Selected quad for the lemma: conscience_n

Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
conscience_n evil_a good_a motive_n 1,128 5 11.3729 5 false
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A37045 Heaven upon earth in the serene tranquillity and calm composure, in the sweet peace and solid joy of a good conscience sprinkled with the blood of Jesus and exercised always to be void of offence toward God and toward men : brought down and holden forth in XXII very searching sermons on several texts of Scripture ... / by James Durham. Durham, James, 1622-1658.; J. C. 1685 (1685) Wing D2815; ESTC R24930 306,755 418

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nor_o endeavour_n if_o then_o this_o doctrine_n hold_v true_a and_o if_o this_o be_v the_o believer_n exercise_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o to_o please_v his_o conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o in_o nothing_o to_o of●end_v it_o sure_o such_o a_o conscience_n be_v proper_a and_o peculiar_a to_o the_o belieu●r_n and_o so_o may_v be_v a_o evidence_n of_o one_o that_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o christ_n this_o will_v be_v more_o clear_a if_o we_o look_v 1._o to_o the_o use_n that_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o scripture_n make_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o that_o the_o scripture_n will_v and_o allow_v they_o to_o make_v of_o it_o in_o their_o trial_n and_o trouble_n in_o their_o strait_n and_o difficulty_n as_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o this_o place_n paul●lyeth_v ●lyeth_z to_o it_o as_o his_o refuge_n and_o comfort_n himself_o by_o it_o in_o and_o against_o his_o present_a strait_n now_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o character_n and_o mark_n of_o a_o christian_a indeed_o it_o will_v not_o be_v nor_o be_v allow_v to_o be_v make_v such_o a_o ground_n of_o peace_n &_o quietness_n to_o believer_n in_o their_o strait_n 2._o it_o be_v clear_a from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n its_o testify_a which_o be_v not_o its_o own_o or_o from_o and_o for_o itself_o only_o but_o also_o and_o principal_o from_o and_o for_o god_n therefore_o 1_o john_n 3._o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o it_o be_v say_v hereby_o we_o know_v we_o be_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o shall_v assure_v our_o heart_n before_o god_n for_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n but_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n and_o 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o it_o be_v call_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o be_v such_o a_o answer_n as_o give_v quietness_n and_o a_o good_a testimony_n to_o believer_n when_o all_o speak_v against_o they_o or_o speak_v evil_a of_o they_o now_o this_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o a_o man_n bare_a apprehension_n that_o his_o conscience_n be_v good_a but_o it_o take_v in_o these_o three_o 1._o not_o only_o the_o conscience_n its_o say_v nothing_o against_o the_o person_n but_o positive_o speak_v for_o he_o 2._o it_o be_v such_o a_o conscience_n as_o have_v its_o testimony_n ground_v on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 3._o it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sober_o reflect_v on_o itself_o and_o try_v itself_o in_o the_o major_a proposition_n to_o wit_n i●_n such_o a_o thing_n be_v true_a and_o in_o the_o minor_a proportion_n 〈◊〉_d such_o a_o thing_n be_v true_a i●_n reference_n to_o itself_o in_o particular_a and_o find_v both_o proposition_n to_o hold_v true_a then_o ●t_a confident_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n but_o here_o some_o will_v be_v like_o object_n and_o say_v if_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o person_n save_v interest_n in_o christ_n alace_o i_o fear_v i_o never_o have_v that_o evidence_n and_o mark_n neither_o be_o i_o like_a to_o have_v it_o which_o objection_n minister_v ground_n for_o these_o two_o question_n 1._o if_o a_o believer_n may_v ever_o or_o at_o any_o time_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o 2._o what_o be_v the_o character_n and_o property_n of_o such_o a_o conscience_n for_o answer_v to_o the_o first_o we_o will_v distinguish_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o may_v be_v understand_v either_o 1_o legal_o and_o so_o it_o be_v a_o conscience_n give_v testimony_n to_o the_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n perfect_o take_v it_o so_o except_v je●_n 〈◊〉_d there_o be_v never_o a_o man_n since_o adam_n fall_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n or_o a_o conscience_n altogether_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n or_o 2._o a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v understand_v evangelical_o or_o in_o a_o gospel_n sense_n or_o as_o i●_n draw_v it's_o conclusion_n not_o from_o the_o law_n but_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n believer_n may_v have_v and_o often_o actual_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n thus_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n david_n hezekiah_n paul_n and_o other_o have_v draw_v comfort_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o good_a conscience_n not_o draw_v its_o testimony_n from_o nor_o sound_v it_o upon_o the_o law_n and_o the_o perfect_a puri●_n that_o it_o require_v but_o f●m_n and_o upon_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o purity_n that_o it_o gracious_o 〈◊〉_d in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n for_o the_o second_o viz._n what_o be_v the_o property_n of_o this_o conscience_n which_o will_v clear_v the_o former_a and_o also_o clear_a how_o it_o come_v that_o when_o conscience_n challenge_v for_o sin_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o the_o believer_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v take_v it_o as_o a_o mark_n of_o his_o save_a interest_n in_o christ_n i_o shall_v give_v th●_n 4._o or_o 5._o property_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 〈◊〉_d when_o there_o may_v be_v sin_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v when_o conscience_n be_v universal_a and_o impartial_a in_o its_o put_v 〈◊〉_d duty_n thus_o say_v the_o psalmist_n psal._n 119._o 6._o then_o shall_v i_o not_o be_v ashamed_a when_o i_o have_v respect_n to_o all_o thy_o commandment_n when_o the_o conscience_n dispense_v not_o with_o itself_o in_o the_o least_o duty_n or_o sin_n but_o its_o design_n aim_v and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o be_v in_o the_o obedience_n of_o all_o command_v duty_n and_o in_o the_o degree_n that_o be_v call_v for_o it_o be_v on_o these_o two_o that_o david_n go_v psal._n 18_o vers_fw-la 20_o 21_o 22._o the_o lord_n reward_v i_o according_a to_o my_o righteousness_n according_a to_o the_o cleanness_n of_o my_o hand_n have_v ●e_n recompense_v i_o for_o i_o have_v keep_v the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o have_v not_o wicked_o depart_v from_o my_o god_n as_o i●_n he_o have_v say_v i_o halu●d_v not_o the_o bible_n nor_o the_o command_n nor_o do_v i_o misinterpret_v they_o neither_o do_v i_o depart_v wicked_o i_o never_o resolve_o allow_v myself_o in_o any_o sin_n so_o as_o to_o oppose_v one_o sin_n and_o to_o indulge_v and_o connive_v at_o another_o for_o all_o his_o judgement_n be_v before_o i_o and_o i_o do_v not_o put_v away_o his_o statute_n from_o i_o i_o endeavour_v to_o set_v they_o always_o as_o a_o compass_n before_o i_o by_o which_o i_o allow_v myself_o to_o steer_v my_o whole_a course_n i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o keep_v myself_o from_o my_o iniquity_n the_o sin_n that_o i_o be_v most_o give_v unto_o that_o have_v most_o power_n over_o i_o and_o to_o which_o i_o have_v the_o manye_v and_o strong_a assault_n of_o temptation_n i_o keep_v myself_o most_o watchful_o from_o that_o a_o second_o propertie_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o gospel_n sense_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o conscience_n very_o single_a have_v a_o just_a regard_n for_o all_o these_o thing_n require_v in_o a_o christian_a walk_n whereof_o we_o speak_v before_o it_o s_o very_o observant_a of_o the_o performance_n of_o all_o duty_n look_v not_o only_o to_o the_o matter_n but_o to_o the_o spiritual_a manner_n of_o g●ing_v about_o they_o it_o be_v single_a in_o its_o motive_n and_o end_n lay_v due_a weight_n on_o that_o which_o christ_n say_v if_o thy_o eye_n 〈◊〉_d single_a thy_o whole_a body_n shall_v he_o full_a of_o light_n that_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n indeed_o when_o a_o man_n in_o his_o act_n be_v swey_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o do_v not_o what_o he_o do_v to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n nor_o to_o have_v somewhat_o to_o 〈◊〉_d of_o before_o god_n but_o he_o seek_v to_o have_v christ_n increase_v though_o he_o shall_v decrease_v and_o be_v conant_a to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d upon_o if_o it_o may_v contribute_v to_o the_o exait_a of_o he_o and_o will_v fain_o be_v up_o at_o the_o due_a manner_n of_o perform_v all_o call_v for_o du●es_n even_o to_o be_v in_o case_n with_o the_o apostle_n heb._n 13._o 18._o to_o say_v w●_n trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o this_o be_v our_o aim_n and_o design_n and_o if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o we_o in_o any_o thing_n we_o approve_v not_o ourselves_o in_o it_o a_o three_o property_n be_v that_o such_o a_o conscience_n be_v delight_v and_o make_v glad_a or_o grieve_v and_o make_v sad_a according_a as_o it_o be_v enable_v to_o manage_v this_o great_a design_n and_o to_o prosecute_v and_o attain_v this_o noble_a end_n or_o not_o in_o this_o respect_n a_o believer_n may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n even_o when_o he_o fail_v and_o come_v
their_o religion_n in_o that_o be_v much_o darken_v and_o insensible_o prejudicate_v as_o to_o their_o light_n when_o they_o come_v up_o the_o length_n or_o near_o the_o length_n of_o that_o light_n conscience_n speak_v and_o give_v its_o testimony_n according_o and_o they_o have_v thence_o a_o sort_n of_o peace_n but_o it_o be_v not_o the_o peace_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n 4._o a_o natural_a man_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n may_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n and_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o respect_n as_o he_o may_v pray_v and_o have_v some_o moral_a sincerity_n in_o it_o and_o ●o_o as_o he_o will_v ●ain_o have_v a_o hear_n and_o will_v some_o way_n have_v his_o heart_n pray_v ●ay_v he_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o delight_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o those_o hypocrite_n isa._n 58._o 2._o he_o will_v ●ain_o know_v what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o he_o do_v not_o deliberate_o thwart_v with_o his_o light_n in_o this_o respect_n paul_n say_v of_o himself_o before_o his_o conversion_n that_o as_o touch_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n he_o be_v blameless_a and_o rom._n 10._o 1._o he_o bear_v the_o jew_n record_n that_o they_o have_v a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o what_o i_o pray_v be_v this_o but_o conscience_n un-informed_n in_o and_o ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n from_o which_o ignorance_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o of_o the_o way_n of_o come_v to_o he_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n so_o than_o the_o natural_a man_n or_o hypocrite_n when_o he_o have_v come_v the_o length_n of_o some_o honest_a meaning_n be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o he_o have_v do_v very_o well_o and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o though_o he_o may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o some_o respect_n or_o in_o these_o respect_v mention_v and_o the_o like_a yet_o to_o have_v it_o simple_o and_o positive_o from_o solid_a and_o good_a ground_n give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n be_v impossible_a and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o have_v not_o the_o word_n go_v along_o with_o his_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o whole_a carriage_n and_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o principle_n motive_n end_n and_o design_n of_o his_o action_n testify_v for_o he_o and_o therefore_o i_o say_v he_o have_v not_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n for_o the_o next_o question_n wherein_o be_v this_o conscience_n defective_a and_o what_o be_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o it_o and_o a_o believer_n good_a conscience_n or_o how_o may_v it_o be_v know_v as_o differ_v from_o a_o honest_a gospel_n conscience_n answer_v 1_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o rise_n there_o be_v a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n for_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v blind_a if_o the_o understanding_n be_v dark_a the_o conscience_n must_v be_v so_o too_o they_o have_v say_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o jew_n a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n however_o zealous_a they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o other_o such_o may_v be_v yet_o they_o be_v ignorant_a in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o extent_n and_o spiritual_a meaning_n of_o the_o law_n suppose_v for_o instance_n that_o a_o man_n keep_v the_o six_o command_n when_o he_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o any_o gross_a act_n of_o murder_n and_o the_o seven_o when_o he_o do_v not_o actual_o commit_v adultery_n or_o fornication_n not_o know_v or_o consider_v that_o a_o look_v arise_v from_o the_o flame_n of_o lust_n within_o be_v a_o breach_n of_o that_o command_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o command_v even_o as_o the_o pharisee_n conform_v the_o law_n in_o the_o meaning_n thereof_o to_o their_o own_o practice_n and_o not_o their_o practice_n to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o law_n 2._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o of_o that_o which_o give_v the_o conscience_n solid_a ground_n to_o speak_v peace_n many_o if_o they_o have_v a_o honest_a meaning_n in_o their_o pray_n read_v of_o the_o scripture_n wait_v on_o public_a ordinance_n if_o they_o put_v their_o body_n to_o some_o sort_n of_o penance_n or_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v if_o it_o be_v the_o half_a of_o their_o estate_n to_o have_v their_o soul_n safe_a and_o if_o they_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o seriousness_n in_o all_o this_o think_v that_o all_o be_v well_o with_o they_o and_o that_o they_o have_v a_o very_a good_a conscience_n if_o this_o piece_n of_o ignorance_n be_v well_o discern_v never_o one_o soul_n out_o of_o christ_n will_v have_v peace_n because_o none_o out_o of_o christ_n have_v solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n for_o none_o have_v their_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n but_o these_o that_o be_v in_o he_o 3._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o their_o particular_a case_n they_o know_v not_o what_o sin_n they_o be_v guilty_a of_o nor_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o they_o they_o think_v it_o speak_v better_a thing_n to_o they_o then_o indeed_o it_o do_v some_o guess_n at_o it_o some_o misinterpret_v it_o and_o some_o repeal_v it_o whereas_o if_o they_o be_v sober_o reflect_v on_o and_o impartial_o look_v to_o their_o manner_n of_o proceed_v in_o every_o thing_n they_o will_v see_v that_o they_o mistake_v their_o conscience_n exceed_o this_o then_o be_v the_o first_o defect_n viz._n a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n the_o second_o be_v a_o defect_n as_o to_o singleness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o natural_a man_n best_a condition_n such_o be_v never_o single_a when_o at_o their_o very_a best_a even_o when_o they_o be_v most_o serious_a in_o prayer_n they_o be_v but_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n when_o they_o fast_o and_o give_v alm_n and_o the_o like_a it_o be_v that_o they_o may_v have_v some_o ground_n for_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o themselves_o or_o that_o other_o may_v have_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o they_o be_v always_o act_v from_o selfy_a motive_n and_o for_o self-end_n a_o 3d._a defect_n be_v the_o want_n of_o unbiased_a affection_n these_o be_v partial_a and_o bias_v will_v put_v the_o man_n to_o reason_n and_o dispute_v for_o the_o silence_v of_o his_o conscience_n and_o this_o eye_n not_o be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n affection_n be_v incline_v or_o swey_v to_o this_o or_o that_o side_n they_o will_v seek_v to_o ●way_n conscience_n to_o that_o side_n they_o incline_v to_o this_o be_v it_o that_o make_v some_o to_o follow_v after_o and_o to_o haunt_v the_o company_n of_o those_o who_o be_v erroneous_a in_o their_o judgement_n notwithstanding_o that_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n to_o the_o contrary_n lay_v before_o they_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o they_o reject_v and_o that_o without_o challenge_n be_v quite_o bias_v and_o prejudge_v in_o their_o affection_n thus_o many_o natural_a man_n lay_v this_o for_o a_o conclusion_n that_o so_o much_o only_o be_v holiness_n and_o that_o no_o more_o be_v needful_a and_o what_o be_v more_o be_v but_o superfluous_a niceness_n and_o so_o they_o prejudge_v their_o conscience_n by_o that_o 4._o it_o be_v defective_a in_o this_o that_o it_o maintain_v not_o its_o peace_n nor_o answer_v its_o challenge_n from_o christ_n blood_n it_o be_v not_o sprinkle_v with_o clean_a but_o with_o foul_a water_n to_o say_v so_o it_o may_v be_v it_o put_v the_o man_n to_o take_v on_o some_o resolution_n or_o to_o come_v under_o some_o vow_n as_o to_o somewhat_o that_o it_o may_v be_v be_v no_o command_v duty_n of_o religion_n not_o have_v any_o valuable_a influence_n upon_o it_o or_o he_o will_v as_o it_o be_v sprinkle_v his_o conscience_n with_o his_o tear_n thus_o many_o will_v grant_v that_o they_o have_v sin_v but_o withal_o they_o think_v and_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a heart_n or_o a_o good_a meaning_n or_o that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o man_n well_o esteem_v of_o have_v such_o a_o sin_n and_o be_v as_o guilty_a as_o they_o be_v or_o that_o many_o have_v have_v such_o si●s_n who_o yet_o have_v go_v to_o heaven_n on_o such_o and_o other_o the_o like_a pitiful_a ground_n they_o find_v their_o peace_n and_o by_o such_o silly_a shift_n they_o seek_v to_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n yea_o sometime_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o possibility_n of_o pardon_n many_o conclude_v confident_o that_o they_o be_v actual_o pardon_v we_o shall_v forbear_v to_o say_v any_o thing_n further_o at_o this_o time_n god_n
natural_a conscience_n and_o not_o only_o do_v thing_n sinful_a but_o take_v pleasure_n in_o they_o that_o do_v they_o therefore_o they_o be_v give_v up_o to_o do_v great_a thing_n without_o check_n or_o challenge_v hence_o it_o be_v thus_o in_o part_n at_o least_o with_o many_o professor_n within_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o thwart_v with_o conscience_n and_o indeed_o a_o silent_a and_o dumb_a conscience_n be_v a_o great_a plague_n for_o if_o it_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o reprover_n and_o speak_v not_o man_n nay_o even_o godly_a man_n may_v and_o will_v sleep_v on_o as_o david_n after_o the_o go_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o his_o light_n and_o blunt_v the_o edge_n of_o his_o conscience_n sleep_v long_o enough_o till_o conscience_n at_o last_o rouse_v he_o up_o hence_o also_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o some_o conscience_n which_o be_v sear_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o conscience_n be_v flesh_n or_o of_o a_o fleshly_a substance_n only_o he_o make_v the_o comparison_n that_o as_o a_o man_n flesh_n be_v sensible_a of_o and_o affect_v with_o the_o prick_n of_o a_o pin_n so_o be_v conscience_n with_o sin_n while_o tender_a but_o as_o the_o flesh_n of_o a_o man_n or_o beast_n when_o it_o be_v sear_v or_o burn_v a_o considerable_a thirst_n will_v not_o much_o if_o at_o all_o affect_v it_o so_o be_v conscience_n when_o stupefy_v and_o make_v senseless_a by_o multiply_a sin_n against_o light_n it_o grow_v so_o cauterise_v and_o sear_v that_o hardly_o any_o sin_n or_o challenge_v for_o sin_n be_v feel_v 3._o man_n want_v not_o a_o conscience_n though_o they_o hear_v it_o not_o always_o speak_v for_o conscience_n may_v often_o be_v speak_v when_o they_o take_v not_o head_n to_o it_o as_o be_v abundant_o clear_a in_o david_n and_o josephs_n brethren_n for_o that_o which_o be_v the_o death_n evil_a of_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v sometime_o be_v the_o sore_a and_o dangerous_a sickness_n and_o distemper_n of_o a_o child_n of_o god_n and_o though_o conscience_n may_v speak_v but_o soft_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o thereafter_o it_o will_v speak_v loud_o and_o make_v it_o know_v that_o it_o speak_v when_o it_o be_v not_o listen_v unto_o the_o day_n come_v when_o the_o book_n will_v be_v open_v and_o conscience_n will_v speak_v plain_o smart_o and_o home_n and_o it_o concern_v you_o all_o to_o know_v that_o conscience_n be_v not_o absent_a when_o it_o be_v quiet_a but_o that_o it_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v to_o purpose_n in_o due_a time_n and_o that_o as_o a_o party_n with_o who_o there_o be_v no_o try_v till_o it_o come_v before_o the_o great_a judge_n and_o then_o it_o will_v give_v in_o what_o it_o have_v to_o say_v and_o it_o will_v then_o be_v evident_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o the_o profane_v person_n who_o most_o cauterise_v it_o by_o go_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o its_o light_n and_o suggestion_n the_o 2._o use_n speak_v to_o you_o that_o live_v at_o random_n take_v great_a liberty_n and_o latitude_n to_o yourselves_o beside_o the_o rule_n o_o do_v you_o believe_v and_o remember_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n within_o you_o and_o that_o it_o will_v call_v you_o to_o a_o reckon_a sure_o if_o you_o do_v in_o good_a earnest_n you_o will_v be_v other_o manner_n of_o man_n it_o be_v general_o grant_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o all_o and_o the_o profane_v will_n have_v conscience_n often_o in_o their_o mouth_n and_o indeed_o their_o conscience_n be_v little_a worth_n when_o they_o stand_v in_o no_o awe_n of_o it_o but_o rather_o trample_v on_o it_o let_v i_o tell_v you_o the_o great_a light_n you_o have_v and_o the_o more_o mean_n and_o warning_n you_o be_v privilege_v with_o the_o great_a will_v be_v the_o aggravation_n of_o your_o guilt_n and_o the_o more_o dreadful_a will_v be_v your_o ditty_n and_o doom_n from_o god_n and_o from_o your_o own_o conscience_n if_o conscience_n will_v be_v a_o impartial_a witness_n and_o severe_a judge_n against_o all_o even_o heathen_n who_o never_o hear_v the_o gospel_n o_o then_o what_o access_n will_v it_o have_v terrible_o to_o reprove_v condemn_v smite_v and_o gnaw_v you_o that_o live_v under_o the_o gospel_n and_o hear_v the_o word_n daily_o many_o of_o you_o have_v some_o stickle_a and_o stir_v of_o conscience_n within_o you_o but_o alace_o you_o know_v not_o what_o it_o mean_v and_o will_v be_v quite_o of_o it_o but_o from_o this_o word_n be_v exhort_v to_o know_v who_o have_v appoint_v it_o and_o for_o what_o end_v it_o be_v appoint_v and_o make_v use_n of_o its_o warn_n 〈◊〉_d for_o other_o that_o know_v it_o and_o go_v on_o sleep_v secure_o in_o your_o sin_n i_o must_v say_v this_o to_o you_o that_o the_o more_o knowledge_n you_o have_v of_o it_o it_o will_v certain_o make_v you_o to_o have_v the_o more_o dreadful_a waken_n when_o all_o the_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v howl_v at_o the_o see_v of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o stand_v tremble_a at_o his_o presence_n o_o what_o a_o scrich_n and_o cry_n will_v conscience_n have_v in_o that_o day_n loud_o i_o conceive_v in_o some_o respect_n than_o the_o trumpet_n itself_o set_v home_o the_o truth_n of_o challenge_n bear_v witness_n of_o the_o fact_n and_o represent_v the_o horror_n terror_n and_o torment_n abide_v they_o therefore_o think_v on_o it_o o_o think_v on_o it_o all_o you_o who_o continue_v in_o sin_n and_o will_v not_o be_v reclaim_v who_o mock_v at_o all_o warning_n and_o break_v all_o bond_n and_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o discipline_n you_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o shake_v off_o the_o bo●d_n of_o conscience_n but_o it_o shall_v bind_v you_o as_o the_o colar_n of_o your_o coat_n and_o keep_v you_o bind_v till_o you_o be_v ●isted_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o god_n use_v 3_o see_v you_o have_v a_o conscience_n let_v it_o not_o be_v silent_a idle_a and_o usle●_n but_o put_v it_o to_o speak_v and_o do_v you_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v and_o take_v you_o warning_n from_o it_o it_o will_v not_o be_v bribe_v bud_a nor_o boast_v it_o be_v a_o sore_a matter_n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n and_o never_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o it_o nor_o of_o what_o it_o say_v i_o shall_v now_o only_o see_v there_o be_v some_o good_a and_o some_o evil_a conscience_n as_o they_o be_v or_o be_v not_o inform_v beseech_v you_o to_o study_v to_o have_v a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n especial_o since_o where_o it_o be_v well_o inform_v it_o can_v easy_o be_v bud_v nor_o soon_o prevail_v with_o to_o suffer_v thing_n to_o come_v under_o debate_n and_o controversy_n wherein_o it_o be_v clear_a a_o just_a regard_n too_o and_o the_o right_n use-making_a of_o conscience_n will_v notable_o promove_v holiness_n and_o nothing_o ready_o do_v more_o obstruct_v it_o then_o the_o not_o take_v heed_n to_o conscience_n and_o not_o lay_v due_a weight_n on_o what_o it_o say_v though_o many_o of_o you_o do_v now_o look_v on_o it_o as_o nothing_o or_o a_o thing_n of_o little_a moment_n yet_o you_o will_v find_v it_o to_o be_v a_o great_o momentanious_a thing_n o_o that_o god_n who_o have_v give_v we_o conscience_n may_v be_v gracious_o please_v to_o give_v the_o right_a use_n of_o they_o sermon_n ii_o act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n if_o we_o take_v a_o view_n of_o and_o look_v through_o christian_n and_o professor_n of_o religion_n that_o may_v have_v the_o root_n of_o the_o matter_n in_o they_o and_o may_v in_o charity_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v effectual_o call_v there_o will_v be_v find_v as_o great_a a_o gradual_a difference_n among_o they_o as_o among_o man_n of_o any_o other_o call_v whatsoever_o and_o if_o we_o will_v compare_v they_o general_o with_o the_o apostle_n as_o to_o the_o constant_a vigorous_a drive_v of_o this_o notable_a and_o noble_a design_n there_o will_v be_v find_v great_a in-equality_n and_o much_o lamentable_a un-likness_a herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n this_o be_v his_o great_a work_n and_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o sweet_a work_n yea_o a_o short_a sum_n and_o compend_v of_o a_o christian_n life_n when_o we_o discourse_v last_o from_o this_o text_n and_o have_v draw_v some_o general_a doctrine_n from_o it_o for_o clear_v the_o word_n we_o speak_v more_o particular_o to_o this_o doctrine_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o their_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o and_o affect_v man_n for_o it_o some_o thing_n
which_o affect_v they_o as_o it_o be_v affect_v if_o their_o carriage_n be_v good_a it_o speak_v good_a to_o they_o if_o evil_a it_o speak_v evil_a to_o they_o hence_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n the_o meanwhile_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o something_o also_o be_v speak_v to_o what_o conscience_n be_v and_o what_o be_v its_o office_n we_o shall_v now_o add_v a_o three_o doctrine_n though_o it_o be_v not_o the_o three_o in_o the_o order_n that_o we_o propose_v the_o doctrine_n at_o first_o which_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v so_o to_o walk_v yea_o if_o they_o be_v tender_a they_o will_v aim_v and_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v as_o in_o nothing_o they_o may_v give_v their_o conscience_n offence_n the_o forego_v doctrine_n be_v common_a to_o all_o viz._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n but_o this_o to_o walk_v friendly_a with_o the_o conscience_n so_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v or_o wrong_v it_o be_v not_o common_a to_o all_o but_o peculiar_a to_o he_o who_o be_v a_o christian_n in_o earnest_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o preecee_a chapter_n ver_fw-la 1._o man_n and_o brethren_n i_o have_v live_v before_o god_n in_o all_o good_a conscience_n until_o this_o day_n suppose_v he_o to_o mean_v since_o his_o conversion_n and_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o heb._n 13._o 18._o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o and_o his_o pitch_v on_o this_o as_o a_o great_a ground_n of_o his_o consolation_n in_o strait_n be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o common_a thing_n but_o peculiar_a to_o the_o tender_a christian_a hence_o be_v the_o confident_a approach_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o god_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n through_o the_o psalm_n in_o hezekiah_n isa._n 38._o 3._o remember_v i_o beseech_v thou_o how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n and_o in_o job_n chap._n 27._o vers_fw-la 6._o so_o 1_o john_n 3_o 21._o belove_a if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o point_n we_o shall_v show_v first_o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o that_o a_o believer_n ought_v to_o walk_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n and_o 3._o make_v use_n of_o the_o doctrine_n for_o clear_v of_o the_o first_o we_o shall_v show_v 1._o what_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v conscience_n the_o first_o of_o these_o may_v be_v comprise_v in_o these_o three_o general_n 1._o that_o whatever_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n offen_v the_o conscience_n for_o conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n substitute_n by_o he_o and_o sustain_v his_o place_n and_o vicê_n in_o a_o manner_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o give_v sentence_n for_o he_o whatever_o offend_v and_o wrong_v god_n must_v also_o offend_v and_o wrong_v the_o conscience_n and_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v not_o always_o at_o present_a sensible_o and_o feel_o affect_v the_o conscience_n yet_o it_o make_v way_n for_o that_o and_o prove_v to_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n do_v to_o it_o in_o that_o it_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n 2._o that_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n to_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v against_o light_n and_o knowledge_n and_o though_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n according_a to_o that_o light_n be_v not_o always_o so_o vigorous_a yet_o where_o there_o be_v a_o thwar_n with_o light_n there_o be_v a_o dare_v of_o conscience_n and_o a_o contradict_v of_o it_o and_o as_o it_o be_v rem_fw-la 14_o 22._o a_o man_n then_o condemn_v himself_o in_o that_o which_o he_o allow_v and_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n against_o himself_o in_o that_o wherein_o he_o have_v light_a and_o clearness_n 3._o conscience_n be_v offend_v or_o wrong_v when_o any_o thing_n be_v adventure_v on_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o impulse_n of_o it_o as_o when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v to_o be_v do_v and_o we_o notwithstanding_o leave_v ●t_a undo_v or_o when_o it_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v ●ot_n to_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o since_o conscience_n as_o we_o say_v before_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o a_o man_n thought_n purpose_n word_n and_o way_n to_o give_v in_o a_o word_n for_o god_n when_o that_o which_o it_o say_v for_o he_o be_v slight_v it_o can_v but_o be_v offend_v and_o wrong_v second_o not_o to_o offend_v but_o to_o keep_v friendship_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n with_o the_o conscience_n suppose_v and_o take_v in_o these_o thing_n 1._o to_o have_v the_o judgement_n clear_o inform_v anent_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n for_o though_o conscience_n be_v above_o we_o yet_o it_o be_v under_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v inform_v from_o his_o word_n and_o we_o lie_v a_o stumbling-block_n before_o it_o when_o we_o endeavour_v not_o to_o have_v the_o eye_n single_a as_o the_o lord_n speak_v and_o the_o understanding_n clear_a 2._o to_o listen_v and_o lend_v the_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v and_o after_o deliberation_n to_o be_v swey_v and_o determine_v according_a to_o what_o it_o say_v in_o do_v or_o forbear_v for_o unless_o we_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n we_o know_v not_o when_o we_o please_v or_o displease_v it_o 3._o to_o ply_v and_o steer_v a_o straight_a course_n according_a to_o the_o dictate_v and_o direction_n of_o conscience_n to_o take_v order_n to_o speak_v so_o from_o it_o so_o as_o when_o conscience_n point_v at_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o evil_n to_o stand_v and_o sist_z there_o without_o dare_v to_o meddle_v with_o it_o or_o move_v towards_o it_o and_o when_o it_o hold_v forth_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v a_o duty_n straight_a way_n to_o give_v obedience_n to_o it_o herein_o main_o consist_v a_o good_a conscience_n consider_v it_o with_o respect_n to_o its_o exercise_n when_o once_o make_v good_a to_o have_v our_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o against_o we_o and_o without_o have_v ground_n to_o say_v any_o thing_n against_o we_o when_o it_o can_v challenge_v we_o and_o say_v that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o not_o or_o that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o forbear_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o go_v on_o to_o the_o do_v of_o it_o so_o that_o when_o we_o come_v before_o god_n it_o may_v have_v nothing_o to_o reprove_v or_o challenge_v we_o for_o nothing_o to_o condemn_v we_o in_o but_o as_o it_o hold_v out_o our_o duty_n to_o we_o from_o the_o word_n just_o so_o to_o endeavour_v to_o behave_v in_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o second_o thing_n propose_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o viz._n that_o a_o believer_n ought_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n these_o three_o thing_n will_v confirm_v it_o 1._o the_o very_a nature_n and_o office_n of_o his_o conscience_n if_o so_o be_v that_o conscience_n speak_v for_o god_n and_o be_v appoint_v by_o he_o as_o his_o deputy_n to_o be_v a_o remembrancer_n of_o duty_n and_o a_o restrainer_n from_o sin_n than_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o love_n to_o he_o will_v make_v a_o man_n that_o be_v tender_a walk_v according_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o conscience_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o rom._n 13._o 5._o the_o command_n that_o be_v lay_v on_o for_o god_n sake_n be_v also_o lay_v on_o for_o conscience_n sake_n wherefore_o say_v he_o you_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n that_o be_v from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n that_o put_v we_o to_o our_o duty_n and_o from_o respect_n to_o conscience_n his_o deputy_n in_o this_o respect_n the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n for_o as_o a_o man_n can_v be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o neither_o can_v he_o be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o direction_n of_o his_o conscience_n speak_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n to_o he_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o great_a advantage_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n it_o give_v much_o quietness_n and_o sweet_a peace_n in_o all_o strait_n and_o trouble_n and_o much_o confidence_n and_o holy_a boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n if_o our_o conscience_n condemn_v we_o not_o say_v
there_o be_v no_o heal_n of_o his_o wound_n till_o a_o word_n from_o god_n himself_o do_v it_o it_o be_v on_o the_o contrary_a a_o ill_a token_n when_o a_o conscience_n see_v sin_n and_o can_v speak_v peace_n to_o itself_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o there_o be_v mercy_n in_o god_n and_o yet_o never_o apply_v the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v to_o purge_v it_o from_o dead_a work_n nor_o seek_v to_o have_v the_o word_n speak_v as_o it_o be_v from_o god_n own_o mouth_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o legal_a conscience_n will_v make_v amends_o to_o god_n will_v give_v he_o sacrifice_n enough_o and_o perform_v many_o duty_n to_o he_o look_v for_o his_o acceptance_n only_o on_o account_n of_o these_o and_o that_o be_v as_o ill_a a_o token_n but_o a_o good_a conscience_n rest_v not_o on_o any_o of_o these_o but_o though_o it_o have_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o a_o break_a and_o contrite_a spirit_n to_o offer_v to_o god_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o rest_n on_o that_o nor_o on_o any_o duty_n but_o be_v put_v beyond_o these_o to_o rest_v on_o christ_n and_o on_o his_o sacrifice_n purge_v i_o with_o hyssop_n etc._n etc._n say_v david_n psal._n 51._o and_o this_o be_v a_o clear_a and_o certain_a difference_v mark_n even_o to_o consider_v well_o whereon_o conscience_n rest_v for_o peace_n after_o a_o challenge_n and_o to_o make_v sure_a that_o it_o rest_v thus_o on_o christ._n a_o 3d._a character_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v both_o challenge_v and_o speak_v peace_n at_o one_o time_n it_o can_v stand_v up_o and_o defend_v itself_o against_o a_o challenge_n thus_o when_o the_o law_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n come_v and_o charge_v it_o with_o many_o defect_n in_o duty_n and_o denounce_v wrath_n against_o it_o because_o of_o these_o it_o will_v humble_o take_v with_o they_o and_o yet_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n in_o the_o very_a time_n it_o can_v betake_v itself_o to_o christ_n and_o produce_v a_o word_n of_o peace_n that_o it_o have_v ready_a at_o hand_n from_o he_o this_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n 1_o tim._n 1._o 13._o i_o be_v say_v he_o before_o a_o blasphemer_n a_o persecuter_n and_o injurious_a but_o i_o obtain_v mercy_n it_o be_v a_o evil_a token_n when_o man_n either_o have_v only_a challenge_n and_o no_o peace_n or_o only_a peace_n and_o no_o challenge_n at_o all_o as_o it_o be_v also_o a_o evil_a token_n to_o offer_v to_o maintain_v peace_n by_o shift_a challenge_n or_o to_o give_v over_o press_v after_o and_o maintain_v of_o peace_n by_o give_v way_n to_o challenge_n but_o it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n when_o conscience_n can_v take_v kind_o with_o and_o be_v humble_v under_o challenge_n and_o yet_o debate_v against_o they_o so_o as_o to_o keep_v and_o maintain_v peace_n and_o can_v give_v a_o warrant_n for_o its_o do_v so_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o great_a practic_n in_o religion_n we_o may_v see_v a_o clear_a instance_n of_o this_o in_o jo●_a who_o say_v chap._n 7._o 20._o i_o have_v sin_v what_o shall_v i_o do_v unto_o thou_o o_o thou_o preserver_n of_o man_n where_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o he_o have_v sin_v and_o can_v make_v amends_o and_o yet_o chap._n 27._o 4_o 5._o he_o say_v with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o peremptoryness_n my_o lip_n shall_v not_o speak_v wickedness_n nor_o my_o tongue_n utter_a deceit_n god_n forbid_v that_o i_o shall_v justify_v you_o till_o i_o die_v i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n from_o i_o when_o god_n speak_v or_o seem_v to_o speak_v wrath_n his_o angry_a countenance_n drive_v he_o not_o away_o from_o he_o though_o say_v he_o chap._n 13._o 15._o he_o shall_v kill_v i_o yet_o i_o will_v trust_v in_o he_o but_o i_o will_v maintain_v my_o own_o way_n before_o he_o and_o vers_n 16._o a_o hypocrite_n shall_v not_o come_v before_o he_o the_o hypocrite_n or_o legal_a man_n give_v it_o over_o when_o he_o be_v thus_o put_v hard_a to_o it_o ●_o though_o it_o be_v easy_a for_o he_o to_o presume_v while_o the_o law_n and_o wrath_n break_v not_o in_o yet_o when_o the_o law_n come_v sin_n revive_v and_o he_o die_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 79._o it_o be_v easy_a to_o have_v peace_n so_o long_o as_o god_n speak_v not_o downright_a against_o it_o but_o when_o he_o come_v to_o set_v all_o a_o man_n sin_n in_o order_n before_o he_o he_o will_v with_o judas_n run_v and_o hang_v himself_o rather_o than_o abide_v that_o torment_a conscience_n of_o he_o terrible_o denounce_v war_n and_o wrath_n from_o god_n against_o he_o a_o four_o character_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v love_v to_o entertain_v and_o welcome_v a_o challenge_n but_o a_o ill_a conscience_n can_v abide_v nor_o endure_v a_o challenge_n and_o if_o it_o can_v it_o will_v have_v conscience_n always_o silent_a and_o quiet_a when_o yet_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v quiet_a neither_o have_v it_o any_o ground_n to_o be_v so_o he_o who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v glad_a to_o have_v sin_n discover_v and_o conscience_n keep_v wake_v he_o think_v a_o sanctify_a conviction_n of_o sin_n a_o valueable_a mercy_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o aim_v not_o so_o much_o at_o this_o to_o have_v peace_n in_o himself_o as_o to_o have_v a_o good_a and_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n betwixt_o god_n and_o he_o and_o to_o remove_v what_o may_v mar_v it_o whereas_o the_o hypocrite_n great_a design_n be_v to_o have_v peace_n on_o any_o term_n and_o by_o any_o mean_n and_o therefore_o when_o a_o challenge_n come_v close_o and_o home_o to_o he_o it_o be_v quite_o mar_v it_o be_v on_o this_o ground_n that_o a_o tender_a soul_n will_v design_o aggrege_n sin_n and_o even_o foster_v a_o challenge_n as_o david_n do_v psal._n ●1_n against_o thou_o thou_o only_o have_v i_o sin_v whereas_o a_o saul_n will_v defend_v his_o own_o sinful_a practice_n and_o seek_v to_o shift_v the_o challenge_n as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o sam._n 15._o 10._o yea_o i_o have_v keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v that_o proud_a hypocrite_n a_o 5_o character_n or_o difference_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n maintain_v its_o peace_n both_o from_o the_o law_n and_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o will_v needs_o have_v peace_n in_o some_o measure_n in_o respect_n of_o both_o else_o it_o will_v not_o be_v satisfy_v the_o evil_a conscience_n again_o take_v its_o peace_n from_o the_o one_o and_o not_o from_o the_o other_o and_o so_o take_v a_o wrong_a rule_n or_o ground_n for_o sound_v and_o try_v of_o its_o peace_n a_o honest_a man_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n have_v respect_n to_o the_o law_n and_o will_v not_o thwart_v it_o yea_o the_o challenge_v and_o condemn_v part_n of_o it_o be_v welcome_v and_o the_o threaten_n of_o it_o have_v influence_n on_o he_o to_o make_v he_o fear_v and_o as_o he_o respect_v the_o law_n so_o he_o respect_v the_o gospel_n and_o look_v well_o to_o believe_v repentance_n self-searching_a examination_n meditation_n and_o to_o his_o manner_n of_o perform_v these_o and_o of_o all_o his_o other_o duty_n that_o none_o of_o they_o come_v in_o the_o place_n of_o christ_n or_o get_v any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o be_v his_o due_n and_o though_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o have_v faith_n in_o christ_n if_o he_o endeavour_v not_o to_o have_v holiness_n go_v along_o with_o it_o he_o dare_v not_o speak_v peace_n to_o himself_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o legal_a man_n or_o law-conscience_n if_o it_o be_v in_o good_a term_n as_o he_o suppose_v with_o the_o law_n it_o look_v not_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n whether_o the_o man_n be_v indeed_o flee_v to_o christ_n or_o be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o god_n through_o he_o and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n the_o presumptuous_a conscience_n when_o it_o hear_v the_o law_n and_o the_o threaten_n thereof_o it_o ●ome_v way_n tush_v at_o these_o and_o under_o pretext_n of_o betake_v itself_o to_o christ_n it_o tear_v as_o it_o be_v away_o the_o law_n and_o this_o mistake_n halve_a and_o divide_v of_o the_o rule_n make_v many_o man_n think_v that_o their_o conscience_n speak_v good_a to_o they_o when_o it_o do_v not_o so_o but_o have_v rather_o ground_n to_o speak_v evil_a and_o wo._n and_o in_o the_o by_o you_o who_o think_v you_o have_v good_a conscience_n try_v they_o by_o this_o mark_n if_o you_o walk_v humble_o under_o conscience-convictions_a take_v with_o they_o and_o if_o they_o be_v welcome_a to_o you_o as_o well_o as_o a_o word_n of_o peace_n a_o 6_o character_n or_o difference_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v holy_o jealous_a and_o suspicious_a while_o a_o evil_a conscience_n be_v presumptuous_o confident_a and_o bold_a we_o say_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v suspicious_a and_o therefore_o be_v often_o put_v
