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grace_n word_n work_n worse_a 42 3 8.3064 4 false
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A20752 The Christian warfare wherein is first generally shewed the malice, power and politike stratagems of the spirituall ennemies of our saluation, Sathan and his assistants the world and the flesh, with the meanes also whereby the Christian may vvithstand and defeate them : and afterwards more speciallie their particvlar temptatiions, against the seuerall causes and meanes of our saluation, whereby on the one side they allure vs to security and presumption, and on the other side, draw vs to doubting and desperation, are expressed and answered : written especially for their sakes who are exercised in the spirituall conflict of temptations, and are afflicted in conscience in the sight and sense of their sinnes / by I. Dovvname ... Downame, John, d. 1652. 1604 (1604) STC 7133; ESTC S1536 575,484 731

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and_o all_o sanctify_a and_o save_v grace_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o minister_n himself_o find_v not_o the_o word_n which_o he_o deliver_v effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o grace_n in_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o be_v powerful_a in_o many_o of_o the_o hearer_n for_o these_o purpose_n because_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v not_o the_o assistance_n and_o inward_a cooperation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n with_o the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n unto_o he_o which_o notwithstanding_o he_o merciful_o grant_v unto_o other_o see_v then_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v god_n own_o ordinance_n which_o he_o make_v effectual_a to_o who_o he_o will_v by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n by_o whosoever_o it_o be_v deliver_v and_o see_v those_o minister_n which_o be_v most_o holy_a and_o virtuous_a can_v at_o their_o pleasure_n infuse_v grace_n into_o their_o hearer_n for_o paul_n may_v plant_v and_o apollo_n may_v water_v but_o god_n give_v the_o increase_n 3.5_o 1._o cor._n 3.5_o so_o that_o neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o be_v any_o thing_n in_o themselves_o without_o god_n blessing_n see_v also_o those_o who_o be_v loose_a and_o vicious_a if_o they_o true_o preach_v the_o truth_n itself_o can_v by_o their_o badness_n hinder_v god_n ordinance_n but_o that_o come_n from_o their_o mouth_n it_o will_v be_v effectual_a for_o the_o conversion_n of_o man_n unto_o god_n and_o the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o those_o that_o believe_v for_o though_o unto_o himself_o it_o be_v but_o a_o dead_a letter_n yet_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v give_v life_n unto_o it_o in_o those_o who_o receive_v it_o and_o though_o he_o preach_v for_o glory_n or_o gain_v or_o for_o envy_n and_o strife_n yet_o we_o must_v with_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v any_o manner_n of_o way_n 1.15.18_o phil._n 1.15.18_o and_o reap_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o to_o our_o eternal_a comfort_n last_o see_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n think_v it_o good_a to_o send_v ambassador_n of_o both_o sort_n sanctify_a and_o unsanctified_a and_o oftentimes_o make_v the_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n for_n a_o faithful_a and_o godly_a minister_n the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n and_o the_o same_o word_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o one_o who_o be_v void_a of_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o depend_v upon_o man_n but_o whole_o rest_v and_o rely_v ourselves_o upon_o god_n own_o ordinance_n give_v and_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o the_o whole_a glory_n and_o praise_n of_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o think_v the_o worse_a of_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n because_o of_o his_o corruption_n who_o deliver_v it_o for_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o comfortable_a ambassage_n from_o a_o gracious_a prince_n because_o we_o dislike_v the_o quality_n of_o the_o ambassador_n what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o scorn_v to_o receive_v a_o kind_a letter_n from_o a_o love_a father_n because_o the_o carrier_n do_v displease_v we_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o refuse_v a_o rich_a treasure_n because_o it_o be_v bring_v unto_o we_o in_o a_o earthen_a vessel_n which_o be_v frail_a and_o brittle_a what_o be_v it_o but_o like_o proud_a beggar_n to_o refuse_v the_o bountiful_a alm_n of_o a_o merciful_a prince_n because_o it_o be_v deliver_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o amner_n which_o be_v covetous_a and_o hard_a heart_a yea_o what_o be_v it_o but_o to_o cross_v our_o saviour_n christ_n express_a commandment_n who_o command_v all_o to_o hear_v even_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n who_o sit_v in_o moses_n chair_n 23._o matth._n 23._o and_o to_o do_v after_o their_o word_n though_o not_o after_o their_o work_n in_o a_o word_n what_o be_v it_o else_o than_o to_o pin_n god_n ordinance_n upon_o man_n sleeve_n and_o to_o make_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n 1.16_o rom._n 1.16_o which_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n unto_o every_o one_o who_o believe_v to_o depend_v upon_o the_o weak_a strength_n of_o frail_a flesh_n either_o to_o be_v make_v effectual_a by_o his_o worthiness_n or_o to_o be_v make_v vain_a and_o unprofitable_a by_o his_o unworthiness_n chap._n xxiiii_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o sundry_a opinion_n sect_n and_o religion_n answer_v and_o thus_o satan_n may_v be_v answer_v religion_n §._o sect._n 1._o satan_n temptation_n persuade_v we_o to_o profess_v no_o religion_n when_o he_o take_v occasion_n of_o discredit_v the_o gospel_n and_o hinder_v the_o course_n thereof_o by_o object_v the_o wickedness_n and_o worldly_a profaneness_n or_o the_o infirmity_n and_o frail_a weakness_n of_o the_o minister_n thereof_o but_o if_o he_o can_v thus_o prevail_v he_o leave_v their_o life_n and_o come_v to_o their_o doctrine_n do_v thou_o not_o see_v will_n he_o say_v that_o there_o be_v innumerable_a sect_n and_o contrary_a faction_n among_o those_o who_o profess_v christianity_n some_o papist_n some_o protestant_n some_o arian_n some_o anabaptist_n some_o pelagian_o some_o libertine_n some_o familist_n some_o donatist_n &_o many_o other_o who_o all_o cite_v and_o allege_v scripture_n for_o the_o defend_n of_o their_o contrary_a opinion_n &_o confident_o affirm_v that_o they_o only_o have_v the_o truth_n among_o they_o how_o therefore_o can_v thou_o know_v which_o be_v truth_n and_o which_o be_v falsehood_n who_o interpret_v the_o scripture_n aright_o and_o who_o wrest_v and_o misconstrue_v they_o or_o if_o thou_o be_v dispose_v to_o be_v religious_a what_o religion_n will_v thou_o profess_v in_o this_o great_a confusion_n to_o what_o church_n will_v thou_o adjoine_v thyself_o see_v one_o be_v contrary_a to_o another_o and_o thou_o know_v not_o which_o be_v in_o the_o truth_n if_o thou_o be_v wise_a therefore_o keep_v thyself_o quiet_a and_o let_v all_o alone_a harken_v not_o to_o any_o of_o they_o or_o if_o thou_o do_v believe_v they_o not_o over_o hasty_o be_v of_o that_o religion_n which_o will_v best_o stand_v with_o thy_o advantage_n or_o if_o thou_o will_v needs_o serve_v god_n follow_v thy_o own_o conscience_n have_v a_o good_a intention_n in_o that_o thou_o do_v and_o it_o be_v enough_o but_o profess_v not_o one_o religion_n more_o than_o another_o till_o thou_o see_v those_o who_o be_v learn_v agree_v among_o themselves_o for_o until_o then_o thou_o can_v have_v no_o assurance_n that_o thou_o profess_v the_o truth_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o scripture_n have_v foretell_v unto_o we_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v sect_n division_n 2.1_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o heresy_n &_o false_a teacher_n even_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o 1._o tim._n 4.1_o 2._o pet._n 2.1_o and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o time_n both_o under_o the_o law_n &_o under_o the_o gospel_n may_v sufficient_o teach_v we_o that_o wheresoever_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v publish_v and_o preach_v there_o it_o be_v oppose_v by_o innumerable_a sectary_n and_o heretic_n which_o by_o the_o malice_n and_o subtlety_n of_o satan_n be_v stir_v up_o to_o impugn_v and_o discredit_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o therefore_o if_o satan_n can_v still_o keep_v we_o blindfould_v in_o ignorance_n and_o restrain_v we_o from_o the_o confession_n and_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n till_o there_o be_v a_o general_a unity_n and_o agreement_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n without_o all_o opposition_n or_o gainsay_n than_o he_o have_v attain_v his_o desire_n for_o so_o shall_v we_o never_o join_v ourselves_o in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o saint_n nor_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n profess_v &_o practise_v the_o religion_n of_o jesus_n christ_n see_v the_o devil_n will_v not_o cease_v to_o stir_v up_o his_o wicked_a instrument_n false_a prophet_n secraty_n and_o heretic_n to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v oppugn_v and_o contradict_v the_o truth_n when_o it_o be_v sincere_o preach_v and_o make_v it_o fruitless_a in_o the_o heart_n of_o unbeliever_n see_v also_o our_o saviour_n have_v teach_v we_o that_o his_o church_n be_v but_o a_o little_a flock_n which_o be_v assault_v and_o grievous_o vex_v not_o only_o with_o lion_n tiger_n and_o open_a enemy_n but_o also_o with_o fox_n and_o wolf_n in_o sheep_n clothing_n and_o secret_a enemy_n who_o under_o the_o show_n and_o profession_n of_o religion_n seek_v to_o undermine_v and_o bring_v it_o to_o ruin_v and_o the_o apostle_n also_o have_v forewarn_v we_o that_o there_o must_v be_v heresy_n among_o we_o 11.19_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o that_o they_o who_o be_v approve_v may_v be_v know_v 1._o cor._n 11.19_o though_o therefore_o there_o be_v many_o sect_n and_o heresy_n many_o false_a religion_n and_o but_o one_o truth_n
god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n so_o he_o have_v not_o leave_v out_o the_o little_a &_o weak_a say_v of_o thomas_n who_o will_v not_o believe_v further_o than_o he_o see_v and_o feel_v yea_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o word_n have_v reveal_v unto_o we_o the_o diverse_a degree_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o same_o man_n in_o respect_n of_o diverse_a time_n believer_n that_o the_o scripture_n set_v forth_o unto_o we_o the_o diverse_a degree_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o same_o believer_n at_o one_o time_n like_o a_o grain_n of_o mustard_n seed_n at_o another_o time_n like_o a_o great_a tree_n at_o one_o time_n like_o a_o little_a smoke_n and_o soon_o after_o burst_v out_o into_o a_o great_a flame_n now_o like_o a_o weak_a reed_n waver_v and_o decline_v with_o the_o small_a blast_n of_o any_o trial_n and_o within_o a_o while_n like_o a_o immovable_a rock_n which_o beat_v back_o huge_a billow_n and_o even_o a_o whole_a sea_n of_o violent_a tentation_n in_o a_o word_n it_o set_v out_o to_o our_o view_n as_o it_o be_v portray_v in_o a_o fresh_a and_o live_v picture_n the_o diverse_a age_n of_o a_o christian_n as_o he_o be_v in_o his_o conception_n and_o preparation_n to_o grace_n and_o as_o he_o be_v in_o his_o new_a birth_n and_o first_o conversion_n as_o he_o be_v a_o babe_n and_o as_o he_o grow_v from_o his_o infancy_n to_o great_a age_n and_o strength_n till_o he_o come_v to_o ripe_a year_n and_o to_o be_v a_o strong_a man_n in_o christ_n beside_o it_o show_v unto_o we_o his_o diverse_a relapse_n through_o sin_n the_o sickness_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o how_o oftentimes_o the_o spiritual_a growth_n be_v hinder_v and_o the_o strength_n of_o god_n grace_n abate_v and_o much_o weaken_v by_o the_o cotidian_a ague_n of_o our_o corruption_n and_o satan_n tentation_n and_o also_o after_o these_o fit_n be_v drive_v away_o by_o virtue_n of_o god_n spirit_n how_o we_o receive_v a_o great_a increase_n of_o grace_n and_o measure_n of_o strength_n whereby_o we_o grow_v more_o in_o christianity_n and_o godliness_n in_o a_o year_n than_o we_o do_v in_o two_o before_o all_o which_o be_v set_v down_o to_o this_o end_n that_o we_o shall_v not_o make_v our_o infancy_n our_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o full_a growth_n but_o labour_v to_o increase_v in_o grace_n till_o we_o become_v of_o babe_n strong_a man_n in_o christ_n as_o also_o that_o find_v ourselves_o as_o weak_a as_o little_a infant_n we_o be_v not_o utter_o discourage_v for_o if_o we_o suck_v the_o breast_n of_o our_o spiritual_a mother_n the_o true_a church_n and_o receive_v from_o she_o the_o milk_n and_o strong_a meat_n of_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n we_o shall_v assure_o grow_v up_o from_o grace_n to_o grace_n and_o strength_n to_o strength_n till_o of_o babe_n we_o become_v strong_a man_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o though_o we_o have_v many_o great_a sickness_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o relapse_n into_o sin_n whereby_o our_o spiritual_a growth_n for_o a_o time_n be_v hinder_v and_o our_o strength_n in_o god_n grace_n much_o abate_v yet_o if_o we_o often_o feed_v upon_o the_o comfortable_a food_n of_o god_n word_n and_o use_v this_o spiritual_a physic_n prescribe_v by_o god_n himself_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o again_o recover_v our_o former_a strength_n and_o health_n but_o also_o find_v a_o great_a increase_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o us._n §_o sect._n 3_o last_o satan_n will_v suggest_v that_o though_o our_o faith_n be_v true_a faith_n that_o satan_n can_v prevail_v against_o the_o weak_a faith_n yet_o it_o be_v so_o exceed_v small_a and_o weak_a that_o with_o the_o violence_n of_o his_o tentation_n and_o huge_a mass_n of_o our_o own_o corruption_n it_o will_v easy_o be_v overthrow_v and_o turn_v into_o infidelity_n to_o which_o we_o be_v to_o answer_v that_o though_o hereby_o our_o faith_n may_v be_v shrewd_o shake_v yet_o it_o can_v never_o be_v overturn_v though_o it_o may_v be_v cover_v with_o the_o ash_n of_o our_o corruption_n yet_o it_o can_v never_o be_v utter_o quench_v though_o through_o our_o gretuous_a foil_n and_o fall_n in_o the_o combat_n of_o tentation_n it_o may_v be_v as_o it_o be_v bring_v into_o a_o trance_n so_o as_o we_o can_v sensible_o discern_v any_o action_n motion_n or_o life_n of_o faith_n yet_o the_o habit_n and_o grace_n itself_o after_o it_o be_v once_o give_v of_o god_n be_v never_o take_v away_o neither_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v quite_o destroy_v by_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n and_o this_o may_v appear_v by_o diverse_a reason_n first_o because_o faith_n be_v not_o of_o ourselves_o but_o the_o free_a gift_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v ephe._n 2.8_o 2.8_o eph._n 2.8_o and_o whatsoever_o sanctifing_n and_o save_v grace_n the_o lord_n give_v that_o he_o never_o take_v utter_o away_o for_o the_o gift_n and_o call_n of_o god_n be_v without_o repentance_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 11.29_o rom._n 11.29_o rom._n 11.29_o second_o whosoever_o true_o believe_v he_o be_v true_o knit_v and_o unite_v unto_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n which_o as_o it_o beget_v and_o begin_v all_o the_o sanctify_a and_o save_v grace_n in_o we_o so_o also_o it_o nourish_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v they_o so_o as_o they_o can_v never_o utter_o fail_v for_o whatsoever_o good_a work_n he_o begin_v that_o will_v he_o also_o perfect_a and_o accomplish_v 1.26_o phil._n 1.26_o phil._n 1.6_o three_o whosoever_o true_o believe_v he_o be_v true_o justify_v and_o whosoever_o be_v justify_v be_v elect_v call_v and_o shall_v be_v glorify_v for_o these_o inseparable_o go_v together_o 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o and_o consequent_o he_o that_o have_v true_a faith_n whereby_o he_o be_v justify_v can_v fall_v away_o see_v his_o justification_n be_v as_o certain_a as_o the_o eternal_a decree_n of_o god_n election_n §_o sect._n 4_o last_o believer_n that_o god_n both_o can_v and_o will_v uphould_v the_o weak_a believer_n god_n both_o can_v and_o will_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v all_o those_o who_o be_v weak_a in_o faith_n till_o they_o attain_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o their_o faith_n even_o the_o salvation_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o they_o which_o once_o true_o believe_v shall_v fall_v away_o and_o be_v condemn_v concern_v god_n power_n no_o man_n can_v make_v any_o question_n see_v it_o be_v omnipotent_a and_o almighty_a and_o for_o his_o will_n he_o have_v full_o reveal_v it_o both_o by_o his_o word_n and_o work_n namely_o that_o he_o will_v not_o take_v away_o that_o grace_n which_o he_o have_v once_o give_v but_o rather_o increase_v it_o till_o it_o be_v perfect_v and_o accomplish_v mother_n esa_n 66.13_o god_n love_v compare_v to_o the_o love_n of_o a_o tender_a mother_n for_o the_o first_o the_o lord_n say_v that_o he_o will_v comfort_v his_o church_n and_o people_n as_o the_o woman_n comfort_v her_o child_n esa_n 66.13_o now_o we_o know_v that_o the_o mother_n do_v not_o abandon_v her_o child_n nor_o deprive_v he_o of_o that_o comfort_n which_o she_o can_v give_v he_o because_o he_o be_v sick_a and_o weak_a but_o rather_o the_o sick_a and_o weak_a he_o be_v the_o more_o be_v her_o care_n and_o diligence_n in_o relieve_v he_o in_o his_o distress_n when_o he_o be_v not_o able_a to_o digest_v strong_a meat_n she_o provide_v for_o he_o comfortable_a food_n of_o light_a digestion_n when_o he_o be_v so_o weak_a that_o he_o can_v go_v she_o carry_v he_o in_o her_o arm_n or_o otherwise_o support_v he_o when_o he_o be_v so_o sick_a that_o he_o fale_v down_o to_o the_o ground_n in_o a_o swoon_n she_o raise_v he_o up_o &_o never_o rest_v till_o she_o have_v recover_v life_n in_o he_o be_v this_o love_n in_o a_o natural_a mother_n then_o sure_o much_o more_o shall_v we_o find_v in_o our_o heavenly_a father_n 49.15_o esa_n 49.15_o for_o though_o a_o mother_n may_v forget_v the_o fruit_n of_o her_o womb_n yet_o will_v the_o lord_n never_o forget_v we_o as_o he_o have_v promise_v esa_n 49.15_o and_o therefore_o the_o great_a our_o weakness_n be_v in_o grace_n and_o the_o more_o grievous_a our_o sickness_n be_v through_o sin_n and_o the_o noisome_a humour_n of_o our_o corruption_n the_o more_o careful_o will_v he_o watch_v over_o we_o with_o the_o eye_n of_o his_o providence_n and_o support_v we_o with_o his_o almighty_a power_n in_o our_o great_a weakness_n the_o more_o tender_o will_v he_o pity_v we_o and_o in_o love_a compassion_n will_v provide_v for_o we_o such_o comfortable_a food_n as_o will_v be_v fit_a to_o nourish_v we_o and_o repair_v our_o decay_a strength_n when_o we_o can_v go_v he_o will_v with_o his_o almighty_a hand_n uphould_v we_o and_o when_o we_o fall_v into_o a_o dead_a trance_n
he_o will_v not_o rest_v till_o he_o have_v again_o reviue_v and_o quicken_v we_o with_o his_o holy_a spirit_n moreover_o our_o saviour_n have_v say_v 12.20_o math._n 12.20_o that_o he_o will_v not_o break_v the_o bruise_a reed_n nor_o quench_v the_o smoke_a flax_n matth._n 12.20_o but_o he_o will_v support_v our_o weakness_n with_o his_o almighty_a power_n so_o that_o though_o with_o the_o reed_n we_o be_v bear_v down_o to_o the_o ground_n with_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n tentation_n yet_o we_o shall_v be_v raise_v up_o again_o 37.24_o psal_n 37.24_o according_a to_o that_o psal_n 37.24_o though_o he_o fall_v he_o shall_v not_o be_v cast_v off_o for_o the_o lord_n put_v under_o his_o hand_n and_o he_o will_v blow_v upon_o we_o with_o the_o breath_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n till_o he_o turn_v our_o small_a smoke_n to_o a_o great_a flame_n which_o shall_v never_o be_v quench_v by_o all_o the_o malice_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n so_o matth._n 13.12_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v promise_v 13.12_o math._n 13.12_o that_o whosoever_o have_v to_o he_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v and_o he_o shall_v have_v abundance_n neither_o do_v he_o limit_v or_o define_v any_o quantity_n less_o or_o more_o but_o indefinite_o promiss_v abundant_a increase_n even_o unto_o the_o least_o so_o far_o be_v he_o from_o take_v away_o that_o which_o he_o have_v once_o bestow_v and_o whereas_o we_o through_o our_o weakness_n and_o frailness_n be_v easy_o cast_v down_o and_o fall_v away_o and_o therefore_o have_v good_a cause_n if_o we_o shall_v only_o look_v upon_o our_o infirmity_n to_o doubt_n and_o despair_n of_o perseverance_n yet_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n omnipotent_a power_n watchful_a providence_n and_o promise_v assistance_n we_o may_v confirm_v ourselves_o in_o faith_n hope_n and_o certain_a assurance_n of_o continue_v unto_o the_o end_n for_o the_o lord_n uphold_v all_o that_o be_v fall_v and_z lifteth_z up_o those_o who_o be_v already_o down_o as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v psal_n 145.14_o 145.14_o psal_n 145.14_o the_o power_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o our_o weakness_n 12.9_o 2._o cor._n 12.9_o his_o riches_n in_o our_o beggerlinesse_n his_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n in_o our_o frailness_n and_o manifold_a corruption_n and_o with_o his_o holy_a spirit_n he_o help_v our_o infirmity_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.26_o 8.26_o ro._n 8.26_o we_o have_v not_o a_o high_a priest_n which_o can_v be_v touch_v with_o the_o feel_n of_o our_o infirmity_n but_o be_v in_o all_o thing_n tempt_v in_o like_a sort_n yet_o without_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v able_a sufficient_o to_o have_v compassion_n on_o they_o that_o be_v ignorant_a and_o out_o of_o the_o way_n because_o that_o he_o also_o be_v compass_v with_o our_o infirmity_n and_o the_o apostle_n reason_v 5.2_o heb._n 4.15_o &_o 5.2_o heb._n 4.15_o and_o 5.2_o §_o sect._n 5_o second_o it_o appear_v manifest_o by_o god_n work_n example_n the_o foreman_n point_v illustrate_v by_o example_n administration_n and_o practice_v that_o he_o will_v not_o deprive_v any_o of_o that_o sanctify_a grace_n which_o he_o have_v once_o bestow_v though_o the_o measure_n thereof_o be_v never_o so_o small_a neither_o can_v we_o observe_v either_o by_o our_o read_v the_o whole_a book_n of_o god_n or_o by_o our_o own_o experience_n that_o any_o man_n have_v receive_v the_o least_o grain_n of_o true_a faith_n have_v utter_o be_v deprive_v of_o it_o and_o reject_v of_o god_n even_o the_o disciple_n themselves_o when_o they_o be_v reproove_v for_o their_o little_a faith_n be_v by_o he_o strengthen_v and_o confirm_v so_o that_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n can_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o and_o though_o satan_n endeavour_v to_o sift_v they_o as_o wheat_n yet_o christ_n intercession_n be_v more_o mighty_a to_o defend_v they_o than_o the_o devil_n to_o destroy_v they_o and_o his_o intercession_n a_o strong_a prop_n to_o uphould_v they_o than_o the_o weight_n of_o satan_n tentation_n to_o overthrow_v and_o bring_v they_o to_o ruin_n so_o he_o who_o cry_v out_o i_o believe_v lord_n help_v thou_o my_o unbelief_n though_o his_o faith_n be_v weak_a yet_o it_o perish_v not_o but_o rather_o receive_v a_o great_a increase_n yea_o he_o reject_v not_o thomas_n in_o his_o wilful_a doubt_v and_o obstinate_a incredulity_n but_o offer_v all_o occasion_n of_o confirm_v his_o weak_a faith_n and_o never_o cease_v till_o he_o have_v full_o assure_v he_o of_o his_o resurrection_n in_o a_o word_n all_o the_o saint_n of_o god_n at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o have_v have_v experience_n of_o this_o mercy_n power_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n in_o support_v their_o weakness_n uphould_v they_o in_o their_o great_a infirmity_n and_o in_o raise_v they_o when_o they_o be_v fall_v to_o the_o ground_n and_o to_o this_o end_n our_o saviour_n be_v anoint_v by_o god_n spirit_n unto_o the_o office_n of_o his_o mediation_n that_o he_o shall_v preach_v the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o poor_a heal_v the_o break_a heart_a that_o he_o shall_v preach_v deliverance_n unto_o captive_n and_o recovery_n of_o sight_n to_o the_o blind_a and_o set_v at_o liberty_n they_o that_o be_v bruise_v luk._n 4.18_o 4.18_o luk._n 4.18_o to_o this_o end_n he_o have_v familiar_a society_n with_o the_o frail_a and_o weak_a with_o those_o who_o have_v little_a faith_n that_o he_o may_v increase_v it_o and_o no_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v beget_v it_o with_o publican_n and_o sinner_n and_o man_n full_a of_o infirmity_n to_o this_o purpose_n he_o call_v such_o as_o thirst_n and_o hunger_n feel_v their_o own_o emptiness_n of_o grace_n and_o earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v fill_v and_o satisfy_v and_o such_o also_o as_o labour_v and_o be_v heavy_a lade_v with_o the_o unsupportable_a weight_n of_o their_o corruption_n promise_v that_o he_o will_v ease_v they_o last_o to_o this_o end_n he_o have_v ordain_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n not_o only_o to_o beget_v faith_n where_o it_o be_v not_o but_o to_o nourish_v and_o increase_v it_o where_o it_o be_v weak_a and_o feeble_a and_o therefore_o though_o our_o faith_n be_v never_o so_o weak_a and_o small_a let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o that_o therefore_o it_o shall_v be_v overthrow_v and_o turn_v into_o infidelity_n for_o the_o lord_n have_v assure_v we_o both_o by_o his_o gracious_a promise_n in_o his_o word_n and_o also_o by_o the_o performance_n thereof_o in_o his_o work_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o this_o day_n that_o where_o he_o have_v give_v the_o least_o measure_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o other_o sanctify_a grace_n there_o he_o will_v also_o increase_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v it_o and_o where_o he_o have_v begin_v any_o good_a work_n there_o he_o will_v finish_v and_o perfect_v it_o notwithstanding_o our_o frail_a weakness_n and_o the_o forcible_a violence_n of_o all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n chap._n xlviii_o of_o our_o justification_n and_o so_o much_o concern_v those_o tentation_n of_o satan_n which_o he_o sugge_v to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v frustrate_v our_o effectual_a call_n §_o sect._n 1_o 8.30_o of_o the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n rom._n 8.30_o the_o next_o subordinate_a cause_n and_o mean_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v our_o justification_n for_o whosoever_o the_o lord_n effectual_o call_v those_o also_o he_o justifi_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.30_o in_o speak_v whereof_o i_o will_v first_o show_v what_o it_o be_v and_o afterward_o answer_v such_o tentation_n of_o satan_n as_o he_o sugge_v into_o our_o mind_n to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v infringe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n and_o make_v it_o vain_a and_o unprofitable_a unto_o us._n for_o the_o first_o justification_n be_v a_o action_n orworke_n of_o the_o whole_a trinity_n the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n whereby_o god_n gracious_o and_o free_o impute_v unto_o every_o faithful_a man_n the_o righteousness_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n the_o mediator_n do_v accept_v of_o he_o and_o pronounce_v he_o to_o be_v just_a and_o righteous_a for_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o name_n and_o salvation_n of_o the_o believer_n the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n be_v god_n alone_o as_o appear_v by_o manifest_a testimony_n esa_n 43.25_o ay_o 16.8_o esa_n 43.25_o ezec._n 16.8_o even_o i_o be_o he_o that_o put_v away_o thy_o iniquity_n for_o my_o own_o sake_n and_o will_v not_o remember_v thy_o sin_n so_o ezech._n 16.8_o the_o lord_n thus_o speak_v to_o his_o church_n and_o people_n i_o spread_v my_o skirt_n over_o thou_o and_o cover_v thy_o filthiness_n 9_o then_o i_o wash_v thou_o with_o water_n yea_o i_o wash_v away_o thy_o blood_n from_o thou_o and_o anoint_v thou_o with_o oil_n 10._o 51.4_o rom._n 4.5_o and_o 8.33_o psal_n 51.4_o i_o clothe_v thou_o with_o broydred_a work_n etc._n etc._n whereby_o he_o signify_v
his_o justification_n so_o rom._n 4.2_o 4.2_o rom._n 4.2_o if_o abraham_n be_v justify_v by_o work_n he_o have_v wherein_o to_o rejoice_v but_o not_o with_o god_n and_o ver_fw-la 3._o 3.4_o and_o ver_fw-la 3.4_o abraham_n believe_v god_n and_o it_o be_v count_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n 4._o now_o to_o he_o that_o work_v the_o wage_n be_v not_o count_v by_o favour_n but_o by_o debt_n 5._o but_o to_o he_o that_o work_v not_o but_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o justifi_v the_o ungodly_a his_o faith_n be_v count_v for_o righteousness_n §_o sect._n 6_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n which_o manifest_o prove_v that_o we_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o our_o work_n 34._o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o w●_n be_v not_o justify_v by_o our_o work_n rom._n 8.1.33_o 34._o the_o reason_n which_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o the_o same_o purpose_n be_v exceed_v many_o but_o i_o will_v brief_o touch_v some_o few_o only_a first_o justification_n be_v manifest_o oppose_v to_o condemnation_n &_o they_o be_v both_o judicial_a word_n use_v in_o civil_a court_n &_o therefore_o to_o be_v understand_v both_o judicial_o &_o not_o after_o a_o diverse_a manner_n but_o to_o condenne_n signify_v not_o to_o infuse_v any_o fault_n or_o crime_n in_o to_o the_o person_n conden_v but_o to_o pronounce_v he_o guilty_a &_o faulty_a and_o therefore_o to_o justify_v signify_v not_o to_o infuse_v righteousness_n into_o the_o person_n justify_v but_o to_o declare_v pronounce_v &_o repute_v he_o as_o just_a &_o righteous_a second_o by_o the_o same_o mean_n whereby_o we_o obtain_v the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n we_o be_v also_o justify_v &_o make_v righteous_a but_o we_o obtain_v the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n not_o for_o our_o work_n or_o inhaerent_a righteousness_n or_o any_o virtue_n that_o be_v in_o ourselves_o but_o by_o and_o for_o the_o alone_a merit_n obedience_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o christ_n apprehend_v and_o apply_v unto_o we_o by_o a_o lively_a faith_n as_o appear_v rom._n 3.25_o and_o therefore_o by_o this_o mean_n alone_o we_o be_v also_o justify_v 3.25_o rom._n 3.25_o three_o whosoever_o be_v justify_v free_o by_o grace_n they_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o their_o own_o merit_n work_n or_o inhaerent_a righteousness_n 3.23.24_o ronvere_n 3.23.24_o but_o the_o scripture_n testify_v that_o all_o the_o faithful_a be_v justify_v free_o by_o god_n grace_n as_o appeareth_z rom._n 3.23.24_o all_o have_v sin_v and_o be_v deprive_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 2.8_o eph._n 1.7_o &_o 2.8_o and_o be_v justify_v free_o by_o his_o grace_n through_o the_o redemption_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n so_o eph._n 1.7_o by_o who_o we_o have_v redemption_n through_o his_o blood_n even_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n according_a to_o his_o rich_a grace_n 3.5.7_o tit._n 3.5.7_o and_o 2.8_o by_o grace_n be_v you_o save_v through_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 and_o tit._n 3._o not_o by_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n which_o we_o have_v do_v but_o according_a to_o his_o mercy_n he_o save_v we_o etc._n etc._n 7._o that_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o his_o grace_n shall_v be_v make_v heir_n according_a to_o hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o therefore_o none_o be_v justify_v by_o their_o own_o merit_n work_n or_o inhaerent_a righteousness_n last_o the_o apostle_n paul_n himself_o gather_v many_o absurdity_n which_o will_v follow_v this_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n first_o that_o our_o faith_n shall_v be_v vain_a and_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n void_a rom._n 4.14_o 4.14_o rom._n 4.14_o second_o that_o christ_n jesus_n shall_v die_v in_o vain_a if_o we_o have_v righteousness_n by_o the_o law_n gal._n 2.21_o 2.21_o gal._n 2.21_o three_o that_o we_o shall_v have_v cause_n of_o boast_v and_o glory_v in_o ourselves_o eph._n 2.9_o 2.9_o eph._n 2.9_o for_o if_o a_o man_n be_v justify_v by_o his_o own_o inhaerent_a righteousness_n he_o shall_v have_v whereof_o to_o glory_v and_o so_o god_n shall_v be_v rob_v of_o the_o whole_a praise_n of_o our_o salvation_n rom._n 4.2_o 4.2_o rom._n 4.2_o but_o the_o lord_n of_o purpose_n have_v justify_v we_o free_o of_o his_o grace_n and_o not_o for_o our_o work_n and_o inha_n rend_v righteousness_n that_o all_o glory_v in_o ourselves_o may_v be_v exclude_v as_o appear_v rom._n 3.27_o eph_n 2.9_o 2.9_o rom._n 3.27_o eph._n 2.9_o four_o it_o will_v follow_v hereupon_o that_o we_o shall_v still_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n which_o be_v denounce_v against_o all_o who_o continue_v not_o in_o all_o that_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o law_n to_o do_v they_o as_o the_o apostle_n reason_v gal._n 3.10_o 3.10_o gal._n 3.10_o five_o that_o the_o obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v maim_v and_o imperfect_a unless_o it_o be_v patch_v up_o with_o our_o own_o righteousness_n the_o contrary_a whereof_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v heb._n 7.25_o namely_o that_o he_o be_v able_a perfect_o to_o save_v all_o they_o who_o come_v unto_o god_n by_o he_o last_o 7.25_o heb._n 7.25_o hereupon_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o we_o shall_v continual_o waver_v in_o doubt_v in_o respect_n of_o our_o manifold_a corruption_n and_o imperfect_a righteousness_n and_o shall_v have_v our_o soul_n deprive_v of_o that_o peace_n of_o conscience_n which_o follow_v justification_n by_o faith_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 5.1_o 5.1_o rom._n 5.1_o last_o with_o the_o jew_n we_o shall_v bring_v ourselves_o into_o most_o certain_a danger_n of_o be_v reject_v and_o cast_v of_o from_o be_v the_o people_n and_o church_n of_o god_n if_o with_o they_o we_o go_v about_o to_o establish_v our_o own_o righteousness_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n not_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n 10.4.6_o rom._n 10.4.6_o which_o be_v of_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 10.4.6_o chap._n l._n that_o faith_n alone_o justifi_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o much_o concern_v the_o first_o point_n justifi_v how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v that_o faith_n alone_o justifi_v namely_o that_o we_o be_v nor_o justify_v by_o work_n the_o second_o be_v that_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n alone_o whereby_o we_o be_v not_o to_o understand_v that_o faith_n by_o it_o own_o virtue_n or_o as_o it_o be_v a_o faculty_n habit_n work_n or_o action_n in_o we_o do_v justify_v we_o but_o as_o it_o be_v the_o alone_a instrument_n whereby_o we_o do_v apprehend_v &_o apply_v unto_o we_o christ_n jesus_n his_o righteousness_n &_o obedience_n by_o which_o only_a righteousness_n which_o be_v out_o of_o ourselves_o in_o christ_n as_o the_o proper_a subject_n thereof_o be_v offer_v in_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o apply_v by_o faith_n we_o be_v justify_v in_o god_n sight_n 2.9_o phil._n 2.9_o as_o appeareth_z phil._n 2.9_o second_o whereas_o we_o say_v that_o faith_n alone_o justifi_v we_o do_v not_o understand_v such_o a_o faith_n as_o be_v alone_o without_o work_n charity_n and_o other_o sanctify_a grace_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o imaginary_a dead_a and_o but_o as_o it_o be_v a_o carcase_n of_o faith_n which_o breathe_v not_o but_o that_o among_o all_o other_o grace_n virtue_n &_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n alone_o and_o not_o any_o of_o they_o be_v the_o instrument_n whereby_o we_o apply_v christ_n jesus_n unto_o we_o who_o be_v thus_o apply_v do_v justify_v us._n justification_n that_o though_o work_n do_v not_o justify_v we_o yet_o they_o be_v necessary_o require_v as_o fruit_n of_o our_o justification_n otherwise_o we_o affirm_v that_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o even_o good_a work_n which_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o they_o all_o do_v necessary_o accompany_v our_o justification_n not_o as_o instrument_n or_o cause_n thereof_o but_o as_o inseparable_a effect_n and_o fruit_n thereof_o so_o that_o howsoever_o we_o exclude_v work_n from_o the_o act_n of_o justify_v yet_o we_o necessary_o require_v they_o in_o the_o subject_n or_o person_n justify_v we_o affirm_v that_o faith_n alone_o justifi_v but_o we_o deny_v that_o such_o a_o faith_n which_o be_v alone_o do_v justify_v we_o we_o maintain_v that_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n alone_o without_o work_n but_o with_o all_o we_o affirm_v that_o faith_n which_o be_v without_o work_n do_v not_o justify_v we_o as_o be_v dead_a false_a and_o imaginary_a this_o may_v be_v make_v plain_a by_o some_o similitude_n to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o honest_a man_n there_o be_v necessary_o require_v honest_a action_n not_o as_o cause_v but_o as_o effect_n neither_o be_v his_o honest_a action_n the_o cause_n of_o his_o honesty_n but_o his_o honesty_n the_o cause_n of_o his_o honest_a action_n to_o a_o live_a man_n there_o be_v necessary_o require_v as_o well_o breathe_v which_o be_v a_o action_n or_o effect_n
