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conscience_n good_a love_n unfeigned_a 1,422 5 11.0683 5 true
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A09443 A godly and learned exposition or commentarie vpon the three first chapters of the Reuelation. Preached in Cambridge by that reuerend and judicious diuine, maister William Perkins, Ann. Dom. 1595. First published for the benefit of Gods Church, by Robert Hill, Bachelor of Diuinitie; Lectures upon the three first chapters of the Revelation Perkins, William, 1558-1602. 1606 (1606) STC 19732; ESTC S114701 362,972 238

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here_o see_v the_o proper_a ●nd_n of_o all_o reproof_n and_o correction_n namely_o the_o reformation_n and_o amendment_n of_o man_n fault_n &_o misdemeanour_n whatsoever_o that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v more_o careful_a of_o their_o way_n and_o more_o zealous_a in_o good_a duty_n then_o ever_o they_o be_v whensoever_o therefore_o we_o be_v reprove_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o when_o the_o lord_n shall_v visit_v we_o in_o body_n mind_n or_o good_n by_o any_o kind_n of_o cross_n we_o must_v remember_v to_o take_v occasion_n thereby_o to_o repent_v and_o amend_v know_v that_o by_o all_o these_o as_o by_o so_o many_o sermon_n the_o lord_n call_v we_o to_o amendment_n now_o come_v to_o the_o remedy_n of_o their_o luke-warmnesse_n be_v zealous_a that_o we_o may_v understand_v this_o commandment_n we_o be_v to_o handle_v some_o point_n touch_v zeal_n first_o what_o be_v zeal_n zeal_n be_v a_o burn_a affection_n in_o regard_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n this_o zeal_n be_v compound_v of_o two_o affection_n of_o love_n and_o anger_n or_o indignation_n so_o that_o in_o this_o commandment_n be_v two_o duty_n enjoin_v unto_o this_o church_n first_o that_o they_o shall_v love_v christ_n and_o his_o religion_n above_o all_o thing_n second_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v grieve_v especial_o for_o this_o that_o christ_n be_v dishonour_v his_o worship_n profane_v and_o his_o doctrine_n not_o embrace_v but_o instead_o thereof_o false_a worship_n and_o false_a doctrine_n entertain_v when_o both_o these_o concur_v than_o zeal_n be_v in_o the_o heart_n a_o most_o notable_a example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o christ_n psalm_n 69.9_o where_o the_o prophet_n david_n in_o his_o person_n say_v the_o zeal_n of_o god_n house_n have_v eat_v he_o up_o whereby_o thus_o much_o be_v signify_v that_o the_o heat_n of_o his_o love_n for_o the_o maintain_n of_o his_o father_n glory_n have_v even_o consume_v he_o and_o that_o his_o indignation_n be_v so_o great_a because_o his_o father_n name_n be_v dishonour_v and_o his_o worship_n profane_v that_o it_o do_v even_o care_v he_o up_o this_o we_o shall_v see_v to_o be_v true_a in_o christ_n if_o we_o read_v the_o history_n of_o his_o life_n john_n 2.17_o yea_o he_o profess_v of_o himself_o that_o it_o be_v meat_n and_o drink_v unto_o he_o to_o do_v his_o father_n will_n joh._n 4.34_o that_o thing_n he_o prefer_v before_o his_o own_o life_n or_o safety_n nay_o for_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o he_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v the_o pang_n of_o hell_n the_o like_a zeal_n be_v in_o elias_n when_o all_o israel_n be_v fall_v to_o idolatry_n his_o heart_n be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n 1._o king_n 19.14_o ii_o point_n the_o kind_n of_o zeal_n zeal_n be_v either_o good_a or_o bad_a in_o good_a zeal_n be_v these_o thing_n require_v i._o true_a faith_n as_o the_o root_n thereof_o 1._o tim._n 1._o vers_fw-la 5._o the_o end_n of_o the_o commandment_n be_v love_n 〈◊〉_d of_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o of_o faith_n unfeigned_a now_o one_o apart_o of_o zeal_n be_v love_n and_o therefore_o 〈…〉_z procee_v from_o true_a faith_n so_o must_v true_a zeal_n 〈◊〉_d and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o faith_n be_v rather_o rashness_n and_o fierceness_n of_o nature_n than_o true_a zeal_n ii_o repentance_n 2._o cor._n 7.11_o there_o be_v seven_o 〈◊〉_d of_o repentance_n recite_v whereof_o zeal_n be_v one_o that_o be_v good_a zeal_n even_o a_o burn_a love_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o a_o godly_a indignation_n when_o false_a religion_n be_v embrace_v there_o may_v be_v zeal_n in_o a_o man_n that_o have_v no_o repentance_n as_o be_v in_o jehu_n 2._o king_n 10.16_o come_v with_o i_o say_v he_o and_o see_v the_o zeal_n that_o i_o have_v for_o the_o lord_n yet_o he_o want_v repentance_n for_o vers._n 29.31_o it_o be_v say_v jehu_n regard_v not_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o israel_n with_o all_o his_o heart_n for_o he_o depart_v not_o from_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la which_o make_v israel_n to_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o have_v not_o in_o he_o the_o true_a zeal_n that_o be_v here_o command_v iii_o zeal_n must_v come_v from_o knowledge_n for_o without_o knowledge_n it_o be_v but_o rashness_n and_o bold-hardinesse_n such_o as_o the_o jew_n have_v rom._n 10.2_o who_o zeal_n be_v without_o knowledge_n and_o such_o as_o paul_n have_v before_o his_o conversion_n phil._n 3._o vers_fw-la 6._o in_o zeal_n he_o persecute_v god_n church_n knowledge_n therefore_o in_o god_n word_n must_v be_v the_o guide_n and_o conductor_n of_o our_o zeal_n iii_o point_n the_o fruit_n of_o zeal_n must_v be_v consider_v for_o the_o better_a discern_v of_o true_a zeal_n first_o true_a zeal_n constrain_v a_o man_n in_o every_o thing_n to_o seek_v to_o please_v god_n 5.13.14_o whether_o we_o be_v out_o of_o 〈◊〉_d wit_n we_o be_v it_o unto_o god_n or_o whether_o we_o be_v in_o our_o right_a mind_n we_o be_v it_o unto_o you_o for_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n constrain_v us._n so_o wheresoever_o this_o true_a zeal_n be_v in_o any_o measure_n it_o offer_v violence_n to_o the_o heart_n so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v but_o endeavour_n to_o do_v his_o duty_n for_o the_o love_n he_o bear_v unto_o christ._n elihu_n say_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v in_o his_o heart_n as_o new_a wine_n in_o a_o vessel_n which_o must_v needs_o vent_v out_o job._n 32.18.19_o second_o true_a zeal_n make_v a_o man_n endeavour_n to_o serve_v and_o please_v god_n with_o all_o his_o heart_n power_n and_o strength_n so_o good_a king_n josiah_n hear_v the_o word_n of_o the_o law_n read_v he_o turn_v not_o slacke_o or_o negligent_o but_o 23.25_o with_o all_o his_o heart_n and_o all_o his_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o his_o might_n according_a to_o all_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n so_o as_o like_v he_o be_v no_o king_n before_o neither_o after_o he_o arise_v there_o any_o like_o he_o psal._n 51_o david_n humble_v himself_o for_o his_o sin_n pray_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o with_o such_o marvelous_a zeal_n as_o no_o tongue_n can_v utter_v desire_v god_n to_o remember_v he_o according_a to_o the_o multitude_n of_o his_o mercy_n often_o repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n in_o diverse_a term_n that_o in_o some_o sort_n he_o may_v express_v the_o earnest_a desire_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o in_o give_v god_n thanks_n for_o his_o benefit_n he_o put_v all_o the_o strength_n of_o his_o heart_n thereto_o cry_v out_o my_o soul_n praise_n thou_o the_o lord_n and_o all_o that_o be_v within_o i_o psa._n 103.1_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v what_o a_o thing_n it_o be_v to_o be_v zealous_a whence_o true_a zeal_n arise_v and_o what_o it_o work_v in_o man_n heart_n use_n see_v we_o as_o have_v be_v show_v be_v taint_v with_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmnesse_n and_o coldness_n in_o religion_n let_v we_o here_o learn_v how_o to_o redress_v this_o vice_n we_o must_v become_v zealous_a have_v in_o our_o heart_n a_o fervent_a love_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o a_o vehement_a indignation_n when_o the_o same_o be_v disgrace_v and_o false_a worship_n take_v place_n let_v religion_n therefore_o take_v place_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o let_v we_o be_v fervent_a and_o show_n that_o same_o in_o our_o life_n by_o zealous_a obedience_n away_o with_o all_o slackness_n and_o lukewarmnesse_n it_o be_v better_a to_o be_v jews_n and_o turk_n and_o to_o hold_v no_o religion_n then_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a in_o the_o true_a profession_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o zeal_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o remedy_n be_v to_o repent_v or_o amend_v this_o they_o be_v also_o enjoin_v because_o zeal_n without_o repentance_n be_v nothing_o but_o rashness_n jehues_n zeal_n be_v no_o true_a zeal_n because_o he_o want_v repentance_n even_o then_o when_o he_o be_v zealous_a but_o wherefore_o be_v this_o church_n enjoin_v to_o repent_v namely_o for_o lukewarmness_n not_o for_o that_o she_o have_v commit_v any_o horrible_a sin_n but_o because_o she_o be_v slack_a in_o good_a duty_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o good_a lesson_n for_o the_o ignorant_a sort_n that_o challenge_n god_n mercy_n unto_o themselves_o because_o they_o be_v no_o notorious_a malefactor_n as_o murderer_n &_o adulterer_n they_o hate_v no_o man_n but_o do_v good_a unto_o all_o but_o here_o they_o be_v teach_v to_o reform_v this_o their_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n for_o repentance_n must_v be_v for_o want_n of_o good_a duty_n yea_o for_o slackness_n therein_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n soothe_v himself_o in_o his_o ignorance_n with_o a_o false_a persuasion_n that_o all_o be_v well_o if_o he_o live_v not_o in_o gross_a sin_n this_o be_v the_o enchantment_n of_o the_o devil_n whereby_o he_o rock_n many_o asleep_a in_o
show_v mercy_n exercise_n judgement_n keep_v court_n assize_n begin_v end_n and_o continue_v war_n according_a to_o his_o commandment_n and_o so_o in_o every_o thing_n the_o direction_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v their_o guide_n as_o it_o be_v to_o david_n thy_o law_n o_o lord_n have_v be_v my_o counselor_n psal._n 119.24_o four_o if_o christ_n be_v sovereign_a king_n than_o all_o earthly_a prince_n be_v bind_v to_o plant_v and_o establish_v in_o their_o kingdom_n the_o religion_n of_o christ_n else_o how_o can_v they_o show_v themselves_o his_o loyal_a subject_n many_o imagine_v that_o earthly_a prince_n may_v admit_v unto_o their_o subject_n any_o religion_n for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n but_o this_o be_v against_o the_o equity_n of_o god_n word_n in_o this_o place_n for_o wherein_o can_v earthly_a prince_n do_v homage_n unto_o christ_n if_o they_o maintain_v not_o his_o religion_n and_o their_o duty_n in_o this_o behalf_n be_v signify_v plain_o in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o marriage_n for_o when_o they_o that_o be_v bid_v do_v not_o come_v the_o king_n send_v forth_o his_o 2d_o servant_n which_o may_v be_v understand_v of_o christian_a magistrate_n to_o compel_v man_n to_o come_v to_o the_o marriage_n for_o that_o be_v the_o magistrate_n duty_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o true_a religion_n five_o see_v christ_n alone_o be_v prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o king_n on_o earth_n in_o their_o dominion_n be_v sovereign_a governor_n over_o all_o person_n and_o in_o all_o cause_n next_o under_o christ_n he_o be_v king_n of_o king_n absolute_o and_o they_o be_v under_o he_o alone_o and_o have_v no_o other_o head_n but_o he_o whereby_o we_o see_v the_o presumption_n and_o arrogancy_n of_o the_o pope_n and_o sea_n of_o rome_n in_o claim_v supremacy_n above_o all_o king_n and_o prince_n in_o the_o whole_a church_n upon_o earth_n this_o be_v a_o device_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o high_a treason_n against_o christ_n for_o hereby_o he_o be_v rob_v of_o this_o royal_a prerogative_n to_o be_v the_o only_a prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n last_o see_v christ_n be_v king_n of_o all_o king_n we_o must_v not_o be_v discourage_v when_o we_o be_v call_v to_o suffer_v any_o affliction_n for_o his_o truth_n let_v the_o tyrant_n of_o the_o earth_n rage_n and_o bend_v their_o force_n to_o hurt_v we_o yet_o we_o have_v a_o king_n above_o they_o all_o for_o who_o we_o suffer_v he_o be_v their_o king_n he_o can_v stay_v and_o bridle_v they_o and_o if_o he_o please_v confound_v and_o bruise_v they_o in_o piece_n they_o can_v do_v any_o thing_n but_o that_o which_o he_o permit_v for_o he_o rule_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o his_o enemy_n psal._n 110.2_o he_o can_v break_v they_o in_o piece_n like_o a_o potter_n vessel_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o office_n of_o christ._n the_o second_o part_n of_o christ_n description_n be_v by_o the_o execution_n of_o his_o office_n which_o consist_v in_o four_o work_n the_o first_o contain_v in_o these_o word_n unto_o he_o which_o love_v we_o the_o second_o in_o these_o which_o wash_v we_o in_o his_o blood_n the_o other_o two_o in_o the_o two_o verse_n which_o follow_v viz._n 6_o and_o 7._o for_o the_o first_o which_o love_v we_o that_o be_v john_n and_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n &_o by_o proportion_n all_o other_o church_n be_v part_n of_o the_o true_a church_n the_o love_n of_o christ_n have_v three_o degree_n the_o first_o be_v a_o general_a love_n whereby_o he_o love_v all_o his_o creature_n approve_v the_o same_o to_o be_v good_a as_o they_o be_v his_o by_o creation_n the_o second_o be_v the_o love_n of_o mankind_n in_o that_o he_o be_v content_a to_o become_v a_o redeemer_n for_o mankind_n after_o their_o fall_n and_o not_o ●or_a any_o other_o creature_n no_o not_o for_o the_o angel_n which_o fall_v as_o well_o as_o man_n who_o therefore_o remain_v without_o all_o hope_n of_o salvation_n the_o three_o and_o principal_a be_v that_o whereby_o he_o love_v his_o elect_a and_o choose_a child_n which_o be_v that_o special_a savour_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o they_o to_o life_n everlasting_a this_o three_o degree_n have_v two_o part_n first_o it_o be_v take_v for_o his_o purpose_n to_o love_v as_o when_o he_o say_v i_o have_v love_v jacob_n and_o hate_v esau_n rom._n 9.13_o second_o for_o the_o act_n of_o love_a which_o be_v the_o declaration_n of_o his_o purpose_n by_o spiritual_a benefit_n 1._o john_n 3.1_o behold_v what_o singular_a love_n god_n have_v show_v unto_o we_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n note_v the_o declaration_n of_o his_o love_n in_o the_o gift_n of_o adoption_n so_o in_o this_o verse_n by_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o church_n be_v mean_v the_o actual_a declaration_n of_o his_o special_a favour_n in_o accept_v they_o for_o his_o child_n and_o bestow_v many_o singular_a blessing_n upon_o they_o whereas_o s._n john_n place_v this_o in_o the_o first_o place_n of_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n that_o he_o love_v we_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o this_o special_a love_n be_v the_o very_a ground_n of_o man_n redemption_n which_o exclude_v all_o foresee_v faith_n and_o work_v from_o be_v motive_n of_o man_n election_n in_o god_n eternal_a council_n and_o so_o proportional_o all_o foresee_v sin_n from_o be_v motive_n in_o god_n of_o man_n reprobation_n it_o may_v be_v object_v the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o also_o of_o man_n respect_v a_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v good_a first_o the_o thing_n must_v be_v good_a and_o then_o it_o be_v love_v and_o so_o in_o man_n redemption_n god_n first_o foresee_v their_o goodness_n and_o therefore_o choose_v they_o ans._n there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o the_o love_n of_o the_o creature_n and_o of_o the_o creator_n the_o love_n of_o the_o creature_n follow_v the_o goodness_n of_o a_o thing_n because_o he_o see_v it_o be_v good_a therefore_o he_o love_v it_o but_o god_n the_o creator_n first_o love_v the_o creature_n before_o it_o be_v good_a and_o hence_o it_o come_v that_o it_o be_v good_a because_o he_o love_v it_o second_o whereas_o saint_n john_n and_o all_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n as_o other_o true_a church_n do_v believe_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o christ_n love_v they_o for_o that_o saint_n john_n take_v for_o grant_v this_o shall_v move_v all_o man_n to_o have_v this_o care_n to_o labour_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v root_v and_o ground_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n see_v he_o place_v that_o in_o the_o first_o place_n this_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v the_o ephesian_n root_v and_o ground_v and_o therefore_o pray_v that_o with_o all_o saint_n they_o may_v be_v able_a to_o comprehend_v what_o be_v the_o breadth_n and_o length_n depth_n and_o height_n thereof_o ephes._n 2._o vers_fw-la 17_o 18_o 19_o this_o we_o do_v when_o we_o be_v assure_v in_o heart_n and_o conscience_n by_o the_o work_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o he_o love_v we_o in_o christ._n so_o that_o he_o which_o deny_v unto_o we_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n take_v away_o the_o very_a ground_n of_o our_o salvation_n now_o that_o we_o may_v have_v this_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n we_o must_v in_o all_o good_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o our_o heart_n keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o then_o will_v god_n draw_v near_o to_o us._n if_o any_o man_n love_v i_o say_v christ_n he_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o then_o my_o father_n will_v love_v he_o and_o we_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o dwell_v with_o he_o john_n 14.23_o mean_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o shall_v shed_v this_o love_n into_o our_o heart_n rom._n 5._o vers_fw-la 5._o cause_v we_o to_o increase_v in_o the_o feel_n thereof_o as_o we_o grow_v in_o faith_n and_o obedience_n towards_o he_o and_o have_v wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n here_o be_v the_o second_o benefit_n and_o action_n of_o christ_n to_o his_o church_n where_o first_o of_o all_o the_o very_a phrase_n have_v wash_v we_o do_v import_v that_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n be_v as_o filthy_a spot_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o that_o himself_o and_o this_o church_n of_o god_n be_v touch_v with_o a_o serious_a consideration_n of_o their_o vileness_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o sin_n for_o wash_v presuppose_v former_a filthiness_n and_o pollution_n thus_o do_v david_n most_o sensible_o feel_v his_o own_o filthiness_n and_o see_v his_o miserable_a estate_n when_o he_o desire_v the_o lord_n to_o ●_o wash_v he_o thorough_o confess_v thereby_o that_o his_o soul_n and_o body_n be_v so_o foul_o stain_v and_o
be_v dissolve_v and_o soul_n and_o body_n separate_v then_o must_v the_o child_n of_o god_n remember_v that_o he_o be_v a_o king_n in_o christ_n and_o this_o will_v stay_v his_o heart_n against_o the_o fear_n of_o death_n for_o herein_o shall_v he_o see_v that_o by_o death_n as_o through_o a_o straight_a passage_n he_o shall_v enter_v into_o the_o full_a possession_n of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o thus_o much_o in_o that_o we_o be_v king_n from_o the_o second_o dignity_n of_o believer_n which_o be_v to_o be_v priest_n unto_o god_n we_o be_v likewise_o teach_v sundry_a duty_n first_o to_o teach_v and_o instruct_v one_o another_o it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o priest_n under_o the_o law_n to_o teach_v the_o people_n the_o will_n of_o god_n the_o priest_n lip_n shall_v preserve_v knowledge_n malach._n 2._o vers_fw-la 7._o and_o now_o under_o the_o gospel_n not_o only_o the_o minister_n but_o every_o true_a believer_n be_v a_o spiritual_a priest_n and_o therefore_o aught_o to_o teach_v and_o admonish_v one_o another_o coloss_n 3.16_o when_o the_o lord_n say_v touch_v no●_n my_o anoint_a and_o do_v my_o prophet_n no_o harm_n psa._n 105.15_o he_o call_v all_o his_o faithful_a by_o the_o name_n of_o prophet_n because_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n and_o be_v able_a also_o in_o due_a time_n and_o upon_o just_a occasion_n to_o teach_v the_o same_o to_o other_o that_o so_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n may_v flourish_v and_o as_o this_o duty_n belong_v to_o all_o man_n so_o especial_o to_o governor_n as_o parent_n and_o master_n they_o must_v show_v themselves_o priest_n to_o their_o charge_n abraham_n do_v it_o genes_n 18._o david_n do_v it_o prou._n 4._o and_o bathshebath_n do_v it_o prou._n 31._o and_o all_o must_v do_v it_o that_o desire_v a_o holy_a generation_n to_o succeed_v after_o they_o we_o teach_v they_o other_o thing_n why_o not_o religion_n second_o see_v we_o be_v priest_n we_o must_v pray_v unfeigned_o not_o only_o for_o ourselves_o but_o ●●_o for_o all_o man_n especial_o the_o member_n of_o christ._n the_o priest_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n must_v pray_v and_o make_v request_n not_o only_o for_o himself_o but_o for_o the_o people_n also_o and_o herein_o stand_v the_o praise_n of_o a_o christian_a to_o pray_v for_o his_o brethren_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o paul_n say_v pray_v for_o all_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o i_o ephes._n 6.18_o moses_n be_v high_o commend_v for_o this_o duty_n especial_o when_o he_o pray_v for_o the_o israelite_n and_o stand_v before_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o gap_n to_o turn_v away_o his_o wrath_n exod._n 32._o elias_n for_o his_o power_n in_o prayer_n and_o pprophecy_n be_v call_v the_o chariot_n and_o horsem●n_n of_o israel_n 2._o king_n ●_o 12_o and_o this_o be_v record_v for_o the_o praise_n of_o hezechi●_n that_o when_o the_o people_n be_v unprepared_a at_o the_o eat_n of_o the_o passeover_n he_o pray_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o mercy_n and_o be_v h●ard_v 2._o chron._n 30.18_o and_o so_o when_o we_o find_v any_o commend_v in_o scripture_n for_o his_o gift_n in_o prayer_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o for_o that_o he_o pray_v diligent_o for_o himself_o as_o for_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n three_o be_v priest_n we_o must_v offer_v spiritual_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n that_o be_v dedicate_v ourselves_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o we_o our_o wit_n learning_n knowledge_n and_o every_o gift_n of_o body_n or_o mind_n to_o god_n service_n that_o we_o may_v do_v all_o this_o to_o his_o glory_n we_o must_v look_v that_o every_o thing_n we_o take_v in_o hand_n have_v his_o beginning_n from_o a_o pure_a heart_n a_o good_a conscience_n and_o faith_n unfeigned_a and_o be_v direct_v to_o a_o good_a end_n to_o god_n glory_n principal_o and_o the_o good_a of_o other_o who_o it_o may_v concern_v four_o we_o must_v be_v full_a of_o blessing_n the_o priest_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n number_n 6●_n use_v to_o bless_v the_o people_n so_o must_v we_o if_o we_o be_v christian_n because_o we_o be_v spiritual_a priest_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o all_o curse_a speak_v of_o slander_v and_o backbiting_a of_o swear_v and_o forswear_v and_o give_v ourselves_o to_o bless_a and_o gracious_a speech_n to_o all_o man_n and_o of_o all_o man_n friend_n or_o foe_n rom._n 12.14_o five_o we_o must_v seek_v to_o have_v god_n for_o our_o portion_n the_o levit_n have_v no_o portion_n in_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n but_o the_o tenth●_n only_o 119.57_o the_o lord_n be_v their_o portion_n so_o we_o be_v priest_n to_o god_n must_v be_v content_a with_o any_o estate_n in_o this_o world_n for_o god_n be_v our_o portion_n we_o must_v not_o seek_v too_o much_o after_o any_o inheritance_n on_o earth_n for_o than_o we_o carry_v not_o ourselves_o like_o priest_n unto_o god_n the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n must_v be_v the_o thing_n we_o long_v for_o and_o therein_o must_v we_o rejoice_v to_o he_o be_v glory_n and_o dominion_n for_o evermore_o amen_n these_o word_n be_v a_o thanksgiving_a to_o god_n for_o the_o former_a benefit_n of_o christ_n bestow_v on_o his_o church_n which_o s._n john_n put_v in_o before_o he_o have_v end_v his_o record_n of_o the_o gracious_a work_n of_o christ_n for_o his_o church_n as_o it_o be_v interrupt_v himself_o for_o the_o great_a desire_n he_o have_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n whereby_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n benefit_n towards_o we_o special_o such_o as_o concern_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n shall_v stir_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o give_v continual_a praise_n and_o glory_n to_o god_n this_o be_v david_n affection_n when_o he_o feel_v in_o his_o soul_n the_o pardon_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o break_v out_o into_o this_o thanksgiving_n my_o soul_n praise_n thou_o the_o lord_n and_o forget_v not_o all_o his_o benefit_n psalm_n 103._o ●_o and_o so_o do_v paul_n after_o the_o bless_a memory_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o his_o vocation_n 1._o tim._n 1.17_o second_o in_o this_o example_n of_o john_n we_o may_v learn_v what_o be_v the_o true_a form_n of_o give_v thanks_n to_o god_n namely_o to_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o all_o power_n glory_n and_o absolute_a dominion_n for_o evermore_o but_o alas_o it_o be_v too_o too_o manifest_a that_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n will_v not_o do_v this_o but_o take_v from_o god_n his_o due_a bestow_v it_o on_o creature_n yea_o on_o our_o own_o self_n it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o grace_n to_o know_v what_o be_v due_a to_o god_n and_o to_o ascribe_v the_o same_o unto_o he_o and_o therefore_o we_o be_v charge_v to_o give_v unto_o the_o lord_n glory_n and_o power_n which_o in_o the_o next_o word_n he_o call_v the_o glory_n of_o his_o name_n psal._n 96.7_o 8._o so_o christ_n he_o teach_v we_o to_o ascribe_v all_o power_n glory_n might_n and_o dominion_n to_o god_n when_o we_o say_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n for_o thou_o be_v the_o kingdom_n the_o power_n and_o glory_n that_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v thou_o all_o power_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n be_v thou_o and_o therefore_o all_o glory_n be_v thou_o and_o from_o our_o heart_n we_o do_v ascribe_v the_o same_o unto_o thou_o last_o s._n john_n add_v amen_o that_o be_v so_o be_v it_o let_v all_o glory_n and_o dominion_n be_v give_v to_o christ_n which_o be_v the_o same_o he_o say_v before_o whereby_o he_o do_v testify_v his_o fervent_a affection_n and_o strength_n of_o desire_n after_o the_o glory_n of_o christ_n else_o he_o will_v not_o have_v double_v his_o thanksgiving_n and_o so_o shall_v it_o be_v with_o we_o we_o shall_v not_o freeze_v in_o our_o thanksgiving_n for_o god_n benefit_n but_o labour_v to_o have_v our_o heart_n &_o tongue_n to_o double_a the_o same_o that_o thereby_o we_o may_v testify_v our_o fervent_a and_o earnest_a desire_n after_o his_o praise_n and_o glory_n verse_n 7._o behold_v he_o come_v with_o cloud_n and_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o yea_o even_o they_o which_o pierce_v he_o through_o and_o all_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v wail_v before_o he_o even_o so_o amen_n these_o word_n be_v a_o declaration_n of_o the_o four_o action_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n towards_o his_o church_n and_o that_o be_v his_o second_o come_v to_o judgement_n to_o judge_v both_o quick_a and_o dead_a wherein_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v sundry_a point_n first_o this_o note_n of_o attention_n behold_v second_o the_o action_n of_o christ_n come_n itself_o he_o come_v three_o the_o manner_n how_o with_o cloud_n amplify_v by_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o every_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o even_o they_o that_o pierce_v he_o four_a the_o effect_n of_o his_o come_n all_o tribe_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v
ver_fw-la 22.23_o iv._o every_o private_a man_n must_v profess_v and_o defend_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o christ_n against_o all_o the_o enemy_n thereof_o 1._o pet._n 3.15_o be_v ready_a always_o to_o give_v a_o answer_n to_o every_o man_n that_o ask_v you_o a_o reason_n of_o the_o hope_n that_o be_v in_o you_o and_o this_o confession_n must_v be_v not_o only_o in_o word_n but_o in_o deed_n for_o by_o a_o blameless_a and_o holy_a conversation_n every_o christian_n hold_v forth_o the_o word_n of_o life_n phil._n 2_o 15_o 16._o see_v the_o maintenance_n of_o true_a religion_n be_v so_o excellent_a a_o work_n use_n we_o must_v be_v admonish_v every_o one_o in_o our_o place_n to_o take_v pain_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n that_o belong_v unto_o we_o that_o by_o we_o christ●_n religion_n may_v be_v further_v for_o god_n church_n be_v not_o call_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n only_o because_o the_o minister_n thereof_o maintain_v god_n truth_n but_o also_o because_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v as_o a_o pillar_n in_o his_o place_n to_o maintain_v and_o profess_v the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n for_o his_o glory_n beside_o this_o be_v a_o duty_n of_o the_o first_o table_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v have_v more_o special_a care_n for_o the_o performance_n thereof_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v the_o two_o mean_n whereby_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n oppose_v herself_o against_o false_a teacher_n and_o have_v not_o faint_v here_o christ_n set_v down_o in_o what_o manner_n this_o church_n labour_v to_o maintain_v his_o true_a religion_n and_o thereby_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n namely_o by_o constancy_n and_o perseverance_n in_o labour_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a virtue_n and_o a_o notable_a example_n for_o we_o to_o follow_v for_o we_o through_o god_n goodness_n have_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o christ_n among_o we_o and_o for_o many_o year_n sundry_a among_o we_o have_v maintain_v the_o same_o against_o all_o enemy_n though_o not_o without_o some_o trouble_n and_o danger_n now_o this_o which_o have_v be_v do_v be_v nothing_o unless_o we_o hold_v on_o our_o good_a course_n constant_o and_o labour_n unto_o death_n in_o the_o maintenance_n thereof_o this_o exhortation_n be_v the_o more_o necessary_a because_o we_o know_v not_o how_o long_o we_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o gospel_n with_o peace_n for_o usual_o after_o long_a peace_n god_n try_v he_o by_o persecution_n neither_o know_v we_o by_o what_o mean_v of_o trial_n god_n will_v exercise_v us._n therefore_o as_o we_o now_o profess_v the_o gospel_n so_o let_v we_o continue_v constant_a therein_o and_o not_o turn_v with_o time_n or_o state_n for_o than_o we_o lose_v our_o commendation_n at_o christ_n hand_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n for_o her_o virtue_n verse_n 4._o nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v leave_v thy_o first_o love_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o proposition_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n a_o sharp_a and_o severe_a reproof_n of_o this_o church_n for_o decay_n in_o grace_n as_o will_v appear_v in_o the_o open_n of_o the_o word_n nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o here_o christ_n speak_v as_o a_o judge_n unto_o this_o church_n and_o to_o the_o minister_n thereof_o and_o lay_v this_o action_n unto_o their_o charge_n that_o they_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n that_o be_v that_o love_n which_o they_o bear_v to_o god_n and_o his_o religion_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n at_o that_o time_n when_o they_o be_v first_o call_v unto_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o love_n they_o be_v say_v to_o have_v leave_v not_o as_o though_o they_o have_v quite_o lose_v it_o but_o only_o because_o they_o suffer_v it_o to_o decay_v and_o to_o wax_v cold_a in_o good_a work_n but_o some_o will_v say_v they_o be_v before_o commend_v for_o their_o zeal_n and_o labour_n for_o god_n glory_n and_o for_o their_o severity_n against_o false_a teacher_n how_o then_o have_v they_o leave_v their_o first_o love_n answ._n at_o this_o time_n when_o christ_n do_v thus_o reprove_v they_o their_o love_n be_v commendable_a but_o yet_o it_o be_v nothing_o in_o regard_n of_o that_o which_o they_o have_v at_o their_o first_o conversion_n if_o christ_n have_v something_o against_o this_o church_n for_o leave_v her_o first_o love_n use_n then_o no_o doubt_n he_o have_v something_o against_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o against_o we_o at_o this_o day_n howsoever_o we_o may_v persuade_v ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v high_a in_o his_o favour_n yet_o we_o be_v in_o the_o like_a or_o a_o worse_a estate_n than_o this_o church_n now_o be_v for_o a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o body_n of_o our_o church_n have_v leave_v off_o their_o first_o love_n and_o the_o great_a part_n have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o that_o many_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n be_v too_o too_o evident_a for_o such_o as_o in_o queen_n mary_n time_n be_v content_a to_o suffer_v much_o for_o the_o gospel_n as_o the_o history_n of_o our_o church_n do_v show_v after_o they_o enjoy_v a_o little_a quietness_n become_v mere_a worldling_n as_o their_o life_n have_v testify_v afterward_o and_o in_o such_o congregation_n where_o the_o word_n have_v long_o be_v preach_v this_o be_v too_o apparent_a that_o man_n who_o for_o the_o space_n of_o twenty_o of_o ten_o or_o seven_o year_n have_v show_v fervent_a love_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n do_v now_o fall_v away_o and_o show_v none_o at_o all_o he_o that_o have_v but_o half_a a_o eye_n may_v see_v many_o for_o a_o year_n or_o two_o very_o forward_o and_o zealous_a in_o religion_n who_o soon_o after_o suffer_v pleasure_n profit_n or_o preferment_n to_o draw_v they_o quite_o away_o some_o i_o confess_v through_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n be_v free_a from_o this_o decay_n but_o there_o be_v yet_o a_o more_o grievous_a fault_n among_o we_o for_o the_o great_a part_n of_o our_o people_n have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o these_o be_v the_o day_n whereof_o christ_n say_v 24.12.22_o love_n shall_v wax_v cold_a and_o whereof_o paul_n say_v man_n shall_v be_v 3.2_o lover_n of_o themselves_o for_o take_v the_o most_o congregation_n where_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v long_o preach_v yet_o you_o shall_v find_v that_o the_o hearer_n be_v neither_o better_v for_o knowledge_n nor_o for_o obedience_n but_o remain_v still_o as_o ignorant_a and_o profane_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v this_o argue_v that_o they_o have_v no_o love_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n though_o they_o have_v a_o formal_a profession_n of_o his_o name_n in_o their_o mouth_n for_o where_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v there_o most_o needs_o be_v increase_n in_o knowledge_n in_o grace_n and_o in_o obedience_n again_o see_v how_o man_n general_o walk_v in_o their_o calling_n and_o therein_o behold_v a_o mere_a defect_n of_o love_n all_o the_o pain_n they_o take_v be_v for_o their_o private_a gain_n and_o pleasure_n no_o regard_n be_v have_v of_o god_n glory_n of_o the_o maintenance_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o of_o the_o good_a of_o their_o brethren_n herein_o their_o own_o conscience_n shall_v be_v the_o witness_n so_o that_o general_o this_o may_v be_v say_v we_o have_v no_o love_n at_o all_o what_o a_o action_n than_o shall_v we_o think_v have_v christ_n against_o we_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v grievous_a and_o so_o our_o case_n fearful_a and_o dangerous_a if_o a_o earthly_a prince_n and_o potentat_fw-la have_v a_o action_n against_o we_o and_o his_o case_n be_v good_a it_o will_v make_v we_o look_v about_o we_o yea_o to_o tremble_v and_o quake_v and_o to_o be_v at_o our_o wit_n end_n behold_v not_o a_o worldly_a prince_n but_o the_o king_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n have_v a_o matter_n against_o we_o just_a and_o grievo●●●_o oh_o how_o shall_v this_o move_v we_o to_o search_v ourselves_o to_o try_v our_o estate_n and_o to_o humble_v ourselves_o upon_o the_o knee_n of_o our_o heart_n before_o his_o majesty_n we_o may_v not_o imagine_v that_o this_o charge_n of_o christ_n do_v not_o concern_v we_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n show_v it_o belong_v to_o all_o that_o have_v ear_n to_o hear_v and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v labour_v to_o prevent_v god_n judgement_n by_o judge_v ourselves_o for_o our_o decay_n and_o want_v of_o love_n again_o this_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n for_o decay_n of_o love_n shall_v teach_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o increase_v in_o love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o our_o brethren_n add_v grace_n to_o grace_n in_o our_o heart_n as_o we_o add_v day_n unto_o day_n in_o our_o life_n that_o so_o our_o love_n may_v obound_v read_v 1._o thes._n 4.1.9_o 10_o where_o paul_n urge_v this_o duty_n at_o large_a he_o confess_v they_o do_v love_v one_o
sign_n or_o rule_v whereto_o he_o will_v conform_v and_o square_v the_o last_o judgement_n second_o whereas_o every_o man_n must_v be_v judge_v that_o be_v save_v or_o condemn_v according_a to_o his_o work_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o good_a work_n be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n yet_o not_o as_o cause_n thereof_o either_o efficient_a or_o help_v any_o way_n but_o only_o as_o a_o way_n or_o mean_n to_o come_v unto_o salvation_n for_o faith_n be_v necessary_a and_o good_a work_n be_v the_o token_n and_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o be_v necessary_a three_o here_o we_o must_v be_v admonish_v to_o be_v careful_a to_o abound_v in_o good_a work_n not_o to_o win_v heaven_n by_o they_o but_o to_o get_v assurance_n of_o salvation_n in_o ourselves_o and_o these_o good_a work_n be_v the_o do_v of_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n unto_o god_n and_o of_o charity_n unto_o our_o brethren_n even_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n or_o more_o plain_o the_o do_v of_o the_o general_a duty_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o a_o man_n calling_n for_o if_o these_o be_v do_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o glory_n proceed_v from_o faith_n and_o love_n unto_o our_o brethren_n though_o the_o call_n be_v never_o so_o base_a they_o be_v good_a work_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a this_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o evil_a way_n for_o sin_n be_v the_o mark_n of_o condemnation_n and_o so_o many_o wicked_a work_n as_o we_o commit_v so_o many_o mark_n and_o brand_n do_v we_o set_v upon_o ourselves_o of_o our_o just_a and_o deserve_a condemnation_n unless_o we_o repent_v last_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o joy_n in_o heaven_n and_o of_o torment_n in_o hell_n for_o judgement_n and_o reward_n go_v according_a to_o man_n work_n and_o therefore_o they_o that_o testify_v their_o faith_n by_o great_a and_o many_o good_a work_n shall_v have_v great_a reward_n they_o that_o testify_v their_o faith_n by_o lesser_a and_o few_o work_n shall_v have_v lesser_a reward_n and_o so_o for_o sin_n the_o more_o heinous_a they_o be_v the_o deep_a condemnation_n they_o do_v procure_v vers._n 24._o and_o to_o you_o i_o say_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n as_o many_o as_o have_v not_o this_o learning_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o speak_v i_o will_v put_v upon_o you_o none_o other_o burden_n 25._o but_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o hold_v fast_o till_o i_o come_v here_o christ_n come_v to_o a_o second_o part_n of_o his_o counsel_n which_o concern_v the_o angel_n and_o the_o better_a part_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n and_o first_o he_o begin_v with_o the_o preface_n of_o this_o counsel_n wherein_o we_o may_v observe_v two_o point_n first_o who_o speak_v second_o to_o who_o he_o speak_v for_o the_o first_o he_o that_o speak_v be_v christ._n i_o say_v hereby_o christ_n challenge_v unto_o himself_o the_o absolute_a and_o all_o sufficient_a authority_n of_o the_o supreme_a doctor_n of_o his_o church_n in_o that_o he_o speak_v in_o his_o own_o name_n whereby_o he_o put_v a_o plain_a difference_n between_o himself_o and_o all_o other_o his_o minister_n either_o prophet_n apostle_n or_o ordinary_a teacher_n for_o they_o must_v not_o propound_v any_o thing_n unto_o god_n people_n in_o their_o own_o name_n but_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ._n but_o christ_n teach_v in_o his_o own_o name_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o divine_a knowledge_n and_o understanding_n that_o i●_n reveal_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o thus_o christ_n himself_o speak_v in_o his_o own_o name_n to_o strike_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n and_o the_o better_a part_n thereof_o with_o reverence_n and_o to_o move_v they_o to_o receive_v and_o obey_v the_o counsel_n follow_v consider_v it_o come_v immediate_o from_o christ_n the_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n ii_o point_n the_o party_n to_o who_o he_o speak_v to_o you_o that_o be_v the_o angel_n and_o the_o better_a part_n of_o this_o church_n for_o so_o christ_n expound_v it_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v though_o first_o he_o say_v in_o general_a to_o you_o that_o be_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n when_o as_o christ_n will_v behave_v himself_o as_o the_o doctor_n and_o chief_a angel_n of_o this_o church_n note_n that_o he_o make_v a_o distinction_n of_o the_o person_n in_o the_o church_n and_o also_o devide_v his_o counsel_n give_v one_o doctrine_n and_o one_o judgement_n to_o one_o part_n and_o a_o diverse_a doctrine_n and_o judgement_n to_o another_o use_n this_o give_v we_o good_a direction_n for_o sundry_a action_n for_o some_o may_v ask_v how_o must_v doctrine_n be_v deliver_v in_o a_o mix_a congregation_n where_o some_o be_v papist_n some_o protestant_n some_o be_v harden_v other_o despair_v answ._n the_o person_n must_v be_v distinguish_v after_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n and_o suitable_a doctrine_n divide_v for_o they_o that_o every_o one_o may_v have_v his_o due_n impenitent_a sinner_n must_v be_v terrify_v and_o threaten_n deliver_v against_o they_o with_o exception_n of_o they_o that_o repent_v comfort_n must_v be_v propound_v and_o apply_v to_o they_o that_o despair_n with_o restraint_n from_o all_o impenitent_a person_n that_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n if_o any_o demand_n more_o particular_o who_o these_o be_v who_o christ_n call_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatyra_n christ_n answer_v direct_o as_o the_o word_n import_v to_o as_o many_o as_o have_v not_o this_o learning_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n where_o christ_n give_v two_o note_n whereby_o to_o discern_v who_o be_v the_o rest_n of_o they_o of_o thyatira_n the_o first_o be_v the_o not_o receive_v or_o maintain_v of_o the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezabell_n whereof_o entreaty_n have_v be_v former_o make_v the_o second_o note_n be_v ignorance_n in_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n neither_o have_v know_v the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n that_o be_v neither_o have_v acknowledge_v nor_o approve_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabell_n which_o be_v the_o deep_a and_o profound_a learning_n as_o themselves_o do_v judge_v in_o this_o observe_v a_o most_o wicked_a practice_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o follower_n they_o esteem_v high_o of_o their_o own_o opinion_n call_v they_o profound_a and_o deep_a learning_n but_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n in_o it_o there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n this_o in_o all_o age_n have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o wicked_a person_n high_o to_o esteem_v their_o own_o conceit_n and_o base_o to_o neglect_v the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o teacher_n of_o the_o jew_n do_v hold_v to_o this_o day_n that_o the_o lord_n give_v to_o moses_n a_o most_o plain_a and_o easy_a law_n which_o he_o deliver_v to_o his_o people_n but_o the_o most_o secret_a and_o profound_a doctrine_n be_v unwritten_a show_v to_o moses_n by_o revelation_n and_o by_o he_o deliver_v to_o the_o priest_n and_o levite_n which_o they_o keep_v still_o in_o their_o cabbala_n and_o of_o the_o like_a judgement_n touch_v scripture_n be_v the_o popish_a church_n the_o word_n write_v be_v but_o a_o inky_a word_n a_o dead_a letter_n or_o a_o nose_n of_o wax_n but_o the_o most_o perfect_a scripture_n be_v unwritten_a which_o be_v the_o consent_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o doctrine_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o catholic_n and_o by_o such_o great_a term_n the_o anabaptist_n libertine_n and_o arrian_n maintain_v their_o doctrine_n and_o abuse_v scripture_n call_v the_o write_a word_n milk_n for_o every_o novice_n but_o the_o consent_n of_o heart_n among_o themselves_o with_o revelation_n that_o be_v the_o strong_a meat_n yea_o this_o opinion_n have_v creep_v in_o among_o we_o in_o part_n man_n think_v base_o of_o scripture_n and_o prefer_v other_o man_n write_n before_o it_o for_o let_v a_o man_n preach_v plain_o the_o bare_a word_n of_o god_n and_o deliver_v doctrine_n and_o exhortation_n out_o of_o the_o same_o this_o be_v but_o plain_o preach_v but_o let_v another_o come_v and_o utter_v his_o mind_n partly_o in_o latin_a and_o partly_o in_o greek_a and_o other_o language_n allege_v withal_o the_o testimony_n of_o father_n counsel_n and_o other_o writer_n that_o be_v the_o learned_a preach_n and_o thus_o do_v most_o man_n abase_v scripture_n and_o exalt_v the_o write_n of_o man_n above_o it_o but_o see_v this_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o jezabell_n and_o wicked_a man_n let_v we_o on_o the_o contrary_n learn_v to_o reverence_v the_o write_a word_n and_o give_v place_n thereto_o above_o all_o the_o testimony_n and_o say_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v they_o count_v it_o deep_a learning_n but_o
