoint_v with_o the_o balm_n of_o grace_n though_o the_o other_o with_o the_o gall_n of_o judgement_n verse_n 13._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o where_o thou_o dwell_v even_o where_o satan_n seat_n be_v and_o thou_o helde_v fast_v my_o name_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n even_o in_o those_o day_n wherein_o antipas_n be_v my_o faithful_a martyr_n who_o be_v slay_v among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v christ_n in_o the_o first_o place_n go_v on_o in_o the_o approbation_n and_o encouragement_n of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o tell_v she_o that_o he_o know_v her_o work_n and_o that_o her_o habitation_n or_o domestical_a conversation_n for_o so_o the_o word_n signify_v be_v in_o a_o place_n even_o where_o satan_n seat_n be_v or_o throne_n be_v as_o the_o orginal_a have_v it_o we_o know_v the_o seat_n or_o throne_n be_v take_v in_o scripture_n for_o the_o place_n or_o ensign_n of_o dominion_n rule_n or_o sway_v as_o psal_n 1._o v._n 1._o bless_a be_v he_o that_o sit_v not_o in_o the_o seat_n of_o the_o scornful_a that_o be_v in_o the_o society_n of_o such_o scorner_n as_o go_v on_o with_o a_o high_a hand_n and_o say_v their_o tongue_n be_v their_o own_o who_o shall_v we_o control_v as_o christ_n have_v his_o throne_n and_o seat_n so_o satan_n have_v he_o as_o christ_n go_v out_o as_o a_o absolute_a monarch_n in_o his_o kingdom_n have_v his_o royal_a law_n and_o command_n and_o the_o observer_n thereof_o therein_o so_o satan_n have_v also_o his_o kingdom_n and_o his_o throne_n set_v up_o therein_o where_o his_o command_n be_v obey_v by_o the_o childen_a of_o disobedience_n without_o control_n and_o therefore_o this_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d where_o the_o throne_n of_o satan_n be_v be_v render_v in_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o this_o verse_n in_o another_o variation_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d where_o satan_n dwell_v or_o do_v his_o household_n affair_n a_o man_n house_n
or_o habitation_n be_v his_o throne_n or_o his_o castle_n as_o the_o law_n term_n have_v it_o therein_o he_o exercise_v his_o command_n free_o either_o by_o his_o paternal_a or_o magisterial_a authority_n and_o he_o have_v better_a title_n to_o this_o sovereignty_n it_o be_v natural_a &_o moral_a than_o any_o sovereign_n have_v to_o they_o in_o the_o world_n 2._o there_o be_v therein_o its_o subject_n who_o obey_v more_o free_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o more_o divine_a oeconomy_n than_o any_o prince_n subject_n whatsoever_o three_o a_o man_n most_o private_a design_n and_o transaction_n be_v agitate_a therein_o four_o a_o man_n therein_o live_v go_v in_o and_o out_o and_o no_o place_n be_v it_o ever_o so_o pleasant_a be_v so_o complacent_fw-la to_o a_o man_n as_o the_o place_n of_o his_o own_o habitation_n be_v it_o never_o so_o homely_a and_o therefore_o a_o man_n will_v not_o spare_v to_o spend_v all_o his_o strength_n wit_n or_o wealth_n to_o defend_v his_o house_n &_o place_n of_o habitation_n against_o all_o pretender_n of_o right_a thereunto_o therefore_o these_o metaphor_n of_o a_o throne_n seat_n house_n or_o habitation_n be_v fit_o take_v up_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o signify_v unto_o we_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n in_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a which_o in_o scripture_n be_v call_v his_o strong_a hold_n and_o habitation_n for_o in_o they_o he_o command_v and_o act_n free_o be_v as_o a_o father_n lord_n and_o master_n to_o we_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n for_o his_o servant_n and_o child_n you_o be_v to_o who_o you_o obey_v and_o they_o obey_v free_o and_o without_o any_o regret_n as_o dutiful_a child_n and_o servant_n to_o such_o a_o father_n and_o master_n even_o the_o prince_n that_o rule_v in_o the_o air_n even_o the_o spirit_n that_o now_o work_v in_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n ephes_n 2.2_o there_o he_o make_v his_o habitation_n there_o he_o live_v and_o transact_v the_o high_a design_n of_o his_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n there_o he_o take_v his_o delight_n to_o dwell_v and_o take_v that_o pleasure_n in_o this_o place_n of_o his_o habitation_n that_o before_o he_o will_v forego_v it_o or_o lose_v a_o inch_n of_o his_o possession_n the_o strong_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n must_v first_o come_v even_o christ_n in_o his_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o after_o much_o struggle_a &_o contend_v between_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o that_o christ_n shall_v be_v sure_a to_o make_v his_o title_n clear_a and_o evident_a by_o faith_n and_o the_o great_a charter_n of_o the_o gospel_n before_o he_o will_v be_v dispossess_v of_o his_o ancient_a freehold_n tenor_n yea_o his_o love_n or_o rather_o pernicious_a desire_n to_o his_o old_a habitation_n be_v such_o that_o after_o he_o be_v dispossess_v thereof_o by_o christ_n that_o if_o he_o can_v get_v or_o make_v a_o reentry_n into_o his_o lose_a possession_n by_o his_o diabolical_a stratagem_n and_o temptation_n he_o come_v in_o with_o seven_o fold_n worse_a spirit_n than_o the_o first_o to_o make_v good_a his_o right_n and_o reentry_n if_o he_o may_v and_o the_o condition_n of_o that_o house_n be_v far_o more_o miserable_a then_o at_o the_o first_o o_o therefore_o watch_n and_o be_v prepare_v with_o the_o armoury_n of_o christ_n to_o oppose_v the_o assault_n of_o satan_n you_o believe_v and_o enlighten_v soul_n and_o though_o he_o sometime_o may_v foil_n you_o yet_o let_v he_o not_o overturn_v you_o though_o he_o may_v endeavour_v to_o come_v into_o your_o soul_n yet_o let_v he_o not_o have_v quiet_a possession_n for_o great_a be_v he_o that_o be_v with_o we_o than_o he_o that_o be_v against_o we_o resist_v the_o devil_n and_o he_o will_v flee_v from_o you_o and_o through_o christ_n we_o shall_v have_v victory_n note_v hence_o observe_v that_o satan_n rule_v as_o absolute_a lord_n and_o sovereign_n over_o the_o unbelieving_a and_o disobedient_a they_o be_v his_o house_n the_o place_n of_o his_o dwell_n his_o throne_n his_o kingdom_n his_o seat_n and_o if_o that_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o describe_v their_o malignity_n and_o satan_n sovereignty_n over_o they_o they_o be_v call_v satan_n himself_o v._o 10._o the_o better_a to_o manifest_v satan_n seat_n throne_n and_o habitation_n in_o and_o over_o the_o ungodly_a consider_v the_o contrary_a the_o seat_n throne_n and_o habitation_n of_o god_n though_o god_n in_o his_o infinite_a nature_n be_v illocal_a infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a as_o unto_o any_o place_n or_o form_n yet_o metaphorical_o be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o a_o place_n that_o be_v from_o whence_o he_o in_o any_o special_a manner_n do_v manifest_v his_o glory_n power_n grace_n and_o goodness_n so_o god_n be_v say_v to_o come_v depart_z and_o return_v in_o scripture_n when_o he_o special_o manifest_v himself_o in_o grace_n mercy_n and_o answer_n to_o his_o people_n or_o unto_o any_o particular_a believe_a soul_n and_o when_o god_n withdraw_v that_o appearance_n of_o mercy_n grace_n and_o glory_n nor_o hear_v the_o prayer_n of_o his_o people_n but_o go_v out_o in_o judgement_n against_o they_o than_o he_o be_v say_v to_o depart_v to_o be_v go_v and_o return_v into_o his_o place_n hos_fw-la 5.15_o i_o will_v go_v and_o return_v to_o my_o place_n till_o they_o acknowledge_v their_o offence_n god_n be_v say_v to_o have_v three_o special_a place_n of_o habitation_n seat_n or_o throne_n in_o scripture_n 1._o heaven_n be_v his_o throne_n and_o his_o dwell_a place_n isa_n 66.1_o 1_o king_n 8.30_o 2._o the_o heart_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v his_o throne_n and_o dwell_v place_n isa_n 57.15_o 1_o jo._n 3.24_o 3._o the_o church_n or_o christ_n zion_n be_v the_o habitation_n and_o tabernacle_n of_o his_o glory_n psal_n 132.13_o the_o church_n be_v the_o place_n where_o god_n communicate_v himself_o and_o give_v his_o answer_n unto_o his_o people_n and_o therefore_o in_o 1_o tim._n 3.15_o it_o be_v call_v the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o often_o in_o scripture_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o special_a habitation_n of_o god_n satan_n have_v also_o three_o special_a place_n of_o habitation_n and_o dominion_n in_o scripture_n 1._o in_o hell_n over_o the_o damn_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v call_v the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n and_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n 2._o the_o heart_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o unbeliever_n be_v the_o seat_n and_o habitation_n of_o satan_n ephes_n 2.2_o 3._o his_o throne_n be_v among_o the_o society_n of_o the_o wicked_a they_o be_v his_o synagogue_n v._o 9_o where_o his_o doctrine_n be_v transact_v and_o maintain_v and_o they_o be_v his_o seat_n and_o throne_n from_o whence_o all_o his_o wicked_a and_o pernicious_a edict_n do_v proceed_v against_o god_n and_o godliness_n psal_n 2.2_o 3._o therefore_o in_o this_o verse_n the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n i_o know_v that_o thou_o dwell_v in_o a_o place_n where_o satan_n bear_v rule_v in_o all_o idolatry_n wickedness_n and_o hatred_n to_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n without_o controlment_n and_o yet_o to_o thy_o praise_n and_o comfort_n be_v it_o that_o thou_o hold_v fast_v my_o name_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n that_o be_v that_o thou_o do_v constant_o profess_v my_o truth_n and_o have_v not_o be_v draw_v to_o deny_v my_o gospel_n or_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n not_o in_o those_o very_a hot_a and_o persecute_v day_n wherein_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v in_o that_o city_n of_o you_o by_o those_o tyrannical_a person_n there_o in_o who_o satan_n dwell_v and_o prevail_v there_o be_v no_o far_a difficulty_n in_o those_o word_n only_o understand_v that_o antipas_n as_o aretus_n testify_v and_o some_o other_o of_o antiquity_n be_v the_o pastor_n or_o bishop_n to_o this_o church_n of_o ephesus_n yet_o other_o say_v he_o be_v only_o a_o assistant_n to_o the_o church_n however_o this_o bless_a st._n antipas_n policarpus_fw-la and_o some_o other_o be_v the_o first_o martyr_n to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n after_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o reign_n of_o trajan_n from_o the_o word_n thus_o explain_v note_v obs_n 2._o that_o the_o godly_a by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n be_v dispose_v and_o mingle_v among_o the_o most_o vile_a and_o wicked_a in_o the_o world_n the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v liken_v to_o a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n by_o the_o wiseman_n in_o the_o canticle_n where_o the_o synagogue_n and_o throne_n of_o satan_n be_v god_n have_v plant_v those_o asiatic_a church_n righteous_a job_n say_v of_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v a_o brother_n to_o dragon_n and_o a_o companion_n to_o owl_n chap._n 30.29_o and_o holy_a david_n soul_n be_v vex_v by_o sojourn_v in_o mesech_n and_o dwell_v in_o the_o tent_n of_o kedar_n psal_n 120.5_o honest_a heart_a joseph_n have_v his_o habitation_n among_o the_o idolatrous_a egyptian_n and_o there_o
be_v ezekiel_n daniel_n and_o other_o of_o god_n precious_a child_n in_o babylon_n among_o the_o chaldaean_n it_o be_v the_o common_a lot_n of_o the_o godly_a to_o be_v among_o briar_n and_o thorn_n that_o will_v nothing_o but_o scratch_v and_o tear_v they_o and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v be_v no_o strange_a thing_n nor_o too_o great_a a_o vex_a burden_n unto_o we_o that_o god_n and_o providence_n have_v dispose_v of_o our_o habitation_n among_o the_o ungodly_a for_o hereby_o 1._o god_n have_v the_o great_a glory_n from_o we_o 2._o we_o be_v keep_v close_o to_o he_o 3._o our_o grace_n shine_v more_o eminent_o as_o star_n in_o a_o frosty_a night_n shine_v clear_a and_o fish_n in_o the_o salt_a sea_n be_v sweet_a so_o we_o keep_v our_o savour_n the_o better_a for_o it_o and_o our_o grace_n be_v more_o enliven_v 4._o our_o conversation_n it_o suitable_a to_o god_n word_n may_v be_v a_o mean_n of_o their_o conversion_n among_o who_o we_o live_v obs_n 3._o to_o a_o godly_a soul_n to_o have_v its_o habitation_n among_o the_o wicked_a be_v a_o soul_n vex_v grief_n righteous_a lot_n be_v vex_v with_o the_o filthy_a conversation_n of_o the_o sodomite_n 2_o pet._n 2.7_o though_o god_n have_v dispose_v this_o in_o his_o providence_n yet_o it_o be_v a_o affliction_n and_o for_o the_o present_a grievous_a woe_n be_v i_o say_v david_n that_o i_o sojourn_v in_o mesech_n and_o that_o i_o dwell_v in_o the_o tent_n of_o kedar_n with_o a_o barbarous_a &_o profane_a people_n that_o be_v like_a to_o the_o posterity_n of_o mesech_n and_o kedar_n o_o what_o a_o burden_n it_o be_v to_o moses_n and_o to_o all_o true_a israelite_n to_o dwell_v among_o the_o egyptian_n how_o do_v the_o poor_a captive_a israelite_n weep_v when_o they_o be_v in_o caldea_n by_o the_o river_n of_o chebar_v and_o what_o a_o burden_n it_o be_v still_o for_o honest_a believe_a soul_n to_o dwell_v among_o a_o profane_a and_o wicked_a multitude_n where_o they_o can_v stir_v out_o of_o door_n or_o converse_v but_o with_o very_a few_o but_o that_o they_o shall_v hear_v god_n profane_v his_o name_n blaspheme_v his_o truth_n and_o scripture_n slight_v vilify_v deride_v and_o jest_v at_o his_o saint_n and_o faithful_a one_o either_o spiteful_o treat_v open_o persecute_v or_o at_o least_o close_o undermine_v to_o bring_v the_o rod_n of_o affliction_n upon_o they_o therefore_o among_o the_o true_o godly_a the_o society_n and_o cohabitation_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v most_o desirable_a but_o of_o the_o wicked_a most_o grievous_a and_o loathe_a obs_n 4._o god_n have_v the_o more_o special_a eye_n of_o care_n and_o providence_n over_o his_o people_n that_o have_v their_o habitation_n among_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a though_o they_o dwell_v where_o satan_n seat_n and_o throne_n be_v yet_o god_n hold_v they_o as_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n verse_n 1._o and_o he_o know_v their_o work_n of_o tribulation_n and_o where_o they_o dwell_v and_o therefore_o be_v present_a with_o suitable_a grace_n and_o strength_n from_o himself_o for_o their_o support_n and_o comfort_n thou_o remember_v we_o say_v david_n in_o our_o low_a estate_n where_o christ_n church_n have_v the_o great_a enemy_n god_n will_v show_v himself_o their_o great_a friend_n where_o his_o saint_n be_v most_o afflict_a and_o straighten_a there_o he_o will_v supply_v with_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o grace_n and_o enlargement_n in_o babylon_n of_o old_a among_o the_o inveterate_a enemy_n of_o god_n and_o his_o israel_n god_n send_v a_o ezekiel_n daniel_n ezra_n etc._n etc._n choice_a man_n and_o prophet_n of_o god_n for_o their_o comfort_n and_o consolation_n so_o we_o often_o see_v in_o the_o most_o barbarous_a and_o wicked_a place_n of_o the_o world_n that_o god_n send_v there_o the_o great_a sound_a and_o clear_a light_n to_o his_o servant_n that_o dwell_v among_o they_o ephesus_z smyrna_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n place_n of_o idolatry_n and_o cruelty_n and_o where_o satan_n seat_n be_v have_v their_o angel_n and_o martyr_n that_o shine_v in_o true_a faith_n and_o godliness_n the_o church_n of_o christ_n of_o late_a year_n have_v shine_v more_o eminent_a in_o faith_n and_o holiness_n in_o switzerland_n in_o saxony_n in_o savoy_n and_o the_o barbarous_a corner_n of_o the_o pyrenean_n mountain_n and_o alps_n than_o other_o place_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o in_o england_n and_o scotland_n under_o the_o antichristian_a and_o persecute_v bishop_n of_o late_a the_o saint_n then_o live_v under_o they_o do_v shine_v more_o eminent_a in_o their_o grace_n than_o now_o they_o do_v in_o this_o their_o day_n of_o prosperity_n and_o many_o than_o be_v more_o faithful_a martyr_n unto_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n then_o now_o they_o be_v for_o the_o more_o high_a satan_n and_o his_o instrument_n be_v against_o the_o saint_n god_n care_n over_o they_o be_v the_o more_o intense_a and_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o grace_n the_o more_o enlarge_v towards_o they_o obs_n 5._o that_o it_o be_v the_o saint_n great_a duty_n and_o their_o high_a glory_n to_o hold_v fast_o their_o faith_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o worst_a time_n and_o among_o the_o worst_a of_o people_n the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n be_v approve_v for_o hold_v fast_a christ_n name_n and_o faith_n among_o they_o in_o who_o satan_n do_v bear_v sway_n and_o in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o antipas_n be_v martyr_a and_o suffer_v death_n for_o the_o same_o profession_n it_o be_v a_o easy_a matter_n to_o carry_v a_o full_a sail_n of_o profession_n when_o the_o soft_a gale_n of_o prosperity_n blow_v neither_o be_v it_o any_o difficult_a matter_n for_o a_o hypocritical_a heart_n to_o seem_v godly_a with_o the_o godly_a to_o be_v sober_a with_o the_o sober_a or_o to_o be_v righteous_a among_o the_o righteous_a but_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n be_v then_o try_v when_o his_o habitation_n be_v among_o the_o ungodly_a that_o can_v keep_v himself_o sound_a among_o their_o corruption_n upright_a and_o perfect_a among_o the_o unrighteous_a and_o untainted_a with_o their_o folly_n and_o sweet_a as_o fish_n in_o the_o brackish_a ocean_n the_o three_o faithful_a child_n will_v not_o bow_v in_o babylon_n to_o nebuchadnezzar_n image_n though_o death_n itself_o attend_v they_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o thou_o shall_v have_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n many_o will_v follow_v christ_n in_o smile_a time_n or_o when_o the_o state_n do_v countenance_n christ_n and_o godliness_n this_o be_v to_o follow_v christ_n for_o the_o loaf_n sake_n but_o when_o christ_n be_v hurry_v to_o pilat_n hall_n of_o judgement_n his_o formal_a follower_n will_v forsake_v he_o yea_o peter_n himself_o may_v deny_v he_o weak_a christian_n may_v stumble_v and_o draw_v back_o when_o pillar_n of_o the_o church_n as_o peter_n fall_v so_o foul_o he_o be_v the_o only_o approve_a christian_a that_o will_v hold_v his_o profession_n fast_o before_o the_o face_n of_o nero_n and_o dioclesian_n as_o the_o virum_fw-la victoriae_fw-la which_o st._n austin_n mention_n and_o at_o the_o stake_n can_v free_o with_o stephen_n forgive_v his_o enemy_n and_o commend_v his_o spirit_n unto_o his_o god_n jo_n hus_n hierom_n of_o prague_n the_o poor_a waldenses_n and_o our_o late_a christian_n martyr_n as_o bradford_n philpot_n glover_n etc._n etc._n in_o our_o english_a marian_n day_n have_v with_o antipas_n for_o their_o constant_a witness_v unto_o the_o truth_n and_o faith_n of_o christ_n attain_v the_o everliving_a and_o honourable_a name_n of_o faithful_a martyr_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o most_o just_o in_o that_o they_o suffer_v in_o the_o worst_a of_o time_n when_o antipas_n be_v slay_v that_o be_v in_o a_o persecute_v bloody_a age_n when_o many_o godly_a person_n burn_v at_o the_o stake_n and_o among_o the_o worst_a sort_n of_o people_n the_o wicked_a antichristian_a tyrannise_a and_o bloody_a prelate_n for_o hold_v fast_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o faith_n in_o such_o ungodly_a time_n and_o among_o such_o a_o devilish_a crew_n among_o who_o satan_n have_v his_o throne_n sway_n and_o full_a dominion_n they_o just_o shall_v ever_o live_v in_o the_o memory_n and_o heart_n of_o all_o the_o faithful_a as_o reverend_a martyr_n unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n thus_o for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v a_o lot_n in_o sodom_n never_o touch_v with_o sodom_n wickedness_n to_o keep_v himself_o pure_a and_o sincere_a and_o undefiled_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o crooked_a generation_n to_o shine_v as_o a_o light_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o darkness_n this_o bring_v honour_n both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n obs_n 6._o the_o grace_n of_o well_o approve_a and_o faithful_a christian_n depart_v be_v to_o be_v set_v forth_o as_o pattern_n and_o example_n to_o the_o live_n both_o for_o encouragement_n and_o imitation_n antipas_n be_v here_o set_v as_o a_o example_n of_o
constancy_n and_o faithful_a martyrdom_n unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n it_o be_v great_a encouragement_n to_o the_o live_n to_o have_v the_o pattern_n of_o former_a worthy_a man_n before_o they_o it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v the_o read_n of_o achilles_n life_n in_o homer_n that_o make_v alexander_n ambitious_a to_o be_v his_o competitor_n in_o noble_a achievement_n again_o julius_n cesar_n take_v up_o alexander_n example_n endeavour_v to_o be_v sole_a lord_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n so_o also_o it_o be_v on_o a_o spiritual_a account_n abraham_n be_v call_v the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a for_o his_o approve_a faith_n in_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n and_o they_o be_v his_o child_n and_o the_o true_a seed_n of_o abraham_n that_o walk_v in_o the_o step_n of_o faithful_a abraham_n and_o so_o abraham_n abel_n enoch_n noah_n sarah_n moses_n etc._n etc._n be_v make_v everliving_a example_n of_o faith_n and_o godliness_n for_o imitation_n to_o all_o generation_n to_o come_v heb._n 11._o it_o much_o comfort_v we_o and_o bear_v up_o our_o spirit_n in_o suffering_n when_o we_o hear_v that_o christ_n our_o head_n and_o captain_n have_v perfect_v our_o salvation_n by_o suffering_n he_o have_v tread_v to_o we_o our_o first_o this_o thorny_a way_n let_v we_o not_o be_v ashamed_a to_o take_v up_o our_o cross_n and_o follow_v he_o whensoever_o he_o shall_v call_v we_o to_o it_o and_o so_o in_o all_o thing_n else_o in_o he_o that_o be_v imitable_a by_o we_o not_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n but_o as_o a_o holy_a person_n and_o head_n of_o his_o mystical_a body_n the_o church_n and_o so_o he_o present_v himself_o as_o a_o gracious_a example_n to_o his_o disciple_n jo._n 13.15_o for_o i_o have_v give_v you_o a_o example_n that_o you_o shall_v do_v as_o i_o have_v do_v to_o you_o as_o he_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o all_o the_o creature_n and_o the_o light_n itself_o and_o wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n so_o sure_o o_o all_o pattern_n and_o example_n his_o in_o the_o way_n of_o grace_n be_v most_o sound_a wise_a and_o perfect_a and_o bless_v be_v they_o they_o that_o follow_v their_o lord_n and_o master_n for_o he_o be_v the_o way_n and_o the_o life_n verse_n 14.15_o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o have_v thou_o also_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n i_o hate_v the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o laodicea_n only_o of_o the_o whole_a seven_o do_v pass_v the_o approbation_n of_o the_o spirit_n without_o any_o but_o prefix_v or_o annex_v to_o they_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v her_o commendable_a grace_n of_o constancy_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o worst_a of_o time_n and_o among_o the_o vile_a people_n even_o where_o the_o seat_n of_o satan_n be_v yet_o all_o in_o she_o be_v not_o well_o or_o sound_n for_o christ_n come_v on_o with_o a_o but_o against_o she_o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o etc._n etc._n whence_o by_o the_o way_n observe_v obs_n 1._o that_o many_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o person_n may_v suffer_v much_o for_o christ_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o christ_n yet_o not_o sound_a and_o right_o in_o all_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n doubtless_o the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n have_v and_o enjoy_v but_o sad_a and_o afflict_a day_n when_o antipas_n christ_n faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v for_o than_o she_o deny_v not_o the_o faith_n but_o hold_v her_o profession_n with_o much_o constancy_n the_o church_n at_o thyatira_n too_o be_v commend_v for_o her_o faith_n and_o her_o patience_n verse_n 19_o yet_o both_o these_o church_n notwithstanding_o their_o fair_a profession_n they_o have_v much_o rottenness_n and_o unsoundness_n in_o the_o root_n their_o doctrine_n be_v not_o straight_o that_o they_o have_v among_o they_o there_o be_v those_o in_o the_o one_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o niolaitan_n in_o the_o other_o the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabel_n and_o her_o wicked_a practice_n both_o most_o unsound_a both_o in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n yet_o both_o high_o suffer_v for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n we_o see_v that_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n among_o the_o gentile_n be_v sufficient_a to_o bring_v suffer_v on_o the_o disciple_n but_o suffer_v for_o that_o profession_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o sound_v in_o all_o thing_n some_o may_v prophesy_v in_o christ_n name_n and_o cast_v out_o devil_n in_o his_o name_n and_o suffer_v and_o give_v their_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v for_o his_o name_n and_o yet_o at_o the_o last_o day_n christ_n may_v tell_v they_o he_o know_v they_o not_o he_o that_o will_v attain_v a_o comfortable_a martyrdom_n for_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n let_v he_o first_o see_v that_o his_o end_n be_v right_a first_o that_o it_o be_v true_o and_o real_o for_o christ_n second_o that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n three_o that_o it_o tend_v whole_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o not_o at_o self_n this_o be_v the_o true_a suffering_n that_o will_v attain_v to_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n but_o to_o proceed_v christ_n have_v a_o charge_n against_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o it_o be_v because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n or_o a_o stone_n of_o offence_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n because_o thou_o have_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d thou_o have_v that_o be_v thou_o keep_v hold_v and_o intend_v to_o keep_v and_o hold_v thou_o have_v these_o balaamite_n not_o by_o accident_n or_o chance_n but_o by_o choice_n thou_o have_v they_o because_o thou_o delight_v in_o they_o and_o will_v have_v it_o so_o thy_o habendum_fw-la and_o tenendum_fw-la go_v together_o thou_o have_v they_o and_o will_v not_o part_v with_o they_o because_o thou_o love_v they_o therefore_o thy_o sin_n be_v the_o great_a herein_o and_o what_o have_v thou_o those_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n etc._n etc._n the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n be_v when_o he_o see_v that_o god_n have_v bless_v jacob_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o enchantment_n against_o israel_n he_o curse_o advise_v balack_n the_o prince_n of_o the_o midianite_n to_o make_v a_o great_a sacrifice_n to_o baal_n peor_n and_o to_o invite_v the_o israelite_n unto_o it_o now_o baal_n peor_n be_v the_o filthy_a lascivious_a idol_n priapus_n as_o godwin_n jewish_a antiquity_n testify_v who_o festival_n and_o sacrifice_n be_v celebrate_v by_o both_o sex_n in_o most_o shameless_a posture_n and_o manner_n and_o therefore_o hos_fw-la 9.10_o it_o be_v say_v they_o go_v to_o baal_n peor_n and_o discover_v themselves_o to_o their_o shame_n because_o it_o make_v they_o shameless_a and_o to_o discover_v their_o nakedness_n before_o that_o idol_n now_o the_o curse_a advice_n or_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n for_o a_o man_n doctrine_n be_v his_o advice_n or_o counsel_n consist_v of_o two_o part_n first_o to_o sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o participate_v at_o their_o curse_a altar_n in_o eat_v of_o their_o idolothite_n express_o against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o that_o of_o s._n paul_n 1_o cor._n 10.20_o 28_o act_v 15.29_o second_o in_o mix_v with_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n a_o notion_n utter_o forbid_v to_o the_o jewish_a nation_n not_o to_o meddle_v with_o in_o such_o a_o way_n so_o that_o though_o balaam_n can_v not_o curse_v israel_n according_a to_o balack_n desire_n be_v overmaster_v by_o god_n yet_o it_o seem_v his_o heart_n go_v still_o after_o the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n as_o 2_o pet._n 2.15_o testify_v that_o be_v his_o desire_n and_o heart_n be_v to_o take_v balack_n hire_n and_o reward_n to_o curse_n israel_n if_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o overmaster_v both_o his_o tongue_n and_o heart_n and_o instead_o of_o curse_v they_o he_o be_v enforce_v to_o bless_v they_o and_o see_v he_o can_v not_o pleasure_n balack_n according_a to_o his_o expectation_n and_o desire_n as_o a_o prophet_n in_o his_o malediction_n yet_o he_o be_v free_a as_o a_o private_a machavilian_n or_o a_o achitophel_n to_o counsel_n balack_n that_o the_o ready_a way_n to_o bring_v the_o people_n of_o israel_n at_o enmity_n with_o their_o god_n be_v to_o bring_v they_o to_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o so_o god_n that_o be_v their_o keeper_n and_o saviour_n against_o all_o enchantment_n and_o curse_n will_v
become_v their_o enemy_n and_o deliver_v they_o up_o either_o to_o balack_n or_o the_o moabite_n hand_n or_o smite_v they_o himself_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n and_o indeed_o balaam_n desire_n and_o doctrine_n take_v effect_v and_o be_v right_a unto_o its_o end_n and_z according_o they_o sin_v and_z according_o god_n be_v angry_a with_o they_o and_o smite_v of_o they_o with_o a_o plague_n twenty_o four_o thousand_o num_fw-la 25.9_o compare_v numb_a 31.16_o to_o cap._n 25.1_o 2_o etc._n etc._n now_o it_o seem_v the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n have_v such_o that_o hold_v such_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n such_o as_o pretend_v fair_a as_o balaam_n and_o carry_v it_o may_v be_v a_o high_a profession_n to_o christianity_n yet_o lay_v such_o a_o scandal_n or_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o church_n as_o balaam_n do_v to_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v they_o hold_v that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n to_o participate_v of_o the_o idolatrize_a sacrifice_n and_o heathenish_a festival_n of_o the_o panim_fw-la pergamite_n as_o there_o be_v of_o the_o same_o consort_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 10._o who_o will_v needs_o participate_v in_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o in_o the_o idol_n sacrifice_n which_o be_v the_o service_n of_o devil_n v._o 20_o so_o pleasant_a and_o sweet_a be_v the_o old_a heathenish_a idolatry_n to_o the_o new_a convert_v christian_n that_o they_o will_v needs_o keep_v their_o old_a jovial_a feast_n and_o sacrifice_n to_o jupiter_n bacchus_n venus_n adonis_n priapus_n etc._n etc._n together_o with_o the_o eucharistical_a feast_n of_o the_o supper_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o not_o only_o thus_o turn_v spiritual_a fornicator_n and_o adulterer_n but_o also_o commit_v corporal_a whoredom_n and_o fornication_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o those_o loose_a idol_n feast_n can_v be_v celebrate_v without_o it_o for_o the_o feast_n and_o sacrifice_n of_o priapus_n venus_n bacchus_n adonis_n etc._n etc._n the_o more_o shame_n and_o bestiality_n and_o lasciviousness_n be_v discover_v therein_o the_o more_o they_o think_v they_o please_v their_o god_n in_o their_o sacrifice_n and_o therefore_o doubtless_o it_o be_v in_o the_o excess_n as_o all_o historian_n that_o treat_v thereof_o do_v witness_n and_o this_o be_v clear_a from_o the_o next_o verse_n for_o it_o come_v in_o with_o a_o conjunction_n copulative_a even_o so_o have_v thou_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n a_o loose_a lascivious_a and_o idolize_v doctrine_n agree_v with_o that_o of_o balaam_n only_o differ_v in_o some_o mysterious_a notion_n be_v a_o branch_n of_o the_o high_a fly_v gnostic_n who_o have_v peculiar_a expression_n and_o un-intelligible_a notion_n proper_a to_o their_o sect_n i_o refer_v you_o to_o the_o precedent_n v._n 6._o concern_v the_o nicolaitan_n more_o at_o large_a this_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o stumble_a block_n the_o scandal_n and_o offence_n which_o some_o corrupt_a and_o unsound_a christian_n lay_v in_o the_o way_n of_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n this_o word_n stumble_v block_n be_v here_o take_v up_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n in_o lay_v stone_n block_n or_o snare_n in_o the_o way_n that_o make_v person_n fall_v or_o stumble_v thereat_o and_o this_o word_n be_v use_v in_o scripture_n sometime_o active_o sometime_o passive_o the_o pharise_n and_o scribe_n be_v offend_v and_o scandalize_v at_o the_o doctrine_n and_o miracle_n of_o christ_n mat._n 15.12_o here_o be_v a_o offence_n take_v but_o none_o give_v but_o a_o active_a scandal_n be_v when_o a_o real_a offence_n be_v give_v and_o a_o manifest_a stumbling-block_n be_v lay_v in_o the_o way_n as_o balack_n do_v to_o israel_n and_o when_o any_o open_a evil_n be_v commit_v either_o contrary_a to_o god_n law_n or_o when_o our_o liberty_n be_v use_v in_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o a_o unseasonable_a time_n to_o the_o offence_n of_o the_o weak_a whereby_o they_o be_v make_v the_o worse_a less_o godly_a and_o honest_a this_o also_o be_v a_o active_a scandal_n and_o a_o stumbling-block_n rom._n 14._o and_o to_o be_v avoid_v of_o all_o know_a christian_n the_o note_n that_o arise_v from_o this_o verse_n thus_o explain_v be_v obser_n 1_o that_o god_n have_v a_o controversy_n with_o all_o such_o church_n as_o hold_v and_o maintain_v pernicious_a unsound_a doctrine_n and_o wicked_a practice_n this_o be_v that_o god_n hate_v in_o the_o church_n and_o be_v so_o abominable_a to_o he_o that_o god_n have_v a_o charge_n against_o those_o back-slidden_a church_n for_o their_o erroneous_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n and_o threaten_v they_o that_o he_o will_v come_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n against_o they_o and_o will_v remove_v their_o candlestick_n from_o among_o they_o if_o they_o do_v not_o repent_v which_o in_o few-age_n after_o he_o exempt_v against_o they_o to_o the_o utmost_a it_o be_v not_o church_n privilege_n will_v exempt_v a_o people_n sin_v against_o god_n from_o his_o desolate_v judgement_n the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v god_n peculiar_a own_o people_n choose_v out_o among_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n to_o know_v his_o name_n the_o holy_a people_n isa_n 62.12_o dan._n 8.24_o a_o people_n near_o unto_o god_n and_o bless_v above_o all_o deut._n 7.6_o 14._o they_o be_v the_o people_n that_o have_v the_o holy_a land_n temple_n ordinance_n divine_a worship_n oracle_n of_o god_n the_o prophet_n his_o tabernacle_n and_o the_o most_o special_a presence_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o as_o dear_a unto_o he_o as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n zach._n 2.8_o yet_o when_o this_o people_n fall_v to_o wicked_a practice_n and_o rebel_v against_o god_n and_o cast_v off_o his_o yoke_n his_o wholesome_a law_n and_o doctrine_n none_o of_o their_o church-priviledge_n can_v secure_v or_o protect_v they_o from_o the_o desolation_n and_o judgement_n which_o come_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v to_o small_a purpose_n to_o say_v when_o we_o sin_n against_o god_n we_o have_v abraham_n to_o our_o father_n or_o cry_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v neither_o birth_n privilege_n nor_o church_n will_v secure_v we_o from_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n for_o the_o axe_n be_v lay_v unto_o the_o root_n and_o the_o people_n that_o bring_v not_o forth_o fruit_n worthy_a of_o repentance_n shall_v beâ—â—â—_n down_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n o_o then_o see_v god_n will_v not_o spare_v he_o own_o child_n if_o they_o sin_n and_o rebel_n against_o he_o and_o see_v that_o judgement_n must_v begin_v at_o the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o if_o it_o begin_v first_o at_o we_o what_o shall_v be_v the_o end_n of_o they_o that_o obey_v not_o the_o gospel_n of_o god_n and_o if_o the_o righteous_a scarce_o be_v save_v where_o shall_v the_o ungodly_a and_o sinner_n appear_v 1_o pet._n 4.17_o 18._o observe_v 2._o that_o erroneous_a and_o corrupt_a church_n and_o person_n be_v very_o obstinate_a and_o tenacious_a of_o their_o corrupt_a principle_n and_o practice_n the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v those_o that_o hold_v and_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n they_o do_v it_o not_o underhand_o &_o in_o secret_a but_o open_o and_o profess_o as_o the_o israelite_n do_v in_o the_o business_n of_o baal_n peor_n at_o the_o advice_n of_o balaam_n when_o they_o commit_v idolatry_n and_o whoredom_n with_o the_o daughter_n of_o moab_n they_o do_v it_o not_o in_o a_o corner_n but_o avowed_o profess_o and_o shameless_o as_o it_o be_v evident_a in_o num._n 25._o from_o v._o 1._o to_o 6._o and_o beholdone_v of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n come_v and_o bring_v unto_o his_o brethren_n a_o midianitish_a woman_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o moses_n &_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o all_o the_o congregation_n of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n who_o be_v weep_v before_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n when_o moses_n and_o the_o faithful_a among_o the_o israelite_n be_v mourning_n and_o weep_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o their_o brethren_n than_o some_o of_o they_o be_v so_o bold_a and_o impudent_a as_o to_o come_v before_o they_o even_o in_o their_o face_n with_o their_o sin_n in_o their_o hand_n not_o ashamed_a of_o they_o sober_a christian_n will_v think_v it_o strange_a that_o any_o profess_a church_n of_o christ_n or_o christian_n shall_v open_o and_o profess_o hold_v and_o maintain_v doctrine_n &_o practice_n as_o bad_a as_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o if_o not_o far_o worse_a and_o yet_o this_o carry_v as_o much_o truth_n with_o it_o as_o any_o historical_a relation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o that_o too_o maintain_v with_o as_o much_o pertinaciousness_n impudence_n strength_n of_o wit_n and_o policy_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o most_o virtuous_a or_o