and_o be_v fond_a on_o they_o a_o 5_o character_n be_v that_o a_o delude_a conscience_n i●_n ordinary_o bitter_a and_o cruel_a in_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v proud_a and_o vain_a so_o it_o will_v persecute_v to_o the_o death_n they_o it_o differ_v from_o hence_o be_v the_o persecution_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o of_o paul_n especial_o and_o we_o have_v see_v it_o in_o poor_a delude_a soul_n who_o have_v think_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o slay_v all_o that_o be_v against_o they_o or_o differ_v from_o they_o in_o these_o their_o delusion_n some_o what_o of_o this_o bitterspirit_n accompany_v the_o delusion_n of_o the_o galatian_n therefore_o the_o apostle_n say_v to_o they_o chap._n 5._o 15._o if_o you_o bite_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n and_o james_n speak_v to_o the_o same_o purpose_n of_o such_o person_n chap._n 3._o 14._o if_o you_o have_v bitter_a envy_v and_o strife_n in_o your_o heart_n glory_v not_o and_o lie_v not_o against_o the_o truth_n this_o wisdom_n descend_v not_o from_o above_o bitter_a zeal_n and_o strife_n be_v a_o evil_a token_n and_o a_o bitter_a conscience_n be_v ready_o no_o good_a conscience_n when_o a_o man_n suppose_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o the_o right_n be_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o spirit_n of_o bitterness_n though_o in_o other_o case_n bitterness_n through_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n may_v kith_v yet_o it_o be_v native_a to_o delusion_n it_o flow_v from_o pride_n in_o such_o person_n exalt_v themselves_o above_o all_o other_o therefore_o as_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v delude_v &_o go_v wrong_a they_o must_v have_v a_o church_n by_o themselves_o and_o will_v join_v with_o no_o other_o person_n in_o christian_a communion_n but_o such_o as_o be_v of_o their_o mistake_a opinion_n but_o a_o three_o question_n arise_v here_o on_o occasion_n of_o the_o former_a viz._n whether_o believer_n in_o christ_n need_v to_o be_v afraid_a of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n and_o whether_o they_o may_v not_o be_v persuade_v and_o that_o with_o a_o sort_n of_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n that_o they_o be_v right_a when_o yet_o they_o be_v wrong_v the_o latter_a branch_n of_o the_o question_n necessary_o suppose_v the_o former_a which_o need_v not_o therefore_o to_o be_v particular_o speak_v to_o we_o answer_v with_o a_o distinction_n that_o a_o believer_n may_v be_v mistake_v and_o delude_v in_o a_o particular_a but_o can_v be_v delude_v as_o to_o his_o gracious_a state_n because_o be_v indeed_o a_o believer_n it_o be_v a_o most_o true_a and_o certain_a conclusion_n which_o he_o draw_v concern_v his_o be_v in_o a_o gracious_a state_n though_o possible_o as_o to_o some_o of_o the_o ground_n whence_o he_o deduce_v it_o he_o may_v be_v mistake_v or_o he_o may_v draw_v it_o from_o wrong_a ground_n yet_o i_o say_v in_o some_o particular_n he_o may_v be_v delude_v as_o in_o take_v such_o or_o such_o a_o error_n to_o be_v a_o truth_n and_o so_o the_o first_o three_o ground_n and_o rise_v of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n which_o we_o form_n er_o assign_v may_v agree_v to_o he_o as_o he_o may_v lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o carnal_a reason_n and_o on_o common_a gift_n as_o some_o of_o the_o galaians_n do_v and_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v in_o hazard_n to_o do_v and_o therefore_o our_o lord_n say_v to_o they_o luke_o 10._o 20._o rejoice_v not_o in_o this_o that_o the_o spirit_n be_v subject_a to_o you_o but_o that_o your_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n he_o may_v also_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o sense_n or_o comfort_n and_o the_o reason_n may_v be_v because_o when_o god_n gracious_o condescend_v to_o give_v they_o now_o and_o then_o some_o proof_n that_o he_o love_v they_o they_o be_v in_o so_o far_o desert_v draw_v a_o conclusion_n quite_o cross_a to_o the_o design_n and_o end_n of_o that_o manifestation_n as_o if_o he_o approve_v they_o in_o that_o particular_a wherein_o they_o be_v mistake_v for_o as_o a_o believer_n when_o he_o be_v right_o may_v think_v himself_o to_o be_v wrong_n because_o of_o the_o want_n of_o sense_n so_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o contrary_n he_o may_v think_v himself_o to_o be_v right_a because_o he_o have_v much_o sense_n when_o yet_o he_o may_v be_v wrong_a i_o shall_v for_o further_a clear_v instance_n it_o in_o five_o or_o six_o case_n as_o 1._o when_o a_o believer_n have_v be_v in_o some_o tender_a frame_n pray_v to_o god_n sincere_o and_o have_v get_v a_o hear_n and_o when_o some_o smile_a providence_n meet_v he_o and_o invit_v he_o to_o side_n with_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n he_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o god_n call_v he_o to_o that_o thing_n or_o it_o may_v be_v the_o christian_n after_o prayer_n meet_v with_o a_o scripture_n that_o hold_v out_o that_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v be_v pray_v for_o whence_o he_o rash_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o will_v obtain_v it_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o therein_o he_o walk_v according_a to_o reason_n if_o the_o thing_n look_v rational_a like_o to_o he_o and_o suit_v the_o matter_n of_o his_o prayer_n we_o may_v see_v something_o of_o this_o or_o very_o like_v it_o in_o samuel_n if_o we_o compare_v the_o 15._o and_o 16._o chapter_n of_o the_o first_o book_n of_o samuel_n together_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o 15._o chapter_n he_o have_v very_o probable_o be_v pray_v when_o he_o mourn_v and_o chap._n 16._o v._n 1._o he_o be_v send_v by_o god_n to_o bethlehem_n to_o anoint_v one_o of_o jesses_n son_n to_o be_v king_n and_o when_o vers_n 6._o he_o look_v on_o eliah_n he_o present_o and_o somewhat_o rash_o yet_o very_o confident_o say_v sure_o the_o lord_n anointed_n be_v before_o he_o he_o have_v be_v pray_v and_o the_o thing_n look_v so_o rational_a and_o purpose-like_a be_v persuade_v that_o he_o be_v right_a but_o the_o lord_n reprove_v he_o and_o say_v to_o he_o look_v not_o on_o his_o countenance_n nor_o on_o the_o height_n of_o his_o stature_n because_o i_o have_v refuse_v he_o for_o the_o lord_n see_v not_o ●s_a man_n see_v for_o man_n look_v on_o the_o outward_a appearance_n but_o the_o lord_n look_v on_o the_o heart_n how_o o●t_n may_v a_o tryst_n of_o providence_n be_v mistake_v i_o be_v in_o prayer_n and_o such_o a_o word_n meet_v i_o and_o such_o a_o providence_n occur_v to_o i_o and_o do_v cast_v the_o balance_n a_o ●_o d._n case_n be_v when_o a_o thing_n represent_v itself_o to_o the_o believer_n not_o only_o as_o lawful_a and_o honest_a but_o as_o conduce_v much_o to_o god_n glory_n and_o to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o work_n and_o he_o mean_v well_o in_o it_o how_o ready_a be_v he_o hence_o to_o conclude_v that_o he_o be_v certain_o call_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o we_o may_v see_v something_o of_o this_o in_o david_n who_o 2_o sam._n 7._o 1_o 2_o 3_o and_o 4._o have_v a_o purpose_n to_o build_v a_o house_n to_o god_n propose_v the_o matter_n to_o nathan_n the_o prophet_n who_o without_o consult_v god_n off-hand_n say_v to_o he_o go_v do_v all_o that_o be_v in_o thy_o heart_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o thou_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o though_o god_n love_v the_o thing_n and_o approve_v of_o it_o in_o its_o self_n as_o a_o duty_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o god_n mind_n that_o david_n shall_v perform_v it_o nor_o that_o nathan_n shall_v have_v so_o positive_o encourage_v he_o to_o it_o hence_o when_o a_o thing_n consider_v in_o itself_o be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o may_v be_v for_o his_o honour_n some_o good_a people_n may_v think_v it_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n who_o yet_o god_n never_o call_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o aim_v to_o be_v a_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o good_a thing_n in_o itself_o and_o one_o may_v have_v a_o sort_n of_o impulse_n to_o it_o who_o yet_o may_v not_o be_v call_v to_o it_o a_o 3d._a case_n be_v when_o believer_n inclination_n and_o affection_n be_v exceed_v much_o towards_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n very_o ready_o therefrom_o they_o 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up_o to_o strong_a delusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o love_n why_o may_v it_o not_o also_o be_v just_a with_o he_o judicial_o to_o harden_v they_o in_o their_o unjust_a prejudice_n who_o without_o all_o reason_n take_v up_o and_o entertain_v the_o same_o against_o godliness_n and_o the_o godly_a by_o suffer_v some_o of_o they_o to_o slide_v sometime_o into_o error_n and_o mistake_n by_o which_o they_o come_v in_o his_o righteous_a judgement_n to_o be_v so_o ●ar_o plague_v as_o to_o think_v that_o now_o they_o have_v reason_n for_o their_o prejudice_n and_o i●_n may_v be_v to_o say_v we_o think_v they_o always_o to_o be_v such_o and_o such_o person_n and_o now_o we_o see_v and_o find_v they_o to_o be_v so_o who_o 〈◊〉_d more_o weight_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o then_o on_o his_o word_n and_o who_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o cry_v more_o out_o against_o a_o infirmity_n in_o a_o godly_a person_n then_o in_o other_o and_o more_o than_o they_o can_v be_v prevail_v with_o to_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o their_o grace_n how_o many_o a_o corrupt_a and_o wicked_a man_n have_v justify_v and_o maintain_v his_o own_o bad_a practice_n from_o some_o fail_n in_o the_o saint_n not_o to_o excuse_v their_o sin_n but_o rather_o thereby_o to_o blind_v himself_o and_o to_o put_v out_o his_o own_o eye_n more_o in_o the_o four_o place_n according_a to_o the_o method_n propose_v take_v a_o word_n or_o two_o of_o use_n and_o 1._o may_v not_o this_o instruct_v we_o that_o all_o flesh_n be_v grass_n that_o when_o we_o look_v to_o ourselves_o we_o shall_v be_v humble_a and_o that_o there_o be_v need_n great_a need_n of_o fear_n and_o tremble_a in_o our_o christian_a walk_n whoever_o they_o be_v that_o dare_v to_o abuse_v this_o doctrine_n anent_o the_o saint_n infirmity_n mistake_n and_o error_n to_o foster_v themselves_o the_o more_o secure_o in_o their_o liberty_n of_o sin_v god_n shall_v if_o continue_v in_o one_o day_n make_v it_o turn_v to_o the_o aggravation_n of_o their_o guilt_n and_o to_o the_o heighten_v of_o their_o judgement_n and_o however_o for_o the_o time_n they_o heighten_v their_o sin_n exceed_o in_o propose_v the_o saint_n fault_n to_o follow_v they_o and_o not_o their_o grace_n and_o virtue_n whereas_o this_o be_v the_o genuine_a and_o kind_o use_v that_o all_o shall_v make_v of_o they_o to_o be_v watchful_a to_o walk_v in_o ●ear_n a●d_v to_o take_v heed_n lest_o we_o also_o fall_v consider_v that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v do_v ●o_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n what_o may_v we_o fear_v who_o in_o comparison_n be_v but_o dry_a tree_n if_o the_o lord_n shall_v leave_v we_o as_o just_o he_o may_v to_o follow_v our_o own_o council_n it_o will_v become_v we_o to_o wonder_v that_o we_o go_v not_o wrong_a and_o further_o wrong_v and_o to_o look_v well_o that_o we_o be_v not_o vain_a of_o our_o own_o stand_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o take_v every_o thing_n to_o be_v right_a where_o of_o for_o the_o time_n we_o may_v have_v a_o sor●_n of_o persuasion_n neither_o that_o which_o many_o good_a people_n may_v think_v to_o be_v right_a god_n have_v give_v we_o another_o rule_n that_o shall_v be_v look_v to_o and_o walk_v by_o as_o sovereign_a ●nd_n infallible_o regulate_v according_a to_o which_o we_o shall_v regulate_v our_o own_o and_o the_o conscience_n and_o practice_n of_o other_o therefore_o 3_o learn_v hence_o so_o much_o the_o more_o accurat_o and_o exact_o to_o put_v every_o thing_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n that_o we_o may_v see_v whither_o it_o be_v so_o in_o very_a deed_n as_o conscience_n dictate_v by_o all_o mean_n let_v conscience_n be_v lay_v to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n let_v we_o betake_v ourselves_o and_o our_o conscience_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n and_o if_o it_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o these_o it_o be_v because_o there_o be_v no_o light_n in_o it_o at_o least_o in_o so_o far_o and_o if_o even_a believer_n may_v thus_o err_v and_o mistake_v o_o how_o much_o more_o and_o more_o sad_o may_v other_o who_o sleep_v on_o in_o their_o security_n without_o fear_n of_o be_v mistake_v and_o of_o go_v wrong_n in_o matter_n of_o great_a and_o most_o last_a moment_n let_v be_v in_o lesser_a one_o put_v nothing_o serious_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o will_v yet_o notwithstanding_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o four_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v believer_n and_o all_o of_o you_o that_o you_o have_v need_n to_o walk_v near_o god_n and_o in_o close_o and_o constant_a dependence_n on_o he_o not_o simple_o lipn_v or_o trust_v to_o your_o own_o council_n or_o conscience_n but_o to_o he_o for_o direction_n and_o guide_n the_o 5_o use_v serve_v to_o exhort_v believer_n to_o be_v very_o thankful_a and_o to_o take_v it_o for_o a_o great_a and_o singular_a mercy_n when_o their_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o for_o sin_n and_o strike_v in_o close_o with_o that_o which_o be_v the_o spirit_n work_v john_n 16._o 8._o i_o will_v say_v christ_n send_v the_o spirit_n and_o he_o shall_v convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n o_o but_o be_v it_o a_o merciful_a profitable_a and_o comfortable_a thing_n when_o god_n help_v you_o impartial_o to_o search_v out_o sin_n to_o hear_v the_o conscience_n it_o be_v impartial_a verdict_n of_o it_o and_o to_o be_v kind_o and_o deep_o humble_v for_o it_o and_o to_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o use_n 6_o see_v here_o the_o necessity_n of_o know_v god_n mind_n better_o and_o of_o understand_v his_o word_n better_o otherwise_o we_o may_v err_v and_o go_v wrong_n and_o not_o know_v it_o let_v i_o say_v in_o a_o word_n that_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o reach_v and_o attain_v the_o scope_n of_o this_o text_n if_o we_o study_v not_o to_o know_v god_n word_n and_o his_o mind_n in_o his_o word_n better_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v among_o we_o may_v prove_v a_o great_a rise_n occasion_n and_o cause_n of_o many_o sad_a mistake_n and_o error_n if_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n prevent_v not_o let_v god_n bless_v this_o word_n and_o make_v it_o to_o have_v it_o be_v own_o use_n for_o our_o edification_n and_o warning_n sermon_n vi._n act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n the_o great_a scope_n of_o these_o word_n be_v to_o point_v out_o that_o holy_a precisness_n accuracy_n and_o circumspection_n which_o be_v in_o paul_n walk_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v in_o the_o walk_n of_o all_o christian_n and_o that_o be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o men._n the_o doctrine_n that_o we_o insist_v on_o last_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v to_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v that_o in_o nothing_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o they_o and_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o use_n we_o propose_v four_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v for_o information_n and_o direction_n how_o to_o carry_v in_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o it_o be_v in_o a_o word_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o we_o may_v thwart_v our_o conscience_n either_o in_o ommit_v any_o duty_n or_o in_o commit_v any_o sin_n the_o second_o use_v be_v for_o trial_n as_o the_o word_n bear_v out_o paul_n attainment_n and_o his_o comfort_a himself_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o he_o always_o exercise_v himself_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n whence_o we_o show_v that_o it_o be_v a_o good_a mark_n of_o sincerity_n when_o a_o man_n be_v take_v up_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o several_a doubt_n and_o question_n be_v occasion_v in_o prosecute_a of_o this_o use_n which_o we_o endeavour_v to_o clear_v and_o answer_v but_o because_o we_o see_v that_o such_o question_n be_v almost_o endless_a and_o know_v not_o if_o it_o will_v be_v to_o your_o edification_n to_o propose_v more_o of_o they_o we_o have_v resolve_v to_o break_v they_o off_o abrupt_o and_o shall_v only_o speak_v somewhat_o in_o answer_n to_o a_o objection_n or_o question_v which_o can_v well_o be_v pass_v by_o and_o it_o be_v this_o can_v that_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n see_v even_o believer_n may_v often_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n how_o then_o i_o say_v can_v it_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o of_o a_o sound_a believer_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o we_o shall_v first_o show_v how_o believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n 2._o how_o it_o be_v not_o
in-consistent_a with_o the_o doctrine_n nor_o with_o the_o use_n for_o the_o 1._o we_o will_v distinguish_v three_o thing_n in_o believer_n in_o reference_n to_o their_o conscience_n 1._o something_o wherein_o their_o conscience_n may_v just_o challenge_v they_o 2_o something_o that_o their_o conscience_n without_o ground_n may_v challenge_v they_o for_o 3_o something_o that_o may_v be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n which_o indeed_o be_v not_o by_o which_o the_o conscience_n may_v come_v to_o be_v mistake_v 1._o we_o say_v that_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n or_o case_n wherein_o upon_o just_a ground_n the_o believer_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v he_o and_o wherein_o he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n as_o beside_o several_a other_o in_o these_o 1._o if_o we_o take_v it_o to_o be_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n that_o be_v not_o only_o silent_a and_o mute_a and_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o reprover_n for_o even_o gross_a sin_n but_o also_o when_o waken_v just_o challenge_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v for_o they_o a_o believer_n may_v fall_v under_o it_o both_o way_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n and_o in_o david_n who_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n the_o first_o way_n when_o it_o be_v a_o sleep_n and_o the_o second_o way_n after_o it_o be_v waken_v though_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n consider_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o second_o way_n belong_v proper_o to_o this_o head_n 2_o if_o we_o look_v on_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n as_o its_o restless_a disquiet_v and_o vex_v call_v evil_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n as_o it_o speak_v evil_a so_o the_o believer_n may_v have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o particular_a act_n for_o which_o he_o be_v just_o challenge_v for_o he_o may_v thwart_v his_o light_n and_o may_v contract_v guilt_n and_o bring_v himself_o under_o the_o desert_n of_o wrath_n because_o of_o that_o guilt_n which_o bring_v on_o trouble_n at_o least_o inward_a in_o his_o mind_n and_o conscience_n if_o not_o outward_a also_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n after_o his_o adultery_n in_o peter_n when_o he_o deny_v christ_n and_o in_o many_o other_o certain_o as_o to_o such_o particular_a practice_n believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n 3_o if_o we_o consider_v a_o believer_n state_n and_o look_v upon_o conscience_n as_o speak_v his_o be_v in_o a_o evil_a state_n though_o doubtless_o it_o can_v warrantable_o charge_v he_o with_o nor_o challenge_v he_o for_o that_o nor_o can_v it_o have_v just_a ground_n to_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n that_o his_o state_n be_v evil_a yet_o it_o may_v very_o warrantable_o and_o on_o just_a ground_n be_v silent_a as_o to_o give_v he_o a_o positive_a testimony_n as_o to_o his_o good_a state_n when_o he_o have_v in_o such_o and_o such_o particular_n provoke_v god_n and_o cause_v he_o to_o hide_v his_o face_n as_o when_o david_n fall_v so_o foul_o his_o conscience_n may_v warrantable_o withdraw_v and_o its_o like_a do_v withdraw_v its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v his_o good_a state_n before_o god_n and_o though_o conscience_n here_o be_v in_o its_o duty_n in_o withhold_v its_o testimony_n from_o the_o believer_n while_o he_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yet_o as_o it_o do_v withhold_v it_o and_o so_o deprive_v he_o of_o the_o comfort_n result_v therefrom_o it_o may_v in_o so_o far_o be_v call_v a_o evil_a conscience_n to_o he_o though_o it_o be_v not_o in_o itself_o and_o sinful_o so_o 2_o the_o conscience_n may_v also_o challenge_v a_o believer_n for_o some_o thing_n without_o ground_n or_o unwarrantable_o which_o we_o may_v see_v beside_o other_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o conscience_n may_v charge_v a_o believer_n with_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n even_o as_o to_o his_o state_n when_o he_o be_v it_o may_v be_v much_o overcome_v with_o the_o power_n of_o unbelief_n and_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o sincerity_n much_o darken_v and_o see_v many_o thing_n very_o contrary_a thereto_o that_o may_v seem_v to_o speak_v his_o be_v out_o of_o christ_n when_o yet_o indeed_o ●e_n be_v in_o he_o the_o many_o sad_a plunge_n and_o difficulty_n that_o believer_n have_v fall_v into_o '_o wherein_n they_o have_v be_v pu●_n to_o think_v so_o hardly_o of_o themselves_o and_o not_o against_o the_o present_a light_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n neither_o prove_v that_o conscience_n may_v speak_v so_o and_o so_o hardly_o to_o they_o concern_v their_o unsound_a and_o hypocritical_a state_n and_o yet_o without_o ground_n especial_o when_o it_o hold_v not_o at_o the_o negation_n or_o suspension_n of_o its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v their_o gracious_a state_n but_o positive_o asse●eth_v the_o believer_n be_v in_o black_a nature_n still_o and_o ●o_o in_o a_o evil_n sta●e_v 2d●y_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o that_o which_o be_v not_o sin_n and_o so_o for_o that_o which_o it_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o challenge_v for_o as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o vers_fw-la 7._o compare_v with_o the_o penult_n vers_fw-la in_o the_o 7._o vers_fw-la the_o apostle_n say_v there_o be_v not_o in_o every_o man_n a_o like_a knowledge_n for_o some_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o idol_n eat_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n offer_v to_o a_o idol_n and_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v defile_v and_o vers_fw-la 12._o he_o say_v that_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v wound_v their_o light_n be_v weak_a and_o suppose_v such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o be_v challenge_v by_o their_o co●cience_n without_o just_a ground_n thus_o it_o be_v very_o ordinary_o for_o young_a beginner_n in_o religion_n to_o be_v pierce_v and_o wound_v with_o challenge_n for_o many_o thing_n that_o these_o who_o be_v more_o strong_a and_o full_o grou●_n will_v not_o at_o all_o be_v trouble_v for_o neither_o have_v ground_n to_o be_v trouble_v for_o as_o these_o who_o can_v eat_v every_o ●ort_n of_o meat_n ask_v no_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n 3_o conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n that_o have_v be_v pardon_v as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o pardon_v yea_o it_o may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n the_o pardon_n whereof_o have_v be_v intimate_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n and_o job_n who_o be_v pardon_v and_o yet_o under_o their_o affliction_n the_o sin_n of_o their_o youth_n do_v stare_v they_o in_o the_o face_n and_o the_o conscience_n will_v ready_o challenge_v for_o old_a iniquity_n though_o pardon_v either_o when_o believer_n break_v out_o into_o some_o new_a act_n of_o gross_a si●_n as_o we_o see_v in_o david_n case_n or_o when_o they_o be_v under_o some_o extraordinary_a and_o very_o sad_o circumstantiate_v dispensation_n of_o providence_n sore_o assault_v by_o tentation_n and_o unbelief_n cry_v loud_a as_o it_o be_v all_o be_v wrong_v there_o as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o measure_n with_o holy_a job._n 3_o we_o say_v that_o some_o thing_n may_v 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with_o believer_n 2_o when_o conscience_n speak_v only_o as_o to_o somewhat_o in_o part_n or_o only_o concern_v such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a and_o we_o draw_v a_o conclusion_n much_o broad_a then_o that_o which_o conscience_n do_v speak_v will_v bear_v as_o when_o it_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o this_o or_o this_o particular_a thou_o be_v not_o right_a and_o he_o hence_o conclude_v that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o nothing_o and_o very_o ordinary_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o believer_n that_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a distinct_a and_o strong_a in_o their_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v wrong_a they_o be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thing_n be_v wrong_a and_o nothing_o right_a because_o one_o thing_n be_v wrong_a so_o when_o conscience_n point_v forth_o such_o
religious_a man_n in_o some_o thing_n that_o they_o may_v get_v a_o dispensation_n to_o themselves_o in_o other_o thing_n but_o none_o of_o these_o will_v be_v find_v law-byding_a when_o god_n come_v to_o reckon_v 6_o people_n in_o a_o sort_n bargain_n with_o their_o conscience_n like_o these_o speak_v of_o isa._n 28._o 15._o they_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o death_n and_o be_v at_o agreement_n with_o hell_n and_o like_a naaman_n if_o that_o be_v indeed_o his_o meaning_n they_o will_v yield_v conscience_n such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o no_o more_o they_o must_v have_v a_o dispensation_n in_o and_o a_o liberty_n of_o make_v reservation_n and_o exception_n of_o some_o one_o or_o more_o thing_n though_o this_o may_v not_o always_o be_v do_v distinct_o formal_o and_o explicit_o yet_o it_o be_v so_o on_o the_o matter_n implicit_o and_o interpretative_o but_o that_o covenant_n with_o death_n however_o make_v direct_o or_o indirect_o shall_v be_v break_v and_o that_o agreement_n with_o hell_n shall_v not_o stand_v and_o the_o hail_n of_o god_n wrath_n will_v sweep_v away_o the_o refuge_n of_o lie_n and_o conscience_n will_v speak_v at_o last_o but_o not_o with_o or_o under_o such_o cover_v of_o figleaf_n that_o man_n now_o wrap_v themselves_o in_o therefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o dally_v not_o with_o conscience_n for_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v waken_v as_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n who_o act_v in_o and_o by_o that_o conscience_n the_o four_o and_o last_o use_v be_v a_o use_n of_o exhortation_n see_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o in_o nothing_o they_o offend_v their_o conscience_n we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o you_o will_v order_v your_o conversation_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o your_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o you_o you_o will_v all_o ready_o think_v that_o this_o be_v very_o reasonable_a and_o indeed_o if_o we_o prevail_v not_o in_o this_o wherein_o can_v we_o expect_v to_o prevail_v with_o you_o we_o seek_v no_o more_o of_o you_o but_o that_o you_o will_v so_o walk_v as_o that_o live_a and_o die_v your_o conscience_n may_v not_o flee_v in_o your_o face_n but_o may_v give_v you_o this_o testimony_n that_o you_o have_v aim_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o live_v honest_o you_o may_v possible_o think_v that_o this_o be_v a_o fair_a general_n and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o very_a gross_a and_o profane_a man_n that_o will_v deny_v it_o and_o yet_o we_o will_v think_v that_o many_o of_o you_o be_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o religion_n if_o we_o can_v prevail_v with_o you_o but_o this_o far_o as_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n live_v and_o die_v as_o we_o say_v you_o may_v study_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v no_o controvert_v nor_o debeatable_a thing_n we_o may_v with_o the_o more_o confidence_n press_v it_o upon_o you_o especial_o see_v it_o be_v the_o very_a soul_n and_o life_n of_o religion_n and_o where_o that_o be_v not_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o truth_n in_o religion_n that_o this_o exhortation_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_a and_o cogent_a we_o shall_v speak_v a_o word_n to_o these_o three_o 1._o to_o what_o this_o be_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o your_o walk_n 2._o to_o some_o motive_n to_o stir_v you_o up_o to_o it_o 3._o to_o some_o help_n to_o it_o for_o the_o 1._o it_o include_v these_o four_o which_o shall_v go_v along_o in_o your_o walk_n 1._o that_o you_o commit_v no_o know_a sin_n for_o there_o will_v be_v no_o good_a conscience_n if_o that_o be_v adventure_v on_o you_o who_o know_v that_o you_o shall_v not_o take_v liberty_n in_o drink_v drink_v in_o swear_v in_o profane_a or_o idle_a speak_n etc._n etc._n walk_v so_o as_o you_o may_v not_o thwart_v your_o knowledge_n 2_o it_o take_v in_o this_o that_o as_o you_o will_v commit_v no_o know_a sin_n so_o you_o will_v ommit_v no_o know_a duty_n because_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v wrong_v the_o conscience_n yet_o the_o sin_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o commit_v and_o the_o duty_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o omit_v do_v more_o direct_o strict_a against_o conscience_n you_o who_o know_v that_o the_o sabbath_n shall_v be_v keep_v holy_a that_o you_o shall_v pray_v in_o secret_a and_o in_o your_o family_n that_o you_o shall_v not_o offend_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n beware_v of_o hazard_v on_o these_o contrary_n to_o your_o light_n 3_o it_o take_v in_o and_o suppose_v that_o you_o do_v nothing_o doubt_o for_o rom._n 14._o he_o that_o doubt_v and_o do_v be_v damn_v he_o be_v sentence_v and_o judge_v as_o to_o that_o particular_a 4_o it_o include_v this_o to_o endeavour_v to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n o●_n perform_v all_o duty_n and_o to_o have_v a_o single_a end_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o pray_v or_o to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o other_o command_v duty_n that_o will_v not_o quiet_a the_o conscience_n if_o you_o study_v not_o to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n and_o to_o do_v it_o for_o the_o right_a end_n the_o want_n of_o these_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o acceptable_a duty_n will_v make_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v lawful_a on_o the_o matter_n turn_v to_o be_v ground_n of_o challenge_n from_o the_o conscience_n but_o somewhat_o to_o this_o purpose_n have_v be_v speak_v of_o before_o therefore_o it_o have_v now_o be_v but_o touch_v 2_o for_o motive_n 1._o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o be_v a_o more_o clear_a duty_n it_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o by_o nature_n heathen_n have_v it_o engrave_v on_o their_o heart_n as_o we_o see_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n excuse_v or_o accuse_v one_o another_o and_o they_o have_v call_v it_o a_o brazen_a wall_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o to_o a_o sound_a walk_n in_o their_o moral_a sense_n 2_o there_o be_v many_o and_o great_a advantage_n attend_v it_o as_o namely_o 1._o it_o give_v a_o man_n much_o boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n 1_o john_n 3._o 20._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o boldness_n towards_o god_n when_o we_o go_v to_o pray_v 2._o it_o give_v ground_n also_o to_o expect_v one_fw-mi hearing_n 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v please_v in_o his_o sight_n and_o cross_v not_o our_o light_n and_o conscience_n in_o neglect_v any_o of_o they_o 3_o it_o keep_v a_o man_n from_o much_o sin_n and_o be_v that_o think_v you_o little_a advantage_n to_o have_v little_a comparative_o at_o least_o on_o a_o man_n score_n to_o reckon_v for_o 4thly_a it_o make_v a_o man_n life_n cheerful_a so_o prov._n 15._o 15._o he_o that_o be_v of_o a_o merry_a heart_n have_v a_o continual_a feast_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o heart_n cheerful_a in_o god_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v it_o on_o the_o matter_n which_o guard_v the_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o that_o no_o care_n can_v considerable_o disquiet_v it_o as_o we_o have_v it_o phil._n 4._o 7._o the_o heart_n be_v guard_v yea_o garison_v as_o the_o word_n be_v with_o peace_n that_o there_o be_v no_o storm_v nor_o intake_v of_o it_o by_o outward_a trouble_n it_o be_v the_o joy_n that_o stranger_n inter_v meddle_v not_o with_o 5thly_a it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o strong_a cordial_a in_o affliction_n when_o christian_n be_v persecute_v by_o stranger_n or_o by_o false_a brethren_n be_v in_o sickness_n in_o prison_n in_o peril_n by_o sea_n or_o land_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o in_o the_o midst_n of_o affliction_n six_o and_o more_o particular_o it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o sovereign_a cordial_n when_o death_n approach_v hezekiah_n can_v say_v then_o remember_v lord_n how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n it_o put_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o posture_n of_o die_v somewhat_o like_o old_a simeon_n and_o give_v some_o ground_n to_o say_v with_o he_o now_o let_v thou_o thy_o servant_n depart_v in_o peace_n for_o my_o eye_n have_v see_v thy_o salvation_n the_o necessity_n of_o it_o will_v yet_o further_o appear_v if_o on_o the_o other_o side_n we_o look_v to_o the_o disadvantage_n that_o wait_v the_o want_n of_o it_o though_o man_n can_v be_v content_a to_o live_v a_o heartless_a life_n
to_o hazard_v on_o sin_n to_o neglect_v prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n yet_o they_o will_v consider_v the_o terror_n that_o follow_v one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n and_o how_o it_o breed_v and_o brew_v a_o hell_n within_o their_o own_o bosom_n there_o be_v then_o a_o necessity_n a_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o quarrel_n be_v not_o and_o abide_v not_o betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o for_o ever_o 3_o for_o some_o help_n or_o direction_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o we_o wish_v we_o be_v all_o in_o a_o posture_n and_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o meet_v with_o to_o receive_v and_o make_v suitable_a use_n of_o they_o 1._o endeavour_v to_o have_v light_n and_o clearness_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n and_o what_o concern_v your_o own_o good_a let_v every_o one_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 14._o 5._o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o you_o who_o be_v gross_o or_o very_o ignorant_a can_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n you_o know_v not_o when_o you_o sin_n nor_o when_o you_o do_v duty_n aright_o yea_o although_o you_o may_v do_v duty_n or_o thing_n good_a on_o the_o matter_n the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n make_v you_o want_v the_o testimony_n of_o that_o good_a alace_o that_o many_o wise_a and_o rich_a man_n that_o can_v speak_v well_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n shall_v be_v quite_o ignorant_a of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o many_o of_o you_o will_v think_v shame_n of_o it_o if_o we_o will_v point_v you_o out_o 2_o advert_v and_o take_v heed_n to_o what_o conscience_n say_v the_o truth_n be_v most_o man_n take_v heed_n to_o what_o may_v further_o their_o design_n in_o external_o to_o what_o their_o wit_n and_o reason_n carve_v out_o to_o they_o and_o to_o what_o their_o own_o light_n think_v or_o as_o it_o be_v overly_o say_v be_v right_a and_o present_o step_v to_o it_o and_o never_o ask_v what_o science_n well_o inform_v from_o the_o word_n say_v this_o make_v many_o man_n say_v and_o do_v in_o their_o haste_n that_o which_o they_o repent_v of_o afterward_o therefore_o you_o shall_v learn_v to_o put_v conscience_n to_o speak_v consult_v not_o with_o your_o design_n nor_o with_o your_o wit_n and_o reason_n only_o nor_o main_o but_o retire_v and_o consult_v serious_o with_o your_o conscience_n commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n and_o be_v still_o stand_v in_o awe_n and_o sin_n not_o as_o it_o be_v psal._n 4._o 4._o consult_v not_o with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n let_v not_o their_o advice_n come_v in_o betwixt_o god_n and_o you_o and_o final_o determine_v you_o but_o reason_n with_o yourselves_o think_v this_o and_o this_o our_o inclination_n say_v and_o this_o and_o this_o our_o overly_o light_n say_v but_o we_o will_v put_v conscience_n to_o it_o and_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o inferior_a rule_n and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v not_o take_v every_o thing_n from_o conscience_n without_o ground_n but_o hear_v what_o the_o superior_a rule_n of_o god_n word_n say_v and_o this_o be_v a_o right_a circle_n wherein_o you_o shall_v turn_v yourselves_o even_o to_o try_v your_o light_n by_o bring_v it_o to_o conscience_n and_o then_o to_o try_v your_o conscience_n by_o put_v it_o to_o give_v a_o reason_n from_o the_o word_n 3_o be_v exceed_o aware_a to_o thwart_v with_o your_o light_n in_o the_o least_o thing_n and_o abstain_v from_o every_o thing_n that_o seem_v to_o come_v in_o top_n with_o it_o for_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a tender_a thing_n if_o we_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o conscience_n we_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o give_v we_o up_o to_o do_v what_o we_o will_v and_o to_o send_v we_o like_o lamb_n to_o feed_v in_o a_o large_a place_n therefore_o i_o say_v again_o beware_v of_o thwart_v in_o the_o least_o thing_n with_o your_o light_n and_o your_o conscience_n 4_o as_o you_o will_v hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v before_o you_o do_v any_o thing_n so_o when_o you_o have_v do_v it_o you_o shall_v consider_v how_o you_o carry_v in_o it_o according_a to_o your_o light_n and_o whether_o you_o have_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o such_o a_o thing_n both_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n and_o the_o manner_n and_o put_v your_o conscience_n to_o speak_v to_o that_o and_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v concern_v what_o be_v do_v there_o will_v be_v in_o this_o much_o singleness_n for_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v evil_a it_o will_v make_v the_o who●e_a body_n full_a of_o darkness_n hence_o paul_n put_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o sincerity_n together_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o if_o we_o shall_v speak_v never_o so_o many_o good_a word_n and_o do_v never_o so_o many_o good_a ●hings_n on_o the_o matter_n if_o we_o be_v not_o single_o mind_v god_n honour_n in_o they_o they_o will_v not_o be_v acceptable_a the_o want_n of_o sincerity_n will_v be_v as_o the_o dead_a ●ie_v in_o many_o a_o man_n pot_n of_o ointment_n of_o call_v for_o duty_n that_o will_v make_v it_o cast_v forth_o one_fw-mi evil_a and_o stink_a smell_n the_o savour_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v sure_o be_v want_v where_o singleness_n be_v not_o or_o where_o conscience_n be_v make_v subordinate_a to_o our_o carnal_a interest_n many_o may_v have_v a_o resolution_n to_o do_v such_o and_o duty_n who_o yet_o make_v these_o to_o keep_v level_a with_o carnal_a design_n and_o interest_n it_o be_v impossible_a when_o man_n come_v not_o as_o new_o bear_v babe_n to_o drink_v in_o the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o they_o can_v profit_v let_v be_v grow_v thereby_o 6_o be_v frequent_a and_o serious_a in_o make_v humble_a and_o believe_a application_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o thereby_o your_o conscience_n may_v be_v sprinkle_v and_o purge_v from_o dead_a work_n for_o the_o great_a ground_n of_o your_o p●ace_n be_v not_o your_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n but_o his_o satisfaction_n many_o of_o our_o work_n and_o duty_n alace_o want_v life_n and_o if_o they_o be_v not_o sprinkle_v with_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o blood_n they_o will_v be_v but_o as_o so_o many_o dead_a weight_n on_o the_o conscience_n and_o indeed_o there_o can_v be_v no_o true_o good_a conscience_n whatever_o else_o be_v if_o this_o be_v neglect_v let_v then_o these_o that_o will_v be_v at_o a_o good_a conscience_n make_v use_n of_o these_o direction_n and_o help_n and_o they_o shall_v doubtless_o come_v the_o better_a speed_n now_o we_o be_v sure_a that_o this_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n to_o wit_n that_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o have_v and_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o always_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n which_o a_o very_a heathen_a be_v he_o present_v with_o we_o will_v not_o contradict_v and_o it_o be_v very_o useful_a for_o you_o though_o it_o may_v be_v some_o profane_a wretch_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v what_o need_v all_o this_o niceness_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o truth_n and_o a_o most_o concern_v truth_n so_o nothing_o will_v make_v your_o life_n more_o true_o cheerful_a and_o comfortable_a and_o if_o it_o be_v neglect_v or_o slight_v all_o your_o knowledge_n all_o your_o disput_n about_o religion_n all_o your_o tasting_n of_o the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n all_o your_o prayer_n or_o what_o else_o you_o can_v name_v will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n and_o see_v it_o be_v so_o very_o important_a and_o concern_v a_o truth_n we_o leave_v it_o on_o you_o before_o god_n and_o put_v it_o home_o to_o your_o conscience_n to_o make_v it_o your_o exercise_n to_o have_v always_o a_o good_a conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n we_o mind_v not_o to_o come_v back_o again_o on_o this_o text_n nor_o to_o touch_v on_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o doctrine_n at_o first_o propose_v from_o it_o what_o we_o have_v say_v be_v principal_o if_o not_o only_o design_v and_o most_o if_o not_o all_o the_o other_o doctrine_n be_v one_o way_n or_o other_o reach_v in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o these_o that_o we_o have_v at_o length_n speak_v to_o the_o lord_n gracious_o bless_v what_o you_o have_v hear_v sermon_n i._n 1_o peter_z 3._o 21._o not_o the_o put_v away_o of_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n conscience_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o most_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n give_v to_o man_n have_v a_o excellent_a nature_n be_v wait_v with_o many_o rare_a and_o choice_a uses_n and_o advantage_n throughout_o their_o whole_a life_n and_o when_o it_o be_v right_o use_v it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o special_a friend_n that_o man_n can_v have_v on_o earth_n and_o one_o of_o the_o great_a thing_n that_o this_o gospel_n and_o the_o
