and_o at_o length_n that_o they_o shall_v whole_o give_v themselves_o to_o religious_a exercise_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n mean_v time_n they_o conceive_v they_o may_v come_v in_o among_o the_o true_a convert_n and_o young_a beginner_n albeit_o they_o come_v not_o up_o the_o length_n which_o they_o intend_v but_o be_v unde_fw-la the_o power_n of_o some_o belove_a lust_n which_o they_o can_v rid_v themselves_o of_o but_o do_v hope_v they_o shall_v betimes_o overcome_v they_o such_o man_n do_v miserable_o mistake_v the_o mater_fw-la first_o in_o that_o they_o think_v their_o purpose_n of_o repentance_n and_o a_o new_a life_n breed_v in_o they_o by_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n to_o be_v the_o very_a grace_n of_o regeneration_n and_o begin_v sanctification_n second_o they_o conceive_v that_o the_o lust_n which_o do_v reign_v in_o themselves_o be_v common_a to_o they_o and_o all_o other_o regenerate_v person_n of_o who_o few_o or_o none_o think_v they_o want_v their_o own_o gross_a fault_n three_o they_o conceive_v they_o can_v repent_v more_o serious_o when_o they_o please_v and_o will_v repent_v after_o a_o while_n follow_v of_o their_o belove_a lust_n as_o if_o repentance_n be_v not_o a_o save_a grace_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o they_o do_v daily_o provoke_v by_o their_o vileness_n but_o a_o work_n in_o the_o power_n of_o every_o man_n freewill_n be_v once_o convince_v of_o his_o sin_n four_o they_o do_v not_o consider_v that_o by_o the_o delay_n of_o repent_v and_o turn_v from_o all_o sin_n unto_o god_n their_o heart_n be_v daily_o more_o and_o more_o in_o god_n judgement_n harden_v and_o god_n provoke_v to_o punish_v their_o voluntary_a impenitence_n with_o judicial_a hardness_n of_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v never_o repent_v such_o man_n our_o lord_n compare_v to_o the_o disobedient_a son_n who_o promise_v to_o his_o father_n he_o will_v go_v work_n in_o his_o vineyard_n and_o go_v not_o math._n 21._o 30._o such_o man_n be_v they_o who_o know_v the_o well_o of_o the_o lord_n but_o do_v it_o not_o and_o therefore_o worthy_a of_o double_a punishment_n math_n 12._o 47._o the_o â—â—medy_n of_o this_o evil_a christ_n give_v luk._n 13._o 24_o 25_o 26._o strive_v to_o enter_v at_o the_o strait_a gate_n for_o many_o â—_o say_v unto_o you_o will_v seek_v to_o enter_v in_o and_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a mâ—n_z know_v not_o how_o soon_o god_n may_v shut_v the_o door_n therefore_o man_n have_v need_v while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n not_o to_o harden_v their_o heart_n psal_n 95._o 8._o 2._o other_o some_o be_v who_o be_v of_o a_o civil_a life_n profess_v and_o do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o indeed_o do_v repent_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v certain_o expect_v salvation_n free_o of_o his_o grace_n if_o you_o pose_v any_o such_o man_n whether_o they_o do_v indeed_o believe_v in_o christ_n they_o shall_v present_o answer_v that_o they_o firm_o do_v believe_v in_o he_o and_o that_o they_o never_o doubt_v but_o he_o be_v their_o sweet_a saviour_n who_o die_v for_o they_o if_o you_o press_v they_o to_o speak_v in_o earnest_n from_o their_o heart_n they_o shall_v present_o be_v ill_o please_v with_o the_o question_n and_o ask_v what_o cause_n of_o suspect_v the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o repentance_n can_v be_v just_o allege_v or_o what_o cause_n have_v any_o man_n to_o suspect_v they_o or_o doubt_v of_o god_n favour_n towards_o they_o in_o christ_n in_o who_o shall_v we_o believe_v say_v they_o if_o not_o in_o christ_n be_v there_o any_o other_o saviour_n of_o sinner_n beside_o he_o if_o a_o man_n please_v to_o try_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o faith_n by_o their_o repentance_n they_o shall_v forthwith_o affirm_v that_o they_o repent_v day_n and_o night_n and_o have_v just_a cause_n so_o to_o do_v for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o and_o why_o then_o shall_v we_o not_o always_o repent_v if_o they_o be_v ask_v of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n they_o shall_v answer_v after_o the_o same_o manner_n such_o man_n be_v these_o of_o who_o christ_n speak_v that_o they_o will_v confident_o come_v to_o he_o and_o call_v he_o lord_n lord_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v no_o way_n careful_a to_o do_v the_o lord_n will_v but_o servant_n to_o their_o own_o lust_n 3._o such_o man_n do_v deceive_v themselves_o first_o by_o frame_v to_o themselves_o such_o carnal_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o save_a hope_n and_o other_o spiritual_a grace_n as_o in_o their_o fantasy_n they_o conceive_v they_o do_v practice_v which_o conception_n be_v not_o ground_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n second_o they_o esteem_v the_o assent_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o the_o truth_n commend_v these_o duty_n unto_o man_n as_o good_a as_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o and_o they_o do_v take_v the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n concern_v the_o equity_n of_o such_o duty_n for_o the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n of_o their_o practice_n and_o obedience_n of_o these_o duty_n and_o while_o their_o conscience_n say_v why_o shall_v not_o i_o do_v so_o they_o take_v that_o for_o as_o good_a as_o if_o it_o have_v say_v i_o do_v so_o but_o save_v grace_n go_v deep_a than_o civil_a carriage_n and_o to_o commend_v the_o duty_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n be_v not_o enough_o except_o they_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n also_o in_o daily_a sorrow_n for_o sin_n and_o hatred_n of_o it_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n daily_o to_o be_v washen_n and_o more_o and_o more_o sanctify_a 4._o some_o there_o be_v who_o when_o they_o have_v hear_v that_o a_o man_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n do_v imagine_v a_o faith_n which_o need_v not_o to_o bring_v forth_o any_o good_a work_n at_o all_o and_o so_o they_o take_v off_o the_o justify_v man_n from_o all_o necessity_n of_o follow_v good_a work_n as_o far_o as_o they_o take_v off_o good_a work_n from_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o justification_n and_o do_v open_a a_o door_n to_o themselves_o to_o live_v after_o their_o own_o will_n in_o the_o lust_n of_o their_o flesh_n conceive_v that_o they_o who_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v fir_v not_o only_o from_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n but_o also_o from_o the_o command_n of_o the_o law_n against_o who_o our_o lord_n do_v speak_v and_o do_v cut_v off_o such_o libertine_n and_o turner_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n math._n 5._o 17_o 18_o 19_o and_o the_o apostle_n to_o guard_v against_o this_o self-deceit_n heb._n 12._o 14._o command_v to_o follow_v holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n 5._o some_o there_o be_v who_o pretend_v to_o esteem_v well_o of_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o duty_n of_o follow_v the_o mean_n of_o make_v they_o partaker_n of_o the_o marriage-supper_n do_v yet_o think_v themselves_o excusable_a when_o they_o have_v much_o ado_n in_o their_o worldly_a calling_n albeit_o they_o prefer_v the_o care_n of_o their_o family_n and_o provision_n for_o their_o thing_n outward_a unto_o the_o main_a work_n of_o their_o entertain_a communion_n with_o god_n yea_o they_o conceive_v that_o god_n will_v allow_v they_o in_o so_o do_v as_o christ_n do_v insinuat_fw-la in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o guest_n invite_v to_o the_o feast_n answer_v the_o invitation_n with_o i_o pray_v have_v i_o excuse_v luke_n 14._o 18_o 19_o this_o be_v a_o rise_v evil_a in_o great_a personage_n rich_a person_n and_o such_o as_o be_v much_o implove_v in_o earthly_a affair_n such_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o first_o in_o lay_v down_o this_o ground_n with_o themselves_o that_o their_o earthly_a affair_n the_o necessity_n whereof_o do_v first_o and_o most_o sensible_o appear_v must_v in_o the_o first_o room_n be_v cared-for_a and_o that_o the_o one_o thing_n necessary_a may_v be_v follow_v after_o as_o their_o civil_a and_o earthly_a affair_n may_v permit_v second_o they_o reckon_v gain_v to_o be_v godliness_n 1_o tim._n 6._o 5._o for_o they_o can_v be_v persuade_v when_o gain_n may_v be_v have_v that_o god_n require_v of_o any_o man_n to_o slip_v the_o occasion_n or_o to_o put_v his_o worldly_a good_n in_o hazard_n by_o defend_v or_o follow_v matter_n of_o religion_n three_o they_o think_v themselves_o so_o wise_a as_o they_o can_v well_o enough_o serve_v two_o master_n god_n and_o covetousness_n albeit_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n they_o will_v be_v find_v to_o serve_v not_o god_n but_o their_o own_o lust_n this_o error_n our_o lord_n refute_v and_o give_v warning_n to_o beware_v of_o it_o matth._n 6._o 24._o and_o luke_n 21._o 34._o take_v heed_n
these_o and_o the_o like_a ground_n the_o apostle_n live_v a_o comfortable_a life_n phil._n 4._o 12._o i_o know_v both_o how_o to_o be_v abase_v and_o i_o know_v how_o to_o abound_v every_o where_o and_o in_o all_o thing_n i_o be_o instruct_v both_o to_o be_v full_a and_o to_o be_v hungry_a both_o to_o abound_v and_o suffer_v need_n i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n who_o strengthen_v i_o thus_o must_v christian_n soldier_n live_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o toil_a in_o warfare_n in_o want_n of_o many_o thing_n in_o watch_v and_o run_v hazard_n of_o life_n in_o hope_n of_o victory_n and_o promise_a glory_n hold_v up_o their_o heart_n by_o faith_n in_o christ._n and_o these_o thing_n which_o we_o have_v speak_v in_o explication_n of_o this_o case_n be_v not_o intend_v to_o hinder_v the_o tender_a heart_a believer_n from_o pray_v and_o endeavour_v by_o all_o mean_n that_o the_o face_n of_o the_o lord_n may_v shine_v upon_o he_o and_o that_o he_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o we_o be_v charge_v to_o seek_v his_o face_n and_o strength_n continual_o psal._n 105._o 4._o but_o all_o our_o speech_n do_v drive_v at_o this_o main_o that_o the_o afflict_a in_o his_o discouragement_n and_o unquietness_n meek_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n howsoever_o he_o be_v exercise_v always_o go_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n according_a to_o his_o vocation_n through_o honour_n and_o dishonour_n through_o good_a report_n and_o evil_a report_n look_v unto_o the_o promise_n which_o be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o endure_v to_o the_o end_n and_o what_o be_v speak_v here_o of_o live_v by_o faith_n must_v not_o be_v abuse_v to_o soft_a negligence_n in_o well_o do_v or_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o every_o condition_n or_o to_o hinder_v the_o daily_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o to_o require_v of_o a_o christian_a a_o stoical_a stupidity_n under_o trouble_n but_o the_o thing_n we_o aim_v at_o be_v that_o the_o christian_a in_o all_o cross_a dispensation_n and_o vexation_n endeavour_v by_o faith_n to_o be_v of_o good_a courage_n in_o the_o lord_n and_o endeavour_v to_o draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n give_v glory_n to_o he_o whatsoever_o measure_n he_o shall_v bestow_v more_o or_o less_o because_o it_o be_v christ_n who_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n and_o in_o he_o alone_o shall_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o afflict_a have_v rest_n matth._n 11._o 24._o chap._n ix_o wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_v arise_v from_o his_o uncertainty_n as_o what_o time_n he_o be_v convert_v be_v solve_v there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o after_o they_o have_v pass_v a_o good_a part_n of_o their_o journey_n to_o heaven_n begin_v to_o halt_v and_o make_v slow_a progress_n by_o doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v walk_v in_o the_o true_a convert_n footstep_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v convert_v at_o all_o or_o not_o the_o reason_n of_o their_o doubt_n arise_v from_o this_o that_o in_o conference_n with_o sundry_a of_o the_o saint_n of_o their_o acquaintance_n they_o have_v observe_v that_o every_o one_o of_o they_o can_v design_v the_o time_n of_o their_o conversion_n and_o from_o that_o time_n can_v reckon_v their_o age_n in_o christ_n or_o from_o this_o be_v their_o doubt_n arisen_a that_o in_o the_o treatise_n of_o some_o modern_a writer_n they_o have_v read_v or_o from_o the_o sermon_n of_o some_o well_o esteem_v preacher_n they_o have_v hear_v some_o such_o doctrine_n whereupon_o the_o true_a convert_n fall_v out_o with_o himself_o in_o say_v i_o be_v breed_v and_o bring_v up_o in_o a_o godly_a family_n i_o have_v follow_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n after_o hear_v the_o head_n and_o sum_n of_o christian_n religion_n i_o have_v embrace_v the_o truth_n i_o seem_v to_o myself_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o entertain_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o to_o endeavour_v the_o amendment_n of_o my_o life_n i_o love_v these_o who_o i_o see_v to_o live_v holy_o and_o i_o do_v hate_v the_o way_n of_o the_o profane_a but_o because_o i_o can_v tell_v when_o or_o what_o day_n or_o year_n i_o be_v real_o convert_v as_o i_o know_v sundry_a of_o the_o godly_a of_o my_o acquaintance_n can_v do_v therefore_o i_o doubt_v whether_o my_o conversion_n be_v begin_v or_o not_o but_o mean_a time_n though_o i_o will_v not_o turn_v off_o the_o way_n i_o have_v be_v follow_v yet_o i_o go_v on_o halt_v and_o heartless_a till_o i_o be_v clear_v of_o my_o doubt_n 2._o for_o remove_v this_o doubt_n we_o must_v yield_v this_o far_o to_o the_o afflict_a that_o many_o indeed_o deceive_v themselves_o who_o be_v civil_o educate_v and_o from_o their_o bairn-age_n accustom_v with_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n be_v nothing_o beyond_o the_o foolish_a virgin_n and_o do_v rest_v satisfy_v with_o their_o own_o and_o other_o opinion_n of_o themselves_o if_o such_o person_n be_v question_v when_o they_o begin_v to_o repent_v or_o believe_v in_o christ_n it_o be_v true_a they_o can_v design_v the_o time_n when_o they_o be_v unconvert_v but_o have_v still_o be_v please_v and_o be_v please_v with_o their_o own_o estate_n and_o in_o effect_n be_v never_o convert_v but_o it_o be_v no_o less_o true_a on_o the_o other_o hand_n that_o there_o be_v some_o who_o indeed_o be_v renew_v in_o who_o piece_n and_o piece_n without_o any_o notable_a change_n faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o a_o holy_a conversation_n have_v grow_v with_o the_o grow_a knowledge_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o will_v of_o god_n therein_o of_o who_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n come_v not_o with_o observation_n of_o who_o it_o be_v say_v mark_n 4._o 26._o so_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v cast_v seed_n into_o the_o ground_n and_o shall_v sleep_v and_o rise_v night_n and_o day_n and_o the_o seed_n shall_v spring_v and_o grow_v up_o he_o know_v not_o how_o but_o to_o solve_v the_o doubt_n it_o matter_n not_o whether_o a_o man_n know_v or_o not_o know_v the_o day_n of_o his_o conversion_n provide_v he_o be_v indeed_o regenerate_v and_o make_v a_o new_a creature_n wherefore_o the_o afflict_a may_v be_v of_o good_a courage_n if_o after_o serious_a examination_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n he_o be_v humble_v frequent_o in_o the_o sense_n not_o only_o of_o his_o actual_a sin_n and_o short-coming_a of_o his_o duty_n but_o also_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o original_n and_o indwelling_a corruption_n or_o body_n of_o death_n if_o as_o he_o do_v indeed_o loath_a himself_o and_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o best_a work_n so_o he_o serious_o embrace_v the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o in_o his_o strength_n by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v endeavour_n to_o live_v holy_o righteous_o and_o sober_o albeit_o join_v with_o many_o imperfection_n he_o may_v conclude_v he_o be_v regenerate_v for_o if_o these_o three_o be_v join_v in_o he_o in_o any_o measure_n of_o honesty_n he_o need_v not_o be_v anxious_a what_o day_n month_n or_o year_n the_o holy_a spirit_n begin_v to_o work_v these_o thing_n in_o he_o only_o let_v he_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o grow_v in_o humility_n faith_n and_o new_a obedience_n and_o to_o hold_v on_o this_o way_n whatsoever_o doubt_n or_o impediment_n he_o shall_v meet_v with_o for_o the_o apostle_n exeem_v such_o a_o man_n from_o the_o number_n of_o hypocrite_n and_o unconvert_v phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o say_v he_o be_v the_o circumcision_n or_o the_o christian_a convert_n who_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o rejoice_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n chap._n x._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o regeneration_n arise_v from_o his_o apprehension_n that_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o change_n of_o his_o life_n be_v not_o from_o the_o sincere_a love_n of_o god_n but_o either_o from_o terror_n or_o self-love_n which_o he_o conceive_v to_o be_v but_o carnal_a some_o true_a convert_n be_v who_o can_v design_v the_o time_n of_o the_o change_n of_o their_o way_n from_o sin_n to_o christ_n and_o to_o a_o holy_a life_n whereof_o they_o have_v not_o only_o the_o church_n they_o live_v in_o but_o also_o their_o own_o conscience_n witness_n yet_o after_o a_o considerable_a time_n do_v fall_n in_o suspicion_n whether_o that_o time_n of_o their_o change_n be_v the_o time_n of_o their_o effectual_a call_n some_o of_o they_o bring_v no_o other_o reason_n of_o their_o doubt_n save_o this_o that_o they_o be_v never_o much_o trouble_v with_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o law_n but_o most_o part_n allure_v to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n and_o to_o eshew_v the_o way_n of_o sin_v by_o the_o love_n
the_o present_a and_o in_o this_o sense_n a_o unrenewed_a man_n be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o a_o better_a or_o worse_a condition_n for_o the_o present_a in_o comparison_n with_o other_o unrenewed_a man_n or_o with_o himself_o at_o another_o time_n in_o which_o sense_n mark_v 12._o 34._o christ_n speak_v to_o the_o scribe_n who_o answer_v he_o in_o all_o thing_n discreet_o say_v thou_o be_v not_o far_o front_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o condition_n for_o the_o present_a of_o this_o scribe_n be_v better_a than_o his_o fellow_n and_o better_a than_o his_o own_o at_o another_o time_n and_o yet_o his_o person_n be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o wrath_n because_o he_o be_v not_o enter_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n howsoever_o he_o be_v not_o far_o from_o it_o in_o this_o more_o strict_a sense_n the_o judicial_a state_n of_o the_o man_n person_n be_v fix_v so_o long_o as_o the_o judicial_a sentence_n of_o the_o judge_n bind_v the_o unconvert_v to_o the_o curse_n that_o be_v pronounce_v in_o the_o law_n or_o in_o the_o gospel_n louse_v the_o convert_v from_o the_o curse_n do_v stand_v but_o the_o moral_a disposition_n and_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o man_n whether_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o nature_n be_v variable_a and_o changeable_a to_o the_o better_a or_o worse_o in_o comparison_n with_o other_o or_o himself_o at_o another_o time_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o person_n may_v be_v in_o a_o better_a or_o worse_a condition_n his_o state_n remain_v the_o same_o to_o wit_n good_a if_o he_o be_v renew_v and_o evil_a if_o he_o be_v still_o in_o nature_n unrenewed_a 2._o but_o here_o we_o be_v about_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n only_o which_o may_v be_v better_o at_o one_o time_n and_o worse_o at_o another_o time_n as_o his_o disposition_n and_o caâ—â—age_n in_o order_n to_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o righteousness_n fall_v out_o to_o be_v better_a or_o worse_o according_a as_o his_o action_n and_o behaviour_n be_v more_o or_o less_o conform_v to_o the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n and_o as_o his_o conscience_n do_v its_o duty_n more_o or_o less_o commendable_o sometime_o his_o conscience_n upon_o good_a ground_n speak_v good_a to_o he_o while_o he_o study_v to_o walk_v before_o god_n unto_o all_o well-pleasing_a and_o then_o he_o may_v say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 26._o 12._o my_o foot_n stand_v in_o a_o even_a place_n in_o the_o congregation_n will_v i_o bless_v the_o lord_n to_o this_o good_a condition_n we_o need_v not_o say_v much_o because_o there_o be_v no_o present_a disease_n which_o call_v for_o cure_v of_o this_o case_n only_o it_o be_v for_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o this_o case_n necessary_a to_o observe_v diet_n and_o exercise_n to_o maintain_v his_o good_a condition_n and_o to_o watch_v over_o his_o heart_n and_o way_n that_o he_o may_v continue_v and_o go_v on_o therein_o all_o that_o we_o have_v to_o deal_v with_o be_v the_o ill_a condition_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n when_o his_o conscience_n do_v deceive_v he_o or_o do_v not_o discharge_v its_o duty_n for_o in_o this_o case_n only_a remedy_n and_o cure_n be_v call_v for_o 3._o as_o that_o condition_n wherein_o the_o convert_n be_v best_a please_v with_o himself_o be_v not_o always_o the_o best_a so_o neither_o be_v that_o condition_n wherewith_o he_o be_v worst_a please_v always_o the_o worst_a but_o that_o be_v the_o best_a condition_n wherein_o the_o holy_a spirit_n do_v most_o bear_v down_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n and_o advance_v the_o work_n of_o sanctification_n of_o the_o man_n and_o that_o condition_n be_v the_o worst_a wherein_o sin_n most_o prevail_v and_o as_o the_o goodness_n of_o a_o man_n condition_n be_v be_v not_o to_o be_v estimat_fw-la by_o any_o eventual_a accident_n but_o by_o its_o own_o nature_n and_o proper_a effect_n so_o the_o illnesse_n of_o a_o man_n condition_n be_v not_o to_o be_v estimat_fw-la by_o any_o eventual_a accident_n but_o by_o its_o own_o nature_n and_o proper_a effect_n as_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n give_v ground_n of_o judgement_n of_o a_o good_a or_o ill_a condition_n for_o otherways_o by_o the_o default_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n the_o best_a condition_n may_v degenerate_v in_o a_o very_a ill_a condition_n as_o when_o a_o man_n do_v abuse_v divine_a consolation_n and_o after_o receive_v of_o the_o renew_a earnest_n of_o the_o inheritance_n from_o the_o holy_a spirit_n grow_v carnal_o secure_a and_o negligent_a in_o his_o duty_n or_o when_o after_o some_o gross_a pollution_n of_o himself_o in_o body_n or_o soul_n have_v grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n he_o do_v not_o humble_a himself_o as_o become_v he_o but_o by_o satan_n suggestion_n of_o wicked_a thought_n against_o god_n and_o his_o former_a work_n in_o he_o do_v fall_v in_o suspicion_n of_o all_o former_a gracious_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o he_o and_o miscalleth_a all_o these_o former_a experience_n and_o in_o his_o tentation_n esteem_v and_o name_v they_o among_o satan_n delusion_n or_o else_o at_o least_o suspect_v and_o fear_v they_o shall_v prove_v no_o better_o than_o such_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n the_o worst_a condition_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n by_o the_o wisdom_n mercy_n and_o power_n of_o god_n may_v be_v turn_v to_o advantage_n in_o order_n to_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o renew_a man_n salvation_n as_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o psalmist_n do_v show_v we_o psal._n 116_o 3_o 4._o etc._n etc._n 4._o a_o evil_a condition_n be_v so_o call_v either_o 1._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o evil_n which_o the_o convert_v not_o only_o feel_v real_o but_o lament_v it_o serious_o or_o 2._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o convert_v estimation_n only_o who_o lament_v his_o good_a condition_n without_o cause_n or_o 3._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o real_a evil_n which_o the_o convert_n lament_v not_o at_o all_o but_o lie_v under_o it_o secure_o of_o the_o first_o sort_n be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o convert_n when_o he_o see_v his_o own_o blindness_n nakedness_n and_o misery_n the_o hardness_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o it_o and_o do_v fly_v for_o remedy_n thereof_o to_o christ_n the_o true_a physician_n to_o cover_v and_o cure_v all_o his_o disease_n this_o condition_n be_v evil_a only_a in_o respect_n of_o feel_v evil_a but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o convert_v make_v the_o right_a use_n of_o the_o discovery_n of_o these_o evil_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o relief_n therefrom_o it_o be_v a_o good_a condition_n because_o the_o disease_a convert_n carry_v himself_o well_o and_o wise_o in_o this_o exercise_n of_o the_o second_o sort_n be_v the_o convert_v condition_n when_o his_o faith_n be_v put_v to_o trial_n by_o manifold_a affliction_n and_o tentation_n and_o he_o conceive_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o a_o very_a evil_a condition_n wherein_o he_o ought_v not_o to_o afflict_v himself_o but_o to_o judge_v this_o condition_n to_o be_v a_o good_a condition_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n jam._n 1._o 2_o 3._o my_o brethren_n count_v it_o all_o joy_n when_o you_o fall_v in_o divers_a tentation_n know_v that_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n work_v patience_n of_o the_o three_o sort_n be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o convert_n who_o when_o for_o example_n he_o feel_v himself_o unapt_a and_o unable_a to_o pray_v or_o praise_n or_o discharge_v any_o duty_n hearty_o do_v not_o trouble_v himself_o with_o this_o his_o ill_a case_n but_o either_o layeth-by_a the_o do_n of_o the_o duty_n or_o do_v the_o work_n negligent_o and_o perfunctorious_o and_o please_v himself_o in_o so_o do_v for_o a_o time_n this_o condition_n be_v evil_a indeed_o both_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o spiritual_a disease_n and_o of_o his_o sinful_a slight_v the_o duty_n of_o seek_v relief_n thereof_o 5._o for_o rectify_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o any_o or_o all_o of_o those_o condition_n first_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o the_o sinful_a disease_n and_o distemper_n of_o our_o spirit_n which_o be_v evil_a indeed_o and_o the_o discovery_n thereof_o unto_o we_o which_o be_v a_o benefit_n in_o itself_o and_o a_o gift_n of_o eyesalve_n bestow_v by_o christ_n upon_o we_o and_o the_o right_a use_n of_o that_o discovery_n by_o fly_v unto_o christ_n which_o be_v yet_o a_o great_a blessing_n even_o the_o work_n of_o god_n draw_v we_o to_o the_o saviour_n of_o soul_n the_o remedy_n of_o every_o evil_a second_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o tentation_n or_o trial_n of_o faith_n and_o yield_v to_o tentation_n under_o affliction_n the_o observation_n of_o tentation_n offer_v to_o make_v we_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n in_o trial_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o joy_n but_o yield_v be_v a_o sin_n and_o mater_fw-la of_o
the_o son_n of_o god_n but_o his_o holy_a heart_n can_v not_o admit_v such_o a_o temptation_n and_o the_o apostle_n eph._n 6._o 11_o 12._o etc._n etc._n do_v warn_v the_o saint_n that_o our_o adversary_n satan_n use_v to_o throw_v fiery_a dart_n at_o all_o the_o child_n of_o god_n which_o fiery_a and_o poisonable_a dart_n the_o regenerate_a man_n shall_v not_o meddle_v with_o nor_o finger_v they_o but_o by_o the_o shield_n of_o faith_n with_o all_o speed_n quench_v and_o extinguish_v they_o but_o when_o a_o probable_a reason_n be_v join_v with_o the_o temptation_n and_o the_o temptation_n do_v appear_v to_o be_v very_o reasonable_a and_o when_o there_o be_v a_o fear_n that_o the_o tentation_n shall_v be_v yield_v unto_o except_o the_o scruple_n be_v remove_v then_o let_v the_o temptation_n be_v examine_v and_o bring_v to_o the_o form_n of_o a_o reason_n or_o sylogism_n that_o the_o strength_n of_o it_o be_v try_v to_o be_v null_a it_o may_v be_v reject_v or_o let_v the_o temptation_n be_v communicate_v to_o a_o prudent_a friend_n or_o pastor_n who_o may_v discover_v the_o sophistry_n of_o the_o temptation_n for_o if_o the_o temptation_n shall_v be_v slight_v and_o not_o discuss_v albeit_o it_o lie_v quiet_a for_o a_o time_n yet_o it_o will_v return_v again_o and_o raise_v more_o trouble_n and_o vexation_n to_o the_o conscience_n than_o it_o do_v before_o 11._o in_o answer_v of_o doubt_n and_o temptation_n tend_v to_o weaken_v faith_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o observe_v and_o ishew_v a_o usual_a stratagem_n of_o satan_n whereby_o he_o do_v multiply_v and_o heap_v together_o a_o number_n of_o doubt_n and_o after_o he_o have_v suggest_v one_o doubt_n present_o do_v suggest_v on_o the_o back_n of_o that_o another_o and_o after_o that_o another_o whereby_o he_o mar_v the_o answer_n of_o the_o first_o doubt_n which_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o some_o faithful_a friend_n or_o minister_n be_v offer_v for_o solution_n thereof_o by_o this_o mean_a satan_n endeavour_v that_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o afflict_a person_n may_v at_o one_o time_n both_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o answer_n offer_v and_o be_v take_v up_o whole_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o new_a suggest_a doubt_n so_o that_o the_o answer_n to_o the_o new_a doubt_n have_v no_o place_n because_o the_o afflict_a party_n do_v not_o take_v heed_n thereto_o in_o this_o case_n both_o the_o party_n afflict_v and_o the_o party_n offer_v consolation_n must_v hold_v to_o the_o first_o doubt_n and_o not_o suffer_v any_o other_o new_a doubt_n to_o have_v place_n till_o a_o satisfactory_a answer_n be_v give_v to_o the_o first_o doubt_n and_o after_o that_o let_v every_o objection_n move_v by_o the_o party_n afflict_v be_v answer_v one_o after_o another_o in_o order_n 12._o see_v every_o doubt_n whereby_o the_o regenerate_a person_n be_v trouble_v do_v tend_v either_o to_o weaken_v faith_n in_o christ_n or_o to_o hinder_v the_o bring_v forth_o of_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n let_v no_o answer_n to_o any_o doubt_n of_o this_o kind_n be_v esteem_v sufficient_a except_o it_o lead_v the_o afflict_a person_n unto_o christ_n teach_v he_o to_o humble_v himself_o before_o god_n and_o be_v bring_v low_o in_o his_o own_o eye_n to_o lay_v hold_n by_o faith_n on_o jesus_n christ_n the_o only_a redeemer_n and_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o after_o lay_v hold_n on_o the_o physician_n to_o request_v for_o the_o remedy_n of_o that_o evil_n which_o have_v move_v and_o give_v strength_n to_o the_o doubt_n for_o christ_n be_v the_o end_n both_o of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o every_o spiritual_a exercise_n for_o the_o enjoin_v of_o such_o and_o such_o moral_a duty_n whereby_o unskillful_a physician_n use_v to_o over-charge_n disease_a conscience_n command_v the_o afflict_a party_n in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o go_v about_o such_o and_o such_o duty_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n as_o may_v remove_v the_o evil_n which_o give_v ground_n to_o the_o doubt_n can_v never_o avail_v the_o disease_a person_n except_o he_o be_v lead_v first_o unto_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o acceptation_n of_o his_o person_n that_o in_o he_o power_n to_o do_v these_o duty_n may_v be_v obtain_v and_o by_o his_o spirit_n moral_a precept_n may_v be_v quicken_v for_o if_o these_o precept_n be_v press_v upon_o the_o disease_a without_o christ_n they_o can_v do_v no_o more_o but_o detain_v the_o afflict_a in_o self_n confidence_n and_o make_v he_o hope_v in_o vain_a that_o he_o may_v or_o can_v by_o his_o own_o work_n overcome_v the_o evil_n feel_v in_o he_o or_o that_o he_o can_v by_o himself_o attain_v to_o that_o good_a which_o he_o conceive_v necessary_a for_o lose_v of_o his_o doubt_n but_o let_v he_o go_v to_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o then_o for_o strength_n to_o go_v about_o the_o duty_n 13._o because_o almost_o in_o all_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o pertain_v to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n some_o grace_n or_o christian_a virtue_n be_v pitch_v upon_o and_o call_v in_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o he_o or_o not_o heed_n must_v be_v take_v that_o evangelic_n grace_n virtue_n or_o action_n be_v not_o weigh_v in_o the_o balance_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n wherein_o nothing_o have_v weight_n which_o come_v short_a of_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o personal_a obedience_n for_o in_o the_o strict_a judgement_n of_o god_n and_o the_o conscience_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o work_n no_o mere_a man_n nor_o any_o action_n of_o man_n can_v stand_v ps._n 130._o 3._o for_o there_o be_v so_o many_o imperfection_n and_o blemish_n in_o the_o saint_n and_o their_o best_a work_n be_v compare_v with_o the_o perfect_a rule_n of_o righteousness_n by_o the_o law_n that_o whatsoever_o lustre_n or_o appearance_n of_o good_a may_v be_v in_o a_o work_n it_o be_v bleck_v and_o make_v to_o hide_v its_o face_n before_o the_o law_n but_o let_v the_o tender_a bud_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o fruit_n of_o faith_n be_v examine_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o judge_v of_o the_o begin_v obedience_n of_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o man_n aim_v at_o conformity_n to_o the_o law_n how_o short_a soever_o he_o come_v of_o his_o aim_n and_o of_o the_o spiritual_a perfection_n of_o the_o law_n and_o it_o will_v be_v take_v for_o new_a obedience_n it_o be_v true_a the_o evangel_n require_v that_o a_o man_n flee_v to_o christ_n for_o justification_n and_o reconcile_v to_o god_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n shall_v set_v himself_o to_o work_v the_o work_v prescribe_v in_o the_o moral_a law_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o shall_v aim_v at_o the_o exact_a obedience_n of_o all_o the_o command_n yet_o the_o gospel_n do_v not_o reject_v a_o good_a work_n for_o the_o defect_n imperfection_n and_o blemish_n thereof_o but_o accept_v and_o take_v in_o good_a part_n the_o first_o fruit_n and_o bud_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o do_v foster_v the_o tender_a and_o small_a beginning_n that_o they_o may_v grow_v and_o increase_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o gospel_n do_v not_o teach_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o justification_n of_o our_o person_n before_o god_n by_o work_n but_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o then_o teach_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o justification_n of_o our_o faith_n before_o man_n in_o our_o own_o and_o other_o conscience_n by_o the_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o therefore_o 14._o while_o we_o be_v about_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o wound_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o strengthen_n of_o faith_n we_o must_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n take_v heed_n leave_v we_o foster_v presumption_n and_o hinder_v either_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o do_v diligence_n in_o follow_v duty_n for_o christian_a grace_n do_v not_o impede_fw-la but_o help_v and_o strengthen_v one_o another_o if_o they_o be_v real_a and_o kind_o because_o they_o must_v flow_v from_o the_o same_o fountain_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o sanctification_n and_o do_v run_v towards_o the_o same_o end_n which_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n lest_o we_o press_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n as_o it_o be_v out_o of_o our_o own_o strength_n or_o the_o practice_n of_o duty_n so_o as_o we_o hinder_v the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n who_o be_v that_o exalt_a prince_n to_o give_v repentance_n and_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o faith_n let_v we_o so_o cry_v up_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n that_o we_o neglect_v not_o to_o press_v the_o regenerate_a man_n free_o justify_v by_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o
than_o the_o sensible_a comfort_n thereof_o remain_v with_o he_o but_o either_o do_v retreat_v his_o judgement_n of_o his_o bless_a estate_n or_o do_v not_o defend_v his_o right_n do_v not_o resist_v satan_n by_o be_v steadfast_a in_o the_o faith_n no_o wonder_n his_o disquietness_n and_o dejection_n of_o courage_n return_v upon_o he_o 6._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o spiritual_a consolation_n and_o sensible_a feel_n of_o god_n favour_n be_v grant_v to_o god_n child_n to_o make_v they_o steadfast_a in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n grace_n towards_o they_o when_o sensible_a comfort_n be_v with-drawn_a and_o when_o they_o be_v put_v to_o the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n of_o their_o faith_n under_o trouble_n and_o temptation_n and_o therefore_o when_o the_o afflicted_a once_o be_v make_v clear_a of_o his_o interest_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o keep_n on_o he_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n do_v find_v a_o change_n in_o his_o condition_n let_v he_o present_o humble_a himself_o before_o god_n in_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o and_o of_o whatsoever_o evil_a fruit_n it_o have_v bring_v forth_o whereby_o he_o have_v procure_v the_o change_n of_o his_o own_o comfortable_a condition_n and_o let_v he_o 〈◊〉_d the_o act_n of_o his_o repentance_n and_o of_o his_o 〈◊〉_d in_o christ_n strive_v against_o all_o temptation_n for_o the_o 〈◊〉_d once_o give_v to_o he_o and_o dispute_v for_o his_o right_n and_o interest_n unto_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v with_o patience_n obtain_v the_o victory_n over_o his_o temptation_n and_o be_v able_a not_o only_o with_o dâ—vid_n to_o charge_v his_o own_o soul_n to_o trust_v in_o god_n the_o help_n and_o health_n of_o his_o countenance_n ps._n 42._o and_o 43._o but_o also_o to_o glory_v with_o the_o apostle_n and_o to_o say_v 2_o tim._n 1._o 22._o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v unto_o he_o against_o that_o day_n and_o so_o may_v the_o second_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v remove_v 7._o a_o three_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o a_o sincere_a convert_n find_v himself_o come_v short_a both_o of_o his_o purpose_n and_o hope_n of_o make_v progress_n in_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o reformation_n of_o heart_n and_o conversation_n shall_v in_o 〈◊〉_d of_o be_v more_o humble_v and_o beat_v more_o out_o of_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o strength_n and_o work_n and_o in_o 〈◊〉_d of_o lay_v 〈◊〉_d hold_v on_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n 〈…〉_z discouragement_n and_o so_o open_a a_o 〈…〉_z call_n his_o own_o conversion_n in_o question_n in_o this_o case_n the_o 〈…〉_z of_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v augment_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o sincerity_n in_o his_o couversion_n wherein_o he_o renounce_v the_o love_n and_o service_n of_o all_o sin_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o worth_n or_o work_n do_v fly_v unto_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o christ_n and_o receive_v he_o hearty_o and_o purpose_v honest_o to_o serve_v god_n thereafter_o in_o newness_n of_o life_n which_o make_v he_o say_v in_o himself_o i_o can_v never_o put_v repentance_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o purpose_n of_o new_a obedience_n more_o sincere_o in_o exercise_n than_o i_o have_v do_v and_o now_o see_v i_o come_v short_a of_o my_o purpose_n and_o hope_n of_o profit_v and_o can_v never_o more_o sincere_o repent_v of_o sin_n or_o believe_v in_o christ_n then_o i_o have_v do_v have_v i_o not_o just_a cause_n of_o doubt_v of_o my_o estate_n and_o of_o discouragement_n and_o disquietness_n 8._o for_o remove_v this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o purpose_n and_o practice_n a_o holy_a and_o sincere_a purpose_n oâ—t_a time_n come_v short_a in_o practice_n for_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 7_o 18._o to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o i_o but_o how_o to_o perform_v that_o which_o be_v good_a i_o find_v not_o the_o inlake_n here_o be_v of_o strength_n to_o perform_v and_o not_o in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o will_n and_o purpose_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o consent_n of_o a_o well-informed_n conscience_n to_o the_o discharge_n of_o holy_a duty_n and_o the_o practical_a come_n up_o of_o the_o not_o well-reformed_n heart_n unto_o the_o actual_a discharge_n of_o those_o duty_n for_o ofttimes_o the_o heart_n be_v like_o a_o deceitful_a bow_n that_o disappoint_v the_o archer_n therefore_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a deny_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o purpose_n but_o let_v he_o be_v humble_v for_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o heart_n which_o have_v not_o answer_v his_o purpose_n and_o expectation_n three_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a think_v that_o he_o have_v so_o full_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n as_o he_o conceive_v we_o may_v be_v clear_o convince_v not_o to_o lean_v to_o our_o own_o righteousness_n and_o so_o more_o easy_o in_o our_o judgement_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o good_a behaviour_n but_o the_o dregs_o of_o the_o sin_n of_o misbelieve_a jew_n be_v not_o easy_o purge_v out_o of_o we_o wherein_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n and_o do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n rom._n 9_o and_o 10._o 3._o as_o he_o therefore_o who_o deny_v that_o he_o lean_v his_o weight_n on_o his_o staff_n and_o yet_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n when_o his_o staff_n do_v slide_v be_v find_v to_o have_v lean_v more_o weight_n on_o his_o staff_n then_o he_o pretend_v so_o he_o be_v find_v to_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o his_o own_o work_n who_o be_v cast_v down_o because_o his_o performance_n be_v not_o answerable_a to_o his_o purpose_n and_o hope_n humble_v indeed_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o to_o lament_v his_o misery_n under_o the_o body_n of_o death_n but_o not_o be_v so_o deject_v and_o discourage_v as_o to_o loose_v or_o sâ—cken_v his_o grip_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n especial_o when_o he_o do_v consider_v that_o the_o lord_n by_o this_o experience_n of_o his_o own_o weakness_n be_v teach_v he_o thereafter_o to_o have_v a_o more_o high_a estimation_n and_o make_v better_a use_n of_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n and_o to_o lean_v less_o to_o his_o own_o purpose_n and_o promise_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n that_o so_o he_o may_v draw_v more_o ability_n from_o christ_n by_o faith_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n for_o without_o i_o say_v christ_n you_o can_v do_v nothing_o joh._n 15._o 5._o last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o neither_o say_v nor_o think_v that_o he_o can_v put_v forth_o any_o act_n of_o repentance_n or_o say_v or_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n more_o sincere_o than_o he_o have_v do_v for_o no_o man_n have_v attain_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o any_o act_n of_o save_a grace_n but_o there_o be_v room_n for_o he_o to_o receive_v a_o great_a measure_n both_o of_o activity_n and_o sincerity_n in_o act_v than_o he_o have_v attain_v already_o but_o rather_o let_v he_o examine_v more_o narrow_o and_o find_v out_o the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o lean_v to_o its_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o difficulty_n of_o subject_v itself_o whole_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o â—aith_n and_o sanctification_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o this_o do_v the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o to_o do_v philip._n 3._o 12_o 13_o 14._o he_o do_v not_o think_v himself_o already_o perfect_a but_o reach_v himself_o forth_o to_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v before_o he_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o the_o end_n of_o the_o press_n of_o the_o law_n be_v that_o sin_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_o discover_v that_o as_o sin_n have_v reign_v unto_o death_n even_o so_o may_v grace_v reign_n through_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n râ—m_n 5._o 20_o 21._o 9_o the_o four_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a conuâ—rt_n be_v frequent_o convince_v of_o the_o manifold_a deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o this_o cause_n shall_v begin_v to_o call_v in_o question_n all_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o which_o inconvenience_n do_v flow_v from_o his_o not_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o true_a consent_n of_o the_o heart_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o act_n of_o holiness_n in_o so_o far_o as_o the_o heart_n be_v renew_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o doubt_v