nor_o hot_a i_o will_v thou_o were_v cold_a or_o hot_a vers._n 16._o therefore_o because_o thou_o be_v lukewarm_a and_o neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a it_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o i_o shall_v spew_v thou_o out_o of_o my_o mouth_n in_o these_o word_n and_o so_o forward_o to_o the_o 21._o vers_fw-la be_v contain_v the_o substance_n or_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n a_o dispraise_n vers_fw-la 15.16_o 17._o and_o counsel_n vers_fw-la 18.19.20_o they_o be_v dispraise_v for_o two_o vice_n first_o lukewarmenesse_a vers_fw-la 15.16_o second_o for_o their_o pride_n vers_fw-la 17._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n this_o be_v a_o general_a reproof_n signify_v thus_o much_o all_o thy_o work_n be_v know_v unto_o i_o and_o i_o utter_o dislike_v they_o then_o follow_v the_o reason_n of_o this_o dislike_n thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a which_o be_v a_o comparison_n borrow_v from_o water_n whereof_o there_o be_v three_o sort_n hot_a cold_a and_o lukewarm_a now_o hot_a and_o cold_a water_n do_v not_o so_o much_o annoy_v the_o stomach_n as_o lukewarm_a water_n do_v they_o be_v sometime_o comfortable_a to_o the_o stomach_n but_o lukewarm_a water_n do_v disquiet_v it_o till_o it_o be_v cast_v up_o and_o to_o these_o three_o kind_n of_o water_n he_o compare_v three_o sort_n of_o man_n by_o cold_a water_n he_o understand_v such_o as_o be_v enemy_n to_o reliligion_n as_o at_o this_o day_n be_v the_o jew_n and_o turk_n and_o other_o barbarous_a people_n by_o hot_a water_n he_o understandeth_v man_n that_o be_v earnest_a and_o zealous_a of_o the_o truth_n so_o that_o when_o he_o say_v of_o this_o church_n thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a his_o meaning_n be_v thou_o be_v neither_o a_o open_a enemy_n nor_o true_o zealous_a of_o my_o gospel_n i_o will_v thou_o were_v cold_a or_o hot_a christ_n wish_v not_o simple_o that_o they_o be_v enemy_n unto_o he_o but_o only_o in_o respect_n of_o that_o estate_n of_o lukewarmness_a in_o which_o they_o be_v as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v le●er_o thou_o were_v either_o cold_a or_o hot_a than_o thus_o lukewarm_a as_o thou_o be_v for_o if_o we_o shall_v understand_v it_o simple_o we_o shall_v make_v christ_n to_o desire_v that_o man_n shall_v be_v his_o enemy_n by_o lukewarm_a man_n he_o understand_v a_o people_n who_o be_v in_o show_n god_n church_n but_o in_o truth_n want_v the_o power_n of_o godliness_n and_o the_o zeal_n of_o the_o spirit_n because_o thou_o be_v such_o say_v christ_n to_o this_o church_n therefore_o i_o will_v spew_v thou_o out_o of_o my_o mouth_n that_o be_v look_v as_o he_o that_o have_v drink_v lukewarm_a water_n can_v abide_v it_o on_o his_o stomach_n but_o must_v needs_o spew_v it_o up_o again_o so_o be_o i_o weary_a of_o this_o thy_o securite_n i_o can_v abide_v it_o and_o therefore_o will_v i_o cast_v thou_o off_o from_o all_o fellowship_n with_o i_o and_o make_v of_o thou_o which_o be_v a_o church_n in_o show_n to_o be_v no_o church_n thus_o we_o see_v their_o fault_n namely_o lukewarmenesse_a the_o greatness_n whereof_o he_o aggravate_v first_o by_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o extreme_n cold_a and_o hot_a both_o which_o he_o prefer_v before_o it_o as_o may_v appear_v by_o his_o wish_n and_o desire_v and_o second_o by_o the_o punishment_n thereof_o namely_o utter_a rejection_n hereby_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o whither_o this_o fault_n may_v not_o just_o be_v charge_v upon_o we_o use_n after_o due_a trial_n it_o will_v appear_v that_o we_o be_v guilty_a of_o this_o sin_n the_o which_o that_o it_o may_v the_o better_o appear_v i_o will_v note_v the_o several_a kind_n of_o lukewarm_a christian_n the_o first_o lukewarm_a professor_n be_v the_o papist_n as_o the_o tenor_n of_o his_o religion_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o worship_n of_o god_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o he_o do_v part_n stake_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o salvation_n affirm_v that_o he_o receive_v from_o christ_n to_o work_v out_o his_o own_o salvation_n and_o so_o assume_v part_n of_o christ_n glory_n to_o himself_o second_o all_o timeservers_a be_v lukewarm_a gospeler_n that_o be_v all_o such_o as_o alter_v their_o religion_n with_o time_n and_o state_n and_o of_o this_o sort_n be_v the_o body_n of_o our_o people_n who_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v of_o the_o same_o religion_n the_o prince_n be_v of_o which_o show_v evident_o what_o they_o will_v do_v in_o time_n to_o come_v namely_o turn_v with_o the_o time_n as_o their_o forefather_n have_v do_v the_o three_o sort_n be_v the_o follower_n of_o nicodemus_n who_o come_v to_o christ_n by_o night_n only_o that_o be_v such_o as_o say_v and_o think_v that_o they_o may_v go_v to_o mass_n with_o their_o body_n if_o they_o keep_v their_o heart_n unto_o god_n these_o halt_n between_o two_o opinion_n and_o neither_o serve_v god_n nor_o ba●ll_n four_o all_o mediator_n such_o as_o will_v make_v pacification_n between_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o protestant_n and_o the_o papist_n so_o hold_v our_o religion_n as_o not_o care_v ●o_o embrace_v they_o also_o because_o they_o think_v they_o differ_v not_o in_o substance_n but_o in_o circumstance_n only_o let_v these_o pretend_v what_o they_o will_v they_o be_v in_o heart_n laoditian_n five_o all_o worldling_n which_o as_o christ_n say_v luk._n 16.13_o serve_v god_n and_o mammon_n god_n and_o the_o world_n by_o set_v their_o heart_n upon_o riches_n these_o man_n abound_v every_o where_o for_o though_o they_o hear_v god_n in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n and_o as_o it_o be_v touch_v he_o in_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o run_v after_o their_o covetousness_n ezech._n 33.31_o and_o who_o be_v such_o their_o conscience_n will_v witness_v yea_o their_o behaviour_n proclaim_v it_o to_o the_o world_n for_o though_o they_o will_v hear_v the_o word_n yet_o their_o wit_n and_o strength_n be_v spend_v upon_o the_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n thereof_o six_o those_o that_o profess_v christ_n reliligion_n in_o outward_a action_n of_o his_o worship_n but_o yet_o in_o their_o life_n give_v themselves_o to_o the_o common_a sin_n of_o the_o time_n some_o to_o drunkenness_n to_o fornication_n to_o covetousness_n or_o cruelty_n some_o to_o this_o sin_n and_o some_o to_o that_o to_o this_o sort_n we_o must_v refer_v those_o that_o in_o word_n approve_v religion_n and_o yet_o their_o heart_n delight_n be_v in_o garnish_v themselves_o with_o the_o monstrous_a brutish_a and_o irreligious_a form_n of_o strange_a and_o foreign_a attire_n these_o spend_v their_o time_n and_o wit_n in_o the_o deck_v of_o their_o body_n and_o so_o suffer_v their_o soul_n to_o go_v to_o wrack_n when_o as_o apparel_n shall_v be_v a_o occasion_n to_o put_v we_o in_o mind_n of_o a_o shame_n through_o sin_n and_o by_o modest_a attire_n we_o shall_v express_v the_o virtue_n of_o the_o heart_n but_o these_o hereby_o profess_v the_o vanity_n of_o their_o mind_n now_o though_o we_o be_v not_o entangle_v with_o these_o gross_a sin_n yet_o we_o can_v excuse_v ourselves_o from_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a for_o the_o want_n of_o zeal_n of_o god_n glory_n of_o love_n to_o his_o truth_n of_o care_n to_o obey_v his_o commandment_n and_o to_o keep_v good_a conscience_n the_o want_n of_o hatred_n of_o sin_n what_o argue_v all_o these_o but_o lukewarmness_a herein_o we_o must_v lay_v our_o hand_n upon_o our_o mouth_n with_o job_n for_o we_o can_v plead_v with_o god_n no_o not_o for_o this_o common_a sin_n but_o that_o we_o may_v be_v out_o of_o all_o doubt_n that_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a have_v infect_v our_o congregation_n as_o it_o do_v this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n i_o will_v make_v it_o plain_a by_o the_o sign_n thereof_o which_o be_v common_a among_o we_o that_o so_o we_o may_v the_o better_a know_v our_o fearful_a estate_n the_o first_o sign_n be_v negligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o that_o true_a religion_n which_o we_o profess_v this_o appear_v sundry_a way_n for_o first_o howsoever_o we_o come_v to_o the_o assembly_n where_o the_o word_n be_v preach_v yet_o few_o do_v profit_n there_o by_o increase_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o that_o religion_n which_o be_v teach_v and_o in_o the_o amendment_n of_o life_n this_o may_v any_o man_n see_v to_o be_v true_a that_o have_v half_o a_o eye_n to_o look_v into_o the_o state_n of_o our_o assembly_n and_o man_n own_o conscience_n will_v herein_o witness_v against_o they_o again_o where_o god_n word_n be_v ordinary_o hear_v there_o be_v very_o few_o that_o spend_v any_o time_n in_o search_v out_o and_o try_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v so_o or_o not_o which_o be_v teach_v they_o nay_o man_n will_v not_o be_v at_o cost_n to_o buy_v a_o bible_n and_o if_o they_o have_v one_o
persuade_v that_o as_o the_o member_n of_o a_o body_n be_v once_o dismember_v they_o can_v possible_o be_v join_v again_o so_o if_o natural_a brethren_n be_v once_o unnatural_o disjoin_v no_o glue_n will_v conjoin_v they_o fast_o again_o it_o be_v infinite_a to_o show_v example_n of_o brotherly_a love_n and_o hatred_n etc._n and_o othe●s_n have_v ease_v i_o of_o this_o pain_n now_o that_o good_a god_n who_o have_v bring_v you_o from_o one_o root_n place_v you_o in_o one_o country_n advance_v you_o to_o like_a credit_n and_o give_v you_o one_o heart_n give_v you_o also_o one_o inheritance_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n thus_o right_o worshipful_a i_o be_o bold_a to_o speak_v unto_o you_o and_o the_o world_n know_v i_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o lord_n know_v i_o desire_v not_o to_o flatter_v go_v on_o therefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o continue_v in_o love_n be_v settle_v in_o the_o truth_n and_o labour_n to_o honour_v he_o who_o thus_o honour_v you_o be_v not_o carry_v away_o with_o the_o mundi_fw-la show_n of_o this_o world_n but_o think_v religion_n the_o best_a nobility_n and_o that_o as_o 〈◊〉_d prudentius_n say_v generosa_fw-la christi_fw-la secta_fw-la nobilitat_fw-la viros_fw-la cui_fw-la quisquis_fw-la seruit_fw-la ille_fw-la verè_fw-la est_fw-la nobilis_fw-la he_o noble_a be_v that_o come_v of_o christ_n his_o race_n who_o serve_v this_o lord_n he_o sure_o be_v not_o base_a and_o this_o make_v theodosius_n more_o to_o thank_v god_n eccles._n that_o he_o be_v a_o christian_n than_o a_o king_n consider_v that_o he_o must_v lose_v the_o one_o he_o can_v not_o lose_v the_o other_o now_o as_o to_o one_o of_o you_o i_o be_o bind_v in_o parcicular_a and_o by_o he_o be_v a_o minister_n the_o despise_a ministry_n be_v not_o a_o little_a grace_v ●o_o for_o he_o i_o pray_v montagu_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o 20._o abraham_n to_o our_o abimelech_n a_o 12._o nathan_n to_o our_o david_n a_o 11._o jehoida_o to_o our_o joash_n 38._o a_o ebedmelech_n to_o jeremiah_n a_o 4.1_o elisha_n to_o the_o widow_n of_o this_o prophet_n decease_v a_o light_n in_o the_o court_n a_o trumpet_n in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o 5.2_o ahashuerosh_n may_v long_o hold_v out_o his_o golden_a sceptre_n unto_o he_o that_o by_o his_o mean_n dicat_fw-la great_a man_n may_v not_o want_v such_o as_o will_v tell_v they_o the_o truth_n no_o son_n earthly_a alexander_n account_v a_o son_n of_o jupiter_n and_o that_o no_o man_n may_v be_v more_o respect_v than_o a_o good_a 42._o pastor_n and_o that_o he_o may_v ever_o remember_v that_o say_n of_o wise_a solomon_n 22.11_o he_o that_o love_v pureness_n of_o heart_n for_o the_o grace_n of_o his_o lip_n the_o king_n shall_v be_v his_o friend_n his_o cyrus_n will_v not_o be_v speak_v to_o verbis_fw-la bissinis_fw-la in_o silken_a word_n to_o his_o alexander_n he_o need_v not_o speak_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d either_o sweet_a word_n or_o no_o word_n for_o if_o one_o antiochus_n may_v be_v surname_v holy_a and_o another_o good_a prince_n call_v the_o good_a king_n much_o more_o may_v he_o who_o religious_a knowledge_n surpass_v all_o the_o prince_n that_o have_v be_v of_o this_o nation_n and_o who_o humility_n be_v such_o that_o he_o will_v have_v his_o son_n to_o remember_v regium_fw-la that_o he_o differ_v not_o in_o stuff_n but_o in_o use_n from_o the_o rest_n of_o his_o people_n and_o that_o by_o god_n ordinance_n i_o be_o the_o bold_a for_o that_o one_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o all_o in_o the_o dedication_n of_o this_o book_n no_o man_n know_v love_v converse_v with_o and_o respect_v this_o author_n more_o than_o he_o he_o resort_v to_o he_o in_o his_o health_n visit_v he_o in_o sickness_n and_o preach_v a_o learned_a sermon_n for_o he_o at_o his_o death_n concern_v this_o author_n as_o he_o say_v of_o carthage_n i_o have_v rather_o be_v silent_a then_o say_v little_a and_o his_o worthy_a labour_n do_v speak_v enough_o for_o he_o by_o name_n that_o his_o theologicum_fw-la posthume_n dedicate_v to_o his_o excellent_a majesty_n by_o college_n a_o excellent_a divine_a in_o a_o word_n therefore_o whatsoever_o this_o man_n do_v he_o desire_v to_o profit_v other_o by_o it_o he_o think_v as_o it_o be_v write_v 7._o of_o bernard_n in_o his_o life_n that_o he_o be_v not_o his_o own_o man_n but_o depute_v to_o the_o service_n of_o other_o he_o be_v never_o idle_a but_o as_o marcellam_fw-la hierome_n report_v of_o ambrose_n and_o bernard_n of_o himself_o he_o do_v either_o read_v or_o meditate_v or_o pray_v or_o confer_v or_o counsel_n or_o comfort_n or_o write_v or_o preach_v and_o thus_o as_o the_o consume_v emblem_n be_v of_o a_o faithful_a teacher_n he_o like_o a_o wax_n candle_n in_o give_v light_n to_o other_o in_o a_o short_a time_n extinguish_v himself_o yet_o in_o this_o short_a time_n of_o he_o what_o art_n be_v he_o not_o master_n of_o what_o virtue_n be_v he_o not_o endue_v with_o he_o be_v a_o complete_a divine_a and_o have_v his_o blessing_n in_o the_o church_n that_o no_o man_n write_n be_v read_v of_o all_o sort_n and_o in_o all_o country_n with_o great_a grace_n and_o profit_n than_o he_o he_o be_v peaceable_a in_o the_o church_n patient_a of_o wrong_n and_o free_a from_o ambition_n for_o as_o jerome_n say_v of_o nepotian_n aurum_fw-la calcans_fw-la schedule_n consectabatur_fw-la he_o regard_v not_o his_o purse_n but_o follow_v his_o book_n and_o as_o bernard_n say_v he_o live_v in_o terra_fw-la auri_fw-la sine_fw-la auro_fw-la in_o a_o kingdom_n of_o gold_n without_o gold_n a_o excellent_a gift_n he_o have_v to_o define_v proper_o divide_v exact_o dispute_v subtle_o answer_v direct_o speak_v pithy_o and_o write_v judicial_o and_o how_o he_o preach_v if_o these_o sermon_n do_v give_v a_o testimony_n what_o witness_n have_v they_o who_o often_o hear_v he_o themselves_o i_o have_v publish_v of_o his_o now_o two_o discourse_n and_o i_o only_o do_v it_o that_o these_o his_o labour_n may_v not_o perish_v i_o have_v no_o benefit_n by_o they_o but_o exceed_v great_a pain_n and_o since_o i_o understand_v that_o his_o other_o labour_n be_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o friend_n to_o make_v benefit_n for_o his_o child_n i_o will_v ease_v myself_o of_o the_o like_a labour_n and_o be_v a_o mean_n that_o they_o may_v have_v the_o benefit_n of_o the_o future_a impression_n of_o this_o book_n the_o which_o how_o faithful_o i_o have_v publish_v i_o appeal_v to_o the_o godly_a and_o indifferent_a reader_n and_o i_o hope_v no_o honest_a mind_a man_n will_v be_v hire_v to_o calumniate_v it_o thus_o as_o one_o desirous_a to_o be_v serviceable_a in_o my_o call_n profitable_a to_o the_o church_n not_o forgetful_a of_o my_o friend_n and_o to_o testify_v the_o happiness_n of_o your_o house_n which_o be_v in_o your_o father_n time_n and_o be_v now_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o aurelian_a the_o emperor_n refertapi●s_v &_o ecclesia_fw-la dei_fw-la replenish_v with_o the_o godly_a and_o a_o church_n of_o god_n and_o withal_o to_o leave_v a_o monument_n of_o my_o duty_n to_o you_o all_o i_o have_v as_o you_o see_v publish_v this_o exposition_n of_o seven_o epistle_n under_o your_o eight_o name_n nothing_o doubt_v but_o it_o will_v be_v as_o welcome_a to_o you_o as_o by_o your_o countenance_n it_o may_v be_v profitable_a to_o the_o church_n the_o god_n of_o heaven_n give_v you_o all_o that_o blessing_n of_o blessing_n julianum_fw-la which_o if_o jerome_n say_v true_a few_o man_n have_v that_o you_o may_v transire_fw-la à_fw-la deliciis_fw-la ad_fw-la dilicias_fw-la go_v on_o from_o grace_n to_o grace_n and_o be_v a_o long_a time_n happy_a in_o this_o life_n and_o ever_o for_o happy_a in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v london_n saint_n martin_n in_o the_o field_n from_o my_o worshipful_a friend_n master_n oldisworths_n house_n 16._o by_o which_o family_n as_o paul_n be_v by_o the_o house_n of_o onesiphorus_n in_o the_o time_n of_o this_o late_a and_o i_o wish_v i_o may_v say_v the_o last_o visitation_n i_o have_v receive_v no_o small_a refresh_n march_n 12._o 1604._o your_o worship_n to_o command_v robert_n hill_n fellow_n of_o s._n johns_n college_n in_o cambridge_n to_o the_o godly_a and_o christian_a reader_n grace_n and_o peace_n i_o be_o not_o ignorant_a good_a reader_n how_o ungrateful_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v to_o deal_v by_o way_n of_o censure_n or_o reformation_n in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o other_o have_v go_v before_o and_o many_o time_n for_o the_o smart_n that_o follow_v do_v man_n beshrew_v their_o own_o finger_n yet_o the_o warrant_n of_o a_o good_a call_n will_v breed_v peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n that_o herein_o shall_v endeavour_n the_o observance_n of_o these_o rule_n of_o love_n to_o wit_n evil_a judge_v the_o best_a of_o that_o which_o be_v do_v and_o thing_n refer_v his_o own_o pain_n to_o the_o glory_n
of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n here_o be_v a_o reason_n of_o the_o former_a benediction_n for_o see_v the_o time_n of_o the_o accomplish_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v at_o hand_n &_o must_v short_o be_v fulfil_v therefore_o those_o be_v bless_v which_o read_v and_o keep_v the_o same_o in_o memory_n and_o it_o be_v a_o answer_n to_o a_o secret_a objection_n for_o they_o may_v have_v say_v we_o need_v not_o to_o read_v or_o remember_v this_o prophecy_n see_v it_o shall_v not_o be_v fulfil_v in_o our_o day_n but_o he_o add_v the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n wherein_o they_o must_v be_v fulfil_v and_o therefore_o it_o must_v be_v mark_v these_o word_n for_o substance_n be_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n where_o it_o be_v say_v the_o revelation_n be_v of_o thing_n that_o must_v short_o be_v do_v and_o here_o they_o be_v repeat_v again_o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o these_o prophecy_n contain_v weighty_a matter_n to_o be_v deep_o consider_v and_o earnest_o think_v on_o and_o s._n john_n repeat_v the_o same_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o awake_v the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n out_o of_o the_o sleep_n of_o security_n and_o make_v they_o stand_v upon_o their_o watch_n continual_o for_o though_o they_o can_v fall_v into_o the_o dead_a sleep_n of_o sin_n yet_o the_o slumber_n of_o security_n may_v overtake_v they_o the_o wise_a virgin_n slumber_n as_o well_o as_o the_o foolish_a matth._n 25.5_o and_o the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n the_o true_a church_n confess_v that_o she_o sleep_v though_o her_o heart_n wake_v cant._n 5.2_o second_o to_o confirm_v and_o hearten_v the_o church_n and_o all_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n against_o the_o affliction_n to_o come_v for_o herein_o be_v the_o common_a say_n true_a he_o that_o be_v forewarn_v be_v fore-armed_n now_o in_o these_o word_n the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n christ_n will_v teach_v we_o to_o observe_v that_o whatsoever_o thing_n may_v befall_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o life_n whether_o affliction_n temptation_n death_n or_o the_o last_o judgement_n itself_o all_o will_v come_v short_o this_o consideration_n ought_v to_o take_v place_n in_o our_o heart_n be_v of_o great_a use_n in_o our_o life_n as_o to_o stay_v we_o from_o many_o sin_n so_o to_o move_v we_o to_o do_v all_o thing_n with_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o much_o evil_n the_o bad_a servant_n beat_v his_o fellow_n because_o he_o think_v his_o master_n do_v defer_v his_o come_n matth._n 24.48.49_o the_o old_a world_n go_v on_o in_o sin_n never_o regard_v noah_n prophecy_n and_o so_o know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o sweep_v they_o all_o away_o matth._n 24.39_o we_o shall_v lay_v these_o to_o our_o heart_n and_o always_o think_v with_o paul_n 4.5_o the_o lord_n be_v at_o ●and_n the_o rather_o because_o we_o have_v have_v the_o gospel_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o temporal_a blessing_n these_o eight_o and_o thirty_o year_n now_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v interchangeable_a one_o while_o peace_n and_o then_o trouble_v so_o as_o it_o be_v like_a this_o peaceable_a state_n will_v not_o long_o continue_v but_o we_o must_v be_v try_v and_o the_o time_n of_o ou●_n trial_n be_v at_o hand_n for_o whatsoever_o must_v befall_v the_o church_n will_v come_v short_o we_o must_v therefore_o prepare_v for_o trouble_v and_o so_o we_o shall_v find_v it_o the_o less_o grievous_a vers._n 4._o john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o preface_n to_o wit_n the_o inscription_n of_o this_o vision_n and_o it_o have_v two_o branch_n first_o a_o dedication_n in_o these_o word_n john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n second_o a_o salutation_n in_o the_o next_o word_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n etc._n etc._n to_o the_o nine_o verse_n in_o the_o dedication_n observe_v first_o the_o penman_n that_o dedicate_v this_o book_n second_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v send_v for_o the_o first_o the_o penman_n be_v john_n who_o here_o again_o repeat_v his_o name_n to_o show_v and_o certify_v every_o reader_n of_o this_o book_n that_o he_o be_v without_o all_o doubt_n the_o true_a penman_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o write_v this_o revelation_n but_o though_o he_o repeat_v his_o name_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o add_v any_o title_n of_o honour_n or_o commendation_n as_o he_o do_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o a_o true_a pattern_n of_o modesty_n and_o humility_n which_o be_v never_o to_o speak_v in_o our_o own_o cause_n to_o our_o own_o praise_n but_o only_o in_o case_n of_o necessity_n when_o god_n glory_n may_v be_v advance_v and_o the_o credit_n of_o our_o particular_a calling_n maintain_v this_o paul_n practise_v who_o often_o humble_v himself_o and_o call_v himself_o the_o 15._o least_o of_o all_o the_o apostle_n yea_o the_o 15_o chief_a of_o all_o sinner_n yet_o when_o the_o credit_n of_o his_o apostleship_n come_v into_o question_n than_o he_o set_v out_o himself_o show_v he_o be_v a_o true_a apostle_n one_o of_o the_o chief_a and_o above_o those_o which_o do_v false_o call_v themselves_o so_o as_o we_o may_v find_v in_o both_o of_o his_o 11.5_o epistle_n to_o the_o corinthian_n second_o the_o person_n to_o who_o he_o write_v be_v the_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n concern_v they_o note_v two_o thing_n first_o he_o write_v to_o church_n second_o to_o the_o church_n in_o asia_n for_o the_o first_o why_o write_v he_o to_o the_o church_n rather_o than_o to_o the_o church_n see_v there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a catholic_a church_n ans._n the_o church_n may_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n first_o as_o it_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o the_o elect_a &_o so_o it_o be_v but_o one_o second_o as_o the_o same_o be_v part_v into_o several_a branch_n and_o company_n one_o part_n be_v in_o one_o country_n and_o another_o part_n in_o some_o other_o wherein_o also_o every_o several_a congregation_n profess_v the_o gospel_n be_v a_o particular_a church_n and_o so_o there_o may_v be_v many_o church_n all_o of_o they_o be_v member_n of_o one_o catholic_a church_n as_o the_o sea_n be_v only_o one_o yet_o it_o consist_v of_o many_o part_n which_o take_v their_o name_n of_o the_o country_n whereto_o they_o adjoine_v be_v call_v so_o many_o particular_a sea_n as_o the_o english_a sea_n the_o spanish_a sea_n french_a italian_a scottish_a sea_n etc._n etc._n and_o of_o particular_a church_n must_v john_n be_v understand_v in_o this_o place_n now_o john_n choose_v rather_o to_o write_v to_o church_n than_o to_o particular_a man_n first_o because_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o book_n concern_v the_o church_n be_v a_o prophetical_a history_n touch_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o end_n second_o because_o particular_a church_n which_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n be_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n 1._o timoth_n 3.15_o and_o the_o church_n be_v so_o call_v not_o that_o her_o authority_n be_v above_o the_o word_n but_o first_o because_o it_o be_v the_o treasure_n house_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n be_v preserve_v from_o age_n to_o age_n against_o the_o rage_n of_o god_n enemy_n second_o because_o the_o church_n give_v testimony_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n and_o three_o because_o it_o publish_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o ordinary_a ministry_n which_o god_n have_v ordain_v therein_o second_o in_o the_o dedication_n of_o this_o book_n among_o all_o particular_a church_n god_n direct_v he_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o those_o seven_o in_o asia_n no_o doubt_n for_o special_a cause_n first_o because_o they_o be_v then_o most_o famous_a church_n as_o the_o chapter_n follow_v and_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n do_v plain_o show_v second_o that_o the_o call_n of_o the_o gentile_n to_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o long_o before_o have_v be_v foretell_v may_v be_v more_o evident_a for_o here_o the_o jew_n be_v pass_v by_o and_o the_o gentile_n send_v unto_o last_o we_o may_v here_o observe_v that_o s._n john_n know_v no_o prerogative_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n above_o other_o church_n for_o if_o it_o be_v the_o mother_n church_n whereon_o al●_n other_o church_n shall_v depend_v as_o the_o papist_n will_v have_v it_o i_o will_v know_v of_o they_o why_o john_n pass_v by_o it_o in_o the_o dedication_n of_o this_o book_n which_o contain_v matter_n needful_a for_o all_o church_n to_o know_v grace_n be_v with_o
you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o begin_v johns_n salutation_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n salutation_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n civil_a and_o religious_a civil_a be_v that_o which_o man_n use_v ordinary_o one_o to_o another_o wish_v health_n welfare_n and_o such_o like_a religious_a be_v that_o which_o be_v peculiar_a and_o proper_a unto_o the_o church_n comprehend_v in_o it_o a_o benediction_n also_o and_o such_o be_v this_o here_o use_v by_o s._n john_n it_o may_v also_o be_v call_v apostolical_a because_o it_o be_v so_o usual_a with_o they_o in_o their_o epistle_n and_o they_o use_v it_o the_o rather_o because_o it_o be_v so_o correspondent_a to_o their_o ministry_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o preach_v which_o be_v the_o ministry_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n the_o thing_n here_o desire_v second_o in_o prayer_n whereto_o belong_v the_o duty_n of_o benediction_n to_o pronounce_v a_o blessing_n upon_o the_o people_n as_o do_v the_o priest_n in_o their_o ministration_n under_o the_o law_n num._n 6.23_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n with_o his_o apostle_n when_o they_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o as_o every_o minister_n shall_v do_v to_o his_o whole_a congregation_n before_o they_o depart_v and_o this_o be_v also_o include_v in_o this_o salutation_n for_o hereby_o they_o bless_v those_o church_n to_o who_o they_o do_v write_v but_o to_o come_v to_o the_o word_n which_o be_v most_o excellent_a and_o contain_v in_o they_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o gospel_n grace_n in_o scripture_n signify_v two_o thing_n first_o god_n favour_n second_o some_o gift_n of_o god_n free_o bestow_v now_o here_o by_o grace_n be_v mean_v not_o any_o particular_a gift_n of_o god_n but_o the_o gracious_a favour_n and_o good_a will_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o some_o in_o christ_n for_o his_o own_o for_o it_o be_v here_o oppose_v to_o peace_n a_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o therefore_o can_v signify_v the_o same_o thing_n now_o mark_v s._n john_n in_o thi●_n salutation_n begin_v with_o grace_n because_o it_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o happiness_n and_o of_o all_o god_n blessing_n whatsoever_o we_o be_v and_o all_o that_o we_o have_v be_v of_o grace_n our_o election_n redemption_n vocation_n justification_n and_o sanctification_n our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n &_o our_o perseverance_n in_o they_o both_o proceed_v from_o this_o fountain_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n it_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o yea_o it_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o salvation_n first_o we_o must_v have_v this_o and_o then_o we_o may_v look_v for_o all_o other_o blessing_n and_o peace_n peace_n be_v take_v sundry_a way_n in_o the_o scripture_n first_o for_o welfare_n &_o good_a success_n in_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n by_o god_n blessing_n exod._n 18.7_o moses_n and_o jethroe_n salute_v ask_v each_o other_o of_o their_o peace_n that_o be_v of_o his_o welfare_n and_o so_o it_o be_v partly_o take_v in_o this_o place_n second_o for_o that_o unity_n and_o bless_a concord_n which_o be_v in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n among_o god_n child_n and_o so_o it_o be_v especial_o take_v here_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o have_v six_o part_n every_o one_o whereof_o be_v a_o most_o worthy_a blessing_n the_o first_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n which_o be_v when_o we_o stand_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n reconcile_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n jesus_n rom._n 5.1_o second_o peace_n with_o god_n angel_n for_o they_o guard_v such_o as_o be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o carry_v they_o as_o a_o nurse_n do_v her_o child_n in_o her_o arm_n that_o they_o hurt_v not_o their_o foot_n at_o any_o stone_n psal._n 91.11_o and_o they_o rejoice_v at_o our_o good_a estate_n the_o three_o be_v peace_n with_o a_o man_n self_n when_o his_o conscience_n will_v not_o accuse_v he_o but_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o be_v wash_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n this_o be_v that_o peace_n of_o god_n which_o pass_v all_o understanding_n philip._n 4.7_o the_o four_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n church_n notable_o prefigure_v by_o the_o peaceable_a habitation_n of_o wild_a beast_n and_o tame_v together_o as_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o calf_n the_o wolf_n and_o the_o lamb_n the_o child_n and_o the_o cockatrice_n etc._n etc._n isaiah_n 11_o 6._o and_o plain_o to_o be_v see_v among_o the_o believer_n acts._n 4.32_o who_o be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n and_o heart_n the_o five_o be_v peace_n with_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n church_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n so_o joseph_n have_v peace_n in_o pharaoh_n court_n so_o daniel_n have_v peace_n in_o the_o court_n of_o nabuchadnezzar_n for_o when_o the_o three_o child_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o oven_n we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o he_o do_v revolt_v unto_o idolatry_n or_o hide_v himself_o but_o be_v in_o favour_n in_o the_o court_n obtain_v privilege_n to_o be_v excuse_v the_o six_o be_v peace_n with_o all_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n with_o the_o beast_n of_o the_o field_n fowl_n of_o the_o air_n and_o fish_n of_o the_o sea_n this_o the_o lord_n promise_v in_o the_o covenant_n that_o he_o will_v make_v for_o they_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n hosea_n 2._o vers_fw-la 18._o yea_o the_o child_n of_o god_n shall_v tread_v upon_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o serpent_n and_o they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v he_o psalm_n 91._o vers._n 13._o and_o this_o his_o peace_n stand_v herein_o that_o by_o god_n bless_a providence_n he_o shall_v find_v help_n and_o comfort_n from_o all_o god_n creature_n in_o this_o place_n whether_o we_o take_v peace_n for_o outward_a welfare_n or_o for_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n yet_o it_o be_v place_v after_o grace_n because_o it_o follow_v as_o a_o fruit_n thereof_o first_o a_o man_n must_v be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o then_o come_v all_o the_o blessing_n of_o peace_n unto_o he_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n that_o be_v i_o wish_v you_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o peace_n the_o bless_a fruit_n thereof_o even_o all_o outward_a welfare_n and_o especial_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n have_v peace_n with_o god_n with_o his_o holy_a angel_n with_o his_o church_n with_o your_o own_o heart_n with_o your_o enemy_n as_o far_o as_o may_v be_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n use_n whereas_o s._n john_n wish_v grace_n unto_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v for_o above_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o apostle_n practice_n must_v be_v our_o precept_n so_o do_v david_n many_o say_v who_o will_v show_v we_o any_o good_a but_o lord_n lift_v thou_o up_o the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n upon_o i_o psal._n 4.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v let_v the_o most_o of_o the_o world_n seek_v what_o they_o will_v as_o riches_n pleasure_n etc._n etc._n yet_o my_o desire_n be_v of_o thy_o love_n and_o favour_n above_o all_o and_o oftentimes_o he_o call_v god_n his_o portion_n his_o rock_n and_o castle_n of_o defence_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v long_v for_o to_o show_v that_o all_o his_o joy_n be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o so_o it_o shall_v be_v with_o we_o but_o we_o little_o practice_v this_o because_o we_o bring_v from_o our_o cradle_n natural_a presumption_n which_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n and_o love_n of_o god_n but_o we_o must_v cast_v off_o this_o false_a persuasion_n and_o take_v a_o new_a course_n and_o labour_v first_o to_o see_v that_o we_o be_v out_o of_o god_n favour_n lose_v sheep_n prodigal_a child_n in_o ourselves_o yea_o the_o very_a firebrand_n of_o hell_n and_o this_o to_o see_v our_o own_o want_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o first_o step_n to_o grace_n second_o feel_v this_o want_n and_o misery_n in_o ourselves_o we_o must_v earnest_o desire_v and_o in_o our_o soul_n hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n three_o we_o must_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o true_a faith_n lie_v hold_v upon_o the_o grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n propound_v in_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o apply_v they_o to_o ourselves_o particular_o second_o after_o grace_n he_o wish_v unto_o they_o peace_n where_o note_n the_o true_a order_n of_o seek_v for_o the_o blessing_n of_o this_o life_n we_o must_v not_o begin_v with_o welfare_n and_o prosperity_n but_o our_o first_o and_o chief_a care_n must_v be_v to_o obtain_v the_o grace_n and_o favour_n
of_o god_n so_o christ_n bid_v we_o first_o to_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n for_o when_o we_o be_v in_o god_n kingdom_n of_o grace_n reconcile_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n than_o all_o thing_n needful_a shall_v be_v minister_v to_o we_o matth._n 6.33_o this_o discover_v the_o bad_a practice_n of_o most_o man_n every_o where_o use_n who_o in_o seek_v the_o blessing_n of_o god_n begin_v at_o the_o wrong_a end_n they_o will_v toil_v themselves_o in_o their_o calling_n to_o get_v wealth_n honour_n pleasure_n and_o preferment_n but_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v not_o regard_v which_o notwithstanding_o be_v the_o true_a and_o right_a foundation_n of_o all_o outward_a welfare_n here_o some_o will_v say_v if_o god_n give_v i_o wealth_n honour_n and_o reputation_n than_o he_o love_v i_o for_o these_o be_v sign_n thereof_o i_o answer_v these_o be_v no_o sure_a token_n of_o his_o favour_n in_o christ_n for_o those_o that_o be_v his_o enemy_n may_v enjoy_v they_o all_o as_o job._n 21.7_o to_o the_o 14._o this_o david_n perceive_v how_o the_o wicked_a may_v flourish_v in_o their_o outward_a prosperity_n have_v more_o than_o heart_n can_v wish_v psalm_n 73.3.7_o and_o yet_o they_o stand_v but_o in_o slippery_a place_n and_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n herewith_o deceive_v himself_o he_o that_o want_v god_n favour_n in_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o curse_a wretch_n and_o a_o firebrand_n of_o hell_n though_o he_o have_v all_o the_o world_n for_o outward_a thing_n at_o his_o command_n for_o all_o earthly_a thing_n sever_v from_o god_n special_a grace_n be_v but_o a_o heap_n of_o misery_n the_o wicked_a man_n peace_n be_v no_o peace_n say_v the_o lord_n isaiah_n 48.22_o and_o the_o man_n that_o have_v god_n grace_n in_o christ_n though_o he_o want_v all_o worldly_a benefit_n yet_o he_o have_v more_o than_o all_o the_o world_n without_o it_o for_o hereby_o alone_o he_o be_v true_o bless_a and_o happy_a from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o be_v set_v down_o the_o first_o cause_n and_o author_n of_o these_o two_o grace_n and_o peace_n to_o wit_n god_n himself_o distinguish_v into_o three_o person_n the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n the_o father_n be_v note_v in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o these_o and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n the_o son_n in_o the_o five_o verse_n and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a and_o lord_n over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n unto_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n etc._n etc._n s._n john_n in_o the_o first_o place_n describe_v the_o father_n by_o a_o distribution_n which_o express_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o god_n in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v in_o which_o he_o allude_v to_o that_o exod._n 3.14_o 15._o where_o moses_n demand_n of_o god_n if_o the_o people_n shall_v ask_v who_o send_v he_o what_o he_o shall_v answer_v the_o lord_n bid_v he_o say_v ehich_n jehovah_n have_v send_v i_o which_o two_o name_n serve_v to_o one_o end_n namely_o to_o express_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n they_o be_v translate_v i_o be_o and_o the_o lord_n but_o these_o english_a word_n do_v not_o full_o express_v their_o signification_n yet_o s._n john_n expound_v they_o here_o make_v ehich_n to_o signify_v he_o which_o be_v which_o be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v which_o word_n of_o john_n also_o in_o the_o original_n be_v more_o full_a in_o sense_n than_o our_o english_a tongue_n can_v well_o express_v and_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v thus_o explain_v grace_n and_o peace_n be_v from_o he_o which_o be_v in_o himself_o and_o of_o himself_o a_o most_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a substance_n which_o be_v a_o most_o perfect_a substance_n and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v a_o most_o absolute_a perfect_a simple_a substance_n and_o essence_n in_o these_o word_n be_v touch_v sundry_a weighty_a point_n first_o touch_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n namely_o that_o god_n be_v a_o most_o absolute_a perfect_a substance_n and_o essence_n which_o have_v his_o be_v in_o himself_o of_o himself_o and_o from_o none_o other_o paul_n say_v a_o idol_n be_v nothing_o 1._o cor._n 8.4_o that_o be_v nothing_o subsist_v in_o nature_n but_o a_o mere_a fond_a device_n of_o man_n brain_n but_o the_o true_a god_n be_v a_o essence_n subsist_v and_o that_o of_o himself_o alone_o perfect_o and_o herein_o differ_v from_o all_o idol_n and_o false_a god_n second_o hereby_o we_o see_v a_o difference_n between_o god_n and_o all_o his_o creature_n every_o creature_n be_v a_o substance_n as_o angel_n and_o man_n likewise_o man_n body_n and_o soul_n be_v substance_n yet_o none_o of_o these_o have_v be_v of_o themselves_o but_o from_o god_n and_o of_o god_n and_o yet_o we_o must_v not_o conceive_v that_o the_o creature_n be_v part_n of_o god_n though_o they_o have_v their_o substance_n and_o be_v of_o he_o for_o then_o each_o creature_n shall_v be_v god_n for_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o divine_a substance_n can_v be_v without_o the_o divine_a nature_n but_o god_n substance_n be_v indivisible_a and_o incommunicable_a to_o the_o creature_n my_o meaning_n then_o be_v that_o god_n make_v the_o creature_n out_o of_o himself_o of_o that_o matter_n which_o he_o create_v by_o his_o word_n and_o preserve_v they_o be_v make_v which_o by_o the_o way_n shall_v teach_v we_o to_o return_v our_o body_n and_o soul_n by_o obedience_n unto_o god_n in_o lieu_n of_o thankfulness_n endeavour_v his_o glory_n all_o the_o day_n of_o our_o life_n three_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v eternal_a every_o way_n without_o beginning_n or_o end_v for_o it_o be_v he_o which_o be_v which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v angel_n and_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n they_o be_v eternal_a but_o not_o every_o way_n though_o they_o be_v eternal_a in_o that_o they_o shall_v never_o die_v yet_o have_v they_o a_o beginning_n second_o they_o be_v eternal_a not_o absolute_o but_o by_o participation_n for_o god_n make_v they_o eternal_a but_o the_o lord_n be_v most_o absolute_o of_o himself_o eternal_a four_o note_n he_o say_v not_o from_o he_o which_o shall_v be_v but_o from_o he_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o be_v to_o judgement_n to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o this_o eternal_a god_n be_v also_o a_o judge_n of_o all_o his_o creature_n especial_o man_n and_o angel_n a_o point_n of_o special_a use_n to_o move_v we_o to_o well_o before_o god_n with_o all_o good_a conscience_n if_o any_o shall_v flatter_v himself_o think_v he_o shall_v be_v dead_a before_o that_o day_n come_v i_o answer_v i●_n may_v be_v so_o what_o then_o think_v th●u_n thereby_o to_o escape_v his_o judgement_n no_o very_o for_o this_o god_n come_v to_o judge_v thou_o particular_o by_o death_n and_o thereby_o to_o reserve_v thou_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o great_a day_n o●_n that_o we_o can_v serious_o think_v on_o this_o it_o will_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o move_v we_o to_o repentance_n by_o break_v of_o the_o course_n of_o sin_n and_o endeavour_v ●o_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n act_n 24.16_o and_o so_o shall_v we_o be_v ready_a to_o meet_v he_o at_o his_o come_n whether_o by_o death_n or_o judgement_n and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o 〈◊〉_d before_o his_o throne_n these_o word_n common_o be_v expound_v of_o seven_o angel_n of_o god_n which_o stand_v before_o the_o thron●_n and_o minister_v unto_o he_o but_o it_o can_v be_v mean_v of_o they_o for_o two_o cause_n a_o first_o because_o 〈◊〉_d and_o peace_n be_v here_o say_v to_o proceed_v from_o these_o seven_o spirit_n but_o it_o can_v come_v from_o the_o holy_a angel_n which_o attend_v to_o minister_v before_o the_o lord_n second_o in_o this_o verse_n which_o be_v a_o benediction_n or_o a_o salutation_n of_o 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o church_n the_o seven_o spirit_n be_v set_v before_o jesus_n christ_n the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o trinity_n but_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n nor_o respect_n for_o which_o the_o angel_n shall_v be_v place_v before_o christ._n the_o word_n be_v rather_o thus_o to_o be_v expound_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n this_o exposition_n be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o text_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n may_v be_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o the_o seven_o spirit_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o though_o he_o be_v only_o one_o in_o substance_n
but_o this_o shall_v be_v our_o wisdom_n betimes_o to_o sue_v for_o grace_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o defeat_v satan_n and_o prevent_v eternal_a wail_n second_o here_o see_v what_o a_o evil_a conscience_n be_v it_o lie_v asleep_o here_o while_o a_o man_n live_v and_o never_o trouble_v he_o and_o so_o it_o may_v do_v in_o death_n also_o but_o in_o the_o last_o day_n when_o he_o shall_v see_v his_o judge_n with_o his_o eye_n than_o it_o will_v stir_v it_o will_v torment_v he_o it_o will_v attach_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v he_o it_o will_v lay_v to_o his_o charge_n all_o his_o sin_n his_o contempt_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o word_n his_o unbelief_n in_o the_o time_n of_o grace_n and_o than_o it_o will_v break_v his_o heart_n be_v as_o good_a as_o a_o thousand_o witness_n to_o condemn_v he_o this_o shall_v cause_v all_o man_n to_o labour_n to_o get_v a_o good_a conscience_n wash_v and_o purge_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n which_o will_v not_o suffer_v we_o to_o lie_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n and_o upon_o our_o repentance_n will_v assure_v we_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n which_o if_o it_o do_v in_o this_o life_n then_o will_v it_o never_o make_v we_o to_o wail_v at_o the_o last_o day_n but_o it_o will_v excuse_v we_o and_o make_v we_o look_v up_o to_o our_o redeemer_n and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o he_o but_o take_v heed_n when_o thy_o conscience_n lie_v asleep_a and_o accuse_v not_o for_o thy_o sin_n no_o not_o at_o death_n that_o be_v a_o evil_a conscience_n which_o will_v awake_v at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n to_o torment_n and_o condemn_v thou_o v._o point_n the_o mean_n whereby_o he_o confirm_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o second_o come_v of_o christ_n that_o be_v by_o a_o double_a note_n of_o asseveration_n even_o so_o amen_n one_o of_o these_o be_v take_v from_o the_o greek_n even_o so_o the_o second_o from_o the_o hebrew_n amen_n be_v both_o as_o much_o as_o amen_o amen_n or_o very_o very_o in_o which_o phrase_n saint_n john_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o confirm_v the_o thing_n we_o avouch_v there_o be_v three_o way_n whereby_o a_o thing_n may_v be_v avouch_v first_o by_o a_o simple_a and_o bare_a affirmation_n or_o negation_n second_o by_o a_o earnest_a asseveration_n three_o by_o a_o oath_n now_o s._n john_n use_v these_o two_o note_n of_o assure_v in_o this_o weighty_a matter_n of_o christ_n second_o come_v say_v he_o come_v even_o so_o amen_o that_o be_v certain_o and_o without_o all_o doubt_n it_o be_v so_o hereby_o teach_v we_o first_o that_o a_o asseveration_n must_v not_o be_v use_v but_o only_o when_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n be_v of_o great_a weight_n and_o moment_n here_o than_o we_o see_v that_o wretched_a be_v their_o practice_n who_o use_v to_o bind_v every_o word_n with_o a_o oath_n which_o be_v a_o degree_n above_o this_o asseveration_n yea_o they_o also_o be_v here_o just_o reprove_v who_o in_o their_o ordinary_a communication_n have_v ever_o in_o their_o mouth_n some_o weighty_a asseveration_n our_o saviour_n often_o use_v these_o word_n of_o asseveration_n yet_o only_o in_o matter_n of_o weight_n and_o moment_n and_o when_o the_o hearer_n be_v to_o be_v move_v to_o great_a attention_n and_o their_o heart_n be_v to_o be_v more_o full_o settle_v in_o some_o truth_n of_o great_a importance_n second_o by_o these_o asseveration_n john_n will_v teach_v we_o to_o hold_v against_o the_o practice_n of_o atheist_n that_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n be_v most_o certain_a and_o undoubted_a which_o thing_n we_o shall_v more_o serious_o observe_v because_o in_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n there_o be_v breed_v this_o false_a persuasion_n that_o either_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v summon_v to_o judgement_n or_o else_o that_o christ_n come_n be_v far_o off_o like_v to_o the_o evil_a servant_n who_o say_v my_o master_n defer_v his_o come_n which_o evil_a servant_n by_o nature_n be_v every_o one_o of_o us._n three_o hereby_o john_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v one_o special_a note_n and_o mark_v of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n namely_o to_o desire_v and_o long_o after_o unfeigned_o the_o second_o come_v of_o christ_n to_o judgement_n for_o as_o these_o word_n be_v a_o asseveration_n so_o withal_o they_o contain_v a_o most_o earnest_a desire_n even_o so_o amen_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v by_o way_n of_o answer_n to_o the_o proclaim_n of_o his_o come_n lord_n grant_v it_o be_v so_o yea_o lord_n let_v it_o be_v so_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o saint_n paul_n describe_v all_o those_o who_o must_v receive_v the_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n by_o this_o property_n that_o they_o love_v his_o appear_v 2._o tim._n 4.8_o as_o for_o the_o ungodly_a it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o they_o they_o be_v not_o justify_v nor_o sanctify_v and_o so_o not_o reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n can_v love_v this_o appear_v nay_o they_o can_v wish_v with_o all_o their_o heart_n there_o be_v no_o hell_n nor_o last_o judgement_n and_o by_o this_o one_o note_n we_o may_v well_o judge_v of_o our_o estate_n for_o if_o from_o our_o heart_n we_o desire_v and_o long_o for_o this_o second_o come_v to_o judgement_n and_o wish_v he_o will_v come_v ●0_n quick_o than_o it_o be_v a_o certain_a token_n and_o sign_n we_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v receive_v the_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n but_o if_o as_o yet_o we_o feel_v not_o this_o longing_n and_o hunger_a desire_n in_o we_o than_o we_o must_v suspect_v ourselves_o and_o labour_v every_o day_n to_o feel_v it_o for_o it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o say_v 6.10_o how_o long_a lord_n and_o with_o john_n even_o so_o amen_n verse_n 8._o i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n say_v the_o lord_n which_o i●_n which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v even_o the_o almighty_a after_o saint_n john_n have_v describe_v christ_n at_o large_a in_o the_o former_a verse_n he_o bring_v he_o in_o speak_v of_o himself_o by_o a_o figure_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o this_o clause_n say_v the_o lord_n the_o end_n and_o scope_n of_o these_o word_n in_o this_o verse_n be_v to_o confirm_v that_o which_o be_v before_o speak_v of_o christ_n be_v a_o proof_n and_o reason_n thereof_o after_o this_o manner_n to_o be_v conceive_v he_o which_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o etc._n etc._n he_o be_v sufficient_a to_o be_v a_o king_n priest_n and_o prophet_n to_o the_o church_n and_o be_v both_o able_a and_o willing_a to_o bestow_v on_o they_o all_o blessing_n which_o serve_v for_o their_o good_a the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o argument_n be_v omit_v the_o second_o part_n be_v contain_v in_o this_o eight_o verse_n but_o i_o be_o the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n and_o therefore_o i_o be_o sufficient_a etc._n etc._n in_o this_o eight_o verse_n be_v three_o point_n concern_v christ._n first_o he_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n second_o he_o be_v be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v three_o he_o be_v almighty_a for_o the_o first_o that_o christ_n be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n saint_n john_n express_v by_o a_o comparison_n take_v from_o the_o greek_a alphabet_n and_o it_o stand_v thus_o as_o in_o the_o a_o b_o c_o of_o the_o grecian_n alpha_n be_v the_o first_o letter_n and_o therefore_o the_o beginning_n of_o all_o the_o letter_n and_o omega_n be_v the_o last_o and_o therefore_o the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o letter_n so_o say_v christ_n be_o i_o the_o begin_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o thing_n the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o similitude_n be_v in_o these_o word_n i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n that_o be_v i_o be_o as_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o second_o part_n in_o these_o word_n the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n from_o this_o and_o such_o like_a manner_n of_o speak_v the_o papist_n gather_v that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o worship_n god_n in_o a_o strange_a language_n and_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v to_o be_v read_v and_o deliver_v to_o the_o people_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n but_o their_o collection_n be_v frivolous_a for_o though_o the_o unlearned_a english_a man_n know_v not_o what_o alpha_n and_o omega_n be_v yet_o the_o church_n to_o who_o this_o book_n be_v write_v be_v grecian_n know_v general_o what_o be_v mean_v hereby_o again_o though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n use_v here_o and_o there_o a_o strange_a word_n or_o phrase_n yet_o we_o may_v not_o follow_v that_o practice_n in_o the_o whole_a service_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o neither_o the_o word_n nor_o prayer_n shall_v be_v understand_v of_o the_o people_n as_o the_o papist_n do_v i_o be_o the_o beginning_n christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o beginning_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o he_o
