contemplation_n of_o its_o goodness_n and_o equity_n constrain_v the_o mind_n to_o assent_v to_o it_o from_o hence_o we_o may_v infallible_o infer_v that_o the_o radical_a difference_n and_o distinguish_a character_n between_o a_o saint_n and_o one_o in_o the_o state_n of_o pollute_a nature_n be_v the_o affection_n of_o love_n with_o respect_n to_o its_o object_n and_o degree_n love_n to_o god_n as_o our_o sovereign_a happiness_n be_v the_o immediate_a cause_n of_o our_o conversion_n and_o reunion_n with_o he_o love_n to_o vicious_a object_n or_o when_o with_o a_o intemperate_a current_n it_o descend_v to_o thing_n not_o deserve_v its_o ardent_a degree_n alienates_v the_o heart_n from_o god_n holiness_n be_v the_o order_n of_o love_n the_o excellency_n of_o holy_a love_n will_v appear_v in_o the_o follow_a consideration_n 1._o love_n have_v the_o supremacy_n among_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n this_o in_o the_o most_o proper_a sense_n be_v the_o fire_n our_o saviour_n come_v to_o kindle_v on_o the_o earth_n the_o apostle_n declare_v that_o charity_n be_v great_a than_o faith_n and_o hope_n which_o be_v evangelical_n grace_n of_o eminent_a usefulness_n for_o 1._o it_o be_v the_o bright_a part_n of_o the_o divine_a image_n in_o we_o god_n be_v love_n it_o be_v the_o most_o adequate_a notion_n of_o the_o deity_n and_o more_o significant_a of_o his_o bless_a nature_n than_o any_o other_o single_a attribute_n the_o most_o proper_a and_o honourable_a conception_n we_o can_v form_v of_o the_o deity_n be_v love_n direct_v by_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o exercise_v by_o infinite_a power_n faith_n and_o hope_n can_v be_v ascribe_v to_o god_n they_o imply_v imperfection_n in_o their_o nature_n and_o necessary_o respect_v a_o absent_a object_n now_o all_o thing_n be_v present_a to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o in_o his_o power_n and_o possession_n but_o love_n be_v his_o essential_a perfection_n the_o productive_a principle_n of_o all_o good_n love_n transform_v we_o into_o his_o likeness_n and_o infuse_v the_o divine_a temper_n into_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o act_n of_o other_o grace_n we_o obey_v god_n in_o the_o act_n of_o love_n we_o imitate_v he_o this_o may_v be_v illustrate_v by_o its_o contrary_n there_o be_v sin_n of_o various_a kind_n and_o degree_n spiritual_a and_o carnal_a spiritual_a such_o be_v pride_n malignant_a envy_n irreconcilable_a enmity_n delight_n in_o mischief_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a character_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o denominate_v man_n his_o natural_a son_n carnal_a sin_n which_o the_o soul_n immerse_v in_o flesh_n indulge_v all_o riotous_a excess_n intemperance_n incontinence_n and_o the_o like_a of_o which_o a_o mere_a spirit_n be_v not_o capable_a denominate_v man_n the_o captive_n and_o slave_n of_o satan_n now_o spiritual_a sin_n induce_v a_o great_a guilt_n and_o deep_a pollution_n than_o carnal_a the_o exacter_n resemblance_n of_o the_o evil_a one_o make_v sinful_a man_n more_o odious_a to_o god_n 2._o love_n be_v more_o extensive_a in_o its_o influence_n than_o faith_n and_o hope_n their_o operation_n be_v confine_v to_o the_o person_n in_o who_o they_o be_v the_o just_a life_n by_o his_o own_o faith_n and_o be_v save_v by_o his_o own_o hope_n without_o communicate_v life_n and_o salvation_n to_o other_o but_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n and_o perfection_n of_o love_n to_o be_v beneficial_a to_o all_o love_n comfort_v the_o afflict_a relieve_v the_o indigent_a direct_v those_o who_o want_v counsel_n it_o be_v the_o vital_a cement_n of_o mankind_n in_o the_o universe_n conversation_n and_o reciprocal_a kindness_n be_v the_o blood_n and_o spirit_n of_o society_n and_o love_n make_v the_o circulation_n 3._o love_n give_v value_n and_o acceptance_n to_o all_o other_o gift_n and_o grace_n and_o their_o operation_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o though_o i_o have_v the_o gift_n of_o propheste_n and_o understand_v all_o mystery_n and_o all_o knowledge_n though_o i_o have_v all_o faith_n and_o can_v remove_v mountain_n and_o have_v not_o charity_n i_o be_o nothing_o and_o though_o i_o bestow_v all_o my_o good_n to_o feâ—d_v the_o poor_a and_o though_o i_o give_v my_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v and_o have_v not_o charity_n it_o profit_v i_o nothing_o without_o charity_n faith_n be_v but_o a_o dead_a assent_n hope_n be_v like_o a_o tympany_n the_o big_a it_o grow_v the_o more_o dangerous_a it_o prove_v the_o most_o diffusive_a beneficence_n without_o love_n be_v but_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o vanity_n it_o be_v not_o the_o richness_n of_o the_o gift_n but_o the_o love_n of_o the_o giver_n that_o make_v it_o accept_v and_o reward_v in_o heaven_n the_o widow_n two_o mite_n cast_v into_o the_o treasury_n of_o the_o temple_n be_v of_o more_o value_n in_o our_o saviour_n account_n than_o the_o rich_a offering_n of_o other_o for_o she_o give_v her_o heart_n the_o most_o precious_a and_o comprehensive_a gift_n with_o they_o the_o give_v our_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v for_o the_o truth_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o high_a expression_n of_o obedience_n which_o the_o angel_n be_v not_o capable_a of_o perform_v yet_o without_o charity_n martyrdom_n be_v but_o a_o vainglorious_a blaze_n and_o the_o seal_v the_o truth_n with_o our_o blood_n be_v to_o seal_v our_o shame_n and_o folly_n sincere_a love_n when_o it_o can_v express_v itself_o in_o suitable_a effect_n have_v this_o privilege_n to_o be_v accept_v in_o god_n sight_n as_o if_o it_o be_v exuberant_a and_o evident_a in_o outward_a action_n for_o god_n accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n if_o there_o be_v first_o a_o willing_a mind_n it_o be_v accept_v according_a to_o what_o a_o man_n have_v and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o he_o have_v not_o 4._o love_n be_v the_o perfection_n of_o the_o law_n the_o sum_n and_o substance_n of_o every_o precept_n all_o particular_a duty_n though_o distinguish_v in_o the_o matter_n be_v unite_v in_o love_n as_o their_o principle_n and_o centre_n 11._o st._n austin_n observe_v that_o all_o other_o virtue_n piety_n prudence_n humility_n chastity_n temperance_n fortitude_n be_v love_v diversify_v by_o other_o name_n liberal_a love_n give_v supply_n to_o the_o poor_a patient_a love_n forgive_v injury_n love_n be_v the_o end_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o gospel_n now_o the_o end_n of_o the_o commandment_n be_v charity_n out_o of_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o faith_n unfeigned_a some_o restrain_v the_o word_n commandment_n to_o the_o law_n think_v that_o the_o gospel_n be_v only_o compound_v of_o promise_n but_o they_o misunderstand_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o