of_o grace_n because_o he_o find_v himself_o frequent_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n experience_n teach_v that_o sundry_a true_a convert_n because_o they_o feel_v themselves_o ofttimes_o in_o a_o ill_a condition_n do_v call_v in_o question_n their_o be_v in_o the_o bless_a state_n of_o grace_n not_o consider_v that_o the_o condition_n of_o a_o man_n whether_o in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n unrenewed_a or_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n may_v be_v comparative_o in_o better_a or_o worse_a condition_n and_o yet_o his_o state_n remain_v the_o same_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o misbelieve_a hebrew_n be_v in_o a_o evil_a condition_n at_o the_o one_o side_n of_o the_o red_a sea_n when_o they_o repent_v their_o come_n out_o of_o egypt_n but_o in_o a_o better_a condition_n when_o they_o do_v sing_v praise_n unto_o god_n on_o the_o other_o side_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o yet_o for_o their_o state_n some_o be_v yea_o most_o part_n still_o in_o nature_n unrenewed_a moses_n and_o aaron_n be_v in_o a_o evil_a condition_n when_o their_o passion_n offend_v god_n at_o the_o smite_v of_o the_o rock_n but_o when_o they_o do_v intercede_v with_o god_n for_o the_o people_n when_o wrath_n be_v kindle_v against_o the_o host_n they_o be_v in_o a_o better_a condition_n and_o both_o in_o the_o one_o time_n and_o in_o the_o other_o they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n true_a saint_n in_o god_n estimation_n this_o mistake_n of_o the_o weak_a in_o faith_n not_o put_v difference_n between_o their_o present_a disposition_n and_o their_o state_n make_v they_o judge_v of_o themselves_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n when_o their_o condition_n be_v good_a and_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n unrenewed_a when_o they_o feel_v themselves_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n when_o they_o observe_v their_o heart_n enlarge_v to_o run_v the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n than_o they_o esteem_v themselves_o true_o regenerate_v and_o when_o they_o feel_v themselves_o sluggish_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n dull_a in_o hear_v the_o word_n flow_v to_o believe_v what_o the_o scripture_n speak_v when_o they_o esteem_v their_o ordinary_a service_n to_o be_v after_o a_o form_n of_o godliness_n without_o affection_n and_o power_n and_o what_o service_n they_o do_v to_o proceed_v from_o fear_n of_o wrath_n rather_o than_o from_o the_o new_a and_o right_a principle_n of_o a_o regenerate_a man_n than_o they_o question_v all_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o themselves_o what_o shall_v i_o think_v say_v the_o afflict_a concern_v my_o state_n in_o grace_n when_o i_o find_v my_o condition_n so_o frequent_o not_o only_a short_a of_o what_o it_o shall_v be_v but_o also_o pollute_v with_o divers_a sort_n of_o sin_n 2._o for_o answer_v we_o must_v grant_v that_o the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n may_v be_v discharge_v from_o fleshly_a and_o corrupt_a principle_n for_o many_o do_v perform_v command_v external_a duty_n that_o they_o may_v eshew_v the_o reproach_n of_o impiety_n or_o that_o they_o may_v insinuat_fw-la themselves_z in_o the_o good_a estimation_n and_o favour_n of_o the_o godly_a or_o for_o some_o base_a earthly_a end_n for_o which_o gross_a hypocrite_n do_v whatsoever_o they_o do_v in_o religion_n like_o unto_o these_o be_v all_o self-deceiving_a hypocrite_n who_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n misken_v that_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o god_n by_o faith_n as_o if_o god_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o take_v their_o performance_n for_o a_o full_a satisfaction_n for_o their_o former_a sin_n and_o will_v look_v upon_o their_o work_n as_o meritorious_a of_o eternal_a life_n and_o therefore_o because_o man_n may_v deceive_v themselves_o 1._o the_o afflict_a shall_v do_v well_o to_o examine_v himself_o whether_o he_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n or_o his_o own_o work_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o and_o flee_v unto_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n with_o some_o measure_n of_o honest_a endeavour_v to_o worship_n and_o serve_v god_n in_o his_o spirit_n which_o if_o his_o conscience_n can_v witness_v unto_o he_o to_o be_v his_o way_n wherein_o he_o be_v walk_v then_o may_v he_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n 2._o and_o albeit_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o imperfection_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n do_v many_o time_n obscure_v his_o state_n in_o grace_n yet_o can_v they_o not_o extinguish_v the_o sponk_n of_o regeneration_n begin_v in_o he_o or_o prove_v the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o he_o not_o to_o be_v at_o all_o 3._o we_o grant_v that_o the_o condition_n of_o a_o true_a convert_n at_o sometime_o may_v be_v so_o bad_a by_o reason_n of_o sinful_a distemper_n and_o fleshly_a carriage_n that_o many_o unrenewed_a man_n conversation_n shall_v be_v find_v far_o more_o commendable_a than_o the_o present_a condition_n and_o carriage_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n in_o his_o sinful_a condition_n in_o which_o case_n neither_o god_n nor_o his_o own_o conscience_n nor_o any_o that_o fear_v god_n can_v speak_v any_o thing_n but_o wrath_n to_o he_o till_o he_o repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n for_o mercy_n in_o christ_n yet_o the_o afflict_a penitent_a convert_n lament_v his_o bad_a condition_n be_v in_o better_a case_n than_o any_o unrenewed_a man_n can_v be_v into_o for_o the_o very_a grief_n and_o perplexity_n which_o he_o find_v because_o his_o condition_n be_v so_o oft_o ill_a and_o sinful_a prove_v his_o good_a affection_n towards_o god_n and_o his_o earnest_a desire_n to_o walk_v before_o god_n unto_o all_o well-pleasing_a in_o all_o thing_n and_o at_o all_o time_n 3._o but_o if_o the_o afflict_a shall_v insist_v and_o object_n that_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n ordinary_o be_v a_o main_a motive_n which_o set_v he_o on_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n and_o service_n which_o god_n require_v of_o he_o and_o not_o the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o feel_a in-lake_n whereof_o do_v make_v he_o go_v on_o halt_v and_o heavy_a in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n we_o answer_v that_o albeit_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n look_v upon_o alone_o do_v not_o prove_v regeneration_n yet_o it_o may_v well_o consist_v with_o regeneration_n because_o god_n do_v not_o for_o nought_o join_v with_o his_o precept_n fearful_a threaten_n of_o judgement_n against_o those_o who_o shall_v transgress_v his_o command_n that_o they_o may_v be_v as_o a_o spur_n in_o his_o child_n side_n to_o press_v they_o to_o their_o duty_n and_o as_o a_o bridle_n to_o curb_v and_o check_v their_o vicious_a inclination_n unto_o sin_n which_o lodge_v in_o all_o man_n by_o nature_n and_o this_o motive_n be_v evident_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o prophet_n ps_n 119._o 120._o my_o flesh_n tremble_v for_o fear_n of_o thou_o and_o i_o be_o afraid_a of_o thy_o judgement_n 2._o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o afflict_a late_o convert_v unto_o god_n be_v not_o free_a as_o yet_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n but_o be_v keep_v in_o some_o measure_n under_o the_o bond_n of_o servile_a fear_n god_n so_o dispose_v for_o the_o humble_n exercise_v and_o train_n of_o his_o child_n late_o enter_v in_o his_o holy_a warfare_n in_o which_o condition_n his_o fear_n be_v commendable_a when_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o sinful_a short-coming_a in_o god_n service_n and_o of_o the_o prevail_a of_o his_o corruption_n against_o the_o begin_a work_n of_o renovation_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a go_v about_o the_o discharge_n of_o command_v duty_n in_o his_o christian_n calling_n and_o particular_a station_n wherein_o god_n have_v place_v he_o in_o what_o condition_n soever_o he_o shall_v find_v himself_o 2._o let_v he_o compare_v his_o present_a condition_n which_o he_o do_v count_v a_o ill_a condition_n with_o the_o bygone_a better_a condition_n whereof_o he_o have_v have_v possible_o experience_n frequent_o and_o when_o he_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o comfort_n he_o have_v have_v and_o the_o enlargement_n of_o heart_n to_o run_v in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n in_o hope_n of_o a_o change_n of_o his_o present_a condition_n to_o the_o better_a in_o hope_n of_o find_v renew_v blink_v of_o the_o lord_n countenance_n let_v he_o humble_o wait_v on_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v till_o the_o daystar_n arise_v in_o his_o heart_n pray_v with_o the_o psalmist_n that_o god_n will_v quicken_v he_o according_a to_o his_o love_a kindness_n 3._o let_v he_o cleave_v the_o more_o close_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n withal_o give_v thanks_o unto_o god_n for_o the_o grace_n bestow_v on_o he_o for_o the_o give_v unto_o he_o eyesalve_n to_o see_v his_o blindness_n nakedness_n and_o misery_n and_o for_o make_v sin_n odious_a and_o grievous_a unto_o he_o in_o any_o measure_n
sorrow_n indeed_o three_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o grief_n of_o mind_n or_o heaviness_n in_o affliction_n and_o anguish_n of_o conscience_n for_o sin_n commit_v for_o a_o man_n may_v have_v a_o grieve_a mind_n and_o a_o quiet_a conscience_n at_o one_o time_n four_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o our_o sinful_a sickness_n of_o indisposition_n to_o spiritual_a duty_n for_o which_o we_o shall_v be_v humble_v and_o god_n dispensation_n for_o the_o time_n partly_o chastise_v we_o with_o a_o less_o and_o more_o spare_a measure_n of_o ability_n for_o these_o duty_n and_o partly_o teach_v we_o thereby_o to_o make_v better_a use_n of_o christ_n office_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o help_v and_o heal_v our_o infirmity_n than_o we_o have_v make_v five_o let_v difference_n be_v put_v between_o god_n part_n and_o satan_n the_o world_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n part_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n god_n part_n be_v ever_o wise_a holy_a just_a and_o gracious_a tend_v to_o bring_v his_o child_n unto_o a_o good_a and_o better_a condition_n satan_n the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n part_n be_v to_o procure_v and_o hold_v on_o and_o make_v worse_o an_o evil_a condition_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n be_v variable_a as_o it_o fall_v forth_o in_o the_o battle_n against_o the_o flesh_n which_o lust_n against_o the_o spirit_n and_o it_o against_o the_o flesh_n so_o that_o neither_o of_o they_o have_v the_o victory_n always_o till_o the_o warfare_n be_v end_v and_o grace_n be_v crown_v with_o glory_n for_o and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n these_o difference_n be_v observe_v the_o conscience_n may_v discern_v between_o a_o good_a or_o evil_a condition_n so_o much_o the_o better_o 6._o one_o and_o the_o same_o convert_n may_v observe_v in_o himself_o if_o not_o all_o yet_o the_o vicissitude_n of_o the_o most_o notable_a change_n of_o a_o spiritual_a condition_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o some_o especial_o of_o his_o minister_n of_o who_o exercise_n he_o be_v to_o make_v use_n for_o the_o consolation_n of_o his_o afflict_a people_n which_o minister_n may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 6._o whether_o we_o be_v afflict_v it_o be_v for_o your_o consolation_n and_o salvation_n which_o be_v effectual_a in_o the_o endure_a of_o the_o same_o suffering_n which_o we_o also_o suffer_v or_o whether_o we_o be_v comfort_v it_o be_v for_o your_o consolation_n and_o salvation_n 7._o sundry_a convert_n may_v be_v diverse_o dispose_v and_o exercise_v about_o the_o same_o evil_a or_o spiritual_a disease_n for_o one_o under_o the_o observation_n of_o his_o evil_a case_n may_v wrestle_v against_o it_o and_o not_o call_v his_o own_o bless_a state_n in_o question_n another_o under_o the_o same_o disease_n may_v fall_v in_o question_n and_o doubt_n whether_o he_o who_o be_v in_o such_o a_o condition_n may_v be_v a_o true_a convert_n or_o not_o and_o his_o person_n in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o yea_o one_o and_o the_o same_o convert_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o ill_a condition_n while_o he_o first_o enter_v in_o conflict_n with_o his_o evil_a condition_n may_v for_o a_o time_n look_v upon_o himself_o as_o a_o true_a convert_n notwithstanding_o of_o his_o present_a ill_a condition_n but_o afterward_o when_o he_o find_v his_o evil_a condition_n to_o remain_v and_o not_o likely_a to_o be_v remove_v he_o may_v fall_v in_o doubt_n about_o the_o state_n of_o his_o person_n whether_o he_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n or_o not_o in_o which_o case_n let_v he_o make_v use_n as_o be_v say_v in_o the_o former_a book_n 8._o the_o variety_n of_o change_n of_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n arise_v from_o the_o variety_n of_o the_o cause_n thereof_o as_o for_o example_n 1._o sometime_o in_o the_o warfare_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n the_o new_a creature_n prevail_v sometime_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o both_o of_o they_o prevail_v sometime_o more_o sometime_o less_o whence_o vicissitude_n of_o change_n of_o condition_n can_v but_o follow_v 2._o sometime_o satan_n temptation_n set_v on_o in_o his_o assault_n more_o or_o less_o furious_o or_o more_o or_o less_o subtle_o do_v make_v diversity_n of_o condition_n as_o satan_n be_v more_o or_o less_o wise_o resist_v 3._o sometime_o the_o lord_n hide_v his_o countenance_n from_o his_o child_n more_o or_o less_o sometime_o in_o adversity_n sometime_o in_o outward_a prosperity_n as_o his_o wisdom_n find_v it_o meet_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o belove_a child_n 9_o sometime_o the_o conscience_n do_v discern_v a_o evil_a condition_n and_o do_v give_v forth_o a_o right_a sentence_n about_o it_o in_o which_o case_n let_v use_n be_v make_v of_o the_o ordinar_n remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n as_o 1._o let_v the_o afflict_a search_n into_o the_o cause_n which_o have_v procure_v his_o evil_a condition_n as_o the_o lord_n after_o prayer_n shall_v furnish_v light_n 2._o let_v he_o acknowledge_v his_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n and_o the_o lord_n holy_a wise_a and_o righteous_a dispensation_n 3._o let_v he_o grow_v in_o humiliation_n and_o in_o diffidence_n of_o his_o own_o wisdom_n ability_n and_o righteousness_n 4._o let_v he_o renew_v the_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o mortify_v the_o root_n of_o it_o and_o for_o let_v forth_o his_o help_a hand_n for_o ability_n to_o make_v he_o watch_v over_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o way_n and_o to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n 10._o when_o the_o convert_v conscience_n fail_v in_o right_o judge_v of_o its_o own_o ill_a condition_n 1_o it_o either_o take_v a_o ill_a condition_n to_o be_v good_a and_o in_o this_o case_n it_o be_v silent_a and_o say_v nothing_o but_o lie_v secure_a and_o well_o please_v without_o cause_n or_o 2._o it_o judge_v a_o good_a condition_n to_o be_v altogether_o bad_a or_o at_o least_o not_o so_o good_a as_o it_o be_v indeed_o or_o 3._o it_o do_v not_o distinguish_v a_o good_a or_o ill_a condition_n simple_o from_o a_o condition_n partly_o good_a and_o partly_o evil_a or_o 4._o it_o stand_v in_o doubt_n what_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o man_n condition_n be_v uncertain_a what_o to_o pronounce_v of_o it_o till_o light_v dispel_v the_o mist_n and_o confusion_n wherein_o it_o lie_v for_o the_o time_n let_v we_o instance_n some_o case_n and_o example_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o four_o kind_n chap._n two_o wherein_o be_v handle_v the_o case_n of_o such_o as_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n and_o be_v well_o please_v in_o this_o case_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o some_o case_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o convert_n be_v deceive_v by_o judge_v the_o man_n evil_a condition_n to_o be_v good_a enough_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v sundry_a time_n that_o the_o renew_a man_n seem_v both_o to_o himself_o and_o other_o also_o to_o go_v on_o in_o bring_v forth_o external_a fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n his_o love_n to_o christ_n be_v much_o abate_v and_o cool_v towards_o he_o in_o comparison_n of_o the_o fervency_n which_o in_o his_o first_o conversion_n he_o have_v whence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o his_o work_n in_o his_o call_n be_v discharge_v without_o that_o eye_n and_o affection_n towards_o christ_n which_o sometime_o he_o carry_v towards_o he_o for_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o conversion_n when_o remission_n of_o sin_n reconciliation_n with_o god_n and_o the_o bless_a change_n make_v in_o his_o state_n through_o christ_n be_v green_a and_o fresh_a in_o his_o present_a sense_n how_o dear_a christ_n be_v unto_o he_o can_v be_v express_v but_o this_o fervour_n ofttimes_o do_v cool_a when_o his_o wont_a estimation_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o entertain_v as_o appear_v in_o the_o galatian_n who_o at_o their_o conversion_n be_v carry_v with_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o love_n towards_o christ_n that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v possible_a they_o will_v have_v pluck_v out_o their_o own_o eye_n and_o give_v they_o to_o the_o apostle_n paul_n for_o christ_n cause_n gal._n 4._o 15._o and_o yet_o this_o love_n do_v soon_o cool_a both_o towards_o christ_n and_o the_o apostle_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v also_o ofttimes_o that_o the_o renew_a man_n content_v himself_o with_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o the_o consolation_n which_o once_o he_o feel_v resolve_v to_o go_v on_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o christian_a duty_n in_o his_o call_n and_o either_o do_v not_o observe_v this_o cool_n of_o his_o love_n to_o christ_n or_o lay_v it_o not_o to_o heart_n but_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n as_o sufficient_a to_o carry_v a_o convert_a man_n to_o heaven_n and_o so_o usual_o three_o fault_n do_v concur_v in_o this_o sickness_n the_o first_o be_v
a_o notable_a defection_n from_o aim_v at_o the_o measure_n feel_v in_o his_o first_o love_n at_o his_o conversion_n for_o we_o speak_v not_o here_o of_o daily_a distemper_n which_o the_o convert_n do_v mark_n and_o mourn_v for_o and_o be_v about_o to_o have_v heal_v by_o bring_v his_o wound_n unto_o christ_n to_o be_v cure_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n daily_o the_o second_o be_v the_o not_o observe_v of_o this_o decay_n of_o love_n or_o the_o man_n ignorance_n of_o his_o duty_n to_o entertain_v communion_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o daily_a sin_n want_n and_o wound_n for_o the_o remove_n and_o cure_v whereof_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v love_v daily_o no_o less_o than_o at_o the_o man_n his_o first_o conversion_n the_o three_o be_v the_o man_n be_v well_o please_v with_o this_o condition_n so_o long_o as_o his_o conversation_n be_v blameless_a whereof_o we_o have_v a_o instance_n in_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o ephesian_n rev._n 2._o who_o labour_n in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n zeal_n against_o hypocrite_n patience_n in_o trouble_n for_o christ_n cause_n be_v commend_v by_o christ._n but_o he_o reprove_v they_o first_o because_o they_o have_v leave_v their_o first_o love_n and_o do_v not_o only_o come_v short_a of_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o first_o love_n but_o do_v not_o lay_v to_o heart_n this_o sin_n do_v not_o repent_v it_o or_o take_v course_n to_o have_v that_o measure_n recover_v thou_o have_v leave_v or_o lay_v down_o thy_o first_o love_n that_o be_v 1._o thou_o have_v remit_v and_o come_v short_a of_o that_o measure_n of_o love_n which_o former_o thou_o have_v 2._o thou_o have_v not_o be_v displease_v with_o thyself_o in_o this_o thy_o defection_n 3._o thou_o have_v lay_v aside_o the_o care_n of_o recover_v the_o measure_n of_o thy_o former_a love_n this_o condition_n be_v very_o dangerous_a as_o be_v manifest_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o galatian_n who_o fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n do_v cast_v themselves_o open_a to_o superstition_n and_o error_n and_o in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n by_o their_o defection_n from_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o gospel_n once_o receive_v the_o reason_n for_o which_o we_o say_v this_o defection_n in_o love_n be_v dangerous_a be_v three_o the_o first_o be_v this_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o rejoice_v in_o he_o be_v less_o than_o his_o excellency_n and_o merit_n at_o our_o hand_n do_v deserve_v if_o therefore_o we_o shall_v slide_v from_o our_o duty_n in_o aim_v to_o hold_v up_o this_o measure_n of_o love_n to_o he_o which_o we_o have_v once_o attain_v and_o cease_v to_o grow_v therein_o because_o his_o new_a mercy_n be_v daily_o let_v forth_o upon_o we_o from_o day_n to_o day_n in_o effect_n we_o judge_v our_o first_o love_n have_v be_v too_o too_o vehement_a and_o so_o christ_n be_v light_o esteem_v of_o as_o if_o he_o be_v not_o still_o to_o be_v love_v withal_o our_o mind_n heart_n and_o strength_n the_o next_o reason_n be_v this_o when_o love_n to_o christ_n to_o his_o ordinance_n and_o sanctify_a one_o begin_v to_o relent_v and_o cool_v incontinent_a the_o external_a exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o righteousness_n begin_v to_o fall_v short_a of_o this_o principle_n of_o love_n and_o to_o go_v on_o more_o and_o more_o slow_o and_o so_o piece_n and_o piece_n to_o decay_v for_o as_o when_o a_o tree_n be_v smite_v in_o the_o root_n it_o may_v retain_v for_o a_o time_n green_a leaf_n but_o after_o a_o time_n it_o wither_v and_o neither_o fear_n ripe_a fruit_n nor_o leaf_n so_o also_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o plety_n and_o righteousness_n if_o love_n towards_o god_n our_o redeemer_n and_o delection_n in_o his_o service_n and_o obedience_n inward_o be_v diminish_v it_o may_v ready_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o very_a outward_a work_n yea_o and_o the_o profession_n of_o duty_n due_a to_o christ_n be_v take_v away_o also_o and_o this_o be_v the_o judgement_n wherewith_o christ_n do_v threaten_v ephesus_n i_o will_v come_v upon_o thou_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o repent_v rev._n 2._o 5._o the_o three_o reason_n be_v because_o christ_n who_o be_v altogether_o lovely_a and_o love_v itself_o the_o very_a son_n of_o the_o father_n love_n be_v a_o jealous_a god_n and_o can_v long_o endure_v not_o to_o be_v meet_v with_o love_n from_o they_o to_o who_o he_o have_v manifest_v his_o love_n therefore_o he_o do_v make_v haste_n to_o correct_v this_o slight_n of_o his_o love_n and_o to_o manifest_v his_o wrath_n against_o these_o that_o lie_v still_o well_o please_v with_o themselves_o under_o this_o condition_n i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o quick_o say_v he_o and_o remove_v thy_o candlestick_n rev._n 2._o 5._o 2._o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n who_o be_v lie_v in_o this_o condition_n or_o be_v decline_v from_o his_o former_a measure_n of_o love_n may_v discharge_v its_o duty_n more_o easy_o and_o solid_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o the_o man_n be_v convince_v of_o his_o fault_n first_o consider_v how_o reasonable_a it_o be_v that_o he_o shall_v return_v to_o his_o first_o love_n or_o former_o feel_v measure_n of_o it_o for_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o his_o manifold_a sin_n wherein_o he_o lie_v before_o his_o conversion_n for_o the_o translate_n of_o he_o from_o darkness_n to_o the_o glorious_a light_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n shall_v never_o be_v forget_v the_o proof_n which_o he_o have_v get_v by_o his_o conversion_n that_o christ_n have_v love_v he_o and_o give_v himself_o for_o he_o shall_v be_v always_o call_v to_o mind_n with_o hearty_a affection_n the_o great_a need_n of_o christ_n wherein_o he_o stand_v for_o renew_a pardon_n of_o sin_n for_o furnish_v he_o with_o his_o spirit_n to_o mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o bring_v forth_o more_o ripe_a and_o abundant_a fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n shall_v bind_v he_o to_o abide_v and_o grow_v in_o his_o love_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v how_o useful_a and_o profitable_a unto_o we_o be_v fresh_a green_a and_o grow_a love_n unto_o he_o for_o love_v to_o he_o make_v we_o frequent_o to_o think_v of_o he_o frequent_o with_o delight_n to_o speak_v of_o he_o to_o seek_v after_o more_o and_o more_o near-communion_n with_o he_o to_o have_v our_o conversation_n with_o he_o in_o heaven_n where_o he_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n and_o to_o live_v in_o heaven_n where_o our_o love_n be_v more_o than_o where_o we_o sojourn_v in_o this_o world_n love_n make_v we_o love_v what_o he_o love_v and_o hate_v what_o he_o hate_v love_n sharpen_v our_o desire_n after_o god_n in_o christ_n kindle_v and_o enlarge_v our_o affection_n towards_o he_o as_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o 63._o psalm_n do_v make_v evident_a and_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v seem_v to_o withdraw_v himself_o love_n make_v the_o true_a convert_n follow_v hard_o after_o he_o ps._n 63._o 8._o love_n make_v â—old_a to_o encounter_v all_o difficulty_n and_o trouble_n which_o may_v meet_v 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o course_n of_o follow_v after_o he_o much_o water_n can_v quench_v love_n in_o god_n service_n love_n keep_v a_o man_n 〈…〉_z strong_a and_o stout_a against_o his_o enemy_n in_o 〈…〉_z patient_a in_o profession_n sincere_a in_o pursue_v duty_n 〈…〉_z all_o condition_n submissive_a and_o after_o evidence_v of_o his_o affection_n with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 116._o 12._o to_o â—ay_n with_o the_o same_o psalmist_n what_o shall_v i_o render_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o all_o his_o benefit_n towards_o i_o ps._n 116._o 12._o three_o 〈…〉_z convert_v who_o be_v begin_v to_o cool_v in_o his_o love_n to_o christ_n 〈◊〉_d to_o remembrance_n what_o a_o felicity_n he_o feel_v when_o he_o entertain_v love_n to_o christ_n when_o the_o love_a kindness_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v better_a to_o he_o then_o his_o life_n and_o sin_n be_v more_o formidable_a than_o death_n when_o god_n commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a but_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o heart_n when_o god_n word_n season_v and_o sanctify_v his_o bitter_a affliction_n four_o let_v he_o consider_v at_o what_o a_o loss_n he_o be_v of_o many_o spiritual_a comfort_n whereof_o he_o have_v deprive_v himself_o and_o in_o how_o many_o sin_n of_o omission_n at_o least_o he_o have_v fall_v since_o his_o decline_v from_o his_o first_o love_n and_o what_o misery_n he_o have_v draw_v upon_o his_o own_o spirit_n at_o least_o if_o not_o also_o temporal_a chastisement_n join_v therewith_o and_o after_o comparison_n of_o his_o condition_n when_o his_o love_n be_v servant_n with_o his_o present_a condition_n since_o his_o fall_n from_o his_o sometime-measure_n of_o love_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n and_o fly_v in_o unto_o his_o rich_a
christian_n with_o give_v they_o over_o to_o their_o own_o heart_n lust_n and_o let_v they_o not_o only_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o counsel_n and_o in_o the_o imagination_n of_o their_o own_o ill_a heart_n but_o also_o in_o his_o justice_n send_v to_o they_o strong_a delusion_n and_o false_a teacher_n to_o authorise_v their_o error_n and_o hold_v they_o on_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perdition_n what_o wonder_v to_o see_v god_n for_o the_o light_n esteem_v of_o baptism_n bestow_v on_o man_n in_o their_o infancy_n and_o the_o not_o make_v use_n thereof_o for_o mortification_n of_o lust_n and_o sanctification_n of_o life_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o let_v loose_a fanatic_a anabaptist_n to_o teach_v man_n to_o renounce_v their_o baptism_n what_o wonder_v to_o see_v man_n loose-living_a in_o the_o service_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n punish_v with_o let_v loose_a antichristian_a antinomian_o who_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o wantonness_n do_v avouch_v whatsoever_o they_o do_v it_o be_v no_o sin_n and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o keep_v the_o law_n which_o christ_n profess_v he_o come_v not_o to_o dissolve_v but_o by_o the_o contrary_a to_o establish_v it_o what_o wonder_v to_o see_v man_n carnal_a confidence_n in_o their_o own_o wit_n worth_n strength_n and_o ability_n work_n and_o merit_n punish_v with_o let_v loose_a lie_a spirit_n to_o harden_v they_o in_o their_o error_n and_o what_o wonder_v to_o see_v god_n punish_v the_o abuse_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o refuse_v to_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o love_n with_o give_v man_n over_o to_o the_o spirit_n of_o antichrist_n and_o strong_a delusion_n 2_o thess._n 2._o the_o patron_n and_o propagator_n of_o such_o error_n and_o delusion_n be_v call_v by_o the_o apostle_n minister_n of_o satan_n and_o false_a brethren_n 2_o cor_n 11._o 16._o deceiver_n 1_o tim._n 4._o 1._o and_o man_n who_o be_v of_o old_a ordain_v to_o this_o condemnation_n from_o who_o contagion_n and_o punishment_n let_v every_o mislead_a soul_n pray_v to_o god_n to_o be_v deliver_v chap._n viii_o concern_v the_o convert_n conscience_n mistake_v vice_n for_o virtue_n and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n this_o case_n differ_v from_o the_o case_n of_o delusion_n which_o we_o have_v take_v for_o err_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n whether_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n pertain_v to_o the_o first_o table_n of_o the_o law_n but_o this_o mistake_a conscience_n be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n when_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o duty_n be_v confess_v but_o in_o practice_n and_o action_n vice_n be_v practise_v under_o the_o notion_n and_o pretence_n of_o virtue_n and_o the_o man_n be_v please_v with_o himself_o in_o so_o do_v whereof_o it_o shall_v suffice_v to_o give_v three_o instance_n the_o first_o instance_n the_o first_o instance_n wherein_o a_o convert_n may_v be_v for_o a_o time_n mistake_v be_v when_o a_o man_n please_v himself_o in_o niggardly_a parsimony_n and_o narrow_a scrape_v together_o of_o money_n to_o the_o hindrance_n of_o spiritual_a duty_n under_o pretence_n of_o frugality_n and_o diligence_n in_o his_o call_n etc._n etc._n whereby_o he_o persuade_v himself_o that_o his_o practice_n be_v so_o far_o from_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v rather_o commendable_a and_o worthy_a to_o be_v imitat_fw-la for_o he_o conceive_v that_o according_a to_o god_n command_v he_o be_v not_o slow_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o fervent_a in_o spirit_n serve_v the_o lord_n rom._n 12._o 11._o that_o he_o be_v work_v with_o his_o hand_n that_o which_o be_v good_a ephes._n 4._o 18._o that_o he_o be_v provide_v for_o the_o necessity_n of_o his_o family_n for_o which_o if_o he_o shall_v not_o provide_v he_o shall_v be_v worse_o than_o a_o infidel_n 1_o tim._n 5._o 8._o if_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v find_v so_o to_o be_v after_o examination_n true_a it_o be_v frugality_n diligence_n in_o a_o lawful_a call_n and_o provision_n for_o a_o man_n family_n be_v commendable_a but_o here_o be_v the_o deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n find_v when_o anxiety_n be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_a carefulness_n when_o haste_v to_o be_v rich_a be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_a diligence_n in_o his_o call_n when_o love_n of_o money_n and_o avarice_n be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o honest_a provision_n for_o a_o man_n family_n we_o grant_v also_o that_o this_o mistake_n be_v not_o easy_o discern_v by_o beholder_n but_o yet_o the_o convert_n himself_o after_o examination_n may_v discern_v it_o when_o he_o look_v upon_o the_o effect_n sign_n and_o concomitant_a evil_n such_o as_o be_v feel_v impediment_n and_o hindrance_n of_o a_o spiritual_a disposition_n for_o this_o covetousness_n of_o thing_n earthly_a whereof_o we_o be_v speak_v do_v mar_v the_o study_n and_o endeavour_v for_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o diminish_v the_o fear_n of_o sin_v in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o gain_n and_o take_v up_o the_o time_n due_a for_o spiritual_a exercise_n in_o this_o case_n carnal_a joy_n in_o the_o get_n gain_n be_v a_o sign_n and_o evidence_n of_o a_o deceive_a heart_n and_o so_o be_v also_o worldly_a grief_n for_o want_n of_o success_n or_o for_o not_o get_v expect_v and_o desire_a gain_n a_o proof_n of_o this_o mistake_n the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v the_o too_o great_a fear_n of_o poverty_n a_o over-high_a estimation_n of_o riches_n a_o diffidence_n of_o god_n providence_n a_o doubt_v of_o god_n promise_n to_o furnish_v his_o own_o with_o food_n and_o raiment_n and_o thing_n necessary_a for_o this_o temporal_a life_n which_o diffidence_n christ_n do_v express_o discharge_v mat._n 6._o 24_o 25._o but_o for_o a_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a the_o person_n guilty_a can_v seek_v after_o nor_o embrace_v it_o so_o long_o as_o he_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o his_o sinful_a condition_n wherefore_o for_o clear_v a_o man_n mind_n in_o this_o point_n let_v he_o examine_v himself_o whether_o in_o follow_v gain_v his_o heart_n be_v ofttimes_o surfeit_v and_o overcharge_v with_o the_o care_n of_o this_o life_n and_o make_v frequent_o indispose_v for_o prayer_n and_o religious_a exercise_n whether_o he_o be_v too_o much_o take_v with_o gladness_n when_o he_o gain_v and_o grief_n when_o he_o suffer_v loss_n and_o worldly_a damage_n whether_o he_o use_v for_o hope_n of_o gain_n or_o fear_v of_o life_n to_o lie_v and_o flatter_v or_o dare_v deal_v injust_o in_o his_o bargain_n whether_o he_o find_v himself_o slow_a unto_o exercise_n of_o religion_n but_o prompt_a and_o ready_a for_o secular_a affair_n whether_o he_o spend_v the_o time_n heavy_o in_o religious_a exercise_n and_o be_v weary_a of_o they_o but_o can_v pass_v the_o time_n pleasant_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o this_o life_n if_o he_o find_v himself_o convince_v by_o shrewd_a sign_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o god_n sight_n fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o fasten_v his_o bargain_n for_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n through_o christ_n then_o let_v he_o not_o cast_v off_o his_o diligence_n in_o and_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o his_o lawful_a call_n but_o by_o a_o religious_a disposition_n of_o mind_n and_o observance_n of_o all_o religious_a exercise_n seasonable_o temper_n and_o moderate_a his_o diligence_n in_o secular_a affair_n and_o depend_v upon_o god_n more_o than_o he_o have_v do_v for_o the_o success_n of_o his_o labour_n and_o take_v from_o god_n loss_n or_o advantage_n as_o he_o give_v it_o so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v find_v in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n submissive_a unto_o god_n and_o ready_a for_o the_o discharge_n of_o charity_n and_o equity_n as_o occasion_n shall_v offer_v another_o instance_n there_o be_v another_o instance_n wherein_o a_o convert_n may_v be_v mistake_v to_o wit_n when_o a_o man_n please_v himself_o in_o in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o private_a revenge_n that_o he_o may_v pay_v home_o to_o such_o as_o have_v wrong_v he_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o his_o credit_n and_o reputation_n or_o in_o his_o good_n or_o bodily_a harm_n do_v to_o he_o or_o his_o friend_n for_o this_o ungodly_a disposition_n he_o may_v pretend_v possible_o a_o care_n of_o follow_v retributive_a justice_n wherein_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o come_v short_a except_o he_o shall_v watch_v for_o a_o recompence-giving_a to_o the_o person_n injurious_a he_o may_v possible_o pretend_v a_o dutiful_a respect_n to_o public_a peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o the_o commonwealth_n of_o the_o society_n wherein_o he_o live_v wherein_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o come_v short_a if_o he_o shall_v suffer_v the_o person_n injurious_a to_o he_o to_o go_v away_o unpunished_a he_o may_v pretend_v also_o his_o own_o safety_n and_o security_n for_o time_n to_o come_v whereof_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o careless_a except_o he_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o whosoever_o do_v he_o wrong_v
the_o cause_n which_o it_o shall_v defend_v and_o it_o be_v borrow_v from_o the_o unfaithful_a advocate_n who_o for_o a_o bribe_n do_v sell_v the_o cause_n which_o he_o pretend_v to_o defend_v and_o give_v over_o the_o plea_n of_o his_o client_n and_o fall_v in_o to_o the_o adverse_a party_n such_o be_v the_o man_n who_o affection_n to_o some_o lust_n and_o worldly_a advantage_n do_v blindfold_o his_o conscience_n and_o move_v it_o to_o speak_v contrary_a to_o its_o duty_n and_o mean_a time_n do_v pretend_v he_o be_v only_o follow_v the_o light_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o who_o liberty_n he_o ought_v to_o dispute_v the_o mater_fw-la may_v be_v see_v in_o a_o example_n or_o instance_n one_o or_o two_o king_n saul_n receive_v a_o command_n from_o god_n to_o slay_v all_o the_o amalekit_n and_o destroy_v they_o and_o their_o beast_n when_o it_o come_v to_o execution_n saul_n conceive_v it_o shall_v be_v for_o his_o honour_n to_o spare_v agag_n and_o reserve_v he_o for_o a_o triumph_n and_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v for_o his_o advantage_n to_o spare_v the_o fat_a of_o the_o cattle_n whereof_o the_o people_n may_v make_v use_n for_o sacrifice_n so_o advantage_n and_o honour_n do_v solicit_v he_o the_o people_n consent_n who_o follow_v he_o help_v on_o his_o resolution_n to_o spare_v agag_n and_o the_o fat_a of_o the_o cattle_n fear_v to_o offend_v the_o people_n who_o he_o have_v draw_v on_o to_o consent_n unto_o his_o mind_n concur_v to_o the_o give_v forth_o his_o decreet_a contrary_a to_o god_n command_n and_o so_o his_o conscience_n be_v bribe_v fail_v against_o the_o command_n of_o god_n in_o which_o resolution_n and_o practice_n saul_n do_v please_v himself_o the_o like_a treachery_n in_o saul_n fall_v forth_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o the_o gibeonits_n the_o gibeonits_n preserve_v from_o joshuas_n time_n do_v grow_v in_o number_n to_o the_o detriment_n of_o the_o israelit_v as_o he_o conceive_v the_o oath_n of_o a_o covenant_n swear_v for_o spare_v their_o life_n stand_v up_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n to_o hinder_v he_o from_o slay_v of_o they_o the_o advantage_n which_o his_o kindly_a subject_n may_v have_v by_o kill_v they_o and_o possess_v their_o land_n and_o good_n stand_v up_o to_o entice_v he_o to_o kill_v they_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n saul_n be_v take_v with_o the_o bait_n of_o advantage_n and_o honour_n from_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n for_o who_o he_o be_v zealous_a incline_v his_o conscience_n to_o misregard_n the_o oath_n of_o the_o covenant_n partly_o because_o it_o be_v give_v without_o god_n counsel_n and_o consent_n yea_o contrary_a to_o his_o positive_a command_n discharge_v a_o covenant_n with_o the_o canaanite_n partly_o because_o the_o gibeonits_n deceive_v joshua_n and_o the_o elder_n and_o feign_a themselves_o not_o to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o the_o canaanite_n but_o man_n of_o a_o far_a country_n partly_o because_o many_o year_n have_v interveen_v between_o the_o day_n of_o ioshua_n covenant_n with_o they_o and_o his_o time_n and_o it_o seem_v unto_o saul_n very_o unreasonable_a that_o a_o rash_a and_o unadvised_a oath_n shall_v be_v still_o in_o force_n from_o generation_n to_o generation_n and_o partly_o also_o because_o the_o form_n of_o the_o civil_a government_n be_v now_o change_v whereby_o saul_n conceive_v himself_o not_o to_o be_v oblige_v as_o successor_n to_o the_o judge_n but_o as_o king_n ordain_v at_o god_n special_a direction_n as_o free_v a_o monarch_n as_o any_o in_o the_o world_n and_o not_o bind_v by_o the_o oath_n of_o the_o rash_a swear_v judge_n and_o elder_n in_o joshuas_n time_n do_v treacherous_o seduce_v his_o own_o conscience_n and_o fall_v upon_o the_o off-cutting_a of_o the_o gibeonits_n by_o the_o sword_n how_o many_o be_v they_o who_o by_o such_o enticement_n have_v deceive_v their_o own_o heart_n and_o for_o worldly_a gain_n or_o glory_n or_o for_o eshew_v of_o damnage_n do_v embrace_v error_n in_o religion_n and_o follow_v that_o course_n which_o most_o serve_v to_o satisâ—ie_v their_o own_o lust_n or_o be_v most_o applaud_v unto_o of_o they_o who_o be_v in_o power_n from_o which_o sort_n of_o treacherous_a deal_n nothing_o can_v divert_v and_o draw_v back_o the_o man_n to_o repentance_n except_o the_o lord_n partly_o by_o disputation_n and_o partly_o by_o church-censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n shall_v discover_v unto_o they_o their_o treacherous_a deal_n in_o sell_v the_o truth_n and_o betray_v their_o conscience_n for_o base_a end_n and_o so_o bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n in_o this_o case_n such_o as_o be_v pretend_v maintainer_n of_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n but_o in_o effect_n patron_n of_o licentious_a live_n after_o their_o own_o lust_n put_v in_o their_o objection_n 1._o obj._n it_o be_v necessary_a for_o i_o say_v one_o to_o do_v what_o i_o do_v and_o to_o think_v what_o i_o think_v i_o conceive_v i_o have_v reason_n for_o i_o and_o be_o persuade_v that_o what_o i_o do_v and_o profess_v be_v lawful_a and_o that_o that_o be_v not_o lawful_a whereunto_o censure_n and_o punishment_n tend_v to_o draw_v i_o ans._n what_o necessity_n can_v be_v pretend_v for_o a_o deliberate_a man_n action_n and_o profession_n except_o a_o moral_a necessity_n of_o do_v duty_n and_o of_o not_o sin_v natural_a necessity_n he_o can_v allege_v for_o the_o justify_n of_o deliberate_a sinful_a action_n for_o if_o he_o pretend_v original_a sin_n and_o native_a corrupt_a inclination_n to_o sin_n it_o be_v no_o excuse_n for_o sin_n but_o a_o grant_v himself_o a_o sinner_n by_o kind_n by_o natural_a inclination_n and_o custom_n or_o if_o he_o pretend_v a_o civil_a necessity_n it_o be_v either_o for_o hope_n of_o gain_n or_o fear_v of_o worldly_a loss_n and_o that_o be_v but_o a_o base_a reason_n to_o move_v a_o man_n to_o do_v what_o be_v in_o itself_o sinful_a if_o conscience_n be_v pretend_v and_o that_o he_o can_v without_o sin_n do_v what_o be_v against_o his_o conscience_n he_o must_v know_v that_o a_o conscience_n misinform_v can_v warrant_v a_o sinful_a tenet_n or_o practice_n for_o except_o a_o man_n renounce_v the_o error_n which_o he_o have_v embrace_v both_o the_o error_n be_v his_o sin_n and_o the_o profession_n and_o practice_n according_a to_o the_o error_n do_v make_v his_o sin_n double_a if_o he_o pretend_v that_o except_o he_o do_v as_o his_o conscience_n dit_v unto_o he_o he_o sin_v because_o the_o conscience_n be_v the_o rule_n of_o a_o man_n action_n he_o must_v know_v that_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o the_o absolute_a rule_n of_o a_o man_n action_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n must_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o his_o conscience_n and_o of_o his_o action_n also_o because_o if_o he_o put_v his_o conscience_n in_o the_o place_n of_o god_n word_n and_o not_o in_o subjection_n and_o subordination_n thereto_o he_o must_v justify_v the_o murderer_n of_o the_o martyr_n of_o who_o christ_n give_v warning_n that_o they_o who_o kill_v his_o servant_n shall_v think_v to_o wit_n in_o their_o conscience_n that_o they_o do_v unto_o god_n good_a service_n joh._n 16._o 2._o if_o he_o pretend_v that_o upon_o this_o ground_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v altogether_o destroy_v if_o man_n live_v under_o civil_a and_o ecclesiastic_a government_n must_v renounce_v the_o light_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o give_v obedience_n to_o man_n commandment_n he_o must_v know_v that_o he_o be_v mistake_v and_o that_o the_o true_a liberty_n of_o the_o conscience_n stand_v in_o the_o follow_a god_n word_n and_o do_v service_n unto_o god_n neither_o do_v sound_a doctrine_n tie_v any_o man_n to_o renounce_v the_o liberty_n of_o his_o conscience_n but_o to_o renounce_v the_o error_n which_o have_v blind_v he_o and_o to_o renounce_v his_o lust_n which_o have_v open_v the_o door_n unto_o the_o error_n which_o have_v mislead_v he_o lest_o both_o he_o perish_v in_o his_o sin_n and_o the_o society_n wherein_o he_o live_v be_v infect_v with_o the_o error_n and_o fall_v under_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n if_o he_o pretend_v that_o neither_o the_o will_n of_o a_o man_n nor_o his_o conscience_n can_v be_v compel_v for_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o will_n be_v to_o determine_v free_o what_o the_o man_n shall_v do_v and_o the_o lord_n people_n must_v be_v a_o willing_a people_n ps._n 110._o 3_o he_o must_v know_v that_o albeit_o the_o will_n and_o conscience_n can_v be_v compel_v yet_o the_o carnal_a lust_n which_o have_v seduce_v the_o conscience_n may_v be_v cross_v and_o curb_v by_o ecclesiastic_a censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n that_o the_o conscience_n and_o will_n be_v better_o inform_v after_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o their_o lust_n which_o do_v mislead_v they_o they_o may_v free_o disclaim_v the_o error_n &_o their_o unhappy_a vent_v thereof_o if_o he_o pretend_v that_o god_n be_v the_o only_a