know_v that_o this_o word_n impute_v or_o imputation_n be_v take_v two_o way_n in_o the_o scripture_n first_o when_o as_o the_o thing_n impute_v be_v in_o ourselves_o and_o so_o it_o be_v say_v psal_n 106.31_o 5.13_o psal_n 106.31_o rom._n 5.13_o that_o the_o fact_n of_o phinees_n be_v impute_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n so_o rom._n 5.13_o but_o sin_n be_v not_o impute_v while_o there_o be_v no_o law_n second_o when_o as_o the_o thing_n impute_v be_v out_o of_o ourselves_o and_o of_o this_o 18.27_o levit._fw-la 17.4_o numb_a 18.27_o mention_n be_v make_v levit._n 17.4_o and_o numb_a 18.27_o and_o in_o this_o latter_a sense_n the_o word_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n and_o not_o in_o the_o former_a for_o our_o sin_n be_v impute_v unto_o christ_n when_o he_o offer_v himself_o to_o stand_v in_o our_o place_n to_o pay_v our_o debt_n and_o to_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o father_n justice_n by_o suffer_v those_o punishment_n which_o we_o by_o our_o sin_n have_v deserve_v in_o which_o respect_n the_o scripture_n say_v that_o he_o be_v repute_v among_o the_o wicked_a 5.21_o mar._n 15.28_o 2._o cor._n 5.21_o mar._n 15.28_o and_o that_o he_o be_v make_v sin_n for_o we_o 2._o cor._n 5.21_o not_o by_o infusion_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o corruption_n into_o his_o most_o holy_a nature_n but_o by_o imputation_n only_o and_o contrariwise_o we_o be_v make_v just_a or_o justify_v not_o by_o infusion_n of_o inherent_a righteousness_n into_o we_o but_o by_o imputation_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n when_o as_o believe_v in_o he_o notwithstanding_o that_o our_o nature_n be_v still_o defile_v with_o sin_n and_o manifold_a corruption_n through_o the_o mere_a mercy_n and_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n for_o the_o merit_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n we_o be_v repute_v just_a as_o though_o we_o have_v never_o commit_v sin_n and_o have_v perform_v perfect_a obedience_n unto_o god_n commandment_n and_o so_o adjudge_v heir_n of_o everlasting_a life_n so_o that_o this_o imputation_n consist_v not_o in_o god_n repute_v of_o we_o just_a in_o respect_n of_o our_o inherent_a righteousness_n infuse_v into_o we_o but_o in_o the_o free_a mercy_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o for_o christ_n his_o sake_n cover_v our_o sin_n which_o be_v indeed_o inherent_a in_o we_o so_o as_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v impute_v unto_o we_o for_o our_o condemnation_n &_o impute_v unto_o we_o the_o righteousness_n which_o be_v not_o in_o we_o but_o in_o christ_n wherewith_o be_v full_o possess_v he_o repute_v of_o we_o as_o most_o innocent_a and_o perfect_o righteous_a §_o sect._n 6_o now_o that_o imputation_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o this_o latter_a sense_n 4.4.5_o the_o former_a point_n prove_v by_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n rom._n 4.4.5_o it_o be_v most_o manifest_a where_o the_o apostle_n paul_n set_v down_o the_o word_n in_o both_o these_o sense_n deny_v that_o in_o this_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o former_a and_o affirm_v it_o of_o the_o latter_a to_o he_o say_v he_o that_o work_v the_o wage_n be_v not_o impute_v by_o favour_n but_o by_o debt_n namely_o because_o he_o have_v merit_v it_o by_o his_o own_o righteousness_n 5._o but_o to_o he_o that_o work_v not_o but_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o justifi_v the_o ungodly_a his_o faith_n be_v count_v or_o impute_v for_o righteousness_n even_o as_o david_n declare_v the_o blessedness_n of_o the_o man_n unto_o who_o god_n impute_v righteousness_n without_o work_n in_o which_o word_n he_o plain_o show_v that_o there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o imputation_n which_o have_v his_o ground_n or_o foundation_n in_o work_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n and_o this_o he_o affirm_v be_v not_o of_o grace_n and_o that_o there_o be_v another_o kind_n of_o imputation_n which_o have_v not_o it_o ground_n and_o foundation_n in_o he_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v but_o in_o the_o free_a mercy_n of_o god_n justify_v the_o wicked_a without_o his_o work_n and_o therefore_o not_o only_o destitute_a of_o inherent_a righteousness_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v justify_v but_o also_o guilty_a of_o inherent_a corruption_n and_o actual_a transgression_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v condemn_v if_o god_n shall_v enter_v into_o judgement_n with_o he_o so_o also_o he_o plain_o affirm_v eph._n 2.8_o that_o we_o be_v save_v by_o grace_n through_o faith_n 2.8_o eph._n 2.8_o and_o that_o not_o of_o ourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n 9_o not_o of_o work_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v boast_v himself_o §_o sect._n 7_o second_o abraham_n the_o former_a point_n prove_v by_o the_o example_n of_o abraham_n this_o may_v be_v prove_v by_o the_o example_n of_o abraham_n upon_o which_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o former_a place_n insi_v for_o by_o that_o impute_a righteousness_n whereby_o he_o be_v justify_v we_o be_v also_o justify_v but_o the_o apostle_n plain_o affirm_v that_o this_o imputation_n be_v not_o of_o abraham_n inherent_a righteousness_n with_o the_o which_o notwithstanding_o he_o be_v plentiful_o endue_v for_o as_o he_o say_v if_o abraham_n be_v justify_v by_o work_n he_o have_v wherein_o to_o rejoice_v but_o not_o in_o god_n but_o that_o abraham_n believe_v in_o god_n and_o this_o be_v count_v to_o he_o for_o righteousness_n 4.2.3_o rom._n 4.2.3_o as_o it_o be_v rom._n 4.2.3_o and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o our_o work_n and_o inherent_a righteousness_n but_o by_o the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n impute_v unto_o us._n §_o sect._n 8_o three_o that_o righteousness_n which_o justifi_v we_o 3.2_o that_o perfect_a righteousness_n be_v require_v to_o our_o justification_n jam._n 3.2_o must_v consist_v in_o perfect_a obedience_n and_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o that_o exact_a manner_n and_o measure_n which_o god_n justice_n do_v require_v but_o this_o can_v possible_o be_v do_v by_o any_o righteousness_n which_o be_v in_o we_o which_o be_v most_o imperfect_a and_o mingle_v with_o many_o sin_n and_o corruption_n for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o sin_v all_o as_o it_o be_v jam._n 3.2_o and_o he_o that_o say_v he_o have_v no_o sin_n be_v a_o liar_n as_o john_n speak_v 1._o ep_n 1.8_o and_o our_o best_a righteousness_n be_v like_o a_o pollute_a cloth_n 64.6_o 1._o joh._n 1.8_o esa_n 64.6_o as_o it_o be_v esa_n 64.6_o but_o by_o the_o alone_a righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v impute_v unto_o we_o be_v sufficient_a to_o answer_v and_o satisfy_v god_n exact_a and_o most_o perfect_a justice_n that_o our_o righteousness_n whereby_o we_o be_v to_o be_v justify_v must_v be_v perfect_a 3.31_o rom._n 3.31_o and_o such_o as_o the_o law_n and_o exact_a justice_n of_o god_n require_v it_o appear_v rom._n 3.31_o whereas_o the_o apostle_n plain_o affirm_v that_o when_o faith_n be_v impute_v unto_o righteousness_n 2.10_o jam._n 2.10_o the_o law_n be_v not_o make_v void_a but_o rather_o confirm_v and_o fulfil_v do_v we_o then_o say_v he_o make_v the_o law_n of_o none_o effect_v through_o faith_n god_n forbid_v yea_o we_o establish_v the_o law_n but_o this_o can_v be_v do_v by_o our_o righteousness_n which_o be_v imperfect_a and_o mingle_v with_o innumerable_a sin_n but_o by_o the_o alone_a most_o perfect_a righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n impute_v unto_o us._n again_o the_o lord_n have_v command_v and_o strait_o charge_v that_o in_o our_o civil_a judgement_n the_o righteous_a shall_v be_v justify_v 25.1_o deut._n 25.1_o and_o the_o wicked_a condemn_v deut._n 25.1_o and_o the_o wise_a man_n say_v that_o he_o that_o justifi_v the_o wicked_a 17.15_o pro._n 17.15_o and_o he_o that_o condemn_v the_o just_a even_o they_o both_o be_v abomination_n unto_o the_o lord_n pro._n 17.15_o and_o the_o prophet_n esay_n denounce_v a_o woe_n against_o they_o which_o commit_v this_o sin_n 5.23_o esa_n 5.23_o chap._n 5._o vers_fw-la 23._o now_o shall_v the_o lord_n require_v this_o of_o we_o and_o shall_v we_o think_v that_o he_o who_o will_n be_v the_o rule_n of_o justice_n will_v justify_v any_o who_o righteousness_n be_v imperfect_a and_o not_o according_a to_o his_o law_n no_o he_o have_v tell_v we_o that_o it_o be_v more_o easy_a that_o heaven_n and_o earth_n shall_v pass_v away_o 16.17_o luk._n 16.17_o than_o that_o one_o title_n of_o the_o law_n shall_v fall_v unaccomplish_v luk._n 16.17_o and_o therefore_o let_v we_o not_o trust_v unto_o our_o own_o imperfect_a righteousness_n but_o whole_o rest_v upon_o the_o alone_a righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n for_o our_o justification_n for_o he_o be_v the_o lord_n our_o righteousness_n 45.24_o jere._n 23.6_o esa_n 45.24_o jere._n 23.6_o in_o he_o we_o have_v righteousness_n and_o strength_n esa_n 45.24_o he_o be_v make_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n wisdom_n righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n 1._o cor._n 1.30_o 1.30_o
straggle_a soldier_n who_o depart_v from_o the_o army_n and_o range_v abroad_o to_o forage_v or_o get_v some_o booty_n be_v easy_o vanquish_v by_o their_o enemy_n so_o those_o who_o depart_v and_o make_v a_o apostasy_n from_o god_n church_n to_o gain_v or_o retain_v their_o pleasure_n and_o worldly_a preferment_n be_v easy_o overthrow_v fall_v into_o satan_n ambushment_n and_o second_o every_o one_o be_v to_o contain_v himself_o within_o the_o limit_n of_o his_o special_a vocation_n and_o to_o keep_v his_o peculiar_a stand_v appoint_v he_o by_o god_n for_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o pernicious_a to_o a_o army_n than_o disorder_n when_o as_o some_o intrude_v themselves_o into_o other_o place_n as_o when_o the_o common_a soldier_n will_v be_v a_o officer_n the_o lieutenant_n captain_n and_o the_o captain_n general_n of_o the_o army_n so_o nothing_o be_v more_o hurtful_a to_o the_o church_n militant_a than_o when_o disorderly_a one_o usurp_v another_o place_n and_o office_n as_o when_o the_o minister_n will_v be_v magistrate_n and_o the_o magistrate_n minister_n and_o when_o the_o common_a people_n usurp_v the_o office_n of_o they_o both_o second_o when_o as_o he_o bid_v we_o stand_v in_o our_o place_n he_o restrain_v we_o from_o two_o extreme_n the_o one_o that_o we_o do_v not_o wilful_o thrust_v ourselves_o into_o the_o combat_n of_o temptation_n before_o we_o be_v assault_v and_o so_o as_o it_o be_v run_v out_o of_o our_o stand_n to_o seek_v a_o enemy_n and_o second_o that_o when_o we_o be_v assault_v we_o do_v not_o flee_v away_o but_o stand_v to_o it_o valiant_o and_o endure_v the_o violence_n of_o the_o assailant_n last_o he_o exhort_v we_o to_o watchfulness_n and_o painful_a diligence_n for_o we_o must_v not_o drowsy_o and_o secure_o lay_v we_o down_o and_o give_v ourselves_o to_o sleep_v nor_o yet_o sit_v idle_o as_o though_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o we_o be_v to_o stand_v upon_o our_o guard_n and_o to_o watch_v continual_o that_o we_o may_v always_o be_v in_o readiness_n to_o withstand_v the_o assault_n of_o our_o enemy_n otherwise_o if_o we_o sleep_v in_o security_n they_o will_v sudden_o set_v upon_o we_o and_o surprise_v we_o at_o unaware_o chap._n x._o of_o the_o particular_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a armour_n and_o first_o of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o the_o apostle_n have_v take_v away_o all_o reckless_a security_n and_o foole-hardines_n and_o also_o strengthen_v we_o with_o true_a valour_n and_o christian_a fortitude_n verity_n of_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n in_o the_o next_o place_n he_o describe_v the_o armour_n of_o god_n which_o we_o be_v to_o buckle_v unto_o us._n where_o first_o we_o be_v general_o to_o observe_v that_o we_o be_v not_o curious_o and_o scrupulous_o to_o search_v out_o the_o reason_n why_o such_o and_o such_o virtue_n be_v liken_v to_o these_o or_o those_o piece_n of_o armour_n as_o for_o example_n why_o he_o call_v truth_n a_o girdle_n righteousness_n a_o breastplate_n faith_n a_o shield_n etc._n etc._n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o apostle_n purpose_v so_o exact_o to_o fit_v the_o similitude_n as_o may_v appear_v 1._o thess_n 5.8_o where_o he_o indifferent_o ascribe_v the_o name_n of_o breastplate_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o charity_n by_o which_o here_o he_o understand_v righteousness_n but_o only_o brief_o and_o general_o to_o show_v what_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v most_o necessary_a for_o a_o christian_a wherewith_o he_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o resist_v his_o spiritual_a enemy_n continue_v his_o former_a allegory_n take_v from_o war_n but_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o armour_n itself_o which_o be_v both_o defensive_a and_o offensive_a the_o first_o part_n be_v the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n the_o word_n here_o use_v signify_v a_o broad_a stud_a belt_n use_v in_o war_n in_o ancient_a time_n wherewith_o the_o joint_n of_o the_o breastplate_n and_o that_o armour_n which_o defend_v the_o belly_n loin_n and_o thigh_n be_v cover_v and_o by_o this_o truth_n be_v resemble_v whereby_o some_o understand_v the_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o we_o profess_v other_o understand_v hereby_o truth_n and_o uprightness_n of_o heart_n or_o the_o integrity_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n whereby_o we_o perform_v all_o duty_n of_o religion_n belong_v to_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n in_o simplicity_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n but_o because_o both_o be_v notable_a and_o necessary_a part_n of_o our_o christian_a armour_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o we_o may_v not_o take_v it_o in_o both_o sense_n verity_n what_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v by_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n see_v the_o apostle_n do_v of_o purpose_n set_v down_o under_o these_o metaphorical_a word_n the_o chief_a virtue_n and_o grace_n wherewith_o we_o be_v to_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n first_o therefore_o here_o be_v require_v truth_n of_o our_o religion_n which_o we_o profess_v and_o second_o that_o we_o profess_v it_o true_o that_o be_v with_o upright_o &_o simple_a heart_n §_o sect._n 2_o for_o the_o first_o truth_n that_o our_o religion_n must_v be_v ground_v on_o god_n truth_n it_o be_v the_o foundation_n upon_o which_o all_o other_o duty_n to_o god_n or_o man_n be_v to_o be_v build_v for_o if_o they_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o god_n truth_n but_o devise_v by_o man_n brain_n they_o be_v but_o humane_a dotage_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o accept_v neither_o be_v it_o to_o any_o purpose_n that_o we_o show_v ourselves_o earnest_a and_o forward_a in_o religion_n unless_o it_o be_v true_a and_o consonant_a to_o god_n word_n for_o as_o the_o fast_o that_o those_o travail_n which_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n the_o further_o they_o be_v from_o their_o journey_n end_n so_o the_o more_o earnest_a and_o forward_a that_o we_o be_v in_o travail_v the_o by-path_n of_o error_n the_o further_o we_o be_v from_o god_n kingdom_n and_o therefore_o satan_n care_v not_o great_o whether_o we_o be_v of_o no_o religion_n or_o of_o a_o false_a religion_n whether_o we_o worship_v no_o god_n at_o all_o or_o a_o false_a god_n or_o at_o least_o the_o true_a god_n after_o a_o false_a manner_n whether_o we_o perform_v no_o duty_n unto_o god_n or_o such_o as_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o god_n truth_n be_v abominable_a unto_o he_o first_o then_o we_o must_v contain_v all_o our_o action_n within_o the_o compass_n of_o god_n word_n and_o whatsoever_o we_o profess_v and_o practice_v it_o must_v have_v his_o ground_n and_o warrant_v from_o this_o truth_n if_o we_o will_v be_v account_v true_a member_n of_o god_n militant_a church_n 3.15_o 1._o tim_n 3.15_o which_o be_v therefore_o call_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1._o tim._n 3.15_o because_o contemn_v all_o error_n and_o doctrine_n of_o man_n it_o faithful_o keep_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n word_n and_o as_o soldier_n be_v gird_v about_o with_o that_o strong_a and_o broad_a stud_a belt_n wherewith_o their_o loin_n be_v strengthen_v and_o so_o enable_v to_o sustain_v the_o fight_n without_o weariness_n so_o we_o be_v to_o compass_v ourselves_o about_o with_o truth_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v strengthen_v when_o as_o we_o know_v that_o we_o fight_v in_o a_o just_a quarrel_n neither_o shall_v we_o easy_o be_v deceive_v with_o satan_n temptation_n and_o false_a suggestion_n if_o we_o be_v gird_v about_o with_o the_o girdle_n of_o verity_n and_o hereby_o appear_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o piece_n of_o armour_n for_o see_v satan_n be_v a_o liar_n from_o the_o beginning_n it_o behoove_v we_o to_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o truth_n that_o the_o bright_a beam_n thereof_o may_v discover_v and_o disperse_v all_o the_o foggy_a mist_n of_o satan_n error_n and_o lie_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a that_o we_o profess_v the_o truth_n heart_n that_o we_o must_v profess_v the_o truth_n in_o truth_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o truth_n that_o be_v in_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n without_o all_o hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulation_n for_o how_o glorious_a soever_o our_o profession_n even_o of_o the_o true_a religion_n be_v before_o man_n yet_o it_o be_v abominable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o truth_n and_o from_o a_o upright_o heart_n but_o counterfeit_n and_o hypocritical_a whatsoever_o duty_n and_o good_a work_n we_o perform_v though_o never_o so_o excellent_a in_o themselves_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o acceptable_a in_o god_n sight_n if_o they_o be_v not_o join_v with_o integrity_n and_o simplicity_n for_o example_n prayer_n be_v a_o notable_a part_n of_o god_n worship_n but_o if_o we_o do_v not_o call_v upon_o god_n in_o truth_n but_o with_o feign_a and_o deceitful_a lip_n that_o we_o may_v have_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n 6._o
to_o seek_v we_o while_o we_o be_v lose_v and_o spend_v three_o and_o thirty_o year_n in_o follow_v and_o find_v we_o who_o be_v wander_v and_o stray_a sheep_n cry_v and_o call_v unto_o we_o even_o till_o he_o become_v hoarse_a with_o loud_a cry_n and_o pass_v through_o the_o thorny_a way_n of_o trouble_n and_o persecution_n till_o he_o have_v shed_v his_o precious_a blood_n and_o final_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o our_o sake_n shall_v now_o turn_v away_o his_o eye_n and_o stop_v his_o ear_n when_o his_o sheep_n desire_v to_o follow_v he_o and_o earnest_o implore_v his_o help_n find_v their_o own_o weakness_n and_o unabilitie_n to_o come_v so_o swift_o to_o he_o as_o they_o shall_v the_o lord_n be_v our_o saviour_n and_o redeemer_n who_o have_v not_o spare_v his_o own_o precious_a blood_n but_o have_v give_v it_o to_o his_o father_n as_o the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n that_o we_o may_v be_v deliver_v out_o of_o the_o captivity_n of_o the_o devil_n in_o which_o we_o be_v detain_v as_o it_o be_v 1._o tim._n 2.6_o 2.6_o 1._o tim._n 2.6_o if_o therefore_o we_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o our_o captivity_n and_o a_o desire_n to_o be_v set_v at_o liberty_n be_v weary_a of_o our_o misery_n and_o unwilling_a to_o stay_v any_o long_o in_o this_o cruel_a bondage_n our_o saviour_n christ_n will_v redeem_v we_o for_o to_o this_o end_n he_o come_v into_o the_o world_n 4.18_o luk._n 4.18_o as_o appear_v luk._n 4.18_o and_o though_o like_v unto_o poor_a captive_n who_o have_v long_a time_n be_v clog_v with_o heavy_a bolt_n and_o gall_v with_o strong_a chain_n have_v their_o limb_n so_o benumb_v and_o sore_a that_o they_o can_v go_v after_o they_o be_v free_v out_o of_o prison_n so_o we_o after_o we_o have_v long_o be_v detain_v in_o satan_n captivity_n fetter_v with_o chain_n of_o sin_n and_o clog_v with_o the_o heavy_a bolt_n of_o our_o corruption_n be_v so_o gall_v and_o benumb_v that_o we_o can_v swift_o follow_v christ_n our_o redeemer_n in_o the_o way_n of_o righteousness_n unto_o his_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n but_o halt_v and_o stumble_v every_o step_n through_o our_o infirmity_n and_o weakness_n yet_o if_o we_o have_v a_o earnest_a desire_n of_o come_v after_o he_o then_o sure_o he_o that_o have_v give_v this_o inestimable_a price_n for_o our_o redemption_n will_v not_o now_o leave_v we_o in_o the_o hand_n of_o he_o and_o our_o enemy_n but_o will_v feed_v we_o with_o the_o food_n of_o his_o word_n and_o sacrament_n &_o strengthen_v and_o support_v we_o with_o his_o holy_a spirit_n enable_v we_o with_o the_o grace_n thereof_o to_o follow_v his_o step_n till_o have_v obtain_v full_a liberty_n we_o arrive_v at_o his_o kingdom_n of_o everlasting_a glory_n §_o sect._n 8_o last_o enemy_n that_o these_o be_v christ_n soldier_n who_o have_v a_o desire_n of_o overcome_v their_o spiritual_a enemy_n that_o i_o may_v fit_v the_o similitude_n to_o the_o spiritual_a conflict_n whereof_o we_o speak_v if_o we_o have_v a_o earnest_a desire_n of_o overcome_v our_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o withstand_v their_o temptation_n whereby_o they_o labour_v to_o draw_v we_o to_o sin_n we_o may_v be_v assure_v we_o be_v christ_n soldier_n how_o weak_o soever_o we_o fight_v when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o encounter_n for_o though_o a_o soldier_n through_o sickness_n be_v so_o enfeeble_v that_o he_o can_v wield_v his_o weapon_n against_o the_o enemy_n yet_o if_o he_o march_v forward_o and_o show_v a_o courageous_a heart_n and_o earnest_a desire_n to_o overcome_v it_o will_v hereby_o plain_o appear_v that_o he_o be_v faithful_a to_o his_o captain_n and_o therefore_o he_o shall_v receive_v his_o pay_n though_o at_o the_o first_o onset_n his_o limb_n shall_v faint_v under_o he_o and_o so_o if_o through_o sin_n we_o have_v our_o spiritual_a man_n so_o weaken_v that_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o faint_v at_o the_o first_o encounter_n with_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n yet_o if_o we_o march_v under_o christ_n standard_n and_o fight_v the_o battle_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n have_v a_o earnest_n desire_v even_o above_o our_o strength_n to_o overcome_v our_o enemy_n sure_o christ_n our_o grand_a captain_n will_v acknowledge_v we_o for_o his_o soldier_n and_o will_v give_v we_o our_o pay_n even_o a_o crown_n of_o victory_n and_o see_v his_o power_n be_v omnipotent_a and_o his_o love_n incomprehensible_a we_o may_v make_v sure_a account_n that_o if_o in_o the_o fight_n we_o receive_v a_o foil_n he_o will_v stand_v over_o we_o to_o defend_v we_o with_o the_o shield_n of_o his_o providence_n and_o raise_v we_o up_o again_o yea_o if_o we_o be_v take_v prisoner_n and_o lead_v away_o captive_a by_o sin_n and_o satan_n he_o will_v rescue_v and_o deliver_v us._n there_o be_v no_o discredit_n accrew_v to_o a_o soldier_n by_o receive_v wound_n or_o by_o be_v by_o unresistable_a violence_n take_v prisoner_n nay_o rather_o it_o argue_v his_o valour_n and_o show_v that_o the_o invincible_a courage_n of_o his_o mind_n do_v far_o surpass_v the_o weak_a force_n of_o his_o body_n but_o rather_o hereby_o be_v a_o soldier_n disgrace_v if_o either_o he_o dare_v not_o march_v into_o the_o field_n or_o be_v enter_v the_o battle_n do_v shameful_o flee_v away_o or_o cowardly_o yield_v unto_o the_o enemy_n so_o in_o this_o spiritual_a warfare_n it_o be_v no_o dishonour_n to_o receive_v foil_n and_o wound_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n for_o the_o most_o valiant_a soldier_n that_o ever_o fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n have_v sustain_v the_o like_a nay_o if_o in_o the_o fight_n they_o be_v take_v prisoner_n yet_o so_o they_o resist_v to_o the_o uttermost_a of_o their_o power_n and_o show_v a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o be_v out_o of_o the_o captivity_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n this_o be_v acceptable_a to_o their_o captain_n christ_n and_o he_o will_v in_o pity_n and_o compassion_n restore_v they_o to_o liberty_n but_o if_o rather_o than_o they_o will_v endure_v the_o danger_n of_o the_o fight_n they_o profess_v themselves_o friend_n to_o sin_n and_o satan_n or_o if_o have_v profess_v themselves_o christ_n soldier_n they_o at_o the_o first_o encounter_n of_o their_o spiritual_a enemy_n tempt_v they_o to_o any_o sin_n do_v forsake_v christ_n standard_n shameful_o or_o cowardly_o yield_v to_o sin_n and_o satan_n voluntary_o live_v in_o their_o slavery_n without_o desire_n of_o liberty_n then_o either_o they_o show_v themselves_o notable_a coward_n worthy_a to_o be_v casser_v out_o of_o god_n camp_n or_o traitorous_a rebel_n who_o though_o outward_o they_o make_v a_o profession_n that_o they_o be_v christ_n soldier_n yet_o in_o heart_n they_o desire_v to_o serve_v satan_n §_o sect._n 9_o here_o therefore_o be_v encouragement_n for_o the_o weak_a christian_a who_o be_v discourage_v and_o ashamed_a to_o look_v his_o redeemer_n jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o face_n because_o of_o the_o manifold_a foil_n which_o he_o receive_v in_o this_o spiritual_a combat_n for_o howsoever_o before_o the_o fight_n of_o temptation_n he_o resolve_v manful_o to_o make_v resistance_n and_o to_o overcome_v yet_o when_o the_o devil_n strong_o assault_v the_o world_n flatter_v or_o frown_v and_o the_o flesh_n treacherous_o betray_v he_o fight_v secret_o with_o whole_a legion_n of_o unlawful_a lust_n against_o the_o spirit_n then_o be_v he_o foil_v and_o often_o take_v captive_a of_o sin_n but_o let_v such_o to_o their_o comfort_n know_v that_o if_o they_o continue_v their_o earnest_a desire_n of_o fight_v still_o the_o lord_n battle_n and_o overcome_v their_o spiritual_a enemy_n they_o be_v accept_v of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o in_o the_o end_n he_o will_v give_v they_o strength_n to_o obtain_v a_o final_a victory_n and_o that_o their_o manifold_a foil_n and_o grisly_a wound_n which_o they_o receive_v of_o sin_n and_o satan_n may_v not_o discourage_v they_o let_v they_o consider_v that_o never_o any_o enter_v the_o battle_n our_o chief_a captain_n christ_n except_v but_o they_o have_v be_v subject_a to_o the_o like_a soil_n that_o god_n most_o valiant_a soldier_n have_v receive_v soil_n adam_n who_o be_v the_o strong_a champion_n in_o his_o own_o strength_n that_o ever_o enter_v the_o list_n be_v overthrow_v at_o the_o first_o encounter_n and_o take_v captive_a of_o sin_n in_o which_o bondage_n he_o shall_v ever_o have_v remain_v have_v not_o christ_n redeem_v he_o noah_n be_v overcome_v with_o drunkenness_n and_o let_v add_v thereunto_o incest_n david_n a_o notable_a soldier_n in_o fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n be_v make_v a_o slave_n to_o his_o own_o lust_n peter_n a_o stout_a champion_n run_v away_o and_o forsake_v his_o master_n in_o a_o word_n there_o be_v never_o any_o that_o live_v who_o have_v not_o be_v foil_v by_o satan_n and_o wound_v with_o sin_n one_o perhaps_o receive_v more_o and_o deep_a wound_n or_o be_v long_o hold_v captive_a
spirit_n work_v in_o we_o for_o by_o nature_n we_o be_v dead_a in_o our_o sin_n and_o the_o child_n of_o wrath_n as_o well_o as_o the_o unbelieve_a heathen_a or_o most_o profane_a worldling_n 2.1.3_o eph._n 2.1.3_o eph._n 2.1.3_o by_o nature_n we_o be_v not_o able_a so_o much_o as_o to_o think_v a_o good_a thought_n or_o to_o will_n that_o which_o be_v good_a no_o more_o than_o those_o who_o remain_v in_o the_o state_n of_o condemnation_n as_o appear_v 2._o cor._n 3.5_o phil._n 2.13_o but_o it_o be_v our_o saviour_n christ_n 3.25.26_o 2._o cor._n 3.5_o phil._n 2.13_o eph._n 3.25.26_o who_o so_o love_v his_o church_n that_o he_o give_v himself_o for_o it_o that_o he_o may_v sanctify_v it_o and_o cleanse_v it_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o water_n through_o the_o word_n etc._n etc._n as_o it_o be_v eph._n 5.25.26_o so_o that_o when_o we_o have_v attain_v to_o the_o high_a measure_n of_o sanctification_n that_o we_o can_v possible_o attain_v unto_o we_o must_v in_o all_o humility_n confess_v with_o paul_n 15.10_o 1._o cor._n 15.10_o that_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n we_o be_v that_o we_o be_v as_o it_o be_v 1._o cor._n 15.10_o neither_o must_v we_o attribute_v any_o thing_n in_o the_o work_n of_o our_o salvation_n unto_o our_o sanctification_n and_o good_a work_n but_o ascribe_v all_o to_o the_o free_a grace_n and_o undeserued_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n whereby_o we_o be_v sanctify_v and_o stir_v up_o to_o new_a obedience_n who_o be_v altogether_o pollute_v yea_o dead_a in_o our_o sin_n so_o that_o our_o sanctification_n and_o worthiness_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n love_n and_o mercy_n towards_o we_o but_o his_o love_n and_o free_a goodwill_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o make_v we_o who_o be_v unworthy_a in_o ourselves_o worthy_a in_o christ_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o measure_v god_n love_n by_o our_o worthiness_n and_o abundance_n of_o grace_n as_o be_v a_o cause_n thereof_o nor_o despair_v of_o his_o favour_n and_o mercy_n when_o we_o see_v our_o unworthines_n and_o weakness_n in_o sanctify_a grace_n for_o these_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o his_o love_n but_o effect_n and_o consequent_o when_o we_o want_v they_o altogether_o though_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o hope_n while_o we_o remain_v in_o this_o state_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o utter_o to_o despair_v for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v see_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o good_a time_n may_v begin_v his_o good_a work_n in_o we_o and_o when_o it_o be_v begin_v and_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o least_o measure_n of_o sanctification_n even_o a_o desire_n and_o holy_a endeavour_n to_o live_v in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o it_o be_v god_n work_n which_o he_o have_v begin_v will_v finish_v and_o accomplish_v 1.6_o phil._n 1.6_o according_a to_o that_o phil._n 1.6_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n let_v we_o possess_v our_o soul_n with_o patience_n and_o with_o a_o quiet_a and_o peaceable_a mind_n labour_n after_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n use_v all_o good_a mean_n ordain_v of_o god_n for_o this_o purpose_n submit_v ourselves_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n which_o we_o do_v desire_n to_o his_o good_a will_n and_o pleasure_n who_o will_v dispose_v of_o all_o so_o as_o shall_v be_v most_o for_o his_o glory_n and_o our_o good_a and_o in_o any_o case_n let_v we_o beware_v that_o we_o do_v not_o so_o impatient_o and_o violent_o desire_v increase_v of_o more_o grace_n as_o that_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n we_o forget_v to_o be_v thankful_a to_o god_n for_o that_o we_o have_v turn_v our_o song_n of_o praise_n for_o god_n great_a benefit_n into_o murmur_v and_o repine_v let_v we_o not_o be_v like_a unto_o rich_a miser_n who_o have_v their_o mind_n so_o intent_n upon_o the_o get_n of_o that_o riches_n they_o have_v not_o as_o that_o they_o forget_v to_o enjoy_v and_o take_v comfort_n of_o that_o they_o have_v let_v we_o not_o resemble_v those_o unthankful_a man_n who_o when_o they_o have_v receive_v many_o benefit_n do_v still_o desire_v more_o and_o when_o their_o desire_n be_v not_o present_o satisfy_v ungrateful_o murmur_v against_o their_o benefactor_n as_o though_o they_o have_v receive_v nothing_o but_o let_v we_o make_v use_n of_o those_o grace_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v to_o god_n glory_n &_o our_o comfort_n let_v we_o desire_v more_o that_o we_o may_v more_o glorify_v he_o with_o his_o own_o gift_n and_o though_o our_o desire_n be_v not_o present_o satisfy_v let_v we_o not_o fall_v into_o impatiency_n but_o submit_v ourselves_o unto_o his_o goodwill_n and_o pleasure_n and_o be_v true_o thankful_a for_o that_o portion_n of_o grace_n which_o it_o have_v please_v he_o of_o his_o abundant_a mercy_n to_o bestow_v upon_o us._n §_o sect._n 6_o last_o 2.11_o our_o own_o worthiness_n no_o cause_n of_o our_o salvation_n rom._n 6.23_o eph_n 2.8_o tit._n 2.11_o our_o salvation_n itself_o depend_v not_o upon_o our_o own_o worthiness_n but_o upon_o god_n free_a mercy_n and_o undeserued_a love_n for_o salvation_n be_v the_o free_a gift_n of_o god_n and_o not_o the_o wage_n of_o our_o own_o worthiness_n as_o death_n be_v the_o wage_n of_o sin_n as_o appear_v rom._n 6.23_o and_o we_o be_v save_v by_o grace_n 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 as_o it_o be_v eph._n 2.8_o and_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o tit._n 2.11_o that_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n bring_v salvation_n and_o teach_v we_o to_o deny_v ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v live_v sober_o and_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n so_o that_o our_o forsake_v sin_n and_o embrace_a holiness_n and_o righteousness_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n of_o our_o salvation_n but_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n by_o which_o all_o these_o effect_n be_v also_o wrought_v in_o us._n but_o most_o plain_o be_v that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 2._o tim._n 1.9_o where_o he_o exclude_v our_o own_o work_n and_o worthiness_n 1.9_o 2._o tim._n 1.9_o to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v ascribe_v the_o whole_a work_n of_o our_o salvation_n to_o god_n grace_n and_o goodwill_n who_o have_v save_v we_o say_v he_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 grace_n so_o tit._n 3.5_o not_o by_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n which_o we_o have_v do_v 3.5_o tit._n 3.5_o but_o according_a to_o his_o mercy_n he_o save_v we_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n and_o renew_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n see_v therefore_o god_n love_n be_v not_o ground_v upon_o our_o own_o worthiness_n see_v he_o elect_v redeem_v call_v justifi_v sanctifi_v and_o final_o save_v we_o of_o his_o mere_a mercy_n and_o free_a goodwill_n without_o any_o respect_n of_o our_o own_o merit_n or_o good_a work_n let_v we_o not_o restrain_v the_o infinite_a love_n of_o god_n to_o our_o desert_n nor_o measure_v his_o unmeasurable_a goodwill_n by_o the_o short_a ell_n of_o our_o own_o merit_n but_o as_o the_o lord_n have_v free_o love_v we_o so_o let_v we_o acknowledge_v his_o free_a and_o undeserued_a love_n and_o rely_v whole_o thereupon_o notwithstanding_o our_o unworthiness_n see_v our_o worthiness_n be_v no_o cause_n of_o his_o love_n but_o it_o be_v his_o love_n which_o make_v we_o and_o will_v sure_o make_v we_o worthy_a to_o be_v belove_v if_o we_o rest_v whole_o upon_o he_o in_o christ_n by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n for_o so_o much_o as_o we_o despair_v in_o respect_n of_o our_o own_o unworthiness_n so_o much_o will_v we_o ascribe_v to_o our_o own_o worthiness_n and_o look_v how_o much_o we_o attribute_v unto_o ourselves_o in_o the_o work_n of_o our_o salvation_n so_o much_o we_o detract_v from_o god_n free_a mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n and_o therefore_o let_v we_o humble_o acknowledge_v our_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o become_v nothing_o in_o our_o own_o eye_n that_o we_o may_v whole_o rely_v upon_o god_n that_o he_o may_v be_v all_o in_o all_o for_o well_o worthy_a be_v we_o to_o thirst_v if_o we_o leave_v the_o fountain_n of_o live_a water_n and_o dig_v unto_o ourselves_o break_v cistern_n which_o will_v hold_v no_o water_n 2.13_o jere._n 2.13_o well_o worthy_a be_v we_o to_o fall_v into_o the_o gulf_n of_o despair_n if_o we_o forsake_v the_o firm_a pillar_n of_o our_o salvation_n god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n rely_v and_o rest_v upon_o the_o break_a staff_n of_o our_o own_o righteousness_n well_o worthy_a be_v we_o to_o be_v damn_v if_o we_o envy_v the_o lord_n the_o praise_n and_o glory_n of_o our_o salvation_n desire_v rather_o to_o ascribe_v it_o unto_o ourselves_o §_o sect._n 7_o but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v object_v that_o god_n be_v just_a and_o
grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n to_o the_o praise_n of_o his_o glory_n who_o have_v bestow_v they_o and_o to_o the_o comfort_n of_o our_o own_o soul_n who_o have_v receive_v they_o and_o as_o they_o be_v chastisement_n they_o serve_v for_o sharp_a eye-salue_n to_o clear_v our_o dim_a sight_n so_o as_o we_o may_v see_v our_o sin_n and_o true_o repent_v of_o they_o they_o serve_v for_o sour_a sauce_n to_o bring_v we_o out_o of_o love_n with_o our_o sweet_a sin_n and_o for_o fire_n and_o file_n whereby_o we_o be_v purge_v and_o scour_v from_o the_o dross_n and_o rust_n of_o our_o corruption_n they_o be_v sharp_a prune_a knife_n to_o lop_v and_o trim_a we_o that_o we_o may_v bring_v forth_o plentiful_a fruit_n in_o godliness_n they_o be_v spur_n to_o prick_v we_o forward_o in_o the_o christian_a race_n and_o hedge_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o wander_v out_o of_o the_o way_n they_o be_v sharp_a salve_n to_o draw_v out_o our_o secret_a corruption_n and_o bitter_a potion_n to_o cure_v our_o desperate_a disease_n they_o be_v that_o wormwood_n whereby_o the_o lord_n wean_v we_o from_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n who_o please_a delight_n we_o will_v ever_o suck_v without_o weariness_n if_o our_o mouth_n be_v not_o distaste_v with_o some_o affliction_n they_o be_v rod_n wherewith_o be_v scourge_v we_o be_v make_v more_o circumspect_a in_o our_o way_n and_o more_o careful_a to_o perform_v obedience_n unto_o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o our_o heavenly_a father_n in_o a_o word_n they_o be_v the_o straight_a path_n which_o lead_v to_o everlasting_a happiness_n and_o a_o bridle_n to_o restrain_v we_o from_o run_v headlong_o in_o the_o broad_a way_n which_o lead_v to_o endless_a woe_n and_o misery_n and_o therefore_o see_v our_o momentany_a affliction_n do_v serve_v for_o the_o manifest_v of_o god_n glory_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o the_o further_a of_o our_o eternal_a salvation_n let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v out_o of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n because_o of_o our_o affliction_n but_o rather_o let_v we_o repute_v they_o as_o they_o be_v indeed_o sign_n of_o his_o gracious_a providence_n and_o fatherly_a care_n which_o he_o have_v over_o us._n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v object_v that_o this_o i_o speak_v be_v true_a of_o the_o outward_a affliction_n of_o the_o body_n affliction_n satan_n temptation_n ground_v upon_o our_o spiritual_a affliction_n for_o thereby_o the_o flesh_n be_v mortify_v and_o subdue_v and_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n exercise_v and_o increase_v in_o we_o but_o thy_o affliction_n will_v he_o say_v be_v far_o different_a for_o thy_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o horror_n and_o fear_n thy_o conscience_n be_v mortal_o sting_v with_o sin_n and_o the_o weight_n thereof_o overwhelm_v thou_o thou_o see_v thyself_o subject_a to_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o be_v already_o torment_v with_o the_o pain_n of_o hell_n thy_o god_n who_o look_v upon_o his_o child_n with_o a_o amiable_a countenance_n frown_v upon_o thou_o like_o a_o severe_a judge_n and_o thou_o taste_v of_o nothing_o but_o of_o his_o heavy_a wrath_n and_o displeasure_n in_o a_o word_n thou_o have_v not_o one_o spark_n of_o true_a consolation_n wrought_v in_o thou_o by_o god_n spirit_n with_o which_o those_o that_o be_v god_n child_n be_v full_o replenish_v and_o whereby_o they_o be_v encourage_v patient_o to_o abide_v all_o affliction_n but_o thy_o inward_a vexation_n be_v the_o torment_n of_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o the_o flashing_n of_o hell_n fire_n wherewith_o hereafter_o thou_o shall_v eternal_o be_v burn_v to_o this_o temptation_n we_o must_v answer_v that_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o the_o affliction_n of_o the_o mind_n be_v far_o more_o grievous_a than_o the_o affliction_n of_o the_o body_n hatred_n that_o our_o spiritual_a affliction_n be_v no_o sign_n of_o god_n hatred_n and_o that_o the_o torment_n of_o conscience_n cause_v by_o the_o weight_n of_o sin_n and_o the_o apprehension_n of_o god_n fearful_a wrath_n be_v as_o it_o be_v god_n three-stringed_n whip_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o gentle_a rod_n of_o outward_a affliction_n for_o a_o sorrowful_a mind_n dry_v up_o the_o bone_n 18.14_o pro._n 17.12_o pro._n 18.14_o as_o it_o be_v pro._n 17.12_o and_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n may_v sustain_v his_o other_o infirmity_n but_o a_o wound_a spirit_n who_o can_v bear_v as_o the_o wise_a man_n speak_v prou._n 18.14_o nevertheless_o though_o these_o correction_n be_v more_o sharp_a and_o grievous_a than_o the_o outward_a affliction_n of_o the_o body_n yet_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o these_o also_o be_v the_o chastisement_n which_o our_o heavenly_a father_n inflict_v upon_o his_o child_n sometime_o for_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o sometime_o for_o their_o trial_n or_o chastisement_n when_o more_o light_a correction_n will_v not_o reclaim_v they_o for_o first_o those_o place_n of_o scripture_n before_o quote_v be_v speak_v general_o of_o all_o affliction_n whatsoever_o and_o therefore_o be_v not_o to_o be_v restrain_v to_o the_o outward_a affliction_n of_o the_o body_n see_v they_o extend_v themselves_o also_o to_o the_o affliction_n of_o the_o mind_n neither_o do_v our_o heavenly_a father_n correct_v all_o alike_o but_o some_o he_o rebuke_v only_o by_o his_o word_n and_o go_v no_o further_a when_o as_o this_o reclaim_v they_o but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v he_o go_v a_o step_n further_o and_o chastize_v they_o with_o gentle_a correction_n as_o with_o outward_a cross_n and_o affliction_n but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o reform_v they_o he_o take_v his_o whip_n into_o his_o hand_n wherewith_o he_o grievous_o scourge_v they_o to_o the_o end_n they_o may_v more_o sensible_o taste_v of_o his_o displeasure_n and_o amend_v that_o which_o be_v amiss_o and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o make_v they_o feel_v the_o weight_n of_o sin_n 12.6_o reu._n 3.19_o heb._n 12.6_o and_o appehend_v his_o wrath_n and_o heavy_a displeasure_n which_o by_o their_o sin_n they_o have_v just_o incur_v and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o he_o still_o remain_v their_o gracious_a father_n who_o seek_v not_o their_o destruction_n but_o their_o reformation_n neither_o need_v this_o deal_n of_o our_o heavenly_a father_n seem_v strange_a unto_o we_o see_v earthly_a parent_n take_v the_o same_o course_n with_o their_o child_n who_o they_o tender_o love_v for_o when_o they_o offen_n they_o they_o first_o seek_v their_o amendment_n by_o word_n and_o fatherly_a admonition_n and_o when_o this_o will_v do_v no_o good_a they_o proceed_v to_o blow_n and_o in_o a_o gentle_a manner_n do_v correct_v they_o and_o if_o this_o prevail_v not_o with_o they_o than_o they_o use_v more_o sharp_a and_o severe_a chastisement_n but_o if_o all_o this_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n then_o will_v they_o disguise_v their_o fatherly_a affection_n under_o the_o vizard_n of_o wrath_n and_o heavy_a displeasure_n they_o banish_v out_o of_o their_o countenance_n all_o sign_n of_o love_n and_o assume_v terrible_a look_n and_o bitter_a frown_n yea_o they_o will_v sometime_o thrust_v they_o out_o of_o door_n and_o reject_v they_o a_o while_n leave_v they_o to_o shift_v for_o themselves_o and_o to_o endure_v all_o misery_n and_o whence_o proceed_v all_o this_o sure_o not_o from_o hatred_n but_o from_o love_n and_o tender_a care_n which_o they_o have_v over_o they_o for_o their_o good_a and_o this_o make_v they_o use_v the_o bridle_n of_o correction_n to_o restrain_v they_o from_o run_v into_o all_o licentiousness_n this_o cause_v they_o to_o pretend_v wrath_n in_o the_o countenance_n that_o they_o be_v not_o by_o their_o lewdness_n force_v to_o entertain_v it_o into_o their_o heart_n this_o move_v they_o to_o reject_v they_o for_o a_o time_n that_o they_o may_v reclaim_v and_o retain_v they_o for_o ever_o neither_o do_v our_o heavenly_a father_n who_o be_v infinite_a in_o love_n deal_v otherwise_o with_o his_o disobedient_a child_n he_o use_v but_o his_o word_n if_o his_o word_n will_v suffice_v he_o go_v no_o further_a than_o gentle_a chastisement_n if_o that_o be_v enough_o but_o if_o he_o sharp_o scourge_v we_o yea_o if_o he_o look_v upon_o we_o with_o a_o frown_a countenance_n and_o show_v nothing_o in_o outward_a appearance_n but_o his_o wrath_n and_o heavy_a displeasure_n if_o he_o seem_v to_o reject_v we_o for_o a_o time_n and_o to_o give_v we_o over_o to_o be_v torment_v by_o satan_n yet_o undoubted_o all_o this_o proceed_v from_o his_o love_n and_o that_o fatherly_a care_n he_o have_v over_o we_o for_o our_o everlasting_a good_a and_o salvation_n he_o seek_v not_o our_o destruction_n but_o amendment_n he_o frown_v on_o we_o for_o a_o time_n that_o he_o may_v look_v gracious_o on_o we_o for_o ever_o he_o seem_v to_o reject_v we_o for_o a_o while_n that_o like_o the_o prodigal_a
to_o attain_v unto_o the_o land_n another_o while_n fear_v see_v no_o place_n where_o to_o light_v till_o at_o last_o be_v so_o weary_a that_o she_o can_v fly_v no_o further_o she_o fall_v down_o and_o be_v drown_v in_o the_o sea_n so_o these_o one_o while_o hope_n and_o soon_o after_o find_v their_o own_o infirmity_n and_o not_o see_v where_o they_o may_v rest_v their_o waver_a mind_n doubt_v and_o fear_n till_o at_o last_o through_o weariness_n they_o sink_v down_o and_o be_v swallow_v up_o in_o the_o gulf_n of_o desperation_n where_o they_o be_v drown_v and_o destroy_v if_o it_o do_v not_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o lift_v they_o up_o again_o and_o to_o show_v they_o the_o firm_a rock_n jesus_n christ_n whereupon_o they_o may_v rest_v their_o weary_a mind_n and_o refresh_v their_o faint_a soul_n which_o he_o always_o do_v perform_v to_o those_o that_o belong_v to_o his_o election_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o of_o they_o shall_v perish_v though_o satan_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n seek_v their_o ruin_n and_o destruction_n but_o at_o this_o mark_n satan_n aim_v though_o he_o never_o hit_v it_o and_o though_o he_o never_o final_o prevail_v yet_o to_o this_o doubt_v and_o in_o the_o end_n despair_v he_o labour_v to_o persuade_v the_o true_a christian_a neither_o do_v he_o content_v himself_o with_o the_o force_n of_o his_o own_o temptation_n but_o he_o join_v with_o he_o the_o world_n which_o be_v as_o ready_a as_o satan_n himself_o to_o oppugn_v the_o certainty_n of_o our_o election_n and_o our_o own_o traitorous_a flesh_n which_o be_v easy_o move_v to_o doubt_v and_o despair_n when_o as_o it_o see_v nothing_o in_o itself_o whereupon_o it_o may_v rest_v in_o the_o world_n he_o make_v his_o choice_n not_o of_o silly_a ignorant_a man_n but_o of_o the_o most_o subtle_a sophister_n and_o learned_a doctor_n the_o true_a successor_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n even_o the_o whole_a rabble_n of_o the_o popish_a clergy_n who_o stand_v on_o satan_n part_n stout_o fight_v his_o battle_n be_v persuade_v and_o overcome_v by_o that_o temptation_n which_o our_o saviour_n christ_n withstand_v all_o this_o will_v i_o give_v thou_o for_o to_o what_o end_n i_o pray_v you_o do_v these_o great_a doctor_n so_o stiff_o stand_v in_o the_o defence_n of_o satan_n cause_n persuade_v man_n may_v and_o main_a to_o doubt_v of_o their_o election_n and_o consequent_o of_o their_o salvation_n sure_o that_o by_o empty_v man_n mind_n of_o all_o true_a comfort_n they_o may_v fill_v their_o own_o chest_n and_o get_v the_o treasure_n of_o the_o earth_n into_o their_o possession_n for_o when_o the_o weak_a conscience_n waver_v and_o doubt_v of_o his_o election_n and_o not_o find_v any_o true_a consolation_n whereupon_o it_o may_v rest_v come_v unto_o they_o for_o some_o comfort_n and_o better_a assurance_n they_o behave_v themselves_o like_o unto_o ungracious_a surgeon_n who_o intend_v to_o make_v a_o pray_v of_o their_o patient_n and_o to_o get_v their_o gain_n out_o of_o their_o pain_n and_o torture_n do_v one_o day_n heal_v and_o the_o next_o day_n hinder_v the_o cure_n make_v the_o wound_n worse_o than_o it_o be_v when_o they_o take_v it_o in_o hand_n till_o at_o last_o they_o have_v so_o poison_v the_o sore_a that_o it_o be_v pass_v their_o cure_n whereas_o they_o can_v easy_o have_v heal_v it_o if_o they_o have_v not_o regard_v their_o profit_n more_o than_o their_o own_o credit_n or_o their_o patient_n health_n or_o like_v unto_o deceitful_a lawyer_n who_o sometime_o speak_v in_o their_o client_n cause_n and_o sometime_o betray_v it_o go_v about_o in_o a_o tedious_a circuit_n whereas_o the_o direct_a way_n lie_v open_a before_o they_o that_o so_o their_o client_n cause_n be_v make_v more_o doubtful_a &_o tedious_a &_o themselves_o impatient_a of_o delay_n be_v fain_o to_o double_a and_o treble_a their_o fee_n and_o yet_o oftentimes_o to_o no_o purpose_n because_o the_o more_o they_o receive_v the_o fit_a they_o think_v they_o to_o be_v their_o perpetual_a client_n so_o do_v these_o popish_a surgeon_n and_o romish_a counsellor_n deal_v with_o their_o patient_a and_o client_n for_o show_v his_o wound_a conscience_n and_o desire_v some_o comfort_n at_o their_o hand_n they_o will_v not_o make_v any_o sovereign_a salve_n of_o the_o simples_n which_o they_o may_v gather_v out_o of_o god_n word_n whereby_o he_o may_v soon_o be_v heal_v for_o then_o their_o cure_n and_o consequent_o their_o gain_n be_v at_o a_o end_n but_o they_o hold_v he_o in_o suspense_n and_o increase_v his_o disease_n of_o doubt_v apply_v thereunto_o poison_n in_o stead_n of_o salve_n whereby_o at_o last_o his_o wound_n be_v make_v desperate_a thou_o can_v not_o will_n they_o say_v attain_v unto_o any_o certain_a assurance_n of_o thy_o election_n for_o that_o be_v fond_a presumption_n but_o thou_o be_v to_o hope_v well_o and_o that_o thou_o may_v confirm_v thy_o hope_n thou_o must_v make_v vow_n and_o go_v on_o pilgrimage_n to_o invocate_v and_o offer_v unto_o these_o and_o these_o saint_n thou_o must_v do_v these_o work_n of_o supererogation_n build_v such_o a_o monastery_n repair_v such_o a_o church_n give_v so_o much_o money_n to_o such_o a_o cloister_n buy_v these_o indulgence_n whereby_o thou_o may_v receive_v pardon_n for_o thy_o sin_n and_o for_o more_o surety_n sake_n thou_o shall_v at_o thy_o death_n bequeath_v so_o much_o money_n to_o the_o priest_n for_o mass_n trental_n and_o dirge_n that_o if_o it_o happen_v thou_o go_v into_o purgatory_n thou_o may_v speedy_o be_v deliver_v but_o all_o this_o while_n they_o speak_v not_o a_o word_n of_o god_n undeserued_a grace_n and_o free_a election_n not_o a_o syllable_n of_o christ_n death_n and_o satisfaction_n for_o our_o sin_n no_o this_o be_v too_o sovereign_a a_o salve_n and_o will_v too_o soon_o heal_v the_o wound_a conscience_n and_o so_o mar_v the_o market_n of_o these_o mountebank_n make_v their_o vow_n pilgrimage_n mass_n dirge_n indulgence_n and_o other_o trumpery-ware_n not_o worth_a the_o cheapen_v §_o sect._n 2_o but_o let_v we_o consider_v the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n between_o we_o and_o satan_n with_o his_o doctor_n and_o proctor_n assistant_n the_o state_n of_o this_o question_n between_o the_o christian_a and_o satan_n with_o his_o assistant_n who_o he_o fee_v with_o worldly_a riches_n to_o plead_v his_o cause_n we_o hold_v that_o a_o man_n true_o convert_v endue_v with_o a_o lively_a faith_n and_o sanctify_v may_v ordinary_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n elect_v to_o salvation_n but_o they_o affirm_v that_o it_o be_v presumption_n for_o such_o to_o have_v any_o certain_a assurance_n hereof_o unless_o it_o be_v by_o extraordinary_a revelation_n he_o may_v hope_v indeed_o that_o he_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o this_o hope_n must_v he_o temper_v with_o fear_n and_o mix_v with_o doubt_v and_o this_o doubt_v they_o call_v humility_n which_o they_o do_v not_o account_v a_o infirmity_n but_o rather_o a_o virtue_n which_o do_v commend_v their_o faith_n esteem_v firm_a assurance_n to_o be_v but_o heretical_a confidence_n and_o damnable_a presumption_n and_o pronounce_v he_o accurse_v in_o their_o council_n of_o trent_n who_o affime_v that_o we_o be_v to_o believe_v without_o doubt_v the_o remission_n of_o our_o own_o sin_n and_o everlasting_a life_n in_o particular_a and_o because_o they_o can_v but_o confess_v that_o doubt_v and_o believe_v in_o themselves_o be_v oppose_v one_o against_o another_o they_o teach_v that_o their_o faith_n be_v assure_v of_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n as_o in_o themselves_o infinite_a and_o sufficient_a but_o it_o doubt_v in_o respect_n of_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o manifold_a imperfection_n to_o apply_v they_o particular_o unto_o ourselves_o so_o that_o when_o we_o look_v upon_o god_n and_o christ_n there_o be_v cause_n of_o firm_a assurance_n but_o when_o we_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o matter_n of_o doubt_v there_o be_v in_o deed_n some_o place_n leave_v to_o their_o stagger_a hope_n but_o none_o to_o assurance_n of_o faith_n as_o though_o our_o faith_n be_v ground_v on_o our_o own_o worthiness_n and_o not_o upon_o god_n free_a mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n and_o as_o though_o rest_v upon_o these_o alone_a it_o can_v not_o have_v certain_a assurance_n of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n notwithstanding_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o corruption_n but_o let_v we_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o this_o their_o doctrine_n which_o contain_v nothing_o else_o but_o principle_n whereupon_o sathan_n may_v ground_v his_o temptation_n whereby_o he_o persuade_v we_o first_o to_o doubt_v and_o afterward_o to_o despair_v of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n for_o when_o the_o trouble_a conscience_n have_v no_o other_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n and_o his_o own_o election_n but_o
from_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n vers_fw-la 35._o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o he_o whosoever_o therefore_o with_o paul_n believe_v that_o christ_n die_v for_o he_o that_o god_n free_o justifi_v he_o through_o christ_n merit_n and_o that_o our_o saviour_n fit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n to_o make_v intercession_n for_o he_o he_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o god_n love_n and_o consequent_o of_o his_o election_n second_o paul_n speak_v this_o not_o of_o himself_o alone_o but_o also_o of_o all_o the_o faithful_a and_o therefore_o he_o use_v the_o plural_a number_n i_o be_o persuade_v that_o nothing_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o separate_v us._n so_o eph._n 3.12_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o we_o have_v through_o christ_n boldness_n and_o entrance_n with_o confidence_n by_o faith_n in_o he_o 10.22_o eph._n 3.12_o heb._n 4.16_o and_o 10.22_o and_o heb._n 4.16_o he_o exhort_v we_o to_o go_v bold_o unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n that_o we_o may_v receive_v mercy_n etc._n etc._n and_o chap._n 10.22_o let_v we_o draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n in_o assurance_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o will_v fain_o know_v what_o entrance_n with_o confidence_n what_o boldness_n and_o assurance_n of_o faith_n when_o we_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n and_o present_v ourselves_o before_o his_o throne_n of_o majesty_n if_o we_o remain_v doubtful_a of_o his_o love_n and_o our_o election_n so_o heb._n 6.19_o he_o say_v that_o our_o hope_n be_v a_o sure_a and_o steadfast_a anchor_n of_o the_o soul_n 6.19_o heb._n 6.19_o but_o what_o certainty_n or_o steadfastness_n be_v there_o in_o it_o if_o it_o waver_v and_o stagger_v through_o doubtfulness_n so_o often_o as_o we_o look_v upon_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n the_o apostle_n peter_n also_o do_v tell_v we_o that_o the_o trust_n which_o we_o have_v through_o jesus_n christ_n must_v be_v perfect_a 1.13_o 1._o pet._n 1.13_o that_o be_v entire_a and_o perpetual_a till_o we_o enjoy_v the_o thing_n which_o we_o hope_v for_o 1._o pet._n 1.13_o and_o 2._o pet._n 1.10_o he_o exhort_v we_o to_o use_v all_o diligence_n that_o we_o may_v make_v our_o call_n and_o election_n sure_a which_o if_o we_o can_v not_o do_v he_o shall_v persuade_v we_o to_o the_o undertake_n of_o a_o needless_a labour_n nay_o he_o plain_o assure_v we_o that_o if_o we_o do_v these_o thing_n to_o wit_n if_o we_o join_v virtue_n with_o our_o faith_n and_o with_o virtue_n knowledge_n and_o with_o knowledge_n temperance_n and_o with_o temperance_n patience_n and_o with_o patience_n godliness_n and_o with_o godliness_n brotherly_a kindness_n and_o with_o brotherly_a kindness_n love_n we_o shall_v never_o fall_v because_o these_o be_v effect_n and_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o our_o election_n and_o the_o apostle_n john_n will_v not_o have_v it_o a_o matter_n doubtful_a whether_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v or_o no_o but_o certain_o know_v and_o undoubted_o believe_v and_o therefore_o he_o aim_v principal_o at_o this_o mark_n and_o propound_v this_o as_o the_o chief_a end_n of_o his_o epistle_n namely_o to_o show_v how_o we_o may_v know_v ordinary_o and_o be_v full_o assure_v that_o we_o be_v belove_v of_o god_n 3.14_o 1._o joh._n 3.14_o elect_a and_o shall_v be_v save_v so_o 1_o joh._n 3.14_o we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o his_o epistle_n he_o say_v that_o he_o have_v write_v it_o to_o this_o end_n that_o we_o may_v know_v that_o we_o have_v eternal_a life_n chap._n 5.13_o 5.13_o and_o 5.13_o see_v then_o the_o scripture_n do_v commend_v unto_o we_o a_o steadfast_a and_o assure_a faith_n whereby_o we_o particular_o be_v assure_v and_o persuade_v of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n notwithstanding_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n therefore_o let_v not_o the_o tempter_n persuade_v we_o to_o cast_v away_o this_o certain_a persuasion_n and_o to_o waver_v in_o doubt_v but_o let_v we_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 2._o tim._n 1.12_o 1.12_o 2._o tim._n 1.12_o though_o i_o be_o unworthy_a yet_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 to_o he_o §_o sect._n 5_o but_o against_o that_o which_o have_v be_v say_v the_o tempter_n object_v answer_v a_o objection_n ground_v upon_o the_o indefinitnesse_n of_o god_n promise_n answer_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v general_a and_o indefinite_a and_o therefore_o no_o man_n can_v gather_v out_o of_o they_o any_o certain_a assurance_n of_o his_o particular_a election_n i_o answer_v that_o this_o consequence_n be_v false_a for_o out_o of_o a_o general_a and_o indefinite_a proposition_n we_o may_v true_o and_o by_o the_o law_n of_o reason_n gather_v and_o infer_v a_o particular_a conclusion_n though_o not_o contrariwise_o for_o example_n if_o i_o thus_o conclude_v all_o man_n be_v reasonable_a creature_n but_o i_o be_o a_o man_n therefore_o i_o be_o a_o reasonable_a creature_n it_o be_v right_o and_o true_o infer_v though_o therefore_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v contain_v in_o general_a proposition_n yet_o may_v every_o faithful_a man_n as_o certain_o conclude_v that_o they_o belong_v unto_o he_o as_o if_o they_o be_v particular_o apply_v unto_o he_o by_o name_n 3.16_o joh._n 3.16_o for_o when_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o ambassador_n make_v this_o general_a proposition_n in_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n whosoever_o true_o believe_v in_o christ_n they_o be_v all_o elect_a unto_o everlasting_a life_n the_o faithful_a hearer_n make_v this_o assumption_n in_o his_o mind_n but_o i_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o by_o the_o preach_n of_o his_o word_n make_v effectual_a by_o his_o spirit_n have_v a_o true_a faith_n beget_v in_o i_o whereby_o i_o believe_v in_o christ_n my_o saviour_n and_o therefore_o god_n promise_v of_o life_n and_o salvation_n belong_v unto_o i_o and_o thus_o also_o do_v the_o conscience_n of_o man_n out_o of_o the_o general_a curse_n of_o the_o law_n conclude_v that_o he_o be_v accurse_v for_o when_o the_o law_n deliver_v this_o proposition_n in_o general_a curse_a be_v every_o one_o who_o abide_v not_o in_o all_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o law_n to_o do_v they_o 3.10_o deut._n 27.26_o gal._n 3.10_o every_o particular_a man_n make_v this_o assumption_n in_o his_o own_o conscience_n but_o i_o have_v not_o continue_v in_o all_o to_o do_v it_o nay_o in_o stead_n of_o do_v all_o i_o have_v neglect_v all_o in_o stead_n of_o continue_v in_o obedience_n i_o have_v be_v continual_o disobedient_a in_o stead_n of_o do_v the_o duty_n command_v i_o have_v commit_v the_o sin_n forbid_v and_o therefore_o by_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n i_o be_o accurse_v so_o that_o though_o both_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v general_a and_o indefinite_a yet_o do_v every_o man_n conscience_n true_o inform_v by_o god_n word_n gather_v out_o of_o they_o most_o certain_a particular_a conclusion_n §_o sect._n 6_o but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v object_v further_o make_v that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o be_v the_o faithful_a unto_o who_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v make_v it_o be_v true_a indeed_o that_o every_o faithful_a man_n may_v apply_v the_o general_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o himself_o but_o all_o the_o question_n be_v whether_o thou_o can_v know_v that_o thou_o have_v faith_n or_o no_o see_v many_o who_o continue_v in_o their_o infidelity_n brag_v most_o of_o their_o faith_n i_o answer_v that_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o many_o be_v deceive_v by_o content_v themselves_o with_o their_o carnal_a security_n in_o stead_n of_o a_o lively_a faith_n but_o hence_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o because_o many_o be_v deceive_v with_o a_o opinion_n of_o faith_n therefore_o those_o that_o believe_v indeed_o can_v be_v assure_v that_o they_o have_v faith_n no_o more_o than_o this_o follow_v some_o man_n dream_v that_o they_o be_v rich_a and_o be_v not_o so_o indeed_o when_o they_o awake_v therefore_o no_o man_n know_v whether_o he_o be_v rich_a or_o no_o for_o what_o be_v their_o secure_a opinion_n but_o a_o idle_a dream_n of_o their_o own_o brain_n which_o have_v no_o warrant_n out_o of_o god_n word_n where_o as_o faith_n certain_o and_o evident_o persuade_v and_o like_o a_o candle_n do_v not_o only_o manifest_v other_o thing_n but_o also_o itself_o appear_v by_o his_o own_o light_n so_o that_o as_o a_o man_n who_o see_v and_o feel_v the_o fire_n and_o the_o heat_n thereof_o do_v certain_o know_v that_o he_o see_v and_o feel_v it_o so_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n do_v know_v that_o he_o
sin_n shall_v have_v they_o remit_v and_o be_v make_v a_o heir_n of_o everlasting_a life_n and_o the_o particular_a hearer_n do_v true_o assume_v that_o he_o believe_v and_o repent_v the_o minister_n have_v authority_n give_v he_o of_o god_n to_o make_v this_o conclusion_n therefore_o be_v thou_o assure_v that_o thy_o sin_n be_v forgive_v thou_o in_o christ_n and_o that_o thou_o be_v a_o undoubted_a heir_n of_o everlasting_a life_n second_o as_o the_o lord_n do_v offer_v unto_o we_o his_o gracious_a promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n so_o do_v we_o receive_v they_o by_o faith_n but_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o only_o general_o in_o the_o word_n offer_v these_o his_o gracious_a promise_n to_o all_o that_o will_v receive_v they_o but_o also_o particular_o in_o the_o right_a use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n to_o every_o faithful_a receiver_n for_o in_o the_o sacrament_n we_o must_v consider_v a_o relation_n and_o correspondency_n between_o the_o outward_a sign_n and_o thing_n signify_v as_o therefore_o the_o minister_n do_v offer_v and_o give_v and_o i_o receive_v and_o eat_v the_o outward_a sign_n of_o bread_n and_o wine_n so_o be_o i_o as_o certain_o to_o believe_v that_o god_n do_v offer_v and_o give_v and_o that_o i_o do_v receive_v and_o feed_v upon_o christ_n jesus_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n with_o the_o hand_n and_o mouth_n of_o faith_n unto_o the_o nourish_a of_o my_o particular_a soul_n to_o everlasting_a life_n as_o my_o body_n be_v nourish_v with_o these_o outward_a element_n of_o bread_n and_o wine_n last_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o through_o faith_n we_o have_v entrance_n unto_o god_n with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n 3.12_o eph._n 3.12_o and_o therefore_o by_o faith_n the_o believer_n be_v particular_o persuade_v of_o the_o remission_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o of_o his_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n for_o with_o what_o boldness_n or_o confidence_n can_v the_o poor_a sinner_n come_v before_o god_n who_o be_v terrify_v with_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n with_o the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n and_o with_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o selfe-guiltinesse_n if_o he_o be_v not_o particular_o assure_v that_o his_o curse_n be_v bear_v by_o christ_n that_o he_o be_v forgive_v the_o whole_a debt_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o reconcile_v unto_o god_n what_o assure_a comfort_n can_v he_o receive_v if_o he_o believe_v that_o god_n have_v elect_v peter_n and_o paul_n and_o all_o his_o church_n if_o he_o be_v not_o also_o assure_v that_o he_o be_v in_o this_o number_n if_o a_o whole_a city_n shall_v rebel_v and_o commit_v high_a treason_n against_o a_o prince_n and_o the_o prince_n shall_v send_v out_o a_o proclamation_n declare_v that_o upon_o some_o condition_n he_o will_v receive_v they_o to_o mercy_n with_o what_o boldness_n or_o confidence_n can_v any_o in_o this_o city_n come_v before_o he_o if_o he_o be_v not_o assure_v that_o he_o have_v perform_v these_o condition_n but_o this_o be_v our_o case_n we_o have_v rebel_v against_o god_n and_o he_o have_v proclaim_v in_o his_o gospel_n the_o pardon_n of_o our_o sin_n so_o we_o lay_v hold_v upon_o christ_n by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n and_o repent_v we_o of_o our_o sin_n if_o therefore_o we_o can_v not_o be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v a_o lively_a faith_n and_o true_a repentance_n and_o consequent_o that_o god_n merciful_a promise_n belong_v particular_o unto_o we_o with_o what_o boldness_n or_o confidence_n can_v we_o come_v before_o he_o but_o the_o apostle_n faith_n that_o by_o faith_n we_o have_v this_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n and_o therefore_o it_o follow_v that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o thereby_o may_v certain_o be_v persuade_v of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o particular_a election_n §_o sect._n 7_o four_o that_o we_o may_v certain_o be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n sacrament_n the_o four_o argument_n draw_v from_o the_o doctrine_n and_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n it_o may_v be_v prove_v by_o a_o argument_n draw_v from_o the_o doctrine_n and_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n for_o the_o lord_n have_v add_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n his_o sacrament_n as_o seal_n not_o to_o confirm_v god_n promise_n in_o themselves_o which_o be_v so_o undoubted_o true_a that_o they_o need_v no_o confirmation_n but_o to_o strengthen_v our_o faith_n in_o this_o full_a assurance_n that_o they_o belong_v particular_o unto_o us._n for_o whereas_o in_o the_o word_n the_o promise_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n be_v general_o propound_v to_o all_o believer_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n they_o be_v particular_o apply_v to_o every_o worthy_a receiver_n to_o the_o end_n that_o all_o doubt_v be_v remoove_v they_o may_v certain_o be_v assure_v that_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v belong_v particular_o unto_o themselves_o now_o if_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v we_o doubt_v of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n and_o if_o this_o doubt_n be_v a_o virtue_n of_o faith_n as_o the_o papist_n teach_v then_o sure_o there_o be_v no_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n for_o the_o word_n be_v sufficient_a to_o beget_v that_o general_a faith_n which_o be_v mix_v with_o doubt_v and_o the_o sacrament_n which_o do_v further_o assure_v we_o and_o apply_v unto_o we_o god_n promise_n will_v be_v rather_o hurtful_a than_o profitable_a because_o they_o take_v away_o doubt_v which_o be_v a_o virtue_n of_o their_o faith_n but_o we_o be_v otherwise_o instruct_v by_o god_n truth_n namely_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o have_v we_o doubt_v of_o his_o promise_n and_o therefore_o he_o have_v not_o only_o write_v his_o covenant_n but_o also_o have_v confirm_v it_o by_o his_o seal_n and_o have_v thereby_o particular_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o use_n and_o benefit_n of_o every_o one_o who_o receive_v it_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o lively_a faith_n that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o place_n leave_v to_o doubt_v and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o sacrament_n of_o circumcision_n be_v call_v the_o seal_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n 4.11_o rom._n 4.11_o rom._n 4.11_o because_o thereby_o as_o by_o a_o seal_n abraham_n be_v confirm_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n promise_n and_o assure_v that_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o promise_a seed_n do_v belong_v unto_o he_o and_o answerable_a to_o this_o sacrament_n be_v baptism_n wherein_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o gracious_a promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n make_v in_o he_o be_v particular_o apply_v to_o the_o party_n baptize_v and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o all_o that_o be_v baptize_v into_o christ_n have_v put_v on_o christ_n 3.27_o gal._n 3.27_o gal._n 3.27_o where_o the_o apostle_n compare_v christ_n to_o a_o garment_n which_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o faith_n be_v put_v on_o by_o every_o particular_a believer_n so_o in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n the_o bread_n and_o wine_n be_v particular_o deliver_v unto_o all_o the_o communicant_n to_o signify_v unto_o they_o that_o every_o one_o who_o stretch_v forth_o the_o hand_n of_o faith_n do_v receive_v christ_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n whereby_o his_o soul_n be_v nourish_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n whosoever_o therefore_o have_v faith_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o he_o receive_v christ_n and_o whosoever_o receive_v christ_n he_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o his_o election_n and_o salvation_n for_o to_o as_o many_o as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o who_o be_v those_o 1.12_o joh._n 1.12_o even_o those_o that_o believe_v in_o his_o name_n as_o it_o be_v joh._n 1.12_o and_o whosoever_o eat_v his_o flesh_n and_o drink_v his_o blood_n have_v eternal_a life_n 6.54.47_o joh._n 6.54.47_o as_o our_o saviour_n say_v joh._n 6.54_o now_o if_o we_o will_v know_v how_o we_o feed_v upon_o he_o it_o be_v by_o the_o mouth_n of_o faith_n as_o he_o expound_v himself_o vers_n 47._o §_o sect._n 8_o five_o 5.14.15_o the_o five_o argument_n take_v from_o prayer_n 1._o joh._n 5.14.15_o whatsoever_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o pray_v for_o that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o 0198_o 0153_o nay_o we_o ought_v steadfast_o to_o believe_v that_o we_o shall_v receive_v it_o and_o this_o be_v evident_a 1._o joh._n 5.14_o this_o be_v the_o assurance_n that_o we_o have_v in_o he_o that_o if_o we_o ask_v any_o thing_n according_a to_o his_o will_n he_o hear_v us._n 15._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 that_o we_o have_v the_o petition_n that_o we_o have_v desire_v of_o he_o and_o the_o apostle_n james_n will_v have_v we_o to_o ask_v in_o faith_n without_o waver_v 6.12_o jam._n 1.5_o mat._n 6.12_o that_o be_v not_o doubt_v to_o receive_v that_o we_o
and_o shall_v be_v save_v notwithstanding_o that_o they_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n without_o repentance_n make_v no_o conscience_n of_o their_o way_n nor_o indeavor_v to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n of_o life_n then_o be_v it_o not_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n but_o a_o presumptuous_a fantasy_n and_o a_o secure_a and_o carnal_a imagination_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o conscience_n be_v the_o same_o with_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o it_o do_v not_o bear_v witness_n nor_o give_v any_o assurance_n that_o they_o be_v save_v which_o god_n word_n pronounce_v to_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o damnation_n when_o therefore_o this_o testimony_n be_v give_v in_o a_o faithful_a man_n and_o agreeable_a to_o god_n word_n it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o seal_v we_o in_o the_o full_a assurance_n of_o that_o we_o believe_v according_a to_o that_o ephesian_n 1.13_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1.13_o eph._n 1.13_o that_o after_o the_o faithful_a have_v receive_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n even_o the_o gospel_n of_o their_o salvation_n and_o believe_v therein_o they_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n but_o those_o who_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o hear_v the_o gospel_n preach_v and_o when_o they_o hear_v it_o do_v not_o believe_v it_o nor_o apply_v it_o to_o themselves_o by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n nor_o bring_v forth_o any_o fruit_n thereof_o in_o a_o holy_a and_o christian_a life_n they_o have_v neither_o faith_n nor_o god_n spirit_n and_o therefore_o if_o they_o have_v any_o persuasion_n of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n it_o be_v not_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n but_o their_o own_o fantasy_n and_o a_o vain_a opinion_n arise_v from_o carnal_a security_n and_o presumption_n §_o sect._n 6_o second_o spirit_n another_o mean_n to_o discern_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n may_v hereby_o be_v know_v first_o in_o that_o it_o thorough_o persuade_v the_o faithful_a of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n second_o by_o the_o manner_n of_o persuade_v they_o three_o by_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o testimony_n and_o persuasion_n for_o the_o first_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v not_o only_o give_v this_o bare_a testimony_n that_o we_o be_v elect_v adopt_a and_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o also_o do_v full_o persuade_v we_o hereof_o as_o be_v a_o thing_n most_o certain_a and_o without_o question_n so_o 1_o cor._n 2.12_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 2.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.12_o that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n and_o eph._n 1._o 17_o 18._o god_n spirit_n be_v call_v the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n 1.17.18_o eph._n 1.17.18_o which_o do_v inlighten_v the_o eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o the_o hope_n be_v of_o his_o call_n and_o what_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o glorious_a inheritance_n be_v in_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o be_v the_o exceed_a greatness_n of_o his_o power_n particular_o towards_o we_o that_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o work_n of_o his_o mighty_a power_n so_o the_o apostle_n john_n say_v 3.24_o 1._o joh._n 3.24_o hereby_o we_o know_v that_o christ_n abide_v in_o we_o even_o by_o the_o spirit_n which_o he_o have_v give_v we_o 1._o joh._n 3.24_o so_o that_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o we_o have_v god_n spirit_n &_o thereby_o be_v thorough_o persuade_v that_o christ_n dwell_v in_o we_o and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o chap._n 4.13_o hereby_o know_v we_o that_o we_o dwell_v in_o he_o and_o he_o in_o we_o 4.13_o and_o 4.13_o because_o he_o have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o spirit_n and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v so_o steadfast_o assure_v of_o god_n love_n that_o he_o profess_v that_o he_o be_v firm_o persuade_v that_o nothing_o can_v separate_v he_o from_o it_o 39_o rom._n 8.38_o 39_o rom._n 8.38_o 39_o so_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n thorough_o persuade_v the_o faithful_a that_o they_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v whereas_o the_o wicked_a who_o be_v destitute_a of_o god_n spirit_n may_v well_o have_v a_o fond_a opinion_n and_o a_o foolish_a conceit_n that_o they_o be_v high_o in_o god_n love_n and_o elect_v to_o salvation_n through_o carnal_a security_n and_o vain_a presumption_n but_o they_o be_v never_o thorough_o persuade_v hereof_o for_o when_o any_o affliction_n of_o body_n or_o mind_n be_v inflict_v on_o they_o their_o vain_a persuasion_n vanish_v away_o and_o nothing_o remain_v but_o doubt_v which_o in_o the_o end_n bring_v they_o to_o utter_v desperation_n but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v take_v occasion_n to_o discourage_v the_o weak_a christian_a and_o to_o persuade_v he_o that_o he_o have_v not_o god_n spirit_n see_v he_o do_v not_o feel_v in_o himself_o this_o firm_a persuasion_n of_o god_n love_n and_o his_o election_n and_o salvation_n feeling_n the_o persuasion_n of_o the_o spirit_n not_o always_o discern_v in_o our_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o which_o we_o be_v to_o answer_v that_o god_n spirit_n do_v thorough_o persuade_v although_o not_o at_o all_o time_n neither_o in_o our_o present_a sense_n and_o feeling_n for_o immediate_o after_o our_o conversion_n when_o we_o be_v new_o regenerate_v and_o like_o new_a bear_v babe_n in_o christ_n the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v but_o weak_a in_o we_o and_o we_o be_v not_o skilful_a in_o understand_v this_o heavenly_a language_n of_o the_o spirit_n wherewith_o we_o have_v be_v altogether_o unacquainted_a but_o the_o spirit_n wax_v strong_a in_o we_o and_o we_o grow_v to_o a_o ripe_a age_n in_o christ_n do_v cry_v in_o our_o heart_n abba_n father_n and_o testify_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o we_o then_o be_v better_o acquaint_v with_o this_o heavenly_a speech_n do_v well_o understand_v and_o be_v thorough_o persuade_v thereby_o and_o second_o when_o the_o poor_a christian_a who_o have_v receive_v a_o great_a measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o spiritual_a conflict_n the_o hideous_a noise_n of_o satan_n temptation_n which_o like_a canonshot_n sound_v in_o his_o ear_n and_o the_o tumultuous_a outcry_n of_o his_o own_o passion_n do_v so_o disturb_v and_o whole_o possess_v he_o that_o he_o can_v not_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n persuade_v he_o that_o he_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n till_o the_o skirmish_n be_v past_a and_o the_o noise_n of_o temptation_n cease_v and_o then_o again_o as_o in_o former_a time_n he_o hear_v to_o his_o comfort_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n persuade_v he_o of_o god_n love_n and_o hereby_o he_o be_v again_o assure_v thereof_o so_o that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o have_v of_o god_n spirit_n in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o christian_a infancy_n and_o spiritual_a nonage_n nor_o yet_o according_a to_o our_o present_a sense_n in_o the_o time_n of_o temptation_n but_o when_o we_o be_v come_v to_o perfect_a age_n and_o when_o the_o conflict_n of_o temptation_n be_v cease_v second_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n persuade_v we_o of_o his_o love_n and_o our_o election_n be_v know_v by_o the_o manner_n whereby_o it_o persuade_v we_o namely_o it_o persuade_v we_o hereof_o with_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n word_n and_o draw_v not_o from_o any_o worthiness_n in_o ourselves_o but_o from_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o underserued_a mercy_n and_o from_o the_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n of_o christ_n whereas_o satan_n and_o our_o own_o flesh_n never_o use_v such_o reason_n but_o either_o move_v we_o to_o a_o bare_a and_o vain_a opinion_n which_o have_v no_o ground_n at_o all_o but_o self-love_n which_o make_v man_n easy_o believe_v that_o which_o they_o desire_v or_o else_o with_o some_o argument_n draw_v from_o some_o outward_a common_a benefit_n bestow_v indifferent_o upon_o the_o good_a and_o bad_a or_o last_o from_o a_o pharisaical_a conceit_n and_o false_a opinion_n of_o our_o own_o worthiness_n and_o desert_n §_o sect._n 7_o last_o thereof_o the_o 3._o mean_n to_o discern_v the_o spirit_n namely_o by_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v know_v and_o discern_v by_o the_o effect_n thereof_o for_o after_o that_o it_o have_v effectual_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v elect_v and_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n we_o be_v move_v thereby_o to_o trust_v whole_o in_o god_n and_o to_o love_v he_o as_o our_o gracious_a father_n from_o which_o love_n proceed_v a_o zeal_n of_o his_o glory_n and_o a_o true_a hatred_n of_o sin_n because_o thereby_o our_o heavenly_a father_n be_v dishonour_v &_o displease_v with_o we_o and_o a_o
