never their ruine but an outgate was oft brought about in a way they could not have expected yea the Lords shutting all other doores upon them hath been that he might open one himselfe like Hagars wel springing up in the wildernes 9. That in making this their aime when they had a large heart for God they have not then wanted an opportunity for evidencing the same their encouragement hath abounded with their duty and they have got much in in giving much out for Christ that there was no such feast in the world as they have sensibly found in the testimony of a good conscience EIGHT Instance is that promise which is held forth to the Christian in the word of strength and assistance to go about duties Is 40 29 30 31. Ps 18 6 14. Ps 84 5. Ps 68 28. To clear this that it hath an unquestionable performance I attest the experience of the generation of the righteous who ever knew what it was to serve the Lord in the spirit who by many sensible confirmations have not proven the certainty of these things First that when they have gone about duty under much deadnes and straitnes of spirit they have found a very sensible enlargement and got their bonds loused which surely they could no moe command without the concurrence of divine help something above nature then these who spread out the â—ail can command a fair wind when it is crosse 2. That Gods help and concurrence was never more discernable carrying them through and making them strong then in the day that to their own sense they were most weak when they have gone about duty under greatest feares and fainting in spirit 3. That when they had most confidence in themselves and judged they were at greatest advantage in their going about some duty they have usually had the saddest retreat and found that a sure truth the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong 4. They knew well what an influence divine concurrencâ— hath not only upon their inward frame but also upon the exercise of their gifts yea upon the commonest abilites of judgement and memory and that there is a most remarkable difference betwixt themselves at one time and an other according to the blowing of this wind 5. They must also witness this as their experience they found duty never more easy to them then when they have had most to doe and were keeped throngest therein yea when much work was laid to their hand they then wanted not an enlarged allowance for the same 6. That their fpirits have been fitted for duty and carried through difficulties where at some other time and in an other frame they would have fainted and thereby seen that none needs to scarr at piece of duty when God calleth them to it for while difficulties have appeared greatest at first the lesse they have found them afterward yea the hardest piece of service oft made most easy 7. They finde God doth raise the spirit of his followers with a suitable elevation for their work and can fit them for the service of that time and other tryals thereof even beyond their ordinary reach 8. That there is an open doore and sensible assistance when there hath been work for the Gospel in such a place while on the other hand they have found an inhibition sensibly served on them the doore as it were shut when the tide was going back and the work of the Gospel at a stand in such a part 9. That it is not greatest abilities which make undertakings succesful it being in vain to rise up early without the Lord. 10. It hath oft been their experience that in following the way of God his candle did then shine upon their paths the Spirit of the Lord was with them and sensibly let out the withdrawing wheteof hath been no lesse discernable while they turned aside from him that they have then been put to bear the burthen alone and found difficulty and despondency of spirit at once growing upon their hand 11. I may adde what these who are serious in Religion have oft tryed that there is no such help and furniture for going about duties as a spiritual frame and nearnes with God for then light and counsel inward freedome and sweet composure of spirit have brought most sensible advantage to them in their greatest yea and in their most common undertakings this hath been very evident NINTH Instance Is that great promise we have Rom. 8 ver 28. that all things shall work together for good to them who love God and Psal 25 ver 10. all the pathes of the Lord are mercy and truth to such as keep his Covenant I confesse it is not easy sometimes to reconcile Gods way and this piece of his Word together these who take only an ordinary passing look of providence cannot well judge how such things wherewith oft the godly in their life are trysted should contribute to their good and advantage while nothing would seem more directly crosse to the same But the Christian and wise observer can give another account they know what a sure truth this is that there is no real jarr betwixt the promise and providence of God in this matter and what ever be the present thoughts patient on waiting hath had cause to say this 1. When his way and their thoughts have most differed in the accomplishment of his Word and bringing about their mercy they have found it was to their advantage that his choice was alway better then theirs yea they have been oft made to confesse that their saddest disappointments therein have tended to their further upmaking 2. That the Lords denying them some outward thing which they have most desired they have found as afterwards hath appeared was to grant them more then their desire he hath refused them as it were in an Ishmael that he might give them ane Isaack 3. They can oft say they had been undone if they had not been undone that it was their mercy the Lord took such a way to cast them in a fever to prevent a lethargy and by some sharp crosse gave them a wound in the flesh to cure and let out some grosse impostume in their soul which should have made their case worse 4. How greatest shakings have helped their further establishment so as they were never more confirmed then in that about which they have been most brangled yea they have also found this the Lords way to cure their frowardnes and misbeleef by some further addition to their crosse that when they would not beleeve he hath caused them come in upon a greater disadvantage whileas a small affliction hath made them impatient a more heavy and pressing trouble hath been their cure and helped them to keep silence under Gods hand 5. That the growing of difficulties in their way and some further pressure in the tryal they have found it was from the Lord in order to its removal and to the bringing forth of some greater
THE FULFILLING OF THE SCRIPTURE OR An Essay shewing the Exact Accomplishment of the Word of God in his Works of Providence performed and to be performed For Confirming the Beleevers and Convincing the Atheists of the present time Containing in the End a few rare Histories of the Works and Servants of God in the Church of Scotland ISAI XLVI V. X. My counsel shall stand and I will do all my pleasure JOHN X V. XXXV And the Scripture cannot be broken ACT. 1 V. XVI Men and brethren This Scripture must needs have been fulfilled Printed in the Year 1669. THE EPISTLE TO THE READER READER It is like you mâ— expect some accompt anent the rise and occasion of this discourse that on so great and weighty a subject so small an essay should venture abroad especially in a time when it seemeth more safe and prudent to keep silence to be swift to hear and slow to speak which seldome hath an after challenge the Author will say litle for his apology herein though he hopeth he may finde it more easy to satisfy others then he did himself this fredome onely he shall take to confesse that sometime it hath been matter of earnest yea hatâ— caused some tossing and exercise upon his spirit and pressed a more serious enquiry and search with a respect to his own case to be perswaded anent the Scriptures divine authority that Godlines is not an empty name or shadow but of an undoubted truth which indeed of all other things is the greatest and of most near concernment and truely anent that this grave convincing argument of the Scriptures certain accomplishment hath not onely oft stared him in the face with a satisfying discovery and impression thereof as a most quieting and unanswerable demonstration of the truth but he must also say that by very remarkable confirmations from the Lord this hath been so convincingly witnessed to his experience as leaveth him under engadgement were such a poor testimony of weight to put his seal to the Word that it falleth not to the ground neither doth the promise of God fail It is a dark time now with the Church of Christ which we see every where almost suffering and afflicted whilest the whole earth besides seemeth to be at ease Christians also even beyond others in their privat lot trysted with very sharp tryals though I think suffering may be the least of our fear at this day while Ath-isme doth now appear on so formidable a grouth and hath a more threatning aspect then the rage or violence of men we see a saâ— dâ—cay likewise on the Churches abroad Religion every where under a great consumption and weaâ—ing out that seemeth to have reached it in its vital parts men search after an unusual way of sinning as if they scorned to be wicked at a common and ordinary rate prejudice easily taken up and enterâ—ained against the way of God whilest the good man doth alace perish without any affecting observation thereof the choise and excellent of the earth pluckt away and none to fill their roome Christians burials now frequent but the birth and inbringing of such to the Church rare This is indeed a sad subject and so much the sadder that few are found whose eye affecteth their heart whose teares and groaning seem to answer such a stroke and ruin which now is like to fall under our hand but I shall leave this prayer will be the best cure and is this day more fit then complaining to turn unto him who seeth the wayes of his People that he may heal them and can prevent these with mercy who seem least fit for the same onely two or three sad remarks of this time I cannot altogether passe which indeed are strange symptomes of the Churches present case and distemper 1. To see men own the doctrine of sanctification who yet can professedly disown yea make it their work by reproach to beget a prejudice against the practice thereof Oh strange to finde such as will dip their pen in gall against a tender and strict walk in Religion and revile it in the power thereof whilest they doe not deny these truths and principles that necessarily oblidge to such a tender practice who in the most grave concerning dutyes of Christianity think it enough to charge their brethen with Pharisaical ostentation and hypocrisy whilest they must confesse these duetyes to be unquestionably binding and that they can be no competent judges of such a challenge which the great witnes of the heart and inward parts of men can onely determine 2. It is a sad remark also of the time that Protestant writers professing the Reformed Religion shall state themselves in opposition to the most concerning grounds thereof such as imputed righteousnes and justification by faith which are well called Articulus stantis cadentis Ecelesiâ— I cannot have that charity that it is from ignorance but from a height of malice that some of late reproach the Protestant doctrine in this great fundamental of justification as if it pressed beleeving and resting upon Christ without respect to works and holines I confesse we put not inherent righteousnes in the room of imputed though we assert each is necessary in their own place the one in order to ouâ— right the other in order to the actual participation of that right yea that holines is absolutly necessary not only necessitate praecepti sed medii and justifying faith doth necessarily require works sed non qua quatenus justificat but sure if these men grant we are justifyed by the satisfaction of Christ they must needs confesse it is by imputation since if the debtour be acquit by the cautioners payment is it not by the imputation there of to him O sad to see some put their invention upon the rack how to wound the Church yea a death wound it would be if they could reach their end in that great truth of imputed righteousnes but it were best they denyed that sixt ver of the 4. Chap. to the Rom. to be canonick Scripture which none can read and shift it being so clear that the blessed man is there held forth uuto whom God imputeth righteousnes without works sure that cannot be inherent righteousnes else it were contradictio in adjecto I professe these what ever they pretend I must look on as adversaryes to the Reformed Churches and there is nothing more dangerous then a pirat going forth under a counterfut flag 3. Is it not likewise sad yea astonishing to see Ministers now in these times who are the expresse Embassadors of Christ given to the Church for her edification stand so directly crosse to the very end of their work and Ministry many of whom may be said that knowingly and deliberatly they oppose piety that such should persecute whose work is to feed and wound in stead of healing grieve the spirit of the Godly who should be helpers of their joy that none are a greater plague to corrupt the Church and cause the
