Selected quad for the lemma: conscience_n

Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
conscience_n heart_n pure_a sprinkle_v 1,554 5 10.8871 5 true
View all documents for the selected quad

Text snippets containing the quad

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

There are 63 snippets containing the selected quad. | View original text

christian_a walk_n according_a to_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d these_o seven_o particular_n 1._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v have_v a_o respect_n to_o all_o sort_n of_o duty_n in_o word_n thought_n and_o action_n for_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v for_o a_o idle_a word_n and_o for_o a_o sinful_a thought_n to_o simon_n act_v 8._o 22._o say_v the_o apostle_n pray_v god_n if_o perhaps_o the_o thought_n of_o thy_o hear●_n may_v be_v forgive_v thou_o which_o say_v that_o sinful_a thought_n may_v have_v influence_n to_o 〈◊〉_d the_o conscience_n and_o that_o a_o man_n who_o wou●d_v keep_v peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n shall_v dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o none_o of_o these_o 2._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a t●_n conscience_n must_v extend_v duty_n to_o all_o particular_n o●_n ever●_n kind_n to_o every_o thought_n every_o word_n and_o every_o action_n ●or_a according_a as_o conscience_n when_o in_o case_n be_v please_v or_o displease_v in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o in_o public_a in_o private_a in_o secret_a in_o 〈◊〉_d or_o small_a duty_n or_o ●ins_n so_o it_o will_v accuse_v or_o excuse_v so_o then_o as_o conscience_n regard_v al●_n duty_n and_o kind_n of_o they_o so_o it_o regard_v every_o particular_a of_o every_o kind_n 3._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v aim_v in_o his_o christian_a walk_n at_o the_o high_a degree_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o though_o he_o come_v short_a yet_o he_o must_v not_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o his_o short-coming_a in_o any_o of_o they_o for_o instance_n as_o he_o must_v love_v god_n so_o he_o must_v endeavour_v to_o love_v he_o with_o all_o his_o strength_n soul_n and_o mind_n and_o as_o he_o must_v be_v holy_a so_o he_o must_v aim_v to_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o to_o purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a in_o this_o respect_n the_o least_o defect_n will_v give_v conscience_n ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n and_o if_o he_o in_o the_o least_o but_o indirect_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o it_o it_o will_v breed_v a_o quarrel_n 4._o walk_v according_o to_o conscience_n tie_v a_o man_n to_o be_v in_o this_o aim_n and_o design_n always_o so_o as_o it_o allow_v of_o no_o intermission_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o study_v holiness_n in_o this_o or_o that_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o not_o in_o another_o or_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o not_o in_o prosperity_n but_o as_o the_o word_n be_v here_o in_o the_o t●xt_n he_o be_v always_o to_o exercise_v himself_o in_o this_o study_n and_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v live_v many_o year_n with_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n if_o he_o begin_v at_o last_o though_o i●_n be_v but_o now_o and_o then_o to_o take_v undue_a liberty_n conscience_n will_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o challenge_n for_o it_o because_o the_o word_n the_o superior_a of_o conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o it_o 5._o to_o walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n extend_v itself_o to_o all_o circumstance_n and_o qualification_n of_o duty_n it_o look_v not_o only_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v good_a but_o that_o it_o be_v spiritual_o prosecute_v in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o it_o will_v look_v to_o the_o man_n aim_n that_o it_o be_v single_a and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o will_v find_v fault_n it_o will_v look_v to_o his_o manner_n of_o do_v whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_a lively_a tender_a zealous_a etc._n etc._n in_o what_o he_o do_v and_o it_o will_v look_v from_o what_o principle_n he_o act_v from_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n or_o from_o a_o gift_n from_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o from_o christ_n and_o it_o will_v look_v to_o what_o be_v his_o end_n or_o aim_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v whether_o he_o be_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n to_o himself_o or_o to_o god_n whether_o his_o end_n be_v to_o please_v man_n and_o to_o have_v their_o approbation_n and_o applause_n or_o to_o glorify_v god_n and_o to_o approve_v to_o he_o whether_o it_o be_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o to_o honour_n god_n conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o these_o for_o sound_v its_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v and_o in_o this_o it_o differ_v from_o all_o court_n among_o man_n it_o will_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v where_o they_o will_v absolve_v &_o contra_fw-la 6._o conscience_n will_v put_v a_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o the_o mean_n opportunity_n and_o help_n whereby_o holiness_n may_v be_v further_v and_o if_o a_o man_n come_v short_a in_o the_o use_n of_o any_o mean_a it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o run_v the_o back_n trade_n as_o it_o be_v and_o to_o take_v with_o the_o guilt_n it_o will_v say_v man_n whither_o may_v thou_o not_o have_v have_v more_o knowledge_n have_v have_v so_o many_o opportunity_n to_o hear_v and_o learn_v have_v have_v such_o and_o such_o minister_n and_o christian_a friend_n to_o advise_v with_o and_o to_o be_v instruct_v by_o as_o the_o apostle_n have_v it_o heb._n 5._o 12._o you_o may_v have_v be_v teacher_n of_o other_o by_o reason_n of_o time_n and_o mean_n and_o yet_o you_o have_v need_n to_o be_v teach_v the_o first_o principle_n etc._n etc._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n it_o be_v necessary_a to_o use_v every_o mean_a to_o further_o we_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o to_o attain_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o 7._o conscience_n will_v look_v especial_o to_o what_o use_n we_o make_v of_o our_o holiness_n and_o to_o what_o we_o lie_v before_o conscience_n to_o answer_v its_o challenge_n whether_o we_o bring_v our_o good_a mind_n our_o prayer_n external_n performance_n and_o our_o follow_v of_o ordinance_n to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o and_o to_o silence_v the_o challenge_n and_o quench_v the_o fire_n to_o say_v so_o of_o conscience_n or_o whether_o we_o bring_v the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v if_o we_o compare_v heb._n 10._o vers_fw-la 2._o with_o vers_n 22._o and_o heb._n 9_o vers_fw-la 9_o with_o vers_n 14._o we_o will_v find_v this_o latter_a way_n and_o ●ot_n the_o former_a to_o be_v the_o only_a safe_a way_n these_o sacrifice_n that_o be_v offer_v year_n by_o year_n continual_o can_v never_o make_v the_o the_o comer_n thereunto_o perfect_a but_o have_v a_o highpriest_n over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n we_o may_v draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n and_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n these_o gift_n and_o sacrifice_n can_v not_o make_v they_o that_o do_v the_o service_n perfect_a as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o though_o the_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v a_o believer_n where_o there_o be_v defect_n in_o the_o fo●mer_a rule_n yet_o it_o be_v quiet_v and_o satisfy_v where_o there_o be_v serious_a and_o suitable_a application_n make_v to_o and_o of_o the_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o redeemer_n i●_n so_o be_v he_o dispense_v not_o with_o himself_o as_o to_o his_o short-coming_a in_o they_o and_o if_o the_o use_n that_o he_o make_v of_o his_o holiness_n in_o the_o large_a extent_n and_o high_a degree_n of_o it_o be_v not_o to_o found_v his_o righteousness_n thereon_o but_o to_o honour_n god_n thereby_o in_o gratitude_n to_o he_o to_o edify_v other_o and_o to_o evidence_n to_o himself_o the_o soundness_n and_o reality_n of_o his_o believe_a and_o gracious_a state_n this_o show_v the_o vast_a extent_n of_o holiness_n and_o what_o it_o be_v that_o man_n be_v call_v to_o and_o thereby_o we_o may_v also_o see_v that_o many_o sad_o mistake_v religion_n and_o what_o that_o perfect_a walk_n be_v that_o a_o christian_n ought_v to_o have_v before_o god_n and_o we_o may_v say_v on_o the_o whole_a if_o this_o be_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n then_o certain_o not_o many_a but_o very_o few_o walk_n according_a to_o ●t_a which_o be_v a_o lamentation_n and_o shall_v be_v for_o a_o lamentation_n the_o second_o use_n be_v ●or_a trial_n if_o a_o believer_n when_o he_o be_v in_o case_n and_o right_a will_v have_v it_o for_o his_o exercise_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n than_o this_o will_v be_v a_o difference_v mark_n betwixt_o a_o believer_n and_o a_o un-believer_n the_o one_o single_o aim_v and_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o walk_v so_o as_o in_o nothing_o he_o may_v offend_v his_o conscience_n the_o other_o ha●h_v no_o such_o design_n
house_n beside_o it_o we_o will_v not_o say_v but_o many_o filthy_a thing_n may_v be_v in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n but_o it_o do_v not_o comport_v well_o with_o they_o nor_o digest_v they_o they_o be_v as_o lukewarm-water_n to_o a_o man_n stomach_n that_o he_o can_v keep_v but_o must_v needs_o vomit_v up_o again_o and_o he_o be_v sick_a till_o he_o do_v so_o 5._o it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n of_o a_o pure_a conscience_n when_o the_o man_n can_v endure_v to_o be_v at_o a_o distance_n from_o christ_n but_o have_v many_o errand_n to_o he_o will_v fain_o be_v near_o he_o yea_o will_v fain_o abide_v constant_o with_o he_o as_o well_o as_o in_o he_o by_o faith_n when_o he_o will_v lie_v beside_o he_o as_o beside_o the_o fountain_n to_o be_v bleatched_a there_o so_o to_o speak_v because_o he_o k●ws_v that_o no_o soon_o will_v he_o go_v from_o he_o but_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v defile_v and_o he_o love_v so_o well_o to_o be_v clean_o and_o love_v christ_n so_o well_o that_o make_v he_o clean_o that_o he_o like_v well_o to_o be_v always_o near_o he_o this_o be_v a_o good_a token_n of_o a_o person_n that_o have_v a_o pure_a conscience_n because_o as_o it_o betoken_v a_o great_a loathe_n of_o filthiness_n so_o it_o betoken_v a_o great_a respect_n to_o christ_n on_o this_o account_n as_o to_o the_o maker_n and_o keeper_n of_o the_o conscience_n clean_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v a_o very_a evil_a token_n when_o person_n will_v pretend_v to_o a_o pure_a conscience_n when_o yet_o they_o will_v not_o go_v to_o the_o fountain_n for_o a_o very_a long_a time_n if_o at_o all_o and_o when_o they_o go_v if_o we_o may_v speak_v so_o they_o scarce_o give_v their_o conscience_n a_o dip_v or_o a_o little_a sprinkle_n or_o syne_v as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v but_o they_o be_v away_o and_o go_v again_o but_o a_o serious_a tender_a and_o purge_v soul_n will_v no_o soon_o perceive_v a_o ●oul_a stain_n or_o spot_n but_o it_o repair_v quick_o to_o the_o fountain_n of_o christ_n blood_n to_o get_v it_o wash_v out_o and_o o_o but_o its_o precious_a to_o he_o and_o he_o never_o think_v himself_o to_o be_v right_a and_o well_o but_o when_o he_o be_v there_o and_o near_o to_o he_o it_o be_v true_a he_o can_v always_o be_v in_o prayer_n or_o in_o other_o duty_n of_o worship_n yet_o he_o endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o the_o habitual_a exercise_n of_o faith_n correspond_v with_o he_o for_o attain_v and_o keep_v a_o clean_a and_o undefiled_a conscience_n sermon_n ii_o heb._n 9_o v_o 14._o and_o 10_o v_o 22._o how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n if_o we_o know_v what_o sort_n of_o conscience_n we_o natural_o have_v and_o be_v suitable_o sensible_a of_o the_o evil_a state_n of_o they_o it_o will_v be_v to_o we_o as_o good_a news_n from_o a_o far_a country_n to_o hear_v how_o they_o may_v be_v get_v purge_v and_o make_v good_a and_o how_o little_a soever_o man_n think_v of_o this_o now_o and_o how_o ever_o easy_a they_o fancy_v it_o to_o be_v to_o get_v their_o conscience_n solid_o quiet_v and_o calm_v there_o be_v a_o day_n come_v when_o sleep_v and_o secure_a conscience_n will_v be_v awake_v and_o when_o it_o will_v be_v find_v more_o easy_a to_o endure_v the_o great_a toil_n and_o the_o most_o exquisite_a torment_n on_o earth_n then_o to_o wrestle_v with_o and_o to_o be_v close_o pursue_v and_o constant_o haunt_v by_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o evil_a and_o awake_v conscience_n which_o will_v roar_v against_o man_n as_o a_o lion_n and_o tear_v as_o it_o be_v the_o very_a cawl_n of_o their_o heart_n then_o o_o then_o they_o who_o will_v never_o be_v persuade_v before_o to_o believe_v what_o a_o evil_a and_o defile_a conscience_n be_v nor_o what_o the_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n of_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o in_o the_o conscience_n be_v shall_v be_v make_v to_o their_o eternal_a prejudice_n to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o both_o in_o both_o these_o place_n now_o read_v in_o your_o hear_n the_o apostle_n scope_n be_v to_o commend_v the_o transcendent_a worth_n and_o matchless_a excellency_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o incomparable_a efficacy_n of_o his_o most_o precious_a blood_n from_o this_o noble_a notable_a and_o non-such_a effect_n of_o it_o viz._n that_o when_o nothing_o else_o can_v lay_v or_o allay_v the_o storm_n and_o tempest_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n nor_o purge_v it_o from_o these_o defile_n dead_a work_n this_o blood_n can_v do_v it_o to_o purpose_n and_o effectual_o when_o apply_v by_o faith_n when_o no_o legal_a sacrifice_n nor_o wash_n that_o sanctify_v only_o to_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o flesh_n can_v reach_v perfyte_v the_o comer_n thereto_o as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v say_v chap._n 9_o v._n 9_o neither_o can_v deliver_v he_o from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o give_v he_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n in_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n over_o the_o belly_n of_o many_o quarrel_n and_o ground_n of_o challenge_n the_o blood_n of_o christ_n can_v as_o it_o be_v chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o we_o leave_v the_o other_o day_n at_o speak_v somewhat_o to_o that_o natural_a pollution_n that_o thorough_o affect_v the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o all_o man_n before_o they_o be_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n purge_v and_o the_o apostle_n take_v such_o pain_n to_o hold_v out_o this_o show_v plain_o that_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o great_a concernment_n to_o christian_n to_o know_v the_o way_n how_o to_o get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v from_o that_o deep_a defilement_n of_o sin_n wherewith_o they_o be_v pollute_v for_o be_v it_o not_o his_o manner_n to_o insist_v in_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o of_o concernment_n to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n who_o will_v ready_o from_o the_o sad_a and_o doleful_a experience_n of_o their_o own_o pollution_n be_v induce_v to_o think_v that_o this_o truth_n be_v such_o and_o aught_o to_o be_v esteem_v so_o by_o they_o 2_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o christian_n shall_v more_o aim_v at_o and_o endeavour_v more_o to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o then_o to_o be_v follow_v that_o way_n whereby_o they_o may_v get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v and_o more_o particular_o these_o who_o have_v have_v their_o conscience_n again_o defile_v after_o that_o they_o be_v once_o purge_v no_o main_n infect_v with_o the_o borch_n or_o plague_n have_v more_o need_n of_o cleanse_v from_o it_o than_o the_o man_n who_o conscience_n be_v infect_v and_o defile_v with_o the_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n needs_o to_o have_v it_o purge_v from_o they_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n we_o shall_v but_o very_o brief_o to_o make_v way_n for_o that_o which_o we_o will_v main_o be_v at_o hint_n at_o two_o or_o three_o observation_n from_o both_o these_o verse_n now_o read_v put_v together_o first_o than_o observe_v from_o chap._n 10._o v._n 22._o that_o a_o conscience_n not_o purge_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o very_a evil_a thing_n which_o we_o will_v find_v to_o be_v a_o very_a sad_a truth_n if_o we_o consider_v the_o unpurged_a conscience_n either_o as_o it_o be_v awake_v or_o as_o it_o be_v not_o awake_v but_o asleep_o which_o be_v ill_a both_o way_n it_o be_v ill_a if_o it_o be_v awake_v and_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n be_v fresh_a upon_o it_o who_o can_v express_v or_o adequat_o conceive_v the_o terribleness_n of_o such_o a_o case_n the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n may_v sustain_v his_o infirmity_n and_o wrestle_v through_o many_o cross_n but_o a_o wound_a a_o wrath-wounded_n spirit_n or_o a_o ill_a conscience_n rouse_v by_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o almighty_a god_n who_o can_v bear_v this_o have_v make_v some_o with_o judas_n the_o trai_fw-fr tour_fw-fr rather_o to_o choice_n death_n a_o violent_a death_n inflict_v by_o their_o own_o wretched_a hand_n on_o themselves_o than_o life_n whereby_o they_o have_v desperate_o run_v themselves_o under_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n to_o the_o full_a o_o poor_a silly_a miserable_a shift_n and_o evasion_n to_o flee_v from_o some_o small_a fore-party_n as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n on_o earth_n into_o the_o very_a strength_n and_o main_a battle_n of_o it_o eternal_o in_o hell_n this_o be_v infinite_o worse_a than_o to_o leap_v out_o of_o the_o water_n into_o the_o fire_n nay_o some_o of_o the_o most_o eminent_a
they_o have_v pay_v their_o own_o debt_n and_o satisfy_v justice_n in_o their_o own_o person_n have_v that_o be_v possible_a and_o if_o on_o ●his_v bargan_n and_o transaction_n all_o his_o suffering_n be_v bu●lt_v then_o sure_o there_o be_v in_o christ_n death_n a_o most_o solid_a and_o sufficient_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o finner_n that_o have_v flee_v to_o he_o and_o close_v with_o his_o satisfaction_n even_o as_o solid_a and_o sufficient_a as_o if_o he_o have_v pay_v the_o debt_n himself_o for_o it_o be_v blasphem●e_a to_o imagine_v such_o a_o covenant_n so_o lay_v down_o and_o for_o such_o a_o end_n and_o not_o to_o be_v most_o real_a and_o effectual_a for_o reach_v the_o end_n this_o covenant_n be_v most_o sure_a and_o this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v ●_o cor._n 5._o ult_n viz._n to_o make_v he_o sin_n for_o we_o who_o kn●w_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o by_o the_o same_o covenant_n and_o good_a will_n of_o god_n father_n son_n and_o spirit_n concur_v to_o lay_v down_o this_o way_n of_o salvation_n christ_n be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o not_o against_o his_o will_n but_o with_o his_o will_n for_o he_o be_v most_o willing_a to_o undergo_v the_o work_n as_o be_v clear_a from_o psal._n 40._o compare_v with_o heb._n 10._o and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n or_o rather_o end_n for_o which_o he_o be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o even_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o that_o he_o be_v find_v the_o sinner_n and_o deal_v with_o as_o the_o sinner_n we_o may_v be_v declare_v righteous_a not_o as_o if_o we_o have_v never_o sin_v but_o that_o by_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n and_o god_n gracious_a accept_n of_o it_o for_o we_o we_o be_v reckon_v free_a as_o if_o we_o have_v pay_v the_o debt_n ourselves_o in_o our_o own_o person_n and_o if_o the_o covenant_n betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o mediator_n have_v a_o real_a effect_n on_o christ_n jesus_n the_o cautioner_n if_o he_o real_o take_v on_o our_o nature_n and_o in_o that_o nature_n suffer_v and_o pay_v our_o debt_n if_o our_o iniquity_n in_o the_o punishment_n of_o they_o do_v meet_v on_o he_o as_o it_o be_v isa._n 53._o the_o lord_n lay_v on_o he_o the_o iniquity_n of_o we_o all_o if_o he_o drink_v the_o bitter_a cup_n that_o we_o shall_v have_v drunken_a and_o satisfy_v justice_n for_o we_o then_o sure_a the_o covenant_n must_v have_v a_o real_a effect_n on_o the_o other_o side_n as_o to_o we_o and_o we_o have_v good_a and_o sufficient_a warrant_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n will_v accept_v of_o that_o satisfaction_n for_o believe_a sinner_n that_o lie_v hold_v thereon_o for_o make_v their_o peace_n and_o that_o he_o will_v as_o real_o keep_v that_o part_n of_o the_o bargain_n viz._n to_o m●ke_v the_o application_n of_o christ_n satisfaction_n forthcoming_a to_o they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o other_o in_o exact_v that_o satisfaction_n from_o he_o as_o many_o as_o be_v now_o before_o the_o throne_n be_v joyful_a witness_n and_o glorious_a monument_n of_o the_o reality_n of_o this_o part_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o indeed_o there_o be_v no_o more_o legality_n to_o speak_v so_o in_o the_o impute_n of_o our_o sin_n to_o christ_n then_o there_o be_v legality_n in_o impute_v his_o righteousness_n to_o we_o in_o give_v we_o absolution_n and_o declare_v we_o righteous_a through_o he_o for_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o justice_n to_o have_v any_o claim_n against_o christ_n but_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n wherein_o christ_n undertake_v the_o debt_n and_o there_o be_v no_o other_o ground_n for_o make_v his_o purchase_n forthcoming_a to_o the_o sinner_n that_o by_o ●aith_n lay_v hold_v on_o he_o it_o be_v the_o same_o bless_a design_n that_o carry_v on_o both_o part_n of_o the_o bargan_n and_o now_o put_v all_o these_o together_o may_v we_o not_o most_o confident_o say_v that_o there_o be_v notable_o good_a ground_n for_o quiet_v of_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o sinner_n that_o by_o faith_n betake_v himself_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o such_o a_o sinner_n may_v with_o well-grounded_n confidence_n hope_v for_o and_o certain_o expect_v pardon_n and_o absolution_n as_o if_o in_o some_o respect_n he_o have_v never_o sin_v we_o can_v now_o insist_v to_o speak_v to_o the_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n only_o from_o this_o we_o may_v clear_o see_v 1._o how_o much_o sinner_n be_v oblige_v to_o god_n and_o to_o the_o mediator_n jesus_n christ_n and_o how_o poor_a sorry_a and_o miserable_a a_o life_n and_o how_o comfortless_a and_o curse_a a_o death_n we_o shall_v have_v have_v if_o he_o have_v not_o lay_v down_o a_o way_n for_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n even_o this_o excellent_a and_o wonderful_a way_n by_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n and_o therefore_o defile_v and_o guilty_a sinner_n will_v endeavour_v to_o make_v this_o doctrine_n very_o dear_o welcome_a as_o paul_n do_v be_v 1_o tim._n 1._o v._n 15._o when_o in_o a_o transport_n of_o holy_a admiration_n he_o cry_v this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n that_o christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n o_o believer_n in_o christ_n prize_v his_o grace_n high_o and_o bless_v he_o hearty_o even_o with_o all_o that_o be_v within_o you_o that_o ever_o the_o thought_n of_o this_o way_n of_o relief_n for_o lose_a sinner_n be_v in_o his_o bless_a heart_n 2_o since_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o natural_o we_o all_o have_v evil_a conscience_n through_o the_o debt_n of_o sin_n and_o defilement_n of_o dead_a work_n and_o that_o through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n if_o we_o flee_v to_o it_o by_o faith_n and_o take_v hold_v of_o his_o satisfaction_n we_o may_v get_v our_o conscience_n purge_v and_o our_o debt_n as_o certain_o pay_v as_o any_o man_n debt_n be_v who_o have_v in_o his_o charter-chist_n the_o discharge_n of_o a_o sum_n he_o be_v once_o owe_v then_o let_v i_o beseech_v you_o for_o the_o lord_n sake_n to_o make_v this_o your_o great_a work_n to_o get_v the_o application_n of_o this_o blood_n make_v to_o your_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v it_o on_o good_a ground_n make_v sure_a that_o you_o have_v by_o faith_n make_v application_n of_o it_o that_o you_o may_v not_o live_v and_o die_v in_o a_o conjectural_a and_o guess_v uncertainty_n about_o it_o o_o how_o mighty_o momentuous_a and_o concern_v to_o you_o through_o all_o eternity_n be_v it_o to_o have_v your_o defile_a conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o that_o blood_n if_o it_o be_v of_o concernment_n to_o you_o to_o have_v access_n to_o lift_v up_o your_o head_n with_o joy_n and_o your_o face_n with_o boldness_n in_o that_o day_n when_o the_o heart_n of_o many_o shall_v fall_v they_o for_o fear_n of_o those_o thing_n come_v on_o they_o and_o their_o knee_n shall_v smite_v one_o against_o another_o when_o their_o face_n shall_v gather_v paleness_n and_o they_o shall_v weep_v and_o howl_v desperate_o without_o all_o hope_n then_o doubtless_o it_o be_v of_o your_o concernment_n of_o your_o incomparable_o great_a concernment_n to_o get_v your_o conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o this_o blood_n otherways_o be_v assure_v live_v as_o you_o will_v and_o die_v as_o you_o may_v this_o defile_a ill_a conscience_n will_v cleave_v to_o you_o as_o a_o girdle_n do_v to_o the_o loin_n of_o a_o man_n and_o it_o will_v yell_v and_o roar_v on_o you_o with_o unconceavable_a terror_n and_o torment_n it_o will_v then_o be_v know_v and_o acknowledge_v by_o many_o to_o their_o everlasting_a shame_n and_o loss_n and_o to_o their_o endless_a terror_n and_o torment_n that_o there_o be_v a_o great_o concern_v truth_n in_o this_o doctrine_n viz._n that_o the_o only_a way_n how_o to_o get_v a_o defile_a conscience_n purge_v from_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n be_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ._n a_o sermon_n on_o heb._n 10._o v_o 22._o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n the_o confident_a approach_n of_o sinner_n to_o god_n be_v the_o great_a design_n of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o they_o may_v bold_o though_o humble_o draw_v near_o unto_o and_o have_v communion_n with_o he_o be_v the_o great_a fruit_n of_o christ_n purchase_n the_o apostle_n discourse_v here_o to_o these_o hebrew_n of_o the_o excellent_a advantage_n which_o they_o have_v in_o and_o by_o jesus_n christ_n whereof_o he_o give_v a_o short_a summary_n and_o abridgement_n v_o 19_o 20_o 21._o draw_v thence_o a_o
pathetic_a exhortation_n by_o way_n of_o conclusion_n that_o believer_n will_v make_v use_n of_o and_o improve_v these_o advantage_n and_o privilege_n in_o a_o confident_a approach_n to_o god_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o say_v he_o v_o 22._o in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n but_o because_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o ready_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o believer_n their_o come_n to_o god_n he_o cast_v in_o two_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o their_o come_n for_o remove_v these_o obstruction_n and_o to_o let_v we_o see_v that_o though_o he_o allow_v of_o the_o well_o ground_a confidence_n of_o faith_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o allow_v of_o carnal_a presumption_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n the_o 1._o thing_n that_o stand_v in_o their_o way_n be_v carnalness_n and_o deceit_n of_o heart_n and_o the_o qualification_n which_o he_o require_v for_o remove_v of_o it_o be_v in_o these_o word_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o a_o simple_o sinless_a heart_n but_o of_o a_o sincere_a honest_a and_o upright_a heart_n a_o clean_a heart_n loathe_v and_o work_v out_o the_o remainder_n of_o pollution_n and_o impurity_n for_o it_o be_v oppose_v to_o a_o unclean_a deceitful_a and_o hypocritical_a heart_n otherways_o the_o next_o word_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o wash_v will_v not_o be_v add_v but_o because_o 2_o believer_n win_v not_o in_o this_o life_n to_o that_o perfection_n in_o purity_n and_o sincerity_n but_o still_o they_o be_v conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o a_o remainder_n of_o deceit_n impurity_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o be_v and_o abide_v in_o they_o so_o that_o if_o they_o have_v no_o more_o but_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o own_o purity_n and_o sincerity_n to_o look_v to_o it_o will_v be_v but_o as_o one_o leg_n to_o walk_v upon_o in_o their_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n they_o may_v therefore_o object_v alace_o we_o have_v but_o little_a if_o any_o thing_n of_o a_o pure_a and_o sincere_a heart_n he_o answer_v this_o by_o add_v the_o second_o qualification_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n which_o be_v as_o he_o have_v say_v wherein_o soever_o you_o be_v unclean_a and_o defile_v and_o whatever_o be_v your_o impurity_n deceit_n or_o hypocrisy_n come_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o you_o may_v be_v sprinkle_v and_o washe●_n thereby_o and_o then_o come_v forward_o and_o draw_v near_o to_o go●_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o word_n he_o will_v have_v they_o come_v and_o come_v in_o sincerity_n and_o whatever_o lament_v over_o and_o loathe_a deceit_n and_o hypocrisy_n or_o uncleanness_n they_o find_v in_o themselves_o he_o will_v not_o have_v that_o keep_v they_o back_o because_o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o purge_v away_o both_o the_o guilt_n and_o filth_n of_o sin_n and_o to_o procure_v welcome_a to_o such_o as_o be_v sincere_a and_o single_a in_o purify_n their_o heart_n and_o way_n though_o they_o be_v not_o perfect_o pure_a but_o many_o degree_n remove_v from_o it_o and_o because_o thereof_o be_v under_o many_o quarrel_n from_o god_n and_o challenge_v from_o their_o own_o conscience_n he_o will_v have_v such_o make_v use_n of_o that_o blood_n for_o remove_v all_o quarrel_n and_o so_o to_o come_v forward_o this_o phrase_n of_o have_v the_o conscience_n sprinkle_v be_v a_o allusion_n to_o that_o which_o we_o have_v exod._n 12._o v_o 7._o and_o 13._o where_o the_o lord_n be_v to_o smite_v all_o the_o first-born_a of_o egypt_n to_o prevent_v the_o fall_n of_o the_o stroke_n and_o plague_n on_o the_o israelite_n he_o appoint_v they_o to_o kill_v a_o lamb_n and_o to_o sprinkle_v the_o lintel_n and_o door_n post_n of_o their_o house_n with_o the_o blood_n thereof_o that_o when_o the_o destroy_a angel_n pass_v through_o to_o smite_v the_o first-born_a of_o the_o egyptian_n he_o may_v pass_v over_o their_o house_n that_o be_v so_o sprinkle_v and_o the_o force_n of_o the_o allusion_n be_v this_o man_n conscience_n in_o a_o natural_a estate_n be_v like_o that_o destroy_a angel_n and_o as_o israel_n be-sprinkled_n the_o door_n post_v of_o their_o house_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o paschal_n lamb_n so_o he_o will_v have_v they_o to_o be-sprinkle_a their_o heart_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n as_o chap._n 9_o 14._o and_o 12._o v_o 24._o and_o then_o their_o conscience_n will_v not_o smite_v they_o to_o their_o hurt_n but_o they_o shall_v be_v pass_v over_o as_o the_o israelit_n be_v pass_v over_o by_o the_o destroy_a angel_n in_o the_o word_n then_o these_o two_o be_v clear_a 1._o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o person_n un-reconciled_n to_o god_n be_v a_o mighty_a fierce_a and_o terrible_a pursuer_fw-mi ready_a to_o seize_v on_o he_o as_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n do_v on_o the_o manslayer_n or_o as_o the_o destroy_a angel_n do_v on_o the_o egyptian_n and_o o_o but_o it_o be_v a_o dreadful_a thing_n to_o be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n wrath_n and_o to_o the_o challenge_n accusation_n throw_n and_o pang_n of_o a_o conscience_n that_o have_v just_a ground_n of_o a_o quarrel_n against_o a_o man_n who_o have_v nothing_o wherewith_o to_o answer_v its_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n 2_o that_o the_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n be_v such_o that_o it_o be_v able_a to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n of_o such_o a_o man_n that_o flee_v to_o it_o and_o to_o fence_v and_o guard_v he_o against_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n and_o the_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n so_o that_o as_o it_o have_v no_o just_a ground_n to_o pursue_v so_o it_o be_v god_n deputy_n it_o can_v neither_o will_v pursue_v he_o as_o god_n enemy_n it_o have_v no_o warrant_n from_o he_o as_o its_o sovereign_a to_o do_v so_o but_o as_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o house_n of_o the_o israelit_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o passove_a lamb_n preserve_v they_o from_o be_v plague_v or_o hurt_v by_o the_o destroy_a angel_n so_o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o purge_v and_o pacify_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o person_n that_o in_o good_a earnest_n have_v believe_v recourse_n to_o it_o to_o preserve_v he_o from_o the_o stroke_n of_o god_n justice_n and_o wrath_n and_o from_o the_o pursuit_n and_o accusation_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n i_o say_v when_o it_o be_v have_v recourse_n to_o actual_o apply_v and_o make_v use_v of_o by_o faith_n we_o clear_v and_o confirm_v these_o two_o doctrine_n or_o two_o branch_n of_o the_o same_o doctrine_n the_o other_o day_n and_o now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o use_v of_o they_o which_o be_v fourfold_a 1._o for_o information_n and_o direction_n 2_o for_o the_o commendation_n of_o the_o bargan_n of_o free_a grace_n 3_o for_o the_o consolation_n of_o believer_n in_o christ._n and_o 4_o for_o advertisement_n and_o warning_n to_o other_o for_o the_o first_o use_v you_o may_v see_v here_o a_o main_a lesson_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o from_o this_o you_o may_v hear_v glad_a and_o joyful_a tiding_n to_o a_o toss_a and_o trouble_a sinner_n who_o conscience_n be_v pursue_v he_o like_o a_o arm_a man_n nay_o the_o conscience_n be_v more_o terrible_a when_o awake_v than_o any_o the_o great_a army_n of_o man_n but_o behold_v here_o there_o be_v a_o way_n to_o win_v to_o peace_n under_o these_o toss_n and_o trouble_n and_o to_o a_o calm_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o that_o terrible_a tempest_n and_o storm_n to_o a_o escape_n and_o deliverance_n from_o the_o hot_a pursuer_fw-mi and_o avenger_n of_o blood_n as_o it_o be_v a_o city_n of_o refuge_n to_o flee_v unto_o even_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o speak_v better_a thing_n than_o the_o blood_n of_o abel_n even_o that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o speak_v peace_n when_o it_o be_v apply_v by_o faith_n in_o prosecution_n of_o this_o use_n we_o shall_v a_o little_a clear_a th●se_a three_o 1._o what_o a_o sinner_n lie_v under_o the_o lash_n of_o his_o conscience_n come_v to_o this_o blood_n may_v expect_v 2_o how_o he_o may_v attain_v that_o which_o he_o may_v warrantable_o expect_v 3ly_a when_o he_o may_v and_o aught_o in_o a_o more_o especial_a manner_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o as_o to_o the_o first_o viz._n what_o a_o conscience-tossed_n and_o trouble_a sinner_n may_v expect_v by_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n god_n rich_a and_o liberal_a allowance_n on_o he_o be_v drawing_z ●ear_v to_o he_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n come_v to_o he_o with_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n as_o a_o father_n in_o all_o his_o worship-address_n and_o application_n the_o meaning_n be_v not_o that_o the_o sinner_n under_o a_o quarrel_n flee_v to_o this_o blood_n have_v no_o ground_n of_o humiliation_n
of_o his_o soul_n and_o body_n which_o by_o the_o exact_a and_o exquisite_a symmetry_n and_o harmony_n thereof_o through_o the_o image_n of_o god_n concreated_a with_o he_o make_v he_o while_o it_o remain_v in_o its_o integrity_n incapable_a of_o all_o such_o motion_n or_o action_n which_o shall_v be_v subservient_fw-fr unto_fw-la or_o compliant_a with_o any_o thing_n contrary_a unto_o or_o different_a from_o it_o his_o understanding_n the_o lead_a faculty_n and_o the_o eye_n as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o soul_n become_v a_o abyss_n and_o dungeon_n of_o darkness_n cover_v all_o over_o with_o fog_n mist_n and_o cloud_n of_o ignorance_n error_n and_o mistake_n so_o that_o become_v of_o a_o spiritual_a and_o holy_a man_n a_o carnal_a and_o corrupt_a man_n he_o do_v not_o receive_v neither_o can_v he_o know_v save_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n he_o become_v quite_o blind_a have_v lose_v his_o visive_a faculty_n as_o to_o all_o spiritual_a discern_a his_o will_n the_o roll_a and_o govern_v faculty_n utter_o lose_v its_o rectitude_n and_o become_v crooked_a froward_a perverse_a rebellious_a and_o obstinate_a strong_o incline_v and_o bend_v to_o evil_a to_o all_o evil_a only_o to_o evil_n always_o and_o constant_o to_o evil_a and_o altogether_o averse_a from_o every_o thing_n true_o good_a will_v that_o which_o god_n nill_v and_o nill_v that_o which_o he_o will_v his_o affection_n turn_v all_o mutinous_a disorderly_a disturb_a and_o confuse_a furious_o rush_v on_o prohibit_v object_n as_o the_o horse_n rush_v into_o the_o battle_n and_o what_o moving_n of_o they_o be_v towards_o any_o command_a object_n these_o be_v altogether_o irregular_a not_o so_o much_o as_o one_o of_o they_o move_v towards_o any_o such_o object_n pure_o or_o primar_o because_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n command_v his_o memory_n quite_o lose_v its_o re●entive_a faculty_n as_o to_o the_o remember_v of_o any_o thing_n spiritual_o good_a in_o the_o way_n it_o shall_v have_v be_v remember_v it_o become_v in_o that_o respect_n as_o a_o leck_n vessel_n all_o such_o thing_n slip_v and_o run_v through_o and_o out_o of_o it_o his_o conscience_n be_v de●ed_v and_o make_v guilty_a become_v clamorous_a unquiet_a challenge_v and_o accuse_v boisterous_a and_o stormy_a fill_v he_o with_o horror_n and_o when_o not_o stupefy_v and_o benumb_v with_o spiritual_o lethargic_a security_n or_o cauterised_a p●ing_v he_o upon_o the_o rack_n and_o make_v a_o kind_n of_o hell_n in_o his_o bosom_n so_o that_o he_o be_v magur_n ●issabib_fw-la terror_n round_o about_o even_o his_o own_o burrio_fw-la and_o tormente●_n all_o the_o member_n of_o his_o body_n be_v yield_v to_o be_v the_o weapon_n of_o unrighteousness_n to_o sin_n so_o that_o all_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o his_o ●oul_n and_o member_n of_o his_o body_n be_v on_o the_o sudden_a up_o in_o arm_n in_o hostility_n and_o rebellion_n against_o god_n proclaim_v and_o wage_n war_n with_o he_o and_o on_o the_o matter_n blasphemous_o bid_v he_o a_o defiance_n o_o ●ad_a and_o sorrowful_a revolution_n in_o and_o on_o the_o little_a world_n man._n heu_fw-la quantum_fw-la mutatus_fw-la abillo_fw-la god_n make_v he_o upright_o but_o he_o seek_v out_o to_o himself_o many_o invention_n woe_n to_o we_o for_o we_o have_v sin_v and_o the_o crown_n have_v fall_v from_o our_o head_n and_o by_o the_o loss_n of_o our_o original_a righteousness_n and_o the_o corruption_n of_o our_o whole_a nature_n with_o the_o innumerable_a actual_a sin_n and_o transgression_n that_o flow_v from_o thence_o we_o bear_v alas_o a_o great_a deal_n more_o of_o the_o image_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o of_o the_o brute_n than_o we_o do_v of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n the_o re-introduction_n restauration_n and_o renovation_n of_o the_o pristine_a beautiful_a conformity_n to_o the_o glorious_a image_n of_o god_n with_o their_o reconciliation_n and_o justification_n through_o his_o satisfaction_n to_o divine_a justice_n in_o some_o of_o the_o universal_o lapse_v and_o lose_a posterity_n of_o adam_n even_o all_o the_o elect_a and_o gift_v one_o to_o the_o mediator_n to_o be_v redeem_v sanctify_a and_o save_v by_o he_o in_o order_n to_o the_o capacl●ating_n of_o they_o to_o enjoy_v fellowship_n with_o god_n forefault_v by_o the_o fall_n and_o that_o by_o a_o new_a creation_n the_o very_a splendour_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n be_v the_o great_a earand_n and_o bussiness_n for_o which_o christ_n jesus_n come_v into_o the_o world_n who_o be_v the_o head_n and_o foundation-stone_n of_o this_o new_a creation_n have_v gracious●_n undertake_v to_o prepare_v sanctify_v and_o glorify_v his_o mystical_a body_n or_o all_o the_o elect_v give_v to_o he_o by_o jehovab_n which_o he_o according_o effect_v and_o bring_v to_o pass_v by_o regenerate_v they_o by_o sanctify_v they_o and_o by_o carry_v on_o this_o work_n of_o sanctification_n in_o the_o growth_n and_o gradual_a advance_n thereof_o till_o it_o be_v perfect_v and_o consummate_v in_o glory_n whereby_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o man_n be_v again_o renew_v and_o restore_v both_o in_o their_o soul_n and_o body_n respective_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n now_o in_o this_o life_n and_o shall_v be_v perfect_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v where_o as_o they_o shall_v all_o see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v intuitive_o face_n to_o face_n and_o enjoy_v he_o full_o and_o immediate_o without_o any_o the_o least_o moment_n interruption_n through_o all_o eternity_n so_o they_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o perfect_o like_o he_o according_a to_o creature_n capacity_n resemble_v he_o to_o the_o very_a ●fe_n all_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o their_o soul_n partake_v of_o this_o renew_a work_n the_o understanding_n be_v saving_o enlighten_v the_o will_v rectify_v the_o affection_n reduce_v ●nto_o order_n the_o memory_n strengthen_v and_o the_o conscience_n much_o cleanse_v and_o calm_v and_o put_v into_o a_o capacity_n as_o to_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v so_o to_o excuse_v allow_v and_o absolve_v as_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o either_o and_o they_o put_v to_o make_v it_o their_o great_a bussiness_n about_o which_o they_o allow_v themselves_o to_o be_v exercise_v always_o to_o have_v it_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n which_o conscience_n with_o the_o concern_v thereof_o be_v the_o great_a theme_n and_o subject_n of_o these_o choice_n search_v and_o savoury_a sermon_n wherein_n if_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n that_o do_v not_o so_o full_o answer_v expectation_n let_v it_o be_v impute_v to_o the_o writer_n from_o his_o own_o mou●h_n who_o copple_n be_v so_o very_o incorrect_a that_o the_o fit_v it_o for_o the_o view_n of_o the_o world_n have_v cause_v no_o small_a labour_n to_o i_o i_o need_v say_v the_o less_o of_o it_o only_o in_o general_n i_o will_v humble_o offer_v these_o few_o thing_n first_o we_o will_v above_o all_o thing_n look_v well_o that_o once_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n not_o only_o moral_o that_o be_v when_o conscience_n judge_v itself_o bind_v to_o own_o god_n reveal_v will_n for_o its_o rule_n and_o when_o it_o impell_v or_o push_v the_o man_n to_o act_v according_a to_o that_o rule_n and_o withal_o the_o more_o ordinary_a disposition_n of_o his_o will_n be_v 〈◊〉_d comply_v with_o these_o impulse_n of_o his_o conscience_n which_o may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o special_a or_o save_a grace_n but_o gracious_o so_o which_o necessary_o presupposeth_a a_o state_n of_o regeneration_n and_o the_o heart_n apply_v itself_o by_o faith_n the_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v which_o both_o purge_v and_o ●acifieth_v cleanse_v and_o calm_v the_o conscience_n which_o speak_v better_a thing_n than_o the_o b●ood_a of_o a●el_n yea_o have_v a_o cry_n abl●_n to_o outcry_n the_o loud_a cry_n of_o the_o most_o clamorous_a and_o guilty_a conscience_n and_o be_v that_o wherein_o all_o disquiet_v challenger_n and_o ●ccusations_n for_o sin●_n be_v only_o safe_o sink_v and_o and_o put_v to_o silence_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v never_o again_o swim_v above_o and_o ra●k_v to_o the_o final_a sorrow_n and_o shame_n of_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v through_o gra●e_a to_o take_v this_o course_n with_o they_o as_o the_o now-sunk_a and_o any_o other_o way_n silence_v challenge_n of_o most_o man_n and_o woman_n will_v once_o most_o certain_o rise_v on_o they_o and_o speak_v at_o a_o high_a rate_n against_o they_o never_o any_o more_o to_o hold_v their_o peace_n from_o grievous_o gall_v and_o gnaw_v accusation_n for_o to_o the_o unclean_a and_o unbelieve_a nothing_o be_v pure_a but_o even_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v second_o the_o conscience_n be_v thus_o make_v good_a we_o will_v endeavour_v by_o all_o suitable_a mean_n to_o keep_v it_o so_o that_o we_o may_v be_v in_o case_n on_o warrantable_a and_o good_a ground_n to_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a
conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o and_o if_o at_o any_o time_n the_o conscience_n of_o the_o christian_a be_v defile_v and_o wound_v by_o new_a contract_a pollution_n and_o guilt_n and_o challenge_n begin_v thence_o to_o arise_v and_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o will_v be_v on_o all_o such_o occasion_n fresh_a believe_a application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o thereby_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n purge_v from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o endeavour_n will_v be_v renew_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n to_o walk_v more_o tender_o without_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n towards_o which_o these_o sermon_n abound_v with_o variety_n of_o choice_n and_o excellent_a direction_n and_o help_n three_o and_o more_o particular_o we_o will_v study_v to_o have_v our_o conscience_n well_o and_o thorough_o inform_v by_o intimate_fw-la acquaintance_n with_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o all_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o believe_v and_o do_v so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o case_n to_o discharge_v its_o office_n and_o duty_n aright_o whether_o in_o dictate_v or_o in_o testify_v or_o in_o judge_v a_o ill_a inform_v conscience_n especial_o where_o there_o be_v any_o zeal_n or_o forwardness_n strong_o push_v and_o surious_o drive_v man_n to_o many_o dangerous_a distract_a and_o destructive_a practice_n have_v not_o this_o drive_a man_n to_o kill_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n as_o himself_o foretell_v and_o in_o do_v so_o to_o think_v that_o they_o do_v god_n service_n do_v not_o this_o hurry_n on_o paul_n before_o his_o conversion_n to_o persecute_v caller_n on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o to_o make_v havoc_n of_o the_o church_n by_o draw_v and_o drag_v the_o disciple_n both_o man_n and_o woman_n bind_v to_o prison_n and_o by_o cruel_a persecute_v of_o they_o even_o to_o strange_a city_n compel_v they_o to_o blaspheme_v so_o exceed_o mad_a be_v he_o as_o himself_o confess_v against_o they_o o_o what_o terrible_a and_o tragical_a thing_n have_v this_o set_a man_n on_o to_o do_v and_o what_o m●d_a work_n have_v it_o make_v in_o some_o place_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o many_o lesser_a impertinency_n extravagancy_n and_o disturbance_n in_o particular_a christian_a society_n four_o we_o will_v endeavour_v to_o have_v the_o conscience_n deep_o impress_v with_o due_a and_o dee●_n u●neration_n awe_n and_o dread_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n the_o supreme_a lord_n of_o and_o great_a lawgiver_n to_o the_o conscience_n who_o law_n and_o command_n be_v only_o proper_o direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o obligatory_a thereof_o because_o the_o conscience_n and_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v proper_o subject_a only_o to_o god_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o moreover_o because_o man_n can_v immediate_o judge_v the_o conscience_n nor_o know_v they_o the_o secret_a motion_n thereof_o and_o final_o because_o he_o can_v only_o inflict_v spiritual_a punishment_n on_o the_o sin_v conscience_n all_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o man_n in_o what_o ever_o capacity_n be_v only_o obligatory_a of_o the_o conscience_n mediate_o indirect_o and_o consequential_o viz._n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v consistent_a compliant_a and_o agreeable_a with_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o the_o absolute_o supreme_a lawgiver_n or_o not_o repugnant_a thereunto_o for_o certain_o he_o have_v not_o give_v a_o dispensation_n to_o any_o power_n on_o earth_n civil_a or_o ecclesiastic_a to_o countermand_v his_o command_n or_o to_o enjoin_v obedience_n ●o_o command_v contrary_a to_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o his_o own_o who_o command_n be_v immediate_o and_o inviolable_o bind_v of_o the_o conscience_n of_o superior_n and_o magistrate_n though_o the_o great_a monarch_n on_o earth_n as_o well_o as_o of_o inferior_n and_o subject_n all_o without_o exception_n be_v inferior_n and_o subject_n to_o he_o yet_o such_o law_n of_o man_n as_o do_v either_o press_v or_o declare_v the_o command_n and_o law_n of_o god_n and_o make_v for_o the_o conservation_n and_o observation_n thereof_o oblige_v in_o conscience_n because_o such_o law_n as_o they_o be_v such_o participate_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o force_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v direct_o and_o immediate_o command_v subjection_n to_o the_o superior_a power_n therefore_o even_o in_o reference_n to_o the●●njust_a law_n and_o such_o as_o be_v repugnant_a to_o or_o 〈◊〉_d with_o the_o divine_a law_n subject_n be_v oblige_v in_o 〈◊〉_d not_o to_o re●use_v obedience_n to_o they_o out_o of_o any_o contempt_n of_o lawful_a authority_n let_v ●e_n to_o disca●m_v an●_n renounce_v the_o same_o as_o some_o poor_a seduce_v and_o delude_v person_n do_v in_o these_o day_n ●ther_o ou●_n of_o ignorance_n or_o humour_n or_o misguide●_n zeal_n to_o the_o great_a reproach_n of_o religion_n not_o to_o admit_v 〈◊〉_d any_o thing_n that_o m●_n have_v in_o it_o the_o 〈◊〉_d appearance_n of_o offence_n and_o scandal_n that_o way_n because_o the_o contempt_n o●_n lawful_a authority_n and_o the_o ●andal_n of_o other_o be_v in_o themselves_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o still_o as_o no_o ●eer_n humane_a law_n do_v direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o as_o i_o say_v bind_v the_o conscience_n so_o neither_o have_v god_n give_v a_o power_n to_o any_o of_o the_o superior_a power_n on_o earth_n to_o enjoy_v obedience_n to_o command_n that_o be_v cross_a to_o his_o own_o injunction_n which_o all_o be_v oblige_v indispensable_o to_o obey_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o strange_a but_o even_o stupendous_a for_o any_o christian_n especial_o such_o as_o pretend_v to_o be_v protestant_n confident_o to_o assert_v and_o bol●●o_o publish_v to_o the_o world_n as_o mr._n hobbs_n do_v in_o his_o leviathan_n a_o book_n design_v by_o he_o as_o i_o have_v be_v inform_v to_o compliment_n cromwell_n against_o the_o writer_n own_o conscience_n such_o as_o it_o be_v p._n 168._o that_o no_o private_a man_n be_v judge_v of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n in_o a_o common_a wealth_n under_o civil_a law_n and_o that_o the_o mea●ure_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n be_v the_o civil_a law_n of_o action_n civilv_v good_a why_o not_o but_o of_o action_n simple_o good_a and_o evil_n as_o his_o assertion_n carry_v wh●_n what_o reason_n or_o shadow_n of_o reason_n god_n never_o have_v give_v no●_n assign_v such_o a_o rule_n we_o may_v thus_o throw_v away_o ou●_n bibles_n as_o the_o rule_n of_o good_a and_o eull_a arion_n and_o all_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o the_o civil_a law_n as_o the_o only_a rule_n and_o the_o legis_fw-la l●tor_fw-la the_o alone_a judge_n since_o he_o may_v as_o well_o divest_v a_o man_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o unman_n he_o as_o deprive_v he_o of_o a_o private_a judgement_n of_o discretion_n or_o of_o a_o private_a discretive_a judgement_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o own_o action_n the_o so●er_a exercise_n whereof_o be_v no_o assume_v to_o himself_o in_o ●he_n least_o the_o capaci●e_n of_o a_o public_a judge_n and_o it_o at_o any_o time_n in_o any_o thing_n rela●ing_v to_o ●is_n 〈◊〉_d act_n this_o judgement_n of_o private_a discretion_n fall_v to_o thwart_v the_o law_n or_o public_a judgement_n he_o adven●es_v on_o that_o cum_fw-la peric●lo_fw-la or_o on_o his_o pe●l_n but_o it_o can_v in_o reason_n utter_o rob_v he_o of_o it_o since_o as_o be_v say_v he_o can_v as_o soon_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o man_n or_o a_o rational_a creature_n as_o to_o have_v that_o quite_o deny_v he_o or_o take_v from_o he_o &_o to_o what_o end_n or_o purpose_n shall_v he_o be_v privilege_v with_o this_o above_o brute_n i●_n the_o exercise_n of_o ●t_a shall_v be_v for_o ever_o suspend_v in_o the_o member_n of_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n as_o almo●_n all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n be_v what_o sound_a and_o orthodox_n divine_a or_o sound_v christian_a lawyer_n ever_o teach_v such_o doctrine_n the_o learned_a doctor_n ames_n tell●_n we_o in_o the_o 4._o co_z olary_o and_o very_o last_o word_n of_o his_o first_o book_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n that_o interpretatio_fw-la scripturae_fw-la vel_fw-la judicium_fw-la ●scernere_fw-la voluntatem_fw-la dei_fw-la pertinet_fw-la ad_fw-la quemlibet_fw-la in_o foro_fw-la consc●tiae_fw-la pro_fw-la 〈◊〉_d and_o page_n 169._o of_o the_o forecited_n book_n the_o same_o hobbs_n say_v that_o he_o who_o be_v subject_a to_o no_o civil_a law_n sin_v in_o ●ll_o that_o ●e_n do_v against_o his_o conscience_n yet_o ●t_a be_v not_o so_o with_o he_o who_o live_v in_o a_o common_a
their_o religion_n in_o that_o be_v much_o darken_v and_o insensible_o prejudicate_v as_o to_o their_o light_n when_o they_o come_v up_o the_o length_n or_o near_o the_o length_n of_o that_o light_n conscience_n speak_v and_o give_v its_o testimony_n according_o and_o they_o have_v thence_o a_o sort_n of_o peace_n but_o it_o be_v not_o the_o peace_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n 4._o a_o natural_a man_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n may_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n and_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o respect_n as_o he_o may_v pray_v and_o have_v some_o moral_a sincerity_n in_o it_o and_o ●o_o as_o he_o will_v ●ain_o have_v a_o hear_n and_o will_v some_o way_n have_v his_o heart_n pray_v ●ay_v he_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o delight_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o those_o hypocrite_n isa._n 58._o 2._o he_o will_v ●ain_o know_v what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o he_o do_v not_o deliberate_o thwart_v with_o his_o light_n in_o this_o respect_n paul_n say_v of_o himself_o before_o his_o conversion_n that_o as_o touch_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n he_o be_v blameless_a and_o rom._n 10._o 1._o he_o bear_v the_o jew_n record_n that_o they_o have_v a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o what_o i_o pray_v be_v this_o but_o conscience_n un-informed_n in_o and_o ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n from_o which_o ignorance_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o of_o the_o way_n of_o come_v to_o he_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n so_o than_o the_o natural_a man_n or_o hypocrite_n when_o he_o have_v come_v the_o length_n of_o some_o honest_a meaning_n be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o he_o have_v do_v very_o well_o and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o though_o he_o may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o some_o respect_n or_o in_o these_o respect_v mention_v and_o the_o like_a yet_o to_o have_v it_o simple_o and_o positive_o from_o solid_a and_o good_a ground_n give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n be_v impossible_a and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o have_v not_o the_o word_n go_v along_o with_o his_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o whole_a carriage_n and_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o principle_n motive_n end_n and_o design_n of_o his_o action_n testify_v for_o he_o and_o therefore_o i_o say_v he_o have_v not_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n for_o the_o next_o question_n wherein_o be_v this_o conscience_n defective_a and_o what_o be_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o it_o and_o a_o believer_n good_a conscience_n or_o how_o may_v it_o be_v know_v as_o differ_v from_o a_o honest_a gospel_n conscience_n answer_v 1_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o rise_n there_o be_v a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n for_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v blind_a if_o the_o understanding_n be_v dark_a the_o conscience_n must_v be_v so_o too_o they_o have_v say_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o jew_n a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n however_o zealous_a they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o other_o such_o may_v be_v yet_o they_o be_v ignorant_a in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o extent_n and_o spiritual_a meaning_n of_o the_o law_n suppose_v for_o instance_n that_o a_o man_n keep_v the_o six_o command_n when_o he_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o any_o gross_a act_n of_o murder_n and_o the_o seven_o when_o he_o do_v not_o actual_o commit_v adultery_n or_o fornication_n not_o know_v or_o consider_v that_o a_o look_v arise_v from_o the_o flame_n of_o lust_n within_o be_v a_o breach_n of_o that_o command_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o command_v even_o as_o the_o pharisee_n conform_v the_o law_n in_o the_o meaning_n thereof_o to_o their_o own_o practice_n and_o not_o their_o practice_n to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o law_n 2._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o of_o that_o which_o give_v the_o conscience_n solid_a ground_n to_o speak_v peace_n many_o if_o they_o have_v a_o honest_a meaning_n in_o their_o pray_n read_v of_o the_o scripture_n wait_v on_o public_a ordinance_n if_o they_o put_v their_o body_n to_o some_o sort_n of_o penance_n or_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v if_o it_o be_v the_o half_a of_o their_o estate_n to_o have_v their_o soul_n safe_a and_o if_o they_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o seriousness_n in_o all_o this_o think_v that_o all_o be_v well_o with_o they_o and_o that_o they_o have_v a_o very_a good_a conscience_n if_o this_o piece_n of_o ignorance_n be_v well_o discern_v never_o one_o soul_n out_o of_o christ_n will_v have_v peace_n because_o none_o out_o of_o christ_n have_v solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n for_o none_o have_v their_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n but_o these_o that_o be_v in_o he_o 3._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o their_o particular_a case_n they_o know_v not_o what_o sin_n they_o be_v guilty_a of_o nor_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o they_o they_o think_v it_o speak_v better_a thing_n to_o they_o then_o indeed_o it_o do_v some_o guess_n at_o it_o some_o misinterpret_v it_o and_o some_o repeal_v it_o whereas_o if_o they_o be_v sober_o reflect_v on_o and_o impartial_o look_v to_o their_o manner_n of_o proceed_v in_o every_o thing_n they_o will_v see_v that_o they_o mistake_v their_o conscience_n exceed_o this_o then_o be_v the_o first_o defect_n viz._n a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n the_o second_o be_v a_o defect_n as_o to_o singleness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o natural_a man_n best_a condition_n such_o be_v never_o single_a when_o at_o their_o very_a best_a even_o when_o they_o be_v most_o serious_a in_o prayer_n they_o be_v but_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n when_o they_o fast_o and_o give_v alm_n and_o the_o like_a it_o be_v that_o they_o may_v have_v some_o ground_n for_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o themselves_o or_o that_o other_o may_v have_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o they_o be_v always_o act_v from_o selfy_a motive_n and_o for_o self-end_n a_o 3d._a defect_n be_v the_o want_n of_o unbiased_a affection_n these_o be_v partial_a and_o bias_v will_v put_v the_o man_n to_o reason_n and_o dispute_v for_o the_o silence_v of_o his_o conscience_n and_o this_o eye_n not_o be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n affection_n be_v incline_v or_o swey_v to_o this_o or_o that_o side_n they_o will_v seek_v to_o ●way_n conscience_n to_o that_o side_n they_o incline_v to_o this_o be_v it_o that_o make_v some_o to_o follow_v after_o and_o to_o haunt_v the_o company_n of_o those_o who_o be_v erroneous_a in_o their_o judgement_n notwithstanding_o that_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n to_o the_o contrary_n lay_v before_o they_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o they_o reject_v and_o that_o without_o challenge_n be_v quite_o bias_v and_o prejudge_v in_o their_o affection_n thus_o many_o natural_a man_n lay_v this_o for_o a_o conclusion_n that_o so_o much_o only_o be_v holiness_n and_o that_o no_o more_o be_v needful_a and_o what_o be_v more_o be_v but_o superfluous_a niceness_n and_o so_o they_o prejudge_v their_o conscience_n by_o that_o 4._o it_o be_v defective_a in_o this_o that_o it_o maintain_v not_o its_o peace_n nor_o answer_v its_o challenge_n from_o christ_n blood_n it_o be_v not_o sprinkle_v with_o clean_a but_o with_o foul_a water_n to_o say_v so_o it_o may_v be_v it_o put_v the_o man_n to_o take_v on_o some_o resolution_n or_o to_o come_v under_o some_o vow_n as_o to_o somewhat_o that_o it_o may_v be_v be_v no_o command_v duty_n of_o religion_n not_o have_v any_o valuable_a influence_n upon_o it_o or_o he_o will_v as_o it_o be_v sprinkle_v his_o conscience_n with_o his_o tear_n thus_o many_o will_v grant_v that_o they_o have_v sin_v but_o withal_o they_o think_v and_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a heart_n or_o a_o good_a meaning_n or_o that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o man_n well_o esteem_v of_o have_v such_o a_o sin_n and_o be_v as_o guilty_a as_o they_o be_v or_o that_o many_o have_v have_v such_o si●s_n who_o yet_o have_v go_v to_o heaven_n on_o such_o and_o other_o the_o like_a pitiful_a ground_n they_o find_v their_o peace_n and_o by_o such_o silly_a shift_n they_o seek_v to_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n yea_o sometime_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o possibility_n of_o pardon_n many_o conclude_v confident_o that_o they_o be_v actual_o pardon_v we_o shall_v forbear_v to_o say_v any_o thing_n further_o at_o this_o time_n god_n
saint_n by_o the_o fall_n but_o of_o some_o hot_a scald_a drop_n of_o god_n fatherly_a wrath_n and_o displeasure_n have_v be_v bring_v near_o the_o length_n of_o wish_v rather_o for_o strangle_v though_o merciful_o keep_v from_o it_o and_o make_v to_o abhor_v it_o than_o life_n as_o it_o be_v with_o non_fw-la such_o holy_a job_n who_o look_v on_o death_n a_o violent_a death_n as_o a_o easy_a matter_n be_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o wrath_n and_o to_o be_v set_v up_o as_o the_o mark_n for_o god_n arrow_n to_o be_v shoot_v at_o the_o venom_n whereof_o to_o his_o apprehension_n drink_v up_o his_o spirit_n though_o all_o the_o while_o he_o be_v keep_v up_o in_o the_o faith_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o god_n and_o of_o his_o love_n to_o he_o to_o his_o purpose_n human_a heavy_o complain_v psal._n 88_o i_o be_o afflict_v and_o ready_a to_o die_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v if_o it_o be_v sometime_o do_v thus_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n even_o the_o green_a what_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o the_o dry_a now_o the_o conscience_n be_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n the_o receptacle_n of_o all_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n it_o must_v therefore_o certain_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a thing_n to_o have_v a_o awake_v ill_a conscience_n if_o a_o ill_a and_o unpurged_a conscience_n be_v silent_a and_o a_o sleep_n it_o be_v in_o some_o respect_n worse_o for_o it_o have_v this_o black_a and_o dreadful_a awaken_v abide_v it_o and_o the_o long_o it_o sleep_v and_o keep_v silence_n the_o the_o wakn_n will_v be_v the_o more_o terrible_a and_o its_o cry_n the_o loud_o it_o be_v all_o the_o while_n of_o its_o silence_n and_o sleep_v treasure_v up_o more_o wrath_n whereby_o the_o poor_a wretch_n will_v be_v pay_v home_o with_o multiply_a increase_n of_o terror_n and_o horror_n o_o that_o you_o know_v how_o evil_a a_o thing_n how_o very_o evil_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n not_o purge_v from_o dead_a work_n a_o conscience_n not_o sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o no_o stranger_n can_v intermiddle_v with_o the_o joy_n of_o a_o man_n spirit_n who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n a_o conscience_n sprinkle_v and_o purge_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n so_o no_o man_n can_v to_o the_o full_a represent_v to_o you_o the_o exceed_a terribleness_n of_o the_o terror_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n when_o awake_v by_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n plead_v and_o pursue_v a_o quarrel_n with_o the_o soul_n which_o quarrel_n he_o be_v infinite_o powerful_a to_o avenge_v it_o will_v be_v very_o suitable_a to_o be_v often_o inquire_v at_o ourselves_o what_o be_v become_v of_o the_o quarrel_n and_o what_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o confidence_n towards_o god_n be_v there_o we_o will_v all_o most_o certain_o and_o inavoidable_o be_v put_v on_o this_o great_a trial_n o_o suffer_v not_o yourselves_o to_o be_v so_o far_o delude_v as_o to_o think_v that_o a_o silent_a and_o stupid_a conscience_n be_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o have_v no_o danger_n with_o it_o which_o be_v as_o great_a folly_n as_o to_o think_v that_o a_o feeless_a and_o benumb_a member_n of_o the_o body_n be_v thereby_o in_o ●o_o danger_n nay_o the_o danger_n be_v so_o much_o the_o great_a 2_o observe_v that_o though_o all_o man_n natural_o be_v under_o thi●_n evil_a of_o a_o unpurged_a conscience_n yet_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n god_n have_v lay_v down_o a_o way_n how_o sinner_n may_v get_v their_o conscience_n purge_v this_o be_v the_o apostle_n scope_n in_o both_o these_o scripture_n even_o to_o lay_v a_o solid_a ground_n for_o the_o consolation_n of_o believer_n and_o for_o a_o high_a commendation_n of_o god_n grace_n viz._n that_o by_o application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n there_o be_v as_o a_o real_a purge_n of_o the_o conscience_n from_o sin_n win_v at_o as_o there_o be_v access_n make_v to_o person_n ceremonial_o unclean_a by_o these_o sacrifice_n and_o wash_n under_o the_o law_n to_o external_a church-priviledge_n be_v ceremonia_o cleanse_v thereby_o which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o the_o sin_n commit_v have_v never_o real_o and_o actual_o be_v so_o as_o the_o purge_a believer_n shall_v neither_o remember_v it_o nor_o repent_v of_o it_o that_o be_v not_o at_o all_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o doctrine_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v legal_o that_o as_o to_o the_o remove_n of_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o as_o to_o his_o have_a peace_n with_o god_n and_o in_o his_o own_o conscience_n it_o be_v purge_v so_o as_o sin_n can_v stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o his_o expect_a god_n favour_n nor_o simple_o in_o the_o way_n of_o his_o delight_a himself_o therein_o more_o than_o if_o it_o have_v never_o be_v though_o the_o man_n be_v the_o debtor_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o way_n lay_v down_o in_o the_o gospel_n covenant_n to_o declare_v he_o free_a even_o as_o a_o man_n that_o have_v play_v the_o dyvour_n or_o bankrupt_a though_o he_o can_v simple_o and_o in_o all_o respect_n be_v make_v as_o if_o he_o have_v never_o be_v so_o yet_o by_o another_o pay_n of_o the_o debt_n he_o be_v before_o the_o judge_n acquit_v and_o be_v reckon_v free_a of_o the_o debt_n as_o if_o it_o have_v never_o be_v contract_v or_o owe_v and_o as_o to_o any_o effect_n that_o may_v in_o law_n follow_v on_o it_o to_o his_o prejudice_n just_o so_o be_v it_o here_o with_o the_o sinner_n that_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o the_o word_n purge_v sufficient_o hold_v it_o out_o especial_o when_o it_o be_v join_v with_o come_v with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n for_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v to_o such_o a_o sinner_n how_o can_v thou_o how_o dare_v thou_o come_v to_o god_n with_o such_o confidence_n that_o have_v a_o ill_a conscience_n through_o so_o much_o sin_n he_o answer_v let_v we_o draw_v near_o or_o come_v have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n so_o that_o as_o to_o a_o confident_a approach_n to_o god_n and_o application_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n person_n who_o have_v make_v application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v may_v come_v to_o god_n with_o as_o much_o holy_a and_o humble_a boldness_n as_o if_o the_o conscience_n have_v never_o be_v defile_v and_o pollure_v and_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o saint_n who_o in_o this_o way_n have_v find_v peace_n and_o confidence_n be_v a_o great_a evidence_n and_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o 3_o to_o come_v a_o little_a near_o we_o may_v observe_v in_o the_o negative_a that_o there_o be_v no_o way_n for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v once_o have_v his_o conscience_n defile_v and_o pollute_v with_o sin_n to_o be_v cleanse_v and_o purge_v from_o it_o but_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n if_o we_o look_v through_o this_o 9th_o chapter_n from_o the_o beginning_n and_o the_o follow_a 10_o chapter_n we_o will_v find_v that_o the_o apostle_n scope_n be_v to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o blood_n of_o bull_n or_o of_o calf_n nor_o any_o one_o or_o all_o of_o these_o ceremonial_a sacrifice_n wash_n or_o purgation_n that_o can_v do_v the_o business_n as_o he_o more_o particular_o clear_v five_o 9_o of_o the_o 9_o chap._n where_o the_o apostle_n insinuat_v that_o though_o god_n appoint_v many_o mean_n and_o midst_n of_o purgation_n yet_o if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o more_o but_o these_o they_o can_v never_o have_v effect_v the_o perfyte_n of_o a_o man_n as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v only_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n that_o have_v this_o effect_n and_o this_o one_o reason_n will_v confirm_v it_o viz._n that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o thing_n but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n and_o remove_v the_o quarrel_n that_o be_v betwixt_o he_o and_o the_o guilty_a sinner_n it_o be_v he_o only_o in_o who_o god_n be_v well_o please_v he_o be_v our_o peace_n and_o there_o be_v no_o name_n under_o heaven_n give_v whereby_o a_o sinner_n can_v be_v save_v but_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n and_o till_o god_n be_v satisfy_v the_o conscience_n can_v be_v quiet_a see_v then_o that_o nothing_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n bu●_n his_o blood_n there_o can_v nothing_o purge_v and_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n but_o it_o therefore_o david_n pray_v psal._n 51._o purge_v i_o with_o hyssop_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v clean_o where_o he_o all●ds_v and_o look_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v ●ypifyed_v by_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o blood_n with_o a_o bunsh_fw-mi of_o hyssop_n under_o the_o law_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v here_o as_o the_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n