walk_n shall_v be_v find_v in_o he_o scrupulosity_n sometime_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o convert_n be_v under_o hard_a exercise_n before_o his_o consolation_n do_v put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n and_o study_v to_o walk_v circumspect_o for_o a_o while_n but_o after_o a_o time_n he_o become_v somewhat_o weary_a of_o the_o yoke_n suspect_v he_o have_v give_v too_o much_o way_n unto_o scrupulosity_n whereupon_o he_o become_v more_o remiss_a and_o slack_a in_o his_o watchfulness_n and_o diligence_n lay_v aside_o the_o armour_n of_o god_n as_o david_n lay_v aside_o the_o armour_n of_o king_n saul_n wherewith_o he_o be_v not_o accustom_v for_o satisfy_v himself_o in_o this_o course_n i_o presuppone_v he_o make_v use_v of_o three_o pretend_a reason_n the_o first_o be_v because_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o man_n to_o attain_v to_o such_o circumspection_n in_o his_o carriage_n as_o become_v he_o for_o it_o be_v no_o less_o than_o to_o aim_v at_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n which_o the_o apostle_n have_v declare_v to_o be_v impossible_a because_o of_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o flesh_n rom._n 8._o 3._o the_o next_o pretend_v reason_n be_v because_o this_o bend_n of_o a_o man_n spirit_n make_v the_o conscience_n unquiet_a that_o a_o man_n can_v enjoy_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n grant_v in_o the_o gospel_n the_o three_o pretend_a reason_n be_v because_o it_o do_v restrain_v christian_n liberty_n in_o many_o thing_n lawful_a so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v neither_o make_v use_n of_o recreation_n of_o body_n or_o mind_n without_o scruple_n and_o here_o we_o must_v beware_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n lest_o we_o give_v way_n to_o any_o degree_n of_o misregarding_a the_o law_n which_o be_v the_o error_n of_o the_o antinomian_o and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n lest_o we_o ensnare_v the_o conscience_n of_o convert_n and_o hinder_v they_o in_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o what_o god_n do_v allow_v unto_o they_o 2._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o convert_v know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a walk_n this_o duty_n be_v indispensable_a for_o if_o a_o chink_n be_v open_v here_o in_o the_o vessel_n for_o the_o least_o entry_n of_o water_n it_o may_v ere_o long_o fill_v and_o sink_v the_o whole_a ship_n for_o the_o command_n stand_v unmoveable_a â—hâ—b_n 12._o 14._o follow_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n and_o holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n and_o 1_o pet._n 1._o 15._o as_o he_o that_o have_v call_v you_o be_v holy_a so_o be_v you_o holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n and_o mat._n 5._o 48._o christ_n have_v say_v be_v you_o perfect_a as_o your_o father_n in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a this_o ground_n be_v lay_v let_v we_o examine_v these_o three_o pretend_a reason_n as_o to_o the_o first_o albeit_o the_o attain_n unto_o the_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n in_o this_o life_n be_v impossible_a because_o of_o the_o infirmity_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n yet_o the_o aim_v at_o the_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o god_n command_n be_v both_o possible_a and_o profitable_a and_o he_o who_o aim_v at_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n in_o this_o life_n shall_v attain_v it_o full_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o give_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o the_o law_n for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o do_v sin_n all_o of_o we_o another_o thing_n to_o endeavour_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n give_v to_o obey_v the_o law_n perfect_o for_o god_n who_o have_v loose_v convert_v flee_v to_o christ_n from_o the_o convenant_n of_o work_n or_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n he_o have_v not_o loose_v his_o subject_n from_o obedience_n to_o the_o lawgiver_n he_o have_v not_o abolish_v the_o ten_o command_n he_o have_v not_o loose_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o redeem_v and_o convert_v soul_n but_o by_o receive_v they_o in_o favour_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n he_o do_v augment_v their_o obligation_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n their_o redeemer_n so_o much_o more_o cheerful_o and_o careful_o as_o the_o grace_n be_v large_a in_o forgive_a they_o their_o sin_n and_o translate_n they_o from_o the_o slavery_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ._n again_o albeit_o it_o be_v true_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o the_o law_n yet_o there_o be_v great_a advantage_n to_o be_v have_v by_o circumspect_a walk_n and_o aim_v at_o perfect_a obedience_n for_o this_o 1._o do_v glorify_v our_o heavenly_a father_n when_o we_o strive_v to_o be_v conform_v to_o his_o will_n and_o to_o have_v respect_n to_o all_o his_o command_n 2._o this_o endeavour_n adorn_v the_o gospel_n and_o profession_n of_o our_o most_o holy_a faith_n whereby_o we_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o grace_n of_o free_a justification_n that_o we_o may_v become_v the_o servant_n of_o righteousness_n indeed_o 3._o this_o endeavour_n bear_v witness_n of_o our_o sinceâ—_n desire_v to_o serve_v god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n albeit_o we_o attain_v not_o to_o the_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n in_o this_o life_n 4._o this_o endeavour_n give_v unto_o we_o daily_o new_a mater_fw-la of_o humiliation_n when_o in_o our_o aim_v at_o our_o duty_n we_o come_v very_o short_a of_o our_o mark_n we_o shoot_v at_o 5._o this_o endeavour_n and_o short-coming_a for_o all_o we_o can_v do_v make_v we_o despair_v of_o seek_v justification_n by_o work_n before_o god_n and_o to_o esteem_v high_o and_o make_v use_n by_o faith_n of_o christ_n satisfaction_n for_o we_o impute_v to_o we_o for_o righteousness_n which_o be_v a_o garment_n able_a to_o hide_v our_o imperfection_n and_o nakedness_n 6._o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o put_v we_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o christian_n grace_n and_o to_o strive_v with_o other_o and_o with_o ourselves_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 3._o as_o for_o the_o second_o pretend_v reason_n that_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o may_v make_v the_o conscience_n unquiet_a it_o put_v a_o foul_a aspersion_n on_o the_o holy_a precept_n of_o the_o apostle_n ephes._n 5._o 15_o 16_o 17._o who_o have_v declare_v this_o to_o be_v a_o man_n wisdom_n and_o so_o a_o good_a mean_a of_o make_v his_o conscience_n quiet_a and_o to_o establish_v in_o it_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n for_o by_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o believer_n in_o christ_n be_v assure_v that_o they_o be_v without_o the_o reach_n of_o condemnation_n because_o they_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n rom._n 8._o 1._o second_o this_o endeavour_n be_v the_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o accompani_v true_a faith_n and_o in_o a_o manner_n do_v guard_v the_o conscience_n from_o just_a challenge_n which_o may_v trouble_v the_o same_o three_o by_o this_o endeavour_n the_o believer_n be_v by_o a_o holy_a necessity_n force_v to_o cleave_v close_o unto_o christ_n to_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o heaven_n that_o the_o pollution_n of_o daily_a sin_n may_v be_v washen_n away_o by_o new_a application_n of_o christ_n expiarory_n sacrifice_n to_o the_o believer_n and_o that_o christ_n may_v let_v forth_o more_o strength_n to_o he_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o command_v duty_n and_o so_o the_o convert_n may_v stand_v in_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n thus_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n offer_v and_o covenant_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v preserve_v in_o he_o so_o long_o as_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o be_v entertain_v 4._o as_o for_o the_o three_o pretend_v reason_n against_o circumspect_a walk_n as_o if_o by_o it_o christian-liberty_n shall_v be_v cross_v and_o cut_v short_a it_o be_v a_o false_a pretence_n for_o the_o contrair_n be_v true_a that_o christian-liberty_n be_v not_o hurt_v but_o help_v and_o preserve_v by_o circumspect_a walk_n for_o this_o be_v true_a christian-liberty_n to_o have_v allowance_n of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o benefit_n which_o god_n do_v bestow_v with_o his_o blessing_n so_o far_o as_o may_v serve_v our_o welfare_n see_v it_o be_v not_o a_o point_n of_o christian-liberty_n licentious_o by_o intemperance_n to_o abuse_v god_n benefit_n and_o turn_v they_o to_o our_o own_o hurt_n wherefore_o let_v our_o heart_n be_v all_o day_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v in_o lawful_a manner_n make_v use_n of_o lawful_a thing_n neither_o do_v the_o study_n of_o holiness_n make_v recreation_n of_o body_n and_o mind_n unlawful_a but_o restrain_v immoderate_a and_o untimeous_a use_n of_o thing_n lawful_a all_o that_o christian_a liberty_n grant_v unto_o we_o be_v that_o whether_o we_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o what_o lawful_a thing_n else_o we_o do_v we_o do_v all_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 10._o 31._o that_o be_v so_o as_o we_o may_v be_v
therapeutica_fw-la sacra_fw-la show_v brief_o the_o method_n of_o heal_v the_o disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n write_a first_o in_o latin_a by_o david_n dickson_n professor_n of_o divinity_n in_o the_o college_n of_o edinburgh_n and_o thereafter_o translate_v by_o he_o matth._n 9_o 12._o they_o that_o be_v whole_a need_v not_o a_o physician_n but_o they_o that_o be_v sick_a edinburgh_n print_v by_o evan_n tyler_n printer_n to_o the_o king_n be_v most_o excellent_a majesty_n 1664._o to_o the_o right_n honourable_a and_o very_a noble_a the_o countess_n dowager_n of_o glencairn_n madam_n after_o the_o author_n have_v write_v and_o publish_v this_o treatise_n in_o latin_a for_o the_o use_n of_o young_a student_n in_o theology_n by_o the_o earnest_n and_o frequent_a entreaty_n of_o friend_n he_o be_v induce_v and_o persuade_v to_o translate_v it_o into_o our_o vulgar_a tongue_n for_o the_o benefit_n of_o these_o who_o understand_v not_o the_o latin_a and_o for_o prevent_v the_o labour_n of_o other_o who_o more_o forward_o then_o skilful_a be_v about_o the_o do_n of_o it_o and_o have_v once_o so_o far_o proceed_v as_o to_o offer_v it_o to_o the_o press_n without_o acquaint_v he_o therewith_o when_o he_o have_v finish_v the_o translation_n his_o purpose_n be_v to_o have_v dedicate_v it_o to_o your_o ladyship_n and_o to_o have_v send_v it_o abroad_o into_o the_o world_n under_o your_o protection_n but_o weakness_n and_o sickness_n the_o ordinary_a companion_n of_o age_n and_o after_o they_o death_n whereby_o god_n almighty_a and_o gracious_a call_v he_o from_o his_o labour_n to_o enter_v into_o his_o master_n joy_n seize_v upon_o he_o before_o he_o can_v write_v a_o epistle_n dedicatory_a it_o be_v his_o will_n that_o your_o honourable_a name_n shall_v be_v prefix_v unto_o it_o in_o pursuance_n whereof_o it_o come_v now_o as_o a_o orphan_n to_o kiss_v your_o noble_a hand_n fraught_v with_o hope_n of_o favour_n and_o shelter_v for_o the_o parent_n be_v sake_n and_o of_o acceptance_n as_o a_o testimony_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o respect_n he_o carry_v to_o your_o ladyship_n virtue_n it_o have_v the_o strong_a plea_n for_o a_o tender_a reception_n that_o it_o be_v the_o child_n of_o his_o age_n be_v his_o last_o labour_n and_o be_v bring_v forth_o in_o his_o seventy_o and_o second_o year_n and_o that_o it_o come_v array_v in_o a_o suit_n of_o country-cloath_n which_o himself_o put_v upon_o it_o be_v publish_v according_a to_o the_o copy_n write_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n that_o it_o may_v be_v as_o it_o be_v design_v by_o he_o useful_a for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n and_o that_o god_n may_v comfort_v you_o under_o your_o present_a sad_a affliction_n and_o make_v up_o the_o loss_n of_o your_o noble_a husband_n the_o late_a lord_n high_a chancellor_n of_o scotland_n be_v the_o prayer_n of_o madam_n your_o ladyship_n most_o humble_o devote_a servant_n alexander_n dickson_n edinburgâ—_n 13._o june_n 1664._o therapeutica_fw-la sacra_fw-la translate_v by_o the_o author_n show_v short_o the_o method_n of_o heal_v the_o disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n chap._n i._n of_o conscience_n in_o general_n see_v our_o purpose_n be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o cure_n of_o sundry_a ordinary_a case_n or_o disease_n concern_v regeneration_n by_o a_o prudent_a application_n and_o use-making_a of_o divine_a covenant_n make_v about_o and_o with_o man_n for_o his_o come_n to_o eternal_a life_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o speak_v in_o the_o entry_n a_o little_a first_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o use_v thereof_o in_o general_a next_o of_o the_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o general_a three_o what_o regeneration_n be_v and_o who_o be_v the_o man_n regenerate_v four_a of_o divine_a covenant_n relate_v to_o everlasting_a happiness_n and_o five_o of_o the_o orderly_a and_o prudent_a application_n of_o these_o covenant_n in_o general_n that_o thereafter_o we_o may_v descend_v to_o speak_v of_o application_n thereof_o in_o particular_a case_n the_o more_o clear_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o first_o what_o conscience_n be_v it_o have_v please_v god_n the_o sovereign_a lord_n and_o judge_n of_o all_o man_n in_o the_o creation_n to_o put_v in_o man_n soul_n a_o natural_a power_n or_o faculty_n whereby_o he_o may_v not_o only_o understand_v the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n the_o only_a lord_n of_o and_o lawgiver_n to_o the_o conscience_n not_o only_o concern_v what_o he_o shall_v believe_v and_o perform_v but_o also_o may_v judge_v of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o obedience_n whether_o perform_v or_o not_o perform_v yea_o and_o may_v judge_v also_o of_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o other_o in_o so_o far_o as_o evidence_n may_v be_v have_v of_o their_o conformity_n unto_o or_o disagreement_n from_o the_o revealed_z rule_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n this_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n whether_o it_o be_v consider_v only_o in_o its_o natural_a aptitude_n and_o fitness_n to_o judge_v though_o not_o as_o yet_o or_o for_o the_o time_n actual_o judge_v or_o whether_o it_o be_v look_v upon_o as_o it_o be_v put_v forth_o itself_o in_o exercise_n we_o call_v it_o by_o the_o name_n of_o conscience_n 3._o the_o word_n conscience_n be_v divers_a way_n take_v for_o sometime_o by_o it_o be_v mean_v the_o natural_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o judge_v both_o of_o our_o own_o and_o other_o conformity_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o in_o this_o large_a acception_n we_o say_v every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n that_o be_v every_o man_n whether_o male_a or_o female_a whether_o old_a or_o young_a whether_o sleep_v or_o wake_v have_v a_o faculty_n which_o may_v and_o sometime_o shall_v judge_v of_o their_o own_o and_o other_o behaviour_n towards_o god_n sometime_o it_o be_v take_v for_o that_o natural_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n put_v forth_o itself_o actual_o in_o exercise_n by_o judge_v of_o other_o so_o do_v the_o apostle_n take_v it_o 2_o cor._n 5_o 11._o i_o trust_v say_v he_o we_o be_v make_v manifest_a in_o your_o conscience_n but_o here_o in_o this_o treatise_n we_o take_v conscience_n more_o strict_o as_o it_o examine_v and_o judge_v of_o ourselves_o for_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v most_o proper_o call_v conscience_n or_o joint_a knowledge_n partly_o because_o it_o suppose_v that_o god_n and_o we_o know_v our_o obedience_n or_o disobedience_n to_o the_o rule_n prescribe_v to_o we_o by_o he_o partly_o because_o conscience_n import_v first_o our_o knowledge_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o next_o our_o knowledge_n of_o our_o behaviour_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o our_o compare_v of_o these_o two_o together_o and_o pass_v of_o sentence_n of_o ourselves_o answerable_o 4._o conscience_n as_o it_o do_v respect_v ourselves_o be_v no_o other_o thing_n in_o effect_n than_o the_o understand_a power_n of_o our_o soul_n examine_v how_o matter_n do_v stand_v betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o compare_v his_o will_n reveal_v with_o our_o state_n condition_n and_o carriage_n in_o thought_n word_n or_o deed_n do_v or_o omit_v and_o pass_a judgement_n thereupon_o as_o the_o case_n require_v so_o that_o in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v god_n depute_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v these_o five_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v 1._o the_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n 2._o the_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o examine_v 3._o the_o rule_n whereby_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v 4._o the_o process_n of_o the_o conscience_n unto_o sentence_n give_v and_o 5._o the_o execution_n of_o the_o sentence_n so_o far_o as_o the_o conscience_n may_v 5._o as_o to_o the_o first_o the_o duty_n of_o examination_n of_o ourselves_o and_o juâ—ging_v ourselves_o it_o be_v require_v of_o we_o lest_o we_o be_v judge_v of_o god_n and_o chastise_v with_o sharp_a rod_n 1_o cor._n 11._o 31._o 32._o and_o hereunto_o we_o be_v exhort_v ps._n 4._o 4_o commune_fw-la with_o your_o own_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n and_o be_v still_o 6._o as_o for_o the_o second_o the_o thing_n which_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v concern_v ourselves_o it_o be_v one_o of_o three_o or_o all_o the_o three_o in_o their_o order_n to_o wit_n either_o our_o estate_n whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n under_o wrath_n or_o not_o or_o whether_o we_o be_v regenerate_v and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n through_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n or_o not_o of_o this_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 13._o 5._o examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o it_o be_v our_o condition_n whether_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n our_o present_a disposition_n or_o inclination_n of_o heart_n and_o affection_n be_v such_o as_o become_v a_o man_n reconcile_v or_o not_o to_o this_o point_n of_o examination_n christ_n do_v call_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n rev._n 2._o 5._o remember_v therefore_o
prison_n and_o stock_n pinch_v and_o press_v the_o bind_v sinner_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o burrio_fw-la scourge_v and_o torment_v he_o but_o the_o conscience_n after_o examination_n find_v the_o man_n either_o innocent_a and_o free_a of_o the_o crime_n or_o forgive_v and_o reconcile_v to_o god_n by_o christ_n after_o repentance_n and_o faith_n embrace_v the_o redeemer_n it_o do_v the_o part_n of_o a_o honest_a friend_n careful_o comfort_v the_o innocent_a or_o penitent_a and_o the_o part_n of_o a_o advocate_n excuse_v and_o defend_v the_o man_n against_o all_o challenge_n and_o the_o part_n of_o witness_n compurgatour_n and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o judge_n absolve_v and_o the_o part_n of_o the_o rewarder_n and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o nature_n and_o use_n of_o conscience_n as_o may_v suffice_v our_o purpose_n chap._n ii_o of_o case_n of_o conscience_n in_o general_n a_o case_n of_o conscience_n take_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n comprehend_v every_o accident_n which_o any_o way_n affect_v or_o qualifi_v the_o conscience_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n the_o persuasion_n and_o certainty_n which_o the_o conscience_n may_v have_v the_o soundness_n health_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v call_v case_n and_o good_a case_n of_o the_o conscience_n so_o also_o any_o effect_n which_o the_o conscience_n do_v work_v on_o the_o soul_n such_o as_o be_v peace_n of_o conscience_n comfort_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v call_v case_n of_o the_o conscience_n also_o but_o the_o case_n whereof_o we_o be_v to_o treat_v be_v the_o ill_a case_n of_o the_o conscience_n whereby_o it_o be_v fall_v from_o the_o soundness_n and_o straightness_n it_o shall_v have_v which_o we_o call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o wound_n disease_n and_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n whereunto_o that_o we_o may_v descend_v to_o speak_v more_o orderly_o a_o twofold_a difference_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v 2._o first_o we_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o a_o healthy_a and_o a_o sick_a conscience_n a_o healthy_a conscience_n be_v that_o which_o after_o examination_n of_o our_o way_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n do_v just_o absolve_v we_o and_o speak_v peace_n to_o we_o towards_o god_n of_o such_o a_o conscience_n it_o be_v say_v by_o solomon_n a_o sound_a heart_n be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o flesh_n prov._n 14._o 30._o by_o the_o heart_n he_o mean_v the_o conscience_n which_o ordinary_o in_o scripture_n be_v call_v the_o heart_n and_o he_o say_v the_o sound_a conscience_n be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o flesh_n because_o the_o body_n be_v so_o much_o in_o better_a case_n that_o the_o conscience_n be_v at_o peace_n towards_o god_n and_o this_o blessing_n be_v allow_v upon_o every_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o his_o orderly_a walk_n 2_o tim._n 1._o 7._o god_n have_v not_o give_v we_o the_o spirit_n of_o fear_n but_o of_o power_n of_o love_n and_o of_o a_o sound_a mind_n a_o conscience_n in_o this_o disposition_n need_v not_o medicine_n but_o spiritual_a nourishment_n and_o exercise_n in_o all_o christian-duty_n a_o sick_a conscience_n we_o call_v that_o which_o either_o be_v senseless_a of_o its_o own_o evil_n and_o danger_n it_o be_v in_o and_o sit_v down_o secure_o and_o rest_v without_o a_o warrant_n or_o which_o be_v just_o wound_v and_o labour_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o its_o pain_n or_o which_o be_v unquiet_a upon_o mistake_n and_o ignorance_n of_o make_v use_n of_o the_o true_a remedy_n of_o such_o a_o sick_a conscience_n we_o be_v to_o speak_v if_o possible_a by_o god_n blessing_n a_o word_n in_o season_n may_v be_v speak_v to_o waken_v a_o secure_a conscience_n or_o to_o refresh_v the_o weary_a soul_n that_o be_v recover_v from_o its_o malady_n it_o may_v be_v able_a to_o feed_v upon_o the_o bread_n and_o water_n of_o life_n and_o work_v the_o work_n of_o god_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ._n 3._o second_o we_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o a_o trouble_a soul_n and_o a_o trouble_a conscience_n for_o the_o soul_n be_v more_o large_o take_v then_o the_o conscience_n the_o soul_n comprehend_v all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o the_o man_n but_o the_o conscience_n as_o we_o speak_v of_o it_o be_v only_o one_o faculty_n of_o the_o mind_n judge_v of_o the_o man_n moral_n ill_a or_o well-being_n and_o so_o all_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v case_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o all_o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n for_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v trouble_v while_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o trouble_v at_o all_o yea_o a_o man_n may_v have_v a_o commendable_a trouble_n in_o his_o soul_n when_o he_o see_v god_n dishonour_v or_o his_o church_n in_o hazard_n whereby_o his_o conscience_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v trouble_v that_o such_o a_o holy_a trouble_n strengthen_v his_o conscience_n in_o his_o address_n to_o god_n as_o be_v in_o many_o place_n of_o the_o psalm_n to_o be_v see_v again_o a_o man_n mind_n may_v be_v trouble_v by_o sundry_a natural_a or_o civil_a motive_n while_o the_o conscience_n be_v allowable_o quiet_a as_o in_o loss_n of_o thing_n temporal_a fear_n pain_n or_o unexpected_a inconvenience_n occur_v yea_o there_o may_v be_v passion_n and_o perturbation_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o person_n that_o be_v not_o capable_a for_o the_o time_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o young_a infant_n and_o in_o the_o elder_a sort_n in_o fit_n of_o fever_n melancholy_a and_o frenzy_n and_o yet_o further_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o passion_n perturbation_n and_o trouble_n of_o soul_n may_v be_v find_v without_o any_o disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n because_o our_o lord_n jesus_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o humiliation_n be_v a_o man_n acquaint_v with_o sorrow_n but_o be_v not_o obnoxious_a to_o sin_n or_o any_o self-challenging_a for_o he_o know_v no_o sin_n in_o himself_o he_o have_v trouble_v in_o his_o soul_n but_o can_v not_o have_v trouble_n of_o conscience_n job_n 12._o 27._o now_o be_v my_o soul_n trouble_v and_o what_o shall_v i_o say_v â—ather_o save_v i_o from_o this_o hour_n but_o for_o this_o cause_n come_v i_o unto_o this_o hour_n of_o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n we_o speak_v not_o here_o but_o of_o the_o sinful_a disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n 4._o there_o be_v also_o a_o three_o difference_n to_o be_v observe_v between_o common_a case_n of_o conscience_n and_o these_o that_o special_o concern_v regeneration_n common_a case_n comprehend_v all_o these_o question_n and_o doubt_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n be_v seek_v light_n and_o resolution_n about_o the_o rule_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n that_o it_o may_v better_o inform_v itself_o about_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n and_o about_o the_o application_n thereof_o in_o the_o point_n of_o direction_n in_o faith_n and_o practice_n these_o common_a case_n be_v of_o as_o large_a extent_n as_o the_o bulk_n of_o divinity_n as_o large_a as_o the_o doctrine_n hold_v forth_o in_o scripture_n concern_v faith_n and_o manner_n for_o there_o be_v not_o any_o one_o article_n of_o faith_n or_o duty_n prescribe_v as_o a_o point_n of_o piety_n or_o righteousness_n about_o which_o question_n may_v not_o be_v move_v and_o case_n propound_v wherein_o the_o conscience_n may_v seek_v satisfaction_n of_o this_o huge_a great_a tree_n we_o take_v but_o only_o one_o branch_n to_o speak_v of_o so_o far_o as_o make_v for_o our_o purpose_n concern_v regeneration_n chap._n iii_o of_o regeneration_n what_o it_o be_v and_o the_o regenerate_a man_n who_o he_o be_v we_o speak_v not_o here_o of_o the_o regeneration_n of_o elect_a infant_n die_v in_o their_o infancy_n god_n have_v his_o own_o way_n of_o deal_n with_o they_o but_o of_o the_o regeneration_n of_o those_o who_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v outward_o call_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n which_o we_o may_v thus_o describe_v regeneration_n be_v one_o in_o effect_n with_o effectual_a cal_a be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n invincible_a power_n and_o mere_a grace_n wherein_o by_o his_o spirit_n accompany_v his_o word_n he_o quicken_v a_o redeem_a person_n lie_v dead_a in_o his_o sin_n and_o renew_v he_o in_o his_o mind_n will_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o his_o soul_n convince_v he_o saving_o of_o sin_n righteousness_n and_o judgement_n and_o make_v he_o hearty_o to_o embrace_v christ_n and_o salvation_n and_o to_o consecrat_v himself_o to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n all_o the_o day_n of_o his_o life_n 2._o the_o main_a thing_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n to_o in_o this_o work_n be_v to_o give_v to_o god_n entire_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o power_n and_o wisdom_n so_o that_o the_o glory_n of_o man_n regeneration_n be_v neither_o give_v to_o man_n nor_o man_n make_v sharer_n of_o the_o glory_n with_o god_n but_o god_n may_v have_v
whereby_o he_o be_v make_v more_o capable_a of_o regeneration_n to_o be_v wrought_v in_o he_o for_o the_o material_a disposition_n of_o he_o fit_v he_o for_o regeneration_n be_v neither_o a_o part_n nor_o a_o degree_n of_o regeneration_n for_o albeit_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o these_o preparatory_a disposition_n yet_o he_o will_v have_v man_n bind_v to_o make_v use_n of_o these_o external_a mean_n which_o may_v prepare_v he_o because_o by_o the_o use_n of_o external_a mean_n such_o as_o be_v hear_v of_o the_o word_n catechise_v and_o conference_n etc._n etc._n a_o man_n may_v be_v bring_v more_o near_o unto_o regeneration_n as_o christ_n do_v teach_v we_o by_o his_o speech_n to_o that_o pharisee_fw-mi who_o be_v instruct_v in_o the_o law_n and_o answer_v discreedy_a unto_o christ_n thou_o be_v not_o far_o say_v he_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n mark_n 12._o 24._o this_o preparatory_a disposition_n in_o order_n unto_o regeneration_n be_v like_a unto_o the_o dry_n of_o timber_n to_o make_v it_o soon_o take_v fire_n when_o it_o be_v casten_z into_o it_o for_o dryness_n in_o the_o timber_n be_v neither_o a_o part_n nor_o a_o degree_n of_o kindle_v or_o inflammation_n of_o it_o but_o only_o a_o preparation_n of_o the_o timber_n to_o receive_v inflammation_n when_o the_o fire_n shall_v be_v set_v to_o it_o or_o it_o put_v in_o the_o fire_n possible_o a_o long_a time_n after_o in_o these_o preparatory_a exercise_n then_o no_o man_n will_v deny_v that_o the_o natural_a man_n unrenewed_a have_v a_o natural_a power_n to_o go_v and_o hear_v a_o sermon_n preach_v to_o read_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v inform_v by_o catechise_v and_o conference_n of_o religion_n and_o regeneration_n whereof_o god_n when_o he_o please_v may_v make_v use_n in_o regeneration_n of_o the_o man_n wherefore_o whosoever_o in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v charge_v and_o command_v to_o repent_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o turn_v unto_o god_n they_o be_v command_v also_o to_o use_v all_o these_o external_a mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v inform_v of_o the_o duty_n require_v and_o of_o the_o mean_n lead_v thereunto_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o which_o external_a mean_n they_o may_v meet_v with_o sundry_a common_a operation_n and_o effect_n of_o god_n spirit_n before_o they_o be_v regenerate_v or_o convert_v whereof_o the_o use_n may_v be_v sound_a not_o only_o in_o but_o also_o after_o conversion_n and_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v refuse_v slight_a or_o neglect_v to_o follow_v these_o preparatory_a exercise_n which_o may_v prepare_v he_o for_o conversion_n he_o be_v inexcusable_a before_o god_n and_o man_n and_o guilty_a of_o reject_v of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n yea_o guilty_a of_o resist_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n of_o which_o sin_n and_o guiltiness_n the_o holy_a martyr_n stephen_n charge_v the_o misbelieve_a jew_n act_n 7._o 51._o 8._o as_o for_o the_o regenerate_a man_n he_o it_o be_v who_o in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o sinfulness_n and_o deserve_a misery_n and_o of_o his_o utter_a inability_n to_o help_v himself_o do_v cast_v away_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o part_n and_o possible_a righteousness_n of_o his_o own_o work_n and_o flee_v to_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o in_o christ_n alone_o he_o may_v have_v true_a wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n and_o do_v with_o full_a purpose_n of_o heart_n consecrat_v himself_o and_o endeavour_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n to_o serve_v god_n acceptable_o all_o the_o day_n of_o his_o life_n for_o the_o ground_n of_o this_o description_n we_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n philip._n 3._o 3_o where_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o true_a people_n of_o god_n and_o the_o counterfeit_n he_o say_v we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n who_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n in_o which_o description_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n the_o apostle_n first_o point_v forth_o unto_o we_o three_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o regeneration_n than_o three_o duty_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v the_o first_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o only_a circumciser_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v the_o humble_v of_o the_o man_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o cut_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o worth_n wit_n freewill_n and_o strength_n to_o help_v himself_o so_o that_o the_o man_n have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n the_o second_o operation_n be_v the_o infusion_n of_o save_a faith_n make_v the_o man_n humble_v to_o close_v with_o christ_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o to_o rest_v upon_o he_o as_o the_o only_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n so_o that_o christ_n become_v to_o he_o the_o ground_n of_o rejoice_v and_o gloriation_n the_o three_o operation_n be_v the_o upstirring_a and_o enable_v of_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n to_o endeavour_v new_a obedience_n and_o to_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n as_o for_o the_o three_o duty_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v the_o first_o be_v to_o follow_v the_o lead_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o point_n of_o more_o and_o more_o humble_v of_o himself_o before_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o insufficiency_n and_o eshew_v of_o all_o lean_v on_o his_o own_o part_n gift_n work_n or_o suffering_n or_o any_o thing_n else_o beside_o christ_n he_o must_v have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n the_o second_o duty_n be_v to_o grow_v in_o the_o estimation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o fullness_n of_o all_o grace_n to_o be_v let_v forth_o to_o the_o believer_n employ_v he_o by_o faith_n and_o comfort_v himself_o in_o christ_n against_o all_o difficulty_n trouble_n and_o temptation_n he_o must_v rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ._n the_o three_o duty_n be_v to_o endeavour_v communion-keeping_a with_o god_n in_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n in_o all_o case_n worship_v and_o serve_v god_n in_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n he_o must_v be_v a_o worshipper_n of_o god_n as_o to_o the_o last_o thing_n hold_v forth_o in_o the_o apostle_n word_n which_o be_v the_o undoubted_a mark_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v and_o circumcise_v in_o heart_n it_o stand_v in_o the_o constant_a endeavour_n to_o grow_v in_o these_o three_o duty_n joint_o so_o as_o each_o of_o they_o may_v advance_v another_o for_o many_o fail_n and_o short-coming_n will_v be_v find_v in_o our_o new_a obedience_n and_o worship_v of_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n but_o let_v these_o fail_n be_v make_v use_n of_o to_o extinguish_v and_o abolish_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o part_n and_o righteousness_n that_o our_o daily_a fail_n may_v humble_v we_o and_o cut_v we_o off_o from_o all_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n but_o let_v not_o these_o fail_n so_o discourage_v we_o as_o to_o hinder_v we_o to_o put_v confidence_n in_o christ_n but_o by_o the_o contrair_a the_o less_o ground_n of_o confidence_n we_o find_v in_o ourselves_o let_v we_o raise_v so_o much_o high_a the_o estimation_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o by_o faith_n to_o draw_v more_o strength_n and_o ability_n out_o of_o christ_n for_o enable_v we_o to_o walk_v more_o holy_o and_o righteous_o before_o god_n and_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o comfort_v ourselves_o in_o he_o let_v we_o not_o turn_v his_o grace_n into_o wantonness_n but_o the_o more_o we_o believe_v the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n let_v we_o strive_v in_o his_o strength_n so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o glorify_v god_n in_o new_a obedience_n and_o in_o the_o circle_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n let_v we_o wind_v ourselves_o up_o stair_n towards_o heaven_n for_o god_n have_v promise_v that_o such_o as_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n they_o shall_v mount_v up_o with_o wing_n as_o eagle_n they_o shall_v run_v and_o not_o be_v weary_a they_o shall_v walk_v and_o not_o faint_a isaiah_n 40._o 31._o in_o the_o conjunction_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n the_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n be_v find_v if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o all_o these_o three_o duty_n the_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n be_v by_o so_o much_o darken_v and_o short_a for_o probation_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v a_o man_n regenerate_v that_o he_o be_v drive_v from_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o righteousness_n and_o fill_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n because_o a_o man_n that_o have_v no_o more_o than_o that_o may_v perish_v in_o this_o miserable_a condition_n as_o we_o see_v in_o judas_n the_o traitor_n who_o conscience_n be_v burden_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o
convince_v they_o of_o their_o need_n of_o christ_n and_o duty_n of_o follow_v he_o to_o fix_v and_o strengthen_v their_o hearty_a purpose_n to_o cleave_v unto_o the_o lord_n such_o as_o be_v the_o lord_n command_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o love_n one_o another_o 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o and_o his_o threaten_n if_o they_o believe_v not_o joh._n 3._o 18._o and_o 1_o joh._n 5._o 10._o 11._o the_o four_o mean_v be_v the_o gather_n of_o these_o that_o have_v embrace_v this_o covenant_n into_o all_o lawful_a and_o possible_a church-communion_n with_o other_o his_o disciple_n and_o fix_v they_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n that_o they_o may_v be_v edify_v under_o their_o officer_n appoint_v by_o christ_n in_o his_o testament_n in_o their_o most_o holy_a faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o all_o his_o ordinance_n and_o for_o further_a clear_v the_o way_n of_o god_n bring_v the_o visible_a church_n of_o christ_n into_o this_o covenant_n with_o himself_o let_v it_o be_v consider_v 1._o albeit_o of_o those_o that_o be_v come_v to_o the_o use_n of_o reason_n with_o who_o god_n do_v formal_o and_o solemn_o make_v this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n many_o be_v external_o only_o call_v and_o few_o in_o comparison_n choose_v matth._n 20._o 21._o yet_o it_o be_v not_o the_o will_n of_o god_n otherways_o then_o by_o doctrine_n to_o separat_fw-la the_o elect_a from_o the_o rest_n of_o they_o that_o be_v external_o call_v or_o to_o make_v the_o elect_v name_n know_v to_o the_o world_n for_o the_o church_n know_v not_o but_o god_n only_o know_v who_o be_v his_o 2_o tim._n 2._o 19_o and_o therefore_o he_o have_v ordain_v mean_n common_a to_o the_o elect_a and_o reprobat_fw-la to_o bring_v both_o unto_o the_o external_a embrace_v of_o his_o covenant_n and_o continue_v external_o therein_o and_o he_o do_v bestow_v gift_n both_o to_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o to_o the_o other_o and_o he_o work_v in_o both_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o the_o other_o according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n but_o as_o for_o inward_a and_o effectual_a call_n or_o special_a save_a grace_n which_o do_v accompany_v salvation_n and_o the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n he_o reserve_v to_o the_o elect_a and_o redeem_v only_o to_o who_o in_o a_o time_n acceptable_a he_o reveal_v himself_o and_o seal_v they_o for_o his_o own_o service_n 2._o by_o this_o wise_a and_o holy_a deal_n with_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n whereby_o the_o lord_n so_o make_v good_a the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o bring_v his_o decree_n to_o pass_v as_o none_o shall_v have_v just_a reason_n to_o stumble_v no_o wonder_n that_o many_o be_v compass_v within_o the_o draught-net_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v move_v to_o enter_v into_o this_o holy_a and_o bless_a covenant_n of_o who_o there_o may_v be_v elect_a not_o as_o yet_o convert_v whereup_v on_o by_o god_n appointment_n follow_v a_o solemn_a covenant_v of_o all_o that_o consent_n to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o profess_v their_o faith_n in_o christ_n all_o who_o with_o their_o child_n christ_n translate_v from_o the_o pagan_a world_n into_o his_o visible_a kingdom_n and_o fellowship_n of_o his_o church_n militant_a and_o grant_v unto_o they_o right_o to_o the_o common_a privilege_n of_o citizen_n in_o the_o order_n appoint_v in_o his_o word_n that_o keep_v all_o lawful_a and_o possible_a communion_n with_o the_o catholic_n visible_a church_n of_o christ_n they_o may_v be_v edify_v in_o their_o particular_a congregaâ—ions_n and_o govern_v with_o other_o by_o ecclesiastical_a discipline_n 3._o together_o with_o these_o external_a mean_n serve_v for_o draw_v on_o the_o covenant_n and_o go_v on_o in_o it_o the_o common_a operation_n of_o god_n do_v concur_v common_a to_o all_o the_o call_v both_o elect_a and_o reprobat_fw-la and_o gift_n common_a to_o both_o be_v bestow_v such_o as_o illumination_n moral_a persuasion_n historycall_a dogmatic_a and_o temporary_a faith_n moral_a change_n of_o affection_n and_o some_o sort_n of_o external_a amendment_n of_o their_o outward_a conversation_n save_v grace_n be_v the_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o own_o 4._o of_o this_o manner_n of_o covenant_v and_o take_v into_o church-fellowship_n all_o the_o call_v that_o consent_n in_o a_o moral_a way_n to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n regenerate_v and_o unregenerat_a we_o have_v a_o pattern_n in_o the_o lord_n covenant_v with_o all_o israel_n exod._n 19_o the_o covenant_n be_v offer_v to_o all_o the_o israelite_n without_o exception_n all_o be_v invite_v to_o enter_v in_o covenant_n without_o exception_n argument_n motive_n and_o moral_a inducement_n be_v make_v use_n of_o from_o their_o experience_n of_o the_o lord_n goodness_n and_o gift_n give_v to_o they_o before_o most_o ample_a promise_n of_o spiritual_a benefit_n be_v make_v unto_o they_o conditional_o to_o be_v bestow_v on_o they_o both_o in_o this_o life_n and_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v vers_n 4._o 5._o 6._o the_o people_n embrace_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n v._o 7._o 8._o the_o people_n be_v sanctify_v and_o prepare_v to_o receive_v the_o holy_a command_n and_o will_v of_o god_n in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o chapter_n then_o in_o the_o 20._o chapter_n and_o in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o book_n the_o duty_n of_o the_o covenanter_n be_v propound_v which_o concern_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a death_n and_o these_o also_o which_o concern_v obtain_v of_o justification_n and_o sanctification_n by_o christ_n and_o which_o concern_v their_o show_v forth_o their_o thankfulness_n all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n the_o same_o covenant_n after_o forty_o year_n be_v repeat_v and_o renew_v by_o moses_n a_o little_a before_o his_o death_n in_o the_o land_n of_o moab_n deut._n 29._o the_o lord_n command_v moses_n to_o renew_v the_o covenant_n with_o all_o the_o people_n vers_fw-la 1._o all_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v gather_v together_o regenerate_v and_o unregenerat_a vers_fw-la 2._o the_o sum_n of_o argument_n and_o motive_n to_o enter_v in_o covenant_n of_o new_a be_v short_o set_v down_o vers_n 3._o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o people_n to_o be_v join_v to_o god_n in_o covenant_n be_v open_o declare_v by_o moses_n to_o be_v unregenerat_a vers_fw-la 4._o after_o that_o argument_n be_v use_v to_o move_v they_o in_o all_o time_n come_v to_o trust_v in_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o obey_v he_o to_z vers_n 9_o the_o covenant_n be_v make_v with_o the_o head_n of_o the_o tribe_n and_o elder_n of_o the_o people_n and_o their_o governor_n and_o with_o all_o the_o man_n of_o israel_n with_o their_o little_a one_o with_o the_o woman_n and_o with_o the_o stranger_n that_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o camp_n vers_fw-la 10._o 11._o the_o covenant_n be_v solemnize_v with_o adjuration_n of_o all_o to_o keep_v the_o condition_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 12._o 13._o the_o covenant_n be_v extend_v with_o adjuration_n to_o the_o posterity_n vers_fw-la 14._o 15._o neither_o be_v there_o any_o exception_n make_v or_o exclusion_n of_o any_o that_o consent_v to_o the_o covenant_n whether_o unregenerat_a israelite_n or_o stranger_n but_o all_o be_v admit_v within_o this_o covenant_n the_o same_o way_n of_o covenant_v do_v john_n baptist_n follow_v admit_v to_o his_o baptism_n the_o seal_n of_o this_o covenant_n all_o those_o that_o come_v from_o jerusalem_n and_o out_o of_o all_o judea_n and_o from_o the_o border_n of_o jordan_n without_o exception_n whosoever_o confess_v their_o sin_n or_o that_o they_o be_v sinner_n and_o profess_v they_o do_v receive_v the_o offer_n of_o grace_n make_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o true_a lamb_n of_o god_n that_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n matth._n 3._o 5_o 6._o and_o so_o far_o be_v john_n from_o wait_v for_o evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n and_o regeneration_n before_o he_o admit_v they_o that_o come_v to_o his_o baptism_n into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o external_a covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n that_o on_o the_o contrair_a he_o make_v public_a profession_n that_o the_o fan_n whereby_o the_o chaff_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o wheat_n and_o the_o hypocrite_n discern_v from_o the_o sincere_a christian_a be_v not_o in_o his_o hand_n or_o in_o any_o other_o man_n or_o man_n hand_n but_o in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n jesus_n himself_o only_o and_o therefore_o which_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v observe_v after_o he_o have_v public_o testify_v his_o suspicion_n of_o the_o hypocrisy_n and_o old_a poysonable_v be_v position_n in_o the_o pharisee_n and_o sadduâ—es_n that_o come_v to_o his_o baptism_n and_o offer_v to_o receive_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o seal_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 7._o forthwith_o without_o inquire_v into_o their_o regeneration_n and_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n he_o baptize_v they_o among_o the_o