sacrifice of the Lord be abhorred then some of these who should be the falt of the earth yea none more obstruct the treaty of the Gospel betwixt Christ and his Church then Ministers who are called the friends of the bridgroom Oh what a strange and astonishing contradiction may this seem but it should be no reproach to that holy and excellent calling of the Ministry for of such the Scripture hath expresly warned I confesse it may be said no Atheist like an unsanctified Minister yea no Atheisme of so black a dye as theirs who being still enured with holy things have yet no sense thereof Now in this very dark houre wherein the Church seemeth to have fallen in a death like pang and oh many of her Children in a sad lâ—thargie that if we looked in an ordinary way her wound might seem incureable there are a great and concerning Quaeries that I think should much take us up The one is to know what the Scripture speaketh to the Church what solid ground of encouragement is there held forth for truely if we had not that sure testimony of the Word we might fear Religion should quite wear out and truth perish from the earth but doth the Scripture speak peace all then is well that O that is sufficient security to put the Churches hope beyond further debate though men should threaten though the earth were overturned and the foundation shaken this is a determination above men above all the rules of humane policy yea above the stars which frustrateth the tokens of the liars and maketh diviners mad even that revealed Counsel of God taking place anent his work and People I knw some grave writers of these late times doe expresse their fear that the horrid wickednesse apostacy of the Gentile Church may at last resolve in the Lords departure and an universal darknes that as the rejection of the Jewes made way for the Gentiles incoming so their fall may as remarkably preceede that solemn return and restauration of the Jewish Church it is also become the fear of many that Popery may yet once overrun the whole Reformed Churches before Antichrist fall but since these sad thoughts nor any appearances of the time are no part of our Bible we should learn neither to stretch our fears nor expectations beyond that which the Scripture warranteth and if the Lord be God and this his very word let us adhere to it and wait for its accomplishment A 2. Quaere which is ndeed no lesse concerning in such a time may be anent Duety what so imminent an liazard of the Church and this great decay of Christianity doth most pressingly call for but this is a subject which requireth another pen and too large to touch with a passing word yea we may say the great want of these dayes is not anent the discovery of duety but of the practice of known and discovered duetyes for the Scripture giveth a certain and distinct sound in the darkest time and hath not left us to doubtful inquiries and debate in this matter I shall therefore leave it with a few things onely to be in the general considered 1. It is sure that every time hath its present duety and the wise discerners thereof will knw thence what they ought to do what work and service the present circumstances of that time cals for shall the earth have its seasons wherein things are beautiful shall the stork and swallow know their time and yet Christians not know how to bring forth fruit in their season and discern the special time and opportunity of duety 2. It is also sure that every Christian in whatsoever capacity or condition as he hath his measure and talent so hath some work and opportunity of duety wherein they may serve the Lord in their generation yea it is not the meanest lot or condition that shutteth that door upon any that they have no work for God who desire to be faithful for him Oh that in this threatning time when darknes is like to overspread the Church it were more upon the heart of Christians to strive together and contend by a serious improvement of their several capacities to preserve Religion and transmit the knowledge of Jesus Christ to the posterity that the Christian parent or Master of family did witnes more that great resolution in a time when many are drawing back but as for me I and my house will serve the Lord. 3. It is found that the most eminent and honourable service of the Church doth usually tryst her in a low and suffering condition when there hath been but little strength many outward disadvantages then both their call and furniture hath been most observable to confesse the truth to endure for the Gospel of Christ to overcome by the Word of his testimony a piece of service whereto more prosperous times doe not give such an opportunity yea it hath been in such a case Dan. 11 32. that these who knew their God were made strong to do exploits 4. It doth much concern us to put a high value on the truth in a time when men must either lose it or buy it and O what a choise purchase is that which cannot be bought too dear though at the rate of our liberty estate credit and reputation yea with the losse of peace when it cometh in competition with it For it is that great depositum oâ—ce dâ—livered to the Saints the inheritance of our Children that way whereby Jesus Christ keepâ—th intercourse with his Bride on the earth yea the charter of all our mercyes and of our hope through eternity 5. Though every line of diâ—ine tâ—uth is inestimable yet it is sure there is a more pressing caâ—l for our adherence to that truth which is most controverted in the time for it is the word of his patience and the matter of our present testimony and it is known through all ages what a singular blâ—ssing hath followed the contending and witnessing of a few for the truth in a spait of publick defection to keep it alive when it was like to be swallowed up yea to effects above rational beliefe unus Athanasius contratotum orbem many such remarks have not been wanting 6. I shall only adde that which is alwayes necessary and binding yet we may say in a time of the Churches hazard and suffering is more pressingly called for even the study of Christian prudence a duety convincingly necessary for regulating of duetyes according to the circumstances of the Churches case which doth so nearly concern the interest and preservation of Religion that I must say a breach in that concord betwixt zeal and Christian prudence when there is not some equal respect studyed in the exercise of both cannot but give the Church a sore wound this is indeeda large theam but I shall onely point at in 3 things 1. In our avoiding and being tender to give offence not only to keep a distance from evil but from the smallest appearance thereof I must
say they are bad casuits and have litle respect to the Churches edification who make it their work not so much to keep men from sin as to shew them quam prope ad peccatum sine peccato accedere liceat O what a becoming fear is that not to lay a stumbling block in the way of others to grieve the weake or confirm such who use to found their prejudice against the truth and way of God upon the miscariage of such as professe the same 2. This excellent study of Christian prudence hath a respect to mens taking offence as well as their giving it to our being sober in judging in personal reflexions to cover and hide the infirmities of others rather then spread them even for the Gospels sake yea to shut as it were our eyes and cast a mantle on their nakednes who overtaken with the violence of some temptations may yet be serviceable to the Church but especially this should presse us to a watchful regard of any breach and rent in the Church and to study a healing spirit so far as is possible without prejudice to truth 3. It is also a concerning piece of Christian prudence hovv to vvalk vvisely tovvards these vvho are vvithout vvhen prejudice against the vvay of God is now in such a grouth to study hovv vve may convince gain ground and by Christianly prudent and tender carriage conciliat respect to the truth and thus commend holines and these vvho professe it to the conscience of men to study that rule of expediency much in things of themselves vvarrantable vvhat fitnes and advantage present circumstances may offer or deny for edification and promoting that great interest of the Gospel in our converse vvith men I shall novv cease to trouble yovv further onely vvould premit some fevv things vvith a respect to the subject of this follovving essay 1. Should vve not vvith vvonder and astonishment look on this great record of the Scripture by vvhich the glorious Majesty of God doth speak to men yea doth as certainly communicat his Counsel and minde vve may say more certainly then if vve had an immediat audible voice from Heaven O could vve have such ordinary thoughts of this if vve consider hovv near God cometh therein to us I think if there vvere but one corner of the earth though in the remotest parts vvhere men might go and get a look of so vvonderful and important a thing as Gods expresse vvill vvritten and sent from Heaven to the earth anent our duety here and blessednes for ever should vve not think it vvorth our crossing the sea and of the greatest expence of time or labour it is truely a vvonder hovv vve can read and consider the Scripture vvithout vvondring 2. It is a great concernment to knovv that the Scripture hath such a vvitnes as experience and that there is such a trade correspondence as this betvvixt the Saints and the Word vvhich lieth not in the common road of the World O vvhat an empty thing should Religion be if it had not this vvord experience in its grammar that secret sure mark vvhereby the Christian knovveth the Scripture is of God hovv thus the Lord hath oft sealed their instruction in a dark plunge hovv life and povver inlivening influences to the melting of their heart hath oft trysted them there in a very dead frame and novv they knovv that verily God heareth prayer novv they are persvvaded and have learned by the crosse that he is indeed a comforter yea many can shevv hovv by the Word their first acquaintance vvith the Lord did begin hovv some particular truth like a pickle of corn throvvn in at their heart by the blessing of the great husbandman vvas made to take life and grovv 3. It much concerneth us to knovv vvhat an excellent key the Scripture is to unlock that sealed book of providence and that no other key can fit the same many have tried another vvay but lost themselves on the search and the more they prest by humane vvisdome they became the more dark I truely think there is not a more satisfying discovery vvithin time then this to trace divine truth back until vve see its first breaking forth out of his eternal decree and council who is the author thereof hovv thence it taketh hold of the vvord vvhich is the adequate sign and declaration of his purpose and then hovv the vvord taketh hold of his vvork and providence vvhere vve may see the face and condition of the Church clearly vvritten out through all the changes of time hovv providence keepeth a certain and steady course even amidst the most perplexed motions and reelings of of the earth yea hovv all things even these vvhich vvould seem most contradictory run vvithin that straight channel of the vvord and cannot go vvithout tâ—ese bounds 4. It is the priâ—cipal and most concerning Scripture-promises that are onely touched in this follovving discourse these vvhich carry along vvith them a clear continued series of the Churches condition through time and shevves the most remarkable changes of her lot for it is clear that in diverse prophecies and in a different manner the Spirit doth point at one and the same thing and truely it should cause no mistake or prejudice thar vve finde several of the Scripture prophecies exprest in such dark termes since the vvisdome of God saw it fit that for a time these truths should be locked up and sealed but novv light hath so far broken up vvith the event as vve may see hovv very significant and suitable to the matter these most dark aenigmatick termes are 5. We vvould upon no accompt shut our eares vvhere the Scripture is clear and giveth us ground to vvait that the outgoings of the Lord for his people in their deliverance and for the destruction of his enemyes novv in these last times shall be very glorious yea by some stately and stupendious acts of providence that he shall accomplish his judgement on Antichrist neither must vve take a prejudice at truth because of the vvilde fancyes of many vvho vvould extend it beyond its bounds or that near resâ—mblance vvhich the errour of some in this time may seem to have thereto for that hath been an old stratagem of the Devil to prejudge the World at some of the truths of God by setting up a counterfut thereto I shall adde no more onely vvhat accompt is given upon the close of the last argument of some remarkable passages of providence in the late times as herein the author hath some confidence to professe he did endeavour vvhat could be attained for certainty of the same and if any circumstance of these relations should be found a mistake he dare say before Him vvho is greater then our conscience it vvas not the neglect of a serious inquiry so he must also premit the inserting of them vvas upon no further intent then to be a vvitnes to that truth of the Lords eminent appearance for his Church in the
