government_n of_o religion_n and_o direct_v by_o the_o law_n and_o rule_n of_o it_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v our_o continual_a care_n and_o endeavour_v to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o we_o shall_v take_v as_o much_o pain_n and_o be_v as_o hearty_o concern_v to_o be_v good_a man_n as_o the_o man_n of_o the_o world_n be_v to_o grow_v rich_a and_o great_a in_o this_o world_n nay_o so_o much_o more_o by_o how_o much_o it_o be_v a_o better_a and_o noble_a design_n to_o improve_v in_o grace_n and_o virtue_n than_o to_o prosper_v and_o thrive_v in_o our_o temporal_a estate_n and_o we_o do_v not_o in_o good_a earnest_n seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n if_o this_o be_v not_o our_o great_a study_n and_o endeavour_v to_o subdue_v our_o lust_n and_o govern_v our_o passion_n and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o reform_v whatever_o be_v amiss_o in_o the_o inward_a frame_n and_o temper_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o in_o our_o outward_a conversation_n and_o indeed_o nothing_o do_v require_v great_a diligence_n and_o attention_n and_o care_n than_o for_o a_o man_n to_o become_v true_o and_o thorough_o good_a to_o be_v meek_a and_o humble_a and_o patient_a and_o content_v and_o resign_v to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o every_o condition_n to_o be_v peaceable_a and_o charitable_a and_o placable_a and_o ready_a to_o forgive_v these_o be_v great_a and_o difficult_a thing_n and_o whatever_o we_o think_v not_o the_o work_n of_o a_o wish_n or_o the_o effect_n of_o a_o sudden_a resolution_n before_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n no_o nor_o the_o fruit_n of_o frequent_a and_o â—ervent_a prayer_n without_o the_o hearty_a concurrence_n of_o our_o own_o care_n and_o endeavour_n to_o render_v our_o life_n such_o as_o we_o pray_v god_n by_o his_o grace_n to_o assist_v and_o enable_v we_o to_o be_v three_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n do_v further_a imply_v zeal_n and_o earnestness_n in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o this_o design_n and_o this_o be_v a_o degree_n above_o diligence_n for_o zeal_n be_v a_o ardour_n and_o fervency_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o a_o thing_n for_o which_o we_o be_v great_o concern_v and_o which_o we_o vehement_o desire_v to_o obtain_v it_o be_v the_o hot_a and_o most_o intense_a degree_n of_o our_o affection_n towards_o any_o thing_n of_o our_o desire_n and_o love_n mix_v with_o anger_n at_o every_o thing_n that_o stand_v in_o our_o way_n and_o hinder_v we_o from_o obtain_v what_o we_o seek_v after_o such_o a_o heat_n as_o ambition_n do_v common_o inspire_v man_n withal_o in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o power_n and_o preferment_n such_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o temper_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o edge_n of_o our_o spirit_n in_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o do_v usual_o possess_v man_n in_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o it_o be_v a_o kingdom_n which_o we_o seek_v for_o and_o aspire_v after_o not_o like_o the_o unstable_a and_o totter_a kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n but_o a_o kingdom_n which_o can_v be_v shake_v as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o so_o that_o the_o greatness_n of_o the_o design_n and_o the_o excellency_n of_o what_o we_o seek_v after_o will_v justify_v and_o warrant_v the_o high_a degree_n of_o a_o discreet_a zeal_n and_o fervour_n in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o no_o wonder_n that_o the_o scripture_n in_o this_o matter_n use_v word_n that_o import_v the_o great_a vehemency_n and_o earnestness_n bid_v we_o to_o strive_v to_o enter_v in_o at_o the_o strait_a gate_n to_o labour_v and_o watch_v to_o run_v and_o wrestle_v and_o fight_v and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o make_v our_o call_v and_o election_n sure_a last_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n do_v imply_v patience_n and_o perseverance_n in_o our_o endeavour_n after_o they_o and_o that_o we_o never_o cease_v our_o pursuit_n of_o they_o till_o we_o have_v obtain_v they_o and_o this_o notwithstanding_o all_o the_o difficulty_n and_o discouragement_n the_o opposition_n and_o persecution_n that_o we_o meet_v with_o for_o righteousness_n sake_n for_o this_o we_o must_v expect_v and_o reckon_v upon_o beforehand_o to_o encounter_v many_o difficulty_n and_o find_v many_o discouragement_n in_o the_o way_n of_o religion_n for_o straight_o be_v the_o gate_n and_o narrow_a be_v the_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o life_n as_o our_o lord_n himself_o have_v tell_v we_o nay_o we_o must_v count_v to_o be_v grievous_o persecute_v for_o righteousness_n sake_n and_o if_o god_n see_v it_o good_a for_o we_o to_o pass_v through_o many_o tribulation_n before_o we_o shall_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v need_v to_o be_v arm_v with_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o patience_n and_o a_o very_a firm_a and_o obstinate_a resolution_n to_o enable_v we_o to_o bear_v up_o and_o to_o hold_v out_o against_o all_o these_o for_o this_o be_v a_o necessary_a qualification_n for_o our_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n so_o our_o lord_n have_v tell_v we_o mat._n 10._o 22._o he_o that_o endure_v to_o the_o end_n shall_v be_v save_v if_o we_o hope_v to_o receive_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n we_o must_v be_v faithful_a to_o the_o death_n rev._n 2._o 10._o and_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n st._n paul_n declare_v rom._n 2._o 7._o that_o they_o only_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o eternal_a life_n who_o by_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well_o do_v seek_v for_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o immortality_n you_o see_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o seek_v thâ—_n kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n it_o remain_v brief_o to_o be_v show_v in_o the_o second_o place_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o seek_v these_o first_o seek_v you_o fâ—rst_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n that_o be_v let_v this_o be_v your_o main_a and_o principal_a design_n so_o as_o to_o take_v place_n of_o all_o other_o in_o your_o esteem_n and_o affection_n in_o your_o aim_n and_o endeavour_v in_o comparison_n of_o this_o mind_n nothing_o else_o not_o the_o comfort_n and_o conveniency_n no_o not_o the_o necessary_n of_o life_n what_o you_o shall_v eat_v and_o what_o you_o shall_v drink_v and_o wherewithal_o you_o shall_v be_v clothe_v these_o you_o see_v our_o saviour_n instance_v in_o before_o the_o text_n as_o not_o to_o be_v regard_v and_o take_v care_n of_o when_o they_o come_v in_o competition_n with_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o elsewhere_o that_o not_o only_o none_o of_o the_o comfort_n and_o necessary_n of_o life_n be_v to_o be_v value_v against_o he_o and_o his_o religion_n but_o that_o even_o this_o temporal_a life_n itself_o as_o dear_a as_o it_o be_v to_o we_o be_v to_o be_v part_v withal_o and_o give_v up_o rather_o than_o to_o quit_v the_o profession_n of_o his_o truth_n and_o religion_n mat._n 10._o 37._o 38._o he_o that_o love_v father_n or_o mother_n more_o than_o i_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o i_o and_o he_o that_o love_v son_n or_o daughter_n more_o than_o i_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o i_o he_o instance_v in_o the_o near_a relation_n those_o towards_o who_o we_o have_v the_o most_o tender_a and_o relent_a affection_n and_o yet_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o truth_n and_o religion_n ought_v to_o take_v place_n of_o these_o nay_o even_o of_o life_n itself_o for_o so_o it_o follow_v and_o he_o that_o take_v not_o his_o cross_n and_o follow_v after_o i_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o i_o st._n luke_n express_v it_o more_o strong_o and_o vehement_o luke_n 14._o 26._o if_o any_o man_n come_v to_o i_o that_o be_v take_v upon_o he_o the_o profession_n of_o my_o religigion_n and_o hate_v not_o his_o father_n and_o mother_n and_o wife_n and_o child_n and_o brethren_n and_o sister_n yea_o and_o his_o own_o life_n also_o he_o can_v be_v my_o disciple_n when_o these_o come_v in_o competition_n with_o our_o religion_n and_o the_o great_a interest_n of_o our_o eternal_a salvation_n we_o be_v to_o regard_v and_o value_v they_o no_o more_o than_o if_o they_o be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o hatred_n but_o to_o set_v aside_o all_o consideration_n of_o affection_n to_o they_o so_o far_o as_o it_o will_v tempt_v we_o from_o constancy_n in_o our_o religion_n and_o the_o care_n of_o our_o soul_n so_o that_o when_o our_o saviour_n bid_v we_o first_o to_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n his_o meaning_n be_v thaâ—_n religion_n and_o the_o concernment_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o the_o eternal_a happiness_n of_o they_o in_o another_o world_n shall_v be_v our_o first_o and_o chief_a care_n and_o that_o all_o