altogether_o ans._n we_o answer_v with_o the_o apostle_n vers_fw-la 20._o nay_o but_o o_o man_n who_o be_v thou_o that_o reply_v against_o god_n whether_o do_v thou_o compear_v procuratour_n for_o the_o reprobat_fw-la and_o for_o satan_n the_o enemy_n of_o god_n to_o quarrel_v and_o dispute_v with_o god_n anent_o his_o righteous_a decree_n if_o thou_o will_v avow_v this_o we_o leave_v thou_o and_o all_o such_o proud_a and_o presumptuous_a misbeliever_n of_o plain_a doctrine_n to_o reckon_v with_o your_o judge_n but_o if_o thou_o speak_v only_o for_o thyself_o we_o shall_v let_v thou_o see_v that_o this_o doctrine_n shall_v not_o hinder_v thou_o from_o repentance_n if_o then_o thou_o shall_v say_v i_o will_v not_o dispute_v against_o god_n but_o do_v desire_v earnest_o to_o be_v satisfy_v about_o myself_o for_o i_o believe_v that_o many_o be_v reprobat_fw-la and_o few_o be_v choose_v and_o my_o fear_n be_v that_o i_o be_v find_v of_o the_o worst_a sort_n and_o do_v not_o know_v how_o to_o rid_v myself_o of_o my_o doubt_n and_o fear_n for_o answer_v we_o shall_v deal_v with_o thou_o in_o a_o friendly_a manner_n and_o first_o we_o put_v thou_o in_o remembrance_n that_o god_n have_v serve_v a_o inhibition_n on_o all_o man_n not_o to_o meddle_v with_o the_o secret_a counsel_n of_o god_n deut._n 29._o 29._o the_o secret_a thing_n belong_v to_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n but_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v reveal_v belong_v unto_o we_o and_o our_o child_n for_o ever_o therefore_o do_v not_o hearken_v to_o this_o suggestion_n but_o go_v about_o thy_o duty_n we_o ask_v then_o first_o be_v thou_o convince_v of_o thy_o sin_n and_o ill_o deserve_v if_o thou_o say_v i_o be_o a_o sinner_n and_o can_v answer_v for_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o of_o my_o by_o go_v sin_n for_o which_o god_n may_v just_o and_o i_o fear_v he_o shall_v in_o effect_n reject_v i_o we_o answer_v unto_o thou_o it_o be_v to_o good_a purpose_n that_o thou_o be_v so_o far_o convince_v of_o sin_n as_o to_o judge_v thyself_o worthy_a of_o death_n and_o utter_a exterminion_n from_o his_o mercy_n mean_v time_n be_v comfort_v thus_o far_o that_o thou_o be_v not_o of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o who_o confide_v in_o their_o own_o righteousness_n nor_o of_o the_o number_n of_o they_o who_o trust_v in_o their_o own_o strength_n or_o power_n of_o their_o freewill_n we_o ask_v again_o do_v thy_o by_o go_v life_n displease_v thou_o and_o will_v thou_o have_v thy_o sin_n forgive_v and_o thyself_o reconcile_v with_o god_n do_v christ_n offer_v himself_o in_o the_o gospel_n please_v thy_o soul_n when_o thou_o hear_v from_o his_o word_n that_o he_o crave_v nothing_o of_o thou_o save_v that_o thou_o welcome_v his_o offer_n and_o consecrat_v thyself_o to_o he_o that_o so_o in_o he_o thou_o may_v have_v righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n and_o salvation_n if_o thou_o answer_v that_o the_o searcher_n of_o heart_n know_v thy_o hearty_a desire_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o live_v before_o he_o hereafter_o as_o a_o reconcile_a child_n there_o be_v good_a hope_n of_o salvation_n for_o such_o a_o one_o as_o thou_o be_v three_o we_o say_v see_v thou_o have_v hear_v the_o law_n convince_a thou_o of_o sin_n and_o have_v believe_v god_n word_n so_o far_o why_o do_v thou_o not_o believe_v he_o also_o when_o in_o the_o gospel_n thou_o hear_v his_o offer_n and_o call_v unto_o all_o self-condemned_n sinner_n to_o come_v unto_o christ_n and_o rest_v their_o weary_a soul_n upon_o he_o who_o have_v except_v thou_o from_o the_o embrace_v of_o mercy_n offer_v in_o jesus_n christ_n look_v therefore_o what_o his_o word_n say_v to_o all_o sinner_n fly_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o hope_n set_v before_o sinner_n and_o leave_v he_o not_o whatsoever_o be_v thy_o fear_n for_o he_o that_o hunger_v and_o thirst_v for_o righteousness_n through_o christ_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v chap._n vii_o for_o a_o further_a clear_n and_o confirmation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n about_o the_o three_o covenant_n from_o jer._n 31._o and_o heb._n 8._o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n give_v we_o a_o short_a compend_n of_o the_o former_a doctrine_n anent_o these_o three_o covenant_n chap._n 31._o vers_fw-la 31._o etc._n etc._n whereof_o the_o apostle_n give_v a_o clear_a commentary_n heb._n 8._o vers_fw-la 6_o 7._o etc._n etc._n as_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n it_o be_v here_o presuppon_v to_o be_v pass_v as_o the_o apostle_n expound_v this_o place_n of_o jeremiah_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v while_o he_o show_v we_o that_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v no_o other_o way_n purchase_v then_o by_o the_o mediation_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n transact_v about_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n with_o the_o father_n and_o that_o he_o may_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v this_o 1._o christ_n be_v call_v the_o mediator_n of_o a_o better_a covenant_n heb._n 8._o to_o wit_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n 2._o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v design_v by_o the_o name_n of_o a_o testament_n which_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o christ_n the_o mediator_n do_v not_o obtain_v the_o make_n of_o this_o covenant_n on_o a_o less_o price_n than_o the_o lay_v down_o of_o his_o life_n that_o all_o the_o benefit_n contain_v in_o these_o better_a promise_n may_v first_o be_v his_o good_n to_o dispone_v upon_o as_o he_o please_v and_o that_o he_o be_v resolve_v to_o die_v do_v make_v his_o testament_n and_o leave_v they_o all_o in_o legacy_n to_o the_o redeem_v his_o heir_n and_o assigney_n design_v from_o eternity_n 3._o the_o mediator_n make_v his_o testament_n be_v call_v jehovah_n not_o a_o mere_a man_n but_o god_n to_o be_v incarnate_a make_v a_o unchangeable_a latter-will_a or_o testament_n which_o of_o necessity_n require_v the_o death_n of_o the_o testatour_n that_o it_o may_v be_v ratify_v heb._n 9_o 15_o 16._o and_o the_o death_n of_o a_o testatour_n not_o a_o mere_a man_n but_o the_o son_n of_o god_n to_o be_v incarnate_a and_o to_o die_v who_o have_v life_n in_o himself_o that_o he_o may_v lay_v down_o his_o life_n and_o take_v it_o up_o again_o 4._o the_o good_n which_o he_o purchase_v according_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o leave_v in_o legacy_n to_o his_o heir_n be_v all_o and_o every_o blessing_n which_o do_v belong_v to_o godliness_n and_o life_n eternal_a as_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o write_v of_o the_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n etc._n etc._n 5._o the_o redeem_v and_o design_v heir_n be_v not_o all_o and_o every_o man_n but_o the_o elect_n only_o these_o that_o be_v to_o be_v save_v only_o and_o who_o be_v to_o be_v effectual_o call_v and_o endue_v with_o the_o save_a knowledge_n of_o god_n who_o from_o the_o least_o to_o the_o great_a be_v all_o of_o they_o to_o know_v the_o lord_n not_o such_o as_o be_v the_o reprobat_fw-la father_n nor_o their_o unbelieve_a child_n but_o the_o choose_a society_n of_o the_o israel_n of_o god_n and_o of_o christ_n family_n the_o house_n of_o judah_n which_o be_v the_o tribe_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o apostle_n do_v extend_v these_o promise_n unto_o the_o covenant_n between_o god_n and_o the_o elect_v to_o be_v gather_v under_o the_o evangel_n unto_o christ_n out_o of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n as_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n it_o be_v certain_a first_o that_o god_n make_v a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o substance_n and_o upon_o the_o mater_fw-la with_o the_o father_n that_o be_v bring_v out_o of_o egypt_n as_o we_o may_v gather_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o party_n and_o article_n of_o that_o covenant_n for_o albeit_o god_n repeat_v the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o declare_v the_o force_n of_o the_o law_n for_o bind_v the_o curse_n upon_o all_o transgressor_n thereof_o yet_o he_o do_v press_v the_o law_n on_o they_o in_o order_n unto_o their_o reconciliation_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o lamb_n of_o god_n to_o be_v in_o due_a time_n offer_v up_o and_o do_v teach_v they_o that_o christ_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n for_o righteousness_n to_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v 2._o it_o be_v certain_a that_o in_o the_o frame_n of_o this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n between_o god_n and_o the_o visible_a church_n of_o the_o father_n god_n do_v make_v the_o promise_n of_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n and_o spiritual_a blessing_n under_o the_o vail_n of_o temporal_a type_n upon_o condition_n more_o hard_a and_o difficile_a in_o appearance_n than_o the_o new_a covenant_n do_v require_v for_o this_o the_o apostle_n show_v to_o we_o plain_o heb._n 8._o 6._o 3._o it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o un-believing_a father_n do_v not_o take_v up_o nor_o understand_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o turn_v it_o over_o in_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n which_o be_v manifest_a by_o
any_o man_n the_o lord_n have_v give_v no_o certain_a mark_n as_o long_o as_o they_o live_v except_o that_o malicious_a and_o wilful_a reject_v and_o oppose_v of_o know_a christ_n jesus_n to_o the_o intent_n that_o none_o shall_v dare_v to_o exclude_v either_o themselves_o or_o other_o from_o repentance_n and_o hope_n of_o mercy_n so_o long_o as_o the_o day_n of_o god_n long-suffering_a and_o patience_n do_v last_o this_o be_v collect_v from_o this_o that_o god_n do_v not_o make_v mention_n of_o the_o reprobation_n of_o these_o misbelieve_a father_n while_o they_o be_v live_v but_o now_o long_o after_o they_o be_v dead_a and_o this_o mention_n make_v of_o they_o be_v in_o general_a only_o and_o not_o by_o name_a they_o particular_o 17._o albeit_o in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o application_n of_o save_a mercy_n the_o mater_fw-la be_v so_o wise_o carry_v by_o god_n that_o both_o the_o decree_n and_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n be_v keep_v close_o as_o to_o particular_a name_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v effectual_o make_v out_o in_o the_o apply_v of_o grace_n to_o individual_a person_n as_o the_o agreement_n be_v make_v between_o god_n and_o christ_n mediator_n yet_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n be_v make_v this_o far_o clear_a that_o it_o do_v not_o pass_v for_o the_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n by_o this_o evidence_n that_o not_o so_o much_o as_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n shall_v be_v make_v to_o all_o and_o every_o nation_n far_o lâ—sse_a to_o all_o and_o every_o singular_a person_n but_o that_o the_o people_n and_o nation_n of_o israel_n and_o judah_n be_v choose_v out_o of_o all_o people_n and_o nation_n in_o the_o world_n comprehend_v such_o other_o as_o shall_v be_v call_v unto_o their_o society_n and_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o olive_n tree_n among_o they_o as_o psal._n 147._o 19_o 20._o hold_v forth_o and_o in_o this_o place_n the_o whole_a elect_a under_o the_o gospel_n be_v take_v up_o under_o the_o name_n of_o this_o one_o nation_n 18._o that_o the_o decree_n of_o election_n of_o some_o may_v both_o be_v keep_v up_o as_o to_o particular_a nomination_n and_o yet_o have_v certain_a execution_n and_o be_v perform_v the_o lord_n take_v up_o all_o his_o confederate_n whether_o in_o the_o letter_n or_o spirit_n also_o under_o the_o same_o common_a name_n this_o be_v gather_v from_o this_o that_o the_o misbelieve_a israelit_n that_o perish_v in_o the_o desert_n with_o who_o god_n make_v a_o covenant_n and_o they_o do_v break_v it_o be_v design_v under_o the_o common_a name_n of_o father_n and_o be_v take_v up_o in_o that_o covenant_n under_o the_o name_n of_o spouse_n jer._n 31._o 32._o and_o the_o elect_a posterity_n be_v take_v up_o under_o the_o common_a name_n of_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o judah_n 19_o such_o as_o the_o covenanter_n be_v in_o regard_n of_o their_o inward_a estate_n such_o be_v the_o covenant_n wherein_o they_o real_o be_v or_o such_o be_v the_o covenant_n in_o relation_n to_o their_o person_n unto_o the_o reprobat_fw-la who_o do_v change_v for_o their_o part_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n into_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n become_v in_o effect_n the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o be_v render_v void_a to_o they_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v threaten_v the_o galatian_n gal._n 5._o 4._o and_o as_o do_v befall_v the_o pharisaical_a father_n who_o be_v here_o declare_v as_o instance_n but_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n unto_o the_o elect_a and_o true_a believer_n remain_v still_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n from_o which_o they_o do_v not_o fall_v nor_o can_v altogether_o fall_v as_o the_o comparison_n here_o between_o the_o father_n in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o their_o elect_a posterity_n make_v evident_a 20._o the_o lord_n have_v wise_o join_v life_n with_o the_o mean_n and_o way_n to_o life_n and_o death_n with_o the_o way_n to_o death_n and_o will_v not_o have_v that_o separate_v which_o he_o have_v join_v this_o be_v collect_v from_o this_o that_o the_o father_n by_o not_o continue_v in_o the_o covenant_n be_v despise_v and_o reject_v of_o god_n and_o so_o perish_v but_o their_o elect_a posterity_n have_v the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o cleave_v constant_o unto_o the_o lord_n be_v save_v 21._o the_o lord_n will_v have_v this_o doctrine_n teach_v where_o his_o word_n be_v preach_v concern_v the_o election_n of_o some_o and_o reprobation_n of_o other_o some_o of_o god_n covenant_v with_o some_o people_n and_o person_n and_o not_o offer_v a_o covenant_n to_o other_o some_o of_o covenant_v with_o some_o in_o the_o letter_n and_o with_o other_o some_o in_o the_o spirit_n also_o to_o this_o end_n and_o intent_n that_o man_n leave_v the_o search_n in_o particular_a of_o that_o which_o god_n have_v keep_v secret_a in_o the_o particular_a may_v follow_v command_v duty_n repent_v their_o sin_n and_o flee_v to_o christ_n offer_v unto_o they_o and_o take_v up_o his_o yoke_n upon_o they_o and_o beware_v that_o they_o neither_o despair_n nor_o yet_o presume_v or_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n this_o we_o gather_v from_o this_o that_o god_n send_v forth_o jeremiah_n to_o preach_v these_o thing_n not_o only_o to_o the_o visible_a church_n of_o the_o jew_n go_v into_o exile_n and_o captivity_n but_o also_o to_o all_o who_o shall_v hear_v this_o doctrine_n from_o he_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o apostle_n repeat_v this_o doctrine_n for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n do_v confirm_v this_o chap._n viii_o of_o the_o prudent_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n in_o general_n have_v speak_v of_o these_o three_o divine_a covenant_n concern_v man_n salvation_n it_o follow_v now_o to_o speak_v of_o the_o application_n thereof_o first_o in_o general_a and_o then_o more_o special_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o application_n we_o must_v first_o look_v upon_o god_n effectual_a apply_v and_o work_v in_o the_o hearer_n of_o these_o covenant_n such_o effect_n as_o he_o have_v intend_v by_o these_o covenant_n to_o bring_v to_o pass_v next_o we_o must_v look_v upon_o the_o mean_n whereby_o he_o ordinary_o do_v convey_v and_o work_v his_o intend_a work_n in_o man_n and_o three_o we_o must_v look_v upon_o the_o prudent_a way_n of_o use_n make_v of_o these_o mean_n both_o by_o pastor_n and_o people_n for_o people_n good_a 2._o as_o to_o the_o first_o the_o lord_n effectual_a application_n be_v a_o real_a and_o actual_a bestow_v the_o good_a of_o these_o covenant_n upon_o his_o own_o by_o way_n of_o powerful_a work_n on_o their_o spirit_n such_o as_o be_v 1._o the_o give_v the_o grace_n of_o understanding_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o 2._o the_o belief_n of_o what_o be_v understand_v and_o 3._o the_o application_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n concern_v man_n sin_n and_o misery_n to_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o 4._o the_o make_v they_o judge_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o 5._o the_o raise_n of_o sorrow_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o fear_n of_o wrath_n and_o 6._o the_o set_n of_o their_o eye_n upon_o christ_n for_o delivery_n from_o sin_n and_o death_n and_o 7._o the_o make_v they_o perceive_v a_o possibility_n and_o probability_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v and_o 8._o to_o have_v a_o earnest_a desire_n after_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o 9_o the_o make_n of_o his_o own_o to_o cast_v themselves_o over_o on_o christ_n and_o to_o believe_v on_o he_o and_o 10._o the_o make_v they_o to_o consecrat_v themselves_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n reconcile_a the_o world_n of_o mere_a grace_n to_o himself_o not_o impute_v transgression_n to_o the_o reconcile_a through_o christ_n and_o 11._o the_o make_v they_o to_o wonder_v at_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n who_o in_o a_o self-condemned_n sinner_n desirous_a to_o be_v reconcile_v with_o he_o require_v no_o personal_a dignity_n no_o good_a work_n which_o may_v commend_v he_o to_o god_n but_o only_o that_o he_o will_v receive_v and_o welcome_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n as_o the_o only_a necessary_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n against_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n require_v no_o other_o condition_n but_o that_o he_o flee_v from_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v unto_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n who_o offer_v himself_o unto_o lose_a sinner_n in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o through_o he_o the_o beleiver_n may_v be_v justify_v and_o sanctify_v and_o save_v for_o ever_o and_o 12._o after_o wonder_v raise_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o child_n the_o make_v they_o cleave_v close_o to_o christ_n and_o to_o strive_v against_o all_o temptation_n which_o
sin_n witting_o and_o from_o the_o slight_n of_o the_o admonition_n of_o the_o conscience_n arise_v up_o to_o the_o contempt_n of_o all_o accusation_n which_o the_o conscience_n can_v lay_v in_o against_o he_o and_o at_o last_o bold_o rise_v up_o against_o the_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v avenge_v of_o it_o for_o rebuke_v he_o by_o commit_v these_o same_o sin_n most_o frequent_o for_o which_o he_o have_v be_v often_o reprove_v by_o his_o conscience_n the_o second_o cause_n may_v we_o reckon_v the_o devil_n who_o think_v it_o too_o little_a to_o allure_v man_n to_o sin_n and_o harden_v their_o heart_n in_o it_o and_o spoil_v they_o of_o all_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n except_o he_o also_o draw_v they_o to_o renounce_v god_n and_o bark_n against_o he_o and_o become_v like_o the_o devil_n himself_o so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v drive_v they_o the_o three_o cause_n we_o make_v the_o holy_a justice_n of_o god_n give_v over_o the_o man_n who_o contemn_v the_o light_n and_o check_n of_o his_o conscience_n unto_o a_o reprobat_fw-la sense_n that_o be_v deprive_v of_o common_a use_n of_o reason_n and_o judgement_n he_o may_v run_v mad_a in_o his_o sin_n like_o the_o devil_n for_o if_o god_n do_v punish_v the_o heathen_a so_o for_o this_o sort_n of_o sin_v rom._n 1._o 28._o what_o wonder_v he_o punish_v seven_o time_n more_o they_o who_o thus_o rebel_n against_o the_o light_n of_o holy_a scripture_n yea_o these_o that_o do_v not_o come_v to_o this_o height_n be_v punish_v by_o give_v they_o over_o to_o strong_a delusion_n 2_o thess._n 2._o 11._o the_o last_o but_o sinless_a cause_n be_v the_o deep_a wisdom_n of_o god_n who_o suffer_v such_o wretch_n to_o fill_v up_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o sin_n do_v make_v manifest_a to_o all_o beholder_n the_o power_n and_o poison_n of_o inborn_a sin_n in_o man_n and_o draw_v forth_o to_o light_v the_o natural_a enimity_n of_o man_n against_o god_n the_o seed_n whereof_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o can_v hardly_o be_v believe_v to_o be_v incident_a to_o man_n except_o it_o be_v by_o experience_n see_v and_o find_v in_o some_o man_n for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a it_o be_v too_o little_a that_o such_o a_o monster_n shall_v be_v drive_v from_o all_o church-society_n and_o give_v over_o to_o satan_n it_o be_v the_o part_n of_o the_o magistrate_n to_o bind_v beast_n and_o mad_a devil_n and_o punish_v they_o as_o it_o become_v the_o bearer_n of_o the_o sword_n to_o do_v for_o avenge_a of_o evil-doer_n but_o if_o the_o magistrate_n do_v not_o his_o part_n yet_o let_v the_o pastor_n do_v what_o in_o he_o lie_v for_o albeit_o the_o scripture_n give_v small_a hope_n of_o the_o recovery_n of_o such_o vile_a monster_n because_o of_o the_o stupidity_n of_o their_o conscience_n that_o can_v be_v wrought_v upon_o by_o man_n yet_o see_v such_o evil_n have_v be_v find_v even_o in_o some_o elect_a as_o manasseh_n and_o some_o of_o the_o corinthian_n before_o their_o conversion_n 1_o cor._n 6._o 9_o 10_o 11._o and_o because_o experience_n have_v often_o find_v that_o some_o of_o this_o sort_n go_v to_o public_a execution_n by_o the_o magistrate_n have_v be_v convert_v and_o save_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n a_o pastor_n shall_v not_o altogether_o despair_v of_o such_o vile_a man_n but_o essay_n what_o may_v be_v do_v by_o conference_n especial_o when_o god_n send_v calamity_n on_o they_o or_o the_o magistrate_n execut_v justice_n on_o they_o for_o any_o crime_n if_o possible_o such_o miscreant_n be_v convince_v of_o their_o perverseness_n may_v repent_v and_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n of_o such_o as_o fly_v unto_o he_o for_o remove_v the_o five_o impediment_n 1._o the_o five_o impediment_n of_o self-examination_n be_v a_o false_a fear_n of_o no_o small_a danger_n to_o their_o soul_n if_o they_o shall_v ripe_v up_o their_o conscience_n for_o bygones_a for_o see_v they_o feel_v themselves_o quiet_a they_o think_v it_o be_v unprofitable_a and_o dangerous_a to_o trouble_v their_o own_o peace_n such_o person_n will_v tell_v you_o that_o their_o faith_n be_v sure_o set_v on_o god_n and_o that_o they_o never_o have_v any_o doubt_n or_o suspicion_n of_o god_n love_n to_o they_o and_o therefore_o dare_v not_o trouble_v themselves_o with_o self-examination_n first_o because_o all_o sermon_n bid_v they_o firm_o trust_v in_o god_n second_o because_o they_o know_v if_o they_o shall_v trouble_v themselves_o with_o self-examination_n they_o may_v soon_o weaken_v their_o faith_n as_o they_o conceive_v three_o because_o they_o know_v the_o subtlety_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o say_v to_o who_o if_o a_o door_n be_v opâ—ned_v by_o search_n of_o their_o old_a way_n they_o fear_v he_o shall_v over-charge_n they_o with_o accusation_n and_o drive_v they_o to_o desperation_n as_o say_v they_o it_o have_v befall_v sundry_a who_o after_o waken_n their_o conscience_n never_o rest_v till_o they_o put_v hand_n in_o themselves_o not_o be_v able_a to_o bear_v the_o torment_n of_o their_o conscience_n there_o be_v other_o some_o who_o will_v they_o will_v they_o be_v draw_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n judgement_n and_o their_o conscience_n begin_v to_o stir_v against_o they_o which_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o do_v perceive_v incontinent_a they_o interrupt_v the_o process_n such_o a_o one_o be_v the_o heathen_a governor_n felix_n act._n 24_o 25._o who_o after_o hear_v for_o a_o little_a paul_n discourse_n of_o righteousness_n temperance_n and_o judgement_n to_o come_v do_v tremble_v and_o therefore_o desire_v paul_n to_o forbear_v for_o the_o time_n of_o this_o sort_n also_o be_v they_o who_o do_v withdraw_v themselves_o from_o church-meeting_n and_o hear_v of_o public_a sermon_n lest_o they_o shall_v be_v trouble_v with_o the_o serious_a speech_n of_o a_o faithful_a pastor_n some_o be_v also_o of_o this_o sort_n who_o take_v the_o course_n that_o king_n saul_n do_v take_v and_o call_v for_o a_o minstrel_n or_o for_o merry_a company_n to_o suppress_v the_o voice_n of_o their_o bark_a conscience_n or_o do_v by_o some_o such_o way_n divert_v their_o conscience_n from_o enter_v in_o judgement_n with_o they_o 2._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_n in_o the_o unregenerat_a man_n may_v be_v find_v these_o four_o beside_o other_o more_o particular_a first_o ignorance_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n prescribe_v of_o god_n ps._n 4._o 4._o or_o a_o voluntar_n mis-kenning_a that_o such_o a_o duty_n be_v require_v of_o all_o the_o second_o cause_n be_v a_o fix_a purpose_n to_o go_v on_o secure_o in_o their_o old_a way_n the_o three_o cause_n be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n they_o imagine_v they_o do_v find_v and_o have_v find_v of_o a_o long_a time_n in_o the_o carnal_a rest_n and_o sleep_v of_o their_o conscience_n the_o four_o cause_n be_v a_o persuasion_n that_o they_o can_v not_o rid_v themselves_o out_o of_o the_o grip_n of_o their_o conscience_n nor_o endure_v the_o blind_a blow_n which_o conscience_n set_v down_o on_o the_o tribunal_n shall_v inflict_v on_o they_o which_o sorrow_n and_o vexation_n they_o conceive_v they_o can_v otherways_o eshew_v but_o by_o throw_v down_o their_o conscience_n from_o the_o bench_n that_o he_o enter_v in_o no_o process_n against_o they_o 3._o when_o the_o pastor_n have_v to_o do_v with_o such_o a_o man_n his_o first_o care_n must_v be_v that_o this_o blind_a fear_n may_v be_v draw_v forth_o to_o the_o light_n by_o show_v he_o that_o this_o his_o fly_v from_o the_o light_n and_o hide_v himself_o in_o darkness_n be_v to_o no_o purpose_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o place_n for_o he_o to_o fly_v unto_o and_o hide_v himself_o from_o god_n second_o let_v he_o press_v the_o decree_n of_o god_n that_o all_o man_n must_v once_o die_v and_o then_o come_v to_o judgement_n wherein_o he_o can_v miss_v perpetual_a condemnation_n and_o endless_a torment_n from_o a_o angry_a judge_n except_o he_o now_o judge_v and_o condemn_v himself_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o mediator_n while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n while_o christ_n be_v exercise_v his_o mediatory-office_n and_o be_v invite_v all_o sinner_n to_o repent_v and_o call_v all_o weary_a and_o heavy_a load_v to_o come_v unto_o he_o three_o let_v the_o pastor_n show_v to_o those_o fearful_a person_n that_o this_o their_o tear_n be_v groundless_a for_o if_o they_o mind_n to_o draw_v in_o to_o god_n they_o need_v not_o fear_v to_o confess_v all_o their_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o his_o grace_n which_o if_o they_o do_v not_o the_o sleep_n which_o they_o love_v to_o lie_v into_o be_v deadly_a because_o god_n have_v say_v there_o be_v no_o peace_n to_o the_o wicked_a isa._n 48._o 21._o four_o let_v he_o press_v the_o precept_n for_o self-examination_n and_o judge_v ourselves_o ps._n 4._o 4._o and_o try_v whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o
2_o cor._n 13._o 5._o except_o they_o will_v choose_v to_o be_v judge_v of_o god_n without_o mercy_n but_o see_v here_o we_o speak_v to_o pastor_n or_o to_o such_o as_o aim_v at_o the_o holy_a ministry_n we_o need_v not_o insist_v but_o with_o the_o apostle_n 2_o tim._n 2._o 17._o pray_v the_o lord_n to_o give_v his_o servant_n wisdom_n and_o prudence_n in_o all_o thing_n for_o remove_v the_o six_o impediment_n the_o six_o impediment_n be_v a_o lazy_a and_o sluggish_a put_v off_o of_o the_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n from_o time_n to_o time_n and_o many_o be_v guilty_a of_o this_o sinful_a solly_n who_o will_v grant_v that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n lie_v on_o they_o to_o set_v their_o conscience_n on_o work_n for_o trial_n of_o their_o state_n or_o condition_n but_o like_o ill_a debtor_n who_o promise_v to_o pay_v as_o oft_o as_o they_o meet_v with_o their_o creditor_n do_v notwithstanding_o put_v off_o time_n and_o delay_v the_o work_n from_o day_n to_o day_n such_o man_n disposition_n in_o spiritual_a thing_n be_v well_o resemble_v in_o the_o description_n of_o the_o sluggard_n prov._n 6._o 10._o how_o long_o will_v thou_o sleep_v o_o sluggard_n when_o will_v thou_o arise_v out_o of_o thy_o sleep_n yet_o a_o little_a sleep_n a_o little_a slumber_n a_o little_a fold_n of_o the_o hand_n to_o sleep_v so_o shall_v thy_o poverty_n come_v as_o one_o that_o travail_v and_o thy_o want_n as_o a_o arm_a man_n and_o prov._n 26._o 14_o 15_o 16._o as_o the_o door_n turn_v upon_o his_o hinge_n so_o do_v the_o slothful_a man_n upon_o his_o bed_n the_o slothful_a hide_v his_o hand_n in_o his_o bosom_n it_o grieve_v he_o to_o bring_v it_o again_o to_o his_o mouth_n the_o sluggard_n be_v wise_a in_o his_o own_o conceit_n than_o seven_o man_n that_o can_v render_v a_o reason_n such_o be_v our_o lazy_a dâ—layers_n of_o examination_n of_o who_o we_o speak_v they_o can_v endure_v to_o be_v at_o pain_n to_o search_v their_o way_n or_o commune_v with_o their_o heart_n but_o so_o long_o as_o god_n suffer_v their_o conscience_n to_o sleep_v so_o long_o they_o put_v off_o the_o duty_n of_o search_v themselves_o and_o lie_v still_o in_o security_n esteem_v it_o a_o torture_n to_o have_v their_o sluggish_a sleep_v any_o way_n interrupt_v by_o any_o person_n 2._o of_o this_o evil_a disease_n five_o cause_n may_v be_v give_v the_o first_o be_v the_o abhor_v of_o all_o pain_n in_o spiritual_a duty_n how_o profitable_a so_o ever_o diligence_n may_v prove_v the_o second_o cause_n be_v the_o bewitch_a sense_n of_o sweetness_n they_o conceive_v they_o feel_v in_o this_o their_o idle_a carriage_n the_o three_o be_v the_o deceit_n of_o the_o sluggard_n heart_n still_o promise_v to_o follow_v his_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n from_o day_n to_o day_n and_o yet_o albeit_o deceive_v a_o thousand_o time_n he_o do_v give_v credit_n to_o his_o own_o false_a heart_n the_o four_o be_v a_o false_a opinion_n which_o the_o sluggard_n entertain_v of_o his_o own_o spiritual_a ability_n as_o if_o he_o be_v sure_o he_o can_v repent_v at_o any_o time_n and_o that_o if_o any_o sickness_n or_o appearance_n of_o death_n shall_v befall_v he_o he_o will_v then_o undoubted_o make_v his_o reckon_v with_o god_n and_o crave_v pardon_n and_o so_o be_v save_v and_o in_o such_o pleasant_a dream_n he_o count_v himself_o a_o much_o wise_a man_n than_o many_o who_o do_v put_v themselves_o to_o daily_a toil_a and_o vexation_n by_o keep_v their_o conscience_n on_o the_o rack-stock_n when_o with_o less_o misery_n they_o may_v follow_v his_o sluggish_a way_n of_o it_o the_o five_o but_o sinless_a cause_n be_v the_o lord_n lengthen_v of_o prosperity_n to_o the_o sluggard_n which_o although_o it_o shall_v lead_v he_o to_o repentance_n yet_o he_o become_v hereby_o more_o and_o more_o drunken_a and_o â—ulleth_v himself_o over_o in_o a_o deep_a sleep_n 3._o this_o sickness_n be_v not_o easy_o cure_v except_o the_o lord_n take_v up_o a_o rod_n and_o rouse_v the_o sluggard_n out_o of_o his_o sleep_n but_o as_o for_o the_o pastor_n part_n he_o shall_v do_v well_o in_o private_a if_o the_o sluggard_n confess_v his_o fault_n and_o howsoever_o to_o set_v a_o edge_n on_o the_o law_n in_o public_a that_o all_o such_o sluggard_n may_v apprehend_v the_o real_a danger_n their_o soul_n be_v into_o by_o delay_v their_o repentance_n because_o the_o endurance_n of_o this_o brittle_a and_o frail_a life_n be_v most_o uncertain_a for_o the_o fool_n know_v not_o whether_o the_o very_a next_o follow_v night_n after_o admonition_n be_v give_v to_o he_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v take_v from_o he_o second_o he_o must_v know_v that_o the_o long_o he_o delay_v the_o number_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o the_o hardness_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n against_o he_o do_v daily_o grow_v to_o a_o high_a measure_n let_v the_o sluggard_n then_o be_v convince_v of_o his_o madness_n if_o he_o shall_v delay_v for_o a_o hour_n by_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o christ_n to_o vomit_v up_o the_o deadly_a poison_n of_o his_o sweet_a sin_n and_o to_o have_v the_o hot_a burn_a wrath_n of_o god_n against_o he_o extinguish_v three_o let_v the_o deceit_n wherewith_o he_o beguile_v himself_o be_v lay_v open_a and_o refute_v and_o a_o offer_n be_v make_v unto_o he_o whether_o he_o will_v choose_v that_o his_o conscience_n be_v torment_v for_o ever_o in_o the_o society_n of_o unclean_a devil_n after_o a_o short_a while_n sleep_n in_o sin_n in_o this_o life_n rather_o than_o while_o he_o have_v time_n while_o christ_n offer_v himself_o mediator_n in_o his_o gospel_n while_o he_o may_v have_v the_o sweet_a fellowship_n of_o the_o saint_n he_o will_v choose_v to_o put_v his_o conscience_n to_o it_o and_o acknowledge_v his_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v have_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o so_o be_v save_v for_o ever_o for_o remove_v the_o seven_o impediment_n the_o seven_o impediment_n of_o self-examination_n be_v the_o too_o earnest_a care_n for_o earthly_a thing_n and_o the_o man_n involve_v himself_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o this_o life_n for_o there_o be_v many_o who_o do_v not_o refuse_v the_o duty_n of_o try_v their_o own_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n who_o notwithstanding_o of_o this_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n do_v spend_v all_o their_o time_n in_o the_o business_n of_o this_o world_n wherein_o they_o be_v so_o involve_v and_o carry_v headlong_o that_o they_o pass_v perfunctorious_o all_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o do_v neither_o wait_v for_o the_o direction_n of_o god_n word_n or_o of_o their_o own_o conscience_n about_o what_o they_o have_v to_o do_v nor_o call_v themselves_o to_o account_v for_o what_o be_v past_a do_v or_o not_o do_v of_o this_o sort_n arâ—_n these_o of_o who_o christ_n do_v speak_v luke_n 14._o 18._o who_o be_v invite_v to_o a_o free_a supper_n answer_v some_o of_o they_o i_o have_v buy_v land_n another_o i_o have_v marry_v a_o wife_n another_o i_o have_v buy_v a_o yoke_n of_o ox_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o seek_v to_o be_v excuse_v for_o their_o not_o come_v to_o the_o marriage_n all_o pretend_v their_o earthly_a affair_n as_o a_o just_a reason_n of_o their_o slip_n of_o the_o invitation_n give_v they_o of_o this_o sort_n of_o man_n speak_v christ_n math._n 13._o 22._o he_o that_o receive_v seed_n among_o the_o thorn_n be_v he_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o the_o care_n of_o this_o world_n and_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o riches_n chock_v the_o word_n and_o he_o become_v unfruitful_a this_o sort_n of_o man_n be_v complain_v of_o jer._n 8._o 6._o i_o hearken_v and_o beard_n but_o they_o speak_v not_o aright_o no_o man_n repent_v he_o of_o his_o wickedness_n say_v what_o have_v i_o do_v every_o one_o turn_v to_o his_o course_n as_o the_o horse_n rush_v into_o the_o battle_n 2._o of_o this_o evil_a four_o cause_n among_o other_o may_v be_v give_v first_o inordinat_fw-la concupiscence_n of_o earthly_a thing_n which_o eat_v up_o all_o the_o time_n and_o travel_n which_o the_o love_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a do_v call_v for_o and_o as_o it_o be_v spur_v the_o man_n to_o the_o immoderate_a pursue_v of_o thing_n temporal_a the_o second_o cause_n be_v the_o beguile_a of_o the_o conscience_n under_o the_o pretence_n of_o seek_v what_o be_v lawful_a and_o necessary_a for_o a_o man_n well-being_n in_o this_o life_n as_o if_o a_o man_n spend_v of_o his_o care_n and_o pain_n and_o time_n in_o earthly_a business_n in_o itself_o lawful_a be_v sufficient_a excuse_n for_o neglect_v thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a or_o as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o require_v of_o all_o man_n that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n point_v out_o the_o way_n of_o man_n salvation_n to_o prefer_v that_o one_o
thing_n necessary_a before_o all_o commodity_n of_o this_o earth_n for_o what_o can_v it_o avail_v a_o man_n to_o gain_v the_o whole_a earth_n if_o he_o lose_v his_o own_o soul_n the_o three_o cause_n be_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o riches_n which_o every_o man_n natural_o be_v incline_v to_o pursue_v too_o eager_o and_o which_o many_o pragmatic_n busy_a man_n do_v attain_v for_o god_n use_v to_o recompense_v every_o man_n diligence_n in_o a_o lawful_a occupation_n with_o a_o sort_n of_o external_a reward_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n with_o his_o work_n this_o success_n and_o reward_v of_o man_n industry_n and_o pain_n by_o increase_v busy_a man_n riches_n earthly-minded_n man_n do_v interpret_v to_o be_v the_o special_a blessing_n of_o god_n and_o a_o approbation_n of_o their_o immoderate_a pursue_v after_o thing_n earthly_a wherein_o they_o be_v much_o mistake_v for_o god_n never_o ordain_v any_o man_n civil_a calling_n to_o be_v a_o hindrance_n of_o the_o spiritual_a welfare_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o if_o any_o man_n neglect_v his_o soul_n and_o pursue_v worldly_a riches_n if_o he_o obtain_v they_o what_o can_v be_v say_v but_o very_o he_o have_v his_o reward_n and_o can_v look_v after_o the_o fruit_n of_o pain_n take_v in_o spiritual_a matter_n which_o he_o neglect_v the_o four_o cause_n be_v a_o light_a estimation_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o of_o matter_n concern_v salvation_n which_o by_o reason_n they_o fall_v not_o under_o sense_n and_o present_a possession_n but_o be_v offer_v to_o we_o in_o promise_n and_o be_v not_o bestow_v for_o the_o present_a therefore_o many_o be_v less_o careful_a for_o thing_n promise_v after_o this_o life_n and_o do_v follow_v the_o more_o eager_o after_o such_o thing_n whereof_o they_o can_v take_v hold_n in_o this_o life_n 3._o the_o way_n to_o cure_v this_o malady_n so_o far_o as_o pertain_v to_o a_o pastor_n be_v that_o both_o in_o public_a sermon_n and_o private_a conference_n he_o give_v unto_o thing_n lawful_a and_o to_o the_o follow_v of_o a_o man_n civil_a call_v the_o own_o room_n and_o time_n and_o wise_o let_v man_n know_v the_o subordination_n of_o all_o civil_a affair_n unto_o the_o welfare_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o so_o to_o lay_v open_a the_o peril_n of_o man_n soul_n when_o they_o be_v follow_v too_o too_o eager_o their_o civil_a vocation_n as_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o do_v not_o condemn_v man_n diligence_n in_o their_o calling_n but_o that_o he_o give_v direction_n for_o such_o a_o wise_a moderation_n of_o every_o man_n care_n about_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n that_o the_o precious_a excellency_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o infinite_a worth_n of_o eternal_a life_n be_v first_o and_o above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n provide_v for_o and_o that_o in_o the_o use_n or_o conquesh_v of_o riches_n no_o prejudice_n do_v come_v to_o his_o own_o salvation_n which_o be_v not_o possible_a a_o man_n shall_v do_v if_o he_o do_v not_o daily_o examine_v his_o own_o conscience_n careful_o and_o keep_v it_o in_o a_o tender_a disposition_n resort_v to_o christ_n upon_o all_o occasion_n for_o pardon_n of_o daily_a sin_n and_o keep_v he_o that_o if_o riches_n increase_v he_o may_v not_o set_v his_o heart_n thereon_o but_o may_v be_v forthcoming_a to_o the_o duty_n of_o charity_n towards_o other_o as_o his_o power_n shall_v be_v and_o opportunity_n shall_v be_v offer_v chap._n x._o concern_v they_o that_o be_v like_a to_o despair_v we_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o they_o who_o do_v hinder_v their_o own_o regeneration_n by_o abhor_v decline_a delay_v and_o shift_v off_o of_o the_o examination_n of_o their_o conscience_n the_o second_o sort_n or_o rank_n of_o those_o who_o hinder_v their_o own_o conversion_n be_v of_o such_o as_o after_o the_o waken_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n whether_o voluntary_a or_o by_o compulsion_n do_v despair_n of_o all_o remedy_n offer_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o gospel_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n and_o renounce_v the_o counsel_n of_o god_n do_v follow_v the_o counsel_n of_o satan_n and_o their_o own_o heart_n 2._o we_o distinguish_v a_o volountary_a examination_n of_o the_o conscience_n from_o a_o compel_a and_o enforce_a examination_n thereof_o as_o be_v hint_v at_o in_o the_o former_a section_n for_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o say_v of_o a_o man_n he_o have_v voluntary_o examine_v himself_o and_o find_v out_o his_o dittey_n and_o deserve_a judgement_n and_o to_o say_v of_o he_o he_o be_v force_v to_o examine_v himself_o and_o in_o himself_o to_o receive_v sentence_n according_a as_o his_o way_n have_v be_v for_o there_o be_v many_o who_o will_v not_o judge_v themselves_o yet_o after_o be_v force_v unto_o it_o against_o their_o will_n these_o be_v say_v to_o judge_v themselves_o voluntary_o who_o by_o a_o free_a act_n of_o their_o will_n do_v enter_v themselves_o to_o be_v judge_v of_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o do_v go_v about_o the_o work_n either_o slight_o and_o perfunctorious_o or_o strict_o and_o exact_o according_a to_o their_o knowledge_n of_o the_o â—ule_n but_o a_o compel_a examination_n be_v ever_o more_o exact_a and_o strict_a and_o join_v with_o the_o chastisement_n of_o the_o sinner_n for_o neglect_v or_o slight_v or_o delay_v of_o examination_n psal_n 50._o 21._o this_o distinction_n be_v hold_v forth_o to_o as_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 11._o 31_o 32._o if_o we_o will_v judge_v 〈◊〉_d self_n we_o shall_v not_o be_v judge_v but_o when_o we_o be_v judge_v we_o be_v chastened_a of_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v condemn_v with_o the_o world_n both_o these_o sort_n of_o examination_n have_v a_o blessing_n follow_v upon_o they_o when_o christ_n be_v 〈◊〉_d unto_o after_o examination_n but_o if_o christ_n be_v not_o flee_v unto_o than_o desperation_n may_v follow_v upon_o both_o slight_a and_o serious_a examination_n both_o upon_o voluntary_a and_o enforce_a examination_n 3._o we_o do_v not_o take_v desperation_n here_o for_o every_o dissidence_n of_o god_n perform_v of_o promise_n or_o of_o god_n make_v good_a of_o his_o gracious_a offer_n but_o for_o diffidence_n to_o obtain_v reconciliation_n with_o god_n or_o to_o find_v mercy_n through_o christ_n the_o mediator_n neither_o do_v we_o call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o desperation_n every_o diffidence_n to_o obtain_v mercy_n and_o reconciliation_n cast_v in_o man_n mind_n by_o the_o tempter_n satan_n and_o yield_v unto_o for_o a_o time_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n wrath_n for_o at_o some_o sit_v the_o diffidence_n will_v be_v find_v in_o renew_a saint_n as_o in_o jonab_n chap._n 2._o 4._o heman_n the_o ezrait_n psal._n 88_o 16._o david_n psal._n 116._o 11._o who_o seem_v to_o themselves_o for_o the_o time_n to_o be_v cast_v off_o but_o but_o do_v swim_v out_o of_o this_o deep_a by_o faith_n neither_o do_v we_o take_v desperation_n for_o every_o short_a or_o long_o eclipse_v of_o hope_n wherein_o a_o distress_a soul_n seem_v to_o its_o self_n to_o despair_v yea_o and_o may_v possible_o utter_v and_o profess_v they_o do_v despair_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n will_v not_o renounce_v the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o do_v get_v or_o recover_v hope_n such_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o heman_n the_o ezraite_n psal._n 88_o 14_o 15_o 16._o lord_n why_o cast_v thou_o off_o my_o soul_n why_o hide_v thou_o thy_o face_n from_o i_o i_o be_o afflict_v and_o ready_a to_o die_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v he_o think_v he_o be_v cast_v off_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o he_o go_v on_o daily_o pray_v for_o the_o sense_n of_o mercy_n and_o find_v it_o and_o be_v direct_v by_o god_n to_o acquaint_v the_o church_n unto_o all_o generation_n with_o his_o long_a and_o sad_a exercise_n but_o we_o take_v desperation_n for_o a_o prevalent_a impression_n make_v by_o satan_n upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n that_o god_n will_v not_o show_v he_o mercy_n and_o so_o fix_v in_o he_o as_o the_o man_n resolve_v not_o to_o deal_v with_o god_n any_o more_o for_o mercy_n 4._o of_o this_o proper_o call_v desperation_n there_o be_v two_o sort_n one_o which_o we_o may_v call_v careless_a and_o secute_v desperation_n another_o which_o we_o may_v call_v anxious_a and_o torment_a desperation_n cain_n desperation_n in_o his_o last_o resolution_n be_v of_o the_o first_o sort_n and_o judas_n desperation_n be_v of_o the_o other_o sort_n we_o call_v that_o a_o careless_a secure_a desperation_n when_o a_o sinner_n be_v convince_v of_o his_o gross_a and_o many_o sin_n either_o believe_v not_o god_n word_n or_o conceive_v god_n implacable_a and_o irreconciliable_a and_o to_o have_v destinate_a he_o to_o destruction_n according_a to_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n pronounce_v against_o such_o sinner_n as_o he_o know_v himself_o to_o be_v and_o