unrepentancie_n and_o therefore_o if_o the_o assurance_n which_o we_o have_v of_o our_o election_n and_o salvation_n be_v not_o join_v with_o a_o desire_n to_o leave_v our_o sin_n and_o with_o a_o earnest_a endeavour_n of_o serve_v god_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n than_o it_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n but_o from_o carnal_a security_n and_o fond_a presumption_n last_o presumption_n no_o long_o persuade_v man_n of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n than_o they_o enjoy_v the_o outward_a benefit_n of_o this_o life_n but_o when_o the_o lord_n lay_v upon_o they_o any_o grievous_a affliction_n either_o outward_o in_o body_n and_o state_n or_o inward_o in_o mind_n then_o this_o persuasion_n vanish_v and_o nothing_o remain_v but_o doubt_v which_o common_o end_v in_o utter_a despair_n but_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v constant_a and_o permanent_a and_o howsoever_o we_o can_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o grievousnesse_n of_o affliction_n and_o the_o violent_a noise_n of_o our_o own_o passion_n hear_v the_o voice_n thereof_o at_o some_o time_n yet_o afterward_o again_o it_o cry_v aloud_o in_o our_o heart_n abba_n father_n and_o witness_v unto_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o that_o the_o chief_a mean_n whereby_o we_o be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o see_v we_o have_v it_o not_o natural_o in_o ourselves_o how_o may_v we_o attain_v unto_o it_o sure_o we_o be_v to_o have_v our_o recourse_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o light_n by_o earnest_a prayer_n 11.13_o jam._n 1.17_o matth._n 7.7_o luk._n 11.13_o from_o who_o descend_v every_o good_a and_o perfect_a gift_n have_v our_o faith_n ground_v upon_o god_n gracious_a promise_n namely_o that_o if_o we_o ask_v we_o shall_v receive_v and_o more_o especial_o that_o he_o will_v give_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v it_o as_o it_o be_v luk._n 11.13_o §_o sect._n 2_o the_o second_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v to_o the_o certainty_n of_o our_o election_n word_n the_o second_o mean_n the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n be_v the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n wherein_o the_o lord_n manife_v his_o grace_n and_o goodwill_n to_o all_o believe_v and_o repentant_a sinner_n and_o whereby_o also_o he_o ordinary_o beget_v this_o faith_n and_o repentance_n in_o all_o his_o child_n for_o howsoever_o paul_n may_v plant_v and_o apollo_n may_v water_v but_o god_n alone_o give_v the_o increase_n yet_o god_n blessing_n ordinary_o accompany_v his_o own_o ordinance_n make_v it_o effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n for_o those_o end_n for_o which_o he_o have_v ordain_v it_o and_o though_o the_o word_n may_v long_o sound_v in_o our_o ear_n before_o it_o pierce_v the_o heart_n or_o beget_v any_o save_a grace_n in_o we_o unless_o the_o lord_n open_v our_o heart_n and_o make_v the_o seed_n of_o his_o word_n fruitful_a yet_o those_o who_o make_v conscience_n of_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o diligence_n reverence_n and_o attention_n and_o pray_v for_o the_o assistance_n of_o god_n spirit_n whereby_o it_o may_v become_v profitable_a to_o their_o salvation_n may_v constant_o expect_v the_o blessing_n of_o god_n upon_o his_o own_o ordinance_n which_o they_o careful_o use_v in_o obedience_n to_o his_o will_n whereas_o those_o who_o neglect_n and_o contemn_v god_n word_n have_v no_o such_o assurance_n because_o it_o be_v the_o mean_n and_o instrument_n which_o be_v ordain_v of_o god_n for_o this_o purpose_n without_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v not_o ordinary_o beget_v faith_n or_o any_o save_a grace_n in_o us._n though_o therefore_o we_o do_v not_o after_o long_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n feel_v this_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n and_o our_o election_n yet_o let_v we_o not_o give_v it_o over_o but_o expect_v god_n blessing_n upon_o it_o and_o wait_v his_o leisure_n assure_v ourselves_o that_o in_o the_o end_n he_o will_v make_v this_o his_o own_o ordinance_n effectual_a for_o those_o end_n for_o which_o he_o have_v ordain_v it_o §_o sect._n 3_o the_o three_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v to_o the_o assurance_n of_o our_o election_n sacrament_n the_o three_o mean_n the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n be_v the_o frequent_a and_o religious_a use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n whereby_o our_o faith_n be_v more_o and_o more_o confirm_v the_o in_o truth_n of_o god_n promise_n for_o the_o lord_n to_o the_o preach_n of_o his_o word_n which_o be_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n have_v add_v these_o seal_n that_o we_o may_v be_v the_o more_o thorough_o assure_v of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o conscionable_o frequent_v this_o holy_a sacrament_n the_o lord_n will_v bless_v also_o this_o his_o own_o ordinance_n moreover_o they_o who_o worthy_o receive_v these_o holy_a mystery_n do_v receive_v christ_n jesus_n and_o have_v the_o union_n and_o communion_n which_o be_v between_o he_o and_o they_o more_o and_o more_o strengthen_v and_o confirm_v for_o he_o that_o eat_v his_o flesh_n and_o drink_v his_o blood_n dwell_v in_o christ_n and_o christ_n in_o he_o 6.56_o joh._n 6.56_o as_o it_o be_v joh._n 6.56_o now_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n to_o those_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n rom_n 8.1_o 8.1_o rom._n 8.1_o and_o therefore_o they_o need_v not_o doubt_v of_o their_o election_n and_o salvation_n §_o sect._n 4_o the_o four_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n 2._o the_o four_o mean_n the_o effect_n of_o our_o election_n zanch._n the_o attrib_n l._n 5._o c._n 2._o be_v the_o effect_n of_o god_n predestination_n which_o be_v the_o undoubted_a sign_n thereof_o for_o the_o effect_n argue_v the_o cause_n as_o the_o cause_n the_o effect_n and_o that_o not_o only_o in_o natural_a thing_n but_o also_o in_o those_o which_o be_v supernatural_a and_o spiritual_a and_o therefore_o as_o certain_o as_o we_o know_v that_o there_o be_v fire_n because_o it_o cast_v forth_o heat_n and_o the_o son_n by_o his_o cast_v forth_o of_o bright_a ray_n whereby_o the_o world_n be_v lighten_v and_o that_o a_o tree_n be_v good_a by_o the_o good_a fruit_n which_o it_o bring_v forth_o so_o also_o may_v we_o as_o certain_o be_v assure_v that_o we_o be_v elect_v of_o god_n when_o we_o find_v in_o ourselves_o the_o effect_n and_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o our_o election_n neither_o be_v these_o effect_n bare_a sign_n only_o of_o our_o election_n but_o also_o manifest_a seal_n which_o by_o their_o plain_a impression_n do_v evident_o assure_v we_o thereof_o so_o that_o though_o we_o do_v not_o direct_o and_o immediate_o know_v god_n election_n predestination_n and_o eternal_a decree_n of_o our_o salvation_n in_o god_n himself_o elect_v predestinate_v and_o decree_a that_o we_o shall_v be_v save_v yet_o we_o may_v plain_o see_v apparent_a seal_n and_o impression_n hereof_o in_o ourselves_o lively_o resemble_v that_o which_o be_v secret_a in_o god_n hide_a council_n and_o as_o we_o not_o see_v the_o seal_n which_o make_v the_o impression_n do_v easy_o discern_v the_o form_n fashion_n and_o quantity_n thereof_o by_o the_o print_n which_o it_o have_v make_v so_o we_o not_o see_v god_n secret_a decree_n of_o predestination_n may_v notwithstanding_o attain_v to_o the_o evedent_a knowledge_n thereof_o by_o that_o impression_n which_o it_o make_v in_o us._n this_o also_o may_v further_o be_v illustrate_v by_o a_o familiar_a similitude_n namely_o as_o the_o sun_n shine_v upon_o we_o with_o his_o bright_a beam_n do_v imprint_v as_o it_o be_v in_o our_o eye_n the_o image_n of_o his_o light_n whereby_o we_o see_v the_o sun_n and_o the_o light_n thereof_o the_o beam_n of_o the_o sun_n which_o be_v cast_v upon_o we_o be_v reflect_v back_o again_o to_o the_o sun_n itself_o so_o the_o foreknowledge_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o have_v decree_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v save_v before_o all_o eternity_n be_v secret_a in_o itself_o so_o that_o we_o can_v see_v not_o understand_v it_o direct_o but_o yet_o while_o god_n do_v acknowledge_v we_o for_o his_o elect_a he_o do_v express_v the_o image_n and_o form_n of_o this_o his_o foreknowledge_n in_o those_o who_o he_o have_v elect_v whereby_o we_o do_v also_o acknowledge_v he_o our_o gracious_a god_n who_o have_v elect_v we_o and_o so_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o by_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o god_n which_o be_v communicate_v unto_o we_o whereby_o we_o acknowledge_v he_o for_o our_o god_n and_o father_n we_o also_o know_v his_o foreknowledge_n whereby_o he_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v we_o for_o his_o son_n and_o child_n for_o first_o god_n know_v we_o and_o then_o by_o the_o light_n of_o this_o knowledge_n communicate_v unto_o we_o he_o inlightn_v our_o heart_n with_o the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o himself_o as_o
ephes_n 4.14_o therefore_o without_o holiness_n there_o be_v no_o assurance_n that_o we_o be_v elect_v see_v he_o have_v swear_v that_o all_o those_o who_o he_o have_v redeem_v and_o save_v out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o spiritual_a enemy_n hell_n death_n and_o the_o devil_n 75._o luk._n 1.74_o 75._o shall_v worship_v he_o in_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n all_o the_o day_n of_o their_o life_n what_o hope_v of_o redemption_n and_o salvation_n can_v they_o conceive_v who_o live_v in_o impiety_n and_o unrighteousness_n see_v by_o god_n oath_n they_o be_v exclude_v from_o both_o while_o they_o continue_v in_o this_o state_n chap._n x._o of_o the_o sign_n and_o infallible_a note_n of_o our_o election_n §_o sect._n 1_o and_o thus_o have_v i_o set_v down_o the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o our_o election_n salvation_n the_o first_o sign_n a_o earnest_a desire_n after_o the_o mean_n of_o our_o salvation_n now_o let_v we_o consider_v of_o some_o special_a sign_n which_o be_v infallible_a note_n of_o those_o that_o be_v elect_v the_o first_o sign_n be_v a_o earnest_a desire_n after_o the_o mean_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o a_o conscionable_a endeavour_n in_o use_v they_o after_o we_o enjoy_v they_o for_o the_o end_n and_o the_o mean_n be_v never_o separate_v in_o god_n decree_n and_o therefore_o those_o that_o careful_o use_v the_o mean_n may_v be_v assure_v that_o they_o shall_v attain_v unto_o the_o end_n for_o example_n the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n be_v the_o chief_a mean_n of_o our_o conversion_n be_v make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o as_o thereby_o we_o be_v beget_v unto_o god_n so_o also_o it_o be_v that_o bread_n of_o life_n wherewith_o our_o soul_n be_v nourish_v and_o strengthen_v in_o all_o spiritual_a grace_n so_o that_o whosoever_o god_n have_v elect_v those_o he_o have_v decree_v to_o call_v ordinary_o by_o these_o mean_n and_o by_o the_o same_o also_o to_o furnish_v with_o his_o grace_n be_v call_v whosoever_o therefore_o labour_v to_o purchase_v this_o precious_a pearl_n whosoever_o hunger_n after_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n and_o be_v content_a to_o enjoy_v it_o not_o only_a when_o it_o be_v good_a cheap_a but_o also_o when_o it_o be_v very_o chargeable_a whosoever_o enjoy_v it_o do_v attentive_o and_o diligent_o hear_v it_o and_o receive_v it_o with_o delight_n they_o use_v the_o mean_n of_o their_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o they_o be_v elect_v for_o the_o mean_n &_o the_o end_n go_v together_o and_o that_o this_o be_v a_o note_n of_o god_n child_n it_o appear_v joh._n 10.3_o 4._o where_o our_o saviour_n say_v that_o his_o sheep_n hear_v his_o voice_n 10.3.4_o joh._n 10.3.4_o and_o matth._n 13.45_o he_o compare_v the_o true_a member_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n to_o a_o merchant_n 13.45_o matth._n 13.45_o who_o rather_o than_o he_o will_v want_v the_o precious_a pearl_n of_o god_n word_n sell_v all_o he_o have_v to_o buy_v it_o those_o therefore_o who_o make_v this_o precious_a account_n of_o god_n word_n and_o careful_o diligent_o and_o attentive_o hear_v it_o when_o they_o enjoy_v it_o may_v to_o their_o comfort_n assure_v themselves_o that_o they_o have_v a_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o their_o election_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n those_o who_o have_v rather_o be_v without_o it_o than_o enjoy_v it_o those_o who_o will_v bestow_v no_o cost_n to_o obtain_v it_o nor_o forgo_v any_o pleasure_n or_o commodity_n that_o they_o may_v hear_v it_o nor_o when_o they_o do_v hear_v it_o be_v affect_v with_o any_o delight_n but_o be_v glut_v with_o loathe_v satietic_n hear_v no_o part_n of_o the_o sermon_n with_o any_o pleasure_n but_o the_o conclusion_n only_o they_o can_v have_v no_o assurance_n of_o their_o election_n because_o they_o neglect_v the_o mean_n of_o their_o salvation_n which_o be_v join_v with_o the_o end_n in_o god_n eternal_a decree_n the_o like_a also_o may_v be_v say_v of_o other_o mean_n as_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o sacrament_n meditate_v in_o god_n word_n the_o work_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o the_o rest_n §_o sect._n 2_o the_o second_o sign_n of_o those_o that_o be_v elect_v supplication_n the_o second_o sign_n the_o spirit_n of_o supplication_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o supplication_n when_o as_o they_o can_v pour_v forth_o their_o soul_n in_o fervent_a and_o effectual_a prayer_n unto_o the_o lord_n confess_v their_o sin_n and_o implore_v his_o grace_n and_o mercy_n for_o this_o be_v a_o notable_a fruit_n of_o god_n spirit_n work_v in_o we_o which_o we_o can_v by_o any_o natural_a mean_n attain_v unto_o for_o of_o ourselves_o we_o know_v not_o what_o to_o pray_v as_o we_o ought_v 8.26_o rom._n 8.26_o but_o the_o spirit_n help_v our_o infirmity_n and_o make_v request_n for_o we_o with_o sigh_n which_o can_v be_v express_v as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.26_o prayer_n therefore_o be_v a_o most_o inseparable_a fruit_n and_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o god_n spirit_n certain_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o election_n and_o adoption_n for_o it_o bear_v witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n 16._o verse_n 16._o as_o it_o be_v vers_n 16._o so_o rom._n 10.13_o it_o be_v say_v 10.13_o rom._n 10.13_o that_o whosoever_o call_v upon_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v be_v save_v but_o this_o prayer_n must_v proceed_v from_o faith_n for_o as_o it_o follow_v how_o shall_v they_o call_v on_o he_o in_o who_o they_o have_v not_o believe_v and_o must_v be_v perform_v in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o not_o with_o deceitful_a lip_n for_o it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n to_o draw_v near_o unto_o god_n with_o our_o mouth_n 29.13_o esa_n 29.13_o if_o our_o heart_n be_v far_o from_o he_o esa_n 29.13_o §_o sect._n 3_o the_o three_o sign_n of_o those_o who_o be_v elect_v and_o adopt_v to_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n thing_n the_o three_o sign_n be_v when_o we_o be_v wean_v from_o the_o love_n of_o the_o world_n and_o mind_n heavenly_a thing_n be_v when_o as_o their_o heart_n be_v somewhat_o wean_v from_o the_o world_n and_o seat_v in_o heaven_n mind_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o and_o when_o their_o tongue_n be_v set_v a_o work_n by_o the_o heart_n do_v glad_o entertain_v godly_a and_o religious_a conference_n for_o there_o as_o the_o treasure_n be_v there_o will_v the_o heart_n be_v also_o and_o with_o whatsoever_o the_o heart_n be_v affect_v the_o tongue_n be_v delight_v now_o that_o these_o holy_a meditation_n and_o religious_a discourse_n be_v sign_n of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n hereby_o it_o plain_o appear_v in_o that_o they_o can_v possible_o proceed_v from_o our_o corrupt_a nature_n to_o which_o they_o be_v irksome_a and_o tedious_a but_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o we_o and_o guide_v and_o direct_v we_o in_o our_o thought_n and_o word_n and_o whosoever_o be_v thus_o lead_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 8.14_o 8.14_o rom._n 8.14_o he_o that_o be_v right_a heir_n to_o a_o royal_a kingdom_n and_o not_o yet_o possess_v thereof_o be_v never_o weary_a of_o think_v on_o it_o nor_o glut_v with_o such_o discourse_n as_o tend_v to_o the_o extol_v the_o riches_n and_o glory_n which_o there_o attend_v he_o or_o show_v the_o mean_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v assure_v to_o come_v into_o speedy_a and_o peaceable_a possession_n of_o his_o right_n and_o so_o those_o who_o be_v elect_v by_o god_n and_o adopt_v to_o be_v the_o heir_n of_o his_o everlasting_a kingdom_n of_o glory_n be_v never_o satisfy_v in_o meditate_v and_o speak_v of_o the_o riches_n and_o joy_n of_o this_o heavenly_a inheritance_n or_o of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v assure_v undoubted_o to_o obtain_v it_o whereas_o those_o who_o have_v no_o such_o interest_n nor_o hope_n think_v and_o talk_v of_o these_o thing_n with_o loathsome_a weariness_n as_o be_v matter_n not_o concern_v they_o and_o therefore_o when_o such_o thought_n come_v into_o their_o mind_n they_o vanish_v as_o sudden_o as_o a_o flash_n of_o lightning_n and_o when_o they_o be_v present_a at_o any_o spiritual_a discourse_n the_o time_n seem_v long_o and_o they_o sit_v upon_o thorn_n until_o they_o be_v end_v and_o they_o remain_v dumb_a as_o though_o they_o be_v tongue-tied_a unless_o they_o take_v occasion_n to_o interrupt_v such_o holy_a conference_n and_o to_o divert_v they_o to_o some_o worldly_a affair_n §_o sect._n 4_o the_o four_o sign_n of_o the_o child_n of_o god_n who_o be_v elect_v to_o salvation_n it_o the_o four_o sign_n be_v the_o sight_n of_o sin_n and_o sorrow_n for_o it_o be_v when_o he_o see_v his_o sin_n and_o imperfection_n and_o true_o repent_v of_o they_o that_o be_v bewail_v those_o
face_n to_o face_n true_a it_o be_v that_o our_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o itself_o weak_a and_o feeble_a and_o compass_v about_o with_o the_o darkness_n of_o ignorance_n be_v mix_v and_o turmoil_v with_o much_o fear_n and_o doubt_v by_o reason_n of_o our_o natural_a inclination_n unto_o diffidence_n and_o incredulity_n the_o manifold_a temptation_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o burden_n of_o our_o sin_n lie_v heavy_a upon_o our_o conscience_n which_o make_v god_n dear_a child_n to_o groan_v and_o complain_v yea_o sometime_o to_o murmur_v and_o repine_v against_o god_n himself_o as_o though_o he_o be_v their_o enemy_n because_o he_o suffer_v they_o thus_o to_o be_v vex_v but_o still_o it_o rise_v after_o it_o have_v receive_v a_o foil_n and_o gather_v new_a strength_n against_o all_o new_a assault_n until_o in_o the_o end_n it_o obtain_v full_a victory_n so_o as_o all_o the_o faithful_a may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n 2._o cor._n 4.8_o we_o be_v afflict_v on_o every_o side_n 4.8.9_o 2._o cor._n 4.8.9_o yet_o be_v we_o not_o in_o distress_n in_o poverty_n but_o not_o overcome_v of_o poverty_n 9_o we_o be_v persecute_v but_o not_o forsake_v cast_v down_o but_o we_o perish_v not_o for_o though_o their_o faith_n be_v weak_a and_o their_o temptation_n vehement_a and_o violent_a yet_o this_o bruise_a reed_n be_v not_o break_v this_o smoke_a flax_n be_v not_o quench_v for_o as_o the_o reed_n in_o a_o boisterous_a tempest_n be_v blow_v down_o even_o to_o the_o ground_n but_o when_o the_o tempest_n be_v pass_v rise_v up_o again_o to_o his_o former_a estate_n so_o though_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n temptation_n beat_v we_o down_o even_o to_o earth_n yet_o by_o faith_n we_o rise_v again_o when_o the_o storm_n be_v overblowne_v §_o sect._n 4_o second_o certain_a how_o our_o faith_n though_o assault_v with_o doubt_v may_v be_v certain_a it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n child_n can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v certain_a see_v it_o be_v continual_o assault_v and_o often_o foil_v with_o doubt_v which_o be_v oppose_v to_o the_o certainty_n of_o faith_n to_o which_o we_o may_v easy_o answer_v if_o we_o know_v and_o remember_v that_o every_o christian_n be_v divide_v into_o two_o part_n the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n which_o continual_o fight_v and_o strive_v the_o one_o against_o the_o other_o and_o as_o they_o themselves_o be_v thus_o oppose_v so_o be_v their_o quality_n and_o fruit_n for_o in_o the_o spirit_n be_v faith_n love_n hope_v zeal_n joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o such_o other_o sanctify_a grace_n in_o the_o flesh_n be_v doubt_v and_o infidelity_n hatred_n of_o god_n presumption_n and_o desperation_n coldness_n dulness_n yea_o deadness_n in_o religion_n fear_n horror_n and_o such_o like_a corruption_n so_o as_o we_o may_v say_v with_o the_o apostle_n i_o know_v that_o in_o my_o flesh_n that_o be_v in_o my_o unregenerate_a part_n dwell_v no_o good_a thing_n 7.18_o rom._n 7.18_o rom._n 7.18_o now_o as_o there_o be_v a_o continual_a war_n between_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n so_o also_o between_o their_o quality_n and_o fruit_n for_o faith_n be_v continual_o assault_v with_o doubt_v and_o infidelity_n love_n of_o god_n with_o the_o hatred_n of_o god_n hope_v with_o presumption_n and_o desperation_n zeal_n with_o coldness_n and_o dulness_n in_o religion_n the_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n with_o horror_n and_o fear_n of_o god_n anger_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o condemnation_n and_o sometime_o the_o one_o sometime_o the_o other_o have_v the_o upper_a hand_n both_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n retain_v their_o nature_n and_o property_n although_o as_o we_o say_v remissis_fw-la gradibus_fw-la not_o exercise_v they_o in_o that_o measure_n and_o degree_n as_o they_o do_v when_o they_o have_v victory_n and_o give_v the_o other_o the_o foil_n for_o example_n when_o in_o some_o grievous_a affliction_n the_o hatred_n of_o god_n do_v assault_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o do_v so_o foil_n and_o wound_v it_o that_o we_o can_v scarce_o discern_v that_o it_o breathe_v or_o retain_v life_n yet_o notwithstanding_o the_o love_n of_o god_n even_o at_o that_o instant_n be_v not_o turn_v into_o hatred_n nor_o receive_v any_o property_n thereof_o but_o still_o retain_v his_o own_o nature_n and_o property_n which_o again_o clear_o appear_v and_o show_v themselves_o when_o the_o conflict_n be_v end_v the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o our_o hope_n zeal_n joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o other_o grace_n when_o they_o be_v most_o foil_v by_o the_o corruption_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o fight_n against_o they_o so_o as_o they_o can_v possible_o exercise_v their_o own_o action_n and_o function_n yet_o do_v they_o not_o receive_v any_o carnal_a property_n nor_o loose_v any_o of_o their_o own_o but_o retain_v still_o their_o own_o nature_n which_o again_o manife_v itself_o when_o the_o assault_n be_v end_v even_o as_o fire_v cover_v over_o with_o ash_n retain_v still_o his_o own_o nature_n of_o light_n and_o heat_n though_o then_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o ash_n the_o light_n be_v not_o see_v nor_o the_o heat_n feel_v but_o when_o the_o ash_n be_v remoove_v and_o new_a matter_n add_v unto_o it_o than_o it_o shine_v and_o burn_v and_o heat_v as_o much_o as_o it_o do_v before_o so_o when_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v cover_v as_o it_o be_v under_o the_o ash_n of_o our_o corruption_n they_o be_v not_o discern_v by_o their_o property_n and_o effect_n but_o when_o the_o corruption_n be_v remoove_v by_o virtue_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o the_o grace_n nourish_v with_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n prayer_n holy_a conference_n and_o such_o like_a spiritual_a exercise_n as_o it_o be_v with_o new_a matter_n add_v unto_o they_o then_o do_v they_o again_o shine_v in_o their_o brightness_n and_o exercise_v their_o wont_a strength_n in_o all_o good_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o our_o neighbour_n §_o sect._n 5_o and_o as_o it_o be_v with_o all_o other_o grace_n property_n faith_n assault_v with_o doubt_v retain_v his_o own_o nature_n and_o property_n so_o also_o with_o faith_n which_o be_v often_o assault_v with_o doubt_v and_o infidelity_n and_o sometime_o also_o so_o foil_v that_o we_o can_v hardly_o discern_v any_o breath_n or_o life_n in_o it_o but_o yet_o even_o than_o it_o retain_v it_o own_o nature_n and_o property_n and_o do_v not_o receive_v the_o nature_n and_o property_n of_o doubt_v but_o as_o the_o tree_n which_o be_v shake_v with_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o wind_n and_o be_v not_o overthrow_v do_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o tempest_n live_v and_o suck_v nourishment_n out_o of_o the_o earth_n and_o still_o retain_v his_o own_o nature_n and_o property_n so_o when_o our_o faith_n be_v shake_v with_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n temptation_n and_o with_o our_o own_o natural_a doubt_v and_o infidelity_n yet_o it_o still_o live_v and_o suck_v nourishment_n out_o of_o god_n gracious_a promise_n and_o still_o it_o retain_v his_o own_o property_n of_o certain_a persuasion_n though_o then_o it_o do_v not_o exercise_v it_o in_o action_n so_o manisest_o as_o before_o and_o after_o the_o conflict_n of_o temptation_n and_o as_o the_o shake_n of_o the_o tree_n be_v not_o of_o the_o nature_n thereof_o for_o of_o itself_o it_o stand_v firm_a and_o steadie_a but_o by_o outward_a accident_n namely_o the_o wind_n blow_v upon_o it_o so_o be_v not_o uncertain_a waver_a and_o unconstant_a doubt_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o faith_n for_o of_o itself_o it_o be_v firm_a and_o certain_a but_o it_o come_v by_o outward_a accident_n from_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o infidelity_n and_o the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n which_o as_o it_o be_v violent_o blow_v upon_o it_o which_o be_v pass_v it_o remain_v like_o the_o tree_n firm_a and_o constant_a and_o as_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o do_v still_o retain_v in_o themselves_o their_o own_o nature_n and_o property_n so_o also_o do_v they_o most_o common_o show_v themselves_o in_o their_o diverse_a fruit_n and_o effect_n and_o that_o oftentimes_o in_o the_o conflict_n and_o time_n of_o temptation_n so_o that_o the_o regenerate_a man_n may_v at_o the_o same_o time_n feel_v in_o himself_o contrary_a affection_n and_o action_n for_o the_o spirit_n acknowledge_v god_n goodness_n mercy_n and_o truth_n in_o his_o promise_n be_v replenish_v with_o joy_n be_v in_o hope_n to_o enjoy_v they_o on_o the_o otherside_n the_o flesh_n feel_v present_a misery_n and_o the_o sharpness_n of_o affliction_n sorrow_v and_o grieve_v the_o spirit_n apprehend_v and_o apply_v unto_o it_o the_o sweet_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v quiet_o rest_v upon_o they_o the_o flesh_n see_v it_o own_o corruption_n and_o the_o huge_a weight_n of_o
sin_n that_o press_v it_o down_o fear_v and_o doubt_v the_o spirit_n be_v assure_v of_o everlasting_a happiness_n triumph_v with_o joy_n desire_v nothing_o more_o than_o to_o be_v dissolve_v and_o to_o be_v with_o christ_n the_o flesh_n find_v itself_o guilty_a of_o sin_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n subject_n to_o the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o condemnation_n fear_v and_o tremble_v to_o think_v upon_o death_n the_o spirit_n conceive_v of_o god_n as_o of_o a_o merciful_a father_n in_o christ_n and_o in_o all_o necessity_n fly_v unto_o he_o by_o hearty_a prayer_n the_o flesh_n conceive_v of_o he_o as_o of_o a_o angry_a and_o severe_a judge_n and_o therefore_o fly_v from_o he_o desire_v rather_o to_o seek_v for_o help_v any_o where_o else_o than_o of_o the_o lord_n so_o that_o the_o christian_n by_o reason_n hereof_o at_o the_o same_o time_n find_v in_o himself_o opposition_n between_o action_n and_o action_n affection_n and_o affection_n for_o at_o the_o same_o instant_n while_o the_o flesh_n have_v in_o it_o the_o conscience_n of_o sin_n and_o sense_n of_o guiltiness_n do_v murmur_n repine_v and_o complain_v upon_o god_n as_o a_o enemy_n which_o be_v ready_a to_o destroy_v we_o the_o spirit_n do_v fly_v unto_o god_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n and_o commit_v itself_o to_o his_o providence_n will_n and_o protection_n expect_v salvation_n from_o he_o only_o which_o it_o can_v never_o do_v if_o it_o be_v not_o assure_v that_o we_o be_v in_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o in_o this_o the_o christian_n may_v not_o unfit_o be_v compare_v to_o a_o child_n who_o have_v be_v sharp_o correct_v by_o his_o father_n do_v avoid_v his_o presence_n as_o though_o he_o be_v his_o enemy_n but_o if_o at_o the_o same_o time_n some_o sudden_a danger_n affright_v he_o before_o all_o other_o he_o run_v to_o his_o father_n for_o safeguard_n and_o protection_n so_o when_o our_o heavenly_a father_n have_v sharp_o correct_v we_o either_o with_o some_o outward_a or_o inward_a affliction_n we_o flee_v from_o his_o presence_n as_o though_o he_o be_v our_o enemy_n but_o when_o a_o imminent_a danger_n overtake_v we_o and_o we_o be_v in_o peril_n to_o be_v supplant_v with_o sathan_n and_o his_o assistant_n who_o be_v our_o enemy_n in_o deed_n than_o the_o son-like_a affection_n which_o be_v wrought_v in_o our_o heart_n by_o god_n spirit_n do_v move_v we_o to_o run_v unto_o he_o before_o all_o other_o desire_v and_o crave_v his_o aid_n and_o assistance_n and_o thus_o it_o appear_v that_o though_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v mix_v together_o yet_o they_o retain_v their_o own_o nature_n property_n and_o effect_n and_o though_o faith_n which_o be_v a_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v mingle_v with_o doubt_v yet_o this_o doubt_v be_v not_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o faith_n which_o in_o itself_o be_v certain_a and_o assure_v nay_o it_o be_v not_o a_o infirmity_n of_o faith_n as_o lameness_n be_v a_o infirmity_n of_o the_o joint_n and_o dimness_n of_o the_o sight_n for_o it_o be_v not_o any_o way_n incident_a to_o the_o nature_n thereof_o and_o therefore_o much_o less_o be_v it_o a_o commendable_a virtue_n of_o faith_n as_o the_o papist_n teach_v but_o it_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o unbelief_n which_o be_v in_o the_o part_n unregenerate_a and_o be_v oppose_v unto_o faith_n as_o appear_v rom._n 4.20_o and_o consequent_o 4.20_o rom._n 4.20_o though_o faith_n be_v assault_v with_o doubt_v yet_o in_o it_o own_o nature_n it_o may_v and_o do_v remain_v certain_a and_o assure_v §_o sect._n 6_o four_o 2.16_o that_o it_o be_v no_o presumption_n to_o labour_v for_o the_o assurance_n of_o our_o election_n 1._o cor._n 2.16_o they_o object_n that_o it_o be_v rash_a presumption_n and_o proud_a boldness_n for_o any_o man_n to_o search_v into_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n secret_a counsel_n or_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o peremptory_o to_o determine_v that_o he_o be_v one_o who_o god_n have_v elect_v for_o who_o have_v know_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o cor._n 2.16_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o whosoever_o pri_v into_o god_n hide_a counsel_n and_o secret_a decree_n of_o predestination_n be_v proud_a and_o presumptuous_a and_o shall_v in_o the_o end_n receive_v the_o punishment_n of_o both_o be_v give_v over_o of_o god_n to_o fall_v into_o many_o error_n and_o in_o the_o end_n utter_a desperation_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v very_o dangerous_a yea_o pernicious_a to_o our_o soul_n if_o we_o labour_v after_o the_o assurance_n of_o our_o election_n by_o use_v these_o mean_n and_o judge_v of_o god_n decree_n according_a to_o the_o conceit_n of_o our_o own_o reason_n &_o doubtful_a speculation_n but_o yet_o though_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v in_o itself_o secret_a and_o not_o to_o be_v search_v into_o this_o must_v not_o hinder_v we_o from_o look_v into_o his_o will_n reveal_v though_o we_o can_v gather_v no_o certainty_n of_o our_o election_n by_o search_v into_o his_o secret_a decree_n yet_o this_o be_v no_o impediment_n why_o we_o may_v not_o gather_v it_o out_o of_o his_o word_n where_o he_o have_v reveal_v his_o decree_n and_o the_o execution_n thereof_o though_o we_o can_v have_v no_o assurance_n by_o our_o own_o speculation_n yet_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o it_o by_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n 8.16_o rom._n 8.16_o which_o witness_v to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n which_o also_o search_v all_o thing_n even_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o that_o we_o also_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v give_v we_o 2.10.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o as_o the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o pride_n or_o presumption_n to_o be_v certain_a and_o assure_v of_o that_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v in_o his_o word_n to_o this_o end_n that_o we_o may_v be_v certain_o assure_v thereof_o but_o it_o may_v be_v demand_v how_o this_o certainty_n can_v be_v gather_v out_o of_o the_o scripture_n i_o answer_v that_o if_o we_o will_v attain_v unto_o it_o we_o must_v not_o seek_v it_o in_o the_o law_n where_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n be_v make_v upon_o the_o condition_n of_o our_o own_o work_n and_o worthiness_n which_o condition_n we_o can_v never_o perform_v and_o therefore_o can_v never_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o promise_n but_o out_o of_o the_o gospel_n which_o do_v not_o only_o show_v that_o some_o be_v predestinate_v to_o life_n and_o some_o reject_v neither_o do_v it_o only_o speak_v of_o our_o election_n as_o it_o be_v ordain_v in_o god_n secret_a decree_n in_o itself_o or_o reveal_v in_o his_o word_n but_o also_o it_o set_v out_o unto_o we_o the_o execution_n of_o the_o decree_n with_o the_o cause_n mean_n sign_n and_o effect_n of_o our_o election_n and_o how_o it_o be_v accomplish_v for_o the_o bring_v we_o to_o those_o joy_n to_o which_o god_n have_v choose_v us._n first_o therefore_o it_o show_v the_o decree_n of_o god_n concern_v our_o election_n second_o god_n decree_n concern_v our_o redemption_n by_o the_o death_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n our_o mediator_n three_o the_o decree_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o call_n of_o his_o church_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n that_o they_o may_v be_v ingraft_v into_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o participate_v with_o he_o in_o all_o his_o benefit_n to_o their_o salvation_n four_o the_o decree_n concern_v the_o send_n of_o his_o spirit_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o choose_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n whereof_o the_o word_n be_v make_v effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n five_o and_o last_o his_o decree_n concern_v the_o justify_n and_o save_v of_o those_o who_o repent_v true_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o apprehend_v and_o apply_v unto_o themselves_o by_o a_o lively_a faith_n christ_n and_o his_o merit_n &_o obedience_n do_v approach_n unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n to_o receive_v mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n and_o all_o these_o be_v so_o link_v together_o that_o they_o can_v never_o possible_o be_v sever_v so_o that_o he_o who_o be_v assure_v of_o one_o may_v be_v assure_v of_o all_o whosoever_o be_v certain_a that_o he_o have_v faith_n and_o repentance_n may_v be_v certain_a also_o of_o his_o election_n though_o he_o never_o presumptuous_o search_v into_o god_n secret_a counsel_n five_o election_n §._o sect._n 7._o that_o the_o lord_n particular_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o election_n they_o object_n that_o there_o be_v no_o certainty_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v not_o ground_v upon_o god_n word_n but_o there_o be_v no_o place_n of_o god_n word_n which_o assure_v we_o of_o our_o particular_a election_n and_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v have_v no_o certainty_n
