himself_o live_v when_o he_o be_v please_v to_o assume_v our_o nature_n and_o to_o become_v man._n and_o then_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o the_o son_n of_o god_n do_v not_o assume_v our_o nature_n in_o its_o high_a glory_n and_o perfection_n but_o compass_v with_o infirmity_n and_o liable_a in_o all_o point_n to_o be_v tempt_v like_a as_o we_o be_v but_o still_o it_o be_v without_o sin_n and_o therefore_o god_n do_v not_o exact_a from_o we_o perfect_a obedience_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v fulfil_v all_o righteousness_n as_o he_o do_v he_o make_v allowance_n for_o the_o corruption_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o be_v please_v to_o accept_v of_o our_o sincere_a though_o very_o imperfect_a obedience_n but_o after_o all_o this_o his_o humane_a nature_n be_v unite_v to_o the_o divinity_n and_o he_o have_v the_o spirit_n without_o measure_n and_o this_o will_v indeed_o make_v a_o wide_a difference_n between_o we_o and_o our_o pattern_n as_o to_o the_o purpose_n of_o holiness_n and_o obedience_n if_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o that_o assistance_n which_o be_v neceessary_a to_o enable_v we_o to_o the_o discharge_n of_o our_o duty_n but_o this_o god_n offer_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o afford_v to_o we_o for_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o give_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o and_o the_o spirit_n of_o he_o that_o raise_v up_o christ_n jesus_n from_o the_o dead_a dwell_v in_o all_o good_a man_n who_o sincere_o desire_v to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o the_o work_n out_o our_o salvation_n god_n work_v in_o we_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v so_o that_o as_o to_o that_o obedience_n which_o the_o gospel_n require_v of_o we_o if_o we_o be_v not_o want_v to_o ourselves_o if_o we_o do_v not_o receive_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o vain_a and_o quench_v and_o resist_v his_o bless_a spirit_n we_o may_v be_v as_o real_o assist_v as_o the_o son_n of_o god_n himself_o be_v for_o in_o this_o respect_n all_o true_a and_o sincere_a christian_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o that_o st._n paul_n tell_v we_o rom._n 8.14_o as_o many_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o that_o if_o all_o thing_n be_v due_o consider_v the_o life_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n as_o it_o be_v the_o most_o perfect_a so_o in_o the_o main_a it_o be_v a_o very_a proper_a pattern_n for_o our_o imitation_n and_o can_v not_o have_v come_v near_o to_o we_o without_o want_v that_o perfection_n which_o be_v necessary_a to_o a_o complete_a and_o absolute_a pattern_n the_o son_n of_o god_n condescend_v to_o every_o thing_n that_o may_v render_v he_o the_o most_o familiar_a and_o equal_a example_n to_o we_o except_v that_o which_o as_o it_o be_v impossible_a so_o have_v be_v infinite_o dishonourable_a to_o he_o and_o will_v have_v spoil_v the_o perfection_n of_o his_o example_n he_o come_v as_o near_o to_o we_o as_o be_v fit_a or_o possible_a be_v in_o all_o thing_n like_v unto_o we_o sin_n only_o except_v that_o be_v abate_v that_o one_o thing_n which_o he_o come_v to_o destroy_v and_o abolish_v and_o which_o will_v have_v destroy_v the_o very_a end_n of_o his_o come_n for_o if_o he_o have_v not_o be_v without_o sin_n he_o can_v neither_o have_v make_v a_o expiation_n for_o sin_n nor_o have_v be_v a_o perfect_a pattern_n of_o holiness_n and_o obedience_n and_o as_o the_o life_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n have_v all_o the_o perfection_n that_o be_v requisite_a to_o a_o absolute_a pattern_n so_o that_o by_o consider_v his_o temper_n and_o spirit_n and_o the_o action_n of_o his_o life_n we_o may_v reform_v all_o the_o vicious_a inclination_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o exorbitance_n of_o our_o passion_n and_o the_o error_n and_o irregularity_n of_o our_o life_n so_o it_o be_v a_o very_a powerful_a example_n and_o of_o great_a force_n to_o oblige_v and_o provoke_v we_o to_o the_o imitation_n of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v the_o example_n of_o one_o who_o we_o ought_v to_o reverence_n and_o have_v reason_n to_o love_n above_o any_o person_n in_o the_o world_n the_o example_n of_o our_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a lord_n of_o our_o best_a friend_n and_o great_a benefactor_n of_o the_o high_a priest_n of_o our_o profession_n and_o the_o captain_n of_o our_o salvation_n of_o the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n of_o one_o who_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n for_o our_o sake_n and_o be_v content_v to_o assume_v our_o nature_n together_o with_o the_o infirmity_n of_o it_o and_o to_o live_v in_o a_o low_a and_o mean_a condition_n for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o that_o he_o may_v have_v the_o opportunity_n to_o instruct_v and_o lead_v mankind_n in_o the_o way_n to_o life_n to_o deliver_v we_o from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n and_o to_o bring_v we_o to_o god_n and_o happiness_n it_o be_v the_o example_n of_o one_o who_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o we_o and_o seal_v his_o love_n to_o we_o in_o his_o blood_n and_o whilst_o we_o be_v enemy_n do_v and_o suffer_v more_o for_o we_o than_o ever_o any_o man_n do_v for_o his_o friend_n and_o sure_o these_o consideration_n can_v but_o mighty_o recommend_v and_o endear_v to_o we_o this_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n we_o be_v ambitious_a to_o imitate_v those_o who_o we_o high_o esteem_v and_o reverence_n and_o be_v apt_a to_o have_v their_o example_n in_o great_a veneration_n from_o who_o we_o have_v receive_v great_a kindness_n and_o benefit_n and_o be_v always_o endeavour_v to_o be_v like_o those_o who_o we_o love_v and_o be_v apt_a to_o conform_v ourselves_o to_o the_o will_n and_o pleasure_n of_o those_o from_o who_o we_o have_v receive_v great_a favour_n and_o who_o be_v continual_o heap_v great_a obligation_n upon_o we_o so_o that_o whether_o we_o consider_v the_o excellency_n of_o our_o pattern_n or_o the_o mighty_a endearment_n of_o it_o to_o we_o by_o that_o infinite_a love_n and_o kindness_n which_o he_o have_v express_v towards_o we_o we_o have_v all_o the_o temptation_n and_o all_o the_o provocation_n in_o the_o world_n to_o endeavour_v to_o be_v like_o he_o for_o who_o will_v not_o glad_o tread_v in_o the_o step_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o best_a friend_n that_o the_o son_n of_o man_n ever_o have_v who_o will_v not_o follow_v that_o example_n to_o which_o we_o stand_v indebt_v for_o the_o great_a blessing_n and_o benefit_n that_o ever_o be_v procure_v for_o mankind_n thus_o you_o see_v of_o what_o force_n and_o advantage_v the_o example_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n be_v towards_o the_o recovery_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n 3_o dly_z he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n as_o he_o have_v purchase_v it_o for_o we_o by_o the_o merit_n of_o his_o obedience_n and_o suffering_n by_o which_o he_o have_v obtain_v eternal_a redemption_n for_o we_o not_o only_a deliverance_n from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v but_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n when_o by_o our_o sin_n we_o have_v just_o incur_v the_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n of_o almighty_n god_n and_o be_v liable_a to_o eternal_a death_n and_o misery_n he_o be_v content_v to_o be_v substitute_v a_o sacrifice_n for_o we_o to_o bear_v our_o sin_n in_o his_o own_o body_n on_o the_o tree_n and_o to_o expiate_v the_o guilt_n of_o all_o our_o offence_n by_o his_o own_o suffering_n he_o die_v for_o we_o that_o be_v not_o only_o for_o our_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n but_o in_o our_o place_n and_o stead_n so_o that_o if_o he_o have_v not_o die_v we_o have_v eternal_o perish_v and_o because_o he_o die_v we_o be_v save_v from_o that_o eternal_a ruin_n and_o punishment_n which_o be_v due_a to_o we_o for_o our_o sin_n and_o this_o though_o it_o be_v not_o where_o in_o scripture_n call_v by_o the_o name_n or_o term_n of_o satisfaction_n yet_o which_o be_v the_o same_o thing_n in_o effect_n it_o be_v call_v the_o prize_n of_o our_o redemption_n for_o as_o we_o be_v sinner_n we_o be_v liable_a and_o indebt_v to_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n and_o our_o bless_a saviour_n by_o his_o death_n and_o suffering_n have_v discharge_v this_o obligation_n which_o discharge_v since_o it_o be_v obtain_v for_o we_o by_o the_o shed_n of_o his_o precious_a blood_n without_o which_o the_o scripture_n express_o say_v there_o have_v be_v no_o remission_n of_o sin_n why_o it_o may_v not_o proper_o enough_o be_v call_v payment_n and_o satisfaction_n i_o confess_v i_o can_v understand_v not_o that_o god_n be_v angry_a with_o his_o son_n for_o he_o be_v always_o well_o please_v with_o he_o or_o that_o our_o saviour_n suffer_v the_o very_a same_o which_o the_o sinner_n shall_v have_v do_v in_o his_o own_o person_n the_o proper_a pain_n and_o torment_n of_o the_o damn_a but_o that_o his_o perfect_a