two_o covenant_n it_o be_v not_o in_o that_o the_o one_o command_n and_o the_o other_o do_v not_o command_n but_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n command_v the_o law_n command_v to_o do_v for_o the_o obtain_n of_o life_n the_o gospel_n command_v to_o believe_v for_o salvation_n this_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n that_o we_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ._n the_o 15._o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d be_v by_o the_o apostle_n use_v for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o the_o end_n of_o a_o science_n or_o art_n be_v the_o perfection_n of_o the_o understanding_n in_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a subject_n of_o the_o science_n the_o end_n of_o philosophy_n be_v knowledge_n and_o moral_a virtue_n the_o end_n of_o rhetoric_n be_v eloquence_n thus_o the_o end_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o divine_a doctrine_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v love_n a_o celestial_a perfection_n faith_n in_o the_o redeem_n mercy_n of_o god_n be_v the_o product_n of_o the_o gospel_n not_o of_o the_o law_n and_o love_n be_v the_o end_n of_o faith_n now_o the_o end_n be_v more_o excellent_a than_o the_o mean_n to_o obtain_v it_o in_o this_o respect_n love_n be_v great_a than_o faith_n brief_o love_n be_v style_v the_o bond_n of_o perfection_n as_o it_o unite_v and_o consummate_v other_o grace_n comprehend_v and_o fasten_v they_o love_n to_o god_n draw_v forth_o all_o the_o active_a power_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o obedience_n he_o that_o with_o a_o full_a and_o fervent_a will_n apply_v himself_o to_o his_o duty_n will_v more_o easy_o pleasant_o and_o exact_o perform_v it_o the_o love_n of_o god_n will_v form_v the_o soul_n into_o a_o more_o entire_a conformity_n to_o his_o nature_n and_o obedience_n to_o his_o law_n and_o raise_v it_o to_o a_o great_a eminency_n of_o holiness_n than_o the_o clear_a knowledge_n of_o all_o precept_n and_o rule_n can_v do_v 4._o love_n never_o fail_v the_o gift_n and_o 13._o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v dispense_v and_o continue_v according_a to_o our_o different_a state_n some_o be_v necessary_a in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o the_o church_n with_o respect_n to_o our_o sin_n and_o trouble_n from_o which_o there_o be_v no_o perfect_a freedom_n here_o repentance_n be_v
be_v inseparable_a from_o the_o be_v of_o it_o this_o include_v first_o a_o conformity_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o life_n to_o god_n as_o a_o good_a complexion_n fluorish_v in_o the_o countenance_n from_o the_o root_n of_o a_o good_a constitution_n within_o so_o real_a holiness_n shine_v in_o the_o conversation_n proceed_v from_o a_o internal_a principle_n of_o life_n seat_v in_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n the_o understanding_n esteem_v the_o precept_n of_o god_n law_n as_o best_a in_o themselves_o and_o best_a for_o we_o the_o will_n consent_n to_o the_o sanctity_n and_o royalty_n of_o the_o law_n david_n declare_v i_o esteem_v all_o thy_o commandment_n to_o be_v right_a and_o i_o hate_v every_o false_a way_n if_o the_o divine_a will_v be_v the_o reason_n of_o our_o obedience_n it_o will_v be_v impartial_a many_o elude_v duty_n and_o deceive_v conscience_n by_o partial_a respect_n to_o the_o law_n they_o will_v make_v amends_o for_o delinquency_n in_o some_o thing_n by_o supererogate_a in_o other_o that_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o carnal_a ease_n and_o interest_n thus_o the_o pharisee_n be_v mighty_a son_n of_o the_o church_n very_o accurate_a in_o sanctimonious_a form_n great_a pretender_n to_o piety_n but_o stain_v religion_n with_o injustice_n and_o uncharitableness_n they_o pretend_v to_o love_n god_n but_o hate_v their_o neighbour_n they_o fast_v twice_o a_o week_n but_o devour_v widow_n house_n they_o be_v very_o nice_a in_o observe_v the_o numerous_a rite_n of_o religion_n but_o neglect_v the_o duty_n of_o substantial_a goodness_n there_o be_v not_o a_o more_o exact_a resemblance_n between_o the_o immediate_a sight_n of_o the_o face_n and_o the_o sight_n of_o it_o by_o reflection_n in_o a_o clear_a and_o true_a glass_n than_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o old_a pharisees_n be_v like_o the_o formalist_n in_o every_o age._n thus_o among_o the_o papist_n how_o many_o under_o the_o veil_n of_o virginity_n conceal_v the_o gross_a impurity_n and_o under_o the_o appearance_n of_o poverty_n be_v covetous_a and_o rapacious_a but_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o unless_o our_o righteousness_n exceed_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n we_o can_v enter_v into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n if_o our_o obedience_n be_v not_o of_o equal_a extent_n to_o the_o rule_n if_o there_o be_v a_o indulgence_n to_o contravene_n any_o precept_n the_o word_n of_o st._n james_n be_v decisive_a and_o convince_a whoever_o shall_v keep_v the_o whole_a law_n and_o yet_o offend_v in_o own_o instance_n he_o be_v guilty_a of_o all_o in_o one_o allow_v sin_n of_o omission_n or_o commission_n there_o be_v a_o universal_a disobedience_n to_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o lawgiver_n although_o the_o best_a saint_n on_o earth_n be_v not_o without_o sin_n yet_o the_o least_o be_v without_o guile_n 2._o sincerity_n produce_v constancy_n there_o be_v a_o strict_a connexion_n between_o the_o lead_a faculty_n and_o their_o inward_a operation_n with_o the_o outward_a action_n according_a to_o the_o renew_a temper_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n such_o be_v the_o tenor_n of_o the_o life_n pure_a religion_n and_o undefiled_a before_o god_n that_o be_v exercise_v from_o divine_a principle_n and_o eternal_a motive_n will_v fortify_v a_o christian_a against_o all_o temptation_n he_o will_v neither_o be_v allure_v nor_o terrifle_v from_o his_o duty_n some_z when_o religion_n be_v in_o public_a esteem_n be_v forward_a professor_n but_o if_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n expose_v they_o to_o reproach_n as_o seditious_a and_o disloyal_a and_o the_o consequence_n of_o that_o reproach_n they_o will_v comply_v with_o the_o temper_n of_o the_o time_n to_o secure_v their_o secular_a interest_n and_o as_o there_o be_v change_n of_o garment_n summer_n and_o winter_n garment_n according_a to_o the_o season_n of_o the_o year_n so_o they_o have_v change_n of_o religion_n as_o the_o time_n vary_v persecution_n discover_v they_o to_o have_v be_v formal_a professor_n without_o the_o spirit_n and_o depth_n of_o religion_n in_o their_o heart_n but_o sincere_a christian_n be_v conspicuous_o such_o in_o the_o fiery_a trial_n it_o be_v observe_v in_o dig_v well_n in_o the_o hot_a month_n of_o july_n and_o august_n if_o a_o vein_n of_o water_n flow_v it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o