temptation_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o make_v it_o frustrate_v and_o unprofitable_a unto_o us._n for_o the_o first_o our_o vocation_n or_o call_n be_v a_o effect_n of_o god_n election_n whereby_o our_o saviour_n christ_n god_n and_o man_n do_v by_o his_o kingly_a authority_n call_v and_o invite_v we_o whilst_o we_o live_v here_o unto_o the_o participation_n and_o embrace_n of_o the_o inestimable_a benefit_n of_o our_o redemption_n that_o thereby_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n and_o thus_o be_v we_o call_v sometime_o soon_o and_o sometime_o late_a when_o it_o seem_v good_a unto_o the_o lord_n as_o appear_v in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o householder_n who_o hire_v laborer_n into_o his_o vineyard_n some_o at_o the_o dawn_n of_o the_o day_n other_o at_o the_o three_o sixth_o and_o nine_o hour_n 20._o matth._n 20._o other_o at_o the_o eleven_o hour_n not_o long_o before_o the_o sun_n set_v as_o it_o be_v matth._n 20._o effectual_a a_o twofold_a call_n general_a and_o effectual_a moreover_o this_o our_o call_n be_v either_o common_a and_o general_a or_o else_o special_a and_o effectual_a the_o general_a call_n be_v whereby_o all_o indifferent_o good_a and_o bad_a elect_a and_o reprobate_a be_v outward_o invite_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o embrace_v the_o benefit_n of_o our_o redemption_n wrought_v by_o christ_n which_o outward_a call_n be_v uneffectual_a to_o the_o wicked_a and_o reprobate_n because_o be_v invite_v to_o the_o supper_n of_o the_o king_n they_o refuse_v to_o come_v that_o be_v they_o either_o altogether_o neglect_v the_o hear_n of_o the_o heavenly_a ambassage_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o else_o contemn_v those_o inestimable_a benefit_n which_o be_v therein_o offer_v prefer_v before_o they_o the_o honour_n riches_n and_o pleasure_n of_o this_o life_n whereby_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n find_v no_o place_n in_o their_o heart_n but_o vanish_v away_o leave_v nothing_o behind_o it_o but_o the_o savour_n of_o death_n to_o their_o more_o deep_a condemnation_n §_o sect._n 2_o the_o special_a and_o effectual_a call_n be_v be_v what_o our_o effectual_a call_n be_v that_o which_o be_v proper_a to_o god_n elect_v when_o as_o with_o the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n wherein_o grace_n and_o salvation_n be_v offer_v to_o all_o believer_n our_o saviour_n christ_n join_v the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n which_o open_v our_o deaf_a ear_n inlighten_v our_o blind_a understanding_n and_o soften_v and_o sanctifi_v our_o hard_a and_o corrupt_a heart_n so_o as_o we_o attentive_o hear_v true_o understand_v and_o by_o a_o lively_a faith_n apply_v the_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n which_o be_v preach_v unto_o we_o whereby_o also_o we_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o world_n give_v to_o christ_n and_o he_o to_o we_o whereupon_o follow_v that_o near_a union_n whereby_o we_o be_v ingraft_v into_o his_o body_n mystical_o do_v become_v his_o member_n and_o he_o our_o head_n elect_a effectual_a calling_n proper_a to_o the_o elect_a that_o this_o effectual_a call_n be_v proper_a to_o those_o that_o be_v elect_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v it_o appear_v by_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o supper_n where_o many_o outward_o invite_v to_o the_o great_a supper_n of_o the_o king_n refuse_v to_o come_v 22.3.8_o matth._n 22.3.8_o &_o therefore_o be_v exclude_v from_o the_o marriage_n mat._n 22.3.8_o and_o rom._n 8_o 30_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o who_o he_o do_v predestinate_a they_o also_o he_o call_v and_o these_o also_o he_o justifi_v 8.30_o rom_n 8.30_o so_o act._n 13.48_o it_o be_v say_v that_o as_o many_o as_o be_v ordain_v to_o everlasting_a life_n believe_v at_o the_o preach_n of_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n 13.48_o act._n 13.48_o and_o therefore_o these_o only_o be_v effectual_o call_v 6.45_o joh._n 6.45_o and_o joh._n 6_o 45._o our_o saviour_n say_v that_o every_o one_o who_o have_v hear_v and_o have_v learn_v of_o the_o father_n come_v unto_o he_o so_o that_o outward_a hear_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o bring_v we_o to_o christ_n unless_o the_o father_n also_o inward_o instruct_v we_o with_o his_o holy_a spirit_n open_v our_o deaf_a ear_n enlighten_v our_o blind_a understanding_n incline_v our_o will_n and_o sanctify_v our_o affection_n that_o we_o may_v attentive_o hear_v true_o understand_v and_o hearty_o embrace_v the_o gospel_n preach_v unto_o us._n and_o this_o appear_v in_o the_o example_n of_o lydia_n 16.14_o act._n 16.14_o act._n 16.14_o who_o heart_n the_o lord_n be_v say_v to_o have_v open_v that_o she_o may_v attend_v unto_o the_o thing_n which_o paul_n speak_v and_o be_v convert_v by_o which_o speech_n the_o holy_a ghost_n impli_v thus_o much_o that_o her_o heart_n be_v as_o it_o be_v close_o shut_v and_o fast_o lock_v up_o so_o as_o he_o can_v not_o receive_v the_o word_n preach_v till_o the_o lord_n have_v open_v it_o by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n which_o matter_n need_v not_o seem_v strange_a unto_o we_o see_v it_o be_v continual_o confirm_v by_o our_o own_o experience_n for_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o many_o among_o we_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v from_o day_n to_o day_n and_o year_n to_o year_n and_o yet_o be_v never_o the_o near_o but_o still_o remain_v as_o ignorant_a in_o their_o mind_n as_o perverse_a in_o their_o will_n as_o corrupt_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o profane_v in_o their_o life_n as_o ever_o they_o be_v on_o the_o other_o side_n how_o happen_v it_o that_o some_o attentive_o hear_v god_n word_n treasure_n it_o up_o in_o their_o memory_n and_o thereby_o have_v their_o mind_n enlighten_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n their_o will_n incline_v to_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n their_o affection_n sanctify_v their_o life_n reform_v sure_o because_o the_o lord_n do_v join_v in_o these_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n with_o the_o outward_a ministry_n of_o his_o word_n make_v it_o effectual_a for_o their_o true_a conversion_n whereas_o he_o leave_v the_o other_o to_o their_o own_o corrupt_a affection_n and_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o thus_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o elect_v only_o be_v effectual_o call_v as_o for_o the_o wicked_a and_o reprobate_a though_o they_o hear_v the_o outward_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n by_o which_o they_o be_v invite_v unto_o christ_n yet_o they_o stubborn_o refuse_v to_o come_v unto_o he_o and_o reject_v all_o the_o gracious_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o their_o eternal_a perdition_n because_o the_o lord_n leave_v they_o to_o their_o own_o lust_n and_o corruption_n not_o open_v their_o hard_a heart_n nor_o incline_v their_o perverse_a will_n nor_o sanctify_v their_o corrupt_a affection_n §_o sect._n 3_o in_o the_o next_o place_n let_v we_o consider_v world_n of_o the_o part_n of_o effectual_a call_n and_o first_o of_o our_o separation_n from_o the_o world_n the_o part_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n the_o first_o be_v our_o separation_n from_o the_o world_n of_o which_o in_o former_a time_n we_o be_v citizen_n and_o true_a member_n that_o from_o henceforth_o we_o shall_v be_v of_o god_n household_n and_o family_n for_o natural_o we_o be_v mere_a worldling_n dead_a in_o our_o sin_n and_o to_o every_o good_a work_n reprobate_a live_v without_o god_n and_o serve_a satan_n the_o world_n and_o the_o corrupt_a lust_n of_o our_o flesh_n until_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o make_v choice_n of_o we_o among_o many_o other_o calling_z and_o separate_v we_o from_o this_o corrupt_a mass_n of_o mankind_n that_o he_o may_v make_v we_o subject_n first_o of_o his_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n and_o afterward_o of_o his_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n of_o this_o our_o saviour_n speak_v joh._n 15.19_o 15.19_o joh._n 15.19_o if_o you_o be_v of_o the_o world_n the_o world_n will_v love_v his_o own_o but_o because_o you_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n but_o i_o have_v choose_v you_o out_o of_o the_o world_n therefore_o the_o world_n hate_v you_o and_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o after_o our_o call_n and_o conversion_n 2.19_o eph._n 2.19_o we_o be_v no_o more_o stranger_n and_o forrener_n but_o citizen_n with_o the_o saint_n and_o of_o the_o household_n of_o god_n now_o the_o lord_n make_v this_o choice_n of_o we_o before_o other_o not_o for_o any_o respect_n of_o worthiness_n or_o excellency_n in_o we_o more_o than_o in_o they_o but_o of_o his_o mere_a mercy_n undeserued_a grace_n worthiness_n that_o the_o lord_n call_v we_o not_o for_o any_o respect_n of_o our_o own_o worthiness_n and_o free_a good_a will_n neither_o do_v he_o therefore_o entertain_v we_o into_o his_o church_n and_o family_n because_o we_o be_v already_o or_o because_o he_o know_v we_o will_v be_v hereafter_o holy_a and_o righteous_a but_o have_v free_o call_v we_o without_o any_o our_o desert_n he_o do_v also_o of_o his_o own_o undeserued_a
from_o the_o world_n and_o ingraft_v as_o lively_a member_n into_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n jesus_n motive_n motive_n to_o persuade_v to_o the_o diligent_a hear_n of_o god_n word_n the_o first_o motive_n let_v we_o therefore_o strong_o arm_v ourselves_o against_o this_o temption_n as_o be_v most_o pernicious_a unto_o our_o own_o soul_n and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v we_o brief_o consider_v of_o some_o reason_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v stir_v up_o diligent_o to_o frequent_a god_n holy_a assembly_n to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o this_o heavenly_a ambassage_n first_o therefore_o be_v be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v god_n own_o ordinance_n which_o he_o have_v institute_v and_o ordain_v for_o the_o gather_v together_o of_o the_o saint_n and_o build_v the_o body_n of_o his_o church_n 4.11.12_o eph._n 4.11.12_o as_o appear_v eph._n 4.11.12_o neither_o do_v he_o use_v ordinary_o any_o other_o mean_n especial_o where_o this_o be_v to_o be_v have_v for_o the_o true_a conversion_n of_o his_o child_n and_o for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o sanctify_a grace_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o they_o and_o therefore_o though_o he_o can_v by_o extraordinary_a mean_n have_v sufficient_o instruct_v the_o eunuch_n in_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o but_o rather_o use_v his_o own_o ordinance_n and_o send_v philip_n to_o preach_v unto_o he_o act._n 8._o though_o he_o can_v have_v illuminate_v the_o eye_n and_o understanding_n of_o paul_n 9.6.17_o act._n 8._o act._n 9.6.17_o by_o the_o immediate_a work_n of_o his_o spirit_n yet_o he_o choose_v rather_o to_o send_v he_o to_o ananias_n act._n 9.6.17_o though_o he_o can_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o angel_n have_v sufficient_o infourm_v cornelius_n in_o thing_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o offer_v so_o great_a disparagement_n to_o his_o own_o ordinance_n 10.5.6_o act._n 10.5.6_o and_o therefore_o he_o cause_v he_o to_o send_v for_o the_o apostle_n peter_n act._n 10.5.6_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o will_v have_v any_o assurance_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n and_o true_a conversion_n unto_o god_n let_v we_o with_o all_o care_n all_o diligence_n hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v unto_o us._n motive_n the_o second_o motive_n second_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v even_o god_n himself_o who_o speak_v by_o the_o mouth_n of_o his_o ambassador_n and_o that_o they_o come_v not_o in_o their_o own_o name_n but_o in_o christ_n stead_n to_o entreat_v we_o that_o we_o will_v be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n 5.20_o 2._o cor._n 5.20_o as_o it_o be_v 2._o cor._n 5.20_o that_o though_o they_o be_v but_o earthen_a vessel_n yet_o they_o bring_v from_o the_o world_n and_o be_v yet_o hide_v to_o those_o that_o perish_v 4.7_o 2._o cor._n 4.7_o 2._o cor._n 4.7_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o prophet_n be_v to_o pronounce_v their_o prophecy_n still_o begin_v with_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_z thus_o say_v the_o lord_n and_o god_n himself_o send_v jeremie_n to_o preach_v say_v that_o he_o have_v put_v his_o word_n into_o his_o mouth_n jere._n 1.9_o 1.9_o jere._n 1.9_o whosoever_o therefore_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o lord_n himself_o as_o our_o saviour_n plain_o affirm_v luk._n 10.16_o he_o that_o hear_v you_o hear_v i_o 10.16_o luk._n 10.16_o and_o he_o that_o despise_v you_o despise_v i_o and_o what_o hope_n can_v they_o have_v of_o come_v unto_o god_n who_o can_v endure_v to_o hear_v his_o voice_n call_v they_o unto_o he_o §_o sect._n 3_o three_o 5.18_o the_o three_o motive_n 2._o cor._n 5.18_o the_o title_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o the_o word_n in_o the_o scripture_n may_v serve_v as_o strong_a argument_n to_o move_v we_o careful_o to_o hear_v the_o same_o for_o it_o be_v call_v the_o ministry_n of_o reconciliation_n whereby_o we_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n 2._o cor._n 5.18_o and_o therefore_o without_o it_o there_o be_v no_o other_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o reconciliation_n we_o remain_v still_o god_n enemy_n it_o be_v call_v the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n 6.15_o eph._n 6.15_o eph._n 6.15_o without_o which_o we_o have_v neither_o peace_n with_o god_n nor_o the_o peace_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v call_v the_o word_n of_o grace_n act._n 14.3_o and_o 18.32_o because_o it_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o the_o lord_n derive_v unto_o we_o his_o grace_n and_o mercy_n 14.3_o act._n 14.3_o and_o all_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n of_o his_o sanctify_a spirit_n 13.26_o phil._n 2.16_o act._n 13.26_o it_o be_v call_v the_o word_n of_o life_n phil._n 2.16_o and_o the_o word_n of_o salvation_n act._n 13.26_o because_o it_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o be_v save_v out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o spiritual_a enemy_n and_o be_v certain_o assure_v of_o everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n 13.44_o matth._n 13.44_o it_o be_v call_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n matth._n 13.44_o because_o thereby_o we_o be_v bring_v first_o into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n and_o afterward_o into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n it_o be_v that_o heavenly_a seed_n whereby_o we_o be_v beget_v unto_o god_n in_o which_o respect_n the_o minister_n thereof_o be_v call_v spiritual_a father_n 4.15_o 1._o cor._n 4.15_o 1._o cor._n 4.15_o and_o therefore_o without_o it_o we_o can_v never_o be_v regenerate_v and_o bear_v unto_o god_n it_o be_v the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n even_o milk_n for_o babe_n 5.12_o 1._o cor._n 3.2_o heb._n 5.12_o and_o strong_a meat_n for_o man_n of_o ripe_a year_n 1._o cor._n 3.2_o heb._n 5.12_o whereby_o we_o be_v nourish_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n and_o therefore_o let_v we_o not_o refuse_v this_o heavenly_a food_n like_o wayward_a child_n when_o our_o heavenly_a father_n offer_v it_o unto_o we_o for_o so_o our_o soul_n be_v hunger-starved_a nothing_o can_v follow_v but_o eternal_a death_n and_o destruction_n it_o be_v the_o physic_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o be_v sick_a in_o sin_n they_o be_v cure_v and_o restore_v for_o as_o christ_n be_v our_o heavenly_a physician_n so_o be_v his_o word_n the_o potion_n which_o he_o give_v to_o purge_v we_o from_o our_o corruption_n and_o the_o preservative_n which_o confirm_v we_o in_o health_n and_o preserve_v we_o from_o the_o leprous_a infection_n of_o sin_n yea_o this_o physic_n be_v so_o sovereign_a that_o though_o with_o lazarus_n be_v have_v lie_v dead_a in_o our_o grave_n four_o day_n that_o be_v continue_v long_o in_o our_o natural_a corruption_n yet_o this_o physic_n be_v apply_v will_v raise_v we_o up_o to_o newness_n of_o life_n and_o therefore_o those_o who_o neglect_v this_o divine_a physic_n be_v subject_a to_o all_o infection_n of_o sin_n and_o be_v infect_v can_v never_o attain_v to_o their_o health_n again_o it_o be_v the_o square_a and_o rule_v of_o our_o life_n from_o which_o we_o must_v not_o decline_v neither_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n nor_o on_o the_o left_a 5.32_o deut._n 5.32_o deut._n 5.32_o and_o therefore_o without_o it_o our_o work_n must_v needs_o be_v crooked_a in_o god_n sight_n it_o be_v a_o lantern_n to_o our_o foot_n 119.105_o psal_n 119.105_o and_o a_o light_n unto_o our_o path_n psal_n 119.105_o whereby_o we_o be_v guide_v in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n which_o lead_v we_o to_o everlasting_a happiness_n which_o be_v take_v away_o we_o shall_v walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o be_v every_o step_n ready_a to_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o eternal_a destruction_n it_o be_v the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n wherewith_o we_o defend_v ourselves_o and_o offend_v our_o spiritual_a enemy_n 6.17_o eph._n 6.17_o eph._n 6.17_o which_o be_v neglect_v or_o not_o skilful_o use_v we_o shall_v lie_v open_a to_o all_o thrust_n and_o blow_n and_o be_v easy_o overcome_v in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v profitable_a for_o all_o use_n as_o be_v the_o only_a ordinary_a mean_n ordain_v to_o convey_v unto_o we_o all_o good_a and_o to_o preserve_v we_o from_o all_o evil_a and_o therefore_o great_a folly_n it_o be_v for_o any_o man_n to_o contemn_v it_o or_o to_o prefer_v before_o it_o vain_a pleasure_n or_o trifle_a commodity_n which_o also_o be_v momentanie_n and_o uncertain_a §_o sect._n 4_o four_o motive_n the_o four_o motive_n the_o manifold_a benefit_n which_o by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v derive_v unto_o we_o may_v serve_v as_o a_o strong_a argument_n to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o diligent_a and_o careful_a hear_n thereof_o for_o first_o thereby_o we_o become_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n out_o of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o be_v ingraft_v into_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v make_v partaker_n of_o all_o his_o benefit_n and_o this_o appear_v eph._n 4.11.12_o 4.11.12_o eph._n 4.11.12_o where_o the_o apostle_n show_v that_o the_o end_n of_o the_o ministry_n be_v for_o the_o gather_v together_o
of_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ._n a_o notable_a example_n whereof_o we_o have_v act._n 2.41_o where_o 2.41_o act._n 2.41_o by_o one_o sermon_n three_o thousand_o soul_n be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v regenerate_v and_o beget_v unto_o god_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o respect_n paul_n profess_v himself_o the_o father_n of_o the_o corinthian_n 1._o cor._n 4.15_o 4.15_o 1._o cor._n 4.15_o and_o without_o this_o regeneration_n and_o new_a birth_n none_o shall_v ever_o enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o our_o saviour_n show_v we_o joh._n 3.5_o three_o 3.5_o joh._n 3.5_o unless_o the_o blind_a eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n be_v illuminate_v we_o shall_v fall_v into_o a_o labyrinth_n of_o error_n and_o never_o find_v the_o hard_a way_n which_o lead_v to_o god_n kingdom_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v that_o heavenly_a light_n which_o shine_v unto_o we_o who_o sit_v in_o darkness_n and_o in_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n guide_v our_o foot_n into_o the_o way_n of_o peace_n as_o it_o be_v luk._n 1.79_o and_o in_o this_o respect_n 13.47_o luk._n 1.79_o matth._n 5.14_o act._n 13.47_o god_n minister_n be_v call_v the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n math._n 5.14_o act._n 13.47_o because_o as_o light_n they_o guide_v and_o direct_v man_n in_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n and_o reveal_v unto_o they_o the_o great_a light_n even_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n christ_n jesus_n four_o through_o faith_n we_o be_v save_v ephes_n 2.8_o neither_o be_v it_o possible_a 2.8_o eph._n 2.8_o that_o without_o say_v we_o shall_v ever_o attain_v unto_o salvation_n for_o this_o be_v the_o condition_n of_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n without_o which_o we_o can_v have_v any_o assurance_n of_o they_o 11.6_o joh._n 1.12_o and_o 3.16.18_o rom._n 14.23_o heb._n 11.6_o joh._n 1.12_o and_o 3.16.18_o moreover_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v of_o faith_n be_v sin_n rom._n 14.23_o and_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n heb._n 11.6_o but_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n be_v the_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o beget_v faith_n in_o we_o as_o appear_v rom._n 10.17_o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v 10.17_o rom._n 10.17_o and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o whosoever_o contemn_v or_o neglect_v the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n they_o refuse_v the_o mean_n of_o faith_n and_o be_v without_o faith_n all_o they_o do_v be_v sin_n and_o can_v please_v god_n neither_o can_v they_o ever_o have_v any_o assurance_n of_o god_n promise_n or_o their_o own_o salvation_n last_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n we_o be_v save_v and_o therefore_o god_n minister_n in_o this_o respect_n be_v call_v saviour_n of_o the_o people_n 1._o tim._n 4.16_o take_v heed_n unto_o thyself_o and_o unto_o learning_n 4.16_o 1._o tim._n 4.16_o continue_v therein_o for_o in_o so_o do_v thou_o shall_v both_o save_v thyself_o and_o they_o that_o hear_v thou_o because_o they_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o god_n who_o he_o use_v as_o mean_n and_o instrument_n in_o work_v the_o salvation_n of_o the_o elect_a and_o therefore_o see_v by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n we_o be_v make_v member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n regenerate_v &_o enlighten_v see_v thereby_o we_o attain_v unto_o faith_n &_o everlasting_a salvation_n let_v we_o as_o we_o love_v our_o own_o soul_n diligent_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o not_o suffer_v ourselves_o to_o be_v hinder_v from_o frequent_v the_o holy_a assembly_n of_o god_n saint_n with_o every_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o base_a commodity_n §_o sect._n 5_o but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n answer_v satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o withdraw_v man_n from_o the_o diligent_a hear_n of_o god_n word_n answer_v that_o though_o the_o word_n preach_v be_v thus_o necessary_a and_o profitable_a at_o sometime_o when_o we_o be_v at_o leisure_n yet_o this_o shall_v be_v no_o reason_n to_o move_v we_o to_o neglect_v our_o business_n or_o abandon_v our_o pleasure_n for_o when_o once_o by_o the_o hear_n thereof_o we_o be_v convert_v enlighten_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n true_a religion_n and_o endue_v with_o faith_n it_o be_v sufficient_a if_o we_o but_o seldom_o hear_v it_o for_o what_o in_o substance_n can_v we_o learn_v which_o we_o have_v not_o already_o learned_a or_o what_o can_v the_o preacher_n teach_v we_o which_o we_o do_v not_o know_v as_o well_o as_o he_o against_o which_o temptation_n which_o be_v so_o common_a and_o pernicious_a it_o behoove_v every_o christian_n most_o careful_o to_o arm_v himself_o and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v we_o know_v first_o that_o this_o neglect_n of_o god_n word_n be_v a_o manifest_a sign_n that_o such_o be_v not_o as_o yet_o true_o convert_v nor_o endue_v with_o any_o measure_n of_o save_v knowledge_n and_o true_a faith_n 10.27_o joh._n 8.47_o and_o 10.27_o for_o whosoever_o be_v of_o god_n hear_v his_o word_n joh._n 8.47_o and_o all_o christ_n sheep_n hear_v his_o voice_n and_o follow_v he_o as_o it_o be_v joh._n 10.3.4.27_o whosoever_o have_v attain_v unto_o knowledge_n faith_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n sanctify_a spirit_n they_o will_v be_v so_o ravish_v with_o the_o excellency_n of_o they_o that_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o they_o to_o content_v themselves_o with_o a_o small_a measure_n but_o still_o they_o will_v labour_v to_o grow_v from_o knowledge_n to_o knowledge_n from_o faith_n to_o faith_n from_o one_o grace_n to_o another_o till_o they_o become_v perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n and_o as_o those_o who_o have_v but_o once_o taste_v of_o some_o delicious_a meat_n be_v not_o satisfy_v therewith_o but_o again_o and_o again_o feed_v upon_o it_o if_o easy_o they_o may_v come_v by_o it_o because_o their_o taste_n be_v exceed_o delight_v therewith_o so_o if_o ever_o we_o do_v but_o true_o taste_v of_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n and_o spiritual_a food_n of_o our_o soul_n the_o word_n of_o god_n we_o will_v not_o rest_v so_o content_v but_o when_o opportunity_n be_v offer_v we_o will_v often_o feed_v upon_o it_o until_o our_o soul_n be_v full_o satisfy_v and_o nourish_v unto_o perfect_a strength_n 12.13_o 1._o cor._n 12.13_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o so_o long_o as_o we_o continue_v here_o our_o knowledge_n be_v but_o in_o part_n and_o our_o faith_n weak_a and_o god_n grace_n but_o in_o small_a measure_n therefore_o we_o will_v continual_o feed_v on_o this_o heavenly_a nourishment_n to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o life_n that_o thereby_o our_o knowledge_n may_v be_v increase_v our_o faith_n strengthen_v and_o all_o other_o grace_n confirm_v and_o multiply_v in_o us._n but_o if_o on_o the_o otherside_n we_o loathe_v this_o heavenly_a manna_n it_o be_v a_o manifest_a sign_n we_o never_o taste_v thereof_o in_o truth_n or_o that_o our_o soul_n be_v exceed_o sick_a in_o sin_n which_o make_v they_o that_o they_o can_v relish_v this_o dainty_a and_o delicious_a food_n and_o that_o we_o have_v not_o knowledge_n faith_n or_o any_o grace_n beget_v in_o we_o neither_o that_o ourselves_o be_v beget_v unto_o god_n for_o as_o the_o child_n be_v beget_v and_o conceive_v do_v present_o draw_v nourishment_n from_o the_o mother_n and_o the_o big_a it_o wax_v the_o more_o it_o desire_v till_o it_o come_v unto_o perfect_a age_n and_o strength_n so_o as_o soon_o as_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v beget_v in_o we_o by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n they_o draw_v nourishment_n from_o their_o spiritual_a mother_n the_o church_n and_o the_o strong_a they_o wax_v in_o grace_n the_o more_o earnest_o they_o desire_v a_o great_a pittance_n till_o they_o become_v perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n and_o therefore_o where_o there_o be_v no_o desire_n of_o this_o food_n there_o be_v no_o regeneration_n nor_o new_a birth_n receive_v god_n word_n the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n often_o to_o be_v receive_v moreover_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o we_o be_v nourish_v and_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n confirm_v and_o increase_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o eat_v of_o this_o food_n once_o or_o twice_o but_o continual_o even_o as_o often_o as_o the_o lord_n call_v we_o to_o this_o spiritual_a banquet_n for_o as_o the_o body_n will_v wax_v faint_a and_o quick_o perish_v unless_o that_o which_o waste_v away_o be_v continual_o supply_v by_o nourishment_n so_o will_v the_o soul_n languish_v and_o wax_v faint_a in_o spiritual_a grace_n unless_o it_o be_v often_o nourish_v with_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n let_v not_o therefore_o satan_n persuade_v we_o that_o seldom_o hear_v of_o god_n word_n be_v sufficient_a whereas_o this_o banquet_n be_v often_o provide_v for_o though_o in_o the_o time_n of_o scarcity_n by_o the_o
extraordinary_a blessing_n of_o god_n we_o may_v go_v with_o elias_n forty_o day_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o one_o meal_n yet_o if_o we_o feed_v no_o often_o when_v the_o lord_n grant_v unto_o we_o plentiful_a provision_n of_o the_o spiritual_a food_n our_o soul_n will_v be_v hunger-starve_v neither_o let_v our_o often_o receive_v of_o this_o heavenly_a nourishment_n cause_v we_o with_o the_o unthankful_a israelit_n to_o loathe_v it_o or_o like_o wayward_a child_n or_o impatient_a sick_a patient_n spit_v it_o out_o of_o our_o mouth_n again_o for_o if_o our_o appetite_n be_v thus_o cloy_v through_o a_o surfeit_n of_o satiety_n sure_o we_o be_v to_o fear_v lest_o the_o lord_n who_o be_v a_o cunning_a physician_n will_v prescribe_v we_o a_o long_a fast_o till_o we_o have_v recover_v our_o stomach_n as_o he_o threaten_v amos_n 8.11_o i_o will_v send_v a_o famine_n in_o the_o land_n 8.11_o amos._n 8.11_o not_o a_o famine_n of_o bread_n nor_o a_o thirst_n of_o water_n but_o of_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v wander_v from_o sea_n to_o sea_n and_o from_o the_o north_n even_o to_o the_o east_n shall_v we_o run_v to_o and_o fro_o to_o seek_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o shall_v not_o find_v it_o §_o sect._n 6_o last_o knowledge_n that_o we_o shall_v often_o hear_v though_o we_o have_v sufficient_a knowledge_n though_o it_o shall_v be_v grant_v that_o we_o have_v attain_v unto_o such_o a_o measure_n of_o knowledge_n that_o we_o shall_v need_v no_o more_o yet_o be_v there_o many_o reason_n why_o we_o shall_v continual_o hear_v god_n word_n with_o as_o great_a diligence_n as_o ever_o we_o do_v for_o the_o end_n of_o our_o hear_n be_v not_o only_o to_o know_v but_o also_o to_o practice_v not_o only_o to_o inform_v our_o judgement_n but_o also_o to_o reform_v our_o affection_n not_o only_o to_o beget_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o we_o but_o also_o to_o nourish_v and_o increase_v they_o not_o only_o to_o teach_v we_o what_o we_o shall_v do_v but_o also_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o do_v thereof_o and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v not_o only_o a_o light_n for_o our_o foot_n to_o show_v we_o the_o way_n but_o also_o a_o prick_n in_o our_o side_n to_o make_v we_o go_v in_o the_o way_n and_o a_o bridle_n in_o our_o mouth_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o wander_v it_o be_v not_o only_o profitable_a to_o teach_v but_o to_o improve_v to_o correct_v and_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a be_v make_v perfect_a unto_o all_o good_a work_n 3.16_o 2._o tim._n 3.16_o as_o it_o be_v 2._o tim._n 3.16_o it_o be_v not_o only_o profitable_a for_o doctrine_n but_o for_o edification_n exhortation_n and_o consolation_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 14.3_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o come_v once_o or_o twice_o to_o the_o assembly_n of_o god_n saint_n 14.3_o 1._o cor._n 14.3_o but_o we_o must_v above_o all_o thing_n desire_v with_o the_o prophet_n david_n that_o we_o may_v dwell_v in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o the_o day_n of_o our_o life_n 27.4_o psal_n 27.4_o to_o behold_v the_o beauty_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o visit_v his_o temple_n psal_n 27.4_o for_o though_o our_o knowledge_n be_v never_o so_o great_a yet_o so_o long_o as_o we_o have_v any_o sin_n hang_v on_o or_o any_o grace_n imperfect_a in_o we_o we_o have_v need_v to_o be_v continual_a hearer_n of_o god_n word_n for_o the_o suppress_n of_o the_o one_o and_o perfect_v of_o the_o other_o chap._n xix_o satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o persuade_v man_n that_o the_o scripture_n be_v not_o god_n word_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o the_o second_o temptation_n which_o satan_n sugge_v into_o man_n mind_n temptation_n the_o temptation_n to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v move_v they_o to_o neglect_v the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n or_o though_o they_o do_v hear_v it_o to_o reject_v it_o through_o unbelief_n he_o thus_o frame_v what_o folly_n be_v it_o to_o take_v such_o pain_n in_o hear_v the_o scripture_n and_o what_o madness_n be_v it_o so_o steadfast_o to_o believe_v it_o see_v thou_o know_v not_o whether_o it_o be_v god_n word_n or_o the_o subtle_a devise_n of_o man_n brain_n to_o keep_v the_o people_n in_o awe_n and_o to_o restrain_v they_o from_o such_o secret_a fault_n as_o other_o humane_a law_n ratify_v and_o confirm_v with_o temporal_a and_o outward_a punishment_n and_o reward_n can_v keep_v they_o from_o because_o the_o law_n of_o prince_n can_v no_o more_o than_o the_o lawgiver_n themselves_o either_o fore_n see_v prevent_v or_o punish_v any_o fault_n and_o offence_n which_o be_v not_o open_a and_o manifest_v why_o shall_v thou_o thereby_o be_v move_v to_o forsake_v thy_o delightful_a sin_n and_o to_o embrace_v unpleasant_a godliness_n to_o abandon_v thy_o pleasure_n and_o to_o undertake_v a_o austere_a and_o strict_a course_n of_o life_n see_v thou_o know_v not_o whether_o the_o scripture_n be_v true_a or_o false_a the_o word_n of_o the_o everlasting_a god_n or_o the_o invention_n of_o mortal_a man_n scripture_n the_o answer_v that_o all_o religion_n depend_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n against_o which_o temptation_n it_o behove_v every_o man_n most_o careful_o to_o arm_v himself_o as_o undermine_v the_o very_a foundation_n of_o all_o true_a religion_n for_o take_v away_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o you_o shall_v open_v a_o wide_a door_n to_o all_o carnal_a worldliness_n beastly_a epicurism_n and_o devilish_a atheism_n they_o be_v the_o only_a true_a rule_n of_o virtue_n whereby_o we_o be_v direct_v to_o choose_v the_o good_a and_o refuse_v the_o evil_a the_o sceptre_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o rule_v all_o the_o subject_n of_o his_o kingdom_n which_o be_v reject_v we_o give_v over_o ourselves_o to_o be_v rule_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o our_o own_o flesh_n the_o light_n of_o our_o eye_n without_o which_o we_o be_v blind_a and_o walk_v in_o darkness_n the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n which_o be_v take_v away_o they_o languish_v in_o all_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o fall_v into_o miserable_a death_n and_o destruction_n and_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o we_o defend_v ourselves_o and_o beat_v back_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n which_o be_v pluck_v out_o of_o our_o hand_n we_o be_v easy_o vanquish_v and_o lead_v captive_a unto_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n §_o sect._n 2_o scripture_n reason_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v indict_v by_o god_n spirit_n 1._o the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o that_o we_o may_v be_v the_o better_o provide_v against_o this_o temptation_n let_v we_o propound_v some_o reason_n whereby_o gainsayer_n may_v be_v convince_v and_o god_n child_n persuade_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o first_o argument_n to_o prove_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v write_v by_o the_o motion_n and_o revelation_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v the_o antiquity_n thereof_o for_o whatsoever_o religion_n be_v most_o ancient_a that_o proceed_v from_o god_n but_o the_o religion_n contain_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o ancient_a and_o therefore_o god_n be_v the_o author_n thereof_o the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v clear_a and_o manifest_a for_o see_v man_n be_v create_v for_o god_n glory_n to_o the_o end_n he_o shall_v worship_v and_o serve_v he_o and_o can_v not_o perform_v acceptable_a worship_n and_o service_n unto_o god_n unless_o he_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o he_o therefore_o that_o man_n may_v attain_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o his_o creation_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o the_o lord_n shall_v from_o the_o beginning_n reveal_v unto_o he_o his_o true_a religion_n whereby_o he_o may_v know_v how_o to_o worship_v and_o serve_v he_o according_a to_o his_o will_n and_o consequent_o the_o first_o and_o most_o ancient_a religion_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n which_o proceed_v from_o god_n and_o all_o other_o be_v false_a and_o counterfeit_a which_o be_v disagree_v and_o repugnant_a hereunto_o see_v god_n will_v be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o constant_a and_o immutable_a the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n namely_o that_o the_o religion_n deliver_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o all_o other_o most_o ancient_a be_v of_o undoubted_a truth_n for_o it_o be_v within_o a_o few_o day_n as_o ancient_a as_o the_o world_n itself_o take_v it_o beginning_n from_o man_n creation_n and_o so_o continue_v in_o a_o constant_a and_o unchangeable_a course_n unto_o this_o day_n now_o all_o other_o religion_n be_v but_o new_a and_o upstart_n in_o comparison_n hereof_o take_v their_o beginning_n diverse_a thousand_o year_n since_o the_o creation_n yea_o even_o the_o god_n themselves_o which_o they_o worship_v which_o intruth_o be_v man_n like_o themselves_o
