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grace_n faith_n justification_n sanctification_n 4,477 5 10.0495 5 true
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A35955 Therapeutica sacra shewing briefly the method of healing the diseases of the conscience, concerning regeneration / written first in Latine by David Dickson ; and thereafter translated by him. Dickson, David, 1583?-1663. 1664 (1664) Wing D1408; ESTC R24294 376,326 551

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all_o matter_n do_v stand_v between_o god_n and_o we_o second_o that_o we_o inform_v the_o conscience_n well_o from_o the_o scripture_n not_o only_o concern_v the_o law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n whereby_o we_o may_v know_v how_o guilty_a we_o be_v of_o manifold_a sin_n and_o how_o impossible_a it_o be_v for_o we_o to_o be_v justify_v by_o our_o work_n or_o to_o escape_v condemnation_n but_o also_o concern_v the_o gospel_n and_o covenant_n of_o gracious_a reconciliation_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o concern_v the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n whereupon_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n offer_v in_o christ_n be_v ground_v three_o that_o we_o make_v due_a and_o orderly_a application_n of_o these_o covenant_n that_o the_o conscience_n may_v always_o be_v furnish_v with_o mater_fw-la of_o humiliation_n and_o hold_v on_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o not_o only_o keep_v from_o desperation_n but_o also_o may_v be_v furnish_v with_o ground_n of_o good_a hope_n to_o be_v save_v through_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n who_o have_v purchase_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n to_o every_o humble_a sinner_n fly_v to_o he_o for_o grace_n four_o that_o be_v ingra_v in_o christ_n by_o faith_n we_o by_o way_n of_o thankfulness_n study_v in_o the_o furniture_n of_o his_o spirit_n to_o live_v holy_o just_o and_o sober_o and_o that_o whatsoever_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n we_o attain_v unto_o we_o beware_v to_o fall_v back_o to_o that_o deadly_a error_n of_o seek_v justification_n before_o god_n by_o our_o work_n whereunto_o we_o be_v natural_o incline_v for_o upon_o this_o rock_n the_o flour_n and_o most_o shine_a professor_n in_o israel_n after_o the_o flesh_n make_v shipwreck_n of_o their_o salvation_n rome_n 9_o 32._o israel_n which_o follow_v after_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n have_v not_o attain_v unto_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n wherefore_o because_o they_o seek_v it_o not_o by_o faith_n but_o as_o it_o be_v by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n and_o rom._n 10._o 3._o for_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n have_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n unto_o this_o error_n of_o seek_v righteousness_n by_o our_o work_n after_o enter_v in_o the_o way_n of_o justification_n by_o grace_n we_o be_v all_o natural_o incline_v for_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v so_o engrave_v in_o all_o adam_n child_n do_v this_o and_o live_v that_o hardly_o can_v we_o renounce_v this_o way_n of_o justification_n and_o howsoever_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v righteousness_n this_o way_n yet_o hardly_o can_v we_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n which_o not_o only_o the_o experience_n of_o israel_n after_o the_o flesh_n make_v manifest_a but_o also_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o galatian_n let_v we_o see_v for_o they_o have_v once_o outward_o renounce_v justification_n by_o work_n and_o embrace_v the_o covenant_n of_o gracious_a reconciliation_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n do_v turn_v about_o for_o a_o time_n to_o seek_v justification_n by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n and_o be_v on_o the_o way_n of_o fall_v from_o grace_n and_o communion_n with_o christ._n and_o the_o experience_n of_o papist_n do_v show_v the_o same_o for_o whatsoever_o they_o profess_v concern_v faith_n in_o christ_n yet_o they_o abhor_v justification_n by_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n and_o do_v blaspheme_v that_o way_n as_o a_o mere_a conceit_n of_o man_n and_o a_o putatitious_a or_o only_a imaginary_a righteousness_n and_o do_v seek_v to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n and_o to_o be_v justify_v not_o only_o before_o man_n but_o also_o before_o god_n by_o the_o merit_n of_o their_o own_o and_o other_o man_n work_n and_o suffering_n the_o imputation_n whereof_o they_o can_v tell_v for_o money_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o blaspheme_v the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n what_o can_v be_v say_v for_o a_o thief_n condemn_v to_o die_v for_o his_o fault_n and_o redeem_v by_o a_o potent_a man_n upon_o condition_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v the_o domestic_a servant_n of_o the_o redeemer_n to_o work_v his_o work_n all_o his_o life-time_n and_o live_v upon_o his_o allowance_n and_o so_o never_o be_v necessitate_v to_o steal_v any_o more_o if_o the_o ransom_a thief_n shall_v after_o steal_v his_o master_n good_n and_o make_v himself_o a_o stock-purse_n whereupon_o he_o think_v he_o may_v live_v and_o loose_v himself_o from_o his_o redeemer_n grace_n and_o live_v upon_o his_o own_o find_n be_v he_o not_o worthy_a upon_o the_o find_v out_o of_o his_o thift_n and_o other_o fault_n to_o be_v leave_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o justice_n to_o die_v according_a to_o his_o deserve_n and_o what_o can_v be_v say_v for_o a_o tennent_fw-fr labour_v a_o parcel_n of_o ground_n of_o his_o landlord_n for_o a_o yearly_a farm-duty_n by_o his_o own_o miscarriage_n fall_v to_o beggary_n if_o he_o shall_v be_v take_v in_o to_o the_o free_a table_n of_o his_o landlord_n and_o trust_v with_o the_o same_o parcel_n of_o ground_n to_o be_v labour_v for_o his_o master_n use_n if_o he_o shall_v intervert_fw-la the_o fruit_n of_o that_o ground_n and_o be_v weary_a of_o his_o master_n bounty_n and_o grace_n shall_v seek_v to_o be_v fire_v of_o his_o master_n service_n and_o to_o labour_v the_o ground_n for_o himself_o for_o payment_n of_o rent_n if_o upon_o the_o find_v out_o of_o his_o thift_n and_o not_o payment_n of_o his_o rent_n he_o shall_v be_v cast_v in_o prison_n do_v he_o not_o deserve_v to_o be_v deal_v with_o according_a to_o justice_n who_o will_v not_o live_v by_o grace_n so_o may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o man_n who_o shall_v turn_v from_o justification_n by_o free_a grace_n to_o seek_v justification_n by_o his_o work_n the_o five_o and_o last_o use_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v that_o to_o the_o intent_n we_o may_v not_o absolve_v ourselves_o without_o god_n allowance_n we_o study_v to_o make_v our_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a by_o endeavour_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o illdeserving_a and_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o any_o thing_n without_o christ_n to_o rely_v on_o he_o for_o righteousness_n and_o life-eternal_a and_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o draw_v spirit_n and_o life_n from_o he_o for_o furnish_v we_o unto_o new_a obedience_n for_o he_o be_v the_o justify_v man_n approven_v of_o god_n who_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n and_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o worship_v god_n in_o the_o spirit_n philip._n 3._o 3_o the_o second_o book_n chap._n i._n of_o consideration_n to_o be_v pr●●sed_v hitherto_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o unregenerat_a man_n be_v speak_v to_o and_o this_o be_v needful_a to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v show_v how_o regeneration_n be_v either_o altogether_o keep_v off_o or_o hinder_v from_o grow_v where_o it_o be_v begin_v and_o because_o many_o of_o these_o sickness_n which_o destroy_v many_o of_o the_o son_n of_o adam_n cleave_v to_o the_o regenerate_a man_n and_o though_o they_o do_v not_o reign_v nor_o altogether_o prevail_v over_o he_o yet_o do_v molest_v and_o vex_v he_o and_o hinder_v his_o comfortable_a walk_n towards_o his_o everlasting_a blessedness_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v first_o in_o this_o book_n of_o these_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v which_o do_v brangle_v and_o bring_v in_o question_n his_o state_n in_o grace_n and_o make_v he_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v a_o man_n translate_v out_o of_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n or_o not_o and_o next_o of_o these_o case_n that_o concern_v his_o condition_n in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o follow_a book_n as_o to_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o case_n which_o concern_v the_o regenerate_a man_n state_n some_o consideration_n must_v be_v premise_v for_o make_v particular_n afterward_o more_o clear_a 1._o in_o the_o question_n of_o this_o or_o that_o man_n regeneration_n or_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n it_o be_v all_o one_o to_o question_v whether_o he_o be_v bear_v again_o or_o be_v effectual_o call_v or_o endue_v with_o save_v faith_n or_o be_v a_o justify_v man_n or_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n or_o be_v a_o adopt_a child_n and_o in_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o question_n let_v it_o be_v prove_v that_o he_o be_v any_o of_o these_o and_o it_o be_v prove_v also_o that_o he_o be_v all_o these_o for_o albeit_o these_o denomination_n in_o their_o formal_a conception_n in_o the_o abstract_n may_v be_v distinguish_v yet_o upon_o the_o mater_fw-la in_o the_o conceit_n they_o fall_v upon_o the_o same_o individual_a person_n altogether_o because_o it_o be_v impossible_a
the_o son_n of_o god_n but_o his_o holy_a heart_n can_v not_o admit_v such_o a_o temptation_n and_o the_o apostle_n eph._n 6._o 11_o 12._o etc._n etc._n do_v warn_v the_o saint_n that_o our_o adversary_n satan_n use_v to_o throw_v fiery_a dart_n at_o all_o the_o child_n of_o god_n which_o fiery_a and_o poisonable_a dart_n the_o regenerate_a man_n shall_v not_o meddle_v with_o nor_o finger_v they_o but_o by_o the_o shield_n of_o faith_n with_o all_o speed_n quench_v and_o extinguish_v they_o but_o when_o a_o probable_a reason_n be_v join_v with_o the_o temptation_n and_o the_o temptation_n do_v appear_v to_o be_v very_o reasonable_a and_o when_o there_o be_v a_o fear_n that_o the_o tentation_n shall_v be_v yield_v unto_o except_o the_o scruple_n be_v remove_v then_o let_v the_o temptation_n be_v examine_v and_o bring_v to_o the_o form_n of_o a_o reason_n or_o sylogism_n that_o the_o strength_n of_o it_o be_v try_v to_o be_v null_a it_o may_v be_v reject_v or_o let_v the_o temptation_n be_v communicate_v to_o a_o prudent_a friend_n or_o pastor_n who_o may_v discover_v the_o sophistry_n of_o the_o temptation_n for_o if_o the_o temptation_n shall_v be_v slight_v and_o not_o discuss_v albeit_o it_o lie_v quiet_a for_o a_o time_n yet_o it_o will_v return_v again_o and_o raise_v more_o trouble_n and_o vexation_n to_o the_o conscience_n than_o it_o do_v before_o 11._o in_o answer_v of_o doubt_n and_o temptation_n tend_v to_o weaken_v faith_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o observe_v and_o ishew_v a_o usual_a stratagem_n of_o satan_n whereby_o he_o do_v multiply_v and_o heap_v together_o a_o number_n of_o doubt_n and_o after_o he_o have_v suggest_v one_o doubt_n present_o do_v suggest_v on_o the_o back_n of_o that_o another_o and_o after_o that_o another_o whereby_o he_o mar_v the_o answer_n of_o the_o first_o doubt_n which_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n either_o immediate_o or_o by_o some_o faithful_a friend_n or_o minister_n be_v offer_v for_o solution_n thereof_o by_o this_o mean_a satan_n endeavour_v that_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o afflict_a person_n may_v at_o one_o time_n both_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o answer_n offer_v and_o be_v take_v up_o whole_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o new_a suggest_a doubt_n so_o that_o the_o answer_n to_o the_o new_a doubt_n have_v no_o place_n because_o the_o afflict_a party_n do_v not_o take_v heed_n thereto_o in_o this_o case_n both_o the_o party_n afflict_v and_o the_o party_n offer_v consolation_n must_v hold_v to_o the_o first_o doubt_n and_o not_o suffer_v any_o other_o new_a doubt_n to_o have_v place_n till_o a_o satisfactory_a answer_n be_v give_v to_o the_o first_o doubt_n and_o after_o that_o let_v every_o objection_n move_v by_o the_o party_n afflict_v be_v answer_v one_o after_o another_o in_o order_n 12._o see_v every_o doubt_n whereby_o the_o regenerate_a person_n be_v trouble_v do_v tend_v either_o to_o weaken_v faith_n in_o christ_n or_o to_o hinder_v the_o bring_v forth_o of_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n let_v no_o answer_n to_o any_o doubt_n of_o this_o kind_n be_v esteem_v sufficient_a except_o it_o lead_v the_o afflict_a person_n unto_o christ_n teach_v he_o to_o humble_v himself_o before_o god_n and_o be_v bring_v low_o in_o his_o own_o eye_n to_o lay_v hold_n by_o faith_n on_o jesus_n christ_n the_o only_a redeemer_n and_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o after_o lay_v hold_n on_o the_o physician_n to_o request_v for_o the_o remedy_n of_o that_o evil_n which_o have_v move_v and_o give_v strength_n to_o the_o doubt_n for_o christ_n be_v the_o end_n both_o of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o every_o spiritual_a exercise_n for_o the_o enjoin_v of_o such_o and_o such_o moral_a duty_n whereby_o unskillful_a physician_n use_v to_o over-charge_n disease_a conscience_n command_v the_o afflict_a party_n in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o go_v about_o such_o and_o such_o duty_n and_o the_o exercise_n of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n as_o may_v remove_v the_o evil_n which_o give_v ground_n to_o the_o doubt_n can_v never_o avail_v the_o disease_a person_n except_o he_o be_v lead_v first_o unto_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o acceptation_n of_o his_o person_n that_o in_o he_o power_n to_o do_v these_o duty_n may_v be_v obtain_v and_o by_o his_o spirit_n moral_a precept_n may_v be_v quicken_v for_o if_o these_o precept_n be_v press_v upon_o the_o disease_a without_o christ_n they_o can_v do_v no_o more_o but_o detain_v the_o afflict_a in_o self_n confidence_n and_o make_v he_o hope_v in_o vain_a that_o he_o may_v or_o can_v by_o his_o own_o work_n overcome_v the_o evil_n feel_v in_o he_o or_o that_o he_o can_v by_o himself_o attain_v to_o that_o good_a which_o he_o conceive_v necessary_a for_o lose_v of_o his_o doubt_n but_o let_v he_o go_v to_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o then_o for_o strength_n to_o go_v about_o the_o duty_n 13._o because_o almost_o in_o all_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o pertain_v to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n some_o grace_n or_o christian_a virtue_n be_v pitch_v upon_o and_o call_v in_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o he_o or_o not_o heed_n must_v be_v take_v that_o evangelic_n grace_n virtue_n or_o action_n be_v not_o weigh_v in_o the_o balance_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n wherein_o nothing_o have_v weight_n which_o come_v short_a of_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o personal_a obedience_n for_o in_o the_o strict_a judgement_n of_o god_n and_o the_o conscience_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o work_n no_o mere_a man_n nor_o any_o action_n of_o man_n can_v stand_v ps._n 130._o 3._o for_o there_o be_v so_o many_o imperfection_n and_o blemish_n in_o the_o saint_n and_o their_o best_a work_n be_v compare_v with_o the_o perfect_a rule_n of_o righteousness_n by_o the_o law_n that_o whatsoever_o lustre_n or_o appearance_n of_o good_a may_v be_v in_o a_o work_n it_o be_v bleck_v and_o make_v to_o hide_v its_o face_n before_o the_o law_n but_o let_v the_o tender_a bud_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o fruit_n of_o faith_n be_v examine_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o judge_v of_o the_o begin_v obedience_n of_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o man_n aim_v at_o conformity_n to_o the_o law_n how_o short_a soever_o he_o come_v of_o his_o aim_n and_o of_o the_o spiritual_a perfection_n of_o the_o law_n and_o it_o will_v be_v take_v for_o new_a obedience_n it_o be_v true_a the_o evangel_n require_v that_o a_o man_n flee_v to_o christ_n for_o justification_n and_o reconcile_v to_o god_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n shall_v set_v himself_o to_o work_v the_o work_v prescribe_v in_o the_o moral_a law_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o shall_v aim_v at_o the_o exact_a obedience_n of_o all_o the_o command_n yet_o the_o gospel_n do_v not_o reject_v a_o good_a work_n for_o the_o defect_n imperfection_n and_o blemish_n thereof_o but_o accept_v and_o take_v in_o good_a part_n the_o first_o fruit_n and_o bud_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o do_v foster_v the_o tender_a and_o small_a beginning_n that_o they_o may_v grow_v and_o increase_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o gospel_n do_v not_o teach_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o justification_n of_o our_o person_n before_o god_n by_o work_n but_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o then_o teach_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o justification_n of_o our_o faith_n before_o man_n in_o our_o own_o and_o other_o conscience_n by_o the_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o therefore_o 14._o while_o we_o be_v about_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o wound_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o strengthen_n of_o faith_n we_o must_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n take_v heed_n leave_v we_o foster_v presumption_n and_o hinder_v either_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o do_v diligence_n in_o follow_v duty_n for_o christian_a grace_n do_v not_o impede_fw-la but_o help_v and_o strengthen_v one_o another_o if_o they_o be_v real_a and_o kind_o because_o they_o must_v flow_v from_o the_o same_o fountain_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o sanctification_n and_o do_v run_v towards_o the_o same_o end_n which_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n lest_o we_o press_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n as_o it_o be_v out_o of_o our_o own_o strength_n or_o the_o practice_n of_o duty_n so_o as_o we_o hinder_v the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n who_o be_v that_o exalt_a prince_n to_o give_v repentance_n and_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o faith_n let_v we_o so_o cry_v up_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n that_o we_o neglect_v not_o to_o press_v the_o regenerate_a man_n free_o justify_v by_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o
they_o shall_v never_o perish_v neither_o shall_v any_o man_n pluck_v they_o out_o of_o my_o hand_n etc._n etc._n but_o that_o we_o insist_v not_o too_o long_o in_o this_o argument_n whereof_o the_o orthodox_n divine_n have_v write_v abundant_o in_o their_o disputation_n against_o the_o foresay_a error_n because_o the_o adversary_n take_v their_o pretend_a argument_n from_o the_o instability_n of_o man_n will_n in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o perseverance_n and_o from_o the_o freedom_n and_o power_n of_o man_n changeable_a will_n in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o conversion_n and_o save_a faith_n and_o from_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o the_o mix_a multitude_n of_o both_o call_v and_o not_o choose_v and_o to_o they_o that_o be_v both_o call_v and_o choose_v we_o shall_v content_v our_o self_n for_o clear_v this_o covenant_n betwixt_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n mediator_n and_o redeemer_n to_o make_v the_o mater_fw-la fast_o concern_v the_o elect_a sound_v their_o conversion_n faith_n repentance_n perseverance_n and_o salvation_n upon_o the_o unchangeable_a covenant_n of_o redemption_n fix_v upon_o the_o settle_a agreement_n between_o god_n and_o god_n the_o son_n mediator_n and_o redeemer_n as_o shall_v be_v prove_v from_o five_o place_n of_o scripture_n the_o first_o proof_n be_v from_o vers_n 13._o of_o isa._n 52._o to_o the_o end_n of_o chap._n 53._o the_o first_o place_n be_v isa._n 52._o vers_fw-la 13._o and_o forward_o to_o the_o end_n of_o chapter_n 53._o where_o we_o have_v first_o the_o two_o party_n contracter_n god_n the_o father_n and_o christ_n for_o the_o father_n bring_v forth_o his_o confederate_a son_n to_o be_v incarnate_a by_o covenant_n his_o servant_n who_o he_o employ_v in_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o redemption_n as_o the_o meritorious_a cause_n and_o accomplisher_n of_o it_o behold_v my_o servant_n say_v god_n the_o father_n by_o his_o spirit_n speak_v by_o the_o prophet_n chap._n 52._o 13._o next_o both_o party_n be_v sure_a of_o the_o event_n of_o the_o paction_n and_o of_o the_o accomplish_n of_o the_o whole_a work_n glorious_o behold_v say_v he_o my_o servant_n shall_v deal_v prudent_o and_o prosperous_o he_o shall_v be_v exalt_v and_o extol_v and_o be_v very_o high_a vers_fw-la 13._o three_o he_o tell_v the_o proper_a price_n which_o christ_n the_o son_n shall_v pay_v for_o the_o redemption_n of_o his_o people_n agree_v upon_o by_o paction_n to_o wit_n the_o exinanition_n and_o humble_v of_o the_o son_n incarnate_a unto_o the_o ignominious_a death_n of_o the_o cross_n that_o his_o visage_n shall_v be_v mar_v more_o than_o any_o man_n and_o his_o form_n more_o than_o the_o son_n of_o man_n vers_fw-la 14._o and_o more_o particular_o chap._n 53._o 2._o he_o have_v no_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n and_o when_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o there_o be_v no_o beauty_n that_o we_o shall_v desire_v he_o he_o be_v despise_v and_o reject_v of_o man_n a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n and_o acquaint_v with_o grief_n etc._n etc._n vers_fw-la 2._o 3._o he_o be_v wound_v for_o our_o transgression_n vers_fw-la 5._o he_o shall_v make_v his_o soul_n a_o offering_n for_o sin_n vers_fw-la 10._o four_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n incarnate_a be_v assure_v and_o confirm_v of_o the_o sweet_a fruit_n of_o his_o passion_n in_o the_o conversion_n of_o many_o nation_n who_o he_o shall_v sprinkle_v with_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o sanctify_v by_o the_o water_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n chap._n 52._o 15._o he_o shall_v sprinkle_v many_o nation_n etc._n etc._n five_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v agree_v and_o well_o please_v in_o the_o conversion_n of_o so_o many_o as_o be_v elect_v and_o give_v to_o christ_n to_o have_v in_o he_o the_o right_a of_o adoption_n chap._n 53._o 10._o he_o shall_v see_v his_o seed_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v regenerate_v the_o elect_a and_o make_v they_o his_o child_n and_o see_v they_o so_o to_o his_o satisfaction_n six_o no_o meritorious_a nor_o impulsive_a cause_n be_v find_v in_o the_o person_n redeem_v for_o which_o the_o punishment_n due_a to_o they_o shall_v be_v transfer_v upon_o the_o mediator_n christ_n our_o redeemer_n for_o they_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o themselves_o but_o despiser_n of_o christ_n because_o of_o his_o suffering_n chap._n 53._o 4._o sure_o he_o have_v bear_v our_o grief_n and_o carry_v our_o sorrow_n yet_o we_o do_v esteem_v he_o strike_v smite_v of_o god_n and_o afflict_a seven_o no_o sin_n nor_o meritorious_a cause_n of_o punishment_n be_v find_v in_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n for_o which_o he_o shall_v be_v smite_v chap._n 53._o 5._o 9_o he_o be_v wound_v for_o our_o transgression_n he_o have_v do_v no_o violence_n neither_o be_v any_o deceit_n in_o his_o mouth_n eigth_o peace_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o heal_n of_o our_o sinful_a and_o miserable_a sickness_n and_o deliverance_n from_o wrath_n be_v purchase_v by_o the_o price_n of_o his_o blood_n chap._n 53._o 5._o the_o chastisement_n of_o our_o peace_n be_v upon_o he_o and_o with_o his_o stripe_n we_o be_v heal_v nine_o these_o suffering_n christ_n do_v not_o endure_v unwitting_o or_o unwilling_o but_o by_o consent_n by_o covenant_n deliberate_o chap._n 53._o 7._o he_o be_v oppress_v and_o he_o be_v afflict_v yet_o he_o open_v not_o his_o mouth_n he_o be_v bring_v as_o a_o lamb_n to_o the_o slaughter_n and_o as_o a_o sheep_n before_o his_o shearer_n be_v dumb_a so_o he_o open_v not_o his_o mouth_n ten_o the_o cause_n of_o this_o covenant_n whereby_o the_o price_n be_v call_v for_o a_o yield_v unto_o and_o pay_v be_v the_o only_a free_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o his_o good_a pleasure_n chap._n 53._o 10._o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o bruise_v he_o he_o have_v put_v he_o to_o grief_n eleven_o it_o be_v agree_v between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n that_o our_o sin_n shall_v be_v impute_v unto_o he_o and_o his_o righteousness_n impute_v unto_o we_o and_o that_o the_o redeem_v shall_v believe_v in_o he_o and_o so_o be_v justify_v chap._n 53._o 11._o he_o shall_v see_v of_o the_o travel_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o shall_v be_v satisfy_v by_o his_o knowledge_n or_o faith_n in_o he_o shall_v my_o righteous_a servant_n justify_v many_o for_o he_o shall_v bear_v their_o iniquity_n twelve_o it_o be_v agree_v between_o the_o party_n that_o for_o who_o christ_n shall_v lay_v down_o his_o life_n he_o shall_v stand_v intercessor_n also_o for_o bring_v unto_o they_o all_o the_o purchase_a grace_n and_o blessing_n chap._n 53._o 11._o he_o bear_v the_o sin_n of_o many_o and_o make_v intercession_n for_o the_o transgressor_n the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o the_o elect_a he_o intercee_v not_o for_o joh._n 17._o 9_o 10._o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o god_n and_o christ_n do_v not_o bargain_n for_o the_o redemption_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n no_o not_o for_o the_o redemption_n conversion_n and_o salvation_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n to_o who_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o be_v preach_v for_o many_o be_v to_o be_v call_v who_o be_v not_o choose_v to_o who_o the_o gift_n of_o save_a faith_n be_v not_o to_o be_v give_v nor_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n be_v never_o to_o be_v reveal_v and_o this_o be_v the_o observation_n which_o the_o evangelist_n make_v upon_o the_o 1._o of_o isa._n 53._o joh._n 12._o 37._o etc._n etc._n but_o though_o he_o have_v do_v so_o many_o miracle_n before_o they_o yet_o they_o believe_v not_o on_o he_o that_o the_o say_n of_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n may_v be_v fulfil_v which_o he_o speak_v lord_n who_o have_v believe_v our_o report_n and_o to_o who_o be_v the_o arm_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v therefore_o they_o can_v not_o believe_v because_o isaiah_n say_v again_o isa._n 6._o 9_o 10._o he_o have_v blind_v their_o eye_n and_o harden_v their_o heart_n etc._n etc._n second_o it_o follow_v hence_o that_o election_n and_o redemption_n be_v not_o for_o the_o foresee_a faith_n or_o work_v of_o the_o elect_v redeem_v but_o of_o the_o mere_a grace_n and_o goodwill_n of_o god_n and_o all_o do_v for_o they_o and_o in_o they_o contrair_a to_o their_o deserve_n for_o it_o be_v say_v isa._n 53._o 6._o all_o we_o like_o sheep_n have_v go_v astray_o and_o the_o lord_n have_v lay_v on_o he_o the_o iniquity_n of_o we_o all_o three_o it_o follow_v hence_o that_o it_o be_v agree_v upon_o that_o save_a grace_n and_o conversion_n and_o sanctification_n shall_v infallible_o and_o invincible_o come_v to_o pass_v and_o be_v give_v to_o the_o redeem_v isa._n 52._o 13._o behold_v my_o servant_n shall_v deal_v prudent_o and_o prosperous_o and_o vers_n 15._o be_v shall_v sprinkle_v many_o nation_n and_o isa._n 53._o 11._o by_o his_o knowledge_n shall_v my_o righteous_a servant_n justify_v many_o four_o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o agreement_n be_v pass_v for_o their_o final_a perseverance_n
and_o full_a salvation_n for_o isa._n 53._o 5._o with_o his_o stripe_n we_o be_v heal_v now_o our_o heal_n be_v our_o full_a salvation_n from_o our_o sin_n and_o misery_n or_o our_o deadly_a sickness_n and_o isa._n 53._o 10._o the_o pleasure_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v prosper_v in_o his_o hand_n the_o pleasure_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v partly_o our_o sanctification_n 1_o thes._n 4._o 3._o partly_o our_o salvation_n and_o glorification_n joh._n 6._o 39_o this_o be_v the_o father_n will_n which_o have_v send_v i_o that_o of_o all_o which_o he_o have_v give_v i_o i_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o but_o shall_v raise_v it_o up_o again_o at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n powerful_o do_v his_o intercession_n serve_v from_o which_o the_o apostle_n conclude_v that_o believer_n shall_v be_v perfect_o save_v heb._n 7._o 25._o wherefore_o he_o be_v able_a also_o to_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a they_o that_o come_v to_o god_n by_o he_o see_v he_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o they_o the_o second_o proof_n be_v from_o isa._n 59_o 20._o 21._o the_o second_o place_n be_v from_o isa._n 59_o 20._o 21._o where_n first_o we_o have_v the_o party_n agree_v point_v at_o the_o lord_n jehovah_n say_v and_o of_o the_o redeemer_n he_o say_v that_o he_o shall_v come_v to_o zion_n as_o redeemer_n next_o we_o have_v the_o kind_n of_o agreement_n between_o the_o party_n god_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o redeemer_n with_o the_o redeem_v for_o who_o and_o in_o who_o name_n he_o make_v the_o agreement_n this_o be_v my_o covenant_n with_o they_o but_o first_o with_o christ_n as_o the_o word_n follow_v do_v show_v three_o we_o have_v the_o party_n redeem_v zion_n and_o jacob_n that_o turn_n from_o transgression_n which_o be_v the_o mark_n of_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o elect_a for_o who_o this_o grace_n be_v appoint_v as_o rom._n 11._o 7._o israel_n have_v not_o obtain_v that_o which_o he_o seek_v for_o but_o the_o election_n have_v obtain_v it_o and_o the_o rest_n be_v blind_v and_o rom._n 11._o 26._o all_o this_o israel_n shall_v be_v save_v as_o it_o be_v write_v four_o we_o have_v the_o sort_n of_o their_o delivery_n which_o shall_v be_v not_o only_o by_o price_n pay_v but_o also_o by_o powerful_a and_o effectual_a work_n as_o the_o original_n import_v rom._n 11_o 26_o and_o isa._n 59_o 20._o five_o the_o benefit_n bestow_v upon_o the_o elect_a be_v comprehend_v under_o the_o designation_n of_o the_o redeem_v they_o be_v to_o be_v turn_v from_o their_o iniquity_n by_o effectual_a conversion_n by_o grant_v they_o faith_n in_o christ_n repentance_n and_o reconciliation_n six_o it_o be_v show_v how_o these_o grace_n shall_v be_v bring_v to_o pass_v to_o wit_n by_o application_n thereof_o by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n of_o christ_n from_o which_o sanctification_n salvation_n and_o the_o perpetuation_n of_o all_o grace_n unto_o salvation_n do_v flow_v and_o follow_v on_o they_o my_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o say_v the_o lord_n to_o the_o redeemer_n incarnate_a and_o my_o word_n which_o i_o have_v put_v in_o thy_o mouth_n shall_v not_o depart_v out_o of_o thy_o mouth_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o thy_o seed_n etc._n etc._n these_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n make_v express_o first_o against_o universal_a redemption_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n because_o christ_n as_o be_v show_v before_o make_v his_o bargain_n for_o the_o elect_a and_o leave_v the_o rest_n in_o blindness_n and_o be_v a_o redeemer_n of_o none_o but_o of_o these_o to_o who_o he_o be_v a_o deliverer_n actual_o from_o who_o he_o turn_v away_o iniquity_n and_o ungodliness_n which_o benefit_n befall_v none_o but_o the_o elect_a and_o the_o redeem_v next_o they_o make_v against_o election_n for_o faith_n and_o foresee_v work_n because_o when_o christ_n come_v to_o call-in_a the_o jew_n he_o find_v nothing_o commendable_a in_o they_o but_o impiety_n and_o transgression_n and_o defection_n and_o whatsoever_o may_v provoke_v he_o to_o reject_v they_o they_o be_v turn_v from_o transgression_n three_o they_o make_v against_o a_o mere_a possible_a and_o contingent_a conversion_n for_o invincible_a grace_n be_v promise_v here_o for_o the_o word_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n shall_v take_v up_o a_o dwell_n in_o they_o and_o not_o depart_v from_o they_o four_o they_o make_v against_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o aposlasie_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o uncertainty_n of_o their_o perseverance_n because_o here_o it_o be_v promise_v to_o christ_n that_o from_o the_o heart_n and_o mouth_n of_o his_o seed_n the_o word_n and_o spirit_n of_o christ_n shall_v never_o depart_v the_o three_o proof_n be_v from_o joh._n 6._o 37._o etc._n etc._n the_o three_o place_n be_v joh._n 6._o from_o v_o 37._o to_o 45._o where_o first_o be_v set_v down_o the_o party_n contracter_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n for_o the_o elect_n be_v give_v over_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n by_o the_o father_n all_o that_o the_o father_n give_v to_o i_o come_v to_o i_o v_o 37._o second_o upon_o the_o father_n give_v of_o the_o elect_a unto_o christ_n follow_v in_o due_a time_n the_o conversion_n and_o save_a faith_n of_o the_o redeem_v all_o that_o the_o father_n give_v i_o come_v to_o i_o say_v christ._n three_o the_o redeem_a be_v commit_v unto_o christ_n as_o to_o their_o lead_n on_o preservation_n and_o perfect_a of_o their_o salvation_n this_o be_v the_o father_n will_n which_o have_v send_v i_o that_o of_o all_o which_o he_o have_v give_v i_o i_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o but_o shall_v raise_v it_o up_o again_o at_o the_o last_o day_n four_o it_o be_v agree_v by_o what_o mean_v the_o faith_n of_o the_o redeem_v shall_v be_v form_v in_o they_o which_o be_v the_o revealed_z sight_n of_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n the_o powerful_a draw_v of_o the_o illuminat_fw-la soul_n unto_o christ_n which_o powerful_a draught_n overcome_v all_o opposition_n and_o resistance_n because_o it_o be_v omnipotent_a and_o invincible_a for_o no_o man_n come_v to_o christ_n but_o he_o who_o the_o father_n draw_v v_o 44._o and_o that_o by_o make_v they_o saving_o and_o in_o a_o lively_a manner_n see_v the_o son_n and_o believe_v on_o he_o v_o 40._o hence_o follow_v 1._o that_o it_o be_v false_a doctrine_n to_o teach_v that_o there_o be_v a_o universal_a redemption_n unto_o life_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n because_o not_o all_o but_o only_o some_o be_v give_v and_o make_v to_o come_v to_o christ_n the_o rest_n that_o be_v not_o give_v come_v not_o second_o it_o follow_v that_o election_n be_v of_o mere_a free_a grace_n because_o man_n come_v not_o unto_o christ_n that_o they_o may_v be_v give_v but_o they_o be_v give_v unto_o christ_n that_o they_o may_v be_v bring_v and_o come_v unto_o he_o three_o by_o this_o agreement_n the_o powerful_a conversion_n of_o the_o redeem_v and_o their_o powerful_a preservation_n unto_o eternal_a life_n be_v as_o certain_a as_o the_o power_n and_o constancy_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o father_n be_v firm_a and_o certain_a this_o be_v the_o will_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o that_o of_o what_o he_o have_v give_v i_o i_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o but_o raise_v it_o up_o at_o the_o last_o day_n ver_fw-la 39_o the_o four_o proof_n be_v joh._n 10._o 14._o the_o four_o place_n be_v joh._n 10._o from_o v_o 14._o to_o v_o 30._o where_o we_o see_v that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o true_a pastor_n of_o israel_n before_o he_o be_v incarnate_a ps._n 23._o continue_v in_o that_o same_o office_n now_o be_v incarnate_a and_o give_v his_o people_n to_o understand_v this_o when_o he_o say_v i_o be_o the_o good_a shepherd_n second_o the_o care_n and_o custody_n of_o all_o the_o redeem_v both_o convert_v and_o unconvert_v be_v put_v upon_o christ_n v_o 14._o 16._o i_o know_v my_o sheep_n and_o be_o know_v of_o i_o and_o other_o sheep_n i_o have_v which_o be_v not_o of_o this_o fold_n they_o also_o i_o must_v bring_v in_o and_o they_o shall_v hear_v my_o voice_n three_o the_o price_n of_o their_o redemption_n be_v clear_o agree_v upon_o v_o 15._o as_o the_o father_n know_v i_o even_o so_o know_v i_o the_o father_n and_o i_o lay_v down_o my_o life_n for_o my_o sheep_n four_o the_o father_n accept_v the_o price_n and_o be_v satisfy_v and_o well_o please_v with_o it_o v_o 17._o 18._o therefore_o do_v my_o father_n love_v i_o because_o i_o lay_v down_o my_o life_n that_o i_o may_v take_v it_o up_o again_o etc._n etc._n five_o all_o the_o redeem_v be_v infallible_o convert_v but_o they_o that_o be_v not_o redeem_v be_v not_o convert_v v_o 27_o my_o sheep_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o i_o know_v they_o and_o they_o follow_v i_o
and_o v_o 26._o but_o you_o believe_v not_o because_o you_o be_v not_o of_o my_o sheep_n six_o albeit_o the_o redeem_a and_o convert_v shall_v not_o want_v enemy_n who_o shall_v go_v about_o to_o mar_v their_o perseverance_n and_o salvation_n yet_o shall_v they_o not_o prevail_v v_o 28._o i_o give_v they_o eternal_a life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o perish_v neither_o shall_v any_o man_n pluck_v they_o out_o of_o my_o hand_n hence_o follow_v first_o that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o universal_a redemption_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n unto_o life_n be_v false_a because_o only_o the_o redemption_n of_o the_o elect_a sheep_n be_v agree_v upon_o for_o who_o he_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n v_o 15._o and_o the_o rest_n be_v not_o redeem_v nor_o ordain_v to_o life_n for_o these_o he_o speak_v to_o v_o 26._o they_o be_v not_o of_o his_o sheep_n but_o remain_v unbeliever_n second_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o election_n of_o man_n be_v not_o for_o faith_n or_o work_v fore-seen_a but_o on_o the_o contrary_a faith_n be_v ordain_v to_o be_v give_v unto_o the_o redeem_v because_o they_o be_v elect_v and_o give_v over_o unto_o christ_n to_o convert_v and_o save_v they_o v_a 16._o other_o sheep_n i_o have_v and_o they_o i_o must_v bring_v in_o and_o they_o shall_v hear_v my_o voice_n three_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o conversion_n of_o the_o elect_n do_v not_o depend_v on_o their_o will_n but_o upon_o christ_n undertake_v to_o make_v they_o believe_v and_o upon_o his_o omnipotency_n vers_fw-la 16._o other_o sheep_n i_o have_v and_o they_o i_o must_v bring_v in_o and_o they_o shall_v hear_v my_o voice_n four_o it_o follow_v that_o albeit_o the_o redeem_a believer_n be_v in_o themselves_o wirlesse_a as_o sheep_n and_o weak_a and_o ready_a to_o be_v destroy_v and_o compass_v about_o with_o many_o enemy_n as_o sheep_n among_o wolf_n yet_o because_o of_o the_o omnipotency_n of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o son_n that_o have_v take_v the_o care_n and_o custody_n of_o they_o they_o shall_v persevere_v and_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v perish_v or_o not_o persevere_v joh._n 10._o 28._o 29._o i_o give_v they_o eternal_a life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o perish_v and_o none_o can_v take_v they_o out_o of_o my_o father_n band_n the_o five_o proof_n the_o five_o place_n be_v psa_n 40._o explicat_fw-la by_o the_o apostle_n heb._n 10._o 5._o 6._o 7._o where_n first_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n expound_v the_o covenant_n whereof_o we_o be_v speaking_z and_o bring_v in_o the_o party_n god_n and_o christ_n as_o speak_v one_o to_o another_o and_o as_o it_o be_v in_o our_o sight_n and_o audience_n repeat_v the_o term_n thereof_o the_o price_n of_o redemption_n be_v first_o speak_v of_o for_o expiation_n of_o sin_n not_o to_o be_v forgive_v without_o blood_n without_o better_a blood_n than_o the_o blood_n of_o beast_n heb._n 10._o 4._o second_o all_o satisfaction_n by_o man_n and_o whatsoever_o price_n can_v be_v pay_v by_o mere_a man_n be_v reject_v sacrifice_n and_o oblation_n thou_o will_v not_o vers_n 5._o three_o nothing_o except_o only_a the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o son_n the_o mediator_n his_o obedience_n and_o suffering_n to_o the_o death_n can_v satisfy_v divine_a justice_n but_o a_o body_n have_v thou_o prepare_v i_o vers_fw-la 5._o four_o the_o mediator_n christ_n offer_v himself_o pledge_v and_o surety_n of_o his_o own_o accord_n and_o take_v the_o condition_n then_o say_v i_o lo_o i_o come_v to_o wit_n as_o surety_n to_o pay_v the_o ransom_n and_o to_o do_v thy_o will_n heb._n 10._o 7._o five_o christ_n the_o surety_n not_o only_o condescend_v upon_o the_o price_n but_o also_o upon_o the_o person_n to_o be_v redeem_v and_o their_o sanctification_n by_o which_o will_v we_o be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o offering_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n once_o for_o all_o and_o this_o price_n be_v now_o actual_o pay_v heb._n 10._o 10._o six_o the_o price_n be_v pay_v the_o mediator_n go_v about_o the_o application_n of_o the_o purchase_a benefit_n by_o his_o intercession_n heb._n 10._o 12._o 13._o this_o man_n after_o he_o have_v offer_v one_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n for_o ever_o sit_v down_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n from_o henceforth_o expect_v till_o his_o enemy_n be_v make_v his_o footstool_n hence_o follow_v first_o that_o there_o be_v no_o universal_a redemption_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n unto_o life_n because_o by_o one_o offering_n he_o have_v perfect_v for_o ever_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v heb._n 10._o 14._o therefore_o they_o be_v never_o redeem_v who_o be_v never_o sanctify_v and_o only_o they_o be_v perfect_v who_o be_v redeem_v second_o it_o follow_v that_o not_o for_o any_o thing_n in_o man_n neither_o fore-seen_a faith_n or_o work_v be_v man_n elect_v and_o redeem_v because_o all_o be_v reject_v that_o mere_a man_n can_v do_v that_o the_o mere_a grace_n of_o god_n may_v appear_v in_o christ_n undertake_v for_o man_n of_o his_o own_o accord_n sacrifice_n and_o oblation_n thou_o will_v not_o then_o say_v i_o behold_v i_o come_v heb._n 10._o 5._o 7._o three_o by_o christ_n death_n purchase_n be_v make_v of_o the_o infallible_a conversion_n and_o sanctification_n of_o the_o redeem_v and_o of_o their_o perseverance_n unto_o perfection_n by_o one_o offer_v of_o christ_n he_o have_v perfect_v for_o ever_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v heb._n 10._o 14._o and_o therefore_o the_o redeem_v can_v but_o be_v convert_v can_v but_o be_v sanctify_v can_v but_o persevere_v unto_o perfection_n and_o that_o for_o ever_o heb._n 10_o 12_o 13_o 14._o the_o use_n of_o this_o article_n be_v first_o that_o all_o these_o who_o hear_v the_o gospel_n and_o have_v in_o any_o sort_n embrace_v it_o shall_v in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o natural_a corruption_n and_o perverse_a wickedness_n humble_v themselves_o before_o god_n and_o pray_v for_o and_o expect_v grace_n according_a to_o the_o promise_v offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n second_o that_o they_o who_o be_v already_o sensible_a of_o their_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n may_v not_o run_v away_o or_o be_v discourage_v but_o so_o much_o the_o rather_o fl●e_v to_o christ_n in_o who_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n be_v promise_v to_o such_o three_o that_o they_o who_o have_v fix_v their_o eye_n on_o the_o son_n resolve_v to_o cleave_v unto_o he_o shall_v acknowledge_v the_o powerful_a draught_n of_o god_n almighty_a hand_n who_o have_v cause_v they_o to_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o shall_v upon_o the_o begin_v work_n of_o grace_n conceive_v lively_a hope_n of_o salvation_n and_o study_v to_o purify_v their_o soul_n in_o this_o hope_n four_o that_o they_o who_o find_v the_o instability_n and_o inconstancy_n of_o their_o own_o freewill_n and_o have_v experience_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n deceive_v they_o frequent_o after_o they_o have_v engage_v themselves_o by_o promise_n and_o vow_n to_o take_v bett●r_a heed_n to_o their_o way_n shall_v not_o cast_v away_o their_o confidence_n in_o christ_n because_o of_o their_o own_o infirmity_n but_o that_o they_o shall_v lean_v less_o to_o their_o own_o strength_n and_o lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n power_n fidelity_n and_o constancy_n so_o much_o the_o more_o for_o to_o help_v the_o weak_a at_o such_o a_o dead_a lift_n the_o apostle_n look_v to_o christ_n engagement_n in_o the_o covenant_n for_o those_o who_o in_o any_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n adhere_v unto_o he_o have_v say_v 1_o cor._n 1._o 8._o 9_o christ_n shall_v confirm_v you_o unto_o the_o end_n that_o you_o may_v be_v blameless_a in_o the_o day_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n god_n be_v faithful_a by_o who_o you_o be_v call_v unto_o the_o fellowship_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n five_o let_v we_o not_o take_v the_o guide_n of_o our_o own_o freewill_n but_o let_v so_o many_o as_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n give_v he_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o incline_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o his_o testimony_n and_o to_o his_o obedience_n in_o any_o measure_n and_o know_v that_o every_o spiritual_a motion_n flow_v from_o his_o purchase_n and_o application_n of_o what_o be_v bestow_v on_o we_o and_o when_o we_o find_v his_o hand_n withdraw_v and_o our_o heart_n incline_v to_o what_o be_v not_o right_a let_v we_o run_v to_o he_o to_o right_v it_o in_o hope_n to_o be_v help_v by_o his_o grace_n to_o fight_v against_o whatsoever_o adversary_n of_o our_o salvation_n the_o four_o article_n as_o to_o the_o four_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n it_o concern_v the_o mean_n and_o manner_n how_o the_o elect_n shall_v be_v call_v forth_o from_o the_o perish_a world_n and_o be_v effectual_o call_v and_o turn_v unto_o god_n so_o as_o the_o world_n among_o who_o the_o elect_a do_v live_v shall_v not_o have_v cause_n of_o stumble_v just_o for_o he_o have_v take_v
be_v suffer_v for_o sin_n by_o the_o sinner_n be_v the_o curse-everlasting_a of_o soul_n and_o body_n see_v a_o mere_a creature_n can_v for_o ever_o satisfy_v for_o his_o rebellion_n how_o long_o soever_o we_o presuppose_v his_o duration_n under_o suffering_n and_o for_o obedience_n by_o way_n of_o do_v perfect_o what_o the_o law_n do_v crave_v it_o be_v utter_o impossible_a because_o we_o be_v carnal_a sell_v under_o sin_n and_o can_v satisfy_v the_o law_n and_o because_o we_o can_v satisfy_v the_o law_n the_o law_n become_v weak_a and_o unable_a to_o justify_v and_o save_v we_o rom._n 8._o 3._o how_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n may_v be_v call_v the_o covenant_n of_o nature_n albeit_o the_o law_n write_v by_o nature_n in_o man_n heart_n differ_v from_o the_o covenant_n for_o performance_n of_o the_o law_n as_o have_v be_v show_v before_o yet_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n make_v with_o adam_n before_o he_o fall_v tie_v he_o to_o keep_v that_o law_n may_v be_v call_v the_o covenant_n of_o nature_n first_o because_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v ground_v upon_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o do_v exact_a nothing_o of_o man_n save_o that_o which_o god_n may_v require_v of_o he_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n second_o because_o when_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v make_v with_o adam_n it_o be_v make_v with_o all_o his_o natural_a posterity_n which_o be_v to_o spring_v of_o he_o by_o natural_a generation_n and_o so_o the_o obligation_n thereof_o do_v pass_v upon_o all_o his_o natural_a posterity_n by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n which_o make_v the_o child_n beget_v to_o bear_v the_o image_n of_o the_o begetter_n three_o that_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n may_v just_o be_v call_v the_o covenant_n of_o nature_n appear_v by_o the_o force_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v waken_v from_o its_o sleepy_a security_n for_o it_o challenge_v for_o sin_n according_a to_o that_o covenant_n and_o pronounce_v the_o sentence_n of_o god_n wrath_n against_o the_o sinner_n for_o the_o conscience_n do_v acknowledge_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o which_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n rom._n 1._o 32._o four_o because_o the_o conscience_n natural_o incline_v a_o man_n to_o seek_v justification_n by_o his_o own_o work_n if_o it_o can_v any_o way_n find_v pretence_n for_o it_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi who_o in_o his_o speech_n to_o god_n do_v judge_v himself_o a_o holy_a man_n because_o he_o be_v not_o among_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n and_o have_v many_o good_a work_n above_o other_o to_o reckon_v forth_o and_o lay_v before_o god_n luk._n 18._o 11._o five_o the_o inclination_n of_o man_n heart_n to_o expect_v a_o reward_n of_o every_o good_a work_n he_o do_v whether_o it_o be_v in_o some_o part_n real_a or_o only_o apparent_o such_o testify_v so_o much_o judg._n 17._o 13._o micah_n so_o reason_v now_o know_v i_o the_o lord_n will_v do_v i_o good_a see_v i_o have_v a_o levit_fw-la to_o my_o priest_n and_o how_o miserable_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v delude_v in_o this_o case_n when_o man_n do_v dote_v upon_o their_o own_o well-deserving_a appear_v in_o leah_n for_o gen._n 30._o 18._o leah_n say_v god_n have_v give_v i_o my_o hire_n because_o i_o have_v give_v my_o maiden_n to_o my_o husband_n six_o this_o point_n be_v also_o make_v manifest_a by_o the_o natural_a ignorance_n of_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n and_o affectation_n to_o be_v justify_v by_o work_n which_o the_o apostle_n find_v fault-with_a in_o the_o israelit_v rom._n 9_o 31._o they_o seek_v righteousness_n not_o by_o faith_n but_o as_o it_o be_v by_o work_n and_o rom._n 10._o 3._o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n to_o wit_n righteousness_n by_o work_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n they_o do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n seven_o the_o same_o course_n follow_v by_o papist_n and_o other_o erroneous_a teacher_n testify_v the_o natural_a inclination_n of_o man_n to_o seek_v righteousness_n by_o work_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o not_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n that_o righteousness_n may_v come_v by_o grace_n only_o and_o so_o be_v some_o man_n heart_n glue_v to_o this_o error_n that_o they_o do_v transform_v justification_n by_o faith_n in_o justification_n by_o one_o work_n in_o stead_n of_o all_o as_o if_o the_o work_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o man_n righteousness_n and_o not_o christ_n him-himself_a lay_v hold_n on_o by_o faith_n not_o consider_v that_o to_o the_o man_n that_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o any_o work_n of_o his_o own_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n by_o faith_n christ_n be_v make_v of_o god_n unto_o that_o man_n wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n 1_o cor._n 1._o 30._o last_o of_o all_o this_o natural_a inclination_n even_o of_o the_o regenerate_a to_o seek_v righteousness_n by_o work_n do_v prove_v the_o covenant_n of_o work_n to_o be_v natural_o ingraft_v in_o all_o man_n heart_n as_o appear_v in_o the_o galatian_n who_o be_v instruct_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n do_v easy_o upon_o a_o tentation_n offer_v look_v back_o with_o like_v to_o the_o way_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n for_o which_o the_o apostle_n reprove_v they_o gal._n 4._o 21._o tell_v i_o say_v he_o you_o that_o desire_n to_o be_v under_o the_o law_n or_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o ver_fw-la 9_o but_o now_o after_o you_o have_v know_v god_n or_o rather_o be_v know_v of_o god_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o to_o weak_a and_o beggarly_a element_n whereunto_o you_o desire_v again_o to_o be_v in_o bondage_n obj._n but_o the_o galatian_n as_o it_o seem_v do_v not_o reject_v justification_n by_o faith_n but_o do_v join_v with_o it_o justification_n by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n think_v that_o the_o safe_a way_n be_v to_o join_v both_o together_o ans._n the_o inconsistency_n of_o these_o two_o way_n of_o justification_n the_o apostle_n show_v rom._n 11._o 6._o for_o justification_n by_o grace_n be_v no_o more_o by_o work_n otherwise_o grace_n be_v no_o more_o of_o grace_n and_o what_o justification_n be_v by_o work_n be_v no_o more_o of_o grace_n otherwise_o work_n be_v no_o more_o work_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n make_v the_o join_n of_o these_o two_o way_n of_o justification_n to_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o plain_a seek_v of_o justification_n by_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n which_o cut_v a_o man_n off_o from_o any_o benefit_n by_o christ_n gal._n 5._o 2._o and_o whosoever_o seek_v to_o be_v justify_v by_o the_o law●_n or_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v fall_v from_o grace_n ver_fw-la 4._o for_o further_o clear_v this_o matter_n we_o may_v distinguish_v two_o sort_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n the_o one_o be_v true_a genuine_a and_o of_o god_n institution_n which_o god_n make_v with_o all_o man_n in_o adam_n for_o perfect_a obedience_n unto_o god_n law_n out_o of_o man_n own_o natural_a ability_n there_o be_v another_o counterfeit_n bastard_n covenant_n of_o work_n of_o man_n own_o devise_v which_o a_o sinner_n lie_v in_o his_o sin_n unable_a to_o do_v what_o the_o law_n command_v or_o to_o suffer_v what_o the_o law_n be_v break_v bind_v upon_o he_o of_o his_o own_o head_n devile_v upon_o other_o condition_n than_o god_n have_v set_v and_o will_v have_v god_n to_o take_v his_o devise_a covenant_n in_o stead_n of_o perfect_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n that_o so_o he_o may_v be_v justify_v such_o be_v the_o covenant_n which_o the_o carnal_a israelit_v make_v with_o god_n in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o which_o their_o posterity_n do_v follow_v turn_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n whereunto_o god_n be_v call_v they_o into_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n of_o their_o own_o frame_n for_o the_o grace_n which_o be_v offer_v to_o they_o in_o christ_n under_o the_o vail_n of_o levitical_a type_n figure_n and_o ceremony_n they_o turn_v into_o a_o external_a service_n of_o performance_n only_o of_o bare_a and_o dead_a ceremony_n and_o into_o a_o ministry_n of_o the_o letter_n and_o death_n for_o they_o do_v not_o take_v up_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n for_o righteousness_n to_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o but_o do_v think_v that_o both_o the_o moral_n and_o ceremonial_a law_n be_v give_v unto_o they_o of_o god_n to_o the_o intent_n that_o they_o shall_v do_v the_o external_a work_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v and_o when_o they_o transgress_v the_o moral_a law_n they_o shall_v fly_v to_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n and_o make_v amends_o for_o their_o fault_n by_o
of_o the_o israelit_v who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o of_o their_o inability_n to_o perform_v what_o they_o promise_v he_o say_v ver_fw-la 28_o 29._o they_o have_v well_o say_v all_o that_o they_o have_v speak_v therefore_o unto_o the_o tie_n a_o man_n in_o this_o bond_n of_o the_o covenant_n this_o moral_a honesty_n be_v sufficient_a albeit_o to_o salvation_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a but_o in_o order_n thereto_o a_o mean_a of_o god_n appointment_n now_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o we_o call_v moral_a integrity_n or_o honesty_n which_o differ_v from_o the_o true_a christian_n spiritual_a honesty_n or_o sincerity_n it_o be_v plain_a from_o these_o place_n of_o scripture_n which_o speak_v of_o this_o integrity_n of_o heart_n in_o such_o person_n as_o be_v not_o renew_v because_o they_o intend_v no_o other_o thing_n than_o they_o pretend_v thus_o abimelech_n excuse_v himself_o to_o god_n when_o he_o take_v away_o sarah_n abraham_n wife_n from_o he_o think_v sarah_n have_v be_v his_o sister_n and_o not_o his_o wife_n gen_n 20._o 6._o in_o the_o integrity_n of_o my_o heart_n and_o innocency_n of_o my_o ●●ads_n have_v i_o do_v this_o and_o this_o the_o lord_n do_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v true_a ver_fw-la 17._o so_o also_o the_o captain_n that_o come_v with_o their_o company_n to_o david_n in_o ziklag_n be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o perfect_a heart_n because_o they_o be_v moral_o honest_a and_o resolve_v as_o they_o profess_v upright_o to_o make_v david_n king_n and_o to_o help_v he_o in_o the_o war_n and_o not_o betray_v he_o 1_o chron._n 12._o 33._o 38._o of_o the_o sundry_a way_n of_o man_n frame_v of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o we_o tell_v there_o be_v a_o covenant_n of_o work_n one_o true_o so_o call_v of_o god_n institution_n and_o another_o false_a sort_n of_o covenant_n of_o work_n of_o man_n frame_v so_o it_o be_v also_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n there_o be_v one_o true_o so_o call_v and_o another_o sort_n false_a and_o counterfeit_a of_o man_n frame_v that_o which_o be_v of_o god_n frame_v be_v the_o covenant_n that_o god_n make_v with_o the_o church_n for_o give_v righteousness_n and_o life_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n that_o which_o we_o call_v a_o counterfeit_a covenant_n be_v the_o covenant_n which_o man_n frame_v unto_o themselves_o upon_o any_o other_o condition_n than_o faith_n such_o be_v the_o counterfeit_a covenant_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n who_o corrupt_v the_o gospel-covenant_n among_o the_o galatian_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n paul_n complain_v gal._n 1._o 6_o 7._o challenge_v they_o that_o they_o have_v forsake_v god_n who_o call_v they_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v turn_v over_o to_o another_o gospel_n that_o be_v to_o another_o covenant_n of_o grace_n than_o the_o true_a one_o which_o be_v only_o one_o and_o not_o various_a but_o by_o the_o troubler_n of_o the_o church_n be_v change_v into_o another_o frame_n for_o the_o true_a covenant_n be_v pervert_v and_o corrupt_v by_o these_o who_o go_v about_o to_o join_v together_o justification_n by_o work_n and_o justification_n by_o grace_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n which_o two_o sort_n of_o covenant_n be_v inconsistent_a and_o do_v mutual_o overthrow_v one_o another_o so_o also_o do_v the_o pharisee_fw-mi luke_n 18._o 11_o 12._o corrupt_a and_o pervert_v both_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n he_o corrupt_v and_o pervert_v the_o covenant_n of_o work_n because_o he_o put_v up_o to_o god_n some_o external_a good_a work_n for_o the_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n and_o he_o pervert_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n because_o albeit_o he_o do_v acknowledge_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o give_v he_o thanks_o for_o give_v he_o ability_n and_o power_n to_o do_v good_a work_n and_o for_o infuse_v habit_n of_o piety_n and_o justice_n in_o he_o yet_o he_o exalt_v himself_o and_o take_v the_o thanks_o and_o praise_n to_o himself_o who_o have_v make_v good_a use_n of_o these_o virtuous_a habit_n god_n i_o thank_v thou_o say_v he_o that_o i_o be_o not_o like_o other_o man_n etc._n etc._n 2._o like_o unto_o this_o fault_n be_v the_o error_n of_o many_o of_o who_o some_o make_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n bring_v forth_o by_o the_o power_n of_o natural_a freewill_n to_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n contrary_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o make_v say_v infuse_v to_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n renounce_v its_o own_o righteousness_n and_o the_o merit_n of_o all_o work_n also_o and_o rest_v on_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o condition_n for_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o apostle_n stand_v firm_a and_o unmovable_a rom._n 11._o 16._o if_o it_o be_v by_o grace_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o work_n etc._n etc._n other_o some_o make_v this_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n that_o christ_n shall_v pay_v for_o mortal_a sin_n by_o his_o own_o temporal_a suffering_n and_o so_o take_v away_o everlasting_a punishment_n but_o will_v have_v the_o sinner_n himself_o to_o pay_v for_o venial_a sin_n by_o temporal_a suffering_n partly_o in_o this_o life_n and_o partly_o in_o purgatory_n other_o some_o dream_n of_o frame_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n thus_o if_o a_o man_n do_v all_o the_o good_a he_o be_v able_a and_o have_v a_o will_n to_o serve_v god_n better_o than_o before_o they_o conceive_v that_o god_n must_v take_v the_o will_n for_o the_o perfect_a dead_a and_o so_o for_o good_a payment_n which_o counterfeit_a condition_n and_o other_o such_o like_a invention_n of_o self-pleasing_a conceit_n be_v all_o of_o they_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o adulterate_n both_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n appoint_v of_o god_n by_o which_o invention_n man_n deceive_v themselves_o to_o their_o own_o perdition_n now_o that_o such_o pervert_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o of_o grace_n be_v rife_a &_o frequent_a among_o man_n experience_n may_v prove_v for_o before_o christ_n come_n this_o be_v the_o way_n of_o carnal_a israelit_n rom._n 10._o 3._o and_o rom._n 9_o 30._o for_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o will_v not_o subject_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o galatian_n it_o be_v say_v chap._n 5._o 4._o christ_n be_v become_v of_o none_o effect_v unto_o you_o whosoever_o of_o you_o be_v justify_v by_o the_o law_n you_o be_v fall_v from_o grace_n that_o be_v you_o who_o seek_v righteousness_n or_o justification_n by_o work_n have_v renounce_v so_o far_o as_o in_o you_o lie_v grace_n to_o be_v have_v by_o christ_n and_o experience_n daily_o show_v the_o same_o disposition_n in_o many_o profess_a christian_n quest._n be_v not_o then_o such_o corrupter_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n loose_v from_o their_o obligation_n wherein_o by_o their_o baptism_n they_o be_v tie_v to_o seek_v righteousness_n by_o faith_n only_o ans._n no_o for_o albeit_o by_o so_o do_v they_o prove_v themselves_o to_o be_v corrupter_n and_o falsifier_n of_o their_o covenant_n to_o their_o own_o perdition_n if_o they_o repent_v not_o yet_o they_o stand_v oblige_v still_o before_o god_n to_o their_o covenant_n seal_v in_o baptism_n for_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n with_o man_n can_v be_v dissolve_v by_o man_n treachery_n and_o without_o god_n consent_n not_o only_o because_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n with_o man_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o perpetual_a equity_n thereof_o have_v in_o it_o a_o perpetual_a obligation_n but_o also_o because_o the_o sovereign_a dominion_n of_o god_n have_v the_o force_n of_o a_o law_n to_o oblige_v they_o who_o god_n have_v take_v in_o among_o his_o people_n that_o be_v once_o his_o confederate_a subject_n they_o shall_v remain_v still_o his_o subject_n for_o as_o circumcision_n be_v a_o seal_n of_o covenant_v righteousness_n by_o faith_n so_o baptism_n be_v a_o seal_n of_o the_o same_o covenant_v righteousness_n by_o faith_n whether_o the_o covenanter_n remain_v constant_a unto_o their_o covenant_n or_o not_o as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o israelit_v who_o albeit_o they_o be_v pollute_v with_o idolatry_n in_o egypt_n and_o albeit_o they_o prove_v rebellious_a in_o the_o wilderness_n and_o in_o the_o land_n of_o promise_n be_v find_v often_o guilty_a of_o breach_n of_o covenant_n yet_o still_o in_o the_o scripture_n they_o be_v call_v god_n people_n and_o the_o lord_n interest_n and_o right_n in_o they_o stand_v fast_o and_o their_o right_n also_o unto_o the_o external_a privilege_n of_o the_o citizen_n of_o god_n kingdom_n remain_v fast_o also_o until_o the_o time_n that_o for_o their_o open_a and_o obstinate_a reject_v of_o christ_n the_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n be_v
and_o at_o length_n that_o they_o shall_v whole_o give_v themselves_o to_o religious_a exercise_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n mean_v time_n they_o conceive_v they_o may_v come_v in_o among_o the_o true_a convert_n and_o young_a beginner_n albeit_o they_o come_v not_o up_o the_o length_n which_o they_o intend_v but_o be_v unde_fw-la the_o power_n of_o some_o belove_a lust_n which_o they_o can_v rid_v themselves_o of_o but_o do_v hope_v they_o shall_v betimes_o overcome_v they_o such_o man_n do_v miserable_o mistake_v the_o mater_fw-la first_o in_o that_o they_o think_v their_o purpose_n of_o repentance_n and_o a_o new_a life_n breed_v in_o they_o by_o conviction_n of_o their_o duty_n to_o be_v the_o very_a grace_n of_o regeneration_n and_o begin_v sanctification_n second_o they_o conceive_v that_o the_o lust_n which_o do_v reign_v in_o themselves_o be_v common_a to_o they_o and_o all_o other_o regenerate_v person_n of_o who_o few_o or_o none_o think_v they_o want_v their_o own_o gross_a fault_n three_o they_o conceive_v they_o can_v repent_v more_o serious_o when_o they_o please_v and_o will_v repent_v after_o a_o while_n follow_v of_o their_o belove_a lust_n as_o if_o repentance_n be_v not_o a_o save_a grace_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o they_o do_v daily_o provoke_v by_o their_o vileness_n but_o a_o work_n in_o the_o power_n of_o every_o man_n freewill_n be_v once_o convince_v of_o his_o sin_n four_o they_o do_v not_o consider_v that_o by_o the_o delay_n of_o repent_v and_o turn_v from_o all_o sin_n unto_o god_n their_o heart_n be_v daily_o more_o and_o more_o in_o god_n judgement_n harden_v and_o god_n provoke_v to_o punish_v their_o voluntary_a impenitence_n with_o judicial_a hardness_n of_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v never_o repent_v such_o man_n our_o lord_n compare_v to_o the_o disobedient_a son_n who_o promise_v to_o his_o father_n he_o will_v go_v work_n in_o his_o vineyard_n and_o go_v not_o math._n 21._o 30._o such_o man_n be_v they_o who_o know_v the_o well_o of_o the_o lord_n but_o do_v it_o not_o and_o therefore_o worthy_a of_o double_a punishment_n math_n 12._o 47._o the_o ●●medy_n of_o this_o evil_a christ_n give_v luk._n 13._o 24_o 25_o 26._o strive_v to_o enter_v at_o the_o strait_a gate_n for_o many_o ●_o say_v unto_o you_o will_v seek_v to_o enter_v in_o and_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a m●n_z know_v not_o how_o soon_o god_n may_v shut_v the_o door_n therefore_o man_n have_v need_v while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n not_o to_o harden_v their_o heart_n psal_n 95._o 8._o 2._o other_o some_o be_v who_o be_v of_o a_o civil_a life_n profess_v and_o do_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o indeed_o do_v repent_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v certain_o expect_v salvation_n free_o of_o his_o grace_n if_o you_o pose_v any_o such_o man_n whether_o they_o do_v indeed_o believe_v in_o christ_n they_o shall_v present_o answer_v that_o they_o firm_o do_v believe_v in_o he_o and_o that_o they_o never_o doubt_v but_o he_o be_v their_o sweet_a saviour_n who_o die_v for_o they_o if_o you_o press_v they_o to_o speak_v in_o earnest_n from_o their_o heart_n they_o shall_v present_o be_v ill_o please_v with_o the_o question_n and_o ask_v what_o cause_n of_o suspect_v the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o repentance_n can_v be_v just_o allege_v or_o what_o cause_n have_v any_o man_n to_o suspect_v they_o or_o doubt_v of_o god_n favour_n towards_o they_o in_o christ_n in_o who_o shall_v we_o believe_v say_v they_o if_o not_o in_o christ_n be_v there_o any_o other_o saviour_n of_o sinner_n beside_o he_o if_o a_o man_n please_v to_o try_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o faith_n by_o their_o repentance_n they_o shall_v forthwith_o affirm_v that_o they_o repent_v day_n and_o night_n and_o have_v just_a cause_n so_o to_o do_v for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o and_o why_o then_o shall_v we_o not_o always_o repent_v if_o they_o be_v ask_v of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n they_o shall_v answer_v after_o the_o same_o manner_n such_o man_n be_v these_o of_o who_o christ_n speak_v that_o they_o will_v confident_o come_v to_o he_o and_o call_v he_o lord_n lord_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v no_o way_n careful_a to_o do_v the_o lord_n will_v but_o servant_n to_o their_o own_o lust_n 3._o such_o man_n do_v deceive_v themselves_o first_o by_o frame_v to_o themselves_o such_o carnal_a notion_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o save_a hope_n and_o other_o spiritual_a grace_n as_o in_o their_o fantasy_n they_o conceive_v they_o do_v practice_v which_o conception_n be_v not_o ground_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n second_o they_o esteem_v the_o assent_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o the_o truth_n commend_v these_o duty_n unto_o man_n as_o good_a as_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o and_o they_o do_v take_v the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n concern_v the_o equity_n of_o such_o duty_n for_o the_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n of_o their_o practice_n and_o obedience_n of_o these_o duty_n and_o while_o their_o conscience_n say_v why_o shall_v not_o i_o do_v so_o they_o take_v that_o for_o as_o good_a as_o if_o it_o have_v say_v i_o do_v so_o but_o save_v grace_n go_v deep_a than_o civil_a carriage_n and_o to_o commend_v the_o duty_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n be_v not_o enough_o except_o they_o be_v put_v in_o practice_n also_o in_o daily_a sorrow_n for_o sin_n and_o hatred_n of_o it_o and_o fly_v to_o christ_n daily_o to_o be_v washen_n and_o more_o and_o more_o sanctify_a 4._o some_o there_o be_v who_o when_o they_o have_v hear_v that_o a_o man_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n do_v imagine_v a_o faith_n which_o need_v not_o to_o bring_v forth_o any_o good_a work_n at_o all_o and_o so_o they_o take_v off_o the_o justify_v man_n from_o all_o necessity_n of_o follow_v good_a work_n as_o far_o as_o they_o take_v off_o good_a work_n from_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o justification_n and_o do_v open_a a_o door_n to_o themselves_o to_o live_v after_o their_o own_o will_n in_o the_o lust_n of_o their_o flesh_n conceive_v that_o they_o who_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v fir_v not_o only_o from_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n but_o also_o from_o the_o command_n of_o the_o law_n against_o who_o our_o lord_n do_v speak_v and_o do_v cut_v off_o such_o libertine_n and_o turner_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n math._n 5._o 17_o 18_o 19_o and_o the_o apostle_n to_o guard_v against_o this_o self-deceit_n heb._n 12._o 14._o command_v to_o follow_v holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n 5._o some_o there_o be_v who_o pretend_v to_o esteem_v well_o of_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o duty_n of_o follow_v the_o mean_n of_o make_v they_o partaker_n of_o the_o marriage-supper_n do_v yet_o think_v themselves_o excusable_a when_o they_o have_v much_o ado_n in_o their_o worldly_a calling_n albeit_o they_o prefer_v the_o care_n of_o their_o family_n and_o provision_n for_o their_o thing_n outward_a unto_o the_o main_a work_n of_o their_o entertain_a communion_n with_o god_n yea_o they_o conceive_v that_o god_n will_v allow_v they_o in_o so_o do_v as_o christ_n do_v insinuat_fw-la in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o guest_n invite_v to_o the_o feast_n answer_v the_o invitation_n with_o i_o pray_v have_v i_o excuse_v luke_n 14._o 18_o 19_o this_o be_v a_o rise_v evil_a in_o great_a personage_n rich_a person_n and_o such_o as_o be_v much_o implove_v in_o earthly_a affair_n such_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o first_o in_o lay_v down_o this_o ground_n with_o themselves_o that_o their_o earthly_a affair_n the_o necessity_n whereof_o do_v first_o and_o most_o sensible_o appear_v must_v in_o the_o first_o room_n be_v cared-for_a and_o that_o the_o one_o thing_n necessary_a may_v be_v follow_v after_o as_o their_o civil_a and_o earthly_a affair_n may_v permit_v second_o they_o reckon_v gain_v to_o be_v godliness_n 1_o tim._n 6._o 5._o for_o they_o can_v be_v persuade_v when_o gain_n may_v be_v have_v that_o god_n require_v of_o any_o man_n to_o slip_v the_o occasion_n or_o to_o put_v his_o worldly_a good_n in_o hazard_n by_o defend_v or_o follow_v matter_n of_o religion_n three_o they_o think_v themselves_o so_o wise_a as_o they_o can_v well_o enough_o serve_v two_o master_n god_n and_o covetousness_n albeit_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n they_o will_v be_v find_v to_o serve_v not_o god_n but_o their_o own_o lust_n this_o error_n our_o lord_n refute_v and_o give_v warning_n to_o beware_v of_o it_o matth._n 6._o 24._o and_o luke_n 21._o 34._o take_v heed_n
to_o prove_v a_o man_n to_o be_v regenerate_v but_o he_o must_v be_v prove_v also_o a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n a_o man_n reconcile_v to_o god_n a_o man_n justify_v and_o a_o adopt_a child_n 2._o it_o be_v necessary_a therefore_o for_o prove_v a_o man_n to_o be_v regenerate_v to_o know_v the_o right_a description_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n which_o be_v give_v by_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n which_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n hold_v forth_o the_o true_o regenerate_v circumcise_v in_o heart_n 1._o he_o be_v not_o sinless_a but_o so_o sensible_a of_o his_o sinfulness_n as_o he_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o himself_o nor_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o himself_o 2._o he_o be_v not_o free_a of_o accusation_n or_o tentation_n and_o doubt_n but_o he_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n 3._o he_o be_v not_o a_o idle_a and_o unfruitful_a branch_n but_o a_o worshipper_n of_o god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n 1._o he_o be_v burden_v with_o sin_n 2._o he_o come_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n 3._o he_o put_v on_o christ_n yoke_n math._n 11._o 28_o 29._o if_o a_o man_n have_v these_o three_o property_n joint_o in_o he_o he_o be_v a_o regenerae_fw-la man_n and_o may_v defend_v his_o interest_n in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o right_o to_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n through_o jesus_n christ._n 3._o divine_a operation_n and_o save_a grace_n which_o accompany_v salvation_n such_o as_o be_v faith_n repentance_n unto_o life_n hope_v christian_a love_n to_o god_n and_o man_n for_o god_n cause_n effectual_a vocation_n justification_n reconciliation_n adoption_n go_v together_o in_o time_n by_o god_n gift_n but_o one_o of_o they_o go_v before_o another_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n for_o effectual_a calling_n go_v before_o faith_n and_o faith_n go_v before_o hope_n and_o before_o charity_n or_o love_n again_o these_o grace_n which_o be_v give_v to_o the_o redeem_a child_n of_o god_n joint_o in_o respect_n of_o time_n do_v not_o show_v themselves_o in_o their_o evidence_n alike_o soon_o in_o time_n nor_o do_v they_o equal_o manifest_v themselves_o when_o they_o do_v appear_v in_o time_n and_o so_o the_o evidence_n of_o repentance_n may_v be_v discern_v in_o not_o a_o few_o convert_n before_o faith_n in_o christ_n do_v show_v itself_o in_o they_o clear_o so_o also_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n ofttimes_o may_v be_v discern_v in_o a_o regenerate_a man_n before_o he_o himself_o dare_v affirm_v any_o thing_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ._n 4._o albeit_o there_o be_v many_o regenerate_a person_n who_o for_o the_o present_a time_n can_v perceive_v in_o themselves_o any_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o their_o conversion_n yet_o it_o be_v certain_a also_o that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o to_o their_o own_o unspeakable_a comfort_n be_v assure_v of_o their_o regeneration_n and_o that_o they_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n and_o that_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n and_o earnest_n of_o eternal_a life_n as_o be_v point_v out_o in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o ephesian_n chap._n 1._o 14._o and_o this_o be_v certain_a also_o that_o all_o who_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n shall_v by_o all_o mean_n labour_v to_o make_v their_o call_n and_o election_n clear_a and_o certain_a to_o themselves_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 10._o and_o to_o this_o purpose_n we_o be_v command_v to_o examine_v ourselves_o and_o try_v whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o whether_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n be_v in_o we_o or_o not_o 2_o cor._n 13._o 5._o for_o otherwise_o except_o a_o convert_n know_v certain_o the_o blessedness_n of_o his_o own_o state_n and_o that_o he_o stand_v in_o grace_n and_o favour_n with_o god_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o he_o to_o give_v hearty_a thanks_o to_o god_n for_o the_o change_n of_o his_o state_n from_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o be_v make_v a_o reconcile_a subject_n and_o child_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o he_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n or_o set_v cheerful_o himself_o to_o serve_v god_n or_o comfortable_o call_v on_o god_n as_o a_o father_n to_o he_o in_o christ_n wherefore_o all_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o fear_n of_o deserve_a wrath_n be_v flee_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n shall_v deal_v by_o prayer_n earnest_o with_o god_n that_o he_o will_v gracious_o grant_v unto_o they_o his_o spirit_n by_o who_o operation_n in_o they_o they_o may_v know_v the_o save_a grace_n which_o he_o have_v free_o bestow_v upon_o they_o of_o which_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n the_o apostle_n do_v speak_v 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o 5._o the_o knowledge_n of_o a_o man_n own_o regeneration_n have_v many_o degree_n of_o clearness_n and_o assurance_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o variety_n of_o condition_n wherein_o a_o man_n true_o convert_v may_v be_v for_o many_o doubt_n may_v arise_v in_o the_o man_n regenerate_v which_o may_v darken_v his_o sight_n and_o hinder_v the_o assurance_n of_o save_a grace_n grant_v unto_o he_o whereof_o sundry_a cause_n may_v be_v find_v and_o in_o special_a these_o four_o among_o other_o 1._o in_o a_o man_n illuminat_fw-la and_o renew_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n there_o remain_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o ignorance_n much_o doubt_v mix_v with_o faith_n by_o reason_n of_o unskilfulnesse_n of_o the_o convert_n to_o examine_v and_o discern_v this_o bless_a change_n make_v in_o he_o where_o through_o that_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o many_o young_a convert_n which_o will_v be_v see_v in_o infant_n who_o have_v a_o soul_n indeed_o but_o do_v not_o know_v or_o perceive_v that_o they_o have_v a_o soul_n till_o they_o come_v to_o some_o year_n of_o discretion_n yea_o many_o sound_a christian_n be_v ofttimes_o at_o a_o stand_n about_o their_o regeneration_n and_o know_v not_o what_o to_o make_v of_o their_o faith_n or_o repentance_n especial_o when_o they_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n the_o strength_n of_o natural_a corruption_n in_o themselves_o and_o great_a indisposition_n for_o any_o spiritual_a exercise_n they_o be_v force_v with_o the_o apostle_n to_o cry_v miserable_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o rom._n 7._o 24._o mean_a time_n for_o weakness_n of_o their_o faith_n they_o be_v not_o able_a at_o the_o first_o to_o wrestle_v against_o discouragement_n and_o to_o come_v up_o unto_o the_o apostle_n thank_v god_n through_o christ._n 2._o by_o the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n ofttimes_o the_o persuasion_n of_o holy_a man_n be_v darken_v so_o as_o they_o can_v see_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o own_o regeneration_n clear_o for_o satan_n set_v himself_o to_o vex_v the_o saint_n who_o be_v deliver_v from_o his_o kingdom_n and_o bond_n who_o albeit_o he_o know_v that_o he_o can_v destroy_v they_o yet_o he_o will_v not_o cease_v to_o trouble_v they_o that_o at_o least_o he_o may_v make_v they_o some_o way_n unfit_a for_o god_n service_n and_o mar_v their_o cheerfulness_n in_o his_o service_n and_o because_o he_o fear_v harm_n from_o they_o unto_o his_o kingdom_n by_o their_o deal_n with_o the_o unconvert_v to_o repent_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o turn_v unto_o god_n therefore_o he_o find_v they_o work_v at_o home_n in_o their_o own_o bosom_n and_o put_v they_o to_o defend_v themselves_o and_o to_o forbear_v to_o invade_v his_o subject_n till_o they_o be_v settle_v themselves_o 3._o ofttime_n the_o lord_n be_v offend_v by_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o regenerate_a and_o special_o by_o their_o gross_a transgression_n for_o which_o his_o spirit_n be_v grieve_v do_v for_o a_o time_n cease_v from_o comfort_v they_o and_o do_v not_o bear_v witness_n with_o their_o spirit_n that_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n as_o he_o have_v former_o use_v to_o do_v 4._o ofttime_n the_o lord_n by_o suffer_a doubt_n to_o arise_v in_o their_o heart_n use_v to_o try_v and_o exercise_v the_o faith_n of_o his_o child_n and_o thereby_o to_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o the_o pursue_v of_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n and_o righteousness_n more_o vigorous_o and_o sincere_o that_o after_o victory_n obtain_v over_o these_o tentation_n they_o may_v be_v more_o confirm_v in_o their_o faith_n and_o more_o diligent_a in_o his_o obedience_n 6._o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o while_o the_o true_a convert_n do_v most_o doubt_n of_o his_o own_o regeneration_n that_o the_o work_n of_o god_n special_a grace_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o he_o and_o clear_o see_v by_o other_o more_o experience_v in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o discretion_n the_o reason_n whereof_o be_v because_o howsoever_o the_o weak_a convert_n and_o child_n of_o light_n walk_v