external_o profitable_a to_o we_o but_o main_o as_o please_v to_o god_n and_o for_o his_o honour_n as_o conduce_v to_o the_o advance_n of_o 〈◊〉_d with_o he_o or_o conformity_n to_o he_o it_o be_v most_o divine_a the_o use_n teach_v we_o to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o conscience_n as_o spiritual_a and_o as_o that_o which_o take_v up_o thing_n better_a and_o be_v a_o far_o better_a discerner_n and_o judge_n of_o thing_n than_o we_o ou●_n self_n be_v 3_o obseru●_v that_o the_o attest_v of_o conscience_n be_v a_o most_o grave_a important_a and_o solemn_a thing_n ●_o business_n of_o high_a concernment_n and_o such_o as_o ought_v to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d great_a weight_n with_o other_o it_o be_v so_o mide_a use_n of_o here_o yea_o ●t's_n testimony_n be_v some_o way_n to_o have_v weight_n with_o we_o and_o to_o be_v respect_v as_o the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n himself_o and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n therefore_o it_o be_v here_o join_v with_o they_o in_o its_o testimony_n and_o it_o can_v be_v otherways_o god_n be_v as_o be_v say_v before_o the_o immediate_a master_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v so_o divine_a a_o thing_n none_o can_v attest_v conscience_n but_o they_o must_v needs_o attest_v god_n with_o it_o the_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o to_o be_v more_o warry_a in_o attest_v conscience_n in_o a_o light_n and_o trivial_a way_n it_o be_v in_o scripture_n language_n a_o atte_a christ_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o when_o ever_o we_o there_fw-mi not_o appeal_v to_o they_o as_o witness_n we_o will_v beware_v of_o appeal_n to_o or_o of_o atte_a conscience_n or_o take_v it_o to_o be_v a_o witness_n 4_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n among_o conscience_n for_o these_o word_n my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n import_v two_o thing_n 1._o his_o attest_v his_o conscience_n not_o simple_o but_o as_o it_o be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o spirit_n 2_o it_o not_o only_o import_v sanctification_n in_o the_o habit_n of_o it_o but_o in_o its_o exercise_n also_o for_o he_o know_v that_o a_o man_n attest_v of_o his_o mere_a natural_a conscience_n be_v not_o of_o such_o value_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v easy_o delude_v and_o go_v wrong_n but_o say_v he_o i_o attest_v my_o conscience_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o as_o act_v by_o he_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o a_o renew_a and_o unrenewed_a conscience_n and_o a_o difference_n betwixt_o a_o pure_a conscience_n and_o a_o defile_a one_o to_o the_o pure_a say_v the_o apostle_n tit._n 1._o 15._o all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v paul_n appeal_n his_o conscience_n be_v as_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o such_o a_o conscience_n there_o be_v also_o a_o evil_a and_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o these_o word_n late_o speak_v of_o 1_o pet._n 3._o 21_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n clear_a there_o be_v likewise_o a_o cauterised_a conscience_n and_o a_o tender_a conscience_n yea_o there_o be_v some_o difference_n of_o conscience_n among_o believer_n themselves_o some_o conscience_n be_v weak_a some_o strong_a some_o be_v sleepy_a some_o wake_v some_o be_v secure_a some_o in_o the_o lively_a exercise_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o act_v by_o the_o spirit_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o conscience_n mean_v here_o use_v this_o difference_n will_v be_v well_o observe_v for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o every_o conscience_n that_o will_v bear_v a_o man_n through●_n it_o must_v be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sanctify_v and_o in_o that_o particular_a act_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 5_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v no_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n that_o can_v be_v satisfy_v but_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sanctify_v and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n therefore_o he_o think_v it_o not_o enough_o to_o say_v my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v but_o he_o add_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o in_o that_o passage_n 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o it_o be_v not_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n simple_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n of_o a_o wake_n tender_a spiritual_a and_o well_o enlighten_v conscience_n that_o satisfy_v use_v therefore_o ere_o man_n lay_v much_o weight_n on_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n they_o will_v first_o put_v it_o ●o_o proof_n and_o see_v that_o it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n if_o a_o man_n be_v not_o of_o some_o credit_n his_o testimony_n will_v not_o be_v of_o much_o weight_n in_o any_o matter_n it_o be_v even_o so_o with_o conscience_n as_o to_o its_o testimony_n 6_o observe_v that_o sometime_o and_o in_o some_o case_n believer_n may_v very_o warrantable_o attest_v their_o conscience_n and_o appeal_v to_o its_o testimony_n some_o believer_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o some_o in_o the_o new_a have_v do_v it_o though_o as_o we_o say_v before_o the_o attest_v of_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a grave_n and_o solemn_a thing_n and_o will_v not_o be_v use_v at_o all_o time_n and_o in_o all_o case_n yet_o at_o some_o time_n and_o in_o some_o case_n it_o may_v be_v warrantable_o use_v when_o right_o go_v about_o i_o shall_v name_v three_o or_o four_o consideration_n or_o case_n from_o the_o text_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o 1._o conscience_n may_v be_v attest_v when_o the_o matter_n that_o we_o assert_v require_v such_o a_o solemn_a attest_v of_o it_o and_o these_o thing_n concur_v here_o to_o clear_v that_o the_o matter_n wherein_o he_o atte_v his_o conscience_n be_v such_o for_o 1._o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o concern_v god_n glory_n not_o a_o little_a that_o his_o servant_n and_o messenger_n be_v not_o walk_v according_o to_o the_o flesh_n 2._o it_o tend_v to_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o for_o if_o he_o have_v not_o remove_v the_o prejudice_n that_o the_o jew_n have_v at_o he_o it_o may_v have_v mar_v their_o receive_v the_o truth_n from_o his_o mouth_n 3._o it_o tend_v to_o his_o own_o vindication_n in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o tend_v to_o the_o former_a two_o end_n and_o he_o will_v not_o suffer_v any_o blot_n to_o lie_v here_o 4._o that_o which_o he_o assert_v be_v a_o thing_n not_o obvious_a and_o can_v not_o well_o be_v otherways_o make_v out_o and_o in_o this_o so_o great_a and_o grave_a a_o matter_n he_o spare_v not_o to_o attest_v god_n and_o his_o own_o conscience_n 2._o consider_v the_o manner_n of_o his_o proceed_n it_o be_v speak_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n grave_o and_o sober_o i_o speak_v the_o truth_n in_o christ_n and_o lie_v not_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o do_v not_o rash_o and_o abrupt_o break_v out_o in_o it_o as_o many_o do_v 3_o consider_v that_o he_o be_v most_o clear_a in_o the_o thing_n ere_o he_o attest_v his_o conscience_n he_o be_v sure_a that_o it_o be_v no_o lie_n and_o that_o he_o have_v no_o mixture_n of_o untruth_n in_o it_o yea_o he_o be_v so_o clear_a that_o he_o there_fw-mi swear_v it_o and_o take_v christ_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o witness_v in_o it_o when_o man_n there_fw-mi not_o attest_v god_n in_o a_o matter_n they_o shall_v not_o attest_v their_o own_o conscience_n in_o it_o except_o they_o think_v that_o god_n will_v say_v one_o thing_n and_o their_o conscience_n another_o which_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n man_n will_v say_v many_o thing_n light_o suppose_v they_o to_o be_v true_a that_o they_o will_v be_v loath_a to_o attest_v their_o conscience_n in_o till_o they_o be_v very_o clear_a and_o sure_a that_o they_o be_v true_a 4_o add_v this_o consideration_n that_o it_o be_v do_v when_o he_o be_v in_o a_o holy_a spiritual_a and_o lively_a frame_n my_o conscience_n say_v he_o bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o attest_v conscience_n in_o a_o carnal_a frame_n be_v as_o unsuitable_a as_o to_o rush_v in_o rash_o and_o unmannerly_a before_o a_o grave_a judge_n to_o crave_v a_o sentence_n from_o he_o if_o our_o frame_n be_v not_o right_a conscience_n will_v never_o speak_v out_o a_o approve_v testimony_n to_o we_o in_o that_o particular_a which_o we_o assert_v and_o attest_v it_o in_o for_o though_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n it_o be_v true_a and_o no_o lie_n yet_o as_o to_o our_o circumstantiated_a attest_v of_o it_o in_o so_o ill_a a_o frame_n it_o will_v not_o approve_v we_o 7_o in_o the_o general_a observe_v that_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n when_o warrantable_o make_v use_v of_o be_v a_o thing_n very_o useful_a refresh_a and_o comfortable_a to_o a_o believer_n
in_o respect_n of_o the_o external_a action_n itself_o or_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o even_o though_o we_o consider_v they_o as_o indifferent_a as_o whether_o a_o man_n stay_v at_o home_n or_o go_v abroad_o eat_v now_o or_o for_o bear_v eat_v etc._n etc._n 2._o as_o these_o action_n be_v christian_n in_o which_o respect_n man_n be_v not_o only_o to_o look_v on_o the_o action_n ●t_a self_n mater●ally_o consider_v but_o they_o be_v also_o to_o look_v to_o the_o rule_v give_v to_o direct_v they_o how_o to_o walk_v christianly_o in_o that_o action_n for_o there_o be_v many_o action_n good_a in_o themselves_o or_o in_o the_o first_o respect_n that_o will_v not_o be_v find_v to_o be_v christianly_o and_o religious_o good_a or_o good_a in_o this_o second_o respect_n the_o christian_a shall_v love_v god_n with_o all_o his_o heart_n soul_n strength_n and_o mind_n mat._n 22._o 37._o he_o be_v not_o his_o own_o he_o be_v buy_v with_o a_o price_n and_o therefore_o shall_v glorify_v go●_n in_o his_o body_n and_o spirit_n which_o be_v god_n 1_o cor._n 6._o 20._o ●hether_o he_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o whatever_o he_o do_v he_o shall_v do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 10._o 30._o which_o three_o general_a precept_n show_v that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o level_v our_o action_n as_o mere_o natural_a m●n_z do_v but_o as_o it_o become_v christian_n to_o level_v they_o at_o his_o glory_n as_o the_o great_a end_n and_o scope_n of_o they_o that_o to_o we_o to_o live_v may_v be_v christ_n that_o we_o may_v live_v to_o he_o and_o glorify_v he_o who_o have_v buy_v we_o and_o that_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o love_n to_o he_o who_o have_v love_v we_o now_o conscience_n come_v not_o in_o formal_o to_o deal_v on_o the_o first_o account_n that_o be_v as_o the_o action_n be_v good_a in_o itself_o or_o on_o the_o matter_n there_o reason_n and_o judgement_n come_v in_o rather_o and_o tell_v when_o a_o man_n do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a or_o 〈◊〉_d on_o the_o matter_n but_o conscience_n come_v in_o on_o the_o second_o account_v and_o tell_v he_o when_o his_o action_n be_v do_v christianly_o 〈◊〉_d wi●_n in_o due_a manner_n from_o a_o right_a principle_n and_o to_o a_o right_a 〈◊〉_d to_o make_v this_o out_o it_o will_v be_v needful_a that_o we_o short_o speak_v a_o word_n to_o these_o two_o 1._o we_o shall_v show_v what_o make_v a_o action_n true_o christian_n and_o religious_a 2._o we_o shall_v show_v that_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n that_o make_v a_o action_n such_o conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v to_o man_n whether_o ●t_a be_v so_o with_o they_o as_o for_o the_o first_o i_o speak_v no●_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o action_n or_o what_o make_v it_o good_a in_o that_o respect_n as_o that_o it_o be_v warrantable_a and_o in_o nothing_o sinful_a as_o to_o the_o matter_n such_o as_o be_v ●aring_v drink_v hear_v read_v pray_v etc._n etc._n beside_o this_o there_o be_v these_o four_o which_o must_v be_v present_a and_o careful_o carry_v along_o in_o every_o action_n by_o the_o man_n that_o will_v act_v christianly_o and_o glorify_v god_n therein_o the_o want_n of_o which_o or_o o●_n any_o of_o these_o will_v make_v conscience_n to_o have_v something_o to_o say_v against_o he_o as_o ground_n of_o challenge_n as_o the_o have_v of_o they_o will_v make_v conscience_n to_o ●ay_n for_o he_o and_o approve_v he_o the_o 1._o of_o these_o be_v that_o a_o man_n action_n be_v level_v at_o a_o high_a end_n than_o himself_o and_o that_o be_v god_n honour_n and_o the_o ●fication_n of_o other_o as_o for_o instance_n man_n even_o in_o their_o eat_n and_o drink_v be_v not_o to_o satisfy_v themselves_o or_o to_o gratify_v their_o appetite_n only_o but_o they_o be_v to_o make_v their_o eat_n and_o drink_v a_o mean_a to_o promove_v the_o honour_n of_o god_n as_o the_o great_a and_o ultimat_fw-la end_n sit_v down_o on_o a_o ●our_n end_n will_v furnish_v a_o ground_n of_o challenge_n to_o the_o conscience_n against_o the_o person_n the_o second_o be_v that_o it_o be_v from_o a_o cleanly_a motive_n that_o not_o only_o it_o be_v a_o lawful_a and_o good_a thing_n which_o we_o do_v but_o that_o it_o be_v do_v out_o of_o conscience_n to_o god_n and_o as_o service_n to_o he_o for_o a_o man_n may_v do_v a_o good_a action_n and_o not_o do_v it_o as_o such_o as_o for_o instance_n one_o man_n may_v give_v alm_n and_o sin_n in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o and_o another_o in_o give_v may_v off●r_v a_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n to_o god_n therefore_o christ_n say_v math._n 10._o 42_o and_o mark_v 9_o 41._o whosoever_o give_v to_o drink_v to_o one_o of_o these_o little_a one_o a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n in_o the_o name_n as_o a_o disciple_n viz._n consider_v he_o as_o such_o and_o give_v it_o to_o he_o as_o such_o a_o one_o or_o in_o the_o name_n of_o and_o because_o he_o belong_v to_o 〈◊〉_d on_o that_o account_n and_o under_o that_o consideration_n and_o be_v swey_v by_o that_o as_o his_o motive_n very_o he_o shall_v in_o no_o way_n loss_n his_o reward_n this_o two_o man_n may_v suffer_v both_o a_o like_a unjust_o from_o a_o churlish_a master_n or_o superior_a the_o one_o of_o who_o may_v have_v no_o thanks_o nor_o peace_n in_o his_o suffering_n when_o the_o other_o suffer_v christianly_o out_o of_o conscience_n to_o god_n and_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n that_o call_v he_o to_o it_o be_v accept_v and_o have_v peace_n this_o be_v thank_v worthy_a say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o pet._n 2._o 19_o if_o a_o man_n for_o conscience_n sake_n endure_v grief_n and_o suffer_v wrongful_o so_o in_o the_o love_n of_o a_o husband_n to_o his_o wife_n and_o of_o a_o parent_n to_o he_o or_o her_o child_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o love_v on_o a_o mere_a natural_a account_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o love_v such_o a_o relation_n christianly_o and_o out_o of_o conscience_n to_o god_n though_o the_o former_a be_v not_o condemn_v yet_o it_o be_v this_o latter_a that_o make_v it_o to_o be_v a_o conscientious_a and_o acceptable_a love_n before_o god_n the_o 3_o be_v that_o the_o action_n be_v go_v about_o in_o the_o right_a manner_n as_o such_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n be_v command_v to_o be_v do_v as_o for_o instance_n if_o it_o be_v a_o word_n of_o instruction_n or_o admonition_n give_v by_o we_o to_o another_o that_o it_o be_v give_v prudent_o love_o and_o tender_o or_o what_o ever_o the_o action_n be_v in_o reference_n to_o other_o that_o our_o manner_n of_o go_v about_o it_o be_v such_o as_o may_v adorn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n and_o make_v the_o action_n to_o shine_v the_o more_o convince_o to_o other_o because_o of_o our_o suitable_a way_n of_o discharge_v it_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o testimony_n in_o their_o conscience_n and_o may_v gain_v they_o or_o further_o gain_v they_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o godliness_n but_o this_o can_v be_v so_o well_o instance_a in_o particular_n because_o several_a duty_n require_v their_o own_o suitable_a way_n of_o perform_v of_o they_o the_o four_o thing_n that_o must_v go_v along_o with_o every_o action_n be_v that_o it_o be_v mix_v with_o faith_n heb._n 4._o 2._o not_o only_o the_o faith_n of_o such_o a_o action_n be_v good_a and_o lawful_a in_o itself_o for_o that_o be_v always_o presuppose_v but_o these_o two_o thing_n here_o be_v further_a requisite_a 1._o that_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n be_v go_v about_o in_o the_o strength_n of_o jesus_n christ_n so_o that_o it_o may_v have_v a_o superior_a spiritual_a principle_n to_o wit_n god_n strength_n act_v in_o it_o and_o not_o our_o own_o simple_o that_o crowd_n of_o witness_n chronicle_v heb._n 11._o be_v say_v to_o do_v all_o they_o do_v this_o way_n viz._n by_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o only_o by_o faith_n exercise_v on_o christ_n for_o accept_v of_o they_o but_o also_o by_o faith_n exercise_v on_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v bear_v through_o in_o the_o do_n of_o what_o they_o do_v 2._o that_o not_o only_a faith_n be_v exercise_v for_o divine_a strength_n in_o do_v and_o that_o the_o doer_n be_v deny_v to_o their_o own_o strength_n but_o that_o there_o be_v also_o a_o rest_v on_o christ_n for_o the_o acceptation_n of_o their_o person_n and_o performance_n and_o this_o be_v al●e_o requisite_a as_o any_o of_o the_o former_a because_o though_o a_o person_n do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a in_o itself_o and_o have_v all_o the_o other_o requisit_n to_o the_o action_n yet_o if_o there_o be_v a_o fall_n in_o this_o conscience_n will_v not_o speak_v peace_n by_o faith_n it_o be_v say_v heb._n 11._o 4_o 5._o that_o abel_n offer_v a_o more_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n than_o cain_n
neglective_a of_o conscience_n it_o be_v certain_o a_o evidence_n of_o one_fw-mi untender_a frame_n in_o believer_n and_o where_o ever_o it_o be_v habitual_a and_o regnant_a it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o evil_a state_n for_o if_o one_o be_v a_o tender_a christian_a when_o shall_v his_o conscience_n be_v tender_a if_o not_o in_o the_o nick_n of_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o action_n for_o that_o be_v the_o time_n when_o he_o will_v or_o shall_v be_v level_v lest_o he_o miss_v the_o mark_n and_o know_v how_o fickle_a and_o unconstant_a he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o heart_n like_o a_o unsteady_a hand_n how_o shall_v he_o guard_v against_o its_o levity_n and_o unstablenesse_n the_o 3d._n use_v be_v of_o exhortation_n to_o advert_v more_o to_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n in_o perform_v duty_n o_o learn_v to_o reflect_v on_o yourselves_o in_o every_o thing_n and_o to_o ask_v yourselves_o what_o you_o be_v do_v that_o you_o may_v know_v if_o you_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n if_o wrong_n that_o you_o may_v take_v with_o it_o and_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o if_o right_a that_o you_o may_v be_v comfort_v in_o it_o we_o conceive_v this_o will_v be_v a_o notable_a guard_n to_o tenderness_n and_o keep_v communion_n with_o god_n and_o a_o sovereign_a help_n to_o prevent_v many_o sin_n and_o much_o hypocrisy_n in_o our_o way_n of_o do_v thing_n even_o to_o be_v take_v exact_a notice_n if_o we_o be_v indeed_o do_v that_o which_o we_o profess_v to_o be_v do_v if_o we_o be_v speak_v to_o edification_n if_o we_o be_v pray_v in_o earnest_n when_o we_o pretend_v to_o be_v pray_v etc._n etc._n 2_o observe_v that_o when_o conscience_n be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o to_o the_o man_n that_o perform_v it_o and_o speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o he_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o paul_n con_n science_n do_v here_o he_o be_v sincere_a in_o the_o thing_n that_o he_o assert_n and_o it_o bear_v he_o witness_v of_o his_o sincerity_n when_o he_o advert_v to_o it_o first_o i_o say_v conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n and_o sense_n of_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v well_o please_v and_o can_v speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o the_o man_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o mind_n at_o any_o time_n but_o when_o it_o be_v well_o plea●ed_v it_o signify_v it_o by_o testify_v for_o the_o man_n and_o 2_o i_o say_v that_o not_o only_o do_v it_o testify_v its_o satisfaction_n with_o the_o action_n but_o with_o every_o thing_n in_o it_o when_o there_o be_v a_o right_a end_n a_o right_a motive_n and_o a_o right_a manner_n of_o performance_n when_o christ_n be_v due_o respect_v in_o it_o and_o make_v use_v of_o for_o strength_n and_o acceptance_n and_o 3_o i_o add_v this_o if_o man_n advert_v to_o it_o and_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v because_o it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v always_o yet_o man_n will_v not_o hear_v nor_o know_v what_o it_o say_v except_o they_o advert_v well_o and_o reflect_v and_o take_v good_a heed_n to_o it_o 3_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v very_o strengthen_v confirm_v comfort_a refresh_a and_o satisfy_v to_o a_o man_n in_o a_o particular_a action_n to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o this_o bear_v paul_n through_o here_o amid_o all_o challenge_n that_o may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o seek_v of_o himself_o or_o from_o follow_v revenge_n in_o what_o he_o assert_n there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n say_v he_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v of_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v not_o a_o man_n action_n simple_o that_o will_v give_v he_o boldness_n confidence_n and_o comfort_n for_o several_a person_n may_v concur_v in_o one_o and_o the_o self_n same_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n and_o yet_o some_o may_v have_v a_o good_a 〈◊〉_d other_o a_o evil_a conscience_n in_o it_o be_v it_o but_o as_o to_o a_o man_n thought_n and_o opinion_n of_o himself_o for_o it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o commend_v himself_o but_o he_o who_o god_n commend_v that_o be_v approven_v when_o conscience_n i_o say_v bear_v witness_n for_o a_o man_n it_o be_v a_o very_a strengthen_n confirm_v and_o satisfy_v thing_n the_o reason_n be_v 1._o because_o conscience_n be_v the_o more_o single_a and_o impartial_a judge_n and_o witness_n and_o therefore_o a_o man_n may_v lay_v the_o more_o weight_n on_o it_o 2_o because_o conscience_n speak_v and_o bear_v witness_n with_o respect_n to_o god_n and_o when_o it_o testify_v on_o solid_a ground_n it_o be_v god_n testimony_n now_o when_o a_o debate_n arise_v in_o a_o man_n about_o any_o of_o his_o action_n the_o man_n himself_o be_v the_o party_n arraign_v the_o challenge_n or_o tentation_n be_v the_o party_n accuse_v and_o conscience_n be_v as_o the_o witness_n or_o judge_n that_o decide_v and_o be_v unbiased_n it_o bear_v witness_n and_o pass_v the_o sentence_n true_o and_o impartial_o it_o as_o it_o be_v say_v it_o be_v true_a he_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o sincere_o and_o i_o know_v that_o his_o thought_n and_o intention_n be_v honest_a and_o thus_o conscience_n decide_v the_o debate_n in_o his_o favour_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v it_o on_o his_o side_n and_o so_o confirm_v and_o comfort_v he_o the_o use_n be_v to_o exhort_v you_o to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o conscience_n and_o on_o its_o testimony_n and_o less_o weight_n on_o any_o other_o thing_n for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v your_o good_a meaning_n nor_o good_a hope_n as_o you_o use_v to_o speak_v but_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n that_o will_v be_v find_v fit_a to_o decide_v in_o any_o action_n 4_o observe_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n speak_v ing_z for_o a_o man_n and_o his_o perform_n of_o a_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n be_v separable_a that_o be_v a_o man_n may_v do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a in_o itself_o and_o yet_o not_o have_v a_o positive_a and_o approbative_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n concern_v it_o otherways_o paul_n need_v not_o to_o have_v attest_v his_o conscience_n if_o he_o have_v not_o know_v that_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n may_v have_v be_v separate_a from_o what_o he_o speak_v it_o be_v well_o enough_o know_v that_o he_o be_v say_v his_o heart_n be_v grieve_v for_o the_o rejection_n of_o the_o jew_n but_o the_o question_n be_v if_o he_o have_v say_v it_o honest_o and_o sincere_o and_o he_o assert_n that_o he_o have_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n for_o that_o as_o a_o distinct_a thing_n there_o be_v but_o too_o many_o proof_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v there_o not_o many_o who_o speak_v good_a word_n and_o do_v good_a deed_n on_o the_o matter_n who_o yet_o have_v not_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o speak_n and_o do_v of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o amaziah_n 2_o chro●_n 25._o 2._o he_o do_v that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o not_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n so_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o many_o other_o that_o they_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o they_o want_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o this_o will_v be_v further_a clear_a if_o we_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v a_o action_n true_o and_o christianly_o good_a such_o as_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o other_o day_n many_o care_n for_o no_o more_o but_o that_o the_o action_n be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o it_o be_v moreover_o requisite_a that_o it_o be_v good_a as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o performance_n that_o it_o be_v from_o a_o right_a motive_n to_o a_o right_a end_n do_v in_o faith_n by_o strength_n draw_v from_o christ_n and_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o acceptance_n on_o his_o account_n a_o corrupt_a end_n in_o prayer_n in_o come_v to_o the_o church_n to_o hear_v in_o read_v the_o word_n or_o in_o any_o other_o duty_n will_v spoil_v the_o action_n 2_o that_o there_o be_v different_a rule_n to_o try_v these_o by_o there_o be_v one_o rule_n to_o regulat_fw-la we_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o action_n and_o another_o to_o regulat_fw-la our_o manner_n of_o go_v about_o they_o and_o a_o good_a conscience_n look_v to_o both_o these_o rule_n and_o if_o anyof_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n to_o the_o suitable_a and_o acceptable_a performance_n of_o they_o be_v absent_a and_o want_v in_o so_o far_o conscience_n will_v withhold_v its_o positive_a approve_v testimony_n a_o good_a conscience_n its_o testimony_n be_v like_o the_o harmony_n of_o a_o well_o tune_a instrument_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o have_v all_o the_o string_n on_o
with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o also_o with_o principality_n and_o power_n and_o spirtual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n yet_o have_v this_o for_o his_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n not_o to_o insist_v on_o the_o connection_n we_o have_v in_o the_o word_n these_o four_o thing_n 1._o paul_n continue_a chearfulnesse_n notwithstanding_o his_o former_o mention_a 〈◊〉_d this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v 2._o the_o ground_n and_o rise_v of_o this_o spiritual_a and_o solid_a joy_n that_o no_o affliction_n can_v remove_v from_o he_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n in_o his_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n he_o take_v a_o back-look_a of_o his_o way_n and_o find_v his_o conscience_n no●_n simple_o speak_v but_o testify_v good_a on_o his_o hehalf_n tell_v he_o that_o though_o he_o and_o his_o fellow_n be_v account_v deceiver_n and_o unknown_a yet_o they_o be_v true_a and_o well-known_a etc._n etc._n as_o it_o be_v 2_o cor._n 6._o v._n 8._o 3ly_n the_o extent_n or_o amplification_n of_o this_o ground_n 1._o more_o general_o we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v to_o be_v restrict_v to_o paul_n conversation_n after_o his_o conversion_n in_o his_o ministry_n and_o otherways_o for_o though_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v a_o blameless_a visible_a conversation_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o a_o renewedman_n have_v for_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o rejoice_v 2._o more_o particular_o he_o not_o only_o have_v a_o good_a conversation_n as_o to_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o his_o life_n but_o in_o his_o carriage_n towards_o the_o corinthian_n in_o particular_a with_o who_o he_o have_v be_v so_o much_o and_o so_o long_o conversant_a and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n what_o ever_o they_o may_v through_o the_o suggestion_n and_o instigation_n of_o false_a teacher_n have_v be_v dispose_v and_o ready_a to_o upbraid_v he_o with_o yet_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o sincerity_n and_o integrity_n as_o to_o what_o all_o the_o world_n can_v say_v of_o he_o which_o he_o allege_v and_o more_o abundant_o towards_o you_o partly_o to_o show_v his_o distinctnes_n in_o search_v his_o conscience_n not_o by_o the_o lump_n to_o speak_v so_o but_o as_o to_o the_o several_a part_n and_o piece_n of_o his_o life_n and_o partly_o to_o obviate_v a_o objection_n or_o calumny_n that_o may_v arise_v among_o they_o whe●e_v his_o conversation_n be_v most_o and_o most_o carp_v at_o 4_o we_o have_v the_o character_n whereby_o he_o confirm_v this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o the_o qualification_n of_o it_o whereby_o his_o confidence_n of_o have_v it_o be_v confirm_v which_o be_v four_o the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v negative_a not_o by_o fleshly_a wisdom_n not_o seek_v my_o own_o end_n nor_o my_o own_o good_a in_o a_o carnal_a way_n neither_o by_o carnal_a reason_n prosecute_a the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n the_o other_o three_o be_v positive_a the_o 2._o be_v simplicity_n that_o be_v a_o holy_a singleness_n in_o reference_n to_o the_o end_n he_o be_v a_o straight_a upright_o single_a man_n and_o in_o nothing_o double_a the_o 3d._n be_v that_o be_v be_v in_o godly_a sincerity_n and_o this_o not_o only_o as_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o gross_a hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulatiion_n but_o as_o it_o differ_v from_o mere_a moral_a honesty_n he_o walk_v not_o only_o in_o a_o civil_a moral_a honest_a way_n as_o mere_o moral_a and_o civil_a man_n use_v to_o do_v in_o their_o barganing_n and_o other_o deal_n but_o in_o godly_a sincerity_n do_v every_o thing_n as_o in_o god_n sight_n as_o he_o say_v of_o himself_o chap._n 2._o v._n last_o we_o be_v not_o as_o many_o who_o corrupt_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o as_o of_o sincerity_n as_o of_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n speak_v we_o in_o christ_n the_o 4._o character_n whereby_o he_o prove_v that_o he_o have_v this_o testimony_n and_o be_v assure_v of_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o what_o he_o do_v by_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o by_o the_o strength_n of_o nature_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o show_v as_o we_o say_v before_o that_o this_o testimony_n reach_v no_o further_a than_o from_o the_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n the_o first_o of_o these_o positive_a character_n or_o evidence_n show_v the_o singleness_n of_o his_o end_n the_o second_o show_v his_o singleness_n in_o the_o way_n of_o prosecute_a that_o end_n the_o three_o show_v the_o principle_n whereby_o or_o where_o from_o he_o act_v it_o be_v not_o carnal_a reason_n that_o give_v he_o counsel_n nor_o nature_n that_o strengthen_v he_o but_o grace_n in_o these_o word_n then_o we_o have_v first_o a_o short_a and_o sweet_a compend_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o comfortable_a life_n and_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2._o we_o have_v the_o way_n how_o to_o attain_v and_o how_o to_o entertain_v and_o maintain_v the_o same_o the_o apostle_n in_o a_o word_n be_v now_o put_v to_o it_o and_o have_v both_o foe_n and_o friend_n on_o his_o top_n he_o take_v a_o back_n look_v of_o his_o life_n and_o reflect_v on_o what_o be_v his_o carriage_n towards_o all_o man_n and_o towards_o the_o corinthian_o more_o particular_o and_o find_v his_o conscience_n testify_v for_o he_o as_o to_o both_o and_o on_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n well_o prove_v and_o make_v out_o he_o quiet_o settle_v and_o joyful_o cheer_v himself_o have_v already_o speak_v of_o what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n before_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o do_v any_o thing_n we_o have_v now_o choose_v these_o word_n to_o show_v what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o what_o be_v past_a not_o to_o stand_v on_o every_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v observe_v from_o they_o we_o shall_v astrick_n ourselves_o to_o this_o scope_n viz._n to_o point_n out_o the_o right_a use_n make_v of_o conscience_n it_o be_v sense_n and_o testimony_n of_o our_o way_n and_o action_n after_o they_o be_v pass_v and_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o believer_n in_o try_v his_o by-gone_a course_n of_o life_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o as_o to_o conscience_n it_o be_v testimony_n of_o it_o or_o as_o to_o what_o conscience_n can_v say_v concern_v it_o 1._o then_o observe_v but_o in_o pass_v that_o conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n to_o a_o man_n concern_v his_o action_n and_o conversation_n of_o a_o long_a time_n past_a so_o that_o though_o he_o have_v be_v in_o such_o a_o country_n among_o such_o a_o people_n about_o such_o and_o such_o a_o action_n many_o year_n ago_o conscience_n reflect_v upon_o have_v a_o faculty_n to_o speak_v so_o of_o signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o as_o of_o every_o other_o action_n of_o his_o life_n much_o of_o paul_n time_n be_v now_o past_a and_o a_o part_n of_o it_o in_o the_o ministry_n at_o corinth_n yet_o look_v so_o far_o back_o his_o conscience_n give_v he_o this_o testimony_n which_o will_v be_v further_o clear_v if_o we_o consider_v first_o the_o experience_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o attest_v their_o conscience_n in_o past_a and_o in_o long_a since_o past_a action_n na●_n we_o suppose_v there_o be_v few_o or_o rather_o none_o at_o all_o but_o their_o conscience_n will_v sometime_o challenge_v they_o for_o a●_n evil_a action_n that_o be_v by_o their_o hand_n and_o that_o for_o a_o considerable_a time_n josephs_n brethren_n be_v a_o famous_a instance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o now_o if_o it_o can_v challenge_v or_o accuse_v it_o can_v also_o excuse_v and_o approve_v a_o man_n and_o testify_v for_o he_o when_o he_o have_v do_v well_o for_o excuse_v be_v as_o extensive_a in_o a_o good_a case_n as_o accuse_v be_v in_o a_o evil_a 2._o it_o be_v clear_a also_o from_o the_o office_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o as_o we_o show_v be_v not_o only_o to_o dictat_fw-la and_o to_o be_v a_o observe_a companion_n but_o to_o be_v a_o judge_n which_o suppose_v for_o ordinary_a the_o thing_n to_o be_v pass_v therefore_o 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o both_o the_o condemn_a and_o absolve_v of_o the_o heart_n be_v speak_v of_o which_o infer_v that_o the_o conscience_n call_v there_o the_o heart_n have_v a_o way_n of_o recognoscing_a of_o and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o a_o man_n way_n and_o action_n not_o only_o while_o they_o be_v a_o do_v but_o when_o past_a 2_o observe_v which_o be_v that_o we_o main_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o that_o it_o be_v a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o of_o the_o practice_n of_o ●_o christian_n to_o be_v reflect_v on_o his_o by-gone_a way_n and_o try_v what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o not_o only_o as_o i_o have_v often_o aid_v to_o deliberat_fw-la and_o advise_v with_o conscience_n before_o and_o to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o in_o
see_v that_o to_o win_v at_o such_o a_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n be_v possible_a and_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o possibility_n of_o it_o it_o serve_v also_o to_o encourage_v we_o to_o seek_v after_o it_o if_o conscience_n be_v make_v of_o self-examination_n it_o be_v not_o a_o heartless_a hopeless_a and_o desperate_a business_n as_o many_o take_v it_o to_o be_v who_o think_v and_o it_o may_v be_v they_o have_v just_a ground_n for_o that_o thought_n have_v so_o evil_a a_o conscience_n that_o it_o neither_o will_n nor_o can_v speak_v good_a to_o they_o but_o it_o will_v certain_o speak_v when_o there_o be_v ground_n for_o it_o 6_o observe_v that_o a_o believer_n who_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v take_v with_o it_o acknowledge_v it_o and_o rejoice_v in_o it_o paul_n have_v and_o find_v this_o restimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n own_v it_o express_v profess_v and_o avouch_v it_o that_o which_o i_o mean_v here_o be_v this_o that_o a_o believer_n will_v no_o less_o take_v with_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n when_o it_o speak_v for_o he_o than_o he_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n when_o it_o speak_v against_o he_o and_o will_v be_v as_o well_o comfort_v by_o the_o one_o as_o he_o be_v humble_v under_o the_o other_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o saint_n clear_v and_o confirm_v this_o hezekiah_n david_n paul_n here_o and_o other_o of_o the_o godly_a have_v comfort_v themselves_o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n we_o will_v not_o we_o dare_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v either_o the_o great_a or_o most_o ordinary_a fault_n but_o we_o be_v sure_a it_o be_v a_o fault_n incident_a to_o believer_n that_o they_o do_v not_o when_o study_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n take_v more_o with_o acknowledge_v and_o comfort_v themselves_o in_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n partly_o think_v that_o it_o be_v presumption_n for_o they_o to_o own_o it_o or_o to_o comfort_v themselves_o in_o it_o partly_o think_v that_o something_o else_o be_v more_o suitable_a for_o they_o and_o that_o it_o become_v they_o rather_o to_o be_v humble_v because_o of_o the_o many_o evil_n that_o they_o find_v themselves_o to_o be_v guilty_a of_o then_o to_o be_v thus_o comfort_v think_v that_o they_o have_v never_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o a_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n for_o they_o which_o be_v very_o hard_o for_o believer_n to_o conclude_v for_o it_o be_v on_o the_o matter_n to_o deny_v that_o they_o have_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o truth_n for_o as_o far_o as_o grace_n be_v in_o exercise_n they_o have_v ground_n for_o this_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n for_o they_o and_o so_o good_a ground_n to_o be_v comfort_v and_o make_v joyful_a from_o it_o but_o for_o prosecute_a and_o clear_n of_o this_o we_o shall_v give_v you_o some_o rule_n or_o caution_n which_o may_v serve_v as_o so_o many_o direction_n to_o walk_v by_o in_o this_o matter_n for_o prevent_v of_o mistake_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v this_o that_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n to_o sojourn_v and_o militant_a saint_n do_v nor_o flow_n from_o perfection_n in_o holiness_n otherwise_o david_n paul_n hezekiah_n &_o other_o will_v never_o have_v have_v it_o but_o it_o flow_v from_o reflect_v on_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o a_o man_n way_n and_o his_o find_v it_o to_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n straight_o before_o the_o lord_n as_o we_o see_v it_o do_v in_o david_n ps._n 18._o 21_o 22._o and_o ilb_v 23._o 11_o 12._o though_o in_o particular_a step_n they_o have_v their_o own_o fail_n the_o second_o be_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v challenge_n for_o sin_n there_o may_v be_v in_o one_o and_o the_o same_o believer_n a_o just_a challenge_n for_o what_o be_v wrong_a and_o a_o good_a testimony_n for_o what_o be_v right_a and_o as_o he_o shall_v not_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n refuse_v to_o take_v with_o the_o challenge_n so_o he_o shall_v not_o on_o the_o other_o decline_v embrace_v the_o good_a testimony_n as_o the_o lord_n teach_v plain_o in_o his_o way_n of_o deal_n with_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n revel_v 2._o and_o 3._o where_o when_o he_o reprove_v they_o for_o what_o be_v wrong_a he_o also_o commend_v they_o for_o what_o be_v right_a teach_v believer_n thereby_o to_o distinguish_v well_o betwixt_o these_o two_o and_o so_o to_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n from_o conscience_n for_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v wrong_v as_o not_o to_o refuse_v its_o testimony_n for_o they_o when_o they_o be_v right_a for_o the_o conscience_n will_v always_o have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v to_o such_o in_o reference_n to_o both_o these_o they_o that_o resolve_v as_o it_o be_v to_o admit_v only_o of_o challenge_n and_o of_o nothing_o but_o pure_a challenge_n suppose_v themselves_o to_o be_v lie_v still_o in_o their_o natural_a and_o unrenewed_a state_n and_o they_o that_o will_v be_v at_o a_o absolute_a and_o entire_a good_a testimony_n without_o any_o challenge_n at_o all_o must_v look_v for_o that_o only_a in_o heaven_n where_o all_o the_o godly_a will_n most_o certain_o have_v it_o to_o their_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o eminent_o full_a of_o glory_n and_o it_o be_v a_o very_a shrewd_a evidence_n of_o a_o unsound_a state_n and_o of_o a_o person_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o delusion_n to_o imagine_v that_o he_o have_v only_o such_o a_o testimony_n always_o without_o any_o challenge_n for_o sin_n at_o all_o while_o he_o have_v still_o a_o corrupt_a nature_n within_o he_o as_o all_o other_o mortal_n have_v the_o 3d._n be_v that_o in_o the_o self_n same_o action_n a_o christian_a may_v and_o ready_o will_v have_v both_o a_o challenge_n and_o a_o testimony_n a_o challenge_n for_o something_o wrong_n and_o a_o testimony_n for_o something_o right_a therein_o according_a to_o that_o word_n of_o nehemiah_n chap._n 1._o hear_v the_o prayer_n of_o thy_o servant_n and_o of_o thy_o servant_n who_o desire_v to_o fear_v thy_o name_n he_o no_o doubt_n want_v not_o challenge_n for_o short-coming_n yet_o he_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o his_o desire_n to_o fear_v god_n name_n and_o heb._n 13._o 18._o the_o apostle_n say_v we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o and_o yet_o there_o be_v so_o much_o corruption_n remain_v in_o the_o eminent_o holy_a man_n as_o to_o raise_v challenge_n on_o he_o as_o we_o see_v rom._n 7._o but_o he_o sever_v what_o be_v right_a in_o his_o own_o condition_n from_o what_o be_v wrong_a we_o will_v not_o therefore_o think_v that_o we_o can_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o our_o conscience_n except_o there_o be_v absolute_a purity_n in_o the_o duty_n or_o action_n this_o be_v as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v say_v i_o have_v no_o faith_n because_o i_o have_v a_o mixture_n of_o unbelief_n with_o it_o or_o i_o have_v no_o sincerity_n because_o i_o have_v a_o mixture_n of_o hypocrisy_n with_o it_o we_o know_v that_o saint_n use_v to_o distinguish_v and_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o these_o as_o that_o poor_a man_n do_v who_o say_v mark_v 9_o i_o believe_v lord_n help_v my_o unbelief_n as_o another_o may_v say_v i_o have_v much_o hypocrisy_n yet_o i_o have_v some_o 〈◊〉_d with_o it_o as_o david_n do_v on_o the_o matter_n psal._n 51._o the_o four_o be_v that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o good_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o a_o particular_a action_n when_o as_o to_o the_o action_n complex_o consider_v a_o believer_n may_v see_v ground_n to_o be_v humble_v there_o be_v two_o part_n in_o he_o the_o renew_v and_o un-renewed_n part_n sometime_o the_o corrupt_a and_o un-renewed_n part_n may_v so_o restrain_v he_o that_o he_o can_v do_v that_o which_o he_o will_v and_o yet_o he_o may_v have_v some_o peace_n here_o in_o as_o far_o as_o according_a to_o the_o renew_a part_n he_o allow_v not_o himself_o in_o that_o prevail_a of_o the_o corrupt_a and_o un_fw-we renew_v part_n but_o be_v afflict_v with_o and_o protest_v against_o the_o same_o so_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 7._o 15_o 16_o 17._o that_o which_o i_o do_v i_o allow_v not_o ●or_a what_o i_o will_v that_o do_v i_o not_o but_o what_o i_o hate_v that_o do_v i_o if_o then_o i_o do_v that_o which_o i_o will_v not_o i_o consent_v ●nto_o the_o law_n that_o it_o be_v good_a and_o it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o that_o do_v it_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o for_o to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o i_o but_o how_o to_o perform_v that_o which_o be_v good_a i_o find_v not_o he_o want_v not_o ground_n of_o challenge_n from_o the_o un_fw-we renew_a part_n yet_o he_o have_v pea●e_a on_o this_o account_n that_o he_o can_v &_o
mistake_v and_o reproach_v many_o time_n man_n care_v but_o little_a for_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o when_o all_o the_o world_n as_o it_o be_v come_v in_o a_o man_n top_n the_o confidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o excellent_a and_o none-such_a friend_n and_o companion_n it_o have_v great_a weight_n with_o paul_n here_o and_o be_v a_o sufficient_a counter-poise_n to_o all_o the_o reproach_n and_o calumny_n they_o can_v load_v he_o with_o though_o he_o be_v look_v on_o even_o as_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o off-scouring_n of_o all_o thing_n 4_o observe_v that_o when_o man_n meet_v with_o many_o reproach_n and_o walk_v in_o a_o way_n that_o be_v attend_v with_o a_o multitude_n of_o snare_n they_o need_v more_o than_o a_o guess_v or_o a_o conjectural_a un_fw-fr certainty_n as_o to_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n anent_o their_o be_v right_a even_o a-well-grounded_n certainty_n and_o persuasion_n paul_n do_v not_o say_v here_o we_o suppose_v or_o hope_v as_o many_o of_o you_o understand_v hope_n but_o we_o trust_v or_o be_v firm_o persuade_v man_n will_v study_v always_o to_o be_v clear_a in_o what_o they_o do_v but_o more_o especial_o when_o their_o way_n may_v be_v offend_v at_o and_o they_o reproach_v on_o account_n thereof_o and_o most_o especial_o as_o to_o that_o part_n of_o their_o way_n that_o be_v like_a to_o be_v most_o offend_v at_o more_o particular_o from_o these_o word_n consider_v as_o a_o reason_n of_o the_o foregoing_a exhortation_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o observe_v 1._o that_o a_o man_n who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o be_v most_o clear_a in_o it_o do_v ordinary_o lie_v most_o weight_n on_o prayer_n and_o be_v most_o in_o love_n with_o that_o sweet_a exercise_n so_o that_o he_o will_v not_o only_o pray_v for_o himself_o but_o will_v also_o desire_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o its_o never_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o man_n that_o make_v he_o slight_a prayer_n himself_o or_o 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col._n 4._o and_o philip._n 1._o he_o be_v much_o in_o put_v and_o press_v they_o to_o pray_v and_o to_o pray_v and_o strive_v for_o he_o together_o in_o prayer_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o a_o man_n of_o a_o tender_a conscience_n have_v a_o kindly_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o infirmity_n and_o a_o great_a desire_n to_o be_v forward_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o at_o much_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o will_v therefore_o ●ain_o have_v a_o lift_n from_o every_o one_o that_o can_v help_v he_o such_o a_o man_n have_v a_o native_a exercise_n in_o pursue_v not_o only_o after_o fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o also_o with_o his_o people_n whereof_o this_o be_v a_o main_a part_n and_o though_o these_o may_v be_v look_v at_o but_o as_o little_a thing_n yet_o if_o we_o compare_v ourselves_o with_o the_o rule_n and_o with_o the_o practice_n of_o tender_a christian_n we_o will_v find_v considerable_a defect_n as_o to_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o they_o there_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o 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have_v a_o christian_n good_a conscience_n in_o lay_v on_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n on_o other_o for_o he_o 2._o what_o influence_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n to_o persuade_v other_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n for_o the_o person_n that_o have_v it_o more_o than_o for_o other_o our_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o these_o two_o will_v lead_v we_o in_o to_o the_o discovery_n of_o some_o notable_a advantage_n that_o attend_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o for_o the_o first_o we_o say_v in_o general_a that_o a_o good_a co●_n science_n have_v a_o notable_a influence_n on_o prayer_n and_o put_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o we_o or_o there_o be_v a_o strong_a connexion_n betwixt_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o advantage_n of_o prayer_n 1._o there_o be_v a_o connexion_n betwixt_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o liberty_n and_o boldness_n in_o prayer_n as_o it_o be_v clear_a 1_o john_n 3._o 21._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o we_o have_v confidence_n towards_o god_n a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n or_o a_o accuse_v and_o challenge_v conscience_n have_v a_o sort_n of_o ●ing_v at_o and_o at_o best_a much_o discouragement_n in_o prayer_n so_o that_o he_o can_v lift_v up_o his_o face_n without_o blush_v &_o shame_n but_o a_o good_a conscience_n on_o the_o contrary_a help_n to_o boldness_n in_o prayer_n and_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n in_o god_n as_o a_o father_n so_o that_o he_o can_v bold_o say_v our_o father_n 2_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v influence_n on_o or_o a_o connexion_n with_o ou●_n obtain_v a_o hear_n in_o prayer_n and_o on_o our_o be_v confident_a that_o we_o shall_v get_v a_o hear_n for_o we_o know_v say_v that_o poor_a man_n john_n 9_o v_o 31._o that_o god_n hear_v not_o sinner_n but_o if_o any_o man_n do_v his_o will_n ●e_n hear_v he_o and_o david_n say_v psal._n 66._o v_o 18._o if_o i_o regard_v iniquity_n in_o my_o heart_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o ●ear_v i_o and_o it_o be_v say_v 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v plea●ing_v in_o his_o sight_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o indeed_o a_o meritorious_a cause_n of_o the_o hear_n of_o prayer_n yet_o god_n have_v establish_v a_o connexion_n betwixt_o it_o and_o his_o hear_n of_o prayer_n and_o it_o have_v influence_n on_o our_o expect_v a_o hear_n and_o on_o our_o know_v that_o we_o shall_v get_v a_o hear_n 3_o and_o more_o particular_o as_o to_o the_o scripture_n now_o before_o we_o a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v confident_a to_o put_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o which_o another_o can_v h