and_o covenant_n of_o work_n for_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o when_o god_n be_v deal_n with_o those_o that_o be_v already_o justify_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n and_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n and_o flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v take_v on_o his_o yoke_n the_o lord_n do_v take_v in_o good_a part_n the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n and_o do_v much_o esteem_n the_o tender_a fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o the_o place_n cite_v isa._n 1._o and_o 2_o cor._n 8._o do_v show_v but_o when_o the_o lord_n have_v to_o do_v with_o the_o proud_a natural_a man_n the_o unrenewed_a man_n the_o man_n that_o be_v not_o humble_v for_o violation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n he_o deal_v with_o he_o according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n according_a to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n pronounce_v his_o curse_n against_o that_o man_n for_o every_o sin_n till_o the_o sinner_n be_v humble_v and_o sly_a to_o christ._n 5._o with_o the_o former_a we_o may_v join_v all_o these_o who_o believe_v they_o may_v wash_v away_o their_o sin_n partly_o by_o bear_v such_o affliction_n as_o be_v lay_v on_o they_o by_o god_n in_o this_o life_n partly_o by_o their_o tear_n prayer_n fasting_n pilgrimage_n penance_n and_o scourge_v of_o themselves_o and_o partly_o by_o their_o almsdeed_n and_o other_o good_a work_n do_v believe_v they_o shall_v make_v amends_o for_o all_o their_o misdeed_n and_o what_o they_o can_v perfect_v in_o this_o life_n for_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o good_a work_n they_o will_v take_v assignation_n to_o the_o supererogation_n and_o superfluity_n of_o the_o merit_n of_o saint_n make_v over_o unto_o they_o by_o the_o pope_n and_o what_o for_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o suffering_n be_v not_o endure_v in_o this_o life_n they_o will_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o endure_v in_o a_o imaginary_a purgatory_n and_o place_n of_o hell_n after_o this_o life_n and_o so_o poor_a soul_n they_o think_v they_o may_v absolve_v themselves_o at_o least_o from_o the_o sentence_n of_o everlasting_a condemnation_n by_o such_o poor_a shift_n as_o those_o but_o the_o truth_n be_v so_o long_o as_o they_o rely_v upon_o their_o own_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n they_o deny_v both_o the_o necessity_n and_o the_o worth_n of_o christ_n suffering_n and_o so_o long_o as_o they_o have_v confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n or_o work_n of_o other_o man_n they_o reject_v and_o disclaim_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o yet_o behold_v how_o proud_a they_o prove_v themselves_o to_o be_v isa._n 58._o 3._o when_o they_o plead_v with_o god_n say_v wherefore_o have_v we_o fast_v and_o thou_o see_v not_o wherefore_o have_v we_o afflict_v our_o soul_n and_o thou_o take_v no_o knowledge_n 6._o last_o of_o all_o unto_o the_o former_a sort_n we_o join_v these_o who_o please_v themselves_o in_o the_o composition_n of_o righteousness_n by_o work_n and_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n think_v to_o save_v themselves_o under_o the_o shelter_n of_o the_o one_o righteousness_n or_o of_o the_o other_o however_o god_n shall_v deal_v with_o they_o such_o be_v the_o seducer_n and_o seduce_v among_o the_o galatian_n for_o refute_v of_o whole_a error_n the_o apostle_n as_o it_o be_v travel_v in_o birth_n till_o he_o bring_v they_o to_o take_v up_o the_o right_a frame_n of_o christ_n way_n of_o salvation_n 7._o the_o cause_n of_o all_o such_o man_n deceive_v of_o themselves_o in_o a_o false_a absolution_n of_o their_o conscience_n be_v their_o ignorance_n both_o of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o the_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n for_o such_o as_o think_v their_o sin_n be_v so_o few_o and_o light_n or_o their_o life_n so_o innocent_a or_o their_o good_a work_n they_o have_v do_v so_o weighty_a and_o their_o purpose_n to_o do_v yet_o more_o good_a work_n to_o be_v so_o holy_a or_o their_o pain_n take_v in_o religion_n so_o considerable_a or_o their_o suffering_n resolve_v upon_o so_o great_a and_o thereupon_o do_v absolve_v themselves_o consider_v not_o that_o the_o law_n or_o covenant_n of_o work_n do_v require_v perfect_a personal_a obedience_n to_o all_o god_n law_n under_o the_o pain_n of_o god_n curse_n grow_v in_o item_n as_o the_o law_n be_v often_o transgress_v till_o they_o fly_v in_o to_o the_o perfect_a ransom_n of_o christ_n obedience_n and_o as_o for_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n in_o jesus_n they_o consider_v not_o that_o his_o righteousness_n will_v not_o be_v bestow_v upon_o any_o who_o do_v not_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o or_o other_o work_n and_o betake_v themselves_o altogether_o to_o the_o only_a grace_n of_o christ_n they_o consider_v not_o that_o if_o the_o worth_n of_o any_o work_n be_v rely_v upon_o the_o bargain_n of_o free_a grace_n be_v spoil_v and_o clear_v mar_v for_o if_o it_o he_o by_o work_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o grace_n and_o if_o it_o be_v of_o grace_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o work_n for_o these_o two_o be_v so_o opposite_a one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o man_n election_n and_o justification_n that_o they_o can_v no_o more_o consist_v together_o as_o cause_n procure_v or_o move_v god_n than_o contradictory_n sentence_n can_v be_v both_o true_a as_o paul_n teach_v rom._n 11._o 6._o 3_o a_o three_o sort_n of_o self-deceiver_n and_o unwarrant_v self-â—bâ—olvers_a we_o reckon_v all_o person_n poison_v with_o deadly_a heresy_n who_o be_v draw_v away_o from_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n set_v down_o in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n turn_v after_o some_o false_a christ_n and_o false_a religion_n of_o man_n or_o their_o own_o devise_v give_v unto_o their_o idol_n what_o worship_n what_o service_n what_o employment_n what_o power_n they_o please_v and_o make_v their_o own_o condition_n of_o peace_n with_o god_n as_o they_o think_v good_a some_o deny_v the_o eternity_n of_o the_o godhead_n of_o the_o true_a christ_n some_o the_o reality_n of_o his_o assume_v humane_a nature_n some_o evacuate_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v his_o three_o office_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o his_o execution_n thereof_o all_o of_o they_o promise_v to_o themselves_o salvation_n in_o another_o then_o in_o the_o true_a christ_n describe_v to_o we_o in_o scripture_n who_o be_v creator_n up-holder_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o thing_n very_o coeternal_a god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n make_v man_n everliving_a prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n to_o his_o church_n both_o before_o his_o incarnation_n and_o constant_o since_o the_o way_n the_o truth_n and_o the_o life_n make_v of_o god_n unto_o true_a believer_n in_o he_o wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n who_o walk_n among_o the_o golden_a candle-stick_n and_o search_v the_o way_n and_o heart_n of_o every_o man_n as_o he_o hold_v forth_o himself_o in_o these_o epistle_n unto_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n revel_v chap._n 2._o and_o 3._o of_o this_o danger_n of_o mistake_v the_o true_a christ_n and_o embrace_v a_o false_a in_o his_o room_n he_o himself_o do_v careful_o forewarn_a his_o disciple_n math._n 24._o 4_o 5_o 24_o 25_o 26_o take_v heed_n that_o no_o man_n deceive_v you_o for_o many_o shall_v come_v in_o my_o name_n say_v i_o be_o christ_n and_o shall_v deceive_v many_o the_o proper_a remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v this_o let_v every_o one_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n not_o only_o in_o these_o seven_o epistle_n but_o also_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o be_v the_o expression_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n but_o if_o any_o man_n receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o love_n set_v down_o by_o the_o lord_n spirit_n in_o the_o scripture_n his_o punishment_n be_v set_v down_o by_o the_o apostle_n 2_o thess_n 2._o 11._o and_o for_o this_o cause_n to_o wit_n because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o love_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v god_n shall_v send_v they_o strong_a delusion_n that_o they_o shall_v believe_v a_o lie_n that_o they_o all_o may_v be_v damn_v who_o believe_v not_o the_o truth_n but_o have_v pleasure_n in_o unrighteousness_n 1._o the_o four_o sort_n of_o absolver_n of_o themselves_o without_o god_n warrant_n be_v these_o who_o pretend_v unto_o true_a religion_n and_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o of_o who_o some_o be_v couvince_v of_o their_o duty_n to_o repent_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o forsake_v their_o lust_n and_o to_o endeavour_v a_o reformation_n of_o their_o life_n and_o this_o they_o do_v promise_n to_o themselves_o and_o purpose_n serious_o to_o do_v as_o they_o think_v only_o they_o can_v present_o and_o at_o once_o break_v off_o the_o course_n they_o be_v upon_o but_o do_v hope_n by_o little_a and_o little_a to_o come_v forward_o
deep_o call_v unto_o deep_a at_o the_o noise_n of_o thy_o water-spout_n all_o thy_o wave_n and_o billow_n be_v go_v over_o i_o and_o psal._n 77._o 7_o 8._o will_n the_o lord_n cast_v off_o for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o be_v his_o grace_n clean_o go_v for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o etc._n etc._n at_o last_o he_o discover_v his_o duty_n to_o believe_v in_o god_n and_o conclude_v against_o himself_o that_o his_o give_v so_o far_o way_n to_o the_o tentation_n be_v his_o infirmity_n 19_o we_o must_v distinguish_v worldy_a sorrow_n and_o hypochondriack-passion_n and_o perturbation_n of_o mind_n from_o case_n of_o conscience_n and_o spiritual_a exercise_n in_o the_o wrestle_n of_o faith_n that_o for_o a_o natural_a disease_n and_o distemper_v a_o pertinent_a remedy_n may_v be_v call_v for_o from_o the_o bodily_a physician_n and_o to_o such_o as_o be_v under_o a_o spiritual_a exercise_n the_o doubt_n of_o their_o conscience_n may_v be_v prudent_o louse_v in_o such_o a_o case_n when_o both_o the_o bodily_a distemper_n and_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v join_v circumspection_n be_v necessary_a that_o proportionable_a remedy_n be_v use_v by_o the_o physician_n and_o the_o pastor_n or_o prudent_a friend_n that_o bodily_a medicine_n and_o spiritual_a consolation_n may_v be_v each_o in_o their_o own_o time_n and_o order_n wise_o make_v use_n of_o and_o because_o it_o use_v to_o fall_v out_o that_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n and_o distemper_n of_o bodily_a humour_n be_v oftentimes_o join_v one_o with_o another_o let_v it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o a_o word_n be_v casten_z in_o here_o for_o advertisement_n 20._o in_o cure_v case_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o louse_v some_o one_o doubt_n or_o other_o but_o after_o satisfaction_n give_v to_o the_o party_n afflict_v concern_v the_o present_a case_n which_o have_v trouble_v they_o they_o must_v learn_v to_o observe_v other_o cause_n which_o may_v trouble_v they_o afterward_o wherewith_o for_o the_o present_a they_o possible_o be_v not_o trouble_v and_o must_v be_v direct_v to_o acquaint_v themselves_o with_o christ_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v relief_n from_o every_o sin_n and_o every_o sort_n of_o misery_n and_o to_o that_o end_n and_o purpose_n they_o must_v consecrat_v and_o devout_a themselves_o to_o he_o to_o depend_v upon_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n and_o at_o all_o time_n whatsoever_o way_n he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o exercise_v they_o for_o whosoever_o do_v come_v unto_o christ_n must_v come_v of_o set_a purpose_n to_o abide_v in_o he_o and_o never_o depart_v from_o he_o but_o to_o live_v in_o he_o and_o draw_v grace_n after_o grace_n out_o of_o his_o fullness_n grace_n to_o mortify_v sin_n grace_v to_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n daily_o according_a as_o they_o find_v new_a guiltiness_n contract_v and_o weakness_n in_o themselves_o to_o do_v command_v duty_n for_o except_o the_o do_v so_o they_o shall_v easy_o slide_v back_o from_o their_o begin_a sanctification_n and_o furnish_v mater_fw-la to_o satan_n for_o raise_v of_o new_a doubt_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o new_a tentation_n unto_o sin_n wherein_o they_o have_v not_o fall_v before_o therefore_o must_v they_o keep_v the_o habit_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n in_o actual_a exercise_n daily_o 21._o in_o deal_v with_o a_o trouble_a conscience_n let_v not_o the_o comforter_n whether_o a_o pastor_n or_o a_o prudent_a friend_n trust_v to_o his_o ability_n or_o arrogat_fw-la to_o himself_o above_o what_o be_v due_a to_o he_o but_o let_v he_o keep_v his_o eye_n upon_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o his_o heart_n be_v pray_v to_o god_n to_o bless_v the_o word_n in_o his_o mouth_n giving_z glory_n to_o god_n express_o if_o he_o perceive_v the_o afflict_a party_n lay_v hold_n on_o god_n word_n deliver_v by_o he_o and_o let_v he_o also_o teach_v the_o afflict_a to_o lift_v his_o eye_n to_o the_o lord_n when_o the_o word_n of_o consolation_n be_v dispense_v to_o he_o by_o the_o minister_n or_o prudent_a friend_n that_o god_n may_v have_v the_o glory_n in_o his_o consolation_n and_o no_o more_o ascribe_v to_o the_o instrument_n than_o be_v due_a for_o the_o minister_n may_v sow_v the_o seed_n and_o plant_v and_o water_n but_o god_n only_o can_v give_v the_o increase_n man_n be_v ready_a to_o fail_v in_o this_o point_n and_o mar_v the_o blessing_n for_o god_n be_v a_o jealous_a god_n and_o will_v not_o give_v his_o glory_n to_o another_o 22._o in_o case_n the_o expect_a consolation_n be_v not_o find_v or_o the_o doubt_n propound_v be_v not_o solve_v so_o soon_o as_o be_v desire_v let_v the_o afflict_a be_v exhort_v that_o he_o make_v not_o haste_n in_o seek_v comfort_n but_o patient_o submit_v himself_o to_o god_n will_v in_o exercise_v he_o for_o a_o while_n and_o humble_v himself_o under_o his_o mighty_a hand_n in_o meekness_n wait_v for_o clearness_n and_o comfort_n in_o due_a time_n for_o affliction_n be_v send_v to_o work_v patience_n and_o patience_n to_o work_v experience_n and_o experience_n to_o work_v hope_n which_o shall_v not_o make_v the_o patient_a man_n ashamed_a and_o it_o be_v far_o better_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o lie_v for_o a_o time_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o affliction_n till_o it_o be_v daunt_v and_o subdue_v then_o before_o patience_n have_v have_v the_o perfect_a work_n to_o seek_v to_o have_v its_o foolish_a wish_n grant_v unto_o it_o for_o if_o once_o a_o soul_n hearty_o submit_v itself_o to_o god_n or_o strive_v to_o submit_v and_o patient_o wait_v on_o consolation_n will_v be_v find_v not_o far_o off_o 23._o in_o regard_v the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n work_v the_o conversion_n of_o a_o man_n may_v begin_v before_o it_o can_v be_v mark_v it_o be_v the_o part_n of_o he_o who_o meddle_v with_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n to_o deal_v tender_o with_o the_o afflict_a and_o so_o to_o temper_v his_o speech_n as_o he_o may_v both_o further_a repentance_n and_o faith_n pre-supposing_a the_o party_n exercise_n may_v prove_v a_o begin_a work_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v better_a so_o to_o judge_v in_o charity_n of_o god_n dispensation_n then_o to_o foster_v sinister_a suspicion_n of_o the_o party_n afflict_v which_o may_v ready_o break_v forth_o in_o some_o unhappy_a expression_n to_o the_o hurt_v of_o the_o patient_a and_o hinder_v his_o profit_v by_o what_o may_v be_v say_v beside_o 24._o because_o we_o have_v to_o do_v in_o this_o book_n with_o the_o weak_a believer_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n be_v flee_v or_o fly_v unto_o christ_n with_o a_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n but_o do_v fear_v they_o be_v not_o or_o shall_v not_o be_v admit_v into_o that_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n for_o this_o and_o that_o pretend_a reason_n therefore_o it_o will_v be_v to_o purpose_n in_o comfort_v they_o to_o make_v use_n as_o of_o other_o scripture_n so_o in_o special_a of_o these_o two_o passage_n the_o one_o 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o the_o other_o 1_o cor._n 1_o 30._o the_o one_o serve_v to_o convince_v they_o that_o they_o be_v already_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o of_o the_o number_n of_o believer_n in_o christ_n how_o strong_o soever_o they_o be_v assault_v with_o fear_n doubt_n and_o suspicion_n that_o it_o be_v otherways_o for_o in_o this_o passage_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o the_o apostle_n sum_v up_o the_o whole_a gospel_n in_o few_o word_n hold_v forth_o first_o that_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n in_o three_o person_n be_v in_o the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o godhead_n the_o mediator_n christ_n jesus_n and_o be_v upon_o the_o work_n of_o reconcile_a the_o world_n to_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o transgression_n unto_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o gracious_a offer_n of_o reconciliation_n tender_v through_o christ_n in_o the_o gospel_n second_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n â—ath_v commit_v unto_o his_o minister_n the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n that_o they_o with_o authority_n may_v offer_v reconciliation_n and_o friendship_n with_o god_n unto_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n three_o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v send_v forth_o and_o direct_v as_o ambassador_n to_o exhort_v and_o request_v mâ—n_z in_o god_n name_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n god_n mediator_n manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n four_o that_o so_o many_o as_o do_v consent_n unto_o and_o embrace_v the_o gracious_a offer_n of_o reconciliation_n be_v reckon_v to_o be_v believer_n even_o all_o they_o who_o do_v acknowledge_v their_o natural_a enimity_n and_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o do_v welcome_a the_o message_n of_o reconciliation_n send_v by_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o do_v engage_v themselves_o to_o hold_v fast_o this_o covenant_n
aim_v to_o walk_v as_o reconcile_v child_n and_o servant_n unto_o god_n upright_o lay_v forth_o their_o burden_n and_o desire_n before_o he_o daily_o all_o these_o i_o say_v be_v believer_n in_o christ_n and_o may_v assure_v themselves_o of_o reconciliation_n for_o there_o be_v no_o more_o in_o the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n commission_n require_v for_o enter_v of_o the_o humble_a sinner_n into_o a_o covenant_n of_o friendship_n save_o this_o we_o request_v you_o in_o god_n name_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n incarnate_a jesus_n christ_n the_o mediator_n we_o beseech_v you_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n v_o 20._o now_o we_o judge_v that_o humble_v sinner_n flee_v to_o christ_n and_o purpose_v to_o amend_v their_o life_n by_o his_o grace_n will_v not_o be_v find_v unwilling_a to_o accept_v this_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n but_o will_v declare_v their_o hearty_a consent_n to_o this_o offer_n and_o so_o may_v be_v convince_v that_o a_o covenant_n be_v close_v between_o god_n and_o they_o and_o that_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o they_o save_v faith_n how_o weak_a soever_o it_o seem_v unto_o they_o for_o the_o consent_n unto_o and_o accept_v of_o this_o offer_n be_v the_o condition_n require_v for_o enter_v in_o covenant_n and_o the_o proper_a act_n of_o save_a faith_n five_o the_o apostle_n hold_v forth_o the_o ground-right_a of_o this_o covenant_n and_o reason_n whereupon_o the_o sinner_n flee_v to_o christ_n may_v be_v assure_v of_o justification_n because_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n pass_v between_o god_n in_o three_o person_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o godhead_n as_o mediator_n and_o perfect_a redeemer_n by_o price-paying_a on_o the_o other_o hand_n it_o be_v agree_v final_o end_v and_o decree_v that_o christ_n satisfaction_n make_v for_o the_o imbracer_n of_o this_o offer_a reconciliation_n shall_v as_o certain_o make_v the_o believer_n judicial_o righteous_a and_o justify_v he_o as_o christ_n be_v judicial_o make_v sin_n or_o a_o sacrifice_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o redeem_v for_o god_n say_v he_o v_o 21._o have_v make_v christ_n to_o be_v sin_n for_o we_o who_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o therefore_o as_o christ_n the_o only_a mediator_n by_o accept_v the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n have_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o redeem_v impute_v unto_o he_o albeit_o there_o be_v no_o sin_n at_o all_o nor_o can_v be_v in_o he_o and_o be_v punish_v for_o they_o unto_o the_o death_n of_o the_o cross_n so_o the_o humble_a sinner_n by_o fly_v unto_o christ_n and_o accept_v the_o offer_a covenant_n of_o reconciliation_n have_v christ_n satisfaction_n impute_v unto_o he_o albeit_o he_o can_v see_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o a_o mass_n of_o inherent_a sin_n and_o shall_v not_o enter_v into_o condemnation_n but_o be_v bring_v to_o life-eternal_a through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n both_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n make_v with_o christ_n in_o the_o redeemer_n name_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o reconciliation_n make_v with_o we_o through_o christ_n be_v of_o god_n make_v and_o so_o must_v stand_v and_o can_v be_v dis-annulled_n for_o ever_o the_o other_o place_n 1_o cor._n 1._o 30._o hold_v forth_o the_o right_n which_o god_n have_v make_v to_o the_o believer_n unto_o the_o unsearchable_a riches_n of_o christ_n whereunto_o the_o weak_a believer_n flee_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n unto_o christ_n as_o the_o refuge_n and_o perfect_a remedy_n from_o both_o may_v claim_v namely_o wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n by_o he_o and_o that_o by_o covenant_n and_o decree_v registrat_n in_o this_o and_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n as_o judicial_o declare_v and_o adjudge_v unto_o all_o and_o every_o believer_n in_o he_o so_o that_o they_o may_v and_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o christ_n as_o make_v unto_o they_o wisdom_n to_o direct_v they_o justification_n to_o justify_v they_o sanctification_n to_o perfect_v they_o piece_n and_o piece_n in_o holiness_n and_o redemption_n to_o support_v they_o under_o and_o deliver_v they_o from_o all_o bond_n of_o misery_n for_o the_o better_a understanding_n of_o this_o rich_a passage_n we_o shall_v take_v it_o up_o in_o four_o sentence_n pronounce_v from_o the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o the_o apostle_n in_o every_o one_o whereof_o these_o three_o thing_n be_v insinuat_fw-la and_o import_v first_o our_o need_n of_o christ_n 2._o his_n engage_v help_n and_o supply_v and_o 3._o our_o duty_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o and_o make_v use_n of_o he_o according_a to_o the_o right_n and_o interest_n in_o he_o make_v unto_o every_o believer_n the_o first_o sentence_n be_v this_o christ_n be_v make_v unto_o we_o wisdom_n which_o import_v first_o that_o not_o only_o we_o be_v by_o nature_n blind_a and_o ignorant_a of_o our_o sin_n and_o misery_n blind_a and_o ignorant_a of_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n and_o right_a manner_n of_o serve_v god_n but_o also_o after_o that_o we_o be_v illuminat_fw-la by_o grace_n and_o make_v in_o some_o measure_n to_o know_v our_o last_o condition_n and_o to_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o delivery_n we_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o much_o darkness_n and_o foggy_a mist_n of_o doubt_n error_n and_o mistake_n and_o have_v need_n to_o be_v in_o every_o step_n of_o our_o way_n direct_v and_o powerful_o teach_v by_o christ_n word_n and_o spirit_n to_o know_v what_o be_v that_o good_a and_o acceptable_a will_n of_o god_n second_o it_o import_v that_o as_o christ_n be_v the_o treasure_n of_o all_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n who_o have_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n the_o whole_a counsel_n of_o god_n concern_v our_o salvation_n so_o he_o be_v judicial_o make_v over_o unto_o we_o as_o anoint_a prophet_n to_o his_o church_n to_o make_v know_v unto_o we_o the_o way_n of_o life_n by_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n three_o it_o import_v our_o duty_n to_o receive_v he_o as_o the_o great_a gift_n of_o god_n and_o to_o give_v up_o ourselves_o to_o his_o teach_n to_o employ_v he_o and_o depend_v upon_o he_o as_o prophet_n appoint_v to_o we_o for_o direction_n by_o his_o word_n what_o to_o believe_v and_o how_o to_o live_v before_o god_n whereupon_o the_o weak_a believer_n may_v trust_v in_o he_o for_o guide_v they_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o exercise_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v by_o he_o unto_o salvation_n because_o he_o be_v make_v of_o god_n unto_o we_o wisdom_n and_o intimation_n thereof_o be_v make_v by_o his_o apostle_n the_o second_o sentence_n be_v this_o christ_n be_v make_v of_o god_n unto_o we_o righteousness_n which_o presupponeth_n first_o that_o we_o be_v by_o nature_n destitute_a of_o righteousness_n condemn_v as_o unrighteous_a by_o the_o law_n and_o unable_a to_o deliver_v ourselves_o from_o condemnation_n and_o when_o we_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o deliver_v from_o condemnation_n that_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o stand_v in_o that_o state_n but_o by_o our_o daily_a sin_n wherein_o we_o fall_v do_v deserve_v to_o be_v condemn_v as_o unrighteous_a second_o it_o import_v that_o christ_n be_v not_o only_o righteous_a in_o himself_o and_o able_a to_o satisfy_v divine_a justice_n for_o our_o sin_n but_o also_o have_v undertake_v to_o pay_v and_o actual_o have_v pay_v the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n by_o his_o obedience_n unto_o the_o father_n even_o to_o the_o dâ—ath_n of_o the_o cross_n and_o have_v take_v on_o he_o the_o office_n of_o high_a priest_n to_o apply_v unto_o we_o absolution_n from_o our_o sin_n make_v we_o accept_v and_o to_o be_v deal_v with_o as_o righteous_a and_o to_o keep_v we_o in_o that_o bless_a estate_n by_o his_o intercession_n three_o it_o import_v our_o duty_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n our_o cautioner_n by_o virtue_n of_o our_o right_n and_o interest_n in_o he_o grant_v and_o intimate_fw-la unto_o we_o and_o so_o to_o rest_v on_o he_o that_o whatsoever_o satan_n conscience_n or_o law_n violat_a by_o we_o shalâ—_n say_v we_o who_o be_v fâ—ed_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n to_o he_o may_v oppose_v this_o sentence_n of_o our_o absolution_n registrat_n here_o christ_n be_v make_v unto_o we_o righteousness_n judicial_o by_o the_o decree_n and_o decreet_a of_o god_n the_o three_o sentence_n be_v this_o christ_n be_v make_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n sanctification_n which_o presupponeth_n that_o in_o the_o justify_v believer_n there_o be_v remain_v still_o the_o relic_n of_o sin_n inherent_a from_o which_o we_o be_v not_o able_a of_o ourselves_o to_o deliver_v ourselves_o but_o have_v need_n of_o divine_a power_n to_o mortify_v sin_n in_o we_o and_o to_o repair_v the_o image_n of_o god_n by_o increase_a holiness_n in_o we_o second_o it_o import_v that_o christ_n the_o mediator_n the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n have_v not_o only_o pay_v the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n
do_v acknowledge_v that_o they_o deserve_v death_n for_o their_o sin_n do_v confess_v they_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o christ_n do_v thirst_n for_o his_o righteousness_n do_v desire_v earnest_o to_o be_v unite_v unto_o he_o by_o faith_n do_v follow_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o do_v endeavour_v to_o keep_v their_o conscience_n undefiled_a in_o all_o thing_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o do_v not_o only_o doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v renew_v but_o also_o do_v esteem_v it_o a_o presumptuous_a rashness_n in_o they_o to_o approach_v unto_o christ_n or_o to_o cast_v themselves_o over_o on_o he_o by_o faith_n before_o they_o be_v more_o serious_o humble_v before_o they_o feel_v a_o more_o hearty_a sorrow_n and_o grief_n before_o they_o feel_v the_o pang_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n more_o sharp_a before_o they_o be_v more_o press_v with_o the_o burden_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o do_v feel_v in_o themselves_o the_o spirit_n of_o fear_n and_o tremble_a and_o bondage_n in_o a_o high_a measure_n from_o who_o if_o you_o ask_v a_o reason_n of_o their_o doubt_n they_o shall_v answer_v that_o they_o be_v not_o yet_o call_v to_o come_v unto_o christ_n because_o these_o be_v only_o call_v to_o come_v unto_o christ_n who_o be_v weary_a and_o load_v in_o the_o superlative_a degree_n and_o be_v so_o bear_v down_o with_o the_o weight_n of_o sin_n as_o they_o can_v be_v more_o and_o not_o despair_v for_o so_o do_v they_o interpret_v that_o say_n of_o christ_n matth._n 11._o 28._o christ_n be_v send_v only_o to_o the_o contrite_a and_o break_a in_o heart_n who_o sit_v in_o the_o dust_n under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n that_o be_v to_o say_v as_o they_o take_v it_o to_o they_o who_o be_v under_o grief_n unspeakable_a as_o they_o expound_v isa._n 61._o 1_o 2_o 3._o so_o in_o their_o opinion_n christ_n come_v to_o save_v only_o those_o who_o in_o their_o own_o sense_n be_v lose_v that_o be_v who_o be_v on_o the_o brink_n of_o desperation_n wherefore_o in_o respect_n they_o be_v not_o go_v down_o deep_a enough_o as_o they_o think_v into_o this_o gulf_n and_o hell_n of_o anguish_n and_o sorrow_n they_o dare_v not_o approach_v or_o look_v towards_o christ._n mean_a time_n they_o lie_v daily_o mourn_v and_o weep_v and_o will_v not_o grant_v that_o their_o grief_n be_v worthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o grief_n which_o sorrow_n they_o can_v dissemble_v or_o hide_v but_o do_v bewray_v it_o in_o their_o countenance_n habit_n walk_v and_o frequent_a sigh_v and_o will_v profess_v that_o they_o can_v hardly_o think_v they_o have_v right_a to_o eat_v or_o drink_v of_o god_n creature_n and_o be_v it_o not_o for_o fear_v of_o add_v yet_o more_o sin_n to_o the_o former_a they_o will_v not_o eat_v or_o drink_v at_o all_o ofttimes_o they_o chatter_v as_o swallow_n and_o sigh_n as_o the_o turtle_n dove_n and_o ofttimes_o their_o bowel_n sound_v out_o as_o if_o their_o parent_n or_o child_n or_o near_a relation_n be_v dead_a and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o do_v not_o satisfy_v themselves_o in_o sorrow_n but_o do_v complain_v that_o they_o be_v stupid_a and_o senseless_a of_o their_o sinful_a and_o miserable_a condition_n wherein_o they_o do_v lie_v bind_v and_o though_o they_o do_v confess_v that_o sometime_o they_o mourn_v yet_o they_o allege_v their_o mourning_n be_v but_o like_o the_o early_a dew_n or_o morning_n cloud_n that_o go_v soon_o away_o all_o the_o while_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o offer_v to_o the_o afflict_a consolation_n in_o christ_n because_o say_v he_o i_o be_o not_o one_o of_o the_o mourner_n in_o zion_n who_o he_o will_v comfort_v and_o in_o this_o their_o mistake_n they_o do_v confirm_v themselves_o by_o another_o error_n say_v that_o the_o measure_n of_o repentance_n and_o sorrow_n shall_v answer_v unto_o the_o measure_n of_o sin_n my_o sin_n say_v he_o go_v far_o beyond_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o this_o and_o the_o like_a objection_n they_o cast_v in_o whereby_o they_o do_v obstruct_v their_o own_o way_n unto_o christ_n and_o keep_v themselves_o aback_o from_o he_o till_o they_o be_v satisfy_v with_o their_o own_o prescribe_a measure_n of_o sorrow_n which_o case_n indeed_o deserve_v much_o compassion_n for_o who_o will_v not_o commiserat_fw-la their_o case_n who_o be_v in_o a_o very_a miserable_a condition_n dare_v not_o seek_v relief_n from_o their_o own_o misery_n which_o they_o do_v feel_v and_o all_o because_o they_o be_v not_o yet_o more_o miserable_a and_o when_o they_o be_v ask_v can_v determine_v what_o measure_n of_o affect_a humiliation_n they_o will_v stand_v at_o as_o sufficient_a 2._o in_o the_o cure_n of_o this_o case_n as_o much_o must_v be_v yield_v to_o the_o afflict_a as_o reasonable_o can_v be_v and_o first_o it_o must_v be_v confess_v that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o who_o approach_n unto_o christ_n to_o come_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o miserable_a condition_n and_o that_o the_o due_a deserve_n of_o their_o sin_n be_v everlasting_a death_n it_o must_v be_v confess_v also_o that_o the_o measure_n of_o compunction_n contrition_n and_o lamentation_n for_o sin_n may_v possible_o be_v exceed_v great_a as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o experience_n of_o heman_n the_o ezrait_n psal_n 88_o 11._o i_o be_o afflict_v and_o ready_a to_o die_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v and_o david_n ps._n 38._o this_o also_o further_o must_v be_v yield_v unto_o he_o that_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o conviction_n by_o the_o law_n do_v ordinary_o and_o of_o its_o own_o nature_n go_v before_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n or_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o gospel_n according_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n so_o that_o no_o man_n can_v in_o earnest_a embrace_n christ_n as_o a_o physician_n as_o mediator_n and_o saviour_n of_o his_o soul_n except_o he_o be_v sensible_a of_o his_o disease_n acknowledge_v his_o natural_a enmity_n against_o god_n and_o his_o own_o lose_a condition_n be_v by_o nature_n under_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n second_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v agree_v upon_o the_o afflict_a person_n may_v be_v pose_v concern_v the_o measure_n of_o the_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n whether_o it_o must_v be_v the_o same_o in_o every_o convert_n to_o wit_n in_o that_o extremity_n and_o superlative_a degree_n which_o he_o do_v miss_v and_o desiderat_fw-la in_o himself_o and_o how_o long_o that_o sorrow_n in_o this_o eminent_a measure_n must_v continue_v by_o this_o question_n he_o can_v choose_v but_o be_v at_o a_o stand_n and_o unable_a to_o answer_v with_o scripture-warrand_a for_o the_o scripture_n do_v indeed_o require_v serious_a repentance_n but_o the_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n and_o sadness_n it_o do_v not_o prescribe_v for_o matth._n chap._n 3._o v._n 2._o 6._o many_o upon_o the_o hear_n of_o john_n baptist_n preach_v be_v convict_v of_o their_o sin_n and_o do_v confess_v their_o sin_n in_o the_o general_n and_o forthwith_o be_v baptize_v by_o he_o and_o act._n 2._o 37._o 41._o three_o thousand_o soul_n at_o the_o hear_n of_o one_o sermon_n of_o peter_n be_v convince_v of_o their_o sin_n prick_v at_o the_o heart_n repent_v and_o flee_v to_o christ_n for_o grace_n be_v convert_v baptize_v and_o enter_v member_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n all_o in_o one_o day_n again_o the_o afflict_a may_v be_v pose_v with_o another_o question_n see_v he_o desiderat_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o sound_a hearty_a sorrow_n in_o himself_o before_o he_o can_v make_v his_o address_n unto_o christ_n out_o of_o what_o fountain_n mind_v he_o to_o draw_v this_o sorrow_n of_o himself_o he_o have_v it_o not_o and_o from_o christ_n by_o his_o ground_n he_o can_v seek_v it_o for_o he_o say_v for_o want_v of_o his_o imagine_a measure_n of_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n he_o dare_v not_o approach_v unto_o christ_n because_o as_o he_o allege_v none_o be_v call_v to_o come_v unto_o christ_n except_o such_o only_a as_o be_v in_o a_o superlative_a degree_n weary_a and_o load_a and_o so_o full_a of_o the_o spirit_n of_o heaviness_n that_o he_o must_v be_v at_o the_o point_n of_o desperation_n near_o by_o but_o the_o scripture_n do_v teach_v we_o that_o christ_n be_v that_o exalt_a prince_n to_o give_v repentance_n unto_o israel_n in_o what_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n he_o please_v and_o that_o therefore_o such_o as_o be_v convince_v of_o and_o in_o any_o measure_n sorrowful_a for_o offend_v god_n shall_v run_v unto_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v give_v they_o a_o better_a measure_n of_o repentance_n three_o the_o evil_n and_o danger_n which_o accompany_v and_o follow_v upon_o this_o practical_a error_n may_v be_v represent_v unto_o the_o afflict_a for_o first_o by_o this_o his_o error_n he_o give_v way_n to_o satan_n tentation_n who_o when_o he_o perceive_v the_o
faith_n when_o the_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v from_o we_o and_o we_o be_v put_v to_o hard_a exercise_n wherein_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o glorify_v our_o god_n for_o his_o truth_n and_o grace_n whereof_o we_o have_v sometime_o have_v confirmation_n by_o feel_a consolation_n and_o patient_o to_o wait_v till_o he_o restore_v unto_o we_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o if_o in_o the_o want_n of_o sensible_a consolation_n we_o shall_v put_v aspersion_n upon_o the_o lord_n work_v and_o grace_n bestow_v upon_o we_o and_o call_v they_o in_o question_n we_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o so_o do_v more_o careful_a of_o self-satisfaction_n then_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o we_o four_o let_v the_o afflict_a learn_v so_o to_o describe_v and_o define_v every_o save_a grace_n of_o faith_n repentance_n hope_v love_n and_o mortification_n of_o sin_n as_o the_o description_n may_v take_v in_o the_o mean_a measure_n of_o those_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o sound_a faith_n where_o there_o be_v not_o a_o full_a persuasion_n for_o the_o hungry_a look_v of_o a_o tremble_a sinner_n unto_o christ_n must_v not_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o restrain_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n to_o the_o shed_v of_o tear_n for_o many_o other_o sign_n of_o repentance_n may_v be_v find_v where_o these_o be_v seldom_o such_o as_o be_v the_o hatred_n of_o sin_n strive_v against_o all_o tentation_n unto_o it_o and_o fly_v from_o all_o occasion_n which_o may_v ensnare_v the_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o trespass_n five_o let_v the_o afflict_a distinguish_v between_o faith_n and_o sense_n of_o joy_n both_o be_v god_n gift_n but_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n whereupon_o we_o be_v command_v to_o rest_v ourselves_o shall_v be_v rest_v on_o constant_o whatsoever_o dispensation_n of_o joy_n or_o grief_n we_o shall_v meet_v with_o and_o this_o be_v our_o perpetual_a duty_n but_o sense_n be_v at_o god_n free_a dispensation_n to_o give_v and_o withdraw_v and_o restore_v at_o his_o pleasure_n and_o be_v a_o movable_a benefit_n which_o the_o lord_n as_o his_o wisdom_n see_v expedient_a for_o our_o good_a do_v give_v and_o continue_v withdraw_v and_o restore_v diminish_v or_o augment_v and_o therefore_o the_o afflict_a be_v bind_v by_o duty_n still_o to_o believe_v and_o rejoice_v in_o believe_v and_o to_o have_v the_o joy_n of_o sense_n also_o he_o may_v lawful_o study_v but_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v weaken_v by_o the_o want_n of_o it_o as_o the_o prophet_n do_v teach_v we_o ps._n 42._o 11._o and_o 43._o 5._o and_o 88_o last_o of_o all_o let_v the_o afflict_a be_v pose_v upon_o his_o conscience_n if_o he_o dare_v condemn_v his_o fly_n to_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n as_o no_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o if_o he_o there_fw-mi deny_v his_o hunger_n after_o renew_a consolation_n and_o behold_v of_o god_n with_o joy_n as_o reconcile_v in_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n and_o of_o communion_n with_o he_o therefore_o let_v he_o confess_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o 10._o this_o my_o doubt_v be_v my_o infirmity_n i_o will_v remember_v the_o year_n of_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o lord_n chap._n xvi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o not_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v for_o his_o growth_n some_o true_a convert_n be_v bring_v to_o suspect_v their_o own_o regeneration_n because_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n lead_v to_o sanctification_n and_o salvation_n sundry_a complain_n and_o say_v i_o do_v not_o perceive_v the_o lord_n blessing_n on_o my_o pain_n and_o diligence_n i_o grow_v not_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a my_o faith_n do_v not_o grow_v by_o hear_v nor_o read_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n nor_o by_o meditation_n of_o it_o i_o do_v not_o prevail_v in_o wrestle_v against_o my_o inbred_a sin_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n neither_o by_o prayer_n nor_o fast_v and_o therefore_o what_o shall_v i_o judge_v of_o my_o state_n but_o that_o it_o be_v like_a i_o be_o not_o convert_v and_o renew_v for_o if_o i_o be_v indeed_o convert_v and_o reconcile_v with_o god_n i_o conceive_v it_o shall_v fair_o otherways_o with_o i_o than_o it_o do_v 2._o in_o this_o case_n the_o true_a convert_n be_v in_o hazard_n of_o grow_v slack_a and_o careless_a in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o to_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o and_o limit_v of_o he_o unto_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o profit_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o make_v he_o know_v how_o far_o he_o have_v profit_v and_o advance_v in_o the_o course_n of_o sanctification_n yea_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o in_o this_o case_n the_o convert_v not_o only_o become_v cold-rife_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o piety_n but_o also_o turn_v loose_a in_o his_o conversation_n and_o follow_v the_o allurement_n of_o the_o world_n have_v so_o far_o hearken_v to_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o think_v it_o in_o vain_a that_o he_o have_v washen_v his_o hand_n in_o innocency_n as_o ps._n 73._o befall_v the_o prophet_n 3._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o doubt_n the_o afflict_a have_v reason_n to_o check_v himself_o for_o harken_v so_o far_o unto_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o join_v with_o hypocrite_n in_o his_o complaint_n isa._n 58._o 5._o wherefore_o have_v we_o fast_v say_v they_o and_o thou_o â—â—st_n not_o wherefore_o have_v we_o afflict_v our_o soul_n and_o thou_o like_v no_o knowledge_n but_o because_o nothing_o do_v more_o trouble_v the_o afflict_a then_o his_o suspicion_n of_o his_o own_o hypocrisy_n let_v the_o cause_n be_v search_v from_o which_o his_o suspicion_n do_v arise_v one_o of_o they_o may_v be_v this_o that_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n the_o eye_n of_o the_o afflict_a be_v more_o and_o more_o open_v to_o perceive_v the_o power_n and_o poison_n of_o his_o natural_a corruption_n more_o clear_o than_o he_o perceive_v before_o and_o this_o decipher_n of_o sin_n more_o and_o more_o do_v hinder_v he_o to_o see_v the_o growth_n of_o his_o light_n and_o the_o growth_n of_o his_o hatred_n against_o manifest_a sin_n join_v with_o the_o overturning_a of_o his_o own_o high_a imagination_n and_o native_a pride_n another_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o true_a convert_n have_v promise_v unto_o himself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n more_o and_o great_a benefit_n spiritual_a from_o god_n than_o he_o do_v by_o experience_n find_v which_o because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v he_o think_v he_o have_v not_o profit_v a_o three_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v about_o the_o purge_n of_o he_o from_o practical_a error_n such_o as_o be_v the_o high_a estimation_n of_o his_o own_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n as_o if_o there_o be_v some_o sort_n of_o merit_n annex_v unto_o the_o work_v prescribe_v to_o the_o convert_n by_o the_o lord_n or_o as_o if_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n have_v in_o they_o some_o force_n and_o efficacy_n in_o produce_v such_o effect_n in_o he_o as_o the_o convert_n have_v expect_v or_o as_o if_o the_o lord_n have_v oblige_v himself_o to_o bless_v sensible_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n to_o the_o diligent_a man_n satisfaction_n 4._o therefore_o first_o let_v the_o afflict_a continue_v in_o his_o diligence_n and_o bewar_n of_o the_o foresay_a practical_a error_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v draw_v more_o virtue_n out_o of_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o by_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o â—indeth_v sin_n himself_o and_o not_o profiâ—ing_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o lay_v the_o fast_o hold_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o on_o christ_n offer_v therein_o for_o give_v righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n second_o let_v he_o set_v upon_o the_o exercise_n of_o every_o duty_n with_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v follow_v the_o duty_n in_o christ_n name_n with_o his_o eye_n fix_v on_o god_n grace_n and_o after_o the_o discharge_n of_o the_o duty_n let_v he_o look_v to_o christ_n that_o from_o he_o he_o may_v have_v the_o blessing_n for_o without_o christ_n we_o can_v do_v nothing_o acceptable_o nor_o with_o profit_n last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o not_o esteem_v light_o of_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o diligence_n as_o if_o he_o do_v no_o way_n profit_n but_o when_o he_o have_v right_o consider_v matter_n if_o he_o find_v the_o least_o fruit_n follow_v his_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o give_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o giver_n thereof_o and_o humble_o put_v up_o