yet_o so_o long_o as_o christ_n be_v present_a their_o commission_n must_v cease_v and_o it_o be_v as_o great_a pride_n and_o great_a for_o any_o to_o presume_v to_o be_v head_n of_o all_o church_n in_o christ_n presence_n than_o for_o a_o man_n to_o sit_v vicegerent_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o prince_n second_o see_v christ_n be_v always_o present_a with_o his_o church_n we_o be_v teach_v to_o walk_v with_o god_n and_o before_o god_n as_o enoch_n do_v genes_n 5.22_o which_o duty_n stand_v in_o these_o point_n first_o whatsoever_o we_o say_v or_o take_v in_o hand_n we_o must_v do_v it_o as_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o christ._n second_o we_o must_v continual_o depend_v upon_o christ_n providence_n who_o be_v ever_o present_a with_o his_o church_n provide_v all_o thing_n for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o of_o every_o member_n thereof_o three_o we_o must_v do_v all_o our_o action_n as_o look_v for_o approbation_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n for_o which_o end_n we_o must_v take_v direction_n for_o the_o same_o out_o of_o his_o word_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v most_o excellent_a for_o by_o walk_v with_o god_n we_o shall_v be_v enable_v to_o many_o good_a duty_n as_o namely_o live_v unblamable_o in_o this_o wicked_a world_n make_v conscience_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o approve_v ourselves_o both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n in_o hart_n and_o life_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o place_n where_o john_n see_v christ._n the_o second_o argument_n whereby_o john_n describe_v christ_n be_v his_o figure_n or_o form_n in_o these_o word_n one_o like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n some_o think_v that_o these_o word_n be_v a_o description_n of_o some_o angel_n not_o of_o christ_n because_o he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n not_o the_o son_n of_o man_n himself_o but_o they_o be_v deceive_v for_o he_o which_o be_v here_o describe_v be_v before_o call_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o it_o be_v he_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a which_o can_v agree_v to_o any_o but_o to_o christ._n now_o the_o word_n may_v more_o significant_o be_v translate_v thus_o one_o like_a to_o a_o son_n of_o man_n for_o if_o it_o be_v translate_v that_o son_n of_o man_n than_o christ_n must_v needs_o be_v the_o resemblance_n for_o so_o he_o be_v call_v act._n 7.56_o but_o here_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v like_a to_o a_o son_n of_o man_n by_o the_o usual_a phrase_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n whereby_o be_v mean_v that_o he_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o man_n and_o christ_n be_v not_o here_o call_v a_o man_n but_o be_v say_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o man_n because_o he_o appear_v unto_o john_n not_o in_o his_o true_a manhood_n which_o be_v then_o in_o heaven_n but_o in_o the_o likeness_n of_o his_o manhood_n and_o note_v this_o that_o as_o christ_n here_o appear_v to_o john_n in_o this_o vision_n so_o do_v he_o always_o appear_v after_o his_o ascension_n steven_n indeed_o see_v his_o true_a manhood_n act._n 7._o but_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o paul_n hear_v his_o voice_n when_o he_o be_v convert_v acts._n 9.5_o and_o see_v the_o lord_n 1._o cor._n 9.1_o but_o no_o man_n can_v prove_v that_o chrst_n appear_v unto_o he_o in_o his_o true_a manhood_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o all_o these_o vision_n john_n see_v not_o his_o true_a manhood_n but_o a_o resemblance_n thereof_o now_o christ_n appear_v thus_o for_o special_a consideration_n for_o man_n be_v too_o much_o addict_v to_o his_o bodily_a presence_n this_o be_v the_o fault_n of_o his_o own_o friend_n and_o disciple_n therefore_o christ_n will_v hereby_o teach_v we_o not_o to_o seek_v for_o his_o bodily_a presence_n but_o rather_o to_o lift_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o seek_v to_o have_v fellowship_n with_o he_o by_o faith_n for_o this_o cause_n he_o say_v to_o marie_n after_o his_o resurrection_n touch_v i_o not_o i_o be_o not_o yet_o ascend_v to_o my_o father_n john_n 20.17_o this_o paul_n have_v learn_v though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n say_v he_o after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o 2._o cor._n 5.15_o now_o if_o christ_n after_o his_o ascension_n never_o appear_v in_o his_o true_a manhood_n i●_n teach_v we_o that_o the_o defence_n of_o christ_n real_a presence_n in_o the_o sacrament_n be_v needless_a for_o if_o god_n church_n have_v spiritual_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n by_o faith_n it_o be_v sufficient_a again_o whereas_o christ_n appear_v in_o the_o shape_n and_o form_n of_o man_n after_o his_o ascension_n the_o papist_n gather_v that_o we_o may_v make_v image_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o answerable_o of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o those_o form_n wherein_o they_o appear_v as_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o form_n of_o a_o 2._o dove_n and_o 9_o of_o the_o father_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o a_o old_a man_n ans._n it_o be_v not_o unlawful_a to_o make_v or_o to_o have_v a_o image_n of_o christ_n manhood_n so_o that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o religious_a use_n though_o it_o be_v doubtful_a whether_o any_o now_o have_v a_o true_a picture_n thereof_o but_o if_o it_o be_v to_o represent_v whole_a christ_n god_n and_o man_n or_o be_v use_v to_o remember_v christ_n thereby_o or_o to_o worship_n christ_n therein_o it_o be_v a_o idol_n as_o for_o the_o form_n of_o a_o old_a man_n or_o of_o a_o dove_n they_o may_v be_v make_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o history_n of_o the_o bible_n when_o it_o be_v paint_v or_o picture_v but_o then_o we_o must_v conceive_v that_o these_o form_n be_v no_o image_n of_o the_o father_n son_n or_o holy_a ghost_n but_o only_a representation_n of_o such_o visible_a appearance_n as_o sometime_o be_v sign_n and_o pledge_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o those_o person_n but_o now_o to_o abstract_n those_o form_n apart_o from_o the_o history_n and_o to_o make_v they_o image_n of_o any_o person_n in_o trinity_n be_v flat_a against_o the_o second_o commandment_n which_o do_v general_o forbid_v all_o image_n of_o god_n not_o except_v those_o very_a shape_n in_o which_o himself_o take_v liberty_n to_o testify_v his_o presence_n for_o some_o time_n and_o there_o be_v no_o exception_n against_o god_n commandment_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o seek_v shift_n &_o excuse_n for_o a_o thing_n forbid_v deo_fw-la special_o consider_v we_o may_v not_o meddle_v with_o god_n beyond_o our_o commission_n from_o god_n clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n down_o to_o his_o foot_n here_o christ_n be_v further_o describe_v by_o his_o attire_n the_o first_o part_n whereof_o be_v a_o long_a garment_n reach_v to_o his_o foot_n the_o cause_n why_o he_o so_o appear_v may_v be_v these_o first_o to_o signify_v that_o he_o be_v the_o high_a priest_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o so_o continue_v do_v the_o office_n of_o the_o high_a priest_n for_o his_o church_n after_o his_o ascension_n in_o present_v the_o merit_n of_o his_o one_o only_a sacrifice_n and_o make_v intercession_n to_o god_n the_o father_n for_o they_o for_o the_o long_a garment_n be_v one_o of_o those_o wherewith_o the_o high_a priest_n be_v clothe_v in_o his_o ministration_n under_o the_o law_n second_o to_o signify_v that_o he_o be_v the_o prince_n of_o peace_n for_o the_o long_a garment_n not_o only_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o among_o the_o heathen_a have_v be_v always_o a_o note_n of_o peace_n and_o so_o christ_n be_v call_v isa._n 9.6_o three_o to_o show_v that_o he_o have_v in_o his_o breast_n the_o 2.3_o treasure_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n and_o the_o 11.2_o spirit_n of_o counsel_n for_o this_o long_a robe_n always_o pertain_v to_o they_o that_o excel_v in_o counsel_n and_o wisdom_n and_o so_o christ_n be_v describe_v isaiah_n 11.2_o now_o in_o this_o example_n of_o christ_n we_o may_v learn_v a_o duty_n touch_v our_o attire_n namely_o that_o the_o outward_a garment_n of_o the_o body_n shall_v be_v suitable_a to_o the_o good_a thing_n that_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o the_o heart_n as_o to_o our_o wisdom_n knowledge_n fear_v of_o god_n name_n to_o our_o sobriety_n modesty_n temperance_n humility_n and_o all_o other_o virtue_n whatsoever_o we_o must_v not_o only_o in_o speech_n and_o action_n as_o in_o hear_v god_n word_n and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n show_v ourselves_o to_o be_v burn_a light_n but_o even_o by_o the_o gesture_n and_o attire_n of_o our_o body_n both_o for_o matter_n and_o form_n show_v forth_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o heart_n but_o miserable_a be_v these_o time_n wherein_o man_n attire_n be_v suitable_a not_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o their_o heart_n but_o to_o the_o common_a corruption_n of_o the_o time_n for_o such_o it_o be_v
for_o the_o first_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n many_o do_v expound_v this_o of_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o liberality_n but_o that_o will_v not_o so_o well_o stand_v for_o he_o say_v to_o every_o church_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o yet_o some_o of_o they_o be_v blame_v for_o want_n of_o these_o good_a work_n by_o work_n than_o be_v mean_v the_o way_n that_o be_v the_o practice_n and_o deal_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n as_o well_o of_o minister_n as_o people_n in_o all_o their_o affair_n also_o by_o knowledge_n here_o we_o must_v understand_v a_o knowledge_n that_o go_v with_o application_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o compare_v this_o with_o the_o four_o verse_n whither_o it_o have_v relation_n for_o thus_o they_o must_v go_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o approve_v of_o they_o and_o yet_o i_o have_v something_o against_o thou_o so_o that_o his_o meaning_n be_v i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v all_o thy_o way_n and_o deal_n in_o thy_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v manifest_a unto_o i_o and_o i_o do_v general_o approve_v of_o they_o here_o first_o in_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o knowledge_n christ_n minister_v a_o remedy_n against_o secret_a sin_n and_o offence_n the_o thief_n the_o murderer_n and_o adulterer_n wait_v for_o the_o night_n wherein_o to_o attempt_v their_o shameful_a practice_n the_o tradesman_n in_o secret_n falsify_v his_o weight_n and_o mingle_v his_o ware_n among_o most_o man_n fraud_n oppression_n and_o injustice_n do_v abound_v and_o all_o because_o they_o think_v that_o if_o man_n see_v not_o all_o be_v well_o as_o david_n say_v the_o wicked_a man_n say_v god_n shall_v not_o see_v he_o will_v not_o regard_v 94.7_o but_o if_o man_n can_v think_v and_o be_v persuade_v of_o this_o that_o christ_n see_v and_o know_v all_o their_o way_n it_o will_v cause_v they_o to_o make_v conscience_n not_o only_o of_o gross_a sin_n but_o even_o of_o their_o hide_a and_o secret_a offence_n second_o whereas_o this_o knowledge_n be_v join_v with_o approbation_n it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o this_o can_v stand_v with_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n to_o approve_v of_o that_o which_o be_v not_o answerable_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o his_o law_n as_o the_o best_a work_n of_o the_o most_o righteous_a man_n be_v not_o be_v stain_v with_o some_o corruption_n isay._n 64_o 6._o answ._n the_o gospel_n which_o be_v another_o part_n of_o god_n will_n reveal_v more_o unto_o we_o than_o ever_o the_o law_n can_v do_v namely_o that_o if_o a_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n to_o he_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n and_o that_o god_n will_v accept_v his_o true_a desire_n and_o endeavour_n to_o please_v he_o for_o the_o deed_n itself_o 2._o cor._n 8.12_o and_o thus_o according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o gospel_n christ_n approve_v of_o their_o work_n in_o this_o place_n though_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o abide_v the_o ●igor_n of_o his_o law_n but_o a_o papist_n will_v here_o reason_v thus_o if_o a_o righteous_a man_n work_n be_v approve_v of_o god_n than_o they_o be_v no_o sin_n for_o god_n will_v not_o approve_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v sinful_a and_o if_o his_o work_n be_v no_o sin_n than_o he_o may_v fulfil_v the_o law_n and_o so_o be_v justify_v by_o his_o work_n answ._n that_o which_o christ_n approve_v simple_o have_v no_o sin_n in_o it_o but_o here_o he_o only_o approve_v of_o their_o work_n in_o part_n namely_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o come_v from_o the_o work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o they_o but_o as_o they_o proceed_v from_o the_o will_n of_o the_o worker_n which_o be_v in_o part_n corrupt_v they_o be_v not_o free_a from_o the_o stain_n of_o sin_n and_o so_o he_o approve_v they_o not_o again_o work_v of_o grace_n be_v approve_v of_o christ_n with_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o accept_v of_o the_o person_n he_o remit_v the_o fault_n that_o be_v in_o his_o good_a work_n and_o so_o only_o approve_v his_o own_o work_n in_o he_o and_o so_o here_o we_o must_v conceive_v of_o his_o approbation_n of_o their_o work_n to_o wit_n as_o proceed_v from_o his_o spirit_n and_o have_v the_o fault_n thereof_o remit_v in_o his_o own_o merit_n the_o special_a commendation_n of_o this_o church_n be_v for_o particular_a action_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v diligent_a labour_n which_o be_v a_o excellent_a work_n especal_o in_o a_o minister_n of_o god_n word_n to_o be_v painful_a in_o his_o particular_a call_n for_o the_o faithful_a instruction_n and_o godly_a regiment_n of_o his_o particular_a charge_n hence_o paul_n say_v 1._o tim._n 5.17_o he_o that_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n be_v principal_o worthy_a double_a honour_n and_o herein_o paul_n match_v yea_o prefer_v himself_o before_o other_o apostle_n that_o he_o labour_v more_o abundant_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n than_o they_o all_o 1._o cor._n 15.10_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n use_n if_o it_o be_v do_v as_o it_o ought_v be_v a_o work_n full_a of_o great_a pain_n and_o labour_n contrary_a to_o the_o common_a opinion_n of_o man_n who_o think_v that_o the_o life_n of_o the_o minister_n be_v full_a of_o ease_n and_o his_o calling_n a_o matter_n of_o nothing_o such_o as_o may_v be_v do_v with_o the_o turn_n of_o the_o hand_n but_o here_o the_o judgement_n of_o christ_n be_v other_o way_n who_o use_v not_o thus_o to_o approve_v a_o light_n or_o idle_a work_n second_o this_o commendation_n of_o diligence_n in_o the_o minister_n must_v admonish_v all_o christian_n that_o desire_v to_o be_v approve_v of_o christ_n to_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o learn_v and_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o they_o may_v do_v the_o same_o and_o here_o a_o common_a fault_n be_v to_o be_v reprove_v many_o will_v hear_v but_o where_o be_v their_o labour_n to_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n &_o in_o grace_n that_o be_v want_v which_o i●_n the_o cause_n of_o such_o fruitless_a hear_n as_o be_v common_a in_o the_o world_n for_o earthly_a thing_n man_n refuse_v no_o pain_n but_o god_n heavenly_a knowledge_n and_o grace_n be_v not_o regard_v what_o a_o shame_n be_v this_o that_o man_n shall_v bestow_v their_o strength_n and_o wit_n about_o base_a and_o transitory_a thing_n and_o yet_o neglect_v the_o main_a good_a which_o concern_v their_o soul_n for_o ever_o three_o the_o minister_n diligence_n in_o teach_v must_v provoke_v conscience_n of_o obedience_n in_o the_o hearer_n that_o be_v the_o end_n of_o his_o work_n without_o this_o he_o spend_v his_o strength_n in_o vain_a and_o therefore_o with_o the_o apostle_n they_o must_v endeavour_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n and_o all_o man_n act._n 24.16_o the_o second_o thing_n which_o christ_n here_o commend_v be_v patience_n in_o bear_v the_o cross_n which_o do_v usual_o accompany_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ._n and_o this_o indeed_o be_v praise_n worthy_a in_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n for_o herein_o he_o go_v before_o sundry_a worthy_a prophet_n jeremie_n be_v marvelous_a impatient_a for_o the_o mock_n of_o the_o people_n 15._o and_o though_o jonas_n have_v be_v school_v in_o the_o whale_n belly_n yet_o when_o all_o thing_n go_v not_o according_a to_o his_o mind_n in_o the_o destruction_n of_o niniveh_n he_o become_v exceed_v discontent_a herein_o must_v all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n become_v follower_n of_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n use_n while_o they_o labour_v in_o the_o gospel_n of_o god_n they_o must_v possess_v their_o soul_n with_o patience_n and_o make_v know_v to_o all_o man_n their_o meek_a and_o mild_a spirit_n yea_o every_o christian_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o religion_n must_v learn_v to_o practice_v this_o duty_n luk._n 8.16_o the_o good_a ground_n receive_v the_o seed_n and_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n but_o how_o with_o patience_n neither_o can_v we_o possible_o attain_v to_o eternal_a life_n unless_o we_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n to_o bear_v the_o cross_n for_o whosoever_o will_v live_v godly_a must_v suffer_v affliction_n 2._o tim._n 3.12_o through_o many_o tribulation_n we_o must_v enter_v into_o heaven_n act._n 14.22_o ii_o again_o here_o observe_v how_o christ_n join_v labour_n and_o patience_n together_o this_o he_o do_v for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o let_v we_o see_v the_o fruit_n of_o sin_n which_o god_n have_v set_v on_o the_o labour_n of_o man_n before_o the_o fall_n the_o labour_n of_o man_n calling_n be_v practise_v without_o all_o trouble_n or_o pain_n but_o since_o man_n fall_n the_o best_a calling_n have_v their_o cross_n and_o vexation_n which_o be_v the_o punishment_n of_o man_n transgression_n socond_o to_o show_v we_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n against_o the_o good_a progress_n of_o the_o gospel_n 2.18_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o thessalonian_n
he_o will_v have_v come_v to_o they_o but_o satan_n do_v hinder_v he_o he_o seek_v the_o trouble_n and_o sorrow_n of_o the_o minister_n not_o only_o by_o stir_v up_o persecution_n but_o by_o keepinh_v his_o people_n from_o profit_v by_o his_o ministry_n and_o therefore_o every_o minister_n have_v need_v to_o take_v pain_n with_o patience_n in_o his_o call_n and_o as_o christ_n join_v together_o labour_n and_o patience_n in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n so_o shall_v every_o christian_n after_o this_o direction_n join_v patience_n with_o his_o pain_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o particular_a call_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o church_n commonwealth_n or_o family_n for_o look_v what_o be_v the_o estate_n of_o the_o minister_n in_o his_o place_n such_o shall_v be_v the_o estate_n of_o every_o child_n of_o god_n in_o he_o this_o therefore_o they_o must_v do_v first_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a call_n and_o therein_o labour_n and_o take_v pain_n with_o all_o good_a conscience_n then_o consider_v the_o cross_n do_v accompany_v godly_a diligence_n they_o must_v labour_v to_o join_v patience_n with_o their_o diligence_n for_o their_o continuance_n in_o welldoing_a even_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o for_o attain_v of_o this_o patience_n they_o must_v set_v before_o they_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n blessing_n and_o protection_n while_o they_o so_o continue_v not_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v dismay_v by_o any_o affliction_n and_o if_o we_o shall_v thus_o walk_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o particular_a place_n painful_o and_o with_o patience_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o commendation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o bless_a reward_n which_o far_o surpass_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n and_o their_o reward_n but_o on_o contrary_a if_o we_o walk_v in_o our_o calling_n negligent_o or_o else_o forsake_v they_o because_o of_o affliction_n or_o be_v impatient_a in_o our_o labour_n we_o shall_v loose_v our_o reward_n and_o undergo_v the_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v worse_o than_o all_o outward_a evil_n that_o can_v befall_v us._n the_o three_o special_a work_n for_o which_o christ_n commend_v this_o church_n be_v severity_n show_v against_o wicked_a man_n in_o these_o word_n and_o how_o thou_o can_v not_o bear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a by_o evil_a man_n he_o mean_v such_o as_o live_v offensive_o and_o maintain_v manifest_a error_n and_o heresy_n these_o she_o can_v not_o bear_v but_o judge_v they_o as_o burden_n and_o therefore_o seek_v to_o disburden_v herself_o of_o they_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o it_o be_v a_o necessary_a thing_n for_o every_o church_n to_o be_v purge_v of_o evil_a man_n use_n the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o all_o age_n have_v put_v in_o practice_v this_o work_n so_o soon_o as_o cain_n have_v slay_v his_o brother_n abel_n 4.14_o god_n cast_v he_o out_o from_o his_o face_n as_o appear_z by_o his_o own_o complaint_n to_o wit_n from_o that_o particular_a place_n where_o adam_n and_o his_o family_n worship_v god_n when_o false_a prophet_n and_o idolater_n do_v arise_v among_o the_o israelit_n the_o lord_n command_v 8._o that_o they_o shall_v be_v kill_v and_o take_v from_o among_o they_o and_o therefore_o he_o say_v to_o jeremie_n 15.19_o if_o thou_o turn_v and_o repent_v i_o will_v bring_v thou_o again_o and_o if_o thou_o take_v away_o the_o precious_a from_o the_o vile_a thou_o shall_v be_v according_a to_o my_o word_n 1._o cor._n 5.4_o 5_o paul_n command_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o incestuous_a man_n be_v deliver_v unto_o satan_n the_o church_n purge_v of_o that_o old_a leaven_n and_o that_o wicked_a man_n put_v from_o among_o they_o verse_n 13._o beside_o the_o evidence_n of_o these_o testimony_n some_o reason_n may_v be_v add_v to_o prove_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o separation_n first_o god_n will_v be_v worship_v in_o a_o holy_a manner_n and_o they_o that_o worship_n god_n must_v be_v purge_v and_o sanctify_v but_o evil_a man_n defile_v god_n worship_n and_o therefore_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o church_n second_o lest_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v infect_v with_o the_o contagion_n of_o their_o doctrine_n or_o the_o infection_n of_o their_o life_n for_o as_o leaven_n sour_v the_o whole_a lump_n so_o will_v evil_a man_n defile_v the_o whole_a church_n three_o they_o be_v burden_n to_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o must_v be_v cast_v out_o for_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v ease_v of_o every_o burden_n this_o doctrine_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n &_o aught_o to_o be_v practise_v of_o god_n church_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v a_o common_a fault_n in_o the_o most_o congregation_n among_o we_o wherein_o all_o that_o will_v be_v admit_v not_o only_o to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n but_o also_o unto_o the_o lord_n table_n hand_n over_o head_n without_o restraint_n as_o though_o every_o man_n be_v a_o good_a &_o sound_a christian_n whereas_o experience_n show_v that_o many_o be_v ignorant_a many_o contemner_n of_o the_o gospel_n many_o sabbath_n breaker_n drunkard_n and_o blasphemer_n all_o which_o ought_v to_o be_v bar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n sever_v from_o the_o church_n as_o burden_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o christ_n have_v give_v to_o his_o church_n a_o power_n judicial_a to_o suspend_v evil_a man_n from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o to_o excommunicate_v they_o from_o the_o outward_a fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n for_o else_o he_o will_v not_o have_v commend_v this_o minister_n with_o his_o church_n for_o the_o execution_n of_o this_o power_n the_o reason_n allege_v to_o the_o contrary_a be_v of_o no_o force_n i._o say_v they_o the_o parable_n matth._n 13.30_o allow_v the_o grow_v together_o of_o tare_n and_o wheat_n till_o harvest_n and_o therefore_o evil_a man_n must_v be_v suffer_v in_o the_o church_n without_o separation_n answ._n in_o that_o parable_n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o any_o particular_a purge_n of_o the_o church_n by_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n but_o of_o the_o universal_a purge_n of_o his_o whole_a church_n by_o his_o holy_a angel_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n for_o there_o the_o field_n do_v not_o signify_v any_o particular_a church_n but_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o the_o servant_n be_v not_o m●n_z but_o angel_n that_o must_v gather_v together_o all_o both_o good_a and_o bad_a in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o last_o judgement_n again_o they_o allege_v luk_n 14.23_o compel_v they_o in_o the_o high_a way_n to_o come_v into_o the_o supper_n here_o say_v they_o all_o must_v be_v bring_v in_o but_o none_o must_v be_v exclude_v the_o society_n of_o the_o church_n ans._n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o compel_a man_n unto_o the_o sacrament_n but_o unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n whereto_o man_n must_v be_v cause_v to_o subject_v themselves_o which_o hinder_v nothing_o why_o the_o ungodly_a shall_v not_o be_v debar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v the_o seal_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n ordain_v only_o for_o such_o as_o repent_v and_o believe_v qu._n see_v this_o separation_n must_v be_v make_v how_o far_o forth_o may_v we_o converse_v with_o those_o that_o be_v open_o evil_a &_o offensive_a either_o for_o life_n or_o doctrine_n ans._n evil_a man_n must_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n first_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o commonwealth_n of_o some_o city_n or_o incorporation_n second_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o particular_a church_n by_o toleration_n in_o the_o first_o regard_n it_o be_v lawful_a for_o we_o to_o converse_v with_o they_o i._o for_o outward_a deal_n and_o civil_a affair_n as_o bargain_v buy_v and_o sell_v etc._n etc._n ii_o we_o may_v maintain_v outward_a civil_a peace_n with_o they_o so_o paul_n command_v the_o roman_n 12.18_o to_o have_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n so_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lay_v that_o be_v so_o far_o as_o it_o will_v stand_v with_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n iii_o in_o this_o civil_a converse_v with_o the_o wicked_a we_o must_v perform_v all_o duty_n of_o outward_a courtesy_n and_o love_n unto_o they_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o do_v not_o dishonour_n god_n or_o hinder_v the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o paul_n command_v we_o to_o be_v 3.2_o soft_a and_o courteous_a show_v all_o meekness_n unto_o all_o man_n even_o to_o evil_a man_n as_o the_o reason_n follow_v show_v 3._o for_o we_o ourselves_o be_v in_o time_n past_o unwise_a disobedient_a deceive_v etc._n etc._n and_o then_o be_v we_o evil_a second_o consider_v they_o as_o dweller_n in_o the_o church_n and_o member_n by_o permission_n and_o so_o we_o may_v live_v with_o they_o in_o it_o for_o we_o may_v not_o make_v a_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n because_o wicked_a man_n be_v permit_v therein_o christ_n live_v among_o the_o
jew_n though_o their_o teacher_n and_o ruler_n be_v both_o heretic_n and_o hypocrite_n and_o yet_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o live_v among_o they_o and_o behold_v their_o wicked_a conversation_n we_o must_v not_o approve_v of_o their_o ungodliness_n but_o be_v grieve_v for_o the_o same_o as_o righteous_a lot_n be_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o sodom_n 2._o pet._n 2.7_o further_n if_o it_o fall_v out_o by_o the_o negligence_n of_o the_o governor_n that_o evil_a man_n be_v admit_v to_o the_o sacrament_n we_o must_v not_o for_o their_o company_n refuse_v to_o communicate_v for_o our_o saviour_n christ_n live_v among_o the_o jew_n communicate_v with_o they_o in_o their_o sacrament_n and_o service_n of_o the_o temple_n though_o many_o of_o they_o be_v notorious_a both_o for_o wicked_a life_n and_o false_a doctrine_n the_o reason_n be_v for_o that_o another_o man_n evil_a conscience_n do_v not_o defile_v our_o good_a conscience_n but_o we_o may_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o action_n wherein_o the_o wicked_a be_v defile_v now_o though_o we_o may_v thus_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n yet_o these_o two_o caveat_n must_v be_v observe_v i._o to_o have_v no_o private_a company_n with_o know_v and_o open_a evil_a person_n this_o paul_n express_o forbid_v say_v i_o have_v write_v unto_o you_o 1●_n that_o you_o company_n not_o together_o that_o be_v in_o private_a and_o familiar_a manner_n ii_o we_o must_v not_o show_v special_a familiarit●●_n to_o evil_a person_n god_n will_v not_o take_v the_o wicked_a by_o the_o hand_n job._n 8.20_o and_o we_o shall_v be_v follower_n of_o god_n therefore_o s._n john_n say_v if_o any_o man_n come_v unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n 2._o john_n 9_o which_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o special_a familiarity_n for_o thereby_o we_o do_v not_o only_o perform_v outward_a duty_n to_o the_o person_n but_o also_o give_v countenance_n to_o their_o sin_n which_o in_o any_o case_n we_o must_v not_o do_v and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o to_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n hereby_o all_o those_o be_v just_o blame_v which_o fit_a themselves_o for_o the_o humour_n and_o disposition_n of_o all_o company_n use_n this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v if_o any_o be_v know_v to_o be_v open_o wicked_a either_o for_o life_n or_o opinion_n we_o must_v not_o keep_v private_a company_n with_o they_o or_o afford_v they_o our_o special_a familiarity_n but_o by_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o they_o case_v we_o of_o such_o burden_n our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v commend_v this_o church_n for_o her_o severity_n against_o the_o wicked_a in_o that_o she_o can_v not_o endure_v they_o do_v prove_v the_o same_o to_o be_v true_a by_o two_o argument_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o verse_n the_o second_o in_o the_o six_o verse_n for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v take_v from_o the_o sharp_a and_o round_o deal_n of_o this_o church_n against_o evil_a man_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n first_o her_o discovery_n of_o false_a apostle_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n second_o her_o oppose_a herself_o against_o they_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o three_o verse_n thou_o have_v suffer_v and_o have_v patience_n etc._n etc._n in_o their_o discovery_n of_o these_o false_a apostle_n note_v two_o special_a point_n first_o that_o god_n have_v give_v to_o particular_a church_n the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v this_o appear_v by_o sundry_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n 1._o cor._n 2.15_o the_o spiritual_a man_n that_o be_v be_v which_o be_v endue_v with_o god_n holy_a spirit_n discern_v all_o thing_n and_o paul_n 11.29_o assume_v that_o the_o faithful_a corinthian_n do_v discern_v the_o lord_n body_n that_o be_v see_v and_o put_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o bread_n and_o wine_n in_o that_o sacrament_n and_o other_o common_a bread_n &_o wine_n which_o none_o that_o want_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n can_v do_v again_o he_o bid_v they_o 13.5_o prove_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o they_o have_v a_o gift_n of_o discern_v whereby_o they_o do_v know_v their_o own_o estate_n whether_o they_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n or_o under_o grace_n and_o s._n john_n bid_v the_o church_n to_o 4.1_o try_v the_o spirit_n that_o be_v those_o doctrine_n which_o man_n pretend_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v teach_v and_o in_o this_o place_n this_o church_n discover_v of_o false_a apostle_n declare_v plain_o that_o she_o have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v who_o be_v send_v of_o god_n to_o teach_v his_o church_n and_o who_o not_o and_o hence_o the_o godly_a learned_a in_o the_o church_n be_v say_v to_o have_v their_o sense_n exercise_v to_o discern_v both_o good_a and_o evil_a heb._n 5.14_o and_o in_o this_o regard_n the_o church_n of_o god_n differ_v from_o all_o other_o company_n of_o man_n for_o unless_o man_n be_v of_o god_n church_n they_o want_v this_o gift_n of_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n that_o differ_v as_o true_a apostle_n and_o false_a good_a and_o bad_a truth_n and_o falsehood_n etc._n etc._n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o which_o be_v not_o use_n for_o the_o church_n can_v discern_v whether_o a_o man_n be_v a_o true_a apostle_n or_o not_o and_o by_o the_o same_o gift_n it_o may_v discern_v the_o state_n of_o any_o particular_a church_n whence_o also_o it_o follow_v that_o we_o may_v easy_o see_v whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a church_n or_o not_o it_o please_v some_o to_o call_v it_o into_o question_n as_o it_o now_o stand_v and_o they_o avouch_v that_o it_o be_v no_o church_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a minister_n no_o true_a preach_n or_o right_a administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n in_o it_o and_o that_o these_o thing_n with_o we_o be_v illusion_n of_o satan_n and_o our_o church_n his_o synagogue_n but_o that_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v thus_o prove_v the_o church_n of_o germany_n france_n scotland_n and_o italy_n that_o have_v receive_v the_o gospel_n be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o they_o have_v the_o gift_n of_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o which_o be_v not_o now_o they_o give_v the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n unto_o we_o and_o reverence_v our_o church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o god_n to_o who_o testimony_n we_o must_v rather_o cleave_v than_o to_o the_o opinion_n of_o a_o few_o private_a man_n and_o so_o resolve_v ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v scripture_n from_o that_o which_o be_v no_o scripture_n the_o papist_n say_v the_o church_n indeed_o have_v this_o gift_n but_o it_o be_v by_o counsel_n and_o commission_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o be_v a_o mere_a forgery_n for_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o can_v discern_v of_o false_a apostle_n can_v no_o doubt_n by_o the_o same_o gift_n discern_v of_o the_o booke●_n of_o god_n and_o that_o without_o counsel_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o at_o this_o time_n when_o john_n write_v it_o be_v a_o more_o famous_a church_n than_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o therefore_o go_v not_o thither_o for_o counsel_n ii_o point_n in_o what_o thing_n this_o discern_a of_o false_a apostle_n do_v consist_v it_o be_v a_o judicial_a action_n of_o the_o church_n consist_v in_o two_o thing_n here_o note_v first_o in_o examination_n of_o false_a doctrine_n and_o false_a teacher_n second_o in_o condemnation_n afterward_o the_o examination_n of_o they_o be_v set_v down_o in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o that_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o their_o condemn_a or_o sentence_n give_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n for_o the_o first_o examination_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o church_n and_o be_v here_o use_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o false_a apostle_n que._n how_o may_v any_o church_n try_v a_o false_a teacher_n answ._n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o large_a discourse_n but_o the_o head_n of_o true_a examination_n be_v these_o first_o that_o church_n or_o that_o man_n that_o will_v right_o examine_v a_o false_a teacher_n must_v prepare_v himself_o thereunto_o after_o this_o manner_n he_o must_v look_v that_o he_o have_v a_o meek_a spirit_n and_o a_o humble_a heart_n for_o god_n
his_o love_n into_o their_o heart_n whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o his_o name_n even_o with_o joy_n and_o have_v patience_n this_o be_v the_o first_o mean_n whereby_o this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o the_o false_a apostle_n they_o trouble_v she_o two_o way_n by_o persecution_n and_o by_o false_a doctrine_n now_o by_o patience_n this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o their_o persecution_n and_o indeed_o that_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a mean_n for_o any_o man_n or_o any_o church_n to_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o their_o enemy_n and_o to_o vanquish_v they_o for_o hereby_o they_o shall_v stop_v their_o mouth_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a win_v they_o to_o their_o faith_n and_o religion_n in_o this_o their_o practice_n we_o have_v a_o example_n for_o our_o direction_n use_n how_o to_o oppose_v ourselves_o against_o wicked_a man_n with_o who_o we_o live_v or_o any_o enemy_n that_o shall_v trouble_v we_o either_o by_o oppression_n or_o heretical_a doctrine_n we_o must_v not_o render_v taunt_n for_o taunt_v and_o abuse_v for_o abuse_v but_o labour_n for_o patience_n not_o in_o bear_v with_o their_o sin_n that_o may_v not_o be_v but_o in_o a_o meek_a endure_v of_o their_o injury_n and_o wrong_n whereby_o they_o trouble_v us._n thus_o shall_v we_o stop_v their_o mouth_n and_o soon_o overcome_v they_o and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v here_o christ_n set_v down_o the_o second_o mean_n whereby_o this_o church_n oppose_v herself_o against_o the_o spread_a of_o false_a doctrine_n by_o these_o false_a apostle_n which_o be_v the_o second_o way_n whereby_o they_o become_v a_o burden_n unto_o she_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n be_v this_o that_o they_o have_v take_v much_o pain_n to_o maintain_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n jesus_n labour_v therein_o as_o much_o as_o the_o false_a apostle_n do_v to_o broach_v their_o damnable_a heresy_n here_o we_o be_v teach_v a_o second_o duty_n how_o we_o be_v to_o oppose_v ourselves_o against_o all_o heretical_a and_o scismaticall_a teacher_n namely_o as_o they_o labour_v to_o publish_v their_o false_a doctrine_n so_o must_v we_o endeavour_n to_o maintain_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o his_o true_a religion_n hereunto_o a_o twofold_a labour_n be_v require_v partly_o of_o the_o minister_n and_o partly_o of_o the_o people_n the_o labour_n of_o the_o minister_n stand_v in_o these_o thing_n principal_o i._o he_o must_v endeavour_n by_o read_v and_o study_n to_o furnish_v himself_o with_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o the_o foundation_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o gospel_n &_o true_a religion_n that_o he_o may_v be_v able_a sound_o and_o plain_o to_o teach_v the_o same_o for_o this_o cause_n s._n john_n be_v command_v to_o eat_v the_o little_a book_n re._n 10.9_o 10_o which_o be_v as_o it_o be_v by_o study_n and_o meditation_n to_o have_v the_o same_o digest_v and_o settle_v in_o his_o heart_n hence_o malachi_n say_v 2.7_o the_o priest_n lip_n shall_v preserve_v wisdom_n and_o thither_o shall_v the_o people_n come_v for_o instruction_n and_o every_o scribe_n teach_v of_o god_n must_v have_v store_n in_o the_o treasury_n of_o his_o har●_n like_o a_o good_a householder_n matth._n 〈…〉_z he_o must_v deliver_v the_o whole_a will_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n concern_v salvation_n true_o and_o distinct_o unto_o his_o people_n as_o it_o be_v propound_v in_o the_o booke●_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n this_o paul_n commend_v by_o his_o own_o example_n act._n 20.27_o testify_v unto_o this_o church_n that_o he_o have_v teach_v they_o all_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o keep_v back●_n nothing_o which_o he_o be_v command_v to_o deliver_v unto_o they_o iii_o he_o must_v labour_v to_o discern_v and_o be_v able_a to_o discover_v false_a teacher_n unto_o the_o people_n that_o he_o may_v not_o only_o know_v they_o himself_o but_o also_o cause_v the_o church_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o they_o tit._n 19_o paul_n require_v that_o the_o teacher_n in_o the_o church_n be_v able_a to_o convince_v the_o gainsayer_n to_o his_o truth_n in_o this_o discovery_n he_o must_v do_v two_o thing_n first_o detect_v their_o heretical_a doctrine_n second_o their_o wicked_a manner_n thus_o deal_v our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o his_o own_o person_n live_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n with_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n he_o do_v detect_v unto_o the_o people_n their_o false_a interpretation_n of_o the_o law_n mat._n 5.21_o to_o the_o end_n and_o also_o their_o wicked_a life_n and_o damnable_a hypocrisy_n mat._n 23.3_o 4._o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n and_o saint_n paul_n in_o all_o his_o epistle_n labour_v to_o discover_v the_o wicked_a life_n and_o to_o confute_v the_o heretical_a opinion_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n iv._o he_o must_v endeavour_n that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n thus_o publish_v may_v edify_v this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o teach_n as_o paul_n show_v 1._o cor._n 14._o throughout_o the_o whole_a chapter_n now_o it_o do_v edify_v when_o it_o be_v so_o apply_v to_o the_o hearer_n that_o thereby_o they_o be_v win_v to_o christ_n suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v reform_v by_o it_o in_o heart_n and_o life_n &_o so_o make_v fit_a for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n v._o he_o must_v be_v careful_a in_o his_o own_o person_n to_o become_v a_o pattern_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o he_o teach_v that_o so_o the_o people_n may_v have_v a_o double_a light_n to_o follow_v this_o be_v a_o notable_a mean_n in_o the_o minister_n to_o make_v man_n love_v the_o gospel_n and_o the_o neglect_n hereof_o cause_v many_o to_o contemn_v and_o despise_v the_o same_o vi_o last_o he_o must_v be_v diligent_a in_o pray_v for_o his_o own_o and_o other_o particular_a church_n of_o god_n that_o they_o may_v know_v believe_v and_o obey_v the_o same_o doctrine_n which_o be_v teach_v they_o out_o of_o god_n word_n thus_o do_v paul_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o his_o particular_a epistle_n pray_v for_o every_o church_n that_o by_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o may_v embrace_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n phil._n 1.4.9_o 10._o col._n 1.9_o 10_o 11._o the_o people_n also_o for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o religion_n must_v undergo_v a_o threefold_a labour_n i._o every_o one_o must_v see_v that_o himself_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o true_a and_o sincere_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o christ_n injoin_v to_o all_o in_o this_o commandment_n repent_v and_o believe_v which_o none_o can_v do_v unless_o they_o first_o know_v and_o understand_v the_o doctrine_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o every_o one_o must_v do_v as_o mary_n do_v for_o which_o christ_n so_o commend_v she_o namely_o lay_v aside_o matter_n of_o lesser_a moment_n &_o give_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v and_o learn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n luke_n 10.39.42_o ii_o every_o one_o must_v use_v all_o good_a mean_n that_o knowledge_n of_o religion_n which_o himself_o have_v receive_v be_v convey_v to_o other_o and_o indeed_o if_o we_o true_o believe_v we_o can_v contain_v ourselves_o but_o must_v needs_o teach_v other_o for_o as_o christ_n say_v he_o 7.38_o that_o drink_v of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n out_o of_o his_o belly_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o water_n of_o life_n stream_v out_o for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o que._n how_o shall_v private_a man_n convey_v their_o knowledge_n unto_o other_o answ._n i._n all_o master_n and_o governor_n of_o family_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o teach_v those_o that_o be_v under_o they_o the_o main_a point_n and_o ground_n of_o true_a religion_n his_o place_n require_v gift_n and_o god_n look_v for_o increase_v for_o every_o christian_n family_n shall_v be_v a_o little_a church_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o house_n of_o aquila_n and_o priscilla_n 1._o corinth_n 16.19_o two_o every_o man_n in_o his_o place_n must_v labour_v to_o convey_v that_o knowledge_n he_o have_v unto_o his_o neighbour_n yea_o to_o his_o enemy_n the_o jew_n 23.15_o will_v compass_v sea_n and_o land_n to_o make_v a_o man_n a_o prosylite_n and_o idolater_n at_o this_o day_n will_v travel_v far_o and_o near_o to_o make_v a_o man_n of_o their_o profession_n much_o more_o therefore_o must_v all_o true_a christian_n labour_v to_o convey_v their_o knowledge_n to_o other_o so_o to_o win_v they_o unto_o christ._n iii_o every_o man_n be_v to_o edify_v those_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n in_o these_o three_o thing_n faith_n hope_n and_o love_n as_o jude_n notable_o exhort_v in_o the_o end_n of_o his_o epistle_n edify_v one_o another_o in_o your_o most_o holy_a faith_n verse_n 20._o have_v compassion_n of_o some_o in_o put_v difference_n and_o other_o save_v with_o fear_n in_o pull_v they_o out_o of_o the_o fire_n