of duty that its surely good to draw near to him and in the close of their life can from many remarkable and convincing providences declare the truth and faithfulnes of God and truely whilst I speak here of the Christians experience I think its sad and a great short coming that there is not a more serious improvement of it for this end which is a very concerning duty on such who have tasted that the Lord is gracious O what an excellent addition would this be to their testament when they are to leave the World to leave a testimony behinde them to the faithfulnes of God in his Word and promise and thus put their seale to the same from what they have oft proven by sure experience for this should prove a singular help to strengthen others and spread abroad the fame and good report of religion yea thus one generation should declare the works of the Lord to another and transmit the memory of his goodnes to succeding ages 7. This is something which not only the Christians experience doth witnes and in every time take place but hath also a peculiar reference to these ages and periods of times wherein such particular truths should have their accomplishment for its true that the Prophets of old did not onely in their predictions hold forth in general the truth and certainty of these things which should fall out but they also inquired and searched diligently anent the time to what or what manner of time the Spirit by them did point at 1 Pet. 1 11. For it s truely clear that a piece of the Word was under the Law to have its peculiar accomplishment that part of it also under the Messias Kingdome in the dayes of the gospel should be fulfilled and we find a very concerning part thereof belongs to thir latter times and there is betwixt such periods of time and revolution of the Churches case and the bringing forth of such a piece of the Scripture to a performance a very certain and undoubted connection It s true we do not yet well understand which will be one of the last manifestations the Church shall have at the end of time when the mystery of God is finished how to sort the event exactly to the Word but it is sure and were worthy of our study and observation how every age hath something of the Scripture peculiar thereto yea carrieth forward the Lords work and design a further step may we not see how one age fulfilleth such a piece of the Churches sufferings appointed for her and puts some great tryal and sad persecution over her head which she was to meet with whilst an other age carrieth her thorow an other change and giveth her a time of rest and breathing how such a time bringeth Antichrist fordward to his hight and such a following age begins the turn of the Churches case yea every several period and revolution of time still addeth something to that excellent history of the Word and providence which we have since the beginning and bringeth forth something further into the world of the Lords counsel and design about his Church 8. The accomplishing of the Scripture is such a thing we are to look after in a special way here which concerns this militant and traveling condition of the Church for if the Scriptures were once fully accomplished and the great mystery of God therein finished there were then nothing more to doe his work of providence were at an end and time should be no more this is something that is not here perfected at once but is still gradually carrying on and then shall be compleat at the resurrection of the just and second coming of the Lord which is the last part of Canonick Scripture to be made out when both his work and his word and time shall be all finished together but whill the sainets are yet by the way they have the written word and all these pretious promises therein for present use and encouragement for that is its proper work to take them safe thorow this labyrinth of the world and when it hath brought them to land it hath no more to doe there will be then no more need for a Christian to goe to a promise and adventure upon it we shall then no more watch with the watchmen in a dark and stormy night and hope for the breaking of the day faith then shall not be at a stand how such a word shall be made out because of invincible difficulties in its way no then it hath done its worke and that which is written shall be swallowed up in that which is seen and enjoyed all the streames of our encouragement will then lose themselves in a greater depth O then it s finished and done what all the promises prophecies and threatnings of the Word was bringing forth and then no more need of something as a pledge and earnest in hand to them who have the full possession of the inheritance under whose feet the God of peace hath trod Satan and all their enemies 9. I shall adde this the accomplishment of the Scripture is something which is not onely demonstrat to a Christian by sensible influences and Gods Secret working with his Spirit but is made out to the observation of men in the way of providence and not onely witnessed by that internal evidence of the Spirit but by an external testimony which both rationally holdeth this out to the judgement and sensibly to the sight and experience and this is the strongest and most full of all outward evidences since the world must shut their eyes if they do not see it and a Christian must deny what he both seeth and feeleth if he deny a witnes to this II. We would consider the accomplishment of the Scripture as that which is the Lords peculiar work and design in the World and that great bussines which is upon the wheels of providence amidst the various changes and revolutions which are here within time for bringing about whereof the blessed thoughts of his heart are fixed and unalterable This is indeed a grave and serious truth worthy to be more noticed and laid to heart by men that the glorious providence of God which goeth throughout the earth and doth particularly reach all things which come to passe the smallest as well as the greatest intrests of men in all these doth move certainly and infallibly for the accomplishing of the Scripture which is that great thing God hath before his eyes for it is no personal intrests of men how great so ever they be that can answer this end it is something beyond the Setting up of Kings or overturning Kingdomes and nations that he doth minde amidst these varions changes which are in the World it s some greater thing then that which we most notice the Lord thereby designes how such a party is advanced and others brought low for these things come within the reach of his care and providence in so far as the
of this promise to the Church beyond all we have yet seen that many Scripture-truths now dark and abstruse shall be made so clear as shall even cause us to wonder at the grosse mistakes we once had thereof yea that after generations shall have a discovery and uptaking of some Prophecies now obscure which shall as far exceed us as this time doth go beyond former ages which comparatively we must say were very dark O! when that promise of the incalling of the Jewes shall once take place what a wonder will they be to themselves that their understanding shonld have been under such a vail when the truth shall be clear and evident to them in that day Will it not be a sweet and easy work for the godly to sort together the predictions of the Word and the events And truely there is much now wrapt up in Scripture Prophecyes not yet fulfilled which we may say in after times when the event shall unvail their meaning wil exceed yea confound all these comments many have had upon them 3. Is it not also clear that these Prophecies which of all the Scripture were most obscure and overclouded with dark figures and allegories concerning which there had been such mistake and hesitation by the Church so many perplexing queries have a peculiar respect to the last times And that then they shall be made plain and easy vvhen so notable a key as the event doth open them up such as these of the vvitnesses taking lyse and rising again Babylons fall and ruine Christs Reigning vvith his Saints a thousand Yeares vvhich novv are in some measure already cleared from their begun accomplishment beyond former times but vve vvait for a more full eommentary that tyme shall give upon the same 4. It is in the latter times that the glory of God in his truth and faithfulnes shall most eminently shine forth that is a part of the solemn congratulation of the Church upon Babylons fall Revelat. 15 ver 3. not only great and marvellous are thy works but just and true are thy wayes for truely in this stroke of the judgement of God and these remarkable providences concurring therevvith the fulfilling of the Scripture vvill be so plain and undenyable that we may say it vvill then dazel the eyes of men even greatest Atheists alarme the World yea very effectually contribute we have ground so to judge to that promised encrease of the Church and incoming of the Jewes when in Antichrists fall and ruine they shall see so convincing a seal put to one of the most considerable Prophecies of the Word in the accomplishment whereof much of the Prophetick part of the New Testament relating to the Churches state and her long tryal under Antichrists reign may be seen clearly verified 5. The Lord hath reserved his greatcst Works to the latter dayes wherein his judgments shall be manifest and the Word confirmed by such solemn convincing providences that men will not get them passed without a remark we are this day witnesses to many such and are looking what these times shall yet bring forth that the great and remarkable acts of the Lord must force the World to see a divine power and say lo there is an undoubted accomplishment of the Scripture 6. The Church in these last tymes hath peculiar advantagcs for understanding this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment which former ages had not First a great part thereof is now fulfilled that men may see with their eyes if they but know how to lay the Word and work of God together the Christian Church had in former times but dark glances at these great things which we have this day visibly transcribed in providence the promises were then travelling in birth of that which is now brought forth 2. Are we not mounted as it were on the shoulders of that experience and observation of former times which hath been transmitted to us and we must say upon that account the Church hath now a greater seal and confirmation of the truth then what it had in the dayes of the Prophets and the Apostles even when