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Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
conscience_n sin_n soul_n wound_v 2,163 5 9.3309 5 true
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A37045 Heaven upon earth in the serene tranquillity and calm composure, in the sweet peace and solid joy of a good conscience sprinkled with the blood of Jesus and exercised always to be void of offence toward God and toward men : brought down and holden forth in XXII very searching sermons on several texts of Scripture ... / by James Durham. Durham, James, 1622-1658.; J. C. 1685 (1685) Wing D2815; ESTC R24930 306,755 418

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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
main_o lean_a and_o the_o very_a hinge_n on_o which_o it_o be_v main_o turn_v as_o be_v the_o great_a evidence_n of_o sincerity_n we_o shall_v yet_o premit_fw-la some_o thing_n further_o for_o clear_v of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v confirm_v it_o which_o be_v in_o substance_n and_o in_o short_a this_o that_o a_o man_n who_o have_v a_o universal_a willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o may_v have_v calmness_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n though_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n in_o his_o life_n for_o which_o he_o may_v very_o just_o censure_v himself_o first_o then_o let_v it_o be_v premit_v that_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o this_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n flow_v from_o the_o universal_a honesty_n of_o a_o person_n life_n and_o walk_n we_o mean_v nor_o 1._o such_o a_o perfection_n of_o calmness_n and_o tranquillity_n as_o may_v stand_v before_o god_n judgment-seat_n for_o though_o we_o be_v in_o case_n to_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o that_o we_o know_v nothing_o by_o ourselves_o yet_o be_v we_o not_o thereby_o justify_v but_o be_v that_o judge_v we_o be_v the_o lord_n who_o be_v great_a than_o our_o conscience_n and_o see_v many_o thing_n in_o we_o that_o we_o see_v not selve_o who_o ever_o therefore_o suppose_v such_o a_o perfection_n can_v never_o have_v calmness_n of_o conscience_n while_o he_o live_v in_o the_o world_n 2_o nor_o be_v this_o such_o a_o calmness_n as_o prevent_v all_o challenge_n a_o man_n may_v have_v challenge_n of_o conscience_n and_o yet_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n neither_o 3ly_a be_v it_o such_o a_o calmness_n as_o under_o it_o believer_n have_v no_o ground_n for_o nor_o use_v of_o repentance_n and_o humiliation_n nay_o repenis_fw-la not_o only_o consistent_a with_o this_o calmness_n but_o it_o be_v a_o notable_a mean_n of_o it_o and_o a_o main_a ingredient_n in_o it_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n whereby_o in_o part_n it_o be_v both_o attain_v and_o entertain_v the_o kindly_a gospel-exercise_n of_o repentance_n for_o sin_n will_v not_o break_v our_o peace_n but_o very_o ready_o vacation_n from_o this_o exercise_n will_v do_v it_o to_o purpose_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v careful_o distinguish_v betwixt_o repentance_n humiliation_n and_o self-loathing_a for_o sin_n and_o the_o mar_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o our_o conscience_n yea_o there_o may_v be_v much_o exercise_n wrestle_v and_o fight_v inward_o in_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o yet_o considerable_a calmness_n of_o conscience_n in_o that_o same_o condition_n for_o that_o which_o give_v peace_n be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o want_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o mind_n as_o a_o suitable_a behaviour_n under_o that_o exercise_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o apostle_n paul_n who_o though_o he_o be_v deep_o exercise_v and_o sore_o combat_v with_o the_o remainder_n of_o a_o body_n of_o death_n within_o he_o as_o he_o give_v a_o lament_a account_n rom._n 7._o yet_o he_o be_v the_o man_n here_o who_o have_v this_o calmness_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o we_o premit_fw-la that_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n consist_v with_o challenge_n and_o repentance_n and_o with_o deep_a inward_a exercise_n may_v be_v first_o where_o there_o be_v no_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n though_o i_o grant_v there_o must_v be_v no_o low_o nor_o less_o design_n than_o perfection_n because_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o sojourn_v saint_n of_o who_o we_o mean_v all_o along_o be_v most_o found_v on_o sincere_a and_o serious_a endeavour_n to_o attain_v it_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v phil._n 3._o 12_o 13._o not_o as_o though_o i_o have_v already_o attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfect_a viz._n in_o holiness_n but_o i_o follow_v after_o etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o vers_fw-la 15._o he_o assert_v a_o perfection_n there_o be_v not_o a_o attain_n of_o perfection_n as_o to_o degree_n and_o yet_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n in_o respect_n of_o part_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o sincere_a endeavour_n and_o press_v to_o be_v at_o perfection_n 2._o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n that_o we_o speak_v of_o may_v consist_v with_o the_o indwel_n of_o corruption_n though_o not_o with_o the_o reign_n and_o dominion_n of_o it_o i_o say_v with_o the_o indwel_n of_o corruption_n where_o the_o stir_n and_o act_n of_o it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v protest_v against_o groan_v under_o and_o oppose_v as_o it_o be_v with_o this_o apostle_n rom._n 7._o who_o notwithstanding_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n yet_o maintain_v his_o peace_n because_o this_o peace_n be_v ground_v not_o so_o much_o on_o the_o entire_a and_o absolute_a victory_n over_o corruption_n as_o on_o a_o real_a hatred_n of_o a_o real_a enmity_n at_o and_o a_o real_a fight_v against_o it_o 3._o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n may_v consist_v not_o only_o with_o corruption_n indwell_v but_o sometime_o with_o the_o prevail_a and_o captivate_a power_n of_o corruption_n which_o be_v also_o clear_a from_o rom._n 7_o where_o the_o law_n that_o be_v in_o the_o apostle_n member_n prevail_v so_o far_o against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n that_o it_o lead_v he_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o his_o member_n and_o yet_o he_o have_v peace_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o this_o peace_n do_v not_o only_o flow_v from_o the_o event_n of_o the_o wrestle_n or_o fight_n but_o also_o from_o the_o christian_n not_o yield_v in_o the_o fight_n though_o he_o be_v captivat_fw-la and_o from_o his_o enter_v as_o it_o be_v a_o dissent_n from_o and_o protestation_n against_o the_o captivate_a power_n of_o corruption_n therefore_o say_v he_o the_o thing_n i_o do_v i_o allow_v not_o and_o it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o that_o do_v it_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o not_o but_o it_o be_v he_o that_o sin_v but_o he_o allow_v it_o not_o nay_o as_o i_o say_v he_o protest_v against_o the_o prevailling_a of_o sin_n in_o himself_o therefore_o the_o word_n in_o the_o original_a be_v the_o thing_n i_o do_v i_o know_v not_o that_o be_v i_o will_v not_o in_o some_o respect_n own_o it_o for_o my_o deed_n and_o on_o this_o ground_n he_o maintain_v his_o peace_n and_o from_o it_o draw_v his_o consolation_n rom._n 8._o 1._o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o ●o_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 for_o though_o sometime_o the_o flesh_n may_v prevail_v yet_o say_v he_o we_o walk_v not_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o flesh_n but_o we_o endeavour_v though_o we_o come_v not_o up_o to_o perfection_n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n principles_n and_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n 3_o we_o premit_fw-la that_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n may_v consist_v with_o many_o defect_n infirmity_n and_o sailing_n yet_o we_o will_v beware_v of_o and_o watchful_o guard_v against_o two_o sort_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o it_o 1._o conscience_n wasting-sin_n that_o raise_v a_o storm_n and_o tempest_n in_o the_o conscience_n such_o as_o be_v david_n adultery_n and_o murder_n peter_n denial_n of_o his_o master_n and_o the_o like_a which_o though_o they_o may_v consist_v with_o a_o interest_n in_o god_n stand_v still_o inviolated_a and_o not_o null_v and_o though_o peace_n may_v be_v recover_v by_o the_o renew_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o of_o faith_n towards_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yet_o for_o the_o time_n of_o the_o prevail_a of_o such_o sin_n and_o before_o such_o exercise_n of_o ●aith_n and_o repentance_n they_o be_v to_o the_o believer_n conscience_n as_o boisterous_a wind_n be_v to_o the_o sea_n we_o do_v not_o therefore_o admit_v of_o all_o sort_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v consistent_a with_o this_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n but_o such_o only_a as_o be_v sin_n of_o more_o ordinary_a infirmity_n against_o the_o soul_n actual_a dissent_n and_o protestation_n to_o the_o contrary_n 2._o we_o will_v beware_v of_o such_o aggravation_n of_o sin_n that_o make_v little_a sin_n little_a i_o mean_v comparative_o to_o become_v great_a sin_n a_o man_n may_v be_v captivat_fw-la by_o some_o sin_n and_o yet_o retain_v peace_n and_o yet_o these_o same_o sin_n in_o another_o person_n by_o reason_n of_o some_o grievous_o aggravate_v circumstance_n as_o if_o they_o be_v commit_v deliberate_o and_o out_o over_o the_o belly_n of_o light_n and_o of_o check_n and_o challenge_n may_v much_o waste_v his_o conscience_n and_o great_o wound_v and_o mar_v his_o peace_n in_o this_o respect_n i_o say_v though_o the_o sin_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n may_v be_v lesser_a yet_o it_o be_v greatn_v by_o these_o and_o such_o other_o aggravation_n they_o be_v strict_o and_o proper_o sin_n of_o infirmity_n that_o the_o believer_n do_v not_o consent_n to_o
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
we_o will_v careful_o advert_v that_o we_o adventure_v not_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n with_o a_o unclear_a he_o sitant_n and_o doubt_a conscience_n since_o it_o be_v impossible_a in_o this_o case_n to_o do_v without_o sin_n and_o hazard_v of_o damnation_n the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v positive_o and_o plain_o tell_v we_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v in_o faith_n be_v sin_n rome_n 14_o v._n last_o that_o be_v not_o only_a whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v by_o a_o person_n in_o a_o state_n of_o faith_n without_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n be_v sin_n but_o also_o &_o most_o agreeable_o to_o the_o scope_n whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v in_o the_o faith_n &_o persuasion_n of_o the_o warrantablenesse_n theros_n be_v so_o and_o that_o he_o who_o thus_o doubt_o and_o without_o such_o faith_n and_o persuasion_n eat_v o●_n do_v be_v damn_v or_o judge_v ibid._n it_o will_v not_o assoil_v the_o doer_n doubt_o or_o the_o doubt_a doer_n from_o sin_n and_o judgement_n to_o tell_v he_o that_o his_o conscience_n be_v in_o a_o error_n and_o that_o he_o be_v not_o to_o regard_v what_o his_o erroniou_n conscience_n dictate_v to_o he_o but_o to_o act_v contrary_a to_o it_o i_o ●s_v ●ue_v indeed_o that_o a_o err_a conscience_n do_v not_o oblige_v a_o man_n to_o act_v according_a to_o its_o blind_a and_o erroneous_a dictate_v for_o a_o man_n never_o be_v neither_o can_v be_v oblige_v to_o sin_n he_o be_v rather_o bind_v to_o endeavour_v in_o god_n way_n to_o have_v his_o conscience_n when_o in_o a_o error_n un_fw-fr deceive_v and_o well_o inform_v and_o so_o to_o lay_v aside_o his_o error_n but_o yet_o while_o his_o conscience_n still_o continue_v in_o its_o error_n and_o come_v not_o to_o be_v inform_v aright_o the_o man_n be_v bind_v up_o so_o that_o he_o can_v without_o sin_n counteract_v the_o dictate_v of_o his_o err_a conscience_n which_o be_v not_o for_o the_o time_n apprehend_v by_o he_o to_o be_v in_o a_o error_n neither_o will_v it_o relieve_v the_o m●n_z who_o conscience_n doubt_v of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o do_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o tell_v he_o that_o more_o know_v and_o conscientious_a more_o prudent_a and_o pious_a man_n than_o he_o be_v free_a and_o clear_a for_o the_o thing_n whereof_o he_o doubt_v for_o other_o man_n conscience_n can_v be_v no_o rule_n to_o he_o unless_o he_o be_v persuade_v of_o their_o infallibility_n and_o that_o their_o conscience_n can_v not_o be_v take_v with_o any_o error_n or_o mistake_n god_n have_v put_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o man_n as_o his_o deputy_n to_o who_o dictate_v he_o be_v careful_o to_o take_v heed_n and_o have_v not_o make_v the_o conscience_n of_o any_o one_o man_n or_o society_n of_o man_n his_o depute_v over_o all_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o man_n i_o shall_v easy_o grant_v that_o when_o the_o conscience_n of_o more_o know_v more_o tender_a and_o more_o conscientious_a man_n than_o myself_o dictat_fw-la to_o they_o the_o warrantablenesse_n of_o such_o and_o such_o a_o practice_n i_o be_o call_v to_o be_v holy_o jealous_a over_o and_o suspicious_a of_o my_o sel●_n impartial_o to_o examine_v the_o reason_n of_o their_o clearness_n and_o on_o that_o occasion_n to_o search_v very_o scrutinous_o narrow_o and_o exact_o into_o the_o ground_n of_o my_o own_o unclearnesse_n hesitation_n and_o doubt_v and_o to_o be_v much_o and_o earnest_a in_o prayer_n to_o god_n with_o unbiased_a singleness_n and_o sincerity_n for_o send_v forth_o his_o light_n &_o truth_n to_o guide_v &_o lead_v i_o but_o if_o no_o withstand_v all_o this_o my_o doubt_n still_o remain_v and_o it_o may_v be_v also_o that_o there_o be_v several_a other_o godly_a and_o judicious_a person_n that_o be_v doubtful_a and_o unclear_a with_o i_o i_o can_v in_o that_o case_n warrantable_o give_v up_o myself_o to_o be_v implicit_o determine_v by_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o whatever_o their_o qualification_n be_v or_o whatever_o my_o veneration_n may_v be_v for_o they_o nor_o be_o i_o bind_v to_o act_v myself_o with_o a_o doubt_a conscience_n since_o i_o be_o express_o fold_n by_o the_o infallible_a scripture_n of_o truth_n that_o i_o can_v act_v in_o that_o case_n without_o sin_n and_o without_o incur_v the_o hazard_n of_o damnation_n and_o that_o no_o man_n can_v keep_v i_o harmless_a in_o do_v so_o since_o every_o man_n must_v give_v a_o account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n and_o if_o i_o shall_v do_v one_o thing_n with_o a_o doubt_a conscience_n because_o 〈◊〉_d may_v be_v mistake_v and_o in_o a_o error_n or_o because_o such_o and_o such_o godly_a and_o know_a person_n be_v free_a for_o it_o what_o a_o wide_a door_n will_v this_o open_v why_o may_v i_o not_o do_v another_o thing_n of_o great_a moment_n doubt_o and_o another_o after_o that_o and_o three_o after_o that_o where_o shall_v i_o stay_v or_o stop_v and_o when_o shall_v there_o be_v a_o end_n of_o such_o conscience_n doubt_v action_n especial_o in_o time_n wherein_o trouble_n and_o tentation_n snare_n and_o offence_n do_v abound_v ●_o wherein_o as_o there_o have_v be_v so_o there_o will_v ready_o still_o be_v different_a sentiment_n and_o apprehension_n as_o to_o some_o lesser_a and_o low_a truth_n further_o remove_v from_o the_o fundamental_o of_o religion_n where_o about_o all_o be_v agree_v and_o so_o proportionable_o as_o to_o 〈◊〉_d practice_n among●_n even_o true_o godly_a man_n it_o not_o be_v to_o be_v suppose_v that_o while_n saint_n so_o journ_v and_o be_v militant_a here_o on_o earth_n the_o intellectual_n of_o all_o of_o they_o will_v be_v of_o the_o same_o size_n or_o cast_v into_o the_o same_o mould_n that_o their_o light_n will_v be_v of_o the_o same_o clearness_n and_o that_o they_o will_v be_v all_o of_o equal_a mortification_n self-denyednesse_a tenderness_n un●hy_a affedness_n fingleness_n holy_a zeal_n resolution_n courage_n and_o boldness_n which_o as_o it_o say_v that_o there_o will_v be_v more_o clearness_n and_o more_o darkness_n and_o doubt_v among_o they_o at_o least_o as_o to_o some_o remote_a thing_n so_o it_o speak_v the_o necessity_n of_o mutual_a christian_a for_o bearance_n compassion_n and_o sympathy_n and_o it_o have_v be_v a_o very_a general_o receive_v maxim_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n that_o in_o dubiis_fw-la tu●ius_fw-la ist_fw-mi abstinere_fw-la in_o thing_n that_o be_v doubtful_a at_o least_o as_o to_o their_o very_a substance_n to_o say_v so_o and_o not_o only_o as_o to_o somewhat_o extrinsic_a to_o they_o i●s_v safe_a to_o abstain_v eight_o we_o will_v in_o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v clear_v ourselves_o and_o full_o persuade_v of_o our_o own_o christian_a liberty_n be_v very_o tender_a of_o the_o conscience_n of_o other_o who_o may_v in_o that_o respect_n he_o more_o weak_a and_o not_o so_o full_o clear_a and_o persuade_v about_o they_o lest_o we_o offend_v and_o wound_v their_o conscience_n and_o so_o indirect_o consequent_o and_o by_o the_o rebound_n offend_v &_o wound_v ou●_n ow._n conscience_n here_o the_o apostle_n direction_n assertion_n precept_n and_o practice_n rom._n 14._o 1_o cor._n 8._o 9_o and_o 10._o chapter_n be_v singular_o useful_a admirable_o apposite_a and_o excellent_a o_o that_o the_o apostolic_a primitive_a christian_n amiable_a tenderness_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o offence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o thing_n indifferent_a be_v bring_v back_o to_o and_o revive_v in_o this_o much_o decline_v and_o degenerate_v generation_n wherein_o offence_n abound_v and_o the_o love_n of_o many_o wax_v cold_a and_o wherein_o there_o be_v a_o great_a propension_n and_o readiness_n untender_o and_o uncharitable_o to_o give_v and_o to_o take_v offence_n i_o do_v not_o by_o this_o in_o the_o least_o insinuat_fw-la that_o for_o prevent_v the_o offence_n or_o rather_o displeasure_n of_o any_o we_o may_v warrantable_o do_v or_o forbear_v any_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v command_v or_o prohibit_v the_o do_v of_o or_o that_o we_o shall_v or_o may_v run_v cross_a to_o the_o dictate_v of_o our_o own_o conscience_n or_o do_v any_o thing_n with_o a_o unclear_a and_o doubt_a conscience_n which_o be_v always_o sin_n and_o therefore_o never_o ●o_o be_v adventure_v on_o offend_v and_o be_v displease_v who_o will_v though_o even_o in_o that_o case_n their_o offence_n shall_v be_v a_o grief_n to_o we_o as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o apostle_n who_o exercise_n it_o be_v to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n who_o say_v who_o be_v offend_v and_o i_o burn_v not_o nine_o we_o will_v take_v heed_n to_o and_o be_v aware_a of_o pretend_v conscience_n in_o any_o thing_n about_o which_o we_o have_v no_o real_a exercise_n doubt_v or_o scruple_n of_o conscience_n as_o for_o instance_n in_o the_o first_o place_n if_o professor_n of_o religion_n shall_v pretend_v
the_o blame_v be_v lay_v on_o conscience_n as_o conscience_n what_o evil_a have_v innocent_a conscience_n do_v the_o general_a great_a advantage_n that_o come_v to_o the_o world_n with_o the_o many_o mischief_n that_o be_v keep_v of_o it_o by_o conscience_n be_v infinite_o great_a and_o more_o valuable_a than_o any_o little_a prejudices_fw-la and_o disadvantage_n that_o now_o and_o then_o here_o and_o there_o come_v by_o the_o ill_a inform_v turbulent_n conscience_n of_o some_o particular_a person_n neither_o will_v i_o altogether_o deny_v but_o the_o tender_a conscience_n of_o true_o godly_a man_n may_v sometime_o dispose_v they_o to_o jealous_a and_o suspect_v themselves_o where_o they_o be_v not_o indeed_o guilty_a as_o it_o do_v the_o eleven_o honest_a disciple_n when_o the_o lord_n tell_v they_o that_o one_o of_o the_o twelve_o shall_v betray_v he_o and_o through_o some_o weakness_n may_v now_o and_o then_o disquiet_a and_o give_v they_o the_o alarm_n when_o there_o be_v little_a or_o no_o ground_n for_o it_o but_o i_o must_v say_v that_o this_o may_v be_v very_o easy_o dispense_v and_o bear_v with_o since_o that_o little_a damnage_n if_o it_o may_v be_v call_v so_o will_v be_v easy_o and_o quick_o compense_v by_o its_o give_v the_o alarm_n and_o cause_v suitable_a disquiet_n when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o here_o a_o tender_a conscience_n may_v be_v resemble_v to_o a_o vigilant_a and_o strict_a sentinal_n set_v to_o watch_v a_o house_n lie_v in_o midst_n of_o thief_n and_o robber_n who_o will_v sometime_o on_o a_o mistake_n awake_a and_o alarm_n and_o it_o may_v be_v at_o midnight_n raise_v all_o the_o family_n and_o put_v they_o into_o some_o fright_n as_o if_o thief_n and_o robber_n be_v break_v in_o upon_o they_o but_o they_o think_v the_o less_o of_o this_o and_o bea●_n the_o better_a with_o it_o a●_n be_v sure_o that_o when_o the_o thief_n or_o robber_n come_v in_o very_a deed_n he_o will_v give_v they_o the_o alarm_n and_o there_o be_v very_o few_o or_o none_o that_o will_v not_o far_o rather_o chu●e_a to_o have_v one_o or_o two_o yea_o several_a false_a alarm_n though_o somewhat_o disquiet_v then_o to_o want_v a_o true_a one_o when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o and_o when_o by_o mean_n thereof_o they_o may_v prevent_v the_o cut_n of_o their_o throat_n or_o spoil_v of_o their_o good_n let_v then_o the_o conscience_n be_v well_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n let_v its_o dictate_v according_a thereunto_o be_v tender_o comply_v with_o and_o none_o of_o they_o counteracted_a and_o let_v its_o check_n challenge_n accusation_n with_o its_o answer_n testimony_n and_o excuse_n according_a to_o their_o respective_a ground_n and_o reason_n be_v careful_o listen_v to_o and_o admit_v in_o a_o word_n let_v all_o study_v once_o to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o be_v always_o exercise_v to_o keep_v it_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n and_o then_o great_a honour_n and_o glory_n will_v redound_v to_o god_n the_o lord_n and_o sovereign_n of_o the_o conscience_n suitable_a and_o due_a deference_n will_v be_v give_v to_o his_o word_n as_o that_o whereby_o the_o conscience_n be_v right_o inform_v the_o peace_n of_o man_n own_o conscience_n will_v flow_v as_o a_o river_n the_o offend_a and_o stumble_v of_o other_o will_v be_v much_o prevent_v the_o profession_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n will_v be_v much_o adorn_v and_o beautify_v and_o man_n of_o all_o rank_n station_n capacity_n and_o relation_n as_o magistrate_n and_o subject_n pastor_n and_o flock_n husband_n and_o wife_n parent_n and_o child_n master_n and_o servant_n teacher_n and_o scholar_n buyer_n and_o seller_n etc._n etc._n will_v be_v blessing_n from_o god_n one_o to_o another_o which_o will_v make_v a_o little_a heaven_n upon_o earth_n to_o all_o which_o these_o few_o excellent_a se●mons_n be_v singular_o contributive_a that_o they_o may_v therefore_o come_v with_o a_o special_a blessing_n to_o all_o the_o reader_n of_o they_o and_o more_o particular_o to_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o city_n of_o glass_n gow_n where_o they_o be_v preach_v many_o year_n ago_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o novemb_n 1._o 1684._o your_o servant_n in_o the_o gospel_n 1._o c._n in_o the_o epistle_n page_n 5._o l._n 4_o r._n renew_v p._n 20._o l._n 29._o r._n r●epresentces_n p._n 20._o l._n 6._o 1._o 1_o tim._n l._n last_o r._n professor_n p._n 22._o l._n 6._o r._n upon_o the_o conscience_n heaven_n upon_o earth_n in_o a_o serene_a and_o smile_v good_a conscience_n sermon_n i._n act_n 24._o vers._n 16._o and_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o singular_o good_a companion_n the_o worth_n and_o benefit_n whereof_o be_v not_o ready_o so_o well_o know_v till_o man_n be_v bring_v into_o some_o strait_n then_o indeed_o the_o pass_a great_a and_o singular_a worth_n and_o usefulness_n of_o it_o clear_o discover_v itself_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n case_n here_o who_o be_v arraign_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o a_o heathen_a judge_n and_o have_v many_o enemy_n and_o these_o too_o of_o his_o own_o nation_n have_v deliver_v he_o up_o among_o other_o ground_n of_o consolation_n and_o defence_n that_o he_o have_v to_o sustain_v himself_o by_o this_o be_v one_o and_o not_o the_o least_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d do_v bear_v he_o witness_v that_o it_o be_v his_o endeavour_n and_o work_v to_o live_v so_o before_o god_n and_o man_n that_o he_o may_v not_o have_v a_o challenge_n from_o it_o and_o this_o make_v he_o speak_v bold_o against_o all_o his_o accuser_n and_o be_v better_a to_o he_o and_o more_o valueable_a than_o all_o the_o argument_n and_o rhetorical_a discourse_n that_o a_o tertullus_n yea_o a_o tully_n or_o the_o most_o eloquent_a orator_n in_o the_o world_n can_v have_v use_v for_o he_o these_o word_n hold_v out_o a_o compend_n and_o sum_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n and_o a_o excellent_a partern_a for_o believer_n herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o etc._n etc._n where_o we_o have_v these_o three_o thing_n considerable_a first_o the_o apostle_n great_a design_n and_o aim_n viz._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n that_o he_o may_v so_o walk_v as_o never_o to_o offend_v his_o conscience_n nor_o to_o give_v it_o a_o ill_a report_n to_o make_v of_o he_o second_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o design_n and_o aim_n and_o that_o ●n_o a_o twofold_a respect_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o object_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n i._o ●_o he_o will_v do_v duty_n to_o both_o and_o be_v find_v without_o offence_n to_o either_o 2._o in_o respect_n of_o all_o action_n company_n place_n and_o time_n he_o be_v so_o exercise_v always_o not_o after_o a_o sermon_n or_o communion_n only_o not_o under_o some_o heavy_a cross_n or_o after_o some_o notable_a outgate_n and_o delivery_n only_o but_o he_o aim_v design_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v so_o constant_o and_o equal_o thirldy_a the_o manner_n of_o his_o go_v about_o this_o herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o i._n e._n it_o be_v a_o business_n that_o take_v he_o up_o and_o hold_v he_o serious_o at_o work_n he_o be_v as_o a_o man_n who_o fight_v for_o his_o life_n in_o a_o barras_n or_o at_o a_o single_a combat_n careful_o handle_v his_o arm_n even_o so_o do_v he_o carry_v and_o behave_v himself_o in_o all_o thing_n as_o if_o his_o life_n have_v stand_v on_o every_o action_n or_o word_n i_o shall_v at_o once_o and_o together_o propose_v several_a doctrine_n clear_o deducible_a from_o the_o text_n the_o prosecution_n whereof_o will_v help_v to_o clear_v both_o the_o word_n and_o the_o matter_n contain_v in_o they_o the_o first_o whereof_o be_v there_o be_v many_o sort_n of_o offence_n both_o towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n that_o we_o be_v subject_a an●_n liable_a to_o the_o second_o be_v there_o be_v within_o every_o man_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o affect_v the_o man_n for_o it_o the_o three_o be_v whatever_o thing_n be_v offence_n towards_o god_n or_o man_n be_v also_o offensive_a to_o the_o conscience_n whatever_o sin_n strike_v against_o his_o law_n wound_v the_o conscience_n the_o four_o be_v it_o be_v a_o very_a good_a choice_n and_o excellent_a thing_n for_o a_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n always_o void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v a_o very_a ill_a thing_n at_o any_o time_n to_o have_v offence_n towards_o either_o of_o they_o lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n the_o five_o be_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o
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
which_o especial_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n hinder_v a_o man_n to_o use_v his_o liberty_n as_o rom._n 14._o 2._o one_o believe_v that_o he_o may_v eat_v all_o thing_n another_o that_o be_v weak_a eat_v herb_n he_o will_v not_o take_v the_o liberty_n that_o god_n allow_v he_o as_o it_o be_v with_o many_o in_o the_o primo_fw-la primitive_a time_n who_o think_v not_o all_o mea●s_n to_o be_v a_o like_a lawful_a as_o to_o their_o use_n though_o this_o sort_n of_o conscience_n shall_v be_v inform_v in_o order_n to_o its_o be_v bring_v up_o to_o the_o use_n of_o its_o lawful_a liberty_n yet_o while_o it_o be_v infirm_a and_o have_v not_o clearness_n in_o the_o thing_n it_o ought_v to_o lay_v on_o band_n for_o abstention_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 8._o and_o last_o if_o meat_n make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v i_o will_v not_o eat_v flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v lest_o i_o make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v because_o by_o the_o example_n of_o his_o eat_n as_o he_o say_v before_o his_o weak_a brother_n be_v embolden_v to_o eat_v also_o and_o so_o his_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v wound_v all_o which_o say_v that_o we_o ought_v to_o study_v to_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o conscience_n may_v be_v right_o inform_v thereby_o second_o there_o be_v other_o five_o sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o fail_v in_o practice_n or_o application_n of_o the_o rule_n which_o ought_v no_o more_o to_o be_v lay_v weight_n upon_o in_o practice_n then_o the_o former_a the_o 1._o be_v a_o too_o narrow_a conscience_n that_o challenge_v too_o soon_o with_o which_o many_o in_o these_o day_n be_v not_o much_o trouble_v but_o rather_o run_v on_o the_o contrary_a extremity_n as_o when_o a_o man_n light_n be_v not_o clear_a in_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v indifferent_a as_o the_o weak_a conscience_n be_v wound_v for_o eat_v a_o little_a flesh_n thus_o one_fw-mi infirm_a conscience_n will_v ready_o challenge_v and_o heighten_v a_o si●_n without_o ground_n which_o be_v especial_o to_o be_v find_v among_o new_a beginner_n who_o use_v to_o have_v a_o number_n of_o challenge_n for_o this_o and_o that_o which_o yet_o can_v well_o abide_v the_o trial_n several_a particular_n may_v be_v instance_a in_o as_o they_o will_v be_v sometime_o challenge_v and_o disquiet_v for_o come_v into_o such_o a_o company_n which_o yet_o 〈◊〉_d may_v have_v do_v warrantable_o for_o not_o speak_v when_o possible_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o hold_v their_o tongue_n ●or_a speak_n when_o yet_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o speak_v for_o take_v so_o much_o meat_n and_o drink_n which_o yet_o be_v but_o sufficient_a for_o the_o sustentation_n of_o nature_n though_o they_o question_v not_o such_o 〈◊〉_d and_o drink_n to_o be_v lawful_a for_o the_o kind_n yet_o they_o be_v challenge_v and_o trouble_v without_o ground_n as_o to_o the_o measure_n and_o quantity_n 2._o a_o too_o large_a and_o gross_a conscience_n which_o we_o fear_v be_v the_o ●orest_n and_o rife_a sickness_n among_o conscience_n a_o conscience_n that_o can_v easy_o digest_v many_o thing_n which_o be_v lay_v to_o the_o rule_n will_v be_v find_v sinful_a a_o gross_a conscience_n be_v opposite_a to_o tenderness_n and_o can_v hear_v of_o sin_n threaten_v without_o fear_n which_o it_o be_v lie_v under_o it_o stand_v not_o on_o the_o offence_n of_o other_o as_o in_o corinth_n there_o be_v some_o that_o go_v on_o in_o the_o use_n of_o their_o liberty_n without_o regard_n of_o their_o weak_a brethren_n not_o care_v whether_o they_o offend_v they_o or_o not_o it_o regard_v not_o other_o folk_n conscience_n in_o indifferent_a thing_n it_o will_v not_o only_o confident_o come_v near_o to_o ill_a but_o hazard_v on_o ill_o whereas_o all_o appearance_n of_o evil_n shall_v be_v abstain_v from_o it_o be_v a_o narrow_a conscience_n abide_v over_o far_o a_o back_n so_o a_o gross_a conscience_n come_v over_o near_o it_o will_v put_v person_n to_o eat_v to_o drink_v and_o to_o be_v clothe_v too_o liberal_o prodigal_o and_o vain_o because_o these_o thing_n be_v la●ful_a the_o follow_v 3d_o four_o 5_o sort_v of_o conscience_n be_v degree_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o kind_n some_o whereof_o be_v incident_a to_o believer_n some_o not_o the_o 3d_o be_v a_o sleepy_a conscience_n such_o as_o be_v in_o david_n in_o a_o great_a measure_n when_o he_o ●ell_o in_o adultery_n murder_n and_o in_o the_o sin_n of_o vain_a number_v the_o people_n opposite_a to_o this_o be_v a_o waken_a conscience_n that_o cry_v loud_a and_o knock_v hard_a the_o more_o sleepy_a and_o drowsy_a that_o conscience_n have_v be_v it_o rap_v the_o loud_a and_o hard_o when_o it_o be_v waken_v therefore_o man_n have_v need_v to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o awar_n of_o the_o f●rmer_a gross_a conscience_n that_o it_o draw_v not_o on_o a_o sleepy_a conscience_n and_o when_o conscience_n speak_v not_o but_o be_v silent_a now_o know_v that_o for_o the_o time_n there_o be_v ground_n to_o fear_v its_o be_v fall_v a_o sleep_n a_o four_o sort_n be_v a_o harden_a conscience_n which_o be_v when_o not_o only_o the_o conscience_n be_v sleep_v but_o the_o life_n be_v much_o put_v out_o of_o it_o by_o habitual_a sin_v and_o when_o man_n thus_o put_v out_o the_o light_n and_o life_n of_o their_o conscience_n by_o sin_v god_n be_v provoke_v to_o put_v it_o out_o by_o judicial_a harden_v as_o we_o see_v in_o pharaoh_n that_o no_o challenge_n bit_n on_o they_o there_o be_v lesser_a measure_n and_o low_a degree_n of_o this_o that_o be_v incident_a even_o to_o the_o godly_a and_o not_o only_o to_o several_a reprobat_n which_o come_v not_o to_o pharaoh_n his_o height_n a_o 5_o sort_v it_o a_o cauterised_a conscience_n that_o be_v say_v in_o the_o scripture_n to_o be_v sea●ed_v as_o with_o a_o hot_a iron_n this_o harden_v in_o a_o very_a high_a degree_n when_o a_o man_n run_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o his_o conscience_n trample_v on_o it_o and_o do_v all_o in_o a_o manner_n that_o he_o can_v to_o make_v it_o senseless_a and_o benumn●d_a so_o that_o he_o be_v no_o more_o sensible_a of_o a_o prick_n from_o it_o then_o dead_a flesh_n be_v of_o the_o thirst_n of_o a_o pin_n or_o of_o a_o knife_n habitual_a sin_v and_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n join_v together_o bring_v on_o this_o which_o be_v call_v rom._n 1._o 28_o give_v up_o to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n so_o that_o as_o it_o be_v 32._o though_o they_o know_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o who_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n yet_o 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 it_o be_v not_o of_o these_o conscience_n that_o we_o mean_v when_o we_o say_v that_o you_o shall_v so_o walk_v as_o you_o give_v not_o offence_n to_o your_o conscience_n in_o any_o thing_n the_o conscience_n of_o many_o speak_v but_o alace_o they_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o therefore_o take_v every_o sort_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o word_n and_o suspect_v that_o conscience_n that_o be_v silent_a when_o the_o word_n speak_v a_o four_o question_n be_v whether_o a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o err_a conscience_n may_v not_o have_v peace_n and_o quietness_n if_o so_o how_o may_v that_o peace_n and_o quietness_n be_v discern_v from_o true_a peace_n of_o conscience_n where_o also_o the_o 5_o question_n be_v somewhat_o at_o least_o indirect_o touch_v on_o answer_v a_o conscience_n may_v be_v please_v while_o it_o be_v err_v and_o in_o a_o wrong_a course_n but_o it_o can_v have_v true_a peace_n even_o as_o we_o may_v please_v our_o brother_n when_o we_o flatter_v he_o in_o his_o sin_n and_o please_v he_o not_o to_o his_o edification_n so_o a_o man_n may_v have_v not_o only_a quietness_n but_o a_o sort_n of_o delight_n and_o sainness_n in_o a_o err_a conscience_n but_o no_o true_a peace_n because_o it_o want_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o its_o ground_n even_o as_o a_o harden_a conscience_n may_v have_v quierness_n and_o yet_o want_v true_a solid_a peace_n as_o when_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v or_o in_o a_o error_n and_o agree_v well_o with_o the_o mistake_n or_o error_n it_o will_v be_v well_o please_v so_o when_o it_o be_v humour_v and_o applaud_v it_o be_v well_o please_v and_o will_v make_v the_o man_n think_v that_o he_o do_v god_n good_a service_n while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o be_v do_v nothing_o less_o yea_o it_o will_v have_v a_o sort_n of_o delight_n and_o fainness_n flow_v from_o the_o delusion_n of_o its_o light_n and_o will_v make_v the_o poor_a man_n to_o be_v well_o please_v and_o satisfy_v when_o he_o get_v that_o which_o he_o be_v seek_v to_o succeed_v and_o go_v with_o he_o but_o how_o shall_v it_o be_v discern_v answer_v 1_o it_o be_v
their_o religion_n in_o that_o be_v much_o darken_v and_o insensible_o prejudicate_v as_o to_o their_o light_n when_o they_o come_v up_o the_o length_n or_o near_o the_o length_n of_o that_o light_n conscience_n speak_v and_o give_v its_o testimony_n according_o and_o they_o have_v thence_o a_o sort_n of_o peace_n but_o it_o be_v not_o the_o peace_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n 4._o a_o natural_a man_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n may_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n and_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o respect_n as_o he_o may_v pray_v and_o have_v some_o moral_a sincerity_n in_o it_o and_o ●o_o as_o he_o will_v ●ain_o have_v a_o hear_n and_o will_v some_o way_n have_v his_o heart_n pray_v ●ay_v he_o may_v have_v a_o kind_n of_o delight_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o those_o hypocrite_n isa._n 58._o 2._o he_o will_v ●ain_o know_v what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o he_o do_v not_o deliberate_o thwart_v with_o his_o light_n in_o this_o respect_n paul_n say_v of_o himself_o before_o his_o conversion_n that_o as_o touch_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n he_o be_v blameless_a and_o rom._n 10._o 1._o he_o bear_v the_o jew_n record_n that_o they_o have_v a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o what_o i_o pray_v be_v this_o but_o conscience_n un-informed_n in_o and_o ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n from_o which_o ignorance_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o of_o the_o way_n of_o come_v to_o he_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n so_o than_o the_o natural_a man_n or_o hypocrite_n when_o he_o have_v come_v the_o length_n of_o some_o honest_a meaning_n be_v dispose_v to_o think_v that_o he_o have_v do_v very_o well_o and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o though_o he_o may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o some_o respect_n or_o in_o these_o respect_v mention_v and_o the_o like_a yet_o to_o have_v it_o simple_o and_o positive_o from_o solid_a and_o good_a ground_n give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n be_v impossible_a and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o have_v not_o the_o word_n go_v along_o with_o his_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o whole_a carriage_n and_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o principle_n motive_n end_n and_o design_n of_o his_o action_n testify_v for_o he_o and_o therefore_o i_o say_v he_o have_v not_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o true_o good_a conscience_n for_o the_o next_o question_n wherein_o be_v this_o conscience_n defective_a and_o what_o be_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o it_o and_o a_o believer_n good_a conscience_n or_o how_o may_v it_o be_v know_v as_o differ_v from_o a_o honest_a gospel_n conscience_n answer_v 1_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o rise_n there_o be_v a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n for_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v blind_a if_o the_o understanding_n be_v dark_a the_o conscience_n must_v be_v so_o too_o they_o have_v say_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o jew_n a_o zeal_n of_o god_n but_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n and_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n however_o zealous_a they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o other_o such_o may_v be_v yet_o they_o be_v ignorant_a in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o extent_n and_o spiritual_a meaning_n of_o the_o law_n suppose_v for_o instance_n that_o a_o man_n keep_v the_o six_o command_n when_o he_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o any_o gross_a act_n of_o murder_n and_o the_o seven_o when_o he_o do_v not_o actual_o commit_v adultery_n or_o fornication_n not_o know_v or_o consider_v that_o a_o look_v arise_v from_o the_o flame_n of_o lust_n within_o be_v a_o breach_n of_o that_o command_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o command_v even_o as_o the_o pharisee_n conform_v the_o law_n in_o the_o meaning_n thereof_o to_o their_o own_o practice_n and_o not_o their_o practice_n to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o law_n 2._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o of_o that_o which_o give_v the_o conscience_n solid_a ground_n to_o speak_v peace_n many_o if_o they_o have_v a_o honest_a meaning_n in_o their_o pray_n read_v of_o the_o scripture_n wait_v on_o public_a ordinance_n if_o they_o put_v their_o body_n to_o some_o sort_n of_o penance_n or_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v if_o it_o be_v the_o half_a of_o their_o estate_n to_o have_v their_o soul_n safe_a and_o if_o they_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o seriousness_n in_o all_o this_o think_v that_o all_o be_v well_o with_o they_o and_o that_o they_o have_v a_o very_a good_a conscience_n if_o this_o piece_n of_o ignorance_n be_v well_o discern_v never_o one_o soul_n out_o of_o christ_n will_v have_v peace_n because_o none_o out_o of_o christ_n have_v solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n for_o none_o have_v their_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n but_o these_o that_o be_v in_o he_o 3._o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o their_o particular_a case_n they_o know_v not_o what_o sin_n they_o be_v guilty_a of_o nor_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o they_o they_o think_v it_o speak_v better_a thing_n to_o they_o then_o indeed_o it_o do_v some_o guess_n at_o it_o some_o misinterpret_v it_o and_o some_o repeal_v it_o whereas_o if_o they_o be_v sober_o reflect_v on_o and_o impartial_o look_v to_o their_o manner_n of_o proceed_v in_o every_o thing_n they_o will_v see_v that_o they_o mistake_v their_o conscience_n exceed_o this_o then_o be_v the_o first_o defect_n viz._n a_o defect_n in_o the_o judgement_n the_o second_o be_v a_o defect_n as_o to_o singleness_n and_o sincerity_n in_o the_o natural_a man_n best_a condition_n such_o be_v never_o single_a when_o at_o their_o very_a best_a even_o when_o they_o be_v most_o serious_a in_o prayer_n they_o be_v but_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n when_o they_o fast_o and_o give_v alm_n and_o the_o like_a it_o be_v that_o they_o may_v have_v some_o ground_n for_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o themselves_o or_o that_o other_o may_v have_v a_o good_a opinion_n of_o they_o be_v always_o act_v from_o selfy_a motive_n and_o for_o self-end_n a_o 3d._a defect_n be_v the_o want_n of_o unbiased_a affection_n these_o be_v partial_a and_o bias_v will_v put_v the_o man_n to_o reason_n and_o dispute_v for_o the_o silence_v of_o his_o conscience_n and_o this_o eye_n not_o be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n affection_n be_v incline_v or_o swey_v to_o this_o or_o that_o side_n they_o will_v seek_v to_o ●way_n conscience_n to_o that_o side_n they_o incline_v to_o this_o be_v it_o that_o make_v some_o to_o follow_v after_o and_o to_o haunt_v the_o company_n of_o those_o who_o be_v erroneous_a in_o their_o judgement_n notwithstanding_o that_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n to_o the_o contrary_n lay_v before_o they_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o they_o reject_v and_o that_o without_o challenge_n be_v quite_o bias_v and_o prejudge_v in_o their_o affection_n thus_o many_o natural_a man_n lay_v this_o for_o a_o conclusion_n that_o so_o much_o only_o be_v holiness_n and_o that_o no_o more_o be_v needful_a and_o what_o be_v more_o be_v but_o superfluous_a niceness_n and_o so_o they_o prejudge_v their_o conscience_n by_o that_o 4._o it_o be_v defective_a in_o this_o that_o it_o maintain_v not_o its_o peace_n nor_o answer_v its_o challenge_n from_o christ_n blood_n it_o be_v not_o sprinkle_v with_o clean_a but_o with_o foul_a water_n to_o say_v so_o it_o may_v be_v it_o put_v the_o man_n to_o take_v on_o some_o resolution_n or_o to_o come_v under_o some_o vow_n as_o to_o somewhat_o that_o it_o may_v be_v be_v no_o command_v duty_n of_o religion_n not_o have_v any_o valuable_a influence_n upon_o it_o or_o he_o will_v as_o it_o be_v sprinkle_v his_o conscience_n with_o his_o tear_n thus_o many_o will_v grant_v that_o they_o have_v sin_v but_o withal_o they_o think_v and_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o say_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a heart_n or_o a_o good_a meaning_n or_o that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o man_n well_o esteem_v of_o have_v such_o a_o sin_n and_o be_v as_o guilty_a as_o they_o be_v or_o that_o many_o have_v have_v such_o si●s_n who_o yet_o have_v go_v to_o heaven_n on_o such_o and_o other_o the_o like_a pitiful_a ground_n they_o find_v their_o peace_n and_o by_o such_o silly_a shift_n they_o seek_v to_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n yea_o sometime_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o possibility_n of_o pardon_n many_o conclude_v confident_o that_o they_o be_v actual_o pardon_v we_o shall_v forbear_v to_o say_v any_o thing_n further_o at_o this_o time_n god_n