gracious_a principle_n in_o the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n what_o a_o do_v tug_v and_o patch_v of_o counsel_n there_o be_v for_o the_o uphold_v of_o idolatry_n and_o image_n worship_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o many_o age_n all_o be_v anathematise_v by_o she_o that_o will_v not_o join_v in_o that_o false_a worship_n and_o it_o be_v to_o this_o day_n maintain_v by_o they_o in_o the_o face_n of_o the_o sun_n which_o be_v the_o great_a scandal_n and_o stumble_a block_n to_o the_o jew_n and_o turk_n to_o keep_v they_o off_o from_o the_o faith_n unto_o this_o day_n o_o most_o sad_a that_o profess_a christian_n shall_v be_v the_o great_a and_o most_o obstinate_a idolater_n among_o the_o nation_n round_o about_o they_o and_o this_o be_v not_o all_o they_o have_v their_o adultery_n too_o and_o fornication_n profess_o own_v avow_a and_o allow_v else_o what_o mean_v the_o public_a revenue_n that_o come_v into_o the_o pope_n coffer_n from_o the_o stew_n at_o rome_n and_o elsewhere_o under_o his_o jurisdiction_n which_o be_v authorize_v and_o erect_v by_o sixtus_n the_o four_o at_o rome_n and_o pope_n nicholas_n the_o first_o that_o prohibit_v the_o clergy_n marriage_n deprive_v a_o priest_n of_o his_o benefice_n at_o placentia_n for_o have_v a_o wife_n and_o child_n but_o the_o say_a priest_n afterward_o prove_v the_o say_a woman_n to_o be_v the_o wife_n of_o another_o man_n and_o only_o his_o concubine_n he_o be_v again_o restore_v o_o abominable_a and_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n honourable_a marriage_n forbid_v and_o adultery_n and_o fornication_n allow_v and_o countenance_v and_o this_o be_v not_o a_o private_a opinion_n or_o of_o some_o person_n in_o that_o harlot_n church_n but_o it_o exceed_v that_o of_o pergamus_n for_o they_o have_v but_o some_o among_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n but_o it_o be_v here_o more_o general_a &_o as_o catholic_a as_o their_o church_n be_v so_o catholic_a be_v those_o their_o error_n &_o wicked_a practice_n for_o as_o far_o as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n jurisdiction_n reach_v esso_fw-la far_o the_o worship_n of_o image_n her_o idolatry_n &_o adultery_n reach_v also_o but_o let_v we_o turn_v our_o eye_n from_o this_o great_a scarlet_a whore_n and_o look_v a_o little_a and_o reflect_v upon_o our_o own_o reform_a church_n at_o home_n and_o see_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n there_o maintain_v and_o uphold_v as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n among_o we_o it_o be_v no_o evil_a to_o inquire_v a_o enemy_n discover_v be_v half_o vanquish_v i_o hope_v we_o have_v but_o few_o of_o the_o late_a generation_n of_o baal_n priest_n leave_v among_o we_o of_o that_o prelatical_a party_n that_o endeavour_v with_o might_n and_o main_a to_o bring_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o of_o their_o abovesaid_a mother_n jezabel_n among_o we_o it_o be_v true_a they_o endeavour_v to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n in_o their_o travel_n towards_o their_o celestial_a canaan_n they_o entice_v and_o invite_v the_o faithful_a one_o of_o this_o nation_n to_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o baal_n peor_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n and_o many_o precious_a one_o do_v stumble_v and_o fall_v thereby_o but_o god_n give_v they_o a_o day_n of_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n for_o it_o now_o their_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n consist_v in_o their_o altar_n worship_n pompous_a gorgeous_a service_n cringe_n and_o congee_n at_o the_o cross_n musical_a church-service_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o be_v but_o part_n of_o the_o garment_n of_o the_o scarlet_a whore_n but_o also_o they_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o daughter_n of_o moab_n that_o be_v they_o mix_v interest_n and_o relation_n with_o antichristian_o and_o join_v counsel_n with_o jesuit_n etc._n etc._n and_o take_v up_o profess_o romish_a principle_n and_o practice_n as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o freewill_n liberty_n of_o play_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n and_o conformity_n to_o all_o outward_a ceremonial_a rite_n and_o service_n on_o purpose_n to_o ensnare_v the_o conscientious_a and_o godly_a and_o to_o make_v they_o fall_v and_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o all_o but_o like_o true_a balaamite_n they_o teach_v balack_n to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v they_o incite_v and_o stir_v up_o their_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a to_o do_v the_o very_a same_o and_o to_o enact_v heavy_a and_o penal_a law_n against_o all_o nonconformist_n to_o their_o form_n and_o false_a worship_n and_o receive_v from_o balack_n their_o foe_n the_o wage_n or_o hire_n of_o unrighteousness_n it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o life_n by_o the_o gospel_n that_o receive_v the_o wage_n of_o balaam_n as_o some_o fanatiques_n of_o these_o day_n will_v have_v it_o but_o very_o suitable_o it_o maybe_o apply_v to_o such_o prophet_n that_o will_v teach_v their_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a to_o set_v up_o and_o command_v a_o worship_n which_o have_v none_o of_o christ_n stamp_n upon_o it_o and_o to_o enforce_v it_o on_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o true_o godly_a on_o great_a penalty_n thereby_o to_o ensnare_v they_o and_o make_v they_o stumble_v if_o they_o may_v these_o be_v true_a balaamite_n indeed_o and_o for_o this_o their_o antichristian_a service_n they_o expect_v great_a revenue_n encouragement_n and_o honour_n as_o wage_n due_a unto_o they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n 2_o pet_n 2.15_o which_o balaam_n love_v there_o be_v another_o sort_n among_o we_o that_o hold_v profess_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o balaam_n that_o hold_v no_o difference_n betwoeen_v good_a and_o evil_n and_o that_o good_a and_o evil_n consist_v only_o in_o opinion_n not_o in_o reality_n and_o these_o be_v high_a fly_v antiscripturists_a and_o antinomestical_a atheist_n and_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o be_v converse_v with_o as_o christian_n but_o to_o be_v look_v on_o as_o alien_n and_o stranger_n to_o god_n his_o law_n and_o the_o commonweal_n of_o israel_n the_o lord_n open_v their_o eye_n to_o see_v their_o madness_n and_o folly_n if_o it_o be_v his_o bless_a will_n observe_v 2._o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o false_a can_v never_o stand_v together_o dagon_n and_o the_o ark_n can_v be_v competitor_n under_o one_o roof_n christ_n will_v not_o endure_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n idolatry_n and_o adultery_n to_o be_v practise_v in_o his_o church_n if_o his_o church_n will_v entertain_v such_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n he_o will_v hate_v they_o for_o it_o and_o he_o will_v no_o long_o be_v their_o teacher_n but_o will_v become_v their_o enemy_n and_o come_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n we_o can_v serve_v two_o master_n christ_n and_o mammon_n at_o once_o either_o we_o must_v love_v the_o one_o and_o hate_v the_o other_o for_o there_o be_v no_o fellowship_n between_o light_n and_o darkness_n the_o one_o always_o expel_v the_o other_o observe_v 3._o that_o false_a teacher_n as_o balaam_n may_v carry_v a_o high_a and_o fair_a hand_n of_o profession_n and_o yet_o still_a balaamite_n in_o their_o heart_n balaam_n be_v a_o prophet_n and_o prophesy_v very_o clear_o of_o christ_n numb_a 24._o and_o carry_v a_o very_a fair_a hand_n in_o profession_n as_o to_o desire_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o yet_o still_o love_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n so_o many_o false_a prophet_n of_o our_o day_n may_v profess_v fair_o and_o prophesy_v many_o excellent_a thing_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o yet_o still_a balaamite_n in_o their_o heart_n love_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n willing_o they_o will_v curse_v the_o godly_a &_o blast_v they_o it_o they_o can_v but_o god_n providential_o by_o his_o wisdom_n have_v overpowr_v they_o yet_o though_o they_o know_v that_o there_o be_v no_o enchantment_n against_o jacob_n nor_o divination_n against_o israel_n they_o will_v teach_v balack_n as_o sly_a machiavilian_o to_o lay_v snare_n to_o entrap_v the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n and_o make_v they_o fall_v advise_v as_o cunning_a politician_n their_o sovereign_a authority_n to_o enact_v strict_a law_n for_o conformity_n unto_o their_o false_a and_o wil-worship_n on_o purpose_n to_o make_v the_o conscientious_a godly_a to_o stumble_v against_o the_o just_a authority_n of_o the_o magistrate_n and_o so_o to_o sin_n and_o perish_v and_o hereby_o that_o honourable_a and_o just_a maintenance_n which_o gospel_n minister_n may_v right_o receive_v and_o demand_v of_o their_o flock_n be_v become_v unto_o such_o the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n the_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n carry_v a_o high_a hand_n of_o profession_n and_o who_o high_o than_o they_o who_o more_o costly_a in_o their_o service_n and_o worship_n who_o more_o desire_a the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a as_o
wheresoever_o idolatry_n be_v admit_v into_o a_o church_n looseness_n and_o lasciviousness_n present_o follow_v error_n be_v fruitful_a and_o one_o bring_v forth_o another_o assoon_o as_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n maintain_v the_o eat_n of_o thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n which_o be_v the_o service_n of_o devil_n present_o they_o join_v hand_n with_o the_o obscene_a sect_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n when_o the_o israelite_n join_v to_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o baal_n peor_n numb_a 25._o they_o become_v shameless_a and_o present_o fall_v on_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n in_o ezek._n 8.14_o we_o shall_v read_v that_o there_o be_v jewish_a woman_n weep_v for_o tammuz_o that_o be_v as_o some_o read_v it_o adonis_n or_o a_o idol_n or_o image_n of_o adonis_n who_o be_v a_o great_a lover_n of_o venus_n and_o slay_v by_o a_o boar_n in_o who_o memory_n there_o be_v celebrate_v yearly_a solemnity_n in_o which_o be_v the_o weep_n of_o woman_n or_o as_o junius_n have_v it_o it_o be_v osiris_n a_o idol_n of_o the_o egyptian_n and_o phoenician_n in_o who_o rite_n they_o forget_v all_o bound_n of_o modesty_n and_o discover_v their_o nakedness_n to_o the_o idol_n so_o corrupt_a be_v false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n that_o it_o and_o filthiness_n do_v usual_o walk_v hand_n in_o hand_n together_o in_o most_o partâ—_n 〈◊〉_d â—he_n jurisdiction_n of_o rome_n but_o especial_o italy_n and_o spain_n â—ein_o the_o great_a and_o most_o notorious_a idolatry_n be_v commit_v and_o countenance_v there_o be_v the_o great_a obscenity_n both_o in_o word_n and_o action_n yea_o and_o that_o common_o practise_v among_o they_o which_o be_v unnatural_a and_o sodomitish_a and_o not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o be_v name_v among_o christian_n so_o it_o be_v so_o here_o once_o within_o our_o memory_n with_o we_o as_o soon_o as_o we_o have_v taste_v the_o same_o grape_n of_o rome_n lust_n be_v soon_o promote_v both_o in_o court_n and_o country_n quest_n but_o if_o you_o here_o demand_v wherein_o lie_v the_o mischievousness_n and_o grievousness_n of_o this_o sin_n of_o idolatry_n i_o answer_v 1._o all_o idolater_n they_o forsake_v the_o true_a god_n 2._o they_o change_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o incorruptible_a god_n into_o the_o form_n of_o creep_a thing_n 3._o they_o thrust_v out_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n from_o their_o holy_a place_n and_o at_o last_o god_n himself_o 4._o they_o slight_a god_n and_o his_o help_n in_o extremity_n and_o call_v to_o their_o idol_n that_o see_v not_o hear_v not_o nor_o understand_v as_o the_o papist_n do_v to_o s._n anthony_n s._n francis_n etc._n etc._n 5._o they_o become_v prodigal_a towards_o their_o idol_n as_o the_o adulterer_n think_v nothing_o too_o much_o for_o his_o harlot_n so_o they_o nothing_o too_o much_o for_o their_o idolatrize_a worship_n witness_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n 6._o they_o become_v unclean_a and_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n god_n hate_v 7._o they_o become_v fool_n infatuate_v and_o deliver_v over_o to_o a_o reprobate_a sense_n whilst_o they_o disclaim_v the_o great_a infinite_a glorious_a holy_a and_o alwise_a god_n and_o in_o the_o room_n thereof_o adore_v batts_n ox_n mole_n owl_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o little_a piece_n of_o dead_a wood_n metal_n and_o the_o like_a carve_v and_o frame_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o workman_n and_o this_o be_v the_o just_a hand_n of_o god_n upon_o all_o idolater_n who_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o god_n give_v they_o over_o to_o strange_a delusion_n and_o believe_v a_o lie_n observe_v 7._o the_o last_o note_n from_o these_o word_n shall_v be_v that_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o difficult_a undertake_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o christ_n to_o take_v off_o or_o wean_v either_o new_a plant_v church_n or_o new_o reform_v one_o from_o their_o old_a false_a worship_n and_o practice_n some_o of_o the_o new_a plant_v church_n as_o of_o pergamus_n corinth_n and_o other_o of_o the_o gentile_n think_v that_o they_o may_v still_o participate_v of_o their_o former_a sacrifice_n of_o devil_n and_o their_o idolathite_n and_o of_o christ_n table_n also_o but_o the_o apostle_n paul_n be_v very_o bitter_a against_o such_o in_o 1_o cor._n 10.20_o 21._o and_o the_o spirit_n here_o also_o fall_v foul_a upon_o they_o and_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o the_o pergamitish_a church_n for_o entertainment_n of_o such_o doctrine_n what_o ado_n have_v paul_n also_o to_o take_v off_o the_o believe_a jew_n from_o their_o circumcision_n and_o moysaicall_a rite_n they_o will_v needs_o have_v the_o observation_n of_o all_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n and_o pedagogy_n of_o moses_n join_v to_o christ_n for_o justification_n and_o so_o make_v christ_n of_o none_o effect_v no_o less_o than_o a_o full_a council_n of_o apostle_n and_o elder_n be_v sufficient_a to_o remove_v this_o stumble_a block_n out_o of_o the_o way_n act_n 15._o and_o what_o a_o difficult_a business_n it_o be_v in_o the_o first_o reformation_n to_o reform_v up_o full_o all_o the_o world_n know_v what_o uproar_n commotion_n and_o civil_a war_n there_o be_v in_o k._n edward_n the_o sixth_n day_n when_o the_o mass-book_n be_v but_o turn_v into_o english_a as_o some_o of_o k._n edward_n counsellor_n advise_v our_o cornish_a rebel_n who_o be_v then_o in_o arm_n for_o their_o old_a mumpsimus_n and_o popish_a worship_n and_o sure_o luther_n nor_o zuinglius_fw-la nor_o calvin_n can_v go_v on_o with_o a_o thorough_a reformation_n in_o germany_n france_n or_o other_o place_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o unpreparedness_n and_o unsuitable_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o nation_n among_o who_o they_o begin_v the_o reformation_n be_v so_o long_a time_n settle_v and_o fix_v upon_o their_o old_a lees_n it_o be_v a_o very_a difficult_a work_n for_o they_o to_o go_v far_o through_o with_o it_o than_o be_v fit_a and_o competent_a for_o that_o generation_n who_o always_o reserve_v some_o relic_n remain_v and_o smack_v of_o popery_n though_o the_o main_a work_n be_v beat_v down_o and_o therefore_o some_o heady_a people_n of_o those_o time_n that_o will_v not_o condescend_v in_o any_o thing_n or_o have_v providential_a carriage_n towards_o the_o weak_a and_o dark_a sort_n of_o people_n will_v reform_v thing_n even_o to_o the_o height_n and_o full_a pitch_n of_o reformation_n according_a to_o the_o primitive_a pattern_n but_o the_o people_n of_o they_o age_n be_v not_o able_a to_o bear_v it_o it_o cause_v much_o trouble_n to_o the_o church_n and_o through_o intemperate_a zeal_n much_o hindrance_n and_o obstruction_n to_o the_o begin_v reformation_n and_o advantage_n to_o the_o enemy_n but_o since_o in_o many_o place_n and_o nation_n of_o the_o reform_a this_o reformation_n have_v make_v a_o further_a progress_n by_o some_o step_n yet_o still_o among_o most_o of_o the_o reform_a not_o only_o in_o this_o nation_n but_o elsewhere_o there_o be_v some_o remain_v of_o the_o old_a false_a worship_n and_o practice_n and_o a_o lust_a after_o they_o so_o strong_a a_o desire_n we_o have_v to_o the_o imitation_n of_o our_o predecessor_n practice_n be_v they_o never_o so_o corrupt_a yet_o bless_v be_v god_n for_o that_o reformation_n we_o enjoy_v and_o liberty_n to_o profess_v and_o practice_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o most_o undefiled_a and_o pure_a pattern_n that_o we_o judge_v agreeable_a to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n what_o shall_v we_o desire_v more_o on_o our_o own_o part_n or_o what_o great_a blessing_n can_v we_o expect_v from_o god_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n then_o to_o be_v protect_v secure_v and_o countenance_v in_o the_o way_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n according_a to_o a_o good_a conscience_n if_o the_o minister_n and_o church_n will_v not_o reform_v in_o such_o a_o day_n when_o public_a edict_n be_v go_v forth_o from_o cyrus_n to_o set_v israel_n free_a i_o wonder_v when_o they_o will_v fall_v upon_o it_o do_v they_o expect_v the_o magistrate_n to_o command_v and_o compel_v all_o unto_o the_o work_n alas_o this_o be_v not_o the_o generation_n that_o all_o will_v be_v fit_a for_o such_o a_o work_n in_o a_o whole_a nation_n or_o kingdom_n no_o never_o will_v there_o be_v such_o a_o golden_a age_n until_o christ_n himself_o shall_v come_v with_o the_o fan_n in_o his_o hand_n to_o purge_v his_o garner_n and_o take_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o himself_o be_v not_o the_o church_n a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n if_o the_o whole_a nation_n be_v the_o church_n where_o be_v the_o thorn_n be_v they_o the_o other_o neighbour_n nation_n about_o alas_o they_o be_v lily_n too_o church_n on_o that_o account_n as_o well_o as_o you_o be_v they_o the_o gentle_a nation_n as_o turk_n persian_n antichristian_o and_o popish_a nation_n as_o italian_n spanish_a french_a &_o c_o alas_o they_o be_v no_o thorn_n to_o you_o the_o reform_a nation_n be_v in_o equal_a balance_n
murder_n rather_o than_o cure_v and_o save_v alive_a object_n but_o you_o will_v object_v how_o be_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n vindicate_v if_o he_o smite_v both_o godly_a and_o ungodly_a together_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a among_o they_o i_o answer_v if_o the_o godly_a in_o a_o church_n do_v connive_v free_o tolerate_v or_o wink_v at_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a they_o be_v come_v partaker_n with_o they_o also_o therein_o so_o also_o just_o in_o their_o judgement_n and_o misery_n the_o church_n and_o faithful_a in_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n be_v just_o visit_v by_o god_n for_o suffer_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n nicolaitan_n and_o jezabel_n among_o they_o and_o righteous_o wrap_v up_o in_o one_o common_a calamity_n with_o the_o balaamite_n and_o nicolaitan_n but_o second_o if_o the_o faithful_a in_o a_o church_n do_v protest_v declare_v against_o and_o endeavour_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v and_o by_o all_o lawful_a mean_n for_o the_o purge_n out_o of_o the_o evil_a and_o erroneous_a person_n and_o doctrine_n among_o they_o they_o have_v do_v their_o duty_n towards_o god_n and_o deliver_v their_o soul_n from_o guilt_n though_o the_o common_a calamity_n and_o judgement_n of_o god_n on_o the_o wicked_a may_v reach_v these_o too_o without_o any_o derogation_n to_o divine_a justice_n for_o it_o touch_v not_o they_o as_o a_o judgement_n but_o as_o trial_n and_o for_o other_o good_a end_n of_o god_n jeremiah_n daniel_n ezekiel_n and_o other_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n suffer_v very_o much_o in_o the_o caldean_a captivity_n yet_o not_o as_o for_o their_o own_o sin_n but_o for_o other_o especial_a end_n of_o god_n but_o very_o often_o god_n do_v and_o will_v save_v his_o faithful_a one_o as_o wheat_n among_o the_o chaff_n by_o a_o temporal_a salvation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o judgement_n and_o destruction_n of_o wicked_a one_o round_o about_o god_n will_v call_v out_o righteous_a lot_n from_o sodom_n and_o will_v provide_v noah_n a_o ark_n when_o he_o come_v with_o flame_n of_o fire_n or_o flood_n of_o desolate_v water_n on_o the_o wicked_a world_n do_v not_o god_n persevere_v providence_n and_o special_a mark_n of_o grace_n appear_v in_o this_o nation_n in_o preserve_v and_o keep_v many_o precious_a grain_n of_o wheat_n among_o all_o our_o chaff_n in_o this_o late_a day_n of_o our_o winow_v and_o tribulation_n and_o many_o whereof_o as_o it_o be_v be_v take_v by_o the_o hand_n by_o god_n as_o righteous_a lot_n and_o noah_n and_o ark_v provide_v for_o they_o by_o god_n to_o pass_v from_o sodom_n and_o the_o wicked_a world_n over_o the_o flood_n into_o a_o land_n of_o rest_n the_o mountain_n of_o ararat_n i_o mean_v the_o wilderness_n of_o america_n and_o so_o indeed_o the_o faithful_a witness_n of_o christ_n by_o the_o dragon_n be_v pour_v out_o of_o flood_n of_o persecution_n after_o they_o flee_v into_o the_o wilderness_n and_o be_v there_o preserve_v for_o some_o time_n until_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n be_v over_o therefore_o when_o you_o see_v your_o faithful_a lot_n noah_n &c._n &c._n fly_v from_o you_o or_o call_v by_o god_n to_o place_n of_o security_n look_v then_o for_o desolate_v time_n isa_n 26.20_o 21._o when_o our_o halcyon_n bird_n as_o swallow_n etc._n etc._n fly_v from_o we_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o approach_a winter_n so_o when_o good_a and_o godly_a man_n be_v remove_v out_o of_o their_o place_n or_o drive_v into_o corner_n then_o observe_v it_o as_o a_o true_a prognostic_n judgement_n and_o indignation_n be_v nigh_o at_o hand_n observe_v 5._o when_o god_n be_v wrath_n with_o a_o people_n he_o turn_v his_o sweet_a mercy_n into_o the_o most_o terrible_a judgement_n the_o word_n of_o god_n mouth_n which_o be_v the_o staff_n and_o comfort_n of_o his_o people_n he_o can_v turn_v unto_o the_o voice_n of_o trumpet_n and_o as_o the_o roar_n of_o many_o water_n for_o terribleness_n when_o we_o keep_v close_o unto_o christ_n than_o all_o thing_n be_v we_o friend_n servants_z riches_n child_n and_o our_o table_n be_v mercy_n to_o we_o but_o when_o we_o be_v become_v enemy_n to_o christ_n by_o evil_a work_n than_o friend_n servants_z riches_n child_n our_o table_n and_o all_o be_v become_v snare_n unto_o we_o when_o the_o king_n frown_v on_o we_o all_o his_o courtier_n and_o noble_n will_v do_v it_o also_o whilst_o god_n be_v our_o friend_n all_o the_o whole_a creation_n will_v serve_v we_o free_o but_o if_o he_o frown_v all_o will_v conspire_v and_o rebel_v against_o we_o his_o angel_n who_o he_o former_o command_v for_o our_o safety_n to_o pitch_v their_o tent_n about_o we_o will_v then_o be_v command_v to_o come_v with_o slaughter_n weapon_n against_o we_o when_o a_o man_n way_n please_v the_o lord_n he_o make_v his_o enemy_n to_o be_v at_o peace_n with_o he_o prov._n 16.7_o babylon_n can_v never_o have_v hurt_v zion_n till_o zion_n have_v offend_v when_o pergamus_n thyatira_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o offend_a asian_a church_n forsaked_a god_n instead_o of_o the_o powerful_a sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n or_o word_n of_o grace_n in_o convince_a they_o of_o sin_n and_o mortify_v their_o corruption_n or_o speak_v comfortable_o to_o they_o he_o send_v forth_o another_o word_n a_o word_n of_o judgement_n and_o indignation_n command_v their_o adversary_n to_o go_v forth_o with_o their_o destroy_a weapon_n either_o of_o war_n pestilence_n or_o famine_n to_o sweep_v they_o off_o from_o the_o land_n of_o the_o live_n that_o their_o place_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o find_v o_o therefore_o let_v we_o be_v sure_a to_o keep_v god_n our_o friend_n verse_n 17._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n and_o will_v give_v he_o a_o white_a stone_n and_o in_o the_o stone_n a_o new_a name_n write_v which_o no_o man_n know_v save_v he_o that_o receive_v it_o he_o that_o be_v wise_a and_o have_v a_o understand_a heart_n among_o you_o let_v he_o consider_v those_o premonition_n which_o i_o have_v so_o often_o inculcate_v lest_o the_o judgement_n threaten_v for_o your_o sin_n overtake_v you_o and_o therefore_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v although_o i_o will_v come_v against_o the_o wicked_a one_o in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o fight_n against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n yet_o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v that_o oppose_v and_o escape_v the_o temptation_n of_o those_o pernicious_a doctrine_n among_o they_o and_o keep_v themselves_o undefiled_a therein_o to_o they_o will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n here_o some_o difficulty_n or_o interpretation_n offer_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o hide_a manna_n many_o assert_v it_o to_o be_v christ_n which_o be_v that_o invisible_a food_n receive_v by_o faith_n according_a to_o john_n 6.32_o 33_o 34._o which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o there_o typify_v forth_o by_o manna_n but_o save_v due_a reverence_n to_o the_o learned_a that_o go_v that_o way_n i_o can_v join_v with_o they_o single_o in_o that_o interpretation_n for_o first_o it_o be_v here_o call_v hide_a manna_n or_o strange_a manna_n not_o as_o yet_o undiscovered_a now_o christ_n be_v the_o know_v and_o manifest_a spiritual_a food_n and_o manna_n unto_o all_o believer_n and_o so_o that_o of_o john_n 6.3_o be_v bring_v thereby_o to_o verify_v it_o and_o allude_v thereunto_o second_o every_o believer_n have_v christ_n already_o as_o his_o spiritual_a food_n and_o manna_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v but_o a_o surplusage_n and_o tautology_n to_o promise_v that_o as_o a_o crown_n and_o reward_n to_o the_o conquer_a faithful_a one_o which_o they_o enjoy_v already_o even_o from_o their_o first_o day_n or_o in_o their_o low_a state_n of_o faith_n therefore_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v somewhat_o more_o than_o christ_n spiritual_o eat_v by_o faith_n manna_n be_v the_o food_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n that_o god_n give_v to_o his_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o wilderness_n exod._n 16.14_o 15._o etc._n etc._n and_o as_o antiquity_n and_o jewish_a rabbi_n testify_v in_o the_o eat_n thereof_o be_v represent_v all_o sort_n of_o meat_n to_o the_o taste_n that_o the_o appetite_n or_o curiosity_n can_v wish_v for_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o fit_a type_n for_o to_o represent_v christ_n by_o who_o be_v the_o true_a bread_n of_o life_n that_o can_v fill_v and_o answer_v all_o our_o necessity_n and_o that_o he_o that_o shall_v eat_v thereof_o shall_v never_o hunger_n more_o but_o this_o be_v a_o hide_a manna_n a_o strange_a secret_a bread_n of_o life_n not_o yet_o
mountain_n to_o fall_v upon_o they_o and_o hide_v they_o from_o the_o face_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o throne_n and_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o the_o lamb._n this_o be_v the_o terrible_a and_o unknown_a name_n of_o christ_n which_o no_o man_n know_v but_o christ_n himself_o which_o one_o day_n he_o will_v manifest_v when_o all_o his_o enemy_n be_v make_v his_o footstool_n and_o take_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o himself_o o_o let_v this_o thy_o kingdom_n come_v and_o bless_a be_v he_o that_o shall_v sit_v down_o with_o christ_n in_o his_o kingdom_n observe_v 2._o christ_n be_v very_o zealous_a and_o intense_a on_o the_o punishment_n of_o delinquent_a church_n christ_n come_v all_o in_o a_o fiery_a posture_n against_o thyatira_n and_o withal_o tell_v she_o ver_fw-la 22_o 23._o that_o for_o suffer_v jezabel_n within_o she_o behold_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n and_o i_o will_v kill_v her_o child_n with_o death_n etc._n etc._n christ_n when_o he_o whip_v out_o of_o the_o temple_n the_o buyer_n and_o seller_n jo_n 2._o do_v it_o so_o zealous_o that_o for_o that_o very_a act_n it_o be_v former_o prophesy_v of_o he_o the_o zeal_n of_o thy_o house_n have_v eat_v i_o up_o how_o zealous_a be_v christ_n in_o his_o carriage_n and_o ready_a to_o punish_v all_o those_o delinquent_a asian_a church_n he_o tell_v ephesus_n in_o the_o first_o place_n except_o she_o repent_v and_o recover_v she_o first_o love_n and_o do_v she_o first_o work_n he_o will_v come_v quick_o and_o remove_v her_o candlestick_n out_o of_o its_o place_n to_o pergamus_n he_o say_v repent_v or_o i_o come_v quick_o against_o thou_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n how_o zealous_a be_v christ_n against_o the_o zeal-fallen_a church_n of_o laodicea_n cap._n 3._o 15_o 16._o i_o know_v thou_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a so_o then_o because_o thou_o be_v lukewarm_a i_o will_v spew_v thou_o out_o of_o my_o mouth_n you_o see_v christ_n will_v not_o spare_v his_o delinquent_a church_n but_o come_v quick_o against_o they_o except_o they_o repent_v and_o this_o proceed_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o church_n answer_n to_o this_o apparition_n of_o he_o to_o john_n who_o have_v his_o eye_n like_v unto_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o foot_n like_o burn_a brass_n cap._n 1._o 14_o 15._o verse_n 19_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o charity_n and_o service_n and_o faith_n and_o thy_o patience_n and_o thy_o work_n and_o the_o last_o to_o be_v more_o than_o the_o first_o all_o those_o grace_n here_o mention_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o find_v in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o true_a â—eal_a grace_n not_o only_o so_o in_o appearance_n and_o opinion_n but_o in_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n and_o therefore_o christ_n before_o he_o fall_v on_o the_o charge_n against_o she_o first_o he_o give_v a_o approbation_n and_o a_o encouragement_n to_o her_o grace_n and_o in_o effect_n tell_v she_o it_o be_v true_a o_o church_n of_o thyatira_n i_o must_v acknowledge_v thy_o work_n of_o grace_n as_o thy_o true_a love_n towards_o i_o which_o have_v produce_v and_o bring_v forth_o in_o thou_o the_o happy_a fruit_n of_o thy_o zealous_a service_n and_o thy_o faith_n enliven_v by_o love_n together_o with_o thy_o constant_a patience_n under_o suffering_n for_o my_o name_n sake_n and_o by_o this_o it_o appear_v that_o thou_o have_v receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n thereof_o and_o withal_o i_o must_v add_v unto_o thy_o praise_n that_o there_o be_v a_o growth_n and_o improvement_n in_o those_o gracious_a work_n and_o the_o last_o to_o be_v more_o than_o the_o first_o that_o be_v though_o thy_o first_o work_n be_v do_v out_o of_o much_o zeal_n yet_o the_o latter_a be_v do_v on_o more_o certain_a and_o sober_a ground_n of_o knowledge_n and_o sincerer_n end_v then_o the_o first_o and_o therefore_o as_o thou_o have_v make_v a_o improvement_n of_o thy_o grace_n so_o thou_o be_v more_o in_o esteem_n and_o thy_o work_n also_o then_o at_o the_o first_o by_o the_o way_n here_o observe_v we_o may_v observe_v though_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v never_o so_o blame-worthy_a yet_o christ_n will_v give_v she_o her_o due_a and_o set_v too_o his_o seal_n of_o approbation_n to_o all_o that_o be_v sound_a and_o righteous_a in_o she_o it_o seem_v there_o be_v grace_n sufficient_a in_o thyatira_n to_o denominate_v she_o a_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n notwithstanding_o christ_n have_v a_o few_o thing_n to_o say_v against_o she_o it_o savour_v not_o of_o the_o dovelike_a spirit_n of_o christ_n and_o love_n when_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o rigid_a as_o will_v not_o acknowledge_v such_o society_n to_o be_v church_n of_o christ_n because_o some_o imperfection_n in_o they_o either_o in_o doctrine_n or_o manner_n though_o otherwise_o abound_v in_o work_n of_o holiness_n as_o love_v to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n and_o faith_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n zeal_n towards_o god_n worship_n and_o service_n and_o in_o suffer_v for_o christ_n sake_n doubtless_o with_o some_o rigid_a person_n in_o these_o day_n the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n will_v be_v unchurch_v and_o anathematise_v by_o they_o have_v they_o but_o authority_n over_o they_o though_o christ_n have_v set_v his_o seal_n upon_o they_o and_o mark_v they_o as_o golden_a candlestick_n as_o in_o a_o natural_a body_n some_o member_n may_v be_v rot_v and_o dead_a and_o yet_o a_o lively_a body_n so_o in_o those_o spiritual_a body_n politics_n there_o may_v be_v some_o member_n rot_v and_o dead_a at_o the_o root_n yet_o the_o body_n still_o a_o organical_a body_n and_o no_o great_a hindrance_n to_o the_o whole_a and_o again_o in_o a_o natural_a body_n there_o may_v be_v a_o catholic_a disease_n seize_v upon_o every_o part_n and_o member_n of_o the_o body_n which_o may_v render_v it_o very_o uncapable_a for_o its_o service_n and_o yet_o still_o a_o lively_a body_n so_o it_o may_v be_v in_o a_o church_n a_o body_n politic_a it_o may_v be_v catholique_o sick_a and_o infect_v with_o some_o venomous_a disease_n some_o pestifferous_a doctrine_n or_o other_o and_o yet_o a_o church_n still_o though_o a_o decrepit_a infirm_a and_o lame_a one_o but_o when_o the_o disease_n come_v to_o be_v mortal_a leprous_a or_o incurable_a it_o be_v time_n then_o to_o cry_v out_o sum_n impurus_fw-la sum_fw-la impurus_fw-la procul_fw-la hinc_fw-la procul_fw-la ite_z for_o the_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o thy_o love_n etc._n etc._n here_o we_o see_v the_o good_a work_n that_o god_n do_v approve_v of_o in_o his_o people_n and_o do_v also_o render_v they_o as_o approve_v saint_n both_o unto_o themselves_o and_o the_o whole_a world_n christ_n alone_o be_v the_o public_a approve_a person_n in_o the_o room_n of_o all_o his_o member_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n as_o unto_o justification_n and_o perfect_a righteousness_n yet_o before_o these_o grace_n do_v appear_v in_o the_o saint_n to_o evidence_n their_o calling_n they_o be_v but_o the_o child_n of_o wrath_n as_o well_o as_o other_o election_n do_v secure_v our_o eternal_a estate_n but_o before_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n come_v to_o evidence_n it_o by_o faith_n that_o work_v by_o love_n sin_n and_o death_n have_v dominion_n over_o we_o and_o though_o we_o be_v heir_n of_o all_o in_o god_n predetermination_n yet_o differ_v we_o not_o at_o all_o from_o servant_n in_o the_o state_n of_o unregeneracy_n yea_o therein_o we_o be_v slave_n and_o captive_n to_o sin_n and_o satan_n these_o gracious_a work_n be_v call_v thy_o work_n though_o they_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o wrought_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o yet_o god_n goodness_n do_v call_v they_o we_o because_o they_o be_v act_v by_o the_o instrumentality_n of_o our_o soul_n as_o pass_v through_o our_o will_n affection_n and_o understanding_n and_o here_o love_n or_o charity_n be_v put_v in_o the_o first_o place_n among_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n whether_o love_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n be_v before_o faith_n i_o shall_v not_o here_o dispute_v only_o thus_o much_o i_o say_v that_o all_o general_o grant_v that_o faith_n first_o act_n be_v a_o assent_n to_o the_o truth_n as_o unto_o a_o proposition_n now_o unless_o love_v come_v in_o to_o ingrediate_v the_o affection_n unto_o the_o truth_n propose_v it_o will_v only_o be_v but_o a_o bare_a opinion_n and_o never_o come_v to_o a_o lively_a faith_n second_o i_o say_v love_n be_v here_o propose_v as_o first_o in_o order_n as_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a gospel_n grace_n 1_o cor._n 13._o throughout_o now_o abide_v faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n but_o the_o great_a of_o
than_o the_o approve_a presbyter_n of_o a_o church_n but_o the_o latter_a zeal_n be_v better_a â—egulated_v and_o more_o sober_a than_o the_o former_a when_o i_o be_v a_o child_n say_v paul_n i_o speak_v as_o a_o child_n i_o do_v as_o a_o child_n i_o understand_v as_o a_o child_n but_o when_o i_o become_v a_o man_n i_o put_v away_o childish_a thing_n so_o it_o be_v in_o our_o spiritual_a growth_n in_o our_o first_o birth_n we_o be_v very_o childish_a and_o zealous_a of_o small_a thing_n external_a circumstance_n in_o worship_n we_o then_o look_v upon_o as_o great_a thing_n and_o if_o a_o paint_a window_n a_o cross_n a_o suâ—pless_a a_o cope_n etc._n etc._n stand_v in_o our_o way_n we_o present_o stumble_v at_o they_o and_o think_v it_o the_o most_o acceptable_a service_n we_o can_v perform_v to_o god_n either_o to_o burn_v they_o or_o break_v they_o to_o piece_n as_o antichristian_a trumpery_n again_o if_o we_o come_v a_o little_a high_o than_o we_o spend_v most_o or_o all_o our_o strength_n about_o the_o defence_n of_o external_a form_n of_o worship_n as_o whether_o presbytery_n independency_n or_o the_o way_n of_o the_o anabaptist_n so_o call_v be_v the_o right_a way_n this_o humour_n too_o be_v most_o prevalent_a in_o the_o neophites_n but_o the_o weighty_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o his_o law_n be_v for_o the_o elder_n and_o strong_a sort_n the_o one_o think_v to_o catch_v heaven_n by_o tything_n mint_n and_o anniss_n by_o be_v very_o intense_a about_o the_o small_a thing_n of_o the_o law_n but_o the_o other_o â—ot_n leave_v the_o first_o undo_v fall_v upon_o the_o kernel_n and_o substance_n of_o religion_n which_o be_v fit_a meat_n for_o strong_a man_n the_o grow_a christian_n grace_n excel_v the_o young_a as_o his_o love_n be_v more_o sound_n he_o love_v not_o for_o interest_n or_o opinion_n sake_n as_o many_o young_a one_o do_v but_o he_o love_v the_o brethren_n on_o this_o ground_n as_o be_v member_n of_o one_o body_n be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o same_o divine_a truth_n with_o himself_o second_o his_o service_n be_v more_o cordial_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o large_a experience_n of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n to_o his_o soul_n he_o have_v often_o meet_v god_n presence_n in_o his_o ordinance_n than_o the_o young_a christian_n have_v and_o therefore_o needs_o must_v his_o desire_n and_o affection_n excel_v unto_o god_n ordinance_n and_o worship_n see_v he_o have_v ofâ—ner_o meet_v god_n therein_o as_o in_o a_o special_a habitation_n of_o his_o glory_n three_o a_o old_a christian_n faith_n be_v sound_a than_o the_o young_a he_o believe_v not_o because_o he_o have_v hear_v only_o with_o the_o ear_n but_o he_o believe_v because_o he_o have_v see_v taste_v and_o experience_v the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n and_o his_o promise_n to_o his_o soul_n which_o the_o other_o it_o may_v be_v as_o yet_o have_v not_o attain_v too_o four_o his_o patience_n be_v more_o try_v more_o refine_v than_o the_o young_a five_o and_o last_o in_o effect_n all_o his_o grace_n be_v sound_a and_o better_o circumstantiate_v then_o those_o of_o the_o young_a christian_n for_o end_n for_o ground_n for_o manner_n for_o time_n and_o in_o all_o other_o circumstance_n whatsoever_o therefore_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o strive_v that_o our_o last_o work_n may_v be_v more_o than_o our_o first_o otherwise_o shame_n unto_o we_o as_o unprofitable_a servant_n verse_n 20._o notwithstanding_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jezabel_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o seduce_v my_o servant_n to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n yet_o nevertheless_o o_o thou_o church_n of_o thyatira_n though_o i_o do_v approve_v and_o encourage_v thy_o gracious_a work_n of_o love_n faith_n service_n and_o patience_n and_o commend_v thou_o for_o thy_o proficiency_n in_o they_o yet_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n certain_a offence_n to_o lay_v in_o charge_n against_o thou_o hence_o note_v observe_v if_o our_o sin_n be_v few_o and_o great_a though_o our_o grace_n be_v many_o and_o eminent_a yet_o god_n will_v come_v against_o we_o for_o they_o few_o great_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n be_v as_o dead_a fly_n in_o precious_a ointment_n it_o will_v defile_v the_o whole_a box_n of_o spiritual_a grace_n god_n will_v not_o inhabit_v quiet_o and_o at_o peace_n in_o one_o mansion_n with_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n if_o ephraim_n will_v have_v idol_n god_n will_v let_v he_o alone_o and_o if_o israel_n will_v uphold_v wickedness_n though_o his_o own_o peculiar_a people_n who_o be_v abound_v in_o sacrifice_n and_o holy_a service_n yet_o that_o shall_v not_o privilege_v they_o from_o a_o babylonish_n captivity_n if_o his_o own_o select_a people_n will_v turn_v wild_a olive_n and_o cruciâ—â—e_v the_o lord_n prophet_n and_o his_o christ_n he_o can_v cut_v they_o off_o and_o make_v they_o a_o desolate_a and_o disperse_a people_n upon_o the_o face_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n thyatira_n have_v many_o excellent_a grace_n and_o so_o have_v ephesus_n smyrna_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n yet_o for_o their_o sin_n and_o especial_o those_o of_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n the_o corrupt_a doctrine_n of_o balaam_n jezabel_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n god_n come_v against_o they_o in_o judgement_n and_o fiery_a indignation_n and_o remove_v his_o candlestick_n from_o among_o they_o and_o leave_v they_o desolate_a if_o we_o conceive_v our_o grace_n of_o faith_n love_n service_n etc._n etc._n will_v secure_v we_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n though_o we_o admit_v antichristian_a doctrine_n of_o idolatry_n false_a and_o evil_a worship_n among_o we_o we_o shall_v be_v much_o deceive_v doubtless_o many_o of_o our_o former_a bishop_n be_v very_o godly_a man_n as_o jewel_n downham_n Ê‹sher_n hall_n davenant_n etc._n etc._n yet_o their_o real_a grace_n and_o holiness_n can_v not_o stop_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n in_o go_v forth_o in_o wrath_n against_o the_o antichristian_a practice_n and_o false_a worship_n tolerate_v and_o allow_v in_o the_o church_n of_o engâ—_n 〈…〉_o only_o can_v deliver_v their_o own_o soul_n but_o they_o themselves_o 〈◊〉_d main_a and_o the_o whole_a function_n shall_v smart_v for_o it_o in_o the_o day_n of_o 〈◊〉_d lord_n indignation_n and_o though_o some_o of_o they_o be_v godly_a and_o pious_a man_n yet_o for_o their_o tolerate_n and_o connive_v at_o false_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n they_o themselves_o shall_v suffer_v in_o the_o common_a judgement_n but_o their_o pious_a and_o gracious_a soul_n shall_v be_v save_v so_o as_o by_o fire_n not_o that_o of_o purgatory_n first_o kindle_v in_o the_o pope_n kitchen_n but_o by_o the_o fire_n of_o affliction_n sanctify_v unto_o they_o by_o that_o fire_n of_o purge_v and_o cleanse_v away_o our_o dross_n to_o wit_n god_n spirit_n and_o word_n we_o be_v therefore_o to_o look_v to_o it_o how_o we_o admit_v offence_n among_o we_o though_o they_o be_v but_o few_o they_o may_v draw_v god_n into_o judgement_n against_o we_o and_o though_o they_o may_v not_o at_o present_a unchurch_n we_o yet_o if_o hold_v unrepented_a of_o they_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o come_v against_o we_o quick_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n o_o let_v no_o man_n plead_v for_o toleration_n of_o sin_n false_a doctrine_n or_o worship_n from_o the_o primitive_a practice_n or_o precedent_n of_o the_o first_o church_n so_o as_o they_o sin_v first_o in_o these_o particular_n so_o they_o be_v make_v the_o first_o example_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o justice_n it_o be_v but_o a_o sad_a say_n of_o some_o that_o their_o present_a church_n be_v as_o sound_v straight_o and_o holy_a as_o the_o primitive_a one_o they_o have_v their_o drunkard_n incestuous_a follower_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n the_o nicolaitan_n and_o jezabel_n and_o we_o say_v they_o in_o our_o parochial_a church_n have_v not_o worse_o alas_o they_o be_v now_o make_v unto_o we_o example_n of_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n for_o those_o and_o the_o rest_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o their_o very_a habitation_n give_v unto_o the_o curse_a mahometan_n and_o their_o off_o spring_n turn_v barbarian_n and_o heathen_n and_o if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o sin_n and_o transgression_n with_o they_o o_o may_v we_o not_o fear_v the_o same_o desolate_v judgement_n let_v we_o not_o contemn_v the_o long-suffering_a of_o god_n but_o speedy_o repent_v and_o do_v our_o first_o work_n so_o far_o shall_v we_o be_v from_o boast_v on_o that_o account_n that_o it_o shall_v rather_o be_v unto_o we_o just_a matter_n of_o grief_n and_o sorrow_n but_o to_o proceed_v the_o charge_n against_o thyatira_n be_v that_o thou_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezabel_n who_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o deceive_v my_o servant_n etc._n etc._n this_o woman_n jezebel_n here_o mention_v doubtless_o