thus_o with_o we_o as_o he_o threaten_v the_o people_n of_o issrâ—el_n isa_n 27._o 11._o when_o the_o bough_n be_v wither_v they_o shall_v be_v break_v off_o and_o set_v on_o fire_n for_o it_o be_v a_o people_n of_o no_o understanding_n therefore_o he_o that_o make_v they_o will_v not_o have_v mercy_n on_o they_o and_o he_o that_o form_v they_o will_v show_v they_o no_o favour_n and_o now_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o three_o point_n which_o i_o propose_v to_o handle_v from_o this_o text_n and_o the_o discourse_n which_o i_o have_v make_v upon_o they_o do_v all_o along_o apply_v itself_o by_o direct_v we_o how_o we_o ought_v to_o commit_v ourselves_o to_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n in_o all_o case_n of_o danger_n and_o suffer_v especial_o for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n viz._n in_o the_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o by_o a_o firm_a trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o the_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o the_o dâ—vine_a providence_n not_o doubt_v but_o that_o he_o who_o make_v we_o and_o know_v our_o frame_n will_v have_v a_o tender_a care_n of_o we_o and_o not_o suffer_v we_o to_o be_v tempt_v above_o what_o we_o be_v able_a and_o as_o to_o our_o present_a danger_n and_o that_o terrible_a storm_n which_o threaten_v we_o let_v we_o pray_v to_o god_n if_o it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o divert_v it_o but_o if_o otherwise_o he_o have_v determine_v to_o fit_a and_o prepare_v we_o for_o it_o and_o let_v we_o be_v fervent_a and_o earnest_a in_o our_o prayer_n to_o he_o not_o that_o he_o be_v move_v by_o our_o importunity_n but_o that_o we_o may_v thereby_o be_v qualify_v and_o make_v fit_a to_o receive_v the_o mercy_n which_o we_o beg_v of_o he_o and_o let_v we_o take_v this_o occasion_n to_o do_v that_o which_o we_o shall_v have_v do_v without_o it_o to_o breaâ—_n off_o our_o sin_n by_o repentance_n and_o to_o turn_v every_o one_o of_o we_o from_o the_o evil_n of_o our_o waysâ—_n that_o hereby_o we_o may_v render_v god_n propitious_a to_o we_o and_o put_v ourselves_o under_o the_o more_o immediate_a care_n and_o protection_n of_o his_o providence_n that_o we_o may_v prevent_v his_o judgement_n and_o turn_v away_o his_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n from_o we_o as_o he_o do_v once_o from_o a_o great_a and_o sinful_a city_n and_o people_n upon_o their_o sincere_a humiliation_n and_o repentance_n jonah_n 3._o 10._o where_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o people_n of_o niniveh_n that_o god_n see_v their_o work_n that_o they_o turn_v from_o their_o evil_a way_n and_o god_n repent_v of_o the_o evil_a that_o he_o have_v say_v that_o he_o will_v do_v unto_o they_o and_o he_o do_v it_o not_o above_o all_o let_v we_o be_v sincere_a in_o the_o profession_n of_o our_o religion_n and_o conscientious_a in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o nothing_o will_v bear_v we_o up_o under_o great_a trial_n and_o suffering_n like_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o men._n i_o will_v conclude_v this_o whole_a discourse_n with_o those_o apostolical_a blessing_n and_o prayer_n colos_n 1._o 10_o 11._o that_o you_o may_v walk_v worthy_a of_o the_o lord_n unto_o all_o please_a be_v fruitful_a in_o every_o good_a work_n strengthen_v with_o all_o might_n according_a to_o his_o glorious_a power_n unto_o all_o patience_n and_o long-suffering_a with_o joyfulness_n and_o 2_o thes_n 2._o 16_o 17._o now_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n himself_o and_o god_n even_o our_o father_n who_o have_v love_v we_o and_o have_v give_v we_o everlasting_a consolation_n and_o good_a hope_n through_o grace_n comfort_v your_o heart_n and_o establish_v you_o in_o every_o good_a word_n and_o work_v to_o he_o be_v glory_n and_o dominion_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n a_o sermon_n on_o john_n ix_o 4._o i_o must_v work_v the_o work_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o while_o it_o be_v day_n the_o night_n come_v when_o no_o man_n can_v work_v these_o word_n our_o bless_a saviour_n speak_v of_o himself_o whilst_o he_o be_v upon_o earth_n in_o which_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o he_o be_v send_v by_o god_n into_o the_o world_n and_o have_v a_o certain_a work_n and_o employment_n appoint_v he_o during_o he_o abide_v in_o it_o a_o great_a work_n indeed_o to_o instruct_v and_o reform_v and_o save_v mankind_n a_o work_n of_o great_a labour_n and_o pain_n and_o patience_n not_o to_o be_v do_v in_o a_o short_a time_n and_o yet_o the_o time_n for_o do_v it_o be_v not_o long_o after_o he_o come_v into_o the_o world_n it_o be_v a_o good_a while_n before_o he_o begin_v it_o and_o after_o he_o begin_v it_o the_o time_n of_o work_v be_v not_o long_o before_o the_o night_n come_v and_o put_v a_o end_n to_o it_o i_o must_v work_v the_o work_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o while_o it_o be_v day_n the_o night_n come_v when_o no_o man_n can_v work_v but_o this_o which_o our_o saviour_n here_o speak_v of_o himself_o and_o which_o proper_o belong_v to_o he_o and_o no_o other_o may_v yeâ—_n be_v accommodate_v to_o every_o man_n with_o some_o allowance_n for_o the_o difference_n and_o disproportion_n for_o though_o every_o man_n be_v not_o send_v by_o god_n into_o the_o world_n after_o so_o peculiar_a a_o manner_n and_o upon_o so_o particular_a and_o vast_a a_o design_n yet_o upon_o a_o general_a account_n every_o man_n be_v send_v by_o god_n into_o this_o world_n and_o have_v a_o work_n give_v he_o to_o do_v in_o it_o which_o he_o be_v concern_v vigorous_o to_o mind_n and_o to_o prosecute_v with_o all_o his_o may_v and_o though_o every_o man_n be_v not_o send_v to_o save_v the_o whole_a world_n as_o the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v yet_o every_o man_n be_v send_v by_o god_n into_o the_o world_n to_o work_v out_o his_o own_o salvation_n and_o to_o take_v care_n of_o that_o in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o then_o to_o promote_v the_o salvation_n of_o other_o as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v so_o that_o every_o one_o of_o we_o may_v in_o a_o very_a good_a sense_n accommodate_v these_o word_n of_o our_o saviour_n to_o himself_o i_o must_v work_v the_o work_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o while_o it_o be_v day_n the_o night_n come_v when_o no_o man_n can_v work_v i_o shall_v therefore_o at_o this_o time_n take_v the_o liberty_n to_o handle_v these_o word_n according_a to_o this_o moral_a accommodation_n of_o they_o and_o apply_v what_o our_o saviour_n here_o say_v of_o himself_o to_o every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n and_o this_o i_o shall_v do_v by_o show_v these_o three_o thing_n first_o that_o every_o man_n have_v a_o work_n assign_v he_o to_o do_v in_o this_o world_n by_o he_o that_o send_v he_o into_o it_o and_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n say_v as_o our_o bless_a saviour_n do_v of_o himself_o i_o must_v work_v the_o work_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o second_o that_o there_o be_v a_o certain_a and_o limit_a time_n for_o every_o man_n to_o do_v this_o work_n in_o while_o it_o be_v day_n three_o that_o after_o this_o season_n be_v expire_v theâ—e_n will_v be_v no_o further_o opportunity_n of_o work_v the_o night_n come_v when_o no_o man_n can_v work_v first_o every_o man_n have_v a_o work_n assign_v he_o to_o do_v in_o this_o world_n by_o he_o that_o send_v he_o into_o it_o and_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n say_v as_o our_o bless_a saviour_n do_v of_o himself_o i_o must_v work_v the_o work_n of_o he_o that_o â—ent_v i_o god_n who_o make_v man_n a_o reasonable_a creature_n and_o have_v endow_v he_o with_o faculty_n whereby_o he_o be_v capable_a of_o know_v and_o serve_v he_o have_v appoint_v he_o a_o work_n and_o service_n suitable_a to_o these_o faculty_n and_o have_v infuse_v a_o immortal_a soul_n into_o this_o earthy_a body_n have_v certain_o design_v he_o for_o a_o state_n beyond_o this_o life_n in_o which_o he_o shall_v be_v for_o ever_o happy_a or_o miserable_a according_a as_o he_o use_v and_o demean_v himself_o in_o this_o world_n so_o that_o the_o work_n which_o every_o one_o of_o we_o have_v to_o do_v in_o this_o world_n be_v to_o prepare_v and_o fit_v ourselves_o for_o that_o eternal_a duration_n which_o remain_v for_o we_o after_o death_n for_o the_o life_n which_o we_o live_v now_o in_o this_o world_n be_v a_o time_n of_o exercise_n a_o short_a state_n of_o probation_n and_o trial_n in_o order_n to_o a_o durable_a and_o endless_a state_n in_o which_o we_o shall_v be_v immutable_o â—ixt_v in_o another_o world_n this_o world_n into_o which_o we_o be_v now_o send_v for_o a_o little_a while_n be_v as_o it_o be_v god_n school_n in_o which_o immortal_a spirit_n clothe_v with_o flesh_n be_v train_v and_o breed_v up_o for_o eternity_n and_o therefore_o the_o best_a