in-consistent_a with_o the_o doctrine_n nor_o with_o the_o use_n for_o the_o 1._o we_o will_v distinguish_v three_o thing_n in_o believer_n in_o reference_n to_o their_o conscience_n 1._o something_o wherein_o their_o conscience_n may_v just_o challenge_v they_o 2_o something_o that_o their_o conscience_n without_o ground_n may_v challenge_v they_o for_o 3_o something_o that_o may_v be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n which_o indeed_o be_v not_o by_o which_o the_o conscience_n may_v come_v to_o be_v mistake_v 1._o we_o say_v that_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n or_o case_n wherein_o upon_o just_a ground_n the_o believer_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v he_o and_o wherein_o he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n as_o beside_o several_a other_o in_o these_o 1._o if_o we_o take_v it_o to_o be_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n that_o be_v not_o only_o silent_a and_o mute_a and_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o reprover_n for_o even_o gross_a sin_n but_o also_o when_o waken_v just_o challenge_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v for_o they_o a_o believer_n may_v fall_v under_o it_o both_o way_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n and_o in_o david_n who_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n the_o first_o way_n when_o it_o be_v a_o sleep_n and_o the_o second_o way_n after_o it_o be_v waken_v though_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n consider_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o second_o way_n belong_v proper_o to_o this_o head_n 2_o if_o we_o look_v on_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n as_o its_o restless_a disquiet_v and_o vex_v call_v evil_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n as_o it_o speak_v evil_a so_o the_o believer_n may_v have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o particular_a act_n for_o which_o he_o be_v just_o challenge_v for_o he_o may_v thwart_v his_o light_n and_o may_v contract_v guilt_n and_o bring_v himself_o under_o the_o desert_n of_o wrath_n because_o of_o that_o guilt_n which_o bring_v on_o trouble_n at_o least_o inward_a in_o his_o mind_n and_o conscience_n if_o not_o outward_a also_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n after_o his_o adultery_n in_o peter_n when_o he_o deny_v christ_n and_o in_o many_o other_o certain_o as_o to_o such_o particular_a practice_n believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n 3_o if_o we_o consider_v a_o believer_n state_n and_o look_v upon_o conscience_n as_o speak_v his_o be_v in_o a_o evil_a state_n though_o doubtless_o it_o can_v warrantable_o charge_v he_o with_o nor_o challenge_v he_o for_o that_o nor_o can_v it_o have_v just_a ground_n to_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n that_o his_o state_n be_v evil_a yet_o it_o may_v very_o warrantable_o and_o on_o just_a ground_n be_v silent_a as_o to_o give_v he_o a_o positive_a testimony_n as_o to_o his_o good_a state_n when_o he_o have_v in_o such_o and_o such_o particular_n provoke_v god_n and_o cause_v he_o to_o hide_v his_o face_n as_o when_o david_n fall_v so_o foul_o his_o conscience_n may_v warrantable_o withdraw_v and_o its_o like_a do_v withdraw_v its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v his_o good_a state_n before_o god_n and_o though_o conscience_n here_o be_v in_o its_o duty_n in_o withhold_v its_o testimony_n from_o the_o believer_n while_o he_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yet_o as_o it_o do_v withhold_v it_o and_o so_o deprive_v he_o of_o the_o comfort_n result_v therefrom_o it_o may_v in_o so_o far_o be_v call_v a_o evil_a conscience_n to_o he_o though_o it_o be_v not_o in_o itself_o and_o sinful_o so_o 2_o the_o conscience_n may_v also_o challenge_v a_o believer_n for_o some_o thing_n without_o ground_n or_o unwarrantable_o which_o we_o may_v see_v beside_o other_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o conscience_n may_v charge_v a_o believer_n with_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n even_o as_o to_o his_o state_n when_o he_o be_v it_o may_v be_v much_o overcome_v with_o the_o power_n of_o unbelief_n and_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o sincerity_n much_o darken_v and_o see_v many_o thing_n very_o contrary_a thereto_o that_o may_v seem_v to_o speak_v his_o be_v out_o of_o christ_n when_o yet_o indeed_o ●e_n be_v in_o he_o the_o many_o sad_a plunge_n and_o difficulty_n that_o believer_n have_v fall_v into_o '_o wherein_n they_o have_v be_v pu●_n to_o think_v so_o hardly_o of_o themselves_o and_o not_o against_o the_o present_a light_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n neither_o prove_v that_o conscience_n may_v speak_v so_o and_o so_o hardly_o to_o they_o concern_v their_o unsound_a and_o hypocritical_a state_n and_o yet_o without_o ground_n especial_o when_o it_o hold_v not_o at_o the_o negation_n or_o suspension_n of_o its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v their_o gracious_a state_n but_o positive_o asse●eth_v the_o believer_n be_v in_o black_a nature_n still_o and_o ●o_o in_o a_o evil_n sta●e_v 2d●y_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o that_o which_o be_v not_o sin_n and_o so_o for_o that_o which_o it_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o challenge_v for_o as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o vers_fw-la 7._o compare_v with_o the_o penult_n vers_fw-la in_o the_o 7._o vers_fw-la the_o apostle_n say_v there_o be_v not_o in_o every_o man_n a_o like_a knowledge_n for_o some_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o idol_n eat_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n offer_v to_o a_o idol_n and_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v defile_v and_o vers_fw-la 12._o he_o say_v that_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v wound_v their_o light_n be_v weak_a and_o suppose_v such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o be_v challenge_v by_o their_o co●cience_n without_o just_a ground_n thus_o it_o be_v very_o ordinary_o for_o young_a beginner_n in_o religion_n to_o be_v pierce_v and_o wound_v with_o challenge_n for_o many_o thing_n that_o these_o who_o be_v more_o strong_a and_o full_o grou●_n will_v not_o at_o all_o be_v trouble_v for_o neither_o have_v ground_n to_o be_v trouble_v for_o as_o these_o who_o can_v eat_v every_o ●ort_n of_o meat_n ask_v no_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n 3_o conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n that_o have_v be_v pardon_v as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o pardon_v yea_o it_o may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n the_o pardon_n whereof_o have_v be_v intimate_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n and_o job_n who_o be_v pardon_v and_o yet_o under_o their_o affliction_n the_o sin_n of_o their_o youth_n do_v stare_v they_o in_o the_o face_n and_o the_o conscience_n will_v ready_o challenge_v for_o old_a iniquity_n though_o pardon_v either_o when_o believer_n break_v out_o into_o some_o new_a act_n of_o gross_a si●_n as_o we_o see_v in_o david_n case_n or_o when_o they_o be_v under_o some_o extraordinary_a and_o very_o sad_o circumstantiate_v dispensation_n of_o providence_n sore_o assault_v by_o tentation_n and_o unbelief_n cry_v loud_a as_o it_o be_v all_o be_v wrong_v there_o as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o measure_n with_o holy_a job._n 3_o we_o say_v that_o some_o thing_n may_v be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v not_o or_o we_o may_v mistake_v conscience_n and_o think_v that_o it_o speak_v so_o and_o so_o and_o do_v challenge_v when_o it_o do_v not_o speak_v so_o nor_o challenge_v which_o may_v be_v the_o reason_n of_o man_n suppose_v the_o conscience_n to_o be_v good_a when_o it_o be_v not_o or_o contrar_o and_o this_o come_v to_o pass_v especial_o in_o two_o case_n 1._o when_o our_o inc●nation_n be_v thwart_v or_o our_o humour_n be_v to_o speak_v ●o_o grieve_v in_o which_o case_n melancholy_n or_o discontent_n or_o some_o other_o grief_n be_v ready_o take_v to_o be_v conscience_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o achab_n when_o he_o get_v not_o the_o vine-yard_n of_o naboth_n he_o lay_v himself_o down_o on_o his_o bed_n and_o will_v eat_v no_o bread_n but_o it_o be_v not_o from_o any_o challenge_n of_o his_o conscience_n but_o because_o his_o inclination_n and_o humour_n be_v cross_v some_o degree_n of_o which_o may_v be_v find_v with_o believer_n 2_o when_o conscience_n speak_v only_o as_o to_o somewhat_o in_o part_n or_o only_o concern_v such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a and_o we_o draw_v a_o conclusion_n much_o broad_a then_o that_o which_o conscience_n do_v speak_v will_v bear_v as_o when_o it_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o this_o or_o this_o particular_a thou_o be_v not_o right_a and_o he_o hence_o conclude_v that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o nothing_o and_o very_o ordinary_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o believer_n that_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a distinct_a and_o strong_a in_o their_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v wrong_a they_o be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thing_n be_v wrong_a and_o nothing_o right_a because_o one_o thing_n be_v wrong_a so_o when_o conscience_n point_v forth_o such_o
pursue_v ourselves_o as_o if_o we_o be_v plead_v for_o god_n against_o ourselves_o and_o hereby_o endeavour_v a_o compose_a and_o fix_v divine_a frame_n of_o spirit_n as_o be_v in_o a_o special_a way_n before_o he_o who_o deputy_n the_o conscience_n ●s_v and_o in_o such_o a_o frame_n review_v our_o heart_n and_o way_n it_o will_v not_o be_v every_o frame_n nor_o any_o common_a frame_n of_o spirit_n that_o will_v fit_v and_o dispose_v to_o go_v right_o about_o this_o business_n 3_o we_o will_v be_v frequent_a in_o this_o duty_n and_o will_v not_o suffer_v reckon_n to_o run_v long_o on_o for_o if_o they_o do_v it_o make_v the_o work_n the_o more_o difficult_a and_o thus_o alace_o it_o be_v with_o many_o they_o have_v be_v so_o long_o a_o essay_n of_o it_o and_o so_o little_a in_o it_o that_o they_o think_v it_o a_o desperate_a business_n to_o set_v about_o it_o now_o whereas_o if_o man_n be_v weekly_o daily_o and_o on_o the_o back_n of_o every_o duty_n or_o action_n state_v and_o put_v by_o their_o account_n it_o will_v be_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o easy_a it_o be_v with_o many_o as_o to_o this_o as_o it_o be_v with_o these_o who_o have_v a_o multitude_n of_o business_n on_o their_o hand_n r●velled_v confuse_a and_o through_o other_o or_o as_o it_o be_v with_o these_o who_o have_v suffer_v their_o account_n to_o lie_v long_o over_o unfit_a whereas_o he_o that_o be_v daily_o in_o this_o work_n be_v like_o a_o man_n that_o every_o day_n fit_v and_o just_z his_o account_n do_v it_o easy_o and_o with_o little_a pain_n and_o therefore_o the_o direction_n in_o short_a be_v that_o these_o who_o will_v have_v their_o spiritual_a account_n easy_a will_v not_o suffer_v they_o to_o run_v long_o on_o 4_o we_o will_v be_v much_o in_o prayer_n begin_v it_o with_o prayer_n and_o carry_v prayer_n along_o with_o it_o and_o a●_n the_o heart_n start_v our_o from_o it_o by_o a_o look_n by_o a_o dart_v up-b●ink_a or_o e●aculation_n to_o god_n bring_v it_o back_o again_o and_o arrest_v it_o as_o it_o be_v and_o fix_v it_o before_o the_o lord_n because_o the_o heart_n can_v possible_o be_v keep_v any_o the_o least_o moment_n in_o god_n company_n if_o it_o be_v leave_v to_o itself_o there_o will_v be_v a_o frequent_o renew_v look_v up_o to_o he_o to_o fix_v it_o i_o will_v say_v the_o lord_n zech._n 12._o 10._o pour_v upon_o the_o house_n of_o david_n and_o inhabitant_n of_o jerusalem_n the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n they_o shall_v look_v upon_o he_o who_o they_o have_v pierce_v and_o shall_v ●ourn_v christian_n be_v then_o tender_v when_o look_v to_o god_n and_o so_o fit_a for_o this_o duty_n and_o will_v therefore_o be_v much_o in_o it_o 5_o we_o will_v not_o only_o look_v on_o it_o as_o a_o duty_n but_o as_o a_o mean_a exceed_o contributive_a to_o our_o spiritual_a good_a to_o the_o prevent_n of_o sin_n to_o the_o promove_v of_o 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o keep_n of_o our_o conscience_n calm_a and_o quiet_a and_o to_o the_o attain_n and_o maintain_v of_o peace_n as_o have_v be_v say_v there_o be_v many_o thing_n which_o we_o count_v to_o be_v hard_a and_o difficult_a because_o we_o consider_v not_o the_o great_a profit_n of_o they_o therefore_o to_o make_v this_o insuperable_o like_o difficult_a duty_n the_o more_o easy_a we_o will_v fill_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o the_o many_o and_o choice_a advantage_n that_o come_v by_o it_o o_o such_o mortification_n of_o lust_n such_o progress_n and_o advance_n in_o holiness_n such_o thrive_a and_o grow_v in_o grace_n with_o many_o other_o notable_a effect_n that_o it_o through_o god_n blessing_n produce_v 6_o to_o make_v it_o easy_a we_o will_v in_o the_o go_n about_o it_o have_v a_o manifold_a respect_n to_o jesus_n christ_n by_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n on_o he_o both_o in_o the_o undertake_n and_o perform_v of_o it_o there_o be_v a_o respect_n to_o be_v have_v to_o christ_n in_o all_o duty_n but_o here_o as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v a_o manifold_a respect_n will_v be_v have_v to_o he_o 1_o a_o respect_n will_v be_v have_v to_o he_o as_o our_o peace_n who_o only_o can_v purge_v and_o pacify_v the_o conscience_n and_o take_v away_o guilt_n and_o wash_v we_o thorough_o from_o it_o it_o may_v be_v some_o under-take_a self-examination_n as_o a_o sort_n of_o penance_n or_o whip_v of_o themselves_o and_o indeed_o in_o that_o case_n it_o can_v but_o be_v a_o very_a hard_a exercise_n when_o they_o mind_v nothing_o but_o the_o bare_a rip_v up_o of_o their_o sore_n and_o the_o make_n of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v to_o bleid_v but_o if_o they_o go_v about_o it_o with_o respect_n to_o christ_n to_o bring_v and_o drive_v they_o to_o he_o as_o to_o the_o physician_n that_o will_v make_v they_o to_o endure_v the_o smart_n and_o pain_n and_o will_v make_v the_o duty_n far_o more_o easy_a the_o 〈◊〉_d end_n of_o self-examination_n not_o be_v simple_o to_o afflict_v we_o but_o to_o send_v we_o to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o cure_n 2_o respect_n will_v be_v have_v to_o he_o not_o only_o as_o the_o healer_n of_o our_o sore_n and_o wound_n but_o also_o as_o the_o inablet_n and_o strengthner_n of_o we_o to_o take_v a_o serious_o reflect_v view_n of_o they_o and_o to_o look_v upon_o they_o indifferent_o universal_o and_o impartial_o the_o first_o way_n of_o look_v to_o he_o make_v we_o to_o go_v about_o this_o duty_n not_o heartles_o but_o with_o hope_n and_o the_o second_o way_n of_o look_v to_o he_o for_o influence_n and_o help_n from_o he_o strengthen_v we_o 3_o respect_n will_v be_v have_v to_o he_o as_o the_o pardoner_n of_o sin_n which_o be_v more_o general_o hint_v at_o in_o the_o first_o respect_n and_o therefore_o as_o sin_n be_v discover_v in_o the_o search_n they_o will_v be_v bring_v to_o he_o for_o this_o end_n it_o make_v it_o a_o very_a toilsome_a and_o unpleasant_a exercise_n when_o soul_n come_v only_o to_o the_o bar_n of_o conscience_n to_o get_v its_o sentence_n that_o mighty_o faint_v and_o they_o be_v ready_a in_o that_o case_n to_o rue_v that_o ever_o they_o look_v after_o and_o search_v out_o their_o sin_n when_o they_o find_v nothing_o but_o bitterness_n in_o it_o therefore_o we_o say_v that_o when_o a_o man_n have_v get_v the_o sentence_n of_o his_o conscience_n he_o will_v come_v forward_o and_o bring_v his_o sin_n to_o christ_n and_o lay_v himself_o and_o they_o at_o his_o foot_n and_o when_o conscience_n have_v pass_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n on_o he_o he_o will_v flee_v to_o he_o for_o absolution_n this_o will_v make_v self-examination_n not_o to_o have_v such_o unpleasantnesse_n and_o bitterness_n in_o it_o as_o otherways_o it_o have_v and_o can_v hardly_o but_o have_v and_o will_v much_o prevent_v our_o scar_v at_o ●t_a and_o be_v fright_v from_o it_o a_o second_o objection_n be_v this_o that_o some_o may_v think_v and_o say_v that_o if_o they_o shall_v essay_n this_o exercise_n they_o know_v not_o where_o to_o begin_v their_o condition_n be_v so_o confuse_a that_o its_o like_a a_o revel_v hesp_v or_o parcel_n of_o yarn_n they_o can_v find_v a_o end_n in_o it_o partly_o through_o their_o long_a and_o great_a neglect_n of_o the_o duty_n partly_o through_o the_o confusion_n of_o their_o spirit_n and_o their_o sin_n look_v out_o on_o they_o with_o a_o very_a formidable_a aspect_n to_o which_o we_o will_v answer_v 1._o that_o though_o it_o be_v so_o yet_o the_o duty_n must_v not_o be_v delay_v nor_o neglect_v the_o long_a it_o be_v ere_o you_o begin_v it_o will_v be_v on_o these_o and_o other_o account_n still_o the_o more_o difficult_a therefore_o you_o will_v fall_v the_o soon_o about_o it_o and_o the_o more_o serious_o about_o it_o with_o the_o deep_a humiliation_n for_o so_o much_o and_o so_o long_o neglect_v of_o it_o and_o the_o great_a dependence_n on_o god_n for_o his_o assistance_n to_o win_v at_o it_o 2_o in_o your_o go_v about_o it_o when_o you_o discover_v much_o sin_n and_o find_v your_o case_n to_o be_v very_o confuse_v if_o you_o there_fw-mi not_o hazard_v to_o wade_v as_o it_o be_v into_o the_o very_a midst_n of_o it_o at_o least_o at_o first_o you_o will_v endeavour_v to_o pi●ch_v on_o some_o particular_n wherein_o you_o may_v be_v distinct_a as_o soldier_n use_v to_o do_v with_o a_o army_n that_o be_v too_o strong_a for_o they_o they_o be_v busy_a in_o gather_v up_o the_o straggler_n as_o they_o come_v at_o they_o and_o fall_v on_o some_o small_a party_n therefore_o such_o of_o you_o as_o serious_o and_o sincere_o mind_v this_o great_a work_n of_o self_n examination_n though_o you_o may_v incline_v at_o first_o to_o fall_v in_o on_o the_o very_a bulk_n and_o heap_n of_o your_o sin_n yet_o honest_o
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
wherewith_o he_o be_v surprise_v against_o which_o he_o fight_v and_o wrestle_v seek_v after_o and_o long_v for_o victory_n over_o they_o and_o with_o which_o he_o admit_v of_o no_o truce_n even_o when_o they_o prevail_v as_o for_o other_o ●ins_v they_o will_v very_o ready_o mar_v the_o believer_n peace_n and_o tranquillity_n the_o doctrine_n be_v thus_o qualify_v and_o guard_v on_o all_o hand_n we_o shall_v now_o at_o length_n proceed_v to_o the_o confirmation_n of_o it_o which_o be_v that_o wherever_o there_o be_v a_o sincere_a willingness_n to_o be_v universal_o honest_a in_o our_o life_n and_o conversation_n there_o be_v good_a ground_n for_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n or_o it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o companion_n of_o it_o it_o may_v be_v confirm_v from_o these_o ground_n 1._o either_o we_o must_v say_v that_o no_o believer_n have_v ever_o have_v tranquillity_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v absurd_a or_o we_o must_v say_v that_o these_o who_o have_v it_o do_v attain_v to_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o need_v no_o repentance_n which_o the_o forename_a instance_n of_o most_o eminent_a saint_n as_o of_o david_n and_o peter_n will_v confute_v or_o if_o we_o can_v say_v none_o of_o these_o two_o we_o must_v needs_o assert_v the_o three_o viz._n that_o a_o believer_n on_o his_o sincere_a design_n to_o live_v honest_o in_o all_o thing_n though_o he_o come_v not_o up_o the_o full_a length_n he_o shall_v be_v at_o may_v have_v peace_n 2._o that_o which_o have_v quiet_v many_o believer_n before_o we_o may_v be_v a_o ground_n of_o calmness_n and_o quietness_n to_o we_o for_o as_o the_o ground_n and_o cause_n be_v common_a the_o effect_n must_v also_o be_v common_a but_o on_o this_o ground_n many_o believer_n have_v be_v quiet_v before_o we_o therefore_o we_o may_v likewise_o on_o it_o quiet_v ourselves_o if_o we_o look_v through_o the_o scripture_n we_o will_v find_v the_o saint_n thus_o quiet_v and_o comfort_v themselves_o what_o be_v the_o ground_n that_o david_n comfort_v himself_o on_o psal._n 18._o 21_o 22_o 23._o be_v it_o not_o on_o this_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 this_o sure_a be_v not_o absolute_a perfection_n that_o he_o mean_v of_o for_o we_o know_v he_o have_v many_o defect_n and_o fail_n but_o sincerity_n for_o say_v he_o all_z his_o judgement_n be_v before_o i_o he_o have_v honest_o design_v the_o keep_n of_o they_o all_o i_o do_v not_o put_v away_o his_o statute_n from_o i_o he_o balk_v none_o of_o god_n statute_n i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o i_o keep_v myself_o from_o my_o iniquity_n the_o strain_n of_o his_o way_n be_v honest_a and_o his_o slip_n and_o fail_n be_v hitherto_o its_o like_a of_o infirmity_n and_o therefore_o he_o have_v peace_n we_o may_v see_v that_o it_o be_v thus_o also_o with_o hezekiah_n isa._n 38._o with_o job_n chap._n 31._o and_o with_o paul_n phil._n 3._o who_o be_v not_o perfect_a already_o but_o press_v hard_o towards_o it_o a_o 3._o ground_n of_o confirmation_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o scripture_n give_v such_o character_n and_o description_n of_o believer_n and_o affirm_v such_o qualification_n of_o they_o on_o account_n of_o which_o they_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o god_n and_o ground_n of_o holy_a boldness_n in_o their_o plead_n with_o he_o all_o which_o look_v to_o their_o honest_a willingness_n and_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o perfection_n and_o not_o to_o their_o attainment_n of_o it_o as_o we_o see_v in_o nehemiah_n who_o thus_o speak_v to_o god_n chap._n 1._o let_v thy_o ear_n be_v attentive_a to_o the_o prayer_n of_o thy_o servant_n and_o of_o thy_o servant_n who_o desire_v to_o fear_v thy_o name_n where_o we_o have_v the_o assert_v of_o a_o interest_n in_o god_n and_o of_o a_o kindly_a relation_n to_o he_o with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o yet_o they_o plead_v not_o a_o perfection_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n but_o a_o desire_n to_o fear_v he_o their_o desire_n design_n resolution_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o fear_v he_o so_o matth_n 5._o vers_fw-la 6._o they_o be_v pronounce_v by_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v bless_v who_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o righteousness_n which_o speak_v plain_o no_o absolute_a perfection_n and_o say_v they_o psal._n 44._o all_o this_o be_v come_v upon_o we_o yet_o have_v we_o not_o forsake_v thou_o nor_o deal_v false_o in_o thy_o covenant_n though_o they_o have_v many_o infirmity_n and_o fail_n which_o they_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o take_v with_o yet_o they_o humble_o avouch_v adherence_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o covenant_n so_o as_o they_o do_v not_o forsake_v he_o nor_o deal_v treacherous_o in_o it_o they_o assert_v their_o sincerity_n in_o cleave_v to_o he_o notwithstanding_o of_o all_o that_o come_v upon_o they_o this_o ground_n be_v frequent_o make_v use_n of_o psal._n 119._o and_o particular_o vers_fw-la 6._o where_o the_o psalmist_n say_v then_o shall_v i_o not_o be_v ashamed_a when_o i_o have_v respect_n unto_o all_o thy_o commandment_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v my_o conscience_n shall_v not_o blush_v nor_o be_v confound_v but_o have_v confidence_n and_o quietness_n though_o there_o be_v not_o a_o perfect_a up_o come_v in_o obedience_n to_o all_o thing_n command_v if_o i_o have_v a_o respect_n to_o all_o and_o a_o honest_a design_n and_o purpose_n to_o be_v at_o all_o 4._o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o if_o we_o consider_v that_o conscience_n will_v and_o must_v be_v calm_a and_o quiet_a when_o god_n accept_v of_o a_o man_n way_n now_o though_o there_o be_v not_o absolute_a perfection_n yet_o if_o there_o be_v reality_n and_o sincerity_n and_o no_o short-coming_a allow_v approven_v nor_o consent_v to_o but_o wrestle_v against_o and_o oppose_v god_n will_v accept_v of_o our_o way_n it_o be_v say_v 2_o cor._n 8._o vers_fw-la 9_o 10._o that_o god_n accept_v of_o a_o willing_a mind_n according_a to_o that_o which_o a_o man_n have_v and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o which_o he_o have_v not_o if_o a_o man_n improve_v well_o serious_o and_o sincere_o the_o outward_a thing_n give_v he_o though_o there_o be_v some_o providential_a obstruction_n to_o the_o performance_n yet_o on_o account_n of_o his_o honest_o willing_a mind_n he_o be_v gracious_o accept_v which_o hold_v proportionable_o in_o other_o point_n and_o part_n of_o obedience_n thus_o the_o lord_n say_v mal._n 3._o 17._o i_o will_v spare_v they_o as_o a_o man_n spare_v his_o son_n that_o serve_v he_o and_o psal._n 103._o 13._o like_a as_o a_o father_n pity_v his_o child_n so_o do_v the_o lord_n these_o that_o fear_v he_o the_o force_n of_o the_o comparison_n show_v that_o thing_n be_v not_o at_o perfection_n in_o they_o for_o then_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o spare_v or_o pity_n but_o as_o there_o be_v such_o compassion_n in_o a_o father_n that_o though_o his_o son_n can_v perform_v thing_n command_v he_o exact_o and_o perfect_o yet_o if_o he_o be_v ready_o and_o honest_o do_v what_o he_o thou_fw-mi he_o will_v spare_v and_o pity_v he_o and_o he_o will_v be_v a_o unnatural_a father_n that_o shall_v do_v otherwise_o so_o will_v i_o do_v say_v the_o lord_n with_o my_o son_n that_o serve_v i_o and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o ground_n of_o a_o man_n peace_n and_o calmness_n be_v not_o any_o absolute_a perfection_n in_o himself_o but_o god_n covenant_n and_o free_a grace_n and_o his_o way_n of_o deal_n with_o his_o own_o child_n who_o will_v in_o some_o case_n say_v nothing_o against_o they_o and_o conscience_n be_v not_o allow_v to_o say_v any_o thing_n where_o he_o say_v nothing_o now_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v how_o this_o come_v to_o pass_v we_o answer_v that_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n that_o accompany_v real_a willingness_n that_o contribute_v to_o and_o give_v ground_n of_o peace_n even_o though_o there_o be_v fail_n 1._o a_o real_a hatred_n and_o abhorrence_n of_o the_o sin_n psal._n 119._o 128._o i_o hate_v every_o false_a way_n there_o be_v a_o keep_n at_o a_o distance_n with_o conscience_n waste_v sin_n so_o that_o the_o man_n not_o only_o abstain_v from_o act_v they_o but_o out_o of_o conscience_n towards_o god_n from_o filial_a awe_n and_o reverence_n from_o love_n and_o respect_n to_o he_o hate_v that_o which_o he_o hate_v do_v not_o not_o i_o say_v davia_n psal._n 139._o hate_v they_o that_o hate_v thou_o i_o hate_v they_o with_o a_o perfect_a hatred_n 2_o real_a willingness_n keep_v off_o conscience_n wasting-aggravations_a so_o that_o believer_n fall_v not_o in_o sin_n of_o infirmity_n with_o full_a deliberation_n neither_o do_v they_o allow_v or_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o lie_v still_o in_o they_o now_o it_o be_v such_o as_o these_o that_o especial_o wound_v the_o conscience_n and_o
natural_a man_n performance_n be_v never_o so_o specious_a and_o splendid_a yet_o before_o god_n they_o be_v but_o dead_a like_o a_o carcase_n that_o want_v life_n so_o that_o though_o the_o great_a heap_n of_o prayer_n and_o of_o other_o duty_n shall_v be_v find_v with_o a_o mere_o natural_a man_n they_o be_v but_o like_a to_o these_o apple_n which_o as_o its_o story_a grow_v at_o or_o about_o the_o lake_n of_o sodom_n which_o appear_v beautiful_a to_o the_o eye_n but_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o hand_n they_o present_o fall_v into_o ash_n so_o the_o very_o best_a of_o natural_a man_n work_n how_o shine_v soever_o be_v but_o dead_a work_n before_o god_n therefore_o by_o the_o way_n you_o will_v know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o dead_a work_n and_o live_a work_n and_o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o present_v fair_a &_o be_v pleasant_a to_o look_v upon_o which_o yet_o defile_v the_o conscience_n ah_o how_o many_o man_n and_o woman_n be_v there_o even_o live_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n who_o be_v in_o as_o great_a danger_n from_o and_o by_o that_o which_o se●ms_v at_o first_o blush_n to_o be_v somewhat_o as_o by_o that_o which_o be_v re●ly_o and_o obvious_o nothing_o all_o such_o work_n be_v but_o empty_a show_n counterfeit_v and_o very_a cheat_n they_o have_v no_o soul_n 〈◊〉_d l●fe_n in_o they_o be_v 〈◊〉_d destitute_a of_o any_o 〈◊〉_d principle_n or_o end_v however_o the_o world_n of_o pro●_n of_o religion_n do_v to_o their_o own_o ruin_n place_v all_o their_o religion_n in_o they_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o influence_a effect_n of_o these_o dead_a work_n on_o the_o conscience_n we_o find_v it_o here_o to_o be_v that_o they_o pollute_v and_o defile_v it_o as_o a_o clear_a spring_n be_v mud_v and_o defile_v by_o the_o soul_n foot_n of_o beast_n go_v through_o it_o even_o so_o be_v this_o d●vine_a thing_n the_o conscience_n defile_v by_o sinful_a 〈◊〉_d in_o it_o which_o make_v it_o to_o become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o cage_n for_o every_o unclean_a and_o hateful_a bird_n or_o rather_o as_o a_o hold_n of_o every_o ●oul_a spirit_n these_o lust_n as_o so_o many_o ●oul_a spirit_n swarm_v in_o it_o pollute_v and_o defile_v it_o whereby_o it_o become_v quite_o another_o thing_n whence_o we_o may_v draw_v these_o two_o observation_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v that_o dead_a work_n or_o sin_n continue_v in_o do_v pollute_v and_o defile_v a_o man●_n conscience_n they_o make_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v a_o clean_a and_o 〈◊〉_d conscience_n to_o become_v pollute_v and_o filthy_a so_o that_o ye●_n ever_o see_v a_o face_n more_o full_a of_o foul_a spot_n more_o deform_v by_o they_o than_o the_o conscience_n be_v pollute_v by_o these_o dead_a work_n defi●ing_v sin_n therefore_o be_v this_o word_n to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n use_v there_o which_o be_v render_v to_o clean_n ephes._n 5_o 26._o that_o he_o may_v sanctify_v and_o cleanse_v his_o church_n and_o as_o simpollu●es_v the_o man_n in_o all_o his_o power_n and_o faculty_n so_o proportionable_o it_o pollut_v he_o in_o his_o conscience_n which_o be_v deep_o pollute_v before_o it_o be_v purge_v and_o cleanse_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v a_o threefold_a pollution_n that_o follow_v 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o conscience_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n state_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d before_o god_n it_o mak●s_v he_o legal_o unclean_a as_o we_o use_v to_o say_v of_o a_o murderer_n or_o a_o thief_n or_o any_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d when_o find_v guilty_a by_o a_o assize_n that_o such_o a_o person_n be_v file_v so_o a_o man_n by_o commit_v of_o sin_n be_v 〈◊〉_d guilty_a obnoxious_a to_o punishment_n jyable_a to_o wrath_n even_o the_o eternal_a wrath_n of_o god_n because_o of_o it_o this_o be_v a_o legal_a pollution_n or_o defilement_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n present_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n for_o though_o he_o be_v in_o a_o justify_v and_o clean_a state_n and_o have_v it_o may_v be_v win_v at_o clearness_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o god_n and_o to_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n in_o his_o conscience_n so_o that_o his_o peace_n have_v run_v as_o a_o clear_a smooth_a and_o still_a river_n or_o stream_n the_o let_v in_o of_o sin_n be_v like_a to_o the_o drive_v of_o a_o herd_n of_o cattle_n through_o a_o clear_a run_a stream_n whereby_o it_o be_v mud_v and_o trouble_v so_o that_o in_o stead_n of_o peace_n there_o come_v in_o disquiet_v challenge_n and_o in_o stead_n of_o clearness_n much_o confusion_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o sad_a instance_n of_o several_a of_o god_n saint_n as_o particular_o in_o david_n after_o his_o fall_n who_o therefore_o psal._n 51._o prey_n to_o be_v washen_n from_o this_o filthiness_n both_o from_o the_o guilt_n and_o from_o the_o pollution_n of_o sin_n and_o for_o peace_n that_o god_n will_v restore_v to_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n 3._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o sinful_a propension_n and_o inclination_n to_o more_o sin_n which_o follow_v upon_o every_o sin_n so_o that_o by_o frequent_a fall_n into_o sin_n the_o very_a nature_n as_o it_o be_v of_o conscience_n be_v alter_v that_o of_o a_o loath_a of_o sin_n it_o become_v a_o lover_n of_o it_o and_o lick_v it_o up_o as_o a_o dog_n do_v his_o vomit_n and_o with_o the_o sow_n that_o be_v washen_v return_v to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 2_o pet._n 2._o ult_n when_o a_o person_n be_v seem_o washen_v and_o return_n to_o the_o same_o sin_n that_o he_o be_v give_v to_o before_o his_o conscience_n become_v so_o filthy_a that_o it_o can_v digest_v the_o filthy_a and_o most_o loathsome_a sin_n it_o can_v swallow_v they_o down_o and_o glut_v they_o over_o to_o speak_v so_o and_o never_o challenge_v nor_o quarrel_n for_o they_o in_o this_o sense_n the_o apostle_n say_v tit._n 1._o 15._o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o these_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a there_o be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defi●ed_v the_o man_n that_o follow_v a_o course_n of_o sin_n his_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v not_o only_o in_o respect_n of_o contract_a guilt_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o want_n of_o peace_n and_o comfort_n but_o also_o in_o respect_n of_o utter_a indisposition_n for_o duty_n and_o of_o a_o sinful_a inclination_n to_o more_o sin_n so_o that_o it_o become_v harden_v and_o cauterise_v there_o be_v such_o a_o contagion_n in_o sin_n that_o it_o defile_v and_o pollute_v the_o conscience_n all_o these_o way_n that_o whereas_o it_o be_v before_o pure_a it_o become_v now_o like_o a_o person_n that_o have_v the_o botch_n and_o many_o boil_n and_o putrify_a sore_n run_v in_o he_o only_o we_o will_v distinguish_v here_o betwixt_o this_o pollution_n of_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v total_a in_o a_o unrenewed_a man_n and_o as_o it_o be_v partial_a in_o a_o believer_n a_o believer_n may_v be_v defile_v in_o conscience_n when_o he_o be_v offend_v and_o stumble_v so_o as_o to_o be_v tempt_v by_o the_o example_n of_o other_o to_o do_v some_o thing_n wherein_o he_o be_v not_o clear_a as_o some_o be_v 1_o cor._n 8._o verse_n 7_o and_o 10._o his_o conscience_n be_v thereby_o mud_v jumble_a and_o trouble_v and_o his_o peace_n mar_v yet_o he_o have_v not_o a_o total_a and_o universal_a defilement_n of_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o the_o effect_n of_o that_o uncleanness_n pollution_n and_o defilement_n follow_v not_o total_o and_o universal_o oh_n he_o i_o shall_v only_o say_v for_o use_v of_o this_o 1._o o_o that_o you_o know_v what_o a_o abominable_a thing_n sin_n be_v and_o how_o dreadful_o dangerous_a it_o be_v thereby_o to_o defile_v and_o pollute_v the_o conscience_n which_o be_v the_o most_o noble_a thing_n in_o you_o sin_n will_v sure_o be_v more_o abhor_a and_o flee_v from_o it_o be_v real_o a_o wonder_n that_o man_n shall_v love_v dead_a work_n so_o well_o when_o there_o be_v no_o botch_n nor_o plague_n so_o infectious_a and_o contagious_a so_o hurtful_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o body_n as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n 2_o this_o we_o may_v also_o see_v that_o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n that_o man_n who_o be_v give_v to_o sin_n be_v hard_a to_o be_v waken_v and_o reclaim_v for_o continuance_n in_o sin_n make_v the_o conscience_n full_a of_o hole_n as_o it_o be_v that_o all_o slip_n and_o fall_v through_o it_o or_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v it_o make_v the_o conscience_n to_o become_v cauterise_v fenseless_a and_o feelingless_a as_o the_o flesh_n be_v that_o a_o chirurgeon_n design_n to_o consume_v away_o so_o i_o say_v continuance_n in_o sin_n deaden_n and_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