faith_n and_o to_o follow_v hard_o after_o the_o growth_n of_o sanctification_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o face_n of_o god_n and_o let_v we_o so_o extol_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o freedom_n of_o the_o believer_n from_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n that_o we_o neglect_v not_o to_o keep_v up_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o the_o command_v thereof_o as_o the_o perpetual_a rule_n of_o new_a obedience_n the_o use_n whereof_o be_v very_o profitable_a in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o a_o christian_a life_n to_o hold_v forth_o the_o duty_n of_o believer_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o show_v unto_o they_o by_o their_o short-coming_a in_o duty_n the_o poison_n and_o power_n of_o corruption_n remain_v in_o the_o saint_n and_o to_o make_v they_o sensible_a of_o the_o necessity_n of_o fly_v daily_o to_o that_o impute_a righteousness_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o draw_v strength_n from_o christ_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o abundant_a fruit_n whereby_o christ_n shall_v be_v more_o and_o more_o precious_a in_o our_o eye_n and_o be_v acknowledge_v absolute_o necessary_a for_o our_o justification_n sanctification_n and_o salvation_n 15._o when_o question_n be_v make_v concern_v christian_n virtue_n and_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o we_o the_o order_n of_o god_n work_v hold_v forth_o to_o we_o in_o scripture_n be_v careful_o to_o be_v mark_v by_o we_o which_o be_v that_o sense_n of_o sin_n shall_v go_v before_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o the_o law_n be_v a_o pedagogue_n to_o christ_n for_o he_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n to_o repentance_n matth._n 9_o 13._o and_o faith_n in_o christ_n go_v before_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n before_o the_o sensible_a approbation_n of_o they_o and_o approbation_n of_o the_o fruit_n by_o scripture_n go_v before_o the_o sensible_a feeling_n of_o the_o believer_n and_o the_o quiet_v of_o the_o conscience_n in_o its_o approbation_n of_o what_o the_o scripture_n approve_v for_o after_o we_o have_v believe_v we_o come_v to_o be_v seal_v ephes._n 1._o 13._o now_o for_o the_o not_o observe_v this_o order_n many_o real_a christian_n do_v make_v unto_o themselves_o a_o very_a un-comfortable_a life_n for_o albeit_o they_o be_v convince_v of_o sin_n and_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o inability_n to_o help_v themselves_o and_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o help_v and_o do_v lead_v a_o life_n blameless_a yet_o do_v they_o unhappy_o suspend_v the_o acknowledge_v of_o the_o work_n of_o faith_n bestow_v upon_o they_o and_o do_v disquiet_v themselves_o so_o as_o they_o can_v rest_v on_o christ_n but_o do_v quarrel_v the_o reality_n of_o their_o faith_n till_o they_o shall_v feel_v and_o perceive_v with_o approbation_n of_o their_o conscience_n such_o and_o such_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o themselves_o and_o that_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n as_o they_o have_v fore-imagined_n to_o be_v the_o necessary_a evidence_n of_o faith_n yea_o and_o they_o refuse_v to_o account_v themselves_o person_n justify_v because_o they_o can_v perceive_v such_o mature_a fruit_n in_o themselves_o as_o they_o conceive_v must_v not_o only_o be_v but_o be_v acknowledge_v also_o to_o be_v in_o the_o justify_v person_n before_o he_o can_v lay_v hold_n on_o justification_n such_o person_n do_v in_o effect_n invert_v the_o order_n which_o they_o shall_v observe_v for_o when_o it_o be_v their_o part_n to_o fly_v unto_o christ_n the_o only_a mediator_n because_o they_o come_v short_a of_o new_a obedience_n and_o because_o they_o be_v load_v with_o sin_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v god_n reconcile_v to_o they_o and_o by_o his_o spirit_n pour_v in_o of_o his_o grace_n in_o their_o soul_n to_o make_v they_o more_o holy_a they_o take_v another_o and_o contrary_a course_n by_o suspend_v their_o faith_n upon_o their_o work_n and_o do_v exact_a of_o themselves_o work_v before_o faith_n and_o so_o do_v weaken_v their_o own_o faith_n and_o hinder_v it_o to_o bring_v forth_o such_o fruit_n as_o they_o do_v require_v it_o be_v reason_n indeed_o to_o prove_v our_o faith_n by_o our_o work_n and_o it_o be_v just_a that_o such_o a_o faith_n be_v account_v dead_a which_o be_v not_o accompany_v with_o the_o purpose_n and_o endeavour_v to_o live_v holy_o just_o and_o sober_o but_o it_o be_v against_o all_o reason_n and_o equity_n to_o condemn_v weak_a faith_n accompany_v with_o the_o purpose_n of_o a_o new_a life_n as_o if_o it_o be_v no_o faith_n because_o it_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o bring_v forth_o so_o fair_a and_o full_o ripe_a fruit_n as_o the_o weak_a believer_n will_v it_o be_v their_o wisdom_n when_o they_o perceive_v such_o impotency_n to_o do_v what_o be_v good_a and_o such_o strength_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n in_o they_o to_o fly_v unto_o the_o redeemer_n so_o much_o the_o more_o and_o in_o he_o to_o seek_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o strength_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n and_o to_o be_v suck_a juice_n and_o sap_n out_o of_o he_o as_o the_o true_a vine_n for_o if_o we_o come_v to_o he_o and_o abide_v in_o he_o we_o shall_v bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n job._n 15._o 4_o 5._o for_o faith_n in_o christ_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n go_v before_o good_a work_n for_o only_o they_o who_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o abide_v in_o he_o do_v bring_v forth_o abundant_a fruit_n and_o not_o they_o who_o upon_o the_o apprehension_n of_o their_o want_n of_o fruit_n do_v loose_a or_o slacken_v their_o grip_n of_o faith_n and_o upon_o discouragement_n be_v ready_a to_o depart_v from_o the_o live_a god_n 16._o the_o like_a wisdom_n be_v require_v in_o deal_v with_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n concern_v the_o preparatory_a disposition_n of_o such_o as_o may_v confident_o come_v unto_o christ_n to_o be_v justify_v sanctify_a and_o save_v for_o albeit_o it_o be_v true_a that_o all_o that_o come_v to_o christ_n aught_o to_o come_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o wrath_n and_o death_n deserve_v for_o their_o sin_n aught_o to_o come_v with_o contrition_n of_o heart_n with_o godly_a sorrow_n for_o their_o sin_n and_o a_o humble_a renunciation_n of_o all_o confidence_n in_o themselves_o yet_o must_v not_o such_o person_n as_o do_v not_o satisfy_v themselves_o in_o the_o measure_n or_o sincerity_n of_o such_o preparatory_a disposition_n in_o themselves_o be_v keep_v back_o or_o debar_v from_o come_v to_o christ_n because_o they_o not_o only_o want_v as_o they_o conceive_v both_o the_o humiliation_n and_o sorrow_n of_o heart_n for_o sin_n and_o fear_v of_o wrath_n require_v in_o such_o as_o have_v access_n unto_o christ_n but_o also_o do_v perceive_v in_o themselves_o such_o blindness_n of_o mind_n and_o vanity_n thereof_o such_o stupidity_n of_o conscience_n and_o stubborness_n of_o a_o proud_a heart_n as_o be_v not_o fit_a as_o they_o conceive_v to_o be_v receive_v by_o christ_n or_o fit_a to_o be_v comfort_v by_o he_o such_o person_n i_o say_v be_v not_o to_o be_v forthwith_o debar_v from_o come_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o ofttimes_o sincerity_n of_o conviction_n compunction_n and_o humiliation_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o such_o as_o be_v displease_v with_o their_o own_o short-coming_a in_o such_o preparatory_a disposition_n more_o than_o in_o many_o other_o who_o make_v a_o fair_a show_n and_o profession_n of_o their_o godly_a sorrow_n and_o humiliation_n and_o be_v well_o please_v with_o themselves_o in_o that_o respect_n we_o must_v be_v wary_a also_o while_o we_o require_v sorrow_n and_o humiliation_n and_o other_o like_a preparatory_a disposition_n in_o they_o who_o may_v come_v unto_o christ_n lest_o we_o secret_o import_v and_o insinuat_fw-la a_o sort_n of_o merit_n to_o be_v in_o such_o disposition_n so_o as_o if_o he_o that_o do_v not_o perceive_v himself_o thus_o qualify_v can_v expect_v no_o good_a at_o christ_n hand_n except_o he_o have_v in_o his_o hand_n such_o preparatory_a disposition_n as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o price_n of_o purchase_v address_n to_o christ._n but_o let_v we_o hold_v this_o fast_n that_o the_o more_o poor_a and_o empty_a a_o man_n be_v in_o his_o own_o eye_n he_o ought_v to_o draw_v the_o more_o near_o unto_o the_o riches_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n because_o in_o he_o only_o be_v to_o be_v find_v all_o the_o treasure_n of_o every_o save_a grace_n and_o preparatory_a disposition_n for_o receive_v thereof_o he_o be_v that_o exalt_a prince_n who_o give_v repentance_n unto_o israel_n act._n 5._o 31._o he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o faith_n unto_o who_o all_o they_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o want_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n do_v sigh_n in_o themselves_o ought_v and_o safe_o may_v come_v that_o they_o may_v have_v from_o he_o a_o more_o ample_a
deep_o call_v unto_o deep_a at_o the_o noise_n of_o thy_o water-spout_n all_o thy_o wave_n and_o billow_n be_v go_v over_o i_o and_o psal._n 77._o 7_o 8._o will_n the_o lord_n cast_v off_o for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o be_v his_o grace_n clean_o go_v for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o etc._n etc._n at_o last_o he_o discover_v his_o duty_n to_o believe_v in_o god_n and_o conclude_v against_o himself_o that_o his_o give_v so_o far_o way_n to_o the_o tentation_n be_v his_o infirmity_n 19_o we_o must_v distinguish_v worldy_a sorrow_n and_o hypochondriack-passion_n and_o perturbation_n of_o mind_n from_o case_n of_o conscience_n and_o spiritual_a exercise_n in_o the_o wrestle_n of_o faith_n that_o for_o a_o natural_a disease_n and_o distemper_v a_o pertinent_a remedy_n may_v be_v call_v for_o from_o the_o bodily_a physician_n and_o to_o such_o as_o be_v under_o a_o spiritual_a exercise_n the_o doubt_n of_o their_o conscience_n may_v be_v prudent_o louse_v in_o such_o a_o case_n when_o both_o the_o bodily_a distemper_n and_o spiritual_a exercise_n be_v join_v circumspection_n be_v necessary_a that_o proportionable_a remedy_n be_v use_v by_o the_o physician_n and_o the_o pastor_n or_o prudent_a friend_n that_o bodily_a medicine_n and_o spiritual_a consolation_n may_v be_v each_o in_o their_o own_o time_n and_o order_n wise_o make_v use_n of_o and_o because_o it_o use_v to_o fall_v out_o that_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n and_o distemper_n of_o bodily_a humour_n be_v oftentimes_o join_v one_o with_o another_o let_v it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o a_o word_n be_v casten_z in_o here_o for_o advertisement_n 20._o in_o cure_v case_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o louse_v some_o one_o doubt_n or_o other_o but_o after_o satisfaction_n give_v to_o the_o party_n afflict_v concern_v the_o present_a case_n which_o have_v trouble_v they_o they_o must_v learn_v to_o observe_v other_o cause_n which_o may_v trouble_v they_o afterward_o wherewith_o for_o the_o present_a they_o possible_o be_v not_o trouble_v and_o must_v be_v direct_v to_o acquaint_v themselves_o with_o christ_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v relief_n from_o every_o sin_n and_o every_o sort_n of_o misery_n and_o to_o that_o end_n and_o purpose_n they_o must_v consecrat_v and_o devout_a themselves_o to_o he_o to_o depend_v upon_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n and_o at_o all_o time_n whatsoever_o way_n he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o exercise_v they_o for_o whosoever_o do_v come_v unto_o christ_n must_v come_v of_o set_a purpose_n to_o abide_v in_o he_o and_o never_o depart_v from_o he_o but_o to_o live_v in_o he_o and_o draw_v grace_n after_o grace_n out_o of_o his_o fullness_n grace_n to_o mortify_v sin_n grace_v to_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n daily_o according_a as_o they_o find_v new_a guiltiness_n contract_v and_o weakness_n in_o themselves_o to_o do_v command_v duty_n for_o except_o the_o do_v so_o they_o shall_v easy_o slide_v back_o from_o their_o begin_a sanctification_n and_o furnish_v mater_fw-la to_o satan_n for_o raise_v of_o new_a doubt_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o new_a tentation_n unto_o sin_n wherein_o they_o have_v not_o fall_v before_o therefore_o must_v they_o keep_v the_o habit_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n in_o actual_a exercise_n daily_o 21._o in_o deal_v with_o a_o trouble_a conscience_n let_v not_o the_o comforter_n whether_o a_o pastor_n or_o a_o prudent_a friend_n trust_v to_o his_o ability_n or_o arrogat_fw-la to_o himself_o above_o what_o be_v due_a to_o he_o but_o let_v he_o keep_v his_o eye_n upon_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o his_o heart_n be_v pray_v to_o god_n to_o bless_v the_o word_n in_o his_o mouth_n giving_z glory_n to_o god_n express_o if_o he_o perceive_v the_o afflict_a party_n lay_v hold_n on_o god_n word_n deliver_v by_o he_o and_o let_v he_o also_o teach_v the_o afflict_a to_o lift_v his_o eye_n to_o the_o lord_n when_o the_o word_n of_o consolation_n be_v dispense_v to_o he_o by_o the_o minister_n or_o prudent_a friend_n that_o god_n may_v have_v the_o glory_n in_o his_o consolation_n and_o no_o more_o ascribe_v to_o the_o instrument_n than_o be_v due_a for_o the_o minister_n may_v sow_v the_o seed_n and_o plant_v and_o water_n but_o god_n only_o can_v give_v the_o increase_n man_n be_v ready_a to_o fail_v in_o this_o point_n and_o mar_v the_o blessing_n for_o god_n be_v a_o jealous_a god_n and_o will_v not_o give_v his_o glory_n to_o another_o 22._o in_o case_n the_o expect_a consolation_n be_v not_o find_v or_o the_o doubt_n propound_v be_v not_o solve_v so_o soon_o as_o be_v desire_v let_v the_o afflict_a be_v exhort_v that_o he_o make_v not_o haste_n in_o seek_v comfort_n but_o patient_o submit_v himself_o to_o god_n will_v in_o exercise_v he_o for_o a_o while_n and_o humble_v himself_o under_o his_o mighty_a hand_n in_o meekness_n wait_v for_o clearness_n and_o comfort_n in_o due_a time_n for_o affliction_n be_v send_v to_o work_v patience_n and_o patience_n to_o work_v experience_n and_o experience_n to_o work_v hope_n which_o shall_v not_o make_v the_o patient_a man_n ashamed_a and_o it_o be_v far_o better_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o lie_v for_o a_o time_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o affliction_n till_o it_o be_v daunt_v and_o subdue_v then_o before_o patience_n have_v have_v the_o perfect_a work_n to_o seek_v to_o have_v its_o foolish_a wish_n grant_v unto_o it_o for_o if_o once_o a_o soul_n hearty_o submit_v itself_o to_o god_n or_o strive_v to_o submit_v and_o patient_o wait_v on_o consolation_n will_v be_v find_v not_o far_o off_o 23._o in_o regard_v the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n work_v the_o conversion_n of_o a_o man_n may_v begin_v before_o it_o can_v be_v mark_v it_o be_v the_o part_n of_o he_o who_o meddle_v with_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n to_o deal_v tender_o with_o the_o afflict_a and_o so_o to_o temper_v his_o speech_n as_o he_o may_v both_o further_a repentance_n and_o faith_n pre-supposing_a the_o party_n exercise_n may_v prove_v a_o begin_a work_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v better_a so_o to_o judge_v in_o charity_n of_o god_n dispensation_n then_o to_o foster_v sinister_a suspicion_n of_o the_o party_n afflict_v which_o may_v ready_o break_v forth_o in_o some_o unhappy_a expression_n to_o the_o hurt_v of_o the_o patient_a and_o hinder_v his_o profit_v by_o what_o may_v be_v say_v beside_o 24._o because_o we_o have_v to_o do_v in_o this_o book_n with_o the_o weak_a believer_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n be_v flee_v or_o fly_v unto_o christ_n with_o a_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n but_o do_v fear_v they_o be_v not_o or_o shall_v not_o be_v admit_v into_o that_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n for_o this_o and_o that_o pretend_a reason_n therefore_o it_o will_v be_v to_o purpose_n in_o comfort_v they_o to_o make_v use_n as_o of_o other_o scripture_n so_o in_o special_a of_o these_o two_o passage_n the_o one_o 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o the_o other_o 1_o cor._n 1_o 30._o the_o one_o serve_v to_o convince_v they_o that_o they_o be_v already_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o of_o the_o number_n of_o believer_n in_o christ_n how_o strong_o soever_o they_o be_v assault_v with_o fear_n doubt_n and_o suspicion_n that_o it_o be_v otherways_o for_o in_o this_o passage_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o the_o apostle_n sum_v up_o the_o whole_a gospel_n in_o few_o word_n hold_v forth_o first_o that_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n in_o three_o person_n be_v in_o the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o godhead_n the_o mediator_n christ_n jesus_n and_o be_v upon_o the_o work_n of_o reconcile_a the_o world_n to_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o transgression_n unto_o they_o that_o receive_v the_o gracious_a offer_n of_o reconciliation_n tender_v through_o christ_n in_o the_o gospel_n second_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n ●ath_v commit_v unto_o his_o minister_n the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n that_o they_o with_o authority_n may_v offer_v reconciliation_n and_o friendship_n with_o god_n unto_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n three_o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v send_v forth_o and_o direct_v as_o ambassador_n to_o exhort_v and_o request_v m●n_z in_o god_n name_n and_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n god_n mediator_n manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n four_o that_o so_o many_o as_o do_v consent_n unto_o and_o embrace_v the_o gracious_a offer_n of_o reconciliation_n be_v reckon_v to_o be_v believer_n even_o all_o they_o who_o do_v acknowledge_v their_o natural_a enimity_n and_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o do_v welcome_a the_o message_n of_o reconciliation_n send_v by_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o do_v engage_v themselves_o to_o hold_v fast_o this_o covenant_n
may_v be_v find_v in_o humane_a history_n who_o from_o the_o principle_n of_o nature_n and_o civil_a education_n have_v lead_v a_o more_o innocent_a and_o blameless_a life_n than_o many_o who_o glory_n in_o their_o christian_a profession_n for_o who_o conviction_n and_o condemnation_n pagan_n and_o infidel_n shall_v arise_v in_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n and_o be_v bring_v forth_o for_o a_o witness_n against_o many_o call_v christian_n and_o who_o shall_v be_v beat_v with_o few_o stripe_n than_o many_o who_o be_v counterfeit_a christian_n and_o do_v disgrace_v the_o profession_n of_o christian_a religion_n but_o we_o have_v here_o to_o do_v with_o these_o that_o be_v indeed_o regenerate_v and_o endue_v with_o save_v faith_n who_o endeavour_n to_o be_v holy_a and_o do_v lament_v their_o imperfection_n and_o do_v not_o give_v over_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v profit_v in_o holiness_n albeit_o with_o grief_n and_o fear_n they_o go_v on_o heavy_o suspect_v they_o meet_v at_o last_o with_o disappointment_n and_o be_v exclude_v from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n for_o their_o come_n short_a of_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n in_o the_o point_n of_o righteousness_n 2._o in_o this_o case_n first_o the_o complaint_n of_o the_o afflict_a concern_v the_o imperfection_n of_o his_o life_n and_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v true_a and_o just_a must_v be_v admit_v grant_v and_o confirm_v and_o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v teach_v upon_o this_o consideration_n to_o be_v serious_o humble_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n that_o he_o may_v profit_v in_o self-denial_n and_o more_o and_o more_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n or_o inherent_a righteousness_n to_o which_o purpose_n let_v he_o consider_v yet_o more_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o original_a sin_n not_o yet_o thorough_o mortify_v in_o he_o let_v he_o look_v upon_o and_o acknowledge_v in_o his_o present_a case_n the_o bitter_a root_n of_o infidelity_n and_o inclination_n to_o depart_v away_o from_o the_o live_a god_n even_o then_o when_o he_o be_v most_o call_v and_o have_v most_o need_n to_o draw_v near_o and_o adhere_v unto_o he_o upon_o the_o sight_n and_o consideration_n whereof_o he_o shall_v perceive_v a_o necessity_n daily_o to_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ._n second_o let_v the_o necessity_n and_o timeous_a use-making_a of_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n be_v show_v unto_o he_o which_o righteousness_n if_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o set_v before_o we_o for_o a_o refuge_n what_o shall_v become_v of_o we_o in_o the_o examination_n of_o our_o work_n and_o feel_v imperfection_n of_o our_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o here_o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v exhort_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o unrighteousness_n to_o run_v always_o towards_o christ_n to_o have_v his_o nakedness_n hide_v by_o the_o garment_n of_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n and_o exhort_v to_o apply_v and_o embrace_v more_o and_o more_o strait_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n our_o cautioner_n who_o be_v judicial_o by_o the_o father_n adjudge_v to_o the_o believer_n flee_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n 1_o cor._n 1._o 30_o but_o of_o he_o be_v you_o in_o christ_n jesus_n who_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n and_o redemption_n and_o here_o let_v the_o friend_n comforter_n of_o the_o afflict_a insist_v that_o he_o may_v consider_v the_o value_n of_o the_o ransom_n pay_v for_o we_o and_o of_o the_o righteousness_n purchase_v unto_o we_o for_o the_o only_a garment_n able_a to_o hide_v our_o nakedness_n three_o let_v the_o afflict_a person_n understand_v that_o it_o be_v righteousness_n with_o god_n to_o be_v displease_v with_o his_o child_n when_o they_o esteem_v little_a and_o make_v little_a use_n of_o the_o dear_a buy_v righteousness_n which_o christ_n have_v purchase_v and_o that_o in_o wisdom_n and_o righteousness_n christ_n do_v not_o increase_v the_o inherent_a righteousness_n of_o those_o who_o slight_a he_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n for_o we_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o the_o perfection_n of_o inherent_a righteousness_n which_o in_o this_o life_n be_v impossible_a but_o by_o the_o perfection_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n impute_v unto_o the_o believer_n in_o he_o four_o when_o the_o pastor_n or_o prudent_a friend_n perceive_v the_o afflict_a now_o convict_v of_o his_o mistake_n and_o error_n and_o to_o be_v bring_v to_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o justification_n of_o a_o sinner_n do_v come_v by_o the_o imputation_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n alone_o without_o respect_n to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n and_o that_o the_o justify_v man_n must_v set_v himself_o to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n in_o the_o gracious_a furniture_n which_o christ_n have_v promise_v to_o the_o believer_n now_o i_o say_v let_v he_o enter_v upon_o the_o comparison_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o penitent_a believer_n in_o christ_n with_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n and_o then_o shall_v it_o be_v clear_a to_o the_o afflict_a person_n that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o weak_a christian_a shall_v far_o exceed_v the_o righteousness_n not_o only_o of_o pagan_n but_o also_o of_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n of_o the_o high_a pitch_n and_o that_o for_o three_o reason_n the_o first_o be_v this_o the_o pharisee_n cut_v short_a the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o law_n unto_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o own_o external_a obedience_n lest_o the_o law_n whereby_o he_o seek_v justification_n shall_v condemn_v he_o but_o the_o christian_a acknowledge_v in_o all_o thing_n the_o spirituality_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o law_n and_o do_v not_o reject_v any_o duty_n which_o the_o law_n do_v command_v but_o find_v himself_o bind_v to_o obey_v the_o law_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o aim_v to_o be_v perfect_a as_o his_o heavenly_a father_n be_v perfect_a the_o second_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o work_n which_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi or_o scribe_n do_v be_v all_o counterfeit_a and_o corrupt_a in_o regard_n they_o arise_v from_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o natural_a man_n and_o be_v do_v for_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o carnal_a end_n and_o not_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n but_o the_o work_n of_o the_o christian_a exercise_v faith_n in_o christ_n proceed_v from_o the_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o he_o and_o be_v do_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n by_o he_o the_o three_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o righteousness_n of_o work_n which_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n do_v affectat_fw-la be_v altogether_o impossible_a and_o make_v void_a the_o grace_n of_o god_n for_o if_o righteousness_n be_v by_o work_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o grace_n it_o overturne_v that_o heavenly_a way_n of_o justification_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o pharisee_fw-mi by_o work_n can_v consist_v with_o the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n of_o grace_n but_o the_o righteousness_n and_o justification_n of_o the_o christian_a by_o faith_n in_o christ_n be_v possible_a and_o ready_a at_o hand_n to_o every_o one_o who_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o worthiness_n and_o slay_v unto_o christ_n for_o grace_n and_o this_o be_v a_o most_o perfect_a way_n of_o righteousness_n which_o depend_v upon_o the_o obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n impute_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o he_o which_o righteousness_n only_o can_v stand_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n as_o perfect_v which_o only_o do_v open_v the_o fountain_n whereby_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n run_v down_o upon_o the_o man_n justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o enable_v he_o to_o bring_v forth_o the_o acceptable_a fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n by_o this_o comparison_n it_o do_v easy_o appear_v that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o weak_a believer_n in_o christ_n do_v far_o exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n and_o thus_o may_v the_o afflict_a be_v solve_v of_o his_o doubt_n arise_v from_o comparison_n of_o his_o righteousness_n with_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o pharisee_n 3._o if_o these_o ground_n of_o satisfaction_n lay_v before_o the_o afflict_a do_v not_o satisfy_v but_o his_o wound_n do_v break_v up_o and_o bleed_v afresh_o let_v we_o examine_v his_o reason_n o_o say_v he_o what_o i_o have_v be_v aim_v at_o in_o the_o way_n of_o new_a obedience_n i_o suspect_v be_v not_o accept_v of_o god_n because_o i_o find_v not_o these_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o as_o evidence_n of_o a_o new_a creature_n gal._n 5._o 22._o love_n joy_n peace_n long-suffering_a gentleness_n goodness_n faith_n meekness_n and_o temperance_n the_o defect_n and_o little_a feel_n of_o these_o fruit_n do_v argue_v that_o god_n do_v not_o approve_v my_o work_n for_o answer_v of_o
but_o not_o be_v rest_v upon_o it_o be_v indeed_o natural_a unto_o we_o to_o seek_v to_o have_v perfection_n in_o ourselves_o for_o our_o own_o glory_n and_o not_o to_o follow_v the_o way_n prescribe_v to_o we_o of_o god_n for_o perfect_v of_o we_o unto_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o the_o flower_n of_o israel_n after_o the_o flesh_n rom._n 9_o and_o 10._o now_o the_o order_n of_o god_n be_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v first_o justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n that_o be_v god_n will_v have_v we_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o confess_v unto_o he_o our_o sin_n and_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o work_n before_o in_o and_o after_o our_o conversion_n and_o to_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o worthiness_n or_o our_o own_o strength_n and_o betake_v we_o to_o that_o righteousness_n which_o by_o the_o obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n be_v purchase_v unto_o we_o and_o offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n to_o be_v account_v we_o of_o mere_a free_a grace_n in_o the_o second_o place_n god_n will_v have_v we_o be_v clothe_v with_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n to_o approach_v unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n that_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n we_o may_v receive_v the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o a_o large_a and_o large_a measure_n for_o increase_a our_o sanctification_n more_o and_o more_o and_o in_o the_o three_o place_n he_o will_v have_v we_o as_o we_o profit_v and_o grow_v in_o holiness_n to_o give_v the_o thanks_o and_o praise_n and_o glory_n thereof_o unto_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o both_o justify_v we_o and_o sanctify_v we_o by_o his_o own_o spirit_n and_o in_o as_o far_o as_o we_o come_v short_a in_o the_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n which_o we_o aim_v at_o he_o will_v have_v we_o to_o be_v humble_v in_o ourselves_o and_o lay_v fast_o hold_v on_o christ_n who_o justify_v we_o that_o he_o by_o his_o spirit_n may_v more_o and_o more_o sanctify_v we_o and_o that_o because_o christ_n be_v make_v of_o god_n unto_o we_o not_o only_o our_o righteousness_n but_o also_o our_o sanctification_n as_o the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o 1_o cor._n 1._o 30._o now_o when_o any_o man_n break_v this_o order_n and_o seek_v justification_n by_o christ_n but_o sanctification_n by_o himself_o as_o it_o be_v and_o when_o he_o find_v sanctification_n not_o to_o grow_v as_o he_o hope_v it_o shall_v do_v not_o fly_v in_o to_o the_o garment_n of_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n which_o alone_o be_v able_a to_o hide_v his_o nakedness_n rev._n 3._o 18._o but_o in_o stead_n of_o humble_v himself_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n be_v ready_a to_o call_v his_o justification_n and_o conversion_n in_o question_n and_o to_o cast_v it_o away_o as_o it_o be_v what_o wonder_n be_v it_o that_o god_n be_v just_o offend_v because_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o in_o due_a estimation_n and_o precious_a in_o that_o man_n eye_n do_v not_o grant_v unto_o he_o a_o better_a measure_n of_o sanctification_n especial_o while_o he_o be_v contend_v to_o have_v his_o own_o prescribe_a measure_n of_o sanctification_n with_o the_o prejudice_n of_o that_o divine_a righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o will_v not_o as_o a_o humble_a penitent_a hold_v grip_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n except_o he_o obtain_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n and_o freedom_n from_o wrestle_v with_o sin_n as_o he_o have_v resolve_v to_o find_v in_o himself_o before_o he_o can_v stand_v to_o his_o interest_n in_o christ_n for_o justification_n what_o wonder_n be_v it_o that_o god_n suffer_v sin_n in_o the_o afflict_a to_o put_v forth_o its_o power_n more_o than_o before_o that_o he_o may_v teach_v his_o young_a convert_n and_o soldier_n ignorant_a of_o his_o duty_n and_o of_o god_n order_n of_o proceed_v with_o his_o child_n to_o be_v more_o wise_a and_o to_o adhere_v more_o close_o under_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sinfulness_n unto_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n unto_o which_o he_o do_v fly_v and_o be_v force_v to_o fly_v in_o his_o conversion_n as_o also_o that_o he_o may_v teach_v his_o child_n that_o sanctification_n must_v be_v draw_v out_o of_o no_o other_o fountain_n than_o christ_n out_o of_o who_o fullness_n we_o must_v receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n and_o who_o by_o faith_n apply_v to_o his_o redeem_v one_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n and_o by_o faith_n apply_v and_o work_v in_o they_o sanctification_n purchase_v unto_o they_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n 5._o wherefore_o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o mistake_n first_o let_v the_o afflict_a when_o he_o perceive_v and_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v more_o than_o he_o conceive_v he_o shall_v have_v find_v in_o himself_o after_o his_o conversion_n let_v he_o i_o say_v forthwith_o humble_a himself_o before_o god_n acknowledge_v his_o natural_a uncleanness_n and_o utter_a inability_n by_o his_o own_o strength_n to_o resist_v sin_n and_o be_v humble_v at_o the_o heart_n let_v he_o bless_v god_n who_o of_o his_o free_a grace_n have_v prepare_v and_o free_o grant_v unto_o he_o a_o righteousness_n purchase_v by_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 21._o with_o which_o be_v clothe_v he_o may_v stand_v before_o the_o tribunal_n of_o grace_n absolve_v next_o let_v he_o earnest_o and_o daily_o pray_v that_o he_o may_v both_o hold_v fast_o grip_n of_o that_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n by_o faith_n and_o out_o of_o the_o same_o fountain_n of_o god_n glorious_a grace_n in_o christ_n study_v to_o increase_v in_o sanctification_n and_o piece_n and_o piece_n to_o mortify_v and_o abolish_v the_o corruption_n of_o nature_n three_o let_v the_o afflict_a use_n the_o ordinance_n and_o mean_n appoint_v of_o god_n for_o mortify_v of_o sin_n and_o reparation_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o four_a let_v the_o afflict_a in_o the_o use_n of_o appoint_a mean_n and_o ordinance_n of_o god_n by_o faith_n look_v unto_o christ_n that_o out_o of_o he_o he_o may_v suck_v sap_n and_o the_o furniture_n of_o his_o spirit_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n for_o without_o he_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o but_o if_o we_o abide_v in_o he_o we_o shall_v bring_v forth_o abundant_a fruit_n joh._n 15._o 5._o chap._n xiii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o compare_v of_o himself_o with_o the_o hypocrite_n and_o unregenerat_a in_o those_o perfection_n they_o may_v attain_v unto_o sometime_o a_o true_a convert_n when_o he_o perceive_v how_o far_o specious_a hypocrite_n may_v make_v progress_n in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n with_o how_o many_o virtue_n they_o may_v be_v endue_v with_o how_o many_o gift_n they_o may_v be_v adorn_v how-like_a the_o foolish_a virgin_n may_v be_v unto_o the_o wise_a and_o how_o far_o temporary_a faith_n may_v carry_v a_o man_n especial_o when_o it_o be_v busk_v with_o spiritual_a common_a gift_n how_o many_o glorious_a professor_n of_o the_o true_a christian_n religion_n have_v make_v apostasy_n how_o many_o way_n man_n do_v deceive_v themselves_o and_o may_v possible_o further_a and_o further_o deceive_v themselves_o of_o which_o self-deceiving_n somewhat_o be_v speak_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o former_a book_n what_o wonder_n be_v it_o the_o weak_a convert_n stagger_v and_o fear_v lest_o he_o also_o deceive_v himself_o especial_o when_o he_o see_v nothing_o in_o himself_o which_o may_v not_o be_v counterfeit_a 2._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n wherein_o many_o have_v be_v puzzle_v we_o must_v yield_v to_o the_o afflict_a that_o there_o be_v many_o indeed_o who_o do_v deceive_v and_o destroy_v themselves_o with_o their_o vain_a thought_n which_o because_o it_o do_v very_o frequent_o come_v to_o pass_v it_o shall_v stir_v up_o all_o man_n to_o be_v circumspect_a and_o wary_a lest_o they_o deceive_v themselves_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o their_o salvation_n and_o for_o that_o intent_n to_o examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o say_v 2_o cor._n 13._o lest_o they_o be_v beguile_v and_o so_o perish_v and_o because_o tender_a faith_n be_v easy_o hurt_v all_o their_o fear_n must_v be_v turn_v into_o a_o holy_a carefulness_n to_o be_v find_v sincere_a and_o serious_a in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o lord_n ordinance_n lest_o satan_n beguile_v they_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n or_o on_o the_o left_a and_o for_o this_o end_n we_o offer_v advice_n to_o the_o afflict_a to_o discern_v thing_n that_o differ_v and_o first_o to_o distinguish_v gift_n common_a to_o hypocrite_n and_o true_a convert_n from_o save_v grace_n or_o benefit_n accompany_v salvation_n for_o learning_n and_o skill_n to_o govern_v great_a matter_n and_o eloquence_n and_o understanding_n of_o deep_a mystery_n and_o revelation_n of_o
faith_n when_o the_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v from_o we_o and_o we_o be_v put_v to_o hard_a exercise_n wherein_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o glorify_v our_o god_n for_o his_o truth_n and_o grace_n whereof_o we_o have_v sometime_o have_v confirmation_n by_o feel_a consolation_n and_o patient_o to_o wait_v till_o he_o restore_v unto_o we_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o if_o in_o the_o want_n of_o sensible_a consolation_n we_o shall_v put_v aspersion_n upon_o the_o lord_n work_v and_o grace_n bestow_v upon_o we_o and_o call_v they_o in_o question_n we_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o so_o do_v more_o careful_a of_o self-satisfaction_n then_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n which_o god_n require_v of_o we_o four_o let_v the_o afflict_a learn_v so_o to_o describe_v and_o define_v every_o save_a grace_n of_o faith_n repentance_n hope_v love_n and_o mortification_n of_o sin_n as_o the_o description_n may_v take_v in_o the_o mean_a measure_n of_o those_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o sound_a faith_n where_o there_o be_v not_o a_o full_a persuasion_n for_o the_o hungry_a look_v of_o a_o tremble_a sinner_n unto_o christ_n must_v not_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o restrain_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n to_o the_o shed_v of_o tear_n for_o many_o other_o sign_n of_o repentance_n may_v be_v find_v where_o these_o be_v seldom_o such_o as_o be_v the_o hatred_n of_o sin_n strive_v against_o all_o tentation_n unto_o it_o and_o fly_v from_o all_o occasion_n which_o may_v ensnare_v the_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o trespass_n five_o let_v the_o afflict_a distinguish_v between_o faith_n and_o sense_n of_o joy_n both_o be_v god_n gift_n but_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n whereupon_o we_o be_v command_v to_o rest_v ourselves_o shall_v be_v rest_v on_o constant_o whatsoever_o dispensation_n of_o joy_n or_o grief_n we_o shall_v meet_v with_o and_o this_o be_v our_o perpetual_a duty_n but_o sense_n be_v at_o god_n free_a dispensation_n to_o give_v and_o withdraw_v and_o restore_v at_o his_o pleasure_n and_o be_v a_o movable_a benefit_n which_o the_o lord_n as_o his_o wisdom_n see_v expedient_a for_o our_o good_a do_v give_v and_o continue_v withdraw_v and_o restore_v diminish_v or_o augment_v and_o therefore_o the_o afflict_a be_v bind_v by_o duty_n still_o to_o believe_v and_o rejoice_v in_o believe_v and_o to_o have_v the_o joy_n of_o sense_n also_o he_o may_v lawful_o study_v but_o ought_v not_o to_o suffer_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v weaken_v by_o the_o want_n of_o it_o as_o the_o prophet_n do_v teach_v we_o ps._n 42._o 11._o and_o 43._o 5._o and_o 88_o last_o of_o all_o let_v the_o afflict_a be_v pose_v upon_o his_o conscience_n if_o he_o dare_v condemn_v his_o fly_n to_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n as_o no_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o if_o he_o there_fw-mi deny_v his_o hunger_n after_o renew_a consolation_n and_o behold_v of_o god_n with_o joy_n as_o reconcile_v in_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n and_o of_o communion_n with_o he_o therefore_o let_v he_o confess_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o 10._o this_o my_o doubt_v be_v my_o infirmity_n i_o will_v remember_v the_o year_n of_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o lord_n chap._n xvi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o not_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v for_o his_o growth_n some_o true_a convert_n be_v bring_v to_o suspect_v their_o own_o regeneration_n because_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n lead_v to_o sanctification_n and_o salvation_n sundry_a complain_n and_o say_v i_o do_v not_o perceive_v the_o lord_n blessing_n on_o my_o pain_n and_o diligence_n i_o grow_v not_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n spiritual_a my_o faith_n do_v not_o grow_v by_o hear_v nor_o read_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n nor_o by_o meditation_n of_o it_o i_o do_v not_o prevail_v in_o wrestle_v against_o my_o inbred_a sin_n and_o corrupt_a nature_n neither_o by_o prayer_n nor_o fast_v and_o therefore_o what_o shall_v i_o judge_v of_o my_o state_n but_o that_o it_o be_v like_a i_o be_o not_o convert_v and_o renew_v for_o if_o i_o be_v indeed_o convert_v and_o reconcile_v with_o god_n i_o conceive_v it_o shall_v fair_o otherways_o with_o i_o than_o it_o do_v 2._o in_o this_o case_n the_o true_a convert_n be_v in_o hazard_n of_o grow_v slack_a and_o careless_a in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o to_o grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o and_o limit_v of_o he_o unto_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o profit_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n and_o make_v he_o know_v how_o far_o he_o have_v profit_v and_o advance_v in_o the_o course_n of_o sanctification_n yea_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o in_o this_o case_n the_o convert_v not_o only_o become_v cold-rife_a in_o the_o exercise_n of_o piety_n but_o also_o turn_v loose_a in_o his_o conversation_n and_o follow_v the_o allurement_n of_o the_o world_n have_v so_o far_o hearken_v to_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o think_v it_o in_o vain_a that_o he_o have_v washen_v his_o hand_n in_o innocency_n as_o ps._n 73._o befall_v the_o prophet_n 3._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o doubt_n the_o afflict_a have_v reason_n to_o check_v himself_o for_o harken_v so_o far_o unto_o the_o temptation_n as_o to_o join_v with_o hypocrite_n in_o his_o complaint_n isa._n 58._o 5._o wherefore_o have_v we_o fast_v say_v they_o and_o thou_o ●●st_n not_o wherefore_o have_v we_o afflict_v our_o soul_n and_o thou_o like_v no_o knowledge_n but_o because_o nothing_o do_v more_o trouble_v the_o afflict_a then_o his_o suspicion_n of_o his_o own_o hypocrisy_n let_v the_o cause_n be_v search_v from_o which_o his_o suspicion_n do_v arise_v one_o of_o they_o may_v be_v this_o that_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n the_o eye_n of_o the_o afflict_a be_v more_o and_o more_o open_v to_o perceive_v the_o power_n and_o poison_n of_o his_o natural_a corruption_n more_o clear_o than_o he_o perceive_v before_o and_o this_o decipher_n of_o sin_n more_o and_o more_o do_v hinder_v he_o to_o see_v the_o growth_n of_o his_o light_n and_o the_o growth_n of_o his_o hatred_n against_o manifest_a sin_n join_v with_o the_o overturning_a of_o his_o own_o high_a imagination_n and_o native_a pride_n another_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o true_a convert_n have_v promise_v unto_o himself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n more_o and_o great_a benefit_n spiritual_a from_o god_n than_o he_o do_v by_o experience_n find_v which_o because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v he_o think_v he_o have_v not_o profit_v a_o three_o cause_n may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v about_o the_o purge_n of_o he_o from_o practical_a error_n such_o as_o be_v the_o high_a estimation_n of_o his_o own_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n as_o if_o there_o be_v some_o sort_n of_o merit_n annex_v unto_o the_o work_v prescribe_v to_o the_o convert_n by_o the_o lord_n or_o as_o if_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n have_v in_o they_o some_o force_n and_o efficacy_n in_o produce_v such_o effect_n in_o he_o as_o the_o convert_n have_v expect_v or_o as_o if_o the_o lord_n have_v oblige_v himself_o to_o bless_v sensible_o diligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n to_o the_o diligent_a man_n satisfaction_n 4._o therefore_o first_o let_v the_o afflict_a continue_v in_o his_o diligence_n and_o bewar_n of_o the_o foresay_a practical_a error_n let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v draw_v more_o virtue_n out_o of_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o by_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o ●indeth_v sin_n himself_o and_o not_o profi●ing_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o lay_v the_o fast_o hold_v on_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o on_o christ_n offer_v therein_o for_o give_v righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n second_o let_v he_o set_v upon_o the_o exercise_n of_o every_o duty_n with_o prayer_n that_o he_o may_v follow_v the_o duty_n in_o christ_n name_n with_o his_o eye_n fix_v on_o god_n grace_n and_o after_o the_o discharge_n of_o the_o duty_n let_v he_o look_v to_o christ_n that_o from_o he_o he_o may_v have_v the_o blessing_n for_o without_o christ_n we_o can_v do_v nothing_o acceptable_o nor_o with_o profit_n last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o not_o esteem_v light_o of_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o diligence_n as_o if_o he_o do_v no_o way_n profit_n but_o when_o he_o have_v right_o consider_v matter_n if_o he_o find_v the_o least_o fruit_n follow_v his_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n let_v he_o give_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o giver_n thereof_o and_o humble_o put_v up_o
and_o when_o he_o can_v not_o have_v the_o first_o place_n in_o his_o father_n blessing_n content_v himself_o with_o what_o portion_n in_o the_o earth_n he_o can_v have_v beside_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a labour_n to_o understand_v well_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o several_a article_n thereof_o and_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v no_o advantage_n to_o be_v have_v by_o exclude_v of_o himself_o from_o that_o covenant_n but_o that_o if_o he_o will_v be_v save_v in_o every_o condition_n he_o must_v draw_v near_o to_o christ_n and_o lie_v hold_v on_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o fresh_a furniture_n of_o grace_n for_o every_o duty_n for_o it_o be_v good_a always_o to_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o because_o he_o will_v destroy_v all_o they_o that_o depart_v far_o from_o he_o ps._n 73._o 27._o chap._n xxvi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v himself_o not_o only_o far_o from_o the_o measure_n of_o holiness_n which_o he_o observe_v to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o saint_n commend_v in_o scripture_n but_o also_o short_a of_o the_o measure_n which_o some_o of_o his_o acquaintance_n have_v attain_v unto_o some_o true_a convert_n be_v who_o in_o the_o time_n wherein_o they_o be_v about_o to_o strengthen_v their_o say_v by_o all_o mean_n do_v fall_n in_o comparision_n of_o themselves_o with_o other_o convert_v in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o their_o faith_n love_n endeavour_n and_o attainment_n of_o a_o holy_a conversation_n and_o find_v themselves_o very_o short_a of_o that_o measure_n which_o not_o only_o saint_n commend_v in_o scripture_n have_v attain_v unto_o but_o also_o short_a of_o what_o sundry_a of_o their_o acquaintance_n have_v gain_v and_o give_v proof_n of_o sudden_o be_v overtake_v with_o a_o sad_a suspicion_n that_o they_o may_v be_v find_v none_o of_o the_o number_n of_o true_a convert_n as_o for_o example_n when_o they_o read_v what_o david_n say_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o psalm_n and_o namely_o in_o the_o hundred_o and_o nineteen_o psalm_n they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o so_o unlike_o the_o copy_n he_o have_v cast_v unto_o they_o so_o far_o short_a of_o that_o affection_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n of_o that_o faith_n of_o that_o diligence_n of_o that_o sincerity_n of_o that_o patience_n of_o that_o fortitude_n in_o affliction_n and_o delectation_n in_o god_n which_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o servant_n of_o god_n do_v hold_v forth_o that_o they_o be_v ashamed_a to_o assume_v the_o name_n of_o a_o visible_a saint_n or_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o same_o reason_n do_v forbear_v under_o this_o exercise_n to_o apply_v unto_o themselves_o the_o precious_a promise_n make_v to_o the_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n what_o be_o i_o say_v the_o afflict_a that_o i_o shall_v presume_v to_o intrude_v myself_o in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o saint_n what_o be_o i_o that_o i_o shall_v apply_v to_o myself_o what_o be_v promise_v to_o true_a convert_n and_o sincere_a servant_n of_o god_n be_v i_o such_o a_o one_o as_o this_o person_n or_o that_o person_n be_v i_o may_v then_o for_o my_o consolation_n apply_v promise_n make_v unto_o such_o saint_n but_o now_o i_o can_v apply_v their_o privilege_n except_o for_o conviction_n of_o my_o conscience_n that_o i_o be_o just_o for_o my_o unlikeness_n unto_o they_o seclude_v from_o the_o promise_v make_v unto_o they_o and_o those_o that_o be_v like_a unto_o they_o 2._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n we_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o comparison_n of_o ourselves_o with_o the_o rule_n of_o perfection_n hold_v forth_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v to_o be_v aim_v at_o by_o all_o and_o the_o comparison_n of_o ourselves_o with_o the_o eminent_a servant_n of_o god_n who_o have_v attain_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o growth_n in_o holiness_n be_v very_o profitable_a if_o it_o be_v prudent_o manage_v for_o the_o first_o comparison_n teach_v we_o what_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o attain_v and_o the_o other_o teach_v we_o what_o may_v be_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n attain_v unto_o even_o in_o this_o life_n again_o both_o these_o comparison_n do_v serve_v to_o humble_v we_o before_o god_n when_o we_o perceive_v ourselves_o not_o only_o short_a of_o perfection_n which_o can_v be_v full_o attain_v unto_o in_o this_o life_n but_o also_o short_a of_o these_o degree_n which_o may_v be_v attain_v and_o have_v be_v attain_v by_o other_o in_o this_o life_n we_o can_v choose_v but_o think_v the_o more_o mean_o of_o ourselves_o and_o put_v down_o the_o sail_n of_o self-estimation_n three_o this_o sort_n of_o comparison_n be_v profitable_a to_o make_v we_o more_o upright_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o fly_v for_o refuge_n to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n impute_v unto_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o according_a as_o the_o example_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n who_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o privilege_n performance_n suffering_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n count_v they_o all_o but_o dung_n that_o he_o may_v win_v christ_n and_o be_v find_v in_o he_o not_o have_v his_o own_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n but_o that_o which_o be_v through_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o god_n by_o faith_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o 3._o but_o this_o sort_n of_o comparison_n be_v dangerous_a and_o hurtful_a when_o it_o tend_v to_o discouragement_n when_o it_o make_v we_o think_v little_a of_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n grant_v unto_o we_o when_o it_o make_v we_o heartless_a in_o the_o course_n of_o obedience_n and_o hopeless_a that_o we_o shall_v attain_v unto_o the_o measure_n whereunto_o the_o saint_n have_v attain_v 4._o wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v rev._n 3._o 2._o let_v he_o beware_v lest_o he_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n or_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n wherein_o he_o have_v christ_n help_n to_o look_v unto_o isa._n 42._o 3._o again_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a degree_n of_o save_a faith_n divers_a degree_n of_o the_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n and_o growth_n in_o grace_n for_o some_o be_v old_a man_n some_o young_a and_o strong_a man_n and_o some_o babe_n in_o christ_n and_o that_o the_o same_o duty_n in_o the_o same_o measure_n be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v from_o the_o tender_a and_o weak_a beginner_n which_o be_v require_v of_o the_o strong_a and_o experiment_a soldier_n 3._o let_v the_o afflict_a remember_v that_o nothing_o be_v give_v nor_o promise_v nor_o do_v unto_o the_o saint_n in_o scripture_n or_o in_o latter_a age_n for_o any_o merit_n or_o worthiness_n in_o they_o but_o altogether_o of_o free_a grace_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o shall_v this_o be_v remember_v as_o this_o doubt_n of_o the_o afflict_a arise_v from_o comparison_n of_o his_o condition_n with_o the_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n in_o other_o do_v presuppone_v the_o contrary_a as_o if_o god_n do_v deal_v with_o his_o child_n according_a to_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o person_n and_o merit_n of_o their_o good_a work_n which_o be_v a_o false_a supposition_n for_o why_o do_v the_o afflict_a cast_v down_o his_o courage_n and_o weaken_v his_o faith_n and_o confidence_n in_o god_n but_o for_o this_o very_a cause_n that_o he_o count_v himself_o a_o much_o more_o unworthy_a man_n and_o of_o less_o merit_n before_o god_n than_o those_o saint_n be_v or_o be_v with_o who_o he_o have_v compare_v himself_o 4._o let_v the_o afflict_a by_o so_o much_o as_o he_o do_v preceive_v himself_o more_o unworthy_a and_o more_o sinful_a than_o those_o saint_n with_o who_o he_o have_v compare_v himself_o thrust_v himself_o the_o more_o into_o the_o bosom_n of_o rich_a grace_n let_v he_o so_o much_o the_o more_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o cover_v his_o nakedness_n therewith_o and_o employ_v christ_n by_o faith_n so_o much_o the_o more_o that_o out_o of_o his_o fullness_n he_o may_v receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n and_o be_v make_v able_a by_o his_o spirit_n to_o bring_v forth_o more_o abundant_a fruit_n and_o come_v up_o near_o unto_o conformity_n with_o christ_n and_o the_o example_n of_o renown_v saint_n 5._o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o we_o must_v live_v by_o rule_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n aim_v sincere_o at_o obedience_n of_o holy_a precept_n albeit_o we_o have_v not_o yet_o come_v up_o unto_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o rule_n in_o that_o measure_n which_o other_o have_v attain_v unto_o chap._n xxvii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o bless_a state_n
walk_n shall_v be_v find_v in_o he_o scrupulosity_n sometime_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o convert_n be_v under_o hard_a exercise_n before_o his_o consolation_n do_v put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n and_o study_v to_o walk_v circumspect_o for_o a_o while_n but_o after_o a_o time_n he_o become_v somewhat_o weary_a of_o the_o yoke_n suspect_v he_o have_v give_v too_o much_o way_n unto_o scrupulosity_n whereupon_o he_o become_v more_o remiss_a and_o slack_a in_o his_o watchfulness_n and_o diligence_n lay_v aside_o the_o armour_n of_o god_n as_o david_n lay_v aside_o the_o armour_n of_o king_n saul_n wherewith_o he_o be_v not_o accustom_v for_o satisfy_v himself_o in_o this_o course_n i_o presuppone_v he_o make_v use_v of_o three_o pretend_a reason_n the_o first_o be_v because_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o man_n to_o attain_v to_o such_o circumspection_n in_o his_o carriage_n as_o become_v he_o for_o it_o be_v no_o less_o than_o to_o aim_v at_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n which_o the_o apostle_n have_v declare_v to_o be_v impossible_a because_o of_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o flesh_n rom._n 8._o 3._o the_o next_o pretend_v reason_n be_v because_o this_o bend_n of_o a_o man_n spirit_n make_v the_o conscience_n unquiet_a that_o a_o man_n can_v enjoy_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n grant_v in_o the_o gospel_n the_o three_o pretend_a reason_n be_v because_o it_o do_v restrain_v christian_n liberty_n in_o many_o thing_n lawful_a so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v neither_o make_v use_n of_o recreation_n of_o body_n or_o mind_n without_o scruple_n and_o here_o we_o must_v beware_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n lest_o we_o give_v way_n to_o any_o degree_n of_o misregarding_a the_o law_n which_o be_v the_o error_n of_o the_o antinomian_o and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n lest_o we_o ensnare_v the_o conscience_n of_o convert_n and_o hinder_v they_o in_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o what_o god_n do_v allow_v unto_o they_o 2._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o convert_v know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a walk_n this_o duty_n be_v indispensable_a for_o if_o a_o chink_n be_v open_v here_o in_o the_o vessel_n for_o the_o least_o entry_n of_o water_n it_o may_v ere_o long_o fill_v and_o sink_v the_o whole_a ship_n for_o the_o command_n stand_v unmoveable_a ●h●b_n 12._o 14._o follow_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n and_o holiness_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n and_o 1_o pet._n 1._o 15._o as_o he_o that_o have_v call_v you_o be_v holy_a so_o be_v you_o holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n and_o mat._n 5._o 48._o christ_n have_v say_v be_v you_o perfect_a as_o your_o father_n in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a this_o ground_n be_v lay_v let_v we_o examine_v these_o three_o pretend_a reason_n as_o to_o the_o first_o albeit_o the_o attain_n unto_o the_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n in_o this_o life_n be_v impossible_a because_o of_o the_o infirmity_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n yet_o the_o aim_v at_o the_o perfect_a obedience_n of_o god_n command_n be_v both_o possible_a and_o profitable_a and_o he_o who_o aim_v at_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n in_o this_o life_n shall_v attain_v it_o full_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o give_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o the_o law_n for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o do_v sin_n all_o of_o we_o another_o thing_n to_o endeavour_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n give_v to_o obey_v the_o law_n perfect_o for_o god_n who_o have_v loose_v convert_v flee_v to_o christ_n from_o the_o convenant_n of_o work_n or_o the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n he_o have_v not_o loose_v his_o subject_n from_o obedience_n to_o the_o lawgiver_n he_o have_v not_o abolish_v the_o ten_o command_n he_o have_v not_o loose_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o redeem_v and_o convert_v soul_n but_o by_o receive_v they_o in_o favour_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n he_o do_v augment_v their_o obligation_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n their_o redeemer_n so_o much_o more_o cheerful_o and_o careful_o as_o the_o grace_n be_v large_a in_o forgive_a they_o their_o sin_n and_o translate_n they_o from_o the_o slavery_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ._n again_o albeit_o it_o be_v true_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o attain_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o the_o law_n yet_o there_o be_v great_a advantage_n to_o be_v have_v by_o circumspect_a walk_n and_o aim_v at_o perfect_a obedience_n for_o this_o 1._o do_v glorify_v our_o heavenly_a father_n when_o we_o strive_v to_o be_v conform_v to_o his_o will_n and_o to_o have_v respect_n to_o all_o his_o command_n 2._o this_o endeavour_n adorn_v the_o gospel_n and_o profession_n of_o our_o most_o holy_a faith_n whereby_o we_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o grace_n of_o free_a justification_n that_o we_o may_v become_v the_o servant_n of_o righteousness_n indeed_o 3._o this_o endeavour_n bear_v witness_n of_o our_o since●_n desire_v to_o serve_v god_n with_o all_o our_o heart_n albeit_o we_o attain_v not_o to_o the_o perfection_n of_o obedience_n in_o this_o life_n 4._o this_o endeavour_n give_v unto_o we_o daily_o new_a mater_fw-la of_o humiliation_n when_o in_o our_o aim_v at_o our_o duty_n we_o come_v very_o short_a of_o our_o mark_n we_o shoot_v at_o 5._o this_o endeavour_n and_o short-coming_a for_o all_o we_o can_v do_v make_v we_o despair_v of_o seek_v justification_n by_o work_n before_o god_n and_o to_o esteem_v high_o and_o make_v use_n by_o faith_n of_o christ_n satisfaction_n for_o we_o impute_v to_o we_o for_o righteousness_n which_o be_v a_o garment_n able_a to_o hide_v our_o imperfection_n and_o nakedness_n 6._o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o put_v we_o to_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o christian_n grace_n and_o to_o strive_v with_o other_o and_o with_o ourselves_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 3._o as_o for_o the_o second_o pretend_v reason_n that_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o may_v make_v the_o conscience_n unquiet_a it_o put_v a_o foul_a aspersion_n on_o the_o holy_a precept_n of_o the_o apostle_n ephes._n 5._o 15_o 16_o 17._o who_o have_v declare_v this_o to_o be_v a_o man_n wisdom_n and_o so_o a_o good_a mean_a of_o make_v his_o conscience_n quiet_a and_o to_o establish_v in_o it_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n for_o by_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o believer_n in_o christ_n be_v assure_v that_o they_o be_v without_o the_o reach_n of_o condemnation_n because_o they_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n rom._n 8._o 1._o second_o this_o endeavour_n be_v the_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o accompani_v true_a faith_n and_o in_o a_o manner_n do_v guard_v the_o conscience_n from_o just_a challenge_n which_o may_v trouble_v the_o same_o three_o by_o this_o endeavour_n the_o believer_n be_v by_o a_o holy_a necessity_n force_v to_o cleave_v close_o unto_o christ_n to_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o heaven_n that_o the_o pollution_n of_o daily_a sin_n may_v be_v washen_n away_o by_o new_a application_n of_o christ_n expiarory_n sacrifice_n to_o the_o believer_n and_o that_o christ_n may_v let_v forth_o more_o strength_n to_o he_o to_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o command_v duty_n and_o so_o the_o convert_n may_v stand_v in_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n thus_o the_o peace_n of_o god_n offer_v and_o covenant_v in_o the_o gospel_n be_v preserve_v in_o he_o so_o long_o as_o this_o endeavour_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o be_v entertain_v 4._o as_o for_o the_o three_o pretend_v reason_n against_o circumspect_a walk_n as_o if_o by_o it_o christian-liberty_n shall_v be_v cross_v and_o cut_v short_a it_o be_v a_o false_a pretence_n for_o the_o contrair_n be_v true_a that_o christian-liberty_n be_v not_o hurt_v but_o help_v and_o preserve_v by_o circumspect_a walk_n for_o this_o be_v true_a christian-liberty_n to_o have_v allowance_n of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o benefit_n which_o god_n do_v bestow_v with_o his_o blessing_n so_o far_o as_o may_v serve_v our_o welfare_n see_v it_o be_v not_o a_o point_n of_o christian-liberty_n licentious_o by_o intemperance_n to_o abuse_v god_n benefit_n and_o turn_v they_o to_o our_o own_o hurt_n wherefore_o let_v our_o heart_n be_v all_o day_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v in_o lawful_a manner_n make_v use_n of_o lawful_a thing_n neither_o do_v the_o study_n of_o holiness_n make_v recreation_n of_o body_n and_o mind_n unlawful_a but_o restrain_v immoderate_a and_o untimeous_a use_n of_o thing_n lawful_a all_o that_o christian_a liberty_n grant_v unto_o we_o be_v that_o whether_o we_o eat_v or_o drink_v or_o what_o lawful_a thing_n else_o we_o do_v we_o do_v all_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 10._o 31._o that_o be_v so_o as_o we_o may_v be_v
strive_v against_o all_o impediment_n and_o god_n will_v help_v we_o to_o fight_v will_v give_v the_o victory_n and_o reward_n it_o for_o our_o encouragement_n to_o set_v upon_o our_o duty_n as_o for_o the_o other_o case_n of_o set_v on_o the_o duty_n and_o miss_v of_o furniture_n to_o discharge_v it_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o god_n in_o this_o dispensation_n be_v teach_v we_o that_o both_o the_o discharge_n of_o any_o duty_n and_o the_o success_n thereof_o do_v not_o depend_v upon_o he_o that_o will_v or_o on_o he_o that_o run_v but_o upon_o god_n that_o show_v mercy_n yea_o he_o teach_v we_o by_o experience_n that_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v be_v two_o distinct_a gift_n the_o one_o whereof_o sometime_o he_o will_v give_v and_o not_o the_o other_o and_o sometime_o he_o will_v give_v both_o that_o we_o may_v learn_v not_o to_o limit_v the_o lord_n in_o any_o case_n but_o real_o acknowledge_v that_o every_o good_a gift_n it_o from_o he_o that_o we_o may_v aim_v at_o our_o duty_n and_o depend_v on_o he_o for_o the_o blessing_n the_o fourteen_o question_n be_v how_o to_o solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o another_o like_a comparison_n of_o his_o disposition_n and_o god_n dispensation_n some_o convert_n out_o of_o their_o own_o experience_n may_v say_v i_o be_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n of_o heart_n have_v sundry_a time_n diligent_o use_v all_o mean_n to_o be_v comfort_v and_o have_v wonder_v within_o myself_o that_o my_o pain_n have_v produce_v no_o hoped-for_a effect_n but_o the_o heart_n have_v lyen_fw-we dead_a like_o the_o child_n of_o the_o shunamit_n when_o gehasi_n lay_v the_o staff_n of_o elisha_n upon_o he_o at_o another_o time_n i_o have_v be_v surprise_v unexpected_o with_o enlargement_n of_o heart_n with_o liberty_n of_o speech_n in_o prayer_n with_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_z the_o no_o small_a confirmation_n of_o my_o faith_n and_o what_o to_o think_v of_o this_o divers_a dispensation_n i_o can_v tell_v 2._o for_o answer_v the_o doubt_n may_v be_v satisfy_v by_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n and_o wisdom_n towards_o his_o child_n in_o the_o first_o case_n he_o give_v grace_n to_o use_v the_o mean_n and_o suspend_v the_o sensible_a fruit_n thereof_o to_o teach_v we_o 1._o that_o he_o have_v indeed_o tie_v we_o to_o the_o use_n of_o all_o appoint_v meatis_fw-la but_o leave_v himself_o free_a to_o give_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o what_o time_n and_o in_o what_o measure_n he_o please_v 2._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o whatsoever_o benefit_n he_o do_v bestow_v upon_o we_o in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n he_o do_v bestow_v they_o not_o for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n but_o by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n 3._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o there_o be_v no_o inherent_a virtue_n nor_o effectual_a power_n in_o the_o mean_n but_o that_o the_o mean_n be_v the_o way_n wherein_o we_o must_v walk_v that_o we_o may_v find_v the_o blessing_n from_o god_n in_o use_v the_o mean_n and_o not_o put_v confidence_n in_o they_o 4._o he_o teach_v we_o whatsoever_o mean_v or_o instrument_n be_v make_v use_n of_o we_o shall_v with_o paul_n plant_v and_o apollo_n water_v give_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o increase_n fruit_n and_o success_n unto_o god_n alone_o 3._o as_o to_o the_o other_o case_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v prevent_v his_o child_n use_v of_o mean_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n ere_o he_o call_v thereby_o he_o teach_v we_o the_o same_o lesson_n to_o wit_n that_o what_o blessing_n god_n do_v give_v he_o do_v it_o free_o of_o grace_n and_o not_o for_o work_n 2._o he_o teach_v we_o that_o what_o blessing_n we_o expect_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n he_o will_v give_v it_o not_o when_o we_o will_v nor_o in_o what_o measure_n we_o will_v but_o as_o he_o see_v it_o fit_a for_o our_o good_a and_o his_o own_o glory_n that_o so_o we_o shall_v neither_o be_v frustrate_a of_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o mean_n use_v nor_o yet_o conceive_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o as_o a_o deserve_a reward_n of_o work_n but_o as_o a_o gift_n of_o mere_a grace_n the_o fifteen_o question_n shall_v be_v about_o the_o measure_n of_o mortification_n or_o sanctification_n whether_o it_o be_v grow_v or_o decay_v ofttime_n true_a convert_v fall_v in_o this_o doubt_n not_o indeed_o when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o sensible_a and_o comfortable_a condition_n for_o than_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o be_v grow_v in_o holiness_n neither_o fall_v they_o in_o this_o doubt_n when_o their_o condition_n be_v sensible_o evil_a as_o when_o the_o power_n of_o inborn_a sin_n either_o break_v forth_o in_o action_n external_o or_o defile_v their_o spirit_n at_o least_o for_o than_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o be_v decay_v but_o this_o doubt_n arise_v when_o they_o be_v go_v on_o in_o their_o ordinary_a way_n of_o a_o blameless_a conversation_n without_o any_o observable_a change_n of_o their_o spiritual_a condition_n to_o the_o better_a or_o to_o the_o worse_o then_o be_v it_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o in_o a_o dubious_a condition_n and_o can_v say_v whether_o mortification_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n or_o sanctification_n be_v on_o the_o grow_a hand_n or_o not_o 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o doubt_n about_o the_o measure_n of_o holiness_n 1._o it_o be_v not_o safe_a curious_o to_o inquire_v what_o measure_n of_o holiness_n a_o man_n have_v attain_v for_o as_o it_o be_v not_o good_a to_o eat_v much_o honey_n so_o for_o man_n to_o search_v out_o their_o own_o glory_n it_o be_v not_o glory_n prov._n 25._o 27._o second_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o determine_v the_o question_n for_o god_n use_v to_o hide_v from_o his_o child_n especial_o the_o young_a sort_n these_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n which_o may_v in_o any_o sort_n weaken_v their_o endeavour_n in_o piety_n or_o soft_a pride_n in_o they_o but_o he_o discover_v unto_o they_o their_o sinfulness_n and_o the_o imperfection_n of_o their_o obedience_n that_o he_o may_v set_v forward_o their_o repentance_n and_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n righteousness_n three_o there_o be_v such_o a_o instability_n of_o any_o good_a condition_n wherein_o any_o convert_n may_v be_v so_o great_a variety_n of_o tentation_n such_o a_o vicissitude_n of_o victory_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n in_o their_o daily_a conflict_n that_o hardly_o can_v any_o man_n satisfy_v himself_o in_o the_o solution_n of_o this_o question_n for_o he_o who_o think_v himself_o dead_a to_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o to_o riches_n and_o honour_n may_v short_o find_v himself_o overtake_v in_o the_o net_n and_o fall_v soul_o in_o the_o mire_n and_o be_v find_v carnal_a therefore_o let_v he_o that_o stand_v take_v heed_n lest_o he_o fall_v let_v he_o watch_v and_o pray_v lest_o he_o be_v overcome_v in_o tentation_n let_v he_o study_v to_o observe_v the_o wickedness_n of_o nature_n and_o imperfection_n of_o his_o best_a work_n that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n may_v be_v in_o great_a estimation_n in_o our_o eye_n and_o we_o may_v grow_v in_o faith_n and_o love_n towards_o god_n draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n and_o furniture_n to_o every_o good_a work_n this_o be_v the_o way_n to_o grow_v in_o holiness_n indeed_o and_o not_o to_o be_v proud_a for_o any_o thing_n in_o we_o or_o do_v by_o we_o and_o this_o be_v the_o way_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n do_v constant_o walk_v phil._n 3._o 14_o 15._o 16._o the_o sixteen_o question_n be_v what_o the_o convert_n shall_v think_v or_o do_v in_o hard_a affliction_n when_o the_o convert_n do_v fall_v in_o longsome_a bodily_a disease_n and_o sad_a affliction_n by_o unexpected_a and_o long-lasting_a adversity_n when_o satan_n be_v permit_v to_o vex_v he_o with_o sore_a tentation_n when_o god_n do_v hide_v his_o face_n for_o a_o long_a time_n from_o he_o when_o he_o expose_v he_o unto_o the_o cruel_a persecution_n of_o worldly_a man_n he_o can_v choose_v but_o fall_v in_o many_o doubt_n and_o perplexity_n for_o when_o god_n do_v immediate_o afflict_v he_o he_o ready_o suspect_v that_o god_n be_v angry_a at_o he_o if_o he_o louse_v reins_n unto_o satan_n to_o sift_v he_o and_o vex_v he_o if_o he_o answer_v not_o his_o supplication_n comfort_v he_o not_o ready_o what_o wonder_v multitude_n of_o thought_n arise_v in_o his_o heart_n the_o question_n be_v in_o this_o case_n what_o shall_v the_o convert_v think_v or_o do_v 2._o for_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a the_o lord_n use_v ofttimes_o in_o his_o deep_a wisdom_n and_o unchangeable_a love_n to_o his_o child_n to_o exercise_v they_o as_o be_v say_v and_o satan_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o whisper_v in_o their_o ear_n that_o god_n do_v not_o love_v they_o in_o which_o case_n if_o the_o convert_n do_v not_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o faith_n
god_n and_o man_n concern_v the_o way_n of_o justification_n for_o by_o nature_n we_o can_v admit_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n fly_v to_o his_o satisfaction_n of_o justice_n for_o we_o and_o righteousness_n impute_v to_o we_o thereby_o for_o by_o nature_n with_o misbelieve_a israel_n we_o acknowledge_v no_o justification_n save_v of_o or_o for_o work_n albeit_o it_o be_v impossible_a rome_n 10._o 3._o and_o as_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n righteousness_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n have_v not_o submit_v themselves_o unto_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n so_o we_o even_o after_o conversion_n and_o after_o embrace_v of_o justification_n by_o faith_n in_o our_o conversion_n do_v give_v ofttimes_o evidence_n of_o our_o natural_a inclination_n to_o seek_v after_o the_o righteousness_n of_o work_n for_o after_o examination_n of_o ourselves_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o our_o confidence_n do_v flow_v and_o ebb_n as_o we_o be_v please_v or_o displease_v with_o our_o own_o carriage_n and_o when_o we_o have_v most_o need_v to_o make_v use_n of_o the_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n we_o forget_v it_o or_o slight_v it_o do_v not_o fly_v to_o it_o do_v not_o adhere_v to_o it_o do_v not_o comfort_v and_o strengthen_v ourselves_o in_o conflict_n by_o it_o as_o have_v ofttimes_o be_v observe_v by_o we_o what_o then_o will_v we_o do_v if_o our_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v our_o own_o righteousness_n do_v prosper_v or_o if_o the_o power_n of_o in_o bear_a sin_n do_v not_o set_v up_o itself_o against_o we_o and_o force_v we_o by_o the_o law_n either_o to_o despair_v or_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o this_o our_o natural_a inclination_n even_o after_o conversion_n to_o return_v and_o seek_v after_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n may_v be_v see_v in_o the_o galatian_n who_o have_v begin_v in_o the_o spiritual_a way_n of_o justification_n by_o faith_n seek_v to_o be_v perfect_v by_o the_o fleshly_a way_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n and_o do_v fall_v in_o danger_n of_o fall_v from_o grace_n and_o exclude_v themselves_o from_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o promise_n through_o christ._n wherefore_o our_o infinite_o wise_a physician_n jesus_n christ_n take_v course_n as_o we_o have_v say_v for_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o our_o good_a not_o to_o repair_v at_o once_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o we_o not_o to_o heal_v our_o sinful_a disease_n all_o at_o once_o but_o piece_n and_o piece_n by_o degree_n that_o his_o righteousness_n bestow_v on_o those_o that_o fly_v unto_o he_o for_o refuge_n may_v be_v in_o high_a and_o high_a estimation_n daily_o that_o the_o fountain_n open_v up_o in_o he_o for_o remove_v of_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n may_v daily_o be_v make_v use_n of_o and_o the_o benefit_n of_o justification_n may_v daily_o be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o new_a gift_n that_o virtue_n may_v daily_o be_v suck_v out_o of_o he_o for_o bear_v of_o good_a fruit_n and_o out_o of_o his_o fullness_n we_o may_v receive_v daily_a grace_n for_o grace_n and_o may_v render_v thanks_o unto_o our_o god_n daily_o and_o bless_v he_o for_o his_o grace_n give_v unto_o we_o as_o do_v the_o prophet_n ps._n 103._o 1_o 3._o bless_v the_o lord_n o_o my_o soul_n who_o forgive_v all_o thy_o iniquity_n who_o heal_v all_o thy_o infirmity_n and_o grow_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o so_o many_o sin_n as_o escape_v we_o daily_o as_o do_v the_o woman_n luk._n 7._o 47._o who_o love_v much_o because_o many_o sin_n be_v forgive_v she_o and_o grow_v in_o holiness_n without_o put_v confidence_n in_o our_o work_n as_o the_o psalmist_n do_v ps._n 71._o 15._o 16._o my_o mouth_n shall_v show_v forth_o thy_o righteousness_n i_o will_v go_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n and_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n even_o of_o thy_o only_a and_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o his_o example_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o 12_o 13_o 14._o wherefore_o let_v the_o doubt_a convert_n make_v use_n of_o these_o consideration_n and_o long_o for_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n who_o shall_v abolish_v sin_n and_o misery_n altogether_o to_o who_o with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n be_v glory_n for_o ever_o amen_n a_o table_n of_o the_o title_n of_o the_o several_a chapter_n book_n i._n chap._n page_n 1._o of_o conscience_n in_o general_n 1_o 2._o of_o case_n of_o conscience_n in_o general_n 7_o 3._o of_o regeneration_n what_o it_o be_v and_o the_o regenerate_a man_n who_o he_o be_v 10_o 4._o of_o divine_a covenant_n about_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o man_n and_o in_o special_a of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n show_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o covenant_n and_o what_o be_v the_o article_n thereof_o 22_o 5._o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n 71_o 6._o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n 86_o 7._o for_o a_o further_a clear_n and_o confirmation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n about_o the_o three_o covenant_n from_o jer._n 31._o and_o heb._n 8._o 133_o 8._o of_o the_o prudent_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n in_o general_n 148_o 9_o of_o the_o more_o special_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n for_o remove_v the_o impediment_n of_o regeneration_n 162_o 10._o concern_v they_o that_o be_v like_a to_o despair_v 182_o 11._o concern_v they_o that_o absolve_v themselves_o without_o warrant_n 190_o book_n ii_o 1._o of_o consideration_n to_o be_v premise_v 215_o 2._o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o feel_a unworthiness_n be_v answer_v 241_o 3._o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n arise_v from_o the_o multitude_n and_o weight_n of_o his_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n and_o against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o conscience_n be_v answer_v 245_o 4._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n raise_v by_o his_o suspicion_n whether_o he_o be_v elect_v or_o not_o 250_o 5._o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_a of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o find_v no_o power_n in_o himself_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v answer_v 253_o 6._o wherein_o the_o doubt_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n concern_v his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o apprehend_a defect_n of_o humiliation_n and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n be_v answer_v 257_o 7._o wherein_o the_o christian_n doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v not_o his_o righteousness_n exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n be_v answer_v 263_o 8._o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o unquietness_n of_o spirit_n be_v answer_v 274_o 9_o wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_v arise_v from_o his_o uncertainty_n at_o what_o time_n he_o be_v convert_v be_v solve_v 292_o 10._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_v doubt_n of_o his_o regeneration_n arise_v from_o his_o apprehension_n that_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o change_n of_o his_o life_n be_v not_o from_o the_o sincere_a love_n of_o god_n but_o either_o from_o terror_n or_o self-love_n which_o he_o conceive_v to_o be_v but_o carnal_a 294_o 11._o wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_n of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o heavy_a affliction_n and_o grievous_a tentation_n be_v solve_v 298_o 12._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_v doubt_n of_o his_o conversion_n arise_v from_o the_o power_n of_o his_o corruption_n manifest_v itself_o more_o after_o his_o entry_n upon_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n than_o it_o do_v before_o he_o begin_v to_o repent_v 304_o 13._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o compare_v of_o himself_o with_o the_o hypocrite_n and_o unregenerat_a in_o those_o perfection_n they_o may_v attain_v unto_o 311_o 14._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n because_o some_o godly_a person_n look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o hypocrite_n 313_o 15._o wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_v of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n so_o oft_o as_o he_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n be_v examine_v and_o answer_v 316_o 16._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o true_a convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o not_o to_o grow_v in_o grace_n by_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v for_o his_o growth_n 320_o 17._o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o seem_v to_o himself_o to_o follow_v religion_n and_o righteousness_n from_o the_o common_a operation_n of_o god_n work_v by_o moral_a suasion_n
therapeutica_fw-la sacra_fw-la show_v brief_o the_o method_n of_o heal_v the_o disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n write_a first_o in_o latin_a by_o david_n dickson_n professor_n of_o divinity_n in_o the_o college_n of_o edinburgh_n and_o thereafter_o translate_v by_o he_o matth._n 9_o 12._o they_o that_o be_v whole_a need_v not_o a_o physician_n but_o they_o that_o be_v sick_a edinburgh_n print_v by_o evan_n tyler_n printer_n to_o the_o king_n be_v most_o excellent_a majesty_n 1664._o to_o the_o right_n honourable_a and_o very_a noble_a the_o countess_n dowager_n of_o glencairn_n madam_n after_o the_o author_n have_v write_v and_o publish_v this_o treatise_n in_o latin_a for_o the_o use_n of_o young_a student_n in_o theology_n by_o the_o earnest_n and_o frequent_a entreaty_n of_o friend_n he_o be_v induce_v and_o persuade_v to_o translate_v it_o into_o our_o vulgar_a tongue_n for_o the_o benefit_n of_o these_o who_o understand_v not_o the_o latin_a and_o for_o prevent_v the_o labour_n of_o other_o who_o more_o forward_o then_o skilful_a be_v about_o the_o do_n of_o it_o and_o have_v once_o so_o far_o proceed_v as_o to_o offer_v it_o to_o the_o press_n without_o acquaint_v he_o therewith_o when_o he_o have_v finish_v the_o translation_n his_o purpose_n be_v to_o have_v dedicate_v it_o to_o your_o ladyship_n and_o to_o have_v send_v it_o abroad_o into_o the_o world_n under_o your_o protection_n but_o weakness_n and_o sickness_n the_o ordinary_a companion_n of_o age_n and_o after_o they_o death_n whereby_o god_n almighty_a and_o gracious_a call_v he_o from_o his_o labour_n to_o enter_v into_o his_o master_n joy_n seize_v upon_o he_o before_o he_o can_v write_v a_o epistle_n dedicatory_a it_o be_v his_o will_n that_o your_o honourable_a name_n shall_v be_v prefix_v unto_o it_o in_o pursuance_n whereof_o it_o come_v now_o as_o a_o orphan_n to_o kiss_v your_o noble_a hand_n fraught_v with_o hope_n of_o favour_n and_o shelter_v for_o the_o parent_n be_v sake_n and_o of_o acceptance_n as_o a_o testimony_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o respect_n he_o carry_v to_o your_o ladyship_n virtue_n it_o have_v the_o strong_a plea_n for_o a_o tender_a reception_n that_o it_o be_v the_o child_n of_o his_o age_n be_v his_o last_o labour_n and_o be_v bring_v forth_o in_o his_o seventy_o and_o second_o year_n and_o that_o it_o come_v array_v in_o a_o suit_n of_o country-cloath_n which_o himself_o put_v upon_o it_o be_v publish_v according_a to_o the_o copy_n write_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n that_o it_o may_v be_v as_o it_o be_v design_v by_o he_o useful_a for_o the_o good_a of_o soul_n and_o that_o god_n may_v comfort_v you_o under_o your_o present_a sad_a affliction_n and_o make_v up_o the_o loss_n of_o your_o noble_a husband_n the_o late_a lord_n high_a chancellor_n of_o scotland_n be_v the_o prayer_n of_o madam_n your_o ladyship_n most_o humble_o devote_a servant_n alexander_n dickson_n edinburg●_n 13._o june_n 1664._o therapeutica_fw-la sacra_fw-la translate_v by_o the_o author_n show_v short_o the_o method_n of_o heal_v the_o disease_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n chap._n i._n of_o conscience_n in_o general_n see_v our_o purpose_n be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o cure_n of_o sundry_a ordinary_a case_n or_o disease_n concern_v regeneration_n by_o a_o prudent_a application_n and_o use-making_a of_o divine_a covenant_n make_v about_o and_o with_o man_n for_o his_o come_n to_o eternal_a life_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o speak_v in_o the_o entry_n a_o little_a first_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o use_v thereof_o in_o general_a next_o of_o the_o case_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o general_a three_o what_o regeneration_n be_v and_o who_o be_v the_o man_n regenerate_v four_a of_o divine_a covenant_n relate_v to_o everlasting_a happiness_n and_o five_o of_o the_o orderly_a and_o prudent_a application_n of_o these_o covenant_n in_o general_n that_o thereafter_o we_o may_v descend_v to_o speak_v of_o application_n thereof_o in_o particular_a case_n the_o more_o clear_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o first_o what_o conscience_n be_v it_o have_v please_v god_n the_o sovereign_a lord_n and_o judge_n of_o all_o man_n in_o the_o creation_n to_o put_v in_o man_n soul_n a_o natural_a power_n or_o faculty_n whereby_o he_o may_v not_o only_o understand_v the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n the_o only_a lord_n of_o and_o lawgiver_n to_o the_o conscience_n not_o only_o concern_v what_o he_o shall_v believe_v and_o perform_v but_o also_o may_v judge_v of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o obedience_n whether_o perform_v or_o not_o perform_v yea_o and_o may_v judge_v also_o of_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o other_o in_o so_o far_o as_o evidence_n may_v be_v have_v of_o their_o conformity_n unto_o or_o disagreement_n from_o the_o revealed_z rule_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n this_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n whether_o it_o be_v consider_v only_o in_o its_o natural_a aptitude_n and_o fitness_n to_o judge_v though_o not_o as_o yet_o or_o for_o the_o time_n actual_o judge_v or_o whether_o it_o be_v look_v upon_o as_o it_o be_v put_v forth_o itself_o in_o exercise_n we_o call_v it_o by_o the_o name_n of_o conscience_n 3._o the_o word_n conscience_n be_v divers_a way_n take_v for_o sometime_o by_o it_o be_v mean_v the_o natural_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o judge_v both_o of_o our_o own_o and_o other_o conformity_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o in_o this_o large_a acception_n we_o say_v every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n that_o be_v every_o man_n whether_o male_a or_o female_a whether_o old_a or_o young_a whether_o sleep_v or_o wake_v have_v a_o faculty_n which_o may_v and_o sometime_o shall_v judge_v of_o their_o own_o and_o other_o behaviour_n towards_o god_n sometime_o it_o be_v take_v for_o that_o natural_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n put_v forth_o itself_o actual_o in_o exercise_n by_o judge_v of_o other_o so_o do_v the_o apostle_n take_v it_o 2_o cor._n 5_o 11._o i_o trust_v say_v he_o we_o be_v make_v manifest_a in_o your_o conscience_n but_o here_o in_o this_o treatise_n we_o take_v conscience_n more_o strict_o as_o it_o examine_v and_o judge_v of_o ourselves_o for_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v most_o proper_o call_v conscience_n or_o joint_a knowledge_n partly_o because_o it_o suppose_v that_o god_n and_o we_o know_v our_o obedience_n or_o disobedience_n to_o the_o rule_n prescribe_v to_o we_o by_o he_o partly_o because_o conscience_n import_v first_o our_o knowledge_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o next_o our_o knowledge_n of_o our_o behaviour_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o our_o compare_v of_o these_o two_o together_o and_o pass_v of_o sentence_n of_o ourselves_o answerable_o 4._o conscience_n as_o it_o do_v respect_v ourselves_o be_v no_o other_o thing_n in_o effect_n than_o the_o understand_a power_n of_o our_o soul_n examine_v how_o matter_n do_v stand_v betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o compare_v his_o will_n reveal_v with_o our_o state_n condition_n and_o carriage_n in_o thought_n word_n or_o deed_n do_v or_o omit_v and_o pass_a judgement_n thereupon_o as_o the_o case_n require_v so_o that_o in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v god_n depute_v in_o we_o as_o it_o be_v these_o five_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v 1._o the_o duty_n of_o self-examination_n 2._o the_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o examine_v 3._o the_o rule_n whereby_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v 4._o the_o process_n of_o the_o conscience_n unto_o sentence_n give_v and_o 5._o the_o execution_n of_o the_o sentence_n so_o far_o as_o the_o conscience_n may_v 5._o as_o to_o the_o first_o the_o duty_n of_o examination_n of_o ourselves_o and_o ju●ging_v ourselves_o it_o be_v require_v of_o we_o lest_o we_o be_v judge_v of_o god_n and_o chastise_v with_o sharp_a rod_n 1_o cor._n 11._o 31._o 32._o and_o hereunto_o we_o be_v exhort_v ps._n 4._o 4_o commune_fw-la with_o your_o own_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n and_o be_v still_o 6._o as_o for_o the_o second_o the_o thing_n which_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v concern_v ourselves_o it_o be_v one_o of_o three_o or_o all_o the_o three_o in_o their_o order_n to_o wit_n either_o our_o estate_n whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n under_o wrath_n or_o not_o or_o whether_o we_o be_v regenerate_v and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n through_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n or_o not_o of_o this_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 13._o 5._o examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o it_o be_v our_o condition_n whether_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n our_o present_a disposition_n or_o inclination_n of_o heart_n and_o affection_n be_v such_o as_o become_v a_o man_n reconcile_v or_o not_o to_o this_o point_n of_o examination_n christ_n do_v call_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n rev._n 2._o 5._o remember_v therefore_o