because_o the_o pope_n it_o seem_v and_o no_o body_n else_o understand_v the_o true_a meaning_n of_o that_o council_n at_o least_o be_v think_v fit_a to_o declare_v it_o and_o therefore_o one_o may_v just_o wonder_v at_o the_o presumption_n of_o those_o who_o after_o this_o declaration_n of_o the_o council_n have_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o expound_v the_o catholic_n faith_n and_o to_o represent_v that_o religion_n to_o we_o as_o it_o be_v define_v in_o that_o council_n because_o if_o there_o be_v any_o controversy_n about_o the_o meaning_n of_o its_o definition_n as_o there_o have_v be_v a_o great_a many_o even_o betwixt_o those_o who_o be_v present_a at_o the_o council_n when_o those_o definition_n be_v make_v none_o but_o the_o pope_n himself_o can_v certain_o tell_v the_o meaning_n of_o they_o now_o in_o this_o creed_n of_o pope_n pius_n there_o be_v add_v to_o the_o ancient_a creed_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n twelve_o or_o thirteen_o new_a article_n as_o concern_v 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since_o there_o be_v so_o many_o different_a opinion_n and_o apprehension_n in_o the_o world_n about_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o every_o sect_n and_o party_n do_v with_o so_o much_o confidence_n pretend_v that_o they_o and_o they_o only_a be_v in_o the_o truth_n the_o great_a difficulty_n and_o question_n be_v by_o what_o mean_v man_n may_v be_v secure_v from_o dangerous_a error_n and_o mistake_v in_o religion_n for_o this_o end_n some_o have_v think_v it_o necessary_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o infallible_a church_n in_o the_o communion_n whereof_o every_o man_n may_v be_v secure_v from_o the_o danger_n of_o a_o wrong_a belief_n but_o if_o seem_v god_n have_v not_o think_v this_o necessary_a if_o he_o have_v he_o will_v have_v reveal_v this_o very_a thing_n more_o plain_o than_o any_o particular_a point_n of_o faith_n whatsoever_o he_o will_v have_v tell_v we_o express_o and_o in_o the_o plain_a term_n that_o he_o have_v appoint_v a_o infallible_a guide_n and_o judge_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n and_o will_v likewise_o have_v tell_v we_o as_o plain_o who_o he_o be_v and_o where_o we_o may_v find_v he_o and_o have_v recourse_n to_o he_o upon_o all_o occasion_n because_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o faith_n depend_v upon_o he_o we_o can_v not_o be_v safe_a from_o mistake_n in_o particular_a point_n without_o so_o plain_a and_o clear_v a_o revelation_n of_o this_o infallible_a judge_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o mistake_n about_o he_o nor_o can_v there_o be_v a_o end_n of_o any_o other_o controversy_n in_o religion_n unless_o this_o infallible_a judge_n both_o that_o there_o be_v one_o and_o who_o he_o be_v be_v out_o of_o controversy_n but_o neither_o of_o these_o be_v so_o it_o be_v not_o plain_a from_o scripture_n that_o there_o be_v a_o infallible_a judge_n and_o guide_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n much_o less_o be_v it_o plain_a who_o he_o be_v and_o therefore_o we_o may_v certain_o conclude_v that_o god_n have_v not_o think_v it_o necessary_a that_o 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that_o can_v deny_v themselves_o to_o dine_v with_o he_o in_o hope_n to_o make_v better_a meal_n upon_o his_o estate_n when_o he_o be_v go_v and_o if_o he_o be_v so_o penurious_a to_o himself_o the_o necessity_n of_o other_o be_v not_o like_a to_o mouâ—_n he_o to_o be_v liberal_a i_o can_v but_o imagine_v one_o occasion_n that_o can_v tempt_v such_o a_o man_n to_o lay_v out_o what_o he_o have_v namely_o when_o one_o part_n of_o his_o estate_n be_v in_o danger_n to_o spend_v the_o other_o to_o secure_v it_o and_o yet_o even_o in_o that_o case_n if_o his_o cause_n be_v not_o very_o clear_a and_o good_a he_o will_v go_v nigh_o to_o lose_v it_o use_v it_o as_o he_o do_v himself_o that_o be_v by_o starve_v it_o and_o if_o this_o be_v all_o than_o a_o man_n have_v as_o good_a be_v without_o a_o estate_n and_o save_v himself_o the_o trouble_n either_o of_o get_v it_o or_o secure_v it_o for_o if_o it_o be_v all_o go_v he_o may_v live_v as_o well_o as_o he_o do_v and_o that_o with_o half_a the_o care_n and_o pain_n second_o the_o happiness_n of_o this_o world_n consist_v in_o a_o state_n of_o freedom_n from_o evil._n now_o the_o great_a evil_n that_o man_n be_v liable_a to_o in_o this_o world_n be_v such_o as_o be_v incident_a to_o they_o either_o in_o the_o course_n of_o their_o life_n or_o at_o the_o time_n of_o their_o death_n and_o riches_n do_v not_o contribute_v to_o man_n happiness_n by_o free_v they_o from_o either_o of_o these_o i_o shall_v speak_v to_o these_o several_o 1._o not_o from_o the_o evil_n which_o be_v incident_a to_o man_n in_o the_o course_n of_o their_o life_n these_o be_v of_o two_o kind_n inward_a or_o outward_a 1._o inward_a evil_n by_o which_o i_o mean_v those_o of_o the_o mind_n and_o our_o great_a trouble_n be_v from_o within_o from_o the_o anxiety_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o the_o guilt_n of_o our_o conscience_n from_o the_o vicious_a inclination_n of_o our_o will_n and_o the_o irregularity_n and_o disorder_n of_o our_o passion_n now_o 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virtuous_a man_n in_o a_o mean_a fortune_n how_o quiet_a and_o easy_a their_o mind_n have_v be_v how_o much_o full_a of_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n than_o the_o heart_n of_o any_o covetous_a worldling_n ever_o be_v in_o his_o most_o prosperous_a estate_n and_o when_o his_o corn_n and_o wine_n and_o oil_n abound_v do_v we_o i_o say_v but_o know_v this_o we_o shall_v not_o envy_v the_o man_n of_o mighty_a fortune_n nam_fw-la neque_fw-la divitibus_fw-la contingunt_fw-la gaudia_fw-la solis_fw-la rich_a man_n be_v not_o the_o only_a happy_a people_n in_o the_o world_n if_o they_o be_v not_o good_a as_o well_o as_o rich_a happiness_n be_v a_o great_a stranger_n to_o their_o dwelling_n than_o to_o the_o cottage_n of_o poor_a men._n now_o riches_n be_v so_o far_o from_o help_v to_o make_v man_n good_a that_o they_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a temptation_n to_o they_o in_o the_o world_n to_o be_v otherwise_o which_o it_o the_o reason_n why_o our_o saviour_n say_v it_o be_v so_o very_o hard_o for_o a_o rich_a man_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n because_o consider_v the_o powerful_a and_o almost_o irresistible_a temptation_n of_o a_o great_a estate_n and_o the_o impotency_n and_o weakness_n of_o humane_a nature_n to_o govern_v itself_o in_o a_o plentiful_a fortune_n it_o be_v very_o hard_a for_o a_o rich_a man_n to_o be_v so_o good_a as_o he_o ought_v it_o require_v a_o great_a force_n and_o firmness_n of_o resolution_n a_o very_a solid_a and_o vigorous_a constitution_n of_o mind_n to_o bear_v a_o great_a fortune_n and_o not_o to_o be_v corrupt_v by_o it_o and_o a_o man_n have_v never_o more_o reason_n to_o implore_v god_n gracious_a help_n and_o assistance_n and_o to_o consult_v his_o own_o best_a and_o cool_v thought_n to_o know_v what_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v and_o how_o he_o ought_v to_o demean_v himself_o than_o when_o the_o outward_a blessing_n of_o this_o life_n flow_v in_o amain_o upon_o he_o felicitate_a corrumpimur_fw-la nothing_o soon_o debauch_v man_n than_o prosperity_n and_o he_o be_v a_o very_a happy_a man_n who_o wealth_n and_o a_o good_a fortune_n do_v not_o make_v licentious_a and_o dissolute_a because_o these_o tempt_v man_n with_o the_o power_n and_o opportunity_n to_o do_v all_o the_o ill_a that_o their_o wickeds_n heart_n can_v design_n or_o desire_v the_o temptation_n of_o riches_n and_o the_o power_n that_o go_v along_o with_o they_o be_v so_o forcible_a and_o prevalent_a that_o the_o devil_n who_o be_v a_o sagacious_a spirit_n and_o have_v great_a and_o long_a experience_n in_o this_o kind_n when_o he_o be_v make_v the_o experiment_n whether_o christ_n be_v a_o mere_a man_n or_o the_o son_n of_o god_n reserve_v this_o for_o his_o last_o temptation_n resolve_v if_o that_o will_v not_o do_v to_o try_v he_o no_o far_o after_o he_o have_v assault_v he_o in_o several_a kind_n he_o represent_v to_o he_o at_o last_o that_o which_o be_v sufficient_a to_o have_v surfeit_v two_o of_o the_o most_o insatiable_a desire_n of_o humane_a nature_n ambition_n and_o covetousness_n even_o all_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o in_o a_o moment_n or_o point_n of_o time_n he_o bring_v all_o the_o ray_n of_o this_o glory_n to_o one_o point_n that_o the_o temptation_n may_v kindle_v and_o take_v hold_v the_o soon_o and_o say_v to_o he_o all_o this_o will_v i_o give_v thou_o if_o thou_o will_v fall_v down_o and_o worship_v i_o he_o suppose_v with_o great_a probability_n that_o if_o he_o be_v but_o a_o mere_a man_n the_o strong_a and_o most_o resolve_a mind_n will_v bend_v and_o yield_v to_o so_o dazzle_v a_o temptation_n as_o this_o but_o when_o he_o see_v that_o this_o temptation_n be_v reject_v he_o find_v himself_o baffle_v and_o give_v he_o over_o since_o this_o do_v not_o move_v he_o he_o conclude_v now_o that_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n indeed_o and_o that_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o tempt_v he_o any_o far_o from_o all_o this_o it_o appear_v that_o riches_n be_v so_o far_o from_o make_v man_n virtuous_a that_o nothing_o be_v more_o dangerous_a to_o virtue_n than_o a_o full_a condition_n if_o man_n have_v not_o a_o great_a degree_n of_o grace_n as_o well_o as_o discretion_n to_o manage_v it_o solomon_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o prosperity_n of_o fool_n destroy_v they_o and_o yet_o how_o do_v most_o of_o we_o court_n this_o temptation_n and_o be_v forward_o to_o thrust_v and_o venture_v ourselves_o upon_o it_o there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o other_o thing_n in_o which_o most_o man_n make_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o themselves_o and_o will_v ready_o acknowledge_v that_o they_o be_v altogether_o unfit_a for_o they_o every_o man_n will_v not_o take_v upon_o he_o to_o be_v a_o physician_n or_o a_o lawyer_n to_o prescribe_v medicine_n in_o dangerous_a case_n and_o to_o give_v counsel_n to_o man_n in_o knotty_a and_o difficult_a point_n about_o their_o estate_n but_o every_o man_n think_v himself_o fit_a enough_o to_o be_v rich_a and_o sufficient_o qualify_v to_o manage_v a_o great_a estate_n if_o he_o can_v but_o get_v it_o when_o perhaps_o there_o be_v few_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n which_o man_n be_v more_o insufficient_a for_o than_o to_o wield_v and_o govern_v a_o great_a fortune_n nor_o wherein_o there_o be_v great_a danger_n and_o miscarriage_n it_o be_v not_o every_o body_n talon_n to_o be_v wealthy_a and_o wise_a rich_a and_o innocent_a 2._o as_o for_o the_o outward_a evil_n of_o this_o life_n such_o as_o want_v and_o contempt_n bodily_a pain_n and_o disease_n unhappiness_n in_o friend_n and_o relation_n a_o great_a estate_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n a_o sufficient_a security_n or_o remedy_n to_o a_o covetous_a man_n against_o these_o 1._o as_o for_o want_v and_o sure_o