any_o kingdom_n or_o common_a wealth_n erect_v as_o himself_o every_o where_o assert_n 4_o that_o if_o the_o apostle_n of_o our_o lord_n shall_v have_v be_v forbid_v by_o the_o lawful_a sovereign_n of_o the_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n of_o the_o world_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o baptise_v they_o shall_v in_o obedience_n to_o they_o have_v forbear_v which_o mr._n hobbs_n plain_o without_o a_o blush_n insinuate_v when_o he_o say_v page_n 311._o our_o saviour_n give_v his_o apostle_n power_n to_o preach_v and_o baptize_v in_o all_o part_n of_o the_o world_n suppose_v that_o they_o be_v not_o forbid_v by_o their_o own_o lawful_a sovereign_n have_v they_o not_o their_o commission_n from_o their_o master_n in_o most_o ample_a form_n without_o any_o the_o least_o either_o direct_a or_o indirect_a intimation_n of_o such_o a_o exceptation_n or_o imitation_n math._n 28._o 19_o 20._o go_v you_o therefore_o say_v he_o to_o they_o and_o teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o father_n of_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n teach_v they_o to_o observe_v all_o thing_n whatsoever_o i_o command_v you_o that_o be_v of_o whatsoever_o nature_n they_o be_v whether_o they_o be_v clear_a by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n or_o be_v divine_a positives_n whoever_o forbid_v or_o command_v you_o ●o_o the_o contrary_a and_o mark_v 16_o v._n 15._o go_v you_o say_v he_o to_o they_o into_o all_o the_o world_n and_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n which_o accordingy_a they_o do_v v_o 20._o and_o they_o go_v forth_o and_o preach_v every_o where_o not_o only_a where_o they_o be_v not_o forbid_v do_v they_o not_o preach_v the_o gospel_n at_o jerusalem_n notwithstanding_o they_o be_v several_o not_o without_o threaten_n forbid_v by_o their_o own_o sovereign_n the_o council_n and_o tell_v they_o plain_o that_o they_o ought_v to_o obey_v god_n rather_o than_o man_n wherein_o they_o can_v not_o obey_v both_o allege_v that_o they_o can_v not_o but_o speak_v the_o thing_n that_o they_o have_v hear_v and_o see_v without_o any_o such_o regard_n as_o might_n imp_v they_o in_o their_o work_n to_o the_o strait_a threaten_n and_o prohibition_n to_o speak_v at_o all_o or_o to_o preach_v in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n and_o lest_o any_o shall_v say_v or_o think_v that_o this_o be_v more_o than_o they_o have_v warrant_n for_o we_o be_v tell_v after_o the_o inhibition_n to_o preach_v and_o after_o their_o imprisonment_n for_o contrau●ning_n from_o which_o they_o be_v miraculous_o set_v free_a that_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n who_o have_v open_v their_o prison_n door_n charge_v they_o thus_o go_v and_o stand_v and_o speak_v in_o the_o temple_n to_o the_o people_n whatsoever_o the_o ruler_n think_v o●_n it_o and_o notwithstanding_o they_o have_v in●bited_v and_o imprison_v you_o all_o the_o word_n of_o this_o life_n of_o all_o which_o the_o divine_a historian_n give_v we_o a_o account_n in_o the_o 4._o and_o 5._o chapter_n of_o the_o act_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o why_o i_o pray_v do_v he_o not_o as_o well_o make_v the_o supposition_n of_o their_o not_o be_v forbid_v by_o any_o lawful_a sovereign_n as_o by_o their_o own_o since_o he_o will_v not_o neither_o do_v deny_v that_o lawful_a sovereign_a power_n may_v prohibit_v stranger_n within_o their_o own_o dominion_n to_o preach_v or_o practise_v against_o the_o law_n o●_n public_a conscience_n and_o chastise_v they_o for_o controvention_n and_o disobedience_n except_v always_o the_o person_n of_o ambassador_n and_o herald_n send_v from_o other_o civil_a sovereign_n which_o use_v to_o be_v account_v in_o a_o manner_n sacred_a and_o inviolabe_n as_o well_o as_o their_o own_o native_a subject_n and_o if_o so_o have_v the_o apostle_n be_v forbid_v to_o preach_v and_o baptize_v by_o the_o sovereign_a power_n of_o every_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n whether_o they_o come_v as_o they_o can_v not_o ready_o nor_o reasonable_o expect_v but_o they_o will_v all_o the_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n of_o the_o world_n be_v then_o pagan_a except_v that_o of_o the_o jew_n where_o will_v they_o or_o can_v they_o have_v preach_v and_o baptize_v and_o what_o will_v have_v become_v of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o a_o gospel_n church_n do_v not_o paul_n and_o silas_n after_o the_o magistrate_n of_o the_o city_n of_o philippi_n have_v it_o seem_v with_o their_o own_o hand_n debase_v themselves_o in_o their_o ●ury_n below_o the_o dignity_n of_o their_o office_n rend_v off_o their_o clothes_n lay_v many_o stripe_n on_o they_o and_o casten_z they_o into_o prison_n for_o their_o preach_n and_o teach_v custom_n as_o be_v allege_v by_o their_o accuser_n which_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o be_v receive_v or_o observe_v by_o they_o be_v roman_n do_v they_o not_o i_o say_v go_v in_o and_o exhort_v or_o preach_v to_o the_o brethren_n in_o the_o house_n of_o lydia_n &_o that_o after_o they_o be_v by_o the_o magistrate_n desire_v to_o depart_v out_o of_o the_o city_n as_o we_o may_v see_v act_v 16._o 5ly_n that_o private_a person_n live_v in_o kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n do_v not_o sin_n and_o shall_v be_v keep_v harmless_a in_o obey_v the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o their_o lawful_a sovereign_n though_o cross_v the_o dictate_v of_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o it_o may_v be_v cross_a to_o the_o positive_a command_n of_o god_n the_o first_o of_o these_o new_a teacher_n mr._n hobbs_n tell_v we_o as_o we_o show_v before_o in_o the_o first_o absurdity_n in_o the_o ca●e_n of_o deny_v christ_n before_o man_n most_o dreadful_o threaten_v by_o he_o with_o deny_v they_o before_o his_o father_n that_o whatever_o a_o subject_a as_o naaman_n be_v be_v compel_v eo_fw-la in_o obedience_n to_o his_o sovereign_n and_o do_v it_o not_o in_o order_n to_o his_o own_o mind_n but_o in_o order_n to_o the_o law_n of_o his_o own_o country_n that_o action_n be_v not_o he_o but_o his_o sovereign_n nor_o be_v it_o he_o that_o in_o this_o case_n deny_v christ_n but_o his_o sovereign_n and_o the_o law_n of_o his_o country_n and_o page_n 309._o the_o civil_a sovereign_n may_v make_v law_n suitable_a to_o his_o doctrine_n for_o he_o will_v have_v he_o to_o be_v the_o only_a sovereign_a teacher_n of_o the_o people_n that_o be_v under_o he_o jure_fw-la divino_fw-la which_o quite_o ●ulls_v the_o divine_a right_n of_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o may_v oblige_v man_n to_o such_o action_n as_o they_o will_v not_o otherways_o do_v and_o which_o he_o ought_v not_o to_o command_v and_o when_o they_o be_v command_v they_o be_v law_n and_o the_o external_a action_n that_o be_v do_v in_o obedience_n to_o they_o without_o the_o inward_a approbation_n be_v the_o action_n of_o the_o sovereign_n and_o not_o of_o the_o subject_a who_o in_o that_o 〈◊〉_d but_o the_o instrument_n without_o any_o motion_n of_o his_o own_o at_o all_o because_o god_n have_v command_v to_o obey_v they_o alas_o the_o poor_a subject_n be_v here_o by_o he_o not_o only_o rob_v of_o his_o judgement_n of_o private_a discreet_a on_o and_o conscience_n as_o to_o his_o own_o act_n which_o be_v hard_a enough_o but_o in_o a_o manner_n of_o a_o humane_a rational_a soul_n if_o not_o also_o of_o a_o sensitive_a one_o and_o so_o degrade_v and_o detrude_v below_o the_o very_a beast_n that_o perish_v for_o he_o make_v he_o a_o mere_a instrument_n without_o any_o motion_n at_o all_o only_a he_o somewhat_o recover_v he_o from_o his_o brut●_n yea_o infrabrutal_a state_n by_o make_v he_o capable_a to_o obey_v command_n though_o against_o his_o conscience_n the_o other_o hobbist_n doctor_n who_o will_v not_o be_v outstripe_v by_o his_o master_n according_a to_o his_o manner_n dictate_v very_o magisteria_o that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o sin_n in_o the_o command_n of_o the_o sovereign_a power_n he_o that_o impose_v it_o shall_v answer_v it_o and_o not_o 1_n who_o whole_a duty_n be_v to_o obey_v the_o command_n of_o authority_n will_v warrant_v ●y_a obedience_n my_o obedience_n will_v hallow_v at_o least_o excuse_v my_o action_n and_o so_o secure_v i_o from_o sin_n if_o not_o from_o error_n very_o easy_a so●t_n and_o smooth_a doctrine_n indeed_o for_o private_a person_n and_o subject_n if_o its_o teacher_n can_v assure_v we_o of_o its_o certain_a and_o infallible_a truth_n and_o of_o its_o consonancy_n and_o agreeablenesse_n with_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n but_o subject_n must_v not_o cast_v their_o soul_n at_o haphazard_n on_o the_o bare_a and_o unproved_a assert_n of_o these_o gentleman_n who_o give_v we_o no_o great_a proof_n of_o either_o their_o truth_n or_o tenderness_n in_o other_o great_a concern_v of_o religion_n especial_o since_o the_o divine_o inspire_a apostle_n reach_v we_o quite_o other_o doctrine_n while_o he_o tell_v we_o more_o general_o 2._o cor._n 5._o v._n 10._o that_o
conscience_n for_o abstain_v from_o such_o and_o such_o a_o practice_n only_o from_o long_a custom_n of_o do_v so_o from_o the_o example_n of_o other_o or_o from_o loathness_n to_o displease_v they_o or_o only_o from_o dis-inclination_n to_o or_o aversion_n from_o the_o thing_n which_o they_o will_v not_o ready_o abide_v by_o if_o any_o considerable_a suffering_n whether_o of_o emergent_a loss_n or_o cessant_fw-la gain_n be_v meet_v with_o on_o account_n thereof_o whereby_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o conscience_n and_o true_o conscientious_a person_n be_v expose_v to_o contempt_n and_o scorn_n some_o stander_n by_o and_o looker-on_n take_v occasion_n to_o think_v and_o say_v that_o such_o person_n have_v all_o the_o while_n be_v act_v by_o no_o real_a principle_n of_o conscience_n but_o only_o by_o humour_n or_o at_o best_o by_o the_o example_n of_o other_o to_o the_o great_a reproach_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o holy_a profession_n there_o of_o and_o such_o as_o have_v a_o natural_a and_o unreasonable_a prejudice_n at_o all_o serious_a godliness_n and_o tenderness_n of_o conscience_n lie_v at_o the_o wait_n to_o fish_n and_o catch_v all_o advantage_n so_o fortify_v themselves_o in_o their_o prejudice_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o draw_v their_o conclusion_n not_o only_o nor_o so_o much_o against_o the_o particular_a person_n as_o against_o the_o whole_a generation_n of_o conscientious_a and_o godly_a people_n yea_o against_o godliness_n itself_o and_o tenderness_n of_o conscience_n their_o prejudice_n prompt_v they_o to_o think_v and_o say_v we_o always_o think_v that_o sort_n of_o man_n be_v not_o true_o conscientious_a and_o godly_a whatsoever_o they_o profess_v and_o now_o we_o see_v and_o find_v they_o to_o be_v so_o and_o that_o we_o be_v not_o mistake_v but_o in_o the_o right_n when_o we_o think_v they_o to_o be_v such_o they_o be_v all_o such_o all_o of_o a_o piece_n act_v by_o no_o true_a principle_n of_o conscience_n but_o by_o humour_n peevishness_n or_o some_o such_o thing_n notwithstanding_o of_o all_o their_o high_a floun_a pretension_n of_o conscience_n for_o let_v they_o but_o be_v put_v a_o little_a to_o it_o and_o all_o their_o conscience-pretension_n will_v be_v quite_o relinquish_v and_o evanish_v and_o they_o will_v be_v and_o do_v like_o other_o which_o give_v ground_n to_o sober_a and_o true_o conscientious_a person_n to_o think_v that_o it_o be_v better_a and_o more_o for_o the_o advantage_n and_o credit_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o real_a plea_n of_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v never_o pretend_v in_o such_o thing_n where_o it_o be_v only_o pretend_v i_o will_v not_o i_o there_fw-mi not_o say_v but_o a_o true_o conscienscious_a person_n may_v by_o the_o more_o close_a approach_n of_o trouble_n and_o suffering_n on_o the_o account_n of_o some_o particular_a debate_v practice_n or_o forbearance_n be_v put_v upon_o more_o narrow_a and_o exact_a inquiry_n into_o and_o examination_n of_o the_o ground_n &_o reason_n of_o that_o practice_n or_o forbearance_n and_o may_v after_o such_o inquiry_n and_o examination_n come_v from_o more_o clear_a light_n to_o have_v different_a apprehension_n about_o the_o thing_n from_o what_o he_o have_v before_o though_o the_o clearness_n win_v at_o which_o be_v wait_v with_o the_o eschew_v of_o trouble_n and_o suffering_n will_v be_v holy_o jealouse_v and_o suspect_v and_o bring_v to_o the_o light_n of_o the_o word_n to_o be_v thereby_o scrutinous_o accurat_o and_o impartial_o try_v least_o self-love_n in_o such_o a_o case_n bribe_v as_o it_o be_v and_o bias_n the_o person_n judgement_n and_o light_n 2_o when_o conscience_n be_v pretend_v in_o minute_n small_a petty_a and_o comparative_o inconsiderable_a thing_n while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n little_a or_o no_o conscience_n at_o all_o be_v make_v of_o but_o vast_a and_o unlimited_a latitud_n be_v take_v in_o the_o most_o momentuous_a and_o weighty_a thing_n of_o religion_n as_o the_o pharisee_n pretend_v conscience_n in_o tithing_n the_o small_a herb_n as_o mint_n anise_v and_o rue_v while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o pass_v over_o without_o make_v any_o bone_n of_o they_o judgement_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o be_v strain_v at_o gnat_n and_o swallow_v of_o camel_n 3_o when_o conscience_n be_v pretend_v for_o man_n tenacious_a adhere_n to_o human_a tradition_n while_o in_o the_o meantime_n they_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o make_v void_a the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o the_o same_o pharisee_n do_v for_o which_o out_o lord_n with_o holy_a severity_n inveigh_v against_o they_o 4_o when_o conscience_n be_v pretend_v for_o not_o shed_v the_o blood_n of_o innocent_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o the_o same_o thing_n be_v adventure_v on_o and_o wicked_o per-petrated_n when_o they_o come_v in_o competition_n with_o man_n worldly_a wealth_n or_o preferment_n or_o with_o the_o gratify_n of_o great_a one_o in_o order_n to_o the_o former_a as_o it_o be_v with_o pilate_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o condemn_v christ_n of_o who_o innocence_n he_o be_v thorough_o convince_v and_o according_o do_v thrice_o over_o hear_v public_a testimony_n to_o it_o yet_o when_o he_o be_v tell_v that_o if_o he_o do_v let_v he_o go_v and_o condemn_v he_o not_o to_o death_n he_o be_v not_o caesar_n friend_n he_o forthwith_o proceed_v to_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n and_o deliver_v he_o to_o the_o persecute_v and_o murder_v jew_n to_o be_v crucify_v and_o poor_a wretch_n he_o imagine_v that_o the_o silly_a shift_n of_o wash_v his_o hand_n in_o water_n will_v wash_v and_o purge_v his_o deep_o ●_o fill_v conscience_n from_o the_o guilt_n and_o pollution_n contract_v by_o shed_v of_o that_o innocent_a and_o most_o precious_a bloo●_n bu●_n it_o stick_v fast_o to_o and_o be_v more_o stiff_o barkn_v on_o his_o conscience_n then_o to_o be_v so_o easy_o wash_v off_o &_o with_o such_o poor_a and_o pitiful_a shift_n do_v such_o man_n think_v or_o fancy_v to_o pacify_v their_o conscience_n and_o to_o purge_v they_o from_o the_o defilement_n of_o the_o great_a most_o clamant_fw-la and_o horrid_a crime_n if_o pilate_n have_v any_o real_a demur_v in_o his_o conscience_n about_o the_o thing_n as_o very_o probable_o he_o have_v his_o counteracting_a it_o on_o so_o base_a and_o unworthy_a account_n and_o then_o foolish_o fancie_v that_o by_o such_o a_o empty_a ceremony_n as_o wash_v his_o hand_n in_o water_n he_o can_v be_v wash_v from_o the_o guilt_n of_o so_o atrocious_a a_o crime_n be_v high_a aggravation_n of_o it_o 5_o when_o man_n pretend_v conscience_n as_o the_o reason_n of_o their_o not_o commit_v the_o least_o sin_n nay_o of_o their_o not_o do_v something_n that_o be_v very_o debateable_a whether_o they_o be_v sin_n or_o not_o while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o make_v no_o conscience_n to_o stretch_v forth_o their_o hand_n to_o ●ay_n with_o a_o high_a hand_n to_o adventure_v on_o the_o commission_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v incontravertable_o very_o great_a and_o gross_a as_o the_o pharisee_n pretend_v conscience_n for_o their_o not_o go_v to_o the_o judgement_n hall_n lest_o forsooth_o they_o shall_v be_v defile_v and_o so_o unfit_a to_o eat_v the_o passover_n who_o yet_o make_v no_o scruple_n ma●ciously_o to_o imbrue_v their_o wicked_a hand_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o person_n that_o be_v god_n and_o typify_v by_o the_o passover_n 6_o when_o conscience_n or_o a_o conscientious_a regard_n be_v pretend_v for_o divine_a institution_n and_o ordinance_n mere_o and_o main_o from_o pickque_fw-mi and_o prejudice_n at_o the_o most_o tender_a and_o conscientious_a person_n as_o if_o their_o warrantable_a and_o consistent_a practice_n be_v the_o gross_a violation_n and_o great_a vi●ifyings_n of_o they_o and_o plain_a inconsistency_n with_o a_o just_a regard_n for_o they_o how_o often_o thus_o do_v the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n quarrel_n with_o our_o lord_n and_o his_o disciple_n as_o breaker_n and_o profaner_n of_o the_o sabbath_n because_o of_o something_n do_v by_o he_o and_o they_o thereon_o not_o in_o the_o least_o in-compatible_a with_o the_o sanctification_n thereof_o as_o if_o they_o themselves_o have_v be_v more_o tender_a of_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o the_o sabbath_n then_o either_o the_o disciple_n or_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n be_v 7_o to_o give_v no_o more_o instance_n when_o conscience_n be_v pretend_v for_o keep_v and_o not_o break_v of_o sinful_a engadgement_n vow_n and_o oath_n wherewith_o man_n have_v rash_o bind_v themselves_o as_o suppose_v a_o man_n shall_v rash_o vow_v and_o swear_v that_o he_o will_v be_v avenge_v at_o the_o high_a rate_n on_o another_o because_o of_o either_o a_o imagine_a or_o real_a a_o lesser_a or_o great_a injury_n do_v he_o and_o as_o herod_n swear_v very_o inconsiderar_o and_o rash_o that_o he_o will_v give_v the_o dance_a daughter_n of_o the_o incestuous_a mother_n herodias_n whatever_o she_o shall_v ask_v of_o he_o even_o to_o the_o
half_a of_o his_o kingdom_n who_o ask_v at_o her_o mother_n instigation_n the_o head_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n which_o be_v of_o more_o worth_n than_o the_o whole_a let_v be_v the_o half_a of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o he_o judge_v himself_o bind_v by_o his_o oath_n to_o grant_v her_o desire_n according_o give_v order_v it_o be_v say_v for_o his_o oath_n sake_n to_o the_o executioner_n to_o behead_v he_o in_o the_o prison_n without_o any_o trial_n or_o so_o much_o as_o a_o hear_n though_o it_o be_v indeed_o against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o natural_a conscience_n he_o have_v be_v convince_v that_o he_o be_v not_o only_o a_o innocent_a but_o also_o a_o just_a man_n and_o holy_a and_o according_o observe_v he_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n enjoin_v he_o by_o john_n and_o hear_v he_o glad_o as_o if_o unlawful_a and_o sinful_a oath_n rash_o come_v under_o can_v in_o conscience_n bind_v man_n to_o act_v against_o the_o plain_a and_o most_o palpable_a dictate_v of_o their_o own_o conscience_n whereas_o they_o ought_v rather_o to_o repent_v and_o pray_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o such_o engadgement_n vow_n and_o oath_n and_o forthwith_o to_o break_v they_o since_o juramentum_fw-la nunquam_fw-la potest_fw-la esse_fw-la vinculum_fw-la iniquitatis_fw-la a_o oath_n can_v never_o be_v a_o bond_n of_o iniquity_n or_o oblige_v man_n in_o conscience_n to_o commit_v what_o be_v palpable_o a_o sin_n ten_o we_o will_v be_v aware_a that_o we_o do_v not_o inconsiderat_o rash_o and_o precipitant_o adventure_v upon_o any_o action_n or_o meddle_v with_o any_o bussiness_n especial_o of_o moment_n before_o deliberat_fw-la and_o serious_a consult_v with_o our_o conscience_n endeavour_v always_o to_o have_v it_o well_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n which_o either_o make_v many_o such_o act_n and_o meddling_n to_o be_v afterward_o reflect_v on_o with_o a_o challenge_v and_o disquiet_v conscience_n or_o tempt_v we_o to_o endeavour_v the_o byass_a and_o bribe_v as_o it_o be_v of_o our_o own_o conscience_n towards_o a_o sort_n of_o justify_v we_o in_o what_o we_o have_v do_v or_o if_o neither_o of_o these_o shall_v be_v which_o seldom_o come_v to_o pass_v we_o be_v great_o in_o hazard_n to_o be_v very_o loath_a reluctant_a and_o shy_a to_o hear_v and_o lay_v due_a weight_n upon_o the_o after_o animadversion_n and_o censure_n of_o our_o conscience_n upon_o these_o act_n and_o medling_n be_v over_o and_o by_o and_o not_o now_o reversible_a o_o how_o safe_a and_o sure_o may_v we_o be_v in_o all_o our_o act_n moving_n and_o medling_n and_o with_o how_o much_o peace_n may_v we_o reflect_v on_o they_o if_o we_o do_v always_o call_v and_o admit_v god_n testimony_n and_o our_o own_o conscience_n enlighten_v and_o inform_v by_o they_o to_o be_v our_o adviser_n and_o counselor_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o make_v many_o rugged_a disorderly_a irregular_a and_o unpeacable_a step_n in_o our_o walk_n that_o man_n only_o walk_v sure_o that_o walk_v upright_o in_o single_a and_o unbiased_a compliance_n with_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n and_o of_o his_o own_o conscience_n conform_v thereunto_o most_o certain_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o consultation_n with_o such_o counselor_n there_o be_v safety_n eleven_o we_o will_v careful_o take_v heed_n that_o we_o do_v not_o baffle_v and_o prostitute_v conscience_n either_o by_o swear_v at_o all_o by_o our_o conscience_n let_v be_v ordinarl_o and_o customary_o too_o much_o incident_a to_o many_o pro●est_a christian_n to_o the_o great_a scandal_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o beside_o the_o un-necessariness_a of_o it_o at_o least_o in_o most_o case_n be_v never_o in_o any_o case_n warrantable_a conscience_n though_o god_n deputy_n be_v but_o a_o creature_n as_o heaven_n earth_n and_o our_o head_n be_v math._n 5._o v._n 34_o 35_o 36._o by_o which_o we_o ought_v not_o at_o all_o to_o swear_v be_v express_o forbid_v by_o the_o lord_n to_o do_v so_o and_o so_o never_o to_o be_v swear_v by_o swear_v being_n a_o piece_n and_o a_o very_a solemn_a piece_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o often_o put_v for_o the_o whole_a worship_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n where_o we_o be_v call_v to_o swear_v by_o he_o only_o deut._n 6._o v_o 13._o and_o 20._o v_o 10._o or_o where_o swear_v by_o it_o be_v much_o or_o altogether_o abstain_v from_o &_o it_o may_v be_v somewhat_o abhor_v yet_o we_o will_v not_o there_fw-mi to_o debase_v vilify_v and_o as_o i_o say_v to_o prostitute_v conscience_n ordinary_o &_o on_o every_o light_n &_o trivial_a occasion_n by_o say_v in_o conscience_n or_o on_o my_o conscience_n which_o in_o common_a discourse_n without_o any_o the_o least_o necessity_n be_v sure_o more_o than_o yea_o and_o nay_o and_o so_o according_a to_o the_o lord_n own_o determination_n precisly_a to_o be_v stand_v too_o come_v of_o evil_a neither_o will_v they_o real_o be_v find_v to_o be_v among_o the_o tender_a or_o most_o true_o religious_a and_o conscientious_a person_n whatever_o be_v their_o profession_n of_o or_o pretension_n to_o religion_n or_o conscience_n to_o who_o this_o be_v most_o familiar_a for_o by_o this_o customary_a and_o habitual_a solemn_a assert_v every_o light_n minute_n and_o trifle_a matter_n when_o withal_o it_o be_v offensive_a to_o tender_a ear_n man_n may_v be_v tempt_v in_o other_o thing_n to_o make_v too_o bold_a with_o their_o conscience_n which_o they_o thus_o debase_v if_o not_o even_o upon_o such_o petty_a occasion_n now_o and_o then_o to_o swear_v by_o it_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a tender_a thing_n and_o will_v be_v very_o tender_o deal_v with_o and_o in_o nothing_o in_o the_o least_o bourded_a or_o dally_v with_o and_o we_o be_v express_o command_v to_o abstain_v from_o all_o appearance_n of_o evil_n 1_o thes._n 5._o v._n 22._o twelve_o and_o final_o we_o will_v by_o all_o mean_n take_v heed_n and_o beware_v that_o we_o do_v not_o mock_v deride_v or_o flout_v at_o conscience_n and_o conscientious_a person_n which_o no_o man_n that_o have_v any_o conscience_n will_v dare_v to_o do_v no●_n to_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o nay_o the_o atheist_n himself_o as_o sir_n charles_n wools_o say_v well_o can_v with_o all_o his_o skill_n disband_v his_o own_o fear_n nor_o run_v away_o from_o his_o conscience_n no_o more_o than_o he_o can_v run_v away_o from_o himself_o he_o find_v season_n wherein_o he_o smart_v under_o the_o lash_n of_o it_o no●_n take_v up_o entertain_v and_o harbour_v any_o prejudice_n and_o pique_n at_o they_o as_o if_o such_o by_o the_o tenderness_n doubt_n and_o scruple_n of_o their_o conscience_n disturb_v the_o repose_n peace_n tranquillity_n and_o free_a act_n of_o all_o the_o country_n corporation_n and_o society_n great_a and_o small_a wherein_o they_o live_v and_o make_v a_o very_a unpleasant_a unchearful_a and_o disquiet_v life_n to_o the_o person_n themselves_o or_o to_o think_v that_o it_o be_v a_o great_a advantage_n to_o the_o world_n that_o all_o such_o person_n be_v out_o of_o it_o or_o cluster_v together_o by_o themselves_o only_o in_o some_o remote_a corner_n of_o it_o for_o who_o nice_a and_o straight_o lace_v as_o they_o call_v it_o conscience_n and_o its_o inquiry_n scruple_n and_o doubt_n they_o can_v get_v leave_n to_o live_v quiet_a and_o to_o act_v with_o that_o freedom_n they_o will_v be_v at_o alas_o if_o such_o have_v their_o desire_n and_o all_o doubt_n check_n and_o restraint_n of_o conscience_n be_v remove_v from_o man_n what_o confusion_n disorder_n and_o distraction_n will_v the_o world_n run_v into_o how_o instant_o will_v it_o be_v turn_v into_o a_o very_a shambles_n how_o will_v man_n the_o great_a part_n of_o man_n turn_v like_o roar_a lion_n and_o raven_a wolf_n as_o cruel_a tiger_n or_o savage_a wild_a boar_n one_o to_o another_o how_o will_v it_o be_v fill_v with_o violence_n rapine_n and_o blood_n how_o will_v the_o great_a and_o most_o abominable_a villainy_n walk_v up_o and_o down_o in_o it_o in_o the_o very_a street_n and_o concurse_n of_o the_o people_n un_fw-fr control_v barefaced_a not_o in_o masquerad_a or_o under_o any_o disguise_n how_o will_v reasonable_a man_n be_v as_o so_o many_o incarnate_a devil_n or_o bruit_n beast_n such_o will_v take_v heed_n that_o this_o be_v not_o find_v to_o be_v the_o interpretative_a language_n of_o these_o thought_n o_o that_o there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n god_n deputy_n in_o man_n in_o the_o world_n and_o o_o that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o god_n to_o appoint_v commissional_a and_o establish_v such_o deputy_n under_o he_o i_o shall_v not_o deny_v have_v plain_o assert_v it_o before_o that_o a_o ill_a inform_v conscience_n wait_v especial_o with_o any_o forwardness_n may_v make_v very_o sad_a work_n among_o man_n and_o prove_v a_o very_a troublesome_a and_o cumbersome_a neighbour_n but_o alas_o why_o shall_v
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
natural_a conscience_n and_o not_o only_o do_v thing_n sinful_a but_o take_v pleasure_n in_o they_o that_o do_v they_o therefore_o they_o be_v give_v up_o to_o do_v great_a thing_n without_o check_n or_o challenge_v hence_o it_o be_v thus_o in_o part_n at_o least_o with_o many_o professor_n within_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o thwart_v with_o conscience_n and_o indeed_o a_o silent_a and_o dumb_a conscience_n be_v a_o great_a plague_n for_o if_o it_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o reprover_n and_o speak_v not_o man_n nay_o even_o godly_a man_n may_v and_o will_v sleep_v on_o as_o david_n after_o the_o go_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o his_o light_n and_o blunt_v the_o edge_n of_o his_o conscience_n sleep_v long_o enough_o till_o conscience_n at_o last_o rouse_v he_o up_o hence_o also_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o some_o conscience_n which_o be_v sear_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o conscience_n be_v flesh_n or_o of_o a_o fleshly_a substance_n only_o he_o make_v the_o comparison_n that_o as_o a_o man_n flesh_n be_v sensible_a of_o and_o affect_v with_o the_o prick_n of_o a_o pin_n so_o be_v conscience_n with_o sin_n while_o tender_a but_o as_o the_o flesh_n of_o a_o man_n or_o beast_n when_o it_o be_v sear_v or_o burn_v a_o considerable_a thirst_n will_v not_o much_o if_o at_o all_o affect_v it_o so_o be_v conscience_n when_o stupefy_v and_o make_v senseless_a by_o multiply_a sin_n against_o light_n it_o grow_v so_o cauterise_v and_o sear_v that_o hardly_o any_o sin_n or_o challenge_v for_o sin_n be_v feel_v 3._o man_n want_v not_o a_o conscience_n though_o they_o hear_v it_o not_o always_o speak_v for_o conscience_n may_v often_o be_v speak_v when_o they_o take_v not_o head_n to_o it_o as_o be_v abundant_o clear_a in_o david_n and_o josephs_n brethren_n for_o that_o which_o be_v the_o death_n evil_a of_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v sometime_o be_v the_o sore_a and_o dangerous_a sickness_n and_o distemper_n of_o a_o child_n of_o god_n and_o though_o conscience_n may_v speak_v but_o soft_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o thereafter_o it_o will_v speak_v loud_o and_o make_v it_o know_v that_o it_o speak_v when_o it_o be_v not_o listen_v unto_o the_o day_n come_v when_o the_o book_n will_v be_v open_v and_o conscience_n will_v speak_v plain_o smart_o and_o home_n and_o it_o concern_v you_o all_o to_o know_v that_o conscience_n be_v not_o absent_a when_o it_o be_v quiet_a but_o that_o it_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v to_o purpose_n in_o due_a time_n and_o that_o as_o a_o party_n with_o who_o there_o be_v no_o try_v till_o it_o come_v before_o the_o great_a judge_n and_o then_o it_o will_v give_v in_o what_o it_o have_v to_o say_v and_o it_o will_v then_o be_v evident_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o the_o profane_v person_n who_o most_o cauterise_v it_o by_o go_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o its_o light_n and_o suggestion_n the_o 2._o use_n speak_v to_o you_o that_o live_v at_o random_n take_v great_a liberty_n and_o latitude_n to_o yourselves_o beside_o the_o rule_n o_o do_v you_o believe_v and_o remember_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n within_o you_o and_o that_o it_o will_v call_v you_o to_o a_o reckon_a sure_o if_o you_o do_v in_o good_a earnest_n you_o will_v be_v other_o manner_n of_o man_n it_o be_v general_o grant_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o all_o and_o the_o profane_v will_n have_v conscience_n often_o in_o their_o mouth_n and_o indeed_o their_o conscience_n be_v little_a worth_n when_o they_o stand_v in_o no_o awe_n of_o it_o but_o rather_o trample_v on_o it_o let_v i_o tell_v you_o the_o great_a light_n you_o have_v and_o the_o more_o mean_n and_o warning_n you_o be_v privilege_v with_o the_o great_a will_v be_v the_o aggravation_n of_o your_o guilt_n and_o the_o more_o dreadful_a will_v be_v your_o ditty_n and_o doom_n from_o god_n and_o from_o your_o own_o conscience_n if_o conscience_n will_v be_v a_o impartial_a witness_n and_o severe_a judge_n against_o all_o even_o heathen_n who_o never_o hear_v the_o gospel_n o_o then_o what_o access_n will_v it_o have_v terrible_o to_o reprove_v condemn_v smite_v and_o gnaw_v you_o that_o live_v under_o the_o gospel_n and_o hear_v the_o word_n daily_o many_o of_o you_o have_v some_o stickle_a and_o stir_v of_o conscience_n within_o you_o but_o alace_o you_o know_v not_o what_o it_o mean_v and_o will_v be_v quite_o of_o it_o but_o from_o this_o word_n be_v exhort_v to_o know_v who_o have_v appoint_v it_o and_o for_o what_o end_v it_o be_v appoint_v and_o make_v use_n of_o its_o warn_n 〈◊〉_d for_o other_o that_o know_v it_o and_o go_v on_o sleep_v secure_o in_o your_o sin_n i_o must_v say_v this_o to_o you_o that_o the_o more_o knowledge_n you_o have_v of_o it_o it_o will_v certain_o make_v you_o to_o have_v the_o more_o dreadful_a waken_n when_o all_o the_o kindred_n of_o the_o earth_n shall_v howl_v at_o the_o see_v of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o stand_v tremble_a at_o his_o presence_n o_o what_o a_o scrich_n and_o cry_n will_v conscience_n have_v in_o that_o day_n loud_o i_o conceive_v in_o some_o respect_n than_o the_o trumpet_n itself_o set_v home_o the_o truth_n of_o challenge_n bear_v witness_n of_o the_o fact_n and_o represent_v the_o horror_n terror_n and_o torment_n abide_v they_o therefore_o think_v on_o it_o o_o think_v on_o it_o all_o you_o who_o continue_v in_o sin_n and_o will_v not_o be_v reclaim_v who_o mock_v at_o all_o warning_n and_o break_v all_o bond_n and_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o discipline_n you_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o shake_v off_o the_o bo●d_n of_o conscience_n but_o it_o shall_v bind_v you_o as_o the_o colar_n of_o your_o coat_n and_o keep_v you_o bind_v till_o you_o be_v ●isted_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o god_n use_v 3_o see_v you_o have_v a_o conscience_n let_v it_o not_o be_v silent_a idle_a and_o usle●_n but_o put_v it_o to_o speak_v and_o do_v you_o hear_v what_o it_o say_v and_o take_v you_o warning_n from_o it_o it_o will_v not_o be_v bribe_v bud_a nor_o boast_v it_o be_v a_o sore_a matter_n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n and_o never_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o it_o nor_o of_o what_o it_o say_v i_o shall_v now_o only_o see_v there_o be_v some_o good_a and_o some_o evil_a conscience_n as_o they_o be_v or_o be_v not_o inform_v beseech_v you_o to_o study_v to_o have_v a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n especial_o since_o where_o it_o be_v well_o inform_v it_o can_v easy_o be_v bud_v nor_o soon_o prevail_v with_o to_o suffer_v thing_n to_o come_v under_o debate_n and_o controversy_n wherein_o it_o be_v clear_a a_o just_a regard_n too_o and_o the_o right_n use-making_a of_o conscience_n will_v notable_o promove_v holiness_n and_o nothing_o ready_o do_v more_o obstruct_v it_o then_o the_o not_o take_v heed_n to_o conscience_n and_o not_o lay_v due_a weight_n on_o what_o it_o say_v though_o many_o of_o you_o do_v now_o look_v on_o it_o as_o nothing_o or_o a_o thing_n of_o little_a moment_n yet_o you_o will_v find_v it_o to_o be_v a_o great_o momentanious_a thing_n o_o that_o god_n who_o have_v give_v we_o conscience_n may_v be_v gracious_o please_v to_o give_v the_o right_a use_n of_o they_o sermon_n ii_o act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n if_o we_o take_v a_o view_n of_o and_o look_v through_o christian_n and_o professor_n of_o religion_n that_o may_v have_v the_o root_n of_o the_o matter_n in_o they_o and_o may_v in_o charity_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v effectual_o call_v there_o will_v be_v find_v as_o great_a a_o gradual_a difference_n among_o they_o as_o among_o man_n of_o any_o other_o call_v whatsoever_o and_o if_o we_o will_v compare_v they_o general_o with_o the_o apostle_n as_o to_o the_o constant_a vigorous_a drive_v of_o this_o notable_a and_o noble_a design_n there_o will_v be_v find_v great_a in-equality_n and_o much_o lamentable_a un-likness_a herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n this_o be_v his_o great_a work_n and_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o sweet_a work_n yea_o a_o short_a sum_n and_o compend_v of_o a_o christian_n life_n when_o we_o discourse_v last_o from_o this_o text_n and_o have_v draw_v some_o general_a doctrine_n from_o it_o for_o clear_v the_o word_n we_o speak_v more_o particular_o to_o this_o doctrine_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o their_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o and_o affect_v man_n for_o it_o some_o thing_n
duty_n as_o it_o be_v with_o these_o of_o who_o the_o lord_n speak_v john_n 16._o 2._o the_o time_n come_v when_o whosoever_o kill_v you_o will_v think_v that_o he_o do_v god_n service_n though_o a_o err_a conscience_n be_v not_o so_o proper_o to_o be_v call_v conscience_n for_o it_o rather_o give_v offence_n then_o edify_v yet_o this_o conscience_n such_o as_o it_o be_v put_v a_o man_n into_o a_o strait_a that_o he_o can_v neither_o do_v nor_o forbear_v that_o be_v it_o necessary_o while_o it_o remain_v involve_v he_o in_o sin_n whether_o he_o do_v or_o forbear_v hence_o it_o be_v say_v of_o such_o a_o conscience_n ligat_fw-la sed_fw-la non_fw-la obligat_fw-la it_o bind_v up_o the_o man_n but_o do_v not_o oblige_v for_o the_o man_n that_o have_v th●s_o err_a conscience_n make_v he_o think_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o follow_v the_o impulse_n of_o his_o conscience_n sin_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o suppo●e_v it_o be_v in_o persecute_v or_o kill_v t●e_v servant_n of_o god_n which_o he_o think_v good_a service_n neither_o will_v the_o error_n of_o his_o conscience_n excuse_v he_o here_o because_o he_o shall_v have_v endeavour_v to_o have_v it_o better_a in●_n for_o these_o that_o sin_n in_o the_o law_n shall_v be_v judge_v by_o the_o law_n and_o if_o he_o forbear_v to_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n he_o sin_v against_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v god_n mind_n which_o it_o direct_v and_o his_o conscience_n be_v to_o he_o in_o place_n of_o god_n he_o be_v guilty_a as_o if_o what_o he_o do_v be_v do_v direct_o and_o immediate_o against_o god_n for_o to_o he_o it_o be_v so_o and_o he_o think_v so_o and_o thus_o through_o his_o own_o cuipable_a accession_n it_o lay_v a_o necessity_n of_o sin_v on_o he_o whether_o he_o do_v or_o forbear_v yet_o it_o never_o oblidge_v nor_o can_v oblige_v he_o to_o go_v contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o suppose_v he_o think_v that_o such_o a_o minister_n who_o be_v a_o honest_a and_o faithful_a man_n shall_v be_v depose_v or_o excommunicate_v it_o do_v not_o oblige_v he_o to_o persecute_v a_o innocent_a and_o honest_a man_n and_o yet_o if_o he_o endeavour_v it_o no●_n he_o sin_v against_o his_o conscience_n in_o countenance_v of_o that_o person_n which_o he_o in_o his_o misapprehension_n judge_v to_o be_v sin_n this_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v somewhat_o strange_a and_o paradoxal_a but_o it_o be_v the_o woeful_a effect_n and_o bitter_a fruit_n of_o the_o want_n of_o light_n and_o of_o a_o well-informed_n conscience_n and_o it_o flow_v not_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n nor_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n but_o from_o our_o own_o corruption_n making_n no_o use_v or_o a_o ill_a use_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o superior_a of_o the_o conscience_n so_o that_o there_o be_v hardly_o a_o worse_a thing_n than_o one_fw-mi err_v conscience_n because_o whether_o the_o man_n that_o have_v it_o forbear_v or_o do_v to_o he_o it_o be_v sin_n only_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a it_o oblidge_v to_o do_v or_o forbear_v for_o when_o the_o word_n determine_v not_o conscience_n though_o misinform_v cast_v the_o balance_n to_o the_o side_n which_o it_o judge_v to_o be_v necessary_a as_o for_o instance_n it_o a_o man_n think_v it_o a_o sin_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o the_o head_n un-covered_n he_o be_v oblige_v to_o cover_v his_o head_n and_o contrary_o for_o conscience_n there_o cast_v the_o balance_n but_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v unlawful_a on_o the_o matter_n it_o may_v bind_v he_o up_o while_o it_o remain_v in_o a_o error_n so_o as_o he_o can_v without_o sin_n counteract_v its_o dictat_fw-la but_o it_o never_o oblidge_v he_o to_o sin_n 2._o a_o opinionative_n conscience_n be_v not_o a_o good_a guide_n that_o be_v when_o a_o man_n have_v some_o sort_n of_o light_n or_o apprehension_n of_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v duty_n yet_o fear_n that_o it_o may_v not_o be_v duty_n and_o have_v some_o 〈◊〉_d or_o 〈◊〉_d about_o the_o matter_n for_o 1._o this_o be_v not_o faith_n but_o opinion_n and_o in_o matter_n of_o faith_n opinion_n can_v be_v a_o ground_n to_o rest_v upon_o therefore_o rom._n 14._o 5._o every_o man_n ●ughe_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n 2._o in_o matter_n of_o practice_n the_o impulse_n of_o a_o opinionate_v conscience_n will_v not_o warrant_v we_o for_o when_o a_o man_n hesitat_v he_o can_v do_v in_o faith_n therefore_o to_o do_v it_o be_v sin_n to_o he_o because_o he_o have_v not_o persuasion_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n as_o to_o practice_n he_o be_v like_o the_o man_n that_o have_v the_o err_v conscience_n he_o can_v neither_o do_v nor_o forbear_v but_o he_o sin_v 3._o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o truth_n not_o fundamental_a opinion_n may_v have_v weight_n with_o he_o and_o sway_n he_o to_o that_o which_o be_v most_o probable_a and_o have_v most_o conveniency_n with_o it_o though_o in_o matter_n of_o practice_n it_o be_v otherways_o and_o it_o give_v conscience_n peace_n in_o this_o respect_n when_o that_o which_o have_v most_o probability_n in_o it_o as_o i_o have_v just_a now_o say_v be_v incline_v to_o 3._o a_o doubt_v conscience_n of_o some_o affinity_n with_o the_o former_a which_o leave_v a_o man_n in_o a_o hover_a or_o suspense_n that_o he_o know_v not_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n or_o if_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v sin_n or_o not_o certain_o here_o a_o man_n be_v bind_v not_o to_o do_v doubt_o for_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o do_v rom._n 14._o 23._o and_o yet_o there_o be_v hazard_n in_o forbear_v if_o the_o thing_n be_v duty_n yea_o in_o this_o case_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o sin_v bu●_n still_o of_o the_o man_n own_o contract_n when_o there_o be_v not_o a_o mid_n but_o either_o the_o man_n must_v do_v or_o forbear_v yet_o in_o this_o case_n its_o best_a for_o a_o man_n to_o betake_v himself_o to_o the_o safe_a side_n and_o to_o hazard_v on_o suffer_v rather_o than_o on_o sin_n as_o for_o example_n a_o man_n must_v either_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n whereof_o he_o doubt_v or_o be●n_a hazard_n of_o lose_v much_o or_o all_o that_o he_o have_v in_o the_o world_n he_o know_v that_o suffering_n simple_o consider_v be_v no_o sin_n and_o he_o be_v some_o way_n matter_n to_o say_v so_o of_o his_o own_o suffering_n but_o not_o of_o his_o do_v since_o he_o doubt_v and_o his_o doubt_v lay_v this_o obligation_n on_o he_o rather_o to_o abstain_v then_o to_o do_v and_o to_o take_v his_o hazard_n of_o suffering_n for_o in_o dubiis_fw-la tutius_fw-la est_fw-la abstine●e_fw-la and_o in_o this_o case_n no_o man_n authority_n can_v oblige_v and_o bind_v the_o conscience_n to_o a_o thing_n as_o duty_n neither_o can_v it_o be_v loose_v by_o mere_a authority_n or_o respect_n to_o man_n when_o it_o doubt_v because_o no_o man_n mere_a authority_n can_v quiet_v and_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n nor_o keep_v the_o man_n skaithless_a before_o god_n when_o on_o such_o a_o account_n he_o do_v any_o thing_n doubt_o a_o 4._o sort_n be_v a_o scruple_a conscience_n which_o differ_v from_o the_o former_a in_o this_o that_o it_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o main_a of_o duty_n but_o scruple_v and_o be_v unclear_a in_o some_o accidental_a thing_n that_o go_v along_o with_o it_o as_o for_o instance_n when_o one_o will_v pray_v and_o apprehend_v that_o in_o pray_v he_o will_v take_v god_n name_n in_o vain_a because_o it_o may_v be_v some_o blasphemous_a thought_n be_v inject_v into_o his_o mind_n or_o when_o a_o man_n be_v about_o some_o necessary_a duty_n of_o his_o lawful_a call_n and_o have_v some_o thing_n like_o a_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n to_o pray_v which_o haunt_v and_o some_o way_n vex_v he_o this_o be_v a_o scruple_n but_o upon_o a_o light_a ground_n and_o have_v little_a or_o no_o reason_n for_o it_o yet_o it_o be_v bear_v in_o with_o violence_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o case_n a_o man_n be_v oblige_v rather_o to_o go_v over_o the_o scruple_n and_o follow_v his_o duty_n for_o although_o he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o satisfy_v his_o conscience_n by_o reason_n in_o this_o case_n as_o in_o the_o former_a yet_o when_o the_o duty_n be_v clear_a he_o shall_v trample_v upon_o what_o will_v hinder_v he_o and_o go_v on_o with_o the_o duty_n and_o in_o so_o do_v he_o trample_v not_o upon_o his_o conscience_n but_o upon_o that_o which_o come_v in_o to_o mar_v he_o in_o his_o duty_n and_o follow_v or_o to_o speak_v so_o dog_v his_o conscience_n a_o 5_o sort_n be_v a_o weak_a and_o infirm_a conscience_n