Christ was in the flesh 3. The Temple of God and Ark of his Testament is now opened in Heaven light more fully abounding and the meanes of knowledge And O! should not this be much our study who have a greater talent then former ages certainly this will be a sin of a deeper dye then in times of ignorance since we can be no strangers to this truth without shutting our eyes blinding the conscience doing violence to our light when the Lord doth give his People such solemn confirmations 7. I shall add is it not clearly soretold in that Dan. 12â— ver 4. that in the last times this will be one of the speciall exercises of the saints to enquire and make a diligent search concerning the Scripturs accomplishment For it s there said many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased importing that this shall be much their study and cause a diligent fearch whereunto the great works of God in these times shall invite them and what should be the posture of the Godly in these dayes on whom the end of the World is come should it not be lyke the watchman in the last watch of the night who looketh oft what appearance there is from the east of the day breaking a serious enquery what of the Scripture is fulfilled whereby we may know on very clear grounds if the night be far spent the day at hand and that the coming of the Lord to judgement draweth near VIII This is a great and concerning duety for Christians to study this truth that they may have something more then repore how the Scripture hath a sure accomplishment and doth take place in the providences of the time wherein we live I must think strange that there is such a great help as this so near and yet we see it not nor do seriously ponder the same when the command is so express to observe the works of the Lord which for that end are shewed forth that men may enquire and read the faithfulnes of God therein yea that so great a truth which would bide the search of all the criticks of the World a truth wherein our blessednes through time and eternity lyeth should offer it self to our tryall and yet is so little known O who can dispense with the neglect of this duty by which we answer that solemn call and invitation of the works of God do honour him serve our generation are helpers to our own faith and are thereby helped to strengthen others yea are brought to see with our eyes and from experience what before was as a strange thing unto us Now to clear how much this is Christians duty to study a practical converse with the Word and to be serious observers of its accomplishment let us consider 1. We are thus helped to declare the works of the Lord and to give him the glory of his faithfulness
and is not that agrave duty Which at all times in every station and condition of life should engadge men to this study thus every Christian may become a witnes to the truth and put his seal thereto for which he should think his life truely desireable and he doth in no small measure attain the true end thereof though he had no other opportunity for his masters service and we may say this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment like a great roll hath been transmitted from hand to hand from one age to another attested and as it were subscrybed by so many witnesses it doth thus come to our time and to every mans doore and require their personal witnessing and sealing of the same 2. This should make it an easy work to trust the Word and to adventure thereon in the ordinary occurrences of their life they may well trust God in strait who have so strong an argument to make use of that oft they have tryed him and the truth of his Word by many many experiences will not these that know his name trust in him Which was a notable testimony from a serious Christian in a very sharp triall oft have I tryed God and shall I not learn to trust him once 3. This doth lay the Christian in the way of that promise Psal 107. last ver a promise truely large and comprehensive but little considered that such as are wise to observe the works of God they shall see the loving kindnes of the Lord even in their own particular case made out to them yea whilst they are serious to observe his works abroad in the World and his way to others they shall be no losers thereby at home but find this promise meet them and to turn their general observation unto personal experience of the loving kindnes of the Lord. 4. Thus the saints by experiencing the truth of the Word get a conyincing seal thereby to their intrest in the promise for begun possession is indeed a strong witnes to this right when they can say they have got as certain returns of the Word when they have put it to an essay in some particulars of their life as they are sure of any thing they did ever see so from unquestionable experience they set up a pillar and write thereon Hither to hath the Lord helpt us 5. Thus should Christians with much advantage be helped to convince gainsayers for its sure Atheisme could not make so bold and publick an appearance if men did not so much take their religion on trust O the serious experienced man can with an other confidence own the truth whose experience and observation of the works of God give him an argument that none can answer while not only he can assert but conduct and lead men to the things themselves that they may see if in such and such particulars the Scripture be not truely fulfilled 6. Thus the providenee of God should have a more sweet refreshing countenance when from this great height that watchtower of Christiau observation we take a look thereof and truely otherwayes men will stumble at the most ordinary dispensations and think Gods Work is a masse of confusion but here we are taught to see how the written Word and his way are linked in a most sweet aggreement 7. We may thus trace Divine truth even by our sense and feeling and joyn the Word and experience in a regular correspondence yea thus we should have a clear transscript of the Lords way with his Church taken out of that great authentick original of the Scripture and there see on what a solid basis and foundation that magnificent structure of providence is raised up what a notable key should we thus have for opening the Scripture by a serious humble inquiry after the works of God Where not only the impression and signals of the power but of the truth and faithfulness of the Lord are so very legible 8. This is a piece of our talent wherewith we are entrusted of which every Christian should study a serious improvement knowing they must render an account what their observation of this great truth hath gained and what furder establishment and confirmation they have thus attained 9. I would adde the concernment and weight of this duty may presse it much on us for if the Scriptures accomplishment be an undoubted truth O! then this is sure the Saints have a great inheritance they are Princes though now under a disguise and though yet minors they are heirs of more then the World can shadow forth the Christian is then more happy on a dunghil scraping his sore then such who are cloathed in purple and fare delicately every day if this be sure we should look with compassion rather then envy on these whom the World doth account happy we need not question the gain of Godlines then it is sure that such who sow in teares shall reap in joy and the righteous though now trampled under in the morning shall have dominion yea in a vvord we may then on sure ground solace our selves with the thoughts of that great change which will be within a little when the grave must render back her prisoners and may with as much assurance of a blessed resnrrection ly doun in the dust as we are sure there will be a morning when we ly down at night O! then there is a Heaven and a hell that is certain eternity is not a night dream and one moment shall shortly put an end to all our services yea the shutting of our eye lids at death shall but open them in the Pardise of God HAving touched this truth a litle in the general I shall now hold forth some arguments whence the accomplâ—shment of the Scripture may be demonstrat they are these five which I intend to prosecute in the following discourse FIRST Argument To prove the Scripture is certainly fulfilled and hath an accomplishment is this that which hath been in all ages the testimony of the Saints what every particular Christian doth seal from their frequent and sure experience what is found and proved by them in there dayly walk upon exactest tryal yea what as many as ever were serious in Religion do witness must be certain and true But the accomplishment of the Scripture is such Therefore c. II. Argument That which is manifest and legible in the whole course and tenor of providence about the Church and by clear convincing instances both of judgement and mercy is made out to the observation of every age must be a certain truth but the Scriptures accomplishment is such Therefore III. Argnment Thar which hath not only the Christians testimony from experienee and of the Church from constant observation but is obvious even to the view of the World which from the conscience of the worst of men doth force a testimony that they can neither shift nor deny which also may be demonstrat to the conviction of ordinary observers hath a publick acknowledgement from
That accesse and liberty to poure forth their souls to God vvhen he hath filled their mouth vvith arguments and inabled them both to wrestle and vviat they have found a favourable Crisis and begun outgate yea the very turn of a sad case vvhich they have got from the Lord as the pledge of a further ansvver and that vvhen he thus prepareth the heart he doth cause his ear to hear 5. That vvhen they have been under a most dark cloud they have found their sky clear have got a very sensible taste of Gods acceptation in prayer and of his taking their sute off their hand even vvhile the matter vvas still in dependence before him yea that they have oft had such a satisfying impression impression of Gods minde and persvvasion of his ansvvering their desire as hath helped them cheerfully to vvait yea sometimes to sing the triumph before the victory 4. That vvhen they had been much in prayer they must also say it hath been the time vvherein the spirit hath flovvrished vvas most lively yea that then they had their best dayes that then the candle of the Lord shined upon their pathes and his devv lay all night upon their branches and that they have found there is an evident and proportionable abatement of their spiritual life and encouragement in God according to their vvearing out in the exercise of this duety 5. They have many times found that vvhen there vvas nothing left them but to turn in to God and they knevv of no other vvay to come through but to pray and look up they never found a more svveet and seasonable outgate so that most observable times of prayer have been also the most observable times of their experience and they can say from many proofs it is no hopelesse bussines vvhich is put over upon God by prayer though there be small outvvard appearance 6. That it is not in vain to follow out a sute before the throne and that accesse and moyen in Heaven is as sure a way to come speed which they know well as greatest moyen upon earth having so evidently found while many seek the rulers favour that the determination of every thing is from the Lord. 7. That prayer with quiet onwaiting in the use of meanes wiâ—neth comfortably through where over caring and carnal policy in the use of all other shifts hath been forced to stick 8. They know by experience that as there are judicial times wherein an inhibition as it were is laid on them from the Lord in their wrestling yea and a sore restraint on their spirits which hath been very sensible so also they have found times of more easy accesse and abundant liberty a spirit of prayer let forth before some special mercy and deliverance to the Church whereby they could in some measure discern its neer approach 9. That on the back of some solemn addresse and application to God by prayer and fasting in a day of strait they have oft seen cause even from that day and up ward to date a remarkable return and outgate in which even common observers might discern what an evident answer the Churches intercession with God in times of extremity hath had 10. I may adde the saints know this so well by experience that