of_o hart_n and_o profaneness_n of_o life_n that_o they_o be_v at_o their_o first_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n these_o must_v know_v that_o god_n judgement_n be_v on_o they_o and_o if_o they_o will_v be_v save_v they_o must_v labour_v to_o come_v out_o of_o this_o estate_n &_o endeavour_n so_o to_o hear_v with_o their_o heart_n that_o they_o may_v be_v turn_v unto_o god_n both_o in_o mind_n heart_n and_o life_n ii_o point_n the_o duty_n command_v namely_o to_o hear_v hear_v in_o scripture_n be_v not_o only_o to_o listen_v with_o the_o bodily_a ear_n but_o to_o be_v attentive_a to_o that_o which_o be_v teach_v and_o with_o attention_n to_o bring_v faith_n conversion_n and_o obedience_n every_o way_n eph._n 4.21_o 22_o the_o hear_n of_o christ_n be_v notable_o describe_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o conceive_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o mind●_n and_o to_o be_v able_a to_o utter_v it_o as_o to_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o ris●_n 〈◊〉_d newness_n of_o life_n and_o indeed_o a_o man_n do_v hear_v and_o learn_v no_o more_o of_o god_n word_n than_o he_o do_v believe_v and_o practice_v from_o whence_o we_o be_v again_o to_o be_v admonish_v that_o we_o so_o hear_v with_o attention_n that_o by_o hear_v we_o suffer_v ourselves_o to_o be_v change_v and_o that_o with_o our_o change_n we_o join_v ●are_v to_o believe_v and_o conscience_n to_o obey_v this_o i●_n that_o save_v hearing_n which_o bring_v eternal_a life_n all_o other_o hear_n do_v increase_v our_o sin_n to_o our_o further_a condemnation_n whereby_o also_o appear_v the_o fearful_a state_n of_o many_o who_o lend_v only_o the_o outward_a bodily_a ear_n to_o h●●re_v the_o word_n but_o then_o heart_n be_v not_o move_v nor_o their_o life_n change_v thereby_o iii_o point_n what_o be_v to_o be_v hear_v namely_o that_o which_o the_o spirit_n say_v ●nto_o 〈◊〉_d church_n which_o word_n must_v be_v refer_v to_o that_o which_o go_v be●ore_o &_o not_o to_o that_o which_o follow_v for_o thi●_n commandment_n belong_v to_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n which_o go_v before_o the_o promise_n follow_v rather_o concern_v the_o person_n themselves_o than_o the_o matter_n the_o thing_n then_o that_o be_v to_o be_v hear_v be_v these_o christ_n his_o sharp_a reproof_n for_o sin_n his_o threaten_n of_o punishment_n a_o remedy_n prescribe_v &_o motive_n to_o practice_v the_o same_o especial_o repentance_n for_o of_o all_o these_o christ_n speak_v before_o use_n from_o this_o that_o christ_n bid_v they_o hear_v these_o thing_n which_o concern_v their_o estate_n in_o sin_n &_o amendment_n by_o repentance_n we_o learn_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a thing_n for_o every_o church_n of_o god_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o to_o know_v and_o consider_v their_o own_o want_n and_o sin_n and_o also_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o hang_v over_o they_o for_o the_o same_o second_o that_o after_o any_o man_n or_o any_o church_n have_v consider_v of_o theri_fw-la sin_n and_o of_o god_n judgement_n it_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a thing_n to_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o true_a repentance_n if_o they_o have_v not_o repent_v and_o if_o they_o have_v repent_v to_o renew_v the_o same_o daily_a &_o do_v it_o more_o that_o so_o god_n judgement_n both_o private_a and_o common_a may_v be_v avoid_v we_o therefore_o must_v hereby_o be_v move_v to_o search_v into_o our_o own_o way_n to_o find_v out_o our_o own_o sin_n and_o to_o consider_v of_o god_n judgement_n thereby_o deserve_v that_o by_o true_a repentance_n we_o may_v turn_v unto_o god_n and_o so_o escape_v his_o fearful_a iudgement●_n further_o these_o word_n what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n contain_v 〈◊〉_d reason_n to_o move_v every_o man_n to_o hear_v i._o because_o they_o be_v speak_v 〈◊〉_d the_o spirit_n that_o be_v the_o holy_a ghost_n two_o because_o they_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v to_o one_o man_n o●_n one_o church_n alone_o but_o to_o all_o churche●_n for_o the_o first●_o it_o may_v 〈◊〉_d demand_v seein●_n christ_n sp●ke_v th●se_a word●_n how_o 〈…〉_z be_v say_v that_o the_o spirit_n speak_v the●_n ans._n both_o may_v stand_v first_o because_o all_o the_o outward_a 〈◊〉_d of_o 〈◊〉_d person_n in_o 〈◊〉_d be_v common_a to_o the_o 〈…〉_z to_o ●each_v the_o church_n be_v a_o outward_a action_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o it_o agree_v to_o the_o father_n and_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o when_o the_o father_n create_v thing_n in_o the_o beginning_n the_o son_n also_o create_v and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n create_v they_o so_o her●_n when_o the_o son_n reach_v the_o father_n teach_v and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n teach_v for_o as_o the_o three_o person_n be_v one_o in_o nature_n so_o must_v they_o be_v join_v in_o all_o outward_a action_n second_o christ_n say_v the_o spirit_n speak_v because_o he_o now_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n do_v not_o teach_v his_o church_n in_o bodily_a presence_n but_o hy_z his_o spirit_n which_o after_o his_o ascension_n he_o send_v to_o be_v their_o comforter_n and_o instructor_n here_o then_o observe_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n in_o scripture_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n appoint_v a_o judge_n to_o speak_v unto_o man_n in_o all_o matter_n of_o controversy_n which_o be_v the_o church_n because_o say_v they_o a_o judge_n must_v speak_v and_o christ_n be_v absent_a from_o his_o church_n and_o the_o word_n be_v a_o dumb_a letter_n and_o can_v speak_v therefore_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o be_v judge_n but_o they_o err_v gross_o the_o church_n can_v be_v judge_n it_o be_v but_o christ_n minister_n to_o put_v in_o execution_n that_o which_o he_o command_v christ_n therefore_o must_v be_v judge_n unto_o his_o church_n by_o scripture_n which_o be_v not_o a_o dumb_a judge_n for_o therein_o his_o spirit_n speak_v plain_o and_o sufficient_o for_o the_o resolve_v of_o any_o point_n in_o controversy_n that_o be_v needful_a in_o god_n church_n the_o second_o reason_n to_o attention_n be_v because_o these_o thing_n be_v speak_v to_o all_o church_n where_o we_o see_v that_o thing_n speak_v to_o one_o church_n agree_v to_o all_o from_o whence_o we_o must_v learn_v this_o special_a duty_n in_o read_v and_o hear_a god_n holy_a word_n namely_o to_o read_v and_o hear_v with_o applicacation_n we_o must_v not_o rest_v in_o a_o flourish_a knowledge_n of_o the_o story_n but_o apply_v every_o precept_n and_o example_n unto_o ourselves_o if_o it_o be_v a_o example_n of_o virtue_n we_o must_v apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o for_o imitation_n if_o it_o be_v a_o example_n of_o vice_n we_o must_v apply_v it_o to_o ourselves_o to_o move_v we_o to_o eschew_v and_o avoid_v the_o like_a for_o god_n will_v have_v all_o to_o learn_v that_o which_o he_o speak_v unto_o one_o and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o commandment_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n to_o wit_n a_o most_o excellent_a promise_n wherein_o consider_v two_o point_n first_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v second_o what_o be_v promise_v for_o the_o first_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v that_o be_v to_o he_o that_o in_o fight_v prevail_v against_o all_o the_o spiritual_a enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n sin_n sathan_n hell_n and_o condemnation_n there_o be_v three_o thing_n requisite_a to_o make_v a_o man_n able_a to_o overcome_v these_o enemy_n first_o he_o must_v be_v bear_v anew_o in_o christ_n of_o water_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n 1._o joh._n 5.4_o he_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n overcom_v the_o world_n so_o by_o regeneration_n he_o be_v free_v from_o the_o bondage_n of_o hell_n death_n sin_n and_o satan_n second_o he_o must_v have_v true_a faith_n by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o must_v deny_v and_o renounce_v himself_o and_o be_v whatsoever_o he_o be_v in_o the_o death_n passion_n &_o obedience_n of_o christ._n therefore_o s._n john_n say_v in_o the_o same_o place_n this_o be_v the_o victory_n which_o overcom_v the_o world_n even_o your_o faith_n for_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n by_o faith_n he_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o christ_n his_o victory_n upon_o the_o cross_n and_o by_o it_o receive_v power_n to_o subdue_v his_o own_o corruption_n the_o world_n and_o the_o devil_n three_o he_o that_o will_v overcome_v must_v keep_v faith_n that_o be_v true_a religion_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n stand_v out_o in_o life_n and_o death_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o use_n in_o this_o that_o life_n everlasting_a be_v promise_v to_o they_o that_o overcome_v first_o we_o observe_v that_o
the_o doctrine_n of_o universal_a grace_n affirm_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o life_n and_o salvation_n belong_v to_o all_o and_o every_o man_n whatsoever_o unless_o he_o will_v reject_v they_o be_v a_o device_n of_o man_n brain_n for_o life_n eternal_a be_v not_o promise_v to_o every_o man_n as_o he_o be_v a_o man_n come_v of_o adam_n but_o to_o a_o man_n as_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n by_o faith_n and_o a_o new_a creature_n the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v universal_a indeed_o to_o all_o that_o overcome_v but_o that_o be_v a_o property_n which_o restrain_v they_o whole_o to_o true_a believer_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v so_o to_o live_v that_o we_o may_v say_v true_o in_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n we_o have_v overcome_v all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o do_v continual_o stand_v conqueror_n over_o they_o this_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o endless_a joy_n &_o comfort_n which_o will_v cheer_v the_o soul_n in_o great_a distress_n but_o to_o live_v and_o lie_v in_o sin_n be_v or_o will_v be_v a_o hell_n to_o the_o conscience_n what_o avail_n the_o treasure_n &_o honour_n of_o this_o world_n to_o any_o man_n while_o his_o conscience_n shall_v tell_v he_o he_o be_v a_o vassal_n to_o sin_n and_o sathan_n for_o while_o he_o continue_v in_o that_o estate_n he_o be_v out_o of_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o have_v no_o part_n nor_o portion_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n therefore_o it_o stand_v we_o upon_o to_o labour_v to_o feel_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o certain_a evidence_n of_o this_o victory_n over_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n by_o the_o sure_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n the_o second_o point_n be_v the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n life_n everlasting_a note_v by_o this_o gift_n to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n and_o it_o be_v set_v out_o unto_o we_o by_o two_o circumstance_n first_o by_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o second_o by_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v to_o be_v find_v the_o cause_n be_v christ_n jesus_n i_o will_v give_v to_o he_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n where_o he_o make_v a_o opposition_n between_o himself_o and_o the_o first_o adam_n the_o first_o adam_n sin_v and_o thereby_o cast_v himself_o with_o all_o his_o posterity_n out_o of_o the_o earthly_a paradise_n and_o lose_v the_o benefit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n but_o christ_n the_o second_o adam_n come_v and_o suffer_v for_o sin_n and_o thereby_o open_v the_o way_n to_o a_o better_a paradise_n than_o the_o first_o adam_n lose_v and_o to_o all_o that_o overcome_v he_o give_v liberty_n to_o enter_v in_o and_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n the_o tree_n of_o life_n proper_o be_v a_o tree_n place_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o earthy_a paradise_n and_o it_o be_v so_o call_v first_o because_o it_o be_v a_o pledge_n and_o sacrament_n unto_o adam_n that_o he_o shall_v live_v for_o ever_o if_o he_o continue_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n second_o because_o it_o have_v in_o it_o as_o may_v be_v prove_v virtue_n and_o power_n whereby_o it_o will_v have_v preserve_v he_o from_o death_n and_o old_a age_n for_o ever_o if_o he_o have_v stand_v in_o his_o innocence_n this_o earthly_a tree_n of_o life_n be_v a_o figure_n and_o sign_n of_o christ_n our_o saviour_n and_o mediator_n who_o live_v a_o eternal_a spiritual_a life_n not_o only_o as_o he_o be_v god_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n and_o that_o not_o for_o himself_o alone_o but_o for_o this_o end_n that_o h●e_v may_v convey_v quicken_a spiritual_a life_n to_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o term_v himself_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n further_o he_o say_v he_o will_v give_v hereof_o to_o eat_v to_o eat_v sometime_o signify_v to_o believe_v john_n 6.50_o but_o it_o can_v hear_v be_v so_o take_v for_o faith_n end_v with_o this_o life_n and_o have_v no_o use_n afterward_o therefore_o to_o eat_v in_o this_o place_n signify_v to_o have_v immediate_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n in_o heaven_n where_o christ_n shall_v be_v unto_o he_o a_o tree_n of_o life_n to_o make_v he_o live_v for_o ever_o in_o this_o promise_n note_v two_o point_n i._o in_o what_o thing_n eternal_a life_n consist_v namely_o in_o immediate_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o heaven_n second_o that_o life_n eternal_a stand_v not_o in_o outward_a mean_n as_o meat_n drink_n clothing_n physic_n recreation_n sleep_n and_o such_o like_a but_o in_o a_o immediate_a partake_n with_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o blessing_n so_o that_o when_o christ_n be_v all_o in_o all_o unto_o we_o immediate_o then_o do_v we_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n and_o thereby_o shall_v live_v eternal_o ii_o circum_v the_o place_n where_o eternal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v have_v be_v in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v the_o three_o heaven_n a_o place_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v manifest_v himself_o in_o his_o glorious_a majesty_n and_o which_o he_o have_v prepare_v for_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o his_o elect_a hereof_o christ_n speak_v to_o the_o the●fe_n on_o the_o cross_n say_v this_o day_n thou_o shall_v be_v with_o i_o in_o paradise_n luk._n 23.43_o and_o hither_o be_v paul_n wrap_v in_o vision_n and_o see_v and_o hear_v thing_n that_o can_v be_v utter_v 12._o and_o he_o call_v it_o the_o three_o heaven_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o heaven_n under_o it_o for_o the_o place_n wherein_o we_o breath_n be_v the_o first_o heaven_n the_o starry_a firmament_n be_v the_o second_o heaven_n and_o this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v the_o three_o which_o be_v therefore_o call_v paradise_n because_o it_o be_v a_o place_n of_o endless_a joy_n and_o pleasure_n and_o the_o add_v of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n do_v not_o only_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o it_o and_o adam_n earthly_a paradise_n but_o also_o show_v it_o to_o be_v a_o great_a and_o most_o excellent_a place_n so_o rabel_n say_v i_o have_v wrestle_v with_o my_o sister_n 8._o the_o wrestle_n of_o god_n that_o be_v strong_a wrestle_n and_o in_o the_o psalm_n the_o mountain_n of_o god_n do_v signify_v high_a and_o mighty_a mountain_n and_o that_o this_o paradise_n be_v such_o a_o excellent_a place_n appear_v at_o large_a revel_v 22._o for_o therein_o must_v come_v none_o unclean_a thing_n but_o the_o saint_n and_o angel_n do_v there_o enjoy_v the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o behold_v his_o glory_n so_o much_o as_o the_o creature_n be_v able_a to_o comprehend_v there_o god_n communicate_v himself_o to_o all_o the_o elect_a and_o become_v all_o thing_n unto_o the●_n immediate_o so_o that_o this_o must_v needs_o be●●_n place_n of_o all_o joy_n and_o comfort_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o place_n in_o this_o heavenly_a paradise_n for_o why_o shall_v we_o set_v our_o heart●_n upon_o the_o vain_a glory_n of_o this_o world_n which_o pass_v away_o as_o a_o shadow_n and_o come_v to_o nothing_o and_o in_o the_o end_n be_v but_o labour_n and_o sorrow_n when_o we_o have_v all_o that_o the_o world_n can_v afford_v but_o the_o joy_n and_o glory_n of_o this_o paradise_n of_o god_n be_v endless_a and_o unspeakable_a let_v we_o therefore_o deny_v ourselves_o depend_v upon_o christ_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o first_o epistle_n verse_n 8._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o smirnian_o write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a in_o this_o verse_n and_o the_o rest_n that_o follow_v to_o the_o twelve_o i●_n lay_v down_o the_o second_o letter_n or_o epistle_n of_o christ_n to_o another_o church_n of_o asia_n call_v smyrna_n before_o the_o epistle_n christ_n give_v a_o second_o particular_a commandment_n unto_o john_n touch_v the_o writing_n hereof_o unto_o this_o church_n in_o these_o word_n and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o smirnian_o write_v which_o be_v prefix_v to_o this_o epistle_n that_o this_o church_n and_o all_o other_o church_n of_o god_n may_v be_v assure_v that_o 〈◊〉_d have_v sufficient_a warrant_n and_o call_n for_o the_o write_n hereof_o which_o thing_n be_v necessary_a to_o every_o penman_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o the_o church_n need_v not_o to_o doubt_v of_o the_o authority_n of_o scripture_n but_o receive_v the_o same_o as_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o all_o ordinary_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n must_v have_v warrant_n and_o call_n for_o every_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v in_o god_n church_n use_n for_o the_o
apostle_n that_o be_v extraordinary_a man_n of_o mo●e_n excellent_a gift_n may_v do_v nothing_o without_o warrant_n of_o the_o part_n of_o this_o commandment_n we_o speak_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n the_o epistle_n itself_o follow_v contain_v thr●e_a part_n a_o preface_n a_o proposition_n and_o a_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n contain_v a_o preparation_n to_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v ●e_n that_o be_v the_o first_o to_o 〈◊〉_d last_n which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a in_o this_o preface_n he_o show_v in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v unto_o this_o church_n namely_o in_o christ_n name_n which_o he_o set_v down_o for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o stir_v up_o the_o people_n in_o this_o church_n to_o a_o religious_a attention_n and_o a_o reverend_a care_n of_o receive_v the_o thing_n therein_o write_v as_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o christ_n jesus_n second_o because_o no_o commandment_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o religion_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v from_o any_o creature_n but_o from_o christ_n alone_o and_o therefore_o this_o epistle_n concern_v the_o true_a worship_n and_o religion_n of_o god_n be_v propound_v in_o his_o name_n alone_o in_o this_o preface_n christ_n be_v describe_v by_o two_o notable_a argument_n first_o to_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o second_o that_o he_o be_v dead_a but_o be_v alive_a the_o meaning_n of_o they_o both_o be_v show_v in_o the_o 17_o and_o 18_o verse_n of_o the_o former_a chapter_n whence_o they_o be_v borrow_v by_o the_o first_o christ_n will_v signify_v that_o he_o be_v everliving_a god_n without_o beginning_n or_o end_v before_o all_o creature_n and_o after_o they_o by_o the_o second_o that_o he_o be_v true_a man_n and_o assume_v man_n nature_n to_o suffer_v death_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o rise_v again_o to_o live_v for_o ever_o and_o to_o give_v to_o man_n eternal_a life_n in_o this_o description_n two_o point_n of_o doctrine_n be_v express_v i._o that_o christ_n be_v a_o person_n consist_v of_o two_o nature_n godhead_n and_o manhood_n he_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o therefore_o god_n he_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a and_o therefore_o be_v true_a man_n if_o any_o ask_v how_o one_o person_n can_v consist_v of_o two_o nature_n answ._n as_o body_n and_o soul_n concur_v to_o make_v one_o man_n so_o the_o godhead_n and_o manhood_n of_o christ_n concur_v to_o make_v one_o christ_n and_o therefore_o be_v unite_v ii_o doctr._n here_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o true_a comfort_n unto_o god_n church_n and_o people_n in_o any_o misery_n or_o affliction_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o point_n first_o that_o christ_n be_v able_a to_o help_v they_o in_o any_o misery_n either_o by_o free_v they_o quite_o from_o it_o or_o ease_v they_o in_o it_o see_v he_o be_v god_n the_o first_o and_o last_o second_o that_o as_o he_o be_v able_a so_o he_o be_v willing_a and_o ready_a to_o help_v they_o for_o he_o be_v man_n who_o take_v on_o he_o our_o nature_n die_v for_o we_o and_o rise_v again_o unto_o life_n to_o give_v to_o we_o eternal_a life_n this_o be_v the_o very_a scope_n and_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n thus_o describe_v himself_o to_o this_o church_n that_o be_v in_o affliction_n here_o than_o we_o have_v direction_n where_o and_o whence_o to_o seek_v for_o true_a comfort_n 〈…〉_z tribulation_n of_o this_o life_n namely_o we_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o christ_n and_o in_o he_o consider_v both_o his_o ability_n and_o his_o willingness_n to_o ●ase_v all_o 〈◊〉_d child_n in_o affliction_n and_o by_o these_o we_o must_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o despair_n and_o against_o immoderate_a grief●_n and_o sorrow_n under_o the_o cross_n verse_n 9_o i_o kn●●_n thy_o work_n and_o tribulation_n and_o 〈◊〉_d but_o th●●_n ar●_n 〈◊〉_d and_o i_o know_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n 〈…〉_z but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n here_o begin_v the_o proposition_n of_o this_o epistle_n contain_v the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o whole_a epistle_n this_o proposition_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n and_o counsel_n how_o to_o behave_v 〈◊〉_d self_n in_o the_o time_n to_o come_v the_o commendation_n be_v in_o this_o nine_o verse_n wherewithal_o be_v mingle_v some_o comfort_n unto_o this_o church_n be_v in_o affliction_n i_o kn●w_v thy_o work●●_n these_o word●_n be_v handle_v in_o the_o former_a epistle_n the_o meaning_n brief_o be_v this_o i_o know_v all_o thy_o deal_n &_o thy_o way_n i_o know_v the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o thy_o life_n and_o i_o do_v withal_o well_o like_o and_o approve_v of_o they_o here_o christ_n set_v down_o a_o excellent_a property_n touch_v himself_o namely_o that_o he_o see_v and_o know_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o nothing_o be_v hide_v from_o he_o and_o that_o this_o church_n may_v be_v resolve_v hereof_o he_o repeat_v this_o unto_o they_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n neither_o be_v it_o any_o vain_a repetition_n be_v indeed_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o true_a piety_n and_o sincere_a obedience_n we_o therefore_o in_o a_o our_o affair_n be_v here_o teach_v to_o labour_n to_o be_v full_o resolve_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o christ_n be_v with_o we_o and_o see_v we_o and_o know_v the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o our_o way_n in_o thought_n word_n and_o ●●eds_o david_n have_v learn_v this_o when_o as_o he_o say_v 〈…〉_z thou_o know_v my_o sit_n and_o my_o rise_n thou_o understand_v my_o thought_n a_o far_o off_o thou_o compasse_v my_o path_n and_o my_o lie_v down_o and_o be_v accustom_v unto_o all_o my_o way_n there_o be_v not_o a_o word_n in_o my_o tongue_n but_o thou_o know_v it_o whole_o this_o persuasion_n be_v very_o necessary_a for_o it_o will_v move_v a_o man_n to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n and_o of_o his_o whole_a behaviour_n but_o where_o this_o persuasion_n be_v want_v there_o be_v no_o religion_n in_o the_o heart_n nor_o good_a behaviour_n in_o the_o life_n when_o this_o take_v place_n religion_n begin_v and_o increase_v with_o it_o so_o do_v good_a conscience_n and_o true_a obedience_n for_o he_o that_o have_v the_o lord_n always_o before_o he_o will_v not_o great_o fall_v psal._n 16.8_o and_o tribulation_n mark_v here_o how_o work_n that_o be_v a_o godly_a conversation_n and_o tribulation_n go_v together_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o god_n will_v have_v tribulation_n join_v with_o his_o grace_n where_o he_o bestow_v his_o grace_n there_o also_o he_o lay_v tribulation_n and_o that_o for_o weighty_a cause_n as_o to_o humble_v they_o for_o their_o sin_n past_a to_o make_v trial_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o to_o prevent_v in_o they_o sin_n to_o come_v the_o consideration_n whereof_o must_v move_v all_o god_n child_n in_o this_o our_o church_n to_o look_v for_o some_o tribulation_n for_o god_n have_v bestow_v among_o we_o plenty_n of_o his_o grace_n with_o long_a peace_n and_o many_o outward_a blessing_n and_o his_o will_n be_v that_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n shall_v accompany_v the_o same_o further_o christ_n say_v i_o know_v thy_o tribulation_n will_v hereby_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v true_a it_o be_v thou_o be_v in_o great_a trouble_n but_o it_o come_v not_o by_o chance_n but_o by_o the_o special_a providence_n of_o my_o father_n and_o i_o do_v know_v and_o regard_v the_o same_o psal._n 113.6_o 7_o the_o raise_n up_o of_o the_o poor_a and_o needy_a be_v make_v a_o fruit_n of_o god_n behold_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v do_v upon_o the_o earth_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a comfort_n for_o any_o church_n or_o people_n that_o be_v in_o affliction_n for_o when_o they_o shall_v know_v that_o beside_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n therein_o christ_n jesus_n regard_v their_o sorrow_n this_o must_v needs_o arm_v they_o with_o long_a suffering_n and_o joyfulness_n we_o in_o this_o church_n as_o have_v be_v show_v may_v persuade_v ourselves_o that_o god_n will_v send_v tribulation_n among_o we_o now_o when_o they_o come_v what_o shall_v we_o do_v shall_v we_o sink_v under_o they_o no_o but_o we_o must_v now_o forecast_v to_o use_v the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v stay_v our_o heart_n under_o the_o smart_n and_o burden_n of_o they_o that_o be_v by_o settle_v our_o heart_n in_o this_o persuasion_n that_o christ_n see_v our_o affliction_n and_o withal_o have_v special_a care_n to_o comfort_n or_o deliver_v we_o as_o he_o see_v most_o for_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o our_o soule●_n in_o the_o next_o word_v christ_n set_v down_o two_o kind_n of_o tribulation_n in_o this_o church_n poverty_n and_o reproach_n by_o poverty_n he_o mean_v want_n of_o temporal_a thing_n to_o maintain_v this_o
natural_a life_n where_o observe_v sundry_a thing_n i._o that_o true_a religion_n and_o piety_n will_v not_o free_v any_o from_o outward_a poverty_n the_o religion_n of_o this_o church_n be_v excellent_a and_o yet_o they_o be_v in_o want_n and_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n think_v because_o he_o be_v godly_a he_o shall_v be_v rich_a or_o not_o fall_v into_o poverty_n if_o it_o be_v say_v ●_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n not_o only_o of_o the_o life_n to_o come_v but_o also_o of_o this_o life_n that_o be_v of_o earthly_a blessing_n and_o riches_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a but_o yet_o with_o difference_n eternal_a blessing_n only_o be_v promise_v absolute_o and_o temporal_a blessing_n with_o restraint_n namely_o if_o they_o serve_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o child_n otherwise_o they_o must_v want_v as_o this_o church_n do_v ii_o the_o lord_n will_v comfort_v this_o church_n in_o her_o poverty_n by_o say_v that_o he_o know_v it_o and_o regard_v it_o where_o we_o see_v a_o mean_n to_o comfort_v all_o those_o that_o be_v in_o want_n of_o outward_a blessing_n they_o must_v consider_v that_o christ_n see_v &_o observe_v their_o want_n whatsoever_o and_o if_o they_o be_v his_o servant_n he_o will_v free_v they_o from_o it_o so_o it_o be_v for_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o their_o soul_n or_o else_o arm_v they_o with_o patience_n to_o bear_v it_o if_o they_o pray_v unto_o he_o iii_o christ_n here_o approve_v of_o work_n where_o he_o acknowledge_v poverty_n so_o that_o good_a work_n and_o poverty_n may_v stand_v together_o and_o therefore_o good_a work_n do_v not_o consist_v only_o in_o large_a a●mes_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n will_v have_v it_o though_o these_o have_v due_a reward_n and_o praise_n in_o their_o place_n but_o every_o work_n of_o a_o man_n lawful_a call_n do_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n with_o a_o honest_a heart_n from_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o for_o god_n glory_n be_v a_o good_a work_n be_v the_o calling_n never_o so_o base_a thus_o may_v the_o shepherd_n please_v god_n in_o his_o call_n as_o well_o as_o the_o magistrate_n or_o minister_n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o work_n that_o commend_v it_o unto_o god_n but_o the_o manner_n of_o do_v but_o thou_o be_v rich_a here_o christ_n intend_v both_o to_o praise_v and_o to_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v notwithstanding_o thy_o outward_a poverty_n yet_o thou_o be_v rich_a in_o god_n 〈◊〉_d luke_n 12.21_o man_n be_v rich_a in_o god_n in_o two_o respect_n i._o when_o they_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 8_o 9_o christ_n become_v poor_a for_o our_o sake_n that_o we_o through_o his_o poverty_n may_v be_v make_v rich_a that_o be_v that_o we_o may_v have_v the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o be_v receive_v into_o god_n favour_n hereupon_o david_n call_v the_o lord_n his_o portion_n and_o his_o cup._n and_o durable_a riches_n and_o righteousness_n be_v with_o wisdom_n proverb_n 8.18_o ii_o when_o they_o receive_v his_o grace_n whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o good_a work_n both_o in_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n of_o this_o paul_n speak_v when_o he_o exhort_v rich_a man_n to_o be_v rich_a in_o good_a work_n and_o to_o lay_v up_o for_o themselves_o a_o good_a foundation_n against_o the_o time_n to_o come_v 1._o tim._n 6.16_o in_o this_o commendation_n sundry_a duty_n be_v to_o be_v learn_v i._o poor_a man_n be_v here_o teach_v see_v god_n deny_v unto_o they_o earthly_a riches_n and_o wealth_n to_o labour_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o god_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o he_o in_o christ_n and_o to_o get_v such_o grace_n that_o they_o may_v do_v good_a duty_n both_o unto_o god_n and_o man_n in_o faith_n and_o with_o a_o good_a conscience_n ii_o rich_a man_n on_o who_o god_n bestow_v outward_a wealth_n must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o embrace_v paul_n charge_n 1._o tim._n 6.17_o 18_o above_o all_o thing_n seek_v for_o true_a riches_n in_o the_o live_a god_n and_o not_o suffer_v these_o outward_a blessing_n to_o puff_n up_o their_o mind_n but_o use_v they_o as_o mean_n to_o make_v they_o rich_a in_o god_n by_o get_v god_n grace_n do_v good_a work_n and_o distribute_v to_o the_o poor_a this_o admonition_n be_v most_o necessary_a for_o though_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n grace_n be_v not_o deny_v unto_o the_o rich_a yet_o sure_o it_o be_v riches_n do_v choke_v the_o seed_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o hinder_v the_o care_n man_n ought_v to_o have_v for_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o hence_o it_o come_v that_o more_o of_o the_o poor_a sort_n receive_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n than_o of_o the_o rich_a iii_o herein_o behold_v the_o madness_n of_o the_o world_n for_o the_o most_o man_n great_a labour_n and_o care_n be_v after_o worldly_a wealth_n and_o honour_n never_o regard_v the_o true_a treasure_n of_o god_n grace_n which_o will_v commend_v they_o unto_o god_n when_o the_o other_o must_v perish_v and_o the_o wicked_a owner_n thereof_o let_v we_o therefore_o judge_v as_o christ_n do_v of_o true_a riches_n and_o according_o labour_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o his_o ●igh●_n the_o second_o part_n of_o their_o tribulation_n be_v the_o reproach_n and_o blasphemy_n of_o their_o enemy_n in_o these_o word_n i_o kn●w_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o etc._n etc._n that_o be_v i_o know_v the_o grievous_a slander_n and_o revile_n which_o thy_o enemy_n fasten_v upon_o thou_o for_o blasphemy_n signify_v not_o only_a speech_n of_o disgrace_n against_o god_n but_o also_o against_o man_n as_o na●●●b_n be_v accuse_v 1._o king_n 21.10_o to_o 〈◊〉_d blaspheme_v god_n and_o the_o king_n and_o of_o this_o paul_n say_v when_o we_o be_v re●●led_v we_o blesse●_n when_o we_o be_v blaspheme_v we_o pray_v 1._o cor._n 4.12_o 13._o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o all_o church_n and_o man_n that_o desire_v true_o to_o serve_v god_n and_o to_o keep_v good_a conscience_n must_v look_v for_o slander_n and_o revile_n neither_o must_v this_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o for_o christ_n have_v say_v it_o must_v be_v so_o nay_o rather_o they_o may_v marvel_v if_o they_o shall_v suffer_v no_o reproach_n for_o christ_n sake_n see_v he_o have_v say_v curse_v be_v you_o when_o all_o man_n speak_v well_o of_o you_o luke_n 6.26_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o grievous_a thing_n to_o be_v so_o evil_o reward_v for_o well_o do_v but_o this_o must_v be_v their_o comfort_n and_o ground_n of_o patience_n that_o christ_n hear_v and_o know_v every_o reproach_n and_o will_v in_o his_o good_a time_n remedy_v the_o same_o the_o person_n which_o blaspheme_v this_o church_n be_v thus_o describe_v which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n as_o in_o other_o famous_a city_n so_o in_o smyrna_n dwell_v some_o of_o the_o jew_n who_o have_v their_o synagogue_n that_o be_v such_o place_n of_o assembly_n where_o they_o serve_v god_n after_o their_o manner_n and_o though_o they_o deny_v christ_n yet_o they_o think_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n in_o all_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o do_v blaspheme_v and_o rail_v upon_o the_o christian_n that_o believe_v in_o christ._n and_o of_o these_o christ_n say_v though_o by_o birth_n they_o be_v jew_n yet_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o the_o israel_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o true_a worshipper_n as_o they_o account_v themselves_o whereby_o in_o general_a we_o may_v see_v from_o who_o come_v rail_n and_o reproach_n on_o god_n servant_n namely_o from_o those_o which_o say_v they_o be_v true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n and_o be_v not_o for_o he_o be_v not_o a_o jew_n that_o be_v 〈◊〉_d outwardpunc_fw-la rom._n 2.28_o he_o therefore_o that_o slander_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o to_o his_o servant_n for_o no_o friend_n of_o christ_n can_v possible_o speak_v evil_a of_o his_o gospel_n and_o religion_n this_o shall_v be_v consider_v for_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o godly_a because_o they_o that_o endeavour_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o sincerity_n be_v of_o all_o man_n most_o subject_a to_o reproach_n he_o that_o refrain_v from_o evil_a make_v himself_o a_o prey_n isaiah_n 59_o 1●_n touch_v these_o jew_n two_o point_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v i._n what_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o opinion_n ii_o what_o they_o be_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o christ._n for_o the_o first_o because_o they_o be_v jew_n by_o birth_n descend_v from_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n god_n ancient_a servant_n therefore_o they_o think_v themselves_o the_o only_a true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n as_o their_o forefather_n be_v and_o
by_o the_o name_n of_o counsel_n first_o ●ere_z note_z that_o christ_n commend_v this_o church_n and_o give_v her_o counsel_n but_o do_v not_o at_o all_o rebuke_n she_o for_o her_o fault_n as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n hence_o the_o papist_n gather_v that_o god_n church_n and_o so_o the_o member_n thereof_o may_v live_v without_o sin_n and_o fulfil_v the_o law_n but_o they_o be_v deceive_v christ_n therefore_o abstain_v from_o reproof_n of_o this_o church_n not_o for_o that_o he_o have_v not_o any_o thing_n against_o they_o but_o for_o these_o two_o cause_n especial_o first_o because_o this_o church_n of_o smyrna_n do_v true_o repent_v and_o believe_v and_o do_v not_o decay_v in_o grace_n as_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n do_v and_o therefore_o have_v the_o pardon_n of_o her_o sin_n and_o be_v in_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n second_o this_o church_n do_v endeavour_n to_o obey_v christ_n and_o to_o testify_v her_o faith_n and_o love_n thereby_o now_o god_n accept_v the_o desire_n and_o will_n of_o obedience_n in_o his_o child_n as_o obedience_n itself_o and_o therefore_o do_v not_o reprove_v they_o for_o any_o fault_n that_o be_v among_o they_o see_v this_o church_n be_v in_o affliction_n be_v so_o far_o forth_o accept_v that_o christ_n reprove_v nothing_o in_o she_o we_o be_v teach_v it_o be_v profitable_a for_o god_n church_n and_o people_n sometime_o to_o be_v in_o affliction_n for_o thereby_o be_v the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n preserve_v as_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o many_o grievous_a sin_n prevent_v which_o otherwise_o god_n child_n may_v fall_v into_o the_o counsel_n itself_o contain_v three_o part_n a_o precept_n a_o pprophecy_n and_o a_o precept_n again_o the_o first_o precept_n be_v in_o these_o word_n fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v this_o precept_n may_v seem_v to_o be_v against_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n as_o phil._n 2.12_o work_v out_o your_o salvation_n in_o fear_n and_o tremble_a and_o rom._n 11.20_o ●e_v not_o high_o mind_v but_o fear_n answ._n there_o be_v three_o kind_n of_o fear_n i._o natural_a fear_n ii_o fear_n proceed_v from_o grace_n iii_o a_o distrustful_a fearful_a proceed_n from_o unbelief_n i._o the_o natural_a fear_n be_v a_o decline_a and_o eschew_v of_o death_n and_o those_o thing_n that_o tend_v thereto_o this_o fear_n be_v in_o all_o man_n in_o as_o much_o as_o every_o thing_n desire_v to_o preserve_v itself_o this_o be_v in_o christ_n who_o in_o his_o agony_n fear_v death_n as_o it_o be_v a_o separation_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n asunder_o yet_o this_o be_v no_o sin_n in_o he_o but_o only_o a_o infirmity_n without_o sin_n the_o second_o kind_n of_o fear_n be_v that_o which_o come_v from_o grace_n mal._n 1.6_o if_o i_o be_v a_o master_n where_o be_v my_o ●onor_n if_o i_o be_v a_o father_n where_o be_v my_o fear_n this_o fear_n be_v a_o reverend_a awe_n towards_o god_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o judgement_n and_o this_o be_v a_o virtue_n and_o no_o sin_n the_o three_o be_v distrustful_a fear_n when_o man_n for_o affliction_n forsake_v religion_n and_o obedience_n to_o god_n stand_v more_o in_o fear_n of_o man_n than_o of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v that_o fear_n which_o christ_n in_o this_o place_n forbid_v be_v a_o sin_n that_o draw_v man_n from_o god_n unto_o perdition_n in_o this_o commandment_n christ_n do_v two_o thing_n first_o he_o give_v they_o and_o we_o to_o understand_v what_o be_v the_o sin_n in_o which_o every_o man_n be_v conceive_v and_o the_o seed_n whereof_o remain_v still_o in_o the_o child_n of_o god_n namely_o distrustful_a unbelief_n whereby_o man_n fear_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o creature_n more_o than_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n which_o proceed_v from_o this_o that_o man_n consider_v not_o of_o god_n as_o he_o extend_v his_o providence_n over_o all_o thing_n and_o as_o he_o be_v a_o mighty_a judge_n take_v revenge_n upon_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n second_o here_o christ_n describe_v the_o mean_n whereby_o god_n people_n may_v arm_v themselves_o against_o all_o peril_n and_o trouble_n whatsoever_o to_o wit_n christian_a fortitude_n which_o be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n proceed_v from_o true_a faith_n enable_v a_o man_n to_o lay_v aside_o all_o fear_n and_o with_o courage_n to_o undergo_v all_o danger_n whatsoever_o that_o he_o may_v in_o life_n and_o death_n maintain_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n this_o virtue_n god_n prescribe_v to_o the_o prophet_n when_o they_o be_v to_o enter_v into_o their_o call_n and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o his_o apostle_n and_o to_o this_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v speak_v unto_o their_o people_n as_o christ_n speak_v unto_o this_o church_n fear_v not_o but_o the_o truth_n be_v if_o they_o deal_v faithful_o they_o must_v change_v their_o note_n and_o say_v with_o joell_n 1●.15_n wail_v and_o howl_v you_o priest_n and_o people_n lie_v in_o sackcloth_n and_o ash_n because_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n vengeance_n be_v at_o hand_n for_o it_o be_v lamentable_a to_o see_v the_o state_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o our_o people_n of_o who_o we_o may_v general_o say_v with_o the_o prophet_n ●_o there_o be_v no_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o the_o land_n and_o where_o knowledge_n be_v there_o be_v little_a conscience_n to_o live_v thereafter_o consider_v also_o how_o the_o most_o be_v carnal_a mind_v dead_a in_o sin_n they_o savour_v not_o th●_n thing_n that_o pertain_v to_o god_n kingdom_n but_o their_o heart_n be_v whole_o possess_v with_o earthly_a desire_n &_o delight_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n affect_v they_o not_o yea_o in_o all_o place_n we_o shall_v see_v that_o as_o natural_a sleep_n wrap_v up_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o body_n so_o a_o spiritual_a slumber_n benumb_v their_o mind_n and_o heart_n for_o though_o god_n preach_v daily_o unto_o we_o by_o his_o judgement_n yet_o like_o the_o old_a world_n we_o know_v nothing_o of_o the_o evil_a day_n we_o never_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o judgement_n to_o come_v and_o if_o herunto_o we_o join_v the_o common_a cry_a sin_n of_o this_o land_n as_o swear_v curse_a oppression_n sabbath_n break_v drunkenness_n whoredom_n and_o all_o uncleanness_n yea_o atheism_n itself_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o how_o can_v we_o say_v with_o christ_n fear_v not_o yea_o rather_o we_o must_v call_v man_n to_o repentance_n in_o sackcloth_n and_o ash_n for_o god_n be_v jealous_a of_o his_o glory_n neither_o will_v he_o always_o be_v chide_v nor_o wink_v at_o our_o iniquity_n he_o have_v whet_v his_o sword_n and_o bend_v his_o bow_n and_o unless_o we_o repent_v the_o day_n of_o havoc_n will_v come_v short_o wherein_o he_o will_v take_v vengeance_n upon_o all_o our_o iniquity_n and_o although_o this_o be_v the_o common_a state_n of_o our_o land_n yet_o christ_n have_v his_o remnant_n among_o we_o who_o mourn_n for_o the_o sin_n and_o abomination_n of_o the_o time_n and_o do_v endeavour_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o these_o it_o may_v be_v say_v fear_v not_o but_o take_v to_o yourselves_o christian_n courage_n &_o arm_v yourselves_o therewith_o lay_v aside_o all_o distrustful_a fear_n and_o glorify_v god_n in_o your_o heart_n strive_v to_o keep_v the_o faith_n in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o so_o shall_v christ_n appear_v to_o your_o joy_n when_o the_o wicked_a shall_v be_v ashamed_a 66.5_o and_o to_o move_v god_n child_n to_o this_o christian_n fortitude_n first_o let_v they_o consider_v what_o a_o judgement_n of_o god_n be_v due_a unto_o they_o that_o be_v distrustful_o fearful_a when_o they_o shall_v suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n revel_v 21.8_o they_o must_v have_v their_o reward_n in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n among_o the_o damn_a second_o let_v they_o observe_v the_o lord_n presence_n and_o his_o gracious_a promise_n of_o protection_n in_o distress_n 14.7_o he_o will_v cause_v his_o angel_n to_o pitch_v their_o tent_n about_o they_o that_o no_o peril_n shall_v hurt_v they_o 2._o king_n 6._o when_o a_o mighty_a army_n come_v against_o elisha_n his_o servant_n be_v fore_o afraid_a but_o mark_v how_o he_o comfort_v he_o 16._o fear_v not_o say_v he_o for_o they_o that_o be_v with_o we_o be_v more_o than_o they_o that_o be_v with_o they_o and_o so_o it_o be_v with_o god_n child_n three_o let_v they_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o honourable_a estate_n to_o suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ._n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v exceed_o when_o they_o have_v be_v beat_v 5.41_o that_o they_o be_v count_v worthy_a to_o suffer_v any_o