suspicious-like_a when_o the_o conscience_n be_v overwell_n please_v and_o when_o conscience_n and_o man_n humour_n be_v both_o please_v together_o and_o when_o corruption_n do_v not_o side_n and_o take_v part_n against_o it_o this_o i_o say_v be_v a_o shrewd_a evidence_n that_o conscience_n be_v err_v for_o when_o a_o man_n be_v go_v aright_o about_o his_o duty_n corruption_n will_v be_v against_o he_o but_o when_o all_o be_v silent_a it_o be_v no_o good_a token_n when_o paul_n be_v a_o delight_v himself_o in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n there_o be_v 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 2._o it_o may_v be_v know_v by_o this_o when_o conscience_n have_v more_o contentment_n and_o peace_n and_o great_a delight_n and_o fainness_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a suppose_a duty_n then_o in_o all_o other_o duty_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n think_v nothing_o of_o but_o undervalu_v infant-baptism_n and_o must_v needs_o be_v baptize_v over_o again_o and_o when_o he_o be_v rebaptise_v he_o have_v more_o satisfaction_n and_o as_o he_o think_v more_o comfort_n in_o that_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n then_o in_o all_o other_o duty_n he_o go_v about_o though_o his_o rebaptise_v be_v indeed_o no_o duty_n call_v for_o from_o he_o that_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o err_a conscience_n for_o if_o it_o be_v the_o peace_n comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n he_o will_v have_v comfort_n if_o not_o alike_o comfort_v in_o all_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n so_o when_o some_o man_n have_v more_o delight_n in_o make_v other_o to_o become_v antinomian_o or_o separatist_n or_o quaker_n they_o be_v of_o such_o a_o judgement_n porswasion_n and_o sect_n themselves_o then_o in_o gain_v man_n fre●_n popery_n to_o be_v protestant_n or_o it_o may_v be_v from_o be_v mere_o natural_a man_n to_o be_v in_o good_a earnest_n exercise_v to_o godliness_n and_o like_o the_o pharisee_n will_v compass_v sea_n and_o land_n for_o that_o end_n not_o to_o make_v they_o child_n of_o god_n but_o to_o proselyte_n they_o strong_a to_o their_o own_o sect_n that_o be_v a_o shrewd_a token_n that_o its_o man_n particular_a interest_n and_o humour_n that_o sway_v they_o more_o than_o conscience_n do_v or_o if_o conscience_n have_v influence_n here_o it_o be_v a_o erroneous_a and_o mistake_a one_o 3._o it_o may_v be_v know_v by_o a_o man_n more_o common_a and_o ordinary_a frame_n and_o way_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v that_o conscience_n put_v a_o man_n to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o to_o change_v his_o way_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a indeed_o to_o the_o better_a when_o yet_o it_o do_v not_o set_v he_o on_o endeavour_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n to_o change_v his_o way_n and_o life_n in_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o it_o for_o as_o true_a grace_n be_v uniform_a so_o a_o well_o inform_v and_o true_o good_a conscience_n make_v a_o man_n endeavour_v a_o universal_a and_o uniform_a change_n in_o his_o way_n and_o without_o all_o doubt_n it_o be_v as_o clear_v a_o duty_n to_o pray_v to_o search_v his_o conscience_n to_o walk_v without_o give_v offence_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n to_o meditate_v thereon_o to_o injure_v no_o man_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o he_o will_v be_v strict_a in_o such_o a_o particular_a but_o pray_v no_o more_o wait_v no_o more_o upon_o ordinance_n no_o better_o than_o he_o have_v wont_a to_o do_v etc._n etc._n this_o look_v very_a like_o a_o err_a conscience_n for_o as_o i_o say_v just_a now_o conscience_n make_v not_o a_o man_n to_o change_v in_o one_o thing_n only_o but_o it_o put_v he_o to_o endeavour_v also_o a_o change_n in_o all_o therefore_o beware_v of_o such_o deceit_n for_o conscience_n be_v much_o abuse_v in_o this_o time_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o excellent_a thing_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o void_a of_o offence_n but_o it_o be_v a_o desperate_a thing_n to_o make_v a_o shoe-horn_n or_o stalking-horss_n of_o conscience_n to_o make_v it_o subserve_v our_o own_o humour_n and_o the_o carry_v on_o of_o our_o own_o particular_a interest_n or_o to_o leave_v the_o word_n and_o to_o pretend_v conscience_n and_o to_o be_v sway_v by_o interest_n under_o pretext_n of_o conscience_n there_o be_v great_a need_n then_o to_o look_v well_o to_o the_o word_n and_o to_o have_v the_o word_n and_o conscience_n go_v hand_n in_o hand_n together_o to_o keep_v near_o god_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o holy_a fear_n that_o conscience_n have_v not_o any_o thing_n wherewith_o it_o may_v charge_v we_o just_o sermon_n iii_o 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 many_o sad_a mistake_n about_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o the_o serious_a and_o zealous_a follow_v of_o holiness_n for_o man_n either_o diminish_v from_o holiness_n as_o to_o the_o extent_n of_o it_o or_o dispense_v with_o and_o take_v a_o liberty_n and_o latitude_n to_o themselves_o in_o the_o follow_n of_o it_o in_o this_o text_n we_o have_v a_o short_a and_o sweet_a sum_n of_o paul_n life_n a_o excellent_a copy_n and_o pattern_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n and_o conversation_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o a_o view_n of_o these_o two_o 1._o of_o his_o aim_n and_o design_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 and_o that_o in_o a_o universal_a extent_n always_o or_o at_o all_o time_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n 2._o of_o his_o manner_n of_o prosecute_a it_o herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o he_o be_v serious_o take_v up_o with_o it_o it_o be_v his_o great_a business_n his_o one_o thing_n as_o he_o call_v it_o phil._n 3._o 13._o we_o speak_v of_o these_o two_o general_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o their_o action_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o be_v offend_v with_o their_o miscarriage_n 2._o that_o man_n and_o woman_n and_o more_o especial_o believer_n ought_v so_o to_o live_v and_o if_o tender_a will_v aim_v so_o to_o live_v as_o they_o may_v be_v friend_n with_o their_o conscience_n and_o that_o there_o may_v be_v good_a term_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n betwixt_o they_o and_o their_o conscience_n that_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v no_o challenge_n against_o they_o in_o any_o thing_n of_o their_o walk_n either_o towards_o god_n or_o toward_a man_n this_o be_v clear_o and_o convince_o hold_v out_o in_o paul_n practice_n here_o who_o great_a aim_n design_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o his_o conscience_n may_v have_v nothing_o to_o say_v against_o he_o in_o duty_n relate_v either_o to_o god_n or_o to_o man_n in_o secret_a in_o private_a or_o in_o public_a this_o we_o prosecute_v a_o little_a and_o show_v you_o that_o there_o be_v a_o tie_n and_o obligation_n lie_v on_o man_n so_o to_o walk_v and_o to_o follow_v not_o a_o err_a and_o delude_a conscience_n but_o conscience_n right_o inform_v pouse_v accuse_v or_o excuse_v according_a to_o the_o word_n for_o it_o be_v conscience_n so_o qualify_v that_o be_v the_o rule_n subordinate_a to_o the_o infallible_o regulate_v rule_n of_o the_o word_n the_o use_v of_o the_o doctrine_n as_o we_o show_v be_v four_o the_o 1._o for_o instruction_n the_o 2._o for_o trial_n the_o 3._o for_o conviction_n or_o reproof_n the_o 4._o for_o exhortation_n we_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o the_o use_v of_o instruction_n the_o last_o day_n to_o which_o now_o we_o add_v that_o if_o man_n shall_v so_o walk_v as_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v nothing_o to_o charge_v they_o with_o nor_o to_o cast_v up_o to_o they_o wherein_o they_o have_v thwart_v with_o it_o then_o every_o man_n design_n in_o his_o christian_a walk_n ought_v to_o be_v as_o extensive_a as_o his_o conscience_n be_v in_o its_o office_n either_o in_o direct_v or_o in_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v otherways_o he_o can_v have_v peace_n in_o his_o way_n if_o he_o disperise_v with_o himself_o in_o any_o thing_n which_o his_o conscience_n do_v not_o dispense_v with_o he_o in_o and_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o have_v solid_a peace_n if_o he_o do_v otherways_o so_o than_o the_o walk_n of_o a_o christian_a ought_v to_o be_v equal_o and_o exact_o extend_v no_o less_o than_o be_v the_o conscience_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n beside_o what_o we_o say_v on_o this_o before_o anent_o have_v clearness_n from_o the_o word_n in_o the_o judgement_n and_o harken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n right_o inform_v we_o shall_v instance_n the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o a_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
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
a_o end_n not_o only_o to_o be_v lawful_a but_o even_o laudable_a we_o may_v be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o it_o allowe●h_v also_o of_o all_o or_o most_o midse_n without_o discrimination_n that_o lead_v to_o the_o attain_n of_o the_o end_n now_o 2_o to_o answer_v to_o the_o objection_n more_o direct_o a●d_v so_o to_o show_v how_o this_o be_v not_o in_o consistent_a neither_o with_o the_o doctrine_n nor_o with_o the_o use_n we_o say_v then_o 1._o that_o it_o be_v neither_o of_o these_o two_o last_o sort_n of_o thing_n we_o speak_v of_o that_o be_v mean_v when_o we_o say_v that_o a_o endeavour_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n for_o we_o speak_v of_o a_o conscience_n that_o mistake_v not_o and_o of_o a_o person_n that_o do_v not_o mistake_v his_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o though_o conscience_n prejudge_v a_o man_n of_o the_o comfortable_a application_n of_o this_o mark_n yet_o it_o cease_v not_o for_o that_o to_o be_v a_o mark._n 2_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o it_o as_o a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n we_o mean_v not_o so_o much_o of_o a_o person_n actual_a attainment_n as_o of_o his_o sincere_a endeavour_n when_o he_o dispense_v not_o with_o himself_o in_o any_o sin_n nor_o in_o the_o ommission_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n but_o be_v aim_v honest_o in_o every_o thing_n to_o approve_v himself_o to_o god_n as_o it_o be_v heb._n 13._o 18._o 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 willing_a to_o live_v honest_o the_o testimony_n be_v found_v more_o on_o the_o sincere_a aim_n and_o endeavour_v than_o what_o be_v actual_o attain_v 3ly_a in_o the_o doctrine_n we_o say_v a_o believer_n in_o a_o good_a frame_n will_v so_o aim_v to_o live_v as_o he_o may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o the_o objection_n suppose_v only_o that_o when_o he_o be_v not_o in_o a_o good_a frame_n he_o can_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o that_o we_o grant_v for_o he_o may_v indeed_o by_o his_o carnal_a frame_n and_o walk_v spoil_n and_o rob_v himself_o of_o the_o comfortable_a application_n of_o this_o mark_n and_o so_o there_o be_v no_o inconsistencie_n here_o 4_o this_o stand_v firm_o as_o a_o truth_n that_o though_o a_o believer_n have_v many_o other_o mark_n yet_o they_o can_v bear_v he_o comfortable_o through_o if_o he_o want_v this_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o it_o be_v so_o very_o necessary_a to_o a_o christian_a walk_n that_o a_o believer_n dare_v not_o conclude_v his_o sincerity_n when_o he_o contrary_a to_o his_o light_n dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o the_o commission_n of_o any_o know_a sin_n or_o in_o the_o ommission_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n the_o 3d._a use_n be_v of_o reproof_n and_o conviction_n if_o so_o be_v christian_n ought_v ●o_o to_o walk_v and_o when_o they_o be_v tender_a will_v so_o walk_v as_o in_o nothing_o they_o may_v offend_v their_o conscience_n then_o there_o be_v a_o 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3_o i_o will_v ask_v sin_z you_o never_o against_o conviction_n of_o your_o conscience_n according_a to_o that_o word_n rom._n 1._o ult_n who_o know_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o who_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n yet_o 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 will_v any_o of_o you_o dare_v to_o say_v but_o that_o you_o have_v be_v convince_v that_o drunkenness_n and_o tipple_a or_o the_o like_a be_v a_o sin_n and_o yet_o you_o have_v go_v on_o in_o it_o over_o that_o conviction_n 4_o have_v you_o not_o be_v challenge_v for_o sin_n and_o yet_o you_o have_v go_v over_o the_o belly_n of_o these_o challenge_n of_o conscience_n even_o when_o it_o have_v be_v present_o sting_v for_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o conscience_n have_v be_v put_v at_o you_o and_o pouss_v you_o to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n and_o say_v it_o be_v no_o time_n now_o to_o put_v it_o off_o and_o shift_v it_o yet_o have_v not_o these_o suggestion_n and_o challenge_n be_v slight_v and_o these_o poussing_n to_o duty_n smother_v and_o the_o spirit_n grieve_v 5thly_a have_v there_o be_v no_o engadgement_n sometime_o come_v under_o to_o abstain_v from_o such_o and_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o to_o perform_v such_o and_o such_o duty_n and_o have_v not_o all_o these_o engadgement_n be_v break_v even_o mere_o natural_a man_n have_v come_v this_o length_n as_o to_o come_v under_o such_o engadgement_n who_o yet_o have_v flidden_v back_o from_o they_o and_o violate_v they_o gross_o 6_o have_v you_o not_o have_v your_o own_o kind_n of_o spiritual_a exercise_n your_o outcrying_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n in_o fit_n of_o sickness_n or_o under_o hard_a and_o heavy_a cross_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o have_v you_o not_o continue_v in_o the_o same_o sin_n and_o if_o all_o these_o be_v clear_a can_v you_o deny_v that_o you_o have_v sin_v against_o conscience_n or_o 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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 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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 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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 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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 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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
to_o it_o or_o a_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o the_o word_n that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o ●in_a and_o conscience_n thereupon_o deter_v from_o it_o thus_o it_o differ_v from_o light_n simple_o consider_v in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v a_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o such_o ground_n as_o the_o judgement_n or_o light_n in_o the_o judgement_n lay_v down_o to_o or_o before_o it_o it_o be_v a_o answer_n that_o not_o only_o have_v truth_n in_o it_o which_o may_v be_v from_o light_n but_o its_o one_fw-mi answer_n as_o have_v a_o truth_n in_o it_o that_o be_v draw_v from_o such_o a_o ground_n warrand_a such_o and_o such_o a_o practice_n conscience_n look_v on_o it_o as_o god_n mind_n for_o direct_v it_o in_o its_o duty_n and_o on_o that_o account_n put_v on_o to_o it_o as_o to_o the_o 2d_o question_v how_o the_o conscience_n give_v this_o answer_n or_o how_o it_o make_v its_o sense_n and_o language_n of_o thing_n know_v in_o answer_v to_o it_o we_o will_v be_v sober_a and_o not_o curious_a no●_n more_o particular_a than_o we_o have_v ground_n for_o in_o short_a then_o we_o conceive_v that_o there_o be_v these_o 4._o way_n how_o and_o whereby_o conscience_n give_v it_o answer_n to_o let_v people_n know_v when_o it_o be_v please_v or_o displease_v 1._o when_o it_o bind_v and_o tie_v such_o or_o such_o a_o word_n import_v such_o or_o such_o a_o duty_n on_o a_o man_n that_o he_o can_v no_o way_n get_v himself_o rid_v of_o nor_o it_o shake_v off_o as_o when_o he_o be_v dispute_v and_o debate_v within_o himself_o whither_o such_o a_o thing_n shall_v be_v do_v or_o not_o do_v conscience_n answer_v on_o good_a ground_n and_o either_o bid_v he_o abstain_v or_o do_v and_o have_v a_o pour_v with_o it_o because_o the_o word_n of_o god_n command_v or_o forbid_v it_o and_o this_o be_v not_o only_o because_o there_o be_v a_o word_n for_o it_o or_o against_o it_o but_o clear_a light_n draw_v a_o conclusion_n from_o such_o a_o word_n whereupon_o the_o conscience_n bind_v it_o on_o the_o man_n so_o that_o it_o can_v be_v get_v shift_v nor_o shake_v off_o for_o we_o know_v that_o man_n may_v know_v many_o duty_n and_o yet_o not_o do_v they_o and_o upon_o the_o other_o hand_n that_o man_n may_v be_v stir_v or_o pouss_v on_o to_o do_v that_o which_o it_o be_v not_o god_n mind_n they_o shall_v do_v so_o than_o it_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n when_o the_o word_n and_o the_o conclusion_n of_o conscience_n be_v connect_v and_o join_v together_o so_o as_o the_o one_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o other_o and_o flow_v from_o the_o other_o and_o this_o be_v the_o most_o special_a way_n how_o conscience_n make_v its_o sense_n of_o thing_n know_v the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n a_o second_o way_n be_v by_o some_o secret_a discontent_n or_o restlessness_n in_o the_o conscience_n if_o a_o man_n do_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o be_v not_o duty_n or_o if_o he_o do_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v point_v out_o to_o he_o to_o be_v duty_n either_o through_o ignorance_n or_o inadvertancy_n the_o conscience_n then_o as_o it_o be_v hunt_v the_o man_n with_o challenge_n disquiet_v and_o make_v he_o restless_a till_o he_o practise_v such_o a_o duty_n or_o abstain_v from_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o this_o we_o find_v to_o have_v be_v often_o in_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o scripture_n they_o have_v have_v no_o rest_n till_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v do_v and_o such_o a_o thing_n abstain_v from_o which_o flow_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n accuse_v or_o breed_v discontent_n because_o of_o unanswerableness_a to_o the_o rule_n 3_o conscience_n have_v a_o way_n of_o signify_v its_o mind_n by_o make_v some_o impression_n of_o terror_n to_o back_o and_o second_v more_o than_o ordinary_a conviction_n of_o and_o threaten_n and_o challenge_v for_o sin_n when_o sin_n be_v commit_v conscience_n convince_v and_o challenge_v when_o this_o do_v not_o the_o turn_n upon_o the_o back_n thereof_o come_v the_o threaten_a and_o some_o fit_n of_o terror_n sometime_o the_o threaten_a be_v conditional_a sometime_o the_o peremptory_a certification_n be_v add_v sometime_o again_o the_o impression_n of_o the_o threaten_a will_v be_v more_o sensible_a sometime_o more_o insensible_a when_o conscience_n give_v advice_n and_o dictate_v from_o the_o word_n it_o make_v use_v of_o the_o command_n but_o in_o the_o sense_n we_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o it_o make_v use_v of_o the_o threaten_n as_o for_o instance_n it_o be_v say_v in_o the_o three_o command_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o hold_v he_o guiltless_a that_o take_v his_o name_n in_o vain_a now_o for_o any_o degree_n of_o this_o guilt_n conscience_n challenge_v and_o when_o that_o be_v slight_v thereupon_o conscience_n go_v on_o and_o make_v the_o threaten_a terrible_a for_o challenge_n bear_v in_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o conviction_n represent_v the_o threaten_n as_o more_o terrible_a and_o threaten_n bear_v in_o the_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n and_o hence_o be_v the_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n in_o some_o that_o wakn_v and_o raise_v a_o terrible_a storm_n in_o it_o a_o four_o way_n how_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n and_o make_v its_o mind_n know_v be_v by_o a_o inconceivable_a inward_a calmness_n peace_n serenity_n and_o tranquillity_n in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o when_o a_o man_n reflect_v on_o his_o do_v of_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n find_v it_o agreeable_a to_o the_o same_o all_o his_o terror_n evanish_v his_o mind_n be_v calm_v and_o he_o find_v much_o sweet_a peace_n delight_n and_o acquiesence_n in_o the_o thing_n this_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n all_o which_o have_v great_a need_n to_o be_v careful_o compare_v with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o that_o his_o mind_n therein_o be_v very_o clear_a because_o as_o there_o may_v be_v much_o bastard_n peace_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n so_o there_o may_v be_v many_o groundless_a challenge_n on_o the_o other_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n as_o for_o the_o 3d_o question_v what_o man_n be_v to_o do_v that_o they_o may_v find_v out_o and_o get_v a_o clear_a answer_n from_o their_o conscience_n or_o what_o be_v call_v for_o from_o they_o to_o find_v out_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n we_o shall_v answer_v this_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o something_o be_v to_o be_v do_v before_o we_o put_v ourselves_o to_o the_o search_n or_o conscience_n to_o give_v its_o answer_n two_o something_o must_v accompany_v this_o duty_n 3_o something_o be_v call_v for_o after_o this_o duty_n be_v do_v 1._o we_o be_v to_o do_v something_o before_o we_o put_v conscience_n to_o it_o to_o give_v its_o answer_n and_o 1._o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o man_n be_v well_o inform_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o thing_n in_o general_a for_o to_o come_v blind_o to_o conscience_n be_v to_o tempt_v it_o and_o make_v it_o a_o snare_n to_o ourselves_o therefore_o i_o say_v we_o shall_v be_v well_o inform_v to_o the_o end_n that_o conscience_n may_v have_v ground_n to_o give_v a_o clear_a answer_n for_o our_o conscience_n be_v like_o the_o judge_n and_o our_o understanding_n like_o the_o advocate_n that_o make_v the_o cause_n know_v and_o if_o all_o thing_n pro_fw-la and_o contra_fw-la for_o and_o against_o be_v not_o propose_v and_o discuss_v by_o the_o advocate_n conscience_n which_o be_v the_o judge_n can_v give_v a_o distinct_a answer_n or_o verdict_n this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o many_o conscience_n do_v err_v because_o there_o be_v not_o pain_n take_v to_o inform_v they_o 2_o when_o the_o judgement_n be_v inform_v man_n shall_v put_v the_o conscience_n to_o it_o to_o answer_v they_o shall_v not_o content_v themselves_o with_o this_o that_o they_o have_v fill_v their_o head_n with_o so_o many_o argument_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o shall_v let_v they_o sink_v down_o to_o the_o conscience_n and_o study_v to_o know_v what_o conscience_n think_v of_o they_o for_o conscience_n as_o we_o say_v before_o be_v some_o way_n beyond_o bare_a light_n therefore_o when_o we_o have_v get_v light_a in_o a_o thing_n we_o shall_v not_o hold_v there_o but_o take_v it_o aside_o and_o communicate_v the_o matter_n to_o conscience_n as_o the_o word_n be_v psal._n 4._o 4._o commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n there_o be_v a_o commune_n with_o other_o in_o speak_v with_o they_o a_o commune_n with_o book_n i●_n peruse_v they_o a_o commune_n with_o our_o inclination_n and_o affection_n and_o take_v notice_n what_o they_o will_v be_v at_o and_o a_o commune_n with_o our_o light_n if_o we_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o thing_n but_o beside_o all_o these_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
have_v not_o one_o word_n to_o speak_v but_o to_o they_o to_o who_o god_n speak_v a_o five_o and_o last_o case_n be_v when_o man_n be_v drive_v and_o stir_v up_o to_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n from_o a_o corrupt_a or_o selfie_v principle_n and_o for_o such_o or_o such_o a_o selfy_a end_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o man_n seek_v clearness_n and_o resolution_n from_o their_o conscience_n anent_o such_o one_fw-mi estate_n of_o life_n such_o a_o calling_n or_o station_n or_o anent_o the_o undertake_n of_o such_o a_o journey_n or_o voyage_n and_o be_v not_o put_v to_o seek_v that_o clearness_n anent_o they_o out_o of_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n but_o from_o respect_n only_o or_o main_o to_o their_o own_o interest_n profit_n pleasure_n or_o credit_n as_o it_o be_v with_o balaam_n numb_a 22._o 10._o that_o which_o do_v put_v he_o to_o ask_v god_n counsel_n be_v not_o regard_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n but_o love_n to_o the_o wage_n of_o 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clear_a in_o balaam_n therefore_o when_o the_o answer_n come_v contrary_a to_o their_o inclination_n or_o affection_n or_o to_o the_o selfie_a end_n that_o they_o have_v before_o they_o they_o will_v ask_v over_o again_o as_o balaam_n do_v hence_o james_n say_v chap._n 4._o v._n 3_o and_o 4._o you_o ask_v and_o receive_v not_o because_o you_o ask_v a_o miss_n to_o consume_v it_o upon_o your_o lust_n as_o man_n may_v seek_v to_o be_v assist_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n for_o the_o praise_n of_o man_n so_o they_o may_v seek_v to_o have_v conscience_n to_o be_v on_o their_o side_n to_o prevent_v a_o challenge_n from_o it_o and_o that_o they_o may_v entertain_v a_o carnal_o confident_a expectation_n of_o what_o they_o will_v be_v at_o thus_o carnal_o profane_a and_o wicked_a man_n have_v often_o seek_v advice_n of_o the_o lord_n prophet_n as_o they_o do_v jer._n 42._o 1_o 2._o in_o these_o and_o the_o like_a case_n man_n may_v take_v pain_n to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o 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business_n of_o their_o eternal_a state_n fall_v not_o under_o these_o debate_n and_o this_o we_o say_v he_o do_v in_o his_o sovereignty_n for_o these_o and_o ●he_v like_o wise_a and_o holy_a end_n 1._o that_o he_o may_v empty_a and_o humble_a his_o own_o people_n that_o when_o they_o see_v they_o can_v win_v to_o clearness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o a_o particular_a of_o so_o little_a moment_n and_o consequence_n by_o make_v that_o to_o be_v so_o much_o their_o exercise_n he_o may_v hide_v pride_n from_o their_o eye_n and_o lay_v they_o low_o before_o he_o 2_o as_o in_o this_o he_o mind_v their_o humble_v so_o their_o upstirring_a by_o such_o mean_n he_o put_v they_o to_o be_v more_o serious_a in_o seek_v he_o for_o oftentimes_o when_o man_n find_v thing_n to_o go_v easy_o with_o they_o they_o be_v in_o hazard_n to_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o and_o sit_v down_o in_o as_o easy_a a_o way_n of_o duty_n and_o to_o ●lack_v their_o diligence_n 3_o he_o do_v this_o for_o trial_n to_o make_v discovery_n of_o the_o unsoundness_n of_o some_o and_o to_o prove_v the_o sincerity_n of_o other_o he_o will_v by_o suspending_a light_n and_o clearness_n in_o such_o a_o particular_a take_v a_o proof_n of_o folk_n tenderness_n whither_o they_o will_v forbear_v while_o they_o be_v unclear_a or_o whither_o they_o will_v untender_o go_v on_o it_o be_v a_o main_a thing_n that_o make_v trial_n of_o man_n tenderness_n when_o god_n by_o this_o mean_n lay_v as_o it_o be_v a_o bond_n and_o restraint_n on_o we_o and_o so_o put_v we_o to_o it_o to_o try_v whither_o we_o will_v hold_v here_o or_o proceed_v further_o if_o there_o be_v tenderness_n it_o will_v appear_v in_o such_o a_o case_n this_o discover_v saul_n 1_o sam._n 28._o 6_o 7._o when_o god_n answer_v he_o not_o who_o go_v away_o immediate_o to_o a_o witch_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o when_o they_o can_v win_v to_o satisfaction_n or_o clearness_n in_o a_o lawful_a way_n they_o betake_v themselves_o to_o the_o nixt_a shift_n when_o other_o that_o be_v tender_a will_v halt_v and_o stand_v ●ill_o till_o god_n further_o reveal_v and_o manifest_v his_o mind_n in_o the_o thing_n as_o the_o prophet_n do_v 2_o king_n 4._o 27._o let_v she_o alone_o sa●eth_v he_o of_o the_o shunamite_n to_o his_o servant_n her_o soul_n be_v vex_v within_o she_o and_o the_o lord_n have_v hide_v it_o from_o i_o 4_o he_o do_v this_o to_o make_v man_n prize_v light_a more_o when_o they_o get_v it_o know_v that_o it_o come_v from_o god_n we_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v as_o long_o as_o we_o be_v not_o much_o difficulted_a and_o bring_v into_o some_o notable_a strait_n that_o our_o light_n flow_v from_o a_o stock_n within_o ourselves_o and_o that_o we_o have_v it_o at_o command_n thus_o many_o think_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o be_v clear_a to_o marry_v such_o or_o such_o a_o person_n to_o take_v such_o a_o place_n or_o to_o engage_v in_o such_o one_fw-mi employ_v and_o station_n as_o it_o may_v be_v of_o magistracy_n or_o of_o ministry_n conscience_n as_o they_o think_v clear_v they_o at_o the_o first_o hand_n but_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v we_o to_o know_v that_o to_o have_v light_n and_o clearness_n in_o any_o particular_a especial_o of_o such_o moment_n be_v a_o great_a matter_n and_o mercy_n then_o so_o and_o that_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n to_o flight_n and_o undervalue_v it_o when_o it_o be_v come_v by_o a_o 5_o and_o last_o end_n be_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o more_o immediate_a dependence_n on_o himself_o that_o when_o conscience_n be_v silent_a they_o may_v come_v to_o he_o and_o count_v themselves_o to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o in_o his_o common_a and_o debt_n for_o any_o light_n that_o they_o shall_v win_v at_o and_o be_v make_v to_o know_v that_o conscience_n be_v but_o his_o servant_n all_o this_o be_v clear_a frow_fw-mi god_n way_n in_o afflict_v his_o people_n and_o from_o many_o instance_n in_o scripture_n the_o other_o assertion_n that_o i_o propose_v to_o speak_v a_o word_n to_o be_v that_o though_o it_o be_v sometime_o thus_o that_o conscience_n be_v silent_a and_o speak_v not_o at_o least_o so_o soon_o or_o so_o clear_o when_o it_o be_v inquire_v at_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o always_o so_o but_o sometime_o nay_o often_o conscience_n will_v speak_v and_o answer_v clear_o and_o our_o unclearnesse_n in_o that_o case_n may_v proceed_v from_o some_o one_o tentation_n or_o other_o or_o from_o our_o own_o sinful_a distemper_n or_o from_o our_o negligence_n and_o inadvertancy_n as_o i_o shall_v short_o clear_v in_o some_o case_n 1._o as_o a_o sinful_a ignorance_n in_o the_o person_n who_o desire_v it_o to_o speak_v will_v make_v conscience_n keep_v silent_a so_o there_o be_v a_o sinful_a
they_o we_o may_v be_v help_v clear_o to_o know_v 〈◊〉_d be_v please_v to_o he_o and_o profitable_a to_o ourselves_o concern_v which_o counsellor_n we_o may_v not_o only_o safe_o but_o with_o high_a assurance_n say_v that_o they_o be_v happy_a who_o harken_v to_o their_o advice_n and_o council_n that_o which_o we_o have_v have_v be_v speak_v of_o from_o this_o v_o be_v the_o right_a way_n of_o discern_v the_o advice_n and_o counsel_n which_o the_o conscience_n give_v that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v the_o more_o able_a clear_o and_o distinct_o to_o follow_v it_o and_o in_o prosecution_n of_o this_o you_o may_v remember_v we_o come_v to_o answer_v that_o case_n or_o question_v what_o man_n be_v call_v to_o or_o what_o maybe_o their_o duty_n when_o after_o some_o pain_n take_v to_o know_v conscience_n advice_n and_o counsel_n they_o do_v not_o discern_v and_o take_v it_o up_o see_v experience_n tell_v we_o that_o sometime_o there_o may_v be_v darkness_n even_o when_o man_n will_v have_v light_a in_o answer_v of_o this_o we_o give_v you_o this_o direction_n in_o the_o first_o place_n after_o the_o premit_v of_o some_o thing_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o that_o such_o as_o be_v thus_o in_o the_o dark_a will_v once_o put_v themselves_o to_o it_o to_o try_v whither_o their_o darkness_n proceed_v indeed_o from_o conscience_n or_o from_o some_o distemper_n and_o tentation_n within_o let_v and_o hinder_v they_o from_o take_v up_o that_o which_o conscience_n say_v till_o once_o this_o be_v clear_a man_n can_v make_v great_a progress_n for_o if_o they_o shall_v study_v to_o have_v conscience_n speak_v and_o yet_o have_v their_o own_o ear_n stop_v this_o seem_v to_o be_v but_o lose_v labour_n there_o be_v some_o other_o thing_n call_v for_o that_o once_o they_o may_v be_v in_o a_o quiet_a and_o compose_v frame_n to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v to_o they_o a_o ad_fw-la direction_n for_o answer_n to_o it_o be_v when_o man_n can_v discern_v any_o temptation_n or_o distemper_n in_o themselves_o but_o that_o they_o be_v content_a to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n will_v say_v to_o they_o and_o yet_o can_v take_v it_o up_o than_o they_o will_v set_v themselves_o to_o try_v whither_o that_o silence_n proceed_v from_o some_o sinful_a cause_n in_o themselves_o just_o procure_v that_o silence_n of_o conscience_n as_o a_o punishment_n to_o they_o or_o from_o some_o sovereign_a cause_n in_o god_n order_v that_o silence_n to_o try_v they_o and_o to_o humble_v they_o and_o that_o they_o may_v by_o be_v keep_v a_o while_n in_o the_o mist_n more_o single_o give_v proof_n of_o their_o dependency_n on_o he_o for_o as_o in_o other_o affliction_n so_o in_o this_o sometime_o god_n will_v exercise_v his_o sovereignty_n and_o if_o it_o be_v once_o know_v to_o be_v for_o trial_n the_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o be_v sweet_o silent_a submission_n to_o god_n and_o allow_v he_o so_o to_o dispose_v of_o we_o as_o he_o please_v as_o that_o word_n isa._n 50._o v._n 10._o hold_n forth_o he_o that_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o see_v no_o light_n let_v he_o in_o that_o case_n stay_v himself_o on_o the_o lord_n he_o may_v be_v keep_v quiet_a and_o from_o thwart_v with_o god_n if_o he_o can_v take_v up_o that_o to_o be_v his_o design_n but_o if_o some_o sinful_a cause_n have_v procure_v this_o man_n be_v put_v to_o it_o as_o they_o will_v not_o lie_v under_o any_o effect_n of_o god_n anger_n to_o be_v deal_v with_o he_o to_o have_v that_o cause_n that_o have_v bring_v it_o on_o remove_v that_o in_o due_a time_n this_o sad_a effect_n of_o it_o may_v be_v remove_v also_o it_o be_v true_a that_o as_o in_o other_o case_n so_o in_o this_o it_o be_v not_o ordinary_a nor_o common_a for_o god_n to_o afflict_v his_o people_n with_o darkness_n without_o some_o sinful_a cause_n and_o we_o may_v easy_o know_v that_o among_o man_n who_o have_v corruption_n in_o they_o there_o be_v no_o trial_n that_o come_v on_o they_o but_o there_o be_v some_o cause_n in_o themselves_o that_o may_v procure_v it_o and_o so_o may_v keep_v they_o in_o the_o dark_a if_o god_n shall_v narrow_o mark_v it_o and_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o it_o be_v very_o difficult_a to_o discern_v right_o by_o clear_a evidence_n the_o one_o of_o these_o from_o the_o other_o yet_o we_o think_v in_o every_o case_n it_o be_v not_o absolute_o necessary_a for_o godly_a person_n to_o conclude_v a_o design_a controversy_n for_o sin_n though_o they_o can_v never_o go_v wrong_a to_o take_v with_o sin_n albeit_o yet_o they_o will_v not_o always_o bind_v it_o on_o god_n as_o if_o he_o be_v quarrel_v for_o it_o though_o he_o may_v very_o just_o do_v so_o therefore_o we_o shall_v offer_v four_o difference_n and_o then_o qualify_v they_o and_o give_v some_o direction_n how_o to_o walk_v in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o case_n first_o then_o we_o conceive_v when_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n and_o god_n refuse_v to_o intimate_v his_o mind_n by_o it_o proceed_v from_o a_o sinful_a cause_n procure_v it_o in_o a_o person_n it_o will_v ready_o look_v more_o horrible_a like_o and_o will_v have_v some_o impression_n of_o anger_n on_o it_o when_o it_o come_v out_o with_o such_o a_o word_n as_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 10._o 14._o go_v and_o cry_v unto_o the_o god_n which_o you_o have_v choose_v etc._n etc._n and_o there_o be_v good_a reason_n for_o this_o that_o if_o it_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o sin_n or_o of_o anger_n for_o sin_n it_o shall_v look_v like_a anger_n then_o when_o it_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o god_n mere_a sovereignty_n which_o may_v stand_v well_o with_o his_o be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o that_o person_n who_o he_o so_o try_v second_o we_o think_v the_o hide_v of_o god_n face_n and_o silence_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o proceed_v from_o sin_n as_o the_o cause_n ready_o point_v out_o some_o particular_a ground_n of_o challenge_n for_o which_o the_o conscience_n keep_v silence_n it_o have_v a_o word_n of_o reproof_n with_o it_o for_o some_o particular_a fault_n as_o in_o that_o same_o place_n you_o have_v do_v this_o and_o this_o say_v the_o lord_n though_o i_o have_v bring_v you_o out_o of_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n yet_o you_o have_v serve_v other_o god_n therefore_o now_o i_o will_v deliver_v you_o no_o more_o conscience_n though_o it_o will_v not_o in_o that_o case_n give_v a_o answer_n to_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v ask_v at_o it_o yet_o it_o will_v give_v a_o reason_n wherefore_o it_o answer_v not_o and_o will_v point_v at_o somewhat_o that_o may_v make_v it_o know_v that_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o its_o keep_a silence_n job_n be_v thus_o smite_v in_o holy_a sovereignty_n say_v to_o god_n chap._n 10._o 2_o tell_v i_o wherefore_o thou_o contend_v with_o i_o he_o be_v indeed_o now_o somewhat_o jumble_v be_v exercise_v by_o the_o sovereign_n holy_a lord_n and_o his_o exercise_n be_v not_o so_o much_o for_o this_o and_o that_o sin_n in_o particular_a as_o to_o know_v wherefore_o god_n deal_v so_o with_o he_o 3_o when_o this_o silence_n of_o conscience_n proceed_v from_o a_o sinful_a cause_n it_o leave_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o person_n in_o a_o far_o great_a distemper_n and_o confusion_n then_o whenit_fw-la proceed_v mere_o from_o god_n sovereignty_n for_o this_o have_v its_o rise_n from_o sin_n it_o have_v the_o great_a influence_n to_o the_o stir_v of_o corruption_n therefore_o in_o such_o a_o case_n as_o this_o man_n be_v much_o dispose_v to_o sret_v as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o saul_n and_o other_o who_o be_v ready_a when_o god_n answer_v they_o not_o to_o take_v another_o and_o sinful_a way_n of_o their_o own_o but_o when_o god_n exercise_n in_o sovereignty_n as_o the_o conscience_n have_v ready_o more_o quietness_n so_o there_o be_v more_o sweet_a submission_n and_o patience_n 4_o person_n will_v take_v a_o reflect_v look_v on_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n before_o their_o darkness_n come_v on_o they_o 〈◊〉_d they_o be_v careless_a and_o carnal_a secure_a untender_a and_o remiss_a in_o stir_v up_o themselves_o to_o obtain_v light_n from_o god_n if_o darkness_n or_o any_o other_o affliction_n come_v on_o they_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o speak_v this_o that_o they_o be_v sad_o surprise_v in_o that_o distemper_n but_o if_o it_o come_v on_o they_o at_o such_o a_o time_n when_o they_o have_v a_o testimony_n within_o they_o that_o they_o be_v make_v conscience_n of_o their_o duty_n it_o will_v seem_v to_o say_v that_o god_n be_v not_o look_v so_o much_o at_o their_o sin_n as_o to_o some_o sovereign_a end_n ●e_z will_v bring_v abount_n by_o that_o rod_n if_o you_o consider_v holy_a joh_n who_o be_v the_o eminent_a pattern_n of_o god_n exercise_v a_o a_o man_n sovereign_o the_o case_n and_o frame_n
he_o be_v overtake_v in_o by_o his_o affliction_n be_v a_o most_o tender_a one_o rise_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o offering_n sacrifice_n for_o his_o child_n and_o as_o he_o say_v chap._n 3._o 26_o i_o be_v not_o in_o safety_n neither_o have_v i_o rest_v neither_o be_v i_o quiet_a yet_o trouble_n come_v that_o be_v if_o i_o have_v be_v secure_a and_o carnal_a i_o will_v have_v think_v the_o less_o to_o meet_v with_o such_o trouble_n but_o i_o be_v not_o at_o carnal_a ease_n but_o be_v serious_o at_o my_o duty_n it_o be_v this_o that_o make_v he_o that_o he_o can_v not_o see_v what_o it_o be_v that_o god_n point_v out_o to_o he_o for_o his_o exercise_n we_o will_v now_o in_o the_o nixt_a place_n give_v you_o these_o qualification_n 1._o that_o when_o god_n exercise_v from_o sovereignty_n yet_o even_o then_o there_o may_v be_v somewhat_o of_o terror_n reproof_n and_o challenge_v and_o somewhat_o of_o corruption_n stir_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o we_o have_v corruption_n in_o we_o and_o be_v not_o without_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o therefore_o tentation_n have_v just_a ground_n to_o challenge_v and_o corruption_n be_v ready_a on_o every_o occasion_n to_o be_v ●ed_v and_o provoke_v we_o will_v give_v this_o as_o a_o second_o qualification_n that_o ofttimes_o god_n deal_v with_o and_o exert_v of_o his_o people_n be_v mix_v with_o some_o respect_n both_o to_o their_o sin_n and_o to_o the_o good_a end_n that_o he_o intend_v to_o bring_v about_o thereby_o to_o they_o and_o yet_o there_o be_v these_o 〈◊〉_d thing_n that_o we_o will_v look_v to_o in_o these_o case_n first_o that_o though_o corruption_n may_v stir_v yet_o comparative_o it_o 〈◊〉_d ●ar_v less_o in_o the_o one_o case_n then_o in_o the_o other_o if_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d affect_v with_o sin_n even_o when_o he_o be_v afflict_v in_o god_n sovereignty_n what_o will_v he_o have_v be_v if_o he_o have_v be_v chastise_v for_o his_o sin_n and_o surprise_v in_o a_o sinful_a distemper_n when_o his_o affliction_n come_v on_o he_o ad_o though_o it_o may_v be_v so_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o if_o god_n remove_v the_o exercise_n he_o will_v make_v it_o otherwise_o he_o will_v compose_v the_o heart_n and_o make_v the_o exercise_n effectual_a for_o that_o for_o which_o he_o send_v it_o as_o you_o see_v in_o the_o case_n of_o job_n who_o though_o he_o be_v somewhat_o discompose_v for_o a_o time_n yet_o before_o god_n leave_v he_o he_o calm_v he_o and_o make_v he_o lay_v his_o hand_n on_o his_o mouth_n chap._n 40._o and_o 42._o 3_o that_o even_o then_o though_o person_n may_v discompose_v and_o put_v themselves_o through_o other_o because_o they_o have_v not_o carry_v suitable_o and_o fair_a under_o the_o exercise_n yet_o there_o will_v be_v some_o honest_a testimony_n of_o sincerity_n when_o they_o look_v back_o to_o their_o carriage_n before_o and_o even_o in_o the_o time_n for_o sovereignty_n in_o such_o exercise_n will_v not_o prejudge_v his_o people_n interest_n in_o he_o therefore_o you_o see_v that_o job_n be_v clear_a and_o resolve_v in_o this_o that_o he_o will_v retain_v his_o integrity_n last_o we_o will_v come_v to_o show_v you_o what_o be_v meet_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n which_o though_o there_o may_v be_v considerable_a difficulty_n to_o come_v by_o yet_o a_o believer_n shall_v not_o be_v idle_a when_o his_o conscience_n keep_v silence_n therefore_o i_o will_v give_v you_o these_o three_o general_a direction_n 1._o that_o person_n will_v endeavour_v to_o compose_v and_o calm_v the_o frame_n of_o their_o own_o spirit_n under_o that_o darkness_n be_v from_o what_o cause_n it_o will_v if_o it_o be_v from_o god_n sovereignty_n exercise_v this_o be_v suitable_a that_o we_o study_v to_o comply_v and_o strick_v in_o with_o these_o end_n and_o design_n that_o god_n drive_v at_o in_o exercise_v we_o so_o such_o as_o the_o humble_v of_o we_o the_o emptie_v of_o we_o of_o all_o self-conceit_n the_o make_n of_o we_o to_o loathe_v ourselves_o so_o as_o to_o say_v with_o job_n behold_v i_o be_o vile_a the_o clear_a knowledge_n of_o our_o own_o feebleness_n and_o sinfulness_n our_o make_n great_a account_n of_o light_n and_o come_v at_o a_o more_o near_o close_a and_o constant_a dependence_n on_o god_n whatsoever_o that_o exercise_n proceed_v from_o this_o be_v always_o a_o christian_n duty_n and_o we_o have_v it_o warrant_v to_o we_o from_o job_n example_n and_o from_o the_o church_n example_n lament_v 3._o a_o second_o general_a direction_n be_v that_o whither_o god_n chastite_n for_o sin_n or_o not_o yet_o we_o will_v take_v a_o look_n of_o our_o own_o carriage_n that_o we_o may_v see_v what_o sin_n or_o sin_n we_o can_v find_v out_o that_o may_v have_v be_v ground_n for_o he_o thus_o to_o quarrel_v with_o we_o that_o so_o we_o may_v repent_v of_o they_o obtain_v his_o peace_n and_o recover_v his_o favour_n and_o friendship_n in_o reference_n to_o these_o sin_n this_o sure_a can_v be_v any_o bad_a fruit_n whatsoever_o be_v the_o cause_n from_o which_o it_o proceed_v because_o though_o god_n take_v not_o such_o narrow_a notice_n of_o our_o sin_n yet_o it_o well_o become_v we_o to_o take_v such_o notice_n of_o it_o you_o see_v job_n do_v this_o when_o he_o say_v to_o the_o lord_n thou_o make_v i_o to_o possess_v the_o sin_n of_o my_o youth_n we_o will_v look_v well_o to_o this_o and_o set_v ourselves_o serious_o to_o have_v our_o peace_n make_v up_o again_o with_o god_n and_o to_o come_v by_o the_o intimation_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o these_o particular_a sin_n that_o if_o so_o be_v our_o darkness_n continue_v we_o may_v have_v some_o quietness_n of_o conscience_n and_o this_o may_v also_o be_v the_o way_n for_o win_v to_o the_o other_o it_o be_v sure_a very_o suitable_a that_o when_o a_o person_n be_v in_o the_o dark_a as_o to_o some_o one_o particular_a duty_n sober_o to_o consider_v how_o often_o conscience_n speak_v and_o i_o take_v but_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o how_o little_a conscience_n i_o make_v to_o practice_v clear_a duty_n and_o therefore_o i_o be_o just_o bemi_v and_o in_o the_o dark_a as_o to_o this_o this_o help_n to_o humble_a there_o be_v these_o three_o thing_n we_o will_v have_v you_o to_o look_v back_o on_o when_o we_o call_v you_o to_o reflect_v in_o such_o a_o case_n on_o your_o way_n first_o look_v back_o and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v not_o something_o amiss_o before_o that_o darkness_n come_v on_o that_o may_v have_v procure_v it_o and_o draw_v on_o this_o as_o a_o chastisement_n of_o that_o and_o here_o you_o will_v go_v back_o if_o it_o be_v not_o only_o some_o few_o year_n but_o seven_o year_n and_o more_o too_o and_o see_v what_o sin_n and_o sin_n against_o light_n in_o particular_a you_o have_v fall_v in_o and_o how_o when_o conscience_n do_v challenge_v for_o the_o same_o you_o take_v but_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o if_o i_o say_v it_o be_v after_o seven_o year_n yea_o thrice_o seven_o as_o josephs_n brethren_n be_v make_v to_o do_v you_o will_v call_v these_o sin_n or_o that_o sin_n again_o to_o mind_n 2_o look_v well_o if_o you_o have_v be_v serious_a in_o search_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n and_o if_o you_o have_v take_v pain_n to_o use_v all_o mean_n to_o get_v light_a you_o want_v light_a and_o it_o may_v be_v you_o have_v not_o study_v to_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o word_n nor_o have_v be_v single_a in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o obtain_v of_o it_o you_o will_v also_o look_v if_o there_o have_v be_v any_o defect_n in_o advise_v with_o conscience_n or_o in_o propon_v the_o case_n to_o conscience_n and_o discover_v the_o same_o you_o will_v endeavour_v to_o amend_v it_o and_o to_o make_v a_o new_a address_n as_o it_o be_v to_o your_o conscience_n before_o god_n for_o find_v out_o light_n three_o look_v back_o on_o your_o carriage_n since_o that_o darkness_n begin_v for_o christian_n may_v possible_o have_v be_v in_o a_o tender_a frame_n when_o this_o darkness_n come_v upon_o they_o yet_o because_o they_o get_v not_o light_a so_o soon_o as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o and_o because_o the_o ●ord_n keep_v up_o himself_o for_o a_o time_n it_o may_v be_v their_o impatience_n have_v break_v out_o and_o there_o have_v be_v sinful_a wrangle_n with_o god_n in_o secret_a and_o the_o heart_n have_v be_v somewhat_o raise_v that_o he_o shall_v deal_v so_o with_o they_o especial_o ●hen_o they_o have_v find_v that_o they_o have_v be_v honest_a in_o the_o main_a somewhat_o of_o this_o be_v in_o job_n who_o take_v on_o he_o under_o his_o dark_a exercise_n as_o himself_o confess_v to_o meddle_v too_o much_o and_o too_o bold_o with_o god_n secret_n that_o be_v too_o wonderful_a for_o he_o it_o may_v be_v often_o thus_o with_o