be_v a_o she_o prophetess_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n and_o that_o she_o be_v one_o of_o that_o sect_n be_v evident_a from_o this_o that_o she_o come_v with_o the_o same_o curse_a nicolaitish_a doctrine_n in_o the_o 14_o and_o 15._o verse_n mention_v teach_v and_o draw_v god_n people_n to_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n first_o herein_o appear_v her_o impudence_n who_o contrary_a to_o the_o modesty_n of_o her_o sex_n and_o apostolical_a prohibition_n yet_o she_o take_v the_o name_n of_o a_o prophetess_n upon_o herself_o and_o to_o teach_v public_o contrary_a to_o the_o apostle_n 1._o cor._n 14_o 34._o next_o observe_v her_o falsity_n and_o deceit_n she_o be_v a_o prophetess_n and_o why_o it_o be_v only_o to_o deceive_v and_o seduce_v christ_n servant_n three_o observe_v the_o way_n and_o mean_n of_o her_o seduction_n it_o be_v by_o false_a doctrine_n by_o teach_v idolatry_n and_o communicate_v in_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o idol_n and_o fornication_n to_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a for_o i_o always_o take_v these_o to_o be_v two_o great_a distinct_a sin_n and_o error_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n idolatry_n and_o fornication_n and_o not_o only_a idolatry_n which_o be_v a_o spiritual_a fornication_n or_o adultery_n for_o balaam_n advice_n be_v not_o only_o that_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o business_n of_o baal_n peor_n mumb._n 25.1_o 2._o shall_v fall_v to_o idolatry_n but_o to_o fornication_n also_o with_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n so_o also_o jezabel_n ahab_n wife_n who_o provoke_v he_o to_o set_v up_o idolatry_n unto_o baal_n in_o israel_n 1_o king_n 16.31_o 32._o compare_v to_o 1_o king_n 21.25_o be_v also_o a_o notable_a adultress_n as_o by_o that_o of_o 2_o king_n 9.22_o what_o peace_n whilst_o the_o woredom_n of_o thy_o mother_n jezabel_n and_o her_o witchcraft_n be_v yet_o in_o great_a number_n and_o her_o carriage_n be_v according_o impudent_a for_o 30._o do_v convince_v her_o whoredom_n for_o she_o paint_v her_o face_n and_o tire_v her_o head_n and_o look_v out_o at_o window_n the_o posture_n rather_o of_o a_o strumpet_n then_o of_o majesty_n as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o and_o therefore_o balaam_n and_o jezabel_n be_v here_o fit_o bring_v in_o by_o the_o spirit_n to_o personate_v this_o lewd_a nicolaitish_a sect_n and_o their_o great_a prophetess_n in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n observe_v 1._o hence_o note_v that_o it_o be_v no_o new_a defigne_n of_o satan_n to_o trouble_v the_o church_n with_o false_a she_o prophetess_n as_o there_o be_v false_a prophet_n balaamite_n and_o nicolaitan_n in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n so_o there_o be_v a_o false_a prophetess_n and_o a_o very_a impudent_a one_o of_o the_o same_o sect_n in_o thyatira_n if_o god_n will_v have_v he_o or_o she_o prophet_n the_o devil_n will_v be_v god_n ape_n and_o will_v have_v the_o same_o if_o god_n to_o honour_v that_o weak_a sex_n sometime_o raise_v up_o she_o prophet_n to_o help_v his_o people_n be_v sure_o the_o devil_n will_v be_v upon_o the_o same_o work_n he_o will_v have_v his_o jezabel_n his_o maximillae_n for_o her_o service_n also_o we_o find_v in_o ezekiel_n day_n there_o be_v false_a propheteses_n who_o sow_v pillow_n to_o ahe_fw-la armhole_n 13._o 1k_n 18._o prophesy_v please_v thing_n unto_o the_o people_n and_o neh._n 6.14_o there_o be_v mention_v make_v of_o one_o noadia_n a_o prophetess_n she_o with_o other_o false_a prophet_n prophesy_v against_o the_o build_n of_o the_o temple_n encourage_v sanballet_n and_o endeavour_v to_o discourage_v nehemiah_n and_o the_o bvilder_n of_o it_o and_o some_o such_o there_o be_v and_o will_v be_v in_o all_o age_n who_o with_o their_o false_a doctrine_n will_v deceive_v unwary_a people_n simon_n magus_n have_v his_o helena_n carpocrates_n his_o marcellina_n montanus_n have_v his_o prisca_n and_o maximillina_n and_o so_o all_o erroneous_a sect_n have_v their_o she_o prophetess_n as_o well_o as_o he_o prophet_n for_o the_o devil_n design_n thrive_v on_o both_o way_n observe_v 2._o false_a she_o prophetess_n be_v not_o only_o very_o bold_a but_o very_o subtle_a to_o deceive_v and_o seduce_v god_n servant_n from_o the_o truth_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v liken_v to_o jezabel_n a_o bold_a setter_n up_o of_o idolatry_n and_o a_o subtle_a deceiver_n as_o in_o the_o business_n of_o naboth_n and_o seek_v the_o death_n of_o the_o true_a prophet_n appear_v and_o it_o appear_v also_o henbe_n that_o this_o false_a nicolaitish_a prophetess_n be_v not_o only_o a_o very_a impudent_a one_o for_o she_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v but_o be_v also_o a_o very_a sly_a and_o subtle_a one_o or_o else_o she_o can_v not_o be_v say_v to_o deceive_v christ_n servant_n i_o conjecture_v that_o her_o practice_n be_v somewhat_o like_o the_o rant_a familist_n and_o antiscripturists_a of_o our_o day_n who_o pretend_v some_o high_a notion_n and_o transcendent_a matter_n above_o the_o common_a pitch_n of_o plain_a and_o wholesome_a doctrine_n and_o so_o fly_v beyond_o sobriety_n god_n suffer_v they_o to_o fall_v into_o the_o snare_n of_o satan_n and_o to_o deny_v the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o a_o rule_n to_o they_o and_o to_o stand_v in_o awe_n to_o sin_n be_v but_o of_o a_o legal_a spirit_n and_o of_o bondage_n and_o sin_n can_v at_o all_o reach_n god_n or_o offend_v his_o majesty_n and_o then_o they_o can_v free_o among_o the_o heathen_n as_o the_o nicolaitish_a christian_n do_v of_o old_a partake_v of_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o baal_n of_o bacchus_n priapus_n venus_n or_o any_o of_o their_o heathenish_a idol_n and_o can_v free_o without_o regret_n eat_v of_o their_o idolothite_n and_o join_v and_o commix_v with_o their_o corporal_a fornication_n also_o high_a and_o untrodden_a speculation_n and_o novelty_n carry_v the_o vizor_n of_o deceit_n with_o they_o wholesome_a doctrine_n be_v old_a and_o plain_a but_o novel_a and_o erroneous_a be_v hold_v forth_o in_o most_o high_a and_o unintelligible_a motion_n which_o false_a proprophet_n and_o prophetess_n on_o purpose_n make_v use_v of_o to_o amuse_v confound_v ensnare_v and_o deceive_v the_o easy_a credulous_a and_o simple_a people_n many_o of_o these_o false_a she_o prophetess_n go_v up_o and_o down_o with_o their_o new_a light_n new_a christ_n and_o new_a gospel_n and_o all_o within_o they_o in_o these_o very_a day_n of_o we_o a_o true_a branch_n of_o the_o old_a gnostic_n and_o nicolaitan_n observe_v 3._o some_o of_o god_n own_o faithful_a servant_n may_v be_v deceive_v and_o carry_v away_o by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o false_a teacher_n this_o jezeâ—el_n or_o false_a lady_n prophetess_n have_v seduce_v christ_n servant_n and_o have_v entice_v they_o to_o their_o filthy_a idolatry_n and_o adultery_n we_o know_v peter_n and_o barnabas_n be_v draw_v away_o by_o such_o into_o error_n gal_n 2.13_o 14_o the_o old_a lie_a prophet_n deceive_v the_o young_a prophet_n of_o god_n and_o draw_v he_o into_o a_o snare_n which_o cost_v he_o his_o life_n for_o a_o lion_n devour_v he_o 1_o kin._n 13._o christ_n have_v foretell_v we_o mat._n 24._o that_o many_o false_a prophet_n shall_v arise_v and_o deceive_v many_o but_o whence_o do_v they_o arise_v from_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n and_o do_v raise_v such_o a_o smoke_n with_o their_o false_a doctrine_n rev._n 9_o that_o they_o darken_v the_o heaven_n that_o be_v the_o gospel_n truth_n that_o the_o saint_n can_v clear_o see_v their_o way_n and_o therefore_o not_o strange_a if_o they_o stumble_v do_v not_o many_o precious_a soul_n stumble_v in_o the_o late_a day_n of_o prelacy_n and_o be_v turn_v away_o with_o their_o error_n and_o have_v not_o many_o stumble_v in_o these_o day_n of_o liberty_n and_o carry_v away_o and_o deceive_v by_o familistical_a anti-scriptural_a error_n and_o the_o like_a but_o see_v these_o thing_n be_v so_o let_v we_o hearken_v to_o the_o advice_n of_o peter_n 2_o epist_n 3.17_o 18._o beware_v lest_o you_o also_o be_v lead_v away_o with_o the_o error_n of_o the_o wicked_a fall_v from_o their_o own_o steadfastness_n but_o grow_v in_o grace_n and_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n but_o to_o return_v to_o the_o charge_n which_o be_v against_o thyatira_n and_o it_o be_v because_o she_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezebel_n a_o church_n be_v not_o so_o blame_v worthy_a for_o have_v a_o jezebel_n a_o false_a prophet_n or_o prophetess_n among_o they_o but_o for_o suffer_v for_o countenance_v own_v and_o free_o tolerate_v of_o they_o this_o be_v the_o crime_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n whence_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o toleration_n and_o indulgence_n of_o false_a teacher_n in_o a_o church_n be_v a_o great_a evil_n sure_o it_o be_v not_o the_o way_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o will_n to_o suffer_v opinion_n in_o a_o church_n that_o be_v dissonant_n from_o his_o truth_n that_o will_v corrupt_v the_o soul_n with_o sin_n though_o i_o shall_v plead_v for_o a_o just_a
liberty_n for_o tender_a conscience_n in_o point_n disputable_a and_o therein_o be_v not_o to_o be_v force_v against_o their_o judgement_n by_o any_o outward_a power_n to_o external_a conformity_n for_o that_o indeed_o be_v the_o way_n to_o bring_v they_o into_o the_o unity_n of_o uniformity_n but_o not_o into_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v a_o way_n to_o make_v hypocrite_n not_o saint_n yet_o nevertheless_o i_o shall_v not_o offer_v to_o open_v my_o mouth_n for_o a_o licentious_a liberty_n of_o pernicious_a doctrine_n or_o practice_n that_o be_v blasphemous_a idolatrous_a against_o god_n or_o his_o worship_n or_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n let_v such_o bear_v their_o censure_n and_o punishment_n not_o only_o that_o which_o be_v spiritual_a and_o of_o gospel_n warrant_n but_o that_o of_o the_o magistrate_n sword_n also_o he_o be_v custos_fw-la utriusque_fw-la tabulae_fw-la and_o to_o this_o end_n he_o bear_v the_o sword_n not_o in_o vain_a but_o i_o will_v always_o forelay_v this_o caution_n that_o none_o who_o life_n be_v sober_a and_o godly_a and_o desire_n to_o live_v peaceable_o with_o all_o in_o this_o present_a world_n for_o difference_n in_o judgement_n shall_v be_v ensnare_v hereby_o but_o for_o a_o very_a little_a space_n shall_v we_o suffer_v a_o jezebel_n and_o impudent_a immodest_a or_o idolatrous_a false_a teacher_n in_o a_o church_n we_o shall_v not_o bear_v with_o it_o a_o hour_n for_o that_o which_o god_n have_v real_o declare_v himself_o against_o from_o heaven_n we_o shall_v be_v adversary_n to_o it_o also_o and_o that_o which_o god_n have_v a_o controversy_n with_o and_o be_v against_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o great_a evil_n and_o the_o great_a evil_n of_o tolerate_v false_a teacher_n in_o a_o church_n appear_v clear_o in_o these_o particular_n first_o in_o that_o they_o blaspheme_v god_n and_o his_o authority_n say_v the_o lord_n send_v they_o and_o speak_v unto_o they_o when_o the_o lord_n never_o appear_v to_o they_o second_o they_o cross_v god_n in_o his_o design_n god_n call_v his_o people_n to_o holiness_n peace_n and_o unity_n but_o false_a teacher_n set_v up_o some_o ungodly_a doctrine_n or_o practice_n to_o the_o undo_n of_o soul_n three_o they_o sadden_fw-mi the_o heart_n of_o the_o righteous_a by_o their_o lie_n and_o vanity_n four_o they_o corrupt_v the_o soul_n of_o god_n servant_n they_o deceive_v they_o and_o entice_v they_o into_o the_o snare_n of_o their_o abomination_n five_o they_o provoke_v god_n to_o become_v a_o enemy_n to_o such_o assembly_n as_o do_v embrace_v they_o or_o own_v they_o and_o final_o undo_v poor_a soul_n for_o ever_o without_o repentance_n quest_n if_o a_o free_a toleration_n of_o false_a teacher_n be_v so_o great_a a_o evil_n in_o a_o church_n the_o question_n will_v be_v in_o who_o power_n be_v it_o lawful_o and_o juridical_o to_o remove_v they_o answ_n doubtless_o the_o particular_a church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o have_v the_o check_n and_o against_o who_o alone_a christ_n lay_v the_o charge_n for_o tolerate_v the_o woman_n jezebel_n have_v the_o sole_a power_n of_o remove_v the_o evil_a from_o among_o they_o for_o what_o a_o unreasonable_a thing_n will_v it_o be_v that_o god_n shall_v lay_v the_o charge_n of_o this_o sin_n against_o thyatira_n for_o tolerate_v jezebel_n be_v it_o not_o in_o the_o church_n power_n there_o within_o themselves_o to_o remedy_n remove_v and_o eject_v that_o false_a prophetess_n christ_n never_o blame_v any_o one_o of_o those_o seven_o church_n for_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v suffer_v in_o another_o not_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o thyatira_n nor_o thyatira_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o sardis_n or_o laodicea_n but_o every_o one_o be_v charge_v particular_o for_o their_o own_o sin_n neither_o be_v the_o more_o pure_a church_n of_o ephesus_n smyrna_n or_o philadelphia_n empower_v command_v or_o authorise_v either_o joint_n in_o a_o combination_n as_o a_o classical_a presbytery_n or_o single_o as_o a_o prelatical_a superintendent_n over_o the_o rest_n to_o remove_v or_o reform_v the_o evil_n among_o the_o rest_n but_o every_o one_o be_v commend_v apart_o for_o their_o respective_a grace_n and_o every_o one_o by_o itself_o be_v command_v to_o repent_v and_o reform_v apart_o from_o their_o sinful_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n in_o the_o day_n of_o those_o seven_o church_n and_o some_o age_n after_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n of_o a_o lording_n episcopacy_n or_o presbytery_n over_o many_o church_n of_o christ_n at_o once_o but_o that_o every_o particular_a church_n of_o christ_n have_v then_o full_a power_n and_o jurisdiction_n within_o themselves_o all_o alike_o and_o of_o one_o extent_n within_o their_o own_o boundary_n and_o that_o superiority_n in_o church_n come_v in_o with_o the_o defection_n and_o fall_v away_o which_o be_v foment_v and_z nourish_v by_o the_o pride_n of_o the_o bishop_n till_o at_o last_o it_o become_v pure_o antichristian_a we_o know_v all_o church_n be_v sister_n and_o therefore_o equal_a in_o power_n and_o privilege_n under_o one_o spiritual_a head_n that_o be_v christ_n gal._n 1.18_o par_fw-fr in_fw-la parem_fw-la non_fw-la habet_fw-la imperium_fw-la equal_v can_v have_v no_o power_n over_o equal_n unless_o by_o usurpation_n or_o tyranny_n or_o otherwise_o by_o compact_n if_o it_o be_v only_o by_o compact_n and_o agreement_n as_o when_o among_o ourselves_o and_o equal_n we_o choose_v our_o parliament_n man_n to_o be_v our_o legislator_n and_o ruler_n but_o if_o so_o church_n that_o be_v of_o equal_a authority_n get_v a_o power_n into_o their_o own_o hand_n by_o agreement_n among_o themselves_o over_o the_o rest_n of_o their_o sister_n church_n call_v it_o what_o you_o will_v either_o classical_a provincial_a or_o national_a sure_o at_o best_a it_o be_v but_o of_o a_o prudential_a and_o civil_a institution_n and_o to_o give_v it_o a_o divine_a stamp_n be_v more_o than_o it_o will_v bear_v peruse_v cap._n 2._o vers_fw-la 2._o last_o past_o where_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n thou_o can_v not_o bear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o thou_o have_v try_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o thou_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n m._n perkins_n on_o that_o vers_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n god_n give_v a_o full_a juridical_a power_n either_o to_o admit_v or_o keep_v out_o examine_v or_o cast_v out_o suspend_v or_o do_v any_o other_o juridical_a act_n or_o act_n whatsoever_o that_o be_v needful_a in_o a_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n the_o apostle_n write_v in_o all_o their_o epistle_n to_o the_o respective_a church_n as_o distinct_a church_n without_o dependency_n upon_o any_o but_o upon_o jesus_n christ_n their_o head_n king_n and_o sovereign_n actâ—_n 15.22_o 1_o cor._n 5.4_o 5._o rom._n 1.6_o 1._o col._n 1_o 2_o 24._o ephes_n 5.24_o they_o be_v all_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n under_o one_o head_n the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n to_o one_o husband_n sister_n of_o one_o mother_n cant._n 8.8_o none_o of_o they_o be_v servant_n or_o slave_n to_o the_o other_o not_o hagar_n but_o sarahs_n free_a and_o equal_a all_o of_o they_o be_v spouse_n of_o christ_n of_o equal_a privilege_n and_o authority_n all_o of_o they_o be_v golden_a candlestick_n shine_v church_n among_o who_o christ_n equal_o walk_v rev._n 1.12_o all_o have_v equal_a and_o like_a power_n of_o open_v and_o shut_v admit_v and_o reject_v receive_v or_o deny_v and_o for_o one_o church_n to_o usurp_v authority_n over_o another_o be_v at_o best_a but_o a_o diotrephes-like_a spirit_n and_o of_o a_o prelatical_a humour_n which_o do_v very_o little_o comport_v with_o the_o truth_n of_o these_o scripture_n mat_n 16.16_o act_n 9.26.14.23_o rev._n 2.2_o act._n 1.15_o 6_o 2_o 3._o mat._n 18.17_o 18._o 1_o cor._n 5.4_o 5._o 2_o cor._n 2.5_o 6._o quest_n 2._o but_o another_o question_n may_v hence_o arise_v whether_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n chief_a officer_n pastor_n or_o minister_n can_v alone_o remove_v this_o jezebel_n legal_o and_o judicial_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o church_n and_o fraternity_n which_o be_v in_o fellowship_n with_o he_o or_o whither_o that_o which_o be_v call_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v single_o in_o the_o officer_n and_o eldership_n or_o joint_o in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n elder_n and_o brethren_n together_o i_o answer_v first_o understand_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n that_o be_v the_o sign_n be_v put_v for_o the_o the_o thing_n signify_v the_o key_n the_o ensign_n of_o authority_n for_o authority_n itself_o and_o this_o authority_n be_v either_o first_o supreme_a and_o monarchical_a and_o this_o reside_v only_o in_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v sole_a king_n and_o lawgiver_n of_o his_o church_n and_o so_o he_o be_v head_n of_o the_o body_n and_o he_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n and_o open_v and_o no_o
man_n shut_v shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v rev._n 3.7_o and_o so_o he_o have_v the_o power_n both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o execute_v the_o office_n of_o a_o headship_n and_o none_o but_o he_o isa_n 9_o 6._o col._n 1.18_o ephes_n 5.23_o second_o there_o be_v a_o delegated_a or_o ministerial_a power_n which_o be_v give_v by_o christ_n to_o his_o church_n and_o this_o be_v 1_o either_o the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o election_n or_o 2._o of_o office_n and_o authority_n the_o whole_a body_n have_v power_n of_o choose_v admit_v receive_v or_o of_o reject_v and_o censure_v and_o so_o the_o whole_a be_v above_o any_o particular_a member_n or_o officer_n but_o second_o the_o power_n of_o office_n be_v not_o in_o the_o multitude_n but_o in_o some_o one_o or_o more_o as_o pastor_n elder_n and_o the_o like_a which_o they_o have_v call_v to_o this_o authority_n and_o ministerial_a office_n and_o so_o be_v in_o a_o high_a authority_n though_o inferior_a to_o the_o whole_a than_o any_o other_o private_a member_n whatsoever_o so_o that_o whatsoever_o the_o whole_a church_n do_v judicial_o act_v or_o censure_v the_o power_n of_o office_n be_v to_o precede_v therein_o and_o all_o what_o be_v do_v thereby_o it_o be_v still_o in_o ordine_fw-la ad_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la and_o hence_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o censure_v be_v not_o a_o power_n of_o office_n in_o the_o brethren_n over_o their_o elder_n as_o some_o will_v object_v but_o a_o distinct_a power_n and_o the_o one_o be_v essential_a to_o a_o church_n as_o that_o of_o judgement_n but_o that_o of_o 〈◊〉_d and_o rule_n be_v mere_o accidental_a and_o it_o may_v be_v or_o not_o be_v in_o a_o church_n sine_fw-la interritu_fw-la subjecto_fw-la so_o hence_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n have_v the_o essential_a power_n of_o the_o key_n in_o her_o officer_n and_o fraternity_n as_o in_o one_o origanical_a body_n joint_o together_o for_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o woman_n jezabel_n for_o how_o unreasonable_a a_o thing_n be_v it_o to_o conceive_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v lay_v a_o chece_n upon_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n for_o suffer_v the_o idolatry_n of_o jezabel_n among_o they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o they_o but_o in_o the_o officer_n power_n alone_o for_o the_o removal_n of_o they_o we_o shall_v think_v he_o a_o hard_a father_n or_o master_n if_o not_o somewhat_o senfless_a and_o beside_o himself_o that_o will_v will_v will_v whip_v all_o his_o child_n and_o servant_n with_o stripe_n for_o the_o neglect_v miscarriage_n and_o fault_n of_o the_o chief_a steward_n of_o the_o house_n and_o shall_v we_o judge_v this_o a_o hard_a matter_n among_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v we_o not_o judge_v it_o far_o from_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o mercful_a deal_n towards_o we_o that_o he_o shall_v put_v a_o check_n upoh_o we_o and_o come_v against_o we_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n for_o tolerate_v evil_n among_o we_o which_o be_v not_o in_o our_o power_n to_o reform_v or_o remedy_n far_o be_v these_o conceit_n from_o our_o thought_n and_o judgement_n concern_v god_n and_o his_o righteous_a judgement_n towards_o we_o doubtless_o the_o whole_a combine_a church_n of_o thyatira_n have_v power_n to_o remove_v her_o scandal_n although_o the_o charge_n be_v superscribe_v 〈◊〉_d the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n woite_n i_o know_v thy_o love_n thy_o service_n thy_o faith_n and_o thy_o patience_n notwithstanding_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o the_o pastor_n officer_n or_o minister_n be_v god_n angel_n they_o receive_v from_o god_n his_o message_n and_o deliver_v they_o to_o the_o people_n they_o be_v aâ—_n it_o be_v god_n mouth_n unto_o they_o and_o acquaint_v they_o with_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n what_o god_n have_v to_o say_v unto_o they_o either_o for_o their_o encouragement_n or_o for_o their_o reprehension_n so_o this_o check_n and_o message_n here_o be_v not_o lay_v or_o send_v only_o on_o the_o angel_n or_o pastor_n of_o thyatira_n but_o on_o the_o whole_a church_n col._n 1.11_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n the_o angel_n be_v but_o the_o hand_n and_o instrument_n for_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o though_o he_o shall_v first_o move_v and_o lead_v to_o the_o removove_a and_o censure_v of_o this_o harlot_n jezabel_n and_o yet_o be_v neglegent_fw-la rmiss_o and_o dormant_a therein_o that_o shall_v not_o excuse_v this_o church_n if_o they_o be_v find_v guilty_a with_o he_o in_o the_o same_o sinful_a connivance_n and_o compliance_n for_o i_o will_v give_v unto_o every_o one_o of_o you_o say_v christ_n according_a to_o their_o work_n if_o you_o will_v indulge_v and_o comply_v with_o jezabel_n and_o her_o curse_a doctrine_n you_o shall_v suffer_v with_o she_o but_o if_o you_o shall_v overcome_v and_o escape_v her_o falsity_n you_o shall_v have_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o censure_v be_v in_o the_o officer_n only_o directive_o but_o in_o the_o whole_a church_n formaliter_fw-la and_o effectual_o the_o whole_a church_n can_v act_v out_o of_o office_n neither_o can_v the_o officer_n or_o presbyter_n act_v in_o judgement_n or_o censure_v without_o the_o aprobation_n and_o assent_n of_o the_o church_n and_o fraternity_n mr._n rutherford_n the_o great_a learned_a champion_n for_o presbytery_n write_v thus_o in_o favour_n of_o this_o way_n and_o judgement_n lib._n 1._o pag._n 49._o here_o grave_a beza_n our_o divine_n calvin_n bucer_n bullinger_n melancthon_n bucan_n pareus_n rivetus_n sibrandus_fw-la junius_n trelcatius_n the_o father_n cyprian_n jerome_n augustine_n nazianzene_n chrisostome_n ambrose_n theodoret_n theophilact_fw-mi require_v all_o to_o be_v do_v to_o wit_n about_o excommunication_n and_o censure_v plebe_fw-la consentiente_fw-la and_o why_o shall_v their_o consent_n be_v desire_v if_o the_o elder_n will_v do_v it_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n peter_n martyr_n be_v peremptory_a in_o his_o common_a place_n sect._n 9_o unde_fw-la concluditur_fw-la non_fw-la absque_fw-la commensa_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la quempiam_fw-la excommunicari_fw-la posse_fw-la and_o this_o hereon_o shall_v suffice_v see_v more_o former_o in_o the_o 2_o vers_n of_o this_o cap._n verse_n 21._o i_o give_v her_o space_n to_o repent_v of_o her_o fornication_n and_o she_o repent_v not_o verse_n 22._o behold_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n though_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v very_o faulty_a in_o suffer_v the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezebel_n within_o she_o and_o though_o the_o abomination_n of_o this_o false_a prophetess_n be_v high_o provoke_v sin_n against_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n yet_o god_n be_v please_v to_o give_v unto_o this_o false_a prophetess_n and_o to_o the_o church_n that_o entertain_v she_o a_o space_n not_o a_o little_a but_o a_o long_a tract_n of_o time_n to_o repent_v of_o her_o spiritual_a and_o corporal_a fornication_n and_o yet_o â—he_v slight_v the_o long_a suffering_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v lead_v she_o to_o repentance_n and_o she_o repent_v not_o whereupon_o christ_n lay_v a_o index_n a_o mark_n a_o asterisme_n upon_o she_o not_o such_o a_o mark_n as_o he_o lay_v on_o his_o elect_a one_o of_o love_n and_o favour_n but_o the_o contrary_a of_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n behold_v as_o much_o to_o say_v as_o let_v all_o see_v take_v notice_n &_o admire_v of_o the_o righteous_a judgement_n i_o be_o go_v about_o to_o pour_v forth_o on_o this_o false_a impenitent_a prophetess_n and_o her_o adherent_n i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n as_o she_o have_v play_v the_o harlot_n under_o her_o green_a coverture_n both_o in_o her_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o as_o she_o make_v her_o bed_n the_o place_n of_o her_o abomination_n so_o i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o another_o bed_n a_o bed_n of_o my_o own_o make_n not_o of_o down_n or_o of_o wanton_a dalliance_n but_o a_o bed_n of_o affliction_n a_o bed_n of_o tribulation_n and_o of_o much_o anguish_n if_o nothing_o will_v cure_v she_o if_o she_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o my_o gracious_a precaution_n if_o she_o will_v not_o repent_v for_o all_o my_o gracious_a deal_n and_o long_a suffering_n towards_o she_o i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n i_o will_v make_v her_o sick_a unto_o the_o very_a heart_n it_o shall_v be_v a_o bed_n of_o great_a tribulation_n and_o if_o all_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v with_o she_o to_o reform_v and_o amend_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o another_o bed_n a_o bed_n of_o death_n and_o not_o only_o she_o but_o all_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o
life_n in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n all_o be_v variety_n of_o expression_n to_o set_v forth_o the_o great_a and_o excellent_a glory_n of_o the_o other_o world_n christ_n do_v former_o promise_v the_o participation_n of_o himself_o in_o that_o his_o glorious_a kingdom_n to_o the_o conquer_a saint_n under_o the_o type_n of_o hide_a manna_n tree_n of_o life_n and_o in_o this_o verse_n as_o the_o morning_n star_n christ_n be_v the_o bright_a morning_n star_n first_o because_o he_o than_o bring_v comfort_n with_o he_o to_o his_o afflict_a church_n second_o he_o bring_v light_a with_o he_o to_o his_o ancient_a people_n the_o jew_n that_o now_o sit_v in_o darkness_n and_o in_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n rom._n 11.25_o 2_o pet._n 1.19_o this_o morning_n star_n be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o sun_n that_o rise_v in_o malachy_n 4.2_o with_o heal_v in_o his_o wing_n and_o must_v of_o necessity_n signify_v christ_n personal_a appearance_n again_o as_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o crown_n and_o reward_n of_o his_o faithful_a one_o and_o for_o the_o heal_n enlighten_v and_o conversion_n of_o his_o ancient_a church_n and_o people_n the_o jew_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o christ_n will_v appear_v again_o to_o the_o comfort_n of_o his_o afflict_a gentile_a church_n and_o to_o the_o enlighten_v and_o conversion_n of_o his_o ancient_a people_n the_o jew_n before_o the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o all_o and_o general_a judgement_n because_o then_o be_v a_o day_n of_o total_a destruction_n not_o a_o appearance_n for_o the_o conversion_n of_o they_o that_o be_v in_o unbelief_n that_o be_v the_o time_n when_o the_o saint_n receive_v their_o utmost_a glory_n not_o strive_v roll_a and_o overpowering_a the_o nation_n christ_n then_o deliver_v up_o all_o power_n unto_o the_o father_n 1_o cor._n 15.24_o therefore_o that_o be_v no_o day_n to_o give_v power_n into_o their_o hand_n over_o the_o nation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o ultimate_a judgement_n gog_n and_o magog_n and_o all_o the_o church_n enemy_n be_v catch_v and_o cast_v into_o the_o lake_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n for_o evermore_o cap._n 19_o 20._o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o day_n of_o rule_v over_o they_o for_o that_o day_n than_o will_v be_v past_a and_o over_o to_o conclude_v the_o saint_n temporal_a reign_n begin_v with_o the_o appearance_n of_o this_o morning_n star_n and_o end_n with_o the_o final_a destruction_n of_o all_o the_o wicked_a but_o their_o heavenly_a glory_n shall_v never_o end_v and_o for_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o chapter_n verse_n 29._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n let_v the_o wise_a intelligent_a christian_n consider_v and_o ponder_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o each_o of_o these_o church_n and_o from_o the_o often_o repetition_n of_o the_o spirit_n memento_n in_o these_o word_n take_v this_o conclusion_n that_o christ_n doctrine_n and_o prophecy_n can_v be_v too_o often_o inculcate_v upon_o the_o heart_n and_o memory_n of_o his_o people_n chap._n iii_o verse_n 1._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n in_o sardis_n write_v these_o these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a christ_n proceed_v with_o his_o charge_n against_o the_o church_n at_o sardis_n superscribe_v unto_o the_o angel_n or_o chief_a minister_n of_o that_o church_n for_o the_o reason_n before_o specify_v chap._n 2._o v._n 1._o write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o can_v join_v unto_o their_o interpretation_n that_o make_v the_o seven_o spirit_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n to_o be_v all_o one_o to_o wit_n christ_n seven_o angel_n of_o his_o church_n which_o he_o carry_v in_o his_o hand_n cap._n 1._o 20._o so_o it_o will_v seem_v a_o tautology_n whilst_o a_o more_o convenient_a sense_n may_v be_v find_v applicable_a to_o it_o to_o wit_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o his_o sevenfold_a grace_n and_o perfection_n for_o the_o number_n seven_o in_o all_o prophetical_a writing_n do_v intimate_v perfection_n as_o cap._n 1._o 5._o and_o 4._o 5._o and_o this_o sevenfold_a spirit_n of_o perfection_n be_v christ_n own_o spirit_n and_o be_v send_v by_o he_o and_o at_o his_o disposal_n and_o therefore_o christ_n may_v be_v true_o verify_v to_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o the_o sevenfold_a operate_a spirit_n of_o god_n as_o well_o as_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o hand_n and_o disposal_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o gracious_a ministry_n be_v the_o special_a inseparable_a gift_n of_o christ_n towards_o his_o church_n they_o be_v inseparable_a companion_n where_o the_o one_o do_v go_v the_o other_o be_v present_a also_o if_o christ_n come_v with_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n he_o come_v with_o the_o seven_o spirit_n in_o his_o left_a hand_n to_o that_o people_n also_o a_o true_a ministry_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v never_o separate_v though_o i_o shall_v not_o tie_v up_o god_n to_o those_o mean_n only_o yet_o ordinary_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o expect_v christ_n in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o spirit_n without_o the_o ministerial_a adminstration_n of_o his_o star_n and_o angel_n they_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o charioteer_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o word_n be_v the_o spirit_n be_v vehiculum_fw-la or_o chariot_n but_o the_o minister_n thereof_o be_v those_o that_o carry_v and_o support_v this_o chariot_n on_o the_o shoulder_n never_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n the_o glory_n of_o this_o chariot_n will_v come_v or_o rest_n in_o our_o temple_n unless_o it_o be_v bring_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o foot_n of_o those_o star_n those_o beautiful_a one_o that_o bring_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o peace_n god_n have_v so_o link_v together_o in_o his_o alwise_a decree_n and_o predetermination_n the_o concatenation_n of_o subordinate_a cause_n or_o medium_n unto_o salvation_n that_o ordinary_o one_o can_v be_v effect_v without_o the_o other_o and_o so_o we_o be_v save_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n through_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o word_n one_o will_v not_o do_v this_o work_n without_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o other_o but_o when_o christ_n come_v with_o they_o joint_o together_o either_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n or_o church_n he_o make_v they_o of_o a_o wilderness_n and_o a_o land_n of_o darkness_n a_o goshen_n and_o a_o land_n of_o light_n and_o happy_a be_v that_o people_n to_o who_o christ_n so_o come_v with_o his_o seven_o spirit_n and_o his_o seven_o star_n with_o his_o gracious_a spirit_n and_o spiritual_a ministry_n and_o for_o such_o who_o lot_n be_v fall_v in_o such_o a_o land_n i_o say_v their_o lot_n be_v fall_v in_o a_o goodly_a heritage_n but_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o christ_n here_o appear_v under_o this_o representation_n of_o one_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o answer_v christ_n be_v upon_o discovery_n of_o the_o hypocritical_a defection_n of_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o thererefore_o he_o need_v to_o appear_v not_o only_o under_o a_o search_a pierce_a and_o spiritual_a administration_n as_o one_o that_o can_v search_v the_o reins_n and_o heart_n cap._n 2._o 23._o and_o as_o one_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o the_o sevenfold_a search_a spirit_n of_o god_n which_o know_v the_o hide_a thing_n of_o man_n but_o also_o under_o a_o lightsome_a administration_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n for_o a_o further_a discovery_n and_o conviction_n of_o their_o hypocritical_a practice_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n hide_a hypocrisy_n and_o inward_a rottenness_n be_v search_v out_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o make_v manifest_a by_o the_o true_a light_n and_o ministry_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n angel_n or_o minister_n of_o the_o word_n he_o fall_v upon_o they_o with_o his_o charge_n against_o they_o and_o tell_v they_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a hence_o by_o the_o way_n note_v observe_v that_o christ_n spiritual_a ministry_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o minister_n and_o ambassador_n can_v try_v the_o secret_a and_o hide_a thing_n of_o man_n the_o spiritual_a man_n say_v the_o apostle_n judge_v all_o thing_n and_o be_v judge_v of_o none_o and_o if_o a_o private_a spiritual_a member_n may_v judge_v judicio_fw-la discretionis_fw-la then_o sure_o much_o more_o the_o public_a ambassador_n and_o authorise_a minister_n of_o christ_n they_o can_v try_v by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n whither_o our_o work_n &_o profession_n