a_o last_a spring_n thus_o if_o in_o the_o burn_a heat_n of_o persecution_n the_o profession_n of_o the_o pure_a religion_n be_v declare_v it_o be_v a_o argument_n it_o proceed_v from_o sincere_a grace_n that_o will_v be_v spring_v up_o to_o everlasting_a life_n there_o be_v numerous_a example_n of_o the_o holy_a martyr_n who_o despise_v the_o enrage_a world_n as_o a_o swarm_n of_o angry_a fly_n and_o turn_v persecution_n into_o a_o pleasure_n and_o with_o undecline_a fervour_n and_o courage_n persevere_v in_o the_o confession_n of_o christ_n till_o they_o obtain_v the_o crown_n of_o eternal_a life_n unfeigned_a faith_n and_o sincere_a love_n be_v the_o strong_a security_n against_o apostasy_n he_o that_o be_v sound_a at_o the_o centre_n be_v unshaken_a by_o storm_n the_o double-minded_n who_o heart_n be_v divide_v between_o the_o enlighten_v conscience_n and_o their_o carnal_a affection_n be_v unstable_a in_o all_o their_o way_n some_o have_v short_a expire_a fit_n of_o devotion_n while_o they_o be_v in_o afflict_a circumstance_n either_o by_o terror_n of_o conscience_n or_o disease_n in_o their_o body_n or_o disaster_n in_o their_o estate_n they_o resolve_v to_o be_v regular_a and_o reform_v in_o their_o life_n to_o walk_v circumspect_o and_o exact_o but_o when_o they_o be_v release_v from_o their_o trouble_n they_o degenerate_a from_o their_o design_n and_o falsify_v their_o resolution_n and_o like_o a_o lion_n slip_v from_o his_o chain_n that_o return_v to_o his_o fierceness_n with_o his_o liberty_n so_o they_o relapse_n into_o their_o old_a rebellious_a sin_n the_o reason_n be_v they_o be_v not_o inward_o cleanse_v from_o the_o love_n of_o sin_n nor_o change_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o god_n in_o all_o their_o misery_n they_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o unrenewed_a nature_n though_o restrain_v from_o the_o visible_a eruption_n of_o it_o but_o real_a saint_n have_v their_o conversation_n all_o of_o a_o colour_n in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n they_o be_v holy_a and_o heavenly_a in_o short_a sincere_a christian_n study_v the_o divine_a law_n to_o know_v the_o extent_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o delight_n in_o the_o discovery_n of_o it_o they_o do_v not_o decline_v the_o strict_a scrutiny_n it_o be_v david_n prayer_n lord_n search_v i_o and_o try_v i_o and_o see_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o way_n of_o wickedness_n in_o i_o and_o discover_v it_o to_o i_o that_o i_o may_v forsake_v it_o conscience_n will_v be_v quick_a and_o tender_a like_o the_o eye_n which_o if_o any_o dirt_n be_v in_o it_o weep_v it_o out_o there_o may_v be_v rebel_n in_o a_o loyal_a city_n but_o they_o be_v not_o conceal_v and_o cherish_v the_o loyal_a subject_n search_v to_o discover_v they_o and_o cast_v they_o out_o but_o the_o hypocrite_n hate_v the_o light_n because_o their_o deed_n be_v evil_a they_o cherish_v a_o wilful_a ignorance_n that_o they_o may_v free_o enjoy_v their_o lusts._n the_o sincere_a christian_a aim_n at_o perfection_n he_o pray_v resolve_v watch_n mourn_v and_o strive_v against_o every_o sin_n this_o be_v as_o necessary_a to_o uprightness_n as_o it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v be_v without_o spot_n or_o blemish_v here_o but_o the_o hypocrite_n though_o he_o external_o comply_v with_o some_o precept_n of_o easy_a obedience_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o forsake_v his_o sweet_a sin_n now_o if_o any_o sin_n be_v entertain_v or_o unrenounce_v by_o a_o person_n he_o be_v unregenerate_a and_o a_o captive_n of_o satan_n as_o if_o a_o bird_n be_v ensnare_v by_o one_o leg_n it_o be_v as_o sure_o the_o prey_n of_o the_o the_o fowler_n as_o if_o it_o be_v seize_v by_o both_o wing_n i_o shall_v only_o add_v sincerity_n commend_v we_o to_o god_n it_o give_v value_n to_o the_o mean_a service_n and_o the_o want_n of_o it_o corrupt_v the_o most_o eminent_a service_n jehu_n zeal_n be_v a_o bloody_a murder_n though_o the_o destruction_n of_o ahab_n family_n be_v command_v by_o god_n the_o consciousness_n of_o sincerity_n rejoice_v the_o live_a saint_n with_o present_a comfort_n and_o the_o die_a with_o the_o hope_n of_o future_a happiness_n the_o apostle_n when_o surround_v with_o calamity_n declare_v this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n that_o 〈◊〉_d with_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o this_o world_n hezekiah_n have_v receive_v a_o mortal_a message_n by_o the_o prophet_n address_v himself_o to_o god_n remember_v o_o lord_n i_o beseech_v thou_o how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n truth_n and_o perfection_n be_v equivalent_a this_o be_v a_o revive_a cordial_n
the_o object_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o reason_n buâ—_n in_o different_a respect_n reason_n may_v discover_v they_o by_o ascend_v from_o effect_n to_o their_o cause_n or_o descend_v from_o cause_n to_o their_o effect_n faith_n receive_v they_o as_o reveal_v in_o scripture_n by_o faith_n we_o know_v 11._o the_o world_n be_v make_v which_o may_v be_v prove_v by_o clear_a reason_n 2._o the_o object_n of_o faith_n the_o general_a object_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o special_a be_v those_o doctrine_n and_o promise_n and_o thing_n that_o reason_n can_v discover_v by_o its_o own_o light_n nor_o perfect_o understand_v when_o reveal_v the_o word_n of_o god_n contain_v a_o narrative_a of_o thing_n past_a and_o prediction_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v the_o destruction_n of_o the_o old_a world_n by_o a_o deluge_n of_o water_n and_o the_o consumption_n of_o the_o present_a world_n by_o a_o deluge_n of_o fire_n be_v object_n of_o faith_n but_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o the_o trinity_n of_o divine_a person_n the_o incarnation_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n his_o eternal_a counsel_n respect_v man_n redemption_n never_o enter_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o conceive_v but_o be_v as_o far_o above_o our_o thought_n as_o the_o heaven_n be_v above_o the_o earth_n and_o can_v be_v comprehend_v god_n may_v be_v consider_v absolute_o in_o himself_o or_o as_o reveal_v himself_o and_o his_o will_n to_o we_o we_o have_v some_o knowledge_n of_o his_o be_v and_o divine_a attribute_n wisdom_n power_n goodness_n in_o his_o work_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n but_o we_o believe_v in_o he_o as_o declare_v his_o mind_n and_o will_n to_o we_o in_o his_o word_n we_o may_v know_v a_o person_n and_o his_o excellent_a virtue_n intellectual_a and_o moral_a but_o we_o can_v believe_v in_o he_o without_o some_o discovery_n of_o his_o thought_n and_o affection_n to_o we_o 3._o the_o motive_n of_o belief_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v divine_a faith_n must_v have_v a_o divine_a foundation_n faith_n may_v be_v absolute_o true_a and_o relative_o