substance_n in_o the_o proper_a and_o special_a truth_n than_o in_o the_o common_a and_o general_a and_o though_o in_o one_o place_n they_o do_v not_o so_o clear_a the_o truth_n as_o they_o shall_v yet_o they_o do_v it_o in_o many_o other_o and_o therefore_o let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o neglect_v the_o scripture_n because_o there_o be_v want_n and_o imperfection_n in_o the_o translation_n for_o if_o we_o study_v and_o meditate_v even_o in_o the_o mean_a and_o conform_v and_o frame_v our_o life_n according_a to_o that_o truth_n which_o we_o learn_v out_o of_o they_o we_o shall_v attain_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n man_n do_v not_o use_v to_o neglect_v their_o business_n because_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o cloud_n the_o sun_n do_v not_o shine_v upon_o they_o in_o his_o full_a brightness_n for_o that_o light_n which_o they_o enjoy_v be_v sufficient_a though_o not_o so_o glorious_o bright_a as_o when_o it_o shine_v in_o his_o full_a clearness_n so_o we_o must_v not_o neglect_v the_o conform_v of_o ourselves_o to_o the_o scripture_n because_o we_o can_v see_v they_o shine_v in_o their_o own_o glorious_a brightness_n as_o they_o be_v pen_v by_o the_o inspiration_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o original_a language_n for_o as_o well_o may_v a_o painter_n express_v in_o his_o table_n with_o artificial_a colour_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o sun_n as_o any_o man_n live_v can_v express_v that_o perfect_a beauty_n and_o divine_a glory_n which_o shine_v in_o the_o natural_a phrase_n of_o holy_a scripture_n in_o a_o translation_n but_o rather_o we_o be_v to_o enjoy_v the_o benefit_n of_o this_o glorious_a shine_a sun_n of_o god_n word_n though_o the_o brightness_n be_v as_o it_o be_v veil_a and_o somewhat_o shadow_v with_o the_o cloud_n of_o another_o language_n for_o notwithstanding_o through_o it_o they_o shine_v and_o afford_v we_o such_o light_n as_o may_v be_v sufficient_a to_o guide_v and_o direct_v we_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n which_o will_v bring_v we_o in_o the_o end_n to_o eternal_a glory_n and_o endless_a felicity_n chap._n xxiii_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o the_o evil_a life_n of_o the_o minister_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o objection_n which_o satan_n make_v against_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o also_o that_o satan_n by_o disgrace_v the_o minister_n seek_v to_o disgrace_v their_o ministry_n also_o to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v make_v man_n neglect_v to_o hear_v and_o read_v they_o but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v than_o he_o leave_v to_o disgrace_v the_o word_n itself_o and_o seek_v by_o discredit_v the_o minister_n thereof_o to_o make_v they_o to_o contemn_v their_o ministry_n and_o to_o this_o end_n he_o use_v all_o his_o skill_n to_o draw_v they_o into_o some_o gross_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n and_o to_o neglect_v that_o doctrine_n themselves_o which_o they_o teach_v unto_o other_o show_v in_o their_o life_n and_o conversation_n neither_o zeal_n of_o god_n glory_n nor_o desire_n of_o their_o neighbour_n good_a and_o when_o he_o have_v attain_v unto_o his_o purpose_n in_o some_o he_o think_v it_o a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o slander_n of_o all_o and_o a_o notable_a foundation_n whereupon_o he_o may_v build_v a_o most_o pernicious_a temptation_n be_v thou_o so_o foolish_a will_n he_o say_v as_o to_o think_v all_o gospel_n which_o the_o minister_n teach_v that_o all_o truth_n come_v from_o their_o mouth_n &_o that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o more_o easy_a way_n of_o attain_v to_o everlasting_a life_n then_o that_o which_o they_o show_v unto_o thou_o why_o do_v but_o look_v upon_o themselves_o and_o thoushalt_v find_v their_o life_n far_o dissonant_n from_o their_o word_n that_o while_o they_o exhort_v thou_o to_o stricktnes_n they_o take_v their_o liberty_n while_o they_o dissuade_v thou_o from_o take_v thy_o pleasure_n affect_v honour_n set_v thy_o heart_n upon_o riches_n themselves_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n be_v as_o voluptuous_a ambitious_a and_o covetous_a as_o any_o other_o and_o while_o they_o endeavour_v to_o make_v sin_n to_o appear_v unto_o thou_o as_o black_a as_o hell_n themselves_o embrace_v it_o with_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n as_o though_o it_o be_v the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n who_o therefore_o can_v imagine_v that_o they_o think_v as_o they_o speak_v or_o that_o they_o be_v persuade_v that_o heaven_n gate_n be_v so_o straight_o and_o the_o way_n so_o troublesome_a and_o hard_a to_o find_v as_o they_o go_v about_o to_o persuade_v thou_o see_v themselves_o take_v the_o least_o pain_n in_o walk_v in_o this_o way_n which_o they_o prescribe_v unto_o other_o or_o if_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n which_o they_o teach_v then_o sure_o they_o be_v not_o worth_a the_o hear_n who_o in_o their_o life_n deny_v this_o truth_n which_o in_o their_o word_n they_o profess_v for_o what_o hope_n can_v thou_o have_v that_o it_o will_v be_v powerful_a to_o work_v grace_n in_o thou_o see_v it_o have_v no_o power_n to_o work_v it_o in_o themselves_o or_o that_o they_o can_v persuade_v thou_o to_o that_o holiness_n to_o which_o themselves_o be_v not_o persuade_v §_o sect._n 2_o and_o thus_o do_v satan_n seek_v to_o keep_v man_n from_o hear_v of_o god_n word_n temptation_n the_o answer_n to_o the_o former_a temptation_n that_o so_o be_v weaken_v and_o hunger-starve_v for_o want_n of_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n he_o may_v vanquish_v they_o at_o the_o first_o onset_n and_o lead_v they_o captive_a unto_o all_o sin_n and_o be_v still_o hoodwink_v with_o the_o thick_a veil_n of_o ignorance_n he_o may_v lead_v they_o the_o direct_a way_n to_o hell_n and_o utter_a destruction_n and_o therefore_o it_o behove_v every_o one_o to_o arm_v themselves_o that_o so_o they_o may_v beat_v back_o the_o violence_n of_o this_o temptation_n first_o therefore_o imperfection_n minister_n subject_n to_o all_o human_a imperfection_n whereas_o he_o say_v that_o the_o minister_n speak_v not_o as_o they_o think_v because_o they_o do_v not_o as_o the_o speak_v we_o be_v to_o know_v for_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o temptation_n that_o minister_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o same_o corruption_n and_o infirmity_n which_o be_v incident_a unto_o other_o man_n and_o though_o they_o be_v call_v in_o the_o scripture_n angel_n in_o respect_n that_o they_o be_v god_n messenger_n to_o bring_v and_o publish_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o the_o gospel_n yet_o be_v they_o not_o angel_n in_o respect_n of_o their_o purity_n and_o perfection_n but_o as_o they_o be_v flesh_n and_o blood_n subject_a to_o all_o humane_a frailty_n as_o they_o be_v bear_v in_o sin_n and_o defile_v with_o original_a corruption_n so_o be_v they_o as_o prone_a as_o other_o to_o fall_v into_o all_o actual_a transgression_n if_o the_o lord_n restrain_v they_o not_o neither_o must_v we_o imagine_v that_o learning_n and_o knowledge_n do_v endue_v man_n with_o sanctification_n and_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n for_o than_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o they_o by_o our_o study_n labour_n and_o industry_n whereas_o the_o scripture_n teach_v we_o that_o they_o be_v god_n free_a gift_n which_o he_o bestow_v on_o who_o he_o will_v than_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o he_o who_o be_v endue_v with_o most_o knowledge_n and_o learning_n shall_v also_o have_v most_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n whereas_o our_o own_o experience_n teach_v we_o that_o many_o of_o the_o great_a doctor_n of_o the_o world_n spend_v their_o life_n in_o all_o voluptuous_a pleasure_n and_o licentiousness_n what_o then_o do_v these_o man_n teach_v one_o thing_n and_o believe_v another_o sure_o it_o may_v be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o for_o faith_n come_v not_o by_o variety_n of_o knowledge_n neither_o be_v it_o tie_v to_o learning_n but_o it_o be_v the_o free_a gift_n of_o god_n bestow_v as_o well_o yea_o and_o as_o often_o also_o upon_o the_o simple_a fisherman_n as_o upon_o the_o learned_a pharisee_n and_o therefore_o though_o they_o have_v such_o great_a learning_n and_o knowledge_n that_o they_o be_v able_a to_o instruct_v other_o and_o defend_v the_o truth_n against_o all_o opposer_n yet_o may_v they_o be_v as_o hard_o heart_a and_o full_a of_o infidelity_n as_o the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o sottish_a in_o the_o world_n shall_v then_o their_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o infidelity_n move_v we_o to_o call_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n which_o they_o deliver_v into_o question_n as_o though_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n doubtful_a whether_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o no_o god_n forbid_v nay_o let_v god_n be_v true_a and_o every_o man_n a_o liar_n for_o their_o own_o conscience_n be_v convince_v of_o this_o truth_n though_o not_o persuade_v and_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v they_o eye_n to_o see_v it_o though_o not_o heart_n to_o believe_v it_o to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o praise_n of_o our_o salvation_n
may_v whole_o be_v ascribe_v to_o his_o own_o free_a grace_n who_o call_v and_o justifi_v sanctifi_v and_o save_v who_o he_o will_v and_o not_o unto_o humane_a learning_n or_o knowledge_n which_o may_v be_v attain_v unto_o by_o man_n industry_n and_o labour_n it_o may_v be_v also_o that_o these_o who_o teach_v one_o thing_n and_o practice_v the_o clean_a contrary_n corruption_n §._o sect._n 3._o that_o not_o learning_n but_o god_n spirit_n free_v we_o from_o our_o natural_a corruption_n do_v notwithstanding_o believe_v that_o be_v know_v and_o give_v their_o assent_n to_o that_o which_o they_o deliver_v but_o this_o general_a faith_n be_v incident_a as_o well_o to_o the_o devil_n themselves_o as_o unto_o man_n and_o therefore_o those_o who_o have_v it_o may_v nevertheless_o be_v as_o worldly_a carnal_a and_o profane_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v for_o before_o we_o attain_v unto_o a_o true_a justify_n faith_n and_o be_v sanctify_v by_o god_n spirit_n our_o knowledge_n and_o learning_n will_v not_o free_v we_o from_o our_o corruption_n of_o nature_n wherein_o we_o be_v conceive_v bear_v and_o breed_v and_o therefore_o though_o we_o see_v the_o truth_n yea_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v one_o day_n either_o justify_v or_o condemn_v we_o yet_o if_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o join_v with_o this_o knowledge_n the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n make_v it_o effecttuall_a for_o our_o sanctification_n and_o for_o the_o purge_n of_o we_o from_o our_o corruption_n we_o be_v as_o ready_a to_o fall_v into_o all_o sin_n be_v entice_v and_o carry_v away_o with_o the_o riches_n honour_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o world_n as_o if_o we_o be_v still_o most_o sottish_o ignorant_a a_o notable_a example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o solomon_n who_o though_o he_o have_v receive_v such_o a_o measure_n of_o wisdom_n and_o divine_a knowledge_n incredulity_n that_o neglect_n of_o duty_n do_v not_o always_o argue_v incredulity_n as_o never_o mere_a man_n attain_v unto_o the_o like_a yea_o though_o he_o be_v a_o penman_n of_o a_o excellent_a portion_n of_o holy_a scripture_n yet_o the_o lord_n leave_v he_o to_o the_o corruption_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n he_o fall_v most_o grievous_o into_o all_o abominable_a wickedness_n and_o yet_o who_o will_v dare_v to_o say_v that_o solomon_n do_v not_o write_v as_o he_o think_v and_o not_o rather_o that_o he_o be_v carry_v away_o through_o the_o violence_n of_o his_o corruption_n to_o commit_v that_o sin_n which_o his_o conscience_n condemn_v and_o to_o neglect_v obedience_n to_o god_n undoubted_a truth_n so_o david_n who_o be_v endue_v with_o notable_a knowledge_n and_o no_o less_o grace_n fall_v notwithstanding_o most_o fearful_o into_o adultery_n and_o murder_n but_o shall_v we_o therefore_o think_v that_o he_o be_v not_o persuade_v that_o these_o be_v horrible_a sin_n or_o that_o when_o he_o commend_v mercy_n innocence_n and_o chastity_n he_o speak_v not_o as_o he_o think_v and_o peter_n likewise_o deny_v and_o forswear_v his_o master_n who_o before_o he_o have_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n but_o shall_v we_o hence_o conclude_v that_o peter_n dissemble_v when_o he_o make_v that_o notable_a confession_n because_o when_o he_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n he_o utter_o disclaim_v it_o nay_o rather_o we_o may_v certain_o be_v persuade_v that_o david_n be_v carry_v away_o with_o his_o lust_n and_o concupiscence_n and_o peter_n overcome_v with_o fear_n and_o frailty_n and_o both_o draw_v through_o their_o corruption_n to_o commit_v those_o sin_n which_o their_o conscience_n condemen_v but_o leave_v such_o far_o fetch_v instance_n let_v every_o man_n yea_o even_o he_o who_o have_v attain_v unto_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o faith_n and_o sanctification_n enter_v into_o a_o strict_a and_o due_a consideration_n with_o himself_o and_o examine_v his_o own_o conscience_n before_o god_n tribunal_n seat_n and_o then_o let_v he_o tell_v i_o whether_o he_o perform_v obedience_n to_o all_o that_o truth_n which_o he_o know_v and_o believe_v or_o whether_o he_o may_v not_o just_o complain_v that_o our_o corruption_n take_v occasion_n by_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n commandment_n to_o work_v in_o we_o all_o manner_n of_o concupiscence_n that_o he_o do_v those_o thing_n which_o he_o allow_v not_o nay_o which_o he_o hate_v and_o abhor_v that_o though_o he_o do_v not_o only_o know_v the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o also_o be_v delight_v therewith_o in_o the_o inner_a man_n yet_o that_o there_o be_v another_o law_n in_o his_o member_n which_o rebell_v atainst_a the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n 7.8.15.23_o rom._n 7.8.15.23_o and_o lead_v he_o captive_a unto_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n as_o it_o be_v rom._n 7.8.15.23_o and_o if_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o solomon_n david_n peter_n and_o of_o all_o god_n child_n who_o have_v attain_v to_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o knowledge_n and_o sanctification_n let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o that_o we_o may_v safe_o neglect_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n because_o the_o minister_n thereof_o seem_v not_o persuade_v that_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o deliver_v be_v true_a in_o that_o they_o do_v not_o practice_v it_o in_o their_o own_o life_n for_o many_o know_v and_o believe_v that_o truth_n which_o they_o deliver_v be_v notwithstanding_o destitute_a of_o the_o sanctify_a grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o therefore_o whole_o carry_v away_o into_o all_o licentious_a wickedness_n and_o many_o also_o who_o be_v sanctify_v be_v not_o whole_o purge_v from_o their_o natural_a corruption_n be_v ready_a to_o show_v their_o frailty_n and_o infirmty_n to_o all_o the_o world_n though_o they_o know_v acknowledge_v believe_v and_o from_o their_o heart_n embrace_v that_o truth_n which_o they_o teach_v and_o profess_v but_o if_o satan_n can_v thus_o prevail_v nor_o cause_v we_o to_o doubt_v of_o god_n truth_n answer_v §._o sect._n 4._o the_o second_o temptation_n take_v from_o the_o evil_a life_n of_o minister_n answer_v because_o the_o minister_n live_v not_o according_a to_o that_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v then_o he_o will_v persuade_v they_o at_o least_o to_o refuse_v to_o hear_v such_o who_o life_n be_v scandalous_a as_o be_v unworthy_a to_o take_v the_o word_n into_o their_o mouth_n and_o unable_a to_o convert_v or_o amend_v other_o see_v the_o word_n be_v not_o powerful_a which_o they_o deliver_v for_o the_o convert_n and_o refourm_v of_o their_o own_o life_n which_o temptation_n of_o sathan_n be_v most_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a unto_o many_o for_o what_o great_a discouragement_n can_v there_o be_v to_o a_o sick_a patient_n than_o to_o take_v physic_n of_o such_o a_o physician_n who_o can_v not_o cure_v himself_o of_o the_o same_o disease_n or_o who_o will_v willing_o eat_v of_o that_o food_n which_o he_o who_o give_v it_o unto_o he_o so_o loathe_v and_o abhor_v that_o he_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o taste_v of_o it_o or_o who_o take_v delight_n in_o hear_v he_o discourse_n of_o mercy_n chastity_n and_o liberality_n who_o he_o know_v whole_o possess_v of_o cruelty_n lust_n and_o covetousness_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o god_n minister_n shall_v be_v physician_n to_o themselves_o before_o they_o take_v upon_o they_o the_o cure_n of_o other_o that_o they_o shall_v not_o stand_v like_o image_n by_o the_o high_a way_n side_n direct_v other_o in_o their_o journey_n themselves_o never_o move_v foot_n but_o that_o they_o shall_v like_v guide_n go_v before_o they_o and_o instruct_v they_o not_o only_o by_o their_o word_n but_o also_o move_v they_o to_o receive_v their_o instruction_n by_o their_o example_n but_o yet_o let_v we_o take_v heed_n that_o satan_n do_v not_o take_v occasion_n upon_o the_o neglect_n of_o their_o duty_n to_o make_v we_o neglect_v we_o &_o that_o he_o do_v not_o rob_v we_o of_o the_o inestimable_a treasure_n of_o god_n word_n and_o deprive_v we_o of_o this_o heavenly_a manna_n and_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v beget_v hear_v that_o the_o minister_n wickedness_n or_o unworthiness_n shall_v not_o make_v we_o neglect_v hear_v nourish_v and_o increase_v in_o we_o because_o the_o minister_n who_o offer_v it_o unto_o we_o do_v not_o feed_v upon_o it_o himself_o and_o to_o this_o end_n we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n be_v god_n ordinance_n which_o depend_v not_o upon_o the_o worthiness_n of_o he_o who_o deliver_v it_o neither_o be_v it_o make_v void_a and_o uneffectual_a by_o his_o unworthiness_n but_o it_o have_v it_o virtue_n force_n and_o power_n from_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n and_o from_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n who_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o man_n and_o thereby_o illuminate_v their_o understanding_n beget_v faith_n in_o they_o
and_o that_o to_o they_o alone_o this_o speech_n be_v direct_v the_o apostle_n plain_o take_v away_o this_o cavil_n for_o set_v down_o the_o word_n of_o institution_n for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o corinth_n he_o will_v every_o one_o indefinite_o to_o examine_v himself_o and_o so_o to_o eat_v of_o this_o bread_n and_o drink_n of_o this_o cup_n 11.28_o 1._o cor._n 11.28_o 1._o corinth_n 11.28_o and_o thus_o if_o we_o study_v and_o meditate_v in_o god_n word_n we_o shall_v find_v most_o clear_a &_o manifest_a place_n for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o confutation_n of_o all_o sect_n error_n and_o heresy_n but_o what_o if_o this_o mean_n be_v take_v away_o from_o we_o of_o read_v &_o study_v the_o scripture_n either_o because_o they_o be_v only_o to_o be_v have_v in_o a_o unknown_a language_n as_o in_o the_o time_n of_o popery_n or_o because_o we_o can_v read_v and_o have_v no_o body_n to_o teach_v we_o what_o if_o both_o read_n and_o study_v they_o we_o find_v many_o doubt_n and_o difficulty_n and_o diverse_a place_n which_o seem_v to_o favour_v diverse_a and_o opposite_a opinion_n and_o religion_n how_o the_o must_v we_o quit_v ourselves_o out_o of_o this_o labyrinth_n of_o ambiguity_n and_o doubtfulness_n see_v it_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o appeal_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o either_o faction_n i_o answer_v that_o in_o these_o day_n the_o mean_n of_o knowledge_n be_v not_o so_o scant_o but_o that_o they_o may_v enjoy_v they_o that_o labour_n for_o they_o for_o either_o they_o may_v obtain_v the_o use_n of_o the_o scripture_n in_o their_o own_o language_n where_o they_o dwell_v or_o else_o in_o some_o other_o place_n by_o remove_v their_o habitation_n &_o though_o they_o can_v read_v yet_o it_o be_v no_o hard_a matter_n to_o learn_v to_o those_o who_o will_v use_v pain_n and_o diligence_n or_o at_o least_o to_o get_v the_o help_n of_o other_o to_o supply_v their_o want_n and_o defect_n in_o this_o behalf_n but_o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o we_o be_v abandon_v of_o all_o these_o mean_n or_o that_o use_v they_o there_o be_v some_o doubt_n remain_v of_o which_o we_o can_v be_v resolve_v be_v we_o therefore_o destitute_a of_o help_n and_o forsake_v of_o all_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v unto_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n no_o sure_o for_o if_o when_o allother_n mean_v fail_v we_o we_o have_v our_o recourse_n unto_o god_n by_o earnest_n &_o effectual_a prayer_n instant_o crave_v his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o guide_v and_o direct_v we_o we_o have_v a_o merciful_a promise_n that_o he_o will_v hear_v our_o request_n and_o grant_v unto_o we_o his_o holy_a spirit_n as_o it_o be_v luke_n 11.13_o 11.13_o luke_n 11.13_o and_o that_o thereby_o he_o will_v illuminate_v the_o blind_a eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n inlighten_v our_o mind_n with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o take_v away_o from_o we_o all_o prejudice_n of_o opinion_n and_o forestall_a judgement_n so_o as_o we_o shall_v discern_v truth_n from_o falsehood_n and_o god_n true_a religion_n from_o error_n and_o lie_n sect_n and_o heresy_n 16.13_o john_n 16.13_o for_o this_o spirit_n of_o truth_n will_v lead_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v joh._n 16.13_o he_o search_v all_o thing_n 2.10.12_o 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o even_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o to_o this_o end_n we_o receive_v he_o that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o cor._n 2.10.12_o he_o be_v that_o precious_a eye-salue_n wherewith_o be_v anoint_v we_o see_v 3.18_o revel_v 3.18_o who_o before_o be_v blind_a revel_v 3.18_o and_o if_o once_o we_o have_v receive_v this_o anoint_v we_o need_v not_o that_o any_o man_n shall_v teach_v we_o 2.27_o 1._o joh._n 2.27_o for_o this_o anoint_v teach_v we_o all_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v 1._o joh._n 2.27_o though_o therefore_o we_o be_v abandon_v of_o all_o other_o mean_n yet_o let_v not_o satan_n persuade_v we_o to_o neglect_v all_o religion_n because_o we_o can_v discern_v the_o true_a religion_n from_o that_o which_o be_v false_a for_o if_o we_o earnest_o and_o sincere_o labour_v after_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o with_o good_a cornelius_n continual_o implore_v the_o assstance_n and_o direction_n of_o god_n spirit_n we_o shall_v be_v sure_a to_o obtain_v our_o desire_n for_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v it_o and_o he_o will_v undoubted_o be_v as_o good_a as_o his_o word_n chap._n xxv_o satan_n temptation_n take_v from_o our_o unworthiness_n and_o unfitnesse_n to_o hear_v answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o so_o much_o concern_v the_o temptation_n of_o satan_n word_n that_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n shall_v not_o hinder_v we_o from_o hear_v god_n word_n which_o he_o draw_v from_o the_o minister_n to_o discredit_v the_o gospel_n and_o to_o dissuade_v man_n from_o the_o hear_v thereof_o but_o if_o he_o can_v thus_o prevail_v he_o will_v leave_v the_o minister_n and_o come_v to_o the_o party_n themselves_o suggest_v into_o their_o mind_n that_o they_o be_v unworthy_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o innumerable_a number_n of_o their_o sin_n to_o be_v hearer_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o be_v so_o pure_a and_o excellent_a and_o that_o their_o corruption_n be_v so_o great_a their_o understanding_n so_o blind_a their_o memory_n so_o slippery_a their_o will_n so_o perverse_a their_o heart_n and_o affection_n so_o wicked_a and_o profane_a that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v in_o regard_n of_o this_o their_o unfitness_n to_o hear_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o in_o itself_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n will_v become_v unto_o they_o the_o savour_n of_o death_n to_o their_o more_o deep_a condemnation_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o know_v first_o that_o our_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o hinder_v we_o from_o the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n that_o they_o shall_v rather_o serve_v as_o forcible_a argument_n to_o move_v we_o more_o attentive_o and_o diligent_o to_o hear_v it_o because_o it_o be_v the_o mean_v ordain_v of_o god_n to_o pull_v we_o out_o of_o our_o sin_n to_o purge_v we_o from_o our_o corruption_n to_o work_v in_o we_o true_a sanctification_n and_o to_o make_v we_o of_o the_o son_n of_o wrath_n the_o child_n of_o god_n moreover_o though_o we_o want_v faith_n and_o all_o other_o sanctify_a grace_n yet_o we_o be_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o therefore_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n not_o only_o to_o increase_v grace_n where_o it_o be_v begin_v but_o also_o to_o beget_v and_o begin_v it_o where_o it_o be_v want_v so_o that_o we_o must_v not_o only_o hear_v because_o we_o be_v fit_a but_o also_o that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v fit_a who_o before_o be_v unfit_a neither_o be_v we_o to_o imagine_v that_o faith_n and_o other_o grace_n go_v before_o hear_v but_o follow_v after_o as_o fruit_n and_o effect_n thereof_o 10.14.17_o rom._n 10.14.17_o as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o show_v rom._n 10.14_o but_o how_o shall_v they_o call_v on_o he_o in_o who_o they_o have_v not_o believe_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o who_o they_o have_v not_o hear_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o hear_v without_o a_o preacher_n and_o verse_n 17._o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n if_o then_o there_o be_v no_o faith_n without_o hear_v nor_o no_o grace_n without_o faith_n it_o must_v needs_o follow_v that_o before_o we_o hear_v we_o be_v destitute_a of_o faith_n &_o all_o save_a grace_n and_o that_o by_o hear_v they_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o god_n prevent_v we_o with_o his_o grace_n and_o call_v we_o unto_o himself_o not_o only_a when_o we_o have_v no_o desert_n to_o merit_v his_o mercy_n but_o also_o not_o so_o much_o as_o any_o grace_n to_o desire_v it_o and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n say_v 2._o tim._n 1.9_o that_o god_n have_v call_v we_o with_o a_o holy_a call_n not_o according_a to_o our_o work_n 1.9_o 2._o tim._n 1.9_o but_o according_a to_o his_o own_o purpose_n and_o grace_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o through_o christ_n jesus_n before_o the_o world_n be_v the_o truth_n hereof_o may_v appear_v in_o all_o the_o example_n of_o god_n saint_n who_o before_o their_o call_n be_v so_o far_o from_o deserve_v any_o grace_n at_o god_n hand_n that_o rather_o they_o deserve_v confusion_n &_o utter_a destruction_n for_o example_n what_o worthiness_n be_v in_o abraham_n before_o his_o conversion_n who_o live_v in_o gross_a idolatry_n what_o worthiness_n in_o rahab_n the_o harlot_n in_o manasses_n a_o cruel_a tyrant_n a_o wicked_a sorcerer_n a_o horrible_a idolater_n what_o worthiness_n in_o marie_n magdalene_n possess_v by_o
seven_o devil_n or_o in_o matthew_n and_o zacheus_n the_o publican_n or_o in_o paul_n who_o persecute_a the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o a_o word_n what_o worthiness_n be_v in_o any_o of_o god_n saint_n before_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o his_o word_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n have_v call_v and_o convert_v and_o pull_v they_o out_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o corruption_n in_o which_o they_o wallow_v and_o endue_v they_o with_o some_o measure_n of_o his_o sanctify_a and_o save_v grace_n §_o sect._n 2_o second_o hear_v that_o our_o unfitnesse_n to_o hear_v shall_v not_o make_v we_o neglect_v hear_v whereas_o he_o object_v our_o unfitness_n to_o hear_v because_o our_o ear_n be_v dull_a our_o eye_n blind_a our_o heart_n hard_a and_o our_o will_n affection_n and_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o our_o body_n and_o soul_n whole_o corrupt_v and_o disorder_v this_o must_v not_o move_v we_o to_o neglect_v the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n but_o to_o become_v hearer_n thereof_o with_o more_o care_n and_o diligence_n for_o it_o be_v the_o two-edged_a sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o will_v pierce_v and_o make_v way_n for_o itself_o to_o enter_v and_o will_v build_v a_o lodging_n for_o itself_o to_o dwell_v in_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o light_n to_o guide_v those_o that_o see_v but_o a_o precious_a eye-salue_n to_o give_v sight_n unto_o those_o who_o be_v bear_v blind_a it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o heavenly_a dew_n which_o make_v god_n grace_n to_o spring_v in_o we_o but_o also_o that_o divine_a seed_n which_o give_v they_o be_v and_o root_n in_o our_o heart_n it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o preserve_v and_o increase_v that_o strength_n which_o we_o already_o have_v but_o also_o that_o immortal_a seed_n by_o which_o we_o be_v first_o beget_v unto_o god_n and_o bear_v again_o who_o before_o be_v dead_a in_o our_o sin_n and_o that_o excellent_a physic_n of_o our_o soul_n by_o which_o they_o be_v purge_v from_o their_o corruption_n and_o restore_v unto_o health_n which_o before_o be_v deadly_a sick_a in_o sin_n it_o make_v we_o first_o to_o will_v that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o then_o further_o to_o desire_v it_o it_o give_v we_o life_n who_o before_o be_v dead_a in_o our_o sin_n and_o then_o preserve_v this_o life_n it_o beget_v and_o begin_v faith_n &_o sanctification_n and_o all_o other_o grace_n in_o we_o and_o be_v beget_v and_o begin_v it_o strengthen_v &_o increase_v they_o and_o therefore_o let_v not_o satan_n dissuade_v we_o from_o the_o hear_n of_o god_n word_n because_o of_o our_o sin_n unworthiness_n and_o unfitnesse_n for_o as_o it_o be_v a_o notable_a mean_n ordain_v of_o god_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n where_o it_o already_o be_v so_o be_v it_o no_o less_o effectual_a for_o the_o beget_n of_o grace_n where_o it_o never_o be_v there_o be_v no_o wise_a man_n that_o will_v neglect_v his_o trade_n and_o live_v idle_o because_o he_o be_v poor_a but_o rather_o this_o will_v move_v he_o to_o be_v more_o painful_a therein_o as_o be_v the_o mean_n whereby_o he_o may_v become_v rich_a neither_o do_v man_n refuse_v all_o nourishment_n because_o they_o have_v empty_a and_o hungry_a stomach_n but_o do_v more_o earnest_o desire_v meat_n that_o they_o may_v be_v fill_v and_o satisfy_v yea_o even_o those_o who_o stomach_n be_v weak_a do_v not_o altogether_o refuse_v their_o food_n but_o eat_v something_o to_o sharpen_v their_o appetite_n and_o so_o by_o little_a and_o little_a in_o use_v their_o stomach_n they_o get_v stomach_n let_v we_o follow_v the_o like_a practice_n and_o when_o we_o perceive_v our_o beggerlinesse_n in_o god_n grace_n let_v we_o more_o earnest_o ●●bour_n after_o this_o heavenly_a treasure_n and_o precious_a pearl_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v rich_a when_o we_o feel_v our_o emptiness_n of_o all_o virtue_n a●●_n goodness_n let_v we_o more_o eager_o hunger_n after_o this_o spiritual_a m●●na_n that_o we_o may_v be_v fill_v and_o satisfy_v when_o we_o find_v our_o appetite_n weak_a and_o our_o stomach_n indispose_v to_o eat_v of_o this_o heavenly_a food_n let_v we_o a_o little_a force_n ourselves_o against_o the_o appetite_n or_o 〈◊〉_d all_o good_a mean_n to_o quicken_v and_o sharpen_v it_o and_o so_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o the_o often_o we_o eat_v the_o often_o we_o shall_v desire_v the_o more_o we_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o more_o we_o shall_v desire_v to_o hear_v and_o the_o great_a benefit_n we_o shall_v receive_v by_o it_o whereas_o neglect_n of_o hear_v will_v make_v we_o every_o day_n more_o unfit_a to_o hear_v even_o as_o long_a abstinence_n do_v quite_o spoil_v the_o stomach_n chap._n xxvi_o how_o we_o must_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o satan_n temptation_n whereby_o he_o labour_v to_o make_v the_o word_n of_o god_n fruitless_a §_o sect._n 1_o and_o these_o be_v the_o temptation_n which_o satan_n use_v to_o dissuade_v we_o from_o hear_v the_o word_n hear_v that_o satan_n tempt_v we_o to_o careless_a negligence_n in_o hear_v but_o if_o we_o break_v these_o snare_n and_o can_v be_v withhold_v from_o frequent_v god_n holy_a assembly_n then_o he_o will_v labour_v by_o all_o mean_n to_o make_v the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o we_o hear_v fruitless_a and_o uneffectual_a for_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n and_o to_o this_o end_n he_o will_v labour_v to_o work_v in_o we_o a_o negligent_a carelessness_n in_o harken_v to_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v deliver_v and_o this_o be_v usual_o accompany_v with_o dulness_n of_o spirit_n drowsiness_n and_o sleepiness_n or_o if_o we_o set_v ourselves_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o any_o care_n and_o conscience_n to_o profit_v thereby_o than_o he_o will_v seek_v to_o distract_v our_o mind_n with_o wander_a thought_n either_o by_o offering_n and_o suggest_v to_o our_o consideration_n and_o memory_n the_o world_n and_o the_o vanity_n thereof_o as_o our_o affair_n and_o business_n and_o those_o pleasure_n wherewith_o we_o be_v most_o delight_v or_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v by_o cast_v into_o our_o mind_n thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n good_a and_o religious_a if_o they_o be_v think_v upon_o in_o time_n convenient_a to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v be_v distract_v and_o be_v make_v unfit_a to_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o profit_n hear_v that_o to_o resist_v satan_n we_o must_v prepare_v ourselves_o before_o we_o hear_v which_o temptation_n we_o be_v to_o withstand_v as_o be_v most_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a and_o to_o this_o purpose_n there_o be_v something_o require_v at_o our_o hand_n to_o be_v perform_v before_o our_o come_n to_o god_n assembly_n and_o something_o afterward_o before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n there_o be_v require_v due_a preparation_n whereby_o our_o mind_n be_v make_v fit_a vessel_n to_o receive_v the_o spiritual_a treasure_n and_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n for_o if_o we_o come_v into_o the_o congregation_n of_o the_o faithful_a without_o any_o premeditation_n reverence_n or_o regard_n of_o the_o action_n which_o we_o be_v to_o take_v in_o hand_n if_o we_o present_v ourselves_o rash_o and_o unaduised_o as_o if_o we_o go_v to_o a_o play_n or_o to_o dispatch_v some_o worldly_a business_n we_o shall_v hardly_o keep_v our_o mind_n from_o negligent_a wander_a and_o worldly_a distraction_n which_o will_v make_v the_o word_n of_o god_n fruitless_a and_o unprofitable_a §_o sect._n 2_o now_o this_o preparation_n do_v principal_o consist_v first_o in_o the_o purge_n of_o our_o corrupt_a affection_n 4.17_o wherein_o this_o preparation_n consist_v eccl._n 4.17_o to_o which_o duty_n the_o wise_a man_n exhort_v we_o eccl._n 4.17_o take_v heed_n to_o thy_o foot_n when_o thou_o enterest_n into_o the_o house_n of_o god_n that_o be_v be_v careful_a to_o purge_v thy_o affection_n which_o be_v the_o foot_n of_o thy_o soul_n and_o this_o be_v typical_o signify_v by_o the_o outward_a wash_n of_o the_o israelite_n before_o the_o promulgation_n of_o the_o law_n 19.10_o exod._n 19.10_o exod._n 19.10_o where_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o their_o clothes_n and_o body_n the_o purge_n of_o the_o secret_a corruption_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v signify_v and_o represent_v which_o duty_n be_v necessary_o to_o be_v perform_v of_o all_o those_o who_o will_v hear_v the_o word_n with_o profit_n for_o as_o the_o most_o pure_a liquor_n be_v defile_v and_o make_v unprofitable_a for_o use_v if_o it_o be_v put_v into_o a_o pollute_a and_o stink_a vessel_n so_o the_o pure_a liquor_n of_o god_n word_n be_v defile_v and_o make_v fruitless_a unto_o all_o those_o who_o receive_v it_o into_o a_o heart_n pollute_v with_o unclean_a affection_n as_o therefore_o moses_n be_v enjoin_v by_o god_n to_o put_v off_o his_o shoe_n from_o his_o foot_n before_o he_o