in_o the_o more_o notorious_o he_o contradict_v his_o profession_n and_o fall_v off_o from_o christianity_n and_o the_o near_o he_o approach_v to_o the_o sin_n in_o the_o text_n and_o the_o danger_n there_o threaten_v but_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o this_o be_v not_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o 4_o thly_a but_o it_o be_v a_o total_a apostasy_n from_o the_o christian_a religion_n more_o especial_o to_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n the_o renounce_n of_o the_o true_a god_n and_o our_o saviour_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o false_a god_n which_o the_o apostle_n here_o speak_v of_o and_o this_o will_v be_v evident_a if_o we_o consider_v the_o occasion_n and_o main_a scope_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o that_o be_v to_o confirm_v the_o jew_n who_o have_v new_o embrace_v christianity_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o that_o religion_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o from_o apostatise_v from_o it_o because_o of_o the_o persecution_n and_o suffering_n which_o attend_v that_o profession_n it_o please_v god_n when_o christianity_n first_o appear_v in_o the_o world_n to_o permit_v the_o power_n of_o the_o world_n to_o raise_v a_o vehement_a persecution_n against_o the_o professor_n of_o it_o by_o reason_n whereof_o many_o out_o of_o base_a fear_n do_v apostatise_v from_o it_o and_o in_o testimony_n of_o their_o renounce_n it_o be_v force_v to_o sacrifice_n to_o the_o heathen_a idol_n this_o be_v that_o which_o the_o apostle_n endeavour_v to_o caution_n and_o arm_n man_n against_o throughout_o this_o epistle_n ch._n 2.1_o therefore_o we_o ought_v to_o give_v the_o more_o earnest_a heed_n to_o the_o thing_n which_o we_o have_v hear_v lest_o at_o any_o time_n we_o shall_v fall_v away_o and_o chap._n 3.12_o it_o be_v call_v a_o evil_a heart_n of_o unbelief_n to_o apostatise_v from_o the_o live_a god_n take_v heed_n brethren_n lest_o there_o be_v in_o any_o of_o you_o a_o evil_a heart_n of_o unbelief_n to_o depart_v from_o the_o live_a god_n that_o be_v to_o fall_v from_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n to_o idolatry_n and_o chap._n 10.23_o let_v we_o hold_v fast_o the_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n without_o waver_v not_o forsake_v the_o assemble_v of_o ourselves_o together_o that_o be_v not_o decline_v the_o assembly_n of_o christian_n for_o fear_n of_o persecution_n and_o v._o 26._o it_o be_v call_v a_o sin_v wilful_o after_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o v._o 39_o a_o draw_v back_o to_o perdition_n and_o ch._n 12._o it_o be_v call_v by_o way_n of_o eminency_n the_o sin_n which_o so_o easy_o beset_v the_o sin_n which_o in_o those_o time_n of_o persecution_n they_o be_v so_o liable_a to_o and_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o this_o be_v the_o sin_n which_o st._n john_n speak_v of_o and_o call_v the_o sin_n unto_o death_n and_o do_v not_o require_v christian_n to_o pray_v for_o those_o who_o fall_v into_o it_o with_o any_o assurance_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v forgive_v 1_o john_n 5.16_o there_o be_v a_o sin_n unto_o death_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o he_o shall_v pray_v for_o it_o all_o vnrighteousness_n be_v sin_n and_o there_o be_v a_o sin_n not_o unto_o death_n we_o know_v that_o whosoever_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n sin_v not_o that_o be_v do_v not_o fall_v into_o the_o sin_n of_o apostasy_n from_o christianity_n to_o that_o of_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n but_o he_o that_o be_v beget_v of_o god_n keep_v himself_o and_o that_o wicked_a one_o touch_v he_o not_o and_o then_o v._o 21._o he_o add_v this_o caution_n little_a child_n keep_v yourselves_o from_o idol_n which_o sufficient_o show_v what_o that_o sin_n be_v which_o he_o be_v speak_v of_o before_o so_o that_o this_o be_v the_o sin_n which_o the_o apostle_n design_v to_o caution_n man_n against_o throughout_o this_o epistle_n it_o be_v very_o evident_a what_o fall_v away_o it_o be_v he_o here_o speak_v of_o namely_o a_o total_a apostasy_n from_o christianity_n and_o more_o especial_o to_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n 5_o thly_a we_o will_v consider_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o difficulty_n of_o recover_v such_o person_n by_o repentance_n if_o they_o fall_v away_o it_o be_v extreme_o difficult_a to_o renew_v they_o again_o to_o repentance_n and_o that_o for_o these_o three_o reason_n 1._o because_o of_o the_o greatness_n and_o heinousness_n of_o the_o sin_n 2._o because_o it_o renounce_v and_o cast_v off_o the_o mean_n of_o recovery_n 3._o because_o it_o be_v so_o high_a a_o provocation_n of_o god_n to_o withdraw_v his_o grace_n from_o such_o person_n 1._o because_o of_o the_o greatness_n and_o heinousness_n of_o the_o sin_n both_o in_o the_o nature_n and_o circumstance_n of_o it_o it_o be_v a_o downright_a apostasy_n from_o god_n a_o direct_a renounce_n of_o he_o and_o reject_v of_o his_o truth_n after_o man_n have_v own_v it_o and_o be_v inward_o persuade_v and_o convince_v of_o it_o and_o so_o the_o apostle_n express_v it_o in_o this_o epistle_n call_v it_o a_o apostasy_n from_o the_o live_a god_n a_o sin_v wilful_o after_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n it_o have_v all_o the_o aggravation_n that_o a_o crime_n be_v capable_a of_o be_v against_o the_o clear_a light_n and_o knowledge_n and_o the_o full_a conviction_n of_o a_o man_n mind_n concern_v the_o truth_n and_o goodness_n of_o that_o religion_n which_o he_o renounce_v against_o the_o great_a obligation_n lay_v upon_o he_o by_o the_o grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o the_o gospel_n after_o the_o free_a pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o the_o grace_n and_o assistance_n of_o god_n spirit_n receive_v and_o a_o miraculous_a power_n confer_v for_o a_o witness_n and_o testimony_n to_o themselves_o of_o the_o undoubted_a truth_n of_o that_o religion_n which_o they_o have_v embrace_v it_o be_v the_o high_a affront_n to_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o reveal_v this_o religion_n to_o the_o world_n and_o seal_v it_o with_o his_o blood_n and_o in_o effect_n a_o expression_n of_o as_o high_a malice_n to_o the_o author_n of_o this_o religion_n as_o the_o jew_n be_v guilty_a of_o when_o they_o put_v he_o to_o so_o cruel_a and_o shameful_a a_o death_n now_o a_o sin_n of_o this_o heinous_a nature_n be_v apt_a natural_o either_o to_o plunge_v man_n into_o hardness_n and_o impenitency_n or_o to_o drive_v they_o to_o despair_v and_o either_o of_o these_o condition_n be_v effectual_a barrs_n to_o their_o recovery_n and_o both_o these_o danger_n the_o apostle_n warn_v man_n of_o in_o this_o epistle_n ch._n 3.12_o 13._o take_v heed_n brethren_n lest_o there_o be_v in_o any_o of_o you_o a_o evil_a heart_n of_o unbelief_n to_o apostatise_v from_o the_o live_a god_n but_o exhort_v one_o another_o daily_a whilst_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n lest_o any_o of_o you_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n or_o else_o the_o reflection_n upon_o so_o horrid_a a_o crime_n be_v apt_a to_o drive_v a_o man_n to_o despair_n as_o it_o do_v judas_n who_o after_o he_o have_v betray_v the_o son_n of_o god_n can_v find_v no_o ease_n but_o by_o make_v away_o himself_o the_o guilt_n of_o so_o great_a a_o sin_n fill_v he_o with_o such_o terror_n that_o he_o be_v glad_a to_o fly_v to_o death_n for_o refuge_n and_o to_o lay_v violent_a hand_n upon_o himself_o and_o this_o likewise_o be_v the_o case_n of_o spira_n who_o apostasy_n though_o it_o be_v not_o total_a from_o the_o christian_a religion_n but_o only_o from_o the_o purity_n and_o reformation_n of_o it_o bring_v he_o to_o that_o desperation_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o hell_n upon_o earth_n and_o of_o this_o danger_n likewise_o the_o apostle_n admonish_v ch._n 12.15_o look_v diligent_o lest_o any_o man_n fail_v of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n or_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o margin_n lest_o any_o man_n fall_v from_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n lest_o any_o root_n of_o bitterness_n spring_v up_o trouble_v you_o and_o then_o he_o compare_v the_o case_n of_o such_o person_n to_o esau_n who_o when_o he_o have_v renounce_v his_o birthright_n to_o which_o the_o blessing_n be_v annex_v be_v afterward_o when_o he_o will_v have_v inherit_v the_o blessing_n reject_v and_o find_v no_o place_n of_o repentance_n though_o he_o seek_v it_o careful_o with_o tear_n 2_o dly_z those_o who_o be_v guilty_a of_o this_o sin_n do_v renounce_v and_o cast_v off_o the_o mean_n of_o their_o recovery_n and_o therefore_o it_o become_v extreme_o difficult_a to_o renew_v they_o again_o to_o repentance_n they_o reject_v the_o gospel_n which_o afford_v the_o best_a argument_n and_o mean_n to_o repentance_n and_o renounce_v the_o only_a way_n of_o pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n and_o certain_o that_o man_n be_v in_o a_o very_a sad_a and_o desperate_a condition_n the_o very_a nature_n of_o who_o disease_n be_v to_o reject_v the_o remedy_n that_o shall_v cure_v he_o and_o