false_a many_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n upon_o no_o other_o ground_n than_o the_o turk_n believe_v the_o alcoran_n because_o it_o be_v the_o reign_a religion_n of_o their_o country_n and_o by_o the_o impression_n of_o example_n from_o hence_o their_o faith_n be_v like_o the_o house_n build_v on_o the_o sand_n and_o when_o a_o storm_n arise_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o fall_v the_o firm_a foundation_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o essential_a supreme_a perfection_n of_o god_n unerring_a knowledge_n immutable_a truth_n infinite_a goodness_n almighty_a power_n it_o be_v equal_o impossible_a that_o he_o shall_v be_v deceive_v or_o deceive_v his_o infinite_a understanding_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o his_o perfect_a veracity_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o will_n be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o power_n for_o to_o will_n and_o to_o do_v be_v the_o same_o thing_n in_o he_o it_o be_v true_a the_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n by_o experimental_a sense_n be_v a_o clear_a perception_n than_o the_o persuasion_n of_o they_o by_o faith_n the_o first_o be_v to_o see_v the_o original_n the_o other_o be_v to_o see_v the_o copy_n that_o usual_o fall_v short_a of_o it_o it_o be_v therefore_o say_v we_o now_o see_v in_o a_o glass_n dark_o but_o the_o divine_a testimony_n in_o itself_o have_v the_o most_o convince_a evidence_n above_o the_o assurance_n we_o can_v have_v by_o the_o report_n of_o our_o sense_n which_o often_o deceive_v we_o through_o the_o indisposition_n of_o the_o faculty_n or_o the_o unfitness_n of_o the_o medium_n or_o distance_n of_o the_o object_n or_o the_o knowledge_n of_o thing_n by_o discursive_a ratiocination_n the_o objective_a certainty_n of_o faith_n be_v infallible_a we_o know_v with_o the_o high_a assurance_n that_o god_n can_v no_o more_o lie_v than_o he_o can_v die_v it_o be_v say_v all_o thing_n be_v possible_a with_o god_n but_o to_o lie_v or_o die_v be_v not_o possibility_n but_o passibility_n not_o the_o effect_n of_o power_n but_o proceed_v from_o weakness_n we_o know_v the_o sacred_a scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o the_o signature_n of_o his_o perfection_n wisdom_n holiness_n goodness_n justice_n and_o by_o the_o miracle_n perform_v by_o the_o penman_n of_o they_o that_o prove_v they_o be_v divine_o inspire_v and_o consequent_o infallible_a in_o what_o they_o write_v from_o hence_o faith_n be_v often_o express_v by_o knowledge_n nicodemus_n give_v this_o testimony_n of_o our_o saviour_n we_o know_v thou_o 2._o be_v a_o teacher_n come_v from_o god_n we_o believe_v and_o be_v sure_a thou_o be_v that_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o the_o live_a god_n we_o know_v that_o if_o the_o 1._o house_n of_o this_o earthly_a tabernable_a be_v dissolve_v we_o have_v a_o building_n make_v without_o hand_n eternal_a in_o the_o heaven_n we_o know_v that_o he_o 5._o be_v manifest_v that_o he_o may_v take_v away_o sin_n we_o know_v that_o when_o christ_n shall_v appear_v 3._o we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v i_o will_v not_o insist_v upon_o the_o particular_a supernatural_a doctrine_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n for_o there_o be_v little_a new_a to_o be_v say_v upon_o those_o point_n if_o man_n with_o renew_a mind_n and_o heart_n consider_v the_o testimony_n of_o scripture_n there_o will_v need_v no_o more_o argue_v but_o i_o will_v lay_v down_o some_o consideration_n that_o prove_v divine_a faith_n to_o be_v the_o reasonable_a act_n of_o the_o humane_a understanding_n 2._o answer_v the_o objection_n allege_v to_o justify_v the_o disbelief_n of_o divine_a doctrine_n that_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o conceive_v nor_o comprehend_v 1._o that_o god_n be_v true_a be_v a_o principle_n immediate_o evident_a not_o dependent_o upon_o a_o antecedent_n motive_n this_o by_o its_o native_a irresistible_a evidence_n be_v beyond_o all_o dispute_n and_o exempt_v from_o all_o critical_a inquiry_n there_o be_v no_o principle_n write_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n with_o clear_a character_n it_o be_v the_o saying_n of_o a_o wise_a heathen_a if_o god_n will_v converse_v visible_o with_o man_n he_o will_v assume_v light_n for_o a_o body_n and_o have_v truth_n for_o his_o soul_n god_n be_v most_o jealous_a of_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o truth_n thou_o have_v magnify_v thy_o word_n above_o all_o thy_o name_n truth_n be_v the_o supreme_a character_n of_o the_o deity_n the_o apostle_n build_v the_o assurance_n of_o christian_n upon_o the_o promise_n and_o their_o strong_a consolation_n upon_o this_o infallible_a rock_n god_n that_o 6._o can_v lie_v from_o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o in_o supernatural_a doctrine_n we_o must_v first_o consider_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o revealer_n and_o then_o the_o nature_n of_o doctrine_n 2._o god_n jurisdiction_n extend_v to_o our_o understanding_n as_o well_o as_o to_o our_o will_n he_o rule_v our_o understanding_n by_o light_n our_o will_n by_o empire_n if_o god_n do_v command_v we_o to_o believe_v only_o truth_n in_o themselves_o evident_a our_o receive_v they_o will_v not_o be_v a_o undoubted_a respect_n to_o his_o authority_n but_o to_o believe_v his_o testimony_n without_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n be_v a_o obedience_n worthy_a of_o he_o and_o we_o be_v equal_o oblige_v to_o believe_v his_o testimony_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o thing_n notwithstanding_o the_o reluctancy_n of_o the_o carnal_a mind_n and_o their_o seem_a repugnance_n to_o the_o natural_a notion_n of_o reason_n as_o to_o obey_v his_o precept_n notwithstanding_o the_o reluctancy_n of_o the_o corrupt_a will_n and_o the_o inclination_n to_o forbid_a thing_n 3._o god_n never_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o supernatural_a thing_n reveal_v in_o his_o word_n but_o afford_v sufficient_a conviction_n that_o they_o be_v divine_a revelation_n when_o god_n depute_v any_o by_o commission_n for_o a_o extraordinary_a work_n he_o always_o afford_v a_o light_n to_o discover_v the_o commission_n be_v uncounterfeit_v moses_n be_v send_v from_o god_n with_o a_o command_n to_o pharaoh_n to_o release_v the_o israelite_n from_o their_o cruel_a servitude_n and_o he_o have_v the_o wonder-working_a rod_n to_o authorise_v his_o commission_n and_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o message_n by_o miracle_n the_o divinity_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o rule_n of_o faith_n shine_v with_o that_o clear_a and_o strong_a evidence_n that_o only_o those_o who_o mind_n be_v prevent_v with_o a_o conceit_n of_o the_o impossibility_n of_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o it_o and_o pervert_v by_o their_o passion_n can_v resist_v it_o colour_a object_n be_v not_o discern_v more_o clear_o by_o their_o colour_n nor_o light_n by_o its_o lustre_n than_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o divine_a revelation_n reason_n be_v a_o essential_a faculty_n of_o man_n and_o by_o it_o we_o be_v direct_v