other_o thing_n shall_v be_v make_v subordinate_a and_o subservient_fw-fr to_o this_o great_a design_n and_o be_v no_o further_o mind_v by_o we_o than_o they_o real_o be_v so_o for_o that_o which_o be_v our_o great_a end_n will_v subdue_v all_o other_o thing_n and_o bring_v they_o into_o subjection_n to_o it_o and_o will_v reject_v they_o and_o throw_v they_o aside_o if_o they_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o it_o if_o heaven_n be_v our_o utmost_a aim_n and_o in_o order_n to_o that_o it_o be_v our_o great_a study_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v righteous_a and_o holy_a this_o resolution_n and_o design_n sincere_o entertain_v will_v over-rule_v all_o other_o consideration_n and_o make_v all_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n to_o stoop_v and_o give_v way_n to_o that_o which_o be_v our_o chief_a end_n the_o eternal_a happiness_n and_o salvation_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o thus_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o second_o thing_n i_o propose_v namely_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o what_o by_o seek_v they_o first_o i_o proceed_v in_o the_o three_o place_n to_o lay_v down_o some_o plain_a rule_n for_o our_o direction_n and_o furtherance_n in_o seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o righteousness_n that_o be_v in_o the_o great_a business_n of_o religion_n first_o let_v we_o always_o live_v under_o a_o lively_a and_o powerful_a sense_n of_o another_o world_n that_o we_o be_v place_v here_o in_o this_o world_n but_o for_o a_o little_a while_n and_o that_o whole_o in_o order_n to_o our_o preparation_n for_o a_o better_a and_o a_o happy_a life_n let_v this_o thought_n be_v often_o in_o our_o mind_n that_o eternity_n be_v the_o most_o considerable_a duration_n and_o the_o next_o world_n the_o place_n of_o our_o everlasting_a abode_n where_o we_o must_v dwell_v and_o continue_v for_o ever_o and_o therefore_o our_o present_a state_n be_v but_o of_o little_a moment_n and_o consideration_n to_o we_o but_o only_o in_o order_n to_o our_o future_a and_o everlasting_a condition_n we_o may_v please_v ourselves_o here_o for_o a_o little_a while_n with_o toy_n and_o trifle_n with_o dream_n and_o shadow_n of_o pleasure_n and_o happiness_n and_o may_v be_v exercise_v with_o some_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n for_o a_o short_a space_n for_o a_o moment_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o our_o light_a affliction_n which_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n and_o so_o indeed_o it_o be_v compare_v with_o all_o eternity_n but_o the_o substantial_a and_o durable_a happiness_n or_o misery_n remain_v for_o man_n in_o the_o other_o world_n and_o will_v certain_o be_v their_o portion_n according_a as_o they_o have_v demean_v themselves_o in_o this_o world_n now_o the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o this_o can_v fail_v to_o put_v we_o upon_o vigorous_a preparation_n for_o another_o world_n and_o to_o make_v we_o whole_o intent_n upon_o our_o eternal_a concernment_n and_o to_o resolve_v whatever_o become_v of_o we_o in_o this_o world_n to_o take_v effectual_a care_n that_o we_o may_v be_v happy_a for_o ever_o he_o that_o firm_o believe_v the_o immortality_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o a_o life_n after_o death_n which_o will_v never_o have_v a_o end_n must_v needs_o take_v into_o consideration_n his_o whole_a duration_n and_o bend_v all_o his_o care_n and_o thought_n how_o he_o may_v avoid_v the_o great_a and_o most_o last_a misery_n and_o secure_a to_o himself_o a_o immortality_n of_o bliss_n and_o happiness_n second_o let_v we_o be_v always_o under_o a_o conviction_n of_o the_o absolute_a and_o indispensable_a necessity_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n as_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v attain_v and_o that_o holiness_n and_o happiness_n be_v not_o to_o be_v separate_v the_o one_o be_v a_o necessary_a condition_n and_o qualification_n for_o the_o other_o and_o consequent_o that_o it_o be_v the_o vain_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n for_o any_o man_n to_o hope_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n without_o endeavour_v after_o his_o righteousness_n there_o be_v so_o strong_a a_o connexion_n between_o they_o that_o a_o man_n may_v as_o reasonable_o expect_v to_o be_v well_o and_o at_o ease_n without_o health_n as_o to_o be_v happy_a without_o holiness_n for_o this_o make_v we_o like_a to_o god_n and_o our_o likeness_n and_o conformity_n to_o god_n be_v that_o alone_a which_o can_v make_v we_o capable_a of_o the_o bless_a sight_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n we_o must_v be_v partaker_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n in_o order_n to_o our_o participation_n of_o the_o divine_a blessedness_n and_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o will_v effectual_o engage_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n without_o which_o we_o shall_v never_o enter_v into_o his_o kingdom_n and_o to_o follow_v holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n three_o let_v we_o always_o remember_v that_o righteousness_n be_v of_o a_o great_a extent_n and_o comprehend_v in_o it_o all_o goodness_n it_o take_v in_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o of_o they_o it_o be_v a_o complication_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o virtue_n of_o all_o the_o part_n and_o ingredient_n of_o all_o the_o duty_n and_o office_n of_o a_o good_a man._n to_o denominate_v a_o man_n righteous_a all_o cause_n must_v concur_v all_o the_o essential_a principle_n and_o part_n of_o religion_n and_o goodness_n must_v meet_v together_o knowledge_n and_o practice_n faith_n and_o good_a work_n right_a opinion_n and_o real_a virtue_n a_o orthodox_n profession_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n abstain_v from_o sin_n and_o do_v of_o righteousness_n purity_n of_o heart_n and_o unspotted_a manner_n godliness_n and_o honesty_n the_o bridle_v of_o our_o tongue_n and_o the_o government_n of_o our_o passion_n and_o above_o all_o thing_n charity_n which_o be_v the_o band_n of_o perfection_n for_o righteousness_n be_v our_o conformity_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o unrighteousness_n and_o sin_n be_v the_o transgression_n of_o it_o now_o this_o if_o it_o be_v real_a and_o sincere_a will_v be_v uniform_a and_o universal_a equal_o respect_v all_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o every_o part_n of_o our_o know_a duty_n and_o will_v not_o content_v itself_o with_o a_o especial_a regard_n to_o one_o or_o two_o precept_n of_o the_o law_n though_o never_o so_o considerable_a and_o then_o allow_v itself_o in_o the_o neglect_n and_o violation_n of_o the_o rest_n no_o nor_o with_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o one_o table_n of_o the_o law_n if_o it_o overlook_v the_o other_o no_o nor_o with_o obedience_n to_o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n one_o only_o except_v st._n james_n have_v put_v this_o very_a case_n and_o determine_v it_o that_o he_o that_o shall_v keep_v the_o whole_a law_n save_v only_o that_o he_o offend_v in_o one_o point_n be_v guilty_a of_o all_o that_o be_v he_o be_v not_o sincere_a in_o his_o obedience_n to_o the_o rest_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o seek_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n our_o righteousness_n must_v be_v universal_a as_o he_o that_o have_v call_v we_o be_v holy_a so_o must_v we_o be_v holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n in_o the_o tenor_n of_o our_o action_n and_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n and_o any_o one_o reign_v sin_n and_o vice_n any_o gross_a and_o notorious_a defect_n in_o the_o virtue_n of_o a_o good_a life_n will_v spoil_v all_o our_o righteousness_n and_o will_v effectual_o shut_v we_o out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n four_o let_v we_o wise_o subordinate_a the_o several_a part_n and_o duty_n of_o religion_n to_o one_o another_o according_a to_o the_o intrinsical_a worth_n and_o value_n of_o they_o that_o so_o we_o may_v mind_v every_o part_n of_o religion_n in_o its_o due_a place_n and_o according_a to_o the_o true_a nature_n and_o importance_n of_o it_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n be_v in_o order_n to_o practice_n and_o a_o good_a life_n and_o signify_v nothing_o unless_o they_o produce_v that_o the_o mean_n of_o religion_n such_o as_o prayer_n and_o fast_v diligent_a read_n and_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n reverent_a and_o devout_a receive_v of_o the_o bless_a sacrament_n be_v of_o less_o account_n and_o value_n than_o that_o which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o these_o which_o be_v to_o make_v we_o inward_o and_o real_o good_a and_o fruitful_a in_o all_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n which_o by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v to_o the_o praise_n and_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o the_o mean_n of_o religion_n which_o i_o have_v mention_v be_v to_o be_v regard_v and_o use_v by_o we_o in_o order_n to_o the_o attain_n of_o these_o end_n without_o which_o they_o be_v mere_a formalility_n and_o hypocrisy_n and_o instead_o of_o find_v acceptance_n with_o god_n they_o be_v a_o