of_o the_o apostle_n immediate_o after_o the_o text_n the_o earth_n which_o drink_v in_o the_o rain_n that_o come_v oft_o upon_o it_o and_o bring_v forth_o herb_n meet_v for_o they_o by_o who_o it_o be_v dress_v receive_v blessing_n from_o god_n but_o that_o which_o bear_v thorn_n and_o brier_n be_v reject_v and_o be_v nigh_o unto_o curse_v who_o end_n be_v to_o be_v burn_v and_o how_o glad_o will_v i_o add_v the_o next_o word_n but_o belove_v we_o be_v persuade_v better_a thing_n of_o you_o and_o thing_n that_o accompany_v salvation_n though_o we_o thus_o speak_v sermon_n vi_o christ_n the_o author_n and_o obedience_n the_o condition_n of_o salvation_n heb._n v._n 9_o and_o be_v make_v perfect_a he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n unto_o all_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o this_o be_v speak_v of_o christ_n our_o great_a high_a priest_n under_o the_o gospel_n upon_o the_o excellency_n of_o who_o person_n and_o the_o efficacy_n of_o his_o sacrifice_n for_o the_o eternal_a benefit_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n the_o apostle_n insist_o so_o large_o in_o this_o and_o the_o follow_a chapter_n but_o the_o sum_n of_o all_o be_v brief_o comprehend_v in_o the_o text_n that_o our_o high_a priest_n be_v make_v perfect_a become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o v._n vol._n v._n in_o which_o word_n we_o have_v these_o four_o thing_n considerable_a 1_o st_o the_o great_a blessing_n and_o benefit_n here_o speak_v of_o and_o that_o be_v eternal_a salvation_n and_o this_o imply_v in_o it_o not_o only_o our_o deliverance_n from_o hell_n and_o redemption_n from_o eternal_a misery_n but_o the_o obtain_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n for_o we_o 2_o dly_z the_o author_n of_o this_o great_a blessing_n and_o benefit_n to_o mankind_n and_o that_o be_v jesus_n christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o be_v here_o represent_v to_o we_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o our_o high_a priest_n who_o by_o make_v atonement_n for_o we_o and_o reconcile_a we_o to_o god_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o mankind_n 3_o dly_z the_o way_n and_o means_n whereby_o he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v make_v perfect_a he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n the_o word_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d have_v consummate_v his_o work_n and_o finish_v his_o course_n and_o receive_v the_o reward_n of_o it_o for_o this_o word_n have_v a_o allusion_n to_o those_o that_o run_v in_o a_o race_n where_o he_o that_o win_v receive_v the_o crown_n and_o to_o this_o the_o apostle_n plain_o allude_v phil._n 3.12_o where_o he_o say_v not_o as_o though_o i_o have_v already_o attain_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d not_o as_o if_o i_o have_v already_o take_v hold_v of_o the_o prize_n but_o i_o be_o press_v 6._o ser._n 6._o or_o reach_v forward_o towards_o it_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o be_v already_o perfect_a that_o be_v not_o as_o if_o i_o have_v finish_v my_o course_n or_o have_v the_o prize_n or_o crown_n in_o my_o hand_n but_o i_o be_o press_v forward_o towards_o it_o in_o like_a manner_n our_o bless_a saviour_n when_o he_o have_v finish_v the_o course_n of_o his_o humiliation_n and_o obedience_n which_o be_v accomplish_v in_o his_o suffering_n and_o have_v receive_v the_o reward_n of_o they_o be_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a and_o exalt_v to_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n and_o crown_v with_o glory_n and_o honour_n he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d make_v perfect_a and_o therefore_o when_o he_o be_v give_v up_o the_o ghost_n upon_o the_o cross_n he_o say_v john_n 19.30_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v finish_v or_o perfect_v that_o be_v he_o have_v do_v all_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v do_v by_o way_n of_o suffering_n for_o our_o redemption_n and_o the_o same_o word_n be_v likewise_o use_v luke_n 13.32_o concernine_v our_o saviour_n suffering_n i_o do_v cure_n to_o day_n and_o to_o morrow_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o three_o day_n i_o shall_v be_v perfect_v this_o he_o speak_v concern_v his_o own_o death_n and_o therefore_o ch._n 2.10_o god_n be_v say_v to_o make_v the_o captain_n of_o our_o salvation_n perfect_a through_o suffering_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o thus_o our_o high_a priest_n be_v make_v perfect_a in_o this_o sense_n that_o be_v have_v finish_v his_o course_n which_o be_v accomplish_v in_o his_o suffering_n and_o have_v receive_v the_o reward_n of_o they_o in_o be_v exalt_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o we_o 4_o thly_a you_o have_v here_o the_o qualification_n of_o the_o person_n who_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o this_o great_a benefit_n or_o the_o condition_n upon_o which_o it_o be_v suspend_v and_o that_o be_v obedience_n he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o these_o be_v the_o main_a thing_n contain_v in_o the_o text._n for_o the_o full_a explication_n whereof_o i_o shall_v take_v into_o consideration_n these_o five_o thing_n 1_o st_o how_o and_o by_o what_o mean_v christ_n be_v the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n 2_o dly_z what_o obedience_n the_o gospel_n require_v as_o a_o condition_n and_o be_v please_v to_o accept_v as_o a_o qualification_n in_o those_o who_o hope_v for_o eternal_a salvation_n 3_o dly_z we_o will_v consider_v the_o possibility_n of_o perform_v this_o condition_n by_o that_o grace_n and_o assistance_n which_o be_v offer_v and_o ready_a to_o be_v afford_v to_o we_o by_o the_o gospel_n 4_o thly_a the_o necessity_n of_o this_o obedience_n in_o order_n to_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n and_o 5_o thly_a i_o shall_v show_v that_o this_o be_v no_o prejudice_n to_o the_o law_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o free_a grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n declare_v in_o the_o gospel_n 1_o st_o we_o will_v consider_v how_o and_o by_o what_o mean_v christ_n be_v the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o this_o be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n be_v make_v perfect_a he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n that_o be_v as_o i_o tell_v you_o before_o have_v finish_v his_o course_n which_o be_v accomplish_v in_o his_o last_o suffering_n and_o have_v receive_v the_o reward_n of_o they_o be_v exalt_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o we_o so_o that_o by_o all_o that_o he_o do_v and_o suffer_v for_o we_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o his_o humiliation_n and_o by_o all_o that_o he_o still_o continue_v to_o do_v for_o we_o now_o that_o he_o be_v in_o heaven_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n he_o have_v effect_v and_o bring_v about_o the_o great_a work_n of_o our_o salvation_n his_o doctrine_n and_o his_o life_n his_o death_n and_o suffering_n his_o resurrection_n from_o the_o dead_a and_o his_o powerful_a intercession_n for_o we_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n have_v all_o a_o great_a influence_n upon_o the_o reforming_a and_o save_v of_o mankind_n and_o by_o all_o these_o way_n and_o mean_n he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o cause_n of_o our_o salvation_n as_o a_o rule_n and_o as_o a_o pattern_n as_o a_o price_n and_o propitiation_n and_o as_o a_o patron_n and_o advocate_n that_o be_v continual_o plead_v our_o cause_n and_o intercede_v with_o god_n on_o our_o behalf_n for_o mercy_n and_o grace_n to_o help_v in_o time_n of_o need_n and_o indeed_o our_o condition_n require_v a_o high_a priest_n who_o be_v qualify_v in_o all_o these_o respect_n for_o the_o recovery_n of_o mankind_n out_o of_o that_o corrupt_a and_o degenerate_a state_n into_o which_o it_o be_v sink_v a_o high_a priest_n who_o lip_n shall_v preserve_v knowledge_n and_o from_o who_o mouth_n we_o may_v learn_v the_o law_n of_o god_n who_o life_n shall_v be_v a_o perfect_a pattern_n of_o holiness_n to_o we_o and_o his_o death_n a_o propitiation_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o by_o who_o grace_n and_o assistance_n we_o shall_v be_v endow_v with_o power_n and_o strength_n to_o mortify_v our_o lust_n and_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o such_o a_o high_a priest_n become_v we_o who_o be_v holy_a harmless_a undefiled_a and_o separate_v from_o sinner_n who_o may_v have_v compassion_n on_o the_o ignorant_a and_o they_o that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n and_o be_v himself_o compass_v with_o infirmity_n may_v have_v the_o feel_n of_o we_o be_v in_o all_o point_v tempt_v as_o we_o be_v only_o without_o sin_n and_o in_o a_o word_n may_v be_v able_a to_o save_v to_o the_o utmost_a all_o those_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o see_v
obedience_n and_o grievous_a suffering_n undergo_v for_o our_o sake_n and_o upon_o our_o account_n be_v of_o that_o value_n and_o esteem_n with_o god_n and_o his_o voluntary_a sacrifice_n of_o himself_o in_o our_o stead_n so_o high_o acceptable_a and_o well_o please_v to_o he_o that_o he_o thereupon_o be_v please_v to_o enter_v into_o a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o mercy_n with_o mankind_n wherein_o he_o have_v promise_v and_o engage_v himself_o to_o forgive_v the_o sin_n of_o all_o those_o who_o sincere_o repent_v and_o believe_v and_o to_o make_v they_o partaker_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v shed_v for_o we_o upon_o the_o cross_n be_v call_v the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n as_o be_v the_o sanction_n of_o that_o new_a covenant_n of_o the_o gospel_n into_o which_o god_n be_v enter_v with_o mankind_n and_o not_o only_o the_o confirmation_n but_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o it_o for_o which_o reason_n the_o cup_n in_o the_o lord_n supper_n which_o represent_v to_o we_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v call_v the_o new_a testament_n in_o his_o blood_n which_o be_v shed_v for_o many_o for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n 4_o thly_a and_o last_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o powerful_a and_o perpetual_a intercession_n for_o we_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n and_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v more_o especial_o intimate_v and_o intend_v in_o that_o expression_n here_o in_o the_o text_n that_o be_v make_v perfect_a he_o become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n to_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o which_o word_n of_o his_o be_v perfect_v do_v as_o i_o have_v show_v before_o more_o immediate_o refer_v to_o his_o suffering_n and_o the_o reward_n that_o follow_v they_o his_o exaltation_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n where_o he_o live_v for_o ever_o to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o by_o which_o