be_v damn_v we_o can_v make_v law_n to_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o god_n judgement_n but_o must_v receive_v they_o however_o some_o may_v flatter_v err_v person_n in_o their_o security_n it_o will_v be_v find_v in_o the_o great_a day_n that_o infidelity_n in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n will_v have_v no_o excuse_n before_o god_n the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v like_o the_o pillar_n of_o cloud_n and_o of_o fire_n that_o be_v darkness_n to_o the_o egyptian_n but_o enlighten_v the_o israelite_n in_o their_o passage_n out_o of_o egypt_n it_o be_v conceal_v from_o the_o proud_a and_o reveal_v to_o the_o humble_a the_o humane_a mind_n be_v imperious_a and_o turbulent_a and_o averse_a from_o submit_v to_o god_n authority_n who_o command_v the_o wise_a and_o most_o understanding_n to_o yield_v full_a assent_n to_o his_o word_n as_o the_o mean_a capacity_n the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v foolishness_n to_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o know_v they_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v there_o be_v no_o proportion_n between_o the_o faculty_n and_o the_o object_n you_o may_v as_o well_o see_v a_o angel_n by_o the_o light_n of_o a_o candle_n as_o see_v the_o great_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o the_o natural_a mind_n their_o reality_n beauty_n and_o excellency_n so_o as_o saving_o to_o believe_v they_o faith_n 17._o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o be_v style_v the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n who_o discover_v the_o object_n and_o enlighten_v the_o mind_n to_o see_v it_o and_o by_o free_a prevent_a grace_n incline_v the_o will_n to_o embrace_v it_o the_o holy_a spirit_n alone_o can_v pull_v down_o strong_a 10._o hold_n and_o cast_v down_o imagination_n and_o every_o high_a thing_n that_o exalt_v itself_o against_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o bring_v into_o captivity_n every_o thought_n to_o the_o obedience_n of_o christ._n the_o spirit_n overcome_v the_o pride_n of_o the_o natural_a understanding_n by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o revealer_n and_o enlighten_v the_o ignorance_n of_o it_o by_o the_o infallible_a revelation_n violence_n and_o temporal_a respect_n may_v by_o terror_n and_o allurement_n make_v man_n hypocrite_n but_o can_v make_v they_o sincere_a believer_n there_o will_v be_v a_o form_n of_o religion_n without_o and_o atheism_n within_o it_o be_v special_a grace_n inspire_v the_o elect_a of_o god_n with_o light_a to_o see_v spiritual_a thing_n and_o require_v special_a thankfulness_n let_v we_o humble_o pray_v to_o the_o father_n of_o mercy_n and_o of_o light_n that_o he_o will_v reveal_v the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n to_o the_o mind_n of_o men._n if_o the_o gospel_n be_v hide_v it_o be_v hide_v to_o those_o that_o be_v lose_v in_o who_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n have_v blind_v the_o mind_n 4._o of_o they_o who_o believe_v not_o lest_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o image_n of_o god_n shall_v shine_v into_o they_o chap._n vii_o the_o power_n of_o faith_n to_o overcome_v all_o that_o be_v opposite_a to_o our_o salvation_n a_o speculative_a assent_n to_o supernatural_a truth_n be_v not_o save_v the_o efficacy_n of_o faith_n against_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o world_n proceed_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o its_o object_n and_o the_o degree_n of_o assent_n and_o the_o frequent_a application_n of_o they_o to_o our_o heart_n there_o be_v a_o incomparable_a difference_n between_o the_o good_a and_o evil_a thing_n that_o be_v present_a and_o those_o that_o be_v future_a the_o evidence_n and_o importance_n of_o future_a good_a thing_n and_o our_o interest_n in_o they_o fix_v our_o assent_n and_o make_v it_o effectual_a justify_v faith_n consider_v in_o its_o nature_n and_o purify_n virtue_n faith_n in_o the_o disposal_n of_o divine_a providence_n be_v a_o fundamental_a principle_n from_o whence_o many_o practical_a consequence_n be_v derive_v the_o heathen_n have_v very_o disparage_v conceit_n of_o god_n providence_n the_o scripture_n declare_v that_o nothing_o happen_v without_o the_o knowledge_n the_o will_n either_o permissive_a or_o approve_v and_o the_o order_v providence_n of_o god_n this_o be_v very_o influential_a to_o the_o life_n of_o men._n 4._o i_o will_v now_o consider_v the_o power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o faith_n to_o overcome_v all_o that_o be_v opposite_a to_o our_o salvation_n i_o shall_v premise_v there_o be_v a_o common_a delusion_n that_o have_v a_o pernicious_a influence_n into_o the_o mind_n and_o life_n of_o many_o that_o those_o be_v true_a believer_n who_o yield_v a_o dry_a and_o barren_a assent_n to_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n without_o the_o practical_a belief_n of_o they_o they_o do_v not_o foment_n and_o authorise_v doubt_n by_o the_o pretence_n of_o reason_n nor_o excite_v revolt_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o entertain_v objection_n against_o supernatural_a truth_n but_o they_o never_o feel_v the_o spirit_n and_o power_n of_o faith_n in_o raise_v they_o above_o the_o low_a descent_n of_o carnal_a mind_n and_o set_v their_o affection_n on_o thing_n above_o the_o love_n of_o the_o present_a world_n like_o a_o stupify_a wine_n cause_n in_o they_o a_o forgetfulness_n of_o heaven_n and_o that_o which_o be_v the_o most_o dangerous_a idolatry_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n be_v seat_v in_o their_o heart_n the_o understanding_n submit_v to_o divine_a revelation_n but_o the_o will_n be_v rebellious_a against_o the_o divine_a command_n they_o believe_v what_o be_v necessary_a to_o believe_v but_o not_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o do_v they_o be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o speculative_a faith_n that_o cost_v nothing_o and_o will_v go_v with_o they_o to_o hell_n for_o the_o devil_n believe_v supernatural_a truth_n they_o be_v rich_a in_o the_o notion_n of_o faith_n but_o poor_a in_o the_o precept_n of_o obedience_n now_o in_o the_o language_n of_o scripture_n save_v faith_n and_o knowledge_n of_o divine_a thing_n be_v productive_a of_o such_o affection_n and_o action_n as_o be_v correspondent_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n believe_v if_o the_o head_n be_v enlighten_v and_o the_o heart_n in_o darkness_n if_o one_o profess_v never_o so_o full_o his_o assent_n and_o adherence_n to_o all_o the_o