and_o herein_o lie_v the_o weight_n of_o the_o apostle_n argument_n pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n on_o this_o ground_n he_o plead_v for_o this_o privilege_n of_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n which_o he_o can_v not_o have_v so_o do_v have_v he_o not_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 4_o a_o ma●●hat_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n may_v more_o confident_o expect_v the_o benefit_n of_o other_o prayer_n as_o well_o as_o of_o his_o own_o whereas_o a_o man_n who_o way_n and_o conscience_n be_v evil_a though_o other_o prayer_n may_v sometime_o have_v weight_n before_o god_n to_o further_a his_o change_n yet_o he_o himself_o can_v have_v no_o comfort_n in_o they_o while_o he_o be_v such_o therefore_o while_o david_n be_v pray_v for_o his_o enemy_n he_o say_v his_o prayer_n return_v into_o his_o own_o bosom_n but_o it_o do_v they_o little_a or_o no_o good_a thus_o we_o see_v what_o advantage_n it_o be_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n it_o make_v we_o 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it_o lay_v on_o a_o strong_a obligation_n but_o it_o give_v great_a ground_n of_o encouragement_n and_o confidence_n to_o deal_v with_o god_n on_o their_o behalf_n and_o of_o hope_n and_o expectation_n to_o be_v hear_v peace_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v upon_o they_o that_o 〈◊〉_d according_a to_o this_o rule_n he_o find_v here_o firm_a ground_n to_o stand_v on_o to_o say_v so_o in_o pray_v confident_o and_o with_o hope_n of_o success_n for_o such_o then_o for_o other_o 4_o clearness_n and_o persuasion_n so_o far_o as_o be_v in_o this_o case_n attainable_a that_o another_o be_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n make_v a_o christian_a more_o willing_a to_o pray_v and_o more_o hearty_a in_o prayer_n for_o such_o a_o person_n will_v pray_v with_o the_o better_a will_v to_o speak_v so_o for_o other_o when_o he_o know_v that_o they_o be_v tender_a whereas_o any_o grossness_n in_o a_o professor_n will_v have_v influence_n on_o the_o cool_n of_o his_o prayer_n for_o they_o and_o he_o will_v be_v in_o hazard_n of_o be_v tempt_v at_o least_o some_o way_n to_o lie_v by_o we_o will_v not_o say_v but_o there_o may_v be_v often_o a_o fault_n in_o this_o yet_o there_o be_v still_o a_o truth_n in_o the_o connexion_n betwixt_o suppose_v a_o person_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o our_o bear_a burden_n with_o he_o and_o take_v a_o more_o kind_o lift_v of_o his_o condition_n in_o prayer_n and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o apostle_n make_v use_v of_o this_o ground_n to_o press_v and_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o and_o to_o show_v that_o he_o expect_v the_o help_n of_o their_o prayer_n and_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o small_a encouragement_n in_o prayer_n to_o make_v mention_n of_o a_o person_n name_v particular_o to_o god_n in_o prayer_n when_o we_o know_v that_o it_o be_v the_o name_n of_o one_o that_o be_v a_o friend_n of_o he_o as_o abraham_n be_v call_v all_o these_o serve_v to_o commend_v the_o great_a advantage_n that_o attend_v the_o have_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o lay_v a_o strong_a obligation_n on_o we_o to_o pursue_v after_o it_o and_o they_o may_v some_o way_n direct_v we_o how_o to_o walk_v so_o as_o we_o may_v attain_v and_o entertain_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o they_o may_v withal_o help_v to_o make_v some_o discovery_n to_o we_o if_o we_o be_v tender_a in_o our_o walk_n but_o we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o apostle_n assertion_n we_o trust_v say_v he_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n from_o which_o we_o will_v observe_v a_o few_o thing_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v more_o general_a 1._o then_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v a_o very_a great_a difference_n betwixt_o conscience_n some_o conscience_n be_v good_a some_o evil_n some_o be_v clear_a and_o pure_a some_o be_v unclear_a impure_a and_o defile_v as_o the_o apostle_n show_v 2_o tim_n 1._o 3._o when_o he_o say_v i_o thank_v god_n who_o i_o serve_v with_o a_o pure_a conscience_n and_o while_o he_o say_v tit._n 1._o 15._o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o conscience_n be_v defile_v every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n but_o not_o the_o like_a conscience_n so_o that_o i_o say_v there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o conscience_n even_o as_o great_a as_o there_o be_v betwixt_o man_n as_o sin_n have_v bring_v a_o long_a train_n of_o pollution_n and_o defilement_n with_o it_o so_o that_o they_o reach_v the_o whole_a man_n the_o very_a conscience_n itself_o not_o except_v ●o_o special_a grace_n have_v a_o mighty_a powerful_a influence_n where_o it_o come_v and_o reach_v the_o whole_a man_n and_o the_o conscience_n in_o particular_a though_o not_o perfect_o in_o this_o life_n think_v no●_n 〈◊〉_d that_o all_o man_n conscience_n be_v alike_o and_o as_o you_o will_v not_o trust_v every_o man_n word_n so_o shall_v you_o not_o trust_v every_o man_n conscience_n 2_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n attainable_a as_o a_o good_a or_o clear_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n otherways_o if_o it_o be_v simple_o un-attainable_a there_o can_v be_v ●o_o 〈◊〉_d no●_n true_a ground_n for_o paul_n assertion_n here_o this_o good_a conscience_n in_o short_a be_v come_v at_o thus_o 1._o there_o be_v a_o exercise_n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n whereof_o we_o speak_v from_o act_n 24._o v_o 16._o this_o be_v the_o tender_a christian_n design_n which_o he_o drive_v 2_o when_o a_o man_n have_v be_v thus_o exercise_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n he_o be_v in_o the_o nixt_a place_n exercise_v to_o know_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v its_o approbative_a testimony_n and_o this_o we_o speak_v to_o from_o these_o word_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n 3_o there_o be_v a_o clear_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n which_o flow_v from_o the_o former_a two_o when_o a_o man_n have_v be_v exercise_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o and_o come_v to_o discern_v it_o there_o result_v from_o these_o a_o clear_a calm_a serene_a smile_v and_o pleasant_a conscience_n which_o be_v a_o most_o heartsome_a and_o solacious_a thing_n to_o dwell_v with_o 〈◊〉_d very_o desirable_a delightsome_a refresh_a cheerful_a and_o spiritualy_a jovial_a companion_n the_o ●se_n serve_v to_o show_v you_o that_o you_o shall_v not_o look_v on_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o a_o empty_a or_o airy_a fancy_n or_o notion_n or_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o attainable_a or_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v never_o attain_v by_o any_o you_o
house_n beside_o it_o we_o will_v not_o say_v but_o many_o filthy_a thing_n may_v be_v in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n but_o it_o do_v not_o comport_v well_o with_o they_o nor_o digest_v they_o they_o be_v as_o lukewarm-water_n to_o a_o man_n stomach_n that_o he_o can_v keep_v but_o must_v needs_o vomit_v up_o again_o and_o he_o be_v sick_a till_o he_o do_v so_o 5._o it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n of_o a_o pure_a conscience_n when_o the_o man_n can_v endure_v to_o be_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o christ_n but_o have_v many_o errand_n to_o he_o will_v fain_o be_v near_o he_o yea_o will_v fain_o abide_v constant_o with_o he_o as_o well_o as_o in_o he_o by_o faith_n when_o he_o will_v lie_v beside_o he_o as_o beside_o the_o fountain_n to_o be_v bleatched_a there_o so_o to_o speak_v because_o he_o k●ws_v that_o no_o soon_o will_v he_o go_v from_o he_o but_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v defile_v and_o he_o love_v so_o well_o to_o be_v clean_o and_o love_v christ_n so_o well_o that_o make_v he_o clean_o that_o he_o like_v well_o to_o be_v always_o near_o he_o this_o be_v a_o good_a token_n of_o a_o person_n that_o have_v a_o pure_a conscience_n because_o as_o it_o betoken_v a_o great_a loathe_n of_o filthiness_n so_o it_o betoken_v a_o great_a respect_n to_o christ_n on_o this_o account_n as_o to_o the_o maker_n and_o keeper_n of_o the_o conscience_n clean_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v a_o very_a evil_a token_n when_o person_n will_v pretend_v to_o a_o pure_a conscience_n when_o yet_o they_o will_v not_o go_v to_o the_o fountain_n for_o a_o very_a long_a time_n if_o at_o all_o and_o when_o they_o go_v if_o we_o may_v speak_v so_o they_o scarce_o give_v their_o conscience_n a_o dip_v or_o a_o little_a sprinkle_n or_o syne_v as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v but_o they_o be_v away_o and_o go_v again_o but_o a_o serious_a tender_a and_o purge_v soul_n will_v no_o soon_o perceive_v a_o ●oul_a stain_n or_o spot_n but_o it_o repair_v quick_o to_o the_o fountain_n of_o christ_n blood_n to_o get_v it_o wash_v out_o and_o o_o but_o its_o precious_a to_o he_o and_o he_o never_o think_v himself_o to_o be_v right_a and_o well_o but_o when_o he_o be_v there_o and_o near_o to_o he_o it_o be_v true_a he_o can_v always_o be_v in_o prayer_n or_o in_o other_o duty_n of_o worship_n yet_o he_o endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o the_o habitual_a exercise_n of_o faith_n correspond_v with_o he_o for_o attain_v and_o keep_v a_o clean_a and_o undefiled_a conscience_n sermon_n ii_o heb._n 9_o v_o 14._o and_o 10_o v_o 22._o how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n if_o we_o know_v what_o sort_n of_o conscience_n we_o natural_o have_v and_o be_v suitable_o sensible_a of_o the_o evil_a state_n of_o they_o it_o will_v be_v to_o we_o as_o good_a news_n from_o a_o far_a country_n to_o hear_v how_o they_o may_v be_v get_v purge_v and_o make_v good_a and_o how_o little_a soever_o man_n think_v of_o this_o now_o and_o how_o ever_o easy_a they_o fancy_v it_o to_o be_v to_o get_v their_o conscience_n solid_o quiet_v and_o calm_v there_o be_v a_o day_n come_v when_o sleep_v and_o secure_a conscience_n will_v be_v awake_v and_o when_o it_o will_v be_v find_v more_o easy_a to_o endure_v the_o great_a toil_n and_o the_o most_o exquisite_a torment_n on_o earth_n then_o to_o wrestle_v with_o and_o to_o be_v close_o pursue_v and_o constant_o haunt_v by_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o evil_a and_o awake_v conscience_n which_o will_v roar_v against_o man_n as_o a_o lion_n and_o tear_v as_o it_o be_v the_o very_a cawl_n of_o their_o heart_n then_o o_o then_o they_o who_o will_v never_o be_v persuade_v before_o to_o believe_v what_o a_o evil_a and_o defile_a conscience_n be_v nor_o what_o the_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n of_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o in_o the_o conscience_n be_v shall_v be_v make_v to_o their_o eternal_a prejudice_n to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o both_o in_o both_o these_o place_n now_o read_v in_o your_o hear_n the_o apostle_n scope_n be_v to_o commend_v the_o transcendent_a worth_n and_o matchless_a excellency_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o incomparable_a efficacy_n of_o his_o most_o precious_a blood_n from_o this_o noble_a notable_a and_o non-such_a effect_n of_o it_o viz._n that_o when_o nothing_o else_o can_v lay_v or_o allay_v the_o storm_n and_o tempest_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n nor_o purge_v it_o from_o these_o defile_n dead_a work_n this_o blood_n can_v do_v it_o to_o purpose_n and_o effectual_o when_o apply_v by_o faith_n when_o no_o legal_a sacrifice_n nor_o wash_n that_o sanctify_v only_o to_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o flesh_n can_v reach_v perfyte_v the_o comer_n thereto_o as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v say_v chap._n 9_o v._n 9_o neither_o can_v deliver_v he_o from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o give_v he_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n in_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n over_o the_o belly_n of_o many_o quarrel_n and_o ground_n of_o challenge_n the_o blood_n of_o christ_n can_v as_o it_o be_v chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o we_o leave_v the_o other_o day_n at_o speak_v somewhat_o to_o that_o natural_a pollution_n that_o thorough_o affect_v the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o all_o man_n before_o they_o be_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n purge_v and_o the_o apostle_n take_v such_o pain_n to_o hold_v out_o this_o show_v plain_o that_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a concernment_n to_o christian_n to_o know_v the_o way_n how_o to_o get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v from_o that_o deep_a defilement_n of_o sin_n wherewith_o they_o be_v pollute_v for_o be_v it_o not_o his_o manner_n to_o insist_v in_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o of_o concernment_n to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n who_o will_v ready_o from_o the_o sad_a and_o doleful_a experience_n of_o their_o own_o pollution_n be_v induce_v to_o think_v that_o this_o truth_n be_v such_o and_o aught_o to_o be_v esteem_v so_o by_o they_o 2_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o christian_n shall_v more_o aim_v at_o and_o endeavour_v more_o to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o then_o to_o be_v follow_v that_o way_n whereby_o they_o may_v get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v and_o more_o particular_o these_o who_o have_v have_v their_o conscience_n again_o defile_v after_o that_o they_o be_v once_o purge_v no_o main_n infect_v with_o the_o borch_n or_o plague_n have_v more_o need_n of_o cleanse_v from_o it_o than_o the_o man_n who_o conscience_n be_v infect_v and_o defile_v with_o the_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n needs_o to_o have_v it_o purge_v from_o they_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n we_o shall_v but_o very_o brief_o to_o make_v way_n for_o that_o which_o we_o will_v main_o be_v at_o hint_n at_o two_o or_o three_o observation_n from_o both_o these_o verse_n now_o read_v put_v together_o first_o than_o observe_v from_o chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o that_o a_o conscience_n not_o purge_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o very_a evil_a thing_n which_o we_o will_v find_v to_o be_v a_o very_a sad_a truth_n if_o we_o consider_v the_o unpurged_a conscience_n either_o as_o it_o be_v awake_v or_o as_o it_o be_v not_o awake_v but_o asleep_o which_o be_v ill_a both_o way_n it_o be_v ill_a if_o it_o be_v awake_v and_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n be_v fresh_a upon_o it_o who_o can_v express_v or_o adequat_o conceive_v the_o terribleness_n of_o such_o a_o case_n the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n may_v sustain_v his_o infirmity_n and_o wrestle_v through_o many_o cross_n but_o a_o wound_a a_o wrath-wounded_n spirit_n or_o a_o ill_a conscience_n rouse_v by_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o almighty_a god_n who_o can_v bear_v this_o have_v make_v some_o with_o judas_n the_o trai_fw-fr tour_fw-fr rather_o to_o choice_n death_n a_o violent_a death_n inflict_v by_o their_o own_o wretched_a hand_n on_o themselves_o than_o life_n whereby_o they_o have_v desperate_o run_v themselves_o under_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n to_o the_o full_a o_o poor_a silly_a miserable_a shift_n and_o evasion_n to_o flee_v from_o some_o small_a fore-party_n as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n on_o earth_n into_o the_o very_a strength_n and_o main_a battle_n of_o it_o eternal_o in_o hell_n this_o be_v infinite_o worse_a than_o to_o leap_v out_o of_o the_o water_n into_o the_o fire_n nay_o some_o of_o the_o most_o eminent_a
saint_n by_o the_o fall_n but_o of_o some_o hot_a scald_a drop_n of_o god_n fatherly_a wrath_n and_o displeasure_n have_v be_v bring_v near_o the_o length_n of_o wish_v rather_o for_o strangle_v though_o merciful_o keep_v from_o it_o and_o make_v to_o abhor_v it_o than_o life_n as_o it_o be_v with_o non_fw-la such_o holy_a job_n who_o look_v on_o death_n a_o violent_a death_n as_o a_o easy_a matter_n be_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o wrath_n and_o to_o be_v set_v up_o as_o the_o mark_n for_o god_n arrow_n to_o be_v shoot_v at_o the_o venom_n whereof_o to_o his_o apprehension_n drink_v up_o his_o spirit_n though_o all_o the_o while_o he_o be_v keep_v up_o in_o the_o faith_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o god_n and_o of_o his_o love_n to_o he_o to_o his_o purpose_n human_a heavy_o complain_v psal._n 88_o i_o be_o afflict_v and_o ready_a to_o die_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v if_o it_o be_v sometime_o do_v thus_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n even_o the_o green_a what_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o the_o dry_a now_o the_o conscience_n be_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n the_o receptacle_n of_o all_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n it_o must_v therefore_o certain_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a thing_n to_o have_v a_o awake_v ill_a conscience_n if_o a_o ill_a and_o unpurged_a conscience_n be_v silent_a and_o a_o sleep_n it_o be_v in_o some_o respect_n worse_o for_o it_o have_v this_o black_a and_o dreadful_a awaken_v abide_v it_o and_o the_o long_o it_o sleep_v and_o keep_v silence_n the_o the_o wakn_n will_v be_v the_o more_o terrible_a and_o its_o cry_n the_o loud_o it_o be_v all_o the_o while_n of_o its_o silence_n and_o sleep_v treasure_v up_o more_o wrath_n whereby_o the_o poor_a wretch_n will_v be_v pay_v home_o with_o multiply_a increase_n of_o terror_n and_o horror_n o_o that_o you_o know_v how_o evil_a a_o thing_n how_o very_o evil_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n not_o purge_v from_o dead_a work_n a_o conscience_n not_o sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o no_o stranger_n can_v intermiddle_v with_o the_o joy_n of_o a_o man_n spirit_n who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n a_o conscience_n sprinkle_v and_o purge_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n so_o no_o man_n can_v to_o the_o full_a represent_v to_o you_o the_o exceed_a terribleness_n of_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n when_o awake_v by_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n plead_v and_o pursue_v a_o quarrel_n with_o the_o soul_n which_o quarrel_n he_o be_v infinite_o powerful_a to_o avenge_v it_o will_v be_v very_o suitable_a to_o be_v often_o inquire_v at_o ourselves_o what_o be_v become_v of_o the_o quarrel_n and_o what_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o confidence_n towards_o god_n be_v there_o we_o will_v all_o most_o certain_o and_o inavoidable_o be_v put_v on_o this_o great_a trial_n o_o suffer_v not_o yourselves_o to_o be_v so_o far_o delude_v as_o to_o think_v that_o a_o silent_a and_o stupid_a conscience_n be_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o have_v no_o danger_n with_o it_o which_o be_v as_o great_a folly_n as_o to_o think_v that_o a_o feeless_a and_o benumb_a member_n of_o the_o body_n be_v thereby_o in_o ●o_o danger_n nay_o the_o danger_n be_v so_o much_o the_o great_a 2_o observe_v that_o though_o all_o man_n natural_o be_v under_o thi●_n evil_a of_o a_o unpurged_a conscience_n yet_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n god_n have_v lay_v down_o a_o way_n how_o sinner_n may_v get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v this_o be_v the_o apostle_n scope_n in_o both_o these_o scripture_n even_o to_o lay_v a_o solid_a ground_n for_o the_o consolation_n of_o believer_n and_o for_o a_o high_a commendation_n of_o god_n grace_n viz._n that_o by_o application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n there_o be_v as_o a_o real_a purge_n of_o the_o conscience_n from_o sin_n win_v at_o as_o there_o be_v access_n make_v to_o person_n ceremonial_o unclean_a by_o these_o sacrifice_n and_o wash_n under_o the_o law_n to_o external_a church-priviledge_n be_v ceremonia_o cleanse_v thereby_o which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o the_o sin_n commit_v have_v never_o real_o and_o actual_o be_v so_o as_o the_o purge_a believer_n shall_v neither_o remember_v it_o nor_o repent_v of_o it_o that_o be_v not_o at_o all_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o doctrine_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v legal_o that_o as_o to_o the_o remove_n of_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o as_o to_o his_o have_a peace_n with_o god_n and_o in_o his_o own_o conscience_n it_o be_v purge_v so_o as_o sin_n can_v stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o his_o expect_a god_n favour_n nor_o simple_o in_o the_o way_n of_o his_o delight_a himself_o therein_o more_o than_o if_o it_o have_v never_o be_v though_o the_o man_n be_v the_o debtor_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o way_n lay_v down_o in_o the_o gospel_n covenant_n to_o declare_v he_o free_a even_o as_o a_o man_n that_o have_v play_v the_o dyvour_n or_o bankrupt_a though_o he_o can_v simple_o and_o in_o all_o respect_n be_v make_v as_o if_o he_o have_v never_o be_v so_o yet_o by_o another_o pay_n of_o the_o debt_n he_o be_v before_o the_o judge_n acquit_v and_o be_v reckon_v free_a of_o the_o debt_n as_o if_o it_o have_v never_o be_v contract_v or_o owe_v and_o as_o to_o any_o effect_n that_o may_v in_o law_n follow_v on_o it_o to_o his_o prejudice_n just_o so_o be_v it_o here_o with_o the_o sinner_n that_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o the_o word_n purge_v sufficient_o hold_v it_o out_o especial_o when_o it_o be_v join_v with_o come_v with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n for_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v to_o such_o a_o sinner_n how_o can_v thou_o how_o dare_v thou_o come_v to_o god_n with_o such_o confidence_n that_o have_v a_o ill_a conscience_n through_o so_o much_o sin_n he_o answer_v let_v we_o draw_v near_o or_o come_v have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n so_o that_o as_o to_o a_o confident_a approach_n to_o god_n and_o application_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n person_n who_o have_v make_v application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v may_v come_v to_o god_n with_o as_o much_o holy_a and_o humble_a boldness_n as_o if_o the_o conscience_n have_v never_o be_v defile_v and_o pollure_v and_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o saint_n who_o in_o this_o way_n have_v find_v peace_n and_o confidence_n be_v a_o great_a evidence_n and_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o 3_o to_o come_v a_o little_a near_o we_o may_v observe_v in_o the_o negative_a that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v once_o have_v his_o conscience_n defile_v and_o pollute_v with_o sin_n to_o be_v cleanse_v and_o purge_v from_o it_o but_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n if_o we_o look_v through_o this_o 9th_o chapter_n from_o the_o beginning_n and_o the_o follow_a 10_o chapter_n we_o will_v find_v that_o the_o apostle_n scope_n be_v to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o blood_n of_o bull_n or_o of_o calf_n nor_o any_o one_o or_o all_o of_o these_o ceremonial_a sacrifice_n wash_n or_o purgation_n that_o can_v do_v the_o business_n as_o he_o more_o particular_o clear_v five_o 9_o of_o the_o 9_o chap._n where_o the_o apostle_n insinuat_v that_o though_o god_n appoint_v many_o mean_n and_o midst_n of_o purgation_n yet_o if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o more_o but_o these_o they_o can_v never_o have_v effect_v the_o perfyte_n of_o a_o man_n as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v only_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n that_o have_v this_o effect_n and_o this_o one_o reason_n will_v confirm_v it_o viz._n that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o thing_n but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n and_o remove_v the_o quarrel_n that_o be_v betwixt_o he_o and_o the_o guilty_a sinner_n it_o be_v he_o only_o in_o who_o god_n be_v well_o please_v he_o be_v our_o peace_n and_o there_o be_v no_o name_n under_o heaven_n give_v whereby_o a_o sinner_n can_v be_v save_v but_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n and_o till_o god_n be_v satisfy_v the_o conscience_n can_v be_v quiet_a see_v then_o that_o nothing_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n bu●_n his_o blood_n there_o can_v nothing_o purge_v and_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n but_o it_o therefore_o david_n pray_v psal._n 51._o purge_v i_o with_o hyssop_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v clean_o where_o he_o all●ds_v and_o look_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v ●ypifyed_v by_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o blood_n with_o a_o bunsh_fw-mi of_o hyssop_n under_o the_o law_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v here_o as_o the_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n
conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o and_o if_o at_o any_o time_n the_o conscience_n of_o the_o christian_a be_v defile_v and_o wound_v by_o new_a contract_a pollution_n and_o guilt_n and_o challenge_n begin_v thence_o to_o arise_v and_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o will_v be_v on_o all_o such_o occasion_n fresh_a believe_a application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o thereby_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n purge_v from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o endeavour_n will_v be_v renew_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n to_o walk_v more_o tender_o without_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n towards_o which_o these_o sermon_n abound_v with_o variety_n of_o choice_n and_o excellent_a direction_n and_o help_n three_o and_o more_o particular_o we_o will_v study_v to_o have_v our_o conscience_n well_o and_o thorough_o inform_v by_o intimate_fw-la acquaintance_n with_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o all_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o believe_v and_o do_v so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o case_n to_o discharge_v its_o office_n and_o duty_n aright_o whether_o in_o dictate_v or_o in_o testify_v or_o in_o judge_v a_o ill_a inform_v conscience_n especial_o where_o there_o be_v any_o zeal_n or_o forwardness_n strong_o push_v and_o surious_o drive_v man_n to_o many_o dangerous_a distract_a and_o destructive_a practice_n have_v not_o this_o drive_a man_n to_o kill_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n as_o himself_o foretell_v and_o in_o do_v so_o to_o think_v that_o they_o do_v god_n service_n do_v not_o this_o hurry_n on_o paul_n before_o his_o conversion_n to_o persecute_v caller_n on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o to_o make_v havoc_n of_o the_o church_n by_o draw_v and_o drag_v the_o disciple_n both_o man_n and_o woman_n bind_v to_o prison_n and_o by_o cruel_a persecute_v of_o they_o even_o to_o strange_a city_n compel_v they_o to_o blaspheme_v so_o exceed_o mad_a be_v he_o as_o himself_o confess_v against_o they_o o_o what_o terrible_a and_o tragical_a thing_n have_v this_o set_a man_n on_o to_o do_v and_o what_o m●d_a work_n have_v it_o make_v in_o some_o place_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o many_o lesser_a impertinency_n extravagancy_n and_o disturbance_n in_o particular_a christian_a society_n four_o we_o will_v endeavour_v to_o have_v the_o conscience_n deep_o impress_v with_o due_a and_o dee●_n u●neration_n awe_n and_o dread_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n the_o supreme_a lord_n of_o and_o great_a lawgiver_n to_o the_o conscience_n who_o law_n and_o command_n be_v only_o proper_o direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o obligatory_a thereof_o because_o the_o conscience_n and_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v proper_o subject_a only_o to_o god_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o moreover_o because_o man_n can_v immediate_o judge_v the_o conscience_n nor_o know_v they_o the_o secret_a motion_n thereof_o and_o final_o because_o he_o can_v only_o inflict_v spiritual_a punishment_n on_o the_o sin_v conscience_n all_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o man_n in_o what_o ever_o capacity_n be_v only_o obligatory_a of_o the_o conscience_n mediate_o indirect_o and_o consequential_o viz._n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v consistent_a compliant_a and_o agreeable_a with_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o the_o absolute_o supreme_a lawgiver_n or_o not_o repugnant_a thereunto_o for_o certain_o he_o have_v not_o give_v a_o dispensation_n to_o any_o power_n on_o earth_n civil_a or_o ecclesiastic_a to_o countermand_v his_o command_n or_o to_o enjoin_v obedience_n ●o_o command_v contrary_a to_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o his_o own_o who_o command_n be_v immediate_o and_o inviolable_o bind_v of_o the_o conscience_n of_o superior_n and_o magistrate_n though_o the_o great_a monarch_n on_o earth_n as_o well_o as_o of_o inferior_n and_o subject_n all_o without_o exception_n be_v inferior_n and_o subject_n to_o he_o yet_o such_o law_n of_o man_n as_o do_v either_o press_v or_o declare_v the_o command_n and_o law_n of_o god_n and_o make_v for_o the_o conservation_n and_o observation_n thereof_o oblige_v in_o conscience_n because_o such_o law_n as_o they_o be_v such_o participate_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o force_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v direct_o and_o immediate_o command_v subjection_n to_o the_o superior_a power_n therefore_o even_o in_o reference_n to_o the●●njust_a law_n and_o such_o as_o be_v repugnant_a to_o or_o 〈◊〉_d with_o the_o divine_a law_n subject_n be_v oblige_v in_o 〈◊〉_d not_o to_o re●use_v obedience_n to_o they_o out_o of_o any_o contempt_n of_o lawful_a authority_n let_v ●e_n to_o disca●m_v an●_n renounce_v the_o same_o as_o some_o poor_a seduce_v and_o delude_v person_n do_v in_o these_o day_n ●ther_o ou●_n of_o ignorance_n or_o humour_n or_o misguide●_n zeal_n to_o the_o great_a reproach_n of_o religion_n not_o to_o admit_v 〈◊〉_d any_o thing_n that_o m●_n have_v in_o it_o the_o 〈◊〉_d appearance_n of_o offence_n and_o scandal_n that_o way_n because_o the_o contempt_n o●_n lawful_a authority_n and_o the_o ●andal_n of_o other_o be_v in_o themselves_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o still_o as_o no_o ●eer_n humane_a law_n do_v direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o as_o i_o say_v bind_v the_o conscience_n so_o neither_o have_v god_n give_v a_o power_n to_o any_o of_o the_o superior_a power_n on_o earth_n to_o enjoy_v obedience_n to_o command_n that_o be_v cross_a to_o his_o own_o injunction_n which_o all_o be_v oblige_v indispensable_o to_o obey_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o strange_a but_o even_o stupendous_a for_o any_o christian_n especial_o such_o as_o pretend_v to_o be_v protestant_n confident_o to_o assert_v and_o bol●●o_o publish_v to_o the_o world_n as_o mr._n hobbs_n do_v in_o his_o leviathan_n a_o book_n design_v by_o he_o as_o i_o have_v be_v inform_v to_o compliment_n cromwell_n against_o the_o writer_n own_o conscience_n such_o as_o it_o be_v p._n 168._o that_o no_o private_a man_n be_v judge_v of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n in_o a_o common_a wealth_n under_o civil_a law_n and_o that_o the_o mea●ure_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n be_v the_o civil_a law_n of_o action_n civilv_v good_a why_o not_o but_o of_o action_n simple_o good_a and_o evil_n as_o his_o assertion_n carry_v wh●_n what_o reason_n or_o shadow_n of_o reason_n god_n never_o have_v give_v no●_n assign_v such_o a_o rule_n we_o may_v thus_o throw_v away_o ou●_n bibles_n as_o the_o rule_n of_o good_a and_o eull_a arion_n and_o all_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o the_o civil_a law_n as_o the_o only_a rule_n and_o the_o legis_fw-la l●tor_fw-la the_o alone_a judge_n since_o he_o may_v as_o well_o divest_v a_o man_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o unman_n he_o as_o deprive_v he_o of_o a_o private_a judgement_n of_o discretion_n or_o of_o a_o private_a discretive_a judgement_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o own_o action_n the_o so●er_a exercise_n whereof_o be_v no_o assume_v to_o himself_o in_o ●he_n least_o the_o capaci●e_n of_o a_o public_a judge_n and_o it_o at_o any_o time_n in_o any_o thing_n rela●ing_v to_o ●is_n 〈◊〉_d act_n this_o judgement_n of_o private_a discretion_n fall_v to_o thwart_v the_o law_n or_o public_a judgement_n he_o adven●es_v on_o that_o cum_fw-la peric●lo_fw-la or_o on_o his_o pe●l_n but_o it_o can_v in_o reason_n utter_o rob_v he_o of_o it_o since_o as_o be_v say_v he_o can_v as_o soon_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o man_n or_o a_o rational_a creature_n as_o to_o have_v that_o quite_o deny_v he_o or_o take_v from_o he_o &_o to_o what_o end_n or_o purpose_n shall_v he_o be_v privilege_v with_o this_o above_o brute_n i●_n the_o exercise_n of_o ●t_a shall_v be_v for_o ever_o suspend_v in_o the_o member_n of_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n as_o almo●_n all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n be_v what_o sound_a and_o orthodox_n divine_a or_o sound_v christian_a lawyer_n ever_o teach_v such_o doctrine_n the_o learned_a doctor_n ames_n tell●_n we_o in_o the_o 4._o co_z olary_o and_o very_o last_o word_n of_o his_o first_o book_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n that_o interpretatio_fw-la scripturae_fw-la vel_fw-la judicium_fw-la ●scernere_fw-la voluntatem_fw-la dei_fw-la pertinet_fw-la ad_fw-la quemlibet_fw-la in_o foro_fw-la consc●tiae_fw-la pro_fw-la 〈◊〉_d and_o page_n 169._o of_o the_o forecited_n book_n the_o same_o hobbs_n say_v that_o he_o who_o be_v subject_a to_o no_o civil_a law_n sin_v in_o ●ll_o that_o ●e_n do_v against_o his_o conscience_n yet_o ●t_a be_v not_o so_o with_o he_o who_o live_v in_o a_o common_a
half_a of_o his_o kingdom_n who_o ask_v at_o her_o mother_n instigation_n the_o head_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n which_o be_v of_o more_o worth_n than_o the_o whole_a let_v be_v the_o half_a of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o he_o judge_v himself_o bind_v by_o his_o oath_n to_o grant_v her_o desire_n according_o give_v order_v it_o be_v say_v for_o his_o oath_n sake_n to_o the_o executioner_n to_o behead_v he_o in_o the_o prison_n without_o any_o trial_n or_o so_o much_o as_o a_o hear_n though_o it_o be_v indeed_o against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o natural_a conscience_n he_o have_v be_v convince_v that_o he_o be_v not_o only_o a_o innocent_a but_o also_o a_o just_a man_n and_o holy_a and_o according_o observe_v he_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n enjoin_v he_o by_o john_n and_o hear_v he_o glad_o as_o if_o unlawful_a and_o sinful_a oath_n rash_o come_v under_o can_v in_o conscience_n bind_v man_n to_o act_v against_o the_o plain_a and_o most_o palpable_a dictate_v of_o their_o own_o conscience_n whereas_o they_o ought_v rather_o to_o repent_v and_o pray_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o such_o engadgement_n vow_n and_o oath_n and_o forthwith_o to_o break_v they_o since_o juramentum_fw-la nunquam_fw-la potest_fw-la esse_fw-la vinculum_fw-la iniquitatis_fw-la a_o oath_n can_v never_o be_v a_o bond_n of_o iniquity_n or_o oblige_v man_n in_o conscience_n to_o commit_v what_o be_v palpable_o a_o sin_n ten_o we_o will_v be_v aware_a that_o we_o do_v not_o inconsiderat_o rash_o and_o precipitant_o adventure_v upon_o any_o action_n or_o meddle_v with_o any_o bussiness_n especial_o of_o moment_n before_o deliberat_fw-la and_o serious_a consult_v with_o our_o conscience_n endeavour_v always_o to_o have_v it_o well_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n which_o either_o make_v many_o such_o act_n and_o meddling_n to_o be_v afterward_o reflect_v on_o with_o a_o challenge_v and_o disquiet_v conscience_n or_o tempt_v we_o to_o endeavour_v the_o byass_a and_o bribe_v as_o it_o be_v of_o our_o own_o conscience_n towards_o a_o sort_n of_o justify_v we_o in_o what_o we_o have_v do_v or_o if_o neither_o of_o these_o shall_v be_v which_o seldom_o come_v to_o pass_v we_o be_v great_o in_o hazard_n to_o be_v very_o loath_a reluctant_a and_o shy_a to_o hear_v and_o lay_v due_a weight_n upon_o the_o after_o animadversion_n and_o censure_n of_o our_o conscience_n upon_o these_o act_n and_o medling_n be_v over_o and_o by_o and_o not_o now_o reversible_a o_o how_o safe_a and_o sure_o may_v we_o be_v in_o all_o our_o act_n moving_n and_o medling_n and_o with_o how_o much_o peace_n may_v we_o reflect_v on_o they_o if_o we_o do_v always_o call_v and_o admit_v god_n testimony_n and_o our_o own_o conscience_n enlighten_v and_o inform_v by_o they_o to_o be_v our_o adviser_n and_o counselor_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o make_v many_o rugged_a disorderly_a irregular_a and_o unpeacable_a step_n in_o our_o walk_n that_o man_n only_o walk_v sure_o that_o walk_v upright_o in_o single_a and_o unbiased_a compliance_n with_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n and_o of_o his_o own_o conscience_n conform_v thereunto_o most_o certain_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o consultation_n with_o such_o counselor_n there_o be_v safety_n eleven_o we_o will_v careful_o take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o baffle_v and_o prostitute_v conscience_n either_o by_o swear_v at_o all_o by_o our_o conscience_n let_v be_v ordinarl_o and_o customary_o too_o much_o incident_a to_o many_o pro●est_a christian_n to_o the_o great_a scandal_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o beside_o the_o un-necessariness_a of_o it_o at_o least_o in_o most_o case_n be_v never_o in_o any_o case_n warrantable_a conscience_n though_o god_n deputy_n be_v but_o a_o creature_n as_o heaven_n earth_n and_o our_o head_n be_v math._n 5._o v._n 34_o 35_o 36._o by_o which_o we_o ought_v not_o at_o all_o to_o swear_v be_v express_o forbid_v by_o the_o lord_n to_o do_v so_o and_o so_o never_o to_o be_v swear_v by_o swear_v being_n a_o piece_n and_o a_o very_a solemn_a piece_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o often_o put_v for_o the_o whole_a worship_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n where_o we_o be_v call_v to_o swear_v by_o he_o only_o deut._n 6._o v_o 13._o and_o 20._o v_o 10._o or_o where_o swear_v by_o it_o be_v much_o or_o altogether_o abstain_v from_o &_o it_o may_v be_v somewhat_o abhor_v yet_o we_o will_v not_o there_fw-mi to_o debase_v vilify_v and_o as_o i_o say_v to_o prostitute_v conscience_n ordinary_o &_o on_o every_o light_n &_o trivial_a occasion_n by_o say_v in_o conscience_n or_o on_o my_o conscience_n which_o in_o common_a discourse_n without_o any_o the_o least_o necessity_n be_v sure_o more_o than_o yea_o and_o nay_o and_o so_o according_a to_o the_o lord_n own_o determination_n precisly_a to_o be_v stand_v too_o come_v of_o evil_a neither_o will_v they_o real_o be_v find_v to_o be_v among_o the_o tender_a or_o most_o true_o religious_a and_o conscientious_a person_n whatever_o be_v their_o profession_n of_o or_o pretension_n to_o religion_n or_o conscience_n to_o who_o this_o be_v most_o familiar_a for_o by_o this_o customary_a and_o habitual_a solemn_a assert_v every_o light_n minute_n and_o trifle_a matter_n when_o withal_o it_o be_v offensive_a to_o tender_a ear_n man_n may_v be_v tempt_v in_o other_o thing_n to_o make_v too_o bold_a with_o their_o conscience_n which_o they_o thus_o debase_v if_o not_o even_o upon_o such_o petty_a occasion_n now_o and_o then_o to_o swear_v by_o it_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a tender_a thing_n and_o will_v be_v very_o tender_o deal_v with_o and_o in_o nothing_o in_o the_o least_o bourded_a or_o dally_v with_o and_o we_o be_v express_o command_v to_o abstain_v from_o all_o appearance_n of_o evil_n 1_o thes._n 5._o v._n 22._o twelve_o and_o final_o we_o will_v by_o all_o mean_n take_v heed_n and_o beware_v that_o we_o do_v not_o mock_v deride_v or_o flout_v at_o conscience_n and_o conscientious_a person_n which_o no_o man_n that_o have_v any_o conscience_n will_v dare_v to_o do_v no●_n to_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o nay_o the_o atheist_n himself_o as_o sir_n charles_n wools_o say_v well_o can_v with_o all_o his_o skill_n disband_v his_o own_o fear_n nor_o run_v away_o from_o his_o conscience_n no_o more_o than_o he_o can_v run_v away_o from_o himself_o he_o find_v season_n wherein_o he_o smart_v under_o the_o lash_n of_o it_o no●_n take_v up_o entertain_v and_o harbour_v any_o prejudice_n and_o pique_n at_o they_o as_o if_o such_o by_o the_o tenderness_n doubt_n and_o scruple_n of_o their_o conscience_n disturb_v the_o repose_n peace_n tranquillity_n and_o free_a act_n of_o all_o the_o country_n corporation_n and_o society_n great_a and_o small_a wherein_o they_o live_v and_o make_v a_o very_a unpleasant_a unchearful_a and_o disquiet_v life_n to_o the_o person_n themselves_o or_o to_o think_v that_o it_o be_v a_o great_a advantage_n to_o the_o world_n that_o all_o such_o person_n be_v out_o of_o it_o or_o cluster_v together_o by_o themselves_o only_o in_o some_o remote_a corner_n of_o it_o for_o who_o nice_a and_o straight_o lace_v as_o they_o call_v it_o conscience_n and_o its_o inquiry_n scruple_n and_o doubt_n they_o can_v get_v leave_n to_o live_v quiet_a and_o to_o act_v with_o that_o freedom_n they_o will_v be_v at_o alas_o if_o such_o have_v their_o desire_n and_o all_o doubt_n check_n and_o restraint_n of_o conscience_n be_v remove_v from_o man_n what_o confusion_n disorder_n and_o distraction_n will_v the_o world_n run_v into_o how_o instant_o will_v it_o be_v turn_v into_o a_o very_a shambles_n how_o will_v man_n the_o great_a part_n of_o man_n turn_v like_o roar_a lion_n and_o raven_a wolf_n as_o cruel_a tiger_n or_o savage_a wild_a boar_n one_o to_o another_o how_o will_v it_o be_v fill_v with_o violence_n rapine_n and_o blood_n how_o will_v the_o great_a and_o most_o abominable_a villainy_n walk_v up_o and_o down_o in_o it_o in_o the_o very_a street_n and_o concurse_n of_o the_o people_n un_fw-fr control_v barefaced_a not_o in_o masquerad_a or_o under_o any_o disguise_n how_o will_v reasonable_a man_n be_v as_o so_o many_o incarnate_a devil_n or_o bruit_n beast_n such_o will_v take_v heed_n that_o this_o be_v not_o find_v to_o be_v the_o interpretative_a language_n of_o these_o thought_n o_o that_o there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n god_n deputy_n in_o man_n in_o the_o world_n and_o o_o that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o god_n to_o appoint_v commissional_a and_o establish_v such_o deputy_n under_o he_o i_o shall_v not_o deny_v have_v plain_o assert_v it_o before_o that_o a_o ill_a inform_v conscience_n wait_v especial_o with_o any_o forwardness_n may_v make_v very_o sad_a work_n among_o man_n and_o prove_v a_o very_a troublesome_a and_o cumbersome_a neighbour_n but_o alas_o why_o shall_v