matter_n have_v be_v right_o state_v than_o religion_n and_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v the_o first_o principle_n and_o foundation_n of_o true_a wisdom_n and_o that_o which_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v and_o take_v along_o with_o we_o in_o all_o the_o design_n and_o action_n of_o our_o life_n and_o all_o wisdom_n which_o do_v not_o begin_v here_o be_v preposterous_a and_o will_v prove_v folly_n in_o the_o issue_n second_o as_o religion_n be_v the_o begin_n of_o wisdom_n so_o it_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o it_o it_o be_v the_o high_a point_n of_o wisdom_n in_o which_o we_o can_v be_v instruct_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v solomon_n prov._n 15._o 33._o be_v the_o instruction_n of_o wisdom_n a_o good_a understanding_n say_v david_n psal_n 111._o 10._o have_v all_o they_o that_o do_v his_o commandment_n the_o practice_n of_o religion_n be_v the_o perfection_n of_o wisdom_n and_o he_o understand_v himself_o best_a who_o live_v most_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o this_o i_o may_v show_v by_o instance_v in_o particular_a virtue_n the_o practice_n whereof_o be_v much_o wise_a and_o every_o way_n more_o for_o our_o interest_n than_o the_o contrary_a vice_n but_o this_o be_v too_o large_a a_o argument_n to_o engage_v in_o and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v content_v myself_o at_o present_a brief_o to_o show_v that_o the_o chief_a character_n and_o property_n of_o wisdom_n do_v all_o meet_v in_o religion_n and_o agree_v to_o it_o the_o first_o point_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o understand_v our_o true_a interest_n and_o to_o be_v right_a in_o our_o main_a end_n and_o in_o this_o religion_n will_v best_o instruct_v and_o direct_v we_o and_o if_o we_o be_v right_a in_o our_o main_a end_n and_o true_a to_o the_o interest_n of_o it_o we_o can_v miscarry_v but_o if_o a_o man_n mistake_v in_o this_o he_o err_v fatal_o and_o his_o whole_a life_n be_v vanity_n and_o folly_n another_o property_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o be_v steady_a and_o vigorous_a in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o our_o main_a end_n to_o oblige_v we_o hereto_o religion_n give_v we_o the_o most_o powerful_a argument_n the_o glorious_a happiness_n and_o the_o dismal_a misery_n of_o another_o world_n the_o next_o point_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o make_v all_o thing_n stoop_v and_o become_v subservient_fw-fr to_o our_o main_n end_n and_o wherever_o religion_n bear_v sway_v it_o will_v make_v all_o other_o thing_n subordinate_a to_o the_o salvation_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o the_o interest_n of_o our_o everlasting_a happiness_n as_o the_o man_n of_o this_o world_n make_v every_o thing_n to_o submit_v and_o give_v way_n to_o their_o covetous_a and_o ambitious_a and_o sensual_a design_n another_o part_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o consider_v the_o future_a and_o to_o look_v to_o the_o last_o end_n and_o issue_n of_o thing_n it_o be_v a_o common_a folly_n among_o man_n to_o be_v so_o intent_n upon_o the_o present_a as_o to_o have_v little_a or_o no_o regard_n to_o the_o future_a to_o what_o will_v be_v hereafter_o man_n design_n and_o labour_n for_o this_o present_a life_n and_o their_o short_a continuance_n here_o in_o this_o world_n without_o take_v into_o serious_a consideration_n their_o main_a duration_n and_o their_o eternal_a abide_v in_o another_o world_n but_o religion_n give_v we_o a_o clear_a prospect_n of_o a_o life_n after_o death_n and_o overlook_v time_n and_o make_v eternity_n always_o present_a to_o we_o and_o mind_n we_o of_o make_v timely_a provision_n and_o preparation_n for_o it_o it_o take_v into_o consideration_n our_o whole_a duration_n and_o inspire_v we_o with_o wisdom_n to_o look_v to_o the_o end_n of_o thing_n and_o to_o what_o will_v be_v hereafter_o as_o well_o as_o to_o what_o be_v present_a it_o be_v likewise_o a_o great_a property_n of_o wisdom_n to_o secure_v the_o main_a chance_n and_o to_o run_v no_o hazard_n in_o that_o and_o this_o religion_n direct_v we_o to_o take_v care_n of_o because_o the_o neglect_n of_o it_o will_v prove_v fatal_a another_o mark_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o lay_v hold_n of_o opportunity_n those_o especial_o which_o when_o they_o be_v once_o past_a will_v never_o return_v again_o there_o be_v some_o season_n wherein_o great_a thing_n may_v be_v do_v which_o if_o they_o be_v let_v slip_n be_v never_o to_o be_v retrieve_v a_o wise_a man_n will_v lay_v hold_n of_o these_o and_o improve_v they_o and_o religion_n inculcate_n this_o principle_n of_o wisdom_n upon_o we_o that_o this_o life_n be_v the_o opportunity_n of_o do_v great_a thing_n for_o ourselves_o and_o of_o make_v ourselves_o for_o ever_o this_o very_a day_n and_o hour_n may_v for_o aught_o we_o know_v be_v the_o last_o and_o only_a opportunity_n of_o repentance_n and_o make_v our_o peace_n with_o god_n therefore_o to_o day_n whilst_o it_o be_v call_v to_o day_n let_v we_o set_v about_o this_o necessary_a work_n lest_o any_o of_o we_o be_v harden_v through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n to_o morrow_n it_o may_v be_v too_o late_o to_o begin_v it_o and_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n may_v cut_v we_o off_o whilst_o we_o be_v wilful_o delay_v it_o and_o the_o opportunity_n of_o save_v our_o immortal_a soul_n may_v vanish_v and_o be_v for_o ever_o hide_v from_o our_o eye_n the_o next_o property_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o foresee_v danger_n and_o to_o take_v timely_a care_n to_o prevent_v they_o the_o prudent_a man_n say_v solomon_n forsee_v the_o evil_a and_o hide_v himself_o that_o be_v shelter_n and_o secure_v himself_o against_o it_o but_o the_o simple_a pass_n on_o and_o be_v punish_v that_o be_v the_o evil_a overtake_v they_o and_o their_o folly_n be_v punish_v in_o their_o fatal_a ruin_n now_o the_o great_a danger_n be_v from_o the_o great_a power_n even_o from_o he_o who_o be_v able_a to_o save_v and_o to_o destroy_v i_o will_v tell_v you_o say_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n who_o you_o shall_v fear_v fear_v he_o who_o after_o he_o have_v kill_v can_v destroy_v both_o body_n and_o soul_n in_o hell_n again_o another_o main_a point_n of_o wisdom_n be_v to_o do_v as_o little_a as_o we_o can_v to_o be_v repent_v of_o trust_v rather_o to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o prevention_n than_o to_o that_o of_o remedy_n religion_n first_o teach_v man_n innocency_n and_o not_o to_o offend_v but_o in_o case_n we_o do_v as_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o it_o then_o direct_v we_o to_o repentance_n as_o the_o only_a remedy_n but_o this_o certain_o be_v folly_n to_o sin_n in_o hope_n of_o repentance_n that_o be_v first_o to_o make_v work_n for_o repentance_n and_o then_o run_v the_o hazard_n of_o it_o for_o we_o may_v certain_o sin_n but_o it_o be_v not_o certain_a that_o we_o shall_v repent_v and_o if_o it_o be_v yet_o it_o be_v great_a folly_n to_o lay_v in_o before_o hand_n and_o to_o make_v work_n for_o trouble_n ne_fw-la tu_fw-la stultus_fw-la homuncio_fw-la es_fw-la qui_fw-la malis_fw-la veniam_fw-la precari_fw-la quam_fw-la non_fw-la peccare_fw-la be_v a_o wise_a say_v of_o old_a cato_n thou_o be_v say_v he_o a_o silly_a man_n indeed_o who_o choose_v rather_o to_o ask_v forgiveness_n than_o not_o to_o offend_v if_o a_o man_n have_v the_o best_a remedy_n in_o the_o world_n he_o will_v not_o make_v himself_o sick_a to_o try_v the_o virtue_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v a_o know_a comparison_n and_o a_o very_a fit_a one_o that_o repentance_n be_v tabula_fw-la post_fw-la naâ—fragium_fw-la a_o plank_n after_o shipwreck_n but_o i_o be_o great_o afraid_a that_o thousand_o of_o soul_n who_o have_v trust_v to_o it_o have_v perish_v before_o they_o can_v get_v to_o land_n with_o this_o plank_n in_o their_o arm_n the_o last_o character_n of_o wisdom_n i_o shall_v mention_v be_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o consult_v the_o peace_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o our_o own_o mind_n without_o which_o nothing_o else_o can_v make_v we_o happy_a and_o this_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v natural_o procure_v great_a peace_n have_v they_o say_v david_n that_o love_v thy_o law_n and_o nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n say_v the_o prophet_n shall_v be_v peace_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o righteousness_n quietness_n and_o assurance_n for_o ever_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o the_o keep_n of_o his_o commandment_n be_v the_o best_a preservative_n against_o the_o trouble_n of_o a_o guilty_a conscience_n and_o the_o terrify_a apprehension_n of_o a_o future_a judgement_n and_o this_o be_v the_o great_a wisdom_n of_o religion_n that_o whosoever_o live_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o precept_n of_o it_o prevent_v the_o chief_a cause_n of_o discontent_n and_o lay_v the_o sure_a foundation_n of_o a_o perpetual_a satisfaction_n of_o mind_n a_o jewel_n of_o inestimable_a price_n which_o none_o know_v but_o he_o that_o have_v it_o and_o he_o that_o have_v it_o know_v the_o value_n of_o