sin_n in_o they_o these_o thing_n we_o shall_v often_o think_v of_o and_o bless_v god_n name_n for_o ever_o that_o by_o his_o providence_n he_o do_v master_n satan_n power_n &_o malice_n and_o so_o dispose_v of_o all_o action_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o they_o tend_v to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n this_o must_v also_o teach_v we_o to_o renounce_v ourselves_o and_o to_o put_v all_o our_o trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o christ_n his_o providence_n make_v that_o our_o comfort_n our_o stay_n and_o protection_n in_o all_o distress_n again_o whereas_o the_o end_n of_o affliction_n in_o god_n church_n be_v the_o trial_n of_o faith_n &_o other_o grace_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v many_o thing_n first_o to_o labour_v to_o have_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o power_n of_o godliness_n in_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o form_n and_o show_v thereof_o in_o a_o naked_a profession_n only_o for_o we_o must_v be_v cast_v into_o the_o fiery_a trial_n of_o affliction_n to_o see_v what_o be_v in_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n show_v will_v not_o serve_v the_o turn_n nor_o stand_v we_o in_o ste●d_n trial_n and_o affliction_n will_v consume_v they_o as_o the_o fire_n do_v dross_n and_o stubble_n second_o to_o be_v joyful_a and_o glad_a when_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o call_v we_o to_o suffer_v for_o his_o sake_n because_o this_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o make_v know_v good_a grace_n in_o our_o heart_n james_n 1.2_o brethren_n count_v it_o exceed_v great_a joy_n when_o you_o fall_v into_o diverse_a affliction_n know_v that_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n bring_v forth_o patience_n v._o argument_n the_o time_n of_o their_o continuance_n in_o affliction_n be_v for_o ten_o day_n by_o which_o some_o understand_v a_o long_a time_n according_a unto_o that_o which_o jacob_n say_v to_o laban_n 41._o thou_o have_v change_v my_o wage_n ten_o time_n that_o be_v often_o and_o so_o the_o israelit_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n 14.22_o ten_o time_n against_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v many_o time_n but_o this_o exposition_n will_v not_o so_o fit_o stand_v in_o this_o place_n for_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n but_o what_o comfort_n can_v this_o be_v to_o say_v they_o shall_v be_v so_o long_o in_o affliction_n other_o expound_v ten_o day_n to_o be_v ten_o year_n and_o so_o the_o word_n day_n be_v sometime_o use_v to_o betoken_v year_n for_o in_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v year_n of_o day_n as_o well_o as_o year_n of_o week_n but_o though_o this_o exposition_n may_v well_o stand_v with_o the_o word_n yet_o none_o can_v show_v by_o true_a record_n that_o this_o church_n be_v afflict_v only_o f●●tenne_v year_n and_o no_o long_o therefore_o a_o three_o exposition_n be_v this_o that_o by_o ten_o day_n be_v mean_v some_o short_a space_n of_o time_n and_o i_o so_o understand_v this_o place_n because_o it_o be_v most_o suitable_a to_o all_o circumstance_n for_o here_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n which_o be_v most_o fit_o do_v by_o foretell_v a_o short_a time_n of_o their_o affliction_n use_n in_o this_o circumstance_n of_o time_n christ_n set_v down_o two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n church_n and_o people_n be_v for_o a_o certain_a time_n decree_v of_o god_n which_o can_v be_v change_v lengthen_a or_o shorten_v particular_a proof_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o scripture_n so_o god_n foretell_v abraham_n that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o people_n shall_v be_v 430_o year_n which_o time_n they_o be_v afflict_v especial_o in_o egypt_n but_o at_o the_o same_o night_n when_o those_o year_n be_v expire_v they_o be_v lead_v out_o of_o egypt_n and_o their_o affliction_n cease_v exod._n 12.46_o and_o the_o 70_o year_n captivity_n be_v well_o know_v unto_o daniel_n to_o be_v determine_v of_o the_o lord_n and_o therefore_o he_o arm_v himself_o with_o patience_n during_o that_o time_n and_o pray_v not_o for_o deliverance_n until_o it_o shall_v be_v expire_v the_o consideration_n hereof_o must_v move_v we_o to_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n when_o god_n shall_v send_v affliction_n because_o we_o can_v deliver_v ourselves_o before_o the_o time_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o continuance_n of_o our_o affliction_n be_v set_v down_o by_o god_n and_o can_v be_v change_v by_o us._n second_o here_o christ_n show_v that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o church_n be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n and_o therefore_o paul_n 4.17_o call_v they_o moment_n any_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v reveal_v at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n and_o never_o have_v end_n which_o be_v a_o singular_a ground_n of_o comfort_n unto_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o any_o distress_n thus_o we_o see_v the_o part_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n yet_o in_o the_o word_n there_o be_v a_o further_a thing_n intend_v for_o every_o word_n contain_v a_o reason_n to_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o first_o from_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o persecution_n which_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o therefore_o they_o must_v not_o fear_v for_o if_o he_o cast_v they_o into_o prison_n their_o case_n be_v good_a he_o be_v god_n enemy_n and_o so_o the_o lord_n be_v on_o their_o side_n who_o then_o can_v be_v against_o they_o to_o do_v they_o hurt_v second_o not_o all_o your_o whole_a church_n but_o only_o some_o say_v christ_n must_v be_v afflict_v three_o satan_n can_v kill_v you_o but_o only_o cast_v you_o into_o prison_n four_o his_o imprisonment_n shall_v not_o tend_v to_o your_o damnation_n but_o make_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o grace_n and_o last_o it_o be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n in_o all_o which_o you_o may_v see_v the_o power_n of_o god_n providence_n overrule_a your_o enemy_n and_o turn_v his_o rage_n unto_o your_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o take_v comfort_n and_o courage_n unto_o your_o soul_n lay_v aside_o all_o fear_n and_o all_o dread_a and_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n to_o the_o end_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o counsel_n be_v a_o most_o bless_a precept_n contain_v most_o heavenly_a advice_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n god_n servant_n be_v call_v faithful_a in_o regard_n of_o their_o fidelity_n which_o they_o owe_v to_o god_n and_o that_o be_v in_o two_o respect_n i._n every_o member_n of_o christ_n be_v baptize_v wherein_o god_n for_o his_o part_n promise_v christ_n with_o life_n everlasting_a and_o the_o party_n baptize_v promise_v unto_o god_n again_o that_o he_o will_v deny_v himself_o and_o cast_v himself_o whole_o upon_o god_n in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o promise_n ●s_v call_v the_o stipulation_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o pet._n 3.21_o and_o when_o a_o man_n keep_v this_o promise_n make_v to_o god_n then_o be_v he_o faithful_a and_o when_o he_o break_v it_o he_o be_v unfaithful_a ii_o god_n give_v unto_o his_o child_n many_o good_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o knowledge_n faith_n repentance_n and_o care_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o he_o will_v have_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o keep_v and_o preserve_v and_o therefore_o paul_n bid_v timothy_n ●0_n keep_v that_o thing_n which_o be_v commit_v unto_o he_o of_o trust_n now_o a_o man_n be_v faithful_a unto_o god_n when_o he_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o still_o preserve_v the_o same_o use_v they_o for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o of_o his_o brethren_n like_a as_o we_o be_v count_v faithful_a with_o man_n when_o we_o keep_v that_o thing_n safe_a which_o be_v commit_v unto_o we_o of_o trust_n the_o meaning_n then_o of_o christ_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v make_v a_o promise_n unto_o i_o in_o baptism_n to_o renounce_v sin_n and_o satan_n and_o to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o death_n therefore_o perform_v this_o thy_o promise_n and_o for_o those_o gift_n which_o i_o have_v commit_v of_o trust_n unto_o thou_o see_v thou_o keep_v they_o well_o and_o use_v they_o to_o my_o glory_n in_o the_o good_a of_o thy_o brethren_n against_o this_o precept_n three_o sort_n of_o man_n offend_v and_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n i._n those_o that_o be_v baptize_v do_v yet_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o security_n never_o seek_v to_o know_v god_n or_o to_o understand_v his_o will_n no_o not_o so_o much_o as_o for_o their_o own_o vow_n in_o baptism_n though_o none_o will_v brag_v more_o of_o fidelity_n unto_o god_n than_o these_o man_n do_v ii_o those_o that_o have_v knowledge_n and_o understanding_n in_o god_n will_n and_o yet_o make_v no_o conscience_n to_o live_v according_o
iii_o those_o that_o for_o a_o time_n show_v forth_o many_o good_a thing_n as_o care_v to_o get_v knowledge_n and_o to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o after_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v entangle_v and_o draw_v away_o with_o the_o profit_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n or_o else_o to_o be_v drive_v back_o by_o trial_n and_o persecution_n and_o of_o these_o three_o sort_n be_v most_o man_n general_o who_o case_n be_v fearful_a and_o dangerous_a for_o they_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n if_o they_o continue_v thus_o unfaithful_a to_o induce_v man_n to_o fidelity_n christ_n add_v a_o most_o forcible_a reason_n promise_v thereunto_o the_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n hence_o the_o papist_n conclude_v that_o martyr_n by_o suffer_a martyrdom_n do_v merit_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n because_o it_o be_v call_v a_o crown_n therefore_o say_v they_o it_o be_v a_o reward_n whereto_o i_o answer_v two_o way_n i._n the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v call_v a_o crown_n only_o in_o resemblance_n because_o as_o with_o man_n after_o the_o race_n be_v run_v they_o receive_v the_o garland_n even_o so_o after_o man_n have_v fight_v the_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n and_o keep_v good_a conscience_n in_o this_o life_n then_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v they_o receive_v the_o crown_n of_o glory_n for_o the_o keep_n of_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n but_o the_o antecedent_n of_o eternal_a life_n second_o the_o reward_n be_v promise_v not_o to_o the_o martyrdom_n but_o to_o the_o martyr_n and_o yet_o not_o for_o his_o suffering_n but_o because_o he_o be_v a_o member_n of_o christ_n and_o by_o suffer_a death_n have_v show_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o who_o merit_n alone_o he_o be_v so_o reward_v and_o so_o must_v this_o and_o all_o other_o promise_n of_o like_a sort_n be_v understand_v for_o the_o papist_n do_v foul_o err_v when_o they_o apply_v the_o promise_n unto_o the_o work_n which_o be_v make_v unto_o the_o worker_n by_o this_o promise_n we_o all_o that_o have_v make_v our_o vow_n to_o god_n in_o baptism_n must_v learn_v to_o become_v faithful_a in_o keep_v the_o same_o unto_o the_o end_n it_o be_v a_o shame_n for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o man_n much_o more_o with_o god_n and_o the_o more_o fearful_a be_v this_o sin_n because_o only_o the_o faithful_a shall_v inherit_v eternal_a life_n second_o all_o such_o as_o have_v make_v a_o show_n of_o good_a thing_n heretofore_o and_o now_o do_v suffer_v the_o same_o to_o decay_v must_v call_v to_o mind_n from_o whence_o they_o be_v fall_v and_o become_v faithful_a keeper_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n and_o walk_v constant_o in_o obedience_n and_o then_o shall_v they_o have_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n though_o not_o for_o their_o desert_n but_o only_o for_o the_o merit_n of_o christ._n verse_n 11._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o last_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n namely_o the_o conclusion_n wherein_o observe_v general_o as_o also_o in_o the_o two_o next_o verse_n that_o christ_n repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n which_o he_o speak_v before_o in_o this_o and_o the_o former_a chapter_n yea_o in_o the_o very_a same_o word_n this_o must_v be_v consider_v because_o it_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o doctor_n of_o his_o church_n who_o example_n both_o for_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o teach_v must_v be_v our_o rule_n and_o precept_n the_o like_a do_v the_o apostle_n it_o grieve_v not_o paul_n to_o write_v the_o same_o thing_n phil._n 3.1_o and_o peter_n say_v unto_o the_o disperse_a church_n 12_o that_o he_o will_v often_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n of_o the_o same_o thing_n before_o his_o depart_n wherein_o they_o have_v knowledge_n and_o be_v establish_v hereby_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o their_o ministry_n have_v warrant_n often_o to_o teach_v and_o repeat_v the_o same_o point_n of_o doctrine_n even_o in_o the_o same_o word_n yea_o god_n faithful_a minister_n may_v preach_v the_o same_o sermon_n oftentimes_o if_o he_o do_v it_o not_o for_o ease_v to_o himself_o but_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o people_n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o hearer_n of_o god_n word_n shall_v at_o any_o time_n mark_v the_o minister_n to_o deliver_v the_o same_o thing_n often_o he_o be_v not_o curious_o to_o find_v fault_n with_o his_o ministry_n for_o by_o that_o reason_n they_o may_v find_v fault_n with_o christ_n who_o seven_o time_n repeat_v the_o same_o thing_n unto_o these_o church_n this_o conclusion_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commandment_n and_o a_o promise_n the_o word_n of_o this_o commandment_n have_v be_v expound_v in_o the_o seven_o verse_n with_o the_o doctrine_n and_o use_n thereof_o yet_o here_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v what_o the_o spirit_n commend_v thus_o serious_o to_o our_o hear_n the_o thing_n be_v three_o which_o be_v handle_v in_o the_o former_a verse_n first_o touch_v god_n providence_n that_o he_o see_v and_o regard_v the_o tribulation_n of_o his_o church_n the_o second_o touch_v trial_n that_o god_n church_n and_o people_n ought_v beforehand_o to_o consider_v of_o the_o day_n of_o visitation_n and_o thereby_o arm_v themselves_o with_o courage_n against_o all_o affliction_n that_o they_o suffer_v not_o themselves_o to_o be_v overmuch_o daunt_v with_o any_o fear_n the_o three_o touch_v faithfulness_n god_n people_n must_v consider_v what_o promise_v they_o have_v make_v to_o god_n in_o baptism_n namely_o to_o keep_v faith_n true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o these_o they_o must_v perform_v unto_o death_n these_o thing_n be_v so_o careful_o commend_v unto_o we_o by_o christ_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o have_v they_o engrave_v in_o our_o heart_n that_o we_o may_v practice_v they_o in_o our_o life_n and_o to_o incite_v we_o hereunto_o we_o must_v mark_v the_o two_o reason_n contain_v in_o the_o word_n first_o because_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n speak_v to_o us._n second_o because_o they_o concern_v all_o church_n though_o principal_o they_o be_v speak_v to_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o therefore_o none_o may_v seek_v excuse_n to_o exempt_v himself_o from_o learning_n and_o obey_v these_o thing_n the_o promise_n he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v not_o be_v hurt_v of_o the_o second_o death_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o overcome_v we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o seven_o verse_n by_o second_o death_n be_v mean_v the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o body_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o for_o there_o be_v two_o kind_n of_o death_n mention_v in_o scripture_n the_o first_o be_v the_o separation_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n asunder_o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n the_o second_o be_v when_o soul_n and_o body_n both_o be_v s●●ered_v for_o ever_o from_o god_n comfortable_a presence_n reu._n 21.8_o this_o second_o death_n be_v expound_v to_o be_v a_o abode_n in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n the_o meaning_n therefore_o of_o the_o promise_n be_v this_o that_o they_o which_o overcome_v though_o they_o may_v suffer_v the_o first_o death_n yet_o they_o shall_v never_o suffer_v damnation_n their_o soul_n and_o body_n may_v be_v sever_v one_o from_o the_o other_o for_o a_o time_n but_o neither_o soul_n nor_o body_n shall_v ever_o be_v sever_v from_o god_n to_o go_v into_o that_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n which_o be_v a_o most_o gracious_a and_o happy_a promise_n here_o first_o mark_n to_o who_o this_o promise_n be_v make_v namely_o to_o they_o that_o overcome_v where_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o a_o man_n to_o profess_v and_o approve_v or_o to_o teach_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o withal_o he_o must_v join_v a_o fight_n against_o himself_o against_o sin_n the_o world_n the_o devil_n and_o against_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n and_o not_o suffer_v they_o to_o reign_v over_o he_o but_o so_o fight_v as_o by_o god_n grace_n he_o may_v overcome_v and_o then_o shall_v the_o second_o death_n never_o hurt_v he_o it_o be_v nothing_o to_o profess_v if_o we_o still_o live_v in_o sin_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o knowledge_n but_o labour_v to_o feel_v in_o our_o heart_n such_o power_n of_o grace_n as_o will_v make_v we_o true_o to_o say_v we_o be_v conqueror_n over_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n this_o be_v that_o bless_a state_n of_o all_o those_o unto_o who_o life_n everlasting_a belong_v who_o shall_v never_o taste_v of_o the_o second_o death_n second_o here_o be_v answer_v a_o great_a question_n which_o
every_o man_n conscience_n will_v move_v unto_o he_o namely_o how_o may_v i_o escape_v the_o second_o death_n that_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n answ._n thou_o must_v in_o this_o life_n true_o turn_v unto_o god_n from_o all_o thy_o evil_a way_n renounce_v thyself_o and_o put_v all_o thy_o affiance_n in_o christ_n his_o death_n and_o passion_n and_o evermore_o labour_v to_o keep_v true_a religion_n faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o death_n in_o all_o estate_n this_o do_v and_o though_o thou_o taste_v of_o the_o first_o yet_o the_o second_o death_n shall_v never_o touch_v thou_o three_o hereby_o christ_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o of_o the_o two_o death_n the_o second_o be_v the_o worse_a the_o bodily_a death_n be_v terrible_a unto_o nature_n but_o the_o second_o be_v the_o proper_a death_n indeed_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o creature_n in_o soul_n and_o body_n eternal_o and_o yet_o behold_v the_o madness_n of_o man_n who_o fear_v great_o the_o first_o death_n and_o regard_v nothing_o the_o burn_a lake_n like_v unto_o little_a child_n that_o fear_v their_o own_o shadow_n and_o yet_o be_v not_o afraid_a of_o fire_n and_o water_n that_o will_v burn_v and_o drown_v they_o this_o be_v man_n miserable_a estate_n through_o the_o blindness_n of_o his_o mind_n &_o the_o hardness_n of_o his_o heart_n verse_n 12._o and_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o pergamus_n write_v this_o say_v he_o that_o have_v that_o sharp_a sword_n with_o two_o edge_n here_o be_v the_o three_o particular_a commandment_n which_o christ_n give_v to_o john_n whereof_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n show_v there_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o angel_n and_o why_o this_o particular_a commandment_n be_v give_v unto_o john_n this_o three_o epistle_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o former_a have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n in_o this_o verse_n the_o proposition_n of_o the_o epistle_n verse_n 13_o and_o so_o forward_o unto_o the_o 17_o and_o the_o conclusion_n in_o the_o 17_o verse_n i._o part_n the_o preface_n show_v in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v namely_o in_o christ_n name_n the_o cause_n whereof_o we_o have_v show_v before_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n christ_n be_v here_o set_v forth_o by_o a_o action_n of_o his_o kingly_a office_n borrow_v from_o the_o former_a chapter_n verse_n 16._o these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v that_o sharp_a two_o edge_a sword_n that_o be_v he_o who_o be_v not_o only_a priest_n and_o prophet_n of_o his_o church_n but_o the_o king_n thereof_o to_o guide_v and_o govern_v the_o same_o the_o sword_n which_o he_o have_v in_o his_o hand_n or_o in_o his_o mouth_n as_o isaiah_n say_v be_v that_o two_o edge_a sword_n yea_o that_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n thereby_o be_v signify_v the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n the_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o be_v so_o call_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o operation_n thereof_o as_o it_o be_v hebr._n the_o 4.12_o christ_n be_v thus_o describe_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n for_o hereby_o three_o thing_n be_v signify_v first_o his_o wonderful_a power_n in_o slay_v original_a sin_n and_o corruption_n by_o his_o word_n in_o all_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o so_o as_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o recovery_n for_o sin_n after_o it_o be_v once_o wound_v second_o that_o he_o will_v strengthen_v and_o preserve_v his_o church_n and_o all_o the_o true_a member_n thereof_o by_o the_o same_o word_n against_o all_o their_o enemy_n this_o it_o do_v after_o this_o manner_n the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n both_o law_n and_o gospel_n must_v both_o be_v know_v and_o believe_v then_o whensoever_o any_o temptation_n come_v faith_n make_v the_o same_o word_n powerful_a in_o we_o to_o repel_v the_o temptation_n and_o to_o strengthen_v we_o in_o affliction_n for_o it_o be_v that_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o we_o wound_v all_o our_o enemy_n but_o if_o it_o be_v not_o believe_v it_o be_v but_o as_o a_o sword_n in_o a_o sheath_n and_o will_v nothing_o help_v us._n three_o hereby_o he_o signify_v that_o he_o destroy_v all_o their_o enemy_n this_o be_v the_o chief_a end_n why_o he_o so_o describe_v himself_o in_o this_o place_n how_o christ_n wound_v his_o enemy_n herewith_o we_o have_v show_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n and_o the_o sixteen_o verse_n with_o the_o use_v thereof_o verse_n 13._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o where_o thou_o dwell_v even_o where_o satan_n throne_n be_v and_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n even_o in_o th●se_a day_n when_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v here_o begin_v the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o epistle_n to_o wit_n the_o proposition_n which_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o commendation_n of_o this_o church_n in_o this_o verse_n and_o a_o reproof_n vers_fw-la 14_o 15._o the_o commendation_n be_v twofold_a first_o general_a in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n then_o special_a in_o the_o word_n follow_v i_o know_v where_o thou_o dwell_v etc._n etc._n of_o the_o general_a commendation_n we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o former_a epistle_n verse_n 2._o and_o 9_o this_o yet_o must_v be_v observe_v that_o christ_n herewith_o begin_v the_o matter_n of_o all_o his_o epistle_n intend_v no_o doubt_n hereby_o to_o settle_v the_o persuasion_n of_o his_o presence_n deep_o in_o every_o one_o of_o our_o heart_n for_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o holy_a fear_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o all_o true_a religion_n and_o godliness_n and_o here_o christ_n give_v a_o precedent_n for_o his_o minister_n namely_o that_o the_o first_o thing_n they_o must_v teach_v their_o people_n be_v to_o be_v persuade_v of_o this_o presence_n of_o christ_n wheresoever_o they_o be_v christ_n be_v with_o they_o and_o whatsoever_o they_o do_v he_o see_v they_o this_o will_v cause_v they_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o their_o way_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o shall_v ever_o have_v sound_a knowledge_n or_o good_a conscience_n till_o he_o be_v persuade_v hereof_o abraham_n know_v well_o that_o in_o abimelekes_fw-mi court_n they_o will_v make_v no_o conscience_n of_o murder_n because_o they_o 20.11_o want_v this_o fear_n of_o god_n to_o fear_n god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n be_v the_o whole_a man_n and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v give_v all_o diligence_n hereunto_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o hard_a lesson_n for_o we_o to_o learn_v and_o of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v learn_v it_o but_o if_o we_o use_v the_o mean_n god_n blessing_n will_v be_v upon_o our_o endeavour_n and_o then_o shall_v we_o have_v knowledge_n upon_o knowledge_n and_o grace_n upon_o grace_n with_o the_o comfort_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o particular_a commendation_n of_o this_o church_n be_v for_o her_o constancy_n in_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v where_o thou_o dwell_v even_o in_o a_o place_n where_o satan_n throne_n be_v and_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n that_o be_v thou_o hold_v still_o my_o true_a religion_n and_o doctrine_n the_o throne_n of_o satan_n be_v any_o place_n where_o superstition_n idolatry_n or_o profaneness_n be_v maintain_v without_o controlment_n and_o from_o whence_o wickedness_n be_v convey_v to_o other_o place_n for_o the_o devil_n be_v the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n and_o he_o have_v his_o throne_n among_o man_n pergamus_n be_v a_o great_a city_n of_o the_o gentile_n which_o maintain_v idolatry_n and_o persecute_v the_o gospel_n from_o whence_o also_o iniquity_n be_v derive_v to_o other_o town_n and_o place_n therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o devil_n throne_n herein_o we_o may_v observe_v sundry_a point_n of_o great_a importance_n first_o the_o exceed_a policy_n of_o satan_n he_o have_v his_o kingdom_n in_o this_o world_n and_o for_o the_o establish_n thereof_o he_o must_v have_v his_o throne_n where_o wickedness_n and_o idolatry_n be_v maintain_v without_o controlment_n and_o whence_o sin_n be_v derive_v to_o other_o place_n in_o all_o age_n it_o have_v be_v thus_o and_o will_v continue_v so_o to_o the_o end_n in_o the_o old_a world_n he_o have_v his_o throne_n among_o cain_n posterity_n in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n even_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n the_o high_a place_n and_o grove_n where_o the_o people_n sacrifice_v to_o their_o idol_n be_v the_o devil_n throne_n the_o oracle_n of_o the_o gentile_n where_o the_o devil_n give_v answer_v unto_o man_n be_v his_o chief_a throne_n in_o the_o day_n of_o popery_n every_o church_n and_o chapel_n be_v throne_n of_o satan_n wherein_o be_v erect_v image_n &_o holy_a rood_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o saint_n whither_o the_o people_n come_v to_o worship_n from_o
notable_a mean_n to_o draw_v man_n to_o love_n and_o embrace_v faith_n and_o true_a religion_n 1._o pet._n 3.1_o iii_o that_o god_n may_v show_v on_o the_o godly_a token_n of_o his_o special_a love_n and_o favour_n which_o he_o do_v when_o he_o send_v judgement_n upon_o the_o wicked_a and_o spare_v his_o child_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v bring_v a_o common_a judgement_n upon_o the_o jew_n he_o cause_v those_o that_o mourn_v for_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o for_o the_o abomination_n of_o the_o people_n 9.4_o to_o be_v mark_v in_o the_o forehead_n that_o they_o may_v bespared_a so_o that_o if_o any_o godly_a person_n dwell_v among_o such_o as_o hate_v religion_n and_o be_v profane_a he_o must_v content_v himself_o know_v it_o be_v god_n will_v his_o church_n shall_v be_v vex_v and_o trouble_v by_o the_o society_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a six_o hence_o it_o appear_v that_o god_n people_n may_v lawful_o dwell_v among_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a man_n always_o remember_v that_o they_o communicate_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o rebellion_n against_o god_n for_o so_o l●t_v dwell_v in_o sodom_n and_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n 1._o cor._n 7.2_o this_o question_n be_v answer_v a_o master_n be_v a_o heathen_a man_n and_o his_o servant_n be_v convert_v to_o the_o faith_n whereupon_o he_o think_v that_o he_o be_v free_a from_o serve_v his_o master_n but_o paul_n tell_v he_o he_o must_v do_v external_a service_n still_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o he_o keep_v good_a conscience_n and_o be_v not_o constrain_v to_o renounce_v true_a religion_n last_o hence_o we_o have_v direction_n to_o answer_v a_o question_n much_o urge_v against_o we_o by_o the_o papist_n to_o wit_n where_o our_o church_n be_v fourscore_o year_n ago_o when_o luther_n first_o begin_v to_o preach_v they_o intend_v hereby_o to_o prove_v our_o church_n to_o be_v but_o of_o fourscore_o year_n continuance_n and_o so_o our_o religion_n to_o be_v new_a we_o answer_v by_o the_o like_a where_o be_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n when_o the_o devil_n throne_n be_v in_o that_o city_n sure_o it_o be_v there_o where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n and_o so_o when_o antichrist_n that_o man_n of_o sin_n have_v spread_v popery_n over_o all_o europe_n at_o that_o very_o same_o time_n be_v god_n church_n in_o europe_n where_o popery_n be_v profess_v mingle_v with_o the_o papist_n which_o to_o be_v true_a appear_v by_o this_o that_o in_o all_o age_n there_o have_v be_v some_o who_o open_o have_v oppugn_v popery_n more_o or_o less_o partly_o by_o writing_n and_o partly_o by_o speak_v as_o the_o record_n of_o all_o age_n do_v testify_v &_o make_v manifest_a so_o that_o though_o iniquity_n have_v the_o upper_a hand_n yet_o our_o church_n have_v his_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o popery_n and_o thou_o keep_v my_o name_n that_o be_v though_o thou_o dwell_v in_o a_o place_n where_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o throne_n yet_o thou_o hold_v fast_v my_o name_n so_o as_o neither_o force_n nor_o fraud_n of_o the_o adversary_n can_v take_v my_o name_n from_o thou_o so_o much_o the_o word_n import_v by_o christ_n name_n we_o must_v understand_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o paul_n be_v say_v to_o be_v 9.15_o a_o choose_a vessel_n to_o carry_v christ_n name_n among_o the_o gentile_n that_o be_v to_o publish_v among_o they_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n here_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n be_v particular_o commend_v for_o her_o constancy_n in_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o teach_v or_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o time_n of_o peace_n but_o we_o must_v be_v constant_a in_o hold_v it_o fast_o against_o all_o gainsayer_n and_o not_o be_v turn_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n of_o doctrine_n but_o in_o life_n and_o death_n keep_v sure_o the_o truth_n that_o neither_o fraud_n nor_o forc●_n of_o any_o adversary_n power_n draw_v it_o from_o we_o or_o we_o from_o it_o mat._n 13._o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n 〈◊〉_d compare_v to_o a_o treasure_n hide_v in_o the_o field_n which_o when_o a_o man_n sud_v be_v go_v and_o sell_v all_o he_o have_v to_o buy_v the_o field_n the_o scope_n of_o that_o parable_n be_v this_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v come_v into_o any_o of_o our_o field_n &_o by_o search_v find_v a_o gold_n i_o he_o will_v not_o make_v it_o know_v to_o any_o but_o cover_v it_o close_o and_o go_v his_o way_n and_o sell_v all_o that_o he_o have_v to_o buy_v that_o field_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v enrich_v himself_o even_o so_o have_v find_v this_o that_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v the_o way_n to_o life_n everlasting_a though_o we_o must_v not_o conceal_v the_o same_o from_o other_o yet_o we_o must_v be_v like_o this_o man_n herein_o that_o we_o can_v be_v content_a to_o part_v with_o all_o that_o we_o have_v that_o so_o we_o may_v make_v the_o gospel_n we_o 1._o tim._n 3.9_o deacon_n must_v have_v this_o property_n to_o have_v the_o ministry_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n there_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o sure_a treasure_n house_n which_o can_v be_v rob_v by_o any_o adversary_n power_n and_o faith_n that_o be_v true_a religion_n be_v the_o treasure_n that_o be_v there_o safe_o lay_v up_o such_o a_o store-house_n must_v we_o get_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o faith_n any_o thing_n else_o we_o may_v lose_v but_o if_o we_o part_v with_o true_a religion_n salvation_n be_v go_v and_o all_o be_v lose_v and_o therefore_o in_o life_n and_o death_n we_o must_v keep_v fast_o the_o faith_n further_o christ_n amplifi_v the_o praise_n of_o their_o conscience_n by_o two_o argument_n first_o that_o they_o hold_v christ_n name_n without_o denial_n second_o that_o they_o keep_v the_o faith_n in_o the_o time_n of_o bloody_a persecution_n for_o the_o first_o in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n this_o be_v a_o excellent_a commendation_n for_o many_o will_v hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o a_o time_n and_o yet_o after_o deny_v the_o same_o by_o apostasy_n but_o this_o church_n hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n without_o any_o revolt_n at_o all_o their_o practice_n must_v we_o follow_v and_o so_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n that_o therein_o we_o never_o make_v revolt_n for_o if_o we_o shall_v once_o deny_v religion_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o god_n will_v give_v we_o the_o grace_n of_o repentance_n that_o w●e_n may_v profess_v it_o again_o which_o if_o he_o do_v not_o we_o perish_v eternal_o consider_v esau●_n example_n who_o sell_v his_o birth_n right_a for_o a_o mess_n of_o red_a broth_n and_o after_o lose_v the_o blessing_n which_o when_o he_o will_v have_v recover_v he_o be_v reject_v 12.17_o and_o find_v no_o place_n to_o repentance_n though_o be_v seek_v it_o with_o tear_n therefore_o to_o prevent_v the_o fearful_a danger_n of_o not_o repent_v after_o revoult_v we_o must_v still_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n without_o denial_n here_o in_o this_o place_n the_o faith_n of_o christ_n be_v all_o one_o with_o christ_n name_n that_o be_v with_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o it_o be_v call_v christ_n faith_n first_o because_o christ_n with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o author_n thereof_o second_o because_o christ_n reveal_v the_o same_o from_o the_o bosom_n of_o his_o father_n for_o god_n reveal_v his_o gospel_n unto_o man_n by_o his_o son_n christ_n jesus_n three_o because_o christ_n be_v the_o substance_n and_o matter_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o indeed_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o principal_a subject_n of_o the_o whole_a bible_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n &_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o second_o argument_n of_o their_o praise_n for_o conscience_n be_v take_v from_o the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n they_o hold_v fast_o true_a religion_n in_o the_o time_n of_o bloody_a persecution_n even_o in_o those_o day_n say_v christ_n when_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v who_o this_o antipas_n be_v be_v not_o know_v neither_o certain_o record_v in_o any_o history_n it_o be_v think_v he_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n unto_o oppose_a himself_o against_o idolatry_n and_o gentilism_n in_o this_o city_n of_o pergamus_n in_o this_o argument_n note_v two_o point_n i._o that_o christ_n commend_v antipas_n call_v he_o his_o faithful_a martyr_n whereby_o we_o see_v that_o in_o god_n church_n it_o be_v lawful_a to_o honour_v saint_n and_o martyr_n for_o that_o which_o christ_n do_v his_o church_n may_v do_v this_o their_o honour_n must_v stand_v
in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o faith_n and_o renew_v of_o their_o repentance_n all_o which_o will_v rather_o make_v a_o man_n fearful_a and_o careful_a than_o secure_a for_o with_o the_o mean_n be_v certainty_n of_o salvation_n both_o attein_v and_o preserve_v so_o that_o our_o doctrine_n be_v not_o a_o doctrine_n of_o offence_n but_o a_o true_a doctrine_n that_o beat_v out_o the_o plain_a way_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n second_o christ_n his_o detestation_n of_o this_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n must_v admonish_v we_o to_o be_v so_o careful_a of_o our_o behaviour_n every_o way_n that_o we_o give_v no_o offence_n unto_o any_o for_o if_o we_o do_v we_o be_v balaams_n scholar_n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o special_a observation_n we_o must_v look_v to_o our_o communication_n that_o it_o be_v void_a of_o rail_v &_o bad_a speech_n and_o to_o our_o conversation_n that_o it_o be_v holy_a and_o unblameable_a in_o every_o thing_n we_o must_v have_v care_v not_o to_o hinder_v other_o in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n woe_n 7._o be_v to_o they_o say_v christ_n that_o give_v offence_n it_o be_v better_a that_o a_o huge_a millstone_n such_o as_o a_o ass_n can_v but_o turn_v about_o as_o the_o word_n import_v be_v tie_v about_o his_o neck_n and_o that_o he_o be_v cast_v into_o the_o sea_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o when_o a_o man_n by_o any_o mean_n give_v his_o brother_n a_o offence_n he_o do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o plunge_v his_o brother_n soul_n into_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v fly_v offence_n as_o hell_n itself_o yea_o rather_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o must_v help_v our_o brethren_n forward_o in_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n and_o remove_v from_o they_o all_o stumble_a block_n that_o cause_v they_o to_o fall_v if_o this_o duty_n be_v practise_v our_o church_n will_v abound_v with_o grace_n and_o godliness_n but_o this_o duty_n be_v want_v and_o hence_o it_o come_v that_o we_o have_v so_o small_a increase_n after_o long_a labour_n in_o preach_v for_o example_n and_o evil_a counsel_n do_v quench_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o man_n heart_n three_o hereby_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o have_v special_a care_n against_o offence_n give_v by_o evil_a counsel_n or_o bad_a example_n for_o if_o it_o be_v the_o property_n of_o a_o false_a prophet_n to_o cast_v stumble_v block_n before_o other_o then_o be_v it_o a_o dangerous_a thing_n to_o fall_v upon_o they_o when_o they_o be_v lay_v before_o us._n while_o we_o live_v in_o this_o world_n we_o shall_v see_v many_o offence_n give_v but_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n we_o take_v they_o not_o and_o therefore_o christ_n bid_v we_o ●_o if_o thy_o foot_n offend_v thou_o or_o thy_o ha●d_a cut_v it_o off_o or_o thy_o eye_n pluck_v it_o out_o teach_v we_o to_o forgo_v the_o dear_a thing_n that_o can_v be_v unto_o we_o if_o it_o will_v cause_v we_o to_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o to_o move_v we_o hereto_o mark_v the_o israelit_n example_n in_o the_o wilderness_n while_o they_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o observe_v the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n all_o balaams_n curse_n be_v turn_v into_o blessing_n but_o when_o they_o fall_v to_o idolatry_n &_o fornication_n with_o the_o moabitish_a woman_n then_o be_v god_n wrath_n kindle_v against_o they_o and_o his_o plague_n seize_v upon_o they_o even_o so_o if_o our_o church_n be_v careful_a to_o keep_v itself_o to_o the_o true_a religion_n which_o by_o god_n mercy_n we_o enjoy_v and_o withal_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v good_a conscience_n in_o become_v a_o penitent_a and_o obedient_a people_n unto_o god_n then_o may_v balaam_n curse_v and_o all_o our_o enemy_n spit_v their_o venom_n yet_o we_o shall_v be_v safe_a but_o if_o we_o let_v go_v true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n and_o fall_v to_o sin_n than_o we_o must_v look_v for_o ●ods_n heavy_a judgement_n to_o fall_v upon_o we_o in_o his_o wrath_n as_o they_o do_v upon_o his_o own_o people_n four_o when_o balaams_n curse_v will_v not_o prevail_v than_o do_v fair_a woman_n and_o banquet_v draw_v they_o to_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o temptation_n on_o the_o right_a hand_n that_o be_v take_v from_o profit_n pleasure_n and_o preferment_n be_v most_o dangerous_a and_o soon_o prevail_v to_o draw_v man_n from_o god_n the_o state_n of_o a_o christian_n be_v like_o a_o besiege_a city_n when_o a_o huge_a army_n can_v sack_v it_o than_o silver_n and_o gold_n will_v open_v the_o gate_n hereof_o even_o so_o when_o adversity_n can_v make_v a_o man_n to_o forsake_v religion_n &_o good_a conscience_n then_o by_o prosperity_n ease_n and_o pleasure_n have_v the_o devil_n steal_v away_o his_o heart_n those_o therefore_o that_o have_v ease_n pleasure_n and_o outward_a blessing_n at_o will_n be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o dangerous_a case_n in_o respect_n of_o sin_n than_o other_o unless_o god_n vouchsafe_v unto_o they_o special_a grace_n to_o watch_v against_o these_o please_a temptation_n this_o make_v godly_a job_n 1.5_o to_o sanctify_v his_o child_n every_o day_n when_o they_o feast_v each_o other_o at_o their_o house_n lest_o any_o one_o than_o shall_v have_v blaspheme_v god_n in_o his_o hart_n because_o he_o know_v the_o devil_n by_o pleasure_n will_v soon_o wind_v himself_o into_o their_o heart_n last_o note_v the_o order_n of_o these_o sin_n first_o they_o be_v draw_v to_o sit_v at_o idol_n feast_n and_o then_o to_o commit_v adultery_n where_o we_o see_v that_o these_o two_o sin_n go_v together_o spiritual_a adultery_n that_o be_v idolatry_n and_o bodily_a adultery_n one_o be_v the_o plague_n &_o punishment_n of_o the_o other_o that_o people_n which_o give_v themselves_o to_o idolatry_n will_v god_n give_v up_o to_o bodily_a adultery_n as_o this_o be_v true_a in_o these_o israeli●s_n so_o be_v it_o to_o be_v see_v among_o the_o turk_n and_o with_o the_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n who_o maintain_n fornication_n in_o tollerate_v stew_n and_o further_o it_o much_o by_o their_o vow_n of_o single_a life_n wherewith_o they_o bind_v the_o conscience_n though_o the_o party_n want_v the_o gift_n of_o continence_n verse_n 15._o even_o so_o have_v thou_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_o which_o thing_n i_o ha●e_v here_o follow_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o comparison_n where_o christ_n set_v down_o two_o thing_n first_o what_o the_o nicolaitan_o be_v second_o how_o he_o be_v affect_v towards_o they_o what_o they_o be_v be_v express_v in_o the_o first_o word_n even_o so_o which_o be_v a_o note_n of_o resemblance_n or_o comparison_n have_v reference_n to_o the_o word_n go_v before_o they_o may_v be_v thus_o describe_v the_o nicolaitan_o be_v a_o se●t_n in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n that_o maintain_v two_o damnable_a opinion_n according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n i._o that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o eat_v thing_n offer_v to_o idol_n in_o the_o honour_n of_o idol_n sit_v in_o the_o idol_n temple_n i●_n that_o fornication_n be_v no_o sin_n but_o that_o a_o man_n may_v lawful_o commit_v it_o it_o may_v seem_v strange_a that_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n there_o shall_v be_v man_n profess_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o yet_o hold_v such_o damnable_a opinion_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v hereby_o evident_a that_o there_o be_v such_o in_o this_o church_n and_o that_o we_o do_v not_o conceive_v a_o like_n of_o their_o wicked_a opinion_n let_v we_o examine_v their_o reason_n whereupon_o they_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v ground_v for_o the_o eat_n of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n they_o will_v plead_v thus_o i._o from_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christian_n liberty_n thing_n indifferent_a may_v ●e_v lawful_o use_v thing_n offer_v to_o idol_n be_v thing_n indifferent_a as_o meat_n and_o drink_v and_o therefore_o may_v lawful_o be_v use_v ans._n meat_n and_o drink_n if_o they_o be_v consider_v in_o themselves_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a and_o may_v lawful_o be_v use_v yea_o after_o they_o have_v be_v offer_v to_o idol_n if_o they_o be_v sell_v in_o the_o market_n they_o may_v be_v lawful_o buy_v and_o eat_v in_o private_a house_n if_o it_o be_v do_v without_o offence_n of_o the_o weak_a as_o paul_n teach_v at_o large_a 1._o cor._n 10.25.29_o but_o if_o these_o meat_n be_v consider_v as_o they_o be_v offer_v to_o idol_n and_o eat_v in_o the_o idol_n temple_n in_o the_o honour_n of_o idol_n they_o be_v unlawful_a and_o yet_o the_o nicolaitan_o hold_v this_o to_o be_v lawful_a ii_o reason_n a_o idol_n be_v nothing_o 1._o cor._n 8.4_o and_o therefore_o we_o sin_v not_o in_o eat_v meat_n offer_v unto_o they_o ans._n a_o idol_n be_v nothing_o that_o be_v in_o nature_n subsist_v nothing_o
it_o mean_v for_o meat_n and_o drink_n be_v never_o know_v till_o a_o man_n be_v hungry_a yea_o to_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n this_o manna_n be_v hide_v for_o though_o man_n hear_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n yet_o not_o one_o of_o a_o hundred_o feel_v in_o themselves_o any_o want_n of_o christ_n let_v the_o conscience_n speak_v and_o this_o will_v prove_v true_a ignorant_a people_n bless_v themselves_o and_o say_v all_o be_v well_o christ_n be_v a_o saviour_n when_o as_o indeed_o to_o they_o christ_n be_v hide_v nay_o which_o be_v yet_o more_o lamentable_a to_o many_o which_o teach_v and_o preach_v christ_n christ_n be_v hide_v manna_n for_o many_o of_o they_o never_o feel_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o conscience_n that_o they_o have_v need_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o their_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o the_o knowledge_n in_o the_o brain_n that_o make_v christ_n know_v to_o man_n but_o knowledge_n in_o the_o conscience_n when_o a_o man_n feel_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o soul_n that_o he_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o passion_n for_o his_o redemption_n &_o salvation_n and_o see_v this_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o world_n we_o on_o the_o contrary_n must_v labour_v to_o feel_v in_o ourselves_o our_o own_o poverty_n &_o to_o see_v in_o ourselves_o that_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o passion_n to_o free_v our_o soul_n from_o the_o gulf_n of_o hell_n and_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n away_o with_o bare_a mental_a knowledge_n for_o till_o we_o have_v this_o true_a sense_n of_o our_o own_o want_n we_o can_v never_o get_v into_o our_o heart_n any_o sound_a grace_n second_o be_v christ_n hide_a bread_n not_o reveal_v to_o all_o then_o call_v effectual_a to_o salvation_n so_o as_o if_o he_o will_v every_o man_n may_v be_v save_v be_v not_o universal_a for_o than_o shall_v christ_n not_o be_v hide_v but_o reveal_v to_o all_o which_o be_v not_o so_o election_n therefore_o and_o effectual_a vocation_n be_v definite_a &_o particular_a and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o branch_n of_o this_o gift_n the_o second_o gift_n be_v a_o white_a stone_n here_o christ_n borrow_v a_o comparison_n from_o the_o custom_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o gentile_n to_o who_o these_o epistle_n be_v direct_v a_o white_a stone_n be_v of_o great_a use_n among_o they_o for_o first_o the_o judge_n in_o give_v sentence_n use_v white_a stone_n and_o black_a stone_n the_o give_v of_o a_o white_a stone_n be_v a_o token_n of_o absolution_n the_o give_v of_o a_o black_a stone_n a_o sign_n of_o condemnation_n here_o then_o the_o give_v of_o a_o white_a stone_n may_v signify_v absolution_n from_o christ_n of_o all_o a_o man_n sin_n and_o trespass_n again_o when_o the_o gentile_n will_v know_v which_o be_v lucky_a day_n as_o they_o speak_v and_o which_o be_v unlucky_a they_o use_v to_o cast_v lot_n with_o white_a and_o black_a stone_n and_o that_o day_n which_o light_n on_o a_o white_a stone_n be_v judge_v to_o be_v a_o lucky_a day_n that_o which_o light_n on_o a_o black_a stone_n be_v judge_v to_o be_v unlucky_a this_o practice_n they_o use_v as_o may_v be_v show_v by_o sufficient_a record_n and_o though_o this_o practice_n have_v no_o warrant_n yet_o may_v christ_n allude_v unto_o it_o to_o signify_v unto_o they_o that_o he_o will_v give_v they_o good_a success_n in_o all_o their_o action_n yea_o happy_a day_n and_o a_o bless_a life_n full_a of_o all_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n other_o do_v expound_v it_o of_o give_v victory_n whereof_o the_o give_v of_o a_o white_a stone_n be_v a_o sign_n but_o this_o be_v not_o so_o fit_a neither_o can_v it_o be_v show_v by_o true_a record_n that_o they_o have_v such_o a_o practice_n i_o rather_o take_v it_o christ_n allude_v to_o the_o first_o and_o here_o promise_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v the_o true_a remission_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n 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this_o new_a name_n therefore_o be_v to_o be_v the_o son_n and_o heir_n of_o god_n in_o christ._n and_o because_o it_o be_v give_v of_o god_n himself_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o think_v it_o be_v a_o idle_a name_n or_o a_o bare_a title_n only_o but_o withal_o god_n give_v he_o a_o new_a condition_n whereof_o this_o name_n be_v a_o token_n and_o title_n god_n change_v abraham_n name_n &_o call_v he_o abraham_n but_o it_o be_v when_o he_o have_v change_v his_o estate_n and_o make_v he_o the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o there_o be_v a_o change_n in_o jacob_n when_o god_n call_v he_o israel_n this_o new_a name_n then_o signify_v the_o give_v of_o a_o new_a estate_n to_o a_o man_n or_o woman_n which_o they_o have_v not_o before_o namely_o their_o regeneration_n whereby_o they_o be_v make_v to_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o to_o live_v unto_o god_n for_o therewith_o go_v the_o blessing_n of_o adoption_n whereby_o they_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o heir_n with_o christ_n and_o so_o have_v heaven_n and_o earth_n for_o their_o possession_n and_o all_o misery_n and_o cross_n yea_o sin_n itself_o turn_v to_o their_o good_a they_o have_v also_o the_o protection_n of_o god_n holy_a angel_n in_o this_o life_n and_o at_o the_o last_o gasp_n death_n to_o be_v no_o death_n but_o a_o strait_a passage_n to_o eternal_a life_n further_o this_o new_a name_n be_v say_v to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o white_a stone_n that_o be_v in_o the_o pledge_n of_o absolution_n which_o show_v the_o union_n of_o these_o two_o absolution_n and_o regeneration_n so_o that_o who_o the_o lord_n of_o his_o mercy_n absolve_v from_o their_o sin_n they_o in_o his_o bounty_n he_o bring_v to_o a_o new_a estate_n and_o condition_n he_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n 2._o cor._n 5.17_o a_o point_n to_o be_v observe_v as_o yield_v special_a advice_n to_o reform_v the_o gross_a and_o common_a abuse_n of_o christ._n man_n persuade_v themselves_o that_o christ_n be_v their_o saviour_n and_o will_v pardon_v their_o sin_n for_o he_o be_v merciful_a and_o thereupon_o they_o take_v occasion_n to_o live_v as_o they_o list_v but_o let_v no_o man_n herewith_o deceive_v himself_o for_o they_o that_o have_v absolution_n have_v regeneration_n also_o a_o new_a condition_n of_o life_n go_v with_o the_o fruition_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n they_o that_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n have_v not_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n the_o corruption_n of_o sin_n must_v be_v abolish_v where_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n be_v absolve_v and_o their_o life_n be_v reform_v that_o have_v their_o sin_n remit_v here_o some_o man_n may_v say_v why_o be_v not_o those_o call_v by_o this_o new_a name_n to_o who_o christ_n give_v it_o for_o usual_o man_n be_v call_v after_o their_o name_n the_o answer_n be_v make_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n because_o no_o man_n know_v that_o name_n save_v he_o that_o receive_v it_o that_o be_v in_o that_o manner_n and_o certainty_n as_o he_o that_o 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day_n for_o some_o certain_a time_n carry_v a_o faggot_n for_o his_o own_o burn_n in_o the_o end_n second_o from_o this_o end_n of_o life_n all_o that_o have_v not_o repent_v must_v learn_v not_o to_o defer_v their_o repentance_n but_o now_o begin_v while_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n and_o in_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o spend_v the_o whole_a time_n of_o their_o life_n the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o endeavour_n while_o we_o live_v shall_v be_v this_o to_o get_v a_o room_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n which_o we_o can_v never_o have_v without_o repentance_n next_o consider_v who_o it_o be_v that_o give_v this_o time_n of_o repentance_n neither_o man_n nor_o angel_n have_v this_o time_n in_o his_o hand_n but_o the_o power_n of_o appoint_v it_o belong_v unto_o christ_n alone_o hereby_o than_o all_o person_n whatsoever_o be_v to_o be_v admonish_v without_o delay_n to_o repent_v the_o young_a man_n will_v take_v his_o pleasure_n in_o his_o youth_n and_o repent_v when_o he_o be_v old_a but_o hereby_o he_o rob_v christ_n of_o his_o honour_n who_o only_o have_v power_n to_o point_v out_o the_o time_n of_o repentance_n use_v therefore_o the_o time_n present_a while_o thou_o have_v it_o and_o defer_v not_o repentance_n for_o how_o know_v thou_o that_o thou_o shall_v live_v to_o be_v old_a and_o though_o thou_o do_v yet_o how_o can_v thou_o tell_v whether_o god_n will_v give_v thou_o repentance_n consider_v thou_o do_v refuse_v while_o he_o call_v for_o it_o man_n think_v that_o if_o they_o die_v quiet_o and_o peaceable_o all_o be_v well_o they_o go_v to_o heaven_n straight_o but_o herewith_o many_o be_v deceive_v for_o unless_o they_o have_v true_o repent_v they_o go_v straight_o to_o the_o devil_n let_v their_o manner_n of_o die_v be_v what_o it_o will_n a_o quiet_a death_n be_v a_o comfortable_a thing_n but_o no_o sure_a sign_n of_o grace_n because_o it_o may_v come_v by_o reason_n of_o some_o easy_a linger_a sickness_n consider_v therefore_o we_o have_v no_o title_n 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for_o the_o pardon_n of_o their_o sin_n there_o be_v yet_o with_o the_o lord_n mercy_n in_o store_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v last_o christ_n say_v he_o give_v her_o space_n to_o repent_v of_o her_o fornication_n no_o doubt_v she_o have_v many_o other_o sin_n whereof_o she_o be_v to_o repent_v for_o no_o sin_n go_v alone_o but_o every_o capital_a sin_n draw_v many_o with_o it_o christ_n his_o meaning_n therefore_o be_v not_o that_o she_o shall_v let_v pass_v other_o sin_n without_o repentance_n but_o he_o name_v this_o one_o sin_n of_o fornication_n because_o it_o be_v a_o principal_a sin_n in_o she_o for_o she_o both_o practise_v it_o in_o her_o own_o body_n and_o so_o make_v herself_o the_o stable_n of_o the_o devil_n who_o shall_v have_v be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n and_o also_o maintain_v this_o sin_n and_o so_o draw_v other_o thereto_o now_o special_a and_o principal_a repentance_n must_v be_v of_o principal_a sin_n use_n here_o then_o be_v a_o pattern_n 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have_v near_o plunge_v our_o soul_n to_o the_o pit_n of_o hell_n and_o with_o that_o we_o must_v begin_v to_o bring_v our_o soul_n to_o heaven_n by_o repent_v true_o for_o the_o same_o and_o turn_v from_o it_o with_o all_o our_o heart_n hence_o the_o papist_n gather_v that_o man_n have_v free_a will_n to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v true_o good_a before_o god_n as_o namely_o to_o repent_v for_o say_v they_o god_n give_v jesabell_n space_n of_o time_n to_o repent_v and_o therefore_o she_o have_v power_n to_o repent_v or_o else_o the_o give_v of_o that_o time_n unto_o she_o have_v be_v in_o vain_a answ._n their_o reason_n be_v nought_o it_o follow_v not_o because_o god_n give_v her_o time_n to_o repent_v therefore_o she_o have_v power_n of_o herself_o to_o repent_v as_o will_v easy_o appear_v if_o we_o consider_v the_o end_n for_o which_o god_n give_v man_n space_n &_o time_n of_o repentance_n and_o commandment_n so_o to_o do_v the_o end_n be_v two_o i._o that_o in_o that_o time_n of_o 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be_v to_o be_v consider_v i._o where_o this_o sin_n of_o impenitency_n be_v forbid_v in_o god_n word_n ii_o what_o be_v the_o greatness_n of_o this_o sin_n for_o the_o first_o there_o be_v two_o part_n of_o god_n word_n the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n which_o must_v not_o be_v confound_v but_o distinguish_v or_o else_o we_o shall_v overturn_v many_o point_n of_o christian_a religion_n the_o law_n give_v commandment_n touch_v thing_n that_o be_v by_o nature_n in_o adam_n before_o his_o fall_n forbid_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v contrary_a to_o those_o virtue_n which_o be_v in_o his_o perfect_a nature_n but_o the_o gospel_n command_v &_o forbid_v thing_n that_o be_v above_o nature_n and_o in_o that_o part_n of_o god_n word_n be_v this_o