be_v most_o countenance_v by_o divine_a providence_n most_o feasible_a and_o likely_a to_o to_o make_v the_o end_n effectual_a a_o 3d._n help_v be_v in_o our_o singleness_n in_o our_o motion_n and_o in_o our_o yield_v to_o that_o which_o after_o examination_n and_o deliberation_n we_o have_v ●ound_v or_o suppose_v to_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o the_o general_a rule_n 〈◊〉_d that_o when_o conscience_n have_v propose_v the_o case_n it_o have_v a_o testimony_n in_o itself_o that_o it_o have_v make_v that_o proposal_n sincere_o and_o impartia_o that_o respect_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o main_o swey_v we_o and_o in●ned_v we_o to_o this_o or_o that_o hand_n and_o that_o we_o apprehend_v this_o way_n to_o be_v most_o conduce_v to_o that_o end_n in_o this_o case_n though_o conscience_n speak_v no●_n so_o direct_o for_o the_o clearness_n of_o such_o a_o thing_n yet_o it_o can_v ready_o quarrel_v with_o a_o person_n who_o have_v single_o endeavour_v before_o hand_n to_o satisfy_v it_o and_o who_o have_v its_o testimony_n that_o god_n glory_n be_v the_o thing_n that_o main_o swey_v he_o and_o nothing_o else_o this_o w●_n conceive_v be_v that_o whereof_o the_o apo●ile_n speak_v 2_o cor._n 1._o v._n 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n these_o three_o thing_n be_v put_v together_o the_o conscience_n may_v have_v peace_n the_o thing_n itself_o be_v lawful_a because_o this_o general_a rule_n will_v bear_v it_o out_o in_o scripture-reason_n which_o conscience_n will_v not_o speak_v against_o there_o be_v only_o one_o word_n further_o i_o will_v speak_v to_o this_o purpose_n christian_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o all_o the_o difficulty_n lie_v here_o even_o in_o be_v single_a and_o sincere_a and_o indeed_o it_o do_v so_o for_o the_o want_n of_o it_o ma●s_v peace_n and_o the_o have_v of_o it_o gives_z great_a ground_n of_o peace_n i_o shall_v give_v you_o therefore_o three_o qualifications_n whereby_o you_o may_v try_v your_o sincerity_n first_o consider_v and_o try_v what_o frame_n of_o heart_n you_o be_v in_o for_o if_o you_o be_v not_o in_o a_o good_a frame_n of_o heart_n it_o can_v hardly_o be_v say_v that_o sincerity_n sweye_v you_o there_o will_v therefore_o much_o tenderness_n be_v study_v and_o to_o have_v a_o deep_a impression_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n of_o the_o awe_n and_o dread_n of_o he_o and_o of_o his_o word_n on_o our_o spirit_n 2_o look_v what_o weight_n challenge_v for_o by_o go_v neglect_n o●_n 〈◊〉_d performance_n of_o duty_n or_o un-straightness_n in_o any_o of_o they_o have_v with_o you_o for_o sincerity_n be_v never_o ready_o more_o evident_a then_o when_o we_o have_v distinct_a reflection_n upon_o our_o way_n and_o the_o suitable_a sense_n of_o some_o bygon_n sin_n in_o that_o case_n we_o will_v no●_n be_v in_o such_o hazard_n to_o give_v way_n to_o or_o to_o comply_v with_o what_o may_v breed_v a_o challenge_n afterward_o 3_o try_v it_o by_o what_o conscience_n you_o make_v of_o present_a know_v and_o clear_a duty_n it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n that_o person_n be_v 〈◊〉_d when_o there_o be_v no_o clear_a duty_n but_o they_o make_v conscience_n of_o it_o labour_v to_o be_v universal_a and_o equal_a in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o know_a duty_n and_o when_o they_o ●ar_v not_o hazard_v on_o any_o thing_n without_o clearness_n but_o when_o a_o person_n be_v clear_o convince_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v sin_n and_o continue_v still_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n and_o continue_v in_o the_o neglect_n o●_n it_o and_o yet_o think_v that_o he_o be_v swey_v by_o sincerity_n such_o a_o one_o must_v needs_o be_v delude_v since_o in_o such_o a_o case_n no_o reason_n can_v be_v give_v for_o it_o i_o be_o ●old_a hear_v to_o say_v that_o in_o the_o great_a day_n there_o shall_v never_o man_n no●_n woman_n be_v ●ound_v to_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n of_o sincerity_n who_o have_v not_o aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v universal_o sincere_a the_o four_o help_v be_v that_o christian_n will_v endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o a_o very_a tender_a frame_n in_o the_o near_a communion_n with_o god_n and_o in_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o heart-melting_a and_o of_o ●ouring_v it_o out_o before_o god_n that_o may_v be_v win_v at_o though_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o christian_n to_o mistake_v even_o in_o such_o a_o frame_n but_o my_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o rule_n will_v be_v look_v to_o and_o lay_v before_o we_o and_o that_o we_o will_v study_v to_o make_v application_n of_o it_o with_o the_o least_o by-respect_n and_o with_o the_o great_a singleness_n and_o that_o then_o we_o may_v with_o some_o safety_n conclude_v what_o side_n to_o sway_a to_o i_o will_v not_o in_o all_o this_o have_v we_o debate_v duty_n but_o our_o particular_a call_n to_o duty_n this_o may_v be_v look_v at_o by_o many_o as_o a_o very_a great_a and_o hard_a work_n and_o they_o may_v think_v that_o all_o this_o make_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o business_n about_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o it_o do_v so_o indeed_o i_o will_v have_v you_o consider_v 〈◊〉_d three_o word_n for_o answer_v such_o thought_n 1._o that_o 〈◊〉_d great_a and_o difficult_a work_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o you_o will_v find_v it_o that_o 〈◊〉_d i●_n now_o one_o day_n to_o your_o cost_n to_o have_v be_v a_o great_a work_n and_o ●n_o up-taking_a exercise_n yet_o we_o will_v not_o think_v the_o worse_a of_o it_o for_o that_o since_o there_o be_v nothing_o excellent_a that_o have_v not_o difficulty_n in_o it_o 2_o i_o will_v say_v this_o that_o you_o will_v consider_v that_o though_o there_o be_v several_a thing_n indifferent_a in_o themselves_o as_o eat_v and_o drink_v marry_v live_v here_o or_o there_o etc._n etc._n yet_o to_o we_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o and_o as_o they_o be_v circumstantiate_v they_o be_v not_o indifferent_a but_o when_o do_v they_o be_v either_o sinful_a as_o not_o be_v according_o to_o the_o rule_n or_o approven_v and_o acceptable_a as_o be_v according_a to_o it_o we_o will_v therefore_o be_v very_o watchful_a and_o tender_a in_o our_o do_v and_o use_v of_o thing_n in_o themselves_o lawful_a nam_fw-la perimus_fw-la licitis_fw-la 3_o let_v i_o say_v that_o i_o do_v not_o intend_v by_o what_o i_o have_v say_v to_o put_v your_o conscience_n on_o the_o rack_n or_o to_o stint_v and_o limit_v you_o by_o art_n as_o it_o be_v to_o find_v out_o light_a for_o i_o know_v these_o thing_n be_v not_o always_o explicit_a even_o in_o many_o conscientious_a person_n but_o that_o which_o i_o design_v and_o drive_v at_o by_o this_o discourse_n be_v that_o you_o may_v serious_o mind_n and_o look_v after_o the_o thing_n and_o endeavour_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o these_o rule_n on_o the_o matter_n and_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o your_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v these_o rule_v you_o allow_v yourselves_o in_o such_o case_n to_o be_v swey_v and_o guide_v by_o this_o will_v give_v you_o peace_n and_o nothing_o less_o will_v do_v it_o sermon_n i._n 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 the_o lord_n our_o god_n be_v the_o true_a god_n a_o god_n of_o truth_n even_o truth_n itself_o the_o first_o great_a original_n and_o eternal_a truth_n who_o by_o the_o most_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o his_o incomprehensible_o bless_a nature_n be_v infinite_o remove_v as_o from_o all_o possibility_n of_o be_v 〈◊〉_d or_o impose_v on_o by_o a_o lie_n himself_o so_o from_o all_o possibility_n of_o deceive_v or_o lie_v to_o other_o and_o to_o say_v as_o some_o dare_a man_n of_o late_a have_v do_v that_o god_n may_v deceive_v if_o he_o will_v be_v not_o only_o of_o harsh_a sound_n in_o christian_a ear_n but_o to_o be_v explode_v and_o execrate_v as_o insinuate_v that_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o god_n might_n if_o he_o will_v and_o so_o please_v cease_v to_o be_v the_o god_n of_o truth_n or_o a_o true_a god_n which_o consider_v the_o identification_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o attribute_n be_v as_o much_o as_o to_o say_v that_o he_o may_v if_o he_o will_v cease_v to_o be_v god_n as_o the_o strength_n of_o israel_n can_v lie_v neither_o be_v he_o a_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v lie_v so_o he_o love_v truth_n in_o the_o inward_a part_n and_o command_v man_n to_o speak_v truth_n every_o one_o to_o his_o neighbour_n and_o peremptory_o prohibi●eth_v all_o lie_v not_o only_o all_o pernicious_a lie_v on_o design_n to_o hurt_v but_o also_o all_o officious_a
lie_v to_o bring_v about_o some_o good_a to_o or_o to_o divert_v some_o notable_a evil_n from_o themselves_o or_o other_o and_o lie_v in_o sport_n to_o make_v other_o merry_a and_o all_o temerarious_a rash_a lie_v through_o customary_a looseness_n and_o 〈◊〉_d call_v it_o seem_v in_o the_o scripture_n the_o way_n of_o lie_v and_o the_o more_o that_o man_n abhor_v lie_v and_o love_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n they_o be_v in_o so_o f●r_v the_o 〈◊〉_d like_o god_n and_o the_o more_o unlike_o the_o devil_n who_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o truth_n because_o there_o be_v no_o truth_n in_o he_o and_o who_o when_o be_v speak_v a_o li●_n speak_v it_o of_o his_o own_o its_o 〈◊〉_d and_o sole_o his_o own_o and_o none_o of_o god_n for_o he_o be_v a_o li●r_n and_o the_o father_n of_o it_o we_o will_v therefore_o watchful_o guard_v against_o all_o lie_a under_o whatsoever_o pretext_n and_o look_v well_o that_o we_o always_o speak_v truth_n especial_o when_o we_o interpose_v conscience_n and_o yet_o more_o especial_o when_o we_o appeal_v to_o god_n as_o witness_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o we_o say_v or_o affirm_v according_a to_o the_o practice_n o●_n the_o apostle_n here_o who_o be_v one_o that_o exercise_v himself_o to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n no_o doubt_n make_v conscience_n always_o to_o speak_v truth_n more_o especial_o when_o he_o have_v use_v any_o more_o than_o ordinary_a solemn_a prote●ation_n or_o attestation_n as_o he_o do_v in_o these_o word_n the_o scope_n whereof_o be_v to_o roll_v away_o all_o ground_n o●_n stumble_v from_o his_o countryman_n the_o jew_n and_o from_o any_o other_o who_o may_v think_v because_o of_o some_o of_o his_o discourse_n concern_v they_o that_o he_o regard_v they_o not_o and_o that_o he_o be_v very_o indifferent_a whether_o they_o be_v save_v or_o perish_v and_o to_o conciliar_a their_o affection_n and_o respect_n to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o his_o person_n for_o the_o gospel_n and_o thei●_n own_o soul_n sake_n in_o which_o word_n we_o have_v 1._o his_o assertion_n concern_v the_o heaviness_n and_o sorrow_n of_o his_o heart_n for_o they_o his_o brethren_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n which_o he_o set_v down_o first_o positive_o i_o speak_v the_o truth_n then_o negative_o i_o lie_v not_o two_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o assertion_n which_o to_o make_v it_o the_o more_o solemn_a weighty_a and_o convince_a and_o if_o it_o may_v be_v the_o more_o gain_v of_o the_o jew_n be_v threefold_a 1._o it_o be_v in_o christ_n insinuate_v thereby_o that_o he_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n that_o assert_v this_o truth_n and_o one_o that_o draw_v strength_n from_o ch●ist_n to_o enable_v he_o to_o what_o he_o assert_n and_o refer_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o christ_n as_o his_o main_a end_n in_o it_o and_o withal_o expect_v god_n acceptation_n of_o he_o therein_o on_o christ_n account_n and_o for_o his_o sake_n the_o 2._o be_v my_o conscience_n an_o upright_o impartial_a and_o tender_a thing_n when_o right_a bear_v i_o wittness_n as_o to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o assert_v the_o 3._o be_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o be_v it_o be_v affirm_v by_o one_o who_o ha●h_v a_o enlighten_v and_o habitual_o sanctify_a conscience_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n by_o one_o who_o be_v act_v by_o he_o and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n for_o the_o present_a nay_o by_o one_o infallible_o guide_v and_o inspire_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o his_o penman_n in_o write_v this_o as_o a_o piece_n and_o passage_n of_o divine_a scripture_n i_o shall_v not_o here_o speak_v particular_o to_o all_o the_o point_n of_o doctrine_n that_o may_v be_v deduce_v from_o these_o word_n but_o to_o such_o only_a as_o make_v for_o clea●ing_v the_o purpose_n that_o we_o have_v in_o hand_n and_o that_o be_v the_o particular_a influence_n that_o conscience_n have_v on_o a_o man_n in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o act_n and_o the_o particular_a respect_n that_o he_o ought_v to_o have_v to_o his_o conscience_n in_o carry_v it_o along_o with_o he_o in_o his_o action_n yet_o we_o shall_v pass_o point_v at_o and_o little_a more_o than_o name_n some_o general_a observation_n and_o then_o come_v to_o the_o particular_n that_o we_o main_o aim_v at_o and_o 1._o we_o observe_v this_o that_o a_o man_n conscience_n be_v some_o way_n different_a from_o himself_o as_o in_o some_o respect_n to_o speak_v so_o another_o party_n i_o speak_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 i_o and_o i_o be_v one_o thing_n and_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v another_o and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n a_o three_o all_o which_o he_o join_v together_o yet_o so_o as_o he_o make_v they_o different_a party_n conscience_n i_o say_v consider_v as_o conscience_n and_o more_o especial_o as_o it_o be_v renew_v well_o inform_v and_o tender_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o its_o duty_n differ_v from_o the_o man_n himself_o 1._o in_o respect_n of_o its_o place_n of_o more_o direct_a and_o immediate_a subjection_n to_o god_n himself_o as_o it_o be_v master_n to_o receive_v i●'s_n order_n from_o he_o whereas_o the_o man_n be_v more_o direct_o and_o immediate_o subject_a to_o conscience_n by_o which_o as_o his_o deputy_n god_n rule_v he_o 2_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o office_n viz._n to_o dictat_fw-la to_o man_n what_o he_o shall_v do_v and_o what_o he_o shall_v not_o do_v and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o light_n that_o it_o have_v from_o god_n in_o his_o reveal_v will_n and_o word_n whereas_o man_n be_v not_o to_o dictat_fw-la to_o his_o conscience_n but_o to_o obey_v its_o dictate_v in_o ●o_o far_o as_o they_o agree_v with_o god_n reveal_v will_n and_o word_n 3_o in_o that_o by_o its_o office_n also_o it_o be_v to_o tell_v the_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v direct_v all_o his_o action_n to_o the_o right_a end_n viz._n the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v office_n be_v not_o only_o to_o dictat_fw-la our_o way_n but_o to_o enjoin_v to_o we_o our_o end_n man_n have_v not_o a_o power_n or_o liberty_n allow_v to_o he_o to_o propose_v to_o himself_o what_o end_n he_o please_v such_o as_o profit_v pleasure_n or_o credit_n as_o his_o main_a end_n but_o be_v oblige_v to_o eye_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n as_o such_o which_o conscience_n by_o virtue_n of_o its_o office_n and_o act_v i●'s_n part_n aright_o though_o alace_o it_o often_o prove_v defective_a therein_o be_v corrupt_v and_o defile_v by_o sin_n enjoin_v he_o to_o do_v 4_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o different_a consideration_n and_o sense_n of_o thing_n it_o will_v often_o he_o displease_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v when_o the_o man_n himself_o will_v be_v well_o please_v it_o will_v judge_v a_o thing_n unworthy_a to_o be_v entertain_v which_o the_o man_n will_v judge_v worthy_a 〈◊〉_d entertain_v and_o so_o conscience_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v though_o have_v its_o 〈◊〉_d in_o man_n yet_o in_o many_o respect_n as_o some_o way_n different_a from_o he_o and_o 〈◊〉_d as_o it_o be_v to_o he_o and_o set_v over_o he_o as_o 〈◊〉_d hint_v before_o to_o be_v a_o guardian_n witness_n 〈◊〉_d or_o sensor_n to_o take_v notice_n o●_n he_o in_o all_o his_o action_n and_o carriage_n let_v no_o man_n then_o as_o the_o use_v of_o i●_n think_v that_o ever_o he_o be_v or_o can_v be_v alone_o so_o long_o as_o he_o have_v a_o conscience_n within_o he_o for_o he_o have_v still_o something_o to_o testify_v for_o or_o against_o he_o to_o reprove_v he_o for_o what_o be_v wrong_a and_o to_o commend_v he_o for_o that_o which_o be_v right_a and_o though_o many_o poor_a wretch_n be_v ready_a to_o think_v and_o 〈◊〉_d to_o fancy_v themselves_o to_o be_v quiet_a and_o well_o when_o they_o bli●_n or_o c●erize_v or_o bribe_v thei●_n conscience_n yet_o it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v still_o wait_v on_o they_o and_o watch_v they_o be_v all_o they_o do_v 2_o observe_v that_o conscience_n be_v a_o most_o divine_a thing_n therefore_o paul_n take_v it_o to_o be_v more_o impartial_a than_o himself_o and_o join_v it_o with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o testify_v if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o some_o respect_n a_o more_o divine_a thing_n th●_n the_o man_n himself_o such_o weight_n will_v not_o be_v lay_v on_o it_o and_o its_o testimony_n and_o if_o we_o look_v to_o these_o thing_n hint_v at_o in_o the_o forego_n observation_n viz._n to_o the_o immediate_a master_n of_o it_o god_n to_o the_o rul●_n that_o it_o walk_v by_o his_o will_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n to_o the_o end_n it_o direct_v to_o or_o enjoin_v the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o to_o the_o whole_a way_n of_o of_o its_o consider_v and_o judge_v of_o thing_n not_o only_o as_o pleasant_a or_o
bear_v i_o witness_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o doctrine_n be_v because_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v for_o it_o may_v accuse_v as_o well_o as_o excuse_v but_o we_o will_v endeavour_v to_o carry_v so_o as_o we_o may_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o it_o which_o it_o will_v not_o give_v nor_o speak_v peace_n to_o we_o if_o we_o study_v not_o to_o take_v it_o with_o we_o all_o along_o the_o action_n this_o be_v a_o notable_a way_n to_o curb_v sin_n to_o mortify_v lust_n to_o make_v we_o accurate_a in_o duty_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o post_v to_o speak_v so_o through_o our_o prayer_n from_o scutch_v through_o a_o chapter_n of_o the_o bible_n and_o from_o trifle_v in_o other_o duty_n why_o because_o we_o have_v our_o conscience_n to_o answer_v to_o and_o its_o good_a testimony_n to_o wait_v for_o this_o be_v that_o which_o give_v holy_a boldness_n to_o a_o christian_a when_o 1._o he_o know_v that_o what_o he_o do_v be_v right_n for_o the_o matter_n 2._o when_o he_o take_v good_a heed_n to_o what_o conscience_n faith_n and_o 3._o when_o he_o have_v its_o good_a and_o approbative_a testimony_n and_o we_o think_v that_o this_o be_v much_o of_o what_o that_o text_n act_n 24._o v_o 16._o aim_n at_o and_o be_v the_o main_a thing_n a_o christian_n shall_v exercise_v himself_o in_o even_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o duty_n nay_o in_o every_o duty_n to_o have_v its_o good_a testimony_n when_o he_o begin_v when_o he_o go_v on_o in_o it_o or_o in_o the_o time_n of_o it_o and_o when_o he_o have_v close_v it_o this_o be_v it_o as_o i_o have_v often_o say_v which_o furnish_v he_o with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n and_o give_v he_o much_o sweet_a peace_n and_o serenity_n in_o his_o mind_n that_o who_o ever_o and_o what_o ever_o speak_v against_o he_o he_o be_v at_o a_o point_n that_o he_o be_v right_a have_v the_o well_o ground_a testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o it_o but_o it_o may_v be_v question_v here_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o a_o man_n to_o carry_v a_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n along_o with_o he_o in_o every_o action_n can_v he_o always_o be_v reflect_v on_o every_o word_n he_o speak_v and_o on_o every_o action_n he_o put_v his_o hand_n unto_o for_o answer_v we_o will_v first_o distinguish_v betwixt_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a inquire_v at_o and_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a inquire_v at_o and_o reflect_v on_o it_o and_o betwixt_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o then_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o particular_a answer_n that_o then_o be_v a_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o do_v actual_o express_o and_o downright_o speak_v its_o mind_n and_o that_o be_v a_o actual_a and_o explicit_a reflect_v on_o conscience_n when_o a_o man_n do_v indeed_o express_o and_o downright_o put_v himself_o to_o it_o to_o inquire_v conscience_n sense_n of_o his_o action_n a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n be_v when_o conscience_n be_v not_o always_o actual_o observable_o and_o express_o speak_v by_o a_o positive_a approbation_n yet_o it_o be_v so_o indirect_o virtual_o and_o on_o the_o matter_n and_o be_v ready_a actual_o to_o do_v so_o when_o put_v to_o it_o and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a reflect_v on_o conscience_n be_v when_o man_n be_v not_o always_o actual_o and_o express_o ask_v their_o conscience_n what_o it_o say_v when_o yet_o they_o do_v it_o implicit_o virtual_o and_o on_o the_o matter_n and_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o do_v it_o actual_o when_o put_v to_o it_o which_o may_v be_v illustrate_v by_o the_o similitude_n make_v use_v of_o before_o the_o habitual_a and_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n and_o reflect_v on_o it_o be_v like_o the_o put_n of_o a_o instrument_n of_o music_n in_o a_o right_a tune_n and_o then_o we_o say_v it_o be_v in_o tune_n though_o none_o be_v play_v on_o it_o because_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v a_o distinct_a and_o harmonious_a sound_n have_v all_o the_o string_n right_a in_o tune_n a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a testimony_n and_o reflect_v be_v like_o a_o man_n strike_v or_o play_v on_o the_o well_o tune_a instrument_n and_o bring_v out_o actual_o the_o just_a musical_a sound_n that_o be_v habitual_o in_o the_o tune_a instrument_n before_o now_o to_o apply_v this_o particular_o in_o answer_n to_o the_o question_n we_o say_v 1._o that_o in_o three_o case_n a_o actual_a and_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n and_o reflect_v on_o it_o be_v necessary_a 1._o as_o to_o a_o man_n undertake_v of_o any_o action_n or_o duty_n that_o he_o be_v clear_a in_o it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n 2_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o thing_n when_o do_v because_o it_o be_v that_o which_o give_v he_o peace_n for_o a_o man_n reflect_v on_o conscience_n and_o its_o testimony_n here_o be_v like_o play_v on_o the_o instrument_n 3._o it_o be_v necessary_a as_o to_o a_o man_n stare_n but_o 2._o we_o say_v a_o explicit_a testimony_n and_o actual_a inquire_v at_o conscience_n be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a always_o along_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n or_o it_o be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a that_o a_o man_n actual_o reflect_v and_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n always_o or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n along_o the_o action_n though_o habitual_o and_o implicit_o he_o ought_v for_o the_o keep_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v like_a to_o that_o general_a precept_n speak_v of_o before_o anent_o do_v what_o ever_o we_o do_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n at_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o our_o action_n and_o that_o be_v found_v on_o this_o where_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a that_o all_o along_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n or_o in_o every_o moment_n as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v we_o shall_v have_v actual_a and_o explicit_a thought_n of_o this_o end_n viz._n god_n glory_n but_o if_o this_o end_n be_v intend_v in_o the_o whole_a current_n of_o our_o life_n habitual_o and_o actual_o in_o the_o entry_n of_o every_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n though_o there_o be_v not_o actual_a and_o explicit_a thought_n of_o it_o always_o along_o the_o action_n we_o may_v warrantable_o expect_v on_o christ_n account_n god_n approbation_n as_o do_v to_o his_o glory_n so_o be_v it_o here_o as_o when_o a_o man_n undertake_v a_o journey_n to_o such_o a_o place_n it_o be_v sufficient_a before_o he_o set_v out_o he_o actual_o and_o explicit_o mind_v that_o place_n and_o that_o he_o do_v so_o now_o and_o then_o by_o the_o way_n and_o especial_o if_o he_o observe_v any_o turn_n off_o or_o hazard_v of_o go_v out_o of_o the_o way_n or_o if_o he_o have_v not_o often_o go_v that_o way_n before_o though_o he_o have_v not_o actual_a thought_n of_o it_o all_o along_o everystep_n of_o the_o way_n but_o to_o clear_v this_o in_o a_o word_n or_o two_o further_a we_o conceive_v that_o these_o three_o particular_o be_v necessary_a for_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o the_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v that_o a_o man_n conicience_n be_v always_o in_o a_o readiness_n to_o give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n which_o import_v three_o thing_n 1._o that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o the_o matter_n of_o his_o practice_n that_o it_o be_v nothing_o sinful_a that_o he_o be_v about_o 2._o that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o the_o frame_n of_o his_o spirit_n spiritual_a stay_v and_o compose_v 3._o that_o he_o be_v careful_o watchful_a to_o prevent_v what_o ever_o may_v ma●_n his_o peace_n and_o to_o guard_v against_o what_o may_v distemper_v and_o discompose_v his_o spirit_n and_o that_o withal_o he_o be_v studious_a to_o keep_v his_o conscience_n in_o a_o good_a temper_n or_o tune_n to_o speak_v so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o readiness_n to_o give_v he_o a_o testimony_n when_o he_o call_v for_o it_o these_o three_o be_v necessary_a i_o say_v in_o every_o particular_a action_n for_o keep_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o a_o man_n be_v in_o a_o thing_n that_o for_o the_o matter_n be_v right_a that_o he_o be_v in_o a_o compose_a and_o suitable_a frame_n and_o that_o he_o be_v watchful_a against_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v hinder_v or_o distemper_v he_o in_o prosecute_a that_o action_n 2._o though_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a testimony_n and_o reflect_v be_v not_o always_o or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n necessary_a yet_o it_o will_v be_v frequent_a and_o the_o more_o frequent_a ready_o the_o better_a though_o for_o instance_n in_o every_o word_n of_o prayer_n one_o can_v actual_o
and_o towards_o the_o corinthian_n 2_o he_o reflect_v on_o and_o try_v his_o very_a best_a action_n be_v it_o even_o those_o of_o a_o man_n ministry_n of_o his_o preach_v prayer_n etc._n etc._n not_o as_o some_o who_o think_v it_o enough_o to_o reflect_v only_o on_o sinful_a action_n such_o as_o swear_v lie_a deceive_a oppress_a etc._n etc._n which_o need_v but_o little_a trial_n the_o sinfulness_n of_o they_o be_v often_o obvious_a as_o it_o be_v at_o first_o blush_n but_o the_o tender_a man_n try_v these_o action_n that_o have_v the_o best_a appearance_n that_o he_o may_v know_v if_o they_o be_v in_o very_a deed_n what_o they_o appear_v to_o be_v 3_o he_o be_v particular_a in_o his_o trial_n he_o not_o only_o try_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o general_n ba●_n as_o paul_n do_v here_o his_o conversation_n at_o such_o a_o time_n so_o such_o a_o place_n and_o in_o such_o company_n o_o in_o how_o many_o particular_n do_v holy_a job_n instance_n chap._n 3●_n 4●y_o a_o tender_a man_n wiil_n go_v far_o back_o even_o when_o old_a to_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o youth_n as_o david_n do_v when_o he_o pray_v psal._n 25._o 7._o remember_v not_o against_o i_o the_o sin_n of_o my_o youth_n i_o remember_v godly_a augustin_n in_o his_o confession_n go_v as_o far_o back_o as_o he_o can_v remember_v and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o he_o say_v that_o when_o he_o look_v on_o the_o little_a cankering_n and_o ●rowardnesse_n of_o infant_n he_o be_v put_v to_o think_v of_o what_o be_v the_o first_o out-breaking_n of_o his_o sinful_a nature_n when_o he_o be_v on_o the_o breast_n david_n look_v far_o back_o when_o he_o say_v psal._n 51._o 5._o i_o be_v shape_v in_o iniquity_n and_o in_o sin_n do_v my_o mother_n conceive_v i_o 5_o he_o be_v frequent_a in_o reflect_v and_o try_v and_o the_o more_o tender_a the_o more_o freq●ant_a he_o will_v not_o ready_o let_v slip_v no●_n suffer_v to_o pass_v one_o day_n without_o it_o yea_o he_o will_v sometime_o try_v often_o in_o one_o day_n on_o the_o back_n of_o this_o and_o that_o piece_n of_o his_o walk_n especial_o of_o any_o more_o solemn_a action_n yea_o which_o be_v yet_o more_o he_o will_v come_v often_o over_o one_o and_o the_o same_o action_n or_o thing_n so_o that_o when_o he_o have_v take_v a_o look_n of_o it_o to_o day_n he_o will_v take_v another_o look_n of_o it_o tomorrow_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o depth_n of_o iniquity_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o be_v not_o soon_o nor_o easy_o plumb_v he_o look_v often_o on_o the_o same_o action_n that_o he_o may_v find_v it_o out_o that_o the_o discovery_n and_o sense_n of_o it_o may_v be_v the_o more_o fresh_a and_o deep_o affect_v for_o his_o humiliation_n it_o be_v on_o this_o ground_n that_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o his_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n whereof_o if_o the_o testimony_n be_v approve_v the_o frequent_a go_v over_o it_o make_v it_o to_o be_v the_o more_o vive_a clear_a and_o comfortable_a second_o this_o may_v be_v know_v as_o i_o say_v by_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o which_o be_v notable_a for_o 1._o a_o ●ender_a man_n that_o be_v frequent_a in_o reflect_v thus_o be_v a_o watchful_a man_n the_o bite_v of_o conscience_n by_o its_o challenge_n for_o past_a and_o by-gone_a 〈◊〉_d make_v he_o look_v better_o to_o himself_o for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v and_o put_v he_o with_o holy_a and_o tender_a job_n chap._n 31._o to_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o his_o eye_n that_o he_o may_v look_v right_o on_o and_o not_o wander_v to_o covenant_n with_o his_o affection_n that_o they_o wander_v and_o range_v not_o up_o and_o down_o in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o world_n a●d_v of_o the_o variety_n of_o vain_a object_n therein_o to_o the_o divert_v of_o he_o from_o a_o close_a and_o con●ant_a pursuit_n after_o god_n 2._o he_o can_v give_v a_o distinct_a account_n of_o himself_o and_o of_o his_o way_n and_o do_v not_o ready_o and_o easy_o forget_v thing_n but_o be_v in_o case_n to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o this_o which_o he_o do_v and_o of_o that_o which_o he_o speak_v as_o job_n instance_v in_o a_o multitude_n of_o particular_n chap._n 31._o he_o can_v give_v a_o legend_n as_o it_o be_v of_o his_o life_n which_o i_o fear_v but_o few_o of_o we_o can_v do_v to_o good_a purpose_n this_o way_n i_o remember_v that_o holy_a man_n augustin_n tell_v that_o at_o such_o a_o time_n while_o he_o be_v sing_v a_o psalm_n he_o observe_v his_o heart_n ready_a to_o str●y_v and_o to_o be_v more_o take_v up_o with_o the_o external_a music_n then_o with_o spiritual_a joy_n in_o god_n and_o relate_v several_a of_o his_o prank_n when_o he_o be_v a_o child_n 3_o he_o be_v a_o man_n distinct_a and_o full_a in_o the_o confession_n of_o sin_n he_o never_o want_v a_o evil_a tale_n to_o speak_v so_o to_o tell_v of_o himself_o yea_o he_o must_v and_o will_v tell_v it_o when_o it_o may_v glorify_v god_n and_o edify_v other_o he_o can_v speak_v particular_o of_o the_o evil_a of_o his_o heart_n and_o of_o his_o way_n he_o be_v not_o a_o stranger_n to_o it_o neither_o do_v he_o hide_v his_o sin_n as_o adam_n as_o job_n speak_v chap._n 31._o v._n 33._o it_o be_v sure_a one_o great_a reason_n why_o we_o be_v so_o little_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n even_o that_o we_o be_v so_o little_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o self-reflection_n 4._o he_o be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o that_o which_o he_o discover_v he_o not_o only_o see_v his_o way_n with_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o action_n but_o it_o touch_v he_o one_o great_a reason_n why_o we_o see_v somany_a sin_n and_o be_v so_o little_o affect_v with_o they_o i●_n that_o we_o take_v not_o the_o censure_n of_o they_o from_o conscience_n and_o consider_v not_o due_o what_o weight_n its_o sense_n and_o censure_n of_o they_o shall_v have_v with_o we_o and_o by_o proportion_n this_o be_v a_o reason_n why_o christian_n be_v so_o little_o comfort_v in_o good_a action_n 5._o the_o re●ecting_a tender_a man_n be_v a_o pray_a man_n as_o he_o be_v much_o i●_n co●ssing_v of_o sin_n so_o he_o be_v much_o in_o prayer_n and_o serious_a in_o it_o and_o at_o no_o time_n ready_o more_o frequent_a and_o serious_a then_o when_o his_o sin_n be_v before_o he_o as_o david_n sin_n be_v ever_o before_o he_o psal._n 51._o 3._o which_o make_v he_o so_o very_o serious_a in_o prayer_n there_o and_o as_o he_o be_v serious_a in_o prayer_n so_o he_o have_v much_o holy_a indignation_n at_o sin_n and_o a_o great_a loathe_n at_o himself_o for_o it_o he_o can_v speak_v suitable_o of_o it_o and_o demonstrat_fw-la the_o vileness_n of_o it_o to_o the_o life_n and_o aggravat_fw-la it_o to_o the_o height_n while_o he_o say_v against_o thou_o thou_o only_o have_v i_o sin_v and_o do_v this_o evil_n in_o thy_o sight_n he_o look_v not_o at_o it_o as_o a_o sin_n of_o in●mity_n but_o as_o a_o sin_n commit_v with_o a_o high_a hand_n i_o know_v say_v he_o thou_o love_v truth_n i●_n the_o inward_a part_n but_o i_o have_v thus_o far_o play_v the_o hypocrite_n come_v out_o with_o a_o fair_a show_n before_o man_n when_o sin_n be_v rage_v in_o secret_a within_o i_o thus_o 2_o cor._n 7._o 11._o true_a repentance_n be_v describe_v from_o its_o effect_n ●t_a have_v holy_a and_o high_a indignation_n and_o revenge_n attend_v reflection_n on_o it_o ezek._n 16._o v_o 61._o &_o ch_n 36._o v._n 31_o there_o be_v a_o remember_v he_o blush_a a_o be_v ashamed_a and_o a_o loathe_n of_o themselves_o the_o man_n be_v thus_o vile_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n think_v very_o little_a of_o himself_o and_o loathe_v himself_o very_o much_o 6._o he_o be_v well_o content_a when_o he_o discover_v a_o ground_n of_o challenge_n where_o it_o be_v he_o hunt_v not_o after_o approbation_n and_o applause_n but_o be_v satisfy_v to_o have_v a_o just_a and_o necessary_a challenge_n as_o well_o as_o to_o be_v approven_v though_o the_o one_o have_v much_o more_o peace_n and_o comfort_n with_o it_o then_o the_o other_o let_v the_o righteous_a smite_v i_o say_v the_o psalmist_n psal._n 141._o 5._o and_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o kindness_n and_o let_v he_o reprove_v i_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o oil_n that_o shall_v not_o break_v my_o head_n so_o when_o his_o conscience_n smite_v he_o it_o act_n in_o his_o esteem_n the_o part_n of_o a_o good_a friend_n he_o welcome_v it_o when_o there_o be_v ground_n for_o it_o and_o repine_v not_o against_o it_o 7._o he_o have_v a_o deep_a impression_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n on_o his_o spirit_n for_o his_o lay_v so_o great_a a_o weight_n on_o conscience_n his_o deput_n suggest_v to_o he_o the_o suitablenesse_n of_o think_v high_o of_o god_n himself_o and_o of_o
mind_v to_o balk_v ●one_n but_o to_o go_v through_o all_o before_o you_o give_v over_o the_o work_n it_o will_v be_v better_a to_o betake_v yourselves_o to_o the_o search_n and_o examination_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a duty_n or_o of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o day_n work_v and_o duty_n and_o thus_o you_o will_v win_v the_o better_a in_o on_o it_o and_o through_o it_o and_o the_o heap_n will_v grow_v the_o less_o but_o meddle_v not_o with_o another_o till_o you_o have_v with_o some_o suitableness_n dispatch_v and_o put_v by_o this_o 3_o if_o you_o can_v win_v for_o the_o time_n so_o to_o fix_v on_o particular_n take_v your_o confuse_a condition_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o think_v on_o a_o while_n and_o look_v not_o at_o this_o as_o nothing_o that_o you_o have_v find_v your_o condition_n to_o be_v confuse_v david_n condition_n be_v somewhat_o thus_o when_o he_o say_v psal._n 44._o v_o 15_o my_o confusion_n be_v continual_o before_o i_o the_o take_n and_o lay_v of_o your_o case_n confuse_v as_o it_o be_v before_o god_n and_o your_o conscience_n may_v help_v to_o humble_a and_o kind_o to_o affect_v your_o heart_n 4_o the_o more_o confuse_a your_o case_n be_v seek_v to_o take_v it_o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o god_n and_o to_o draw_v the_o near_a to_o he_o let_v it_o be_v make_v a_o motive_n to_o set_v you_o on_o to_o deal_v the_o more_o serious_o with_o he_o to_o dispel_v your_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n as_o je●_n do_v while_o he_o say_v chap._n 10._o v._n 15._o i_o be_o full_a of_o confusion_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o my_o affliction_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v lord_n i_o can_v rid_v no●_n order_n my_o case_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o it_o and_o give_v i_o clearness_n for_o though_o a_o person_n have_v a_o confuse_a condition_n yet_o he_o may_v be_v somewhat_o distinct_a in_o lay_v it_o out_o before_o god_n as_o it_o be_v and_o may_v be_v clear_a in_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o when_o it_o say_v that_o it_o be_v confuse_v 5_o whether_o our_o condition_n be_v confuse_v or_o no●_n we_o will_v be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o every_o particular_a that_o we_o find_v in_o it_o and_o this_o may_v be_v one_o reason_n of_o our_o confusion_n that_o we_o have_v more_o clearness_n than_o we_o improve_v well_o we_o see_v many_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n but_o the_o ●ight_n affect_v we_o not_o neither_o do_v we_o suitable_o endeavour_v to_o repent_v of_o the_o evil_n which_o we_o see_v nor_o to_o amend_v they_o nor_o do_v 〈◊〉_d flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n to_o get_v they_o pardon_v and_o cure_v but_o when_o the_o little_a clearness_n that_o we_o have_v be_v well_o improven_v it_o be_v the_o way_n to_o get_v more_o but_o what_o need_n be_v there_o of_o more_o light_n and_o of_o more_o clearness_n when_o that_o which_o we_o have_v be_v not_o due_o make_v use_n of_o a_o 3d._a objection_n be_v some_o may_v think_v and_o say_v we_o be_v essay_v self-examination_n and_o yet_o we_o find_v much_o difficulty_n to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o conscience_n its_o language_n whether_o it_o be_v awell_v ground_v challenge_n or_o a_o approve_v testimony_n this_o objection_n be_v much_o like_a unto_o that_o question_n which_o we_o speak_v to_o alittle_o in_o our_o second_o sermon_n on_o act_n 24._o v_o 16._o viz._n whether_o conscience_n its_o impulse_n may_v not_o sometime_o be_v wrong_a to_o which_o we_o answer_v affirmative_o and_o do_v yet_o grant_v that_o it_o may_v mistake_v and_o be_v mistake_v by_o we_o and_o what_o we_o say_v there_o for_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v useful_a here_o towards_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o objection_n yet_o we_o shall_v now_o speak_v a_o word_n further_o to_o it_o for_o answer_v then_o we_o shall_v easy_o yield_v that_o it_o be_v indeed_o sometime_o difficult_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n to_o say_v so_o of_o conscience_n and_o to_o understand_v its_o language_n in_o reflect_v as_o well_o as_o in_o deliberate_v either_o 1._o through_o the_o dimness_n of_o people_n light_n that_o they_o scarce_o know_v the_o rule_n or_o 2_o through_o their_o be_v partial_a and_o negligent_a in_o compare_v their_o way_n and_o action_n with_o the_o rule_n but_o either_o hide_v it_o whole_o or_o at_o le●st_a some_o circumstance_n of_o it_o without_o bring_v it_o forth_o and_o lay_v it_o to_o the_o rule_n or_o 3_o it_o may_v be_v through_o some_o bias_n in_o their_o affection_n that_o make_v they_o unsingle_a so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o or_o 4_o it_o may_v be_v from_o some_o unwarrantable_a and_o groundless_a prejudice_n at_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o way_n so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v a_o testimony_n from_o conscience_n even_o when_o it_o give_v they_o a_o good_a one_o and_o therefore_o in_o your_o self-examination_n you_o will_v carry_v some_o advertisement_n along_o with_o you_o which_o will_v be_v helpful_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n 1._o you_o will_v try_v whether_o conscience_n be_v impartial_a and_o if_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v to_o both_o hand_n to_o say_v so_o accuse_v ●n_o some_o thing_n and_o excuse_v in_o other_o in_o some_o thing_n speak_v peace_n and_o in_o other_o challenge_v for_o sin_n for_o if_o when_o you_o reflect_v conscience_n speak_v all_o or_o only_a peace_n it_o be_v certain_o wrong_a because_o in_o the_o best_a there_o be_v less_o or_o more_o guilt_n contract_v in_o what_o ever_o you_o go_v about_o but_o if_o beside_o what_o be_v right_a it_o point_v also_o at_o something_o that_o be_v wrong_n it_o be_v conscience_n right_a language_n on_o the_o contrary_a when_o you_o reflect_v if_o conscience_n speak_v all_o to_o be_v wrong_n though_o there_o be_v some_o sincerity_n in_o your_o aim_n it_o be_v mistake_v for_o when_o it_o speak_v a_o right_a it_o speak_v always_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o what_o he_o say_v be_v wrong_n or_o right_n it_o say_v so_o of_o it_o also_o so_o in_o the_o epistle_n to_o ephesus_n rev._n 2._o as_o the_o lord_n charge_v they_o that_o they_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n so_o do_v conscience_n yet_o as_o he_o tell_v they_o that_o there_o be_v something_o right_n in_o as_o far_o as_o they_o have_v labour_v for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o hate_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o he_o hate_v etc._n etc._n so_o do_v conscience_n also_o testify_v the_o same_o and_o so_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o epistle_n to_o these_o seven_o church_n as_o god_n be_v impartial_a in_o his_o testimony_n so_o be_v conscience_n when_o right_o 2_o you_o will_v advert_v to_o the_o ground_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v speak_v or_o to_o that_o on_o account_n of_o which_o it_o testify_v for_o you_o or_o against_o you_o for_o as_o in_o our_o forbear_n of_o one_o action_n and_o in_o our_o choose_n of_o another_o we_o be_v to_o forbear_v or_o to_o choose_v and_o proceed_v according_a as_o conscience_n hold_v ou●_n clear_a light_n and_o reason_n for_o it_o so_o upon_o the_o back_n of_o any_o action_n or_o duty_n perform_v when_o we_o go_v to_o reflect_v we_o will_v try_v the_o ground_n whether_o of_o conscience_n its_o challenge_n or_o of_o its_o good_a testimony_n if_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v try_v well_o whether_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o sin_n for_o which_o it_o do_v so_o if_o it_o approve_v and_o speak_v peace_n try_v on_o what_o ground_n it_o do_v so_o conscience_n will_v some_o way_n testify_v of_o the_o action_n but_o you_o will_v try_v if_o it_o be_v sinful_a or_o not_o according_a to_o the_o word_n ol_fw-mi god_n which_o suppose_v knowledge_n in_o the_o thing_n and_o of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n concern_v it_o wherein_o any_o especial_o more_o considerable_a defect_n even_o in_o conscientious_a and_o ●ender_a christian_n be_v wait_v with_o its_o own_o prejudice_n hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v as_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o a_o accou●t_n rom._n 14._o that_o many_o of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n through_o the_o weakness_n of_o their_o knowledge_n be_v make_v to_o judge_v such_o and_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n as_o the_o eat_n of_o such_o and_o such_o meat_n their_o conscience_n judge_v according_a to_o their_o knowledge_n when_o yet_o indeed_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o wrong_v though_o as_o the_o apostle_n there_o say_v to_o he_o that_o esteem_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v unclean_a to_o he_o it_o be_v unclean_a therefore_o we_o will_v be_v the_o more_o holy_o jealous_a over_o ourselves_o lest_o we_o find_v our_o peace_n on_o a_o delude_a testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n and_o for_o prevent_v of_o that_o we_o will_v put_v ●t_a to_o give_v its_o reason_n for_o and_o evidence_n of_o what_o