be_v only_o in_o name_n and_o outward_a or_o whither_o inward_a and_o sincere_a they_o be_v the_o master_n of_o the_o assembly_n and_o the_o experience_a elder_n of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o be_v and_o aught_o to_o precede_v and_o excel_v all_o other_o in_o every_o spiritual_a work_n and_o service_n whatsoever_o observe_v another_o note_n hence_o be_v that_o the_o spirits_n method_n be_v first_o to_o convince_v of_o sin_n before_o it_o manifest_v its_o remedy_n against_o sin_n the_o whole_a say_v christ_n need_v not_o the_o physician_n but_o the_o sensible_a sick_a and_o wound_a christ_n first_o convince_v sardis_n that_o she_o have_v only_o a_o name_n that_o she_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a before_o he_o lay_v down_o her_o remedy_n in_o the_o three_o ver_fw-la in_o bring_v she_o to_o repentance_n so_o he_o deal_v with_o pergamus_n thyatira_n and_o other_o delinquent_a church_n also_o it_o be_v a_o anti-scriptural_a method_n of_o some_o that_o preach_v up_o faith_n and_o repentance_n unto_o a_o sinful_a and_o backslidden_a people_n before_o they_o have_v first_o full_o convince_v they_o by_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o word_n that_o they_o be_v under_o bondage_n sin_n and_o misery_n this_o be_v no_o legal_a method_n as_o the_o antinomist_n do_v conjecture_v but_o of_o a_o spiritual_a and_o gospel_n spirit_n for_o unless_o we_o be_v first_o sensible_o convince_v of_o our_o loss_n and_o misery_n by_o sin_n how_o shall_v we_o look_v for_o a_o saviour_n or_o salvation_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n all_o the_o primitive_a convert_n that_o we_o read_v of_o be_v first_o prick_v unto_o their_o heart_n for_o sin_n before_o they_o ask_v what_o shall_v we_o do_v to_o be_v save_v act_n 2._o but_o to_o return_v to_o christ_n charge_n against_o sardis_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n for_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v thou_o have_v a_o name_n a_o reputation_n that_o thou_o live_v that_o be_v that_o thou_o be_v a_o faithful_a profess_v church_n and_o live_v in_o i_o by_o faith_n but_o thou_o be_v dead_a that_o be_v not_o altogether_o dead_a for_o than_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o put_v she_o afterward_o to_o strengthen_v the_o remainder_n of_o grace_n but_o as_o good_a as_o dead_a low_a weak_a and_o infirm_a and_o that_o faith_n and_o profession_n which_o thou_o pretend_v to_o be_v in_o thou_o be_v but_o as_o a_o dead_a profession_n and_o liveless_a faith_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o though_o church_n may_v carry_v a_o fair_a outward_a profession_n and_o a_o common_a reputation_n of_o faithful_a one_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v very_o hipocritical_a and_o no_o better_a than_o dead_a liveless_a and_o rot_a at_o the_o root_n this_o church_n at_o sardis_n have_v a_o name_n that_o she_o live_v but_o she_o be_v dead_a her_o grace_n be_v even_o at_o death_n door_n yet_o still_o will_v keep_v up_o the_o name_n of_o a_o christian_n church_n who_o high_a in_o profession_n and_o name_n then_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n do_v she_o not_o take_v unto_o herself_o and_o go_v under_o the_o name_n of_o catholic_a as_o if_o she_o have_v be_v the_o only_a church_n that_o hold_v the_o general_a faith_n deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n and_o yet_o what_o church_n more_o dead_a and_o rot_a then_o she_o notwithstanding_o our_o nominal_a faith_n and_o common-reputed_n christianity_n among_o we_o yet_o we_o may_v be_v dead_a to_o all_o motion_n and_o operation_n of_o all_o true_a spiritual_a life_n in_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n cap._n 2._o 9_o they_o be_v those_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n but_o they_o be_v not_o and_o christ_n tell_v they_o i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o that_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n &_o be_v not_o but_o be_v of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n it_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o blasphemy_n and_o dishonour_n do_v unto_o god_n when_o under_o the_o cover_n of_o profession_n we_o endeavour_v to_o excuse_v our_o error_n and_o profaneness_n open_v opposition_n be_v less_o dishonourable_a unto_o god_n then_o impure_a and_o dead_a life_n under_o the_o vizor_n of_o profession_n mat._n 21.28_o 29._o that_o froward_a son_n in_o the_o parable_n be_v less_o guilty_a that_o say_v he_o will_v not_o do_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n than_o he_o that_o say_v i_o will_v and_o do_v it_o not_o james_n resolve_v the_o question_n in_o that_o interrogation_n of_o he_o cap._n 2._o 14_o what_o do_v it_o profit_n if_o a_o man_n say_v he_o have_v faith_n and_o have_v not_o work_n can_v faith_n save_v he_o mean_v a_o dead_a nominal_a faith_n without_o fruit_n and_o work_n so_o will_v i_o put_v the_o question_n here_o what_o will_v the_o pretend_a faith_n and_o christianity_n of_o our_o nominal_a and_o national_a christian_n profit_n or_o advantage_v they_o the_o devil_n have_v such_o a_o faith_n that_o be_v only_o in_o the_o tongue_n and_o the_o lip_n and_o yet_o fare_v enough_o from_o salvation_n or_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n these_o formal_a outward_a grace_n be_v so_o far_o from_o bring_v in_o any_o real_a comfort_n or_o hope_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o future_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o only_o have_v they_o that_o they_o bring_v in_o real_a disadvantage_n and_o loss_n unto_o they_o for_o they_o argue_v a_o conviction_n of_o the_o truth_n yet_o a_o refusal_n thereof_o in_o the_o love_n and_o power_n thereof_o and_o second_o it_o have_v be_v always_o a_o hard_a work_n of_o the_o ministry_n to_o bring_v pretend_v and_o formal_a professor_n unto_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n then_o open_a harlot_n publican_n and_o sinner_n witness_v the_o pharisee_n of_o old_a in_o christ_n day_n and_o the_o national_a formal_a jew_n who_o will_v boast_v of_o their_o carnal_a privilege_n and_o of_o have_v abraham_n to_o their_o father_n and_o the_o oracle_n and_o temple_n of_o god_n among_o they_o somewhat_o like_o the_o late_a levitical_a prelatical_a tribe_n among_o we_o and_o yet_o who_o more_o blind_a and_o dead_a than_o they_o unto_o true_a spiritual_a knowledge_n and_o who_o more_o eager_a persecutor_n and_o enemy_n to_o christ_n his_o way_n and_o saint_n than_o those_o formal_a national_a jew_n who_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n but_o to_o give_v you_o a_o test_n and_o taste_v to_o try_v whither_o your_o profession_n and_o faith_n be_v a_o live_a profession_n and_o faith_n or_o not_o first_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n unit_v we_o to_o christ_n and_o draw_v life_n and_o virtue_n from_o he_o i_o live_v by_o faith_n in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n gal._n 2.20_o you_o know_v there_o be_v life_n in_o a_o body_n by_o the_o notion_n and_o beat_n of_o the_o pulse_n a_o live_a faith_n will_v be_v active_a and_o discover_v itself_o in_o some_o gracious_a effect_n and_o operation_n if_o christ_n be_v in_o you_o he_o will_v live_v in_o you_o he_o will_v not_o be_v dead_a and_o idle_a but_o be_v move_v in_o you_o to_o gracious_a duty_n and_o operation_n for_o there_o be_v none_o live_v in_o christ_n but_o he_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n io._n 15.5_o it_o be_v true_a faith_n may_v not_o always_o be_v alike_o lively_a and_o active_a but_o where_o it_o be_v true_a and_o real_a it_o will_v be_v always_o live_v and_o though_o you_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o its_o activity_n yet_o you_o will_v be_v sensible_a of_o deadness_n and_o complain_v under_o it_o which_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o a_o live_a faith_n though_o not_o a_o lively_a one_o second_o where_o this_o true_a faith_n be_v there_o will_v be_v its_o constant_a concomitant_a that_o forcible_a principle_n love_n see_v cap._n 2._o 19_o affection_n follow_v persuasion_n and_o where_o love_n be_v there_o will_v be_v service_n and_o work_v for_o faith_n work_v by_o love_n for_o when_o we_o apprehend_v by_o faith_n god_n love_n in_o christ_n to_o we_o it_o beget_v in_o we_o a_o return_n of_o love_n and_o act_n of_o service_n and_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n true_a faith_n will_v not_o be_v idle_a but_o will_v be_v a_o work_a faith_n and_o will_v produce_v that_o labour_n of_o love_n mention_v heb._n 6.10_o 1_o thess_n 1.3_o three_o a_o live_a faith_n must_v needs_o be_v active_a be_v wrought_v by_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n of_o christ_n help_n engage_v to_o action_n and_o where_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n shall_v work_v who_o shall_v resist_v his_o power_n four_o where_o true_a faith_n be_v there_o will_v be_v high_a aim_n to_o glorify_v god_n for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v so_o disingenuous_a to_o take_v and_o receive_v mercy_n from_o god_n but_o it_o will_v study_v how_o to_o give_v and_o render_v unto_o god_n due_a praise_n and_o glory_n for_o it_o for_o we_o be_v not_o redeem_v by_o christ_n to_o live_v unto_o ourselves_o but_o to_o glorify_v god_n in_o our_o soul_n
receive_v to_o and_o by_o soul_n before_o they_o can_v act_v towards_o god_n in_o the_o least_o acceptable_a service_n object_n but_o then_o again_o some_o one_o may_v say_v if_o the_o small_a remain_v of_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o sardis_n be_v almost_o dead_a or_o ready_a to_o die_v do_v not_o this_o argue_v a_o fall_v away_o and_o a_o possibility_n of_o the_o faithful_a to_o perish_v total_o answ_n grace_n may_v be_v very_o low_a and_o yet_o not_o dead_a it_o be_v as_o spark_n of_o fire_n under_o much_o ash_n with_o sardis_n and_o yet_o we_o know_v spark_n be_v as_o real_a fire_n though_o not_o as_o fervent_a and_o virtual_a as_o a_o flame_a one_o indeed_o it_o be_v low_a with_o sardis_n in_o her_o spiritual_a condition_n and_o it_o be_v most_o just_a with_o god_n when_o we_o be_v great_a sinner_n against_o he_o that_o he_o hide_v much_o of_o his_o gracious_a presence_n from_o we_o when_o by_o sin_n we_o quench_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n god_n may_v just_o quench_v its_o effect_n towards_o we_o but_o no_o soon_o shall_v we_o follow_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o renew_v by_o repentance_n but_o present_o god_n give_v a_o more_o enliven_a and_o effectual_a spirit_n into_o our_o soul_n and_o notwithstanding_o his_o former_a withdrawing_n yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o fatherly_a chastisement_n not_o a_o utter_a dereliction_n and_o forsake_v second_o i_o answer_v person_n that_o be_v elect_a and_o have_v real_o taste_v of_o the_o virtue_n of_o christ_n death_n and_o intercession_n can_v never_o utter_o fall_v away_o unless_o they_o will_v make_v the_o power_n wisdom_n and_o preordination_n of_o god_n to_o be_v weak_a and_o fallible_a and_o the_o death_n and_o intercession_n of_o christ_n impotent_a and_o insufficient_a unto_o that_o end_n to_o which_o it_o be_v ordain_v yet_o withal_o i_o assert_v though_o elect_a person_n can_v utter_o fall_v away_o as_o be_v give_v by_o the_o father_n unto_o christ_n and_o none_o such_o can_v be_v cast_v away_o be_v help_v by_o the_o mighty_a powâ—â—_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n yet_o election_n of_o a_o state_n of_o person_n may_v fail_v and_o perish_v as_o to_o instance_n in_o the_o jewish_a nation_n the_o election_n thereof_o do_v obtain_v rom._n 11.7_o to_o wit_n those_o that_o do_v pertain_v to_o the_o election_n of_o god_n in_o that_o nation_n do_v obtain_v mercy_n and_o reconciliation_n by_o christ_n yet_o at_o last_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o that_o nation_n the_o election_n of_o god_n do_v fail_v as_o respect_v that_o state_n and_o nation_n and_o the_o axe_n be_v lay_v unto_o the_o root_n and_o that_o good_a olive_n cut_v down_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n and_o the_o wild_a olive_n or_o gentile_a nation_n graff_v in_o upon_o their_o stock_n obstinacy_n in_o sin_n and_o unbelief_n be_v their_o cut_n off_o and_o faith_n be_v the_o gentile_n incision_n and_o graft_n in_o as_o the_o one_o be_v cut_v off_o by_o unbelief_n so_o the_o other_o be_v graff_v in_o by_o faith_n rom._n 11.20_o those_o few_o name_n in_o sardis_n that_o do_v hold_v fast_o the_o faith_n they_o be_v in_o a_o safe_a condition_n whilst_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o that_o church_n may_v perish_v utter_o the_o first_o be_v mark_v and_o write_v in_o the_o eternal_a book_n of_o life_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o lamb_n and_o therefore_o can_v perish_v but_o after_o god_n have_v finish_v his_o work_n at_o sardis_n thyatira_n rome_n corinth_n etc._n etc._n and_o call_v his_o elect_n out_o of_o they_o and_o secure_v their_o eternal_a happiness_n he_o can_v remove_v the_o current_n of_o his_o election_n to_o another_o people_n without_o any_o changeableness_n or_o shadow_n of_o change_n in_o he_o and_o make_v those_o very_a people_n in_o their_o posterity_n the_o very_a seat_n and_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n who_o be_v once_o his_o beulah_n darling_n and_o belove_a one_o three_o there_o be_v guild_v formal_a hipocritical_a grace_n and_o believer_n and_o such_o may_v not_o be_v only_o ready_a to_o die_v but_o dead_a twice_o dead_a dead_a at_o the_o root_n and_o fit_a for_o nothing_o but_o to_o be_v pluck_v up_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v very_o ordinary_a in_o scripture_n to_o say_v that_o such_o be_v fall_v away_o perish_v and_o lose_v from_o their_o faith_n which_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v all_o their_o grace_n be_v in_o the_o outward_a appearance_n only_o so_o demas_n simon_n magus_n judas_n ananias_n and_o saphira_n etc._n etc._n may_v be_v say_v to_o fall_v away_o from_o the_o faith_n because_o they_o have_v never_o the_o truth_n of_o real_a grace_n in_o they_o all_o be_v but_o seem_v formal_a hypocritical_a and_o at_o best_a but_o historical_a which_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v and_o for_o all_o this_o perish_v everlasting_o observe_v 2._o it_o be_v a_o great_a mercy_n for_o god_n to_o leave_v some_o remain_v of_o grace_n in_o a_o sinful_a church_n and_o people_n if_o god_n have_v not_o leave_v we_o a_o remnant_n we_o have_v be_v worse_o than_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n small_a spark_n be_v blow_v and_o cherish_v may_v become_v a_o flame_n so_o little_a grace_n though_o like_o a_o mustardseed_n may_v become_v a_o great_a tree_n if_o god_n shall_v deprive_v we_o of_o all_o the_o seed_n of_o grace_n there_o must_v needs_o follow_v a_o spiritual_a death_n unto_o our_o soul_n for_o when_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v go_v the_o soul_n will_v be_v soul-less_a and_o dead_a unto_o every_o good_a and_o spiritual_a work_n as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v life_n in_o we_o though_o it_o be_v infirm_a and_o weak_a yet_o there_o be_v some_o hope_n of_o recovery_n but_o be_v once_o dead_a there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o redemption_n from_o the_o grave_n so_o as_o long_o as_o we_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n though_o it_o work_v but_o faint_o and_o weak_o by_o reason_n of_o corruption_n in_o we_o and_o if_o it_o come_v but_o to_o the_o first_o step_n and_o low_a degree_n of_o spiritual_a life_n to_o wit_n to_o be_v sensible_a of_o its_o dead_a and_o carnal_a condition_n and_o to_o complain_v under_o it_o there_o be_v good_a hope_n of_o recovery_n unto_o such_o a_o soul_n and_o unto_o such_o i_o may_v bold_o say_v unto_o its_o comfort_n awake_v and_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v that_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v observe_v 3._o though_o our_o grace_n be_v but_o weak_a and_o low_a and_o ready_a to_o die_v yet_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o cherish_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v they_o until_o we_o bring_v forth_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n within_o ourselves_o unto_o perfection_n we_o be_v not_o to_o contemn_v the_o day_n of_o small_a thing_n for_o he_o that_o improve_v but_o one_o talon_n well_o shall_v be_v make_v ruler_n of_o many_o talent_n the_o beast_n in_o the_o prophet_n always_o go_v forward_o ezek._n 1.11_o but_o grub_n that_o be_v backward_o be_v reckon_v among_o unclean_a creature_n leu._n 11.10_o god_n have_v promise_v that_o he_o will_v not_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n nor_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n if_o we_o cherish_v the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o we_o though_o in_o never_o so_o small_a a_o measure_n god_n will_v add_v a_o great_a and_o full_a supply_n unto_o we_o god_n will_v add_v unto_o faith_n virtue_n unto_o virtue_n patience_n etc._n etc._n and_o according_a to_o that_o word_n in_o 2_o pet._n 1.5_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o shall_v all_o come_v hand_n in_o hand_n in_o consort_n as_o follow_v one_o the_o other_o as_o in_o a_o chorus_n or_o dance_n doubtless_o it_o will_v not_o be_v labour_n lose_v for_o sardis_n to_o strengthen_v and_o revive_v the_o remainder_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o expire_v within_o she_o though_o christ_n will_v be_v at_o hand_n to_o assist_v she_o by_o his_o grace_n and_o spirit_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o do_v it_o without_o her_o motion_n and_o improvement_n as_o it_o be_v once_o say_v by_o austin_n though_o god_n make_v we_o without_o we_o yet_o he_o will_v not_o save_v we_o without_o we_o grace_n work_v most_o kind_o when_o it_o meet_v with_o improve_n heart_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o say_v with_o young_a samuel_n thy_o servant_n hear_v lord_n speak_v though_o god_n have_v ascertain_v and_o decree_v the_o salvation_n of_o his_o elect_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o exclude_v the_o duty_n of_o creature_n and_o the_o work_n of_o second_o cause_n ezek._n 36.37_o jer._n 29.11_o 12._o work_v out_o your_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a we_o be_v to_o work_v for_o life_n as_o if_o life_n be_v to_o be_v get_v by_o work_v and_o doubtless_o the_o crown_n will_v be_v the_o more_o glorious_a where_o the_o great_a improument_n of_o grace_n be_v make_v the_o more_o grace_n the_o vessel_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o fill_v with_o here_o
some_o one_o may_v be_v more_o eminent_a than_o other_o yet_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o must_v be_v there_o as_o they_o will_v have_v faith_n they_o will_v have_v patience_n as_o patience_n love_n zeal_n humility_n self-denial_n and_o all_o other_o grace_n whatsoever_o be_v you_o holy_a for_o i_o be_o holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n 1_o pet._n 1.15.16_o and_o this_o must_v be_v also_o in_o the_o prevail_a degree_n thereof_o for_o his_o servant_n you_o be_v who_o you_o obey_v if_o sin_n be_v strong_a in_o thou_o then_o grace_n than_o you_o be_v sinner_n and_o wicked_a one_o but_o if_o grace_n prevail_v then_o be_v you_o gracious_a and_o perfect_a one_o three_o their_o aim_n and_o desire_n must_v be_v after_o perfection_n they_o will_v not_o be_v content_v with_o a_o little_a grace_n no_o less_o measure_n will_v serve_v their_o turn_n then_o what_o they_o enjoy_v after_o the_o resurrection_n i_o will_v by_o any_o mean_n attain_v to_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o dead_a say_v paul_n phil._n 3.11_o their_o aim_n be_v no_o low_o then_o unto_o the_o glorious_a and_o everlasting_a state_n and_o therefore_o do_v always_o press_v on_o unto_o perfection_n their_o desire_n be_v somewhat_o infinite_a as_o the_o glory_n they_o expect_v leave_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o heb._n 6.1_o and_o herein_o their_o aim_n and_o desire_n will_v appear_v more_o perfect_a in_o that_o they_o hate_v sin_n so_o perfect_o that_o they_o can_v be_v quiet_a until_o it_o be_v abolish_v and_o they_o free_v from_o it_o 1._o from_o the_o guilt_n thereof_o by_o justification_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n 2._o from_o the_o pierce_a power_n thereof_o by_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n 3._o from_o the_o very_a be_v of_o it_o in_o their_o glorification_n 4._o they_o be_v to_o aim_v at_o perfection_n in_o duration_n and_o perseverance_n as_o they_o be_v not_o to_o want_v any_o grace_n in_o the_o truth_n thereof_o or_o in_o the_o prevail_a degree_n thereof_o so_o be_v they_o not_o to_o want_v it_o in_o any_o part_n of_o their_o life_n for_o the_o crown_n be_v give_v to_o he_o that_o overcome_v 5._o true_a saint_n press_v forward_o to_o excel_v and_o precede_v other_o formal_a and_o outside_n christian_n in_o all_o duty_n of_o grace_n and_o perfection_n he_o that_o have_v any_o grace_n will_v always_o desire_v more_o a_o holy_a ambition_n in_o grace_n and_o goodness_n be_v very_o commendable_a god_n tell_v satan_n that_o there_o be_v none_o like_o job_n on_o the_o face_n of_o the_o earth_n job_n 1.8_o a_o perfect_a and_o upright_o man_n many_o desire_n to_o be_v before_o other_o in_o honour_n riches_n and_o power_n but_o few_o desire_n to_o excel_v in_o grace_n if_o we_o be_v true_a saint_n and_o aim_n at_o perfection_n we_o will_v not_o think_v it_o enough_o to_o be_v like_o other_o in_o grace_n but_o labour_v to_o go_v beyond_o other_o in_o all_o good_a and_o perfect_a work_n hence_o the_o quaker_n may_v see_v and_o be_v convince_v that_o we_o hold_v a_o perfection_n in_o this_o life_n though_o not_o a_o absolute_a legal_a one_o whereunto_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v as_o they_o but_o a_o evangelical_n one_o upon_o better_a ground_n and_o principle_n verse_n 3._o remember_v therefore_o how_o thou_o have_v receive_v and_o hear_v and_o hold_v fast_o and_o repent_v if_o therefore_o thou_o shall_v not_o watch_v i_o will_v come_v on_o thou_o as_o a_o thief_n and_o thou_o shall_v not_o know_v what_o hour_n i_o will_v come_v upon_o thou_o call_v to_o mind_n therefore_o the_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n which_o thou_o have_v former_o receive_v and_o hear_v and_o cleave_v fast_o thereunto_o and_o repent_v thy_o stray_v there_o from_o but_o if_o thou_o will_v not_o repent_v and_o be_v awaken_v out_o of_o this_o thy_o sleep_n of_o sin_n i_o shall_v come_v as_o a_o thief_n sudden_o unaware_o upon_o thou_o and_o seize_v on_o thou_o with_o unexpected_a judgement_n christ_n take_v up_o this_o metaphor_n and_o comparison_n of_o come_v as_o a_o thief_n for_o divers_a reason_n 1._o because_o a_o thief_n come_v speedy_o in_o a_o time_n when_o no_o man_n look_v for_o mat._n 24.43_o this_o set_v we_o on_o a_o diligent_a watchfulness_n if_o the_o good_a man_n of_o the_o house_n do_v know_v in_o what_o watch_n the_o thief_n will_v come_v he_o will_v watch_v and_o not_o suffer_v his_o house_n to_o be_v break_v through_o or_o his_o good_n steal_v 2._o as_o a_o thief_n come_v in_o the_o dark_a or_o dead_a of_o night_n so_o christ_n come_v when_o there_o be_v the_o great_a darkness_n and_o deep_a night_n of_o error_n on_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v in_o luke_n when_o he_o come_v shall_v he_o find_v faith_n on_o earth_n true_a faith_n will_v be_v such_o a_o rarity_n at_o christ_n come_n that_o it_o will_v be_v find_v in_o very_a few_o his_o elect_a only_o this_o quicken_v our_o faith_n and_o put_v we_o upon_o the_o trial_n of_o it_o 3._o a_o thief_n come_v prepare_v and_o resolve_v to_o overmaster_v all_o opposition_n so_o christ_n come_v in_o judgement_n be_v with_o power_n and_o to_o tread_v down_o and_o make_v all_o his_o enemy_n his_o footstool_n this_o support_n and_o comfort_v the_o distress_a afflict_a saint_n he_o former_o come_v as_o a_o lamb_n to_o suffer_v and_o he_o after_o come_v as_o a_o comforter_n to_o support_v all_o those_o for_o who_o he_o suffer_v and_o die_v and_o he_o have_v a_o other_o come_v his_o ordinary_a particular_a temporal_a judgement_n against_o his_o enemy_n which_o he_o frequent_o and_o very_o often_o send_v forth_o against_o they_o for_o their_o transgression_n and_o so_o he_o threaten_v to_o come_v here_o against_o sardis_n and_o his_o offend_a church_n and_o last_o he_o come_v in_o his_o last_o and_o ultimate_a judgement_n with_o great_a power_n and_o glory_n to_o overthrow_v and_o destroy_v all_o his_o antichristian_a foe_n and_o enemy_n whatsoever_o in_o rev._n 16.15_o it_o be_v say_v lo_o i_o come_v as_o a_o thief_n and_o present_o follow_v the_o great_a battle_n of_o armageddon_n and_o the_o utter_a destruction_n of_o babylon_n by_o the_o seven_o vial_n of_o god_n plague_n and_o judgement_n first_o from_o the_o former_a part_n of_o this_o verse_n observe_v observe_v that_o a_o call_n to_o mind_n of_o god_n former_a gracious_a deal_n with_o we_o be_v not_o only_o a_o great_a preservative_n against_o sin_n but_o a_o effectual_a mean_n for_o the_o recovery_n out_o of_o sin_n by_o a_o holy_a repentance_n look_v back_o unto_o the_o rock_n from_o whence_o thou_o be_v hew_v and_o review_v thy_o former_a unregenerate_a state_n and_o how_o you_o be_v therein_o alien_n stranger_n and_o enemy_n unto_o god_n by_o evil_a work_n and_o how_o it_o be_v far_o better_a with_o you_o now_o in_o your_o state_n of_o faith_n than_o it_o be_v then_o in_o sin_n and_o wrath_n for_o when_o you_o have_v sin_n present_v unto_o you_o in_o its_o enticement_n and_o provocation_n it_o will_v make_v gracious_a soul_n to_o reason_n thus_o with_o themselves_o be_v i_o not_o once_o a_o enemy_n unto_o god_n in_o my_o sinful_a unregenerate_a state_n and_o shall_v i_o again_o fall_v back_o into_o it_o as_o the_o sow_n into_o the_o mire_n god_n forbid_v how_o shall_v i_o do_v this_o great_a wickedness_n and_o sin_n against_o god_n will_v not_o then_o my_o latter_a estate_n be_v far_o worse_o than_o the_o first_o because_o god_n have_v be_v gracious_a unto_o my_o poor_a soul_n and_o deliver_v it_o as_o a_o bird_n out_o of_o the_o snare_n or_o snatch_v it_o as_o a_o brand_n out_o of_o the_o fire_n shall_v i_o again_o cast_v myself_o into_o the_o bond_n of_o satan_n and_o into_o the_o flame_n of_o hell_n by_o my_o turn_v this_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o sin_n and_o wantonness_n the_o lord_n forbid_v again_o for_o the_o recovery_n of_o backslidden_a soul_n that_o be_v almost_o spiritual_o dead_a and_o have_v almost_o nothing_o but_o the_o name_n and_o common_a reputation_n of_o live_v once_o it_o be_v most_o useful_a and_o advantageous_a to_o such_o poor_a soul_n for_o their_o recovery_n to_o recognize_v and_o look_v back_o on_o those_o good_a thing_n they_o former_o receive_v of_o god_n and_o hear_v concern_v he_o for_o first_o they_o hear_v that_o god_n be_v a_o gracious_a reconcile_a god_n and_o a_o merciful_a father_n in_o jesus_n christ_n ready_a to_o receive_v those_o of_o his_o choose_a one_o even_o in_o their_o blood_n and_o sin_n that_o do_v come_v to_o he_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v heal_v of_o their_o transgression_n and_o this_o they_o not_o only_o hear_v by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n but_o receive_v it_o also_o into_o their_o heart_n by_o faith_n and_o if_o god_n be_v so_o ready_a then_o to_o receive_v we_o into_o reconciliation_n with_o himself_o while_o enemy_n unto_o
that_o be_v make_v null_n god_n have_v institute_v a_o most_o gracious_a one_o wherein_o he_o have_v free_o give_v eternal_a life_n to_o all_o his_o choose_a once_o merit_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o his_o son_n and_o receive_v here_o in_o the_o first_o fruit_n thereof_o by_o faith_n and_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o spirit_n object_n but_o here_o come_v the_o sophistical_a jesuite_n and_o say_v it_o be_v true_a in_o rigour_n or_o justice_n we_o can_v merit_v at_o god_n hand_n we_o can_v give_v he_o quid_fw-la pro_fw-la quo_fw-la but_o in_o his_o favourable_a acceptance_n we_o may_v give_v he_o some_o satisfaction_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o imperfect_a proportion_n to_o divine_a justice_n and_o accept_v by_o god_n in_o his_o goodness_n and_o mercy_n as_o good_a payment_n from_o we_o and_o if_o you_o will_v take_v it_o rather_o in_o their_o own_o word_n who_o they_o design_v and_o say_v there_o be_v either_o 1._o sat_n be_v factio_fw-la justiciae_fw-la ex_fw-la rigore_fw-la justiciae_fw-la ad_fw-la absolutam_fw-la &_o perfectam_fw-la equalitatem_fw-la quantitatis_fw-la or_o 2._o acceptationis_fw-la facti_fw-la ex_fw-la gratia_fw-la donante_fw-la ad_fw-la imperfectam_fw-la aequalitatem_fw-la proportionis_fw-la &_o ex_fw-la condigno_fw-la the_o first_o satisfaction_n they_o deny_v but_o the_o latter_a they_o grant_v and_o assert_v that_o our_o own_o work_n though_o imperfect_a in_o themselves_o to_o answer_v strict_a justice_n yet_o be_v now_o dye_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n become_v currant_n for_o good_a payment_n and_o christ_n have_v merit_v to_o set_v a_o value_n upon_o they_o now_o they_o be_v able_a to_o stand_v by_o themselves_o and_o merit_n upon_o their_o own_o account_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n these_o be_v some_o of_o belarmines_n expression_n i_o answer_v this_o distinction_n of_o satisfaction_n in_o strict_a justice_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o favourable_a acceptance_n be_v but_o vain_a and_o sophistical_a unto_o this_o question_n i_o grant_v that_o our_o good_a work_n and_o holiness_n do_v out_o of_o faith_n be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o accept_v of_o he_o but_o where_o do_v it_o appear_v that_o god_n accept_v they_o as_o the_o least_o satisfaction_n to_o his_o justice_n in_o scripture_n god_n be_v not_o like_a man_n in_o humane_a satisfaction_n ready_a to_o take_v twenty_o pound_n for_o one_o hundred_o pound_n from_o his_o debtor_n where_o no_o more_o be_v to_o be_v have_v god_n will_v make_v no_o such_o complemental_a composition_n with_o his_o debtor_n divine_a justice_n will_v exact_v the_o utmost_a farthing_n either_o it_o will_v have_v full_a satisfaction_n of_o the_o sinner_n or_o of_o his_o surety_n either_o of_o ourselves_o and_o upon_o our_o own_o person_n or_o upon_o christ_n for_o we_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v vain_a to_o imagine_v such_o a_o facility_n or_o partiality_n in_o divine_a justice_n as_o to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o few_o poor_a unworthy_a rag_n of_o our_o own_o imperfect_a righteousness_n no_o satisfaction_n will_v suit_v and_o comport_v with_o divine_a justice_n but_o such_o as_o be_v by_o the_o same_o justice_n repute_v sufficient_a such_o as_o be_v christ_n satisfaction_n and_o they_o only_o can_v do_v the_o work_n and_o therefore_o those_o pure_a undefiled_a name_n at_o sardis_n be_v account_v worthy_a to_o walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a not_o out_o of_o their_o own_o merit_n or_o the_o least_o satisfaction_n that_o they_o can_v render_v unto_o divine_a justice_n but_o out_o of_o god_n mere_a gracious_a acceptation_n and_o free_a love_n towards_o they_o they_o be_v worthy_a not_o out_o of_o merit_n and_o justice_n but_o out_o of_o fitness_n aptness_n and_o excellency_n in_o comparison_n of_o other_o and_o so_o god_n accept_v they_o as_o gracious_a lovely_a and_o worthy_a to_o be_v in_o his_o presence_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o verse_n 5._o he_o that_o overcome_v the_o same_o shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a raiment_n and_o i_o will_v not_o blot_v his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n to_o the_o overcome_a saint_n in_o sardis_n that_o shall_v escape_v the_o pollution_n of_o the_o time_n there_o be_v promise_v a_o glorious_a white_a vestment_n to_o represent_v the_o innocency_n of_o their_o body_n and_o the_o majesty_n of_o the_o glory_n they_o shall_v enjoy_v when_o christ_n shall_v appear_v with_o who_o they_o shall_v walk_v in_o white_a as_o in_o the_o former_a verse_n more_o full_o hence_o note_v observe_v the_o future_a bless_a state_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v not_o only_o a_o sinless_a innocent_a one_o but_o a_o most_o glorious_a one_o also_o this_o be_v manifest_v by_o their_o solemn_a investiture_n into_o that_o state_n be_v clothe_v in_o white_a raiment_n which_o do_v typify_v and_o represent_v as_o the_o priest_n vesture_n of_o old_a both_o innocency_n and_o majesty_n and_o there_o be_v all_o reason_n for_o it_o for_o we_o be_v then_o make_v both_o king_n and_o priest_n unto_o our_o god_n rev._n 5.10_o and_o we_o shall_v reign_v on_o earth_n and_o i_o will_v not_o blot_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n this_o be_v a_o other_o addition_n or_o further_a degree_n of_o blessedness_n to_o the_o conquer_a saint_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v take_v up_o this_o expression_n of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o write_v in_o this_o book_n and_o blot_v out_o of_o it_o from_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n metaphorical_o borrow_v from_o their_o practice_n and_o be_v very_o often_o use_v in_o the_o scripture_n as_o in_o that_o prayer_n of_o moses_n exod._n 32.32_o i_o pray_v thou_o raze_v i_o out_o of_o the_o book_n which_o thou_o have_v write_v and_o according_a to_o that_o imprecation_n of_o david_n psalm_n 69.28_o let_v they_o be_v put_v out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o rev._n 22._o â—9_n if_o any_o man_n shall_v diminish_v of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o book_n of_o this_o prophecy_n god_n shall_v take_v away_o his_o part_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n add_v to_o these_o psal_n 139.16_o dan._n 12.12_o rev._n 20.12_o mal._n 3.15_o rev._n 13.8_o &_o 17.8_o all_o which_o do_v signify_v that_o god_n have_v as_o it_o be_v a_o book_n of_o remembrance_n according_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o man_n wherein_o he_o write_v and_o blot_v out_o that_o the_o thing_n therein_o signify_v may_v be_v make_v plain_a and_o obvious_a to_o our_o understanding_n but_o by_o the_o way_n we_o must_v not_o be_v so_o gross_a to_o imagine_v that_o god_n have_v a_o book_n for_o the_o help_n of_o his_o memory_n or_o that_o he_o write_v or_o blot_v out_o as_o man_n usual_o do_v god_n be_v no_o such_o corporeal_a be_v to_o use_v such_o help_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v metaphorical_o as_o abovesaid_a and_o per_fw-la anthropopathean_a according_a to_o his_o condescension_n to_o the_o capacity_n of_o man_n as_o when_o eye_n face_n hear_v hand_n etc._n etc._n be_v ascribe_v unto_o god_n he_o need_v not_o book_n of_o writing_n for_o help_v of_o his_o knowledge_n or_o memory_n for_o all_o thing_n past_a present_a and_o to_o come_v be_v in_o his_o fight_n but_o to_o understand_v the_o term_n a_o little_a more_o distinct_o know_v god_n have_v a_o double_a book_n of_o life_n wherein_o he_o be_v say_v to_o write_v and_o blot_v out_o the_o one_o be_v that_o of_o his_o decree_n of_o his_o election_n unto_o life_n the_o other_o be_v the_o book_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o those_o decree_n in_o the_o first_o book_n person_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v write_v in_o it_o two_o way_n either_o real_o or_o seem_o so_o unto_o other_o for_o the_o first_o they_o can_v never_o be_v expunge_v or_o blot_v out_o of_o that_o book_n unless_o divine_a omniscience_n and_o omnipotency_n shall_v fail_v that_o be_v engage_v for_o their_o support_n and_o perseverance_n which_o more_o full_o hereafter_o shall_v be_v declare_v but_o the_o second_o sort_n that_o be_v but_o seem_o write_v in_o this_o book_n of_o life_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o other_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v blot_v out_o and_o castaways_a for_o in_o truth_n they_o be_v never_o real_o write_v in_o it_o so_o also_o in_o the_o other_o book_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o god_n decree_n person_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v write_v in_o that_o also_o two_o way_n first_o real_o and_o in_o truth_n when_o god_n execute_v his_o decree_n of_o election_n by_o bring_v and_o receive_v his_o elect_a one_o into_o the_o gospel_n covenant_n by_o believe_v and_o so_o enroll_v they_o in_o the_o number_n of_o his_o faithful_a one_o church_n and_o family_n second_o other_o also_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v write_v in_o this_o book_n which_o be_v but_o only_o seem_v and_o tiâ—ulary_a christian_n in_o respect_n they_o have_v take_v up_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o be_v add_v
to_o the_o church_n visible_a as_o member_n thereof_o and_o be_v so_o just_o repute_v by_o other_o because_o they_o have_v submit_v to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v sufficient_a nothing_o appear_v to_o the_o contrary_a to_o denominate_v they_o saint_n call_v elect_v and_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n now_o when_o god_n be_v say_v to_o blot_v out_o name_n name_n be_v put_v for_o person_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n it_o only_o signify_v that_o god_n will_v manifest_o declare_v and_o make_v it_o know_v both_o to_o the_o party_n themselves_o and_o other_o that_o they_o never_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o in_o the_o state_n of_o election_n and_o salvation_n nor_o never_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n i_o will_v not_o blot_v his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n under_o this_o negative_a promise_n unto_o the_o conquer_a saint_n be_v contain_v a_o strong_a affirmation_n of_o the_o continuance_n of_o the_o contrary_a blessing_n christ_n will_v not_o only_o not_o blot_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n that_o be_v confirm_v and_o continue_v his_o undoubted_a right_n and_o title_n unto_o eternal_a life_n but_o he_o will_v also_o manifest_o declare_v and_o make_v know_v unto_o other_o his_o lawful_a title_n and_o interest_n according_a as_o he_o have_v ordain_v he_o thereunto_o in_o his_o book_n of_o life_n from_o all_o eternity_n and_o so_o the_o subsequent_a word_n do_v intimate_v i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n often_o in_o scripture_n thing_n be_v then_o say_v to_o be_v do_v when_o they_o be_v only_o manifest_v to_o be_v do_v according_a to_o that_o say_n res_fw-la tum_fw-la demum_fw-la dicuntur_fw-la fieri_fw-la cum_fw-la incipiantur_fw-la manifestari_fw-la reg._n petrum_fw-la as_o to_o instance_n by_o heb._n 1.5_o thou_o be_v my_o son_n this_o day_n have_v i_o beget_v thou_o the_o spirit_n in_o that_o scripture_n not_o intend_v that_o the_o son_n be_v not_o beget_v of_o the_o father_n before_o that_o day_n when_o that_o word_n be_v utter_v but_o that_o on_o that_o day_n he_o be_v more_o eminent_o declare_v and_o manifest_v to_o be_v the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n then_o former_o so_o that_o when_o it_o be_v say_v in_o scripture_n that_o god_n will_v blot_v their_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n it_o only_o import_v that_o god_n will_v discover_v to_o themselves_o and_o other_o that_o their_o name_n be_v never_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n nor_o have_v any_o right_a or_o interest_n at_o all_o in_o election_n or_o salvation_n far_o than_o in_o the_o outward_a appearance_n from_o the_o word_n note_v observe_v that_o the_o eternal_a state_n of_o god_n choose_a one_o be_v seal_v and_o secure_v by_o god_n from_o everlasting_a their_o name_n be_v write_v in_o the_o eternal_a book_n of_o god_n decree_n of_o life_n and_o he_o will_v not_o blot_v they_o out_o for_o be_v once_o enroll_v in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n election_n and_o among_o the_o catalogue_n of_o his_o saint_n in_o the_o church_n invisible_a they_o can_v never_o be_v raze_v out_o for_o the_o foundation_n of_o god_n continue_v sure_a rom._n 9.11_o and_o have_v a_o twofold_a seal_n 2_o tim._n 2.19_o first_o god_n knowledge_n whereby_o he_o know_v they_o that_o be_v he_o second_o his_o spirit_n of_o regeneration_n which_o seal_v they_o unto_o eternal_a life_n now_o if_o any_o thing_n will_v blot_v out_o those_o that_o be_v thus_o enroll_v or_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n it_o must_v be_v their_o sin_n and_o pollution_n that_o will_v do_v it_o but_o the_o sin_n of_o god_n choose_a one_o can_v move_v the_o lord_n to_o raze_v we_o out_o of_o his_o book_n of_o life_n for_o than_o the_o foresight_n and_o knowledge_n of_o our_o sin_n in_o god_n eternal_a counsel_n will_v much_o more_o have_v hinder_v he_o from_o choose_v and_o enrol_v we_o in_o the_o book_n of_o his_o election_n see_v every_o one_o know_v that_o a_o less_o cause_n will_v hinder_v the_o choice_n of_o any_o then_o move_v they_o to_o reject_v the_o person_n once_o choose_v nay_o rather_o because_o the_o lord_n have_v choose_v we_o therefore_o he_o will_v give_v we_o his_o holy_a spirit_n whereby_o he_o will_v preserve_v we_o though_o not_o altogether_o from_o fall_v into_o sin_n yet_o from_o final_o lie_v dormant_a and_o impenitent_a therein_o and_o as_o he_o have_v free_o choose_v we_o to_o eternal_a life_n without_o any_o respect_n to_o our_o own_o worthiness_n so_o also_o he_o will_v free_o execute_v this_o decree_n by_o give_v we_o all_o the_o good_a mean_n conduce_v to_o that_o end_n object_n but_o some_o may_v say_v though_o the_o conquer_a saint_n be_v secure_a and_o their_o name_n shall_v not_o be_v blot_v out_o of_o this_o book_n yet_o this_o do_v intimate_v that_o other_o who_o name_n be_v write_v therein_o for_o their_o sinful_a pollution_n and_o iniquity_n unrepented_a of_o may_v be_v blot_v out_o according_a to_o that_o of_o exod._n 32.33_o whosoever_o have_v sin_v against_o i_o say_v god_n he_o will_v i_o blot_v out_o of_o my_o book_n and_o as_o david_n pray_v psal_n 69.28_o let_v they_o be_v put_v out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o live_n and_o not_o be_v write_v with_o the_o righteous_a answ_n first_o this_o threaten_a be_v not_o against_o the_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n or_o his_o church_n who_o be_v enroll_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o those_o that_o be_v the_o member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n only_o and_o be_v only_a seem_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n member_n in_o show_n and_o not_o in_o truth_n branch_n in_o the_o vine_n by_o profession_n but_o not_o in_o practice_n and_o life_n of_o the_o lord_n family_n and_o in_o the_o number_n of_o his_o servant_n in_o their_o own_o and_o other_o opinion_n but_o not_o real_o and_o in_o truth_n according_a to_o god_n estimation_n second_o whereas_o god_n say_v he_o will_v blot_v such_o out_o of_o his_o book_n we_o be_v not_o to_o understand_v thereby_o that_o he_o will_v blot_v they_o out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o his_o election_n unto_o life_n wherein_o they_o be_v never_o write_v or_o that_o he_o will_v reject_v they_o who_o he_o have_v choose_v but_o that_o he_o will_v raze_v they_o out_o of_o the_o other_o book_n of_o life_n the_o book_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o his_o decree_n to_o wit_n the_o book_n and_o roll_n â—f_o his_o visible_a church_n and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v manifest_o declare_v that_o they_o who_o in_o their_o own_o opinion_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o outward_a profession_n in_o the_o opinion_n of_o other_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v write_v in_o both_o book_n or_o both_o part_n of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n of_o that_o of_o god_n decree_n which_o only_o relate_v to_o the_o invisible_a member_n and_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o also_o of_o that_o other_o book_n or_o roll_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n yet_o be_v not_o in_o truth_n ever_o enroll_v in_o either_o far_o than_o in_o outward_a profession_n and_o appearance_n only_o and_o last_o whereas_o david_n pray_v that_o the_o obstinate_a enemy_n of_o god_n and_o himself_o may_v be_v put_v out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o live_n and_o not_o be_v write_v with_o the_o righteous_a be_v no_o more_o but_o as_o if_o david_n have_v say_v do_v not_o o_o lord_n write_v they_o down_o or_o reckon_v they_o in_o the_o number_n of_o thy_o faithful_a one_o or_o if_o they_o come_v to_o be_v number_v among_o thy_o church_n and_o people_n and_o to_o be_v account_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o live_n in_o respect_n of_o their_o outward_a profession_n and_o external_a walk_v with_o the_o people_n of_o god_n yet_o discover_v such_o and_o display_v they_o that_o it_o may_v manifest_o appear_v that_o they_o be_v never_o true_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o live_n nor_o be_v to_o be_v account_v among_o the_o righteous_a that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v put_v out_o of_o the_o company_n of_o thy_o church_n and_o child_n that_o all_o may_v know_v that_o they_o be_v but_o hypocrite_n for_o in_o regard_n that_o god_n decree_n of_o election_n be_v unsearchable_a to_o man_n those_o be_v say_v to_o be_v elect_v and_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n who_o be_v outward_o call_v and_o add_v to_o the_o visible_a church_n profess_v themselves_o member_n thereof_o which_o be_v the_o outward_a but_o not_o the_o infallible_a sign_n of_o god_n election_n because_o they_o be_v common_a both_o to_o hypocrite_n and_o sound_a believer_n and_o so_o likewise_o god_n be_v say_v to_o blot_v person_n out_o of_o this_o book_n who_o sin_n and_o hypocrisy_n be_v discover_v and_o so_o thrust_v out_o of_o the_o company_n of_o