the_o whole_a glory_n of_o his_o free_a grace_n because_o out_o of_o his_o own_o goodwill_n not_o for_o any_o thing_n at_o all_o foresee_v in_o man_n he_o let_v forth_o his_o special_a love_n on_o the_o redeem_v in_o a_o time_n acceptable_a and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o almighty_a power_n because_o by_o his_o omnipotent_a and_o invincible_a work_n he_o make_v the_o man_n dead_a in_o sin_n to_o live_v open_v his_o eye_n to_o take_v up_o saving_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n take_v away_o the_o heart_n of_o stone_n and_o make_v he_o a_o new_a creature_n to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v his_o holy_a will_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o wisdom_n who_o deal_v so_o with_o his_o creature_n as_o he_o do_v not_o destroy_v but_o perfect_a the_o natural_a power_n of_o the_o man_n will_n make_v the_o man_n regenerate_v most_o free_o deliberate_o and_o hearty_o to_o embrace_v christ_n and_o to_o consecrat_v himself_o to_o god_n service_n the_o reason_n why_o we_o urge_v this_o be_v because_o satan_n by_o corrupt_v the_o doctrine_n of_o regeneration_n and_o persuade_v man_n that_o they_o be_v able_a of_o themselves_o by_o the_o common_a and_o the_o natural_a strength_n of_o their_o own_o freewill_n without_o the_o special_a and_o effectual_a grace_n of_o god_n both_o to_o convert_v themselves_o and_o other_o also_o do_v foster_v the_o native_a pride_n of_o man_n hinder_v they_o from_o empty_v and_o humble_v themselves_o before_o god_n keep_v they_o from_o self-denial_n do_v mar_v the_o regeneration_n of_o they_o that_o be_v delude_v with_o this_o error_n and_o obscure_v what_o he_o can_v the_o shine_a of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n grace_n power_n and_o wisdom_n in_o the_o conversion_n of_o man_n for_o whatsoever_o praise_n proud_a man_n let_v go_v towards_o god_n for_o make_v man_n conversion_n possible_a yet_o they_o give_v the_o whole_a glory_n of_o actual_a conversion_n to_o the_o man_n himself_o which_o christ_n ascribe_v to_o god_n only_o and_o leave_v no_o more_o for_o man_n to_o glory_n in_o his_o spiritual_a regeneration_n than_o he_o have_v to_o glory_n in_o his_o own_o natural_a generation_n joh._n 3._o 5._o 6._o 7._o 8._o and_o the_o same_o do_v the_o apostle_n teach_v ephes._n 2._o 8._o 9_o 10._o and_o philip._n ●_o 13._o it_o be_v god_n say_v he_o which_o work_v in_o you_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o own_o good_a pleasure_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o christ_n disciple_n but_o chief_o their_o duty_n who_o be_v consecrat_v to_o god_n to_o preach_v up_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n omnipotent_a power_n and_o unsearchable_a wisdom_n to_o live_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o emptiness_n and_o to_o depend_v upon_o the_o furnitour_n of_o grace_n for_o grace_n out_o of_o christ_n fullness_n and_o zealous_o to_o oppose_v the_o proud_a error_n of_o man_n natural_a ability_n for_o convert_v himself_o as_o they_o love_v to_o see_v and_o find_v the_o effectual_a blessing_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o themselves_o accept_v for_o true_a disciple_n at_o the_o day_n of_o their_o meeting_n with_o christ_n the_o judge_n at_o his_o second_o come_v 3._o for_o open_v up_o of_o regeneration_n these_o five_o proposition_n must_v be_v hol●en_o the_o first_o be_v this_o the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v foolishness_n unto_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o know_v they_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2._o 14._o the_o second_o be_v this_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o convince_v man_n of_o sin_n of_o true_a righteousness_n and_o of_o judgement_n joh._n 16._o 9_o 10._o 11._o the_o three_o be_v this_o in_o regeneration_n conversion_n and_o quicken_n of_o a_o sinner_n god_n by_o his_o invincible_a power_n creat_v and_o infuse_v a_o new_a life_n and_o principle_n thereof_o psal._n 110._o 3._o thy_o people_n shall_v be_v willing_a in_o the_o day_n of_o thy_o power_n and_o joh._n 5._o 21._o and_o 6._o 63._o the_o four_o be_v this_o the_o invincible_a grace_n of_o god_n work_v regeneration_n and_o a_o man_n conversion_n do_v not_o destroy_v the_o freedom_n of_o man_n will_n but_o make_v it_o true_o free_a and_o perfect_v it_o jer._n 31._o 31._o i_o will_v make_v a_o covenant_n with_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o with_o the_o house_n of_o judah_n and_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n etc._n etc._n the_o five_o be_v this_o albeit_o a_o man_n in_o the_o act_n of_o god_n quicken_a and_o convert_v of_o he_o be_v passive_a and_o in_o a_o spiritual_a sen●e_n dead_a in_o sin_n and_o trespass_n yet_o for_o exercise_v external_a mean_n whereof_o god_n make_v use_v unto_o his_o conversion_n for_o fit_v he_o and_o prepare_v of_o he_o for_o a_o gracious_a change_n such_o as_o be_v hear_v of_o the_o word_n read_v of_o it_o meditate_v on_o it_o inquire_v after_o the_o meaning_n of_o it_o etc._n etc._n the_o natural_a man_n have_v a_o natural_a power_n thereunto_o as_o to_o other_o external_a action_n which_o suffice_v to_o take_v away_o excuse_v from_o they_o who_o have_v occasion_n of_o use_v the_o mean_n and_o will_v not_o use_v they_o matth._n 23._o 37._o for_o clear_v of_o the_o first_o proposition_n we_o must_v remember_v that_o the_o object_n of_o actual_a regeneration_n conversion_n and_o effectual_a call_n be_v the_o man_n elect_v or_o redeem_v by_o christ_n lie_v in_o the_o state_n of_o defection_n from_o god_n destitute_a of_o original_a righteousness_n at_o enimity_n with_o god_n bent_o incline_v to_o all_o evil_a altogether_o unfit_a and_o impotent_a yea_o even_o spiritual_o dead_a to_o every_o spiritual_a good_a and_o special_o to_o convert_v regenerate_v or_o quicken_v himself_o for_o albeit_o after_o the_o fall_n of_o adam_n there_o be_v some_o spark_n of_o common_a reason_n remain_v whereby_o he_o may_v confuse_o know_v that_o which_o be_v call_v spiritual_a good_a acceptable_a and_o pleasant_a unto_o god_n and_o fit_a to_o save_v his_o soul_n yet_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o unrenewed_a man_n judge_v of_o that_o good_a and_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evangell_n wherein_o that_o good_a be_v propon_v to_o be_v mere_a foolishness_n and_o do_v represent_v the_o spiritual_a object_n and_o set_v it_o before_o the_o will_n as_o a_o thing_n uncertain_a or_o vain_a and_o the_o will_n of_o the_o unrenewed_a man_n after_o deliberation_n &_o comparison_n make_v of_o object_n some_o honest_a some_o pleasant_a and_o some_o profitable_a in_o appearance_n natural_o be_v incline_v to_o prefer_v and_o choose_v any_o seem_a pleasant_a or_o profitable_a thing_n whether_o the_o object_n be_v natural_a or_o civil_a rather_o than_o that_o which_o be_v true_o honest_a and_o moral_o good_a but_o if_o it_o fall_v out_o that_o a_o spiritual_a good_a be_v well_o and_o in_o fair_a colour_n describe_v unto_o the_o unrenewed_a man_n yet_o he_o see_v it_o not_o but_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o natural_a good_a and_o as_o it_o be_v clothe_v with_o the_o image_n of_o some_o natural_a good_a and_o profitable_a for_o preserve_v its_o stand_n in_o a_o natural_a be_v and_o welfare_n therein_o so_o do_v the_o false_a prophet_n balaam_n look_v upon_o the_o felicity_n of_o the_o righteous_a in_o their_o death_n when_o he_o do_v separat_fw-la eternal_a life_n from_o faith_n and_o sanctification_n and_o do_v rend_v asunder_o the_o mean_n from_o the_o end_n appoint_v of_o god_n say_v let_v i_o die_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o let_v my_o last_o end_n be_v like_o he_o numb_a 23._o 10._o after_o this_o manner_n the_o woman_n of_o samaria_n apprehend_v the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o save_a grace_n offer_v to_o she_o by_o christ_n lord_n say_v she_o give_v i_o of_o that_o water_n that_o i_o may_v not_o thirst_v again_o and_o may_v not_o come_v again_o to_o draw_v water_n joh._n 4._o 15._o so_o also_o do_v the_o misbelieve_v jew_n judge_v of_o the_o application_n of_o christ_n incarnation_n and_o suffering_n for_o their_o spiritual_a feed_n joh._n 6._o 33._o 34._o 35._o for_o the_o natural_a man_n can_v know_v the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v and_o the_o natural_a man_n be_v destitute_a of_o the_o spirit_n of_o illumination_n 1_o cor._n 2._o 14._o and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v enimity_n to_o god_n for_o it_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n yea_o it_o can_v be_v subject_a unto_o it_o rom._n 8._o 7._o the_o power_n therefore_o of_o the_o natural_a or_o unrenewed_a man_n be_v not_o fit_v for_o the_o discern_a and_o love_v of_o a_o spiritual_a good_a because_o he_o be_v altogether_o natural_a and_o not_o spiritual_a for_o a_o supernatural_a
object_n require_v a_o supernatural_a power_n of_o the_o understanding_n and_o will_n to_o take_v it_o up_o and_o right_o conceive_v of_o it_o but_o of_o this_o supernatural_a faculty_n the_o unrenewed_a man_n be_v destitute_a and_o in_o respect_n of_o spiritual_a discern_a he_o be_v dead_a that_o he_o can_v discern_v spiritual_a thing_n spiritual_o 4._o as_o for_o the_o second_o proposition_n anent_o a_o man_n regeneration_n the_o lord_n that_o he_o may_v break_v the_o carnal_a confidence_n of_o the_o person_n who_o he_o be_v to_o convert_v first_o sheweth_z him_z his_o duty_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n make_v he_o to_o see_v the_o same_o by_o the_o powerful_a illumination_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o so_o take_v away_o all_o pretext_n of_o ignorance_n second_o he_o show_v he_o his_o guiltiness_n and_o deserve_a damnation_n wherein_o he_o be_v involve_v and_o so_o take_v away_o all_o conceit_n and_o imagination_n of_o his_o innocency_n three_o he_o do_v convince_v he_o of_o his_o utter_a inability_n to_o satisfy_v the_o law_n or_o to_o deliver_v himself_o from_o the_o curse_n thereof_o either_o by_o way_n of_o action_n and_o obedience_n or_o by_o way_n of_o suffering_n and_o pay_v of_o the_o penalty_n of_o the_o violat_a law_n of_o god_n and_o so_o overturn_v all_o confidence_n in_o himself_o or_o in_o his_o own_o work_n whence_o follow_v the_o elect_a man_n desperation_n to_o be_v deliver_v by_o himself_o because_o he_o see_v himself_o a_o sinner_n and_o that_o all_o hope_n of_o justification_n by_o his_o own_o deed_n or_o suffering_n be_v cut_v off_o now_o that_o this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v plain_a joh._n 16._o 8._o when_o the_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n shall_v come_v he_o shall_v convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o this_o condition_n sundry_a of_o god_n dear_a child_n for_o a_o time_n be_v keep_v under_o the_o bond_n of_o the_o law_n under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n and_o sad_a conviction_n 5._o as_o for_o the_o three_o proposition_n the_o lord_n after_o he_o have_v lay_v the_o sin_n of_o his_o elect_a child_n who_o be_v to_o be_v convert_v to_o his_o charge_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n first_o open_v up_o a_o light_n unto_o he_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o let_v he_o see_v that_o his_o absolution_n from_o sin_n and_o his_o salvation_n be_v possible_a and_o may_v be_v have_v by_o fly_v unto_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n second_o the_o lord_n draw_v near_o hand_n the_o humble_a self-condemned_n soul_n deal_v with_o he_o by_o way_n of_o moral_a suasion_n sweet_o invite_v he_o in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o receive_v the_o redeemer_n christ_n jesus_n the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n that_o by_o receive_v of_o he_o as_o he_o be_v offer_v in_o the_o evangel_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n renovation_n of_o life_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n he_o may_v close_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n three_o because_o the_o fall_n of_o adam_n have_v bereave_v man_n of_o all_o spiritual_a and_o supernatural_a power_n till_o he_o be_v supernatural_o quicken_v and_o convert_v by_o the_o omnipotent_a power_n of_o god_n grace_n therefore_o the_o lord_n s●peraddeth_v unto_o moral_a suasion_n effectual_a operation_n and_o form_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o spiritual_a faculty_n and_o ability_n for_o do_v what_o be_v pleasant_a unto_o god_n and_o tend_v to_o save_v himself_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n this_o infusion_n of_o a_o new_a life_n sometime_o be_v call_v the_o form_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n sometime_o regeneration_n sometime_o rise_v from_o the_o dead_a and_o vivification_n or_o quicken_a of_o the_o man_n sometime_o save_v grace_n and_o the_o life_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o god_n have_v in_o it_o the_o principle_n of_o all_o save_a grace_n and_o habit_n which_o be_v bring_v forth_o afterward_o to_o act_n and_o exercise_n mean_a time_n true_a it_o be_v that_o all_o man_n because_o of_o their_o inborn_a corruption_n have_v a_o inclination_n and_o bend_a disposition_n to_o resist_v the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v actual_o convert_v the_o man_n he_o overcome_v and_o take_v away_o actual_a resistance_n and_o do_v so_o break_v the_o power_n of_o natural_a rebellion_n that_o it_o do_v not_o for_o ever_o after_o reign_v in_o he_o for_o if_o god_n do_v not_o take_v away_o actual_a resistance_n of_o the_o man_n in_o his_o conversion_n no_o conversion_n shall_v certain_o follow_v and_o god_n shall_v be_v disappoint_v of_o his_o purpose_n to_o convert_v the_o man_n even_o when_o he_o have_v put_v forth_o his_o almighty_a power_n to_o work_v conversion_n but_o god_n do_v so_o wise_o and_o powerful_o stir_v up_o this_o new_a infuse_a life_n of_o grace_n and_o set_v it_o so_o on_o work_n that_o the_o understanding_n and_o judgement_n like_o a_o counsellor_n and_o the_o will_n like_o a_o command_a emperor_n and_o the_o active_a power_n of_o the_o new_a infuse_a faculty_n as_o a_o officer_n do_v all_o bestir_v themselves_o to_o bring_v forth_o supernatural_a operation_n whence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o new_a creature_n begin_v to_o look_v kind_o on_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n and_o to_o desire_v to_o be_v unite_v unto_o he_o and_o do_v stretch_v forth_o itself_o to_o embrace_v he_o hearty_o for_o obtain_v in_o he_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n as_o he_o be_v offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o so_o he_o cast_v himself_o over_o on_o christ_n with_o full_a purpose_n never_o to_o shed_v from_o he_o but_o by_o faith_n to_o draw_v out_o of_o he_o grace_n for_o grace_n till_o he_o be_v perfect_v and_o here_o the_o man_n that_o be_v mere_o passive_a in_o his_o quicken_a and_o regeneration_n begin_v present_o to_o be_v active_a in_o his_o conversion_n and_o follow_v conversation_n for_o god_n give_v to_o he_o to_o will_n and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o good_a pleasure_n and_o he_o have_v obtain_v by_o god_n effectual_a operation_n to_o will_n and_o to_o do_v do_v formal_o will_n and_o do_v the_o good_a which_o be_v do_v 6._o as_o to_o the_o four_o proposition_n when_o the_o power_n of_o god_n be_v put_v forth_o invincible_o for_o the_o convert_n of_o a_o soul_n that_o invincible_a work_n be_v so_o far_o from_o destroy_v the_o natural_a liberty_n of_o the_o will_n that_o it_o do_v indeed_o preserve_v it_o and_o set_v it_o right_a on_o the_o right_a object_n and_o do_v perfect_a it_o for_o as_o when_o god_n open_v the_o eye_n of_o a_o man_n understanding_n that_o he_o do_v behold_v the_o wonder_n of_o his_o law_n when_o he_o remove_v the_o natural_a blindness_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o make_v a_o man_n see_v that_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o wisdom_n and_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n which_o sometime_o he_o count_v to_o be_v mere_a foolishness_n he_o do_v no_o way_n destroy_v the_o man_n judgement_n or_o understanding_n but_o do_v correct_v help_v heal_v and_o perfect_v it_o so_o when_o the_o holy_a spirit_n do_v powerful_o and_o effectual_o move_v and_o turn_v the_o will_n of_o the_o man_n to_o embrace_v the_o sweet_a and_o save_a offer_n of_o christ_n grace_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o make_v he_o deliberate_o choose_v this_o bless_a way_n of_o salvation_n and_o to_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o or_o any_o other_o worth_a or_o work_n he_o do_v not_o destroy_v but_o perfect_a the_o liberty_n of_o the_o will_n and_o raise_v it_o up_o from_o death_n and_o its_o damnable_a inclination_n and_o make_v it_o most_o joyful_o and_o most_o free_o to_o make_v choice_n of_o this_o pearl_n of_o price_n and_o bless_v itself_o in_o its_o choice_n for_o ever_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n complain_v of_o wrong_n do_v to_o man_n freewill_n when_o god_n stop_v its_o way_n to_o hell_n wise_o powerful_o gracious_o and_o sweet_o move_v it_o to_o choose_v the_o way_n of_o life_n but_o rather_o let_v man_n beware_v to_o take_v the_o glory_n of_o actual_a conversion_n of_o man_n from_o god_n and_o either_o give_v it_o whole_o to_o their_o idol_n of_o freewill_n or_o make_v it_o sharer_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o regeneration_n with_o god_n which_o glory_n god_n will_v not_o give_v to_o another_o but_o reserve_v whole_o to_o himself_o for_o all_o man_n in_o the_o point_n and_o moment_n of_o regeneration_n be_v like_a unto_o lazarus_n in_o the_o grave_n to_o who_o god_n by_o command_v he_o to_o arise_v give_v life_n and_o power_n to_o arise_v out_o of_o the_o grave_n where_o he_o lay_v dead_a and_o rot_a 7._o as_o to_o the_o five_o proposition_n we_o must_v distinguish_v the_o work_n of_o regeneration_n from_o the_o preparation_n and_o disposition_n of_o the_o man_n to_o be_v regenerate_v
whereby_o he_o be_v make_v more_o capable_a of_o regeneration_n to_o be_v wrought_v in_o he_o for_o the_o material_a disposition_n of_o he_o fit_v he_o for_o regeneration_n be_v neither_o a_o part_n nor_o a_o degree_n of_o regeneration_n for_o albeit_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o these_o preparatory_a disposition_n yet_o he_o will_v have_v man_n bind_v to_o make_v use_n of_o these_o external_a mean_n which_o may_v prepare_v he_o because_o by_o the_o use_n of_o external_a mean_n such_o as_o be_v hear_v of_o the_o word_n catechise_v and_o conference_n etc._n etc._n a_o man_n may_v be_v bring_v more_o near_o unto_o regeneration_n as_o christ_n do_v teach_v we_o by_o his_o speech_n to_o that_o pharisee_fw-mi who_o be_v instruct_v in_o the_o law_n and_o answer_v discreedy_a unto_o christ_n thou_o be_v not_o far_o say_v he_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n mark_n 12._o 24._o this_o preparatory_a disposition_n in_o order_n unto_o regeneration_n be_v like_a unto_o the_o dry_n of_o timber_n to_o make_v it_o soon_o take_v fire_n when_o it_o be_v casten_z into_o it_o for_o dryness_n in_o the_o timber_n be_v neither_o a_o part_n nor_o a_o degree_n of_o kindle_v or_o inflammation_n of_o it_o but_o only_o a_o preparation_n of_o the_o timber_n to_o receive_v inflammation_n when_o the_o fire_n shall_v be_v set_v to_o it_o or_o it_o put_v in_o the_o fire_n possible_o a_o long_a time_n after_o in_o these_o preparatory_a exercise_n then_o no_o man_n will_v deny_v that_o the_o natural_a man_n unrenewed_a have_v a_o natural_a power_n to_o go_v and_o hear_v a_o sermon_n preach_v to_o read_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v inform_v by_o catechise_v and_o conference_n of_o religion_n and_o regeneration_n whereof_o god_n when_o he_o please_v may_v make_v use_n in_o regeneration_n of_o the_o man_n wherefore_o whosoever_o in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v charge_v and_o command_v to_o repent_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o turn_v unto_o god_n they_o be_v command_v also_o to_o use_v all_o these_o external_a mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v inform_v of_o the_o duty_n require_v and_o of_o the_o mean_n lead_v thereunto_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o which_o external_a mean_n they_o may_v meet_v with_o sundry_a common_a operation_n and_o effect_n of_o god_n spirit_n before_o they_o be_v regenerate_v or_o convert_v whereof_o the_o use_n may_v be_v sound_a not_o only_o in_o but_o also_o after_o conversion_n and_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v refuse_v slight_a or_o neglect_v to_o follow_v these_o preparatory_a exercise_n which_o may_v prepare_v he_o for_o conversion_n he_o be_v inexcusable_a before_o god_n and_o man_n and_o guilty_a of_o reject_v of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n yea_o guilty_a of_o resist_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n of_o which_o sin_n and_o guiltiness_n the_o holy_a martyr_n stephen_n charge_v the_o misbelieve_a jew_n act_n 7._o 51._o 8._o as_o for_o the_o regenerate_a man_n he_o it_o be_v who_o in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o sinfulness_n and_o deserve_a misery_n and_o of_o his_o utter_a inability_n to_o help_v himself_o do_v cast_v away_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o part_n and_o possible_a righteousness_n of_o his_o own_o work_n and_o flee_v to_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o in_o christ_n alone_o he_o may_v have_v true_a wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n and_o do_v with_o full_a purpose_n of_o heart_n consecrat_v himself_o and_o endeavour_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n to_o serve_v god_n acceptable_o all_o the_o day_n of_o his_o life_n for_o the_o ground_n of_o this_o description_n we_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n philip._n 3._o 3_o where_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o true_a people_n of_o god_n and_o the_o counterfeit_n he_o say_v we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n who_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n and_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n in_o which_o description_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n the_o apostle_n first_o point_v forth_o unto_o we_o three_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o regeneration_n than_o three_o duty_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v the_o first_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o only_a circumciser_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v the_o humble_v of_o the_o man_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o cut_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o worth_n wit_n freewill_n and_o strength_n to_o help_v himself_o so_o that_o the_o man_n have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n the_o second_o operation_n be_v the_o infusion_n of_o save_a faith_n make_v the_o man_n humble_v to_o close_v with_o christ_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o to_o rest_v upon_o he_o as_o the_o only_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n so_o that_o christ_n become_v to_o he_o the_o ground_n of_o rejoice_v and_o gloriation_n the_o three_o operation_n be_v the_o upstirring_a and_o enable_v of_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n to_o endeavour_v new_a obedience_n and_o to_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n as_o for_o the_o three_o duty_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v the_o first_o be_v to_o follow_v the_o lead_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o point_n of_o more_o and_o more_o humble_v of_o himself_o before_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o insufficiency_n and_o eshew_v of_o all_o lean_v on_o his_o own_o part_n gift_n work_n or_o suffering_n or_o any_o thing_n else_o beside_o christ_n he_o must_v have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n the_o second_o duty_n be_v to_o grow_v in_o the_o estimation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o fullness_n of_o all_o grace_n to_o be_v let_v forth_o to_o the_o believer_n employ_v he_o by_o faith_n and_o comfort_v himself_o in_o christ_n against_o all_o difficulty_n trouble_n and_o temptation_n he_o must_v rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ._n the_o three_o duty_n be_v to_o endeavour_v communion-keeping_a with_o god_n in_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n in_o all_o case_n worship_v and_o serve_v god_n in_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n he_o must_v be_v a_o worshipper_n of_o god_n as_o to_o the_o last_o thing_n hold_v forth_o in_o the_o apostle_n word_n which_o be_v the_o undoubted_a mark_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o man_n regenerate_v and_o circumcise_v in_o heart_n it_o stand_v in_o the_o constant_a endeavour_n to_o grow_v in_o these_o three_o duty_n joint_o so_o as_o each_o of_o they_o may_v advance_v another_o for_o many_o fail_n and_o short-coming_n will_v be_v find_v in_o our_o new_a obedience_n and_o worship_v of_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n but_o let_v these_o fail_n be_v make_v use_n of_o to_o extinguish_v and_o abolish_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o own_o part_n and_o righteousness_n that_o our_o daily_a fail_n may_v humble_v we_o and_o cut_v we_o off_o from_o all_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n but_o let_v not_o these_o fail_n so_o discourage_v we_o as_o to_o hinder_v we_o to_o put_v confidence_n in_o christ_n but_o by_o the_o contrair_a the_o less_o ground_n of_o confidence_n we_o find_v in_o ourselves_o let_v we_o raise_v so_o much_o high_a the_o estimation_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n and_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o by_o faith_n to_o draw_v more_o strength_n and_o ability_n out_o of_o christ_n for_o enable_v we_o to_o walk_v more_o holy_o and_o righteous_o before_o god_n and_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o comfort_v ourselves_o in_o he_o let_v we_o not_o turn_v his_o grace_n into_o wantonness_n but_o the_o more_o we_o believe_v the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n let_v we_o strive_v in_o his_o strength_n so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o glorify_v god_n in_o new_a obedience_n and_o in_o the_o circle_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n let_v we_o wind_v ourselves_o up_o stair_n towards_o heaven_n for_o god_n have_v promise_v that_o such_o as_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n shall_v renew_v their_o strength_n they_o shall_v mount_v up_o with_o wing_n as_o eagle_n they_o shall_v run_v and_o not_o be_v weary_a they_o shall_v walk_v and_o not_o faint_a isaiah_n 40._o 31._o in_o the_o conjunction_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n the_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n be_v find_v if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o sincere_a endeavour_n after_o all_o these_o three_o duty_n the_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n be_v by_o so_o much_o darken_v and_o short_a for_o probation_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v a_o man_n regenerate_v that_o he_o be_v drive_v from_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o righteousness_n and_o fill_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n because_o a_o man_n that_o have_v no_o more_o than_o that_o may_v perish_v in_o this_o miserable_a condition_n as_o we_o see_v in_o judas_n the_o traitor_n who_o conscience_n be_v burden_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o
great_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o the_o attribute_n of_o god_n do_v shine_v in_o the_o work_n of_o redemption_n 2._o by_o this_o doctrine_n it_o appear_v how_o vain_a and_o wicked_a the_o device_n of_o superstitious_a man_n be_v who_o for_o pacify_v of_o god_n wrath_n have_v appoint_v pennance_n and_o pilgrimage_n and_o self-scourging_n and_o soul-mass_n and_o purgatory_n and_o such_o like_a other_o abomination_n whereof_o the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v not_o speak_v but_o forbid_v all_o the_o invention_n of_o man_n as_o unworthy_a conceit_n to_o bring_v about_o man_n salvation_n which_o invention_n tend_v only_o to_o derogat_n from_o the_o dignity_n of_o the_o price_n of_o christ_n ransom_n and_o to_o cry_v down_o the_o fullness_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o price_n pay_v by_o our_o bless_a redeemer_n jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o set_v up_o other_o saviour_n in_o his_o room_n 3._o hence_o also_o it_o be_v manifest_a how_o fit_a a_o high_a priest_n be_v appoint_v over_o we_o who_o be_v touch_v with_o our_o infirmity_n and_o temptation_n by_o who_o we_o may_v have_v so_o solid_a consolation_n in_o all_o the_o pang_n of_o our_o torment_a conscience_n and_o in_o who_o we_o have_v a_o solid_a foundation_n lay_v down_o to_o all_o that_o flee_v to_o he_o for_o settle_v our_o faith_n and_o hope_n in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o have_v of_o set_a purpose_n with_o the_o father_n consent_n suffer_v so_o many_o and_o great_a evil_n that_o he_o may_v redeem_v we_o 4._o and_o hereby_o we_o may_v perceive_v also_o how_o well_o divine_a justice_n be_v satisfy_v and_o with_o what_o warrant_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o weak_a believer_n may_v be_v quiet_v who_o so_o use_v to_o exaggerate_v the_o grievousnesse_n and_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o sin_n that_o they_o forget_v to_o put_v a_o right_a estimation_n upon_o the_o satisfaction_n make_v by_o christ_n for_o all_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o the_o three_o article_n the_o three_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption●_n pass_v between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n concern_v the_o benefit_n gift_n and_o grace_n to_o be_v give_v unto_o the_o redeem_a all_o which_o gift_n and_o grace_n be_v summary_o comprehend_v in_o that_o one_o gift_n of_o god_n speak_v of_o joh._n 4._o 10._o which_o gift_n be_v christ_n who_o be_v free_o offer_v unto_o and_o give_v to_o the_o elect_a believer_n for_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n according_a to_o what_o be_v say_v isa._n 9_o 6._o for_o unto_o we_o a_o child_n be_v bear_v a_o son_n be_v give_v on_o who_o shoulder_n the_o government_n be_v lay_v who_o name_n be_v call_v jehovab_n the_o wonderful_a counsellor_n the_o strong_a god_n the_o eternal_a father_n and_o prince_n of_o peace_n and_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 3._o who_o according_a to_o his_o divine_a power_n have_v give_v unto_o we_o all_o thing_n which_o pertain_v to_o life_n and_o godliness_n through_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o who_o have_v call_v we_o to_o virtue_n and_o glory_n 2._o the_o benefit_n which_o be_v appoint_v for_o the_o redeem_v be_v so_o convey_v and_o bring_v unto_o they_o that_o first_o they_o be_v christ_n riches_n which_o he_o have_v purchase_v unto_o the_o elect_a and_o be_v resolve_v to_o die_v that_o the_o purchase_n may_v be_v make_v fast_o to_o his_o people_n he_o have_v make_v his_o latter_a will_n and_o testament_n once_o and_o again_o and_o leave_v in_o legacy_n to_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o all_o thing_n which_o belong_v to_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n and_o these_o benefit_n in_o a_o acceptable_a time_n he_o effectual_o apply_v and_o put_v they_o in_o possession_n thereof_o of_o which_o gift_n we_o shall_v name_v chief_a three_o the_o first_o be_v regeneration_n or_o turn_v of_o the_o man_n towards_o himself_o the_o second_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o save_a faith_n the_o three_o be_v perseverance_n in_o which_o three_o gift_n the_o patron_n and_o magnifier_n of_o the_o power_n of_o man_n freewill_n do_v what_o in_o they_o lie_v to_o obscure_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n by_o glory_v that_o without_o the_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n they_o can_v convert_v themselves_o or_o not_o as_o they_o please_v so_o that_o when_o god_n intend_v their_o conversion_n and_o use_v all_o mean_n for_o their_o conversion_n they_o be_v able_a to_o resist_v all_o his_o gracious_a operation_n and_o make_v void_a his_o purpose_n and_o endeavour_v but_o this_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n pass_v between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n mediator_n and_o redeemer_n do_v decide_v the_o question_n and_o give_v they_o the_o lie_n for_o only_o they_o who_o god_n do_v foreknow_v do_v he_o predestinat_a to_o be_v conform_v to_o the_o image_n of_o his_o son_n and_o who_o he_o do_v predestinat_a they_o he_o also_o call_v and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o he_o also_o justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o he_o also_o glorify_v rom._n 8._o 28._o concern_v these_o three_o gift_n it_o be_v agree_v between_o god_n and_o christ_n that_o the_o elect_n shall_v be_v convert_v invincible_o and_o infallible_o and_o that_o save_a faith_n shall_v be_v bestow_v on_o they_o and_o that_o they_o shall_v persevere_v in_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v not_o total_o and_o final_o fall_v away_o from_o god_n grace_n it_o be_v promise_v to_o christ_n psal._n 110._o 3._o that_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o power_n his_o people_n shall_v be_v willing_a for_o albeit_o the_o native_a corruption_n of_o their_o will_n oppose_v itself_o and_o resist_v the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o he_o be_v use_v the_o mean_n to_o convert_v they_o yet_o in_o a_o acceptable_a time_n the_o invincible_a power_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n towards_o they_o so_o take_v away_o all_o actual_a resistance_n that_o the_o man_n unwilling_a of_o himself_o be_v make_v most_o free_o and_o hearty_o willing_a to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n for_o god_n can_v both_o preserve_v the_o natural_a liberty_n of_o the_o will_n and_o take_v from_o it_o that_o crookedness_n and_o frowardness_n that_o be_v in_o it_o he_o can_v infuse_v and_o create_v in_o the_o man_n a_o right_a spirit_n and_o new_a habit_n of_o grace_n and_o can_v bring_v forth_o these_o habit_n unto_o exercise_n make_v the_o redeem_a man_n not_o only_o able_a to_o will_n but_o also_o actual_o to_o will_n and_o to_o do_v what_o be_v pleasant_a to_o he_o philip._n 2._o 13._o and_o ephes._n 2._o 8._o we_o be_v teach_v that_o faith_n be_v not_o of_o ourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n not_o of_o work_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v boast_v and_o this_o gift_n of_o save_a faith_n be_v bestow_v only_o on_o the_o elect_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o faith_n of_o the_o elect_a tit._n 1._o 1._o and_o only_o they_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v ordain_v unto_o eternal_a life_n act_v 13._o 48._o yea_o every_o one_o come_v to_o christ_n who_o be_v give_v to_o he_o of_o the_o father_n joh._n 6._o 37._o and_o no_o man_n come_v to_o christ_n save_v he_o who_o the_o father_n draw_v joh._n 6._o 44._o but_o they_o that_o be_v not_o redeem_v do_v not_o come_v to_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n and_o life_n joh._n 10._o 26._o you_o believe_v not_o say_v christ_n to_o some_o jew_n because_o you_o be_v not_o of_o my_o sheep_n my_o sheep_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o i_o know_v they_o and_o they_o follow_v me._n as_o for_o perseverance_n the_o father_n promise_v to_o the_o son_n that_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v firm_a in_o all_o the_o redeem_a one_o or_o in_o his_o elect_a seed_n isa._n 59_o 21._o as_o for_o i_o say_v the_o lord_n to_o christ_n this_o be_v my_o covenant_n with_o they_o my_o spirit_n that_o be_v upon_o thou_o and_o my_o word_n which_o i_o have_v put_v in_o thy_o mouth_n shall_v not_o depart_v out_o of_o thy_o mouth_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o thy_o seed_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o thy_o seed_n seed_n say_v the_o lord_n from_o henceforth_o and_o for_o ever_o and_o jer._n 32._o 40._o i_o will_v make_v a_o everlasting_a covenant_n with_o they_o that_o i_o will_v not_o turn_v away_o from_o they_o to_o do_v they_o good_a but_o i_o will_v put_v my_o fear_n in_o their_o heart_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o depart_v from_o i_o and_o a_o special_a command_n be_v give_v unto_o christ_n for_o preserve_v all_o unto_o eternal_a life_n who_o come_v unto_o he_o joh._n 6._o 39_o this_o be_v the_o father_n will_n which_o have_v send_v i_o that_o of_o all_o which_o he_o have_v give_v i_o i_o shall_v lose_v nothing_o but_o shall_v raise_v it_o up_o at_o the_o last_o day_n which_o christ_n undertake_v that_o he_o will_v faithful_o perform_v joh._n 10._o 28._o while_n he_o say_v i_o give_v unto_o they_o eternal_a life_n and_o
satisfy_v for_o their_o sin_n by_o the_o external_a sacrifice_n of_o some_o clean_a beast_n offer_v to_o god_n or_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o their_o body_n and_o their_o clothes_n such_o also_o be_v the_o covenant_n which_o now_o adays_o many_o make_v with_o god_n cut_v short_a with_o the_o old_a pharisee_n the_o sense_n of_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o law_n by_o extend_v it_o no_o further_o than_o they_o may_v keep_v the_o same_o that_o so_o they_o may_v make_v their_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n the_o long_o &_o conform_v unto_o their_o own_o clip_a rule_n of_o righteousness_n and_o this_o they_o do_v by_o deny_v themselves_o to_o be_v guilty_a of_o original_a sin_n after_o baptism_n and_o by_o extenuate_v and_o diminish_v many_o fault_n as_o but_o light_n and_o venial_a as_o they_o call_v they_o and_o by_o devise_v satisfaction_n for_o expiate_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o live_n by_o penance_n and_o pilgrimage_n and_o of_o the_o dead_a by_o their_o suffering_n in_o their_o imaginary_a purgatory_n that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v justify_v by_o their_o work_n and_o suffering_n such_o also_o be_v their_o covenant_n who_o seek_v justification_n by_o decease_a saint_n merit_n hope_v they_o may_v so_o have_v absolution_n from_o sin_n and_o obtain_v life_n eternal_a and_o all_o these_o sort_n of_o covenant_n of_o man_n frame_v we_o call_v bastard-covenant_n of_o work_n because_o god_n will_v not_o admit_v any_o other_o covenant_n of_o work_n then_o that_o which_o require_v perfect_a personal_a obedience_n and_o therefore_o so_o many_o as_o seek_v to_o be_v justify_v by_o work_n do_v stand_v under_o the_o obligation_n of_o perfect_a personal_a obedience_n under_o pain_n of_o death_n and_o will_v be_v find_v not_o only_o utter_o unable_a to_o do_v any_o good_a work_n but_o also_o to_o be_v without_o christ_n and_o to_o be_v fall_v from_o grace_n as_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 5._o 3_o 4._o do_v teach_v we_o obj._n see_v god_n do_v abhor_v these_o bastard-covenant_n of_o work_n and_o do_v well_o know_v that_o man_n be_v so_o far_o from_o performance_n of_o the_o due_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n that_o they_o be_v utter_o unable_a before_o they_o be_v reconcile_v through_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o do_v so_o much_o as_o one_o acceptable_a work_n as_o the_o psalmist_n teach_v psal._n 14._o 1_o 2_o 3._o why_o do_v the_o lord_n exact_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o the_o law_n from_o sinner_n why_o do_v he_o press_v so_o instant_o the_o slave_n of_o sin_n to_o perform_v the_o duty_n require_v in_o the_o true_a covenant_n of_o work_n ans._n the_o lord_n just_o do_v abhor_v and_o reject_v these_o bastard-covenant_n because_o they_o evacuat_v and_o make_v void_a both_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o he_o do_v press_v all_o man_n to_o perform_v perfect_a obedience_n to_o all_o the_o command_n whereunto_o they_o be_v natural_o oblige_v to_o the_o end_n that_o proud_a man_n conceity_n of_o their_o own_o natural_a ability_n may_v find_v by_o experience_n that_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o perform_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o may_v acknowledge_v the_o same_o and_o so_o despair_v of_o righteousness_n by_o their_o work_n and_o be_v force_v to_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n through_o he_o that_o they_o may_v be_v fir_v from_o that_o covenant_n and_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n may_v be_v enable_v to_o begin_v new_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n furniture_n for_o christ_n be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n for_o righteousness_n to_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v rom._n 10._o 4_o and_o the_o law_n enter_v that_o man_n may_v by_o the_o law_n see_v and_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o offence_n do_v abound_v and_o then_o may_v perceive_v that_o the_o 〈…〉_z ●●gr●ce_n by_o christ_n do_v superabound_a rom._n 〈…〉_z and_o 1_o tim._n 1._o 5._o the_o end_n of_o the_o command_n be_v 〈…〉_z of_o a_o pur●_n heart_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o faith_n unfamed_a this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o promulgation_n of_o the_o law_n in_o mount_n sinai_n that_o a_o stiff-necked_a people_n trust_v in_o their_o own_o ability_n may_v be_v make_v sensible_a of_o their_o imperfection_n by_o the_o repetition_n of_o the_o law_n and_o to_o this_o also_o god_n superadd_v the_o external_a yoke_n of_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n which_o neither_o they_o nor_o their_o posterity_n be_v able_a to_o bear_v act_n 15._o 10._o that_o the_o people_n perceive_v their_o manifold_a pollution_n and_o guiltiness_n wherein_o they_o be_v daily_o involve_v by_o break_v of_o god_n law_n may_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o burden_n lie_v on_o they_o and_o of_o their_o damnable_a estate_n under_o it_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o lamb_n of_o god_n that_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n as_o he_o be_v represent_v and_o offer_v to_o their_o sight_n in_o the_o sacrifice_n and_o burn_a offering_n of_o this_o end_n of_o press_v the_o law_n upon_o proud_a man_n we_o have_v a_o example_n math._n 19_o 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o in_o the_o conference_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o young_a conceity_n rich_a man_n who_o in_o the_o opinion_n of_o his_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o of_o his_o ability_n be_v hudg_o swell_v as_o if_o he_o have_v already_o for_o time_n bygone_a satisfy_v the_o the_o whole_a law_n and_o that_o he_o be_v able_a and_o ready_a to_o do_v any_o good_a work_n which_o can_v be_v prescribe_v unto_o he_o for_o obtain_v of_o eternal_a life_n who_o proud_a conceit_n that_o christ_n may_v humble_v and_o bring_v down_o he_o crave_v nothing_o but_o that_o he_o will_v keep_v the_o command_n and_o when_o the_o young_a man_n deny_v that_o he_o have_v break_v the_o law_n he_o prove_v he_o guilty_a of_o gross_a and_o vile_a idolatry_n from_o this_o that_o he_o put_v a_o high_a estimation_n on_o his_o riches_n than_o on_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o do_v love_v they_o more_o than_o heaven_n and_o fellowship_n with_o god_n in_o eternal_a life_n in_o all_o this_o let_v it_o be_v consider_v that_o albeit_o man_n confidence_n in_o their_o work_n do_v displease_v god_n yet_o good_a work_n do_v not_o displease_v he_o but_o they_o be_v so_o far_o pleasant_a unto_o he_o that_o there_o be_v no_o moral_a motive_n which_o may_v serve_v to_o stir_v up_o in_o his_o people_n a_o endeavour_n to_o follow_v after_o good_a work_n which_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o make_v use_n of_o partly_o by_o set_v before_o they_o the_o reward_n if_o they_o obey_v partly_o by_o set_v punishment_n before_o thei●_n eye_n if_o they_o obey_v not_o yea_o and_o the_o very_a observation_n of_o external_a moral_a duty_n and_o obedience_n such_o as_o may_v be_v discharge_v by_o the_o unregenerat_a man_n albeit_o god_n in_o relation_n to_o justification_n do_v esteem_v it_o pollute_v and_o vile_a yet_o he_o do_v sometime_o reward_v their_o external_a work_n by_o give_v they_o external_a and_o temporal_a benefit_n for_o their_o encouragement_n for_o even_o ahab'_v temporary_a humiliation_n the_o lord_n so_o far_o accept_v that_o there-upon_a he_o take_v occasion_n to_o delay_v to_o take_v vengeance_n upon_o he_o 1_o king_n 21._o 27_o 28_o 29._o likewise_o the_o lord_n use_v to_o recompense_v the_o civil_a justice_n of_o pagan_n with_o a_o temporal_a reward_n yea_o and_o to_o reward_v the_o outward_a diligence_n of_o every_o man_n in_o every_o lawful_a occupation_n with_o some_o answerable_a outward_a reward_n the_o very_a pharisee_n who_o for_o the_o raise_n to_o themselves_o a_o fame_n and_o high_a estimation_n for_o holiness_n do_v take_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o pain_n in_o prayer_n in_o the_o street_n and_o mercat-place_n and_o other_o exercise_n of_o religion_n want_v not_o a_o answerable_a reward_n verily_a say_v christ_n they_o have_v their_o reward_n matth._n 6._o 2._o and_o this_o course_n the_o lord_n do_v keep_v that_o he_o may_v encertain_a and_o foster_v the_o civil_a society_n of_o man_n among_o themselves_o and_o that_o his_o people_n look_v on_o this_o bounty_n of_o god_n may_v be_v stir_v up_o the_o more_o to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o hope_n of_o a_o merciful_a promise_v better_a reward_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v beside_o what_o they_o may_v have_v in_o this_o life_n chap._n vi_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n the_o three_o and_o last_o covenant_n concern_v man_n eternal_a salvation_n be_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n make_v between_o god_n and_o man_n through_o christ_n the_o mediator_n grace_n sometimes_o simple_o and_o absolute_o take_v be_v oppose_v to_o merit_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n every_o good_a thing_n which_o of_o god_n good_a pleasure_n be_v ordain_v or_o promise_v or_o actual_o bestow_v on_o the_o
creature_n presuppose_v innocent_a be_v call_v grace_n because_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o a_o mere_a creature_n can_v proper_o merit_v any_o good_a thing_n of_o god_n because_o the_o creature_n neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v that_o which_o it_o have_v not_o receive_v rom._n 11._o 35._o who_o have_v first_o give_v to_o he_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v recompense_v to_o he_o again_o sometime_o grace_n be_v take_v for_o every_o gift_n or_o good_a bestow_v by_o god_n upon_o the_o ill_a deserver_n in_o which_o sense_n gist_n common_a to_o elect_v and_o reprobat_fw-la be_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o grace_n rom._n 1._o 5._o ephes._n 4._o 7._o sometime_o grace_n be_v take_v in_o opposition_n to_o the_o pactio●all_a merit_n of_o work_n or_o to_o the_o reward_n due_a by_o debt_n covenant_v as_o rom._n 4._o 4._o to_o he_o that_o work_v the_o reward_n be_v not_o reckon_v of_o grace_n but_o of_o debt_n in_o which_o sense_n that_o which_o be_v give_v for_o work_n be_v not_o give_v of_o grace_n rom._n 11._o 16._o and_o in_o this_o sense_n we_o take_v grace_n as_o it_o be_v oppose_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n for_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n be_v the_o give_v perfect_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n but_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o receive_n of_o christ_n by_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n and_o life_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n which_o covenant_n may_v thus_o be_v describe_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v a_o contract_n between_o god_n and_o man_n procure_v by_o christ_n upon_o these_o term_n that_o whosoever_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o sinfulness_n shall_v receive_v christ_n jesus_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o righteousness_n and_o life_n shall_v have_v he_o and_o all_o the_o benefit_n purchase_v by_o he_o according_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o that_o god_n will_v be_v his_o god_n and_o the_o god_n of_o his_o child_n this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v found_v upon_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n pass_v between_o god_n and_o christ_n wherein_o it_o be_v agree_v that_o all_o the_o elect_v give_v unto_o christ_n shall_v be_v reconcile_v in_o due_a time_n to_o god_n and_o that_o to_o this_o end_n this_o grace_n shall_v be_v preach_v to_o bring_v about_o the_o reconciliation_n and_o therefore_o christ_n be_v call_v the_o mediator_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n heb._n 12._o 22._o of_o infant_n interest_n in_o this_o covenant_n quest._n what_o interest_n have_v infant_n in_o this_o covenant_n ans._n the_o same_o which_o they_o have_v since_o the_o first_o express_v and_o formal_a make_v thereof_o with_o abraham_n to_o who_o god_n promise_v to_o be_v his_o god_n and_o the_o god_n of_o his_o child_n who_o child_n all_o be_v who_o be_v in_o christ_n gal._n 3._o 27_o 28_o 29._o for_o of_o the_o redeem_v some_o come_v to_o age_n who_o god_n have_v call_v by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v induce_v and_o effectual_o move_v to_o embrace_v solemn_o the_o offer_a fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o consecrat_v themselves_o and_o their_o child_n unto_o the_o service_n of_o god_n there_o be_v other_o redeem_v one_o who_o die_v in_o their_o infancy_n before_o they_o come_v to_o the_o use_n of_o reason_n to_o who_o salvation_n god_n have_v express_v respect_n in_o make_v his_o covenant_n with_o their_o parent_n that_o he_o will_v not_o have_v they_o exclude_v from_o the_o blessing_n when_o he_o call_v their_o parent_n to_o he_o but_o in_o the_o common_a offer_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n by_o christ_n he_o make_v the_o promise_n joint_o to_o the_o parent_n and_o the_o child_n for_o in_o one_o sentence_n and_o as_o it_o be_v with_o one_o breath_n he_o say_v i_o will_v be_v thy_o god_n and_o thy_o seed_n after_o thou_o gen._n 15._o 17._o whereof_o the_o apostle_n make_v good_a use_n act_v 2._o 39_o declare_v the_o promise_n to_o be_v make_v to_o the_o jew_n and_o their_o child_n and_o to_o the_o call_v gentile_n and_o their_o child_n and_o upon_o this_o ground_n paul_n and_o silas_n timeous_o do_v offer_v consolation_n to_o the_o jailor_n tremble_v and_o anxious_a what_o way_n he_o shall_v be_v save_v act_v 16._o 31._o saying_n believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v save_v thou_o and_o thy_o house_n as_o for_o the_o manner_n how_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o the_o soul_n of_o infant_n in_o convert_v they_o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o speak_v for_o this_o lie_v among_o the_o secret_n of_o god_n which_o do_v not_o concern_v we_o to_o search_v after_o deut._n 29._o 29._o it_o shall_v be_v sufficient_a to_o we_o that_o god_n in_o covenant_v with_o the_o parent_n promise_v to_o be_v the_o god_n of_o their_o child_n and_o according_a to_o this_o covenant_n the_o lord_n complain_v of_o their_o stay_n and_o offer_v their_o child_n unto_o idol_n call_v they_o his_o own_o son_n and_o daughter_n ezek._n 16._o 20._o and_o upon_o this_o ground_n in_o the_o second_o command_n the_o lord_n promise_v to_o show_v mercy_n to_o the_o thousand_o generation_n of_o believe_a parent_n and_o 1_o cor._n 7._o 14._o the_o apostle_n do_v call_v the_o child_n of_o one_o of_o the_o parent_n believe_v holy_a child_n because_o of_o their_o consecration_n unto_o god_n by_o the_o believe_a confederate_a parent_n and_o in_o regard_n of_o god_n right_a and_o interest_n in_o they_o as_o the_o child_n of_o his_o own_o family_n by_o covenant_n and_o christ_n our_o lord_n upon_o this_o ground_n do_v call_v the_o child_n of_o confederate_a parent_n burgess_n of_o heaven_n of_o such_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n matth._n 19_o 13_o 14._o and_o because_o infant_n be_v dedicat_fw-la to_o christ_n to_o be_v teach_v and_o govern_v by_o he_o in_o his_o own_o way_n and_o order_n they_o be_v call_v disciple_n act_n 15._o 10._o as_o the_o disputer_n for_o the_o circumcision_n of_o christian_n child_n as_o well_o as_o of_o their_o parent_n after_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n do_v make_v it_o manifest_a and_o in_o the_o institution_n of_o baptism_n our_o lord_n give_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o covenant_n unto_o every_o nation_n no_o less_o then_o to_o the_o jew_n that_o by_o covenant_n whole_a nation_n may_v be_v draw_v in_o and_o give_v up_o as_o disciple_n to_o his_o doctrine_n matth._n 28._o 29._o make_v all_o nation_n disciple_n by_o your_o doctrine_n baptise_v they_o etc._n etc._n that_o the_o child_n with_o the_o parent_n may_v be_v partaker_n by_o baptism_n of_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n for_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n no_o less_o than_o the_o child_n of_o israelite_n be_v by_o circumcision_n of_o the_o mean_n to_o draw_v on_o the_o make_n of_o this_o covenant_n of_o these_o mean_v we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o four_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o need_v not_o to_o insist_v more_o about_o they_o then_o to_o name_v they_o the_o first_o mean_v to_o draw_v man_n into_o this_o bless_a covenant_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o it_o be_v the_o external_a revelation_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o teach_v man_n how_o great_a their_o sin_n and_o misery_n be_v and_o how_o they_o may_v be_v reconcile_v and_o deliver_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o how_o they_o may_v testify_v their_o thankfulness_n be_v reconcile_v for_o such_o a_o mercy_n which_o ground_n of_o save_a knowledge_n be_v full_o and_o faithful_o set_v down_o in_o holy_a scripture_n and_o commit_v to_o his_o servant_n in_o the_o ministry_n who_o shall_v in_o preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n inform_v and_o persuade_v man_n to_o repent_v and_o embrace_v the_o grace_n of_o christ_n and_o put_v on_o his_o sweet_a yoke_n of_o obedience_n upon_o they_o the_o second_o mean_n be_v after_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n to_o the_o hearer_n for_o convince_a they_o of_o sin_n in_o they_o and_o righteousness_n in_o christ_n and_o judgement_n to_o follow_v to_o wit_n of_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n and_o of_o condemnation_n of_o such_o as_o believe_v not_o to_o receive_v into_o the_o bond_n of_o this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n all_o that_o appear_v serious_o to_o consecrat_v themselves_o and_o their_o child_n to_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n without_o determine_v whether_o they_o be_v regenerate_v for_o the_o present_a or_o not_o the_o three_o mean_v be_v the_o solemn_a seal_n of_o this_o covenant_n for_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n and_o salvation_n through_o christ_n by_o baptise_v both_o the_o parent_n that_o accept_v the_o covenant_n and_o their_o child_n also_o and_o by_o exhortation_n promise_n and_o commination_n and_o all_o other_o argument_n which_o may_v more_o and_o more_o
convince_v they_o of_o their_o need_n of_o christ_n and_o duty_n of_o follow_v he_o to_o fix_v and_o strengthen_v their_o hearty_a purpose_n to_o cleave_v unto_o the_o lord_n such_o as_o be_v the_o lord_n command_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o love_n one_o another_o 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o and_o his_o threaten_n if_o they_o believe_v not_o joh._n 3._o 18._o and_o 1_o joh._n 5._o 10._o 11._o the_o four_o mean_v be_v the_o gather_n of_o these_o that_o have_v embrace_v this_o covenant_n into_o all_o lawful_a and_o possible_a church-communion_n with_o other_o his_o disciple_n and_o fix_v they_o in_o their_o several_a congregation_n that_o they_o may_v be_v edify_v under_o their_o officer_n appoint_v by_o christ_n in_o his_o testament_n in_o their_o most_o holy_a faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o all_o his_o ordinance_n and_o for_o further_a clear_v the_o way_n of_o god_n bring_v the_o visible_a church_n of_o christ_n into_o this_o covenant_n with_o himself_o let_v it_o be_v consider_v 1._o albeit_o of_o those_o that_o be_v come_v to_o the_o use_n of_o reason_n with_o who_o god_n do_v formal_o and_o solemn_o make_v this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n many_o be_v external_o only_o call_v and_o few_o in_o comparison_n choose_v matth._n 20._o 21._o yet_o it_o be_v not_o the_o will_n of_o god_n otherways_o then_o by_o doctrine_n to_o separat_fw-la the_o elect_a from_o the_o rest_n of_o they_o that_o be_v external_o call_v or_o to_o make_v the_o elect_v name_n know_v to_o the_o world_n for_o the_o church_n know_v not_o but_o god_n only_o know_v who_o be_v his_o 2_o tim._n 2._o 19_o and_o therefore_o he_o have_v ordain_v mean_n common_a to_o the_o elect_a and_o reprobat_fw-la to_o bring_v both_o unto_o the_o external_a embrace_v of_o his_o covenant_n and_o continue_v external_o therein_o and_o he_o do_v bestow_v gift_n both_o to_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o to_o the_o other_o and_o he_o work_v in_o both_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o the_o other_o according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n but_o as_o for_o inward_a and_o effectual_a call_n or_o special_a save_a grace_n which_o do_v accompany_v salvation_n and_o the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n he_o reserve_v to_o the_o elect_a and_o redeem_v only_o to_o who_o in_o a_o time_n acceptable_a he_o reveal_v himself_o and_o seal_v they_o for_o his_o own_o service_n 2._o by_o this_o wise_a and_o holy_a deal_n with_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n whereby_o the_o lord_n so_o make_v good_a the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o bring_v his_o decree_n to_o pass_v as_o none_o shall_v have_v just_a reason_n to_o stumble_v no_o wonder_n that_o many_o be_v compass_v within_o the_o draught-net_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v move_v to_o enter_v into_o this_o holy_a and_o bless_a covenant_n of_o who_o there_o may_v be_v elect_a not_o as_o yet_o convert_v whereup_v on_o by_o god_n appointment_n follow_v a_o solemn_a covenant_v of_o all_o that_o consent_n to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o profess_v their_o faith_n in_o christ_n all_o who_o with_o their_o child_n christ_n translate_v from_o the_o pagan_a world_n into_o his_o visible_a kingdom_n and_o fellowship_n of_o his_o church_n militant_a and_o grant_v unto_o they_o right_o to_o the_o common_a privilege_n of_o citizen_n in_o the_o order_n appoint_v in_o his_o word_n that_o keep_v all_o lawful_a and_o possible_a communion_n with_o the_o catholic_n visible_a church_n of_o christ_n they_o may_v be_v edify_v in_o their_o particular_a congrega●ions_n and_o govern_v with_o other_o by_o ecclesiastical_a discipline_n 3._o together_o with_o these_o external_a mean_n serve_v for_o draw_v on_o the_o covenant_n and_o go_v on_o in_o it_o the_o common_a operation_n of_o god_n do_v concur_v common_a to_o all_o the_o call_v both_o elect_a and_o reprobat_fw-la and_o gift_n common_a to_o both_o be_v bestow_v such_o as_o illumination_n moral_a persuasion_n historycall_a dogmatic_a and_o temporary_a faith_n moral_a change_n of_o affection_n and_o some_o sort_n of_o external_a amendment_n of_o their_o outward_a conversation_n save_v grace_n be_v the_o special_a gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o own_o 4._o of_o this_o manner_n of_o covenant_v and_o take_v into_o church-fellowship_n all_o the_o call_v that_o consent_n in_o a_o moral_a way_n to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n regenerate_v and_o unregenerat_a we_o have_v a_o pattern_n in_o the_o lord_n covenant_v with_o all_o israel_n exod._n 19_o the_o covenant_n be_v offer_v to_o all_o the_o israelite_n without_o exception_n all_o be_v invite_v to_o enter_v in_o covenant_n without_o exception_n argument_n motive_n and_o moral_a inducement_n be_v make_v use_n of_o from_o their_o experience_n of_o the_o lord_n goodness_n and_o gift_n give_v to_o they_o before_o most_o ample_a promise_n of_o spiritual_a benefit_n be_v make_v unto_o they_o conditional_o to_o be_v bestow_v on_o they_o both_o in_o this_o life_n and_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v vers_n 4._o 5._o 6._o the_o people_n embrace_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n v._o 7._o 8._o the_o people_n be_v sanctify_v and_o prepare_v to_o receive_v the_o holy_a command_n and_o will_v of_o god_n in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o chapter_n then_o in_o the_o 20._o chapter_n and_o in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o book_n the_o duty_n of_o the_o covenanter_n be_v propound_v which_o concern_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a death_n and_o these_o also_o which_o concern_v obtain_v of_o justification_n and_o sanctification_n by_o christ_n and_o which_o concern_v their_o show_v forth_o their_o thankfulness_n all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n the_o same_o covenant_n after_o forty_o year_n be_v repeat_v and_o renew_v by_o moses_n a_o little_a before_o his_o death_n in_o the_o land_n of_o moab_n deut._n 29._o the_o lord_n command_v moses_n to_o renew_v the_o covenant_n with_o all_o the_o people_n vers_fw-la 1._o all_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v gather_v together_o regenerate_v and_o unregenerat_a vers_fw-la 2._o the_o sum_n of_o argument_n and_o motive_n to_o enter_v in_o covenant_n of_o new_a be_v short_o set_v down_o vers_n 3._o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o people_n to_o be_v join_v to_o god_n in_o covenant_n be_v open_o declare_v by_o moses_n to_o be_v unregenerat_a vers_fw-la 4._o after_o that_o argument_n be_v use_v to_o move_v they_o in_o all_o time_n come_v to_o trust_v in_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o obey_v he_o to_z vers_n 9_o the_o covenant_n be_v make_v with_o the_o head_n of_o the_o tribe_n and_o elder_n of_o the_o people_n and_o their_o governor_n and_o with_o all_o the_o man_n of_o israel_n with_o their_o little_a one_o with_o the_o woman_n and_o with_o the_o stranger_n that_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o camp_n vers_fw-la 10._o 11._o the_o covenant_n be_v solemnize_v with_o adjuration_n of_o all_o to_o keep_v the_o condition_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 12._o 13._o the_o covenant_n be_v extend_v with_o adjuration_n to_o the_o posterity_n vers_fw-la 14._o 15._o neither_o be_v there_o any_o exception_n make_v or_o exclusion_n of_o any_o that_o consent_v to_o the_o covenant_n whether_o unregenerat_a israelite_n or_o stranger_n but_o all_o be_v admit_v within_o this_o covenant_n the_o same_o way_n of_o covenant_v do_v john_n baptist_n follow_v admit_v to_o his_o baptism_n the_o seal_n of_o this_o covenant_n all_o those_o that_o come_v from_o jerusalem_n and_o out_o of_o all_o judea_n and_o from_o the_o border_n of_o jordan_n without_o exception_n whosoever_o confess_v their_o sin_n or_o that_o they_o be_v sinner_n and_o profess_v they_o do_v receive_v the_o offer_n of_o grace_n make_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o true_a lamb_n of_o god_n that_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n matth._n 3._o 5_o 6._o and_o so_o far_o be_v john_n from_o wait_v for_o evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n and_o regeneration_n before_o he_o admit_v they_o that_o come_v to_o his_o baptism_n into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o external_a covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n that_o on_o the_o contrair_a he_o make_v public_a profession_n that_o the_o fan_n whereby_o the_o chaff_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o wheat_n and_o the_o hypocrite_n discern_v from_o the_o sincere_a christian_a be_v not_o in_o his_o hand_n or_o in_o any_o other_o man_n or_o man_n hand_n but_o in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n jesus_n himself_o only_o and_o therefore_o which_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v observe_v after_o he_o have_v public_o testify_v his_o suspicion_n of_o the_o hypocrisy_n and_o old_a poysonable_v be_v position_n in_o the_o pharisee_n and_o saddu●es_n that_o come_v to_o his_o baptism_n and_o offer_v to_o receive_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o seal_n thereof_o vers_fw-la 7._o forthwith_o without_o inquire_v into_o their_o regeneration_n and_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n he_o baptize_v they_o among_o the_o
life_n of_o necessity_n must_v acknowledge_v himself_o a_o man_n in_o himself_o unrighteous_a and_o a_o lose_a man_n and_o that_o he_o come_v to_o christ_n to_o be_v justify_v and_o sanctify_a and_o save_v by_o he_o and_o so_o to_o persevere_v in_o this_o course_n unto_o life_n eternal_a of_o the_o term_n whereupon_o this_o covenant_n be_v offer_v and_o press_v in_o scripture_n the_o term_n of_o the_o covenant_n be_v diverse_o propound_v in_o scripture_n exod._n 19_o 5._o the_o lord_n propound_v it_o thus_o if_o you_o will_v obey_v my_o voice_n indeed_o and_o keep_v my_o covenant_n than_o you_o shall_v be_v a_o peculiar_a people_n unto_o i_o etc._n etc._n in_o these_o word_n the_o condition_n require_v of_o those_o that_o be_v already_o enter_v in_o covenant_n be_v most_o eminent_a for_o this_o people_n be_v in_o covenant_n from_o the_o time_n of_o abraham_n covenant_v and_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o sacrament_n before_o their_o come_n forth_o of_o egypt_n and_o therefore_o the_o condition_n previous_a to_o their_o enter_v in_o covenant_n and_o require_v for_o close_v the_o bargain_n be_v not_o so_o much_o insist_v on_o at_o this_o time_n this_o condition_n the_o people_n do_v accept_v and_o give_v answer_n to_o god_n by_o moses_n vers_fw-la 8._o all_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v speak_v we_o will_v do_v another_o form_n and_o expression_n be_v use_v act_v 16._o 31._o paul_n and_o silas_n say_v to_o the_o jailor_n now_o anxious_a how_o to_o be_v save_v believe_v in_o the_o lord_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v save_v thou_o and_o all_o thy_o house_n the_o jailor_n accept_v of_o the_o condition_n and_o he_o be_v baptize_v and_o all_o his_o house_n vers_n 33._o the_o condition_n of_o his_o person_n take_v with_o guiltiness_n and_o grant_v his_o lose_a condition_n be_v speak_v of_o vers_n 37._o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n therefore_o be_v propound_v in_o the_o next_o room_n and_o be_v accept_v where-upon_a baptism_n be_v administer_v unto_o he_o psal._n 27._o 8._o in_o other_o word_n the_o same_o condition_n be_v propound_v the_o lord_n crave_v faith_n seek_v communion_n on_o with_o god_n for_o the_o condition_n seek_v you_o my_o face_n the_o psalmist_n accept_v the_o condition_n and_o answer_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n will_v i_o seek_v isa._n 45._o 22._o christ_n require_v faith_n in_o these_o he_o call_v and_o upon_o that_o condition_n promise_v salvation_n look_v unto_o 〈◊〉_d all_o you_o end_v of_o the_o earth_n and_o be_v you_o save_v the_o answer_n of_o the_o believer_n be_v set_v down_o vers_n 24._o sure_o shall_v one_o say_v in_o the_o lord_n have_v i_o righteousness_n and_o strength_n likewise_o the_o way_n of_o make_v this_o covenant_n be_v set_v forth_o by_o christ_n offer_v himself_o a_o saviour_n on_o the_o one_o part_n and_o the_o believer_n receive_v christ_n on_o the_o other_o part_n joh._n 1._o 11_o 12._o as_o many_o as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n even_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v on_o his_o name_n and_o 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o 20._o upon_o this_o only_a condition_n of_o consent_v to_o reconciliation_n offer_v he_o sum_v up_o most_o short_o and_o clear_o the_o covenant-making_a we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o if_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v you_o in_o christ_n stead_n be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n there_o remain_v no_o more_o for_o make_v of_o the_o covenant_n but_o that_o the_o hearer_n do_v honest_o answer_v thus_o the_o offer_n and_o condition_n please_v i_o well_o i_o consent_v to_o be_v reconcile_v now_o he_o who_o consent_v to_o be_v reconcile_v 1._o grant_v his_o natural_a enimity_n 2._o accept_v christ_n the_o mediator_n redeemer_n reconciler_n offer_v to_o he_o by_o god_n who_o fullness_n be_v in_o christ_n and_o 3._o obliedge_v himself_o to_o entertain_v this_o friendship_n all_o his_o life_n after_o last_o of_o all_o the_o make_n of_o the_o covenant_n be_v sometime_o press_v to_o be_v receive_v and_o follow_v under_o the_o form_n of_o a_o precept_n 1._o joh._n 3._o 23._o this_o be_v his_o command_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o love_v one_o another_o as_o he_o have_v command_v we_o in_o which_o word_n the_o condition_n or_o estate_n of_o the_o person_n who_o be_v call_v to_o believe_v and_o enter_v in_o covenant_n be_v presuppose_v for_o it_o be_v import_v that_o he_o must_v acknowledge_v nor_o only_a that_o he_o be_v a_o miserable_a sinner_n and_o unable_a to_o relieve_v himself_o but_o also_o that_o he_o be_v natural_o averse_a from_o the_o way_n of_o seek_v righteousness_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o have_v need_n that_o the_o sovereign_a power_n of_o god_n draw_v he_o to_o christ._n second_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o make_n of_o covenant_n be_v propound_v which_o be_v to_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ._n in_o the_o three_o room_n the_o con●ition_n require●_n of_o he_o that_o be_v enter_v in_o covenant_n by_o believe_a 〈◊〉_d christ_n be_v that_o we_o love_v one_o another_o as_o he_o have_v command_v we_o this_o offer_a and_o command_v condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n some_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n do_v accept_v and_o engage_v to_o perform_v and_o do_v perform_v sincere_o albeit_o weak_o other_o some_o trust_v in_o their_o own_o strength_n engage_v unto_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n and_o with_o their_o mouth_n profess_v they_o be_v sinner_n and_o do_v believe_v in_o christ_n and_o that_o they_o will_v submit_v themselves_o to_o his_o government_n draw_v near_o to_o he_o with_o their_o lip_n when_o their_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o and_o such_o man_n faith_n change_v not_o their_o old_a disposition_n and_o way_n of_o live_v but_o it_o suffer_v they_o to_o serve_v their_o belly_n or_o mammon_n or_o vain_a glory_n and_o such_o other_o idol_n yet_o because_o the_o church_n be_v not_o judge_n of_o the_o secret_n of_o the_o heart_n they_o must_v receive_v into_o church-fellowship_n all_o who_o confess_v themselves_o to_o be_v sinner_n and_o profess_v they_o do_v accept_v the_o offer_n of_o christ_n grace_n and_o promise_v subjection_n to_o his_o ordinance_n obj._n but_o how_o can_v the_o church_n receive_v man_n in_o church-fellowship_n who_o be_v destitute_a of_o lively_a faith_n ans._n the_o church_n be_v not_o judge_v of_o the_o heart_n or_o of_o the_o secret_n thereof_o because_o it_o can_v see_v faith_n in_o itself_o but_o must_v look_v to_o the_o profession_n of_o faith_n and_o to_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o the_o own_o order_n and_o time_n the_o church_n be_v witness_n to_o their_o engagement_n but_o not_o judge_n of_o their_o sincerity_n 2._o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n do_v not_o exclude_v the_o most_o vile_a sinner_n if_o they_o acknowledge_v their_o sinfulness_n and_o do_v solemn_o consent_v unto_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n because_o according_a to_o this_o covenant_n nothing_o be_v bestow_v on_o the_o covenanter_n of_o merit_n but_o of_o grace_n only_o which_o the_o church_n know_v god_n can_v give_v and_o sometime_o do_v give_v unto_o counterfeit_v confederate_n make_v they_o sincere_a in_o his_o own_o time_n and_o that_o by_o the_o mean_n of_o the_o ordinance_n make_v use_v of_o in_o the_o visible_a church_n 3._o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o be_v a_o confederate_a christian_a in_o the_o letter_n external_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o man_n another_o thing_n to_o be_v a_o covenanter_n in_o the_o spirit_n inward_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o inward_a man_n rom._n 2._o 28._o and_o albeit_o the_o external_a covenant_n do_v not_o bring_v on_o righteousness_n and_o life_n except_o a_o man_n be_v also_o a_o covenanter_n inward_o in_o his_o heart_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o imperfection_n make_v daily_o u●e_v of_o christ_n yet_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o outward_a covenant_v be_v a_o ordinary_a and_o bless_a mean_n unto_o many_o to_o beget_v and_o foster_v faith_n and_o help_v forth_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o 4._o it_o may_v and_o shall_v suffice_v we_o that_o god_n in_o the_o first_o frame_v of_o a_o national_a church_n do_v admit_v and_o command_v moses_n to_o admit_v all_o the_o israelite_n in_o covenant_n of_o who_o very_o few_o be_v convert_v or_o reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o their_o spirit_n and_o this_o be_v not_o hide_v from_o moses_n or_o from_o the_o true_o godly_a in_o the_o camp_n of_o israel_n as_o be_v plain_o show_v to_o we_o deut._n 28._o 29._o where_o god_n bear_v witness_n against_o the_o people_n that_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o according_a to_o their_o profession_n and_o engagement_n and_o moses_n speak_v out_o this_o truth_n in_o all_o the_o people_n audience_n while_o he_o be_v renew_v the_o covenant_n with_o they_o notwithstanding_o they_o be_v unregenerat_a deut._n 29._o obj._n but_o some_o will_v insist_v
cast_v out_o and_o be_v break_v off_o the_o true_a olive_n tree_n so_o also_o the_o obligation_n of_o the_o baptize_v who_o turn_v the_o true_a covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o another_o of_o their_o own_o frame_n do_v still_o stand_v tie_v they_o to_o perform_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o true_a covenant_n and_o their_o right_n to_o the_o external_a privilege_n of_o the_o confederate_a do_v remain_v still_o in_o some_o sort_n even_o when_o they_o be_v inter-dyted_n from_o the_o honourable_a possession_n thereof_o by_o excommunication_n for_o the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o that_o the_o excommunicate_a remain_n as_o to_o their_o ecclesiastic_a state_n albeit_o not_o as_o to_o their_o present_a ecclesiastic_a condition_n citizens_z and_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o subject_a to_o jurisdiction_n ecclesiastic_a and_o to_o christ_n discipline_n because_o when_o they_o be_v judge_v and_o be_v under_o censure_n they_o be_v say_v to_o be_v within_o the_o kirk_n and_o not_o without_o it_o 1_o cor._n 5._o 12._o what_o have_v i_o to_o do_v to_o judge_v also_o they_o that_o be_v without_o do_v not_o you_o judge_v they_o that_o be_v within_o and_o these_o that_o be_v deliver_v unto_o satan_n as_o to_o their_o present_a external_a condition_n remain_v notwithstanding_o as_o to_o their_o external_a state_n the_o domestics_n of_o god_n under_o the_o discipline_n of_o god_n house_n and_o be_v press_v by_o the_o censure_n lay_v on_o they_o to_o learn_v to_o cease_v from_o their_o sinful_a course_n and_o special_o from_o these_o fault_n for_o which_o they_o be_v censure_v and_o correct_v by_o their_o excommunication_n 1_o tim._n 1._o 20._o hymeneus_n and_o alexander_n be_v give_v over_o to_o satan_n that_o they_o may_v learn_v not_o to_o blaspheme_v that_o be_v that_o be_v humble_v and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n they_o may_v return_v to_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o to_o a_o reverend_a speak_n of_o holy_a thing_n and_o so_o the_o right_a to_o be_v count_v brethren_n and_o member_n of_o the_o church_n albeit_o under_o censure_n restraint_n and_o disrespect_n till_o they_o repent_v be_v not_o take_v altogether_o from_o they_o even_o under_o excommunication_n nor_o yet_o be_v the_o private_a duty_n of_o charity_n due_a to_o brethren_n in_o that_o fearful_a condition_n to_o be_v altogether_o deny_v unto_o they_o even_o when_o the_o possession_n of_o the_o former_a honour_n of_o blameless_a brethren_n be_v take_v from_o they_o for_o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v they_o albeit_o excommunicate_a to_o be_v esteem_v still_o censure_v brethren_n and_o not_o look_v upon_o as_o enemy_n ●_o thess._n 3._o 14_o 15._o if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n to_o wi●_n by_o put_v the_o censure_n of_o excommunication_n on_o he_o and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v ashamed_a yet_o count_v he_o not_o as_o a_o enemy_n but_o admonish_v he_o as_o a_o brother_n and_o this_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o careful_o to_o be_v observe_v that_o the_o constitution_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n of_o such_o and_o such_o member_n and_o the_o use_n of_o excommunication_n may_v be_v the_o better_o understand_v lest_o the_o excommunicate_a be_v over-burdened_n by_o the_o sharpness_n of_o the_o censure_n shall_v seem_v to_o themselves_o altogether_o exclude_v from_o church-society_n and_o so_o despair_v of_o return_v to_o the_o full_a possession_n of_o their_o privilege_n but_o may_v know_v that_o the_o right_n of_o citizen_n of_o the_o city_n of_o god_n be_v reserve_v unto_o they_o and_o be_v to_o be_v restore_v by_o way_n of_o possession_n after_o their_o repentance_n and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o christian_a charity_n of_o the_o brethren_n no_o not_o when_o they_o be_v lie_v under_o the_o sentence_n that_o they_o may_v so_o much_o the_o soon_o return_v to_o repentance_n and_o to_o the_o possession_n of_o their_o ecclesiastic_a honour_n obj._n but_o here_o there_o arise_v a_o great_a doubt_n and_o objection_n how_o and_o upon_o what_o reason_n god_n do_v require_v the_o condition_n of_o faith_n which_o man_n can_v perform_v except_o it_o be_v give_v of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v ephes._n 2._o 8._o you_o be_v save_v of_o grace_n by_o faith_n and_o that_o not_o of_o yourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n ans._n the_o equity_n of_o the_o duty_n require_v do_v not_o depend_v upon_o man_n present_a power_n or_o strength_n of_o who_o the_o condition_n be_v require_v but_o upon_o this_o ground_n that_o ability_n be_v give_v to_o adam_n and_o to_o his_o posterity_n in_o he_o for_o all_o enjoin_v service_n and_o so_o the_o duty_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v found_v upon_o man_n natural_a obligation_n to_o obey_v the_o moral_a law_n for_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o first_o command_n adam_n be_v bind_v and_o we_o in_o he_o not_o only_o to_o believe_v the_o word_n of_o god_n already_o reveal_v unto_o he_o but_o to_o believe_v also_o every_o word_n of_o god_n to_o be_v reveal_v and_o he_o be_v bind_v to_o give_v unto_o god_n the_o glory_n of_o all_o his_o attribute_n not_o only_o of_o these_o which_o already_o do_v show_v forth_o themselves_o in_o his_o work_n but_o also_o of_o these_o attribute_n which_o as_o yet_o do_v not_o put_v forth_o themselves_o in_o actual_a exercise_n for_o as_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v that_o man_n be_v bind_v to_o give_v god_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o avenge_a justice_n upon_o his_o threaten_a to_o inflict_v the_o punishment_n of_o death_n in_o case_n man_n shall_v sin_v albeit_o he_o can_v not_o see_v the_o execution_n of_o it_o before_o he_o fall_v so_o also_o it_o be_v manifest_a he_o be_v bind_v to_o give_v god_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o mercy_n albeit_o no_o object_n of_o show_v mercy_n be_v yet_o to_o be_v find_v and_o that_o partly_o because_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o give_v the_o glory_n of_o all_o perfection_n unto_o god_n whereof_o mercy_n be_v one_o and_o partly_o upon_o the_o experience_n he_o have_v of_o god_n manifest_v goodness_n in_o his_o creation_n and_o god_n make_v a_o covenant_n with_o he_o about_o eternal_a life_n upon_o so_o easy_a and_o equitable_a term_n upon_o the_o same_o ground_n even_o after_o the_o fall_n adam_n be_v bind_v not_o to_o despair_v nor_o fly_v nor_o hide_v himself_o from_o god_n from_o who_o it_o be_v impossible_a he_o can_v escape_v it_o can_v then_o be_v reasonable_o deny_v but_o man_n by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v bind_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o god_n when_o he_o speak_v and_o bind_v to_o trust_v in_o god_n when_o he_o offer_v himself_o as_o a_o friend_n and_o a_o father_n to_o he_o and_o when_o god_n bid_v he_o seek_v his_o face_n he_o be_v bind_v to_o obey_v he_o and_o seek_v his_o face_n and_o to_o follow_v after_o more_o and_o more_o near_a communion_n with_o he_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o that_o adam_n in_o his_o integrity_n can_v not_o formal_o and_o actual_o believe_v in_o god_n as_o a_o redeemer_n partly_o because_o this_o mystery_n be_v not_o yet_o reveal_v partly_o because_o he_o not_o have_v yet_o sin_v have_v not_o need_v of_o a_o redeemer_n or_o of_o remission_n of_o sin_n but_o yet_o the_o power_n and_o ability_n of_o believe_v in_o god_n according_a as_o god_n shall_v let_v forth_o his_o will_n and_o the_o power_n to_o adhere_v unto_o god_n and_o rest_n on_o his_o goodness_n and_o goodwill_n be_v give_v to_o man_n in_o his_o creation_n for_o this_o perfection_n be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o image_n of_o god_n wherein_o man_n be_v create_v even_o as_o the_o habit_n of_o show_v mercy_n on_o the_o miserable_a though_o such_o a_o object_n be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v while_o man_n continue_v in_o the_o state_n of_o innocency_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o original_a holiness_n in_o he_o and_o if_o this_o ground_n hold_v not_o sinner_n by_o their_o sin_v once_o shall_v make_v themselves_o free_a to_o sin_n for_o ever_o after_o and_o exempt_v themselves_o from_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n upon_o this_o pretence_n that_o they_o be_v unable_a to_o give_v obedience_n to_o it_o which_o be_v most_o unreasonable_a and_o 2._o because_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n esteem_v themselves_o able_a to_o perform_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n offer_v and_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n yea_o and_o to_o give_v credit_n or_o not_o to_o what_o be_v preach_v unto_o they_o as_o they_o see_v reason_n be_v it_o not_o equitable_a then_o to_o put_v all_o man_n to_o it_o who_o judge_v themselves_o able_a to_o perform_v what_o be_v require_v to_o the_o end_n that_o after_o experience_n and_o trial_n take_v of_o themselves_o they_o shall_v either_o acknowledge_v their_o natural_a inability_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o so_o go_v