this_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n but_o some_o tender_a and_o exercise_v soul_n will_v belike_o here_o object_n and_o say_v be_v it_o not_o presumption_n for_o i_o to_o comfort_v myself_o under_o challenge_n for_o sin_n i_o answer_v no_o thou_o take_v with_o the_o challenge_n and_o be_v humble_v for_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o and_o betake_v thyself_o to_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o pardon_n and_o purge_n because_o the_o apostle_n command_v thou_o to_o comfort_v thyself_o and_o sure_o he_o command_v none_o to_o presume_v to_o who_o i_o pray_v be_v it_o that_o he_o speak_v here_o be_v it_o not_o to_o they_o that_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n at_o least_o in_o part_n and_o what_o say_v he_o to_o they_o let_v we_o draw_v near_o in_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o on_o what_o ground_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n when_o the_o conscience_n through_o guilt_n challenge_v we_o be_v call_v to_o flee_v to_o this_o blood_n and_o have_v sprinkle_v it_o there_o with_o we_o have_v warrant_n to_o draw_v near_o and_o it_o be_v not_o presumption_n to_o do_v so_o nay_o rest_a on_o christ_n and_o comfort_v ourselves_o in_o he_o under_o challenge_n take_v with_o argue_v strong_a faith_n wherein_o he_o have_v great_a complacency_n and_o whereby_o he_o be_v much_o glorify_v for_o presumption_n will_v never_o stand_v before_o a_o evil_a conscience_n nor_o credit_n christ_n when_o conscience_n sharp_o challenge_v so_o that_o if_o you_o come_v by_o this_o new_a and_o live_a way_n it_o be_v not_o presumption_n to_o lean_a to_o christ_n but_o that_o be_v presumption_n to_o lean_a to_o any_o other_o thing_n nay_o the_o more_o humble_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n there_o be_v under_o challenge_n it_o argue_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v the_o more_o and_o the_o strong_a faith_n because_o it_o be_v the_o more_o sickerly_o found_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n and_o on_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o it_o give_v god_n most_o glory_n when_o the_o difficulty_n be_v great_a it_o be_v no_o great_a practic_a to_o calm_v the_o conscience_n when_o there_o be_v no_o storm_n but_o then_o indeed_o it_o be_v so_o when_o there_o be_v many_o wave_n and_o billow_n of_o challenge_n and_o discouragement_n rise_v and_o swell_v high_a in_o the_o way_n to_o go_v over_o all_o these_o and_o to_o grip_v hard_o to_o this_o rope_n cast_v out_o by_o he_o and_o confident_o though_o humble_o and_o in_o fear_n to_o make_v use_n of_o this_o remedy_n which_o he_o have_v gracious_o propose_v it_o will_v never_o be_v account_v presumption_n by_o he_o for_o serious_a soul_n to_o take_v to_o themselves_o god_n allowance_n on_o they_o which_o be_v strong_a consolation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v hot_o pursue_v and_o fly_v to_o this_o city_n of_o refuge_n but_o it_o may_v very_o ready_o be_v account_v presumption_n to_o cast_v at_o his_o allowance_n he_o know_v well_o who_o have_v the_o tongue_n of_o the_o learned_a when_o to_o give_v a_o word_n of_o consolation_n and_o to_o who_o and_o we_o be_v not_o to_o be_v wi●er_a than_o he_o the_o four_o use_n be_v for_o advertisement_n and_o warning_n to_o other_o who_o be_v not_o believer_n but_o lie_v still_o in_o unbelief_n and_o slight_a our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n o_o what_o a_o dreadful_a disadvantage_n and_o praemunire_n to_o speak_v so_o will_v you_o fall_v under_o your_o condition_n be_v fearful_a beyond_o what_o word_n can_v express_v or_o thought_n full_o comprehend_v though_o your_o conscience_n sleep_v now_o it_o will_v up_o upon_o you_o and_o the_o long_o it_o sleep_v it_o will_v to_o speak_v so_o waken_v the_o hungry_a and_o g●aw_v the_o sore●_n this_o o_o this_o be_v your_o great_a prejudice_n you_o make_v yourselves_o obnoxious_a to_o the_o fierce_a wrath_n of_o the_o almighty_a god_n and_o to_o the_o bite_v challenge_n and_o torment_a accusatson_n of_o your_o own_o evil_a conscience_n which_o will_v be_v more_o terrible_a to_o you_o then_o if_o hill_n and_o mountain_n do_v fall_v on_o you_o the_o one_o will_v be_v call_v and_o cry_v for_o as_o a_o favour_n in_o comparison_n of_o the_o other_o it_o will_v in_o that_o day_n appear_v that_o a_o evil_a conscience_n be_v and_o be_v a_o dreadful_o evil_a thing_n and_o you_o will_v have_v this_o aggravation_n of_o your_o guilt_n even_o the_o despise_v of_o the_o redeemer_n and_o of_o the_o dear_a price_n of_o his_o precious_a blood_n pave_v for_o the_o ransom_n of_o sinner_n of_o the_o physician_n that_o offer_v perfect_o at_o his_o own_o cost_n to_o cure_v you_o and_o of_o the_o cautioner_n that_o offer_v free_o and_o frank_o to_o pay_v your_o debt_n ●nd_v this_o will_v wait_v upon_o you_o to_o make_v the_o pricking_n and_o peircing_n the_o wound_n and_o stounding_n the_o ga●lings_n and_o gnawin●s_n of_o the_o conscience_n mo●e_n deep_a and_o intolerable_a therefore_o let_v ●e_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n who_o be_v in_o earnest_n with_o you_o and_o we_o desire_v according_a to_o our_o measure_n to_o be_v in_o earnest_n with_o you_o warn_v you_o to_o flee_v from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v o_o know_v that_o you_o have_v conscience_n and_o that_o they_o as_o i_o say_v before_o will_v once_o awake_v and_o when_o they_o shall_v begin_v to_o be_v rouse_v o_o but_o they_o will_v challenge_v and_o accuse_v in_o a_o dreadful_a manner_n lay_v your_o account_n to_o meet_v with_o such_o un_fw-fr answerable_a challenge_n and_o confound_a accusation_n and_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o ground_n whereon_o you_o can_v with_o safety_n bottom_n the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o your_o immortal_a soul_n but_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n if_o nothing_o can_v possible_o purge_v and_o pacify_v cleanse_v and_o calm_v the_o conscience_n but_o come_v to_o and_o wash_v at_o this_o fountain_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n o_o come_v in_o time_n if_o you_o can_v wash_v yourselves_o put_v he_o to_o it_o as_o david_n do_v psal._n 51._o when_o he_o cry_v wash_v i_o cleanse_v i_o purge_v i_o wash_v i_o thorough_o from_o my_o iniquity_n it_o will_v be_v no_o excuse_n i_o assure_v you_o it_o will_v be_v no_o plea_n nor_o apology_n for_o you_o in_o the_o great_a day_n to_o allege_v that_o you_o can_v not_o do_v it_o since_o he_o offer_v himself_o as_o a_o fountain_n to_o wash_v at_o and_o to_o wash_v you_o all_o in_o particular_a that_o hear_v i_o this_o day_n and_o be_v do_v so_o very_o serious_o just_a now_o if_o you_o will_v employ_v and_o put_v he_o to_o it_o consider_v that_o sad_a word_n jer._n 13._o 27._o wo_n unthee_o o_o jerusalem_n will_v thou_o not_o be_v make_v clean_o when_o shall_v it_o once_o be_v it_o be_v not_o can_v thou_o not_o make_v thyself_o clean_o but_o will_v thou_o not_o be_v make_v clean_o to_o wit_n by_o i_o who_o be_o able_a to_o do_v it_o and_o offer_v to_o do_v it_o free_o if_o thou_o be_v but_o honest_o willing_a this_o will_v be_v the_o loud_a and_o terrible_a voice_n wherewith_o god_n and_o the_o conscience_n will_v in_o that_o day_n cry_v to_o many_o a_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o live_v under_o the_o gospel_n and_o have_v this_o offer_n woe_n to_o thou_o thou_o will_v not_o be_v make_v clean_o thou_o will_v not_o make_v use_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v when_o it_o be_v in_o thy_o offer_n thou_o will_v not_o come_v to_o he_o that_o thou_o may_v have_v life_n thou_o will_v not-take_a he_o for_o a_o physician_n to_o hea●_n thou_o but_o choose_v rather_o to_o lie_v still_o wallow_v in_o thy_o filthiess_n and_o to_o rot_v away_o and_o die_v in_o thy_o sore_n and_o wound_n then_o to_o come_v to_o he_o to_o be_v cleanse_v and_o cure_v by_o he_o though_o he_o offer_v to_o do_v both_o very_o free_o among_o all_o the_o w●es_v that_o will_v be_v denounce_v then_o and_o execute_v against_o sinner_n those_o against_o profess_v christian_n who_o live_v under_o this_o gospel_n and_o refuse_v to_o come_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o life_n and_o neglect_v so_o great_a a_o salvation_n will_v be_v the_o loud_a and_o most_o terrible_a the_o woe_n of_o chora●in_n and_o bethsaida_n and_o of_o capernaum_n will_v be_v more_o intolerable_a in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n than_o those_o of_o tyre_n and_o sidon_n yea_o the●_n those_o of_o sodom_n and_o gommorrah_n how_o yet_o more_o terrible_a and_o intolerable_a suppose_v you_o will_v be_v the_o woe_n and_o judgement_n of_o they_o that_o live_v now_o under_o the_o clear_a and_o bright_a sunshine_n of_o gospel-light_n let_v i_o therefore_o once_o more_o earnest_o beseech_v and_o obtest_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o love_n you_o profess_v to_o bear_v to_o your_o own_o immortal_a soul_n to_o take_v with_o your_o sin_n and_o to_o flee_v and_o speedy_o to_o flee_v to_o this_o city_n of_o refuge_n set_v open_a before_o you_o lest_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n the_o great_a avenger_n of_o this_o despise_a and_o trample_v on_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v overtake_v you_o if_o you_o seek_v not_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n by_o this_o new_a and_o live_a way_n but_o live_v and_o die_v under_o your_o defilement_n and_o at_o distance_n from_o he_o woe_n upon_o woe_n wo_n upon_o woe_n will_v eternal_o take_v hold_n of_o you_o finis_fw-la exod._n 22._o 28._o ps._n 82._o v._n 1._o 6._o john_n 10._o 34_o 35._o math._n 22._o v._n 21._o 1_o pet._n 2._o v._n 17._o rom._n 13._o v._n 1._o 5._o 1_o pet._n 2._o v._n 13._o 14._o 15._o tit._n 3._o v._n 1._o ●_o tit._n ●_o v_o 1_o 2_o it_o will_v be_v advert_v here_o at_o what_o time_n the_o author_n preach_v these_o sermon_n least_o several_a of_o his_o instance_n shall_v not_o seem_v so_o pertinent_a it_o be_v when_o temptation_n to_o these_o thing_n be_v strong_a this_o be_v in_o a_o time_n when_o place_n of_o power_n and_o trust_v be_v seek_v after_o offer_v and_o embrace_v under_o the_o usurper_n usurper_n the_o black-stone_n be_v a_o seat_n whereon_o in_o some_o of_o our_o university_n young_a scholar_n use_v to_o be_v set_v ordinary_o not_o without_o great_a bot●_n reluctation_n and_o fear_n when_o they_o be_v to_o ●e_v examine_v public_o by_o all_o the_o master_n anent_o their_o proficiency_n in_o learning_n
heaven_n upon_o earth_n in_o the_o serene_a tranquillity_n and_o calm_a composure_n in_o the_o sweet_a peace_n and_o solid_a joy_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n and_o exercise_v always_o to_o be_v void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o men._n bring_v down_o and_o hold_v forth_o in_o xxii_o very_o search_v sermon_n on_o several_a text_n of_o scripture_n to_o that_o purpose_n wherein_o many_o weighty_a and_o momentuous_a case_n of_o conscience_n great_o influence_v a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n be_v sober_o solid_o succinct_o and_o satisfy_o discuss_v several_a of_o which_o be_v not_o ready_o to_o be_v meet_v with_o in_o the_o wri●ngs_n of_o other_o divine_n on_o this_o subject_a by_o that_o learned_a and_o eminent_o conscienscious_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n mr._n james_n durham_n sometime_n preacher_n thereof_o at_o glasgow_n 1._o pet._n 3._o v._n 16._o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n that_o 〈◊〉_d they_o speak_v evil_a of_o you_o as_o evil_a doer_n they_o may_v be_v ashamed_a that_o false_o accuse_v your_o good_a conversation_n in_o christ._n edinburgh_n print_v by_o the_o heir_n of_o andrew_n 〈◊〉_d printer_n to_o the_o most_o sacred_a majesty_n anno_fw-la dom_fw-la 168●_n errata_fw-la courteous_a reader_n please_v ere_o thou_o read_v to_o correct_v these_o few_o escape_n of_o the_o press_n as_o page_n 12._o line_n 36._o read_v gross_a for_o great_a p._n 22._o l._n 36._o r._n inclination_n p._n 26._o l._n 20._o r._n dictate_v p._n 30._o l._n 22._o r._n as_o for_o it_o p._n 33._o l._n 29_o delet_fw-la no_o more_o p._n 57_o l._n ●_o r._n of_o fascination_n l._n 2._o d._n conceit_n l._n 20._o r._n on_o for_o one_o p._n 61._o l._n 22._o r._n first_o for_o 2d_o p._n 74._o l._n 4._o r._n thought_n p._n 75._o l._n 29_o r_o this_o for_o all_o p._n 87._o l._n 21._o r._n ordinary_a p._n 99_o l._n 10._o r._n thus_o for_o think_v p._n 104._o l_o 37._o r._n only_o for_o any_o p._n 119._o l._n 28._o r._n not_o leave_v p._n 136_o l._n 2._o r._n ere_o for_o if_o p._n 142_o l._n 26._o r._n person_n for_o people_n p._n 15●_n l._n 34._o r._n consideration_n p._n 151._o l._n 4._o r._n censor_n p._n 156._o l._n 29_o d._n divine_a p._n 182._o l._n 15_o put_v a_o point_n after_o testimony_n p._n 195_o l._n 34._o r._n b●ings_n p._n 204_o l._n 30._o r._n as_o for_o be_v l._n last_o r._n be_v for_o s_o p._n 234._o l._n 20._o r._n rational_a creature_n p._n 235_o l._n 4._o r._n concern_v they_o by_o self-examination_n p._n 256._o l._n 4._o r._n some_o way_n for_o some_o nay_o l._n 25._o r._n have_v for_o hand_n p._n 270._o l._n 5._o r._n as_o if_o he_o say_v p._n 303._o l._n 3._o r._n ourselves_o l._n 10_o r._n repentance_n p._n 308_o l._n 4._o r._n allow_v p._n 309._o l._n 7._o d._n full_a p._n 311._o l._n 11._o d._n so_o p._n 325._o put_v after_o sacrifice_n p._n 338._o l._n 12._o r._n observe_v more_o especial_o p._n 342._o l._n last_o r._n person_n p._n 343._o l._n 1._o r._n their_o for_o his_o p._n 344._o l._n last_o r._n they_o for_o it_o p._n 348._o l._n 20._o r._n a_o mistake_a law_n p._n 353._o l._n 8_o r._n he_o l._n 18._o d._n be_v p._n 358._o l._n 29._o r._n creature_n p._n 361._o l._n 6._o r._n for_o make_v p._n 364._o l._n 8._o r._n fain_o any_o other_o lesser_a literal_a escape_n mis-pointings_a or_o misplacing_n of_o some_o very_o few_o parenthesis_n as_o thou_o will_v pardon_v so_o thou_o will_v easy_o correct_v gentroso_fw-la vir●_n &_o amico_fw-la svo_fw-la multis_fw-la nominibus_fw-la plurimum_fw-la colendo_fw-la domino_fw-la alexandro_n durhamo_n domino_fw-la de_fw-fr largo_n clarissimi_fw-it authoris_fw-la filio_fw-la germano_n &_o ex_fw-la multis_fw-la quos_fw-la illi_fw-la deus_fw-la gratiosé_fw-fr dederat_fw-la liberis_fw-la nunc_fw-la tantum_fw-la superstiti_fw-la qui_fw-la defunctum_fw-la patrem_fw-la virum_fw-la illum_fw-la non_fw-la tantum_fw-la apud_fw-la nostrate_v sed_fw-la etiam_fw-la apud_fw-la exteros_fw-la celebrem_fw-la &_o veer_fw-la magni_fw-la nominis_fw-la quamvis_fw-la non_fw-la passibus_fw-la aequis_fw-la pro_fw-la svo_fw-la tamen_fw-la modulo_fw-la in_fw-la vijs_fw-la domini_fw-la serió_n sequitur_fw-la egregias_fw-la have_v de_fw-la conscienscia_fw-la conciones_fw-la conscionatoris_fw-la consciensciam_fw-la tenerrimam_fw-la &_o plane_n divinitus_fw-la illuminatam_fw-la suaviter_fw-la spirantes_fw-la in_fw-la sinceri_fw-la amoris_fw-la tesseram_fw-la &_o perpetuae_fw-la observantiae_fw-la testimonium_fw-la d._n d_o johannes_n carstares_n to_o the_o reader_n and_o more_o particular_o to_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o city_n of_o glasgow_n the_o microcosm_a or_o little_a world_n man_n a_o notable_o curious_a compend_v and_o ●abridgement_n as_o it_o be_v of_o the_o large_a one_o and_o the_o great_a master_n piece_n of_o all_o the_o visible_a work_n of_o god_n w●_n when_o he_o come_v from_o under_o the_o ha●d_a of_o the_o omnipotent_a creator_n in_o the_o first_o edition_n a_o little_a model_n and_o representation_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n have_v impress_v on_o he_o that_o bless_a and_o beautiful_a that_o amiable_a and_o admirable_a conformity_n to_o the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o god_n wherein_o consist_v the_o preeminency_n of_o his_o nature_n above_o that_o of_o all_o other_o creature_n in_o the_o visible_a ●r_n sublunary_a world_n be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a excellency_n that_o a_o create_a nature_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o a_o clear_a ray_n of_o divine_a majesty_n than_o his_o dominion_n over_o the_o other_o creature_n and_o which_o only_o make_v he_o capable_a of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n as_o be_v that_o which_o assimilate_v to_o he_o and_o bring_v he_o to_o the_o near_a approach_n to_o glory_n all_o the_o faculty_n and_o power_n of_o his_o soul_n carry_v this_o glorious_a character_n u●vely_o engrave_v on_o they_o his_o body_n also_o have_v somewhat_o of_o the_o same_o image_n stamp_v on_o it_o though_o not_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o figure_n and_o shape_n or_o natural_a u●e_v but_o as_o a_o essell_a part_n of_o his_o nature_n it_o be_v interest_v therein_o by_o a_o participate_v on_o of_o original_a righteousness_n for_o it_o be_v man_n person_n that_o be_v make_v holy_a though_o his_o soul_n be_v the_o first_o proper_a subject_n of_o that_o concreated_n habit_n and_o principle_n of_o holiness_n yet_o his_o body_n as_o i_o say_v as_o a_o essential_a part_n of_o his_o nature_n do_v participate_v thereof_o by_o a_o peculiar_a communication_n of_o that_o holiness_n to_o 〈◊〉_d as_o far_a as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v influential_a on_o moral_a operation_n and_o hereby_o be_v the_o part_n and_o member_n of_o his_o body_n in_o that_o state_n of_o innocency_n and_o integrity_n make_v instrument_n and_o servant_n unto_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n his_o understanding_n be_v a_o lamp_n of_o clear_a and_o pure_a light_n without_o any_o the_o least_o measure_n or_o mixture_n of_o culpable_a darkness_n or_o ignorance_n it_o be_v able_a clear_o and_o distinct_o to_o represent_v all_o object_n competent_a for_o he_o to_o know_v with_o wonderful_a readiness_n and_o facility_n his_o will_n be_v to_o say_v so_o straight_o as_o a_o rush_n without_o any_o the_o least_o sinful_a crook_n o●_n sinister_a bias_n incline_v only_o and_o perfect_o to_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o altogether_o averse_a from_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v evil_a there_o be_v a_o thorough_a agreement_n betwixt_o his_o will_n and_o the_o will_n of_o god_n so_o that_o he_o will_v wh●_n he_o will_v and_o ●illed_v what_o he_o ●illed_v all_o his_o affection_n move_v only_o and_o constant_o towards_o right_n and_o command_v object_n and_o that_o with_o perfection_n of_o regularity_n in_o all_o their_o motion_n his_o memory_n be_v of_o strong_a retention_n neither_o know_v he_o while_o he_o remain_v such_o what_o it_o be_v ●o_o forget_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v suitable_a and_o incumbent_a for_o he_o to_o remember_v his_o conscience_n be_v in_o excellent_a case_n ●o_o reflect_v and_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o any_o challenge_n reproof_n or_o 〈◊〉_d it_o do_v only_o commend_v and_o applaud_v in_o a_o word_n it_o do_v most_o faithful_o and_o exact_o act_v the_o part_n of_o god_n deputy_n follow_v his_o order_n punctual_o and_o precise_o and_o so_o be_v keep_v in_o a_o indisturbed_a calm_n and_o perfect_o serene_a tranquillity_n the_o member_n of_o his_o body_n be_v servant_n only_o to_o righteousness_n and_o with_o holy_a alacrity_n sub●erued_v the_o soul_n in_o all_o its_o operation_n but_o ah_o the_o enter_v in_o of_o curse_a sin_n make_v a_o sad_a sorrowful_a and_o stupendous_a catastrophe_n set_v o●_n fire_n as_o it_o be_v the_o whole_a co●e_n of_o nature_n and_o put_v its_o very_a foundation_n some_o way_n out_o of_o course_n and_o deplorable_o deface_v the_o curious_a stately_a magnificent_a beautiful_a and_o glorious_a fabric_n of_o this_o little_a 〈◊〉_d man_n quite_o vitiate_v and_o corrupt_v all_o the_o faculty_n power_n and_o part_n
wealth_n because_o the_o law_n be_v the_o public_a conscience_n which_o ●eems_v to_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o if_o no●_n point_v blank_a contradictory_n unto_o what_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o rom._n 14._o v._n 5_o let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n or_o conscience_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o warrantablenesse_n of_o what_o he_o do_v and_o to_o what_o he_o assert_n v_o 23._o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v in_o faith_n or_o from_o this_o full_a persuasion_n of_o its_o warrantableness_n be_v sin_n he_o do_v not_o sure_o write_v this_o to_o christian_n ●n_n outopia_n or_o in_o the_o fancied_a new_a world_n in_o the_o moon_n ●ut_v to_o those_o who_o be_v realy_a present_a memoer_n of_o the_o roman_a commonwealth_n or_o subject_n of_o that_o impire_n neither_o can_v it_o with_o any_o show_n of_o reason_n be_v suppose_v especial_o by_o he_o who_o in_o the_o strain_n of_o his_o book_n as_o to_o this_o matter_n make_v very_o little_a or_o rather_o no_o difference_n at_o all_o betwixt_o a_o heathen_a and_o christian_a magistrate_n for_o whether_o the_o magistrate_n be_v pagan_a mahometan_n jewish_a christian_n popish_a or_o p●otestant_n heretical_a or_o orthodox_n seem_v to_o ●e_v all_o on●_n to_o he_o and_o his_o follower_n in_o this_o debate_n that_o if_o the_o roman_a emperor_n have_v be_v christian_a he_o will_v have_v write_v otherways_o or_o that_o his_o become_v such_o will_v enervat_fw-la yea_o quite_o evacuat_a the_o strength_n and_o obligation_n of_o what_o he_o writ_n for_o ●e_n deliver_v it_o as_o a_o eternal_a and_o un-alterable_a verity_n rule_v who_o will_v and_o be_v the_o civil_a law_n what_o they_o may_v be_v and_o while_o in_o the_o 13._o chapter_n of_o that_o same_o epistle_n he_o tell_v christian_n v_o 5._o that_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n he_o seem_v very_o clear_o to_o distinguish_v betwixt_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o the_o civil_a power_n which_o mr._n hobbs_n call_v the_o public_a conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n of_o private_a christian_a subject_n and_o to_o pres●e_v upon_o they_o subjection_n to_o the_o high_a power_n for_o their_o own_o conscience_n sake_n and_o so_o to_o leave_v to_o they_o some_o exercise_n and_o judgement_n of_o that_o their_o conscience_n concern_v the_o matter_n of_o their_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n otherways_o the_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n can_v not_o well_o be_v say_v to_o be_v for_o conscience_n sake_n or_o out_o of_o conscience_n for_o he_o raight_o short_o have_v say_v obey_v the_o dictate_v of_o the_o public_a conscience_n a●_n the_o law_n of_o the_o superior_a power_n there_o be_v no_o place_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o private_a subject_n in_o the_o matter_n there_o be_v one_o divine_a such_o as_o he_o be_v who_o in_o his_o ecclesiastic_a polity_n more_o late_o deliver_v the_o same_o doctrine_n wherein_o he_o not_o only_o plain_o hobbize_v but_o also_o palpable_o play_v the_o plagi●y_n borrow_v not_o to_o say_v steal_v much_o of_o what_o he_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n through_o his_o book_n from_o mr_n hobbs_n though_o in_o some_o few_o thing_n he_o oppo●eth_v he_o and_o deliver_v his_o sentiment_n in_o a_o fine_a dress_n of_o language_n it_o may_v be_v that_o none_o may_v think_v that_o he_o be_v behold_v to_o the_o other_o for_o that_o which_o he_o will_v surprise_v the_o world_n with_o as_o his_o own_o new_a and_o profound_o witty_a invention_n vain_o as_o it_o be_v cry_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d let_v they_o for_o i_o share_n betwixt_o they_o this_o glory_v in_o their_o own_o shame_n that_o shall_v not_o be_v roll_v away_o he_o say_v that_o in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o divine_a worship_n subject_n be_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o authority_n and_o the_o public_a conscience_n and_o that_o in_o these_o matter_n private_a man_n have_v not_o power_n over_o their_o own_o action_n nor_o be_v to_o be_v direct_v by_o their_o own_o judgement_n but_o by_o the_o command_n ànd_v determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n only_o with_o these_o sorry_a restriction_n if_o the_o thing_n command_v do_v not_o either_o countenance_n vice_n or_o disgrace_v the_o deity_n or_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o absolute_o and_o essential_o evil_a who_o nature_n no_o case_n can_v alter_v no_o circumstance_n can_v extenuat_fw-la and_o no_o end_n can_v sanctify_v mr._n hobbs_n have_v only_o this_o limitation_n if_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o against_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n in_o effect_n both_o come_v near_o to_o the_o same_o if_o not_o to_o the_o very_a same_o amount_v and_o by_o both_o a_o obligation_n be_v plead_v to_o lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o private_a christian_a subject_n to_o give_v up_o themselves_o to_o the_o conduct_n and_o regulation_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o commonwealth_n as_o to_o many_o at_o least_o of_o the_o positive_a command_n of_o god_n do_v contrary_a to_o which_o will_v not_o fall_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o these_o very_a narrow_a limitation_n which_o either_o suppose_v without_o any_o warrant_n or_o proof_n that_o the_o public_a conscience_n be_v always_o infallible_a as_o to_o these_o and_o it_o be_v worthy_a notice_v what_o the_o learned_a monsieur_fw-fr claude_n have_v to_o this_o purpose_n in_o his_o de●ence_n of_o the_o reformation_n where_o he_o say_v in_o effect_n a_o absolute_a obedience_n and_o entire_a resign_v of_o one_o self_n to_o the_o conduct_n of_o ●nother_n in_o these_o matter_n that_o regard_v the_o faith_n and_o the_o conscience_n be_v a_o duty_n that_o we_o can_v lawful_o tender_a to_o none_o but_o to_o god_n who_o be_v the_o first_o truth_n the_o first_o principle_n of_o all_o justice_n to_o which_o none_o can_v pretend_v without_o usurp_v the_o just_a right_n of_o god_n as_o be_v also_o what_o say_v amesius_n page_n 6._o of_o his_o case_n that_o the_o conscience_n be_v immediate_o subject_a to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o will_n and_o can_v subject_v itself_o to_o any_o creature_n without_o idolatry_n or_o it_o be_v the_o short_a cut_n and_o compendious_a way_n to_o debauch_v man_n conscience_n and_o to_o drive_v all_o conscience_n out_o of_o the_o world_n be_v obvious_o liable_a to_o these_o follow_v beside_o other_o great_a and_o gross_a absurdity_n 1._o that_o private_a christian_a subject_n be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o trouble_v themselves_o or_o to_o be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o search_v the_o scripture_n in_o order_n to_o the_o information_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o bring_v themselves_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o their_o mind_n or_o conscience_n which_o they_o be_v express_o command_v to_o do_v john_n 5._o 39_o and_o rom._n 14._o 5._o of_o the_o warrantableness_n of_o what_o they_o do_v or_o be_v enjoin_v to_o do_v in_o religion_n and_o in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o against_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n which_o may_v be_v easy_o discern_v for_o say_v mr._n hobbs_n it_o be_v bear_v with_o every_o man_n and_o engrave_v on_o every_o man_n heart_n he_o be_v in_o all_o such_o thing_n to_o acquiesce_v without_o debate_n or_o demure_a in_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n and_o if_o he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n inform_v the_o more_o he_o do_v to_o he_o but_o put_v his_o own_o conscience_n the_o more_o upon_o the_o rack_n and_o to_o the_o torture_n if_o he_o must_v notwithstanding_o the_o clear_a information_n and_o best_a ground_a persuasion_n of_o his_o own_o judgement_n and_o conscience_n stand_v to_o and_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o resolve_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n as_o he_o must_v do_v according_a to_o this_o doctrine_n if_o he_o sin_v not_o as_o have_v not_o hitherto_o be_v doubt_v by_o any_o man_n of_o conscience_n in_o counteracting_a his_o own_o light_n and_o well-informed_n conscience_n at_o lea●_n he_o can_v but_o be_v more_o disquert_v that_o he_o be_v according_a to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n at_o so_o much_o pain_n in_o the_o ●utit_fw-la of_o seek_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n so_o well_o inform_v which_o god_n never_o make_v a_o just_a ground_n of_o disquiet_n to_o the_o mind_n of_o his_o people_n and_o his_o acquiescence_n in_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n must_v be_v as_o to_o many_o or_o most_o if_o not_o all_o divine_a positives_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n for_o say_v mr._n hobbs_n page_n 249._o they_o to_o who_o god_n have_v not_o speak_v immediate_o be_v to_o receive_v command_n from_o the_o sovereign_n and_o consequent_o in_o every_o commonwealth_n they_o who_o have_v no_o supernatural_a revelation_n to_o the_o contrary_a aught_o to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o their_o own_o sovereign_n in_o the_o external_a act_n and_o
trouble_v himself_o little_a with_o any_o devotion_n arise_v from_o it_o 3_o that_o there_o be_v no_o distinction_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n but_o by_o the_o civil_a law_n which_o be_v unto_o he_o the_o measure_n thereof_o though_o this_o distinction_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n be_v deep_o and_o indeleble_o engrave_v on_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o man_n as_o a_o native_a and_o necessary_a result_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o be_v of_o god_n as_o the_o supreme_a rectitude_n 4_o that_o there_o be_v no_o ultramundan_a or_o eternal_a reward_n or_o punishment_n nor_o any_o beyond_o or_o beside_o these_o that_o be_v bestow_v or_o inflict_v by_o the_o civil_a power_n in_o this_o present_a life_n though_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n throughout_o all_o age_n experience_n have_v give_v in_o full_a demonstrative_a &_o undeniable_a evidence_n that_o man_n have_v be_v mighty_o impel_v and_o encourage_v to_o do_v good_a by_o the_o hope_n of_o future_a eternal_a reward_n and_o proportionable_o restrain_v pull_v back_o and_o deter_v from_o do_v evil_a by_o the_o fear_n of_o future_a and_o eternal_a punishment_n if_o i_o say_v we_o once_o suppose_v these_o thing_n we_o quite_o ruin_v and_o r●ze_v the_o great_a foundation_n not_o only_a of_o reveal_v and_o supernatural_a but_o also_o of_o natural_a religion_n without_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o government_n among_o man_n can_v have_v any_o sure_a or_o firm_a basis_n to_o rest_v on_o but_o must_v needs_o according_a to_o the_o prevalency_n of_o their_o selfinterests_n cromble_o into_o piece_n and_o end_n in_o anarchy_n and_o confusion_n it_o be_v not_o altogether_o unworthy_a of_o remark_n here_o that_o hobbs_n run_v quite_o cross_a to_o the_o dictate_v of_o fame_a matchiavel_n that_o prodigy_n of_o profound_a policy_n though_o but_o a_o very_a coarse_a divine_a who_o labour_v much_o in_o his_o prince_n to_o persuade_v sovereign_a civil_a power_n of_o the_o necessity_n and_o advantage_n for_o the_o supportance_n of_o government_n of_o dissemble_v and_o pretend_v at_o least_o a_o great_a regard_n and_o veneration_n to_o religion_n in_o comparison_n of_o who_o the_o other_o be_v but_o a_o impolitic_a puny_a and_o a_o far_o worse_a divine_a even_o if_o it_o involve_v not_o a_o repugnancy_n a_o diabolick_a one_o five_o we_o will_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o supine_o and_o careless_o neglect_v and_o slight_a the_o check_n challenge_n rebuke_n and_o accusation_n of_o our_o conscience_n in_o lesser_a thing_n or_o in_o matter_n of_o comparative_o small_a moment_n wherein_o yet_o conscience_n have_v a_o concern_v as_o it_o have_v in_o all_o our_o moral_a action_n neither_o be_v many_o even_o of_o our_o natural_a action_n as_o circumstantiate_v quite_o exclude_v from_o its_o concern_n for_o that_o insensible_o weaken_v the_o voice_n check_n and_o rebuke_n of_o conscience_n in_o more_o momentuous_a matter_n and_o may_v pre-dispose_a and_o prepare_v to_o trifle_v with_o it_o in_o these_o too_o and_o may_v provoke_v god_n who_o deputy_n conscience_n be_v to_o enj●n_v it_o silence_n and_o to_o suffer_v the_o man_n to_o go_v on_o secure_o in_o sin_n without_o check_n or_o challenge_v while_o yet_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o secret_o command_v it_o to_o write_v up_o and_o keep_v a_o record_n of_o all_o these_o item_n against_o he_o and_o in_o due_a time_n to_o set_v they_o all_o in_o order_n to_o marshal_v as_o it_o be_v and_o draw_v they_o up_o in_o rank_n and_o file_v before_o he_o in_o a_o terrible_a manner_n and_o to_o give_v he_o at_o once_o a_o most_o furious_a charge_n challenge_n and_o accusation_n of_o conscience_n that_o have_v be_v smother_v for_o the_o time_n and_o slight_v after_o lie_v long_o silent_a have_v in_o some_o notable_a strait_n and_o difficulty_n arisen_a and_o get_v up_o upon_o man_n many_o year_n thereafter_o as_o these_o of_o josephs_n brethren_n do_v on_o they_o full_a twenty_o year_n at_o least_o after_o their_o pitielesse_a cruel_a un-natural_a inhuman_a and_o barbarous_a usage_n of_o their_o poor_a innocent_a young_a brother_n a_o secure_a silent_a and_o none-challenging_a ill_a conscience_n be_v among_o the_o worst_a of_o ill_a conscience_n and_o in_o some_o respect_n worse_o than_o a_o turbulent_a stormy_a and_o roar_a ill_a conscience_n if_o it_o come_v not_o to_o the_o height_n of_o despair_n because_o dispose_v the_o man_n athiestical_o to_o think_v that_o because_o god_n by_o himself_o and_o his_o deputy_n the_o conscience_n keep_v silence_n he_o be_v therefore_o like_a unto_o the_o man_n himself_o and_o that_o neither_o he_o nor_o his_o deputy_n will_v ever_o speak_v again_o nor_o reprove_v for_o those_o thing_n but_o that_o he_o have_v quite_o forget_v they_o all_o and_o will_v not_o any_o more_o call_v to_o a_o reckon_n for_o they_o o_o that_o such_o as_o forget_v god_n and_o s●ight_v his_o challenge_n and_o reproof_n by_o their_o own_o conscience_n will_v consider_v this_o lest_o he_o tear_v they_o in_o piece_n when_o there_o will_v be_v none_o to_o deliver_v it_o may_v also_o provoke_v he_o to_o speak_v that_o very_o angry_a and_o terrible_a word_n hos._n 4._o v._n 17._o more_o terrible_a some_o way_n than_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v famine_n fire_n sword_z pestilence_n and_o wild_a beast_n fail_v on_o the_o man_n he_o be_v join_v to_o his_o idol_n and_o so_o strait_o join_v that_o he_o will_v listen_v to_o no_o challenge_n of_o his_o conscience_n check_v he_o for_o maintain_v the_o conjunction_n nor_o to_o any_o suggestion_n of_o it_o persuade_v he_o to_o divorce_v from_o they_o or_o to_o un●le_a any_o of_o the_o knot_n of_o that_o curse_a conjunction_n let_v he_o alone_o let_v he_o sin_v on_o and_o by_o sin_v treasure_n up_o to_o himself_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n and_o revelation_n of_o the_o righteous_a judgement_n of_o god_n beside_o that_o such_o a_o silent_a sleep_v and_o stupefy_v conscience_n through_o often_o trade_v challenge_n under_o foot_n will_v at_o last_o waken_v and_o flee_v in_o the_o ungodly_a man_n face_n and_o as_o a_o fierce_a mastive_a dog_n or_o raven_a wolf_n take_v he_o by_o the_o throat_n and_o become_v his_o burrio_fw-la and_o tormenter_n and_o perhaps_o for_o evit_v the_o trouble_n and_o terror_n of_o it_o put_v he_o though_o a_o poor_a and_o pitiful_a desperate_a and_o distract_a shift_n to_o be_v his_o own_o murderer_n and_o executioner_n or_o if_o it_o shall_v keep_v silence_n to_o death_n and_o even_o then_o not_o disqulet_n he_o yet_o it_o will_v in_o hell_n as_o a_o never_o die_a worm_n gnaw_v the_o heart_n of_o he_o and_o as_o a_o ravenous_a vulture_n tear_v out_o as_o it_o be_v his_o very_a bowel_n and_o by_o its_o yell_a and_o roar_v by_o its_o bite_n and_o rent_v the_o very_a c●ul_n of_o his_o heart_n make_v he_o a_o hell_n to_o himself_o in_o hell_n and_o so_o make_v a_o double_a hell_n to_o he_o alas_o even_o the_o godly_a themselves_o may_v by_o somewhat_o of_o this_o guilt_n raise_v great_a storm_n of_o trouble_n and_o disquiet_v in_o their_o own_o conscience_n sixthly_a we_o will_v by_o all_o mean_n guard_v against_o counteracting_a and_o run_a cross_n to_o the_o plain_a and_o downright_o dictate_v of_o our_o conscience_n especial_o when_o clear_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n for_o this_o be_v a_o high_a dare_a malepert_a affront_a desplse_v and_o disow_v of_o god_n deputy_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o violent_a put_v he_o off_o the_o bench_n the_o language_n whereof_o be_v that_o if_o god_n himself_o the_o lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v or_o can_v possible_o be_v as_o much_o in_o the_o man_n reverence_n as_o he_o suppose_v his_o conscience_n to_o be_v he_o will_v deal_v with_o he_o at_o the_o same_o rate_n and_o serve_v he_o with_o the_o same_o measure_n this_o bring_v on_o dedolency_n stupidity_n and_o caurerize_n of_o conscience_n make_v stout_a against_o god_n hold_v and_o impudent_a in_o sin_v it_o make_v the_o man_n heart_n hard_o than_o a_o adamant_n it_o make_v he_o to_o be_v of_o a_o brazen_a brow_n and_o to_o put_v on_o a_o whore_n forehead_n so_o that_o he_o will_v not_o at_o all_o think_v shame_n nay_o not_o so_o much_o as_o blush_v but_o confident_o wipe_v his_o mouth_n and_o say_v what_o have_v i_o do_v and_o very_o ready_o it_o bring_v on_o all_o the_o dreadful_a effect_n mention_v in_o the_o forego_n caution_n and_o fill_v the_o world_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n with_o prodigle_v of_o profanitie_n and_o monster_n of_o mischief_n and_o even_o in_o a_o manner_n bringsup_n hell_n upon_o earth_n when_o it_o become_v habitual_a and_o when_o god_n judicial_o give_v man_n up_o to_o their_o own_o heart_n luft_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o counsel_n without_o all_o regard_n to_o what_o he_o say_v to_o they_o by_o his_o word_n without_o they_o and_o by_o their_o own_o conscience_n within_o they_o seven_o
all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v always_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n yea_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o duty_n but_o we_o may_v look_v on_o it_o as_o a_o excellent_a mean_n for_o advance_v of_o holiness_n the_o six_o be_v where_o man_n honest_o aim_v to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n always_o void_a of_o offence_n it_o will_v be_v a_o exercise_v and_o uptake_v thing_n the_o seven_o be_v where_o this_o exercise_n be_v neglect_v and_o not_o serious_o carry_v on_o the_o conscience_n be_v leave_v to_o stumble_v at_o and_o to_o abound_v with_o offence_n as_o for_o the_o first_o that_o there_o be_v many_o kind_n of_o offence_n which_o people_n be_v subject_a to_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n uncontroverted_a by_o all_o and_o we_o need_v say_v little_a of_o it_o only_o first_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o first_o table_n which_o be_v offence_n towards_o god_n be_v immediate_o against_o he_o and_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o second_o table_n which_o although_o they_o be_v against_o god_n yet_o immediate_o they_o touch_v and_o reflect_v on_o man_n 2._o there_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n that_o be_v secret_a which_o god_n only_o be_v witness_n to_o and_o there_o be_v open_a sin_n which_o scandalize_v man_n paul_n endeavour_v to_o eschew_v all_o these_o for_o all_o be_v ●ins_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o wound_a of_o the_o conscience_n the_o second_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n within_o every_o man_n which_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o affect_v he_o for_o it_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o that_o follow_v and_o have_v need_v to_o be_v more_o particular_o speak_v unto_o this_o truth_n than_o contain_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o man_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o way_n and_o walk_v hence_o it_o be_v say_v to_o bear_v witness_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o it_o be_v also_o say_v to_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v rom._n 2._o 15._o it_o witness_n for_o man_n and_o excuse_n and_o comfort_v they_o when_o they_o do_v well_o and_o witness_v against_o they_o accuse_v and_o reprove_v they_o when_o they_o do_v evil_a and_o so_o be_v to_o they_o as_o a_o check_n captor_n or_o censor_n the_o apostle_n aim_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n suppon_n that_o he_o and_o every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n and_o that_o it_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o thing_n and_o will_v take_v offence_n if_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o thwart_v with_o it_o we_o shall_v not_o in_o this_o place_n stand_v to_o debate_v what_o conscience_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o power_n or_o a_o faculty_n a_o habit_n or_o a_o act_n which_o as_o it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o for_o your_o edification_n so_o it_o will_v transcend_v the_o reach_n of_o many_o of_o you_o only_o in_o the_o general_n we_o may_v call_v it_o a_o power_n wherewith_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o his_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n 2._o we_o say_v ●ts_n according_o affect_v with_o every_o thing_n when_o the_o man_n do_v right_v it_o be_v please_v and_o when_o he_o do_v wrong_v its_o offend_a and_o wound_v as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o 10_o 11._o so_o 1_o sam._n 24._o 5._o it_o be_v say_v david_n heart_n smite_v he_o and_o prov._n 18._o 14._o this_o be_v call_v a_o wound_a spirit_n 3._o as_o it_o be_v affect_v so_o it_o affect_v the_o person_n when_o a_o man_n have_v do_v well_o it_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v evil_a and_o wrong_v it_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v he_o in_o which_o respect_n conscience_n be_v call_v a_o judge_n pronounce_v sentence_n by_o absolve_v or_o condemn_v man_n scripture_n and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o people_n and_o time_n clear_a and_o prove_v this_o 1._o the_o scripture_n say_v of_o heathen_n rom._n 2._o 15._o that_o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o excuse_v one_o another_o it_o hold_v out_o this_o to_o have_v be_v in_o adam_n who_o immediate_o after_o the_o fall_n gen._n 3._o 10._o say_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n and_o be_v afraid_a terror_n seize_v on_o he_o it_o mention_n this_o also_o to_o have_v be_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n who_o gen._n 42._o 21._o say_v we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n and_o in_o david_n in_o that_o forecited_a 1_o of_o sam._n 24._o 5._o where_o its_o say_a that_o his_o heart_n smite_v he_o it_o be_v clear_o also_o suppose_v 1_o john_n 3._o 19_o 20_o 21._o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n where_o we_o will_v take_v notice_n that_o what_o be_v here_o and_o sometime_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n call_v the_o heart_n be_v in_o the_o text_n and_o elsewhere_a call_v the_o conscience_n which_o suppose_v this_o to_o be_v in_o every_o man_n it_o be_v further_a clear_a from_o the_o daily_a experience_n of_o all_o in_o all_o time_n for_o sometime_o it_o be_v pouse_v to_o duty_n sometime_o it_o be_v challenge_v for_o the_o omission_n of_o duty_n or_o for_o commission_n of_o the_o contrary_a evil_n sometime_o it_o be_v speak_v peace_n sometime_o it_o be_v mar_v peace_n and_o denounce_v war_n as_o it_o be_v all_o which_o plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n so_o herod_n when_o he_o hear_v of_o christ_n miracle_n his_o conscience_n put_v he_o in_o mind_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n who_o he_o have_v behead_v and_o disquiet_v he_o with_o fear_n that_o john_n may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o the_o dead_a something_o of_o it_o appear_v likewise_o in_o achab_n when_o it_o put_v he_o to_o put_v on_o sackcloth_n all_o which_o i_o say_v plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n and_o beside_o full_a scripture-proof_n there_o be_v none_o but_o if_o they_o observe_v they_o will_v find_v their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n either_o accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v they_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a first_o to_o what_o this_o conscience_n be_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a satisfy_o to_o explain_v it_o 2._o to_o the_o use_n and_o end_n of_o it_o and_o why_o god_n have_v place_v this_o in_o man_n where_o we_o shall_v show_v the_o several_a sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v in_o man_n good_a and_o evil_n for_o the_o first_o to_o wit_n what_o conscience_n be_v we_o may_v for_o come_v at_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o consider_v the_o name_n conscience_n which_o signify_v a_o co-knowledge_n or_o a_o knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o our_o knowledge_n which_o we_o may_v consider_v first_o as_o look_v to_o god_n knowledge_n go_v alongst_o with_o we_o and_o we_o go_n alongst_o with_o he_o and_o thus_o it_o imply_v as_o his_o knowledge_n of_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o way_n so_o our_o knowledge_n together_o with_o his_o of_o these_o or_o our_o take_a notice_n of_o they_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o knowledge_n 2._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o reflex-knowledge_n join_v with_o a_o direct_a knowledge_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n have_v a_o direct_a knowledge_n of_o prayer_n as_o his_o duty_n and_o a_o reflex_n knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o the_o practice_n or_o exercise_v of_o the_o duty_n whereby_o he_o see_v and_o discern_v himself_o either_o to_o behave_v suitable_o in_o it_o or_o to_o be_v faulty_a in_o this_o respect_n conscience_n be_v a_o practical_a knowledge_n take_v notice_n by_o a_o reflex_n act_n of_o a_o man_n way_n 3._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o comprehend_v a_o knowledge_n of_o god_n law_n and_o then_o it_o signify_v a_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o compare_v with_o the_o law_n it_o have_v knowledge_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o so_o of_o what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o withal_o it_o have_v in_o it_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o and_o of_o our_o conformity_n or_o disconformity_n to_o the_o rule_n conscience_n then_o in_o this_o respect_n be_v a_o man_n knowledge_n of_o god_n will_v and_o of_o himself_o as_o compare_v with_o it_o 4._o we_o may_v consider_v this_o co_z knowledge_n as_o it_o suppose_v beside_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o the_o knowledge_n of_o something_o take_v notice_n of_o we_o or_o of_o something_o depute_v in_o we_o by_o god_n to_o keep_v a_o record_n
of_o all_o our_o carriage_n and_o particular_a action_n and_o so_o it_o be_v look_v on_o as_o some_o way_n different_a from_o we_o hence_o it_o be_v call_v a_o testimony_n the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n hence_o also_o a_o man_n will_v appeal_v to_o his_o conscience_n and_o it_o do_v when_o in_o any_o measure_n in_o exercise_n impartial_o and_o incorrupt_o bear_v witness_n and_o a_o man●_n conscience_n will_v speak_v against_o he_o as_o if_o it_o be_v at_o all_o no_o part_n of_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o command_v it_o silence_n however_o than_o we_o call_v it_o it_o be_v a_o power_n depute_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n by_o god_n take_v order_n from_o he_o and_o f●om_n his_o reveal_v will_n and_o word_n and_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v the_o man_n as_o he_o direct_v it_o be_v call_v prov._n 20._o 27._o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v above_o man_n in_o its_o sentence_n and_o accuse_v and_o will_v not_o be_v command_v by_o he_o to_o clear_v it_o yet_o a_o little_a further_o there_o be_v in_o conscience_n these_o three_o thing_n 1._o there_o be_v the_o lay_v down_o of_o some_o ground_n such_o as_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o which_o it_o put_v a_o man_n to_o trial_n which_o be_v that_o we_o call_v the_o major_a or_o first_o proposition_n of_o the_o argument_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o judas_n when_o his_o conscience_n waken_v it_o lay_v down_o this_o ground_n which_o be_v do_v by_o light_n he_o that_o be_v guilty_a of_o innoceat_a blood_n have_v break_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o may_v expect_v horrible_a wrath._n 2._o there_o be_v a_o assume_v which_o be_v the_o minor_a or_o second_o proposition_n of_o the_o argument_n or_o the_o assumption_n if_o the_o man_n be_v guilty_a of_o such_o and_o such_o sin_n as_o thus_o but_o i_o judas_n be_o guilty_a of_o innocent_a blood_n and_o have_v break_v the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o this_o the_o conscience_n by_o its_o testimony_n confirm_v then_o 3._o it_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n and_o speak_v forth_o the_o man_n lot_n and_o give_v out_o his_o doom_n what_o he_o may_v expect_v as_o in_o the_o present_a instance_n thou_o judas_n may_v expect_v horrible_a wrath_n from_o god_n this_o conscience_n apply_v and_o lay_v home_o unto_o he_o every_o conscience_n have_v these_o three_o in_o less_o or_o more_o the_o way_n of_o conscience_n its_o reason_v and_o conclude_v be_v different_a from_o a_o man_n knowledge_n and_o light_n for_o a_o man_n may_v see_v sin_n and_o not_o be_v touch_v with_o it_o it_o d●ffers_v likewise_o from_o the_o memory_n for_o a_o man_n may_v remember_v that_o which_o affect_v he_o not_o it_o differ_v from_o self-examination_n for_o that_o if_o it_o be_v mee●_n examination_n bring_v a_o man_n only_o to_o know_v that_o he_o lie_v under_o such_o and_o such_o sin_n so_o and_o so_o circumstantiate_v though_o it_o make_v use_v of_o all_o these_o three_o as_o its_o instrument_n yet_o it_o go●_n beyond_o they_o and_o have_v a_o prick_a sting_a pain_n power_n it_o accuse_v sentence_v smite_v and_o sharp_o censure_v whereas_o before_o conscience_n act_v its_o part_n a_o man_n may_v look_v often_o on_o his_o sin_n and_o yet_o but_o overlook_v they_o and_o as_o to_o thing_n that_o be_v right_a conscience_n do_v not_o only_o or_o bare_o look_v on_o they_o but_o it_o have_v a_o approve_v testimony_n which_o prove_v comfortable_a there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o this_o in_o every_o one_o of_o you_o which_o will_v let_v nothing_o pass_v but_o more_o or_o less_o will_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o either_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v you_o for_o it_o as_o to_o the_o 2d_o the_o use_n of_o conscience_n or_o the_o end_n wherefore_o god_n have_v put_v this_o in_o man_n and_o woman_n which_o i_o shall_v draw_v to_o three_o head_n that_o may_v be_v as_o so_o many_o reason_n of_o the_o doctrine_n 1._o he_o have_v do_v so_o for_o this_o end_n that_o by_o it_o he_o may_v keep_v up_o his_o sovereignty_n power_n and_o terribleness_n and_o keep_v man_n under_o the_o awe_n and_o dread_v thereof_o for_o this_o which_o be_v call_v conscience_n will_v make_v the_o stole_v to_o tremble_v it_o will_v write_v and_o impress_n so_o u●vely_o and_o deep_o these_o great_a truth_n that_o none_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o blot_v they_o out_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n that_o there_o be_v a_o judgement_n to_o come_v and_o that_o all_o will_v be_v call_v to_o reckon_a which_o none_o will_v get_v eschew_v it_o will_v fix_v and_o fasten_v such_o self-convictions_a on_o sinner_n as_o will_v make_v they_o avoidable_o condemn_v themselves_o so_o john_n 8._o 9_o 10._o when_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n bring_v a_o woman_n take_v in_o adultery_n to_o christ_n intend_v thereby_o to_o trap_n and_o ensnare_v he_o he_o say_v he_o that_o be_v without_o sin_n among_o you_o let_v he_o cast_v the_o first_o stone_n at_o she_o whereby_o their_o conscience_n be_v make_v to_o bear_v such_o faithful_a testimony_n against_o they_o and_o to_o carry_v such_o terror_n with_o it_o that_o they_o be_v all_o force_a to_o steal_v away_o one_o by_o one_o and_o yet_o they_o need_v not_o to_o have_v think_v shame_n on_o account_n of_o any_o thing_n we_o hear_v man_n can_v have_v challenge_v they_o for_o but_o conscience_n have_v such_o a_o awe_n and_o force_v on_o they_o that_o there_o be_v no_o resist_n of_o it_o scripture-history_n do_v also_o tell_v we_o that_o such_o be_v the_o power_n and_o force_v of_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v awake_v that_o it_o will_v make_v the_o knee_n to_o smite_v one_o against_o another_o even_o of_o a_o belshazzar_n and_o will_v make_v a_o governor_n fellix_fw-la to_o tremble_v a_o second_o end_n be_v that_o god_n may_v hold_v man_n and_o woman_n at_o their_o duty_n in_o go_v about_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v command_v and_o prescribe_v by_o he_o and_o in_o abstain_v from_o forbid_a sin_n for_o if_o there_o be_v not_o some_o awe_n from_o conscience_n what_o extravagancy_n will_v they_o loose_o run_v into_o who_o have_v no_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o word_n and_o thus_o conscience_n have_v a_o force_n to_o put_v man_n to_o duty_n in_o these_o respect_n 1_o it_o discover_v duty_n and_o hold_v it_o before_o they_o when_o the_o lord_n have_v command_v to_o pray_v read_v the_o scripture_n to_o keep_v the_o church_n and_o wait_v upon_o ordinance_n dispense_v there_o to_o keep_v holy_a the_o sabbath_n day_n etc._n etc._n conscience_n put_v a_o man_n in_o mind_n of_o these_o and_o when_o he_o neglect_v any_o one_o of_o they_o will_v say_v to_o he_o thou_o shall_v be_v in_o another_o place_n or_o about_o other_o work_n so_o when_o david_n heart_n smite_v he_o it_o help_v he_o to_o see_v his_o duty_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o obligation_n to_o duty_n lay_v on_o by_o conscience_n so_o that_o the_o man_n can_v shift_v it_o he_o can_v he_o dare_v not_o say_v such_o a_o thing_n be_v not_o my_o duty_n for_o conscience_n bear_v it_o in_o and_o lay_v it_o on_o he_o convince_o 3._o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o conscience_n to_o pouss_n to_o duty_n from_o this_o come_v that_o restlessness_n and_o disquiet_n that_o be_v often_o in_o man_n and_o woman_n when_o duty_n be_v omit_v that_o they_o can_v have_v no_o peace_n till_o it_o be_v go_v about_o 4._o conscience_n invit_v to_o duty_n by_o promise_a peace_n upon_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n conscience_n have_v influence_n to_o restrain_v from_o sin_n 1._o by_o discover_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v sin_n and_o though_o the_o soul_n will_v notwithstanding_o endeavour_v to_o digest_v it_o yet_o conscience_n make_v a_o challenge_n to_o go_v down_o with_o it_o 2._o by_o threaten_v the_o sinner_n when_o it_o be_v warning_n be_v neglect_v and_o not_o take_v tell_v he_o that_o he_o shall_v repent_v it_o one_o day_n and_o that_o it_o will_v make_v he_o repent_v i●_n 3._o by_o take_v away_o the_o sweetness_n of_o sin_n and_o leave_v a_o sting_n in_o place_n of_o it_o as_o when_o achab_n kill_v naboth_n it_o say_v have_v thou_o kill_v and_o also_o take_v possession_n and_o from_o this_o arise_v challenge_n and_o fear_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o threaten_a judgement_n which_o quite_o mar_v the_o comfort_n the_o man_n expect_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n in_o all_o which_o it_o keep_v a_o majestic_a and_o stately_a divine_a way_n become_v god_n deputy_n and_o bear_v witness_n for_o he_o against_o the_o sinner_n a_o 3d._a end_n be_v to_o abbreviat_v as_o it_o be_v god_n process_n in_o judge_a man_n to_o justify_v and_o clear_v he_o and_o to_o make_v way_n for_o his_o sentence_n whatever_o it_o be_v 1._o it_o conduce_v 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v to_o
the_o open_n of_o the_o book_n to_o the_o sist_z and_o put_v of_o all_o person_n in_o a_o posture_n before_o he_o to_o be_v sentence_v by_o he_o it_o do_v in_o a_o manner_n all_o so_o that_o god_n have_v little_a or_o nothing_o to_o do_v as_o it_o be_v for_o it_o discover_v to_o a_o man_n what_o be_v his_o duty_n and_o his_o sin_n 2._o it_o cit_v he_o to_o compear_v and_o answer_v for_o neglect_v such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n and_o commit_v such_o and_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o he_o can_v possible_o shift_v compearance_n 3._o when_o he_o do_v compear_v it_o give_v in_o a_o l●bell_n of_o accusation_n against_o the_o man_n and_o a_o catalogue_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n in_o thought_n word_n and_o deed_n this_o and_o this_o will_v it_o aweful_o say_v thou_o do_v at_o such_o and_o such_o a_o time_n in_o such_o and_o such_o a_o place_n aggravate_v by_o such_o and_o such_o circumstance_n 4._o it_o serve_v to_o be_v a_o witness_n yea_o in_o place_n of_o a_o thousand_o witness_n and_o there_o be_v no_o deny_v or_o shift_v of_o what_o ever_o it_o bear_v witness_v to_o all_o which_o we_o may_v see_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n gen._n 42._o 21._o who_o say_v one_o to_o another_o we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n in_o that_o we_o see_v the_o anguish_n of_o his_o soul_n when_o he_o beseech_v we_o and_o we_o will_v not_o hear_v therefore_o be_v this_o distress_n come_v upon_o we_o the_o law_n discover_v that_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n conscience_n challenge_v and_o accuse_v they_o be_v cite_v the_o accusation_n be_v give_v in_o and_o prove_v this_o and_o this_o they_o do_v and_o do_v it_o with_o all_o these_o circumstance_n not_o a_o pitiful_a word_n that_o joseph_n speak_v nor_o a_o tear_n that_o he_o shed_v in_o the_o anguish_n of_o his_o soul_n beseech_v they_o to_o desist_v but_o they_o remember_v it_o now_o and_o there_o be_v no_o shift_v of_o the_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n nor_o cover_v of_o it_o as_o they_o have_v do_v before_o to_o their_o age_a father_n jacob_n but_o they_o must_v needs_o now_o take_v with_o all_o and_o confess_v we_o have_v sin_v and_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n etc._n etc._n 5._o it_o pass_v sentence_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o heart_n be_v say_v to_o condemn_v when_o the_o thing_n be_v evil_a and_o to_o absolve_v or_o not_o condemn_v when_o the_o thing_n be_v good_a 1_o john_n 3_o 20_o 21._o 6._o when_o it_o have_v sentence_v and_o condemn_v it_o leave_v not_o the_o man_n so_o but_o go_v on_o and_o execute_v the_o sentence_n and_o turn_v a_o gnaw_a worm_n to_o bite_v and_o gnaw_v and_o as_o a_o executioner_n to_o buffe●_n and_o smite_v to_o damp_n and_o torment_v the_o man_n thus_o you_o may_v see_v how_o useful_a conscience_n be_v to_o help_v forward_o god_n judgement_n and_o to_o vindicat_fw-la him_z in_o his_o sentence_n and_o as_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o a_o guilty_a conscience_n so_o it_o be_v with_o a_o conscience_n absolve_v it_o will_v absolve_v when_o man_n condemn_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n here_o when_o man_n give_v in_o a_o lybel_n and_o accuse_v it_o will_v discharge_v as_o act_n 23._o 1._o man_n and_o brethren_n i_o have_v live_v in_o all_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n until_o this_o day_n and_o when_o conscience_n have_v absolve_v it_o make_v cheerful_a as_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o 1_o john_n 3._o 20._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n so_o than_o we_o see_v conscience_n have_v these_o three_o great_a use_n and_o end_n 1._o to_o keep_v people_n in_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o greatness_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o mind_n that_o they_o must_v give_v a_o account_n to_o he_o 2._o to_o hold_v they_o at_o their_o duty_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v very_o loath_a to_o contradict_v it_o 3._o if_o duty_n be_v neglect_v to_o record_v all_o their_o fault_n and_o to_o accuse_v and_o sentence_v they_o therefore_o and_o never_o to_o leave_v pursue_v they_o for_o conscience_n will_v continue_v as_o a_o worm_n in_o hell_n gnaw_v for_o ever_o and_o ever_o the_o first_o use_n serve_v to_o bear_v in_o this_o truth_n on_o you_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o profane_a and_o haughty_a of_o you_o all_o whether_o young_a or_o old_a one_o and_o other_o of_o you_o have_v a_o conscience_n that_o take_v particular_a notice_n of_o every_o thing_n in_o your_o walk_n that_o record_v all_o that_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v and_o though_o you_o take_v not_o head_n to_o it_o now_o you_o will_v one_o day_n be_v make_v to_o know_v it_o take_v it_o therefore_o for_o a_o certain_a truth_n that_o you_o have_v such_o a_o thing_n within_o you_o that_o you_o have_v a_o knowledge_n with_o your_o knowledge_n even_o a_o conscience_n that_o remember_v when_o you_o will_v forget_v the_o mind_v of_o this_o be_v useful_a 1._o to_o make_v people_n cast_v out_o with_o sin_n rather_o than_o with_o their_o conscience_n 2._o to_o make_v they_o wary_a that_o they_o take_v not_o liberty_n in_o secret_a to_o sin_n 3._o to_o make_v they_o take_v kind_o with_o reproof_n for_o sin_n remember_v therefore_o that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o one_o of_o you_o you_o will_v possible_o think_v it_o needless_a to_o press_v this_o and_o i_o wish_v it_o be_v so_o but_o we_o may_v short_o point_v at_o these_o evidence_n to_o prove_v that_o many_o on_o the_o matter_n think_v they_o have_v not_o a_o conscience_n the_o first_o be_v that_o they_o take_v so_o little_a pain_n to_o prevent_v a_o quarrel_n from_o their_o conscience_n how_o many_o omit_v balk_v and_o step_v over_o duty_n and_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n which_o they_o dare_v not_o do_v if_o they_o believe_v that_o they_o have_v a_o conscience_n 2._o the_o few_o challenge_v that_o most_o have_v under_o many_o sin_n and_o their_o live_n in_o such_o peace_n and_o security_n as_o if_o they_o have_v not_o a_o conscience_n to_o disquiet_v they_o many_o man_n and_o woman_n know_v and_o be_v as_o little_o acquaint_v with_o challenge_n and_o conviction_n and_o stand_v in_o as_o little_a awe_n of_o conscience_n as_o if_o they_o have_v none_o at_o all_o hence_o we_o use_v to_o say_v that_o such_o a_o man_n have_v not_o a_o conscience_n because_o though_o he_o have_v it_o he_o regard_v it_o not_o and_o such_o a_o m●n_z have_v a_o conscience_n because_o he_o make_v use_v of_o it_o and_o listen_v to_o what_o it_o say_v 3._o that_o people_n seek_v more_o to_o approve_v themselves_o in_o outward_a and_o see_v duty_n than_o in_o inward_a and_o secret_a one_o and_o look_v more_o after_o man_n approbation_n then_o god_n and_o lean_v more_o to_o and_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o outward_a testimony_n from_o man_n then_o to_o and_o on_o inward_a one_o from_o their_o own_o conscience_n if_o conscience_n be_v real_o believe_v to_o be_v there_o will_v be_v as_o great_a awe_n of_o god_n and_o as_o great_a loathness_n to_o sin_n in_o secret_a as_o before_o many_o witness_n but_o you_o will_v object_n and_o say_v see_v every_o one_o have_v a_o conscience_n what_o can_v be_v the_o reason_n that_o many_o care_n so_o little_a for_o conscience_n answer_v 1._o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o man_n care_v so_o little_a for_o god_n if_o they_o care_v not_o for_o the_o lord_n and_o master_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n they_o care_v so_o little_a for_o the_o deputy_n and_o servant_n shall_v we_o therefore_o think_v that_o there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n at_o all_o as_o a_o conscience_n in_o such_o no_o by_o no_o mean_n it_o will_v prove_v indeed_o that_o they_o slight_a conscience_n but_o not_o that_o they_o want_v a_o conscience_n 2._o there_o be_v in_o many_o man_n a_o contend_v with_o and_o provock_v of_o conscience_n which_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n make_v a_o silent_a conscience_n when_o the_o lord_n make_v conscience_n quick_a and_o set_v it_o on_o to_o reprove_v and_o check_v for_o sin_n and_o man_n do_v not_o listen_v to_o its_o check_n and_o reproof_n conscience_n offend_v and_o will_v not_o reprove_v conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n take_v order_n from_o he_o and_o when_o god_n will_v ●ot_n vouchsafe_v a_o word_n of_o reproof_n on_o a_o man_n neither_o will_v it_o ephraim_n be_v join_v to_o idol_n let_v he_o alone_o save_v the_o lord_n hos._n 4._o 17._o and_o from_o rom._n 1._o 20_o 21._o we_o may_v see_v the_o cause_n why_o god_n give_v up_o the_o heathen_a to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n to_o do_v thing_n that_o be_v not_o convenient_a to_o be_v their_o go_v cross_a to_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o their_o
which_o affect_v they_o as_o it_o be_v affect_v if_o their_o carriage_n be_v good_a it_o speak_v good_a to_o they_o if_o evil_a it_o speak_v evil_a to_o they_o hence_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n the_o meanwhile_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o something_o also_o be_v speak_v to_o what_o conscience_n be_v and_o what_o be_v its_o office_n we_o shall_v now_o add_v a_o three_o doctrine_n though_o it_o be_v not_o the_o three_o in_o the_o order_n that_o we_o propose_v the_o doctrine_n at_o first_o which_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v so_o to_o walk_v yea_o if_o they_o be_v tender_a they_o will_v aim_v and_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v as_o in_o nothing_o they_o may_v give_v their_o conscience_n offence_n the_o forego_v doctrine_n be_v common_a to_o all_o viz._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n but_o this_o to_o walk_v friendly_a with_o the_o conscience_n so_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v or_o wrong_v it_o be_v not_o common_a to_o all_o but_o peculiar_a to_o he_o who_o be_v a_o christian_n in_o earnest_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o preecee_a chapter_n ver_fw-la 1._o man_n and_o brethren_n i_o have_v live_v before_o god_n in_o all_o good_a conscience_n until_o this_o day_n suppose_v he_o to_o mean_v since_o his_o conversion_n and_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o heb._n 13._o 18._o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o and_o his_o pitch_v on_o this_o as_o a_o great_a ground_n of_o his_o consolation_n in_o strait_n be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o common_a thing_n but_o peculiar_a to_o the_o tender_a christian_a hence_o be_v the_o confident_a approach_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o god_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n through_o the_o psalm_n in_o hezekiah_n isa._n 38._o 3._o remember_v i_o beseech_v thou_o how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n and_o in_o job_n chap._n 27._o vers_fw-la 6._o so_o 1_o john_n 3_o 21._o belove_a if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o point_n we_o shall_v show_v first_o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o that_o a_o believer_n ought_v to_o walk_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n and_o 3._o make_v use_n of_o the_o doctrine_n for_o clear_v of_o the_o first_o we_o shall_v show_v 1._o what_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v conscience_n the_o first_o of_o these_o may_v be_v comprise_v in_o these_o three_o general_n 1._o that_o whatever_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n offen_v the_o conscience_n for_o conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n substitute_n by_o he_o and_o sustain_v his_o place_n and_o vicê_n in_o a_o manner_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o give_v sentence_n for_o he_o whatever_o offend_v and_o wrong_v god_n must_v also_o offend_v and_o wrong_v the_o conscience_n and_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v not_o always_o at_o present_a sensible_o and_o feel_o affect_v the_o conscience_n yet_o it_o make_v way_n for_o that_o and_o prove_v to_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n do_v to_o it_o in_o that_o it_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n 2._o that_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n to_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v against_o light_n and_o knowledge_n and_o though_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n according_a to_o that_o light_n be_v not_o always_o so_o vigorous_a yet_o where_o there_o be_v a_o thwar_n with_o light_n there_o be_v a_o dare_v of_o conscience_n and_o a_o contradict_v of_o it_o and_o as_o it_o be_v rem_fw-la 14_o 22._o a_o man_n then_o condemn_v himself_o in_o that_o which_o he_o allow_v and_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n against_o himself_o in_o that_o wherein_o he_o have_v light_a and_o clearness_n 3._o conscience_n be_v offend_v or_o wrong_v when_o any_o thing_n be_v adventure_v on_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o impulse_n of_o it_o as_o when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v to_o be_v do_v and_o we_o notwithstanding_o leave_v ●t_a undo_v or_o when_o it_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v ●ot_n to_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o since_o conscience_n as_o we_o say_v before_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o a_o man_n thought_n purpose_n word_n and_o way_n to_o give_v in_o a_o word_n for_o god_n when_o that_o which_o it_o say_v for_o he_o be_v slight_v it_o can_v but_o be_v offend_v and_o wrong_v second_o not_o to_o offend_v but_o to_o keep_v friendship_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n with_o the_o conscience_n suppose_v and_o take_v in_o these_o thing_n 1._o to_o have_v the_o judgement_n clear_o inform_v anent_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n for_o though_o conscience_n be_v above_o we_o yet_o it_o be_v under_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v inform_v from_o his_o word_n and_o we_o lie_v a_o stumbling-block_n before_o it_o when_o we_o endeavour_v not_o to_o have_v the_o eye_n single_a as_o the_o lord_n speak_v and_o the_o understanding_n clear_a 2._o to_o listen_v and_o lend_v the_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v and_o after_o deliberation_n to_o be_v swey_v and_o determine_v according_a to_o what_o it_o say_v in_o do_v or_o forbear_v for_o unless_o we_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n we_o know_v not_o when_o we_o please_v or_o displease_v it_o 3._o to_o ply_v and_o steer_v a_o straight_a course_n according_a to_o the_o dictate_v and_o direction_n of_o conscience_n to_o take_v order_n to_o speak_v so_o from_o it_o so_o as_o when_o conscience_n point_v at_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o evil_n to_o stand_v and_o sist_z there_o without_o dare_v to_o meddle_v with_o it_o or_o move_v towards_o it_o and_o when_o it_o hold_v forth_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v a_o duty_n straight_a way_n to_o give_v obedience_n to_o it_o herein_o main_o consist_v a_o good_a conscience_n consider_v it_o with_o respect_n to_o its_o exercise_n when_o once_o make_v good_a to_o have_v our_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o against_o we_o and_o without_o have_v ground_n to_o say_v any_o thing_n against_o we_o when_o it_o can_v challenge_v we_o and_o say_v that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o not_o or_o that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o forbear_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o go_v on_o to_o the_o do_v of_o it_o so_o that_o when_o we_o come_v before_o god_n it_o may_v have_v nothing_o to_o reprove_v or_o challenge_v we_o for_o nothing_o to_o condemn_v we_o in_o but_o as_o it_o hold_v out_o our_o duty_n to_o we_o from_o the_o word_n just_o so_o to_o endeavour_v to_o behave_v in_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o second_o thing_n propose_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o viz._n that_o a_o believer_n ought_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n these_o three_o thing_n will_v confirm_v it_o 1._o the_o very_a nature_n and_o office_n of_o his_o conscience_n if_o so_o be_v that_o conscience_n speak_v for_o god_n and_o be_v appoint_v by_o he_o as_o his_o deputy_n to_o be_v a_o remembrancer_n of_o duty_n and_o a_o restrainer_n from_o sin_n than_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o love_n to_o he_o will_v make_v a_o man_n that_o be_v tender_a walk_v according_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o conscience_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o rom._n 13._o 5._o the_o command_n that_o be_v lay_v on_o for_o god_n sake_n be_v also_o lay_v on_o for_o conscience_n sake_n wherefore_o say_v he_o you_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n that_o be_v from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n that_o put_v we_o to_o our_o duty_n and_o from_o respect_n to_o conscience_n his_o deputy_n in_o this_o respect_n the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n for_o as_o a_o man_n can_v be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o neither_o can_v he_o be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o direction_n of_o his_o conscience_n speak_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n to_o he_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o great_a advantage_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n it_o give_v much_o quietness_n and_o sweet_a peace_n in_o all_o strait_n and_o trouble_n and_o much_o confidence_n and_o holy_a boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n if_o our_o conscience_n condemn_v we_o not_o say_v