the_o blame_v be_v lay_v on_o conscience_n as_o conscience_n what_o evil_a have_v innocent_a conscience_n do_v the_o general_a great_a advantage_n that_o come_v to_o the_o world_n with_o the_o many_o mischief_n that_o be_v keep_v of_o it_o by_o conscience_n be_v infinite_o great_a and_o more_o valuable_a than_o any_o little_a prejudices_fw-la and_o disadvantage_n that_o now_o and_o then_o here_o and_o there_o come_v by_o the_o ill_a inform_v turbulent_n conscience_n of_o some_o particular_a person_n neither_o will_v i_o altogether_o deny_v but_o the_o tender_a conscience_n of_o true_o godly_a man_n may_v sometime_o dispose_v they_o to_o jealous_a and_o suspect_v themselves_o where_o they_o be_v not_o indeed_o guilty_a as_o it_o do_v the_o eleven_o honest_a disciple_n when_o the_o lord_n tell_v they_o that_o one_o of_o the_o twelve_o shall_v betray_v he_o and_o through_o some_o weakness_n may_v now_o and_o then_o disquiet_a and_o give_v they_o the_o alarm_n when_o there_o be_v little_a or_o no_o ground_n for_o it_o but_o i_o must_v say_v that_o this_o may_v be_v very_o easy_o dispense_v and_o bear_v with_o since_o that_o little_a damnage_n if_o it_o may_v be_v call_v so_o will_v be_v easy_o and_o quick_o compense_v by_o its_o give_v the_o alarm_n and_o cause_v suitable_a disquiet_n when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o here_o a_o tender_a conscience_n may_v be_v resemble_v to_o a_o vigilant_a and_o strict_a sentinal_n set_v to_o watch_v a_o house_n lie_v in_o midst_n of_o thief_n and_o robber_n who_o will_v sometime_o on_o a_o mistake_n awake_a and_o alarm_n and_o it_o may_v be_v at_o midnight_n raise_v all_o the_o family_n and_o put_v they_o into_o some_o fright_n as_o if_o thief_n and_o robber_n be_v break_v in_o upon_o they_o but_o they_o think_v the_o less_o of_o this_o and_o bea●_n the_o better_a with_o it_o a●_n be_v sure_o that_o when_o the_o thief_n or_o robber_n come_v in_o very_a deed_n he_o will_v give_v they_o the_o alarm_n and_o there_o be_v very_o few_o or_o none_o that_o will_v not_o far_o rather_o chu●e_a to_o have_v one_o or_o two_o yea_o several_a false_a alarm_n though_o somewhat_o disquiet_v then_o to_o want_v a_o true_a one_o when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o and_o when_o by_o mean_n thereof_o they_o may_v prevent_v the_o cut_n of_o their_o throat_n or_o spoil_v of_o their_o good_n let_v then_o the_o conscience_n be_v well_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n let_v its_o dictate_v according_a thereunto_o be_v tender_o comply_v with_o and_o none_o of_o they_o counteracted_a and_o let_v its_o check_n challenge_n accusation_n with_o its_o answer_n testimony_n and_o excuse_n according_a to_o their_o respective_a ground_n and_o reason_n be_v careful_o listen_v to_o and_o admit_v in_o a_o word_n let_v all_o study_v once_o to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o be_v always_o exercise_v to_o keep_v it_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n and_o then_o great_a honour_n and_o glory_n will_v redound_v to_o god_n the_o lord_n and_o sovereign_n of_o the_o conscience_n suitable_a and_o due_a deference_n will_v be_v give_v to_o his_o word_n as_o that_o whereby_o the_o conscience_n be_v right_o inform_v the_o peace_n of_o man_n own_o conscience_n will_v flow_v as_o a_o river_n the_o offend_a and_o stumble_v of_o other_o will_v be_v much_o prevent_v the_o profession_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n will_v be_v much_o adorn_v and_o beautify_v and_o man_n of_o all_o rank_n station_n capacity_n and_o relation_n as_o magistrate_n and_o subject_n pastor_n and_o flock_n husband_n and_o wife_n parent_n and_o child_n master_n and_o servant_n teacher_n and_o scholar_n buyer_n and_o seller_n etc._n etc._n will_v be_v blessing_n from_o god_n one_o to_o another_o which_o will_v make_v a_o little_a heaven_n upon_o earth_n to_o all_o which_o these_o few_o excellent_a se●mons_n be_v singular_o contributive_a that_o they_o may_v therefore_o come_v with_o a_o special_a blessing_n to_o all_o the_o reader_n of_o they_o and_o more_o particular_o to_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o city_n of_o glass_n gow_n where_o they_o be_v preach_v many_o year_n ago_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o novemb_n 1._o 1684._o your_o servant_n in_o the_o gospel_n 1._o c._n in_o the_o epistle_n page_n 5._o l._n 4_o r._n renew_v p._n 20._o l._n 29._o r._n r●epresentces_n p._n 20._o l._n 6._o 1._o 1_o tim._n l._n last_o r._n professor_n p._n 22._o l._n 6._o r._n upon_o the_o conscience_n heaven_n upon_o earth_n in_o a_o serene_a and_o smile_v good_a conscience_n sermon_n i._n act_n 24._o vers._n 16._o and_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o singular_o good_a companion_n the_o worth_n and_o benefit_n whereof_o be_v not_o ready_o so_o well_o know_v till_o man_n be_v bring_v into_o some_o strait_n then_o indeed_o the_o pass_a great_a and_o singular_a worth_n and_o usefulness_n of_o it_o clear_o discover_v itself_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n case_n here_o who_o be_v arraign_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o a_o heathen_a judge_n and_o have_v many_o enemy_n and_o these_o too_o of_o his_o own_o nation_n have_v deliver_v he_o up_o among_o other_o ground_n of_o consolation_n and_o defence_n that_o he_o have_v to_o sustain_v himself_o by_o this_o be_v one_o and_o not_o the_o least_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d do_v bear_v he_o witness_v that_o it_o be_v his_o endeavour_n and_o work_v to_o live_v so_o before_o god_n and_o man_n that_o he_o may_v not_o have_v a_o challenge_n from_o it_o and_o this_o make_v he_o speak_v bold_o against_o all_o his_o accuser_n and_o be_v better_a to_o he_o and_o more_o valueable_a than_o all_o the_o argument_n and_o rhetorical_a discourse_n that_o a_o tertullus_n yea_o a_o tully_n or_o the_o most_o eloquent_a orator_n in_o the_o world_n can_v have_v use_v for_o he_o these_o word_n hold_v out_o a_o compend_n and_o sum_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n and_o a_o excellent_a partern_a for_o believer_n herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o etc._n etc._n where_o we_o have_v these_o three_o thing_n considerable_a first_o the_o apostle_n great_a design_n and_o aim_n viz._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n that_o he_o may_v so_o walk_v as_o never_o to_o offend_v his_o conscience_n nor_o to_o give_v it_o a_o ill_a report_n to_o make_v of_o he_o second_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o design_n and_o aim_n and_o that_o ●n_o a_o twofold_a respect_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o object_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n i._o ●_o he_o will_v do_v duty_n to_o both_o and_o be_v find_v without_o offence_n to_o either_o 2._o in_o respect_n of_o all_o action_n company_n place_n and_o time_n he_o be_v so_o exercise_v always_o not_o after_o a_o sermon_n or_o communion_n only_o not_o under_o some_o heavy_a cross_n or_o after_o some_o notable_a outgate_n and_o delivery_n only_o but_o he_o aim_v design_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v so_o constant_o and_o equal_o thirldy_a the_o manner_n of_o his_o go_v about_o this_o herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o i._n e._n it_o be_v a_o business_n that_o take_v he_o up_o and_o hold_v he_o serious_o at_o work_n he_o be_v as_o a_o man_n who_o fight_v for_o his_o life_n in_o a_o barras_n or_o at_o a_o single_a combat_n careful_o handle_v his_o arm_n even_o so_o do_v he_o carry_v and_o behave_v himself_o in_o all_o thing_n as_o if_o his_o life_n have_v stand_v on_o every_o action_n or_o word_n i_o shall_v at_o once_o and_o together_o propose_v several_a doctrine_n clear_o deducible_a from_o the_o text_n the_o prosecution_n whereof_o will_v help_v to_o clear_v both_o the_o word_n and_o the_o matter_n contain_v in_o they_o the_o first_o whereof_o be_v there_o be_v many_o sort_n of_o offence_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n that_o we_o be_v subject_a an●_n liable_a to_o the_o second_o be_v there_o be_v within_o every_o man_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o affect_v the_o man_n for_o it_o the_o three_o be_v whatever_o thing_n be_v offence_n towards_o god_n or_o man_n be_v also_o offensive_a to_o the_o conscience_n whatever_o sin_n strike_v against_o his_o law_n wound_v the_o conscience_n the_o four_o be_v it_o be_v a_o very_a good_a choice_n and_o excellent_a thing_n for_o a_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n always_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a thing_n at_o any_o time_n to_o have_v offence_n towards_o either_o of_o they_o lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n the_o five_o be_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o
all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v always_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n yea_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o duty_n but_o we_o may_v look_v on_o it_o as_o a_o excellent_a mean_n for_o advance_v of_o holiness_n the_o six_o be_v where_o man_n honest_o aim_v to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n always_o void_a of_o offence_n it_o will_v be_v a_o exercise_v and_o uptake_v thing_n the_o seven_o be_v where_o this_o exercise_n be_v neglect_v and_o not_o serious_o carry_v on_o the_o conscience_n be_v leave_v to_o stumble_v at_o and_o to_o abound_v with_o offence_n as_o for_o the_o first_o that_o there_o be_v many_o kind_n of_o offence_n which_o people_n be_v subject_a to_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n uncontroverted_a by_o all_o and_o we_o need_v say_v little_a of_o it_o only_o first_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o first_o table_n which_o be_v offence_n towards_o god_n be_v immediate_o against_o he_o and_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o second_o table_n which_o although_o they_o be_v against_o god_n yet_o immediate_o they_o touch_v and_o reflect_v on_o man_n 2._o there_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n that_o be_v secret_a which_o god_n only_o be_v witness_n to_o and_o there_o be_v open_a sin_n which_o scandalize_v man_n paul_n endeavour_v to_o eschew_v all_o these_o for_o all_o be_v ●ins_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o wound_a of_o the_o conscience_n the_o second_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n within_o every_o man_n which_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o affect_v he_o for_o it_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o that_o follow_v and_o have_v need_v to_o be_v more_o particular_o speak_v unto_o this_o truth_n than_o contain_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o man_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o way_n and_o walk_v hence_o it_o be_v say_v to_o bear_v witness_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o it_o be_v also_o say_v to_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v rom._n 2._o 15._o it_o witness_n for_o man_n and_o excuse_n and_o comfort_v they_o when_o they_o do_v well_o and_o witness_v against_o they_o accuse_v and_o reprove_v they_o when_o they_o do_v evil_a and_o so_o be_v to_o they_o as_o a_o check_n captor_n or_o censor_n the_o apostle_n aim_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n suppon_n that_o he_o and_o every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n and_o that_o it_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o thing_n and_o will_v take_v offence_n if_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o thwart_v with_o it_o we_o shall_v not_o in_o this_o place_n stand_v to_o debate_v what_o conscience_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o power_n or_o a_o faculty_n a_o habit_n or_o a_o act_n which_o as_o it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o for_o your_o edification_n so_o it_o will_v transcend_v the_o reach_n of_o many_o of_o you_o only_o in_o the_o general_n we_o may_v call_v it_o a_o power_n wherewith_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o his_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n 2._o we_o say_v ●ts_n according_o affect_v with_o every_o thing_n when_o the_o man_n do_v right_v it_o be_v please_v and_o when_o he_o do_v wrong_v its_o offend_a and_o wound_v as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o 10_o 11._o so_o 1_o sam._n 24._o 5._o it_o be_v say_v david_n heart_n smite_v he_o and_o prov._n 18._o 14._o this_o be_v call_v a_o wound_a spirit_n 3._o as_o it_o be_v affect_v so_o it_o affect_v the_o person_n when_o a_o man_n have_v do_v well_o it_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v evil_a and_o wrong_v it_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v he_o in_o which_o respect_n conscience_n be_v call_v a_o judge_n pronounce_v sentence_n by_o absolve_v or_o condemn_v man_n scripture_n and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o people_n and_o time_n clear_a and_o prove_v this_o 1._o the_o scripture_n say_v of_o heathen_n rom._n 2._o 15._o that_o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o excuse_v one_o another_o it_o hold_v out_o this_o to_o have_v be_v in_o adam_n who_o immediate_o after_o the_o fall_n gen._n 3._o 10._o say_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n and_o be_v afraid_a terror_n seize_v on_o he_o it_o mention_n this_o also_o to_o have_v be_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n who_o gen._n 42._o 21._o say_v we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n and_o in_o david_n in_o that_o forecited_a 1_o of_o sam._n 24._o 5._o where_o its_o say_a that_o his_o heart_n smite_v he_o it_o be_v clear_o also_o suppose_v 1_o john_n 3._o 19_o 20_o 21._o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n where_o we_o will_v take_v notice_n that_o what_o be_v here_o and_o sometime_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n call_v the_o heart_n be_v in_o the_o text_n and_o elsewhere_a call_v the_o conscience_n which_o suppose_v this_o to_o be_v in_o every_o man_n it_o be_v further_a clear_a from_o the_o daily_a experience_n of_o all_o in_o all_o time_n for_o sometime_o it_o be_v pouse_v to_o duty_n sometime_o it_o be_v challenge_v for_o the_o omission_n of_o duty_n or_o for_o commission_n of_o the_o contrary_a evil_n sometime_o it_o be_v speak_v peace_n sometime_o it_o be_v mar_v peace_n and_o denounce_v war_n as_o it_o be_v all_o which_o plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n so_o herod_n when_o he_o hear_v of_o christ_n miracle_n his_o conscience_n put_v he_o in_o mind_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n who_o he_o have_v behead_v and_o disquiet_v he_o with_o fear_n that_o john_n may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o the_o dead_a something_o of_o it_o appear_v likewise_o in_o achab_n when_o it_o put_v he_o to_o put_v on_o sackcloth_n all_o which_o i_o say_v plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n and_o beside_o full_a scripture-proof_n there_o be_v none_o but_o if_o they_o observe_v they_o will_v find_v their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n either_o accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v they_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a first_o to_o what_o this_o conscience_n be_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a satisfy_o to_o explain_v it_o 2._o to_o the_o use_n and_o end_n of_o it_o and_o why_o god_n have_v place_v this_o in_o man_n where_o we_o shall_v show_v the_o several_a sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v in_o man_n good_a and_o evil_n for_o the_o first_o to_o wit_n what_o conscience_n be_v we_o may_v for_o come_v at_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o consider_v the_o name_n conscience_n which_o signify_v a_o co-knowledge_n or_o a_o knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o our_o knowledge_n which_o we_o may_v consider_v first_o as_o look_v to_o god_n knowledge_n go_v alongst_o with_o we_o and_o we_o go_n alongst_o with_o he_o and_o thus_o it_o imply_v as_o his_o knowledge_n of_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o way_n so_o our_o knowledge_n together_o with_o his_o of_o these_o or_o our_o take_a notice_n of_o they_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o knowledge_n 2._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o reflex-knowledge_n join_v with_o a_o direct_a knowledge_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n have_v a_o direct_a knowledge_n of_o prayer_n as_o his_o duty_n and_o a_o reflex_n knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o the_o practice_n or_o exercise_v of_o the_o duty_n whereby_o he_o see_v and_o discern_v himself_o either_o to_o behave_v suitable_o in_o it_o or_o to_o be_v faulty_a in_o this_o respect_n conscience_n be_v a_o practical_a knowledge_n take_v notice_n by_o a_o reflex_n act_n of_o a_o man_n way_n 3._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o comprehend_v a_o knowledge_n of_o god_n law_n and_o then_o it_o signify_v a_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o compare_v with_o the_o law_n it_o have_v knowledge_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o so_o of_o what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o withal_o it_o have_v in_o it_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o and_o of_o our_o conformity_n or_o disconformity_n to_o the_o rule_n conscience_n then_o in_o this_o respect_n be_v a_o man_n knowledge_n of_o god_n will_v and_o of_o himself_o as_o compare_v with_o it_o 4._o we_o may_v consider_v this_o co_z knowledge_n as_o it_o suppose_v beside_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o the_o knowledge_n of_o something_o take_v notice_n of_o we_o or_o of_o something_o depute_v in_o we_o by_o god_n to_o keep_v a_o record_n
get_v no_o rest_n until_o the_o ●ll_a turn_n be_v do_v under_o pretext_n of_o keep_v his_o oath_n herod_n be_v predominant_o sway_v by_o these_o who_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o and_o will_v have_v it_o think_v that_o he_o be_v to_o be_v excuse_v because_o otherways_o he_o can_v not_o forsooth_o keep_v his_o oath_n who_o yet_o have_v break_v many_o a_o oath_n and_o make_v no_o bone_n of_o they_o for_o the_o second_o question_n how_o may_v the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v know_v and_o discern_v from_o the_o impulse_n of_o credit_n interest_n inclination_n will_n and_o affection_n answer_v by_o the_o word_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n isa._n 8._o 20_o conscience_n be_v subject_a to_o that_o and_o conscience_n never_o ready_o pouse_v against_o duty_n hold_v out_o by_o the_o word_n conscience_n will_v never_o bid_v heroa_fw-la take_v away_o the_o life_n of_o a_o innocent_a man_n 2._o if_o a_o man_n be_v dark_a and_o doubtful_a in_o a_o particular_a conscience_n as_o conscience_n be_v always_o single_a but_o credit_n interest_n and_o th●_n like_a have_v always_o some_o by-respect_n which_o steal_v in_o and_o drown_v conscience_n represent_v to_o it_o that_o such_o and_o such_o loss_n or_o prejudice_n will_v follow_v on_o such_o a_o thing_n interest_n and_o reputation_n will_v make_v a_o man_n say_v i_o will_v no●_n do_v such_o a_o thing_n if_o i_o can_v do_v otherways_o but_o shall_v i_o hazard_v all_o my_o estate_n and_o possible_o my_o life_n also_o this_o i_o may_v not_o do_v and_o when_o interest_n and_o particularity_n prevail_v they_o make_v he_o to_o step_v over_o conscience_n and_o to_o think_v that_o he_o do_v no_o fault_n when_o it_o be_v some_o particular_a hazard_n that_o sway_v he_o interest_n be_v satisfy_v from_o a_o suppose_a necessity_n but_o conscience_n acknowledge_v not_o that_o rule_n in_o outward_a thing_n when_o the_o man_n can_v do_v no_o other_o way_n it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o choose_v suffer_v 3._o when_o credit_n interest_n and_o the_o like_a pouss_n their_o impulse_n be_v partial_a and_o violent_a but_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v impartial_a and_o sober_a conscience_n sway_v the_o man_n pouse_v he_o from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o from_o love_n to_o he_o and_o to_o all_o that_o be_v know_v to_o be_v duty_n impartial_o as_o to_o pray_v read_v meditate_v confer_v etc._n etc._n but_o when_o interest_n credit_n or_o inclination_n sway_n he_o they_o will_v drive_v he_o to_o one_o thing_n and_o not_o to_o another_o and_o more_o especial_o to_o that_o which_o may_v satisfy_v his_o humour_n and_o that_o violent_o but_o for_o the_o more_o exercise_v duty_n of_o religion_n as_o to_o humble_v himself_o before_o god_n to_o repent_v of_o sin_n to_o meditate_v etc._n etc._n it_o do_v not_o pouss_n or_o but_o very_o cold_o and_o slow_o as_o some_o man_n will_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o provide_v for_o their_o family_n and_o they_o will_v ride_v and_o run_v for_o that_o but_o if_o any_o object_n of_o charity_n offer_v or_o if_o there_o be_v any_o hazard_n of_o loss_n for_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n sake_n these_o will_v be_v silent_a there_o or_o if_o conscience_n mutter_v it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o regard_v in_o what_o it_o say_v now_o if_o conscience_n swey_v the_o man_n here_o there_o will_v be_v a_o impartial_a respect_n have_v to_o one_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o to_o another_o 4._o where_o interest_n credit_n inclination_n or_o affection_n pour_v they_o drive_v not_o only_o violent_o and_o partial_o but_o irrational_o and_o can_v stay_v nor_o endure_v to_o reason_n and_o debate_v thing_n or_o to_o be_v dissuade_v from_o the_o thing_n towards_o which_o there_o be_v a_o inclination_n and_o will_n neither_o will_v give_v a_o hear_n to_o what_o may_v be_v say_v to_o the_o contrary_a but_o conscience_n in_o its_o impulse_n be_v rational_a and_o sober_a go_v to_o the_o word_n and_o will_v ha●e_v matter_n calm_o season_v and_o debate_v and_o be_v the_o better_o satisfy_v the_o better_a the_o business_n be_v debate_v and_o clear_v because_o it_o like_v and_o love_v rational_a service_n rom._n 12._o 1._o and_o therefore_o lay_v every_o thing_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o ready_o content_v with_o corruption_n with_o which_o inclination_n side_v 5._o when_o credit_n interest_n and_o inclination_n in_o their_o impulse_n be_v thwart_v they_o storm_v they_o vex_v and_o torture_v the_o man_n but_o when_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v thwart_v it_o have_v a_o kindly_a prick_n and_o stound_a the_o impulse_n of_o interest_n or_o inclination_n be_v thwart_v con●useth_v and_o put_v through_o other_o to_o spe●k_v so_o and_o be_v but_o a_o carnal_a fit_n of_o passion_n make_v ●rothy_a light_a and_o distempered_o passionate_a but_o it_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v thwart_v it_o weight_v and_o sting_v deep_o 6._o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n affect_v constant_o and_o chop_v even_o though_o sometime_o in_o its_o chap_a it_o will_v be_v more_o quick_a then_o at_o another_o time_n yet_o where_o it_o sway_v it_o leave_v not_o off_o but_o continue_v chap_a this_o year_n and_o the_o next_o and_o account_v a_o thing_n evil_a or_o good_a in_o another_o as_o well_o as_o in_o a_o man_n self_n and_o in_o himself_o as_o well_o as_o in_o another_o and_o at_o all_o time_n but_o when_o a_o man_n be_v pouss_v by_o credit_n interest_n inclination_n or_o affection_n he_o be_v like_o a_o distemper_a man_n in_o a_o fever_n who_o pulse_n beat_v not_o even_o he_o be_v not_o constant_a and_o equal_a but_o up_o or_o down_o as_o the_o particular_a that_o affect_v he_o 〈◊〉_d his_o humour_n or_o come_v near_o he_o as_o for_o instance_n a_o man_n sway_v by_o his_o interest_n will_v dispute_v for_o the_o government_n of_o such_o a_o person_n this_o year_n and_o for_o the_o government_n of_o another_o the_o next_o for_o such_o a_o interest_n this_o year_n and_o for_o a_o contrary_a one_o the_o next_o for_o one_o sort_n of_o government_n in_o church_n or_o state_n as_o best_a this_o year_n and_o for_o another_o as_o best_a the_o next_o because_o his_o own_o particular_a interest_n come_v in_o to_o side_n with_o it_o and_o so_o he_o change_v his_o principle_n according_a to_o his_o interest_n and_o dispute_v for_o one_o thing_n to_o day_n and_o for_o the_o contrary_a the_o next_o thus_o his_o interest_n forge_v and_o frame_v principle_n to_o maintain_v it_o which_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o such_o man_n great_a principle_n be_v their_o interest_n and_o that_o they_o be_v 〈◊〉_d sway_v from_o a_o native_a principle_n of_o conscience_n else_o they_o will_v be_v more_o even_o and_o constant_a therefore_o beware_v to_o take_v every_o impulse_n for_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n many_o man_n woeful_o abuse_v conscience_n by_o their_o pretension_n to_o it_o as_o if_o some_o weighty_a nay_o some_o extraordinary_a bond_n be_v on_o their_o conscience_n when_o as_o indeed_o inclination_n or_o affection_n or_o some_o other_o such_o thing_n pouss_v they_o on_o the_o three_o question_n be_v may_v not_o even_a conscience_n sometime_o err_v and_o go_v wrong_n may_v it_o not_o pouse_v to_o that_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a and_o shall_v it_o then_o be_v follow_v ans._n conscience_n may_v err_v or_o go_v wrong_v two_o way_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o light_n by_o think_v that_o which_o be_v wrong_a to_o be_v right_a 2._o in_o respect_n of_o practice_n in_o application_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o speak_v a_o word_n for_o clear_v of_o both_o and_o first_o in_o the_o general_a when_o we_o say_v that_o man_n shall_v walk_v according_a to_o their_o conscience_n we_o understand_v it_o of_o a_o conscience_n well_o inform_v and_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o duty_n as_o know_v its_o master_n will_v and_o do_v it_o for_o a_o wicked_a man_n may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o light_a to_o tell_v he_o what_o he_o shall_v do_v and_o to_o challenge_v he_o when_o he_o do_v wrong_a though_o yet_o he_o will_v not_o obey_v it_o therefore_o we_o say_v for_o a_o man_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v to_o have_v a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n and_o do_v duty_n according_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o there_o be_v ten_o sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o man_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o whereof_o five_o fail_v in_o the_o major_n or_o first_o proposition_n in_o respect_n of_o light_n and_o other_o five_o fa●l_n in_o the_o minor_a or_o second_o proposition_n in_o respect_n of_o practice_n or_o application_n the_o five_o sort_n that_o fail_v in_o the_o major_a proposition_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o light_n be_v these_o 1._o a_o err_v conscience_n when_o the_o judgement_n be_v misinform_v and_o account_v duty_n to_o to_o be_v sin_n and_o sin_n to_o be_v
christian_a walk_n according_a to_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d these_o seven_o particular_n 1._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v have_v a_o respect_n to_o all_o sort_n of_o duty_n in_o word_n thought_n and_o action_n for_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v for_o a_o idle_a word_n and_o for_o a_o sinful_a thought_n to_o simon_n act_v 8._o 22._o say_v the_o apostle_n pray_v god_n if_o perhaps_o the_o thought_n of_o thy_o hear●_n may_v be_v forgive_v thou_o which_o say_v that_o sinful_a thought_n may_v have_v influence_n to_o 〈◊〉_d the_o conscience_n and_o that_o a_o man_n who_o wou●d_v keep_v peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n shall_v dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o none_o of_o these_o 2._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a t●_n conscience_n must_v extend_v duty_n to_o all_o particular_n o●_n ever●_n kind_n to_o every_o thought_n every_o word_n and_o every_o action_n ●or_a according_a as_o conscience_n when_o in_o case_n be_v please_v or_o displease_v in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o in_o public_a in_o private_a in_o secret_a in_o 〈◊〉_d or_o small_a duty_n or_o ●ins_n so_o it_o will_v accuse_v or_o excuse_v so_o then_o as_o conscience_n regard_v al●_n duty_n and_o kind_n of_o they_o so_o it_o regard_v every_o particular_a of_o every_o kind_n 3._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v aim_v in_o his_o christian_a walk_n at_o the_o high_a degree_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o though_o he_o come_v short_a yet_o he_o must_v not_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o his_o short-coming_a in_o any_o of_o they_o for_o instance_n as_o he_o must_v love_v god_n so_o he_o must_v endeavour_v to_o love_v he_o with_o all_o his_o strength_n soul_n and_o mind_n and_o as_o he_o must_v be_v holy_a so_o he_o must_v aim_v to_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o to_o purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a in_o this_o respect_n the_o least_o defect_n will_v give_v conscience_n ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n and_o if_o he_o in_o the_o least_o but_o indirect_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o it_o it_o will_v breed_v a_o quarrel_n 4._o walk_v according_o to_o conscience_n tie_v a_o man_n to_o be_v in_o this_o aim_n and_o design_n always_o so_o as_o it_o allow_v of_o no_o intermission_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o study_v holiness_n in_o this_o or_o that_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o not_o in_o another_o or_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o not_o in_o prosperity_n but_o as_o the_o word_n be_v here_o in_o the_o t●xt_n he_o be_v always_o to_o exercise_v himself_o in_o this_o study_n and_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v live_v many_o year_n with_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n if_o he_o begin_v at_o last_o though_o i●_n be_v but_o now_o and_o then_o to_o take_v undue_a liberty_n conscience_n will_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o challenge_n for_o it_o because_o the_o word_n the_o superior_a of_o conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o it_o 5._o to_o walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n extend_v itself_o to_o all_o circumstance_n and_o qualification_n of_o duty_n it_o look_v not_o only_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v good_a but_o that_o it_o be_v spiritual_o prosecute_v in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o it_o will_v look_v to_o the_o man_n aim_n that_o it_o be_v single_a and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o will_v find_v fault_n it_o will_v look_v to_o his_o manner_n of_o do_v whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_a lively_a tender_a zealous_a etc._n etc._n in_o what_o he_o do_v and_o it_o will_v look_v from_o what_o principle_n he_o act_v from_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n or_o from_o a_o gift_n from_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o from_o christ_n and_o it_o will_v look_v to_o what_o be_v his_o end_n or_o aim_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v whether_o he_o be_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n to_o himself_o or_o to_o god_n whether_o his_o end_n be_v to_o please_v man_n and_o to_o have_v their_o approbation_n and_o applause_n or_o to_o glorify_v god_n and_o to_o approve_v to_o he_o whether_o it_o be_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o to_o honour_n god_n conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o these_o for_o sound_v its_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v and_o in_o this_o it_o differ_v from_o all_o court_n among_o man_n it_o will_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v where_o they_o will_v absolve_v &_o contra_fw-la 6._o conscience_n will_v put_v a_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o the_o mean_n opportunity_n and_o help_n whereby_o holiness_n may_v be_v further_v and_o if_o a_o man_n come_v short_a in_o the_o use_n of_o any_o mean_a it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o run_v the_o back_n trade_n as_o it_o be_v and_o to_o take_v with_o the_o guilt_n it_o will_v say_v man_n whither_o may_v thou_o not_o have_v have_v more_o knowledge_n have_v have_v so_o many_o opportunity_n to_o hear_v and_o learn_v have_v have_v such_o and_o such_o minister_n and_o christian_a friend_n to_o advise_v with_o and_o to_o be_v instruct_v by_o as_o the_o apostle_n have_v it_o heb._n 5._o 12._o 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9_o vers_fw-la 9_o with_o vers_n 14._o we_o will_v find_v this_o latter_a way_n and_o ●ot_n the_o former_a to_o be_v the_o only_a safe_a way_n these_o sacrifice_n that_o be_v offer_v year_n by_o year_n continual_o can_v never_o make_v the_o the_o comer_n thereunto_o perfect_a but_o have_v a_o highpriest_n over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n we_o may_v draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n and_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n these_o gift_n and_o sacrifice_n can_v not_o make_v they_o that_o do_v the_o service_n perfect_a as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o though_o the_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v a_o believer_n where_o there_o be_v defect_n in_o the_o fo●mer_a rule_n yet_o it_o be_v quiet_v and_o satisfy_v where_o there_o be_v serious_a and_o suitable_a application_n make_v to_o and_o of_o the_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o redeemer_n i●_n so_o be_v he_o dispense_v not_o with_o himself_o as_o to_o his_o short-coming_a in_o they_o and_o if_o the_o use_n that_o he_o make_v of_o his_o holiness_n in_o the_o large_a extent_n and_o high_a degree_n of_o it_o be_v not_o to_o found_v his_o righteousness_n thereon_o but_o to_o honour_n god_n thereby_o in_o gratitude_n to_o he_o to_o edify_v other_o and_o to_o evidence_n to_o himself_o the_o soundness_n and_o reality_n of_o his_o believe_a and_o gracious_a state_n this_o show_v the_o vast_a extent_n of_o holiness_n and_o what_o it_o be_v that_o man_n be_v call_v to_o and_o thereby_o we_o may_v also_o see_v that_o many_o sad_o mistake_v religion_n and_o what_o that_o perfect_a walk_n be_v that_o a_o christian_n ought_v to_o have_v before_o god_n and_o we_o may_v say_v on_o the_o whole_a if_o 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itself_o to_o proof_n and_o trial_n take_v the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o try_v it_o thereby_o and_o take_v the_o answer_n on_o deliberation_n and_o not_o off-hand_n or_o by_o guess_n because_o it_o know_v conscience_n be_v but_o a_o servant_n and_o therefore_o will_v try_v if_o it_o speak_v its_o master_n even_o god_n language_n to_o this_o purpose_n say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o i_o know_v nothing_o by_o myself_o yet_o be_o i_o not_o hereby_o justify_v it_o will_v either_o have_v conscience_n sentence_n and_o god_n sentence_n go_v together_o or_o else_o it_o will_v reject_v and_o cast_v it_o whereas_o the_o most_o part_n of_o man_n satisfy_v themselves_o with_o the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n and_o look_v not_o after_o god_n sentence_n and_o misinterpret_v conscience_n and_o take_v its_o first_o word_n as_o it_o be_v and_o put_v it_o not_o to_o the_o trial_n ah_o be_v not_o this_o true_a of_o many_o of_o your_o conscience_n you_o think_v you_o have_v peace_n and_o that_o all_o matter_n be_v clear_a and_o well_o betwixt_o god_n and_o you_o notwithstanding_o you_o be_v secure_a ignorant_a or_o profane_a but_o when_o do_v you_o put_v your_o conscience_n to_o the_o trial_n ask_v your_o conscience_n if_o in_o all_o the_o word_n of_o god_n peace_n be_v speak_v to_o the_o wicked_a or_o to_o any_o that_o be_v not_o sincere_o aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v holy_a consider_v that_o word_n psal._n 85._o vers_fw-la 8._o the_o lord_n will_v speak_v peace_n to_o his_o people_n and_o to_o his_o saint_n there_o be_v not_o one_o word_n of_o peace_n for_o the_o profane_a and_o unholy_a how_o then_o can_v your_o conscience_n possible_o speak_v peace_n if_o it_o presume_v to_o do_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o beguile_v you_o and_o therefore_o as_o you_o will_v not_o be_v deceive_v sollow_v not_o neither_o lay_v weight_n upon_o every_o word_n that_o conscience_n speak_v as_o to_o your_o state_n especial_o at_o first_o but_o try_v it_o 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right_a 2._o it_o have_v the_o affection_n somewhat_o stir_v by_o it_o and_o a_o sort_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o thing_n whereof_o it_o be_v persuade_v it_o be_v i_o say_v a_o conscience_n that_o not_o only_o speak_v good_a without_o ground_n but_o have_v a_o persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v right_a and_o a_o kind_n of_o joy_n in_o its_o way_n that_o there_o may_v be_v and_o be_v such_o a_o conscience_n among_o the_o generality_n of_o professor_n can_v be_v deny_v and_o be_v clear_a from_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v gal._n 5._o 3._o this_o persuasion_n come_v not_o of_o he_o that_o call_v you_o there_o be_v a_o persuasion_n and_o yet_o not_o of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o other_o to_o wit_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o joy_n in_o the_o thing_n see_v gal._n 3._o 1._o o_o foolish_a galatian_n who_o have_v bewitch_v you_o they_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o conceit_n and_o fainness_n even_o to_o a_o kind_a fascination_n and_o bewitch_v conceit_n of_o their_o be_v right_a neither_o be_v there_o any_o 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man_n lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o great_a though_o yet_o but_o common_a gift_n as_o on_o liberty_n in_o prayer_n and_o warmness_n of_o the_o ●_z therein_o on_o preach_v notable_o and_o one_o stand_v it_o out_o in_o sharp_a trial_n with_o the_o approbation_n of_o other_o it_o may_v be_v even_o of_o the_o best_a or_o when_o they_o have_v be_v help_v to_o do_v some_o extraordinary_a thing_n as_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n some_o professor_n be_v help_v as_o god_n instrument_n to_o cast_v out_o devil_n to_o speak_v with_o tongue_n etc._n etc._n who_o yet_o be_v not_o sound_v at_o the_o heart_n it_o be_v on_o this_o ground_n that_o christ_n go_v when_o he_o say_v luke_n 13._o 27._o and_o matth._n 7._o 22_o 23._o many_o shall_v come_v to_o i_o in_o that_o day_n say_v lord_n we_o have_v prophesy_v in_o thy_o name_n and_o in_o thy_o name_n have_v cast_v out_o devil_n and_o do_v many_o wonderful_a work_n all_o which_o be_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v but_o common_a gift_n though_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o extraordinary_a and_o when_o man_n come_v to_o have_v any_o measure_n of_o these_o beyond_o other_o they_o will_v not_o be_v beat_v from_o it_o but_o will_v go_v to_o death_n with_o it_o that_o all_o be_v right_a with_o they_o the_o 3d._n rise_v be_v from_o some_o suppose_a spiritual_a sense_n and_o comfort_n and_o from_o some_o flash_n of_o joy_n these_o temporary_a believer_n speak_v of_o matth._n 13._o and_o heb._n 6._o 4_o 5._o attain_v to_o some_o taste_n of_o the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v such_o as_o once_o come_v this_o length_n do_v what_o they_o will_v and_o live_v as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o as_o it_o be_v always_o sound_v in_o their_o ear_n nor_o suffer_v they_o it_o to_o go_v out_o of_o their_o head_n that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o day_n they_o meet_v with_o god_n and_o that_o he_o speak_v peace_n to_o they_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v persuade_v that_o matter_n be_v right_a betwixt_o he_o and_o they_o and_o yet_o all_o this_o while_n they_o may_v be_v unsound_a at_o the_o heart_n the_o four_o rise_v be_v from_o folk_n habituate_n themselves_o to_o speak_v good_a to_o themselves_o and_o from_o maintain_v their_o presumption_n and_o dull_v and_o deadn_v their_o own_o conscience_n whereupon_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n conscience_n become_v a_o plague_n to_o they_o so_o that_o they_o will_v dispute_v and_o debate_n with_o and_o against_o any_o minister_n neighbour_n or_o friend_n that_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o the_o evil_a and_o danger_n of_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n and_o the_o heart_n be_v by_o they_o thus_o deceive_v speak_v and_o plead_v for_o they_o and_o deceive_v they_o back_o again_o they_o be_v honest_a ●olks_n and_o be_v never_o hear_v with_o their_o neighbour_n none_o have_v any_o thing_n amiss_o to_o say_v of_o they_o and_o their_o own_o conscience_n justify_v they_o and_o what_o shall_v more_o thus_o have_v put_v out_o their_o light_n and_o blind_v their_o own_o eye_n they_o have_v constrain_v and_o some_o way_n necessitate_v their_o conscience_n to_o cheat_v deceive_v and_o beguile_v they_o such_o as_o these_o be_v speak_v of_o isa._n 44_o 20._o he_o feed_v on_o ash_n a_o deceive_a heart_n have_v turn_v he_o aside_o that_o he_o can_v deliver_v his_o soul_n nor_o say_v be_v there_o not_o a_o lie_n in_o my_o right_a hand_n the_o heart_n be_v ordinary_o take_v as_o be_v hint_v before_o for_o the_o conscience_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n according_o job_n say_v his_o heart_n shall_v not_o smite_v he_o while_o he_o live_v and_o it_o be_v say_v david_n heart_n smite_v he_o now_o such_o a_o man_n as_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o his_o deceive_a
heart_n or_o delude_v conscience_n turn_v he_o aside_o so_o that_o he_o can_v deliver_v his_o soul_n that_o be_v he_o can_v wind_v and_o extricat_fw-la himself_o out_o of_o that_o thicket_n of_o self_n deceit_n so_o far_o as_o to_o bespeak_v himself_o thus_o be_v it_o not_o a_o lie_n that_o i_o be_o lipn_v and_o trust_v to_o and_o yet_o this_o be_v it_o that_o many_o of_o you_o have_v for_o a_o good_a conscience_n even_o a_o deceive_a heart_n or_o a_o delude_a conscience_n speak_v to_o you_o who_o will_v or_o what_o we_o can_v it_o be_v in_o some_o respect_n impossible_a to_o put_v you_o off_o that_o ●ancie_n and_o to_o awake_v you_o out_o of_o that_o dream_n that_o you_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o delusion_n be_v that_o man_n take_v not_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n from_o god_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n but_o from_o their_o own_o mislead_a reason_n or_o from_o some_o common_a gift_n or_o from_o some_o piece_n of_o sense_n or_o some_o opinion_n and_o fancy_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o be_v in_o some_o sort_n deceive_v by_o they_o and_o deceive_v they_o now_o all_o these_o delusion_n may_v be_v in_o these_o three_o respect_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o thing_n doctrinal_a a_o man_n may_v be_v persuade_v that_o truth_n be_v a_o error_n and_o a_o error_n be_v a_o truth_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o matter_n of_o practice_n a_o man_n may_v take_v a_o evil_n turn_v or_o action_n for_o a_o good_a one_o and_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v so_o as_o the_o jew_n have_v in_o kill_v the_o apostle_n who_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n as_o the_o lord_n foretell_v john_n 16._o v_o 2._o and_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n who_o think_v he_o be_v in_o friendship_n with_o god_n when_o indeed_o he_o be_v not_o because_o he_o draw_v his_o conclusion_n from_o wrong_a premise_n either_o fail_v in_o the_o major_a proposition_n lay_v down_o a_o wrong_a rule_n or_o in_o the_o minor_a proposition_n apply_v the_o rule_n to_o himself_o partial_o these_o thing_n you_o shall_v take_v along_o with_o you_o in_o what_o we_o be_v to_o say_v further_o on_o this_o point_n now_o for_o the_o mark_n and_o evidence_n of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n beside_o these_o forementioned_a of_o a_o legal_a and_o of_o a_o presumptuous_a conscience_n which_o may_v be_v also_o mark_v of_o this_o it_o have_v these_o four_o or_o five_o especial_o accompany_v it_o 1._o a_o certain_a frothiness_n of_o spirit_n or_o a_o light_n unsettle_a frame_n the_o light_n that_o a_o delude_a man_n have_v in_o his_o state_n or_o way_n be_v but_o like_o a_o dream_n that_o have_v no_o reality_n in_o it_o he_o feed_v on_o ash_n and_o such_o a_o one_o will_v some_o way_n make_v more_o conscience_n of_o and_o take_v more_o pleasure_n in_o that_o wherein_o he_o be_v delude_v then_o in_o any_o other_o p●ece_n or_o practice_n of_o religion_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o jew_n in_o persecute_v the_o apostle_n and_o with_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n in_o seek_v to_o gain_v a_o prosylite_n and_o yet_o in_o all_o that_o they_o do_v they_o be_v but_o lick_v froth_n or_o s●um_n ephraim_n feed_v on_o wind_n hos._n 12._o 1._o what_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n they_o have_v about_o religion_n be_v without_o any_o sanctify_a effect_n it_o strick_v not_o at_o the_o body_n of_o death_n nor_o do_v it_o promove_v godliness_n it_o be_v ready_o some_o frivolous_a thing_n that_o they_o be_v so_o much_o take_v up_o with_o and_o be_v so_o eager_a in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o which_o prove_v but_o wind_n and_o ash_n to_o who_o it_o may_v be_v in_o some_o respect_n say_v as_o the_o apostle_n do_v to_o the_o galatian_n chap._n 3._o 3_o you_o begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n and_o seek_v to_o be_v make_v perfect_a in_o the_o flesh_n a_o second_o mark_n of_o this_o be_v there_o be_v always_o in_o such_o a_o conscience_n a_o un-distinctness_a as_o to_o the_o ground_n whence_o the_o man_n consolation_n flow_v or_o there_o be_v much_o more_o suppose_a peace_n comfort_n joy_n and_o satisfaction_n than_o he_o can_v give_v any_o solid_a reason_n for_o and_o they_o be_v huge_o disproportion_v to_o the_o foundation_n they_o be_v build_v upon_o ask_v a_o hypocrite_n what_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o so_o firm_a persuasion_n and_o of_o the_o comfort_n and_o joy_n result_v there_o from_o he_o will_v ready_o answer_v i_o think_v it_o be_v so_o or_o i_o hope_v it_o be_v so_o or_o if_o he_o come_v to_o be_v somewhat_o more_o particular_a in_o the_o account_n he_o give_v it_o will_v very_o ready_o be_v to_o this_o or_o some_o such_o purpose_n god_n have_v be_v very_o good_a and_o kind_a to_o i_o in_o such_o and_o such_o providence_n he_o have_v bestow_v on_o i_o such_o and_o such_o gift_n and_o benefit_n which_o yet_o be_v but_o thing_n external_a and_o common_a or_o he_o will_v it_o may_v be_v say_v i_o pray_v to_o god_n in_o such_o and_o such_o a_o strait_a and_o he_o hear_v and_o deliver_v i_o and_o i_o take_v that_o for_o a_o earnest_n that_o he_o will_v hear_v i_o also_o for_o heaven_n and_o eternal_a life_n as_o if_o ahab'_v deliverance_n from_o a_o temporary_a judgement_n on_o his_o humiliation_n have_v be_v to_o he_o indeed_o the_o earnest_n of_o heaven_n or_o it_o may_v be_v he_o will_v further_o say_v god_n have_v keep_v i_o from_o many_o sin_n and_o bestow_v many_o blessing_n on_o i_o which_o he_o may_v do_v unto_o and_o often_o do_v to_o mere_a natural_a man_n and_o therefore_o he_o will_v be_v merciful_a to_o i_o such_o conclusion_n be_v broad_a than_o the_o premise_n and_o the_o superstructure_n than_o the_o foundation_n and_o yet_o alace_o the_o persuasion_n of_o many_o be_v build_v upon_o such_o sandy_a foundation_n and_o be_v therefore_o but_o a_o delusion_n since_o it_o have_v no_o solid_a bottom_n thus_o some_o who_o be_v carry_v away_o with_o a_o error_n will_v say_v they_o can_v defend_v nor_o debate_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o 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they_o to_o i_o and_o be_o i_o now_o become_v your_o enemy_n because_o i_o tell_v you_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v a_o evil_a token_n when_o a_o man_n now_o hate_v another_o who_o he_o love_v before_o and_o on_o no_o other_o ground_n and_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o because_o he_o contradict_v he_o in_o that_o particular_a wherein_o he_o be_v mistake_v a_o four_o character_n be_v which_o be_v of_o some_o affinity_n to_o the_o 2d_o that_o as_o a_o delude_a conscience_n be_v frothy_a in_o its_o comfort_n so_o it_o turn_v a_o man_n forthie_a in_o his_o practice_n he_o be_v much_o more_o concern_v and_o zealous_a in_o small_a and_o minute_n thing_n than_o in_o those_o of_o far_o great_a moment_n as_o the_o apostle_n insinuate_v the_o galatian_n be_v where_o he_o say_v to_o they_o chap._n 3._o v._n 3._o be_v you_o so_o foolish_a that_o have_v begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n you_o be_v now_o make_v perfect_a by_o the_o flesh_n he_o strain_v at_o a_o guat_a and_o swallow_v a_o camel_n and_o be_v not_o so_o much_o take_v up_o with_o the_o whole_a of_o religion_n as_o he_o be_v with_o that_o particular_a thing_n wherein_o he_o be_v delude_v he_o have_v more_o love_n unto_o and_o sympathy_n with_o these_o that_o be_v of_o his_o judgement_n and_o opinion_n in_o that_o particular_a then_o with_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n that_o be_v sound_a and_o right_a the_o galatian_n can_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o paul_n have_v more_o grace_n than_o many_o or_o all_o of_o these_o teacher_n that_o court_v and_o woo_v they_o so_o much_o into_o that_o error_n and_o yet_o they_o cool_v in_o their_o affection_n to_o he_o