a_o divine_a nature_n first_o we_o will_v consider_v the_o promise_n which_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o whereby_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o exceed_v great_a and_o precious_a promise_n and_o because_o the_o chief_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v here_o intend_v i_o shall_v take_v occasion_n from_o this_o text_n to_o handle_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o promise_n which_o be_v frequent_o discourse_v of_o in_o divinity_n but_o not_o always_o so_o clear_o state_v and_o to_o this_o purpose_n it_o will_v be_v proper_a to_o take_v into_o consideration_n these_o four_o thing_n 1._o what_o the_o promise_n be_v which_o be_v here_o speak_v of_o whereby_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o promise_v 2._o why_o they_o be_v say_v to_o be_v so_o great_a and_o precious_a exceed_v great_a and_o precious_a promise_n 3._o we_o will_v consider_v the_o tenor_n of_o these_o promise_n 4._o when_o man_n be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o right_n to_o they_o so_o as_o they_o may_v apply_v they_o to_o themselves_o these_o four_o head_n will_v comprehend_v what_o i_o have_v to_o say_v upon_o this_o argument_n 1._o what_o the_o promise_n be_v which_o the_o apostle_n here_o speak_v of_o whereby_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o promise_v and_o no_o doubt_n the_o apostle_n here_o intend_v those_o great_a and_o excellent_a promise_n which_o christ_n have_v make_v to_o we_o in_o the_o gospel_n so_o that_o to_o satisfy_v ourselves_o in_o this_o enquiry_n we_o need_v only_o to_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o principal_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n now_o the_o great_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v these_o three_o 1._o the_o promise_n of_o the_o free_a pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o our_o sin_n upon_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n 2._o the_o promise_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o holy_a spirit_n to_o assist_v our_o obedience_n 3._o the_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n to_o reward_v it_o 1._o the_o promise_n of_o the_o pardon_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o our_o sin_n upon_o our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n the_o gospel_n have_v make_v full_a and_o clear_a promise_n to_o this_o purpose_n that_o if_o we_o believe_v the_o gospel_n and_o will_v forsake_v our_o sin_n and_o amend_v our_o wicked_a life_n all_o that_o be_v past_a shall_v be_v forgive_v we_o and_o that_o christ_n die_v for_o this_o end_n to_o obtain_v for_o we_o remission_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n the_o light_n of_o nature_n upon_o consideration_n of_o the_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n give_v man_n good_a hope_n that_o upon_o their_o repentance_n god_n will_v forgive_v their_o sin_n and_o turn_v away_o his_o wrath_n from_o they_o but_o mankind_n be_v doubtful_a of_o this_o and_o therefore_o they_o use_v expiatory_a sacrifice_n to_o appease_v the_o offend_a deity_n the_o jewish_a religion_n allow_v of_o no_o expiation_n but_o for_o legal_a impurity_n and_o involuntary_a transgression_n such_o as_o proceed_v from_o ignorance_n and_o inadvertency_n but_o not_o for_o sin_n of_o presumption_n and_o such_o as_o be_v commit_v with_o a_o bigh_a hand_n if_o man_n sin_v wilful_o there_o be_v no_o sacrifice_n appoint_v by_o the_o law_n for_o such_o sin_n but_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n justify_v we_o from_o the_o great_a sin_n upon_o our_o faith_n and_o sincere_a repentance_n so_o st._n paul_n tell_v the_o jew_n act_n 13._o 38_o 39_o be_v it_o know_v â—nto_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 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 there_o be_v no_o general_a promise_n of_o pardon_n nor_o way_n of_o expiation_n under_o the_o law_n perfect_a remission_n of_o sin_n be_v clear_o reveal_v and_o ascertain_v to_o we_o only_o by_o the_o gospel_n 2._o another_o great_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o holy_a spirit_n to_o assist_v our_o obedience_n our_o bless_a saviour_n have_v promise_v that_o our_o heavenly_a father_n will_v give_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a promise_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o the_o apostle_n and_o christian_n of_o the_o first_o age_n which_o be_v not_o now_o to_o be_v expect_v namely_o a_o extraordinary_a and_o miraculous_a power_n whereby_o they_o be_v qualify_v to_o publish_v the_o gospel_n to_o the_o world_n and_o to_o give_v confirmation_n to_o it_o but_o now_o that_o the_o christian_a religion_n be_v propagate_v and_o settle_v in_o the_o world_n the_o great_a end_n and_o use_v of_o these_o miraculous_a gift_n be_v cease_v but_o yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v still_o concur_v with_o the_o gospel_n and_o work_v upon_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n to_o excite_v and_o assist_v they_o to_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o though_o this_o operation_n be_v very_o secret_a so_o as_o we_o can_v give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o manner_n of_o it_o yet_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o be_v very_o sensible_a and_o this_o influence_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v common_a to_o all_o christian_n in_o all_o age_n of_o the_o world_n this_o proposition_n be_v universal_o true_a and_o in_o all_o age_n and_o time_n if_o any_o man_n have_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n he_o be_v none_o of_o he_o it_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o spirit_n do_v not_o now_o work_v upon_o man_n in_o that_o sudden_a and_o sensible_a manner_n as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o first_o time_n of_o christianity_n because_o then_o man_n be_v strong_o possess_v with_o the_o prejudices_fw-la of_o other_o religion_n which_o they_o have_v be_v bring_v up_o in_o and_o therefore_o as_o more_o outward_a mean_n of_o conviction_n be_v then_o necessary_a so_o likewise_o a_o more_o powerful_a internal_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n to_o conquer_v and_o bear_v down_o those_o prejudices_fw-la and_o to_o subdue_v they_o to_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n but_o now_o the_o principle_n of_o religion_n and_o goodness_n be_v more_o gradual_o instill_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n by_o the_o gentle_a degree_n of_o pious_a instruction_n and_o education_n and_o with_o these_o mean_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n concur_v in_o a_o more_o humane_a way_n which_o be_v more_o suit_v and_o accommodate_v to_o our_o reason_n and_o offer_v less_o violence_n to_o the_o nature_n of_o men._n so_o that_o this_o promise_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v now_o make_v good_a to_o we_o as_o the_o necessity_n and_o circumstance_n of_o our_o present_a state_n do_v require_v god_n do_v not_o use_v such_o extraordinary_a mean_n for_o the_o produce_v of_o those_o effect_n which_o may_v be_v accomplish_v in_o a_o more_o ordinary_a way_n the_o assistance_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n be_v still_o necessary_a to_o man_n to_o incline_v and_o enable_v they_o to_o that_o which_o be_v good_a but_o not_o in_o that_o manner_n and_o degree_n that_o it_o be_v necessary_a at_o first_o because_o the_o prejudices_fw-la against_o christianity_n be_v not_o now_o so_o great_a and_o many_o of_o those_o advantage_n which_o be_v necessary_o want_v at_o first_o be_v now_o supply_v in_o a_o ordinary_a way_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o reasonable_a now_o to_o expect_v the_o same_o extraordinary_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n which_o we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o christianity_n 3._o there_o be_v likewise_o the_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n to_o reward_n and_o crown_v our_o obedience_n and_o this_o the_o scripture_n speak_v of_o as_o the_o great_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n 1_o job_n 2._o 25._o this_o be_v the_o promise_n which_o he_o have_v promise_v we_o even_o eternal_a life_n and_o upon_o this_o account_n the_o new_a covenant_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v prefer_v before_o the_o old_a covenant_n of_o the_o law_n because_o it_o be_v establish_v upon_o better_a promise_n all_o the_o special_a and_o particular_a promise_n of_o the_o law_n be_v of_o temporal_a good_a thing_n and_o these_o be_v the_o great_a encouragement_n that_o be_v give_v to_o obedience_n under_o that_o imimperfect_a dispensation_n but_o now_o godliness_n have_v not_o only_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o life_n that_o now_o be_v but_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v as_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o 1_o tim._n 4._o 8._o the_o gospel_n have_v clear_o reveal_v to_o we_o a_o happy_a state_n of_o immortality_n after_o this_o life_n of_o which_o man_n have_v but_o very_o obscure_a and_o doubtful_a apprehension_n so_o the_o same_o apostle_n tell_v we_o 2_o tim._n 1._o 10._o that_o it_o be_v now_o make_v manifest_a by_o the_o appearance_n of_o our_o saviour_n jâ—sus_n christ_n who_o have_v abâ—lisbed_v death_n and_o have_v bring_v life_n and_o immortality_n