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
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
what_o wonder_n be_v it_o that_o such_o person_n neglect_v to_o reflect_v and_o look_v back_o on_o their_o way_n and_o to_o examine_v themselves_o for_o as_o job_n say_v chap._n 24_o v._n 17._o of_o the_o morning_n to_o the_o adulterer_n their_o way_n to_o they_o be_v as_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n yet_o even_o these_o will_v know_v for_o a_o certainty_n that_o their_o conscience_n will_v speak_v and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o terrible_o as_o now_o they_o neglect_v to_o take_v any_o notice_n of_o they_o a_o second_o sort_v make_v a_o kind_n of_o conscience_n of_o external_a duty_n in_o religion_n such_o as_o hear_n prayer_n read_v the_o scripture_n and_o the_o like_a but_o do_v neglect_v more_o spiritual_a and_o inward_a duty_n such_o as_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n the_o humble_v of_o the_o heart_n for_o it_o wrestle_v with_o god_n to_o have_v victory_n over_o it_o meditation_n and_o the_o like_a now_o this_o duty_n which_o we_o be_v press_v be_v of_o that_o sort_n and_o serve_v not_o a_o little_a to_o further_a repentance_n and_o mortification_n and_o to_o make_v serious_a in_o prayer_n they_o must_v and_o can_v but_o neglect_v it_o because_o they_o design_v nor_o neither_o aim_n at_o these_o end_n to_o which_o it_o be_v subservient_fw-fr a_o 3d._n sort_v be_v such_o who_o may_v now_o and_o then_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o tenderness_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o some_o duty_n and_o in_o abstain_v from_o several_a sin_n and_o yet_o they_o mind_v not_o nor_o make_v conscience_n at_o all_o of_o this_o duty_n i_o suppose_v there_o be_v many_o of_o you_o who_o have_v your_o own_o time_n for_o prayer_n read_v and_o the_o like_a who_o take_v no_o 〈◊〉_d all_o for_o this_o duty_n i_o will_v as●_n such_o of_o you_o if_o you_o can_v make_v conscience_n of_o other_o duty_n because_o god_n command_v they_o who_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o this_o see_v its_o as_o clear_o command_v as_o any_o of_o these_o deceive_v not_o yourselves_o god_n will_v not_o be_v mock_v a_o four_o sort_v be_v such_o as_o make_v some_o essay_n or_o rather_o mint_n to_o go_v about_o even_o this_o duty_n but_o be_v overly_o general_a confu●ed_v indistinct_a soon_o satisfy_v and_o put_v to_o a_o stand_n in_o it_o take_v only_o a_o hasty_a view_n of_o it_o in_o the_o by_o or_o a_o little_a transient_a look_n of_o it_o when_o they_o go_v to_o prayer_n but_o fall_v not_o purposely_o about_o it_o as_o a_o distinct_a duty_n and_o a_o up_o take_v work_n do_v not_o dwell_v upon_o and_o insist_v in_o it_o to_o have_v the_o circumstance_n of_o their_o action_n and_o way_n un-folded_n lay_v open_a make_v naked_a and_o bare_a at_o the_o bar_n of_o conscience_n a_o 5_o sort_v may_v come_v some_o length_n in_o the_o duty_n but_o they_o follow_v not_o the_o work_n till_o they_o be_v suitable_o affect_v humble_a and_o make_v serious_a much_o less_o till_o the_o duty_n be_v make_v delightsome_a to_o they_o til●_n i●_n six_o a_o impression_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n on_o they_o and_o lay_v a_o necessity_n on_o they_o to_o employ_v christ_n more_o but_o it_o be_v with_o they_o in_o this_o matter_n as_o james_n speak_v chap._n 1._o of_o these_o who_o behold_v their_o natural_a face_n in_o a_o glass_n go_v their_o way_n and_o forget_v what_o manner_n of_o person_n they_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o their_o self-examination_n be_v either_o not_o attain_v or_o it_o have_v little_a or_o no_o impression_n on_o they_o and_o this_o be_v it_o which_o make_v man_n not_o to_o be_v in_o love_n with_o the_o duty_n because_o they_o follow_v it_o not_o till_o they_o get_v somewhat_o of_o the_o lovely_a fruit_n of_o it_o and_o here_o many_o even_a believer_n be_v as_o to_o several_a degree_n guilty_a a_o 6_o sort_v be_v also_o here_o reprovable_a who_o though_o they_o come_v a_o little_a further_o to_o look_v on_o their_o way_n and_o to_o desire_v conscience_n its_o sense_n thereof_o and_o to_o be_v affect_v with_o what_o they_o find_v in_o the_o search_n yet_o they_o seek_v not_o to_o be_v distinct_a and_o thorough_o clear_a in_o the_o matter_n neither_o be_v they_o impartial_a in_o set_v about_o to_o discover_v every_o thing_n that_o be_v wrong_n in_o their_o condition_n but_o some_o come_v to_o look_v and_o see_v what_o be_v right_a to_o strengthen_v on_o the_o matter_n at_o least_o their_o security_n other_o come_v to_o see_v what_o be_v wrong_n which_o be_v somewhat_o indeed_o preferable_a to_o the_o other_o to_o strengthen_v their_o unbelief_n or_o misbelieve_a jealousy_n of_o themselves_o and_o so_o make_v it_o a_o sort_n of_o penance_n to_o themselves_o as_o if_o they_o be_v put_v themselves_o on_o the_o rack_n whereas_o a_o impartial_a search_n and_o examination_n of_o our_o way_n which_o be_v the_o thing_n call_v for_o set_v we_o on_o serious_o to_o discover_v what_o be_v right_a and_o what_o be_v wrong_a in_o our_o condition_n and_o according_o to_o take_v and_o be_v affect_v with_o it_o but_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o one_o or_o other_o but_o one_o way_n or_o other_o they_o fa●l_v and_o be_v more_o or_o less_o guilty_a in_o this_o matter_n which_o will_v put_v all_o according_a to_o their_o respective_a guilt_n to_o be_v humble_v before_o the_o lord_n to_o seek_v his_o pardon_n and_o grace_n to_o amend_v that_o we_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o loath_a the_o neglect_n and_o overly_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n i_o ●all_n in_o the_o 2d_o place_n name_n some_o evil_n that_o it_o bring_v with_o it_o and_o that_o in_o these_o four_o respect_n 1._o as_o it_o evidence_n and_o speak_v out_o a_o very_a untender_a frame_n for_o if_o it_o evidence_n a_o tender_a frame_n to_o be_v exact_a in_o this_o duty_n than_o it_o certain_o speak_v out_o a_o untender_a frame_n to_o neglect_v it_o or_o to_o be_v superficial_a in_o it_o and_o where_o the_o neglect_n or_o superficiariness_n be_v habitual_a and_o regnant_a they_o be_v shrewd_a evidence_n of_o a_o evil_a state_n the_o utter_a neglect_n of_o it_o say_v 1_o that_o such_o a_o man_n care_v not_o for_o god_n and_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o he_o that_o he_o care_v not_o whether_o god_n be_v well_o please_v or_o evil_o please_v when_o he_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o reflect_v and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o god_n within_o he_o 2._o it_o speak_v out_o little_a respect_n to_o conscience_n and_o say_v that_o man_n care_v not_o whether_o conscience_n be_v for_o they_o or_o against_o they_o yea_o it_o say_v that_o they_o think_v on_o the_o matter_n at_o least_o that_o its_o a_o useless_a thing_n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n and_o can_v he_o possible_o be_v a_o tender_a man_n that_o be_v not_o tender_a in_o respect_n to_o his_o conscience_n 3._o it_o speak_v forth_o a_o man_n not_o to_o be_v in_o love_n with_o holiness_n for_o ●f_a self-examination_n be_v a_o notable_a mean_n to_o promove_v holiness_n and_o if_o none_o without_o it_o can_v be_v holy_a if_o there_o can_v be_v no_o repentance_n for_o sin_n no_o mortification_n etc._n etc._n without_o it_o then_o sure_a the_o man_n that_o neglect_v it_o care_v not_o for_o holiness_n it_o evidence_n a_o man_n to_o be_v void_a of_o all_o religion_n fearless_o of_o judgement_n and_o careless_a whether_o his_o debt_n be_v pay_v or_o not_o when_o he_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o search_v out_o what_o he_o be_v owe_v 2_o we_o may_v consider_v the_o neglect_n of_o this_o duty_n as_o ●t_a be_v exceed_o obstructive_a to_o the_o great_a spiritual_a good_a and_o advantage_n that_o a_o man_n shall_v aim_v a●_n in_o the_o mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o lively_a performance_n of_o duty_n viz._n to_o obtain_v solid_a peace_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n and_o to_o have_v any_o measure_n of_o discern_v or_o spiritual_a feel_n thereof_o and_o can_v any_o of_o these_o be_v win_v at_o without_o this_o can_v you_o pray_v serious_o can_v you_o repent_v can_v you_o mortify_v sin_n can_v you_o praise_v god_n or_o delight_n in_o he_o who_o have_v not_o be_v re●ecting_v to_o find_v out_o sin_n to_o repent_v for_o nor_o consider_v whether_o there_o ●e_v any_o grace_n in_o you_o for_o which_o you_o shall_v be_v thankful_a and_o for_o spiritual_a joy_n can_n a_o man_n possible_o have_v it_o if_o he_o know_v not_o how_o it_o stand_v with_o he_o before_o god_n and_o a_o man_n can_v never_o know_v how_o ●t_a stand_v betwixt_o god_n and_o he_o till_o he_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n clear_a how_o it_o stand_v with_o he_o before_o his_o conscience_n or_o betwixt_o he_o and_o his_o conscience_n 3_o consider_v further_o the_o evil_a of_o this_o neglect_n in_o respect_n of_o its_o sinfulness_n in_o itself_o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v exceed_o sinful_a as_o its_o a_o neglect_n o●_n clear_a duty_n and_o a_o breach_n of_o a_o
clear_a command_n yea_o as_o its_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o notable_a mean_n for_o the_o suitable_a performance_n of_o all_o other_o duty_n so_o that_o wherever_o prayer_n repentance_n hear_v read_v etc._n etc._n be_v command_v this_o be_v also_o on_o the_o matter_n command_v and_o as_o many_o duty_n as_o be_v command_v of_o as_o many_o breach_n of_o these_o command_n be_v we_o guilty_a when_o this_o duty_n be_v neglect_v consider_v that_o when_o ever_o we_o be_v command_v to_o do_v any_o duty_n we_o be_v command_v also_o to_o use_v all_o the_o mean_n that_o may_v further_o we_o towards_o the_o suitable_a performance_n thereof_o and_o this_o be_v a_o special_a mean_a requisite_a to_o the_o right_a performance_n of_o every_o duty_n it_o be_v therefore_o command_v in_o every_o other_o command_v duty_n we_o may_v in●ance_v it_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n this_o help_v a_o man_n to_o begin_v it_o aright_o it_o go_v along_o with_o he_o in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o day_n and_o when_o it_o be_v over_o and_o by_o it_o help_v he_o to_o discover_v his_o ●ailings_n and_o short_a come_n and_o his_o act_n of_o grace_n where_o it_o be_v and_o spiritual_a attainment_n in_o these_o duty_n and_o to_o be_v according_o affect_v and_o the_o neglect_n of_o it_o be_v à_fw-fr breach_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n both_o before_o and_o after_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o public_a or_o private_a or_o secret_a duty_n of_o worship_n call_v for_o on_o that_o day_n and_o so_o proportionable_o in_o other_o duty_n 4_o we_o may_v look_v upon_o it_o in_o respect_n of_o its_o be_v a_o nursery_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o evil_n it_o harbour_v end_n entertain_v lust_n it_o harden_v the_o heart_n strengthen_v security_n it_o cherish_v hypocrisy_n it_o bring_v on_o formality_n and_o impenitency_n it_o as_o it_o be_v lock_v up_o in_o presumption_n and_o carnal_a confidence_n it_o wear_v man_n out_o from_o under_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o from_o under_o all_o due_a respect_n 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
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
apostle_n 1_o peter_n 2._o 19_o or_o if_o he_o give_v a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n to_o ●_o disciple_n in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n he_o shall_v not_o lose_v his_o reward_n matth._n 10_o 42._o thus_o two_o person_n come_v to_o church_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n the_o one_o out_o of_o conscience_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n command_n and_o from_o love_n to_o fellow_n ship_n with_o he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n and_o the_o other_o for_o the_o fashion_n and_o because_o its_o the_o custom_n or_o that_o he_o may_v eschew_v from_o his_o own_o conscience_n the_o construction_n and_o accusation_n of_o his_o be_v a_o grisly_a pro●ane_n and_o it_o religious_a person_n or_o on_o some_o such_o other_o sinister_a account_n the_o one_o h●th_v in_o so_o far_o ground_n of_o peace_n and_o the_o refresh_a testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o other_o not_o 5_o conscience_n must_v be_v satisfy_v in_o this_o question_n in_o who_o strength_n be_v the_o duty_n undertake_v be_v it_o in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v he_o depend_v on_o for_o assistance_n in_o the_o go_n about_o of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o that_o the_o duty_n be_v go_v about_o and_o he_o some_o way_n acknowledge_v in_o it_o unless_o he_o be_v also_o believe_o depend_v on_o for_o strength_n to_o enable_v to_o the_o suitable_a performance_n of_o it_o 6_o what_o be_v your_o end_n in_o undertake_v and_o prosecute_n of_o such_o a_o duty_n or_o action_n whether_o be_v it_o some_o self-end_n or_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o as_o in_o your_o eat_n and_o drink_v do_v you_o eat_v and_o drink_v to_o satisfy_v your_o appetit_fw-la only_o or_o main_o or_o to_o enable_v you_o to_o serve_v god_n and_o to_o do_v good_a to_o other_o in_o your_o station_n and_o capacity_n in_o your_o seek_v such_o and_o such_o gift_n from_o god_n by_o prayer_n whether_o be_v it_o that_o you_o may_v bestow_v or_o consume_v they_o on_o your_o lust_n as_o james_n say_v some_o do_v chap._n 4._o 3._o or_o be_v it_o that_o you_o may_v be_v help_v to_o adorn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n the_o propose_v of_o a_o right_a end_n be_v a_o main_a ingredient_n in_o every_o action_n and_o have_v great_a influence_n on_o your_o peace_n we_o preach_v not_o our_o self_n save_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 4._o 5._o b●t_n christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n we_o be_v as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v in_o our_o preach_n not_o seek_v ourselves_o but_o he_o nor_o our_o own_o praise_n or_o applause_n to_o ourselves_o but_o his_o glory_n and_o exaltation_n and_o this_o have_v much_o influence_n on_o his_o peace_n and_o joy_n conscience_n must_v be_v also_o satisfy_v in_o this_o by_o any_o mean_n 7_o after_o what_o manner_n be_v the_o action_n or_o duty_n go_v about_o be_v it_o in_o sincerity_n and_o singleness_n in_o a_o spiritual_a way_n be_v the_o inner_a and_o new_a man_n exercise_v in_o it_o suppose_v the_o duty_n for_o instance_n to_o be_v prayer_n be_v it_o go_v about_o in_o the_o spirit_n be_v grace_n act_v in_o it_o and_o be_v you_o serious_a lively_a humble_a tender_a reverend_a servant_n etc._n etc._n in_o it_o 8_o be_v there_o nothing_o wrong_v in_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n no_o mixture_n of_o corruption_n with_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n no_o selfinesse_n mix_v with_o your_o singleness_n or_o at_o the_o best_a be_v there_o not_o some_o mixture_n of_o other_o end_n with_o the_o main_a end_n which_o though_o it_o do_v not_o simple_o make_v the_o action_n or_o duty_n condemnable_a and_o to_o be_v reject_v especial_o when_o take_v with_o and_o mourn_v for_o and_o christ_n make_v use_v of_o for_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o yet_o it_o will_v considerable_o weaken_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n and_o the_o joy_n result_v from_o it_o in_o so_o far_o as_o these_o sinful_a mixture_n a●e_v 9_o be_v you_o stretch_v yourselves_o to_o the_o yondmost_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o such_o a_o action_n or_o duty_n to_o have_v it_o right_n as_o to_o all_o the_o former_a requisit_n be_v there_o nothing_o leave_v undo_v that_o may_v and_o shall_v have_v be_v do_v be_v you_o not_o only_o aim_v at_o the_o right_a end_n but_o according_a to_o your_o light_n endeavour_v to_o take_v every_o way_n and_o make_v use_n of_o every_o approven_v mean_a for_o the_o compass_n and_o bring_v about_o of_o that_o end_n now_o if_o we_o will_v all_o serious_o reflect_v and_o look_v about_o we_o how_o few_o how_o very_a few_o be_v there_o to_o be_v find_v who_o can_v answer_v these_o question_n affirmative_o in_o any_o acceptable_a measure_n who_o alace_o can_v say_v they_o have_v do_v all_o they_o shall_v or_o even_o may_v have_v do_v as_o to_o matter_n and_o manner_n from_o right_a principle_n and_o motive_n to_o a_o right_a end_n that_o they_o have_v use_v all_o mean_n without_o omit_v any_o that_o they_o have_v give_v all_o dillgence_n that_o they_o have_v make_v use_n of_o christ_n strength_n and_o be_v single_a and_o sincere_a etc._n etc._n in_o their_o performance_n and_o yet_o when_o all_o this_o be_v some_o way_n do_v you_o must_v yet_o answer_v one_o or_o two_o question_n more_o ere_o you_o can_v have_v solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n from_o the_o good_a testimony_n of_o your_o conscience_n 1._o whether_o be_v you_o proud_a and_o conceity_n in_o the_o perform_n of_o such_o and_o such_o duty_n for_o if_o that_o dead_a flee_v come_v in_o on_o the_o do_n of_o the_o best_a duty_n it_o will_v make_v all_o to_o stink_v and_o yet_o ofttimes_o christian_n spoil_v their_o duty_n and_o very_o much_o deprive_v themselves_o of_o the_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n even_o when_o they_o have_v be_v right_a for_o matter_n and_o manner_n by_o their_o be_v vain_a conceity_n and_o proud_a of_o they_o 2_o whether_o have_v you_o washen_v your_o best_a duty_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o if_o this_o be_v want_v it_o will_v great_o mar_v your_o peace_n and_o joy_n now_o i_o will_v again_o ask_v you_o if_o you_o can_v say_v that_o your_o duty_n have_v be_v conform_a to_o these_o requisit_n if_o not_o how_o be_v it_o that_o you_o be_v so_o secure_a and_o can_v allege_v that_o you_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n or_o how_o can_v you_o so_o confident_o expect_v peace_n and_o joy_n from_o ●ts_n testimony_n or_o think_v you_o nothing_o to_o prostitute_v and_o as_o it_o be_v to_o make_v a_o bachel_n of_o this_o excellent_a thing_n the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o if_o you_o can_v take_v it_o up_o in_o a_o manner_n at_o your_o foot_n ah_o be_v there_o nothing_o that_o can_v make_v a_o crack_n in_o or_o a_o breach_n upon_o your_o peace_n of_o conscience_n you_o will_v possible_o say_v that_o you_o have_v all_o sin_v if_o so_o how_o can_v you_o have_v peace_n to_o lie_v down_o in_o sin_n it_o be_v true_a the_o simple_a have_v of_o sin_n when_o it_o suitable_o affect_v shall_v not_o quite_o mar_v and_o bereave_v a_o person_n of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n where_o grace_n be_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o and_o there_o be_v sincerity_n and_o singleness_n in_o endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o case_n affirmative_o in_o some_o measure_n to_o answer_v the_o question_n before_o propose_v but_o the_o utter_a neglect_n of_o these_o thing_n a_o connive_n at_o they_o and_o indifferency_n whether_o the_o requisit_n be_v or_o not_o a_o not_o wrestle_v and_o strive_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n against_o sin_n and_o to_o get_v duty_n suitable_o perform_v in_o the_o same_o strength_n a_o not_o seek_v to_o have_v man_n best_a duty_n washen_v as_o i_o say_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o lamb_n can_v but_o quite_o deprive_v of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o altogether_o obstruct_v the_o peace_n and_o joy_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o a_o believer_n indeed_o not_o allow_v himself_o in_o his_o short-coming_n in_o these_o thing_n call_v for_o and_o make_v frequent_a application_n to_o christ_n for_o strength_n to_o do_v better_o and_o for_o pardon_n of_o 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point_v it_o out_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n but_o there_o be_v i_o say_v some_o particular_a action_n that_o they_o be_v call_v to_o examine_v more_o than_o other_o and_o for_o further_a clear_v of_o this_o i_o shall_v instance_n it_o in_o a_o few_o thing_n as_o 1._o there_o be_v some_o thing_n or_o action_n and_o duty_n that_o more_o eminent_o concern_v a_o believer_n peace_n or_o disquietness_n his_o peace_n if_o right_o go_v about_o and_o his_o disquietness_n if_o otherwise_o some_o thing_n whereby_o god_n be_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n honour_v and_o the_o believer_n himself_o comfort_v if_o he_o carry_v right_o and_o god_n high_o dishonour_v and_o the_o believer_n conscience_n great_o wound_v if_o he_o miscarry_v we_o may_v instance_n it_o in_o these_o solemn_a ordinance_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n of_o time_n of_o humillation_n with_o fast_v of_o public_a or_o secret_a personal_a covenant_v with_o the_o lord_n and_o the_o like_a as_o here_o paul_n reflect_v particular_o on_o his_o ministry_n among_o the_o corinthian_n and_o on_o his_o way_n in_o it_o as_o be_v of_o great_a moment_n and_o say_v that_o it_o be_v more_o abundant_o to_o they_o ward_n thus_o it_o be_v in_o hear_v the_o word_n in_o prayer_n in_o our_o family_n and_o in_o secret_a in_o confer_v to_o edification_n on_o sermon_n after_o we_o have_v hear_v they_o or_o to_o any_o spiritual_a purpose_n in_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n day_n and_o such_o other_o for_o in_o these_o duty_n the_o rule_n bind_v some_o nay_o more_o strict_o god_n be_v in_o they_o in_o a_o more_o especial_a manner_n honour_v or_o dishonour_v and_o there_o be_v ready_a access_n to_o a_o challenge_n if_o the_o person_n be_v wrong_a and_o to_o peace_n and_o comfort_n if_o right_a in_o these_o 2_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o be_v more_o tickle_a and_o difficult_a in_o respect_n either_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o or_o in_o respect_n of_o our_o particular_a inclination_n to_o miscarry_v in_o they_o as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n in_o providence_n have_v be_v cast_v into_o a_o place_n and_o company_n where_o he_o be_v crowd_v with_o snare_n and_o strong_a temptation_n he_o will_v there_o examine_v more_o particular_o that_o nothing_o have_v stick_v to_o he_o that_o may_v be_v ground_n of_o challenge_n against_o he_o so_o in_o public_a employment_n wherein_o man_n be_v expose_v to_o many_o temptation_n and_o snare_n especial_o when_o there_o be_v somewhat_o in_o their_o own_o tempratur●_n inclination_n or_o humour_n that_o dispose_v to_o yield_v comply_v and_o miscarry_v they_o will_v there_o be_v the_o more_o particular_a in_o their_o examination_n thus_o david_n say_v ps._n 18._o that_o be_v have_v not_o wicked_o depart_v from_o god_n that_o he_o be_v upright_o before_o he_o and_o have_v keep_v himself_o from_o his_o iniquity_n there_o be_v some_o sin_n that_o he_o be_v not_o in_o such_o hazard_n of_o as_o he_o be_v of_o other_o and_o as_o he_o hand_n guard_v more_o against_o they_o so_o he_o take_v a_o more_o particular_a view_n of_o these_o sin_n that_o his_o natural_a temper_n incline_v he_o most_o to_o and_o that_o he_o be_v most_o in_o hazard_n of_o which_o we_o will_v take_v notice_n of_o at_o all_o time_n but_o especial_o in_o these_o time_n wherein_o man_n hazard_v on_o many_o thing_n hand_n over_o head_n and_o as_o it_o be_v by_o guess_n so_o when_o a_o man_n know_v that_o his_o humour_n and_o temper_n dispose_v he_o to_o be_v rash_a and_o precipitant_a hasty_a and_o passionate_a when_o he_o have_v be_v in_o company_n with_o other_o when_o he_o may_v have_v have_v more_o than_o ordinary_a occasion_n of_o provocation_n he_o will_v there_o more_o particular_o look_v back_o and_o see_v what_o his_o way_n have_v be_v or_o what_o have_v escape_v he_o in_o such_o company_n 3_o a_o man_n will_v especial_o try_v and_o examine_v himself_o in_o reference_n to_o such_o sin_n as_o he_o have_v be_v former_o give_v to_o and_o against_o which_o he_o have_v particular_o engage_v himself_o and_o as_o the_o more_o solemn_a the●ty_n and_o engagement_n have_v be_v he_o shall_v watch_v the_o more_o against_o they_o so_o also_o examine_v the_o more_o if_o he_o have_v be_v entangle_v i●_n they_o so_o say_v the_o people_n of_o god_n ps._n 44_o 17_o all_o this_o be_v come_v upon_o we_o yet_o have_v we_o not_o forget_v thou_o neither_o 〈◊〉_d we_o deal_v false_o in_o thy_o covenant_n there_o be_v many_o particular_a sailing_n in_o their_o way_n which_o doubtless_o they_o reflect_v on_o but_o especial_o they_o try_v how_o they_o have_v carry_v in_o their_o engagement_n to_o god_n because_o they_o know_v that_o any_o more_o gross_a fall_n in_o these_o will_v have_v much_o influence_n on_o god_n dishonour_n and_o on_o the_o wound_a ●f_n their_o own_o peace_n whatever_o we_o reflect_v on_o in_o our_o way_n we_o will_v not_o neglect_v nor_o omit_v our_o engagement_n to_o god_n but_o will_v narrow_o look_v back_o and_o examine_v how_o these_o have_v be_v observe_v 4_o man_n will_v especial_o try_v and_o examine_v themselves_o in_o these_o thing_n that_o cause_n or_o occasion_n challenge_n to_o they_o if_o there_o be_v a_o particular_a challenge_n for_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v sure_a a_o particular_a call_n narrow_o to_o try_v that_o thing_n whether_o we_o have_v be_v right_a in_o i●_n or_o not_o i_o do_v not_o say_v b●t_v a_o challenge_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o just_a ground_n for_o it_o and_o we_o may_v be_v call_v to_o try_v where_o we_o be_v not_o to_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n where_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o it_o but_o often_o we_o be_v wise_a behind_o the_o hand_n and_o precipitant_n and_o when_o we_o have_v not_o advert_v before_o hand_n to_o prevent_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n the_o challenge_n than_o come_v to_o put_v we_o particular_o to_o examine_v and_o try_v what_o have_v be_v right_a or_o wrong_n in_o our_o carriage_n in_o such_o a_o particular_a 5_o what_o may_v occasion_v or_o probable_o bring_v on_o 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and_o unclear_a but_o also_o as_o to_o these_o that_o be_v most_o clear_a for_o even_o in_o these_o after_o exact_a examination_n we_o may_v find_v out_o ground_n of_o challenge_n for_o what_o be_v wrong_a in_o our_o end_n or_o in_o our_o manner_n of_o do_v and_o distinct_a ground_n of_o peace_n for_o what_o be_v right_a that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a with_o some_o solid_a confidence_n to_o say_v this_o be_v wrong_a and_o i_o have_v reason_n to_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o and_o this_o be_v right_a and_o i_o may_v be_v quiet_v and_o comfort_v in_o it_o 5_o observe_v that_o though_o it_o be_v a_o difficult_a thing_n to_o win_v to_o a_o well_o ground_v refresh_v testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o by_o a_o tender_a believer_n it_o be_v through_o grace_n attainable_a paul_n speak_v of_o it_o here_o not_o only_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o he_o aim_v at_o but_o as_o that_o which_o he_o attain_v the_o experience_n also_o of_o many_o of_o the_o saint_n do_v prove_v that_o it_o have_v be_v win_v at_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o job_n david_n hezekiah_n and_o other_o it_o be_v moreover_o clear_a from_o the_o effect_n that_o have_v follow_v on_o it_o in_o they_o such_o as_o peace_n joy_n and_o rejoice_v all_o which_o clear_o hold_v forth_o so_o much_o that_o a_o believer_n in_o his_o walk_n may_v win_v to_o a_o well_o ground_v and_o heart-chearing_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n for_o he_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a and_o watchful_a in_o his_o way_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o diligent_a in_o self-examination_n and_o sincere_a and_o impartial_a in_o put_v thing_n to_o a_o proof_n whether_o they_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n serve_v for_o instruction_n to_o let_v we_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
pity_n or_o a_o principle_n of_o natural_a courage_n or_o the_o like_a wherein_o however_o beneficial_a and_o acceptable_a these_o thing_n may_v be_v to_o particular_a person_n or_o to_o humane_a society_n yet_o they_o can_v lay_v no_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n 2._o it_o insinuate_v that_o the_o thing_n that_o make_v a_o man_n acceptable_a and_o furnish_v a_o good_a testimony_n to_o his_o conscience_n be_v when_o he_o do_v thing_n from_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n sway_v and_o strengthen_v he_o and_o where_o this_o principle_n be_v not_o conscience_n can_v ●ever_o give_v a_o well_o ground_a testimony_n to_o a_o man_n suppose_v ●e_n shall_v preach_v and_o dispute_v for_o the_o truth_n and_o give_v his_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v for_o it_o therefore_o paul_n say_v that_o it_o be_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o he_o have_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o to_o themward_n a_o four_o false_a ground_n that_o will_v not_o bear_v out_o a_o man_n be_v when_o he_o only_o put_v hand_n to_o some_o thing_n or_o duty_n of_o religion_n without_o design_v and_o endeavour_v in_o the_o whole_a strain_n and_o tract_n of_o his_o way_n to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v pure_a as_o christ_n be_v pure_a and_o without_o allow_v himself_o in_o any_o sin_n or_o in_o the_o neglect_n or_o misperformance_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o unsoundness_n of_o this_o ground_n be_v that_o if_o a_o true_o tender_a conscience_n put_v a_o man_n to_o one_o duty_n it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o all_o duty_n and_o if_o it_o put_v he_o to_o abstain_v from_o one_o sin_n it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o endeavour_v to_o abstain_v from_o all_o sin_n and_o paul_n here_o gather_v not_o his_o testimony_n from_o one_o action_n or_o two_o but_o from_o the_o tract_n of_o his_o conversation_n now_o if_o we_o lie_v by_o ●ll_o these_o seem_n and_o false_a ground_n it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o many_o yea_o most_o person_n have_v but_o a_o empty_a and_o ●oom_n testimony_n and_o a_o very_o ill_o ground_v and_o unwarrantable_a peace_n for_o the_o three_o thing_n we_o propose_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o viz._n the_o ground_n of_o a_o good_a testimony_n we_o have_v they_o from_o the_o text_n here_o in_o five_o or_o six_o step_n suppose_v the_o matter_n to_o be_v right_a as_o all_o along_o we_o have_v do_v the_o first_o be_v singleness_n in_o a_o man_n end_n that_o he_o be_v not_o seek_v himself_o but_o god_n honour_v main_o which_o be_v employ_v in_o that_o word_n simplicity_n a_o single_a end_n conduce_v much_o to_o a_o man_n peace_n it_o be_v a_o sine_fw-la quo_fw-la non_fw-la to_o a_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o first_o step_n to_o it_o here_o the_o second_o be_v godly_a sincerity_n which_o be_v not_o only_o opposite_a to_o more_o gross_a hypocrisy_n dissemble_v and_o counterfeit_v but_o contradistinguish_v also_o from_o mere_o moral_a sincerity_n it_o be_v not_o only_o to_o be_v honest_a before_o man_n and_o to_o say_v so_o before_o the_o conscience_n but_o also_o before_o god_n i_o be_v also_o upright_o before_o he_o and_o in_o his_o eye_n sight_n say_v david_n psal._n 18._o see_v to_o this_o purpose_n luke_n 1_o verse_n 6._o and_o verse_n 75._o and_o what_o the_o same_o apostle_n say_v in_o the_o follow_a chapter_n verse_n last_o but_o as_o of_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n speak_v we_o in_o christ_n this_o godly_a sincerity_n in_o a_o word_n be_v when_o through_o grace_n a_o man_n walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v approven_v and_o commend_v by_o god_n and_o not_o by_o his_o own_o conscience_n only_o let_v be_v by_o man_n by_o who_o to_o be_v judge_v either_o this_o or_o that_o way_n be_v but_o a_o small_a thing_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 1_o cor._n 4_o 3._o sincerity_n put_v a_o man_n to_o aim_v at_o holiness_n and_o a_o conformity_n to_o god_n and_o suffer_v he_o not_o to_o think_v it_o enough_o to_o have_v no_o challenge_n but_o to_o try_v if_o there_o be_v ground_n for_o it_o a_o three_o ground_n which_o be_v negative_a be_v in_o the_o next_o word_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o as_o he_o say_v with_o spiritual_a wisdom_n with_o that_o wisdom_n which_o be_v from_o above_o for_o though_o fleshly_a wisdom_n be_v decry_v yet_o so_o be_v not_o spiritual_a wisdom_n it_o be_v a_o great_a help_n to_o a_o circumspect_a christian_a walk_n as_o we_o show_v from_o these_o word_n eph._n 5._o walk_v circumspect_o not_o as_o fool_n but_o as_o wise_a redeem_v the_o time_n and_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o spiritual_o watchful_a and_o frugal_a catch_a hold_n of_o and_o improve_n every_o opportunity_n of_o do_v good_a and_o of_o appear_v for_o god_n and_o the_o promote_a of_o his_o interest_n within_o we_o and_o without_o we_o as_o he_o call_v we_o to_o it_o wise_o to_o observe_v and_o watchful_o to_o guard_v against_o whatever_o may_v be_v a_o diversion_n to_o we_o from_o our_o main_a work_n and_o to_o strick_v in_o with_o what_o may_v further_o we_o in_o it_o so_o that_o nothing_o may_v wound_v or_o mar_v our_o peace_n thus_o holy_a job_n have_v some_o peace_n from_o this_o i_o be_v not_o say_v he_o in_o safety_n neither_o have_v i_o rest_v neither_o be_v i_o quiet_a yet_o trouble_n come_v it_o be_v some_o ease_n to_o his_o mind_n to_o reflect_v on_o his_o spiritual_o wise_a and_o thrifty_a improve_n of_o his_o time_n when_o his_o great_a trouble_n fall_v on_o he_o that_o he_o be_v not_o secure_a but_o pray_v and_o offer_v sacrifice_n for_o himself_o and_o his_o family_n a_o four_o ground_n be_v the_o act_n and_o exercise_v of_o grace_n by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n that_o be_v i_o have_v more_o than_o a_o natural_a principle_n exercise_v in_o my_o do_v of_o duty_n i_o do_v not_o thing_n in_o my_o own_o strength_n but_o god_n be_v depend_v on_o and_o acknowledge_v and_o his_o help_n seek_v and_o find_v where_o we_o may_v take_v notice_n that_o the_o right_a improve_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o main_a ground_n of_o the_o good_a testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o notable_a help_n to_o attain_v it_o not_o only_o the_o have_v of_o our_o nature_n renew_v but_o our_o have_a grace_n in_o exercise_n to_o be_v pray_v in_o the_o spirit_n praise_v in_o the_o spirit_n hear_v in_o faith_n and_o walk_v up_o and_o down_o in_o his_o name_n not_o lippen_v to_o ourselves_o and_o to_o our_o own_o strength_n but_o to_o he_o and_o to_o the_o strength_n of_o his_o grace_n a_o five_o ground_n be_v that_o when_o all_o this_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n win_v at_o a_o man_n be_v make_v conscience_n of_o examine_v and_o search_v himself_o and_o reflect_v on_o his_o way_n that_o he_o may_v know_v that_o it_o be_v so_o for_o though_o paul_n have_v his_o conversation_n by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o simplicity_n not_o in_o fleshly_a wisdom_n etc._n etc._n yet_o he_o have_v not_o this_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n till_o he_o put_v it_o to_o proof_n and_o find_v it_o to_o be_v so_o indeed_o and_o if_o he_o have_v not_o do_v this_o he_o have_v not_o have_v conscience_n good_a testimony_n a_o 6_o and_o last_o ground_n be_v when_o all_o this_o be_v do_v that_o a_o man_n be_v deny_v to_o it_o and_o lay_v the_o weight_n of_o it_o only_o upon_o and_o give_v the_o commendation_n of_o it_o altogether_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o he_o single_v himself_o out_o and_o exclude_v himself_o from_o have_v any_o praise_n of_o that_o which_o he_o have_v attain_v to_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n here_o attribute_n all_o to_o grace_v as_o he_o do_v in_o like_a manner_n 1._o cor._n 15._o v._n 10._o i_o labour_v say_v ●e_n more_o abundant_o than_o they_o all_o yet_o not_o i_o but_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o be_v with_o i_o and_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n i_o be_o what_o i_o be_o he_o take_v indeed_o a_o large_a testimony_n to_o himself_o for_o the_o corinthians_n their_o edification_n but_o attribute_n all_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n now_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o acknowledge_v god_n grace_n we_o will_v not_o have_v it_o do_v complement_o or_o for_o foster_a of_o pride_n or_o vanity_n because_o of_o its_o be_v dispense_v to_o we_o but_o it_o will_v be_v do_v humble_o and_o sober_o for_o a_o little_a spiritual_a pride_n conceit_n and_o vanity_n in_o reflect_v upon_o what_o man_n have_v or_o do_v this_o way_n will_v be_v as_o a_o dead_a flee_v that_o will_v make_v this_o box_n of_o savoury_a and_o precious_a ointment_n to_o send_v forth_o a_o stink_a smell_n as_o we_o s●e_v in_o the_o proud_a pharisee_fw-mi who_o vain_o and_o vaunt_o say_v i_o thank_v thou_o that_o i_o be_o