some_o true_a convert_n be_v find_v who_o have_v for_o a_o time_n enjoy_v pâ—eace_n of_o conscience_n have_v call_v their_o conversion_n in_o question_n by_o occasion_n of_o hear_v or_o read_v some_o sermon_n of_o some_o zealous_a preacher_n press_v the_o mark_n of_o true_a and_o sincere_a conversion_n and_o make_v self-denial_n and_o love_v of_o god_n for_o himself_o the_o main_a mark_n of_o conversion_n and_o without_o circumspect_a and_o wise_a difference_n put_v by_o he_o betwixt_o legal_a perfection_n and_o evangelical_a sincerity_n press_v self-denial_n and_o the_o love_a of_o god_n abstract_o further_a than_o any_o saint_n do_v attain_v unto_o in_o this_o life_n whereupon_o some_o tender_a soul_n do_v fall_n in_o question_n with_o themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v among_o the_o true_a and_o sincere_a convert_n because_o they_o know_v that_o our_o lord_n require_v self-denial_n in_o every_o person_n who_o will_v follow_v he_o and_o do_v condemn_v they_o all_o for_o unbeliever_n who_o seek_v glory_n of_o man_n and_o not_o the_o glory_n which_o be_v of_o god_n and_o because_o the_o preacher_n possible_o have_v make_v the_o love_a of_o god_n for_o his_o benefit_n to_o be_v too_o too_o mercenary_a and_o have_v press_v without_o respect_n to_o benefit_n that_o god_n must_v be_v love_v for_o himself_o therefore_o the_o weak_a convert_n begin_v to_o be_v trouble_v as_o if_o he_o be_v not_o a_o true_a convert_n at_o all_o say_v what_o shall_v i_o think_v of_o myself_o and_o of_o my_o follow_v of_o christ_n see_v i_o feel_v so_o little_a of_o self-denial_n in_o i_o see_v i_o have_v love_v christ_n for_o my_o own_o good_a and_o many_o a_o time_n in_o my_o best_a action_n i_o have_v seek_v the_o commendation_n of_o man_n in_o my_o heart_n and_o i_o have_v be_v ill_o please_v when_o i_o do_v not_o obtain_v it_o 2._o for_o solve_v of_o this_o doubt_n we_o grant_v that_o every_o man_n who_o will_v follow_v christ_n be_v bind_v to_o deny_v himself_o and_o true_a it_o be_v there_o be_v nothing_o more_o difficile_a then_o to_o forsake_v our_o own_o carnal_a wisdom_n and_o estimation_n of_o our_o own_o worth_n work_n and_o ability_n how_o small_a â—oever_o neither_o be_v there_o any_o more_o dangerous_a evil_n then_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o christian_a duty_n to_o seek_v or_o accept_v our_o own_o glory_n and_o the_o applause_n of_o man_n for_o he_o that_o in_o this_o point_n do_v foster_v his_o natural_a corruption_n certain_o do_v not_o in_o so_o far_o favour_v these_o thing_n which_o be_v god_n but_o serve_v his_o own_o flesh_n therefore_o because_o the_o relic_n of_o this_o and_o all_o other_o sin_n do_v remain_v in_o the_o regenerate_a the_o lord_n by_o variety_n of_o exercise_n set_v his_o child_n daily_o to_o learn_v this_o lesson_n over_o and_o over_o for_o mortify_v their_o corrupt_a lust_n it_o be_v their_o duty_n therefore_o when_o any_o spark_n of_o this_o evil_n of_o self-seeking_a do_v appear_v to_o cast_v themselves_o down_o humble_o at_o christ_n foot_n and_o confess_v the_o sin_n lest_o some_o spark_n of_o wrath_n break_v forth_o upon_o they_o from_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o end_n of_o this_o exercise_n yea_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o remove_v full_o indwelling_a sin_n be_v to_o humble_v we_o and_o send_v we_o to_o christ_n lest_o if_o he_o shall_v otherways_o deal_v with_o we_o we_o shall_v grow_v proud_a and_o not_o make_v such_o use_n as_o become_v we_o of_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o the_o believer_n mean_v time_n we_o must_v not_o yield_v to_o satan_n tentation_n colour_v with_o pretence_n of_o scripture_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v discharge_v we_o to_o seek_v any_o good_a from_o he_o to_o ourselves_o or_o to_o love_v he_o for_o the_o good_a which_o he_o have_v purchase_v to_o we_o and_o which_o he_o from_o time_n to_o time_n bestow_v on_o we_o for_o when_o christ_n require_v of_o we_o to_o deny_v ourselves_o he_o require_v indeed_o the_o renounciation_n of_o our_o own_o carnal_a and_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o wisdom_n worth_a and_o work_n but_o he_o do_v not_o require_v of_o we_o to_o renounce_v the_o sanctify_a love_n of_o our_o own_o well-being_n or_o the_o seek_v our_o sanctification_n consolation_n and_o salvation_n in_o he_o alone_o for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o glory_n be_v the_o main_a end_n of_o all_o our_o desire_n and_o the_o seek_v that_o god_n will_v glorify_v his_o own_o grace_n and_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n to_o we_o by_o sanctify_v comfort_v and_o save_v we_o be_v a_o subordinat_a mean_n unto_o god_n glory_n yea_o the_o more_o we_o seek_v our_o righteousness_n consolation_n and_o salvation_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n the_o more_o we_o glorify_v god_n and_o do_v say_v in_o substance_n of_o god_n that_o he_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o felicity_n and_o that_o he_o be_v good_a and_o faithful_a to_o grant_v all_o good_a thing_n to_o such_o as_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o do_v seek_v grace_n for_o grace_n from_o he_o 3._o it_o be_v true_a that_o we_o shall_v love_v god_n above_o all_o thing_n and_o love_v he_o more_o than_o ourselves_o and_o love_v he_o though_o he_o shall_v slay_v we_o but_o it_o be_v true_a also_o that_o the_o more_o we_o love_v he_o for_o any_o cause_n the_o more_o we_o esteem_v of_o he_o the_o more_o we_o magnify_v and_o glorify_v he_o and_o what_o be_v love_n to_o and_o seek_v of_o god_n but_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o our_o own_o emptiness_n and_o his_o all-sufficiency_n and_o what_o be_v our_o seek_a communion_n with_o he_o but_o a_o refound_a of_o ourselves_o into_o the_o fountain_n whence_o we_o have_v our_o be_v that_o he_o may_v be_v glorify_v in_o our_o be_v and_o full_o well-being_n and_o so_o our_o spiritual_a love_n of_o god_n for_o himself_o and_o for_o the_o goodness_n which_o be_v let_v forth_o in_o do_v good_a to_o we_o be_v not_o mercenary_a love_n but_o be_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o perfection_n and_o of_o his_o grace_n to_o we_o to_o who_o he_o will_v be_v our_o god_n in_o christ_n even_o all_o in_o all_o to_o we_o in_o he_o as_o for_o seek_v of_o man_n applause_n whensoever_o whether_o upon_o receive_v of_o any_o benefit_n or_o discharge_v of_o any_o duty_n the_o corrupt_a lust_n of_o vain_a glory_n do_v mix_v itself_o which_o can_v but_o obscure_v and_o hinder_v the_o shine_a of_o his_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v aim_v at_o in_o all_o thing_n by_o we_o incontinent_a upon_o the_o first_o motion_n of_o this_o our_o sinful_a corruption_n perceive_v let_v out_o sin_n be_v humble_o acknowledge_v and_o confess_v unto_o god_n the_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o let_v supplication_n in_o our_o spirit_n be_v make_v unto_o he_o to_o pardon_v our_o sin_n and_o mortify_v the_o bitter_a root_n of_o this_o and_o all_o other_o evil_n in_o we_o chap._n xix_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v indeed_o convert_v arise_v from_o this_o that_o he_o know_v no_o child_n of_o god_n so_o hardly_o exercise_v as_o he_o be_v some_o convert_n be_v who_o by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v bring_v to_o seek_v their_o relief_n in_o christ_n and_o have_v take_v on_o his_o yoke_n and_o submit_v themselves_o to_o his_o discipline_n and_o yet_o fall_v in_o question_n whether_o they_o be_v convert_v because_o they_o do_v find_v such_o inequality_n in_o their_o conversation_n and_o such_o change_n in_o their_o condition_n and_o variety_n of_o tentation_n as_o they_o can_v find_v no_o example_n of_o the_o like_a in_o scripture_n and_o where_o it_o please_v they_o to_o be_v free_a with_o their_o pastor_n or_o confident_a christian_a friend_n do_v fall_v out_o in_o question_n if_o ever_o they_o have_v read_v in_o scripture_n any_o like_a unto_o they_o in_o such_o and_o such_o particular_n as_o they_o please_v to_o condescend_v upon_o and_o if_o their_o pastor_n or_o christian_a friend_n shall_v give_v they_o some_o example_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o god_n child_n so_o exercise_v they_o be_v ready_a to_o find_v such_o difference_n between_o the_o case_n of_o the_o godly_a in_o scripture_n and_o their_o case_n as_o they_o can_v receive_v satisfaction_n and_o if_o possible_o it_o be_v tell_v they_o that_o their_o caâ—e_n be_v not_o singular_a but_o such_o as_o have_v befall_v sundry_a of_o their_o christian_a acquaintance_n in_o this_o present_a age_n yet_o they_o can_v receive_v satisfaction_n for_o all_o this_o but_o still_o do_v insist_v that_o their_o case_n be_v not_o like_a to_o any_o of_o the_o godly_a whereupon_o they_o foster_v the_o suspicion_n of_o their_o not_o
unfruitful_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o acknowledge_v of_o christ_n yet_o be_v frequent_o call_v in_o question_n about_o their_o state_n in_o grace_n for_o when_o their_o conscience_n be_v quiet_a they_o fall_v in_o suspicion_n that_o their_o faith_n be_v but_o presumption_n and_o when_o through_o tentation_n in_o adversity_n they_o be_v put_v to_o wrestle_v their_o suspicion_n be_v that_o then_o feel_v weakness_n of_o faith_n in_o wrestle_v be_v but_o misbelief_n and_o when_o the_o frequent_a perturbation_n of_o their_o mind_n do_v make_v they_o indispose_v for_o any_o exercise_n of_o religion_n a_o suspicion_n be_v raise_v that_o the_o faith_n which_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v but_o dead_a because_o when_o there_o be_v most_o need_n of_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n they_o be_v altogether_o unfit_a and_o unable_a to_o bring_v forth_o any_o fruit_n what_o shall_v i_o think_v of_o my_o estate_n faith_n the_o afflict_a who_o when_o a_o enemy_n do_v not_o appear_v be_o secure_v and_o when_o i_o must_v enter_v the_o combat_n with_o the_o adversary_n i_o faint_v and_o ofttimes_o when_o i_o be_o call_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n i_o be_o confound_v i_o be_o stupid_a and_o impotent_a to_o discharge_v any_o duty_n therein_o 2._o that_o this_o doubt_n may_v be_v solve_v the_o three_o cause_n of_o his_o doubt_n must_v be_v remove_v as_o to_o the_o first_o which_o be_v the_o suspicion_n that_o his_o faith_n be_v presumption_n we_o do_v not_o deny_v that_o carnal_a confidence_n in_o prosperity_n use_v to_o assume_v to_o itself_o the_o name_n of_o true_a faith_n and_o that_o even_o true_a convert_n do_v sometime_o deceive_v themselves_o concern_v the_o measure_n of_o their_o faith_n both_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n and_o on_o the_o left_a by_o judge_a faith_n not_o question_v to_o be_v strong_a faith_n and_o â—aith_n in_o wrestle_v to_o be_v weak_a or_o none_o at_o all_o we_o grant_v also_o that_o some_o mixture_n of_o presumption_n will_v be_v find_v join_v with_o true_a faith_n and_o of_o misbelief_n also_o which_o evil_n do_v lurk_v and_o hide_v their_o power_n till_o the_o man_n be_v put_v to_o some_o trial_n wherefore_o the_o afflict_a have_v need_n of_o discretion_n that_o he_o may_v have_v a_o right_a esteem_n both_o of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o native_a corruption_n in_o himself_o for_o faith_n must_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o the_o imperfection_n of_o it_o or_o for_o the_o mixture_n of_o presumption_n and_o misbelief_n with_o it_o and_o to_o help_v his_o judgement_n let_v he_o observe_v the_o nature_n of_o prevalent_a presumption_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o true_a faith_n which_o differ_v one_o from_o another_o in_o these_o four_o respect_n first_o presumption_n be_v found_v upon_o a_o false_a imagination_n without_o any_o warrant_n of_o god_n word_n but_o faith_n take_v heed_n to_o the_o scripture_n that_o from_o the_o word_n it_o may_v give_v a_o reason_n of_o believe_v 2._o presumption_n be_v negligent_a and_o idle_a in_o the_o discharge_n of_o duty_n but_o faith_n take_v head_n to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o be_v diligent_a and_o serious_a in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n 3._o the_o presumptuous_a man_n do_v not_o make_v question_n of_o his_o estate_n but_o bless_v himself_o when_o his_o way_n be_v to_o be_v hate_v for_o he_o do_v not_o examine_v himself_o that_o he_o may_v know_v certain_o in_o what_o condition_n he_o be_v but_o he_o that_o put_v his_o faith_n in_o exercise_n do_v careful_o examine_v his_o carriage_n and_o condition_n lest_o he_o deceive_v himself_o 4._o the_o presumptuous_a man_n in_o all_o his_o way_n and_o action_n be_v well_o please_v with_o himself_o but_o the_o believer_n because_o of_o the_o sinfulness_n he_o find_v in_o all_o his_o action_n be_v ill_o please_v with_o himself_o in_o his_o best_a action_n many_o time_n and_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o work_n that_o he_o may_v whole_o depend_v on_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n 3._o let_v the_o afflict_a therefore_o who_o so_o do_v look_v to_o the_o gospel_n as_o he_o also_o make_v use_n of_o the_o law_n both_o in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n make_v conscience_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o duty_n of_o his_o call_n in_o some_o measure_n and_o be_v never_o so_o well_o please_v with_o himself_o but_o he_o observe_v the_o power_n of_o corruption_n in_o himself_o let_v he_o i_o say_v not_o reckon_v himself_o among_o the_o presumptuous_a let_v he_o not_o esteem_v his_o quietness_n in_o believe_v to_o be_v presumption_n 4._o as_o for_o his_o suspicion_n that_o his_o say_v be_v null_a because_o it_o prove_v weak_a in_o conflict_n let_v the_o afflict_a beware_v lest_o he_o help_v and_o strengthen_v satan_n tentation_n against_o his_o faith_n albeit_o he_o find_v his_o faith_n weak_a in_o trial_n and_o assault_n and_o not_o answerable_a either_o to_o his_o own_o hope_n or_o other_o expectation_n of_o he_o yet_o let_v he_o not_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n nor_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n but_o let_v he_o follow_v christ_n humble_v himself_o before_o god_n because_o of_o his_o defect_n and_o go_v about_o to_o strengthen_v that_o which_o be_v remain_v 2._o albeit_o in_o some_o fit_n of_o tentation_n he_o slide_v as_o peter_n do_v and_o find_v that_o he_o have_v presume_v too_o much_o of_o his_o own_o strength_n and_o honest_a purpose_n as_o peter_n also_o do_v yet_o let_v he_o not_o think_v that_o his_o faith_n be_v null_a but_o let_v he_o weep_v with_o peter_n and_o turn_v again_o by_o repentance_n and_o watch_v better_o over_o his_o own_o heart_n for_o time_n to_o come_v 5._o as_o for_o the_o suspicion_n he_o have_v that_o his_o faith_n be_v dead_a or_o idle_a because_o when_o fruit_n be_v chief_o call_v for_o he_o find_v himself_o uterr_o indispose_v unfit_a and_o unable_a to_o discharge_v any_o work_n of_o religion_n as_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o the_o time_n of_o passion_n perturbation_n of_o mind_n and_o pollution_n of_o the_o conscience_n for_o clear_v whereof_o we_o do_v acknowledge_v that_o wrath_n and_o contention_n do_v hinder_v prayer_n and_o other_o exercise_n of_o religion_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v insinuat_fw-la 1_o pet._n 3._o 7._o where_o he_o command_v husband_n to_o carry_v themselves_o discreet_o towards_o their_o wife_n lest_o their_o prayer_n in_o the_o family_n or_o in_o secret_a be_v hinder_v and_o 1_o tim._n 2._o 8._o the_o apostle_n command_v man_n to_o pray_v every_o where_o lift_v up_o pure_a hand_n without_o wrath_n or_o doubt_v we_o acknowledge_v also_o that_o not_o only_a wrath_n or_o any_o other_o passion_n or_o action_n which_o defile_v the_o conscience_n be_v able_a to_o hinder_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o discharge_v of_o christian_n duty_n at_o a_o time_n but_o also_o it_o be_v find_v by_o experience_n that_o any_o perturbation_n of_o mind_n albeit_o it_o do_v not_o defile_v or_o concern_v the_o conscience_n may_v in_o some_o part_n hinder_v the_o discharge_n of_o a_o religious_a exercise_n as_o may_v be_v see_v when_o any_o person_n be_v surprise_v with_o the_o report_n of_o some_o notable_a damnage_n or_o be_v possible_o wound_v by_o some_o accident_n or_o terrify_v by_o the_o sight_n of_o imminent_a danger_n yet_o for_o all_o this_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n can_v prove_v faith_n to_o be_v dead_a but_o do_v show_v the_o infirmity_n of_o a_o man_n mind_n the_o use_n of_o who_o reason_n may_v be_v hinder_v for_o a_o time_n by_o perturbation_n and_o sudden_a passion_n and_o at_o the_o most_o the_o presuppose_a case_n may_v prove_v the_o weakness_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o interruption_n of_o it_o in_o the_o put_n forth_o itself_o vigorous_o for_o the_o time_n but_o can_v prove_v the_o deadness_n or_o nullity_n of_o faith_n whih_o after_o such_o passion_n be_v past_a do_v set_v forward_o to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o better_a measure_n wherefore_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a halt_n in_o his_o way_n for_o such_o tentation_n but_o let_v he_o make_v straight_o step_v to_o himself_o lest_o that_o which_o be_v halt_v be_v turn_v out_o of_o the_o way_n let_v he_o reject_v these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o tentation_n tend_v to_o weaken_v his_o confidence_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o inherent_a corruption_n and_o wash_v frequent_o his_o conscience_n at_o the_o fountain_n which_o be_v open_v up_o in_o the_o house_n of_o david_n for_o purge_v away_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n let_v he_o carry_v himself_o the_o more_o circumspect_o in_o all_o thing_n because_o of_o his_o frequent_a experience_n of_o satan_n malice_n of_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o his_o own_o infirmity_n chap._n xxiii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o a_o true_a convert_v regeneration_n arise_v from_o some_o false_a rule_n apply_v without_o reason_n to_o
whether_o every_o sincere_a convert_n shall_v remain_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n if_o possible_o they_o have_v so_o far_o abuse_v grace_n as_o to_o defile_v themselves_o again_o with_o the_o pollution_n which_o they_o seem_v to_o repent_v of_o before_o and_o this_o erroneous_a opinion_n of_o the_o instability_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n they_o do_v apply_v to_o themselves_o for_o when_o they_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n the_o power_n of_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v not_o only_a rage_a but_o in_o appearance_n reign_v in_o they_o as_o the_o conscience_n of_o their_o relapse_v in_o their_o old_a sin_n bear_v witness_v and_o when_o they_o know_v their_o nature_n so_o corrupt_a and_o ready_a to_o sin_v yet_o more_o they_o doubt_v if_o this_o condition_n can_v stand_v with_o be_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o have_v find_v of_o their_o be_v in_o this_o covenant_n they_o now_o fear_v that_o they_o be_v fall_v from_o grace_n because_o they_o have_v as_o they_o conceive_v break_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n on_o their_o part_n therefore_o they_o apprehend_v also_o that_o god_n in_o justice_n be_v provoke_v ofttimes_o by_o they_o have_v now_o at_o last_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n on_o his_o part_n for_o say_v they_o it_o be_v no_o reason_n that_o god_n shall_v be_v tie_v unto_o they_o in_o covenant_n who_o so_o many_o way_n have_v violate_v that_o covenant_n but_o as_o adam_n by_o sin_v exclude_v himself_o from_o all_o benefit_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n so_o be_v it_o reason_n that_o every_o one_o who_o have_v violate_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o i_o have_v do_v shall_v be_v exclude_v from_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o here_o the_o afflict_a do_v stand_v as_o a_o miserable_a man_n uncertain_a what_o to_o do_v in_o which_o condition_n horrible_a temptation_n and_o heavy_a suspicion_n of_o their_o state_n do_v arise_v namely_o that_o they_o be_v in_o the_o condition_n and_o case_n wherein_o esau_n be_v who_o when_o he_o have_v sell_v his_o birthright_n for_o a_o mess_n of_o pottage_n find_v no_o place_n for_o repentance_n albeit_o he_o seek_v the_o blessing_n with_o tear_n now_o what_o torment_n may_v be_v in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o afflict_a in_o this_o case_n it_o be_v easy_a for_o they_o who_o at_o any_o time_n have_v feel_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n to_o conjecture_v and_o this_o doubt_n do_v vex_v the_o man_n most_o who_o be_v conscious_a of_o his_o often_o abuse_v of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n for_o what_o shall_v i_o do_v say_v he_o shall_v i_o defile_v myself_o and_o go_v and_o wash_v and_o again_o defile_v myself_o and_o go_v and_o wash_v and_o by_o this_o mean_n augment_v my_o own_o guiltiness_n from_o day_n to_o day_n what_o be_v if_o this_o be_v not_o to_o abuse_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n 2._o that_o this_o evil_n may_v be_v remove_v we_o must_v confess_v that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o after_o some_o remorse_n for_o some_o sin_n raise_v by_o a_o natural_a and_o unrenewed_a conscience_n do_v weep_v now_o and_o then_o as_o saul_n do_v for_o his_o injust_a persecution_n of_o david_n and_o do_v think_v that_o by_o their_o tear_n they_o have_v washen_v away_o their_o sin_n and_o attain_v to_o some_o sort_n of_o quietness_n in_o their_o conscience_n for_o a_o time_n who_o yet_o do_v not_o cease_v from_o their_o wickedness_n but_o remain_v in_o their_o natural_a state_n stranger_n from_o god_n and_o christ._n we_o must_v also_o acknowledge_v that_o some_o of_o the_o regenerate_a in_o their_o carnal_a security_n fall_v back_o in_o their_o old_a sin_n ordinary_o be_v sharp_o chastise_v by_o god_n and_o indeed_o no_o wonder_n be_v that_o such_o as_o have_v once_o attain_v to_o peace_n with_o god_n do_v meet_v with_o break_a bone_n after_o they_o have_v abuse_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o give_v way_n to_o their_o sinful_a lust_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o david_n ps._n 51._o 3._o as_o for_o those_o who_o fall_v in_o open_a gross_a scandalous_a sin_n which_o defile_v the_o whole_a man_n soul_n and_o body_n both_o it_o be_v safe_a for_o they_o whether_o they_o be_v before_o that_o time_n convert_v or_o not_o to_o let_v alone_o long_a disputation_n whether_o they_o be_v regenerate_v or_o not_o before_o their_o fearful_a fall_n and_o to_o stir_v up_o themselves_o to_o a_o deep_a search_n of_o the_o wickedness_n of_o their_o nature_n that_o they_o may_v be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o inborn_a sin_n and_o gross_a actual_a out-breaking_n fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o they_o have_v do_v 4._o as_o for_o these_o who_o have_v not_o fall_v in_o grievous_a open_a transgression_n but_o in_o their_o wrestle_n against_o sin_n not_o obtain_v the_o victory_n they_o will_v or_o hope_v to_o have_v do_v find_v themselves_o pollute_v in_o their_o spirit_n and_o put_v to_o the_o worse_a in_o their_o conflict_n against_o their_o sinful_a lust_n and_o passion_n and_o that_o very_o frequent_o and_o thereupon_o they_o apprehend_v that_o either_o they_o be_v never_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o if_o they_o be_v in_o it_o that_o they_o have_v abuse_v and_o break_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o these_o we_o answer_v that_o every_o transgression_n of_o the_o command_n albeit_o it_o be_v a_o violation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n yet_o be_v not_o a_o dissolution_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o fail_v in_o a_o duty_n which_o the_o covenant_v party_n shall_v have_v do_v another_o thing_n to_o break_v or_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v provide_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o a_o special_a article_n that_o god_n will_v forgive_v the_o sin_n of_o his_o confederate_a people_n when_o they_o confess_v their_o fault_n and_o sue_v for_o pardon_n according_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o mercy_n to_o the_o covenant_v jer._n 31_o 32_o and_o lest_o any_o humble_a sinner_n shall_v be_v discourage_v and_o not_o receive_v this_o solution_n of_o his_o doubt_n let_v he_o consider_v the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 6._o 1._o express_o set_v down_o for_o their_o comfort_n who_o have_v resolve_v to_o live_v holy_o just_o and_o temperate_o be_v overtake_v in_o a_o offence_n and_o be_v not_o purpose_v to_o abuse_v mercy_n or_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o lasciviousness_n and_o 1_o job._n 2._o 1._o these_o thing_n i_o write_v unto_o you_o to_o wit_n believer_n in_o christ_n careful_a to_o live_v holy_o that_o you_o sin_v not_o but_o if_o any_o man_n sin_n we_o have_v a_o advocate_n with_o the_o father_n jesus_n christ_n the_o just_a one_o and_o this_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n for_o grant_v daily_a remission_n according_a to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o saint_n make_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n perpetual_a and_o to_o be_v daily_o make_v use_n of_o as_o we_o be_v direct_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n and_o in_o this_o do_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n differ_v from_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n which_o by_o any_o one_o sin_n be_v so_o violat_a as_o the_o curse_n do_v follow_v till_o the_o sinner_n run_v in_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o by_o this_o doctrine_n a_o door_n be_v not_o open_v unto_o sin_v but_o the_o door_n only_o be_v close_v to_o keep_v in_o the_o true_a convert_n from_o desperation_n and_o run_v away_o from_o christ_n and_o to_o help_v he_o out_o of_o the_o mire_n of_o discouragement_n wherein_o he_o be_v fall_v lest_o he_o sink_v in_o it_o and_o despair_n neither_o be_v the_o study_n of_o holiness_n hinder_v by_o this_o way_n or_o the_o diligence_n of_o the_o convert_v slaken_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o please_v of_o god_n but_o only_o servile_a fear_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o serve_v god_n be_v take_v away_o and_o the_o obligation_n of_o love_n to_o god_n who_o be_v find_v to_o be_v so_o merciful_a be_v more_o strict_o tie_v upon_o we_o which_o love_n as_o it_o be_v augment_v daily_o by_o new_a confirmation_n of_o faith_n and_o fresh_a experience_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o we_o do_v cast_v out_o servile_a fear_n as_o the_o apostle_n teach_v 1_o joh._n 4._o 18._o as_o for_o the_o afflict_a convert_n his_o fear_n that_o he_o be_v like_o saul_n who_o though_o he_o feel_v remorse_n and_o shame_n when_o all_o the_o beholder_n in_o his_o army_n see_v he_o so_o confound_v by_o david_n loyal_a carriage_n towards_o he_o yet_o do_v he_o not_o repent_v this_o sin_n at_o all_o nor_o amend_v his_o life_n at_o all_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o suspect_v himself_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o or_o to_o esau_n who_o be_v solicitous_a only_o for_o a_o earthly_a blessing_n
grace_n as_o a_o true_a penitent_a and_o let_v the_o fear_n of_o wrath_n in_o case_n he_o set_v not_o himself_o to_o recover_v what_o he_o have_v lose_v hold_v he_o up_o to_o his_o duty_n for_o this_o be_v the_o remedy_n which_o christ_n himself_o do_v prescribe_v rev._n 2._o 5._o 7._o chap._n iii_o concern_v the_o convert_n sinful_a connive_n at_o and_o tolerate_v of_o the_o error_n and_o transgression_n of_o other_o the_o law_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n lay_v a_o tie_n on_o we_o to_o procure_v and_o promove_v the_o welfare_n and_o good_a of_o all_o man_n according_a to_o our_o place_n and_o power_n and_o to_o hinder_v the_o provocation_n of_o god_n and_o sin_n of_o our_o neighbour_n according_a to_o our_o place_n and_o power_n and_o to_o this_o end_n the_o lord_n have_v say_v levit._n 19_o 17._o thou_o shall_v not_o hate_v thy_o brother_n in_o thy_o heart_n thou_o shall_v in_o any_o wise_a rebuke_n thy_o neighbour_n and_o not_o suffer_v sin_n upon_o he_o â—ains_n answer_v to_o god_n say_v be_o i_o my_o brother_n keeper_n do_v not_o beseem_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o some_o of_o the_o lord_n renew_v child_n in_o some_o case_n do_v seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o have_v do_v their_o duty_n sufficient_o if_o they_o for_o themselves_o profess_v the_o truth_n and_o do_v in_o their_o own_o personal_a carriage_n what_o they_o conceive_v to_o be_v right_a albeit_o they_o toleart_n other_o to_o profess_v teach_v and_o practice_v what_o be_v false_a and_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o this_o fault_n may_v befall_v not_o only_a magistrate_n and_o pastor_n parent_n and_o master_n of_o family_n child_n and_o servant_n but_o also_o be_v find_v in_o all_o and_o every_o one_o who_o do_v defend_v or_o excuse_v such_o a_o ungodly_a and_o dangerous_a toleration_n which_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o wrath_n and_o ensnare_v many_o in_o a_o course_n of_o sin_n the_o pretence_n excuse_n and_o deceit_n whereby_o man_n delude_v themselves_o in_o this_o sin_n be_v the_o same_o which_o the_o patron_n of_o loose_a and_o licentious_a toleration_n of_o every_o error_n in_o religion_n do_v make_v use_n of_o to_o wit_n that_o man_n conscience_n must_v be_v free_a in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o religion_n and_o no_o way_n be_v urge_v to_o use_v all_o mean_n which_o may_v give_v they_o right_a information_n and_o restrain_v their_o expression_n and_o practice_n which_o may_v infect_v pervert_v or_o ensnare_v other_o among_o who_o they_o live_v for_o say_v they_o god_n people_n must_v be_v a_o willing_a people_n and_o god_n only_o be_v lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o a_o curb_v of_o man_n profession_n and_o practice_n serve_v not_o to_o make_v man_n religious_a but_o hypocrite_n also_o and_o such_o like_a other_o pretence_n but_o no_o excuse_n of_o this_o sort_n can_v just_o hinder_v any_o who_o be_v in_o any_o place_n of_o authority_n or_o power_n or_o relation_n to_o be_v active_a or_o concur_v to_o extinguish_v the_o incendiary_n fire_v which_o may_v devour_v the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o kingdom_n wherein_o they_o live_v for_o whosoever_o have_v power_n over_o other_o and_o do_v not_o put_v forth_o their_o power_n to_o curb_v and_o repress_v those_o who_o lie_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o other_o do_v not_o only_o not_o impede_fw-la the_o grow_a contagion_n and_o infection_n of_o the_o body_n wherein_o they_o live_v but_o also_o in_o effect_n do_v countenance_n protect_v and_o promove_v the_o spread_a of_o the_o contagion_n of_o error_n &_o wickedness_n which_o they_o do_v tolerat_a yea_o and_o private_a person_n who_o do_v not_o lament_v the_o sin_n of_o such_o as_o do_v destroy_v themselves_o and_o infect_v other_o and_o do_v not_o mourn_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o they_o also_o who_o shall_v repress_v the_o contagion_n do_v make_v themselves_o accessary_a to_o these_o spread_a evil_n it_o be_v true_a many_o excuse_n may_v here_o be_v allege_v which_o we_o leave_v to_o those_o who_o have_v answer_v the_o objection_n of_o ungodly_a toleration_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o fear_n of_o worldly_a inconvenience_n ofttimes_o do_v more_o prevail_v for_o give_v way_n to_o licentious_a toleration_n than_o the_o fear_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n of_o god_n do_v prevail_v for_o discharge_v of_o duty_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n which_o do_v not_o take_v order_n with_o and_o repress_v the_o seducer_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n and_o their_o follower_n within_o their_o jurisdiction_n rev._n 2._o 14_o 15._o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o have_v thou_o also_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n i_o hate_v this_o be_v the_o sin_n which_o christ_n do_v reprehend_v in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n rev._n 2._o 20._o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jesabel_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o seduce_v my_o servant_n to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n 2._o for_o remedy_n against_o this_o evil_a 1._o let_v we_o verse_n ourselves_o well_o in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v in_o holy_a scripture_n that_o we_o may_v know_v well_o what_o be_v the_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o every_o man_n in_o his_o station_n and_o what_o vice_n he_o forbid_v lest_o we_o mistake_v virtue_n for_o a_o vice_n or_o vice_n for_o a_o virtue_n 2._o let_v we_o beware_v of_o rash_a censure_v and_o licentious_a carp_n at_o man_n infirmity_n as_o the_o apostle_n james_n give_v commandment_n my_o brethren_n be_v not_o many_o master_n know_v that_o we_o shall_v receive_v the_o great_a condemnation_n for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o 3._o let_v we_o earnest_o contend_v for_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v once_o deliver_v to_o the_o saint_n jude_n v_o 3._o lest_o seducer_n draw_v away_o the_o lord_n people_n from_o the_o truth_n of_o christ._n 4._o let_v every_o one_o consider_v his_o station_n place_n and_o power_n give_v to_o he_o and_o prudent_o go_v about_o the_o amend_v of_o other_o man_n fault_n and_o his_o own_o also_o for_o otherways_o a_o good_a duty_n may_v be_v mar_v in_o a_o man_n hand_n by_o imprudent_a manage_n thereof_o 5._o let_v a_o man_n resolve_v to_o meet_v with_o difficulty_n in_o curb_v false_a doctrine_n and_o scandalous_a practice_n and_o as_o a_o wise_a wariour_a to_o behave_v himself_o so_o as_o he_o may_v obtain_v the_o promise_n which_o christ_n have_v promise_v to_o the_o victorious_a rev._n 2._o 17._o 26_o 27._o for_o it_o be_v much_o better_a to_o displease_v man_n for_o his_o good_a and_o other_o then_o to_o displease_v christ_n and_o make_v ourselves_o partaker_n of_o other_o man_n sin_n and_o judgement_n and_o the_o true_a convert_n will_v easy_o make_v the_o choice_n chap._n iu._n concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n fall_v asleep_a in_o carnal_a security_n under_o guilâ—tnesse_n of_o fleshly_a pollution_n and_o dream_v himself_o to_o be_v in_o no_o ill_a condition_n sometime_o the_o flesh_n so_o far_o prevail_v against_o the_o renew_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o convert_n that_o not_o only_o they_o be_v overtake_v in_o a_o fault_n gal._n 6._o 1._o but_o also_o be_v as_o it_o be_v take_v captive_a and_o lead_v away_o for_o a_o time_n by_o the_o lustâ—_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o nearby_o recall_v unto_o the_o servitude_n of_o some_o wicked_a concupiscence_n in_o which_o condition_n it_o be_v possible_a they_o lie_v sleep_v a_o long_a time_n till_o god_n waken_v they_o out_o of_o their_o deadly_a lethargy_n and_o this_o condition_n alas_o be_v very_o oft_o to_o be_v find_v to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o christian_a profession_n in_o these_o that_o have_v begin_v to_o live_v blameless_o and_o have_v fall_v back_o to_o the_o filthy_a puddle_n of_o their_o old_a conversation_n whereby_o they_o draw_v upon_o themselves_o and_o their_o family_n god_n wrath_n and_o sad_a â—udgments_n of_o this_o disease_n we_o find_v there_o be_v not_o a_o few_o to_o be_v find_v in_o corinth_n 2_o cor._n 12._o 20_o 21._o 2._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o fearful_a condition_n be_v manifold_a and_o can_v easy_o be_v condescend_v upon_o for_o many_o defect_n and_o wicked_a motion_n of_o the_o heart_n do_v usual_o concur_v with_o the_o neglect_n of_o duty_n and_o commission_n of_o actual_a sin_n against_o the_o diâ—â—ction_n of_o the_o conscience_n at_o least_o without_o the_o remorse_n of_o conscience_n and_o true_a repentance_n before_o this_o fearful_a condition_n fix_v itself_o on_o a_o man_n
let_v the_o convert_v thus_o mistake_v after_o his_o experience_n feel_v that_o he_o have_v be_v carnal_o confident_a not_o be_v discourage_v as_o if_o his_o confidence_n which_o he_o seem_v to_o have_v place_v on_o god_n be_v altogether_o vain_a and_o in_o no_o degree_n spiritual_a but_o let_v he_o first_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o lord_n rod_n let_v he_o acknowledge_v the_o wisdom_n justice_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n who_o have_v remove_v this_o prop_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n and_o reduce_v he_o from_o go_v astray_o to_o depend_v more_o on_o god_n than_o he_o have_v do_v 2._o let_v he_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o renor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o find_v his_o own_o unrighteousness_n in_o follow_v and_o rely_v on_o creature-comfort_n to_o have_v be_v great_a 3._o let_v he_o set_v his_o affection_n upon_o thing_n spiritual_a which_o be_v above_o the_o earth_n and_o to_o be_v find_v in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n col._n 3._o 1._o 23._o and_o to_o loose_v his_o estimation_n and_o affection_n from_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v on_o earth_n 4._o because_o this_o sickness_n be_v not_o well_o observe_v except_o in_o the_o time_n of_o adversity_n let_v the_o afflict_a person_n approve_v himself_o in_o the_o point_n of_o sincerity_n of_o adherence_n unto_o god_n by_o his_o trust_n in_o god_n now_o when_o he_o want_v mean_n and_o creature-comfort_n as_o job_n do_v who_o in_o this_o condition_n bless_v god_n for_o the_o give_v of_o the_o benefit_n and_o bless_a god_n at_o the_o remove_n of_o they_o from_o he_o job._n 1._o 21._o for_o by_o so_o do_v he_o shall_v learn_v both_o to_o have_v and_o want_v and_o in_o every_o condition_n to_o be_v content_a as_o the_o apostle_n be_v teach_v phil_n 4._o 12._o and_o this_o be_v for_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n the_o other_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n be_v that_o which_o too_o much_o lean_v to_o some_o apparent_a measure_n of_o the_o operation_n and_o fruit_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n observe_v by_o the_o convert_n in_o himself_o and_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v take_v up_o and_o perceive_v chief_o by_o comparison_n of_o the_o convert_v strong_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o so_o long_o as_o he_o can_v find_v evidencâ—_n sign_n of_o his_o regeneration_n and_o work_v of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 〈◊〉_d himself_o with_o â—is_n weak_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o under_o the_o cloud_n of_o descrtion_n or_o under_o some_o powerful_a temptation_n when_o these_o evident_a sign_n of_o his_o conversion_n be_v darken_v or_o do_v not_o appear_v so_o clear_o unto_o himself_o as_o they_o do_v 〈◊〉_d in_o which_o case_n his_o confidence_n be_v great_o weaken_v and_o his_o faith_n not_o a_o little_a shake_v with_o doubt_v in_o both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o condition_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n stand_v fix_v and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n remain_v the_o same_o and_o the_o convert_v still_o adher_v to_o the_o covenant_n and_o claim_v interest_n in_o christ_n more_o or_o less_o confident_a whence_o come_v then_o this_o difference_n between_o his_o former_a confidence_n which_o be_v strong_a and_o his_o weak_a confidence_n now_o in_o the_o change_n of_o his_o case_n be_v bring_v low_a certain_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o smite_v of_o the_o pillar_n whereupon_o his_o former_a confidence_n be_v too_o much_o fix_v for_o whensoever_o the_o mist_n be_v clear_v up_o and_o he_o find_v the_o livelynesse_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o his_o confidence_n convalesce_v and_o return_n to_o it_o be_v former_a strength_n as_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o and_o when_o his_o grace_n be_v darken_v he_o fall_v in_o a_o languish_a weakness_n of_o faith_n this_o sickness_n be_v so_o frequent_o incident_a to_o the_o saint_n that_o few_o shall_v be_v find_v who_o be_v not_o again_o and_o again_o overtake_v in_o it_o for_o how_o few_o be_v they_o who_o be_v not_o much_o more_o confident_a when_o they_o find_v a_o heart_n free_o pour_v forth_o in_o prayer_n when_o they_o enjoy_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n when_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v shed_v abroad_o in_o their_o heart_n when_o they_o find_v the_o consolation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o they_o observe_v the_o â—ruits_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o themselves_o when_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n shine_v in_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o token_n of_o god_n savour_n towards_o they_o be_v manifest_a and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n when_o they_o find_v their_o spiritual_a condition_n change_v when_o darkness_n fall_v on_o their_o spirit_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o unfit_a for_o worship_n and_o unable_a to_o do_v service_n but_o most_o of_o all_o when_o they_o perceive_v token_n of_o fatherly_a wrath_n against_o they_o superadd_v unto_o the_o foresay_a evil_n in_o this_o case_n who_o be_v he_o that_o beside_o the_o inevitable_a perturbation_n of_o mind_n incident_a to_o those_o who_o be_v strong_a in_o faith_n do_v not_o find_v a_o diminution_n of_o his_o former_a confidence_n and_o a_o conflict_n with_o temptation_n fear_n doubt_n and_o difficulty_n which_o diminution_n and_o abate_v of_o his_o confidence_n in_o his_o trial_n and_o inward_a exercise_n do_v evident_o prove_v that_o in_o his_o best_a condition_n he_o have_v lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o on_o the_o mutable_a disposition_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o have_v not_o so_o stucken_v to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n through_o jesus_n as_o become_v he_o 2._o that_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v the_o more_o easy_o clear_v and_o cure_v it_o be_v expedient_a to_o answer_v some_o question_n which_o be_v discuss_v may_v inform_v and_o edify_v the_o afflict_a question_v 1_o the_o first_o question_n which_o the_o afflict_a may_v propound_v be_v this_o see_v the_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n manifest_v in_o the_o bestow_n and_o continue_v of_o common_a benefit_n and_o gift_n outward_a and_o inward_a do_v certain_o serve_v to_o confirm_v a_o man_n faith_n in_o god_n be_v it_o not_o very_o reasonable_a to_o say_v that_o the_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n manifest_v in_o the_o remove_n of_o those_o benefit_n do_v certain_o serve_v to_o debilitat_fw-la and_o weaken_v a_o man_n faith_n ans._n 1._o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n and_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a because_o god_n can_v carry_v love_n and_o favour_n to_o a_o man_n and_o be_v angry_a at_o he_o also_o for_o the_o present_a ill_a disposition_n wherein_o he_o be_v for_o love_n and_o fatherly_a wrath_n be_v not_o opposite_a and_o inconsistent_a but_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v inconsistent_a 2._o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o any_o sign_n whatsoever_o of_o god_n favour_n may_v be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o the_o convert_n for_o strengthen_v of_o his_o faith_n yet_o it_o must_v not_o be_v grant_v that_o the_o take_v away_o of_o those_o sign_n of_o favour_n shall_v be_v make_v use_n of_o for_o weaken_v of_o a_o man_n faith_n for_o many_o thing_n may_v encourage_v a_o man_n to_o do_v his_o duty_n which_o be_v remove_v must_v not_o discourage_v he_o or_o just_o hinder_v he_o to_o do_v his_o duty_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o man_n who_o never_o find_v any_o other_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n beside_o prosperity_n in_o common_a benefit_n and_o the_o man_n who_o beside_o common_a benefit_n have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o grace_n upon_o his_o spirit_n bring_v he_o unto_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o chase_v he_o to_o christ_n and_o make_v he_o to_o take_v on_o his_o yoke_n the_o first_o sort_n of_o man_n can_v neither_o from_o the_o have_v nor_o want_v or_o removal_n of_o common_a benefit_n conclude_v eh_n be_v love_v or_o hate_v for_o so_o be_v we_o teach_v eccles._n 9_o 1_o 2_o no_o man_n know_v either_o love_n or_o hatred_n by_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o all_o thing_n come_v alike_o to_o all_o etc._n etc._n but_o a_o man_n of_o this_o sort_n have_v reason_n to_o judge_v that_o the_o send_n on_o he_o adversity_n and_o waken_n of_o he_o out_o of_o a_o flâ—shly_a and_o deadly_a security_n do_v speak_v more_o of_o god_n favour_n to_o he_o than_o his_o prosperity_n do_v and_o this_o other_o sort_n of_o man_n who_o have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o special_a grace_n on_o their_o heart_n may_v make_v use_n both_o of_o their_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n for_o confirmation_n of_o their_o faith_n 4._o put_v case_n that_o a_o convert_n chase_v unto_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o resolve_v to_o bear_v christ_n yoke_n upon_o he_o shall_v find_v common_a benefit_n take_v back_o
lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o no_o man_n may_v take_v upon_o he_o that_o power_n to_o prescrib_n unto_o and_o command_v another_o man_n conscience_n let_v he_o know_v that_o god_n indeed_o be_v the_o only_a lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o because_o he_o be_v lord_n therefore_o have_v he_o appoint_v his_o minister_n to_o teach_v man_n the_o truth_n and_o to_o press_v the_o disobedient_a member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n with_o censure_n and_o have_v put_v the_o sword_n in_o the_o magistrate_n hand_n to_o see_v his_o will_n do_v and_o to_o punish_v such_o as_o refuse_v to_o give_v obedience_n to_o his_o command_n that_o so_o obedience_n may_v be_v procure_v to_o god_n the_o only_a lord_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o which_o case_n albeit_o the_o act_n command_v by_o the_o will_n and_o conscience_n be_v curb_v and_o restrain_v yet_o the_o will_n and_o conscience_n be_v not_o compel_v but_o be_v bring_v to_o a_o better_a determination_n of_o its_o own_o elicit_a act_n that_o have_v obtain_v a_o clear_a light_n about_o its_o duty_n it_o may_v command_v the_o outward_a man_n to_o say_v &_o do_v what_o be_v right_a if_o he_o pretend_v that_o religion_n be_v not_o to_o be_v propagat_n and_o press_v by_o force_n but_o by_o the_o word_n preach_v and_o heresy_n be_v to_o be_v root_v out_o not_o by_o the_o sword_n but_o by_o the_o power_n of_o truth_n hold_v forth_o to_o the_o heretic_n let_v he_o know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n between_o propagation_n of_o religion_n among_o pagan_n or_o people_n not_o under_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n or_o church_n judicatories_n and_o the_o preservation_n or_o purgation_n of_o religion_n among_o they_o that_o be_v within_o the_o visible_a church_n and_o under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n for_o albeit_o the_o only_a way_n to_o bring_v religion_n in_o request_n among_o heathen_a nation_n and_o stranger_n to_o the_o covenant_n of_o promise_n be_v that_o way_n which_o the_o apostle_n do_v follow_v preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o all_o and_o receive_v such_o as_o embrace_v the_o gospel_n into_o church-fellowship_n yet_o the_o magistrate_n have_v civil_a dominion_n over_o heathen_a idolater_n may_v after_o information_n of_o they_o by_o the_o preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n break_v their_o idol_n and_o abolish_v they_o and_o restrain_v they_o from_o do_v contempt_n unto_o the_o true_a religion_n or_o abuse_v of_o the_o sabbath_n as_o the_o four_o command_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n do_v give_v warrant_n yea_o and_o may_v compel_v they_o to_o use_v the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v instruct_v in_o the_o true_a religion_n again_o let_v he_o know_v there_o be_v a_o difference_n between_o deal_v with_o pagan_n and_o stranger_n from_o the_o commonwealth_n of_o israel_n and_o deal_v with_o these_o who_o have_v give_v up_o their_o name_n unto_o christ_n have_v enter_v in_o covenant_n with_o god_n and_o by_o baptism_n have_v consecrat_v themselves_o and_o their_o child_n unto_o the_o faith_n worship_n and_o obedience_n of_o god_n and_o do_v profess_v the_o christian_n religion_n and_o yet_o go_v about_o by_o their_o error_n and_o practice_n to_o corrupt_v and_o over-turn_a the_o true_a religion_n and_o say_v of_o other_o among_o who_o they_o live_v for_o such_o may_v and_o shall_v be_v not_o only_o instruct_v by_o sermon_n conference_n and_o dispute_n but_o also_o punish_v by_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n for_o their_o deceive_n of_o the_o people_n and_o trouble_v the_o flock_n of_o christ_n deut._n 13._o and_o rom._n 13._o if_o he_o pretend_v that_o church-censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n can_v serve_v for_o nothing_o but_o to_o make_v man_n dissembler_n and_o hypocrite_n in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o religion_n which_o be_v most_o odious_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o wise_a man_n let_v he_o know_v that_o every_o hypocrite_n shall_v bear_v his_o own_o iniquity_n ecclesiastic_a censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n concern_v the_o word_n and_o deed_n of_o the_o outward_a man_n that_o they_o may_v be_v order_v so_o as_o religion_n and_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o kingdom_n may_v not_o suffer_v detriment_n if_o any_o man_n say_v and_o do_v that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n the_o society_n wherein_o he_o live_v be_v safe_a but_o for_o his_o hypocrisy_n let_v the_o dissembler_n answer_v to_o god_n for_o it_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v presume_v that_o all_o who_o by_o censure_n and_o fear_v of_o civil_a punishment_n do_v forsake_v error_n and_o embrace_v truth_n be_v dissembler_n and_o hypocrite_n in_o so_o do_v because_o they_o be_v mean_v appoint_v of_o god_n for_o curb_v and_o reclaim_v erroneous_a person_n wherewith_o he_o give_v his_o blessing_n when_o it_o please_v he_o for_o by_o censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n the_o allurement_n which_o have_v enduce_v they_o to_o error_n be_v cut_v off_o such_o as_o be_v applause_n of_o man_n vain_a glory_n worldly_a advantage_n sensual_a pleasure_n and_o such_o like_a wherein_o the_o erroneous_a have_v be_v take_v as_o in_o a_o evil_a net_n which_o be_v break_v the_o ensnare_v captive_a may_v come_v free_o off_o his_o error_n and_o embrace_v the_o truth_n and_o take_v in_o good_a part_n the_o censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n which_o draw_v he_o out_o of_o the_o snare_n into_o the_o right_a way_n as_o we_o be_v assure_v by_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o zechariah_n chap._n 13._o 6._o and_o one_o shall_v say_v to_o wit_n to_o the_o convert_a sectary_n what_o be_v these_o wound_n in_o thy_o hand_n then_o he_o shall_v answer_v those_o with_o which_o i_o be_v wound_v in_o the_o house_n of_o my_o friend_n but_o whether_o by_o those_o mean_v the_o erroneous_a be_v reclaim_v hearty_o or_o in_o dissimulation_n respect_n must_v be_v have_v to_o god_n command_n and_o his_o people_n good_a by_o curb_v of_o vice_n and_o error_n according_a as_o god_n have_v give_v power_n to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n rom._n 13._o 3_o 4._o who_o be_v appoint_v the_o minster_n of_o god_n for_o the_o people_n good_a if_o he_o shall_v object_v that_o he_o who_o charge_v he_o for_o his_o error_n be_v no_o less_o subject_n to_o error_n than_o he_o who_o he_o charge_v yea_o that_o governor_n ecclesiastic_a and_o civil_a be_v no_o more_o exeme_v from_o the_o danger_n of_o err_a then_o private_a person_n yea_o that_o the_o determination_n of_o synod_n and_o council_n be_v not_o infallible_a yea_o that_o he_o be_v persuade_v the_o error_n he_o be_v charge_v of_o be_v no_o error_n but_o not_o persuade_v of_o the_o truth_n which_o the_o reformer_n of_o he_o pretend_v unto_o let_v he_o know_v that_o the_o force_n of_o his_o objection_n do_v assert_v that_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n be_v settle_v upon_o the_o mispersuaded_n sectary_n part_n and_o that_o the_o church_n and_o magistrate_n who_o â—indeth_v fault_n with_o he_o have_v nothing_o to_o persuade_v they_o of_o the_o truth_n which_o they_o do_v press_v upon_o the_o sectary_n and_o so_o can_v condemn_v or_o punish_v he_o but_o he_o must_v know_v that_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o say_v one_o may_v err_v in_o the_o latitude_n of_o a_o possibility_n indefinite_a another_o to_o say_v one_o do_v err_v in_o such_o a_o particular_a wherein_o he_o have_v the_o light_n of_o scripture_n and_o reason_n clear_a for_o he_o the_o sectary_n will_v not_o deny_v he_o may_v err_v but_o he_o will_v maintain_v that_o in_o such_o one_o or_o other_o article_n of_o his_o profession_n he_o do_v not_o err_v shall_v he_o maintain_v his_o plea_n that_o he_o do_v not_o err_v in_o such_o a_o point_n of_o error_n and_o shall_v not_o the_o magistrate_n and_o church_n maintain_v their_o plea_n that_o they_o do_v not_o err_v in_o punish_v such_o a_o obstinate_a erroneous_a person_n christ_n have_v commit_v the_o key_n of_o doctrine_n and_o discipline_n to_o his_o church_n that_o private_a person_n may_v know_v christ_n will_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n except_o he_o will_v be_v hold_v for_o a_o heathen_a or_o publican_n mat._n 18._o 17._o he_o have_v also_o commit_v the_o power_n of_o the_o sword_n unto_o the_o magistrate_n who_o do_v not_o bear_v the_o sword_n in_o vain_a rom._n 13._o and_o therefore_o let_v the_o church_n and_o magistrate_n do_v their_o duty_n and_o let_v erroneous_a person_n cease_v to_o stumble_v the_o lord_n people_n by_o their_o error_n and_o practice_n and_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v bring_v in_o order_n by_o such_o as_o have_v commission_n and_o power_n to_o move_v they_o by_o censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n thereunto_o if_o still_o he_o will_v insist_v and_o allege_v that_o by_o this_o mean_v a_o christian_a by_o censure_n and_o civil_a punishment_n be_v compel_v to_o sin_n against_o his_o conscience_n let_v he_o know_v that_o a_o scandalous_a sectary_n or_o
example_n of_o a_o conscience_n err_v by_o esteem_v a_o good_a condition_n to_o be_v a_o evil_a condition_n of_o the_o which_o sort_n this_o shall_v be_v one_o sometime_o some_o convert_n do_v mistake_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n grant_v unto_o they_o after_o hard_a exercise_n and_o do_v esteem_v the_o quietness_n of_o their_o conscience_n to_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o carnal_a security_n and_o sleepy_a disposition_n of_o the_o conscience_n to_o which_o case_n that_o we_o may_v speak_v the_o more_o clear_o we_o do_v not_o deny_v that_o many_o be_v who_o indeed_o fall_v in_o a_o carnal_a security_n and_o please_v themselves_o therein_o conceive_v they_o have_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n and_o a_o bless_a quietness_n of_o conscience_n such_o person_n have_v no_o doubt_n nor_o suspicion_n but_o all_o be_v well_o with_o they_o for_o they_o do_v not_o examine_v and_o compare_v their_o condition_n and_o way_n with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o sleep_v sweet_o in_o their_o carnal_a security_n and_o negligence_n of_o spiritual_a duty_n like_v to_o these_o lukewarm_a laodicean_n rev._n 3_o of_o such_o we_o do_v not_o speak_v here_o 2._o again_o we_o do_v not_o deny_v that_o true_a convert_n be_v in_o danger_n to_o suffer_v the_o peace_n which_o god_n have_v grant_v unto_o they_o to_o degenerate_v unto_o a_o carnal_a security_n for_o easy_o may_v a_o convert_v after_o consolation_n divine_a fall_n in_o a_o sleep_n as_o the_o spouse_n do_v in_o the_o canticle_n 5._o 2._o but_o we_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o case_n of_o a_o convert_n watch_v unto_o duty_n who_o after_o no_o small_a vexation_n in_o his_o conflict_n with_o the_o tentation_n of_o the_o devil_n with_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o law_n and_o sense_n of_o divine_a wrath_n have_v get_v the_o victory_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o have_v obtain_v peace_n with_o god_n gracious_o grant_v his_o petition_n we_o be_v speak_v here_o of_o these_o convert_n who_o after_o the_o lord_n have_v grant_v peace_n unto_o they_o through_o faith_n in_o christ_n dare_v not_o enjoy_v their_o peace_n but_o do_v suspect_v that_o their_o peace_n be_v not_o sound_a and_o at_o length_n do_v count_v and_o call_v it_o carnal_a security_n and_o so_o do_v breed_v themselves_o new_a trouble_n of_o mind_n the_o pretence_n and_o seem_a reason_n whereby_o they_o do_v deceive_v themselves_o be_v this_o when_o god_n say_v they_o seem_v unto_o we_o angry_a with_o we_o when_o we_o find_v no_o peace_n and_o be_v wrestle_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o in_o doubt_n whether_o such_o as_o we_o shall_v find_v mercy_n than_o we_o do_v pray_v very_o earnest_o night_n and_o day_n than_o we_o be_v diligent_a in_o hear_v and_o read_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o be_v painful_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o obedience_n but_o now_o we_o find_v ourselves_o much_o cool_v and_o slacken_v in_o all_o these_o duty_n whereupon_o we_o just_o suspect_v the_o peace_n which_o we_o now_o do_v find_v to_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o carnal_a security_n of_o a_o sleep_a conscience_n by_o this_o mistake_n all_o thanksgiving_n for_o the_o peace_n grant_v unto_o they_o be_v wellnear_o suffocat_fw-la &_o extinguish_v their_o former_a condition_n under_o doubt_n and_o fear_n be_v judge_v to_o be_v better_a than_o their_o present_a condition_n they_o wish_v their_o former_a fear_n may_v return_v rather_o than_o they_o shall_v continue_v in_o this_o condition_n wherein_o their_o tear_n be_v dry_v up_o and_o their_o former_a diligence_n eat_v up_o hence_o go_v they_o on_o to_o lay_v forth_o their_o complaint_n before_o their_o intimate_fw-la acquaintance_n concern_v god_n dispensation_n and_o deal_n with_o they_o because_o the_o spirit_n of_o fear_n and_o reverence_n towards_o god_n the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o supplication_n be_v much_o diminish_v and_o near-by_a quench_v in_o they_o by_o which_o complaint_n they_o do_v not_o only_o breed_v trouble_n to_o themselves_o but_o also_o make_v heavy_a the_o heart_n of_o their_o godly_a friend_n and_o do_v tempt_v they_o to_o fall_v into_o the_o like_a complaint_n and_o to_o grieve_v the_o lord_n spirit_n 2_o this_o mistake_n do_v arise_v partly_o from_o the_o not_o consider_v and_o esteem_v of_o the_o gracious_a gift_n of_o peace_n and_o other_o grace_n bestow_v upon_o they_o and_o partly_o from_o a_o wrong_a comparison_n of_o their_o former_a &_o present_a condition_n for_o first_o the_o afflict_a person_n take_v no_o notice_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o new_a creature_n in_o himself_o he_o do_v not_o consider_v how_o great_a a_o benefit_n be_v bestow_v upon_o he_o when_o he_o fear_v to_o offend_v god_n fear_v to_o be_v shut_v out_o from_o society_n with_o he_o and_o earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v sure_a of_o his_o favour_n in_o christ_n he_o have_v not_o a_o due_a estimation_n of_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o war_n with_o sin_n in_o himself_o join_v together_o to_o be_v free_v from_o the_o torment_n of_o the_o conscience_n condemn_v he_o according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o withal_o a_o desire_n and_o delight_n in_o the_o obedience_n of_o the_o gospel_n join_v together_o 2._o he_o do_v inconsiderat_o exact_a of_o his_o conscience_n that_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v in_o the_o same_o disposition_n before_o peace_n be_v grant_v and_o after_o that_o it_o be_v bestow_v or_o that_o his_o affection_n shall_v be_v stir_v up_o one_o and_o the_o same_o way_n in_o both_o these_o case_n for_o before_o peace_n be_v give_v he_o can_v choose_v but_o he_o must_v have_v sorrow_n heaviness_n of_o heart_n unquietness_n fear_n and_o such_o like_a other_o sad_a affection_n but_o after_o that_o god_n grant_v peace_n these_o perturbation_n be_v quiet_v torment_v fear_n cease_v lamentation_n be_v restrain_v tear_n be_v washen_v away_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n and_o in_o their_o place_n do_v thanksgiving_n to_o and_o praise_n of_o god_n succeed_v and_o every_o duty_n do_v call_v for_o their_o own_o place_n in_o a_o pacify_v mind_n so_o that_o the_o man_n body_n be_v not_o neglect_v as_o before_o but_o care_v have_v of_o keep_v health_n for_o enable_v to_o do_v what_o be_v require_v of_o he_o in_o his_o call_n towards_o every_o one_o with_o who_o he_o live_v for_o now_o his_o condition_n be_v change_v why_o shall_v not_o his_o affection_n and_o the_o effect_n depend_v on_o they_o be_v change_v also_o who_o can_v reasonable_o exact_v the_o same_o duty_n of_o a_o man_n in_o a_o fight_n which_o he_o may_v require_v of_o he_o when_o he_o have_v get_v the_o victory_n who_o can_v expect_v the_o same_o carriage_n from_o a_o man_n when_o he_o be_v sick_a and_o when_o he_o be_v in_o health_n do_v not_o the_o apostle_n say_v jam._n 5_o 13._o if_o any_o man_n be_v afflict_v let_v he_o pray_v be_v any_o merry_a let_v he_o sing_v psalm_n 3._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a 1._o leâ—_n the_o afflict_a examine_v himself_o whether_o this_o peace_n have_v have_v a_o conflict_n of_o conscience_n and_o faith_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o fear_n of_o the_o wrath_n threaten_v in_o the_o law_n go_v before_o it_o or_o not_o 2._o whether_o this_o peace_n have_v follow_v upon_o fly_v to_o châ—â—st_v by_o faith_n unto_o who_o he_o do_v cleave_v in_o his_o sad_a exercise_n 3._o whether_o this_o peace_n have_v follow_v after_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n make_v to_o god_n for_o it_o that_o he_o may_v without_o fear_n of_o his_o enemy_n serve_v god_n all_o the_o day_n of_o his_o life_n 4._o and_o last_o of_o all_o whether_o his_o heart_n still_o incline_v and_o endeavour_v to_o give_v obedience_n to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v grieve_v for_o his_o short-coming_a therein_o if_o these_o thing_n do_v concur_v which_o beseem_v a_o convert_n let_v he_o persuade_v himself_o his_o peace_n which_o he_o have_v censure_v for_o carnal_a security_n be_v the_o solid_a peace_n of_o god_n mistake_v by_o he_o and_o therefore_o 1._o let_v he_o no_o more_o suspect_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n but_o hold_v fast_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n chase_v to_o christ_n have_v lay_v hold_n on_o that_o be_v now_o justify_v by_o faith_n he_o may_v have_v peace_n with_o god_n rom._n 5._o 1._o for_o god_n do_v not_o give_v to_o his_o supplicant_n carnal_a security_n for_o peace_n a_o stone_n for_o bread_n and_o a_o adder_n for_o fish_n but_o 2._o let_v he_o observe_v the_o wile_n and_o malice_n of_o satan_n who_o can_v endure_v that_o the_o soul_n flee_v from_o he_o to_o christ_n shall_v have_v peace_n or_o in_o the_o enjoy_n of_o it_o bless_v god_n for_o his_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o 3._o let_v he_o study_v to_o make_v use_n of_o this_o peace_n grant_v to_o he_o go_v on_o in_o the_o obedience_n of_o god_n command_v cheerful_o and_o to_o
seal_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o promise_n ephes._n 1._o 11._o as_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o wholesome_a water_n give_v to_o a_o feaver-sick_a person_n be_v not_o a_o wholesome_a drink_n because_o the_o cool_a refreshment_n by_o it_o endure_v but_o a_o short_a while_n so_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o consolation_n and_o joy_n give_v to_o a_o sorrowful_a sinner_n seek_v favour_n through_o christ_n be_v not_o solid_a and_o true_a joy_n because_o it_o stay_v but_o a_o short_a while_n it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o it_o have_v stay_v so_o long_o as_o be_v needful_a for_o after_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n be_v believe_v the_o joy_n be_v send_v to_o ease_v the_o afflict_a soul_n present_a grief_n and_o to_o give_v he_o earnest_n that_o full_a and_o last_a joy_n shall_v be_v give_v in_o due_a time_n unto_o he_o when_o the_o messenger_n have_v do_v his_o commission_n let_v he_o return_v to_o his_o master_n as_o the_o sheet_n let_v down_o in_o the_o vision_n from_o heaven_n to_o peter_n after_o it_o have_v serve_v for_o peter_n instruction_n it_o be_v take_v up_o to_o heaven_n again_o act._n 10._o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n know_v by_o experience_n that_o her_o spiritual_a joy_n will_v not_o last_v long_o and_o therefore_o charge_v the_o daughter_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o they_o waken_v not_o she_o belove_v till_o he_o please_v 5._o another_o objection_n be_v this_o if_o my_o joy_n have_v be_v solid_a say_v the_o afflict_a it_o shall_v have_v bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o it_o have_v do_v but_o joy_n spiritual_a as_o i_o then_o call_v it_o do_v degenerate_a into_o a_o carnal_a security_n and_o i_o be_v not_o the_o more_o holy_a by_o it_o to_o which_o objection_n the_o answer_n may_v be_v this_o the_o blame_n of_o this_o be_v not_o to_o be_v lay_v on_o spiritual_a joy_n but_o upon_o the_o abuse_n of_o this_o mercy_n by_o ingratitude_n for_o this_o gracious_a blink_n of_o feel_a favour_n negligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o entertain_v this_o sense_n by_o sleepiness_n of_o conscience_n and_o other_o sin_n and_o namely_o the_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o this_o sense_n and_o not_o fix_v the_o heart_n by_o so_o much_o more_o upon_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n when_o feel_v consolation_n may_v be_v withdraw_v be_v a_o just_a cause_n for_o spiritual_a joy_n be_v not_o give_v to_o any_o to_o build_v upon_o its_o continuance_n but_o to_o make_v the_o convert_n hold_v the_o confirm_a word_n of_o promise_n so_o much_o the_o fast_o when_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n comfortable_a feeling_n be_v withdraw_v the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n after_o a_o feast_n of_o this_o kind_n fall_v a_o sleep_n and_o give_v slight_a entertain_v to_o the_o bridegroom_n when_o call_v upon_o by_o his_o word_n for_o which_o she_o be_v chastise_v by_o his_o withdraw_n of_o his_o comfortable_a presence_n cant._n 5._o 1_o 2_o 3._o etc._n etc._n but_o let_v we_o put_v the_o case_n that_o the_o feel_v joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o abuse_v yet_o be_v it_o not_o unusual_a for_o god_n to_o withdraw_v consolation_n and_o to_o send_v trouble_n and_o anguish_n on_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o dear_a child_n to_o try_v his_o faith_n and_o train_n he_o on_o to_o hold_v the_o word_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o hard_a condition_n he_o can_v be_v into_o as_o he_o do_v exercise_n job_n and_o jeremie_n the_o prophet_n jer._n 20._o and_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o in_o which_o condition_n to_o suspect_v that_o the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o heart_n by_o his_o word_n be_v not_o his_o gracious_a operation_n or_o be_v a_o delusion_n can_v but_o exceed_o grieve_v the_o lord_n and_o give_v he_o cause_n to_o chastise_v this_o suspicion_n with_o desertion_n 6._o but_o how_o may_v i_o know_v say_v the_o afflict_a that_o my_o joy_n be_v solid_a and_o be_v indeed_o the_o gracious_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n for_o answer_v 1._o if_o this_o joy_n be_v give_v to_o he_o when_o or_o after_o he_o be_v lament_v his_o sin_n and_o fear_v wrath_n deserve_v and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n he_o have_v reason_n to_o reckon_v that_o joy_n to_o be_v such_o as_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v promise_n and_o approve_v 2._o if_o during_o the_o time_n of_o his_o sweet_a feel_n of_o peace_n and_o joy_n through_o christ_n he_o find_v his_o faith_n in_o god_n and_o love_n to_o christ_n confirm_v and_o strengthen_v if_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v in_o more_o estimation_n with_o he_o if_o his_o heart_n be_v enlarge_v to_o bless_v praise_n and_o thank_v god_n for_o manifest_v himself_o in_o christ_n reconcile_v if_o the_o purpose_n of_o follow_v after_o holiness_n be_v renew_v in_o he_o he_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o suspect_v his_o joy_n and_o comfort_n 3._o if_o after_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o sweet_a feeling_n he_o be_v go_v on_o in_o the_o study_n of_o holiness_n believe_v in_o christ_n how_o heavy_a in_o heart_n soever_o he_o may_v be_v by_o affliction_n and_o tentation_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v his_o sometime_o feel_a joy_n of_o the_o lord_n spirit_n be_v solid_a and_o his_o present_a suspicion_n thereof_o to_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o his_o infirmity_n and_o of_o a_o tentation_n from_o satan_n this_o be_v the_o way_n how_o the_o psalmist_n wrestle_v out_o of_o his_o sad_a condition_n ps._n 77._o chap._n fourteen_o of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v that_o his_o zeal_n for_o god_n and_o against_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o have_v be_v fleshly_a severity_n and_o imprudent_a temerity_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o who_o love_n god_n sincere_o and_o can_v endure_v the_o out-breaking_n of_o the_o wicked_a do_v sometime_o transgress_v the_o bound_n of_o moderate_a zeal_n and_o be_v overtake_v in_o some_o miscarriage_n for_o which_o be_v rebuke_v by_o their_o friend_n or_o by_o they_o in_o power_n censure_v or_o civil_o chastise_v do_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_v their_o zeal_n in_o time_n come_v grow_v more_o slack_a and_o remiss_a in_o their_o zeal_n suspect_v themselves_o incline_v to_o unreasonable_a severity_n and_o rashness_n and_o ready_a to_o be_v esteem_v hater_n of_o man_n person_n by_o those_o among_o who_o they_o live_v as_o in_o some_o bygone_a experience_n they_o have_v already_o feel_v and_o upon_o this_o occasion_n the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n fall_v on_o tend_v to_o extinguish_v the_o fervency_n of_o true_a zeal_n require_v in_o all_o true_a convert_n and_o here_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o true_a zeal_n grow_v cold_a and_o the_o convert_v become_v lukewarm_a both_o in_o curb_v sin_n in_o other_o under_o his_o charge_n and_o in_o pursue_v duty_n in_o his_o own_o person_n in_o which_o sickness_n he_o may_v be_v the_o better_o please_v with_o himself_o by_o so_o much_o as_o his_o friend_n and_o other_o do_v commend_v he_o for_o his_o moderation_n and_o prudence_n as_o they_o shall_v call_v it_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o that_o may_v befall_v true_a zeal_n which_o be_v common_a to_o other_o virtue_n of_o which_o there_o be_v none_o so_o perfect_a but_o some_o in-lake_n or_o excess_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o they_o and_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v without_o reason_n to_o go_v back_o from_o pursue_v duty_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o other_o virtue_n because_o imperfection_n therein_o be_v remarkable_a from_o time_n to_o time_n so_o be_v it_o without_o reason_n to_o grow_v lukewarm_a in_o zeal_n which_o may_v render_v a_o man_n loathsome_a unto_o christ_n rev._n 2._o 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o convert_v take_v heed_n what_o the_o lord_n word_n do_v require_v of_o he_o in_o his_o call_n and_o labour_n to_o discharge_v his_o duty_n towards_o other_o so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v find_v both_o zealous_a and_o prudent_a that_o in_o the_o expression_n of_o his_o zeal_n against_o sin_n meekness_n and_o love_n to_o the_o offender_n may_v be_v manifest_v 2._o to_o this_o intent_n let_v the_o convert_v careful_o take_v heed_n to_o entertain_v these_o three_o property_n of_o commendable_a zeal_n which_o be_v 1._o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 2._o humility_n of_o heart_n 3._o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n for_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n will_v not_o suffer_v the_o convert_n to_o depart_v from_o his_o commandment_n humility_n of_o heart_n will_v make_v the_o man_n modest_a in_o his_o expression_n and_o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n will_v make_v he_o mix_v meekness_n and_o compassion_n towards_o sinner_n with_o his_o zeal_n against_o offence_n this_o be_v the_o right_a season_n of_o zeal_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o zeal_n of_o god_n according_a to_o knowledge_n chap._n xv._n of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v his_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a
strengthen_v and_o set_v forward_o to_o glorify_v god_n in_o christ_n in_o necessary_a duty_n as_o for_o the_o manner_n and_o measure_n to_o be_v keep_v in_o the_o use_n of_o thing_n lawful_a prudence_n must_v be_v ask_v of_o god_n who_o will_v direct_v we_o in_o this_o as_o in_o other_o christian_a duty_n chap._n xvi_o concern_v the_o convert_n suspicion_n that_o his_o softness_n of_o heart_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o natural_a disposition_n to_o weep_v upon_o any_o occasion_n when_o the_o lord_n have_v take_v away_o from_o the_o sinner_n a_o heart_n of_o stone_n and_o have_v give_v unto_o he_o a_o heart_n of_o flesh_n so_o that_o he_o there_fw-mi not_o any_o more_o harden_v himself_o against_o the_o threaten_n of_o god_n word_n but_o do_v tremble_v at_o the_o hear_n thereof_o as_o speak_v isaiah_n 66._o 2._o and_o in_o his_o prayer_n do_v pour_v forth_o his_o heart_n ordinary_o with_o tear_n he_o may_v as_o experience_n have_v teach_v fall_v in_o a_o suspicion_n of_o this_o ordinar_n or_o frequent_a melt_a of_o heart_n as_o if_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o childish_a or_o woman-like_a temper_n of_o body_n and_o spirit_n and_o no_o evidence_n of_o contrition_n for_o spiritual_a cause_n which_o the_o scripture_n require_v and_o commend_v in_o the_o penitent_a 2._o in_o this_o case_n there_o be_v danger_n on_o either_o hand_n if_o the_o convert_n be_v not_o wary_a and_o circumspect_a in_o this_o condition_n for_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n he_o be_v in_o hazard_n of_o make_v light_a account_n of_o the_o work_n of_o god_n who_o have_v take_v from_o he_o the_o heart_n of_o stone_n and_o give_v he_o a_o heart_n of_o flesh_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n he_o be_v in_o hazard_n of_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o his_o tear_n if_o once_o he_o be_v satisfy_v about_o the_o suspicion_n he_o have_v of_o his_o own_o tear_n and_o make_v clear_a that_o they_o be_v proof_n and_o evidence_n of_o his_o sincerity_n in_o his_o prayer_n to_o god_n that_o there_o be_v a_o danger_n on_o either_o hand_n experience_n have_v teach_v for_o some_o sincere_a convert_n have_v entertain_v the_o suspicion_n that_o their_o tear_n in_o prayer_n proceed_v from_o the_o soft_a temper_n of_o their_o natural_a complexion_n &_o disposition_n of_o spirit_n have_v resist_v their_o inclination_n to_o mourn_v and_o strive_v against_o let_v forth_o of_o tear_n so_o far_o that_o they_o have_v become_v so_o dry_a for_o a_o long_a time_n and_o have_v pray_v more_o perfunctorious_o than_o before_o that_o when_o just_a cause_n of_o grief_n and_o tear_n be_v give_v unto_o they_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o bring_v forth_o one_o tear_n for_o ease_v of_o their_o grieve_a heart_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n experience_n have_v teach_v that_o some_o look_v upon_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o scripture_n concern_v their_o tear_n have_v lay_v so_o much_o weight_n upon_o their_o tear_n as_o they_o have_v number_v in_o a_o manner_n all_o the_o drop_n of_o their_o eye_n and_o from_o the_o less_o or_o more_o quantity_n of_o they_o make_v reckon_v of_o their_o own_o better_a or_o worse_a condition_n and_o of_o god_n acceptation_n of_o their_o prayer_n less_o or_o more_o 3._o this_o tenderness_n of_o heart_n and_o easiness_n to_o be_v move_v unto_o tear_n for_o spiritual_a motive_n be_v a_o rare_a gift_n few_o they_o be_v who_o with_o sense_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o original_a sin_n bear_v they_o down_o do_v lament_v their_o natural_a sinfulness_n in_o their_o best_a condition_n with_o paul_n rom._n 7._o 24._o few_o shall_v be_v find_v so_o affectionate_a to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o people_n soul_n as_o to_o pour_v out_o tear_n both_o in_o secret_a and_o open_o for_o promove_v thereof_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v act._n 20._o 19_o 21._o and_o 2_o cor._n 2._o 4._o few_o like_a timothy_n who_o heart_n be_v so_o tender_a that_o the_o apostle_n can_v not_o but_o observe_v his_o tear_n and_o remember_v they_o 2_o tim._n 1._o 4._o yet_o we_o doubt_v not_o that_o from_o age_n to_o age_n sundry_a be_v who_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n have_v this_o constant_o melt_a heart_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n free_a donation_n some_o with_o tear_n some_o without_o tear_n and_o therefore_o if_o there_o be_v find_v in_o such_o mourner_n a_o honest_a endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o let_v not_o the_o suspicion_n that_o their_o tenderness_n be_v but_o natural_a weakness_n of_o spirit_n or_o bodily_a complexion_n be_v entertain_v only_o let_v the_o giver_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o a_o tender_a heart_n be_v rely_v upon_o and_o not_o their_o tear_n as_o if_o they_o be_v any_o more_o than_o witness_n of_o their_o honest_a affection_n in_o spiritual_a exercise_n for_o such_o prayer_n may_v prove_v sincere_a and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n both_o when_o they_o can_v mourn_v and_o also_o when_o their_o heart_n seem_v wither_v hard_a and_o dry_a chap._n xvii_o concern_v the_o convert_n suspicion_n that_o all_o his_o devotion_n be_v but_o lip-labour_n which_o be_v not_o join_v with_o a_o tender_a and_o melt_a heart_n and_o with_o god_n sensible_a approbation_n as_o some_o be_v suspicious_a of_o their_o condition_n because_o of_o their_o ordinar_n tenderness_n and_o melt_a of_o heart_n so_o other_o some_o be_v suspicious_a of_o their_o condition_n because_o they_o find_v not_o their_o heart_n tender_a and_o soft_a in_o their_o devotion_n all_o convert_n do_v agree_v in_o this_o that_o god_n must_v be_v worship_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o that_o it_o be_v not_o acceptable_a worship_n to_o god_n if_o a_o man_n draw_v near_o he_o with_o his_o lip_n when_o his_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o whereupon_o every_o convert_n when_o he_o be_v mindful_a of_o his_o duty_n go_v about_o to_o worship_n god_n with_o understanding_n and_o inward_a affection_n of_o heart_n to_o confess_v sin_n deprecat_fw-la wrath_n ask_v of_o god_n thing_n necessary_a intercede_v for_o other_o give_v thanks_o to_o god_n for_o his_o benefit_n and_o praise_v he_o for_o his_o work_n and_o work_a so_o as_o his_o affection_n may_v be_v conform_a to_o his_o expression_n and_o the_o conscience_n may_v approve_v both_o his_o word_n and_o his_o hearty_a affection_n and_o god_n may_v with_o his_o peace_n and_o consolation_n approve_v the_o worshipper_n but_o some_o convert_n be_v who_o albeit_o in_o sincerity_n they_o worship_v god_n yet_o they_o count_v all_o their_o devotion_n to_o be_v but_o lip-labour_n except_o they_o find_v their_o affection_n waken_v up_o and_o their_o heart_n tender_a and_o some_o vigour_n of_o spiritual_a life_n in_o their_o exercise_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n approbation_n of_o their_o worship_n by_o give_v sense_n of_o his_o peace_n and_o consolation_n to_o they_o in_o their_o worship_n hence_o ofttimes_o do_v suspicion_n arise_v without_o just_a ground_n that_o they_o be_v desert_v of_o god_n that_o he_o be_v displease_v with_o they_o and_o this_o suspicion_n be_v entertain_v do_v send_v forth_o complaint_n and_o bring_v on_o coldrifenesse_n in_o prayer_n and_o discouragement_n 2._o this_o unjust_a suspicion_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o prayer_n the_o lord_n do_v ofttimes_o chastise_v by_o withdraw_a peace_n and_o comfort_n and_o order_n in_o prayer_n and_o of_o word_n also_o that_o he_o who_o complain_v that_o his_o devotion_n be_v but_o lip-labour_n because_o he_o sound_v not_o such_o measure_n of_o affection_n as_o he_o will_v have_v have_v nor_o that_o consolation_n which_o he_o wish_v to_o have_v shall_v find_v himself_o in_o worse_a take_n after_o his_o complain_n than_o he_o be_v in_o at_o first_o when_o he_o begin_v to_o suspect_v his_o condition_n it_o be_v true_a that_o confusion_n of_o mind_n and_o want_v of_o word_n to_o express_v the_o case_n wherein_o he_o be_v may_v fall_v on_o a_o convert_n by_o reason_n of_o affliction_n and_o manifold_a temptation_n and_o yet_o he_o may_v be_v free_a from_o this_o suspicion_n of_o god_n affection_n and_o acceptation_n of_o his_o person_n and_o prayer_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v teach_v we_o rom._n 8._o 26._o likeways_o the_o spirit_n also_o help_v our_o infirmity_n for_o we_o know_v not_o what_o we_o shall_v pray_v for_o as_o we_o ought_v but_o the_o spirit_n itself_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o with_o groan_n which_o can_v be_v utter_v but_o when_o this_o cut_a short_a of_o the_o gift_n of_o prayer_n in_o any_o measure_n do_v follow_v after_o suspicion_n of_o god_n respect_n and_o good_a will_n towards_o the_o complain_n and_o discourage_v convert_n it_o be_v a_o fatherly_a chastisement_n from_o god_n threaten_v the_o convert_n with_o a_o great_a measure_n of_o desertion_n and_o heavy_a temptation_n except_o he_o repent_v his_o folly_n and_o return_n to_o god_n who_o by_o his_o suspicion_n and_o misbelief_n he_o have_v offend_v 3._o for_o remedy_n of_o
these_o two_o help_v one_o another_o and_o therefore_o be_v join_v together_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o joh._n 2._o 16._o all_o that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o pride_n of_o life_n and_o when_o man_n be_v tempt_v by_o their_o own_o lust_n the_o world_n do_v furnish_v object_n allurement_n and_o inducement_n to_o sin_n the_o three_o sort_n be_v the_o tentation_n from_o satan_n who_o beside_o that_o he_o be_v not_o idle_a to_o take_v advantage_n of_o concupiscence_n and_o the_o world_n inducement_n so_o be_v he_o chief_o busy_a to_o throw_v his_o fiery_a dart_n against_o the_o convert_n and_o to_o solicit_v man_n to_o such_o sin_n as_o the_o convert_n do_v most_o detest_v and_o abhor_v as_o for_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o tentation_n from_o god_n they_o be_v ordinary_o by_o affliction_n bodily_a or_o spiritual_a wherein_o ofttimes_o the_o convert_n do_v not_o observe_v the_o lord_n purpose_n and_o will_n reveal_v in_o scripture_n or_o be_v forgetful_a of_o the_o admonition_n and_o consolation_n which_o they_o have_v hear_v from_o scripture_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o afflict_a saint_n heb._n 12._o 5._o and_o so_o they_o be_v more_o vex_v than_o they_o shall_v be_v and_o ps._n 42._o 11._o deject_a and_o disquiet_v and_o do_v suspect_v that_o god_n be_v angry_a with_o they_o and_o with_o the_o way_n they_o walk_v in_o heb._n 12._o 12_o 13._o of_o this_o sickness_n there_o may_v be_v three_o cause_n 1._o the_o bitterness_n of_o affliction_n for_o the_o present_a time_n wherein_o it_o be_v â—elt_v 2._o the_o sense_n of_o bypass_a sin_n which_o the_o afflict_a do_v suspect_v god_n be_v pursue_v and_o make_v hiâ—_n possess_v the_o sin_n of_o his_o youth_n job._n 13._o 26._o the_o three_o be_v the_o observation_n of_o inborn_a corruption_n discover_v unto_o the_o afflict_a much_o more_o than_o in_o prosperity_n 4._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n persuade_v himself_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o in_o all_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n child_n the_o lord_n do_v intend_v the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n bestow_v on_o they_o and_o upon_o this_o consideration_n the_o afflict_a shall_v rejoice_v in_o this_o exercise_n jam._n 1._o 2_o 3._o second_o let_v he_o remember_v that_o with_o the_o trial_n of_o faith_n there_o be_v always_o a_o discovery_n of_o infirmity_n and_o corruption_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o afflict_a as_o in_o the_o purify_n of_o gold_n both_o the_o good_a metal_n and_o the_o dross_n be_v discover_v which_o as_o he_o shall_v acknowledge_v that_o he_o may_v be_v keep_v from_o fret_v so_o must_v he_o still_o remember_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v intend_v the_o trial_n of_o his_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v be_v constant_a in_o believe_v on_o christ_n the_o only_a help_n and_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n three_o in_o whatsoever_o condition_n he_o be_v in_o let_v he_o endeavour_v to_o go_v on_o in_o patience_n experience_n and_o hope_n which_o shall_v never_o make_v he_o ashamed_a for_o this_o do_v the_o lord_n teach_v we_o rom._n 5._o 3_o 4._o and_o jam._n 1._o 4._o as_o for_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o tentation_n from_o the_o concupiscence_n of_o the_o flâ—sh_n and_o from_o the_o world_n allurement_n and_o terror_n let_v the_o convert_v afflict_a follow_v the_o same_o course_n which_o be_v prescribe_v in_o the_o remedy_n of_o the_o tentation_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n as_o for_o the_o three_o sort_n of_o tentation_n which_o be_v from_o the_o devil_n tempt_v man_n to_o atheism_n or_o blasphemy_n or_o despair_v or_o self-murder_n and_o such_o like_a which_o even_o nature_n do_v abhor_v whereof_o something_o be_v speak_v elsewhere_o 1._o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n put_v difference_n between_o the_o devil_n sin_n in_o tempt_v to_o vile_a sin_n and_o his_o own_o seem_v feeble_a resist_v wherein_o albeit_o he_o think_v himself_o pollute_v yet_o his_o not_o yield_v testify_v his_o dissent_v from_o those_o fearful_a sin_n whereunto_o satan_n do_v tempt_v he_o 2._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o consent_n of_o his_o unmortified_a corrupt_a nature_n inclinable_a to_o every_o evil_a from_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o fight_v against_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o hinder_v the_o adversary_n from_o get_v the_o victory_n 3._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n uphold_v he_o in_o the_o conflict_n and_o the_o full_a victory_n against_o the_o messenger_n of_o satan_n buffet_v he_o for_o god_n use_v to_o susspend_v the_o victory_n for_o a_o time_n and_o yet_o make_v his_o grace_n sufficient_o uphold_v his_o soldier_n till_o the_o victory_n be_v give_v as_o paul_n experience_n 2_o cor._n 12._o teach_v we_o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o pleasant_a spectacle_n to_o the_o lord_n to_o look_v upon_o his_o weak_a child_n strive_v against_o the_o flesh_n the_o world_n and_o satan_n and_o stand_v out_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n against_o they_o all_o 4._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o by_o these_o tentation_n of_o satan_n unto_o vile_a sin_n god_n can_v and_o do_v mortify_v sin_n and_o make_v his_o child_n watchful_a and_o strong_a against_o both_o the_o sinful_a inclination_n unto_o these_o and_o all_o other_o sin_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n let_v he_o beware_v of_o a_o more_o sly_a and_o subtle_a tentation_n which_o satan_n use_v to_o slide_v in_o at_o the_o back_n of_o these_o ugly_a and_o gross_a tentation_n which_o be_v this_o when_o he_o have_v press_v with_o all_o violence_n these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o vile_a suggestion_n upon_o the_o convert_n he_o charge_v the_o afflict_a soul_n with_o a_o give_v consent_n unto_o they_o and_o like_o a_o scold_a calumniator_n impudent_o bear_v guiltiness_n upon_o he_o and_o all_o to_o make_v he_o apprehend_v his_o condition_n to_o be_v worse_o than_o it_o be_v and_o to_o suspect_v that_o god_n by_o this_o exercise_n be_v pursue_v he_o in_o wrath_n and_o this_o tentation_n be_v not_o ready_o observe_v by_o the_o afflict_a convert_n but_o yield_v unto_o more_o than_o to_o the_o grosâ—e_a tentation_n therefore_o in_o the_o last_o place_n let_v the_o convert_v guard_n against_o this_o tentation_n which_o brangle_v his_o faith_n and_o lay_v the_o blame_n with_o the_o apostle_n on_o corrupt_a nature_n whatsoever_o guiltiness_n be_v find_v rom._n 7._o 17._o now_o than_o it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o that_o do_v it_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o a_o speech_n beseem_v a_o man_n free_a of_o out-breaking_a and_o prevail_a corruption_n and_o strive_v against_o all_o inward_a motion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o and_o other_o evil_n let_v he_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n lay_v hold_n upon_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o he_o may_v more_o confident_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n reconcile_v in_o christ_n and_o so_o no_o more_o doubt_n of_o god_n good_a will_n to_o he_o notwithstanding_o of_o his_o hard_a exercise_n under_o tentation_n for_o thus_o satan_n shall_v not_o only_o fly_v from_o the_o first_o tentation_n be_v resist_v but_o also_o be_v disappoint_v of_o the_o success_n he_o expect_v in_o question_v the_o covert_n condition_n and_o weaken_n of_o his_o faith_n chap._n xxvii_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n when_o he_o do_v observe_v some_o degree_n of_o god_n desert_v of_o he_o to_o speak_v of_o the_o sort_n and_o degree_n of_o god_n desert_v a_o soul_n require_v a_o large_a treatise_n and_o the_o case_n and_o cure_v thereof_o be_v already_o public_o set_v forth_o by_o a_o learned_a and_o godly_a preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o shall_v suffice_v for_o our_o purpose_n to_o speak_v of_o it_o only_o so_o far_o as_o it_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n when_o he_o apprehend_v himself_o desert_v whether_o the_o desertion_n be_v real_a or_o apparent_a only_a and_o fall_v into_o suspicion_n of_o god_n love_n to_o he_o or_o that_o god_n be_v displease_v with_o he_o because_o he_o find_v not_o such_o lively_a influence_n of_o god_n spirit_n as_o he_o have_v find_v and_o such_o assistance_n of_o his_o gracious_a presence_n as_o he_o do_v expect_v in_o discharge_n of_o religious_a duty_n or_o exercise_n wherein_o divine_a providence_n have_v yoke_v he_o the_o scripture_n and_o daily_a experience_n do_v furnish_v instance_n of_o sad_a complaint_n of_o the_o lord_n hide_v his_o face_n and_o withdraw_a or_o withhold_a of_o light_n or_o peace_n or_o consolation_n or_o strength_n and_o ability_n for_o spiritual_a duty_n etc._n etc._n 2._o for_o remedy_v whereof_o 1._o let_v the_o convert_v remember_v that_o god_n do_v not_o leave_v a_o believer_n flee_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n always_o