every_o one_o that_o thirst_v come_v to_o these_o water_n etc._n etc._n isa._n 55._o and_o beside_o these_o promise_n which_o contain_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n make_v to_o they_o who_o embrace_v the_o condition_n and_o do_v already_o believe_v such_o as_o be_v they_o that_o believe_v in_o i_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o shall_v inherit_v eternal_a life_n there_o be_v also_o promise_v conditional_a serve_v to_o make_v man_n who_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v real_a and_o steadfast_a in_o the_o covenant_n wherein_o they_o be_v at_o least_o outward_o and_o solemn_o enter_v such_o as_o joh._n 15._o 7_o 10._o if_o you_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o my_o word_n abide_v in_o you_o you_o shall_v ask_v what_o you_o will_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v do_v unto_o you_o and_o if_o you_o keep_v my_o command_n you_o shall_v abide_v in_o my_o love_n etc._n etc._n and_o joh._n 12._o 26._o if_o any_o man_n serve_v i_o he_o will_v my_o father_n honour_n and_o joh._n 14._o 21._o he_o that_o love_v i_o shall_v be_v love_v of_o my_o father_n and_o i_o will_v love_v he_o and_o manifest_v myself_o unto_o he_o obj._n see_v it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v not_o the_o do_v of_o one_o or_o more_o work_n but_o faith_n receive_v christ_n offer_v without_o respect_n to_o our_o work_n as_o any_o part_n of_o the_o condition_n and_o see_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n be_v not_o the_o have_v or_o exercise_v of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n but_o the_o receive_n of_o christ_n through_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n by_o the_o man_n who_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v make_v to_o they_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o and_o do_v exercise_n such_o virtue_n ans._n albeit_o the_o endeavour_n to_o work_v good_a work_n or_o the_o exercise_n of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n prescribe_v by_o christ_n can_v be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n for_o then_o no_o man_n can_v close_v covenant_n with_o christ_n till_o first_o he_o shall_v find_v these_o virtue_n in_o himself_o and_o have_v give_v proof_n of_o his_o constant_a exercise_n thereof_o yet_o such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v make_v use_n of_o after_o a_o man_n have_v close_v covenant_n with_o christ_n by_o faith_n as_o condition_n require_v in_o a_o true_a believer_n to_o evidence_n the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o that_o because_o many_o make_v pretence_n of_o their_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o yet_o do_v turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o wantonness_n and_o do_v no_o way_n set_v themselves_o to_o new_a obedience_n unto_o god_n law_n and_o be_v no_o way_n careful_a to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n suitable_a to_o profess_a repentance_n but_o be_v indulgent_a to_o their_o vicious_a and_o fleshly_a lust_n and_o in_o effect_n do_v renounce_v all_o endeavour_n to_o exercise_v good_a work_n in_o stead_n of_o renounce_v a_o carnal_a confidence_n in_o good_a work_n therefore_o god_n do_v put_v the_o endeavour_n to_o exercise_v christian_a virtue_n on_o all_o profess_a believer_n as_o a_o condition_n distinguish_v a_o sincere_a believer_n from_o a_o hypocrite_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v please_v himself_o because_o he_o be_v external_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n while_n it_o may_v be_v as_o yet_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o a_o dead_a faith_n not_o work_v by_o love_n against_o which_o sort_n of_o pretend_a believer_n jame_v chap._n 2._o dispute_v such_o conditional_a promise_n be_v direct_v towards_o they_o that_o be_v outward_o already_o in_o covenant_n and_o do_v serve_v for_o these_o several_a use_n first_o that_o such_o as_o both_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n and_o be_v endeavour_v the_o duty_n require_v in_o such_o conditional_a promise_n may_v acknowledge_v that_o they_o have_v obtain_v of_o the_o lord_n grace_n for_o grace_n grace_v to_o believe_v and_o grace_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n second_o that_o the_o honest_a heart_a may_v be_v encourage_v te_fw-la set_v upon_o these_o duty_n and_o may_v hope_v to_o be_v furnish_v for_o they_o out_o of_o the_o rich_a fountain_n of_o christ_n grace_n john_n 1._o 16._o three_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v such_o as_o believe_v in_o christ_n when_o they_o feel_v the_o in-lake_n of_o any_o such_o command_v duty_n or_o the_o bitter_a root_n of_o any_o vice_n in_o themselves_o to_o humble_v themselves_o in_o the_o sense_n thereof_o a●d_v to_o fly_v more_o earnest_o to_o christ_n the_o redeemer_n that_o first_o they_o may_v be_v cover_v with_o his_o righteousness_n and_o then_o from_o he_o receive_v the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n as_o he_o have_v promise_v joh._n 15._o 5._o if_o you_o abide_v in_o i_o you_o shall_v bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n four_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v believer_n in_o christ_n subject_v themselves_o to_o the_o order_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o give_v grace_n for_o grace_n and_o work_v one_o grace_n before_o another_o in_o his_o own_o order_n as_o the_o foresay_a promise_n do_v import_v five_o they_o serve_v to_o stir_v up_o believer_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o love_n and_o exercise_v of_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n in_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o promise_a reward_n six_o they_o serve_v to_o move_v believer_n to_o join_v one_o virtue_n to_o another_o for_o certify_v themselves_o of_o their_o own_o call_n and_o election_n by_o their_o growth_n therein_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 3_o 4._o 12._o last_o of_o all_o they_o serve_v to_o make_v these_o who_o be_v destitute_a and_o void_a of_o such_o qualification_n and_o be_v careless_a to_o have_v they_o manifest_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o that_o they_o be_v blind_a and_o can_v see_v a_o far_o off_o and_o that_o they_o have_v forget_v that_o they_o be_v in_o baptism_n ecclesiastical_o purge_v form_n their_o old_a sin_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 9_o obj._n how_o can_v this_o offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o solemn_a make_n of_o a_o covenant_n with_o all_o that_o profess_v they_o do_v accept_v of_o the_o offer_n stand_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o election_n of_o some_o and_o reprobation_n of_o other_o or_o with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n redeem_n of_o the_o elect_a only_o and_o not_o of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n ans._n the_o election_n of_o some_o and_o reprobation_n of_o other_o be_v make_v clear_a of_o old_a by_o god_n make_v offer_n of_o grace_n unto_o and_o covenant_v with_o one_o nation_n only_o and_o not_o with_o any_o other_o psa._n 147._o 19_o 20._o he_o show_v his_o word_n unto_o jacob_n his_o statute_n and_o his_o judgement_n unto_o israel_n he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n an●_n as_o for_o his_o judgement_n they_o have_v not_o know_v they_o 2._o and_o the_o offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o covenant_v with_o all_o that_o profess_v to_o accept_v the_o offer_n do_v consist_v with_o the_o election_n of_o some_o only_a as_o well_o now_o as_o of_o old_a when_o god_n make_v a_o covenant_n external_a and_o conditional_a with_o all_o israel_n of_o who_o the_o great_a part_n be_v not_o elect_v to_o life_n and_o of_o who_o it_o be_v say_v albeit_o they_o be_v in_o number_n as_o the_o sand_n of_o the_o sea_n yet_o a_o remnant_n of_o they_o only_o be_v to_o be_v save_v isa._n 10._o 22._o for_o by_o this_o course_n god_n be_v not_o frustrate_v of_o his_o purpose_n and_o fruit_n of_o his_o covenant_v with_o the_o mix_a multitude_n of_o israelit_n for_o the_o elect_a by_o faith_n obtain_v righteousness_n and_o life_n but_o the_o rest_n be_v blind_v rom._n 11._o 7._o 3._o this_o common_a offer_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o make_n of_o a_o moral_a covenant_n with_o all_o that_o do_v profess_v that_o they_o accept_v the_o offer_n may_v stand_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n redeem_v the_o elect_a only_o no_o less_o now_o then_o of_o old_a when_o christ_n do_v make_v offer_n of_o grace_n to_o they_o that_o be_v not_o his_o sheep_n joh._n 10._o 26._o and_o do_v receive_v sundry_a in_o among_o his_o disciple_n in_o external_a covenant_n who_o do_v afterward_o forsake_v he_o joh._n 6._o 66._o but_o yet_o he_o do_v save_v and_o do_v save_o all_o his_o elect_a sheep_n who_o the_o father_n have_v give_v unto_o he_o joh._n 10._o 65._o and_o however_o this_o doctrine_n sound_v harsh_a in_o the_o ear_n of_o many_o when_o they_o hear_v of_o any_o reprobat_fw-la or_o not_o elect_v or_o when_o they_o hear_v that_o christ_n do_v not_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o all_o and_o every_o man_n but_o for_o the_o elect_a only_o and_o proud_a man_n
redemption_n concern_v the_o prudent_a way_n and_o manner_n of_o christ_n single_v forth_o his_o own_o elect_a from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n but_o this_o do_v no_o way_n import_v or_o infer_v a_o universal_a conditional_a redemption_n or_o any_o conditional_a decree_n of_o god_n for_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o a_o conditional_a decree_n of_o god_n and_o a_o decree_n for_o bring_v about_o god_n purpose_n by_o offer_v peace_n unto_o man_n upon_o a_o condition_n a_o conditional_a decree_n presuppose_v that_o god_n be_v not_o resolve_v what_o to_o do_v about_o they_o to_o who_o he_o shall_v make_v offer_n of_o peace_n upon_o condition_n but_o that_o he_o do_v suspend_v the_o determination_n of_o his_o own_o will_n till_o the_o offer_n be_v make_v and_o the_o man_n have_v refuse_v or_o accept_v of_o the_o condition_n propound_v unto_o he_o which_o sort_n of_o decree_n can_v be_v in_o god_n to_o who_o be_v know_v all_o his_o own_o work_n and_o all_o man_n work_n from_o the_o beginning_n act_n 15._o 18._o and_o who_o do_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o determinat_fw-la counsel_n of_o his_o own_o will_n ephes._n 1._o 11._o but_o a_o decree_n to_o offer_v peace_n upon_o condition_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v a_o wise_a mean_a both_o of_o hide_v and_o execute_v his_o own_o secret_a decree_n and_o put_v the_o person_n to_o who_o he_o make_v the_o offer_n unto_o trial_n that_o after_o the_o draw_v forth_o of_o the_o natural_a enimity_n and_o backwardness_n which_o be_v in_o all_o man_n to_o come_v unto_o christ_n till_o they_o be_v draw_v by_o god_n he_o may_v have_v mercy_n on_o who_o he_o will_v and_o take_v the_o refuse_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o other_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o justice_n and_o grace_n according_a as_o he_o have_v determine_v in_o himself_o the_o one_o way_n determine_v man_n as_o god_n will_v the_o other_o way_n determine_v god_n as_o man_n will_v moreover_o such_o a_o conditional_a decree_n concern_v all_o the_o rest_n of_o mankind_n beside_o the_o elect_a be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o way_n of_o god_n dispensation_n towards_o the_o most_o part_n of_o mankind_n for_o it_o be_v not_o god_n purpose_n to_o make_v the_o offer_n of_o grace_n upon_o condition_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n to_o all_o and_o every_o man_n psal._n 147._o 19_o 20._o he_o show_v his_o word_n unto_o jacob_n his_o statute_n and_o his_o judgement_n unto_o israel_n he_o have_v not_o do_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n and_o as_o for_o his_o judgement_n they_o have_v not_o know_v they_o this_o same_o do_v moses_n insinuat_fw-la deut._n 4._o 7_o 8._o and_o for_o his_o dispensation_n experience_n in_o all_o age_n show_v that_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o offer_v to_o all_o and_o every_o one_o and_o so_o they_o can_v be_v say_v to_o refuse_v the_o condition_n who_o never_o have_v the_o offer_n of_o grace_n upon_o condition_n for_o our_o lord_n give_v we_o ground_n so_o to_o reason_n speak_v of_o they_o who_o shall_v refuse_v the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n job._n 15._o 22._o if_o i_o have_v not_o come_v and_o speak_v unto_o they_o they_o have_v not_o have_v sin_n to_o wit_n the_o guiltiness_n of_o reject_v the_o offer_n make_v in_o the_o gospel_n but_o now_o they_o have_v no_o cloak_n for_o their_o sin_n wherein_o also_o he_o give_v a_o reason_n wherefore_o the_o offer_n be_v make_v to_o they_o who_o he_o know_v will_v refuse_v the_o offer_n to_o wit_n that_o they_o may_v be_v render_v inexcusable_a and_o be_v without_o the_o cloak_n or_o pretence_n of_o this_o allegiance_n that_o if_o they_o have_v get_v the_o offer_n than_o will_v they_o have_v believe_v and_o repent_v for_o this_o be_v the_o pride_n of_o adam_n posterity_n they_o conceive_v they_o can_v believe_v and_o obey_v god_n if_o he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o reveal_v his_o will_n to_o they_o and_o this_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n which_o because_o it_o be_v not_o make_v for_o the_o save_n of_o all_o and_o every_o man_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o god_n purpose_n to_o reveal_v his_o gospel_n and_o make_v offer_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o all_o and_o every_o one_o but_o out_o of_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n to_o call_v effectual_o the_o elect_a send_v the_o gospel_n where_o they_o live_v or_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o place_n where_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v that_o the_o predestinat_a may_v be_v of_o purpose_n effectual_o call_v and_o justify_v and_o sanctify_v and_o save_v rom._n 8._o 28_o 30._o and_o because_o the_o elect_a and_o predestinat_a be_v to_o live_v in_o the_o civil_a society_n of_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n it_o be_v agree_v and_o decree_v that_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n shall_v be_v make_v to_o all_o indifferent_o where_o god_n shall_v send_v his_o messenger_n because_o god_n have_v determine_v to_o bring_v about_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o elect_a so_o wise_o and_o holy_o as_o none_o of_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n shall_v be_v stumble_v or_o hinder_v from_o embrace_v the_o offer_v make_v to_o all_o the_o hearer_n indifferent_o without_o let_v any_o man_n know_v of_o his_o election_n till_o he_o have_v receive_v christ_n offer_v to_o he_o and_o other_o self-condemned_n sinner_n or_o declare_v any_o man_n reprobat_fw-la in_o particular_a to_o who_o he_o make_v offer_v of_o grace_n obj._n but_o except_o we_o grant_v a_o universal_a redemption_n and_o the_o universal_a grace_n as_o they_o call_v it_o of_o the_o power_n of_o freewill_n to_o all_o and_o every_o man_n how_o shall_v we_o satisfy_v ourselves_o about_o god_n dispensation_n towards_o they_o who_o live_v without_o the_o church_n stranger_n and_o alien_n from_o the_o commonwealth_n of_o israel_n ans._n as_o for_o the_o elect_a among_o they_o either_o they_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n where_o it_o be_v preach_v or_o the_o gospel_n shall_v be_v send_v unto_o they_o where_o they_o do_v live_v and_o for_o the_o rest_n the_o lord_n deal_v with_o they_o on_o the_o term_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n the_o power_n of_o keep_v whereof_o albeit_o they_o have_v lose_v in_o adam_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o loose_v from_o the_o obligation_n and_o penalty_n of_o violate_v thereof_o and_o even_o they_o have_v not_o lay_v aside_o the_o proud_a opinion_n of_o their_o ability_n to_o follow_v virtue_n and_o ishew_a vice_n as_o they_o please_v and_o the_o course_n which_o god_n follow_v concern_v they_o the_o apostle_n show_v we_o rom._n 2._o 12_o 13_o 14_o 15._o as_o many_o as_o have_v sin_v without_o the_o write_a law_n say_v he_o shall_v perish_v without_o the_o law_n etc._n etc._n for_o when_o the_o gentile_n which_o have_v not_o the_o law_n to_o wit_n the_o write_a law_n give_v to_o the_o church_n do_v by_o nature_n the_o thing_n of_o the_o law_n these_o have_v not_o the_o law_n be_v a_o law_n to_o themselves_o obj._n but_o if_o the_o doctrine_n of_o redemption_n of_o the_o elect_a only_o unto_o life_n be_v maintain_v and_o power_n of_o freewill_n to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n be_v not_o give_v to_o every_o man_n special_o of_o these_o that_o have_v the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o without_o any_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n how_o can_v it_o be_v say_v that_o god_n deal_v just_o in_o earnest_n and_o fair_o with_o miserable_a sinner_n when_o he_o exhort_v request_n and_o obte_v all_o that_o hear_v the_o gospel_n to_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o persevere_v in_o obedience_n of_o the_o faith_n when_o he_o know_v that_o none_o of_o they_o have_v power_n to_o believe_v or_o obey_v and_o that_o to_o many_o of_o they_o he_o have_v no_o purpose_n ever_o to_o give_v grace_n to_o repent_v and_o believe_v that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v ans._n first_o what_o can_v the_o patron_n of_o the_o power_n of_o man_n freewill_a speak_v against_o the_o justice_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n when_o they_o hear_v his_o complaint_n against_o israel_n psal._n 81._o 8_o 9_o 10._o etc._n etc._n hear_v o_o my_o people_n and_o i_o will_v testify_v unto_o thou_o o_o israel_n if_o thou_o will_v hearken_v unto_o i_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o strange_a god_n in_o thou_o neither_o shall_v thou_o worship_v any_o strange_a god_n i_o be_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n which_o bring_v thou_o out_o of_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n open_v thy_o mouth_n wide_a and_o i_o will_v fill_v it_o but_o my_o people_n will_v not_o hearken_v to_o my_o voice_n and_o israel_n will_v none_o of_o i_o so_o i_o give_v they_o up_o to_o their_o own_o heart_n lust_n and_o they_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o counsel_n what_o can_v they_o say_v against_o god_n justice_n and_o fair_a deal_n when_o he_o have_v draw_v forth_o
compare_v the_o word_n of_o jeremiah_n and_o the_o commentary_n thereupon_o by_o the_o apostle_n for_o jeremiah_n say_v that_o they_o do_v transgress_v the_o covenant_n albeit_o god_n do_v show_v himself_o a_o husband_n unto_o these_o un-believing_a father_n that_o be_v they_o change_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n of_o their_o own_o frame_n and_o transgress_v that_o covenant_n also_o and_o the_o apostle_n say_v they_o do_v not_o continue_v in_o that_o covenant_n because_o they_o change_v it_o to_o themselves_o in_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n according_a to_o which_o covenant_n god_n do_v deal_v with_o they_o for_o in_o stead_n of_o be_v a_o husband_n to_o they_o he_o exact_v of_o they_o the_o penalty_n of_o the_o break_a covenant_n of_o work_n and_o lord_v it_o over_o they_o and_o do_v not_o regard_v they_o heb._n 8._o 6._o for_o they_o seek_v after_o the_o righteousness_n of_o work_n and_o not_o to_o have_v righteousness_n by_o faith_n and_o therefore_o do_v he_o despise_v they_o and_o deal_v with_o they_o after_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o word_n of_o jeremiah_n do_v comprehend_v the_o apostle_n meaning_n for_o the_o word_n may_v bear_v both_o that_o god_n be_v a_o husband_n unto_o they_o to_o wit_n in_o make_v a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n with_o they_o and_o that_o he_o deal_v with_o they_o as_o a_o lord_n over_o they_o by_o exact_v of_o they_o the_o penalty_n of_o the_o break_a covenant_n of_o work_n and_o of_o the_o reject_a covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o ●o_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o it_o in_o express_a term_n first_o by_o god_n promise_v that_o he_o will_v make_v a_o new_a covenant_n with_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o judah_n second_o by_o his_o set_n better_a promise_n before_o they_o then_o these_o be_v which_o be_v make_v to_o the_o father_n in_o the_o wilderness_n three_o by_o his_o giving_z no_o other_o cause_n of_o bestow_v so_o great_a blessing_n on_o they_o but_o his_o own_o goodwill_n and_o pleasure_n four_o by_o his_o require_v no_o other_o condition_n of_o they_o but_o say_v that_o they_o who_o feel_v in_o themselves_o the_o want_n and_o need_v of_o the_o promise_a blessing_n and_o be_v convince_v of_o their_o own_o unworthiness_n may_v give_v credit_n unto_o god_n that_o make_v the_o promise_n and_o so_o embrace_v the_o promise_n and_o apply_v they_o to_o their_o own_o use_n as_o to_o the_o external_a dispensation_n of_o the_o covenant_n it_o be_v certain_a first_o that_o it_o be_v common_a to_o all_o that_o be_v external_o call_v to_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o the_o covenant_n make_v in_o the_o wilderness_n with_o the_o elect_a father_n and_o reprobat_fw-la with_o the_o believer_n and_o un-believer_n with_o those_o that_o reject_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o offer_n of_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n and_o with_o those_o who_o look_v through_o the_o vail_n afar_o off_o to_o christ_n come_v and_o be_v save_v be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o 2._o it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o external_a form_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v more_o obscure_a and_o veil_v over_o by_o the_o type_n and_o figure_n of_o the_o levitical_a ceremony_n before_o christ_n come_v but_o after_o his_o come_n it_o be_v propound_v in_o clear_a and_o better_a promise_n 3._o a_o day_n be_v set_v to_o wit_n the_o fullness_n of_o time_n when_o these_o shadow_n and_o typical_a figure_n shall_v be_v abolish_v and_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v set_v before_o his_o people_n to_o be_v look_v upon_o with_o open_a face_n 4._o and_o yet_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v not_o so_o hide_v and_o obscure_o propound_v to_o the_o church_n before_o christ_n come_n as_o it_o can_v not_o be_v take_v up_o by_o the_o child_n of_o god_n for_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o shadow_n and_o dark_a typ_n the_o starlight_n of_o gracious_a promise_n do_v shine_v and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n be_v in_o substance_n hold_v forth_o by_o the_o prophet_n and_o one_o instance_n thereof_o do_v appear_v in_o this_o place_n of_o jeremiah_n as_o to_o the_o internal_a covenant_n of_o grace_n first_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v promise_v in_o that_o covenant_n do_v declare_v in_o what_o state_n god_n do_v find_v man_n who_o he_o do_v convert_v and_o draw_v into_o covenant_n with_o himself_o for_o when_o the_o lord_n take_v in_o hand_n that_o he_o will_v write_v his_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n that_o he_o will_v teach_v they_o himself_o to_o know_v he_o by_o the_o teach_n of_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n and_o that_o he_o will_v forgive_v their_o sin_n he_o presupposeth_a that_o lawless_a rebellion_n do_v reign_v in_o they_o with_o blindness_n of_o mind_n and_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o that_o the_o elect_n by_o nature_n be_v without_o law_n without_o god_n without_o faith_n before_o he_o reform_v they_o according_a to_o the_o article_n or_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n 2._o albeit_o by_o nature_n the_o law_n be_v write_v in_o man_n heart_n as_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o sundry_a moral_a duty_n and_o so_o far_o as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o inexcusable_a for_o their_o contraveen_v these_o spark_n of_o light_n rom._n 1._o ●0_n and_o 2_o 14._o 15._o yet_o the_o writing_n of_o the_o law_n here_o promise_v be_v spiritual_a and_o supernatural_a enlighten_v their_o mind_n by_o the_o light_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o renew_v their_o heart_n and_o in_o effect_n the_o thing_n promise_v be_v actual_a conversion_n of_o they_o 3._o and_o see_v conversion_n be_v here_o promise_v by_o christ_n the_o testator_n absolute_o he_o have_v take_v in_o hand_n absolute_o to_o effectuate_v it_o for_o it_o be_v not_o say_v i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n if_o they_o please_v to_o suffer_v i_o but_o determinate_o i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n i_o will_v write_v my_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o inward_a part_n that_o be_v i_o will_v make_v they_o willing_a who_o be_v averse_a and_o obedient_a to_o my_o law_n who_o be_v rebellious_a 4._o christ_n the_o testator_n do_v in_o all_o this_o not_o satisfy_v himself_o by_o promise_v the_o illumination_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o incline_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o a_o time_n but_o promise_v also_o to_o make_v a_o solid_a and_o permanent_a work_n of_o it_o by_o make_v they_o persevere_v which_o be_v import_v in_o the_o word_n i_o will_v put_v and_o i_o will_v write_v it_o for_o to_o write_v it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o to_o fix_v and_o engrave_v it_o that_o it_o may_v remain_v 5._o the_o chief_a head_n of_o the_o covenant_n and_o which_o in_o substance_n do_v contain_v all_o blessing_n be_v set_v down_o in_o these_o word_n i_o will_v be_v their_o god_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v my_o people_n for_o by_o this_o promise_n right_o be_v grant_v unto_o the_o true_a heartconvert_v and_o confederate_a first_o unto_o god_n himself_o then_o unto_o all_o his_o benefit_n whereof_o he_o have_v need_n in_o order_n to_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n for_o they_o who_o god_n the_o lord_n be_v they_o do_v live_v and_o shall_v live_v for_o ever_o as_o christ_n say_v god_n be_v not_o the_o god_n of_o the_o dead_a but_o of_o the_o live_n matth._n 22._o 32._o and_o all_o particular_a promise_n what_o be_v they_o else_o but_o explication_n of_o this_o great_a and_o first_o promise_n and_o application_n thereof_o to_o his_o child_n case_n in_o particular_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v promise_v here_o and_o enduement_n whereof_o disciple_n have_v need_n whereof_o pilgrim_n go_v home_o to_o that_o heavenly_a city_n have_v need_v yea_o the_o spirit_n himself_o be_v promise_v to_o they_o who_o be_v to_o remain_v with_o they_o to_o the_o end_n of_o their_o life_n as_o a_o direct_a and_o leader_n they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o say_v the_o lord_n that_o be_v as_o christ_n do_v interpret_v it_o they_o shall_v be_v all_o teach_v of_o god_n joh._n 6._o 45._o 7._o the_o lord_n show_v here_o that_o he_o will_v deal_v with_o man_n in_o their_o regeneration_n and_o reconciliation_n as_o with_o reasonable_a creature_n by_o preserve_v and_o not_o destroy_v they_o in_o their_o simple_a natural_n by_o maintain_v and_o not_o overturning_a the_o liberty_n of_o their_o freewill_n i_o will_v make_v a_o covenant_n say_v he_o with_o the_o house_n of_o judah_n now_o a_o covenant_n be_v a_o free_a and_o voluntar_n contract_n 8._o he_o show_v that_o he_o be_v lord_n and_o over-ruler_n of_o man_n will_n who_o can_v turn_v it_o about_o as_o he_o please_v and_o that_o he_o be_v not_o hinder_v nor_o impede_v to_o execute_v and_o bring_v to_o pass_v whatsoever_o he_o have_v purpose_v to_o do_v by_o the_o
may_v weaken_v their_o faith_n and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o believe_v and_o to_o be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n glory_n and_o careful_a to_o bring_v forth_o more_o and_o more_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o work_v such_o other_o gracious_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o his_o child_n as_o may_v more_o and_o more_o mortify_v sin_n in_o they_o and_o perfect_a the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o his_o new_a creature_n this_o divine_a magisteriall_a and_o effectual_a application_n of_o real_a blessing_n belong_v to_o god_n only_o and_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o ministerial_a application_n which_o be_v of_o the_o external_a mean_n appoint_v of_o god_n to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o man_n the_o blessing_n whereof_o must_v be_v leave_v to_o god_n to_o bestow_v on_o who_o how_o and_o in_o what_o measure_n and_o in_o what_o time_n it_o please_v he_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v show_v unto_o we_o 1_o cor._n 3._o 6._o i_o have_v plant_v and_o apollo_n have_v water_v but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n 3._o the_o external_a mean_n which_o do_v serve_v unto_o the_o foresay_a divine_a operation_n be_v 1._o the_o doctrine_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n set_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n to_o be_v hear_v and_o read_v by_o all_o man_n and_o meditat_fw-la upon_o with_o prayer_n for_o a_o blessing_n and_o 2._o send_v minister_n to_o who_o god_n have_v commit_v the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n by_o who_o ministry_n disciple_n may_v be_v make_v unto_o christ_n out_o of_o all_o nation_n and_o 3._o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n whereby_o they_o with_o their_o child_n be_v baptize_v and_o gather_v together_o in_o several_a church_n and_o put_v under_o the_o government_n of_o such_o church-officer_n as_o his_o testament_n have_v appoint_v and_o 4._o these_o church_n join_v together_o in_o the_o most_o edify_a way_n of_o mutual_a communion_n and_o strengthen_v one_o another_o in_o true_a doctrine_n pure_a worship_n and_o discipline_n which_o god_n providence_n do_v make_v way_n for_o that_o the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n may_v continue_v and_o grow_v in_o the_o world_n and_o all_o his_o ordinance_n may_v be_v exercise_v public_o and_o private_o to_o the_o best_a advantage_n of_o the_o church_n for_o perfect_v of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n require_v ephes._n 4._o 12_o 13_o 14._o 4._o in_o the_o use_n of_o these_o external_a mean_n and_o special_o in_o the_o application_n of_o these_o three_o covenant_n prudence_n be_v require_v both_o in_o pastor_n and_o people_n to_o which_o intent_n and_o purpose_n these_o follow_a consideration_n may_v serve_v 1._o the_o remedy_n of_o every_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n must_v be_v ground_v on_o the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n which_o doctrine_n 〈…〉_z be_v know_v and_o believe_v by_o the_o porty_fw-la 〈◊〉_d before_o he_o can_v receive_v benefit_n thereby_o and_o 〈…〉_z a_o prudent_a application_n of_o wholesome_a and_o save_a doctrine_n may_v be_v make_v of_o necessity_n the_o party_n disease_v must_v be_v acqu●●ared_v with_o the_o doctrine_n to_o be_v apply_v unto_o he_o before_o he_o can_v make_v use_n thereof_o to_o his_o advantage_n for_o experience_n teach_v we_o how_o hardly_o gross_a ignorant_o can_v be_v convince_v of_o sin_n add_v how_o hardly_o such_o can_v be_v comfort_v when_o their_o conscience_n be_v waken_v with_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n because_o they_o neither_o know_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o cause_n of_o the_o terror_n and_o anxiety_n wherein_o they_o be_v nor_o can_v they_o be_v capable_a of_o the_o remedy_n of_o their_o evil_n except_o they_o first_o be_v catechise_v in_o the_o head_n of_o save_a doctrine_n h●ld_v forth_o in_o the_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o instruction_n can_v hardly_o be_v give_v or_o receive_v in_o a_o short_a time_n and_o howsoever_o a_o prudent_a pastor_n must_v make_v use_n of_o time_n as_o it_o be_v offer_v yet_o when_o death_n be_v near_o to_o the_o party_n to_o be_v instruct_v how_o little_a be_v it_o that_o can_v be_v expect_v to_o be_v do_v 2._o the_o order_n of_o apply_v save_v doctrine_n do_v not_o begin_v at_o the_o application_n either_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n or_o at_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o he_o that_o will_v follow_v a_o right_a order_n must_v begin_v at_o the_o law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n under_o the_o yoke_n whereof_o we_o be_v all_o bear_v by_o nature_n child_n of_o wrath_n and_o if_o a_o man_n apply_v that_o covenant_n and_o law_n to_o his_o heart_n and_o subscribe_v his_o own_o dittey_n and_o deserve_a condemnation_n then_o may_v he_o turn_v up_o his_o soul_n to_o christ_n jesus_n the_o redeemer_n and_o fly_v to_o he_o for_o refuge_n and_o accept_v the_o offer_n which_o he_o make_v in_o his_o gospel_n of_o a_o new_a covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o pardon_v of_o sin_n and_o reconcile_n unto_o god_n in_o himself_o the_o person_n who_o be_v flee_v unto_o he_o and_o for_o sanctify_v and_o save_v of_o he_o which_o covenant_n when_o a_o chase_a soul_n do_v consent_n unto_o and_o lay_v hold_v on_o christ_n offer_v for_o relief_n from_o sin_n wrath_n death_n and_o hell_n then_o may_v he_o ascend_v by_o faith_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o apply_v to_o himself_o with_o god_n allowance_n all_o the_o save_a grace_n purchase_v by_o christ_n by_o that_o covenant_n to_o all_o that_o fly_v unto_o he_o and_o believe_v in_o he_o 3._o this_o order_n of_o make_v use_n of_o these_o three_o covenant_n many_o do_v not_o follow_v but_o they_o begin_v at_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o will_v either_o be_v satisfy_v about_o this_o whether_o they_o be_v elect_v or_o not_o give_v to_o christ_n to_o be_v redeem_v or_o not_o which_o be_v a_o secret_a and_o not_o to_o be_v inquire_v into_o save_v in_o god_n order_n as_o we_o have_v show_v or_o else_o they_o will_v not_o enter_v upon_o the_o use-making_a of_o these_o mean_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v to_o bring_v a_o man_n to_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ._n this_o be_v a_o tentation_n of_o satan_n which_o if_o they_o yield_v unto_o it_o shall_v lead_v they_o either_o to_o resolute_a profanity_n with_o cain_n or_o to_o anxious_a desperation_n with_o judas_n 4._o there_o be_v some_o also_o who_o make_v leap-year_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o do_v take_v no_o notice_n of_o their_o own_o natural_a sinfulness_n or_o wrath_n due_a to_o they_o and_o lie_v on_o they_o by_o nature_n but_o neglect_v this_o order_n do_v start_v a_o race_n and_o run_v to_o a_o presumptuous_a avouch_v of_o their_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o will_v thrust_v in_o themselves_o in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a give_v before_o the_o world_n be_v unto_o christ_n to_o be_v redeem_v and_o save_v pretend_v their_o believe_v of_o the_o gospel_n when_o they_o have_v not_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n and_o so_o do_v turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o lasciviousness_n and_o wantonness_n and_o go_v about_o the_o satisfy_n and_o fulfil_n of_o their_o own_o lust_n wherefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o every_o man_n who_o seek_v to_o be_v save_v and_o have_v resolve_v to_o follow_v god_n way_n to_o attain_v unto_o salvation_n do_v begin_v first_o at_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n and_o examine_v himself_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n how_o he_o have_v behave_v himself_o in_o obedience_n unto_o the_o first_o and_o second_o table_n and_o have_v sound_v a_o dittey_n great_a enough_o that_o he_o judge_v himself_o and_o pass_v sentence_n on_o himself_o as_o guilty_a and_o worthy_a of_o everlasting_a wrath_n for_o his_o sin_n second_o when_o he_o be_v convince_v of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a wrath_n and_o of_o his_o own_o utter_a impotency_n to_o deliver_v himself_o then_o let_v he_o flee_v to_o christ_n and_o lay_v hold_v on_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n apply_v the_o same_o to_o his_o burden_a conscience_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n full_o reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o three_o when_o he_o have_v in_o earnest_n consent_v unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o have_v lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n with_o unfeigned_a faith_n seek_v in_o he_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o renovation_n of_o life_n be_v resolve_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n to_o use_v the_o mean_n appoint_v of_o he_o for_o that_o end_n now_o it_o be_v time_n and_o not_o till_o now_o to_o look_v up_o unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o redemption_n and_o there_o to_o read_v his_o own_o name_n as_o it_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o to_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o measure_n of_o repentance_n and_o
faith_n in_o christ_n bestow_v on_o himself_o now_o in_o experience_n have_v flow_v from_o that_o fountain_n of_o god_n love_n and_o free_a grace_n through_o christ._n except_o this_o order_n be_v keep_v a_o man_n can_v warrantable_o and_o with_o confidence_n and_o comfort_n make_v application_n of_o these_o covenant_n hence_o it_o follow_v that_o it_o be_v a_o preposterous_a and_o perilous_a course_n which_o some_o do_v follow_v and_o press_v other_o to_o follow_v that_o present_o upon_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n every_o man_n shall_v believe_v that_o christ_n have_v die_v for_o he_o for_o christ_n call_v no_o man_n warrand_v no_o man_n to_o come_v to_o he_o except_o he_o first_o do_v acknowledge_v his_o sin_n and_o himself_o to_o be_v worthy_a of_o wrath_n condemnation_n and_o hell_n for_o his_o sin_n and_o to_o be_v utter_o unable_a to_o save_v himself_o by_o any_o mean_a save_v by_o christ_n for_o luke_n 5._o 32._o christ_n say_v i_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n unto_o repentance_n neither_o do_v christ_n require_v of_o any_o man_n to_o believe_v himself_o to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o christ_n sheep_n for_o who_o he_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n except_o he_o come_v by_o faith_n as_o a_o lose_a sinner_n to_o he_o and_o submit_v himself_o to_o his_o doctrine_n and_o discipline_n and_o pastoral_a care_n over_o he_o for_o joh._n 17._o 9_o christ_n say_v i_o pray_v not_o for_o the_o world_n but_o for_o these_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o out_o of_o the_o world_n and_o no_o man_n shall_v know_v that_o himself_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o christ_n till_o first_o he_o come_v in_o the_o order_n foresay_a unto_o christ_n and_o when_o he_o be_v come_v to_o christ_n resolve_v to_o abide_v with_o he_o then_o may_v he_o say_v the_o father_n have_v give_v i_o to_o christ_n and_o draw_v i_o to_o christ_n for_o this_o be_v the_o mark_n which_o christ_n give_v joh._n 6._o 37._o all_o that_o the_o father_n have_v give_v unto_o i_o shall_v come_v to_o i_o and_o again_o vers_fw-la 44._o no_o man_n come_v unto_o i_o except_o the_o father_n draw_v he_o 3._o there_o be_v a_o order_n al●o_o to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o application_n of_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o in_o the_o evangel_n first_o christ_n himself_o be_v offer_v as_o the_o only_a and_o sufficient_a remedy_n against_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o next_o unto_o the_o person_n that_o receive_v christ_n hearty_o all_o christ_n benefit_n be_v promise_v to_o come_v to_o he_o by_o christ_n and_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o and_o through_o christ_n such_o as_o be_v justification_n adoption_n the_o indwel_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n love_n joy_n peace_n gentleness_n bounty_n fidelity_n meekness_n temperance_n and_o other_o christian_a grace_n gal_n 5._o 22._o for_o no_o man_n have_v right_a unto_o christ_n benefit_n before_o he_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ._n but_o so_o soon_o as_o a_o man_n in_o the_o foresay_a order_n be_v flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v lay_v hold_n on_o he_o by_o faith_n straight_a way_n a_o door_n and_o entresse_n be_v open_v unto_o he_o unto_o the_o rich_a treasure_n of_o grace_n and_o right_o be_v give_v to_o he_o unto_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n for_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o not_o before_o a_o man_n come_v to_o christ_n not_o to_o a_o man_n without_o christ_n but_o they_o be_v all_o yea_o and_o a_o man_n in_o christ._n 4._o therefore_o they_o wrong_v both_o god_n and_o their_o own_o self_n who_o when_o they_o come_v unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n do_v prescribe_v unto_o god_n another_o order_n of_o work_v than_o he_o have_v set_v down_o in_o his_o word_n crave_v in_o the_o first_o place_n consolation_n and_o sensible_a peace_n in_o their_o conscience_n feel_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o that_o god_n will_v work_v some_o such_o save_a grace_n in_o their_o heart_n which_o the_o reprobat_fw-la can_v counterfeit_v which_o direction_n if_o god_n will_v take_v off_o their_o hand_n and_o bestow_v his_o grace_n on_o they_o sensible_o as_o they_o prescribe_v unto_o he_o than_o they_o will_v stand_v oblige_v to_o continue_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n but_o if_o they_o find_v not_o their_o direction_n obey_v and_o their_o petition_n in_o their_o order_n grant_v then_o with_o grief_n of_o heart_n they_o begin_v to_o complain_v and_o to_o pretend_v that_o they_o dare_v not_o approach_v unto_o god_n or_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o these_o petition_n be_v not_o first_o grant_v and_o feel_v to_o be_v grant_v this_o temptation_n do_v invert_v and_o overturn_v the_o order_n of_o go●s_n call_v for_o christ_n do_v not_o call_v unto_o he_o well-doer_n or_o these_o that_o do_v find_v their_o faith_n upon_o their_o own_o good_a behaviour_n and_o lean_a to_o their_o own_o work_n which_o they_o desire_v to_o find_v in_o themselves_o before_o they_o fasten_v faith_n on_o christ_n but_o christ_n do_v call_v sinner_n in_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o acknowledgement_n who_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n past_a present_a or_o to_o come_v he_o call_v such_o as_o be_v lose_v in_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o do_v feel_v themselves_o utter_o unable_a so_o much_o as_o to_o think_v a_o good_a thought_n of_o themselves_o that_o they_o may_v be_v clothe_v with_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o sanctification_n by_o he_o and_o christ_n will_n be_v that_o they_o who_o believe_v in_o he_o abide_v in_o he_o and_o suck_v by_o faith_n out_o of_o he_o as_o the_o branch_n do_v suck_v sap_n out_o of_o the_o tree_n grace_v to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n more_o and_o more_o abundant_o for_o this_o be_v the_o order_n which_o christ_n do_v prescribe_v unto_o his_o disciple_n joh._n 15._o 5._o he_o that_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o he_o the_o same_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n for_o without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o whosoever_o therefore_o will_v not_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o do_v think_v it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o approach_v unto_o he_o till_o first_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o amendment_n of_o life_n and_o evident_a fruit_n of_o save_a faith_n they_o do_v in_o effect_n change_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o do_v suspend_v their_o faith_n in_o christ_n till_o they_o find_v work_n to_o build_v upon_o when_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n the_o more_o they_o feel_v their_o barrenness_n so_o much_o the_o more_o strait_o to_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n and_o hold_v he_o fast_o and_o ply_v he_o with_o earnest_a supplication_n to_o make_v good_a his_o promise_n to_o they_o who_o do_v abide_v in_o he_o joh._n 15._o 5._o 5._o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o press_v every_o man_n who_o do_v believe_v his_o justification_n by_o faith_n that_o he_o be_v careful_a to_o observe_v the_o moral_a law_n or_o ten_o command_n as_o the_o perpetual_a and_o unchangeable_a rule_n of_o good_a work_n prescribe_v of_o god_n for_o christ_n come_v not_o to_o destroy_v the_o law_n but_o to_o fulfil_v it_o matth._n 5._o 17._o he_o have_v indeed_o unto_o believer_n in_o he_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o the_o law_n not_o only_o by_o his_o doctrine_n teach_v they_o that_o by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n no_o flesh_n shall_v be_v justify_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n because_o by_o the_o law_n be_v the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n get_v but_o no_o absolution_n from_o sin_n rom._n 3._o 20._o but_o also_o by_o absolve_v every_o believer_n in_o he_o that_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n from_o all_o condemnation_n rom._n 8._o 1●_n mean_a while_o he_o have_v not_o break_v the_o yoke_n of_o obedience_n of_o the_o law_n from_o off_o the_o believer_n as_o he_o have_v break_v off_o the_o yoke_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n but_o by_o the_o contrair_a he_o prescribe_v to_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o they_o take_v on_o his_o yoke_n upon_o they_o and_o bring_v forth_o work_v of_o new_a obedience_n matth._n 11._o 29._o and_o this_o be_v the_o order_n which_o the_o apostle_n do_v prescribe_v tit._n 3._o 8._o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o these_o thing_n i_o will_v thou_o affirm_v constant_o that_o they_o which_o have_v believe_v in_o god_n may_v be_v careful_a to_o maintain_v good_a work_n these_o thing_n be_v good_a and_o profitable_a unto_o man_n 6._o the_o moral_a precept_n of_o the_o law_n be_v so_o to_o be_v press_v that_o the_o hearer_n whether_o un-converted_n or_o convert_v may_v by_o they_o whether_o in_o some_o measure_n obey_v or_o disobey_v be_v drive_v to_o christ_n that_o the_o law_n may_v ever_o in_o some_o sort_n be_v a_o pedagogue_n unto_o christ_n for_o before_o conversion_n
conclusion_n draw_v therefrom_o and_o by_o holy_a reason_n tie_v themselves_o to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o word_n of_o god_n rom._n 6._o 11._o likeways_o say_v he_o by_o reason_v reckon_v you_o yourselves_o to_o be_v deal_n unto_o sin_n but_o alive_a unto_o god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n and_o give_v a_o example_n of_o this_o reason_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 14._o 15._o the_o love_n of_o god_n constrain_v we_o because_o we_o thus_o judge_v etc._n etc._n 11._o because_o the_o lord_n divers_a way_n according_a to_o his_o own_o wisdom_n exercise_v man_n that_o sometime_o by_o his_o long-suffering_a patience_n he_o lead_v they_o unto_o repentance_n sometime_o also_o by_o his_o word_n and_o rod_n he_o do_v drive_v they_o thereunto_o therefore_o let_v the_o use_n of_o all_o exercise_n all_o temptation_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o use_n of_o all_o benefit_n and_o divine_a dispensation_n of_o providence_n be_v careful_o make_v use_n of_o that_o man_n may_v so_o look_v upon_o god_n bounty_n and_o long-suffering_a on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o upon_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n as_o they_o may_v be_v lead_v and_o constrain_v in_o love_n to_o seek_v after_o so_o gracious_a a_o god_n and_o to_o flee_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n mourn_v for_o their_o provoke_v of_o justice_n so_o oft_o against_o themselves_o and_o in_o whatsoever_o condition_n of_o prosperity_n or_o adversity_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o god_n however_o he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o dispose_v of_o they_o 12._o the_o doctrine_n of_o reprobation_n must_v not_o be_v determinate_o apply_v to_o any_o particular_a person_n how_o wicked_a soever_o he_o shall_v for_o the_o present_a appear_v neither_o must_v the_o suspicion_n which_o any_o man_n may_v have_v of_o his_o own_o reprobation_n be_v ●ostered_v because_o particular_a reprobation_n of_o this_o or_o that_o person_n be_v among_o the_o secret_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o to_o be_v meddle_v with_o whereof_o a_o man_n may_v not_o give_v out_o sentence_n before_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v his_o own_o decree_n but_o on_o the_o contrair_a all_o the_o hearer_n must_v be_v warn_v and_o press_v to_o be_v wary_a to_o entertain_v any_o hostile_a thought_n of_o god_n or_o to_o foster_v suspicion_n of_o he_o as_o implacable_a but_o rather_o think_v of_o he_o as_o their_o faithful_a creator_n just_o indeed_o yet_o merciful_a long-suffering_a and_o bountiful_a both_o to_o the_o kind_n and_o the_o un-kind_n as_o they_o shall_v find_v if_o they_o will_v seek_v he_o for_o satan_n will_v press_v this_o temptation_n hard_a enough_o and_o foster_v the_o suspicion_n which_o he_o have_v suggest_v against_o god_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o they_o who_o god_n have_v afflict_v albeit_o he_o get_v no_o assistance_n by_o any_o imprudent_a and_o un-just_a application_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n unto_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a person_n to_o conclude_v their_o reprobation_n 13._o the_o scope_n of_o all_o doctrine_n must_v be_v this_o that_o sinner_n may_v be_v humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o unrighteousness_n indigence_n infirmity_n and_o unworthiness_n and_o be_v humble_v may_v be_v lead_v unto_o christ_n believe_v in_o he_o and_o be_v more_o and_o more_o glue_v unto_o he_o and_o grow_v in_o the_o love_n of_o he_o and_o rest_v their_o soul_n upon_o he_o as_o god_n one_o with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n endeavour_v according_a to_o their_o vocation_n to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n in_o themselves_o and_o other_o and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v neither_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n his_o incarnation_n nor_o humiliation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n wherein_o he_o be_v in_o pay_v the_o promise_a price_n of_o our_o redemption_n derogat_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o estimation_n of_o his_o person_n who_o be_v one_o god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n god_n over_o all_o bless_a for_o ever_o nor_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n his_o majesty_n make_v sinner_n stand_v off_o or_o be_v afraid_a to_o make_v their_o address_n to_o he_o but_o by_o the_o contrair_a that_o the_o personal_a union_n of_o the_o divine_a and_o humane_a nature_n in_o he_o and_o his_o clothing_n himself_o with_o the_o office_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n may_v allure_v all_o sinner_n who_o hear_v of_o he_o to_o come_v to_o he_o as_o mediator_a who_o will_v not_o deal_v with_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o he_o as_o a_o judge_n against_o they_o but_o as_o a_o advocate_n surety_n and_o intercessor_n for_o they_o and_o who_o will_v save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a every_o one_o that_o come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o heb._n 7._o 25._o 14._o for_o trial_n of_o a_o man_n regeneration_n and_o come_v right_o to_o christ_n and_o grow_v in_o grace_n the_o exercise_n of_o these_o three_o duty_n be_v necessary_o require_v to_o wit_n 1._o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n or_o the_o entertain_n in_o himself_o of_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o natural_a sinfulness_n and_o infirmity_n to_o do_v good_a and_o of_o the_o power_n of_o inherent_a corruption_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v make_v more_o and_o more_o to_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o himself_o and_o walk_v humble_o before_o god_n 2._o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n or_o the_o daily_o renew_v employ_v of_o christ_n for_o grace_n and_o actual_a help_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o his_o case_n require_v 3._o the_o exercise_n of_o love_n or_o the_o endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n flow_v from_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o neighbour_n through_o christ._n chap._n ix_o of_o the_o more_o special_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n for_o remove_v the_o impediment_n of_o regeneration_n we_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o prudent_a application_n of_o divine_a covenant_n in_o general_a it_o follow_v that_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o cure_n of_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n concern_v regeneration_n more_o special_o some_o of_o these_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o hinder_v regeneration_n that_o it_o be_v not_o wrought_v at_o all_o whereof_o we_o shall_v speak_v god_n willing_a in_o the_o rest_n of_o this_o first_o book_n other_o sickness_n do_v tend_v to_o obscure_v the_o work_n of_o regeneration_n begin_v and_o to_o foster_v question_n in_o the_o regenerate_a man_n and_o make_v he_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v or_o not_o or_o whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v somewhat_o in_o the_o second_o book_n and_o last_o of_o all_o some_o case_n and_o sickness_n of_o the_o conscience_n do_v tend_v towards_o the_o deceive_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n about_o his_o present_a condition_n wherein_o he_o be_v without_o call_v his_o state_n in_o question_n at_o the_o first_o and_o of_o these_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o three_o book_n 2._o as_o for_o the_o first_o sort_n these_o case_n which_o impede_fw-la and_o altogether_o mar_v regeneration_n can_v easy_o be_v number_v because_o of_o the_o multitude_n of_o deceit_n whereby_o the_o unregenerat_a be_v delude_v but_o it_o shall_v suffice_v for_o our_o purpose_n to_o name_v some_o of_o they_o only_o for_o example_n cause_n in_o handle_v whereof_o the_o way_n of_o cure_v other_o like_a case_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o handle_v of_o these_o case_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v we_o shall_v follow_v any_o exact_a method_n or_o accurate_a distinction_n of_o one_o case_n from_o another_o partly_o because_o many_o fault_n may_v be_v various_o interweave_v one_o with_o another_o partly_o because_o in_o all_o these_o case_n the_o same_o fault_n be_v find_v after_o divers_a way_n to_o put_v forth_o their_o poison_n we_o therefore_o that_o we_o may_v follow_v the_o easy_a course_n shall_v divide_v all_o unregenerat_a man_n impede_v their_o own_o regeneration_n in_o three_o rank_n the_o first_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o eshew_v so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n lest_o it_o shall_v pronounce_v sentence_n of_o their_o state_n and_o disquiet_v they_o the_o second_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o do_v judge_v themselves_o indeed_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o after_o examination_n do_v despair_n of_o any_o remedy_n the_o three_o rank_n shall_v be_v of_o those_o who_o make_v a_o slight_a examination_n of_o themselves_o and_o upon_o some_o slight_a pretence_n give_v our_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n of_o themselves_o which_o god_n will_v not_o allow_v 3._o as_o to_o the_o first_o rank_n to_o wit_n of_o those_o that_o eshew_v all_o examination_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n we_o shall_v name_v only_o seven_o sickness_n or_o impediment_n hinder_v their_o self-examination_n and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o themselves_o the_o first_o be_v gross_a ignorance_n of_o their_o natural_a sin_n and_o misery_n and_o of_o deliverance_n to_o be_v have_v through_o christ_n
and_o covenant_n of_o work_n for_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o when_o god_n be_v deal_n with_o those_o that_o be_v already_o justify_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n and_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n and_o flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v take_v on_o his_o yoke_n the_o lord_n do_v take_v in_o good_a part_n the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n and_o do_v much_o esteem_n the_o tender_a fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o the_o place_n cite_v isa._n 1._o and_o 2_o cor._n 8._o do_v show_v but_o when_o the_o lord_n have_v to_o do_v with_o the_o proud_a natural_a man_n the_o unrenewed_a man_n the_o man_n that_o be_v not_o humble_v for_o violation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n he_o deal_v with_o he_o according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n according_a to_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n pronounce_v his_o curse_n against_o that_o man_n for_o every_o sin_n till_o the_o sinner_n be_v humble_v and_o sly_a to_o christ._n 5._o with_o the_o former_a we_o may_v join_v all_o these_o who_o believe_v they_o may_v wash_v away_o their_o sin_n partly_o by_o bear_v such_o affliction_n as_o be_v lay_v on_o they_o by_o god_n in_o this_o life_n partly_o by_o their_o tear_n prayer_n fasting_n pilgrimage_n penance_n and_o scourge_v of_o themselves_o and_o partly_o by_o their_o almsdeed_n and_o other_o good_a work_n do_v believe_v they_o shall_v make_v amends_o for_o all_o their_o misdeed_n and_o what_o they_o can_v perfect_v in_o this_o life_n for_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o good_a work_n they_o will_v take_v assignation_n to_o the_o supererogation_n and_o superfluity_n of_o the_o merit_n of_o saint_n make_v over_o unto_o they_o by_o the_o pope_n and_o what_o for_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o suffering_n be_v not_o endure_v in_o this_o life_n they_o will_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o endure_v in_o a_o imaginary_a purgatory_n and_o place_n of_o hell_n after_o this_o life_n and_o so_o poor_a soul_n they_o think_v they_o may_v absolve_v themselves_o at_o least_o from_o the_o sentence_n of_o everlasting_a condemnation_n by_o such_o poor_a shift_n as_o those_o but_o the_o truth_n be_v so_o long_o as_o they_o rely_v upon_o their_o own_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n they_o deny_v both_o the_o necessity_n and_o the_o worth_n of_o christ_n suffering_n and_o so_o long_o as_o they_o have_v confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n or_o work_n of_o other_o man_n they_o reject_v and_o disclaim_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o yet_o behold_v how_o proud_a they_o prove_v themselves_o to_o be_v isa._n 58._o 3._o when_o they_o plead_v with_o god_n say_v wherefore_o have_v we_o fast_v and_o thou_o see_v not_o wherefore_o have_v we_o afflict_v our_o soul_n and_o thou_o take_v no_o knowledge_n 6._o last_o of_o all_o unto_o the_o former_a sort_n we_o join_v these_o who_o please_v themselves_o in_o the_o composition_n of_o righteousness_n by_o work_n and_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n think_v to_o save_v themselves_o under_o the_o shelter_n of_o the_o one_o righteousness_n or_o of_o the_o other_o however_o god_n shall_v deal_v with_o they_o such_o be_v the_o seducer_n and_o seduce_v among_o the_o galatian_n for_o refute_v of_o whole_a error_n the_o apostle_n as_o it_o be_v travel_v in_o birth_n till_o he_o bring_v they_o to_o take_v up_o the_o right_a frame_n of_o christ_n way_n of_o salvation_n 7._o the_o cause_n of_o all_o such_o man_n deceive_v of_o themselves_o in_o a_o false_a absolution_n of_o their_o conscience_n be_v their_o ignorance_n both_o of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o the_o righteousness_n by_o faith_n for_o such_o as_o think_v their_o sin_n be_v so_o few_o and_o light_n or_o their_o life_n so_o innocent_a or_o their_o good_a work_n they_o have_v do_v so_o weighty_a and_o their_o purpose_n to_o do_v yet_o more_o good_a work_n to_o be_v so_o holy_a or_o their_o pain_n take_v in_o religion_n so_o considerable_a or_o their_o suffering_n resolve_v upon_o so_o great_a and_o thereupon_o do_v absolve_v themselves_o consider_v not_o that_o the_o law_n or_o covenant_n of_o work_n do_v require_v perfect_a personal_a obedience_n to_o all_o god_n law_n under_o the_o pain_n of_o god_n curse_n grow_v in_o item_n as_o the_o law_n be_v often_o transgress_v till_o they_o fly_v in_o to_o the_o perfect_a ransom_n of_o christ_n obedience_n and_o as_o for_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n in_o jesus_n they_o consider_v not_o that_o his_o righteousness_n will_v not_o be_v bestow_v upon_o any_o who_o do_v not_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o or_o other_o work_n and_o betake_v themselves_o altogether_o to_o the_o only_a grace_n of_o christ_n they_o consider_v not_o that_o if_o the_o worth_n of_o any_o work_n be_v rely_v upon_o the_o bargain_n of_o free_a grace_n be_v spoil_v and_o clear_v mar_v for_o if_o it_o he_o by_o work_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o grace_n and_o if_o it_o be_v of_o grace_n it_o be_v no_o more_o of_o work_n for_o these_o two_o be_v so_o opposite_a one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o man_n election_n and_o justification_n that_o they_o can_v no_o more_o consist_v together_o as_o cause_n procure_v or_o move_v god_n than_o contradictory_n sentence_n can_v be_v both_o true_a as_o paul_n teach_v rom._n 11._o 6._o 3_o a_o three_o sort_n of_o self-deceiver_n and_o unwarrant_v self-●b●olvers_a we_o reckon_v all_o person_n poison_v with_o deadly_a heresy_n who_o be_v draw_v away_o from_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n set_v down_o in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n turn_v after_o some_o false_a christ_n and_o false_a religion_n of_o man_n or_o their_o own_o devise_v give_v unto_o their_o idol_n what_o worship_n what_o service_n what_o employment_n what_o power_n they_o please_v and_o make_v their_o own_o condition_n of_o peace_n with_o god_n as_o they_o think_v good_a some_o deny_v the_o eternity_n of_o the_o godhead_n of_o the_o true_a christ_n some_o the_o reality_n of_o his_o assume_v humane_a nature_n some_o evacuate_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v his_o three_o office_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o his_o execution_n thereof_o all_o of_o they_o promise_v to_o themselves_o salvation_n in_o another_o then_o in_o the_o true_a christ_n describe_v to_o we_o in_o scripture_n who_o be_v creator_n up-holder_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o thing_n very_o coeternal_a god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n make_v man_n everliving_a prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n to_o his_o church_n both_o before_o his_o incarnation_n and_o constant_o since_o the_o way_n the_o truth_n and_o the_o life_n make_v of_o god_n unto_o true_a believer_n in_o he_o wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n who_o walk_n among_o the_o golden_a candle-stick_n and_o search_v the_o way_n and_o heart_n of_o every_o man_n as_o he_o hold_v forth_o himself_o in_o these_o epistle_n unto_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n revel_v chap._n 2._o and_o 3._o of_o this_o danger_n of_o mistake_v the_o true_a christ_n and_o embrace_v a_o false_a in_o his_o room_n he_o himself_o do_v careful_o forewarn_a his_o disciple_n math._n 24._o 4_o 5_o 24_o 25_o 26_o take_v heed_n that_o no_o man_n deceive_v you_o for_o many_o shall_v come_v in_o my_o name_n say_v i_o be_o christ_n and_o shall_v deceive_v many_o the_o proper_a remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v this_o let_v every_o one_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o church_n not_o only_o in_o these_o seven_o epistle_n but_o also_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o be_v the_o expression_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n but_o if_o any_o man_n receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o love_n set_v down_o by_o the_o lord_n spirit_n in_o the_o scripture_n his_o punishment_n be_v set_v down_o by_o the_o apostle_n 2_o thess_n 2._o 11._o and_o for_o this_o cause_n to_o wit_n because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o love_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v god_n shall_v send_v they_o strong_a delusion_n that_o they_o shall_v believe_v a_o lie_n that_o they_o all_o may_v be_v damn_v who_o believe_v not_o the_o truth_n but_o have_v pleasure_n in_o unrighteousness_n 1._o the_o four_o sort_n of_o absolver_n of_o themselves_o without_o god_n warrant_n be_v these_o who_o pretend_v unto_o true_a religion_n and_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o of_o who_o some_o be_v couvince_v of_o their_o duty_n to_o repent_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o forsake_v their_o lust_n and_o to_o endeavour_v a_o reformation_n of_o their_o life_n and_o this_o they_o do_v promise_n to_o themselves_o and_o purpose_n serious_o to_o do_v as_o they_o think_v only_o they_o can_v present_o and_o at_o once_o break_v off_o the_o course_n they_o be_v upon_o but_o do_v hope_n by_o little_a and_o little_a to_o come_v forward_o
they_o read_v very_a fable_n and_o feign_a romance_n which_o they_o know_v to_o be_v such_o and_o yet_o they_o can_v command_v their_o affection_n in_o read_v of_o they_o may_v not_o then_o a_o unrenewed_a man_n give_v as_o much_o credit_n to_o holy_a scripture_n and_o be_v affect_v with_o the_o holy_a history_n thereof_o without_o any_o change_n make_v of_o his_o perverse_a nature_n the_o wisdom_n whereof_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n and_o can_v subject_v itself_o either_o to_o his_o law_n or_o gospel_n second_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o the_o power_n of_o a_o natural_a conscience_n can_v work_v upon_o the_o affection_n by_o just_a accusation_n or_o excusation_n for_o raise_v grief_n and_o joy_n therein_o whereof_o not_o only_a scripture_n but_o also_o heathen_a writer_n do_v bear_v witness_n we_o need_v not_o doubt_n but_o the_o natural_a conscience_n may_v have_v the_o same_o power_n in_o a_o temporary_a believer_n three_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o the_o precept_n of_o moral_a philosophy_n have_v wrought_v upon_o the_o scholar_n of_o socrates_n and_o aristotle_n and_o other_o heathen_a master_n for_o the_o outward_a frame_n of_o they_o unto_o seem_a virtue_n we_o need_v not_o doubt_v what_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n may_v work_v upon_o a_o temporary_a believer_n for_o put_v a_o lustre_n on_o his_o life_n as_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o sundry_a pharisee_n without_o conversion_n and_o renovation_n of_o the_o inner_a man_n towards_o god_n four_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o delight_n be_v find_v by_o scholar_n in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o these_o thing_n which_o philosophy_n do_v treat_v of_o we_o may_v easy_o persuade_v ourselves_o that_o more_o delight_n may_v be_v have_v in_o contemplation_n of_o what_o holy_a scripture_n do_v hold_v forth_o without_o make_v the_o man_n a_o new_a creature_n but_o when_o unto_o the_o natural_a man_n foresay_a seem_a perfection_n knowledge_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o preach_v and_o prophesy_v be_v superad_v which_o be_v but_o movable_a gift_n common_a to_o renew_v and_o unrenewed_a man_n and_o far_o from_o be_v save_v grace_n what_o wonder_v the_o natural_a man_n and_o temporary_a believer_n be_v puff_v up_o with_o a_o high_a estimation_n of_o his_o own_o worth_n and_o hope_n of_o be_v receive_v by_o christ_n the_o judge_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v at_o last_o to_o have_v deceive_v himself_o and_o unwarrantable_o absolve_v himself_o by_o his_o own_o delude_a conscience_n as_o christ_n give_v warning_n math._n 7._o 21._o quest._n but_o what_o can_v a_o temporary_a believer_n want_v come_v up_o all_o the_o length_n that_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o and_o suppose_v to_o be_v endue_v with_o so_o many_o seem_a good_a thing_n whereunto_o many_o save_v saint_n do_v not_o attain_v ans._n every_o save_a saint_n be_v beat_v out_o of_o self-estimation_n for_o any_o thing_n in_o himself_o beat_v out_o of_o confidence_n in_o any_o thing_n he_o do_v or_o can_v do_v and_o be_v humble_v in_o his_o heart_n by_o the_o law_n the_o spiritual_a perfection_n whereof_o be_v understand_v kill_v his_o natural_a pride_n rom._n 7._o 9_o 2._o every_o save_a saint_n be_v chase_v for_o refuge_n to_o fly_v to_o christ_n to_o his_o righteousness_n and_o the_o riches_n of_o grace_n hold_v forth_o in_o he_o and_o every_o save_v saint_n be_v a_o new_a creature_n aim_v more_o and_o more_o to_o follow_v the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o draw_v virtue_n from_o christ_n by_o faith_n to_o please_v god_n and_o worship_n he_o in_o spirit_n phil._n 3._o 3_o so_o that_o his_o purpose_n and_o endeavour_v in_o some_o measure_n be_v like_a unto_o that_o of_o david_n psal._n 71._o 10_o 15_o 16._o saying_n i_o will_v hope_v continual_o and_o i_o will_v praise_v thou_o more_o and_o more_o my_o mouth_n shall_v show_v forth_o thy_o righteousness_n and_o thy_o salvation_n all_o the_o day_n for_o i_o know_v not_o the_o number_n thereof_o i_o will_v walk_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v make_v mention_n of_o thy_o righteousness_n even_o of_o thy_o only_a but_o the_o temporary_a believer_n reckon_v not_o for_o his_o debt_n and_o deserve_n with_o the_o law_n he_o be_v not_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o sinfulness_n and_o inability_n to_o satisfy_v the_o law_n by_o himself_o he_o have_v not_o the_o root_n of_o repentance_n in_o he_o for_o immediate_o upon_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o receive_v the_o word_n with_o joy_n without_o godly_a sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n luk._n 8._o 13._o the_o temporary_a believer_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v his_o own_o righteousness_n upon_o the_o bottom_n of_o his_o own_o blameless_a conversation_n privilege_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o success_n with_o prosperity_n all_o which_o because_o he_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n do_v not_o advance_v he_o above_o the_o state_n of_o the_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n math._n 7._o 21_o 22_o 23._o the_o symptom_n and_o ordinary_a sign_n of_o this_o malady_n of_o unwarrantable_a self-absolution_n be_v these_o 1._o all_o of_o this_o sort_n be_v well_o please_v with_o their_o own_o way_n they_o be_v not_o daily_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o short-coming_a in_o duty_n and_o chase_v to_o christ_n righteousness_n which_o may_v hide_v their_o nakedness_n 2._o they_o be_v all_o secure_a and_o fear_v no_o wrath_n but_o put_v the_o evil_a day_n far_o from_o they_o 3._o they_o can_v be_v induce_v to_o any_o accurate_a examination_n of_o their_o own_o life_n way_n condition_n or_o estate_n if_o any_o man_n insinuate_v any_o suspicion_n of_o hypocrisy_n in_o they_o or_o if_o their_o own_o conscience_n begin_v to_o question_v their_o sincerity_n they_o can_v endure_v it_o 4._o albeit_o they_o say_v unto_o christ_n lord_n lord_n yet_o they_o make_v little_a use_n of_o his_o office_n of_o mediation_n of_o his_o power_n and_o virtue_n for_o illumination_n humiliation_n heal_v and_o help_v on_o to_o salvation_n 5._o they_o look_v more_o to_o the_o seem_a good_a thing_n in_o themselves_o for_o strengthen_v their_o carnal_a confidence_n than_o they_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o evil_a of_o a_o body_n of_o death_n in_o themselves_o to_o drive_v they_o to_o christ_n the_o only_a deliverer_n from_o it_o 6._o yea_o they_o all_o serve_v some_o idol_n lurk_v in_o their_o heart_n they_o yield_v obedience_n to_o some_o reign_a lust_n which_o they_o will_v not_o forsake_v for_o which_o cause_n christ_n foretell_v that_o he_o will_v declare_v they_o to_o be_v but_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n math._n 7._o 23._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v 1._o the_o ignorance_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o utter_a inability_n yea_o averseness_n of_o nature_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o it_o the_o knowledge_n whereof_o may_v make_v man_n live_v all_o their_o day_n in_o a_o loathe_n of_o themselves_o and_o cut_v off_o all_o hope_n of_o obtain_v righteousness_n by_o the_o law_n 2._o the_o ignorance_n of_o that_o dear-bought_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n offer_v to_o impute_v his_o satisfaction_n to_o every_o self-condemned_n sinner_n who_o shall_v fly_v to_o he_o and_o accept_v his_o offer_n 3_o the_o ignorance_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o love_n and_o study_v of_o new_a obedience_n and_o sanctification_n by_o the_o furniture_n of_o christ_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v god_n 4._o the_o take_n of_o a_o presumptuous_a dead_a faith_n in_o stead_n of_o that_o true_a justify_v faith_n which_o lay_v hold_v on_o christ_n and_o work_v by_o love_n the_o take_n of_o a_o vain_a groundless_a hope_n for_o that_o lively_a hope_n which_o purify_v both_o the_o heart_n and_o external_a conversation_n also_o 5._o the_o compare_v of_o themselves_o either_o with_o the_o worst_a sort_n of_o vile_a sinner_n or_o with_o such_o as_o be_v like_a to_o themselves_o or_o with_o the_o saint_n in_o their_o gross_a fail_n not_o judge_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o law_n the_o use_n to_o be_v make_v of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v first_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o that_o power_n of_o the_o soul_n call_v conscience_n which_o god_n have_v put_v in_o every_o man_n to_o observe_v all_o the_o man_n word_n deed_n and_o intention_n and_o to_o compare_v they_o with_o the_o law_n and_o will_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v inform_v and_o to_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v condemn_v or_o absolve_v smite_v or_o comfort_v the_o man_n as_o it_o find_v cause_n that_o we_o suffer_v not_o our_o own_o conscience_n to_o sleep_v but_o set_v it_o on_o work_n whilst_o it_o be_v time_n that_o we_o may_v know_v how_o
for_o remove_v of_o our_o guiltiness_n and_o save_v we_o from_o condemnation_n but_o also_o have_v undertake_v to_o the_o father_n to_o write_v his_o law_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o at_o last_o to_o present_v we_o perfect_a without_o spot_n or_o blemish_n for_o which_o end_n he_o have_v take_v by_o appointment_n the_o threefold_a office_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n three_o it_o import_v that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o this_o rich_a gift_n and_o right_n intimate_fw-la unto_o we_o judicial_o from_o god_n and_o whatsoever_o command_v duty_n we_o be_v to_o go_v about_o we_o do_v it_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n suck_v by_o faith_n sap_n and_o virtue_n from_o he_o to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n holy_a and_o acceptable_a to_o god_n through_o he_o because_o christ_n the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o godhead_n incarnate_a be_v make_v unto_o we_o and_o judicial_o intimate_fw-la from_o god_n to_o we_o our_o sanctification_n the_o four_o sentence_n be_v this_o christ_n be_v make_v of_o god_n unto_o we_o redemption_n which_o import_v first_o that_o we_o who_o have_v flee_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n unto_o christ_n and_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n and_o begin_v to_o be_v sanctify_v be_v yoke_v in_o a_o warfare_n with_o our_o sinful_a flesh_n the_o world_n and_o satan_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o misery_n in_o this_o life_n and_o to_o death_n natural_a and_o the_o grave_n in_o which_o warfare_n we_o be_v not_o of_o ourselves_o able_a to_o stand_v nor_o to_o deliver_v ourselves_o from_o the_o misery_n whereunto_o we_o be_v subject_a except_o by_o divine_a power_n we_o be_v support_v bring_v through_o and_o save_v second_o it_o import_v that_o christ_n not_o only_o have_v pay_v a_o satisfactory_a price_n for_o our_o redemption_n and_o be_v able_a to_o deliver_v we_o from_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n against_o the_o power_n of_o whatsoever_o adversary_n but_o also_o that_o he_o have_v undertake_v the_o work_n and_o have_v by_o compact_n with_o the_o father_n oblige_v himself_o to_o deliver_v we_o powerful_o from_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o to_o overcome_v to_o our_o behoove_v all_o our_o enemy_n and_o tread_v they_o underfoot_o and_o that_o he_o be_v judicial_o establish_v in_o his_o kingly_a office_n and_o make_v over_o to_o we_o for_o our_o assurance_n by_o decreet_a intimate_fw-la to_o we_o three_o it_o import_v our_o duty_n that_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o right_n and_o gift_n of_o christ_n god-man_n make_v over_o unto_o we_o by_o god_n decreet_a now_o intimate_fw-la we_o shall_v rely_v by_o faith_n on_o he_o as_o the_o pledge_n of_o perfect_v our_o salvation_n thorough_o and_o fight_v out_o our_o battle_n against_o all_o adversar_n power_n and_o all_o misery_n in_o his_o strength_n rejoice_v in_o his_o victory_n over_o all_o our_o enemy_n for_o god_n have_v make_v he_o unto_o u●_n redemption_n chap._n ii_o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o feel_a unworthiness_n be_v answer_v these_o premise_a consideration_n may_v serve_v for_o the_o more_o easy_a solution_n of_o doubt_n and_o particular_a case_n wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n may_v be_v trouble_v about_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n for_o which_o end_n it_o be_v needful_a also_o by_o way_n of_o example_n to_o propound_v some_o usual_a question_n in_o particular_a the_o answer_v whereof_o may_v serve_v to_o answer_v all_o question_n which_o do_v arise_v from_o the_o like_a original_n for_o 1._o howsoever_o it_o be_v certain_a from_o scripture_n that_o the_o regenerate_a shall_v no●_n pe●ish_v and_o that_o their_o state_n in_o grace_n be_v unchangeable_a and_o that_o their_o perseverance_n in_o the_o faith_n be_v establish_v by_o christ_n undertake_v to_o make_v they_o persevere_v according_a to_o the_o charge_n give_v unto_o he_o from_o the_o f●ther_n joh._n 6._o 39_o 40._o yet_o it_o i●_n true_a also_o that_o every_o regenerate_a man_n be_v no●_n clear_a about_o his_o regeneration_n and_o many_o regenerate_a person_n have_v only_o a_o conjectural_a opinion_n that_o they_o be_v regenerate_v who_o be_v not_o come_v up_o as_o yet_o to_o a_o assurance_n and_o persuasion_n of_o their_o bless_a estate_n and_o the_o number_n be_v not_o great_a of_o these_o who_o always_o or_o any_o long_a time_n together_o do_v enjoy_v that_o serenity_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n that_o they_o can_v confident_o triumph_v and_o glory_n with_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 5._o 3_o 4._o 5._o because_o of_o desertion_n and_o tentation_n raise_v doubt_n in_o their_o conscience_n concern_v their_o estate_n ofttimes_o holy_a person_n be_v disquiet_v with_o such_o person_n while_o they_o be_v in_o that_o case_n a_o pastor_n or_o a_o prudent_a friend_n must_v deal_v so_o as_o he_o will_v deal_v with_o the_o infirm_a and_o with_o they_o who_o think_v themselves_o not_o convert_v because_o the_o same_o remedy_n will_v serve_v to_o strengthen_v a_o weak_a believer_n and_o to_o draw_v a_o soul_n sensible_a of_o sin_n and_o under_o the_o pang_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n unto_o faith_n in_o christ._n 2._o but_o let_v we_o come_v more_o particular_o to_o examine_v the_o doubt_n of_o some_o that_o be_v regenerate_v and_o their_o pretend_a reason_n for_o their_o doubt_n some_o be_v so_o sensible_a of_o their_o own_o unworthiness_n that_o they_o question_v if_o themselves_o or_o any_o like_a unto_o themselves_o can_v be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n mean_v time_n their_o carriage_n be_v such_o a_o become_v a_o christian_n blameless_a i_o feel_v in_o 〈◊〉_d say_v ou●_n such_o strength_n of_o inward_a corruption_n as_o do_v defile_v every_o best_a action_n i_o go_v about_o i_o see_v what_o holiness_n be_v require_v in_o tho●e_n that_o approach_v unto_o god_n that_o i_o do_v utter_o loathe_v myself_o as_o unworthy_a to_o be_v admit_v into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o god_n or_o christ_n the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n yea_o say_v another_o i_o think_v it_o no_o small_a presumption_n to_o draw_v near_o unto_o christ_n or_o count_v myself_o among_o his_o saint_n and_o follower_n this_o for_o a_o short_a time_n be_v the_o case_n of_o isaiah_n when_o in_o a_o vision_n he_o see_v the_o glory_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o hear_v the_o seraphim_n proclaim_v he_o th●ee_o holy_a isa._n 6._o 5._o woe_n be_v i_o say_v he_o for_o i_o be_o undo_v because_o i_o be_o a_o man_n of_o unclean_a lip_n and_o i_o dwell_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o people_n of_o unclean_a lip_n for_o my_o eye_n have_v see_v the_o king_n the_o lord_n of_o host_n this_o also_o be_v the_o case_n of_o pe●er_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n waken_v up_o by_o the_o shine_a of_o the_o glory_n of_o christ_n godhead_n in_o the_o miraculous_a tack_n of_o fish●s_n luk._n 5_o 8._o fall_v down_o at_o christ_n knee_n he_o cry_v depart_v from_o i_o o_o lord_n for_o i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n which_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o be_o utter_o unworthy_a to_o be_v admit_v unto_o fellowship_n with_o thy_o holy_a majesty_n the_o like_a also_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o publican_n in_o the_o parable_n luk._n 18._o 13._o out_o of_o which_o case_n after_o some_o wrestle_n of_o say_v he_o come_v forth_o towards_o god_n yet_o stand_v a_o far_o off_o nor_o dare_v to_o life_n up_o hi●_n eye_n to_o heaven_n wherein_o be_v point_v out_o to_o we_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o unworthiness_n hinder_v he_o to_o approach_v confident_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n 3._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o doubt_n five_o or_o six_o consideration_n may_v be_v represent_v to_o the_o party_n afflict_v with_o this_o proviso_n that_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o unworthiness_n be_v not_o discharge_v or_o diminish_v but_o wise_o entertain_v in_o he_o rather_o for_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v presuppose_v that_o any_o man_n can_v esteem_v himself_o so_o unworthy_a and_o far_o from_o merit_v any_o good_a at_o god_n hand_n as_o he_o be_v indeed_o but_o yet_o his_o doubt_n how_o he_o dare_v or_o may_v draw_v near_o unto_o christ_n because_o of_o his_o feel_a unworthiness_n may_v be_v solve_v 1._o if_o he_o consider_v the_o nature_n and_o offer_v make_v of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n whereby_o these_o that_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o own_o unworthiness_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v debar_v from_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n do_v not_o admit_v any_o person_n to_o be_v receive_v into_o it_o but_o such_o only_a who_o do_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n and_o worthiness_n and_o do_v fly_v unto_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o our_o lord_n have_v say_v mat._n 9_o 13._o i_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o