open_v and_o shut_v there_o be_v such_o a_o excellent_a image_n erect_v like_o the_o first_o part_n of_o that_o in_o dan._n 2.32_o who_o head_n be_v of_o fine_a gold_n his_o breast_n and_o arm_n of_o silver_n it_o be_v a_o notable_a and_o noble_a say_n of_o constantine_n the_o emperor_n unto_o the_o pastor_n and_o bishop_n of_o his_o time_n vos_fw-fr est_fw-fr be_v in_o ecclesia_fw-la sed_fw-la ego_fw-la extra_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la episcopus_fw-la though_o he_o be_v the_o great_a champion_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o christian_n temporal_a saviour_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o meddle_v with_o open_v or_o shut_v in_o christ_n church_n nor_o extort_v the_o key_n of_o david_n or_o christ_n out_o of_o their_o hand_n to_o who_o christ_n leave_v it_o for_o what_o be_v do_v by_o they_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n as_o by_o his_o delegated_a power_n what_o they_o bind_v in_o earth_n be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o what_o they_o lose_v on_o earth_n be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n christ_n will_v not_o suffer_v any_o to_o wield_v his_o key_n but_o those_o to_o who_o hand_n he_o have_v commit_v they_o according_a to_o his_o own_o method_n and_o way_n of_o direction_n who_o use_v they_o contrary_a to_o this_o they_o will_v find_v they_o scorpion_n in_o their_o hand_n ready_a to_o bite_v and_o destroy_v they_o instead_o of_o heal_v and_o cure_v remember_v the_o example_n of_o uzziah_n and_o tremble_v 2_o chron._n 26.16_o be_v it_o not_o the_o downfall_n to_o popery_n when_o spiritual_a man_n turn_v layick_n and_o bishop_n become_v prince_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n secular_a prince_n handle_v the_o spiritual_a key_n open_v and_o shut_v as_o they_o please_v make_v law_n edict_n and_o rule_n unto_o the_o church_n which_o be_v christ_n and_o his_o church_n prerogative_n only_o what_o undo_v our_o late_a episcopal_a hierarchy_n in_o england_n but_o mix_v sacred_a thing_n with_o profane_a make_v christ_n and_o caesar_n law_n all_o one_o the_o bishop_n he_o be_v make_v a_o temporal_a lord_n to_o act_v in_o the_o parliamentary_a and_o civil_a affair_n of_o the_o nation_n and_o in_o requital_n hereof_o the_o supreme_a magistrate_n he_o be_v make_v supreme_a head_n of_o the_o church_n to_o enact_v what_o law_n he_o please_v as_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o open_v and_o shut_v to_o who_o he_o will_v by_o his_o high_a court_n of_o delegate_n and_o high_a commission_n etc._n etc._n such_o a_o church_n such_o a_o head_n a_o civil_a church_n a_o civil_a head_n such_o a_o church_n such_o law_n such_o officer_n such_o key_n such_o pow-ar_a all_o prudential_o and_o all_o of_o the_o present_a world_n wisdom_n and_o fabricate_a and_o therefore_o not_o strange_a that_o the_o fabric_n last_v no_o long_o but_o fall_v witâ—in_o few_o age_n after_o the_o first_o structure_n thereof_o and_o be_v it_o not_o now_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o church_n among_o we_o may_v be_v lull_v asleep_o as_o in_o the_o lap_n of_o constantine_n by_o overmuch_o indulgence_n and_o temporal_a honour_n cast_v upon_o she_o and_o her_o minister_n though_o i_o be_o not_o a_o enemy_n to_o their_o just_a maintenance_n and_o temporal_a comfort_n yet_o i_o be_o jealous_a of_o they_o that_o all_o be_v not_o lambskin_n that_o appear_v so_o about_o they_o but_o that_o somewhat_o if_o not_o too_o much_o of_o the_o fox_n tail_n lie_v undiscovered_a within_o what_o mean_v else_o the_o bleat_n of_o the_o cattle_n i_o mean_v their_o press_v after_o preferment_n extraneous_a as_o to_o their_o church_n as_o head_n of_o university_n state-chaplain_n great_a parsonage_n commissioner_n and_o tryer_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o want_n of_o christ_n own_o key_n do_v often_o open_v to_o person_n against_o who_o christ_n have_v shut_v and_o shut_v against_o some_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v open_v so_o fallible_a be_v man_n that_o open_v with_o the_o wooden_a key_n of_o their_o own_o politic_n the_o lord_n deliver_v our_o sovereign_a magistrate_n from_o the_o snare_n of_o these_o spiritual_a machiavilian_o or_o machiavilian_a doctor_n that_o do_v teach_v the_o magistrate_n to_o lay_v his_o politic_n as_o rule_n to_o christ_n church_n that_o will_v have_v he_o open_a where_o christ_n shut_v and_o shut_v where_o christ_n open_v it_o be_v equal_o dangerous_a unto_o both_o magistrate_n and_o minister_n to_o move_v or_o act_v out_o of_o their_o own_o proper_a sphere_n but_o act_v in_o their_o own_o orb_n the_o one_o in_o his_o civil_a government_n and_o state_n the_o other_o in_o his_o spiritual_a policy_n and_o church_n so_o both_o become_v gracious_a and_o honourable_a in_o their_o respective_a government_n and_o dominion_n quest._n but_o what_o shall_v not_o christian_n magistrate_n do_v nothing_o in_o the_o church_n or_o execute_v no_o part_n of_o their_o authority_n therein_o which_o god_n have_v give_v they_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n i_o answer_v first_o the_o magistrate_n may_v exercise_v his_o authority_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n in_o several_a respect_n first_o in_o protect_v encourage_v and_o countenance_v the_o church_n in_o the_o service_n of_o christ_n and_o defend_v their_o liberty_n therein_o and_o so_o become_v nurse_n father_n unto_o the_o church_n second_o as_o christ_n do_v approve_v and_o command_v obedience_n from_o all_o to_o magistrate_n and_o their_o law_n as_o for_o god_n sake_n rom._n 13._o so_o magistrate_n shall_v approve_v and_o command_v christ_n law_n and_o government_n to_o be_v observe_v of_o all_o within_o their_o respective_a boundary_n and_o jurisdiction_n three_o if_o any_o prove_v turbulent_a seditious_a or_o factious_a in_o the_o church_n under_o pretence_n of_o liberty_n and_o so_o become_v a_o peace-breaker_n in_o the_o commonweal_n the_o magistrate_n may_v restrain_v he_o by_o his_o civil_a power_n four_o if_o any_o church_n member_n become_v a_o blasphemer_n a_o idolater_n a_o open_a delinquent_n against_o the_o first_o table_n or_o transgressor_n of_o the_o second_o the_o magistrate_n may_v chastise_v he_o for_o it_o over_z and_o above_o the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n not_o as_o require_v thereunto_o by_o the_o church_n but_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o own_o civil_a law_n that_o equal_o reach_v all_o person_n that_o transgress_v they_o whether_o ecclesiastiques_n or_o other_o 2._o but_o second_o in_o the_o negative_a i_o answer_v that_o magistrate_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v nor_o be_v competent_a judge_n as_o magistrate_n of_o controversal_a point_n opinion_n doctrine_n or_o of_o thing_n mere_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n christ_n never_o endue_v the_o magistrate_n with_o such_o a_o power_n therefore_o the_o argument_n be_v very_o prevalent_a a_o negative_a that_o they_o have_v no_o such_o power_n the_o church_n alone_o under_o christ_n be_v endue_v with_o that_o power_n of_o try_v doctrine_n suppress_v error_n in_o opinion_n and_o judgement_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n now_o to_o who_o this_o rule_n be_v give_v the_o foresay_a power_n be_v give_v but_o the_o rule_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o church_n only_o and_o not_o to_o magistrate_n mat._n 18._o therefore_o the_o say_a power_n of_o try_v doctrine_n and_o suppress_v error_n be_v commit_v only_o to_o the_o church_n and_o not_o to_o magistrate_n object_n but_o may_v not_o magistrate_n suppress_v error_n and_o use_v their_o authority_n to_o that_o end_n when_o they_o be_v thereunto_o well_o advise_v by_o a_o learned_a assembly_n of_o divine_n or_o able_a minister_n of_o the_o church_n answ_n the_o minister_n of_o christ_n if_o they_o be_v such_o adviser_n herein_o do_v first_o betray_v their_o trust_n and_o call_n in_o their_o master_n service_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o magistrate_n plain_o acknowledge_v that_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n have_v not_o provide_v a_o armoury_n sufficient_a in_o his_o house_n and_o kingdom_n to_o overthrow_v error_n as_o well_o as_o mean_n for_o their_o discovery_n be_v not_o this_o to_o run_v for_o carnal_a weapon_n whilst_o they_o lie_v by_o those_o make_v by_o god_n spiritual_a one_o and_o mighty_a through_o god_n to_o pull_v down_o power_n principality_n and_o all_o the_o work_n of_o darkness_n second_o if_o magistrate_n act_n thus_o upon_o the_o advice_n of_o other_o they_o must_v not_o only_o see_v with_o other_o man_n eye_n and_o act_n upon_o a_o implicit_a faith_n but_o do_v also_o hereby_o become_v but_o the_o executioner_n of_o their_o assembly_n decree_n what_o more_o do_v the_o popish_a prince_n when_o they_o execute_v the_o edict_n of_o the_o romish_a conclave_n and_o what_o otherwise_o do_v pilate_n when_o he_o become_v the_o executioner_n of_o the_o priest_n sentence_n upon_o christ_n in_o crucify_a he_o a_o seamark_n to_o all_o to_o take_v notice_n on_o this_o account_n three_o magistrate_n as_o magistrate_n be_v not_o to_o suppress_v error_n because_o christ_n have_v other_o law_n ordinance_n and_o way_n to_o suppress_v they_o
receive_v the_o truth_n reveal_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v this_o double_a door_n open_v a_o free_a power_n give_v she_o by_o christ_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o ready_a and_o willing_a heart_n to_o receive_v it_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o take_v away_o from_o she_o for_o it_o be_v the_o great_a key-bearer_n of_o david_n himself_o that_o have_v open_v it_o and_o maugre_o all_o the_o malice_n of_o devil_n and_o wicked_a man_n in_o their_o hellish_a design_n it_o can_v never_o be_v obscure_v and_o shut_v up_o more_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v christ_n alone_a that_o vouchsafe_v and_o give_v fair_a opportunity_n and_o access_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o open_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o hearer_n for_o a_o kindly_a entertainment_n of_o it_o also_o it_o be_v not_o the_o force_n of_o man_n wit_n conceit_n or_o eloquence_n of_o word_n will_v open_v this_o door_n either_o to_o one self_o or_o other_o christ_n must_v first_o open_v and_o give_v a_o door_n of_o utterance_n or_o else_o the_o tongue_n will_v be_v as_o dumb_a as_o zachariah_n before_o john_n be_v bear_v unto_o all_o gospel_n mystery_n next_o the_o hearer_n will_v be_v as_o deaf_a unto_o the_o sound_n thereof_o as_o dumb_a unto_o the_o utterance_n of_o it_o before_o the_o spirit_n come_v and_o work_v kind_o on_o their_o heart_n to_o a_o fruitful_a reception_n thereof_o how_o possible_o else_o can_v twelve_o plain_a tradesman_n mechanic_n fisherman_n etc._n etc._n go_v on_o with_o that_o boldness_n in_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o have_v that_o door_n of_o utterance_n and_o entertainment_n almost_o in_o the_o whole_a world_n among_o inveterate_a and_o malicious_a enemy_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n if_o the_o great_a key-bearer_n of_o david_n have_v not_o touch_v their_o tongue_n and_o unshut_a their_o mouth_n and_o tâ—â—_n heart_n of_o their_o hearer_n both_o at_o once_o the_o one_o with_o a_o power_n of_o speak_v the_o other_o with_o a_o power_n and_o willingness_n of_o hear_v receive_v and_o treasure_v up_o what_o they_o have_v hear_v and_o learn_v what_o a_o large_a door_n have_v christ_n lay_v open_a since_o the_o first_o day_n of_o reformation_n to_o this_o present_a day_n this_o can_v never_o be_v attain_v unto_o by_o the_o power_n of_o man_n but_o by_o christ_n who_o by_o weak_a and_o despicable_a thing_n and_o person_n have_v confound_v the_o wise_a and_o mighty_a of_o the_o antichristian_a world_n as_o luther_n be_v wont_a to_o say_v consider_v with_o what_o weapon_n i_o have_v overcome_v their_o error_n i_o have_v never_o touch_v they_o with_o a_o finger_n but_o christ_n have_v destroy_v they_o all_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mouth_n i._n e._n the_o word_n of_o his_o gospel_n what_o do_n what_o imprisoning_n what_o fining_n what_o punishment_n what_o torture_n what_o punishment_n what_o death_n do_v the_o old_a popish_a doctor_n and_o clergy_n and_o of_o late_a the_o prelatical_a bishop_n raise_v and_o invent_v to_o shut_v up_o this_o door_n that_o christ_n have_v open_v to_o his_o faithful_a witness_n in_o this_o land_n and_o yet_o what_o do_v they_o prevail_v and_o get_v thereby_o but_o by_o dash_v themselves_o against_o the_o corner_n stone_n and_o by_o endeavour_v to_o suffocate_v and_o shut_v up_o the_o true_a light_n become_v themselves_o the_o child_n of_o darkness_n and_o break_v themselves_o to_o piece_n against_o the_o corner_n stone_n and_o become_v the_o scorn_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o if_o such_o endeavour_n be_v again_o set_v on_o foot_n against_o christ_n faithful_a witness_n to_o shut_v that_o door_n which_o christ_n have_v lay_v open_a to_o they_o let_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o time_n pass_v towards_o the_o prelatical_a person_n and_o other_o of_o the_o same_o stamp_n be_v a_o curb_n unto_o such_o undertaker_n and_o a_o encouragement_n to_o all_o his_o faithful_a one_o that_o they_o need_v not_o fear_v the_o reproach_n or_o act_n of_o man_n against_o they_o for_o it_o be_v christ_n that_o have_v open_v a_o door_n unto_o they_o and_o no_o man_n shall_v shut_v it_o for_o thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n these_o word_n be_v no_o diminution_n to_o the_o praise_n of_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n for_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n for_o the_o sense_n run_v thus_o because_o though_o thy_o strength_n be_v but_o small_a and_o thy_o gift_n be_v but_o low_a in_o respect_n of_o other_o yet_o thou_o have_v well_o improve_v those_o which_o thou_o have_v and_o have_v maintain_v my_o truth_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n this_o manner_n of_o speak_v be_v usual_a among_o the_o hebrew_n who_o put_v the_o couple_a particle_n and_o for_o the_o disjunctive_a though_o or_o yet_o this_o be_v call_v little_a strength_n not_o in_o opposition_n of_o much_o corruption_n that_o reign_v in_o philadelphia_n as_o sardis_n that_o have_v but_o a_o few_o name_n alive_a because_o the_o great_a part_n be_v dead_a but_o this_o be_v call_v little_a strength_n be_v apparent_o no_o great_a strength_n comparative_o to_o what_o other_o have_v and_o that_o god_n have_v give_v she_o for_o her_o talon_n which_o she_o improve_n and_o put_v to_o profitable_a use_n according_a to_o the_o parable_n matth._n 25._o and_o therefore_o of_o all_o the_o seven_o church_n this_o be_v most_o commend_v of_o god_n and_o in_o nothing_o reprove_v by_o he_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o a_o small_a talon_n well_o improve_v be_v follow_v both_o by_o a_o benediction_n and_o a_o commendation_n from_o god_n himself_o the_o parable_n in_o match_n 25._o confirm_v this_o where_o he_o that_o increase_v his_o talon_n be_v make_v owner_n of_o more_o and_o governor_n of_o many_o city_n this_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n bear_v the_o name_n from_o all_o her_o sister_n for_o her_o proficiency_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n though_o her_o strength_n be_v not_o so_o great_a nor_o her_o profession_n and_o ability_n seem_v so_o high_a as_o the_o rest_n yet_o she_o be_v more_o fruitful_a than_o the_o rest_n and_o therefore_o she_o surpass_v they_o all_o and_o have_v the_o great_a portion_n and_o blessing_n give_v she_o then_o to_o any_o other_o and_o so_o become_v the_o only_a daughter_n of_o her_o mother_n the_o peerless_a sister_n of_o the_o seven_o have_v not_o of_o late_a many_o low_a despicable_a church_n and_o person_n for_o well_o improve_n their_o small_a talent_n become_v fragrant_a garden_n and_o eminent_a workman_n in_o god_n vineyard_n while_o other_o of_o high_a profession_n part_n and_o ability_n for_o want_v of_o husband_v their_o talent_n both_o lose_v their_o talent_n and_o become_v barren_a desert_n and_o like_o unsavoury_a salt_n fit_a only_a to_o be_v cast_v into_o the_o dunghill_n though_o my_o year_n be_v but_o few_o and_o my_o experience_n small_a yet_o for_o want_v of_o this_o improvement_n i_o have_v know_v great_a doctor_n to_o become_v wittol_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o christ_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n child_n and_o babe_n by_o better_v of_o their_o talent_n though_o but_o of_o small_a and_o of_o a_o little_a strength_n and_o as_o but_o a_o mustardseed_n in_o the_o beginning_n yet_o to_o become_v sound_a doctor_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o at_o last_o to_o grow_v up_o as_o great_a tree_n in_o the_o vineyard_n of_o god_n whereunto_o the_o bird_n of_o the_o air_n may_v fly_v for_o shelter_n verse_n 9_o behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n which_o call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o do_v lie_v behold_v i_o say_v i_o will_v make_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n before_o thy_o foot_n and_o they_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o by_o this_o double_a remarkable_a asterisme_n or_o twice_o repeat_v note_n of_o attention_n behold_v in_o one_o verse_n christ_n be_v about_o to_o bring_v to_o pass_v some_o notable_a work_n in_o his_o church_n and_o what_o be_v it_o but_o to_o make_v the_o perverse_a jew_n that_o trouble_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n in_o blaspheme_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n and_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v affliction_n and_o tribulation_n on_o the_o true_a professor_n thereof_o but_o to_o make_v they_o stoop_v to_o the_o sceptre_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o make_v they_o worship_v he_o before_o their_o foot_n to_o make_v they_o one_o flock_n and_o one_o church_n and_o to_o make_v they_o know_v that_o this_o christ_n and_o this_o church_n who_o they_o have_v vilify_v blaspheme_v and_o persecute_v to_o be_v the_o only_a special_a object_n of_o god_n law_n and_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n to_o salvation_n and_o eternal_a life_n but_o to_o explicate_v the_o word_n more_o full_o behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o of_o
the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n the_o word_n in_o the_o greek_a copy_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d beza_n version_n read_v they_o prebebo_fw-la eos_fw-la qui_fw-la sunt_fw-la ex_fw-la synaga_fw-la satana_n the_o verb_n be_v in_o the_o present_a tense_n i_o give_v and_o not_o in_o the_o future_a and_o what_o be_v give_v those_o that_o call_v themselves_o jew_n i_o give_v or_o i_o yield_v be_v put_v in_o the_o present_a tense_n either_o for_o the_o more_o certain_a denotation_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o good_a promise_v to_o come_v in_o the_o future_a for_o so_o the_o latter_a clause_n do_v intimate_v i_o will_v make_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n etc._n etc._n or_o else_o second_o it_o denote_v unto_o we_o that_o god_n do_v at_o that_o present_a time_n make_v some_o of_o the_o jew_n to_o submit_v themselves_o unto_o his_o church_n as_o it_o be_v a_o taste_n and_o first_o fruit_n or_o as_o a_o pawn_n and_o earnest_n of_o their_o more_o full_a general_a and_o universal_a call_n and_o subjection_n to_o the_o sceptre_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o shall_v ensue_v in_o future_a age_n which_o the_o latter_a clause_n of_o this_o verse_n be_v full_a unto_o whereof_z more_o hereafter_o i_o former_o she_o wed_v on_o cap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 9_o how_o those_o jew_n that_o be_v only_o so_o by_o lineage_n and_o descent_n do_v lie_v when_o they_o call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o be_v not_o to_o call_v one_o self_n a_o jew_n in_o those_o day_n when_o john_n write_v this_o revelation_n be_v as_o much_o as_o to_o profess_v and_o to_o arrogate_v to_o themselves_o that_o they_o be_v the_o seed_n of_o jacob_n and_o have_v abraham_n to_o their_o father_n and_o be_v the_o israel_n of_o god_n the_o only_a people_n of_o god_n his_o peculiar_a inheritage_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n appertain_v the_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n to_o who_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n be_v commit_v and_o all_o other_o alien_n and_o barbarian_n in_o respect_n of_o they_o who_o alone_o have_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o child_n a_o holy_a nation_n the_o lord_n portion_n who_o alone_o have_v the_o temple_n divine_a ordinance_n worship_n and_o clear_a vision_n of_o god_n now_o when_o those_o person_n that_o boast_v themselves_o of_o those_o privilege_n yet_o persecute_v revile_v and_o blaspheme_v christ_n and_o his_o church_n as_o they_o do_v that_o of_o smyrna_n cap._n 2._o 9_o they_o cease_v to_o be_v true_a jew_n and_o make_v a_o lie_n when_o they_o call_v or_o profess_v themselves_o jew_n true_a israelite_n of_o god_n when_o indeed_o they_o be_v child_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n for_o his_o work_n and_o counsel_n they_o do_v real_o execute_v and_o perform_v they_o do_v synagere_fw-la work_v together_o plot_n study_n and_o execute_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o therefore_o worthy_a to_o be_v denominate_v his_o disciple_n of_o this_o infernal_a college_n and_o synagogue_n and_o not_o of_o christ_n church_n college_n or_o of_o the_o society_n of_o jesus_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o many_o be_v apt_a to_o call_v and_o boast_v themselves_o to_o be_v true_a jew_n true_a israelite_n of_o god_n true_a christian_n that_o in_o truth_n be_v not_o for_o their_o evil_a work_n and_o blasphemy_n both_o towards_o christ_n and_o true_a christian_n do_v evident_o show_v that_o they_o do_v lie_v in_o their_o profession_n and_o indeed_o be_v not_o true_a inward_a jew_n and_o christian_n but_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n you_o will_v have_v think_v it_o strange_a to_o hear_v of_o a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n a_o university_n as_o it_o be_v for_o the_o devil_n set_v up_o among_o the_o holy_a people_n of_o god_n his_o own_o inheritance_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v most_o true_a john_n baptist_n can_v have_v call_v they_o a_o generation_n of_o viper_n and_o christ_n more_o plain_o the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n for_o his_o work_n they_o do_v do_v and_o john_n here_o a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n and_o that_o most_o deserve_o for_o their_o contumelious_a reproach_n and_o opposition_n against_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n and_o true_a believer_n we_o have_v a_o true_a counterpane_n of_o these_o carnal_a jew_n among_o the_o christian_n church_n in_o those_o day_n who_o call_v themselves_o christian_n and_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n and_o yet_o only_o fit_a to_o be_v cast_v into_o utter_a darkness_n they_o crack_v of_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n of_o ministry_n of_o ordinance_n of_o true_a vision_n of_o god_n and_o the_o truth_n and_o yet_o who_o more_o enemy_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o to_o true_a godliness_n they_o be_v just_a like_o the_o jew_n of_o old_a that_o boast_v of_o abraham_n to_o be_v their_o father_n and_o that_o they_o be_v israelite_n as_o from_o jacob_n and_o yet_o be_v ready_a with_o the_o jew_n to_o crucify_v the_o lord_n of_o life_n in_o his_o saint_n and_o follower_n they_o think_v it_o enough_o with_o their_o elder_a brethren_n the_o jew_n to_o have_v abraham_n and_o jacobs_n to_o their_o ancestor_n and_o progenitor_n but_o for_o abraham_n faith_n or_o jacob_n spirit_n in_o wrestle_v with_o god_n let_v that_o alone_a for_o they_o that_o will_v they_o think_v it_o safe_a enough_o to_o be_v of_o israel_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n to_o be_v bear_v in_o a_o christian_n nation_n or_o church_n and_o to_o have_v some_o external_a badge_n and_o privilege_n of_o child_n as_o baptism_n or_o the_o like_a than_o all_o be_v well_o whilst_o the_o weighty_a thing_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o most_o substaintial_a part_n of_o religion_n they_o let_v lie_v by_o and_o contemn_v and_o what_o be_v all_o their_o arrogate_a title_n when_o truth_n be_v want_v but_o a_o kind_n of_o blasphemy_n and_o a_o lie_n i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o that_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o cap._n 2._o 9_o for_o indeed_o he_o be_v not_o a_o jew_n which_o be_v one_o outward_o in_o circumcision_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o he_o be_v a_o jew_n which_o be_v one_o inward_o who_o heart_n be_v circumcise_v and_o be_v one_o in_o the_o spirit_n rom._n 2.28_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o people_n that_o do_v call_v themselves_o jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o do_v lie_v 1._o the_o samaritan_n 2._o they_o of_o judea_n and_o jerusalem_n and_o both_o by_o their_o perverse_a carriage_n to_o christ_n and_o the_o truth_n do_v blaspheme_v and_o dishonour_v the_o honourable_a name_n of_o a_o jew._n so_o among_o christian_n there_o be_v two_o sort_n that_o wound_v this_o honourable_a name_n of_o christian_n who_o call_v themselves_o christian_n church_n and_o be_v not_o but_o do_v wrong_n and_o blaspheme_v the_o honourable_a name_n of_o church_n and_o christian_n i_o mean_v the_o romish_a popish_a synagogue_n and_o many_o of_o the_o pretend_a reform_a church_n the_o first_o like_o the_o jew_n of_o old_a cry_n out_o the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n o_o the_o church_n the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n the_o chair_n of_o peter_n the_o infallible_a chair_n of_o peter_n we_o be_v the_o only_a spouse_n of_o christ_n no_o salvation_n without_o our_o jurisdiction_n and_o yet_o who_o great_a blasphemer_n reproacher_n and_o persecutor_n of_o the_o true_a christian_n church_n and_o saint_n than_o they_o and_o see_v they_o will_v not_o part_v with_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n let_v they_o keep_v it_o but_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v here_o mention_v the_o church_n or_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n not_o of_o christ_n and_o as_o long_o as_o their_o idolatry_n continue_v she_o will_v ever_o be_v a_o babel_n not_o a_o bethel_n counterfeit_a jew_n no_o real_a spiritual_a one_o christian_n only_a in_o title_n and_o show_n not_o in_o truth_n notwithstanding_o all_o their_o high_a pretension_n and_o claim_n to_o the_o contrary_a 2._o so_o many_o of_o the_o pretend_v reform_v christian_n cry_v out_o we_o be_v of_o the_o reformation_n we_o be_v baptize_v we_o be_v of_o the_o lutheran_n confession_n we_o be_v of_o the_o calvinist_n and_o yet_o no_o papist_n more_a blind_a more_o ignorant_a more_o vile_a more_o profane_a or_o great_a enemy_n to_o christ_n in_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n the_o name_n title_n and_o honour_n of_o christian_n they_o love_n they_o esteem_v they_o expect_v and_o yet_o who_o vain_a who_o more_o profane_a more_o ungodly_a or_o less_o deserve_v it_o then_o they_o they_o be_v only_o nominal_a christian_n outward_a jew_n but_o to_o the_o inward_a spiritual_a jew_n who_o more_o stranger_n to_o it_o then_o they_o let_v they_o therefore_o look_v to_o it_o notwithstanding_o their_o high_a and_o honourable_a affect_a title_n lest_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v declare_v the_o very_a truth_n and_o manifest_a to_o all_o true_a christian_n that_o they_o be_v only_o seem_v jew_n and_o do_v lie_v
when_o they_o call_v themselves_o so_o and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o true_a christian_n church_n but_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n see_v more_o hereon_o cap._n 2._o vers_fw-la 9_o behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n before_o thy_o foot_n and_o they_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o these_o word_n contain_v a_o promise_n to_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n that_o christ_n will_v make_v those_o enemy_n of_o she_o the_o blaspheme_a jew_n to_o come_v and_o worship_n before_o her_o foot_n that_o be_v will_v make_v they_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sceptre_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o worship_v he_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o philadelphia_n which_o for_o her_o purity_n and_o soundness_n may_v pass_v for_o a_o type_n and_o figure_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n before_o who_o these_o carnal_a formal_a jew_n shall_v fall_v low_a and_o worship_n object_n but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v who_o shall_v they_o be_v make_v to_o worship_n i_o answer_v first_o god_n in_o christ_n who_o they_o have_v blaspheme_v and_o dishonour_v the_o sole_a object_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o philadelphia_n and_o the_o true_a church_n do_v honour_n and_o obey_v second_o they_o shall_v civil_o worship_v and_o reverence_n philadelphia_n and_o the_o true_a church_n for_o the_o honour_n that_o christ_n have_v put_v upon_o she_o and_o so_o will_v think_v it_o a_o honour_n indeed_o to_o come_v under_o the_o same_o profession_n worship_n and_o discipline_n with_o the_o christian_n church_n and_o when_o i_o have_v do_v this_o say_v christ_n they_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o always_o love_v thou_o and_o that_o thou_o be_v most_o dear_a unto_o i_o now_o this_o prophecy_n and_o promise_n be_v never_o fulfil_v unto_o philadelphia_n in_o the_o full_a extent_n thereof_o only_o we_o read_v of_o some_o few_o of_o the_o malignant_a jew_n give_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n and_o other_o of_o that_o age_n but_o how_o this_o promise_n be_v fulfil_v in_o the_o latitude_n thereof_o it_o can_v enter_v into_o my_o understanding_n to_o comprehend_v for_o when_o ever_o do_v those_o perverse_a jew_n that_o for_o their_o notorious_a malignity_n against_o christ_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v just_o call_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n come_v and_o worship_n or_o bow_v down_o before_o the_o foot_n of_o philadelphia_n or_o when_o do_v they_o submit_v to_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n only_o but_o in_o some_o first_o fruit_n and_o that_o before_o this_o be_v write_v to_o philadelphia_n and_o when_o do_v the_o jewish_a synagogue_n of_o satan_n even_o to_o this_o day_n ever_o since_o become_v the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n more_o than_o some_o few_o scatter_a person_n that_o be_v convert_v to_o the_o faith_n inconsiderable_a to_o the_o fulfil_n of_o this_o promise_n or_o when_o do_v ever_o god_n make_v it_o it_o eminent_o appear_v to_o they_o that_o the_o christian_n church_n be_v the_o only_o belove_a people_n and_o society_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n above_o all_o other_o in_o the_o world_n see_v those_o thing_n be_v never_o yet_o accomplish_v according_a to_o the_o fullness_n of_o this_o promise_n sure_o there_o be_v yet_o a_o time_n to_o come_v when_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o more_o universal_a call_n of_o the_o jewish_a synagogue_n into_o holy_a philadelphia_n or_o the_o christian_n church_n than_o ever_o yet_o have_v be_v to_o this_o present_a day_n a_o note_n hence_o will_v rise_v observe_v that_o god_n will_v not_o only_o make_v the_o natural_a obstinate_a jew_n but_o also_o their_o true_a counterpane_n the_o nominal_a seem_a christian_n to_o come_v and_o bow_v before_o the_o true_a spouse_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o latter_a day_n this_o be_v confirm_v from_o this_o verse_n wherein_o it_o be_v promise_v by_o christ_n that_o the_o obstinate_a jew_n shall_v come_v in_o and_o worship_n before_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n but_o towards_o philadelphia_n in_o the_o latter_a this_o be_v never_o as_o yet_o perform_v in_o the_o extensiveness_n of_o this_o scripture_n as_o be_v above_o manifest_v therefore_o as_o yet_o to_o come_v to_o pass_v before_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o true_a philadelphia_n the_o holy_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o only_o the_o natural_a jew_n shall_v come_v in_o submit_v and_o join_v to_o the_o holy_a church_n of_o christ_n but_o all_o formal_a birth_n christian_n shall_v also_o either_o come_v in_o and_o worship_n before_o this_o true_a church_n or_o else_o shall_v at_o least_o wise_a reverence_n this_o true_a holy_a church_n as_o the_o only_o belove_v of_o christ_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lamb_n will_v be_v upon_o she_o and_o the_o nation_n of_o they_o which_o be_v save_v shall_v walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o it_o and_o for_o her_o great_a honour_n the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n do_v bring_v their_o glory_n and_o honour_n into_o it_o rev_n 21.23_o and_o it_o be_v but_o just_a that_o god_n true_a church_n and_o people_n shall_v have_v a_o day_n too_o as_o well_o as_o their_o adversary_n have_v they_o we_o know_v how_o that_o the_o great_a and_o lofty_a one_o of_o the_o world_n have_v put_v all_o possible_a reproach_n and_o affliction_n on_o the_o saint_n of_o god_n and_o church_n of_o the_o pure_a judgement_n but_o yet_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v convince_v and_o shall_v know_v the_o saint_n to_o be_v the_o only_o belove_v of_o god_n and_o the_o great_a interest_n and_o stay_n of_o kingdom_n and_o then_o the_o great_a monarch_n will_v be_v glad_a to_o take_v hold_n on_o the_o skirt_n of_o a_o jew_n to_o come_v under_o the_o protection_n of_o this_o holy_a church_n for_o their_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n quest._n and_o if_o any_o one_o ask_v when_o this_o shall_v be_v answ_n when_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o gentile_n shall_v come_v in_o and_o all_o israel_n shall_v be_v save_v rom._n 11._o when_o christ_n shall_v appear_v again_o for_o the_o restore_n of_o his_o kingdom_n than_o the_o kingdom_n and_o dominion_n and_o the_o greatness_n of_o the_o kingdom_n under_o the_o whole_a heaven_n shall_v be_v give_v unto_o the_o people_n of_o the_o saint_n of_o the_o most_o high_a dan._n 7.27_o then_o shall_v all_o come_v and_o worship_n before_o philadelphia_n the_o glorious_a new_a unite_a christian_n church_n of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n and_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o true_a zion_n the_o dwell_a place_n of_o god_n glory_n whereunto_o all_o nation_n shall_v flock_v and_o worship_n before_o it_o and_o become_v one_o with_o it_o or_o otherwise_o shall_v be_v make_v bow_n unto_o the_o iron_n sceptre_n of_o christ_n whereby_o he_o will_v make_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o submit_v to_o his_o sovereign_a authority_n and_o fall_v and_o worship_n before_o his_o foot_n rev._n 19.15_o verse_n 10._o because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n i_o also_o will_v keep_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n that_o for_o which_o philadelphia_n be_v commend_v for_o by_o christ_n be_v for_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o his_o patience_n this_o have_v either_o respect_n to_o christ_n or_o unto_o the_o church_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n that_o be_v the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n which_o with_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o patience_n i_o have_v teach_v the_o world_n and_o with_o a_o like_a patience_n preach_v it_o from_o time_n to_o time_n or_o else_o the_o effect_n be_v put_v for_o the_o cause_n because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o my_o gospel_n which_o enjoin_v and_o work_v patience_n either_o or_o both_o of_o these_o sense_n may_v apt_o be_v raise_v and_o entertain_v from_o these_o word_n without_o any_o prejudice_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o these_o word_n or_o 2._o as_o respect_v the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n this_o word_n as_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n which_o he_o teach_v patient_o the_o word_n be_v for_o many_o generation_n so_o it_o be_v receive_v and_o keep_v by_o she_o with_o patience_n and_o constancy_n for_o which_o she_o have_v the_o reward_n of_o be_v keep_v from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n quest_n but_o whither_o be_v philadelphia_n so_o save_v and_o keep_v from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n that_o fall_v upon_o all_o other_o her_o sister_n church_n that_o she_o be_v so_o free_v that_o she_o be_v not_o touch_v by_o it_o answ_n it_o be_v not_o probable_a that_o philadelphia_n go_v free_a when_o the_o ten_o day_n of_o persecution_n under_o the_o emperor_n