to_o come_v at_o it_o if_o you_o shall_v incline_v it_o how_o can_v you_o shift_v this_o conviction_n conscience_n may_v be_v silent_a for_o a_o time_n but_o it_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v loud_a when_o sickness_n and_o the_o cross_n come_v as_o we_o see_v it_o do_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n in_o such_o a_o case_n many_o of_o you_o will_v find_v that_o conscience_n have_v be_v much_o slight_v o_o when_o death_n shall_v come_v and_o stair_n you_o in_o the_o face_n what_o a_o terrible_a thing_n will_v a_o guilty_a conscience_n be_v find_v then_o to_o be_v the_o terror_n of_o mad_a dog_n of_o wild_a boar_n of_o felrce_a lion_n and_o tiger_n will_v not_o be_v so_o terrible_a as_o a_o evil_a conscience_n will_v be_v when_o awaken_v and_o have_v death_n at_o its_o back_n nay_o suppose_v that_o conscience_n shall_v not_o be_v awaken_v while_o you_o be_v alive_a and_o in_o this_o world_n but_o that_o you_o shall_v slip_v and_o sleep_v away_o like_a lamb_n have_v no_o band_n in_o your_o death_n and_o that_o you_o shall_v die_v applaud_v of_o all_o man_n yet_o what_o will_v you_o do_v with_o your_o conscience_n or_o how_o will_v you_o stand_v before_o it_o when_o you_o shall_v be_v sist_v before_o god_n tribunal_n and_o when_o the_o book_n shall_v be_v lay_v open_a be_v there_o not_o many_o now_o in_o hell_n who_o if_o we_o can_v hear_v their_o language_n will_v very_o ready_o bid_v we_o beware_v to_o thwart_v with_o our_o conscience_n and_o to_o make_v it_o our_o enemy_n wo_n to_o they_o that_o take_v a_o evil_a conscience_n with_o they_o to_o their_o grave_n it_o will_v be_v a_o worm_n that_o will_v gnaw_v eternal_o and_o a_o inward_a poison_n and_o venom_n sting_a burn_a and_o inflame_v the_o very_a bowel_n as_o it_o be_v and_o all_o that_o be_v within_o the_o man_n beyond_o what_o be_v here_o conceivable_a we_o will_v therefore_o earnest_o beseech_v and_o obtest_v you_o sober_o to_o think_v on_o it_o for_o there_o be_v many_o of_o you_o who_o this_o challenge_n and_o reproof_n will_v reach_v and_o if_o we_o shall_v say_v otherwise_o to_o you_o who_o never_o have_v it_o for_o your_o aim_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o who_o be_v never_o exercise_v to_o nor_o serious_o take_v up_o with_o religion_n we_o will_v but_o cheat_v and_o beguile_v you_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o you_o can_v thwart_v with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o not_o also_o thwart_v with_o your_o own_o conscience_n or_o can_v you_o thwart_v with_o your_o light_n and_o your_o conscience_n be_v still_o silent_a or_o shall_v the_o have_v and_o keep_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v one_fw-mi exercise_n to_o paul_n and_o do_v you_o think_v to_o come_v so_o easy_o and_o without_o all_o labour_n to_o it_o these_o and_o other_o such_o be_v palpable_a evidence_n of_o a_o ill_a conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a a_o good_a conscience_n that_o yield_v you_o peace_n and_o quietness_n in_o such_o a_o case_n but_o it_o be_v your_o deep_a security_n and_o your_o be_v regardless_o of_o wh●_n conscience_n say_v that_o lull_v and_o rock_v you_o a_o sleep_n for_o the_o second_o how_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v or_o how_o can_v it_o be_v that_o man_n and_o woman_n thus_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n answer_n 1._o it_o need_v not_o at_o all_o to_o seem_v strange_a see_v god_n and_o his_o word_n be_v thwart_v with_o will_v they_o think_v we_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o conscience_n who_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o who_o do_v not_o lay_v weight_n on_o his_o word_n to_o regulate_v their_o conscience_n by_o it_o this_o be_v the_o great_a ground_n of_o people_n thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n and_o of_o their_o regardlesness_n of_o it_o even_o their_o not_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o god_n two_o the_o most_o part_n never_o consider_v their_o obligation_n to_o conscience_n nor_o what_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o thwart_v with_o or_o of_o go_v cross_a to_o their_o conscience_n therefore_o it_o be_v that_o they_o care_v not_o what_o conscience_n say_v be_v there_o any_o considerable_a number_n of_o person_n who_o think_v that_o thwart_a their_o conscience_n be_v such_o a_o terrible_a thing_n at_o it_o be_v indeed_o and_o as_o one_o day_n it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v many_o have_v rather_o have_v a_o very_a little_a money_n in_o their_o hand_n than_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o regardlesness_n arise_v from_o the_o ignorance_n of_o it_o and_o of_o what_o great_a concernment_n it_o be_v 3_o man_n even_o by_o accustom_v and_o habituate_a themselves_o to_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n in_o lesser_a thing_n do_v by_o little_a and_o little_o stupify_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n put_v out_o the_o life_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o ●s_v the_o apostle_n have_v the_o word_n they_o cauterise_n or_o fear_v it_o as_o it_o be_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o some_o true_o tender_a christian_n be_v trouble_v with_o and_o have_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o exercise_n any_o little_a thing_n or_o thing_n that_o have_v in_o they_o but_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o evil_n other_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o pray_v to_o be_v save_v from_o such_o madness_n and_o folly_n because_o they_o be_v never_o accustom_v to_o nor_o acquaint_v with_o any_o challenge_n or_o exercise_v of_o that_o kind_n but_o have_v teach_v themselves_o a_o way_n of_o stepe_v over_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o provock_v god_n to_o give_v they_o up_o to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n to_o do_v thing_n which_o be_v not_o convenient_a they_o harden_v themselves_o by_o resist_v the_o challenge_n of_o the_o word_n and_o rod_n of_o god_n and_o of_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o be_v judicial_o harden_v so_o that_o either_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o they_o or_o they_o do_v not_o at_o all_o value_n what_o it_o say_v thence_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o the_o profane_v have_v most_o ordinary_o few_o challenge_n and_o these_o few_o that_o they_o have_v they_o trample_v on_o they_o and_o stifle_v they_o as_o but_o un-regardable_a and_o trifle_a thing_n whereas_o the_o most_o tender_a conscience_n have_v ready_o manye_v challenge_n though_o i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o sometime_o challenge_n will_v bear_v in_o themselves_o irresistible_o on_o the_o profane_v of_o man_n but_o they_o be_v to_o such_o very_a un-welcomeguests_a and_o they_o endeavour_v quick_o to_o smother_v they_o or_o to_o drive_v they_o out_o again_o 4_o many_o bias_n their_o own_o conscience_n and_o teach_v themselves_o shift_n not_o so_o much_o to_o satisfy_v their_o conscience_n as_o how_o to_o answer_v it_o and_o to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o and_o to_o please_v their_o own_o humour_n if_o they_o can_v give_v a_o reason_n for_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o think_v they_o do_v very_o well_o thus_o deceive_v themselves_o and_o be_v deceive_v for_o a_o deceive_v heart_n have_v lead_v they_o aside_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o some_o thing_n man_n take_v as_o much_o pain_n to_o bias_n their_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v it_o say_v as_o they_o say_v as_o one_o man_n will_v take_v on_o another_o to_o satisfy_v he_o and_o to_o bring_v he_o over_o to_o be_v of_o his_o mind_n in_o any_o matter_n hence_o also_o be_v the_o debate_n and_o struggle_a exercise_n that_o some_o will_v have_v within_o themselves_o before_o they_o can_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o ingenuous_a confession_n of_o that_o they_o be_v guilty_a of_o 5_o people_z seek_v to_o please_v their_o conscience_n when_o they_o can_v bias_n it_o and_o when_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o will_v make_v amends_o as_o it_o may_v be_v they_o will_v pray_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o commit_v such_o or_o such_o a_o sin_n as_o some_o profane_a man_n will_v do_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o fight_v a_o combat_n or_o duel_n this_o be_v to_o bribe_v the_o conscience_n thus_o many_o papist_n when_o they_o have_v do_v a_o evil_a turn_n will_v give_v so_o much_o to_o the_o poor_a or_o dot_v so_o much_o to_o some_o pious_a work_n or_o use_v as_o they_o judge_v to_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o recompense_n what_o else_o be_v this_o but_o to_o bribe_v conscience_n in_o one_o thing_n to_o hold_v its_o tongue_n in_o another_o thing_n so_o some_o though_o they_o tipple_v all_o the_o day_n think_v they_o do_v well_o if_o they_o have_v be_v a_o while_n in_o the_o church_n and_o will_v seek_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o conscience_n with_o that_o at_o night_n for_o they_o can_v not_o at_o all_o keep_v quarter_n to_o speak_v so_o with_o their_o conscience_n if_o they_o have_v not_o some_o form_n of_o religion_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v to_o speak_v so_o be_v brave_a
there_o shall_v be_v a_o commune_n with_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n which_o we_o conceive_v be_v often_o neglect_v and_o man_n often_o start_v and_o strick_v in_o with_o thing_n without_o deliberation_n think_v if_o they_o have_v light_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n that_o it_o be_v enough_o for_o make_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v duty_n it_o be_v true_a one_fw-mi argument_n from_o light_n may_v induce_v to_o the_o thing_n yet_o we_o be_v neglective_a when_o we_o bring_v it_o not_o to_o the_o conscience_n 3_o man_n shall_v bring_v thing_n impartial_o to_o the_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o we_o be_v not_o pre-occupled_n or_o prejudge_v lest_o we_o get_v one_fw-mi answer_n according_a to_o our_o idol_n as_o well_o as_o we_o shall_v beware_v of_o byass_v and_o bribe_v conscience_n if_o the_o eye_n be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n will_v be_v full_a of_o light_n but_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o single_a darkness_n may_v be_v have_v from_o the_o conscience_n in_o stead_n of_o light_n not_o that_o in_o clear_a thing_n that_o be_v duty_n at_o all_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v stick_v and_o mo●e_n question_n which_o be_v balaam_n fault_n but_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a or_o though_o lawful_a yet_o not_o call_v for_o at_o all_o time_n nor_o from_o we_o in_o such_o a_o station_n or_o relation_n when_o the_o question_n run_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a to_o we_o or_o not_o or_o if_o we_o be_v call_v to_o it_o at_o this_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v single_a and_o take_v one_fw-mi answer_v from_o conscience_n as_o god_n clear_v it_o 4_o we_o shall_v give_v attention_n le●d_a to_o our_o ear_n and_o take_v good_a heed_n what_o conscience_n incline_v to_o and_o say_v whither_o it_o incline_v this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n as_o when_o we_o ask_v a_o question_n at_o 〈◊〉_d we_o use_v to_o be_v silent_a till_o they_o answer_v so_o shall_v it_o be_v here_o and_o if_o conscience_n seem_v not_o to_o speak_v we_o shall_v wa●t_v on_o and_o not_o be_v hasty_a especial_o we_o shall_v look_v well_o that_o we_o distinguish_v betwixt_o inclination_n the_o affection_n of_o fear_n passion_n and_o the_o like_a and_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n lest_o we_o take_v the_o one_o for_o the_o other_o we_o shall_v both_o take_v heed_n that_o it_o be_v conscience_n that_o answer_v and_o that_o we_o take_v up_o the_o meaning_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v answer_n aright_o in_o order_n to_o which_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o quiet_v and_o hush_v of_o all_o thing_n within_o the_o man_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o disturb_v in_o take_v up_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n or_o that_o may_v prejudge_v conscience_n in_o speak_v and_o give_v its_o answer_n 5_o when_o conscience_n have_v speak_v we_o shall_v put_v its_o answer_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n indeed_o we_o shall_v take_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o same_o even_o as_o we_o shall_v take_v our_o light_n to_o conscience_n that_o conscience_n may_v testify_v of_o it_o so_o when_o we_o have_v get_v one_fw-mi answer_n from_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v it_o back_o to_o light_n and_o see_v how_o it_o agree_v with_o the_o word_n for_o there_o be_v a_o great_a correspondence_n betwixt_o these_o two_o conscience_n and_o light_n conscience_n serve_v to_o balance_v light_n and_o light_a to_o confirm_v conscience_n which_o be_v god_n deputy_n set_v up_o in_o man_n to_o speak_v his_o mind_n ere_o we_o can_v follow_v aught_o as_o the_o language_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v ask_v for_o his_o warrant_n and_o if_o it_o produce_v no_o word_n for_o the_o warrant_n of_o what_o it_o say_v we_o shall_v not_o take_v it_o for_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n or_o at_o least_o it_o shall_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o mistake_a answer_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o some_o when_o they_o get_v a_o little_a lightning_n after_o prayer_n and_o do_v not_o put_v it_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o yet_o rest_v on_o it_o as_o one_fw-mi answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v yea_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o many_o of_o god_n people_n who_o have_v some_o access_n and_o liberty_n in_o their_o address_n to_o he_o be_v mistake_v for_o it_o be_v not_o access_n to_o he_o nor_o liberty_n simple_o that_o warrand_v conscience_n to_o speak_v but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o for_o the_o four_o question_v how_o this_o language_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v discern_v and_o distinguish_v or_o difference_v from_o man_n light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n of_o fear_n or_o desire_n and_o like_v to_o be_v at_o a_o thing_n which_o will_v stir_v and_o make_v restless_a as_o well_o as_o as_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n we_o answer_v 1._o the_o answer_n that_o conscience_n give_v be_v always_o from_o the_o word_n if_o it_o be_v right_a and_o upon_o that_o account_n that_o the_o word_n warrand_v it_o it_o not_o only_o say_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n but_o press_v to_o it_o because_o agreeable_a thereto_o as_o for_o instance_n to_o allude_v to_o that_o word_n if_o not_o more_o he_o that_o give_v to_o a_o disciple_n a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n shall_v not_o loss_n his_o reward_n we_o may_v give_v somewhat_o to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v a_o disciple_n out_o of_o pity_n or_o on_o some_o other_o natural_a or_o moral_a consideration_n and_o relation_n and_o light_n will_v direct_v to_o that_o and_o the_o natural_a conscience_n may_v pousse_n to_o it_o but_o to_o make_v it_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o require_v a_o re-duplication_a that_o we_o give_v to_o he_o as_o or_o because_o he_o be_v a_o disciple_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n so_o one_o may_v pray_v and_o come_v to_o church_n and_o have_v an●_n impulse_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o not_o from_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o another_o do_v because_o the_o one_o come_v as_o in_o obedience_n to_o a_o command_v duty_n the_o other_o not_o but_o on_o some_o other_o account_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o that_o account_n but_o light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o another_o account_n as_o from_o some_o selfish_a motive_n or_o consideration_n suppose_v it_o to_o be_v a_o duty_n a_o second_o way_n to_o discern_v its_o answer_n be_v this_o light_z inclination_n and_o affection_n put_v to_o the_o thing_n in_o the_o general_a only_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n respect_v all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o thing_n conscience_n do_v not_o only_o say_v go_v and_o pray_v but_o pray_v in_o this_o manner_n to_o wit_n with_o faith_n love_n fear_v reverence_n and_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n consider_v the_o duty_n as_o circumstantiate_v in_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v answer_n be_v no_o broad_a nor_o narrow_a than_o the_o word_n be_v whereas_o when_o a_o man_n be_v put_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n from_o credit_n fear_v or_o desire_n his_o practice_n be_v extend_v no_o further_a than_o to_o such_o an●_n end_n credit_n fear_v of_o loss_n or_o the_o like_a if_o he_o have_v any_o regard_n to_o circumstance_n levell_v and_o module_v he_o in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o his_o act_n so_o as_o he_o may_v attain_v that_o which_o drive_v he_o on_o to_o such_o a_o duty_n but_o when_o conscience_n put_v to_o duty_n that_o god_n may_v be_v obey_v and_o peace_n in_o he_o enjoy_v it_o regulate_v the_o man_n in_o all_o circumstance_n of_o his_o duty_n in_o order_n to_o that_o end_n and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o some_o be_v so_o soon_o and_o so_o well_o satisfy_v with_o duty_n other_o be_v never_o thorough_o satisfy_v because_o the_o one_o go_v about_o duty_n for_o the_o fashion_n to_o guard_v against_o and_o hold_v off_o challenge_v or_o for_o some_o other_o sinister_a end_n and_o so_o be_v still_o drive_v on_o from_o such_o a_o principle_n and_o for_o such_o end_n but_o the_o other_o go_v about_o duty_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n a●d_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v peace_n in_o he_o and_o while_o any_o thing_n be_v want_v that_o may_v m●rr_v that_o he_o be_v disquiet_v 3_o we_o may_v discern_v it_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o answer_n and_o the_o effect_n that_o it_o have_v on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d to_o who_o the_o answer_n be_v give_v conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n and_o the_o most_o divine_a thing_n in_o man_n even_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o search_v into_o the_o 〈◊〉_d and_o inward_a part_n of_o the_o belly_n and_o when_o act_v its_o part_n aright_o the_o most_o excellent_a representer_n of_o god_n if_o it_o
there_o be_v nothing_o ready_o that_o more_o comfort_v he_o in_o a_o strait_n it_o be_v asleep_o singular_o good_a backfriend_n therefore_o when_o paul_n have_v few_o other_o friend_n he_o make_v use_v of_o this_o and_o find_v much_o peace_n and_o comfort_n from_o it_o and_o hence_o he_o say_v 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n to_o clear_v this_o in_o a_o word_n further_o it_o be_v in_o these_o three_o case_n exceed_v useful_a 1._o in_o the_o case_n of_o reproach_n i_o have_v say_v paul_n act_v 23._o 1._o live_v in_o all_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n until_o this_o day_n and_o 2_o tim_n 1._o 3._o i_o thank_v god_n who_o i_o serve_v with_o pure_a conscience_n from_o my_o forefather_n 2_o in_o the_o case_n of_o some_o notable_a cross_n when_o christian_n be_v bring_v very_o low_a in_o a_o great_a measure_n outward_o afflict_v or_o under_o great_a persecution_n this_o be_v say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o pet._n 2._o 19_o 20._o thank_v worthy_a if_o a_o man_n for_o conscience_n towards_o god_n endure_v grief_n suffer_v wrongful_o for_o what_o glory_n be_v it_o if_o when_o you_o be_v buffet_v for_o your_o fault_n you_o shall_v take_v it_o patient_o but_o if_o when_o you_o do_v well_o and_o suffer_v for_o it_o and_o take_v it_o patient_o this_o be_v acceptable_a with_o god_n 3_o it_o be_v useful_a and_o comfortable_a as_o to_o our_o own_o peace_n in_o the_o case_n of_o challenge_n for_o guilt_n it_o silence_v and_o shoulder_n out_o all_o challenge_n and_o give_v holy_a boldness_n if_o our_o heart_n or_o conscience_n condemn_v we_o not_o say_v john_n 1_o ep._n chap_n 3._o v._n 21._o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n the_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v we_o to_o be_v much_o in_o love_n with_o such_o a_o way_n as_o we_o may_v have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o it_o and_o to_o be_v much_o in_o love_n with_o such_o a_o conscience_n as_o may_v give_v we_o such_o a_o comfortable_a testimony_n in_o all_o our_o strait_n and_o difficulty_n more_o particular_o we_o shall_v speak_v to_o that_o which_o we_o main_o aim_v at_o in_o these_o four_o or_o five_o observation_n consider_v then_o first_o what_o paul_n be_v about_o here_o he_o be_v assert_v a_o truth_n viz._n that_o he_o be_v in_o great_a beavines_n for_o his_o brethren_n and_o kinsman_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n and_o he_o atte_v his_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v so_o and_o that_o he_o be_v honest_a and_o sincere_a in_o assert_v it_o whence_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v no_o action_n of_o a_o man_n life_n but_o conscience_n have_v a_o concern_v in_o it_o and_o have_v something_o to_o say_v to_o he_o concern_v it_o if_o it_o be_v but_o the_o speak_n of_o a_o word_n let_v be_v the_o do_v of_o any_o bussiness_n conscience_n have_v always_o something_o to_o say_v for_o he_o or_o against_o he_o so_o that_o we_o may_v confident_o say_v there_o be_v no_o action_n of_o so_o little_a moment_n in_o thought_n word_n or_o deed_n as_o whither_o a_o man_n be_v call_v to_o do_v or_o forbear_v to_o speak_v or_o to_o be_v silent_a but_o in_o all_o these_o conscience_n have_v a_o sense_n and_o consideration_n of_o it_o and_o a_o testimony_n to_o give_v for_o or_o against_o the_o man_n about_o it_o i_o be_o not_o now_o speak_v of_o thing_n sinful_a or_o unlawful_a on_o the_o matter_n but_o of_o such_o thing_n as_o on_o the_o matter_n be_v lawful_a as_o when_o a_o man_n speak_v truth_n whither_o he_o speak_v it_o true_o and_o with_o a_o honest_a intention_n or_o not_o therefore_o when_o paul_n be_v speak_v a_o truth_n here_o he_o look_v to_o his_o conscience_n and_o hearken_v what_o it_o say_v put_v these_o four_o together_o and_o you_o will_v find_v it_o clear_a that_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a and_o good_a frame_n will_v always_o have_v something_o to_o say_v for_o or_o against_o a_o man_n in_o every_o thing_n that_o he_o go_v about_o i_o say_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n because_o that_o be_v the_o conscience_n we_o be_v speak_v of_o and_o the_o conscience_n that_o most_o complete_o discharge_v its_o duty_n 1_o if_o we_o consider_v this_o that_o there_o be_v no_o humane_a action_n but_o god_n have_v give_v man_n a_o rule_n direct_v how_o it_o shall_v be_v order_v how_o he_o shall_v eat_v and_o how_o he_o shall_v drink_v how_o he_o shall_v plough_v pray_v hear_v read_v confer_v how_o he_o shall_v walk_v in_o company_n and_o out_o of_o company_n how_o he_o shall_v go_v about_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o call_v and_o it_o prescribe_v the_o manner_n of_o do_v these_o thing_n as_o well_o as_o the_o matter_n therefore_o 1_o tim._n 3._o 16_o 1●_n it_o be_v say_v all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n and_o for_o correction_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v unto_o every_o good_a work_n it_o furnish_v he_o with_o light_n and_o direction_n not_o only_a in_o the_o matter_n as_o ●_o say_v but_o in_o the_o manner_n of_o do_v 2._o 〈◊〉_d that_o a_o man_n in_o all_o his_o action_n be_v either_o walk_v according_a and_o agreeable_o to_o t●at_a rule_n or_o not_o his_o action_n be_v ei●her_o conform_v or_o disconform_v to_o the_o rule_n there_o be_v not_o a_o mid_n he_o either_o do_v according_a to_o it_o or_o he_o do_v not_o according_a to_o it_o if_o he_o do_v the_o action_n as_o the_o word_n prescribe_v conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v for_o he_o if_o no●_n it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v against_o he_o 3._o 〈◊〉_d that_o in_o all_o action_n as_o they_o be_v ●one_n or_o perform_v and_o as_o 〈◊〉_d god_n be_v either_o please_v or_o displease_v if_o the_o action_n be_v do_v according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o be_v please_v if_o it_o be_v not_o do_v according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o be_v displease_v 4._o con●ider_v that_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n take_v up_o a_o man_n action_n and_o consider_v he_o in_o they_o not_o according_a to_o the_o matter_n only_o bu●_n also_o as_o they_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o rule_n for_o the_o manner_n principle_n motive_n and_o end_n and_o testifi_v of_o they_o according_o so_o that_o if_o god_n have_v a_o interest_n in_o all_o a_o man_n action_n a_o sanctify_a conscience_n have_v also_o a_o interest_n in_o they_o i_o say_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n because_o it_o most_o single_o plea●eth_v god_n interest_n this_o be_v true_a also_o of_o a_o natural_a conscience_n according_a to_o its_o light_n for_o even_o such_o a_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 2._o 5._o bear_v witness_v and_o the_o gentile_n show_v the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n write_v in_o their_o heat●s_n their_o conscience_n also_o bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n in_o the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o and_o there_o be_v no_o natural_a man_n if_o he_o take_v heed_n to_o his_o conscience_n in_o the_o do_n of_o any_o action_n but_o will_v find_v conscience_n according_a to_o its_o light_n speak_v either_o for_o he_o or_o against_o he_o either_o accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v he_o but_o this_o be_v much_o more_o to_o be_v find_v be_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n because_o it_o have_v much_o more_o light_n and_o much_o more_o tenderness_n to_o act_v according_a ●o_o that_o light_n and_o therefore_o it_o will_v find_v itself_o much_o more_o concern_v in_o the_o action_n of_o a_o believer_n the_o first_o use_n be_v for_o information_n and_o instruction_n in_o a_o ma●n_n practical_a point_n of_o religion_n relate_v to_o man_n conversation_n most_o man_n 〈◊〉_d think_v that_o conscience_n be_v not_o concern_v except_o in_o some_o great_a thing_n some_o palpable_o sinful_a thing_n or_o some_o thing_n immediate_o relate_v to_o religion_n and_o that_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n they_o may_v live_v as_o they_o like_v without_o take_v notice_n of_o conscience_n but_o ●_o s●y_o and_o have_v clear_v it_o that_o conscience_n have_v ●n_v 〈◊〉_d and_o concern_v in_o every_o action_n not_o only_o as_o to_o put_v man_n to_o undertake_v it_o whereof_o we_o speak_v before_o but_o also_o as_o to_o their_o manner_n of_o perform_v the_o same_o it_o not_o only_o put_v a_o man_n to_o think_v speak_v or_o do_v but_o it_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o think_n speak_a and_o do_v conscience_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v viz._n that_o we_o be_v either_o right_a or_o wrong_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o all_o a_o christian_a man_n action_n may_v be_v take_v up_o in_o a_o twofold_a respect_n or_o under_o a_o twofold_a consideration_n 1._o
eye_n behind_o intimate_v that_o tender_a christian_n shall_v have_v and_o in_o some_o measure_n indeed_o have_v a_o eye_n as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v of_o very_o watchful_a and_o accurat_o observe_v person_n in_o their_o neck_n look_v to_o what_o stick_v and_o cleave_v to_o their_o heel_n as_o it_o be_v when_o they_o have_v pass_v any_o action_n or_o duty_n as_o the_o word_n be_v psal._n 49._o 5._o where_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v of_o the_o iniquity_n of_o his_o heel_n compass_v he_o about_o as_o know_v well_o that_o in_o every_o step_n of_o his_o way_n he_o leave_v some_o ●oul_a vestige_n or_o print_v behind_o he_o and_o therefore_o look_v back_o on_o it_o this_o than_o we_o propose_v as_o a_o piece_n and_o a_o special_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n viz._n that_o christian_n not_o only_o deliberat_fw-la before_o they_o do_v and_o look_v to_o conscience_n while_o they_o be_v adoing_o but_o that_o also_o they_o reflect_v and_o look_v back_o upon_o the_o action_n when_o it_o be_v do_v and_o pass_v to_o clear_v this_o a_o little_a further_o there_o be_v three_o main_a thing_n that_o a_o believer_n be_v call_v to_o in_o reference_n to_o what_o be_v past_a 1._o examination_n of_o himself_o and_o his_o way_n 2._o lay_v of_o himself_o and_o his_o way_n to_z and_o before_o his_o conscience_n inform_v by_o the_o word_n 3._o judge_v of_o himself_o according_a as_o he_o find_v eth_z his_o way_n to_o be_v when_o he_o have_v lay_v it_o before_o his_o conscience_n we_o need_v not_o curious_o and_o nice_o difference_n these_o for_o they_o go_v always_o together_o when_o a_o man_n be_v right_a his_o examination_n of_o himself_o and_o of_o his_o way_n the_o examination_n of_o his_o way_n by_o his_o conscience_n and_o his_o self-judging_a yet_o they_o may_v be_v some_o way_n difference_v self-examination_n be_v more_o large_a and_o extensive_a take_v in_o the_o whole_a that_o a_o man_n be_v concern_v in_o his_o recklessness_n and_o his_o need_n as_o well_o as_o his_o 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have_v to_o ●ay_n for_o this_o 〈◊〉_d the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o together_o and_o if_o they_o be_v no●_n thus_o knit_v they_o will_v fall_v asunder_o and_o come_v to_o nothing_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o trial_n take_v it_o then_o for_o a_o evidence_n and_o mark_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a thus_o to_o reflect_v on_o a_o person_n walk_v and_o action_n when_o he_o have_v do_v they_o the_o tender_a christian_a will_v thus_o reflect_v on_o his_o way_n and_o action_n do_v though_o it_o be_v for_o many_o year_n past_a and_o will_v judge_v impartial_o according_a to_o what_o conscience_n have_v to_o say_v of_o they_o they_o here_o behave_v like_a unto_o faithful_a ambassador_n or_o messenger_n who_o be_v commissionat_a in_o some_o business_n and_o have_v go_v about_o it_o will_v sist_z themselves_z before_o these_o that_o give_v they_o the_o commission_n to_o hear_v their_o judgement_n and_o sentence_n of_o their_o management_n of_o the_o business_n commit_v to_o they_o 〈◊〉_d they_o be_v unfaithful_a that_o receive_v such_o a_o commission_n and_o never_o give_v a_o account_n of_o their_o discharge_n of_o it_o nor_o wait_v for_o the_o sentence_n of_o its_o giver_n even_o so_o tender_a christian_n will_v not_o only_o consult_v with_o and_o take_v direction_n from_o conscience_n what_o and_o how_o to_o do_v but_o will_v also_o turn_v back_o and_o see_v i●_n conscience_n do_v approve_v of_o what_o they_o have_v do_v and_o of_o their_o manner_n of_o do_v now_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o this_o we_o do_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v always_o the_o mark_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a that_o the_o man_n have_v conscience_n speak_v for_o he_o for_o conscience_n may_v be_v mislead_v and_o its_o testimony_n in_o that_o case_n signify_v little_a but_o this_o we_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a to_o be_v always_o single_o try_v whether_o it_o be_v for_o he_o or_o against_o he_o and_o it_o will_v be_v find_v in_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o tender_a christian_n whereas_o these_o that_o walk_v at_o random_n without_o all_o circumspection_n look_v not_o thus_o to_o conscience_n yea_o even_o believer_n themselves_o when_o in_o a_o untender_a frame_n desire_v not_o much_o to_o come_v in_o conscience_n its_o sight_n to_o speak_v ●o_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o as_o it_o be_v joh._n 3._o v._n 20_o 21._o every_o one_o that_o do_v evil_a hate_v the_o light_n lest_o his_o deed_n shall_v be_v reprove_v but_o he_o that_o do_v truth_n come_v to_o the_o light_n to_o the_o light_n of_o the_o word_n and_o of_o his_o conscience_n inform_v by_o the_o word_n that_o his_o deed_n may_v be_v manifest_a that_o they_o be_v wrought_v in_o god_n it_o be_v no_o ●mal_a part_n i_o say_v of_o this_o light_n even_a conscience_n it_o be_v testimony_n and_o it_o say_v that_o the_o sincer_n man_n desire_v to_o know_v if_o he_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n and_o that_o he_o like_v not_o to_o entertain_v the_o thought_n of_o any_o practice_n or_o deed_n of_o he_o to_o be_v right_a when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o in_o truth_n and_o that_o withal_o he_o allow_v not_o himself_o to_o judge_v of_o his_o deed_n mere_o by_o himself_o but_o to_o submit_v they_o to_o the_o sentence_n of_o his_o conscience_n according_a to_o the_o word_n to_o clear_v this_o a_o little_a we_o shall_v point_v at_o some_o character_n of_o a_o person_n that_o be_v suitable_o serious_a and_o tender_a in_o reflect_v on_o his_o conscience_n and_o that_o 1._o in_o respect_n of_o its_o extent_n and_o then_o 2_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o first_o then_o as_o to_o the_o extent_n 1._o he_o reflect_v on_o and_o try_v all_o his_o action_n even_o the_o whole_a tract_n and_o current_n of_o his_o life_n as_o paul_n do_v here_o his_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n
mind_v to_o balk_v ●one_n but_o to_o go_v through_o all_o before_o you_o give_v over_o the_o work_n it_o will_v be_v better_a to_o betake_v yourselves_o to_o the_o search_n and_o examination_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a duty_n or_o of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o day_n work_v and_o duty_n and_o thus_o you_o will_v win_v the_o better_a in_o on_o it_o and_o through_o it_o and_o the_o heap_n will_v grow_v the_o less_o but_o meddle_v not_o with_o another_o till_o you_o have_v with_o some_o suitableness_n dispatch_v and_o put_v by_o this_o 3_o if_o you_o can_v win_v for_o the_o time_n so_o to_o fix_v on_o particular_n take_v your_o confuse_a condition_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o think_v on_o a_o while_n and_o look_v not_o at_o this_o as_o nothing_o that_o you_o have_v find_v your_o condition_n to_o be_v confuse_v david_n condition_n be_v somewhat_o thus_o when_o he_o say_v psal._n 44._o v_o 15_o my_o confusion_n be_v continual_o before_o i_o the_o take_n and_o lay_v of_o your_o case_n confuse_v as_o it_o be_v before_o god_n and_o your_o conscience_n may_v help_v to_o humble_a and_o kind_o to_o affect_v your_o heart_n 4_o the_o more_o confuse_a your_o case_n be_v seek_v to_o take_v it_o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o god_n and_o to_o draw_v the_o near_a to_o he_o let_v it_o be_v make_v a_o motive_n to_o set_v you_o on_o to_o deal_v the_o more_o serious_o with_o he_o to_o dispel_v your_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n as_o je●_n do_v while_o he_o say_v chap._n 10._o v._n 15._o i_o be_o full_a of_o confusion_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o my_o affliction_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v lord_n i_o can_v rid_v no●_n order_n my_o case_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o it_o and_o give_v i_o clearness_n for_o though_o a_o person_n have_v a_o confuse_a condition_n yet_o he_o may_v be_v somewhat_o distinct_a in_o lay_v it_o out_o before_o god_n as_o it_o be_v and_o may_v be_v clear_a in_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o when_o it_o say_v that_o it_o be_v confuse_v 5_o whether_o our_o condition_n be_v confuse_v or_o no●_n we_o will_v be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o every_o particular_a that_o we_o find_v in_o it_o and_o this_o may_v be_v one_o reason_n of_o our_o confusion_n that_o we_o have_v more_o clearness_n than_o we_o improve_v well_o we_o see_v many_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n but_o the_o ●ight_n affect_v we_o not_o neither_o do_v we_o suitable_o endeavour_v to_o repent_v of_o the_o evil_n which_o we_o see_v nor_o to_o amend_v they_o nor_o do_v 〈◊〉_d flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n to_o get_v they_o pardon_v and_o cure_v but_o when_o the_o little_a clearness_n that_o we_o have_v be_v well_o improven_v it_o be_v the_o way_n to_o get_v more_o but_o what_o need_n be_v there_o of_o more_o light_n and_o of_o more_o clearness_n when_o that_o which_o we_o have_v be_v not_o due_o make_v use_n of_o a_o 3d._a objection_n be_v some_o may_v think_v and_o say_v we_o be_v essay_v self-examination_n and_o yet_o we_o find_v much_o difficulty_n to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o conscience_n its_o language_n whether_o it_o be_v awell_v ground_v challenge_n or_o a_o approve_v testimony_n this_o objection_n be_v much_o like_a unto_o that_o question_n which_o we_o speak_v to_o alittle_o in_o our_o second_o sermon_n on_o act_n 24._o v_o 16._o viz._n whether_o conscience_n its_o impulse_n may_v not_o sometime_o be_v wrong_a to_o which_o we_o answer_v affirmative_o and_o do_v yet_o grant_v that_o it_o may_v mistake_v and_o be_v mistake_v by_o we_o and_o what_o we_o say_v there_o for_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v useful_a here_o towards_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o objection_n yet_o we_o shall_v now_o speak_v a_o word_n further_o to_o it_o for_o answer_v then_o we_o shall_v easy_o yield_v that_o it_o be_v indeed_o sometime_o difficult_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n to_o say_v so_o of_o conscience_n and_o to_o understand_v its_o language_n in_o reflect_v as_o well_o as_o in_o deliberate_v either_o 1._o through_o the_o dimness_n of_o people_n light_n that_o they_o scarce_o know_v the_o rule_n or_o 2_o through_o their_o be_v partial_a and_o negligent_a in_o compare_v their_o way_n and_o action_n with_o the_o rule_n but_o either_o hide_v it_o whole_o or_o at_o le●st_a some_o circumstance_n of_o it_o without_o bring_v it_o forth_o and_o lay_v it_o to_o the_o rule_n or_o 3_o it_o may_v be_v through_o some_o bias_n in_o their_o affection_n that_o make_v they_o unsingle_a so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o or_o 4_o it_o may_v be_v from_o some_o unwarrantable_a and_o groundless_a prejudice_n at_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o way_n so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v a_o testimony_n from_o conscience_n even_o when_o it_o give_v they_o a_o good_a one_o and_o therefore_o in_o your_o self-examination_n you_o will_v carry_v some_o advertisement_n along_o with_o you_o which_o will_v be_v helpful_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n 1._o you_o will_v try_v whether_o conscience_n be_v impartial_a and_o if_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v to_o both_o hand_n to_o say_v so_o accuse_v ●n_o some_o thing_n and_o excuse_v in_o other_o in_o some_o thing_n speak_v peace_n and_o in_o other_o challenge_v for_o sin_n for_o if_o when_o you_o reflect_v conscience_n speak_v all_o or_o only_a peace_n it_o be_v certain_o wrong_a because_o in_o the_o best_a there_o be_v less_o or_o more_o guilt_n contract_v in_o what_o ever_o you_o go_v about_o but_o if_o beside_o what_o be_v right_a it_o point_v also_o at_o something_o that_o be_v wrong_n it_o be_v conscience_n right_a language_n on_o the_o contrary_a when_o you_o reflect_v if_o conscience_n speak_v all_o to_o be_v wrong_n though_o there_o be_v some_o sincerity_n in_o your_o aim_n it_o be_v mistake_v for_o when_o it_o speak_v a_o right_a it_o speak_v always_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o what_o he_o say_v be_v wrong_n or_o right_n it_o say_v so_o of_o it_o also_o so_o in_o the_o epistle_n to_o ephesus_n rev._n 2._o as_o the_o lord_n charge_v they_o that_o they_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n so_o do_v conscience_n yet_o as_o he_o tell_v they_o that_o there_o be_v something_o right_n in_o as_o far_o as_o they_o have_v labour_v for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o hate_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o he_o hate_v etc._n etc._n so_o do_v conscience_n also_o testify_v the_o same_o and_o so_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o epistle_n to_o these_o seven_o church_n as_o god_n be_v impartial_a in_o his_o testimony_n so_o be_v conscience_n when_o right_o 2_o you_o will_v advert_v to_o the_o ground_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v speak_v or_o to_o that_o on_o account_n of_o which_o it_o testify_v for_o you_o or_o against_o you_o for_o as_o in_o our_o forbear_n of_o one_o action_n and_o in_o our_o choose_n of_o another_o we_o be_v to_o forbear_v or_o to_o choose_v and_o proceed_v according_a as_o conscience_n hold_v ou●_n clear_a light_n and_o reason_n for_o it_o so_o upon_o the_o back_n of_o any_o action_n or_o duty_n perform_v when_o we_o go_v to_o reflect_v we_o will_v try_v the_o ground_n whether_o of_o conscience_n its_o challenge_n or_o of_o its_o good_a testimony_n if_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v try_v well_o whether_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o sin_n for_o which_o it_o do_v so_o if_o it_o approve_v and_o speak_v peace_n try_v on_o what_o ground_n it_o do_v so_o conscience_n will_v some_o way_n testify_v of_o the_o action_n but_o you_o will_v try_v if_o it_o be_v sinful_a or_o not_o according_a to_o the_o word_n ol_fw-mi god_n which_o suppose_v knowledge_n in_o the_o thing_n and_o of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n concern_v it_o wherein_o any_o especial_o more_o considerable_a defect_n even_o in_o conscientious_a and_o ●ender_a christian_n be_v wait_v with_o its_o own_o prejudice_n hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v as_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o a_o accou●t_n rom._n 14._o that_o many_o of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n through_o the_o weakness_n of_o their_o knowledge_n be_v make_v to_o judge_v such_o and_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n as_o the_o eat_n of_o such_o and_o such_o meat_n their_o conscience_n judge_v according_a to_o their_o knowledge_n when_o yet_o indeed_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o wrong_v though_o as_o the_o apostle_n there_o say_v to_o he_o that_o esteem_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v unclean_a to_o he_o it_o be_v unclean_a therefore_o we_o will_v be_v the_o more_o holy_o jealous_a over_o ourselves_o lest_o we_o find_v our_o peace_n on_o a_o delude_a testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n and_o for_o prevent_v of_o that_o we_o will_v put_v ●t_a to_o give_v its_o reason_n for_o and_o evidence_n of_o what_o