may_v tread_v on_o that_o ground_n make_v holy_a by_o god_n presence_n or_o receive_v the_o lord_n ambassage_n to_o his_o people_n so_o he_o require_v of_o we_o that_o we_o put_v off_o the_o shoe_n that_o be_v the_o corruption_n of_o our_o affection_n before_o we_o tread_v upon_o the_o holy_a ground_n of_o his_o church_n there_o to_o hear_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o the_o gospel_n concern_v our_o everlasting_a delivery_n out_o of_o the_o bondage_n of_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n what_o these_o affection_n be_v the_o apostle_n james_n partly_o show_v jam._n 1.19_o namely_o wrath_n 2.1_o jam._n 1.19_o 1._o pet._n 2.1_o filthiness_n maliciousness_n to_o which_o peter_n add_v dissimulation_n and_o hypocrisy_n envy_n and_o evil_a speak_n 1._o pet._n 2.1_o and_o to_o these_o also_o we_o may_v add_v all_o other_o like_a unto_o they_o §_o sect._n 3_o second_o minister_n we_o must_v banish_v all_o forestall_a opinion_n of_o the_o minister_n we_o must_v banish_v out_o of_o our_o mind_n all_o prejudice_n forestall_a opinion_n and_o sinister_a conceit_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o god_n word_n who_o we_o be_v to_o hear_v whereby_o man_n be_v either_o carry_v away_o with_o a_o vain_a admiration_n of_o his_o gift_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n make_v no_o conscience_n of_o feed_v upon_o that_o food_n which_o be_v offer_v like_v unto_o they_o who_o in_o steed_n of_o drink_v of_o the_o wine_n stand_v wonder_v at_o the_o curious_a workmanship_n of_o the_o cup_n or_o else_o with_o a_o prejudicate_a opinion_n of_o his_o insufficiency_n in_o gift_n or_o imperfection_n of_o life_n whereby_o they_o be_v so_o forestall_v that_o they_o think_v nothing_o which_o he_o can_v deliver_v will_v be_v worth_a the_o hear_n cogitation_n we_o must_v expel_v all_o worldly_a cogitation_n three_o we_o must_v expel_v out_o of_o our_o cogitation_n the_o remembrance_n of_o all_o worldly_a businese_n pleasure_n &_o delight_n lest_o they_o distract_v our_o mind_n in_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o so_o choke_v this_o heavenly_a seed_n make_v it_o fruitless_a for_o as_o the_o vessel_n which_o be_v already_o full_a will_v receive_v no_o more_o and_o whatsoever_o be_v power_v into_o it_o spill_v upon_o the_o ground_n so_o the_o mind_n that_o be_v full_a of_o worldly_a meditation_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o receive_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o as_o soon_o as_o it_o offer_v to_o enter_v it_o be_v keep_v back_n and_o so_o perish_v for_o god_n and_o mammon_n the_o holy_a word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o care_n and_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n can_v never_o dwell_v at_o the_o same_o time_n together_o but_o as_o soon_o as_o one_o enter_v it_o expel_v the_o other_o as_o therefore_o man_n purpose_v to_o write_v a_o sermon_n do_v make_v clean_a their_o write_a table_n by_o blot_v out_o that_o which_o be_v write_v in_o they_o before_o for_o otherwise_o there_o will_v be_v such_o a_o mixture_n &_o confusion_n that_o nothing_o will_v be_v legible_a so_o when_o we_o purpose_v to_o carry_v away_o a_o sermon_n fair_a write_v in_o the_o table_n of_o our_o memory_n we_o must_v first_o blot_v out_o all_o worldly_a affair_n and_o business_n otherwise_o there_o will_v be_v nothing_o but_o confusion_n and_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o recall_v any_o thing_n to_o our_o remembrance_n §_o sect._n 4_o four_o want_n we_o must_v examine_v our_o sin_n and_o want_n before_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n we_o must_v search_v and_o examine_v our_o heart_n both_o concern_v our_o sin_n and_o corruption_n as_o also_o concern_v our_o want_n and_o imperfection_n for_o the_o first_o we_o must_v consider_v to_o what_o sin_n we_o be_v most_o addict_v and_o with_o what_o temptation_n we_o be_v most_o easy_o subdue_v to_o the_o end_n we_o may_v bring_v our_o sin_n to_o be_v slaughter_v and_o mortify_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v otherwise_o unable_a to_o overcome_v they_o ourselves_o and_o that_o we_o may_v also_o thereby_o so_o strong_o arm_v all_o part_n both_o of_o our_o body_n and_o fowl_n so_o as_o they_o shall_v not_o in_o time_n to_o come_v bring_v we_o again_o under_o their_o dominion_n and_o as_o citizen_n be_v besiege_v with_o their_o enemy_n do_v learn_v by_o their_o assault_a which_o part_n of_o the_o city_n be_v most_o weak_a and_o so_o with_o more_o care_n and_o labour_n fortify_v it_o with_o man_n and_o munition_n trench_n and_o bulwark_n so_o when_o we_o who_o be_v continual_o besiege_v by_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n do_v learn_v by_o their_o assault_v of_o we_o where_o we_o be_v weak_a and_o the_o enemy_n most_o like_a to_o enter_v than_o we_o must_v go_v into_o god_n armoury_n and_o provide_v sufficient_a weapon_n and_o munition_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v enable_v to_o hold_v out_o and_o make_v resistance_n so_o also_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v of_o our_o want_n and_o imperfection_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v stir_v up_o with_o a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o have_v they_o supply_v and_o hereby_o may_v be_v move_v with_o more_o care_n to_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o such_o food_n as_o shall_v be_v most_o fit_a to_o supply_v these_o our_o want_n and_o amend_v our_o imperfection_n for_o as_o man_n who_o hunger_n earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v satissy_v with_o wholesome_a food_n neither_o will_v they_o willing_o without_o any_o difference_n eat_v of_o all_o meat_n especial_o if_o they_o have_v weak_a stomach_n but_o of_o that_o which_o be_v most_o fit_a and_o best_o agree_v with_o they_o so_o those_o who_o find_v their_o spiritual_a want_n earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v satisfy_v and_o to_o have_v their_o defect_n supply_v and_o for_o as_o much_o as_o all_o food_n contain_v in_o god_n word_n be_v not_o fit_a for_o this_o purpose_n nor_o agreeable_a to_o their_o stomach_n to_o the_o end_n that_o god_n grace_n may_v be_v nourish_v in_o they_o therefore_o they_o will_v wise_o make_v choice_n of_o that_o which_o best_o agree_v to_o their_o present_a state_n and_o apply_v it_o unto_o themselves_o according_o for_o example_n he_o who_o find_v his_o heart_n hard_a and_o secure_a must_v feed_v upon_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o law_n to_o the_o end_n he_o may_v be_v humble_v and_o his_o heart_n mollify_v and_o resolve_v into_o tear_n of_o unfeigned_a repentance_n he_o that_o be_v of_o a_o break_a heart_n and_o contrite_a spirit_n must_v feed_v upon_o the_o sweet_a and_o gracious_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n he_o that_o be_v ignorant_a must_v hunger_n after_o milk_n and_o desire_v to_o be_v instruct_v in_o the_o principle_n of_o religion_n he_o that_o have_v a_o good_a measure_n of_o knowledge_n may_v desire_v strong_a meat_n that_o be_v attend_v unto_o the_o more_o deep_a point_n of_o divinity_n in_o a_o word_n every_o man_n be_v to_o examine_v his_o particular_a state_n and_o to_o search_v out_o his_o great_a want_n that_o so_o come_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n he_o may_v more_o diligent_o apply_v such_o doctrine_n instruction_n and_o exhortation_n as_o shall_v be_v most_o fit_a for_o his_o use_n and_o benefit_n for_o that_o which_o be_v food_n to_o one_o be_v poison_n to_o another_o and_o that_o salve_n which_o be_v fit_a to_o heal_v one_o sore_n do_v make_v another_o to_o fester_v and_o ranckell_n and_o one_o part_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v apply_v to_o man_n of_o diverse_a estate_n do_v work_v diverse_a effect_n one_o it_o feed_v another_o it_o poyson_v one_o it_o heal_v another_o it_o wound_v to_o one_o it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n and_o to_o another_o it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n and_o therefore_o before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o hear_n thereof_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v our_o state_n that_o we_o may_v apply_v and_o make_v profitable_a use_n to_o ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o be_v most_o fit_a to_o nourish_v and_o strengthen_v we_o in_o god_n grace_n last_o and_o most_o especial_o we_o be_v to_o use_v earnest_a and_o hearty_a prayer_n unto_o the_o lord_n that_o he_o may_v open_v our_o blind_a eye_n 119.18_o we_o be_v to_o use_v earnest_a prayer_n ps_n 119.18_o so_o as_o we_o may_v see_v the_o wonderful_a thing_n of_o his_o law_n that_o he_o will_v take_v away_o our_o stony_a heart_n and_o give_v we_o fleshly_a heart_n in_o which_o his_o word_n may_v more_o easy_o be_v imprint_v that_o he_o will_v with_o the_o cyle_fw-la of_o his_o grace_n bow_v our_o stubborn_a will_n and_o make_v they_o flexible_a and_o inclinable_a to_o perform_v obedience_n to_o his_o will_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n that_o he_o will_v sanctify_v our_o affection_n and_o purge_v they_o from_o their_o natural_a corruption_n that_o he_o will_v distil_v the_o heavenly_a dew_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n into_o our_o mind_n and_o barraigne_a heart_n that_o so_o the_o seed_n of_o his_o word_n be_v water_v there_o by_o may_v
yield_v a_o plentiful_a harvest_n in_o grace_n and_o godliness_n §_o sect._n 5_o and_o these_o be_v the_o duty_n which_o we_o must_v perform_v in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o preparation_n now_o after_o we_o be_v thus_o prepare_v and_o have_v present_v ourselves_o into_o god_n holy_a assembly_n presence_n of_o the_o duty_n which_o we_o must_v perform_v in_o hear_v it_o to_o set_v ourselves_o in_o god_n presence_n there_o be_v also_o other_o duty_n to_o be_v perform_v to_o the_o end_n that_o satan_n may_v not_o distract_v our_o mind_n and_o so_o make_v the_o word_n which_o we_o hear_v fruitless_a first_o we_o be_v to_o set_v ourselves_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n who_o look_v upon_o we_o &_o behold_v all_o our_o behaviour_n in_o this_o action_n according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o good_a cornelius_n act._n 10.33_o here_o say_v he_o we_o be_v all_o present_a before_o god_n to_o hear_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v command_v thou_o of_o god_n and_o if_o we_o thus_o do_v we_o shall_v not_o careless_o and_o negligent_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a as_o in_o his_o presence_n before_o who_o the_o earth_n tremble_v and_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o mountain_n move_v and_o shake_v as_o it_o be_v psal_n 18.7_o second_o we_o be_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n preach_v not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o a_o mortal_a man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v in_o truth_n the_o word_n of_o the_o everliving_a god_n god_n 2._o we_o must_v hear_v it_o as_o the_o word_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o thessalonian_o 1._o thes_n 2.13_o when_o say_v the_o apostle_n you_o receive_v the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o you_o hear_v of_o we_o you_o receive_v it_o not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o the_o minister_n be_v not_o his_o own_o spokesman_n but_o the_o ambassador_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v not_o his_o own_o message_n which_o he_o bring_v but_o the_o lord_n embassage_n &_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n prefix_v before_o their_o writing_n these_o &_o such_o like_a speech_n the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o burden_n of_o the_o lord_n thus_o say_v the_o lord_n so_o also_o the_o apostle_n profess_v in_o his_o own_o name_n and_o in_o the_o behalf_n of_o all_o god_n true_a minister_n that_o they_o be_v the_o lord_n ambassador_n who_o in_o christ_n stead_n beseech_v their_o hearer_n that_o they_o will_v be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n 2._o cor._n 5.20_o we_o must_v not_o therefore_o look_v upon_o the_o man_n but_o on_o god_n who_o send_v he_o nor_o on_o the_o earthen_a vessel_n but_o on_o the_o heavenly_a treasure_n which_o it_o bring_v nor_o on_o the_o simpleness_n of_o the_o casket_n but_o on_o the_o precious_a pearl_n which_o be_v contain_v in_o it_o nor_o upon_o the_o meanness_n of_o the_o ambassador_n but_o upon_o the_o glorious_a royalty_n of_o the_o prince_n who_o send_v he_o and_o on_o his_o ambassage_n which_o be_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o word_n of_o salvation_n and_o life_n which_o be_v able_a to_o save_v our_o soul_n and_o then_o his_o foot_n will_v seem_v beautiful_a and_o none_o shall_v be_v better_a welcome_n then_o shall_v we_o not_o contemn_v or_o neglect_v their_o ministry_n but_o receive_v joyful_o reverent_o and_o attentive_o the_o word_n preach_v by_o they_o remember_v what_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v say_v luk._n 10.16_o he_o that_o hear_v you_o hear_v i_o and_o he_o that_o despise_v you_o despise_v i_o and_o he_o that_o despise_v i_o despise_v he_o that_o send_v i_o §_o sect._n 6_o three_o let_v we_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o to_o reverend_a attention_n by_o the_o consideration_n of_o those_o inestimable_a benefit_n which_o be_v derive_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n hear_v 3._o we_o must_v stir_v up_o ourselves_o with_o meditation_n of_o the_o benefit_n of_o hear_v as_o that_o it_o be_v the_o lively_a seed_n whereby_o we_o be_v beget_v unto_o god_n the_o food_n of_o our_o soul_n whereby_o we_o be_v nourish_v unto_o everlasting_a life_n that_o spiritual_a physic_n whereby_o we_o be_v purge_v from_o our_o corruption_n that_o light_n which_o guide_v we_o in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n in_o a_o word_n that_o it_o be_v the_o chief_a mean_n to_o work_v in_o we_o all_o god_n grace_n in_o this_o life_n and_o to_o assure_v we_o of_o everlasting_a happiness_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v and_o if_o these_o and_o such_o like_a meditation_n come_v to_o our_o remembrance_n they_o will_v serve_v to_o stir_v we_o up_o from_o our_o drowsy_a dulness_n and_o to_o hear_v god_n word_n with_o alacrity_n and_o cheerfulness_n fasten_v our_o eye_n on_o god_n minister_n according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n hearer_n luke_n 4.20_o and_o even_o hang_v upon_o they_o like_o the_o child_n on_o the_o mother_n breast_n to_o suck_v our_o soul_n nourishment_n as_o the_o people_n hang_v on_o our_o saviour_n luke_n 19.48_o four_o we_o must_v hear_v the_o word_n as_o if_o we_o be_v nevermore_o to_o hear_v it_o for_o who_o can_v tell_v whither_o he_o shall_v live_v till_o the_o next_o sabbath_n or_o though_o he_o do_v yet_o how_o know_v he_o whether_o he_o shall_v have_v his_o sense_n understanding_n and_o memory_n see_v he_o will_v not_o use_v they_o to_o god_n glory_n and_o his_o own_o good_a or_o though_o he_o have_v yet_o may_v the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v take_v from_o he_o and_o such_o a_o famine_n be_v of_o this_o heavenly_a food_n that_o he_o may_v wander_v from_o sea_n to_o sea_n 8.11_o am._n 8.11_o and_o from_o north_n to_o east_n seek_v it_o and_o shall_v not_o find_v it_o and_o therefore_o whilst_o the_o lord_n speak_v unto_o we_o today_o let_v we_o harken_v and_o not_o harden_v our_o heart_n for_o he_o have_v not_o promise_v we_o to_o morrow_n that_o we_o shall_v hear_v it_o whilst_o we_o enjoy_v this_o heavenly_a light_n let_v we_o look_v upon_o it_o and_o be_v direct_v by_o it_o to_o do_v the_o work_n of_o holiness_n for_o it_o may_v be_v it_o will_v short_o set_v and_o never_o rise_v again_o unto_o we_o and_o then_o what_o will_v follow_v but_o eternal_a darkness_n last_o let_v we_o be_v stir_v up_o to_o attention_n by_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n judgment_n which_o he_o inflict_v on_o the_o contemner_n and_o neglectour_n of_o his_o word_n which_o he_o may_v just_o every_o minute_n pour_v upon_o we_o whilst_o our_o mind_n be_v a_o wandringe_n not_o regard_v that_o which_o he_o say_v unto_o we_o he_o may_v sudden_o strike_v we_o with_o frenzy_n and_o madness_n or_o with_o death_n itself_o and_o then_o how_o fearful_a and_o lamentable_a be_v our_o state_n if_o such_o a_o judgement_n shall_v seize_v upon_o us._n 20._o act_n 20._o let_v we_o remember_v what_o happen_v to_o drowsy_a eutichus_n and_o consider_v with_o ourselves_o that_o that_o which_o befall_v unto_o one_o may_v happen_v unto_o another_o §_o sect._n 7_o and_o thus_o be_v we_o to_o stir_v up_o ourselves_o to_o the_o diligent_a and_o attentive_a hear_n of_o god_n word_n that_o so_o it_o may_v be_v fruitful_a in_o our_o heart_n and_o effectual_a for_o our_o conversion_n and_o call_n unto_o god_n word_n how_o we_o be_v to_o behave_v ourselves_o after_o we_o have_v hear_v the_o word_n but_o when_o we_o have_v go_v thus_o far_o we_o must_v not_o here_o rest_n for_o if_o our_o enemy_n sathan_n can_v no_o hinder_v the_o seed_n of_o god_n word_n from_o fall_v into_o our_o heart_n then_o he_o will_v labour_v to_o steal_v it_o away_o as_o soon_o as_o it_o be_v sow_v that_o it_o may_v never_o take_v root_n nor_o bring_v forth_o any_o fruit_n as_o appear_v by_o lamentable_a experience_n for_o how_o many_o be_v there_o who_o receive_v the_o word_n of_o god_n with_o their_o approbation_n and_o be_v somewhat_o affect_v with_o that_o which_o be_v speak_v and_o yet_o soon_o after_o it_o vanish_v away_o and_o nothing_o remain_v but_o their_o old_a corruption_n and_o whenc_n do_v this_o proceed_v but_o from_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n who_o when_o he_o find_v the_o seed_n of_o the_o word_n not_o thorough_o enter_v into_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o therein_o cover_v like_o a_o ravenous_a bird_n devour_v it_o or_o if_o it_o have_v a_o little_a root_n yet_o he_o choke_v it_o with_o the_o thorny_a care_n of_o the_o world_n so_o as_o it_o never_o spring_v up_o no_o not_o so_o much_o as_o into_o a_o blade_n of_o profession_n or_o if_o it_o be_v so_o far_o grow_v up_o yet_o he_o indeavour_v to_o keep_v it_o from_o ever_o thrive_v further_o by_o cause_v the_o hot_a sun_n of_o persecution_n to_o arise_v and_o with_o the_o heat_n thereof_o to_o make_v it_o wither_v
fort_n we_o have_v bestow_v his_o rich_a treasure_n &_o therefore_o in_o his_o justice_n he_o send_v his_o sergeant_a death_n to_o arrest_v we_o and_o to_o cast_v we_o in_o the_o prison_n of_o utter_a darkness_n there_o to_o remain_v in_o the_o custody_n of_o sathan_n our_o most_o malicious_a jailer_n till_o we_o have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o justice_n which_o when_o we_o be_v altogether_o unable_a to_o perform_v it_o please_v our_o saviour_n christ_n in_o his_o infinite_a love_n towards_o we_o to_o become_v our_o surety_n and_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o answer_v of_o our_o debt_n which_o he_o full_o discharge_v in_o as_o exact_v a_o manner_n and_o measure_n as_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n require_v for_o whereas_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o perform_v perfect_a obedience_n to_o the_o law_n he_o perform_v it_o for_o we_o where_o as_o we_o for_o our_o disobedience_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o death_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n he_o be_v condemn_v for_o we_o and_o bear_v the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n and_o die_v in_o our_o stead_n a_o ignominious_a death_n whereas_o we_o deserve_v the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o to_o be_v keep_v prisoner_n in_o the_o grave_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o death_n he_o endure_v his_o father_n wrathful_a displeasure_n and_o himself_o be_v for_o a_o time_n hold_v captive_a of_o death_n in_o the_o grave_n that_o so_o he_o may_v reconcile_v we_o to_o his_o father_n and_o set_v we_o at_o liberty_n in_o a_o word_n whatsoever_o we_o owe_v christ_n discharge_v whatsoever_o we_o deserve_v he_o suffer_v if_o not_o in_o the_o self_n same_o punishment_n for_o he_o can_v not_o suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n yet_o in_o proportion_n the_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n give_v value_n unto_o his_o temporary_a punishment_n and_o make_v they_o of_o more_o value_n and_o worth_n then_o if_o all_o the_o world_n shall_v have_v suffer_v the_o eternal_a torment_n of_o hell_n see_v therefore_o our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v full_o discharge_v our_o debt_n and_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o his_o father_n justice_n god_n can_v in_o equity_n exact_a of_o we_o a_o second_o payment_n no_o more_o than_o the_o creditor_n may_v just_o require_v that_o his_o debt_n shall_v be_v twice_o pay_v once_o of_o the_o surety_n and_o again_o of_o the_o principal_n neither_o now_o have_v god_n justice_n any_o thing_n to_o show_v against_o we_o for_o the_o law_n which_o be_v the_o hand_n write_v of_o ordinance_n which_o make_v against_o we_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o bond_n whereby_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o bind_v to_o god_n the_o father_n either_o to_o perform_v obedience_n or_o to_o undergo_v the_o penalty_n even_o everlasting_a death_n and_o condemnation_n be_v now_o cancel_v take_v away_o and_o fasten_v to_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v col._n 2.14_o so_o that_o now_o the_o lord_n can_v in_o his_o justice_n put_v we_o in_o suit_n nor_o recover_v any_o debt_n of_o we_o see_v our_o saviour_n christ_n our_o good_a and_o all_o sufficient_a surety_n have_v undertake_v the_o matter_n in_o our_o behalf_n discharge_v our_o debt_n to_o the_o utmost_a farthing_n cancel_v the_o handwriting_n or_o bond_n in_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v and_o by_o the_o law_n acquit_v we_o of_o all_o paimente_n which_o god_n justice_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o law_n may_v require_v of_o us._n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o lie_v hold_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o his_o merit_n by_o a_o lively_a faith_n we_o have_v our_o quietus_n est_fw-la and_o general_a acquittance_n which_o god_n himself_o have_v pronounce_v from_o heaven_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o many_o witness_n say_v this_o be_v may_v well-beloved_a son_n in_o who_o i_o be_o well_o please_v that_o be_v in_o who_o i_o be_o delight_v &_o restful_o satisfy_v &_o well_o content_v mat._n 3.17_o chap._n xxxiiii_o of_o the_o three_o argument_n ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n §_o sect._n 1_o the_o three_o argument_n promise_n of_o god_n truth_n in_o his_o promise_n whereby_o all_o those_o who_o repent_v and_o believe_v may_v be_v assure_v of_o the_o pardon_n &_o remission_n of_o their_o sin_n be_v ground_v upon_o god_n truth_n for_o the_o lord_n be_v most_o true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o and_o all_o his_o promise_n in_o christ_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_n 1.7_o 2._o cor._n 1.20_o apoc._n 1.7_o he_o be_v a_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n and_o whatsoever_o he_o have_v speak_v shall_v be_v accomplish_v so_o that_o though_o the_o heaven_n decay_n and_o wax_v old_a like_o a_o garment_n though_o the_o sun_n lose_v his_o light_n and_o the_o moon_n be_v turn_v into_o blood_n though_o the_o earth_n tremble_v and_o quake_v and_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o mountain_n be_v move_v and_o shake_v yea_o though_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o all_o thing_n therein_o contain_v perish_v and_o pass_v away_o 1●_n matth._n 5_o 1●_n yet_o shall_v not_o one_o jot_n or_o title_n of_o his_o word_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n unaccomplish_v and_o therefore_o whatsoever_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v in_o his_o word_n that_o he_o will_v most_o undoubted_o perform_v for_o he_o be_v jehova_n who_o have_v his_o essence_n and_o be_v in_o and_o from_o himself_o alone_o give_v be_v unto_o all_o thing_n else_o especial_o to_o his_o word_n and_o promise_n but_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o all_o believer_n and_o repentant_a sinner_n that_o he_o will_v in_o christ_n jesus_n pardon_v all_o their_o sin_n and_o will_v receive_v they_o into_o his_o grace_n and_o favour_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o believe_v and_o rest_v upon_o our_o saviour_n christ_n alone_o for_o our_o salvation_n true_o repent_v we_o of_o all_o our_o sin_n we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o though_o our_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o many_o and_o grievous_a yet_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v we_o to_o mercy_n and_o pardon_n and_o forgive_v they_o §_o sect._n 2_o but_o that_o the_o poor_a soul_n wound_v with_o sin_n and_o groan_v for_o weariness_n under_o this_o unsupportable_a burden_n forgiveness_n that_o god_n regal_a stile_n assure_v we_o of_o mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n may_v have_v some_o ground_n whereupon_o to_o rest_v when_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o faint_v &_o some_o spiritual_a weapon_n whereby_o it_o may_v defend_v itself_o and_o beat_v back_o the_o violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n i_o will_v make_v choice_n of_o some_o among_o many_o of_o the_o comfortable_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n make_v unto_o all_o repentant_a sinner_n first_o therefore_o let_v we_o consider_v that_o when_o the_o lord_n like_o a_o mighty_a monarch_n will_v set_v out_o his_o own_o stile_n as_o it_o be_v in_o fair_a text_n letter_n to_o be_v read_v of_o all_o his_o subject_n he_o thus_o proclaym_v it_o exod._n 34.6_o the_o lord_n the_o lord_n strong_a merciful_a and_o gracious_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n and_o truth_n 7._o reserve_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o forgive_a iniquity_n and_o transgression_n and_o sinner_n where_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o great_a part_n of_o his_o stile_n consist_v of_o his_o mercy_n gratiousnes_n long_o suffer_v goodness_n &_o readiness_n to_o forgive_v the_o iniquity_n of_o repentant_a sinner_n as_o therefore_o we_o can_v offer_v a_o great_a disgrace_n to_o a_o mighty_a prince_n then_o to_o deny_v or_o call_v into_o question_n any_o part_n of_o his_o title_n or_o regal_a stile_n so_o we_o can_v more_o dishonour_v the_o prince_n of_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a king_n of_o heaven_n &_o earth_n then_o by_o doubt_v of_o or_o deny_v any_o of_o these_o his_o title_n which_o in_o his_o own_o stile_n he_o have_v attribute_v unto_o himself_o see_v then_o he_o profess_v and_o proclaym_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o gracious_a merciful_a long_a suffering_n god_n who_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o forgive_v repentant_a sinner_n when_o they_o implore_v his_o mercy_n let_v we_o not_o offer_v god_n that_o disgrace_n to_o rob_v he_o of_o any_o part_n of_o his_o glorious_a title_n nor_o deprive_v our_o soul_n of_o that_o true_a comfort_n which_o the_o lord_n by_o they_o in_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n have_v grant_v unto_o us._n §_o sect._n 3_o moreover_o this_o be_v one_o main_a part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n sin_n that_o god_n ●ovenant_n assure_v we_o of_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n which_o the_o lord_n profess_v that_o he_o will_v make_v with_o his_o church_n and_o people_n namely_o that_o he_o will_v forgive_v their_o iniquity_n and_o remember_v their_o sin_n no_o more_o jer._n 31.34_o the_o counterpane_n of_o which_o covenant_n we_o have_v heb._n 10.16.17_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o on_o our_o part_n perform_v the_o condition_n of_o this_o covenant_n
our_o stony_a heart_n and_o give_v we_o heart_n of_o flesh_n as_o he_o promise_v ezec._n 11.19_o and_o break_v up_o these_o fallow_a ground_n fit_a in_o themselves_o to_o bring_v forth_o no_o fruit_n but_o weed_n and_o thistle_n that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v prepare_v to_o receive_v the_o seed_n of_o his_o word_n and_o be_v make_v fruitful_a in_o all_o grace_n and_o thus_o our_o stubborn_a &_o rebellious_a heart_n be_v soften_v when_o as_o we_o particular_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n whereby_o first_o we_o come_v to_o the_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v of_o our_o fin_n original_a and_o actual_a second_o our_o heart_n be_v prick_v and_o our_o conscience_n wound_v by_o apprehend_v and_o apply_v to_o our_o guilty_a soul_n the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o those_o fearful_a punishment_n prepare_v for_o the_o wicked_a three_o see_v this_o our_o misery_n and_o find_v no_o mean_n of_o our_o own_o how_o we_o may_v come_v out_o of_o this_o wretched_a estate_n we_o be_v bring_v to_o despair_v of_o our_o own_o strength_n righteousness_n and_o satisfaction_n find_v they_o of_o no_o virtue_n for_o our_o justification_n by_o all_o which_o be_v thorough_o humble_v and_o cast_v down_o in_o ourselves_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v reveal_v unto_o we_o a_o way_n how_o we_o may_v escape_v out_o of_o this_o miserable_a estate_n by_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o christ_n jesus_n and_o all_o his_o merit_n and_o obedience_n by_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n after_o which_o the_o humble_a sinner_n see_v his_o own_o want_n and_o misery_n by_o the_o law_n and_o perceive_v that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n be_v so_o rich_a in_o merit_n that_o he_o can_v cansy_o supply_v all_o his_o defect_n and_o so_o gracious_a and_o powerful_a that_o he_o can_v and_o will_v free_v he_o out_o of_o his_o wretchedness_n he_o do_v plain_o discern_v that_o he_o stand_v exceed_o in_o need_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o righteousness_n after_o which_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o want_n there_o be_v beget_v in_o he_o a_o carnest_n and_o hunger_a desire_n to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o jesus_n christ_n his_o righteousness_n merit_n obedience_n and_o of_o all_o those_o inestimable_a benefit_n which_o be_v purchase_v by_o they_o and_o last_o he_o be_v move_v to_o appeal_v from_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n plead_v not_o his_o own_o righteousness_n or_o satisfaction_n but_o christ_n merit_n and_o obedience_n the_o three_o and_o last_o mean_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n be_v a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n mean_n the_o 3._o mean_n whereby_o we_o apprehend_v christ_n jesus_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n give_v and_o apply_v unto_o we_o by_o god_n spirit_n rest_v upon_o he_o alone_o for_o our_o justification_n and_o salvation_n .._o §_o sect._n 4_o call_v that_o all_o 〈◊〉_d find_v the_o former_a mean_n powerful_a in_o they_o be_v effectual_o call_v and_o these_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n which_o whosoever_o have_v find_v powerful_a work_n in_o themselves_o for_o their_o conversion_n after_o the_o manner_n before_o speak_v of_o they_o may_v most_o certain_o assure_v themselves_o that_o they_o be_v effectual_o call_v and_o be_v already_o partaker_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o all_o his_o benefit_n if_o therefore_o the_o lord_n while_o we_o do_v lie_v freeze_v in_o the_o dregs_n of_o our_o sin_n without_o all_o desire_n of_o grace_n or_o mean_n to_o escape_v our_o sin_n without_o all_o desire_n of_o grace_n or_o mean_n to_o escape_v out_o of_o our_o misery_n have_v vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o holy_a word_n if_o by_o the_o law_n he_o have_v reveal_v our_o sin_n unto_o we_o and_o the_o punishment_n due_a unto_o they_o and_o if_o by_o the_o gospel_n he_o have_v show_v we_o the_o way_n how_o we_o may_v come_v out_o of_o this_o misery_n if_o by_o the_o inward_a cooperation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n he_o have_v open_v our_o deaf_a care_n and_o with_o this_o precious_a eyesalue_n have_v anoint_v the_o blind_a eye_n of_o our_o understanding_n so_o that_o we_o have_v attentive_o hear_v and_o in_o some_o measure_n understand_v those_o principle_n of_o our_o christian_n religion_n which_o have_v in_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o word_n be_v deliver_v unto_o we_o if_o our_o heart_n have_v be_v soften_v and_o pierce_v and_o our_o conscience_n wound_v with_o the_o sight_n and_o sense_n of_o our_o sin_n if_o despair_v in_o our_o own_o strength_n righteousness_n and_o all_o other_o mean_n of_o our_o own_o we_o have_v go_v out_o of_o ourselves_o and_o rest_v and_o rely_v upon_o christ_n jesus_n alone_o for_o our_o justification_n and_o salvation_n then_o be_v we_o without_o all_o doubt_n effectual_o call_v and_o be_v in_o the_o number_n of_o god_n church_n and_o people_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n do_v appertain_v §_o sect._n 5_o thereof_o that_o we_o may_v know_v that_o we_o be_v effectual_o call_v by_o consider_v the_o several_a part_n thereof_o second_o we_o may_v come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o our_o effectual_a call_n by_o consider_v the_o several_a part_n thereof_o the_o first_o be_v our_o selection_n and_o separation_n out_o of_o the_o corrupt_a mass_n of_o mankind_n whereby_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o though_o we_o be_v in_o the_o world_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o we_o neither_o love_v it_o nor_o the_o world_n we_o and_o this_o our_o saviour_n show_v joh._n 15.19_o if_o say_v he_o he_o be_v of_o the_o world_n the_o world_n will_v love_v his_o own_o but_o because_o you_o be_v not_o of_o the_o world_n but_o i_o have_v choose_v you_o out_o of_o the_o world_n therefore_o the_o world_n hate_v you_o 2.15_o 1._o joh._n 2.15_o and_o the_o apostle_n john_n affirm_v that_o if_o any_o man_n love_v the_o world_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n be_v not_o in_o he_o 1._o joh._n 2.15_o and_o the_o apostle_n james_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o amity_n of_o the_o world_n be_v enmity_n with_o god_n 4.4_o jam._n 4.4_o and_o therefore_o whosoever_o will_v be_v a_o friend_n of_o the_o world_n make_v himself_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n if_o therefore_o our_o love_n and_o affection_n be_v wean_v in_o some_o good_a measure_n from_o the_o world_n and_o fix_v on_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a thing_n if_o we_o cease_v to_o be_v citizen_n of_o the_o world_n 3.29_o phil._n 3.29_o and_o begin_v to_o have_v our_o conversation_n in_o in_o heaven_n from_o whence_o we_o look_v for_o a_o saviour_n even_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o if_o the_o world_n begin_v to_o hate_v and_o scorn_v we_o then_o may_v we_o be_v assure_v that_o we_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o world_n and_o entertain_v into_o god_n church_n and_o family_n §_o sect._n 6_o he_o satan_n tentation_n answer_v whereby_o he_o persuade_v the_o christian_n that_o he_o love_v the_o world_n and_o the_o world_n he_o but_o here_o the_o tempter_n will_v object_v that_o by_o this_o it_o plain_o appear_v that_o we_o be_v not_o yet_o effectual_o call_v nor_o separate_v from_o the_o world_n because_o we_o still_o love_v the_o world_n affect_v and_o desire_v the_o vain_a pleasure_n honour_v &_o riches_n thereof_o yea_o and_o also_o love_v those_o who_o be_v mere_a worldling_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o world_n also_o love_v we_o give_v we_o good_a countenance_n and_o perform_v other_o duty_n unto_o us._n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o suggestion_n we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o ourselves_o and_o ourselves_o for_o while_o we_o continue_v in_o this_o life_n we_o be_v partly_o flesh_n and_o partly_o spirit_n and_o as_o there_o be_v great_a enmity_n between_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o world_n so_o be_v there_o great_a amity_n between_o the_o world_n and_o the_o flesh_n so_o far_o forth_o therefore_o as_o we_o be_v still_o carnal_a and_o corrupt_a fle_v the_o world_n love_v we_o but_o as_o much_o as_o be_v spiritual_a and_o regenerate_v so_o much_o the_o world_n hate_v and_o abhor_v moreover_o we_o may_v general_o be_v consider_v as_o man_n or_o more_o special_o as_o we_o be_v christian_a man_n in_o the_o first_o respect_n the_o world_n that_o be_v wicked_a worldling_n may_v love_v we_o for_o some_o natural_a part_n or_o mere_a moral_a virtue_n or_o else_o in_o common_a humanity_n as_o member_n of_o the_o same_o civil_a or_o politic_a body_n but_o as_o we_o be_v christian_n who_o have_v give_v our_o name_n unto_o god_n &_o divote_v ourselves_o to_o his_o worship_n and_o service_n the_o world_n hate_v we_o and_o our_o profession_n religion_n and_o all_o the_o fruit_n and_o exercise_n of_o sanctification_n and_o holiness_n so_o that_o though_o in_o other_o natural_a worldly_a and_o more_o civil_a respect_n
overrule_v we_o and_o after_o also_o bear_v some_o sway_n in_o we_o even_o when_o we_o be_v regenerate_v till_o with_o all_o our_o other_o corruption_n we_o lay_v this_o aside_o also_o by_o death_n and_o this_o appear_v in_o the_o example_n of_o the_o prophet_n david_n who_o desire_v the_o lord_n to_o create_v in_o he_o a_o clean_a hart_n &_o to_o renew_v a_o right_a spirit_n within_o he_o 51.10_o psal_n 51.10_o psal_n 51.10_o in_o which_o word_n he_o impli_v that_o his_o hardness_n of_o heart_n be_v so_o great_a and_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o so_o abominable_a that_o it_o be_v even_o past_o mend_v and_o therefore_o he_o do_v not_o pray_v the_o lord_n to_o purge_v and_o reform_v his_o old_a hart_n 11.19_o ezech._n 11.19_o but_o to_o create_v a_o new_a one_o and_o to_o take_v quite_o away_o his_o stony_a hart_n &_o to_o bestow_v upon_o he_o a_o hart_n of_o flesh_n as_o though_o his_o hart_n be_v like_o a_o building_n exceed_v ruinous_a which_o can_v no_o long_o be_v repair_v unless_o it_o be_v raze_v down_o even_o to_o the_o foundation_n and_o all_o new_a build_v up_o again_o so_o whereas_o he_o pray_v the_o lord_n to_o renew_v his_o spirit_n in_o he_o he_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o he_o have_v lose_v the_o feel_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n cry_v in_o his_o hart_n abba_n father_n and_o that_o there_o be_v in_o he_o such_o a_o intermission_n &_o surcease_v of_o the_o action_n &_o fruit_n thereof_o that_o it_o seem_v utter_o quench_v and_o depart_v from_o he_o so_o else_o where_o he_o pray_v unto_o the_o lord_n to_o quicken_v he_o according_a to_o his_o love_a kindness_n 119.88_o psal_n 119.88_o that_o he_o may_v keep_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o mouth_n whereby_o he_o intimate_v his_o drowsiness_n and_o deadness_n in_o god_n service_n the_o prophet_n esay_n likewise_o in_o the_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o the_o people_n complain_v thus_o esay_n 63.17_o 63.17_o esay_n 63.17_o o_o lord_n why_o have_v thou_o make_v we_o to_o err_v from_o thy_o way_n and_o harden_v our_o hart_n from_o thy_o fear_n by_o all_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o even_o the_o dear_a child_n of_o god_n do_v oftentimes_o see_v and_o feel_v to_o their_o great_a grief_n their_o hardness_n of_o hart_n which_o be_v join_v with_o exceed_a dulness_n and_o drowsiness_n in_o god_n service_n yea_o in_o truth_n this_o kind_n of_o hardness_n of_o hart_n be_v incident_a unto_o they_o alone_o for_o while_o man_n be_v worldly_a and_o carnal_a though_o their_o heart_n be_v most_o hard_a and_o obdurate_a yet_o they_o do_v not_o discern_v it_o neither_o be_v they_o any_o whit_n displease_v with_o their_o estate_n but_o fond_o flatter_v themselves_o imagine_v that_o they_o be_v in_o exceed_v good_a case_n and_o very_o devout_a in_o god_n service_n which_o indeed_o as_o they_o perform_v it_o be_v mere_o formal_a customable_a rather_o then_o conscionable_a in_o show_n and_o external_a but_o not_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n but_o when_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n do_v pull_v of_o the_o thick_a skin_n of_o carnal_a security_n from_o of_o their_o heart_n and_o cause_v the_o seal_n of_o ignorance_n to_o fall_v from_o their_o eye_n then_o and_o not_o before_o do_v they_o plain_o discern_v and_o sensible_o feel_v that_o huge_a mass_n of_o inbred_a corruption_n their_o dulness_n and_o drowsiness_n in_o god_n service_n their_o hardness_n of_o hart_n and_o impaenitencie_n and_o now_o they_o be_v much_o vex_v and_o grieve_v with_o they_o which_o in_o former_a time_n never_o trouble_v they_o and_o therefore_o let_v not_o such_o be_v dismay_v nor_o debar_v their_o soul_n of_o that_o consolation_n which_o of_o right_n belong_v to_o they_o for_o flesh_n and_o blood_n have_v not_o reveal_v this_o their_o corruption_n hardness_n of_o hart_n dulness_n and_o deadness_n in_o god_n service_n but_o the_o good_a spirit_n of_o god_n which_o have_v begin_v already_o to_o work_v in_o they_o show_v they_o their_o corruption_n and_o move_v they_o to_o a_o unfeigned_a dislike_n of_o they_o and_o therefore_o they_o may_v assure_v themselves_o that_o he_o who_o have_v begin_v this_o good_a work_n in_o they_o will_v also_o bring_v it_o in_o his_o good_a time_n to_o perfection_n only_o as_o the_o psalmist_n exhort_v let_v they_o tarry_v the_o lord_n leisure_n 1.6_o phil._n 1.6_o wait_v upon_o and_o trust_v in_o he_o and_o he_o shall_v comfort_v their_o heart_n §_o sect._n 2_o now_o this_o sensible_a or_o discern_a hardness_n of_o hart_n be_v also_o of_o two_o sort_n soften_v 2._o sort_n of_o sensible_a hardness_n of_o hart_n the_o first_o join_v with_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v soften_v the_o first_o be_v of_o they_o who_o careful_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n and_o endeavour_n with_o all_o diligence_n to_o better_v their_o estate_n which_o they_o see_v to_o be_v most_o miserable_a and_o to_o mollify_v their_o hard_a heart_n and_o to_o attain_v unto_o hearty_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n which_o who_o so_o do_v he_o may_v assure_v himself_o that_o he_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o in_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n for_o earnest_o to_o desire_v repentance_n and_o careful_o to_o use_v the_o mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v attain_v thereunto_o to_o be_v displease_v with_o our_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o to_o labour_n that_o it_o may_v be_v mollify_v to_o be_v sorry_a that_o we_o can_v be_v no_o more_o sorry_a and_o to_o be_v displease_v with_o ourselves_o because_o we_o can_v no_o more_o be_v displease_v with_o our_o sin_n be_v very_o acceptable_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n though_o we_o see_v but_o a_o little_a progress_n in_o godliness_n and_o but_o a_o small_a increase_n of_o repentance_n which_o we_o desire_v in_o great_a measure_n for_o the_o lord_n esteem_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n and_o the_o affection_n for_o the_o action_n and_o we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o if_o on_o our_o part_n we_o be_v not_o want_v in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o be_v want_v on_o his_o part_n to_o supply_v our_o want_n and_o to_o satisfy_v all_o our_o godly_a desire_n of_o this_o hardness_n of_o heart_n which_o very_o often_o befall_v the_o dear_a of_o god_n child_n we_o have_v many_o example_n 77.2_o example_n of_o this_o hardness_n of_o heart_n psal_n 77.2_o the_o prophet_n david_n thus_o complain_v psal_n 77.2_o in_o the_o day_n of_o my_o trouble_n i_o seek_v the_o lord_n my_o sore_n run_v and_o cease_v not_o in_o the_o night_n my_o soul_n refuse_v comfort_n 3._o i_o do_v think_v upon_o god_n and_o as_o trouble_v i_o pray_v and_o my_o spirit_n be_v full_a of_o anguish_n 4._o thou_o keep_v my_o eye_n wake_v i_o be_v astonish_v and_o can_v not_o speak_v so_o the_o church_n complain_v thus_o cant._n 3.1_o 5.6_o cant_n 3.1_o and_o 5.6_o in_o my_o bed_n i_o seek_v he_o by_o night_n who_o my_o soul_n love_v i_o seek_v he_o but_o i_o find_v he_o not_o and_o chap._n 5._o ver_fw-la 6._o i_o open_v to_o my_o well-beloved_a but_o my_o well-beloved_a be_v go_v and_o pass_v my_o heart_n be_v go_v when_o he_o do_v speak_v i_o seek_v he_o but_o i_o can_v not_o find_v he_o i_o call_v he_o but_o he_o answer_v i_o not_o whereby_o it_o be_v manifest_a that_o even_o the_o dear_a saint_n of_o god_n be_v often_o time_n destitute_a of_o all_o comfort_n and_o void_a of_o all_o feel_n of_o god_n favour_n and_o of_o the_o powerful_a work_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n which_o they_o have_v receive_v though_o they_o use_v the_o mean_n appoint_v of_o god_n for_o the_o stir_v up_o and_o increase_v of_o grace_n in_o they_o which_o come_v to_o pass_v by_o reason_n of_o their_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o drowsy_a dulness_n of_o spirit_n in_o these_o spiritual_a exercise_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o of_o god_n child_n do_v grieous_o afflict_v their_o soul_n because_o they_o see_v these_o their_o corruption_n and_o imperfection_n and_o hereby_o often_o time_n be_v move_v to_o think_v that_o they_o be_v destitute_a of_o faith_n and_o of_o all_o save_a grace_n of_o god_n sanctify_a spirit_n because_o though_o they_o use_v the_o mean_n ordain_v of_o god_n for_o the_o beget_n and_o increase_v of_o grace_n in_o they_o yet_o they_o can_v perceive_v any_o fruit_n that_o come_v thereby_o nor_o feel_v in_o their_o soul_n any_o true_a comfort_n or_o joy_n in_o these_o spiritual_a exercise_n for_o example_n some_o complain_n that_o though_o they_o continual_o hear_v the_o word_n yet_o they_o feel_v no_o increase_n of_o any_o grace_n no_o more_o knowledge_n no_o more_o faith_n no_o more_o zeal_n of_o god_n glory_n no_o more_o mortification_n of_o their_o old_a corruption_n