domitian_n trajane_n etc._n etc._n reach_v the_o rest_n of_o the_o neighbour_n asian_a church_n but_o she_o have_v her_o portion_n also_o of_o affliction_n and_o trial_n under_o they_o ten_o persecution_n but_o it_o seem_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v expression_n here_o her_o portion_n herein_o be_v not_o so_o large_a as_o other_o have_v and_o therefore_o as_o to_o she_o it_o be_v call_v a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n a_o small_a particle_n of_o time_n respect_v the_o former_a ten_o day_n that_o go_v over_o smyrna_n cap._n 2._o 10._o quest_n how_o then_o be_v it_o say_v here_o that_o she_o be_v keep_v or_o save_v from_o this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n answ_n it_o be_v as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v i_o will_v deliver_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n now_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o save_v or_o deliver_v from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n several_a manner_n of_o way_n first_o that_o the_o temptation_n or_o trial_n shall_v not_o at_o all_o touch_v they_o this_o be_v not_o promise_v to_o philadelphia_n second_o that_o though_o it_o shall_v come_v upon_o they_o yet_o they_o shall_v not_o suffer_v or_o quail_v under_o it_o but_o shall_v overcome_v the_o temptation_n or_o calamity_n manful_o by_o receive_v strength_n from_o christ_n to_o undergo_v it_o three_o that_o though_o they_o shall_v suffer_v under_o this_o hour_n of_o trial_n yet_o it_o shall_v not_o so_o reach_v they_o as_o to_o undo_v their_o eternal_a state_n and_o condition_n this_o be_v seal_v secure_v and_o keep_v safe_a by_o christ_n four_o they_o be_v save_v and_o deliver_v from_o this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n comparative_o as_o unto_o other_o there_o be_v no_o more_o lay_v upon_o they_o than_o they_o be_v able_a to_o bear_v it_o be_v but_o a_o hour_n a_o taste_n of_o affliction_n while_o other_o pass_v under_o ten_o burn_a day_n of_o trial_n in_o these_o three_o latter_a sense_n philadelphia_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v keep_v safe_a from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n either_o from_o fail_v under_o it_o or_o lose_v by_o it_o in_o their_o eternal_a estate_n or_o comparative_o unto_o other_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o though_o the_o saint_n may_v suffer_v in_o a_o day_n of_o trial_n yet_o they_o receive_v little_a loss_n by_o it_o but_o raâ—her_o gain_v and_o profit_n it_o be_v but_o for_o a_o trial_n and_o refinement_n of_o their_o grace_n not_o for_o a_o destruction_n of_o they_o it_o be_v but_o for_o a_o hour_n not_o for_o a_o age_n and_o though_o the_o common_a calamity_n or_o hour_n of_o temptation_n shall_v so_o reach_v they_o as_o to_o deprive_v they_o of_o this_o life_n as_o often_o it_o do_v yet_o know_v there_o be_v save_v and_o deliver_v from_o the_o judgement_n and_o evil_a of_o the_o temptation_n they_o be_v above_o that_o they_o be_v eterna_o mark_v by_o god_n and_o not_o one_o of_o they_o shall_v be_v lose_v but_o shall_v be_v gather_v and_o make_v up_o as_o his_o jewel_n from_o out_o of_o the_o ash_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o execution_n of_o god_n judgement_n god_n look_v with_o a_o distinguish_n and_o consider_v eye_n upon_o all_o person_n that_o he_o touch_v therewith_o his_o eye_n distinguish_v between_o the_o precious_a and_o the_o vile_a psal_n 34.15_o 16._o the_o eye_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o the_o righteous_a and_o the_o face_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v against_o they_o that_o do_v evil_a that_o when_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n be_v come_v upon_o the_o whole_a world_n christ_n be_v then_o take_v a_o special_a care_n for_o he_o in_o save_v they_o and_o seal_v they_o from_o the_o evil_n of_o that_o hour_n in_o rev._n 7.3_o when_o christ_n send_v forth_o his_o four_o destroy_a angel_n a_o special_a charge_n be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n give_v they_o say_v hurt_v not_o the_o earth_n neither_o the_o sea_n nor_o the_o tree_n till_o we_o have_v seal_v the_o servant_n of_o our_o god_n in_o their_o forehead_n and_o so_o they_o go_v present_o on_o to_o the_o seal_n and_o secure_v of_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n before_o they_o go_v on_o with_o their_o destroy_a weapon_n compare_v ezek._n 9.4_o etc._n etc._n hereunto_o o_o the_o goodness_n of_o our_o god_n who_o have_v a_o special_a care_n of_o we_o and_o eye_n towards_o we_o in_o the_o common_a calamity_n of_o the_o world_n who_o will_v either_o preserve_v we_o as_o israel_n in_o a_o goshen_n or_o as_o christ_n himself_o be_v in_o egypt_n whilst_o the_o herod_n of_o the_o world_n do_v wrack_n their_o curse_a malice_n upon_o the_o infant_n of_o judea_n for_o christ_n sake_n and_o so_o our_o temptation_n will_v be_v but_o for_o a_o hour_n as_o respect_v other_o and_o if_o it_o reach_v we_o further_o and_o seize_v our_o person_n and_o the_o relation_n most_o dear_a unto_o we_o be_v assure_v and_o know_v it_o be_v but_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n and_o we_o shall_v be_v deliver_v from_o it_o and_o become_v more_o than_o conqueror_n through_o christ_n master_n brightman_n on_o this_o verse_n that_o make_v the_o reform_a church_n according_a to_o calvine_n the_o counterpane_n of_o this_o of_o philadelphia_n that_o the_o reform_a church_n assert_n the_o conterpane_n as_o the_o type_n former_o have_v be_v to_o have_v a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n a_o more_o grievous_a affliction_n far_o above_o all_o other_o yet_o a_o short_a one_o and_o be_v to_o come_v to_o pass_v by_o the_o romish_a antichrist_n in_o the_o west_n and_o the_o turkish_a mahometan_a in_o the_o east_n but_o yet_o herein_o the_o church_n shall_v get_v the_o victory_n and_o i_o be_o thus_o far_o of_o opinion_n with_o master_n brightman_n that_o before_o the_o great_a battle_n of_o almighty_n god_n and_o destruction_n of_o antichrist_n the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n shall_v more_o eminent_o and_o signal_o be_v slay_v and_o tread_v under_o foot_n by_o her_o antichristian_a enemy_n then_o at_o present_a she_o be_v for_o this_o be_v the_o day_n of_o strive_v and_o only_o of_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v forth_o and_o antichrist_n still_o hinder_v and_o prevail_v for_o it_o be_v give_v he_o all_o the_o time_n of_o his_o reign_n to_o make_v war_n with_o the_o saint_n and_o to_o prevail_v rev._n 13.7_o but_o before_o the_o end_n of_o his_o reign_n and_o about_o the_o finish_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o faithful_a witness_n of_o christ_n the_o beast_n that_o ascend_v out_o of_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n and_o shall_v make_v war_n against_o they_o and_o not_o only_o overcome_v they_o but_o kill_v they_o rev._n 11.7_o 8._o etc._n etc._n and_o their_o dead_a body_n shall_v lie_v in_o the_o street_n of_o the_o great_a city_n for_o three_o day_n and_o a_o half_a as_o the_o reproach_n and_o scorn_n of_o all_o their_o enemy_n and_o the_o expectance_n of_o this_o signal_n day_n of_o affliction_n over_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o utter_a overthrow_n of_o the_o antichristian_a beast_n it_o far_o more_o conduce_v to_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n than_o a_o overhasty_a expectance_n thereof_o that_o every_o one_o may_v be_v prepare_v by_o faith_n and_o holiness_n and_o remain_v unmovable_a in_o that_o day_n it_o be_v still_o the_o usual_a method_n of_o christ_n after_o great_a and_o signal_n calamity_n and_o affliction_n to_o come_v with_o salvation_n joy_n and_o rest_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n for_o he_o himself_o by_o the_o way_n of_o the_o cross_n enter_v into_o his_o glory_n therefore_o you_o saint_n think_v it_o not_o strange_a when_o such_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n come_v over_o you_o christ_n will_v save_v and_o keep_v you_o from_o it_o and_o you_o shall_v be_v conqueror_n at_o the_o last_o and_o shall_v reign_v on_o earth_n rev._n 5.11_o to_o proceed_v to_o the_o next_o word_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n this_o hour_n of_o temptation_n that_o be_v to_o come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o all_o the_o world_n indefinite_o but_o in_o a_o limit_a sense_n as_o that_o god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a son_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v the_o world_n that_o christ_n die_v for_o his_o holy_a church_n and_o member_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a whatsoever_o the_o arminâ—â—n_n and_o universalist_n say_v to_o the_o contrary_a that_o by_o the_o world_n here_o be_v mean_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n disperse_v in_o asia_n and_o else_o where_o for_o christ_n never_o send_v a_o day_n or_o hour_n of_o trial_n on_o the_o wicked_a world_n for_o what_o need_n he_o so_o to_o do_v for_o they_o be_v neither_o regenerate_v nor_o under_o grace_n and_o therefore_o have_v no_o grace_n to_o make_v trial_n of_o either_o by_o way_n of_o quicken_a strengthen_v or_o confirm_v so_o that_o when_o christ_n promise_v to_o philadelphia_n that_o he_o
remissness_n and_o inconstancy_n in_o the_o truth_n to_o wit_n the_o honour_n and_o reverence_n which_o their_o sincere_a profession_n acquire_v from_o the_o church_n and_o all_o person_n round_o about_o they_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o those_o church_n that_o hold_v fast_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n with_o most_o constancy_n and_o courage_n in_o the_o time_n of_o trial_n become_v the_o most_o honourable_a and_o worthy_a of_o a_o crown_n of_o any_o people_n in_o the_o world_n who_o but_o philadelphia_n be_v worthy_a that_o the_o obstinate_a jew_n enemy_n unto_o the_o truth_n shall_v come_v and_o bow_n and_o worship_n before_o she_o she_o keep_v close_o to_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n therefore_o none_o shall_v take_v away_o her_o crown_n her_o honour_n shall_v still_o remain_v among_o the_o church_n as_o long_o as_o any_o church_n shall_v endure_v if_o we_o tread_v in_o the_o step_n of_o faithful_a philadelphia_n and_o hold_v fast_o and_o go_v on_o manful_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n god_n will_v make_v the_o formal_a jew_n of_o our_o time_n the_o high_a pretend_v catholic_a churchman_n to_o bow_v and_o worship_n before_o our_o foot_n be_v not_o our_o name_n i_o mean_v the_o name_n of_o england_n grow_v honourable_a among_o the_o nation_n their_o friend_n abroad_o and_o terrible_a unto_o their_o enemy_n and_o how_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v but_o by_o mean_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o the_o land_n that_o hold_v fast_o and_o maintain_v with_o courage_n and_o constancy_n the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n among_o we_o in_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n and_o trial_n when_o the_o prelatical_a fire_n of_o persecution_n be_v on_o foot_n if_o we_o hold_v fast_o to_o christ_n and_o persist_v in_o his_o truth_n and_o doctrine_n none_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o take_v away_o our_o crown_n but_o if_o we_o flag_n in_o our_o duty_n to_o he_o our_o crown_n will_v be_v the_o less_o and_o our_o honour_n will_v soon_o flag_n also_o when_o israel_n keep_v close_o to_o god_n and_o reform_v up_o unto_o his_o holy_a pattern_n in_o the_o mount_n god_n make_v they_o famous_a among_o the_o nation_n and_o a_o burdensome_a stone_n to_o all_o that_o meddle_v with_o they_o but_o when_o they_o depart_v from_o god_n by_o their_o evil_n and_o abominable_a course_n god_n give_v they_o up_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o enemy_n and_o lead_v they_o into_o the_o land_n of_o captivity_n and_o since_o for_o their_o obstinacy_n in_o iniquity_n they_o have_v quite_o lose_v their_o crown_n and_o become_v a_o disperse_a people_n and_o a_o reproach_n among_o all_o nation_n where_o they_o live_v and_o this_o be_v according_a to_o that_o good_a advice_n give_v by_o godly_a david_n as_o his_o last_o legacy_n to_o his_o wise_a son_n solomon_n in_o 1_o chron._n 28.9_o which_o be_v applicable_a to_o every_o faithful_a soul_n and_o thou_o solomon_n my_o son_n know_v thou_o the_o god_n of_o thy_o father_n and_o serve_v he_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n and_o with_o a_o willing_a mind_n for_o the_o lord_n search_v all_o heart_n and_o understand_v all_o the_o imagination_n of_o the_o thought_n if_o thou_o seek_v he_o he_o will_v be_v find_v of_o thou_o but_o if_o thou_o forsake_v he_o he_o will_v cast_v thou_o off_o for_o ever_o verse_n 12._o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o make_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n and_o he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o and_o i_o will_v write_v upon_o he_o the_o name_n of_o my_o god_n and_o the_o name_n of_o the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n which_o be_v new_a jerusalem_n which_o come_v down_o out_o of_o heaven_n from_o my_o god_n and_o i_o will_v write_v upon_o he_o my_o new_a name_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d he_o that_o overcome_v the_o nominative_a case_n be_v put_v absolute_o by_o a_o defect_n of_o a_o preposition_n to_o of_o or_o for_o which_o be_v a_o hebraisme_n the_o word_n be_v thus_o to_o be_v read_v as_o for_o he_o that_o overcome_v i_o will_v make_v a_o pillar_n etc._n etc._n agreeable_a to_o this_o be_v those_o place_n rom._n 8.3_o for_o what_o be_v impossible_a to_o the_o law_n by_o a_o hebraism_n ought_v to_o be_v read_v as_o for_o or_o touch_v the_o impossibility_n of_o the_o law_n and_o psalm_n 18.30_o jehovah_n his_o way_n be_v perfect_a which_o we_o read_v the_o way_n of_o god_n or_o as_o for_o god_n his_o way_n be_v perfect_a the_o same_o read_n be_v in_o rev._n cap._n 2._o 26._o the_o reward_n of_o he_o that_o overcome_v be_v double_a 1._o i_o will_v make_v he_o a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n and_o he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o 2._o christ_n set_v upon_o he_o a_o threefold_a name_n the_o name_n of_o his_o god_n the_o name_n of_o new_a jerusalem_n and_o his_o own_o new_a name_n this_o allusion_n of_o a_o pillar_n be_v take_v up_o by_o the_o spirit_n from_o those_o two_o brazen_a pillar_n in_o solomon_n temple_n which_o be_v a_o type_n of_o the_o true_a temple_n and_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o nothing_o be_v make_v or_o place_v therein_o in_o vain_a though_o they_o seem_v small_a but_o do_v typify_v and_o signify_v somewhat_o to_o we_o solomon_n call_v his_o two_o pillar_n which_o he_o erect_v by_o two_o remarkable_a name_n 1_o king_n 7.21_o the_o right_a pillar_n by_o the_o name_n of_o jâ—hin_n and_o the_o leave_v by_o the_o name_n of_o boaz_n the_o one_o signify_v he_o will_v establish_v and_o the_o other_o in_o it_o there_o be_v strength_n so_o in_o the_o antitype_n those_o overcome_a saint_n that_o christ_n make_v pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o his_o god_n have_v these_o two_o quality_n or_o property_n put_v upon_o they_o establishment_n and_o perpetuity_n both_o in_o their_o spiritual_a strength_n and_o grace_n and_o also_o in_o their_o new_a church_n state_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o lest_o any_o shall_v think_v that_o those_o new_a pillar_n of_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n may_v fail_v as_o those_o of_o solomon_n do_v when_o they_o be_v break_v and_o the_o brass_n thereof_o carry_v away_o by_o nabuchadnezzar_n into_o babel_n jer._n 52.17_o there_o be_v another_o additional_a property_n put_v upon_o they_o then_o that_o of_o perpetuity_n and_o strength_n even_o of_o eternity_n in_o those_o word_n and_o he_o shall_v go_v no_o more_o out_o after_o the_o conquer_a saint_n be_v take_v into_o this_o holy_a temple_n there_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o be_v turn_v out_o of_o possession_n of_o it_o no_o nabuchadnezzar_n shall_v ever_o come_v and_o break_v they_o in_o piece_n or_o carry_v they_o by_o force_n into_o captivity_n the_o nebuchadnezar_n of_o the_o world_n have_v always_o hitherto_o under_o several_a form_n of_o beast_n and_o government_n carry_v away_o and_o break_v to_o piece_n the_o weak_a and_o infirm_a pillar_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n fot_o indeed_o they_o be_v give_v into_o their_o hand_n by_o god_n to_o be_v overcome_v and_o tread_v under_o foot_n by_o they_o rev._n 11._o but_o have_v at_o last_o overcom_v by_o suffering_n and_o patience_n christ_n will_v raise_v they_o up_o again_o to_o become_v pillar_n in_o his_o new_a temple_n that_o shall_v never_o go_v out_o any_o more_o and_o will_v make_v they_o other_o gate_n person_n then_o ever_o former_o they_o be_v for_o he_o will_v write_v upon_o they_o the_o name_n of_o his_o god_n and_o what_o be_v that_o jehovah_n shaddai_n the_o lord_n the_o mighty_a god_n and_o the_o name_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o his_o own_o new_a name_n phil._n 2.9_o all_o intimate_v their_o glorious_a state_n and_o dignity_n that_o christ_n will_v put_v they_o in_o possession_n of_o in_o that_o new_a church-state_n which_o be_v promise_v they_o before_o the_o ultimate_a day_n of_o judgement_n which_o shall_v never_o perish_v nor_o any_o more_o be_v take_v from_o they_o but_o on_o this_o more_o hereafter_o from_o the_o word_n i_o will_v make_v he_o a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o my_o god_n note_v observe_v the_o overcome_v saint_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v make_v most_o honourable_a in_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n the_o new_a temple_n of_o god_n the_o new_a church_n state_n that_o christ_n will_v restore_v on_o earth_n before_o the_o end_n of_o all_o prophesy_v of_o rev._n 21.1_o etc._n etc._n they_o be_v make_v pillar_n and_o pillar_n in_o the_o church_n be_v honourable_a james_n and_o john_n be_v call_v pillar_n great_a eminent_a apostle_n and_o those_o be_v place_v in_o the_o porch_n of_o solomon_n temple_n for_o the_o great_a ornament_n and_o glory_n thereof_o they_o sit_v on_o throne_n judge_v the_o nation_n round_o about_o they_o be_v make_v king_n and_o priest_n unto_o their_o god_n and_o what_o more_o honourable_a than_o those_o high_a calling_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n of_o
king_n priest_n and_o judge_n yea_o the_o name_n of_o god_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n be_v write_v upon_o they_o and_o therefore_o sure_a most_o honourable_a little_o do_v the_o high_a one_o of_o this_o present_a generation_n with_o their_o counterfeit_n and_o mock-honour_n think_v that_o the_o now_o poor_a despicable_a saint_n of_o christ_n who_o they_o so_o much_o scorn_v and_o trample_v underfoot_n be_v those_o for_o who_o sake_n the_o world_n be_v preserve_v from_o flame_a fire_n and_o that_o one_o day_n shall_v become_v the_o only_a king_n ruler_n and_o prince_n thereof_o maugre_o all_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n and_o all_o their_o antichristian_a enemy_n in_o the_o world_n to_o the_o contrary_n if_o the_o great_a and_o honourable_a person_n of_o the_o world_n do_v but_o very_o believe_v that_o the_o saint_n of_o christ_n shall_v one_o day_n become_v so_o honourable_a in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n they_o will_v more_o esteem_v they_o then_o they_o do_v as_o heir_n bear_v unto_o so_o great_a a_o kingdom_n it_o be_v the_o common_a and_o not_o unwise_a practice_n of_o politic_a courtier_n when_o their_o old_a sovereign_n or_o prince_n be_v upon_o decline_v they_o adore_v and_o worship_v the_o next_o heir_n or_o repute_v successor_n as_o the_o rise_a sun_n as_o the_o near_a step_n to_o their_o preferment_n and_o will_v you_o not_o be_v so_o wise_a you_o son_n of_o man_n to_o make_v good_a your_o interest_n with_o the_o rise_a heir_n and_o child_n of_o this_o great_a ensue_a monarch_n three_o of_o the_o great_a monarch_n of_o the_o world_n be_v dead_a and_o we_o have_v see_v their_o grave_n the_o four_o be_v sick_a with_o age_n if_o not_o even_o at_o death_n door_n have_v one_o foot_n in_o his_o grave_n already_o for_o his_o weakness_n and_o infirmity_n be_v but_o as_o a_o image_n of_o the_o first_o beast_n or_o of_o himself_o when_o he_o be_v in_o his_o youth_n under_o his_o caesarian_a head_n and_o empire_n and_o the_o five_o be_v draw_v nigh_o have_v already_o pour_v out_o many_o vial_n of_o ruin_n upon_o the_o four_o to_o make_v way_n for_o the_o appearance_n of_o himself_o this_o heavenly_a one_o and_o think_v you_o be_v it_o not_o good_a and_o honest_a policy_n to_o come_v under_o the_o skirt_n of_o the_o courtier_n of_o this_o great_a and_o heavenly_a prince_n to_o become_v one_o in_o faith_n manner_n discipline_n and_o interest_n with_o they_o that_o when_o he_o appear_v you_o may_v joint_o reign_v with_o he_o and_o they_o in_o his_o new_a and_o heavenly_a kingdom_n it_o will_v be_v the_o first_o step_n unto_o honour_n and_o your_o rise_n to_o become_v one_o in_o interest_n with_o the_o now_o despicable_a and_o vilify_v saint_n of_o christ_n for_o though_o at_o present_a they_o differ_v nothing_o from_o servant_n yet_o know_v they_o will_v be_v one_o day_n heir_n of_o all_o observe_v 2._o that_o christ_n new_a restore_v church-state_n new_a temple_n new_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n shall_v never_o perish_v but_o be_v establish_v for_o ever_o though_o some_o will_v have_v these_o word_n to_o be_v make_v pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o to_o go_v out_o no_o more_o to_o signify_v the_o stability_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o elect_a whereunto_o i_o can_v whole_o assent_v for_o though_o i_o grant_v that_o the_o faithful_a as_o philadelphia_n be_v make_v pillar_n for_o their_o stability_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o strength_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o their_o faith_n be_v so_o confirm_v to_o they_o that_o they_o never_o need_v to_o fear_v of_o utter_a fail_v or_o perish_v yet_o there_o be_v more_o promise_v in_o this_o verse_n than_o a_o mere_a confirmation_n of_o the_o elect_a from_o non-falling_a away_o for_o the_o next_o coherent_a word_n do_v connote_v so_o much_o when_o christ_n promise_v to_o write_v the_o name_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n and_o the_o new_a name_n of_o christ_n upon_o they_o to_o be_v make_v pillar_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o to_o be_v establish_v therein_o be_v always_o a_o continue_a promise_n and_o always_o perform_v to_o the_o church_n in_o all_o age_n but_o the_o name_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o the_o new_a name_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v annex_v hereunto_o be_v never_o yet_o make_v good_a unto_o the_o church_n but_o have_v reference_n unto_o a_o more_o glorious_a future_a church-state_n on_o earth_n speak_v of_o rev._n 21_o 1._o i_o see_v a_o new_a heaven_n and_o a_o new_a earth_n which_o in_o vers_fw-la 10._o be_v call_v the_o great_a city_n the_o holy_a jerusalem_n descend_v out_o of_o heaven_n from_o god_n which_o on_o the_o subsequent_a word_n of_o this_o verse_n shall_v more_o evident_o be_v explain_v but_o to_o return_v this_o new_a church-state_n new_a temple_n be_v to_o continue_v to_o perpetuity_n yea_o for_o everlasting_a they_o that_o enter_v thereinto_o be_v make_v firm_a as_o pillar_n not_o to_o be_v remove_v they_o that_o enter_v into_o the_o gate_n of_o the_o present_a visible_a temple_n may_v again_o be_v remove_v eject_v and_o lose_v their_o station_n for_o be_v not_o root_v in_o the_o faith_n yea_o and_o the_o temple_n itself_o as_o those_o seven_o asian_a temple_n remove_v overthrow_v and_o extirpate_v for_o their_o iniquity_n but_o they_o that_o enter_v into_o this_o holy_a new_a temple_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n they_o be_v make_v pillar_n therein_o and_o shall_v never_o go_v forth_o more_o until_o christ_n lay_v down_o his_o kingdom_n unto_o the_o father_n and_o god_n shall_v be_v all_o in_o all_o not_o as_o some_o vain_o object_n against_o the_o expectant_a triumph_v saint_n that_o they_o shall_v reign_v for_o the_o term_n of_o a_o thousand_o year_n and_o then_o their_o kingdom_n shall_v cease_v but_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o when_o gog_n and_o magog_n shall_v be_v destroy_v and_o all_o christ_n open_a enemy_n cast_v into_o the_o bottomless_a lake_n of_o fire_n about_o the_o end_n of_o the_o saint_n triumphant_a thousand_o year_n rev._n 20.10_o than_o that_o kingdom_n which_o christ_n during_o all_o that_o former_a happy_a millenary_a rule_v and_o reign_v in_o as_o mediator_n and_o god-man_n which_o proper_o be_v call_v his_o throne_n and_o his_o kingdom_n shall_v be_v devolve_v and_o swallow_v up_o by_o a_o more_o glorious_a kingdom_n and_o the_o saint_n translate_v in_o the_o high_a heavenly_a glory_n which_o for_o the_o most_o excellent_a and_o godlike_a property_n thereof_o be_v call_v in_o 1_o cor._n 15.24_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n even_o the_o father_n and_o wherein_o all_o ordinance_n shall_v cease_v for_o john_n in_o rev._n 21.22_o say_v and_o i_o see_v no_o temple_n therein_o for_o the_o lord_n god_n almighty_a and_o the_o lamb_n be_v the_o temple_n of_o it_o and_o in_o chap._n 22._o v._n 5._o describe_v further_o this_o glorious_a state_n he_o say_v and_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o night_n there_o and_o they_o need_v no_o candle_n neither_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n that_o be_v those_o ordinance_n or_o the_o like_a thereunto_o we_o now_o enjoy_v for_o the_o lord_n god_n give_v they_o light_n and_o they_o shall_v reign_v forever_o and_o ever_o they_o do_v therefore_o vain_o cavil_v that_o say_v that_o christ_n shall_v utter_o and_o altogether_o cease_v to_o reign_v in_o his_o headship_n over_o his_o church_n triumphant_a from_o that_o of_o 1_o cor._n 15.24_o where_o it_o be_v say_v when_o he_o shall_v have_v deliver_v up_o the_o kingdom_n to_o god_n even_o the_o father_n when_o he_o shall_v have_v put_v down_o all_o rule_n and_o all_o authority_n and_o power_n and_o in_o v._o 28._o and_o when_o all_o thing_n shall_v be_v subdue_v unto_o he_o then_o shall_v the_o son_n also_o himself_o be_v subject_a unto_o he_o that_o put_v all_o thing_n under_o he_o that_o god_n may_v be_v all_o in_o all_o now_o the_o apostle_n meaning_n be_v not_o that_o christ_n shall_v cease_v to_o be_v head_n of_o his_o church_n and_o so_o ever_o or_o at_o any_o time_n to_o cease_v to_o rule_v over_o they_o as_o the_o member_n of_o his_o body_n mystical_a whereof_o he_o himself_o be_v head_n but_o when_o all_o his_o enemy_n be_v put_v under_o his_o foot_n and_o all_o rule_n power_n and_o authority_n in_o the_o world_n be_v by_o he_o utter_o vanquish_v and_o put_v down_o and_o when_o the_o last_o enemy_n death_n shall_v be_v destroy_v and_o death_n and_o hell_n cast_v into_o the_o lake_n of_o fire_n rev._n 20.14_o after_o the_o general_a and_o last_o judgement_n of_o the_o dead_a then_o i_o say_v christ_n shall_v deliver_v up_o to_o god_n even_o the_o father_n his_o former_a mediatory_a and_o judiciary_n kingdom_n whereby_o he_o rule_v and_o reign_v not_o only_o over_o his_o holy_a faithful_a one_o by_o his_o law_n and_o ordinance_n but_o also_o
god_n of_o power_n and_o strength_n that_o shall_v be_v set_v upon_o they_o and_o when_o will_v it_o be_v but_o in_o that_o day_n when_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n come_v down_o from_o god_n out_o of_o heaven_n rev._n 21.2_o then_o the_o weak_a saint_n shall_v be_v as_o david_n and_o the_o house_n of_o david_n as_o elohim_n zach._n 12._o 2._o the_o second_o name_n that_o be_v put_v upon_o they_o be_v that_o of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n come_v down_o from_o heaven_n they_o shall_v not_o only_o visible_o appear_v to_o have_v god_n name_n and_o nature_n upon_o they_o but_o they_o shall_v also_o visible_o appear_v to_o be_v citizen_n of_o that_o new_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o god_n and_o if_o it_o come_v down_o from_o god_n and_o from_o heaven_n then_o sure_o it_o be_v mean_v of_o a_o estate_n here_o on_o earth_n and_o not_o in_o the_o supernal_a heaven_n as_o many_o dream_n of_o concern_v this_o place_n and_o that_o of_o rev._n 21.2_o that_o jerusalem_n which_o be_v above_o and_o be_v celestial_a that_o abide_v and_o be_v fix_v and_o shall_v not_o descend_v nor_o come_v down_o but_o this_o jerusalem_n be_v to_o come_v down_o and_o to_o be_v with_o man_n rev._n 21.3_o and_o god_n will_v dwell_v with_o they_o it_o be_v bâ—t_v a_o superfluous_a promise_n for_o god_n to_o tell_v the_o bless_a in_o heaven_n he_o will_v dwell_v with_o they_o there_o that_o be_v beyond_o all_o doubt_n and_o therefore_o it_o must_v be_v here_o mean_v that_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o god_n be_v with_o man_n when_o christ_n come_v before_o the_o last_o day_n to_o the_o great_a restauration_n of_o his_o church_n on_o earth_n and_o this_o new_a city_n and_o church-state_n be_v call_v by_o christ_n the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n because_o god_n be_v the_o builder_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v say_v to_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o from_o god_n because_o the_o rise_n and_o dignity_n thereof_o shall_v be_v so_o great_a and_o wonderful_a that_o all_o shall_v acknowledge_v the_o power_n of_o god_n in_o the_o erect_n thereof_o and_o that_o his_o hand_n do_v whole_o rear_v it_o for_o god_n will_v have_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o it_o 3._o christ_n will_v write_v his_o own_o new_a name_n upon_o they_o and_o what_o be_v that_o but_o that_o name_n mention_v in_o rev._n 19.16_o king_n of_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o lord_n and_o this_o correspond_v with_o that_o name_n in_o phil._n 2.9_o which_o god_n have_v give_v christ_n which_o be_v above_o every_o name_n at_o which_o name_n every_o knee_n shall_v bow_v of_o thing_n in_o heaven_n thing_n in_o earth_n and_o thing_n under_o the_o earth_n and_o in_o heb._n 2.8_o thou_o have_v put_v all_o thing_n in_o subjection_n under_o his_o foot_n but_o now_o we_o see_v not_o yet_o all_o thing_n put_v under_o he_o sure_o christ_n as_o yet_o have_v never_o this_o new_a name_n put_v upon_o he_o though_o he_o be_v exalt_v above_o the_o heaven_n into_o glory_n but_o we_o see_v not_o yet_o all_o thing_n put_v in_o subjection_n under_o his_o foot_n nor_o yet_o every_o knee_n on_o earth_n to_o bow_v unto_o he_o or_o to_o worship_v he_o five_o part_n in_o six_o of_o the_o world_n be_v pagan_n or_o mahometan_n that_o do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o take_v notice_n of_o he_o therefore_o sure_a not_o bow_n unto_o he_o and_o among_o profess_a christian_n how_o few_o do_v sincere_o bow_v unto_o he_o all_o the_o godly_a know_v neither_o as_o yet_o have_v that_o new_a name_n of_o kâ—ng_v of_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o lord_n be_v put_v upon_o he_o as_o mediator_n and_o god-man_n i_o grant_v that_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o death_n and_o mediation_n all_o king_n in_o the_o world_n reign_n and_o decree_v justice_n and_o as_o god_n he_o be_v the_o supreme_a lord_n and_o king_n of_o king_n but_o this_o be_v not_o all_o he_o must_v as_o man_n be_v king_n of_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o lord_n and_o he_o must_v rule_v and_o reign_v in_o another_o mode_n and_o posture_n then_o ever_o hitherto_o he_o have_v do_v we_o have_v know_v he_o hitherto_o only_o as_o a_o lamb_n and_o as_o a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n rule_v by_o his_o spiritual_a law_n and_o ordinance_n in_o and_o over_o his_o saint_n only_o but_o we_o shall_v know_v he_o yet_o again_o with_o another_o new_a name_n write_v on_o he_o that_o no_o man_n know_v but_o himself_o with_o his_o head_n crown_v with_o many_o crown_n and_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a sword_n that_o with_o it_o he_o shall_v smite_v the_o nation_n and_o he_o shall_v rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n rev._n 19.12.15_o the_o nimrods_n of_o the_o world_n have_v hitherto_o reign_v and_o tread_a underfoot_n the_o holy_a city_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n have_v be_v hitherto_o king_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o title_n only_o when_o christ_n come_v first_o in_o the_o flesh_n he_o be_v only_o king_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o jure_fw-la in_o right_a and_o in_o god_n purpose_n and_o decree_n but_o never_o in_o possession_n and_o in_o esse_fw-la christ_n in_o his_o first_o come_n be_v as_o a_o heir_n under_o year_n in_o the_o form_n of_o a_o servant_n though_o lord_n of_o all_o which_o will_v be_v complete_o manifest_v at_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o his_o full_a age_n at_o his_o second_o come_v he_o be_v promise_v and_o prophesy_v to_o be_v king_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o so_o acknowledge_v not_o only_o by_o the_o three_o wise_a man_n that_o offer_v to_o he_o in_o his_o swaddle_a clout_n gold_n myrrh_n and_o frankincense_n but_o by_o himself_o also_o and_o by_o that_o inscription_n on_o his_o cross_n though_o ironical_o set_v thereon_o by_o pilate_n and_o the_o jew_n yet_o by_o divine_a ordination_n it_o be_v write_v jesus_n of_o nazareth_n king_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o this_o kingly_a power_n of_o he_o shall_v one_o day_n be_v manifest_v when_o he_o will_v arise_v and_o take_v the_o iron_n sceptre_n of_o power_n and_o force_v in_o his_o hand_n to_o destroy_v all_o his_o enemy_n and_o opposer_n of_o his_o kingdom_n he_o then_o will_v make_v it_o appearâ—_n that_o he_o be_v he_o that_o be_v bear_v king_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o then_o will_v become_v king_n of_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o lord_n and_o this_o new_a name_n of_o he_o he_o will_v write_v upon_o his_o faithful_a follower_n as_o he_o shall_v reign_v and_o triumph_v over_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n so_o they_o shall_v be_v compartner_n and_o sharer_n with_o he_o in_o the_o honour_n and_o glory_n of_o this_o kingdom_n they_o shall_v be_v take_v into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o this_o glory_n and_o shall_v sit_v with_o he_o on_o his_o throne_n as_o king_n judge_v the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n rev._n 3.21_o from_o the_o word_n note_v observe_v that_o god_n will_v make_v his_o church_n most_o glorious_a and_o triumphant_a here_o on_o earth_n before_o the_o end_n of_o all_o he_o will_v put_v his_o own_o name_n upon_o she_o she_o shall_v be_v godlike_a in_o power_n strength_n and_o glory_n she_o shall_v have_v the_o name_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o god_n write_v on_o she_o that_o for_o her_o strength_n and_o glory_n be_v describe_v in_o rev._n 21._o to_o have_v her_o wall_n and_o gate_n strong_a and_o high_a and_o of_o precious_a stone_n build_v on_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o twelve_o apostle_n and_o the_o new_a name_n of_o christ_n set_v upon_o by'r_a as_o christ_n shall_v be_v then_o king_n of_o king_n so_o she_o shall_v be_v the_o queen-city_n of_o the_o world_n rome_n or_o babylon_n shall_v be_v no_o long_o the_o empress_n of_o the_o universe_n she_o shall_v lie_v in_o dust_n and_o ash_n and_o become_v the_o habitation_n of_o owl_n and_o satyr_n while_o this_o new_a jerusalem_n or_o new_a church-state_n shall_v become_v the_o great_a city_n of_o the_o live_a god_n wherein_o his_o glory_n and_o light_n shall_v more_o eminent_o appear_v then_o in_o any_o other_o society_n ever_o hitherto_o in_o the_o world_n all_o other_o monarchy_n be_v but_o partial_a in_o respect_n of_o this_o nebuchadnezzar_n and_o the_o persian_n reach_v but_o part_n of_o asia_n alexander_n but_o a_o little_a further_o than_o they_o the_o roman_a caesar_n though_o far_o in_o the_o west_n than_o the_o former_a yet_o not_o so_o extensive_a in_o the_o east_n as_o they_o the_o spanish_a mahometan_a turkish_a persian_a tartarian_a and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o monarchy_n that_o be_v now_o a_o foot_n in_o the_o world_n the_o several_a branch_n head_n or_o horn_n of_o the_o latter_a former_a roman_a beast_n be_v but_o small_a in_o respect_n of_o this_o universal_a monarchy_n the_o church_n shall_v enjoy_v before_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n here_o on_o earth_n this_o mountain_n shall_v be_v set_v on_o the_o top_n of_o all_o other_o
in_o which_o their_o soul_n will_v delight_v neither_o can_v they_o be_v ignorant_a thereof_o be_v to_o be_v sharer_n and_o compartner_n in_o that_o kingdom_n though_o differ_v from_o one_o another_o in_o judgement_n and_o opinion_n the_o weak_a christian_n shall_v be_v a_o partner_n therein_o as_o well_o as_o the_o strong_a and_o therefore_o all_o of_o this_o sort_n must_v needs_o know_v it_o if_o it_o be_v come_v down_o from_o heaven_n on_o earth_n already_o 2._o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a of_o the_o world_n must_v needs_o then_o take_v notice_n of_o it_o also_o for_o there_o be_v write_v thereon_o the_o name_n of_o god_n of_o new_a jerusalem_n and_o the_o new_a name_n of_o the_o same_o all_o signify_v power_n strength_n and_o glory_n which_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v sensible_a of_o and_o feel_v the_o effect_n thereof_o unto_o their_o pain_n if_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n that_o they_o shall_v rule_v and_o break_v they_o as_o a_o potter_n vessel_n as_o in_o cap._n 2._o v._n 27._o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n that_o kingdom_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n from_o god_n shall_v sure_o be_v see_v and_o acknowledge_v of_o all_o and_o especial_o come_v with_o thaâ—_n power_n and_o glory_n as_o the_o day_n of_o the_o saint_n triumphant_a reign_n do_v be_v usher_v in_o with_o the_o most_o glorious_a appear_v of_o the_o morning_n 〈◊〉_d christ_n in_o the_o cloud_n with_o miriads_o of_o his_o angel_n and_o raâ—â—â—d_a saâ—â—â—s_n that_o none_o can_v possible_o be_v ignorant_a of_o it_o therefore_o that_o i_o may_v deal_v plain_o with_o those_o that_o will_v have_v the_o saint_n to_o reign_v before_o their_o leader_n head_n and_o king_n appear_v it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v doubt_v that_o their_o spirit_n be_v not_o right_a with_o their_o master_n spirit_n who_o be_v meek_a peaceable_a ready_a to_o suffer_v under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n not_o draw_v the_o sword_n to_o free_v or_o revenge_v himself_o or_o his_o follower_n but_o check_v peter_n for_o it_o when_o he_o attempt_v it_o on_o malchas_n and_o the_o rest_n that_o lay_v hand_n upon_o he_o christ_n well_o know_v that_o his_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n of_o this_o age_n of_o sin_n and_o corruption_n and_o therefore_o his_o way_n be_v not_o to_o enter_v upon_o it_o by_o sword_n and_o blood_n but_o by_o suffer_v and_o patience_n and_o so_o enter_v into_o his_o glory_n and_o they_o that_o go_v another_o way_n may_v build_v a_o city_n but_o not_o such_o a_o one_o as_o come_v down_o from_o god_n out_o of_o heaven_n who_o builder_n be_v god_n they_o may_v erect_v a_o city_n who_o builder_n be_v man_n and_o on_o who_o gate_n and_o wall_n be_v write_v their_o own_o name_n not_o of_o god_n or_o of_o christ_n nor_o of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n they_o may_v build_v a_o babel_n not_o a_o bethel_n a_o kingdom_n wherein_o the_o beast_n may_v reign_v in_o not_o christ_n and_o his_o saint_n a_o kingdom_n of_o weakness_n and_o imperfection_n whereby_o they_o themselves_o and_o all_o that_o trust_v thereunto_o may_v be_v just_o involve_v into_o utter_a ruin_n and_o misery_n for_o trust_v to_o the_o weak_a arm_n of_o flesh_n and_o leave_v off_o their_o hope_n in_o the_o live_a god_n and_o of_o that_o everlasting_a new_a city_n promise_v to_o the_o conquer_a suffer_a patient_a saint_n and_o not_o to_o the_o heady_a rebellious_a or_o precipitant_a one_o of_o the_o earth_n and_o whereon_o the_o name_n of_o god_n of_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n and_o the_o new_a name_n of_o christ_n be_v write_v and_o inscribe_v so_o plain_a and_o so_o evident_a that_o he_o that_o run_v may_v read_v it_o and_o say_v at_o the_o time_n when_o it_o descend_v that_o this_o be_v the_o spouse_n the_o lamb_n wife_n the_o great_a city_n the_o holy_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o god_n which_o shall_v be_v so_o universal_a and_o conspicuous_a for_o light_n and_o glory_n that_o all_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n that_o be_v save_v shall_v walk_v in_o the_o light_n thereof_o and_o bring_v their_o glory_n to_o it_o and_o this_o city_n have_v no_o need_n of_o the_o sun_n neither_o of_o the_o moon_n to_o shine_v in_o it_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n do_v lighten_v it_o and_o the_o lamb_n be_v the_o light_n thereof_o rev._n 21.23_o verse_n 13._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n if_o it_o be_v demand_v why_o these_o word_n be_v so_o often_o inculcate_v at_o the_o end_n of_o each_o particular_a epistle_n to_o the_o several_a church_n i_o answer_v what_o be_v write_v to_o they_o be_v not_o only_o peculiarly_a relate_v unto_o themselves_o but_o unto_o all_o other_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o also_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n come_v under_o the_o same_o condition_n with_o themselves_o according_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n rom._n 15.4_o it_o be_v not_o only_o write_v for_o they_o but_o for_o our_o instruction_n also_o and_o therefore_o let_v the_o wise_a christian_n consider_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n ver._n 14._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v the_o amen_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n the_o seven_o and_o last_o of_o christ_n monitory_a epistle_n be_v write_v to_o the_o chief_a minister_n or_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n which_o be_v archippus_n as_o some_o say_v mention_v coloss_n 4.17_o not_o far_o from_o philadelphia_n in_o the_o lesser_a asia_n it_o be_v call_v laodicea_n from_o laodice_n wife_n of_o antiochus_n who_o build_v it_o in_o honour_n of_o his_o wife_n and_o call_v it_o according_a to_o her_o name_n laodicea_n which_o name_n in_o the_o greek_a signify_v as_o much_o as_o commandress_n princess_n or_o dictatrix_n of_o the_o people_n the_o nature_n and_o disposition_n of_o this_o church_n be_v somewhat_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o her_o name_n she_o conceive_v herself_o to_o be_v a_o glorious_a church_n a_o princess_n among_o the_o rest_n of_o her_o sister_n church_n for_o so_o in_o vers_n 17._o she_o vaunt_v herself_o to_o be_v rich_a to_o be_v increase_v with_o good_n and_o to_o want_v nothing_o but_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n bring_v she_o to_o the_o trial_n she_o be_v find_v wretched_a miserable_a poor_a blind_a and_o naked_a hence_o by_o the_o way_n note_v observe_v that_o god_n do_v often_o in_o his_o providence_n ordain_v name_n to_o person_n and_o place_n suitable_a and_o well_o comport_v with_o their_o natural_a disposition_n and_o quality_n christ_n be_v call_v jesus_n because_o he_o be_v the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n joshua_n have_v a_o name_n also_o from_o the_o same_o root_n he_o be_v also_o a_o temporal_a saviour_n unto_o israel_n lead_v they_o into_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n save_v and_o deliver_v they_o from_o the_o hand_n and_o fury_n of_o the_o canaanite_n the_o ancient_a inhabitant_n of_o the_o holy_a land_n many_o example_n be_v find_v of_o the_o like_a kind_n as_o john_n who_o name_n and_o nature_n both_o be_v gracious_a chrysostome_n he_o be_v a_o eloquent_a golden_a mouth_a father_n and_o he_o have_v a_o name_n suitable_a to_o his_o nature_n many_o more_o of_o the_o like_a kind_n will_v offer_v themselves_o to_o the_o observant_a eye_n but_o these_o shall_v suffice_v 2._o for_o place_n and_o church_n rome_n be_v call_v roma_n from_o romulus_n from_o some_o old_a word_n of_o the_o like_a sound_n which_o signify_v strength_n babylon_n from_o babel_n confusion_n philadelphia_n have_v a_o belove_a name_n and_o she_o be_v a_o belove_a church_n laodicea_n have_v a_o vainglorious_a name_n and_o she_o be_v a_o vainglorious_a church_n much_o boast_n of_o her_o spiritual_a riches_n while_o miserable_a poor_a and_o naked_a these_o thing_n say_v the_o amen_o etc._n etc._n christ_n be_v here_o describe_v under_o a_o threefold_a property_n 1._o as_o the_o amen_o 2._o as_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n 3._o as_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n these_o three_o property_n be_v take_v out_o of_o the_o general_a description_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o preliminary_n epistle_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n in_o the_o first_o chapter_n first_o he_o be_v call_v the_o amen_o out_o of_o the_o eighteen_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n to_o denote_v unto_o we_o observe_v that_o what_o christ_n promise_v and_o predict_v in_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n must_v sure_o come_v to_o pass_v and_o that_o the_o truth_n hereof_o may_v not_o fail_v he_o add_v another_o property_n take_v out_o of_o chap._n 1._o v._n 5._o he_o be_v the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n now_o what_o this_o amen_o have_v promise_v predict_v and_o say_v in_o these_o prophecy_n must_v