excite_v we_o continual_o to_o our_o duty_n and_o to_o enable_v we_o to_o the_o most_o difficult_a part_n of_o obedience_n such_o as_o be_v most_o contrary_a to_o our_o natural_a inclination_n and_o against_o the_o grain_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n to_o bear_v down_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n and_o temptation_n and_o in_o all_o our_o conflict_n with_o the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n the_o devil_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n to_o make_v we_o victorious_a over_o they_o and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o be_v a_o principle_n within_o we_o more_o mighty_a and_o powerful_a than_o the_o lust_n and_o inclination_n of_o our_o evil_a heart_n than_o the_o most_o obstinate_a and_o inveterate_a habit_n of_o sin_n and_o vice_n and_o than_o all_o the_o temptation_n and_o terror_n of_o sense_n so_o that_o if_o we_o will_v make_v use_n of_o this_o assistance_n and_o lie_v hold_v of_o this_o strength_n which_o god_n afford_v we_o in_o the_o gospel_n and_o as_o the_o apostle_n express_v it_o be_v worker_n together_o with_o god_n we_o need_v not_o despair_v of_o victory_n and_o success_n for_o our_o strength_n will_v continual_o increase_v and_o the_o force_n and_o violence_n of_o our_o lust_n will_v be_v abate_v god_n will_v give_v we_o more_o grace_n and_o we_o shall_v walk_v from_o strength_n to_o strength_n and_o our_o path_n will_v be_v as_o solomon_n say_v of_o the_o way_n of_o the_o righteous_a as_o the_o light_n which_o shine_v more_o and_o more_o unto_o the_o perfect_a day_n for_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n conduct_n and_o manage_v this_o great_a work_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o salvation_n from_o first_o to_o last_o by_o open_v our_o heart_n to_o let_v in_o the_o light_n of_o divine_a truth_n upon_o our_o mind_n by_o represent_v to_o we_o with_o advantage_n such_o argument_n and_o consideration_n as_o be_v apt_a to_o persuade_v we_o to_o embrace_v it_o and_o yield_v to_o it_o by_o secret_a and_o gentle_a reprehension_n soften_a our_o hard_a heart_n and_o bâ—nding_v our_o stiff_a and_o stubborn_a will_n to_o a_o compliance_n with_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o our_o duty_n and_o this_o be_v that_o great_a work_n which_o the_o scripture_n call_v our_o regeneration_n and_o sanctification_n the_o turn_v we_o from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n a_o new_a creation_n and_o a_o resurrection_n from_o the_o death_n of_o sin_n to_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n and_o then_o by_o lead_v and_o direct_v we_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o obedience_n by_o quicken_a our_o devotion_n and_o stir_v up_o in_o we_o holy_a desire_n and_o disposition_n of_o soul_n render_v we_o fit_a to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n in_o prayer_n with_o a_o due_a sense_n of_o our_o own_o want_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o a_o humble_a confidence_n in_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n that_o he_o will_v grant_v we_o those_o good_a thing_n that_o we_o ask_v of_o he_o in_o support_v and_o comfort_v we_o in_o all_o our_o affliction_n and_o suffering_n especial_o for_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n sake_n and_o by_o seal_v and_o confirm_v to_o we_o the_o bless_a hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n thus_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n carry_v on_o the_o work_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o make_v we_o partaker_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n by_o way_n of_o inward_a efficacy_n and_o assistance_n second_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v apt_a likewise_o to_o have_v a_o mighty_a influence_n upon_o we_o by_o way_n of_o motive_n and_o argument_n to_o engage_v and_o encourage_v we_o to_o cleanse_v ourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o first_o a_o full_a pardon_n and_o indemnity_n for_o what_o be_v past_a be_v a_o mighty_a encouragement_n for_o we_o to_o return_v to_o our_o duty_n and_o a_o forcible_a argument_n to_o keep_v we_o to_o it_o for_o the_o future_a for_o since_o god_n who_o have_v be_v so_o high_o injure_v and_o affront_v by_o we_o be_v so_o willing_a and_o ready_a to_o forgive_v we_o as_o not_o only_o to_o provide_v and_o purchase_v for_o we_o the_o mean_n of_o our_o pardon_n by_o the_o grievous_a suffering_n of_o his_o dear_a son_n but_o to_o offer_v it_o so_o free_o and_o invite_v we_o so_o earnest_o to_o accept_v of_o it_o and_o to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o he_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o aught_o in_o all_o reason_n ingenuity_n and_o gratitude_n to_o melt_v we_o into_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o the_o evil_a of_o they_o and_o to_o inflame_v our_o heart_n with_o a_o mighty_a love_n to_o god_n and_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n who_o have_v love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n and_o to_o make_v we_o extreme_o unwilling_a nay_o most_o firm_o resolve_v never_o more_o to_o offend_v that_o merciful_a and_o gracious_a god_n who_o be_v so_o slow_a to_o punish_v and_o so_o forward_o to_o forgive_v and_o effectual_o to_o engage_v we_o to_o a_o dutiful_a and_o constant_a and_o cheerful_a obedience_n to_o god_n holy_a law_n and_o commandment_n lest_o by_o our_o wilful_a transgression_n and_o violation_n of_o they_o we_o shall_v run_v ourselves_o into_o a_o deep_a guilt_n and_o aggravate_v our_o condemnation_n now_o that_o by_o the_o tender_a mercy_n of_o our_o god_n we_o be_v make_v whole_a we_o shall_v be_v infinite_o afraid_a to_o sin_v any_o more_o lest_o worse_a thing_n come_v to_o we_o lest_o we_o relapse_n into_o a_o more_o incurable_a state_n and_o bring_v a_o heavy_a load_n of_o guilt_n and_o misery_n upon_o ourselves_o second_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o holy_a spirit_n be_v likewise_o a_o very_a powerful_a argument_n and_o encouragement_n to_o holiness_n and_o goodness_n engage_v we_o to_o cleanse_v ourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n that_o our_o soul_n and_o mind_n may_v be_v a_o fit_a temple_n for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o will_v not_o dwell_v in_o a_o impure_a soul_n and_o likewise_o encourage_v we_o hereto_o by_o this_o consideration_n that_o we_o have_v so_o unerring_a a_o guide_n to_o counsel_n and_o direct_v we_o so_o powerful_a a_o assistant_n to_o strengthen_v we_o with_o all_o might_n in_o the_o inner_a man_n to_o stand_v by_o we_o in_o all_o our_o conflict_n with_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o to_o make_v we_o as_o the_o apostle_n express_v it_o more_o than_o conqueror_n over_o all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n for_o though_o we_o be_v weak_a and_o our_o lust_n strong_a our_o enemy_n many_o and_o temptation_n mighty_a and_o violent_a yet_o we_o need_v not_o be_v dishearten_v so_o long_o as_o we_o know_v that_o god_n be_v with_o we_o and_o the_o grace_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n sufficient_a for_o we_o against_o all_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n and_o hell_n though_o our_o duty_n be_v hard_a and_o our_o strength_n small_a yet_o we_o can_v fail_v of_o success_n if_o we_o be_v sure_a that_o the_o omnipotent_a grace_n of_o god_n be_v always_o ready_a to_o second_v our_o sincere_a though_o never_o so_o weak_a endeavour_n so_o that_o when_o we_o see_v all_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n draw_v up_o in_o array_n against_o we_o we_o may_v encourage_v ourselves_o as_o the_o prophet_n elisha_n do_v his_o servant_n when_o he_o tell_v he_o that_o a_o host_n compass_v the_o city_n with_o horse_n and_o chariot_n and_o say_v alas_o my_o master_n how_o shall_v we_o do_v and_o he_o answer_v fear_v not_o for_o they_o that_o be_v with_o we_o be_v more_o than_o they_o that_o be_v with_o they_o 2_o king_n 6._o 16._o or_o as_o hezekiah_n comfort_v the_o people_n when_o they_o be_v afraid_a of_o the_o mighty_a force_n of_o the_o king_n of_o assyria_n 2_o chron._n 32._o 7_o 8._o be_v strong_a and_o courageous_a be_v not_o afraid_a nor_o dismay_v for_o the_o king_n of_o assyria_n nor_o for_o all_o the_o multitude_n that_o be_v with_o he_o for_o there_o be_v more_o with_o we_o than_o with_o he_o with_o he_o be_v a_o arm_n of_o flesh_n but_o with_o we_o be_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n to_o help_v we_o and_o to_o fight_v for_o we_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o every_o christian_a the_o force_n that_o be_v against_o we_o be_v finite_a and_o limit_v but_o the_o almighty_a god_n be_v on_o our_o side_n and_o fight_v for_o we_o and_o every_o one_o of_o we_o may_v say_v with_o st._n paul_n philip._n 4._o 13._o i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n which_o strengthen_v i_o three_o the_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n if_o due_o weigh_v and_o consider_v have_v a_o mighty_a force_n in_o it_o to_o take_v we_o off_o from_o the_o love_n and_o practice_n of_o sin_n and_o to_o encourage_v our_o obedience_n and_o patient_a continuance_n