perpetual_a and_o most_o prevalent_a intercession_n of_o he_o he_o procure_v all_o those_o benefit_n to_o be_v bestow_v upon_o we_o which_o he_o purchase_v for_o we_o by_o his_o death_n the_o forgiveness_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o our_o acceptance_n with_o god_n and_o perfect_a restitution_n to_o his_o favour_n upon_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o the_o grace_n and_o assistance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n to_o enable_v we_o to_o a_o sincere_a discharge_n of_o our_o duty_n to_o strengthen_v we_o against_o all_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n the_o flesh_n and_o the_o devil_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o all_o evil_a and_o to_o preserve_v we_o to_o his_o heavenly_a kingdom_n and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o our_o apostle_n call_v obtain_v of_o mercy_n and_o find_v grace_n to_o help_v in_o time_n of_o need_n ch_n 4._o v._n 16._o of_o this_o epist_n our_o bless_a saviour_n now_o that_o he_o be_v advance_v into_o heaven_n and_o exalt_v on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o majesty_n on_o high_a do_v out_o of_o the_o tender_a affection_n and_o compassion_n to_o mankind_n still_o prosecute_v that_o great_a and_o merciful_a design_n of_o our_o salvation_n which_o be_v begin_v by_o he_o here_o on_o earth_n and_o in_o virtue_n of_o his_o meritorious_a obedience_n and_o suffering_n do_v offer_v up_o our_o prayer_n to_o god_n and_o as_o it_o be_v plead_v our_o cause_n with_o god_n and_o represent_v to_o he_o all_o our_o want_n and_o necessity_n and_o obtain_v a_o favourable_a answer_n of_o our_o petition_n put_v up_o to_o god_n in_o his_o name_n and_o all_o necessary_a supply_n of_o grace_n and_o strength_n proportionable_a to_o our_o temptation_n and_o infirmity_n and_o by_o virtue_n of_o this_o powerful_a intercession_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o redeemer_n our_o sin_n be_v pardon_v upon_o our_o sincere_a repentance_n our_o prayer_n be_v gracious_o answer_v our_o want_n be_v abundant_o supply_v and_o the_o grace_n and_o assistance_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v plentiful_o afford_v to_o we_o to_o excite_v we_o to_o our_o duty_n to_o strengthen_v we_o in_o well_o do_v to_o comfort_v we_o in_o affliction_n to_o support_v we_o under_o the_o great_a trial_n and_o suffering_n and_o to_o keep_v we_o through_o faith_n unto_o salvation_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n as_o the_o purchase_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v in_o scripture_n attribute_v to_o the_o death_n and_o suffering_n of_o christ_n so_o the_o perfect_a and_o finish_v of_o it_o be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o prevalency_n of_o his_o intercession_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n for_o we_o so_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o ch_n 7._o v._n 25._o that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a all_o those_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o see_v he_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o he_o die_v once_o to_o purchase_v salvation_n for_o we_o and_o that_o we_o may_v not_o fall_v short_a of_o it_o but_o receive_v the_o full_a benefit_n of_o this_o purchase_n he_o live_v for_o ever_o to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o and_o thus_o he_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a all_o those_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o that_o be_v he_o take_v care_n of_o the_o whole_a business_n of_o our_o salvation_n from_o first_o to_o last_o and_o now_o that_o he_o be_v in_o heaven_n he_o be_v as_o intent_n to_o procure_v our_o welfare_n and_o happiness_n and_o as_o tender_o concern_v for_o we_o as_o when_o he_o live_v here_o among_o we_o upon_o earth_n as_o when_o he_o hang_v upon_o the_o cross_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o soul_n a_o offer_n for_o our_o sin_n for_o he_o appear_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n in_o our_o nature_n that_o which_o he_o assume_v for_o our_o sake_n which_o be_v make_v subject_a to_o and_o sensible_a of_o our_o infirmity_n and_o which_o be_v tempt_v in_o all_o thing_n like_v as_o we_o be_v only_o without_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o know_v how_o to_o pity_v and_o succour_v they_o that_o be_v tempt_v and_o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o own_o suffering_n be_v prompt_v to_o a_o compassionate_a sense_n of_o we_o and_o never_o cease_v in_o virtue_n of_o his_o blood_n which_o be_v shed_v for_o we_o to_o plead_v our_o cause_n with_o god_n and_o to_o intercede_v powerful_o on_o our_o behalf_n so_o that_o the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o christ_n intercession_n on_o our_o behalf_n be_v found_v in_o the_o redemption_n which_o he_o wrought_v for_o we_o by_o his_o blood_n and_o suffering_n which_o be_v enter_v into_o heaven_n he_o represent_v to_o god_n on_o our_o behalf_n as_o the_o high_a priest_n under_o the_o law_n do_v enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o sacrifice_n that_o have_v be_v offer_v and_o in_o virtue_n of_o that_o blood_n intercede_v for_o the_o people_n so_o christ_n by_o his_o own_o blood_n enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n have_v obtain_v eternal_a redemption_n for_o we_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v ch_z 9_o v._n 12._o he_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n that_o be_v into_o heaven_n itself_o to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o as_o the_o apostle_n explain_v himself_o v._o 24._o christ_n be_v not_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n which_o be_v make_v with_o hand_n but_o into_o heaven_n itself_o to_o appear_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n for_o we_o and_o ch_z 10._o v._n 12._o speak_v of_o christ_n appear_v for_o we_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n this_o man_n say_v he_o after_o he_o have_v offer_v one_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n for_o ever_o that_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n of_o perpetual_a virtue_n and_o efficacy_n sit_v down_o at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n that_o be_v to_o intercede_v for_o we_o in_o virtue_n of_o that_o sacrifice_n from_o all_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o virtue_n of_o christ_n mediation_n and_o intercession_n for_o we_o in_o heaven_n be_v found_v in_o his_o sacrifice_n and_o the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n which_o he_o pay_v on_o earth_n in_o shed_v his_o blood_n for_o we_o from_o whence_o the_o apostle_n reason_n that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n by_o who_o we_o be_v to_o address_v our_o prayer_n to_o god_n 1_o tim._n 2.5_o there_o be_v one_o god_n and_o one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n who_o give_v himself_o a_o ransom_n for_o all_o his_o mediation_n be_v found_v in_o his_o ransom_n or_o the_o price_n which_o he_o pay_v for_o our_o redemption_n the_o apostle_n indeed_o do_v not_o say_v there_o be_v but_o one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n in_o express_a word_n but_o sure_o he_o mean_v so_o if_o by_o say_v there_o be_v one_o god_n he_o mean_v there_o be_v but_o one_o god_n for_o they_o be_v join_v together_o and_o the_o very_a same_o expression_n use_v concern_v
obedience_n and_o good_a work_n chap._n 3.8_o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o these_o thing_n i_o will_v that_o thou_o affirm_v constant_o that_o they_o who_o have_v belieed_o in_o god_n be_v careful_a to_o maintain_v good_a work_n all_o that_o now_o remain_v be_v to_o make_v some_o useful_a inference_n from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v upon_o this_o argument_n and_o so_o to_o conclude_v this_o discourse_n first_o of_o all_o to_o convince_v we_o that_o a_o empty_a profession_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n how_o specious_a and_o glorious_a soever_o it_o be_v if_o it_o be_v destitute_a of_o the_o fruit_n of_o obedience_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n will_v by_o no_o mean_n avail_v to_o bring_v we_o to_o heaven_n no_o profession_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n no_o subjection_n to_o he_o though_o we_o be_v baptize_v in_o his_o name_n and_o listen_v ourselves_o in_o the_o number_n of_o his_o disciple_n and_o follower_n though_o we_o have_v make_v a_o constant_a profession_n of_o all_o the_o article_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n and_o have_v perform_v all_o the_o external_a part_n and_o duty_n of_o religion_n have_v go_v constant_o to_o church_n and_o frequent_v the_o service_n of_o god_n and_o have_v join_v in_o public_a prayer_n to_o god_n with_o great_a appearance_n of_o devotion_n and_o have_v hear_v his_o word_n with_o great_a reverence_n and_o attention_n and_o receive_v the_o bless_a sacrament_n with_o all_o imaginable_a expression_n of_o love_n and_o gratitude_n to_o our_o belessed_a redeemer_n nay_o though_o we_o have_v hear_v our_o bless_a saviour_n himself_o teach_v in_o our_o street_n and_o have_v eat_v and_o drunken_a in_o his_o presence_n yet_o if_o all_o this_o while_n we_o have_v not_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o obey_v his_o law_n none_o of_o all_o these_o thing_n will_v signify_v any_o thing_n to_o bring_v we_o to_o heaven_n and_o make_v we_o partaker_n of_o that_o salvation_n which_o he_o have_v purchase_v for_o mankind_n but_o we_o can_v plead_v so_o much_o for_o ourselves_o as_o those_o do_v of_o who_o our_o saviour_n speak_v none_o of_o we_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o allege_v for_o ourselves_o at_o the_o great_a day_n that_o we_o have_v prophesy_v in_o his_o name_n and_o in_o his_o name_n have_v cast_v