needs_o be_v sure_a and_o firm_a for_o in_o he_o according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1.20_o be_v all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n yea_o and_o amen_o and_o that_o he_o may_v get_v the_o better_a faith_n and_o credence_n thereunto_o he_o add_v another_o title_n the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n paul_n can_v public_o profess_v that_o he_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n to_o his_o discsple_n and_o that_o he_o have_v hide_v nothing_o back_o that_o do_v necessary_o conduce_v to_o their_o salvation_n and_o think_v you_o that_o christ_n in_o these_o revelation_n have_v not_o deal_v as_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n who_o be_v the_o god_n of_o all_o truth_n himself_o o_o you_o of_o little_a faith_n that_o will_v not_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o prophecy_n the_o downfall_n of_o the_o beast_n babylon_n and_o the_o whore_n together_o with_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o witness_n and_o the_o church_n glorious_a restore_v state_n on_o earth_n before_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o be_v clear_o and_o full_o assert_v and_o evidence_v from_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n have_v not_o christ_n promise_v it_o that_o be_v the_o amen_o in_o who_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o and_o come_v from_o he_o that_o be_v the_o true_a and_o faithful_a witness_n that_o can_v never_o fail_v and_o to_o take_v off_o all_o suspicion_n of_o failure_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o prophecy_n there_o be_v a_o three_o property_n here_o add_v the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n this_o have_v relation_n to_o that_o description_n of_o christ_n in_o chap._n 1._o v._n 8._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o may_v be_v render_v either_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n or_o the_o principality_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n for_o christ_n be_v both_o the_o begin_n of_o all_o creature_n for_o by_o he_o all_o thing_n be_v make_v and_o without_o he_o nothing_o be_v make_v and_o he_o be_v also_o the_o supreme_a prince_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o creation_n for_o so_o it_o necessary_o follow_v that_o all_o thing_n shall_v be_v subject_a to_o his_o principality_n and_o government_n who_o do_v at_o first_o create_v they_o and_o give_v a_o be_v to_o they_o therefore_o to_o shut_v up_o this_o the_o say_n of_o these_o prophecy_n in_o this_o book_n must_v needs_o be_v sure_a and_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o their_o appoint_a season_n see_v the_o amen_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n and_o the_o creator_n preserver_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o creation_n have_v say_v and_o speak_v they_o who_o will_v not_o then_o believe_v they_o come_v first_o from_o so_o faithful_a and_o true_a a_o witness_n and_o from_o one_o who_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o prince_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n and_o therefore_o most_o able_a to_o perform_v they_o verse_n 15._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n as_o she_o come_v last_o in_o place_n so_o she_o come_v last_o in_o spiritual_a grace_n of_o all_o her_o sister_n church_n christ_n find_v nothing_o in_o she_o that_o be_v true_o commendable_a even_o in_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o pergamus_n though_o as_o good_a as_o dead_a and_o mix_v with_o much_o corruption_n yet_o there_o be_v find_v in_o they_o somewhat_o praiseworthy_a some_o undefiled_a name_n that_o be_v not_o carry_v aside_o by_o the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezebel_n but_o in_o laodicea_n nothing_o be_v find_v commendable_a and_o therefore_o she_o hear_v of_o nothing_o from_o christ_n but_o matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o of_o the_o desperateness_n of_o her_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n doubtless_o there_o be_v some_o sincere_a faithful_a witness_n in_o this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n notwithstanding_o the_o spirit_n be_v silence_n in_o it_o or_o else_o she_o can_v not_o be_v proper_o number_v as_o one_o of_o the_o golden_a candlestick_n or_o as_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n their_o number_n be_v but_o small_a they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o give_v a_o denomination_n unto_o the_o whole_a for_o indeed_o a_o body_n politic_a whither_o civil_a or_o spiritual_a be_v to_o be_v denominate_v sound_n or_o unsound_a from_o the_o major_a part_n as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o particular_a soul_n or_o person_n if_o grace_n be_v more_o prevalent_a in_o degree_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o sin_n and_o corruption_n it_o be_v to_o be_v term_v a_o sincere_a gracious_a soul_n but_o if_o sin_n be_v most_o prevalent_a it_o may_v be_v just_o term_v a_o sinful_a and_o unregenerate_a soul_n so_o be_v the_o case_n of_o political_a church_n if_o their_o frame_n constitution_n and_o matter_n be_v most_o unsound_a and_o corrupt_a such_o church_n be_v not_o to_o be_v denominate_v sound_n healthful_a body_n we_o be_v not_o to_o call_v darkness_n light_n or_o light_a darkness_n though_o for_o their_o profession_n of_o their_o faith_n they_o be_v call_v church_n of_o christ_n yet_o for_o the_o deadness_n thereof_o they_o may_v with_o sardis_n be_v right_o term_v dead_a one_o yea_o twice_o dead_a and_o to_o be_v pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n doubtless_o under_o prelacy_n both_o english_a and_o romish_a there_o be_v and_o be_v diverse_a precious_a christian_n and_o saint_n of_o christ_n as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elijah_n when_o the_o idol_n of_o baal_n and_o his_o worship_n and_o the_o priest_n thereof_o be_v exalt_v yet_o then_o in_o that_o corrupt_a state_n of_o israel_n there_o be_v seven_o thousand_o that_o bowâ—d_v not_o the_o knee_n to_o baal_n yet_o they_o few_o faithful_a one_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elijah_n or_o those_o in_o the_o day_n of_o prelacy_n etc._n etc._n popery_n come_v far_o short_a to_o denominate_v israel_n at_o that_o time_n or_o our_o english_a or_o foreign_a nation_n under_o that_o corrupt_a frame_n or_o temper_n of_o antichristian_a prelacy_n to_o be_v praiseworthy_a church_n or_o sound_n sincere_a and_o healthful_a in_o their_o general_a matter_n frame_n or_o constitution_n but_o to_o return_v to_o the_o charge_n against_o laodicea_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a laodicea_n be_v of_o a_o strange_a mongrel_n composure_n and_o temper_n neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a mould_v and_o compact_v as_o a_o certain_a odd_a extraction_n of_o two_o contrary_n cold_a and_o heat_n i_o think_v before_o this_o that_o that_o maxim_n be_v in_o all_o thing_n unquestionable_a in_o medio_fw-la consistit_fw-la virtus_fw-la it_o seem_v true_a religion_n will_v not_o admit_v of_o that_o principle_n for_o laodicea_n be_v here_o blame_v to_o be_v in_o the_o mean_a that_o be_v in_o a_o frame_n or_o temper_v which_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a by_o hot_a be_v here_o understand_v one_o that_o be_v zealous_a fervent_a in_o spirit_n for_o the_o truth_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n that_o can_v endure_v any_o corruption_n will-worship_n or_o superstition_n shall_v be_v admit_v in_o the_o true_a christian_n worship_n and_o religion_n and_o such_o a_o one_o be_v call_v a_o hot_a fervent_a or_o zealous_a christian_n and_o this_o can_v never_o be_v too_o intense_a as_o unto_o the_o degree_n thereof_o if_o it_o be_v considerate_a and_o according_a to_o sound_a knowledge_n the_o ignorant_a inconsiderate_a zeal_n be_v reprove_v and_o condemn_v as_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a not_o the_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n it_o be_v not_o with_o god_n grace_n as_o with_o moral_a habit_n of_o virtue_n wherein_o both_o the_o extreme_n stray_v from_o mediocrity_n either_o in_o the_o excess_n or_o in_o the_o defect_n be_v fault_n and_o vice_n as_o the_o excess_n of_o liberality_n may_v run_v into_o prodigality_n and_o the_o defect_n into_o covetous_a parsimony_n or_o the_o excess_n in_o fortitude_n may_v be_v call_v temerity_n and_o fool-hardiness_n and_o the_o defect_n cowardice_n and_o pusilanimity_n and_o so_o in_o the_o rest_n but_o in_o gracious_a habit_n the_o case_n be_v different_a soul_n can_v exceed_v therein_o be_v you_o holy_a as_o your_o heavenly_a father_n be_v holy_a no_o less_o than_o a_o aim_n unto_o perfection_n will_v serve_v turn_n be_v zealous_a fervent_a boil_a hot_a for_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n it_o be_v sound_a and_o considerate_a it_o will_v admit_v of_o no_o mediocrity_n lukewarmness_n or_o half_a friend_n to_o god_n and_o his_o way_n be_v equal_o a_o abomination_n in_o god_n sight_n for_o he_o require_v the_o whole_a heart_n as_o be_v coldness_n or_o deadness_n itself_o and_o therefore_o this_o strange_a commixture_n of_o temper_n in_o laodicea_n be_v explode_v by_o christ_n as_o most_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a and_o therefore_o add_v i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a hence_o note_v observe_v a_o lukewarm_a temper_n among_o
mouth_n for_o this_o their_o sin_n have_v not_o god_n do_v the_o very_a same_o thing_n with_o we_o here_o in_o england_n here_o of_o late_a for_o this_o hermaphrodical_a religion_n that_o be_v profess_v among_o we_o half_a popish_a half_o reform_v half_o rot_v half_a sound_n even_o spew_v it_o out_o root_n and_o branch_n never_o to_o be_v lick_v up_o more_o be_v it_o not_o also_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o same_o mongrel_n lukewarm_a condition_n be_v creep_v in_o upon_o we_o again_o what_o mean_v else_o the_o many_o vindication_n that_o be_v set_v forth_o of_o late_a of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o their_o practice_n doctrine_n mission_n call_v hyerarchical_a superintendency_n national_a church_n and_o maintenancy_n and_o the_o like_a if_o christ_n have_v vomit_v they_o out_o as_o unholy_a thing_n he_o will_v not_o return_v again_o to_o take_v they_o up_o they_o be_v loathe_v of_o he_o for_o their_o mongrel_n temper_n and_o therefore_o spew_v out_o and_o if_o you_o will_v know_v who_o they_o be_v that_o endeavour_n to_o lick_v they_o up_o again_o they_o be_v dog_n i_o mean_v whelp_n of_o rome_n that_o desire_v to_o return_v to_o their_o vomit_n they_o be_v sow_n i_o mean_v unclean_a worldling_n that_o make_v their_o belly_n their_o god_n that_o desire_v to_o return_v to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n of_o antichristian_a foolery_n i_o shall_v say_v no_o more_o but_o this_o if_o reformation_n according_a to_o gospel_n pattern_n be_v the_o way_n be_v zealous_a in_o it_o burn_v in_o it_o walk_v in_o it_o stout_o courageous_o as_o child_n of_o light_n but_o if_o rome_n be_v the_o way_n to_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n take_v her_o mark_n follow_v she_o and_o be_v not_o ashamed_a of_o she_o for_o christ_n will_v not_o endure_v a_o middle_a temperature_n between_o both_o either_o be_v all_o romish_a or_o all_o reform_a there_o be_v no_o medium_n between_o heaven_n and_o hell_n neither_o between_o true_a christian_n and_o antichristian_a either_o be_v the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o for_o because_o thou_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a it_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v to_o thou_o as_o it_o do_v to_o laodicea_n christ_n will_v spew_v thou_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n be_v wise_a therefore_o you_o child_n of_o light_n hold_v fast_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v you_o free_a have_v not_o your_o face_n or_o thought_n towards_o the_o onion_n and_o flesh_n pot_n of_o egypt_n again_o but_o let_v your_o face_n be_v to_o zion-ward_n to_o build_v up_o the_o breach_n thereof_o and_o be_v hot_a zealous_a fervent_a therein_o and_o that_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o then_o doubtless_o god_n will_v be_v with_o you_o and_o lead_v you_o into_o goshen_n into_o a_o land_n of_o peace_n and_o rest_n verse_n 17._o because_o thou_o say_v i_o be_o rich_a and_o increase_v with_o good_n and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o and_o know_v not_o that_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a and_o poor_a and_o blind_a and_o naked_a laodiceas_fw-la sin_n of_o lukewarmness_n have_v a_o twofold_a ground_n or_o rise_v 1._o proceed_v from_o a_o false_a persuasion_n of_o her_o own_o worthiness_n 2._o from_o the_o ignorance_n of_o her_o own_o misery_n her_o vain_a persuasion_n of_o her_o own_o worth_n proceed_v from_o the_o consideration_n and_o conceit_n of_o her_o great_a wealth_n and_o riches_n not_o only_o spiritual_a which_o she_o want_v and_o christ_n advise_v she_o to_o buy_v of_o he_o in_o the_o next_o verse_n but_o temporal_a and_o worldly_a she_o boast_v herself_o not_o only_o to_o be_v rich_a and_o abound_v in_o riches_n of_o both_o sort_n but_o also_o to_o want_v nothing_o she_o have_v such_o a_o fullness_n that_o her_o contentation_n be_v complete_a many_o person_n may_v abound_v and_o be_v rich_a and_o yet_o want_v much_o of_o fullness_n of_o satisfaction_n and_o contentation_n but_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n it_o seem_v abound_v to_o contentation_n in_o her_o own_o conceit_n which_o be_v the_o high_a pitch_n of_o riches_n for_o she_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o and_o hence_o grow_v that_o sin_n of_o she_o lukewarmness_n and_o half_a christianity_n from_o hence_o note_n observe_v 1._o that_o the_o most_o rich_a and_o abound_a wealthy_a church_n be_v apt_a to_o become_v the_o more_o remiss_a moderate_a indifferent_a and_o lukewarm_a christian_n in_o the_o primitive_a time_n when_o the_o church_n be_v poor_a and_o low_a in_o the_o world_n they_o be_v pure_a more_o zealous_a and_o eminent_a for_o truth_n and_o martyrdom_n but_o when_o the_o church_n be_v indulge_v and_o lull_v in_o the_o lap_n of_o constantine_n the_o great_a she_o grow_v more_o remiss_a and_o as_o riches_n and_o preferment_n be_v heap_v on_o she_o she_o grow_v daily_o more_o lukewarm_a till_o at_o the_o last_o she_o become_v key-cold_a as_o unto_o the_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v in_o jesus_n and_o so_o short_o become_v pure_o antichristian_a when_o the_o great_a preferment_n of_o episcopal_a lordship_n deanery_n arch-deanries_a prebendary_n etc._n etc._n be_v on_o foot_n among_o we_o christ_n pastor_n become_v silken_a priest_n and_o where_o be_v then_o true_a zeal_n for_o the_o truth_n that_o be_v drive_v into_o corner_n among_o some_o poor_a puritan_n brownist_n anabaptist_n so_o scornful_o call_v and_o the_o like_a but_o for_o the_o rest_n they_o be_v but_o half_a christian_n a_o medley_n of_o moral_a civilian_o half_a romish_a half_o reform_v and_o this_o proceed_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o riches_n and_o prosperity_n which_o be_v apt_a to_o choke_v the_o seed_n of_o grace_n than_o adversity_n and_o to_o bring_v a_o forgetfulness_n of_o god_n and_o a_o lukewarmness_n upon_o the_o heart_n of_o those_o that_o do_v abound_v therein_o and_o therefore_o the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v so_o often_o warn_v in_o the_o word_n that_o they_o take_v heed_n to_o themselves_o lest_o when_o they_o be_v full_a and_o cloy_v with_o god_n blessing_n through_o over-fulness_n they_o shall_v forget_v the_o lord_n thou_o say_v thou_o be_v rich_a etc._n etc._n and_o know_v not_o that_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a etc._n etc._n the_o other_o cause_n of_o laodiceas_n sin_n be_v the_o ignorance_n of_o her_o misery_n which_o she_o can_v not_o see_v and_o perceive_v by_o reason_n she_o be_v blind_v by_o her_o outward_a prosperity_n and_o riches_n from_o whence_o observe_v observe_v 2._o that_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o wretched_o miserable_a church_n be_v the_o most_o boast_a and_o high_a pretend_v to_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o grace_n do_v not_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n this_o day_n vaunt_v that_o she_o be_v the_o only_a rich_a one_o increase_v with_o good_n and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o and_o it_o be_v true_a if_o she_o only_o mean_v of_o worldly_a good_n she_o be_v most_o pompous_a and_o replete_a therein_o but_o that_o be_v not_o all_o she_o vaunt_v too_o of_o her_o spiritual_a riches_n she_o call_v herself_o roma_n sancta_fw-la the_o only_a mother_n church_n the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n and_o no_o salvation_n without_o her_o pale_n the_o only_a keeper_n of_o the_o treasure_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o dispense_v they_o where_o she_o please_v and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o this_o high_a claim_n and_o pretence_n who_o more_o true_o wretched_a miserable_a blind_a ignorant_a naked_a and_o destitute_a of_o all_o true_a grace_n than_o she_o laodicea_n be_v so_o vainglorious_a that_o she_o can_v boast_v of_o her_o riches_n and_o yet_o she_o be_v the_o poor_a of_o the_o seven_o of_o all_o the_o reform_a church_n our_o english_a under_o episcopacy_n be_v wont_a to_o bear_v the_o bell_n for_o outward_a splendour_n and_o glory_v not_o only_o in_o her_o external_a riches_n but_o also_o of_o the_o magnificence_n of_o her_o worship_n beyond_o all_o other_o and_o yet_o among_o they_o all_o who_o near_o and_o dear_a to_o her_o sister_n rome_n then_o she_o she_o be_v then_o look_v upon_o as_o the_o first_o return_v daughter_n to_o her_o mother_n harlot_n as_o the_o apostate_n bayly_n in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o reader_n of_o his_o book_n call_v end_n to_o controversy_n testify_v page_n 67._o where_o he_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o difference_n between_o they_o but_o that_o the_o taper_n upon_o their_o altar_n want_v light_a and_o their_o altar_n priest_n and_o their_o ceremony_n purpose_n but_o the_o lord_n since_o have_v make_v a_o wide_a breach_n his_o name_n be_v praise_v for_o it_o and_o render_v she_o more_o irreconcilable_a to_o rome_n then_o ever_o heretofore_o and_o we_o trust_v never_o more_o to_o be_v make_v up_o between_o they_o for_o further_o describe_v the_o wretchedness_n of_o the_o high_o pretend_v church_n of_o rome_n which_o may_v be_v true_o parallel_v to_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n in_o this_o particular_a of_o vain-glorying_a and_o boast_a she_o have_v here_o five_o degree_n ascribe_v to_o she_o the_o two_o first_o be_v as_o common_a
affection_n or_o accident_n of_o her_o disease_n in_o respect_n of_o herself_o or_o of_o other_o she_o be_v in_o a_o pitiful_a lamentable_a and_o miserable_a state_n and_o condition_n the_o three_o latter_a declare_v the_o very_a nature_n of_o her_o disease_n she_o be_v poor_a blind_a and_o naked_a you_o know_v to_o be_v poor_a be_v to_o be_v beggarly_a so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o greek_a signify_v a_o beggar_n she_o be_v not_o poor_a in_o spirit_n and_o in_o she_o own_o eye_n which_o be_v a_o bless_a poverty_n mat._n 5.3_o but_o she_o be_v a_o poor_a beggarly_a miserable_a one_o one_o that_o be_v proud_a and_o beggarly_a which_o be_v hateful_a odious_a she_o be_v a_o true_a beggar_n beg_v she_o will_v and_o never_o leave_v beg_v of_o the_o king_n prince_n nobles_z and_o potentate_n of_o the_o world_n till_o she_o have_v get_v the_o choice_a fat_a thing_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o become_v her_o patrimony_n she_o be_v a_o stout_a sturdy_a beggar_n if_o you_o will_v not_o give_v she_o will_v take_v beggar_n lie_v in_o the_o cross_a lane_n and_o highway_n to_o beg_v of_o all_o they_o meet_v so_o beggar_n of_o this_o rampant_a church_n lie_v close_o to_o all_o great_a assembly_n to_o diet_n parliament_n counsel-table_n great_a man_n house_n to_o beg_v the_o advowsons_n and_o to_o catch_v the_o scrap_n of_o preferment_n that_o fall_v in_o their_o way_n i_o can_v wish_v there_o be_v none_o of_o this_o beggarly_a poverty_n among_o we_o at_o this_o day_n christ_n true_a minister_n shall_v be_v of_o a_o noble_a temper_n and_o spirit_n then_o to_o serve_v at_o table_n for_o lucre_n sake_n their_o master_n will_v provide_v for_o they_o in_o a_o more_o honourable_a way_n if_o they_o can_v but_o trust_v on_o he_o for_o their_o sustentation_n and_o livelihood_n it_o be_v a_o wise_a observation_n of_o m._n brightman_n concern_v our_o english_a clergy_n in_o his_o day_n under_o episcopacy_n that_o the_o angel_n of_o england_n in_o plain_a term_n grow_v wealthy_a by_o beg_v and_o as_o he_o further_o say_v neither_o be_v he_o in_o very_a truth_n nor_o be_v to_o be_v call_v aught_o save_o my_o lord_n beggar_n in_o the_o next_o place_n blindness_n be_v add_v to_o her_o beggarliness_n to_o make_v it_o the_o more_o grievous_a a_o blind_a beggar_n be_v the_o most_o deplore_a and_o miserable_a of_o all_o beggar_n for_o be_v necessitate_v to_o seek_v and_o beg_v for_o his_o live_n abroad_o yet_o want_v of_o sight_n will_v not_o let_v he_o seek_v so_o blindness_n of_o mind_n want_v of_o true_a spiritual_a understanding_n where_o true_a riches_n lie_v be_v a_o great_a addition_n of_o misery_n to_o a_o poor_a beggarly_a church_n that_o make_v she_o to_o seek_v amiss_o and_o to_o call_v that_o riches_n which_o be_v not_o true_o riches_n from_o this_o ignorance_n and_o blindness_n it_o proceed_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o other_o that_o follow_v her_o step_n do_v beg_v and_o seek_v greedy_o after_o riches_n honour_n and_o preferment_n that_o be_v mere_o transitory_a and_o vain_a and_o leave_v alone_o the_o true_a riches_n the_o treasure_n which_o be_v from_o above_o that_o never_o perish_v yea_o they_o be_v so_o blind_a and_o obstinate_o blind_a that_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o strike_v at_o he_o that_o endeavour_v to_o convince_v they_o of_o blindness_n and_o to_o show_v they_o the_o way_n unto_o everlasting_a treasure_n in_o the_o last_o place_n there_o be_v add_v nakedness_n as_o a_o aggravation_n of_o the_o misery_n of_o this_o church_n when_o one_o be_v strip_v of_o his_o garment_n and_o render_v naked_a his_o shame_n be_v lay_v open_a to_o the_o view_n according_a to_o that_o of_o nahum_n 3.5_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a that_o she_o be_v a_o poor_a blind_a beggar_n but_o she_o be_v a_o naked_a blind_a beggar_n the_o most_o contemptible_a of_o all_o sort_n we_o have_v see_v the_o poverty_n the_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o christ_n have_v also_o discover_v her_o nakedness_n unto_o we_o we_o know_v her_o shame_n and_o wherein_o her_o secret_a abomination_n do_v consist_v it_o be_v in_o vain_a for_o she_o now_o to_o boast_v of_o her_o spiritual_a pomp_n and_o trumpery_n while_o christ_n have_v discover_v her_o skirt_n and_o show_v we_o that_o she_o be_v a_o beggarly_a one_o void_a of_o all_o true_a spiritual_a riches_n that_o she_o be_v a_o blind_a one_o ignorant_a of_o the_o way_n of_o true_a happiness_n that_o she_o be_v naked_a that_o be_v for_o want_v of_o spiritual_a garment_n about_o she_o she_o be_v leave_v open_a and_o bare_a to_o all_o shame_n and_o reproach_n that_o be_v cast_v against_o she_o for_o her_o deformity_n which_o be_v obvious_a to_o every_o spiritual_a discern_a eye_n o_o that_o god_n will_v make_v the_o reform_a church_n among_o we_o to_o discern_v between_o true_a riches_n and_o those_o which_o be_v not_o so_o but_o only_o in_o pretence_n that_o he_o will_v put_v a_o noble_a spirit_n into_o they_o than_o that_o of_o laodicea_n a_o beggarly_a poor_a one_o wait_v for_o the_o crumb_n of_o preferment_n at_o the_o table_n of_o the_o great_a one_o of_o the_o world_n be_v not_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n the_o lord_n and_o sovereign_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n and_o shall_v he_o provide_v for_o the_o raven_n and_o the_o lion_n whelp_n their_o meat_n in_o due_a season_n and_o will_v he_o forget_v the_o member_n of_o his_o own_o body_n god_n forbid_v oh_o christ_n which_o be_v the_o true_a light_n of_o the_o father_n anoint_v our_o eye_n with_o eyesalve_n that_o our_o blindness_n may_v be_v do_v away_o and_o discover_v our_o nakedness_n unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v seek_v unto_o thou_o for_o a_o cover_n for_o gold_n that_o be_v try_v and_o for_o a_o raiment_n that_o we_o may_v be_v clothe_v that_o our_o nakedness_n may_v not_o appear_v before_o thou_o to_o our_o utter_a shame_n and_o confusion_n amen_n verse_n 18._o i_o counsel_v thou_o to_o buy_v of_o i_o gold_n try_v in_o the_o fire_n that_o thou_o may_v be_v rich_a and_o white_a raiment_n that_o thou_o may_v be_v elothe_v and_o that_o the_o shame_n of_o thy_o nakedness_n do_v not_o appear_v and_o anoint_v thy_o eye_n with_o eyesalve_n that_o thou_o may_v see_v you_o have_v hitherto_o hear_v of_o laodiceas_n sin_n want_v and_o misery_n here_o follow_v her_o remedy_n proportionable_a to_o her_o disease_n here_o be_v gold_n not_o outward_a glitter_a or_o pretend_a gold_n but_o try_v gold_n offer_v to_o help_v she_o of_o her_o poverty_n here_o be_v white_a raiment_n a_o glorious_a raiment_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n offer_v to_o cover_v her_o shame_n and_o nakedness_n and_o here_o be_v eyesalve_n offer_v even_o true_a knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n from_o above_o that_o she_o may_v see_v the_o way_n unto_o everlasting_a happiness_n but_o to_o open_v the_o word_n a_o little_a more_o full_o i_o counsel_v thou_o it_o be_v christ_n that_o counsel_n and_o advise_v and_o who_o will_v not_o follow_v it_o the_o matter_n of_o his_o counsel_n be_v offer_v to_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n and_o unto_o we_o also_o if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o vainglorious_a yet_o beggarly_a condition_n as_o she_o be_v in_o for_o the_o word_n be_v not_o write_v only_o to_o they_o but_o to_o we_o for_o observe_v what_o the_o spirit_n often_o say_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n so_o the_o matter_n of_o christ_n counsel_n be_v as_o well_o unto_o we_o as_o unto_o laodicea_n and_o that_o threefold_a as_o the_o disease_n be_v threefold_a 1._o to_o buy_v gold_n try_a gold_n which_o be_v set_v against_o poverty_n 2._o white_a garment_n which_o be_v for_o a_o cover_n of_o her_o nakedness_n 3._o eyesalve_n which_o be_v a_o remedy_n for_o her_o blindness_n first_o by_o the_o way_n from_o the_o party_n counsel_v to_o buy_v he_o be_v the_o same_o from_o who_o it_o be_v buy_v i_o counsel_v thou_o to_o buy_v gold_n of_o i_o note_v observe_v that_o all_o true_a spiritual_a riches_n and_o grace_n be_v to_o be_v fetch_v from_o christ_n alone_o christ_n send_v we_o not_o to_o our_o own_o work_n or_o to_o his_o bless_a mother_n or_o to_o any_o other_o saint_n depart_v with_o so_o many_o ave_fw-la maria_n so_o many_o pater_fw-la noster_n or_o so_o many_o vow_n and_o pilgrimage_n to_o buy_v they_o at_o their_o hand_n but_o he_o tell_v we_o come_v buy_v they_o of_o i_o christ_n alone_o be_v the_o great_a dispenser_n of_o his_o father_n treasure_n all_o power_n be_v give_v into_o his_o hand_n and_o in_o vain_a to_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n or_o the_o treasure_n thereof_o but_o in_o by_z and_o through_o the_o son_n and_o it_o be_v most_o just_a it_o shall_v be_v so_o it_o be_v the_o purchase_n of_o his_o
god_n if_o we_o be_v not_o of_o his_o family_n he_o will_v leave_v we_o alone_o to_o run_v on_o in_o our_o own_o perverse_a way_n until_o destruction_n and_o hell_n overwhelm_v we_o be_v zealous_a therefore_o and_o repent_v what_o zeal_n be_v see_v former_o on_o the_o fifteen_o and_o sixteenth_o verse_n christ_n in_o the_o former_a verse_n prescribe_v the_o remedy_n to_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n for_o her_o disease_n and_o here_o he_o advise_v to_o the_o application_n of_o it_o be_v zealous_a be_v fervent_a be_v hot_a cast_v away_o thy_o half_a mongrel_n religion_n which_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a purge_v out_o o_o england_n thy_o romish_a leven_a that_o make_v thou_o hang_v even_o half_a way_n between_o heaven_n and_o hell_n between_o christ_n and_o antichrist_n be_v zealous_a and_o repent_v o_o laodicea_n cast_v out_o o_o england_n thy_o pretend_a riches_n honour_n and_o preferment_n which_o work_v a_o conceit_n in_o thou_o that_o thou_o be_v rich_a while_o thou_o be_v but_o beggarly_a and_o naked_a and_o buy_v gold_n try_v of_o the_o fire_n of_o christ_n and_o true_a honour_n from_o he_o and_o that_o white_a raiment_n of_o he_o righteousness_n and_o of_o his_o holy_a spouse_n in_o her_o external_a office_n and_o ordinance_n which_o will_v make_v thou_o true_o honourable_a beautiful_a rich_a and_o comely_a be_v zealous_a i_o say_v and_o fervent_a hot_a after_o those_o precious_a jewel_n and_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o repent_v of_o thy_o former_a folly_n and_o vain_a conceit_n and_o then_o thou_o will_v be_v wise_a to_o purpose_n and_o become_v as_o a_o lily_n among_o the_o thorn_n and_o the_o fair_a of_o all_o thy_o sister_n verse_n 20._o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o to_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o christ_n add_v here_o another_o motive_n to_o the_o poor_a blind_a laodicean_n to_o come_v unto_o he_o for_o gold_n for_o white_a raiment_n for_o eyesalve_n to_o supply_v all_o their_o want_n which_o be_v draw_v from_o his_o willingness_n and_o readiness_n to_o come_v in_o and_o converse_v with_o all_o such_o that_o be_v but_o willing_a to_o receive_v he_o and_o to_o close_v with_o he_o and_o therefore_o he_o tell_v they_o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n christ_n come_v as_o one_o desire_v to_o have_v entrance_n he_o knock_v first_o that_o they_o may_v know_v to_o who_o it_o be_v that_o they_o must_v open_v christ_n come_v in_o his_o first_o grace_n be_v irresistible_a and_o as_o the_o strong_a man_n dispossess_v satan_n and_o take_v possession_n of_o the_o house_n the_o soul_n by_o a_o spiritual_a force_n and_o overpower_v hand_n but_o if_o the_o soul_n after_o faith_n receive_v by_o its_o own_o sloth_n remissness_n or_o backslide_v shall_v shut_v the_o door_n or_o entrance_n thereof_o against_o the_o kindly_a operation_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o spirit_n christ_n be_v not_o oblige_v to_o break_v up_o the_o door_n of_o that_o heart_n again_o by_o violence_n as_o at_o his_o first_o come_v in_o unto_o it_o but_o will_v come_v and_o call_v and_o knock_v for_o entrance_n that_o be_v will_v wait_v with_o mercy_n with_o providence_n with_o precept_n command_n with_o exhortation_n and_o reproof_n that_o if_o possible_a to_o melt_v the_o stray_a and_o err_a soul_n into_o compunction_n and_o to_o open_v again_o unto_o he_o that_o the_o king_n of_o glory_n may_v enter_v in_o from_o which_o posture_n of_o christ_n observe_v observe_v that_o christ_n use_v all_o possible_a mean_n for_o the_o reclaim_n and_o regain_n err_a soul_n into_o the_o way_n of_o life_n he_o come_v as_o it_o be_v a_o supplicant_n at_o their_o door_n and_o desire_v they_o to_o give_v entrance_n to_o he_o he_o stand_v and_o knock_v he_o wait_v and_o wait_v long_o and_o call_v and_o call_v again_o by_o divers_a and_o various_a way_n of_o mercy_n and_o grace_n he_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n of_o his_o former_a love_a kindness_n and_o how_o ready_a he_o be_v to_o help_v they_o if_o they_o will_v but_o open_a to_o he_o and_o follow_v his_o direction_n and_o hearken_v to_o his_o voice_n sometime_o he_o shake_v his_o rod_n over_o they_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n and_o tell_v they_o as_o many_o as_o he_o love_v he_o rebuke_n and_o chasten_v sometime_o he_o invite_v they_o by_o mercy_n and_o gracious_a consideration_n to_o return_v unto_o he_o then_o again_o he_o take_v the_o terror_n of_o the_o law_n to_o make_v they_o see_v their_o danger_n if_o they_o continue_v obstinate_a unto_o his_o call_n and_o last_o he_o send_v his_o ambassador_n with_o precept_n upon_o precept_n and_o line_n upon_o line_n beseech_v in_o christ_n name_n the_o stray_a soul_n to_o return_v unto_o he_o christ_n will_v never_o be_v want_v to_o they_o unless_o they_o be_v want_v unto_o themselves_o quest_n but_o why_o do_v not_o christ_n himself_o use_v his_o force_n and_o open_v the_o door_n himself_o by_o his_o spirit_n power_n to_o these_o poor_a laodicean_n be_v not_o he_o the_o great_a key-bearer_n of_o david_n who_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o if_o he_o will_v but_o speak_v the_o word_n he_o need_v not_o stand_v knock_v at_o their_o door_n they_o will_v fly_v open_a to_o he_o that_o he_o may_v enter_v in_o i_o answer_v 1._o it_o be_v true_a at_o christ_n first_o enter_v into_o the_o soul_n our_o base_a nature_n be_v so_o resistable_a and_o abhorrent_n to_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n that_o he_o must_v come_v by_o force_n by_o a_o spiritual_a force_n with_o his_o key_n of_o david_n to_o unlock_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n if_o he_o will_v have_v a_o entrance_n thereinto_o but_o second_o have_v first_o shed_v abroad_o his_o first_o grace_n into_o our_o heart_n than_o he_o command_v we_o to_o work_v in_o the_o power_n of_o that_o grace_n to_o work_v out_o our_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a have_v receive_v the_o promise_n say_v the_o apostle_n cleanse_v yourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o and_o christ_n put_v we_o then_o upon_o do_v that_o we_o may_v stir_v up_o our_o grace_n improve_v our_o talent_n and_o become_v active_a grow_a and_o fruitful_a christian_n and_o on_o this_o account_n christ_n here_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n and_o bid_v she_o to_o hearken_v to_o his_o voice_n and_z ro_o open_v to_o he_o she_o have_v receive_v the_o first_o grace_n of_o faith_n from_o christ_n or_o else_o she_o can_v not_o be_v number_v among_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n though_o she_o be_v a_o sad_a disorderly_a and_o rusty_a one_o yet_o she_o be_v a_o church_n of_o christ_n still_o and_o therefore_o may_v very_o well_o be_v command_v to_o set_v her_o power_n and_o grace_v a_o work_n to_o open_v unto_o christ_n the_o operation_n of_o who_o spirit_n she_o have_v shut_v out_o and_o quench_v by_o her_o uneven_a carriage_n and_o lukewarm_a temper_n three_o and_o in_o the_o last_o place_n know_v that_o laodicea_n have_v not_o quite_o shut_v the_o door_n to_o christ_n as_o unto_o the_o operation_n of_o his_o grace_n she_o be_v a_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o a_o lukewarm_a one_o but_o she_o have_v shut_v the_o door_n and_o deny_v he_o passage_n in_o some_o of_o his_o ordinance_n by_o which_o christ_n usual_o and_o ordinary_o enter_v she_o have_v shut_v the_o door_n unto_o a_o true_a spiritual_a ministry_n discipline_n orderly_o call_v and_o regular_a dispense_n of_o his_o ordinance_n and_o instead_o thereof_o entertain_v a_o formal_a lazy_a indifferent_a lukewarm_a ministry_n state-discipline_n officer_n and_o call_v and_o so_o all_o ordinance_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o scantling_n of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n not_o of_o god_n or_o of_o christ_n and_o so_o make_v up_o a_o mongrel_n hermaphroditical_a worship_n part_n of_o god_n and_o part_n of_o man_n which_o indeed_o be_v pure_o neither_o god_n nor_o man_n and_o therefore_o a_o abomination_n both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n she_o have_v shut_v this_o door_n and_o way_n of_o entrance_n against_o christ_n as_o some_o of_o our_o church_n have_v do_v this_o day_n and_o therefore_o christ_n come_v and_o knock_v and_o how_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n and_o faithful_a witness_n and_o as_o john_n be_v send_v with_o a_o epistle_n in_o his_o hand_n to_o laodicea_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o delinquent_a asian_a church_n so_o christ_n send_v his_o faithful_a teacher_n and_o prophet_n with_o a_o burden_n in_o their_o mouth_n against_o all_o such_o false_a worship_n and_o doctrine_n to_o unshut_a the_o door_n if_o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o king_n of_o glory_n may_v enter_v in_o use_v from_o the_o discourse_v premise_n it_o plain_o appear_v that_o this_o scripture_n