clear_a command_n yea_o as_o its_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o notable_a mean_n for_o the_o suitable_a performance_n of_o all_o other_o duty_n so_o that_o wherever_o prayer_n repentance_n hear_v read_v etc._n etc._n be_v command_v this_o be_v also_o on_o the_o matter_n command_v and_o as_o many_o duty_n as_o be_v command_v of_o as_o many_o breach_n of_o these_o command_n be_v we_o guilty_a when_o this_o duty_n be_v neglect_v consider_v that_o when_o ever_o we_o be_v command_v to_o do_v any_o duty_n we_o be_v command_v also_o to_o use_v all_o the_o mean_n that_o may_v further_o we_o towards_o the_o suitable_a performance_n thereof_o and_o this_o be_v a_o special_a mean_a requisite_a to_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o every_o duty_n it_o be_v therefore_o command_v in_o every_o other_o command_v duty_n we_o may_v in●ance_v it_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n this_o help_v a_o man_n to_o begin_v it_o aright_o it_o go_v along_o with_o he_o in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o day_n and_o when_o it_o be_v over_o and_o by_o it_o help_v he_o to_o discover_v his_o ●ailings_n and_o short_a come_n and_o his_o act_n of_o grace_n where_o it_o be_v and_o spiritual_a attainment_n in_o these_o duty_n and_o to_o be_v according_o affect_v and_o the_o neglect_n of_o it_o be_v à_fw-fr breach_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n both_o before_o and_o after_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o public_a or_o private_a or_o secret_a duty_n of_o worship_n call_v for_o on_o that_o day_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o duty_n 4_o we_o may_v look_v upon_o it_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o be_v a_o nursery_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o evil_n it_o harbour_v end_n entertain_v lust_n it_o harden_v the_o heart_n strengthen_v security_n it_o cherish_v hypocrisy_n it_o bring_v on_o formality_n and_o impenitency_n it_o as_o it_o be_v lock_v up_o in_o presumption_n and_o carnal_a confidence_n it_o wear_v man_n out_o from_o under_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o from_o under_o all_o due_a respect_n 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and_o evil_a life_n de●ire_v not_o to_o come_v before_o their_o conscience_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o dare_v not_o go_v to_o their_o conscience_n because_o it_o never_o speak_v good_a but_o evil_a to_o they_o as_o indeed_o it_o have_v no_o other_o reason_n and_o on_o that_o account_n they_o even_o hate_v it_o as_o achab_n do_v the_o prophet_n micajah_n of_o who_o he_o say_v i_o hate_v he_o because_o he_o never_o prophecy_v good_a but_o evil_n to_o i_o and_o that_o they_o will_v rather_o consult_v fl●sh_a and_o blood_n their_o own_o inclination_n and_o affection_n than_o their_o conscience_n in_o a_o particular_a because_o they_o dread_v it_o will_v speak_v evil_a to_o they_o especial_o when_o they_o know_v that_o there_o be_v something_o palpable_o wrong_v in_o their_o way_n for_o in_o that_o case_n they_o conclude_v it_o will_v gloum_n on_o they_o and_o gall_v they_o and_o even_o prick_v they_o in_o the_o quick_a a_o second_o reason_n be_v because_o folk_n make_v not_o this_o work_n of_o self-examination_n habitual_a to_o themselves_o but_o delay_n and_o put_v off_o time_n till_o their_o case_n become_v so_o ravel_v and_o consuse_v that_o they_o be_v afraid_a to_o meddle_v with_o it_o and_o though_o they_o shall_v they_o grow_v heartless_a and_o out_o of_o hope_n to_o get_v it_o right_v just_o like_a man_n that_o can_v endure_v to_o adjust_a their_o account_n which_o they_o have_v suffer_v negligent_o to_o run_v long_o on_o and_o into_o great_a confusion_n a_o 3d._a cause_n may_v be_v this_o which_o respect_v believer_n in_o christ_n that_o even_o where_o person_n make_v conscience_n of_o their_o way_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o foolish_a precipitancy_n and_o haste_n make_v they_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o examination_n of_o themselves_o take_v up_o much_o of_o their_o time_n and_o that_o it_o be_v better_a to_o spend_v it_o in_o prayer_n or_o in_o read_v than_o that_o way_n not_o consider_v that_o its_o much_o better_a to_o have_v some_o 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or_o thing_n that_o be_v well_o do_v be_v soon_o do_v a_o four_o cause_o may_v be_v which_o also_o respect_v even_a believer_n that_o we_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v if_o we_o be_v always_o about_o some_o duty_n it_o matter_n not_o so_o much_o what_o duty_n it_o be_v and_o hence_o it_o often_o come_v ●o_o pass_v that_o the_o time_n that_o shall_v be_v spend_v in_o self-examination_n we_o spend_v it_o in_o prayer_n reading_z or_o conference_n which_o ready_o go_v the_o worse_a with_o u●_n that_o examination_n be_v so_o much_o neglect_v therefore_o there_o will_v be_v wariness_n and_o circumspection_n here_o because_o that_o which_o give_v peace_n be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o be_v much_o in_o duty_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v in_o the_o duty_n that_o we_o be_v call_v ●o_o for_o the_o time_n there_o be_v a_o link_a of_o duty_n to_o another_o in_o a_o christian_a walk_n as_o so_o many_o jewel_n precious-stone_n or_o pearl_n in_o a_o chain_n necklace_n or_o bracelet_n so_o as_o they_o strengthen_v and_o help_v one_o another_o meditation_n help_v prayer_n and_o prayer_n self-examination_n and_o self-examination_n help_v prayer_n and_o every_o other_o duty_n and_o that_o which_o beautify_v and_o adorn_v the_o chain_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n be_v the_o order_n and_o set_v of_o every_o duty_n in_o its_o own_o place_n every_o thing_n be_v beautiful_a in_o its_o own_o season_n and_o place_n thus_o the_o bless_a man_n be_v say_v psal._n 1_o to_o bring_v forth_o his_o fruit_n in_o his_o season_n in_o the_o four_o place_v according_a to_o the_o method_n propose_v we_o will_v very_o brief_o give_v you_o a_o few_o direction_n for_o facilitate_v the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o for_o make_v it_o successful_a and_o profitable_a and_o to_o this_o purpose_n 1._o learn_v to_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o the_o piece_n and_o step_n of_o your_o way_n and_o this_o will_v give_v you_o the_o better_a heart_n to_o look_v back_o on_o it_o if_o christian_n be_v 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evil_a and_o wrong_v for_o when_o ●e_a study_n to_o look_v over_o and_o review_v your_o ●ay_n in_o prayer_n it_o help_v you_o to_o get_v the_o better_a and_o more_o impartial_a sight_n of_o the_o particular_n thereof_o in_o exam_n nation_n and_o when_o you_o do_v not_o dwell_v in_o a_o manner_n on_o the_o thought_n of_o your_o way_n in_o prayer_n it_o make_v it_o the_o more_o uncouth_a and_o confuse_a to_o you_o in_o examination_n thus_o when_o the_o sabbath_n come_v we_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o confess_v to_o god_n in_o prayer_n the_o sin_n that_o haunt_v we_o that_o day_n and_o this_o will_v help_v to_o examination_n and_o examination_n will_v help_v to_o be_v yet_o more_o particular_a in_o prayer_n 3_o as_o for_o other_o durke_n so_o for_o this_o you_o will_v have_v your_o set_a time_n of_o purpose_n i_o say_v for_o this_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o for_o prayer_n and_o will_v let_v no_o other_o duty_n shuffle_v it_o out_o of_o its_o own_o place_n and_o season_n for_o when_o we_o leave_v the_o time_n thereof_o at_o a_o uncertainty_n we_o ready_o shi●t_v and_o neglect_v it_o as_o in_o prayer_n though_o we_o will_v observe_v and_o take_v hold_v of_o all_o providential_a opportunity_n for_o it_o yet_o that_o do_v not_o hinder_v but_o we_o have_v and_o shall_v have_v our_o particular_a set_a time_n for_o it_o so_o ought_v it_o to_o be_v here_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v psal._n 4._o commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n or_o examine_v your_o se●ves_n upon_o your_o bed_n 4_o this_o set_a time_n will_v be_v when_o person_n be_v most_o fresh_a and_o fit_a for_o the_o duty_n and_o have_v the_o waite_v opportunity_n to_o insist_v in_o and_o to_o dwell_v on_o it_o and_o to_o follow_v it_o till_o they_o be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o till_o somewhat_o of_o it_o be_v reach_v for_o when_o we_o straiten_v ourselves_o and_o take_v not_o such_o a_o time_n as_o be_v fit_a for_o the_o duty_n we_o will_v not_o get_v it_o follow_v out_o to_o any_o purpose_n and_o get_v time_n also_o for_o prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n and_o that_o cause_v overlinesse_n ready_o in_o all_o we_o will_v therefore_o take_v such_o a_o time_n for_o this_o duty_n that_o we_o may_v not_o so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v forecast_v be_v divert_v and_o draw_v away_o from_o it_o by_o some_o other_o thing_n 5_o when_o some_o other_o thing_n not_o then_o necessary_a break_v in_o to_o divert_v and_o draw_v we_o away_o from_o it_o we_o will_v take_v ourselves_o again_o and_o again_o and_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v our_o heart_n back_o and_o up_o to_o the_o duty_n that_o they_o get_v not_o leave_v to_o break_v louse_n for_o if_o the_o heart_n get_v a_o custom_n of_o gade_v and_o admit_v of_o diversion_n it_o will_v never_o ready_o suffer_v we_o to_o be_v serious_a in_o this_o duty_n and_o therefore_o by_o all_o mean_n when_o you_o go_v about_o this_o duty_n of_o self_n examination_n beware_v of_o and_o guard_n against_o the_o intrusion_n of_o other_o thought_n whither_o they_o be_v vain_a 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of_o this_o duty_n and_o of_o all_o we_o have_v discourse_v on_o it_o even_o to_o send_v we_o to_o ch●ist_v and_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o leave_v we_o on_o he_o which_o will_v make_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o heart_n some_o pleasant_a and_o profitable_a to_o we_o sermon_n iu._n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o for_o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o in_o 〈◊〉_d and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o to_o you_o ward_v there_o be_v hardly_o any_o thing_n excellent_a and_o very_o singular_o profitable_a to_o man_n but_o it_o have_v some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a difficulty_n in_o the_o way_n of_o come_v at_o it_o notwithstanding_o whereof_o they_o be_v not_o deter_v nor_o detain_v from_o pursue_v after_o it_o the_o consideration_n of_o its_o excellency_n with_o the_o expectation_n of_o the_o great_a income_n of_o advantage_n and_o profit_n by_o it_o make_v they_o the_o more_o easy_o comport_v with_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o and_o to_o think_v all_o their_o labour_n well_o bestow_v in_o overcome_v that_o difficulty_n so_o we_o may_v true_o say_v of_o the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n that_o it_o be_v so_o transcendent_o excellent_a as_o be_v that_o which_o beautiful_o conform_v the_o rational_a to_o the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o capacitat_v the_o same_o to_o enjoy_v fellowship_n with_o he_o wherein_o its_o true_a glory_n and_o excellency_n incontrovertible_o consist_v and_o so_o very_o profitable_a even_o profitable_a to_o all_o thing_n as_o nothing_o else_o in_o the_o world_n be_v have_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o life_n that_o
now_o be_v and_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o the_o great_a difficulty_n shall_v not_o fright_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d nor_o faint_v we_o in_o the_o vigorous_a constant_a and_o close_a pursuit_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o this_o piece_n of_o godliness_n in_o particular_a that_o lie_v in_o the_o conscientious_o tender_a order_n and_o disposal_n of_o all_o our_o action_n in_o order_n to_o win_v at_o the_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n concern_v they_o have_v much_o difficulty_n in_o it_o as_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o natural_a levity_n waver_v and_o instability_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o mighty_o oppose_v by_o satan_n as_o greedy_a prejudicial_a to_o his_o interest_n in_o the_o soul_n yet_o it_o be_v so_o very_o excellent_a and_o so_o exceed_o useful_a and_o profitable_a to_o the_o christian_a as_o we_o make_v appear_v from_o our_o last_o discourse_n on_o these_o word_n that_o all_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o may_v be_v the_o more_o easy_o digest_v it_o have_v as_o the_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n have_v when_o right_o go_v about_o its_o reward_n in_o the_o bosom_n thereof_o o_o what_o sweet_a peace_n what_o strong_a consolation_n and_o what_o unspeakable_a joy_n have_v the_o apostle_n here_o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n after_o discover_v his_o action_n to_o be_v so_o order_v by_o this_o serious_a self-reflection_n and_o examination_n whereof_o special_a notice_n will_v be_v take_v we_o shall_v therefore_o now_o proceed_v to_o observe_v some_o thing_n more_o particular_o from_o the_o text_n to_o this_o purpose_n first_o then_o observe_v that_o when_o conscience_n be_v well_o please_v with_o a_o man_n way_n it_o will_v give_v a_o testimony_n for_o he_o or_o when_o conscience_n have_v put_v a_o man_n way_n to_o proof_n it_o will_v not_o only_o in_o the_o general_n speak_v its_o sense_n but_o when_o his_o way_n be_v well_o order_v and_o square_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o he_o in_o his_o design_n be_v find_v straight_o and_o to_o have_v take_v his_o aim_n right_a conscience_n will_v after_o examination_n excuse_n and_o bear_v he_o witness_v to_o his_o joy_n thus_o be_v paul_n deal_v with_o here_o by_o his_o conscience_n this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v say_v he_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n which_o be_v not_o simple_o conscience_n speak_v but_o conscience_n speak_v for_o vindicate_v he_o from_o these_o aspersion_n that_o be_v cast_v upon_o he_o or_o excuse_v he_o as_o the_o word_n be_v rom._n 2._o 15._o and_o testify_v that_o he_o be_v not_o the_o man_n that_o some_o man_n count_v he_o to_o be_v he_o have_v this_o testimony_n that_o in_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n he_o have_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o towards_o they_o in_o corinth_n which_o after_o search_n he_o find_v to_o be_v so_o that_o which_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n make_v this_o out_o for_o conscience_n when_o right_a speak_v of_o thing_n as_o they_o indeed_o be_v and_o hold_v forth_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o give_v sentence_n according_a to_o it_o when_o he_o be_v well_o please_v to_o declare_v and_o pronounce_v pardon_n and_o peace_n and_o when_o he_o be_v displease_v to_o declare_v anger_n and_o as_o it_o be_v to_o denunce_v war._n whereof_o we_o will_v make_v this_o use_n even_o to_o learn_v not_o only_o to_o study_v to_o know_v take_v up_o and_o discern_v the_o work_n 〈◊〉_d conscience_n in_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v which_o for_o ●ost_o part_v it_o do_v have_v so_o much_o ground_n to_o do_v so_o but_o ●so_o its_o work_n in_o absolve_v excuse_v and_o give_v a_o good_a testimony_n 2_o observe_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n or_o its_o bear_a witness_n for_o a_o man_n after_o reflect_v upon_o and_o search_v of_o his_o way_n be_v exceed_v refreshful_a comfortable_a and_o joyous_a this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v say_v the_o apostle_n the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o heartsome_a refresh_v and_o cheer_v to_o a_o tender_a walker_n neither_o can_v there_o ready_o be_v any_o thing_n on_o this_o side_n heaven_n more_o solacious_a and_o joyous_a to_o he_o then_o when_o he_o have_v examine_v his_o conscience_n to_o find_v it_o testify_v for_o he_o this_o be_v the_o great_a ground_n of_o paul_n joy_n and_o rejoice_v though_o he_o live_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o manifold_a temptation_n and_o tribulation_n and_o be_v account_v to_o be_v the_o most_o contemptible_a of_o man_n even_o as_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o offscouring_a of_o all_o thing_n yet_o he_o have_v solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n on_o this_o ground_n that_o when_o he_o look_v back_o on_o his_o way_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o his_o ministry_n his_o conscience_n bear_v he_o witness_v that_o he_o have_v be_v single_a and_o faithful_a therein_o and_o as_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o paul_n so_o it_o have_v be_v with_o many_o of_o the_o lord_n people_n who_o have_v humble_o boast_v and_o rejoice_v in_o this_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n within_o when_o man_n have_v speak_v evil_a of_o they_o reproach_v and_o revile_v they_o without_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o point_n we_o will_v consider_v a_o little_a 1._o some_o particular_a case_n wherein_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n prove_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n refresh_v and_o rejoice_v 2_o we_o will_v consider_v the_o particular_a ground_n and_o attendant_n of_o this_o refresh_n and_o joy_n whereby_o we_o will_v easy_o see_v that_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n for_o a_o man_n upon_o the_o search_n of_o his_o way_n be_v a_o singular_o good_a thing_n for_o before_o a_o man_n search_v his_o way_n he_o can_v solid_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o testimony_n that_o conscience_n give_v of_o it_o nor_o can_v look_v on_o it_o as_o well_o ground_v because_o he_o be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v sure_a whether_o there_o be_v any_o ground_n and_o warrant_n for_o it_o or_o not_o whereas_o when_o he_o have_v suitable_o search_v for_o the_o ground_n and_o warrant_n where_o they_o be_v they_o will_v ready_o discover_v themselves_o to_o he_o as_o to_o the_o particular_a case_n wherein_o this_o testimony_n prove_v singular_o refresh_v and_o joyous_a they_o be_v these_o and_o the_o like_a 1._o in_o a_o case_n of_o external_a cross_n and_o trouble_n in_o the_o world_n none_o of_o these_o much_o move_v a_o man_n that_o have_v this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n it_o give_v he_o sweet_a peace_n amid_o they_o all_o we_o see_v what_o mighty_a trouble_v paul_n be_v under_o chap._n 11._o v._n 25_o 26_o 27._o yet_o he_o can_v and_o do_v rejoice_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o 2._o when_o external_a cross_n and_o loss_n have_v sad_a aggravation_n attend_v they_o such_o as_o the_o contempt_n and_o reproach_n of_o the_o man_n of_o the_o world_n when_o he_o be_v calumnious_o represent_v as_o one_o that_o turn_v the_o world_n up_o side_n down_o and_o who_o be_v deserve_o so_o deal_v with_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n in_o that_o case_n give_v he_o peace_n quietness_n and_o joy_n which_o be_v the_o very_a case_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n here_o rejoice_v on_o this_o account_n a_o 3d._a case_n be_v when_o inward_a challenge_n and_o temptation_n accompany_v outward_a affliction_n when_o these_o be_v muster_v up_o before_o and_o make_v a_o assault_n on_o the_o poor_a afflict_a man_n and_o when_o there_o be_v some_o fearful_a apprehension_n of_o god_n displeasure_n bear_v in_o upon_o he_o then_o o_o than_o conscience_n testimony_n give_v wonderful_a quietness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v it_o do_v to_o holy_a job_n who_o say_v in_o this_o case_n chap._n 27._o v._n 6._o my_o heart_n shall_v not_o reproach_v i_o so_o long_o as_o i_o live_v so_o chap._n 31._o throughout_o and_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v solid_a and_o well-grounded_n quietness_n rest_n and_o repose_v of_o soul_n that_o calm_v a_o man_n in_o this_o case_n 4_o when_o the_o person_n draw_v near_o unto_o death_n and_o when_o this_o king_n of_o terror_n formidable_o muster_v all_o his_o force_n and_o when_o there_o be_v no_o escape_v out_o of_o his_o hand_n and_o when_o all_o comfort_n fail_v and_o stand_v by_o as_o so_o many_o mut_n not_o have_v one_o word_n to_o say_v for_o the_o die_a man_n relief_n or_o ease_v this_o testimony_n do_v then_o ready_o come_v forth_o in_o its_o strength_n towards_o the_o quiet_v refresh_v and_o rejoice_v of_o his_o heart_n and_o make_v he_o bold_o and_o without_o 〈◊〉_d fear_n encounter_v death_n as_o the_o experience_n of_o hezekiah_n and_o many_o other_o of_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o the_o scripture_n make_v clear_a 2_o consider_v whence_o this_o joy_n come_v or_o the_o ground_n and_o attendant_n of_o the_o joy_n which_o this_o
thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v conscience_n by_o this_o testimony_n smile_v on_o you_o you_o will_v be_v more_o in_o love_n with_o it_o and_o with_o the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n and_o particular_o with_o self-examination_n that_o make_v way_n for_o it_o however_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o ere_o long_o the_o day_n will_v come_v wherein_o many_o of_o youshall_n be_v make_v to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o this_o in_o your_o sad_a experience_n when_o death_n shall_v stair_n you_o grim_o in_o the_o face_n and_o when_o you_o shall_v neither_o be_v able_a to_o send_v nor_o to_o flee_v o_o of_o what_o excellent_a worth_n will_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n then_o be_v find_v to_o be_v hear_v witness_n to_o man_n concern_v their_o honesty_n sincerity_n uprightness_n and_o the_o tenderness_n of_o their_o walk_n many_o of_o you_o will_v find_v it_o though_o you_o believe_v it_o not_o now_o when_o you_o shall_v be_v eternal_o deprive_v of_o such_o a_o testimony_n you_o shall_v then_o be_v make_v to_o know_v to_o your_o everlasting_a cost_n that_o the_o rejoice_v of_o heart_n flow_v from_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v infinite_o preferable_a to_o all_o the_o worldly_a enjoyment_n and_o delight_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n i_o will_v beseech_v such_o of_o you_o as_o think_v yourselves_o to_o be_v wise_a in_o this_o world_n to_o study_v to_o be_v wise_a in_o this_o great_a point_n of_o wisdom_n if_o you_o want_v this_o testimony_n when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o last_o reckon_n you_o will_v be_v for_o ever_o undo_v and_o will_v never_o through_o all_o eternity_n once_o smile_v for_o joy_n but_o weep_v and_o gnash_v your_o tooth_n for_o the_o gnaw_a pain_n that_o the_o never_o die_a worm_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n shall_v cause_v to_o you_o 3_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n that_o will_v be_v thorough_o acquaint_v with_o his_o way_n and_o clear_a in_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n concern_v it_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o the_o examination_n thereof_o or_o thus_o he_o will_v not_o content_v himself_o with_o a_o general_a confuse_a trial_n of_o it_o altogether_o at_o once_o and_o in_o the_o bulk_n but_o he_o will_v try_v it_o by_o part_n and_o parcel_n thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o apostle_n here_o when_o he_o say_v that_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n that_o his_o conversation_n be_v not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n he_o subjoin_v and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n and_o so_o descend_v to_o the_o particular_a that_o be_v in_o controversy_n betwixt_o he_o and_o these_o big_a talk_a doctor_n that_o make_v it_o their_o great_a business_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n to_o derogat_v from_o the_o just_a repute_n of_o his_o person_n and_o ministry_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n concern_v his_o upright_a and_o faithful_a carriage_n in_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o they_o in_o particular_a when_o i_o say_v that_o person_n will_v try_v their_o way_n by_o part_n or_o piece_n i_o mean_v that_o they_o will_v try_v their_o particular_a action_n and_o behaviour_n in_o such_o and_o such_o place_n at_o such_o and_o such_o particular_a time_n of_o their_o life_n because_o by_o this_o mean_n they_o come_v to_o a_o more_o distinct_a knowledge_n of_o their_o carriage_n and_o way_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a other_o way_n when_o man_n take_v up_o their_o way_n together_o by_o the_o lump_n as_o it_o be_v that_o they_o can_v win_v to_o distinctnes_n which_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v at_o in_o some_o measure_n ere_o they_o have_v a_o well_o ground_a testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n from_o solid_a and_o 〈◊〉_d ground_n again_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n wherein_o a_o man_n can_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d when_o he_o reflect_v under_o strong_a temptation_n on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d wise_a and_o sovereign_a providence_n of_o god_n as_o if_o he_o ●ed_v not_o the_o world_n and_o his_o people_n therein_o aright_o as_o abihu_n charge_v job_n some_o way_n to_o have_v do_v when_o he_o say●_n to_o he_o chap._n 33._o v._n 12._o behold_v in_o this_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d not_o just_a though_o job_n will_v not_o take_v with_o it_o that_o he_o be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d yet_o he_o be_v silent_a as_o to_o this_o part_n of_o the_o charge_n be_v its_o like_a convince_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o as_o also_o a_o man_n may_v have_v many_o thing_n very_o blame-worthy_a in_o his_o life_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v in_o one_o or_o more_o particular_n wherewith_o he_o be_v charge_v clear_a and_o innocent_a as_o it_o be_v with_o david_n who_o say_v psal._n 7._o 3._o if_o i_o have_v do_v this_o etc._n etc._n he_o have_v many_o blemish_n yet_o in_o this_o particular_a he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o therefore_o man_n will_v try_v their_o way_n by_o piece_n and_o part_n that_o they_o may_v disallow_v of_o these_o thing_n wherein_o they_o can_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n and_o may_v accept_v of_o its_o testimony_n in_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v right_a that_o they_o may_v reject_v a_o challenge_n when_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o and_o entertain_v it_o where_o there_o be_v ground_n a_o confuse_a general_a way_n of_o self-examination_n have_v two_o bad_a effect_n 1._o it_o keep_v person_n indistinct_a in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o their_o condition_n wherein_o they_o have_v a_o confuse_a fight_n of_o somewhat_o right_a and_o of_o somewhat_o wrong_a but_o know_v not_o what_o it_o i●_n in_o particular_a because_o they_o rest_v and_o sit_v down_o upon_o that_o general_a confuse_a look_n of_o their_o case_n and_o way_n and_o come_v not_o to_o condescend_v on_o particular_n 2_o person_n ready_o either_o absolve_v themselves_o as_o to_o the_o more_o general_a tract_n of_o their_o life_n because_o they_o see_v some_o thing_n honest_a like_o therein_o which_o keep_v they_o from_o take_v with_o just●_n challenge_v or_o else_o they_o condemn_v the_o whole_a of_o their_o life_n because_o they_o see_v something_n wrong_v in_o it_o which_o keep_v they_o from_o comfort_v themselves_o in_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n as_o to_o what_o be_v right_a therefore_o we_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o try_v our_o way_n as_o i_o say_v by_o part_n that_o every_o thing_n may_v have_v its_o own_o place_n and_o weight_n with_o u●_n 4_o consider_v these_o word_n as_o speak_v by_o paul_n who_o take_v much_o pain_n to_o prove_v and_o clear_v his_o condition_n and_o speak_v of_o this_o testimony_n as_o of_o a_o great_a matter_n he_o have_v attain_v to_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a but_o very_o difficult_a even_o for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v take_v pain_n in_o search_v himself_o to_o obtain_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o in_o a_o particular_a it_o be_v not_o so_o small_a a_o matter_n nor_o so_o easy_a a_o business_n as_o many_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n to_o follow_v the_o search_n right_o but_o it_o be_v so_o likeways_o to_o find_v thing_n right_a and_o to_o win_v at_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n as_o to_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o particular_a if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n paul_n will_v not_o lay_v such_o weight_n on_o it_o as_o he_o do_v now_o when_o i_o say_v its_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n i_o mean_v ●_o that_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n and_o such_o as_o every_o one_o do_v not_o attain_v to_o nay_o every_o believer_n have_v it_o not_o as_o to_o every_o part_n and_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n 2_o that_o it_o call_v for_o much_o tenderness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o whole_a of_o a_o man_n practice_n to_o reach_v it_o it_o will_v not_o be_v a_o coarse_a and_o ordinary_a walk_n and_o frame_v of_o heart_n that_o will_v give_v a_o man_n ground_n for_o this_o refresh_a testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n but_o it_o require_v much_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o godliness_n as_o be_v clear_a here_o 3_o that_o beside_o much_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o universal_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n and_o much_o circumspection_n in_o the_o man_n personal_a walk_n and_o conversation_n much_o diligence_n be_v call_v for_o in_o search_v to_o find_v out_o and_o to_o come_v by_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o a_o man_n may_v have_v matter_n and_o ground_n for_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n and_o yet_o through_o the_o neglect_n of_o suitable_a serious_a and_o narrow_a self-examination_n he_o may_v be_v at_o a_o great_a loss_n as_o to_o its_o joyful_a testimony_n for_o he_o even_o as_o one_o may_v be_v
guilty_a of_o many_o sin_n and_o yet_o be_v but_o very_o little_a or_o not_o at_o all_o challenge_v for_o they_o through_o the_o neglect_n of_o self-examination_n 4_o that_o it_o require_v much_o singleness_n in_o try_v of_o conscience_n testimony_n whether_o it_o be_v well_o ground_v or_o not_o for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v his_o peace_n and_o joy_n to_o build_v on_o this_o testimony_n must_v not_o take_v every_o show_n and_o appearance_n of_o such_o a_o testimony_n for_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o peace_n and_o joy_n but_o conscience_n will_v be_v put_v to_o speak_v distinct_o and_o on_o good_a ground_n for_o it_o that_o in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o thing_n there_o be_v some_o sincerity_n and_o this_o must_v be_v put_v to_o the_o proof_n and_o exact_o try_v by_o the_o word_n whether_o it_o be_v so_o or_o not_o as_o we_o see_v here_o the_o apostle_n do_v he_o try_v his_o way_n and_o conversation_n and_o find_v it_o to_o have_v be_v 〈◊〉_d simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n etc._n etc._n from_o which_o premise_n to_o speak_v so_o he_o draw_v the_o refresh_a conclusion_n of_o his_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v now_o if_o we_o look_v to_o all_o these_o or_o to_o any_o one_o of_o they_o whether_o to_o the_o rarity_n of_o it_o among_o most_o man_n yea_o even_o among_o believer_n in_o some_o respect_n or_o to_o the_o exactness_n and_o tenderness_n of_o walk_n that_o be_v requisite_a to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o or_o to_o the_o great_a difficulty_n that_o a_o man_n will_v find_v in_o come_v at_o a_o through_o search_n of_o his_o way_n or_o to_o the_o diligence_n and_o single●_n that_o be_v call_v for_o in_o the_o trial_n of_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n we_o will_v find_v it_o to_o be_v a_o most_o clear_a and_o certain_a truth_n that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o ordinary_a nor_o easy_a business_n but_o very_o difficult_a to_o obtain_v the_o well_o ground_a good_a and_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n as_o to_o our_o more_o general_a and_o particular_a conversation_n if_o it_o be_v so_o which_o be_v the_o ●se_n of_o the_o doctrine_n be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n from_o whence_o the_o peace_n that_o many_o pretend_v to_o comes_z be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n that_o the_o most_o part_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n can_v so_o easy_o affirm_v the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n to_o be_v for_o they_o when_o there_o be_v neither_o exactness_n of_o life_n not_o tenderness_n of_o walk_n nor_o diligence_n in_o self-searching_a nor_o holy_a jealousy_n nor_o impartial_a and_o single_a try_v whether_o it_o be_v well_o ground_v or_o not_o and_o yet_o they_o will_v at_o the_o very_a first_o confident_o pretend_v to_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n if_o many_o of_o you_o be_v put_v to_o it_o can_v you_o give_v such_o evidence_n or_o ground_n for_o its_o testimony_n as_o paul_n do_v here_o if_o not_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o you_o be_v so_o ready_a confident_o to_o lay_v claim_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o ala●e_v there_o be_v nothing_o more_o ordinary_a in_o the_o generality_n of_o these_o that_o be_v most_o carnal_a and_o secure_a then_o bold_o to_o assert_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o honest_a heart_n be_v not_o this_o very_a strange_a wonderful_a and_o even_o 〈◊〉_d that_o under_o the_o clear_a sunshine_n of_o gospel_n light_n satan_n shall_v get_v so_o great_a advantage_n as_o thus_o 〈◊〉_d harden_v the_o heart_n and_o blind_a the_o conscience_n of_o so_o many_o poor_a wretched_a creature_n and_o at_o this_o rate_n to_o de●ude_v and_o 〈◊〉_d they_o as_o to_o prevail_v with_o they_o confident_o to_o assert_v and_o maintain_v that_o which_o they_o call_v their_o honesty_n which_o yet_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o rotten-hearted_a 〈◊〉_d and_o to_o 〈◊〉_d their_o peace_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o soul-murthe●ng_a and_o damn_v 〈◊〉_d for_o further_o clear_v of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o enlarge_n of_o its_o ●se_n and_o for_o help_v you_o to_o judge_v aright_o of_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n in_o your_o search_n after_o it_o we_o shall_v propose_v some_o question_n from_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o a_o well_o ground_v and_o refresh_a testimony_n of_o a_o man_n 〈◊〉_d for_o he_o which_o must_v all_o be_v answer_v in_o some_o measure_n affirmative_o and_o these_o answer_n solid_o and_o well_o prove_v and_o make_v ou●_n before_o you_o can_v quiet_o and_o confident_o rest_v on_o conscience_n testimony_n as_o to_o any_o part_n or_o piece_n of_o your_o way_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o reference_n to_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o sabbath_n to_o confer_v on_o a_o spiritual_a subject_n to_o prayer_n to_o praise_v to_o read_v to_o hear_v to_o eat_v to_o drink_v to_o buy_v to_o sell_v to_o building_n to_o plant_v etc._n etc._n but_o we_o shall_v here_o restrict_n the_o inquiry_n most_o at_o least_o to_o religious_a thing_n or_o action_n that_o be_v religious_a in_o their_o own_o nature_n first_o then_o conscience_n must_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o whether_o that_o which_o you_o have_v do_v be_v on_o the_o matter_n approven_v of_o god_n or_o not_o it_o be_v certain_o true_a you_o will_v say_v that_o prayer_n in_o itself_o be_v approven_v and_o so_o it_o be_v but_o be_v such_o and_o such_o a_o expression_n that_o you_o utter_v and_o such_o a_o word_n that_o you_o speak_v and_o the_o argument_n that_o you_o make_v use_v of_o in_o prayer_n right_a before_o god_n if_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o right_a conscience_n can_v speak_v for_o you_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v as_o warry_a and_o circumspect_a as_o may_v be_v in_o cheat_v circumven_o ●ing_v and_o deceive_v of_o his_o neighbour_n its_o impossible_a for_o conscience_n to_o give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n anent_o it_o or_o any_o other_o such_o action_n because_o it_o be_v on_o the_o matter_n sinful_a you_o must_v once_o then_o be_v sure_a and_o clear_a in_o this_o that_o what_o you_o speak_v or_o do_v in_o prayer_n or_o any_o other_o thing_n be_v as_o to_o its_o matter_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n 2_o conscience_n must_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o not_o only_o whether_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a in_o itself_o but_o also_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n lawful_a to_o you_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o that_o to_o which_o you_o be_v particular_o call_v for_o many_o thing_n be_v lawful_a which_o be_v not_o expedient_a and_o many_o thing_n may_v be_v expedient_a at_o one_o time_n which_o will_v not_o be_v expedient_a at_o another_o take_v it_o in_o the_o instance_n of_o prayer_n wherein_o conscience_n will_v not_o approve_v we_o though_o we_o be_v right_a in_o it_o on_o the_o matter_n if_o it_o be_v not_o right_o time_v or_o if_o we_o be_v not_o then_o call_v to_o it_o this_o be_v to_o be_v take_v heed_n to_o especial_o in_o thing_n that_o be_v on_o the_o matter_n indifferent_a and_o in_o the_o time_v of_o such_o command_v duty_n to_o which_o god_n have_v not_o set_v and_o fix_v a_o particular_a precise_a time_n but_o leave_v they_o to_o christian_a prudence_n to_o be_v go_v about_o by_o person_n at_o these_o time_n which_o be_v most_o seasonable_a and_o as_o they_o be_v call_v to_o they_o 3_o when_o you_o be_v thus_o clear_a as_o to_o the_o matter_n season_n and_o time_n and_o as_o to_o god_n call_v you_o to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n whether_o do_v you_o acknowledge_v god_n in_o your_o undertake_n of_o the_o duty_n be_v he_o look_v to_o for_o direction_n and_o guide_v in_o it_o and_o for_o his_o blessing_n on_o it_o and_o depend_v on_o for_o throwbearing_a according_a to_o that_o notable_a word_n prov._n 3._o 16._o in_o all_o thy_o way_n acknowledge_v he_o and_o he_o shall_v direct_v thy_o path_n in_o this_o also_o conscience_n must_v have_v satisfaction_n 4_o what_o motive_n do_v set_v you_o on_o to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n and_o from_o what_o principle_n do_v you_o do_v it_o for_o a_o duty_n or_o action_n may_v be_v right_a on_o the_o matter_n and_o you_o may_v also_o be_v call_v to_o it_o and_o yet_o if_o you_o be_v not_o swey_v to_o it_o from_o a_o right_a motive_n and_o principle_n it_o will_v mar_v your_o peace_n and_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o conscience_n testify_v for_o you_o that_o be_v though_o you_o shall_v do_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v right_a if_o you_o be_v not_o swey_v to_o it_o out_o of_o conscience_n from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n from_o love_n to_o he_o and_o from_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n it_o be_v faulty_a in_o so_o far_o and_o you_o can_v in_o so_o far_o have_v peace_n nor_o the_o approve_v testimony_n of_o your_o conscience_n therein_o but_o if_o a_o man_n endure_v grief_n and_o suffer_v wrongful_o for_o conscience_n towards_o god_n it_o be_v thank_v worthy_a ●aith_o the_o
to_o speak_v of_o i_o shall_v only_o say_v that_o if_o we_o compare_v the_o universality_n of_o the_o command_n with_o our_o obedience_n thereto_o and_o try_v if_o the_o one_o be_v as_o universal_a as_o the_o other_o be_v if_o there_o be_v a_o respect_n have_v to_o all_o the_o com●nds_n to_o these_o of_o the_o first_o as_o well_o as_o to_o these_o of_o the_o second_o table_n of_o the_o law_n to_o these_o of_o the_o gospel_n as_o well_o as_o to_o these_o of_o the_o law_n and_o if_o we_o take_v a_o view_n of_o our_o conversation_n in_o whole_a and_o in_o the_o part_n of_o it_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o worship_n and_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o particular_a calling_n station_n and_o relation_n if_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v be_v single_o aim_v at_o in_o all_o these_o at_o all_o time_n sabbath-day_n and_o weekday_n in_o all_o condition_n in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n in_o all_o place_n at_o home_o and_o abroad_o in_o the_o shop_n and_o in_o the_o family_n in_o journey_n by_o land_n and_o voyage_n by_o sea_n for_o conscience_n come_v in_o as_o concern_v in_o all_o place_n and_o in_o all_o company_n and_o will_v put_v the_o question_n whether_o we_o be_v call_v to_o go_v to_o such_o a_o place_n and_o to_o be_v in_o such_o a_o company_n or_o not_o and_o will_v expect_v a_o answer_n as_o to_o all_o these_o thing_n condition_n time_n place_n and_o company_n if_o i_o say_v we_o try_v conscience_n as_o to_o all_o these_o we_o will_v find_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o very_a rare_a thing_n and_o that_o it_o be_v not_o so_o easy_o either_o attain_v or_o entertain_v as_o many_o imagine_v it_o to_o be_v and_o that_o withal_o its_o evident_a and_o undeniable_a hence_o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o most_o man_n and_o woman_n be_v not_o so_o good_a as_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o aver_v they_o to_o be_v which_o they_o will_v one_o day_n find_v if_o a_o gracious_a change_n prevent_v not_o to_o their_o unspeakable_a and_o irreparable_a loss_n and_o prejudice_n sermon_n ii_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o true_a religion_n and_o godliness_n consist_v not_o only_o in_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o in_o the_o conception_n and_o contemplation_n of_o the_o truth_n concern_v god_n and_o the_o gospel_n but_o also_o and_o main_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o know_a duty_n thereof_o and_o very_o ordinary_o there_o be_v more_o of_o the_o concern_v of_o conscience_n and_o of_o its_o solid_a peace_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o more_o common_a and_o well_o know_v duty_n that_o be_v even_o at_o our_o hand_n then_o in_o the_o speculation_n of_o and_o painful_a search_n after_o thing_n that_o be_v more_o mysterious_a and_o obscure_a we_o will_v decry_v none_o of_o these_o nor_o dissuade_v any_o from_o a_o sober_a inquiry_n after_o they_o who_o be_v more_o call_v to_o it_o than_o other_o yet_o we_o will_v give_v every_o one_o of_o they_o their_o own_o due_a place_n and_o will_v by_o all_o mean_n take_v heed_n that_o we_o separate_v and_o divide_v not_o the_o power_n and_o practice_v of_o religion_n from_o the_o theory_n thereof_o and_o that_o we_o prefer_v not_o the_o search_n after_o some_o more_o cryptick_a and_o dark_a thing_n in_o religion_n to_o the_o serious_a practice_n of_o the_o more_o plain_a and_o obvious_a truth_n thereof_o for_o the_o prevent_n whereof_o as_o by_o other_o mean_n so_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n very_o ordinary_o in_o the_o close_a of_o his_o epistle_n after_o more_o doctrinal_a discourse_n subjoyn_v some_o plain_a and_o familiar_a direction_n concern_v the_o practice_n of_o such_o duty_n that_o be_v general_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v among_o which_o this_o be_v one_o viz._n prayer_n for_o one_o another_o and_o more_o particular_o and_o especial_o for_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n pray_v for_o we_o faith_n he_o in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o verse_n we_o will_v then_o learn_v conscientious_o to_o improve_v our_o light_n and_o knowledge_n towards_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o most_o of_o these_o that_o be_v most_o necessary_a and_o particular_o we_o will_v learn_v to_o lay_v due_a weight_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n minister_n will_v neither_o disdain_v nor_o think_v shame_n to_o call_v for_o the_o help_n of_o the_o people_n prayer_n neither_o will_v people_n neglect_v nor_o think_v it_o needless_a or_o a_o burden_n to_o they_o to_o take_v a_o serious_a lift_n of_o their_o minister_n in_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n when_o we_o press_v obedience_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n we_o will_v press_v obedience_n to_o this_o among_o the_o rest_n which_o whoever_o neglect_n will_v in_o so_o far_o mar_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o conscience_n before_o god_n for_o they_o can_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n if_o they_o neglect_v or_o flight_v this_o piece_n of_o their_o duty_n therefore_o without_o further_a insist_v in_o it_o we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n pray_v for_o we_o the_o other_o thing_n in_o the_o verse_n whereof_o we_o begin_v to_o speak_v the_o last_o day_n be_v the_o reason_n or_o motive_n whereby_o paul_n press_v they_o to_o this_o duty_n by_o which_o a_o objection_n be_v obviate_v they_o may_v belike_o say_v at_o least_o think_v that_o he_o be_v a_o asperse_v reproach_v and_o ill-spoken_a of_o man_n and_o that_o therefore_o they_o have_v but_o small_a ground_n of_o encouragement_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o no_o say_v he_o notwithstanding_o these_o aspersion_n which_o be_v false_a and_o groundless_a pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o because_o this_o assertion_n may_v look_v big_a he_o qualify_v it_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v wherein_o he_o clear_v what_o he_o mean_v and_o prove_v that_o he_o speak_v not_o at_o random_n we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n will_v in_o all_o thing_n say_v he_o to_o live_v honest_o we_o may_v and_o do_v fail_v and_o come_v short_a as_o to_o the_o length_n we_o shall_v be_v 〈◊〉_d but_o it_o beside_o our_o purpose_n our_o desire_n design_n and_o endeavour_n be_v faithful_o to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n observe_v 1._o here_o that_o a_o honest_a and_o good_a life_n or_o walk_v and_o a_o honest_a and_o good_a conscience_n go_v together_o there_o be_v always_o a_o suitableness_n betwixt_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o person_n conscience_n within_o and_o the_o order_n of_o his_o walk_n and_o conversation_n without_o or_o thus_o as_o a_o man_n life_n be_v so_o be_v his_o conscience_n if_o the_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v honest_a than_o a_o man_n may_v have_v and_o have_v a_o honest_a and_o good_a conscience_n but_o if_o his_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v untender_a dishonest_a profane_a and_o louse_n he_o can_v possible_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o affirm_v titus_n 1._o 15._o and_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v clear_a because_o conscience_n well_o ground_v testimony_n must_v be_v according_a to_o truth_n and_o speak_v out_o the_o thing_n as_o indeed_o it_o be_v and_o as_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v ill_a and_o wrong_n it_o can_v speak_v peace_n and_o good_a so_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v right_a it_o will_v not_o speak_v ill_o for_o use_v of_o it_o do_v not_o separat_fw-la these_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v conjoin_v think_v never_o to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n when_o you_o have_v not_o a_o honest_a conversation_n it_o may_v be_v find_v without_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o a_o very_a diligent_a search_n that_o many_o do_v presumptuous_o and_o groundless_o speak_v and_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o their_o conversation_n that_o look_v like_o it_o let_v be_v warrant_n it_o but_o if_o you_o will_v certain_o know_v the_o companion_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n take_v it_o from_o paul_n it_o be_v even_o a_o live_n honest_o i_o will_v only_o here_o have_v you_o to_o take_v this_o caveat_n in_o the_o by_o when_o we_o say_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o honest_a life_n or_o walk_n go_v together_o we_o will_v not_o have_v you_o to_o look_v to_o the_o connexion_n of_o these_o two_o so_o severe_o and_o rigid_o as_o if_o there_o can_v not_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o honest_a walk_n in_o its_o perfection_n without_o all_o slip_n or_o fail_n for_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o a_o deliberate_a fix_v and_o settle_a purpose_n and_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o live_v and_o walk_v honest_o which_o may_v consist_v with_o slip_n and_o fall_n of_o infirmity_n this_o willingness_n to_o live_v