out_o devil_n and_o in_o his_o name_n have_v do_v many_o wonderful_a work_n and_o yet_o if_o we_o can_v allege_v all_o this_o it_o will_v do_v we_o no_o good_a all_o that_o such_o can_v say_v for_o themselves_o be_v that_o they_o have_v call_v he_o lord_n lord_n that_o be_v they_o have_v make_v profession_n of_o his_o religion_n and_o be_v call_v by_o his_o name_n that_o they_o have_v pay_v a_o outward_a honour_n and_o respect_n to_o he_o and_o declare_v a_o mighty_a love_n and_o affection_n for_o he_o but_o they_o have_v not_o do_v his_o will_n but_o have_v hate_v to_o be_v reform_v and_o have_v cast_v his_o commandment_n behind_o their_o back_n they_o have_v only_o bear_v the_o leave_n of_o a_o outward_a profession_n but_o have_v bring_v forth_o no_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n and_o therefore_o can_v have_v no_o reasonable_a expectation_n that_o their_o end_n shall_v be_v everlasting_a life_n so_o that_o when_o these_o man_n shall_v appear_v before_o the_o great_a and_o terrible_a judge_n of_o the_o world_n they_o shall_v have_v nothing_o to_o say_v but_o those_o vain_a word_n lord_n lord_n to_o which_o our_o saviour_n will_v answer_v in_o that_o day_n why_o call_v you_o i_o lord_n lord_n when_o you_o will_v not_o do_v the_o thing_n which_o i_o say_v notwithstanding_o all_o your_o profession_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o and_o subjection_n to_o i_o you_o have_v be_v worker_n of_o iniquity_n therefore_o depart_v from_o i_o i_o know_v you_o not_o whence_o you_o be_v second_o the_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v shall_v stir_v as_o up_o to_o a_o thankful_a acknowledgement_n of_o what_o the_o author_n of_o our_o salvation_n have_v do_v for_o we_o and_o there_o be_v great_a reason_n for_o thankfulness_n whether_o we_o consider_v the_o greatness_n of_o the_o benefit_n confer_v upon_o we_o or_o the_o way_n and_o manner_n in_o which_o it_o be_v purchase_v or_o the_o easy_a and_o reasonable_a term_n upon_o which_o it_o may_v be_v obtain_v 1_o st_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o greatness_n of_o the_o benefit_n confer_v upon_o we_o and_o that_o be_v salvation_n eternal_a salvation_n which_o comprehend_v in_o it_o all_o the_o blessing_n and_o benefit_n of_o the_o gospel_n both_o the_o mean_n and_o the_o end_n our_o happiness_n and_o the_o way_n to_o it_o by_o save_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n from_o the_o guilt_n of_o they_o by_o our_o justification_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o from_o the_o power_n and_o dominion_n of_o they_o by_o the_o sanctify_a grace_n and_o virtue_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o it_o comprehend_v the_o end_n our_o deliverance_n from_o hell_n and_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v and_o the_o bestow_n of_o happiness_n upon_o we_o a_o great_a and_o last_a happiness_n great_a as_o our_o wish_n and_o immortal_a as_o our_o soul_n all_o this_o be_v comprehend_v in_o eternal_a salvation_n 2_o dly_z if_o we_o consider_v the_o way_n and_o manner_n in_o which_o this_o great_a benefit_n be_v purchase_v and_o procure_v for_o we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o infinite_a kindness_n and_o condescension_n in_o the_o low_a humiliation_n and_o the_o unparalleled_a suffering_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n for_o never_o be_v there_o any_o sorrow_n like_a unto_o his_o sorrow_n wherewith_o the_o lord_n afflict_v he_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o fierce_a anger_n in_o his_o take_n upon_o he_o the_o form_n of_o a_o servant_n and_o the_o person_n of_o a_o sinner_n and_o his_o become_a obedient_a to_o death_n even_o the_o death_n of_o the_o cross_n which_o be_v the_o punishment_n of_o the_o vile_a slave_n and_o the_o most_o heinous_a malefactor_n the_o son_n of_o god_n come_v down_o from_o heaven_n from_o the_o high_a pitch_n of_o glory_n and_o happiness_n into_o this_o low_a world_n this_o vale_n of_o tear_n and_o sink_v of_o sin_n and_o sorrow_n and_o be_v content_v himself_o to_o suffer_v to_o save_v we_o from_o eternal_a ruin_n to_o be_v the_o most_o despicable_a and_o the_o most_o miserable_a man_n that_o ever_o be_v that_o he_o may_v raise_v we_o to_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o advance_v we_o to_o a_o state_n of_o the_o great_a happiness_n that_o humane_a nature_n be_v capable_a of_o 3_o dly_z if_o we_o consider_v the_o easy_a and_o reasonable_a term_n upon_o which_o we_o may_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o this_o unspeakable_a benefit_n and_o that_o be_v by_o a_o constant_a and_o sincere_a and_o universal_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n which_o suppose_v repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n as_o the_o root_n and_o principle_n of_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o a_o good_a life_n that_o be_v by_o do_v that_o which_o best_o become_v we_o and_o which_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o the_o original_a frame_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o to_o the_o dictate_v of_o our_o reason_n and_o which_o set_v aside_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o reward_n be_v real_o best_a for_o our_o present_a benefit_n and_o advantage_n our_o comfort_n and_o happiness_n even_o in_o this_o world_n for_o god_n in_o give_v law_n to_o we_o have_v impose_v nothing_o upon_o we_o but_o what_o in_o all_o reason_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v our_o choice_n if_o he_o have_v not_o impose_v it_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v for_o our_o good_a and_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n necessary_a to_o make_v we_o capable_a of_o that_o happiness_n which_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o we_o and_o what_o can_v be_v more_o gracious_a than_o to_o make_v one_o benefit_n the_o condition_n of_o a_o great_a than_o to_o promise_v to_o make_v we_o happy_a for_o ever_o if_o we_o will_v but_o do_v that_o which_o upon_o all_o account_n be_v real_o best_o and_o most_o for_o our_o advantage_n in_o this_o present_a life_n three_o here_o be_v abundant_a encouragement_n give_v to_o our_o obedience_n we_o have_v the_o divine_a assistance_n promise_v to_o we_o to_o enable_v we_o to_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o most_o difficult_a part_n of_o our_o duty_n we_o have_v the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n to_o help_v our_o infirmity_n to_o excite_v we_o to_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o to_o help_v and_o strengthen_v we_o in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o for_o our_o further_a encouragement_n we_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o divine_a acceptance_n in_o case_n of_o our_o sincere_a obedience_n notwithstanding_o the_o manifold_a fail_n and_o imperfection_n of_o it_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o perfect_a righteousness_n and_o obedience_n and_o the_o meritorious_a suffering_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o though_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o that_o we_o can_v do_v
we_o be_v unprofitable_a servant_n and_o have_v do_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v our_o duty_n yet_o god_n be_v please_v to_o accept_v what_o we_o can_v do_v because_o it_o be_v sincere_a and_o to_o forgive_v the_o defect_n and_o imperfection_n of_o our_o obedience_n for_o his_o sake_n who_o fulfil_v all_o righteousness_n and_o beside_o all_o this_o we_o have_v the_o encouragement_n of_o a_o great_a and_o everlasting_a reward_n infinite_o beyond_o all_o proportion_n of_o any_o service_n and_o obedience_n that_o we_o can_v perform_v and_o if_o god_n be_v ready_a to_o assist_v and_o strengthen_v we_o in_o the_o do_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o be_v willing_a so_o gracious_o to_o accept_v and_o to_o reward_v at_o such_o a_o rate_n the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o endeavour_n to_o please_v he_o notwithstanding_o all_o the_o fail_n and_o imperfection_n of_o our_o best_a service_n and_o obedience_n what_o can_v we_o possible_o desire_v more_o for_o our_o encouragement_n to_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n and_o to_o be_v steadfast_a and_o unmoveable_a and_o abundant_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n four_o and_o last_o the_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v upon_o this_o argument_n may_v serve_v severe_o to_o rebuke_v the_o groundless_a presumption_n of_o those_o who_o rely_v with_o so_o much_o confidence_n upon_o chrst_n for_o eternal_a salvation_n without_o any_o conscience_n or_o care_n to_o keep_v his_o commandment_n as_o if_o salvation_n lie_v upon_o his_o hand_n and_o he_o know_v not_o how_o to_o dispose_v of_o it_o and_o be_v glad_a of_o any_o one_o that_o will_v come_v and_o take_v it_o off_o upon_o any_o term_n no_o he_o come_v to_o save_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n to_o redeem_v we_o from_o all_o iniquity_n and_o to_o purify_v to_o himself_o a_o peculiar_a people_n zealous_a of_o good_a work_n so_o that_o the_o salvation_n which_o he_o have_v purchase_v for_o we_o do_v necessary_o imply_v our_o forsake_v of_o our_o sin_n and_o return_v to_o god_n and_o our_o duty_n and_o his_o death_n and_o suffering_n be_v not_o more_o a_o argument_n of_o his_o great_a love_n to_o mankind_n than_o they_o be_v a_o demonstration_n of_o his_o perfect_a hatred_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o if_o we_o continue_v in_o the_o love_n and_o practice_n of_o sin_n we_o defeat_v the_o whole_a design_n of_o his_o come_n into_o the_o world_n and_o of_o all_o that_o he_o have_v do_v and_o suffer_v for_o we_o and_o the_o redemption_n which_o christ_n have_v wrought_v for_o we_o will_v not_o avail_v we_o in_o the_o least_o