it_o be_v the_o learning_n of_o the_o devil_n wherein_o you_o may_v see_v his_o profound_a craft_n and_o policy_n where_o note_n that_o when_o christ_n will_v allege_v the_o speech_n of_o jezabell_n and_o her_o follower_n he_o do_v it_o with_o disgrace_n unto_o they_o for_o they_o count_v their_o doctrine_n deep_a learning_n but_o christ_n repeat_v their_o opinion_n call_v it_o the_o deepness_n of_o satan_n hence_o i_o gather_v use_n that_o christian_n can_v safe_o act_v and_o play_v the_o comedy_n of_o heathen_a man_n for_o they_o be_v full_a of_o many_o blasphemous_a speech_n and_o oath_n flat_a against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o repeat_v but_o with_o disgrace_n unto_o they_o for_o christ_n practice_n must_v be_v a_o pattern_n for_o our_o imitation_n he_o will_v not_o repeat_v so_o much_o as_o one_o word_n of_o a_o wicked_a woman_n without_o some_o note_n of_o disgrace_n if_o it_o be_v say_v they_o repeat_v these_o speech_n with_o disgrace_n and_o dislike_v i_o answer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o for_o if_o they_o do_v that_o will_v take_v away_o the_o whole_a comedy_n be_v full_a of_o such_o bad_a speech_n and_o this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o equity_n of_o god_n word_n thus_o to_o reason_n from_o christ_n example_n as_o they_o speak_v these_o word_n christ_n add_v first_o to_o show_v that_o the_o word_n go_v before_o be_v not_o his_o own_o but_o the_o word_n of_o jezabels_n follower_n touch_v her_o doctrine_n second_o to_o show_v the_o proud_a and_o presumptuous_a mind_n of_o heretic_n in_o maintain_v their_o wicked_a opinion_n thus_o have_v false_a teacher_n uphold_v their_o error_n by_o proud_a and_o swell_a word_n as_o jude_n the_o 16._o and_o 2._o pet._n 2.18_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n be_v not_o so_o maintain_v but_o in_o the_o humility_n and_o lowliness_n of_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o piety_n from_o a_o humble_a heart_n for_o god_n teach_v the_o lowly_a his_o way_n and_o give_v grace_n to_o the_o 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namely_o that_o all_o those_o that_o give_v themselves_o to_o maintain_v purity_n of_o doctrine_n and_o sincerity_n of_o life_n shall_v be_v safe_o preserve_v in_o the_o time_n of_o common_a judgement_n under_o the_o bless_a protection_n of_o god_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o be_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o their_o good_a and_o consider_v this_o mercy_n be_v offer_v to_o the_o godly_a we_o must_v hereby_o learn_v to_o become_v follower_n of_o this_o church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o be_v we_o must_v endeavour_n to_o maintain_v the_o pure_a truth_n of_o god_n holy_a word_n and_o withal_o have_v care_n to_o show_v forth_o sincerity_n of_o manner_n in_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n and_o endevor_v ourselves_o to_o walk_v in_o all_o the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n with_o cheerfulness_n hereby_o we_o shall_v get_v protection_n from_o common_a judgement_n when_o they_o be_v lay_v upon_o the_o wicked_a but_o if_o we_o partake_v with_o the_o wicked_a in_o their_o sin_n we_o shall_v 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not_o to_o be_v regard_v for_o it_o have_v it_o beginning_n six_o hundred_o year_n after_o the_o apostle_n time_n with_o who_o doctrine_n only_o we_o must_v content_v ourselves_o also_o the_o jewish_a religion_n we_o must_v not_o regard_v for_o they_o reject_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o papist_n we_o must_v renounce_v because_o it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o apostle_n teach_v but_o have_v it_o beginning_n by_o little_a and_o little_a long_a after_o their_o time_n if_o this_o commandment_n be_v safe_o keep_v which_o be_v lay_v on_o this_o church_n man_n will_v not_o be_v of_o so_o many_o religion_n but_o all_o will_v be_v of_o one_o religion_n cleave_v fast_o to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o content_v themselves_o with_o it_o which_o be_v the_o true_a rule_n for_o reformation_n of_o life_n and_o the_o right_a way_n to_o attain_v salvation_n last_o here_o be_v a_o rule_n and_o direction_n for_o those_o which_o will_v be_v of_o no_o 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life_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n charge_v timothy_n 3.14_o to_o keep_v the_o true_a pattern_n of_o wholesome_a word_n and_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v learn_v and_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o duty_n 3.15_o the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o christ_n for_o this_o cause_n give_v to_o his_o church_n both_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n ●1_n pastor_n to_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o purity_n in_o manner_n and_o teacher_n to_o maintain_v the_o purity_n of_o doctrine_n in_o soundness_n of_o judgement_n this_o therefore_o must_v admonish_v we_o that_o we_o have_v care_v not_o only_o to_o learn_v religion_n in_o our_o own_o person_n but_o also_o to_o convey_v the_o same_o to_o age_n follow_v that_o the_o purity_n thereof_o may_v be_v preserve_v to_o the_o come_n of_o christ._n
understanding_n of_o this_o place_n two_o question_n must_v be_v handle_v first_o how_o far_o forth_o do_v christ_n give_v this_o his_o power_n unto_o man_n answ._n christ_n sovereign_a and_o general_a power_n over_o the_o whole_a world_n be_v not_o indeed_o give_v to_o any_o creature_n nay_o it_o be_v incommunicable_a and_o can_v be_v convey_v from_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o person_n of_o any_o creature_n man_n or_o angel_n this_o truth_n we_o must_v hold_v of_o all_o christ_n office_n they_o be_v only_o in_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n and_o can_v pass_v from_o he_o to_o any_o other_o ii_o quest._n how_o then_o do_v christ_n say_v true_o that_o he_o will_v give_v he_o that_o overcom_v power_n over_o nation_n answ._n not_o that_o his_o sovereign_a power_n be_v actual_o give_v to_o the_o creature_n but_o because_o the_o creature_n be_v in_o christ_n have_v the_o fruit_n &_o benefit_n of_o this_o power_n in_o his_o salvation_n and_o this_o power_n be_v in_o they_o two_o way_n first_o hereby_o christ_n make_v all_o his_o servant_n be_v his_o member_n partaker_n of_o his_o glory_n in_o heaven_n whereas_o the_o whole_a world_n beside_o be_v condemn_v in_o hell_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v say_v to_o 2.6_o be_v raise_v up_o together_o and_o make_v to_o sit_v together_o in_o the_o heavenly_a place_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o again_o he_o say_v the_o 6.2_o saint_n shall_v judge_v the_o world_n not_o i●_n give_v sentence_n upon_o they_o but_o as_o witness_n and_o approver_n of_o christ_n his_o sentence_n for_o the_o elect_n shall_v first_o receive_v the_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n and_o then_o be_v take_v up_o into_o the_o cloud_n shall_v sit_v with_o christ_n and_o there_o approve_v of_o the_o just_a condemnation_n of_o all_o the_o wicked_a second_o by_o this_o power_n he_o enable_v those_o that_o be_v he_o in_o their_o own_o person_n to_o overcome_v all_o the_o enemy_n of_o their_o salvation_n his_o meaning_n then_o be_v this_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v howsoever_o my_o sovereign_a power_n over_o all_o creature_n in_o myself_o can_v be_v derive_v to_o any_o other_o yet_o by_o virtue_n of_o this_o my_o power_n i_o will_v exalt_v they_o that_o overcome_v to_o partake_v of_o my_o glory_n and_o will_v give_v they_o power_n in_o themselves_o over_o their_o sin_n over_o death_n hell_n the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o their_o salvation_n here_o then_o behold_v unto_o what_o exceed_v dignity_n every_o true_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v advance_v not_o in_o himself_o but_o in_o christ_n he_o have_v rule_v over_o nation_n and_o victory_n over_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o his_o salvation_n yea_o he_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o christ_n glory_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n whatsoever_o use_n for_o the_o privilege_n of_o every_o christian_n be_v to_o have_v power_n to_o judge_v the_o wicked_a world_n now_o as_o it_o be_v a_o shame_n for_o a_o judge_n that_o sit_v and_o condemn_v a_o murderer_n or_o a_o thief_n to_o be_v a_o thief_n or_o a_o murderer_n himself_o so_o it_o be_v for_o any_o christian_n to_o live_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n see_v he_o himself_o must_v condemn_v the_o world_n of_o those_o sin_n neither_o can_v we_o think_v that_o christ_n will_v ever_o advance_v he_o that_o live_v in_o sin_n to_o condemn_v the_o same_o in_o other_o unless_o he_o first_o reform_v it_o in_o himself_o second_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o privilege_n of_o a_o christian_n must_v be_v hide_v in_o our_o mind_n against_o the_o time_n of_o adversity_n and_o affliction_n and_o of_o the_o pang_n of_o death_n for_o he_o that_o have_v keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n all_o his_o life_n be_v a_o prince_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o shall_v rule_v over_o all_o his_o enemy_n and_o therefore_o though_o now_o he_o be_v afflict_v and_o wrong_v by_o they_o yet_o in_o christ_n he_o be_v their_o judge_n and_o shall_v one_o day_n condemn_v they_o that_o do_v he_o wrong_n and_o as_o for_o death_n it_o be_v subdue_v in_o christ_n and_o shall_v be_v no_o death_n unto_o he_o 1._o corin._n 15._o vers_fw-la 54._o again_o the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n be_v thus_o he_o shall_v feed_v and_o rule_v the_o nation_n 〈◊〉_d as_o a_o shepherd_n rule_v and_o feed_v his_o lamb_n with_o his_o book_n the_o papist_n upon_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n to_o peter_n john_n 21.16_o feed_v my_o sheep_n that_o be_v feed_v and_o rule_v my_o sheep_n will_v gather_v peter_n supremacy_n over_o the_o church_n in_o all_o the_o world_n but_o their_o gross_a abuse_n of_o that_o place_n will_v appear_v by_o compare_v it_o with_o this_o promise_n of_o christ_n to_o every_o one_o that_o overcom_v for_o if_o their_o collection_n be_v good_a then_o hence_o will_v follow_v that_o every_o christian_a man_n shall_v have_v the_o like_a supremacy_n and_o be_v a_o pope_n which_o how_o absurd_a it_o be_v every_o man_n may_v judge_v therefore_o that_o place_n in_o john_n must_v not_o be_v understand_v of_o any_o supremacy_n for_o there_o christ_n teach_v peter_n the_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o his_o office_n and_o duty_n from_o this_o first_o gift_n of_o christ_n the_o papist_n gather_v two_o thing_n i._o that_o the_o several_a saint_n in_o heaven_n be_v patron_n of_o country_n &_o kingdom_n as_o saint_n george_n for_o england_n saint_n de●is_n for_o france_n saint_n patrick_n for_o ireland_n etc._n etc._n second_o that_o we_o may_v pray_v unto_o saint_n for_o the_o saint_n rule_v the_o nation_n and_o therefore_o know_v all_o nation_n and_o if_o they_o know_v they_o than_o they_o must_v be_v pray_v unto_o but_o they_o swar●e_v from_o the_o meaning_n of_o this_o text_n for_o first_o it_o be_v not_o say_v that_o the_o saint_n shall_v have_v power_n one_o over_o one_o country_n and_o another_o over_o another_o but_o every_o saint_n have_v power_n over_o all_o nation_n second_o they_o have_v power_n over_o all_o nation_n not_o because_o they_o rule_v they_o actual_o but_o because_o they_o have_v the_o fruit_n and_o benefit_n of_o christ_n power_n whereby_o they_o be_v rule_v and_o for_o their_o second_o collection_n we_o must_v by_o nation_n understand_v not_o all_o church_n but_o unbeliever_n for_o the_o wicked_a be_v they_o that_o must_v be_v break_v like_o po●ters_n vessel_n now_o the_o faithful_a have_v not_o power_n over_o the_o church_n but_o over_o infidel_n &_o therefore_o both_o their_o collection_n be_v absurd_a i_o will_v give_v he_o the_o mor●●ng_a star_n here_o be_v the_o second_o benefit_n promise_v by_o christ_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v 28._o the_o morning_n star_n proper_o signify_v that_o bright_a star_n which_o rise_v a_o little_a before_o the_o sun_n some_o time_n of_o the_o year_n which_o the_o heathen_a call_n venus_n and_o hereby_o be_v mean_v christ_n himself_o as_o reu._n 22.16_o i_o be_o the_o bright_a morning_n star_n christ_n be_v call_v a_o star_n first_o because_o he_o illuminate_v all_o man_n with_o the_o light_n of_o understanding_n and_o his_o church_n with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n and_o that_o sufficient_o in_o all_o matter_n that_o concern_v salvation_n second_o to_o show_v that_o the_o prophesy_v utter_v by_o balaam_n touch_v christ_n who_o he_o call_v 24.17_o the_o star_n of_o jaacob_n be_v now_o fulfil_v when_o as_o christ_n by_o his_o apostle_n have_v plentiful_o reveal_v himself_o to_o all_o nation_n further_o he_o be_v call_v a_o morning_n star_n for_o that_o special_a resemblance_n which_o be_v between_o he_o and_o it_o for_o the_o morning_n star_n rise_v not_o in_o the_o beginning_n or_o middle_n of_o the_o night_n but_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o night_n towards_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o day_n when_o the_o sun_n be_v about_o to_o rise_v and_o then_o it_o shine_v bright_a than_o all_o other_o star_n even_o so_o christ_n he_o come_v not_o in_o the_o beginning_n or_o middle_n of_o the_o dark_a time_n under_o the_o law_n but_o in_o the_o last_o age_n of_o the_o world_n wherein_o after_o his_o incarnation_n he_o do_v shine_v most_o full_o to_o all_o nation_n so_o as_o there_o be_v no_o such_o light_n of_o knowledge_n before_o his_o come_n as_o have_v be_v since_o this_o peter_n verifi_v when_o he_o say_v 1.19_o we_o have_v a_o most_o sure_a word_n of_o the_o prophet_n to_o which_o you_o do_v well_o that_o you_o take_v heed_n as_o unto_o a_o light_n that_o shine_v in_o a_o dark_a place_n until_o the_o day_n d●wne_n and_o the_o day_n star_n arise_v in_o your_o heart_n where_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n and_o prophet_n be_v call_v a_o time_n of_o darkness_n and_o their_o preach_v then_o as_o a_o candlelight_n but_o the_o preach_n of_o christ_n under_o the_o gospel_n be_v as_o the_o day_n star_n which_o shine_v most_o bright_o he_o
be_v not_o call_v the_o morning_n star_n because_o he_o shine_v to_o all_o the_o world_n in_o all_o time_n as_o the_o morning_n star_n do_v but_o because_o he_o shine_v unto_o man_n in_o the_o last_o age_n of_o the_o world_n it_o be_v further_a say_v i_o will_v give_v he_o it_o where_o be_v promise_v fellowship_n and_o participation_n with_o christ_n a●_n he_o be_v this_o daystar_n and_o herein_o be_v two_o benefit_n comprise_v first_o perfect_a illumination_n whereby_o ignorance_n shall_v be_v whole_o take_v away_o after_o this_o life_n when_o as_o man_n shall_v know_v god_n full_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o a_o creature_n can_v know_v the_o creator_n second_o the_o light_n of_o perfect_a glory_n for_o by_o fellowship_n with_o christ_n we_o shall_v be_v make_v to_o shine_v as_o the_o star_n as_o daniel_n 3_o speak_v yea_o we_o shall_v become_v 1.12_o saint_n in_o light_n ●s_v the_o apostle_n say_v whereas_o christ_n compare_v himself_o to_o the_o morning_n star_n first_o use_n we_o see_v the_o gross_a error_n of_o many_o among_o we_o who_o live_v in_o blindness_n of_o mind_n and_o ignorance_n walk_v in_o their_o wicked_a lust_n and_o pleasure_n without_o care_n of_o keep_v faith_n or_o good_a conscience_n and_o yet_o persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o have_v part_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v be_v partaker_n of_o his_o light_n and_o glory_n but_o they_o be_v deceive_v for_o all_o such_o as_o live_v in_o blind_a ignorance_n and_o in_o sin_n be_v mere_a darkness_n and_o so_o can_v have_v no_o fellowship_n with_o christ_n who_o be_v that_o bright_a morning_n star_n for_o what_o fellowship_n can_v be_v between_o light_n and_o darkness_n this_o bright_a morning_n star_n serve_v only_o for_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o light_n thereof_o and_o walk_v by_o it_o but_o those_o that_o walk_v in_o the_o darkness_n of_o their_o sin_n have_v no_o benefit_n by_o it_o second_o see_v christ_n be_v this_o morning_n star_n we_o must_v have_v care_n to_o learn_v peter_n instruction_n namely_o labour_v that_o this_o bright_a star_n may_v rise_v and_o shine_v in_o our_o heart_n this_o we_o shall_v feel_v when_o we_o use_v those_o mean_n whereby_o the_o beam_n of_o this_o star_n may_v shine_v upon_o we_o not_o only_o for_o the_o enlighten_v of_o our_o mind_n but_o also_o for_o the_o heat_n and_o reviue_n of_o our_o freeze_a and_o dead_a heart_n for_o as_o the_o sun_n in_o the_o spring_n time_n quicken_v by_o it_o warm_a beam_n some_o thing_n that_o lie_v dead_a all_o winter_n so_o christ_n jesus_n this_o morning_n star_n by_o the_o beam_n of_o his_o grace_n do_v enlighten_v our_o mind_n and_o revive_v our_o dead_a and_o freeze_a heart_n and_o till_o such_o time_n as_o we_o feel_v these_o thing_n wrought_v in_o we_o we_o can_v say_v that_o this_o morning_n star_n be_v rise_v unto_o we_o or_o have_v shine_v into_o our_o heart_n three_o whereas_o christ_n appear_v in_o the_o morning_n when_o darkness_n be_v past_a we_o be_v hereby_o teach_v to_o lead_v our_o life_n in_o godliness_n righteousness_n sobriety_n and_o in_o all_o manner_n of_o upright_o and_o godly_a conversation_n for_o the_o night_n be_v past_a and_o the_o day_n be_v come_v wherein_o we_o may_v see_v to_o walk_v upright_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v cast_v off_o the_o unprofitable_a work_n of_o darkness_n as_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o rom._n 13.12_o and_o know_v this_o that_o those_o who_o in_o this_o light_n do_v not_o walk_v according_o but_o delight_n in_o sin_n the_o work_n of_o darkness_n shall_v one_o day_n have_v their_o fill_n he_o that_o love_v the_o dark_a 2●.30_n for_o the_o hide_v of_o his_o talon_n must_v be_v cast_v for_o his_o reward_n into_o utter_a darkness_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v 29._o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v christ_n commandment_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o conclusion_n but_o hereof_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o motive_n to_o proceed_v prou._n 15.32_o he_o that_o refuse_v instruction_n despise_v his_o own_o soul_n luk._n 9.62_o no_o man_n that_o put_v his_o hand_n to_o the_o plough_n and_o look_v back_o be_v apt_a to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n gal._n 6.9_o let_v we_o not_o be_v weary_a of_o well_o do_v for_o in_o due_a time_n we_o shall_v reap_v if_o we_o faint_v not_o 1._o cor._n 12.31_o desire_v you_o the_o best_a gift_n and_o i_o will_v show_v you_o a_o more_o excellent_a way_n the_o three_o chapter_n verse_n 1._o and_o write_v unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v at_o sardis_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n for_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a these_o word_n contain_v the_o five_o particular_a commandment_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n unto_o john_n wherein_o he_o be_v enjoin_v to_o write_v &_o send_v a_o special_a epistle_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o sardis_n of_o this_o commandment_n we_o have_v speak_v before_o the_o epistle_n itself_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o six_o first_o verse_n &_o it_o have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n &_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n in_o these_o word_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o this_o preface_n first_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o procure_v authority_n unto_o it_o it_o be_v in_o christ_n name_n who_o sovereignty_n be_v describe_v by_o two_o royalty_n that_o be_v by_o two_o prerogative_n or_o privilege_n belong_v to_o he_o as_o he_o be_v a_o sovereign_a king_n of_o his_o church_n the_o first_o be_v the_o have_v of_o the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o second_o his_o have_v of_o the_o seven_o star_n for_o the_o first_o royalty_n in_o the_o first_o chap._n vers_fw-la 4._o i_o show_v that_o by_o seven_o spirit_n be_v mean_v the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o who_o proceed_v all_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n that_o any_o man_n enjoy_v and_o therefore_o whereas_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o meaning_n be_v that_o he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o this_o be_v a_o royalty_n of_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v the_o king_n and_o head_n of_o his_o church_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o other_o servant_n of_o god_n as_o david_n peter_n and_o paul_n have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n answ._n it_o be_v true_a but_o not_o in_o the_o same_o manner_n with_o christ_n for_o he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n two_o way_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n &_o of_o his_o manhood_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o person_n in_o the_o trinity_n proceed_v from_o the_o son_n as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o father_n in_o regard_n of_o which_o proceed_v christ_n be_v say_v to_o send_v the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o to_o do_v whatsoever_o he_o do_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o to_o overcome_v death_n by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n and_o to_o rise_v from_o death_n to_o life_n second_o as_o christ_n be_v man_n he_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n because_o the_o holy_a ghost_n pour_v into_o he_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o gift_n whatsoever_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v 45.7_o anoint_a with_o the_o oil_n of_o gladness_n above_o his_o fellow_n and_o to_o be_v enrich_v with_o the_o perfection_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o that_o two_o way_n both_o for_o number_n and_o degree_n for_o number_v with_o man_n some_o have_v some_o grace_n and_o some_o man_n other_o but_o christ_n he_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o all_o man_n and_o all_o angel_n nay_o more_o grace_n in_o number_n then_o all_o man_n and_o all_o angel_n have_v and_o as_o they_o be_v in_o number_n perfect_a so_o they_o be_v perfect_a in_o degree_n for_o in_o measure_n they_o exceed_v the_o grace_n of_o all_o creature_n man_n or_o angel_n and_o therefore_o the_o father_n be_v say_v to_o have_v give_v the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o son_n 3.14_o without_o measure_n &_o thus_o much_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o first_o royalty_n of_o christ._n now_o the_o end_n why_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v to_o show_v that_o he_o be_v a_o most_o lively_a head_n of_o his_o church_n who_o be_v fill_v with_o plenty_n of_o all_o store_n of_o grace_n whereby_o he_o be_v able_a to_o enrich_v his_o church_n and_o to_o revive_v the_o member_n thereof_o who_o be_v dead_a in_o their_o sin_n and_o such_o indeed_o be_v the_o special_a state_n of_o this_o church_n first_o hence_o we_o learn_v use_n no_o man_n can_v have_v true_a fellowship_n with_o the_o
holy_a ghost_n but_o by_o christ_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o none_o can_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n but_o by_o christ._n and_o here_o the_o same_o be_v verify_v touch_v fellowship_n with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n especial_o for_o the_o obtain_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o concern_v eternal_a life_n this_o serve_v for_o our_o special_a instruction_n for_o among_o the_o papist_n there_o be_v many_o that_o have_v worthy_a and_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n as_o knowledge_n memory_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o in_o they_o be_v want_v the_o special_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o faith_n which_o justify_v &_o regeneration_n for_o touch_v assurance_n of_o these_o in_o themselves_o they_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v ignorant_a and_o whence_o come_v this_o but_o only_o from_o their_o want_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o christ_n of_o the_o papist_n as_o they_o teach_v he_o be_v a_o idol_n christ_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o to_o marvel_v though_o we_o see_v the_o most_o learned_a among_o they_o to_o scoff_n and_o mock_v at_o our_o doctrine_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n &_o certainty_n of_o election_n second_o we_o have_v many_o among_o we_o that_o will_v say_v they_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o christ_n &_o to_o have_v their_o sin_n pardon_v by_o he_o and_o yet_o you_o shall_v perceive_v in_o they_o no_o grace_n of_o knowledge_n or_o conscience_n of_o true_a obedience_n but_o these_o thing_n can_v stand_v together_o to_o wit_n looseness_n of_o life_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n &_o therefore_o these_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o for_o if_o they_o have_v christ_n they_o shall_v have_v his_o spirit_n and_o the_o grace_n thereof_o purge_v their_o heart_n for_o christ_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v never_o sever_v he_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n work_v in_o he_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n have_v a_o infallible_a token_n that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v he_o this_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o 〈◊〉_d union_n with_o christ_n jesus_n our_o head_n to_o become_v flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n &_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n that_o in_o he_o we_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o till_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n we_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o salvation_n wrought_v effectual_o in_o our_o heart_n the_o second_o royalty_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o he_o have_v the_o seven_o star_n that_o be_v the_o seven_o pastor_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n they_o be_v call_v star_n because_o in_o their_o ministry_n they_o enlighten_v man_n in_o the_o way_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n and_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v they_o because_o he_o be_v a_o sovereign_a lord_n over_o they_o &_o they_o be_v his_o servant_n for_o he_o appoint_v that_o person_n that_o shall_v be_v his_o minister_n among_o man_n he_o give_v he_o gift_n meet_v for_o his_o call_n he_o prescribe_v also_o unto_o he_o his_o office_n and_o duty_n but_o the_o pastor_n of_o church_n will_n some_o say_v be_v make_v by_o the_o church_n answ._n the_o right_a of_o ordain_v pastor_n belong_v to_o christ_n as_o his_o royalty_n the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o testify_v ratify_v &_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o approve_v of_o they_o who_o christ_n make_v and_o endue_v with_o gift_n and_o for_o that_o cause_n be_v the_o church_n say_v to_o call_v and_o ordain_v minister_n the_o end_n why_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v sovereignty_n over_o the_o minister_n be_v to_o strike_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n with_o conscience_n of_o his_o former_a negligence_n &_o to_o stir_v he_o up_o to_o diligence_n and_o carefulness_n in_o his_o place_n and_o indeed_o the_o consideration_n of_o christ_n sovereignty_n over_o they_o be_v a_o excellent_a motive_n to_o stir_v up_o all_o minister_n to_o be_v diligent_a in_o their_o place_n and_o so_o likewise_o all_o christian_n for_o consider_v that_o they_o be_v christ_n and_o the_o gift_n they_o have_v come_v from_o he_o this_o must_v move_v they_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o good_a duty_n for_o be_v christ_n they_o must_v give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o christ_n who_o they_o be_v if_o he_o will_v have_v we_o live_v we_o must_v be_v thankful_a because_o he_o be_v lord_n of_o life_n if_o our_o death_n will_v glorify_v he_o we_o must_v be_v content_a because_o we_o be_v his_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n contain_v two_o part_n a_o reproof_n of_o a_o vice_n with_o the_o remedy_n thereof_o vers._n 1.2.3_o and_o a_o praise_n or_o commendation_n vers_fw-la 4._o the_o reproof_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v i_o know_v all_o thy_o work_n they_o be_v all_o manifest_a unto_o i_o and_o i_o mislike_v of_o they_o so_o must_v these_o word_n be_v understand_v in_o this_o place_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o reproof_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a wherein_o be_v set_v down_o the_o fault_n of_o this_o church_n namely_o hypocrisy_n for_o that_o they_o pretend_v christian_n religion_n in_o outward_a profession_n but_o yet_o want_v the_o life_n of_o christianity_n &_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n for_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o reason_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v that_o be_v church_n round_o about_o thou_o judge_v and_o speak_v of_o thou_o as_o of_o a_o church_n that_o be_v bear_v anew_o in_o christ_n and_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o spirit_n for_o by_o life_n we_o must_v understand_v spiritual_a life_n not_o corporal_a but_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o thou_o be_v dead_a that_o be_v thou_o want_v true_a spiritual_a life_n by_o regeneration_n and_o be_v indeed_o dead_a in_o thy_o sin_n this_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o sharp_a reproof_n that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n may_v be_v true_o verify_v of_o diverse_a church_n in_o this_o age_n as_o first_o of_o the_o great_a church_n of_o rome_n who_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o pope_n as_o by_o their_o head_n that_o church_n have_v a_o name_n to_o be_v alive_a &_o in_o their_o own_o pretence_n it_o be_v the_o only_a true_a church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n but_o in_o truth_n and_o before_o god_n it_o be_v dead_a some_o say_v it_o be_v as_o a_o body_n full_a of_o disease_n and_o who_o throat_n be_v cut_v but_o yet_o the_o heart_n pant_v &_o life_n remain_v therein_o but_o we_o may_v say_v it_o have_v no_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a life_n but_o lie_v stark_o dead_a as_o a_o carcase_n in_o the_o grave_n the_o reason_n that_o some_o allege_v for_o it_o be_v of_o small_a moment_n first_o they_o say_v it_o have_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n which_o be_v a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o therefore_o it_o have_v some_o life_n ans._n first_o baptism_n be_v not_o always_o a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n for_o circumcision_n in_o who_o stead_n come_v baptism_n be_v a_o sacrament_n use_v of_o the_o samaritan_n when_o they_o be_v 1.9_o no_o people_n of_o god_n and_o so_o no_o church_n of_o god_n again_o baptism_n without_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v no_o infallible_a sign_n of_o a_o church_n it_o be_v but_o a_o seal_n pull_v from_o the_o writing_n or_o set_v to_o a_o bare_a paper_n to_o no_o use_n and_o further_o outward_a baptism_n without_o inward_a baptism_n be_v no_o note_n of_o a_o church_n but_o such_o be_v baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n it_o have_v not_o inward_a baptism_n join_v unto_o it_o neither_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n for_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v be_v a_o quite_o overturning_a of_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o outward_a baptism_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o church_n second_o i_o answer_v that_o baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o sacrament_n not_o to_o their_o synagogue_n but_o to_o the_o hide_a church_n of_o god_n among_o they_o for_o god_n have_v his_o church_n among_o they_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o popery_n there_o be_v always_o some_o among_o they_o that_o renounce_v their_o religion_n who_o god_n call_v home_o unto_o himself_o by_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v among_o they_o as_o the_o use_n of_o this_o sacrament_n the_o apostle_n creed_n and_o of_o other_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n for_o as_o god_n say_v to_o elias_n in_o ahab_n time_n 19.18_o i_o have_v reserve_v seven_o thousand_o that_o never_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o baal_n so_o may_v it_o be_v say_v of_o many_o among_o the_o papist_n god_n have_v there_o his_o secret_a church_n who_o never_o yield_v to_o the_o pope_n government_n
or_o not_o to_o obey_v and_o therefore_o the_o cause_n why_o some_o man_n lie_v dead_a in_o sin_n be_v because_o they_o set_v their_o will_n to_o refuse_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o cause_n why_o some_o man_n live_v in_o christ_n be_v because_o they_o incline_v their_o will_n to_o embrace_v the_o grace_n of_o god._n but_o this_o doctrine_n do_v great_o diminish_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o that_o it_o make_v the_o acceptance_n thereof_o to_o lie_v and_o depend_v on_o the_o pleasure_n and_o will_n of_o man_n when_o as_o the_o power_n of_o almighty_a god_n join_v with_o his_o will_n be_v the_o true_a cause_n thereof_o leave_v some_o to_o themselves_o who_o do_v fall_v and_o enable_v other_o to_o stand_v by_o his_o grace_n now_o follow_v the_o word_n of_o this_o commendation_n notwithstanding_o thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n yet_o in_o sardie_a that_o be_v there_o be_v yet_o in_o this_o church_n a_o few_o person_n know_v to_o i_o by_o their_o name_n for_o by_o name_n we_o must_v understand_v person_n name_v which_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n here_o to_o omit_v many_o exposition_n be_v a_o allusion_n to_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n wherein_o god_n set_v down_o a_o distinction_n between_o thing_n clean_a and_o unclean_a not_o in_o themselves_o but_o by_o his_o appointment_n and_o among_o the_o jew_n if_o any_o man_n have_v but_o touch_v a_o unclean_a thing_n with_o his_o hand_n or_o with_o his_o garment_n thereby_o he_o be_v defile_v and_o his_o garment_n defile_v legal_o and_o so_o he_o or_o his_o garment_n be_v repute_v unclean_a whereupon_o they_o have_v a_o special_a care_n not_o to_o touch_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v defile_v no_o not_o with_o their_o garment_n now_o this_o signify_v another_o thing_n unto_o they_o namely_o that_o they_o ought_v to_o abstain_v not_o only_o from_o the_o outward_a sin_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n but_o even_o from_o all_o occasion_n intention_n show_n and_o appearance_n of_o evil_a and_o in_o this_o place_n this_o be_v mean_v hereby_o that_o some_o in_o this_o church_n of_o sardie_n have_v so_o far_o make_v conscience_n of_o sin_n that_o they_o will_v not_o meddle_v with_o the_o very_a occasion_n and_o appearance_n of_o evil_a hereby_o we_o see_v that_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v but_o few_o in_o number_n for_o the_o body_n of_o this_o people_n be_v de●d_v in_o sin_n and_o a_o few_o only_o in_o this_o great_a place_n live_v in_o christ_n so_o christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n the_o flock_n to_o who_o the_o father_n 3●_n will_v give_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n be_v but_o a_o little_a flock_n the_o prophet_n isaiah_n be_v send_v 6.9_o to_o harden_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n for_o th●ir_a iniquity_n and_o 13._o the_o ten_o part_n only_o must_v be_v save_v and_o in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v say_v the_o way_n to_o hell_n be_v broad_a 13.1●_n and_o many_o there_o be_v that_o walk_n therein_o but_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n be_v straight_o and_o few_o there_o be_v that_o enter_v into_o it_o use_n hereby_o than_o we_o be_v teach_v not_o to_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o the_o multitude_n but_o of_o the_o few_o and_o better_a sort_n it_o be_v a_o foul_a sin_n that_o keep_v many_o from_o religion_n and_o bring_v they_o to_o destruction_n when_o they_o will_v live_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o world_n and_o as_o their_o forefather_n have_v do_v this_o be_v a_o false_a rule_n and_o a_o dangerous_a course_n thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n that_o be_v person_n who_o name_n i_o know_v &_o have_v record_v they_o be_v call_v name_n because_o christ_n observe_v and_o know_v they_o by_o their_o name_n where_o note_n that_o those_o that_o be_v the_o true_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v particular_o know_v unto_o christ_n 12.7_o the_o hair_n of_o your_o head_n be_v number_v say_v christ_n to_o his_o disciple_n much_o more_o be_v their_o name_n know_v again_o he_o bid_v they_o rejoice_v that_o their_o name_n 10.2_o be_v write_v in_o heaven_n and_o christ_n the_o good_a shepherd_n know_v his_o sheep_n and_o call_v they_o by_o their_o name_n joh._n 10.3_o this_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o endless_a comfort_n unto_o the_o people_n of_o god_n for_o what_o can_v cause_v a_o man_n more_o to_o rejoice_v than_o to_o know_v that_o his_o name_n particular_o be_v know_v to_o the_o king_n of_o king_n and_o that_o according_o he_o have_v special_a regard_n unto_o he_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v comfort_v moses_n and_o put_v courage_n into_o he_o in_o do_v the_o duty_n of_o his_o call_n he_o tell_v he_o that_o he_o be_v know_v unto_o he_o by_o 1●_n name_n yea_o this_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o man_n salvation_n 2.19_o the_o lord_n know_v who_o be_v he_o which_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n here_o they_o be_v commend_v for_o uprightness_n and_o sincerity_n of_o life_n and_o conversation_n in_o that_o they_o keep_v themselves_o from_o the_o very_a show_n and_o appearance_n of_o evil_a when_o as_o th●_n rest_n of_o this_o church_n be_v dead_a in_o sin_n in_o their_o example_n christ_n prescribe_v unto_o we_o a_o pattern_n of_o true_a piety_n how_o we_o ought_v to_o carry_v ourselves_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n on_o earth_n we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o a_o bare_a profession_n of_o religion_n and_o keep_v ourselves_o from_o gross_a sin_n only_o but_o abstain_v from_o the_o very_a show_n of_o evil_a yea_o more_fw-it particular_o here_o be_v three_o thing_n teach_v we_o touch_v sin_n first_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n in_o our_o own_o person_n second_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o keep_v ourselves_o from_o the_o contagion_n of_o sin_n in_o other_o either_o by_o give_v consent_n unto_o they_o or_o further_a &_o allow_v they_o any_o way_n therein_o three_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o abstain_v from_o the_o very_a occasion_n and_o show_v and_o appearance_n of_o sin_n so_o paul_n teach_v we_o 5.22_o to_o abstain_v from_o all_o appearance_n of_o evil_a ephes._n 5.3_o he_o will_v not_o have_v sundry_a sin_n as_o fornication_n uncleanness_n etc._n etc._n so_o much_o as_o once_o name_v thereby_o to_o give_v the_o least_o approbation_n unto_o they_o we_o must_v therefore_o look_v on_o this_o example_n lay_v it_o to_o our_o heart_n and_o conform_v our_o life_n unto_o it_o so_o shall_v we_o be_v good_a servant_n of_o god_n and_o have_v the_o same_o commendation_n with_o these_o few_o for_o true_a religion_n stand_v not_o in_o knowledge_n but_o in_o obedience_n and_o this_o be_v true_a obedience_n to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n in_o our_o own_o person_n to_o take_v heed_n of_o the_o infection_n of_o sin_n in_o other_o and_o to_o abstain_v from_o the_o appearance_n of_o evil_a a_o happy_a church_n shall_v we_o have_v if_o these_o thing_n be_v practise_v but_o this_o be_v the_o shame_n and_o reproach_n of_o our_o profession_n that_o we_o have_v no_o care_n of_o true_a obedience_n in_o ourselves_o and_o other_o whereby_o we_o shall_v glorify_v god_n and_o grace_v our_o holy_a religion_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n hence_o gather_v that_o a_o man_n after_o baptism_n may_v live_v without_o mortal_a sin_n for_o these_o few_o person_n in_o this_o church_n in_o their_o baptism_n put_v on_o christ_n and_o after_o keep_v themselves_o from_o all_o occasion_n of_o sin_n so_o as_o they_o have_v not_o commit_v any_o mortal_a sin_n but_o their_o collection_n be_v unsound_a for_o first_o though_o they_o have_v to_o this_o time_n abstain_v from_o all_o mortal_a sin_n yet_o how_o can_v they_o prove_v that_o they_o sin_v not_o afterward_o second_o they_o be_v say_v not_o to_o have_v defile_v their_o garment_n not_o for_o that_o they_o have_v not_o commit_v any_o sin_n but_o because_o they_o endeavour_v to_o keep_v themselves_o from_o the_o appearance_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o so_o must_v the_o obedience_n which_o be_v ascribe_v to_o god_n child_n in_o scripture_n be_v understand_v namely_o of_o their_o sincere_a purpose_n and_o endeavour_v to_o obey_v &_o so_o among_o we_o those_o that_o have_v a_o settle_a purpose_n &_o resolution_n to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n they_o be_v repute_v for_o keeper_n of_o the_o law_n for_o god_n in_o his_o child_n accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n and_o they_o shall_v walk_v with_o i_o in_o white_a after_o the_o commendation_n of_o these_o few_o christ_n add_v a_o promise_n of_o live_v with_o he_o in_o glory_n for_o so_o white_a garment_n have_v always_o be_v use_v to_o signify_v joy_n happiness_n life_n and_o glory_n ecclesiast_n 9.8_o at_o all_o time_n let_v thy_o garment_n be_v white_a that_o be_v take_v the_o delight_n and_o pleasure_n in_o use_v the_o creature_n