genuine_a sense_n of_o this_o expression_n seem_v to_o be_v this_o that_o those_o who_o according_a to_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o god_n will_n and_o the_o wise_a dispensation_n of_o his_o providence_n be_v appoint_v to_o suffer_v for_o his_o cause_n shall_v demean_v themselves_o so_o and_o so_o let_v they_o that_o suffer_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o be_v those_o who_o god_n think_v fit_a to_o call_v to_o suffer_v and_o this_o agree_v very_o well_o with_o the_o like_a expression_n chap._n 3._o of_o this_o epist_n ver_fw-la 17._o for_o it_o be_v better_a if_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v so_o that_o be_v if_o god_n have_v so_o appoint_v it_o and_o think_v it_o fit_a that_o you_o suffer_v for_o well-doing_n than_o for_o evil-doing_a second_o what_o be_v here_o mean_v by_o commit_v the_o keep_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o god_n as_o to_o a_o faithful_a creator_n that_o be_v to_o deposit_v our_o life_n and_o all_o that_o belong_v to_o we_o in_o a_o word_n ourselves_o into_o the_o hand_n and_o custody_n of_o his_o merciful_a care_n and_o providence_n who_o make_v we_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v be_v sure_o will_v faithful_o keep_v what_o we_o commit_v to_o he_o for_o as_o we_o be_v his_o creature_n he_o be_v engage_v to_o take_v care_n of_o we_o and_o will_v not_o abandon_v the_o work_n of_o his_o own_o hand_n beside_o that_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o be_v more_o especial_o concern_v for_o good_a man_n to_o support_v they_o in_o their_o suffering_n for_o a_o good_a cause_n and_o to_o reward_v they_o for_o it_o and_o he_o be_v faithful_a that_o have_v promise_v and_o therefore_o there_o be_v great_a reason_n and_o great_a encouragement_n in_o all_o our_o suffering_n for_o god_n cause_n and_o truth_n to_o commit_v our_o soul_n to_o his_o care_n and_o custody_n our_o soul_n that_o be_v as_o i_o say_v before_o our_o life_n and_o all_o that_o belong_v to_o we_o in_o a_o word_n ourselves_o for_o so_o the_o word_n soul_n be_v frequent_o use_v both_o in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n psal_n 7._o 5._o let_v the_o enemy_n persecute_v my_o soul_n and_o take_v it_o that_o be_v my_o life_n for_o so_o it_o follow_v in_o the_o next_o word_n yea_o let_v he_o tread_v doâ—n_o my_o life_n upon_o the_o earth_n and_o psal_n 54._o 3._o oppressor_n seek_v after_o my_o soul_n and_o psal_n 59_o 3._o they_o lie_v in_o waâ—t_n for_o my_o soul_n that_o be_v my_o life_n and_o psal_n 16._o 10._o thou_o will_v not_o leave_v my_o soul_n in_o hell_n my_o soul_n that_o be_v myself_o thou_o will_v not_o suffer_v i_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o grave_a and_o under_o the_o power_n of_o death_n but_o will_v raise_v i_o up_o to_o life_n again_o and_o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n mar._n 8._o 35._o whosoever_o will_v save_v his_o life_n shall_v lose_v it_o but_o whosoever_o shall_v lose_v his_o life_n for_o my_o sake_n and_o the_o gospel_n the_o same_o shall_v save_v it_o the_o same_o word_n which_o be_v here_o render_v life_n in_o the_o very_a next_o verse_n be_v render_v soul_n for_o what_o shall_v it_o profit_v a_o man_n if_o he_o shall_v gain_v the_o whole_a world_n and_o lose_v his_o own_o soul_n that_o be_v his_o life_n and_o so_o likewise_o joâ—_n 12._o 25._o he_o that_o love_v his_o life_n shall_v lose_v it_o and_o he_o that_o hate_v his_o life_n in_o this_o world_n in_o the_o original_a the_o word_n signify_v soul_n he_o that_o hate_v his_o life_n in_o this_o world_n that_o be_v who_o neglect_v and_o expose_v his_o life_n in_o this_o world_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o christ_n shall_v keep_v it_o unto_o life_n eternal_a and_o luke_n 9_o 25._o that_o which_o the_o other_o evangelist_n render_v by_o the_o word_n soul_n or_o life_n he_o render_v himself_o for_o what_o be_v a_o man_n advantage_v if_o he_o gain_v the_o whole_a world_n and_o lose_v himself_o and_o so_o here_o in_o the_o text_n to_o commit_v the_o keep_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o god_n be_v to_o commit_v ourselves_o to_o his_o care_n and_o providence_n three_o what_o be_v here_o mean_v by_o commit_v ourselves_o to_o he_o in_o well-doing_n by_o well-doing_n be_v here_o mean_v a_o fix_a purpose_n and_o resolution_n of_o do_v our_o duty_n notwithstanding_o all_o hazard_n and_o suffering_n which_o be_v call_v by_o st._n paul_n rom._n 2._o 7._o a_o patient_a continuance_n in_o well-doing_n it_o signify_v sometime_o act_n of_o goodness_n and_o charity_n but_o in_o this_o epistle_n it_o be_v take_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n for_o constancy_n and_o resolution_n in_o the_o do_n of_o our_o duty_n as_o chap._n 2._o 15._o for_o so_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o with_o well-doing_n that_o be_v by_o a_o resolute_a constancy_n in_o a_o good_a course_n you_o may_v put_v to_o silence_v the_o ignorance_n of_o foolish_a men._n and_o ver_fw-la 20._o but_o if_o when_o you_o do_v well_o and_o sâ—ffer_v for_o it_o that_o be_v if_o when_o you_o suffer_v for_o well-doing_n you_o take_v it_o patient_o this_o be_v acceptable_a with_o god_n and_o chap._n 3._o ver_fw-la 6._o as_o long_o as_o you_o do_v well_o and_o be_v not_o afraid_a with_o any_o amazement_n that_o be_v be_v resolute_a and_o constant_a in_o do_v your_o duty_n notwithstanding_o all_o threaten_n and_o terror_n and_o ver_fw-la 17._o for_o it_o be_v better_a if_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v so_o that_o you_o suffer_v for_o well-doing_n than_o for_o evil-doing_a that_o be_v for_o your_o religion_n and_o constancy_n in_o so_o good_a a_o cause_n as_o christian_n and_o not_o as_o criminal_n upon_o any_o other_o account_n so_o that_o the_o plain_a meaning_n of_o the_o word_n be_v as_o if_o the_o apostle_n have_v say_v wherefore_o be_v forewarn_v of_o suffer_v and_o persecution_n for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n the_o sum_n of_o my_o direction_n and_o advice_n upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n be_v this_o that_o since_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o you_o shall_v suffer_v upon_o this_o account_n commit_v yourselves_o in_o the_o constant_a discharge_n of_o your_o duty_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n to_o the_o particular_a care_n and_o providence_n of_o almighty_n god_n as_o the_o faithful_a creator_n and_o now_o i_o come_v to_o handle_v the_o particular_a point_n contain_v in_o the_o word_n and_o they_o be_v these_o three_o first_o that_o when_o man_n do_v suffer_v real_o and_o true_o for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n they_o may_v with_o confidence_n commit_v themselves_o their_o life_n and_o all_o that_o be_v dear_a to_o they_o to_o the_o particular_a and_o more_o especial_a care_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n second_o always_o provide_v that_o we_o do_v nothing_o contrary_a to_o our_o duty_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n for_o this_o the_o apostle_n mean_v by_o commit_v ourselves_o to_o god_n in_o well-doing_n if_o we_o step_v out_o of_o the_o way_n of_o our_o duty_n or_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a to_o it_o god_n providence_n will_v not_o be_v concern_v for_o we_o to_o bear_v we_o out_o in_o such_o suffering_n three_o i_o shall_v consider_v what_o ground_n of_o comfort_n and_o encouragement_n the_o consideration_n of_o god_n as_o a_o faithful_a creator_n afford_v to_o we_o in_o all_o our_o suffering_n for_o a_o good_a cause_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n first_o when_o man_n do_v suffer_v real_o and_o true_o for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n and_o god_n truth_n they_o may_v with_o confidence_n and_o good_a assurance_n commit_v themselves_o their_o life_n and_o all_o that_o be_v dear_a to_o they_o to_o the_o particular_a and_o more_o especial_a care_n of_o his_o providence_n in_o the_o handle_n of_o this_o i_o shall_v consider_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o when_o man_n may_v be_v say_v to_o suffer_v real_o and_o true_o for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n and_o when_o not_o 2._o how_o far_o they_o may_v rely_v upon_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n to_o bear_v they_o out_o in_o these_o suffering_n 3._o what_o â—â—ound_n and_o reason_n there_o be_v to_o expect_v the_o more_o particular_a and_o especial_a care_n of_o god_n providence_n in_o case_n of_o such_o suffering_n 1._o when_o man_n may_v be_v say_v to_o suffer_v real_o and_o true_o for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n and_o god_n truth_n and_o when_o not_o in_o these_o case_n first_o when_o man_n suffer_v for_o not_o renounce_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o because_o they_o will_v not_o open_o declare_v against_o it_o and_o apostatise_v from_o it_o but_o it_o will_v be_v say_v that_o in_o all_o these_o case_n the_o question_n be_v what_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o all_o discourse_n of_o this_o nature_n about_o suffer_v for_o religion_n do_v suppose_v the_o truth_n of_o some_o religion_n or_o other_o and_o among_o christian_n the_o truth_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n