article_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o beam_n of_o faith_n be_v not_o visible_a in_o his_o conversation_n he_o be_v a_o infidel_n he_o that_o say_v i_o know_v christ_n or_o 4._o which_o be_v equivalent_a believe_v in_o he_o and_o keep_v not_o his_o commandment_n be_v a_o liar_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v not_o in_o he_o every_o habitual_a sinner_n be_v a_o unbeliever_n unfeigned_a faith_n receive_v the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o all_o its_o part_n doctrine_n command_n promise_n not_o only_o as_o infallible_o true_a but_o superlative_o good_a and_o precious_a and_o entire_o embrace_v they_o with_o a_o despise_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o may_v come_v in_o competition_n with_o they_o and_o express_v the_o esteem_n and_o love_n of_o they_o in_o the_o practice_n the_o two_o inseparable_a property_n of_o save_v faith_n be_v it_o be_v humble_a and_o submissive_a to_o divine_a revelation_n it_o be_v dutiful_a and_o obedient_a to_o divine_a precept_n this_o be_v premise_v i_o will_v consider_v the_o power_n of_o faith_n proceed_v 1._o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o object_n upon_o which_o it_o be_v exercise_v 2._o from_o the_o degree_n of_o its_o assent_n and_o adherence_n to_o they_o 3._o from_o the_o serious_a and_o frequent_a application_n of_o the_o object_n to_o our_o heart_n 1._o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o object_n upon_o which_o it_o be_v exercise_v now_o between_o they_o and_o the_o most_o entice_v good_a thing_n and_o the_o most_o fearful_a evil_n in_o this_o present_a state_n there_o be_v a_o incomparable_a difference_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o this_o be_v the_o victory_n 5._o that_o overcome_v the_o world_n even_o our_o faith_n victory_n suppose_v a_o fight_n and_o a_o fight_n suppose_v a_o enemy_n the_o enemy_n be_v declare_v the_o world_n include_v the_o man_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o it_o this_o enemy_n be_v in_o combination_n with_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o flesh._n he_o be_v style_v the_o prince_n of_o this_o world_n that_o manage_n the_o temptation_n of_o it_o for_o the_o ruin_n of_o soul_n he_o try_v his_o poison_n according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o man_n in_o hope_n of_o work_n in_o they_o he_o present_v to_o some_o a_o charm_a cup_n to_o intoxicate_a they_o with_o the_o pleasure_n of_o sin_n he_o tempt_v other_o with_o thing_n of_o lustre_n with_o title_n of_o honour_n and_o dignity_n that_o dazzle_v their_o mind_n that_o they_o can_v give_v a_o true_a and_o safe_a judgement_n of_o thing_n he_o allure_v other_o with_o riches_n and_o as_o heat_n be_v double_v by_o reflection_n so_o he_o enforce_v his_o
faith_n contemplate_v the_o judge_n upon_o a_o white_a throne_n the_o emblem_n of_o his_o holiness_n who_o none_o can_v surprise_v or_o resist_v let_v faith_n make_v that_o day_n as_o present_v when_o there_o will_v be_v no_o place_n for_o repentance_n when_o the_o fountain_n of_o mercy_n to_o sinner_n will_v be_v seal_v for_o ever_o when_o the_o book_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o death_n shall_v be_v open_v and_o all_o man_n shall_v receive_v a_o irrevocable_a judgement_n a_o judgement_n so_o fearful_a that_o sinner_n how_o great_a and_o terrible_a so_o ever_o they_o be_v in_o this_o world_n to_o other_o shall_v call_v to_o the_o mountain_n to_o fall_v on_o they_o and_o the_o hill_n to_o cover_v they_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o the_o lamb_n for_o his_o day_n be_v come_v a_o judgement_n so_o strict_a that_o the_o righteous_a shall_v scarce_o be_v save_v now_o what_o impression_n of_o torment_a fear_n or_o revive_a hope_n will_v the_o strong_a belief_n of_o the_o eternal_a judgement_n and_o the_o consequence_n of_o it_o make_v in_o we_o when_o heaven_n and_o hell_n shall_v divide_v all_o man_n according_a as_o we_o be_v prepare_v or_o unprepared_a for_o the_o trial_n of_o that_o decide_n day_n how_o will_v it_o make_v we_o circumspect_a and_o cautious_a to_o avoid_v evil_a active_a and_o ardent_a in_o do_v good_a for_o every_o thing_n must_v be_v bring_v in_o judgement_n how_o ambitious_a and_o diligent_a to_o be_v accept_v of_o our_o judge_n let_v faith_n open_v a_o window_n into_o heaven_n and_o represent_v the_o saint_n in_o their_o sunlike_a brightness_n their_o glory_n and_o joy_n and_o triumphant_a felicity_n in_o the_o eternal_a kingdom_n where_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o how_o will_v the_o believe_a view_n of_o this_o rectify_v our_o mind_n and_o convince_v we_o that_o nothing_o deserve_v our_o high_a esteem_n and_o love_n but_o the_o favour_n and_o fruition_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n let_v faith_n open_v the_o fatal_a gate_n of_o hell_n that_o be_v never_o shut_v upon_o the_o damn_a and_o discover_v the_o scene_n of_o woe_n the_o sight_n of_o horror_n the_o torment_a passion_n of_o reprobate_n their_o desperate_a sorrow_n for_o the_o loss_n of_o heaven_n and_o fierce_a indignation_n that_o other_o enjoy_v it_o both_o which_o be_v employ_v in_o their_o weep_n and_o wail_v and_o gnash_v of_o tooth_n how_o powerful_a will_v this_o representation_n be_v to_o keep_v we_o in_o awe_n and_o order_n to_o control_v the_o lust_n and_o licentiousness_n of_o carnal_a appetite_n how_o will_v this_o double_a vision_n make_v we_o esteem_v all_o the_o good_a thing_n here_o as_o vile_a as_o dross_n and_o all_o the_o evil_a as_o light_v as_o feather_n in_o comparison_n of_o eternal_a thing_n how_o will_v this_o inspire_v we_o with_o resolution_n to_o take_v heaven_n by_o violence_n and_o to_o fly_v from_o the_o wrath_n to_o come_v 3._o the_o efficacy_n of_o faith_n proceed_v from_o the_o serious_a and_o frequent_a application_n of_o eternal_a object_n to_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n all_o that_o be_v christian_n in_o profession_n prefer_v in_o the_o idea_n and_o speculation_n eternal_a thing_n before_o temporal_a but_o in_o practice_n and_o choice_n the_o most_o prefer_v temporal_a before_o eternal_a present_a and_o sensible_a thing_n strong_o affect_v the_o carnal_a faculty_n and_o excite_v the_o natural_a inclination_n that_o be_v dormant_a in_o the_o absence_n of_o allure_a object_n but_o when_o awaken_v they_o distract_v and_o scatter_v the_o mind_n from_o a_o just_a compare_v of_o thing_n present_a and_o thing_n future_a and_o the_o will_n apply_v the_o thought_n to_o what_o be_v delightful_a to_o the_o carnal_a part_n and_o the_o application_n determine_v the_o choice_n the_o interposition_n of_o earthly_a thing_n eclipse_v the_o light_n of_o faith_n and_o weaken_v the_o reflection_n of_o that_o light_n upon_o the_o mind_n a_o strong_a temptation_n deface_v the_o impression_n of_o thing_n future_a though_o infinite_o great_a and_o consequent_o the_o passion_n prevail_v and_o faith_n be_v