john_n then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n in_o a_o word_n whatever_o condition_n a_o man_n can_v be_v in_o it_o prove_v his_o friend_n nay_o his_o best_a friend_n a_o three_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o great_a prejudice_n that_o come_v to_o a_o man_n through_o his_o thwart_a and_o come_v in_o top_n with_o conscience_n he_o want_v that_o sweet_a inward_a peace_n that_o pass_v all_o understanding_n to_o keep_v and_o garrison_n his_o heart_n and_o mind_n whereby_o he_o be_v much_o expose_v and_o lay_v open_a god_n look_v terrible-like_a upon_o he_o and_o he_o have_v no_o access_n to_o he_o with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n when_o the_o conscience_n be_v disquiet_v trouble_v and_o as_o it_o be_v through_o other_o or_o confuse_a and_o fear_n arise_v and_o challenge_n be_v waken_v therein_o these_o threaten_v a_o challenge_n from_o god_n and_o portend_v a_o storm_n of_o wrath_n to_o follow_v hence_o be_v david_n complaint_n psal._n 32._o 3._o 4._o when_o i_o keep_v silence_n my_o bone_n wax_v old_a through_o my_o roar_a etc._n etc._n and_o his_o lamentation_n throughout_o the_o 51._o psalm_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n the_o apostle_n john_n speak_v very_o weighty_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n where_o he_o plain_o insinuat_v that_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n its_o condemn_v be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o god_n condemn_v and_o a_o evidence_n of_o it_o and_o that_o withal_o the_o latter_a be_v as_o more_o absolute_o infallible_a so_o more_o terrible_a than_o the_o former_a where_o these_o three_o go_v along_o together_o it_o be_v impossible_a where_o a_o person_n be_v tender_a but_o he_o will_v be_v loath_a to_o top_n or_o thwart_v with_o his_o conscience_n as_o for_o the_o use_v which_o we_o propose_v to_o speak_v to_o in_o the_o three_o place_n they_o may_v be_v draw_v to_o these_o fou●_n 1._o for_o information_n and_o instruction_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n 2._o for_o trial_n and_o to_o evidence_n who_o be_v sincere_a believer_n 3._o for_o reproof_n 4._o for_o exhortation_n there_o be_v need_n of_o all_o these_o especial_o to_o such_o christian_n who_o take_v but_o little_a heed_n to_o their_o conscience_n the_o first_o use_n show_v what_o be_v believer_n duty_n they_o shall_v by_o all_o mean_n learn_v to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o what_o conscience_n say_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o labour_n to_o have_v their_o conscience_n well_o inform_v and_o take_v notice_n of_o what_o it_o speak_v ere_o they_o do_v any_o thing_n and_o what_o be_v conscience_n thought_n of_o it_o after_o it_o be_v do_v and_o according_o to_o be_v affect_v determine_v and_o sway_v it_o be_v true_a the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v the_o supreme_a rule_n and_o to_o be_v hearken_v to_o in_o the_o first_o place_n but_o that_o which_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v to_o be_v concern_v take_a advice_n from_o conscience_n which_o 1._o do_v make_v the_o law_n speak_v more_o sensible_o lively_a and_o aloud_o then_o before_o 2._o it_o make_v it_o speak_v more_o plain_o for_o when_o people_n reason_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o shuffle_v by_o a_o word_n that_o sam●_n word_n come_v into_o and_o take_v hold_v of_o the_o conscience_n will_v become_v more_o clear_a and_o convince_a and_o it_o make_v the_o understanding_n be_v thereby_o make_v more_o single_a to_o take_v it_o up_o better_a 3._o it_o make_v the_o man_n more_o impartial_a when_o the_o word_n come_v not_o to_o his_o judgement_n only_o neither_o will_v he_o leave_v the_o word_n with_o his_o light_n and_o reason_n simple_o nor_o to_o debate_v with_o his_o inclination_n and_o affection_n but_o put_v the_o word_n and_o his_o conscience_n together_o and_o take_v the_o meaning_n of_o it_o some_o way_n immediate_o from_o his_o conscience_n it_o make_v he_o single_a and_o unbiased_a as_o i_o say_v before_o and_o sometime_o a●_n conscience_n will_v speak_v when_o the_o judgement_n have_v little_a or_o nothing_o to_o say_v so_o it_o decide_v often_o betwixt_o the_o opposite_a reason_n of_o the_o judgement_n for_o both_o side_n 4._o the_o advice_n and_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n be_v much_o more_o powerful_a than_o that_o of_o the_o simple_a judgement_n and_o reason_n and_o adher_v better_a and_o more_o close_o than_o affection_n or_o inclination_n conscience_n be_v more_o direct_o god_n deputy_n and_o in_o a_o more_o immediate_a subordination_n to_o he_o i●_n stick_v more_o tenacious_o by_o duty_n and_o it_o be_v as_o a_o check_n to_o our_o humour_n and_o as_o a_o compass_n to_o steer_v our_o course_n by_o in_o all_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o be_v sway_v by_o its_o advice_n hence_o some_o who_o can_v almost_o debate_v nothing_o in_o reason_n yet_o will_v not_o dare_v for_o conscience_n to_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n some_o necessary_a question_n relate_v to_o practice_n arise_v from_o this_o use_n which_o we_o shall_v speak_v a_o few_o word_n to_o as_o 1._o if_o any_o other_o thing_n beside_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o duty_n 2._o if_o other_o thing_n may_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o duty_n whether_o it_o be_v credit_n interest_n inclination_n will_n or_o affection_n how_o may_v the_o impulse_n of_o these_o be_v decern_v and_o difference_v from_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n 3._o whether_o the_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n may_v always_o be_v follow_v see_v its_o impulse_n may_v be_v wrong_a 4._o what_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o such_o a_o case_n and_o how_o may_v we_o difference_n what_o be_v right_a 5._o whether_o a_o man_n and_o his_o conscience_n may_v be_v friend_n and_o agree_v together_o in_o a_o wrong_a cause_n or_o practice_n for_o the_o first_o question_n whether_o any_o thing_n beside_o conscience_n do_v or_o may_v pour_v to_o duty_n we_o answer_v affirmative_o many_o thing_n may_v court_v we_o which_o by_o their_o impulse_n do_v often_o thwart_v with_o conscience_n hence_o be_v the_o inward_a combat_n in_o the_o christian_a betwixt_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n the_o flesh_n do_v pouss_n to_o one_o thing_n and_o conscience_n to_o the_o contrary_a therefore_o gal._n 5._o 17._o it_o be_v say_v the_o flesh_n lust_v against_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n against_o the_o flesh_n and_o these_o two_o be_v contrary_a one_o to_o another_o and_o rom._n 7._o 23._o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o a_o law_n in_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o lead_v he_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o member_n more_o particular_o these_o thing_n as_o we_o hint_v before_o may_v have_v a_o impulse_n towards_o the_o do_n of_o duty_n as_o first_o man_n credit_n have_v a_o strong_a impulse_n where_o any_o thing_n cross_v it_o be_v apprehend_v to_o occur_v 2._o man_n interest_n have_v often_o a_o impulse_n so_o as_o to_o carry_v on_o a_o selfish_a design_n it_o will_v make_v gain_n seem_v to_o be_v godliness_n 3_o man_n natural_a inclination_n will_n and_o affection_n have_v a_o impulse_n also_o and_o the_o impulse_n of_o these_o will_v sometime_o be_v exceed_v like_a to_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n and_o here_o we_o may_v consider_v these_o three_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v influence_n upon_o 1._o they_o may_v have_v influence_n to_o mar_v a_o man_n light_n and_o pervert_v his_o understanding_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o a_o gift_n it_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o pervert_v the_o understanding_n of_o the_o prudent_a so_o man_n credit_n interest_n and_o natural_a inclination_n may_v in_o a_o sort_n bribe_v the_o understanding_n and_o blind_a the_o judgement_n insensible_o and_o the_o man_n not_o know_v of_o it_o distinct_o at_o least_o 2._o when_o they_o have_v pervert_v the_o judgement_n they_o may_v engage_v the_o affection_n and_o these_o drive_v violent_o 3._o if_o the_o man_n yield_v not_o to_o such_o a_o thing_n his_o credit_n or_o interest_n will_v vex_v he_o like_o conscience_n and_o take_v rest_n and_o quiet_a from_o he_o as_o we_o see_v in_o herod_n matth._n 14._o 9_o who_o when_o the_o dance_a damsel_n suit_v for_o the_o head_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n be_v sorry_a or_o grieve_v nevertheless_o for_o his_o oath_n sake_n and_o for_o they_o who_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o he_o command_v it_o to_o be_v give_v she_o folk_n will_v have_v think_v that_o it_o be_v his_o conscience_n that_o make_v he_o sorry_a but_o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o conscience_n but_o credit_n therefore_o it_o be_v say_v not_o only_o for_o his_o oath_n sake_n but_o for_o they_o that_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o it_o be_v like_a if_o his_o oath_n have_v be_v be_v give_v in_o private_a conscience_n will_v not_o much_o have_v trouble_v he_o and_o while_o it_o be_v say_v he_o be_v sorry_a or_o grieve_a it_o show_v plain_o that_o his_o credit_n suffer_v he_o to_o
nor_o endeavour_n if_o then_o this_o doctrine_n hold_v true_a and_o if_o this_o be_v the_o believer_n exercise_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o to_o please_v his_o conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o in_o nothing_o to_o of●end_v it_o sure_o such_o a_o conscience_n be_v proper_a and_o peculiar_a to_o the_o belieu●r_n and_o so_o may_v be_v a_o evidence_n of_o one_o that_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o christ_n this_o will_v be_v more_o clear_a if_o we_o look_v 1._o to_o the_o use_n that_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o scripture_n make_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o that_o the_o scripture_n will_v and_o allow_v they_o to_o make_v of_o it_o in_o their_o trial_n and_o trouble_n in_o their_o strait_n and_o difficulty_n as_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o this_o place_n paul●lyeth_v ●lyeth_z to_o it_o as_o his_o refuge_n and_o comfort_n himself_o by_o it_o in_o and_o against_o his_o present_a strait_n now_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o character_n and_o mark_n of_o a_o christian_a indeed_o it_o will_v not_o be_v nor_o be_v allow_v to_o be_v make_v such_o a_o ground_n of_o peace_n &_o quietness_n to_o believer_n in_o their_o strait_n 2._o it_o be_v clear_a from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n its_o testify_a which_o be_v not_o its_o own_o or_o from_o and_o for_o itself_o only_o but_o also_o and_o principal_o from_o and_o for_o god_n therefore_o 1_o john_n 3._o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o it_o be_v say_v hereby_o we_o know_v we_o be_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o shall_v assure_v our_o heart_n before_o god_n for_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n but_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n and_o 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o it_o be_v call_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o be_v such_o a_o answer_n as_o give_v quietness_n and_o a_o good_a testimony_n to_o believer_n when_o all_o speak_v against_o they_o or_o speak_v evil_a of_o they_o now_o this_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o a_o man_n bare_a apprehension_n that_o his_o conscience_n be_v good_a but_o it_o take_v in_o these_o three_o 1._o not_o only_o the_o conscience_n its_o say_v nothing_o against_o the_o person_n but_o positive_o speak_v for_o he_o 2._o it_o be_v such_o a_o conscience_n as_o have_v its_o testimony_n ground_v on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 3._o it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sober_o reflect_v on_o itself_o and_o try_v itself_o in_o the_o major_a proposition_n to_o wit_n i●_n such_o a_o thing_n be_v true_a and_o in_o the_o minor_a proportion_n 〈◊〉_d such_o a_o thing_n be_v true_a i●_n reference_n to_o itself_o in_o particular_a and_o find_v both_o proposition_n to_o hold_v true_a then_o ●t_a confident_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n but_o here_o some_o will_v be_v like_o object_n and_o say_v if_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o person_n save_v interest_n in_o christ_n alace_o i_o fear_v i_o never_o have_v that_o evidence_n and_o mark_n neither_o be_o i_o like_a to_o have_v it_o which_o objection_n minister_v ground_n for_o these_o two_o question_n 1._o if_o a_o believer_n may_v ever_o or_o at_o any_o time_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o 2._o what_o be_v the_o character_n and_o property_n of_o such_o a_o conscience_n for_o answer_v to_o the_o first_o we_o will_v distinguish_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o may_v be_v understand_v either_o 1_o legal_o and_o so_o it_o be_v a_o conscience_n give_v testimony_n to_o the_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n perfect_o take_v it_o so_o except_v je●_n 〈◊〉_d there_o be_v never_o a_o man_n since_o adam_n fall_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n or_o a_o conscience_n altogether_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n or_o 2._o a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v understand_v evangelical_o or_o in_o a_o gospel_n sense_n or_o as_o i●_n draw_v it's_o conclusion_n not_o from_o the_o law_n but_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n believer_n may_v have_v and_o often_o actual_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n thus_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n david_n hezekiah_n paul_n and_o other_o have_v draw_v comfort_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o good_a conscience_n not_o draw_v its_o testimony_n from_o nor_o sound_v it_o upon_o the_o law_n and_o the_o perfect_a puri●_n that_o it_o require_v but_o f●m_n and_o upon_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o purity_n that_o it_o gracious_o 〈◊〉_d in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n for_o the_o second_o viz._n what_o be_v the_o property_n of_o this_o conscience_n which_o will_v clear_v the_o former_a and_o also_o clear_a how_o it_o come_v that_o when_o conscience_n challenge_v for_o sin_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o the_o believer_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v take_v it_o as_o a_o mark_n of_o his_o save_a interest_n in_o christ_n i_o shall_v give_v th●_n 4._o or_o 5._o property_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 〈◊〉_d when_o there_o may_v be_v sin_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v when_o conscience_n be_v universal_a and_o impartial_a in_o its_o put_v 〈◊〉_d duty_n thus_o say_v the_o psalmist_n psal._n 119._o 6._o then_o shall_v i_o not_o be_v ashamed_a when_o i_o have_v respect_n to_o all_o thy_o commandment_n when_o the_o conscience_n dispense_v not_o with_o itself_o in_o the_o least_o duty_n or_o sin_n but_o its_o design_n aim_v and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o be_v in_o the_o obedience_n of_o all_o command_v duty_n and_o in_o the_o degree_n that_o be_v call_v for_o it_o be_v on_o these_o two_o that_o david_n go_v psal._n 18_o vers_fw-la 20_o 21_o 22._o the_o lord_n reward_v i_o according_a to_o my_o righteousness_n according_a to_o the_o cleanness_n of_o my_o hand_n have_v ●e_n recompense_v i_o for_o i_o have_v keep_v the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o have_v not_o wicked_o depart_v from_o my_o god_n as_o i●_n he_o have_v say_v i_o halu●d_v not_o the_o bible_n nor_o the_o command_n nor_o do_v i_o misinterpret_v they_o neither_o do_v i_o depart_v wicked_o i_o never_o resolve_o allow_v myself_o in_o any_o sin_n so_o as_o to_o oppose_v one_o sin_n and_o to_o indulge_v and_o connive_v at_o another_o for_o all_o his_o judgement_n be_v before_o i_o and_o i_o do_v not_o put_v away_o his_o statute_n from_o i_o i_o endeavour_v to_o set_v they_o always_o as_o a_o compass_n before_o i_o by_o which_o i_o allow_v myself_o to_o steer_v my_o whole_a course_n i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o keep_v myself_o from_o my_o iniquity_n the_o sin_n that_o i_o be_v most_o give_v unto_o that_o have_v most_o power_n over_o i_o and_o to_o which_o i_o have_v the_o manye_v and_o strong_a assault_n of_o temptation_n i_o keep_v myself_o most_o watchful_o from_o that_o a_o second_o propertie_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o gospel_n sense_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o conscience_n very_o single_a have_v a_o just_a regard_n for_o all_o these_o thing_n require_v in_o a_o christian_a walk_n whereof_o we_o speak_v before_o it_o s_o very_o observant_a of_o the_o performance_n of_o all_o duty_n look_v not_o only_o to_o the_o matter_n but_o to_o the_o spiritual_a manner_n of_o g●ing_v about_o they_o it_o be_v single_a in_o its_o motive_n and_o end_n lay_v due_a weight_n on_o that_o which_o christ_n say_v if_o thy_o eye_n 〈◊〉_d single_a thy_o whole_a body_n shall_v he_o full_a of_o light_n that_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n indeed_o when_o a_o man_n in_o his_o act_n be_v swey_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o do_v not_o what_o he_o do_v to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n nor_o to_o have_v somewhat_o to_o 〈◊〉_d of_o before_o god_n but_o he_o seek_v to_o have_v christ_n increase_v though_o he_o shall_v decrease_v and_o be_v conant_a to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d upon_o if_o it_o may_v contribute_v to_o the_o exait_a of_o he_o and_o will_v fain_o be_v up_o at_o the_o due_a manner_n of_o perform_v all_o call_v for_o du●es_n even_o to_o be_v in_o case_n with_o the_o apostle_n heb._n 13._o 18._o to_o say_v w●_n trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o this_o be_v our_o aim_n and_o design_n and_o if_o it_o be_v otherwise_o with_o we_o in_o any_o thing_n we_o approve_v not_o ourselves_o in_o it_o a_o three_o property_n be_v that_o such_o a_o conscience_n be_v delight_v and_o make_v glad_a or_o grieve_v and_o make_v sad_a according_a as_o it_o be_v enable_v to_o manage_v this_o great_a design_n and_o to_o prosecute_v and_o attain_v this_o noble_a end_n or_o not_o in_o this_o respect_n a_o believer_n may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n even_o when_o he_o fail_v and_o come_v
short_a in_o his_o duty_n which_o will_v quite_o mar_v a_o legal_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n or_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o legal_a good_a conscience_n thus_o paul_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n rom._n 7._o 22._o even_o when_o he_o be_v wrestle_v against_o sin_n and_o cry_v out_o in_o the_o fight_n o_o miserable_a man_n that_o ●_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n for_o he_o find_v himself_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n after_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o that_o his_o design_n be_v to_o be_v honest_a and_o single_a for_o god_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o challenge_n of_o conscience_n as_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v ground_n for_o it_o that_o affe●eth_v and_o trouble_v he_o when_o he_o think_v with_o himself_o what_o may_v i_o and_o must_v i_o be_v before_o god_n when_o conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o so_o many_o thing_n to_o be_v amiss_o in_o i_o it_o be_v from_o this_o ground_n i_o say_v that_o paul_n comfort_v himself_o that_o he_o allow_v not_o himself_o in_o that_o which_o he_o do_v and_o reckon_v his_o evangelical_o good_a conscience_n and_o his_o sincerity_n to_o be_v his_o renew_a part_n and_o as_o such_o side_v and_o take_v part_n with_o it_o and_o condemn_v the_o un_fw-we renew_v part_n a_o four_o property_n or_o character_n be_v take_v from_o a_o believer_n walk_v in_o reference_n to_o his_o challenge_n this_o be_v not_o the_o mark_n that_o he_o want_v challenge_n but_o it_o be_v draw_v from_o the_o influence_n that_o challenge_v have_v on_o he_o which_o comprehend_v three_o different_a character_n 1._o a_o gospel_n good_a conscience_n take_v quick_o and_o easy_o with_o a_o challenge_n and_o be_v soon_o trouble_a and_o melt_v 2._o it_o be_v make_v quick_o to_o loath_a and_o con●emn_v itself_o for_o sin_n and_o so_o conscience_n and_o the_o man_n agree_v well_o together_o when_o conscience_n say_v to_o he_o thou_o be_v a_o sinner_n thou_o ar●_n lose_v justice_n must_v be_v satisfy_v and_o thou_o can_v not_o do_v it_o he_o say_v so_o likewise_o 3._o when_o challenge_v put_v yet_o further_o at_o he_o and_o pursue_v he_o yet_o hard_o and_o close_a the_o good_a conscience_n make_v he_o ●ee_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o set_v he_o a_o seek_v of_o pardon_n from_o god_n in_o the_o court_n of_o grace_n when_o the_o man_n be_v some_o way_n condemn_v in_o the_o court_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n and_o then_o he_o obtain_v peace_n even_o in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n for_o when_o god_n speak_v peace_n in_o and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n the_o conscience_n also_o speak_v peace_n and_o thus_o though_o the_o man_n have_v not_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o law_n sense_n as_o i_o say_v before_o yet_o in_o a_o gospel-sense_n he_o have_v and_o he_o mind_v to_o keep_v friendship_n with_o god_n and_o with_o his_o conscience_n though_o he_o can_v quiet_v pacify_v and_o satisfy_v it_o in_o a_o legal_a way_n yet_o in_o a_o gospel_n way_n he_o may_v and_o this_o be_v even_o it_o that_o the_o saint_n have_v in_o their_o appeal_n to_o their_o conscience_n for_o the_o great_a ground_n of_o their_o peace_n viz._n the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o practice_n and_o their_o flee_v to_o christ_n blood_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n in_o the_o crowd_n of_o challenge_n for_o their_o short_a come_n and_o fail_n in_o practice_n and_o that_o very_o warrantable_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whoever_o sincere_o take_v this_o way_n though_o they_o have_v challenge_n of_o conscience_n they_o have_v yet_o notwithstanding_o a_o good_a conscience_n such_o a_o conscience_n challenge_v by_o the_o law_n yet_o absolve_v by_o the_o gospel_n challenge_v on_o account_n of_o the_o rebellion_n of_o the_o law_n in_o the_o member_n and_o yet_o absolve_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o law_n in_o the_o mind_n it_o condemn_v the_o man_n as_o loathsome_a in_o himself_o and_o in_o his_o own_o duty_n and_o righteousness_n and_o yet_o absolve_v he_o as_o sound_v his_o peace_n on_o christ_n and_o sink_v and_o put_v to_o silence_v all_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n in_o that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o speak_v blood_n that_o have_v a_o cry_n to_o outcry_n the_o loud_a cry_n of_o the_o most_o clamorous_a and_o guilty_a conscience_n and_o what_o can_v be_v just_o say_v against_o this_o since_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v perfect_a and_o god_n promise_v faithful_a and_o christ_n blood_n of_o force_n and_o efficacy_n to_o quiet_a and_o give_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v h●re_o may_v not_o a_o natural_a un-renewed_n person_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n or_o how_o far_o may_v his_o conscience_n be_v good_a and_o wherein_o lie_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o his_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o believer_n good_a conscience_n i_o know_v this_o be_v a_o piece_n of_o the_o spiritual_a pride_n and_o vanity_n of_o many_o of_o you_o to_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o real_o it_o will_v make_v a_o tender_a conscience_n some_o way_n to_o loath_a to_o hear_v you_o speak_v so_o confident_o of_o it_o i_o shall_v therefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n answer_n to_o the_o question_n how_o far_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o natural_a man_n or_o a_o hypocri●e_n may_v be_v good_a and_o than_o show_v you_o how_o and_o wherein_o it_o be_v defective_a and_o what_o be_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o it_o and_o the_o believer_n good_a conscience_n for_o the_o first_o i_o will_v say_v this_o in_o general_a in_o the_o first_o place_n that_o we_o be_v not_o now_o speak_v of_o sl●epie_a err_a dead_a and_o harden_a conscience_n the_o testimony_n of_o these_o be_v little_a worth_n neither_o be_v every_o thing_n conscience_n that_o many_o man_n think_v to_o be_v so_o conscience_n must_v act_v according_a to_o the_o word_n else_o it_o withdraw_v itself_o from_o that_o due_a subordination_n it_o stand_v in_o to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o law_n conscience_n be_v oblige_v to_o abide_v and_o stand_v by_o god_n testimony_n but_o god_n be_v not_o oblige_v to_o stand_v by_o its_o testimony_n we_o will_v therefore_o beware_v of_o mistake_a conscience_n more_o particular_o in_o the_o 2d_o place_n a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v something_o like_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v come_v the_o length_n of_o these_o four_o step_n according_a to_o his_o light_n ●_o he_o may_v have_v a_o negative_a good_a conscience_n that_o be_v a_o conscience_n which_o do_v not_o actual_o challenge_v he_o yea_o a_o conscience_n that_o have_v no_o gross_a thing_n to_o challenge_v he_o for_o he_o be_v it_o may_v be_v no_o murderer_n no_o adulterer_n he_o defign_v no_o oppression_n nor_o deceit_n in_o his_o deal_v etc._n etc._n and_o on_o this_o ground_n he_o possible_o think_v that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n though_o he_o have_v no_o positive_a testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n all_o this_o while_n 2._o he_o may_v someway_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a act_n in_o respect_n of_o be_v free_a of_o a_o challenge_n on_o account_n of_o a_o wrong_a design_n of_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o moral_a sincerity_n and_o ingenuity_n such_o as_o be_v in_o these_o man_n that_o follow_v absolom_n in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o in_o abimelech_n who_o in_o take_v abraham_n wife_n mean_v no_o evil_a no●_n any_o thing_n but_o what_o be_v lawful_a and_o therefore_o he_o say_v that_o in_o the_o integrity_n of_o his_o heart_n ●e_n do_v it_o that_o be_v he_o have_v a_o moral_a honest_a design_n and_o be_v free_a from_o ground_n of_o challenge_n about_o what_o other_o may_v have_v be_v ready_a to_o charge_v he_o with_o as_o to_o that_o action_n 3_o he_o may_v come_v a_o great_a length_n as_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n of_o the_o law_n so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o wrong_v his_o neighbour_n in_o word_n nor_o deed_n he_o may_v design_v no_o man_n hurt_n he_o may_v wish_v evil_a to_o no_o man_n thus_o very_o probable_o it_o be_v with_o that_o pharisee_fw-mi who_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o say_v all_o these_o have_v i_o keep_v from_o my_o youth_n the_o poor_a man_n speak_v as_o he_o think_v not_o know_v the_o spiritual_a meaning_n and_o extent_n of_o the_o law_n therefore_o when_o he_o be_v bid_v sell_v all_o and_o g●ve_v to_o the_o poor_a he_o go_v away_o grieve_v he_o have_v no_o gross_a sinister_a design_n it_o be_v also_o say_v that_o christ_n love_v he_o or_o pity_v he_o as_o a_o civil_a man_n and_o it_o be_v indeed_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o mere_o civil_a man_n so_o much_o magnify_v and_o cry_v up_o their_o conscience_n and_o place_n all_o
bless_v what_o you_o have_v hear_v through_o jesus_n christ._n sermon_n iu._n act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o excellent_a and_o very_a sovereign_a cordial_n to_o be_v carry_v about_o and_o along_o with_o we_o in_o all_o condition_n and_o more_o especial_o in_o afflict_v one_o but_o as_o excellent_a thing_n be_v usual_o come_v at_o with_o the_o great_a difficulty_n so_o be_v it_o in_o this_o matter_n there_o be_v so_o many_o so_o various_a and_o so_o great_a difficulty_n in_o the_o way_n of_o take_v up_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o aright_o and_o in_o the_o attain_n and_o mainta_v of_o it_o and_o there_o be_v so_o very_a many_o who_o claim_v to_o it_o most_o unwarrantable_o and_o unjust_o though_o poor_a deluded_a soul_n they_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o they_o do_v so_o on_o good_a and_o warrantable_a ground_n all_o which_o make_v this_o doctrine_n concern_v the_o exercise_n and_o practice_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n to_o be_v exceed_o difficult_a and_o tickle_a you_o may_v remember_v the_o point_n we_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o last_o day_n be_v that_o believer_n ought_v and_o when_o they_o be_v right_a will_v have_v it_o for_o their_o exercise_n and_o study_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n whence_o we_o draw_v this_o use_n that_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o sound_a believer_n when_o right_a and_o in_o a_o good_a frame_n even_o to_o be_v thus_o exercise_v a_o tender_a lively_a and_o good_a frame_n of_o soul_n ●ay_v be_v know_v by_o this_o that_o the_o person_n aim_v sing_o and_o endeavour_v serious_o to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n in_o clear_v of_o this_o use_n there_o be_v some_o doubt_n that_o arise_v on_o the_o one_o side_n when_o conscience_n speak_v good_a to_o a_o person_n without_o a_o warrant_n in_o which_o case_n it_o be_v very_o dangerous_a to_o take_v direction_n from_o it_o and_o some_o doubt_n arise_v also_o on_o the_o other_o side_n when_o conscience_n do_v challenge_v and_o condemn_v when_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o something_o therefore_o must_v be_v speak_v for_o clear_v and_o solve_v both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o the_o last_o thing_n we_o leave_v at_o be_v that_o see_v some_o natural_a man_n civil_a moral_a man_n and_o hypocrite_n may_v think_v they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n that_o they_o be_v right_a and_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o it_o how_o shall_v that_o testimony_n be_v discern_v or_o wherein_o do_v it_o differ_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n that_o give_v a_o believer_n ground_n to_o draw_v this_o conclusion_n from_o it_o that_o he_o be_v real_a and_o sincere_a in_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n for_o clear_v of_o this_o matter_n relate_v to_o these_o conscience_n that_o speak_v good_a when_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o fall_v here_o and_o be_v thereby_o culpable_o accessary_a to_o this_o delusion_n of_o and_o from_o their_o own_o conscience_n 1._o some_o fail_n in_o mistake_v duty_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o duty_n suppose_v that_o to_o be_v a_o acceptable_a duty_n which_o be_v but_o the_o shadow_n and_o appearance_n of_o duty_n and_o this_o make_v all_o self_n righteous-man_n and_o legal-hypocrite_n who_o thwart_v not_o the_o dark_a or_o dim_a light_n of_o their_o conscience_n but_o rather_o follow_v and_o comply_v with_o it_o to_o think_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o it_o be_v with_o paul_n before_o his_o conversion_n a_o second_o sort_n be_v these_o who_o take_v with_o sin_n but_o think_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o on_o this_o ground_n their_o conscience_n speak_v peace_n to_o they_o though_o it_o have_v no_o warrant_n to_o do_v so_o suppose_v themselves_o to_o be_v believer_n on_o that_o ground_n conscience_n speak_v peace_n to_o they_o when_o it_o have_v no_o warrant_n nor_o be_v they_o believer_n indeed_o and_o thus_o alace_o many_o that_o be_v repute_v by_o themselves_o and_o other_o to_o be_v believer_n fail_v these_o be_v presumptuous_a hypocrite_n as_o the_o other_o be_v legal_a hypocrite_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v call_v a_o presumptuous_a conscience_n that_o speak_v peace_n and_o apply_v mercy_n when_o it_o have_v no_o ground_n for_o either_o in_o answer_v then_o to_o the_o question_n we_o shall_v give_v some_o difference_v character_n or_o characteristic_a difference_n betwixt_o the_o believer_n good_a conscience_n and_o these_o other_o sort_n of_o conscience_n some_o whereof_o agree_n more_o to_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o some_o more_o to_o the_o other_o and_o some_o to_o both_o but_o take_v they_o together_o the_o character_n be_v these_o 1._o a_o real_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o easy_o attain_v nor_o maintain_v it_o put_v a_o man_n to_o considerable_a exercise_n ●re_n he_o come_v at_o it_o and_o to_o no_o less_o how_o to_o keep_v it_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o etc._n etc._n say_v the_o apostle_n security_n and_o negligence_n be_v no_o good_a token_n there_o be_v these_o two_o thing_n that_o a_o man_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v exercise_v in_o 1._o to_o prevent_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n from_o his_o conscience_n by_o endeavour_v to_o give_v it_o no_o offence_n against_o which_o the_o presumptuous_a hypocrite_n sin_v who_o fanci_v that_o he_o have_v peace_n and_o it_o may_v be_v think_v much_o of_o it_o and_o yet_o be_v not_o trouble_v nor_o take_v up_o how_o to_o prevent_v the_o give_n of_o offence_n to_o his_o conscience_n nor_o his_o meeting_n with_o a_o challenge_n from_o it_o the_o legal_a hypocrite_n also_o sin_v here_o in_o bound_v and_o limit_v his_o holiness_n to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o small_a measure_n of_o it_o without_o so_o much_o as_o aim_v any_o further_o 2._o he_o be_v exercise_v to_o satisfy_v his_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v offend_v hence_o be_v the_o application_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n the_o self-loathing_a and_o sharpness_n of_o challenge_n that_o conscience_n have_v with_o it_o until_o it_o recover_v even_o such_o exercise_n as_o will_n in_o a_o manner_n break_v the_o bone_n and_o turn_v the_o moisture_n into_o the_o drought_n of_o summer_n as_o it_o be_v psal._n 51._o and_o psal._n 32._o this_o good_a conscience_n can_v look_v on_o sin_n and_o not_o be_v trouble_v and_o therefore_o they_o who_o ordinary_o and_o habitual_o can_v look_v on_o sin_n without_o trouble_n or_o sorrow_n and_o judge_v it_o a_o very_a easy_a business_n to_o quiet_a and_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o conscience_n who_o speak_v peace_n to_o themselves_o when_o lie_v still_o under_o guilt_n unrepented_a of_o and_o unremoved_a carry_v about_o with_o they_o a_o shrewd_a token_n of_o no_o good_a conscience_n the_o second_o character_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v know_v be_v the_o mean_a and_o way_n that_o a_o man_n take_v to_o quiet_v his_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v waken_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o it_o yield_v a_o man_n peaceand_v testify_v well_o concern_v his_o state_n so_o that_o peace_n rise_v not_o so_o much_o from_o this_o that_o he_o have_v no_o sin_n as_o from_o his_o fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n he_o may_v have_v peace_n as_o to_o his_o sincere_a and_o universal_a aim_n at_o holiness_n and_o as_o to_o his_o honest_a and_o serious_a endeavour_n to_o abstain_v from_o every_o know_a sin_n as_o it_o be_v with_o david_n psal._n 18._o 20_o 21_o 22._o but_o as_o to_o the_o satisfy_n of_o divine_a justice_n he_o have_v have_v no_o peace_n but_o in_o rest_v on_o christ_n satisfaction_n alone_o for_o though_o his_o way_n may_v be_v and_o be_v good_a in_o respect_n of_o his_o single_a follow_v of_o duty_n for_o he_o read_v pray_v meditate_v etc._n etc._n yet_o corruption_n in_o a_o great_a measure_n pollute_v all_o these_o work_n and_o duty_n of_o he_o as_o to_o the_o acceptation_n of_o they_o on_o their_o own_o account_n and_o for_o themselves_o he_o find_v that_o they_o be_v in_o some_o respect_n but_o dead_a as_o want_v much_o of_o the_o soul_n and_o life_n of_o they_o neither_o can_v he_o have_v peace_n till_o he_o betake_v himself_o to_o christ_n blood_n though_o he_o be_v communicate_v every_o day_n pray_v every_o hour_n etc._n etc._n yet_o he_o have_v no_o peace_n in_o these_o till_o christ_n blood_n speak_v peace_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n who_o though_o he_o have_v peace_n intimate_v by_o nathan_n yet_o be_v not_o thorough_o quiet_a for_o all_o that_o and_o therefore_o he_o pray_v psal._n 51._o cause_v i_o to_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o joy_n and_o gladness_n
there_o be_v no_o heal_n of_o his_o wound_n till_o a_o word_n from_o god_n himself_o do_v it_o it_o be_v on_o the_o contrary_a a_o ill_a token_n when_o a_o conscience_n see_v sin_n and_o can_v speak_v peace_n to_o itself_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o there_o be_v mercy_n in_o god_n and_o yet_o never_o apply_v the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v to_o purge_v it_o from_o dead_a work_n nor_o seek_v to_o have_v the_o word_n speak_v as_o it_o be_v from_o god_n own_o mouth_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o legal_a conscience_n will_v make_v amends_o to_o god_n will_v give_v he_o sacrifice_n enough_o and_o perform_v many_o duty_n to_o he_o look_v for_o his_o acceptance_n only_o on_o account_n of_o these_o and_o that_o be_v as_o ill_a a_o token_n but_o a_o good_a conscience_n rest_v not_o on_o any_o of_o these_o but_o though_o it_o have_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o a_o break_a and_o contrite_a spirit_n to_o offer_v to_o god_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o rest_n on_o that_o nor_o on_o any_o duty_n but_o be_v put_v beyond_o these_o to_o rest_v on_o christ_n and_o on_o his_o sacrifice_n purge_v i_o with_o hyssop_n etc._n etc._n say_v david_n psal._n 51._o and_o this_o be_v a_o clear_a and_o certain_a difference_v mark_n even_o to_o consider_v well_o whereon_o conscience_n rest_v for_o peace_n after_o a_o challenge_n and_o to_o make_v sure_a that_o it_o rest_v thus_o on_o christ._n a_o 3d._a character_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v both_o challenge_v and_o speak_v peace_n at_o one_o time_n it_o can_v stand_v up_o and_o defend_v itself_o against_o a_o challenge_n thus_o when_o the_o law_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n come_v and_o charge_v it_o with_o many_o defect_n in_o duty_n and_o denounce_v wrath_n against_o it_o because_o of_o these_o it_o will_v humble_o take_v with_o they_o and_o yet_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n in_o the_o very_a time_n it_o can_v betake_v itself_o to_o christ_n and_o produce_v a_o word_n of_o peace_n that_o it_o have_v ready_a at_o hand_n from_o he_o this_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n 1_o tim._n 1._o 13._o i_o be_v say_v he_o before_o a_o blasphemer_n a_o persecuter_n and_o injurious_a but_o i_o obtain_v mercy_n it_o be_v a_o evil_a token_n when_o man_n either_o have_v only_a challenge_n and_o no_o peace_n or_o only_a peace_n and_o no_o challenge_n at_o all_o as_o it_o be_v also_o a_o evil_a token_n to_o offer_v to_o maintain_v peace_n by_o shift_a challenge_n or_o to_o give_v over_o press_v after_o and_o maintain_v of_o peace_n by_o give_v way_n to_o challenge_n but_o it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n when_o conscience_n can_v take_v kind_o with_o and_o be_v humble_v under_o challenge_n and_o yet_o debate_v against_o they_o so_o as_o to_o keep_v and_o maintain_v peace_n and_o can_v give_v a_o warrant_n for_o its_o do_v so_o which_o be_v indeed_o a_o great_a practic_n in_o religion_n we_o may_v see_v a_o clear_a instance_n of_o this_o in_o jo●_a who_o say_v chap._n 7._o 20._o i_o have_v sin_v what_o shall_v i_o do_v unto_o thou_o o_o thou_o preserver_n of_o man_n where_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o he_o have_v sin_v and_o can_v make_v amends_o and_o yet_o chap._n 27._o 4_o 5._o he_o say_v with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o peremptoryness_n my_o lip_n shall_v not_o speak_v wickedness_n nor_o my_o tongue_n utter_a deceit_n god_n forbid_v that_o i_o shall_v justify_v you_o till_o i_o die_v i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n from_o i_o when_o god_n speak_v or_o seem_v to_o speak_v wrath_n his_o angry_a countenance_n drive_v he_o not_o away_o from_o he_o though_o say_v he_o chap._n 13._o 15._o he_o shall_v kill_v i_o yet_o i_o will_v trust_v in_o he_o but_o i_o will_v maintain_v my_o own_o way_n before_o he_o and_o vers_n 16._o a_o hypocrite_n shall_v not_o come_v before_o he_o the_o hypocrite_n or_o legal_a man_n give_v it_o over_o when_o he_o be_v thus_o put_v hard_a to_o it_o ●_o though_o it_o be_v easy_a for_o he_o to_o presume_v while_o the_o law_n and_o wrath_n break_v not_o in_o yet_o when_o the_o law_n come_v sin_n revive_v and_o he_o die_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 79._o it_o be_v easy_a to_o have_v peace_n so_o long_o as_o god_n speak_v not_o downright_a against_o it_o but_o when_o he_o come_v to_o set_v all_o a_o man_n sin_n in_o order_n before_o he_o he_o will_v with_o judas_n run_v and_o hang_v himself_o rather_o than_o abide_v that_o torment_a conscience_n of_o he_o terrible_o denounce_v war_n and_o wrath_n from_o god_n against_o he_o a_o four_o character_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v love_v to_o entertain_v and_o welcome_v a_o challenge_n but_o a_o ill_a conscience_n can_v abide_v nor_o endure_v a_o challenge_n and_o if_o it_o can_v it_o will_v have_v conscience_n always_o silent_a and_o quiet_a when_o yet_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v quiet_a neither_o have_v it_o any_o ground_n to_o be_v so_o he_o who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v glad_a to_o have_v sin_n discover_v and_o conscience_n keep_v wake_v he_o think_v a_o sanctify_a conviction_n of_o sin_n a_o valueable_a mercy_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o aim_v not_o so_o much_o at_o this_o to_o have_v peace_n in_o himself_o as_o to_o have_v a_o good_a and_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n betwixt_o god_n and_o he_o and_o to_o remove_v what_o may_v mar_v it_o whereas_o the_o hypocrite_n great_a design_n be_v to_o have_v peace_n on_o any_o term_n and_o by_o any_o mean_n and_o therefore_o when_o a_o challenge_n come_v close_o and_o home_o to_o he_o it_o be_v quite_o mar_v it_o be_v on_o this_o ground_n that_o a_o tender_a soul_n will_v design_o aggrege_n sin_n and_o even_o foster_v a_o challenge_n as_o david_n do_v psal._n ●1_n against_o thou_o thou_o only_o have_v i_o sin_v whereas_o a_o saul_n will_v defend_v his_o own_o sinful_a practice_n and_o seek_v to_o shift_v the_o challenge_n as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o sam._n 15._o 10._o yea_o i_o have_v keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v that_o proud_a hypocrite_n a_o 5_o character_n or_o difference_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n maintain_v its_o peace_n both_o from_o the_o law_n and_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o will_v needs_o have_v peace_n in_o some_o measure_n in_o respect_n of_o both_o else_o it_o will_v not_o be_v satisfy_v the_o evil_a conscience_n again_o take_v its_o peace_n from_o the_o one_o and_o not_o from_o the_o other_o and_o so_o take_v a_o wrong_a rule_n or_o ground_n for_o sound_v and_o try_v of_o its_o peace_n a_o honest_a man_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n have_v respect_n to_o the_o law_n and_o will_v not_o thwart_v it_o yea_o the_o challenge_v and_o condemn_v part_n of_o it_o be_v welcome_v and_o the_o threaten_n of_o it_o have_v influence_n on_o he_o to_o make_v he_o fear_v and_o as_o he_o respect_v the_o law_n so_o he_o respect_v the_o gospel_n and_o look_v well_o to_o believe_v repentance_n self-searching_a examination_n meditation_n and_o to_o his_o manner_n of_o perform_v these_o and_o of_o all_o his_o other_o duty_n that_o none_o of_o they_o come_v in_o the_o place_n of_o christ_n or_o get_v any_o thing_n of_o that_o which_o be_v his_o due_n and_o though_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o have_v faith_n in_o christ_n if_o he_o endeavour_v not_o to_o have_v holiness_n go_v along_o with_o it_o he_o dare_v not_o speak_v peace_n to_o himself_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o legal_a man_n or_o law-conscience_n if_o it_o be_v in_o good_a term_n as_o he_o suppose_v with_o the_o law_n it_o look_v not_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n whether_o the_o man_n be_v indeed_o flee_v to_o christ_n or_o be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o god_n through_o he_o and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n the_o presumptuous_a conscience_n when_o it_o hear_v the_o law_n and_o the_o threaten_n thereof_o it_o ●ome_v way_n tush_v at_o these_o and_o under_o pretext_n of_o betake_v itself_o to_o christ_n it_o tear_v as_o it_o be_v away_o the_o law_n and_o this_o mistake_n halve_a and_o divide_v of_o the_o rule_n make_v many_o man_n think_v that_o their_o conscience_n speak_v good_a to_o they_o when_o it_o do_v not_o so_o but_o have_v rather_o ground_n to_o speak_v evil_a and_o wo._n and_o in_o the_o by_o you_o who_o think_v you_o have_v good_a conscience_n try_v they_o by_o this_o mark_n if_o you_o walk_v humble_o under_o conscience-convictions_a take_v with_o they_o and_o if_o they_o be_v welcome_a to_o you_o as_o well_o as_o a_o word_n of_o peace_n a_o 6_o character_n or_o difference_n be_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v holy_o jealous_a and_o suspicious_a while_o a_o evil_a conscience_n be_v presumptuous_o confident_a and_o bold_a we_o say_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v suspicious_a and_o therefore_o be_v often_o put_v
itself_o to_o proof_n and_o trial_n take_v the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o try_v it_o thereby_o and_o take_v the_o answer_n on_o deliberation_n and_o not_o off-hand_n or_o by_o guess_n because_o it_o know_v conscience_n be_v but_o a_o servant_n and_o therefore_o will_v try_v if_o it_o speak_v its_o master_n even_o god_n language_n to_o this_o purpose_n say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o i_o know_v nothing_o by_o myself_o yet_o be_o i_o not_o hereby_o justify_v it_o will_v either_o have_v conscience_n sentence_n and_o god_n sentence_n go_v together_o or_o else_o it_o will_v reject_v and_o cast_v it_o whereas_o the_o most_o part_n of_o man_n satisfy_v themselves_o with_o the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n and_o look_v not_o after_o god_n sentence_n and_o misinterpret_v conscience_n and_o take_v its_o first_o word_n as_o it_o be_v and_o put_v it_o not_o to_o the_o trial_n ah_o be_v not_o this_o true_a of_o many_o of_o your_o conscience_n you_o think_v you_o have_v peace_n and_o that_o all_o matter_n be_v clear_a and_o well_o betwixt_o god_n and_o you_o notwithstanding_o you_o be_v secure_a ignorant_a or_o profane_a but_o when_o do_v you_o put_v your_o conscience_n to_o the_o trial_n ask_v your_o conscience_n if_o in_o all_o the_o word_n of_o god_n peace_n be_v speak_v to_o the_o wicked_a or_o to_o any_o that_o be_v not_o sincere_o aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v holy_a consider_v that_o word_n psal._n 85._o vers_fw-la 8._o the_o lord_n will_v speak_v peace_n to_o his_o people_n and_o to_o his_o saint_n there_o be_v not_o one_o word_n of_o peace_n for_o the_o profane_a and_o unholy_a how_o then_o can_v your_o conscience_n possible_o speak_v peace_n if_o it_o presume_v to_o do_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o beguile_v you_o and_o therefore_o as_o you_o will_v not_o be_v deceive_v sollow_v not_o neither_o lay_v weight_n upon_o every_o word_n that_o conscience_n speak_v as_o to_o your_o state_n especial_o at_o first_o but_o try_v it_o by_o the_o word_n or_o take_v its_o sentence_n to_o god_n and_o to_o the_o word_n and_o see_v how_o he_o approve_v of_o it_o and_o how_o his_o word_n do_v warrant_v it_o for_o as_o solomon_n say_v prov._n 30._o 12._o there_o be_v a_o generation_n that_o be_v pure_a in_o their_o own_o eye_n that_o be_v not_o cleanse_v from_o their_o filthiness_n there_o be_v yet_o on_o this_o side_n a_o 2d_o question_v viz._n if_o conscience_n may_v not_o only_o think_v itself_o to_o be_v right_a but_o think_v so_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n so_o as_o even_o to_o be_v persuade_v of_o it_o when_o yet_o it_o be_v wrong_a answer_v without_o all_o question_n it_o may_v and_o here_o we_o may_v speak_v somewhat_o of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n which_o be_v a_o conscience_n that_o not_o only_o be_v wrong_n and_o err_v and_o speak_v good_a when_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o but_o a_o conscience_n that_o have_v these_o two_o thing_n beside_o in_o it_o 1._o it_o have_v a_o persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v right_a 2._o it_o have_v the_o affection_n somewhat_o stir_v by_o it_o and_o a_o sort_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o thing_n whereof_o it_o be_v persuade_v it_o be_v i_o say_v a_o conscience_n that_o not_o only_o speak_v good_a without_o ground_n but_o have_v a_o persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v right_a and_o a_o kind_n of_o joy_n in_o its_o way_n that_o there_o may_v be_v and_o be_v such_o a_o conscience_n among_o the_o generality_n of_o professor_n can_v be_v deny_v and_o be_v clear_a from_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v gal._n 5._o 3._o this_o persuasion_n come_v not_o of_o he_o that_o call_v you_o there_o be_v a_o persuasion_n and_o yet_o not_o of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o other_o to_o wit_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o joy_n in_o the_o thing_n see_v gal._n 3._o 1._o o_o foolish_a galatian_n who_o have_v bewitch_v you_o they_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o conceit_n and_o fainness_n even_o to_o a_o kind_a fascination_n and_o bewitch_v conceit_n of_o their_o be_v right_a neither_o be_v there_o any_o deal_n with_o they_o to_o draw_v they_o off_o that_o way_n there_o be_v four_o sort_n of_o these_o conscience_n among_o professor_n according_a to_o four_o several_z rises_z that_o they_o have_v none_o of_o which_o will_n warrant_v they_o to_o think_v themselves_o to_o be_v right_a the_o 1._o rise_v be_v from_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o suppose_a reason_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o delusion_n that_o arise_v from_o this_o ground_n which_o be_v it_o wherewith_o the_o galatian_n be_v carry_v away_o have_v hear_v first_o from_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n and_o thereafter_o from_o some_o false_a teacher_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n as_o necessary_a to_o be_v add_v to_o it_o in_o the_o point_n of_o justification_n they_o think_v there_o be_v good_a reason_n for_o such_o a_o doctrine_n and_o that_o no_o loss_n nor_o prejudice_n can_v come_v by_o it_o and_o therefore_o they_o do_v join_v both_o together_o the_o second_o rise_v be_v when_o man_n lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o great_a though_o yet_o but_o common_a gift_n as_o on_o liberty_n in_o prayer_n and_o warmness_n of_o the_o ●_z therein_o on_o preach_v notable_o and_o one_o stand_v it_o out_o in_o sharp_a trial_n with_o the_o approbation_n of_o other_o it_o may_v be_v even_o of_o the_o best_a or_o when_o they_o have_v be_v help_v to_o do_v some_o extraordinary_a thing_n as_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n some_o professor_n be_v help_v as_o god_n instrument_n to_o cast_v out_o devil_n to_o speak_v with_o tongue_n etc._n etc._n who_o yet_o be_v not_o sound_v at_o the_o heart_n it_o be_v on_o this_o ground_n that_o christ_n go_v when_o he_o say_v luke_n 13._o 27._o and_o matth._n 7._o 22_o 23._o many_o shall_v come_v to_o i_o in_o that_o day_n say_v lord_n we_o have_v prophesy_v in_o thy_o name_n and_o in_o thy_o name_n have_v cast_v out_o devil_n and_o do_v many_o wonderful_a work_n all_o which_o be_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v but_o common_a gift_n though_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o extraordinary_a and_o when_o man_n come_v to_o have_v any_o measure_n of_o these_o beyond_o other_o they_o will_v not_o be_v beat_v from_o it_o but_o will_v go_v to_o death_n with_o it_o that_o all_o be_v right_a with_o they_o the_o 3d._n rise_v be_v from_o some_o suppose_a spiritual_a sense_n and_o comfort_n and_o from_o some_o flash_n of_o joy_n these_o temporary_a believer_n speak_v of_o matth._n 13._o and_o heb._n 6._o 4_o 5._o attain_v to_o some_o taste_n of_o the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o come_v such_o as_o once_o come_v this_o length_n do_v what_o they_o will_v and_o live_v as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o as_o it_o be_v always_o sound_v in_o their_o ear_n nor_o suffer_v they_o it_o to_o go_v out_o of_o their_o head_n that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o day_n they_o meet_v with_o god_n and_o that_o he_o speak_v peace_n to_o they_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v persuade_v that_o matter_n be_v right_a betwixt_o he_o and_o they_o and_o yet_o all_o this_o while_n they_o may_v be_v unsound_a at_o the_o heart_n the_o four_o rise_v be_v from_o folk_n habituate_n themselves_o to_o speak_v good_a to_o themselves_o and_o from_o maintain_v their_o presumption_n and_o dull_v and_o deadn_v their_o own_o conscience_n whereupon_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n conscience_n become_v a_o plague_n to_o they_o so_o that_o they_o will_v dispute_v and_o debate_n with_o and_o against_o any_o minister_n neighbour_n or_o friend_n that_o will_v convince_v they_o of_o the_o evil_a and_o danger_n of_o their_o state_n and_o condition_n and_o the_o heart_n be_v by_o they_o thus_o deceive_v speak_v and_o plead_v for_o they_o and_o deceive_v they_o back_o again_o they_o be_v honest_a ●olks_n and_o be_v never_o hear_v with_o their_o neighbour_n none_o have_v any_o thing_n amiss_o to_o say_v of_o they_o and_o their_o own_o conscience_n justify_v they_o and_o what_o shall_v more_o thus_o have_v put_v out_o their_o light_n and_o blind_v their_o own_o eye_n they_o have_v constrain_v and_o some_o way_n necessitate_v their_o conscience_n to_o cheat_v deceive_v and_o beguile_v they_o such_o as_o these_o be_v speak_v of_o isa._n 44_o 20._o he_o feed_v on_o ash_n a_o deceive_a heart_n have_v turn_v he_o aside_o that_o he_o can_v deliver_v his_o soul_n nor_o say_v be_v there_o not_o a_o lie_n in_o my_o right_a hand_n the_o heart_n be_v ordinary_o take_v as_o be_v hint_v before_o for_o the_o conscience_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n according_o job_n say_v his_o heart_n shall_v not_o smite_v he_o while_o he_o live_v and_o it_o be_v say_v david_n heart_n smite_v he_o now_o such_o a_o man_n as_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o his_o deceive_a
heart_n or_o delude_v conscience_n turn_v he_o aside_o so_o that_o he_o can_v deliver_v his_o soul_n that_o be_v he_o can_v wind_v and_o extricat_fw-la himself_o out_o of_o that_o thicket_n of_o self_n deceit_n so_o far_o as_o to_o bespeak_v himself_o thus_o be_v it_o not_o a_o lie_n that_o i_o be_o lipn_v and_o trust_v to_o and_o yet_o this_o be_v it_o that_o many_o of_o you_o have_v for_o a_o good_a conscience_n even_o a_o deceive_a heart_n or_o a_o delude_a conscience_n speak_v to_o you_o who_o will_v or_o what_o we_o can_v it_o be_v in_o some_o respect_n impossible_a to_o put_v you_o off_o that_o ●ancie_n and_o to_o awake_v you_o out_o of_o that_o dream_n that_o you_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o delusion_n be_v that_o man_n take_v not_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o sentence_n of_o conscience_n from_o god_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n but_o from_o their_o own_o mislead_a reason_n or_o from_o some_o common_a gift_n or_o from_o some_o piece_n of_o sense_n or_o some_o opinion_n and_o fancy_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o be_v in_o some_o sort_n deceive_v by_o they_o and_o deceive_v they_o now_o all_o these_o delusion_n may_v be_v in_o these_o three_o respect_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o thing_n doctrinal_a a_o man_n may_v be_v persuade_v that_o truth_n be_v a_o error_n and_o a_o error_n be_v a_o truth_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o matter_n of_o practice_n a_o man_n may_v take_v a_o evil_n turn_v or_o action_n for_o a_o good_a one_o and_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v so_o as_o the_o jew_n have_v in_o kill_v the_o apostle_n who_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n as_o the_o lord_n foretell_v john_n 16._o v_o 2._o and_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n who_o think_v he_o be_v in_o friendship_n with_o god_n when_o indeed_o he_o be_v not_o because_o he_o draw_v his_o conclusion_n from_o wrong_a premise_n either_o fail_v in_o the_o major_a proposition_n lay_v down_o a_o wrong_a rule_n or_o in_o the_o minor_a proposition_n apply_v the_o rule_n to_o himself_o partial_o these_o thing_n you_o shall_v take_v along_o with_o you_o in_o what_o we_o be_v to_o say_v further_o on_o this_o point_n now_o for_o the_o mark_n and_o evidence_n of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n beside_o these_o forementioned_a of_o a_o legal_a and_o of_o a_o presumptuous_a conscience_n which_o may_v be_v also_o mark_v of_o this_o it_o have_v these_o four_o or_o five_o especial_o accompany_v it_o 1._o a_o certain_a frothiness_n of_o spirit_n or_o a_o light_n unsettle_a frame_n the_o light_n that_o a_o delude_a man_n have_v in_o his_o state_n or_o way_n be_v but_o like_o a_o dream_n that_o have_v no_o reality_n in_o it_o he_o feed_v on_o ash_n and_o such_o a_o one_o will_v some_o way_n make_v more_o conscience_n of_o and_o take_v more_o pleasure_n in_o that_o wherein_o he_o be_v delude_v then_o in_o any_o other_o p●ece_n or_o practice_n of_o religion_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o jew_n in_o persecute_v the_o apostle_n and_o with_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n in_o seek_v to_o gain_v a_o prosylite_n and_o yet_o in_o all_o that_o they_o do_v they_o be_v but_o lick_v froth_n or_o s●um_n ephraim_n feed_v on_o wind_n hos._n 12._o 1._o what_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n they_o have_v about_o religion_n be_v without_o any_o sanctify_a effect_n it_o strick_v not_o at_o the_o body_n of_o death_n nor_o do_v it_o promove_v godliness_n it_o be_v ready_o some_o frivolous_a thing_n that_o they_o be_v so_o much_o take_v up_o with_o and_o be_v so_o eager_a in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o which_o prove_v but_o wind_n and_o ash_n to_o who_o it_o may_v be_v in_o some_o respect_n say_v as_o the_o apostle_n do_v to_o the_o galatian_n chap._n 3._o 3_o you_o begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n and_o seek_v to_o be_v make_v perfect_a in_o the_o flesh_n a_o second_o mark_n of_o this_o be_v there_o be_v always_o in_o such_o a_o conscience_n a_o un-distinctness_a as_o to_o the_o ground_n whence_o the_o man_n consolation_n flow_v or_o there_o be_v much_o more_o suppose_a peace_n comfort_n joy_n and_o satisfaction_n than_o he_o can_v give_v any_o solid_a reason_n for_o and_o they_o be_v huge_o disproportion_v to_o the_o foundation_n they_o be_v build_v upon_o ask_v a_o hypocrite_n what_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o so_o firm_a persuasion_n and_o of_o the_o comfort_n and_o joy_n result_v there_o from_o he_o will_v ready_o answer_v i_o think_v it_o be_v so_o or_o i_o hope_v it_o be_v so_o or_o if_o he_o come_v to_o be_v somewhat_o more_o particular_a in_o the_o account_n he_o give_v it_o will_v very_o ready_o be_v to_o this_o or_o some_o such_o purpose_n god_n have_v be_v very_o good_a and_o kind_a to_o i_o in_o such_o and_o such_o providence_n he_o have_v bestow_v on_o i_o such_o and_o such_o gift_n and_o benefit_n which_o yet_o be_v but_o thing_n external_a and_o common_a or_o he_o will_v it_o may_v be_v say_v i_o pray_v to_o god_n in_o such_o and_o such_o a_o strait_a and_o he_o hear_v and_o deliver_v i_o and_o i_o take_v that_o for_o a_o earnest_n that_o he_o will_v hear_v i_o also_o for_o heaven_n and_o eternal_a life_n as_o if_o ahab'_v deliverance_n from_o a_o temporary_a judgement_n on_o his_o humiliation_n have_v be_v to_o he_o indeed_o the_o earnest_n of_o heaven_n or_o it_o may_v be_v he_o will_v further_o say_v god_n have_v keep_v i_o from_o many_o sin_n and_o bestow_v many_o blessing_n on_o i_o which_o he_o may_v do_v unto_o and_o often_o do_v to_o mere_a natural_a man_n and_o therefore_o he_o will_v be_v merciful_a to_o i_o such_o conclusion_n be_v broad_a than_o the_o premise_n and_o the_o superstructure_n than_o the_o foundation_n and_o yet_o alace_o the_o persuasion_n of_o many_o be_v build_v upon_o such_o sandy_a foundation_n and_o be_v therefore_o but_o a_o delusion_n since_o it_o have_v no_o solid_a bottom_n thus_o some_o who_o be_v carry_v away_o with_o a_o error_n will_v say_v they_o can_v defend_v nor_o debate_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o they_o be_v persuade_v of_o it_o as_o if_o a_o well_o ground_a persuasion_n can_v be_v without_o all_o reason_n a_o three_o character_n be_v that_o a_o delude_a conscience_n can_v never_o abide_v or_o endure_v to_o be_v contradict_v or_o put_v to_o a_o trial_n if_o any_o man_n shall_v say_v to_o such_o a_o person_n that_o he_o or_o she_o be_v delude_v they_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o hate_v he_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o delude_a galatian_n to_o who_o the_o apostle_n be_v constrain_v to_o say_v cap._n 4._o v._n 16._o be_o i_o therefore_o become_v your_o enemy_n because_o i_o tell_v you_o the_o truth_n they_o will_v ready_o cast_v out_o with_o their_o great_a and_o best_a friend_n and_o with_o the_o man_n they_o be_v wont_a to_o love_v most_o when_o they_o gainsay_v they_o in_o their_o delusion_n as_o paul_n say_v in_o the_o forecited_a place_n i_o bear_v you_o record_v that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v possible_a you_o will_v once_o have_v pluck_v out_o your_o own_o eye_n and_o give_v they_o to_o i_o and_o be_o i_o now_o become_v your_o enemy_n because_o i_o tell_v you_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v a_o evil_a token_n when_o a_o man_n now_o hate_v another_o who_o he_o love_v before_o and_o on_o no_o other_o ground_n and_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o because_o he_o contradict_v he_o in_o that_o particular_a wherein_o he_o be_v mistake_v a_o four_o character_n be_v which_o be_v of_o some_o affinity_n to_o the_o 2d_o that_o as_o a_o delude_a conscience_n be_v frothy_a in_o its_o comfort_n so_o it_o turn_v a_o man_n forthie_a in_o his_o practice_n he_o be_v much_o more_o concern_v and_o zealous_a in_o small_a and_o minute_n thing_n than_o in_o those_o of_o far_o great_a moment_n as_o the_o apostle_n insinuate_v the_o galatian_n be_v where_o he_o say_v to_o they_o chap._n 3._o v._n 3._o be_v you_o so_o foolish_a that_o have_v begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n you_o be_v now_o make_v perfect_a by_o the_o flesh_n he_o strain_v at_o a_o guat_a and_o swallow_v a_o camel_n and_o be_v not_o so_o much_o take_v up_o with_o the_o whole_a of_o religion_n as_o he_o be_v with_o that_o particular_a thing_n wherein_o he_o be_v delude_v he_o have_v more_o love_n unto_o and_o sympathy_n with_o these_o that_o be_v of_o his_o judgement_n and_o opinion_n in_o that_o particular_a then_o with_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n that_o be_v sound_a and_o right_a the_o galatian_n can_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o paul_n have_v more_o grace_n than_o many_o or_o all_o of_o these_o teacher_n that_o court_v and_o woo_v they_o so_o much_o into_o that_o error_n and_o yet_o they_o cool_v in_o their_o affection_n to_o he_o
and_o be_v fond_a on_o they_o a_o 5_o character_n be_v that_o a_o delude_a conscience_n i●_n ordinary_o bitter_a and_o cruel_a in_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v proud_a and_o vain_a so_o it_o will_v persecute_v to_o the_o death_n they_o it_o differ_v from_o hence_o be_v the_o persecution_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o of_o paul_n especial_o and_o we_o have_v see_v it_o in_o poor_a delude_a soul_n who_o have_v think_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o slay_v all_o that_o be_v against_o they_o or_o differ_v from_o they_o in_o these_o their_o delusion_n some_o what_o of_o this_o bitterspirit_n accompany_v the_o delusion_n of_o the_o galatian_n therefore_o the_o apostle_n say_v to_o they_o chap._n 5._o 15._o if_o you_o bite_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n and_o james_n speak_v to_o the_o same_o purpose_n of_o such_o person_n chap._n 3._o 14._o if_o you_o have_v bitter_a envy_v and_o strife_n in_o your_o heart_n glory_v not_o and_o lie_v not_o against_o the_o truth_n this_o wisdom_n descend_v not_o from_o above_o bitter_a zeal_n and_o strife_n be_v a_o evil_a token_n and_o a_o bitter_a conscience_n be_v ready_o no_o good_a conscience_n when_o a_o man_n suppose_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o the_o right_n be_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o spirit_n of_o bitterness_n though_o in_o other_o case_n bitterness_n through_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n may_v kith_v yet_o it_o be_v native_a to_o delusion_n it_o flow_v from_o pride_n in_o such_o person_n exalt_v themselves_o above_o all_o other_o therefore_o as_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v delude_v &_o go_v wrong_a they_o must_v have_v a_o church_n by_o themselves_o and_o will_v join_v with_o no_o other_o person_n in_o christian_a communion_n but_o such_o as_o be_v of_o their_o mistake_a opinion_n but_o a_o three_o question_n arise_v here_o on_o occasion_n of_o the_o former_a viz._n whether_o believer_n in_o christ_n need_v to_o be_v afraid_a of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n and_o whether_o they_o may_v not_o be_v persuade_v and_o that_o with_o a_o sort_n of_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n that_o they_o be_v right_a when_o yet_o they_o be_v wrong_v the_o latter_a branch_n of_o the_o question_n necessary_o suppose_v the_o former_a which_o need_v not_o therefore_o to_o be_v particular_o speak_v to_o we_o answer_v with_o a_o distinction_n that_o a_o believer_n may_v be_v mistake_v and_o delude_v in_o a_o particular_a but_o can_v be_v delude_v as_o to_o his_o gracious_a state_n because_o be_v indeed_o a_o believer_n it_o be_v a_o most_o true_a and_o certain_a conclusion_n which_o he_o draw_v concern_v his_o be_v in_o a_o gracious_a state_n though_o possible_o as_o to_o some_o of_o the_o ground_n whence_o he_o deduce_v it_o he_o may_v be_v mistake_v or_o he_o may_v draw_v it_o from_o wrong_a ground_n yet_o i_o say_v in_o some_o particular_n he_o may_v be_v delude_v as_o in_o take_v such_o or_o such_o a_o error_n to_o be_v a_o truth_n and_o so_o the_o first_o three_o ground_n and_o rise_v of_o a_o delude_a conscience_n which_o we_o form_n er_o assign_v may_v agree_v to_o he_o as_o he_o may_v lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o carnal_a reason_n and_o on_o common_a gift_n as_o some_o of_o the_o galaians_n do_v and_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v in_o hazard_n to_o do_v and_o therefore_o our_o lord_n say_v to_o they_o luke_o 10._o 20._o rejoice_v not_o in_o this_o that_o the_o spirit_n be_v subject_a to_o you_o but_o that_o your_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n he_o may_v also_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o sense_n or_o comfort_n and_o the_o reason_n may_v be_v because_o when_o god_n gracious_o condescend_v to_o give_v they_o now_o and_o then_o some_o proof_n that_o he_o love_v they_o they_o be_v in_o so_o far_o desert_v draw_v a_o conclusion_n quite_o cross_a to_o the_o design_n and_o end_n of_o that_o manifestation_n as_o if_o he_o approve_v they_o in_o that_o particular_a wherein_o they_o be_v mistake_v for_o as_o a_o believer_n when_o he_o be_v right_o may_v think_v himself_o to_o be_v wrong_n because_o of_o the_o want_n of_o sense_n so_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o contrary_n he_o may_v think_v himself_o to_o be_v right_a because_o he_o have_v much_o sense_n when_o yet_o he_o may_v be_v wrong_a i_o shall_v for_o further_a clear_v instance_n it_o in_o five_o or_o six_o case_n as_o 1._o when_o a_o believer_n have_v be_v in_o some_o tender_a frame_n pray_v to_o god_n sincere_o and_o have_v get_v a_o hear_n and_o when_o some_o smile_a providence_n meet_v he_o and_o invit_v he_o to_o side_n with_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n he_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o god_n call_v he_o to_o that_o thing_n or_o it_o may_v be_v the_o christian_n after_o prayer_n meet_v with_o a_o scripture_n that_o hold_v out_o that_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v be_v pray_v for_o whence_o he_o rash_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o will_v obtain_v it_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o therein_o he_o walk_v according_a to_o reason_n if_o the_o thing_n look_v rational_a like_o to_o he_o and_o suit_v the_o matter_n of_o his_o prayer_n we_o may_v see_v something_o of_o this_o or_o very_o like_v it_o in_o samuel_n if_o we_o compare_v the_o 15._o and_o 16._o chapter_n of_o the_o first_o book_n of_o samuel_n together_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o 15._o chapter_n he_o have_v very_o probable_o be_v pray_v when_o he_o mourn_v and_o chap._n 16._o v._n 1._o he_o be_v send_v by_o god_n to_o bethlehem_n to_o anoint_v one_o of_o jesses_n son_n to_o be_v king_n and_o when_o vers_n 6._o he_o look_v on_o eliah_n he_o present_o and_o somewhat_o rash_o yet_o very_o confident_o say_v sure_o the_o lord_n anointed_n be_v before_o he_o he_o have_v be_v pray_v and_o the_o thing_n look_v so_o rational_a and_o purpose-like_a be_v persuade_v that_o he_o be_v right_a but_o the_o lord_n reprove_v he_o and_o say_v to_o he_o look_v not_o on_o his_o countenance_n nor_o on_o the_o height_n of_o his_o stature_n because_o i_o have_v refuse_v he_o for_o the_o lord_n see_v not_o ●s_a man_n see_v for_o man_n look_v on_o the_o outward_a appearance_n but_o the_o lord_n look_v on_o the_o heart_n how_o o●t_n may_v a_o tryst_n of_o providence_n be_v mistake_v i_o be_v in_o prayer_n and_o such_o a_o word_n meet_v i_o and_o such_o a_o providence_n occur_v to_o i_o and_o do_v cast_v the_o balance_n a_o ●_o d._n case_n be_v when_o a_o thing_n represent_v itself_o to_o the_o believer_n not_o only_o as_o lawful_a and_o honest_a but_o as_o conduce_v much_o to_o god_n glory_n and_o to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o work_n and_o he_o mean_v well_o in_o it_o how_o ready_a be_v he_o hence_o to_o conclude_v that_o he_o be_v certain_o call_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o we_o may_v see_v something_o of_o this_o in_o david_n who_o 2_o sam._n 7._o 1_o 2_o 3_o and_o 4._o have_v a_o purpose_n to_o build_v a_o house_n to_o god_n propose_v the_o matter_n to_o nathan_n the_o prophet_n who_o without_o consult_v god_n off-hand_n say_v to_o he_o go_v do_v all_o that_o be_v in_o thy_o heart_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o thou_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o though_o god_n love_v the_o thing_n and_o approve_v of_o it_o in_o its_o self_n as_o a_o duty_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o god_n mind_n that_o david_n shall_v perform_v it_o nor_o that_o nathan_n shall_v have_v so_o positive_o encourage_v he_o to_o it_o hence_o when_o a_o thing_n consider_v in_o itself_o be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o may_v be_v for_o his_o honour_n some_o good_a people_n may_v think_v it_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n who_o yet_o god_n never_o call_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o aim_v to_o be_v a_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o good_a thing_n in_o itself_o and_o one_o may_v have_v a_o sort_n of_o impulse_n to_o it_o who_o yet_o may_v not_o be_v call_v to_o it_o a_o 3d._a case_n be_v when_o believer_n inclination_n and_o affection_n be_v exceed_v much_o towards_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n very_o ready_o therefrom_o they_o will_v come_v to_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n in_o their_o conscience_n anent_o that_o thing_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o they_o love_v one_o sort_n of_o life_n beyond_o another_o which_o be_v not_o simple_o unlawful_a or_o one_o child_n beyond_o another_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o isaac_n his_o strong_a inclination_n to_o bless_v esau_n gen._n 27._o we_o conceive_v the_o good_a man_n go_v not_o against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n in_o the_o matter_n but_o he_o love_v he_o excessive_o which_o make_v he_o take_v the_o less_o heed_n to_o what_o otherways_o god_n promise_n and_o way_n of_o deal_n with_o his_o son_n