salvation_n be_v far_o from_o the_o wicked_a say_v david_n psal_n 119.155_o if_o we_o have_v be_v worker_n of_o iniquity_n the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n when_o he_o come_v to_o judge_v it_o will_v bid_v we_o to_o depart_v from_o he_o from_o all_o that_o have_v be_v say_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o it_o be_v the_o great_a presumption_n in_o the_o world_n for_o any_o man_n to_o hope_v to_o obtain_v eternal_a salvation_n by_o any_o device_n whatsoever_o or_o in_o the_o communion_n of_o any_o church_n whatsoever_o without_o obedience_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n for_o though_o our_o obedience_n can_v merit_v yet_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o qualify_v and_o dispose_v we_o for_o it_o though_o it_o do_v not_o make_v we_o strict_o worthy_a yet_o it_o make_v we_o meet_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o inheritance_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n sermon_n viii_o the_o authority_n of_o jesus_n christ_n with_o the_o commission_n and_o promise_n which_o he_o give_v to_o his_o apostle_n mat._n xxviii_o 18_o 19_o 20._o and_o jesus_n come_v and_o speak_v unto_o they_o say_v all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o i_o in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n go_v you_o therefore_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 and_o 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 have_v command_v you_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o even_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n these_o word_n be_v the_o last_o that_o our_o bless_a saviour_n speak_v to_o his_o apostle_n immediate_o before_o his_o ascension_n into_o heaven_n and_o there_o be_v these_o three_o thing_n contain_v in_o they_o v._n vol._n v._n i._o a_o declaration_n of_o his_o own_o authority_n all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o i_o both_o in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n ii_o a_o commission_n to_o his_o disciple_n ground_v upon_o that_o authority_n go_v you_o therefore_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 and_o 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 have_v command_v you_o iii_o a_o promise_n to_o encourage_v they_o in_o this_o work_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o even_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n 1._o here_o be_v our_o saviour_n declaration_n of_o his_o own_o authority_n all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o i_o in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n here_o be_v a_o unlimited_a power_n and_o authority_n give_v he_o over_o all_o creature_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n this_o the_o scripture_n tell_v we_o be_v confer_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o reward_n of_o his_o suffering_n phil._n 2.8_o 9_o 10._o he_o humble_v himself_o and_o become_v obedient_a unto_o death_n even_o the_o death_n of_o the_o cross_n wherefore_o god_n also_o have_v high_o exalt_v he_o and_o give_v he_o a_o name_n which_o be_v above_o every_o name_n that_o at_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n every_o knee_n shall_v bow_v of_o thing_n in_o heaven_n and_o thing_n in_o earth_n and_o thing_n under_o the_o earth_n that_o be_v that_o all_o creature_n angel_n and_o man_n and_o devil_n shall_v do_v homage_n and_o acknowledge_v subjection_n to_o he_o ii_o here_o be_v the_o commission_n he_o give_v to_o his_o apostle_n by_o virtue_n of_o this_o authority_n go_v you_o therefore_o and_o teach_v all_o nation_n the_o commission_n which_o he_o here_o give_v be_v found_v in_o the_o authority_n he_o have_v before_o receive_v have_v all_o power_n commit_v to_o he_o he_o constitute_v and_o appoint_v the_o apostle_n and_o their_o successor_n to_o manage_v the_o affair_n of_o this_o his_o spiritual_a kingdom_n upon_o earth_n and_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o same_o commission_n which_o st._n john_n mention_n in_o other_o word_n john_n 20.21_o as_o my_o father_n have_v send_v i_o even_o so_o send_v i_o you_o that_o be_v as_o my_o father_n commission_v i_o before_o so_o now_o have_v receive_v full_a authority_n from_o he_o i_o commission_n you_o now_o in_o this_o commission_n which_o our_o saviour_n give_v to_o his_o disciple_n i_o shall_v take_v notice_n first_o of_o the_o general_a import_n and_o design_n of_o it_o second_o a_o more_o particular_a declaration_n how_o they_o be_v to_o manage_v this_o design_n first_o the_o general_a import_n and_o design_n of_o this_o commission_n go_v you_o and_o teach_v all_o nation_n the_o word_n which_o we_o translate_v teach_v be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d disciple_n all_o nation_n endeavour_v to_o make_v all_o the_o world_n christian_n one_o will_v think_v here_o be_v a_o power_n plain_o enough_o give_v they_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o the_o gentile_n as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o jew_n which_o will_v more_o full_o appear_v if_o we_o compare_v this_o passage_n in_o st._n matthew_n with_o the_o other_o evangelist_n st._n mark_v oh_o 16.15_o have_v it_o go_v you_o into_o all_o the_o world_n and_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n from_o which_o text_n i_o suppose_v st._n francis_n think_v himself_o bind_v to_o preach_v to_o beast_n and_o bird_n and_o according_o do_v it_o very_o often_o and_o with_o wonderful_a success_n as_o they_o tell_v we_o in_o the_o legend_n of_o his_o life_n but_o to_o extend_v our_o saviour_n commission_n so_o far_o be_v want_n of_o common_a sense_n in_o which_o st._n francis_n though_o they_o tell_v we_o he_o have_v other_o gift_n and_o 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happiness_n by_o the_o free_a grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n to_o do_v any_o thing_n whereby_o they_o may_v forfeit_v their_o happiness_n or_o so_o much_o as_o to_o entertain_v a_o thought_n of_o offend_v that_o god_n to_o who_o they_o can_v but_o be_v sensible_a how_o infinite_o they_o be_v oblige_v in_o this_o imperfect_a state_n few_o man_n have_v so_o little_a goodness_n as_o to_o sin_v without_o a_o temptation_n but_o in_o that_o state_n where_o man_n be_v perfect_o good_a and_o can_v have_v no_o temptation_n to_o be_v otherwise_o it_o be_v not_o imaginable_a that_o they_o shall_v fall_v from_o that_o state_n 2._o as_o to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o damn_a that_o that_o likewise_o be_v immutable_a the_o scripture_n do_v seem_v plain_o enough_o to_o assert_v when_o it_o call_v it_o a_o everlasting_a destruction_n from_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o use_v such_o expression_n to_o set_v forth_o the_o continuance_n of_o their_o misery_n as_o signify_v the_o long_a and_o 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condition_n and_o their_o despair_n of_o better_v it_o make_v they_o mad_a and_o their_o mind_n be_v so_o distract_v by_o the_o wildness_n of_o their_o passion_n and_o their_o spirit_n so_o exasperate_v and_o set_v on_o fire_n by_o their_o own_o giddy_a motion_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o rest_n and_o silence_n in_o their_o soul_n not_o so_o much_o as_o the_o liberty_n of_o one_o calm_a and_o sedate_v thought_n or_o if_o at_o any_o time_n they_o reflect_v upon_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o sin_n and_o shall_v entertain_v any_o thought_n of_o return_v to_o god_n and_o their_o duty_n they_o be_v present_o check_v with_o this_o consideration_n that_o their_o case_n be_v determine_v that_o god_n be_v implacable_o offend_v with_o they_o and_o be_v inexorable_o and_o peremptory_o resolve_v to_o make_v they_o miserable_a for_o ever_o and_o during_o this_o persuasion_n no_o man_n can_v return_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o goodness_n without_o which_o there_o can_v be_v no_o repentance_n this_o consideration_n of_o the_o immutable_a state_n of_o man_n after_o this_o life_n shall_v engage_v we_o with_o all_o seriousness_n and_o diligence_n to_o endeavour_v to_o secure_v our_o future_a happiness_n god_n have_v set_v before_o we_o good_a and_o evil_n life_n and_o death_n and_o we_o may_v yet_o choose_v which_o we_o please_v but_o in_o the_o other_o world_n we_o must_v stand_v to_o that_o choice_n which_o we_o have_v make_v here_o and_o inherit_v the_o consequence_n of_o it_o by_o sin_n mankind_n be_v bring_v into_o a_o miserable_a state_n but_o our_o condition_n be_v not_o desperate_a and_o past_a remedy_n god_n have_v send_v his_o son_n to_o be_v a_o prince_n and_o a_o saviour_n to_o give_v repentance_n and_o remission_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o though_o our_o case_n be_v bad_a it_o need_v not_o continue_v so_o if_o it_o be_v not_o our_o own_o fault_n there_o be_v a_o possibility_n now_o of_o change_v our_o condition_n for_o the_o better_a and_o of_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o a_o perpetual_a happiness_n for_o ourselves_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n call_v upon_o we_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o assist_v we_o so_o that_o no_o man_n case_n be_v so_o bad_a but_o there_o be_v a_o possibility_n of_o better_v it_o if_o we_o be_v not_o want_v to_o ourselves_o and_o will_v make_v use_n of_o the_o grace_n which_o god_n offer_v who_o be_v never_o want_v to_o the_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o men._n under_o the_o influence_n and_o assistance_n of_o this_o grace_n those_o who_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n may_v pass_v from_o death_n to_o life_n may_v be_v turn_v from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v in_o this_o world_n there_o be_v a_o possibility_n of_o be_v translate_v from_o one_o state_n to_o another_o from_o the_o dominion_n