of_o god_n so_o that_o here_o these_o few_o have_v a_o promise_n to_o be_v free_v from_o all_o want_n and_o to_o live_v with_o christ_n in_o all_o glory_n joy_n and_o pleasure_n this_o benefit_n have_v be_v in_o effect_n further_o urge_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n here_o only_o i_o will_v note_v one_o doctrine_n namely_o that_o they_o which_o live_v in_o the_o world_n among_o the_o wicked_a and_o do_v not_o communicate_v with_o their_o sin_n shall_v not_o partake_v with_o they_o in_o their_o punishment_n for_o the_o body_n of_o this_o church_n must_v have_v christ_n to_o come_v amongst_o they_o as_o a_o thief_n but_o the_o godly_a must_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a in_o glory_n 19_o lot_z be_v free_v from_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o sodomite_n because_o he_o partake_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o among_o the_o israelite_n 9.6_o those_o that_o mourn_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o people_n be_v mark_v in_o the_o forehead_n that_o when_o judgement_n come_v upon_o the_o wicked_a they_o may_v be_v spare_v this_o point_n must_v be_v remember_v for_o by_o reason_n of_o long_a peace_n and_o prosperity_n among_o we_o many_o sin_n abound_v as_o ignorance_n atheism_n contempt_n of_o religion_n and_o profane_v of_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n with_o innumerable_a sin_n of_o the_o second_o table_n all_o which_o call_v for_o judgement_n from_o heaven_n and_o no_o doubt_n they_o will_v be_v punish_v partly_o in_o this_o life_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v unless_o our_o people_n do_v repent_v those_o therefore_o that_o will_v not_o partake_v of_o the_o common_a judgement_n that_o be_v to_o come_v must_v now_o beware_v that_o they_o communicate_v not_o with_o the_o common_a sin_n that_o d●e_v abound_v and_o see_v that_o they_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n have_v their_o righteous_a and_o zealous_a heart_n grieve_v for_o the_o abomination_n among_o which_o they_o live_v after_o the_o promise_n be_v adjoin_v the_o reason_n thereof_o for_o they_o be_v worthy_a hence_o the_o church_n of_o room_n do_v conclude_v that_o a_o man_n by_o his_o work_n may_v merit_v heaven_n because_o they_o be_v worthy_a of_o reward_n a_o most_o blasphemous_a conclusion_n and_o a_o manifest_a abuse_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god._n god_n child_n indeed_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a but_o not_o by_o the_o merit_n of_o their_o work_n worthiness_n for_o than_o they_o shall_v be_v do_v according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n but_o for_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o person_n when_o as_o they_o stand_v righteous_a before_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o when_o god_n will_v save_v any_o man_n he_o give_v christ_n unto_o that_o man_n true_o and_o real_o so_o as_o he_o may_v say_v christ_n be_v i_o and_o with_o christ_n god_n give_v his_o spirit_n which_o work_v in_o his_o heart_n true_a save_v faith_n whereby_o he_o do_v receive_v christ_n and_o so_o christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n belong_v unto_o that_o man_n reallye_o and_o by_o virtue_n thereof_o he_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a and_o this_o be_v the_o worthiness_n which_o christ_n mean_v in_o this_o place_n and_o not_o any_o worthiness_n of_o their_o work_n so_o that_o this_o do_v help_v they_o nothing_o at_o all_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v the_o most_o probable_a place_n of_o scripture_n to_o prove_v and_o justify_v the_o doctrine_n of_o man_n merit_n vers._n 5._o he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n vers._n 6._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o it_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o promise_n and_o a_o commandment_n the_o promise_n in_o the_o five_o verse_n and_o the_o commandment_n in_o the_o six_o in_o the_o promise_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v whereof_o we_o have_v speak_v 2.7_o before_o second_o the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n glory_n and_o eternal_a happiness_n which_o be_v express_v three_o way_n first_o thus_o he_o shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n so_o much_o be_v signify_v by_o white_a ●ayment_n as_o we_o have_v already_o show_v hence_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n conclude_v that_o a_o man_n may_v do_v good_a work_n respect_v a_o reward_n use_n answer_n in_o some_o sort_n it_o be_v true_a for_o so_o it_o be_v record_v of_o moses_n hebr._n 11.26_o he_o have_v respect_n to_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n but_o yet_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n must_v not_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o our_o good_a work_n for_o chief_o we_o must_v thereby_o intend_v to_o testify_v our_o faith_n and_o our_o obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o with_o that_o we_o may_v have_v respect_n to_o everlasting_a life_n the_o second_o thing_n promise_v and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n for_o the_o understanding_n of_o this_o two_o question_n must_v be_v scan_v first_o what_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v second_o whether_o a_o man_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o first_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o god_n predestination_n or_o eternal_a decree_n of_o election_n whereby_o he_o have_v choose_v some_o man_n unto_o salvation_n upon_o his_o good_a pleasure_n and_o this_o be_v call_v a_o book_n because_o it_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o book_n for_o as_o the_o general_n in_o a_o camp_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o soldier_n that_o fight_v under_o he_o in_o a_o book_n and_o as_o the_o magistrate_n of_o a_o town_n have_v the_o name_n of_o every_o free_a man_n and_o denison_n in●owled_v so_o god_n in_o the_o book_n of_o his_o election_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o that_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o the_o second_o question_n a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n two_o way_n either_o true_o before_o god_n or_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n only_o those_o who_o name_n be_v true_o before_o god_n write_v in_o this_o book_n can_v be_v blot_v out_o for_o god_n counsel_n touch_v the_o eternal_a state_n of_o every_o man_n be_v unchangeable_a this_o the_o golden_a chain_n of_o god_n decree_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o who_o he_o have_v predestinate_a 8.30_o they_o he_o have_v call_v and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o also_o he_o justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o he_o also_o glorify_v other_o there_o be_v that_o have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o this_o book_n only_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o thus_o be_v all_o man_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n that_o profess_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n for_o so_o charity_n bind_v we_o to_o judge_v of_o they_o and_o these_o may_v have_v their_o name_n blot_v out_o in_o this_o sense_n do_v the_o scripture_n often_o speak_v as_o when_o the_o prophet_n wish_v 69.28_o that_o god_n will_v blot_v his_o enemy_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n meaning_n judas_n principal_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v make_v manifest_a his_o name_n be_v never_o write_v therein_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o this_o promise_n that_o they_o who_o do_v avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v blot_v out_o hence_o i_o gather_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o respect_n of_o god_n be_v certain_a for_o the_o name_n of_o those_o which_o be_v to_o be_v save_v be_v as_o it_o be_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o be_v once_o write_v in_o they_o remain_v there_o for_o ever_o some_o do_v teach_v that_o all_o may_v be_v save_v if_o they_o will_v but_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a fancy_n of_o man_n for_o what_o shall_v th●●e_v need_n any_o book_n of_o life_n if_o that_o be_v so_o second_o hence_o i_o gather_v that_o this_o number_n can_v neither_o increase_v nor_o be_v diminish_v let_v man_n do_v wha●_n they_o can_v if_o they_o have_v be_v of_o we_o they_o will_v have_v continue_v with_o us._n 1._o joh._n 2.19_o all_o that_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o have_v i_o keep_v and_o none_o of_o they_o be_v lose_v joh._n 17.12_o whereas_o a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n to_o wit_n use_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o yet_o be_v blot_v out_o hereby_o we_o be_v to_o be_v admonish_v to_o look_v
unto_o ourselves_o and_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o every_o sin_n and_o to_o avoid_v and_o shun_v the_o very_a occasion_n thereof_o for_o so_o long_o as_o we_o profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o obey_v the_o same_o our_o name_n be_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o when_o we_o commit_v any_o sin_n we_o do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v make_v a_o pen_n and_o reach_v it_o up_o to_o heaven_n to_o blot_v our_o name_n out_o of_o that_o book_n and_o they_o that_o keep_v a_o course_n in_o sin_v do_v plain_o show_v that_o they_o be_v never_o true_o write_v therein_o second_o consider_v that_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a be_v certain_a it_o must_v be_v a_o motive_n to_o cause_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o some_o a●●●rance_n of_o election_n that_o we_o may_v true_o say_v we_o have_v our_o name_n write_v in_o god_n book_n but_o here_o some_o bad_a person_n will_v say_v see_v the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_n be_v unchangeable_a i_o will_v live_v as_o i_o list_v for_o if_o my_o name_n be_v in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n it_o shall_v never_o be_v blot_v out_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o it_o can_v never_o be_v add_v ans._n these_o man_n deceive_v their_o own_o soul_n for_o they_o that_o have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n shall_v live_v as_o these_o few_o do_v in_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n in_o true_a faith_n and_o holy_a obedience_n for_o he_o that_o be_v ordain_v to_o glorification_n be_v ordain_v to_o justification_n and_o sanctification_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o he_o that_o shall_v be_v save_v to_o live_v always_o in_o sin_n and_o therefore_o these_o man_n must_v rather_o labour_v to_o repent_v and_o believe_v and_o to_o get_v some_o sign_n of_o their_o election_n that_o they_o may_v know_v that_o their_o name_n be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n the_o three_o benefit_n be_v this_o i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n that_o be_v in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n i_o will_v acknowledge_v and_o profess_v he_o to_o be_v i_o one_o of_o my_o elect_a that_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n i_o will_v take_v he_o from_o the_o company_n of_o the_o wicked_a world_n and_o set_v he_o on_o my_o right_a hand_n and_o advance_v he_o to_o glory_n pronounce_v upon_o he_o the_o bless_a voice_n of_o absolution_n come_v thou_o bless_v of_o my_o father_n mat._n 25.34_o the_o end_n why_o this_o benefit_n be_v thus_o propound_v be_v to_o draw_v this_o church_n to_o profess_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o world_n for_o if_o they_o will_v profess_v christ_n before_o man_n he_o will_v acknowledge_v they_o for_o his_o own_o at_o the_o last_o day_n use_n this_o same_o reason_n here_o propound_v must_v induce_v we_o to_o make_v a_o true_a confession_n of_o christ_n against_o the_o world_n &_o all_o christ_n enemy_n which_o to_o do_v be_v a_o very_a hard_a matter_n and_o man_n of_o himself_o can_v stand_v out_o but_o yet_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o that_o christ_n will_v confess_v he_o at_o the_o last_o day_n will_v be_v a_o notable_a motive_n and_o mean_n to_o enable_v he_o thereto_o if_o a_o earthly_a prince_n shall_v come_v to_o a_o man_n among_o a_o great_a company_n and_o call_v he_o by_o his_o name_n speak_v kind_o unto_o he_o he_o will_v esteem_v it_o a_o great_a honour_n unto_o he_o and_o for_o that_o he_o will_v not_o stick_v to_o die_v in_o the_o prince_n cause_n oh_o then_o what_o honour_n be_v this_o that_o christ_n jesus_n will_v in_o the_o last_o day_n vouchsafe_v to_o all_o those_o that_o in_o this_o life_n do_v sincere_o confess_v he_o and_o overcome_v he_o will_v confess_v they_o to_o be_v he_o and_o receive_v they_o to_o his_o own_o glory_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a those_o that_o will_v not_o confess_v he_o here_o but_o disgrace_v he_o either_o by_o false_a doctrine_n or_o profaneness_n of_o life_n will_v christ_n at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n utter_o disgrace_n by_o deny_v they_o to_o be_v his_o and_o there_o pronounce_v upon_o they_o the_o fearful_a sentence_n of_o condemnation_n go_v you_o curse_v etc._n etc._n which_o if_o we_o will_v then_o escape_v and_o also_o procure_v unto_o we_o the_o joyful_a voice_n of_o absolution_n we_o must_v here_o labour_v to_o hold_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n doctrine_n &_o also_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n but_o if_o we_o only_o profess_v he_o in_o judgement_n and_o not_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o a_o holy_a life_n sure_o christ_n will_v profess_v that_o he_o know_v we_o not_o and_o then_o give_v we_o our_o portion_n with_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n the_o commandment_n follow_v vers_fw-la 6._o let_v he_o &c_n &c_n of_o which_o we_o have_v speak_v verse_n 7._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v of_o philadelphia_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o be_v holy_a and_o true_a which_o h●th_v the_o key_n of_o david_n which_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v here_o begin_v the_o six_o particular_a epistle_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n from_o this_o verse_n to_o the_o 14._o and_o before_o it_o as_o to_o the_o rest_n be_v prefix_v a_o special_a commandment_n unto_o john_n whereby_o he_o be_v enjoin_v to_o write_v this_o epistle_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n the_o end_n of_o which_o commandment_n be_v to_o warrant_v the_o call_n of_o john_n to_o write_v this_o epistle_n but_o of_o this_o we_o have_v speak_v before_o the_o epistle_n itself_o contain_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n and_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n in_o this_o verse_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o etc._n etc._n wherein_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v send_v namely_o in_o christ_n where_o as_o in_o the_o former_a epistle_n he_o be_v excellent_o describe_v for_o the_o win_n of_o more_o credit_n unto_o this_o epistle_n and_o that_o first_o by_o his_o property_n holiness_n and_o truth_n second_o by_o his_o kingly_a office_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v for_o his_o property_n first_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v holy_a quest._n how_o can_v christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v holy_a as_o he_o be_v man_n consider_v he_o descend_v from_o adam_n who_o c●●ueyed_v his_o sin_n and_o the_o guilt_n thereof_o to_o all_o his_o posterity_n the_o common_a answer_n be_v this_o that_o indeed_o christ_n descend_v from_o adam_n as_o he_o be_v man_n but_o his_o substance_n be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o womb_n of_o the_o virgin_n and_o thereby_o he_o be_v free_v from_o adam_n sin_n this_o answer_n be_v true_a but_o not_o sufficient_a for_o man_n beside_o the_o corruption_n original_a take_v from_o adam_n the_o guiltiness_n of_o that_o sin_n which_o adam_n commit_v now_o sanctification_n take_v away_o the_o corruption_n of_o sin_n but_o not_o the_o guilt_n thereof_o therefore_o a_o more_o full_a answer_n be_v this_o that_o all_o which_o come_v of_o adam_n by_o natural_a generation_n do_v receive_v by_o that_o order_n which_o god_n set_v in_o nature_n at_o the_o creation_n say_v increase_n &_o multiply_v both_o the_o nature_n of_o adam_n and_o the_o sin_n &_o guilt_n thereof_o but_o god_n for_o the_o prevent_n of_o this_o in_o the_o incarnation_n of_o christ_n ordain_v that_o christ_n shall_v not_o come_v of_o adam_n by_o natural_a generation_n but_o by_o a_o miraculous_a conception_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n whereby_o he_o take_v the_o nature_n of_o man_n with_o the_o infirmity_n thereof_o without_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n nature_n or_o the_o the_o guiltiness_n thereof_o and_o thus_o be_v christ_n free_a from_o sin_n as_o he_o be_v man_n further_o christ_n be_v holy_a two_o way_n in_o himself_o and_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o church_n in_o himself_o he_o be_v holy_a sundry_a way_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o godhead_n for_o his_o divine_a nature_n be_v holiness_n itself_o second_o as_o he_o be_v man_n for_o his_o manhood_n be_v not_o only_o free_v from_o all_o manner_n of_o sin_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o miraculous_a conception_n but_o it_o be_v also_o enrich_v and_o fill_v with_o holiness_n and_o that_o in_o great_a measure_n than_o all_o man_n and_o angel_n for_o he_o receive_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n without_o measure_n and_o again_o as_o he_o be_v man_n christ_n be_v holy_a in_o regard_n of_o his_o obedience_n and_o action_n for_o live_v on_o earth_n he_o do_v actual_o as_o our_o surety_n fulfil_v the_o law_n for_o us._n second_o christ_n be_v holy_a in_o regard_n of_o his_o church_n first_o because_o he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o that_o holiness_n which_o be_v in_o every_o member_n of_o his_o church_n
be_v plain_a in_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n and_o may_v also_o be_v show_v by_o manifold_a example_n of_o such_o man_n in_o all_o age_n but_o to_o come_v to_o our_o time_n in_o the_o day_n of_o queen_n marie_n when_o religion_n be_v in_o banish_v this_o our_o famous_a school_n of_o the_o prophet_n cambridge_n have_v many_o learned_a man_n in_o it_o yet_o not_o one_o of_o they_o stand_v out_o for_o the_o defence_n of_o the_o gospel_n when_o as_o a_o poor_a secular_a priest_n not_o three_o mile_n off_o who_o be_v far_o behind_o they_o in_o gift_n of_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n yet_o have_v the_o truth_n reveal_v unto_o he_o do_v stand_v out_o for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o the_o same_o even_o to_o the_o seal_n of_o it_o with_o his_o blood_n and_o at_o this_o day_n many_o man_n of_o small_a gift_n in_o the_o ministry_n do_v more_o further_a the_o gospel_n by_o the_o increase_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n crucify_v and_o true_a obedience_n than_o those_o that_o be_v enrich_v with_o far_o great_a gift_n of_o knowledge_n both_o in_o tongue_n and_o art_n so_o as_o though_o they_o be_v many_o hundred_o degree_n short_a in_o regard_n of_o school-learning_n yet_o they_o go_v as_o far_o before_o they_o in_o benefit_v god_n church_n if_o this_o be_v so_o will_n some_o say_v than_o it_o be_v needless_a for_o man_n to_o be_v bring_v up_o so_o much_o in_o the_o school_n of_o learning_n ans._n not_o so_o for_o as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v god_n minister_n ought_v to_o have_v knowledge_n of_o school-learning_n both_o in_o art_n and_o tongue_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o it_o oft_o come_v to_o pass_v by_o god_n providence_n that_o the_o great_a clerk_n for_o learning_n be_v less_o profitable_a to_o the_o church_n than_o man_n of_o small_a gift_n this_o god_n do_v to_o humble_v the_o learned_a that_o they_o be_v not_o proud_a in_o themselves_o and_o to_o magnify_v the_o work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o the_o weak_a instrument_n further_o these_o word_n must_v also_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o then_o they_o bear_v this_o sense_n i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o a_o open_a door_n that_o be_v i_o have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o thou_o a_o special_a privilege_n even_o liberty_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n from_o whence_o we_o observe_v that_o liberty_n to_o life_n everlasting_a be_v a_o special_a priu●ledge_n belong_v not_o to_o all_o man_n but_o only_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o the_o true_a member_n of_o christ._n this_o point_n have_v sundry_a use_n i._o to_o confute_v this_o erroneous_a opinion_n that_o christ_n do_v effectual_o redeem_v all_o and_o every_o man_n which_o be_v ●●at_a against_o god_n word_n and_o this_o text_n for_o those_o that_o be_v effectual_o redeem_v have_v liberty_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n but_o all_o man_n have_v not_o that_o liberty_n for_o than_o it_o be_v no_o privilege_n of_o god_n church_n alone_o to_o have_v heaven_n open_v unto_o they_o ii_o see_v this_o be_v a_o privilege_n which_o god_n vouchsafe_v unto_o his_o church_n to_o have_v heaven_n gate_n open_v unto_o they_o hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o take_v the_o benefit_n of_o this_o liberty_n while_o the_o door_n be_v open_a and_o in_o time_n to_o strive_v to_o enter_v therein_o for_o as_o christ_n tell_v nathaniel_n the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n shall_v by_o faith_n see_v heaven_n open_a 5●_n we_o must_v not_o therefore_o neglect_v this_o opportunity_n but_o it_o be_v our_o common_a shame_n that_o we_o be_v slack_a in_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o righteousness_n thereof_o suffer_v ourselves_o so_o to_o be_v clog_v with_o heap_n of_o sin_n and_o worldly_a lust_n that_o we_o can_v neither_o walk_v in_o that_o straight_a way_n nor_o enter_v into_o that_o door_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n for_o sin_n be_v ●n_o heavy_a burden_n like_o a_o great_a pack_n that_o will_v not_o suffer_v a_o man_n to_o enter_v into_o so_o strait_a a_o door_n we_o must_v therefore_o cast_v off_o all_o sin_n that_o he_o may_v so_o enter_v in_o and_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o life_n and_o no_o man_n can_v shut_v it_o here_o be_v the_o continuance_n of_o the_o former_a benefit_n against_o all_o adversary_n power_n whatsoever_o and_o this_o again_o confute_v another_o opinion_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n with_o the_o former_a to_o wit_n that_o christ_n die_v for_o every_o man_n but_o yet_o some_o be_v not_o save_v because_o they_o will_v not_o they_o shut_v heaven_n door_n against_o themselves_o but_o this_o opinion_n can_v stand_v for_o none_o can_v shut_v heaven_n door_n against_o they_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v set_v it_o open_v effectual_o neither_o sin_n satan_n nor_o the_o world_n no_o not_o man_n himself_o nor_o all_o their_o power_n together_o for_o herein_o be_v the_o will_n of_o man_n rule_v by_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o look_v who_o god_n will_v have_v to_o enter_v into_o heaven_n they_o do_v he_o incline_v to_o will_v their_o own_o salvation_n and_o also_o make_v unwilling_a ever_o to_o shut_v this_o door_n against_o themselves_o for_o thou_o have_v a_o little_a strength_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v thou_o be_v endue_v with_o some_o measure_n of_o grace_n as_o of_o faith_n hope_n and_o righteousness_n and_o according_a to_o that_o measure_n thou_o have_v maintain_v my_o word_n and_o not_o deny_v my_o name_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o a_o man_n endue_v with_o a_o small_a measure_n of_o god_n grace_n may_v do_v work_n please_v unto_o god_n &_o by_o the_o same_o grace_n come_v to_o life_n ●uerlasting_a christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n 17.20_o if_o your_o faith_n be_v as_o much_o as_o a_o grain_n of_o mustard_n seed_n by_o it_o shall_v you_o be_v able_a to_o remove_v mountain_n now_o that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o the_o faith_n of_o miracle_n may_v in_o like_a sort_n be_v say_v of_o all_o faith_n and_o so_o of_o justify_v faith_n if_o a_o man_n have_v never_o so_o small_a a_o measure_n thereof_o yet_o thereby_o he_o shall_v do_v work_n acceptable_a to_o god_n for_o as_o paul_n teach_v god_n child_n receive_v not_o the_o ten_o but_o 23_o the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v a_o small_a measure_n of_o grace_n in_o this_o life_n which_o be_v only_o a_o pledge_n of_o that_o which_o they_o shall_v full_o receive_v in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v for_o this_o cause_n be_v rahab_n commend_v for_o her_o faith_n 31_o although_o it_o be_v but_o small_a and_o weak_a as_o we_o shall_v see_v if_o we_o read_v the_o whole_a history_n josh●_n 2_o for_o god_n accept_v of_o man_n according_a to_o that_o he_o have_v receive_v it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n that_o save_v a_o man_n as_o the_o truth_n of_o grace_n before_o god_n this_o serve_v notable_o for_o the_o comfort_n of_o those_o that_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n use_n such_o be_v most_o dismay_v by_o reason_n of_o their_o want_n &_o corruption_n but_o they_o must_v know_v that_o god_n approve_v of_o their_o grace_n though_o it_o be_v but_o small_a if_o so_o be_v they_o have_v care_n to_o increase_v in_o grace_n and_o do_v strive_v to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v ii_o hereby_o every_o one_o must_v be_v encorage_v to_o embrace_v and_o obey_v true_a religion_n many_o be_v dismay_v herein_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o obedience_n which_o they_o think_v god_n require_v and_o therefore_o they_o leave_v of_o all_o obedience_n but_o this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v so_o for_o god_n approve_v of_o a_o man_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o that_o grace_n which_o he_o have_v be_v it_o more_o or_o less_o and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o which_o by_o the_o law_n he_o ought_v to_o have_v and_o yet_o none_o of_o all_o this_o must_v make_v we_o slack_v and_o negligent_a in_o use_v those_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o for_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n that_o so_o we_o may_v also_o increase_v in_o true_a obedience_n and_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n here_o he_o set_v down_o two_o work_n for_o the_o which_o he_o commend_v this_o church_n first_o their_o faithful_a keep_n of_o the_o word_n of_o christ._n second_o the_o profession_n of_o his_o name_n in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n this_o behaviour_n of_o this_o church_n must_v be_v a_o pattern_n and_o a_o look_a glass_n for_o we_o to_o square_v our_o conversation_n by_o for_o these_o work_n thou_o have_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o name_n though_o the_o word_n be_v few_o yet_o they_o continue_v much_o in_o
of_o god_n for_o he_o will_v try_v we_o wonder_a it_o be_v to_o see_v how_o common_a the_o reproach_n of_o presizenesse_n be_v and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o well_o know_v that_o the_o world_n be_v full_a of_o atheist_n that_o may_v discourage_v many_o a_o christian._n but_o the_o remembrance_n of_o this_o trial_n wherein_o hypocrisy_n will_v vanish_v as_o the_o stubble_n before_o the_o fire_n must_v move_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o sincerity_n when_o we_o have_v do_v our_o best_a we_o shall_v be_v far_o short_a of_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o therefore_o through_o the_o reproach_n of_o the_o world_n let_v we_o hold_v on_o our_o good_a endeavour_n and_o labour_n to_o have_v the_o main_a grace_n of_o true_a faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n with_o a_o resolute_a purpose_n not_o to_o sin_n that_o so_o we_o may_v stand_v in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n but_o if_o we_o want_v these_o and_o live_v loose_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v like_o the_o foolish_a virgin_n that_o have_v only_o the_o blaze_a lamp_n of_o a_o outward_a profession_n and_o want_v the_o save_a oil_n of_o grace_n which_o may_v make_v we_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n at_o his_o appear_v we_o have_v be_v train_v up_o in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n what_o a_o shame_n will_v it_o be_v if_o when_o christ_n come_v to_o prove_v we_o we_o be_v then_o find_v barren_a and_o void_a of_o sound_a grace_n david_n bethink_v himself_o of_o this_o trial_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v conform_v himself_o unto_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o offer_v himself_o unto_o his_o trial_n say_v 2d_o lord_n prove_v i_o meaning_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n not_o of_o the_o perfectness_n of_o his_o own_o way_n and_o hereunto_o must_v we_o endeavour_v not_o suffer_v any_o sin_n to_o reign_v in_o us._n qu._n but_o how_o be_v this_o promise_n verify_v touch_v their_o deliverance_n from_o persecution_n see_v no_o church_n be_v free_a from_o it_o for_o even_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n whereof_o this_o in_o philadelphia_n be_v a_o principal_a one_o be_v persecute_v by_o traianus_n answ._n this_o and_o such_o like_a promise_n of_o deliverance_n to_o god_n child_n from_o trial_n and_o affliction_n must_v be_v understand_v not_o simple_o but_o with_o condition_n to_o wit_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o may_v be_v hurtful_a unto_o they_o and_o in_o the_o least_o measure_n hinder_v their_o salvation_n and_o indeed_o they_o be_v promise_n of_o deliverance_n from_o the_o evil_a of_o temptation_n and_o persecution_n not_o from_o persecution_n and_o temptation_n itself_o psal._n 91.10_o the_o lord_n promise_v to_o he_o that_o trust_v in_o god_n the_o plague_n shall_v not_o come_v near_o his_o dwell_n and_o yet_o by_o experience_n we_o know_v that_o god_n child_n in_o general_a plague_n be_v take_v away_o as_o well_o as_o other_o and_o therefore_o that_o promise_n must_v be_v understand_v of_o deliverance_n not_o from_o the_o plague_n itself_o but_o from_o the_o hurt_n thereof_o so_o as_o it_o shall_v not_o hinder_v the_o good_a or_o salvation_n of_o any_o in_o the_o godly_a man_n house_n we_o pray_v lead_v we_o not_o into_o temptation_n which_o we_o must_v not_o understand_v of_o freedom_n from_o all_o temptation_n for_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v be_v try_v but_o therein_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v not_o forsake_v we_o in_o our_o temptation_n or_o give_v we_o up_o whole_o to_o the_o power_n of_o the_o devil_n but_o that_o it_o may_v tend_v to_o our_o profit_n and_o not_o to_o our_o hurt_n as_o well_o in_o respect_n of_o grace_n as_o of_o salvation_n and_o so_o far_o forth_o be_v this_o promise_n accomplish_v to_o this_o church_n use_n the_o due_a consideration_n whereof_o be_v most_o comfortable_a to_o god_n church_n and_o people_n teach_v they_o not_o to_o fear_v the_o cross_n in_o any_o temptation_n god_n will_v have_v his_o church_n try_v but_o the_o faithful_a therein_o need_v not_o to_o be_v dismay_v for_o god_n by_o his_o promise_n have_v take_v away_o the_o evil_a and_o poison_n of_o all_o trial_n and_o temptation_n to_o they_o that_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n though_o they_o suffer_v a_o thousand_o cross_n in_o this_o world_n never_o so_o long_o yea_o though_o they_o die_v under_o the_o cross_n which_o may_v put_v comfort_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o any_o distress_a soul_n whatsoever_o &_o revive_v those_o that_o be_v oppress_v with_o temptation_n again_o in_o that_o this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v simple_o and_o absolute_o but_o with_o restraint_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v that_o the_o petition_n of_o those_o person_n which_o pray_v simple_o and_o absolute_o to_o be_v free_v from_o all_o temptation_n and_o adversity_n be_v not_o according_a to_o god_n will_v and_o word_n for_o every_o petition_n must_v depend_v upon_o some_o promise_n of_o god_n but_o we_o have_v no_o absolute_a promise_n of_o freedom_n from_o all_o trial_n and_o temptation_n but_o only_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o be_v evil_a and_o therefore_o in_o pray_v against_o temptation_n we_o must_v qualify_v our_o petition_n for_o temporal_a deliverance_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v so_o far_o forth_o as_o may_v most_o advance_v god_n glory_n and_o best_o further_a our_o salvation_n quest._n how_o can_v this_o great_a persecution_n be_v call_v but_o a_o hour_n of_o temptation_n see_v it_o last_v 14._o year_n answ._n in_o diverse_a respect_n it_o may_v be_v so_o call_v first_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n 3.3_o with_o who_o a_o thousand_o year_n be_v but_o as_o one_o day_n and_o therefore_o 14._o year_n with_o god_n be_v but_o as_o one_o hour_n second_o in_o regard_n of_o that_o punishment_n which_o every_o man_n by_o his_o sin_n deserve_v in_o hell_n eternal_o three_o in_o the_o affection_n of_o god_n people_n which_o be_v try_v when_o jacob_n serve_v laban_n seven_o year_n for_o rahell_n his_o affection_n make_v he_o think_v 20_o it_o be_v but_o a_o short_a time_n so_o when_o god_n child_n suffer_v for_o the_o name_n and_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o consideration_n thereof_o will_v make_v they_o think_v long_a affliction_n to_o be_v but_o short_a this_o affection_n cause_v paul_n to_o wish_v to_o himself_o eternal_a perdition_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o jew_n rom._n 9.3_o the_o end_n of_o this_o phrase_n touch_v the_o shortness_n of_o time_n be_v to_o comfort_v this_o and_o all_o other_o church_n in_o the_o time_n of_o this_o grievous_a persecution_n for_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o shortness_n of_o the_o time_n be_v a_o mean_n to_o ease_v any_o affliction_n and_o to_o arm_v a_o impatient_a man_n with_o some_o measure_n of_o contentation_n iii_o point_n the_o prophecy_n or_o prediction_n of_o this_o affliction_n be_v in_o these_o word_n which_o will_v come_v on_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n here_o christ_n foretell_v a_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o come_v simple_o by_o himself_o and_o from_o himself_o not_o by_o the_o help_n of_o any_o cause_n or_o any_o man_n or_o angel_n and_o hereby_o he_o prove_v himself_o to_o be_v true_a god_n for_o it_o be_v a_o property_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o true_a god_n of_o himself_o and_o by_o himself_o to_o foretell_v a_o thing_n to_o come_v before_o it_o can_v be_v see_v either_o in_o itself_o or_o in_o the_o cause_n thereof_o no_o man_n nor_o angel_n can_v so_o absolute_o foretell_v that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v but_o in_o their_o prediction_n they_o first_o see_v the_o thing_n present_v in_o their_o cause_n unless_o they_o be_v reveal_v unto_o they_o from_o god_n but_o some_o may_v here_o demand_v whether_o christ_n foreknowledge_n and_o prediction_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o this_o grievous_a persecution_n answ._n not_o so_o for_o thing_n come_v not_o to_o pass_v because_o of_o god_n foreknowledge_n thereof_o but_o because_o they_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v therefore_o god_n forsee_v &_o foretell_v they_o there_o be_v a_o high_a cause_n of_o all_o thing_n than_o prescience_n and_o prediction_n to_o wit_n the_o good_a will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o decree_n of_o god_n so_o christ_n be_v say_v 2.23_o to_o be_v deliver_v to_o be_v crucify_v by_o the_o determinate_a will_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n and_o from_o the_o same_o eternal_a counsel_n do_v this_o persecution_n under_o trajan_n original_o proceed_v for_o the_o first_o cause_n of_o the_o event_n of_o every_o thing_n be_v god_n decree_n either_o orday_v or_o dispose_v the_o same_o it_o will_v be_v say_v if_o this_o be_v so_o then_o be_v god_n the_o author_n of_o sin_n answ._n god_n forbid_v for_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n will_v and_o decree_n be_v
be_v say_v this_o temple_n of_o god_n in_o heaven_n be_v so_o far_o off_o that_o we_o can_v ascend_v or_o attain_v unto_o it_o how_o then_o shall_v we_o come_v thither_o christ_n answer_v that_o this_o new_a jerusalem_n come_v down_o from_o god_n out_o of_o heaven_n quest._n how_o will_n some_o say_v can_v heaven_n come_v out_o of_o heaven_n answ._n as_o paul_n say_v of_o christ_n that_o he_o be_v crucify_v among_o the_o galatian_n before_o their_o eye_n because_o his_o crucify_a be_v so_o lively_o represent_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o here_o heaven_n may_v be_v say_v to_o come_v down_o from_o god_n out_o of_o heaven_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o do_v most_o visible_o represent_v and_o set_v open_a heaven_n unto_o we_o that_o god_n people_n may_v enter_v therein_o by_o the_o faithful_a embrace_v whereof_o we_o become_v citizen_n with_o the_o saint_n and_o of_o the_o household_n of_o god_n ephe._n 2.19_o the_o three_o name_n which_o shall_v be_v write_v on_o he_o be_v christ_n new_a name_n whereby_o be_v not_o mean_v any_o title_n of_o christ_n as_o jesus_n mediator_n &c_n &c_n but_o the_o dignity_n power_n and_o glory_n of_o christ._n quest._n how_o can_v that_o be_v call_v new_a see_v he_o have_v power_n and_o glory_n from_o all_o eternity_n answ._n it_o be_v call_v new_a because_o it_o be_v receive_v of_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n god_n incarnate_a be_v that_o which_o be_v give_v to_o he_o after_o his_o death_n and_o passion_n stand_v in_o his_o rise_n again_o in_o his_o ascension_n and_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n hereof_o paul_n say_v phil._n 2.9_o god_n give_v he_o a_o name_n above_o every_o name_n that_o be_v dignity_n power_n and_o glory_n as_o it_o be_v expound_v heb._n 2.7_o and_o this_o glory_n power_n and_o dignity_n will_v christ_n give_v to_o they_o that_o overcome_v and_o thus_o we_o have_v eternal_a life_n set_v out_o unto_o we_o by_o the_o author_n of_o life_n himself_o the_o sum_n whereof_o be_v this_o that_o he_o which_o overcom_v shall_v be_v make_v a_o true_a member_n of_o the_o triumphant_a church_n and_o there_o continue_v for_o ever_o and_o shall_v have_v three_o name_n write_v on_o he_o the_o name_n of_o god_n have_v this_o make_v evident_a that_o he_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n the_o name_n of_o god_n city_n be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o god_n kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o new_a name_n of_o christ_n communicate_v with_o christ_n in_o his_o glory_n and_o majesty_n and_o christ_n do_v thus_o describe_v life_n eternal_a unto_o we_o for_o special_a cause_n which_o may_v be_v these_o i._o to_o comfort_v they_o which_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o encourage_v they_o against_o all_o hindrance_n and_o misery_n of_o this_o life_n for_o what_o can_v more_o hearten_v a_o man_n in_o good_a duty_n than_o to_o set_v before_o he_o his_o recompense_n and_o reward_v whereby_o we_o learn_v that_o in_o all_o misery_n and_o trouble_n that_o may_v befall_v we_o for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n we_o must_v comfort_v ourselves_o and_o not_o faint_a and_o to_o encourage_v we_o herein_o we_o be_v careful_o to_o propound_v and_o set_v before_o we_o the_o due_a consideration_n of_o life_n eternal_a for_o this_o it_o be_v that_o cause_v 11.24.25.26_o moses_n to_o despise_v worldly_a honour_n and_o to_o choose_v affliction_n with_o the_o people_n of_o god_n we_o must_v also_o look_v unto_o christ_n 12.2_o who_o for_o the_o joy_n that_o be_v set_v before_o he_o endure_v the_o cross_n and_o despise_a shame_n soldier_n that_o be_v uncerten_a of_o any_o reward_n be_v yet_o content_a under_o their_o general_n to_o adventure_v their_o life_n at_o his_o command_n how_o much_o more_o than_o aught_o christian_a soldier_n to_o fight_v manful_o and_o stand_v fast_o in_o all_o trouble_n for_o christ_n sake_n who_o have_v set_v before_o they_o such_o a_o great_a reward_n second_o it_o be_v thus_o describe_v to_o bring_v god_n people_n to_o a_o view_n and_o taste_v of_o life_n eternal_a that_o thereby_o they_o may_v the_o more_o affect_v it_o many_o cast_v off_o all_o care_n of_o religion_n and_o good_a conscience_n for_o the_o present_a delight_n of_o earthly_a thing_n they_o can_v see_v no_o goodness_n nor_o pleasure_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n the_o sweetness_n of_o earthly_a pleasure_n put_v man_n mouth_n out_o of_o taste_n in_o regard_n of_o any_o relish_n of_o life_n eternal_a but_o this_o must_v not_o be_v so_o with_o we_o we_o must_v be_v of_o moses_n mind_n who_o desire_v to_o see_v the_o land_n of_o canaan_n when_o he_o be_v not_o permit_v to_o enter_v into_o it_o and_o thereupon_o god_n take_v he_o up_o into_o mount_n nebo_n and_o show_v it_o unto_o he_o so_o consider_v christ_n have_v thus_o large_o describe_v this_o kingdom_n unto_o we_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o comprehend_v in_o our_o understand_n and_o in_o our_o heart_n to_o possess_v by_o faith_n something_o of_o life_n eternal_a though_o we_o can_v as_o yet_o full_o inherit_v the_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n thereof_o three_o it_o be_v thus_o describe_v to_o teach_v we_o to_o practice_v paul_n rule_n 1._o tim._n 6.12_o namely_o to_o pass_v through_o all_o the_o misery_n and_o trouble_n of_o this_o world_n and_o to_o take_v hold_n of_o eternal_a life_n this_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a duty_n but_o yet_o little_o practise_v man_n with_o both_o hand_n lay_v hold_v upon_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n upon_o riches_n and_o pleasure_n but_o who_o considere●h_v what_o be_v prepare_v by_o christ_n in_o heaven_n for_o they_o that_o overcome_v and_o who_o labour_v to_o lay_v hold_v thereof_o and_o to_o keep_v that_o sure_a though_o he_o lose_v all_o thing_n else_o last_o this_o description_n of_o eternal_a life_n here_o serve_v to_o make_v the_o people_n of_o god_n to_o fear_v no_o death_n though_o it_o be_v most_o cruel_a and_o terrible_a for_o death_n be_v but_o a_o straight_a door_n whereby_o the_o child_n of_o god_n must_v pass_v to_o all_o glory_n and_o happiness_n when_o he_o shall_v be_v make_v a_o pillar_n in_o god_n temple_n thus_o much_o general_o of_o the_o thing_n promise_v now_o follow_v in_o particular_a the_o part_n thereof_o first_o whereas_o christ_n promise_v to_o make_v they_o that_o overcomme_v pillar_n and_o chief_a member_n in_o the_o church_n triumphant_a hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o labour_n to_o become_v true_a member_n of_o god_n church_n in_o this_o life_n for_o life_n eternal_a must_v begin_v here_o and_o they_o that_o will_v be_v pillar_n in_o his_o church_n triumphant_a must_v now_o become_v member_n of_o his_o church_n militant_a for_o not_o only_a minister_n &_o teacher_n be_v pillar_n in_o god_n church_n though_o they_o be_v chief_a pillar_n therein_o but_o every_o one_o young_a and_o old_a man_n and_o woman_n that_o be_v a_o true_a believer_n and_o thus_o shall_v thou_o become_v a_o pillar_n in_o god_n church_n on_o earth_n by_o maintain_v &_o uphold_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n which_o thou_o must_v do_v partly_o by_o teach_v it_o to_o those_o who_o thou_o be_v bind_v to_o teach_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o they_o call_v and_o partly_o by_o good_a example_n of_o life_n and_o conversation_n and_o chief_o by_o a_o true_a and_o bold_a profession_n thereof_o not_o only_o in_o time_n of_o peace_n but_o even_o in_o the_o great_a trial_n and_o affliction_n second_o he_o add_v he_o will_v make_v he_o a_o pillar_n in_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n triumphant_a for_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n we_o have_v no_o other_o temple_n but_o god_n church_n triumphant_a and_o militant_a hereby_o than_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o renounce_v that_o ignorant_a opinion_n of_o the_o world_n who_o judge_v every_o material_a church_n to_o be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o as_o holy_a as_o the_o church_n in_o jerusalem_n be_v but_o the_o distinction_n of_o place_n and_o place_n in_o regard_n of_o holiness_n which_o be_v under_o the_o law_n be_v take_v away_o by_o christ._n the_o house_n be_v now_o as_o holy_a as_o the_o church_n church_n indeed_o must_v be_v regard_v and_o maintain_v not_o for_o holiness_n but_o for_o order_n sake_n now_o man_n may_v every_o where_o offer_v the_o calf_n of_o their_o lip_n and_o lift_v up_o pure_a hand_n from_o a_o pure_a heart_n unto_o god_n three_o i_o will_v write_v upon_o he_o the_o name_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v whereas_o god_n the_o father_n be_v my_o god_n first_o i_o will_v also_o communicate_v unto_o he_o the_o same_o name_n of_o god_n and_o he_o shall_v have_v god_n even_o my_o god_n to_o be_v his_o god_n also_o by_o this_o it_o be_v plain_a
that_o no_o man_n can_v have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o by_o christ_n we_o must_v not_o look_v to_o have_v immediate_a fellowship_n with_o god_n of_o ourselves_o or_o by_o any_o other_o but_o by_o christ_n god_n hear_v not_o god_n help_v not_o god_n save_v not_o but_o by_o christ_n nay_o god_n be_v no_o god_n unto_o we_o out_o of_o christ._n for_o first_o he_o be_v a_o god_n unto_o christ_n and_o then_o in_o he_o and_o by_o he_o unto_o us._n therefore_o if_o we_o will_v call_v upon_o god_n we_o must_v call_v on_o he_o through_o christ_n if_o we_o will_v give_v he_o thanks_n it_o must_v be_v in_o and_o by_o christ_n for_o in_o he_o only_o be_v we_o hear_v if_o we_o will_v know_v god_n it_o must_v be_v by_o christ_n for_o he_o be_v the_o very_a engraven_a image_n of_o his_o father_n in_o who_o be_v manife_v the_o wisdom_n justice_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o he_o dwell_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o godhead_n and_o to_o conceive_v of_o god_n out_o of_o christ_n be_v to_o make_v god_n a_o idol_n in_o the_o brain_n last_o if_o we_o will_v receive_v any_o temporal_a blessing_n from_o god_n it_o must_v be_v in_o and_o by_o christ_n as_o meat_n drink_n and_o clothing_n for_o if_o we_o receive_v they_o from_o god_n out_o of_o christ_n we_o be_v but_o usurper_n of_o they_o and_o the_o use_n thereof_o shall_v turn_v to_o our_o further_a condemnation_n four_o he_o say_v i_o will_v write_v on_o he_o the_o name_n of_o the_o city_n of_o my_o god_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v have_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n we_o do_v all_o desire_n and_o look_v for_o the_o inheritance_n of_o god_n kingdom_n after_o this_o life_n therefore_o here_o we_o must_v live_v as_o citizen_n of_o god_n kingdom_n conform_v ourselves_o to_o god_n commandment_n abandon_v all_o sin_n and_o so_o live_v in_o faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n that_o after_o this_o life_n we_o may_v assure_o persuade_v ourselves_o we_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o this_o kingdom_n five_o it_o be_v say_v this_o city_n of_o god_n be_v the_o new_a jerusalem_n which_o come_v down_o out_o of_o heaven_n from_o god_n that_o be_v by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n hereby_o we_o be_v teach_v more_o careful_o to_o seek_v to_o attain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n for_o behold_v god_n endless_a mercy_n herein_o our_o sin_n shut_v heaven_n gate_n against_o we_o but_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n he_o have_v open_v they_o and_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o make_v heaven_n come_v down_o unto_o man_n god_n therefore_o will_v not_o see_v we_o damn_v he_o have_v make_v open_a away_o even_o a_o new_a and_o live_a way_n whereby_o we_o may_v come_v to_o heaven_n and_o escape_n hell_n god_n have_v bring_v down_o heaven_n among_o man_n we_o must_v therefore_o with_o the_o people_n in_o john_n baptist_n time_n violent_o enter_v into_o this_o kingdom_n and_o strive_v to_o take_v it_o by_o force_n matt._n 11.12_o last_o he_o say_v i_o will_v write_v my_o new_a name_n on_o he_o that_o be_v i_o will_v make_v he_o partaker_n of_o that_o glory_n and_o digni●ie_v wherewith_o i_o myself_o be_o glorify_v since_o my_o death_n and_o resurrection_n mark_v this_o all_o that_o after_o this_o life_n must_v have_v christ_n new_a name_n must_v in_o this_o life_n become_v new_a creature_n so_o paul_n say_v 5.17_o if_o any_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n and_o again_o 6.15_o neither_o circumcision_n nor_o uncircumcision_n avail_v any_o thing_n but_o a_o new_a creation_n will_v we_o then_o partake_v with_o christ_n in_o his_o glory_n we_o must_v here_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o grace_n herein_o stand_v true_a religion_n to_o become_v new_a creature_n and_o not_o in_o bare_a knowledge_n and_o profession_n we_o must_v therefore_o put_v of_o 4.23.24_o the_o old_a man_n which_o be_v corrupt_a with_o sin_n and_o be_v renew_a in_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o m●●ds_n put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n but_o if_o we_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o image_n of_o the_o old_a man_n wherein_o we_o be_v bear_v we_o shall_v never_o partake_v of_o christ_n glory_n for_o this_o new_a name_n must_v be_v give_v to_o the_o new_a creature_n the_o old_a man_n and_o it_o can_v agree_v together_o vers._n 13._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n this_o conclusion_n have_v be_v handle_v in_o in_o the_o former_a epistle_n vers._n 14._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v amen_o that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n that_o beginning_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n here_o follow_v the_o seven_o and_o last_o epistle_n to_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n whereto_o be_v prefix_v a_o commandment_n unto_o john_n whereby_o he_o be_v authorise_v to_o pen_v the_o same_o in_o these_o word_n and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o laodicean_n write_v which_o have_v be_v handle_v before_o the_o epistle_n itself_o have_v three_o part_n a_o preface_n the_o substance_n or_o matter_n of_o the_o epistle_n and_o the_o conclusion_n the_o preface_n be_v this_o 14._o verse_n wherein_o be_v set_v down_o in_o who_o name_n this_o epistle_n be_v write_v to_o wit_n christ_n who_o be_v here_o describe_v by_o two_o argument_n i._o he_o be_v call_v amen_o which_o be_v that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n ii_o he_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n for_o the_o first_o amen_o be_v a_o hebrew_n aduerbe_n of_o asseveration_n signify_v as_o much_o as_o very_o true_o or_o certain_o this_o title_n be_v give_v to_o christ_n &_o the_o reason_n thereof_o be_v express_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v which_o be_v a_o full_a exposition_n of_o the_o same_o amen_n be_v that_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n so_o that_o christ_n be_v call_v amen_o to_o testify_v that_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o a_o true_a witness_n which_o title_n be_v give_v to_o christ_n in_o the_o 5._o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n where_o it_o be_v expound_v and_o reason_n render_v why_o he_o be_v so_o call_v unto_o which_o title_n be_v here_o add_v that_o he_o be_v a_o true_a witness_n because_o he_o speak_v the_o truth_n according_a as_o every_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o without_o error_n deceit_n or_o falsehood_n for_o that_o which_o he_o receive_v from_o his_o father_n be_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n which_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o truth_n that_o we_o may_v come_v to_o the_o right_a use_n of_o this_o argument_n we_o must_v first_o search_v out_o the_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v amen_o that_o a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n which_o by_o the_o content_n of_o the_o epistle_n we_o may_v easy_o guess_v to_o be_v these_o first_o to_o set_v forth_o himself_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n a_o example_n and_o pattern_n of_o fidelity_n in_o his_o ministry_n in_o the_o duty_n whereof_o he_o have_v be_v slack_a and_o negligent_a christ_n therefore_o by_o his_o own_o example_n will_v teach_v he_o without_o respect_n of_o person_n to_o instruct_v the_o church_n of_o god_n true_o and_o faithful_o how_o this_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v have_v be_v show_v before_o chap._n 1.5_o and_o not_o only_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n but_o also_o to_o all_o the_o church_n and_o to_o all_o they_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v his_o member_n do_v christ_n propound_v himself_o a_o example_n of_o two_o most_o worthy_a virtue_n faith_n and_o truth_n for_o the_o first_o faith_n be_v a_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n make_v good_a all_o his_o lawful_a word_n promise_n oath_n league_n compact_n and_o bargain_n whatsoever_o so_o as_o his_o word_n be_v as_o sure_a as_o a_o obligation_n as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v truth_n be_v another_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n without_o fraud_n lie_v or_o deceit_n speak_v the_o truth_n from_o his_o heart_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v know_v for_o his_o own_o good_a the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o other_o we_o therefore_o must_v set_v before_o our_o eye_n this_o precedent_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n as_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n yea_o a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n without_o any_o fame_a or_o falsehood_n so_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o show_v ourselves_o faithful_a in_o all_o lawful_a promise_n and_o true_a in_o all_o our_o speech_n that_o so_o by_o these_o virtue_n we_o may_v be_v know_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o christ_n through_o our_o whole_a life_n and_o conversation_n second_o