who_o be_v speak_v of_o jer._n 2._o v._n 35._o because_o i_o be_o innocent_a sure_o his_o anger_n be_v turn_v away_o from_o i_o only_o here_o take_v two_o or_o three_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o persuasion_n that_o be_v in_o believer_n and_o these_o that_o be_v in_o hypocrite_n when_o they_o go_v wrong_v 1._o in_o a_o believer_n it_o be_v in_o some_o particular_a and_o not_o as_o to_o their_o state_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o hypocrite_n persuasion_n 2._o it_o be_v in_o some_o accidental_a or_o accessary_a thing_n and_o not_o in_o fundamental_a truth_n 3_o it_o be_v ready_o and_o more_o ordinary_o in_o some_o thing_n not_o simple_o and_o in_o itself_o evil_a but_o in_o something_o only_o that_o they_o be_v not_o call_v to_o of_o god_n though_o good_a in_o itself_o in_o these_o most_o ready_o and_o ordinary_o as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v they_o may_v go_v wrong_a and_o stray_v but_o yet_o they_o may_v do_v so_o even_o in_o some_o other_o thing_n at_o fit_n or_o under_o some_o violent_a tentation_n we_o shall_v close_v up_o all_o at_o this_o time_n with_o these_o four_o or_o five_o word_n of_o direction_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v that_o which_o we_o hint_v at_o before_o that_o believer_n will_v walk_v soft_o humble_o and_o in_o fear_n and_o not_o be_v too_o confident_a of_o themselves_o or_o of_o their_o own_o strength_n for_o though_o they_o may_v warrantable_o be_v humble_o confident_a that_o they_o shall_v be_v carry_v through_o without_o at_o least_o final_a err_a in_o any_o fundamental_a truth_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n yet_o they_o may_v slide_v in_o a_o particular_a practice_n or_o in_o a_o point_n of_o truth_n in_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v to_o say_v so_o accessary_a and_o not_o absolute_o necessary_a and_o therefore_o they_o shall_v walk_v in_o fear_n and_o be_v war_n of_o a_o despise_n censure_a and_o condemn_a humour_n that_o use_v to_o go_v along_o with_o they_o who_o think_v themselves_o to_o be_v right_a and_o other_o to_o be_v wrong_n as_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n be_v rom._n 14._o 3._o 2_o dly_a believer_n have_v not_o need_v to_o be_v rash_a or_o hasty_a in_o any_o thing_n since_o much_o of_o their_o err_a whether_o in_o opinion_n or_o practice_n flow_v from_o their_o haste_n and_o suddenness_n in_o draw_v conclusion_n whereas_o if_o they_o patient_o wait_v on_o god_n and_o consider_v calm_o and_o at_o leisure_n they_o may_v get_v another_o answer_n but_o we_o often_o lie_v down_o our_o conclusion_n and_o then_o begin_v to_o try_v which_o be_v a_o very_a preposterous_a course_n whereas_o we_o shall_v first_o try_v and_o then_o conclude_v 3_o believer_n shall_v be_v exceed_o serious_a not_o only_o in_o try_v the_o thing_n but_o in_o try_v their_o singleness_n in_o it_o consider_v that_o oftentimes_o there_o be_v somewhat_o beside_o awe_n of_o conscience_n that_o sway_v they_o in_o such_o and_o such_o a_o particular_a if_o they_o can_v discern_v it_o such_o as_o interest_n affection_n or_o the_o like_a 4thly_a they_o will_v also_o careful_o observe_v and_o beware_v of_o the_o bitter_a fruit_n that_o accompany_v delusion_n in_o other_o which_o though_o they_o come_v not_o to_o that_o hight_v yet_o may_v come_v to_o a_o considerable_a height_n even_o in_o they_o such_o as_o be_v severe_a censure_v and_o judge_v of_o other_o bitterness_n frothiness_n etc._n etc._n 5thly_a and_o in_o a_o word_n they_o have_v need_n to_o lippen_n and_o trust_n to_o god_n more_o than_o to_o themselves_o according_a to_o that_o notable_a exhortation_n prov._n 3._o 5_o trust_v in_o the_o lord_n with_o all_o thy_o heart_n and_o lean_v not_o unto_o thy_o own_o understanding_n in_o all_o thy_o way_n acknowledge_v he_o and_o he_o shall_v direct_v thy_o path_n that_o other_o word_n which_o we_o have_v prov._n 28._o v_o 26._o will_v also_o be_v consider_v and_o serious_o ponder_v he_o that_o trust_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n be_v a_o fool_n but_o who_o so_o walk_v wise_o shall_v be_v deliver_v let_v all_o learn_v to_o be_v humble_a tender_a and_o sober_a and_o god_n bless_v what_o have_v be_v say_v for_o this_o end_n sermon_n v._n act_n 24._o 16._o and_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n there_o be_v no_o truth_n that_o will_v be_v more_o ready_o grant_v then_o this_o which_o we_o propose_v from_o these_o word_n namely_o that_o all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o believer_n ought_v so_o to_o live_v and_o walk_v as_o in_o nothing_o to_o give_v their_o conscience_n cause_n of_o offence_n and_o yet_o if_o we_o shall_v impartial_o put_v the_o matter_n to_o trial_n there_o be_v ground_n to_o fear_v that_o the_o life_n of_o many_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v nothing_o else_o then_o a_o continue_a lie_n and_o practical_a contradiction_n to_o the_o profession_n of_o this_o great_a truth_n because_o this_o be_v as_o we_o say_v so_o tender_a and_o tickle_v a_o subject_n and_o because_o there_o be_v so_o great_a need_n to_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o true_a meaning_n of_o it_o we_o have_v be_v constrain_v beyond_o our_o purpose_n to_o propose_v and_o answer_v several_a question_n and_o to_o move_v and_o dissolve_v several_a doubt_n concern_v it_o to_o make_v the_o fair_a and_o easy_a access_n to_o the_o use_n it_o be_v so_o very_o ordinary_a for_o people_n to_o think_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n when_o indeed_o they_o have_v it_o not_o and_o so_o to_o baffle_v to_o speak_v so_o and_o abuse_v conscience_n that_o shall_v be_v the_o most_o powerful_a provoker_n to_o a_o tender_a and_o circumspect_a walk_n as_o to_o make_v it_o a_o ground_n of_o security_n and_o untenderness_n we_o speak_v a_o little_a the_o last_o occasion_n to_o that_o question_n whether_o not_o only_o unregenerat_a man_n may_v think_v that_o to_o be_v conscience_n which_o be_v not_o but_o also_o whether_o it_o be_v incident_a even_o to_o believer_n themselves_o to_o think_v and_o that_o with_o some_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n i_o will_v not_o say_v with_o such_o grossness_n of_o delusion_n as_o may_v be_v in_o other_o that_o they_o be_v right_a when_o yet_o they_o be_v wrong_v in_o answer_n to_o which_o we_o show_v you_o they_o may_v and_o instance_a several_a case_n wherein_o now_o though_o the_o last_o branch_n of_o the_o question_n have_v its_o own_o great_a difficulty_n to_o conceive_v of_o it_o a_o right_a yet_o since_o it_o be_v ●or_a our_o edification_n fo●_n if_o believer_n may_v mistake_v much_o more_o may_v other_o and_o since_o it_o will_v make_v way_n for_o confirm_v a_o subsequent_a doctrine_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o difficult_a exercise_v and_o up-taking_a thing_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o since_o also_o it_o have_v very_o great_a influence_n upon_o and_o be_v very_o useful_a to_o our_o whole_a life_n it_o be_v withal_o the_o main_a scope_n of_o the_o text_n to_o press_v the_o keep_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o sum_n and_o substance_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n to_o do_v so_o we_o shall_v yet_o proceed_v therein_o a_o little_a further_o and_o it_o will_v not_o we_o hope_v be_v find_v to_o be_v a_o impertinent_a or_o wide_a digression_n sober_o to_o do_v so_o that_o than_o which_o we_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o and_o will_v now_o further_o prosecute_v be_v that_o believer_n though_o not_o in_o reference_n to_o their_o state_n yet_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n for_o both_o in_o think_v that_o to_o be_v truth_n which_o be_v not_o truth_n and_o that_o to_o be_v duty_n which_o be_v not_o duty_n conscience_n act_v as_o the_o judgement_n be_v inform_v may_v err_v and_o go_v wrong_n in_o prosecute_a of_o this_o we_o shall_v first_o confirm_v it_o from_o some_o instance_n 2_o we_o shall_v touch_v on_o some_o aggravation_n or_o aggravate_v circumstance_n of_o the_o thing_n though_o not_o so_o much_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o it_o which_o will_v make_v it_o the_o more_o wonderful_a 3_o we_o shall_v give_v some_o reason_n of_o it_o 4thly_a we_o shall_v speak_v a_o word_n or_o two_o to_o the_o use_v of_o it_o for_o the_o 1._o that_o believer_n may_v thus_o go_v wrong_n we_o shall_v confirm_v it_o from_o 4._o instance_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v that_o frequent_a and_o famous_a instance_n of_o bigamy_n and_o polygamy_n or_o marry_v of_o two_o or_o of_o more_o wife_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n among_o the_o father_n and_o saint_n we_o be_v far_o from_o aggredge_v their_o fail_n in_o this_o and_o from_o make_v it_o in_o they_o so_o very_o odious_a yea_o we_o think_v it_o may_v be_v in_o some_o respect_n just_o extenuate_v and_o far_o remove_v from_o that_o degree_n of_o sinfulness_n that_o it_o will_v be_v among_o we_o and_o may_v possible_o in_o some_o case_n have_v a_o dispensation_n
up_o to_o strong_a delusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o love_n why_o may_v it_o not_o also_o be_v just_a with_o he_o judicial_o to_o harden_v they_o in_o their_o unjust_a prejudice_n who_o without_o all_o reason_n take_v up_o and_o entertain_v the_o same_o against_o godliness_n and_o the_o godly_a by_o suffer_v some_o of_o they_o to_o slide_v sometime_o into_o error_n and_o mistake_n by_o which_o they_o come_v in_o his_o righteous_a judgement_n to_o be_v so_o ●ar_o plague_v as_o to_o think_v that_o now_o they_o have_v reason_n for_o their_o prejudice_n and_o i●_n may_v be_v to_o say_v we_o think_v they_o always_o to_o be_v such_o and_o such_o person_n and_o now_o we_o see_v and_o find_v they_o to_o be_v so_o who_o 〈◊〉_d more_o weight_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o then_o on_o his_o word_n and_o who_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o cry_v more_o out_o against_o a_o infirmity_n in_o a_o godly_a person_n then_o in_o other_o and_o more_o than_o they_o can_v be_v prevail_v with_o to_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o their_o grace_n how_o many_o a_o corrupt_a and_o wicked_a man_n have_v justify_v and_o maintain_v his_o own_o bad_a practice_n from_o some_o fail_n in_o the_o saint_n not_o to_o excuse_v their_o sin_n but_o rather_o thereby_o to_o blind_v himself_o and_o to_o put_v out_o his_o own_o eye_n more_o in_o the_o four_o place_n according_a to_o the_o method_n propose_v take_v a_o word_n or_o two_o of_o use_n and_o 1._o may_v not_o this_o instruct_v we_o that_o all_o flesh_n be_v grass_n that_o when_o we_o look_v to_o ourselves_o we_o shall_v be_v humble_a and_o that_o there_o be_v need_n great_a need_n of_o fear_n and_o tremble_a in_o our_o christian_a walk_n whoever_o they_o be_v that_o dare_v to_o abuse_v this_o doctrine_n anent_o the_o saint_n infirmity_n mistake_n and_o error_n to_o foster_v themselves_o the_o more_o secure_o in_o their_o liberty_n of_o sin_v god_n shall_v if_o continue_v in_o one_o day_n make_v it_o turn_v to_o the_o aggravation_n of_o their_o guilt_n and_o to_o the_o heighten_v of_o their_o judgement_n and_o however_o for_o the_o time_n they_o heighten_v their_o sin_n exceed_o in_o propose_v the_o saint_n fault_n to_o follow_v they_o and_o not_o their_o grace_n and_o virtue_n whereas_o this_o be_v the_o genuine_a and_o kind_o use_v that_o all_o shall_v make_v of_o they_o to_o be_v watchful_a to_o walk_v in_o ●ear_n a●d_v to_o take_v heed_n lest_o we_o also_o fall_v consider_v that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v do_v ●o_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n what_o may_v we_o fear_v who_o in_o comparison_n be_v but_o dry_a tree_n if_o the_o lord_n shall_v leave_v we_o as_o just_o he_o may_v to_o follow_v our_o own_o council_n it_o will_v become_v we_o to_o wonder_v that_o we_o go_v not_o wrong_a and_o further_o wrong_v and_o to_o look_v well_o that_o we_o be_v not_o vain_a of_o our_o own_o stand_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o take_v every_o thing_n to_o be_v right_a where_o of_o for_o the_o time_n we_o may_v have_v a_o sor●_n of_o persuasion_n neither_o that_o which_o many_o good_a people_n may_v think_v to_o be_v right_a god_n have_v give_v we_o another_o rule_n that_o shall_v be_v look_v to_o and_o walk_v by_o as_o sovereign_a ●nd_n infallible_o regulate_v according_a to_o which_o we_o shall_v regulate_v our_o own_o and_o the_o conscience_n and_o practice_n of_o other_o therefore_o 3_o learn_v hence_o so_o much_o the_o more_o accurat_o and_o exact_o to_o put_v every_o thing_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n that_o we_o may_v see_v whither_o it_o be_v so_o in_o very_a deed_n as_o conscience_n dictate_v by_o all_o mean_n let_v conscience_n be_v lay_v to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n let_v we_o betake_v ourselves_o and_o our_o conscience_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n and_o if_o it_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o these_o it_o be_v because_o there_o be_v no_o light_n in_o it_o at_o least_o in_o so_o far_o and_o if_o even_a believer_n may_v thus_o err_v and_o mistake_v o_o how_o much_o more_o and_o more_o sad_o may_v other_o who_o sleep_v on_o in_o their_o security_n without_o fear_n of_o be_v mistake_v and_o of_o go_v wrong_n in_o matter_n of_o great_a and_o most_o last_a moment_n let_v be_v in_o lesser_a one_o put_v nothing_o serious_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o will_v yet_o notwithstanding_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o four_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v believer_n and_o all_o of_o you_o that_o you_o have_v need_n to_o walk_v near_o god_n and_o in_o close_o and_o constant_a dependence_n on_o he_o not_o simple_o lipn_v or_o trust_v to_o your_o own_o council_n or_o conscience_n but_o to_o he_o for_o direction_n and_o guide_n the_o 5_o use_v serve_v to_o exhort_v believer_n to_o be_v very_o thankful_a and_o to_o take_v it_o for_o a_o great_a and_o singular_a mercy_n when_o their_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o for_o sin_n and_o strike_v in_o close_o with_o that_o which_o be_v the_o spirit_n work_v john_n 16._o 8._o i_o will_v say_v christ_n send_v the_o spirit_n and_o he_o shall_v convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n o_o but_o be_v it_o a_o merciful_a profitable_a and_o comfortable_a thing_n when_o god_n help_v you_o impartial_o to_o search_v out_o sin_n to_o hear_v the_o conscience_n it_o be_v impartial_a verdict_n of_o it_o and_o to_o be_v kind_o and_o deep_o humble_v for_o it_o and_o to_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o use_n 6_o see_v here_o the_o necessity_n of_o know_v god_n mind_n better_o and_o of_o understand_v his_o word_n better_o otherwise_o we_o may_v err_v and_o go_v wrong_n and_o not_o know_v it_o let_v i_o say_v in_o a_o word_n that_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o reach_v and_o attain_v the_o scope_n of_o this_o text_n if_o we_o study_v not_o to_o know_v god_n word_n and_o his_o mind_n in_o his_o word_n better_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v among_o we_o may_v prove_v a_o great_a rise_n occasion_n and_o cause_n of_o many_o sad_a mistake_n and_o error_n if_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n prevent_v not_o let_v god_n bless_v this_o word_n and_o make_v it_o to_o have_v it_o be_v own_o use_n for_o our_o edification_n and_o warning_n sermon_n vi._n act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n the_o great_a scope_n of_o these_o word_n be_v to_o point_v out_o that_o holy_a precisness_n accuracy_n and_o circumspection_n which_o be_v in_o paul_n walk_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v in_o the_o walk_n of_o all_o christian_n and_o that_o be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o men._n the_o doctrine_n that_o we_o insist_v on_o last_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v to_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v that_o in_o nothing_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o they_o and_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o use_n we_o propose_v four_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v for_o information_n and_o direction_n how_o to_o carry_v in_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o it_o be_v in_o a_o word_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o we_o may_v thwart_v our_o conscience_n either_o in_o ommit_v any_o duty_n or_o in_o commit_v any_o sin_n the_o second_o use_v be_v for_o trial_n as_o the_o word_n bear_v out_o paul_n attainment_n and_o his_o comfort_a himself_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o he_o always_o exercise_v himself_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n whence_o we_o show_v that_o it_o be_v a_o good_a mark_n of_o sincerity_n when_o a_o man_n be_v take_v up_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o several_a doubt_n and_o question_n be_v occasion_v in_o prosecute_a of_o this_o use_n which_o we_o endeavour_v to_o clear_v and_o answer_v but_o because_o we_o see_v that_o such_o question_n be_v almost_o endless_a and_o know_v not_o if_o it_o will_v be_v to_o your_o edification_n to_o propose_v more_o of_o they_o we_o have_v resolve_v to_o break_v they_o off_o abrupt_o and_o shall_v only_o speak_v somewhat_o in_o answer_n to_o a_o objection_n or_o question_v which_o can_v well_o be_v pass_v by_o and_o it_o be_v this_o can_v that_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n see_v even_o believer_n may_v often_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n how_o then_o i_o say_v can_v it_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o of_o a_o sound_a believer_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o we_o shall_v first_o show_v how_o believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n 2._o how_o it_o be_v not_o
to_o come_v at_o it_o if_o you_o shall_v incline_v it_o how_o can_v you_o shift_v this_o conviction_n conscience_n may_v be_v silent_a for_o a_o time_n but_o it_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v loud_a when_o sickness_n and_o the_o cross_n come_v as_o we_o see_v it_o do_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n in_o such_o a_o case_n many_o of_o you_o will_v find_v that_o conscience_n have_v be_v much_o slight_v o_o when_o death_n shall_v come_v and_o stair_n you_o in_o the_o face_n what_o a_o terrible_a thing_n will_v a_o guilty_a conscience_n be_v find_v then_o to_o be_v the_o terror_n of_o mad_a dog_n of_o wild_a boar_n of_o felrce_a lion_n and_o tiger_n will_v not_o be_v so_o terrible_a as_o a_o evil_a conscience_n will_v be_v when_o awaken_v and_o have_v death_n at_o its_o back_n nay_o suppose_v that_o conscience_n shall_v not_o be_v awaken_v while_o you_o be_v alive_a and_o in_o this_o world_n but_o that_o you_o shall_v slip_v and_o sleep_v away_o like_a lamb_n have_v no_o band_n in_o your_o death_n and_o that_o you_o shall_v die_v applaud_v of_o all_o man_n yet_o what_o will_v you_o do_v with_o your_o conscience_n or_o how_o will_v you_o stand_v before_o it_o when_o you_o shall_v be_v sist_v before_o god_n tribunal_n and_o when_o the_o book_n shall_v be_v lay_v open_a be_v there_o not_o many_o now_o in_o hell_n who_o if_o we_o can_v hear_v their_o language_n will_v very_o ready_o bid_v we_o beware_v to_o thwart_v with_o our_o conscience_n and_o to_o make_v it_o our_o enemy_n wo_n to_o they_o that_o take_v a_o evil_a conscience_n with_o they_o to_o their_o grave_n it_o will_v be_v a_o worm_n that_o will_v gnaw_v eternal_o and_o a_o inward_a poison_n and_o venom_n sting_a burn_a and_o inflame_v the_o very_a bowel_n as_o it_o be_v and_o all_o that_o be_v within_o the_o man_n beyond_o what_o be_v here_o conceivable_a we_o will_v therefore_o earnest_o beseech_v and_o obtest_v you_o sober_o to_o think_v on_o it_o for_o there_o be_v many_o of_o you_o who_o this_o challenge_n and_o reproof_n will_v reach_v and_o if_o we_o shall_v say_v otherwise_o to_o you_o who_o never_o have_v it_o for_o your_o aim_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o who_o be_v never_o exercise_v to_o nor_o serious_o take_v up_o with_o religion_n we_o will_v but_o cheat_v and_o beguile_v you_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o you_o can_v thwart_v with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o not_o also_o thwart_v with_o your_o own_o conscience_n or_o can_v you_o thwart_v with_o your_o light_n and_o your_o conscience_n be_v still_o silent_a or_o shall_v the_o have_v and_o keep_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v one_fw-mi exercise_n to_o paul_n and_o do_v you_o think_v to_o come_v so_o easy_o and_o without_o all_o labour_n to_o it_o these_o and_o other_o such_o be_v palpable_a evidence_n of_o a_o ill_a conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a a_o good_a conscience_n that_o yield_v you_o peace_n and_o quietness_n in_o such_o a_o case_n but_o it_o be_v your_o deep_a security_n and_o your_o be_v regardless_o of_o wh●_n conscience_n say_v that_o lull_v and_o rock_v you_o a_o sleep_n for_o the_o second_o how_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v or_o how_o can_v it_o be_v that_o man_n and_o woman_n thus_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n answer_n 1._o it_o need_v not_o at_o all_o to_o seem_v strange_a see_v god_n and_o his_o word_n be_v thwart_v with_o will_v they_o think_v we_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o conscience_n who_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o who_o do_v not_o lay_v weight_n on_o his_o word_n to_o regulate_v their_o conscience_n by_o it_o this_o be_v the_o great_a ground_n of_o people_n thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n and_o of_o their_o regardlesness_n of_o it_o even_o their_o not_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o god_n two_o the_o most_o part_n never_o consider_v their_o obligation_n to_o conscience_n nor_o what_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o thwart_v with_o or_o of_o go_v cross_a to_o their_o conscience_n therefore_o it_o be_v that_o they_o care_v not_o what_o conscience_n say_v be_v there_o any_o considerable_a number_n of_o person_n who_o think_v that_o thwart_a their_o conscience_n be_v such_o a_o terrible_a thing_n at_o it_o be_v indeed_o and_o as_o one_o day_n it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v many_o have_v rather_o have_v a_o very_a little_a money_n in_o their_o hand_n than_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o regardlesness_n arise_v from_o the_o ignorance_n of_o it_o and_o of_o what_o great_a concernment_n it_o be_v 3_o man_n even_o by_o accustom_v and_o habituate_a themselves_o to_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n in_o lesser_a thing_n do_v by_o little_a and_o little_o stupify_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n put_v out_o the_o life_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o ●s_v the_o apostle_n have_v the_o word_n they_o cauterise_n or_o fear_v it_o as_o it_o be_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o some_o true_o tender_a christian_n be_v trouble_v with_o and_o have_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o exercise_n any_o little_a thing_n or_o thing_n that_o have_v in_o they_o but_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o evil_n other_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o pray_v to_o be_v save_v from_o such_o madness_n and_o folly_n because_o they_o be_v never_o accustom_v to_o nor_o acquaint_v with_o any_o challenge_n or_o exercise_v of_o that_o kind_n but_o have_v teach_v themselves_o a_o way_n of_o stepe_v over_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o provock_v god_n to_o give_v they_o up_o to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n to_o do_v thing_n which_o be_v not_o convenient_a they_o harden_v themselves_o by_o resist_v the_o challenge_n of_o the_o word_n and_o rod_n of_o god_n and_o of_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o be_v judicial_o harden_v so_o that_o either_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o they_o or_o they_o do_v not_o at_o all_o value_n what_o it_o say_v thence_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o the_o profane_v have_v most_o ordinary_o few_o challenge_n and_o these_o few_o that_o they_o have_v they_o trample_v on_o they_o and_o stifle_v they_o as_o but_o un-regardable_a and_o trifle_a thing_n whereas_o the_o most_o tender_a conscience_n have_v ready_o manye_v challenge_n though_o i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o sometime_o challenge_n will_v bear_v in_o themselves_o irresistible_o on_o the_o profane_v of_o man_n but_o they_o be_v to_o such_o very_a un-welcomeguests_a and_o they_o endeavour_v quick_o to_o smother_v they_o or_o to_o drive_v they_o out_o again_o 4_o many_o bias_n their_o own_o conscience_n and_o teach_v themselves_o shift_n not_o so_o much_o to_o satisfy_v their_o conscience_n as_o how_o to_o answer_v it_o and_o to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o and_o to_o please_v their_o own_o humour_n if_o they_o can_v give_v a_o reason_n for_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o think_v they_o do_v very_o well_o thus_o deceive_v themselves_o and_o be_v deceive_v for_o a_o deceive_v heart_n have_v lead_v they_o aside_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o some_o thing_n man_n take_v as_o much_o pain_n to_o bias_n their_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v it_o say_v as_o they_o say_v as_o one_o man_n will_v take_v on_o another_o to_o satisfy_v he_o and_o to_o bring_v he_o over_o to_o be_v of_o his_o mind_n in_o any_o matter_n hence_o also_o be_v the_o debate_n and_o struggle_a exercise_n that_o some_o will_v have_v within_o themselves_o before_o they_o can_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o ingenuous_a confession_n of_o that_o they_o be_v guilty_a of_o 5_o people_z seek_v to_o please_v their_o conscience_n when_o they_o can_v bias_n it_o and_o when_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o will_v make_v amends_o as_o it_o may_v be_v they_o will_v pray_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o commit_v such_o or_o such_o a_o sin_n as_o some_o profane_a man_n will_v do_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o fight_v a_o combat_n or_o duel_n this_o be_v to_o bribe_v the_o conscience_n thus_o many_o papist_n when_o they_o have_v do_v a_o evil_a turn_n will_v give_v so_o much_o to_o the_o poor_a or_o dot_v so_o much_o to_o some_o pious_a work_n or_o use_v as_o they_o judge_v to_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o recompense_n what_o else_o be_v this_o but_o to_o bribe_v conscience_n in_o one_o thing_n to_o hold_v its_o tongue_n in_o another_o thing_n so_o some_o though_o they_o tipple_v all_o the_o day_n think_v they_o do_v well_o if_o they_o have_v be_v a_o while_n in_o the_o church_n and_o will_v seek_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o conscience_n with_o that_o at_o night_n for_o they_o can_v not_o at_o all_o keep_v quarter_n to_o speak_v so_o with_o their_o conscience_n if_o they_o have_v not_o some_o form_n of_o religion_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v to_o speak_v so_o be_v brave_a
religious_a man_n in_o some_o thing_n that_o they_o may_v get_v a_o dispensation_n to_o themselves_o in_o other_o thing_n but_o none_o of_o these_o will_v be_v find_v law-byding_a when_o god_n come_v to_o reckon_v 6_o people_n in_o a_o sort_n bargain_n with_o their_o conscience_n like_o these_o speak_v of_o isa._n 28._o 15._o they_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o death_n and_o be_v at_o agreement_n with_o hell_n and_o like_a naaman_n if_o that_o be_v indeed_o his_o meaning_n they_o will_v yield_v conscience_n such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o no_o more_o they_o must_v have_v a_o dispensation_n in_o and_o a_o liberty_n of_o make_v reservation_n and_o exception_n of_o some_o one_o or_o more_o thing_n though_o this_o may_v not_o always_o be_v do_v distinct_o formal_o and_o explicit_o yet_o it_o be_v so_o on_o the_o matter_n implicit_o and_o interpretative_o but_o that_o covenant_n with_o death_n however_o make_v direct_o or_o indirect_o shall_v be_v break_v and_o that_o agreement_n with_o hell_n shall_v not_o stand_v and_o the_o hail_n of_o god_n wrath_n will_v sweep_v away_o the_o refuge_n of_o lie_n and_o conscience_n will_v speak_v at_o last_o but_o not_o with_o or_o under_o such_o cover_v of_o figleaf_n that_o man_n now_o wrap_v themselves_o in_o therefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o dally_v not_o with_o conscience_n for_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v waken_v as_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n who_o act_v in_o and_o by_o that_o conscience_n the_o four_o and_o last_o use_v be_v a_o use_n of_o exhortation_n see_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o in_o nothing_o they_o offend_v their_o conscience_n we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o you_o will_v order_v your_o conversation_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o your_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o you_o you_o will_v all_o ready_o think_v that_o this_o be_v very_o reasonable_a and_o indeed_o if_o we_o prevail_v not_o in_o this_o wherein_o can_v we_o expect_v to_o prevail_v with_o you_o we_o seek_v no_o more_o of_o you_o but_o that_o you_o will_v so_o walk_v as_o that_o live_a and_o die_v your_o conscience_n may_v not_o flee_v in_o your_o face_n but_o may_v give_v you_o this_o testimony_n that_o you_o have_v aim_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o live_v honest_o you_o may_v possible_o think_v that_o this_o be_v a_o fair_a general_n and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o very_a gross_a and_o profane_a man_n that_o will_v deny_v it_o and_o yet_o we_o will_v think_v that_o many_o of_o you_o be_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o religion_n if_o we_o can_v prevail_v with_o you_o but_o this_o far_o as_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n live_v and_o die_v as_o we_o say_v you_o may_v study_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v no_o controvert_v nor_o debeatable_a thing_n we_o may_v with_o the_o more_o confidence_n press_v it_o upon_o you_o especial_o see_v it_o be_v the_o very_a soul_n and_o life_n of_o religion_n and_o where_o that_o be_v not_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o truth_n in_o religion_n that_o this_o exhortation_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_a and_o cogent_a we_o shall_v speak_v a_o word_n to_o these_o three_o 1._o to_o what_o this_o be_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o your_o walk_n 2._o to_o some_o motive_n to_o stir_v you_o up_o to_o it_o 3._o to_o some_o help_n to_o it_o for_o the_o 1._o it_o include_v these_o four_o which_o shall_v go_v along_o in_o your_o walk_n 1._o that_o you_o commit_v no_o know_a sin_n for_o there_o will_v be_v no_o good_a conscience_n if_o that_o be_v adventure_v on_o you_o who_o know_v that_o you_o shall_v not_o take_v liberty_n in_o drink_v drink_v in_o swear_v in_o profane_a or_o idle_a speak_n etc._n etc._n walk_v so_o as_o you_o may_v not_o thwart_v your_o knowledge_n 2_o it_o take_v in_o this_o that_o as_o you_o will_v commit_v no_o know_a sin_n so_o you_o will_v ommit_v no_o know_a duty_n because_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v wrong_v the_o conscience_n yet_o the_o sin_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o commit_v and_o the_o duty_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o omit_v do_v more_o direct_o strict_a against_o conscience_n you_o who_o know_v that_o the_o sabbath_n shall_v be_v keep_v holy_a that_o you_o shall_v pray_v in_o secret_a and_o in_o your_o family_n that_o you_o shall_v not_o offend_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n beware_v of_o hazard_v on_o these_o contrary_n to_o your_o light_n 3_o it_o take_v in_o and_o suppose_v that_o you_o do_v nothing_o doubt_o for_o rom._n 14._o he_o that_o doubt_v and_o do_v be_v damn_v he_o be_v sentence_v and_o judge_v as_o to_o that_o particular_a 4_o it_o include_v this_o to_o endeavour_v to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n o●_n perform_v all_o duty_n and_o to_o have_v a_o single_a end_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o pray_v or_o to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o other_o command_v duty_n that_o will_v not_o quiet_a the_o conscience_n if_o you_o study_v not_o to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n and_o to_o do_v it_o for_o the_o right_a end_n the_o want_n of_o these_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o acceptable_a duty_n will_v make_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v lawful_a on_o the_o matter_n turn_v to_o be_v ground_n of_o challenge_n from_o the_o conscience_n but_o somewhat_o to_o this_o purpose_n have_v be_v speak_v of_o before_o therefore_o it_o have_v now_o be_v but_o touch_v 2_o for_o motive_n 1._o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o be_v a_o more_o clear_a duty_n it_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o by_o nature_n heathen_n have_v it_o engrave_v on_o their_o heart_n as_o we_o see_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n excuse_v or_o accuse_v one_o another_o and_o they_o have_v call_v it_o a_o brazen_a wall_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o to_o a_o sound_a walk_n in_o their_o moral_a sense_n 2_o there_o be_v many_o and_o great_a advantage_n attend_v it_o as_o namely_o 1._o it_o give_v a_o man_n much_o boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n 1_o john_n 3._o 20._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o boldness_n towards_o god_n when_o we_o go_v to_o pray_v 2._o it_o give_v ground_n also_o to_o expect_v one_fw-mi hearing_n 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v please_v in_o his_o sight_n and_o cross_v not_o our_o light_n and_o conscience_n in_o neglect_v any_o of_o they_o 3_o it_o keep_v a_o man_n from_o much_o sin_n and_o be_v that_o think_v you_o little_a advantage_n to_o have_v little_a comparative_o at_o least_o on_o a_o man_n score_n to_o reckon_v for_o 4thly_a it_o make_v a_o man_n life_n cheerful_a so_o prov._n 15._o 15._o he_o that_o be_v of_o a_o merry_a heart_n have_v a_o continual_a feast_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o heart_n cheerful_a in_o god_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v it_o on_o the_o matter_n which_o guard_v the_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o that_o no_o care_n can_v considerable_o disquiet_v it_o as_o we_o have_v it_o phil._n 4._o 7._o the_o heart_n be_v guard_v yea_o garison_v as_o the_o word_n be_v with_o peace_n that_o there_o be_v no_o storm_v nor_o intake_v of_o it_o by_o outward_a trouble_n it_o be_v the_o joy_n that_o stranger_n inter_v meddle_v not_o with_o 5thly_a it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o strong_a cordial_a in_o affliction_n when_o christian_n be_v persecute_v by_o stranger_n or_o by_o false_a brethren_n be_v in_o sickness_n in_o prison_n in_o peril_n by_o sea_n or_o land_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o in_o the_o midst_n of_o affliction_n six_o and_o more_o particular_o it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o sovereign_a cordial_n when_o death_n approach_v hezekiah_n can_v say_v then_o remember_v lord_n how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n it_o put_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o posture_n of_o die_v somewhat_o like_o old_a simeon_n and_o give_v some_o ground_n to_o say_v with_o he_o now_o let_v thou_o thy_o servant_n depart_v in_o peace_n for_o my_o eye_n have_v see_v thy_o salvation_n the_o necessity_n of_o it_o will_v yet_o further_o appear_v if_o on_o the_o other_o side_n we_o look_v to_o the_o disadvantage_n that_o wait_v the_o want_n of_o it_o though_o man_n can_v be_v content_a to_o live_v a_o heartless_a life_n
to_o hazard_v on_o sin_n to_o neglect_v prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n yet_o they_o will_v consider_v the_o terror_n that_o follow_v one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n and_o how_o it_o breed_v and_o brew_v a_o hell_n within_o their_o own_o bosom_n there_o be_v then_o a_o necessity_n a_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o quarrel_n be_v not_o and_o abide_v not_o betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o for_o ever_o 3_o for_o some_o help_n or_o direction_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o we_o wish_v we_o be_v all_o in_o a_o posture_n and_o frame_n of_o soul_n to_o meet_v with_o to_o receive_v and_o make_v suitable_a use_n of_o they_o 1._o endeavour_v to_o have_v light_n and_o clearness_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n and_o what_o concern_v your_o own_o good_a let_v every_o one_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 14._o 5._o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o you_o who_o be_v gross_o or_o very_o ignorant_a can_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n you_o know_v not_o when_o you_o sin_n nor_o when_o you_o do_v duty_n aright_o yea_o although_o you_o may_v do_v duty_n or_o thing_n good_a on_o the_o matter_n the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n make_v you_o want_v the_o testimony_n of_o that_o good_a alace_o that_o many_o wise_a and_o rich_a man_n that_o can_v speak_v well_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n shall_v be_v quite_o ignorant_a of_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o many_o of_o you_o will_v think_v shame_n of_o it_o if_o we_o will_v point_v you_o out_o 2_o advert_v and_o take_v heed_n to_o what_o conscience_n say_v the_o truth_n be_v most_o man_n take_v heed_n to_o what_o may_v further_o their_o design_n in_o external_o to_o what_o their_o wit_n and_o reason_n carve_v out_o to_o they_o and_o to_o what_o their_o own_o light_n think_v or_o as_o it_o be_v overly_o say_v be_v right_a and_o present_o step_v to_o it_o and_o never_o ask_v what_o science_n well_o inform_v from_o the_o word_n say_v this_o make_v many_o man_n say_v and_o do_v in_o their_o haste_n that_o which_o they_o repent_v of_o afterward_o therefore_o you_o shall_v learn_v to_o put_v conscience_n to_o speak_v consult_v not_o with_o your_o design_n nor_o with_o your_o wit_n and_o reason_n only_o nor_o main_o but_o retire_v and_o consult_v serious_o with_o your_o conscience_n commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n and_o be_v still_o stand_v in_o awe_n and_o sin_n not_o as_o it_o be_v psal._n 4._o 4._o consult_v not_o with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n let_v not_o their_o advice_n come_v in_o betwixt_o god_n and_o you_o and_o final_o determine_v you_o but_o reason_n with_o yourselves_o think_v this_o and_o this_o our_o inclination_n say_v and_o this_o and_o this_o our_o overly_o light_n say_v but_o we_o will_v put_v conscience_n to_o it_o and_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o inferior_a rule_n and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v not_o take_v every_o thing_n from_o conscience_n without_o ground_n but_o hear_v what_o the_o superior_a rule_n of_o god_n word_n say_v and_o this_o be_v a_o right_a circle_n wherein_o you_o shall_v turn_v yourselves_o even_o to_o try_v your_o light_n by_o bring_v it_o to_o conscience_n and_o then_o to_o try_v your_o conscience_n by_o put_v it_o to_o give_v a_o reason_n from_o the_o word_n 3_o be_v exceed_o aware_a to_o thwart_v with_o your_o light_n in_o the_o least_o thing_n and_o abstain_v from_o every_o thing_n that_o seem_v to_o come_v in_o top_n with_o it_o for_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a tender_a thing_n if_o we_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o conscience_n we_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o give_v we_o up_o to_o do_v what_o we_o will_v and_o to_o send_v we_o like_o lamb_n to_o feed_v in_o a_o large_a place_n therefore_o i_o say_v again_o beware_v of_o thwart_v in_o the_o least_o thing_n with_o your_o light_n and_o your_o conscience_n 4_o as_o you_o will_v hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v before_o you_o do_v any_o thing_n so_o when_o you_o have_v do_v it_o you_o shall_v consider_v how_o you_o carry_v in_o it_o according_a to_o your_o light_n and_o whether_o you_o have_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o such_o a_o thing_n both_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n and_o the_o manner_n and_o put_v your_o conscience_n to_o speak_v to_o that_o and_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v concern_v what_o be_v do_v there_o will_v be_v in_o this_o much_o singleness_n for_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v evil_a it_o will_v make_v the_o who●e_a body_n full_a of_o darkness_n hence_o paul_n put_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o sincerity_n together_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o if_o we_o shall_v speak_v never_o so_o many_o good_a word_n and_o do_v never_o so_o many_o good_a ●hings_n on_o the_o matter_n if_o we_o be_v not_o single_o mind_v god_n honour_n in_o they_o they_o will_v not_o be_v acceptable_a the_o want_n of_o sincerity_n will_v be_v as_o the_o dead_a ●ie_v in_o many_o a_o man_n pot_n of_o ointment_n of_o call_v for_o duty_n that_o will_v make_v it_o cast_v forth_o one_fw-mi evil_a and_o stink_a smell_n the_o savour_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v sure_o be_v want_v where_o singleness_n be_v not_o or_o where_o conscience_n be_v make_v subordinate_a to_o our_o carnal_a interest_n many_o may_v have_v a_o resolution_n to_o do_v such_o and_o duty_n who_o yet_o make_v these_o to_o keep_v level_a with_o carnal_a design_n and_o interest_n it_o be_v impossible_a when_o man_n come_v not_o as_o new_o bear_v babe_n to_o drink_v in_o the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o they_o can_v profit_v let_v be_v grow_v thereby_o 6_o be_v frequent_a and_o serious_a in_o make_v humble_a and_o believe_a application_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o thereby_o your_o conscience_n may_v be_v sprinkle_v and_o purge_v from_o dead_a work_n for_o the_o great_a ground_n of_o your_o p●ace_n be_v not_o your_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n but_o his_o satisfaction_n many_o of_o our_o work_n and_o duty_n alace_o want_v life_n and_o if_o they_o be_v not_o sprinkle_v with_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o blood_n they_o will_v be_v but_o as_o so_o many_o dead_a weight_n on_o the_o conscience_n and_o indeed_o there_o can_v be_v no_o true_o good_a conscience_n whatever_o else_o be_v if_o this_o be_v neglect_v let_v then_o these_o that_o will_v be_v at_o a_o good_a conscience_n make_v use_n of_o these_o direction_n and_o help_n and_o they_o shall_v doubtless_o come_v the_o better_a speed_n now_o we_o be_v sure_a that_o this_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n to_o wit_n that_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o have_v and_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o always_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n which_o a_o very_a heathen_a be_v he_o present_v with_o we_o will_v not_o contradict_v and_o it_o be_v very_o useful_a for_o you_o though_o it_o may_v be_v some_o profane_a wretch_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v what_o need_v all_o this_o niceness_n and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o truth_n and_o a_o most_o concern_v truth_n so_o nothing_o will_v make_v your_o life_n more_o true_o cheerful_a and_o comfortable_a and_o if_o it_o be_v neglect_v or_o slight_v all_o your_o knowledge_n all_o your_o disput_n about_o religion_n all_o your_o tasting_n of_o the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n all_o your_o prayer_n or_o what_o else_o you_o can_v name_v will_v be_v to_o no_o purpose_n and_o see_v it_o be_v so_o very_o important_a and_o concern_v a_o truth_n we_o leave_v it_o on_o you_o before_o god_n and_o put_v it_o home_o to_o your_o conscience_n to_o make_v it_o your_o exercise_n to_o have_v always_o a_o good_a conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n we_o mind_v not_o to_o come_v back_o again_o on_o this_o text_n nor_o to_o touch_v on_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o doctrine_n at_o first_o propose_v from_o it_o what_o we_o have_v say_v be_v principal_o if_o not_o only_o design_v and_o most_o if_o not_o all_o the_o other_o doctrine_n be_v one_o way_n or_o other_o reach_v in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o these_o that_o we_o have_v at_o length_n speak_v to_o the_o lord_n gracious_o bless_v what_o you_o have_v hear_v sermon_n i._n 1_o peter_z 3._o 21._o not_o the_o put_v away_o of_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n conscience_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o most_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n give_v to_o man_n have_v a_o excellent_a nature_n be_v wait_v with_o many_o rare_a and_o choice_a uses_n and_o advantage_n throughout_o their_o whole_a life_n and_o when_o it_o be_v right_o use_v it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o special_a friend_n that_o man_n can_v have_v on_o earth_n and_o one_o of_o the_o great_a thing_n that_o this_o gospel_n and_o the_o
preach_n of_o it_o aim_v at_o even_o to_o direct_v and_o help_v they_o how_o to_o come_v at_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a correspondence_n with_o their_o conscience_n so_o as_o they_o may_v be_v comfortable_o assure_v that_o they_o indeed_o have_v this_o good_a thing_n which_o be_v call_v a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o when_o conscience_n be_v abuse_v or_o not_o make_v right_o use_v of_o it_o turn_v to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a unfriend_n and_o enemy_n that_o man_n have_v in_o this_o world_n nay_o in_o that_o world_n which_o be_v to_o come_v have_v speak_v somewhat_o to_o this_o before_o and_o in_o the_o last_o observation_n that_o we_o draw_v from_o the_o former_a text_n which_o be_v that_o man_n ought_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v their_o conscience_n in_o any_o thing_n we_o shall_v now_o speak_v somewhat_o to_o one_o direction_n and_o help_n that_o be_v great_o if_o not_o main_o contributive_a and_o useful_a in_o order_n to_o the_o attain_n of_o that_o notable_a end_n which_o be_v this_o that_o man_n who_o aim_v to_o walk_v answerable_o to_o that_o rule_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o they_o offend_v their_o conscience_n have_v need_n to_o observe_v careful_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o our_o purpose_n to_o stay_v on_o the_o particular_a consideration_n of_o the_o scope_n of_o this_o scripture_n nor_o so_o much_o as_o to_o name_n let_v be_v to_o prosecute_v all_o the_o point_n of_o doctrine_n that_o may_v be_v draw_v from_o it_o but_o only_o to_o discourse_v a_o little_a from_o the_o word_n enclose_v and_o shut_v up_o within_o a_o parenthesis_n as_o they_o relate_v to_o our_o end_n and_o design_n first_o then_o in_o a_o word_n the_o apostle_n be_v here_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o external_a service_n and_o the_o internal_a power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n on_o the_o conscience_n and_o when_o he_o be_v speak_v of_o baptism_n he_o give_v this_o caveat_n and_o advertisement_n that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o wash_n of_o water_n in_o that_o ordinance_n that_o reach_v the_o great_a end_n of_o it_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o he_o show_v that_o the_o difference_v and_o march-ridding_a character_n of_o the_o one_o from_o the_o other_o be_v in_o what_o answer_n the_o conscience_n give_v concern_v the_o thing_n that_o the_o man_n be_v about_o and_o declare_v that_o it_o be_v not_o simple_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o give_v ground_n of_o hope_n and_o boldness_n of_o confidence_n to_o obtain_v the_o promise_n from_o the_o word_n these_o three_o observation_n arise_v clear_o first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o faculty_n in_o conscience_n that_o be_v able_a to_o give_v ●ne_a answer_n to_o a_o man_n concern_v his_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n and_o concern_v his_o action_n so_o that_o if_o the_o question_n about_o these_o or_o any_o of_o they_o be_v put_v to_o the_o conscience_n it_o can_v return_v answer_n and_o signify_v its_o sense_n and_o give_v its_o verdict_n concern_v that_o which_o it_o be_v question_v about_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n imply_v so_o much_o 2_o that_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v different_a and_o distinct_a from_o the_o outward_a answer_n of_o the_o mouth_n or_o profession_n for_o a_o man_n mouth_n and_o profession_n and_o the_o external_a ingadgement_n that_o he_o come_v under_o in_o baptism_n or_o any_o other_o ordinance_n or_o duty_n may_v say_v one_o thing_n or_o give_v one_o answer_n when_o the_o conscience_n may_v say_v another_o thing_n or_o give_v another_o answer_n concern_v the_o man_n sincerity_n in_o the_o thing_n 3_o that_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o be_v one_fw-mi answer_v from_o the_o conscience_n on_o good_a ground_n testify_v a_o man_n sincerity_n be_v a_o most_o excellent_a and_o comfortable_a thing_n it_o be_v the_o first_o of_o these_o that_o we_o intend_v to_o speak_v a_o word_n to_o at_o this_o time_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v a_o way_n of_o get_v a_o answer_n from_o the_o conscience_n and_o of_o understand_v its_o mind_n about_o any_o thing_n that_o man_n shall_v put_v to_o it_o or_o thus_o conscience_n have_v a_o way_n of_o make_v know_v its_o mind_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n about_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v put_v unto_o it_o these_o word_n answer_v of_o conscience_n imply_v so_o much_o as_o we_o say_v especial_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o external_a service_n and_o administration_n of_o baptism_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o word_n before_o and_o it_o be_v yet_o more_o clear_a if_o we_o consider_v how_o the_o scop_n run_v in_o compare_v of_o these_o two_o together_o viz._n the_o verbal_a restipulation_n of_o these_o that_o be_v come_v to_o age_n and_o the_o inward_a answer_n of_o conscience_n there_o be_v the_o gospel_n on_o the_o one_o side_n require_v such_o a_o thing_n and_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o party_n baptize_v on_o the_o other_o side_n and_o the_o apostle_n make_v the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n distinct_a from_o that_o though_o sometime_o it_o go_v along_o with_o it_o so_o that_o a_o man_n will_v not_o answer_v more_o clear_o to_o the_o thing_n than_o his_o conscience_n will_v when_o it_o be_v serious_o put_v to_o it_o this_o may_v be_v branch_v out_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n state_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o some_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o heart_n embrace_v of_o it_o 3._o in_o respect_n of_o some_o practice_n or_o duty_n that_o a_o man_n be_v call_v to_o all_o these_o do_v fall_v under_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v question_v about_o they_o but_o it_o be_v the_o last_o of_o they_o that_o we_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o viz._n it_o be_v answer_n as_o relate_v to_o a_o christian_n duty_n and_o practice_n about_o which_o conscience_n be_v ask_v or_o pose_v be_v able_a to_o give_v he_o a_o answer_n which_o i_o shall_v clear_v from_o two_o ground_n and_o then_o come_v to_o the_o use._n the_o 1._o ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n which_o we_o some_o way_n explain_v when_o we_o begin_v to_o speak_v of_o this_o subject_n conscience_n be_v depute_v of_o god_n in_o man_n to_o take_v strict_a notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o walk_n and_o practice_n and_o be_v the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n search_v all_o the_o inward_a part_n of_o the_o belly_n to_o let_v man_n see_v what_o god_n call_v to_o and_o to_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n their_o duty_n this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o office_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o end_n why_o god_n have_v place_v it_o in_o man_n it_o be_v no_o doubt_n furnish_v with_o such_o a_o faculty_n if_o we_o may_v speak_v so_o as_o to_o be_v able_a to_o give_v a_o answer_n concern_v what_o it_o be_v query_v about_o more_o particular_o it_o have_v a_o threefold_a power_n in_o reference_n to_o a_o man_n way_n and_o thus_o it_o represent_v god_n in_o three_o of_o his_o attribut_n 1._o it_o have_v a_o power_n of_o counsel_v advise_v and_o carve_v out_o of_o a_o man_n duty_n so_o that_o when_o he_o doubt_v what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v conscience_n have_v a_o power_n to_o advise_v he_o and_o give_v he_o a_o answer_n and_o this_o be_v call_v the_o dictate_v of_o the_o conscience_n answerable_a to_o the_o sovereign_a authority_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o command_v all_o his_o creature_n to_o who_o conscience_n be_v subordinat_a in_o which_o respect_n man_n be_v condemn_v for_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n rom._n 1._o ult_n who_o know_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o that_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n not_o only_o do_v the_o same_o but_o have_v pleasure_n in_o they_o that_o do_v they_o here_o be_v conscience_n dictate_v to_o man_n what_o they_o shall_v do_v before_o they_o do_v 2_o there_o be_v a_o power_n or_o something_o in_o the_o conscience_n that_o go_v along_o with_o a_o man_n act_v or_o that_o wait_v on_o he_o in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o act_n in_o duty_n and_o this_o especial_o be_v call_v the_o testify_a of_o conscience_n or_o it_o be_v bear_a witness_n concern_v the_o sincerity_n or_o un-soundness_n of_o the_o act_n not_o on●y_o do_v the_o man_n mouth_n speak_v and_o his_o hand_n do_v but_o the_o conscience_n will_v give_v answer_n if_o the_o heart_n be_v go_v along_o with_o the_o man_n speak_v and_o do_v or_o not_o wherein_o it_o represent_v god_n omniscience_n or_o all-knowledge_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o psal._n 27._o 8._o david_n say_v when_o thou_o say_v seek_v you_o my_o face_n my_o bear_v it_o answer_v thy_o face_n will_v i_o seek_v o_o lord_n and_o psal._n 16._o 2._o o_o my_o soul_n thou_o
have_v say_v unto_o the_o lord_n thou_o be_v my_o lord_n this_o be_v the_o language_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heart_n testify_v by_o the_o conscience_n or_o conscience_n answer_v the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heart_n 3_o there_o be_v a_o power_n in_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v subsequent_a unto_o and_o follow_v upon_o the_o action_n when_o do_v either_o approve_v or_o disapprove_v either_o accuss_v or_o excuse_v either_o absolve_a or_o condemn_v call_v the_o recognosce_n or_o examine_v of_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v do_v when_o conscience_n put_v the_o man_n deed_n or_o action_n when_o perform_v to_o the_o trial_n and_o have_v try_v it_o pass_v sentence_n on_o it_o thus_o conscience_n represent_v god_n as_o judge_n and_o as_o a_o just_a judge_n now_o all_o these_o three_o be_v in_o the_o conscience_n viz._n a_o power_n of_o counsel_v command_v and_o dictate_v to_o a_o man_n what_o he_o shall_v do_v a_o power_n bear_v testimony_n concern_v the_o manner_n of_o his_o do_v and_o a_o power_n of_o recognosce_v and_o examine_v after_o he_o have_v do_v it_o tell_v we_o plain_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n declare_v its_o mind_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n to_o man_n concern_v their_o duty_n in_o what_o it_o be_v put_v to_o give_v a_o answer_n about_o else_o they_o can_v not_o know_v its_o mind_n the_o second_o ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o clear_a and_o manifest_a effect_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v testify_v or_o answer_v what_o i_o pray_v make_v a_o restlessness_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o people_n but_o conscience_n its_o challenge_v or_o reprove_v what_o cause_v tranquillity_n and_o peace_n within_o when_o reproach_n and_o revile_n be_v without_o but_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n to_o the_o man_n of_o his_o innocency_n in_o and_o his_o be_v free_a of_o these_o thing_n wherewith_o he_o be_v charge_v and_o what_o be_v it_o that_o lay_v on_o a_o restraint_n and_o bond_n as_o it_o be_v on_o the_o man_n spirit_n as_o paul_n say_v of_o himself_o act_v 20_o 22._o i_o go_v hound_n in_o the_o spirit_n to_o jerusalem_n but_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o weight_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o also_o the_o weight_n that_o flow_v immediate_o from_o the_o conscience_n joy_v with_o and_o back_v the_o word_n now_o if_o the_o conscience_n have_v not_o a_o direct_a and_o distinct_a language_n or_o answer_v to_o give_v to_o man_n about_o their_o action_n there_o can_v be_v no_o such_o effect_n follow_v it_o the_o uses_n be_v two_o the_o 1._o for_o direction_n the_o 2._o for_o reproof_n the_o use_v for_o direction_n be_v that_o see_v there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n whereby_o it_o make_v know_v its_o mind_n when_o it_o be_v ask_v concern_v our_o way_n we_o ought_v if_o we_o believe_v that_o we_o have_v conscience_n to_o put_v they_o to_o answer_v and_o to_o observe_v what_o they_o say_v and_o what_o answer_n they_o return_v if_o conscience_n have_v a_o language_n i_o say_v again_o let_v we_o put_v it_o to_o speak_v out_o and_o let_v we_o be_v very_o ready_a and_o attentive_a to_o hear_v what_o it_o speak_v to_o clear_v this_o a_o little_a we_o will_v consider_v that_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n in_o a_o christian_a walk_n in_o reference_n to_o this_o correspondency_n which_o a_o man_n shall_v keep_v with_o his_o conscience_n the_o 1._o which_o be_v universal_a and_o irresistible_a be_v when_o the_o conscience_n ask_v man_n or_o put_v question_n to_o they_o such_z as_o why_o do_v you_o this_o or_o that_o why_o do_v you_o leave_v this_o or_o that_o undo_v as_o it_o be_v 1_o cor._n 10._o 25._o ask_v no_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n that_o be_v ask_v no_o question_n for_o answer_v of_o these_o question_n which_o conscience_n will_v ask_v the_o second_o be_v when_o man_n ask_v question_n at_o their_o conscience_n to_o prevent_v its_o question_n of_o they_o as_o indeed_o we_o shall_v be_v take_v pain_n before_o hand_n to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o the_o language_n of_o our_o conscience_n concern_v our_o practice_n in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o particular_a that_o it_o may_v have_v no_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n against_o we_o i_o shall_v instance_n this_o in_o three_o thing_n and_o hold_v at_o the_o first_o for_o the_o time_n 1._o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n before_o we_o put_v our_o hand_n to_o any_o duty_n 2_o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n in_o the_o interim_n or_o in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o our_o go_v about_o duty_n 3_o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n concern_v duty_n when_o we_o have_v do_v and_o go_v through_o with_o it_o in_o which_o my_o meaning_n be_v not_o 1._o that_o we_o shall_v in_o clear_a and_o necessary_a duty_n start_v or_o put_v question_n but_o that_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o their_o own_o nature_n and_o in_o such_o duty_n as_o be_v necessary_a and_o do_v semper_fw-la or_o ever_o oblige_v though_o not_o ad_fw-la semper_fw-la or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n but_o only_o hic_fw-mi &_o nunc_fw-la now_o and_o then_o to_o wit_n at_o due_a and_o seasonable_a time_n or_o as_o to_o the_o right_n time_v of_o these_o necessary_a duty_n for_o every_o thing_n be_v beautiful_a in_o the_o season_n thereof_o wherein_o a_o great_a part_n of_o our_o work_n along_o our_o whole_a life_n lie_v the_o answer_n of_o our_o conscience_n shall_v be_v observe_v for_o though_o many_o condition_n station_n and_o action_n be_v lawful_a yet_o conscience_n decide_v whether_o i_o be_v call_v to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o station_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o duty_n to_o i_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o how_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v go_v about_o as_o to_o the_o manner_n neither_o 2_o do_v i_o mean_v that_o we_o shall_v in_o these_o thing_n expect_v any_o extraordinary_a thing_n or_o somewhat_o more_o than_o a_o ordinary_a impulse_n of_o conscience_n lay_v on_o a_o sort_n of_o constraint_n or_o necessity_n on_o we_o in_o a_o immediate_a way_n which_o will_v be_v dangerous_a but_o my_o meaning_n be_v short_o this_o that_o there_o be_v a_o possibility_n in_o god_n ordinary_a way_n to_o know_v what_o conscience_n say_v to_o they_o that_o will_v observe_v the_o answer_n of_o it_o both_o before_o in_o and_o after_o duty_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o understand_v and_o take_v up_o that_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o use_n we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a to_o some_o five_o or_o six_o question_n as_o namely_o 1._o what_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v two_o how_o the_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n 3_o what_o be_v call_v for_o from_o man_n to_o find_v out_o this_o answer_n 4_o how_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v discern_v 5_o if_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v discernible_a at_o all_o time_n 6_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o such_o case_n wherein_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v not_o so_o clear_a as_o man_n will_v have_v it_o for_o the_o 1._o what_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v i_o answer_v in_o short_a that_o it_o be_v distinct_a from_o a_o man_n inclination_n from_o his_o affection_n and_o from_o his_o naked_a judgement_n or_o light_n there_o be_v something_o in_o a_o man_n natural_a inclination_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o sway_n he_o to_o this_o or_o that_o but_o that_o be_v not_o conscience_n there_o be_v also_o something_o in_o a_o man_n affection_n as_o in_o that_o which_o he_o fear_v or_o desire_v and_o love_v that_o may_v sway_n he_o neither_o be_v that_o conscience_n but_o often_o that_o which_o be_v contrary_a to_o conscience_n there_o be_v likewise_o something_o in_o man_n light_n from_o which_o al●o_o conscience_n differ_v because_o a_o natural_a and_o unregenerat_a man_n that_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o his_o way_n may_v notwithstanding_o have_v a_o light_n in_o his_o judgement_n by_o which_o he_o be_v put_v to_o come_v to_o church_n an●_n possible_o to_o pray_v and_o do_v other_o duty_n and_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v from_o no_o answer_n or_o dictat_fw-la of_o conscience_n that_o he_o do_v these_o duty_n we_o conceive_v therefore_o that_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v something_o different_a from_o and_o beyond_o either_o inclination_n affection_n or_o bare_a light_n and_o that_o it_o be_v light_a and_o conscience_n go_v joint_o together_o or_o some_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o the_o word_n for_o we_o be_v speak_v here_o of_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v in_o people_n live_v in_o the_o church_n under_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n and_o conscience_n thereupon_o put_v on_o