renew_v accusation_n against_o they_o and_o so_o order_v that_o mater_fw-la as_o neither_o satan_n shall_v prevail_v nor_o his_o child_n suffer_v damnage_n by_o the_o mean_n for_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o satan_n renew_v of_o accusation_n for_o sin_n forgive_v and_o god_n make_v null_a the_o remission_n grant_v the_o lord_n can_v suffer_v the_o one_o to_o be_v but_o the_o other_o he_o will_v never_o suffer_v to_o be_v for_o when_o a_o true_a convert_n grow_v negligent_a and_o fall_v in_o such_o sin_n after_o conversion_n as_o he_o live_v in_o before_o conversion_n no_o wonder_n satan_n be_v permit_v to_o call_v his_o former_a conversion_n in_o question_n yea_o the_o lord_n may_v just_o cast_v up_o to_o his_o child_n his_o former_a fault_n to_o humble_v he_o and_o shame_n he_o from_o go_v on_o albeit_o he_o do_v not_o disannul_v the_o former_o grant_v remission_n 3_o when_o thanksgiving_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n grant_v for_o christ_n cause_n begin_v to_o cool_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o convert_n what_o wonder_v the_o lord_n not_o only_o suffer_v but_o also_o present_a the_o vileness_n of_o by_o past_a sin_n to_o make_v the_o convert_v sensible_a of_o the_o remission_n and_o to_o cause_v he_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o repentance_n and_o godly_a sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n bypass_a as_o ezek._n 16._o 63._o and_o 36._o 32._o then_o shall_v you_o remember_v your_o own_o evil_a way_n and_o your_o do_n which_o be_v not_o good_a and_o shall_v loathe_v yourselves_o for_o your_o iniquity_n and_o abomination_n when_o the_o convert_n grow_v remiss_a in_o watch_v over_o his_o own_o heart_n &_o way_n and_o be_v in_o danger_n of_o fall_v back_o into_o these_o sin_n which_o he_o have_v repent_v of_o before_o what_o wonder_v the_o lord_n by_o remember_v he_o of_o his_o natural_a inclination_n and_o former_a way_n do_v warn_v he_o of_o his_o danger_n to_o make_v he_o preveen_v his_o fall_n 4._o wherefore_o let_v the_o convert_v maintain_v the_o solidity_n of_o former_a remission_n of_o sin_n and_o make_v good_a use_n of_o his_o former_a sin_n which_o go_v before_o his_o conversion_n and_o let_v he_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o paul_n who_o do_v not_o suffer_v his_o former_a siâ—s_n go_v out_o of_o his_o mind_n but_o do_v renew_v the_o confession_n of_o they_o upon_o all_o occasion_n for_o his_o own_o daily_a humiliation_n for_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o and_o for_o magnify_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o do_v not_o suspect_v the_o remission_n of_o sin_n receive_v for_o by_o this_o mean_v the_o convert_n shall_v preveen_v accusation_n and_o stop_v satan_n mouth_n and_o make_v his_o accusation_n have_v no_o force_n by_o this_o mean_n the_o convert_n shall_v possess_v firm_a and_o stable_a confidence_n of_o god_n unchangeable_a grace_n and_o mercy_n and_o of_o the_o stability_n of_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n grant_v the_o six_o question_n be_v of_o a_o convert_n casten_z not_o only_o in_o a_o uncertainty_n for_o the_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n but_o also_o in_o a_o doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v elect_v or_o not_o and_o know_v not_o how_o to_o do_v in_o this_o case_n some_o convert_v fall_v in_o heman_n the_o ezrait_n his_o exercise_n whereof_o we_o read_v ps._n 88_o especial_o ver_fw-la 14._o 15_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v say_v he_o counsel_n have_v be_v offer_v by_o some_o to_o the_o afflict_a to_o follow_v the_o practice_n and_o experience_n of_o some_o eminent_a theologue_n who_o be_v bring_v to_o such_o strait_n with_o good_a success_n have_v submit_v themselves_o to_o god_n to_o save_v they_o or_o destroy_v they_o as_o he_o please_v after_o which_o submission_n they_o have_v feel_v the_o marvellous_a sweet_a embracement_n of_o god_n love_a kindness_n make_v they_o sure_a both_o of_o their_o conversion_n and_o election_n whether_o to_o follow_v this_o example_n and_o experience_n of_o some_o notable_a saint_n be_v the_o doubt_n wherein_o the_o convert_n be_v not_o clear_a and_o know_v nor_o how_o to_o carry_v himself_o towards_o god_n in_o this_o case_n 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n it_o be_v free_a for_o god_n to_o comfort_v a_o soul_n casten_z down_o when_o and_o how_o he_o please_v it_o be_v free_a for_o god_n to_o pass_v by_o the_o infirmity_n and_o error_n of_o a_o terrify_a soul_n come_v to_o he_o not_o in_o the_o wise_a way_n prescribe_v to_o he_o and_o to_o look_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o man_n consolation_n and_o not_o to_o his_o way_n of_o seek_v of_o it_o but_o howsoever_o it_o please_v god_n to_o comfort_v some_o extraordinary_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o afflict_a to_o come_v with_o such_o a_o unrequire_v submission_n unto_o god_n for_o it_o limit_v the_o lord_n in_o a_o manner_n either_o to_o comfort_v the_o man_n speedy_o or_o suffer_v he_o upon_o apparent_a refusal_n for_o the_o time_n to_o despair_v for_o god_n order_n be_v to_o bring_v the_o sinner_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o deserve_a wrath_n for_o sin_n and_o then_o to_o charge_v he_o to_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o after_o believe_v in_o christ_n to_o seal_v the_o believer_n with_o the_o stamp_n of_o holiness_n and_o the_o earnest-penny_n of_o the_o inheritance_n which_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n shed_v abroad_o in_o his_o heart_n 3._o wherefore_o as_o for_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o man_n straighten_a in_o the_o pain_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n and_o fear_n of_o everlasting_a wrath_n and_o tempt_v to_o suspect_v that_o he_o be_v not_o elect_v it_o be_v a_o more_o safe_a way_n to_o lay_v aside_o all_o disputation_n about_o god_n decree_n because_o secret_a thing_n belong_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o look_v to_o the_o lord_n command_v and_o to_o his_o own_o duty_n of_o fly_v unto_o christ_n so_o for_o the_o recovery_n of_o a_o convert_n fall_v in_o jonahs_n case_n and_o make_v to_o suspect_v that_o he_o be_v a_o reprobat_fw-la cast_v off_o of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o more_o safe_a way_n not_o to_o dispute_v for_o the_o time_n either_o his_o election_n or_o conversion_n whatsoever_o suggestion_n may_v be_v cast_v in_o by_o satan_n then_o to_o offer_v unto_o god_n a_o absolute_a submission_n to_o be_v save_v or_o destroy_v as_o he_o please_v and_o then_o to_o lie_v in_o sorrow_n till_o god_n give_v a_o answer_n of_o consolation_n for_o god_n do_v not_o require_v such_o a_o submission_n but_o call_v for_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n for_o god_n have_v declare_v in_o his_o word_n that_o he_o delight_v not_o in_o the_o death_n of_o a_o sinner_n but_o that_o he_o shall_v repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n and_o be_v save_v second_o in_o this_o submission_n the_o heart_n will_v be_v find_v deceitful_a which_o neither_o will_v nor_o can_v submit_v to_o be_v destroy_v three_o this_o offer_n of_o such_o a_o submission_n as_o this_o be_v lord_n i_o know_v not_o whether_o thou_o have_v choose_v i_o or_o reject_v i_o in_o thy_o decree_n but_o i_o submit_v myself_o to_o thou_o absolute_o if_o thou_o will_v destroy_v i_o thou_o shall_v be_v find_v to_o be_v just_a and_o i_o do_v confess_v so_o much_o unto_o thou_o but_o if_o thou_o will_v save_v i_o i_o shall_v proclaim_v thy_o grace_n such_o a_o submission_n i_o say_v be_v but_o in_o effect_n a_o tempt_a of_o god_n speedy_o to_o reveal_v his_o secret_a counsel_n either_o by_o consolation_n if_o the_o submitter_n be_v a_o elect_a or_o refusal_n of_o consolation_n if_o he_o be_v a_o reprobat_fw-la the_o only_a safe_a way_n in_o the_o foresay_a case_n be_v to_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o fly_v to_o christ_n by_o prayer_n as_o heman_n do_v ps._n 88_o and_o as_o jonah_n do_v who_o choose_v to_o look_v again_o to_o his_o holy_a temple_n where_o the_o mediator_n sit_v upon_o the_o mercy_n seat_n between_o the_o cherubim_v and_o not_o suffer_v such_o a_o thought_n as_o reprobation_n thus_o do_v heman_n ps._n 88_o 13_o 14._o but_o unto_o thou_o have_v i_o cry_v o_o lord_n and_o in_o the_o morning_n shall_v my_o prayer_n prevent_v thou_o lord_n why_o cast_v thou_o off_o my_o soul_n why_o bide_v thou_o thy_o face_n from_o i_o let_v the_o command_n of_o god_n to_o every_o self-condemned_n sinner_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n prevail_v against_o all_o temptation_n to_o the_o contrair_a 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o this_o be_v his_o commandment_n that_o we_o shall_v believe_v on_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ._n the_o seven_o question_n be_v how_o to_o satisfy_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o it_o be_v better_a to_o forbear_v or_o go_v on_o in_o the_o outward_a exercise_n of_o religion_n at_o least_o in_o
to_o invocat_n his_o holy_a name_n for_o the_o right_n use-making_a of_o his_o affliction_n the_o nine_o question_n be_v how_o remission_n of_o sin_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v grant_v in_o respect_n of_o sin_n to_o come_v it_o be_v common_o say_v that_o the_o convert_n in_o his_o justification_n have_v the_o remission_n of_o sin_n bygone_a and_o sin_n to_o come_v whereupon_o the_o question_n be_v move_v how_o this_o can_v stand_v with_o daily_o renew_a remission_n of_o daily_a sin_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n daily_o renew_v remission_n seem_v not_o necessary_a first_o because_o we_o believe_v that_o remission_n of_o all_o sin_n be_v the_o privilege_n of_o all_o believer_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o abridgement_n of_o the_o special_a article_n of_o faith_n set_v down_o in_o the_o apostle_n creed_n as_o it_o be_v call_v hold_v this_o forth_o 2._o because_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o christ_n in_o his_o death_n do_v complete_a the_o payment_n of_o the_o price_n of_o redemption_n from_o all_o sin_n as_o 1_o joh._n 1._o 7._o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n cleanse_v we_o from_o all_o sin_n 3._o we_o be_v say_v to_o be_v not_o under_o the_o law_n but_o under_o grace_n and_o so_o fir_v from_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n 4._o because_o if_o daily_a remission_n of_o sin_n be_v necessary_a to_o be_v grant_v than_o it_o presuppone_n that_o both_o original_a sin_n and_o every_o actual_a sin_n flow_v forth_o from_o it_o daily_o must_v be_v take_v notice_n of_o reckon_v for_o and_o repent_v of_o daily_a which_o be_v impossible_a on_o the_o other_o hand_n the_o convert_n see_v that_o every_o transgression_n of_o and_o disconformity_n to_o the_o law_n be_v sin_n and_o the_o apostle_n 1_o joh._n 1._o 8._o speak_v of_o himself_o and_o other_o convert_v say_v if_o we_o say_v we_o have_v no_o sin_n we_o deceive_v ourselves_o and_o the_o truth_n be_v not_o in_o we_o and_o christ_n have_v teach_v we_o as_o oft_o as_o we_o pray_v for_o our_o daily_a bread_n to_o pray_v also_o for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n the_o question_n be_v how_o the_o doubt_n of_o the_o convert_n may_v be_v clear_v 2._o for_o answer_v we_o must_v grant_v to_o the_o convert_n that_o original_a sin_n remain_v in_o the_o believer_n and_o be_v not_o only_o a_o exceed_a sin_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o rom._n 7._o 13._o but_o also_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o actual_a sin_n which_o do_v pollute_v the_o conscience_n and_o sometime_o also_o the_o outward_a man_n 2._o we_o must_v grant_v also_o that_o there_o can_v be_v a_o actual_a and_o proper_o call_v remission_n of_o sin_n which_o be_v not_o yet_o commit_v for_o no_o man_n be_v guilty_a of_o that_o fault_n wherewith_o he_o can_v be_v charge_v for_o such_o a_o remission_n be_v a_o dispensation_n and_o licence_n to_o sin_n such_o as_o the_o pope_n grant_v to_o his_o slave_n to_o gratify_v they_o in_o allow_v their_o vile_a lust_n for_o enrich_v himself_o with_o the_o price_n of_o that_o iniquity_n 3._o if_o such_o a_o actual_a remission_n of_o sin_n be_v give_v in_o justification_n the_o once_o justify_v person_n can_v never_o become_v a_o daily_a debtor_n by_o his_o daily_a transgression_n contrary_a to_o the_o declaration_n of_o christ_n in_o one_o of_o the_o article_n of_o the_o lord_n prayer_n 3._o for_o solve_v the_o doubt_n then_o we_o must_v distinguish_v the_o signification_n and_o acception_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n for_o 1._o it_o be_v take_v for_o remission_n purchase_v by_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n in_o favour_n of_o the_o elect_a but_o not_o apply_v unto_o the_o elect_a before_o the_o man_n conversion_n heb._n 10._o 12_o 13_o 14._o but_o this_o man_n after_o he_o have_v offer_v one_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n for_o ever_o sit_v down_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n from_o henceforth_o expect_v till_o his_o enemy_n be_v make_v his_o footstool_n for_o by_o one_o offering_n he_o have_v perfect_v for_o ever_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v 2._o it_o be_v take_v for_o remission_n promise_v by_o christ_n to_o all_o that_o shall_v believe_v in_o he_o to_o be_v bestow_v on_o they_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o shall_v turn_v to_o he_o act._n 26._o 18._o three_o it_o be_v take_v for_o the_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n judicial_o apply_v and_o adjudge_v to_o the_o actual_a believer_n eph._n 1._o 7._o in_o who_o we_o have_v redemption_n through_o his_o blood_n the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n according_a to_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n 4._o for_o the_o actual_a remission_n of_o all_o sin_n pass_v before_o his_o conversion_n rom._n 3._o 25._o who_o god_n have_v set_v forth_o to_o be_v a_o propitiation_n through_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n to_o declare_v his_o righteousness_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v past_a through_o the_o forbearance_n of_o god_n 5._o for_o a_o constant_a right_n to_o daily_a remission_n of_o sin_n and_o access_n to_o the_o fountain_n open_v up_o in_o the_o house_n of_o david_n that_o be_v to_o all_o the_o child_n of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n zech._n 13._o 1._o in_o that_o day_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o fountain_n open_v to_o the_o house_n of_o david_n and_o to_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o jerusalem_n for_o sin_n and_o for_o uncleanness_n 4._o so_o then_o the_o convert_n have_v first_o the_o actual_a remission_n of_o all_o sin_n precede_v his_o conversion_n and_o withal_o his_o state_n change_v from_o be_v a_o child_n of_o satan_n to_o be_v a_o child_n of_o god_n second_o he_o have_v right_a unto_o daily_a remission_n of_o sin_n as_o they_o fall_v out_o after_o conversion_n for_o christ_n speak_v of_o the_o remission_n have_v in_o the_o time_n of_o conversion_n call_v it_o a_o wash_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n joh._n 13._o 10_o he_o that_o be_v washen_n need_v not_o to_o wash_v save_v his_o foot_n but_o be_v whole_o clean_a to_o wit_n for_o the_o state_n of_o his_o person_n accept_v in_o christ_n and_o for_o the_o application_n of_o his_o right_n unto_o daily_a remission_n christ_n teach_v all_o his_o disciple_n daily_o to_o pray_v for_o it_o which_o christ_n call_v the_o wash_n of_o the_o believer_n foot_n joh._n 13._o 10._o 5._o for_o answer_v to_o the_o objection_n make_v against_o the_o necessity_n of_o daily_a renew_a remission_n of_o sin_n let_v it_o be_v remember_v that_o the_o article_n of_o our_o creed_n be_v so_o far_o from_o make_v daily_a remission_n of_o sin_n not_o necessary_a that_o of_o necessity_n it_o must_v be_v extend_v not_o only_o to_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n pass_v before_o conversion_n but_o also_o to_o the_o right_n make_v unto_o we_o for_o daily_a remission_n of_o the_o sin_n which_o run_v daily_o from_o the_o relic_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n not_o full_o mortify_v for_o otherways_o the_o believer_n can_v not_o have_v quiet_a consolation_n in_o the_o daily_a exercise_n of_o renew_a repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ._n 2._o as_o to_o the_o second_o objection_n concern_v the_o perfect_a purchase_n make_v by_o christ_n of_o remission_n bypass_a and_o to_o come_v it_o do_v prove_v indeed_o that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n nor_o price_n of_o redemption_n from_o sin_n save_v that_o which_o be_v complete_v on_o the_o cross_n but_o it_o do_v not_o prove_v that_o we_o must_v only_o once_o make_v application_n of_o this_o purchase_n for_o christ_n keep_v the_o full_a purchase_n in_o his_o own_o hand_n and_o do_v let_v forth_o the_o application_n thereof_o as_o we_o stand_v in_o need_n in_o his_o own_o order_n and_o by_o degree_n till_o he_o perfect_v we_o in_o sanctification_n and_o glorification_n also_o 6._o as_o for_o the_o three_o objection_n we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o when_o we_o be_v loose_v from_o the_o law_n as_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n we_o be_v loose_v also_o from_o the_o command_n of_o the_o law_n for_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n prescribe_v in_o the_o law_n be_v posterior_n both_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n and_o time_n to_o the_o natural_a writing_n of_o the_o law_n in_o man_n heart_n rom._n 2._o 15._o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n of_o work_n be_v take_v off_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o law_n to_o direct_v and_o command_v all_o moral_a duty_n do_v remain_v and_o can_v no_o more_o be_v dissolve_v than_o the_o obligation_n of_o the_o reasonable_a creature_n to_o be_v obedient_a to_o the_o creator_n can_v be_v abolish_v and_o therefore_o when_o the_o believer_n fall_v in_o a_o transgression_n he_o merit_v death_n and_o destruction_n as_o the_o wage_n of_o sin_n but_o christ_n our_o advocate_n who_o live_v for_o ever_o to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o hold_v off_o the_o execution_n of_o deserve_a wrath_n and_o give_v to_o the_o believer_n the_o grace_n of_o renew_a repentance_n
five_o qualification_n be_v common_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o effect_n of_o save_a faith_n not_o as_o yet_o manifest_v to_o be_v such_o before_o the_o person_n do_v close_a covenant_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o not_o impute_v his_o sin_n unto_o he_o and_o make_v solid_a reconciliation_n with_o he_o 3._o as_o for_o judge_v of_o other_o when_o we_o observe_v these_o qualification_n all_o or_o some_o of_o they_o we_o must_v not_o determine_v positive_o what_o sort_n of_o operation_n the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v in_o hand_n but_o our_o part_n be_v according_a to_o our_o place_n and_o calling_n to_o help_v on_o the_o least_o preparatory_a qualification_n which_o may_v serve_v to_o be_v inductive_a and_o serviceable_a to_o beget_v and_o foster_v save_v faith_n in_o they_o even_o when_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n be_v like_a to_o drive_v they_o from_o christ_n as_o it_o do_v peter_n when_o he_o cry_v out_o unto_o christ_n depart_v from_o i_o o_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n for_o god_n have_v not_o make_v we_o judge_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o this_o or_o that_o person_n but_o to_o be_v their_o helper_n unto_o faith_n when_o we_o perceive_v any_o good_a qualification_n in_o they_o and_o helper_n of_o their_o repentance_n when_o we_o perceive_v any_o out-breaking_a evil_n in_o they_o the_o eleven_o question_n shall_v be_v of_o the_o convert_v doubt_v what_o to_o think_v of_o his_o condition_n when_o he_o find_v more_o freedom_n of_o prayer_n in_o the_o presence_n and_o audience_n of_o other_o then_o when_o he_o pray_v in_o secret_a alone_o it_o be_v not_o a_o case_n unusual_a that_o some_o convert_n do_v find_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o freedom_n of_o prayer_n in_o the_o audience_n of_o other_o more_o than_o alone_o for_o they_o have_v experience_n that_o when_o they_o pray_v in_o the_o audience_n of_o other_o in_o their_o family_n or_o occasional_o elsewhere_o their_o prayer_n be_v more_o copious_a than_o when_o they_o be_v alone_o their_o stile_n of_o speech_n more_o polish_v their_o word_n in_o better_a order_n their_o expression_n more_o significant_a their_o notion_n more_o sublime_a more_o fervent_a more_o zealous_a then_o when_o they_o be_v in_o secret_a in_o their_o closet_n which_o difference_n when_o they_o consider_v they_o doubt_v what_o the_o matter_n do_v mean_v 2._o for_o answer_v first_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n to_o be_v put_v between_o solitary_a prayer_n in_o secret_a and_o prayer_n in_o society_n with_o other_o for_o in_o secret_a ofttimes_o the_o convert_v worship_n be_v carry_v on_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sinfulness_n unworthiness_n and_o indisposition_n present_v to_o god_n through_o christ_n with_o sigh_n and_o confuse_a groan_n without_o word_n for_o he_o study_v most_o for_o affection_n and_o not_o for_o word_n have_v no_o ear_n to_o care_n for_o but_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o searcher_n of_o heart_n who_o know_v his_o weakness_n fear_n tentation_n and_o wrestle_n with_o doubt_n but_o in_o company_n he_o study_v most_o to_o make_v use_n of_o knowledge_n and_o to_o express_v himself_o so_o as_o he_o may_v carry_v along_o the_o company_n with_o who_o he_o pray_v with_o consent_n that_o he_o may_v edify_v himself_o and_o they_o in_o worship_n and_o in_o this_o case_n he_o may_v find_v great_a freedom_n possible_o then_o he_o find_v alone_o in_o secret_a second_o it_o be_v ofttimes_o find_v that_o god_n for_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o the_o mutual_a edification_n of_o two_o or_o three_o gather_v together_o in_o his_o name_n do_v enlarge_v the_o freedom_n of_o speech_n in_o the_o speaker_n upon_o which_o consideration_n the_o doubt_a convert_n may_v satisfy_v himself_o only_o let_v he_o beware_v least_o vain_a glory_n or_o study_v to_o have_v the_o applause_n of_o such_o as_o hear_v he_o pray_v do_v not_o blow_v wind_n in_o his_o sail_n and_o in_o as_o far_o as_o after_o examination_n he_o find_v himself_o guilty_a let_v he_o when_o he_o be_v in_o secret_a alone_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n for_o it_o and_o crave_v pardon_n through_o christ_n seek_v help_n and_o heal_n of_o this_o wicked_a inclination_n the_o twelve_o question_n shall_v be_v of_o the_o doubt_n which_o the_o convert_n may_v have_v in_o a_o case_n contrary_a to_o the_o former_a some_o convert_n do_v find_v themselves_o more_o enlarge_v in_o secret_a prayer_n and_o alone_a then_o in_o the_o company_n of_o one_o or_o more_o in_o company_n say_v he_o i_o can_v utter_v my_o own_o private_a condition_n without_o a_o needless_a and_o inconvenient_a discovery_n of_o my_o present_a case_n to_o other_o and_o i_o can_v hardly_o conjecture_v what_o may_v be_v their_o necessity_n with_o who_o i_o pray_v or_o condescend_v upon_o petition_n and_o thanksgiving_n fit_a for_o we_o in_o common_a i_o be_o take_v up_o also_o with_o thought_n of_o what_o estimation_n my_o hearer_n may_v have_v of_o i_o etc._n etc._n but_o in_o secret_a prayer_n i_o be_o free_v of_o that_o care_n i_o be_o not_o fear_v that_o god_n shall_v misconstrue_v my_o word_n or_o thought_n i_o may_v in_o secret_a make_v a_o long_a pause_n in_o my_o petition_n and_o fall_v in_o meditation_n upon_o some_o passage_n of_o scripture_n and_o after_o a_o while_n direct_v my_o speech_n unto_o the_o lord_n i_o may_v express_v my_o affection_n by_o voice_n and_o gesture_n as_o they_o fall_v out_o and_o pour_v forth_o my_o heart_n to_o god_n with_o tear_n without_o fear_n of_o be_v esteem_v a_o hypocrite_n etc._n etc._n mean_a time_n i_o doubt_v what_o my_o indisposition_n to_o pray_v in_o company_n do_v import_v when_o duty_n call_v for_o it_o 2._o for_o answer_v we_o grant_v that_o god_n to_o some_o of_o his_o dear_a saint_n who_o prayer_n in_o secret_a he_o will_v accept_v and_o reward_v open_o have_v not_o give_v ability_n to_o edify_v other_o by_o way_n of_o pray_v in_o their_o audience_n too_o other_o in_o regard_n of_o age_n of_o sex_n to_o who_o modesty_n and_o silence_n be_v most_o suitable_a he_o have_v not_o give_v confidence_n to_o pray_v in_o name_n of_o other_o whether_o more_o or_o few_o as_o their_o mouth_n but_o as_o for_o these_o to_o who_o god_n have_v give_v ability_n and_o a_o calling_n by_o reason_n of_o a_o charge_n in_o the_o family_n or_o some_o occasional_a exigence_n to_o pray_v in_o the_o audience_n of_o other_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o they_o do_v foster_v their_o natural_a averseness_n from_o such_o a_o duty_n they_o have_v need_v to_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v hinder_v by_o fear_n to_o loss_n some_o of_o their_o estimation_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o hearer_n if_o possible_o all_o thing_n shall_v not_o be_v find_v so_o well_o digest_v and_o express_v in_o the_o prayer_n as_o they_o will_v the_o thirteen_o question_n shall_v be_v of_o the_o convert_v doubt_v what_o to_o think_v when_o he_o compare_v his_o disposition_n to_o prayer_n and_o god_n dispensation_n towards_o he_o in_o prayer_n sundry_a convert_n when_o they_o compare_v their_o own_o divers_a disposition_n to_o prayer_n with_o the_o divers_a dispensation_n of_o god_n towards_o they_o in_o prayer_n they_o be_v at_o a_o stand_v what_o to_o think_v sometime_o say_v one_o albeit_o i_o be_v very_o hardly_o draw_v to_o pray_v at_o all_o yet_o when_o after_o wrestle_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o duty_n do_v set_v i_o on_o work_n my_o prayer_n go_v on_o as_o i_o can_v wish_v light_n be_v furnish_v to_o i_o what_o to_o confess_v what_o to_o thank_v for_o what_o to_o seek_v both_o for_o myself_o and_o other_o whereby_o i_o gather_v for_o the_o time_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v please_v with_o my_o person_n in_o christ_n and_o have_v accept_v my_o prayer_n sometime_o it_o fare_v otherways_o with_o i_o for_o when_o time_n place_n and_o leisure_n for_o prayer_n concur_v and_o i_o be_o now_o about_o to_o make_v use_n of_o opportunity_n and_o do_v fall_v down_o before_o the_o lord_n to_o speak_v on_o a_o sudden_a i_o have_v nothing_o to_o say_v matter_n word_n and_o light_n do_v fail_v i_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n fall_v on_o my_o mind_n and_o my_o prayer_n suudry_n time_n be_v stop_v and_o close_v with_o a_o sigh_n or_o groan_v which_o disposition_n of_o my_o heart_n and_o dispensation_n of_o the_o lord_n when_o i_o compare_v i_o be_o in_o doubt_n what_o to_o think_v 2._o for_o answer_v in_o the_o first_o case_n concern_v the_o lord_n blessing_n of_o the_o aim_v at_o duty_n the_o matter_n be_v clear_a and_o speak_v for_o itself_o for_o god_n will_v have_v we_o to_o aim_v at_o a_o right_a frame_n of_o spirit_n when_o we_o be_v about_o the_o discharge_n of_o any_o part_n of_o his_o worship_n but_o not_o forbear_v to_o do_v the_o duty_n if_o we_o can_v reach_v that_o fitness_n of_o spirit_n which_o we_o desire_v let_v we_o
conclusion_n draw_v therefrom_o and_o by_o holy_a reason_n tie_v themselves_o to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o word_n of_o god_n rom._n 6._o 11._o likeways_o say_v he_o by_o reason_v reckon_v you_o yourselves_o to_o be_v deal_n unto_o sin_n but_o alive_a unto_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n and_o give_v a_o example_n of_o this_o reason_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 14._o 15._o the_o love_n of_o god_n constrain_v we_o because_o we_o thus_o judge_v etc._n etc._n 11._o because_o the_o lord_n divers_a way_n according_a to_o his_o own_o wisdom_n exercise_v man_n that_o sometime_o by_o his_o long-suffering_a patience_n he_o lead_v they_o unto_o repentance_n sometime_o also_o by_o his_o word_n and_o rod_n he_o do_v drive_v they_o thereunto_o therefore_o let_v the_o use_n of_o all_o exercise_n all_o temptation_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o use_n of_o all_o benefit_n and_o divine_a dispensation_n of_o providence_n be_v careful_o make_v use_n of_o that_o man_n may_v so_o look_v upon_o god_n bounty_n and_o long-suffering_a on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o upon_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n as_o they_o may_v be_v lead_v and_o constrain_v in_o love_n to_o seek_v after_o so_o gracious_a a_o god_n and_o to_o flee_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n mourn_v for_o their_o provoke_v of_o justice_n so_o oft_o against_o themselves_o and_o in_o whatsoever_o condition_n of_o prosperity_n or_o adversity_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o god_n however_o he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o dispose_v of_o they_o 12._o the_o doctrine_n of_o reprobation_n must_v not_o be_v determinate_o apply_v to_o any_o particular_a person_n how_o wicked_a soever_o he_o shall_v for_o the_o present_a appear_v neither_o must_v the_o suspicion_n which_o any_o man_n may_v have_v of_o his_o own_o reprobation_n be_v â—ostered_v because_o particular_a reprobation_n of_o this_o or_o that_o person_n be_v among_o the_o secret_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o to_o be_v meddle_v with_o whereof_o a_o man_n may_v not_o give_v out_o sentence_n before_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v his_o own_o decree_n but_o on_o the_o contrair_a all_o the_o hearer_n must_v be_v warn_v and_o press_v to_o be_v wary_a to_o entertain_v any_o hostile_a thought_n of_o god_n or_o to_o foster_v suspicion_n of_o he_o as_o implacable_a but_o rather_o think_v of_o he_o as_o their_o faithful_a creator_n just_o indeed_o yet_o merciful_a long-suffering_a and_o bountiful_a both_o to_o the_o kind_n and_o the_o un-kind_n as_o they_o shall_v find_v if_o they_o will_v seek_v he_o for_o satan_n will_v press_v this_o temptation_n hard_a enough_o and_o foster_v the_o suspicion_n which_o he_o have_v suggest_v against_o god_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o they_o who_o god_n have_v afflict_v albeit_o he_o get_v no_o assistance_n by_o any_o imprudent_a and_o un-just_a application_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n unto_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a person_n to_o conclude_v their_o reprobation_n 13._o the_o scope_n of_o all_o doctrine_n must_v be_v this_o that_o sinner_n may_v be_v humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o unrighteousness_n indigence_n infirmity_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o be_v humble_v may_v be_v lead_v unto_o christ_n believe_v in_o he_o and_o be_v more_o and_o more_o glue_v unto_o he_o and_o grow_v in_o the_o love_n of_o he_o and_o rest_v their_o soul_n upon_o he_o as_o god_n one_o with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n endeavour_v according_a to_o their_o vocation_n to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n in_o themselves_o and_o other_o and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v neither_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n his_o incarnation_n nor_o humiliation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n wherein_o he_o be_v in_o pay_v the_o promise_a price_n of_o our_o redemption_n derogat_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o estimation_n of_o his_o person_n who_o be_v one_o god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n god_n over_o all_o bless_a for_o ever_o nor_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n his_o majesty_n make_v sinner_n stand_v off_o or_o be_v afraid_a to_o make_v their_o address_n to_o he_o but_o by_o the_o contrair_a that_o the_o personal_a union_n of_o the_o divine_a and_o humane_a nature_n in_o he_o and_o his_o clothing_n himself_o with_o the_o office_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n may_v allure_v all_o sinner_n who_o hear_v of_o he_o to_o come_v to_o he_o as_o mediator_a who_o will_v not_o deal_v with_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o he_o as_o a_o judge_n against_o they_o but_o as_o a_o advocate_n surety_n and_o intercessor_n for_o they_o and_o who_o will_v save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a every_o one_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o heb._n 7._o 25._o 14._o for_o trial_n of_o a_o man_n regeneration_n and_o come_v right_o to_o christ_n and_o grow_v in_o grace_n the_o exercise_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n be_v necessary_o require_v to_o wit_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o the_o entertain_n in_o himself_o of_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o natural_a sinfulness_n and_o infirmity_n to_o do_v good_a and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o inherent_a corruption_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v make_v more_o and_o more_o to_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o himself_o and_o walk_v humble_o before_o god_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n or_o the_o daily_o renew_v employ_v of_o christ_n for_o grace_n and_o actual_a help_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o his_o case_n require_v 3._o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n or_o the_o endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n flow_v from_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o neighbour_n through_o christ._n chap._n ix_o of_o the_o more_o special_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n for_o remove_v the_o impediment_n of_o regeneration_n we_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o prudent_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n in_o general_a it_o follow_v that_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n more_o special_o some_o of_o these_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o hinder_v regeneration_n that_o it_o be_v not_o wrought_v at_o all_o whereof_o we_o shall_v speak_v god_n willing_a in_o the_o rest_n of_o this_o first_o book_n other_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o obscure_v the_o work_n of_o regeneration_n begin_v and_o to_o foster_v question_n in_o the_o regenerate_a man_n and_o make_v he_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v or_o not_o or_o whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v somewhat_o in_o the_o second_o book_n and_o last_o of_o all_o some_o case_n and_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n do_v tend_v towards_o the_o deceive_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n about_o his_o present_a condition_n wherein_o he_o be_v without_o call_v his_o state_n in_o question_n at_o the_o first_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o three_o book_n 2._o as_o for_o the_o first_o sort_n these_o case_n which_o impede_fw-la and_o altogether_o mar_v regeneration_n can_v easy_o be_v number_v because_o of_o the_o multitude_n of_o deceit_n whereby_o the_o unregenerat_a be_v delude_v but_o it_o shall_v suffice_v for_o our_o purpose_n to_o name_v some_o of_o they_o only_o for_o example_n cause_n in_o handle_v whereof_o the_o way_n of_o cure_v other_o like_a case_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o handle_v of_o these_o case_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v we_o shall_v follow_v any_o exact_a method_n or_o accurate_a distinction_n of_o one_o case_n from_o another_o partly_o because_o many_o fault_n may_v be_v various_o interweave_v one_o with_o another_o partly_o because_o in_o all_o these_o case_n the_o same_o fault_n be_v find_v after_o divers_a way_n to_o put_v forth_o their_o poison_n we_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v follow_v the_o easy_a course_n shall_v divide_v all_o unregenerat_a man_n impede_v their_o own_o regeneration_n in_o three_o rank_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o eshew_v so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n lest_o it_o shall_v pronounce_v sentence_n of_o their_o state_n and_o disquiet_v they_o the_o second_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o do_v judge_v themselves_o indeed_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o after_o examination_n do_v despair_n of_o any_o remedy_n the_o three_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o make_v a_o slight_a examination_n of_o themselves_o and_o upon_o some_o slight_a pretence_n give_v our_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n of_o themselves_o which_o god_n will_v not_o allow_v 3._o as_o to_o the_o first_o rank_n to_o wit_n of_o those_o that_o eshew_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n we_o shall_v name_v only_o seven_o sickness_n or_o impediment_n hinder_v their_o self-examination_n and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o themselves_o the_o first_o be_v gross_a ignorance_n of_o their_o natural_a sin_n and_o misery_n and_o of_o deliverance_n to_o be_v have_v through_o christ_n
and_o of_o the_o duty_n require_v of_o they_o that_o be_v deliver_v by_o christ._n the_o second_o be_v a_o false_a religion_n or_o damnable_a error_n in_o judgement_n about_o the_o matter_n of_o salvation_n and_o god_n worship_n in_o which_o error_n so_o long_o as_o a_o sinner_n do_v lie_v he_o can_v be_v humble_v for_o the_o damnable_a course_n he_o be_v in_o or_o put_v question_n about_o his_o way_n the_o three_o be_v dissemble_v unbelief_n and_o atheism_n cover_v over_o with_o gross_a hypocrisy_n which_o under_o hand_n do_v reject_v the_o rule_n of_o examination_n the_o four_o be_v the_o brutish_a stupidity_n of_o the_o cauterised_a conscience_n the_o five_o be_v a_o vain_a pretence_n of_o fear_n to_o examine_v themselves_o lest_o it_o drive_v they_o to_o desperation_n the_o six_o be_v a_o lazy_a delay_n of_o examination_n from_o day_n to_o day_n the_o seven_o be_v immoderate_a care_n for_o thing_n of_o this_o life_n 4._o concern_v all_o these_o impediment_n hinder_v self-examination_n these_o three_o thing_n be_v observable_a in_o general_n 1._o albeit_o all_o or_o some_o of_o these_o evil_n may_v fall_v upon_o the_o reprobat_fw-la yet_o be_v they_o not_o their_o proper_a malady_n for_o some_o of_o the_o elect_a before_o their_o regeneration_n may_v lie_v for_o a_o time_n under_o one_o or_o more_o of_o these_o evil_n wherefore_o the_o pastor_n hope_v the_o best_a of_o all_o because_o he_o know_v not_o the_o mark_n of_o reprobation_n must_v deal_v with_o all_o his_o hearer_n to_o guard_v they_o against_o all_o these_o evil_n that_o the_o elect_v who_o god_n will_v bless_v with_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o his_o command_n may_v be_v save_v second_o we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o a_o voluntary_a examination_n of_o the_o conscience_n whereunto_o the_o godly_a do_v in_o their_o best_a condition_n set_v themselves_o daily_o and_o a_o force_a examination_n and_o wakn_n up_o of_o the_o conscience_n whether_o the_o sinner_n will_v or_o not_o this_o sort_n of_o examination_n may_v come_v either_o by_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n a_o example_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o â—elix_fw-la the_o governor_n who_o at_o the_o hear_n paul_n discourse_n of_o virtue_n and_o vice_n fall_v a_o tremble_a act._n 24._o 25._o or_o this_o waken_n of_o the_o conscience_n may_v come_v by_o affliction_n whereof_o we_o have_v a_o example_n of_o ioseph_n brethren_n who_o conscience_n do_v lie_v sleep_v secure_o under_o the_o guilt_n of_o distress_v their_o brother_n joseph_n but_o by_o affliction_n at_o length_n be_v waken_v gen._n 42._o 21._o the_o pastor_n part_n here_o be_v not_o only_o to_o exhort_v man_n to_o a_o voluntair_n examination_n of_o themselves_o but_o also_o by_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v labour_v to_o open_v the_o apostum_n of_o proud_a sinner_n discover_v unto_o they_o as_o occasion_n serve_v their_o wickedness_n and_o denounce_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n against_o they_o if_o possible_o the_o lord_n shall_v give_v they_o repentance_n as_o he_o do_v to_o the_o hearer_n of_o peter_n act._n 2._o 37._o three_o let_v not_o a_o preacher_n be_v too_o solicit_v and_o anxious_a about_o the_o success_n of_o his_o labour_n when_o he_o have_v to_o do_v with_o obstinate_a sinner_n who_o conscience_n can_v be_v waken_v neither_o by_o challenge_n nor_o threaten_n nor_o exhortation_n but_o after_o he_o have_v use_v mean_n public_o and_o private_o let_v he_o commit_v the_o mater_fw-la unto_o god_n who_o will_v have_v mercy_n on_o who_o he_o will_v have_v mercy_n and_o who_o he_o will_v he_o harden_v it_o may_v suffice_v he_o that_o all_o christ_n sheep_n will_v at_o length_n hear_v his_o voice_n only_o let_v not_o the_o pastor_n despair_v utter_o of_o any_o man_n but_o even_o towards_o those_o that_o be_v excommunicate_a let_v he_o follow_v such_o a_o course_n as_o may_v reduce_v they_o unto_o repentance_n as_o the_o apostle_n give_v direction_n 2_o thess._n 3_o 14_o 15._o for_o remove_v of_o the_o first_o impediment_n of_o self-examination_n but_o that_o we_o may_v speak_v more_o particular_o of_o the_o cure_n of_o these_o seven_o evil_a disease_n for_o remove_v of_o the_o first_o impediment_n to_o wit_n gross_a ignorance_n it_o be_v not_o needful_a to_o say_v much_o of_o catechetick_a instruction_n see_v in_o all_o church_n it_o be_v presuppose_v there_o be_v some_o form_n of_o a_o catechise_v wherein_o the_o rudiment_n of_o save_a knowledge_n be_v set_v down_o by_o way_n of_o question_n and_o answer_v for_o the_o use_n of_o child_n and_o of_o the_o rude_a sort_n come_v to_o year_n only_o we_o offer_v to_o those_o that_o intend_v the_o holy_a ministry_n this_o overture_n for_o dispose_v and_o prepare_v people_n for_o a_o more_o easy_a up-taking_a of_o some_o form_v catechise_v because_o most_o part_n of_o form_v catechises_n be_v somewhat_o large_a than_o they_o can_v be_v read_v at_o one_o time_n or_o be_v read_v can_v be_v explicat_fw-la any_o other_o way_n then_o by_o parcel_n so_o many_o question_n and_o answer_n at_o one_o time_n and_o so_o many_o at_o another_o time_n which_o how_o hardly_o it_o can_v be_v all_o explicat_fw-la to_o the_o whole_a congregation_n in_o a_o long_a time_n experience_n may_v bear_v witness_n therefore_o it_o may_v serve_v to_o good_a purpose_n if_o so_o many_o of_o the_o rude_a and_o ignorant_a sort_n as_o may_v well_o be_v gather_v together_o into_o one_o place_n at_o one_o time_n the_o pastor_n shall_v profess_v before_o they_o all_o that_o he_o purpose_v to_o hold_v forth_o unto_o they_o a_o short_a sum_n of_o save_a doctrine_n in_o six_o or_o seven_o head_n of_o doctrine_n so_o that_o in_o the_o space_n of_o a_o hour_n or_o thereby_o before_o they_o dissolve_v their_o meeting_n they_o may_v if_o they_o be_v attentive_a and_o willing_a to_o learn_v have_v some_o measure_n of_o find_a light_n and_o understanding_n of_o the_o ground_n of_o true_a religion_n after_o which_o preface_n use_v let_v he_o so_o short_o or_o plain_o as_o he_o be_v able_a speak_v something_o first_o of_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n by_o god_n the_o father_n god_n the_o son_n and_o god_n the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o only_a one_o true_a god_n in_o three_o person_n and_o something_o also_o of_o the_o creation_n of_o adam_n and_o eve_n our_o first_o parent_n according_a to_o god_n image_n in_o wisdom_n holiness_n and_o happiness_n and_o something_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n make_v between_o god_n and_o they_o including_z their_o posterity_n the_o sum_n of_o which_o covenant_n be_v this_o do_v this_o and_o live_v but_o if_o thou_o sin_n thou_o shall_v die_v second_o let_v he_o speak_v somewhat_o of_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n by_o our_o first_o parent_n in_o who_o loin_n we_o be_v all_o make_v guilty_a of_o death_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o that_o covenant_n three_o let_v he_o speak_v of_o the_o remedy_n provide_v in_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n before_o time_n but_o reveal_v timous_o after_o the_o fall_n of_o our_o first_o parent_n to_o wit_n the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n between_o god_n and_o god_n the_o son_n design_v mediator_n christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n the_o sum_n whereof_o be_v gen._n 3._o 15._o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v tread_v down_o the_o head_n of_o the_o serpent_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v to_o say_v it_o be_v agree_v in_o the_o counsel_n of_o god_n that_o the_o second_o person_n shall_v be_v bear_v of_o a_o woman_n and_o suffer_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o elect_a and_o destroy_v sin_n and_o death_n the_o work_n of_o the_o devil_n four_o let_v he_o speak_v of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n between_o god_n and_o believer_n in_o christ_n the_o sum_n whereof_o be_v this_o whosoever_o do_v acknowledge_v their_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v eternal_a life_n five_o let_v he_o speak_v of_o the_o two_o seal_n of_o this_o covenant_n to_o wit_n baptism_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n whereby_o the_o covenant_n with_o the_o benefit_n hold_v out_o therein_o to_o all_o believer_n be_v seal_v six_o let_v he_o speak_v of_o the_o necessity_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n and_o bring_v forth_o of_o good_a work_n for_o glorify_v god_n and_o probation_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o â—aith_n last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o speak_v of_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n when_o christ_n shall_v come_v in_o the_o cloud_n and_o perfect_a to_o all_o his_o elect_a and_o believer_n in_o he_o all_o his_o promise_n of_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n and_o cast_v all_o the_o wicked_a and_o unreconciled_a into_o the_o fire_n of_o hell_n the_o same_o course_n may_v be_v take_v with_o rude_a ignorant_o in_o private_a who_o conscience_n be_v waken_v with_o terror_n after_o that_o about_o the_o space_n of_o a_o hour_n