vanquish_v what_o man_n that_o have_v heaven_n and_o hell_n in_o his_o view_n and_o consider_v that_o the_o day_n of_o death_n and_o judgement_n be_v equal_o uncertain_a as_o to_o the_o fix_a time_n and_o equal_o certain_a as_o to_o the_o event_n and_o that_o this_o short_a life_n must_v issue_v either_o into_o river_n of_o pleasure_n for_o ever_o or_o into_o a_o abyss_n of_o endless_a misery_n can_v be_v doubtful_a a_o moment_n what_o to_o choose_v and_o what_o to_o avoid_v yet_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o vast_a number_n of_o man_n that_o be_v between_o two_o eternity_n be_v indifferent_a and_o unconcerned_a into_o which_o their_o lot_n shall_v be_v determine_v the_o enchant_a world_n darken_v the_o remembrance_n and_o damp_n the_o desire_n of_o heaven_n and_o extinguish_v the_o fear_n of_o hell_n transient_a thought_n of_o future_a thing_n can_v excite_v and_o influence_n the_o affection_n nor_o regulate_v the_o will_n and_o action_n according_a as_o the_o moment_n of_o they_o require_v moses_n despise_v the_o pomp_n and_o pleasure_n of_o the_o egyptian_a court_n and_o choose_v affliction_n with_o the_o people_n of_o god_n because_o he_o have_v a_o intent_n and_o fix_a eye_n upon_o the_o future_a reward_n paul_n have_v a_o heavenly_a vision_n the_o idea_n of_o which_o be_v always_o bright_a in_o his_o memory_n and_o a_o heavenly_a conversation_n now_o faith_n supply_v the_o want_n of_o vision_n and_o if_o its_o act_n be_v not_o interrupt_v by_o earthly_a object_n deadness_n will_v continual_o inspire_v we_o with_o suitable_a affection_n to_o eternal_a thing_n above_o all_o other_o mean_n let_v we_o fly_v to_o prayer_n that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n by_o his_o illuminate_a guidance_n will_v direct_v our_o mind_n and_o actuate_v our_o faith_n we_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n that_o 12._o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n give_v we_o of_o god_n that_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v our_o remembrancer_n and_o strong_o impress_v eternal_a thing_n upon_o we_o without_o his_o influence_n our_o consideration_n will_v be_v cold_a and_o ineffectual_a 2._o there_o be_v a_o justify_v faith_n the_o apostle_n declare_v be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n this_o be_v very_o clear_o open_v in_o the_o gospel_n yet_o there_o have_v be_v late_o publish_v some_o contentious_a write_n about_o it_o mix_v with_o such_o raillery_n and_o contumely_n that_o have_v open_v a_o scandalous_a scene_n and_o expose_v religion_n to_o the_o derision_n of_o libertine_n and_o profane_a spirit_n and_o affect_v the_o godly_a with_o sorrowful_a impression_n and_o with_o earnest_a long_n after_o the_o kingdom_n of_o light_n and_o love_n where_o ignorance_n and_o strife_n be_v abolish_v for_o ever_o injurious_a language_n convince_v none_o but_o render_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n more_o averse_a from_o instruction_n we_o be_v not_o likely_a to_o discover_v the_o truth_n in_o a_o mist_n of_o passion_n but_o when_o truth_n be_v calm_o convey_v the_o mind_n be_v more_o attentive_a to_o receive_v it_o and_o its_o convince_a and_o persuasive_a power_n insinuate_v into_o we_o christian_n love_n will_v lessen_v the_o number_n and_o allay_v the_o heat_n of_o our_o controversy_n i_o have_v discourse_v elsewhere_o concern_v sin_n justify_v faith_n and_o shall_v now_o very_o brief_o glance_v at_o some_o thing_n wherein_o its_o nature_n and_o purify_n virtue_n consist_v justification_n be_v a_o act_n of_o god_n as_o supreme_a judge_n invest_v with_o the_o relation_n of_o a_o father_n wherein_o his_o majesty_n and_o mercy_n be_v equal_o illustrious_a in_o pardon_v our_o sin_n and_o confer_v upon_o we_o a_o right_a to_o eternal_a life_n for_o the_o satisfaction_n and_o merit_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o we_o and_o receive_v by_o faith_n faith_n be_v the_o condition_n that_o qualify_v we_o to_o have_v pardon_v apply_v to_o we_o and_o its_o 12._o nature_n consist_v in_o receive_v christ_n upon_o the_o term_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o be_v our_o unfeigned_a accept_v he_o as_o our_o prince_n 31._o and_o saviour_n and_o entire_a reliance_n upon_o he_o the_o general_a belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o justify_v faith_n but_o our_o regular_a trust_n in_o the_o pardon_v grace_n of_o god_n necessary_o include_v our_o perform_v the_o condition_n of_o the_o promise_n that_o be_v a_o reliance_n on_o christ_n join_v with_o a_o sincere_a resolution_n to_o obey_v he_o a_o particular_a persuasion_n that_o our_o sin_n be_v pardon_v be_v not_o justify_v faith_n we_o be_v command_v to_o believe_v that_o we_o may_v be_v pardon_v many_o sincere_a believer_n have_v distract_n doubt_n about_o their_o pardon_n the_o matter_n be_v of_o infinite_a importance_n they_o be_v fearful_a in_o the_o inquiry_n of_o their_o title_n to_o it_o and_o other_o be_v deceive_v with_o presumption_n in_o stead_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o security_n in_o stead_n of_o
peace_n with_o god_n and_o by_o this_o we_o may_v understand_v from_o whence_o the_o purify_n virtue_n of_o faith_n as_o it_o justify_v proceed_v for_o it_o necessary_o suppose_v we_o to_o be_v under_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o in_o desperate_a misery_n that_o we_o be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n tribunal_n who_o be_v a_o righteous_a and_o holy_a judge_n angry_a and_o incense_v for_o our_o sin_n and_o will_v be_v a_o revenge_a judge_n to_o all_o that_o continue_v in_o their_o guilty_a state_n and_o that_o our_o pardon_n and_o right_o to_o eternal_a life_n be_v to_o be_v entire_o ascribe_v to_o the_o sovereign_a mercy_n of_o god_n the_o original_a cause_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n the_o meritorious_a cause_n 25._o of_o it_o now_o faith_n work_v by_o love_n the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o we_o apprehend_v by_o faith_n and_o our_o love_n to_o he_o which_o be_v the_o reflection_n of_o his_o beam_n shine_v in_o our_o heart_n and_o be_v the_o powerful_a principle_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o the_o well-grounded_n belief_n that_o god_n will_v save_v we_o and_o bring_v we_o to_o eternal_a glory_n do_v natural_o and_o necessary_o inspire_v the_o breast_n of_o a_o christian_a with_o a_o holy_a fear_n of_o sin_n that_o provoke_v he_o and_o a_o constant_a care_n to_o please_v he_o in_o all_o thing_n beside_o god_n in_o dispense_n his_o pardon_v mercy_n require_v our_o perseverance_n in_o a_o holy_a conversation_n what_o our_o saviour_n say_v to_o the_o man_n miraculous_o cure_v of_o his_o inveterate_a disease_n behold_v 14._o thou_o be_v make_v whole_a sin_z no_o more_o lest_o a_o worse_a thing_n befall_v thou_o be_v virtual_o say_v to_o every_o pardon_v believer_n when_o god_n speak_v peace_n to_o his_o people_n it_o be_v with_o