of_o satan_n into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n dear_a son_n but_o if_o we_o neglect_v the_o opportunity_n of_o this_o life_n and_o stand_v out_o against_o the_o offer_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o mercy_n there_o will_v no_o overture_n be_v make_v to_o we_o in_o the_o other_o world_n after_o this_o life_n be_v end_v god_n will_v try_v we_o no_o more_o our_o final_a miscarriage_n in_o this_o world_n will_v prove_v fatal_a to_o we_o in_o the_o other_o and_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v permit_v to_o live_v over_o again_o to_o correct_v our_o error_n as_o the_o tree_n fall_v so_o it_o shall_v lie_v such_o a_o state_n as_o we_o be_v settle_v in_o when_o we_o go_v out_o of_o this_o world_n shall_v be_v fix_v in_o the_o other_o and_o there_o will_v be_v no_o possibility_n of_o change_v it_o we_o be_v yet_o in_o the_o hand_n of_o our_o own_o counsel_n and_o by_o god_n grace_n we_o may_v mould_n and_o fashion_v our_o own_o fortune_n but_o if_o we_o trifle_v away_o this_o advantage_n we_o shall_v fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n out_o of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o redemption_n god_n have_v yet_o leave_v heaven_n and_o hell_n to_o our_o choice_n and_o we_o have_v need_v to_o look_v about_o we_o and_o choose_v well_o who_o can_v choose_v but_o once_o for_o all_o and_o for_o ever_o there_o be_v yet_o a_o space_n and_o opportunity_n leave_v we_o of_o repentance_n but_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o step_v out_o of_o this_o life_n and_o be_v enter_v upon_o the_o other_o world_n our_o condition_n will_v be_v seal_v never_o to_o be_v reverse_v and_o because_o after_o this_o life_n there_o will_v be_v no_o further_a hope_n of_o mercy_n there_o will_v be_v no_o possibility_n of_o repentance_n this_o be_v the_o accept_a time_n this_o be_v the_o day_n of_o salvation_n therefore_o to_o day_n if_o you_o will_v hear_v his_o voice_n harden_v not_o your_o heart_n lest_o god_n swear_v in_o his_o wrath_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o enter_v into_o his_o rest_n
of_o temptation_n if_o we_o be_v not_o continual_o vigilant_a and_o upon_o our_o guard_n not_o confident_a in_o ourselves_o because_o we_o stand_v by_o faith_n and_o faith_n be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n therefore_o as_o the_o apostle_n infer_v we_o shall_v not_o be_v high-minded_a but_o fear_v man_n may_v have_v go_v a_o great_a way_n in_o christianity_n and_o have_v be_v sincere_a in_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o and_o yet_o afterward_o may_v apostatise_v in_o the_o foul_a manner_n not_o only_o fall_v off_o to_o a_o vicious_a life_n but_o even_o desert_a the_o profession_n of_o their_o religion_n i_o will_v to_o god_n the_o experience_n of_o the_o world_n do_v not_o give_v we_o too_o much_o reason_n to_o believe_v the_o possibility_n of_o this_o when_o we_o see_v so_o many_o revolt_n from_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o reform_a religion_n to_o the_o corruption_n and_o superstition_n of_o rome_n and_o other_o from_o a_o religious_a and_o sober_a life_n to_o plunge_v themselves_o into_o all_o kind_n of_o lewdness_n and_o debauchery_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v into_o atheism_n and_o infidelity_n can_v we_o doubt_v any_o long_a whether_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o christian_n to_o fall_v away_o i_o wish_v we_o be_v as_o certain_a of_o the_o possibility_n of_o their_o recovery_n as_o we_o be_v of_o their_o fall_v and_o that_o we_o have_v as_o many_o example_n of_o the_o one_o as_o of_o the_o other_o let_v we_o then_o be_v very_o vigilant_a over_o ourselves_o and_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n 2_o pet._n 3.17_o see_v we_o know_v these_o thing_n before_o beware_v lest_o we_o also_o be_v lead_v away_o with_o the_o error_n of_o the_o wicked_a fall_v from_o our_o own_o steadfastness_n 2_o dly_z this_o show_v we_o how_o great_a a_o aggravation_n it_o be_v for_o man_n to_o sin_n against_o the_o mean_n of_o knowledge_n which_o the_o gospel_n afford_v and_o the_o mercy_n which_o it_o offer_v unto_o they_o that_o which_o aggravate_v the_o sin_n of_o these_o person_n be_v that_o after_o they_o be_v once_o enlighten_v that_o be_v at_o their_o baptism_n be_v instruct_v in_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n the_o clear_a and_o most_o perfect_a revelation_n that_o ever_o be_v make_v of_o god_n will_n to_o mankind_n that_o after_o they_o be_v justify_v free_o by_o god_n grace_n and_o have_v receive_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v many_o other_o benefit_n confer_v upon_o they_o that_o after_o all_o this_o they_o shall_v fall_v off_o from_o this_o holy_a religion_n this_o be_v that_o which_o do_v so_o heighten_v and_o inflame_v their_o gild_n and_o make_v their_o case_n so_o near_o desperate_a the_o two_o great_a aggravation_n of_o crime_n be_v wilfulness_n and_o ingratitude_n if_o a_o crime_n be_v wilful_o commit_v and_o commit_v against_o one_o that_o have_v oblige_v we_o by_o the_o great_a favour_n and_o benefit_n now_o he_o commit_v a_o fault_n wilful_o who_o do_v it_o against_o the_o clear_a knowledge_n of_o his_o duty_n ignorance_n excuse_v for_o so_o far_o as_o a_o man_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o evil_n he_o do_v so_o far_o the_o action_n be_v involuntary_a but_o knowledge_n make_v it_o to_o be_v a_o wilful_a fault_n and_o this_o be_v a_o more_o peculiar_a aggravation_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o christian_n because_o god_n have_v afford_v they_o the_o great_a mean_n and_o opportunity_n of_o knowledge_n that_o revelation_n which_o god_n have_v make_v of_o his_o will_n to_o the_o world_n by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n be_v the_o clear_a light_n that_o ever_o mankind_n have_v and_o the_o mercy_n which_o the_o gospel_n bring_v be_v the_o great_a that_o ever_o be_v offer_v to_o the_o son_n of_o man_n the_o free_a pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o all_o our_o sin_n and_o the_o assistance_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o holy_a spirit_n to_o help_v the_o weakness_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o enable_v we_o to_o do_v what_o god_n require_v of_o we_o so_o that_o we_o who_o sin_n after_o baptism_n after_o the_o knowledge_n 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whosoever_o much_o be_v give_v of_o he_o shall_v much_o be_v require_v and_o to_o who_o man_n have_v commit_v much_o of_o he_o they_o will_v ask_v the_o more_o the_o mean_n and_o mercy_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v so_o many_o talent_n commit_v to_o our_o trust_n of_o the_o neglect_n whereof_o a_o severe_a account_n will_v be_v take_v at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n if_o we_o be_v wilful_a offender_n there_o be_v no_o excuse_n for_o we_o and_o little_a hope_n of_o pardon_n if_o we_o sin_v wilful_o after_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n say_v the_o apostle_n in_o this_o epistle_n there_o remain_v no_o more_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n i_o know_v the_o apostle_n speak_v this_o particular_o of_o the_o sin_n of_o apostasy_n from_o christianity_n but_o it_o be_v in_o proportion_n true_a of_o all_o other_o sin_n which_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v guilty_a of_o they_o who_o after_o they_o have_v entertain_v christianity_n and_o make_v some_o progress_n in_o it_o and_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n reform_v by_o it_o do_v again_o relapse_n into_o any_o vicious_a course_n do_v thereby_o render_v their_o condition_n very_o dangerous_a so_o st._n peter_n tell_v we_o 2_o pet._n 2.20_o 21._o if_o after_o they_o have_v escape_v the_o pollution_n of_o the_o world_n through_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n they_o be_v again_o entangle_v therein_o and_o overcome_v the_o latter_a end_n be_v worse_a with_o they_o than_o the_o beginning_n for_o it_o have_v be_v better_a for_o they_o not_o to_o have_v know_v the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n than_o after_o they_o have_v know_v it_o to_o turn_v from_o the_o holy_a commandment_n deliver_v unto_o they_o therefore_o we_o may_v do_v well_o to_o consider_v serious_o what_o we_o do_v when_o under_o the_o mean_n and_o opportunity_n of_o knowledge_n which_o the_o gospel_n afford_v we_o and_o the_o inestimable_a blessing_n and_o favour_n which_o it_o confer_v upon_o we_o we_o live_v in_o any_o wicked_a and_o vicious_a course_n our_o sin_n be_v not_o of_o a_o common_a rate_n when_o they_o have_v so_o much_o of_o wilfulness_n and_o unworthiness_n in_o they_o if_o man_n shall_v be_v severe_o punish_v for_o live_v against_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n what_o vengeance_n shall_v be_v pour_v on_o those_o who_o offend_v against_o the_o glorious_a light_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o be_v the_o condemnation_n that_o light_n be_v come_v etc._n etc._n 3_o dly_z the_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o those_o who_o upon_o every_o failing_n and_o infirmity_n be_v afraid_a they_o have_v commit_v the_o unpardonable_a sin_n and_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o they_o to_o be_v restore_v by_o repentance_n there_o be_v many_o who_o be_v of_o a_o dark_a and_o melancholy_a temper_n be_v apt_a to_o represent_v thing_n worse_o to_o themselves_o than_o there_o be_v reason_n for_o and_o do_v many_o time_n fancy_v themselves_o guilty_a of_o great_a crime_n in_o the_o do_n or_o neglect_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o in_o their_o nature_n be_v indifferent_a and_o be_v apt_a to_o aggravate_v and_o blow_v up_o every_o little_a infirmity_n into_o a_o unpardonable_a sin_n most_o man_n be_v apt_a to_o extenuate_v their_o sin_n and_o not_o to_o be_v sensible_a enough_o of_o the_o evil_a and_o heinousness_n of_o they_o but_o it_o be_v the_o peculiar_a infelicity_n of_o melancholy_a person_n to_o look_v upon_o their_o fault_n as_o black_a and_o great_a than_o in_o truth_n they_o be_v and_o whatsoever_o they_o hear_v and_o read_v in_o scripture_n that_o be_v speak_v against_o the_o gross_a and_o most_o enormous_a offender_n they_o apply_v to_o themselves_o and_o when_o they_o hear_v of_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o the_o sin_n unto_o death_n