not_o like_o this_o publican_n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o necessary_a for_o keep_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n clear_a then_o to_o be_v very_o humble_a under_o it_o and_o much_o deny_v to_o it_o sermon_n i._n 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 it_o be_v indeed_o a_o very_a exercise_v and_o up-taking_a business_n to_o attain_v and_o come_v by_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o it_o have_v a_o most_o sweet_o refresh_v and_o strong_o com●orting_v fruit_n grow_v out_o of_o 〈◊〉_d when_o it_o be_v attain_v and_o who_o ever_o have_v through_o grace_n attain_v it_o have_v never_o find_v reason_n to_o think_v their_o labour_n 〈◊〉_d or_o their_o pain_n ill_o bestow_v or_o too_o great_a the_o calmness_n composure_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o soul_n with_o the_o ho●y_n and_o 〈◊〉_d confidence_n and_o boldness_n to_o god-ward_o with_o the_o 〈◊〉_d and_o joy_v that_o result_n and_o flow_v from_o this_o difficult_a ex●_n super-abundant_o compense_v all_o the_o labour_n and_o pain_n bestow_v on_o it_o that_o we_o may_v be_v stir_v up_o and_o provoke_v vigorous_o to_o endeavour_v in_o the_o strength_n o●_n christ_n the_o have_v and_o maintain_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o somewhat_o of_o the_o peace_n and_o joy_n that_o now_o from_o the_o well_o ground_a assurance_n of_o its_o be_v attain_v we_o have_v make_v choice_a o●_n these_o word_n to_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o they_o wherein_o the_o apostle_n 1._o assert_n his_o attain_n of_o this_o with_o confidence_n and_o boldness_n we_o trust_v say_v he_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 2._o he_o prove_v his_o assertion_n ●y_a give_v a_o evidence_n o●_n the_o truth_n of_o it_o o●_n by_o explicate_v that_o which_o he_o call_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n say_v he_o willing_a to_o live_v honest_o endeavour_v in_o every_o thing_n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o to_o approve_v ourselves_o too_o god_n we_o shall_v in_o the_o first_o place_n speak_v some_o what_o short_o to_o the_o explication_n and_o scope_n of_o the_o word_n there_o be_v three_o expression_n in_o his_o assertion_n concern_v his_o conscience_n which_o hold_v forth_o a_o very_a high_a attainment_n the_o 1._o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n the_o word_n good_a signify_v not_o only_o that_o which_o be_v ●_o profitable_a good_a but_o also_o that_o which_o be_v a_o fair_a pleasant_a and_o delectable_a good_a insinuate_v that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o conscience_n as_o have_v some_o what_o in_o it_o commendable_a beautiful_a and_o amiable_a fit_v to_o make_v other_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o it_o so_o much_o the_o word_n signify_v 2_o tim._n 4._o 7._o and_o matt._n 26._o 10._o the_o 2._o be_v we_o trust_v hold_v out_o the_o confidence_n whereby_o he_o assert_v the_o have_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o be_v not_o such_o trust_n as_o many_o of_o we_o have_v which_o we_o use_v to_o call_v our_o good_a hope_n which_o be_v rather_o a_o conjecture_v or_o guess_v than_o any_o well-grounded_n confidence_n but_o it_o be_v such_o a_o confidence_n and_o persuasion_n as_o be_v found_v on_o good_a and_o solid_a ground_n the_o 3●_n be_v in_o all_o thing_n hold_v forth_o the_o extent_n of_o it_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v in_o our_o private_a walk_n as_o christian_n and_o in_o our_o public_a employment_n as_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o our_o suffering_n for_o truth_n and_o in_o our_o do_v for_o it_o even_o in_o all_o thing_n we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o there_o be_v the_o evidence_n or_o explication_n of_o this_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v because_o it_o may_v be_v think_v strange_a that_o he_o shall_v so_o confident_o as●ert_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o if_o he_o have_v be_v without_o sin_n he_o explain_v his_o meaning_n in_o other_o three_o word_n show_v what_o he_o take_v to_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n the_o 1._o word_n be_v willing_a which_o hold_v out_o his_o kindly_a inclination_n and_o the_o determinatness_n of_o his_o resolution_n anent_o the_o thing_n it_o be_v his_o desire_n design_n and_o delight_n to_o be_v right_a in_o every_o thing_n as_o nehemias_n be_v to_o fear_v god_n name_n and_o though_o he_o come_v so_o far_o short_a as_o that_o the_o evil_n which_o he_o will_v not_o he_o do_v and_o the_o good_a which_o he_o will_v fain_o have_v do_v he_o can_v not_o come_v at_o it_o yet_o he_o delight_v not_o he_o approve_v not_o himself_o in_o the_o evil_a neither_o do_v he_o design_v it_o but_o rather_o have_v it_o for_o his_o burden_n and_o affliction_n as_o he_o give_v we_o a_o account_n rom._n 7._o this_o then_o be_v the_o apostle_n meaning_n in_o that_o high_a assertion_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v his_o desire_n design_n endeavour_n and_o delight_n to_o have_v it_o so_o the_o ●_o d_o word_n be_v to_o live_v which_o in_o the_o original_n be_v to_o converse_v and_o look_n to_o his_o whole_a conversation_n it_o be_v not_o only_o to_o be_v holy_a in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o duty_n as_o in_o pray_v preach_v and_o the_o like_a but_o in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n the_o 3d_o word_n be_v honest_o which_o be_v the_o adverb_n of_o the_o same_o word_n call_v good_a before_o and_o signify_v to_o live_v pleasant_o desireable_o worthy_o or_o honourable_o even_o to_o live_v so_o as_o the_o gospel_n may_v not_o suffer_v by_o any_o thing_n in_o his_o walk_n and_o so_o as_o none_o of_o the_o seeker_n of_o god_n may_v be_v ashamed_a for_o his_o sake_n and_o so_o as_o none_o may_v be_v faint_v dishearten_v or_o discourage_v to_o pray_v for_o he_o as_o for_o the_o scope_n of_o the_o word_n you_o see_v they_o be_v subjoin_v to_o and_o connect_v with_o the_o immediate_o precede_v exhortation_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o and_o be_v give_v as_o the_o reason_n why_o they_o shall_v do_v so_o paul_n be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o his_o penman_n to_o write_v this_o epistle_n he_o do_v as_o its_o ordinary_a for_o he_o in_o other_o of_o his_o epistle_n commend_v himself_o to_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o who_o he_o write_v and_o because_o he_o be_v ill_o speak_v of_o and_o misrepresent_v as_o a_o enemy_n to_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o to_o the_o jewish_a n●tion_n lest_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o shall_v s●ick_v with_o they_o or_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o their_o pray_v for_o he_o he_o obu●ats_v their_o objection_n as_o it_o be_v and_o say_v you_o may_v pray_v for_o we_o for_o however_o we_o be_v mistake_v and_o misreported_n of_o by_o many_o yet_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n willing_a design_v and_o endeavour_v to_o live_v honest_o ●o_o as_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n may_v suffer_v in_o nothing_o by_o we_o but_o that_o rather_o the_o repute_n and_o interest_n thereof_o may_v be_v further_v and_o advance_v and_o by_o this_o he_o bind_v on_o they_o as_o you_o shall_v god_n will_v here_o the_o exhortation_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o we_o intend_v to_o insi_v on_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o verse_n yet_o because_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o scope_n may_v be_v of_o considerable_a use_n we_o shall_v short_o and_o but_o in_o pass_v touch_v on_o some_o observation_n from_o it_o the_o first_o whereof_o which_o be_v 〈◊〉_d be_v that_o a_o man_n that_o endeavour_v sincere_o and_o serious_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n may_v yet_o notwithstanding_o be_v exceed_o mistake_v and_o misrepresent_v in_o the_o world_n paul_n here_o find_v it_o needful_a to_o clear_v himself_o thus_o which_o he_o need_v not_o to_o have_v do_v if_o he_o have_v not_o be_v much_o mistake_v and_o misrepresent_v 2_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n under_o many_o mistake_n misrepresentation_n and_o reproach_n may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n so_o that_o a_o man_n be_v not_o in_o reference_n thereto_o obleidge_v to_o stand_v to_o other_o thought_n and_o judgement_n of_o he_o thus_o it_o be_v a_o small_a thing_n for_o this_o same_o apostle_n to_o be_v judge_v by_o man_n judgement_n as_o he_o tell_v we_o 1_o cor._n 4._o v._n 3._o therefore_o you_o will_v beware_v to_o lay_v weight_n on_o mistake_n mis-representation_n or_o false_a report_n of_o man_n since_o a_o good_a report_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n go_v not_o always_o together_o paul_n go_v through_o good_a report_n and_o ill_a report_n and_o digest_v all_o these_o thing_n so_o that_o his_o peace_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v not_o thereby_o mar_v 3_o observe_v that_o clearness_n as_o to_o a_o good_a conscience_n under_o mistake_n and_o reproach_n be_v a_o great_a and_o notable_a ground_n of_o con●idence_n and_o boldness_n to_o such_o as_o be_v so_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
and_o herein_o lie_v the_o weight_n of_o the_o apostle_n argument_n pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n on_o this_o ground_n he_o plead_v for_o this_o privilege_n of_o the_o communion_n of_o saint_n which_o he_o can_v not_o have_v so_o do_v have_v he_o not_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n 4_o a_o ma●●hat_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n may_v more_o confident_o expect_v the_o benefit_n of_o other_o prayer_n as_o well_o as_o of_o his_o own_o whereas_o a_o man_n who_o way_n and_o conscience_n be_v evil_a though_o other_o prayer_n may_v sometime_o have_v weight_n before_o god_n to_o further_a his_o change_n yet_o he_o himself_o can_v have_v no_o comfort_n in_o they_o while_o he_o be_v such_o therefore_o while_o david_n be_v pray_v for_o his_o enemy_n he_o say_v his_o prayer_n return_v into_o his_o own_o bosom_n but_o it_o do_v they_o little_a or_o no_o good_a thus_o we_o see_v what_o advantage_n it_o be_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n it_o make_v we_o capable_a of_o the_o benefit_n both_o of_o our_o own_o and_o other_o prayer_n and_o the_o want_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n on_o the_o contrary_a excommunica●s_a 〈◊〉_d in_o a_o manner_n from_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o prayer_n of_o other_o the_o second_o question_n be_v if_o this_o argument_n ought_v to_o have_v any_o more_o weight_n with_o christian_n in_o pray_v for_o they_o than_o other_o or_o if_o we_o shall_v pray_v for_o they_o only_o that_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o not_o for_o other_o we_o answer_v 1._o that_o christian_n will_v not_o limit_v their_o duty_n in_o prayer_n only_o to_o these_o for_o we_o see_v moses_n david_n and_o many_o other_o of_o the_o saint_n pray_v for_o such_o as_o have_v no_o good_a conscience_n so_o that_o we_o may_v warrantable_o pray_v for_o other_o though_o not_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v hope_v to_o be_v accept_v therein_o and_o that_o our_o pray_v for_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v without_o fruit_n and_o benefit_n to_o ourselves_o at_o least_o yet_o 2_o there_o lie_v a_o great_a tie_n and_o obligation_n on_o we_o to_o pray_v for_o they_o that_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n then_o for_o other_o even_o as_o there_o do_v to_o do_v good_a especial_o to_o these_o that_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n the_o communion_n of_o saint_n here_o bind_v and_o link_a to_o say_v so_o more_o strait_o and_o strong_o so_o we_o be_v i_o say_v proportionable_o more_o strict_o tie_v to_o pray_v for_o sincere_a seeker_n of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n practice_n gal._n 6._o 16._o show_n where_o he_o pray_v thus_o as_o many_o as_o walk_v according_a to_o this_o rule_n peace_n be_v on_o they_o and_o on_o the_o whole_a israel_n of_o god_n he_o pray_v for_o peace_n to_o they_o as_o be_v the_o most_o proper_a object_n of_o the_o saint_n prayer_n especial_o as_o to_o god_n peace_n not_o have_v such_o ground_n for_o present_v that_o or_o other_o suchlike_a petition_n to_o god_n for_o 〈◊〉_d yea_o 3_o not_o only_o do_v it_o lay_v on_o a_o strong_a obligation_n but_o it_o give_v great_a ground_n of_o encouragement_n and_o confidence_n to_o deal_v with_o god_n on_o their_o behalf_n and_o of_o hope_n and_o expectation_n to_o be_v hear_v peace_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v upon_o they_o that_o 〈◊〉_d according_a to_o this_o rule_n he_o find_v here_o firm_a ground_n to_o stand_v on_o to_o say_v so_o in_o pray_v confident_o and_o with_o hope_n of_o success_n for_o such_o then_o for_o other_o 4_o clearness_n and_o persuasion_n so_o far_o as_o be_v in_o this_o case_n attainable_a that_o another_o be_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n make_v a_o christian_a more_o willing_a to_o pray_v and_o more_o hearty_a in_o prayer_n for_o such_o a_o person_n will_v pray_v with_o the_o better_a will_v to_o speak_v so_o for_o other_o when_o he_o know_v that_o they_o be_v tender_a whereas_o any_o grossness_n in_o a_o professor_n will_v have_v influence_n on_o the_o cool_n of_o his_o prayer_n for_o they_o and_o he_o will_v be_v in_o hazard_n of_o be_v tempt_v at_o least_o some_o way_n to_o lie_v by_o we_o will_v not_o say_v but_o there_o may_v be_v often_o a_o fault_n in_o this_o yet_o there_o be_v still_o a_o truth_n in_o the_o connexion_n betwixt_o suppose_v a_o person_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o our_o bear_a burden_n with_o he_o and_o take_v a_o more_o kind_o lift_v of_o his_o condition_n in_o prayer_n and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o apostle_n make_v use_v of_o this_o ground_n to_o press_v and_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o pray_v for_o he_o and_o to_o show_v that_o he_o expect_v the_o help_n of_o their_o prayer_n and_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o small_a encouragement_n in_o prayer_n to_o make_v mention_n of_o a_o person_n name_v particular_o to_o god_n in_o prayer_n when_o we_o know_v that_o it_o be_v the_o name_n of_o one_o that_o be_v a_o friend_n of_o he_o as_o abraham_n be_v call_v all_o these_o serve_v to_o commend_v the_o great_a advantage_n that_o attend_v the_o have_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o lay_v a_o strong_a obligation_n on_o we_o to_o pursue_v after_o it_o and_o they_o may_v some_o way_n direct_v we_o how_o to_o walk_v so_o as_o we_o may_v attain_v and_o entertain_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o they_o may_v withal_o help_v to_o make_v some_o discovery_n to_o we_o if_o we_o be_v tender_a in_o our_o walk_n but_o we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o apostle_n assertion_n we_o trust_v say_v he_o we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n from_o which_o we_o will_v observe_v a_o few_o thing_n wherein_o we_o shall_v be_v more_o general_a 1._o then_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v a_o very_a great_a difference_n betwixt_o conscience_n some_o conscience_n be_v good_a some_o evil_n some_o be_v clear_a and_o pure_a some_o be_v unclear_a impure_a and_o defile_v as_o the_o apostle_n show_v 2_o tim_n 1._o 3._o when_o he_o say_v i_o thank_v god_n who_o i_o serve_v with_o a_o pure_a conscience_n and_o while_o he_o say_v tit._n 1._o 15._o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o conscience_n be_v defile_v every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n but_o not_o the_o like_a conscience_n so_o that_o i_o say_v there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o conscience_n even_o as_o great_a as_o there_o be_v betwixt_o man_n as_o sin_n have_v bring_v a_o long_a train_n of_o pollution_n and_o defilement_n with_o it_o so_o that_o they_o reach_v the_o whole_a man_n the_o very_a conscience_n itself_o not_o except_v ●o_o special_a grace_n have_v a_o mighty_a powerful_a influence_n where_o it_o come_v and_o reach_v the_o whole_a man_n and_o the_o conscience_n in_o particular_a though_o not_o perfect_o in_o this_o life_n think_v no●_n 〈◊〉_d that_o all_o man_n conscience_n be_v alike_o and_o as_o you_o will_v not_o trust_v every_o man_n word_n so_o shall_v you_o not_o trust_v every_o man_n conscience_n 2_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n attainable_a as_o a_o good_a or_o clear_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n otherways_o if_o it_o be_v simple_o un-attainable_a there_o can_v be_v ●o_o 〈◊〉_d no●_n true_a ground_n for_o paul_n assertion_n here_o this_o good_a conscience_n in_o short_a be_v come_v at_o thus_o 1._o there_o be_v a_o exercise_n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n whereof_o we_o speak_v from_o act_n 24._o v_o 16._o this_o be_v the_o tender_a christian_n design_n which_o he_o drive_v 2_o when_o a_o man_n have_v be_v thus_o exercise_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n he_o be_v in_o the_o nixt_a place_n exercise_v to_o know_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v its_o approbative_a testimony_n and_o this_o we_o speak_v to_o from_o these_o word_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n 3_o there_o be_v a_o clear_a and_o pleasant_a conscience_n which_o flow_v from_o the_o former_a two_o when_o a_o man_n have_v be_v exercise_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o and_o come_v to_o discern_v it_o there_o result_v from_o these_o a_o clear_a calm_a serene_a smile_v and_o pleasant_a conscience_n which_o be_v a_o most_o heartsome_a and_o solacious_a thing_n to_o dwell_v with_o 〈◊〉_d very_o desirable_a delightsome_a refresh_a cheerful_a and_o spiritualy_a jovial_a companion_n the_o ●se_n serve_v to_o show_v you_o that_o you_o shall_v not_o look_v on_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o a_o empty_a or_o airy_a fancy_n or_o notion_n or_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o attainable_a or_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v never_o attain_v by_o any_o you_o
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
raise_v the_o storm_n and_o tempest_n of_o a_o contraversie_n there_o which_o great_o mar_v peace_n 3_o where_o this_o real_a willingness_n be_v in_o exercise_n though_o sin_n prevail_v yet_o as_o i_o often_o than_o once_o say_v it_o put_v the_o christian_n to_o enter_v his_o dissent_n from_o and_o protestation_n against_o it_o which_o in_o some_o respect_n exoner_n he_o even_o as_o in_o a_o humane_a ju●lcatory_a where_o a_o thing_n be_v carry_v by_o the_o speat_v of_o the_o plurality_n of_o voice_n any_o member_n thereof_o that_o protest_v be_v exoner_v by_o that_o his_o protestation_n just_o ●o_o it_o be_v here_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v surprise_v take_v unaware_o and_o hurry_v by_o the_o violence_n of_o temptation_n and_o though_o it_o do_v not_o simple_o and_o altogether_o free_a and_o excuse_v he_o as_o to_o the_o sin_n as_o it_o may_v do_v a_o man_n in_o the_o other_o case_n yet_o it_o keep_v as_o it_o be_v a_o legal_a right_n to_o he_o whereupon_o he_o may_v humble_o plead_v with_o god_n against_o his_o unrenewed_a part_n complain_v of_o it_o and_o come_v to_o he_o and_o say_v it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o and_o therefore_o from_o all_o we_o may_v very_o confident_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v not_o absolute_a perfection_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o conscience_n its_o good_a testimony_n and_o of_o the_o peace_n that_o result_v therefrom_o but_o sincerity_n or_o real_a willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o the_o 1._o use_v of_o the_o doctrine_n serve_v to_o show_v we_o that_o it_o be_v a_o tenet_n contrary_n to_o scripture_n cross_n to_o believer_n consolation_n and_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o hollness_n and_o that_o withal_o make_v way_n for_o lousness_n to_o say_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o in_o sincerity_n and_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o that_o can_v give_v a_o believer_n quietness_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n which_o antinomian_o on_o the_o matter_n at_o least_o to_o scar_n and_o fright_v believer_n not_o from_o peace_n of_o conscience_n but_o from_o the_o study_n of_o holiness_n maintain_v and_o press_v whereby_o they_o labour_v to_o ruin_v and_o raze_v this_o most_o comfortable_a doctrine_n two_o way_n both_o which_o be_v remove_v and_o refute_v by_o these_o forego_v caveat_n which_o we_o give_v 1._o they_o say_v that_o none_o at_o all_o win_v to_o this_o universal_a willingness_n or_o sincerity_n but_o for_o answer_v as_o we_o say_v before_o we_o speak_v not_o of_o universal_a perfect_a willingness_n but_o of_o sincere_a real_a willingness_n there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o universal_a honesty_n up_o at_o perfection_n and_o a_o endeavour_n after_o universality_n of_o honesty_n and_o it_o be_v the_o last_o that_o that_o we_o say_v a_o believer_n may_v have_v and_o have_v when_o in_o case_n in_o its_o more_o lively_a exercise_n 2_o which_o overthrow_v the_o former_a they_o say_v that_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v this_o willingness_n and_o so_o it_o can_v be_v no_o ground_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o believer_n but_o for_o answer_v we_o speak_v not_o of_o what_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v think_v he_o have_v but_o if_o the_o qualification_n of_o this_o willingness_n whereof_o we_o speak_v the_o last_o day_n be_v remember_v and_o well_o consider_v it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o no_o natural_a man_n have_v it_o neither_o can_v have_v it_o while_o he_o be_v such_o we_o speak_v not_o of_o what_o a_o demented_a person_n may_v fancy_v he_o have_v but_o of_o what_o a_o sober_a and_o compose_a christian_n have_v the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o discover_v the_o great_a unsoundness_n and_o strong_a delusion_n that_o be_v in_o the_o conclusion_n that_o hypocrite_n the_o second_o sort_n of_o person_n who_o this_o doctrine_n deal_v with_o be_v dispose_v to_o draw_v from_o it_o who_o be_v ready_a to_o bless_v themselves_o and_o to_o think_v and_o say_v wel's_z we_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o truth_n as_o this_o for_o though_o we_o fail_v and_o come_v short_a in_o many_o thing_n yet_o we_o have_v a_o good_a mind_n and_o meaning_n and_o under_o this_o specious_a and_o plausible-like_a pretext_n they_o shrewd_a and_o as_o it_o be_v hide_v all_o their_o voluntary_a neglect_n and_o ommission_n of_o these_o thing_n which_o they_o be_v call_v to_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o religion_n and_o in_o live_v honest_o in_o order_n to_o win_v at_o this_o solid_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o let_v i_o ask_v such_o have_v you_o the_o qualification_n which_o we_o assign_v of_o this_o willingness_n be_v it_o a_o willingness_n that_o carry_v you_o forth_o towards_o come_v at_o the_o mid_n to_o will_v holiness_n as_o well_o as_o at_o the_o end_n to_o will_v happiness_n and_o that_o carry_v you_o towards_o the_o mid_n viz._n holiness_n for_o itself_o and_o not_o for_o heaven_n or_o happiness_n only_o be_v it_o a_o habitual_a willingness_n and_o not_o by_o fit_n and_o start_v be_v it_o single_a and_o not_o mercenary_a nor_o crooked_a and_o be_v it_o effectual_a and_o not_o sluggish_a though_o god_n will_v gracious_o accept_v of_o willingness_n where_o person_n be_v honest_a and_o sincere_a in_o their_o aim_n and_o endeavour_v notwithstanding_o of_o much_o fail_n and_o short-coming_a yet_o where_o man_n allow_v themselves_o in_o their_o short-coming_n he_o will_v not_o there_o accept_v of_o willingness_n therefore_o that_o word_n opportunity_n be_v ●o_o put_v in_o by_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 6._o 10._o as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n let_v we_o do_v good_a to_o all_o man_n especial_o to_o they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n and_o philip._n 4._o you_o be_v careful_a but_o you_o lack_v opportunity_n if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o opportunity_n god_n will_v accept_v of_o a_o willing_a mind_n as_o he_o do_v from_o the_o thief_n on_o the_o cross_n or_o if_o a_o man_n be_v poor_a and_o have_v not_o to_o give_v out_o towards_o the_o supply_n of_o other_o but_o yet_o if_o he_o have_v and_o yet_o by_o shut_v of_o his_o purse_n he_o shut_v up_o his_o bowel_n from_o his_o poor_a brother_n yea_o if_o a_o man_n through_o his_o own_o culpable_a accesion_n have_v disable_v himself_o from_o that_o charitable_a duty_n if_o it_o be_v not_o sincere_o repent_v of_o for_o he_o shall_v work_v with_o his_o hand_n that_o he_o may_v give_v to_o they_o that_o want_v his_o willingness_n will_v not_o be_v accept_v therefore_o let_v none_o think_v that_o this_o willingness_n lose_v any_o the_o least_o latchet_n or_o buckle_v to_o looseness_n and_o sinful_a liberty_n woe_n be_v to_o they_o that_o resolve_o make_v so_o curse_v a_o use_n of_o such_o comfortable_a doctrine_n &_o that_o suck_v such_o poison_n out_o of_o so_o sweet_a and_o strong_a a_o cordial_a for_o faint_a saint_n under_o the_o deep_a sense_n of_o their_o short-coming_n in_o that_o which_o they_o will_v as_o fain_o be_v at_o as_o ever_o they_o will_v be_v save_v and_o be_v in_o heaven_n god_n will_v not_o certain_o take_v that_o for_o willingness_n nor_o will_v it_o be_v a_o ground_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o conscience_n that_o be_v not_o wait_v with_o design_n and_o endeavour_n through_o grace_n to_o improve_v and_o make_v use_n of_o present_a opportunity_n of_o do_v duty_n and_o with_o some_o measure_n of_o serious_a press_v towards_o the_o mark_n but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v wherein_o consist_v this_o willingness_n or_o what_o be_v employ_v in_o it_o for_o answer_v i_o will_v say_v there_o be_v beside_o what_o be_v hold_v forth_o in_o the_o distinction_n that_o we_o offer_v the_o other_o day_n these_o five_o thing_n in_o it_o 1._o a_o high_a esteem_n an●_n pryze_a of_o all_o the_o step_n of_o holiness_n as_o be_v say_v before_o i_o esteem_v say_v the_o psalmist_n psal._n 119._o v_o 128._o all_o thy_o precept_n concern_v all_o thing_n to_o be_v right_a there_o be_v no_o piece_n of_o holiness_n but_o the_o man_n that_o be_v thus_o willing_a love_v it_o and_o esteem_v it_o be_v it_o to_o give_v all_o his_o good_n to_o the_o poor_a and_o his_o body_n to_o be_v ●urned_v when_o he_o be_v call_v to_o it_o to_o be_v reproach_v deem_v and_o ill_o speak_v of_o for_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n sake_n as_o well_o as_o to_o pray_v hear_v the_o word_n read_v and_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n o●_n do_v any_o thing_n that_o may_v gain_v respect_n to_o he_o from_o man_n and_o that_o not_o only_o from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n that_o be_v on_o his_o spirit_n but_o out_o of_o love_n to_o the_o thing_n he_o will_v not_o wish_v o●e_a command_n to_o be_v change_v or_o alter_v even_o the_o most_o sublime_o spiritual_a and_o most_o difficult_o practicable_a letbe_n dash_v out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o god_n whereas_o th●_n hypo●rire_fw-la ●f_o he_o try_v narrow_o will_v find_v that_o he_o do_v on_o the_o matter_n
at_o least_o wish_v that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o sin_n have_v be_v allow_v not_o forbid_v at_o least_o and_o that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n have_v not_o be_v command_v as_o the_o young_a man_n who_o be_v bid_v sell_v all_o that_o he_o have_v and_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a can_v not_o digest_v that_o command_n but_o declare_v by_o his_o practice_n and_o refuse_v to_o obey_v i●_n that_o he_o think_v it_o not_o to_o be_v right_a and_o that_o he_o esteem_v it_o not_o as_o such_o and_o ●o_o on_o the_o matter_n wish_v there_o have_v ●ever_o be_v such_o a_o command_n 2_o it_o have_v a_o desire_n to_o be_v at_o the_o thing_n they_o man_v heart_n desire_n be_v to_o be_v at_o holiness_n his_o great_a wish_n be_v that_o of_o the_o psalmist_n psal._n 119._o 7._o o_o that_o my_o way_n be_v direct_v to_o 〈◊〉_d thy_o precept_n the_o desire_n of_o his_o soul_n be_v towards_o the_o remembrance_n of_o he_o and_o of_o his_o name_n as_o it_o be_v isai._n 26._o 8._o ●d_a with_o nehemiah_n he_o desire_v to_o fear_v god_n name_n he_o not_o only_o desire_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o heaven_n but_o also_o holi●_n and_o honesty_n in_o his_o walk_n he_o breathe_v after_o that_o as_o after_o heaven_n and_o he_o can_v be_v satisfy_v with_o the_o hope_n o●_n heaven_n some_o few_o year_n hence_o if_o he_o want_v holiness_n for_o the_o time_n that_o want_n make_v his_o very_a heart_n sick_a 3_o it_o have_v a_o exceed_a great_a delight_n in_o holiness_n nothing_o be_v more_o refresh_v to_o he_o thousand_o of_o gold_n and_o silver_n a_o crown_n and_o a_o kingdom_n will_v not_o satisfy_v he_o so_o much_o as_o holiness_n i_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 7._o after_o the_o inner_a man_n the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v sweet_a to_o he_o then_o the_o honey_n and_o the_o honey_n comb_n it_o be_v the_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v of_o his_o heart_n and_o when_o he_o find_v any_o sin_n prevent_v or_o strike_v at_o the_o root_n of_o it_o its_o refresh_n delightsome_a and_o satisfy_v to_o his_o very_a soul_n 4._o it_o have_v a_o press_a endeavour_n after_o the_o use_n of_o all_o mean_n whereby_o he_o may_v win_v to_o that_o pitch_n of_o holiness_n which_o he_o will_v be_v at_o he_o will_v ●ain_o be_v spontaneous_a willing_a of_o his_o own_o accord_n in_o follow_v his_o duty_n as_o its_o sai●_n o●_n jacob_n that_o he_o think_v his_o seven_o year_n service_n for_o rachel_n to_o be_v but_o as_o a_o few_o day_n for_o the_o love_n he_o have_v to_o she_o so_o this_o willingness_n make_v the_o sabbath_n seem_v short_a and_o many_o year_n in_o the_o painful_a service_n of_o god_n when_o it_o go_v with_o he_o to_o seem_v but_o as_o a_o few_o day_n because_o of_o the_o love_n that_o he_o have_v to_o he_o and_o the_o delight_n that_o he_o have_v in_o the_o service_n of_o so_o sweet_a a_o master_n it_o put_v he_o to_o press_v hard_o towards_o the_o mark_n as_o a_o man_n on_o the_o spur_v run_v a_o race_n out_o over_o all_o rub_n in_o his_o way_n he_o pursue_v as_o earnest_o and_o eager_o after_o holiness_n as_o if_o his_o justification_n before_o god_n depend_v on_o it_o 5._o it_o have_v all_o these_o deliberate_o and_o some_o way_n constant_o and_o not_o by_o guess_n as_o it_o be_v and_o by_o fit_n and_o start_v or_o by_o evanish_v little_a flash_n at_o a_o communion_n under_o sickness_n or_o some_o great_a fear_n out_o it_o be_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v a_o deliberate_a and_o continue_a willingness_n as_o to_o the_o series_n and_o strain_n of_o it_o though_o it_o have_v its_o own_o fail_n intermix_v and_o partial_a interruption_n it_o be_v with_o he_o as_o it_o be_v with_o he_o who_o say_v psal._n 119._o ver_n 57_o i_o have_v say_v that_o i_o will_v keep_v thy_o word_n it_o be_v his_o deliberate_a choice_n as_o when_o a_o man_n choose_v such_o a_o thing_n his_o willingness_n to_o it_o be_v the_o result_n of_o his_o deliberation_n and_o choice_n so_o this_o man_n heart_n will_v holiness_n as_o his_o deliberate_o resolve_v and_o determine_v choice_n all_o you_o then_o that_o lie_v any_o claim_n to_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o see_v well_o that_o it_o be_v thus_o qualify_v and_o i_o do_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n solemn_o charge_v such_o of_o you_o who_o heart_n be_v never_o towards_o holiness_n that_o you_o presume_v not_o to_o meddle_v with_o the_o consolation_n that_o wait_v on_o this_o honest_a willingness_n or_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o and_o if_o any_o such_o shall_v offer_v to_o drink_v it_o god_n shall_v make_v you_o with_o pain_n even_o to_o rent_v as_o it_o be_v of_o your_o very_a bowel_n vomit_v it_o up_o again_o and_o your_o confidence_n shall_v be_v utter_o reject_v and_o root_v you_o out_o of_o your_o tabernacle_n the_o 3_o use_v serve_v to_o clear_v ease_n and_o comfort_n these_o that_o design_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v tender_a in_o their_o walk_n the_o three_o sort_n of_o person_n with_o who_o we_o say_v this_o doctrine_n deal_v who_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n alace_o we_o have_v much_o corruption_n and_o many_o fail_n and_o break_n forth_o of_o that_o corruption_n we_o shall_v not_o deny_v but_o take_v forgranted_n what_o you_o say_v yet_o your_o great_a corruption_n and_o many_o sin_n shall_v put_v you_o to_o the_o serious_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o self-loathing_a but_o shall_v not_o where_o this_o willingness_n be_v break_v your_o peace_n because_o conscience_n shall_v pity_v where_o god_n pity_v who_o pity_v his_o honest_o willing_a people_n as_o a_o father_n pity_v his_o child_n but_o such_o will_v further_o object_v ah_o our_o sin_n have_v sad_a aggravation_n we_o know_v we_o be_v wrong_v and_o in_o ill_a case_n and_o yet_o we_o some_o way_n lie_v still_o at_o least_o do_v not_o effectual_o bestir_v ourselves_o to_o win_v out_o of_o it_o for_o answer_n i_o will_v inquire_v do_v you_o allow_v yourselves_o in_o that_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n betwixt_o your_o know_v that_o you_o sin_n and_o your_o sin_v willing_o paul_n see_v 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 yet_o say_v what_o i_o do_v i_o allow_v not_o for_o to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o i_o but_o how_o to_o perform_v that_o which_o be_v good_a i_o know_v not_o i_o shall_v ready_o grant_v that_o there_o will_v be_v much_o honesty_n singleness_n and_o humility_n here_o yet_o god_n allow_v peace_n on_o a_o poor_a captive_a sinner_n who_o know_v the_o thing_n that_o he_o do_v to_o be_v ill_a yet_o approve_v it_o not_o nor_o himself_o in_o it_o but_o such_o will_v yet_o again_o object_n how_o can_v we_o have_v peace_n so_o long_o as_o we_o have_v sin_n in_o we_o for_o answer_v i_o will_v say_v that_o its_o one_o thing_n to_o have_v peace_n with_o corruption_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o have_v peace_n with_o conscience_n corruption_n and_o conscience_n be_v as_o two_o contrary_a party_n a_o man_n may_v be_v in_o league_n with_o the_o one_o party_n when_o he_o be_v pursue_v the_o war_n with_o the_o other_o yea_o except_o a_o man_n have_v war_n with_o corruption_n he_o can_v have_v peace_n with_o his_o conscience_n and_o though_o when_o two_o party_n be_v in_o confederacy_n a_o three_o may_v come_v and_o beat_v the_o one_o of_o the_o two_o off_o the_o field_n yet_o that_o will_v not_o dissolve_v or_o break_v the_o league_n except_o there_o be_v a_o willing_a yield_n towards_o compliance_n with_o the_o contrary_a party_n yea_o fight_v still_o and_o refuse_v to_o yield_v when_o the_o beat_a party_n be_v weak_a be_v the_o great_a evidence_n of_o honesty_n so_o be_v it_o when_o conscience_n and_o we_o be_v in_o league_n together_o though_o corruption_n beat_v we_o if_o we_o yield_v not_o it_o will_v not_o break_v peace_n as_o it_o be_v with_o holy_a joh_n chap._n 31._o who_o will_v do_v nothing_o that_o may_v wrong_v his_o conscience_n and_o though_o corruption_n shall_v sometime_o prevail_v over_o he_o who_o have_v make_v a_o league_n with_o conscience_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o submit_v to_o it_o as_o his_o lord_n and_o lawful_a sovereign_n and_o so_o long_o as_o it_o be_v thus_o it_o will_v not_o break_v the_o peace_n yea_o there_o may_v be_v a_o good_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n under_o such_o a_o sad_a and_o wrestle_a exercise_n and_o though_o we_o will_v not_o have_v every_o traitor_n base_a compliant_a or_o runaway_n to_o meddle_v with_o this_o consolation_n yet_o sincerely-willing_a soul_n that_o be_v do_v their_o outmost_a to_o maintain_v the_o fight_n and_o to_o keep_v the_o field_n and_o yet_o fall_v under_o a_o surprisal_n and_o get_v some_o defeat_n may_v warrantable_o lay_v claim_n to_o it_o though_o
with_o much_o repentance_n and_o self-loathing_a and_o may_v have_v some_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o this_o that_o they_o have_v not_o a_o voluntary_a hand_n in_o their_o own_o defeat_n whereas_o he_o that_o be_v not_o serious_a in_o the_o fight_n can_v have_v no_o such_o ground_n of_o peace_n because_o he_o have_v be_v comply_v with_o or_o connive_v at_o corruption_n or_o not_o serious_o strive_v nor_o protest_v against_o it_o but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o testimony_n that_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o league_n and_o covenant_n that_o be_v betwixt_o the_o man_n and_o his_o conscience_n may_v stand_v and_o he_o may_v have_v and_o aught_o to_o maintain_v his_o peace_n that_o we_o may_v come_v to_o a_o close_a of_o this_o discourse_n and_o text_n take_v some_o character_n of_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o where_o its_o sincere_a and_o 1._o where_o it_o be_v the_o more_o that_o corruption_n get_v victory_n the_o more_o it_o be_v hate_v and_o the_o more_o holy_a discontentment_n follow_v upon_o it_o the_o prevail_a of_o corruption_n stir_v awak_n and_o provock_v the_o christian_n indignation_n the_o more_o against_o it_o he_o be_v angry_a at_o it_o before_o but_o when_o at_o any_o time_n it_o make_v he_o founder_n or_o fall_v before_o it_o his_o anger_n increase_v and_o rise_v to_o a_o holy_a rage_n against_o it_o yea_o when_o he_o be_v wrestle_v with_o his_o own_o corruption_n and_o can_v get_v it_o master_v and_o bring_v down_o as_o he_o will_v he_o be_v the_o more_o set_v against_o it_o and_o in_o his_o complain_n of_o it_o he_o will_v ready_o have_v the_o more_o weighty_a and_o aggravate_v expression_n of_o it_o as_o the_o apostle_n have_v it_o rom._n 7._o when_o he_o cry_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o am●_n ●_z and_o as_o asaph_n have_v psal._n 73._o when_o he_o say_v so_o foolish_a be_v i_o and_o ignorant_a i_o be_v as_o a_o beast_n before_o thou_o which_o be_v a_o real_a proof_n that_o he_o connive_n not_o at_o corruption_n even_o when_o it_o it_o prevail_v over_o he_o he_o have_v not_o only_o a_o hatred_n of_o the_o evil_a but_o even_o then_o when_o it_o prevail_v and_o the_o more_o it_o seem_v to_o prevail_v the_o more_o he_o hate_v it_o 2._o where_o this_o willingness_n be_v there_o be_v much_o prayer_n to_o god_n and_o wrestle_v with_o he_o therein_o to_o attain_v more_o and_o more_o holiness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o psalmist_n who_o say_v to_o god_n psal._n 119._o vers_fw-la 5._o o_o that_o my_o way_n be_v direct_v to_o keep_v thy_o statute_n and_o verse_n 10._o with_o my_o whole_a heart_n have_v i_o seek_v thou_o o_o let_v i_o not_o wander_v from_o thy_o commandment_n and_o verse_n 27._o make_v i_o to_o understand_v the_o way_n of_o thy_o precept_n and_o verse_n 35._o make_v i_o to_o go_v in_o the_o path_n of_o thy_o commandment_n for_o therein_o do_v i_o delight_v etc._n etc._n we_o know_v not_o if_o there_o be_v many_o that_o be_v much_o in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o holiness_n as_o a_o choice_n and_o desirable_a mercy_n and_o that_o be_v strive_v to_o maintain_v and_o keep_v up_o the_o fight_n against_o their_o corruption_n but_o sure_o if_o this_o be_v not_o man_n can_v have_v peace_n on_o this_o ground_n of_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o 3_o where_o this_o willingness_n be_v there_o will_v be_v nothing_o a_o great_a burden_n and_o affliction_n to_o a_o person_n then_o when_o corruption_n prevail_v as_o we_o use_v to_o say_v there_o be_v nothing_o that_o trouble_v a_o man_n more_o than_o not_o to_o get_v his_o will_n or_o to_o have_v his_o will_n thwart_v and_o cross_v even_o so_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o trouble_v the_o sincere_a man_n more_o than_o when_o hypocrisy_n steal_v 〈◊〉_d upon_o he_o and_o his_o corruption_n prevail_v over_o he_o so_o that_o he_o can_v get_v his_o will_n of_o it_o here_o we_o will_v distinguish_v betwixt_o thwart_v of_o the_o mind_n and_o interrupt_v the_o calmness_n of_o the_o conscience_n the_o mind_n may_v be_v thwart_v and_o cross_v by_o the_o prevail_a of_o sin_n when_o there_o be_v still_o ground_n of_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o have_v disquietness_n of_o mind_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o have_v peace_n of_o conscience_n break_v the_o least_o stir_v of_o corruption_n may_v and_o shall_v yea_o very_o ready_o will_v cross_v and_o afflict_v the_o sincere_a christian_n mind_n when_o he_o can_v get_v his_o will_n of_o it_o but_o holiness_n be_v his_o honest_a design_n and_o purpose_n it_o ought_v not_o to_o break_v his_o peace_n though_o i_o grant_v it_o often_o do_v so_o however_o sincere_a willingness_n make_v the_o man_n to_o look_v on_o the_o prevailling_a of_o corruption_n as_o his_o great_a burden_n to_o lament_v heavy_o over_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o to_o cry_v o●_n because_o of_o it_o o_o miserable_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o it_o alace_o i_o can_v get_v my_o will_n of_o it_o nor_o because_o of_o it_o to_o be_v so_o holy_a as_o i_o will_v it_o be_v not_o unworthy_a the_o remark_n that_o all_o the_o outward_a affliction_n and_o persecution_n that_o the_o apostle_n meet_v with_o never_o draw_v such_o a_o expression_n from_o he_o as_o the_o indwel_n and_o stir_v of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n do_v o_o miserable_a man_n tha●_n i_o be_o he_o can_v and_o do_v rejoice_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o other_o tribulation_n which_o plain_o say_v that_o he_o look_v at_o this_o as_o his_o great_a cross_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o thing_n in_o all_o the_o world_n that_o make_v he_o account_v himself_o most_o miserable_a they_o who_o under_o the_o pretext_n of_o willingness_n to_o li●e_z honest_o be_v not_o trouble_v with_o the_o stir_n and_o prevailling_n of_o their_o corruption_n nor_o know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o groan_v under_o they_o as_o their_o burden_n who_o slight_a challenge_n and_o neglect_v repentance_n neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v the_o solid_a peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o 4ly_a a_o man_n that_o be_v serious_o willing_a to_o be_v at_o holiness_n and_o to_o live_v honest_o be_v a_o man_n who_o be_v often_o view_v the_o inward_a sinfulness_n and_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n who_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o it_o and_o who_o loathe_v it_o and_o himself_o because_o of_o it_o he_o can_v to_o say_v so_o tell_v two_o ill_a tale_n of_o himself_o when_o another_o it_o may_v be_v have_v not_o one_o to_o tell_v of_o he_o o_o say_v he_o it_o be_v at_o my_o heart_n that_o ail_v i_o none_o can_v speak_v of_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o paul_n at_o the_o rate_n that_o himself_o do_v though_o he_o have_v less_o of_o it_o dwell_v in_o he_o than_o most_o of_o christian_n live_v have_v o_o but_o a_o man_n that_o be_v serious_o aim_v at_o holiness_n be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o frowardness_n and_o rebellion_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o large_a in_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o deceit_n and_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o it_o he_o will_v be_v far_o from_o come_v to_o god_n as_o the_o pharisee_n do_v in_o the_o ruff_n of_o his_o spiritual_a pride_n with_o lord_n i_o thank_v thou_o i_o be_o not_o as_o other_o man_n nor_o like_o this_o publican_n and_o as_o many_o carnal_a gospeller_n do_v with_o we_o thank_v god_n we_o have_v a_o honest_a mind_n while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o take_v liberty_n to_o sin_n and_o be_v at_o no_o pain_n to_o mortify_v it_o nor_o to_o live_v to_o god_n nay_o but_o his_o complaint_n will_v sad_o be_v ah_o i_o have_v a_o heart_n that_o be_v like_o the_o rage_a sea_n my_o corruption_n lead_v i_o captive_a all_o the_o thought_n and_o imagination_n of_o my_o heart_n natural_o be_v wicked_a and_o ill_a only_o and_o continual_o ill_a and_o yet_o he_o rest_v not_o on_o his_o complaint_n but_o seek_v to_o win_v above_o the_o ground_n of_o they_o the_o reason_n be_v his_o great_a desire_n to_o live_v honest_o make_v what_o be_v contrary_a to_o it_o to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o hate_a weary_v of_o and_o even_o despyte_v he_o like_v his_o corruption_n worst_a and_o abhor_v it_o most_o when_o it_o prevail_v over_o he_o he_o love_v to_o have_v sin_n discover_v but_o he_o hate_v that_o which_o be_v discover_v 5_o the_o sincere_o willing_a man_n make_v no_o great_a account_n of_o his_o own_o honesty_n he_o be_v far_o from_o think_v that_o he_o have_v any_o thing_n to_o boast_v or_o to_o be_v proud_a of_o he_o love_v holiness_n so_o very_o well_o that_o he_o think_v not_o much_o of_o what_o he_o have_v attain_v so_o as_o to_o make_v he_o halt_v and_o sit_v down_o there_o as_o if_o he_o need_v go_v no_o further_o he_o forget_v all_o