surely God heareth prayer even in such and such a particular that they can with much confidence adventure and make an earant of the meanest as well as their greatest concernments to him having so oft tryed and found that seriousnes and sincerity in addresse to God was never in vain but what ever be the times wherein this promise taketh place their heart shall live that seek God THIRD Instance Is the promise of the Spirit and powring out of the same which we have clear in the Word Is 59 v. 21. Ioh. 14 16 Luk. 24 v. 49. Rom. 8 16 16. The accomplishment of which is so manifest such a sensible demonstration thereof in the experience of the saints that I am sure this can no more be denyed then these who are warmed with the heat of the sun can deny their sense and feeling that the sun hath such an influence and doth not the Christans spiritual walk bear as convincing a witnes to the fulfilling of this promise as any living man by walking in the way sheweth that he hath a soul and principle of life within him Novv to demonstrat this a litle I vvould but touch some of the ordinary experiences of the saints therein vvhich they doe testify and by clear undenyable evidences knovv to be no delusion 1. That vvhich causeth so real a change upon them vvhich maketh them alive to God vvho once vvere dead creating them as it vvere of new that vvhich bringeth a clod of earth so near Heaven raiseth them so far above themselves to a delightful converse vvith things not seen that vvhile their place and abode is here their company and fellovviship is above that vvhich maketh all things nevv to them and doth so â—ar change their nature and inclination as causeth them finde more svveetnes in a spiritual life then in the pleasures of sin yea reconcileth them vvith the Lavv and exercises of a Châ—stian vvhere once there vvas such contrariety O! is not this a real effect of the spirit and no â—â—aginary thing 2. That vvhereof they vvere altogether ignorant vvhen they vvere strangers to God and knevv not if there vvas a Holy Ghost but by report novv since their being born again they finde themselves entred in another World brought out of darknes unto a marvellous lighâ— and of this are sure that once they vvere blind but novv they see is not this a proof of the truth of this promise 3 That vvich maketh â—hem see more of God in his Word and Works at one time then at another vvhence is this difference and inequality the Scriptures are at one time the great things of the Law which are at an other time but common things to them the object is the same but O! what different manifestation thereof whence is it that such a light springeth up in the Word that openeâ—h up this deep and maketh them see the wonders of his Law and within a little nothing but dark night doe not the saints knopw this well and that it is no delusion 4. That which maketh such sensible liberty in their soull and confidence in their approach to God after sore bondage and fear which raiseth them often so far above their ordinary frame as they are not only quickned and refreshed themselves but do observably warm others O how piercing and savory are their words which â—hew what difference there is oft betwixt a Christian and himself betwixt a dead exercise of a gift which reacheth the ear and that which melteth the heart and doth even reach by standers with a pleasant perfume 5. That which maketh such a sudden change in their â—ase under ordinances that their heart that died within them as a stone ere ever they were aware hath
taken lyfe and need â—re with a Word yea hath been powred out within them so as their beloveds voice hath had an other sound O then they think not the time long the Word is as the â—oney from the comb so as they have oft wiâ—ht a pâ—â—peâ—ual arrest upon their spirit in such a condition that none may stirr up their beloved until he please can that be any delusion 6 That which bringeth in promises seasonably into their minde in the day oâ— their strait and causeth the Word tryst so suitably to heir present case with such a satisfying impression of the same as doth give most sensible and present ease 6. That which so clearly by the Word discoverth to men then own heart and doth search them out in their most closse and retired thoughts that they have been oft made to wonder how the Word is upon all their secrets is not this the candle of the Lord 8 That which doth demonstrat their state and being in Christ by an argument which is beyond all words and doth by power in an irresistible way answer all objectious and turn the most fâ—oward case into a blessed calme and hath made a simple word more effectual in a moment then most perswasive aâ—guments could be 9 That which maketh such abundant joy spring up in the heart when there is no visible grounds for the same like the dry bone gushing out water must surely be some supernatural and excellent power that can not only bring it out of nothing but out of contraries 10. That which giveth them so sensible a taste of the powers of the World to come such a ravishing glance of the inheritance that they could hardly sometime sorbear to rise at midnight and sing for joy in the hope thereof and hath given them such a discovery of God at some special times as hath made them judge that all they ever knew of him before was but by the hearing of the ear 11. That which is so discernable and sensibly felt in the present time that Christs return to the soul and the outletting of the spirit hath been as evident oft to the saints as to that Martyr who was forced to cry out at the stake He is come he is come and hath been so sweet when enjoyed that the remembrance of some of these times hath been very pleasant and refreshing yea this is such a thing as most observably trysts the godly man in the way of his duety according to the Word 12. That is no delusion the withdrawing whereof is so sensible to them as it maketh their duety wherein they have had delight become their burden when they are put to row with oares the wind being gone and maketh it like night to the soul when the sun is gone down and sad experience hath oft shewed them how the overclouding of their soul the with drawiug of the spirit comforter doth observably follow a sitting up of their duety and yeilding to any known sin by which it is grieved FOVRTH Instance is that Promise for direstion which God hath given his People in the Word that he will guide them with his Counsel will order and direct their steps who doe commit their way to him and teach them the way that they shall choofe Ps 37 5 Ps 25 9 14. Ps 73 ver 24. The fulfilling of which hath been so manifest to these who ever made earnest of acknowledging God in their wayes and committing the conduct thereof to him that I shall but attest their experience if they have not this testimony to give 1. That to trust God with their case and give him the guiding of their way hath taken them much more easily through a plunging case them overcareing anxiety yea the Lords directing their steps and making things successful when they have committed the same to him hath been often as sensible to them as their strait and difficulty was 2. That the way of the word hath been the best expedient for taking them safe and comfortably through that they never repented that they did more consult their duty then inclination when they were at a stand about a particular and did not debate the command even while there seemed a lyon in the way 3. That they were never left without counsel and direction when their eye was single and serious about it and it was not so much want of light as of an heart to close therewith that made their way oft so dark but when they subjected themselves to Gods minde they found that such who follow him shall not walk in darknes 4. That light and counsel doth tryst men in following the command and the practice of known duety hath helped them to know more theâ— duety and that light did most abound when it was their serious study to follow the same 5. They found it was never in vain to enquire after Gods mind by prayer and also in the temple to make a reference of a particular to him when it was too hard for them but have often seen the Word evidently directed to such and such a case as if they had gotten a return from Heaven by an audible voice 6. They also know that Gods following in light with a powerful impression his teaching the reines and instructing with a strong hand is no delusion but the sure and well grounded experience of most solid Christians in all ages yea most discernable from any false impulse and that some special piece of work and service which God hath layed in their way wants not usually some special call backed wiâ—â— such light and authority as in an irresistable way can answer all objections to make them go bound in the spirit about such a duety 7. How Gods special directing hand hath been oft very observable not only in preventing and crossing their way to withdraw them by some sharp dispensation from their purpose but sensibly overpowering them so that they have been plucked as it were back from unavoidable hazard that they could not finde their pathes 8. I shall adde they have oft observably found how easy their way was made to them when the Lord doth countenance and prosper the same what sweet concurrence of providences how then difficulties have most sensibly been taken out of the way yea wind and tyde going along with them in such a manner that they have been forced to see and confesse a divine hand therein FIFH Instance is the promise of Pardon and forgivenes which God hath given his People in the Word that for his names sake he will blot out their iniquity and remember their sin no more yea is ready to pardon which is expresly held forth to these who are truely humbled Mic. 7 18. Ier. 31 34. Is 43 25. Now that there is a real accomplishment of this I am sure the experience of the saints can in all ages clearly witnes what joy and peace this hath occasioned what a sensible demonstration and solemn confirmations they have had of this promise
so as their very bones might sing Who is like unto the o Lord It is true real pardon of sin doth not allwayes inferre the sensible feeling thereof and when it is remitted in Heaven there is not alwayes a declaration of it in the conscience but it is also sure that this is sensibly felt and that it is tryed by all even all the generation of the righteous to have had as powerful an operation on a disquiet troubled soul as ever wine or the choisest cordial could have on the sick or faint O! if these who question this were in their case to whom God speaketh peace after a storm they should know how real and certain that is I would offer the Christians witnes to this promise from many many experiments by vvhich the Lord hath sealed it to their soul whereby they know assuredly it is no fancy or delusion 1. How this hath as sensible a connexion with the serious exercise of contrition and repentance in their experience as it certainly hath in the word and promise while they find that in silence and keeping up their case from God their bones have been troubled their spirit in a restles and disquiet condition untill once they made an addresse and got their soul vented by confessing to â—he Lord which was then like a kindly turn and cool of a fever 2. They know it is no delusion that is found so certain a cure to a wounded spirit under the sense of sin a wound which the world and all its diversions could never heal whose pain and grief no musick can allay a drop of divine displeasure being enough to turn all their pleasures in wormwood and gall but O! a taste of this unspeakable cordial one warming look of a reconciled God they know by experience can give present ease 3. It is no delusion which they can command no more then the sun to shine when overclouded or the wind to blow but when it listeth which the most perswading moral arguments can no wayes effectuat nor all their former experience yea the letter of most refreshing promises which sometimes are to them but as the white of an egge without taste until once the spirit breath which not only discovereth the ground of their joy in the word but doth also cause them to rejoyce therein when it shineth upon the same 4. It must be no delusion which causeth so marvellous a change that after greatest disquieting fears they have found most sensible manifestations of love the