sinner_n to_o repentance_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o evangel_n be_v make_v to_o the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n to_o the_o hungry_a and_o thirsty_a for_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n which_o only_o can_v satisfy_v a_o hungry_a soul_n mat._n 5._o 3_o 6._o yea_o the_o sense_n of_o unworthiness_n be_v in_o effect_n that_o self-loathing_a whereof_o ezek._n speak_v chap._n 36._o 31._o which_o sense_n of_o unworthiness_n may_v be_v see_v in_o job_n as_o a_o special_a act_n and_o evidence_n of_o his_o repentance_n job._n 42._o 6._o second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o because_o by_o reason_n of_o sin_n no_o worthiness_n can_v be_v find_v in_o we_o therefore_o god_n have_v free_o love_v the_o world_n and_o provide_v grace_n in_o christ_n that_o all_o that_o fly_v to_o he_o may_v out_o of_o his_o fullness_n receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n joh._n 1._o 16._o three_o the_o three_o sell_v office_n of_o a_o mediator_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v clothe_v himself_o do_v obviate_v and_o meet_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o humble_a soul_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o unworthiness_n for_o albeit_o he_o be_v ignorant_a and_o slow_a to_o understand_v and_o believe_v the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n about_o man_n salvation_n and_o his_o prescribe_a service_n yet_o upon_o 〈◊〉_d fly_v to_o christ_n he_o have_v christ_n offer_v and_o give_v to_o he_o for_o his_o wisdom_n a_o prophet_n able_a to_o inform_v he_o to_o open_v his_o eye_n and_o persuade_v he_o to_o embrace_v by_o lively_a faith_n all_o save_a doctrine_n albeit_o he_o be_v exceed_o sinful_a and_o worthy_a of_o condemnation_n yet_o he_o have_v christ_n a●_n priest_n make_v of_o god_n unto_o he_o righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n upon_o his_o fly_v to_o he_o for_o refute_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n undertake_v also_o powerful_o to_o sanctify_v he_o by_o mortify_v his_o corruption_n and_o perfect_v at_o last_o the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o albeit_o he_o have_v the_o world_n and_o his_o own_o flesh_n and_o the_o power_n of_o all_o principality_n and_o spiritual_a wickedness_n with_o many_o misery_n in_o this_o life_n to_o wrestle_v with_o yet_o he_o have_v christ_n jesus_n as_o king_n make_v of_o god_n unto_o he_o redemption_n upon_o his_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n against_o all_o his_o enemy_n so_o that_o he_o may_v be_v sure_a to_o be_v find_v among_o they_o who_o he_o have_v redeem_v by_o price-paying_a and_o for_o who_o he_o have_v undertake_v powerful_o to_o sustain_v they_o in_o all_o this_o warfare_n whatsoever_o misery_n they_o may_v be_v in_o and_o at_o last_o to_o bring_v they_o out_o of_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n to_o a_o perfect_a rest_n in_o everlasting_a glory_n and_o to_o what_o end_n have_v our_o lord_n take_v on_o the_o office_n of_o a_o mediator_n and_o redeemer_n if_o not_o to_o open_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o blind_a that_o fly_n to_o he_o for_o eyesalve_n to_o cover_v the_o naked_a fly_v unto_o he_o with_o the_o precious_a garment_n of_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n and_o to_o enrich_v the_o poor_a needy_a and_o unworthy_a out_o of_o the_o store_n house_n of_o his_o unsearchable_a riches_n of_o grace_n rev._n 3._o 18._o four_o let_v he_o consider_v the_o constant_a course_n of_o grace_n and_o practical_a dispensation_n thereof_o in_o all_o age_n towards_o all_o the_o convert_v be_v not_o all_o they_o to_o who_o the_o gospel_n come_v in_o the_o state_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n when_o god_n come_v to_o convert_v they_o for_o never_o be_v there_o any_o person_n call_v unto_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n but_o he_o be_v find_v in_o his_o sin_n and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o lose_a sinner_n by_o nature_n none_o but_o child_n of_o wrath_n and_o enemy_n by_o nature_n be_v reconcile_v none_o but_o they_o who_o by_o the_o law_n be_v condemn_v be_v justify_v none_o but_o they_o that_o in_o their_o own_o sense_n be_v lose_v do_v obtain_v salvation_n for_o christ_n do_v plain_o tell_v we_o i_o come_v to_o seek_v and_o to_o save_v they_o that_o be_v lose_v do_v he_o ever_o reject_v any_o that_o flee_v unto_o he_o because_o they_o be_v unworthy_a no_o for_o it_o be_v say_v ps._n 9_o 10._o they_o that_o know_v thy_o name_n will_v trust_v in_o thou_o for_o thou_o never_o forsake_v they_o that_o seek_v thou_o and_o joh._n 6_o 37._o he_o say_v these_o that_o come_v unto_o i_o i_o will_v in_o no_o case_n cast_v out_o 2_o tim._n 1._o 9_o not_o according_a to_o our_o work_n but_o according_a to_o his_o own_o purpose_n and_o 〈◊〉_d have_v he_o call_v we_o five_o let_v he_o consider_v the_o worthiness_n of_o christ_n person_n and_o merit_n who_o because_o he_o be_v god_n and_o man_n in_o one_o person_n have_v pay_v a_o price_n of_o infinite_a value_n for_o redemption_n of_o sinner_n who_o fly_v unto_o he_o be_v worthy_a for_o who_o cause_n the_o unworthy_a sinner_n fly_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v receive_v in_o favour_n and_o make_v fit_a for_o eternal_a life_n by_o the_o sanctification_n of_o his_o spirit_n six_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o if_o he_o stand_v a-back_a from_o christ_n and_o do_v not_o fly_v unto_o he_o how_o unworthy_a soever_o he_o think_v himself_o he_o remain_v under_o wrath_n and_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o the_o law_n joh._n 1._o 8._o but_o let_v he_o rather_o remember_v that_o he_o be_v warrant_v by_o a_o command_n of_o god_n the_o father_n to_o fly_v to_o christ_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o this_o be_v his_o commandment_n that_o we_o shall_v believe_v on_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o love_v one_o another_o as_o he_o have_v command_v we_o and_o therefore_o let_v he_o say_v of_o his_o own_o soul_n with_o th●_n centurion_n speak_v of_o his_o servant_n to_o christ_n luke_o 7._o 6_o 7._o i_o be_o not_o worthy_a that_o thou_o shall_v come_v under_o my_o roof_n but_o say_v the_o word_n and_o my_o servant_n shall_v be_v heal_v the_o word_n be_v say_v frequent_o in_o scripture_n let_v the_o afflict_a rest_n himself_o on_o it_o chap._n iii_o wherein_o the_o regener_v at_o man_n doubt_n arise_v from_o the_o multitude_n and_o weight_n of_o his_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n and_o the_o cospel_n and_o against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o conscience_n be_v answer_v as_o in_o the_o pang_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n this_o doubt_n have_v much_o weight_n to_o keep_v a_o soul_n a-back_a from_o imb●●●eing_v christ_n and_o receive_v pardon_n through_o he_o so_o after_o a_o man_n be_v regenerate_v and_o make_v quiet_a in_o his_o conscience_n when_o through_o sad_a affliction_n and_o sore_a temptation_n these_o wound_n of_o his_o conscience_n begin_v to_o bleed_v again_o his_o pardon_n and_o peace_n be_v call_v in_o question_n of_o this_o exercise_n there_o be_v three_o degree_n the_o first_o be_v when_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n be_v muster_v and_o lead_v in_o a_o host_n against_o a_o soul_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o afflict_a psalmist_n for_o a_o time_n till_o by_o faith_n he_o over-came_a the_o doubt_n ps._n 40._o 12._o innumerable_a evil_n have_v compass_v i_o about_o my_o iniquity_n have_v take_v hold_v on_o i_o so_o that_o i_o be_o not_o able_a to_o look_v up_o they_o be_v more_o than_o the_o hair_n of_o my_o head_n therefore_o my_o heart_n fail_v i_o the_o second_o degree_n be_v when_o beside_o the_o man_n sin_n against_o the_o law_n his_o sin_n also_o against_o the_o gospel_n against_o christ_n and_o the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n do_v arise_v in_o battle_n against_o he_o and_o do_v drive_v he_o to_o cry_v out_o with_o these_o not_o yet_o convert_v sinner_n act._n 2._o 37._o man_n and_o brethren_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v the_o three_o degree_n be_v when_o the_o regenerate_a man_n for_o some_o gross_a sin_n against_o the_o light_n of_o his_o conscience_n be_v give_v up_o for_o a_o time_n to_o be_v scourge_v with_o the_o temptation_n and_o accusation_n of_o satan_n as_o if_o he_o have_v sin_v against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o no_o more_o mercy_n be_v reserve_v for_o he_o and_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o prophet_n jonah_n when_o be_v guilty_a and_o conscious_a to_o his_o late_a rebellion_n against_o god_n he_o be_v pursue_v and_o apprehend_v by_o god_n and_o casten_z in_o the_o sea_n he_o fall_v in_o a_o ●it_n of_o desperation_n till_o god_n give_v he_o victory_n by_o faith_n jon._n 2._o 4._o then_o i_o say_v i_o be_o cast_v out_o of_o thy_o sight_n yet_o i_o will_v look_v again_o to_o thy_o holy_a temple_n which_o be_v the_o try_a place_n of_o god_n with_o sinner_n in_o a_o mediator_n this_o be_v also_o the_o case_n of_o david_n for_o a_o time_n after_o that_o his_o conscience_n be_v waken_v by_o the_o message_n of_o god_n send_v unto_o he_o in_o the_o mouth_n of_o nathan_n the_o prophet_n when_o he_o
lord_n may_v take_v the_o penitent_a in_o his_o fatherly_a embracement_n and_o comfort_v he_o abundant_o mean_a time_n till_o the_o sensible_a comfort_n be_v give_v unto_o he_o let_v he_o hold_v fast_o the_o promise_n make_v to_o they_o that_o fly_v unto_o christ._n chap._n iu._n wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n raise_v by_o his_o suspicion_n whether_o he_o be_v elect_v or_o not_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v sometime_o that_o a_o sinner_n lament_v his_o sin_n and_o seek_v liberation_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n do_v call_v in_o question_n whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o have_v a_o deep_a and_o fix_a suspicion_n that_o he_o shall_v possible_o be_v ●ound_v not_o among_o the_o elect_n and_o by_o consequence_n be_v find_v a_o reprobat_fw-la of_o who_o if_o you_o ask_v a_o reason_n why_o he_o say_v so_o he_o can_v give_v no_o solid_a answer_n only_o he_o will_v tell_v you_o he_o can_v perceive_v no_o certain_a sign_n and_o evidence_n of_o his_o election_n yea_o that_o he_o find_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o that_o which_o may_v be_v find_v in_o reprobat_n and_o that_o he_o be_v afraid_a he_o be_v find_v one_o of_o that_o number_n and_o that_o this_o suspicion_n have_v take_v deep_a root_n in_o he_o that_o he_o can_v rid_v himself_o of_o this_o doubt_n and_o fear_n 2._o this_o case_n we_o must_v confess_v be_v very_o dangerous_a except_o it_o be_v timous_o cu●ed_v for_o here_o faith_n be_v take_v as_o it_o be_v by_o the_o throat_n and_o the_o ground_n of_o hope_n be_v like_a to_o be_v raze_v the_o suspicion_n of_o god_n decree_n be_v daily_o foster_v and_o augment_v and_o the_o afflict_a person_n not_o only_o doubt_v of_o god_n goodwill_n to_o he_o but_o be_v tempt_v unto_o desperation_n by_o this_o mean_v the_o command_n of_o god_n to_o believe_v the_o promise_n and_o consolation_n of_o the_o gospel_n seem_v to_o he_o to_o be_v offer_v to_o he_o all_o in_o vain_a the_o hope_n of_o success_n or_o profit_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v by_o god_n be_v undermine_v so_o long_o as_o this_o suspicion_n be_v entertain_v yea_o all_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n become_v burdensome_a out_o of_o a_o fear_n he_o shall_v follow_v the_o exercise_n thereof_o to_o no_o purpose_n and_o so_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n be_v ofttimes_o leave_v undo_v or_o cast_v off_o for_o a_o time_n if_o the_o tentation_n grow_v strong_a and_o continue_v with_o he_o without_o cure_n or_o comfort_n thus_o he_o stand_v upon_o the_o border_n and_o precipice_n of_o some_o sort_n of_o desperation_n if_o his_o fear_n and_o suspicion_n be_v not_o remove_v in_o some_o measure_n 3._o for_o cure_v of_o this_o case_n the_o pastor_n or_o prudent_a friend_n as_o in_o all_o his_o conference_n with_o the_o afflict_a so_o here_o in_o special_a must_v serious_o pray_v to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v bless_v the_o mean_n of_o information_n and_o consolation_n which_o he_o be_v about_o to_o use_v for_o the_o satisfy_n of_o the_o afflict_a to_o this_o end_n therefore_o first_o let_v all_o the_o reason_n whereby_o the_o afflict_a pretend_v to_o make_v his_o reprobation_n probable_a be_v resume_v and_o refute_v as_o frivolous_a all_o of_o they_o and_o certain_o they_o can_v but_o be_v find_v frivolous_a because_o god_n have_v not_o give_v any_o certain_a evidence_n or_o sign_n of_o reprobation_n so_o long_o as_o a_o man_n be_v alive_a except_o that_o sin_n unto_o death_n the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o a_o malicious_a refuse_v reject_v and_o hostile_a oppose_v of_o jesus_n christ_n witting_o and_o willing_o for_o as_o to_o final_a unbelief_n and_o impenitency_n no_o man_n can_v pass_v sentence_n upon_o any_o person_n that_o have_v hear_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o gospel_n so_o long_o as_o breath_n be_v in_o he_o for_o god_n can_v convert_v a_o soul_n to_o himself_o in_o the_o pang_n of_o imminent_a death_n as_o he_o do_v the_o thief_n on_o the_o cross_n all_o the_o evil_n which_o the_o afflict_a can_v say_v of_o himself_o can_v prove_v he_o a_o reprobat_fw-la the_o height_n which_o his_o reckon_n can_v rise_v unto_o to_o fortify_v his_o own_o suspicion_n of_o himself_o be_v only_o to_o give_v appearance_n that_o he_o be_v 〈◊〉_d regenerate_v mean_v time_n we_o presuppone_v the_o afflict_a person_n under_o this_o tentation_n to_o labour_v under_o the_o sense_n of_o manifold_a sin_n which_o do_v furnish_v strength_n unto_o the_o tentation_n and_o to_o be_v hungry_a and_o thirsty_a for_o righteousness_n and_o to_o be_v desirous_a to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n in_o christ_n if_o he_o can_v be_v deliver_v of_o his_o suspicion_n of_o god_n purpose_n and_o affection_n towards_o he_o and_o therefore_o his_o christian_n friend_n be_v bind_v in_o charity_n to_o expound_v this_o his_o hunger_n for_o righteousness_n and_o thirsty_a desire_n of_o reconciliation_n through_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o begin_v work_n of_o gracious_a regeneration_n and_o so_o also_o a_o hopeful_a sign_n that_o he_o be_v elect_v second_o after_o refutation_n of_o his_o pretend_a reason_n for_o his_o suspicion_n and_o fear_n this_o suspicion_n must_v be_v set_v before_o he_o as_o a_o strong_a tentation_n of_o satan_n and_o a_o soul-murthering_a lie_n throw_v as_o a_o fiery_a dart_n at_o he_o such_o as_o the_o apostle_n ephes._n 6._o make_v mention_n of_o of_o set_a purpose_n to_o beat_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n out_o of_o his_o hand_n wherefore_o he_o must_v be_v exhort_v to_o resist_v the_o tempter_n and_o that_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o satan_n out_o of_o envy_n and_o malice_n do_v slander_n god_n and_o the_o begin_v work_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o man_n and_o all_o to_o vex_v the_o soul_n of_o he_o who_o he_o can_v keep_v in_o his_o snare_n three_o the_o give_v so_o much_o way_n to_o this_o wicked_a suggestion_n must_v be_v represent_v to_o the_o patient_a as_o a_o act_n of_o ignorance_n and_o folly_n yea_o a_o act_n of_o iniquity_n and_o injury_n unto_o god_n and_o to_o his_o own_o soul_n for_o what_o a_o madness_n be_v it_o to_o pry_v in_o upon_o the_o secret_a counsel_n of_o god_n and_o to_o neglect_v his_o reveal_v will_v set_v down_o in_o scripture_n what_o presumption_n to_o intrude_v ourselves_o upon_o his_o secret_a decree_n and_o to_o cast_v behind_o our_o back_n his_o open_a command_n give_v to_o we_o to_o refuse_v obedience_n to_o god_n ordinance_n give_v to_o we_o for_o our_o salvation_n except_o he_o shall_v first●●ll_v we_o what_o be_v his_o purpose_n about_o we_o in_o particular_a to_o open_v our_o ear_n to_o the_o false_a suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n a_o liar_n and_o murderer_n from_o the_o beginning_n and_o stop_v ou●_n ear_n from_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o we_o in_o scripture_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a under_o this_o temptation_n take_v heed_n to_o what_o be_v say_v de●t_n 29._o 29._o the_o secret_a thing_n belong_v unto_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n but_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v reveal_v belong_v u●to_o we_o and_o our_o child_n for_o ever_o that_o we_o may_v do_v all_o the_o word_n of_o this_o law_n let_v the_o lord_n command_v be_v first_o obey_v and_o then_o the_o decree_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o believer_n in_o he_o shall_v be_v timeous_o reveal_v for_o his_o promise_n be_v agreeable_a with_o his_o decree_n and_o his_o promise_n be_v offer_v to_o we_o that_o thereby_o his_o decree_n may_v be_v bring_v on_o unto_o a_o just_a and_o gracious_a execution_n four_o let_v the_o afflict_a call_n to_o mind_n what_o benefit_n the_o lord_n have_v bestow_v upon_o he_o from_o his_o infancy_n and_o in_o special_a that_o he_o have_v offer_v and_o do_v continue_v to_o offer_v christ_n jesus_n unto_o he_o if_o he_o will_v receive_v he_o for_o wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n and_o upon_o this_o ground_n he_o be_v bind_v to_o give_v unto_o god_n a_o good_a construction_n in_o every_o sort_n of_o dispensation_n towards_o he_o and_o look_v upon_o god_n as_o his_o friend_n and_o father_n chap._n v._n wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_a of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o find_v no_o power_n in_o himself_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v answer_v sometime_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o renew_a man_n after_o a_o long_a time_n stand_v in_o the_o stare_n of_o grace_n fall_v in_o doubt_n about_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o because_o when_o god_n do_v change_v his_o dispensation_n towards_o he_o and_o bring_v he_o to_o trial_n by_o trouble_n wherein_o he_o be_v find_v weak_a than_o he_o expect_v he_o begin_v to_o suspect_v whether_o the_o former_a work_n of_o grace_n have_v be_v find_v or_o not_o and_o his_o reason_n be_v because_o he_o find_v by_o experience_n often_o repeat_v that_o in_o strait_n and_o difficulty_n when_o he_o
will_v most_o exercise_v faith_n and_o believe_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v find_v least_o able_a to_o do_v it_o yea_o he_o find_v it_o no_o less_o impossible_a to_o observe_v the_o whole_a moral_a law_n then_o solid_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n hence_o arise_v anxiety_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o afflict_a while_o he_o neither_o there_fw-mi depart_v from_o christ_n nor_o yet_o be_v able_a to_o approach_v unto_o he_o confident_o in_o this_o case_n many_o new_a doubt_n and_o temptation_n do_v arise_v which_o weaken_v his_o faith_n yet_o more_o and_o hinder_v he_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o discharge_n of_o duty_n not_o a_o little_a that_o this_o sometime_o may_v be_v the_o case_n of_o some_o convert_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o saint_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n make_v evident_a ps._n 30._o 7._o lord_n say_v david_n by_o thy_o favour_n thou_o have_v make_v my_o mountain_n to_o stand_v strong_a thou_o do_v hide_v thy_o face_n and_o i_o be_v trouble_v and_o in_o his_o prayer_n ps._n 61._o 2._o while_o his_o mind_n be_v overwhelm_v in_o he_o with_o perplex_v thought_n he_o find_v in_o himself_o no_o strength_n or_o ability_n to_o deliver_v himself_o or_o put_v forth_o act_n of_o faith_n on_o the_o mediator_n as_o he_o will_v have_v do_v but_o pray_v that_o while_o he_o be_v now_o exile_v and_o drive_v far_o off_o from_o the_o tabernacle_n and_o ark_n of_o the_o covenant_n he_o may_v be_v raise_v up_o to_o believe_v in_o he_o who_o be_v signify_v by_o these_o tip_n to_o wit_n christ_n the_o rock_n of_o all_o salvation_n which_o rock_n of_o salvation_n he_o perceive_v to_o be_v a_o high_a mystery_n than_o he_o can_v discover_v or_o ascend_v upon_o without_o the_o hand_n of_o divine_a power_n and_o therefore_o say_v from_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n will_v i_o cry_v unto_o thou_o when_o my_o heart_n be_v overwhelm_v lead_v i_o to_o the_o rock_n that_o be_v high_a than_o i._n yea_o the_o godly_a afflict_a hebrew_n fall_v in_o this_o sickness_n who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o take_v courage_n unto_o they_o heb._n 12._o 12_o 13._o wherefore_o lift_v up_o your_o hand_n which_o hang_v down_o and_o the_o feeble_a knee_n and_o make_v straight_a path_n for_o your_o foot_n 2._o for_o answer_v of_o this_o doubt_n the_o afflict_a person_n must_v be_v convince_v of_o his_o infirmity_n and_o sinful_a dissidence_n because_o be_v call_v of_o god_n to_o the_o exercise_n and_o trial_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n by_o whatsoever_o sort_n of_o trouble_n he_o have_v be_v discourage_v and_o faint_v which_o do_v not_o become_v a_o soldier_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o for_o no_o other_o pretend_a reason_n but_o this_o that_o he_o can_v not_o give_v such_o a_o proof_n of_o his_o faith_n as_o he_o shall_v have_v give_v and_o hope_v to_o give_v before_o he_o be_v put_v to_o trial_n second_o he_o must_v consider_v how_o far_o he_o be_v mistake_v in_o lean_v to_o his_o own_o strength_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n of_o which_o self-confidence_n the_o more_o a_o man_n be_v empty_v the_o more_o speedy_o he_o shall_v be_v furnish_v if_o be_v empty_v he_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o supply_v this_o be_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 9_o 10._o who_o be_v make_v weak_a in_o himself_o that_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n may_v be_v make_v perfect_a in_o his_o weakness_n and_o therefore_o he_o resolve_v to_o make_v use_n of_o the_o strength_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o feel_a infirmity_n and_o that_o he_o do_v with_o good_a success_n for_o when_o i_o be_o weak_a say_v he_o then_o be_o i_o strong_a who_o example_n we_o must_v resolve_v to_o follow_v three_o after_o search_v it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o the_o person_n afflict_v under_o the_o notion_n and_o expression_n of_o i_o can_v believe_v have_v in_o effect_n this_o meaning_n i_o can_v find_v such_o a_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n as_o i_o will_v be_v at_o or_o i_o can_v find_v such_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o approbation_n of_o my_o ●aiah_o as_o can_v satisfy_v i_o and_o persuade_v i_o that_o i_o do_v believe_v real_o in_o christ._n and_o so_o it_o be_v another_o thing_n and_o another_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n he_o be_v seek_v than_o what_o he_o pretend_v to_o seek_v for_o the_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o approven_v faith_n and_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n be_v not_o give_v to_o every_o believer_n but_o to_o he_o that_o sight_n the_o fight_n of_o faith_n and_o in_o his_o trial_n adher_v close_o to_o christ_n and_o to_o his_o truth_n when_o he_o be_v tempt_v to_o sin_n as_o the_o clause_n in_o the_o close_a of_o the_o seven_o epistle_n to_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n do_v teach_v we_o rev._n 2._o 3._o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v i_o will_v give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n to_o eat_v of_o that_o hide_a manna_n i_o will_v give_v he_o that_o white_a stone_n and_o a_o new_a name_n write_v thereon_o which_o no_o man_n know_v save_v he_o that_o receive_v it_o four_o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v instruct_v or_o put_v in_o mind_n to_o distinguish_v between_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o the_o know_v that_o he_o do_v believe_v in_o christ_n as_o may_v be_v learn_v from_o 1_o joh._n 5._o 13._o these_o thing_n i_o write_v to_o you_o that_o believe_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n that_o you_o may_v know_v that_o you_o have_v eternal_a life_n and_o that_o you_o may_v believe_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n he_o must_v distinguish_v between_o true_a though_o weak_a say_v faith_n and_o strong_a faith_n true_a save_a faith_n be_v in_o that_o person_n who_o be_v pursue_v by_o the_o law_n do_v fly_v for_o refuge_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o christ_n the_o hope_n set_v before_o we_o the_o man_n that_o dwell_v in_o this_o city_n of_o christ_n and_o make_v use_v of_o christ_n as_o the_o only_a remedy_n against_o sin_n and_o misery_n as_o he_o be_v offer_v to_o we_o in_o the_o gospel_n have_v right_o unto_o that_o strong_a and_o well-grounded_n consolation_n speak_v of_o heb._n 6._o 17_o 18_o 19_o true_a and_o save_a faith_n be_v in_o that_o person_n who_o acknowledge_v himself_o a_o child_n of_o wrath_n hearty_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o offer_v himself_o to_o we_o in_o the_o gospel_n for_o such_o a_o person_n have_v the_o right_a and_o privilege_n of_o a_o child_n of_o god_n and_o may_v reckon_v himself_o among_o believer_n in_o christ_n joh._n 1._o 12._o as_o many_o as_o receive_v christ_n to_o they_o give_v he_o power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n even_o to_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n true_a and_o save_a faith_n be_v in_o that_o person_n who_o be_v convince_v of_o his_o enimity_n against_o god_n do_v answer_v the_o request_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o his_o minister_n with_o a_o hearty_a consent_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n offer_v to_o all_o that_o hear_v the_o gospel_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 19_o 20._o god_n be_v in_o christ_n reconcile_a the_o world_n unto_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o trespass_n unto_o they_o and_o have_v commit_v unto_o we_o the_o word_n of_o reconciliateon_n now_o then_o we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v you_o in_o christ_n stead_n be_v you_o reconcile_v unto_o god_n for_o he_o have_v make_v he_o that_o be_v christ_n to_o be_v sin_n for_o we_o who_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a answer_n thus_o i_o receive_v the_o offer_n and_o do_v consent_n upon_o these_o term_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n lord_n help_v my_o unbelief_n for_o thou_o have_v say_v seek_v you_o my_o face_n and_o my_o soul_n answer_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n will_v i_o seek_v hide_v not_o thy_o face_n from_o i_o ps._n 27._o 8_o 9_o he_o that_o upon_o these_o term_n do_v fly_v to_o christ_n and_o resolve_v to_o adhere_v unto_o he_o need_v not_o doubt_v but_o he_o be_v receive_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n for_o confirmation_n whereof_o let_v the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n outward_a and_o inward_a which_o may_v be_v observe_v by_o the_o afflict_a himself_o or_o by_o his_o comforter_n be_v call_v to_o mind_n and_o let_v he_o rest_v and_o go_v on_o in_o the_o course_n of_o obedience_n of_o the_o gospel_n chap._n vi_o wherein_o the_o doubt_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n concern_v his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o apprehend_a defect_n of_o humiliation_n and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n be_v answer_v some_o regenerate_a person_n will_v be_v find_v who_o mourn_v indeed_o for_o their_o sin_n and_o
sense_n of_o sin_n begin_v in_o the_o afflict_a by_o god_n mercy_n and_o that_o the_o afflict_v can_v now_o be_v hinder_v from_o repentance_n nor_o be_v keep_v in_o his_o former_a snare_n do_v change_v himself_o as_o if_o he_o be_v a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o set_v all_o at_o nought_o the_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n which_o the_o afflict_a have_v already_o and_o show_v unto_o he_o how_o unanswerable_a the_o proportion_n of_o his_o sorrow_n be_v unto_o the_o multitude_n and_o heinousness_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o so_o spur_v he_o on_o to_o mourn_v more_o and_o more_o that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a he_o may_v distemper_v and_o distract_v he_o or_o make_v he_o pine_v away_o and_o perish_v in_o his_o sorrow_n without_o faith_n or_o consolation_n in_o christ_n this_o be_v one_o evil_a another_o evil_n be_v this_o the_o affectation_n of_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o sorrow_n smell_v of_o seek_v some_o sort_n of_o expiation_n of_o sin_n and_o compensation_n of_o the_o pleasure_n take_v in_o sin_n by_o suitable_a sorrow_n for_o it_o unto_o which_o practical_a error_n we_o be_v by_o nature_n too_o too_o prone_a for_o as_o by_o nature_n we_o strive_v to_o be_v justify_v by_o work_n according_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n write_v in_o the_o child_n of_o adam_n so_o when_o we_o see_v ourselves_o come_v short_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o work_n we_o go_v about_o as_o be_v to_o be_v see_v in_o papist_n to_o supply_v the_o defect_n of_o work_n by_o some_o one_o sort_n or_o other_o of_o our_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n for_o sin_n in_o special_a that_o by_o sorrow_n and_o tear_n in_o abundance_n we_o may_v wash_v away_o the_o guilt_n and_o pollution_n we_o have_v contract_v by_o sin_n and_o in_o this_o course_n we_o run_v on_o natural_o after_o waken_n of_o the_o conscience_n to_o exact_a penance_n and_o punishment_n on_o ourselves_o till_o the_o delude_a heart_n say_v it_o be_v enough_o and_o then_o as_o if_o all_o be_v well_o the_o deceive_a sinner_n rest_v himself_o which_o deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n the_o often_o it_o have_v place_n and_o prevail_v without_o be_v observe_v it_o be_v the_o more_o dangerous_a a_o three_o evil_a follow_v on_o this_o practical_a error_n be_v by_o it_o the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o merit_n of_o christ_n be_v great_o obscure_v and_o both_o the_o man_n consolation_n and_o sanctification_n be_v mar_v the_o loss_n that_o the_o afflict_a sustain_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o draw_v on_o of_o new_a guiltiness_n by_o such_o a_o course_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n be_v cover_v under_o the_o vizard_n of_o humiliation_n a_o four_o evil_a follow_v this_o error_n which_o be_v this_o the_o afflict_a person_n so_o long_o as_o he_o continue_v in_o this_o mistake_n he_o give_v way_n to_o the_o tentation_n and_o do_v of_o set_a purpose_n foster_v his_o own_o misbelief_n that_o he_o may_v thereby_o foster_v and_o augment_v his_o own_o sorrow_n and_o affright_v himself_o with_o dreadful_a imagination_n what_o shall_v become_v of_o he_o that_o he_o may_v augment_v his_o affect_a heaviness_n of_o spirit_n and_o make_v the_o fountain_n of_o his_o tear_n run_v the_o more_o abundant_o a_o five_o evil_a be_v the_o afflict_a so_o long_o as_o he_o suspend_v his_o go_v to_o christ_n because_o he_o have_v not_o mourn_v sufficient_o for_o sin_n he_o foster_v another_o fault_n unawar_n to_o wit_n a_o purpose_n to_o lay_v down_o any_o more_o sorrow_v for_o sin_n if_o once_o he_o have_v overtake_v his_o imagine_a measure_n of_o sorrow_n and_o have_v his_o access_n so_o make_v unto_o christ._n this_o deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v bring_v to_o light_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o some_o antinomian_o who_o allow_v themselves_o once_o to_o mourn_v for_o sin_n that_o their_o mourning_n may_v make_v way_n for_o faith_n in_o christ_n but_o after_o they_o apprehend_v they_o have_v once_o repent_v and_o casten_z their_o burden_n on_o christ_n and_o do_v number_n themselves_o among_o believer_n they_o scorn_v to_o mourn_v any_o more_o for_o sin_n they_o harden_v themselves_o against_o all_o remorse_n of_o conscience_n and_o do_v reject_v secret_a challenge_n as_o groundless_a and_o make_v themselves_o merry_a with_o their_o own_o fancy_n and_o reckon_v all_o penitent_n to_o be_v under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n which_o evil_n if_o the_o afflict_a person_n will_v perceive_v to_o follow_v upon_o his_o error_n which_o as_o a_o net_n be_v spread_v before_o his_o foot_n to_o keep_v he_o from_o go_v to_o christ_n and_o follow_v the_o course_n and_o exercise_v of_o repentance_n all_o the_o day_n of_o his_o life_n he_o will_v take_v heed_n better_o to_o his_o step_n 4._o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v inform_v or_o call_v to_o mind_n concern_v sorrow_n for_o sin_n that_o it_o be_v not_o commend_v from_o the_o quantity_n or_o measure_n of_o it_o but_o from_o the_o quality_n or_o sincerity_n of_o it_o now_o sincere_a sorrow_n for_o sin_n be_v best_a discern_v by_o the_o hatred_n which_o the_o mourner_n have_v against_o sin_n by_o the_o mourner_n humiliation_n of_o himself_o before_o god_n by_o his_o abhor_a himself_n both_o for_o his_o sin_n and_o for_o the_o hardness_n of_o his_o heart_n under_o sin_n by_o his_o purpose_n to_o strive_v against_o all_o sin_n by_o his_o fly_v in_o unto_o christ_n for_o relief_n from_o sin_n by_o his_o entertain_n and_o renew_v of_o godly_a sorrow_n after_o he_o have_v believe_v in_o christ_n according_a as_o he_o find_v the_o inherent_a root_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v spring_v up_o in_o he_o this_o be_v indeed_o sincere_a and_o godly_a sorrow_n which_o cause_v repentance_n never_o to_o be_v repent_v of_o 5._o five_o and_o last_o of_o all_o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v exhort_v not_o to_o linger_v any_o more_o but_o fly_n to_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o be_v humble_v so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o be_v not_o so_o humble_v as_o he_o shall_v and_o will_v be_v let_v he_o call_v to_o mind_n that_o christ_n come_v not_o only_o to_o comfort_v mourner_n for_o sin_n but_o also_o to_o call_v sinner_n unto_o repentance_n for_o christ_n have_v not_o put_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n whereof_o we_o be_v speak_v to_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n he_o do_v not_o fell_a his_o precious_a ware_n nor_o his_o gift_n of_o grace_n for_o the_o price_n of_o man_n tear_n but_o let_v he_o remember_v that_o whosoever_o be_v so_o destitute_a in_o his_o own_o sense_n of_o all_o good_a as_o he_o find_v neither_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n nor_o repentance_n nor_o faith_n nor_o any_o other_o good_a thing_n in_o himself_o which_o may_v commend_v he_o to_o god_n but_o by_o the_o contrair_a much_o evil_n of_o all_o sort_n and_o yet_o come_v to_o christ_n be_v no_o doubt_n the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n who_o christ_n have_v pronounce_v bless_v matth._n 5._o 3._o and_o that_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o misery_n in_o the_o measure_n which_o he_o have_v of_o it_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o eyesalve_n already_o bestow_v upon_o he_o to_o encourage_v he_o to_o buy_v of_o christ_n all_o the_o riches_n which_o he_o hold_v forth_o to_o the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n revel_v 3._o 18._o chap._n vii_o wherein_o the_o christian_n doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v regenerate_v because_o he_o find_v not_o his_o righteousness_n exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n be_v answer_v there_o be_v some_o regenerate_a person_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o unworthiness_n and_o inability_n to_o help_v themselves_o be_v flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v give_v over_o themselves_o to_o he_o by_o faith_n and_o be_v endeavour_v to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n suitable_a to_o repentance_n who_o for_o all_o this_o fall_v a_o doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v renew_v whether_o their_o faith_n be_v true_a and_o save_a faith_n and_o the_o reason_n which_o they_o give_v of_o their_o doubt_n be_v because_o the_o reformation_n of_o their_o life_n whereunto_o they_o have_v attain_v appear_v unto_o they_o not_o to_o exceed_v the_o righteousness_n which_o may_v be_v find_v in_o some_o pagan_n or_o in_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n of_o who_o christ_n have_v say_v in_o the_o evangel_n matth._n 5._o 20._o i_o say_v unto_o you_o that_o except_o your_o righteousness_n exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n you_o shall_v in_o no_o case_n enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n this_o doubt_n be_v follow_v with_o grief_n anxiety_n of_o mind_n and_o fear_v least_o all_o virtue_n in_o they_o be_v find_v nothing_o but_o counterfeit_n and_o this_o case_n except_o it_o be_v speedy_o cure_v can_v choose_v but_o draw_v after_o it_o heavy_a and_o hard_a consequence_n for_o cure_v whereof_o we_o must_v confess_v that_o many_o pagan_n and_o infidel_n
this_o doubt_n let_v we_o remember_v that_o it_o be_v pre-supposed_n and_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o some_o that_o be_v afflict_v with_o this_o doubt_n and_o suspicion_n do_v not_o cease_v to_o follow_v duty_n howbeit_o heartles_o do_v live_v blameless_a in_o a_o evil_a world_n and_o so_o be_v not_o idle_a nor_o unfruitful_a only_o this_o do_v trouble_v they_o that_o they_o find_v not_o the_o peace_n of_o conscience_n which_o they_o do_v expect_v they_o miss_v joy_n in_o god_n consolation_n in_o their_o prayer_n patience_n in_o affection_n cheerfulness_n and_o alacrity_n in_o follow_v their_o call_n they_o do_v not_o find_v sensible_a approbation_n of_o their_o work_n from_o god_n as_o they_o do_v promise_n to_o themselves_o and_o do_v expect_v hence_o flow_v their_o tear_n lamentation_n and_o complaint_n of_o themselves_o and_o suspicion_n of_o the_o reality_n and_o sincerity_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o all_o without_o just_a cause_n for_o as_o in_o bodily_a sickness_n sometime_o more_o malady_n than_o one_o be_v complicat_fw-la and_o to_o each_o of_o they_o respect_n must_v be_v have_v for_o perfect_v the_o cure_n so_o in_o this_o case_n more_o practical_a error_n do_v concur_v and_o each_o of_o they_o must_v be_v decipher_v and_o remove_v we_o shall_v condescend_v upon_o four_o the_o first_o practical_a error_n of_o the_o afflict_a be_v the_o suspending_a of_o his_o faith_n upon_o a_o tacit_a condition_n that_o such_o and_o such_o effect_n be_v produce_v and_o that_o god_n sensible_a approbation_n of_o his_o diligence_n and_o work_n be_v feel_v as_o if_o there_o be_v no_o warrantable_a act_n of_o faith_n for_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n except_o after_o a_o certain_a time_n and_o trial_n take_v whether_o it_o shall_v produce_v such_o or_o such_o fruit_n or_o not_o and_o here_o three_o deceit_n do_v concur_v the_o first_o be_v a_o faith_n with_o a_o secret_a reservation_n if_o such_o fruit_n follow_v be_v by_o suggestion_n of_o the_o tempter_n thrust_v in_o in_o the_o place_n of_o absolute_a believe_v without_o reservation_n and_o in_o effect_n be_v a_o try_v of_o god_n in_o stead_n of_o trust_v in_o he_o for_o through_o temptation_n the_o afflict_a tacit_o crave_v a_o condition_n to_o be_v perform_v by_o god_n that_o when_o god_n perform_v the_o prescribe_a condition_n than_o the_o man_n faith_n after_o that_o may_v rest_v upon_o he_o other_o way_n not_o for_o when_o a_o sinner_n come_v to_o christ_n he_o shall_v speak_v to_o this_o sense_n o_o lord_n my_o god_n see_v it_o have_v please_v thou_o to_o reveal_v thyself_o to_o i_o a_o blind_a impotent_a sinner_n run_v towards_o hell_n and_o have_v offer_v thyself_o to_o i_o for_o a_o saviour_n in_o who_o i_o may_v have_v wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n behold_v o_o lord_n i_o hearty_o receive_v the_o grace_n offer_v i_o embrace_v thy_o word_n and_o thyself_o offer_v to_o i_o in_o thy_o word_n and_o do_v give_v up_o myself_o whole_o to_o thy_o government_n that_o thou_o may_v repair_v in_o i_o the_o lose_a image_n of_o god_n and_o powerful_o carry_v i_o on_o unto_o salvation_n instead_o of_o say_v thus_o and_o close_a absolute_o the_o bargain_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n reconcile_n the_o world_n to_o himself_o the_o tempter_n will_v have_v the_o poor_a afflict_a man_n to_o speak_v as_o it_o be_v to_o this_o sense_n o_o lord_n the_o condition_n whereupon_o thou_o do_v offer_v to_o be_v my_o god_n and_o saviour_n do_v please_v i_o well_o but_o because_o i_o fear_v i_o may_v deceive_v myself_o in_o perform_v that_o condition_n i_o require_v another_o condition_n of_o thou_o that_o thou_o will_v first_o let_v i_o see_v the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o which_o if_o i_o shall_v find_v within_o sometime_o hence_o then_o will_v i_o count_v myself_o a_o believer_n and_o will_v rest_v on_o thou_o but_o if_o i_o find_v not_o such_o fruit_n as_o may_v evidence_n true_a faith_n in_o i_o i_o must_v pronounce_v my_o say_v either_o no_o faith_n or_o a_o dead_a faith_n which_o have_v a_o name_n of_o faith_n but_o neither_o power_n nor_o life_n in_o it_o for_o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a as_o james_n say_v ch_n 2._o 26._o now_o what_o be_v this_o else_o in_o effect_n then_o to_o make_v a_o new_a condition_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o promise_v upon_o this_o condition_n to_o believe_v on_o christ_n if_o god_n shall_v do_v as_o the_o sinner_n give_v he_o direction_n that_o be_v if_o god_n shall_v make_v he_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n first_o when_o it_o become_v he_o absolute_o to_o embrace_v christ_n that_o he_o may_v both_o be_v forgive_v of_o sin_n and_o enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n of_o faith_n another_o fault_n be_v here_o also_o which_o be_v this_o the_o afflict_a person_n do_v require_v mature_a fruit_n from_o a_o weak_a faith_n from_o a_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o settle_v and_o fix_v but_o suspend_v on_o a_o condition_n which_o be_v no_o less_o unreasonable_a then_o if_o a_o foolish_a gardner_n shall_v require_v fruit_n of_o a_o young_a tree_n late_o plant_v yea_o before_o the_o root_n of_o it_o be_v well_o settle_v in_o the_o ground_n yea_o and_o will_v not_o let_v it_o stand_v in_o his_o garden_n except_o it_o shall_v first_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n whereby_o it_o may_v evidence_n itself_o worthy_a of_o pain_n take_v on_o it_o a_o three_o fault_n be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a in_o this_o case_n do_v pre-suppose_a that_o true_a faith_n be_v posterior_n to_o the_o fruit_n of_o true_a faith_n both_o in_o nature_n and_o time_n for_o if_o he_o will_v not_o believe_v in_o christ_n till_o after_o he_o perceive_v and_o feel_v in_o himself_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n upon_o this_o ground_n he_o can_v never_o believe_v till_o he_o first_o find_v the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o himself_o which_o be_v nothing_o else_o in_o effect_n then_o to_o imagine_v that_o the_o effect_n must_v go_v before_o its_o cause_n unto_o this_o threefold_a self-deceit_n we_o offer_v this_o one_o remedy_n in_o general_n that_o the_o afflict_a person_n in_o the_o foresay_a case_n humble_v himself_o before_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o barrenness_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o find_v small_a or_o no_o fruit_n in_o himself_o let_v he_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o fasten_v himself_o the_o more_o on_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n and_o cleave_v unto_o he_o by_o faith_n without_o delay_n that_o he_o may_v draw_v virtue_n and_o furniture_n from_o he_o to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n for_o this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o make_v he_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o abundance_n as_o christ_n do_v teach_v we_o joh._n 15._o 5._o he_o that_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o he_o the_o same_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n for_o without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o he_o and_o he_o only_o can_v make_v a_o good_a tree_n of_o a_o evil_a imp_n and_o cause_v it_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n answerable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o true_a vine_n wherein_o it_o be_v ingraft_v and_o see_v christ_n in_o the_o canticle_n ch_n 2._o 13._o do_v make_v no_o small_a account_n of_o the_o green_a fig_n and_o tender_a grape_n let_v not_o the_o afflict_a despise_v the_o day_n of_o small_a thing_n 4._o the_o second_o practical_a error_n in_o the_o afflicted_n foresay_a case_n be_v this_o the_o afflict_a person_n have_v imagine_v in_o himself_o that_o such_o and_o such_o fruit_n will_v present_o follow_v upon_o his_o receive_v the_o offer_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o he_o shall_v forthwith_o be_v skilful_a in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o salvation_n able_a to_o pray_v eloquent_o make_v cheerful_a in_o sing_v song_n of_o praise_n unto_o god_n ready_a and_o expedit_fw-la to_o every_o good_a work_n and_o that_o he_o shall_v feel_v constant_o a_o uninterrupted_n peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o after_o that_o by_o experience_n he_o have_v find_v that_o he_o can_v so_o much_o as_o enter_v upon_o any_o good_a work_n without_o a_o fight_n with_o satan_n and_o with_o his_o own_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o other_o impediment_n and_o withal_o he_o do_v feel_v the_o peace_n of_o his_o conscience_n and_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n with-drawn_a hereupon_o he_o begin_v to_o suspect_v the_o whole_a work_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o himself_o and_o that_o he_o remain_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n unrenewed_a 5._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o error_n let_v the_o afflict_a know_v that_o the_o hope_n which_o he_o have_v conceive_v at_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o gospel_n shall_v not_o be_v disappoint_v albeit_o according_a to_o his_o childish_a fore-conception_n they_o come_v not_o to_o pass_v for_o in_o a_o time_n due_a and_o acceptable_a god_n shall_v perform_v all_o his_o promise_n
and_o bring_v the_o believer_n flee_v unto_o he_o on_o upon_o his_o way_n till_o he_o put_v he_o in_o full_a possession_n of_o freedom_n from_o all_o sin_n and_o misery_n but_o yet_o this_o felicity_n be_v bring_v about_o not_o all_o at_o once_o but_o piece_n and_o piece_n and_o not_o without_o conflict_n with_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o not_o without_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v of_o god_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a be_v exhort_v to_o take_v courage_n unto_o he_o as_o become_v a_o soldier_n of_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o go_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o hope_n and_o patience_n be_v assure_v that_o whatsoever_o god_n have_v promise_v he_o will_v sure_o perform_v in_o that_o manner_n measure_n order_n and_o time_n and_o by_o his_o own_o appoint_a mean_n as_o he_o have_v set_v down_o in_o his_o holy_a scripture_n 6._o the_o three_o practical_a error_n of_o the_o afflict_a in_o the_o foresay_a case_n be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o judge_v right_o of_o his_o own_o faith_n nor_o of_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o for_o of_o his_o own_o faith_n he_o judge_v no_o otherways_o than_o of_o the_o faith_n of_o another_o man_n whileas_o there_o be_v a_o diverse_a way_n to_o judge_v of_o my_o own_o faith_n then_o of_o another_o man_n faith_n for_o because_o i_o can_v reach_v to_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o another_o man_n therefore_o i_o must_v judge_v only_o by_o the_o outward_a effect_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n that_o james_n give_v chap._n 2._o ver_fw-la 10._o show_v i_o thy_o faith_n without_o thy_o work_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n yet_o of_o my_o own_o faith_n i_o may_v judge_v not_o only_o by_o the_o external_a effect_n of_o it_o which_o in_o the_o first_o close_v with_o christ_n be_v not_o yet_o observable_a possible_o but_o also_o by_o the_o internal_a act_n of_o faith_n which_o the_o holy_a spirit_n who_o know_v the_o heart_n do_v reveal_v unto_o i_o by_o make_v i_o not_o only_o hearty_o to_o embrace_v christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o love_v he_o but_o also_o can_v make_v i_o reflect_v and_o turn_v back_o my_o eye_n upon_o his_o own_o gift_n and_o grace_n in_o i_o according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n free_o give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n again_o the_o afflict_a do_v not_o judge_v right_o of_o his_o own_o fruit_n of_o faith_n according_a as_o the_o truth_n be_v and_o as_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o word_n do_v judge_n he_o shall_v distinguish_v between_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o work_n and_o the_o perfection_n of_o it_o a_o work_n may_v be_v do_v upright_o and_o yet_o be_v imperfect_a he_o shall_v distinguish_v what_o be_v god_n part_n in_o the_o work_n from_o that_o which_o be_v wrong_a and_o corrupt_a flow_v from_o the_o remainder_n of_o sin_n in_o he_o these_o thing_n he_o do_v confound_v and_o do_v so_o fix_v his_o eye_n upon_o the_o defect_n and_o imperfection_n of_o his_o work_n that_o he_o see_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v wrong_a when_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n both_o to_o observe_v what_o be_v wrong_a that_o he_o may_v be_v humble_v and_o cast_v away_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o work_n and_o to_o observe_v also_o what_o be_v good_a and_o right_n in_o his_o work_n proceed_v from_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o so_o praise_n and_o thank_v god_n for_o it_o in_o christ_n who_o will_v not_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n isa._n 42._o 3._o 7._o for_o remedy_v therefore_o of_o this_o error_n let_v the_o afflict_a first_o look_v upon_o the_o act_n of_o his_o faith_n both_o internal_a and_o external_a both_o on_o the_o elicit_a act_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o imperat_fw-la act_n as_o they_o be_v call_v in_o the_o school_n and_o let_v he_o judge_v of_o both_o according_a to_o what_o be_v right_a and_o equitable_a that_o whatsoever_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o new_a obedience_n it_o may_v be_v difference_v from_o the_o mixture_n of_o infirmity_n defect_n or_o corruption_n and_o let_v he_o not_o judge_v of_o his_o work_n according_a to_o the_o suggestion_n and_o calumny_n of_o satan_n who_o always_o condemn_v so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v what_o be_v good_a in_o god_n child_n or_o if_o he_o can_v condemn_v it_o do_v labour_n to_o have_v it_o abuse_v second_o let_v the_o afflict_a observe_v the_o due_a order_n both_o in_o do_v his_o duty_n and_o in_o judge_v thereof_o for_o of_o necessity_n he_o must_v first_o put_v forth_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n on_o christ_n before_o he_o can_v pass_v judgement_n on_o it_o and_o let_v he_o first_o do_v the_o work_v command_v to_o the_o believer_n and_o then_o pass_v sentence_n that_o he_o may_v be_v strengthen_v to_o do_v more_o duty_n and_o so_o to_o present_v they_o to_o god_n to_o be_v washen_n accept_v and_o amend_v in_o his_o follow_a service_n three_o let_v he_o careful_o look_v unto_o the_o end_n which_o he_o shall_v propose_v to_o himself_o in_o judge_v of_o his_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n for_o the_o end_n of_o judge_v ourselves_o and_o our_o work_n shall_v be_v to_o confirm_v our_o faith_n in_o christ_n when_o we_o find_v any_o thing_n do_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o to_o ●lye_v to_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o conceive_v all_o be_v wrong_a after_o we_o have_v examine_v matter_n 6._o the_o four_o practical_a error_n be_v that_o the_o afflict_v first_o suffer_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v wound_v and_o weaken_v by_o satan_n tentation_n and_o then_o to_o be_v draw_v forth_o to_o the_o field_n to_o give_v a_o proof_n of_o the_o strength_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o some_o difficile_a duty_n before_o the_o wound_n of_o faith_n be_v bind_v up_o or_o heal_v for_o it_o be_v a_o great_a disadvantage_n to_o enter_v the_o list_n with_o satan_n about_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n whether_o they_o be_v sincere_a or_o not_o when_o faith_n be_v wound_v yea_o faint_v and_o be_v bring_v in_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v true_a faith_n or_o not_o now_o this_o be_v a_o special_a stratagem_n and_o wile_n of_o satan_n by_o whatsoever_o mean_v he_o can_v to_o hurt_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n child_n that_o he_o may_v by_o that_o mar_v communion-keeping_a with_o god_n and_o cut_v off_o if_o he_o can_v the_o conduit_n whereby_o the_o power_n of_o christ_n be_v convey_v to_o the_o believer_n for_o make_v he_o give_v acceptable_a obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o certain_o it_o be_v no_o less_o difficile_a when_o faith_n be_v wrest_v and_o for_o a_o time_n out_o of_o joint_n to_o set_v about_o acceptable_a service_n than_o it_o be_v to_o make_v a_o man_n to_o set_v upon_o his_o work_n when_o his_o arm_n be_v out_o of_o joint_n therefore_o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o error_n let_v the_o afflict_a so_o soon_o as_o he_o find_v his_o ●aith_n wound_v incontinent_a set_v himself_o down_o before_o god_n humble_o and_o acknowledge_v his_o foolishness_n want_v of_o watch_v unworthiness_n and_o inability_n either_o to_o know_v how_o he_o have_v grieve_v god_n spirit_n and_o make_v open_v a_o door_n for_o the_o tempter_n to_o fall_v in_o upon_o he_o or_o to_o repent_v the_o sin_n which_o he_o know_v may_v have_v provoke_v god_n so_o to_o exercise_v he_o and_o next_o let_v he_o look_v unto_o god_n in_o christ_n reconcil_n the_o world_n to_o himself_o and_o lie_v hold_v on_o the_o horn_n of_o the_o altar_n on_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v find_v help_n for_o the_o present_a need_n and_o thereafter_o also_o to_o walk_v more_o wise_o for_o this_o be_v the_o counsel_n which_o christ_n do_v give_v to_o the_o corrupt_a church_n of_o sardis_n revel_v 3._o 2._o strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v thus_o may_v the_o afflict_a recover_v strength_n of_o faith_n and_o ability_n to_o resist_v satan_n and_o furniture_n for_o bring_v forth_o unquestionable_a fruit_n of_o faith_n chap._n viii_o wherein_o the_o regenerate_a man_n doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o his_o unquietness_n of_o spirit_n be_v answer_v this_o case_n be_v incident_a to_o many_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n and_o may_v befall_v champion_n in_o time_n of_o sad_a affliction_n as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o prophet_n ps._n 42._o 11._o and_o 43._o 5._o why_o be_v thou_o cast_v down_o o_o my_o soul_n and_o why_o be_v thou_o disquiet_v within_o i_o but_o even_o in_o time_n of_o outward_a prosperity_n or_o when_o no_o great_a affliction_n bodily_a lie_v on_o many_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sinfulness_n have_v flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v take_v
his_o yoke_n upon_o they_o be_v trouble_v with_o doubt_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o true_a believer_n whether_o they_o have_v right_o come_v unto_o christ_n whether_o they_o have_v be_v well_o accept_v of_o he_o and_o for_o their_o doubt_v they_o can_v give_v no_o other_o reason_n save_v this_o i_o can_v be_v quiet_a nor_o rest_n in_o assurance_n that_o i_o be_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n if_o they_o be_v interrogat_n what_o they_o think_v of_o the_o evident_a sign_n of_o their_o regeneration_n which_o have_v be_v and_o be_v to_o be_v see_v in_o their_o conversation_n since_o they_o begin_v in_o earnest_a to_o seek_v the_o face_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n they_o will_v possible_o not_o altogether_o deny_v god_n work_n in_o they_o but_o yet_o dare_v not_o lean_a weight_n upon_o these_o sign_n because_o they_o do_v find_v these_o sign_n also_o bring_v in_o question_n whether_o they_o have_v be_v or_o be_v kind_o and_o sincere_a mean_v time_n they_o be_v about_o to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n in_o the_o course_n of_o their_o call_n albeit_o with_o more_o heaviness_n and_o less_o alacrity_n than_o become_v person_n reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o christ._n 2._o this_o disease_n will_v be_v find_v complicat_fw-la and_o make_v up_o of_o more_o mistake_n and_o error_n than_o one_o and_o therefore_o be_v to_o be_v the_o more_o narrow_o consider_v because_o it_o be_v no_o small_a hindrance_n of_o a_o comfortable_a christian_n conversation_n which_o god_n do_v allow_v on_o his_o child_n for_o in_o the_o party_n trouble_v with_o unquietness_n we_o presuppone_v i●_n there_o be_v a_o serious_a sense_n of_o sin_n and_o purpose_n to_o do_v better_o 2._o a_o unfeigned_a embrace_v of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n in_o christ_n j●sus_fw-la and_o 3._o a_o honest_a though_o weak_a endeavour_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o the_o person_n be_v not_o quiet_a but_o walk_v heavy_o and_o be_v discourage_v by_o reason_n of_o his_o uncertainty_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o yea_o he_o be_v cast_v down_o and_o disquiet_v because_o he_o be_v disquiet_v and_o can_v get_v a_o reasonable_a answer_n from_o his_o conscience_n when_o he_o ask_v of_o it_o why_o be_v thou_o cast_v down_o and_o disquiet_v within_o i_o 3._o the_o mistake_n and_o error_n whence_o this_o dissatisfaction_n and_o unquietness_n do_v flow_v be_v many_o but_o we_o shall_v condescend_v upon_o eight_o or_o nine_o only_o the_o first_o error_n and_o cause_n of_o unquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o party_n afflict_v albeit_o he_o have_v the_o habit_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o he_o and_o do_v by_o god_n grace_n put_v forth_o these_o habit_n in_o actual_a exercise_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o reflect_v upon_o nor_o turn_v his_o eye_n to_o observe_v the_o operation_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n in_o himself_o nor_o the_o act_n of_o save_a grace_n which_o the_o holy_a spirit_n have_v make_v he_o put_v forth_o of_o which_o if_o he_o take_v not_o notice_n they_o be_v to_o he_o for_o the_o time_n as_o if_o they_o be_v not_o and_o so_o no_o wonder_n he_o be_v disquiet_a while_o he_o perceive_v not_o in_o himself_o that_o which_o may_v make_v he_o quiet_a for_o example_n when_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n be_v raise_v up_o in_o a_o man_n spirit_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n if_o he_o do_v not_o observe_v that_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n convince_a the_o world_n of_o sin_n or_o if_o he_o do_v not_o turn_v back_o his_o eye_n on_o this_o operation_n and_o upon_o his_o own_o act_n stir_v up_o thereby_o to_o subscribe_v the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n against_o himself_o no_o wonder_n that_o he_o doubt_v of_o his_o conversion_n till_o he_o see_v the_o footstep_n of_o god_n the_o converter_n of_o he_o from_o the_o love_n and_o approbation_n of_o sin_n unto_o the_o hatred_n of_o it_o and_o when_o he_o be_v ●l●d_v to_o christ_n the_o only_a redeemer_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o have_v lay_v hold_n on_o he_o according_a to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n offer_v in_o he_o if_o he_o do_v not_o look_v back_o on_o this_o operation_n of_o god_n draw_v he_o to_o christ_n and_o upon_o his_o own_o act_n of_o come_v unto_o christ_n by_o the_o draught_n of_o god_n spirit_n what_o wonder_v he_o do_v not_o reckon_v himself_o among_o believer_n albeit_o he_o be_v in_o god_n account_n one_o of_o that_o number_n and_o when_o the_o holy_a spirit_n have_v kindle_v in_o he_o not_o only_o a_o purpose_n of_o new_a obedience_n but_o also_o a_o begin_v endeavour_n to_o live_v holy_o just_o and_o sober_o if_o he_o do_v not_o observe_v and_o acknowledge_v these_o operation_n of_o god_n spirit_n make_v he_o to_o bring_v forth_o these_o act_n what_o wonder_v that_o this_o mistake_n and_o inconsideration_n do_v open_a a_o door_n to_o disquietness_n and_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o 4._o for_o remove_v this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n the_o afflict_a person_n must_v beware_v that_o he_o pass_v not_o sentence_n of_o god_n dispensation_n towards_o he_o according_a to_o the_o tentation_n and_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n nor_o yet_o according_a to_o the_o opinion_n which_o his_o pastor_n or_o friend_n may_v have_v of_o he_o judge_v somewhat_o uncharitable_o of_o he_o upon_o sinister_a suspicion_n neither_o let_v he_o stand_v to_o the_o suspicion_n of_o his_o own_o incredulous_a heart_n but_o let_v he_o consider_v what_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v say_v of_o the_o person_n in_o who_o these_o three_o grace●_n do_v concur_v to_o wit_n 1._o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o inability_n to_o help_v ourselves_o 2._o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o 3._o some_o measure_n of_o upright_a purpose_n and_o endeavour_v to_o serve_v god_n in_o new_a obedience_n for_o of_o such_o say_v the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n or_o true_a israelit_n who_o have_v no_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n but_o rejoice_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o spirit_n let_v he_o therefore_o esteem_v the_o discovery_n of_o his_o sinful_a and_o wretched_a estate_n in_o himself_o to_o be_v the_o very_a fruit_n of_o the_o eyesalve_n and_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n bestow_v on_o he_o by_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o esteem_v his_o hearty_a consent_n give_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n to_o be_v the_o undoubted_a act_n of_o save_a faith_n for_o hearty_a consent_n to_o the_o offer_n of_o grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n presuppone_n first_o that_o the_o person_n see_v no_o stand_v for_o he_o by_o the_o law_n or_o covenant_n of_o work_n but_o be_v beat_v from_o all_o confidence_n in_o himself_o and_o make_v to_o believe_v and_o subscribe_v the_o righteous_a sentence_n of_o the_o law_n against_o himself_o to_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o justice_n second_o it_o import_v the_o man_n believe_v the_o testimony_n which_o god_n have_v give_v of_o christ_n jesus_n to_o wit_n that_o god_n have_v make_v a_o gift_n of_o life_n eternal_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o hunger_v and_o thirst_v for_o righteousness_n and_o that_o this_o life_n be_v in_o his_o son_n yea_o it_o import_v the_o man_n receive_v and_o embrace_v of_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n three_o it_o import_v that_o the_o consenter_n to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o he_o have_v renounce_v confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n so_o he_o have_v give_v up_o himself_o to_o god_n to_o live_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n unto_o eternal_a life_n now_o if_o the_o afflict_a shall_v reflect_v upon_o these_o two_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n make_v he_o humble_a in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n hearty_o to_o receive_v christ_n jesus_n for_o his_o relief_n and_o withal_o do_v observe_v a_o unfeigned_a purpose_n and_o begin_v endeavour_n to_o live_v more_o holy_o and_o fruitful_o by_o the_o grace_n and_o furniture_n of_o christ_n howsoever_o he_o labour_v under_o many_o infirmity_n not_o only_o be_v he_o undoubted_o a_o new_a creature_n but_o also_o by_o observe_v the_o foresay_a evidence_n thereof_o may_v conclude_v that_o god_n have_v begin_v a_o good_a work_n of_o grace_n in_o he_o and_o so_o shall_v this_o first_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v remove_v 5._o another_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o afflict_a after_o examination_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o be_v convince_v of_o his_o bless_a estate_n and_o confirm_v by_o present_a sense_n of_o god_n love_v shed_v abroad_o in_o his_o heart_n do_v not_o hold_v fast_o his_o estimation_n of_o god_n work_n in_o himself_o long_a
than_o the_o sensible_a comfort_n thereof_o remain_v with_o he_o but_o either_o do_v retreat_v his_o judgement_n of_o his_o bless_a estate_n or_o do_v not_o defend_v his_o right_n do_v not_o resist_v satan_n by_o be_v steadfast_a in_o the_o faith_n no_o wonder_n his_o disquietness_n and_o dejection_n of_o courage_n return_v upon_o he_o 6._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o spiritual_a consolation_n and_o sensible_a feel_n of_o god_n favour_n be_v grant_v to_o god_n child_n to_o make_v they_o steadfast_a in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n grace_n towards_o they_o when_o sensible_a comfort_n be_v with-drawn_a and_o when_o they_o be_v put_v to_o the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n of_o their_o faith_n under_o trouble_n and_o temptation_n and_o therefore_o when_o the_o afflicted_a once_o be_v make_v clear_a of_o his_o interest_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o keep_n on_o he_o the_o yoke_n of_o christ_n do_v find_v a_o change_n in_o his_o condition_n let_v he_o present_o humble_a himself_o before_o god_n in_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o and_o of_o whatsoever_o evil_a fruit_n it_o have_v bring_v forth_o whereby_o he_o have_v procure_v the_o change_n of_o his_o own_o comfortable_a condition_n and_o let_v he_o 〈◊〉_d the_o act_n of_o his_o repentance_n and_o of_o his_o 〈◊〉_d in_o christ_n strive_v against_o all_o temptation_n for_o the_o 〈◊〉_d once_o give_v to_o he_o and_o dispute_v for_o his_o right_n and_o interest_n unto_o god_n grace_n in_o christ_n that_o he_o may_v with_o patience_n obtain_v the_o victory_n over_o his_o temptation_n and_o be_v able_a not_o only_o with_o d●vid_n to_o charge_v his_o own_o soul_n to_o trust_v in_o god_n the_o help_n and_o health_n of_o his_o countenance_n ps._n 42._o and_o 43._o but_o also_o to_o glory_v with_o the_o apostle_n and_o to_o say_v 2_o tim._n 1._o 22._o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v unto_o he_o against_o that_o day_n and_o so_o may_v the_o second_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v remove_v 7._o a_o three_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o a_o sincere_a convert_n find_v himself_o come_v short_a both_o of_o his_o purpose_n and_o hope_n of_o make_v progress_n in_o the_o course_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o reformation_n of_o heart_n and_o conversation_n shall_v in_o 〈◊〉_d of_o be_v more_o humble_v and_o beat_v more_o out_o of_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o strength_n and_o work_n and_o in_o 〈◊〉_d of_o lay_v 〈◊〉_d hold_v on_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n 〈…〉_z discouragement_n and_o so_o open_a a_o 〈…〉_z call_n his_o own_o conversion_n in_o question_n in_o this_o case_n the_o 〈…〉_z of_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v augment_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o sincerity_n in_o his_o couversion_n wherein_o he_o renounce_v the_o love_n and_o service_n of_o all_o sin_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o worth_n or_o work_n do_v fly_v unto_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o christ_n and_o receive_v he_o hearty_o and_o purpose_v honest_o to_o serve_v god_n thereafter_o in_o newness_n of_o life_n which_o make_v he_o say_v in_o himself_o i_o can_v never_o put_v repentance_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o purpose_n of_o new_a obedience_n more_o sincere_o in_o exercise_n than_o i_o have_v do_v and_o now_o see_v i_o come_v short_a of_o my_o purpose_n and_o hope_n of_o profit_v and_o can_v never_o more_o sincere_o repent_v of_o sin_n or_o believe_v in_o christ_n then_o i_o have_v do_v have_v i_o not_o just_a cause_n of_o doubt_v of_o my_o estate_n and_o of_o discouragement_n and_o disquietness_n 8._o for_o remove_v this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o purpose_n and_o practice_n a_o holy_a and_o sincere_a purpose_n o●t_a time_n come_v short_a in_o practice_n for_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 7_o 18._o to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o i_o but_o how_o to_o perform_v that_o which_o be_v good_a i_o find_v not_o the_o inlake_n here_o be_v of_o strength_n to_o perform_v and_o not_o in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o will_n and_o purpose_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n between_o the_o consent_n of_o a_o well-informed_n conscience_n to_o the_o discharge_n of_o holy_a duty_n and_o the_o practical_a come_n up_o of_o the_o not_o well-reformed_n heart_n unto_o the_o actual_a discharge_n of_o those_o duty_n for_o ofttimes_o the_o heart_n be_v like_o a_o deceitful_a bow_n that_o disappoint_v the_o archer_n therefore_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a deny_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o purpose_n but_o let_v he_o be_v humble_v for_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o heart_n which_o have_v not_o answer_v his_o purpose_n and_o expectation_n three_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a think_v that_o he_o have_v so_o full_o renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n as_o he_o conceive_v we_o may_v be_v clear_o convince_v not_o to_o lean_v to_o our_o own_o righteousness_n and_o so_o more_o easy_o in_o our_o judgement_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o our_o good_a behaviour_n but_o the_o dregs_o of_o the_o sin_n of_o misbelieve_a jew_n be_v not_o easy_o purge_v out_o of_o we_o wherein_o they_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n and_o do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n rom._n 9_o and_o 10._o 3._o as_o he_o therefore_o who_o deny_v that_o he_o lean_v his_o weight_n on_o his_o staff_n and_o yet_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n when_o his_o staff_n do_v slide_v be_v find_v to_o have_v lean_v more_o weight_n on_o his_o staff_n then_o he_o pretend_v so_o he_o be_v find_v to_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o his_o own_o work_n who_o be_v cast_v down_o because_o his_o performance_n be_v not_o answerable_a to_o his_o purpose_n and_o hope_n humble_v indeed_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v and_o to_o lament_v his_o misery_n under_o the_o body_n of_o death_n but_o not_o be_v so_o deject_v and_o discourage_v as_o to_o loose_v or_o s●cken_v his_o grip_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n especial_o when_o he_o do_v consider_v that_o the_o lord_n by_o this_o experience_n of_o his_o own_o weakness_n be_v teach_v he_o thereafter_o to_o have_v a_o more_o high_a estimation_n and_o make_v better_a use_n of_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n and_o to_o lean_v less_o to_o his_o own_o purpose_n and_o promise_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n that_o so_o he_o may_v draw_v more_o ability_n from_o christ_n by_o faith_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n for_o without_o i_o say_v christ_n you_o can_v do_v nothing_o joh._n 15._o 5._o last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o neither_o say_v nor_o think_v that_o he_o can_v put_v forth_o any_o act_n of_o repentance_n or_o say_v or_o purpose_n of_o amendment_n of_o life_n more_o sincere_o than_o he_o have_v do_v for_o no_o man_n have_v attain_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o any_o act_n of_o save_a grace_n but_o there_o be_v room_n for_o he_o to_o receive_v a_o great_a measure_n both_o of_o activity_n and_o sincerity_n in_o act_v than_o he_o have_v attain_v already_o but_o rather_o let_v he_o examine_v more_o narrow_o and_o find_v out_o the_o corrupt_a inclination_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o lean_v to_o its_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o difficulty_n of_o subject_v itself_o whole_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o ●aith_n and_o sanctification_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o this_o do_v the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o to_o do_v philip._n 3._o 12_o 13_o 14._o he_o do_v not_o think_v himself_o already_o perfect_a but_o reach_v himself_o forth_o to_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v before_o he_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o prize_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o the_o end_n of_o the_o press_n of_o the_o law_n be_v that_o sin_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_o discover_v that_o as_o sin_n have_v reign_v unto_o death_n even_o so_o may_v grace_v reign_n through_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n r●m_n 5._o 20_o 21._o 9_o the_o four_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a conu●rt_n be_v frequent_o convince_v of_o the_o manifold_a deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o this_o cause_n shall_v begin_v to_o call_v in_o question_n all_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o which_o inconvenience_n do_v flow_v from_o his_o not_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o true_a consent_n of_o the_o heart_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o act_n of_o holiness_n in_o so_o far_o as_o the_o heart_n be_v renew_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o the_o doubt_v
or_o hesitation_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v not_o purge_v from_o the_o relic_n of_o incredulity_n and_o backwarddesse_n unto_o godliness_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n or_o because_o he_o put_v no_o difference_n between_o the_o effect_n of_o renew_v grace_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o indwelling_a sin_n in_o himself_o both_o of_o they_o put_v forth_o their_o power_n in_o the_o self_n same_o action_n for_o if_o this_o difference_n shall_v not_o be_v observe_v and_o sentence_n so_o give_v as_o that_o which_o be_v in_o the_o renew_a man_n be_v absolve_v and_o commend_v and_o that_o which_o flow_v from_o indwelling_a sin_n be_v disallow_v and_o condemn_v without_o prejudice_n to_o any_o good_a which_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o the_o renew_a man_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o the_o conscience_n can_v be_v quiet_a or_o that_o any_o good_a action_n of_o the_o saint_n can_v be_v approven_v by_o reason_n of_o sin_n in_o we_o for_o the_o evil_n which_o we_o will_v not_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o we_o as_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o apostle_n censure_v of_o himself_o rom._n 7._o 15._o to_o 20._o 10._o for_o remove_v this_o four_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a learn_v so_o to_o observe_v the_o inlake_n and_o sinful_a imperfection_n and_o pollution_n of_o his_o best_a work_n as_o he_o observe_v also_o that_o which_o be_v good_a in_o his_o action_n that_o of_o the_o good_a he_o may_v make_v thankful_a confession_n unto_o god_n and_o pray_v for_o the_o increase_n thereof_o and_o of_o the_o inlake_n and_o pollution_n of_o his_o work_n he_o may_v make_v confession_n also_o and_o be_v humble_v for_o they_o and_o fly_v to_o the_o unsported_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o founta_fw-mi in_o open_v up_o in_o his_o house_n for_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n zech._n 13._o 1._o this_o wisdom_n be_v teach_v we_o in_o the_o example_n of_o the_o father_n of_o the_o child_n possess_v with_o a_o dumb_a and_o deaf_a spirit_n cry_v out_o and_o say_n with_o tear_n lord_n i_o believe_v help_v thou_o my_o unbelief_n mark_v 9_o 24._o he_o maintain_v the_o begin_v work_n of_o faith_n in_o himself_o and_o confess_v the_o evil_a he_o find_v in_o himself_o and_o fly_v by_o prayer_n to_o christ_n to_o help_v he_o 11._o the_o five_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a convert_n suspen●_n the_o absolution_n of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o fruit_n thereof_o from_o be_v hypocritical_a and_o counterfeit_a until_o he_o find_v himself_o free_v from_o disquietness_n and_o do_v enjoy_v peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o mind_n which_o he_o do_v apprehend_v shall_v always_o accompany_v sound_a sincere_a and_o unfeigned_a faith_n and_o on_o this_o ground_n he_o esteem_v that_o faith_n only_o to_o be_v true_a faith_n which_o have_v overcome_v all_o doubt_n and_o now_o be_v victorious_a bring_v peace_n and_o quietness_n with_o it_o and_o that_o faith_n which_o be_v toss_v or_o trouble_v with_o doubt_n he_o think_v may_v just_o be_v suspect_v of_o unsoundnesse_n as_o if_o tentation_n to_o doubt_v be_v a_o sufficient_a reason_n to_o make_v a_o question_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o believe_v or_o as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a reason_n for_o a_o man_n to_o call_v his_o faith_n in_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v true_a faith_n or_o not_o because_o satan_n call_v it_o in_o question_n for_o if_o this_o be_v a_o sufficient_a reason_n to_o question_v a_o work_n or_o act_v of_o grace_n in_o a_o man_n no_o work_n of_o grace_n nor_o no_o point_n of_o true_a religion_n shall_v be_v hold_v for_o sound_n and_o true_a because_o satan_n never_o cease_v to_o calum●iat_v and_o quarrel_v the_o truth_n both_o of_o god_n word_n and_o work_n for_o he_o be_v so_o malicious_a and_o impudent_a as_o to_o question_v christ_n if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n mat._n 4._o 3._o 12._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v first_o that_o the_o assault_n of_o the_o enemy_n do_v neither_o diminish_v the_o worth_n nor_o the_o estimation_n of_o faith_n for_o faith_n fight_v be_v no_o less_o solid_a and_o sound_a in_o the_o time_n of_o battle_n than_o it_o be_v after_o victory_n stand_v victorious_a 2._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o a_o warfare_n not_o only_o against_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o also_o against_o principality_n and_o power_n and_o spiritual_a wickedness_n ephes._n 6._o and_o that_o we_o may_v not_o promise_v to_o ourselves_o freedom_n or_o exemption_n from_o satan_n throw_v fiery_a dart_n at_o we_o ●o_o long_o as_o we_o live_v as_o the_o apostle_n do_v warn_v we_o ephes._n 5._o let_v he_o consider_v three_o that_o objection_n and_o question_n move_v against_o the_o convert_n faith_n be_v rather_o a_o token_n of_o the_o sincerity_n thereof_o than_o a_o reason_n for_o bring_v it_o in_o question_n for_o the_o pirate_n satan_n can_v discern_v well_o enough_o between_o a_o empty_a vessel_n and_o a_o ship_n 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silver_n put_v ofttimes_o in_o the_o furnace_n yea_o and_o that_o the_o wrestler_n may_v be_v make_v valiant_a in_o fight_n heb._n 11._o 34._o whereupon_o the_o afflict_a must_v be_v exhort_v not_o only_o to_o take_v courage_n and_o to_o despise_v the_o malice_n of_o the_o adversary_n but_o also_o to_o rejoice_v when_o he_o do_v meet_v with_o manifold_a tentation_n as_o we_o be_v charge_v jam._n 1._o 2._o because_o of_o the_o fruit_n follow_v by_o god_n blessing_n on_o such_o exercise_n and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v he_o put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n that_o when_o he_o have_v resist_v and_o overcome_v one_o tentation_n he_o may_v stand_v and_o resist_v another_o ephes._n 6._o 13._o the_o six_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a convert_n do_v not_o distinguish_v but_o confound_v the_o peace_n he_o have_v with_o god_n and_o the_o peace_n he_o have_v in_o his_o conscience_n if_o he_o do_v not_o distinguish_v but_o confound_v peace_n 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the_o believer_n as_o may_v best●erve_v the_o good_a of_o the_o believer_n and_o glory_n of_o god_n ●gracious_a dispensation_n and_o therefore_o three_o let_v the_o afflected_a person_n whatsoever_o crossedispensati●n_v he_o me●_n with_o whatsoever_o distemper_n of_o soul_n he_o 〈◊〉_d into_o u●a●soever_o grace_n or_o measure_n of_o grace_n he_o miss●●_n or_o colb_v short_a of_o seek_v his_o relief_n in_o god_n order_n 〈◊〉_d be_v to_o say_v let_v he_o justify_v the_o lord_n wisdom_n and_o j●ice_n humble_v himself_o under_o his_o mighty_a hand_n renew_v act_n of_o repentance_n in_o humility_n turn_v his_o face_n to_o 〈◊〉_d christ_n by_o the_o renew_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o he_o lay_v h●d_n on_o his_o right_n unto_o christ_n person_n and_o benefit_n that_o ●●may_n ●om_n to_o the_o sensible_a feel_n of_o what_o he_o have_v right_a ●to_z by_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o whatsoever_o dect_v transgression_n temptation_n unto_o discouragement_n and_o ●isbelief_n do_v brangle_v his_o confidence_n let_v they_o humble_v himself_o indeed_o but_o so_o as_o they_o do_v not_o drive_v he_o from_o that_o covenant_n but_o be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o spur_n and_o forcible_a motive_n to_o lay_v the_o fast_o hold_v on_o christ_n and_o his_o infinite_a grace_n contract_v in_o that_o covenant_n 17._o the_o eight_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a convert_n daily_o lament_v his_o own_o sinfulness_n and_o daily_o trouble_v with_o suspicion_n of_o his_o own_o bless_a estate_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o felt_n mani●old_a corruption_n shall_v meet_v either_o with_o the_o calumny_n of_o man_n or_o co●forters_n like_o iob_n friend_n who_o in_o stead_n of_o heal_v his_o wound_n in_o his_o affliction_n shall_v foster_v his_o suspicion_n of_o his_o estate_n by_o uncharitable_a censure_n of_o the_o poor_a man_n complaint_n of_o himself_o in_o this_o case_n if_o the_o affected_a do_v not_o maintain_v his_o righteousness_n by_o ●aith_n in_o christ_n 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foster_v suspicion_n unjust_o of_o his_o own_o bless_a estate_n 2._o that_o he_o do_v not_o observe_v the_o work_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o himself_o so_o careful_o as_o he_o observe_v his_o imperfection_n and_o corruption_n 3._o that_o he_o do_v not_o so_o much_o the_o more_o make_v use_n of_o christ_n impute_a righteousness_n as_o he_o find_v the_o imperfection_n of_o his_o own_o inherent_a righteousness_n 4._o that_o he_o measure_v god_n estimation_n of_o he_o according_a to_o the_o estimation_n he_o have_v of_o himself_o when_o indeed_o god_n in_o scripture_n do_v show_v no_o less_o approbation_n of_o he_o in_o his_o wrestle_n than_o he_o do_v in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o victory_n and_o quiet_a condition_n 5._o that_o he_o do_v not_o observe_v the_o difference_n of_o the_o way_n he_o do_v walk_v into_o which_o be_v good_a from_o the_o fliding_n imperfection_n error_n and_o mistake_n in_o particular_a action_n and_o passage_n in_o that_o way_n 6._o that_o he_o do_v lay_v more_o weight_n ofttimes_o upon_o the_o judgement_n of_o mistake_v spectator_n of_o his_o course_n than_o he_o have_v reason_n to_o do_v and_o do_v not_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o gospel_n concern_v the_o poor_a in_o spirit_n the_o contrite_a the_o meek_a and_o lowly_a disciple_n these_o thing_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v and_o make_v good_a use_n thereof_o for_o his_o encouragement_n in_o the_o way_n of_o new_a obedience_n 19_o the_o nine_o cause_n of_o disquietness_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o if_o the_o true_a convert_n be_v not_o acquaint_v with_o live_v by_o faith_n for_o there_o be_v many_o honest_a and_o tender-hearted_a convert_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n be_v flee_v unto_o christ_n resolve_v never_o to_o depart_v from_o he_o and_o careful_a to_o lead_v a_o blameless_a life_n who_o notwithstanding_o whensoever_o they_o meet_v with_o change_n of_o dispensation_n with_o variety_n of_o temptation_n fresh_a feeling_n of_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n in_o themselves_o or_o any_o cross_a bodily_a or_o spiritual_a be_v disquiet_v and_o cast_v in_o suspicion_n of_o their_o state_n and_o albeit_o they_o neither_o will_v give_v over_o to_o follow_v after_o christ_n nor_o will_v god_n suffer_v they_o to_o perish_v yet_o they_o make_v themselves_o a_o uncomfortable_a and_o miserable_a life_n by_o their_o lean_v to_o present_a sense_n and_o feeling_n when_o they_o shall_v remember_v the_o say_n of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 7._o we_o walk_v not_o by_o sight_n but_o by_o faith_n they_o be_v cast_v down_o do_v mourn_v and_o complain_v because_o it_o be_v not_o with_o they_o as_o they_o will_v and_o be_v most_o part_n malcontent_a with_o their_o lot_n frequent_o regrate_v unto_o god_n their_o want_n and_o imperfection_n and_o seldom_o be_v they_o praise_v or_o thank_v god_n for_o what_o they_o have_v get_v of_o he_o 20._o for_o remove_v this_o cause_n let_v the_o afflict_a first_o consider_v what_o the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o the_o afflict_a hebrew_n heb._n 10._o 36._o you_o have_v need_n of_o patience_n that_o when_o you_o have_v do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n you_o may_v receive_v the_o promise_n for_o yet_o a_o little_a while_n and_o he_o that_o will_v come_v shall_v come_v and_o will_v not_o tarry_v now_o the_o just_a man_n shall_v live_v by_o faith_n say_v he_o second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o to_o live_v by_o faith_n do_v require_v these_o six_o duty_n 1._o that_o we_o renounce_v our_o own_o corrupt_a reason_n and_o sense_n lest_o we_o count_v that_o to_o be_v our_o life_n which_o may_v be_v see_v or_o feel_v or_o that_o which_o may_v be_v alter_v and_o change_v but_o reckon_v that_o to_o be_v our_o life_n which_o be_v hide_v with_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o shall_v be_v reveal_v at_o the_o glorious_a come_n of_o our_o lord_n 2._o that_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o rich_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v esteem_v of_o we_o as_o our_o meet_a and_o drink_v whereby_o 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saint_n rom._n 5._o 3_o 4_o 5._o last_o of_o all_o to_o live_v by_o faith_n require_v that_o in_o every_o condition_n we_o shall_v keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o esteem_v ourselves_o bless_v of_o the_o lord_n albeit_o we_o be_v toss_v with_o trouble_n immediate_o send_v from_o god_n to_o exercise_v we_o albeit_o we_o do_v fall_v in_o manifold_a tentation_n be_v assault_v with_o doubt_n and_o persecute_v unjust_o by_o man_n for_o it_o shall_v and_o may_v suffice_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n if_o he_o be_v not_o distress_v albeit_o he_o be_v trouble_v on_o every_o side_n he_o must_v not_o despair_v albeit_o he_o be_v perplex_v he_o shall_v not_o be_v forsake_v albeit_o he_o be_v persecute_v he_o shall_v not_o be_v destroy_v albeit_o he_o be_v cast_v down_o 2_o cor._n 4._o 8_o 9_o upon_o