nor_o any_o reformation_n at_o all_o of_o their_o former_a sinful_a life_n and_o therefore_o they_o think_v that_o they_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n without_o any_o profit_n nay_o that_o the_o more_o they_o hear_v it_o the_o more_o wicked_a and_o rebellious_a they_o be_v and_o that_o for_o this_o cause_n it_o be_v much_o better_o not_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n at_o all_o for_o as_o much_o as_o it_o will_v but_o aggravate_v their_o sin_n and_o in_o crease_n their_o condemnation_n for_o he_o that_o know_v his_o master_n will_n and_o do_v it_o not_o 12.47_o luk._n 12.47_o shall_v be_v beat_v with_o many_o stripe_n §_o sect._n 3_o but_o let_v not_o such_o poor_a mourn_a soul_n deprive_v themselves_o of_o that_o true_a comfort_n which_o of_o right_n belong_v to_o they_o word_n consolation_n for_o such_o as_o complain_v of_o their_o imperfection_n in_o hear_v the_o word_n and_o to_o this_o end_n let_v they_o know_v first_o that_o this_o be_v a_o usual_a complaint_n of_o those_o child_n of_o god_n which_o profit_n most_o in_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n though_o in_o truth_n they_o do_v therein_o deceive_v themselves_o for_o in_o complain_v that_o they_o profit_v not_o they_o show_v they_o profitt_a for_o whereas_o man_n natural_o blind_v with_o self_n love_n and_o carnal_a security_n never_o discern_v any_o such_o want_n and_o corruption_n in_o themselves_o and_o therefore_o though_o they_o profit_v nothing_o by_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n yet_o it_o never_o trouble_v they_o nay_o they_o imagine_v that_o it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o present_v their_o body_n into_o god_n assembly_n and_o to_o hear_v god_n word_n with_o their_o outward_a ear_n though_o they_o understand_v it_o not_o nor_o retain_v it_o in_o memory_n nor_o bring_v forth_o any_o fruit_n thereof_o these_o humble_a soul_n by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n be_v free_v from_o this_o self_n love_n and_o carnal_a security_n and_o have_v the_o blind_a eye_n of_o their_o understanding_n open_v so_o as_o they_o see_v their_o fault_n and_o corruption_n and_o have_v their_o hard_a heart_n soften_v so_o as_o they_o be_v grieve_v and_o displease_v with_o they_o &_o their_o will_n also_o be_v in_o some_o good_a measure_n sanctify_v so_o that_o they_o earnest_o desire_v to_o be_v free_v from_o their_o corruption_n and_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n with_o more_o profit_n whereby_o it_o appear_v that_o though_o they_o can_v profit_v so_o much_o as_o they_o desire_v yet_o they_o have_v make_v a_o good_a progress_n and_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o good_a time_n will_v perfect_v that_o good_a work_n which_o he_o have_v begin_v in_o they_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o have_v wrought_v in_o they_o this_o desire_n of_o profit_v by_o hear_v the_o word_n will_v also_o accomplish_v it_o &_o so_o open_v their_o dull_a ear_n and_o soften_v their_o hard_a heart_n that_o they_o shall_v profit_v and_o reap_v manifold_a fruit_n of_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o word_n which_o be_v sow_v in_o the_o furrow_n of_o their_o heart_n in_o the_o mean_a while_o the_o lord_n may_v in_o his_o heavenly_a wisdom_n feed_v they_o for_o a_o time_n with_o a_o spare_a hand_n to_o the_o end_n that_o he_o may_v true_o humble_v they_o under_o the_o sight_n and_o sense_n of_o their_o corruption_n and_o that_o he_o may_v hereby_o so_o sharpen_v their_o appetite_n that_o they_o may_v with_o more_o hunger_a desire_n and_o earnest_a endeavour_n feed_v upon_o the_o heavenly_a manna_n of_o his_o word_n but_o as_o this_o shall_v increase_v their_o diligence_n so_o it_o shall_v not_o decrease_v their_o hope_n and_o comfort_n for_o most_o assure_o when_o the_o lord_n have_v a_o while_n whet_v their_o stomach_n and_o by_o pull_v back_o his_o hand_n move_v they_o more_o earnest_o to_o desire_v and_o more_o high_o to_o esteem_v this_o precious_a food_n of_o their_o soul_n he_o will_v full_o satisfy_v their_o hunger_a desire_n nourish_v they_o in_o all_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o make_v they_o who_o be_v but_o babe_n strong_a man_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n let_v they_o not_o faint_a but_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n be_v strong_a and_o trust_v in_o he_o and_o he_o will_v sure_o comfort_v their_o heart_n as_o the_o psalmist_n speak_v psal_n 27.16_o §_o sect._n 4_o second_o whereas_o they_o complain_v that_o they_o do_v not_o after_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n hear_n consolation_n for_o such_o as_o bewail_v their_o want_n of_o feel_v the_o fruit_n of_o their_o hear_n perceive_v in_o themselves_o any_o increase_n of_o knowledge_n faith_n or_o any_o save_a grace_n they_o be_v to_o know_v that_o howsoever_o no_o man_n ought_v to_o rest_v content_v in_o this_o estate_n but_o be_v to_o labour_n more_o and_o more_o not_o only_o to_o have_v but_o also_o to_o discern_v a_o increase_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o and_o a_o progress_n in_o all_o virtue_n and_o godliness_n for_o otherwise_o though_o they_o may_v be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n who_o for_o a_o time_n live_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yet_o they_o can_v not_o attain_v unto_o the_o assurance_n thereof_o nor_o feel_v the_o comfort_n of_o it_o in_o there_o own_o conscience_n nevertheless_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n why_o they_o shall_v despair_v or_o be_v utter_o discourage_v for_o though_o they_o find_v no_o fruit_n of_o their_o hear_n yet_o if_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n commandment_n they_o will_v with_o care_n and_o diligence_n continue_v still_o hearer_n of_o the_o word_n they_o shall_v undoubted_o in_o the_o end_n attain_v unto_o their_o desire_n and_o discern_v in_o themselves_o a_o great_a increase_n of_o grace_n and_o godliness_n we_o know_v that_o the_o seed_n do_v not_o present_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n when_o it_o be_v cast_v into_o the_o ground_n but_o first_o it_o seem_v to_o rot_v and_o perish_v and_o then_o it_o sprout_v up_o in_o a_o green_a blade_n and_o then_o it_o bear_v a_o ear_n and_o a_o great_a increase_n and_o much_o fruit_n and_o so_o it_o fare_v oftentimes_o in_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o at_o first_o it_o seem_v quite_o lose_v and_o perish_v be_v sow_v in_o some_o ground_n and_o yet_o afterwards_o it_o bring_v forth_o not_o only_o a_o fair_a green_a blade_n of_o a_o outward_a profession_n but_o also_o a_o great_a increase_n of_o the_o ripe_a fruit_n of_o true_a godliness_n so_o also_o the_o sick_a patient_a take_v sovereign_a physic_n be_v not_o present_o cure_v nay_o in_o stead_n of_o feel_v any_o ease_n thereby_o he_o be_v make_v much_o more_o sick_a in_o his_o own_o sense_n and_o feeling_n and_o yet_o after_o the_o physic_n have_v a_o while_n wrought_v with_o he_o and_o purge_v he_o of_o some_o superfluous_a and_o hurtful_a humour_n he_o find_v some_o amendment_n and_o so_o by_o little_a and_o little_o he_o be_v restore_v to_o his_o former_a health_n and_o so_o it_o be_v also_o with_o the_o spiritual_a sick_a patient_n he_o do_v not_o always_o present_o find_v ease_n and_o quiet_a peace_n of_o conscience_n nay_o many_o time_n he_o be_v torment_v and_o vex_v after_o he_o have_v receive_v the_o spiritual_a physic_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o word_n of_o god_n more_o than_o ever_o in_o former_a time_n but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o in_o process_n of_o time_n when_o this_o physic_n have_v effectual_o wrought_v with_o he_o it_o purge_v he_o from_o his_o filthy_a corruption_n and_o strengthen_v he_o in_o all_o grace_n and_o godliness_n and_o therefore_o though_o we_o feel_v present_o no_o profitable_a fruit_n of_o hear_v let_v not_o this_o discourage_v we_o from_o hear_v nay_o rather_o let_v it_o serve_v as_o a_o sharp_a spur_n to_o prick_v we_o forward_o to_o more_o diligence_n and_o let_v we_o join_v therewith_o hearty_a prayer_n desire_v the_o lord_n to_o water_v the_o seed_n of_o his_o word_n sow_v in_o our_o heart_n with_o the_o dew_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n and_o then_o undoubted_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o end_n will_v hear_v we_o and_o to_o our_o exceed_a comfort_n show_v unto_o we_o the_o plentiful_a fruit_n of_o all_o our_o labour_n §_o sect._n 5_o three_o whereas_o they_o complain_v that_o the_o more_o they_o hear_v the_o great_a be_v their_o sin_n and_o rebellion_n against_o god_n sin_n consolation_n for_o such_o as_o complain_v that_o the_o more_o they_o hear_v the_o more_o they_o abound_v in_o sin_n in_o this_o they_o much_o deceive_v themselves_o for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v not_o make_v they_o more_o sinful_a but_o whereas_o heretofore_o they_o live_v in_o carnal_a security_n and_o hardness_n of_o heart_n have_v their_o understanding_n darken_v and_o their_o conscience_n sear_v so_o as_o they_o can_v neither_o see_v nor_o feel_v their_o sin_n though_o they_o be_v manifold_a and_o grievous_a now_o the_o word_n of_o god_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o his_o
apostle_n speak_v 1._o tim._n 2.4_o where_o he_o say_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o all_o man_n shall_v be_v save_v 2.4_o 1._o tim._n 2.4_o and_o come_v to_o the_o acknowledge_v of_o the_o truth_n that_o be_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o assent_v thereunto_o pardonable_a the_o 2._o degree_n a_o persuasion_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v pardonable_a the_o second_o degree_n be_v a_o assurance_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v pardonable_a which_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o by_o the_o knowledge_n and_o due_a consideration_n of_o god_n infinite_a mercy_n and_o christ_n invaluable_a merit_n and_o indefinite_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n make_v with_o out_o exception_n to_o ill_a repentant_a and_o believe_a sinner_n from_o whence_o also_o arise_v a_o general_a hope_n that_o we_o shall_v receive_v the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n which_o hope_n be_v nourish_v and_o increase_v by_o this_o consideration_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v place_v we_o in_o his_o church_n and_o gracious_o grant_v unto_o we_o the_o outward_a mean_n whereby_o we_o may_v be_v bring_v unto_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o have_v a_o lively_a faith_n wrought_v in_o we_o even_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n upon_o which_o only_a condition_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o all_o the_o sweet_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v make_v and_o assure_v unto_o us._n §_o sect._n 4_o the_o three_o degree_n be_v a_o hunger_a desire_n after_o grace_n that_o be_v not_o only_o to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o god_n mercy_n grace_n the_o 3._o ddegree_n a_o hunger_a desire_n after_o grace_n and_o christ_n merit_n and_o righteousness_n by_o which_o we_o be_v justify_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n and_o receive_v the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o all_o our_o sin_n but_o also_o after_o the_o mean_n and_o instrumental_a cause_n whereby_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n be_v derive_v unto_o we_o namely_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n sanctify_a spirit_n the_o which_o desire_v of_o grace_n be_v the_o begin_n of_o grace_n neither_o can_v we_o desire_v it_o till_o in_o some_o measure_n it_o be_v wrought_v in_o we_o for_o regeneration_n and_o sanctification_n be_v begin_v at_o the_o same_o time_n in_o all_o the_o part_n and_o faculty_n of_o our_o body_n and_o fowl_n so_o that_o he_o who_o be_v true_o regenerate_v many_o faculty_n or_o part_n be_v also_o regenerate_v in_o the_o whole_a man_n and_o therefore_o whosoever_o have_v his_o will_n renew_v and_o sanctify_v to_o desire_v that_o which_o be_v good_a be_v also_o sanctify_a and_o renew_v in_o his_o understanding_n affection_n and_o in_o all_o the_o power_n and_o faculty_n of_o body_n and_o soul_n moreover_o as_o before_o i_o have_v deliver_v at_o large_a our_o desire_n of_o grace_n faith_n and_o repentance_n be_v the_o grace_n themselves_o which_o we_o desire_v at_o least_o in_o god_n acceptation_n who_o accept_v of_o the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n and_o of_o our_o affection_n for_o the_o action_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o earnest_o desire_v to_o repent_v &_o believe_v we_o do_v repent_v and_o believe_v in_o god_n sight_n and_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v the_o like_a gracious_a promise_n to_o this_o earnest_a desire_n of_o grace_n which_o he_o have_v make_v to_o those_o who_o find_v themselves_o plentiful_o endue_v with_o the_o grace_n themselves_o so_o matth._n 5.6_o bless_a be_v they_o which_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n for_o righteousness_n for_o they_o shall_v be_v fill_v so_o the_o virgin_n marie_n say_v in_o her_o song_n luk._n 1.53_o 1.53_o luke_n 1.53_o that_o the_o lord_n fill_v the_o hungry_a with_o good_a thing_n and_o send_v away_o the_o rich_a empty_a and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n call_v unto_o he_o such_o as_o thus_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n promise_v that_o he_o will_v satisfy_v they_o john_n 7.37_o revel_v 21.6_o and_o 22.17_o 7.37_o joh._n 7.37_o last_o whosoever_o feel_v this_o desire_n in_o he_o join_v with_o a_o careful_a and_o continual_a use_n of_o the_o mean_n whereby_o his_o desire_n may_v be_v satisfy_v he_o may_v assure_v himself_o that_o the_o lord_n who_o have_v wrought_v in_o he_o the_o will_n to_o desire_v will_v also_o in_o his_o good_a time_n work_v in_o he_o ability_n to_o perform_v and_o the_o grace_n which_o he_o so_o earnest_o desire_v for_o he_o will_v fulfil_v the_o desire_n of_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o he_o will_v also_o hear_v their_o cry_n and_o will_v save_v they_o as_o it_o be_v psal_n 145.19_o so_o psal_n 10.17_o 10.17_o psal_n 145.19_o &_o 10.17_o lord_n thou_o have_v hear_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o poor_a thou_o prepare_v their_o heart_n and_o bende_v thy_o ear_n unto_o they_o and_o therefore_o if_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o our_o affliction_n and_o grievous_a tentation_n we_o can_v cry_v out_o with_o the_o prophet_n david_n psalm_n 38.9_o lord_n i_o pour_v my_o whole_a desire_n before_o thou_o 38.9_o psal_n 38.9_o and_o my_o sigh_v be_v not_o hide_v from_o thou_o we_o may_v be_v assure_v how_o miserable_a soever_o we_o be_v in_o our_o own_o sense_n and_o feeling_n that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o shall_v have_v our_o desire_n satisfy_v for_o he_o that_o have_v begin_v this_o good_a work_n in_o we_o 1.6_o phil._n 1.6_o will_v also_o in_o his_o good_a time_n finish_v and_o perfect_v it_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v phil._n 1.6_o §_o sect._n 5_o the_o four_o degree_n be_v a_o approach_n unto_o the_o throne_n of_o mercy_n that_o we_o may_v in_o all_o humility_n confess_v our_o sin_n 4.16_o the_o 4._o degree_n a_o approach_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n heb._n 4.16_o and_o acknowledge_v that_o we_o be_v guilty_a of_o death_n and_o condemnation_n and_o also_o that_o we_o may_v in_o the_o name_n and_o mediation_n of_o christ_n obtain_v the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o they_o and_o of_o this_o the_o apostle_n speak_v heb._n 4.16_o let_v we_o therefore_o go_v bold_o unto_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n that_o we_o may_v receive_v mercy_n and_o find_v grace_n to_o help_v in_o time_n of_o need_n and_o the_o prophet_n hosea_n cap._n 14.2_o o_o israel_n return_n unto_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n for_o thou_o have_v fall_v by_o thy_o iniquity_n 3._o take_v unto_o you_o word_n and_o turn_v unto_o the_o lord_n and_o say_v unto_o he_o take_v away_o all_o iniquity_n and_o receive_v we_o gracious_o so_o will_v we_o render_v the_o calf_n of_o our_o lip_n a_o example_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o prophet_n david_n psal_n 32.5_o then_o say_v he_o i_o acknowledge_v my_o sin_n unto_o thou_o 32.5_o psal_n 32.5_o neither_o hide_v i_o my_o iniquity_n for_o i_o think_v i_o will_v confess_v my_o wickedness_n unto_o the_o lord_n and_o thou_o forgave_v the_o punishment_n of_o my_o sin_n so_o likewise_o the_o prodigal_a son_n have_v attain_v unto_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o to_o a_o desire_n of_o forgiveness_n resolve_v to_o go_v unto_o his_o father_n and_o to_o say_v 15.18.19_o luk._n 15.18.19_o father_n i_o have_v sin_v against_o heaven_n and_o before_o thou_o &_o be_o no_o more_o worthy_a to_o be_v call_v thy_o son_n make_v i_o as_o one_o of_o thy_o hire_a servant_n luke_n 15.18.19_o §_o sect._n 6_o the_o five_o degree_n be_v a_o special_o persuasion_n wrought_v in_o we_o by_o god_n spirit_n whereby_o we_o particular_o apply_v unto_o we_o the_o sweet_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n promise_n the_o 5._o degree_n a_o special_a application_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o be_v assure_v of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n &_o of_o the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n for_o the_o merit_n righteousness_n and_o obedience_n of_o jesus_n christ_n rest_v upon_o he_o alone_o for_o our_o salvation_n a_o example_n whereof_o we_o have_v in_o the_o apostle_n paul_n gal._n 2.20_o 2.20_o gala._n 2.20_o thus_o say_v he_o i_o live_v yet_o not_o i_o now_o but_o christ_n live_v in_o i_o and_o in_o that_o i_o now_o live_v in_o the_o flesh_n i_o live_v by_o faith_n in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o have_v love_v i_o and_o give_v himself_o for_o i_o and_o this_o persuasion_n ought_v to_o go_v before_o sense_n and_o experience_n for_o first_o we_o believe_v and_o be_v persuade_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n promise_n and_o resist_v diffidence_n and_o doubt_v and_o afterwards_o follow_v joyful_a sense_n and_o experience_n of_o god_n mercy_n truth_n and_o goodness_n towards_o us._n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n define_v faith_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o thing_n which_o be_v hope_v for_o and_o the_o demonstration_n or_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v 29._o heb._n 11.1_o joh._n 20_o 29._o heb._n 11.1_o &_o to_o this_o purpose_n our_o saviour_n christ_n say_v to_o thomas_n
accompany_v with_o loss_n as_o when_o we_o be_v in_o hope_n to_o gain_v thereby_o these_o and_o many_o other_o the_o branch_n of_o sanctification_n be_v the_o undoubted_a sign_n of_o a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n and_o therefore_o whosoever_o after_o due_a examination_n find_v that_o they_o be_v endue_v with_o they_o may_v also_o be_v assure_v notwithstanding_o all_o satan_n suggestion_n to_o the_o contrary_a that_o they_o have_v faith_n for_o this_o be_v the_o root_n from_o which_o these_o fruit_n spring_n and_o they_o can_v be_v sever_v chap._n xliii_o satan_n tentation_n ground_v upon_o our_o want_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o faith_n answer_v §_o sect._n 1_o and_o these_o be_v the_o sign_n by_o which_o every_o believer_n may_v be_v assure_v that_o he_o have_v a_o true_a &_o lively_a faith_n not_o satan_n tentation_n whereby_o he_o persuade_v we_o than_o we_o have_v no_o faith_n because_o we_o feel_v it_o not_o which_o howsoever_o they_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o every_o faithful_a man_n yet_o not_o at_o all_o time_n for_o oftentimes_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o believe_a christian_n do_v neither_o feel_v his_o faith_n nor_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o especial_o in_o the_o infancy_n of_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o cumbate_n of_o tentation_n which_o give_v occasion_n unto_o satan_n of_o suggest_v into_o his_o mind_n a_o dangerous_a tentation_n thou_o brag_v much_o will_v he_o say_v of_o thy_o faith_n and_o thou_o confirme_v this_o thy_o persuasion_n that_o thou_o be_v endue_v therewith_o with_o many_o sign_n and_o fruit_n which_o have_v accompany_v it_o but_o if_o now_o thou_o examine_v thyself_o a_o right_n thou_o shall_v find_v in_o thou_o no_o such_o matter_n and_o not_o to_o stand_v upon_o other_o argument_n i_o appeal_v unto_o the_o testimony_n of_o thy_o own_o conscience_n whether_o at_o this_o present_a thou_o have_v any_o sense_n or_o lively_a feel_n of_o faith_n or_o can_v discern_v those_o fruit_n thereof_o which_o before_o thou_o have_v speak_v of_o if_o not_o then_o do_v not_o flatter_v thyself_o in_o vain_a with_o a_o fond_a persuasion_n for_o though_o thou_o will_v not_o believe_v i_o yet_o at_o least_o believe_v thou_o own_o sense_n and_o feeling_n which_o plain_o tell_v thou_o that_o either_o thou_o never_o have_v any_o true_a faith_n indeed_o or_o if_o thou_o have_v yet_o that_o now_o it_o be_v quite_o lose_v and_o perish_v tertation_n the_o answer_n to_o the_o former_a tertation_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o which_o tentation_n we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o between_o faith_n itself_o and_o the_o work_n &_o function_n thereof_o which_o be_v to_o apprehend_v and_o apply_v christ_n merit_n and_o god_n mercy_n and_o love_a favour_n with_o all_o the_o gracious_a promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o it_o be_v a_o habitual_a faculty_n of_o the_o mind_n it_o always_o continue_v &_o abide_v in_o god_n child_n after_o it_o be_v once_o wrought_v in_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o function_n act_n or_o work_v thereof_o it_o have_v many_o intermission_n and_o oftentimes_o seem_v to_o be_v cast_v as_o it_o be_v into_o a_o dead_a sleep_n now_o we_o be_v to_o know_v that_o we_o can_v sensible_o discern_v faith_n as_o it_o be_v a_o habitual_a virtue_n or_o faculty_n of_o the_o mind_n although_o we_o have_v it_o in_o great_a measure_n in_o we_o but_o only_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o manife_v itself_o in_o his_o action_n work_n &_o fruit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o unsound_a and_o false_a manner_n of_o reason_v to_o infer_v because_o we_o do_v not_o sensible_o feel_v and_o discern_v that_o we_o have_v faith_n therefore_o we_o be_v destitute_a thereof_o for_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n or_o faith_n itself_o may_v be_v in_o we_o &_o yet_o for_o a_o time_n may_v be_v so_o hinder_v by_o outward_a accident_n that_o it_o can_v show_v itself_o in_o his_o action_n and_o fruit_n by_o which_o alone_o it_o be_v sensible_o discern_v §_o sect._n 2_o but_o i_o will_v make_v this_o more_o clear_a and_o manifest_a by_o some_o familiar_a similitude_n and_o example_n similitude_n the_o former_a answer_n make_v plain_a by_o similitude_n we_o know_v that_o in_o the_o sickness_n and_o disease_n of_o the_o body_n nature_n be_v so_o enfeeble_v and_o overcome_v that_o sometime_o the_o party_n affect_v fall_v into_o a_o dead_a swoon_n wherein_o he_o be_v deprive_v for_o a_o time_n not_o only_o of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o understanding_n reason_n and_o memory_n but_o also_o of_o his_o sense_n motion_n and_o vital_a function_n so_o that_o in_o respect_n of_o sense_n and_o outward_a appearance_n he_o be_v quite_o deprive_v of_o all_o his_o vital_a sensitive_a and_o intellectual_a faculty_n but_o yet_o a_o while_n after_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o outward_a mean_n use_v or_o by_o the_o secret_a power_n of_o nature_n work_v in_o he_o he_o be_v restore_v to_o the_o use_n of_o all_o again_o and_o live_v feel_v much_o and_o understand_v as_o in_o former_a time_n because_o he_o have_v not_o lose_v these_o faculty_n but_o only_o by_o some_o grievous_a impediment_n be_v hinder_v of_o the_o use_n of_o they_o in_o their_o action_n and_o function_n so_o that_o here_o this_o manner_n of_o reason_v appear_v absurd_a and_o false_a these_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v sensible_o discern_v and_o therefore_o he_o be_v quite_o destitute_a of_o they_o and_o thus_o also_o it_o be_v in_o respect_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o other_o habitual_a virtue_n oftentimes_o through_o the_o sickness_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o sin_n or_o the_o outward_a violence_n of_o satan_n tentation_n it_o seem_v cast_v into_o a_o swoon_n &_o deprive_v of_o all_o the_o spiritual_a faculty_n and_o virtue_n thereof_o faith_n love_n zeal_n hope_v patience_n and_o the_o rest_n but_o yet_o soon_o after_o by_o hear_v the_o word_n by_o godly_a admonition_n instruction_n reprehension_n and_o consolation_n make_v effectual_a by_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o god_n spirit_n it_o be_v reviue_v and_o all_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n thereof_o show_v themselves_o again_o in_o their_o wont_a strength_n so_o that_o this_o inference_n be_v no_o less_o false_a than_o the_o other_o there_o be_v no_o sensible_a appearance_n of_o these_o sanctify_a gift_n and_o grace_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v quite_o lose_v and_o perish_v for_o the_o grace_n themselves_o remain_v though_o for_o a_o time_n they_o appear_v not_o in_o their_o action_n and_o fruit_n so_o in_o the_o time_n of_o winter_n the_o fruitful_a tree_n be_v so_o nip_v with_o the_o cold_a frost_n and_o so_o weatherbeaten_a with_o tempestuous_a storm_n that_o they_o appear_v naked_a &_o bare_a not_o only_o without_o fruit_n but_o also_o leave_v so_o as_o if_o we_o shall_v judge_v according_a to_o sense_n &_o outward_a appearance_n we_o shall_v false_o conclude_v that_o they_o be_v dead_a for_o by_o experience_n we_o know_v that_o they_o live_v and_o suck_v nourishment_n out_o of_o the_o earth_n even_o when_o they_o be_v most_o spoil_v of_o their_o summer_n beauty_n and_o though_o they_o be_v toss_v with_o the_o wind_n yet_o hereby_o they_o be_v not_o hurt_v but_o rather_o take_v deep_a root_n and_o so_o be_v make_v capable_a of_o more_o nourishment_n and_o though_o they_o be_v nip_v with_o cold_a frost_n yet_o hereby_o they_o be_v not_o make_v barren_a nay_o rather_o hereby_o their_o worm_n and_o canker_n be_v kill_v and_o they_o prepare_v and_o make_v fit_a to_o bring_v forth_o more_o fruit_n in_o the_o time_n of_o summer_n when_o the_o comfortable_a spring_n approach_v and_o the_o sweet_a shower_n and_o warm_a sun_n beam_n fall_v and_o descend_v upon_o they_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o spiritual_a grace_n in_o the_o poor_a christian_n in_o the_o winter_n of_o affliction_n they_o be_v nip_v with_o the_o cold_a frost_n of_o fear_n and_o doubt_v and_o weatherbeaten_a with_o the_o boisterous_a blast_n of_o satan_n tentation_n so_o as_o they_o seem_v even_o dead_a at_o the_o very_a root_n if_o we_o shall_v judge_v according_a to_o outward_a sense_n &_o appearance_n but_o yet_o by_o experience_n we_o find_v that_o it_o be_v far_o otherwise_o for_o hereby_o they_o be_v not_o overturn_v though_o they_o be_v shake_v and_o this_o shake_n make_v they_o to_o take_v more_o deep_a root_n in_o godliness_n and_o though_o they_o be_v nip_v and_o pinch_v with_o fear_n and_o doubt_n yet_o they_o perish_v not_o only_o the_o cankerworm_n of_o pride_n sonde_v presumption_n and_o self_n confidence_n be_v mortify_v and_o kill_v and_o they_o hereby_o be_v prepare_v and_o fit_v to_o bring_v forth_o more_o plentiful_a fruit_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n when_o the_o spring_n of_o true_a comfort_n come_v wherein_o the_o sweet_a shower_n of_o god_n holy_a spirit_n distil_v upon_o
that_o he_o purge_v it_o with_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n from_o all_o sin_n and_o adorn_v it_o with_o the_o rich_a robe_n of_o his_o righteousness_n the_o apostle_n likewise_o say_v that_o it_o be_v god_n who_o justifi_v he_o who_o in_o himself_o be_v ungodly_a rom._n 4.5_o and_o 8.33_o it_o be_v god_n who_o justifi_v who_o shall_v condemn_v the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v manifest_a because_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n against_o who_o we_o have_v sin_v as_o david_n speak_v psal_n 51.4_o and_o he_o alone_o be_v our_o supreme_a judge_n who_o have_v authority_n to_o absolve_v or_o condemn_v we_o and_o therefore_o he_o only_o can_v give_v unto_o we_o the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o accept_v of_o we_o as_o just_a and_o righteous_a and_o this_o work_n be_v not_o peculiar_a unto_o any_o one_o person_n but_o be_v commune_v to_o the_o whole_a trinity_n for_o god_n the_o father_n be_v full_o satisfy_v by_o the_o full_a satisfaction_n righteousness_n and_o obedience_n of_o christ_n the_o son_n apply_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n do_v pardon_n and_o forgive_v we_o all_o our_o sin_n and_o pronounce_v and_o accept_v of_o we_o as_o innocent_a and_o endue_v with_o perfect_a righteousness_n the_o motive_n or_o impulsive_a cause_n which_o move_v the_o lord_n thus_o to_o justify_v we_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n in_o we_o or_o out_o of_o himself_o but_o of_o his_o mere_a mercy_n and_o free_a good_a will_n wherewith_o he_o have_v love_v we_o from_o the_o beginning_n as_o it_o manifest_o appear_v rom._n 3.24_o 3.24_o rom._n 3.24_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o we_o be_v justify_v free_o by_o his_o grace_n through_o the_o redemption_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o tit._n 3.5.7_o 3.5.7_o tit._n 3.5.7_o not_o by_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n which_o we_o have_v do_v but_o according_a to_o his_o mercy_n he_o save_v we_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o the_o new_a birth_n and_o renew_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 7._o that_o be_v justify_v by_o his_o grace_n we_o shall_v be_v make_v heir_n according_a to_o the_o hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n the_o instrumental_a cause_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o on_o god_n part_n the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n whereby_o the_o lord_n offer_v convaigh_v seal_v and_o assure_v unto_o we_o his_o mercy_n &_o grace_n christ_n jesus_n with_o his_o merit_n righteousness_n and_o obedience_n the_o remission_n of_o our_o sin_n and_o everlasting_a life_n second_o on_o our_o part_n a_o true_a and_o lively_a faith_n whereby_o we_o receive_v and_o apply_v unto_o ourselves_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n christ_n jesus_n &_o all_o his_o benefit_n rest_v upon_o he_o alone_o for_o our_o salvation_n §_o sect._n 2_o the_o material_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n be_v the_o active_a and_o passive_a righteousness_n and_o obedience_n of_o jesus_n christ_n cause_n the_o material_a cause_n his_o inhaerent_a holiness_n his_o fulfil_n of_o the_o law_n his_o death_n sacrifice_n and_o full_a satisfaction_n so_o that_o we_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o the_o essential_a righteousness_n of_o the_o godhead_n nor_o by_o our_o own_o work_n join_v with_o christ_n merit_n nor_o by_o any_o inhaerent_a righteousness_n infuse_v of_o god_n through_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n or_o by_o any_o other_o thing_n in_o ourselves_o or_o any_o other_o mere_a creature_n but_o by_o the_o alone_a righteousness_n of_o our_o mediator_n jesus_n christ_n god_n and_o man_n which_o be_v out_o of_o ourselves_o and_o in_o christ_n as_o the_o proper_a subject_n thereof_o and_o not_o belong_v to_o we_o till_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o a_o lively_a faith_n it_o be_v apply_v unto_o we_o and_o so_o become_v we_o cause_n of_o the_o formal_a cause_n the_o formal_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n be_v a_o reciprocal_a imputation_n or_o transmutation_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o believer_n unto_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o righteousness_n unto_o the_o believer_n whereby_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o the_o faithful_a man_n have_v not_o his_o sin_n impute_v unto_o he_o nor_o the_o punishment_n due_a unto_o they_o inflict_v on_o he_o because_o christ_n have_v take_v upon_o he_o the_o guilt_n and_o punishment_n and_o by_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n unto_o his_o father_n justice_n have_v obtain_v the_o pardon_n and_o remission_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n and_o also_o be_v clothe_v with_o the_o glorious_a robe_n of_o christ_n jesus_n righteousness_n and_o so_o appear_v before_o god_n both_o free_a from_o all_o sin_n and_o endue_v with_o perfect_a righteousness_n he_o be_v justify_v reconcile_v and_o eternal_o save_v and_o of_o this_o impute_a righteousness_n the_o apostle_n speak_v rom._n 4.5_o 4.5_o rom._n 4.5_o but_o to_o he_o that_o work_v not_o but_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o justifi_v the_o ungodly_a his_o faith_n be_v count_v for_o righteousness_n 6._o even_o as_o david_n declare_v the_o blessedness_n of_o the_o man_n unto_o who_o god_n impute_v righteousness_n without_o work_n say_v 7._o bless_a be_v they_o who_o iniquity_n be_v forgive_v and_o who_o sin_n be_v cover_v 8._o blessed_a be_v the_o man_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n impute_v not_o sin_n and_o 2._o cor._n 5.19_o 5.19_o 2._o cor._n 5.19_o for_o god_n be_v in_o christ_n and_o reconcile_v the_o world_n unto_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o sin_n unto_o they_o etc._n etc._n 21._o for_o he_o have_v make_v he_o to_o be_v sin_n for_o we_o which_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v 1._o cor._n 1.30_o that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v make_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n wisdom_n 1.30_o 1._o cor._n 1.30_o righteousness_n sanctification_n and_o redemption_n so_o that_o now_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v our_o righteousness_n his_o obedience_n our_o obedience_n his_o merit_n our_o merit_n as_o certain_o perfect_o and_o effectual_o even_o as_o if_o we_o ourselves_o have_v be_v most_o innocent_a fulfil_v the_o law_n or_o make_v full_a satisfaction_n to_o god_n justice_n by_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o in_o respect_n of_o ourselves_o we_o be_v justify_v free_o of_o god_n mere_a mercy_n &_o grace_n without_o any_o respect_n of_o our_o own_o righteousness_n or_o worthiness_n but_o yet_o through_o christ_n and_o for_o his_o righteousness_n and_o obedience_n impute_v pute_v to_o we_o 3.23.24_o rom._n 3.23.24_o both_o which_o be_v signify_v by_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 3.23.24_o where_o he_o say_v that_o all_o in_o themselves_o be_v wretched_a sinner_n without_o difference_n and_o thereby_o be_v deprive_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n kingdom_n 24._o and_o be_v justify_v free_o of_o his_o grace_n through_o the_o redemption_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n §_o sect._n 3_o cause_n the_o final_a cause_n the_o final_a cause_n of_o our_o instification_n be_v two_o fold_n the_o chief_a and_o principal_n be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o hereby_o the_o lord_n have_v most_o notable_o manifest_v his_o infinite_a justice_n and_o mercy_n his_o justice_n in_o that_o he_o will_v rather_o punish_v our_o sin_n in_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n than_o he_o will_v suffer_v they_o to_o go_v unpunished_a his_o mercy_n in_o that_o for_o our_o sake_n he_o spare_v not_o his_o best_a belove_a son_n but_o give_v he_o to_o suffer_v death_n yea_o the_o death_n of_o the_o cross_n that_o by_o his_o one_o oblation_n he_o may_v make_v full_a satisfaction_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o purchase_v for_o we_o everlasting_a life_n and_o also_o in_o that_o he_o vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o the_o outward_a mean_n of_o his_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o the_o inward_a assistance_n of_o his_o holy_a spirit_n whereby_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n and_o have_v a_o lively_a faith_n beget_v in_o we_o which_o apprehend_v christ_n his_o righteousness_n and_o merit_n we_o be_v justify_v sanctify_a and_o eternal_o save_v and_o this_o end_n be_v signify_v by_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 3.24.25_o where_o he_o say_v that_o god_n have_v justify_v we_o free_o by_o his_o grace_n 5.21_o rom_n 3.24_o &_o 5.21_o through_o the_o redemption_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n to_o declare_v his_o righteousness_n by_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n and_o may_v show_v himself_o just_a by_o justify_v he_o who_o be_v of_o the_o faith_n of_o jesus_n and_o cap._n 5.21_o he_o say_v that_o as_o under_o the_o law_n sin_n have_v reign_v unto_o death_n so_o now_o grace_n reign_v by_o righteousness_n unto_o eternal_a life_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n 2.5.6.7_o ephe._n 2.5.6.7_o so_o eph._n 2.5.6.7_o he_o affirm_v that_o god_n have_v quicken_v we_o in_o christ_n who_o be_v dead_a in_o our_o sin_n &_o have_v raise_v we_o up_o in_o he_o that_o he_o may_v show_v in_o the_o age_n to_o come_v the_o exceed_a riches_n of_o his_o grace_n through_o his_o kindness_n towards_o we_o in_o christ_n jesus_n the_o