greatest flood on the back of the lowest ebb in their spiritual condition which oft hath forced them to retreat what their feares and jealousies did utter yea have made them enquire with wonder whence they are so chearful to day who yesternight were so broken and crusht whence their spirit should be in so sweet a calm that so lately was like the raging and troubled sea 5. That this hath oft met them as a blest surprizal and unexpected welcom when they have in a backsliding case come in to God they certainly know that when they knew not how to adventure and at what end of their raveled condition to begin counts having run long over yet on their very first addresse have got a sweet disappointment to their feares been helped to their feet yea some times have had as it were the fatted calfe killed to make merry with their friends 6. That which hath an audible voice within so strong an Impression upon the soul which carryeth with it such a clear satisfying discovery of Gods heart and love is surely no delusion while the intimation of that one truth Your sins are forgiven or any other word of promise for that end they have found to be an argument beyond words which they could not resist but for the time have been as sure they see and feel this as that they live yea can no more now call it in question then formerly they could get it believed 7. That is no delusion which causeth them with another kinde of freedome approach to God maketh them know there is a Spirit of adoption which sets the soul at liberty from the sore bondage and thraldome under which their former backsliding had put them yea a thing not only sensibly felt by themselves but may be discerned by others while they cannot smoother the joy of their heart or hide in their couutenance such a change of their condition that truely God hath dealt comfortably with them 8. Hath not this the Saints in all ages witnessed even a joy unspeakable and full of glory which though but of short continuance yet for the present so strong as hath ravished their soul with the hope of the inheritance above and clear view of their interest in it yea sometimes made them sing for joy in expectation of that blessed day but O! this is better felt then expressed 9. And in a word can that be a delusion that hath oft turned the poor mans hell into a Heaven which trysts the Christian in the way of his duty and the work doth so exactly answer the promise most sensibly felt after greatest shakings of the conscience by the law and can make a sad outward lot so very sweet and pleasant cause them triumph over the wrath of men to sing in a dungeon to abound and have all things under greatest wants look grim death chearfully in the face in its most dreadful aspect yea doth make so great and visible a difference betwixt the Christian and himself SIXTH Instance Is that promise of encouragement and support under the crosse which is expresly held forth in the Word that the Lord will own his People bear their charges and be with them in trouble in the day of their suffering for his truth yea will bind up the broken in heart heal their wounds Psal 91 ver 15. Isai 43 ver 2. Cap. 41 ver 17. Cap. 49 ver 14. Psal 9 ver 9. Isai 51 ver 12. Now that this promise is a truth and hath a certain accomplishment the experience of the Saints in all ages will witnes and we know their testimony is true what at solemn times of Gods presence they have had in a barren wildernes how great a cloud of witnesse doth seal this and give their testimony to the crosse of Christ of which we may say the fame and sweet savour hath gone forth and spread abroad through the Church the Fathers have told it to the Children and one generation to another but hovv litle a part thereof can be expressed I think it would be a marvellous record if the suffering and prison experiments of the Saints vvere particularly set dovvn vvhat they have sound under the crosse but it is vvell vve knovv this promise hath been and this day is evidently sealed concerning which I dare attest the experience of as many as did ever drink of this blessed cup and were counted worthy to suffer for the testimony of Christ if this be not a faithful true witnes
favour and respect even from the worst then when they studied most to please them in a sinful way 12. That they never savv more clearly the gain and real advantage of Godlines and vvhat a difference there is betvvixt these that serve God and these that serve him not as in a time of trouble and strait hovv then tendernes in their former vvalk and that vvhich they entertained in the morning doth novv meet them at night and pay them home vvith advantage in ane houre of temptation 13. They vvere forced to observe that there vvas an invisible guard about his People in their duty that the ministry of the Angels tovvards such is no delusion and thar they have oft been made to vvonder hoâ— hazard vvithin an hairbreadth hath been prevented relief and help come as betvvixt the bridge and the vvater hovv they have been sensibly preserved amidst greatest dangers while as it were an inhibition hath been served upon these that they should come near but not hurt and only mett with them that they might read their preservation from them 14. That an enlarged heart doth meet with an enlarged allowance and bearing burthen with others of the People of God hath helped to make their own privat burthen the lighter 15. That real godlines and religion hath as much in hand as it may be a reward to its self which beautifieth the soul and maketh the face and conversation to shine with an observable lustre that guardeth and preserveth the heart from many vexing crosses preventeth sad stroakes and sorrowes that others are pierced with who will follow their idols and the wayes of sin which are bitter in the close In a word this is surely found that God is the best friend and when there is peace with him things without doe not offend but they shall then understand what it is to be in league with the beasts of the field and stones of the ground having a sweet aggreement with all the providences and dispensations that come in their way V. That the scripture threatnings have also a certain aceomplishment are found to be sad earnest do not fall to the ground the Christian can also seal from his experience It is not here to be understood the threatnings of wrath from which beleevers are freed in Christ but of a fatherly displeasure which because of sin may draw deep yea bring forth very dreadful effects to witnes rhat it is an evil bitter thing to depart from God that their own doings shall chastise them these threatnings of the Covenant if thy children for sake my law I will punish their transgressions with rods c. Ps 89 ver 30. are sure truths which want not in every time a performance To clear this ere I speak any thing particularly I would premit somethings to be considered 1. That the word is a perpetual rule which in every time must take place and though affliction is a peece of the common misery of man yet doth it not arise out of the dust neither fall out at an adventure but doth oft visibly follow the tract of sin as a slouth-hound pointing at such evils as the cause by the stroak at the truth and fulfilling of the threatnings written upon both 2. We should adore his soveraignty whose way both in the measure and manner of his peoples chastisement is so various as that none can infallibly conclude what he is to do in such a case I mean we are not to limit the Lord to such a way and method in his working yet this we may assert and firmly conclude that not only the threatnings of the word have a performance but men may also have even before hand some more then probable conjecture yea a clear discovery what such a case doth threaten what will be the issue of a sinful course by considering the Lords ordinary procedure both with themselves and others how sin hath very â—â—d effects and his way in all ages is still uniforme agreeing with its selfe with the word 3. Though a gracious state doth surely priviledge from wrath and condemnation yet not from affliction sad stroaks of divine anger because of sin for he taketh vengeance on mens inventions even when he will spare the inventors 4. The Lord doth oft contend with his people for their folly and miscarriages more severely then with others will not let passe in them that which he passeth by in the world without being a reprover but when light and love and the law â—â—ll not hedge in their way he will set briars and thornes before them yea speak by chastisement upon their bones to withdraw men from their purpose 5. It is known how very deep the holy anger of God may draw against his children even sometimes to pursue them out of the land of the living and follow them to the grave with some remarkable stroak yea it hath made them dreadful examples of judgment in this life for whom he hath accepted an eternal sacrifice in Christ 6. I shall adde this is the Lords blessed end in making out his threatnings against his people that they should not perish with the worâ—â— O what a blest exchange is it that the flaming sword which once stood to guard the tree of life doth now stand as it were in the way of the saincts to keep them from running into the pathes of death Having premitted these things I shall now instance some particular evils wherewith the godly are ready to be overtaken which the word doth expresly threaten and hold forth the hazard of both as to outward and spiritual stroakes and give in here the Christians witnes from their experience in all ages of the truth of these threatnings FIRST Securitly carnal confidence which we finde the word doth threaten is an evil wherewith Christians are ready to be overtaken but they do also know by sad experience what bitter fruit this doth bring forth and that therein the word falleth not to the ground whilest from frequent tryal they finde First that a secure condition is the usual forerunner of some sad change that when they are most at ease in a dul and dead temper of spirit some sharp rousing dispensation is upon the back of it either a grosse sin or a searching crosse as a thorn in the bed of their security to put them to their feeâ— Hos 7 9 12. Hos 2 8 9. 2 That seldom reckoning with the conscience the running on of counts for sometime upon their hand doth ravel their case unto a sad confusion maketh it a bitter and heartlesse work to retire alone or within themselves yeâ— hath a most direct tendency to a further hardening real upgiving with their dnty 3. That when security deadnes groweth within it qnickly maketh them dry up wither without in the external performance of duty in that vigorous lively appearance which did formetly lustre their walk carriage before others so as very by