there_o shall_v be_v a_o commune_n with_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n which_o we_o conceive_v be_v often_o neglect_v and_o man_n often_o start_v and_o strick_v in_o with_o thing_n without_o deliberation_n think_v if_o they_o have_v light_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n that_o it_o be_v enough_o for_o make_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v duty_n it_o be_v true_a one_fw-mi argument_n from_o light_n may_v induce_v to_o the_o thing_n yet_o we_o be_v neglective_a when_o we_o bring_v it_o not_o to_o the_o conscience_n 3_o man_n shall_v bring_v thing_n impartial_o to_o the_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o we_o be_v not_o pre-occupled_n or_o prejudge_v lest_o we_o get_v one_fw-mi answer_n according_a to_o our_o idol_n as_o well_o as_o we_o shall_v beware_v of_o byass_v and_o bribe_v conscience_n if_o the_o eye_n be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n will_v be_v full_a of_o light_n but_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o single_a darkness_n may_v be_v have_v from_o the_o conscience_n in_o stead_n of_o light_n not_o that_o in_o clear_a thing_n that_o be_v duty_n at_o all_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v stick_v and_o mo●e_n question_n which_o be_v balaam_n fault_n but_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a or_o though_o lawful_a yet_o not_o call_v for_o at_o all_o time_n nor_o from_o we_o in_o such_o a_o station_n or_o relation_n when_o the_o question_n run_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a to_o we_o or_o not_o or_o if_o we_o be_v call_v to_o it_o at_o this_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v single_a and_o take_v one_fw-mi answer_v from_o conscience_n as_o god_n clear_v it_o 4_o we_o shall_v give_v attention_n le●d_a to_o our_o ear_n and_o take_v good_a heed_n what_o conscience_n incline_v to_o and_o say_v whither_o it_o incline_v this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n as_o when_o we_o ask_v a_o question_n at_o 〈◊〉_d we_o use_v to_o be_v silent_a till_o they_o answer_v so_o shall_v it_o be_v here_o and_o if_o conscience_n seem_v not_o to_o speak_v we_o shall_v wa●t_v on_o and_o not_o be_v hasty_a especial_o we_o shall_v look_v well_o that_o we_o distinguish_v betwixt_o inclination_n the_o affection_n of_o fear_n passion_n and_o the_o like_a and_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n lest_o we_o take_v the_o one_o for_o the_o other_o we_o shall_v both_o take_v heed_n that_o it_o be_v conscience_n that_o answer_v and_o that_o we_o take_v up_o the_o meaning_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v answer_n aright_o in_o order_n to_o which_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o quiet_v and_o hush_v of_o all_o thing_n within_o the_o man_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o disturb_v in_o take_v up_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n or_o that_o may_v prejudge_v conscience_n in_o speak_v and_o give_v its_o answer_n 5_o when_o conscience_n have_v speak_v we_o shall_v put_v its_o answer_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n indeed_o we_o shall_v take_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o same_o even_o as_o we_o shall_v take_v our_o light_n to_o conscience_n that_o conscience_n may_v testify_v of_o it_o so_o when_o we_o have_v get_v one_fw-mi answer_n from_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v it_o back_o to_o light_n and_o see_v how_o it_o agree_v with_o the_o word_n for_o there_o be_v a_o great_a correspondence_n betwixt_o these_o two_o conscience_n and_o light_n conscience_n serve_v to_o balance_v light_n and_o light_a to_o confirm_v conscience_n which_o be_v god_n deputy_n set_v up_o in_o man_n to_o speak_v his_o mind_n ere_o we_o can_v follow_v aught_o as_o the_o language_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v ask_v for_o his_o warrant_n and_o if_o it_o produce_v no_o word_n for_o the_o warrant_n of_o what_o it_o say_v we_o shall_v not_o take_v it_o for_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n or_o at_o least_o it_o shall_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o mistake_a answer_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o some_o when_o they_o get_v a_o little_a lightning_n after_o prayer_n and_o do_v not_o put_v it_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o yet_o rest_v on_o it_o as_o one_fw-mi answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v yea_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o many_o of_o god_n people_n who_o have_v some_o access_n and_o liberty_n in_o their_o address_n to_o he_o be_v mistake_v for_o it_o be_v not_o access_n to_o he_o nor_o liberty_n simple_o that_o warrand_v conscience_n to_o speak_v but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o for_o the_o four_o question_v how_o this_o language_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v discern_v and_o distinguish_v or_o difference_v from_o man_n light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n of_o fear_n or_o desire_n and_o like_v to_o be_v at_o a_o thing_n which_o will_v stir_v and_o make_v restless_a as_o well_o as_o as_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n we_o answer_v 1._o the_o answer_n that_o conscience_n give_v be_v always_o from_o the_o word_n if_o it_o be_v right_a and_o upon_o that_o account_n that_o the_o word_n warrand_v it_o it_o not_o only_o say_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n but_o press_v to_o it_o because_o agreeable_a thereto_o as_o for_o instance_n to_o allude_v to_o that_o word_n if_o not_o more_o he_o that_o give_v to_o a_o disciple_n a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n shall_v not_o loss_n his_o reward_n we_o may_v give_v somewhat_o to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v a_o disciple_n out_o of_o pity_n or_o on_o some_o other_o natural_a or_o moral_a consideration_n and_o relation_n and_o light_n will_v direct_v to_o that_o and_o the_o natural_a conscience_n may_v pousse_n to_o it_o but_o to_o make_v it_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o require_v a_o re-duplication_a that_o we_o give_v to_o he_o as_o or_o because_o he_o be_v a_o disciple_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n so_o one_o may_v pray_v and_o come_v to_o church_n and_o have_v an●_n impulse_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o not_o from_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o another_o do_v because_o the_o one_o come_v as_o in_o obedience_n to_o a_o command_v duty_n the_o other_o not_o but_o on_o some_o other_o account_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o that_o account_n but_o light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o another_o account_n as_o from_o some_o selfish_a motive_n or_o consideration_n suppose_v it_o to_o be_v a_o duty_n a_o second_o way_n to_o discern_v its_o answer_n be_v this_o light_z inclination_n and_o affection_n put_v to_o the_o thing_n in_o the_o general_a only_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n respect_v all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o thing_n conscience_n do_v not_o only_o say_v go_v and_o pray_v but_o pray_v in_o this_o manner_n to_o wit_n with_o faith_n love_n fear_v reverence_n and_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n consider_v the_o duty_n as_o circumstantiate_v in_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v answer_n be_v no_o broad_a nor_o narrow_a than_o the_o word_n be_v whereas_o when_o a_o man_n be_v put_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n from_o credit_n fear_v or_o desire_n his_o practice_n be_v extend_v no_o further_a than_o to_o such_o an●_n end_n credit_n fear_v of_o loss_n or_o the_o like_a if_o he_o have_v any_o regard_n to_o circumstance_n levell_v and_o module_v he_o in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o his_o act_n so_o as_o he_o may_v attain_v that_o which_o drive_v he_o on_o to_o such_o a_o duty_n but_o when_o conscience_n put_v to_o duty_n that_o god_n may_v be_v obey_v and_o peace_n in_o he_o enjoy_v it_o regulate_v the_o man_n in_o all_o circumstance_n of_o his_o duty_n in_o order_n to_o that_o end_n and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o some_o be_v so_o soon_o and_o so_o well_o satisfy_v with_o duty_n other_o be_v never_o thorough_o satisfy_v because_o the_o one_o go_v about_o duty_n for_o the_o fashion_n to_o guard_v against_o and_o hold_v off_o challenge_v or_o for_o some_o other_o sinister_a end_n and_o so_o be_v still_o drive_v on_o from_o such_o a_o principle_n and_o for_o such_o end_n but_o the_o other_o go_v about_o duty_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n a●d_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v peace_n in_o he_o and_o while_o any_o thing_n be_v want_v that_o may_v m●rr_v that_o he_o be_v disquiet_v 3_o we_o may_v discern_v it_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o answer_n and_o the_o effect_n that_o it_o have_v on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d to_o who_o the_o answer_n be_v give_v conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n and_o the_o most_o divine_a thing_n in_o man_n even_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o search_v into_o the_o 〈◊〉_d and_o inward_a part_n of_o the_o belly_n and_o when_o act_v its_o part_n aright_o the_o most_o excellent_a representer_n of_o god_n if_o it_o
refuse_v to_o give_v answer_n to_o either_o by_o dream_n or_o by_o urim_n or_o by_o prophet_n so_o as_o not_o to_o give_v they_o clearness_n by_o one_o mean_n nor_o another_o neither_o from_o his_o word_n nor_o by_o their_o conscience_n as_o call_v they_o to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a thing_n it_o be_v no_o marvel_n that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n man_n be_v in_o the_o dark_a and_o that_o conscience_n keep_v itself_o silent_a yet_o two_o for_o clear_v the_o matter_n further_o you_o will_v consider_v two_o sort_n of_o cause_n that_o this_o proceed_v from_o some_z whereof_o be_v culpable_a and_o sinful_a on_o our_o part_n procure_v this_o as_o a_o just_a punishment_n of_o some_o former_a sin_n or_o of_o some_o present_a evil_n and_o sinful_a frame_n other_o some_o be_v sovereign_a on_o god_n part_n yet_o tend_v in_o his_o secret_a providence_n to_o promote_v some_o design_n of_o good_a to_o the_o person_n of_o a_o believer_n as_o to_o these_o cause_n that_o be_v sinful_a and_o culpable_a on_o our_o part_n we_o shall_v instance_n they_o in_o four_o or_o five_o case_n as_o 1._o when_o there_o be_v a_o sinful_a ignorance_n in_o the_o person_n who_o desire_v to_o be_v clear_a in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a through_o that_o their_o ignorance_n they_o be_v not_o in_o case_n clear_o and_o distinct_o but_o rather_o very_o dark_o and_o confuse_o to_o propose_v the_o matter_n to_o their_o conscience_n so_o that_o their_o conscience_n can_v give_v they_o a_o distinct_a answer_n for_o conscience_n be_v as_o i_o say_v before_o as_o a_o judge_n and_o our_o light_n be_v as_o the_o informer_n and_o as_o a_o judge_n can_v well_o decide_v in_o a_o matter_n when_o the_o case_n be_v confuse_o propose_v to_o he_o so_o no_o more_o can_v conscience_n when_o it_o want_v light_a and_o hence_o oftentimes_o person_n in_o who_o there_o be_v some_o zeal_n and_o good_a affection_n be_v leave_v much_o in_o the_o dark_a because_o to_o speak_v so_o they_o know_v not_o the_o law_n and_o practic_n on_o which_o conscience_n proceed_v therefore_o rom._n 14._o it_o be_v say_v of_o some_o that_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a because_o their_o light_n be_v weak_a and_o dim_a a_o second_o case_n be_v when_o man_n in_o seek_v the_o answer_n of_o their_o conscience_n do_v bind_v and_o limit_v it_o they_o either_o do_v not_o fair_o and_o full_o propose_v the_o case_n to_o conscience_n or_o they_o come_v not_o to_o it_o with_o one_fw-mi absolute_a submission_n suppose_v it_o to_o be_v thorough_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n concern_v the_o thing_n they_o will_v have_v clearness_n in_o and_o therefore_o they_o take_v the_o answer_n in_o part_n or_o but_o a_o part_n of_o the_o answer_n and_o suppose_v the_o rest_n or_o leave_v it_o to_o conscience_n to_o be_v determine_v as_o when_o man_n first_o resolve_v to_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o leave_v only_o the_o time_a of_o it_o to_o their_o conscience_n here_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v limit_v and_o make_v indistinct_a in_o its_o answer_n because_o it_o be_v prejudge_v and_o leave_v free_a it_o may_v possible_o have_v be_v somewhat_o not_o al●gether_o unlike_a this_o that_o be_v in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o israel_n their_o ask_n of_o god_n about_o the_o war_n against_o benjamin_n judge_n 20._o 18._o where_o they_o do_v not_o say_v at_o first_o shall_v we_o go_v up_o or_o shall_v we_o for-bear_a but_o first_o they_o say_v who_o shall_v go_v up_o a_o three_o case_n be_v when_o conscience_n be_v provoke_v by_o man_n former_a miscarriage_n than_o it_o may_v be_v silent_a and_o not_o answer_v now_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v provoke_v these_o too_o way_n among_o other_o 1._o when_o people_n use_v not_o ordinary_o to_o consult_v conscience_n but_o at_o some_o particular_a and_o solemn_a time_n only_o and_o when_o they_o be_v bring_v to_o some_o pinch_n or_o put_v to_o a_o stand_n but_o as_o for_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o their_o life_n they_o follow_v inclination_n or_o a_o common_a light_n without_o advise_v with_o conscience_n in_o that_o case_n when_o such_o person_n come_v to_o advise_v with_o conscience_n and_o to_o seek_v clearness_n from_o it_o about_o such_o a_o thing_n the_o lord_n may_v say_v to_o they_o as_o he_o do_v to_o his_o people_n judge_n 10._o 19_o go_v and_o cry_v to_o the_o god_n who_o you_o have_v choose_v go_v advise_v with_o they_o or_o as_o elisha_n say_v to_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n 2_o king_n 3._o 3._o what_o have_v i_o to_o do_v with_o thou_o get_v thou_o to_o the_o prophet_n of_o thy_o father_n and_o to_o the_o prophet_n of_o thy_o mother_n even_o so_o if_o conscience_n be_v pass_v by_o and_o miskent_a by_o people_n in_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o their_o life_n it_o will_v ready_o misken_fw-mi and_o slight_v they_o when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o strait_a and_o come_v to_o seek_v counsel_n and_o clearness_n from_o it_o and_o will_v on_o the_o matter_n say_v to_o they_o you_o follow_v the_o counsel_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n in_o your_o ordinary_a walk_n and_o course_n of_o life_n therefore_o in_o this_o particular_a i_o will_v not_o answer_v you_o go_v and_o seek_v clearness_n from_o they_o who_o you_o use_v to_o consult_v 2_o conscience_n be_v provoke_v when_o i_o have_v former_o thwart_v with_o some_o clear_a intimation_n or_o answer_n of_o conscience_n and_o have_v some_o way_n detain_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n make_v as_o it_o be_v a_o prisoner_n of_o it_o and_o set_v a_o guard_n of_o corrupt_a affection_n about_o it_o when_o such_o come_v again_o to_o inquire_v at_o conscience_n what_o they_o shall_v do_v in_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a they_o may_v just_o get_v such_o one_fw-mi answer_v as_o be_v give_v prov._n 1._o 24._o because_o i_o call_v and_o you_o refuse_v i_o stretch_v out_o my_o hand_n and_o no_o man_n regard_v but_o you_o set_v at_o nought_o all_o my_o counsel_n and_o will_v none_o of_o my_o reproof_n i_o will_v laugh_v at_o your_o calamity_n they_o shall_v call_v but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v i_o give_v you_o answer_v before_o and_o you_o thwart_v with_o they_o therefore_o when_o you_o seek_v again_o you_o shall_v get_v none_o and_o hence_o flow_v much_o blindness_n and_o be_v nummednesse_n of_o conscience_n in_o man_n and_o woman_n because_o they_o put_v out_o the_o eye_n thereof_o and_o frequent_o repel_v and_o beat_v back_o what_o it_o say_v or_o answer_n so_o that_o it_o become_v cauterise_v and_o the_o feel_n of_o it_o wear_v almost_o if_o not_o altogether_o away_o and_o it_o speak_v very_o little_a or_o none_o at_o all_o to_o they_o be_v so_o much_o baffle_v and_o blunt_v with_o many_o repulse_n we_o may_v add_v this_o three_o way_n how_o it_o be_v provoke_v and_o that_o be_v when_o its_o asking_n be_v slight_v it_o ask_v we_o why_o we_o do_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o forbear_v such_o and_o such_o another_o and_o we_o slight_v what_o it_o say_v and_o lie_v still_o in_o sin_n be_v it_o not_o just_a that_o conscience_n pay_v we_o home_o in_o our_o own_o measure_n and_o refuse_v to_o answer_v we_o when_o we_o ask_v it_o a_o four_o sinful_a cause_n on_o our_o part_n of_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n be_v when_o man_n come_v not_o single_o and_o in_o a_o spiritual_a frame_n to_o conscience_n to_o seek_v its_o answer_n and_o advice_n but_o either_o have_v an●_n idol_n s●t_v up_o before_o their_o eye_n and_o be_v almost_o already_o determine_v in_o the_o thing_n or_o else_o they_o bring_v with_o they_o some_o one_o or_o other_o lust_n unrepented_a of_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o though_o they_o think_v themselves_o submissive_a in_o that_o particular_a and_o possible_o may_v some_o way_n be_v so_o yet_o not_o be_v absolute_o submissive_a in_o all_o conscience_n keep_v silent_a to_o the_o former_a the_o lord_n some_o way_n say_v as_o he_o do_v to_o these_o man_n by_o the_o prophet_n ezekiel_n chap._n 14._o 2_o 3._o son_n of_o man_n these_o have_v set_v up_o their_o idol_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o put_v the_o stumble_a block_n of_o their_o iniquity_n before_o their_o face_n shall_v i_o be_v inquire_v at_o all_o by_o they_o when_o man_n come_v to_o seek_v light_n and_o bring_v their_o idol_n with_o they_o the_o lord_n that_o speak_v by_o the_o conscience_n will_v some_o time_n in_o that_o case_n not_o suffer_v it_o to_o speak_v a_o word_n the_o other_o be_v like_o that_o which_o we_o have_v psal._n 66_o 8._o if_o i_o regard_v iniquity_n in_o my_o heart_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o hear_v my_o prayer_n when_o man_n come_v in_o a_o profane_a temper_n and_o frame_v of_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o be_v not_o single_a and_o as_o i_o say_v absolute_o submissive_a conscience_n will_v not_o answer_v for_o conscience_n
there_o be_v nothing_o ready_o that_o more_o comfort_v he_o in_o a_o strait_n it_o be_v asleep_o singular_o good_a backfriend_n therefore_o when_o paul_n have_v few_o other_o friend_n he_o make_v use_v of_o this_o and_o find_v much_o peace_n and_o comfort_n from_o it_o and_o hence_o he_o say_v 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n to_o clear_v this_o in_o a_o word_n further_o it_o be_v in_o these_o three_o case_n exceed_v useful_a 1._o in_o the_o case_n of_o reproach_n i_o have_v say_v paul_n act_v 23._o 1._o live_v in_o all_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n until_o this_o day_n and_o 2_o tim_n 1._o 3._o i_o thank_v god_n who_o i_o serve_v with_o pure_a conscience_n from_o my_o forefather_n 2_o in_o the_o case_n of_o some_o notable_a cross_n when_o christian_n be_v bring_v very_o low_a in_o a_o great_a measure_n outward_o afflict_v or_o under_o great_a persecution_n this_o be_v say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o pet._n 2._o 19_o 20._o thank_v worthy_a if_o a_o man_n for_o conscience_n towards_o god_n endure_v grief_n suffer_v wrongful_o for_o what_o glory_n be_v it_o if_o when_o you_o be_v buffet_v for_o your_o fault_n you_o shall_v take_v it_o patient_o but_o if_o when_o you_o do_v well_o and_o suffer_v for_o it_o and_o take_v it_o patient_o this_o be_v acceptable_a with_o god_n 3_o it_o be_v useful_a and_o comfortable_a as_o to_o our_o own_o peace_n in_o the_o case_n of_o challenge_n for_o guilt_n it_o silence_v and_o shoulder_n out_o all_o challenge_n and_o give_v holy_a boldness_n if_o our_o heart_n or_o conscience_n condemn_v we_o not_o say_v john_n 1_o ep._n chap_n 3._o v._n 21._o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n the_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v we_o to_o be_v much_o in_o love_n with_o such_o a_o way_n as_o we_o may_v have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o it_o and_o to_o be_v much_o in_o love_n with_o such_o a_o conscience_n as_o may_v give_v we_o such_o a_o comfortable_a testimony_n in_o all_o our_o strait_n and_o difficulty_n more_o particular_o we_o shall_v speak_v to_o that_o which_o we_o main_o aim_v at_o in_o these_o four_o or_o five_o observation_n consider_v then_o first_o what_o paul_n be_v about_o here_o he_o be_v assert_v a_o truth_n viz._n that_o he_o be_v in_o great_a beavines_n for_o his_o brethren_n and_o kinsman_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n and_o he_o atte_v his_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v so_o and_o that_o he_o be_v honest_a and_o sincere_a in_o assert_v it_o whence_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v no_o action_n of_o a_o man_n life_n but_o conscience_n have_v a_o concern_v in_o it_o and_o have_v something_o to_o say_v to_o he_o concern_v it_o if_o it_o be_v but_o the_o speak_n of_o a_o word_n let_v be_v the_o do_v of_o any_o bussiness_n conscience_n have_v always_o something_o to_o say_v for_o he_o or_o against_o he_o so_o that_o we_o may_v confident_o say_v there_o be_v no_o action_n of_o so_o little_a moment_n in_o thought_n word_n or_o deed_n as_o whither_o a_o man_n be_v call_v to_o do_v or_o forbear_v to_o speak_v or_o to_o be_v silent_a but_o in_o all_o these_o conscience_n have_v a_o sense_n and_o consideration_n of_o it_o and_o a_o testimony_n to_o give_v for_o or_o against_o the_o man_n about_o it_o i_o be_o not_o now_o speak_v of_o thing_n sinful_a or_o unlawful_a on_o the_o matter_n but_o of_o such_o thing_n as_o on_o the_o matter_n be_v lawful_a as_o when_o a_o man_n speak_v truth_n whither_o he_o speak_v it_o true_o and_o with_o a_o honest_a intention_n or_o not_o therefore_o when_o paul_n be_v speak_v a_o truth_n here_o he_o look_v to_o his_o conscience_n and_o hearken_v what_o it_o say_v put_v these_o four_o together_o and_o you_o will_v find_v it_o clear_a that_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a and_o good_a frame_n will_v always_o have_v something_o to_o say_v for_o or_o against_o a_o man_n in_o every_o thing_n that_o he_o go_v about_o i_o say_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n because_o that_o be_v the_o conscience_n we_o be_v speak_v of_o and_o the_o conscience_n that_o most_o complete_o discharge_v its_o duty_n 1_o if_o we_o consider_v this_o that_o there_o be_v no_o humane_a action_n but_o god_n have_v give_v man_n a_o rule_n direct_v how_o it_o shall_v be_v order_v how_o he_o shall_v eat_v and_o how_o he_o shall_v drink_v how_o he_o shall_v plough_v pray_v hear_v read_v confer_v how_o he_o shall_v walk_v in_o company_n and_o out_o of_o company_n how_o he_o shall_v go_v about_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o call_v and_o it_o prescribe_v the_o manner_n of_o do_v these_o thing_n as_o well_o as_o the_o matter_n therefore_o 1_o tim._n 3._o 16_o 1●_n it_o be_v say_v all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n and_o for_o correction_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v unto_o every_o good_a work_n it_o furnish_v he_o with_o light_n and_o direction_n not_o only_a in_o the_o matter_n as_o ●_o say_v but_o in_o the_o manner_n of_o do_v 2._o 〈◊〉_d that_o a_o man_n in_o all_o his_o action_n be_v either_o walk_v according_a and_o agreeable_o to_o t●at_a rule_n or_o not_o his_o action_n be_v ei●her_o conform_v or_o disconform_v to_o the_o rule_n there_o be_v not_o a_o mid_n he_o either_o do_v according_a to_o it_o or_o he_o do_v not_o according_a to_o it_o if_o he_o do_v the_o action_n as_o the_o word_n prescribe_v conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v for_o he_o if_o no●_n it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v against_o he_o 3._o 〈◊〉_d that_o in_o all_o action_n as_o they_o be_v ●one_n or_o perform_v and_o as_o 〈◊〉_d god_n be_v either_o please_v or_o displease_v if_o the_o action_n be_v do_v according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o be_v please_v if_o it_o be_v not_o do_v according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o be_v displease_v 4._o con●ider_v that_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n take_v up_o a_o man_n action_n and_o consider_v he_o in_o they_o not_o according_a to_o the_o matter_n only_o bu●_n also_o as_o they_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o rule_n for_o the_o manner_n principle_n motive_n and_o end_n and_o testifi_v of_o they_o according_o so_o that_o if_o god_n have_v a_o interest_n in_o all_o a_o man_n action_n a_o sanctify_a conscience_n have_v also_o a_o interest_n in_o they_o i_o say_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n because_o it_o most_o single_o plea●eth_v god_n interest_n this_o be_v true_a also_o of_o a_o natural_a conscience_n according_a to_o its_o light_n for_o even_o such_o a_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 2._o 5._o bear_v witness_v and_o the_o gentile_n show_v the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n write_v in_o their_o heat●s_n their_o conscience_n also_o bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n in_o the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o and_o there_o be_v no_o natural_a man_n if_o he_o take_v heed_n to_o his_o conscience_n in_o the_o do_n of_o any_o action_n but_o will_v find_v conscience_n according_a to_o its_o light_n speak_v either_o for_o he_o or_o against_o he_o either_o accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v he_o but_o this_o be_v much_o more_o to_o be_v find_v be_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n because_o it_o have_v much_o more_o light_n and_o much_o more_o tenderness_n to_o act_v according_a ●o_o that_o light_n and_o therefore_o it_o will_v find_v itself_o much_o more_o concern_v in_o the_o action_n of_o a_o believer_n the_o first_o use_n be_v for_o information_n and_o instruction_n in_o a_o ma●n_n practical_a point_n of_o religion_n relate_v to_o man_n conversation_n most_o man_n 〈◊〉_d think_v that_o conscience_n be_v not_o concern_v except_o in_o some_o great_a thing_n some_o palpable_o sinful_a thing_n or_o some_o thing_n immediate_o relate_v to_o religion_n and_o that_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n they_o may_v live_v as_o they_o like_v without_o take_v notice_n of_o conscience_n but_o ●_o s●y_o and_o have_v clear_v it_o that_o conscience_n have_v ●n_v 〈◊〉_d and_o concern_v in_o every_o action_n not_o only_o as_o to_o put_v man_n to_o undertake_v it_o whereof_o we_o speak_v before_o but_o also_o as_o to_o their_o manner_n of_o perform_v the_o same_o it_o not_o only_o put_v a_o man_n to_o think_v speak_v or_o do_v but_o it_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o think_n speak_a and_o do_v conscience_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v viz._n that_o we_o be_v either_o right_a or_o wrong_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o all_o a_o christian_a man_n action_n may_v be_v take_v up_o in_o a_o twofold_a respect_n or_o under_o a_o twofold_a consideration_n 1._o
both_o of_o they_o offer_v thing_n that_o be_v good_a and_o yet_o the_o one_o sacrifice_n be_v accept_v and_o the_o other_o reject_v that_o which_o make_v the_o difference_n be_v that_o abel_n in_o his_o offer_n exercise_v faith_n on_o christ_n sacrifice_n he_o offer_v it_o not_o as_o a_o satisfaction_n in_o itself_o to_o god_n but_o with_o respect_n to_o jesus_n christ_n typify_v by_o it_o which_o the_o other_o do_v not_o and_o proportional_o there_o be_v somewhat_o require_v of_o all_o these_o and_o more_o especial_o of_o this_o last_o in_o all_o action_n to_o make_v they_o true_o religious_a and_o christian_a action_n now_o for_o the_o second_o particular_a viz._n that_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n that_o make_v a_o action_n to_o be_v true_o religious_a conscience_n have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v and_o have_v a_o interest_n and_o concern_v to_o testify_v for_o or_o against_o the_o man_n i_o shall_v instance_n this_o in_o six●orts_n ●orts_z of_o action_n to_o which_o all_o a_o man_n action_n i_o mean_v that_o be_v proper_o human_a action_n or_o rationaly_a deliberate_a action_n may_v be_v reduce_v as_o to_o so_o many_o general_a head_n the_o first_o sort_n be_v natural_a action_n as_o eat_v drink_v sleep_v etc._n etc._n in_o which_o what_o ever_o many_o think_v to_o the_o contrary_a conscience_n have_v a_o interest_n because_o they_o require_v the_o propose_v of_o god_n glory_n as_o their_o end_n and_o he_o have_v prescribe_v a_o way_n how_o to_o go_v about_o they_o aright_o the_o second_o sort_v be_v civil_a action_n as_o man_n be_v exercise_v in_o this_o or_o that_o lawful_a employment_n trade_n call_v or_o occupation_n and_o here_o conscience_n have_v a_o interest_n for_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o plough_v of_o the_o wicked_a be_v sin_n which_o when_o go_v about_o after_o the_o right_a manner_n by_o the_o believer_n be_v service_n to_o god_n as_o well_o as_o his_o pray_n the_o 3d._a sort_n be_v moral_a action_n such_o as_o be_v do_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o moral_a honesty_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n barg●neth_v and_o make_v a_o promise_n anen●_n such_o and_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v perform_v by_o he_o to_o keep_v his_o word_n which_o be_v moral_o good_a yet_o be_v it_o not_o true_o religious_o and_o christianly_o good_a except_o it_o be_v do_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o honour_n and_o here_o also_o conscience_n have_v interest_n for_o as_o a_o man_n come_v short_a of_o these_o thing_n requisite_a for_o make_v it_o a_o true_o religious_a or_o christian_a action_n it_o will_v challenge_v and_o accuse_v in_o so_o far_o and_o when_o they_o be_v present_a it_o will_v excuse_v and_o commend_v he_o the_o four_o sort_n be_v external_n duty_n of_o religion_n what_o be_v it_o i_o pray_v that_o make_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o formal_a and_o hypocritical_a service_n and_o worship_n and_o that_o which_o be_v accept_v as_o service_n to_o god_n be_v it_o not_o that_o one_o person_n perform_v such_o duty_n conscionable_o and_o christianly_o according_a to_o the_o rule_v prescribe_v anent_o the_o right_n perform_v of_o they_o and_o another_o not_o the_o 5_o sort_n be_v inward_a duty_n or_o grace_n such_o as_o repentance_n faith_n love_n hope_v etc._n etc._n of_o all_o which_o there_o be_v counterfeits_n some_o thing_n very_o like_o they_o which_o yet_o be_v not_o indeed_o these_o conscience_n have_v here_o likeways_o a_o concern_v and_o make_v a_o difference_n as_o suppose_v two_o man_n be_v ●orty_fw-la for_o sin_n and_o we_o ma●_n suppose_v they_o to_o be_v someway_o alike_o or_o equal_o sorrowful_a and_o yet_o the_o sorrow_n of_o the_o one_o be_v account_v the_o grace_n of_o repentance_n and_o the_o other_o not_o because_o of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o requ●sits_n of_o gospel_n or_o gracious_a sorrow_n or_o sorrow_n after_o a_o godly_a ●ort_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o 2_o cor._n 7._o v._n 11._o so_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o other_o grace_n where_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v and_o accuse_v or_o excu●e_v and_o approve_v according_o the_o 6_o sort_v of_o action_n be_v passive_a to_o speak_v so_o or_o suffering_n wherein_o conscience_n have_v a_o concern_v and_o tell_v the_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v suffer_v as_o a_o christian_a from_o such_o a_o principle_n and_o for_o such_o end_n which_o he_o through_o grace_n endeavour_v to_o do_v conscience_n speak_v peace_n to_o he_o and_o though_o another_o man_n suffer_v the_o same_o very_a thing_n yet_o he_o may_v want_v that_o testimony_n because_o he_o want_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o his_o suffering_n be_v destitute_a of_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v never_o think_v a_o thing_n to_o be_v of_o so_o little_a moment_n that_o conscience_n have_v no_o concern_n in_o it_o we_o can_v do_v speak_v think_v nor_o look_v but_o conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v of_o that_o deed_n word_n thought_n or_o look_v as_o it_o be_v circumstantiat_fw-la either_o to_o accuse_v if_o not_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v or_o to_o excuse_v and_o approve_v if_o right_a as_o to_o its_o requisit_n the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o trial_n of_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctified_a frame_n and_o for_o difference_v it_o from_o another_o conscience_n that_o be_v not_o so_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n be_v always_o meddle_v with_o all_o the_o man_n action_n not_o only_a when_o he_o be_v pray_v hear_v read_v or_o confer_v ●o_o a_o spiritual_a purpose_n but_o also_o when_o he_o be_v buy_v or_o sell_v eat_v or_o drink_v speak_v or_o keep_v silent_a abroad_o or_o at_o home_n alone_o or_o in_o company_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v very_o like_a that_o paul_n have_v say_v many_o thing_n when_o he_o be_v a_o pharisee_n that_o his_o conscience_n meddle_v not_o much_o with_o but_o now_o be_v a_o serious_a christian_a he_o can_v speak_v nor_o write_v but_o his_o conscience_n medle_n with_o it_o in_o a_o word_n a_o sanctify_a conscience_n be_v always_o go_v along_o with_o a_o man_n be_v still_o with_o he_o and_o let_v he_o know_v that_o it_o be_v with_o he_o and_o a_o sanctify_a man_n will_v needs_o have_v and_o love_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n constant_o with_o he_o the_o word_n conscience_n in_o the_o original_a be_v significant_a and_o say_v this_o much_o that_o when_o it_o be_v right_a the_o christian_a and_o it_o be_v join_v together_o whereas_o a_o unsanctified_a man_n part_v company_n as_o it_o be_v with_o his_o conscience_n he_o love_v not_o to_o take_v it_o he_o will_v not_o take_v it_o with_o he_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n to_o he_o he_o will_v ●ain_o be_v rid_v of_o its_o company_n and_o it_o often_o refuse_v to_o go_v along_o with_o he_o it_o be_v never_o the_o worst_a conscience_n that_o be_v often_o meddle_v provide_v it_o be_v own_v and_o listen_v to_o when_o it_o meddle_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n meddle_v 1._o constant_o 2._o it_o meddle_v in_o all_o sort_n of_o thing_n it_o put_v the_o man_n when_o he_o have_v speak_v to_o search_v his_o heart_n whether_o he_o think_v as_o he_o say_v 3._o it_o speak_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o interest_n itself_o on_o god_n account_n clean_o spiritual_o and_o impartial_o without_o all_o by-respect_n to_o the_o man_n the_o 3d_o use_n be_v for_o reproof_n to_o these_o that_o misken_fw-mi conscience_n and_o take_v none_o at_o all_o or_o but_o very_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o in_o the_o most_o part_n of_o their_o life_n ah_o how_o few_o be_v they_o that_o think_v and_o believe_v that_o conscience_n be_v concern_v in_o all_o their_o word_n and_o action_n and_o as_o for_o thought_n they_o be_v look_v on_o by_o such_o as_o free_v and_o therefore_o they_o never_o look_v what_o it_o say_v of_o they_o and_o so_o spoil_v themselves_o of_o its_o testimony_n and_o lose_v their_o labour_n in_o not_o respect_v it_o the_o four_o use_n be_v of_o exhortation_n and_o we_o will_v serious_o exhort_v you_o all_o to_o amend_v this_o great_a fault_n reprove_v viz._n the_o misregard_v of_o conscience_n and_o to_o respect_v conscience_n in_o every_o thing_n and_o to_o regard_v it_o more_o in_o your_o go_v out_o and_o come_n in_o in_o solitude_n and_o society_n in_o every_o thing_n you_o do_v suffer_v not_o yourselves_o to_o be_v cheat_v into_o a_o groundless_a apprehension_n that_o any_o of_o your_o action_n even_o the_o common_a as_o circumstantiat_fw-la be_v of_o so_o little_a moment_n that_o conscience_n have_v no_o concern_n in_o they_o and_o if_o it_o have_v than_o i_o beseech_v you_o take_v heed_n what_o it_o say_v and_o whether_o it_o testify_v for_o or_o against_o you_o and_o do_v not_o think_v that_o conscience_n be_v officious_a and_o medle_n in_o a_o business_n that_o concern_v
it_o not_o except_o you_o think_v that_o there_o be_v some_o part_n of_o your_o life_n that_o shall_v not_o at_o all_o be_v religious_a but_o that_o you_o be_v leave_v in_o they_o to_o live_v as_o you_o list_v it_o be_v ofttimes_o our_o fault_n that_o we_o limit_v conscience_n to_o this_o and_o that_o particular_a action_n that_o be_v of_o some_o considerable_a concernment_n and_o some_o way_n shut_v it_o out_o as_o have_v no_o concern_n in_o these_o of_o lesser_a moment_n and_o many_o alace_o shoulder_n it_o out_o from_o the_o tract_n of_o their_o life_n and_o current_n of_o their_o action_n o_o let_v this_o by_o any_o mean_n be_v amend_v sermon_n ii_o rome_n 9_o 1._o i_o say_v the_o truth_n in_o christ_n i_o lie_v not_o my_o conscience_n also_o bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n christian_n who_o have_v such_o a_o vigilant_a and_o constant_a attendant_n as_o conscience_n wait_v on_o they_o have_v much_o need_n of_o watchfulness_n that_o they_o may_v be_v keep_v in_o some_o suitableness_n of_o frame_n for_o entertain_v that_o companion_n conscience_n its_o work_n be_v not_o only_o to_o be_v advise_v and_o deliberate_v what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v but_o also_o to_o be_v wait_v on_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o act_n and_o perform_v of_o what_o it_o have_v be_v advise_v to_o and_o it_o be_v indeed_o no_o less_o practic_a to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o in_o the_o perform_n of_o duty_n than_o it_o be_v in_o take_v some_o pain_n to_o consult_v it_o and_o advise_v with_o it_o at_o the_o undertake_n thereof_o so_o as_o we_o may_v be_v answerable_a to_o conscience_n as_o to_o both_o ofttimes_o some_o pain_n will_v be_v take_v in_o deliberate_v and_o advise_v with_o conscience_n what_o and_o when_o we_o shall_v do_v when_o we_o will_v exceed_o relent_v in_o take_v it_o along_o with_o we_o in_o the_o performance_n whence_o it_o frequent_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o we_o lose_v the_o peace_n we_o gain_v in_o advise_v with_o conscience_n at_o our_o undertake_n the_o action_n by_o not_o carry_v it_o along_o with_o we_o in_o perform_v this_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o propose_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o from_o this_o verse_n viz._n the_o influence_n that_o conscience_n have_v on_o man_n act_n and_o the_o respect_n that_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v to_o it_o not_o only_o before_o they_o undertake_v any_o action_n but_o in_o and_o along_o the_o perform_n of_o it_o the_o last_o doctrine_n we_o speak_v to_o from_o it_o be_v that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o action_n of_o a_o man_n life_n but_o conscience_n be_v concern_v in_o it_o and_o have_v something_o to_o say_v concern_v it_o for_o or_o against_o he_o if_o it_o be_v but_o the_o speak_n of_o a_o word_n or_o the_o assert_v of_o any_o truth_n as_o we_o see_v in_o this_o instance_n of_o paul_n his_o conscience_n bear_v he_o witness_v it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v to_o he_o anent_o his_o do_v it_o we_o clear_v this_o in_o several_a yea_o rather_o in_o all_o sort_n of_o action_n that_o man_n have_v to_o perform_v there_o be_v none_o of_o they_o of_o so_o little_a moment_n so_o extrinsic_a or_o so_o indifferent_a but_o in_o the_o perform_n of_o they_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v carry_v along_o as_o have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v for_o or_o against_o the_o performer_n we_o shall_v now_o add_v some_o four_o or_o five_o observation_n more_o from_o the_o word_n and_o the_o first_o which_o we_o may_v either_o take_v as_o a_o use_v of_o the_o former_a or_o as_o a_o distinct_a observation_n by_o itself_o be_v this_o that_o man_n in_o the_o time_n of_o their_o go_v about_o any_o thing_n will_v advert_v and_o take_v heed_n to_o that_o sense_n which_o conscience_n have_v of_o their_o action_n and_o see_v it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v they_o will_v be_v lend_v to_o their_o ear_n all_o along_o the_o time_n of_o their_o perform_v the_o action_n and_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v as_o before_o they_o undertake_v they_o will_v advise_v with_o conscience_n that_o they_o be_v right_a so_o in_o the_o time_n of_o performance_n there_o will_v be_v a_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n to_o know_v its_o sense_n of_o our_o do_v paul_n be_v now_o speak_v and_o assert_v somewhat_o and_o he_o reflect_v on_o his_o conscience_n to_o hear_v what_o it_o will_v say_v and_o that_o he_o may_v get_v its_o testimony_n that_o he_o be_v speak_v sincere_o he_o be_v not_o now_o advise_v with_o conscience_n to_o know_v what_o he_o shall_v do_v nor_o to_o get_v its_o censure_n of_o what_o he_o have_v do_v but_o in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o his_o do_v he_o reflect_v and_o take_v notice_n what_o it_o say_v he_o assert_v that_o he_o be_v speak_v truth_n and_o take_v a_o look_n into_o his_o conscience_n to_o see_v if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o that_o he_o be_v indeed_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o true_o or_o we_o may_v take_v the_o doctrine_n thus_o it_o be_v a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n in_o a_o christian_a not_o only_o to_o deliberate_v with_o conscience_n before_o he_o do_v any_o thing_n and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v it_o to_o take_v its_o censure_n if_o it_o be_v right_o do_v but_o also_o to_o reflect_v upon_o his_o conscience_n in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o his_o do_v of_o it_o and_o to_o hear_v what_o it_o will_v say_v of_o that_o which_o he_o be_v now_o do_v and_o of_o himself_o in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o and_o we_o conceive_v that_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o main_a thing_n mean_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n when_o conscience_n be_v put_v to_o it_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o duty_n to_o know_v what_o it_o will_v say_v concern_v the_o man_n and_o his_o action_n for_o if_o so_o be_v that_o conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v concern_v every_o duty_n for_o or_o against_o the_o man_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 2._o 15_o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_n and_o their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o than_o it_o will_v clear_o follow_v that_o it_o be_v a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o christian_n duty_n to_o keep_v fair_a with_o his_o conscience_n here_o and_o to_o take_v good_a heed_n what_o it_o say_v in_o the_o very_a interim_n and_o mean_a time_n of_o his_o perform_v every_o action_n yea_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o christian_n walk_v but_o a_o main_a evidence_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n in_o a_o christian_a viz._n when_o he_o do_v not_o only_o aim_v to_o be_v clear_a in_o undertake_v a_o duty_n but_o to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o with_o he_o and_o to_o know_v what_o it_o say_v in_o follow_v forth_o the_o duty_n take_v these_o two_o or_o three_o word_n for_o clear_v it_o first_o consider_v that_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o our_o action_n and_o duty_n or_o the_o make_n of_o they_o such_o as_o they_o shall_v be_v depend_v very_o much_o on_o the_o nick_n of_o our_o discharge_v they_o so_o that_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v deliberat_fw-la never_o so_o well_o before_o if_o he_o be_v in_o a_o carnal_a frame_n or_o have_v a_o selfie_v end_n ●o_o the_o time_n of_o performance_n he_o will_v be_v at_o a_o loss_n of_o his_o peace_n and_o much_o miss_v his_o mark_n as_o the_o apostle_n have_v the_o word_n philip._n 3._o 13._o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n in_o his_o aim_v at_o holiness_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n he_o levell_v all_o his_o action_n at_o that_o mark_n the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n i_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o this_o similitude_n for_o illustrate_v it_o let_v a_o man_n with_o a_o bow_n or_o musket_n level_v never_o so_o well_o or_o take_v never_o so_o just_a a_o visie_n if_o his_o hand_n waver_v in_o the_o instant_n of_o shoot_v he_o can_v ready_o hit_v the_o mark_n even_o so_o though_o a_o man_n as_o i_o say_v deliberate_a and_o advise_v never_o so_o well_o with_o his_o conscience_n before_o he_o do_v a_o thing_n if_o in_o the_o time_n of_o do_v he_o take_v not_o heed_n tender_o and_o steady_o to_o it_o but_o fall_v carnal_a and_o selfie_v in_o it_o he_o can_v have_v peace_n as_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o that_o action_n 2_o consider_v that_o we_o be_v so_o very_o tickle_v in_o our_o frame_n as_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n be_v some_o way_n in_o themselves_o and_o our_o heart_n so_o unstable_a light_a and_o frothy_a that_o though_o we_o shall_v level_v they_o right_o just_a now_o yet_o they_o will_v be_v ready_a quick_o to_o start_v aside_o as_o a_o deceitful_a how_o upon_o out_o hand_n it_o can_v therefore_o be_v sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n to_o deliberat_fw-la in_o undertake_v except_o a_o man_n observe_v and_o reflect_v on_o his_o
conscience_n and_o study_v to_o carry_v it_o along_o with_o he_o in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o his_o act_n our_o heart_n be_v like_a to_o a_o distemper_a clock_n or_o watch_n which_o be_v just_a now_o set_v never_o so_o right_a ere_o we_o be_v aware_a it_o will_v go_v wrong_a it_o will_v point_v the_o hour_n aright_o now_o and_o within_o a_o little_a it_o be_v quite_o out_o of_o course_n because_o there_o be_v some_o defect_n or_o fault_n within_o the_o wheel_n not_o be_v even_o or_o the_o balance_n not_o just_o poise_v or_o some_o other_o such_o cause_n even_o so_o though_o our_o heart_n be_v in_o a_o suitable_a frame_n just_a now_o present_o and_o ere_o we_o turn_v we_o about_o as_o it_o be_v it_o be_v out_o of_o frame_n so_o that_o we_o can_v well_o take_v our_o aim_n from_o it_o it_o be_v so_o very_o deceitful_a that_o it_o abide_v not_o in_o frame_n 3_o consider_v that_o unless_o this_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n in_o the_o time_n of_o perform_v the_o action_n or_o duty_n be_v a_o man_n will_v be_v at_o a_o loss_n of_o one_o of_o these_o two_o he_o will_v either_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n as_o to_o his_o ●ober_a compose_a and_o holy_a frame_n and_o turn_v carnal_a which_o be_v frequent_o and_o ready_o incident_a even_o to_o believer_n or_o he_o will_v be_v at_o a_o loss_n as_o to_o the_o confidence_n boldness_n and_o peace_n that_o he_o may_v otherwise_o have_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o such_o a_o action_n or_o duty_n for_o suppose_v a_o person_n to_o be_v in_o a_o good_a frame_n after_o he_o have_v resolve_v on_o a_o duty_n let_v it_o be_v for_o instance_n speak_v to_o edification_n go_v about_o prayer_n or_o the_o make_n of_o some_o lawful_a bargain_n or_o the_o like_a and_o he_o have_v abundant_a light_n and_o clearness_n in_o his_o call_n to_o the_o thing_n yet_o if_o he_o look_v not_o to_o and_o reflect_v not_o on_o conscience_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o duty_n when_o a_o challenge_n come_v on_o the_o back_n of_o it_o as_o if_o he_o have_v be_v wrong_n he_o can_v well_o answer_v nor_o repel_v it_o his_o be_v right_o be_v to_o he_o in_o that_o case_n in_o some_o respect_n little_a or_o no_o better_a than_o if_o he_o have_v be_v wrong_n because_o he_o observe_v not_o conscience_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o action_n and_o this_o be_v one_o great_a reason_n no_o doubt_n why_o believer_n have_v so_o little_a positive_a peace_n when_o they_o have_v do_v a_o good_a turn_n because_o they_o do_v not_o advert_v what_o conscience_n say_v to_o they_o in_o their_o go_n about_o it_o they_o be_v hereby_o also_o great_o at_o a_o lose_v as_o to_o many_o sweet_a experience_n of_o god_n kindness_n and_o condescend_v in_o assist_v they_o and_o of_o their_o own_o singleness_n win_v at_o through_o grace_n in_o the_o perform_n of_o duty_n and_o we_o think_v also_o that_o christian_n live_v so_o much_o by_o a_o negative_a peace_n to_o speak_v so_o flow_v much_o from_o this_o ground_n viz._n their_o little_a reflect_v in_o the_o time_n of_o their_o do_v duty_n if_o once_o they_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o thing_n whither_o they_o be_v suitable_o serious_a and_o sincere_a in_o it_o and_o so_o let_v the_o opportunity_n go_v by_o they_o be_v not_o so_o thorough_o clear_a in_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v evidence_n of_o a_o positive_a peace_n in_o do_v of_o such_o a_o duty_n right_o as_o they_o may_v otherways_o be_v the_o first_a use_n serve_v to_o give_v you_o a_o evidence_n and_o mark_v of_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o of_o a_o man_n that_o be_v tender_a in_o his_o walk_n he_o be_v such_o a_o man_n that_o will_v not_o only_o ask_v his_o conscience_n ere_o he_o begin_v a_o action_n but_o when_o he_o be_v a_o do_v of_o it_o what_o it_o think_v of_o it_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n that_o a_o tender_a christian_a will_v reflect_v upon_o in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o do_v a_o action_n or_o duty_n 1._o he_o will_v reflect_v upon_o his_o manner_n of_o perform_v it_o whither_o it_o be_v a_o natural_a action_n such_o as_o eat_v and_o drink_v a_o civil_a action_n such_o as_o buy_v and_o sell_v a_o religious_a action_n such_o as_o pray_v or_o hear_v etc._n etc._n he_o will_v look_v that_o in_o they_o all_o he_o be_v single_a that_o his_o eat_v and_o drink_v be_v to_o fit_v he_o to_o serve_v god_n that_o in_o his_o buy_v and_o sell_v he_o seek_v not_o only_o his_o own_o thing_n but_o the_o good_a of_o his_o neighbour_n as_o well_o as_o his_o own_o good_a that_o in_o his_o pray_v or_o hear_v he_o be_v sincere_a that_o it_o be_v in_o faith_n and_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n 2_o he_o will_v reflect_v on_o himself_o in_o the_o perform_n of_o his_o action_n that_o he_o be_v in_o a_o right_a frame_n that_o he_o be_v tender_a and_o sincere_a that_o some_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v on_o he_o that_o his_o spirit_n be_v sober_a and_o compose_v that_o a_o carnal_a frame_n steal_v not_o in_o upon_o he_o in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o do_v a_o warrantable_a action_n or_o a_o command_v duty_n because_o that_o will_v mar_v it_o 3_o he_o will_v reflect_v upon_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o may_v hear_v what_o it_o say_v of_o the_o action_n he_o will_v not_o as_o it_o be_v take_v his_o testimony_n from_o himself_o but_o conscience_n be_v as_o a_o distinct_a thing_n some_o way_n from_o himself_o he_o will_v hear_v what_o it_o say_v as_o paul_n do_v here_o it_o be_v truth_n which_o he_o speak_v and_o he_o speak_v it_o in_o the_o right_a manner_n and_o yet_o he_o take_v a_o look_n of_o his_o conscience_n if_o he_o be_v do_v so_o in_o very_a deed_n to_o wit_n sincere_o as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n yea_o more_o he_o take_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o and_o thus_o here_o he_o look_v not_o to_o nor_o reflect_v on_o his_o conscience_n to_o alter_v any_o piece_n of_o his_o way_n but_o to_o have_v its_o sense_n of_o that_o piece_n of_o it_o he_o gather_v that_o the_o action_n be_v good_a from_o the_o word_n and_o he_o inquire_v if_o he_o be_v and_o collect_v that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o the_o performance_n from_o his_o conscience_n testify_v according_a to_o the_o word_n so_o that_o he_o will_v not_o trust_v himself_o but_o go_v to_o conscience_n as_o be_v more_o impartial_a to_o take_v its_o testimony_n the_o reason_n then_o as_o i_o say_v before_o why_o few_o christian_n have_v solid_a peace_n be_v this_o if_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o action_n be_v good_a and_o if_o they_o can_v answer_v their_o light_n therein_o they_o reflect_v but_o little_a on_o their_o conscience_n in_o the_o perform_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o want_v much_o of_o the_o peace_n and_o consolation_n that_o may_v otherwise_o accompany_v they_o in_o their_o action_n and_o when_o they_o be_v do_v and_o over_o and_o this_o evidence_n of_o tenderness_n kythe_n rather_o when_o a_o man_n be_v in_o the_o act_n then_o either_o before_o or_o after_o for_o fear_n or_o awe_n may_v make_v a_o man_n seek_v light_a before_o a_o action_n and_o a_o challenge_n may_v put_v he_o to_o reflect_v and_o examine_v when_o he_o have_v do_v but_o here_o main_o lie_v the_o evidence_n of_o sincerity_n and_o tenderness_n when_o in_o every_o step_n all_o along_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n so_o far_o as_o be_v requisite_a and_o humane_a infirmity_n will_v admit_v he_o take_v heed_n what_o he_o be_v do_v and_o as_o we_o say_v the_o other_o day_n that_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o tender_a conscience_n to_o be_v always_o meddle_v in_o every_o thing_n that_o a_o man_n do_v so_o we_o say_v now_o that_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o tender_a man_n to_o listen_v and_o hear_v what_o censure_n his_o conscience_n pass_v on_o he_o in_o perform_v his_o action_n the_o 2d_o use_v be_v for_o reproof_n ah_o may_v we_o not_o find_v but_o by_o overly_o reflection_n if_o we_o do_v advise_v with_o conscience_n at_o our_o undertake_n of_o such_o a_o work_n or_o duty_n that_o yet_o in_o the_o time_n of_o do_v it_o there_o be_v but_o little_o reflect_v on_o our_o conscience_n if_o it_o do_v bear_v we_o witness_v of_o our_o sincerity_n in_o go_v about_o it_o how_o many_o time_n will_v man_n and_o woman_n be_v find_v eat_v drink_v buy_v sell_v go_v or_o ride_v a_o lawful_a journey_n speak_v of_o a_o sermon_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o in_o these_o action_n but_o seldom_o or_o never_o look_v in_o if_o they_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n that_o they_o be_v right_a in_o their_o go_v about_o of_o these_o thing_n can_v this_o i_o pray_v speak_v a_o tender_a frame_n that_o be_v so_o
neglective_a of_o conscience_n it_o be_v certain_o a_o evidence_n of_o one_fw-mi untender_a frame_n in_o believer_n and_o where_o ever_o it_o be_v habitual_a and_o regnant_a it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o evil_a state_n for_o if_o one_o be_v a_o tender_a christian_a when_o shall_v his_o conscience_n be_v tender_a if_o not_o in_o the_o nick_n of_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o action_n for_o that_o be_v the_o time_n when_o he_o will_v or_o shall_v be_v level_v lest_o he_o miss_v the_o mark_n and_o know_v how_o fickle_a and_o unconstant_a he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o heart_n like_o a_o unsteady_a hand_n how_o shall_v he_o guard_v against_o its_o levity_n and_o unstablenesse_n the_o 3d._n use_v be_v of_o exhortation_n to_o advert_v more_o to_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n in_o perform_v duty_n o_o learn_v to_o reflect_v on_o yourselves_o in_o every_o thing_n and_o to_o ask_v yourselves_o what_o you_o be_v do_v that_o you_o may_v know_v if_o you_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n if_o wrong_n that_o you_o may_v take_v with_o it_o and_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o if_o right_a that_o you_o may_v be_v comfort_v in_o it_o we_o conceive_v this_o will_v be_v a_o notable_a guard_n to_o tenderness_n and_o keep_v communion_n with_o god_n and_o a_o sovereign_a help_n to_o prevent_v many_o sin_n and_o much_o hypocrisy_n in_o our_o way_n of_o do_v thing_n even_o to_o be_v take_v exact_a notice_n if_o we_o be_v indeed_o do_v that_o which_o we_o profess_v to_o be_v do_v if_o we_o be_v speak_v to_o edification_n if_o we_o be_v pray_v in_o earnest_n when_o we_o pretend_v to_o be_v pray_v etc._n etc._n 2_o observe_v that_o when_o conscience_n be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o to_o the_o man_n that_o perform_v it_o and_o speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o he_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o paul_n con_n science_n do_v here_o he_o be_v sincere_a in_o the_o thing_n that_o he_o assert_n and_o it_o bear_v he_o witness_v of_o his_o sincerity_n when_o he_o advert_v to_o it_o first_o i_o say_v conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n and_o sense_n of_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v well_o please_v and_o can_v speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o the_o man_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o mind_n at_o any_o time_n but_o when_o it_o be_v well_o plea●ed_v it_o signify_v it_o by_o testify_v for_o the_o man_n and_o 2_o i_o say_v that_o not_o only_o do_v it_o testify_v its_o satisfaction_n with_o the_o action_n but_o with_o every_o thing_n in_o it_o when_o there_o be_v a_o right_a end_n a_o right_a motive_n and_o a_o right_a manner_n of_o performance_n when_o christ_n be_v due_o respect_v in_o it_o and_o make_v use_v of_o for_o strength_n and_o acceptance_n and_o 3_o i_o add_v this_o if_o man_n advert_v to_o it_o and_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v because_o it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v always_o yet_o man_n will_v not_o hear_v nor_o know_v what_o it_o say_v except_o they_o advert_v well_o and_o reflect_v and_o take_v good_a heed_n to_o it_o 3_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v very_o strengthen_v confirm_v comfort_a refresh_a and_o satisfy_v to_o a_o man_n in_o a_o particular_a action_n to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o this_o bear_v paul_n through_o here_o amid_o all_o challenge_n that_o may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o seek_v of_o himself_o or_o from_o follow_v revenge_n in_o what_o he_o assert_n there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n say_v he_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v of_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v not_o a_o man_n action_n simple_o that_o will_v give_v he_o boldness_n confidence_n and_o comfort_n for_o several_a person_n may_v concur_v in_o one_o and_o the_o self_n same_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n and_o yet_o some_o may_v have_v a_o good_a 〈◊〉_d other_o a_o evil_a conscience_n in_o it_o be_v it_o but_o as_o to_o a_o man_n thought_n and_o opinion_n of_o himself_o for_o it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o commend_v himself_o but_o he_o who_o god_n commend_v that_o be_v approven_v when_o conscience_n i_o say_v bear_v witness_n for_o a_o man_n it_o be_v a_o very_a strengthen_n confirm_v and_o satisfy_v thing_n the_o reason_n be_v 1._o because_o conscience_n be_v the_o more_o single_a and_o impartial_a judge_n and_o witness_n and_o therefore_o a_o man_n may_v lay_v the_o more_o weight_n on_o it_o 2_o because_o conscience_n speak_v and_o bear_v witness_n with_o respect_n to_o god_n and_o when_o it_o testify_v on_o solid_a ground_n it_o be_v god_n testimony_n now_o when_o a_o debate_n arise_v in_o a_o man_n about_o any_o of_o his_o action_n the_o man_n himself_o be_v the_o party_n arraign_v the_o challenge_n or_o tentation_n be_v the_o party_n accuse_v and_o conscience_n be_v as_o the_o witness_n or_o judge_n that_o decide_v and_o be_v unbiased_n it_o bear_v witness_n and_o pass_v the_o sentence_n true_o and_o impartial_o it_o as_o it_o be_v say_v it_o be_v true_a he_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o sincere_o and_o i_o know_v that_o his_o thought_n and_o intention_n be_v honest_a and_o thus_o conscience_n decide_v the_o debate_n in_o his_o favour_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v it_o on_o his_o side_n and_o so_o confirm_v and_o comfort_v he_o the_o use_n be_v to_o exhort_v you_o to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o conscience_n and_o on_o its_o testimony_n and_o less_o weight_n on_o any_o other_o thing_n for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v your_o good_a meaning_n nor_o good_a hope_n as_o you_o use_v to_o speak_v but_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n that_o will_v be_v find_v fit_a to_o decide_v in_o any_o action_n 4_o observe_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n speak_v ing_z for_o a_o man_n and_o his_o perform_n of_o a_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n be_v separable_a that_o be_v a_o man_n may_v do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a in_o itself_o and_o yet_o not_o have_v a_o positive_a and_o approbative_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n concern_v it_o otherways_o paul_n need_v not_o to_o have_v attest_v his_o conscience_n if_o he_o have_v not_o know_v that_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n may_v have_v be_v separate_a from_o what_o he_o speak_v it_o be_v well_o enough_o know_v that_o he_o be_v say_v his_o heart_n be_v grieve_v for_o the_o rejection_n of_o the_o jew_n but_o the_o question_n be_v if_o he_o have_v say_v it_o honest_o and_o sincere_o and_o he_o assert_n that_o he_o have_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n for_o that_o as_o a_o distinct_a thing_n there_o be_v but_o too_o many_o proof_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v there_o not_o many_o who_o speak_v good_a word_n and_o do_v good_a deed_n on_o the_o matter_n who_o yet_o have_v not_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o speak_n and_o do_v of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o amaziah_n 2_o chro●_n 25._o 2._o he_o do_v that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o not_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n so_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o many_o other_o that_o they_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o they_o want_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o this_o will_v be_v further_a clear_a if_o we_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v a_o action_n true_o and_o christianly_o good_a such_o as_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o other_o day_n many_o care_n for_o no_o more_o but_o that_o the_o action_n be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o it_o be_v moreover_o requisite_a that_o it_o be_v good_a as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o performance_n that_o it_o be_v from_o a_o right_a motive_n to_o a_o right_a end_n do_v in_o faith_n by_o strength_n draw_v from_o christ_n and_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o acceptance_n on_o his_o account_n a_o corrupt_a end_n in_o prayer_n in_o come_v to_o the_o church_n to_o hear_v in_o read_v the_o word_n or_o in_o any_o other_o duty_n will_v spoil_v the_o action_n 2_o that_o there_o be_v different_a rule_n to_o try_v these_o by_o there_o be_v one_o rule_n to_o regulat_fw-la we_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o action_n and_o another_o to_o regulat_fw-la our_o manner_n of_o go_v about_o they_o and_o a_o good_a conscience_n look_v to_o both_o these_o rule_n and_o if_o anyof_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n to_o the_o suitable_a and_o acceptable_a performance_n of_o they_o be_v absent_a and_o want_v in_o so_o far_o conscience_n will_v withhold_v its_o positive_a approve_v testimony_n a_o good_a conscience_n its_o testimony_n be_v like_o the_o harmony_n of_o a_o well_o tune_a instrument_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o have_v all_o the_o string_n on_o
the_o instrument_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o have_v they_o all_o in_o tune_n when_o it_o be_v not_o right_o tune_v though_o it_o have_v on_o all_o the_o string_n it_o can_v give_v a_o sweet_a nor_o harmonious_a sound_n so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o conscience_n the_o use_n be_v for_o exhortation_n to_o watchful_a advertance_n in_o every_o thing_n to_o conscience_n it_o be_v testimony_n see_v there_o be_v many_o that_o do_v good_a on_o the_o matter_n who_o yet_o want_v its_o testimony_n it_o become_v we_o to_o be_v the_o more_o watchful_a to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o see_v that_o conscience_n its_o speak_v for_o a_o man_n and_o give_v he_o its_o approbative_a testimony_n and_o his_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a on_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o only_o separable_a but_o be_v often_o actual_o separate_v the_o one_o from_o the_o other_o not_o only_a in_o natural_a but_o even_o in_o regenerate_a man_n as_o frequent_a experience_n put_v beyond_o debate_n we_o have_v need_v i_o say_v to_o be_v the_o more_o watchful_a both_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n and_o manner_n of_o our_o do_v lest_o we_o be_v at_o a_o lose_v of_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n for_o we_o and_o none_o will_v think_v it_o to_o be_v as_o easy_a a_o business_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o perform_v of_o duty_n as_o it_o be_v to_o do_v so_o ●s_v to_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o how_o many_o come_v to_o the_o church_n but_o without_o due_a preparation_n and_o without_o have_v a_o heart_n ready_a to_o hear_v what_o god_n will_v say_v to_o they_o and_o meddle_v with_o with_o other_o duty_n without_o regard_v the_o due_a manner_n of_o perform_v they_o we_o ●ight_a instance_n it_o in_o all_o these_o six_o sort_n of_o action_n we_o speak_v of_o the_o other_o day_n in_o all_o which_o there_o be_v a_o propensnes_n i●_n we_o natural_o to_o degenerate_v and_o go_v beside_o the_o rule_n as_o namely_o 1._o in_o natural_a action_n of_o eat_v and_o drink_v or_o of_o love_a husband_n or_o wife_n or_o child_n man_n may_v be_v very_o carnal_a degenerate_a and_o become_v like_o very_a beast_n 2._o in_o civil_a action_n as_o buy_v and_o bargane_v wherein_o man_n ma●_n turn_v base_o covetous_a selfie_v and_o seek_v their_o own_o thing_n and_o not_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n no●_n the_o good_a and_o advantage_n of_o other_o 3_o in_o moral_a action_n as_o speak_v truth_n deal_v fair_o and_o honest_o wherein_o man_n may_v turn_v legal_a proud_a and_o vain_a and_o seek_v to_o establish_v a_o self-righteousnesse_n thereby_o to_o themselves_o 4._o in_o external_a religious_a action_n as_o hear_v the_o word_n pray_v etc._n etc._n wherein_o man_n may_v turn_v hypocritical_a and_o formal_a have_v a_o show_n without_o substance_n and_o a_o form_n of_o godliness_n without_o the_o power_n of_o it_o 5._o in_o inward_a duty_n as_o repentance_n contentment_n etc._n etc._n wherein_o man_n may_v turn_v worldly_a and_o carnal_a therefore_o a_o worldly_a repentance_n from_o fear_n of_o punishment_n or_o of_o shame_n in_o the_o world_n or_o worldly_a sorrow_n that_o cause_v death_n be_v speak_v of_o 2_o cor._n 7._o v._n 10._o so_o the●e_n be_v a_o worldly_a contentment_n 6._o in_o passive_a action_n or_o suffering_n some_o may_v suffer_v from_o inevitable_a necessity_n and_o have_v no_o thanks_o for_o it_o as_o it_o be_v 1_o pet._n 2._o 20._o we_o may_v from_o the_o unstraightnesse_n of_o the_o end_n to_o which_o from_o the_o unsoundnesse_n of_o the_o principle_n from_o which_o from_o the_o unsuitablenesse_n of_o the_o motive_n by_o which_o duty_n be_v do_v and_o several_a otherways_o prejudge_v ourselves_o of_o the_o approve_v testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n which_o we_o will_v careful_o advert_v to_o that_o we_o divide_v not_o betwixt_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o good_a turn_v action_n or_o duty_n but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v here_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o it_o be_v so_o difficult_a to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o carry_v it_o along_o with_o we_o in_o the_o very_a interim_n mean_v time_n and_o nick_n of_o perform_v the_o action_n above_o and_o beyond_o what_o it_o be_v either_o to_o deliberat_fw-la and_o advise_v with_o it_o before_o we_o do_v or_o to_o reflect_v after_o we_o have_v do_v i_o answer_v and_o give_v these_o two_o or_o three_o reason_n of_o it_o the_o first_o whereof_o be_v draw_v from_o the_o necessary_a concurrence_n of_o so_o many_o thing_n that_o must_v go_v together_o in_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o action_n which_o make_v it_o easy_a to_o resolve_v before_o do_v or_o to_o reflect_v after_o do_v then_o to_o perform_v the_o second_o be_v because_o there_o be_v such_o a_o ticklenesse_n in_o the_o frame_n ol_fw-mi our_o heart_n that_o they_o be_v unstable_a as_o water_n stable_n in_o nothing_o there_o be_v three_o distemper_n of_o heart_n that_o we_o be_v subject_a to_o which_o all_o hold_v forth_o this_o difficulty_n 1._o a_o decline_a humour_n to_o say_v so_o or_o distemper_n whereby_o we_o be_v give_v to_o backslide_v or_o turn_v aside_o like_o a_o deceitful_a bow_n that_o keep_v bensel_n while_o the_o arrow_n be_v a_o draw_v and_o when_o it_o be_v at_o or_o in_o the_o very_o let_v off_o starteth_z aside_o 2_o a_o levity_n and_o unsettledness_n even_o such_o that_o the_o weather_n cock_n be_v not_o soon_o and_o more_o easy_o whirl_v about_o by_o the_o least_o wind_n than_o we_o be_v by_o the_o least_o breathe_v of_o the_o air_n of_o tentation_n so_o that_o be_v we_o just_a now_o in_o a_o good_a and_o suitable_a frame_n for_o duty_n ere_o we_o be_v aware_a we_o fall_v off_o and_o a_o good_a conscience_n require_v a_o composedness_n and_o staidness_n of_o frame_n 3_o a_o rashness_n and_o hastiness_n or_o precipitance_n which_o make_v we_o that_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o thing_n to_o rush_v forward_o and_o to_o think_v all_o be_v do_v that_o be_v requisite_a so_o that_o we_o wait_v not_o to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o with_o we_o in_o our_o performance_n which_o rash_a precipitant_n and_o hasty_a humour_n or_o distemper_n make_v we_o often_o miscarry_v as_o david_n say_v of_o himself_o psal._n 116_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n that_o all_o man_n be_v liar_n and_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n that_o i_o be_o cut_v off_o from_o thy_o presence_n psal._n 31._o so_o believer_n often_o mar_v the_o composedness_n of_o their_o own_o frame_n by_o their_o h●steing_a and_o not_o take_v heed_n to_o what_o conscience_n say_v while_o they_o be_v in_o perform_v duty_n thus_o many_o post_n as_o it_o be_v through_o their_o prayer_n speak_v of_o many_o good_a thing_n in_o they_o from_o light_n but_o not_o endeavour_v to_o carry_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n along_o with_o they_o of_o their_o sincerity_n they_o spoil_v and_o mar_v that_o which_o be_v well_o intend_v and_o begin_v by_o they_o a_o four_o ground_n reason_n or_o cause_n of_o this_o be_v the_o great_a difficulty_n that_o there_o be_v to_o maintain_v and_o keep_v up_o a_o right_a frame_n of_o heart_n for_o any_o considerable_a time_n and_o a_o man_n will_v never_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n along_o particular_a duty_n if_o he_o maintain_v not_o a_o right_a frame_n of_o heart_n though_o a_o thing_n good_a in_o itself_o be_v never_o so_o fair_o floore_v to_o speak_v so_o and_o its_o ground_n never_o so_o well_o take_v up_o yet_o the_o least_o bias_n or_o rub_v easy_o put_v it_o by_o and_o make_v it_o go_v out_o all_o which_o shall_v in_o reason_n make_v we_o study_v the_o more_o watchfulness_n 5thly_a observe_v which_o will_v help_v to_o the_o use_v of_o the_o former_a and_o be_v of_o some_o affinity_n with_o the_o first_o particular_a observation_n that_o person_n will_v endeavour_v to_o walk_v in_o every_o particular_a duty_n or_o action_n so_o as_o they_o may_v not_o only_o advert_v to_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o but_o may_v also_o carry_v it_o along_o with_o they_o in_o it_o and_o have_v the_o positive_a approve_v testimony_n thereof_o all_o alongst_o the_o do_n of_o it_o which_o may_v be_v though_o there_o be_v not_o reflect_v on_o it_o every_o moment_n that_o be_v not_o only_a will_v they_o before_o they_o undertake_v any_o thing_n be_v clear_a that_o it_o be_v a_o warrantable_a duty_n as_o be_v mark_v before_o but_o further_a when_o they_o have_v do_v this_o they_o will_v so_o carry_v conscience_n along_o with_o they_o in_o it_o as_o they_o may_v have_v its_o testimony_n that_o they_o go_v about_o it_o conscientious_o therefore_o paul_n ask_v not_o only_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o the_o action_n as_o to_o its_o matter_n and_o as_o to_o his_o sincerity_n in_o undertake_v it_o but_o he_o bring_v it_o out_o speak_v for_o he_o while_o he_o be_v do_v it_o my_o conscience_n say_v he_o