of_o eternal_a life_n other_o some_o doubt_v of_o the_o soundness_n of_o their_o conversion_n because_o the_o ●error_n of_o god_n and_o fear_n of_o condemnation_n and_o hell_n prevail_v more_o with_o they_o for_o change_v their_o course_n than_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o true_a holiness_n do_v and_o both_o the_o one_o sort_n and_o the_o other_o do_v conceive_v the_o chief_a rise_n of_o their_o change_n to_o have_v be_v natural_a or_o carnal_a self-love_n fear_v harm_n and_o love_a life_n 2._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o doubt_n we_o grant_v that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o after_o some_o notable_a delivery_n from_o death_n or_o some_o notable_a benefit_n receive_v or_o after_o some_o sharp_a rod_n of_o chastisement_n for_o their_o sin_n have_v change_v their_o outward_a way_n of_o live_v leave_v off_o gross_a vice_n and_o lead_v a_o more_o civil_a and_o blameless_a outward_a life_n and_o yet_o have_v neither_o serious_o repent_v they_o of_o sin_n nor_o serious_o flee_v in_o unto_o the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n neither_o know_v what_o save_a faith_n be_v nor_o careful_a to_o know_v it_o but_o of_o such_o we_o do_v not_o speak_v here_o for_o we_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o true_a convert_n and_o renew_a man_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n be_v flee_v to_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o unworthiness_n make_v the_o grace_n offer_v his_o refuge_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o indigence_n look_v up_o to_o christ_n and_o seek_v supply_v of_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n and_o by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v strive_v against_o sin_n endeavour_v in_o some_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o he_o doubt_v of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o own_o conversion_n for_o the_o reason_n foresay_a to_o this_o soldier_n and_o wrestler_n we_o say_v as_o before_o we_o say_v to_o he_o that_o doubt_v of_o his_o conversion_n because_o he_o can_v design_v the_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n it_o be_v not_o material_a by_o what_o way_n or_o mean_n or_o motive_n a_o man_n be_v bring_v unto_o christ_n provide_v he_o do_v come_v and_o indeed_o adhere_v to_o christ_n it_o be_v all_o one_o whether_o the_o rise_v of_o the_o man_n turn_v from_o sin_n to_o god_n be_v love_v allure_a or_o terror_n drive_v he_o whether_o a_o benefit_n or_o a_o sharp_a rod_n whether_o fear_n or_o hope_n do_v at_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o his_o change_n move_v he_o to_o seek_v god_n provide_v god_n manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n christ_n jesus_n the_o redeemer_n of_o sinner_n be_v now_o his_o belove_a lord_n and_o precious_a in_o his_o eye_n for_o he_o that_o be_v most_o sweet_o allure_v to_o come_v to_o god_n and_o without_o much_o fear_n be_v convert_v who_o possible_o after_o serious_a conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o deserve_a death_n be_v not_o keep_v long_o at_o the_o door_n of_o mercy_n but_o forthwith_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n and_o tender_o entertain_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o consolation_n may_v fall_v in_o hard_a exercise_n afterward_o this_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o prophet_n david_n in_o who_o his_o brethren_n live_v in_o the_o same_o family_n with_o he_o do_v not_o perceive_v any_o sign_n of_o a_o sorrowful_a or_o heavy_a heart_n as_o his_o brother_n eliab_n word_n do_v show_v 1_o sam._n 17._o 28._o i_o know_v thy_o pride_n and_o the_o naughtiness_n of_o thy_o heart_n thus_o do_v eliab_n judge_v of_o david_n cheerful_a carriage_n whereof_o also_o we_o have_v some_o evidence_n that_o david_n be_v of_o a_o ruddy_a and_o beautiful_a countenance_n and_o for_o some_o year_n of_o his_o youth_n do_v pass_v the_o time_n pleasant_o serve_v god_n with_o his_o song_n and_o harp_n while_o he_o be_v feed_v his_o sheep_n in_o the_o wilderness_n now_o none_o can_v just_o question_v his_o conversion_n all_o this_o time_n or_o his_o sincerity_n in_o this_o service_n yet_o afterward_o he_o be_v otherways_o exercise_v for_o ofttimes_o he_o feel_v the_o power_n of_o the_o law_n upon_o his_o spirit_n and_o be_v toss_v with_o the_o terror_n thereof_o and_o make_v to_o mourn_v and_o weep_v heavy_o such_o do_v iob_n condition_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o his_o youth_n as_o it_o be_v describe_v job_n 29._o but_o afterward_o in_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o faith_n what_o a_o conflict_n with_o temptation_n he_o have_v the_o sacred_a history_n do_v testify_v therefore_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n why_o any_o in_o who_o these_o evidence_n of_o a_o true_a israelit_fw-la be_v find_v in_o any_o measure_n shall_v suspect_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o have_v be_v gentle_o handle_v in_o his_o conversion_n for_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o same_o person_n may_v fall_v in_o fiery_a trial_n and_o so_o hard_a temptation_n as_o he_o may_v fall_v in_o doubt_n of_o his_o conversion_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o sad_a affliction_n inward_a and_o outward_a whereby_o he_o be_v exercise_v in_o which_o case_n he_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v mistake_v no_o less_o than_o he_o be_v mistake_v in_o the_o former_a case_n and_o condition_n for_o some_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n may_v possible_o both_o in_o their_o conversion_n and_o most_o part_n of_o their_o life_n be_v exercise_v with_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o law_n and_o yet_o retain_v fast_o hold_v by_o faith_n on_o christ_n grace_n in_o their_o deep_a affliction_n for_o instance_n we_o offer_v that_o precious_a soul_n heman_n the_o ezrait_n who_o come_v near_o unto_o solomon_n in_o the_o point_n of_o wisdom_n 1_o king_n 4_o 31._o and_o yet_o how_o bitter_a his_o affliction_n of_o spirit_n be_v the_o 88_o psalm_n bear_v witness_v special_o v_o 13._o 14_o 15._o but_o unto_o thou_o have_v i_o cry_v o_o lord_n and_o in_o the_o morning_n shall_v my_o prayer_n prevent_v thou_o and_o why_o cast_v thou_o off_o my_o soul_n why_o hide_v thou_o thy_o face_n from_o i_o i_o be_o afflict_v and_o ready_a to_o die_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o while_o i_o suffer_v thy_o terror_n i_o be_o distract_v etc._n etc._n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o just_a cause_n that_o any_o in_o who_o the_o evidence_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n may_v be_v find_v shall_v call_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o own_o conversion_n in_o question_n how_o hardly_o soever_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v handle_v of_o god_n for_o whosoever_o be_v join_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o will_v neither_o suffer_v himself_o to_o be_v drive_v from_o he_o nor_o yet_o will_v endure_v sin_n to_o remain_v in_o himself_o uncontrolled_a be_v certain_o a_o true_a convert_n as_o for_o these_o who_o for_o some_o temporal_a cause_n be_v come_v to_o christ_n as_o many_o do_v come_v in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n that_o they_o may_v be_v deliver_v from_o some_o temporal_a evil_n or_o obtain_v some_o temporal_a benefit_n and_o for_o that_o cause_n do_v doubt_n of_o their_o conversion_n or_o sincerity_n thereof_o they_o need_v not_o dispute_n much_o about_o the_o occasion_n of_o their_o first_o seek_v after_o god_n provide_v that_o they_o have_v learn_v what_o christ_n grace_n be_v and_o do_v seek_v righteousness_n and_o salvation_n in_o he_o for_o we_o read_v in_o the_o evangel_n that_o sundry_a that_o they_o may_v be_v cure_v of_o leprosy_n palsy_n blindness_n etc._n etc._n come_v unto_o christ_n who_o afterward_o come_v and_o adhere_v to_o he_o by_o faith_n as_o the_o only_a redeemer_n and_o saviour_n of_o their_o soul_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n wherefore_o in_o such_o doubt_n let_v not_o the_o afflict_a trouble_n himself_o nor_o call_v his_o conversion_n in_o question_n but_o let_v he_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n and_o to_o increase_v in_o holiness_n make_v his_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a by_o well-doing_n for_o if_o he_o do_v this_o he_o shall_v neither_o be_v find_v idle_a nor_o unfruitful_a in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n as_o the_o apostle_n promise_v 2_o pet._n 1._o 8._o chap._n xi_o wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_n of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n arise_v from_o heavy_a affliction_n and_o grievous_a tentation_n be_v solve_v some_o true_a convert_n sometime_o fall_v into_o great_a suspicion_n of_o their_o regeneration_n of_o their_o effectual_a call_n and_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n unto_o they_o and_o that_o because_o they_o meet_v with_o sore_a outward_a affliction_n and_o be_v assault_v also_o possible_o with_o horrible_a inward_a tentation_n which_o do_v befall_v they_o unexpected_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o swallow_v they_o up_o for_o whereas_o after_o divers_a conflict_n in_o their_o conversion_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n follow_v after_o these_o sad_a exercise_n of_o mind_n they_o hope_v to_o have_v enjoy_v god_n peace_n still_o after_o
they_o do_v meet_v possible_o with_o sad_a calamity_n which_o they_o do_v not_o foresee_v nor_o fear_v and_o be_v yoke_v in_o conflict_n with_o more_o fearful_a tentation_n then_o ever_o before_o which_o they_o find_v themselves_o unable_a to_o overcome_v they_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o have_v just_a cause_n to_o call_v in_o question_n all_o the_o former_a work_n of_o grace_n in_o themselves_o and_o to_o doubt_v of_o their_o regeneration_n and_o of_o their_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n of_o this_o sort_n some_o who_o live_v in_o great_a wealth_n and_o outward_a prosperity_n do_v fall_n in_o so_o deep_a poverty_n that_o they_o be_v neither_o able_a to_o sustain_v themselves_o nor_o their_o family_n but_o be_v force_v to_o live_v on_o the_o private_a charity_n of_o other_o or_o open_o to_o beg_v other_o some_o do_v fall_v in_o heavy_a sickness_n yea_o in_o uncouth_a disease_n which_o but_o rare_o do_v befall_v any_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v evidence_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n other_o some_o do_v fall_v in_o horrible_a tentation_n and_o be_v trouble_v with_o blasphemous_a suggestion_n against_o god_n and_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o the_o way_n of_o the_o saint_n which_o as_o fiery_a dart_n do_v stick_v fast_o unto_o they_o and_o disquiet_v they_o continual_o other_o some_o be_v tempt_v unto_o heinous_a sin_n and_o to_o such_o wickedness_n against_o themselves_o or_o other_o as_o nature_n do_v abhor_v to_o which_o act_n of_o wickedness_n they_o find_v themselves_o so_o powerful_o soli_v as_o they_o fear_v god_n have_v decree_v to_o give_v they_o over_o and_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v overcome_v with_o the_o tentation_n some_o after_o one_o way_n some_o after_o another_o way_n by_o one_o sort_n or_o other_o of_o vexation_n be_v toss_v so_o as_o they_o suspect_v god_n be_v pursue_v they_o in_o wrath_n and_o deal_n with_o they_o otherways_o then_o with_o any_o of_o his_o child_n whereupon_o ofttimes_o they_o break_v forth_o in_o sad_a complaint_n and_o misbelieve_a suspicion_n say_v if_o god_n love_v i_o he_o will_v not_o deal_v thus_o and_o thus_o with_o i_o if_o i_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n and_o reconcile_v with_o god_n he_o will_v not_o thus_o pursue_v i_o my_o case_n be_v not_o the_o case_n of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n for_o any_o thing_n i_o know_v and_o other_o such_o like_a regrate_v and_o lamentation_n be_v utter_v by_o they_o 2._o for_o solve_v this_o doubt_n we_o neither_o esteem_v such_o exercise_n and_o tentation_n proper_a to_o the_o regenerate_a man_n or_o a_o token_n of_o regeneration_n neither_o do_v we_o deny_v that_o such_o exercise_n may_v befall_v true_a convert_n for_o all_o sort_n of_o affliction_n and_o calamity_n be_v common_a to_o the_o good_a and_o evil_n to_o the_o godly_a and_o the_o wicked_a so_o that_o by_o those_o trouble_n and_o misery_n neither_o the_o love_n or_o hatred_n of_o god_n can_v be_v certain_o conclude_v but_o thus_o much_o may_v be_v say_v in_o reason_n if_o these_o calamity_n do_v befall_v a_o man_n while_o he_o be_v walk_v in_o his_o own_o sinful_a way_n then_o be_v they_o undoubted_o to_o be_v interpret_v as_o evidence_n of_o god_n wrath_n at_o least_o fatherly_a anger_n against_o the_o afflict_a and_o to_o be_v esteem_v as_o forewarning_n of_o more_o and_o more_o heavy_a calamity_n to_o come_v upon_o he_o yea_o and_o final_a perdition_n also_o if_o he_o do_v not_o repent_v 3._o in_o which_o case_n the_o afflict_a shall_v do_v well_o to_o humble_v himself_o before_o god_n and_o give_v a_o good_a construction_n of_o god_n purpose_n in_o send_v on_o he_o such_o calamity_n in_o regard_n when_o he_o may_v forthwith_o have_v destroy_v the_o sinner_n he_o have_v send_v forth_o these_o sad_a affliction_n to_o waken_v his_o conscience_n and_o to_o warn_v he_o to_o fly_v from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v lest_o he_o perish_v utter_o 4._o he_o shall_v do_v well_o also_o to_o consider_v with_o himself_o and_o to_o acknowledge_v that_o such_o a_o bitter_a potion_n be_v necessary_a in_o so_o deadly_a and_o desperat-like_a disease_n as_o his_o soul_n be_v lie_v into_o for_o what_o shall_v the_o lord_n do_v unto_o those_o who_o despise_v the_o worth_n of_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o of_o eternal_a life_n and_o do_v seek_v their_o felicity_n in_o vain_a and_o perish_a pleasure_n profit_n and_o honour_n what_o shall_v he_o do_v with_o those_o who_o he_o will_v not_o suffer_v to_o perish_v with_o this_o evil_a world_n but_o break_v their_o idol_n in_o piece_n and_o put_v themselves_o to_o grief_n who_o vex_v his_o holy_a spirit_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a read_v his_o sin_n in_o the_o rod_n wherewith_o he_o be_v beat_v if_o he_o be_v deprive_v of_o temporal_a good_n or_o earthly_a comfort_n which_o he_o have_v abuse_v to_o the_o hazard_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n let_v god_n have_v the_o glory_n of_o his_o justice_n and_o mercy_n also_o in_o that_o he_o by_o cut_v off_o earthly_a thing_n from_o he_o be_v send_v he_o to_o seek_v thing_n spiritual_a and_o everlasting_a in_o heaven_n where_o christ_n be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n col._n 3._o 2._o if_o he_o be_v vex_v with_o tentation_n unto_o blasphemy_n and_o such_o horrid_a fearful_a sin_n which_o even_a nature_n do_v abhor_v let_v he_o consider_v that_o misbelief_n of_o threaten_n and_o promise_n be_v no_o less_o in_o effect_n than_o real_a assert_v of_o blasphemy_n and_o that_o entertain_v of_o sinful_a lust_n which_o fight_v against_o his_o soul_n be_v in_o effect_n a_o defile_n and_o destroy_v of_o his_o own_o soul_n by_o which_o affliction_n and_o tentation_n if_o the_o afflict_a take_v not_o warn_v and_o repent_v he_o may_v just_o fear_v these_o calamity_n and_o torment_a tentation_n be_v but_o the_o beginning_n of_o sorrow_n but_o if_o these_o calamity_n and_o fearful_a tentation_n befall_v a_o man_n walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n who_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n who_o have_v casten_z his_o anchor_n within_o the_o vail_n and_o study_v in_o any_o measure_n of_o uprightness_n to_o please_v god_n let_v not_o such_o a_o man_n be_v afraid_a for_o god_n be_v not_o pursue_v he_o in_o wrath_n as_o satan_n his_o adversary_n suggest_v but_o as_o a_o most_o wise_a and_o love_a father_n be_v try_v and_o train_v his_o faith_n and_o bring_v forth_o the_o evidence_n of_o grace_n bestow_v upon_o he_o to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o own_o name_n shame_v of_o satan_n and_o edify_v all_o beholder_n of_o this_o man●_n exercise_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a comfort_n himself_o in_o the_o lord_n and_o be_v strong_a in_o the_o faith_n of_o holy_a scripture_n which_o be_v grant_v to_o the_o church_n for_o uphold_v of_o believer_n in_o patience_n and_o hope_n of_o the_o promise_a reward_n for_o even_o job_n the_o holy_a man_n on_o earth_n in_o his_o generation_n be_v both_o sudden_o surprise_v with_o a_o multitude_n of_o concur_v calamity_n and_o also_o deprive_v of_o all_o consolation_n from_o god_n and_o man_n for_o a_o season_n for_o at_o once_o he_o be_v spoil_v of_o all_o his_o good_n deprive_v of_o all_o his_o child_n tempt_v by_o his_o wife_n to_o despair_v despise_v by_o his_o servant_n judge_v to_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n by_o his_o most_o entire_a godly_a friend_n strike_v by_o satan_n with_o a_o unusual_a plague_n of_o botch-biles_a and_o how_o far_o the_o lord_n do_v hide_v all_o comfort_n for_o a_o time_n the_o history_n of_o his_o complaint_n make_v evident_a yea_o our_o bless_a lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v sanctify_v in_o his_o own_o person_n the_o hard_a exercise_n of_o this_o sort_n which_o his_o child_n can_v fall_v into_o for_o albeit_o he_o can_v not_o be_v defile_v with_o sin_n yet_o he_o be_v tempt_v of_o satan_n unto_o most_o abominable_a sin_n in_o special_a he_o be_v tempt_v to_o cast_v himself_o down_o from_o the_o pinnacle_n of_o the_o temple_n which_o be_v to_o kill_v himself_o he_o be_v tempt_v to_o fall_v down_o and_o worship_v the_o devil_n which_o o_o how_o horrible_a blasphemy_n be_v it_o yea_o for_o a_o time_n power_n be_v give_v to_o satan_n albeit_o not_o to_o hurt_v christ_n yet_o to_o carry_v his_o body_n from_o one_o place_n to_o another_o as_o we_o read_v in_o matth._n 4._o and_o therefore_o let_v this_o be_v for_o consolation_n to_o such_o of_o god_n child_n as_o be_v vex_v with_o vile_a and_o blasphemous_a tentation_n and_o solistation_n to_o abominable_a sin_n heb._n 2._o 18._o for_o in_o that_o our_o lord_n himself_o have_v suffer_v be_v tempt_v he_o be_v able_a to_o succour_v they_o that_o be_v tempt_v 4._o but_o if_o the_o afflict_a insist_v and_o say_v he_o be_v so_o put_v to_o it_o by_o satan_n tentation_n to_o commit_v sin_n against_o his_o light_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o succumb_v because_o he_o neither_o have_v strength_n in_o himself_o to_o
thing_n to_o come_v and_o the_o gift_n of_o work_a miracle_n and_o the_o gift_n of_o preach_v the_o gospel_n may_v be_v grant_v unto_o the_o unregenerat_a for_o the_o use_n and_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n the_o observe_v of_o this_o difference_n shall_v teach_v the_o afflict_a to_o esteem_v well_o of_o all_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n which_o may_v serve_v for_o humane_a society_n or_o to_o edify_v the_o church_n but_o not_o to_o look_v upon_o they_o as_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n for_o they_o be_v nothing_o in_o comparison_n of_o save_a grace_n for_o if_o he_o shall_v study_v to_o humility_n and_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n and_o love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n and_o to_o a_o holy_a life_n by_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n in_o any_o measure_n let_v he_o esteem_v more_o of_o they_o then_o of_o all_o these_o common_a gift_n how_o glorious_a soever_o they_o seem_v as_o also_o let_v he_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n concern_v other_o man_n estate_n which_o content_v itself_o with_o probability_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o certainty_n and_o real_a verity_n concern_v his_o own_o estate_n which_o proceed_v from_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n bearing_z witness_n to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o reveal_v unto_o we_o what_o thing_n be_v free_o give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n to_o wit_n among_o other_o gift_n give_v unto_o we_o eyesalve_n to_o make_v we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v blind_a poor_a naked_a and_o miserable_a with_o grace_n lead_v we_o to_o buy_v without_o money_n or_o price_n from_o christ_n gold_n try_v in_o the_o fire_n and_o garment_n to_o hide_v our_o nakedness_n which_o be_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n impute_v unto_o we_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n concern_v other_o man_n estate_n we_o see_v nothing_o save_o what_o be_v outward_a and_o can_v pierce_v into_o their_o heart_n which_o god_n only_o can_v and_o do_v search_v but_o concern_v our_o own_o estate_n we_o may_v know_v certain_o if_o we_o search_v well_o 1_o cor._n 2._o 10_o 11_o 12._o wherefore_o that_o the_o afflict_a may_v overcome_v this_o doubt_n let_v he_o leave_v unto_o god_n the_o judgement_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o these_o hypocrite_n and_o apostat_n which_o be_v never_o humble_v in_o 〈◊〉_d sense_n of_o sin_n nor_o serious_o believe_v in_o christ_n but_o to_o satisfy_v himself_o concern_v his_o own_o estate_n let_v he_o study_v to_o discern_v the_o power_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o more_o and_o more_o and_o daily_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o and_o the_o more_o he_o discern_v the_o loathsomnesse_n of_o sin_n in_o himself_o let_v he_o the_o more_o hearty_o embrace_v christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o consecrat_v himself_o whole_o unto_o he_o that_o in_o his_o furniture_n draw_v by_o faith_n out_o of_o christ_n he_o may_v bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n and_o add_v one_o virtue_n to_o another_o and_o so_o shall_v he_o be_v sure_a that_o he_o have_v pass_v the_o perfection_n of_o the_o unregenerat_a and_o be_v a_o true_a subject_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n effectual_o call_v and_o elect_v of_o god_n unto_o eternal_a life_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o chap._n fourteen_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n because_o some_o godly_a person_n look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o hypocrite_n some_o true_a convert_n do_v suspect_v themselves_o not_o to_o be_v true_a convert_n because_o some_o of_o the_o godly_a of_o their_o acquaintance_n who_o judgement_n otherways_o be_v not_o to_o be_v light_o reject_v not_o only_o do_v suspect_v they_o to_o be_v hypocrite_n but_o by_o word_n speak_v of_o they_o and_o behaviour_n towards_o they_o declare_v their_o judgement_n of_o they_o 2._o this_o tentation_n do_v not_o a_o little_a afflict_v the_o weak_a in_o faith_n who_o of_o themselves_o be_v ready_a to_o call_v in_o question_n their_o own_o conversion_n and_o when_o they_o perceive_v their_o own_o suspicion_n of_o themselves_o to_o be_v as_o it_o be_v confirm_v by_o the_o suspicion_n and_o testimony_n of_o some_o saint_n howsoever_o rash_o judge_v other_o man_n heart_n no_o wonder_n the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n question_v whether_o they_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n grow_v strong_a against_o they_o by_o this_o stratagem_n satan_n use_v to_o assault_v the_o strong_a in_o faith_n and_o to_o vex_v they_o at_o least_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o job_n who_o faith_n be_v mighty_o assault_v when_o his_o godly_a friend_n mistake_v his_o affliction_n and_o condemn_v he_o as_o a_o wicked_a hypocrite_n the_o like_a we_o see_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o prophet_n ps._n 38._o 11._o when_o his_o friend_n stand_v aloof_o from_o his_o plague_n 3._o for_o strengthen_v the_o afflict_a under_o this_o tentation_n first_o let_v he_o examine_v himself_o so_o much_o the_o more_o acurat_o because_o of_o the_o suspicion_n that_o the_o godly_a have_v of_o he_o after_o which_o examination_n if_o he_o find_v any_o measure_n of_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n in_o himself_o and_o of_o faith_n fly_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n and_o of_o endeavour_n to_o live_v holy_o righteous_o and_o sober_o albeit_o join_v with_o much_o infirmity_n and_o manifold_a imperfection_n let_v he_o not_o cast_v away_o his_o confidence_n but_o rather_o strengthen_v what_o he_o find_v of_o the_o lord_n gracious_a work_n in_o he_o although_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o ready_a to_o die_v second_o let_v he_o consider_v whether_o this_o exercise_n and_o affliction_n be_v a_o correction_n from_o god_n chastise_v he_o for_o his_o rash_a judgement_n of_o other_o who_o possible_o he_o have_v wound_v with_o such_o rash_a suspicion_n of_o they_o but_o whether_o he_o find_v this_o or_o not_o let_v he_o not_o despise_v this_o exercise_n but_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n in_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o relic_n of_o hypocrisy_n in_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n in_o who_o mouth_n there_o be_v no_o guile_n that_o he_o may_v be_v clothe_v with_o his_o righteousness_n head_n and_o foot_n and_o let_v he_o study_v unto_o more_o and_o more_o sincerity_n that_o he_o may_v approve_v himself_o to_o god_n and_o to_o discreet_a judge_n of_o his_o conversation_n and_o let_v he_o not_o alienat_fw-la himself_n altogether_o so_o far_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v from_o they_o by_o who_o suspicion_n his_o faith_n and_o good_a name_n have_v be_v wound_v but_o in_o humility_n and_o charity_n towards_o they_o in_o the_o constant_a follow_v of_o piety_n towards_o god_n and_o righteousness_n towards_o man_n labour_v to_o commend_v himself_o to_o all_o man_n conscience_n and_o in_o so_o do_v he_o need_v not_o stand_v for_o the_o rash_a judgement_n of_o any_o man_n for_o by_o so_o do_v job_n be_v victorious_a over_o this_o tentation_n in_o his_o conflict_n with_o his_o friend_n and_o it_o be_v sure_a that_o man_n may_v be_v deceive_v in_o their_o judgement_n of_o other_o man_n estate_n for_o first_o the_o ignorance_n of_o another_o man_n heart_n make_v the_o judge_n to_o judge_v what_o he_o know_v not_o it_o be_v true_a god_n have_v grant_v unto_o his_o child_n liberty_n according_a to_o his_o word_n to_o judge_v of_o the_o action_n of_o other_o man_n and_o from_o their_o action_n to_o judge_v of_o their_o condition_n and_o temper_n in_o relation_n to_o those_o action_n but_o to_o judge_v of_o their_o state_n who_o outward_o do_v what_o be_v right_a do_v not_o belong_v to_o man_n but_o to_o god_n who_o have_v reserve_v to_o himself_o the_o search_n of_o every_o man_n heart_n and_o only_o know_v who_o be_v the_o upright_a and_o who_o be_v the_o hypocrite_n who_o be_v the_o wise_a and_o who_o be_v the_o foolish_a virgin_n the_o outward_a conversation_n of_o both_o be_v like_o one_o to_o another_o again_o to_o know_v another_o man_n manner_n engine_n inclination_n and_o way_n of_o his_o life_n do_v require_v long_o converse_v with_o he_o comparison_n of_o his_o action_n one_o with_o another_o and_o a_o prudent_a conjunction_n of_o all_o sign_n of_o his_o inward_a disposition_n before_o a_o discreet_a charitable_a judgement_n can_v be_v have_v of_o he_o and_o whosoever_o do_v judge_v rash_o of_o other_o man_n heart_n do_v not_o well_o know_v their_o own_o heart_n or_o of_o what_o spirit_n they_o be_v in_o judge_v for_o many_o presume_v too_o much_o to_o justify_v their_o own_o condition_n and_o state_n and_o make_v themselves_o to_o be_v as_o rule_n and_o pattern_n unto_o other_o and_o so_o become_v too_o too_o rigid_a censurer_n and_o severe_a judge_n of_o other_o man_n condition_n and_o state_n except_o they_o find_v it_o like_v to_o their_o own_o and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o
dissimilitude_n of_o manner_n or_o discrepance_n of_o judgement_n or_o contention_n about_o any_o mater_fw-la than_o partiality_n hinder_v a_o right_a judgement_n one_o of_o another_o and_o affection_n mar_v reason_n many_o time_n that_o it_o can_v discern_v what_o be_v right_a therefore_o let_v the_o person_n afflict_v with_o this_o tentation_n turn_v himself_o to_o god_n who_o search_v the_o reins_n and_o let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o his_o sight_n renew_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o let_v he_o apply_v to_o himself_o what_o the_o scripture_n do_v pronounce_v of_o these_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n do_v fly_v to_o christ_n jesus_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o amendment_n of_o their_o life_n for_o so_o do_v the_o prophet_n in_o the_o whole_a psal._n 17._o when_o he_o have_v to_o do_v with_o his_o uncharitable_a friend_n and_o kinsfolk_n and_o so_o let_v the_o afflict_a do_v chap._n xv._n wherein_o the_o convert_v doubt_v of_o his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n so_o oft_o as_o he_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n be_v examine_v and_o answer_v so●e_fw-la true_a convert_n be_v who_o indeed_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n and_o give_v evident_a proof_n of_o the_o indwelling_a of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o they_o and_o do_v rejoice_v now_o and_o then_o in_o god_n their_o saviour_n when_o his_o love_n to_o they_o be_v shed_v abroad_o in_o their_o heart_n but_o when_o a_o cloud_n come_v over_o their_o eye_n and_o they_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o warm_a beam_n of_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n shine_v in_o their_o soul_n as_o they_o before_o have_v feel_v they_o be_v assault_v with_o doubt_v if_o any_o save_a grace_n be_v in_o they_o at_o all_o and_o do_v entertain_v these_o tentation_n ofttimes_o so_o far_o as_o to_o suspect_v and_o express_v in_o word_n that_o there_o be_v no_o solid_a faith_n in_o themselves_o no_o lively_a hope_n no_o christian_n charity_n no_o mortification_n of_o sin_n no_o purity_n of_o heart_n and_o such_o like_a if_o when_o they_o be_v thus_o tempt_v and_o toss_v they_o lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n as_o in_o their_o first_o conversion_n and_o find_v the_o sensible_a comfort_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n apply_v unto_o they_o than_o all_o be_v well_o their_o doubt_v be_v overcome_v for_o the_o time_n they_o rejoice_v and_o praise_n god_n but_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v delay_v for_o his_o own_o wise_a end_n to_o renew_v their_o sensible_a consolation_n and_o to_o renew_v the_o earnest-penny_n of_o their_o inheritance_n forthwith_o they_o begin_v to_o doubt_v again_o and_o to_o hearken_v to_o satan_n suggestion_n and_o to_o suspect_v that_o their_o former_a feeling_n be_v but_o temporary_a and_o not_o the_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o at_o length_n break_v forth_o in_o many_o sad_a complaint_n and_o in_o a_o word_n they_o do_v not_o maintain_v the_o work_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o themselves_o long_a than_o the_o sun_n shine_v of_o spiritual_a feel_v consolation_n abide_v with_o they_o and_o albeit_o their_o exercise_n be_v no_o way_n so_o hard_a as_o be_v the_o prophet_n psal._n 77._o yet_o they_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o same_o complaint_n which_o the_o prophet_n express_v ver_fw-la 7_o 8_o 9_o will_v the_o lord_n cast_v off_o for_o ever_o and_o will_v he_o be_v favourable_a no_o more_o be_v his_o mercy_n clean_o go_v for_o ever_o do_v his_o promise_n fail_v for_o evermore_o have_v god_n forget_v to_o be_v gracious_a have_v he_o in_o anger_n shut_v up_o his_o tender_a mercy_n 2._o for_o clear_v of_o this_o case_n two_o disease_n may_v be_v perceive_v in_o the_o afflict_a which_o be_v here_o describe_v the_o one_o be_v this_o the_o afflict_a set_v himself_o to_o live_v rather_o by_o sense_n then_o by_o faith_n and_o do_v put_v his_o faith_n on_o work_n of_o set_a purpose_n that_o he_o may_v obtain_v or_o recover_v consolation_n short_o but_o if_o his_o desire_n be_v not_o short_o grant_v he_o make_v not_o use_v of_o the_o former_o feel_v consolation_n to_o strengthen_v his_o own_o ●aith_n when_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v the_o other_o sickness_n be_v this_o the_o afflict_a do_v not_o take_v up_o the_o nature_n of_o save_a grace_n nor_o perceive_v the_o beauty_n thereof_o except_o in_o the_o sunshine_n of_o sensible_a divine_a approbation_n thereof_o he_o do_v not_o take_v up_o the_o right_a definition_n or_o description_n of_o save_a grace_n for_o sai_z be_v to_o he_o nothing_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o full_a persuasion_n except_o he_o can_v pour_v forth_o tear_n always_o he_o think_v he_o do_v not_o repent_v except_o he_o find_v a_o joyful_a expectation_n of_o christ_n come_v in_o glory_n he_o think_v his_o hope_n not_o lively_a and_o so_o of_o charity_n and_o patience_n temperance_n righteousness_n and_o holiness_n if_o he_o do_v not_o find_v they_o in_o some_o eminent_a measur_n as_o they_o may_v near●by_o stand_v before_o the_o law_n the_o afflict_a of_o who_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v think_v he_o have_v nothing_o of_o save_v grace_n in_o he_o we_o grant_v that_o this_o sickness_n be_v very_o rare_a and_o few_o they_o be_v that_o be_v trouble_v with_o it_o yet_o where_o it_o appear_v it_o must_v be_v speedy_o cure_v but_o with_o great_a circumspection_n cure_v for_o the_o earnest_n desire_v he_o have_v of_o feel_v the_o sweet_a sense_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n must_v not_o be_v disallow_v but_o commend_v to_o he_o and_o he_o teach_v to_o cry_v as_o it_o be_v say_v cant._n 2._o 5._o stay_v i_o with_o flagon_n comfort_v i_o with_o apple_n for_o i_o be_o sick_a of_o love_n yet_o with_o holy_a submission_n unto_o god_n will_n for_o time_n manner_n and_o measure_n 2._o he_o be_v also_o to_o be_v commend_v that_o in_o his_o trouble_n he_o go_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n not_o altogether_o without_o faith_n which_o he_o put_v forth_o in_o active_a exercise_n thereof_o by_o confession_n of_o sin_n by_o supplication_n and_o otherways_o but_o here_o be_v he_o to_o be_v reprove_v that_o while_o he_o be_v actual_o exercise_v faith_n love_n hope_v etc._n etc._n he_o reckon_v all_o he_o do_v to_o be_v nothing_o no_o faith_n no_o hope_n etc._n etc._n because_o it_o be_v not_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n as_o he_o will_v 3._o he_o be_v to_o be_v commend_v that_o he_o do_v aim_n at_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o faith_n love_n hope_v patience_n mortification_n of_o sin_n and_o practice_n of_o holiness_n and_o all_o command_v virtue_n but_o here_o he_o fail_v that_o he_o count_v all_o as_o nought_o when_o consolation_n and_o sensible_a approbation_n of_o what_o he_o have_v be_v not_o feel_v for_o here_o he_o despise_v the_o day_n of_o small_a thing_n and_o unthankful_o misregardeth_a the_o low_a degree_n of_o these_o save_a grace_n which_o notwithstanding_o be_v buy_v to_o the_o redeem_v by_o the_o same_o price_n wherewith_o the_o high_a degree_n be_v buy_v to_o wit_n with_o the_o precious_a blood_n of_o jesus_n christ._n 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v first_o that_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v require_v of_o we_o that_o we_o walk_v by_o faith_n and_o under_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o sinfulness_n and_o affliction_n whatsoever_o hold_v fast_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o by_o adhere_v unto_o he_o hold_v up_o our_o heart_n and_o entertain_v spiritual_a life_n in_o we_o second_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o this_o way_n of_o live_v by_o faith_n and_o dependence_n on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n do_v please_v the_o lord_n well_o for_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v he_o and_o thus_o live_v by_o faith_n in_o he_o do_v give_v more_o glory_n of_o truth_n grace_n mercy_n and_o constancy_n unto_o god_n then_o when_o we_o suspend_v the_o glorify_v of_o he_o till_o we_o find_v the_o sense_n of_o consolation_n from_o he_o for_o if_o we_o believe_v in_o god_n only_o because_o we_o find_v the_o consolation_n of_o his_o spirit_n our_o faith_n in_o that_o case_n be_v weak_a and_o lean_v more_o upon_o the_o pledge_n and_o sensible_a evidence_n of_o his_o truth_n bestow_v upon_o we_o then_o upon_o his_o promise_n without_o a_o pledge_n for_o no_o man_n will_v refuse_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o a_o man_n upon_o a_o pawn_n but_o god_n be_v worthy_a to_o be_v credit_v upon_o his_o word_n without_o a_o pawn_n yea_o when_o his_o dispensation_n seem_v contrary_a to_o his_o promise_n three_o let_v he_o consider_v that_o the_o lord_n use_v to_o give_v sensible_a consolation_n not_o only_o to_o help_v our_o faith_n in_o the_o time_n of_o consolation_n but_o also_o to_o help_v our_o
be_v convert_v 2._o this_o ground_n of_o judge_v of_o man_n conversion_n by_o the_o manner_n of_o god_n exercise_v of_o they_o so_o as_o other_o convert_a saint_n have_v be_v exercise_v before_o they_o and_o of_o judge_v the_o man_n to_o be_v unregenerat_a who_o be_v otherways_o exercise_v than_o they_o know_v any_o convert_n to_o have_v be_v exercise_v do_v deceive_v the_o friend_n of_o job_n who_o in_o job_n face_n avow_v this_o their_o error_n job_n 5._o 1._o call_v now_o say_v they_o if_o their_o be_v any_o that_o will_v answer_v thou_o and_o unto_o which_o of_o the_o saint_n will_v thou_o turn_v that_o be_v name_v any_o example_n of_o any_o upright_a man_n who_o have_v be_v deal_v with_o by_o god_n as_o thou_o be_v and_o what_o saint_n or_o holy_a man_n can_v thou_o name_v to_o who_o thou_o can_v compare_v thyself_o and_o say_v such_o a_o man_n have_v suffer_v such_o thing_n as_o i_o do_v this_o doubt_n do_v arise_v from_o this_o error_n and_o mistake_n the_o afflict_a do_v without_o ground_n suppose_v that_o express_a example_n of_o every_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v set_v down_o in_o scripture_n it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v example_n of_o many_o case_n which_o may_v befall_v the_o godly_a but_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v expect_v that_o we_o sh●ll_v find_v example_n of_o every_o particular_a exercise_n of_o mind_n wherein_o the_o saint_n may_v fall_v for_o as_o the_o evangeh_v say_v if_o all_o particular_n be_v write_v the_o world_n can_v not_o hold_v or_o make_v use_n thereof_o it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o the_o scripture_n have_v set_v down_o rule_n whereunto_o the_o saint_n shall_v labour_v to_o conform_v themselves_o and_o that_o it_o have_v open_v up_o the_o cause_n and_o remedy_n of_o all_o spiritual_a disease_n and_o have_v give_v so_o many_o example_n as_o may_v clear_v the_o rule_n it_o be_v also_o a_o mistake_n to_o make_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o most_o exercise_v soldier_n a_o rule_n for_o every_o saint_n exercise_n or_o to_o think_v that_o any_o man_n can_v know_v the_o variety_n of_o case_n which_o befall_v the_o saint_n for_o there_o be_v many_o who_o case_n be_v not_o reveal_v to_o any_o but_o lay_v open_a unto_o god_n only_o by_o prayer_n and_o be_v help_v by_o faith_n in_o christ._n 3._o wherefore_o the_o afflict_a must_v walk_v by_o rule_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n whether_o he_o find_v the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o scripture_n or_o not_o now_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o whatsoever_o evil_a condition_n we_o fall_v into_o whatsoever_o tentation_n whatsoever_o pollution_n have_v defile_v our_o conscience_n we_o must_v humble_v ourselves_o before_o god_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o the_o guiltiness_n for_o wash_v away_o the_o filthiness_n thereof_o for_o break_v down_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n and_o pull_v out_o the_o root_n thereof_o withal_o praise_v and_o thank_v christ_n who_o have_v discover_v unto_o we_o these_o evil_n and_o have_v make_v they_o our_o affliction_n and_o not_o suffer_v they_o to_o break_v forth_o to_o the_o scandal_n of_o other_o and_o whatsoever_o calamity_n or_o temporal_a misery_n we_o shall_v fall_v into_o the_o scripture_n have_v give_v order_n unto_o we_o humble_o to_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o god_n dispensation_n and_o to_o make_v a_o good_a construction_n of_o god_n love_n and_o wisdom_n in_o exercise_v we_o so_o for_o by_o this_o rule_n job_n do_v walk_v defend_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n his_o live_n and_o love_a redeemer_n against_o satan_n temptation_n and_o his_o friend_n uncharitable_a wrangle_a disputation_n when_o the_o question_n be_v about_o his_o state_n whether_o he_o have_v ever_o be_v convert_v or_o not_o whether_o he_o be_v a_o wicked_a hypocrite_n or_o not_o and_o by_o so_o do_v he_o over-came_a the_o temptation_n whereof_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v and_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a lie_v it_o for_o a_o ground_n that_o by_o his_o hear_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o another_o like_v unto_o his_o condition_n he_o can_v be_v cure_v because_o no_o example_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o another_o can_v be_v find_v so_o quadrant_a unto_o his_o condition_n as_o he_o can_v thereby_o take_v satisfaction_n for_o as_o in_o compare_v of_o man_n face_n one_o with_o another_o such_o be_v the_o incomprehensible_a variety_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o god_n wisdom_n in_o frame_v they_o some_o difference_n and_o dissimilitude_n will_v be_v find_v betwixt_o face_n and_o face_n so_o in_o compare_v of_o the_o case_n of_o the_o saint_n none_o of_o they_o can_v be_v find_v in_o all_o thing_n so_o like_o one_o to_o another_o but_o some_o dissimilitude_n shall_v be_v find_v between_o they_o wherefore_o the_o afflict_a shall_v do_v well_o in_o every_o condition_n to_o draw_v near_o god_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o heart_n before_o he_o at_o all_o time_n for_o god_n be_v a_o refuge_n for_o we_o in_o all_o case_n ps._n 62._o 8._o chap._n xx._n wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v convert_v because_o he_o do_v not_o find_v in_o himself_o the_o infallible_a mark_n of_o regeneration_n some_o true_a convert_n sometime_o be_v in_o suspense_n doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v indeed_o convert_v because_o they_o do_v not_o discern_v in_o themselves_o the_o unquestionable_a evidence_n of_o their_o conversion_n and_o albeit_o they_o have_v the_o undoubted_a mark_n of_o regeneration_n to_o wit_n the_o daily_a conviction_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o do_v fly_v daily_o by_o faith_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o be_v endeavour_v in_o some_o measure_n of_o sincerity_n to_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o commandment_n concern_v love_n to_o god_n and_o the_o brethren_n yet_o they_o there_fw-mi not_o defend_v the_o sincerity_n of_o these_o evidence_n because_o of_o the_o discern_a imperfection_n thereof_o for_o when_o they_o do_v compare_v these_o mark_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n with_o the_o rule_n they_o find_v much_o halt_n and_o short-coming_a therein_o in_o special_a they_o find_v their_o sense_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v but_o weak_a their_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v weak_a and_o their_o fail_n and_o short-coming_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o their_o neighbour_n to_o be_v many_o so_o that_o they_o scarce_o there_fw-mi allow_v these_o begin_v save_v grace_n the_o name_n of_o save_v grace_n and_o among_o other_o defect_n they_o reckon_v their_o not_o feel_v of_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o the_o convert_a galatian_n gal._n 4._o 6._o because_o you_o be_v son_n say_v he_o god_n have_v send_v forth_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o son_n into_o your_o heart_n cry_v abba_n father_n and_o ephes._n 1._o 13._o in_o who_o after_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o spirit_n of_o promise_n and_o of_o adoption_n seal_v believer_n they_o conceive_v be_v know_v and_o discern_v in_o the_o apostle_n time_n by_o every_o believer_n feel_v in_o himself_o 2._o for_o solve_v of_o this_o doubt_n something_o be_v speak_v before_o concern_v the_o imperfect_a fruit_n of_o faith_n the_o buddding_n and_o blossom_a whereof_o be_v not_o despise_v by_o christ_n cant._n 2._o 13._o and_o 6._o 12._o but_o that_o this_o doubt_n may_v be_v more_o full_o answer_v let_v we_o take_v up_o the_o cause_n thereof_o 1._o one_o cause_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a albeit_o together_o with_o the_o endeavour_n to_o lead_v a_o blameless_a life_n he_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o grace_n of_o prayer_n and_o look_v on_o god_n as_o his_o father_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o take_v up_o this_o work_n of_o god_n in_o he_o to_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n illuminate_v his_o mind_n about_o duty_n frame_v his_o will_n and_o affection_n unto_o new_a obedience_n stir_v he_o up_o to_o prayer_n and_o help_v he_o in_o prayer_n but_o in_o the_o earnest_n desire_v he_o have_v to_o find_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o a_o large_a measure_n of_o evidence_n he_o do_v not_o mark_v the_o present_a operation_n but_o do_v slight_v it_o as_o nothing_o or_o do_v not_o esteem_v of_o it_o as_o become_v and_o so_o in_o his_o advertance_n raise_v and_o foster_v doubt_n in_o himself_o which_o do_v keep_v his_o faith_n in_o chain_n for_o remove_v of_o which_o cause_n let_v the_o afflict_a observe_v the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o mean_a degree_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o comfort_n and_o thanksgiving_n unto_o god_n as_o narrow_o as_o he_o do_v observe_v in_o himself_o the_o first_o motion_n of_o sin_n and_o stir_n of_o corruption_n for_o his_o own_o humiliation_n and_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n for_o wrong_a judgement_n under_o pretext_n of_o humility_n do_v
not_o please_v god_n now_o it_o be_v a_o act_n of_o injustice_n not_o to_o give_v unto_o god_n the_o praise_n of_o every_o good_a thing_n in_o a_o man_n especial_o when_o the_o man_n be_v find_v to_o be_v cast_v down_o in_o himself_o and_o to_o be_v thirst_v in_o his_o soul_n for_o a_o more_o intimate_fw-la communion_n with_o christ_n as_o be_v presuppose_v in_o this_o case_n 3._o the_o second_o cause_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a albeit_o he_o have_v have_v oft_o time_n sweet_a and_o sensible_a consolation_n and_o confirmation_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o have_v thereby_o be_v put_v out_o of_o doubt_n of_o his_o adoption_n for_o the_o time_n yet_o when_o new_a temptation_n do_v arise_v according_a to_o what_o be_v expedient_a for_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n because_o the_o same_o sweetness_n be_v not_o feel_v but_o heaviness_n for_o the_o while_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 6_o 7._o he_o forget_v the_o consolation_n he_o have_v have_v or_o suffer_v they_o to_o be_v call_v in_o question_n for_o remove_v whereof_o whensoever_o the_o afflict_a be_v cut_v short_a in_o the_o point_n of_o sense_n or_o sensible_a consolation_n let_v he_o then_o strive_v to_o abound_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o not_o slacken_v his_o hand_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o his_o lawful_a call_n and_o his_o endeavour_n to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n for_o see_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n embrace_v be_v a_o firm_a and_o solid_a ground_n for_o ●aith_n to_o fix_v upon_o albeit_o full_a persuasion_n and_o victorious_a consolation_n be_v neither_o at_o all_o or_o but_o very_o rare_o ●elt_v in_o this_o life_n the_o afflict_a who_o we_o have_v to_o speak_v to_o here_o have_v no_o cause_n to_o stumble_v but_o reason_n to_o bless_v god_n who_o have_v in_o any_o measure_n at_o any_o time_n comfort_v he_o by_o the_o gospel_n for_o that_o condition_n which_o the_o afflict_a wish_v for_o be_v reserve_v unto_o we_o in_o heaven_n and_o promise_n such_o as_o be_v make_v to_o the_o meek_a and_o merciful_a mat._n 5._o which_o qualify_v promise_n they_o look_v upon_o as_o conditional_a exclude_v they_o as_o they_o conceive_v who_o do_v not_o find_v in_o themselves_o such_o qualification_n and_o partly_o because_o they_o be_v not_o clear_a about_o their_o right_n to_o receive_v the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n because_o they_o want_v as_o they_o conceive_v fitness_n in_o themselves_o to_o receive_v the_o same_o and_o thus_o be_v they_o ofttimes_o vex_v with_o doubt_n whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o 2._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n sundry_a thing_n be_v already_o say_v by_o the_o way_n in_o answer_v other_o doubtful_a case_n but_o because_o many_o do_v meet_v with_o this_o difficulty_n we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a more_o particular_o to_o the_o case_n and_o first_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o the_o afflict_a be_v confirm_v about_o that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o he_o that_o the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v may_v be_v strengthen_v to_o this_o intent_n we_o commend_v the_o afflict_a that_o be_v sensible_a of_o sin_n and_o fear_v for-wrath_n he_o have_v flee_v unto_o christ_n for_o refuge_n next_o we_o commend_v he_o that_o he_o have_v begin_v to_o give_v new_a obedience_n to_o god_n law_n and_o do_v purpose_n to_o follow_v on_o as_o he_o shall_v be_v enable_v and_o three_o we_o commend_v he_o that_o albeit_o he_o can_v attain_v that_o near_a conjunction_n with_o christ_n which_o he_o will_v yet_o he_o neither_o will_v nor_o dare_v forsake_v christ_n not_o put_v himself_o out_o of_o the_o number_n of_o weak_a believer_n in_o christ_n for_o he_o have_v say_v in_o his_o heart_n with_o peter_n joh._n 6._o 68_o to_o who_o shall_v i_o go_v for_o christ_n have_v the_o word_n of_o eternal_a life_n hitherto_o all_o be_v right_a and_o the_o afflict_a must_v resolve_v to_o cleave_v close_o to_o this_o foundation_n because_o christ_n have_v say_v joh._n 6._o 37._o these_o that_o come_v unto_o i_o i_o will_v in_o no_o case_n cast_v out_o 3._o for_o his_o doubt_n arise_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o promise_n absolute_a conditional_a and_o qualify_v look_v upon_o by_o he_o as_o if_o they_o be_v conditional_a we_o answer_v ●_o that_o these_o qualify_a promise_n have_v some_o mark_n in_o they_o of_o true_a believer_n be_v not_o exclusive_a of_o these_o believer_n who_o find_v in_o themselves_o a_o defect_n of_o the_o qualification_n but_o they_o be_v inductive_a unto_o all_o believer_n to_o study_v the_o attain_n of_o that_o qualification_n and_o be_v corroborative_n of_o these_o beliver_v who_o find_v in_o any_o sensible_a measure_n these_o qualification_n for_o example_n promise_v make_v to_o the_o merciful_a to_o the_o peacemaker_n to_o the_o upright_a in_o heart_n do_v not_o exclude_v these_o who_o find_v themselves_o short_a in_o these_o grace_n and_o yet_o be_v hungry_a and_o thirsty_a for_o righteousness_n yet_o be_v poor_a and_o indigent_a of_o all_o good_a in_o themselves_o and_o daily_a beggar_n at_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o what_o they_o want_v mat._n 5._o for_o these_o qualification_n find_v in_o a_o weak_a believer_n be_v sign_n and_o effect_n of_o sound_a faith_n in_o they_o and_o we_o must_v grant_v that_o of_o these_o grace_n specify_v in_o these_o qualify_a promise_n some_o of_o they_o be_v more_o eminent_a in_o some_o of_o the_o saint_n and_o other_o some_o of_o they_o more_o eminent_o see_v and_o feel_v in_o other_o some_o of_o the_o saint_n and_o in_o the_o same_o person_n one_o of_o these_o qualification_n may_v sometime_o shine_v more_o clear_o and_o at_o another_o time_n by_o some_o tentation_n or_o mistake_v be_v overclouded_n and_o not_o shine_v so_o clear_o as_o before_o yet_o the_o qualification_n be_v comfortable_a to_o all_o they_o who_o find_v the_o same_o in_o themselves_o and_o be_v inductive_a to_o make_v every_o believer_n to_o aim_v to_o excel_v in_o these_o grace_n and_o so_o to_o confirm_v their_o own_o faith_n more_o and_o more_o as_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o we_o be_v exhort_v again_o these_o qualification_n be_v sign_n of_o a_o believer_n already_o enter_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o begin_v to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n but_o they_o be_v not_o the_o condition_n of_o enter_v into_o the_o covenant_n for_o than_o none_o can_v enter_v in_o covenant_n till_o first_o these_o qualification_n in_o exercise_n be_v sound_a in_o they_o and_o that_o be_v to_o disannul_a the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o set_v up_o a_o sort_n of_o covenant_n of_o work_n for_o there_o be_v not_o another_o condition_n of_o enter_v in_o the_o covenant_n but_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o whereby_o the_o humble_a sinner_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o any_o good_a in_o himself_o or_o from_o himself_o do_v betake_v himself_o whole_o to_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o who_o perfect_a righteousness_n be_v to_o be_v find_v now_o unto_o the_o man_n who_o shall_v believe_v in_o christ_n all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v make_v upon_o this_o condition_n that_o he_o do_v believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n which_o condition_n of_o presuppose_v the_o afflict_a shall_v have_v what_o he_o wish_v consolation_n always_o run_v like_o a_o river_n where_o be_v place_n for_o try_v exercise_v and_o train_n of_o he_o in_o his_o faith_n but_o let_v he_o work_v and_o wrestle_v on_o and_o among_o hand_n he_o shall_v have_v as_o much_o peace_n as_o may_v suffice_v a_o pilgrim_n 4._o the_o three_o cause_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a have_v grieve_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n either_o by_o ascribe_v his_o gracious_a operation_n to_o some_o other_o cause_n then_o grace_n or_o count_v his_o consolation_n to_o be_v but_o flash_n and_o like_v unto_o delusion_n or_o that_o the_o afflict_a by_o corrupt_a communication_n or_o gross_a offence_n have_v provoke_v god_n to_o anger_n as_o befall_v david_n psal._n 51._o for_o remove_v of_o this_o cause_n whether_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o afflict_a have_v be_v more_o or_o less_o provoke_v let_v he_o with_o david_n ps._n 51._o renew_v the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o god_n mercy_n who_o only_o can_v renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n in_o he_o or_o rather_o restore_v he_o to_o the_o formerly-felt_a consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o let_v he_o walk_v more_o wary_o hereafter_o that_o he_o provoke_v not_o to_o wrath_n so_o merciful_a a_o father_n 5._o the_o four_o cause_n be_v or_o may_v be_v this_o that_o the_o afflict_a albeit_o he_o have_v consent_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o have_v embrace_v christ_n jesus_n offer_v in_o the_o evangel_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o
set_v to_o his_o seal_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n without_o a_o hink_v or_o fear_v and_o suspicion_n of_o his_o right_n to_o apply_v the_o grace_n offer_v in_o which_o case_n so_o long_o as_o he_o doubt_v and_o do_v not_o rest_v his_o sinful_a soul_n on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n offer_v grace_n to_o every_o soul_n sensible_a of_o sin_n who_o shall_v fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n what_o wonder_v the_o holy_a spirit_n do_v withhold_v the_o seal_n of_o the_o man_n faith_n for_o this_o be_v god_n order_n hold_v forth_o ephes._n 1._o 13._o that_o a_o sinner_n shall_v first_o six_z his_o faith_n on_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o after_o he_o have_v believe_v not_o before_o he_o do_v believe_v wait_v for_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n for_o remove_v this_o cause_n 1._o let_v the_o afflict_a acknowledge_v that_o his_o hesitation_n doubt_v and_o suspicion_n be_v just_o chastise_v of_o god_n because_o he_o have_v not_o firm_o adhere_v to_o the_o covenant_n embrace_v by_o he_o and_o because_o he_o have_v not_o give_v unto_o god_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o truth_n without_o a_o pawn_n and_o yet_o do_v in_o effect_n quarrel_n and_o complain_v that_o he_o do_v not_o find_v these_o consolation_n which_o be_v give_v and_o but_o rare_o it_o may_v be_v even_o to_o the_o sound_n and_o strong_a in_o the_o faith_n 2._o let_v he_o for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o his_o faith_n hereafter_o consider_v well_o how_o strong_a and_o solid_a a_o foundation_n faith_n have_v to_o lean_v unto_o even_o god_n promise_n and_o oath_n give_v unto_o all_o that_o do_v fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n and_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n heb._n ●_o 17_o 18._o that_o the_o afflict_a may_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 56._o 10._o sing_v in_o god_n i_o will_v praise_v his_o word_n 3._o let_v the_o afflict_a study_n to_o be_v so_o fast_o glue_v unto_o christ_n in_o every_o condition_n and_o case_n he_o find_v himself_o and_o go_v about_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n and_o new_a obedience_n in_o his_o call_n submit_v himself_o to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o every_o dispensation_n which_o direction_n if_o he_o shall_v aim_v to_o follow_v he_o shall_v not_o want_v the_o fruit_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o honest_a endeavour_n to_o please_v god_n for_o psal._n 97._o 11._o light_n be_v sow_v for_o the_o righteous_a and_o joy_n for_o the_o upright_a in_o heart_n chap._n xxi_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n whether_o he_o be_v indeed_o convert_v because_o he_o can_v confident_o apply_v to_o himself_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o albeit_o for_o fear_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n for_o their_o sin_n be_v already_o flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v hide_v themselves_o under_o the_o wing_n of_o the_o propitiatory_a in_o the_o shadow_n of_o the_o almighty_a mediator_n and_o be_v already_o begin_v in_o earnest_a to_o give_v new_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o from_o time_n to_o time_n they_o fall_v in_o fear_n and_o tremble_a suspicion_n that_o all_o be_v not_o a_o sound_a work_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o that_o partly_o because_o they_o can_v confident_o apply_v to_o themselves_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n whether_o absolute_a such_o as_o be_v make_v to_o the_o elect_n jer._n 31_o 31._o or_o conditional_a such_o as_o be_v make_v to_o believer_n in_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n or_o qualify_v promise_n such_o as_o be_v make_v to_o the_o meek_a and_o merciful_a mat._n 5._o which_o qualify_v promise_n they_o look_v upon_o as_o conditional_a exclude_v they_o as_o they_o conceive_v who_o do_v not_o find_v in_o themselves_o such_o qualification_n and_o partly_o because_o they_o be_v not_o clear_a about_o their_o right_n to_o receive_v the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n because_o they_o want_v as_o they_o conceive_v fitness_n in_o themselves_o to_o receive_v the_o same_o and_o thus_o be_v they_o ofttimes_o vex_v with_o doubt_n whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o not_o 2._o for_o louse_v of_o this_o doubt_n sundry_a thing_n be_v already_o say_v by_o the_o way_n in_o answer_v other_o doubtful_a case_n but_o because_o many_o do_v meet_v with_o this_o difficulty_n we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a more_o particular_o to_o the_o case_n and_o first_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o the_o afflict_a be_v confirm_v about_o that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o he_o that_o the_o thing_n which_o remain_v and_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v may_v be_v strengthen_v to_o this_o intent_n we_o commend_v the_o afflict_a that_o be_v sensible_a of_o sin_n and_o fear_v for-wrath_n he_o have_v flee_v unto_o christ_n for_o refuge_n next_o we_o commend_v he_o that_o he_o have_v begin_v to_o give_v new_a obedience_n to_o god_n law_n and_o do_v purpose_n to_o follow_v on_o as_o he_o shall_v be_v enable_v and_o three_o we_o commend_v he_o that_o albeit_o he_o can_v attain_v that_o near_a conjunction_n with_o christ_n which_o he_o will_v yet_o he_o neither_o will_v nor_o dare_v forsake_v christ_n nor_o put_v himself_o out_o of_o the_o number_n of_o weak_a believer_n in_o christ_n for_o he_o have_v say_v in_o his_o heart_n with_o peter_n joh._n 6._o 68_o to_o who_o shall_v i_o go_v for_o christ_n have_v the_o word_n of_o eternal_a life_n hitherto_o all_o be_v right_a and_o the_o afflict_a must_v resolve_v to_o cleave_v close_o to_o this_o foundation_n because_o christ_n have_v say_v joh._n 6._o 37._o these_o that_o come_v unto_o i_o i_o will_v in_o no_o case_n cast_v out_o 3._o for_o his_o doubt_n arise_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o promise_n absolute_a conditional_a and_o qualify_v look_v upon_o by_o he_o as_o if_o they_o be_v conditional_a we_o answer_v 1._o that_o these_o qualify_a promise_n have_v some_o mark_n in_o they_o of_o true_a believer_n be_v not_o exclusive_a of_o these_o believer_n who_o find_v in_o themselves_o a_o defect_n of_o the_o qualification_n but_o they_o be_v inductive_a unto_o all_o believer_n to_o study_v the_o attain_n of_o that_o qualification_n and_o be_v corroborative_n of_o these_o believer_n who_o find_v in_o any_o sensible_a measure_n these_o qualification_n for_o example_n promise_v make_v to_o the_o merciful_a to_o the_o peacemaker_n to_o the_o upright_a in_o heart_n do_v not_o exclude_v these_o who_o find_v themselves_o short_a in_o these_o grace_n and_o yet_o be_v hungry_a and_o thirsty_a for_o righteousness_n yet_o be_v poor_a and_o indigent_a of_o all_o good_a in_o themselves_o and_o daily_a beggar_n at_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o what_o they_o want_v mat._n 5._o for_o these_o qualification_n sound_v in_o a_o weak_a believer_n be_v sign_n and_o effect_n of_o sound_n say_v in_o they_o and_o we_o must_v grant_v that_o of_o these_o grace_n specify_v in_o these_o qualify_a promise_n some_o of_o they_o be_v more_o eminent_a in_o some_o of_o the_o saint_n and_o other_o some_o of_o they_o more_o eminent_o see_v and_o feel_v in_o other_o some_o of_o the_o saint_n and_o in_o the_o same_o person_n one_o of_o these_o qualification_n may_v sometime_o shine_v more_o clear_o and_o at_o another_o time_n by_o some_o tentation_n or_o mistake_v be_v overclouded_n and_o not_o shine_v so_o clear_o as_o before_o yet_o the_o qualification_n be_v comfortable_a to_o all_o they_o who_o find_v the_o same_o in_o themselves_o and_o be_v inductive_a to_o make_v every_o believer_n to_o aim_v to_o excel_v in_o these_o grace_n and_o so_o to_o confirm_v their_o own_o faith_n more_o and_o more_o as_o 2_o pet._n 1._o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o we_o be_v exhort_v again_o these_o qualification_n be_v sign_n of_o a_o believer_n already_o enter_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o begin_v to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n but_o they_o be_v not_o the_o condition_n of_o enter_v into_o the_o covenant_n for_o than_o none_o can_v enter_v in_o covenant_n till_o first_o these_o qualification_n in_o exercise_n be_v sound_a in_o they_o and_o that_o be_v to_o disannul_a the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o set_v up_o a_o sort_n of_o covenant_n of_o work_n for_o there_o be_v not_o another_o condition_n of_o enter_v in_o the_o covenant_n but_o say_v in_o christ_n only_o whereby_o the_o humble_a sinner_n renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o any_o good_a in_o himself_o or_o from_o himself_o do_v betake_v himself_o whole_o to_o the_o grace_n offer_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o who_o perfect_a righteousness_n be_v to_o be_v find_v now_o unto_o the_o man_n who_o shall_v believe_v in_o christ_n all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v make_v upon_o this_o condition_n that_o he_o do_v believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n which_o condition_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n when_o it_o be_v now_o perform_v and_o by_o the_o
grace_n of_o god_n the_o man_n make_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n than_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o make_v a_o new_a heart_n and_o of_o write_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n therein_o jer._n 31._o 31._o and_o ezek_n 11._o 19_o and_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o save_a grace_n set_v down_o in_o holy_a scripture_n do_v all_o of_o they_o belong_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n in_o who_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o as_o if_o his_o name_n be_v set_v down_o 4._o as_o to_o his_o doubt_n arise_v from_o his_o weak_a and_o infirm_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v what_o god_n have_v already_o wrought_v and_o be_v a_o work_n in_o he_o by_o way_n of_o application_n for_o first_o god_n have_v grant_v to_o he_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n with_o other_o in_o the_o visible_a kirk_n so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v say_v unto_o he_o in_o this_o respect_n as_o it_o be_v esa._n 5._o 4._o what_o can_v be_v do_v in_o outward_a mean_n and_o offer-making_a of_o grace_n which_o be_v not_o do_v second_o god_n have_v draw_v more_o near_o unto_o he_o and_o have_v illuminat_fw-la his_o mind_n about_o his_o sinful_a state_n in_o nature_n and_o about_o the_o way_n of_o delivery_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o yet_o more_o have_v incline_v his_o heart_n to_o accept_v of_o the_o offer_n of_o christ_n and_o make_v answer_n to_o the_o call_v as_o david_n do_v when_o thou_o say_v seek_v my_o face_n my_o soul_n answer_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n will_v i_o seek_v psal._n 27._o 8._o thus_o god_n have_v apply_v christ_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o afflict_a and_o have_v make_v the_o afflict_a to_o fly_v unto_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o apply_v he_o unto_o himself_o that_o hitherto_o the_o afflict_a have_v no_o reason_n to_o complain_v of_o not_o application_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o promise_n on_o god_n part_n nor_o yet_o of_o begun-application_n on_o the_o afflicted_n part_n where_o be_v the●_n in-lake_n then_o i_o answer_v the_o defect_n be_v first_o in_o the_o afflict_a who_o have_v not_o due_o consider_v the_o passage_n of_o god_n gracious_a approach_v to_o he_o and_o draw_v of_o the_o man_n to_o himself_o in_o christ_n another_o defect_n be_v that_o the_o afflict_a upon_o groundless_a mistake_n do_v not_o lay_v claim_n to_o christ_n and_o to_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n for_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n in_o he_o and_o that_o because_o he_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a of_o his_o right_n unto_o and_o interest_n in_o christ_n as_o he_o can_v lay_v claim_n confident_o unto_o the_o same_o 5._o for_o clear_v of_o the_o afflict_a in_o this_o his_o right_a and_o warrant_v confident_o to_o apply_v christ_n and_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n let_v he_o consider_v first_o the_o dreadful_a sentence_n of_o the_o curse_n and_o condemnation_n of_o all_o they_o that_o do_v not_o believe_v on_o christ_n joh._n 3._o 18._o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v not_o condemn_v but_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o be_v condemn_v already_o because_o he_o have_v not_o believe_v in_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n second_o let_v he_o consider_v the_o largeness_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o grace_n be_v offer_v to_o all_o and_o every_o believer_n joh._n 3._o 16._o god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n he_o say_v whosoever_o without_o exception_n lest_o any_o man_n who_o desire_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n shall_v doubt_v that_o he_o shall_v be_v receive_v and_o make_v welcome_a three_o let_v he_o mediate_v upon_o the_o wonderful_a mystery_n of_o the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o that_o he_o may_v ransom_v and_o redeem_v his_o people_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n have_v assume_v humane_a nature_n into_o the_o union_n of_o person_n with_o his_o divine_a nature_n and_o give_v a_o perpetual_a pawn_n and_o pledge_v of_o his_o hearty_a willingness_n to_o reconcile_v justify_v sanctify_v and_o save_v to_o the_o uttermost_a every_o one_o who_o shall_v come_v unto_o god_n through_o he_o whereunto_o his_o mediatory_a office_n and_o clothing_n himself_o with_o most_o sweet_a relation_n of_o prophet_n priest_n and_o king_n to_o all_o his_o follower_n do_v hear_v abundant_a witness_n four_o let_v he_o hearken_v to_o the_o quicken_a and_o comfortable_a invitation_n which_o by_o his_o spirit_n speak_v in_o scripture_n he_o utter_v in_o the_o ear_n of_o all_o to_o who_o the_o gospel_n come_v with_o a_o joyful_a sound_n ho_o every_o one_o that_o thirst_v isa._n 55._o 1._o to_o 10._o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o labour_n and_o be_v heavy_a load_v mat._n 11._o 28._o we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v you_o in_o christ_n stead_n beye_v reconcile_v to_o god_n 2_o cor._n 5._o 20._o and_o whosoever_o will_v let_v he_o take_v the_o water_n of_o life_n free_o rev._n 22._o 17._o five_o let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v what_o answer_n he_o will_v give_v to_o the_o express_a command_n of_o god_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o this_o be_v his_o comandment_n that_o we_o shall_v believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o love_v one_o another_o as_o he_o have_v command_v we_o for_o this_o commandment_n be_v direct_v to_o all_o the_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n charge_v every_o one_o without_o exception_n first_o to_o examine_v serious_o their_o life_n by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n law_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v convince_v of_o their_o damnable_a state_n in_o nature_n and_o make_v to_o acknowledge_v their_o sin_n and_o misery_n and_o inability_n to_o help_v themselves_o second_o have_v examine_v and_o acknowledge_v their_o natural_a lose_a condition_n they_o be_v command_v to_o fly_v to_o jesus_n christ_n that_o by_o faith_n in_o he_o they_o may_v be_v deliver_v three_o that_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n they_o shall_v evidence_n their_o faith_n by_o love_n to_o christ_n or_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o their_o neighbour_n especial_o such_o as_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n in_o which_o commandment_n both_o the_o order_n of_o apply_v law_n and_o gospel_n be_v set_v down_o and_o the_o necessity_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n upon_o the_o warrant_n of_o this_o clear_a command_n so_o that_o whosoever_o be_v a_o hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o do_v not_o in_o this_o order_n fly_v unto_o christ_n he_o be_v inexcusable_a even_o the_o wicked_a and_o worst_a of_o man_n and_o much_o less_o excusable_a be_v the_o afflict_a convert_n of_o who_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v who_o already_o have_v acknowledge_v his_o lose_a condition_n without_o christ_n and_o know_v that_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n of_o relief_n except_o by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n and_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o dare_v not_o depart_v from_o he_o if_o this_o man_n shall_v stand_v here_o and_o not_o rely_v on_o christ_n and_o rest_v his_o soul_n upon_o he_o confident_o what_o excuse_n can_v he_o make_v if_o he_o do_v object_n that_o his_o name_n be_v not_o write_v in_o this_o command_n 1_o joh._n 3._o 23._o it_o have_v no_o force_n to_o impede_fw-la his_o faith_n for_o neither_o be_v his_o name_n write_v in_o any_o of_o the_o ten_o command_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o yet_o he_o find_v himself_o tie_v to_o the_o obedience_n of_o every_o one_o of_o they_o and_o why_o be_v he_o not_o tie_v also_o to_o this_o sweet_a command_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o grace_n as_o well_o as_o to_o other_o command_n this_o command_v be_v give_v forth_o as_o the_o last_o declaration_n of_o god_n will_n for_o relief_n of_o they_o who_o acknowledge_v that_o they_o by_o the_o law_n be_v condemn_v wherefore_o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a any_o more_o pretend_v the_o difficulty_n of_o apply_v christ_n and_o his_o grace_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n see_v it_o be_v presuppose_v he_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o dare_v neither_o depart_n from_o he_o nor_o for_o the_o pretend_a scruple_n draw_v confident_o in_o unto_o he_o but_o let_v he_o check_v and_o chide_v himself_o for_o not_o haunt_v christ_n and_o converse_v with_o he_o in_o heaven_n in_o that_o humility_n and_o confidence_n which_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v allow_v unto_o he_o and_o command_v he_o to_o take_v up_o and_o hold_v fast_o chap._n xxii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n concern_v his_o conversion_n arise_v from_o the_o observation_n in_o himself_o of_o presumption_n and_o security_n in_o his_o prosperity_n and_o of_o his_o misbelief_n in_o adversity_n there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o albeit_o they_o be_v neither_o idle_a nor_o
himself_o some_o true_a convert_n judge_v their_o state_n by_o some_o false_a rule_n do_v not_o only_o torment_v themselves_o but_o also_o so_o far_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v by_o pronounce_v false_a sentence_n of_o their_o own_o state_n go_v about_o to_o extinguish_v the_o spunk_n of_o piety_n which_o be_v in_o they_o the_o false_a rule_n whereby_o they_o do_v judge_v themselves_o be_v strengthen_v by_o a_o groundless_a persuasion_n that_o it_o be_v a_o true_a and_o sure_a rule_n and_o ordinary_o when_o they_o think_v or_o speak_v of_o it_o they_o prefix_v no_o reason_n for_o it_o but_o some_o confident_a asseveration_n such_o as_o without_o doubt_n it_o be_v most_o certain_a and_o i_o be_o persuade_v of_o it_o and_o such_o like_a if_o i_o be_v regenerate_v and_o true_o convert_v without_o doubt_n i_o shall_v be_v in_o a_o better_a disposition_n than_o i_o be_o i_o shall_v love_v the_o lord_n more_o fervent_o i_o shall_v understand_v the_o mystery_n of_o god_n word_n more_o clear_o i_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o little_o affect_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o god_n benefit_n bestow_v on_o i_o i_o shall_v not_o go_v so_o light_o under_o the_o conviction_n of_o so_o many_o sin_n against_o god_n as_o i_o feel_v in_o i_o i_o shall_v be_v more_o diligent_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o my_o call_n i_o shall_v walk_v more_o humble_o and_o circumspect_o in_o all_o my_o conversation_n and_o such_o like_a many_o expression_n the_o same_o course_n do_v the_o afflict_a follow_n in_o his_o examination_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o of_o every_o christian_a virtue_n in_o himself_o without_o doubt_n say_v he_o if_o this_o be_v true_o as_o a_o christian_a virtue_n in_o i_o there_o will_v not_o be_v such_o a_o disposition_n as_o i_o find_v in_o i_o my_o condition_n shall_v be_v such_o and_o such_o as_o become_v a_o new_a creature_n which_o because_o i_o do_v not_o find_v in_o i_o i_o have_v just_a reason_n to_o call_v in_o question_n my_o conversion_n and_o here_o be_v a_o port_n open_v for_o satan_n to_o enter_v at_o and_o to_o throw_v all_o his_o fiery_a dart_n at_o the_o miserable_a soul_n of_o the_o weak_a convert_n whence_o many_o complaint_n do_v break_v forth_o and_o thanksgiving_n for_o mercy_n receive_v and_o for_o the_o time_n enjoy_v be_v break_v off_o and_o cease_v and_o partly_o through_o diffidence_n partly_o through_o murmur_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v provoke_v to_o wrath_n 2._o we_o grant_v that_o this_o be_v a_o dangerous_a evil_a not_o only_o to_o the_o person_n afflict_v but_o also_o to_o such_o as_o be_v familiar_o acquaint_v with_o his_o condition_n because_o this_o disease_n ready_o do_v infect_v other_o as_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o the_o camp_n of_o israel_n where_o the_o murmur_a of_o some_o set_v the_o body_n of_o the_o army_n on_o a_o mutiny_n against_o god_n for_o one_o that_o be_v weak_a in_o the_o faith_n when_o he_o hear_v such_o complaint_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o one_o who_o he_o judge_v to_o be_v holy_a than_o himself_o incontinent_a he_o fall_v on_o complain_v of_o his_o own_o state_n say_v that_o he_o have_v more_o weighty_a reason_n to_o suspect_v the_o soundness_n of_o his_o conversion_n than_o the_o person_n have_v who_o he_o have_v hear_v suspect_v his_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a before_o he_o shall_v vent_v his_o suspicion_n of_o his_o state_n examine_v the_o rule_n whereby_o he_o have_v pass_v sentence_n on_o himself_o whether_o he_o can_v make_v it_o good_a from_o the_o scripture_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o say_v without_o doubt_n and_o i_o be_o persuade_v it_o be_v true_a except_o it_o can_v be_v confirm_v by_o the_o infallible_a warrant_n of_o god_n word_n and_o let_v his_o friend_n who_o shall_v hear_v his_o complaint_n express_o require_v a_o reason_n of_o his_o confidence_n that_o such_o a_o rule_n be_v clear_a from_o scripture_n and_o that_o the_o application_n thereof_o be_v make_v righteous_o which_o if_o he_o can_v prove_v otherways_o then_o satan_n do_v enforce_v his_o tentation_n that_o be_v either_o without_o scripture_n or_o by_o abuse_v scripture_n contrary_n to_o the_o intent_n thereof_o let_v he_o acknowledge_v his_o readiness_n to_o misbelieve_v and_o disobey_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o hearken_v to_o satan_n tentation_n to_o the_o weaken_n of_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o hinder_v of_o his_o cheerful_a obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n command_n and_o because_o such_o question-making_a of_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n be_v ofttimes_o very_o inconsiderat_o utter_v even_o before_o they_o who_o do_v not_o allow_v the_o complainer_n misconstruction_n of_o his_o state_n or_o if_o they_o shall_v allow_v it_o and_o say_v to_o the_o complainer_n that_o they_o believe_v that_o suspicion_n of_o his_o state_n be_v very_o just_a it_o shall_v grieve_v the_o complainer_n more_o than_o the_o doubt_n itself_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_v neither_o hearken_v to_o the_o suspicion_n nor_o vent_v it_o when_o it_o be_v strong_o suggest_v but_o let_v he_o humble_v himself_o before_o christ_n because_o of_o these_o defect_n and_o want_n of_o such_o evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n as_o he_o will_v have_v and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o these_o want_n let_v he_o cleave_v close_o to_o christ_n for_o cover_v his_o nakedness_n and_o earnest_o endeavour_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v make_v more_o and_o more_o conform_a to_o the_o examplar_n of_o holiness_n hold_v forth_o in_o the_o scripture_n chap._n xxiv_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o convert_n doubt_v of_o his_o own_o conversion_n because_o he_o have_v find_v the_o deceitfulness_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o dare_v not_o trust_v it_o any_o more_o some_o sincere_a convert_n who_o upright_o do_v serve_v christ_n and_o adhere_v unto_o he_o by_o faith_n when_o they_o consider_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o how_o many_o be_v deceive_v by_o trust_v to_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n concern_v their_o regeneration_n and_o justification_n do_v begin_v to_o call_v in_o question_n all_o the_o work_n of_o their_o own_o conversion_n and_o do_v fear_n lest_o they_o be_v find_v in_o the_o number_n of_o the_o fine_a sort_n of_o hypocrite_n who_o deceive_v both_o themselves_o and_o other_o have_v nothing_o in_o they_o but_o a_o civil_a life_n and_o form_n of_o religion_n without_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n and_o do_v sleep_n to_o death_n in_o security_n of_o which_o sort_n our_o lord_n jesus_n forewarn_v that_o not_o only_o private_a person_n but_o also_o many_o preacher_n shall_v be_v find_v mat._n 7._o 22._o of_o who_o we_o may_v suppone_v that_o they_o be_v not_o conscious_a of_o open_a and_o gross_a wickedness_n but_o be_v of_o a_o blameless_a carriage_n before_o the_o world_n profess_v the_o christian_a faith_n and_o teach_v other_o to_o believe_v in_o christ_n and_o doubt_v nothing_o but_o christ_n shall_v judge_v of_o they_o as_o real_a saint_n to_o who_o for_o all_o that_o christ_n shall_v one_o day_n say_v depart_v from_o i_o you_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n i_o never_o know_v you_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o such_o man_n have_v be_v deceive_v by_o their_o own_o heart_n which_o when_o the_o afflict_a do_v consider_v he_o stand_v astonish_v and_o tremble_v for_o fear_n say_v with_o himself_o what_o shall_v i_o think_v of_o my_o former_a opinion_n of_o my_o blessed_a state_n i_o fear_v my_o heart_n have_v deceive_v i_o as_o other_o of_o great_a gift_n and_o better_a life_n have_v be_v deceive_v by_o their_o own_o heart_n 2._o this_o be_v a_o doubt_n which_o have_v need_n to_o be_v solve_v but_o neither_o this_o nor_o any_o other_o doubt_n can_v be_v solid_o and_o effectual_o solve_v by_o any_o mean_a except_o the_o holy_a spirit_n give_v a_o blessing_n to_o the_o mean_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o be_v religious_o educat_fw-la and_o free_a from_o gross_a vice_n do_v not_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n be_v not_o touch_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o original_a sin_n and_o corrupt_v lust_n but_o without_o take_v any_o burden_n on_o their_o conscience_n for_o these_o do_v pass_v by_o their_o time_n well_o please_v with_o their_o own_o estate_n some_o also_o there_o be_v who_o have_v fall_v in_o gross_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n do_v find_v for_o some_o time_n remorse_n of_o conscience_n for_o these_o gross_a sin_n but_o for_o their_o other_o sin_n beside_o those_o and_o for_o their_o inborn_a corruption_n be_v not_o careful_a think_v it_o sufficient_a if_o thereafter_o they_o do_v not_o fall_v in_o such_o gross_a fault_n the_o first_o sort_n of_o man_n do_v deceive_v themselves_o think_v they_o have_v little_a to_o repent_v of●_n in_o regard_n they_o be_v