stand_v little_a in_o stead_n unto_o the_o papist_n and_o their_o champion_n bellarmine_n in_o his_o book_n of_o grace_n and_o free_a will_n cap._n 1._o to_o maintain_v from_o hence_o their_o pelagian_a doctrine_n the_o power_n of_o man_n freewill_n before_o conversion_n unto_o faith_n and_o amendment_n for_o bellarmine_n therein_o triumphant_o interrogate_v be_v not_o he_o foolish_a that_o will_v knock_v at_o his_o neighbour_n door_n if_o he_o know_v for_o certain_a that_o there_o be_v no_o man_n within_o that_o can_v open_v it_o be_v true_a it_o be_v so_o but_o bellarmine_n for_o all_o his_o great_a learning_n herein_o be_v much_o mistake_v christ_n here_o knock_v at_o a_o door_n where_o there_o be_v one_o within_o that_o be_v able_a to_o open_v the_o party_n be_v only_o asleep_a he_o be_v not_o dead_a or_o quite_o depart_v from_o his_o house_n and_o therefore_o he_o knock_v and_o call_v unto_o he_o to_o awake_v and_o open_a unto_o he_o like_o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n 5.2_o she_o be_v asleep_a when_o her_o belove_a come_v and_o knock_v say_v open_v to_o i_o my_o sister_n my_o love_n my_o dove_n my_o undefiled_a so_o christ_n come_v to_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n vers_fw-la 2._o and_o bid_v she_o to_o awake_v and_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n that_o remain_v and_o command_v laodicea_n to_o open_v unto_o he_o who_o have_v a_o power_n and_o ability_n to_o open_v though_o it_o be_v grow_v weak_a and_o remiss_a and_o therefore_o have_v need_n of_o a_o knock_n a_o vigorous_a call_n to_o rouse_v she_o up_o unto_o her_o duty_n and_o therefore_o bellarmine_n be_v quite_o mistake_v when_o from_o hence_o he_o assert_n that_o christ_n bid_v the_o reprobate_a and_o unregenerate_a to_o open_v to_o he_o it_o be_v only_o a_o believe_a church_n a_o backslidden_a lukewarm_a believe_a church_n that_o he_o bid_v to_o rise_v up_o and_o open_v to_o he_o it_o be_v not_o one_o altogether_o dead_a but_o a_o sleepy_a careless_a lukewarm_a church_n that_o he_o stir_v up_o to_o this_o duty_n of_o open_v to_o he_o second_o i_o answer_v though_o it_o be_v grant_v bellarmine_n that_o christ_n sometime_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o reprobate_n and_o unregenerate_a person_n and_o call_v to_o open_v to_o he_o though_o they_o neither_o will_v or_o can_v open_v to_o he_o yet_o christ_n may_v do_v this_o as_o often_o he_o do_v without_o any_o impeachment_n to_o his_o wisdom_n he_o hereby_o show_v what_o their_o duty_n be_v and_o require_v it_o from_o they_o and_o just_o he_o may_v though_o they_o be_v not_o in_o a_o possibility_n to_o perform_v it_o they_o have_v forfeit_v and_o lose_v their_o ability_n by_o their_o own_o fault_n not_o only_o in_o their_o common_a parent_n the_o first_o adam_n but_o also_o by_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o step_n of_o disobedience_n with_o he_o and_o christ_n be_v not_o bind_v by_o any_o law_n to_o restore_v it_o again_o unto_o they_o and_o therefore_o christ_n in_o the_o last_o place_n do_v often_o call_v to_o open_v to_o he_o upon_o the_o very_a reprobate_a themselves_o as_o in_o a_o judiciary_n way_n for_o the_o aggravation_n of_o their_o condemnation_n upon_o their_o refusal_n according_a to_o that_o of_o john_n 15.22_o if_o i_o have_v not_o come_v and_o speak_v to_o they_o they_o have_v no_o sin_n but_o now_o they_o have_v no_o cloak_n for_o their_o sin_n thus_o much_o in_o answer_n to_o bellarmine_n and_o his_o doctrine_n of_o freewill_n and_o the_o power_n of_o the_o mere_o natural_a man_n in_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n and_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o be_v wrought_v by_o the_o spirit_n to_o be_v nourish_v by_o the_o spirit_n to_o be_v consummate_v and_o perfect_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n but_o to_o proceed_v if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o to_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v if_o any_o man_n will_v be_v obedient_a to_o the_o word_n of_o my_o mouth_n open_v the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n yield_v obedience_n to_o my_o many_o and_o earnest_a solicitation_n i_o will_v then_o come_v and_o dwell_v in_o that_o soul_n and_o impart_v myself_o unto_o he_o and_o sup_v with_o he_o that_o be_v communicate_v and_o have_v mutual_a fellowship_n with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o note_v hence_o observe_v 1._o that_o it_o be_v the_o saint_n high_a privilege_n to_o have_v fellowship_n with_o christ_n and_o he_o with_o they_o where_o there_o be_v those_o heavenly_a intercourse_n there_o be_v a_o heaven_n upon_o earth_n or_o earth_n ascend_v into_o heaven_n and_o heaven_n come_v down_o upon_o earth_n person_n hereby_o do_v become_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n i_o will_v come_v in_o to_o he_o say_v christ_n that_o be_v christ_n will_v dwell_v in_o he_o spiritual_o real_o operative_o by_o his_o grace_n and_o he_o shall_v dwell_v in_o i_o that_o be_v by_o faith_n and_o so_o such_o become_v and_o be_v make_v the_o son_n of_o god_n luke_n 19.5_o and_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o his_o holy_a nature_n be_v it_o not_o a_o great_a shame_n to_o our_o christian_n church_n to_o deny_v themselves_o this_o great_a privilege_n in_o not_o harken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n or_o open_v the_o door_n unto_o he_o it_o be_v true_a we_o be_v ready_a to_o hearken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o christ_n so_o far_o as_o stand_v with_o our_o interest_n that_o we_o may_v not_o be_v account_v heathen_n abroad_o in_o the_o world_n and_o indeed_o that_o be_v all_o if_o it_o will_v amount_v so_o far_o for_o the_o ordinance_n of_o preach_v be_v no_o distinguish_a ordinance_n go_v teach_v all_o nation_n and_o the_o ordinance_n of_o prayer_n and_o praise_n be_v but_o natural_a duty_n which_o all_o person_n in_o the_o world_n be_v bind_v unto_o as_o well_o as_o christian_n but_o where_o be_v the_o open_v the_o door_n to_o christ_n in_o his_o especial_a distinguish_a ordinance_n where_o be_v the_o mutual_a feast_n sup_v and_o communicate_v between_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n in_o his_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o the_o supper_n taste_v and_o feed_v on_o the_o several_a and_o various_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o member_n where_o be_v the_o improve_n of_o his_o discipline_n where_o be_v his_o garden_n enclose_v be_v not_o all_o like_a a_o forest_n or_o wilderness_n without_o any_o culture_n or_o hedge_n about_o they_o it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v some_o few_o garden_n who_o savoury_a spice_n and_o precious_a ointment_n do_v cast_v a_o sweet_a smell_a savour_n abroad_o but_o their_o tender_a grape_n be_v but_o weak_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v if_o god_n mercy_n prevent_v not_o that_o either_o the_o little_a fox_n will_v undermine_v they_o or_o the_o wild_a boar_n root_v they_o out_o i_o speak_v it_o according_a to_o my_o judgement_n and_o conscience_n that_o our_o contentation_n and_o sit_v satisfy_v under_o a_o formal_a and_o lukewarm_a preach_n and_o some_o other_o natural_a duty_n only_o will_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o provoke_v god_n to_o spew_v we_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n for_o our_o half_a way_n religion_n the_o one_o ought_v to_o be_v do_v and_o the_o other_o not_o leave_v undo_v we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o respect_n to_o the_o whole_a will_n of_o god_n not_o so_o far_o only_o as_o our_o carnal_a wisdom_n think_v sufficient_a and_o no_o far_o it_o be_v once_o and_o not_o long_o since_o a_o just_a complaint_n that_o common_a prayer_n and_o other_o church_n discipline_n and_o episcopal_a ruling_n have_v thrust_v out_o of_o door_n a_o true_a preach_n and_o divers_a other_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o christ_n but_o observe_v the_o change_n now_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o preach_v will_v silence_v and_o invalidate_v many_o other_o of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n and_o render_v they_o useless_a to_o we_o therefore_o we_o be_v to_o hearken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o god_n the_o whole_a voice_n of_o god_n and_o open_a to_o it_o if_o we_o expect_v christ_n to_o come_v in_o and_o to_o sup_v with_o we_o and_o we_o with_o he_o we_o be_v first_o to_o hearken_v to_o his_o word_n open_v the_o door_n to_o he_o of_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o preach_n thereof_o then_o we_o be_v to_o proceed_v and_o not_o sit_v still_o as_o those_o silly_a one_o that_o be_v ever_o learning_n and_o never_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o truth_n we_o be_v to_o go_v on_o to_o the_o work_n of_o perfection_n that_o be_v to_o walk_v in_o all_o the_o way_n and_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n which_o will_v build_v up_o our_o soul_n unto_o the_o measure_n of_o a_o perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n and_o make_v we_o wise_a indeed_o unto_o salvation_n last_o i_o conceive_v there_o be_v more_o in_o these_o word_n i_o
will_v give_v thou_o the_o heathen_a for_o thy_o inheritance_n and_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n for_o thy_o possession_n now_o this_o can_v with_o any_o reason_n be_v attribute_v to_o that_o kingdom_n which_o christ_n have_v as_o god_n with_o the_o father_n by_o right_a of_o creation_n in_o the_o first_o sense_n because_o it_o be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v in_o the_o cloud_n by_o the_o ancient_n of_o day_n long_o after_o the_o time_n of_o daniel_n pprophecy_n and_o christ_n have_v long_o before_o the_o time_n of_o daniel_n even_o from_o the_o beginning_n that_o natural_a kingdom_n of_o he_o as_o one_o with_o the_o father_n neither_o second_o can_v it_o be_v apply_v with_o any_o more_o show_v of_o reason_n to_o the_o spiritual_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n now_o under_o the_o gospel_n because_o how_o few_o of_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n and_o language_n do_v as_o much_o as_o own_v or_o profess_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v as_o some_o learned_a observe_v and_o that_o aright_o that_o not_o a_o ten_o part_n of_o all_o the_o nation_n and_o tongue_n in_o the_o world_n do_v as_o much_o as_o own_v or_o acknowledge_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o then_o again_o among_o those_o that_o profess_v christ_n how_o great_a a_o part_n thereof_o be_v apostate_n antichristian_n and_o even_o violent_a persecutor_n of_o the_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v in_o jesus_n yea_o again_o consider_v how_o few_o of_o those_o in_o the_o reform_a nation_n where_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n be_v in_o more_o clearness_n and_o light_n discover_v and_o preach_v be_v true_o sincere_a servant_n of_o christ_n submit_v with_o cheerfulness_n unto_o the_o sceptre_n of_o his_o righteousness_n own_v christ_n and_o godliness_n in_o the_o power_n thereof_o therefore_o sure_o this_o kingdom_n and_o happy_a period_n be_v yet_o to_o come_v as_o christ_n say_v john_n 18.36_o my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n that_o be_v of_o this_o present_a world_n but_o that_o that_o be_v to_o come_v after_o the_o resurrection_n and_o wherein_o dwell_v righteousness_n and_o be_v here_o promise_v as_o a_o reward_n to_o the_o overcome_a saint_n and_o for_o which_o we_o pray_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n thy_o kingdom_n come_v which_o will_v not_o be_v give_v by_o the_o ancient_n of_o day_n unto_o the_o son_n of_o man_n until_o he_o come_v in_o the_o cloud_n dan._n 7.13_o compare_v to_o rev._n 14.14_o last_o i_o shall_v add_v one_o humane_a testimony_n and_o i_o believe_v will_v not_o be_v the_o least_o with_o some_o and_o that_o be_v of_o our_o late_a assembly_n of_o divine_n in_o their_o annotation_n only_o on_o two_o scripture_n to_o prove_v the_o matter_n and_o substance_n i_o contend_v for_o to_o wit_n a_o more_o glorious_a triumphant_a state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o ultimate_a day_n of_o judgement_n first_o they_o in_o their_o new_a annotation_n on_o rev._n 5.10_o and_o we_o shall_v reign_v on_o earth_n confess_v that_o this_o may_v signify_v the_o prosperous_a time_n of_o the_o church_n under_o christian_n king_n and_o emperor_n dan._n 7.27_o psal_n 37.11_o the_o meek_a shall_v inherit_v the_o earth_n and_o on_o rev._n 2.25_o 26._o they_o say_v hold_v fast_o till_o i_o come_v signify_v till_o christ_n second_o come_v general_a or_o special_a power_n over_o the_o nation_n signify_v to_o join_v with_o christ_n in_o judge_v the_o nation_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o give_v the_o morning_n star_n signify_v christ_n give_v the_o full_a fruition_n of_o himself_o thus_o far_o they_o which_o be_v not_o yet_o fulfil_v in_o the_o full_a extent_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o yet_o to_o be_v accomplish_v in_o futurity_n but_o here_o by_o the_o way_n i_o shall_v take_v leave_n to_o show_v their_o great_a mistake_n that_o expect_v a_o triumphant_a state_n of_o the_o church_n or_o that_o christ_n reign_n or_o monarchy_n shall_v be_v set_v up_o in_o his_o church_n before_o christ_n second_o appearance_n in_o the_o cloud_n to_o accomplish_v this_o work_n this_o opinion_n be_v not_o a_o little_a dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a both_o unto_o the_o peace_n and_o quiet_a of_o the_o saint_n and_o unto_o all_o magistracy_n that_o such_o opinionist_n live_v under_o for_o once_o entertain_v the_o judgement_n that_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v now_o to_o be_v set_v up_o all_o other_o opposite_n and_o kingdom_n must_v down_o before_o it_o for_o who_o will_v count_v it_o a_o hard_a say_n or_o sinful_a to_o remove_v humane_a power_n and_o magistrate_n be_v they_o ever_o so_o just_a that_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o set_n up_o of_o the_o all-righteous_a sceptre_n of_o christ_n be_v it_o not_o on_o this_o very_a ground_n and_o principle_n that_o every_o party_n and_o faction_n that_o pretend_v high_a to_o christ_n have_v endeavour_v to_o set_v itself_o in_o the_o throne_n how_o be_v episcopacy_n dethrone_v but_o that_o presbytery_n think_v itself_o of_o divine_a right_n and_o up_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n must_v go_v with_o they_o whether_o prelacy_n or_o presbytery_n be_v of_o the_o divine_a or_o better_a size_n that_o be_v not_o the_o dispute_n but_o have_v once_o entertain_v the_o conceit_n that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n do_v consist_v in_o their_o geneva_n model_n and_o presbytery_n what_o nation_n be_v at_o peace_n among_o the_o reform_a before_o it_o be_v exalt_v and_o have_v the_o throne_n again_o this_o principle_n be_v again_o entertain_v by_o some_o other_o pretend_v to_o more_o holiness_n and_o truth_n than_o they_o o_o how_o they_o labour_v for_o a_o eruption_n like_o a_o inbred_a wind_n within_o the_o bowel_n of_o the_o earth_n never_o at_o rest_n till_o it_o set_v up_o its_o interest_n or_o its_o pretend_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n up_o at_o top_n be_v not_o this_o the_o very_a principle_n and_o fancy_n that_o carry_v on_o those_o irregular_a head_n of_o munster_n and_o john_n of_o leyden_n etc._n etc._n that_o make_v they_o dream_v of_o a_o new_a state_n come_v down_o among_o they_o from_o god_n when_o they_o be_v as_o weak_a frail_a and_o sinful_a as_o any_o other_o do_v not_o this_o excite_v they_o to_o contemn_v all_o power_n and_o magistracy_n whatsoever_o and_o to_o tread_v all_o under_o foot_n that_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o their_o new_a camaera_n and_o be_v not_o this_o again_o attempt_v and_o act_v by_o some_o in_o our_o day_n that_o have_v take_v up_o the_o same_o principle_n and_o who_o know_v where_o it_o will_v rest_v be_v once_o set_v on_o foot_n or_o work_v by_o a_o fiery_a irregular_a zeal_n judicious_a m._n hooker_n in_o his_o preface_n to_o his_o ecclesiastical_a policy_n though_o a_o episcopal_a man_n yet_o wise_o foresee_v the_o evil_a of_o this_o judgement_n and_o principle_n and_o give_v forewarn_v of_o the_o danger_n of_o it_o it_o do_v destroy_v episcopacy_n and_o it_o will_v destroy_v presbytery_n and_o all_o government_n whatsoever_o if_o it_o be_v not_o moderate_v and_o wise_o regulate_v by_o a_o overmastering_a spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o herein_o i_o hope_v i_o have_v do_v but_o my_o duty_n and_o discharge_v my_o conscience_n in_o show_v the_o false_a ground_n of_o many_o man_n miscarriage_n about_o the_o prosecution_n and_o attainment_n of_o this_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n which_o indeed_o will_v never_o be_v attain_v to_o in_o this_o infirm_a and_o corrupt_a generation_n which_o be_v partly_o spiritual_a and_o partly_o carnal_a and_o they_o that_o endeavour_v to_o set_v it_o up_o may_v just_o perish_v in_o the_o attempt_n be_v not_o call_v to_o it_o neither_o by_o god_n nor_o christ_n neither_o let_v any_o say_v hence_o that_o i_o contemn_v full_a and_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o reform_v of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o discipline_n of_o our_o church_n unto_o the_o primitive_a pattern_n this_o be_v all_o that_o be_v require_v at_o our_o hand_n when_o god_n open_v a_o door_n unto_o we_o unto_o this_o work_n it_o be_v not_o to_o set_v up_o the_o church_n triumphant_a before_o christ_n shall_v appear_v to_o be_v her_o captain_n and_o leader_n on_o which_o then_o will_v be_v with_o great_a power_n and_o might_n and_o none_o shall_v hinder_v we_o be_v now_o command_v to_o suffer_v and_o to_o overcome_v our_o temptation_n patient_o not_o to_o reign_v and_o triumph_n which_o be_v reserve_v as_o a_o reward_n of_o our_o patience_n unto_o another_o life_n he_o that_o thus_o overcome_v shall_v sit_v down_o with_o christ_n in_o his_o throne_n and_o reign_v with_o he_o while_o other_o may_v be_v shut_v out_o for_o their_o sin_n of_o rebellion_n and_o disobedience_n to_o the_o power_n they_o live_v under_o have_v show_v the_o danger_n of_o this_o false_a principle_n to_o wit_n a_o expectance_n to_o reign_v with_o christ_n at_o present_a let_v all_o wise_a christian_n shun_v it_o as_o a_o ruinous_a house_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o overwhelm_v all_o that_o
be_v under_o it_o and_o have_v pluck_v up_o the_o rot_a prop_n the_o build_n thereon_o must_v needs_o fall_v to_o ground_n and_o come_v to_o nought_o come_v tollitur_fw-la causa_fw-la tollitur_fw-la effectus_fw-la and_o instead_o of_o this_o break_a reed_n let_v the_o faithful_a soul_n comfort_n and_o support_v itself_o in_o patience_n with_o the_o hope_n of_o christ_n true_a and_o real_a kingdom_n wherewith_o john_n be_v affect_v and_o support_v rev._n 1.9_o which_o shall_v come_v in_o glory_n and_o great_a power_n and_o none_o shall_v say_v as_o now_o lo_o here_o be_v christ_n or_o there_o be_v christ_n but_o he_o shall_v be_v most_o evident_a and_o perspicuous_o glorious_a lo_o he_o come_v in_o the_o cloud_n and_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o and_o they_o that_o pierce_v he_o and_o every_o one_o shall_v mourn_v because_o of_o he_o v._o 7._o this_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o advance_v by_o any_o capricious_a whimsy_n of_o we_o but_o be_v bring_v to_o light_n in_o power_n and_o great_a majesty_n where_o christ_n come_v with_o his_o army_n and_o miriads_o of_o angel_n and_o raise_v saint_n rev._n 19.14_o &_o 20.4_o to_o take_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o himself_o when_o antichrist_n and_o all_o his_o adherent_n be_v destroy_v by_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n then_o shall_v they_o fly_v unto_o the_o rock_n and_o the_o mountain_n and_o call_v to_o they_o to_o fall_v upon_o they_o to_o hide_v they_o from_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lamb_n that_o sit_v on_o the_o throne_n and_o then_o all_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o god_n and_o his_o christ_n and_o he_o shall_v reign_v for_o ever_o and_o ever_o haleluia_o amen_o and_o for_o a_o conclusion_n of_o all_o let_v the_o faithful_a one_o of_o christ_n hearken_v to_o the_o often_o repeat_v admonition_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o last_o verse_n verse_n 22._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n he_o that_o be_v a_o understanding_n christian_n among_o you_o let_v he_o consider_v what_o grace_n the_o spirit_n have_v set_v forth_o to_o their_o imitation_n and_o approve_v of_o by_o various_a encouragement_n and_o promise_n of_o reward_n and_o what_o sin_n and_o fault_n he_o have_v reprove_v and_o menace_v with_o dreadful_a judgement_n in_o each_o and_o every_o one_o of_o those_o seven_o asian_a church_n that_o he_o may_v avoid_v the_o one_o and_o embrace_v the_o other_o that_o so_o his_o portion_n may_v fall_v in_o the_o land_n of_o the_o live_n what_o be_v write_v to_o they_o be_v write_v for_o our_o example_n and_o if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o their_o condition_n we_o shall_v receive_v our_o reward_n according_o for_o every_o one_o shall_v receive_v according_a to_o his_o work_n o_o lord_n christ_n that_o have_v move_v the_o heart_n of_o thy_o servant_n to_o make_v these_o thing_n know_v unto_o the_o child_n of_o man_n let_v he_o be_v a_o learner_n himself_o at_o the_o footstool_n of_o thy_o grace_n and_o bless_v be_v thy_o holy_a name_n that_o have_v go_v thus_o far_o with_o thy_o poor_a servant_n o_o let_v his_o own_o word_n be_v imprint_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n keep_v he_o humble_a lord_n that_o he_o be_v not_o lift_v up_o in_o his_o own_o eye_n lest_o while_o he_o come_v a_o teacher_n unto_o other_o he_o himself_o become_v a_o castaway_n o_o lord_n christ_n give_v thy_o servant_n power_n from_o thyself_o to_o overcome_v his_o temptation_n that_o he_o may_v sit_v with_o thou_o in_o thy_o throne_n even_o as_o thou_o have_v overcome_v and_o be_v set_v down_o in_o thy_o father_n throne_n pardon_v o_o christ_n not_o only_o the_o fault_n of_o this_o undertake_n but_o the_o many_o sin_n and_o error_n of_o all_o his_o life_n o_o cover_v he_o and_o they_o with_o thy_o white_a raiment_n and_o then_o he_o shall_v walk_v in_o white_a before_o thou_o and_o at_o thy_o appearance_n his_o nakedness_n shall_v not_o appear_v remember_v o_o lord_n thy_o church_n and_o people_n among_o we_o for_o good_a o_o let_v they_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n that_o thy_o name_n may_v be_v glorious_o exalt_v within_o our_o day_n that_o thy_o truth_n may_v run_v to_o and_o fro_o and_o be_v increase_v and_o that_o all_o be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o duty_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n that_o so_o we_o may_v have_v sweet_a smell_a garden_n holy_a assembly_n within_o our_o land_n where_o the_o lord_n may_v take_v delight_n to_o dwell_v in_o hear_v o_o lord_n thy_o poor_a servant_n for_o thy_o wont_a mercy_n sake_n in_o and_o through_o the_o son_n of_o thy_o own_o love_n to_o who_o with_o thyself_o and_o holy_a spirit_n one_o eternal_a everliving_a lord_n god_n be_v all_o glory_n dominion_n praise_n and_o power_n for_o ever_o and_o for_o ever_o amen_o δοξὰ_n μονῷ_n τῷ_n θεῷ_n finis_fw-la
earth_n shall_v wail_v because_o of_o he_o even_o so_o amen_n he_o come_v with_o cloud_n this_n be_v a_o graecism_n that_o be_v in_o the_o cloud_n this_o verse_n have_v a_o index_n or_o a_o asterisme_n before_o it_o behold_v to_o show_v that_o it_o be_v very_o remarkable_a what_o be_v here_o express_v be_v as_o the_o general_a proposition_n unto_o the_o whole_a revelation_n christ_n come_v in_o the_o cloud_n in_o power_n and_o glory_n to_o set_v up_o his_o kingdom_n here_o on_o earth_n before_o the_o ultimate_a judgement_n this_o have_v relation_n to_o zachary_n 12.10_o and_o promise_v in_o matth._n 26.64_o and_o 24.30_o and_o act_v 1.9_o etc._n etc._n several_a interpretation_n offer_v here_o to_o the_o consideration_n some_o will_v have_v it_o here_o mean_v that_o at_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n passion_n this_o scripture_n be_v fulfil_v in_o these_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o jew_n conversion_n in_o act_n 2._o that_o be_v the_o crucifyer_n of_o christ_n be_v prick_v to_o the_o heart_n because_o of_o he_o and_o of_o the_o evil_a by_o they_o do_v unto_o he_o and_o so_o mourn_v over_o he_o though_o indeed_o it_o be_v grant_v that_o that_o pprophecy_n in_o zach._n 12._o be_v partly_o fulfil_v in_o that_o of_o the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o jew_n conversion_n who_o true_o mourn_v for_o he_o who_o they_o have_v pierce_v john_n 19.37_o yet_o john_n here_o in_o this_o pprophecy_n and_o in_o this_o verse_n long_o after_o christ_n ascension_n reinforces_a and_o take_v up_o the_o same_o relation_n to_o be_v fulfil_v at_o christ_n second_o come_v in_o the_o cloud_n therefore_o that_o of_o zach._n 12._o be_v never_o complete_o accomplish_v to_o this_o day_n second_o these_o small_a number_n of_o the_o first_o effusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n after_o christ_n passion_n can_v with_o any_o sound_a reason_n answer_v that_o general_a and_o universal_a mourning_n promise_v of_o in_o zach._n 12._o where_o the_o several_a family_n of_o david_n of_o nathan_n of_o levi_n of_o simeon_n etc._n etc._n and_o all_o the_o family_n that_o remain_v shall_v all_o mourn_v apart_o or_o joint_o as_o they_o do_v at_o hadimmon_n in_o the_o valley_n of_o megiddon_n three_o that_o prophesy_v of_o zachary_n 12._o can_v not_o whole_o relate_v to_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n passion_n or_o little_o after_o because_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o fulfil_n of_o that_o pprophecy_n he_o will_v make_v the_o governor_n of_o judy_n like_o a_o hearth_n of_o fire_n in_o the_o wood_n and_o like_o a_o torch_n of_o fire_n in_o the_o sheaf_n and_o they_o shall_v devour_v all_o the_o people_n round_o about_o and_o the_o lord_n shall_v save_v the_o tent_n of_o judah_n etc._n etc._n ver_fw-la 6_o 7._o and_o that_o in_o ver_fw-la 8_o and_o 9_o god_n will_v in_o that_o day_n make_v the_o feeble_a of_o the_o house_n of_o judah_n as_o david_n for_o strength_n and_o of_o the_o house_n of_o david_n as_o the_o angel_n of_o god_n and_o that_o god_n will_v in_o that_o day_n seek_v to_o destroy_v all_o that_o come_v against_o jerusalem_n but_o in_o how_o contrary_a low_a and_o weak_a condition_n jerusalem_n and_o judah_n be_v in_o at_o the_o time_n about_o christ_n passion_n be_v then_o under_o the_o roman_a yoke_n and_o ever_o since_o have_v be_v under_o a_o miserable_a afflict_a estate_n as_o all_o history_n testify_v and_o how_o unsuitable_a such_o a_o condition_n be_v with_o the_o fulfil_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a pprophecy_n let_v the_o wise_a consider_v therefore_o sure_a this_o come_n of_o christ_n must_v be_v intend_v of_o his_o second_o come_v future_a to_o his_o ascension_n for_o he_o be_v ascend_v long_o before_o this_o revelation_n be_v give_v this_o same_o jesus_n which_o be_v take_v up_o from_o you_o into_o heaven_n shall_v so_o come_v in_o like_a manner_n as_o you_o have_v see_v he_o go_v into_o heaven_n act_n 1.11_o other_o again_o apply_v the_o time_n of_o this_o mourning_n and_o look_v upon_o christ_n who_o they_o have_v pierce_v whole_o to_o be_v the_o time_n of_o the_o last_o and_o ultimate_a judgement_n of_o the_o wicked_a when_o as_o they_o say_v all_o they_o that_o crucify_v he_o and_o all_o his_o enemy_n shall_v mourn_v and_o wayl_v for_o anguish_n and_o tremble_v before_o he_o but_o this_o can_v be_v the_o whole_a or_o main_a sense_n of_o the_o spirit_n herein_o nor_o altogether_o according_a to_o the_o time_n thereof_o for_o these_o reason_n first_o because_o this_o time_n or_o day_n of_o mourning_n be_v not_o of_o mourning_n to_o desperation_n as_o that_o ultimate_a mourning_n of_o the_o wicked_a be_v but_o it_o be_v a_o godly_a sorrow_n or_o mourning_n that_o lead_v unto_o repentance_n compare_v it_o to_o zach._n 12.10_o 11._o it_o be_v as_o one_o mourning_n for_o his_o only_a son_n or_o as_o that_o mourning_n be_v for_o good_a josiah_n slay_v at_o megiddo_n out_o of_o bowel_n of_o love_n and_o compassion_n not_o of_o horror_n and_o desperation_n as_o the_o former_a be_v 2._o another_o reason_n be_v because_o in_o this_o day_n of_o mourning_n there_o be_v promise_v that_o god_n will_v pour_v out_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n upon_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o judah_n and_o jerusalem_n zach._n 12.10_o unto_o which_o this_o verse_n do_v relate_v but_o in_o that_o day_n of_o god_n execute_v his_o last_o wrath_n on_o the_o wicked_a be_v no_o time_n of_o pour_v out_o of_o grace_n nor_o the_o spirit_n of_o supplication_n therefore_o to_o i_o it_o clear_o follow_v that_o see_v the_o prophet_n zach._n 12.10_o and_o john_n in_o this_o seven_o verse_n both_o pprophecy_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o personal_a appearance_n and_o come_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o cloud_n especial_o intend_v the_o conversion_n of_o the_o jew_n of_o they_o that_o pierce_v he_o and_o that_o before_o the_o ultimate_a judgement_n of_o all_o for_o then_o there_o be_v no_o time_n of_o repentance_n or_o conversion_n 3._o the_o three_o reason_n be_v from_o the_o word_n and_o all_o the_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v wail_v because_o of_o he_o even_o so_o amen_n if_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v here_o only_o that_o all_o the_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v see_v christ_n come_n and_o wail_v for_o dread_n or_o horror_n as_o the_o wicked_a at_o the_o ultimate_a judgement_n day_n than_o john_n will_v never_o set_v such_o a_o heavy_a amen_o to_o it_o so_o it_o shall_v be_v see_v himself_o and_o all_o the_o saint_n depart_v likewise_o do_v expect_v and_o rest_n in_o hope_n for_o the_o sight_n of_o this_o his_o second_o come_v unto_o their_o joy_n and_o comfort_n therefore_o the_o conclusion_n or_o observation_n that_o arise_v hence_o and_o as_o a_o right_a interpretation_n of_o this_o verse_n be_v observe_v that_o christ_n will_v appear_v again_o in_o the_o cloud_n to_o be_v see_v of_o all_o to_o the_o conversion_n of_o his_o ancient_a people_n the_o jew_n the_o destruction_n of_o all_o his_o enemy_n and_o the_o restauration_n of_o all_o thing_n before_o the_o end_n of_o all_o and_o this_o conclusion_n and_o interpretation_n flow_v from_o these_o ground_n or_o reason_n first_o from_o the_o very_a genuine_a sense_n of_o the_o word_n themselves_o in_o this_o verse_n every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o glorious_o come_v in_o the_o cloud_n as_o you_o have_v see_v he_o go_v so_o shall_v you_o see_v he_o come_v act_n 1.9_o we_o see_v he_o now_o by_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n in_o heaven_n but_o then_o by_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o body_n faith_n and_o sight_n be_v two_o distinct_a thing_n 2_o cor._n 5.7_o all_o do_v not_o now_o see_v he_o by_o faith_n but_o then_o all_o and_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o come_v in_o the_o cloud_n to_o perform_v a_o double_a work_n the_o one_o in_o a_o wonderful_a manner_n to_o cause_v the_o jew_n that_o pierce_v he_o to_o look_v on_o he_o and_o mourn_v even_o to_o a_o holy_a repentance_n who_o conversion_n will_v be_v so_o wonderful_a that_o it_o will_v be_v as_o a_o nation_n bear_v in_o one_o day_n isa_n 66.8_o and_o this_o be_v no_o more_o than_o be_v do_v former_o towards_o paul_n christ_n miraculous_o appear_v to_o his_o conversion_n and_o which_o he_o intimate_v must_v likewise_o follow_v afterward_o to_o israel_n in_o that_o that_o god_n show_v he_o this_o grace_n first_o second_o that_o all_o his_o obstinate_a enemy_n may_v look_v upon_o he_o and_o mourn_v and_o wail_v even_o to_o desperation_n for_o that_o their_o ruin_n and_o the_o day_n of_o god_n great_a wrath_n be_v come_v on_o they_o for_o it_o be_v the_o work_n of_o cnrist_n appearance_n not_o only_o to_o destroy_v all_o his_o anti-christian_n adversary_n 2_o thes_n 2.8_o 9_o but_o also_o to_o the_o joy_n comfort_n and_o exaltation_n of_o his_o church_n 2_o pet._n 5.4_o now_o this_o can_v be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o end_n of_o all_o and_o ultimate_a judgement_n
because_o this_o of_o christ_n come_v in_o the_o cloud_n here_o be_v set_v as_o the_o general_a result_n and_o the_o main_a proposition_n of_o the_o whole_a of_o the_o revelation_n wherein_o the_o great_a design_n be_v to_o set_v forth_o christ_n to_o come_v and_o the_o glorious_a estate_n of_o his_o church_n here_o on_o earth_n before_o the_o ultimate_a end_n as_o will_v appear_v hereafter_o to_o demonstrate_v this_o a_o little_a plain_o i_o set_v these_o query_n out_o of_o zach._n 12._o collate_v with_o this_o place_n and_o that_o of_o matth._n 24.30_o 1._o be_v ever_o judah_n or_o jerusalem_n since_o that_o prophecy_n make_v to_o her_o enemy_n a_o cup_n of_o tremble_v be_v she_o ever_o a_o burdensome_a stone_n to_o the_o whole_a earth_n to_o cut_v they_o in_o piece_n have_v ever_o the_o governor_n of_o judah_n be_v like_o a_o hearth_n of_o fire_n among_o the_o wood_n and_z and_z like_o a_o torch_n of_o fire_n in_o a_o sheaf_n devour_v all_o the_o people_n round_o about_o or_o be_v they_o ever_o since_o that_o prophecy_n of_o zachary_n in_o that_o strength_n that_o the_o feeble_a among_o they_o be_v as_o david_n and_o the_o house_n of_o david_n as_o elohim_n etc._n etc._n peruse_v the_o history_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o consider_v whether_o you_o can_v find_v the_o least_o accomplishment_n thereof_o i_o next_o quere_z when_o be_v ever_o that_o eminent_a effusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n pour_v out_o on_o the_o house_n of_o david_n and_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o they_o shall_v look_v on_o he_o who_o they_o have_v pierce_v and_o mourn_v for_o he_o with_o great_a bitterness_n each_o family_n mourn_v apart_o be_v this_o do_v at_o christ_n passion_n by_o the_o obstinate_a jew_n his_o crucifier_n they_o deride_v he_o or_o be_v this_o fulfil_v by_o the_o small_a number_n of_o the_o jew_n his_o disciple_n the_o eleven_o who_o flee_v at_o his_o suffering_n they_o do_v not_o pierce_v he_o or_o be_v this_o fulfil_v upon_o those_o mourner_n in_o act_n 2_o they_o see_v he_o not_o when_o they_o mourn_v nor_o with_o their_o family_n apart_o nor_o see_v he_o in_o the_o cloud_n and_o thereupon_o mourn_v for_o he_o and_o therefore_o as_o yet_o the_o main_a of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v to_o be_v fulfil_v last_o be_v this_o to_o be_v refer_v to_o the_o last_o resurrection_n or_o ultimate_a judgement_n i_o ask_v be_v that_o a_o day_n of_o repentance_n of_o mourning_n and_o of_o grace_n that_o be_v a_o day_n of_o judgement_n unto_o the_o wicked_a and_o then_o christ_n dispensatory_a kingdom_n of_o grace_n be_v at_o a_o end_n 1_o cor._n 15.24_o therefore_o to_o be_v brief_a and_o not_o to_o exceed_v due_a bound_n i_o assert_v that_o here_o by_o see_v christ_n come_v in_o the_o cloud_n by_o every_o eye_n and_o by_o they_o that_o pierce_v he_o and_o that_o all_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v wail_v because_o of_o he_o be_v mean_v by_o john_n as_o zachary_n mean_v namely_o that_o all_o the_o tribe_n both_o jew_n and_o gentile_n shall_v see_v christ_n come_v in_o the_o cloud_n with_o glory_n as_o man_n before_o the_o end_n of_o all_o to_o the_o jew_n and_o all_o his_o elect_n with_o grace_n and_o godly_a repentance_n to_o the_o all_o other_o his_o enemy_n with_o horror_n and_o confusion_n consult_v jer_n 25.5_o 6._o zach._n 2.10_o 11_o 12._o isa_n 2._o throughout_o object_n but_o here_o it_o may_v be_v object_v that_o you_o make_v divers_a come_n of_o christ_n to_o judgement_n the_o one_o to_o the_o conversion_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o the_o restauration_n of_o his_o church_n to_o a_o glorious_a state_n and_o reign_n in_o the_o destruction_n of_o their_o enemy_n and_o another_o or_o second_o come_v again_o before_o the_o final_a end_n of_o all_o thing_n to_o execute_v the_o ultimate_a judgement_n but_o this_o be_v contrary_n to_o scripture_n which_o mention_n only_o of_o two_o come_n of_o christ_n the_o first_o in_o the_o flesh_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o last_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n to_o execute_v the_o wrath_n of_o his_o father_n on_o all_o his_o impenitent_a enemy_n and_o the_o refuser_n of_o his_o gospel_n i_o answer_v christ_n come_v in_o scripture_n be_v various_o take_v sometime_o for_o his_o first_o come_v in_o the_o flesh_n sometime_o in_o spirit_n of_o grace_n power_n and_o miracle_n but_o last_o and_o most_o eminent_o to_o judgement_n and_o in_o this_o his_o last_o come_n there_o be_v several_a remarkable_a period_n and_o event_n in_o the_o beginning_n and_o morning_n of_o this_o great_a day_n he_o come_v to_o convert_v the_o jew_n restore_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o israel_n and_o to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o destroy_v antichrist_n and_o all_o the_o saint_n enemy_n not_o utter_o final_o but_o of_o all_o power_n and_o dominion_n over_o the_o church_n which_o be_v quite_o take_v off_o by_o christ_n and_o a_o sure_a chain_n or_o tie_v lay_v on_o their_o spirit_n of_o malice_n and_o on_o their_o ringleader_n satan_n himself_o that_o there_o be_v none_o can_v hurt_v during_o this_o glorious_a reign_n in_o god_n holy_a mountain_n this_o restauration_n be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o morning_n of_o the_o day_n but_o the_o wotk_n of_o the_o evening_n of_o this_o day_n be_v the_o universal_a resurrection_n of_o the_o dead_a and_o to_o give_v final_a sentence_n on_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o christ_n that_o oppose_v he_o and_o his_o kingdom_n and_o to_o give_v they_o their_o portion_n with_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n in_o that_o lake_n of_o fire_n that_o burn_v for_o evermore_o see_v more_o at_o large_a hereof_o in_o chap._n 20._o so_o that_o there_o be_v not_o two_o last_o come_n of_o christ_n but_o two_o remarkable_a act_n or_o event_n in_o this_o his_o last_o come_n to_o wit_n in_o the_o morning_n and_o evening_n of_o this_o great_a day_n of_o his_o appearance_n verse_n 8._o i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n say_v the_o lord_n which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v even_o the_o almighty_a here_o the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n be_v plain_o assert_v who_o count_v it_o no_o robbery_n to_o be_v equal_a with_o god_n and_o to_o take_v his_o attribute_n unto_o himself_o and_o that_o the_o person_n here_o intend_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v christ_n be_v clear_a from_o the_o precedent_a verse_n the_o same_o person_n that_o come_v with_o cloud_n and_o be_v pierce_v be_v the_o same_o here_o describe_v who_o be_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n and_o this_o be_v most_o evident_a by_o collate_v it_o to_o verse_n 11._o and_o 17._o where_o he_o that_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o who_o be_v dead_a but_o now_o alive_a command_v john_n to_o write_v what_o he_o see_v and_o that_o be_v christ_n verse_n 1_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n which_o be_v the_o first_o and_o last_o letter_n of_o the_o greek_a alphabet_n and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v even_o the_o almighty_a out_o of_o which_o description_n of_o his_o person_n note_v observe_v that_o christ_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o infinite_a almighty_a and_o eternal_a god_n of_o himself_o with_o the_o father_n from_o everlasting_a by_o he_o all_o thing_n be_v make_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o without_o he_o nothing_o be_v make_v and_o by_o he_o all_o thing_n shall_v end_v this_o eternal_a word_n or_o christ_n be_v with_o god_n from_o everlasting_a and_o this_o word_n be_v god_n and_o therefore_o take_v unto_o himself_o the_o essential_a and_o absolute_a incommunicable_a property_n of_o god_n unto_o himself_o and_o therefore_o this_o be_v a_o most_o express_a scripture_n if_o there_o be_v not_o any_o more_o of_o this_o consort_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n wherein_o it_o abound_v to_o â—ay_n low_a the_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a pretender_n to_o reason_n in_o the_o world_n the_o reasonless_a arrianize_v socinian_n of_o these_o time_n who_o deny_v the_o divinity_n or_o godhead_n of_o christ_n collate_n with_o this_o to_o this_o purpose_n verses_z 4_o and_o 5._o of_o this_o chapter_n verse_n 9_o i_o john_n even_o your_o brother_n and_o companion_n in_o tribulation_n and_o in_o the_o kingdom_n and_o patience_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v in_o the_o isle_n call_v patmos_n for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n john_n in_o this_o verse_n describe_v his_o condition_n and_o the_o place_n wherein_o he_o be_v when_o he_o receive_v this_o revelation_n use_v the_o love_a and_o common_a christian_a compellation_n of_o brother_n and_o companion_n in_o tribulation_n the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o fellow_n commoner_n or_o fellow-sharer_n in_o affliction_n from_o whence_o by_o the_o way_n observe_v from_o
sacrifice_v the_o saint_n which_o they_o term_v heretic_n or_o schismatics_n and_o troubler_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o union_n but_o when_o you_o meet_v such_o a_o fiery_a persecute_v spirit_n in_o any_o that_o pretend_v to_o christ_n judge_v of_o it_o whence_o it_o be_v by_o these_o scripture_n gal._n 5.20_o col._n 3.12_o 13._o so_o great_a have_v be_v the_o malice_n of_o false_a prophet_n and_o false_a teacher_n ever_o against_o the_o true_a saint_n that_o they_o have_v never_o rest_v till_o they_o have_v get_v their_o blood_n shed_v it_o be_v the_o pope_n and_o his_o false_a prelate_n and_o priest_n that_o first_o fill_v all_o europe_n with_o blood_n it_o be_v the_o same_o curse_a progeny_n that_o bring_v so_o many_o precious_a soul_n to_o the_o stake_n and_o faggot_n in_o queen_n mary_n day_n otherwise_o of_o herself_o as_o history_n testify_v of_o nature_n good_a enough_o quere_z but_o it_o may_v here_o be_v query_v for_o what_o thing_n ought_v we_o to_o suffer_v with_o patience_n and_o constancy_n and_o not_o to_o faint_v under_o the_o burden_n thereof_o i_o have_v partly_o former_o answer_v this_o question_n in_o the_o nine_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n i_o shall_v here_o add_v one_o word_n more_o for_o the_o rectify_v the_o judgement_n and_o keep_v the_o conscience_n undefiled_a herein_o first_o know_v that_o every_o soul_n be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o observe_v all_o the_o law_n of_o god_n whether_o moral_a natural_a or_o positive_a and_o to_o undergo_v all_o suffering_n whatsoever_o rather_o then_o to_o dishonour_n god_n by_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o former_a or_o neglect_v his_o worship_n by_o the_o contempt_n of_o the_o latter_a we_o be_v not_o only_o bind_v under_o persecutor_n to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n undefiled_a in_o not_o commit_v gross_a sin_n as_o idolatry_n etc._n etc._n but_o also_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o perform_v all_o our_o positive_a christian_n duty_n though_o we_o suffer_v for_o it_o as_o we_o find_v that_o 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unto_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o as_o to_o this_o let_v we_o like_o true_a christian_n pray_v libera_n domine_fw-la nos_fw-la a_fw-la malo_fw-la verse_n 4._o nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v leave_v thy_o first_o love_n we_o have_v hear_v the_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o how_o she_o have_v a_o just_a and_o honourable_a approbation_n for_o they_o yet_o notwithstanding_o there_o be_v a_o tang_n in_o the_o end_n which_o show_v some_o defection_n in_o she_o and_o after_o all_o her_o commendation_n there_o be_v a_o nevertheless_o follow_v close_o in_o the_o heel_n thereof_o with_o somewhat_o to_o be_v say_v against_o she_o just_o as_o it_o be_v often_o say_v of_o the_o good_a king_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o book_n of_o king_n that_o they_o walk_v and_o do_v upright_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n as_o david_n the_o king_n but_o withal_o there_o be_v add_v a_o but_o but_o they_o depart_v not_o from_o the_o 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