willing_a afterward_o more_o large_o to_o insist_v in_o not_o only_o the_o necessity_n of_o come_v to_o christ_n but_o of_o know_v certain_o that_o you_o be_v get_v out_o of_o black_a nature_n into_o he_o and_o have_v get_v your_o conscience_n purge_v by_o his_o blood_n think_v you_o it_o a_o small_a or_o little_o concern_v matter_n to_o be_v lie_v in_o a_o ●est_n house_n where_o thousand_o die_v at_o your_o right_n and_o left_a hand_n and_o not_o to_o know_v if_o you_o be_v cleanse_v to_o have_v the_o plague_n in_o your_o bosom_n and_o not_o to_o know_v whether_o you_o be_v cure_v of_o it_o or_o o●_n not_o and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o all_o of_o you_o while_o you_o be_v in_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o if_o you_o will_v as_o you_o be_v mighty_o concern_v have_v some_o evidence_n whereby_o you_o may_v be_v help_v to_o know_v if_o you_o be_v as_o yet_o purge_v from_o this_o total_a pollution_n there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v gather_v from_o this_o verse_n to_o that_o purpose_n and_o 1._o do_v you_o ever_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v your_o conscience_n to_o be_v defile_v it_o can_v hardly_o be_v ex-expected_n that_o a_o man_n have_v such_o a_o botch_n and_o plague_n run_v on_o he_o can_v think_v serious_o of_o let_v be_v serious_o seek_v after_o wash_v before_o he_o know_v that_o he_o be_v thus_o defile_v and_o thereby_o in_o such_o a_o deplorable_a state_n i_o speak_v not_o now_o of_o what_o gracious_a change_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o some_o person_n more_o early_o and_o in_o their_o young_a year_n nor_o how_o secret_o and_o little_o discernible_o the_o work_n of_o conversion_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o some_o that_o be_v come_v to_o age_n but_o i_o speak_v of_o god_n more_o ordinary_a way_n of_o deal_v and_o reclaim_v and_o convert_v of_o sinner_n when_o paul_n speak_v of_o himself_o rom._n 7._o he_o tell_v we_o that_o he_o be_v alive_a once_o without_o the_o law_n he_o be_v a_o clean_a man_n as_o he_o think_v and_o in_o his_o own_o eye_n before_o the_o lord_n discover_v sin_n and_o waken_v a_o challenge_n for_o it_o in_o his_o conscience_n but_o when_o the_o commandment_n come_v say_v he_o sin_v revive_v and_o i_o die_v now_o can_v we_o think_v with_o any_o shadow_n of_o reason_n that_o after_o god_n call_v he_o effectual_o by_o his_o grace_n that_o he_o have_v more_o of_o a_o 〈◊〉_d nature_n in_o he_o than_o he_o have_v before_o sure_o no_o but_o the_o body_n of_o death_n the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n be_v now_o clear_o discover_v to_o he_o and_o become_v loathsome_a challenge_n come_v to_o be_v quick_a and_o sharp_o pierce_v and_o his_o conscience_n begin_v to_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o lively_a sense_n of_o its_o own_o defilement_n he_o be_v before_o alive_a or_o rather_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o be_v so_o but_o now_o he_o become_v a_o dead_a man_n in_o his_o own_o esteem_n as_o he_o be_v most_o real_o before_o the_o gracious_a change_n be_v wrought_v and_o sin_n to_o his_o sense_n revive_v and_o he_o as_o to_o any_o account_n of_o his_o own_o righteousness_n 〈◊〉_d o_o si●s_n do_v you_o understand_v this_o doctrine_n we_o be_v afraid_a that_o many_o of_o you_o do_v not_o understand_v it_o at_o least_o in_o your_o own_o experience_n and_o for_o as_o abominable_a as_o corrupt_v nature_n and_o sin_n be_v that_o yet_o you_o be_v sleep_v secure_o in_o it_o and_o be_v often_o return_v with_o the_o dog_n to_o lick_v up_o that_o ●ile_a u●mit_n it_o be_v a_o very_a shrewd_a and_o evil_a token_n of_o a_o defile_a and_o unclean_a conscience_n where_o there_o be_v never_o any_o challenge_n for_o nor_o any_o the_o lest_o kindly_a sense_n of_o its_o defilement_n and_o pollution_n 2._o be_v the_o conscience_n ever_o wa●hen_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o alwise_o till_o that_o be_v it_o be_v defile_v and_o pollute_v do_v you_o ever_o find_v your_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d pollute_v that_o you_o can_v not_o get_v live_v with_o it_o 〈◊〉_d you_o be_v make_v to_o run_v to_o the_o fountain_n open_v up_o in_o the_o house_n of_o david_n for_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n speak_v of_o z●ch_n 13._o 1._o ●_o suppose_v several_a of_o you_o have_v have_v now_o and_o then_o your_o own_o challenge_n for_o sin_n but_o what_o course_n 〈◊〉_d you_o to_o 〈◊〉_d do_v you_o strive_v to_o close_v and_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o your_o conscience_n by_o betake_v yourselves_o to_o pass_v ●ime_n and_o to_o good_a company_n as_o you_o use_v to_o call_v it_o look_v on_o such_o exercise_n as_o too_o many_o do_v as_o a_o fit_a of_o melancholy_a or_o do_v 〈◊〉_d go_v ●ther_o to_o betake_v yourselves_o for_o silence_v your_o conscience_n to_o prayer_n and_o reading_n good_a in_o themselves_o only_o without_o go_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o will_v not_o ●e_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o clean_a and_o purge_v conscience_n but_o there_o must_v be_v a_o bring_n of_o i●_n to_o the_o fountain_n to_o jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v cleanse_v and_o calm_v thus_o it_o be_v with_o paul_n rom._n 7._o who_o when_o he_o see_v his_o pollution_n even_o in_o but_o a_o small_a remander_n of_o it_o and_o be_v challenge_v for_o it_o rom._n 7._o c●yes_n o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o ●_o who_o shall_v delve_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n and_o subjoin_v i_o thank_v god_n 〈◊〉_d jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n he_o can_v quiet_v himself_o no_o where_o 〈◊〉_d nothing_o but_o in_o christ_n it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n when_o person_n can_v admit_v the_o thought_n of_o no_o other_o way_n of_o cleanse_v and_o ●ing_v their_o conscience_n but_o by_o bring_v they_o to_o christ_n and_o his_o blood_n especial_o when_o the_o sense_n of_o 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o ●aith_n of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o blood_n have_v bring_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d bring_v they_o to_o he_o as_o the_o fountain_n 3._o we_o will_v ask_v you_o if_o the_o effect_n of_o a_o clean_a conscience_n have_v follow_v your_o betake_v of_o yourselves_o to_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v a_o clean_a life_n and_o honest_a walk_n and_o conversation_n for_o a_o purge_a conscience_n will_v have_v a_o purge_v and_o honest_a walk_n follow_v on_o it_o and_o if_o man_n have_v once_o get_v a_o cleanse_a and_o purge_v conscience_n they_o will_v be_v very_o cheery_a of_o it_o and_o loath_a to_o pollute_v it_o again_o and_o their_o great_a work_n will_v be_v to_o live_v so_o as_o they_o may_v not_o pollute_v it_o but_o ●h_a how_o few_o how_o lamentable_o few_o have_v attain_v to_o this_o effect_n there_o be_v many_o purge_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v like_o the_o sweep_n and_o garnishing_n of_o that_o house_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o gospel_n that_o make_v it_o ready_a for_o the_o devil_n to_o re-enter_v into_o with_o seven_o spirit_n worse_o than_o himself_o many_o after_o light_n and_o transient_a touch_n of_o challenge_n become_v more_o harden_v and_o presumptuous_a more_o secure_a and_o carnal_a than_o they_o be_v before_o and_o their_o conscience_n digest_v as_o it_o be_v great_a sin_n better_a and_o more_o easy_o than_o it_o have_v wont_a to_o do_v and_o it_o fare_v with_o they_o according_a to_o that_o proverb_n 2_o pet._n 2._o ●lt_n often_o cite_v the_o dog_n be_v return_v to_o his_o vomit_n and_o the_o sow_n that_o be_v wash_v to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n their_o corrupt_a and_o filthy_a nature_n be_v still_o to_o the_o ●ore_o they_o fall_v a_o lick_n up_o that_o which_o former_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v vomit_v out_o and_o return_v to_o their_o former_a louse_n carriage_n 4._o what_o discord_n and_o war_n be_v there_o with_o any_o remainder_n 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v yet_o come_v to_o a_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n and_o pollution_n that_o be_v behind_o what_o resent_v and_o loathe_v be_v there_o of_o it_o if_o the_o conscience_n be_v purge_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v keep_v pure_a new_a defilement_n will_v be_v very_o unwelcome_a guest_n and_o exceed_o troublesome_a to_o your_o peace_n the_o bond_n woman_n son_n to_o say_v so_o must_v not_o abide_v with_o the_o free-woman_n in_o the_o house_n but_o must_v be_v cast_v out_o and_o will_v be_v endeavour_v to_o be_v cast_v out_o while_o a_o man_n be_v in_o black_a nature_n sin_n be_v at_o home_n and_o any_o motion_n to_o sin_n be_v entertain_v and_o even_o in_o a_o manner_n invite_v and_o woo_v but_o when_o a_o man_n come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o his_o sta●e_v and_o grace_n get_v the_o dominion_n his_o great_a care_n and_o work_n be_v to_o get_v the_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n cast_v out_o and_o if_o any_o thing_n of_o it_o come_v back_o or_o stay_v still_o within_o that_o he_o can_v get_v cast_v out_o he_o loathe_v it_o and_o can_v bear_v with_o it_o nor_o dwell_v satisfy_o in_o the_o
consider_v that_o the_o best_a and_o most_o discern_a man_n may_v be_v mistake_v in_o their_o application_n of_o these_o evidence_n to_o we_o neither_o be_v it_o the_o end_n of_o conference_n to_o be_v a_o ground_n of_o peace_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n there_o be_v no_o solid_a course_n take_v how_o to_o get_v our_o debt_n paye●_n and_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n satify_v our_o main_n yea_o our_o first_o work_n will_v be_v to_o be_v take_v ourselves_o to_o the_o cautioner_n and_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v under_o the_o conviction_n and_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o guilt_n and_o then_o we_o may_v profitable_o reason_v ourselves_o and_o admit_v of_o the_o reason_n of_o other_o for_o help_v to_o quiet_v our_o conscience_n and_o unless_o there_o be_v actual_a flee_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o his_o blood_n precede_v and_o go_v before_o word_n of_o comfort_n or_o direction_n speak_v whether_o in_o private_a or_o in_o public_a this_o word_n of_o god_n declare_v they_o to_o be_v null_n and_o vo●d_v as_o to_o any_o advantage_n to_o we_o 4_o observe_v that_o when_o nothing_o can_v pacify_v a_o eull_n and_o defile_v conscience_n nor_o purge_v it_o from_o dead_a work_n the_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n by_o faith_n can_v and_o will_v purge_v that_o conscience_n and_o give_v peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o it_o with_o holy_a and_o humble_a confidence_n and_o boldness_n in_o come_v and_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n as_o if_o in_o some_o respect_n it_o have_v never_o be_v defile_v by_o these_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v the_o apostle_n great_a scope_n and_o design_n here_o to_o press_v these_o two_o which_o be_v the_o two_o branch_n of_o the_o doctrine_n 1._o the_o sufficiency_n of_o christ_n blood_n as_o the_o price_n that_o ●atisfies_v divine_a justice_n and_o quiet_v the_o conscience_n for_o when_o the_o conscience_n get_v this_o blood_n apply_v to_o it_o by_o faith_n it_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o crave_v any_o further_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n who_o deputy_n it_o be_v as_o if_o something_o be_v owe_v that_o blood_n as_o a_o full_a and_o condign_a price_n satisfy_v for_o all_o the_o debt_n how_o much_o more_o say_v the_o apostle_n here_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n the_o second_o branch_n be_v that_o which_o follow_v upon_o ●his_fw-la as_o a_o native_a use_n of_o it_o that_o a_o belle●er_n who_o have_v flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n after_o the_o commit_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v actual_o apply_v his_o blood_n to_o the_o conscience_n may_v have_v quietness_n in_o it_o and_o go_v with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n to_o god_n and_o may_v on_o this_o ground_n maintain_v his_o peace_n in_o some_o respect_n as_o if_o he_o have_v never_o sin_v so_o ●uos_a the_o apostle_n scope_n if_o we_o look_v to_o the_o 19_o v_o of_o chap._n 10._o and_o forward_o having_n therefore_o brethren_n say_v he_o boldness_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a by_o a_o new_a and_o live_a way_n ●y_a the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o say_v have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n though_o it_o have_v be_v pollute_v before_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o rare_a pearl_n and_o rich_a jewel_n of_o the_o gospel_n one_o of_o the_o excellent_a privilege_n of_o a_o bel●ever_n and_o one_o of_o the_o noble_a and_o notable_a expr●ssions_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o withal_o the_o great_a proo●_n of_o the_o reality_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n viz._n that_o when_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o poor_a believer_n be_v confound_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n put_v on_o the_o wrack_n with_o many_o challenge_n for_o sin_n he_o may_v m●ke_v application_n of_o christ_n blood_n and_o on_o that_o ground_n have_v sweet_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o soul_n for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o we_o shall_v 1._o lay_v down_o some_o ground_n for_o its_o confirmation_n and_o then_o 2_o make_v some_o ●se_n of_o it_o as_o for_o the_o first_o of_o they_o to_o wit_n some_o ground_n to_o confirm_v it_o take_v these_o few_o short_o 1._o if_o by_o the_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n there_o be_v solid_a peace_n make_v up_o betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o sinner_n it_o will_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n will_v ●urge_v the_o conscience_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v ground_n of_o peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o it_o for_o say_v john_n epistle_n 1_o chap._n 3._o v._n 20._o god_n be_v great_a than_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n and_o say_v paul_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o though_o we_o know_v nothing_o by_o ourselves_o yet_o be_v we_o not_o hereby_o justify_v but_o ●e_v that_o judge_v we_o be_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v sound_a reason_n god_n have_v nothing_o to_o say_v therefore_o the_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v satisfy_v but_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o 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to_o the_o kind_n because_o it_o have_v the_o like_a precious_a substantial_a effect_n in_o all_o it_o be_v this_o therefore_o that_o must_v give_v quietness_n and_o boldness_n to_o we_o that_o which_o quiet_v they_o be_v a_o look_n an_z often_o renew_v look_n as_o guilt_n be_v of_o new_a contract_v through_o all_o these_o type_n and_o shadow_n to_o christ_n all_o of_o they_o have_v their_o original_n and_o actual_a pollution_n whereby_o their_o conscience_n be_v some_o w●y_n defile_v and_o disquiet_v yet_o through_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n they_o win_v to_o peace_n purge_v i_o say_v david_n psal._n 51._o with_o hyssop_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v clean_a etc._n etc._n even_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v write_v his_o lybel_n and_o he_o be_v under_o challenge_n for_o his_o guilt_n he_o have_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o interest_n and_o attain_v peace_n through_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o come_v signify_v by_o purge_v with_o hyssop_n for_o that_o ground_n stand_v sure_a which_o be_v lay_v down_o act_n 13._o 38_o 39_o be_v it_o know_v unto_o you_o therefore_o man_n and_o brethren_n that_o through_o this_o man_n be_v preach_v unto_o you_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n and_o by_o he_o all_o that_o believe_v be_v 〈◊〉_d from_o all_o thing_n from_o which_o you_o can_v not_o be_v justify_v by_o the_o law_n o●_n moses_n there_o be_v indeed_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v a_o large_a and_o long_a 〈◊〉_d and_o indictment_n that_o sin_n and_o t●e_v law_n and_o the_o conscience_n have_v against_o you_o but_o be_v it_o know_v unto_o you_o that_o through_o jesus_n christ_n remission_n of_o sin_n be_v preach_v to_o you_o and_o that_o through_o say_v in_o he_o you_o be_v justify_v and_o fir_v
they_o have_v pay_v their_o own_o debt_n and_o satisfy_v justice_n in_o their_o own_o person_n have_v that_o be_v possible_a and_o if_o on_o ●his_v bargan_n and_o transaction_n all_o his_o suffering_n be_v bu●lt_v then_o sure_o there_o be_v in_o christ_n death_n a_o most_o solid_a and_o sufficient_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o finner_n that_o have_v flee_v to_o he_o and_o close_v with_o his_o satisfaction_n even_o as_o solid_a and_o sufficient_a as_o if_o he_o have_v pay_v the_o debt_n himself_o for_o it_o be_v blasphem●e_a to_o imagine_v such_o a_o covenant_n so_o lay_v down_o and_o for_o such_o a_o end_n and_o not_o to_o be_v most_o real_a and_o effectual_a for_o reach_v the_o end_n this_o covenant_n be_v most_o sure_a and_o this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v ●_o cor._n 5._o ult_n viz._n to_o make_v he_o sin_n for_o we_o who_o kn●w_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o by_o the_o same_o covenant_n and_o good_a will_n of_o god_n father_n son_n and_o spirit_n concur_v to_o lay_v down_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n christ_n be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o not_o against_o his_o will_n but_o with_o his_o will_n for_o he_o be_v most_o willing_a to_o undergo_v the_o work_n as_o be_v clear_a from_o psal._n 40._o compare_v with_o heb._n 10._o and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n or_o rather_o end_n for_o which_o he_o be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o even_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o that_o he_o be_v find_v the_o sinner_n and_o deal_v with_o as_o the_o sinner_n we_o may_v be_v declare_v righteous_a not_o as_o if_o we_o have_v never_o sin_v but_o that_o by_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n and_o god_n gracious_a accept_n of_o it_o for_o we_o we_o be_v reckon_v free_a as_o if_o we_o have_v pay_v the_o debt_n ourselves_o in_o our_o own_o person_n and_o if_o the_o covenant_n betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o mediator_n have_v a_o real_a effect_n on_o christ_n jesus_n the_o cautioner_n if_o he_o real_o take_v on_o our_o nature_n and_o in_o that_o nature_n suffer_v and_o pay_v our_o debt_n if_o our_o iniquity_n in_o the_o punishment_n of_o they_o do_v meet_v on_o he_o as_o it_o be_v isa._n 53._o the_o lord_n lay_v on_o he_o the_o iniquity_n of_o we_o all_o if_o he_o drink_v the_o bitter_a cup_n that_o we_o shall_v have_v drunken_a and_o satisfy_v justice_n for_o we_o then_o sure_a the_o covenant_n must_v have_v a_o real_a effect_n on_o the_o other_o side_n as_o to_o we_o and_o we_o have_v good_a and_o sufficient_a warrant_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n will_v accept_v of_o that_o satisfaction_n for_o believe_a sinner_n that_o lie_v hold_v thereon_o for_o make_v their_o peace_n and_o that_o he_o will_v as_o real_o keep_v that_o part_n of_o the_o bargain_n viz._n to_o m●ke_v the_o application_n of_o christ_n satisfaction_n forthcoming_a to_o they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o other_o in_o exact_v that_o satisfaction_n from_o he_o as_o many_o as_o be_v now_o before_o the_o throne_n be_v joyful_a witness_n and_o glorious_a monument_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o this_o part_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o indeed_o there_o be_v no_o more_o legality_n to_o speak_v so_o in_o the_o impute_n of_o our_o sin_n to_o christ_n then_o there_o be_v legality_n in_o impute_v his_o righteousness_n to_o we_o in_o give_v we_o absolution_n and_o declare_v we_o righteous_a through_o he_o for_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o justice_n to_o have_v any_o claim_n against_o christ_n but_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n wherein_o christ_n undertake_v the_o debt_n and_o there_o be_v no_o other_o ground_n for_o make_v his_o purchase_n forthcoming_a to_o the_o sinner_n that_o by_o ●aith_n lay_v hold_v on_o he_o it_o be_v the_o same_o bless_a design_n that_o carry_v on_o both_o part_n of_o the_o bargan_n and_o now_o put_v all_o these_o together_o may_v we_o not_o most_o confident_o say_v that_o there_o be_v notable_o good_a ground_n for_o quiet_v of_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o sinner_n that_o by_o faith_n betake_v himself_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o such_o a_o sinner_n may_v with_o well-grounded_n confidence_n hope_v for_o and_o certain_o expect_v pardon_n and_o absolution_n as_o if_o in_o some_o respect_n he_o have_v never_o sin_v we_o can_v now_o insist_v to_o speak_v to_o the_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n only_o from_o this_o we_o may_v clear_o see_v 1._o how_o much_o sinner_n be_v oblige_v to_o god_n and_o to_o the_o mediator_n jesus_n christ_n and_o how_o poor_a sorry_a and_o miserable_a a_o life_n and_o how_o comfortless_a and_o curse_a a_o death_n we_o shall_v have_v have_v if_o he_o have_v not_o lay_v down_o a_o way_n for_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n even_o this_o excellent_a and_o wonderful_a way_n by_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n and_o therefore_o defile_v and_o guilty_a sinner_n will_v endeavour_v to_o make_v this_o doctrine_n very_o dear_o welcome_a as_o paul_n do_v be_v 1_o tim._n 1._o v._n 15._o when_o in_o a_o transport_n of_o holy_a admiration_n he_o cry_v this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n that_o christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n o_o believer_n in_o christ_n prize_v his_o grace_n high_o and_o bless_v he_o hearty_o even_o with_o all_o that_o be_v within_o you_o that_o ever_o the_o thought_n of_o this_o way_n of_o relief_n for_o lose_a sinner_n be_v in_o his_o bless_a heart_n 2_o since_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o natural_o we_o all_o have_v evil_a conscience_n through_o the_o debt_n of_o sin_n and_o defilement_n of_o dead_a work_n and_o that_o through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n if_o we_o flee_v to_o it_o by_o faith_n and_o take_v hold_v of_o his_o satisfaction_n we_o may_v get_v our_o conscience_n purge_v and_o our_o debt_n as_o certain_o pay_v as_o any_o man_n debt_n be_v who_o have_v in_o his_o charter-chist_n the_o discharge_n of_o a_o sum_n he_o be_v once_o owe_v then_o let_v i_o beseech_v you_o for_o the_o lord_n sake_n to_o make_v this_o your_o great_a work_n to_o get_v the_o application_n of_o this_o blood_n make_v to_o your_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v it_o on_o good_a ground_n make_v sure_a that_o you_o have_v by_o faith_n make_v application_n of_o it_o that_o you_o may_v not_o live_v and_o die_v in_o a_o conjectural_a and_o guess_v uncertainty_n about_o it_o o_o how_o mighty_o momentuous_a and_o concern_v to_o you_o through_o all_o eternity_n be_v it_o to_o have_v your_o defile_a conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o that_o blood_n if_o it_o be_v of_o concernment_n to_o you_o to_o have_v access_n to_o lift_v up_o your_o head_n with_o joy_n and_o your_o face_n with_o boldness_n in_o that_o day_n when_o the_o heart_n of_o many_o shall_v fall_v they_o for_o fear_n of_o those_o thing_n come_v on_o they_o and_o their_o knee_n shall_v smite_v one_o against_o another_o when_o their_o face_n shall_v gather_v paleness_n and_o they_o shall_v weep_v and_o howl_v desperate_o without_o all_o hope_n then_o doubtless_o it_o be_v of_o your_o concernment_n of_o your_o incomparable_o great_a concernment_n to_o get_v your_o conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o this_o blood_n otherways_o be_v assure_v live_v as_o you_o will_v and_o die_v as_o you_o may_v this_o defile_a ill_a conscience_n will_v cleave_v to_o you_o as_o a_o girdle_n do_v to_o the_o loin_n of_o a_o man_n and_o it_o will_v yell_v and_o roar_v on_o you_o with_o unconceavable_a terror_n and_o torment_n it_o will_v then_o be_v know_v and_o acknowledge_v by_o many_o to_o their_o everlasting_a shame_n and_o loss_n and_o to_o their_o endless_a terror_n and_o torment_n that_o there_o be_v a_o great_o concern_v truth_n in_o this_o doctrine_n viz._n that_o the_o only_a way_n how_o to_o get_v a_o defile_a conscience_n purge_v from_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n be_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ._n a_o sermon_n on_o heb._n 10._o v_o 22._o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n the_o confident_a approach_n of_o sinner_n to_o god_n be_v the_o great_a design_n of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o they_o may_v bold_o though_o humble_o draw_v near_o unto_o and_o have_v communion_n with_o he_o be_v the_o great_a fruit_n of_o christ_n purchase_n the_o apostle_n discourse_v here_o to_o these_o hebrew_n of_o the_o excellent_a advantage_n which_o they_o have_v in_o and_o by_o jesus_n christ_n whereof_o he_o give_v a_o short_a summary_n and_o abridgement_n v_o 19_o 20_o 21._o draw_v thence_o a_o
pathetic_a exhortation_n by_o way_n of_o conclusion_n that_o believer_n will_v make_v use_n of_o and_o improve_v these_o advantage_n and_o privilege_n in_o a_o confident_a approach_n to_o god_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o say_v he_o v_o 22._o in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n but_o because_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o ready_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o believer_n their_o come_n to_o god_n he_o cast_v in_o two_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o their_o come_n for_o remove_v these_o obstruction_n and_o to_o let_v we_o see_v that_o though_o he_o allow_v of_o the_o well_o ground_a confidence_n of_o faith_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o allow_v of_o carnal_a presumption_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n the_o 1._o thing_n that_o stand_v in_o their_o way_n be_v carnalness_n and_o deceit_n of_o heart_n and_o the_o qualification_n which_o he_o require_v for_o remove_v of_o it_o be_v in_o these_o word_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o a_o simple_o sinless_a heart_n but_o of_o a_o sincere_a honest_a and_o upright_a heart_n a_o clean_a heart_n loathe_v and_o work_v out_o the_o remainder_n of_o pollution_n and_o impurity_n for_o it_o be_v oppose_v to_o a_o unclean_a deceitful_a and_o hypocritical_a heart_n otherways_o the_o next_o word_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o wash_v will_v not_o be_v add_v but_o because_o 2_o believer_n win_v not_o in_o this_o life_n to_o that_o perfection_n in_o purity_n and_o sincerity_n but_o still_o they_o be_v conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o a_o remainder_n of_o deceit_n impurity_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o be_v and_o abide_v in_o they_o so_o that_o if_o they_o have_v no_o more_o but_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o own_o purity_n and_o sincerity_n to_o look_v to_o it_o will_v be_v but_o as_o one_o leg_n to_o walk_v upon_o in_o their_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n they_o may_v therefore_o object_v alace_o we_o have_v but_o little_a if_o any_o thing_n of_o a_o pure_a and_o sincere_a heart_n he_o answer_v this_o by_o add_v the_o second_o qualification_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n which_o be_v as_o he_o have_v say_v wherein_o soever_o you_o be_v unclean_a and_o defile_v and_o whatever_o be_v your_o impurity_n deceit_n or_o hypocrisy_n come_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o you_o may_v be_v sprinkle_v and_o washe●_n thereby_o and_o then_o come_v forward_o and_o draw_v near_o to_o go●_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o word_n he_o will_v have_v they_o come_v and_o come_v in_o sincerity_n and_o whatever_o lament_v over_o and_o loathe_a deceit_n and_o hypocrisy_n or_o uncleanness_n they_o find_v in_o themselves_o he_o will_v not_o have_v that_o keep_v they_o back_o because_o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o purge_v away_o both_o the_o guilt_n and_o filth_n of_o sin_n and_o to_o procure_v welcome_a to_o such_o as_o be_v sincere_a and_o single_a in_o purify_n their_o heart_n and_o way_n though_o they_o be_v not_o perfect_o pure_a but_o many_o degree_n remove_v from_o it_o and_o because_o thereof_o be_v under_o many_o quarrel_n from_o god_n and_o challenge_v from_o their_o own_o conscience_n he_o will_v have_v such_o make_v use_n of_o that_o blood_n for_o remove_v all_o quarrel_n and_o so_o to_o come_v forward_o this_o phrase_n of_o have_v the_o conscience_n sprinkle_v be_v a_o allusion_n to_o that_o which_o we_o have_v exod._n 12._o v_o 7._o and_o 13._o where_o the_o lord_n be_v to_o smite_v all_o the_o first-born_a of_o egypt_n to_o prevent_v the_o fall_n of_o the_o stroke_n and_o plague_n on_o the_o israelite_n he_o appoint_v they_o to_o kill_v a_o lamb_n and_o to_o sprinkle_v the_o lintel_n and_o door_n post_n of_o their_o house_n with_o the_o blood_n thereof_o that_o when_o the_o destroy_a angel_n pass_v through_o to_o smite_v the_o first-born_a of_o the_o egyptian_n he_o may_v pass_v over_o their_o house_n that_o be_v so_o sprinkle_v and_o the_o force_n of_o the_o allusion_n be_v this_o man_n conscience_n in_o a_o natural_a estate_n be_v like_o that_o destroy_a angel_n and_o as_o israel_n be-sprinkled_n the_o door_n post_v of_o their_o house_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o paschal_n lamb_n so_o he_o will_v have_v they_o to_o be-sprinkle_a their_o heart_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n as_o chap._n 9_o 14._o and_o 12._o v_o 24._o and_o then_o their_o conscience_n will_v not_o smite_v they_o to_o their_o hurt_n but_o they_o shall_v be_v pass_v over_o as_o the_o israelit_n be_v pass_v over_o by_o the_o destroy_a angel_n in_o the_o word_n then_o these_o two_o be_v clear_a 1._o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o person_n un-reconciled_n to_o god_n be_v a_o mighty_a fierce_a and_o terrible_a pursuer_fw-mi ready_a to_o seize_v on_o he_o as_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n do_v on_o the_o manslayer_n or_o as_o the_o destroy_a angel_n do_v on_o the_o egyptian_n and_o o_o but_o it_o be_v a_o dreadful_a thing_n to_o be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n wrath_n and_o to_o the_o challenge_n accusation_n throw_n and_o pang_n of_o a_o conscience_n that_o have_v just_a ground_n of_o a_o quarrel_n against_o a_o man_n who_o have_v nothing_o wherewith_o to_o answer_v its_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n 2_o that_o the_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n be_v such_o that_o it_o be_v able_a to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n of_o such_o a_o man_n that_o flee_v to_o it_o and_o to_o fence_v and_o guard_v he_o against_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n and_o the_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n so_o that_o as_o it_o have_v no_o just_a ground_n to_o pursue_v so_o it_o be_v god_n deputy_n it_o can_v neither_o will_v pursue_v he_o as_o god_n enemy_n it_o have_v no_o warrant_n from_o he_o as_o its_o sovereign_a to_o do_v so_o but_o as_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o house_n of_o the_o israelit_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o passove_a lamb_n preserve_v they_o from_o be_v plague_v or_o hurt_v by_o the_o destroy_a angel_n so_o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o purge_v and_o pacify_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o person_n that_o in_o good_a earnest_n have_v believe_v recourse_n to_o it_o to_o preserve_v he_o from_o the_o stroke_n of_o god_n justice_n and_o wrath_n and_o from_o the_o pursuit_n and_o accusation_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n i_o say_v when_o it_o be_v have_v recourse_n to_o actual_o apply_v and_o make_v use_v of_o by_o faith_n we_o clear_v and_o confirm_v these_o two_o doctrine_n or_o two_o branch_n of_o the_o same_o doctrine_n the_o other_o day_n and_o now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o use_v of_o they_o which_o be_v fourfold_a 1._o for_o information_n and_o direction_n 2_o for_o the_o commendation_n of_o the_o bargan_n of_o free_a grace_n 3_o for_o the_o consolation_n of_o believer_n in_o christ._n and_o 4_o for_o advertisement_n and_o warning_n to_o other_o for_o the_o first_o use_v you_o may_v see_v here_o a_o main_a lesson_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o from_o this_o you_o may_v hear_v glad_a and_o joyful_a tiding_n to_o a_o toss_a and_o trouble_a sinner_n who_o conscience_n be_v pursue_v he_o like_o a_o arm_a man_n nay_o the_o conscience_n be_v more_o terrible_a when_o awake_v than_o any_o the_o great_a army_n of_o man_n but_o behold_v here_o there_o be_v a_o way_n to_o win_v to_o peace_n under_o these_o toss_n and_o trouble_n and_o to_o a_o calm_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o that_o terrible_a tempest_n and_o storm_n to_o a_o escape_n and_o deliverance_n from_o the_o hot_a pursuer_fw-mi and_o avenger_n of_o blood_n as_o it_o be_v a_o city_n of_o refuge_n to_o flee_v unto_o even_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o speak_v better_a thing_n than_o the_o blood_n of_o abel_n even_o that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o speak_v peace_n when_o it_o be_v apply_v by_o faith_n in_o prosecution_n of_o this_o use_n we_o shall_v a_o little_a clear_a th●se_a three_o 1._o what_o a_o sinner_n lie_v under_o the_o lash_n of_o his_o conscience_n come_v to_o this_o blood_n may_v expect_v 2_o how_o he_o may_v attain_v that_o which_o he_o may_v warrantable_o expect_v 3ly_a when_o he_o may_v and_o aught_o in_o a_o more_o especial_a manner_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o as_o to_o the_o first_o viz._n what_o a_o conscience-tossed_n and_o trouble_a sinner_n may_v expect_v by_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n god_n rich_a and_o liberal_a allowance_n on_o he_o be_v drawing_z ●ear_v to_o he_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n come_v to_o he_o with_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n as_o a_o father_n in_o all_o his_o worship-address_n and_o application_n the_o meaning_n be_v not_o that_o the_o sinner_n under_o a_o quarrel_n flee_v to_o this_o blood_n have_v no_o ground_n of_o humiliation_n
wait_v with_o great_a aggravation_n as_o in_o that_o ps._n david_n sin_n be_v aggravate_v mighty_o by_o he_o and_o yet_o he_o make_v application_n to_o christ_n over_o all_o that_o guilt_n and_o all_o these_o aggravation_n of_o his_o guilt_n 3_o when_o the_o believer_n have_v through_o his_o folly_n relapse_v in_o sin_n which_o be_v not_o speak_v to_o give_v a_o liberty_n to_o sin_n god_n forbid_v woe_n to_o they_o that_o make_v so_o curse_v a_o use_n of_o such_o bless_a doctrine_n but_o to_o the_o commendation_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o of_o the_o worth_n and_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n and_o for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o lose_a sinner_n that_o will_v fain_o be_v at_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o peace_n for_o as_o long_o as_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n have_v efficacy_n and_o worth_n and_o as_o far_o as_o the_o promise_n extend_v itself_o as_o long_o and_o as_o far_o may_v the_o believer_n reach_v his_o faith_n for_o come_v up_o to_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n although_o for_o his_o humiliation_n and_o keep_v humble_a he_o may_v possible_o never_o win_v at_o not_o recover_v his_o former_a confidence_n and_o boldness_n yet_o look_v to_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n and_o hope_n he_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o study_v to_o stretch_n his_o faith_n to_o the_o attain_n of_o it_o 4_o he_o may_v and_o shall_v thus_o endeavour_v confident_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n when_o challenge_n be_v quick_a and_o very_a sharp_a yea_o when_o the_o challenge_n of_o conscience_n be_v sharp_a and_o most_o pierce_v though_o challenge_n be_v as_o so_o many_o troop_n of_o horse_n rush_v in_o on_o he_o and_o the_o conscience_n be_v like_o a_o lion_n rampant_a stand_v with_o his_o claw_n ready_a to_o to_o tear_v he_o may_v and_o shall_v humble_o take_v with_o guilt_n step_v to_o confident_o and_o make_v application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o indeed_o this_o be_v the_o very_a time_n when_o in_o a_o special_a manner_n he_o shall_v do_v it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o manslayer_n when_o he_o be_v most_o hot_o pursue_v by_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n that_o be_v the_o very_a time_n when_o he_o be_v call_v to_o flee_v and_o with_o great_a speed_n to_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n and_o the_o allusion_n be_v make_v to_o this_o purpose_n heb._n 6._o 18._o that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n say_v the_o apostle_n wherein_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o god_n to_o lie_v we_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n who_o be_v flee_v for_o refuge_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o the_o hope_n set_v before_o we_o when_o may_v they_o have_v consolation_n and_o strong_a consolation_n even_o when_o they_o be_v flee_v with_o the_o great_a haste_n to_o the_o clay_n of_o refuge_n it_o be_v then_o that_o the_o gate_n of_o the_o city_n be_v cast_v wide_a open_v to_o they_o when_o be_v it_o that_o david_n make_v his_o most_o earnest_a and_o humbly-confident_a address_n to_o god_n for_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n even_o when_o bloodguiltiness_n be_v stare_v he_o in_o the_o face_n and_o when_o his_o very_a bone_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n break_v and_o when_o to_o his_o own_o sense_n his_o grace_n be_v very_o much_o if_o not_o altogether_o go_v and_o when_o he_o have_v as_o be_v be_v forefault_v his_o right_n to_o consolation_n yet_o even_o then_o he_o come_v forward_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n humble_o maintain_v his_o interest_n in_o he_o and_o plead_v for_o former_a manifestation_n upon_o the_o ground_n of_o grace●_n 5_o the_o believer_n may_v and_o aught_o thus_o to_o make_v humbly-confident_a application_n to_o god_n throw_v christ_n when_o he_o find_v to_o the_o great_a grief_n of_o his_o soul_n a_o exceed_a in-disposition_n to_o duty_n when_o his_o pray_n repent_v hear_v etc._n etc._n go_v not_o with_o he_o as_o he_o will_v fain_o have_v they_o if_o there_o be_v a_o real_a flee_v for_o refuge_n to_o the_o hope_v set_v before_o he_o he_o may_v and_o shall_v even_o in_o that_o case_n step_v forward_o and_o draw_v near_o with_o humble_a boldness_n hence_o david_n psal._n 51._o pray_v not_o only_o for_o consolation_n but_o for_o the_o lively_a exercise_n of_o grace_n while_o he_o say_v to_o god_n create_v in_o i_o a_o clean_a heart_n renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n within_o i_o and_o uphold_v i_o with_o thy_o free_a spirit_n the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o exercise_v of_o repentance_n be_v real_a and_o serious_a the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n be_v then_o sure_o native_a and_o will_v ready_o look_v to_o jesus_n go_v over_o all_o that_o come_v in_o the_o way_n of_o it_o in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v then_o when_o the_o humble_a believer_n may_v draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n even_o when_o he_o have_v the_o real_a sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o danger_n and_o flee_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n for_o refuge_n he_o be_v then_o warrant_v to_o run_v to_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n and_o may_v confident_o go_v on_o in_o his_o errand_n viz._n to_o get_v pardon_n of_o sin_n renew_v consolation_n restore_v and_o his_o spiritual_a frame_n right_v it_o be_v no_o doubt_n a_o foolish_a conceit_n and_o a_o prejudicial_a mistake_n for_o trouble_a sinner_n first_o to_o seek_v after_o peace_n and_o then_o to_o make_v application_n to_o christ_n or_o to_o think_v that_o first_o they_o must_v have_v all_o the_o requisit_n of_o a_o good_a spiritual_a frame_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o lively_a exercise_n before_o they_o adventure_v to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o confidence_n i_o grant_v these_o be_v very_o desirable_a and_o the_o soul_n desire_v after_o they_o very_o commendable_a yet_o if_o the_o believer_n resolve_v never_o to_o draw_v thus_o near_o till_o he_o be_v as_o he_o will_v be_v when_o shall_v he_o do_v it_o what_o if_o david_n have_v stand_v and_o stick_v at_o that_o psal._n 51_o he_o may_v have_v be_v keep_v a-back_a and_o so_o be_v unwashen_v all_o his_o day_n but_o know_v the_o way_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o his_o gracious_a covenant_n make_v with_o his_o people_n he_o step_v humble_o yet_o confident_o forward_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n out_o over_o the_o sense_n of_o guiltiness_n and_o all_o the_o aggravation_n of_o it_o over_o relapse_v in_o sin_n over_o in_o disposition_n and_o over_o many_o sharp_a challenge_n all_o take_v with_o and_o lament_v over_o and_o make_v all_o these_o together_o as_o so_o many_o earand_n to_o god_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o commend_v the_o bargan_n of_o freegrace_n and_o to_o hold_v out_o the_o excellency_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v which_o may_v also_o mighty_o encourage_v the_o believer_n to_o step_v forward_o in_o prosecute_n whereof_o i_o shall_v 1._o speak_v a_o word_n to_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o then_o 2_o a_o word_n to_o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o as_o to_o we_o for_o the_o first_o to_o wit_n the_o excellency_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o it_o may_v be_v see_v in_o these_o four_o 1._o in_o the_o noble_a and_o notable_a effect_n that_o it_o produce_v or_o that_o come_v by_o it_o even_o all_o the_o great_a thing_n contain_v in_o the_o promise_v touch_v on_o before_o such_o as_o pardon_v of_o sin_n grace_v to_o subdue_v it_o friendship_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n fellowship_n with_o he_o conformity_n to_o he_o the_o hope_n of_o heaven_n and_o glory_n the_o sweet_a serenity_n tranquillity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v as_o a_o hide_v place_n from_o the_o wind_n and_o rain_n and_o a_o covert_n from_o the_o florm_n yea_o even_o as_o the_o shadow_n of_o a_o great_a rock_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o weary_a land_n when_o the_o soul_n sore_o beat_v with_o the_o storm_n of_o challenge_n and_o of_o the_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n come_v under_o the_o shadow_n and_o shelter_v of_o this_o it_o present_o find_v ease_n and_o repose_v what_o shall_v i_o say_v what_o can_v i_o say_v word_n here_o may_v be_v swallow_v up_o from_o this_o proceed_v all_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n possess_v and_o expect_v in_o hand_n and_o in_o hope_n 2_o it_o be_v excellency_n and_o efficacy_n appear_v in_o this_o that_o it_o have_v procure_v these_o thing_n to_o sinner_n to_o they_o that_o have_v a_o unclean_a and_o pollute_a conscience_n for_o who_o be_v it_o i_o pray_v that_o may_v thus_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o never_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n but_o such_o as_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n flee_v unto_o this_o blood_n and_o get_v it_o sprinkle_v therewith_o it_o be_v these_o who_o have_v their_o conscience_n defile_v with_o dead_a work_n and_o come_v to_o it_o and_o get_v they_o purge_v from_o these_o dead_a work_n 3_o the_o
this_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n but_o some_o tender_a and_o exercise_v soul_n will_v belike_o here_o object_n and_o say_v be_v it_o not_o presumption_n for_o i_o to_o comfort_v myself_o under_o challenge_n for_o sin_n i_o answer_v no_o thou_o take_v with_o the_o challenge_n and_o be_v humble_v for_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v thyself_o to_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o pardon_n and_o purge_n because_o the_o apostle_n command_v thou_o to_o comfort_v thyself_o and_o sure_o he_o command_v none_o to_o presume_v to_o who_o i_o pray_v be_v it_o that_o he_o speak_v here_o be_v it_o not_o to_o they_o that_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n at_o least_o in_o part_n and_o what_o say_v he_o to_o they_o let_v we_o draw_v near_o in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o on_o what_o ground_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n when_o the_o conscience_n through_o guilt_n challenge_v we_o be_v call_v to_o flee_v to_o this_o blood_n and_o have_v sprinkle_v it_o there_o with_o we_o have_v warrant_n to_o draw_v near_o and_o it_o be_v not_o presumption_n to_o do_v so_o nay_o rest_a on_o christ_n and_o comfort_v ourselves_o in_o he_o under_o challenge_n take_v with_o argue_v strong_a faith_n wherein_o he_o have_v great_a complacency_n and_o whereby_o he_o be_v much_o glorify_v for_o presumption_n will_v never_o stand_v before_o a_o evil_a conscience_n nor_o credit_n christ_n when_o conscience_n sharp_o challenge_v so_o that_o if_o you_o come_v by_o this_o new_a and_o live_a way_n it_o be_v not_o presumption_n to_o lean_a to_o christ_n but_o that_o be_v presumption_n to_o lean_a to_o any_o other_o thing_n nay_o the_o more_o humble_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n there_o be_v under_o challenge_n it_o argue_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v the_o more_o and_o the_o strong_a faith_n because_o it_o be_v the_o more_o sickerly_o found_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n and_o on_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o it_o give_v god_n most_o glory_n when_o the_o difficulty_n be_v great_a it_o be_v no_o great_a practic_a to_o calm_v the_o conscience_n when_o there_o be_v no_o storm_n but_o then_o indeed_o it_o be_v so_o when_o there_o be_v many_o wave_n and_o billow_n of_o challenge_n and_o discouragement_n rise_v and_o swell_v high_a in_o the_o way_n to_o go_v over_o all_o these_o and_o to_o grip_v hard_o to_o this_o rope_n cast_v out_o by_o he_o and_o confident_o though_o humble_o and_o in_o fear_n to_o make_v use_n of_o this_o remedy_n which_o he_o have_v gracious_o propose_v it_o will_v never_o be_v account_v presumption_n by_o he_o for_o serious_a soul_n to_o take_v to_o themselves_o god_n allowance_n on_o they_o which_o be_v strong_a consolation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v hot_o pursue_v and_o fly_v to_o this_o city_n of_o refuge_n but_o it_o may_v very_o ready_o be_v account_v presumption_n to_o cast_v at_o his_o allowance_n he_o know_v well_o who_o have_v the_o tongue_n of_o the_o learned_a 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cry_v wash_v i_o cleanse_v i_o purge_v i_o wash_v i_o thorough_o from_o my_o iniquity_n it_o will_v be_v no_o excuse_n i_o assure_v you_o it_o will_v be_v no_o plea_n nor_o apology_n for_o you_o in_o the_o great_a day_n to_o allege_v that_o you_o can_v not_o do_v it_o since_o he_o offer_v himself_o as_o a_o fountain_n to_o wash_v at_o and_o to_o wash_v you_o all_o in_o particular_a that_o hear_v i_o this_o day_n and_o be_v do_v so_o very_o serious_o just_a now_o if_o you_o will_v employ_v and_o put_v he_o to_o it_o consider_v that_o sad_a word_n jer._n 13._o 27._o wo_n unthee_o o_o jerusalem_n will_v thou_o not_o be_v make_v clean_o when_o shall_v it_o once_o be_v it_o be_v not_o can_v thou_o not_o make_v thyself_o clean_o but_o will_v thou_o not_o be_v make_v clean_o to_o wit_n by_o i_o who_o be_o able_a to_o do_v it_o and_o offer_v to_o do_v it_o free_o if_o thou_o be_v but_o honest_o willing_a this_o will_v be_v the_o loud_a and_o terrible_a voice_n wherewith_o god_n and_o the_o 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