free_a of_o gross_a out-breaking_n this_o last_o sort_n deceive_v themselves_o also_o because_o they_o esteem_v their_o natural_a sorrow_n for_o such_o sin_n as_o be_v gross_a and_o scandalous_a to_o be_v true_a repentance_n albeit_o they_o be_v not_o humble_v for_o the_o fountain_n of_o these_o out-breaking_n to_o wit_n their_o inborn_a corruption_n of_o nature_n and_o filthy_a concupiscence_n and_o the_o daily_a out-breaking_n thereof_o to_o the_o pollute_v of_o their_o spirit_n whereof_o they_o do_v take_v little_a or_o no_o notice_n many_o also_o there_o be_v who_o deceive_v themselves_o esteem_v the_o outward_a exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o some_o work_n in_o themselves_o commendable_a to_o be_v sufficient_a fruit_n and_o evidence_n of_o their_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o their_o regeneration_n albeit_o they_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o flee_v to_o christ_n sincere_o neither_o ever_o put_v a_o right_a estimation_n upon_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ._n such_o man_n when_o they_o shall_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o their_o own_o work_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sinfulness_n fly_v unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n offer_v in_o christ_n that_o in_o he_o they_o may_v have_v remission_n of_o sin_n and_o from_o he_o by_o faith_n draw_v strength_n and_o ability_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a work_n they_o run_v a_o contrary_a course_n for_o in_o the_o confidence_n of_o their_o own_o strength_n they_o go_v about_o sundry_a duty_n towards_o man_n and_o exercise_n of_o religion_n towards_o god_n trust_v in_o those_o work_n as_o if_o by_o work_v they_o be_v to_o be_v justify_v therefore_o just_o shall_v christ_n say_v unto_o they_o depart_v from_o i_o you_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n i_o never_o know_v you_o such_o be_v many_o of_o the_o israelit_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n these_o thing_n when_o one_o weak_a in_o faith_n do_v consider_v no_o wonder_n he_o be_v trouble_v and_o be_v afraid_a lest_o he_o deceive_v himself_o and_o perish_v as_o other_o have_v do_v 3._o this_o be_v a_o dangerous_a disease_n and_o so_o long_o as_o it_o be_v not_o cure_v it_o hinder_v much_o the_o tender_a beginning_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n that_o it_o can_v come_v up_o to_o manly_a strength_n first_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a wise_o examine_v the_o course_n of_o his_o bygone_a life_n lest_o he_o either_o absolve_v or_o condemn_v himself_o rash_o and_o let_v he_o beware_v lest_o he_o esteem_v the_o worse_a of_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o new_a creature_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n because_o these_o that_o look_v to_o be_v justify_v by_o their_o work_n can_v produce_v the_o like_a work_n second_o let_v the_o afflict_a call_n to_o mind_n whether_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o reformation_n of_o his_o life_n the_o law_n as_o a_o pedagogue_n do_v lead_v he_o unto_o christ_n and_o whether_o since_o that_o time_n the_o law_n do_v daily_o put_v he_o on_o and_o force_v he_o to_o ●lye_v to_o christ_n and_o to_o embrace_v christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o have_v make_v he_o to_o study_v obedience_n to_o the_o law_n out_o of_o love_n to_o god_n so_o much_o the_o more_o careful_o as_o he_o perceive_v himself_o oblige_v thankful_o to_o acknowledge_v grace_n grant_v in_o christ_n to_o he_o for_o if_o any_o measure_n of_o the_o daily_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n if_o any_o measure_n of_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o any_o measure_n of_o endeavour_n of_o new_a obedience_n be_v find_v after_o examination_n in_o the_o person_n afflict_v out_o of_o doubt_v the_o ground_n be_v lay_v solid_o of_o his_o salvation_n out_o of_o doubt_n he_o have_v a_o evidence_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o himself_o 4._o if_o in_o this_o examination_n the_o afflict_a be_v not_o clear_a but_o the_o doubt_n do_v yet_o stick_v because_o of_o the_o suspicion_n he_o have_v of_o the_o feel_a deceitfulness_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n we_o offer_v unto_o he_o this_o counsel_n that_o he_o quick_o humble_a himself_o before_o god_n and_o do_v ingenuous_o acknowledge_v the_o native_a perverseness_n and_o deceitfulness_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o for_o that_o very_a reason_n let_v he_o embrace_v christ_n the_o redeemer_n in_o the_o arm_n of_o faith_n offer_v himself_o to_o every_o condemn_a sinner_n and_o let_v he_o thank_v god_n who_o have_v decipher_v unto_o he_o this_o deceitfulness_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o offer_v christ_n unto_o he_o for_o the_o true_a remedy_n of_o this_o and_o every_o other_o sinful_a malady_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n let_v he_o put_v a_o difference_n between_o himself_o and_o a_o hypocrite_n in_o who_o the_o deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v neither_o acknowledge_v nor_o see_v but_o foster_v and_o defend_v for_o a_o close_a hypocrite_n after_o hear_v of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n will_v stand_v to_o the_o defend_n of_o his_o own_o sincerity_n and_o will_v take_v it_o hardly_o if_o any_o man_n labour_n to_o convince_v he_o of_o any_o measure_n of_o hypocrisy_n but_o a_o true_a convert_n or_o regenerate_a person_n will_v not_o deny_v but_o much_o hypocrisy_n may_v be_v find_v in_o he_o and_o albeit_o he_o be_v sorrowful_a that_o this_o deceitfulness_n of_o heart_n have_v have_v lodging_n in_o he_o and_o lurk_v too_o long_o yet_o be_v he_o willing_a and_o glad_a to_o have_v this_o evil_n more_o and_o more_o discover_v unto_o he_o and_o hearty_o do_v he_o deliver_v up_o this_o traitor_n to_o christ_n to_o be_v mortify_v and_o abolish_v by_o his_o spirit_n 5._o but_o if_o the_o afflict_v can_v be_v quiet_a and_o satisfy_v still_o fear_v and_o suspect_v he_o be_v find_v a_o man_n unrenewed_a and_o that_o for_o the_o run_a issue_n of_o this_o filthy_a boil_v open_v up_o to_o he_o by_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n let_v he_o beware_v that_o he_o pass_v not_o permptor_n sentence_n against_o himself_o that_o he_o do_v not_o conclude_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o man_n altogether_o in_o the_o bond_n of_o iniquity_n but_o let_v he_o suspend_v for_o a_o time_n the_o disputation_n and_o do_v that_o which_o be_v allow_v unto_o every_o self-condemned_n man_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o conversion_n that_o be_v quick_o let_v he_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n let_v he_o lay_v hold_n on_o that_o righteousness_n purchase_v by_o he_o and_o the_o more_o he_o fear_v to_o find_v god_n a_o severe_a judge_n let_v he_o the_o more_o firm_o lie_v hold_v on_o jesus_n christ_n the_o mediator_n who_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a by_o faith_n this_o be_v the_o only_a solid_a way_n to_o persevere_v in_o faith_n to_o overcome_v satan_n to_o solve_v doubt_n to_o resist_v temptation_n and_o to_o cure_v the_o wound_n make_v by_o satan_n fiery_a dart_n for_o unto_o that_o man_n who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o ill_a deserve_n and_o inability_n to_o help_v himself_o do_v fly_v unto_o christ_n it_o shall_v never_o be_v say_v by_o christ_n depart_v from_o i_o i_o never_o know_v thou_o 6._o now_o when_o the_o person_n afflict_v have_v of_o new_a lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n and_o guard_v the_o fortress_n of_o faith_n and_o repulse_v the_o tempter_n who_o by_o all_o mean_n and_o special_o by_o quarrel_v and_o question_v the_o bypass_a work_n of_o grace_n in_o he_o have_v labour_v to_o weaken_v and_o overturn_v his_o faith_n for_o bygones_a and_o for_o the_o present_a also_o lest_o it_o shall_v convalesce_v and_o grow_v strong_a for_o time_n to_o come_v now_o i_o say_v let_v the_o afflict_a after_o victory_n return_v to_o the_o dispute_n and_o to_o the_o examination_n of_o his_o state_n in_o grace_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o regeneration_n and_o he_o shall_v see_v all_o the_o begin_v save_v grace_n which_o be_v darken_v by_o temptation_n clear_o appear_v and_o shall_v perceive_v the_o several_a step_n and_o degree_n of_o god_n grace_n towards_o he_o in_o former_a time_n more_o evident_o than_o he_o can_v discern_v they_o in_o the_o hour_n of_o darkness_n and_o temptation_n and_o so_o he_o shall_v return_v from_o this_o battle_n strongerin_o faith_n then_o he_o be_v before_o and_o more_o persuade_v of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o he_o than_o he_o be_v before_o the_o temptation_n chap._n xxv_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_v conversion_n arise_v from_o his_o breach_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o he_o conceive_v there_o be_v some_o sincere_a convert_n who_o albeit_o they_o do_v not_o doubt_v but_o penitent_n fly_v to_o christ_n be_v receive_v in_o favour_n with_o god_n be_v justify_v from_o their_o sin_n and_o do_v obtain_v right_a unto_o all_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o saint_n yet_o they_o doubt_v
whether_o every_o sincere_a convert_n shall_v remain_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n if_o possible_o they_o have_v so_o far_o abuse_v grace_n as_o to_o defile_v themselves_o again_o with_o the_o pollution_n which_o they_o seem_v to_o repent_v of_o before_o and_o this_o erroneous_a opinion_n of_o the_o instability_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n they_o do_v apply_v to_o themselves_o for_o when_o they_o have_v find_v by_o experience_n the_o power_n of_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v not_o only_a rage_a but_o in_o appearance_n reign_v in_o they_o as_o the_o conscience_n of_o their_o relapse_v in_o their_o old_a sin_n bear_v witness_v and_o when_o they_o know_v their_o nature_n so_o corrupt_a and_o ready_a to_o sin_v yet_o more_o they_o doubt_v if_o this_o condition_n can_v stand_v with_o be_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o whatsoever_o they_o have_v find_v of_o their_o be_v in_o this_o covenant_n they_o now_o fear_v that_o they_o be_v fall_v from_o grace_n because_o they_o have_v as_o they_o conceive_v break_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n on_o their_o part_n therefore_o they_o apprehend_v also_o that_o god_n in_o justice_n be_v provoke_v ofttimes_o by_o they_o have_v now_o at_o last_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n on_o his_o part_n for_o say_v they_o it_o be_v no_o reason_n that_o god_n shall_v be_v tie_v unto_o they_o in_o covenant_n who_o so_o many_o way_n have_v violate_v that_o covenant_n but_o as_o adam_n by_o sin_v exclude_v himself_o from_o all_o benefit_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n so_o be_v it_o reason_n that_o every_o one_o who_o have_v violate_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o i_o have_v do_v shall_v be_v exclude_v from_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o here_o the_o afflict_a do_v stand_v as_o a_o miserable_a man_n uncertain_a what_o to_o do_v in_o which_o condition_n horrible_a temptation_n and_o heavy_a suspicion_n of_o their_o state_n do_v arise_v namely_o that_o they_o be_v in_o the_o condition_n and_o case_n wherein_o esau_n be_v who_o when_o he_o have_v sell_v his_o birthright_n for_o a_o mess_n of_o pottage_n find_v no_o place_n for_o repentance_n albeit_o he_o seek_v the_o blessing_n with_o tear_n now_o what_o torment_n may_v be_v in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o afflict_a in_o this_o case_n it_o be_v easy_a for_o they_o who_o at_o any_o time_n have_v feel_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n to_o conjecture_v and_o this_o doubt_n do_v vex_v the_o man_n most_o who_o be_v conscious_a of_o his_o often_o abuse_v of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n for_o what_o shall_v i_o do_v say_v he_o shall_v i_o defile_v myself_o and_o go_v and_o wash_v and_o again_o defile_v myself_o and_o go_v and_o wash_v and_o by_o this_o mean_n augment_v my_o own_o guiltiness_n from_o day_n to_o day_n what_o be_v if_o this_o be_v not_o to_o abuse_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n 2._o that_o this_o evil_n may_v be_v remove_v we_o must_v confess_v that_o there_o be_v many_o who_o after_o some_o remorse_n for_o some_o sin_n raise_v by_o a_o natural_a and_o unrenewed_a conscience_n do_v weep_v now_o and_o then_o as_o saul_n do_v for_o his_o injust_a persecution_n of_o david_n and_o do_v think_v that_o by_o their_o tear_n they_o have_v washen_v away_o their_o sin_n and_o attain_v to_o some_o sort_n of_o quietness_n in_o their_o conscience_n for_o a_o time_n who_o yet_o do_v not_o cease_v from_o their_o wickedness_n but_o remain_v in_o their_o natural_a state_n stranger_n from_o god_n and_o christ._n we_o must_v also_o acknowledge_v that_o some_o of_o the_o regenerate_a in_o their_o carnal_a security_n fall_v back_o in_o their_o old_a sin_n ordinary_o be_v sharp_o chastise_v by_o god_n and_o indeed_o no_o wonder_n be_v that_o such_o as_o have_v once_o attain_v to_o peace_n with_o god_n do_v meet_v with_o break_a bone_n after_o they_o have_v abuse_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o give_v way_n to_o their_o sinful_a lust_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o david_n ps._n 51._o 3._o as_o for_o those_o who_o fall_v in_o open_a gross_a scandalous_a sin_n which_o defile_v the_o whole_a man_n soul_n and_o body_n both_o it_o be_v safe_a for_o they_o whether_o they_o be_v before_o that_o time_n convert_v or_o not_o to_o let_v alone_o long_a disputation_n whether_o they_o be_v regenerate_v or_o not_o before_o their_o fearful_a fall_n and_o to_o stir_v up_o themselves_o to_o a_o deep_a search_n of_o the_o wickedness_n of_o their_o nature_n that_o they_o may_v be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o inborn_a sin_n and_o gross_a actual_a out-breaking_n fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o pardon_n and_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o they_o have_v do_v 4._o as_o for_o these_o who_o have_v not_o fall_v in_o grievous_a open_a transgression_n but_o in_o their_o wrestle_n against_o sin_n not_o obtain_v the_o victory_n they_o will_v or_o hope_v to_o have_v do_v find_v themselves_o pollute_v in_o their_o spirit_n and_o put_v to_o the_o worse_a in_o their_o conflict_n against_o their_o sinful_a lust_n and_o passion_n and_o that_o very_o frequent_o and_o thereupon_o they_o apprehend_v that_o either_o they_o be_v never_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n or_o if_o they_o be_v in_o it_o that_o they_o have_v abuse_v and_o break_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o these_o we_o answer_v that_o every_o transgression_n of_o the_o command_n albeit_o it_o be_v a_o violation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n yet_o be_v not_o a_o dissolution_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o fail_v in_o a_o duty_n which_o the_o covenant_v party_n shall_v have_v do_v another_o thing_n to_o break_v or_o dissolve_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o it_o be_v provide_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o a_o special_a article_n that_o god_n will_v forgive_v the_o sin_n of_o his_o confederate_a people_n when_o they_o confess_v their_o fault_n and_o sue_v for_o pardon_n according_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o mercy_n to_o the_o covenant_v jer._n 31_o 32_o and_o lest_o any_o humble_a sinner_n shall_v be_v discourage_v and_o not_o receive_v this_o solution_n of_o his_o doubt_n let_v he_o consider_v the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 6._o 1._o express_o set_v down_o for_o their_o comfort_n who_o have_v resolve_v to_o live_v holy_o just_o and_o temperate_o be_v overtake_v in_o a_o offence_n and_o be_v not_o purpose_v to_o abuse_v mercy_n or_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n into_o lasciviousness_n and_o 1_o job._n 2._o 1._o these_o thing_n i_o write_v unto_o you_o to_o wit_n believer_n in_o christ_n careful_a to_o live_v holy_o that_o you_o sin_v not_o but_o if_o any_o man_n sin_n we_o have_v a_o advocate_n with_o the_o father_n jesus_n christ_n the_o just_a one_o and_o this_o article_n of_o the_o covenant_n for_o grant_v daily_a remission_n according_a to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o saint_n make_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n perpetual_a and_o to_o be_v daily_o make_v use_n of_o as_o we_o be_v direct_v in_o the_o lord_n prayer_n and_o in_o this_o do_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n differ_v from_o the_o covenant_n of_o work_n which_o by_o any_o one_o sin_n be_v so_o violat_a as_o the_o curse_n do_v follow_v till_o the_o sinner_n run_v in_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o by_o this_o doctrine_n a_o door_n be_v not_o open_v unto_o sin_v but_o the_o door_n only_o be_v close_v to_o keep_v in_o the_o true_a convert_n from_o desperation_n and_o run_v away_o from_o christ_n and_o to_o help_v he_o out_o of_o the_o mire_n of_o discouragement_n wherein_o he_o be_v fall_v lest_o he_o sink_v in_o it_o and_o despair_n neither_o be_v the_o study_n of_o holiness_n hinder_v by_o this_o way_n or_o the_o diligence_n of_o the_o convert_v slaken_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o new_a obedience_n and_o please_v of_o god_n but_o only_o servile_a fear_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o serve_v god_n be_v take_v away_o and_o the_o obligation_n of_o love_n to_o god_n who_o be_v find_v to_o be_v so_o merciful_a be_v more_o strict_o tie_v upon_o we_o which_o love_n as_o it_o be_v augment_v daily_o by_o new_a confirmation_n of_o faith_n and_o fresh_a experience_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o we_o do_v cast_v out_o servile_a fear_n as_o the_o apostle_n teach_v 1_o joh._n 4._o 18._o as_o for_o the_o afflict_a convert_n his_o fear_n that_o he_o be_v like_o saul_n who_o though_o he_o feel_v remorse_n and_o shame_n when_o all_o the_o beholder_n in_o his_o army_n see_v he_o so_o confound_v by_o david_n loyal_a carriage_n towards_o he_o yet_o do_v he_o not_o repent_v this_o sin_n at_o all_o nor_o amend_v his_o life_n at_o all_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o suspect_v himself_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o he_o or_o to_o esau_n who_o be_v solicitous_a only_o for_o a_o earthly_a blessing_n
of_o grace_n because_o he_o find_v himself_o frequent_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n experience_n teach_v that_o sundry_a true_a convert_n because_o they_o feel_v themselves_o ofttimes_o in_o a_o ill_a condition_n do_v call_v in_o question_n their_o be_v in_o the_o bless_a state_n of_o grace_n not_o consider_v that_o the_o condition_n of_o a_o man_n whether_o in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n unrenewed_a or_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n may_v be_v comparative_o in_o better_a or_o worse_a condition_n and_o yet_o his_o state_n remain_v the_o same_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o misbelieve_a hebrew_n be_v in_o a_o evil_a condition_n at_o the_o one_o side_n of_o the_o red_a sea_n when_o they_o repent_v their_o come_n out_o of_o egypt_n but_o in_o a_o better_a condition_n when_o they_o do_v sing_v praise_n unto_o god_n on_o the_o other_o side_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o yet_o for_o their_o state_n some_o be_v yea_o most_o part_n still_o in_o nature_n unrenewed_a moses_n and_o aaron_n be_v in_o a_o evil_a condition_n when_o their_o passion_n offend_v god_n at_o the_o smite_v of_o the_o rock_n but_o when_o they_o do_v intercede_v with_o god_n for_o the_o people_n when_o wrath_n be_v kindle_v against_o the_o host_n they_o be_v in_o a_o better_a condition_n and_o both_o in_o the_o one_o time_n and_o in_o the_o other_o they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n true_a saint_n in_o god_n estimation_n this_o mistake_n of_o the_o weak_a in_o faith_n not_o put_v difference_n between_o their_o present_a disposition_n and_o their_o state_n make_v they_o judge_v of_o themselves_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n when_o their_o condition_n be_v good_a and_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n unrenewed_a when_o they_o feel_v themselves_o in_o a_o evil_a condition_n when_o they_o observe_v their_o heart_n enlarge_v to_o run_v the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n than_o they_o esteem_v themselves_o true_o regenerate_v and_o when_o they_o feel_v themselves_o sluggish_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n dull_a in_o hear_v the_o word_n flow_v to_o believe_v what_o the_o scripture_n speak_v when_o they_o esteem_v their_o ordinary_a service_n to_o be_v after_o a_o form_n of_o godliness_n without_o affection_n and_o power_n and_o what_o service_n they_o do_v to_o proceed_v from_o fear_n of_o wrath_n rather_o than_o from_o the_o new_a and_o right_a principle_n of_o a_o regenerate_a man_n than_o they_o question_v all_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o themselves_o what_o shall_v i_o think_v say_v the_o afflict_a concern_v my_o state_n in_o grace_n when_o i_o find_v my_o condition_n so_o frequent_o not_o only_a short_a of_o what_o it_o shall_v be_v but_o also_o pollute_v with_o divers_a sort_n of_o sin_n 2._o for_o answer_v we_o must_v grant_v that_o the_o external_a duty_n of_o religion_n may_v be_v discharge_v from_o fleshly_a and_o corrupt_a principle_n for_o many_o do_v perform_v command_v external_a duty_n that_o they_o may_v eshew_v the_o reproach_n of_o impiety_n or_o that_o they_o may_v insinuat_fw-la themselves_z in_o the_o good_a estimation_n and_o favour_n of_o the_o godly_a or_o for_o some_o base_a earthly_a end_n for_o which_o gross_a hypocrite_n do_v whatsoever_o they_o do_v in_o religion_n like_o unto_o these_o be_v all_o self-deceiving_a hypocrite_n who_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n misken_v that_o righteousness_n which_o be_v of_o god_n by_o faith_n as_o if_o god_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o take_v their_o performance_n for_o a_o full_a satisfaction_n for_o their_o former_a sin_n and_o will_v look_v upon_o their_o work_n as_o meritorious_a of_o eternal_a life_n and_o therefore_o because_o man_n may_v deceive_v themselves_o 1._o the_o afflict_a shall_v do_v well_o to_o examine_v himself_o whether_o he_o have_v renounce_v all_o confidence_n in_o the_o flesh_n or_o his_o own_o work_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o and_o flee_v unto_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n with_o some_o measure_n of_o honest_a endeavour_v to_o worship_n and_o serve_v god_n in_o his_o spirit_n which_o if_o his_o conscience_n can_v witness_v unto_o he_o to_o be_v his_o way_n wherein_o he_o be_v walk_v then_o may_v he_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o be_v a_o true_a convert_n 2._o and_o albeit_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o imperfection_n of_o the_o regenerate_a man_n do_v many_o time_n obscure_v his_o state_n in_o grace_n yet_o can_v they_o not_o extinguish_v the_o sponk_n of_o regeneration_n begin_v in_o he_o or_o prove_v the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o he_o not_o to_o be_v at_o all_o 3._o we_o grant_v that_o the_o condition_n of_o a_o true_a convert_n at_o sometime_o may_v be_v so_o bad_a by_o reason_n of_o sinful_a distemper_n and_o fleshly_a carriage_n that_o many_o unrenewed_a man_n conversation_n shall_v be_v find_v far_o more_o commendable_a than_o the_o present_a condition_n and_o carriage_n of_o the_o renew_a man_n in_o his_o sinful_a condition_n in_o which_o case_n neither_o god_n nor_o his_o own_o conscience_n nor_o any_o that_o fear_v god_n can_v speak_v any_o thing_n but_o wrath_n to_o he_o till_o he_o repent_v and_o turn_v to_o god_n for_o mercy_n in_o christ_n yet_o the_o afflict_a penitent_a convert_n lament_v his_o bad_a condition_n be_v in_o better_a case_n than_o any_o unrenewed_a man_n can_v be_v into_o for_o the_o very_a grief_n and_o perplexity_n which_o he_o find_v because_o his_o condition_n be_v so_o oft_o ill_a and_o sinful_a prove_v his_o good_a affection_n towards_o god_n and_o his_o earnest_a desire_n to_o walk_v before_o god_n unto_o all_o well-pleasing_a in_o all_o thing_n and_o at_o all_o time_n 3._o but_o if_o the_o afflict_a shall_v insist_v and_o object_n that_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n ordinary_o be_v a_o main_a motive_n which_o set_v he_o on_o to_o do_v the_o duty_n and_o service_n which_o god_n require_v of_o he_o and_o not_o the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o feel_a in-lake_n whereof_o do_v make_v he_o go_v on_o halt_v and_o heavy_a in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n we_o answer_v that_o albeit_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n look_v upon_o alone_o do_v not_o prove_v regeneration_n yet_o it_o may_v well_o consist_v with_o regeneration_n because_o god_n do_v not_o for_o nought_o join_v with_o his_o precept_n fearful_a threaten_n of_o judgement_n against_o those_o who_o shall_v transgress_v his_o command_n that_o they_o may_v be_v as_o a_o spur_n in_o his_o child_n side_n to_o press_v they_o to_o their_o duty_n and_o as_o a_o bridle_n to_o curb_v and_o check_v their_o vicious_a inclination_n unto_o sin_n which_o lodge_v in_o all_o man_n by_o nature_n and_o this_o motive_n be_v evident_a in_o the_o experience_n of_o the_o prophet_n ps_n 119._o 120._o my_o flesh_n tremble_v for_o fear_n of_o thou_o and_o i_o be_o afraid_a of_o thy_o judgement_n 2._o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o afflict_a late_o convert_v unto_o god_n be_v not_o free_a as_o yet_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n but_o be_v keep_v in_o some_o measure_n under_o the_o bond_n of_o servile_a fear_n god_n so_o dispose_v for_o the_o humble_n exercise_v and_o train_n of_o his_o child_n late_o enter_v in_o his_o holy_a warfare_n in_o which_o condition_n his_o fear_n be_v commendable_a when_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o sinful_a short-coming_a in_o god_n service_n and_o of_o the_o prevail_a of_o his_o corruption_n against_o the_o begin_a work_n of_o renovation_n wherefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a go_v about_o the_o discharge_n of_o command_v duty_n in_o his_o christian_n calling_n and_o particular_a station_n wherein_o god_n have_v place_v he_o in_o what_o condition_n soever_o he_o shall_v find_v himself_o 2._o let_v he_o compare_v his_o present_a condition_n which_o he_o do_v count_v a_o ill_a condition_n with_o the_o bygone_a better_a condition_n whereof_o he_o have_v have_v possible_o experience_n frequent_o and_o when_o he_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o comfort_n he_o have_v have_v and_o the_o enlargement_n of_o heart_n to_o run_v in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n in_o hope_n of_o a_o change_n of_o his_o present_a condition_n to_o the_o better_a in_o hope_n of_o find_v renew_v blink_v of_o the_o lord_n countenance_n let_v he_o humble_o wait_v on_o god_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v till_o the_o daystar_n arise_v in_o his_o heart_n pray_v with_o the_o psalmist_n that_o god_n will_v quicken_v he_o according_a to_o his_o love_a kindness_n 3._o let_v he_o cleave_v the_o more_o close_o to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n withal_o give_v thanks_o unto_o god_n for_o the_o grace_n bestow_v on_o he_o for_o the_o give_v unto_o he_o eyesalve_n to_o see_v his_o blindness_n nakedness_n and_o misery_n and_o for_o make_v sin_n odious_a and_o grievous_a unto_o he_o in_o any_o measure_n
and_o for_o draw_v he_o to_o christ_n to_o be_v his_o refuge_n in_o his_o worst_a condition_n chap._n xxviii_o wherein_o be_v solve_v the_o doubt_n of_o the_o true_a convert_n concern_v his_o regeneration_n because_o he_o find_v the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n in_o the_o pollution_n of_o the_o imagination_n of_o his_o heart_n vigorous_a and_o powerful_a there_o be_v some_o true_a convert_n who_o albeit_o they_o be_v cleanse_v from_o the_o pollution_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o have_v their_o conversation_n blameless_a and_o without_o give_v scandal_n unto_o they_o they_o live_v among_o yet_o frequent_o be_v trouble_v with_o doubt_v of_o their_o state_n in_o grace_n because_o they_o feel_v in_o themselves_o such_o a_o power_n of_o inbred_a corruption_n of_o their_o heart_n as_o can_v hardly_o consist_v as_o they_o conceive_v with_o regeneration_n and_o save_v say_v because_o james_n chap._n 3._o ver_fw-la 11._o make_v the_o question_n thus_o do_v a_o fountain_n send_v forth_o at_o the_o same_o pl●ce_n sweet_a water_n and_o bitter_a etc._n etc._n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n this_o doubt_n the_o afflict_a wrestle_v with_o and_o say_v with_o himself_o what_o shall_v i_o think_v of_o myself_o who_o heart_n be_v so_o pollute_a that_o it_o cast_v forth_o continual_o dirt_n and_o mire_n how_o shall_v i_o reckon_v myself_o among_o the_o saint_n how_o shall_v i_o incrude_v myself_o among_o the_o justify_v who_o find_v so_o little_a evidence_n of_o the_o work_n of_o sanctification_n in_o i_o for_o faith_n shall_v purify_v the_o heart_n from_o this_o pollution_n whereof_o i_o do_v just_o complain_v 2._o for_o solve_v of_o this_o doubt_n many_o thing_n be_v already_o speak_v which_o serve_v for_o the_o cure_n of_o this_o case_n and_o comfort_v the_o afflict_a in_o this_o condition_n but_o because_o one_o and_o the_o same_o doubt_n do_v diverse_o present_v itself_o now_o in_o one_o shape_n then_o in_o another_o and_o do_v vex_v the_o afflict_a in_o sundry_a way_n we_o shall_v answer_v this_o doubt_n propose_v as_o it_o be_v set_v down_o first_o therefore_o let_v the_o afflict_a examine_v himself_o whether_o he_o may_v with_o some_o measure_n of_o honesty_n say_v with_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 66._o 18._o i_o do_v not_o regard_v iniquity-in_a my_o heart_n i_o do_v not_o so_o delight_v in_o sin_n but_o that_o sin_n be_v still_o my_o affliction_n and_o my_o daily_a grief_n second_o let_v he_o examine_v himself_o whether_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n do_v break_v forth_o in_o word_n and_o deed_n or_o not_o or_o if_o it_o do_v burst_v out_o in_o some_o passionate_a fit_n whether_o he_o do_v open_v the_o sluice_n and_o give_v it_o way_n or_o whether_o he_o set_v himself_o to_o oppose_v the_o out-breaking_a of_o sin_n and_o be_v humble_v for_o what_o do_v break_v forth_o three_o let_v he_o examine_v whether_o he_o fly_v to_o christ_n to_o wash_v he_o and_o help_v he_o against_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n or_o not_o if_o after_o examination_n he_o can_v in_o any_o measure_n of_o honesty_n join_v with_o the_o apostle_n in_o his_o lamentation_n and_o recourse_n unto_o christ_n for_o delivery_n rom._n 7._o 24_o 25._o he_o may_v be_v assure_v he_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n for_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o a_o man_n be_v sell_v unto_o sin_n by_o his_o native_a corruption_n captivate_v he_o and_o a_o man_n set_v of_o himself_o unto_o sin_n as_o a_o voluntary_a servant_n of_o sin_n for_o a_o renew_a man_n may_v be_v in_o sundry_a case_n a_o captive_a to_o sin_n and_o be_v a_o fighter_n against_o sin_n but_o a_o man_n sell_v himself_o to_o sin_n be_v a_o slave_n voluntary_o suffer_v sin_n to_o reign_v in_o his_o mortal_a body_n let_v the_o afflict_a therefore_o comfort_v himself_o because_o in_o he_o there_o be_v a_o perpetual_a conflict_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n between_o his_o native_a inclination_n to_o sin_n and_o the_o new_a creature_n or_o inclination_n to_o holiness_n neither_o let_v he_o by_o misunderstand_a scripture_n former_o cite_v vex_v himself_o for_o his_o faith_n be_v indeed_o upon_o the_o work_n and_o the_o way_n of_o purify_n his_o heart_n first_o because_o he_o do_v fly_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n which_o cleanse_v he_o from_o all_o sin_n in_o respect_n of_o remission_n grant_v second_o there_o be_v a_o constant_a endeavour_n to_o be_v more_o and_o more_o holy_a and_o to_o draw_v virtue_n by_o faith_n from_o christ_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n well-pleasing_a unto_o god_n three_o he_o be_v about_o to_o mortify_v his_o lust_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o purge_v out_o the_o leaven_n of_o all_o filthiness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n albeit_o he_o can_v purge_v it_o out_o all_o at_o once_o or_o whole_o in_o in_o this_o life_n and_o four_a because_o albeit_o his_o doubt_v of_o his_o estate_n in_o grace_n be_v not_o allowable_a yet_o it_o do_v bear_v witness_n that_o the_o remainder_n of_o pollution_n in_o he_o be_v his_o grief_n affliction_n and_o vexation_n so_o also_o that_o other_o scripture_n james_n 3._o 11._o which_o faith_n that_o out_o of_o the_o same_o fountain_n proceed_v not_o salt_n water_n and_o sweet_a be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v so_o as_o if_o no_o rot_a speech_n can_v possible_o proceed_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o a_o regenerate_a man_n at_o any_o time_n for_o james_n do_v witness_v that_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o in_o thought_n word_n and_o deed_n but_o the_o meaning_n be_v that_o he_o that_o bridle_v not_o his_o tongue_n his_o religion_n be_v vain_a and_o nothing_o but_o a_o presumptuous_a boast_n of_o that_o which_o be_v not_o real_a and_o in_o truth_n and_o that_o it_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o regeneration_n that_o out_o of_o a_o man_n mouth_n pretend_v to_o bless_v god_n curse_v of_o man_n who_o be_v make_v after_o the_o similitude_n of_o god_n shall_v flow_v forth_o as_o water_n flow_v forth_o from_o a_o run_a fountain_n without_o controlment_n chap._n xxix_o show_v how_o to_o quench_v the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o satan_n and_o resist_v his_o sinful_a suggestion_n whether_o of_o short_a endurance_n or_o of_o long_a continuance_n sometime_o on_o a_o sudden_a satan_n cast_v a_o fiery_a dart_n of_o tentation_n unto_o some_o sin_n as_o his_o messenger_n seek_v to_o prepare_v the_o lodging_n for_o he_o which_o tentation_n he_o do_v so_o furious_o press_v as_o if_o he_o will_v not_o be_v refuse_v or_o can_v not_o be_v resist_v and_o possible_o may_v so_o bearin_a his_o tentation_n as_o the_o convert_n may_v be_v afraid_a that_o satan_n shall_v prevail_v find_v himself_o as_o it_o be_v overpower_v and_o unable_a to_o bear_v out_o in_o such_o a_o case_n as_o the_o apostle_n have_v experience_n of_o 2_o cor._n 12_o 7_o 8_o 9_o who_o find_v himself_o as_o it_o be_v buffet_v and_o abuse_v by_o the_o messenger_n of_o satan_n and_o unable_a of_o himself_o to_o resist_v he_o the_o remedy_n whereof_o be_v that_o the_o afflict_a with_o the_o apostle_n be_v humble_v in_o himself_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o inborn_a sinfulness_n and_o inability_n to_o overcome_v tentation_n 2._o that_o he_o fly_v to_o christ_n the_o captain_n of_o militant_a soldier_n and_o do_v pray_v unto_o he_o instant_o to_o help_v to_o bear_v out_o in_o the_o conflict_n and_o to_o be_v rid_v of_o the_o tempter_n 3._o let_v he_o hold_v fast_o the_o faith_n of_o promise_a grace_n and_o wrestle_v on_o so_o long_o as_o it_o shall_v please_v god_n to_o exercise_v he_o so_o with_o such_o a_o tentation_n job_n also_o be_v exercise_v which_o so_o far_o prevail_v as_o to_o make_v carnal_a and_o corrupt_a nature_n speak_v for_o it_o the_o tentation_n be_v very_o fearful_a and_o no_o less_o than_o self-murder_n job_n 7._o 13_o 14_o 15._o when_o i_o say_v my_o couch_n shall_v ease_v my_o complaint_n than_o thou_o scarre_v i_o with_o dream_n and_o terrify_v i_o with_o night-vision_n so_o that_o my_o soul_n choose_v strangle_v and_o death_n rather_o than_o life_n the_o remedy_n whereof_o be_v with_o job_n to_o fly_v to_o the_o redeemer_n and_o fix_v faith_n upon_o he_o and_o to_o present_v the_o tentation_n unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o humble_a lamentation_n strive_v against_o the_o suggestion_n and_o never_o to_o give_v over_o rely_v on_o god_n as_o he_o do_v 2._o sometime_o satan_n when_o he_o can_v find_v instrument_n to_o charge_v the_o convert_n with_o hypocrisy_n and_o a_o course_n of_o wickedness_n as_o he_o find_v in_o job_n trial_n by_o his_o uncharitable_a friend_n he_o use_v immediate_o to_o fall_v a_o rail_n against_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o convert_n and_o charge_v he_o false_o with_o deep_a guiltiness_n as_o calumniator_n use_v to_o do_v in_o their_o furious_a flyte_n and_o slander_v
of_o such_o as_o they_o hate_v hope_v how_o false_a and_o groundless_a soever_o the_o calumny_n be_v that_o yet_o something_o shall_v prove_v likely_a and_o probable_a and_o so_o fasten_v something_o upon_o the_o innocent_a in_o which_o case_n let_v the_o afflict_a lift_n up_o his_o mind_n to_o the_o lord_n and_o pray_v he_o to_o rebuke_n satan_n 2._o let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o natural_a corruption_n and_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n let_v he_o take_v the_o shield_n of_o faith_n for_o quench_v that_o dart_n 3._o let_v he_o as_o he_o be_v enable_v contemn_v these_o devilish_a slander_n of_o satan_n and_o set_v his_o mind_n on_o some_o better_a employment_n then_o to_o dispute_v with_o so_o impudent_a and_o restless_a a_o adversary_n for_o we_o have_v other_o business_n to_o go_v about_o then_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o dog_n bark_v at_o we_o but_o if_o it_o please_v god_n to_o continue_v that_o exercise_n from_o day_n to_o day_n let_v the_o afflict_a in_o patience_n submit_v himself_o to_o god_n and_o direct_v his_o speech_n and_o thought_n unto_o god_n only_o not_o answer_v direct_o such_o a_o shimei_n at_o all_o it_o be_v not_o safe_a to_o direct_v our_o speech_n to_o satan_n at_o all_o but_o let_v we_o say_v to_o god_n the_o lord_n rebuke_n satan_n 3._o sometime_o satan_n fall_v on_o with_o suggestion_n blasphemous_a against_o god_n and_o all_o the_o ground_n of_o religion_n and_o father_n all_o these_o blasphemy_n on_o the_o afflict_a as_o his_o proper_a sin_n in_o which_o case_n let_v the_o afflict_a be_v humble_v before_o god_n because_o of_o original_a sin_n whereof_o satan_n make_v use_v as_o of_o something_o of_o his_o own_o in_o we_o 2._o let_v he_o renew_v the_o grip_n of_o faith_n on_o christ_n the_o mediator_n in_o who_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o godhead_n dwell_v reconcile_a the_o elect_a world_n to_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o sin_n unto_o they_o 3._o let_v not_o the_o afflict_a look_n upon_o these_o blasphemy_n otherways_o then_o as_o satan_n malice_n against_o god_n for_o so_o they_o be_v indeed_o and_o not_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o poor_a soul_n vex_v with_o such_o suggestion_n 4._o let_v the_o afflict_a beware_v of_o discouragment_n misbelief_n or_o weaken_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o god_n of_o impatiency_n and_o fret_v under_o this_o sad_a exercise_n for_o there_o be_v more_o cause_n of_o fear_n from_o satan_n second_n subtle_a tentation_n then_o from_o his_o gross_a suggestion_n whereby_o at_o the_o back_n of_o the_o former_a gross_a blasphemy_n he_o go_v about_o to_o draw_v the_o afflict_a to_o the_o suspicion_n of_o the_o former_a work_n of_o grace_n in_o he_o and_o of_o god_n love_n unto_o he_o his_o wile_n in_o this_o case_n be_v much_o more_o dangerous_a than_o his_o violence_n in_o his_o furious_a lion-like_a assault_n for_o he_o may_v more_o easy_o get_v the_o consent_n of_o the_o afflict_a to_o some_o sit_v of_o misbelief_n and_o impatience_n or_o some_o other_o sin_n then_o to_o admit_v or_o consent_v unto_o any_o of_o these_o gross_a blasphemy_n suggest_v 4._o sometime_o when_o the_o young_a and_o tender_a convert_n be_v read_v or_o hear_v in_o sermon_n the_o sad_a sentence_n of_o god_n against_o such_o and_o such_o sin_n which_o do_v reign_v in_o the_o wicked_a satan_n fly_v on_o he_o with_o a_o false_a application_n say_v thou_o be_v the_o man_n and_o do_v not_o a_o little_a disquiet_n the_o weak_a in_o faith_n in_o which_o case_n let_v the_o afflict_a consider_v that_o whatsoever_o be_v speak_v in_o or_o from_o scripture_n of_o the_o malediction_n of_o the_o law_n be_v speak_v against_o they_o that_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o covenant_n of_o work_n 1_o tim._n 1._o 8._o who_o have_v not_o repent_v their_o sin_n nor_o flee_v to_o christ_n nor_o be_v aim_v at_o reformation_n of_o life_n and_o sanctification_n but_o these_o curse_n be_v not_o speak_v against_o the_o righteous_a that_o be_v to_o say_v against_o such_o as_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sinfulness_n do_v loath_a themselves_o and_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n and_o have_v take_v on_o his_o yoke_n upon_o they_o already_o justify_v and_o begin_v to_o be_v sanctify_v 5._o sometime_o satan_n do_v abuse_v the_o scripture_n and_o put_v a_o wrong_a sense_n upon_o it_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v wound_v these_o that_o be_v weak_a in_o the_o faith_n for_o example_n it_o be_v write_v rom._n 14._o 23._o whosoever_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o eat_v but_o thou_o say_v satan_n to_o the_o young_a and_o weak_a convert_n have_v do_v many_o thing_n whereof_o thou_o do_v doubt_v whether_o they_o be_v lawful_a or_o not_o yea_o thou_o have_v eat_v the_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n with_o doubt_v therefore_o thou_o be_v damn_v again_o it_o be_v write_v 1_o cor._n 11._o 29._o he_o that_o eat_v the_o sacramental_a bread_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o dink_v of_o the_o cup_n of_o the_o lord_n unworthy_o eat_v and_o drink_v his_o own_o condemnation_n but_o thou_o say_v satan_n haste_v eat_v the_o bread_n and_o drunken_a the_o cup_n of_o the_o lord_n unworthy_o for_o thou_o know_v thou_o be_v very_o unworthy_a therefore_o thou_o have_v eat_v and_o drunken_a thy_o own_o condemnation_n in_o this_o case_n and_o such_o other_o like_a let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n inquire_v of_o the_o pastor_n or_o some_o faithful_a christian_a better_a acquaint_v with_o scripture_n concern_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o word_n of_o scripture_n which_o seem_v to_o make_v against_o he_o that_o the_o word_n be_v well_o understand_v the_o doubt_n may_v be_v dissolve_v as_o for_o example_n these_o foresay_a abuse_a scripture_n do_v only_o declare_v the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n against_o he_o that_o do_v what_o he_o doubt_v to_o be_v lawful_a but_o do_v not_o exclude_v he_o from_o mercy_n upon_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o fly_v to_o the_o mercy_n offer_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o by_o eat_v and_o drink_v unworthy_o we_o must_v not_o understand_v that_o every_o one_o who_o find_v himself_o unworthy_a fly_v to_o the_o grace_n offer_v and_o seal_v in_o the_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n eat_v unworthy_o for_o so_o no_o man_n shall_v eat_v worthy_o for_o all_o worthy_a communicant_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o unworthiness_n must_v and_o do_v fly_v to_o free_a grace_n offer_v in_o christ_n but_o the_o meaning_n be_v that_o these_o do_v eat_v and_o drink_v unworthy_o who_o profane_a the_o sacrament_n and_o put_v no_o difference_n betwixt_o this_o holy_a banquet_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o a_o common_a supper_n yea_o and_o even_o this_o sin_n of_o not_o discern_v the_o lord_n body_n do_v not_o exclude_v the_o man_n from_o mercy_n for_o the_o apostle_n for_o remedy_n of_o this_o sin_n exhort_v these_o who_o be_v guilty_a to_o judge_v themselves_o that_o so_o they_o may_v not_o be_v judge_v by_o god_n who_o pardon_v the_o penitent_a 1_o cor._n 11._o 31._o and_o so_o let_v the_o afflict_a for_o strengthen_v of_o his_o faith_n know_v that_o every_o scripture_n which_o speak_v against_o sin_n do_v drive_v the_o guilty_a man_n unto_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n without_o who_o grace_n seek_v after_o and_o embrace_v there_o be_v no_o salvation_n 6._o sometime_o satan_n the_o adversary_n of_o all_o convert_v do_v assault_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n child_n when_o he_o find_v they_o under_o some_o present_a guiltiness_n late_o contract_v or_o under_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n as_o under_o desertion_n and_o disconsolation_n or_o some_o miserable_a condition_n whereof_o he_o take_v advantage_n to_o suggest_v to_o the_o child_n of_o god_n that_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o fantasy_n that_o god_n neither_o love_v he_o nor_o can_v love_v the_o like_a of_o he_o in_o which_o case_n let_v the_o afflict_a humble_a himself_o before_o god_n and_o fly_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n offer_v reconciliation_n let_v he_o 1._o resolve_v firm_o to_o adhere_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n offer_v to_o self-condemned_n sinner_n through_o christ._n 2._o let_v he_o observe_v his_o present_a condition_n to_o be_v the_o day_n of_o his_o visitation_n trial_n and_o probation_n what_o use_v he_o will_v make_v of_o christ_n in_o his_o difficulty_n and_o strait_n 3._o let_v he_o in_o the_o use_n of_o god_n worship_n wait_v for_o the_o daystar_n of_o divine_a consolation_n promise_v to_o those_o that_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n isa._n 49._o 10._o 11_o and_o hos._n 6._o 3._o and_o isa._n 40._o 31._o and_o last_o of_o all_o lest_o we_o insist_v too_o long_o in_o reckon_v the_o innumerable_a wile_n of_o the_o crafty_a serpent_n let_v every_o convert_v consider_v that_o there_o be_v no_o time_n while_o we_o dwell_v in_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o this_o body_n of_o death_n wherein_o we_o may_v be_v secure_a
let_v the_o convert_v thus_o mistake_v after_o his_o experience_n feel_v that_o he_o have_v be_v carnal_o confident_a not_o be_v discourage_v as_o if_o his_o confidence_n which_o he_o seem_v to_o have_v place_v on_o god_n be_v altogether_o vain_a and_o in_o no_o degree_n spiritual_a but_o let_v he_o first_o be_v humble_v before_o god_n and_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o lord_n rod_n let_v he_o acknowledge_v the_o wisdom_n justice_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n who_o have_v remove_v this_o prop_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n and_o reduce_v he_o from_o go_v astray_o to_o depend_v more_o on_o god_n than_o he_o have_v do_v 2._o let_v he_o strengthen_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n according_a to_o the_o renor_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o he_o find_v his_o own_o unrighteousness_n in_o follow_v and_o rely_v on_o creature-comfort_n to_o have_v be_v great_a 3._o let_v he_o set_v his_o affection_n upon_o thing_n spiritual_a which_o be_v above_o the_o earth_n and_o to_o be_v find_v in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n col._n 3._o 1._o 23._o and_o to_o loose_v his_o estimation_n and_o affection_n from_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v on_o earth_n 4._o because_o this_o sickness_n be_v not_o well_o observe_v except_o in_o the_o time_n of_o adversity_n let_v the_o afflict_a person_n approve_v himself_o in_o the_o point_n of_o sincerity_n of_o adherence_n unto_o god_n by_o his_o trust_n in_o god_n now_o when_o he_o want_v mean_n and_o creature-comfort_n as_o job_n do_v who_o in_o this_o condition_n bless_v god_n for_o the_o give_v of_o the_o benefit_n and_o bless_a god_n at_o the_o remove_n of_o they_o from_o he_o job._n 1._o 21._o for_o by_o so_o do_v he_o shall_v learn_v both_o to_o have_v and_o want_v and_o in_o every_o condition_n to_o be_v content_a as_o the_o apostle_n be_v teach_v phil_n 4._o 12._o and_o this_o be_v for_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n the_o other_o sort_n of_o carnal_a confidence_n be_v that_o which_o too_o much_o lean_v to_o some_o apparent_a measure_n of_o the_o operation_n and_o fruit_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n observe_v by_o the_o convert_n in_o himself_o and_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v take_v up_o and_o perceive_v chief_o by_o comparison_n of_o the_o convert_v strong_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o so_o long_o as_o he_o can_v find_v evidenc●_n sign_n of_o his_o regeneration_n and_o work_v of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 〈◊〉_d himself_o with_o ●is_n weak_a confidence_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o under_o the_o cloud_n of_o descrtion_n or_o under_o some_o powerful_a temptation_n when_o these_o evident_a sign_n of_o his_o conversion_n be_v darken_v or_o do_v not_o appear_v so_o clear_o unto_o himself_o as_o they_o do_v 〈◊〉_d in_o which_o case_n his_o confidence_n be_v great_o weaken_v and_o his_o faith_n not_o a_o little_a shake_v with_o doubt_v in_o both_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o condition_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n stand_v fix_v and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n remain_v the_o same_o and_o the_o convert_v still_o adher_v to_o the_o covenant_n and_o claim_v interest_n in_o christ_n more_o or_o less_o confident_a whence_o come_v then_o this_o difference_n between_o his_o former_a confidence_n which_o be_v strong_a and_o his_o weak_a confidence_n now_o in_o the_o change_n of_o his_o case_n be_v bring_v low_a certain_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o smite_v of_o the_o pillar_n whereupon_o his_o former_a confidence_n be_v too_o much_o fix_v for_o whensoever_o the_o mist_n be_v clear_v up_o and_o he_o find_v the_o livelynesse_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o his_o confidence_n convalesce_v and_o return_n to_o it_o be_v former_a strength_n as_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o and_o when_o his_o grace_n be_v darken_v he_o fall_v in_o a_o languish_a weakness_n of_o faith_n this_o sickness_n be_v so_o frequent_o incident_a to_o the_o saint_n that_o few_o shall_v be_v find_v who_o be_v not_o again_o and_o again_o overtake_v in_o it_o for_o how_o few_o be_v they_o who_o be_v not_o much_o more_o confident_a when_o they_o find_v a_o heart_n free_o pour_v forth_o in_o prayer_n when_o they_o enjoy_v the_o peace_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n when_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v shed_v abroad_o in_o their_o heart_n when_o they_o find_v the_o consolation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n when_o they_o observe_v the_o ●ruits_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o themselves_o when_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n shine_v in_o their_o soul_n and_o the_o token_n of_o god_n savour_n towards_o they_o be_v manifest_a and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n when_o they_o find_v their_o spiritual_a condition_n change_v when_o darkness_n fall_v on_o their_o spirit_n when_o they_o find_v themselves_o unfit_a for_o worship_n and_o unable_a to_o do_v service_n but_o most_o of_o all_o when_o they_o perceive_v token_n of_o fatherly_a wrath_n against_o they_o superadd_v unto_o the_o foresay_a evil_n in_o this_o case_n who_o be_v he_o that_o beside_o the_o inevitable_a perturbation_n of_o mind_n incident_a to_o those_o who_o be_v strong_a in_o faith_n do_v not_o find_v a_o diminution_n of_o his_o former_a confidence_n and_o a_o conflict_n with_o temptation_n fear_n doubt_n and_o difficulty_n which_o diminution_n and_o abate_v of_o his_o confidence_n in_o his_o trial_n and_o inward_a exercise_n do_v evident_o prove_v that_o in_o his_o best_a condition_n he_o have_v lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o on_o the_o mutable_a disposition_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o have_v not_o so_o stucken_v to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n through_o jesus_n as_o become_v he_o 2._o that_o this_o sickness_n may_v be_v the_o more_o easy_o clear_v and_o cure_v it_o be_v expedient_a to_o answer_v some_o question_n which_o be_v discuss_v may_v inform_v and_o edify_v the_o afflict_a question_v 1_o the_o first_o question_n which_o the_o afflict_a may_v propound_v be_v this_o see_v the_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n manifest_v in_o the_o bestow_n and_o continue_v of_o common_a benefit_n and_o gift_n outward_a and_o inward_a do_v certain_o serve_v to_o confirm_v a_o man_n faith_n in_o god_n be_v it_o not_o very_o reasonable_a to_o say_v that_o the_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n manifest_v in_o the_o remove_n of_o those_o benefit_n do_v certain_o serve_v to_o debilitat_fw-la and_o weaken_v a_o man_n faith_n ans._n 1._o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n and_o sign_n of_o god_n wrath_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a because_o god_n can_v carry_v love_n and_o favour_n to_o a_o man_n and_o be_v angry_a at_o he_o also_o for_o the_o present_a ill_a disposition_n wherein_o he_o be_v for_o love_n and_o fatherly_a wrath_n be_v not_o opposite_a and_o inconsistent_a but_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v inconsistent_a 2._o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o any_o sign_n whatsoever_o of_o god_n favour_n may_v be_v make_v use_n of_o by_o the_o convert_n for_o strengthen_v of_o his_o faith_n yet_o it_o must_v not_o be_v grant_v that_o the_o take_v away_o of_o those_o sign_n of_o favour_n shall_v be_v make_v use_n of_o for_o weaken_v of_o a_o man_n faith_n for_o many_o thing_n may_v encourage_v a_o man_n to_o do_v his_o duty_n which_o be_v remove_v must_v not_o discourage_v he_o or_o just_o hinder_v he_o to_o do_v his_o duty_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o man_n who_o never_o find_v any_o other_o sign_n of_o god_n favour_n beside_o prosperity_n in_o common_a benefit_n and_o the_o man_n who_o beside_o common_a benefit_n have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o grace_n upon_o his_o spirit_n bring_v he_o unto_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o chase_v he_o to_o christ_n and_o make_v he_o to_o take_v on_o his_o yoke_n the_o first_o sort_n of_o man_n can_v neither_o from_o the_o have_v nor_o want_v or_o removal_n of_o common_a benefit_n conclude_v eh_n be_v love_v or_o hate_v for_o so_o be_v we_o teach_v eccles._n 9_o 1_o 2_o no_o man_n know_v either_o love_n or_o hatred_n by_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o all_o thing_n come_v alike_o to_o all_o etc._n etc._n but_o a_o man_n of_o this_o sort_n have_v reason_n to_o judge_v that_o the_o send_n on_o he_o adversity_n and_o waken_n of_o he_o out_o of_o a_o fl●shly_a and_o deadly_a security_n do_v speak_v more_o of_o god_n favour_n to_o he_o than_o his_o prosperity_n do_v and_o this_o other_o sort_n of_o man_n who_o have_v feel_v a_o work_n of_o special_a grace_n on_o their_o heart_n may_v make_v use_n both_o of_o their_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n for_o confirmation_n of_o their_o faith_n 4._o put_v case_n that_o a_o convert_n chase_v unto_o christ_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o resolve_v to_o bear_v christ_n yoke_n upon_o he_o shall_v find_v common_a benefit_n take_v back_o
from_o he_o in_o fatherly_a wrath_n yet_o must_v he_o not_o yield_v to_o the_o weaken_n of_o his_o faith_n but_o rather_o yet_o more_o humble_a himself_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n which_o have_v stir_v up_o wrath_n against_o he_o and_o fly_v in_o to_o christ_n and_o lie_v hold_v more_o close_o upon_o his_o grace_n because_o god_n be_v offend_v be_v not_o pacify_v nor_o please_v save_v only_o by_o fly_v in_o t●_n jesus_n christ._n quest._n ii_o q._n but_o what_o will_v you_o say_v unto_o they_o who_o confidence_n be_v weaken_v whether_o they_o will_v or_o not_o whensoever_o they_o apprehend_v god_n angry_a against_o they_o and_o especial_o when_o they_o feel_v that_o god_n be_v provoke_v just_o remove_v gift_n and_o benefit_n comfortable_a from_o they_o ans._n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v doubt_v that_o the_o confidence_n of_o many_o true_a convert_n be_v shake_v and_o weaken_v in_o this_o case_n but_o the_o question_n be_v what_o shall_v be_v say_v unto_o they_o we_o answer_v that_o they_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o they_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o upon_o these_o carnal_a prop_n the_o fail_v whereof_o make_v they_o to_o fall_v 2._o let_v they_o be_v humble_v yet_o more_o because_o of_o such_o sin_n as_o have_v provoke_v god_n to_o change_v his_o dispensation_n towards_o they_o 3._o let_v they_o lean_v more_o upon_o the_o only_a rock_n of_o free_a grace_n in_o jesus_n christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o the_o comfort_n and_o relief_n of_o all_o those_o who_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o ill_a deserve_n and_o of_o any_o measure_n of_o apparent_a fatherly_a wrath_n that_o hereafter_o however_o it_o fair_a with_o they_o they_o may_v rely_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o only_a foundation_n to_o build_v ourselves_o upon_o and_o who_o grace_n be_v sufficient_a to_o help_v and_o uphold_v they_o who_o have_v their_o recourse_n unto_o he_o in_o every_o condition_n whether_o it_o be_v adversity_n or_o prosperity_n quest._n iii_o q._n albeit_o common_a benefit_n be_v not_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o god_n favour_n yet_o new_a obedience_n of_o faith_n and_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v sure_a sign_n of_o god_n special_a favour_n bestow_v only_o on_o the_o elect_a see_v then_o as_o these_o sign_n when_o they_o be_v present_a serve_v much_o for_o the_o strengthen_n of_o faith_n so_o also_o when_o they_o be_v amiss_v have_v as_o great_a force_n of_o reason_n to_o debilitat_fw-la faith_n yea_o see_v faith_n without_o fruit_n be_v dead_a may_v it_o not_o be_v conclude_v where_o no_o fruit_n be_v no_o faith_n be_v ans._n if_o the_o question_n be_v of_o the_o universal_a want_n of_o all_o fruit_n of_o faith_n such_o as_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o all_o unrenewed_a man_n who_o fruit_n can_v be_v good_a so_o long_o as_o the_o tree_n be_v evil_a who_o seem_a service_n can_v be_v acceptable_a so_o long_o as_o they_o remain_v unreconciled_a to_o god_n through_o christ_n let_v the_o question_n be_v yield_v unto_o but_o we_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o true_a convert_n in_o who_o there_o be_v a_o miss_v of_o the_o measure_n of_o former_o feel_v fruit_n and_o that_o in_o the_o time_n present_a wherein_o by_o some_o temptation_n or_o trial_n their_o faith_n be_v sift_v and_o winnow_v and_o here_o indeed_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o they_o that_o be_v never_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n nor_o lead_v for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o true_a convert_n who_o have_v renounce_v the_o work_n of_o darkness_n and_o have_v flee_v unto_o christ_n and_o consecrate_v himself_o to_o his_o service_n and_o who_o be_v set_v upon_o a_o new_a course_n of_o life_n have_v bring_v forth_o new_a fruit_n of_o repentance_n faith_n love_n and_o hope_n and_o have_v feel_v consolation_n in_o this_o course_n and_o now_o under_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n look_v upon_o himself_o as_o barren_a ground_n do_v lament_v his_o impotency_n to_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n and_o while_o he_o be_v under_o this_o exercise_n live_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n blameless_a and_o free_a of_o scandal-giving_a great_a odds_n between_o this_o man_n and_o a_o man_n yet_o in_o nature_n we_o grant_v in_o the_o unrenewed_a man_n who_o be_v a_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o grace_n and_o true_a godliness_n the_o sentence_n hold_v no_o fruit_n no_o faith_n but_o as_o for_o the_o convert_n who_o have_v have_v comfort_n in_o christ_n and_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n in_o some_o measure_n he_o must_v not_o reason_n from_o his_o present_a dead_a condition_n feel_v and_o lament_a barrenness_n to_o the_o deny_v of_o true_a faith_n in_o christ_n or_o to_o the_o weaken_n of_o his_o say_v or_o mar_v his_o confidence_n further_o then_o to_o acknowledge_v he_o have_v lean_v too_o much_o on_o his_o former_o feel_a fruit_n and_o have_v not_o ground_v himself_o whole_o on_o christ_n and_o the_o rock_n of_o free_a grace_n in_o he_o but_o may_v and_o shall_v maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n against_o his_o discouragement_n that_o he_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o more_o ripe_a and_o abundant_a fruit_n quest._n iu._n q._n but_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v to_o humble_a convert_n who_o look_v to_o the_o holy_a law_n of_o god_n and_o find_v no_o fruit_n such_o as_o shall_v be_v do_v pass_v sentence_n in_o the_o time_n of_o tentation_n upon_o all_o their_o work_n as_o unworthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o then_o do_v dispute_v against_o their_o own_o faith_n by_o the_o apostle_n word_n jam._n 2._o 20._o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a ans._n if_o the_o conscience_n do_v pronounce_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n as_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v indeed_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a and_o god_n be_v great_a than_o the_o conscience_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n but_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v mislead_v by_o a_o tentation_n powerful_o press_v in_o by_o satan_n in_o the_o time_n of_o some_o sad_a affliction_n and_o appearance_n of_o god_n displeasure_n the_o testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a proof_n to_o infer_v so_o hard_a a_o conclusion_n for_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v ofttimes_o that_o the_o convert_n who_o live_v blameless_o and_o entertain_v the_o love_n and_o purpose_n of_o well-doing_n in_o his_o heart_n follow_v the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n constant_o be_v not_o negligent_a in_o his_o call_n and_o be_v ready_a upon_o occasion_n offer_v to_o let_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o love_n to_o his_o neighbour_n for_o all_o this_o sometime_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o under_o desertion_n see_v no_o light_n as_o isaiah_n 50._o 10._o in_o this_o case_n it_o may_v be_v he_o set_v all_o his_o work_n at_o nought_o as_o no_o way_n answerable_a to_o the_o lord_n law_n i_o see_v nothing_o say_v he_o but_o sin_n in_o i_o i_o see_v no_o fruit_n of_o true_a faith_n in_o i_o i_o feel_v no_o operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o i_o save_o the_o work_n of_o convince_a i_o of_o sin_n and_o unrighteousness_n in_o this_o case_n we_o must_v not_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o afflict_a but_o convince_v he_o rather_o of_o his_o error_n and_o in_o special_a of_o his_o lean_v too_o much_o weight_n on_o his_o work_n before_o this_o sad_a exercise_n fall_v upon_o he_o for_o when_o a_o convert_n maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n only_o so_o oft_o and_o so_o long_o as_o he_o find_v in_o himself_o the_o fruit_n of_o new_a obedience_n but_o when_o he_o have_v new_a experience_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o find_v the_o course_n of_o good_a behaviour_n and_o bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n to_o be_v interrupt_v in_o himself_o incontinent_a he_o resile_n from_o his_o confidence_n such_o a_o man_n certain_o give_v evidence_n that_o he_o have_v rely_v too_o much_o on_o his_o former_a feel_a righteousness_n an_o himself_o for_o he_o do_v as_o if_o he_o dare_v not_o for_o sin_n approach_v unto_o christ_n and_o so_o he_o fall_v in_o peter_n case_n who_o look_v on_o his_o own_o sinfulness_n and_o the_o brightness_n of_o christ_n godhead_n shine_v in_o a_o recent_a miracle_n cry_v out_o luke_n 5._o 8._o depart_n from_o i_o o_o lord_n i_o be_o a_o sinful_a man_n for_o peter_z in_o this_o case_n do_v forget_v christ_n mediatory_a office_n and_o that_o he_o stand_v so_o much_o the_o more_o need_n of_o christ_n draw_v near_a to_o he_o as_o he_o be_v a_o man_n convince_v of_o sinfulness_n another_o answer_n we_o give_v to_o this_o question_n the_o afflict_a person_n must_v not_o think_v that_o he_o want_v altogether_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n albeit_o he_o find_v they_o to_o be_v short_a of_o the_o
perfection_n which_o the_o law_n do_v require_v albeit_o he_o find_v not_o the_o fruit_n whensoever_o he_o will_v exact_v they_o albeit_o he_o find_v they_o not_o in_o that_o measure_n as_o he_o have_v find_v they_o before_o for_o as_o tree_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v dead_a or_o barren_a which_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n in_o due_a season_n albeit_o they_o bear_v not_o fruit_n in_o winter_n so_o faith_n be_v not_o to_o be_v esteem_v dead_a which_o as_o occasion_n be_v offer_v bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n at_o one_o time_n of_o mercy_n at_o another_o time_n of_o justice_n and_o equity_n at_o another_o time_n the_o evidence_n of_o zeal_n at_o another_o time_n of_o love_n and_o other_o virtue_n albeit_o when_o occasion_n or_o opportunity_n offer_v not_o it_o do_v not_o exercise_v such_o and_o such_o virtue_n yea_o albeit_o sometime_o when_o occasion_n call_v for_o the_o evidence_n of_o such_o and_o such_o gracious_a virtue_n the_o convert_n be_v sometime_o find_v in-laking_a or_o short_a of_o do_v duty_n or_o guilty_a of_o do_v contrary_a to_o duty_n faith_n must_v not_o be_v count_v dead_a for_o all_o that_o because_o it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o faith_n may_v be_v so_o wound_v and_o fall_v sick_a and_o languish_v and_o fall_v in_o a_o swoon_n that_o it_o can_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n till_o it_o be_v recover_v of_o its_o sickness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o jonah_n david_n and_o peter_n who_o faith_n faint_v but_o fail_v not_o altogether_o it_o be_v true_a they_o suspect_v they_o be_v cut_v off_o and_o go_v when_o they_o be_v in_o hard_a exercise_n but_o after_o that_o they_o do_v look_v up_o to_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n draw_v near_o unto_o he_o and_o do_v show_v themselves_o alive_a in_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n last_o of_o all_o we_o answer_v that_o the_o regrate_a of_o the_o humble_a soul_n of_o its_o barrenness_n and_o short-coming_a of_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n as_o it_o will_v be_v no_o small_a evidence_n of_o life_n and_o sense_n in_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o of_o such_o a_o disposition_n it_o may_v be_v say_v as_o it_o be_v write_v cant._n 2._o 13._o the_o figtree_n put_v forth_o its_o green_a fig_n and_o the_o vine_n with_o the_o tender_a grape_n give_v a_o good_a smell_n for_o he_o that_o be_v flee_v to_o christ_n and_o lament_v his_o barrenness_n be_v a_o lover_n of_o do_v good_a work_n and_o of_o bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o gospel_n quest._n v._n q._n but_o how_o can_v a_o man_n maintain_v his_o faith_n in_o christ_n who_o after_o examination_n find_v no_o evidence_n at_o all_o of_o his_o conversion_n and_o that_o all_o his_o former_a life_n have_v be_v spend_v in_o the_o unfruitful_a course_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v so_o indeed_o he_o have_v live_v after_o the_o course_n of_o this_o world_n a_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n of_o god_n and_o grace_n ans._n let_v such_o a_o man_n examination_n and_o sentence_n of_o himself_o stand_v be_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n but_o this_o sentence_n of_o himself_o must_v not_o hinder_v he_o from_o believe_v in_o christ_n or_o from_o fly_v to_o he_o for_o refuge_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n for_o reconciliation_n and_o furniture_n of_o grace_n to_o bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o he_o have_v bring_v forth_o before_o he_o have_v prove_v against_o himself_o that_o in_o time_n by-gone_a he_o have_v no●_n be_v a_o regenerate_a man_n have_v not_o be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n but_o he_o have_v not_o cut_v off_o himself_o from_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o for_o time_n to_o come_v for_o he_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o these_o two_o question_n whether_o i_o have_v be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o sincere_a believer_n in_o christ_n heretofore_o and_o whether_o i_o must_v now_o ●lye_v to_o christ_n for_o time_n to_o come_v that_o i_o may_v be_v find_v hereafter_o and_o henceforth_o a_o true_a convert_n believe_v in_o christ_n his_o former_a want_n of_o good_a fruit_n altogether_o do_v prove_v he_o not_o to_o have_v be_v a_o believer_n in_o christ_n for_o time_n bypass_a which_o be_v the_o first_o question_n and_o the_o same_o want_n of_o all_o good_a fruit_n heretofore_o do_v answer_v the_o other_o question_n for_o his_o present_a duty_n and_o in_o time_n to_o come_v to_o wit_n that_o now_o except_o he_o will_v perish_v he_o must_v fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o in_o prove_v of_o this_o assertion_n that_o i_o have_v heretofore_o for_o such_o a_o space_n of_o time_n be_v a_o true_a convert_n i_o must_v bring_v forth_o the_o evidence_n of_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n as_o the_o apostle_n james_n appoint_v show_v i_o thy_o faith_n by_o thy_o work_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o my_o faith_n by_o my_o work_n but_o in_o prove_v this_o other_o assertion_n to_o wit_n i_o must_v now_o fly_v to_o christ_n while_o the_o offer_n be_v make_v to_o i_o of_o reconciliation_n leave_v i_o perish_v it_o will_v suffice_v to_o produce_v first_o my_o want_n of_o good_a fruit_n and_o next_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o gospel_n charge_v i_o to_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n in_o time_n le●t_o i_o perish_v and_o so_o a_o man_n must_v maintain_v the_o way_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n for_o time_n to_o come_v whether_o he_o find_v he_o have_v be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d or_o a_o barren_a branch_n in_o time_n bygone_a or_o not_o quest._n vi_o q._n sing_v the_o apostle_n 2_o pet._n 1._o 10._o command_v we_o to_o make_v our_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a by_o well-doing_n how_o can_v it_o be_v call_v carnal_a confidence_n which_o in_o part_n do_v lean_a upon_o good_a work_n for_o see_v assurance_n and_o certainty_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n be_v not_o attain_v unto_o but_o by_o reason_v from_o our_o good_a work_n that_o we_o be_v call_v effectual_o and_o be_v elect_v how_o do_v not_o our_o work_n support_v the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n concern_v our_o call_n and_o election_n and_o so_o may_v be_v lean_v unto_o ans._n a_o man_n may_v make_v use_n of_o his_o good_a work_n for_o confirmation_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o yet_o not_o lean_a his_o confidence_n upon_o his_o work_n but_o upon_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n who_o have_v call_v he_o of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o make_v he_o embrace_v the_o offer_n of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o give_v unto_o he_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o make_v he_o to_o be_v god_n workmanship_n create_v of_o god_n free_a grace_n unto_o good_a work_n wherein_o he_o have_v make_v he_o to_o walk_v thus_o grace_n be_v by_o god_n word_n and_o work_v clear_v up_o to_o the_o believer_n to_o rest_v upon_o without_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o the_o man_n work_n but_o if_o a_o man_n lie_v hold_v on_o christ_n and_o his_o free_a grace_n only_o then_o when_o he_o observe_v in_o himself_o such_o and_o such_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o lose_v or_o slack_v his_o grip_n of_o christ_n when_o he_o feel_v deadness_n and_o indisposition_n to_o good_a work_n just_o we_o may_v call_v this_o a_o carnal_a confidence_n in_o his_o work_n for_o when_o he_o ought_v with_o paul_n rom._n 7._o 24_o 25._o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o fly_v in_o to_o christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n as_o he_o find_v the_o body_n of_o death_n powerful_a in_o he_o and_o inborn_a sin_n strong_a to_o hinder_v his_o obedience_n he_o do_v contrary_a way_n abate_v of_o his_o confidence_n languish_v and_o decay_v in_o his_o faith_n and_o look_v like_o a_o departer_n from_o christ_n we_o must_v say_v he_o put_v carnal_a confidence_n in_o his_o own_o work_n quest._n vii_o q._n but_o see_v it_o be_v impossible_a to_o persuade_v i_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o save_a faith_n in_o i_o except_o i_o do_v observe_v in_o i_o and_o can_v bring_v forth_o my_o good_a work_n to_o prove_v the_o reality_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o i_o shall_v not_o lean_v weight_n on_o my_o good_a work_n see_v the_o proof_n of_o my_o faith_n be_v by_o my_o work_n which_o proof_n if_o i_o have_v not_o i_o be_o at_o a_o stand_n i_o can_v prove_v myself_o to_o have_v be_v a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n i_o can_v persuade_v myself_o that_o i_o have_v be_v and_o be_o a_o true_a believer_n in_o christ_n ans._n 1._o the_o observation_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o be_v not_o the_o only_a proof_n of_o my_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o very_a act_n of_o embrace_v the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n make_v to_o i_o in_o the_o gospel_n and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o a_o refuge_n when_o i_o be_o chase_v by_o the_o law_n by_o the_o
conscience_n and_o feel_v wrath_n pursue_v i_o for_o sin_n may_v be_v clear_a to_o i_o by_o its_o own_o light_n and_o scriptural_a evidence_n albeit_o it_o be_v possible_o the_o very_a instant_n of_o my_o conversion_n i_o can_v produce_v any_o fruit_n or_o evidence_n of_o my_o conversion_n past_a or_o else_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v of_o malefactor_n on_o the_o scaffold_n present_o to_o be_v put_v to_o death_n and_o possible_o not_o waken_v in_o conscience_n before_o not_o flee_v to_o christ_n before_o what_o shall_v be_v say_v of_o sick_a person_n near_o unto_o death_n who_o be_v self-condemned_n do_v betake_v themselves_o in_o their_o last_o agony_n unto_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n offer_v to_o self-condemned_n sinner_n in_o the_o gospel_n 2._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o a_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o a_o reason_n why_o i_o may_v and_o must_v now_o believe_v the_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o i_o have_v believe_v be_v from_o the_o effect_n to_o prove_v the_o cause_n thereof_o to_o wit_n faith_n to_o be_v in_o i_o but_o the_o reason_n why_o i_o may_v now_o and_o must_v believe_v be_v from_o the_o cause_n to_o infer_v the_o effect_n that_o shall_v be_v in_o i_o the_o cause_n of_o believe_v in_o christ_n be_v god_n command_n to_o self-condemned_n sinner_n which_o command_n i_o must_v now_o obey_v leave_v i_o perish_v and_o so_o if_o i_o find_v fruit_n i_o prove_v i_o have_v believe_v because_o i_o feel_v the_o love_n of_o god_n shed_v abroad_o in_o my_o heart_n and_o that_o i_o love_v god_n who_o have_v free_o love_v i_o and_o here_o i_o reason_n from_o the_o effect_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o cause_n of_o this_o fruit_n to_o wit_n sa●ing_v faith_n have_v precede_v and_o be_v go_v before_o again_o i_o prove_v that_o i_o shall_v believe_v because_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o free_a grace_n in_o christ_n make_v to_o all_o self-condemned_n person_n renounce_v confidence_n in_o their_o own_o worth_n or_o work_n be_v make_v to_o i_o with_o a_o command_n to_o believe_v in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n christ_n jesus_n for_o which_o cause_n i_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o cast_v myself_o upon_o his_o grace_n who_o justify_v the_o ungodly_a fly_v to_o he_o without_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n 3._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o my_o have_a fruit_n of_o faith_n in_o i_o and_o my_o observe_n and_o find_v these_o fruit_n in_o i_o for_o a_o true_a convert_n may_v have_v both_o faith_n and_o fruit_n and_o for_o the_o time_n be_v under_o trial_n and_o temptation_n may_v be_v so_o darken_v that_o he_o can_v see_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o sin_n and_o apparent_a wrath_n pursue_v he_o for_o sin_n as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o jonah_n in_o the_o belly_n of_o the_o fish_n jonah_n 2._o 4._o and_o david_n ps._n 51_o 9_o 10._o 4._o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o have_v be_v and_o be_o a_o true_a convert_n and_o a_o sincere_a believer_n and_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o have_v right_a reason_n and_o good_a warrant_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n in_o my_o low_a condition_n howsoever_o than_o i_o find_v myself_o empty_v of_o all_o sign_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o i_o for_o the_o time_n yet_o my_o persuasion_n that_o i_o shall_v in_o this_o sad_a condition_n fly_v to_o christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o do_v serve_v to_o make_v i_o consent_v hearty_o unto_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n in_o christ_n do_v serve_v to_o make_v way_n for_o my_o justification_n and_o lose_v all_o doubt_n and_o objection_n of_o satan_n tempt_v i_o to_o mis-believe_a and_o to_o run_v away_o from_o christ_n and_o the_o offer_a mercy_n in_o he_o 5._o and_o last_o of_o all_o i_o must_v put_v difference_n between_o make_v use_n of_o good_a fruit_n bring_v forth_o by_o i_o for_o confirmation_n of_o my_o faith_n and_o my_o put_a confidence_n in_o or_o lay_v weight_n on_o these_o good_a fruit_n for_o many_o true_a convert_n do_v here_o fail_v and_o do_v not_o mark_v the_o mistake_n for_o when_o they_o find_v love_n to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n with_o fear_n and_o holy_a reverence_n and_o such_o other_o like_o sign_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o outward_a fruit_n thereof_o in_o their_o life_n than_o they_o do_v believe_v in_o christ_n and_o rejoice_v in_o he_o but_o when_o at_o another_o time_n they_o find_v hardness_n of_o heart_n profanity_n and_o perverseness_n of_o a_o wicked_a nature_n in_o themselves_o they_o be_v like_a to_o quit_v their_o interest_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o to_o stand_v aloof_o from_o christ_n like_o stranger_n when_o they_o shall_v most_o be_v humble_v and_o creep_v in_o to_o he_o for_o remission_n of_o sin_n a●d_v hide_v of_o their_o nakedness_n by_o his_o impute_a righteousness_n and_o what_o be_v this_o in_o effect_n else_o then_o in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o lean_v on_o their_o work_n and_o holy_a disposition_n as_o if_o there_o be_v merit_n in_o they_o and_o then_o after_o in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n who_o have_v furnish_v they_o those_o fruit_n whereas_o they_o shall_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n first_o fly_v to_o christ_n and_o firm_o adhere_v to_o he_o by_o faith_n that_o out_o of_o his_o fullness_n they_o may_v receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n according_a as_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o do_v by_o christ_n himself_o joh._n 15._o 5._o he_o that_o abide_v in_o i_o and_o l_o in_o he_o the_o same_o bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n for_o without_o i_o you_o can_v do_v nothing_o chap._n vii_o concern_v the_o case_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o some_o point_n of_o doctrine_n delude_v and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n to_o speak_v of_o delusion_n and_o bewitch_a in_o the_o general_n require_v a_o large_a treatise_n it_o shall_v suffice_v our_o purpose_n to_o speak_v of_o it_o as_o it_o have_v place_n in_o the_o point_n of_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n erroneous_a which_o we_o describe_v thus_o delusion_n be_v a_o powerful_a operation_n of_o a_o lie_a spirit_n whereby_o he_o obtrude_v to_o man_n some_o noisome_a error_n in_o doctrine_n or_o practice_v contrary_a to_o true_a doctrine_n faird_v over_o with_o sophistical_a deceit_n and_o do_v persuade_v inconsiderate_a soul_n effectual_o to_o receive_v the_o error_n for_o truth_n and_o to_o defend_v and_o spread_v it_o in_o their_o rash_a zeal_n for_o explication_n of_o which_o description_n we_o say_v 1._o delusion_n be_v a_o powerful_a operation_n of_o a_o lie_a spirit_n wherein_o satan_n in_o god_n judgement_n be_v permit_v to_o put_v forth_o his_o power_n in_o lie_v effectual_o therefore_o in_o all_o his_o effectual_a delusion_n there_o be_v a_o concur_v righteous_a judgement_n of_o god_n in_o lose_v reins_o to_o the_o rempter_n that_o by_o delusion_n one_o sin_n in_o one_o degree_n may_v be_v punish_v by_o a_o follow_a sin_n in_o a_o high_a degree_n no_o wonder_n therefore_o that_o a_o lie_a spirit_n do_v work_v more_o effectual_o when_o he_o be_v not_o restrain_v by_o the_o powerful_a hand_n of_o god_n 2._o we_o say_v that_o delusion_n be_v in_o some_o dangerous_a error_n tend_v to_o the_o damage_n of_o the_o church_n and_o hazard_v of_o soul_n and_o this_o we_o say_v not_o as_o if_o we_o do_v think_v that_o any_o sin_n do_v not_o draw_v with_o it_o the_o merit_n of_o death_n for_o the_o wage_n of_o every_o sin_n be_v death_n but_o because_o satan_n be_v not_o so_o busy_a to_o spread_v and_o foment_n such_o error_n as_o be_v less_o perilous_a as_o he_o be_v active_a in_o such_o error_n which_o do_v most_o tend_v to_o pester_v the_o church_n and_o divert_v the_o professor_n of_o religion_n from_o the_o path_n way_n of_o save_a doctrine_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n he_o essay_n all_o mean_n that_o he_o may_v obscure_v and_o darken_v the_o truth_n and_o devise_v and_o spread_v abroad_o the_o most_o pernicious_a error_n mean_a time_n he_o be_v not_o idle_a in_o sow_v and_o spread_v lesser_a error_n that_o he_o may_v stir_v up_o contention_n and_o jangle_n in_o the_o church_n whereby_o precious_a time_n which_o shall_v be_v spend_v for_o mutual_a edification_n may_v be_v idle_o waste_v in_o needless_a dispute_n and_o man_n mind_n may_v be_v prepare_v to_o receive_v grosser_n error_n three_o we_o put_v some_o difference_n between_o error_n in_o doctrine_n and_o error_n in_o practice_n albeit_o there_o can_v be_v one_o error_n in_o practice_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o the_o external_a worship_n or_o government_n of_o the_o church_n or_o in_o outward_a conversation_n which_o be_v stiff_o maintain_v have_v not_o some_o error_n of_o judgement_n and_o doctrine_n join_v with_o it_o or_o else_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v contrary_a to_o sound_v doctrine_n
christian_n with_o give_v they_o over_o to_o their_o own_o heart_n lust_n and_o let_v they_o not_o only_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o counsel_n and_o in_o the_o imagination_n of_o their_o own_o ill_a heart_n but_o also_o in_o his_o justice_n send_v to_o they_o strong_a delusion_n and_o false_a teacher_n to_o authorise_v their_o error_n and_o hold_v they_o on_o in_o the_o way_n to_o perdition_n what_o wonder_v to_o see_v god_n for_o the_o light_n esteem_v of_o baptism_n bestow_v on_o man_n in_o their_o infancy_n and_o the_o not_o make_v use_n thereof_o for_o mortification_n of_o lust_n and_o sanctification_n of_o life_n by_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o let_v loose_a fanatic_a anabaptist_n to_o teach_v man_n to_o renounce_v their_o baptism_n what_o wonder_v to_o see_v man_n loose-living_a in_o the_o service_n of_o their_o sensual_a lust_n punish_v with_o let_v loose_a antichristian_a antinomian_o who_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o wantonness_n do_v avouch_v whatsoever_o they_o do_v it_o be_v no_o sin_n and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o keep_v the_o law_n which_o christ_n profess_v he_o come_v not_o to_o dissolve_v but_o by_o the_o contrary_a to_o establish_v it_o what_o wonder_v to_o see_v man_n carnal_a confidence_n in_o their_o own_o wit_n worth_n strength_n and_o ability_n work_n and_o merit_n punish_v with_o let_v loose_a lie_a spirit_n to_o harden_v they_o in_o their_o error_n and_o what_o wonder_v to_o see_v god_n punish_v the_o abuse_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o refuse_v to_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o love_n with_o give_v man_n over_o to_o the_o spirit_n of_o antichrist_n and_o strong_a delusion_n 2_o thess._n 2._o the_o patron_n and_o propagator_n of_o such_o error_n and_o delusion_n be_v call_v by_o the_o apostle_n minister_n of_o satan_n and_o false_a brethren_n 2_o cor_n 11._o 16._o deceiver_n 1_o tim._n 4._o 1._o and_o man_n who_o be_v of_o old_a ordain_v to_o this_o condemnation_n from_o who_o contagion_n and_o punishment_n let_v every_o mislead_a soul_n pray_v to_o god_n to_o be_v deliver_v chap._n viii_o concern_v the_o convert_n conscience_n mistake_v vice_n for_o virtue_n and_o please_v himself_o in_o this_o condition_n this_o case_n differ_v from_o the_o case_n of_o delusion_n which_o we_o have_v take_v for_o err_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n whether_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n pertain_v to_o the_o first_o table_n of_o the_o law_n but_o this_o mistake_a conscience_n be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n when_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o duty_n be_v confess_v but_o in_o practice_n and_o action_n vice_n be_v practise_v under_o the_o notion_n and_o pretence_n of_o virtue_n and_o the_o man_n be_v please_v with_o himself_o in_o so_o do_v whereof_o it_o shall_v suffice_v to_o give_v three_o instance_n the_o first_o instance_n the_o first_o instance_n wherein_o a_o convert_n may_v be_v for_o a_o time_n mistake_v be_v when_o a_o man_n please_v himself_o in_o niggardly_a parsimony_n and_o narrow_a scrape_v together_o of_o money_n to_o the_o hindrance_n of_o spiritual_a duty_n under_o pretence_n of_o frugality_n and_o diligence_n in_o his_o call_n etc._n etc._n whereby_o he_o persuade_v himself_o that_o his_o practice_n be_v so_o far_o from_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v rather_o commendable_a and_o worthy_a to_o be_v imitat_fw-la for_o he_o conceive_v that_o according_a to_o god_n command_v he_o be_v not_o slow_a in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o fervent_a in_o spirit_n serve_v the_o lord_n rom._n 12._o 11._o that_o he_o be_v work_v with_o his_o hand_n that_o which_o be_v good_a ephes._n 4._o 18._o that_o he_o be_v provide_v for_o the_o necessity_n of_o his_o family_n for_o which_o if_o he_o shall_v not_o provide_v he_o shall_v be_v worse_o than_o a_o infidel_n 1_o tim._n 5._o 8._o if_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v find_v so_o to_o be_v after_o examination_n true_a it_o be_v frugality_n diligence_n in_o a_o lawful_a call_n and_o provision_n for_o a_o man_n family_n be_v commendable_a but_o here_o be_v the_o deceit_n of_o the_o heart_n find_v when_o anxiety_n be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_a carefulness_n when_o haste_v to_o be_v rich_a be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_a diligence_n in_o his_o call_n when_o love_n of_o money_n and_o avarice_n be_v find_v in_o stead_n of_o honest_a provision_n for_o a_o man_n family_n we_o grant_v also_o that_o this_o mistake_n be_v not_o easy_o discern_v by_o beholder_n but_o yet_o the_o convert_n himself_o after_o examination_n may_v discern_v it_o when_o he_o look_v upon_o the_o effect_n sign_n and_o concomitant_a evil_n such_o as_o be_v feel_v impediment_n and_o hindrance_n of_o a_o spiritual_a disposition_n for_o this_o covetousness_n of_o thing_n earthly_a whereof_o we_o be_v speak_v do_v mar_v the_o study_n and_o endeavour_v for_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o diminish_v the_o fear_n of_o sin_v in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o gain_n and_o take_v up_o the_o time_n due_a for_o spiritual_a exercise_n in_o this_o case_n carnal_a joy_n in_o the_o get_n gain_n be_v a_o sign_n and_o evidence_n of_o a_o deceive_a heart_n and_o so_o be_v also_o worldly_a grief_n for_o want_n of_o success_n or_o for_o not_o get_v expect_v and_o desire_a gain_n a_o proof_n of_o this_o mistake_n the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v the_o too_o great_a fear_n of_o poverty_n a_o over-high_a estimation_n of_o riches_n a_o diffidence_n of_o god_n providence_n a_o doubt_v of_o god_n promise_n to_o furnish_v his_o own_o with_o food_n and_o raiment_n and_o thing_n necessary_a for_o this_o temporal_a life_n which_o diffidence_n christ_n do_v express_o discharge_v mat._n 6._o 24_o 25._o but_o for_o a_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a the_o person_n guilty_a can_v seek_v after_o nor_o embrace_v it_o so_o long_o as_o he_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o his_o sinful_a condition_n wherefore_o for_o clear_v a_o man_n mind_n in_o this_o point_n let_v he_o examine_v himself_o whether_o in_o follow_v gain_v his_o heart_n be_v ofttimes_o surfeit_v and_o overcharge_v with_o the_o care_n of_o this_o life_n and_o make_v frequent_o indispose_v for_o prayer_n and_o religious_a exercise_n whether_o he_o be_v too_o much_o take_v with_o gladness_n when_o he_o gain_v and_o grief_n when_o he_o suffer_v loss_n and_o worldly_a damage_n whether_o he_o use_v for_o hope_n of_o gain_n or_o fear_v of_o life_n to_o lie_v and_o flatter_v or_o dare_v deal_v injust_o in_o his_o bargain_n whether_o he_o find_v himself_o slow_a unto_o exercise_n of_o religion_n but_o prompt_a and_o ready_a for_o secular_a affair_n whether_o he_o spend_v the_o time_n heavy_o in_o religious_a exercise_n and_o be_v weary_a of_o they_o but_o can_v pass_v the_o time_n pleasant_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o this_o life_n if_o he_o find_v himself_o convince_v by_o shrewd_a sign_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v he_o humble_v himself_o in_o god_n sight_n fly_v unto_o christ_n for_o fasten_v his_o bargain_n for_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n through_o christ_n then_o let_v he_o not_o cast_v off_o his_o diligence_n in_o and_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o his_o lawful_a call_n but_o by_o a_o religious_a disposition_n of_o mind_n and_o observance_n of_o all_o religious_a exercise_n seasonable_o temper_n and_o moderate_a his_o diligence_n in_o secular_a affair_n and_o depend_v upon_o god_n more_o than_o he_o have_v do_v for_o the_o success_n of_o his_o labour_n and_o take_v from_o god_n loss_n or_o advantage_n as_o he_o give_v it_o so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v find_v in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n submissive_a unto_o god_n and_o ready_a for_o the_o discharge_n of_o charity_n and_o equity_n as_o occasion_n shall_v offer_v another_o instance_n there_o be_v another_o instance_n wherein_o a_o convert_n may_v be_v mistake_v to_o wit_n when_o a_o man_n please_v himself_o in_o in_o the_o prosecution_n of_o private_a revenge_n that_o he_o may_v pay_v home_o to_o such_o as_o have_v wrong_v he_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o his_o credit_n and_o reputation_n or_o in_o his_o good_n or_o bodily_a harm_n do_v to_o he_o or_o his_o friend_n for_o this_o ungodly_a disposition_n he_o may_v pretend_v possible_o a_o care_n of_o follow_v retributive_a justice_n wherein_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o come_v short_a except_o he_o shall_v watch_v for_o a_o recompence-giving_a to_o the_o person_n injurious_a he_o may_v possible_o pretend_v a_o dutiful_a respect_n to_o public_a peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o the_o commonwealth_n of_o the_o society_n wherein_o he_o live_v wherein_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o come_v short_a if_o he_o shall_v suffer_v the_o person_n injurious_a to_o he_o to_o go_v away_o unpunished_a he_o may_v pretend_v also_o his_o own_o safety_n and_o security_n for_o time_n to_o come_v whereof_o he_o may_v seem_v to_o himself_o careless_a except_o he_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o whosoever_o do_v he_o wrong_v