truely this is oft seen as an usual attendant on reformation how unsuperable like difficultyes and unexpected lets do grow up in the vvay thereof thus â—hen Luther and other instruments were raised up in Germany to pursue the Churches Reformation what cruel edicts were then set forth to give it a dash division among themselves the rising up of the Boors and Anabaptists what a pure and through reformation was on foot under Edvvard the sixth in England vvhat a dreadful storm did quickly break it up for that time and I vvouldadde vvhat the present case of the Church in Brittain and Ireland may at this day vvitness vvhere once the Lord so eminently appeared in a begun Reformation vvhich novv is at so great a stand but let us go in to the scripture vvith this and vve vvill find 1. There is a vive portraicture of providence in the affaires of the Church held forth in that vision which Ezekiel had of the wheeles at the river Chebar whose misterious motions and turnings so cross one to the other without any discord therein as to the end to which they were directed doth witnes the rational and wise conduct of providence the Lords work about his Church is a most shadowed and elaborat piece which men cannotsee before their eye as they see behind upon a review while ordinary causes do oft vary in their operation yea goe out of the common road yet the Scripture will make this very plain 2. Was not Nehemiah Ezra and Zerobabel at their work and duty and had an expresse call for building of the temple yet how great and frequent interruptious did they find sometimes environed with difficulties Zach. 4 ver 7. Who are thou great mountain before Zerobahel Yea they were put to hold the sword and build to watch and work at once because of their enemies 3. What a very sore backset was the Church at Hab. 3. Revive they work ô Lord in the midst of the yeares this was both a great and long interruption yea doe we not find her almost at a non plus with a queree which no visible appearance could answer by whom shall Iacob arise for he is smell 4. We find a special reformation set on foot by Hezekiah with a solemn Covenant by the Princes Priests and body of the People with a setting up of the pure Worship and ordinances of God but lo a sharp storm is soon after by Sennacherib yeaâ— Hezekiah scarcely is in his grave when his Son doth bring in corruption and persecution both at once yea when the Christian Church in the times of the Apostles begun to flowrish successe following the Gospel did not a sad interruption and scattering follow Act 8. 5. This is promised that Zions walls shall even in troublsome times be built and her being brought to a heap of rubbish was but making way for a further advance that in the building of her again the Lord might appear in his glory and is it not clear that Christs coming in the Gospel and power thereof to purge his Church and to carry on a reformation Mal. 3. ver 2. proveth a searching and trying time which men cannot endure for the power of the Word and clear discovery of sin and other shaking dispensations which doe usually attend such times and torment them who dwell on the earth yea and put the Devil and corruption of men aloft with all rage to oppose the same 3. That a sad overclouding and darknes should come on a land after most special manifestation of the power and glory of God therein and that a time of the Gospel with much light should be so neer a forerunner of wrath and judgement would seem a strange piece of providence and cause a serious enquiry hovv such eminent appearances of God for a people such great confirmations observable success for a time vvith many signal encouragements should all seem to resolve in a desolating stroke and ruine This may be instanced in that protestant vvar in France vvhere instruments vvere remarkably raised fitted of the Lord for the service of that time had much of his presence and countenance yet to resolve thus in a bloody massacre likevvayes these confederat German Princes Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse Men eminent for piety caried forth vvith much zeal for God for defence of the truth yea in the beginning of that vvar having many promising encouragements yet remarkably deserted of the Lord vvith very sad-like consequences follovving the same Let us consider also the late Bohemian vvar stated upon necessary defence of religion and liberty and at first attended with some smiling providences should resolve into so great a desolation and ruine yea the Church of Ireland O what a dreadful massacre of the protestants there did quickly follow one of the most solemn times of the power of God and outpowring of the spirit that we ever heard of since the dayes of the Apostles I confesse this may have a strange aspect and is a part of the marvellous wayes of the Lord but when we take it in to the word we will find there is no jar or discord here for 1. It might seem as strange and astonishing what Baruch got from the Lord in answer to his compliant Ierem. 45. that he would pluck up what he had planted and cast down that which he had built for a work to be thus throwen down where the Lord had once so eminently appeared given his People many confirmations might then occasion great thoughts of heart yet the unspotted righteousnes of God and his truth was apparent therein yea after that discourse and all these large promise which Christ gave his disciples in that sixteenth of Iohn we find all is shut up with that the houre is comming and now is that ye shall be scattered 2. What strange providences did tryst the Church in the wildernes sometime brought back to the red sea tryed with hunger and nakednesse consumed with various strokes and many yeares wandring until most of that generation who came out of Egypt filled their graves in the journey and yet this was after most eminent confirmations and as clear singes of Gods presence as ever a People had 3. We find a publick reformation most zealously prosecute by Iosias which looked like the renewed espousales of that land with God by a solemn Covenant yet quickly after night came on that land with a long captivity and Josias did fall by the sword 4. Was there nor a bright sun-blink flowrishing plantation of the Gospel in Judea a little before the desolation of that land by the Romans yea we will find it clear from the word that times of much light and reformation doe much sooner ripen for a stroke then any other times 5 It is very manifest that particular Churches have their day where the Gospel hath its appointed work and their stroke at last may reach the length of removing the candlestick I truely think that sad instance of Bohemia's case may
that People hath yet been brought in to Christ 3. We have much ground from the Scripture that this day this great day of Iezreel shall be a very remarkable and solemn time which will even cause astonishment to the Nations about and make a wonderful change on the face of the earth a time of Gods eminent appearance for that People when his singular respect shall be as manifest as formerly his great displeasure and anger was a time on which many of the choisest mercyes of the Church do certainly wait the return of many prayers a large pouring forth of the Spirit even on the body of that People and all ranks not only the familyes of David Nathan and Levi but also the families of Shimei with a large outletting of gifts yea such a time wherein the converted of Israel shall then see and understand how far the glory of the second Temple doth exceed that of the first and shall be a very conspicuous part of Christs universal Kingdome eminent for the power and purity of the ordinances to which others shall look as to a most choise and excellent pattern of a purely reformed and glorious Church 4. Besids the promise of him who is not like maâ— to lie or the son of man to repent there wants not some very convincing providences to confirm our faith anent this if we consider how this People are still kept by themselves amidst all their scatterings not mixt or incorporat with other Nations which is most usual through long converse that People of several parts of the earth will unite and joyn in one is not their great increase also remarkable What great multitudes of them are in the eastern parts yea through most of Asia in Africk and in these places of Europe where the Christian Church is and all this time their land not possessed but by a rabble of the Turks under whose yoke they groan and though the genealogies of particular families are at this day much lost yet there is still so much sure and evident as to the series and genealogy of the Nation that doth difference them from any other People 5. It is true the authority of the word should silence all our thoughts how so great a thing shall be brought about yet we may judge that as a mean this shall eminently contribute to the same such a convincing stroke upon Antichrist which must go before their conversion wherein so manifest an appearance of God and the fulfilling of one of the greatest promises of the New Testament cannot but then stare them in the face and with this the taking away of that stumbling block of idolatry which hath so long helpt to harden them against the profession of the Gospel I must shut up this with a sad regrate that whilest we have so clear a promise there is no more tender respect and further essay to promot the good of that People who knoweth what a blessing might attend the use of ordinary meanes since this is an unquestionable duty and men know not when they sow the seed whither this or that shall prosper alace that the usual deportment of Christians with whom they converse doth oft further help to highten their prejudice against Christianity let us long and pray more for this day a day which shall bring so great a blessing with it to the gentiles III. There are many prophecyes both in the Old and New Testament which do clearly point at a great flowrishing and prosperity in the dayes of the Gospel which I humbly conceive are not yet fully made out but shall have a more remarkable accomplishment before the close of time Isai 60. ver 13. Isai 65 ver 25. Isai 66 ver 12. Mich. 4 ver 1 2. I confesse the event will be the surest commentar and until this appear men should be sober and cautious that they darken not the counsel of God and his truth with any wilde fancy and aim to be wise above that which is written yet I must think that with sobriery and on solid grounds it may be safe to judge that there are great things laid up in these promises for the Church that we cannot now well reach yea would scarce get believed until the appointed time unvaile their meaning I shall here but onely touch â—ow it may appear these promises are not yet fully accomplished and what with a safe warrant we may expeâ—â— in their accomplishment as to the first we would consider these things 1. That these great promises which hold forth so eminent an enlargement and flowrishing of the Church do also point at some particular limited time some period and revolution of the Churches condition which is not agreable and common to other times until which these promises do not take place 2. This promised flowrishing concerneth both Jewes and Gentiles and the word doth clearly point at some further encrease of the gâ—ntil Church by the calling of the Jewes which must have a peculiar respect to that solemn time of Israels restauration and Antichrists ruin a time on which the return of many prayers and the fulfilling of many promises in the behalfe of the Church doth surely wait so that as Esay and other of the Prophets do put over this great flowrishing of the Church to the dayes of the Gospel the Apostle Rom. 11. doth point at a more precise time wherein this in a larger measure shall be made out 3. We cannot find the Christian Church did ever enjoy so great an enlargement and flowrishing state as these promises seem to import for persecution and suffering hath most been her lot first from the Jewes next from her heathen adversaries and last from Antichrist whose fall and ruin we have ground to expect shall make room for so great an increase of the Church for how much power Antichrist hath in so far is the Church keepe under yea it is clear how very short all her breathings have been 4. It would appear so solemn a time of the Churches flowrishing whereat the Prophets did so oft point as it hath an undoubted respect to the dayes of the Gospel so in its full accomplishment must answer to that remarkable day of Satans binding and the Saints Reigne with Christ when the Kingdoms of the Earth become the Lords which we find doth immediatly preceede Satans last lousing and his going forth to gather his broken forces for that great battle which is to be very near the end I shall but adde we have ground to judge the Lord will usher in that glorious everlasting state of the Church even by some preparative degrees here the latter times are therefore to be reckoned the more blessed the more near they approach to the dawning of glory Now in the second place I shall but point at somethings which with a safe warrant we may understand and look after in the accomplishment of these promises It is very clear they hold forth a great enlargement to the universal Church both of Jewes and Gentiles