yet_o they_o will_v not_o take_v pain_n to_o read_v the_o same_o at_o least_o in_o such_o a_o constant_a course_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o do_v three_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n be_v break_v for_o though_o most_o man_n at_o set_a time_n will_v come_v into_o the_o congregation_n yet_o there_o be_v not_o that_o private_a sanctify_a of_o the_o sabbath_n after_o the_o congregation_n be_v dissolve_v which_o god_n word_n require_v but_o man_n betake_v themselves_o to_o their_o own_o affair_n and_o to_o outward_a delight_n to_o omit_v those_o that_o have_v no_o care_n at_o all_o of_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n in_o any_o sort_n now_o these_o person_n must_v needs_o want_v both_o knowledge_n obedience_n and_o all_o sound_a grace_n that_o will_v not_o set_v apart_o some_o time_n wherein_o they_o shall_v employ_v themselves_o in_o god_n word_n and_o by_o these_o sign_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o there_o be_v a_o grievous_a disease_n of_o negligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n that_o infect_v our_o congregation_n now_o where_o this_o negligence_n be_v though_o coldness_n be_v not_o there_o can_v be_v zeal_n and_o so_o luke-warmnesse_n must_v needs_o abound_v ii_o sign_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a the_o religion_n of_o most_o man_n be_v this_o in_o the_o general_a call_n of_o a_o christian_n they_o show_v religion_n but_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n where_o be_v religion_n in_o the_o church_n they_o be_v good_a christian_n but_o in_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n who_o show_v his_o religion_n for_o when_o as_o man_n shall_v practice_v their_o calling_n according_a to_o god_n word_n and_o true_a godliness_n they_o follow_v the_o desire_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n little_a conscience_n be_v make_v of_o lie_v and_o oppression_n that_o love_n and_o plain_a deal_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v between_o man_n and_o man_n be_v want_v which_o prove_v they_o plain_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a gospeler_n iii_o sign_n there_o be_v many_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a for_o though_o all_o general_o come_v to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o many_o when_o they_o see_v some_o make_v conscience_n to_o become_v answerable_a in_o some_o measure_n to_o the_o word_n which_o they_o hear_v and_o the_o sacrament_n which_o they_o receive_v do_v take_v up_o in_o their_o mouth_n this_o slander_n of_o precizenesse_n against_o they_o mock_v they_o for_o do_v that_o which_o in_o the_o word_n &_o sacrament_n themselves_o profess_v shall_v be_v do_v these_o man_n will_v not_o be_v enemy_n to_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n and_o they_o profess_v themselves_o not_o to_o be_v zealous_a by_o reproach_v zeal_n in_o other_o therefore_o they_o do_v more_o than_o these_o laodicean_n do_v even_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a for_o he_o that_o reproach_v another_o for_o zeal_n in_o religion_n brand_v himself_o with_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a and_o who_o know_v not_o how_o many_o of_o this_o ●ort_n be_v every_o where_o i_o dare_v with_o good_a conscience_n say_v our_o congregation_n general_o consist_v of_o such_o now_o mark_v what_o follow_v hereupon_o first_o that_o our_o common_a professor_n of_o religion_n be_v in_o worse_a case_n than_o heathen_a man_n jew_n and_o turk_n that_o know_v not_o christ._n this_o christ_n teach_v in_o prefer_v cold_a person_n before_o the_o lukewarm_a as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v rather_o thou_o were_v a_o pagan_a than_o a_o professor_n without_o zeal_n and_o 2.21_o saint_n peter_n to_o this_o purpose_n speak_v of_o such_o say_v it_o have_v be_v better_a they_o have_v never_o know_v the_o way_n of_o truth_n than_o after_o they_o have_v know_v it_o not_o to_o obey_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n so_o that_o unless_o there_o be_v further_a matter_n in_o we_o than_o knowledge_n and_o bare_a profession_n our_o case_n be_v worse_a than_o the_o case_n of_o jew_n and_o turk_n religion_n know_v will_v not_o make_v thou_o better_o than_o they_o but_o it_o be_v zeal_n and_o obedience_n that_o must_v prefer_v thou_o before_o they_o second_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o our_o estate_n i_o gather_v that_o we_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v spew_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n as_o lukewarm_a water_n out_o of_o the_o stomach_n this_o be_v the_o punishment_n here_o threaten_v which_o be_v write_v for_o our_o instruction_n that_o we_o may_v know_v where_o lukewarmenesse_a take_v place_n there_o this_o punishment_n will_v follow_v we_o may_v flatter_v ourselves_o as_o the_o man_n in_o the_o old_a world_n do_v &_o think_v all_o be_v well_o never_o regard_v till_o the_o judgement_n come_v but_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o sin_n we_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o church_n and_o from_o true_a society_n with_o christ_n god_n can_v do_v this_o sundry_a way_n either_o by_o bereave_v we_o of_o his_o gospel_n and_o make_v we_o as_o the_o heathen_a or_o by_o send_v the_o enemy_n among_o we_o to_o destroy_v and_o root_v we_o out_o of_o this_o land_n and_o even_o in_o our_o neighbor-countreys_n and_o town_n he_o set_v spectacle_n before_o we_o that_o by_o they_o we_o may_v see_v how_o he_o can_v spew_v we_o ou●_n &_o cut_v we_o off_o from_o be_v a_o people_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o fault_n namely_o lukewarmenesse_a vers._n 17._o for_o thou_o say_v i_o be_o rich_a and_o make_v rich_a and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a and_o poor_a &_o blind_a and_o naked_a here_o be_v the_o second_o sin_n of_o this_o church_n namely_o spiritual_a pride_n the_o word_n depend_v upon_o the_o former_a as_o a_o reason_n thereof_o before_o he_o charge_v they_o with_o deadness_n in_o religion_n and_o here_o he_o paint_v out_o the_o cause_n thereof_o namely_o spiritual_a pride_n of_o hart_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v thou_o think_v thus_o within_o thyself_o i_o be_o rich_a for_o it_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o express_v the_o thought_n of_o man_n by_o their_o speech_n because_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n be_v as_o evident_a to_o christ_n as_o any_o man_n speech_n can_v be_v to_o another_o use_n in_o that_o christ_n do_v express_v man_n secret_a thought_n and_o propound_v the_o same_o in_o this_o book_n we_o may_v hence_o gather_v that_o it_o be_v a_o part_n of_o canonical_a scripture_n for_o it_o be_v a_o privilege_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o set_v down_o the_o thought_n of_o country_n of_o church_n &_o of_o particular_a man_n even_o as_o they_o conceive_v they_o this_o can_v no_o man_n do_v in_o any_o book_n of_o his_o own_o devise_v and_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v a_o argument_n against_o atheist_n that_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n because_o they_o reveal_v man_n secret_a thought_n now_o follow_v the_o thought_n itself_o of_o the_o angel_n and_o people_n of_o this_o church_n i_o be_o rich_a that_o be_v i_o have_v many_o excellent_a gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n by_o this_o effect_n he_o express_v their_o spiritual_a pride_n in_o overween_a their_o estate_n before_o god_n this_o be_v a_o common_a sin_n in_o the_o world_n and_o ever_o have_v be_v christ_n say_v 5.32_o he_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n to_o repentance_n by_o righteous_a mean_v such_o as_o think_v themselves_o righteous_a and_o the_o 10._o proud_a pharisie_n in_o his_o prayer_n which_o he_o conceive_v in_o his_o heart_n think_v himself_o far_o better_o than_o the_o poor_a publican_n or_o other_o man_n and_o paul_n ●_o bring_v in_o the_o corinthian_n think_v proud_o of_o themselves_o say_v we_o be_v full_a and_o make_v rich_a etc._n etc._n this_o sin_n take_v place_n in_o the_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n who_o persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n by_o temporal_a work_n and_o fulfil_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o merit_n for_o themselves_o and_o for_o other_o to_o come_v to_o ourselves_o this_o same_o proud_a thought_n have_v place_n among_o us._n first_o we_o think_v we_o be_v rich_a in_o regard_n of_o knowledge_n both_o young_a and_o old_a scorn_n to_o be_v catechize_v because_o they_o will_v not_o seem_v to_o be_v ignorant_a some_o stick_v not_o to_o profess_v this_o pride_n by_o brag_v thus_o that_o they_o know_v as_o much_o for_o substance_n as_o any_o man_n can_v teach_v they_o when_o as_o indeed_o they_o know_v nothing_o but_o that_o which_o nature_n will_v teach_v a_o man_n second_o man_n plead_v that_o they_o have_v a_o most_o firm_a say_v so_o as_o they_o never_o doubt_v of_o god_n mercy_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o presumption_n of_o a_o proud_a heart_n for_o true_a faith_n be_v trouble_v with_o doubt_v
three_o man_n will_v profess_v that_o they_o be_v rich_a in_o love_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n when_o as_o they_o love_v the_o world_n and_o the_o pleasure_n thereof_o more_o than_o christ_n and_o so_o have_v no_o true_a love_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n four_o to_o make_v more_o plain_a that_o this_o spiritual_a pride_n reign_v in_o man_n heart_n mark_v this_o let_v any_o bodily_a calamity_n be_v make_v know_v to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v new_o befall_v he_o oh_o how_o be_v he_o present_o perplex_v but_o let_v god_n minister_v out_o of_o his_o word_n make_v know_v unto_o he_o his_o inward_a fearful_a estate_n that_o by_o reason_n of_o sin_n he_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o god_n judgement_n and_o a_o firebrand_n of_o hell_n he_o be_v not_o afraid_a worldly_a news_n do_v affright_v man_n much_o when_o as_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o word_n move_v they_o nothing_o what_o argue_v this_o but_o that_o their_o heart_n be_v forestalled_n with_o this_o false_a conceit_n i_o be_o rich_a the_o drunkard_n in_o his_o drunkenness_n the_o filthy_a person_n in_o his_o uncleanness_n and_o every_o man_n in_o his_o sin_n soothe_v himself_o with_o this_o god_n be_v merciful_a i_o be_o rich_a and_o in_o his_o favour_n he_o will_v not_o condemn_v i_o well_o it_o be_v thus_o manifest_a that_o spiritual_a pride_n be_v our_o common_a sin_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o see_v it_o in_o ourselves_o and_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n that_o it_o may_v be_v remove_v the_o mean_n follow_v afterward_o and_o increase_v with_o good_n or_o be_o make_v rich_a so_o the_o word_n be_v these_o word_n be_v add_v only_o for_o amplification_n to_o show_v that_o this_o church_n have_v not_o any_o small_a portion_n but_o a_o exceed_a measure_n of_o spiritual_a pride_n the_o double_n of_o the_o word_n show_v the_o strength_n of_o this_o conceit_n what_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o this_o church_n be_v grow_v to_o such_o a_o height_n of_o pride_n answ._n it_o may_v be_v it_o be_v knowledge_n wherewith_o no_o doubt_n the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n and_o many_o therein_o do_v abound_v now_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v 1_o that_o knowledge_n puss_v up_o this_o be_v true_a in_o all_o place_n great_a knowledge_n without_o special_a grace_n great_a pride_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o school_n of_o learning_n where_o knowledge_n abound_v there_o pride_n of_o heart_n abound_v and_o man_n be_v puff_v up_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o gift_n unless_o by_o his_o grace_n and_o the_o sight_n of_o their_o sin_n god_n do_v humble_a they_o and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o this_o be_v a_o further_a sign_n of_o their_o great_a pride_n that_o they_o think_v they_o need_v not_o the_o help_n of_o any_o thing_n or_o any_o person_n beside_o themselves_o and_o all_o such_o as_o think_v they_o have_v no_o need_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o wash_n away_o of_o their_o sin_n do_v surfeit_n and_o abound_v with_o this_o spiritual_a pride_n of_o heart_n this_o serve_v further_a to_o convince_v our_o congregation_n of_o this_o damnable_a spiritual_a pride_n if_o any_o one_o be_v sick_a in_o body_n he_o straight_o send_v to_o the_o physician_n but_o not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o seek_v to_o the_o minister_n till_o the_o pang_n of_o death_n draw_v near_o the_o soul_n disease_n by_o sin_n be_v not_o feel_v there_o be_v no_o complaint_n for_o want_v of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n but_o if_o we_o will_v be_v empty_v of_o this_o pride_n we_o must_v labour_v to_o see_v that_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o christ_n and_o every_o drop_n of_o his_o blood_n till_o such_o time_n as_o we_o feel_v that_o in_o we_o there_o be_v no_o goodness_n in_o our_o heart_n we_o be_v but_o the_o proud_a laodicean_n and_o our_o case_n be_v wretched_a and_o damnable_a and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a and_o poor_a and_o blind_a and_o naked_a christ_n intend_v to_o strike_v this_o sin_n of_o pride_n to_o the_o very_a heart_n do_v here_o set_v down_o the_o true_a cause_n thereof_o to_o wit_n ignorance_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v thou_o know_v not_o thy_o own_o natural_a estate_n as_o thou_o be_v bear_v of_o adam_n out_o of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o thou_o be_v proud_a and_o thy_o pride_n make_v thou_o lukewarm_a then_o he_o show_v whereof_o they_o be_v ignorant_a namely_o of_o their_o natural_a estate_n for_o the_o first_o christ_n make_v ignorance_n the_o cause_n of_o their_o pride_n teach_v we_o that_o pride_n be_v not_o the_o first_o sin_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n as_o many_o both_o papist_n and_o other_o have_v think_v true_a it_o be_v pride_n be_v a_o great_a and_o mother_n sin_n and_o the_o cause_n of_o many_o foul_a iniquity_n but_o yet_o ignorance_n be_v a_o mother_n sin_n whereof_o pride_n spring_v the_o cause_n why_o any_o person_n swell_v with_o pride_n in_o himself_o be_v ignorance_n of_o his_o own_o natural_a estate_n by_o this_o than_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o learn_v to_o know_v our_o own_o estate_n what_o we_o be_v by_o nature_n in_o ourselves_o without_o christ_n for_o that_o be_v the_o way_n to_o pull_v down_o our_o heart_n for_o this_o cause_n the_o prophet_n of_o god_n use_v to_o call_v man_n to_o a_o search_n of_o themselves_o zeph._n 2.1_o when_o they_o will_v bring_v the_o people_n to_o humility_n and_o grace_n that_o man_n see_v their_o estate_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a may_v be_v humble_v and_o cause_v to_o forsake_v themselves_o and_o come_v unto_o christ._n and_o sure_o till_o such_o time_n as_o man_n be_v humble_v for_o their_o sin_n they_o will_v never_o get_v sound_a grace_n but_o be_v as_o the_o proud_a pharisie_n hypocrite_n and_o dissembler_n though_o they_o have_v much_o knowledge_n but_o when_o a_o man_n have_v search_v his_o natural_a estate_n then_o beside_o knowledge_n of_o himself_o come_v other_o most_o excellent_a grace_n as_o humility_n the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o true_a obedience_n with_o good_a conscience_n and_o therefore_o first_o of_o all_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o be_v acquaint_v with_o our_o own_o estate_n in_o ourselves_o &_o with_o our_o personal_a sin_n &_o with_o god_n judgment_n due_a unto_o we_o for_o they_o for_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o true_a grace_n the_o spot_n and_o blemish_n of_o our_o body_n we_o can_v soon_o espy_v and_o wipe_v away_o and_o why_o shall_v we_o be_v less_o careful_a of_o our_o soul_n which_o be_v far_o better_a that_o christ_n may_v full_o make_v know_v unto_o they_o their_o ignorance_n of_o themselves_o it_o please_v he_o to_o desrcibe_v to_o they_o their_o natural_a estate_n &_o so_o proportional_o the_o natural_a condition_n of_o all_o church_n &_o of_o all_o people_n which_o be_v the_o state_n of_o man_n misery_n this_o he_o propound_v two_o way_n first_o general_o in_o these_o word_n and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a then_o by_o the_o part_n thereof_o which_o be_v three_o poverty_n blindness_n and_o nakedness_n for_o the_o first_o the_o word_n translate_v wretched_a signify_v one_o subject_a to_o calamity_n grief_n and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o all_o misery_n and_o that_o we_o may_v know_v who_o be_v thus_o wretched_a i_o will_v enter_v into_o a_o description_n of_o man_n misery_n whereof_o that_o we_o may_v conceive_v aright_o two_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v first_o the_o root_n and_o fountain_n thereof_o for_o therein_o we_o shall_v best_o see_v what_o misery_n mean_v this_o root_n be_v original_a sin_n and_o it_o have_v two_o branch_n first_o that_o particular_a transgression_n whereby_o adam_n sin_v which_o be_v not_o only_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o person_n but_o also_o of_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o man_n spread_v itself_o to_o all_o his_o posterity_n christ_n except_v second_o the_o deface_a of_o god_n image_n and_o the_o corrupt_a of_o man_n heart_n which_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o fall_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n have_v in_o it_o a_o pronesse_n unto_o all_o sin_n both_o in_o will_n affection_n and_o in_o all_o the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o these_o two_o stand_v original_a sin_n and_o in_o they_o and_o with_o they_o must_v we_o conceive_v of_o man_n misery_n as_o in_o the_o root_n thereof_o second_o we_o must_v conceive_v of_o man_n misery_n under_o the_o form_n of_o punishment_n have_v relation_n to_o the_o first_o sin_n of_o adam_n &_o to_o the_o corruption_n of_o each_o man_n nature_n thereby_o receive_v the_o punishment_n of_o sin_n must_v be_v consider_v sundry_a way_n according_a to_o the_o diverse_a kind_n of_o man_n be_v either_o in_o this_o world_n or_o after_o for_o it_o be_v either_o in_o this_o life_n or_o at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n or_o after_o this_o life_n
and_o so_o according_o be_v misery_n to_o be_v consider_v now_o of_o the_o punishment_n in_o this_o life_n some_o concern_v the_o whole_a man_n some_o the_o part_n of_o man_n some_o his_o estate_n punishment_n concern_v the_o whole_a man_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n the_o first_o be_v subjection_n to_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n whereby_o a_o man_n since_o adam_n fall_n be_v make_v the_o child_n of_o wrath_n a_o misery_n of_o all_o misery_n &_o yet_o the_o more_o grievous_a because_o without_o some_o grace_n a_o man_n can_v discern_v &_o see_v the_o same_o the_o second_o be_v a_o bondage_n under_o the_o devil_n whereby_o a_o man_n in_o his_o mind_n will_n &_o affection_n be_v subject_a every_o way_n to_o the_o will_n of_o the_o devil_n which_o though_o we_o can_v describe_v yet_o we_o may_v thus_o conceive_v of_o it_o the_o regenerate_a man_n say_v i_o sin_n but_o i_o will_v not_o sin_v the_o natural_a man_n say_v i_o sin_n and_o i_o will_v sin_v it_o be_v my_o nature_n to_o sin_n and_o my_o delight_n and_o this_o be_v the_o state_n of_o this_o church_n punishment_n concern_v the_o part_n of_o man_n be_v either_o misery_n of_o his_o soul_n or_o of_o his_o body_n the_o misery_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v these_o first_o in_o the_o understanding_n ignorance_n of_o god_n will_n and_o in_o sundry_a madness_n and_o foolishness_n and_o in_o all_o man_n pain_n and_o difficulty_n both_o to_o learn_v &_o remember_v whatsoever_o be_v good_a which_o be_v not_o in_o man_n by_o creation_n in_o the_o conscience_n also_o be_v accusation_n secret_a fear_n and_o terror_n in_o the_o will_n be_v rebellion_n to_o god_n will_v in_o all_o affection_n perverseness_n all_o which_o be_v misery_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o body_n also_o have_v these_o misery_n first_o it_o be_v subject_a to_o all_o infirmity_n sickness_n disease_n and_o ache_n which_o be_v so_o many_o as_o all_o the_o book_n of_o physician_n neither_o do_v nor_o can_v record_v the_o same_o second_o man_v body_n be_v mortal_a &_o subject_n to_o temporal_a death_n which_o no_o man_n can_v possible_o avoid_v or_o prevent_v by_o all_o the_o art_n and_o skill_n in_o the_o world_n punishment_n of_o man_n estate_n concern_v either_o his_o good_n or_o call_v in_o good_n there_o be_v these_o misery_n want_v of_o thing_n necessary_a for_o by_o reason_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v a_o punishment_n &_o in_o it_o own_o nature_n a_o curse_n and_o all_o the_o hurt_n that_o come_v by_o the_o creature_n for_o their_o enmity_n towards_o man_n &_o towards_o one_o another_o as_o also_o their_o subjection_n to_o vanity_n all_o these_o be_v misery_n and_o the_o punishment_n of_o man_n sin_n in_o man_n call_v there_o be_v misery_n for_o therein_o man_n be_v subject_a to_o trouble_v to_o loss_n and_o sorrow_n which_o come_v as_o a_o punishment_n of_o man_n first_o sin_n and_o all_o these_o be_v the_o misery_n of_o man_n in_o this_o life_n at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n come_v bodily_a death_n the_o separation_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n asunder_o which_o in_o itself_o be_v a_o most_o fearful_a curse_n for_o so_o it_o be_v the_o very_a gate_n of_o hell_n but_o after_o this_o life_n be_v the_o accomplishment_n of_o all_o misery_n &_o that_o be_v eternal_a destruction_n and_o condemnation_n in_o hell_n fire_n which_o to_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o misery_n appear_v by_o this_o because_o it_o be_v a_o separation_n of_o man_n person_n from_o the_o society_n &_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o a_o endure_a of_o god_n wrath_n in_o the_o whole_a person_n even_o in_o the_o place_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o damn_a soul_n &_o that_o not_o for_o a_o time_n but_o for_o ever_o and_o ever_o eternal_o and_o thus_o we_o see_v what_o punishment_n be_v and_o answerable_o what_o misery_n be_v whereby_o we_o may_v see_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wretched_a namely_o in_o a_o word_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o all_o misery_n whether_o we_o consider_v they_o in_o the_o r●ot_n thereof_o original_a sin_n or_o under_o the_o form_n of_o punishment_n in_o this_o life_n in_o the_o whole_a person_n and_o in_o soul_n &_o body_n several_o in_o good_n and_o call_v at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n and_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v the_o proper_a end_n that_o move_v christ_n to_o say_v to_o this_o church_n she_o know_v not_o that_o she_o be_v wretched_a be_v this_o to_o teach_v this_o church_n and_o in_o they_o we_o and_o all_o church_n to_o learn_v to_o know_v their_o own_o misery_n to_o feel_v the_o same_o and_o to_o be_v touch_v in_o conscience_n for_o they_o we_o therefore_o must_v learn_v not_o to_o ●●atter_v our_o self_n with_o hope_n of_o our_o good_a state_n but_o labour_n to_o see_v our_o misery_n both_o in_o sin_n &_o the_o punishment_n thereof_o and_o see_v it_o strive_v to_o be_v touch_v with_o it_o that_o we_o may_v cry_v with_o the_o jew_n 2.37_o what_o shall_v we_o do_v to_o be_v save_v for_o till_o such_o time_n as_o this_o in_o some_o measure_n be_v wrought_v in_o we_o we_o shall_v be_v but_o lukewarm_a professor_n have_v a_o show_n of_o godliness_n but_o want_v the_o power_n thereof_o the_o true_a sight_n of_o our_o misery_n be_v the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n but_o yet_o we_o must_v use_v all_o good_a mean_n that_o we_o may_v come_v to_o see_v the_o same_o &_o to_o be_v touch_v with_o it_o that_o so_o we_o may_v have_v heart_n hereby_o fit_a to_o receive_v the_o gospel_n which_o contain_v the_o remedy_n of_o this_o our_o misery_n and_o miserable_a that_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v pity_v this_o be_v add_v not_o to_o set_v down_o another_o thing_n but_o to_o express_v the_o greatness_n of_o their_o misery_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v thy_o misery_n be_v not_o small_a but_o so_o great_a and_o so_o grievous_a as_o indeed_o thou_o be_v in_o that_o regard_n to_o be_v pity_v of_o all_o man_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o we_o must_v not_o despise_v party_n miserable_a by_o reason_n of_o their_o sin_n use_n or_o scorn_n and_o contemn_v they_o but_o contrariwise_o lament_v &_o pity_v they_o when_o david_n see_v man_n sin_n and_o so_o pull_v heap_n of_o misery_n upon_o they_o 13●_n he_o shed_v river_n of_o tear_n the_o lord_n make_v it_o a_o good_a man_n property_n 9.4_o to_o mourn_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o the_o people_n jeremie_n 9.1_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o people_n wish_v his_o head_n be_v full_a of_o water_n and_o just_a lot_n 2.7.8_o grieve_v his_o righteous_a hart_n for_o the_o abomination_n of_o sodom_n it_o be_v the_o fault_n of_o the_o corinthian_n which_o paul_n reprove_v that_o when_o the_o incestuous_a man_n have_v sin_v that_o grievous_a sin_n 5._o they_o be_v not_o humble_v but_o puff_v with_o contempt_n against_o the_o party_n and_o it_o be_v a_o fault_n in_o sundry_a man_n at_o this_o day_n that_o they_o be_v not_o humble_v in_o themselves_o when_o they_o see_v other_o man_n sin_n we_o must_v not_o do_v so_o but_o show_v the_o grace_n we_o have_v above_o other_o in_o be_v grieve_v for_o the_o misery_n which_o man_n without_o grace_n by_o their_o sin_n pull_v daily_o upon_o they_o thus_o much_o of_o their_o misery_n in_o general_n the_o part_n of_o their_o misery_n be_v three_o which_o christ_n note_v particular_o that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a he_o may_v cause_v this_o church_n to_o lay_v aside_o this_o damnable_a pride_n for_o these_o in_o all_o man_n be_v main_a misery_n the_o first_o be_v poverty_n and_o poor_a that_o be_v proper_o one_o that_o have_v not_o a_o rag_n to_o his_o back_n nor_o bread_n to_o his_o mouth_n unless_o he_o beg_v the_o same_o of_o other_o but_o here_o it_o be_v take_v for_o one_o that_o be_v spiritual_o poor_a which_o poverty_n we_o shall_v better_o conceive_v if_o we_o do_v understand_v what_o be_v true_a spiritual_a riches_n true_a riches_n be_v god_n grace_n and_o savour_v in_o christ_n as_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o life_n everlasting_a the_o poor_a man_n therefore_o be_v he_o that_o want_v god_n favour_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o eternal_a life_n &_o have_v in_o he_o no_o good_a thing_n that_o be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n but_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v as_o silly_a and_o poor_a as_o any_o beggar_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o body_n the_o end_n why_o christ_n call_v this_o church_n poor_a be_v to_o beat_v down_o the_o proud_a conceit_n of_o she_o own_o good_a estate_n and_o to_o cause_v she_o to_o feel_v her_o spiritual_a poverty_n and_o so_o become_v poor_a in_o spirit_n and_o we_o in_o they_o be_v likewise_o teach_v to_o labour_n to_o feel_v our_o own_o poverty_n how_o by_o nature_n there_o be_v no_o goodness_n in_o we_o but_o we_o be_v utter_o destitute_a of_o the_o grace_n and_o
be_v the_o cheap_a and_o the_o chief_a merchandise_n that_o ever_o be_v set_v to_o sale_n which_o we_o may_v buy_v without_o money_n and_o yet_o it_o will_v make_v we_o rich_a for_o ever_o many_o labour_n in_o tafficke_n and_o take_v great_a pain_n and_o yet_o often_o loose_v thereby_o but_o make_v this_o bargain_n once_o and_o then_o thou_o shall_v never_o loose_v it_o nor_o any_o thing_n thereby_o but_o continue_v for_o ever_o rich_a in_o god_n verse_n 19_o as_o many_o as_o i_o love_v i_o rebuke_v and_o chasten_v be_v zealous_a therefore_o and_o amend_v because_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v so_o sharp_o rebuke_v this_o church_n they_o may_v thereby_o take_v occasion_n to_o distrust_n and_o despair_n of_o his_o favour_n and_o mercy_n here_o therefore_o it_o please_v he_o to_o take_v away_o all_o occasion_n of_o doubt_v after_o this_o sort_n if_o i_o use_v to_o rebuke_v &_o chasten_v all_o those_o who_o i_o love_v than_o you_o be_v not_o to_o despair_v of_o my_o mercy_n by_o reason_n of_o my_o sharp_a reproof_n whereby_o i_o have_v threaten_v to_o spew_v you_o out_o of_o my_o mouth_n for_o your_o sin_n of_o luke-warmnesse_n but_o thus_o i_o use_v to_o deal_v with_o all_o those_o who_o i_o love_v and_o therefore_o in_o this_o regard_n you_o need_v not_o to_o doubt_v of_o my_o love_n and_o favour_n the_o meaning_n as_o many_o as_o i_o love_v christ_n love_v the_o creature_n two_o way_n as_o he_o be_v creator_n and_o as_o he_o be_v redeemer_n as_o he_o be_v the_o creator_n he_o love_v all_o his_o creature_n with_o a_o common_a &_o general_a love_n whether_o they_o be_v live_v or_o dead_a reasonable_a or_o unreasonable_a as_o he_o be_v redeemer_n he_o love_v his_o creature_n with_o a_o special_a and_o a_o peculiar_a love_n which_o be_v not_o common_a to_o all_o but_o proper_a to_o that_o part_n of_o mankind_n which_o be_v choose_v to_o salvation_n before_o the_o world_n be_v and_o of_o this_o peculiar_a love_n he_o speak_v here_o i_o rebuke_v the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n which_o be_v translate_v rebuke_v 〈◊〉_d be_v more_o significant_a than_o can_v fit_o be_v express_v in_o any_o one_o english_a word_n thus_o much_o be_v mean_v thereby_o as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v first_o i_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o after_o reprove_v admonish_v and_o check_v they_o for_o the_o same_o and_o chasten_v this_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o a_o kind_n of_o correction_n which_o a_o father_n use_v on_o his_o child_n call_v nurture_v which_o be_v correction_n to_o break_v the_o child_n of_o his_o fault_n and_o bad_a manner_n and_o to_o teach_v he_o his_o duty_n this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n all_o those_o who_o i_o bear_v special_a favour_n unto_o do_v i_o convince_v of_o their_o particular_a fault_n and_o then_o check_v and_o reprove_v they_o and_o nurture_n they_o as_o a_o father_n do_v his_o child_n to_o make_v they_o leave_v their_o particular_a vice_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o obedience_n and_o to_o assure_v we_o that_o this_o be_v the_o true_a meaning_n read_v pro._n 3.12_o whence_o the_o word_n be_v take_v &_o heb._n 12.5_o where_o they_o be_v more_o full_o explain_v here_o then_o christ_n set_v down_o his_o ordinary_a deal_n with_o they_o who_o he_o take_v and_o choose_v to_o be_v his_o disciple_n and_o member_n namely_o he_o convince_v they_o of_o their_o fault_n he_o reprove_v and_o chasten_v they_o for_o this_o very_a end_n to_o break_v they_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o reformation_n and_o this_o deal_n of_o christ_n belong_v to_o every_o servant_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n without_o exception_n yea_o christ_n lay_v rebuke_n and_o chastisement_n on_o all_o his_o child_n &_o that_o in_o diverse_a measure_n according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o party_n such_o as_o be_v hardly_o break_v of_o their_o sin_n he_o lay_v on_o they_o more_o heavy_a judgement_n and_o chastisement_n that_o they_o may_v be_v bring_v 〈…〉_z humiliation_n and_o so_o 〈◊〉_d true_a 〈◊〉_d and_o therefore_o every_o one_o that_o will_v be_v a_o disciple_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n must_v look_v to_o go_v under_o his_o correction_n and_o his_o sharp_a and_o severe_a rebuke_n according_a as_o they_o be_v in_o heart_n dispose_v unto_o sin_n either_o more_o or_o less_o he_o must_v pass_v under_o the_o rod_n that_o will_v come_v into_o the_o bond_n of_o the_o covenant_n ezech._n 20.37_o the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v twofold_a set_v down_o prov._n 3.12_o the_o first_o thus_o my_o 〈◊〉_d despise_v no●_n the_o correction_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o lord_n correct_v who_o he_o love_v his_o chastycement_n be_v token_n of_o his_o love_n that_o be_v whensoever_o the_o lord_n either_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n reprove_v thy_o sin_n or_o by_o any_o affliction_n chasten_v thou_o despise_v it_o not_o neither_o set_a light_n by_o it_o but_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o unto_o thy_o own_o soul_n the_o second_o use_n be_v faint_v not_o when_o thou_o be_v correct_v that_o be_v let_v not_o the_o greatness_n of_o it_o daunt_v thou_o but_o arm_v thyself_o with_o patience_n because_o he_o use_v to_o correct_v all_o those_o who_o he_o love_v make_v his_o chastisement_n token_n of_o his_o love_n second_o christ_n here_o set_v before_o all_o governor_n a_o example_n to_o follow_v especial_o to_o father_n and_o master_n his_o example_n be_v this_o on_o every_o child_n that_o he_o love_v he_o lay_v correction_n for_o this_o ●nd_n to_o break_v they_o of_o their_o sin_n 〈◊〉_d answerable_o governor_n must_v show_v token_n of_o love_n towards_o those_o that_o be_v under_o they_o by_o due_a reproof_n and_o correction_n that_o ●o_o they_o may_v be_v break_v of_o their_o misdemeanour_n and_o bring_v unto_o obedience_n to_o god_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o both_o parent_n and_o master_n will_v follow_v christ_n in_o this_o example_n and_o so_o seek_v the_o reformation_n of_o those_o that_o be_v under_o they_o but_o more_o lamentable_a be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d parent_n and_o master_n do_v think_v it_o sufficient_a for_o they_o if_o they_o provide_v for_o their_o child_n and_o servant_n food_n and_o raiment_n and_o necessary_n for_o the_o body_n and_o so_o altogether_o neglect_v the_o good_a of_o their_o soul_n which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o many_o sin_n and_o so_o of_o many_o judgement_n both_o which_o ought_v to_o move_v they_o to_o put_v in_o practice_v this_o duty_n three_o the_o very_a order_n of_o christ_n word_n do_v minister_v unto_o we_o a_o necessary_a instruction_n ●●●ching_v his_o manner_n of_o correct_v his_o servant_n for_o first_o he_o propound_v a_o direct_a end_n of_o all_o his_o correction_n upon_o they_o to_o wit_n their_o nurture_a and_o reformation_n then_o that_o he_o may_v attain_v thereto_o he_o proceed_v thus_o first_o he_o do_v convince_v their_o conscience_n of_o their_o sin_n then_o by_o reproof_n he_o rebuke_n and_o check_n they_o and_o last_o correct_v they_o by_o lay_v chastisement_n on_o they_o a_o most_o excellent_a and_o bless_a order_n in_o use_v correction_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o party_n chastise_v which_o ought_v to_o be_v follow_v of_o all_o governor_n parent_n and_o master_n especial_o first_o they_o must_v propound_v a_o good_a end_n of_o their_o correction_n even_o the_o amendment_n and_o salvation_n of_o the_o party_n and_o that_o they_o may_v then_o proceed_v 〈◊〉_d they_o must_v first_o convince_v their_o conscience_n of_o the_o 〈◊〉_d then_o reprove_v check_n and_o admonish_v they_o and_o if_o that_o take_v not_o place_n they_o must_v proceed_v unto_o meet_a and_o convenient_a bodily_a correction_n all_o which_o must_v be_v do_v not_o for_o revenge_v but_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o amendment_n and_o to_o make_v they_o obedient_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n whereby_o we_o see_v how_o far_o many_o parent_n and_o governor_n over_o shoot_v themselves_o when_o as_o they_o make_v their_o correction_n matter_n of_o revenge_n and_o choler_n wherein_o they_o seldom_o intend_v the_o reformation_n of_o the_o offender_n which_o be_v a_o fault_n flat_a against_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o to_o be_v consider_v of_o every_o good_a christian_n be_v zealous_a therefore_o and_o repent_v in_o the_o former_a verse_n he_o propound_v a_o remedy_n against_o their_o spiritual_a pride_n in_o 〈◊〉_d word_n he_o do_v direct_o propound_v a_o remedy_n against_o their_o luke-warmnesse_n but_o first_o observe_v the_o coherence_n of_o these_o word_n with_o the_o former_a christ_n have_v say_v who_o i_o love_v i_o rebuke_v and_o correct_v according_a as_o their_o fault_n be_v therefore_o say_v he_o to_o this_o church_n because_o i_o have_v rebuke_v and_o correct_v thou_o by_o severe_a threaten_n for_o thy_o luke-warmnesse_n therefore_o now_o become_v zealous_a and_o amend_v
&_o 110._o c._n 2._o 5_o 11.12_o 10_o c._n 1_o &_o 137._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 14_o 76._o c._n 2._o 6_o 10_o 135._o c._n 1._o 8_o 5_o 178_o c._n 2._o 9_o 7_o 169_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 9_o 194_o c._n 2._o 10_o 36_o 136_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 37_o 6_o c._n 2._o 11_o 3_o 57_o c_o 1._o  _fw-fr 22_o 145_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 24_o 25_o 26_o 195_o c._n ●_o &_o 174_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 31_o 185_o c._n 1._o 12_o 2_o 195_o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 38_o c_o 1._o  _fw-fr 17_o 114._o c._n c._n 1._o james._n 1_o 2_o 38._o c._n 1._o &_o 107_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 5_o 77._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 10._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 27_o 135._o c._n 2._o 2_o 23_o 125_o c._n 1._o 4_o 6_o 10._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 45_o c._n 2._o 5_o 7_o 38._o c._n 1._o 1._o peter_n 1_o 7_o 208._o c._n 1._o 3_o 1_o 113._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 15_o 80._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 19.20_o 90_o c._n 2._o &_o 125._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 108_o c._n 1._o 4_o 23_o 27._o c._n 2._o &_o 140._o c._n 2._o 2._o peter_n 1_o 12_o 109._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 19_o 155._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 20_o 143._o c._n 1._o 2_o 3_o 6._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 7_o 75._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 205._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 18_o 151._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 202._o c_o 1._o 3_o 8_o 6._o c._n 1._o &_o 191._o c._n 1._o 1._o joh._n 1_o 3_o 9_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 6_o 62._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 10_o 83._o c._n 1._o 2_o 13_o 54._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 19_o 174._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 27_o 26._o c._n 1._o 3_o 1_o 23._o c._n 1._o &_o 131._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 2_o 232._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 3_o 176._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 9_o 83_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 14_o 135._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 134._o c._n 1_o 4_o 1_o 76._o c._n 1._o &_o 77._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 6_o 127._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 21_o 134._o c._n 1._o 5_o 4_o 97_o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 10_o 198._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 11_o 66._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 18_o 27._o c._n 1._o 2._o joh._n 0_o 10_o 75_o c._n 2._o &_o 116._o c._n 1._o jude._n  _fw-fr 3_o 78._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 151._o c._n ●_o  _fw-fr 20.22_o 80._o c._n 1._o revelation_n 3_o 7_o 21._o c._n 2._o 4_o 5_o 16._o c._n 2._o 6_o 10_o 34._o c._n 1_o 7_o 9_o 118._o c._n 2._o ●0_n 9.19_o 79_o c._n 1._o 19_o 9_o 129._o c._n 2._o 20_o 12_o 148._o c._n 2._o 21_o 3_o 194._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 6_o 129._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 8_o 20._o c._n 1._o &_o 105._o c._n 1._o 109._o c._n 2._o  _fw-fr 10_o 194._o c._n 2._o 22_o 15_o 177._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 16_o 155._o c._n 1._o  _fw-fr 20_o 34._o c._n 1_o ❧_o a_o table_n of_o the_o special_a point_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o this_o exposition_n the_o first_o number_n note_v the_o page_n the_o second_o the_o column_n b●_n note_n the_o beginning_n of_o the_o column_n m_n the_o middle_a and_o e_z the_o end_n a_o absolution_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n 181.1_o m._n adam_n and_o christ_n oppose_v 97.2_o m._n adultery_n spiritual_a and_o bodily_a 〈◊〉_d punishment_n each_o of_o other·_n 94.1_o m._n and_o 120.1_o c._n affection_n of_o the_o soul_n work_v strong_o upon_o the_o body_n 63_o ●_o c._n we_o ought_v to_o be_v like_o affected_a to_o christ._n 94.2_o b._n affliction_n the_o ordinary_a state_n of_o believer_n 38.1_o b_o they_o be_v profitable_a 203_o ●_o c._n they_o discover_v 〈◊〉_d state_n of_o man_n heart_n 192.1_o m_o christ_n temper_v they_o according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o offender_n 211.1_o how_o grievous_a affliction_n seem_v short_a ●●●●_o 1_o c._n ground_n of_o true_a comfort_n in_o affect_v 〈◊〉_d 48.2_o m._n 99.1_o 〈…〉_z m._n ●07_n 2._o m._n 11●_n 〈…〉_z 15●_n 2_o c._n 1●5_n ●_o m._n age_a man_n honour_v 54.2_o b._n there_o duty_n thereupon_o ibid._n amen_o a_o title_n give_v to_o christ._n 197_o ●_o m_o angel_n the_o good_a angel_n be_v 〈◊〉_d for_o god_n church_n ●_o 1_o b._n application_n of_o the_o word_n needful_a 96._o ●_o c._n the_o right_a manner_n of_o it_o 〈…〉_z the_o true_a ●round_n thereof_o ibid._n ●_o approve_v we_o must_v seek_v to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o god_n church_n 147._o ●_o m._n but_o chief_o to_o christ._n 166.1_o b._n ass●●erations_n when_o to_o be_v use_v 33.2_o b._n assurance_n of_o salvation_n by_o faith_n ●8_o 2_o b_o attyre●_n a_o rule_n for_o it_o 53.2_o b._n b_o how_o to_o beaut●fie_v soul_n &_o body_n 208._o ●_o m_o believer_n be_v 〈…〉_z 25.21_o b._n when_o ibid._n 2._o 〈◊〉_d their_o duty_n in_o regard_n 〈…〉_z and_o 27._o ●_o consolation_n thence_o ●8_o 1_o m._n bless_v 〈◊〉_d how_o to_o be_v seek_v 14.1_o c._n blind_a spiritual_o who_o 206.1_o m._n book_n of_o life_n 17.4.1_o m._n how_o a_o man_n may_v be_v bl●●ed_v out_o of_o it_o ibid._n c._n buy_v to_o buy_v of_o christ_n how_o &_o what_o 209.1_o m._n few_o bargain_n with_o he_o ●10_n 1_o b._n c_o calling_n a_o man_n shall_v have_v a_o good_a call_n for_o every_o action_n 6._o ●_o m._n in_o our_o particular_a calling_n we_o shall_v 〈…〉_z christ._n 7.2_o m._n best_o 〈…〉_z have_v their_o 〈◊〉_d ●4_n 1_o b._n 〈◊〉_d law_n of_o 〈…〉_z unclean_a 171.2_o m._n childre●●_n how_o punish_v 〈…〉_z father_n offence_n 〈…〉_z m._n christ_n be_v 〈◊〉_d godpunc_fw-la 〈…〉_z 1._o m._n god_n of_o himself_o 〈…〉_z 34.2_o m._n all_o see_v 99_o 〈…〉_z ●33_n ●_o m._n 〈…〉_z with_o the_o father_n 35._o ●_o 〈…〉_z 35.2_o m._n his_o power_n for_o his_o church_n ●6_n 1_o b._n and_o 133.2_o b._n and_o 153._o ●_o c._n over_o his_o church_n threefold_a 178._o ●_o c._n christ_n true_a man_n 99_o ●_o m._n go●●e_v a●an_n 99_o ●_o ●_o 14●_n ●_o m._n christ●_n officies_n 〈…〉_z office_n 2.2_o m._n &_o 21.1_o m._n his_o kingdom_n ●●_o 1_o c._n and_o 2.6_o christ_n prophetical_a office_n in_o two_o duty_n 17.1_o m._n and_o ●_o ●_o 1_o ●_o christ●_n priesthood_n and_o the_o ●_z thereof_o 20.1_o 〈…〉_z our_o highpriest_n 5●_n 1_o m._n he_o have_v 〈◊〉_d holy_a ghost_n 1●3_n ●_o c._n his_o 〈◊〉_d of_o his_o church_n 2._o ●_o c._n &_o 64._o ●_o b._n christ_n the_o son_n of_o the_o ●ather_n ●nd_v how_o 132.2_o m._n 〈…〉_z of_o his_o father_n 3._o ●_o m._n his_o holiness_n as_o man_n 175._o 〈◊〉_d 176.1_o his_o 〈◊〉_d presence_n not_o ●o_o be_v regard_v 52.2_o m._n he_o be_v spiritual_a food_n 128.2_o ●_o hide_a food_n 130.1_o b._n 〈◊〉_d catholic_a only_o one_o 12.1_o ●_o church_n triumphant_a 19●_n 2_o m._n church_n 〈…〉_z the_o cross_v 37.1_o c_o church_n have_v power_n to_o appoint_v 〈…〉_z 13●_n 1._o m._n several_a congregation●_n be_v particular_a churche●_n 〈…〉_z b._n a 1_n ●_o b._n they_o be_v candlestick_n 49.2_o of_o gold_n ●1_n 1_o m._n the_o 〈…〉_z truth_n ●_o ●_o b._n 1●_n 2_o m._n it_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v 76.2_o c._n it_o shall_v be_v purge_v of_o evil_a man_n 74.2_o b_o it_o shall_v be_v severe_a against_o they_o 138.1_o c._n and_o 139.1_o c._n when_o a_o church_n become_v no_o church_n 102.2_o c._n whence_o god_n church_n be_v gather_v 112.1_o c._n where_o our_o church_n be_v before_o luther_n 113.2_o b._n material_a church_n no_o more_o holy_a than_o other_o house_n 39.1_o c._n 196.1_o c._n commandment_n their_o use_n in_o the_o church_n 89.1_o comedy_n unlawful_a ●50_n 2_o c._n communion_n of_o saint_n 38.2_o m._n communicant_n ungrateful_a 217.2_o c._n confession_n of_o christ._n 175.1_o c._n conscience_n evil_a 33.1_o m._n good_a conscience_n a_o sure_a treasury_n 114.1_o b._n consideration_n of_o a_o man_n sin_n 115.2_o constancy_n for_o the_o truth_n 113.2_o c._n sign_n of_o it_o 114.1_o m._n controversy_n in_o religion_n how_o to_o know_v truth_n therein_o 18.1_o c._n converse_v with_o evil_a man_n 75.1_o c._n &_o 2._o convert_v of_o soul_n a_o great_a privilege_n 183.2_o c._n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n 186.1_o b._n 215.2_o c._n fruit_n of_o true_a conversion_n 187.1.188.1_o correction_n shall_v be_v for_o reformation_n 211.1_o and_o 212._o corruption_n of_o nature_n help_n against_o it_o 60.1_o b._n corruption_n in_o a_o church_n do_v not_o present_o make_v it_o no_o church_n 165.2_o c._n chief_a counsellor_n christ._n 207.1_o c._n d_o damnation_n how_o escape_v 110.1_o b._n david_n fall_n 85.1_o b._n dead_a christ_n privilege_n among_o the_o dead_a 20.2_o b._n and_o 21.1_o b._n death_n twofold_n 109.2_o b._n spiritual_a death_n have_v 3._o degree_n 58.2_o c._n comfort_n against_o death_n 20.2_o c._n &_o 56.1_o c._n decay_n in_o love_n and_o grace_n 86.1.89.2_o c._n 90.2_o c._n 92.1_o m._n degree_n in_o glory_n 149.1_o c._n despair_n help_n against_o it_o 213.2_o c._n diligence_n in_o a_o minister_n 73.1_o m._n disgrace_v of_o other_o 93.2_o m._n distrust_v in_o god_n providence_n 104.1_o c._n doctor_n of_o the_o church_n