convert_n be_v chase_v by_o the_o law_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o law_n for_o righteousness_n unto_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v shall_v stand_v aback_o from_o lay_v hold_n on_o the_o high_a privilege_n of_o saint_n and_o the_o great_a promise_n make_v to_o justify_v soul_n because_o of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n do_v he_o not_o say_v in_o effect_n if_o i_o be_v more_o worthy_a and_o like_a in_o holiness_n unto_o such_o and_o such_o saint_n i_o can_v be_v more_o confident_a to_o lay_v hold_n on_o these_o high_a promise_n which_o ground_n if_o it_o be_v once_o hold_v it_o make_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o man_n confidence_n to_o be_v his_o own_o well-deserving_a and_o not_o the_o mere_a and_o only_a grace_n of_o god_n the_o free_a promiser_n thereof_o and_o so_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n by_o grace_n shall_v be_v undermine_v and_o over-turned_n which_o be_v absurd_a because_o the_o apostle_n ephes_n 2._o 8._o say_v that_o by_o grace_n we_o be_v save_v through_o faith_n and_o that_o not_o of_o ourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n therefore_o let_v not_o the_o humble_a convert_n think_v it_o presumption_n to_o lay_v hold_n on_o christ_n and_o the_o fullness_n of_o all_o promise_a grace_n in_o he_o how_o large_a soever_o it_o be_v chap._n xiii_o of_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o convert_n fear_v that_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o he_o have_v feel_v be_v find_v only_o to_o be_v either_o the_o joy_n of_o speculation_n common_a to_o temporal_a believer_n or_o a_o mere_a delusion_n of_o this_o sort_n also_o be_v this_o case_n wherein_o the_o convert_n do_v suspect_v that_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o he_o have_v feel_v at_o some_o time_n be_v either_o a_o joy_n of_o speculation_n or_o contemplation_n only_o such_o as_o philosopher_n may_v find_v in_o their_o study_n of_o humane_a learning_n or_o else_o a_o delusion_n of_o satan_n also_o this_o case_n may_v fall_v upon_o the_o true_a convert_n in_o the_o time_n of_o affliction_n and_o feel_v desertion_n when_o not_o only_o the_o sense_n of_o consolation_n be_v withdraw_v but_o also_o sorrow_n and_o heaviness_n have_v seize_v on_o his_o spirit_n when_o the_o sharpness_n of_o affliction_n take_v up_o the_o whole_a soul_n and_o sorrow_n do_v fill_v the_o heart_n at_o such_o a_o time_n the_o memory_n of_o bypass_a joy_n be_v great_o darken_v and_o the_o sense_n of_o present_a grief_n inflame_v the_o whole_a man_n for_o as_o it_o fall_v forth_o in_o a_o man_n body_n that_o both_o sweet_a and_o sour_a liquor_n do_v affect_v the_o sense_n of_o taste_v most_o when_o they_o be_v present_o feel_v but_o when_o they_o be_v pass_v the_o memory_n of_o they_o do_v affect_v the_o imagination_n only_o and_o that_o but_o light_o in_o comparison_n with_o present_a sense_n as_o the_o sense_n of_o a_o fiery_a coal_n do_v otherways_o affect_v we_o when_o it_o touch_v our_o flesh_n than_o the_o memory_n of_o the_o pain_n we_o have_v feel_v do_v move_v we_o when_o the_o pain_n be_v past_a so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o passion_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o joy_n spiritual_a shine_n for_o a_o while_n when_o they_o be_v late_o raise_v up_o in_o the_o soul_n but_o after_o a_o time_n they_o be_v darken_v and_o in_o some_o sort_n wear_v out_o especial_o when_o grief_n do_v arise_v than_o they_o be_v swallow_v up_o with_o sorrow_n or_o be_v well_o near_o forget_v or_o light_o esteem_v and_o reject_v my_o soul_n refuse_v comfort_n say_v the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o 2._o such_o be_v david_n condition_n ps._n 116._o 11._o when_o he_o say_v in_o his_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n at_o which_o time_n whatsoever_o joy_n he_o have_v feel_v in_o believe_v the_o promise_n make_v to_o he_o by_o samuel_n or_o other_o prophet_n he_o count_v all_o to_o be_v but_o deceive_v of_o he_o and_o delusion_n this_o mistake_n be_v strengthen_v ordinary_o by_o satan_n tentation_n and_o wicked_a suggestion_n watch_v upon_o all_o occasion_n to_o traduce_v and_o slander_v all_o god_n word_n and_o operation_n the_o complaint_n of_o jeremie_n savour_v of_o this_o malicious_a suggestion_n which_o the_o prophet_n lay_v out_o before_o god_n to_o be_v rid_v of_o it_o jer._n 20._o 7._o thou_o have_v deceive_v i_o and_o i_o be_v deceive_v yea_o ofttimes_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o our_o old_a man_n and_o corrupt_a inclination_n take_v part_n with_o satan_n and_o when_o occasion_n do_v offer_v scorn_v all_o the_o spiritual_a affection_n of_o the_o new_a man_n as_o ishmael_n mock_v isaac_n devotion_n 2._o this_o evil_a except_o it_o be_v speedy_o and_o solid_o cure_v not_o only_o cast_v the_o convert_n in_o a_o miserable_a condition_n but_o also_o call_v in_o question_n his_o state_n whether_o at_o all_o he_o be_v regenerate_v reconcile_a and_o in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n for_o if_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n grant_v to_o the_o supplicant_n pray_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o confirmation_n of_o his_o faith_n grant_v to_o the_o mourner_n for_o sin_n that_o he_o may_v be_v comfort_v shall_v be_v esteem_v as_o the_o effect_n of_o speculation_n only_o than_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o earnest-penny_n and_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v lose_v the_o confirmation_n of_o faith_n by_o that_o consolation_n be_v enervat_fw-la and_o weaken_v thanksgiving_n former_o offer_v for_o the_o comfort_n sometime_o feel_v be_v recall_v and_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n speak_v according_a to_o the_o word_n in_o oft-repeated_n experience_n be_v lay_v aside_o and_o so_o the_o afflict_a soul_n shall_v seem_v to_o himself_o in_o worse_a condition_n than_o when_o he_o be_v lie_v in_o his_o sin_n because_o he_o shall_v seem_v to_o himself_o to_o have_v lose_v his_o labour_n from_o the_o time_n that_o he_o renounce_v his_o sin_n wherefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o this_o sickness_n be_v speedy_o cure_v lest_o it_o prevail_v 3._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o afflict_a lie_v aside_o the_o dispute_n for_o a_o time_n whether_o his_o joy_n and_o spiritual_a experience_n of_o the_o lord_n work_v in_o he_o have_v be_v real_a as_o they_o sometime_o seem_v and_o let_v he_o turn_v his_o eye_n upon_o his_o present_a miserable_a confuse_a condition_n let_v he_o take_v a_o new_a view_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n let_v he_o observe_v satan_n malice_n power_n and_o wile_n to_o weaken_v faith_n and_o what_o need_v now_o he_o stand_v in_o of_o christ_n mediator_n redeemer_n surety_n and_o physician_n by_o office_n after_o a_o new_a discovery_n of_o his_o sinfulness_n and_o let_v he_o look_v upon_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n to_o every_o hungry_a and_o thirsty_a ●oul_n fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n and_o let_v he_o say_v to_o god_n lord_n there_o be_v never_o a_o time_n wherein_o i_o have_v more_o need_n of_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n and_o salvation_n behold_v i_o fly_v unto_o thou_o i_o welcome_a and_o embrace_v christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o hearty_o do_v consent_n unto_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n through_o he_o and_o do_v accept_v embrace_v and_o rely_v upon_o remission_n of_o sin_n through_o he_o and_o the_o imputation_n of_o his_o satisfactory_a righteousness_n make_v over_o to_o such_o as_o fly_v unto_o he_o or_o else_o i_o shall_v perish_v utter_o and_o do_v give_v up_o myself_o to_o thou_o that_o thou_o may_v write_v thy_o law_n more_o powerful_o on_o my_o heart_n by_o this_o mean_v the_o confidence_n of_o the_o afflicted_n interest_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v more_o fix_v and_o make_v sure_a to_o he_o and_o satan_n disappoint_v of_o his_o design_n to_o cast_v the_o afflict_a by_o his_o tentation_n in_o mis-belief_n and_o separation_n from_o christ._n 4._o thus_o when_o he_o have_v renew_v the_o grip_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n let_v he_o now_o enter_v the_o list_n and_o dispute_v the_o solidity_n of_o his_o former_a feel_a experience_n by_o discuss_v the_o objection_n which_o do_v weaken_v his_o estimation_n of_o the_o former_a feel_v joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n one_o objection_n against_o they_o be_v because_o they_o be_v of_o short_a endurance_n and_o therefore_o seem_v not_o solid_a the_o answer_n may_v be_v this_o the_o short_a stay_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v no_o proof_n against_o it_o as_o not_o true_a joy_n for_o it_o be_v sufficient_a earnest_n of_o the_o promise_a salvation_n if_o when_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o the_o gospel_n speak_v peace_n to_o the_o man_n flee_v to_o christ_n he_o find_v the_o word_n believe_v to_o be_v confirm_v to_o the_o believer_n by_o peace_n and_o joy_n albeit_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o remain_v but_o a_o short_a while_n after_o you_o believe_v say_v the_o apostle_n you_o be_v
seal_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o promise_n ephes._n 1._o 11._o as_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o wholesome_a water_n give_v to_o a_o feaver-sick_a person_n be_v not_o a_o wholesome_a drink_n because_o the_o cool_a refreshment_n by_o it_o endure_v but_o a_o short_a while_n so_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o prove_v that_o consolation_n and_o joy_n give_v to_o a_o sorrowful_a sinner_n seek_v favour_n through_o christ_n be_v not_o solid_a and_o true_a joy_n because_o it_o stay_v but_o a_o short_a while_n it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o it_o have_v stay_v so_o long_o as_o be_v needful_a for_o after_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n be_v believe_v the_o joy_n be_v send_v to_o ease_v the_o afflict_a soul_n present_a grief_n and_o to_o give_v he_o earnest_n that_o full_a and_o last_a joy_n shall_v be_v give_v in_o due_a time_n unto_o he_o when_o the_o messenger_n have_v do_v his_o commission_n let_v he_o return_v to_o his_o master_n as_o the_o sheet_n let_v down_o in_o the_o vision_n from_o heaven_n to_o peter_n after_o it_o have_v serve_v for_o peter_n instruction_n it_o be_v take_v up_o to_o heaven_n again_o act._n 10._o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n know_v by_o experience_n that_o her_o spiritual_a joy_n will_v not_o last_v long_o and_o therefore_o charge_v the_o daughter_n of_o jerusalem_n that_o they_o waken_v not_o she_o belove_v till_o he_o please_v 5._o another_o objection_n be_v this_o if_o my_o joy_n have_v be_v solid_a say_v the_o afflict_a it_o shall_v have_v bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o it_o have_v do_v but_o joy_n spiritual_a as_o i_o then_o call_v it_o do_v degenerate_a into_o a_o carnal_a security_n and_o i_o be_v not_o the_o more_o holy_a by_o it_o to_o which_o objection_n the_o answer_n may_v be_v this_o the_o blame_n of_o this_o be_v not_o to_o be_v lay_v on_o spiritual_a joy_n but_o upon_o the_o abuse_n of_o this_o mercy_n by_o ingratitude_n for_o this_o gracious_a blink_n of_o feel_a favour_n negligence_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o entertain_v this_o sense_n by_o sleepiness_n of_o conscience_n and_o other_o sin_n and_o namely_o the_o lay_v too_o much_o weight_n upon_o this_o sense_n and_o not_o fix_v the_o heart_n by_o so_o much_o more_o upon_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n when_o feel_v consolation_n may_v be_v withdraw_v be_v a_o just_a cause_n for_o spiritual_a joy_n be_v not_o give_v to_o any_o to_o build_v upon_o its_o continuance_n but_o to_o make_v the_o convert_n hold_v the_o confirm_a word_n of_o promise_n so_o much_o the_o fast_o when_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n comfortable_a feeling_n be_v withdraw_v the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n after_o a_o feast_n of_o this_o kind_n fall_v a_o sleep_n and_o give_v slight_a entertain_v to_o the_o bridegroom_n when_o call_v upon_o by_o his_o word_n for_o which_o she_o be_v chastise_v by_o his_o withdraw_n of_o his_o comfortable_a presence_n cant._n 5._o 1_o 2_o 3._o etc._n etc._n but_o let_v we_o put_v the_o case_n that_o the_o feel_v joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o abuse_v yet_o be_v it_o not_o unusual_a for_o god_n to_o withdraw_v consolation_n and_o to_o send_v trouble_n and_o anguish_n on_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o dear_a child_n to_o try_v his_o faith_n and_o train_n he_o on_o to_o hold_v the_o word_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o hard_a condition_n he_o can_v be_v into_o as_o he_o do_v exercise_n job_n and_o jeremie_n the_o prophet_n jer._n 20._o and_o the_o psalmist_n ps._n 77._o in_o which_o condition_n to_o suspect_v that_o the_o consolation_n and_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n speak_v to_o the_o heart_n by_o his_o word_n be_v not_o his_o gracious_a operation_n or_o be_v a_o delusion_n can_v but_o exceed_o grieve_v the_o lord_n and_o give_v he_o cause_n to_o chastise_v this_o suspicion_n with_o desertion_n 6._o but_o how_o may_v i_o know_v say_v the_o afflict_a that_o my_o joy_n be_v solid_a and_o be_v indeed_o the_o gracious_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n for_o answer_v 1._o if_o this_o joy_n be_v give_v to_o he_o when_o or_o after_o he_o be_v lament_v his_o sin_n and_o fear_v wrath_n deserve_v and_o fly_v unto_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n he_o have_v reason_n to_o reckon_v that_o joy_n to_o be_v such_o as_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v promise_n and_o approve_v 2._o if_o during_o the_o time_n of_o his_o sweet_a feel_n of_o peace_n and_o joy_n through_o christ_n he_o find_v his_o faith_n in_o god_n and_o love_n to_o christ_n confirm_v and_o strengthen_v if_o the_o word_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v in_o more_o estimation_n with_o he_o if_o his_o heart_n be_v enlarge_v to_o bless_v praise_n and_o thank_v god_n for_o manifest_v himself_o in_o christ_n reconcile_v if_o the_o purpose_n of_o follow_v after_o holiness_n be_v renew_v in_o he_o he_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o suspect_v his_o joy_n and_o comfort_n 3._o if_o after_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o sweet_a feeling_n he_o be_v go_v on_o in_o the_o study_n of_o holiness_n believe_v in_o christ_n how_o heavy_a in_o heart_n soever_o he_o may_v be_v by_o affliction_n and_o tentation_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v his_o sometime_o feel_a joy_n of_o the_o lord_n spirit_n be_v solid_a and_o his_o present_a suspicion_n thereof_o to_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o his_o infirmity_n and_o of_o a_o tentation_n from_o satan_n this_o be_v the_o way_n how_o the_o psalmist_n wrestle_v out_o of_o his_o sad_a condition_n ps._n 77._o chap._n fourteen_o of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v that_o his_o zeal_n for_o god_n and_o against_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o have_v be_v fleshly_a severity_n and_o imprudent_a temerity_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o they_o who_o love_n god_n sincere_o and_o can_v endure_v the_o out-breaking_n of_o the_o wicked_a do_v sometime_o transgress_v the_o bound_n of_o moderate_a zeal_n and_o be_v overtake_v in_o some_o miscarriage_n for_o which_o be_v rebuke_v by_o their_o friend_n or_o by_o they_o in_o power_n censure_v or_o civil_o chastise_v do_v in_o stead_n of_o moderate_v their_o zeal_n in_o time_n come_v grow_v more_o slack_a and_o remiss_a in_o their_o zeal_n suspect_v themselves_o incline_v to_o unreasonable_a severity_n and_o rashness_n and_o ready_a to_o be_v esteem_v hater_n of_o man_n person_n by_o those_o among_o who_o they_o live_v as_o in_o some_o bygone_a experience_n they_o have_v already_o feel_v and_o upon_o this_o occasion_n the_o tentation_n of_o satan_n fall_v on_o tend_v to_o extinguish_v the_o fervency_n of_o true_a zeal_n require_v in_o all_o true_a convert_n and_o here_o there_o be_v danger_n lest_o true_a zeal_n grow_v cold_a and_o the_o convert_v become_v lukewarm_a both_o in_o curb_v sin_n in_o other_o under_o his_o charge_n and_o in_o pursue_v duty_n in_o his_o own_o person_n in_o which_o sickness_n he_o may_v be_v the_o better_o please_v with_o himself_o by_o so_o much_o as_o his_o friend_n and_o other_o do_v commend_v he_o for_o his_o moderation_n and_o prudence_n as_o they_o shall_v call_v it_o 2._o as_o to_o the_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o that_o may_v befall_v true_a zeal_n which_o be_v common_a to_o other_o virtue_n of_o which_o there_o be_v none_o so_o perfect_a but_o some_o in-lake_n or_o excess_n may_v be_v observe_v in_o they_o and_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v without_o reason_n to_o go_v back_o from_o pursue_v duty_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o other_o virtue_n because_o imperfection_n therein_o be_v remarkable_a from_o time_n to_o time_n so_o be_v it_o without_o reason_n to_o grow_v lukewarm_a in_o zeal_n which_o may_v render_v a_o man_n loathsome_a unto_o christ_n rev._n 2._o 3._o wherefore_o let_v the_o convert_v take_v heed_n what_o the_o lord_n word_n do_v require_v of_o he_o in_o his_o call_n and_o labour_n to_o discharge_v his_o duty_n towards_o other_o so_o as_o he_o may_v be_v find_v both_o zealous_a and_o prudent_a that_o in_o the_o expression_n of_o his_o zeal_n against_o sin_n meekness_n and_o love_n to_o the_o offender_n may_v be_v manifest_v 2._o to_o this_o intent_n let_v the_o convert_v careful_o take_v heed_n to_o entertain_v these_o three_o property_n of_o commendable_a zeal_n which_o be_v 1._o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 2._o humility_n of_o heart_n 3._o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n for_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n will_v not_o suffer_v the_o convert_n to_o depart_v from_o his_o commandment_n humility_n of_o heart_n will_v make_v the_o man_n modest_a in_o his_o expression_n and_o the_o love_n of_o his_o neighbour_n will_v make_v he_o mix_v meekness_n and_o compassion_n towards_o sinner_n with_o his_o zeal_n against_o offence_n this_o be_v the_o right_a season_n of_o zeal_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o zeal_n of_o god_n according_a to_o knowledge_n chap._n xv._n of_o the_o convert_n suspect_v his_o aim_v at_o circumspect_a
this_o evil_a these_o five_o thing_n must_v be_v distinguish_v by_o the_o afflict_a convert_n 1._o the_o labour_n of_o the_o lip_n or_o formality_n in_o prayer_n or_o devotion_n 2._o prayer_n in_o faith_n 3._o prayer_n with_o felt_n and_o observe_v affection_n in_o prayer_n 4._o prayer_n approven_v of_o god_n 5._o prayer_n with_o the_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o god_n approbation_n as_o to_o the_o first_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o lip_n or_o formality_n in_o prayer_n which_o the_o scripture_n do_v condemn_v be_v when_o a_o man_n pray_v with_o his_o mouth_n for_o thing_n necessary_a or_o lawful_a and_o be_v about_o the_o external_a work_n of_o devotion_n wherein_o he_o please_v himself_o and_o do_v rest_n upon_o the_o work_n wrought_v without_o affection_n of_o heart_n or_o faith_n as_o we_o see_v is._n 58._o 1_o 2_o 3._o and_o this_o be_v not_o the_o case_n of_o the_o convert_n of_o who_o we_o be_v speak_v for_o because_o he_o esteem_v his_o devotion_n to_o be_v but_o a_o formality_n he_o be_v displease_v with_o himself_o and_o be_v unquiet_a as_o to_o the_o second_o prayer_n in_o faith_n be_v when_o the_o convert_n miss_v freedom_n of_o speech_n and_o answerable_a affection_n to_o his_o speech_n in_o his_o devotion_n in_o prayer_n praise_n thanksgiving_n intercession_n etc._n etc._n yet_o because_o the_o duty_n be_v command_v he_o do_v offer_v it_o up_o to_o god_n with_o hope_n of_o acceptation_n and_o yet_o be_v displease_v with_o himself_o and_o humble_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o coldrife_n affection_n which_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o convert_n of_o who_o we_o be_v speak_v but_o the_o not_o esteem_v this_o his_o devotion_n through_o christ_n acceptable_a be_v his_o fault_n as_o to_o the_o three_o prayer_n or_o devotion_n with_o feel_a affection_n in_o discharge_v it_o be_v when_o the_o convert_n pour_v out_o his_o heart_n unto_o god_n with_o freedom_n of_o speech_n and_o yet_o can_v be_v quiet_a because_o he_o do_v not_o feel_v any_o sign_n of_o god_n approbation_n of_o he_o and_o hear_n of_o his_o supplication_n and_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o psalmist_n in_o sundry_a psalm_n but_o this_o be_v not_o the_o case_n of_o the_o convert_n we_o be_v speak_v of_o for_o he_o complain_v of_o the_o hardness_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o want_n of_o affection_n and_o do_v weaken_v his_o own_o faith_n which_o be_v his_o fault_n as_o to_o the_o four_o prayer_n approven_v of_o god_n be_v when_o the_o convert_n do_v offer_v his_o devotion_n to_o god_n in_o sincerity_n and_o pray_v for_o what_o be_v promise_v in_o hope_n to_o be_v hear_v and_o answer_v in_o due_a time_n and_o this_o prayer_n or_o devotion_n be_v approven_v by_o god_n in_o scripture_n whether_o the_o convert_v be_v satisfy_v with_o the_o measure_n of_o answerable_a affection_n to_o his_o word_n or_o not_o as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1_o joh._n 5._o 14_o 15._o and_o this_o shall_v be_v observe_v by_o the_o convert_n of_o who_o we_o be_v speak_v for_o rectify_v his_o judgement_n and_o quiet_v of_o he_o albeit_o he_o neither_o find_v his_o affection_n move_v as_o he_o will_v nor_o find_v consolation_n from_o god_n as_o he_o will_v as_o to_o the_o five_o prayer_n or_o devotion_n with_o the_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o god_n approbation_n be_v when_o god_n not_o only_o approve_v the_o convert_n prayer_n and_o devotion_n by_o his_o word_n in_o the_o scripture_n but_o also_o by_o his_o spirit_n do_v sensible_o comfort_v the_o supplicant_n and_o send_v he_o to_o his_o call_n with_o joy_n so_o do_v he_o deal_v ofttimes_o with_o the_o psalmist_n david_n and_o so_o do_v he_o comfort_n samuel_n mother_n in_o and_o after_o her_o prayer_n 1_o sam._n 1._o this_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o the_o convert_v we_o speak_v of_o will_v be_v at_o and_o which_o will_v satisfy_v he_o if_o he_o can_v come_v to_o it_o 4._o this_o condition_n be_v the_o sweet_a to_o the_o supplicant_n and_o much_o to_o be_v desire_v with_o submission_n to_o god_n dispensation_n whatsoever_o it_o be_v but_o it_o be_v not_o the_o only_a condition_n acceptable_a to_o god_n as_o we_o see_v 1_o joh._n 5._o 14._o 15._o this_o be_v the_o confidence_n which_o we_o have_v in_o god_n that_o if_o we_o ask_v any_o thing_n according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o hear_v we_o and_o if_o we_o know_v that_o he_o hear_v we_o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o know_v we_o have_v the_o petition_n that_o we_o desire_v of_o he_o and_o that_o the_o mater_fw-la be_v so_o may_v be_v perceive_v in_o david_n condition_n at_o sundry_a time_n for_o ps._n 119_o seven_o or_o eight_o time_n he_o pray_v quicken_v thou_o i_o according_a to_o thy_o word_n he_o find_v in_o himself_o much_o deadness_n of_o spirit_n yet_o he_o continue_v meek_o pray_v to_o be_v quicken_v in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n 5._o wherefore_o so_o oft_o as_o the_o convert_n be_v displease_v for_o any_o defect_n he_o find_v in_o his_o devotion_n let_v he_o 1._o humble_a himself_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o imperfection_n and_o betake_v himself_o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o the_o intercession_n of_o christ_n and_o lie_v hold_v more_o firm_o upon_o the_o satisfaction_n make_v by_o the_o mediator_n and_o draw_v by_o faith_n grace_n for_o grace_n out_o of_o his_o fullness_n and_o let_v he_o in_o faith_n and_o sincerity_n worship_n god_n and_o live_v holy_o in_o his_o conversation_n and_o not_o be_v afraid_a that_o his_o devotion_n shall_v be_v esteem_v of_o god_n to_o be_v but_o lip-labour_n 2._o to_o this_o end_n let_v he_o right_o construe_v god_n dispensation_n and_o consider_v that_o his_o gift_n be_v wise_o give_v forth_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o people_n for_o sometime_o he_o give_v to_o will_n that_o which_o be_v good_a without_o ability_n for_o the_o time_n to_o effectuate_v what_o the_o convert_n will_v he_o may_v give_v a_o willing_a heart_n to_o pray_v affectionate_o and_o not_o for_o the_o time_n grant_v ability_n to_o pray_v as_o his_o child_n will_v rom._n 7._o 18._o sometime_o he_o may_v give_v no_o more_o but_o to_o sigh_v and_o groan_n without_o ability_n to_o express_v the_o confuse_a desire_n of_o his_o heart_n rom._n 8._o 26_o 27._o sometime_o he_o will_v suggest_v word_n and_o make_v the_o supplicant_n in_o sincerity_n of_o faith_n present_a the_o word_n put_v in_o his_o mouth_n hos_n 14._o 1._o 2._o sometime_o he_o will_v grant_v to_o the_o supplicant_n to_o bear_v out_o much_o disputation_n in_o his_o prayer_n without_o sensible_a consolation_n ps._n 77._o sometime_o he_o will_v grant_v the_o supplicant_n a_o lose_a heart_n in_o prayer_n and_o abundance_n of_o tear_n and_o yet_o seem_v for_o a_o time_n not_o to_o regard_v they_o ps._n 6._o sometime_o he_o will_v grant_v confidence_n and_o consolation_n to_o the_o supplicant_n as_o ps._n 6._o and_o many_o other_o psalm_n and_o certain_o the_o variety_n of_o divine_a dispensation_n to_o his_o child_n can_v be_v tell_v in_o all_o which_o he_o require_v of_o his_o supplicant_n meek_a submission_n and_o perseverance_n in_o prayer_n with_o confidence_n to_o find_v a_o good_a answer_n at_o last_o for_o if_o his_o child_n do_v not_o accept_v well_o of_o the_o measure_n which_o be_v bestow_v on_o he_o he_o may_v ready_o find_v the_o measure_n he_o complain_v of_o more_o scant_o and_o confusion_n of_o mind_n without_o word_n to_o fall_v upon_o he_o and_o if_o yet_o he_o shall_v not_o wise_o submit_v himself_o to_o god_n exercise_v of_o he_o he_o may_v fall_v in_o hard_a trouble_n and_o question_v of_o his_o state_n in_o grace_n and_o be_v tempt_v to_o restrain_v prayer_n till_o he_o cease_v complain_v and_o fly_v for_o refuge_n to_o christ_n the_o mediator_n and_o come_v to_o a_o better_a estimation_n of_o the_o measure_n of_o presence_n with_o he_o when_o he_o begin_v to_o complain_v chap._n xviii_o concern_v the_o convert_n look_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o faith_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n sincere_a faith_n in_o christ_n be_v the_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n give_v to_o the_o elect_a only_o which_o grace_n the_o more_o we_o do_v exercise_v it_o the_o more_o we_o please_v god_n for_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v he_o heb._n 11._o 6._o this_o save_a grace_n the_o lord_n take_v pleasure_n to_o put_v it_o unto_o trial_n and_o exercise_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v train_v it_o on_o and_o foster_v and_o increase_v it_o and_o bring_v it_o forth_o to_o light_n both_o for_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o for_o the_o commendation_n of_o his_o child_n as_o be_v tell_v we_o 1._o pet._n 1._o 7._o in_o which_o exercise_n the_o true_a convert_n be_v ofttimes_o much_o mistake_v and_o do_v misconstrue_v his_o condition_n the_o reason_n be_v 1_o the_o faith_n of_o young_a convert_n be_v very_o imperfect_a knowledge_n be_v many_o
way_n darken_v and_o the_o application_n of_o promise_n be_v very_o weak_a 2._o when_o satan_n by_o his_o tentation_n obscure_v the_o truth_n which_o shall_v strengthen_v faith_n the_o convert_n find_v himself_o in_o the_o mist_n may_v be_v at_o a_o stand_n till_o his_o sight_n be_v clear_v up_o and_o he_o free_v from_o the_o tentation_n 3._o the_o sincere_a convert_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o his_o own_o imperfection_n and_o consideration_n of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v wary_a and_o suspicious_a that_o he_o may_v be_v easy_o deceive_v and_o take_v historical_a or_o temporal_a faith_n for_o true_a save_a faith_n and_o so_o do_v ready_o lie_v hold_v on_o satan_n suggestion_n against_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o ●aith_n 4._o in_o the_o conflict_n which_o his_o faith_n ofttimes_o have_v with_o mis-belief_n strengthen_v by_o satan_n tentation_n he_o find_v himself_o now_o and_o then_o foil_v by_o yield_v unto_o the_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n as_o david_n experience_n teach_v may_v befall_v both_o the_o elder_a and_o young_a soldier_n ps._n ●●6_n 11._o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n meaning_n samuel_n and_o other_o prophet_n who_o promise_v to_o david_n in_o god_n name_n he_o shall_v be_v king_n 5._o in_o the_o fight_n of_o faith_n some_o infirmity_n be_v always_o manifest_v and_o the_o convert_n be_v force_v to_o acknowledge_v that_o his_o faith_n be_v not_o so_o strong_a as_o he_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v before_o the_o fight_n whereupon_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o suspect_v his_o fight_n in_o faith_n to_o be_v a_o faint_a and_o decay_v in_o faith_n 6._o sometime_o the_o convert_n by_o give_v way_n to_o sin_n do_v grieve_v the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o provoke_v he_o to_o withdraw_v his_o comfortable_a testimony_n which_o he_o give_v in_o former_a time_n to_o the_o convert_n which_o bring_v he_o into_o suspicion_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n which_o seem_v to_o himself_o sound_a and_o unfeigned_a before_o 2._o this_o case_n be_v both_o troublesome_a to_o the_o convert_n and_o dangerous_a for_o till_o it_o be_v cure_v it_o grow_v like_o a_o rage_a fever_n and_o set_v upon_o the_o vital_a power_n of_o justify_v faith_n and_o at_o least_o hinder_v the_o exercise_n thereof_o not_o a_o little_a for_o remedy_v whereof_o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n put_v difference_n between_o a_o infirm_a faith_n and_o feel_v infirmity_n in_o faith_n fight_v for_o albeit_o the_o convert_n in_o the_o conflict_n of_o faith_n against_o tentation_n to_o mis-belief_n do_v feel_v infirmity_n yet_o be_v not_o his_o faith_n to_o be_v account_v infirm_a simple_o because_o whatsoever_o infirmity_n he_o feel_v in_o his_o fight_n yet_o his_o fight_v against_o tentation_n prove_v his_o faith_n to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o strong_a as_o he_o resist_v mis-belief_n and_o cleave_v close_a to_o christ._n 2._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o the_o lord_n suffer_v his_o child_n to_o be_v exercise_v with_o tentation_n of_o set_a purpose_n to_o humble_v he_o and_o empty_v he_o of_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o wisdom_n righteousness_n and_o strength_n that_o he_o may_v gather_v strength_n in_o his_o fight_n by_o scripture_n hold_v up_o to_o god_n in_o prayer_n and_o so_o wax_v valiant_a in_o fight_n as_o believer_n have_v be_v help_v before_o heb._n 11._o 34._o 3._o let_v the_o convert_n put_v difference_n between_o faith_n and_o a_o settle_a persuasion_n for_o settle_v and_o full_a persuasion_n exclude_v all_o dubitation_n for_o the_o time_n but_o save_v faith_n may_v may_v be_v where_o doubt_v be_v and_o unbelief_n be_v feel_v as_o the_o father_n of_o the_o possess_a child_n in_o his_o prayer_n to_o christ_n make_v manifest_a lord_n i_o believe_v say_v he_o help_v my_o unbelief_n 4._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o dubitation_n suggest_v and_o faith_n strive_v to_o overcome_v dubitation_n for_o dubitation_n bewray_v infirmity_n of_o faith_n but_o strive_v against_o dubitation_n do_v evidence_n life_n and_o vigour_n in_o faith_n to_o be_v present_a and_o be_v acceptable_a service_n to_o god_n 5._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o doubt_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o weak_a gripe_a of_o it_o for_o he_o that_o doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n be_v jam._n 1._o 6_o 7._o like_o a_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o can_v expect_v nothing_o but_o he_o that_o lay_v hold_v on_o the_o promise_n with_o a_o tremble_a hand_n and_o strive_v to_o hold_v it_o fast_o against_o doubt_v may_v expect_v to_o obtain_v 6._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o his_o suspicion_n of_o the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o the_o right_n judge_v of_o it_o for_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n of_o his_o fight_a and_o fear_n of_o fail_v he_o go_v on_o in_o exercise_n of_o faith_n fear_v to_o succumb_v yet_o resolute_a not_o to_o depart_v from_o christ_n in_o the_o love_n and_o estimation_n of_o who_o grace_n he_o go_v on_o and_o grow_v long_v for_o the_o victory_n and_o for_o a_o near_o feel_v fellowship_n with_o he_o which_o if_o he_o do_v observe_v and_o consider_v his_o judgement_n shall_v be_v rectify_v last_o of_o all_o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o a_o hasty_a apprehension_n of_o the_o fail_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o a_o fix_a opinion_n that_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o fancy_n for_o a_o strong_a soldier_n may_v be_v surprise_v on_o a_o sudden_a as_o david_n ps._n 31._o 22._o and_o ps._n 116._o 11._o and_o jonah_n 2._o 3_o 4._o do_v furnish_v instance_n who_o short_o after_o do_v gather_v their_o courage_n and_o enter_v the_o list_n afresh_o and_o become_v victorious_a against_o their_o tentation_n unto_o misbelief_n therefore_o let_v the_o wrestler_n be_v of_o good_a courage_n for_o nothing_o can_v prove_v the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o faith_n more_o than_o his_o wrestle_n against_o distrust_n and_o his_o look_v towards_o christ_n through_o all_o the_o cloud_n which_o hinder_v his_o sight_n and_o his_o sorrow_n for_o his_o unbelief_n for_o his_o weak_a hold_v grip_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o for_o his_o inability_n to_o glorify_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o rich_a grace_n of_o god_n offer_v in_o christ_n especial_o when_o he_o consider_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n commend_v the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n with_o variety_n of_o temptation_n for_o a_o mater_fw-la of_o great_a joy_n jam._n 1._o 2_o 3._o chap._n xix_o concern_v the_o convert_n straighten_v his_o charity_n towards_o other_o more_o than_o he_o do_v at_o the_o first_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n conceive_v his_o former_a large_a charity_n be_v unwarrantable_a folly_n all_o convert_n must_v agree_v to_o christ_n saying_n joh._n 13._o 35._o by_o this_o shall_v all_o man_n know_v that_o you_o be_v my_o disciple_n if_o you_o have_v love_v one_o to_o another_o no_o man_n doubt_v of_o this_o his_o duty_n in_o general_a but_o sundry_a make_v question_n about_o the_o exercise_n and_o expression_n of_o their_o charity_n for_o some_o conceive_v that_o their_o former_a charity_n in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o judge_v of_o other_o and_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o affection_n to_o other_o and_o in_o the_o mater_fw-la of_o actual_a expression_n of_o their_o charity_n have_v be_v ill_o bestow_v towards_o unworthy_a and_o illdeserving_a person_n and_o this_o they_o reckon_v to_o have_v be_v folly_n and_o therefore_o do_v resolve_v to_o dispose_v of_o their_o judgement_n affection_n and_o good_a deed_n more_o prudent_o than_o they_o have_v do_v that_o their_o charitable_a estimation_n affection_n and_o expression_n actual_a shall_v be_v draw_v forth_o towards_o the_o worthy_a and_o well-deserving_a disciple_n of_o their_o acquaintance_n thus_o they_o condemn_v for_o folly_n what_o be_v right_o indeed_o the_o main_a pretence_n of_o reason_n for_o their_o resolution_n be_v two_o the_o first_o be_v because_o they_o perceive_v many_o who_o they_o judge_v wise_a and_o godly_a to_o exclude_v from_o the_o number_n of_o believer_n or_o disciple_n of_o christ_n all_o in_o who_o the_o evident_a sign_n of_o regeneration_n do_v not_o appear_v and_o so_o do_v think_v they_o may_v draw_v the_o circle_n of_o their_o charity_n in_o strait_a and_o narrow_a bound_n and_o may_v shun_v to_o keep_v church-fellowship_n in_o the_o pure_a ordinance_n of_o christ_n with_o any_o save_v approven_v visible_a saint_n the_o other_o pretence_n be_v because_o they_o have_v find_v themselves_o ofttimes_o deceive_v by_o those_o of_o who_o sometime_o they_o have_v entertain_v good_a thought_n and_o no_o small_a estimation_n 1._o as_o for_o the_o first_o pretence_n it_o belong_v to_o the_o question_n of_o the_o constitution_n of_o visible_a church_n whether_o it_o be_v found_v upon_o visible_a sanctity_n or_o evidence_n of_o regeneration_n or_o upon_o visible_a enter_v in_o the_o external_a covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o profession_n of_o subjection_n to_o the_o
if_o he_o find_v this_o sickness_n from_o day_n to_o day_n cleave_v fast_o unto_o he_o he_o fall_v in_o discouragement_n and_o in_o question_n with_o himself_o whether_o it_o be_v better_a to_o break_v off_o at_o least_o in_o secret_a such_o ragged_a worship_n or_o to_o go_v on_o to_o offer_v the_o sacrifice_n of_o a_o fool_n unto_o god_n for_o so_o he_o do_v esteem_n of_o his_o devotion_n thus_o leaven_v with_o vaige_v and_o vanity_n of_o his_o mind_n in_o this_o case_n the_o convert_n do_v not_o only_a misregard_n what_o be_v right_a in_o his_o devotion_n or_o divine_a service_n but_o also_o by_o fret_v discouragement_n and_o mis-behaviour_n of_o his_o spirit_n be_v ready_a to_o augment_v his_o sinful_a condition_n and_o to_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v wroth_a with_o he_o indeed_o 2._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o convert_v judge_n wise_o of_o his_o condition_n that_o he_o charge_v not_o himself_o with_o guiltiness_n more_o than_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v and_o that_o he_o may_v take_v a_o right_a course_n to_o be_v free_a of_o guiltiness_n and_o heal_v of_o this_o sickness_n where_o guiltiness_n be_v find_v and_o to_o this_o end_n 1._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o vaige_v of_o mind_n with_o interruption_n of_o worship_n and_o the_o natural_a course_n of_o his_o fantasy_n and_o understanding_n which_o may_v consist_v with_o the_o continue_a act_n of_o worship_n for_o as_o the_o eye_n of_o a_o man_n run_v to_o some_o place_n can_v choose_v but_o see_v every_o visible_a thing_n in_o his_o way_n and_o yet_o run_v on_o without_o stay_v till_o he_o come_v to_o the_o place_n he_o aim_v at_o so_o the_o fantasy_n and_o understanding_n can_v choose_v but_o take_v up_o and_o discern_v whatsoever_o be_v offer_v unto_o they_o in_o time_n of_o prayer_n from_o the_o outward_a sense_n or_o from_o the_o memory_n and_o yet_o make_v no_o interruption_n of_o prayer_n such_o be_v the_o natural_a agility_n of_o a_o man_n mind_n and_o therefore_o this_o natural_a course_n of_o imagination_n or_o fantasy_n must_v not_o be_v charge_v as_o guiltiness_n upon_o the_o worshipper_n who_o follow_v on_o the_o work_n of_o worship_n notwithstanding_o 2._o sundry_a suggestion_n may_v be_v cast_v into_o the_o convert_n mind_n by_o satan_n to_o mar_v his_o worship_n which_o must_v be_v charge_v on_o satan_n chief_o and_o the_o worshipper_n not_o always_o make_v guilty_a thereby_o 3._o when_o the_o worship_n indeed_o be_v interrupt_v and_o the_o mind_n fall_v off_o from_o the_o work_n of_o devotion_n or_o divine_a service_n and_o enter_v upon_o discourse_n about_o vain_a vile_a or_o impertinent_a matter_n let_v the_o convert_v not_o only_o acknowledge_v guiltiness_n here_o but_o also_o examine_v if_o this_o his_o vaige_n of_o mind_n in_o prayer_n and_o divine_a service_n be_v not_o also_o a_o chastisement_n from_o god_n for_o his_o not_o acknowledge_v of_o god_n in_o his_o affair_n and_o and_o for_o lose_v reins_o to_o his_o mind_n to_o roave_fw-it all_fw-mi the_o day_n which_o just_o meet_v he_o at_o night_n in_o his_o devotion_n as_o a_o rod_n on_o his_o back_n for_o his_o voluntar_n vaige_v from_o god_n in_o his_o former_a walk_n 3._o these_o consideration_n be_v premise_v and_o the_o sin_n which_o have_v draw_v on_o this_o evil_n be_v discover_v and_o the_o power_n of_o indwelling-sin_n perceive_v and_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n temptation_n notice_v and_o the_o lord_n chastise_v rod_n justify_v and_o his_o own_o culpable_a infirmity_n acknowledge_v 1._o let_v he_o humble_v himself_o and_o fly_v to_o the_o rich_a grace_n of_o god_n offer_v in_o christ_n and_o lie_v strong_a hold_n on_o the_o satisfaction_n make_v by_o christ_n impute_v to_o all_o believer_n in_o he_o that_o guiltiness_n may_v be_v by_o free_a pardon_n remove_v 2._o let_v he_o pray_v for_o more_o assistance_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o all_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n and_o expect_v a_o gracious_a grant_v thereof_o in_o god_n wise_a dispensation_n of_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o the_o use_n of_o holy_a ordinance_n 3._o let_v his_o heart_n be_v in_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o the_o day_n long_o make_v he_o lift_v up_o his_o eye_n from_o time_n to_o time_n to_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o lawful_a affair_n how_o mean_a so_o ever_o 4._o let_v he_o gather_v his_o thought_n before_o every_o religious_a exercise_n by_o way_n of_o preparation_n lest_o he_o take_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o vain_a by_o rash_a and_o unreverent_a rush_v in_o upon_o divine_a service_n 5._o let_v he_o thank_v the_o lord_n for_o grant_v he_o grace_n to_o see_v his_o sinful_a vaige_n of_o mind_n and_o to_o be_v displease_v with_o it_o and_o to_o confess_v it_o 6._o let_v he_o be_v comfort_v in_o the_o lord_n who_o gather_v the_o ragged_a and_o scatter_a honest_a desire_n of_o supplicant_n and_o take_v away_o the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o service_n of_o his_o client_n as_o our_o high_a priest_n bearing_z in_o his_o appear_v for_o we_o as_o it_o be_v on_o his_o forehead_n holiness_n unto_o the_o lord_n chap._n xxii_o concern_v the_o convert_n discour_n agment_n for_o feel_a want_n of_o ability_n to_o do_v the_o duty_n command_v whereunto_o his_o renew_a will_n be_v very_o bend_v sundry_a true_a convert_n find_v a_o will_n to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a but_o not_o find_v power_n how_o to_o perform_v that_o which_o be_v good_a do_v fall_n in_o disquietness_n and_o discouragement_n when_o they_o shall_v go_v and_o seek_v to_o make_v good_a use_n of_o their_o infirmity_n and_o go_v to_o christ_n for_o remeed_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v rom._n 7._o 18._o the_o cause_n of_o this_o evil_n be_v the_o relic_n of_o corrupt_a natural_a inclination_n to_o seek_v to_o be_v justify_v by_o work_n and_o to_o have_v in_o our_o hand_n ability_n to_o do_v the_o good_a which_o we_o will_v do_v for_o albeit_o the_o convert_v be_v force_v to_o seek_v reconciliation_n with_o god_n by_o remission_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o conversion_n yet_o in_o his_o course_n towards_o heaven_n and_o salvation_n he_o desire_v to_o have_v a_o store-house_n and_o treasure_n of_o strength_n in_o himself_o to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o he_o will_v for_o it_o seem_v to_o he_o in_o his_o carnal_a wisdom_n a_o poor_a shift_n to_o be_v in_o every_o good_a action_n put_v to_o beg_v supply_n from_o christ_n by_o prayer_n and_o to_o stand_v wait_v on_o in_o a_o dependence_n on_o christ_n till_o furniture_n come_v from_o heaven_n unto_o he_o which_o furniture_n of_o strength_n because_o our_o lord_n do_v suspend_v to_o give_v till_o his_o infirm_a and_o humble_a child_n hold_v up_o his_o heart_n as_o a_o empty_a vessel_n to_o receive_v influence_n from_o he_o according_a to_o his_o wise_a pleasure_n the_o inconsider_v at_o convert_n do_v trouble_v himself_o and_o fall_v in_o a_o distemper_n 2._o this_o case_n be_v not_o altogether_o evil_a as_o the_o convert_n do_v take_v it_o but_o this_o much_o be_v right_a that_o he_o look_v upon_o the_o law_n as_o holy_a spiritual_a and_o good_a that_o he_o desire_v earnest_o to_o obey_v it_o and_o that_o he_o loathe_v himself_o for_o his_o feel_a unconformity_n unto_o it_o yet_o this_o be_v wrong_n in_o he_o that_o he_o do_v not_o humble_a himself_o but_o be_v cast_v down_o and_o discourage_v that_o he_o do_v not_o make_v christ_n his_o sanctification_n as_o well_o as_o his_o righteousness_n that_o he_o do_v not_o consider_v of_o the_o furniture_n to_o be_v bring_v unto_o he_o from_o heaven_n by_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o that_o this_o grace_n be_v near_a and_o more_o ready_a to_o serve_v his_o turn_n then_o if_o it_o be_v in_o his_o own_o hand_n 3._o therefore_o let_v he_o renounce_v more_o and_o more_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o righteousness_n with_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o let_v he_o thank_v god_n in_o christ_n in_o who_o a_o out-gate_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o all_o difficulty_n rom._n 7._o 25_o let_v he_o trust_v christ_n for_o supply_v in_o all_o service_n in_o who_o if_o a_o man_n abide_v he_o shall_v bring_v forth_o much_o fruit_n and_o without_o who_o he_o can_v do_v nothing_o joh._n 15._o 5._o for_o if_o he_o depend_v on_o christ_n in_o his_o emptiness_n and_o weakness_n he_o shall_v find_v by_o experience_n that_o when_o he_o be_v weak_a then_o be_v he_o strong_a chap._n xxiii_o concern_v the_o convert_n imprudent_a censure_n of_o himself_o for_o feel_v ingratitude_n some_o convert_v sometime_o do_v pass_v rash_a sentence_n against_o themselves_o for_o ingratitude_n namely_o when_o after_o receive_v some_o notable_a benefit_n for_o which_o they_o have_v make_v earnest_a supplication_n to_o god_n and_o for_o which_o before_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o benefit_n they_o have_v oblige_v themselves_o by_o vow_n to_o a_o
whereupon_o when_o they_o reflect_v they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o humble_v themselves_o and_o make_v right_a use_n thereof_o that_o their_o indignation_n at_o themselves_o and_o their_o fret_a be_v increase_v so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o impatiency_n be_v so_o small_a as_o common_a reason_n find_v in_o heathen_n have_v overcome_v and_o therefore_o shall_v have_v be_v more_o easy_o digest_v by_o christian_n this_o miscarriage_n use_v ofttimes_o to_o be_v past-by_a without_o any_o fruit_n further_o than_o to_o acknowledge_v their_o infirmity_n 2._o but_o the_o true_a cure_n of_o this_o evil_a be_v in_o discovery_n and_o removal_n of_o the_o cause_n thereof_o which_o be_v three_o 1._o carnal_a confidence_n of_o the_o convert_n in_o his_o own_o strength_n as_o able_a to_o overcome_v lesser_a trouble_n 2._o neglect_v of_o duty_n towards_o god_n in_o his_o rencontre_n with_o small_a provocation_n of_o passion_n for_o man_n in_o great_a trouble_n and_o weighty_a cross_n use_v to_o fly_v unto_o god_n by_o prayer_n to_o help_v they_o to_o bear_v the_o same_o but_o when_o they_o meet_v with_o lesser_a cross_n they_o oppose_v their_o own_o strength_n unto_o they_o and_o put_v not_o up_o the_o mater_fw-la to_o god_n and_o so_o their_o infirmity_n be_v manifest_v 3._o god_n wise_a correct_v his_o child_n for_o misken_v of_o he_o in_o light_a matter_n 3._o therefore_o let_v the_o convert_v afflict_v in_o this_o case_n acknowledge_v his_o fail_n and_o be_v humble_v at_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o passionate_a infirmity_n and_o bless_v god_n for_o bear_v down_o by_o his_o rod_n carnal_a self-confidence_n 2._o let_v he_o learn_v of_o david_n ps._n 141._o 3._o not_o to_o trust_v in_o his_o own_o strength_n in_o any_o thing_n but_o depend_v on_o god_n for_o set_v a_o watch_n before_o his_o mouth_n and_o keep_v the_o door_n of_o his_o lip_n and_o main_o for_o keep_v his_o heart_n from_o incline_v to_o any_o evil_a thing_n 3._o let_v he_o make_v more_o use_n both_o of_o christ_n open_a fountain_n for_o wash_v away_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n and_o of_o his_o assistance_n to_o mortify_v the_o deed_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n by_o his_o spirit_n for_o otherways_o the_o convert_n may_v look_v to_o be_v often_o foil_v in_o this_o kind_n and_o often_o to_o be_v correct_v for_o not_o watch_v over_o his_o passion_n chap._n xxv_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o case_n for_o want_v of_o such_o a_o submission_n unto_o god_n exercise_v of_o he_o as_o be_v will_v have_v some_o true_a convert_n sometime_o esteem_v themselves_o guilty_a of_o rebellion_n against_o god_n because_o they_o can_v submit_v themselves_o in_o bodily_a or_o spiritual_a chastisement_n unto_o god_n dispensation_n as_o they_o will_v the_o pretend_a reason_n of_o their_o hard_a sentence_n against_o themselves_o be_v three_o 1._o because_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o fret_v and_o murmur_v against_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o they_o 2._o they_o find_v themselves_o far_o from_o humble_v themselves_o under_o the_o mighty_a hand_n of_o god_n 3._o because_o they_o find_v in_o themselves_o still_o unquietness_n after_o they_o set_v themselves_o to_o submit_v which_o endeavour_n to_o submit_v they_o conceive_v shall_v have_v bring_v forth_o quietness_n of_o mind_n if_o it_o have_v be_v real_a and_o sincere_a submission_n indeed_o and_o these_o thought●_n when_o they_o have_v weight_n make_v way_n for_o many_o suggestion_n of_o satan_n and_o do_v draw_v on_o more_o and_o more_o unquietness_n and_o guiltiness_n withal_o for_o remedy_v whereof_o 1._o let_v it_o be_v consider_v that_o in_o this_o exercise_n a_o difference_n must_v be_v put_v between_o god_n part_n the_o flesh_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n part_n the_o new_a creature_n part_n and_o satan_n part_n as_o for_o god_n part_n by_o his_o chastisement_n and_o exercise_v of_o his_o child_n he_o bring_v to_o light_v the_o perverseness_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n in_o his_o child_n to_o humble_v he_o and_o drive_v he_o to_o christ._n the_o part_n of_o flesh_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n be_v always_o to_o strive_v against_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o new_a creature_n and_o it_o can_v be_v submissive_a unto_o god_n gal._n 5._o 7._o but_o must_v be_v mortify_v rom._n 8._o 7._o the_o part_n of_o the_o new_a creature_n be_v not_o to_o consent_v to_o the_o fret_a and_o murmur_v of_o the_o flesh_n but_o to_o oppose_v it_o to_o yield_v unto_o god_n dispensation_n and_o to_o be_v grieve_v for_o the_o power_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o therefore_o not_o the_o new_a creature_n but_o corrupt_a nature_n shall_v be_v condemn_v satan_n part_n be_v still_o to_o take_v advantage_n of_o every_o hard_a exercise_n and_o to_o suggest_v wrong_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o his_o work_n in_o the_o child_n of_o god_n second_o let_v a_o difference_n be_v make_v between_o the_o conflict_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n against_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o victory_n of_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n for_o corrupt_a nature_n may_v fight_v and_o not_o prevail_v but_o be_v keep_v from_o reign_v in_o a_o man_n how_o much_o soever_o it_o rage_n three_o let_v a_o difference_n be_v make_v between_o the_o victory_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n in_o some_o conflict_n and_o its_o victory_n in_o the_o war_n for_o corrupt_a nature_n may_v prevail_v in_o sundry_a conflict_n and_o yet_o loss_n its_o labour_n in_o the_o close_a of_o the_o war_n wherein_o grace_n be_v make_v perfect_o victorious_a through_o christ_n in_o hope_n whereof_o the_o child_n of_o god_n must_v renew_v the_o combat_n against_o nature_n and_o not_o faint_a four_o let_v a_o difference_n be_v put_v between_o submission_n of_o mind_n and_o quietness_n in_o mind_n submission_n may_v be_v sincere_a when_o pain_n of_o body_n make_v the_o convert_n to_o cry_v when_o affliction_n make_v he_o a_o man_n of_o sorrow_n and_o grief_n yea_o when_o corrupt_a nature_n do_v fret_v and_o murmur_n provide_v that_o the_o convert_v control_n and_o condemn_v his_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o suffer_v it_o not_o to_o break_v forth_o in_o word_n of_o impatiency_n but_o pray_v to_o god_n to_o help_v he_o to_o bear_v the_o burden_n and_o endure_v his_o exercise_n with_o patience_n five_o let_v a_o difference_n be_v put_v between_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o the_o trouble_n which_o do_v stir_v it_o up_o and_o the_o sorrow_n which_o the_o convert_n have_v in_o the_o observation_n of_o both_o for_o the_o sin_n be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o satan_n the_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n the_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n feel_v be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n spirit_n also_o and_o the_o sorrow_n for_o pain_n loss_n shame_n or_o any_o sort_n of_o trouble_n be_v moderate_a and_o sanctify_a when_o the_o convert_n offer_v himself_o willing_a to_o endure_v it_o so_o long_o as_o god_n shall_v be_v please_v to_o continue_v it_o last_o of_o all_o let_v it_o be_v consider_v that_o a_o wrestled-for_a submission_n pleasee_v god_n no_o less_o than_o a_o victorious_a submission_n do_v please_v the_o convert_n because_o in_o wrestle_v against_o corrupt_a nature_n the_o convert_n testifi_v his_o will_n to_o please_v god_n his_o glorify_v of_o god_n wisdom_n justice_n power_n and_o love_n how_o ever_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o he_o after_o which_o wrestle_v the_o lord_n do_v give_v submission_n victorious_a and_o quietness_n with_o it_o chap._n xxvi_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v of_o his_o condition_n because_o of_o tentation_n god_n child_n ofttimes_o be_v not_o only_o heavy_a and_o grieve_a because_o of_o tentation_n which_o the_o apostle_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 6._o presuppose_v to_o be_v ordinary_a and_o in_o some_o respect_v needful_a but_o also_o fall_v in_o a_o mistake_n of_o their_o condition_n as_o if_o it_o be_v altogether_o evil_a and_o displeasant_a unto_o god_n because_o they_o perceive_v themselves_o many_o way_n pollute_v in_o their_o conflict_n with_o they_o which_o pollution_n albeit_o they_o can_v be_v deny_v to_o be_v pollution_n and_o shall_v not_o be_v excuse_v or_o extenuat_fw-la yet_o shall_v not_o darken_v or_o obscure_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o a_o convert_n strive_v against_o tentation_n and_o lament_v his_o pollution_n contract_v by_o occasion_n of_o they_o 2._o these_o tentation_n that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_o discover_v we_o shall_v divide_v they_o in_o three_o sort_n 1._o some_o of_o they_o be_v direct_o from_o god_n in_o a_o wise_a and_o holy_a manner_n for_o trial_n and_o exercise_n of_o faith_n hope_n charity_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o do_v not_o in_o any_o way_n tempt_v man_n to_o sin_n 2._o some_o be_v from_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o world_n allure_a or_o induce_v man_n to_o sin_n which_o two_o we_o join_v together_o because_o concupiscence_n or_o the_o flesh_n or_o corrupt_a nature_n join_v itself_o with_o the_o world_n and_o
these_o two_o help_v one_o another_o and_o therefore_o be_v join_v together_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o joh._n 2._o 16._o all_o that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o pride_n of_o life_n and_o when_o man_n be_v tempt_v by_o their_o own_o lust_n the_o world_n do_v furnish_v object_n allurement_n and_o inducement_n to_o sin_n the_o three_o sort_n be_v the_o tentation_n from_o satan_n who_o beside_o that_o he_o be_v not_o idle_a to_o take_v advantage_n of_o concupiscence_n and_o the_o world_n inducement_n so_o be_v he_o chief_o busy_a to_o throw_v his_o fiery_a dart_n against_o the_o convert_n and_o to_o solicit_v man_n to_o such_o sin_n as_o the_o convert_n do_v most_o detest_v and_o abhor_v as_o for_o the_o first_o sort_n of_o tentation_n from_o god_n they_o be_v ordinary_o by_o affliction_n bodily_a or_o spiritual_a wherein_o ofttimes_o the_o convert_n do_v not_o observe_v the_o lord_n purpose_n and_o will_n reveal_v in_o scripture_n or_o be_v forgetful_a of_o the_o admonition_n and_o consolation_n which_o they_o have_v hear_v from_o scripture_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o afflict_a saint_n heb._n 12._o 5._o and_o so_o they_o be_v more_o vex_v than_o they_o shall_v be_v and_o ps._n 42._o 11._o deject_a and_o disquiet_v and_o do_v suspect_v that_o god_n be_v angry_a with_o they_o and_o with_o the_o way_n they_o walk_v in_o heb._n 12._o 12_o 13._o of_o this_o sickness_n there_o may_v be_v three_o cause_n 1._o the_o bitterness_n of_o affliction_n for_o the_o present_a time_n wherein_o it_o be_v ●elt_v 2._o the_o sense_n of_o bypass_a sin_n which_o the_o afflict_a do_v suspect_v god_n be_v pursue_v and_o make_v hi●_n possess_v the_o sin_n of_o his_o youth_n job._n 13._o 26._o the_o three_o be_v the_o observation_n of_o inborn_a corruption_n discover_v unto_o the_o afflict_a much_o more_o than_o in_o prosperity_n 4._o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o evil_a let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n persuade_v himself_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o in_o all_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n child_n the_o lord_n do_v intend_v the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n and_o increase_v of_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n bestow_v on_o they_o and_o upon_o this_o consideration_n the_o afflict_a shall_v rejoice_v in_o this_o exercise_n jam._n 1._o 2_o 3._o second_o let_v he_o remember_v that_o with_o the_o trial_n of_o faith_n there_o be_v always_o a_o discovery_n of_o infirmity_n and_o corruption_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o afflict_a as_o in_o the_o purify_n of_o gold_n both_o the_o good_a metal_n and_o the_o dross_n be_v discover_v which_o as_o he_o shall_v acknowledge_v that_o he_o may_v be_v keep_v from_o fret_v so_o must_v he_o still_o remember_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v intend_v the_o trial_n of_o his_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v be_v constant_a in_o believe_v on_o christ_n the_o only_a help_n and_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n three_o in_o whatsoever_o condition_n he_o be_v in_o let_v he_o endeavour_v to_o go_v on_o in_o patience_n experience_n and_o hope_n which_o shall_v never_o make_v he_o ashamed_a for_o this_o do_v the_o lord_n teach_v we_o rom._n 5._o 3_o 4._o and_o jam._n 1._o 4._o as_o for_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o tentation_n from_o the_o concupiscence_n of_o the_o fl●sh_n and_o from_o the_o world_n allurement_n and_o terror_n let_v the_o convert_v afflict_a follow_v the_o same_o course_n which_o be_v prescribe_v in_o the_o remedy_n of_o the_o tentation_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n as_o for_o the_o three_o sort_n of_o tentation_n which_o be_v from_o the_o devil_n tempt_v man_n to_o atheism_n or_o blasphemy_n or_o despair_v or_o self-murder_n and_o such_o like_a which_o even_o nature_n do_v abhor_v whereof_o something_o be_v speak_v elsewhere_o 1._o let_v the_o afflict_a convert_n put_v difference_n between_o the_o devil_n sin_n in_o tempt_v to_o vile_a sin_n and_o his_o own_o seem_v feeble_a resist_v wherein_o albeit_o he_o think_v himself_o pollute_v yet_o his_o not_o yield_v testify_v his_o dissent_v from_o those_o fearful_a sin_n whereunto_o satan_n do_v tempt_v he_o 2._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o consent_n of_o his_o unmortified_a corrupt_a nature_n inclinable_a to_o every_o evil_a from_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o fight_v against_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o hinder_v the_o adversary_n from_o get_v the_o victory_n 3._o let_v he_o put_v difference_n between_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n uphold_v he_o in_o the_o conflict_n and_o the_o full_a victory_n against_o the_o messenger_n of_o satan_n buffet_v he_o for_o god_n use_v to_o susspend_v the_o victory_n for_o a_o time_n and_o yet_o make_v his_o grace_n sufficient_o uphold_v his_o soldier_n till_o the_o victory_n be_v give_v as_o paul_n experience_n 2_o cor._n 12._o teach_v we_o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o pleasant_a spectacle_n to_o the_o lord_n to_o look_v upon_o his_o weak_a child_n strive_v against_o the_o flesh_n the_o world_n and_o satan_n and_o stand_v out_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n against_o they_o all_o 4._o let_v he_o consider_v that_o by_o these_o tentation_n of_o satan_n unto_o vile_a sin_n god_n can_v and_o do_v mortify_v sin_n and_o make_v his_o child_n watchful_a and_o strong_a against_o both_o the_o sinful_a inclination_n unto_o these_o and_o all_o other_o sin_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n let_v he_o beware_v of_o a_o more_o sly_a and_o subtle_a tentation_n which_o satan_n use_v to_o slide_v in_o at_o the_o back_n of_o these_o ugly_a and_o gross_a tentation_n which_o be_v this_o when_o he_o have_v press_v with_o all_o violence_n these_o fiery_a dart_n and_o vile_a suggestion_n upon_o the_o convert_n he_o charge_v the_o afflict_a soul_n with_o a_o give_v consent_n unto_o they_o and_o like_o a_o scold_a calumniator_n impudent_o bear_v guiltiness_n upon_o he_o and_o all_o to_o make_v he_o apprehend_v his_o condition_n to_o be_v worse_o than_o it_o be_v and_o to_o suspect_v that_o god_n by_o this_o exercise_n be_v pursue_v he_o in_o wrath_n and_o this_o tentation_n be_v not_o ready_o observe_v by_o the_o afflict_a convert_n but_o yield_v unto_o more_o than_o to_o the_o gros●e_a tentation_n therefore_o in_o the_o last_o place_n let_v the_o convert_v guard_n against_o this_o tentation_n which_o brangle_v his_o faith_n and_o lay_v the_o blame_n with_o the_o apostle_n on_o corrupt_a nature_n whatsoever_o guiltiness_n be_v find_v rom._n 7._o 17._o now_o than_o it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o that_o do_v it_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o a_o speech_n beseem_v a_o man_n free_a of_o out-breaking_a and_o prevail_a corruption_n and_o strive_v against_o all_o inward_a motion_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n and_o for_o remedy_n of_o this_o and_o other_o evil_n let_v he_o renew_v the_o act_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o christ_n lay_v hold_n upon_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o he_o may_v more_o confident_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n reconcile_v in_o christ_n and_o so_o no_o more_o doubt_n of_o god_n good_a will_n to_o he_o notwithstanding_o of_o his_o hard_a exercise_n under_o tentation_n for_o thus_o satan_n shall_v not_o only_o fly_v from_o the_o first_o tentation_n be_v resist_v but_o also_o be_v disappoint_v of_o the_o success_n he_o expect_v in_o question_v the_o covert_n condition_n and_o weaken_n of_o his_o faith_n chap._n xxvii_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n when_o he_o do_v observe_v some_o degree_n of_o god_n desert_v of_o he_o to_o speak_v of_o the_o sort_n and_o degree_n of_o god_n desert_v a_o soul_n require_v a_o large_a treatise_n and_o the_o case_n and_o cure_v thereof_o be_v already_o public_o set_v forth_o by_o a_o learned_a and_o godly_a preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o shall_v suffice_v for_o our_o purpose_n to_o speak_v of_o it_o only_o so_o far_o as_o it_o concern_v the_o convert_n mistake_v his_o condition_n when_o he_o apprehend_v himself_o desert_v whether_o the_o desertion_n be_v real_a or_o apparent_a only_a and_o fall_v into_o suspicion_n of_o god_n love_n to_o he_o or_o that_o god_n be_v displease_v with_o he_o because_o he_o find_v not_o such_o lively_a influence_n of_o god_n spirit_n as_o he_o have_v find_v and_o such_o assistance_n of_o his_o gracious_a presence_n as_o he_o do_v expect_v in_o discharge_n of_o religious_a duty_n or_o exercise_n wherein_o divine_a providence_n have_v yoke_v he_o the_o scripture_n and_o daily_a experience_n do_v furnish_v instance_n of_o sad_a complaint_n of_o the_o lord_n hide_v his_o face_n and_o withdraw_a or_o withhold_a of_o light_n or_o peace_n or_o consolation_n or_o strength_n and_o ability_n for_o spiritual_a duty_n etc._n etc._n 2._o for_o remedy_v whereof_o 1._o let_v the_o convert_v remember_v that_o god_n do_v not_o leave_v a_o believer_n flee_v to_o christ_n for_o relief_n from_o sin_n and_o misery_n always_o
whether_o the_o believer_n perceive_v his_o absolution_n or_o not_o for_o the_o time_n 4._o there_o be_v a_o sensible_a intimation_n of_o this_o sentence_n unto_o the_o believer_n join_v with_o peace_n and_o joy_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o shed_v abroad_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o heart_n rom._n 5._o 5._o and_o the_o seal_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n stamp_v the_o heart_n with_o holiness_n ephes._n 1._o 13._o the_o first_o three_o make_v the_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n certain_a whether_o the_o believer_n think_v so_o or_o not_o but_o the_o four_o which_o be_v the_o sensible_a intimation_n of_o this_o sentence_n do_v make_v the_o believer_n both_o sure_a and_o joyful_a as_o justification_n be_v take_v passive_o four_o thing_n may_v be_v distinguish_v in_o the_o believer_n justify_v the_o first_o be_v his_o actual_a receive_n of_o christ_n offer_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o a_o perfect_a remedy_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n the_o second_o be_v the_o lord_n judicial_a settle_v of_o the_o general_a sentence_n of_o absolution_n upon_o the_o believer_n as_o if_o he_o have_v speak_v to_o he_o by_o name_n as_o he_o do_v to_o the_o apostle_n joh._n 15._o 3._o now_o be_v you_o clean_o through_o the_o word_n i_o ●ave_n speak_v unto_o you_o that_o be_v you_o be_v clean_a from_o the_o guil●_n of_o sin_n by_o my_o absolve_v of_o you_o the_o three_o be_v the_o believer_n observe_v in_o a_o reflect_v act_n of_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o have_v flee_v to_o christ_n for_o absolution_n and_o therefore_o justify_v indeed_o the_o four_o be_v the_o feeling_n and_o observe_v of_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n bear_v witness_n with_o his_o spirit_n that_o he_o be_v a_o child_n of_o god_n absolve_v from_o sin_n and_o wrath_n the_o first_o two_o of_o these_o to_o wit_n the_o act_n of_o faith_n receive_v of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o right_n make_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o believer_n in_o he_o of_o his_o absolution_n may_v be_v in_o and_o on_o the_o believer_n without_o the_o other_o two_o to_o wit_n his_o observation_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o feel_a intimation_n of_o this_o worl●_n of_o grace_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n 2._o for_o solve_v of_o the_o doubt_n then_o as_o justification_n be_v active_o take_v as_o proceed_v from_o the_o immanent_a act_n of_o god_n eternal_a purpose_n and_o decree_n to_o justify_v the_o believer_n it_o be_v no_o more_o the_o actual_a justification_n in_o this_o life_n of_o which_o we_o be_v speak_v than_o the_o immanent_a act_n of_o god_n eternal_a purpose_n to_o raise_v the_o body_n of_o believer_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o glorify_v they_o in_o soul_n and_o body_n can_v be_v call_v the_o actual_a resurrection_n of_o their_o body_n and_o glorification_n of_o both_o soul_n and_o body_n in_o this_o life_n but_o the_o transient_a act_n of_o justification_n in_o a_o judicial_a way_n which_o be_v the_o lord_n judicial_a sentence_n of_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n declare_v by_o his_o word_n set_v down_o now_o in_o holy_a scripture_n it_o be_v indeed_o and_o formal_o the_o believer_n justification_n and_o be_v judicial_o terminar_a upon_o every_o believer_n in_o the_o act_n of_o his_o conversion_n whether_o the_o believer_n do_v clear_o perceive_v his_o own_o conversion_n or_o be_v in_o suspicion_n of_o his_o be_v reconcile_v and_o justify_v and_o this_o may_v be_v make_v to_o appear_v if_o we_o compare_v the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o unbeliever_n with_o the_o absolution_n of_o the_o believer_n flee_v to_o christ_n joh._n 3._o 18._o as_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o in_o christ_n be_v condemn_v already_o because_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o condemnation_n pronounce_v in_o the_o scripture_n by_o god_n the_o sovereign_a judge_n stand_v against_o he_o so_o long_o as_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v in_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n and_o this_o sentence_n stand_v fast_o whether_o the_o unbeliever_n take_v notice_n of_o this_o sentence_n or_o not_o whether_o he_o do_v apply_v it_o to_o himself_o or_o not_o do_v find_v grief_n for_o it_o or_o not_o so_o the_o believer_n in_o christ_n be_v relax_v from_o condemnation_n and_o absolve_v and_o have_v right_a unto_o eternal_a life_n and_o begin_v possession_n of_o it_o albeit_o for_o the_o time_n of_o his_o infancy_n tentation_n tremble_v and_o fear_n it_o be_v not_o so_o albeit_o he_o do_v not_o perceive_v the_o bless_a change_n of_o his_o state_n nor_o do_v lay_v to_o heart_n as_o he_o may_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n judicial_o pronounce_v the_o sentence_n comprehend_v he_o as_o certain_o as_o if_o his_o name_n be_v express_v joh._n 3._o 18._o he_o that_o believe_v on_o he_o be_v not_o condemn_v and_o ver_fw-la 36._o he_o that_o believe_v on_o the_o son_n have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o joh._n 6._o from_o ver_fw-la 37._o to_o 41._o hence_o we_o conclude_v that_o the_o formal_a act_n of_o justification_n of_o a_o man_n flee_v to_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o write_a sentence_n of_o the_o judge_n absolve_v every_o believer_n and_o the_o man_n we_o speak_v of_o there_o be_v another_o transient_a act_n of_o god_n in_o a_o actual_a revelation_n of_o justification_n wherein_o the_o holy_a ghost_n open_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o believer_n to_o behold_v and_o perceive_v the_o gift_n of_o say_v already_o bestow_v on_o he_o of_o this_o speak_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 2._o 12._o and_o after_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v point_v out_o his_o own_o grace_n bestow_v on_o the_o believer_n he_o follow_v his_o work_n by_o give_v remarkable_a peace_n and_o joy_n as_o earnest_n of_o life_n everlasting_a whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v ephes._n 1._o 13._o in_o who_o you_o also_o trust_v after_o you_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n the_o gospel_n of_o your_o salvation_n in_o who_o also_o after_o you_o have_v believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n therefore_o he_o that_o desire_v to_o have_v the_o intimation_n of_o his_o justification_n after_o fly_v for_o refuge_n unto_o christ_n for_o relief_n of_o feel_a sin_n and_o fear_v wrath_n must_v read_v his_o absolution_n in_o the_o gospel_n as_o well_o as_o he_o have_v read_v before_o that_o his_o condemnation_n in_o the_o law_n unto_o which_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n let_v he_o hold_v fast_o in_o his_o daily_a endeavour_n after_o sanctification_n the_o five_o question_n be_v how_o to_o satisfy_v the_o convert_n who_o find_v himself_o pursue_v for_o his_o sin_n after_o remission_n believe_v and_o be_v bring_v in_o question_n what_o to_o judge_v of_o his_o case_n many_o convert_n have_v fall_v in_o job_n case_n and_o seem_v to_o themselves_o to_o possess_v the_o sin_n of_o their_o youth_n job_n 13._o 26._o for_o after_o conversion_n and_o feel_v reconciliation_n they_o find_v the_o sin_n they_o do_v repent_v of_o and_o do_v believe_v to_o be_v forgive_v through_o christ_n object_v to_o they_o afresh_o pursue_v with_o sharp_a accusation_n and_o sign_n of_o wrath_n join_v therewith_o their_o reconciliation_n and_o righteousness_n through_o christ_n they_o purpose_v to_o hold_v fast_o their_o old_a guiltiness_n and_o sentence_n of_o their_o conscience_n write_v bitter_a thing_n against_o they_o they_o can_v deny_v the_o pinch_n be_v here_o either_o the_o remission_n they_o do_v believe_v be_v null_a or_o the_o challenge_n be_v unjust_a do_v they_o reason_n with_o themselves_o the_o nullity_n of_o their_o remission_n they_o dare_v not_o admit_v and_o the_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n they_o can_v deny_v and_o the_o doubt_n what_o to_o think_v of_o this_o case_n they_o can_v shun_v not_o see_v how_o these_o thing_n can_v consist_v and_o stand_v together_o 2._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o doubt_n these_o four_o thing_n must_v be_v distinguish_v and_o how_o they_o may_v all_o consist_v one_o with_o another_o must_v be_v timous_o consider_v the_o four_o thing_n to_o be_v distinguish_v be_v 1._o the_o reconciliation_n of_o a_o convert_n with_o god_n 2._o the_o remission_n of_o the_o reconcile_a man_n sin_n free_o gift_v unto_o he_o by_o god_n 3._o a_o renew_a bitter_a accusation_n raise_v by_o satan_n against_o the_o re●iled_a convert_n 4._o the_o holy_a and_o wise_a dispensation_n of_o god_n permit_v &_o order_v these_o renew_a accusation_n of_o his_o child_n by_o satan_n for_o the_o trial_n and_o exercise_n of_o his_o faith_n and_o growth_n of_o his_o repentance_n and_o other_o good_a end_n now_o for_o the_o consistence_n of_o these_o four_o we_o need_v not_o doubt_n but_o the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n can_v cast_v up_o to_o we_o forgive_v sin_n and_o bear_v upon_o we_o that_o they_o be_v not_o forgive_v neither_o need_v we_o doubt_v but_o god_n in_o wisdom_n and_o love_n to_o his_o child_n may_v suffer_v satan_n to_o
and_o faith_n in_o he_o and_o so_o save_v the_o believer_n 1_o joh._n 1._o 9_o and_o 2._o 1._o 7._o as_o for_o the_o last_o objection_n take_v from_o the_o impossibility_n of_o know_v take_v notice_n of_o or_o confess_v every_o sin_n wherewith_o we_o be_v daily_o pollute_v or_o from_o the_o impossibility_n of_o put_v repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o exercise_n about_o every_o particular_a sin_n we_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o child_n of_o god_n notwithstanding_o of_o this_o impossibility_n acknowledge_v by_o they_o have_v seek_v and_o obtain_v renew_v remission_n of_o their_o innumerable_a sin_n ps._n 40._o 12._o and_o ps._n 19_o 12_o 13._o 8._o second_o such_o as_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n upon_o confession_n of_o such_o sin_n as_o they_o know_v and_o do_v remember_v be_v accept_v of_o god_n as_o if_o they_o have_v confess_v all_o their_o sin_n particular_o because_o he_o that_o have_v no_o mind_n to_o deny_v or_o excuse_v any_o sin_n in_o himself_o but_o be_v willing_a to_o open_v up_o his_o heart_n to_o god_n in_o sincerity_n and_o to_o canfesse_v every_o particular_a if_o he_o be_v able_a he_o have_v present_v a_o contrite_a heart_n before_o god_n which_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n acceptable_a to_o god_n ps._n 51._o 8_o 9_o ps._n 32._o 5._o and_o this_o much_o also_o christ_n do_v teach_v we_o speak_v of_o the_o publican_n who_o make_v a_o short_a and_o general_a confession_n of_o his_o sin_n in_o sincerity_n and_o go_v home_o justify_v luk._n 18._o 13_o 14._o three_o it_o be_v not_o impossible_a for_o a_o watchful_a conscience_n to_o observe_v daily_o as_o many_o particular_a sprouting_n from_o the_o root_n of_o inborn_a sin_n as_o may_v humble_v he_o daily_o and_o bear_v down_o all_o confidence_n in_o his_o own_o righteousness_n and_o furnish_v to_o he_o mater_fw-la for_o exercise_v of_o repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o christ._n and_o this_o lesson_n the_o lord_n do_v teach_v his_o people_n under_o the_o law_n by_o the_o twice_o offer_v sacrifice_n every_o day_n morning_n and_o evening_n that_o his_o people_n observe_v daily_o the_o run_a issue_n of_o corrupt_a nature_n may_v daily_o have_v their_o recourse_n by_o faith_n unto_o the_o lamb_n of_o god_n that_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o own_o people_n and_o hitherto_o we_o be_v direct_v to_o look_v is._n 45._o 22._o and_o 1_o job._n 2._o 1._o mean_a time_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n let_v we_o beware_v to_o lay_v any_o sort_n of_o merit_n upon_o our_o daily_a exercise_n of_o faith_n and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n in_o our_o repentance_n otherways_o we_o shall_v be_v find_v offerer_n unto_o god_n of_o satisfaction_n from_o we_o and_o not_o suitor_n of_o remission_n of_o sin_n from_o god_n and_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n let_v we_o beware_v to_o be_v discourage_v albeit_o we_o do_v not_o find_v daily_o the_o renew_a intimation_n and_o sense_n of_o remission_n but_o as_o we_o apply_v the_o law_n to_o ourselves_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o repentance_n so_o let_v we_o apply_v the_o sentence_n of_o absolution_n pronounce_v in_o the_o gospel_n in_o favour_n of_o every_o penitent_a soul_n that_o fly_v to_o christ_n for_o refuge_n the_o ten_o question_n shall_v be_v concern_v spiritual_a disposition_n of_o mind_n and_o qualification_n which_o may_v be_v join_v with_o or_o separat_fw-la from_o the_o special_a work_n of_o true_a conversion_n and_o save_a grace_n the_o apostle_n heb._n 6._o 4_o 5_o 6_o 9_o 10._o tell_v we_o of_o sundry_a qualification_n which_o may_v be_v find_v in_o unconvert_v man_n and_o also_o he_o tell_v we_o of_o better_a thing_n which_o do_v accompany_v salvation_n and_o be_v sure_a evidence_n of_o regeneration_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n there_o be_v among_o other_o these_o five_o 1._o a_o legal_a conviction_n of_o the_o vileness_n of_o sin_n and_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n 2._o a_o renounce_n of_o unlawful_a pleasure_n join_v with_o a_o refrain_v even_o from_o lawful_a and_o allow_v worldly_a delight_n 3._o a_o natural_a desire_n of_o salvation_n and_o of_o sanctification_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v 4._o a_o purpose_n to_o live_v righteous_o holy_o and_o sober_o in_o this_o present_a world_n 5._o a_o outward_a change_n of_o manner_n and_o conversation_n so_o far_o as_o they_o may_v be_v blameless_a before_o man_n these_o and_o such_o like_a qualification_n may_v make_v a_o fair_a show_n in_o the_o flesh_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v find_v to_o be_v not_o only_o in_o true_a convert_n but_o also_o in_o such_o as_o be_v stranger_n from_o the_o life_n of_o god_n such_o be_v the_o apostle_n paul_n before_o conversion_n such_o be_v israel_n rom._n 9_o 31._o which_o follow_v after_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n and_o do_v not_o attain_v to_o the_o law_n of_o righteousness_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n righteousness_n do_v and_o go_a about_o to_o establish_v their_o own_o righteousness_n do_v not_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n rom._n 10._o 3._o of_o this_o sort_n be_v such_o of_o the_o papist_n who_o go_v about_o to_o be_v justify_v by_o their_o own_o work_n and_o do_v but_o mock_v at_o the_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n call_v it_o blasphemous_o a_o putatious_a or_o conceit_a righteousness_n not_o consider_v that_o the_o pope_n and_o his_o servant_n do_v reckon_v the_o imputation_n of_o the_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n of_o man_n and_o of_o the_o superfluity_n of_o the_o saint_n righteousness_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o work_n of_o supererogation_n to_o be_v worth_a a_o great_a sum_n of_o money_n as_o they_o find_v their_o merchant_n concern_v these_o five_o qualification_n some_o convert_n especial_o such_o as_o desire_v to_o see_v the_o evidence_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o those_o with_o who_o they_o will_v join_v in_o the_o society_n of_o church-membership_a may_v make_v question_n what_o to_o think_v whether_o they_o be_v save_v grace_n or_o common_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n 2._o for_o answer_v we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o a_o man_n judge_v of_o those_o qualification_n in_o himself_o and_o his_o judge_n of_o another_o in_o who_o these_o qualification_n appear_v to_o be_v for_o a_o man_n judge_v of_o himself_o may_v attain_v to_o a_o clear_a and_o certain_a discern_v of_o save_a grace_n in_o himself_o as_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v 1_o cor._n 2_o 11_o 12._o in_o which_o case_n of_o our_o judge_n of_o ourselves_o this_o much_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o a_o man_n find_v in_o himself_o those_o qualification_n join_v with_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o righteousness_n and_o eternal_a life_n and_o be_v seek_v furniture_n from_o christ_n to_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n of_o his_o faith_n in_o new_a obedience_n he_o may_v be_v quiet_a and_o be_v out_o of_o doubt_n of_o save_a grace_n in_o himself_o for_o unto_o such_o a_o person_n the_o description_n of_o a_o true_a convert_n may_v safe_o be_v apply_v phil._n 3._o 3_o we_o be_v the_o circumcision_n etc._n etc._n and_o pre-suppose_a he_o have_v observe_v these_o qualification_n in_o himself_o before_o he_o have_v observe_v his_o close_n with_o christ_n or_o his_o application_n of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n through_o he_o he_o neither_o need_v nor_o shall_v trouble_v himself_o or_o other_o with_o question_v whether_o such_o and_o such_o qualification_n in_o he_o before_o his_o fix_v on_o christ_n be_v the_o common_a or_o special_a operation_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o see_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n come_v not_o with_o observation_n always_o it_o be_v hard_o to_o determine_v of_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o the_o work_n of_o save_a grace_n by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n because_o save_v faith_n have_v in_o it_o the_o substance_n of_o historical_a dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n and_o therefore_o when_o both_o save_a faith_n and_o historical_a dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n may_v produce_v belief_n of_o the_o law_n and_o convince_v the_o man_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n due_a for_o sin_n and_o produce_v the_o belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n also_o without_o application_n of_o the_o offer_n of_o reconciliation_n how_o shall_v a_o man_n determine_v whether_o these_o effect_n be_v produce_v by_o virtue_n of_o dogmatical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n or_o by_o virtue_n of_o save_a faith_n until_o the_o time_n that_o the_o humble_a sinner_n fly_v in_o unto_o christ_n and_o seek_v to_o draw_v furniture_n from_o he_o for_o new_a obedience_n of_o the_o law_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o so_o put_v difference_n betwixt_o save_a faith_n and_o that_o faith_n which_o may_v be_v in_o a_o unregenerat_a and_o unreconciled_a man_n but_o when_o the_o man_n be_v come_v up_o to_o apply_v christ_n and_o cleave_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n and_o life_n and_o furniture_n to_o carry_v he_o on_o the_o way_n unto_o salvation_n it_o be_v not_o his_o wisdom_n to_o dispute_v whether_o these_o