which of all their doctrine do most directly contradict the Scripture as the merit of works purgatory praying for the dead c. Bus as we will not boast of such as the authority or proof of our doctrine so we judge it a grave and a concerning duety to observe the wondrous work of the Lord in our times yea to make a diligent search thereanent that we may tell posterity some of these great acts of our God for his Church in bringing her again from Babell I would desire to be very tender and cautious upon such a subject for I judge it horrid divinity to make a lye for God it is not the truth but a false way which requireth such a help and truely anent these following instances which are but a few of many that might be brought if there were more serious enquiry I dare attest the Lord the great witnes that I have not knowingly set down here any thing false yea not without some diligent search and satisfying grounds anent the certainty thereof I judge it not necessary to repeat these which are so known already to the World from publick records and therefore shall but briefly point at some of these and adde a few moe particular instances of this kinde which I may with some confidence bring to the light from clear evidences of the truth thereof I shall first mention that solemn testimony of Mr Baynam in Queen Maryes time who in the midst of the fire whilest his body was all in a flame his armes and legs halfe burnt cryed out to bystanders O Papists ye look after miracles lo here is one I am now burning in this fire but feels no more pain then if I were in a bed of roses O must not this be called a miracle and an extraordinary seal from the Lord to his ttuth wherein the World would consider this was the testimony of one who was upon the borders of eternity which he did declare before a great multitude attested by Mr Fox that holy servant of Christ who in things of that kinde so extraordinary was most cautious and did much search out the truth and certainty of what he sets down and by him was published whilest many of that time who might have been present were alive yea it is the more remarkable the sharp combat that this Martyr had through the terrour of the fire a little before his death fearing he should never be able to endure the same What a remarkable providence was that at a town in the Low Countryes whilest some of the Saints were put to death by the Popish party and among these one Michael Bomboutius a Deacon of the reformed Church whilest they were going to suffer about midday the Heavens being most clear there came suddenly so great a darknes and so horrible and unusual a tempest which was onely in that place and above that city discerned that men were generally shaken with fear thinking there should be a present dissolution of the World this famous Voetius in that piece de signis doth witnes that from divers there present even some of them popish he had this related to himselfe and as he sayeth suchâ—â— thing Papists would have with greatest observation published as the very finger of God if they had the same occasion At a town Alsa in Westslanders whilest a godly man whom the Inquisition there had pursued was leading to the stake and was by the way singing Psalmes thâ— Captain of these who guarded him was so enraged that he caused presently his tongue be plucked out by the rootes but loâ— a few moneths after this wretched man hath a Childe born with his tongue hanging out a great way which by no meanes could be keepâ— within his mouth this Doctor Hall being himselâ—â— afterwards in that town had shewed him from some who were most considerable there as he sets down in his Epistles Charles the IX of France vvho was author of that horrid Massacre where the blood of many thousand Protestants at Paris and other parts was shed did a very little after dye in the strength of his years by an extraordinary effusion of blood from all passages of his body that as Du Serres and other french vvriters of that time do shew he was made to vvallow in his own blood before his death O vvas not this the very finger of God a most convincing stupendious piece of his judgement What an extraordinary providence vvas that vvhich is attested by divers vvitnesses thereto in the late bloody Massacre of Ireland a young vvoman vvho by the Irishes vvas stript almost naked and after by one of them threatned that except she vvould give him her money he vvould forthvvith run her through to vvhich she gravely ansvvered I knovv you cannot kill me except God give you leave whereupon he did three 〈◊〉 with his sword run at her naked body but could not once pierce her skin which did so confound this wretched man that with a kinde of horrour he went away and ceased to trouble her further Did not God wonderfully appear in the raising of the late King of Sweden with that astonishing successe which did attend him in breaking the power of the house of Austria whilest they were at so great an height and had their hands hot reeking in the blood of the Protestants through Bohemia and other places of Germany O but the Lords hand might be clearly seen in acting forth and fitting that party of the Swedes for such a piece of his service even in a more then ordinary vvay vvho like that he goat mentioned in Damel did come so swiftly that they touched not the ground as it were but like a mighty speate bare down all before them The breaking of that great Spanish Armado in the Year 88. which had been 3 Yeares in contriving did convincingly witnes a divine hand opposing the same and how remarkable was that issue of all the Counsels expence and cruelty which Philip the second had made use of to bear down the rising of the Gospel in the Netherlands for it is notour that after many essayes the losse of an 100 Millions of gold with near 400000 Lives the reckoning of all his gain and purchase was only the losse of considerable part of these countryes and helping fordward the establishment of the united Provinces and truely we must say the Lord did by his great and outstretched hand wonderfully appear in raising that Common wealth so that they may date their flowrishing in outward interests from their owning of the interests of God Religion did raise them and no People this day hath more cause and are under greater engadgements to be zealous for the truth and defence of the Protestant Cause The breaking of that formidable league of the Catholicks in France for rooting out the Protestant Religion there was very wonderful how all their Counsels and designes should resolve in their own ruin so that the most ordinary onlookers could not but see a divine hand
last dayes it vvould be of great use and profit to the Church that some more fitly qualified vvould study a more large collection of this kinde O that this might go forth vvith a blessing from him vvho by the meanest things can serve himself promote the ediâ—icaaion of his Church and that the Lord vvould raise some up vvith much of his Spirit to make a further search and enquiry in this great and vveiguty truth ERRATA PAge 12 Line 1 for very read every pag. 45 lin 2 for ate r. are p. 77 lin 10 for securitly r. sccurity p. 90 lin 18. for were r. where pag. 94 lin 13 for plaines r. plainness p. 105 liu 26 for most r. must p. 167 lin 9 for hash r. harsh p. 185 len 3 for therefore r. thereof p. 108 lin 1. for Alba r. Alva pag. 214 lin 25. for cruches r crutches pag. 217 lin 11 for III r. 2. p. 220 lin 1 for IV r. III. p. 255 l. 31 for petioned r. petitioned p. 285 lin 11 for observation r. observable Other such fmaller escapes as one letter for another or wrong pointing will not hinder an intelligent Reader The fulfilling of the SCRIPTURE THere are two meanes by which the blessed Majesty of God hath chosen to reveal himself to the sons of men his Word and his Works which may be called these two great Luminaries for giving light to the Church though the one be greater I mean doth more clearly shine forth yea doth communicate light to the other these men must not divide which by so strait a tye the Lord hath joyned and by a mervellous correspondence hath set the one over against the other that it may be easy to see his faithfulnes and the accomplishment of the Scripture therein and indeed this is a great concerning truth that calleth for a serious study the solid persuasion of which should affoord a svveet ground of repose and rest for the soul though the earth were all in a combustion ronnd about and give a satisfying answer to our most sollicitous thoughts and feares Now this being the intended subject of the following discourse I shall first touch it a little in the general and then hold forth some more particular grounds whence it may be clearly demonstrated I. That the Scripture of God hath a certain accomplishment here in the World and what is to be understood by the same I shall endeavour to clear in these things which would be considered 1. This is the very unfolding of the Lords decree and secret purpose the bringing forth of his work now within time to the view of Angels and Men which was before him in the deep of his thoughts and counsel from eternity it is an opening up of the sealed book which we must not understand to be that secret roll of election and the book of life wherein the names of the elect are writ but Liber fatidicus the sealed book of Gods dispensations in the World shewing out his counsels and designes which should be brought forth in the after ages of time for as the Lord did fully comprehend what he was to do and all that was to befal his Church and People from the beginning to the end long long before there was a beginning before the mountaines were formed so hath he copyed and written out his heart in the Word hereanent wherein he hath most plainly shewed forth what were his blessed purposes and counsel of old and thus the thoughts of his heart his Word and his works do sweetly aggree and each one wonderfully answers to another for his work doth bring forth and accomplish his Word that his decree and counsel from all eternity may take place 2. The Scriptures accomplishment is the transcript and writing of it over in providence where we may see and admire how the Word doth shine upon all the pathes and footsteps of the Lord toward his Church in every age and gives light to the same and what an evident reflection his work hath again upon the Word so that through the whole series and course of providence in the earth we have a most exact portraicture and image of the Scripture answering one to another as face answers to face in the glasse where it may be easy to discern the copy by the principale and that resemblance which is betwixt the building and that excellent pattern and model which is held forth thereof in the Word 3. The accomplishment of the Scripture is the very turning that which was the object of our faith and contemplation to be the object of our sense and feeling it is the real birth and bringing forth these truths unto the World in their appointed time and season concerning the Church and particular Christians which were hid in that womb of the promise and many dark predictions of the Word it is such a thing as giveth the promises and Prophecyes a visible being yea bringeth truth so near within the reach of our senses that we may even touch as it were and handle the Words of life O what an excellent interpreter is experience Tast and see for thus the serious Christian getteth a view of the Scripture and spiritual things which the most subtil and piercing eye of unsanctified Schoolmen cannot reach yea by the practice of truth nearnes to God ahd retiring of the soul to him hath oft got more light in ane houre then others by many dayes putting their judgement and invention upon the rack 4. This is Gods own seale which he pntteth to the Word to confirm and ratify the same I do not only mean that secret seale of the Spirit within but something more external that solemn testimony of his workes whereby he doth every day appeal mens consciences anent his truth for his works are very manifest whereon there is so clear an ingravening of his truth and faithfulness that as the impresse and image of the seal is upon the wax men may also see whose superscription and image that is which doth appear on such and such passages of providences 5. This is something we are not to seek onely in the extraordinary acts of providence or in any singular and eminent path of a christian experience nay it doth shine forth in the smallest and most casual things that falls out yea in every Page of that great Volumn of providence may be clearly read 6. The Scriptures accomplishment is such a thing as concerns every Christian in his personal case to which his ordinary experience doth relate whereof these have a large register what of the Word hath been certainly proven in the several steps and changes of their life whose practice doth much ly betwixt improvement of the Word and observation how it is fulfilled such can witnes how under a spiritual decay to be carnally minded is death and when it s well that great peace they have who love Gods Law they have oft found that in a strait he is a very present help and in the way