with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o also_o with_o principality_n and_o power_n and_o spirtual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n yet_o have_v this_o for_o his_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n not_o to_o insist_v on_o the_o connection_n we_o have_v in_o the_o word_n these_o four_o thing_n 1._o paul_n continue_a chearfulnesse_n notwithstanding_o his_o former_o mention_a 〈◊〉_d this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v 2._o the_o ground_n and_o rise_v of_o this_o spiritual_a and_o solid_a joy_n that_o no_o affliction_n can_v remove_v from_o he_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n in_o his_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n he_o take_v a_o back-look_a of_o his_o way_n and_o find_v his_o conscience_n no●_n simple_o speak_v but_o testify_v good_a on_o his_o hehalf_n tell_v he_o that_o though_o he_o and_o his_o fellow_n be_v account_v deceiver_n and_o unknown_a yet_o they_o be_v true_a and_o well-known_a etc._n etc._n as_o it_o be_v 2_o cor._n 6._o v._n 8._o 3ly_n the_o extent_n or_o amplification_n of_o this_o ground_n 1._o more_o general_o we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v to_o be_v restrict_v to_o paul_n conversation_n after_o his_o conversion_n in_o his_o ministry_n and_o otherways_o for_o though_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v a_o blameless_a visible_a conversation_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o a_o renewedman_n have_v for_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o rejoice_v 2._o more_o particular_o he_o not_o only_o have_v a_o good_a conversation_n as_o to_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o his_o life_n but_o in_o his_o carriage_n towards_o the_o corinthian_n in_o particular_a with_o who_o he_o have_v be_v so_o much_o and_o so_o long_o conversant_a and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n what_o ever_o they_o may_v through_o the_o suggestion_n and_o instigation_n of_o false_a teacher_n have_v be_v dispose_v and_o ready_a to_o upbraid_v he_o with_o yet_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o sincerity_n and_o integrity_n as_o to_o what_o all_o the_o world_n can_v say_v of_o he_o which_o he_o allege_v and_o more_o abundant_o towards_o you_o partly_o to_o show_v his_o distinctnes_n in_o search_v his_o conscience_n not_o by_o the_o lump_n to_o speak_v so_o but_o as_o to_o the_o several_a part_n and_o piece_n of_o his_o life_n and_o partly_o to_o obviate_v a_o objection_n or_o calumny_n that_o may_v arise_v among_o they_o whe●e_v his_o conversation_n be_v most_o and_o most_o carp_v at_o 4_o we_o have_v the_o character_n whereby_o he_o confirm_v this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o the_o qualification_n of_o it_o whereby_o his_o confidence_n of_o have_v it_o be_v confirm_v which_o be_v four_o the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v negative_a not_o by_o fleshly_a wisdom_n not_o seek_v my_o own_o end_n nor_o my_o own_o good_a in_o a_o carnal_a way_n neither_o by_o carnal_a reason_n prosecute_a the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n the_o other_o three_o be_v positive_a the_o 2._o be_v simplicity_n that_o be_v a_o holy_a singleness_n in_o reference_n to_o the_o end_n he_o be_v a_o straight_a upright_o single_a man_n and_o in_o nothing_o double_a the_o 3d._n be_v that_o be_v be_v in_o godly_a sincerity_n and_o this_o not_o only_o as_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o gross_a hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulatiion_n but_o as_o it_o differ_v from_o mere_a moral_a honesty_n he_o walk_v not_o only_o in_o a_o civil_a moral_a honest_a way_n as_o mere_o moral_a and_o civil_a man_n use_v to_o do_v in_o their_o barganing_n and_o other_o deal_n but_o in_o godly_a sincerity_n do_v every_o thing_n as_o in_o god_n sight_n as_o he_o say_v of_o himself_o chap._n 2._o v._n last_o we_o be_v not_o as_o many_o who_o corrupt_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o as_o of_o sincerity_n as_o of_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n speak_v we_o in_o christ_n the_o 4._o character_n whereby_o he_o prove_v that_o he_o have_v this_o testimony_n and_o be_v assure_v of_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o what_o he_o do_v by_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o by_o the_o strength_n of_o nature_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o show_v as_o we_o say_v before_o that_o this_o testimony_n reach_v no_o further_a than_o from_o the_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n the_o first_o of_o these_o positive_a character_n or_o evidence_n show_v the_o singleness_n of_o his_o end_n the_o second_o show_v his_o singleness_n in_o the_o way_n of_o prosecute_a that_o end_n the_o three_o show_v the_o principle_n whereby_o or_o where_o from_o he_o act_v it_o be_v not_o carnal_a reason_n that_o give_v he_o counsel_n nor_o nature_n that_o strengthen_v he_o but_o grace_n in_o these_o word_n then_o we_o have_v first_o a_o short_a and_o sweet_a compend_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o comfortable_a life_n and_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2._o we_o have_v the_o way_n how_o to_o attain_v and_o how_o to_o entertain_v and_o maintain_v the_o same_o the_o apostle_n in_o a_o word_n be_v now_o put_v to_o it_o and_o have_v both_o foe_n and_o friend_n on_o his_o top_n he_o take_v a_o back_n look_v of_o his_o life_n and_o reflect_v on_o what_o be_v his_o carriage_n towards_o all_o man_n and_o towards_o the_o corinthian_o more_o particular_o and_o find_v his_o conscience_n testify_v for_o he_o as_o to_o both_o and_o on_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n well_o prove_v and_o make_v out_o he_o quiet_o settle_v and_o joyful_o cheer_v himself_o have_v already_o speak_v of_o what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n before_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o do_v any_o thing_n we_o have_v now_o choose_v these_o word_n to_o show_v what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o what_o be_v past_a not_o to_o stand_v on_o every_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v observe_v from_o they_o we_o shall_v astrick_n ourselves_o to_o this_o scope_n viz._n to_o point_n out_o the_o right_a use_n make_v of_o conscience_n it_o be_v sense_n and_o testimony_n of_o our_o way_n and_o action_n after_o they_o be_v pass_v and_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o believer_n in_o try_v his_o by-gone_a course_n of_o life_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o as_o to_o conscience_n it_o be_v testimony_n of_o it_o or_o as_o to_o what_o conscience_n can_v say_v concern_v it_o 1._o then_o observe_v but_o in_o pass_v that_o conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n to_o a_o man_n concern_v his_o action_n and_o conversation_n of_o a_o long_a time_n past_a so_o that_o though_o he_o have_v be_v in_o such_o a_o country_n among_o such_o a_o people_n about_o such_o and_o such_o a_o action_n many_o year_n ago_o conscience_n reflect_v upon_o have_v a_o faculty_n to_o speak_v so_o of_o signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o as_o of_o every_o other_o action_n of_o his_o life_n much_o of_o paul_n time_n be_v now_o past_a and_o a_o part_n of_o it_o in_o the_o ministry_n at_o corinth_n yet_o look_v so_o far_o back_o his_o conscience_n give_v he_o this_o testimony_n which_o will_v be_v further_o clear_v if_o we_o consider_v first_o the_o experience_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o attest_v their_o conscience_n in_o past_a and_o in_o long_a since_o past_a action_n na●_n we_o suppose_v there_o be_v few_o or_o rather_o none_o at_o all_o but_o their_o conscience_n will_v sometime_o challenge_v they_o for_o a●_n evil_a action_n that_o be_v by_o their_o hand_n and_o that_o for_o a_o considerable_a time_n josephs_n brethren_n be_v a_o famous_a instance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o now_o if_o it_o can_v challenge_v or_o accuse_v it_o can_v also_o excuse_v and_o approve_v a_o man_n and_o testify_v for_o he_o when_o he_o have_v do_v well_o for_o excuse_v be_v as_o extensive_a in_o a_o good_a case_n as_o accuse_v be_v in_o a_o evil_a 2._o it_o be_v clear_a also_o from_o the_o office_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o as_o we_o show_v be_v not_o only_o to_o dictat_fw-la and_o to_o be_v a_o observe_a companion_n but_o to_o be_v a_o judge_n which_o suppose_v for_o ordinary_a the_o thing_n to_o be_v pass_v therefore_o 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o both_o the_o condemn_a and_o absolve_v of_o the_o heart_n be_v speak_v of_o which_o infer_v that_o the_o conscience_n call_v there_o the_o heart_n have_v a_o way_n of_o recognoscing_a of_o and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o a_o man_n way_n and_o action_n not_o only_o while_o they_o be_v a_o do_v but_o when_o past_a 2_o observe_v which_o be_v that_o we_o main_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o that_o it_o be_v a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o of_o the_o practice_n of_o ●_o christian_n to_o be_v reflect_v on_o his_o by-gone_a way_n and_o try_v what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o not_o only_o as_o i_o have_v often_o aid_v to_o deliberat_fw-la and_o advise_v with_o conscience_n before_o and_o to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o in_o
the_o time_n of_o the_o action_n but_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v past_a it_o may_v be_v many_o year_n since_o and_o as_o to_o the_o course_n of_o his_o life_n to_o be_v look_v in_o and_o reflect_v on_o what_o conscience_n say_v for_o or_o against_o he_o this_o be_v paul_n practice_n here_o he_o can_v have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n till_o he_o have_v ask_v it_o and_o try_v it_o and_o lay_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o general_n and_o his_o carriage_n among_o the_o corinthian_n in_o particular_a before_o it_o and_o if_o the_o former_a doctrine_n be_v a_o truth_n this_o will_v follow_v that_o a_o tender_a christian_a will_v be_v reflect_v on_o his_o by-gone_a way_n and_o try_v what_o his_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o and_o of_o his_o action_n except_o we_o will_v say_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v tender_a and_o not_o take_v heed_n to_o his_o conscience_n to_o which_o for_o this_o end_n god_n have_v give_v it_o this_o reflect_a power_n or_o faculty_n to_o say_v so_o it_o will_v also_o be_v more_o clear_a if_o we_o look_v to_o the_o practice_n and_o experience_n of_o the_o saint_n who_o the_o more_o tender_a they_o have_v be_v the_o more_o they_o have_v be_v in_o reflect_v this_o way_n if_o we_o look_v to_o job_n we_o will_v find_v that_o most_o of_o all_o the_o discourse_n he_o have_v be_v so_o many_o review_v of_o his_o conscience_n particular_o chap._n 23._o 11._o he_o say_v my_o foot_n have_v hold_v his_o step_n his_o way_n have_v i_o keep_v and_o not_o decline_v neither_o have_v i_o go_v back_o from_o the_o commandment_n of_o his_o lip_n i_o have_v esteem_v the_o word_n of_o his_o mouth_n more_o than_o my_o necessary_a food_n how_o be_v it_o that_o he_o speak_v so_o confident_o but_o from_o reflect_v on_o and_o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n therefore_o chap_n 27._o 3_o 4_o 5._o he_o say_v all_o the_o while_o my_o breath_n be_v in_o i_o and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v in_o my_o nostril_n my_o lip_n shall_v not_o speak_v wickedness_n nor_o my_o tongue_n utter_a deceit_n i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n my_o righteousness_n will_v i_o hold_v fast_o my_o heart_n shall_v not_o reproach_v i_o so_o long_o as_o i_o live_v import_v that_o he_o can_v find_v his_o conscience_n challenge_v he_o as_o to_o that_o wherewith_o his_o friend_n do_v charge_v he_o so_o likeways_o chap._n 31._o 1._o he_o say_v i_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o my_o eye_n why_o then_o shall_v i_o look_v upon_o a_o maid_n and_o he_o go_v on_o through_o the_o chapter_n particular_o make_v it_o to_o appear_v that_o he_o have_v be_v search_v and_o try_v and_o take_v notice_n of_o his_o way_n and_o of_o all_o the_o piece_n and_o part_n of_o it_o and_o that_o therein_o his_o conscience_n have_v give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n thus_o david_n psal._n 7._o 3._o say_v lord_n my_o god_n if_o i_o have_v do_v this_o if_o there_o be_v iniquity_n in_o my_o hand_n if_o i_o have_v reward_v evil_a to_o he_o etc._n etc._n psal._n 26._o 2._o examine_v i_o o_o lord_n and_o prove_v i_o try_v my_o reins_o and_o my_o heart_n and_o psal._n 139._o 23._o search_v i_o o_o lord_n say_v he_o and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o all_o which_o suppose_v his_o own_o trial_n accomplish_v in_o and_o of_o his_o conscience_n to_o have_v go_v before_o yea_o not_o only_o the_o believer_n but_o the_o believer_n in_o the_o tender_a frame_n be_v most_o in_o this_o work_n therefore_o in_o the_o most_o serious_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n under_o the_o great_a manifestation_n of_o god_n presence_n and_o the_o most_o abundant_a pouring_n out_o of_o his_o spirit_n and_o when_o near_o to_o death_n they_o be_v most_o ready_a to_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n which_o show_v that_o not_o only_o we_o shall_v do_v it_o but_o that_o the_o more_o tender_a person_n be_v they_o will_v be_v the_o more_o in_o this_o duty_n and_o there_o be_v also_o good_a reason_n for_o it_o for_o 1._o a_o man_n can_v know_v his_o condition_n except_o he_o reflect_v and_o search_v what_o his_o conscience_n have_v to_o say_v of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v not_o the_o bare_a remember_v of_o the_o action_n but_o the_o consider_v of_o it_o by_o bring_v it_o before_o and_o try_v it_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n in_o the_o ●ourt_n of_o conscience_n so_o as_o to_o have_v its_o approbative_a testimony_n that_o make_v it_o pass_v for_o eurrent_n 2_o because_o as_o a_o man_n know_v not_o how_o to_o judge_v of_o what_o be_v past_a so_o neither_o how_o to_o carry_v for_o time_n to_o come_v what_o he_o have_v to_o repent_v of_o or_o what_o he_o have_v to_o amend_v in_o his_o way_n except_o he_o take_v a_o review_n and_o back-look_a of_o it_o as_o to_o the_o time_n past_a it_o be_v the_o find_n of_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n that_o make_v he_o say_v this_o i_o have_v need_v to_o repent_v of_o and_o this_o i_o have_v need_v to_o watch_v against_o for_o time_n to_o come_v therefore_o these_o two_o be_v put_v together_o psal._n 119._o 59_o 69._o i_o think_v on_o my_o way_n and_o turn_v my_o foot_n unto_o thy_o testimony_n i_o make_v haste_n etc._n etc._n the_o examination_n of_o his_o by-gone_a way_n help_v he_o to_o go_v on_o right_n for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v 3_o because_o hardly_o will_v a_o tender_a man_n come_v to_o prayer_n without_o this_o he_o know_v not_o what_o to_o confess_v nor_o what_o to_o seek_v except_o he_o reflect_v and_o consider_v what_o he_o have_v to_o confess_v unto_o o●_n to_o seek_v from_o god_n and_o sure_o a_o man_n can_v be_v tender_a if_o he_o pray_v not_o therefore_o these_o two_o be_v join_v together_o zech._n 12._o 10._o i_o will_v pour_v say_v the_o lord_n upon_o the_o house_n of_o david_n and_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n and_o they_o shall_v look_v upon_o he_o who_o they_o have_v pierce_v and_o mourn_v hence_o it_o be_v find_v in_o experience_n that_o the_o more_o insight_n a_o man_n have_v in_o his_o by-gone_a way_n the_o more_o liberty_n he_o have_v in_o prayer_n and_o that_o deadness_n and_o dryness_n in_o prayer_n flow_v much_o from_o the_o want_n of_o self-reflection_n 4_o because_o this_o be_v the_o way_n for_o a_o man_n to_o win_v at_o peace_n and_o no_o man_n can_v be_v tender_a and_o have_v solid_a peace_n that_o care_v not_o what_o his_o conscience_n speak_v to_o he_o whether_o good_a or_o evil_n peace_n or_o war_n and_o he_o can_v never_o know_v what_o it_o say_v except_o he_o reflect_v and_o try_v and_o it_o be_v from_o this_o that_o even_o paul_n himself_o can_v have_v peace_n nor_o rejoice_v till_o he_o try_v his_o peace_n and_o joy_n to_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n and_o conscience_n testimony_n to_o be_v the_o consequent_a of_o self-examination_n the_o use_v of_o the_o doctrine_n be_v four_o the_o first_o whereof_o be_v for_o instruction_n the_o second_o for_o trial_n the_o 3._o for_o exhortation_n the_o 4._o for_o reproof_n and_o expostulation_n the_o 1._o use_v i_o say_v ●s_v for_o instruction_n will_v you_o know_v and_o be_v instruct_v in_o a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n and_o practice_n here_o it_o be_v to_o be_v often_o reflect_v on_o your_o by-gone_a way_n and_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o to_o belook_v from_o your_o youth_n up_o what_o you_o have_v do_v what_o have_v be_v your_o more_o habitual_a thought_n word_n and_o action_n and_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v of_o they_o of_o such_o a_o word_n or_o discourse_n of_o such_o a_o voyage_n or_o journey_n and_o so_o of_o other_o action_n and_o to_o be_v put_v it_o to_o pass_v its_o sentence_n on_o they_o and_o to_o be_v try_v whether_o we_o have_v peace_n in_o they_o and_o conscience_n it_o be_v good_a testimony_n concern_v they_o or_o not_o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o may_v allege_v that_o place_n rev._n 4._o v._n 6_o 8._o which_o we_o suppose_v to_o be_v main_o and_o most_o proper_o mean_v of_o tender_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n yet_o it_o may_v well_o by_o proportion_n be_v apply_v to_o tender_v private_a christian_n where_o these_o four_o beast_n be_v say_v to_o have_v eye_n before_o and_o behind_o and_o to_o be_v full_a of_o eye_n within_o eye_n before_o intimate_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v tender_a in_o find_v out_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v eye_n within_o intimate_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v watchful_a over_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o way_n over_o their_o own_o present_a frame_n &_o walk_v look_v not_o only_o before_o behind_o and_o about_o they_o but_o within_o themselves_o and_o
carry_v with_o due_a reverence_n to_o he_o when_o man_n think_v little_a of_o god_n himself_o they_o think_v little_a of_o conscience_n his_o depute_v and_o on_o the_o contrary_a a_o tender_a conscience_n make_v god_n very_o awful_a dreadful_a and_o majestic_a therefore_o job_n give_v this_o for_o a_o reason_n why_o he_o dare_v not_o contend_v with_o his_o servant_n because_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n make_v he_o afraid_a his_o carry_v along_o with_o he_o conscience_n it_o be_v sense_n of_o his_o way_n do_v mighty_o elevat_fw-la his_o thought_n of_o god_n 8._o he_o have_v many_o earand_n to_o god_n in_o christ_n he_o see_v many_o thing_n amiss_o that_o need_n to_o be_v amend_v he_o daily_o discover_v much_o guilt_n which_o necessi●ats_v he_o to_o run_v to_o god_n for_o absolution_n grace_n both_o for_o pardon_v of_o his_o iniquity_n and_o for_o heal_v of_o his_o disease_n be_v always_o lovely_a sweet_a and_o fresh_a to_o he_o and_o to_o hear_v of_o it_o be_v like_o a_o box_n of_o precious_a fragran●ly_a smell_a ointment_n break_v like_o oil_n pour_v into_o a_o smart_a wound_n and_o as_o good_a news_n from_o a_o far_a country_n by_o all_o which_o in_o a_o word_n you_o may_v see_v 1._o that_o it_o be_v a_o desirable_a thing_n to_o live_v and_o walk_v tender_o 2_o that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o necessary_a thing_n in_o order_n to_o come_v by_o many_o choice_a advantage_n 3_o that_o it_o be_v bu●_n a_o very_a rare_a thing_n and_o to_o be_v find_v with_o but_o few_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v many_o rare_a and_o excellent_a effect_n 4_o that_o it_o be_v a_o very_a hard_a and_o difficult_a thing_n to_o be_v a_o tender_a christian_a and_o in_o this_o frame_n of_o true_a tenderness_n of_o conscience_n consult_v it_o carrying_z it_o along_o and_o reflect_v on_o it_o in_o all_o action_n that_o be_v the_o principle_n that_o keep_v tender_a in_o they_o all_o sermon_n ii_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o for_o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o in_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o to_o you_o ward_v there_o be_v many_o very_a sad_a and_o prejudicial_a practical_a error_n and_o mistake_v concern_v a_o tender_a christian_n walk_v whence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o most_o person_n lay_v the_o great_a stress_n thereof_o on_o thing_n that_o will_v not_o bear_v it_o while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o neglect_v and_o overlook_v those_o principal_a and_o weighty_a duty_n wherein_o it_o main_o consist_v that_o make_v less_o noise_n and_o show_v before_o man_n that_o be_v less_o subject_a to_o be_v counterfeit_v and_o tend_v more_o to_o the_o life_n and_o power_n of_o godliness_n than_o these_o other_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o more_o high_a esteem_n with_o man_n among_o which_o this_o duty_n of_o often_o reflect_v on_o a_o man_n conscience_n and_o try_v of_o his_o way_n at_o its_o ba●_n that_o he_o may_v know_v its_o sense_n and_o receive_v its_o testimony_n thereof_o be_v one_o and_o not_o the_o least_o and_o be_v as_o we_o conceive_v one_o of_o the_o piece_n of_o a_o christian_a tender_a walk_n that_o come_v as_o near_o to_o the_o very_a soul_n and_o life_n of_o religion_n and_o have_v as_o much_o influence_n on_o tenderness_n therein_o as_o either_o much_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n prayer_n conference_n and_o the_o like_a have_v to_o which_o when_o this_o be_v join_v theyare_n very_o useful_a but_o when_o it_o be_v utter_o want_v they_o be_v useless_a it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o important_a duty_n in_o itself_o but_o also_o very_o helpful_a to_o other_o duty_n contribute_v much_o to_o the_o reap_v of_o those_o advantage_n that_o be_v to_o be_v have_v by_o they_o we_o observe_v the_o other_o day_n from_o these_o word_n that_o a_o tender_a christian_a will_v be_v often_o reflect_v on_o his_o way_n and_o take_v notice_n what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o and_o speak_v somewhat_o to_o two_o use_n of_o the_o point_n as_o it_o clear_v a_o notable_a duty_n and_o give_v a_o evidence_n and_o proof_n of_o a_o tender_a man_n we_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o speak_v to_o other_o two_o the_o first_o and_o principal_a whereof_o be_v this_o if_o it_o be_v a_o main_a plece_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n to_o be_v often_o examiningour_n self_n and_o try_v what_o sense_n conscience_n have_v of_o our_o way_n and_o action_n than_o it_o serve_v for_o exhortation_n to_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o will_v live_v tender_o to_o be_v put_v this_o in_o practice_n as_o a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o tender_a walk_n as_o a_o main_a duty_n call_v for_o from_o they_o and_o as_o a_o main_a evidence_n of_o their_o tenderness_n that_o be_v to_o be_v often_o serious_o reflect_v on_o their_o by-gone_a way_n to_o be_v often_o bring_v their_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o conscience_n for_o this_o end_n that_o they_o may_v know_v what_o it_o say_v of_o they_o not_o only_o to_o be_v deliberate_v and_o advise_v with_o conscience_n before_o they_o undertake_v any_o action_n and_o to_o be_v watchful_a in_o go_v about_o it_o but_o to_o be_v reflect_v when_o it_o be_v do_v if_o it_o be_v right_o do_v and_o so_o as_o conscience_n may_v testify_v for_o they_o concern_v the_o same_o this_o be_v paul_n practice_n here_o this_o be_v say_v he_o our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n which_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v be_v lay_v his_o way_n before_o conscience_n try_v what_o it_o say_v of_o it_o and_o that_o he_o have_v receive_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n concern_v it_o that_o which_o we_o will_v in_o a_o word_n here_o commend_v to_o you_o be_v that_o man_n and_o woman_n will_v ●ake_v a_o back-look_a of_o and_o reflect_v upon_o all_o their_o action_n word_n and_o thought_n and_o of_o and_o upon_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o same_o and_o that_o they_o will_v so_o reflect_v upon_o they_o as_o they_o may_v endeavour_v to_o know_v wherein_o they_o have_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n for_o they_o or_o wherein_o it_o stand_v up_o to_o speak_v against_o they_o that_o be_v that_o they_o will_v not_o only_o study_v to_o gather_v into_o their_o memory_n their_o action_n which_o be_v presuppose_v and_o to_o lay_v they_o before_o the_o word_n but_o further_o when_o their_o action_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n be_v lay_v together_o to_o hear_v conscience_n its_o sentence_n anent_o their_o perform_n of_o the_o same_o we_o shall_v not_o insist_v in_o particular_a explication_n of_o this_o duty_n you_o have_v hear_v somewhat_o speak_v of_o it_o these_o day_n past_a if_o we_o can_v but_o gain_v this_o much_o of_o you_o as_o to_o have_v you_o thorough_o convince_v that_o somewhat_o lie_v on_o you_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o examination_n of_o your_o heart_n and_o way_n as_o to_o thing_n that_o be_v past_a and_o to_o get_v you_o in_o good_a earnest_n engage_v to_o make_v more_o conscience_n of_o this_o duty_n for_o time_n to_o come_v it_o be_v the_o great_a thing_n we_o aim_v at_o and_o if_o your_o conscience_n be_v once_o due_o convince_v and_o clear_v of_o the_o necessity_n and_o usefulness_n of_o the_o duty_n and_o you_o bring_v to_o be_v in_o love_n with_o it_o you_o will_v through_o grace_n be_v easy_o lead_v on_o to_o the_o particular_n requisite_a to_o the_o right_a way_n of_o perform_v it_o seriousness_n in_o and_o affection_n to_o the_o thing_n will_v supply_v the_o room_n of_o many_o direction_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v now_o earnest_o press_v it_o upon_o you_o to_o take_v sometime_o for_o this_o duty_n of_o self-searching_a and_o examination_n as_o well_o as_o for_o prayer_n hear_v conference_n and_o other_o such_o duty_n and_o to_o be_v as_o holy_o solicitous_a and_o desirous_a to_o know_v when_o you_o have_v do_v any_o action_n or_o duty_n whether_o it_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n as_o you_o think_v you_o shall_v be_v careful_a to_o advise_v before_o you_o do_v it_o that_o it_o be_v good_a upon_o the_o matter_n sure_o the_o awe_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n and_o of_o your_o conscience_n his_o depute_v and_o a_o just_a regard_n to_o your_o own_o peace_n shall_v incline_v sway_n and_o determine_v you_o to_o the_o one_o as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o other_o what_o we_o will_v further_o say_v in_o this_o matter_n shall_v be_v to_o show_v you_o what_o you_o shall_v aim_v at_o in_o this_o self_n examination_n as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o go_v about_o it_o for_o we_o much_o mar_v and_o wound_v our_o own_o peace_n by_o formality_n and_o overliness_n in_o this_o as_o in_o other_o duty_n which_o you_o may_v take_v up_o in_o these_o four_o 1._o
we_o will_v labour_v in_o our_o self-examination_n to_o be_v up_o at_o that_o distinctnesse_n that_o through_o grace_n may_v be_v win_v at_o that_o we_o may_v be_v so_o very_o clear_a as_o to_o be_v in_o case_n to_o say_v i_o wot_v well_o i_o be_v right_a at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o wrong_v at_o such_o another_o time_n in_o this_o i_o be_v right_a and_o in_o that_o i_o be_v wrong_a yea_o so_o clear_a and_o distinct_a will_v we_o be_v as_o we_o may_v if_o call_v to_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v our_o oath_n on_o it_o as_o paul_n do_v in_o the_o place_n we_o speak_v on_o before_o viz._n ro●_n 9_o 1._o i_o say_v the_o truth_n in_o christ_n say_v he_o and_o lie_v not_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n there_o will_v not_o be_v guess_v at_o thing_n but_o we_o will_v be_v thorough_o distinct_a and_o clear_a therefore_o job_n speak_v of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o integrity_n chap._n 31._o propose_v they_o by_o way_n of_o curse_n be_v so_o very_o confident_a that_o he_o dare_v confirm_v what_o he_o assert_v with_o a_o curse_n on_o himself_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v find_v to_o be_v otherwise_o then_o he_o say_v 2_o we_o will_v examine_v and_o look_v on_o our_o way_n till_o we_o be_v bring_v under_o some_o suitable_a impression_n of_o the_o awe_n and_o dread_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o absolute_a dominion_n and_o sovereignty_n over_o we_o thus_o holy_a job_n say_v of_o himself_o when_o thus_o exercise_v chap_n 31._o v._n 23._o destruction_n from_o the_o almighty_a be_v a_o terror_n to_o i_o and_o by_o reason_n of_o his_o highness_n i_o can_v not_o endure_v we_o never_o follow_v our_o self-examination_n far_o enough_o till_o it_o leave_v some_o impression_n of_o this_o kind_n on_o our_o spirit_n 3_o it_o will_v be_v follow_v till_o we_o be_v affect_v with_o what_o discovery_n we_o get_v in_o the_o search_n of_o our_o own_o way_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o bare_o to_o take_v a_o look_n or_o view_v of_o it_o but_o we_o will_v i_o say_v look_v on_o it_o so_o as_o we_o may_v be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o it_o that_o either_o it_o may_v give_v we_o solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n from_o clearness_n that_o we_o be_v right_a or_o else_o a_o sensible_a touch_n with_o the_o sharpness_n of_o a_o challenge_n for_o that_o whereof_o we_o be_v clear_o convince_v be_v wrong_n and_o man_n be_v never_o right_o exercise_v in_o the_o work_n of_o self-examination_n and_o of_o reflection_n on_o their_o conscience_n till_o something_o of_o this_o be_v there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o bare_a light_n and_o a_o well_o inform_v and_o tender_a conscience_n conscience_n sense_n of_o a_o thing_n be_v of_o more_o weight_n and_o be_v more_o divine_a and_o have_v some_o more_o of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n in_o it_o then_o bare_a light_n or_o conviction_n of_o the_o judgement_n it_o will_v neither_o smile_v nor_o ●rown_n but_o it_o will_v suitable_o affect_v the_o man_n with_o some_o inward_a comfort_n or_o sorrow_n for_o it_o represent_v god_n either_o as_o smile_v or_o ●rowning_v 4_o we_o will_v follow_v this_o work_n of_o self-examination_n and_o self-reflection_n till_o we_o be_v clear_a and_o full_o persuade_v as_o to_o the_o duty_n we_o be_v call_v to_o after_o such_o examination_n as_o when_o a_o man_n find_v thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n conscience_n will_v say_v there_o be_v here_o a_o necessity_n of_o repentance_n and_o humiliation_n and_o of_o fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o take_v away_o the_o guilt_n thereof_o and_o of_o set_v about_o the_o right_v and_o amend_v of_o thing_n and_o till_o a_o man_n come_v to_o be_v clear_a in_o that_o which_o he_o be_v call_v to_o by_o self-examination_n he_o follow_v it_o not_o ●th_v a_o right_n and_o as_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o worldly_a and_o of_o godly_a sorrow_n 2_o cor._n 7._o 10_o 11._o give_v these_o evidence_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n a_o fruit_n of_o self-examination_n that_o it_o not_o only_o be_v wait_v in_o the_o corinthian_n with_o a_o fight_n of_o the_o fault_n but_o it_o touch_v they_o in_o the_o quick_a for_o it_o and_o affect_v they_o with_o holy_a indignation_n at_o it_o and_o with_o true_a zeal_n to_o have_v it_o remove_v and_o that_o with_o all_o it_o suffer_v they_o not_o to_o rest_v till_o they_o endeavour_v by_o all_o mean_v a_o clear_n of_o themselves_o behold_v say_v he_o v_o 11._o the_o self_n same_o thing_n you_o sorrow_v after_o a_o godly_a sort_n what_o carefulness_n it_o wrought_v in_o you_o ●ea_o what_o clear_v of_o yourselves_o yea_o what_o indignation_n etc._n etc._n a_o man_n that_o offer_v to_o ●et_v about_o self-examination_n and_o yet_o lie_v still_o in_o the_o fault_n that_o be_v discover_v thereby_o and_o be_v no_o more_o affect_v with_o it_o then_o if_o he_o be_v not_o at_o all_o guilty_a of_o it_o nor_o any_o more_o now_o after_o the_o discovery_n make_v in_o the_o search_n incline_v to_o flee_v to_o christ_n then_o when_o he_o begin_v his_o self-examination_n be_v sure_a not_o right_a we_o will_v therefore_o serious_o recommend_v to_o you_o these_o four_o to_o be_v well_o head_v and_o carry_v along_o with_o you_o in_o your_o prosecute_n this_o work_n of_o self-examina●on_a to_o press_v this_o a_o little_a we_o will_v consider_v these_o three_o 1._o the_o clearness_n of_o the_o duty_n 2._o the_o profitableness_n and_o excellency_n of_o it_o 3._o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o by_o all_o which_o we_o may_v be_v convince_v of_o a_o necessity_n lie_v upon_o we_o to_o press_v it_o and_o upon_o you_o to_o practice_v it_o the_o lord_n himself_o bear_v in_o upon_o we_o all_o with_o a_o strong_a hand_n the_o conviction_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v as_o clear_v a_o duty_n as_o it_o be_v for_o you_o to_o come_v to_o the_o church_n to_o hear_v as_o it_o be_v to_o read_v or_o to_o pray_v or_o to_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n day_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o 1._o it_o be_v so_o often_o command_v as_o l●m._n 3._o 40._o hagg●_n ●_z 5._o gal._n ●_o 4._o and_o psal._n 2._o 4._o commun●_n with_o your_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n or_o speak_v with_o your_o hear●_n or_o with_o your_o conscience_n as_o often_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o heart_n be_v put_v for_o the_o conscience_n for_o it_o be_v the_o conscience_n property_n that_o give_v the_o answer_n and_o not_o the_o heart_n so_o 2_o cor_n 13._o 5._o examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o say_v prove_v your_o own_o self_n etc._n etc._n the_o command_n be_v double_v nay_o someway_o tripled_a 2._o it_o be_v clear_a also_o from_o the_o ordinary_a practice_n of_o the_o saint_n as_o have_v be_v former_o instance_a so_o that_o hardly_o will_v you_o find_v a_o tender_a man_n but_o he_o be_v thus_o exercise_v and_o the_o more_o tender_a he_o be_v the_o more_o be_v he_o so_o tender_v david_n be_v much_o exercise_v this_o way_n as_o he_o give_v a_o account_n psal._n 119._o 59_o i_o think_v say_v he_o on_o my_o way_n and_o turn_v my_o foot_n unto_o thy_o testimony_n for_o the_o second_o viz._n the_o profitableness_n and_o excellency_n of_o it_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o command_v duty_n but_o a_o choice_n mean_v for_o bring_v about_o many_o excellent_a end_n i_o shall_v instance_n its_o excellency_n among_o other_o in_o these_o three_o respect_n 1._o it_o be_v excellent_a in_o this_o respect_n as_o it_o be_v a_o most_o clear_a fresh_a and_o refreshful_a evidence_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o of_o a_o man_n that_o make_v conscience_n of_o his_o way_n he_o that_o do_v truth_n say_v christ_n john_n 3._o 21._o come_v to_o the_o light_n that_o his_o deed_n may_v be_v make_v manifest_a that_o they_o be_v wrought_v in_o god_n he_o be_v not_o only_o content_a to_o abide_v a_o trial_n but_o he_o put_v himself_o to_o it_o he_o bring_v his_o deed_n to_o the_o light_n to_o see_v if_o they_o be_v wrought_v in_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_a he_o that_o do_v evil_a hate_v the_o light_n and_o come_v not_o unto_o it_o lest_o his_o deed_n shall_v he_o reprove_v must_v not_o this_o then_o be_v a_o excellent_a duty_n which_o be_v so_o clear_a a_o character_n and_o property_n of_o one_o that_o walk_v tender_o in_o all_o duty_n nay_o let_v all_o duty_n be_v put_v together_o without_o this_o none_o of_o they_o nor_o all_o of_o they_o in_o a_o conjunction_n can_v evidence_n a_o man_n tenderness_n for_o it_o be_v this_o that_o give_v he_o as_o it_o be_v a_o grip_n of_o his_o duty_n and_o put_v they_o to_o the_o touchstone_n and_o show_v what_o reality_n be_v in_o they_o what_o be_v to_o be_v look_v 〈◊〉_d acceptable_a to_o god_n through_o christ_n what_o not_o without_o this_o
it_o testify_v for_o conscience_n be_v but_o a_o subordinate_a judge_n we_o must_v go_v to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n and_o see_v if_o it_o speak_v according_a to_o that_o otherways_o it_o will_v not_o be_v a_o honest_a aim_n or_o a_o good_a end_n propose_v to_o ourselves_o in_o the_o do_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n or_o because_o we_o be_v in_o a_o pardon_a state_n that_o will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v the_o action_n true_o good_a and_o acceptable_a and_o to_o give_v we_o ground_n of_o peace_n 3_o you_o will_v advert_v and_o take_v good_a heed_n if_o conscience_n challenge_v equal_o for_o one_o sin_n as_o well_o as_o for_o another_o and_o for_o the_o neglect_n of_o one_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o for_o the_o neglect_n of_o another_o and_o if_o as_o the_o sin_n be_v comparative_o great_a or_o lesser_a so_o its_o challenge_n be_v lesser_a or_o great_a for_o if_o conscience_n its_o challenge_n lead_v you_o to_o the_o word_n the_o more_o weight_n that_o the_o word_n lay_v on_o sin_n the_o more_o weight_n will_v conscience_n lay_v upon_o it_o when_o it_o be_v right_a sometime_o person_n will_v be_v challenge_v for_o some_o thing_n much_o extrinsic_a to_o religion_n or_o for_o omit_v this_o or_o that_o wherein_o very_o little_a if_o any_o thing_n of_o religion_n consist_v or_o at_o least_o lie_v very_o remo●e_a who_o yet_o will_v not_o be_v much_o trouble_v for_o take_v of_o god_n name_n in_o vain_a or_o for_o neglect_n of_o prayer_n and_o the_o like_a i_o remember_v the_o say_n of_o a_o godly_a man_n to_o a_o person_n under_o exercise_n for_o a_o little_a sin_n little_a in_o comparison_n of_o other_o for_o no_o sin_n be_v little_a in_o its_o own_o nature_n that_o he_o think_v the_o hand_n or_o work_v of_o the_o devil_n 〈◊〉_d be_v in_o it_o to_o lay_v a_o ground_n for_o spiritual_a pride_n because_o the_o person_n be_v so_o much_o trouble_v with_o so_o ●ittle_a a_o thing_n or_o to_o divert_v from_o take_v a_o view_n of_o grosser_n sin_n for_o their_o deep_a humiliation_n when_o conscience_n be_v right_a it_o challenge_v equal_o and_o more_o or_o less_o as_o the_o sin_n be_v more_o or_o less_o aggravate_v it_o be_v a_o evil_n in_o this_o time_n that_o extrinsic_a and_o remo●e_v thing_n trouble_v some_o so_o much_o while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n know_v sin_n and_o duty_n be_v but_o little_o mind_v and_o lay_v to_o heart_n as_o i●_n forsooth_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o be_v more_o delicate_a and_o tender_a than_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o saint_n of_o old_a nay_o there_o be_v not_o a_o few_o who_o will_v disdain_v to_o be_v challenge_v for_o neglect_n of_o uncontroverted_a duty_n who_o yet_o make_v a_o great_a deal_n o●_n business_n and_o noise_n about_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v but_o of_o little_a moment_n as_o if_o the_o whole_a and_o some_o o●_n religion_n lie_v in_o they_o this_o certain_o show_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o untenderness_n and_o slight_v of_o conscience_n what_o ever_o pretension_n may_v be_v make_v to_o the_o contrary_a and_o while_o a_o person_n be_v much_o or_o whole_o take_v up_o with_o a_o extrinsic_a or_o very_o little_a thing_n which_o it_o may_v be_v be_v but_o a_o mere_a circumstance_n and_o be_v more_o affect_v with_o and_o exercise_v about_o that_o then_o with_o and_o about_o another_o of_o far_o great_a concernment_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a any_o awe_n of_o god_n nor_o of_o conscience_n but_o somewhat_o flow_v from_o the_o man_n own_o inclination_n or_o interest_n that_o so_o mighty_o influence_v and_o stir_v he_o in_o the_o one_o beyond_o what_o he_o be_v in_o the_o other_o 4_o you_o will_v advert_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n to_o this_o if_o conscience_n in_o the_o challenge_n make_v the_o sin_n vile_a and_o abominable_a to_o you_o and_o yourselves_o loathsome_a to_o yourselves_o when_o conscience_n whet_v to_o say_v so_o the_o edge_n of_o the_o challenge_n not_o only_o to_o the_o make_n of_o god_n wrath_n terrible_a and_o the_o awe_n fear_v and_o dread_n of_o he_o weighty_a but_o also_o to_o the_o deep_a affect_v of_o ourselves_o with_o the_o vileness_n and_o loathsomeness_n of_o the_o thing_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o the_o conscience_n be_v right_a for_o as_o its_o a_o good_a token_n of_o the_o soundness_n of_o repentance_n when_o it_o make_v sin_n as_o such_o loathsome_a so_o be_v a_o good_a token_n of_o conscience_n speak_v right_o when_o it_o hold_v forth_o convince_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o sin_n 〈◊〉_d you_o may_v know_v when_o conscience_n speak_v a_o right_a by_o the_o native_a fruit_n that_o follow_v upon_o it_o such_o as_o these_o 1._o it_o make_v a_o deep_a impression_n of_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o fear_n of_o sin_n on_o the_o heart_n it_o make_v the_o spirit_n more_o compose_v stay_v and_o present_a when_o after_o self-examination_n right_o go_v about_o conscience_n speak_v its_o own_o language_n for_o it_o know_v that_o god_n speak_v and_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o divinness_n with_o it_o 2_o it_o make_v the_o man_n more_o watchful_a and_o the_o loath_a to_o adventure_v on_o sin_n for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v 3_o it_o still_v and_o calm_v the_o heart_n o_o but_o that_o be_v a_o stately_a and_o majestic_a word_n psal._n 46._o be_v still_o and_o know_v that_o i_o be_o god_n for_o we_o can_v conceive_v god_n to_o be_v speak_v if_o we_o be_v right_a but_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v calm_v to_o hear_v and_o will_v be_v gather_v in_o from_o its_o waver_n gading_n and_o vaiging_n when_o it_o know_v that_o he_o speak_v all_o which_o we_o may_v see_v psal._n 4._o 3._o 4._o stand_v in_o awe_n and_o sin_n not_o where_o he_o exhort_v to_o holy_a fear_n and_o watchfulness_n and_o the_o mean_a to_o bring_v both_o about_o be_v commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n betake_v yourselves_o to_o this_o work_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v of_o self_n examination_n and_o then_o the_o 3d._n follow_v be_v still_o as_o be_v stay_v and_o fix_v quiet_v and_o calm_v against_o reilling-to_a and_o fro_o up_o and_o down_o and_o against_o all_o struggle_a with_o god_n and_o fret_v at_o his_o providence_n because_o you_o have_v to_o do_v with_o he_o and_o not_o with_o man_n we_o shall_v not_o proceed_v further_o for_o the_o time_n only_o you_o may_v see_v from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v if_o we_o look_v single_o on_o it_o that_o there_o be_v here_o a_o most_o clear_a useful_a and_o necessary_a duty_n at_o all_o time_n and_o more_o especial_o at_o this_o time_n we_o say_v especial_o at_o this_o time_n for_o these_o reason_n 1._o because_o of_o the_o common_a and_o general_a security_n and_o formal_a way_n of_o go_v about_o duty_n that_o be_v steal_v in_o among_o christian_n at_o this_o time_n and_o there_o can_v be_v a_o better_a mean_v to_o help_v this_o then_o to_o give_v ourselves_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o self-examination_n and_o to_o the_o trial_n of_o our_o way_n this_o serious_o go_v about_o will_v make_v we_o renze_v and_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o in_o good_a earnest_n to_o cry_v mighty_o to_o god_n and_o if_o this_o be_v a_o time_n that_o have_v such_o a_o evil_n in_o it_o as_o great_a security_n and_o formality_n and_o if_o this_o be_v a_o duty_n that_o may_v throw_v god_n blessing_n help_v the_o same_o let_v none_o complain_v of_o over_o liness_n coldness_n and_o lifelesnesse_a in_o religion_n that_o be_v not_o serious_o mind_v and_o go_v about_o this_o as_o a_o necessary_a profitable_a and_o excellent_a mean_n to_o amend_v it_o 2_o because_o there_o be_v much_o false_a bulk_n and_o empty_a show_n of_o a_o profession_n which_o we_o be_v afraid_a but_o a_o very_a little_a trial_n will_v quick_o evidence_n and_o discover_v to_o be_v so_o even_o to_o be_v unsure_a work_n i_o will_v not_o say_v but_o there_o may_v be_v some_o sickernesse_n and_o solidity_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o some_o but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o many_o other_o be_v but_o build_v castle_n in_o the_o air_n castle_n of_o come_v down_o when_o the_o rain_n shall_v descend_v the_o wind_n blow_v and_o the_o flood_n beat_v have_v much_o more_o show_v then_o substance_n and_o solid_a work_n and_o the_o way_n to_o make_v it_o sick_a sure_a and_o solid_a work_n that_o will_v abide_v the_o trial_n be_v to_o lay_v it_o to_o the_o rule_n and_o to_o try_v it_o thereby_o many_o profess_a christian_n be_v like_a to_o foolish_a builder_n who_o build_v by_o guess_n and_o by_o rule_n of_o thumb_n as_o we_o use_v to_o speak_v and_o not_o by_o square_a and_o rule_n and_o if_o they_o have_v but_o bulk_n enough_o they_o look_v not_o much_o to_o the_o solidity_n and_o straightness_n of_o the_o fabric_n there_o be_v many_o engadgement_n come_v under_o many_o fasting_n
prayer_n hear_n of_o the_o word_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v good_a in_o themselves_o and_o commendable_a but_o there_o will_v be_v self-examination_n to_o see_v what_o solidity_n be_v in_o they_o all_o else_o we_o will_v be_v like_o the_o man_n who_o expend_v all_o their_o stock_n on_o the_o stone_n and_o timber-work_n of_o a_o large_a house_n and_o leave_v nothing_o to_o plenish_v and_o furnish_v it_o within_o whereas_o when_o a_o person_n be_v suitable_o and_o serious_o take_v up_o with_o self-examination_n it_o make_v a_o house_n to_o speak_v so_o though_o it_o shall_v be_v less_o to_o be_v well_o fill_v and_o furnish_v and_o albeit_o there_o be_v no_o great_a noise_n of_o a_o profession_n there_o yet_o there_o be_v more_o kindly_a repentance_n more_o seriousness_n in_o prayer_n and_o in_o other_o duty_n more_o profit_v by_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n and_o more_o holiness_n of_o life_n then_o where_o this_o exercise_n of_o self-examination_n and_o reflection_n be_v either_o altogether_o or_o very_o much_o neglect_v albeit_o there_o shall_v be_v then_o a_o far_o great_a profession_n 3_o because_o we_o have_v be_v engage_v in_o and_o have_v put_v many_o thing_n to_o say_v so_o through_o our_o hand_n these_o year_n past_a and_o we_o be_v afraid_a that_o many_o have_v not_o much_o consult_v nor_o look_v well_o into_o conscience_n in_o meddle_v with_o they_o there_o have_v be_v several_a strange_a un-couth_a and_o scarce_o hear_v of_o thing_n in_o the_o way_n of_o some_o and_o lesser_a fail_n slip_n and_o escape_n in_o the_o way_n of_o other_o and_o no_o doubt_n the_o less_o pain_n be_v take_v by_o man_n to_o be_v clear_v and_o satisfy_v in_o their_o conscience_n before_o such_o thing_n be_v meddle_v with_o and_o engage_v in_o there_o will_v be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o pain_n take_v now_o to_o reflect_v on_o they_o when_o past_a and_o to_o bring_v they_o in_o before_o conscience_n to_o receive_v its_o verdict_n of_o they_o and_o sure_o we_o can_v never_o walk_v for_o time_n to_o come_v with_o that_o straightness_n and_o solidity_n if_o we_o be_v not_o at_o some_o point_n by_o self-searching_a as_o to_o thing_n past_a and_o present_a 4_o because_o if_o we_o know_v not_o what_o have_v be_v right_a or_o wrong_n in_o thing_n past_a the_o dispensation_n of_o divine_a providence_n which_o we_o have_v meet_v with_o call_v aloud_o on_o we_o to_o examine_v what_o god_n speak_v to_o we_o by_o they_o for_o he_o have_v make_v we_o to_o be_v witness_n of_o very_o strange_a thing_n of_o public_a dispensation_n such_o as_o neither_o we_o nor_o our_o father_n ever_o see_v the_o like_a and_o have_v not_o this_o same_o place_n in_o particular_a fall_v under_o strange_a providence_n both_o as_o to_o our_o temporal_n and_o spiritual_n and_o if_o the_o dispensation_n of_o god_n call_v and_o press_v any_o to_o this_o exercise_n of_o reflection_n and_o examination_n then_o certain_o they_o call_v and_o press_v we_o to_o it_o therefore_o see_v we_o be_v call_v to_o this_o not_o only_o as_o a_o duty_n common_a to_o all_o time_n but_o as_o somewhat_o peculiar_a to_o this_o time_n and_o to_o we_o in_o this_o place_n we_o will_v make_v the_o more_o conscience_n of_o it_o and_o will_v also_o know_v that_o if_o it_o be_v slight_v the_o great_a will_v our_o guiltiness_n be_v that_o have_v so_o many_o thing_n urgent_o call_v we_o to_o it_o whether_o then_o you_o remember_v all_o or_o most_o or_o many_o particular_n or_o not_o remember_v and_o carry_v along_o with_o you_o this_o general_a that_o you_o have_v a_o conscience_n and_o that_o you_o be_v call_v and_o concern_v to_o remember_v to_o reflect_v on_o and_o to_o examine_v your_o way_n at_o the_o bar_n of_o conscience_n well_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n and_o if_o you_o be_v suitable_o serious_a in_o the_o general_n god_n will_v gracious_o condescend_v to_o lay_v particular_a help_n to_o your_o hand_n sermon_n iii_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o for_o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o in_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n if_o a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n be_v a_o excellent_a thing_n and_o if_o the_o rejoice_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o be_v a_o excellent_a thing_n then_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v a_o very_a excellent_a and_o desirable_a thing_n to_o study_v through_o acquaintance_n with_o our_o own_o heart_n and_o way_n and_o to_o try_v our_o particular_a carriage_n by_o our_o conscience_n inform_v by_o the_o word_n this_o practice_n have_v so_o much_o influence_n on_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o be_v so_o conducible_a to_o a_o well-grounded_n rejoice_v in_o god_n for_o doubtless_o there_o can_v be_v nothing_o more_o contributive_a to_o these_o notable_a and_o noble_a end_n then_o to_o give_v conscience_n its_o due_a regard_n and_o place_n and_o to_o lay_v due_a weight_n upon_o it_o in_o its_o pass_a censure_n of_o our_o way_n and_o to_o be_v clear_a and_o distinct_a in_o its_o sentence_n of_o our_o bypass_a carriage_n and_o proceed_n we_o may_v say_v of_o conscience_n in_o this_o work_n as_o solomon_n say_v of_o that_o king_n prov._n 20._o 8._o who_o sit_v on_o the_o throne_n of_o judgement_n scatter_v away_o all_o evil_n with_o his_o eye_n when_o conscience_n as_o the_o great_a and_o sovereign_a god_n his_o deputy_n sit_v on_o its_o throne_n as_o it_o be_v it_o have_v a_o divine_a authority_n and_o majesty_n whereby_o it_o scatter_v all_o these_o evil_n that_o haunt_v the_o heart_n so_o that_o they_o can_v endure_v and_o stand_v before_o it_o but_o must_v flee_v away_o and_o because_o this_o have_v so_o very_a much_o influence_n on_o a_o christian_a walk_n we_o shall_v speak_v a_o word_n further_o to_o what_o flow_v from_o the_o doctrine_n propose_v the_o other_o day_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v for_o a_o use_v of_o reproof_n and_o expostulation_n which_o we_o name_v as_o the_o four_o use_n of_o it_o to_o and_o with_o christian_n that_o profess_v to_o have_v a_o tender_a walk_n and_o yet_o much_o slight_v this_o duty_n which_o be_v a_o main_a part_n of_o it_o and_o singular_o helpful_a to_o the_o whole_a of_o it_o for_o if_o the_o search_n of_o our_o way_n and_o the_o try_v of_o it_o by_o conscience_n be_v a_o main_a piece_n and_o part_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n ●o_o that_o they_o who_o be_v much_o in_o the_o one_o have_v also_o much_o of_o the_o other_o and_o none_o have_v be_v of_o a_o tender_a conscience_n and_o walk_n but_o they_o have_v be_v tender_a in_o this_o part_n of_o it_o to_o have_v conscience_n its_o sense_n and_o testimony_n of_o their_o bypass_a walk_n then_o there_o be_v ground_n of_o reproof_n to_o and_o expostulation_n with_o these_o who_o either_o neglect_n or_o slight_v it_o and_o this_o be_v it_o that_o we_o will_v now_o speak_v to_o even_o to_o reprove_v and_o expostular_a with_o many_o profess_a christian_n who_o will_v be_v loath_a to_o be_v account_v gross_a and_o untender_a in_o their_o walk_n who_o yet_o neglect_v this_o so_o main_a a_o piece_n of_o a_o christianly_o tender_v walk_v and_o before_o we_o fall_v on_o particular_n we_o will_v speak_v a_o little_a to_o ●ome_o evidence●_n for_o make_v it_o out_o what_o just_a ground_n there_o be_v to_o reprove_v and_o expostulat_v on_o this_o account_n even_o for_o the_o neglect_n of_o so_o clear_a and_o profitable_a a_o duty_n and_o 1._o may_v we_o not_o in_o the_o general_a charge_n most_o for_o a_o utter_a neglect_n of_o this_o and_o all_o for_o much_o overlinesse_n in_o it_o ask_v your_o own_o conscience_n if_o you_o be_v call_v to_o a_o account_n before_o god_n how_o you_o will_v answer_v as_o to_o this_o particular_a dare_v you_o say_v that_o you_o have_v make_v conscience_n serious_o and_o suitable_o to_o reflect_v upon_o your_o case_n and_o way_n and_o that_o you_o have_v be_v tender_o concern_v to_o find_v out_o what_o be_v right_a and_o what_o be_v wrong_v in_o it_o and_o to_o have_v conscience_n its_o approbatory_n or_o condemnatory_a sense_n and_o sentence_n thereof_o &_o to_o be_v affect_v answerable_o as_o you_o find_v matter_n betwixt_o god_n and_o you_o we_o be_v sure_o there_o be_v none_o of_o we_o though_o we_o can_v say_v we_o have_v be_v go_v about_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n such_o as_o prayer_n reading_n and_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n etc._n etc._n but_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o charge_v ourselves_o with_o much_o guilt_n as_o to_o our_o little_a serious_a go_v about_o this_o particular_a duty_n to_o be_v dumb_a and_o silent_a and_o to_o go_v with_o a_o stop_a mouth_n before_o god_n be_v there_o any_o that_o can_v say_v i_o have_v be_v clean_o
in_o this_o matter_n a_o second_o evidence_n may_v be_v take_v from_o the_o sad_a effect_n that_o in_o our_o way_n follow_v the_o neglect_n or_o overly_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n which_o when_o find_v they_o may_v let_v we_o know_v and_o convince_v we_o that_o it_o be_v either_o much_o slight_v or_o quite_o neglect_v and_o 1._o we_o will_v ask_v you_o how_o many_o be_v acquaint_v with_o and_o see_v in_o their_o own_o soul_n condition_n or_o can_v on_o distinct_a ground_n as_o have_v examine_v and_o try_v their_o heart_n and_o way_n pass_v sentence_n upon_o their_o case_n and_o say_v thus_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o i_o and_o if_o you_o be_v un_fw-we acquaint_v with_o your_o own_o case_n do_v not_o that_o say_v undeniable_o that_o you_o walk_v by_o guess_n as_o it_o be_v and_o not_o according_a to_o this_o rule_n 2_o what_o mean_v the_o exceed_a great_a security_n presumption_n and_o self-conceit_n that_o many_o be_v in_o and_o under_o concern_v themselves_o and_o their_o way_n which_o not_o flow_v from_o a_o well-grounded_n persuasion_n of_o the_o straightness_n thereof_o must_v it_o not_o necessary_o flow_v from_o their_o neglect_n of_o this_o self-reflection_n and_o trial_n and_o whence_o i_o pray_v be_v it_o that_o there_o be_v so_o little_a repentance_n for_o sin_n be_v it_o because_o there_o be_v no_o sin_n nor_o ground_n of_o quarrel_n no_o certain_o it_o must_v therefore_o be_v from_o man_n not_o review_v of_o and_o reflect_v on_o themselves_o and_o their_o way_n that_o they_o may_v find_v it_o out_o which_o plain_o say_v that_o this_o evil_n be_v predominant_a 3_o ●ook_v to_o the_o abound_v of_o sin_n to_o the_o little_a growth_n of_o mortification_n to_o the_o liveliness_n of_o lust_n to_o the_o room_n that_o idol_n have_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o its_o gade_v after_o they_o will_v not_o these_o declare_v that_o most_o person_n but_o very_o seldom_o bring_v themselves_o before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o their_o conscience_n otherways_o lust_n dare_v not_o set_v up_o their_o head_n as_o they_o do_v this_o king_n will_v scatter_v away_o all_o evil_n with_o his_o eye_n and_o man_n will_v not_o have_v such_o delight_n in_o they_o if_o they_o be_v often_o arraign_v they_o at_o this_o bar._n 4_o what_o mean_v the_o little_a solid_a peace_n and_o rejoice_v in_o god_n that_o most_o professor_n have_v and_o their_o live_n in_o such_o a_o fluctuate_a and_o conjectural_a way_n be_v it_o not_o from_o this_o that_o they_o do_v not_o examine_v and_o put_v to_o the_o trial_n the_o ground_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o joy_n now_o all_o these_o sad_a and_o woeful_a evidence_n and_o effect_n be_v put_v together_o it_o be_v beyond_o all_o doubt_n that_o there_o be_v at_o this_o time_n among_o we_o much_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n by_o the_o conscientious_a discharge_n whereof_o these_o dreadful_a effect_n may_v be_v remove_v these_o evidence_n of_o the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v palpable_a we_o come_v now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n close_o to_o the_o reproof_n of_o it_o and_o expostulation_n for_o it_o and_o be_v there_o not_o just_a ground_n for_o both_o i_o there_fw-mi say_v if_o many_o of_o you_o be_v alk_v about_o this_o duty_n it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v a_o unknown_a duty_n to_o you_o a_o duty_n that_o you_o walk_v not_o under_o the_o conviction_n of_o its_o necessity_n a_o duty_n that_o you_o be_v not_o mourn_v for_o the_o neglect_n of_o nor_o employ_v jesus_n christ_n for_o grace_n to_o get_v it_o suitable_o perform_v and_o can_v that_o think_v you_o be_v a_o tender_a walk_n that_o be_v so_o very_o short_a and_o defective_a in_o so_o main_a a_o duty_n and_o in_o so_o great_a a_o piece_n and_o part_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n when_o especial_o person_n be_v not_o due_o sensible_a of_o it_o nor_o suitable_o affect_v with_o it_o let_v i_o but_o ask_v such_o of_o you_o who_o make_v little_a account_n of_o the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n these_o few_o question_n 1._o do_v you_o think_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n within_o you_o as_o a_o conscience_n and_o if_o you_o think_v you_o have_v conscience_n have_v you_o they_o for_o no_o end_n nor_o use_n or_o will_v you_o let_v they_o as_o it_o be_v be_v in_o you_o and_o lie_v by_o you_o as_o thing_n give_v you_o to_o no_o purpose_n 2_o i_o ask_v you_o be_v there_o nothing_o in_o your_o case_n or_o way_n that_o need_v a_o review_n be_v all_o right_a and_o nothing_o out_o of_o order_n will_v you_o own_o these_o to_o be_v truth_n if_o not_o ought_v not_o this_o mean_a to_o be_v use_v for_o help_v you_o to_o find_v out_o what_o be_v wrong_a and_o what_o be_v right_a if_o any_o thing_n be_v right_a it_o be_v a_o strange_a thing_n for_o a_o profess_a christian_a to_o think_v or_o say_v that_o he_o be_v altogether_o right_a and_o that_o he_o need_v not_o to_o examine_v himself_o and_o yet_o he_o must_v either_o think_v this_o or_o else_o he_o say_v on_o the_o matter_n that_o he_o ear_n not_o whether_o he_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n which_o indeed_o the_o practice_n of_o many_o say_v plain_o or_o he_o must_v examine_v to_o find_v out_o what_o be_v right_a and_o what_o be_v wrong_a 3_o i_o will_v ask_v you_o do_v you_o think_v that_o your_o conscience_n will_v be_v always_o quiet_a because_o you_o command_v it_o not_o to_o speak_v or_o rather_o be_v there_o not_o a_o time_n come_v when_o it_o will_v speak_v whether_o you_o will_v or_o not_o or_o do_v you_o think_v because_o you_o have_v no_o remembrance_n of_o your_o fault_n that_o your_o forget_v of_o they_o now_o will_v blot_v they_o out_o of_o your_o conscience_n register_n or_o rather_o shall_v you_o not_o judge_v yourselves_o that_o you_o may_v not_o be_v judge_v according_a to_o the_o apostle_n word_n 1_o cor._n 11._o v._n 31._o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a shall_v you_o not_o think_v that_o if_o you_o do_v not_o judge_v yourselves_o you_o will_v most_o certain_o be_v judge_v 4_o i_o will_v ask_v you_o be_v it_o not_o better_a to_o put_v your_o conscience_n to_o speak_v in_o time_n when_o thing_n may_v be_v right_v and_o amend_v then_o to_o let_v they_o lie_v over_o and_o sleep_v till_o they_o be_v pass_v remedy_n o_o when_o will_v you_o consider_v and_o lay_v to_o heart_n what_o trouble_n terror_n and_o confusion_n reach_v and_o take_v hold_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o many_o at_o death_n and_o will_v do_v so_o much_o more_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o much_o better_a in_o time_n to_o try_v thing_n and_o find_v out_o what_o be_v right_a and_o what_o be_v wrong_a that_o conscience_n may_v not_o have_v a_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n against_o you_o in_o that_o day_n and_o may_v not_o have_v it_o to_o say_v to_o you_o you_o never_o own_v i_o when_o you_o be_v live_v in_o the_o world_n and_o now_o i_o will_v read_v to_o you_o a_o fearful_a indictment_n and_o dittay_n that_o have_v stand_v long_o on_o record_n against_o you_o and_o upon_o this_o arise_v the_o horror_n and_o gnaw_a worm_n that_o never_o die_v hence_o be_v the_o fire_n blow_v that_o never_o be_v quench_v all_o which_o i_o say_v flow_v from_o conscience_n represent_v to_o man_n and_o woman_n in_o a_o most_o formidable_a manner_n their_o way_n which_o before_o they_o will_v never_o believe_v nor_o once_o serious_o put_v the_o matter_n to_o the_o trial_n whether_o it_o will_v do_v so_o or_o not_o in_o further_a prosecution_n of_o this_o use_n and_o to_o make_v that_o the_o more_o plain_a which_o we_o will_v main_o be_v at_o in_o it_o we_o shall_v 1._o speak_v a_o little_a to_o several_a sort_n of_o person_n who_o we_o suppose_v be_v guilty_a of_o the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n 2._o a_o little_a to_o the_o evil_n that_o follow_v and_o flow_v from_o the_o guilt_n of_o this_o neglect_n 3._o to_o the_o cause_n o●_n their_o continue_v in_o this_o sinful_a neglect_n 4._o a_o little_a to_o what_o may_v direct_v towards_o the_o facilitating_a and_o make_v easy_a the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o to_o the_o make_n of_o it_o profitable_a and_o useful_a for_o the_o first_o of_o these_o viz._n the_o several_a sort_n of_o person_n that_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o utter_a neglect_n of_o the_o duty_n or_o of_o much_o short-coming_a and_o overlinesse_n in_o perform_v it_o they_o may_v be_v reduce_v to_o these_o six_o the_o 1._o soft_a be_v they_o that_o make_v no_o conscience_n at_o all_o of_o any_o thing_n in_o religion_n that_o never_o know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o make_v conscience_n to_o pray_v read_v the_o word_n confer_v on_o it_o repent_v or_o of_o any_o other_o duty_n
clear_a command_n yea_o as_o its_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o notable_a mean_n for_o the_o suitable_a performance_n of_o all_o other_o duty_n so_o that_o wherever_o prayer_n repentance_n hear_v read_v etc._n etc._n be_v command_v this_o be_v also_o on_o the_o matter_n command_v and_o as_o many_o duty_n as_o be_v command_v of_o as_o many_o breach_n of_o these_o command_n be_v we_o guilty_a when_o this_o duty_n be_v neglect_v consider_v that_o when_o ever_o we_o be_v command_v to_o do_v any_o duty_n we_o be_v command_v also_o to_o use_v all_o the_o mean_n that_o may_v further_o we_o towards_o the_o suitable_a performance_n thereof_o and_o this_o be_v a_o special_a mean_a requisite_a to_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o every_o duty_n it_o be_v therefore_o command_v in_o every_o other_o command_v duty_n we_o may_v in●ance_v it_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n this_o help_v a_o man_n to_o begin_v it_o aright_o it_o go_v along_o with_o he_o in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o day_n and_o when_o it_o be_v over_o and_o by_o it_o help_v he_o to_o discover_v his_o ●ailings_n and_o short_a come_n and_o his_o act_n of_o grace_n where_o it_o be_v and_o spiritual_a attainment_n in_o these_o duty_n and_o to_o be_v according_o affect_v and_o the_o neglect_n of_o it_o be_v à_fw-fr breach_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n both_o before_o and_o after_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o public_a or_o private_a or_o secret_a duty_n of_o worship_n call_v for_o on_o that_o day_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o duty_n 4_o we_o may_v look_v upon_o it_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o be_v a_o nursery_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o evil_n it_o harbour_v end_n entertain_v lust_n it_o harden_v the_o heart_n strengthen_v security_n it_o cherish_v hypocrisy_n it_o bring_v on_o formality_n and_o impenitency_n it_o as_o it_o be_v lock_v up_o in_o presumption_n and_o carnal_a confidence_n it_o wear_v man_n out_o from_o under_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o from_o under_o all_o due_a respect_n to_o conscience_n the_o man_n that_o make_v conscience_n of_o self-examination_n will_v be_v afraid_a of_o a_o challenge_n but_o he_o that_o use_v not_o and_o care_v not_o to_o examine_v himself_o pull_v as_o it_o be_v the_o bridle_n out_o of_o his_o own_o head_n run_v at_o random_n give_v himself_o up_o and_o lay_v himself_o open_a to_o every_o sin_n and_o temptation_n without_o fear_n of_o challenge_n and_o if_o you_o will_v look_v well_o about_o you_o and_o observe_v narrow_o will_v you_o not_o find_v that_o the_o man_n that_o rush_v impetuous_o into_o a_o course_n of_o sin_n as_o the_o horse_n rush_v into_o the_o b●ttel_n be_v very_o ready_o he_o that_o quite_o neglect_v and_o despise_v this_o duty_n of_o examination_n of_o his_o way_n by_o his_o conscience_n or_o before_o the_o tribunal_n thereof_o and_o when_o i_o pray_v be_v person_n most_o tender_a or_o untender_a be_v it_o not_o when_o they_o be_v most_o impartial_a or_o most_o partial_a in_o this_o work_n of_o set_v themselves_o down_o to_o take_v a_o serious_a review_n of_o their_o case_n and_o way_n and_o ●illing_v themselves_o before_o their_o conscience_n to_o review_v the_o sentence_n thereof_o as_o for_o the_o 3d._a thing_n propose_v to_o be_v speak_v of_o viz._n the_o cause_n of_o this_o so_o abominable_a and_o gross_o sinful_a neglect_n they_o may_v easy_o and_o soon_o be_v find_v out_o if_o we_o know_v and_o consider_v what_o a_o nature_n we_o have_v so_o very_o averse_a from_o true_a holiness_n yea_o the_o more_o sublime_o holy_a and_o spiritual_a that_o duty_n be_v the_o more_o averse_a natural_o be_v we_o from_o they_o as_o its_o much_o easy_a to_o bring_v a_o man_n to_o the_o profession_n than_o it_o be_v to_o bring_v he_o to_o the_o power_n of_o religion_n so_o be_v it_o much_o more_o easieto_fw-la bring_v a_o man_n to_o the_o practice_n of_o many_o external_a duty_n thereof_o then_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o one_o inward_a duty_n it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o ●neding_a knife_n to_o corruption_n bring_v a_o man_n to_o strict_a at_o the_o very_a roo●_n and_o life_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o set_n of_o he_o on_o the_o black-stone_n learning_n he_o be_v the_o more_o averse_a from_o it_o we_o may_v add_v to_o this_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o influence_n that_o the_o devil_n have_v on_o we_o in_o this_o neglect_n who_o know_v well_o how_o prejudicial_a to_o he_o to_o his_o kingdom_n and_o interest_n and_o how_o advantageous_a to_o the_o sinner_n this_o duty_n be_v he_o labour_v mighty_o to_o hold_v all_o in_o confusion_n and_o to_o keep_v the_o soul_n fast_o asleep_a as_o that_o which_o contribut_v much_o if_o not_o most_o to_o the_o gain_n of_o his_o point_n for_o he_o know_v by_o experience_n very_o gall_v to_o he_o that_o self-examination_n awake_v a_o man_n and_o give_v he_o a_o view_n of_o himself_o and_o put_v he_o to_o think_v how_o he_o may_v be_v rescue_v from_o this_o destrover_n and_o therefore_o he_o do_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n hate_n abhor_v and_o set_v himself_o against_o it_o and_o though_o he_o will_v suffer_v a_o man_n to_o do_v many_o other_o religious_a duty_n yet_o he_o labour_v by_o all_o mean_n to_o keep_v he_o from_o this_o duty_n because_o it_o help●_n much_o through_o grace_n to_o make_v he_o cast_v out_o with_o himself_o and_o his_o own_o way_n and_o so_o make_v satan_n in_o a_o manner_n hopeless_a of_o he_o more_o particular_o we_o may_v assign_v these_o cause_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d from_o people_n own_o practice_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v 〈◊〉_d that_o many_o man_n and_o woman_n live_v so_o that_o their_o life_n can_v abide_v the_o trial_n he_o that_o do_v evil_a say_v the_o lord_n john_n 3._o hate_v the_o light_n neither_o 〈◊〉_d unto_o the_o 〈◊〉_d test_n his_o deed_n shall_v be_v reprove_v it_o be_v no_o wonder_n that_o a_o malefactor_n desire_v not_o to_o come_v before_o the_o 〈◊〉_d and_o it_o be_v as_o little_a wonder_n that_o a_o man_n or_o woman_n that_o live_v a_o sinful_a and_o evil_a life_n de●ire_v not_o to_o come_v before_o their_o conscience_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o dare_v not_o go_v to_o their_o conscience_n because_o it_o never_o speak_v good_a but_o evil_a to_o they_o as_o indeed_o it_o have_v no_o other_o reason_n and_o on_o that_o account_n they_o even_o hate_v it_o as_o achab_n do_v the_o prophet_n micajah_n of_o who_o he_o say_v i_o hate_v he_o because_o he_o never_o prophecy_v good_a but_o evil_n to_o i_o and_o that_o they_o will_v rather_o consult_v fl●sh_a and_o blood_n their_o own_o inclination_n and_o affection_n than_o their_o conscience_n in_o a_o particular_a because_o they_o dread_v it_o will_v speak_v evil_a to_o they_o especial_o when_o they_o know_v that_o there_o be_v something_o palpable_o wrong_v in_o their_o way_n for_o in_o that_o case_n they_o conclude_v it_o will_v gloum_n on_o they_o and_o gall_v they_o and_o even_o prick_v they_o in_o the_o quick_a a_o second_o reason_n be_v because_o folk_n make_v not_o this_o work_n of_o self-examination_n habitual_a to_o themselves_o but_o delay_n and_o put_v off_o time_n till_o their_o case_n become_v so_o ravel_v and_o consuse_v that_o they_o be_v afraid_a to_o meddle_v with_o it_o and_o though_o they_o shall_v they_o grow_v heartless_a and_o out_o of_o hope_n to_o get_v it_o right_v just_o like_a man_n that_o can_v endure_v to_o adjust_a their_o account_n which_o they_o have_v suffer_v negligent_o to_o run_v long_o on_o and_o into_o great_a confusion_n a_o 3d._a cause_n may_v be_v this_o which_o respect_v believer_n in_o christ_n that_o even_o where_o person_n make_v conscience_n of_o their_o way_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o foolish_a precipitancy_n and_o haste_n make_v they_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o examination_n of_o themselves_o take_v up_o much_o of_o their_o time_n and_o that_o it_o be_v better_a to_o spend_v it_o in_o prayer_n or_o in_o read_v than_o that_o way_n not_o consider_v that_o its_o much_o better_a to_o have_v some_o little_a thing_n of_o religion_n solid_a then_o to_o have_v a_o great_a bulk_n of_o many_o duty_n without_o solidi●y_n or_o with_o very_o little_a of_o it_o these_o be_v like_a to_o the_o builder_n of_o a_o house_n who_o rickle_v up_o stone_n without_o square_a and_o ru●e_a and_o without_o mortar_n which_o possible_o fall_v and_o come_v down_o ere_o he_o come_v at_o the_o top_n of_o it_o a_o foolish_a haste_n to_o be_v forward_o make_v our_o work_n in_o religion_n to_o be_v oftentimes_o very_o unsolid_a alace_o ●ts_v not_o what_o b●lk_n we_o have_v not_o how_o soon_o we_o come_v to_o have_v it_o but_o what_o solidity_n and_o sickernesse_n we_o have_v that_o will_v give_v we_o peace_n comfort_n o●_n joy_n our_o common_a proverb_n hold_v true_a here_o that_o work_n