or_o read_v this_o text_n which_o i_o be_o now_o treat_v of_o they_o present_o conclude_v that_o they_o be_v guilty_a of_o these_o sin_n and_o that_o this_o be_v a_o description_n of_o their_o case_n whereas_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v of_o that_o nature_n that_o probable_o none_o but_o those_o that_o see_v our_o saviour_n miracle_n be_v capable_a of_o commit_v it_o and_o except_v that_o there_o be_v no_o sin_n whatsoever_o that_o be_v unpardonable_a as_o for_o the_o sin_n unto_o death_n and_o that_o here_o speak_v of_o in_o the_o text_n i_o have_v show_v that_o they_o be_v a_o total_a apostasy_n from_o the_o christian_a religion_n more_o especial_o to_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n which_o these_o person_n i_o be_o speak_v of_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o imagine_v themselves_o guilty_a of_o and_o though_o great_a and_o notorious_a crime_n commit_v by_o christian_n may_v come_v near_o to_o this_o and_o it_o may_v be_v very_o hard_a for_o those_o who_o be_v guilty_a of_o they_o to_o recover_v themselves_o again_o to_o repentance_n yet_o to_o be_v sure_a for_o the_o common_a frailty_n and_o infirmity_n of_o human_a nature_n there_o be_v a_o open_a way_n of_o pardon_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o they_o be_v many_o time_n forgive_v to_o we_o upon_o a_o general_n repentance_n so_o that_o upon_o account_n of_o these_o which_o be_v common_o the_o case_n of_o the_o person_n i_o be_o speak_v of_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n of_o despair_n and_o though_o it_o be_v hard_o many_o time_n for_o such_o person_n to_o receive_v comfort_n yet_o it_o be_v easy_a to_o give_v it_o and_o that_o upon_o sure_a ground_n and_o as_o clear_a evidence_n of_o scripture_n as_o there_o be_v for_o any_o thing_n so_o that_o the_o first_o thing_n that_o such_o person_n who_o be_v so_o apt_a to_o judge_v thus_o hardly_o of_o themselves_o be_v to_o be_v convince_v of_o if_o possible_a be_v this_o that_o they_o ought_v rather_o to_o trust_v the_o judgement_n of_o other_o concern_v themselves_o than_o their_o own_o imagination_n which_o be_v so_o distemper_a that_o it_o can_v make_v a_o true_a representation_n of_o thing_n i_o know_v that_o where_o melancholy_a do_v mighty_o prevail_v it_o be_v hard_o to_o persuade_v people_n of_o this_o but_o till_o they_o be_v persuade_v of_o it_o i_o be_o sure_a all_o the_o reason_n in_o the_o world_n will_v signify_v nothing_o to_o they_o 4_o thly_a this_o shall_v make_v man_n afraid_a of_o great_a and_o presumptuous_a sin_n which_o come_v near_o apostasy_n from_o christianity_n such_o as_o deliberate_v murder_n adultery_n gross_a fraud_n and_o oppression_n or_o notorious_a and_o habitual_a intemperance_n for_o what_o great_a difference_n be_v there_o whether_o man_n renounce_v christianity_n or_o profess_v to_o believe_v it_o do_v in_o their_o work_n deny_v it_o some_o of_o these_o sin_n which_o i_o have_v mention_v particular_o murder_n and_o adultery_n be_v rank_v in_o the_o same_o degree_n with_o apostasy_n by_o the_o ancient_a church_n and_o so_o severe_a be_v the_o discipline_n of_o many_o church_n that_o person_n guilty_a of_o these_o crime_n be_v never_o admit_v to_o the_o peace_n and_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n again_o whatever_o testimony_n they_o give_v of_o their_o repentance_n i_o will_v not_o say_v but_o this_o be_v too_o rigorous_a but_o this_o show_v how_o inconsistent_a with_o christianity_n these_o crime_n and_o other_o of_o the_o like_a degree_n of_o heinousness_n be_v in_o those_o day_n think_v to_o be_v they_o do_v not_o indeed_o as_o tertullian_n tell_v we_o think_v such_o person_n absolute_o incapable_a of_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n but_o after_o such_o a_o fall_n so_o notorious_a a_o contradiction_n to_o their_o christian_a profession_n they_o think_v it_o unfit_a afterward_o that_o they_o shall_v ever_o be_v reckon_v in_o the_o number_n of_o christian_n 5_o thly_a it_o may_v be_v useful_a for_o we_o upon_o this_o occasion_n to_o reflect_v a_o liltle_a upon_o the_o ancient_a discipline_n of_o the_o church_n which_o in_o some_o place_n as_o i_o have_v tell_v you_o be_v so_o severe_a as_o in_o case_n of_o some_o great_a crime_n after_o baptism_n as_o apostasy_n to_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n murder_n and_o adultery_n never_o to_o admit_v those_o that_o be_v guilty_a of_o they_o to_o the_o peace_n and_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n but_o in_o all_o church_n be_v so_o strict_a as_o not_o to_o admit_v those_o who_o fall_v after_o baptism_n into_o great_a and_o notorious_a crime_n to_o reconciliation_n with_o the_o church_n but_o after_o a_o long_a and_o tedious_a course_n of_o penance_n after_o the_o great_a and_o most_o public_a testimony_n of_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n after_o long_o fast_v and_o tear_n and_o the_o great_a sign_n of_o humiliation_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v in_o case_n of_o the_o great_a offence_n they_o be_v seldom_o reconcile_v till_o they_o come_v to_o lie_v upon_o their_o deathbed_n and_o in_o case_n of_o other_o scandalous_a sin_n not_o till_o after_o the_o humiliation_n of_o many_o year_n this_o perhaps_o may_v be_v think_v too_o great_a severity_n but_o i_o be_o sure_a we_o be_v as_o much_o too_o remiss_a now_o as_o they_o be_v over_o rigorous_a then_o but_o be_v the_o ancient_a discipline_n of_o the_o church_n in_o any_o degree_n put_v in_o practice_n now_o what_o case_n will_v the_o generality_n of_o christian_n be_v in_o in_o what_o herd_n and_o shoal_n will_v man_n be_v drive_v out_o of_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v true_a the_o prodigious_a degeneracy_n and_o corruption_n of_o christian_n have_v long_o since_o break_v these_o bound_n and_o it_o be_v moral_o impossible_a to_o revive_v the_o strictness_n of_o the_o ancient_a discipline_n in_o any_o measure_n till_o the_o world_n grow_v better_o but_o yet_o we_o ought_v to_o reflect_v with_o shame_n and_o confusion_n of_o face_n upon_o the_o pure_a age_n of_o the_o church_n and_o sad_o to_o consider_v how_o few_o among_o we_o will_v in_o those_o day_n have_v be_v account_v christian_n and_o upon_o this_o consideration_n to_o be_v provoke_v to_o a_o emulation_n of_o those_o better_a time_n and_o to_o a_o reformation_n of_o those_o fault_n and_o miscarriage_n which_o in_o the_o best_a day_n of_o christianity_n be_v reckon_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o christian_a profession_n and_o to_o remember_v that_o though_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o now_o the_o same_o it_o be_v then_o yet_o the_o judgement_n and_o severity_n of_o god_n be_v and_o that_o those_o who_o live_v in_o any_o vicious_a course_n of_o life_n though_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o they_o shall_v be_v shut_v out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n we_o be_v sure_a that_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n will_v be_v according_a to_o truth_n against_o they_o which_o commit_v such_o thing_n 6_o thly_a and_o last_o the_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v shall_v confirm_v and_o establish_v we_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o our_o holy_a religion_n it_o be_v true_a we_o be_v not_o now_o in_o danger_n of_o apostatise_v from_o christianity_n to_o the_o heathen_a idolatry_n but_o we_o have_v too_o many_o sad_a example_n of_o those_o who_o apostatise_v from_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o they_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o in_o baptism_n to_o atheism_n and_o infidelity_n to_o all_o manner_n of_o impiety_n and_o lewdness_n there_o be_v many_o who_o daily_o fall_v off_o from_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o reform_a religion_n to_o the_o gross_a error_n and_o superstition_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n which_o in_o many_o thing_n do_v too_o near_o resemble_v the_o old_a pagan_a idolatry_n and_o what_o the_o apostle_n here_o say_v of_o the_o apostate_n of_o his_o time_n be_v proportionable_o true_a of_o those_o of_o our_o day_n that_o they_o who_o thus_o fall_v away_o it_o be_v extreme_o difficult_a to_o renew_v they_o again_o to_o repentance_n and_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v remember_v that_o the_o guilt_n of_o this_o kind_n of_o apostasy_n have_v drive_v some_o to_o despair_n as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o spira_n who_o for_o resist_v the_o light_n and_o conviction_n of_o his_o mind_n be_v cast_v into_o those_o agony_n and_o fill_v with_o such_o terror_n as_o if_o the_o very_a pain_n of_o hell_n have_v take_v hold_n on_o he_o and_o in_o that_o fearful_a despair_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o those_o horror_n he_o breathe_v out_o his_o soul_n let_v we_o then_o hold_v fast_o the_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n without_o waver_v and_o let_v we_o take_v heed_n how_o we_o contradict_v the_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n by_o any_o impiety_n and_o wickedness_n in_o our_o life_n remember_v that_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_n god_n i_o will_v conclude_v with_o the_o word_n