how_o a_o defile_a conscience_n may_v be_v purge_v and_o how_o we_o may_v recover_v lose_a calmness_n and_o peace_n than_o it_o be_v to_o know_v how_o a_o good_a conscience_n may_v be_v win_v at_o for_o indeed_o if_o all_o our_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n depend_v on_o our_o own_o holy_a walk_n only_o it_o will_v be_v but_o a_o heartless_a and_o comfortless_a work_n to_o speak_v of_o a_o good_a and_o calm_a conscience_n on_o that_o ground_n but_o this_o be_v the_o great_a the_o very_a great_a advantage_n that_o we_o have_v by_o the_o gospel_n of_o grace_n which_o as_o it_o show_v the_o way_n how_o to_o prevent_v a_o quarrel_n from_o and_o so_o a_o wound_n unto_o the_o conscience_n so_o it_o show_v the_o way_n how_o a_o quarrel_n and_o controversy_n draw_v on_o may_v be_v remove_v and_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o now_o we_o will_v speak_v a_o little_a to_o from_o these_o word_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n scope_n be_v to_o hold_v out_o to_o the_o jew_n the_o weakness_n of_o their_o ceremonial_a worship_n sacrifice_n and_o wash_n and_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o christ_n sacrifice_n to_o do_v their_o business_n and_o to_o bring_v they_o from_o rest_v on_o that_o ceremonial_a worship_n to_o rest_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n alone_o and_o one_o of_o the_o argument_n that_o he_o make_v use_v of_o for_o this_o end_n be_v that_o no_o legal_a or_o ceremonial_a worship_n or_o service_n can_v make_v he_o that_o do_v the_o service_n perfect_a as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n as_o he_o say_v v_o 9_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n can_v give_v a_o man_n peace_n before_o god_n and_o his_o own_o conscience_n but_o that_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v able_a to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o to_o bring_v a_o man_n that_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o peace_n and_o friendship_n with_o god_n after_o he_o have_v sin_v and_o thereby_o defile_v and_o wound_v his_o conscience_n back_o to_o that_o same_o peace_n and_o calmness_n that_o he_o have_v before_o he_o sin_v and_o make_v he_o in_o some_o respect_n as_o quiet_a and_o calm_a as_o i●_n he_o have_v not_o sin_v and_o therefore_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n must_v be_v infi●ly_o preferable_a to_o all_o these_o ceremonial_a sacrifice_n pu●gings_n and_o wash_n which_o probable_o they_o incline_v to_o join_v with_o he_o in_o the_o word_n read_v the_o apostle_n illustra●s_v and_o confirm_v the_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n by_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o law_n obviate_a a_o objection_n which_o be_v this_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o law_n have_v a_o good_a use_n and_o why_o then_o will_v you_o cry_v they_o down_o he_o answer_v they_o have_v a_o use_n as_o they_o respect_v christ_n sacrifice_n that_o be_v in_o due_a time_n to_o be_v actual_o offer_v and_o as_o they_o ●ed_v it_o and_o also_o as_o to_o a_o ceremonial_a cleanse_n or_o holiness_n but_o they_o can_v not_o as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n make_v a_o man_n perfect_a and_o say_v he_o if_o these_o ceremony_n have_v a_o efficacy_n as_o to_o the_o outward_a man_n and_o make_v ceremonial_o and_o external_o clean_a or_o holy_a how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v efficacious_a to_o the_o cleanse_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o inner_a man_n if_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o law_n have_v a_o efficacy_n towards_o the_o admit_v of_o a_o man_n to_o external_a ordinance_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n have_v a_o efficacy_n to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o to_o take_v away_o the_o sting_n and_o guilt_n and_o the_o defilement_n also_o of_o sin_n and_o to_o make_v it_o quiet_a and_o so_o to_o capacitat_fw-la the_o man_n to_o be_v ad●tted_v to_o real_a fellowship_n with_o he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n that_o the_o comparison_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_a he_o use_v ●ere_z a_o threefold_a distinction_n 1._o of_o a_o twofold_a uncleanness_n one_o of_o the_o flesh_n or_o outward_a man_n another_o of_o a_o man_n s●ate_n and_o conscience_n before_o god_n the_o first_o relate_v to_o the_o man_n practice_n and_o make_v he_o that_o be_v ceremonial_o unclean_a to_o be_v thirst_n without_o the_o camp_n and_o to_o continue_v so_o till_o he_o be_v legal_o cleanse_v the_o second_o mar_v the_o man_n peace_n before_o god_n the_o 2d_o distinction_n be_v of_o a_o twofold_a court_n wherein_o this_o uncleanness_n be_v charge_v upon_o the_o man_n the_o one_o be_v a_o court_n wherein_o the_o man_n flesh_n i●_n as_o it_o be_v judge_v and_o that_o be_v by_o man_n according_a to_o his_o external_a procession_n the_o other_o be_v a_o court_n wherein_o his_o spiritual_a 〈◊〉_d be_v judge_v and_o that_o be_v his_o conscience_n in_o the_o first_o court_n if_o the_o moral_a law_n charge_v he_o not_o with_o guilt_n it_o be_v not_o ask_v whether_o his_o conscience_n be_v guilty_a or_o not_o but_o he_o be_v on_o his_o outward_a cleanse_n admit_v to_o church_n privilege_n but_o the_o second_o court_n which_o be_v call_v the_o court_n of_o conscience_n look_v not_o a●_n thing_n as_o they_o appear_v before_o man_n but_o as_o they_o be_v before_o god_n and_o therefore_o will_v challenge_v when_o man_n do_v not_o challenge_v the_o 3d._a distinction_n be_v of_o a_o twofold_a sanctification_n the_o first_o be_v that_o of_o the_o flesh_n speak_v of_o v_o 13._o and_o that_o be_v when_o a_o man_n be_v make_v external_o clean_a or_o holy_a whereby_o he_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o congregagation_n the_o other_o be_v that_o which_o be_v inward_a which_o admit_v not_o only_o to_o external_a church-fellowship_n but_o to_o real_a internal-fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o to_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n now_o for_o quiet_v the_o conscience_n and_o for_o give_v a_o man_n peace_n he_o tell_v they_o that_o though_o these_o external_a ceremony_n admit_v he_o to_o the_o congregation_n yet_o they_o do_v not_o purify_v his_o conscience_n but_o that_o notwithstanding_o of_o all_o these_o the_o quarrel_n be_v not_o take_v away_o before_o god_n and_o so_o they_o can_v not_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o inward_a peace_n nor_o bring_v it_o in_o to_o the_o man_n soul_n and_o conscience_n but_o that_o its_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n which_o only_o do_v that_o and_o therefore_o his_o sacrifice_n be_v more_o excellent_a than_o all_o these_o ceremonial_a sacrifice_n sprinkling_n and_o wash_n for_o it_o admit_v a_o man_n to_o peace_n with_o god_n and_o give_v he_o quietness_n in_o his_o own_o conscience_n to_o leave_v the_o comparison_n then_o we_o have_v in_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o these_o word_n which_o we_o intend_v to_o insist_v on_o a_o notable_a effect_n and_o the_o great_a efficacy_n of_o christ_n blood_n in_o purge_v of_o the_o conscience_n hold_v forth_o in_o these_o particular_n 1._o it_o be_v employ_v that_o the_o state_n of_o a_o man_n conscience_n by_o nature_n be_v this_o viz._n it_o be_v pollute_v and_o defile_v by_o dead_a work_n 2._o that_o the_o great_a mean_a whereby_o the_o conscience_n be_v purge_v and_o make_v clean_o be_v the_o blood_n of_o christ._n 3_o the_o end_n wherefore_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n be_v make_v clean_o be_v that_o they_o they_o may_v serve_v the_o live_a god_n 4._o the_o proof_n and_o demonstration_n of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o blood_n in_o these_o word_n of_o the_o former_a part_n of_o the_o verse_n 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 be_v take_v from_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o priest_n and_o of_o the_o altar_n whereby_o the_o sacrifice_n be_v sanctify_v we_o shall_v in_o pass_v observe_v a_o few_o thing_n that_o may_v make_v way_n ●or_a clear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o for_o that_o which_o we_o chief_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o from_o they_o and_o 1._o observe_v that_o the_o state_n of_o man_n conscience_n by_o nature_n be_v that_o they_o be_v pollute_v by_o dead_a work_n which_o be_v such_o work_n as_o be_v to_o be_v repent_v of_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v of_o they_o heb._n 6._o 1._o whereby_o he_o plain_o insinuat_v that_o sin_n be_v call_v dea●_n work_n for_o three_o reason_n 1._o because_o of_o a_o dead_a principle_n they_o proceed_v from_o they_o flow_v from_o man_n that_o be_v dead_a by_o nature_n as_o to_o any_o spiritual_a life_n dead_a in_o sin_n and_o trespuss_n and_o even_o the_o sin_n of_o believer_n themselves_o be_v such_o as_o proceed_v from_o they_o in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v not_o quicken_v and_o renew_v 2_o because_o of_o their_o demerit_n and_o that_o which_o they_o deserve_v which_o be_v eternal_a death_n final_a continuance_n wherein_o do_v at_o last_o most_o certain_o bring_v on_o eternal_a death_n 3_o because_o though_o a_o
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
willing_a afterward_o more_o large_o to_o insist_v in_o not_o only_o the_o necessity_n of_o come_v to_o christ_n but_o of_o know_v certain_o that_o you_o be_v get_v out_o of_o black_a nature_n into_o he_o and_o have_v get_v your_o conscience_n purge_v by_o his_o blood_n think_v you_o it_o a_o small_a or_o little_o concern_v matter_n to_o be_v lie_v in_o a_o ●est_n house_n where_o thousand_o die_v at_o your_o right_n and_o left_a hand_n and_o not_o to_o know_v if_o you_o be_v cleanse_v to_o have_v the_o plague_n in_o your_o bosom_n and_o not_o to_o know_v whether_o you_o be_v cure_v of_o it_o or_o o●_n not_o and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o all_o of_o you_o while_o you_o be_v in_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o if_o you_o will_v as_o you_o be_v mighty_o concern_v have_v some_o evidence_n whereby_o you_o may_v be_v help_v to_o know_v if_o you_o be_v as_o yet_o purge_v from_o this_o total_a pollution_n there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v gather_v from_o this_o verse_n to_o that_o purpose_n and_o 1._o do_v you_o ever_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v your_o conscience_n to_o be_v defile_v it_o can_v hardly_o be_v ex-expected_n that_o a_o man_n have_v such_o a_o botch_n and_o plague_n run_v on_o he_o can_v think_v serious_o of_o let_v be_v serious_o seek_v after_o wash_v before_o he_o know_v that_o he_o be_v thus_o defile_v and_o thereby_o in_o such_o a_o deplorable_a state_n i_o speak_v not_o now_o of_o what_o gracious_a change_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o some_o person_n more_o early_o and_o in_o their_o young_a year_n nor_o how_o secret_o and_o little_o discernible_o the_o work_n of_o conversion_n may_v be_v wrought_v in_o some_o that_o be_v come_v to_o age_n but_o i_o speak_v of_o god_n more_o ordinary_a way_n of_o deal_v and_o reclaim_v and_o convert_v of_o sinner_n when_o paul_n speak_v of_o himself_o rom._n 7._o he_o tell_v we_o that_o he_o be_v alive_a once_o without_o the_o law_n he_o be_v a_o clean_a man_n as_o he_o think_v and_o in_o his_o own_o eye_n before_o the_o lord_n discover_v sin_n and_o waken_v a_o challenge_n for_o it_o in_o his_o conscience_n but_o when_o the_o commandment_n come_v say_v he_o sin_v revive_v and_o i_o die_v now_o can_v we_o think_v with_o any_o shadow_n of_o reason_n that_o after_o god_n call_v he_o effectual_o by_o his_o grace_n that_o he_o have_v more_o of_o a_o 〈◊〉_d nature_n in_o he_o than_o he_o have_v before_o sure_o no_o but_o the_o body_n of_o death_n the_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n be_v now_o clear_o discover_v to_o he_o and_o become_v loathsome_a challenge_n come_v to_o be_v quick_a and_o sharp_o pierce_v and_o his_o conscience_n begin_v to_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o lively_a sense_n of_o its_o own_o defilement_n he_o be_v before_o alive_a or_o rather_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o be_v so_o but_o now_o he_o become_v a_o dead_a man_n in_o his_o own_o esteem_n as_o he_o be_v most_o real_o before_o the_o gracious_a change_n be_v wrought_v and_o sin_n to_o his_o sense_n revive_v and_o he_o as_o to_o any_o account_n of_o his_o own_o righteousness_n 〈◊〉_d o_o si●s_n do_v you_o understand_v this_o doctrine_n we_o be_v afraid_a that_o many_o of_o you_o do_v not_o understand_v it_o at_o least_o in_o your_o own_o experience_n and_o for_o as_o abominable_a as_o corrupt_v nature_n and_o sin_n be_v that_o yet_o you_o be_v sleep_v secure_o in_o it_o and_o be_v often_o return_v with_o the_o dog_n to_o lick_v up_o that_o ●ile_a u●mit_n it_o be_v a_o very_a shrewd_a and_o evil_a token_n of_o a_o defile_a and_o unclean_a conscience_n where_o there_o be_v never_o any_o challenge_n for_o nor_o any_o the_o lest_o kindly_a sense_n of_o its_o defilement_n and_o pollution_n 2._o be_v the_o conscience_n ever_o wa●hen_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o alwise_o till_o that_o be_v it_o be_v defile_v and_o pollute_v do_v you_o ever_o find_v your_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d pollute_v that_o you_o can_v not_o get_v live_v with_o it_o 〈◊〉_d you_o be_v make_v to_o run_v to_o the_o fountain_n open_v up_o in_o the_o house_n of_o david_n for_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n speak_v of_o z●ch_n 13._o 1._o ●_o suppose_v several_a of_o you_o have_v have_v now_o and_o then_o your_o own_o challenge_n for_o sin_n but_o what_o course_n 〈◊〉_d you_o to_o 〈◊〉_d do_v you_o strive_v to_o close_v and_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o your_o conscience_n by_o betake_v yourselves_o to_o pass_v ●ime_n and_o to_o good_a company_n as_o you_o use_v to_o call_v it_o look_v on_o such_o exercise_n as_o too_o many_o do_v as_o a_o fit_a of_o melancholy_a or_o do_v 〈◊〉_d go_v ●ther_o to_o betake_v yourselves_o for_o silence_v your_o conscience_n to_o prayer_n and_o reading_n good_a in_o themselves_o only_o without_o go_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n that_o will_v not_o ●e_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o clean_a and_o purge_v conscience_n but_o there_o must_v be_v a_o bring_n of_o i●_n to_o the_o fountain_n to_o jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v cleanse_v and_o calm_v thus_o it_o be_v with_o paul_n rom._n 7._o who_o when_o he_o see_v his_o pollution_n even_o in_o but_o a_o small_a remander_n of_o it_o and_o be_v challenge_v for_o it_o rom._n 7._o c●yes_n o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o be_o ●_o who_o shall_v delve_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n and_o subjoin_v i_o thank_v god_n 〈◊〉_d jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n he_o can_v quiet_v himself_o no_o where_o 〈◊〉_d nothing_o but_o in_o christ_n it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n when_o person_n can_v admit_v the_o thought_n of_o no_o other_o way_n of_o cleanse_v and_o ●ing_v their_o conscience_n but_o by_o bring_v they_o to_o christ_n and_o his_o blood_n especial_o when_o the_o sense_n of_o 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o ●aith_n of_o the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o blood_n have_v bring_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d bring_v they_o to_o he_o as_o the_o fountain_n 3._o we_o will_v ask_v you_o if_o the_o effect_n of_o a_o clean_a conscience_n have_v follow_v your_o betake_v of_o yourselves_o to_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v a_o clean_a life_n and_o honest_a walk_n and_o conversation_n for_o a_o purge_a conscience_n will_v have_v a_o purge_v and_o honest_a walk_n follow_v on_o it_o and_o if_o man_n have_v once_o get_v a_o cleanse_a and_o purge_v conscience_n they_o will_v be_v very_o cheery_a of_o it_o and_o loath_a to_o pollute_v it_o again_o and_o their_o great_a work_n will_v be_v to_o live_v so_o as_o they_o may_v not_o pollute_v it_o but_o ●h_a how_o few_o how_o lamentable_o few_o have_v attain_v to_o this_o effect_n there_o be_v many_o purge_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v like_o the_o sweep_n and_o garnishing_n of_o that_o house_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o gospel_n that_o make_v it_o ready_a for_o the_o devil_n to_o re-enter_v into_o with_o seven_o spirit_n worse_o than_o himself_o many_o after_o light_n and_o transient_a touch_n of_o challenge_n become_v more_o harden_v and_o presumptuous_a more_o secure_a and_o carnal_a than_o they_o be_v before_o and_o their_o conscience_n digest_v as_o it_o be_v great_a sin_n better_a and_o more_o easy_o than_o it_o have_v wont_a to_o do_v and_o it_o fare_v with_o they_o according_a to_o that_o proverb_n 2_o pet._n 2._o ●lt_n often_o cite_v the_o dog_n be_v return_v to_o his_o vomit_n and_o the_o sow_n that_o be_v wash_v to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n their_o corrupt_a and_o filthy_a nature_n be_v still_o to_o the_o ●ore_o they_o fall_v a_o lick_n up_o that_o which_o former_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v vomit_v out_o and_o return_v to_o their_o former_a louse_n carriage_n 4._o what_o discord_n and_o war_n be_v there_o with_o any_o remainder_n 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v yet_o come_v to_o a_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n and_o pollution_n that_o be_v behind_o what_o resent_v and_o loathe_v be_v there_o of_o it_o if_o the_o conscience_n be_v purge_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v keep_v pure_a new_a defilement_n will_v be_v very_o unwelcome_a guest_n and_o exceed_o troublesome_a to_o your_o peace_n the_o bond_n woman_n son_n to_o say_v so_o must_v not_o abide_v with_o the_o free-woman_n in_o the_o house_n but_o must_v be_v cast_v out_o and_o will_v be_v endeavour_v to_o be_v cast_v out_o while_o a_o man_n be_v in_o black_a nature_n sin_n be_v at_o home_n and_o any_o motion_n to_o sin_n be_v entertain_v and_o even_o in_o a_o manner_n invite_v and_o woo_v but_o when_o a_o man_n come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o his_o sta●e_v and_o grace_n get_v the_o dominion_n his_o great_a care_n and_o work_n be_v to_o get_v the_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n cast_v out_o and_o if_o any_o thing_n of_o it_o come_v back_o or_o stay_v still_o within_o that_o he_o can_v get_v cast_v out_o he_o loathe_v it_o and_o can_v bear_v with_o it_o nor_o dwell_v satisfy_o in_o the_o
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
we_o will_v have_v the_o ●aith_n of_o this_o great_a truth_n well_o fix_v and_o rivet_v that_o every_o man_n conscience_n whether_o awake_v or_o not_o be_v still_o de●iled_v and_o pollute_v till_o it_o be_v cleanse_v and_o purge_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o bodily_a or_o outward_a exercise_n profit_v not_o as_o to_o this_o so_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o conscience_n will_v not_o be_v stop_v till_o it_o get_v of_o this_o blood_n so_o that_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v who_o will_v lay_v ●ny_a thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o ●ods_n elect_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8._o the_o conscience_n will_v answer_v i_o have_v many_o thing_n to_o lay_v to_o their_o charge_n till_o that_o sweet_a word_n that_o be_v subjoin_v be_v speak_v to_o it_o for_o stop_v its_o mouth_n it_o be_v christ_n who_o die_v shed_v his_o blood_n or_o rather_o be_v rise_v again_o then_o and_o never_o till_o then_o will_v it_o be_v quiet_a in_o further_a prosecution_n of_o the_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n we_o will_v have_v you_o to_o know_v that_o there_o be_v four_o way_n that_o man_n be_v ready_a to_o take_v for_o cleanse_v and_o purge_v of_o the_o conscience_n some_o one_o and_o some_o another_o of_o they_o which_o be_v all_o if_o there_o be_v no_o more_o ineffectual_a for_o reach_v the_o real_a purge_n and_o solid_a satisfaction_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o you_o will_v therefore_o be_v aware_a of_o as_o 1._o some_o endeavour_n to_o divert_v their_o conscience_n and_o to_o seek_v a_o suspension_n of_o its_o pur●ing_n the_o quarrel_n against_o they_o pretend_v some_o other_o uptake_v business_n as_o felix_n do_v act_v 24._o who_o find_v himself_o beginning_n to_o tremble_v at_o the_o apostle_n search_v and_o powerful_a discourse_n and_o unable_a to_o stand_v before_o his_o own_o awaken_v conscience_n he_o seek_v as_o it_o be_v a_o suspension_n from_o it_o for_o a_o time_n say_v to_o the_o apostle_n and_o to_o 〈◊〉_d conscience_n on_o the_o matter_n go_v thy_o way_n for_o this_o time_n and_o i_o will_v call_v for_o thou_o when_o i_o have_v a_o convenient_a season_n hence_o when_o some_o person_n be_v in_o heaviness_n or_o in_o some_o ●it_n of_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n they_o will_v 〈◊〉_d to_o some_o 〈◊〉_d and_o ●cund_a friend_n or_o to_o some_o game_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d ●way_n o●_n possible_o to_o a_o four_o hour_n to_o drink_v it_o down_o and_o the_o devil_n be_v as_o busy_a to_o 〈◊〉_d on_o the_o divertion●_n if_o there_o be_v such_o a_o friend_n to_o make_v a_o visit_n he_o help_v they_o to_o 〈◊〉_d it_o over_o and_o to_o b●nish_v that_o melancholious_a 〈◊〉_d and_o so_o to_o bring_v the_o person_n to_o bear_v down_o this_o trouble_n of_o his_o conscience_n as_o a_o silly_a despicable_a fancy_n and_o as_o if_o it_o be_v for_o their_o good_a to_o do_v so_o i_o beseech_v you_o beware_v of_o bind_v up_o your_o conscience_n thus_o else_o it_o may_v grow_v worse_o on_o your_o hand_n it_o be_v even_o as_o 〈◊〉_d a_o man_n that_o have_v a_o sore_a and_o aik_a hand_n shall_v cut_v it_o off_o or_o as_o if_o a_o part_n of_o his_o flesh_n be_v pain_v and_o he_o shall_v clap_v a_o hot_a burn_a iron_n on_o it_o and_o yet_o this_o be_v a_o way_n that_o be_v very_o frequent_o take_v by_o man_n who_o can_v endure_v to_o converse_v with_o their_o disquiet_v conscience_n and_o therefore_o they_o labour_v to_o quash_n and_o quench_v any_o begin_v exercise_n in_o it_o whether_o under_o sickness_n or_o any_o other_o cross_a dispensation_n or_o at_o a_o preach_a or_o communion_n it_o may_v be_v that_o many_o of_o you_o have_v have_v some_o such_o thing_n and_o it_o have_v be_v drive_v or_o it_o have_v wear_v away_o and_o you_o can_v tell_v how_o 2_o another_o way_n be_v also_o too_o ryff_fw-mi and_o ordinary_a and_o that_o be_v by_o seek_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o conscience_n by_o some_o other_o thing_n then_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n hence_o some_o under_o terrible_a conviction_n will_v promise_v and_o vow_n i●_n they_o drink_v excessive_o before_o that_o they_o will_v do_v so_o no_o more_o that_o they_o will_v not_o go_v to_o such_o a_o tavern_n nor_o to_o such_o a_o company_n for_o this_o and_o that_o long_a time_n some_o will_n it_o may_v be_v after_o the_o commit_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o gros●_n sin_n vow_v no●_n to_o ea●_n flesh_n on_o such_o a_o day_n of_o the_o week_n throughout_o their_o whole_a life_n they_o will_v it_o may_v be_v vow_v to_o be_v more_o religious_a but_o so_o soon_o as_o the_o conviction_n or_o trouble_n be_v over_o they_o remain_v still_o the_o same_o and_o their_o conscience_n let_v they_o alone_o they_o take_v their_o own_o sinful_a latitud_n and_o be_v find_v to_o have_v be_v all_o along_o and_o still_o the_o same_o old_a carnal_a man_n because_o they_o aim_v nor_o single_o at_o peace_n with_o god_n through_o christ_n blood_n but_o for_o the_o ●ime_n to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o conscience_n 3_o some_o se●k_n to_o compense_v the_o conscience_n or_o to_o compense_v sin_n to_o the_o conscience_n and_o not_o to_o purge_v it_o they_o will_v it_o may_v be_v take_v some_o penance_n on_o themselves_o and_o this_o be_v it_o that_o lead_v not_o only_a papist_n to_o their_o pennance_n whip_n pilgrimage_n etc._n etc._n but_o many_o ignorant_a protestant_n to_o make_v peace_n with_o their_o conscience_n by_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n they_o will_v pray_v and_o seek_v after_o tear_n in_o prayer_n they_o will_v invite_v in_o a_o manner_n themselves_o to_o mourn_v they_o will_v give_v some_o thing_n by_o ordinary_a to_o the_o poor_a and_o set_v themselves_o to_o amend_v some_o thing_n for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v and_o yet_o the_o defilement_n and_o pollution_n of_o conscience_n ●yes_v on_o still_o unremoved_a because_o they_o never_o be-took_a themselves_o to_o the_o right_a fountain_n to_o wash_v at_o to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v purge_v hence_o the_o jew_n ordinary_o betake_v themselves_o to_o their_o sacrifice_n and_o legal_a wa●hings_n and_o purifying_n when_o they_o sin_v if_o they_o bring_v a_o bullock_n calf_n lamb_n or_o a_o goat_n they_o think_v they_o have_v do_v enough_o and_o therein_o have_v a_o sort_n of_o peace_n s●ch_o as_o i●_n be_v but_o say_v the_o apostle_n it_o be_v not_o that_o which_o make_v they_o 〈◊〉_d as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n none_o of_o these_o nor_o all_o of_o these_o can_v purge_v or_o true_o pac●sy_v it_o because_o they_o can_v not_o take_v away_o the_o quarrel_n betwixt_o god_n and_o they_o and_o thus_o many_o professor_n of_o the_o gospel_n betake_v teemselve_n to_o external_a ordinance_n or_o outward_a performance_n of_o duty_n and_o rest_v on_o these_o i_o do_v not_o condemn_v nor_o dissuade_v from_o these_o duty_n which_o be_v good_a in_o themselves_o because_o command_v by_o god_n but_o your_o rest_v on_o they_o and_o will_v have_v you_o to_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o sound_v your_o peace_n on_o they_o and_o the_o sound_n of_o it_o on_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n apply_v to_o the_o conscience_n by_o faith_n o_o seek_v not_o thus_o to_o bribe_v the_o conscience_n for_o as_o it_o will_v not_o be_v boast_v so_o neither_o will_v it_o be_v bribe_v 4_o there_o be_v another_o way_n that_o be_v right_o make_v use_n of_o have_v its_o own_o commendableness_n in_o it_o which_o be_v when_o person_n be_v under_o some_o trouble_n or_o disquiet_v of_o conscience_n they_o betake_v themselves_o to_o conference_n it_o may_v be_v with_o some_o exercise_v christian_n hold_v ou●_n their_o case_n to_o they_o for_o some_o ease_n and_o quietness_n which_o as_o i_o say_v be_v good_a and_o commendable_a in_o itself_o and_o may_v through_o god_n blessing_n do_v good_a if_o the_o end_n be_v to_o be_v help_v thereby_o to_o go_v to_o the_o fountain_n of_o christ_n blood_n and_o wash_v there_o but_o it_o be_v our_o fault_n when_o in_o the_o use_n of_o this_o mean_a of_o conference_n we_o seek_v to_o have_v our_o conscience_n quiet_v by_o argument_n while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o by_o faith_n have_v recourse_n to_o for_o cleanse_v and_o calm_v of_o it_o i_o suppose_v the_o able_a of_o man_n whether_o private_a christian_n or_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v speak_v to_o we_o never_o so_o convince_o and_o comfortable_o and_o be_v hold_v out_o evidence_n to_o we_o sound_v in_o themselves_o of_o a_o good_a stare_n if_o as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v there_o be_v not_o believe_v application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o take_v away_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o quarrel_n betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n nor_o evidence_n whatsoever_o that_o will_v or_o can_v give_v a_o well_o ground_a peace_n to_o the_o conscience_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 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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
from_o the_o challenge_n of_o the_o law_n and_o from_o the_o terror_n of_o justice_n and_o of_o the_o conscience_n even_o ●rom_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 outward_a mean_n and_o mistake_v law_n christ_n be_v miskend_v and_o pass_v by_o can_v give_v freedom_n but_o by_o christ_n jesus_n you_o may_v have_v freedom_n a_fw-it 3d._n ground_n of_o confirmation_n be_v take_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o blood_n from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o person_n who_o step_v in_o and_o 〈◊〉_d his_o blood_n for_o a_o ransom_n which_o be_v apply_v the_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v quiet_a and_o shall_v not_o to_o speak_v so_o have_v a_o face_n to_o lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o believer_n charge_v and_o this_o be_v press_v in_o these_o two_o scripture_n on_o these_o ground_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o 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v._n 12._o and_o 14._o whereby_o he_o have_v for_o ever_o perfect_v they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v and_o say_v he_o such_o a_o high-priest_n become_v we_o who_o be_v holy_a harmless_a undefiled_a separate_a from_o sinner_n and_o make_v high_a than_o the_o heaven_n 3_o there_o be_v the_o excellency_n of_o the_o altar_n on_o which_o the_o sacrifice_n be_v offer_v up_o and_o the_o altar_n be_v as_o the_o lord_n say_v that_o which_o sanctify_v the_o sacrifice_n this_o be_v the_o godhead_n of_o our_o blessed_a lord_n jesus_n he_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v up_o himself_o though_o as_o man_n he_o have_v a_o beginning_n yet_o as_o god_n he_o have_v no_o beginning_n and_o through_o the_o godhead_n he_o offer_v up_o his_o humane_a nature_n which_o have_v its_o worth_n and_o efficacy_n from_o the_o divine_a nature_n to_o which_o it_o be_v unite_v in_o his_o bless_a person_n in_o these_o three_o the_o worth_n value_n and_o transcendent_a excellency_n of_o this_o sacrifice_n be_v hold_v out_o the_o sacrifice_n itself_o be_v christ_n as_o man_n offer_v up_o both_o in_o his_o body_n and_o soul_n the_o altar_n on_o which_o it_o be_v offer_v which_o make_v the_o sacrifice_n savour_v so_o very_o sweet_o to_o god_n to_o be_v of_o such_o value_n and_o worth_n and_o to_o be_v so_o high_o acceptable_a be_v the_o eternal_a spirit_n the_o god_n head_n of_o the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o glorious_a dreadful_a and_o adorable_a trinity_n therefore_o act_v 20._o 28._o god_n be_v say_v to_o purchase_v or_o redeem_v the_o church_n with_o his_o own_o blood_n not_o with_o silver_n or_o gold_n or_o any_o corruptible_a thing_n as_o peter_n say_v and_o the_o priest_n be_v christ_n god_n and_o man_n in_o one_o person_n he_o be_v the_o sacrifice_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o humane_a nature_n the_o altar_n ●n_a respect_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n give_v value_n and_o virtue_n to_o the_o humane_a nature_n for_o though_o his_o humane_a nature_n be_v in_o itself_o unspotted_a yet_o be_v as_o such_o a_o finit_a creature_n the_o divine_a nature_n to_o which_o it_o be_v unite_v in_o his_o person_n do_v add_v thereto_o such_o a_o value_n as_o make_v it_o in_o this_o respect_n to_o be_v of_o infinite_a worth_n and_o value_n and_o he_o be_v the_o priest_n in_o respect_n of_o both_o nature_n as_o god_n man_n and_o mediator_n for_o sinner_n now_o these_o three_o be_v put_v together_o what_o imaginable_o can_v be_v more_o desire_v for_o quiet_v the_o conscience_n then_o may_v be_v have_v and_o be_v here_o especial_o i●_n we_o add_v the_o nature_n of_o christ_n office_n and_o his_o continuance_n in_o they_o have_v such_o a_o high_a priest_n over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n a_o priest_n live_v for_o ever_o to_o make_v intercession_n for_o all_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o full_a assurance_n of_o say_v for_o he_o who_o clothe_v himself_o with_o the_o vail_n of_o our_o flesh_n have_v ●orn_v the_o vail_n and_o take_v down_o the_o pertition_n wall_n that_o be_v betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o and_o by_o his_o suffering_n have_v make_v a_o new_a and_o live_a way_n to_o we_o through_o it_o into_o the_o holy_a of_o holies_n and_o from_o this_o that_o sweet_a word_n follow_v which_o we_o have_v 1_o john_n 2._o 1._o if_o any_o man_n ●in_v we_o have_v a_o advocate_n with_o the_o father_n jesus_n christ_n the_o righteous_a a_o high-priest_n that_o have_v offer_v himself_o in_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o satisfy_v divine_a ●ustice_n and_o a_o high_a priest_n that_o live_v for_o ever_o to_o intercede_v for_o the_o application_n thereof_o hence_o also_o most_o comfortable_o follow_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a these_o that_o come_v to_o god_n through_o he_o able_a to_o save_v they_o from_o sin_n from_o wrath_n due_a for_o ●in_a from_o challenge_n for_o ●in_a from_o unbelief_n and_o disquietness_n of_o conscience_n and_o to_o give_v solid_a and_o perfect_a peace_n the_o four_o and_o last_o ground_n of_o confirmation_n which_o we_o shall_v name_v be_v draw_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n in_o the_o reality_n legality_n efficacy_n and_o extent_n thereof_o in_o reference_n to_o sinner_n if_o there_o be_v such_o a_o covenant_n and_o paction_n betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o mediator_n transact_v to_o speak_v so_o ●n_v the_o eternal_a counsel_n of_o the_o godhead_n wherein_o it_o be_v agree_v that_o christ_n shall_v come_v into_o the_o world_n and_o take_v on_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o elect_n who_o shall_v all_o in_o time_n in_o due_a time_n flee_v unto_o he_o for_o refuge_n and_o that_o they_o upon_o their_o flee_v to_o he_o shall_v have_v their_o sin_n pardon_v and_o that_o his_o satisfaction_n shall_v be_v accept_v for_o they_o as_o real_o as_o if_o
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 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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 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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 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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
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 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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
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
get_v no_o rest_n until_o the_o ●ll_a turn_n be_v do_v under_o pretext_n of_o keep_v his_o oath_n herod_n be_v predominant_o sway_v by_o these_o who_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o and_o will_v have_v it_o think_v that_o he_o be_v to_o be_v excuse_v because_o otherways_o he_o can_v not_o forsooth_o keep_v his_o oath_n who_o yet_o have_v break_v many_o a_o oath_n and_o make_v no_o bone_n of_o they_o for_o the_o second_o question_n how_o may_v the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v know_v and_o discern_v from_o the_o impulse_n of_o credit_n interest_n inclination_n will_n and_o affection_n answer_v by_o the_o word_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n isa._n 8._o 20_o conscience_n be_v subject_a to_o that_o and_o conscience_n never_o ready_o pouse_v against_o duty_n hold_v out_o by_o the_o word_n conscience_n will_v never_o bid_v heroa_fw-la take_v away_o the_o life_n of_o a_o innocent_a man_n 2._o if_o a_o man_n be_v dark_a and_o doubtful_a in_o a_o particular_a conscience_n as_o conscience_n be_v always_o single_a but_o credit_n interest_n and_o th●_n like_a have_v always_o some_o by-respect_n which_o steal_v in_o and_o drown_v conscience_n represent_v to_o it_o that_o such_o and_o such_o loss_n or_o prejudice_n will_v follow_v on_o such_o a_o thing_n interest_n and_o reputation_n will_v make_v a_o man_n say_v i_o will_v no●_n do_v such_o a_o thing_n if_o i_o can_v do_v otherways_o but_o shall_v i_o hazard_v all_o my_o estate_n and_o possible_o my_o life_n also_o this_o i_o may_v not_o do_v and_o when_o interest_n and_o particularity_n prevail_v they_o make_v he_o to_o step_v over_o conscience_n and_o to_o think_v that_o he_o do_v no_o fault_n when_o it_o be_v some_o particular_a hazard_n that_o sway_v he_o interest_n be_v satisfy_v from_o a_o suppose_a necessity_n but_o conscience_n acknowledge_v not_o that_o rule_n in_o outward_a thing_n when_o the_o man_n can_v do_v no_o other_o way_n it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o choose_v suffer_v 3._o when_o credit_n interest_n and_o the_o like_a pouss_n their_o impulse_n be_v partial_a and_o violent_a but_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v impartial_a and_o sober_a conscience_n sway_v the_o man_n pouse_v he_o from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o from_o love_n to_o he_o and_o to_o all_o that_o be_v know_v to_o be_v duty_n impartial_o as_o to_o pray_v read_v meditate_v confer_v etc._n etc._n but_o when_o interest_n credit_n or_o inclination_n sway_n he_o they_o will_v drive_v he_o to_o one_o thing_n and_o not_o to_o another_o and_o more_o especial_o to_o that_o which_o may_v satisfy_v his_o humour_n and_o that_o violent_o but_o for_o the_o more_o exercise_v duty_n of_o religion_n as_o to_o humble_v himself_o before_o god_n to_o repent_v of_o sin_n to_o meditate_v etc._n etc._n it_o do_v not_o pouss_n or_o but_o very_o cold_o and_o slow_o as_o some_o man_n will_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o provide_v for_o their_o family_n and_o they_o will_v ride_v and_o run_v for_o that_o but_o if_o any_o object_n of_o charity_n offer_v or_o if_o there_o be_v any_o hazard_n of_o loss_n for_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n sake_n these_o will_v be_v silent_a there_o or_o if_o conscience_n mutter_v it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o regard_v in_o what_o it_o say_v now_o if_o conscience_n swey_v the_o man_n here_o there_o will_v be_v a_o impartial_a respect_n have_v to_o one_o duty_n as_o well_o as_o to_o another_o 4._o where_o interest_n credit_n inclination_n or_o affection_n pour_v they_o drive_v not_o only_o violent_o and_o partial_o but_o irrational_o and_o can_v stay_v nor_o endure_v to_o reason_n and_o debate_v thing_n or_o to_o be_v dissuade_v from_o the_o thing_n towards_o which_o there_o be_v a_o inclination_n and_o will_n neither_o will_v give_v a_o hear_n to_o what_o may_v be_v say_v to_o the_o contrary_a but_o conscience_n in_o its_o impulse_n be_v rational_a and_o sober_a go_v to_o the_o word_n and_o will_v ha●e_v matter_n calm_o season_v and_o debate_v and_o be_v the_o better_o satisfy_v the_o better_a the_o business_n be_v debate_v and_o clear_v because_o it_o like_v and_o love_v rational_a service_n rom._n 12._o 1._o and_o therefore_o lay_v every_o thing_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o ready_o content_v with_o corruption_n with_o which_o inclination_n side_v 5._o when_o credit_n interest_n and_o inclination_n in_o their_o impulse_n be_v thwart_v they_o storm_v they_o vex_v and_o torture_v the_o man_n but_o when_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v thwart_v it_o have_v a_o kindly_a prick_n and_o stound_a the_o impulse_n of_o interest_n or_o inclination_n be_v thwart_v con●useth_v and_o put_v through_o other_o to_o spe●k_v so_o and_o be_v but_o a_o carnal_a fit_n of_o passion_n make_v ●rothy_a light_a and_o distempered_o passionate_a but_o it_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n be_v thwart_v it_o weight_v and_o sting_v deep_o 6._o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n affect_v constant_o and_o chop_v even_o though_o sometime_o in_o its_o chap_a it_o will_v be_v more_o quick_a then_o at_o another_o time_n yet_o where_o it_o sway_v it_o leave_v not_o off_o but_o continue_v chap_a this_o year_n and_o the_o next_o and_o account_v a_o thing_n evil_a or_o good_a in_o another_o as_o well_o as_o in_o a_o man_n self_n and_o in_o himself_o as_o well_o as_o in_o another_o and_o at_o all_o time_n but_o when_o a_o man_n be_v pouss_v by_o credit_n interest_n inclination_n or_o affection_n he_o be_v like_o a_o distemper_a man_n in_o a_o fever_n who_o pulse_n beat_v not_o even_o he_o be_v not_o constant_a and_o equal_a but_o up_o or_o down_o as_o the_o particular_a that_o affect_v he_o 〈◊〉_d his_o humour_n or_o come_v near_o he_o as_o for_o instance_n a_o man_n sway_v by_o his_o interest_n will_v dispute_v for_o the_o government_n of_o such_o a_o person_n this_o year_n and_o for_o the_o government_n of_o another_o the_o next_o for_o such_o a_o interest_n this_o year_n and_o for_o a_o contrary_a one_o the_o next_o for_o one_o sort_n of_o government_n in_o church_n or_o state_n as_o best_a this_o year_n and_o for_o another_o as_o best_a the_o next_o because_o his_o own_o particular_a interest_n come_v in_o to_o side_n with_o it_o and_o so_o he_o change_v his_o principle_n according_a to_o his_o interest_n and_o dispute_v for_o one_o thing_n to_o day_n and_o for_o the_o contrary_a the_o next_o thus_o his_o interest_n forge_v and_o frame_v principle_n to_o maintain_v it_o which_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o such_o man_n great_a principle_n be_v their_o interest_n and_o that_o they_o be_v 〈◊〉_d sway_v from_o a_o native_a principle_n of_o conscience_n else_o they_o will_v be_v more_o even_o and_o constant_a therefore_o beware_v to_o take_v every_o impulse_n for_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n many_o man_n woeful_o abuse_v conscience_n by_o their_o pretension_n to_o it_o as_o if_o some_o weighty_a nay_o some_o extraordinary_a bond_n be_v on_o their_o conscience_n when_o as_o indeed_o inclination_n or_o affection_n or_o some_o other_o such_o thing_n pouss_v they_o on_o the_o three_o question_n be_v may_v not_o even_a conscience_n sometime_o err_v and_o go_v wrong_n may_v it_o not_o pouse_v to_o that_o which_o be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a and_o shall_v it_o then_o be_v follow_v ans._n conscience_n may_v err_v or_o go_v wrong_v two_o way_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o light_n by_o think_v that_o which_o be_v wrong_a to_o be_v right_a 2._o in_o respect_n of_o practice_n in_o application_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o speak_v a_o word_n for_o clear_v of_o both_o and_o first_o in_o the_o general_a when_o we_o say_v that_o man_n shall_v walk_v according_a to_o their_o conscience_n we_o understand_v it_o of_o a_o conscience_n well_o inform_v and_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o duty_n as_o know_v its_o master_n will_v and_o do_v it_o for_o a_o wicked_a man_n may_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o light_a to_o tell_v he_o what_o he_o shall_v do_v and_o to_o challenge_v he_o when_o he_o do_v wrong_a though_o yet_o he_o will_v not_o obey_v it_o therefore_o we_o say_v for_o a_o man_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n be_v to_o have_v a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n and_o do_v duty_n according_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o there_o be_v ten_o sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o man_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o whereof_o five_o fail_v in_o the_o major_n or_o first_o proposition_n in_o respect_n of_o light_n and_o other_o five_o fa●l_n in_o the_o minor_a or_o second_o proposition_n in_o respect_n of_o practice_n or_o application_n the_o five_o sort_n that_o fail_v in_o the_o major_a proposition_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o light_n be_v these_o 1._o a_o err_v conscience_n when_o the_o judgement_n be_v misinform_v and_o account_v duty_n to_o to_o be_v sin_n and_o sin_n to_o be_v