or_o thing_n that_o be_v well_o do_v be_v soon_o do_v a_o four_o cause_o may_v be_v which_o also_o respect_v even_a believer_n that_o we_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v if_o we_o be_v always_o about_o some_o duty_n it_o matter_n not_o so_o much_o what_o duty_n it_o be_v and_o hence_o it_o often_o come_v ●o_o pass_v that_o the_o time_n that_o shall_v be_v spend_v in_o self-examination_n we_o spend_v it_o in_o prayer_n reading_z or_o conference_n which_o ready_o go_v the_o worse_a with_o u●_n that_o examination_n be_v so_o much_o neglect_v therefore_o there_o will_v be_v wariness_n and_o circumspection_n here_o because_o that_o which_o give_v peace_n be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o be_v much_o in_o duty_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v in_o the_o duty_n that_o we_o be_v call_v ●o_o for_o the_o time_n there_o be_v a_o link_a of_o duty_n to_o another_o in_o a_o christian_a walk_n as_o so_o many_o jewel_n precious-stone_n or_o pearl_n in_o a_o chain_n necklace_n or_o bracelet_n so_o as_o they_o strengthen_v and_o help_v one_o another_o meditation_n help_v prayer_n and_o prayer_n self-examination_n and_o self-examination_n help_v prayer_n and_o every_o other_o duty_n and_o that_o which_o beautify_v and_o adorn_v the_o chain_n of_o a_o tender_a christian_a walk_n be_v the_o order_n and_o set_v of_o every_o duty_n in_o its_o own_o place_n every_o thing_n be_v beautiful_a in_o its_o own_o season_n and_o place_n thus_o the_o bless_a man_n be_v say_v psal._n 1_o to_o bring_v forth_o his_o fruit_n in_o his_o season_n in_o the_o four_o place_v according_a to_o the_o method_n propose_v we_o will_v very_o brief_o give_v you_o a_o few_o direction_n for_o facilitate_v the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o for_o make_v it_o successful_a and_o profitable_a and_o to_o this_o purpose_n 1._o learn_v to_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o the_o piece_n and_o step_n of_o your_o way_n and_o this_o will_v give_v you_o the_o better_a heart_n to_o look_v back_o on_o it_o if_o christian_n be_v tender_a in_o their_o walk_n it_o will_v bread_n ease_v to_o they_o in_o this_o duty_n in_o two_o respect_n 1._o it_o will_v make_v it_o sweet_a and_o refresh_a not_o have_v a_o evil_a and_o challenge_v conscience_n to_o meet_v with_o 2._o it_o will_v leave_v some_o savoury_a impression_n of_o the_o duty_n upon_o they_o which_o help_v to_o reflect_v with_o profit_n whereas_o when_o they_o post_v through_o duty_n to_o speak_v so_o and_o when_o they_o have_v do_v know_v not_o what_o they_o have_v be_v do_v how_o can_v they_o reflect_v a_o second_o direction_n be_v you_o will_v be_v much_o in_o lay_v out_o the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o your_o way_n before_o god_n in_o prayer_n you_o will_v not_o only_o be_v much_o in_o the_o peti●_n par●_n of_o prayer_n but_o also_o much_o in_o confession_n in_o read_v over_o as_o it_o be_v the_o legend_n of_o your_o life_n to_o god_n hearty_a acknowledge_v his_o grace_n in_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o righ●_n and_o humble_o take_v with_o that_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o wrong_v for_o when_o ●e_a study_n to_o look_v over_o and_o review_v your_o ●ay_n in_o prayer_n it_o help_v you_o to_o get_v the_o better_a and_o more_o impartial_a sight_n of_o the_o particular_n thereof_o in_o exam_n nation_n and_o when_o you_o do_v not_o dwell_v in_o a_o manner_n on_o the_o thought_n of_o your_o way_n in_o prayer_n it_o make_v it_o the_o more_o uncouth_a and_o confuse_a to_o you_o in_o examination_n thus_o when_o the_o sabbath_n come_v we_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o confess_v to_o god_n in_o prayer_n the_o sin_n that_o haunt_v we_o that_o day_n and_o this_o will_v help_v to_o examination_n and_o examination_n will_v help_v to_o be_v yet_o more_o particular_a in_o prayer_n 3_o as_o for_o other_o durke_n so_o for_o this_o you_o will_v have_v your_o set_a time_n of_o purpose_n i_o say_v for_o this_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o for_o prayer_n and_o will_v let_v no_o other_o duty_n shuffle_v it_o out_o of_o its_o own_o place_n and_o season_n for_o when_o we_o leave_v the_o time_n thereof_o at_o a_o uncertainty_n we_o ready_o shi●t_v and_o neglect_v it_o as_o in_o prayer_n though_o we_o will_v observe_v and_o take_v hold_v of_o all_o providential_a opportunity_n for_o it_o yet_o that_o do_v not_o hinder_v but_o we_o have_v and_o shall_v have_v our_o particular_a set_a time_n for_o it_o so_o ought_v it_o to_o be_v here_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v psal._n 4._o commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n or_o examine_v your_o se●ves_n upon_o your_o bed_n 4_o this_o set_a time_n will_v be_v when_o person_n be_v most_o fresh_a and_o fit_a for_o the_o duty_n and_o have_v the_o waite_v opportunity_n to_o insist_v in_o and_o to_o dwell_v on_o it_o and_o to_o follow_v it_o till_o they_o be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o till_o somewhat_o of_o it_o be_v reach_v for_o when_o we_o straiten_v ourselves_o and_o take_v not_o such_o a_o time_n as_o be_v fit_a for_o the_o duty_n we_o will_v not_o get_v it_o follow_v out_o to_o any_o purpose_n and_o get_v time_n also_o for_o prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n and_o that_o cause_v overlinesse_n ready_o in_o all_o we_o will_v therefore_o take_v such_o a_o time_n for_o this_o duty_n that_o we_o may_v not_o so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v forecast_v be_v divert_v and_o draw_v away_o from_o it_o by_o some_o other_o thing_n 5_o when_o some_o other_o thing_n not_o then_o necessary_a break_v in_o to_o divert_v and_o draw_v we_o away_o from_o it_o we_o will_v take_v ourselves_o again_o and_o again_o and_o endeavour_v to_o bring_v our_o heart_n back_o and_o up_o to_o the_o duty_n that_o they_o get_v not_o leave_v to_o break_v louse_n for_o if_o the_o heart_n get_v a_o custom_n of_o gade_v and_o admit_v of_o diversion_n it_o will_v never_o ready_o suffer_v we_o to_o be_v serious_a in_o this_o duty_n and_o therefore_o by_o all_o mean_n when_o you_o go_v about_o this_o duty_n of_o self_n examination_n beware_v of_o and_o guard_n against_o the_o intrusion_n of_o other_o thought_n whither_o they_o be_v vain_a or_o thought_n of_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v at_o another_o time_n profitable_a but_o at_o that_o time_n impertinent_a 6_o in_o your_o review_n of_o your_o condition_n or_o in_o your_o self-examination_n endeavour_v to_o find_v out_o and_o acknowledge_v the_o good_a as_o well_o as_o the_o evil_a that_o be_v in_o it_o and_o to_o find_v out_o the_o evil_a as_o well_o as_o the_o good_a and_o to_o ●e_v answerable_o affect_v with_o joy_n and_o thanksgiving_n for_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o with_o grief_n and_o sorrow_n for_o that_o which_o be_v evil_a 7_o endeavour_v to_o have_v yourself_o examination_n always_o in_o the_o close_a of_o it_o leave_v some_o kindly_a impression_n of_o your_o own_o sinfulness_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o of_o the_o necessity_n usefulness_n and_o worth_n of_o god_n grace_n on_o you_o and_o lay_v and_o leave_v you_o at_o christ_n foot_n for_o a_o remedy_n of_o every_o thing_n amiss_o in_o your_o condition_n this_o be_v ●he_v great_a scope_n and_o design_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o of_o all_o we_o have_v discourse_v on_o it_o even_o to_o send_v we_o to_o ch●ist_v and_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o leave_v we_o on_o he_o which_o will_v make_v the_o exercise_n of_o it_o heart_n some_o pleasant_a and_o profitable_a to_o we_o sermon_n iu._n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o for_o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o in_o 〈◊〉_d and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o to_o you_o ward_v there_o be_v hardly_o any_o thing_n excellent_a and_o very_o singular_o profitable_a to_o man_n but_o it_o have_v some_o more_o than_o ordinary_a difficulty_n in_o the_o way_n of_o come_v at_o it_o notwithstanding_o whereof_o they_o be_v not_o deter_v nor_o detain_v from_o pursue_v after_o it_o the_o consideration_n of_o its_o excellency_n with_o the_o expectation_n of_o the_o great_a income_n of_o advantage_n and_o profit_n by_o it_o make_v they_o the_o more_o easy_o comport_v with_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o and_o to_o think_v all_o their_o labour_n well_o bestow_v in_o overcome_v that_o difficulty_n so_o we_o may_v true_o say_v of_o the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n that_o it_o be_v so_o transcendent_o excellent_a as_o be_v that_o which_o beautiful_o conform_v the_o rational_a to_o the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o capacitat_v the_o same_o to_o enjoy_v fellowship_n with_o he_o wherein_o its_o true_a glory_n and_o excellency_n incontrovertible_o consist_v and_o so_o very_o profitable_a even_o profitable_a to_o all_o thing_n as_o nothing_o else_o in_o the_o world_n be_v have_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o life_n that_o
testimony_n yield_v which_o be_v fourfold_o 1._o it_o have_v with_o it_o inward_a quietness_n strength_n and_o comfort_n the_o well_o ground_v approve_v testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n calm_v the_o heart_n amid_o all_o storm_n of_o outward_a trouble_n or_o of_o inward_a challenge_n and_o tentation_n and_o put_v they_o all_o to_o silence_n it_o do_v fortify_v the_o heart_n to_o bear_v out_o in_o what_o ever_o trial_n it_o prove_v not_o only_o comfortable_a in_o the_o hold_n off_o challenge_v but_o have_v a_o joy_n and_o refresh_n flow_v immediate_o from_o the_o very_a testimony_n itself_o even_o a_o singular_o sweet_a joy_n that_o floorish_n and_o flow_v over_o and_o above_o these_o and_o keep_v the_o heart_n in_o a_o calm_a serenity_n the_o peace_n of_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n phil._n 4._o 7_o shall_v guard_v your_o heart_n and_o mind_n through_o christ_n jesus_n conscience_n testimony_n warrantable_o speak_v peace_n be_v like_o a_o garrison_n plant_v about_o the_o heart_n keep_v it_o as_o a_o impregnable_a and_o invincible_a strong_a hold_n or_o fort_n so_o that_o no_o trouble_n nor_o temptation_n from_o without_o nor_o stir_n of_o corruption_n or_o challenge_n from_o within_o do_v soon_o to_o say_v so_o set_v out_o their_o head_n but_o it_o overmatch_v they_o and_o preserve_v the_o heart_n quiet_a in_o despyt_n of_o they_o all_o 2_o this_o do_v also_o accompany_v this_o testimony_n as_o a_o ground_n of_o joy_n even_o the_o clear_n up_o of_o the_o person_n interest_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o sincerity_n and_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o which_o be_v very_o strengthen_v and_o comfort_v when_o a_o man_n have_v put_v his_o way_n to_o the_o trial_n in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n and_o find_v it_o to_o be_v square_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o have_v conscience_n testimony_n therein_o for_o he_o it_o sweet_o evidence_n to_o he_o his_o sincerity_n and_o so_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o christ_n which_o be_v attend_v with_o unspeakable_a joy_n 3_o this_o testimony_n give_v boldness_n and_o access_n with_o confidence_n to_o god_n to_o go_v heartsom_o and_o familiar_o to_o he_o in_o prayer_n under_o the_o multitude_n of_o temptation_n cross_n and_o reproach_n and_o be_v not_o this_o ground_n of_o great_a refresh_n and_o joy_n when_o a_o man_n may_v go_v to_o god_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o very_a heart_n in_o his_o bosom_n may_v not_o only_o tell_v he_o what_o he_o needs_o but_o also_o expect_v a_o gracious_a hear_n and_o return_v from_o he_o in_o whatsoever_o be_v needful_a if_o our_o heart_n say_v john_n 1_o epistle_n chap._n 2._o v._n 22._o condemn_v we_o not_o we_o have_v confidence_n towards_o god_n and_o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v pleasant_a in_o his_o sight_n though_o the_o man_n be_v empty-handed_n for_o the_o time_n and_o have_v not_o in_o himself_o whereupon_o he_o can_v be_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n either_o by_o suffering_n or_o do_v he_o may_v with_o humble_a boldness_n present_v his_o suit_n to_o god_n and_o expect_v from_o he_o whatsoever_o be_v good_a and_o needful_a for_o the_o man_n himself_o and_o what_o ever_o may_v be_v for_o his_o own_o honour_n in_o he_o and_o by_o he_o 4_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v attend_v it_o a_o clear_n &_o up-making_a fresh_a and_o lively_a hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o of_o a_o comfortable_a glorious_a and_o satisfy_a out-gate_n from_o all_o the_o difficulty_n temptation_n and_o trouble_n that_o he_o be_v in_o at_o present_a or_o may_v be_v in_o for_o the_o future_a it_o will_v make_v he_o according_a to_o his_o measure_n say_v as_o paul_n do_v 2_o tim._n 4._o 7_o 8._o i_o have_v fight_v a_o good_a fight_n i_o have_v finish_v my_o course_n i_o have_v keep_v the_o faith_n hence_o forth_o be_v lay_v up_o for_o i_o a_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n etc._n etc._n and_o by_o thus_o clear_v up_o the_o christian_n hope_v of_o eternal_a life_n a_o entrance_n be_v minister_v unto_o he_o abundant_o into_o the_o everlasting_a kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n as_o peter_n have_v it_o 2._o ep._n ch_n 1._o v_o 11._o and_o must_v it_o not_o be_v exceed_o and_o even_o unspeakable_o refresh_v and_o joyful_a to_o the_o christian_a to_o have_v all_o these_o try_v together_o in_o his_o case_n even_o while_o he_o be_v here_o sojourn_v in_o the_o earth_n doubtless_o it_o must_v the_o first_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n serve_v for_o exhort_v and_o beseech_v you_o all_o to_o study_v and_o be_v in_o love_n with_o a_o good_a conscience_n its_o unknown_a what_o solid_a sweet_a peace_n and_o joy_n you_o may_v have_v by_o it_o o_o endeavour_v through_o grace_n to_o be_v so_o tender_a straight_o and_o upright_o in_o your_o aim_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n that_o when_o you_o reflect_v on_o your_o way_n you_o may_v have_v its_o good_a testimony_n there_o will_v most_o certain_o be_v more_o peace_n find_v in_o this_o then_o in_o the_o great_a abundance_n of_o all_o earthly_a comfort_n though_o combine_v together_o at_o their_o very_a best_a can_v any_o of_o these_o calm_a a_o man_n mind_n in_o a_o storm_n of_o challenge_n for_o sin_n and_o of_o the_o terror_n of_o death_n do_v they_o not_o often_o rather_o leave_v man_n in_o great_a anxiety_n and_o perplexity_n then_o if_o they_o have_v never_o enjoy_v they_o yea_o often_o in_o the_o very_a mean_a time_n of_o these_o enjoyment_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o carnal_a joy_n and_o laughter_n that_o result_v from_o they_o the_o heart_n be_v sad_a through_o the_o want_n of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n therefore_o we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o you_o will_v have_v a_o pleasant_a and_o cheerful_a life_n and_o a_o comfortable_a and_o joyful_a death_n labour_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n that_o when_o you_o reflect_v on_o it_o it_o may_v testify_v for_o and_o speak_v good_a of_o and_o to_o you_o this_o as_o solomon_n say_v be_v a_o continual_a feast_n in_o life_n and_o a_o sovereign_a cordial_a against_o the_o terror_n of_o death_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o let_v we_o see_v the_o rise_n reason_n and_o cause_n of_o the_o great_a anxiety_n perplexity_n and_o vexation_n that_o be_v among_o most_o man_n so_o that_o they_o toil_v night_n and_o day_n and_o have_v no_o satisfaction_n it_o be_v even_o this_o that_o they_o do_v not_o seek_v after_o the_o peace_n and_o joy_n that_o be_v found_v upon_o and_o result_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n no_o wonder_n that_o such_o person_n live_v and_o die_v utter_a stranger_n to_o all_o solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n which_o only_o grow_v on_o this_o root_n this_o be_v a_o main_a cause_n also_o of_o the_o little_a peace_n and_o great_a heartlesnesse_n that_o be_v among_o even_a believer_n themselves_o that_o either_o they_o be_v not_o so_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n or_o they_o be_v not_o so_o careful_a to_o draw_v their_o rejoice_n from_o it_o but_o be_v untender_a in_o their_o walk_n or_o be_v as_o so_o many_o bee_n flee_v from_o this_o flower_n to_o the_o other_o of_o worldly_a enjoyment_n seek_v to_o suck_v some_o sweetness_n and_o satisfaction_n from_o they_o and_o do_v not_o as_o it_o become_v they_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n that_o they_o may_v have_v a_o testimony_n of_o sincerity_n from_o it_o and_o that_o on_o that_o ground_n they_o may_v be_v quiet_a cheerful_a and_o joyful_a the_o 3d._a use_n serve_v to_o discover_v to_o we_o what_o mighty_a prejudice_n flow_v from_o and_o follow_v upon_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n which_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o this_o testimony_n and_o on_o the_o neglect_n of_o self-examination_n a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n which_o help_v to_o draw_v forth_o this_o testimony_n and_o therefore_o as_o you_o will_v have_v this_o testimony_n and_o the_o refresh_a peace_n and_o joy_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o as_o you_o will_v have_v a_o heart_n holy_o triumph_v over_o all_o cross_n and_o difficulty_n affliction_n and_o tribulation_n design_n and_o endeavour_v more_o through_o grace_n to_o have_v a_o tender_a walk_n that_o you_o may_v lay_v a_o ground_n for_o this_o testimony_n and_o study_v to_o be_v more_o frequent_a in_o self-examination_n that_o thereby_o you_o may_v extract_v and_o draw_v it_o forth_o clear_o and_o convince_o for_o your_o peace_n comfort_n and_o joy_n can_v many_o of_o you_o be_v but_o once_o prevail_v with_o to_o prove_v and_o make_v trial_n what_o a_o comfortable_a
thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v conscience_n by_o this_o testimony_n smile_v on_o you_o you_o will_v be_v more_o in_o love_n with_o it_o and_o with_o the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n and_o particular_o with_o self-examination_n that_o make_v way_n for_o it_o however_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o ere_o long_o the_o day_n will_v come_v wherein_o many_o of_o youshall_n be_v make_v to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o this_o in_o your_o sad_a experience_n when_o death_n shall_v stair_n you_o grim_o in_o the_o face_n and_o when_o you_o shall_v neither_o be_v able_a to_o send_v nor_o to_o flee_v o_o of_o what_o excellent_a worth_n will_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n then_o be_v find_v to_o be_v hear_v witness_n to_o man_n concern_v their_o honesty_n sincerity_n uprightness_n and_o the_o tenderness_n of_o their_o walk_n many_o of_o you_o will_v find_v it_o though_o you_o believe_v it_o not_o now_o when_o you_o shall_v be_v eternal_o deprive_v of_o such_o a_o testimony_n you_o shall_v then_o be_v make_v to_o know_v to_o your_o everlasting_a cost_n that_o the_o rejoice_v of_o heart_n flow_v from_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v infinite_o preferable_a to_o all_o the_o worldly_a enjoyment_n and_o delight_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n i_o will_v beseech_v such_o of_o you_o as_o think_v yourselves_o to_o be_v wise_a in_o this_o world_n to_o study_v to_o be_v wise_a in_o this_o great_a point_n of_o wisdom_n if_o you_o want_v this_o testimony_n when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o last_o reckon_n you_o will_v be_v for_o ever_o undo_v and_o will_v never_o through_o all_o eternity_n once_o smile_v for_o joy_n but_o weep_v and_o gnash_v your_o tooth_n for_o the_o gnaw_a pain_n that_o the_o never_o die_a worm_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n shall_v cause_v to_o you_o 3_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n that_o will_v be_v thorough_o acquaint_v with_o his_o way_n and_o clear_a in_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n concern_v it_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o the_o examination_n thereof_o or_o thus_o he_o will_v not_o content_v himself_o with_o a_o general_a confuse_a trial_n of_o it_o altogether_o at_o once_o and_o in_o the_o bulk_n but_o he_o will_v try_v it_o by_o part_n and_o parcel_n thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o apostle_n here_o when_o he_o say_v that_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n that_o his_o conversation_n be_v not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n he_o subjoin_v and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n and_o so_o descend_v to_o the_o particular_a that_o be_v in_o controversy_n betwixt_o he_o and_o these_o big_a talk_a doctor_n that_o make_v it_o their_o great_a business_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n to_o derogat_v from_o the_o just_a repute_n of_o his_o person_n and_o ministry_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n concern_v his_o upright_a and_o faithful_a carriage_n in_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o they_o in_o particular_a when_o i_o say_v that_o person_n will_v try_v their_o way_n by_o part_n or_o piece_n i_o mean_v that_o they_o will_v try_v their_o particular_a action_n and_o behaviour_n in_o such_o and_o such_o place_n at_o such_o and_o such_o particular_a time_n of_o their_o life_n because_o by_o this_o mean_n they_o come_v to_o a_o more_o distinct_a knowledge_n of_o their_o carriage_n and_o way_n and_o it_o be_v impossible_a other_o way_n when_o man_n take_v up_o their_o way_n together_o by_o the_o lump_n as_o it_o be_v that_o they_o can_v win_v to_o distinctnes_n which_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v at_o in_o some_o measure_n ere_o they_o have_v a_o well_o ground_a testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n from_o solid_a and_o 〈◊〉_d ground_n again_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n wherein_o a_o man_n can_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d when_o he_o reflect_v under_o strong_a temptation_n on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d wise_a and_o sovereign_a providence_n of_o god_n as_o if_o he_o ●ed_v not_o the_o world_n and_o his_o people_n therein_o aright_o as_o abihu_n charge_v job_n some_o way_n to_o have_v do_v when_o he_o say●_n to_o he_o chap._n 33._o v._n 12._o behold_v in_o this_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d not_o just_a though_o job_n will_v not_o take_v with_o it_o that_o he_o be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d yet_o he_o be_v silent_a as_o to_o this_o part_n of_o the_o charge_n be_v its_o like_a convince_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o as_o also_o a_o man_n may_v have_v many_o thing_n very_o blame-worthy_a in_o his_o life_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v in_o one_o or_o more_o particular_n wherewith_o he_o be_v charge_v clear_a and_o innocent_a as_o it_o be_v with_o david_n who_o say_v psal._n 7._o 3._o if_o i_o have_v do_v this_o etc._n etc._n he_o have_v many_o blemish_n yet_o in_o this_o particular_a he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o therefore_o man_n will_v try_v their_o way_n by_o piece_n and_o part_n that_o they_o may_v disallow_v of_o these_o thing_n wherein_o they_o can_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n and_o may_v accept_v of_o its_o testimony_n in_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v right_a that_o they_o may_v reject_v a_o challenge_n when_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o and_o entertain_v it_o where_o there_o be_v ground_n a_o confuse_a general_a way_n of_o self-examination_n have_v two_o bad_a effect_n 1._o it_o keep_v person_n indistinct_a in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o their_o condition_n wherein_o they_o have_v a_o confuse_a fight_n of_o somewhat_o right_a and_o of_o somewhat_o wrong_a but_o know_v not_o what_o it_o i●_n in_o particular_a because_o they_o rest_v and_o sit_v down_o upon_o that_o general_a confuse_a look_n of_o their_o case_n and_o way_n and_o come_v not_o to_o condescend_v on_o particular_n 2_o person_n ready_o either_o absolve_v themselves_o as_o to_o the_o more_o general_a tract_n of_o their_o life_n because_o they_o see_v some_o thing_n honest_a like_o therein_o which_o keep_v they_o from_o take_v with_o just●_n challenge_v or_o else_o they_o condemn_v the_o whole_a of_o their_o life_n because_o they_o see_v something_n wrong_v in_o it_o which_o keep_v they_o from_o comfort_v themselves_o in_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n as_o to_o what_o be_v right_a therefore_o we_o will_v be_v particular_a in_o try_v our_o way_n as_o i_o say_v by_o part_n that_o every_o thing_n may_v have_v its_o own_o place_n and_o weight_n with_o u●_n 4_o consider_v these_o word_n as_o speak_v by_o paul_n who_o take_v much_o pain_n to_o prove_v and_o clear_v his_o condition_n and_o speak_v of_o this_o testimony_n as_o of_o a_o great_a matter_n he_o have_v attain_v to_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a but_o very_o difficult_a even_o for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v take_v pain_n in_o search_v himself_o to_o obtain_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o in_o a_o particular_a it_o be_v not_o so_o small_a a_o matter_n nor_o so_o easy_a a_o business_n as_o many_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n to_o follow_v the_o search_n right_o but_o it_o be_v so_o likeways_o to_o find_v thing_n right_a and_o to_o win_v at_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n as_o to_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o particular_a if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n paul_n will_v not_o lay_v such_o weight_n on_o it_o as_o he_o do_v now_o when_o i_o say_v its_o a_o great_a and_o difficult_a business_n i_o mean_v ●_o that_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n and_o such_o as_o every_o one_o do_v not_o attain_v to_o nay_o every_o believer_n have_v it_o not_o as_o to_o every_o part_n and_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n 2_o that_o it_o call_v for_o much_o tenderness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o whole_a of_o a_o man_n practice_n to_o reach_v it_o it_o will_v not_o be_v a_o coarse_a and_o ordinary_a walk_n and_o frame_v of_o heart_n that_o will_v give_v a_o man_n ground_n for_o this_o refresh_a testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n but_o it_o require_v much_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o godliness_n as_o be_v clear_a here_o 3_o that_o beside_o much_o seriousness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o universal_a exercise_n of_o godliness_n and_o much_o circumspection_n in_o the_o man_n personal_a walk_n and_o conversation_n much_o diligence_n be_v call_v for_o in_o search_v to_o find_v out_o and_o to_o come_v by_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o a_o man_n may_v have_v matter_n and_o ground_n for_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n and_o yet_o through_o the_o neglect_n of_o suitable_a serious_a and_o narrow_a self-examination_n he_o may_v be_v at_o a_o great_a loss_n as_o to_o its_o joyful_a testimony_n for_o he_o even_o as_o one_o may_v be_v
guilty_a of_o many_o sin_n and_o yet_o be_v but_o very_o little_a or_o not_o at_o all_o challenge_v for_o they_o through_o the_o neglect_n of_o self-examination_n 4_o that_o it_o require_v much_o singleness_n in_o try_v of_o conscience_n testimony_n whether_o it_o be_v well_o ground_v or_o not_o for_o a_o man_n that_o have_v his_o peace_n and_o joy_n to_o build_v on_o this_o testimony_n must_v not_o take_v every_o show_n and_o appearance_n of_o such_o a_o testimony_n for_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o peace_n and_o joy_n but_o conscience_n will_v be_v put_v to_o speak_v distinct_o and_o on_o good_a ground_n for_o it_o that_o in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o thing_n there_o be_v some_o sincerity_n and_o this_o must_v be_v put_v to_o the_o proof_n and_o exact_o try_v by_o the_o word_n whether_o it_o be_v so_o or_o not_o as_o we_o see_v here_o the_o apostle_n do_v he_o try_v his_o way_n and_o conversation_n and_o find_v it_o to_o have_v be_v 〈◊〉_d simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n etc._n etc._n from_o which_o premise_n to_o speak_v so_o he_o draw_v the_o refresh_a conclusion_n of_o his_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v now_o if_o we_o look_v to_o all_o these_o or_o to_o any_o one_o of_o they_o whether_o to_o the_o rarity_n of_o it_o among_o most_o man_n yea_o even_o among_o believer_n in_o some_o respect_n or_o to_o the_o exactness_n and_o tenderness_n of_o walk_n that_o be_v requisite_a to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o or_o to_o the_o great_a difficulty_n that_o a_o man_n will_v find_v in_o come_v at_o a_o through_o search_n of_o his_o way_n or_o to_o the_o diligence_n and_o single●_n that_o be_v call_v for_o in_o the_o trial_n of_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n we_o will_v find_v it_o to_o be_v a_o most_o clear_a and_o certain_a truth_n that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o ordinary_a nor_o easy_a business_n but_o very_o difficult_a to_o obtain_v the_o well_o ground_a good_a and_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n as_o to_o our_o more_o general_a and_o particular_a conversation_n if_o it_o be_v so_o which_o be_v the_o ●se_n of_o the_o doctrine_n be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n from_o whence_o the_o peace_n that_o many_o pretend_v to_o comes_z be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n that_o the_o most_o part_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n can_v so_o easy_o affirm_v the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n to_o be_v for_o they_o when_o there_o be_v neither_o exactness_n of_o life_n not_o tenderness_n of_o walk_n nor_o diligence_n in_o self-searching_a nor_o holy_a jealousy_n nor_o impartial_a and_o single_a try_v whether_o it_o be_v well_o ground_v or_o not_o and_o yet_o they_o will_v at_o the_o very_a first_o confident_o pretend_v to_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n if_o many_o of_o you_o be_v put_v to_o it_o can_v you_o give_v such_o evidence_n or_o ground_n for_o its_o testimony_n as_o paul_n do_v here_o if_o not_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o you_o be_v so_o ready_a confident_o to_o lay_v claim_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o ala●e_v there_o be_v nothing_o more_o ordinary_a in_o the_o generality_n of_o these_o that_o be_v most_o carnal_a and_o secure_a then_o bold_o to_o assert_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o honest_a heart_n be_v not_o this_o very_a strange_a wonderful_a and_o even_o 〈◊〉_d that_o under_o the_o clear_a sunshine_n of_o gospel_n light_n satan_n shall_v get_v so_o great_a advantage_n as_o thus_o 〈◊〉_d harden_v the_o heart_n and_o blind_a the_o conscience_n of_o so_o many_o poor_a wretched_a creature_n and_o at_o this_o rate_n to_o de●ude_v and_o 〈◊〉_d they_o as_o to_o prevail_v with_o they_o confident_o to_o assert_v and_o maintain_v that_o which_o they_o call_v their_o honesty_n which_o yet_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o rotten-hearted_a 〈◊〉_d and_o to_o 〈◊〉_d their_o peace_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o soul-murthe●ng_a and_o damn_v 〈◊〉_d for_o further_o clear_v of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o enlarge_n of_o its_o ●se_n and_o for_o help_v you_o to_o judge_v aright_o of_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n in_o your_o search_n after_o it_o we_o shall_v propose_v some_o question_n from_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o a_o well_o ground_v and_o refresh_a testimony_n of_o a_o man_n 〈◊〉_d for_o he_o which_o must_v all_o be_v answer_v in_o some_o measure_n affirmative_o and_o these_o answer_n solid_o and_o well_o prove_v and_o make_v ou●_n before_o you_o can_v quiet_o and_o confident_o rest_v on_o conscience_n testimony_n as_o to_o any_o part_n or_o piece_n of_o your_o way_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o reference_n to_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o sabbath_n to_o confer_v on_o a_o spiritual_a subject_n to_o prayer_n to_o praise_v to_o read_v to_o hear_v to_o eat_v to_o drink_v to_o buy_v to_o sell_v to_o building_n to_o plant_v etc._n etc._n but_o we_o shall_v here_o restrict_n the_o inquiry_n most_o at_o least_o to_o religious_a thing_n or_o action_n that_o be_v religious_a in_o their_o own_o nature_n first_o then_o conscience_n must_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o whether_o that_o which_o you_o have_v do_v be_v on_o the_o matter_n approven_v of_o god_n or_o not_o it_o be_v certain_o true_a you_o will_v say_v that_o prayer_n in_o itself_o be_v approven_v and_o so_o it_o be_v but_o be_v such_o and_o such_o a_o expression_n that_o you_o utter_v and_o such_o a_o word_n that_o you_o speak_v and_o the_o argument_n that_o you_o make_v use_v of_o in_o prayer_n right_a before_o god_n if_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o right_a conscience_n can_v speak_v for_o you_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v as_o warry_a and_o circumspect_a as_o may_v be_v in_o cheat_v circumven_o ●ing_v and_o deceive_v of_o his_o neighbour_n its_o impossible_a for_o conscience_n to_o give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n anent_o it_o or_o any_o other_o such_o action_n because_o it_o be_v on_o the_o matter_n sinful_a you_o must_v once_o then_o be_v sure_a and_o clear_a in_o this_o that_o what_o you_o speak_v or_o do_v in_o prayer_n or_o any_o other_o thing_n be_v as_o to_o its_o matter_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n 2_o conscience_n must_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o not_o only_o whether_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a in_o itself_o but_o also_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n lawful_a to_o you_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o that_o to_o which_o you_o be_v particular_o call_v for_o many_o thing_n be_v lawful_a which_o be_v not_o expedient_a and_o many_o thing_n may_v be_v expedient_a at_o one_o time_n which_o will_v not_o be_v expedient_a at_o another_o take_v it_o in_o the_o instance_n of_o prayer_n wherein_o conscience_n will_v not_o approve_v we_o though_o we_o be_v right_a in_o it_o on_o the_o matter_n if_o it_o be_v not_o right_o time_v or_o if_o we_o be_v not_o then_o call_v to_o it_o this_o be_v to_o be_v take_v heed_n to_o especial_o in_o thing_n that_o be_v on_o the_o matter_n indifferent_a and_o in_o the_o time_v of_o such_o command_v duty_n to_o which_o god_n have_v not_o set_v and_o fix_v a_o particular_a precise_a time_n but_o leave_v they_o to_o christian_a prudence_n to_o be_v go_v about_o by_o person_n at_o these_o time_n which_o be_v most_o seasonable_a and_o as_o they_o be_v call_v to_o they_o 3_o when_o you_o be_v thus_o clear_a as_o to_o the_o matter_n season_n and_o time_n and_o as_o to_o god_n call_v you_o to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n whether_o do_v you_o acknowledge_v god_n in_o your_o undertake_n of_o the_o duty_n be_v he_o look_v to_o for_o direction_n and_o guide_v in_o it_o and_o for_o his_o blessing_n on_o it_o and_o depend_v on_o for_o throwbearing_a according_a to_o that_o notable_a word_n prov._n 3._o 16._o in_o all_o thy_o way_n acknowledge_v he_o and_o he_o shall_v direct_v thy_o path_n in_o this_o also_o conscience_n must_v have_v satisfaction_n 4_o what_o motive_n do_v set_v you_o on_o to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n and_o from_o what_o principle_n do_v you_o do_v it_o for_o a_o duty_n or_o action_n may_v be_v right_a on_o the_o matter_n and_o you_o may_v also_o be_v call_v to_o it_o and_o yet_o if_o you_o be_v not_o swey_v to_o it_o from_o a_o right_a motive_n and_o principle_n it_o will_v mar_v your_o peace_n and_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o conscience_n testify_v for_o you_o that_o be_v though_o you_o shall_v do_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v right_a if_o you_o be_v not_o swey_v to_o it_o out_o of_o conscience_n from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n from_o love_n to_o he_o and_o from_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n it_o be_v faulty_a in_o so_o far_o and_o you_o can_v in_o so_o far_o have_v peace_n nor_o the_o approve_v testimony_n of_o your_o conscience_n therein_o but_o if_o a_o man_n endure_v grief_n and_o suffer_v wrongful_o for_o conscience_n towards_o god_n it_o be_v thank_v worthy_a ●aith_o the_o
bee●_n hear_v a_o sermon_n rest_a on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d performance_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o never_o discern_v what_o it_o be_v to_o perform_v these_o duty_n spiritual_o they_o fancy_v that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o break_v the_o first_o 〈◊〉_d if_o they_o have_v not_o downright_o worship_v any_o other_o god_n but_o the_o true_a god_n and_o know_v no_o spiritual_a 〈◊〉_d that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o murder_n if_o they_o shed_v no_o man●_n blood_n and_o know_v not_o that_o rash_a anger_n be_v 〈◊〉_d breach_n of_o that_o command_n and_o murder_n before_o god_n and_o so_o in_o other_o command_n 4_o when_o providence_n seem_v to_o countenance_v some_o particular_a in_o man_n hand_n and_o it_o go_v with_o they_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v in_o that_o case_n they_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o so_o speak_v peace_n to_o themselves_o as_o we_o see_v in_o micah_n when_o he_o have_v make_v his_o teraphim_n ephod_n and_o mol●en_o image_n and_o meet_v with_o a_o vagrant_a levit_fw-la come_v along_o who_o 〈◊〉_d to_o stay_v with_o he_o now_o say_v he_o i_o know_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v do_v i_o good_a s●ing_v i_o have_v a_o levit_fw-la to_o be_v my_o priest_n he_o look_v on_o providence_n furnish_v he_o with_o a_o priest_n as_o god_n approve_v of_o his_o make_v these_o image_n we_o will_v also_o find_v in_o rachel_n and_o leah_n two_o instance_n of_o this_o gen._n 30._o rachel_n in_o her_o barrenness_n give_v bilhah_n her_o maid_n to_o jacob_n and_o when_o she_o have_v bring_v forth_o a_o son_n she_o say_v god_n have_v judge●_n i_o and_o beard_n my_o voice_n but_o leah_n when_o she_o have_v give_v her_o maid_n to_o he_o be_v more_o express_a and_o clear_a while_o she_o say_v after_o zilpahs_n bring_v forth_o a_o son_n god_n have_v give_v i_o my_o hire_n because_o i_o have_v give_v my_o maid_n to_o my_o husband_n it_o be_v very_o rare_a for_o people_n when_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v countenance_v in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a that_o they_o have_v a_o great_a mind_n for_o so_o to_o reflect_v on_o their_o way_n as_o not_o sad_o to_o mistake_v there_o may_v be_v something_o of_o this_o even_o in_o believer_n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o have_v unmortified_a corruption_n in_o they_o all_o which_o say_v that_o we_o have_v great_a need_n and_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o concern_v to_o study_v to_o be_v impartial_a and_o single_a in_o ground_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o we_o mistake_v it_o not_o for_o providence_n coun●_n we_o in_o a_o particular_a will_v not_o if_o there_o be_v no_o more_o prove_v we_o to_o be_v right_a in_o it_o god_n not_o have_v give_v we_o that_o as_o our_o rule_n to_o walk_v by_o but_o the_o law_n and_o testimony_n by_o which_o the_o conscience_n be_v well_o inform_v and_o give_v its_o testimony_n according_o that_o be_v the_o alone_a testimony_n which_o can_v yield_v solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n for_o the_o second_o thing_n viz._n some_o false_a ground_n even_o beside_o these_o that_o man_n use_v to_o rest_v upon_o we_o shall_v name_v these_o four_o that_o be_v very_o unsound_a and_o unsicker_n and_o they_o be_v employ_v in_o the_o text._n the_o 1._o be_v employ_v in_o godly_a sincerity_n for_o clear_v of_o which_o you_o will_v take_v notice_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o moral_a sincerity_n in_o man_n practice_n that_o be_v not_o godly_a sincerity_n which_o be_v opposite_a to_o more_o gross_a counterfeit_n and_o dissemble_v this_o we_o find_v to_o have_v be_v in_o abimelech_n gen._n 20._o who_o say_v to_o god_n in_o the_o integrity_n of_o my_o heart_n have_v i_o do_v this_o the_o man_n say_v not_o one_o thing_n when_o he_o intend_v another_o this_o moral_a sincerity_n will_v not_o prove_v a_o solid_a ground_n of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n therefore_o we_o see_v that_o god_n plague_v a●imelech_n notwithstanding_o his_o moral_a honesty_n and_o sincerity_n it_o be_v true_a it_o may_v extenuat_fw-la and_o in_o some_o respect_n excuse_v a_o man_n fault_n as_o it_o do_v paul_n persecution_n who_o do_v it_o ignorant_o and_o out_o of_o unbelief_n and_o the_o jew_n their_o zeal_n which_o be_v not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n but_o as_o the_o thing_n itself_o be_v not_o warrantable_a so_o no_o such_o thing_n can_v be_v a_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n therefore_o the_o jew_n zeal_n do_v not_o warrant_v they_o in_o that_o they_o do_v nor_o paul_n persecution_n to_o be_v no_o sin_n as_o neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o nor_o both_o of_o they_o together_o warrant_v these_o speak_v of_o 1_o john_n 16._o who_o in_o kill_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n the_o matter_n must_v be_v right_a otherways_o there_o can_v never_o be_v ground_n for_o a_o good_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n there_o be_v somewhat_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o sincerity_n in_o many_o merchant_n and_o tradesman_n which_o make_v they_o if_o they_o be_v any_o way_n moral_o honest_a in_o their_o deal_n to_o think_v that_o they_o have_v religion_n enough_o and_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n but_o alace_o this_o will_v not_o do_v the_o business_n nor_o obtain_v such_o a_o testimony_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a for_o nought_o that_o paul_n put_v in_o this_o word_n for_o a_o ground_n of_o his_o testimony_n godly_a sincerity_n the_o second_o false_a ground_n be_v employ_v in_o these_o word_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n wherein_o you_o may_v take_v notice_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o fleshly_a wisdom_n providence_n or_o policy_n whereby_o many_o man_n square_v their_o action_n and_o way_n so_o as_o the_o mean_v they_o pitch_v on_o may_v re●ch_v their_o end_n and_o they_o may_v carry_v the_o matter_n so_o smooth_o and_o handsome_o as_o not_o open_o to_o offend_v though_o they_o make_v but_o little_a conscience_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o mean_n but_o it_o be_v not_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v but_o worldly_a wisdom_n which_o will_v come_v to_o nought_o 2_o you_o may_v notice_n here_o that_o though_o this_o may_v keep_v a_o man_n sometime_o from_o outward_a trouble_n and_o in_o a_o sort_n of_o quietness_n of_o mind_n and_o may_v yield_v he_o some_o ground_n of_o expectation_n to_o gain_v his_o point_n yet_o it_o will_v not_o give_v he_o solid_a peace_n nor_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n ●ndeed_o where_o a_o tender_a well_o inform_v conscience_n rule_n and_o bear_v sway_v natural_a wisdom_n be_v a_o serviceable_a and_o useful_a hand_n maid_n but_o when_o a_o man_n design_n a_o good_a end_n to_o be_v compass_v by_o fleshly_a wisdom_n without_o consult_v conscience_n in_o it_o though_o he_o shall_v succeed_v it_o will_v never_o give_v he_o peace_n therefore_o when_o paul_n come_v to_o corinth_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n he_o declare_v that_o he_o will_v not_o preach_v nor_o disput_n to_o make_v a_o show_n of_o his_o learning_n or_o scholarcraft_n nor_o to_o draw_v people_n respect_n and_o applause_n to_o himself_o as_o the_o false_a teacher_n do_v but_o with_o holy_a simplicity_n he_o plain_o instruct_v they_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o reprove_v impartial_o their_o fault_n and_o so_o commit_v the_o success_n to_o god_n thus_o a_o minister_n may_v sinful_o follow_v this_o rule_n or_o guide_v of_o fleshly_a wisdom_n to_o come_v by_o a_o good_a end_n to_o wit_n the_o keep_n of_o people_n from_o cast_v at_o his_o ministry_n these_o false_a teacher_n that_o be_v in_o corinth_n who_o do_v not_o it_o may_v be_v preach_v gross_a error_n and_o may_v possible_o think_v they_o have_v some_o good_a end_n yet_o in_o their_o preach_n through_o much_o fleshly_a wisdom_n they_o ●ought_v themselves_o and_o make_v it_o their_o great_a work_n to_o gain_v the_o people_n respect_n and_o applause_n by_o connive_v at_o their_o ●aults_n rather_o than_o to_o profit_v they_o and_o to_o gain_v their_o soul_n woe_n wo_n to_o such_o minister_n who_o wink_v at_o the_o sin_n of_o their_o hearer_n that_o they_o may_v infinua●_n themselves_o on_o they_o and_o court_v their_o favour_n but_o close_o to_o our_o point_n we_o say_v that_o though_o man_n shall_v have_v never_o so_o good_a a_o end_n fleshly_a wisdom_n and_o carnal_a policy_n will_v never_o minister_v ground_n of_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n unto_o they_o a_o th●rd_n false_a ground_n be_v employ_v in_o these_o word_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n viz_o as_o the_o principle_n of_o his_o action_n and_o walk_v which_o insi●uats_v first_o that_o there_o be_v some_o good_a thing_n which_o man_n may_v do_v not_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n but_o it_o may_v be_v from_o a_o mere_o moral_a principle_n of_o
mistake_v and_o reproach_v many_o time_n man_n care_v but_o little_a for_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o when_o all_o the_o world_n as_o it_o be_v come_v in_o a_o man_n top_n the_o confidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o excellent_a and_o none-such_a friend_n and_o companion_n it_o have_v great_a weight_n with_o paul_n here_o and_o be_v a_o sufficient_a counter-poise_n to_o all_o the_o reproach_n and_o calumny_n they_o can_v load_v he_o with_o though_o he_o be_v look_v on_o even_o as_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o off-scouring_n of_o all_o thing_n 4_o observe_v that_o when_o man_n meet_v with_o many_o reproach_n and_o walk_v in_o a_o way_n that_o be_v attend_v with_o a_o multitude_n of_o snare_n they_o need_v more_o than_o a_o guess_v or_o a_o conjectural_a un_fw-fr certainty_n as_o to_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n anent_o their_o be_v right_a even_o a-well-grounded_n certainty_n and_o persuasion_n paul_n do_v not_o say_v here_o we_o suppose_v or_o hope_v as_o many_o of_o you_o understand_v hope_n but_o we_o trust_v or_o be_v firm_o persuade_v man_n will_v study_v always_o to_o be_v clear_a in_o what_o they_o do_v but_o more_o especial_o when_o their_o way_n may_v be_v offend_v at_o and_o they_o reproach_v on_o account_n thereof_o and_o most_o especial_o as_o to_o that_o part_n of_o their_o way_n that_o be_v like_a to_o be_v most_o offend_v at_o more_o particular_o from_o these_o word_n consider_v as_o a_o reason_n of_o the_o foregoing_a exhortation_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o observe_v 1._o that_o a_o man_n who_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o be_v most_o clear_a in_o it_o do_v ordinary_o lie_v most_o weight_n on_o prayer_n and_o be_v most_o in_o love_n with_o that_o sweet_a exercise_n so_o that_o he_o will_v not_o only_o pray_v for_o himself_o but_o will_v also_o desire_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o its_o never_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o man_n that_o make_v he_o slight_a prayer_n himself_o or_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o for_o he_o 2_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n will_v desire_v and_o think_v himself_o concern_v to_o endeavour_v not_o to_o be_v mistake_v by_o other_o he_o will_v not_o boast_v of_o his_o good_a conscience_n not_o care_v what_o other_o think_v or_o say_v of_o he_o but_o will_v seek_v to_o remove_v any_o offence_n that_o may_v be_v take_v at_o his_o way_n or_o that_o may_v give_v any_o the_o least_o ground_n to_o make_v his_o integrity_n to_o be_v call_v in_o question_n as_o paul_n do_v here_o and_o 2_o cor._n 12._o where_o he_o say_v v_o 11._o i_o be_o become_v a_o fool_n in_o glory_v but_o add_v v_o 19_o but_o we_o do_v all_o thing_n and_o so_o this_o among_o the_o rest_n dear_o belove_v for_o your_o edify_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o a_o man_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n will_v not_o only_o study_v to_o be_v tender_a in_o his_o walk_n so_o as_o himself_o may_v have_v peace_n within_o but_o will_v also_o have_v regard_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o that_o they_o may_v not_o stumble_v and_o sin_n nor_o the_o way_n of_o god_n suffer_v when_o he_o may_v prevent_v it_o and_o it_o be_v a_o sure_a evidence_n of_o a_o ●ntender_a conscience_n when_o man_n care_v not_o who_o stumble_v at_o their_o way_n or_o how_o other_o account_v and_o esteem_v of_o they_o 3_o observe_v which_o be_v of_o affinity_n with_o the_o former_a that_o a_o man_n that_o endeavour_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o be_v clear_a that_o it_o be_v so_o indeed_o will_v be_v very_o desirous_a to_o have_v a_o room_n in_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o of_o god_n people_n or_o such_o a_o man_n be_v one_o that_o will_v not_o lippen_n to_o &_o lay_v weight_n upon_o his_o own_o prayer_n only_o but_o will_v also_o high_o prize_n christian_n fellowship_n and_o desire_v to_o have_v the_o benefit_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o christian_n paul_n seldom_o miss_v this_o in_o his_o epistle_n so_o rom._n 15._o eph._n 6._o col._n 4._o and_o philip._n 1._o he_o be_v much_o in_o put_v and_o press_v they_o to_o pray_v and_o to_o pray_v and_o strive_v for_o he_o together_o in_o prayer_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o a_o man_n of_o a_o tender_a conscience_n have_v a_o kindly_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o infirmity_n and_o a_o great_a desire_n to_o be_v forward_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o at_o much_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n and_o will_v therefore_o ●ain_o have_v a_o lift_n from_o every_o one_o that_o can_v help_v he_o such_o a_o man_n have_v a_o native_a exercise_n in_o pursue_v not_o only_o after_o fellowship_n with_o god_n but_o also_o with_o his_o people_n whereof_o this_o be_v a_o main_a part_n and_o though_o these_o may_v be_v look_v at_o but_o as_o little_a thing_n yet_o if_o we_o compare_v ourselves_o with_o the_o rule_n and_o with_o the_o practice_n of_o tender_a christian_n we_o will_v find_v considerable_a defect_n as_o to_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o they_o there_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o disdain_n or_o shame_n in_o many_o to_o seek_v the_o help_n of_o other_o prayer_n as_o if_o it_o suppose_v their_o be_v assault_v with_o some_o un_fw-we couth_a temptation_n or_o the_o prevail_a of_o some_o gross_a corruption_n or_o the_o lie_v on_o of_o some_o extraordinary_a and_o un_fw-fr hear_v of_o cross_n and_o affliction_n but_o the_o single_a design_n of_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o of_o get_v it_o entertain_v will_v put_v we_o not_o only_o to_o pray_v ourselves_o but_o also_o to_o desire_v the_o help_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o always_o this_o be_v a_o most_o certain_a truth_n that_o as_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o attain_v without_o prayer_n so_o it_o be_v not_o entertain_v but_o by_o prayer_n and_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o wonder_n how_o many_o can_v boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o yet_o neglect_v prayer_n themselves_o and_o undervalue_v the_o prayer_n of_o other_o for_o they_o but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v here_o 1._o what_o influence_n have_v a_o christian_n good_a conscience_n in_o lay_v on_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n on_o other_o for_o he_o 2._o what_o influence_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n to_o persuade_v other_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n for_o the_o person_n that_o have_v it_o more_o than_o for_o other_o our_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o these_o two_o will_v lead_v we_o in_o to_o the_o discovery_n of_o some_o notable_a advantage_n that_o attend_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o for_o the_o first_o we_o say_v in_o general_a that_o a_o good_a co●_n science_n have_v a_o notable_a influence_n on_o prayer_n and_o put_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o we_o or_o there_o be_v a_o strong_a connexion_n betwixt_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o advantage_n of_o prayer_n 1._o there_o be_v a_o connexion_n betwixt_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o liberty_n and_o boldness_n in_o prayer_n as_o it_o be_v clear_a 1_o john_n 3._o 21._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o we_o have_v confidence_n towards_o god_n a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n or_o a_o accuse_v and_o challenge_v conscience_n have_v a_o sort_n of_o ●ing_v at_o and_o at_o best_a much_o discouragement_n in_o prayer_n so_o that_o he_o can_v lift_v up_o his_o face_n without_o blush_v &_o shame_n but_o a_o good_a conscience_n on_o the_o contrary_a help_n to_o boldness_n in_o prayer_n and_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n in_o god_n as_o a_o father_n so_o that_o he_o can_v bold_o say_v our_o father_n 2_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v influence_n on_o or_o a_o connexion_n with_o ou●_n obtain_v a_o hear_n in_o prayer_n and_o on_o our_o be_v confident_a that_o we_o shall_v get_v a_o hear_n for_o we_o know_v say_v that_o poor_a man_n john_n 9_o v_o 31._o that_o god_n hear_v not_o sinner_n but_o if_o any_o man_n do_v his_o will_n ●e_n hear_v he_o and_o david_n say_v psal._n 66._o v_o 18._o if_o i_o regard_v iniquity_n in_o my_o heart_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o ●ear_v i_o and_o it_o be_v say_v 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v plea●ing_v in_o his_o sight_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o indeed_o a_o meritorious_a cause_n of_o the_o hear_n of_o prayer_n yet_o god_n have_v establish_v a_o connexion_n betwixt_o it_o and_o his_o hear_n of_o prayer_n and_o it_o have_v influence_n on_o our_o expect_v a_o hear_n and_o on_o our_o know_v that_o we_o shall_v get_v a_o hear_n 3_o and_o more_o particular_o as_o to_o the_o scripture_n now_o before_o we_o a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v confident_a to_o put_v other_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o which_o another_o can_v h
see_v the_o saint_n have_v come_v a_o good_a length_n in_o it_o and_o next_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n this_o be_v the_o end_n for_o attain_v whereof_o they_o take_v all_o the_o pain_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n even_o that_o they_o may_v win_v at_o this_o calmness_n and_o tranquillity_n at_o this_o peace_n comfort_n and_o joy_n of_o soul_n result_v from_o a_o good_a conscience_n even_o as_o man_n labour_v and_o take_v pain_n to_o win_v at_o some_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n that_o they_o may_v have_v a_o more_o convenient_a commodious_a and_o comfortable_a life_n in_o it_o and_o compare_v the_o word_n of_o this_o text_n with_o these_o of_o act_n 24._o 16._o it_o be_v very_o clear_a that_o whoever_o be_v serious_o and_o suitable_o exercise_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n they_o may_v through_o god_n blessing_n win_v at_o a_o clear_a calm_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n the_o one_o be_v paul_n study_n there_o the_o other_o be_v his_o attainment_n here_o if_o we_o compare_v the_o state_n of_o our_o conscience_n with_o the_o strai●_n of_o our_o former_a walk_n it_o will_v very_o easy_o be_v find_v that_o the_o want_n of_o this_o calm_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n flow_v from_o our_o not_o be_v suitable_o exercise_v to_o godliness_n and_o to_o the_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n this_o alace_o this_o be_v it_o that_o wound_v our_o peace_n and_o 〈◊〉_d our_o spiritual_a mi●th_n that_o make_v we_o ●ow_o down_o and_o walk_v heavy_o as_o it_o be_v without_o the_o sun_n if_o there_o be_v more_o serious_a and_o hard_a press_v after_o holiness_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n among_o we_o we_o will_v not_o ready_o be_v such_o stranger_n to_o the_o serene_a tranquillity_n comfort_n and_o refresh_v that_o flow_n from_o a_o good_a conscience_n 3_o observe_v that_o a_o believer_n who_o be_v tender_a in_o his_o walk_n may_v win_v to_o be_v very_o clear_a and_o thorough_o persuade_v that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v according_a to_o his_o measure_n say_v as_o paul_n do_v here_o we_o trust_v or_o be_v confident_a that_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n who_o be_v ●o_o very_o firm_o persuade_v that_o he_o dare_v rom._n 9_o 1._o whence_o we_o speak_v somewhat_o late_o take_v the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o be_v witness_n so_o a_o tender_a christian_a may_v win_v to_o be_v so_o very_o clear_a and_o full_o persuade_v that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n that_o he_o may_v bold_o 〈◊〉_d it_o and_o lippen_n to_o it_o as_o that_o which_o will_v abide_v the_o trial_n yea_o in_o some_o respect_n adventure_n and_o hazard_v his_o very_a soul_n on_o it_o that_o it_o be_v so_o of_o a_o truth_n but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v what_o be_v it_o that_o find_v this_o persuasion_n and_o make_v it_o firm_a and_o solid_a answer_v the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o text_n will_v give_v ground_n to_o speak_v to_o it_o more_o full_o but_o for_o the_o time_n and_o in_o the_o general_n we_o say_v that_o these_o three_o do_v ●ound_v it_o ere_o ever_o a_o man_n can_v be_v thus_o persuade_v that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n he_o must_v needs_o take_v a_o serious_a look_n and_o view_v of_o his_o bygone_a way_n of_o his_o present_a frame_n and_o of_o his_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n for_o the_o future_a that_o he_o may_v see_v that_o all_o these_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n right_o 1._o then_o for_o his_o bypass_a way_n it_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v single_o endeavour_v to_o have_v it_o tender_a and_o conform_v to_o the_o rule_n even_o that_o he_o have_v be_v exercise_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o that_o he_o have_v reflect_v and_o search_v and_o find_v it_o in_o some_o measure_n to_o be_v so_o the_o one_o of_o these_o lay_v the_o ground_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o other_o draw_v forth_o the_o comfortable_a evidence_n of_o it_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o person_n present_a frame_n there_o must_v be_v spirituality_n singleness_n and_o some_o measure_n of_o tenderness_n otherways_o it_o will_v much_o obstruct_v this_o persuade_a testimony_n for_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o that_o a_o man_n have_v be_v tender_a if_o he_o be_v not_o in_o some_o measure_n so_o now_o paul_n say_v here_o we_o have_v not_o only_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 3_o there_o must_v be_v some_o deliberatness_n and_o determinatness_n of_o his_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n to_o walk_v with_o god_n for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v for_o if_o a_o man_n do_v not_o dedicat_fw-la and_o devot_n himself_o to_o the_o study_n of_o holiness_n for_o the_o future_a though_o he_o be_v suppose_v to_o have_v have_v never_o so_o much_o of_o it_o in_o his_o bygone_a life_n this_o firm_a and_o comfortable_a persuasion_n will_v be_v much_o mar_v and_o obstruct_v so_o than_o these_o three_o must_v here_o go_v together_o viz._n holiness_n in_o a_o man_n bypass_a life_n holiness_n in_o his_o present_a frame_n and_o holiness_n in_o his_o purpose_n for_o the_o future_a we_o will_v find_v they_o all_o conjoin_v in_o the_o experience_n of_o this_o same_o apostle_n philp._n 3._o where_o when_o he_o have_v speak_v of_o his_o bygone_a carriage_n how_o he_o have_v count_v these_o thing_n to_o be_v loss_n for_o christ_n which_o he_o sometime_o account_v to_o be_v gain_n and_o how_o he_o have_v suffer_v the_o loss_n of_o all_o thing_n for_o christ_n yet_o he_o think_v not_o this_o enough_o but_o add_v as_o to_o his_o present_a frame_n yea_o doubtless_o i_o count_v all_o thing_n to_o be_v but_o loss_n for_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n jesus_n my_o lord_n and_o v_o 12._o not_o as_o if_o i_o have_v already_o attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfyte_n and_o v_o 13_o one_o thing_n i_o do_v forget_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o etc._n etc._n he_o be_v as_o serious_a and_o eager_a as_o if_o he_o have_v just_a now_o begin_v and_o tell_v we_o that_o for_o the_o future_a he_o be_v resolve_v to_o press_v hard_o towards_o the_o mark_n till_o he_o obtain_v the_o prize_n then_o he_o subjoin_v let_v we_o then_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfyte_n be_v thus_o mind_v this_o be_v not_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n in_o holiness_n that_o he_o speak_v of_o or_o a_o perfection_n of_o degree_n but_o a_o perfection_n of_o part_n or_o a_o perfection_n of_o sincerity_n though_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n than_o many_o christian_n win_v at_o as_o to_o his_o bypass_a life_n as_o to_o his_o present_a frame_n and_o as_o to_o his_o resolution_n for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v religion_n must_v not_o be_v halve_v but_o whosoever_o will_v have_v a_o clear_a and_o calm_a conscience_n must_v study_v to_o be_v clear_a on_o all_o hand_n no_o iniquity_n must_v be_v regard_v in_o his_o heart_n no_o duty_n resolve_o ●alked_v but_o holiness_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n must_v sincere_o and_o serious_o in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n be_v follow_v after_o 4_o observe_v that_o where_o there_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o any_o one_o thing_n there_o will_v be_v a_o single_a and_o serious_a endeavour_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n or_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v of_o universal_a extent_n as_o to_o every_o thing_n we_o trust_v say_v the_o apostle_n we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o if_o a_o man_n be_v conscientious_a in_o any_o one_o thing_n from_o the_o principle_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n that_o same_o principle_n will_v set_v he_o on_o to_o endeavour_v to_o be_v conscientious_a in_o all_o thing_n for_o its_o the_o same_o divine_a authority_n that_o enjoin_v obedience_n to_o all_o god_n command_n and_o if_o conscience_n put_v a_o man_n to_o lay_v weight_n on_o any_o one_o thing_n as_o command_v it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o lay_v weight_n on_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v command_v a_o quatenus_fw-la ad_fw-la omne_fw-la etc._n etc._n therefore_o david_n say_v psal._n 18._o 22._o all_o his_o judgement_n be_v before_o i_o and_o i_o put_v not_o away_o his_o statute_n from_o i_o and_o psal._n 119._o 6._o then_o shall_v i_o not_o be_v ashamed_a when_o i_o have_v a_o respect_n unto_o all_o thy_o commandment_n and_o of_o zacharias_n and_o elizabeth_n it_o be_v say_v luke_n 1._o 6._o that_o they_o walk_v in_o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n blameless_a this_o doctrine_n have_v two_o branch_n the_o first_o be_v negative_a that_o there_o can_v be_v a_o good_a conscience_n but_o where_o its_o universal_a the_o second_o be_v affirmative_a that_o where_o a_o conscience_n be_v universal_a it_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o its_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o we_o shall_v not_o now_o in●ist_v
honest_o can_v never_o be_v separate_a from_o a_o good_a conscience_n neither_o will_v we_o have_v you_o think_v when_o a_o christian_a miscarry_v in_o his_o conversation_n that_o he_o can_v never_o recover_v a_o good_a conscience_n there_o be_v two_o way_n whereby_o a_o believer_n may_v come_v to_o quietness_n in_o his_o conicience_n 1._o by_o the_o exercise_n of_o sanctification_n which_o prevent_v a_o challenge_n and_o that_o be_v it_o which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o here_o and_o act_n 24._o 16._o and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o we_o mean_v in_o the_o doctrine_n 2._o when_o he_o fail_v and_o miscarry_v there_o be_v a_o recover_n of_o quietness_n and_o of_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n sprinkle_v the_o conscience_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n which_o flow_v not_o so_o much_o indeed_o from_o the_o man_n holiness_n and_o tenderness_n for_o prevent_v of_o a_o challenge_n as_o from_o justification_n and_o the_o right_a that_o the_o soul_n get_v to_o pardon_v of_o sin_n thereby_o wherein_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n remove_v the_o challenge_n and_o quiet_v the_o conscience_n and_o a_o soul_n may_v have_v the_o one_o of_o these_o when_o to_o its_o sense_n it_o want_v the_o other_o or_o have_v indeed_o but_o little_a of_o it_o it_o may_v have_v some_o comfortable_a clearness_n of_o interest_n or_o at_o least_o the_o faith_n of_o it_o when_o it_o have_v in_o some_o respect_n a_o ill_a conscience_n as_o we_o may_v see_v david_n have_v psal._n 51._o so_o upon_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o conceive_v it_o be_v not_o impossible_a for_o a_o believer_n to_o have_v some_o tenderness_n and_o a_o testimony_n thereof_o from_o his_o conscience_n when_o he_o be_v much_o in_o the_o dark_a as_o to_o his_o interest_n in_o god_n 2_o from_o paul_n knit_v of_o these_o two_o together_o viz._n a_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o qualification_n of_o it_o a_o honest_a walk_n observe_v that_o such_o as_o will_v confident_o assert_v and_o assume_v to_o themselves_o this_o testimony_n that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n will_v do_v it_o on_o well_o qualify_v ground_n and_o evidence_n therefore_o the_o apostle_n here_o do_v not_o content_v himself_o simple_o to_o assert_v it_o and_o general_o wherever_o he_o assert_v this_o he_o hold_v out_o something_o of_o his_o practice_n show_v thereby_o that_o he_o be_v not_o mistake_v nor_o presumptuous_a in_o his_o assert_v of_o it_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o extremity_n that_o man_n be_v dispose_v to_o run_v into_o in_o this_o matter_n some_o too_o soon_o and_o too_o easy_o assume_v to_o themselves_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n other_o again_o in_o a_o manner_n shu●ing_v and_o shift_v all_o thing_n that_o may_v give_v they_o clearness_n as_o if_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v win_v at_o we_o will_v find_v that_o there_o be_v good_a reason_n to_o qualify_v it_o thus_o so_o as_o the_o golden_a mediocrity_n or_o raid_v betwixt_o these-extreams_a may_v be_v due_o observe_v more_o particular_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v here_o what_o be_v the_o qualification_n or_o evidence_n whereby_o a_o person_n may_v clear_v and_o prove_v that_o upon_o good_a and_o solid_a ground_n he_o assum_v to_o himself_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v not_o scrupulous_o reject_v it_o the_o apostle_n hold_v it_o out_o in_o these_o word_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o and_o you_o may_v take_v it_o in_o this_o observation_n that_o a_o firm_a and_o settle_a serious_a purpose_n of_o universal_a holiness_n and_o honesty_n in_o our_o life_n and_o walk_v have_v great_a influence_n on_o the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o our_o conscience_n and_o be_v a_o good_a evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o withal_o a_o choice_a companion_n that_o wait_v continual_o on_o it_o i_o put_v these_o three_o together_o as_o include_v in_o the_o word_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o the_o latter_a word_n respect_v the_o former_a the_o design_n be_v as_o broad_a as_o the_o effect_n and_o the_o former_a prove_v the_o latter_a the_o study_n of_o universal_a holiness_n a_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o 1_o than_o we_o say_v that_o this_o universal_a honest_a design_n be_v the_o companion_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o wait_v always_o on_o it_o or_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o go_v together_o he_o that_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v honest_a in_o his_o walk_n and_o he_o that_o be_v honest_a in_o his_o walk_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o we_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n for_o if_o they_o only_o have_v this_o good_a conscience_n who_o be_v honest_a in_o their_o walk_n then_o where_o this_o honest_a walk_n be_v there_o must_v be_v a_o good_a conscience_n 3_o we_o say_v that_o it_o have_v much_o influence_n on_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o be_v in_o some_o sort_n a_o procurer_n of_o it_o in_o which_o sense_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o efect_n of_o a_o honest_a walk_n so_o that_o the_o more_o honest_a a_o man_n be_v in_o his_o walk_n the_o more_o quietness_n will_v he_o have_v in_o his_o conscience_n because_o the_o doctrine_n be_v very_o broad_a and_o afford_v much_o profitable_a use_n i_o shall_v first_o clear_v it_o then_o 2_o confirm_v it_o and_o 3_o make_v some_o use_n of_o it_o and_o remove_v some_o practical_a doubt_n that_o may_v arise_v from_o it_o 1._o then_o for_o clear_v the_o doctrine_n by_o part_n in_o it_o we_o take_v in_o these_o threeingredient_n to_o make_v up_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o that_o a_o man_n walk_n be_v honest_a 2_o that_o it_o be_v a_o universal_a honesty_n in_o all_o thing_n 3_o that_o there_o be_v a_o willingness_n or_o hearty_a purpose_n towards_o universal_a honesty_n whereon_o the_o great_a stress_n of_o the_o quietness_n of_o a_o person_n conscience_n lie_v viz._n the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o purpose_n or_o a_o heart-willingness_n and_o we_o may_v consider_v all_o these_o either_o negative_o so_o that_o without_o this_o evidence_n there_o can_v be_v a_o good_a conscience_n or_o positive_o so_o that_o where_o this_o evidence_n be_v there_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n for_o the_o first_o what_o be_v a_o ho●est_a walk_n 1._o we_o conceive_v it_o be_v not_o that_o which_o most_o man_n count_v honesty_n viz._n for_o a_o man_n only_o to_o think_v or_o fan●y_v himself_o to_o be_v honest_a a_o man_n own_o apprehension_n be_v not_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o trial_n but_o that_o which_o will_v abide_v the_o trial_n before_o god_n 2ly_a honesty_n here_o look_v not_o to_o absolute_a perfection_n and_o such_o as_o have_v no_o defect_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o rule_v and_o measure_v by_o our_o will_n but_o by_o god_n will_v reveal_v in_o his_o word_n though_o it_o come_v not_o up_o the_o full_a length_n of_o that_o which_o his_o revealed_z will_n call_v for_o and_o we_o conceive_v that_o it_o do_v more_o particular_o consist_v in_o these_o four_o 1._o that_o on_o the_o matter_n it_o be_v in_o thing_n allow_v and_o approven_v of_o god_n for_o there_o neither_o be_v nor_o can_v be_v any_o honest_a live_n except_o our_o suppose_a duty_n and_o our_o practice_n be_v allow_v and_o command_v of_o god_n and_o here_o a_o good_a intention_n or_o a_o honest_a mind_n if_o the_o thing_n thwart_o the_o word_n of_o god_n will_v not_o prove_v honesty_n because_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n it_o be_v not_o right_a as_o paul_n show_v rom._n 10._o speak_v of_o the_o jew_n their_o zeal_n 2_o that_o there_o be_v a_o honest_a end_n else_o though_o the_o action_n be_v good_a on_o the_o matter_n if_o our_o end_n be_v sinister_a or_o selfie_v it_o will_v mar_v the_o honesty_n of_o the_o action_n thus_o christ_n say_v matth._n 26._o 10._o of_o that_o good_a woman_n she_o have_v wrought_v a_o good_a or_o a_o honest_a work_n on_o i_o which_o he_o clear_v to_o be_v so_o from_o her_o end_n in_o that_o she_o pour_v this_o ointment_n on_o my_o body_n she_o do_v it_o for_o my_o burial_n it_o be_v not_o out_o of_o vanity_n and_o ostentation_n but_o from_o a_o inward_a h●art-respect_n to_o i_o and_o at_o least_o in_o god_n design_n she_o have_v be_v fore-signifying_a my_o burial_n 3_o honesty_n take_v in_o rectitude_n or_o straightness_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o our_o go_v about_o the_o duty_n for_o if_o the_o manner_n be_v not_o right_a as_o well_o as_o the_o matter_n the_o action_n will_v not_o be_v honest_a the_o word_n honest_o as_o we_o show_v signify_v honourable_o pleasant_o desirable_o worthy_o as_o that_o word_n matth._n 26._o 10._o do_v now_o a_o thing_n can_v be_v commondable_a and_o worthy_a if_o it_o be_v not_o right_a for_o the_o manner_n it_o be_v but_o hypocritical_a therefore_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o
to_o such_o a_o thing_n 4._o we_o will_v distinguish_v betwixt_o a_o crooked_a willingness_n to_o holiness_n out_o of_o some_o by-respect_n and_o a_o outright_o and_o straight_o willingness_n when_o holiness_n be_v will_v and_o love_v on_o a_o honest_a account_n o●_n for_o a_o straight_a end_n the_o crooked_a willingness_n be_v a_o servile_a and_o mercenary_a desire_n of_o holiness_n to_o pour_v by_o it_o freedom_n from_o hell_n and_o come_v to_o heaven_n at_o best_a and_o often_o to_o have_v respect_n from_o man_n especial_o in_o a_o time_n when_o holiness_n be_v in_o any_o request_n and_o respect_n as_o the_o pharisee_n have_v in_o their_o give_v of_o alm_n and_o make_v long_a prayer_n and_o whereof_o the_o lord_n seem_v to_o mean_v when_o he_o say_v hos._n 10._o ephraim_n be_v a_o empty_a vine_n he_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n to_o himself_o all_o holiness_n that_o be_v design_v or_o pursue_v for_o this_o end_n for_o any_o predominant_o selfy-end_n be_v nothing_o before_o god_n but_o a_o unstraight_a or_o crooked_a willingness_n or_o you_o may_v look_v at_o a_o single_a willingness_n to_o holiness_n as_o that_o whieh_a be_v out_o of_o respect_n to_o holiness_n for_o itself_o and_o when_o we_o love_v holiness_n and_o a_o universality_n in_o it_o because_o god_n love_v it_o and_o because_o it_o be_v like_o he_o and_o beautiful_o conform_v to_o his_o image_n thus_o david_n sweet_o express_v himself_o psal._n 119._o 127._o i_o love_v thy_o commandment_n above_o gold_n yea_o fine_a gold_n when_o there_o be_v a_o worth_n amiableness_n and_o excellency_n see_v in_o the_o command_n and_o the_o thing_n command_v when_o they_o be_v prize_v and_o a_o dear_a respect_n be_v have_v to_o they_o all_o for_o themselves_o ●_o 5._o we_o will_v distinguish_v betwixt_o a_o sluggish_a willingness_n or_o desire_v after_o holiness_n and_o a_o effectual_a willingness_n there_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o willingness_n that_o suffer_v man_n to_o lie_v still_o with_o the_o sluggard_n such_o will_v fain_o have_v knowledge_n but_o they_o thou_fw-mi not_o take_v pain_n to_o read_v if_o it_o be_v but_o the_o catechism_n that_o they_o may_v come_v by_o it_o they_o will_v ●ain_o have_v lust_n mortify_v but_o they_o thou_fw-mi not_o fast_o and_o pray_v that_o such_o devil_n may_v be_v make_v to_o go_v out_o they_o will_v be_v at_o holiness_n but_o they_o thou_fw-mi not_o use_v the_o mean_n appoint_v by_o god_n to_o win_v at_o it_o there_o be_v such_o a_o desire_n speak_v of_o prov._n 13._o 4._o the_o soul_n of_o the_o sluggard_n desire_v and_o have_v not_o because_o his_o hand_n refuse_v to_o work_v he_o rest_v content_o in_o his_o desire_n and_o take_v no_o pain_n to_o prosecute_v it_o to_o the_o obtain_n of_o that_o which_o he_o desire_v even_o as_o many_o lazy_a body_n will_v fain_o be_v rich_a but_o thou_fw-mi not_o take_v pain_n and_o labour_n to_o come_v at_o riches_n even_o as_o it_o be_v story_v of_o the_o roman_a young_a gentleman_n who_o lay_v himself_o down_o on_o the_o grass_n and_o roll_v and_o tumble_v there_o a_o while_n and_o say_v utinam_fw-la ●oc_fw-la esset_fw-la laborare_fw-la o_o if_o this_o be_v to_o labour_n and_o work_v even_o so_o it_o may_v be_v in_o spiritu●l_a thing_n there_o may_v be_v a_o sluggish_a desire_n to_o be_v holy_a and_o yet_o great_a negligence_n as_o to_o any_o suitable_a pain_n to_o come_v by_o it_o but_o effectual_a willingness_n be_v that_o which_o yoke_v the_o man_n in_o good_a earnest_n to_o the_o use_n of_o all_o appoint_a mean_n whereby_o he_o may_v obtain_v his_o desire_a end_n as_o he_o desire_v to_o be_v holy_a so_o he_o press_v to_o be_v at_o it_o through_o all_o obstruction_n and_o difficulty_n and_o though_o he_o win_v not_o up_o to_o perfection_n in_o respect_n of_o degree_n yet_o he_o dispense_v not_o with_o himself_o in_o his_o short-coming_a nor_o in_o the_o allow_a neglect_n of_o any_o mean_a that_o may_v help_v he_o forward_o not_o as_o if_o i_o be_v already_o perfete_a say_v the_o apostle_n phil._n 13._o 14._o meaning_n as_o to_o the_o degree_n but_o one_o thing_n i_o do_v forget_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forth_o unto_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o vers_fw-la 16._o he_o say_v let_v as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v where_o he_o speak_v of_o a_o perfection_n attainable_a even_o here_o and_o imply_n that_o those_o who_o be_v not_o thus_o mind_v endeavour_v through_o grace_n to_o reach_v forward_o to_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n make_v it_o their_o one_o thing_n to_o attain_v to_o perfection_n in_o holiness_n can_v lay_v claim_n to_o this_o willingness_n which_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o perfection_n in_o the_o sense_n the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o now_o from_o all_o these_o distinction_n put_v together_o we_o may_v find_v a_o clear_a answer_n to_o what_o natural_a and_o carnal_a heart_n will_v readl_o object_v here_o and_o make_v discovery_n of_o the_o unwarrantableness_n nay_o of_o the_o rottenness_n of_o the_o ground_n whereon_o they_o find_v their_o peace_n for_o since_o this_o willingness_n have_v such_o influence_n on_o man_n solid_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a every_o willingness_n that_o will_v be_v a_o certain_a evidence_n of_o it_o nor_o a_o solid_a ground_n to_o build_v it_o upon_o sermon_n iii_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o though_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v the_o thing_n in_o all_o the_o world_n in_o reference_n to_o which_o man_n ought_v to_o carry_v most_o tender_o yet_o if_o we_o shall_v take_v a_o view_n of_o the_o way_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o people_n even_o live_v under_o and_o make_v profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n we_o will_v find_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o they_o deal_v more_o untender_o in_o some_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n account_v that_o to_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o be_v nothing_o so_o and_o so_o base_o prostitute_v and_o abuse_v this_o excellent_a thing_n other_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n look_v on_o a_o good_a conscience_n 〈◊〉_d but_o a_o airy_a notion_n and_o fancy_n never_o know_v nor_o study_v to_o know_v what_o the_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n of_o it_o be_v they_o make_v it_o useless_a and_o comfortless_a to_o themselves_o and_o so_o be_v utter_o deprive_v of_o that_o sweetlyserene_a tranquillity_n which_o be_v god_n gracious_a allowance_n on_o they_o that_o make_v it_o their_o business_n to_o have_v a_o tender_a and_o true_o good_a conscience_n the_o doctrine_n that_o we_o propose_v last_o be_v for_o direct_v we_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o just_a mid_n betwixt_o those_o two_o extreme_n and_o it_o be_v this_o that_o where_o there_o be_v a_o sincere_a willingness_n to_o be_v universal_o honest_a in_o the_o whole_a of_o our_o conversation_n it_o have_v great_a influence_n on_o the_o peace_n of_o our_o conscience_n be_v a_o notable_a evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o choice_a companion_n that_o wait_v continual_o on_o it_o paul_n here_o assert_v his_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n on_o this_o ground_n and_o withal_o explain_v and_o qualify_v the_o same_o by_o tell_v we_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n he_o have_v a_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o now_o because_o this_o doctrine_n be_v of_o great_a concernment_n to_o believer_n in_o christ_n as_o to_o their_o solid_a peace_n and_o comfort_n and_o deal_v with_o several_a sort_n of_o man_n some_o of_o who_o as_o antinomian_o reject_v any_o such_o evidence_n and_o dispute_v against_o the_o possibility_n of_o universal_a sincerity_n so_o that_o according_a to_o they_o there_o can_v be_v no_o solid_a conclusion_n draw_v hence_o for_o the_o comfort_n of_o believer_n other_o such_o as_o hypocrite_n snatch_v at_o this_o consolation_n when_o they_o have_v no_o honesty_n in_o their_o walk_n and_o a_o three_o sort_n better_a dispose_v who_o from_o see_v defect_n and_o fail_n in_o their_o walk_n refuse_v all_o the_o consolation_n that_o flow_v from_o this_o ground_n say_v on_o the_o matter_n to_o the_o weaken_n of_o their_o own_o hand_n and_o to_o the_o faint_a and_o discourage_v of_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o they_o have_v nothing_o of_o this_o honesty_n nothing_o of_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_a by_o we_o insist_v the_o more_o on_o the_o clear_n of_o these_o three_o in_o the_o doctrine_n 1._o what_o be_v mean_v by_o a_o honest_a walk_n 2._o what_o be_v mean_v by_o universal_a sincerity_n or_o honesty_n in_o our_o walk_n 3._o what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o which_o be_v the_o base_a on_o which_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n do_v
that_o be_v behind_o in_o that_o respect_n and_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o according_a to_o his_o measure_n not_o as_o if_o i_o have_v attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfect_a one_o thing_n i_o do_v forget_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forth_o unto_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o 〈◊〉_d he_o be_v so_o take_v up_o with_o press_v desire_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v forward_o that_o any_o thing_n he_o have_v attain_v he_o be_v not_o much_o take_v and_o far_o less_o vain_o tickle_v with_o it_o as_o these_o proud_a pharisee_n be_v with_o their_o give_v of_o alm_n the_o attainment_n that_o many_o offer_n as_o a_o evidence_n of_o their_o honest_a willingness_n and_o their_o plead_n for_o it_o with_o their_o proud_a boast_n of_o it_o be_v a_o shrewd_a evidence_n of_o their_o real_a unwillingness_n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o sit_v down_o conten●dly_o with_o what_o they_o have_v attain_v and_o press_v not_o at_o 〈◊〉_d to_o be_v forward_o as_o it_o become_v those_o to_o do_v that_o be_v far_o behind_o the_o true_o will_v honest_a man_n see_v so_o great_a a_o deal_n of_o his_o way_n before_o he_o that_o he_o scarce_o endure_v to_o look_v back_o on_o what_o of_o it_o be_v past_a he_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v and_o ●ay_n i_o have_v so_o many_o thing_n to_o do_v for_o god_n that_o i_o someway_o forget_v all_o the_o good_a turn_n that_o i_o have_v do_v as_o to_o sit_v down_o with_o they_o or_o boast_v of_o they_o 6_o the_o serious_o willing_a man_n can_v never_o be_v full_o satisfy_v with_o any_o victory_n he_o have_v obtain_v over_o his_o corruption_n or_o out-gate_n from_o it_o nor_o dare_v he_o rest_v on_o it_o neither_o have_v he_o peace_n till_o he_o come_v to_o look_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o hope_n of_o outgate_n through_o he_o i_o thank_v god_n say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 7._o through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n and_o then_o follow_v the_o conclusion_n so_o then_o with_o my_o mind_n i_o myself_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o with_o the_o flesh_n the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o chap._n 8._o 1._o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n who_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n this_o character_n have_v three_o branch_n 1._o the_o man_n that_o be_v wrestle_v with_o and_o groan_v under_o the_o body_n of_o death_n love_v well_o and_o dear_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o outgate_n and_o now_o and_o then_o belong_v to_o have_v the_o pin_n of_o his_o tabernacle_n loose_v and_o to_o be_v fir_v from_o that_o evil_a neighbour_n and_o troublesome_a guest_n of_o indwelling_a corruption_n and_o it_o be_v unexpressible_o sweet_a and_o refresh_n to_o he_o to_o look_v to_o that_o desirable_a day_n when_o he_o and_o it_o shall_v final_o part_v company_n 2_o he_o have_v never_o the_o settle_a hope_n of_o a_o outgate_n but_o when_o he_o look_v to_o god_n through_o christ_n he_o look_v to_o god_n and_o think_v himself_o eternal_o oblige_v to_o he_o for_o his_o give_v christ_n to_o deliver_v he_o and_o he_o look_v to_o christ_n for_o strength_n to_o stand_v it_o out_o in_o the_o battle_n and_o for_o obtain_v a_o full_a and_o final_a out-gate_n in_o the_o close_a and_o at_o last_o and_o 3_o a_o man_n that_o have_v this_o willingness_n it_o high_o commend_v the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n to_o he_o it_o make_v christ_n very_o lovely_a to_o he_o and_o withal_o it_o make_v sin_n to_o be_v exceed_o sinful_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n he_o love_v christ_n well_o because_o he_o have_v the_o hope_n of_o a_o out-gate_n through_o he_o and_o he_o love_v grace_n well_o because_o the_o poor_a man_n who_o be_v wrestle_v and_o war_a with_o his_o corruption_n and_o often_o plunge_v in_o the_o puddle_n and_o mire_n by_o it_o have_v through_o grace_n the_o hope_n of_o a_o final_a out-gate_n from_o it_o and_o it_o make_v sin_n to_o become_v out_o of_o measure_n loathsome_a to_o he_o and_o the_o high_a christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o grace_n be_v exalt_v the_o more_o vile_a and_o abominable_a be_v sin_n in_o his_o ●ight_n o_o but_o it_o be_v safe_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o ride_v at_o anchor_n betwixt_o these_o two_o we_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o this_o sincere_o and_o honest_o willing_a man_n be_v one_o that_o have_v two_o part_n in_o he_o and_o as_o he_o have_v two_o part_n so_o he_o labour_v to_o give_v every_o part_n it_o be_v own_o due_a and_o unless_o this_o be_v do_v there_o be_v no_o keep_n of_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o the_o conscience_n if_o a_o man_n shall_v look_v on_o himself_o as_o whole_o renew_v it_o be_v rank_a presumption_n have_v still_o a_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n in_o he_o and_o if_o be_v a_o sound_a believer_n in_o christ_n he_o shall_v look_v on_o himself_o as_o whole_o unrenewed_a it_o be_v gross_a unbelief_n therefore_o he_o attribut_v to_o corruption_n its_o due_a and_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o acknowledge_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o any_o honest_a protest_v against_o ●in_a attribute_v it_o to_o grace_n and_o give_v god_n the_o praise_n of_o his_o grace_n after_o paul_n example_n who_o say_v rom._n 7._o i_o thank_v god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n so_o then_o with_o my_o mind_n i_o myself_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o with_o my_o flesh_n the_o law_n of_o sen_fw-mi he_o take_v with_o it_o that_o with_o his_o unrenewed_a p●t_n he_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o he_o be_v not_o come_v at_o perfection_n in_o holiness_n and_o yet_o assert_n that_o in_o his_o mind_n he_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o so_o that_o he_o serve_v not_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o of_o himself_o or_o in_o his_o own_o strength_n but_o as_o renew_v and_o assist_v by_o grace_n for_o 2_o cor._n 3._o 5._o he_o say_v not_o that_o we_o be_v sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o as_o of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n but_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o god_n he_o acknowledge_v that_o of_o himself_o as_o of_o himself_o he_o sin_v and_o can_v not_o so_o much_o as_o think_v a_o good_a thought_n but_o as_o renew_v and_o that_o not_o as_o of_o himself_o but_o a●_n of_o god_n he_o serve_v god_n his_o sufficiency_n be_v allenarl_o of_o he_o who_o enable_v he_o to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a and_o as_o it_o be_v 1_o cor._n 15._o not_o i_o but_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o i_o the_o same_o man_n that_o say_v he_o can_v so_o much_o as_o think_v what_o be_v good_a as_o of_o himself_o that_o he_o can_v do_v nothing_o yet_o say_v i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n strengthen_v i_o philp._n 4._o 10._o o_o strange_a this_o way_n of_o distinguish_v be_v both_o a_o notable_a evidence_n of_o a_o man_n that_o aim_v honesty_n at_o peace_n and_o be_v the_o way_n to_o peace_n of_o conscience_n and_o otherways_o if_o it_o be_v neglect_v whilst_o christian_n have_v corruption_n in_o they_o they_o can_v never_o have_v solid_a peace_n sermon_n i._n heb._n 9_o v_o 13._o 14._o for_o if_o the_o blood_n of_o bull_n and_o of_o goat_n and_o the_o ash_n of_o a_o heifer_n sprinkle_v the_o unclean_a sanctify_v to_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o flesh_n 14._o how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n it_o be_v the_o great_a business_n of_o christian_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o their_o conscience_n that_o from_o no_o untenderness_n in_o their_o way_n there_o may_v be_v any_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n at_o lest_o none_o such_o as_o may_v wound_v the_o conscience_n and_o break_v or_o mar_v the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o it_o before_o god_n or_o disturb_v or_o interupt_v that_o sweet_a serenity_n and_o distinct_a calmness_n of_o a_o spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n that_o he_o allow_v on_o believer_n in_o he_o who_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o to_o have_v always_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o alace_o its_o not_o all_o professor_n of_o religion_n it_o be_v not_o all_o gracious_a christian_n that_o win_v at_o this_o who_o i_o mean_v serious_a christian_n partly_o throw_v the_o unmortified_a reminder_n of_o corruption_n still_o dwell_v in_o they_o and_o partly_o through_o their_o own_o unwatchfulness_n fall_v often_o into_o such_o sin_n as_o defile_v the_o conscience_n and_o obstruct_v the_o clear_a light_n and_o serene_a tranquillity_n thereof_o when_o in_o any_o measure_n attain_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a to_o know_v
eat_v out_o the_o very_a life_n and_o feel_n of_o the_o conscience_n though_o it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v a_o conscience_n still_o and_o a_o conscience_n that_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v aloud_o one_o day_n albeit_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n it_o be_v silent_a now_o 3._o we_o may_v also_o see_v here_o the_o reason_n why_o many_o person_n be_v so_o very_o filthy_a that_o sin_n become_v a_o delight_n to_o they_o so_o that_o the_o sin_n that_o other_o can_v not_o sleep_v with_o they_o can_v sleep_v till_o they_o get_v it_o commit_v because_o through_o a_o custom_n of_o and_o continuance_n in_o sin_v their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v 2_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n before_o he_o be_v purge_v by_o christ_n blood_n have_v his_o conscience_n whole_o defile_v not_o only_o in_o part_n as_o we_o say_v of_o the_o believer_n but_o whole_o before_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o be_v purge_v by_o his_o blood_n he_o be_v like_o that_o wretched_a infant_n describe_v ezek._n 16._o 5._o which_o description_n set_v forth_o to_o the_o life_n what_o these_o people_n be_v before_o god_n enter_v in_o covenant_n with_o they_o cast_v out_o in_o the_o open_a field_n to_o the_o loathe_n of_o their_o person_n unsalted_a and_o unswadle_v with_o their_o navil_n uncut_v wallow_v in_o their_o own_o blood_n and_o have_v no_o eye_n to_o pity_v they_o and_o thus_o be_v all_o man_n and_o woman_n without_o exception_n before_o they_o be_v in_o covenant_n with_o god_n they_o be_v whole_o in_o a_o state_n of_o irreconciliation_n and_o enmity_n with_o god_n who_o law_n do_v not_o only_o condemn_v this_o and_o that_o work_n or_o deed_n of_o they_o but_o all_o of_o they_o as_o but_o dead_a work_n their_o very_a state_n and_o person_n be_v condemn_v their_o peace_n if_o they_o have_v any_o be_v no_o solid_a peace_n none_o of_o god_n peace_n for_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n nor_o ground_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o wicked_a say_v my_o god_n isai._n 57_o their_o inclination_n be_v whole_o deprave_a and_o corrupt_v all_o their_o thought_n and_o imagination_n be_v evil_a only_o evil_a and_o continual_o evil_a as_o it_o be_v gen._n 6._o 5._o and_o as_o that_o often_o cite_v emphatic_a word_n be_v tit._n 1_o 15._o to_o he_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a there_o be_v nothing_o pure_a every_o practice_n of_o he_o &_o the_o use_n of_o every_o thing_n be_v to_o he_o impure_a and_o his_o very_a mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v total_o defile_v and_o this_o will_v be_v yet_o more_o clear_a if_o we_o consider_v 1._o the_o case_n that_o the_o man_n be_v in_o who_o be_v not_o in_o christ_n he_o be_v without_o god_n without_o hope_n under_o his_o curse_n and_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o his_o law_n and_o can_v a_o man_n possible_o have_v a_o clear_a conscience_n that_o be_v under_o god_n curse_n and_o have_v the_o sentence_n of_o his_o law_n stand_v over_o his_o head_n unrepealed_a therefore_o he_o be_v say_v john_n 3._o to_o be_v condemn_v already_o and_o to_o have_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n abide_v on_o he_o 2._o if_o we_o consider_v that_o a_o man_n in_o this_o condition_n be_v under_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n he_o be_v a_o captive_a of_o it_o and_o of_o the_o devil_n at_o his_o will_n as_o it_o be_v 2_o tim_n 2._o 26_o so_o that_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o motion_n or_o temptation_n to_o sin_n but_o he_o hearken_v to_o it_o and_o comply_v with_o it_o his_o heart_n be_v open_a to_o swarm_n of_o lust_n and_o as_o a_o cage_n to_o unclean_a and_o foul_a spirit_n legion_n of_o devil_n in_o a_o manner_n haunt_v he_o now_o if_o such_o a_o man_n can_v have_v a_o clear_a conscience_n you_o may_v easy_o judge_v and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o every_o man_n by_o nature_n and_o therefore_o when_o christ_n speak_v of_o the_o renovation_n of_o a_o man_n he_o sometime_o call_v it_o the_o cast_v out_o of_o the_o devil_n import_v thereby_o that_o every_o man_n in_o nature_n be_v a_o common_a receptacle_n as_o it_o be_v to_o devil_n the_o 1._o use_v of_o this_o serve_v to_o teach_v we_o how_o we_o ought_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n to_o loathe_v the_o state_n of_o nature_n and_o how_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o ought_v to_o love_n and_o long_a after_o a_o state_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n by_o who_o only_o our_o natural_a state_n can_v be_v change_v be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n that_o so_o many_o rational_a man_n and_o woman_n can_v live_v and_o lie_v still_o in_o their_o natural_a state_n without_o mind_v or_o look_v after_o a_o change_n consider_v that_o this_o stand_v record_v of_o and_o against_o they_o that_o their_o very_a mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v and_o that_o with_o dead_a work_n and_o that_o all_o who_o be_v not_o in_o christ_n be_v so_o defile_v vile_a and_o abominable_a that_o the_o most_o stink_a dunghill_n be_v not_o so_o loathsome_a as_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o person_n be_v o_o what_o heap_n and_o dunghill_n of_o lust_n what_o puddle_n and_o mire_n what_o kennel_n and_o sink_n of_o pollution_n and_o noisome_a and_o poisonable_a filthiness_n be_v there_o what_o noisome_a and_o poisonable_a sin_n be_v drink_v down_o with_o pleasure_n as_o so_o much_o sweet_a wine_n all_o which_o be_v keep_v in_o retentis_fw-la by_o the_o conscience_n never_o one_o of_o they_o be_v forget_v though_o for_o the_o time_n the_o conscience_n by_o its_o silence_n be_v suppose_v to_o have_v forget_v they_o yet_o it_o will_v set_v they_o all_o in_o order_n marshal_v they_o all_o as_o it_o be_v in_o rank_n and_o file_v against_o the_o person_n who_o shall_v be_v find_v out_o of_o christ_n in_o a_o most_o formidable_a manner_n it_o will_v not_o suffer_v one_o sin_n nor_o so_o much_o as_o one_o aggravate_v circumstance_n of_o any_o sin_n to_o be_v forget_v it_o will_v bring_v forth_o all_o and_o charge_v they_o home_o furious_o and_o irresistable_o this_o in_o god_n holy_a justice_n will_v be_v the_o use_n of_o conscience_n to_o all_o such_o person_n it_o be_v not_o like_o a_o conduit_n or_o pipe_n that_o take_v in_o at_o the_o one_o end_n and_o le_fw-fr we_o out_o at_o the_o other_o but_o like_o a_o stand_a sink_n that_o still_o retain_v all_o that_o come_v into_o it_o o_o than_o what_o a_o foul_a and_o filthy_a bag_n to_o speak_v ●o_o be_v the_o conscience_n of_o many_o a_o man_n and_o woman_n so_o that_o no_o botch_n boul_n or_o imposthume_n have_v such_o vile_a filthy_a and_o abominable_a matter_n in_o it_o as_o it_o have_v o_o what_o a_o noisome_a and_o vi●ely_a stink_a smell_n will_v that_o putrid_a matter_n send_v forth_o when_o god_n prick_v it_o this_o shall_v make_v you_o all_o to_o loath_a live_n in_o your_o natural_a state_n and_o to_o long_o without_o linger_v to_o be_v out_o of_o it_o it_o be_v like_a that_o many_o take_v it_o ill_o ●o_o have_v such_o thing_n say_v or_o think_v of_o they_o but_o i_o assure_v you_o all_o that_o be_v out_o of_o christ_n whether_o you_o have_v a_o more_o full_a or_o empty_a purse_n about_o you_o you_o have_v this_o filthy_a bag_n full_a of_o sin_n within_o you_o and_o while_o you_o secure_o heap_v sin_n upon_o sin_n you_o be_v treasure_v up_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n and_o of_o the_o righteous_a judgement_n of_o god_n the_o 2_o use_n serve_v to_o let_v we_o see_v what_o a_o poor_a and_o sorry_a ground_n the_o most_o part_n have_v for_o their_o peace_n of_o conscience_n we_o may_v in_o truth_n wonder_v how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o many_o of_o you_o can_v have_v any_o peace_n have_v such_o a_o puddle_n of_o filthiness_n within_o you_o if_o it_o be_v true_a that_o your_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v which_o be_v the_o best_a thing_n you_o have_v and_o one_o day_n will_v clear_o and_o convince_o make_v discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o o_o how_o much_o hypocrisy_n and_o presumption_n will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v among_o you_o in_o stead_n of_o true_a and_o solid_a peace_n with_o which_o you_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v so_o long_o as_o these_o whoredom_n and_o witchcraft_n to_o say_v so_o of_o filthy_a sin_n be_v with_o you_o unpurged_a away_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n the_o 3._o use_n serve_v to_o demonstrat_fw-la and_o clear_o to_o hold_v forth_o the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o transcendent_a worth_n and_o matchless_a excellency_n that_o be_v in_o he_o that_o even_o when_o a_o man_n be_v thus_o defile_v and_o pollute_v by_o sin_n these_o dead_a work_n there_o be_v access_n by_o his_o blood_n to_o get_v the_o conscience_n purge_v and_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o we_o will_v main_o point_v at_o from_o these_o word_n and_o which_o we_o intend_v god_n
consider_v that_o the_o best_a and_o most_o discern_a man_n may_v be_v mistake_v in_o their_o application_n of_o these_o evidence_n to_o we_o neither_o be_v it_o the_o end_n of_o conference_n to_o be_v a_o ground_n of_o peace_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n there_o be_v no_o solid_a course_n take_v how_o to_o get_v our_o debt_n paye●_n and_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n satify_v our_o main_n yea_o our_o first_o work_n will_v be_v to_o be_v take_v ourselves_o to_o the_o cautioner_n and_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v under_o the_o conviction_n and_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o guilt_n and_o then_o we_o may_v profitable_o reason_v ourselves_o and_o admit_v of_o the_o reason_n of_o other_o for_o help_v to_o quiet_v our_o conscience_n and_o unless_o there_o be_v actual_a flee_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o his_o blood_n precede_v and_o go_v before_o word_n of_o comfort_n or_o direction_n speak_v whether_o in_o private_a or_o in_o public_a this_o word_n of_o god_n declare_v they_o to_o be_v null_n and_o vo●d_v as_o to_o any_o advantage_n to_o we_o 4_o observe_v that_o when_o nothing_o can_v pacify_v a_o eull_n and_o defile_v conscience_n nor_o purge_v it_o from_o dead_a work_n the_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n by_o faith_n can_v and_o will_v purge_v that_o conscience_n and_o give_v peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o it_o with_o holy_a and_o humble_a confidence_n and_o boldness_n in_o come_v and_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n as_o if_o in_o some_o respect_n it_o have_v never_o be_v defile_v by_o these_o dead_a work_n of_o sin_n it_o be_v the_o apostle_n great_a scope_n and_o design_n here_o to_o press_v these_o two_o which_o be_v the_o two_o branch_n of_o the_o doctrine_n 1._o the_o sufficiency_n of_o christ_n blood_n as_o the_o price_n that_o ●atisfies_v divine_a justice_n and_o quiet_v the_o conscience_n for_o when_o the_o conscience_n get_v this_o blood_n apply_v to_o it_o by_o faith_n it_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o crave_v any_o further_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n who_o deputy_n it_o be_v as_o if_o something_o be_v owe_v that_o blood_n as_o a_o full_a and_o condign_a price_n satisfy_v for_o all_o the_o debt_n how_o much_o more_o say_v the_o apostle_n here_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n the_o second_o branch_n be_v that_o which_o follow_v upon_o ●his_fw-la as_o a_o native_a use_n of_o it_o that_o a_o belle●er_n who_o have_v flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n after_o the_o commit_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v actual_o apply_v his_o blood_n to_o the_o conscience_n may_v have_v quietness_n in_o it_o and_o go_v with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n to_o god_n and_o may_v on_o this_o ground_n maintain_v his_o peace_n in_o some_o respect_n as_o if_o he_o have_v never_o sin_v so_o ●uos_a the_o apostle_n scope_n if_o we_o look_v to_o the_o 19_o v_o of_o chap._n 10._o and_o forward_o having_n therefore_o brethren_n say_v he_o boldness_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a by_o a_o new_a and_o live_a way_n ●y_a the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o full_a assurance_n of_o say_v have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n though_o it_o have_v be_v pollute_v before_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o rare_a pearl_n and_o rich_a jewel_n of_o the_o gospel_n one_o of_o the_o excellent_a privilege_n of_o a_o bel●ever_n and_o one_o of_o the_o noble_a and_o notable_a expr●ssions_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o withal_o the_o great_a proo●_n of_o the_o reality_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n viz._n that_o when_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o poor_a believer_n be_v confound_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n put_v on_o the_o wrack_n with_o many_o challenge_n for_o sin_n he_o may_v m●ke_v application_n of_o christ_n blood_n and_o on_o that_o ground_n have_v sweet_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o soul_n for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o we_o shall_v 1._o lay_v down_o some_o ground_n for_o its_o confirmation_n and_o then_o 2_o make_v some_o ●se_n of_o it_o as_o for_o the_o first_o of_o they_o to_o wit_n some_o ground_n to_o confirm_v it_o take_v these_o few_o short_o 1._o if_o by_o the_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n there_o be_v solid_a peace_n make_v up_o betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o sinner_n it_o will_v necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n will_v ●urge_v the_o conscience_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v ground_n of_o peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o it_o for_o say_v john_n epistle_n 1_o chap._n 3._o v._n 20._o god_n be_v great_a than_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n and_o say_v paul_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o though_o we_o know_v nothing_o by_o ourselves_o yet_o be_v we_o not_o hereby_o justify_v but_o ●e_v that_o judge_v we_o be_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v sound_a reason_n god_n have_v nothing_o to_o say_v therefore_o the_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v satisfy_v but_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o by_o the_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n solid_a peace_n be_v make_v up_o betwixt_o god_n and_o a_o sinner_n as_o rom._n 5._o 1._o be_v justify_v by_o say_v we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v no_o stand_a controversy_n nor_o quarrel_n ●onger_o than_o by_o faith_n the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v ●led_v unto_o and_o apply_v john_n 5._o 24._o he_o that_o hear_v my_o word_n and_o believe_v on_o ●im_n that_o send_v i_o have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o shall_v not_o come_v into_o condemnation_n he_o shall_v come_v to_o judgement_n to_o be_v absolve_v but_o not_o to_o be_v condemn_v for_o as_o it_o be_v john_n 3._o 18._o he_o that_o believe_v on_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v condemn_v and_o rom._n 8._o 1._o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o 1_o john_n 5._o 12._o he_o that_o have_v the_o son_n have_v life_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v the_o over_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o will_v follow_v that_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o poor_a sinner_n that_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n have_v good_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o the_o conscience_n ●ormentingly_o or_o anxious_o to_o challenge_v and_o this_o be_v indeed_o no_o small_a matter_n and_o yet_o no_o presumption_n after_o a_o sinner_n have_v flee_v to_o christ_n to_o quiet_v himself_o and_o to_o be_v at_o peace_n on_o this_o ground_n a_o second_o ground_n of_o confirmation_n be_v the_o experience_n of_o all_o the_o sain●s_v record_v in_o the_o scripture_n after_o their_o fa●lings_n and_o fall_n into_o sin_n what_o have_v quiet_v they_o may_v also_o quiet_v we_o for_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n of_o make_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o the_o take_n of_o that_o way_n work_v as_o to_o the_o main_a alike_o to_o all_o now_o it_o be_v this_o way_n that_o have_v quiet_v they_o it_o be_v the_o same_o faith_n in_o all_o and_o alike_o precious_a 〈◊〉_d in_o all_o as_o to_o the_o kind_n because_o it_o have_v the_o like_a precious_a substantial_a effect_n in_o all_o it_o be_v this_o therefore_o that_o must_v give_v quietness_n and_o boldness_n to_o we_o that_o which_o quiet_v they_o be_v a_o look_n an_z often_o renew_v look_n as_o guilt_n be_v of_o new_a contract_v through_o all_o these_o type_n and_o shadow_n to_o christ_n all_o of_o they_o have_v their_o original_n and_o actual_a pollution_n whereby_o their_o conscience_n be_v some_o w●y_n defile_v and_o disquiet_v yet_o through_o application_n of_o christ_n blood_n they_o win_v to_o peace_n purge_v i_o say_v david_n psal._n 51._o with_o hyssop_n and_o i_o shall_v be_v clean_a etc._n etc._n even_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v write_v his_o lybel_n and_o he_o be_v under_o challenge_n for_o his_o guilt_n he_o have_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o interest_n and_o attain_v peace_n through_o application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o come_v signify_v by_o purge_v with_o hyssop_n for_o that_o ground_n stand_v sure_a which_o be_v lay_v down_o act_n 13._o 38_o 39_o be_v it_o know_v unto_o you_o therefore_o man_n and_o brethren_n that_o through_o this_o man_n be_v preach_v unto_o you_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n and_o by_o he_o all_o that_o believe_v be_v 〈◊〉_d from_o all_o thing_n from_o which_o you_o can_v not_o be_v justify_v by_o the_o law_n o●_n moses_n there_o be_v indeed_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v a_o large_a and_o long_a 〈◊〉_d and_o indictment_n that_o sin_n and_o t●e_v law_n and_o the_o conscience_n have_v against_o you_o but_o be_v it_o know_v unto_o you_o that_o through_o jesus_n christ_n remission_n of_o sin_n be_v preach_v to_o you_o and_o that_o through_o say_v in_o he_o you_o be_v justify_v and_o fir_v
and_o repentance_n for_o sin_n nor_o of_o challenge_n on_o that_o account_n these_o may_v and_o shall_v be_v where_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v make_v use_n of_o and_o apply_v by_o faith_n to_o the_o person_n conscience_n they_o will_v not_o mar_v this_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n nor_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n that_o we_o speak_v of_o but_o rather_o further_o it_o as_o be_v clear_a from_o the_o draw_v near_o of_o the_o saint_n to_o god_n record_v in_o the_o scripture_n as_o for_o instance_n in_o that_o woman_n speak_v of_o luke_n 7._o 38._o who_o weep_v and_o weep_v so_o abundant_o that_o she_o wash_v the_o lord_n foot_n with_o her_o tear_n yet_o she_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o with_o confidence_n nay_o this_o draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n do_v not_o remove_v all_o fear_n look_v on_o fear_n as_o it_o carry_v along_o with_o it_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o infinite_a distance_n and_o dis-proportion_n that_o be_v betwixt_o the_o majesty_n of_o the_o great_a god_n and_o a_o finit_a seckless_a and_o sinful_a creature_n nor_o that_o holy_a awe_n and_o fillal_a reverence_n that_o be_v due_a to_o he_o and_o well_o consistent_a with_o this_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n nay_o inseparable_a from_o the_o lively_a and_o kind_o exercise_v of_o it_o but_o it_o suppose_v these_o four_o 1._o that_o the_o believer_n flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v may_v bold_o go_v to_o god_n in_o prayer_n as_o if_o his_o friendship_n with_o he_o in_o adam_n have_v never_o be_v break_v as_o the_o apostle_n insinuat_v v_o 19_o while_o he_o say_v have_v therefore_o brethren_n boldness_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o holl_a etc._n etc._n there_o be_v a_o liberty_n and_o boldness_n as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v allow_v he_o to_o call_v god_n father_n as_o if_o the_o former_a covenant_n have_v never_o be_v break_v by_o a_o son_n turn_v a_o rebel_n and_o traitor_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n under_o the_o bond_n of_o which_o he_o be_v bring_v as_o god_n confederate_a make_v the_o relation_n to_o he_o as_o near_o straight_o kind_o firm_a and_o sure_a as_o it_o be_v in_o that_o other_o with_o considerable_a superadded_a advantage_n 2_o that_o he_o may_v meddle_v with_o and_o make_v use_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o pardon_n of_o sin_n of_o sanctification_n of_o throwbearing_a in_o affliction_n of_o quicken_a of_o peace_n of_o comfort_n etc._n etc._n according_a as_o he_o stand_v in_o need_n with_o confidence_n and_o may_v draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n faithfulness_n as_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o in_o his_o own_o measure_n manner_n and_o time_n so_o that_o if_o the_o believer_n can_v as_o full_o and_o strong_o exercise_v his_o faith_n on_o the_o promise_n as_o he_o have_v warrant_n to_o do_v he_o may_v with_o as_o much_o confidence_n and_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n cast_v himself_o on_o they_o ●s_a adam_n in_o innocency_n do_v on_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n in_o the_o first_o covenant_n because_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n apply_v by_o faith_n give_v as_o real_a just_a and_o legal_a a_o right_n to_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o adam_n have_v to_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n by_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n the_o condition_n of_o that_o covenant_n viz._n perfect_a holiness_n and_o obedience_n be_v fulfil_v by_o christ_n in_o our_o name_n and_o room_n 3_o that_o the_o sprinkle_n of_o the_o conscience_n by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n give_v the_o believer_n a_o well_o ground_a hope_n of_o heaven_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o of_o glory_n even_o of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o promise_n therefore_o heb._n 6._o 11._o the_o apostle_n exhort_v christian_n thus_o show_v forth_o the_o same_o diligence_n to_o the_o full_a assurance_n of_o hope_n to_o the_o end_n and_o be_v follower_n of_o they_o who_o through_o faith_n and_o patience_n have_v inherit_v the_o promise_n the_o lively_a application_n of_o faith_n to_o christ_n blood_n reach_v to_o the_o full_a assurance_n of_o the_o hope_n of_o all_o that_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o promise_n and_o if_o the_o promise_n be_v a_o solid_a and_o firm_a ground_n and_o if_o faith_n lean_a realy_a and_o strong_o to_o it_o hope_n may_v well_o expect_v the_o great_a thing_n in_o it_o 4_o the_o believer_n who_o have_v his_o conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o this_o blo●_n 〈◊〉_d expect_v full_a and_o through_o publication_n of_o absolution_n and_o justification_n in_o the_o court_n and_o before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n as_o the_o divine_a historian_n give_v ground_n of_o hope_n act_v 3._o v_o 19_o and_o in_o the_o court_n of_o the_o word_n and_o of_o his_o own_o conscience_n here_o in_o this_o life_n he_o have_v ground_n with_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 8._o to_o say_v nay_o triumphant_o to_o boast_n and_o bid_v a_o eternal_a defiance_n to_o all_o that_o will_v offer_v at_o it_o who_o shall_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o god_n elect_v it_o be_v god_n that_o justify_v who_o be_v he_o that_o condemn_v he_o may_v say_v that_o indeed_o he_o be_v owe_v and_o a_o debtor_n once_o but_o they_o can_v crave_v payment_n of_o and_o satisfaction_n for_o the_o debt_n from_o he_o now_o because_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n he_o be_v acquit_v for_o it_o be_v christ_n who_o have_v die_v yea_o rather_o be_v rise_v again_o who_o be_v at_o the_o right-hand_a of_o god_n make_v intercession_n for_o we_o the_o believe_v elect_v make_v the_o right_a use_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o this_o most_o precious_a blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n may_v humble_o and_o confident_o expect_v all_o these_o thing_n from_o and_o by_o it_o o_o great_a and_o glorious_a expectation_n as_o for_o the_o 2d_o thing_n how_o or_o after_o what_o manner_n or_o by_o what_o mean_v this_o unspeakable_o excellent_a privilege_n of_o draw_v 〈◊〉_d with_o full_a assurance_n o●_n faith_n with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n to_o obtain_v all_o these_o great_a thing_n may_v be_v attain_v and_o win_v at_o it_o be_v answer_v in_o the_o word_n go_v a_o little_a before_o have_v therefore_o boldness_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a by_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n let_v we_o draw_v near_o etc._n etc._n it_o be_v suppose_v 〈◊〉_d that_o there_o be_v a_o flee_v to_o christ_n for_o satisfy_v of_o divine_a justice_n 2_o that_o application_n be_v make_v to_o he_o for_o age_v pacify_v and_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v with_o the_o conscience_n in_o this_o case_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o sea_n after_o a_o great_a storm_n which_o after_o the_o cease_n of_o the_o storm_n will_n fro_o some_o time_n have_v its_o wave_n much_o toss_v and_o 〈◊〉_d in_o great_a agitation_n so_o after_o divine_a justice_n be_v pacify_v and_o ●almed_v ●o_o speak_v so_o by_o the_o soul_n flee_v to_o christ_n for_o satisfy_v thereof_o there_o may_v remain_v still_o for_o a_o while_n short_a or_o long_o as_o he_o shall_v think_v fit_a some_o rage_a as_o it_o be_v some_o trouble_n toss_v and_o agitation_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o believer_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o that_o instance_n of_o david_n who_o after_o the_o prophet_n nath●_n have_v make_v intimation_n of_o pardon_n to_o he_o yet_o be_v still_o in_o considerable_a disquiet_n and_o agitation_n of_o his_o conscience_n as_o the_o 51._o psal._n give_v we_o a_o account_n now_o as_o for_o the_o attainin_n of_o calmness_n tranquillity_n and_o peace_n to_o the_o conscience_n we_o will_v say_v that_o whatever_o be_v necessary_a and_o requisite_a ing_z the_o application_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n for_o make_v of_o our_o peace_n with_o god_n the_o same_o be_v needful_a to_o calm_v and_o give_v peace_n to_o the_o conscience_n what_o be_v that_o will_v you_o say_v see_v rom._n 4._o 5._o to_o he_o that_o work_v not_o but_o believe_v on_o he_o who_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a his_o faith_n be_v count_v for_o righteousness_n which_o be_v join_v with_o the_o word_n in_o the_o text_n say_v that_o the_o way_n to_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n be_v first_o not_o for_o person_n to_o staift_n or_o refuse_v their_o debt_n but_o to_o take_v with_o it_o 2_o to_o renounce_v and_o disclaim_v all_o possibility_n to_o satisfy_v divine_a justice_n themselves_o 3_o to_o flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o through_o virtue_n of_o his_o satisfaction_n and_o blood_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o rest_v on_o he_o for_o pardon_n to_o believe_v on_o he_o though_o someway_o ungodly_a who_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a for_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o take_v with_o our_o debt_n and_o to_o quit_v and_o renounce_v the_o covenant_n of_o work_n except_o we_o actual_o rest_v on_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n this_o be_v it_o
which_o the_o apostle_n hold_v forth_o philip._n 3._o 9_o where_o he_o say_v that_o i_o may_v be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v my_o own_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n but_o that_o which_o be_v through_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n he_o suppose_v justice_n to_o be_v pursue_v he_o and_o that_o nothing_o he_o can_v do_v for_o himself_o will_v divert_v justice_n its_o pursuit_n nor_o secure_v he_o against_o it_o that_o he_o be_v a_o lose_v and_o go_v man_n i●_n himself_o he_o rest_v not_o on_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o lose_a estate_n but_o seek_v to_o be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v his_o own_o rig●ousness_n which_o be_v by_o the_o law_n but_o the_o righteousness_n whi●_n be_v by_o faith_n in_o he_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n that_o give_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o shall_v quiet_v the_o conscience_n but_o whe●_n the_o sinner_n have_v take_v this_o way_n if_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o yet_o quiet_v and_o calm_v there_o be_v something_o further_a necessary_a as_o first_o the_o actual_a renew_n of_o that_o application_n to_o christ_n to_o get_v not_o so_o much_o a_o new_a pardon_n as_o a_o new_a extract_n of_o that_o pardon_n which_o he_o receive_v in_o his_o first_o flee_v to_o christ_n that_o by_o this_o renew_a application_n of_o faith_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v he_o may_v also_o quiet_a the_o conscience_n so_o that_o when_o the_o man_n be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o at_o peace_n with_o god_n if_o he_o have_v not_o peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n he_o be_v to_o cast_v a_o renew_a look_n to_o the_o promise_n and_o to_o act_v faith_n of_o new_a on_o christ_n blood_n to_o hold_v it_o forth_o as_o it_o be_v unto_o and_o to_o lay_v it_o before_o his_o conscience_n take_v with_o his_o sin_n yet_o hold_v still_o by_o it_o that_o he_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o on_o that_o ground_n make_v use_n of_o the_o promise_n for_o the_o renew_a pardon_n of_o sin_n through_o his_o blood_n in_o this_o respect_n faith_n be_v call_v eph._n 6._o 16._o a_o shield_n take_v unto_o you_o say_v the_o apostle_n the_o shield_n of_o faith_n whereby_o you_o may_v quench_v all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o the_o devil_n when_o the_o challenge_n be_v cast_v in_o on_o the_o conscience_n it_o as_o it_o be_v burn_v the_o believer_n even_o as_o a_o fiery_a or_o poison_a dart_n throw_v into_o a_o man_n body_n burn_v and_o inflame_v it_o but_o faith_n go_v to_o the_o fountain_n of_o christ_n blood_n to_o the_o covenant_n and_o promise_n and_o draw_v out_o of_o these_o well_n of_o salvation_n bucketfull_n as_o it_o be_v to_o quench_v it_o or_o when_o a_o challenge_n come_v in_o back_v with_o temptation_n it_o make_v use_v of_o the_o promise_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o answer_v it_o and_o so_o faith_n be_v as_o a_o shield_n or_o targe_n to_o kepp_n the_o dart_n and_o beat_v it_o back_o it_o make_v the_o believer_n say_v i_o can_v satisfy_v for_o this_o sin_n but_o here_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o pardon_n to_o the_o man_n that_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v as_o i_o be_o and_o make_v use_v of_o christ_n in_o the_o promise_n for_o renew_a intimation_n of_o pardon_n or_o for_o renew_a pardon_n as_o new_a guilt_n be_v contract_v and_o thus_o he_o be_v keep_v quiet_a that_o the_o challenge_n win_v not_o in_o so_o sar_n nor_o go_v so_o deep_a as_o to_o sting_v he_o in_o his_o vital_a part_n to_o speak_v so_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o peace_n and_o quietness_n be_v keep_v still_o alive_a tough_a he_o be_v in_o quick_a and_o sharp_a exercise_n under_o the_o challenge_n 2_o because_o challenge_n will_v not_o soon_o nor_o easy_o be_v get_v remove_v nor_o the_o conscience_n quick_o and_o without_o difficulty_n calm_v as_o we_o see_v in_o that_o forementioned_a instance_n of_o david_n psal._n 51._o there_o be_v need_n therefore_o of_o continue_v in_o the_o fight_n and_o of_o draw_v conclusion_n from_o solid_a and_o undeniable_a premise_n and_o ground_n to_o quiet_a the_o conscience_n and_o ward_v off_o challenge_n so_o as_o they_o may_v not_o wound_v and_o quite_o mar_v peace_n as_o paul_n do_v rom._n 8._o 1_o 2._o it_o may_v have_v be_v say_v to_o he_o thou_o have_v be_v complain_v of_o a_o body_n of_o death_n and_o that_o with_o thy_o flesh_n thou_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o be_v not_o that_o a_o grievous_a challenge_n against_o thou_o it_o be_v true_a as_o if_o he_o say_v but_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o make_v use_n aright_o of_o the_o targe_n or_o shield_n of_o faith_n but_o to_o put_v the_o matter_n out_o of_o doubt_n he_o go_v on_o and_o subsume_v and_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n for_o the_o word_n be_v applicative_a to_o himself_o and_o speak_v with_o a_o considerable_a regard_n to_o his_o own_o particular_a exercise_n set_v down_o chap._n 7._o ay_o by_o faith_n be_o flee_v to_o christ_n for_o resuge_a and_o so_o be_o in_o christ_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n to_o i_o and_o indeed_o when_o ever_o challenge_v come_v in_o from_o sense_n and_o conscience_n put_v through_o other_o or_o mingle_v together_o as_o it_o be_v blow_v upon_o by_o temptation_n which_o will_v pursue_v the_o believer_n hardly_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o reason_n from_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n to_o ward_v off_o the_o blow_n and_o to_o queit_v the_o conscience_n and_o this_o though_o it_o be_v a_o reflex_n act_n of_o faith_n which_o do_v not_o justify_v yet_o it_o serve_v to_o reason_v the_o conscience_n into_o peace_n and_o calmness_n and_o there_o be_v need_n of_o faith_n act_v thus_o reflex_o though_o not_o as_o i_o say_v to_o justify_v yet_o to_o bring_v home_o the_o peace_n and_o comfort_n of_o justification_n and_o renew_v extract_n and_o intimation_n of_o pardon_n 3_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o believer_n quiet_a themselves_o positive_o by_o comfort_v &_o confirm_v themselves_o in_o the_o faith_n of_o what_o the_o promise_n speak_v and_o in_o the_o hope_n of_o what_o they_o have_v to_o expect_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o former_a and_o this_o be_v that_o in_o the_o former_a we_o draw_v home_o answer_n from_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n to_o ward_v off_o the_o dint_n and_o bitterness_n of_o challenge_n but_o that_o be_v not_o enough_o thorough_o to_o calm_v and_o settle_v the_o soul_n therefore_o the_o latter_a be_v also_o needful_a that_o the_o soul_n positive_o draw_v in_o peace_n and_o consolation_n to_o itself_o by_o believe_v which_o as_o it_o be_v philip._n 4._o be_v able_a to_o guard_v the_o heart_n and_o mind_n through_o christ_n jesus_n and_o we_o conceive_v this_o to_o be_v david_n exercise_n psal._n 51._o where_o by_o exercise_v his_o faith_n on_o the_o promise_n and_o on_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o messiah_n to_o be_v shed_v and_o by_o wrestle_v for_o the_o intimation_n of_o pardon_n and_o peace_n he_o labour_v not_o only_o to_o get_v his_o conscience_n calm_v but_o even_o fill_v with_o consolation_n and_o because_o the_o promise_n be_v often_o somewhat_o wersh_fw-mi and_o tasteless_a to_o say_v so_o if_o not_o season_v and_o quicken_v by_o god_n voice_n go_v along_o with_o they_o and_o put_v favour_n and_o life_n in_o they_o this_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o joy_n and_o gladness_n which_o he_o will_v so_o fain_o hear_v therefore_o the_o believer_n insist_o with_o god_n thus_o to_o be-sprinkle_a his_o conscience_n and_o as_o he_o look_v to_o the_o righteousness_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o justification_n so_o he_o look_v to_o it_o for_o calm_v of_o the_o conscience_n and_o this_o be_v in_o effect_n to_o be_v behold_v to_o free_a grace_n as_o for_o pardon_v of_o fin_n so_o for_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n without_o which_o any_o other_o thing_n will_v not_o do_v the_o turn_n as_o for_o the_o 3d._a thing_n propose_v to_o he_o speak_v of_o viz._n the_o time_n or_o season_n or_o the_o case_n wherein_o the_o believer_n may_v and_o aught_o in_o a_o special_a manner_n to_o make_v use_n of_o his_o liberty_n and_o boldness_n in_o draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n there_o be_v no_o question_n but_o a_o believer_n who_o have_v make_v use_n of_o christ_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o justification_n may_v also_o and_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o he_o and_o his_o blood_n for_o the_o sprinkle_v his_o conscience_n that_o he_o may_v come_v to_o god_n with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n and_o there_o be_v no_o case_n wherein_o a_o believer_n may_v not_o aim_v at_o this_o but_o more_o especial_o he_o shall_v in_o these_o case_n as_o first_o when_o he_o be_v fall_v into_o more_o gross_a guilt_n as_o david_n be_v psal_n 51._o 2ly_n when_o that_o gross_a guilt_n and_o grievous_a sin_v be_v
wait_v with_o great_a aggravation_n as_o in_o that_o ps._n david_n sin_n be_v aggravate_v mighty_o by_o he_o and_o yet_o he_o make_v application_n to_o christ_n over_o all_o that_o guilt_n and_o all_o these_o aggravation_n of_o his_o guilt_n 3_o when_o the_o believer_n have_v through_o his_o folly_n relapse_v in_o sin_n which_o be_v not_o speak_v to_o give_v a_o liberty_n to_o sin_n god_n forbid_v woe_n to_o they_o that_o make_v so_o curse_v a_o use_n of_o such_o bless_a doctrine_n but_o to_o the_o commendation_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o of_o the_o worth_n and_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n and_o for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o lose_a sinner_n that_o will_v fain_o be_v at_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o peace_n for_o as_o long_o as_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n have_v efficacy_n and_o worth_n and_o as_o far_o as_o the_o promise_n extend_v itself_o as_o long_o and_o as_o far_o may_v the_o believer_n reach_v his_o faith_n for_o come_v up_o to_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n although_o for_o his_o humiliation_n and_o keep_v humble_a he_o may_v possible_o never_o win_v at_o not_o recover_v his_o former_a confidence_n and_o boldness_n yet_o look_v to_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n and_o hope_n he_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o study_v to_o stretch_n his_o faith_n to_o the_o attain_n of_o it_o 4_o he_o may_v and_o shall_v thus_o endeavour_v confident_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n when_o challenge_n be_v quick_a and_o very_a sharp_a yea_o when_o the_o challenge_n of_o conscience_n be_v sharp_a and_o most_o pierce_v though_o challenge_n be_v as_o so_o many_o troop_n of_o horse_n rush_v in_o on_o he_o and_o the_o conscience_n be_v like_o a_o lion_n rampant_a stand_v with_o his_o claw_n ready_a to_o to_o tear_v he_o may_v and_o shall_v humble_o take_v with_o guilt_n step_v to_o confident_o and_o make_v application_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o indeed_o this_o be_v the_o very_a time_n when_o in_o a_o special_a manner_n he_o shall_v do_v it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o manslayer_n when_o he_o be_v most_o hot_o pursue_v by_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n that_o be_v the_o very_a time_n when_o he_o be_v call_v to_o flee_v and_o with_o great_a speed_n to_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n and_o the_o allusion_n be_v make_v to_o this_o purpose_n heb._n 6._o 18._o that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n say_v the_o apostle_n wherein_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o god_n to_o lie_v we_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n who_o be_v flee_v for_o refuge_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o the_o hope_n set_v before_o we_o when_o may_v they_o have_v consolation_n and_o strong_a consolation_n even_o when_o they_o be_v flee_v with_o the_o great_a haste_n to_o the_o clay_n of_o refuge_n it_o be_v then_o that_o the_o gate_n of_o the_o city_n be_v cast_v wide_a open_v to_o they_o when_o be_v it_o that_o david_n make_v his_o most_o earnest_a and_o humbly-confident_a address_n to_o god_n for_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n even_o when_o bloodguiltiness_n be_v stare_v he_o in_o the_o face_n and_o when_o his_o very_a bone_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n break_v and_o when_o to_o his_o own_o sense_n his_o grace_n be_v very_o much_o if_o not_o altogether_o go_v and_o when_o he_o have_v as_o be_v be_v forefault_v his_o right_n to_o consolation_n yet_o even_o then_o he_o come_v forward_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n humble_o maintain_v his_o interest_n in_o he_o and_o plead_v for_o former_a manifestation_n upon_o the_o ground_n of_o grace●_n 5_o the_o believer_n may_v and_o aught_o thus_o to_o make_v humbly-confident_a application_n to_o god_n throw_v christ_n when_o he_o find_v to_o the_o great_a grief_n of_o his_o soul_n a_o exceed_a in-disposition_n to_o duty_n when_o his_o pray_n repent_v hear_v etc._n etc._n go_v not_o with_o he_o as_o he_o will_v fain_o have_v they_o if_o there_o be_v a_o real_a flee_v for_o refuge_n to_o the_o hope_v set_v before_o he_o he_o may_v and_o shall_v even_o in_o that_o case_n step_v forward_o and_o draw_v near_o with_o humble_a boldness_n hence_o david_n psal._n 51._o pray_v not_o only_o for_o consolation_n but_o for_o the_o lively_a exercise_n of_o grace_n while_o he_o say_v to_o god_n create_v in_o i_o a_o clean_a heart_n renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n within_o i_o and_o uphold_v i_o with_o thy_o free_a spirit_n the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o exercise_v of_o repentance_n be_v real_a and_o serious_a the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n be_v then_o sure_o native_a and_o will_v ready_o look_v to_o jesus_n go_v over_o all_o that_o come_v in_o the_o way_n of_o it_o in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v then_o when_o the_o humble_a believer_n may_v draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n even_o when_o he_o have_v the_o real_a sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o danger_n and_o flee_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n for_o refuge_n he_o be_v then_o warrant_v to_o run_v to_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n and_o may_v confident_o go_v on_o in_o his_o errand_n viz._n to_o get_v pardon_n of_o sin_n renew_v consolation_n restore_v and_o his_o spiritual_a frame_n right_v it_o be_v no_o doubt_n a_o foolish_a conceit_n and_o a_o prejudicial_a mistake_n for_o trouble_a sinner_n first_o to_o seek_v after_o peace_n and_o then_o to_o make_v application_n to_o christ_n or_o to_o think_v that_o first_o they_o must_v have_v all_o the_o requisit_n of_o a_o good_a spiritual_a frame_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o lively_a exercise_n before_o they_o adventure_v to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o confidence_n i_o grant_v these_o be_v very_o desirable_a and_o the_o soul_n desire_v after_o they_o very_o commendable_a yet_o if_o the_o believer_n resolve_v never_o to_o draw_v thus_o near_o till_o he_o be_v as_o he_o will_v be_v when_o shall_v he_o do_v it_o what_o if_o david_n have_v stand_v and_o stick_v at_o that_o psal._n 51_o he_o may_v have_v be_v keep_v a-back_a and_o so_o be_v unwashen_v all_o his_o day_n but_o know_v the_o way_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o his_o gracious_a covenant_n make_v with_o his_o people_n he_o step_v humble_o yet_o confident_o forward_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n out_o over_o the_o sense_n of_o guiltiness_n and_o all_o the_o aggravation_n of_o it_o over_o relapse_v in_o sin_n over_o in_o disposition_n and_o over_o many_o sharp_a challenge_n all_o take_v with_o and_o lament_v over_o and_o make_v all_o these_o together_o as_o so_o many_o earand_n to_o god_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o commend_v the_o bargan_n of_o freegrace_n and_o to_o hold_v out_o the_o excellency_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v which_o may_v also_o mighty_o encourage_v the_o believer_n to_o step_v forward_o in_o prosecute_n whereof_o i_o shall_v 1._o speak_v a_o word_n to_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v and_o then_o 2_o a_o word_n to_o the_o necessity_n of_o it_o as_o to_o we_o for_o the_o first_o to_o wit_n the_o excellency_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o it_o may_v be_v see_v in_o these_o four_o 1._o in_o the_o noble_a and_o notable_a effect_n that_o it_o produce_v or_o that_o come_v by_o it_o even_o all_o the_o great_a thing_n contain_v in_o the_o promise_v touch_v on_o before_o such_o as_o pardon_v of_o sin_n grace_v to_o subdue_v it_o friendship_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n fellowship_n with_o he_o conformity_n to_o he_o the_o hope_n of_o heaven_n and_o glory_n the_o sweet_a serenity_n tranquillity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v as_o a_o hide_v place_n from_o the_o wind_n and_o rain_n and_o a_o covert_n from_o the_o florm_n yea_o even_o as_o the_o shadow_n of_o a_o great_a rock_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o weary_a land_n when_o the_o soul_n sore_o beat_v with_o the_o storm_n of_o challenge_n and_o of_o the_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n come_v under_o the_o shadow_n and_o shelter_v of_o this_o it_o present_o find_v ease_n and_o repose_v what_o shall_v i_o say_v what_o can_v i_o say_v word_n here_o may_v be_v swallow_v up_o from_o this_o proceed_v all_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n possess_v and_o expect_v in_o hand_n and_o in_o hope_n 2_o it_o be_v excellency_n and_o efficacy_n appear_v in_o this_o that_o it_o have_v procure_v these_o thing_n to_o sinner_n to_o they_o that_o have_v a_o unclean_a and_o pollute_a conscience_n for_o who_o be_v it_o i_o pray_v that_o may_v thus_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o never_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n but_o such_o as_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n flee_v unto_o this_o blood_n and_o get_v it_o sprinkle_v therewith_o it_o be_v these_o who_o have_v their_o conscience_n defile_v with_o dead_a work_n and_o come_v to_o it_o and_o get_v they_o purge_v from_o these_o dead_a work_n 3_o the_o
excellency_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o shine_v forth_o in_o the_o tenderness_n of_o the_o person_n that_o apply_v the_o remedy_n to_o such_o a_o loathsome_a sickness_n and_o otherways_o insutable_a disease_n or_o by_o any_o other_o hand_n but_o christ_n have_v say_v the_o apostle_n such_o a_o high_a priest_n over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n ●et_v we_o draw_v near_o the_o physician_n be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o his_o blood_n be_v the_o cure_n and_o he_o also_o be_v the_o applyer_n of_o the_o cure_n and_o o_o how_o very_a tender_a dexterous_a and_o simpathize_v be_v he_o he_o even_o excel_v in_o such_o cure_n to_o admiration_n he_o be_v a_o high_a priest_n that_o be_v holy_a harmless_a undefiled_a separate_a from_o sinner_n and_o high_a than_o the_o heaven_n he_o be_v holy_a and_o harmless_a himself_o he_o love_v these_o quality_n and_o be_v able_a and_o willing_a to_o work_v they_o in_o these_o that_o come_v to_o he_o and_o such_o a_o high_a priest_n become_v we_o he_o be_v one_o that_o have_v compassion_n on_o the_o ignorant_a and_o such_o as_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n who_o be_v in_o all_o point_v tempt_v as_o we_o yet_o without_o sin_n that_o he_o may_v from_o his_o own_o experience_n the_o more_o kind_o and_o strong_o sympathize_v with_o his_o people_n and_o succour_v they_o in_o all_o their_o temptation_n a_o high_a priest_n that_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o feel_n of_o their_o infirmity_n the_o a●king_n of_o the_o least_o finger_n or_o toe_n in_o his_o mystical_a body_n stound_n up_o as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o very_a heart_n of_o he_o who_o be_v the_o head_n thereof_o and_o chap._n 2._o it_o behove_v he_o to_o be_v make_v like_o to_o his_o brethren_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o merciful_a and_o faithful_a high_a priest_n etc._n etc._n 4_o the_o excellency_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o appear_v in_o this_o even_o in_o the_o exceed_a great_a freeness_n of_o his_o apply_v this_o cure_n there_o be_v no_o more_o require_v but_o to_o come_v and_o receive_v it_o to_o come_v however_o unclean_a and_o be_v sprinkle_v with_o his_o blood_n to_o confess_v the_o debt_n of_o guilt_n and_o draw_v out_o a_o extract_n of_o the_o discharge_n by_o virtue_n of_o his_o payment_n thereof_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o pollution_n in_o the_o conscience_n any_o challenge_n or_o sore_o whatever_o it_o be_v he_o furnish_v the_o remedy_n and_o cure_v free_o and_o frank_o now_o a_o word_n to_o the_o 2d_o thing_n viz._n the_o necessity_n of_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v if_o it_o be_v so_o as_o we_o have_v say_v if_o it_o be_v so_o virtuous_a and_o efficacious_a be_v there_o not_o here_o a_o encouragement_n for_o the_o guilty_a to_o flee_v to_o this_o blood_n and_o be_v there_o not_o a_o necessity_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o a_o very_a press_n and_o vehement_o urge_v necessity_n for_o as_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o the_o man_n slayer_n to_o stand_v with_o safety_n before_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n out_o of_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n so_o no_o more_o can_v the_o guilty_a sinner_n stand_v before_o his_o own_o conscience_n and_o far_o less_o before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n who_o be_v great_a than_o the_o conscience_n till_o this_o blood_n be_v flee_v unto_o and_o till_o he_o get_v his_o conscience_n sprinkle_v with_o it_o and_o therefore_o see_v you_o have_v conscience_n and_o guilty_a conscience_n many_o sin_n on_o your_o score_n and_o though_o the_o conscience_n now_o sleep_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o once_o awake_v and_o turn_v a_o hot_a and_o hard_o pursuer_fw-mi far_o beyond_o what_o ever_o any_o avenger_n of_o blood_n be_v and_o the_o long_o that_o it_o sleep_v it_o will_v pursue_v the_o hard_a and_o see_v christ_n jesus_n be_v as_o a_o city_n of_o refuge_n to_o who_o you_o may_v now_o flee_v and_o be_v sase_a consider_v o_o consider_v these_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o gentile_n act_n 13._o 38_o 39_o which_o we_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v over_o again_o to_o you_o be_v it_o know_v unto_o you_o man_n and_o brethren_n that_o through_o this_o man_n be_v preach_v unto_o you_o forgivenaess_a of_o sin_n and_o by_o he_o all_o that_o believe_v be_v justify_v from_o all_o thing_n from_o which_o you_o can_v not_o be_v justify_v by_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o it_o be_v the_o great_a end_n and_o design_n of_o the_o gospel_n ●o_o proclaim_v the_o mercat_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o make_v this_o offer_n unto_o you_o sinner_n free_o see_v i_o say_v all_o this_o be_v o_o takewith_o and_o be_v humble_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o your_o guilt_n from_o which_o you_o can_v be_v pessible_o deliver_v any_o other_o way_n and_o come_v forward_o and_o make_v use_n of_o it_o and_o be-think_a yourselves_o serious_o i_o beseech_v you_o if_o this_o day_n of_o salvation_n be_v sit_v and_o if_o this_o offer_n of_o grace_n be_v despise_v your_o conscience_n may_v and_o will_v certain_o waken_v upon_o you_o yea_o war_n upon_o you_o most_o terrible_o and_o you_o will_v never_o get_v it_o quiet_v but_o if_o you_o will_v now_o in_o time_n embrace_v and_o make_v use_n of_o the_o off●r_n we_o dare_v confident_o say_v to_o the_o commendation_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o precious_a blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o the_o sinner_n can_v never_o lay_v before_o christ_n that_o sin_n with_o what_o ever_o aggravation_n of_o it_o nor_o the_o disease_n how_o filthy_a and_o loathsome_a soever_o it_o be_v but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n apply_v by_o faith_n can_v abundant_o satisfy_v god_n justify_v for_o it_o and_o pacify_v and_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o the_o guilt_n and_o defilement_n of_o it_o and_o if_o god_n be_v pacify_v the_o conscience_n be_v his_o deputy_n there_fw-mi no_o more_o challenge_n and_o pursue_v to_o death_n no_o more_o than_o the_o avenger_n of_o blood_n can_v the_o manslayer_n when_o once_o get_v within_o the_o city_n of_o refuge_n or_o the_o destroy_a angel_n who_o smite_v all_o the_o first-born_a of_o egypt_n can_v or_o do_v destroy_v the_o israelit_n who_o house_n be_v be-sprinkled_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o passove_a lamb._n the_o 3d_o use_n be_v for_o strong_a consolation_n to_o believer_n in_o christ_n and_o it_o be_v threefold_a 1._o under_o the_o rise_n of_o a_o challenge_n when_o the_o conscience_n pursue_v because_o there_o be_v here_o a_o city_n of_o refuge_n to_o run_v unto_o a_o mediator_n for_o sinner_n a_o shield_n or_o targe_n to_o keep_v off_o such_o a_o da●_n and_o to_o quench_v or_o ward_v off_o the_o deadly_a wound_n of_o it_o let_v we_o make_v the_o supposition_n and_o blessed_v eterna_o be_v god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n it_o be_v but_o a_o supposition_n what_o if_o this_o have_v not_o be_v how_o dreadful_a will_v the_o very_a apprehension_n of_o a_o challenge_n let_v be_v of_o the_o vindictive_a wrath_n of_o god_n have_v be_v 2_o to_o the_o sinner_n that_o flee_v to_o this_o city_n there_o be_v strong_a consolation_n in_o this_o respect_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v make_v welcome_a and_o therefore_o the_o believer_n need_v not_o scar_n to_o make_v use_n of_o christ_n nor_o to_o come_v to_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o he_o wait_v for_o employment_n and_o its_o the_o more_o to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o exquisite_a skill_n the_o more_o be_v cleanse_v and_o cure_v by_o he_o through_o the_o virtue_n thereof_o you_o may_v therefore_o come_v and_o not_o only_o so_o but_z come_v with_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n of_o attain_v whatever_o you_o want_v and_o will_v have_v come_v therefore_o believer_n bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n that_o ●e_n may_v find_v mercy_n and_o obtain_v grace_n to_o help_v in_o time_n of_o need_n as_o on_o this_o ground_n the_o apostle_n exhort_v heb._n 4._o 3ly_n these_o that_o have_v flee_v to_o this_o city_n of_o refuge_n may_v quiet_v themselves_o they_o be_v at_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o with_o their_o own_o conscience_n their_o peace_n be_v as_o sure_a as_o god_n covenant_n that_o can_v be_v annul_v nor_o alter_v be_v and_o as_o christ_n purchase_n be_v of_o worth_n and_o efficacy_n if_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v firm_a and_o sure_a and_o if_o this_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v be_v of_o value_n and_o efficacy_n they_o have_v certain_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n and_o consolation_n and_o therefore_o we_o exhort_v believer_n in_o christ_n on_o all_o occasion_n to_o flee_v to_o this_o city_n to_o renew_v your_o application_n by_o faith_n to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o after_o every_o defilement_n to_o be-sprinkle_a your_o conscience_n with_o this_o blood_n and_o then_o comfort_v yourselves_o in_o it_o and_o bless_v god_n who_o allow_v such_o large_a and_o strong_a consolation_n on_o you_o and_o the_o mediator_n who_o have_v purchase_v it_o for_o you_o by_o