this_o caution_n let_v they_o not_o return_v any_o more_o to_o folly_n i_o shall_v under_o another_o head_n speak_v of_o faith_n as_o the_o effectual_a mean_n of_o our_o sanctification_n and_o now_o will_v proceed_v 3._o faith_n in_o the_o disposal_n of_o all_o thing_n by_o the_o infallible_a providence_n of_o god_n be_v one_o of_o those_o universal_a principle_n those_o prime_a and_o great_a truth_n rich_a in_o practical_a consequence_n that_o be_v powerful_a to_o compose_v and_o calm_v our_o mind_n and_o heart_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o visible_a disorder_n and_o confusion_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o present_a world_n the_o heathen_n measure_v the_o divine_a perfection_n by_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o narrow_a understanding_n they_o can_v not_o conceive_v that_o one_o god_n be_v able_a to_o order_v all_o thing_n and_o form_v a_o vast_a number_n of_o subordinate_a god_n to_o who_o the_o care_n of_o particular_a thing_n be_v commit_v they_o blaspheme_v he_o in_o their_o imagination_n think_v he_o to_o be_v like_o mortal_a king_n insufficient_a to_o govern_v immediate_o several_a kingdom_n and_o nation_n divers_a in_o their_o custom_n and_o language_n who_o be_v constrain_v to_o manage_v their_o affair_n by_o the_o number_n variety_n and_o order_n of_o officer_n vice-roys_n to_o divide_v the_o government_n counsellor_n to_o advise_v about_o occurrence_n of_o moment_n secretary_n to_o give_v commission_n and_o make_v dispatch_n judge_n to_o dispense_v the_o law_n military_a officer_n to_o prevent_v tumult_n other_o confine_v his_o presence_n and_o agency_n to_o the_o heaven_n and_o sequester_v he_o from_o the_o low_a world_n the_o mutable_a sphere_n of_o the_o element_n and_o of_o man_n and_o their_o action_n leave_v they_o under_o the_o dominion_n of_o fortune_n other_o think_v that_o he_o be_v so_o content_a with_o his_o own_o felicity_n that_o all_o thing_n without_o he_o be_v distant_a from_o his_o thought_n and_o care_n and_o that_o to_o regard_n and_o regulate_v the_o multitude_n of_o emergency_n in_o this_o low_a world_n will_v disturb_v his_o felicity_n thus_o the_o professor_n of_o wisdom_n like_o the_o foolish_a harpaste_n that_o seneca_n speak_v of_o who_o insensible_a of_o her_o own_o blindness_n always_o complain_v the_o sun_n be_v down_o and_o the_o house_n dark_a think_v all_o thing_n be_v leave_v at_o random_n in_o loose_a disorder_n and_o confusion_n here_o below_o nay_o some_o of_o the_o clear_a spirit_n and_o most_o virtuous_a among_o the_o heathen_a can_v not_o reconcile_v the_o oppression_n and_o infelicity_n of_o good_a man_n and_o the_o prosperity_n of_o the_o wicked_a with_o the_o rectitude_n and_o equity_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n and_o express_v their_o discontent_n in_o the_o style_n and_o accent_n of_o their_o passion_n of_o this_o we_o have_v two_o eminent_a instance_n brutus_n who_o with_o inviolable_a integrity_n have_v as_o a_o senator_n manage_v the_o public_a affair_n and_o with_o undecline_a courage_n endeavour_v to_o recover_v his_o country_n from_o ignominious_a bondage_n when_o vanquish_v by_o the_o usurper_n break_v es_fw-la out_o into_o a_o tragical_a complaint_n o_o virtue_n i_o worship_v thou_o as_o a_o substantial_a good_a a_o deity_n but_o thou_o be_v a_o empty_a name_n a_o idol_n the_o emperor_n titus_n who_o be_v the_o delight_n of_o mankind_n for_o his_o goodness_n and_o benignity_n 73._o surprise_v with_o death_n in_o his_o flourish_a age_n accuse_v heaven_n that_o his_o life_n be_v unjust_o snatch_v from_o he_o the_o way_n and_o thought_n of_o god_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n be_v above_o the_o way_n and_o thought_n of_o man_n as_o the_o heaven_n be_v high_a than_o the_o earth_n and_o if_o his_o wisdom_n have_v not_o descend_v from_o heaven_n and_o discover_v itself_o in_o the_o sanctuary_n we_o shall_v be_v foolish_a and_o like_o the_o beast_n that_o perish_v but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n assure_v we_o that_o nothing_o happen_v in_o this_o tumultuous_a and_o tempestuous_a world_n without_o the_o knowledge_n the_o will_n either_o approve_v or_o permissive_a and_o efficiency_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o to_o dispose_v the_o worst_a evil_n by_o his_o powerful_a providence_n subordinate_o to_o his_o aug._n main_a end_n that_o be_v always_o good_a nothing_o be_v so_o high_a as_o to_o be_v exempt_v from_o the_o dominion_n nor_o so_o low_a as_o to_o be_v exclude_v from_o the_o care_n of_o his_o providence_n 1._o we_o be_v assure_v that_o all_o thing_n and_o person_n be_v under_o the_o eye_n and_o inspection_n of_o his_o providence_n no_o silence_n no_o solitude_n nor_o darkness_n can_v hide_v the_o design_n and_o action_n of_o the_o wicked_a nor_o the_o suffering_n of_o his_o people_n from_o his_o perfect_a knowledge_n how_o many_o million_o of_o inhabitant_n be_v in_o the_o world_n how_o different_a their_o condition_n and_o circumstance_n ebb_v or_o flow_v but_o they_o be_v all_o actual_o and_o distinct_o know_v to_o god_n without_o his_o universal_a and_o infallible_a knowledge_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v govern_v the_o world_n and_o judge_n it_o torquatus_n manlius_n a_o noble_a roman_a though_o blind_a through_o age_n be_v choose_v consul_n and_o general_n to_o rule_v the_o state_n and_o the_o army_n but_o no_o argument_n no_o entreaty_n can_v persuade_v he_o to_o consent_v to_o it_o he_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v absolute_o liv._o absurd_a that_o the_o life_n and_o estate_n of_o other_o shall_v be_v commit_v to_o his_o providence_n and_o protection_n who_o must_v manage_v all_o thing_n by_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o the_o perfection_n of_o god_n knowledge_n qualify_v he_o to_o govern_v the_o world_n and_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o trust_n in_o he_o he_o tell_v the_o number_n of_o the_o star_n that_o seem_v innumerable_a psal._n 147._o 41._o and_o from_o hence_o the_o psalmist_n encourage_v the_o church_n that_o be_v then_o disperss_v in_o captivity_n that_o he_o can_v gather_v 7._o the_o outcast_n of_o israel_n though_o scatter_v in_o strange_a country_n and_o build_v up_o jerusalem_n he_o not_o only_a number_n the_o star_n but_o the_o hair_n of_o our_o head_n that_o be_v of_o so_o small_a consideration_n all_o creature_n be_v support_v in_o their_o being_n and_o operation_n by_o his_o power_n therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a they_o shall_v be_v without_o his_o knowledge_n and_o that_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v do_v by_o they_o or_o befall_v they_o without_o his_o dispose_n will._n 2._o the_o providence_n of_o god_n be_v not_o mere_o theoretical_a but_o active_a and_o order_n all_o thing_n he_o ride_v upon_o the_o heaven_n 26._o that_o be_v regulate_v their_o motion_n as_o easy_o as_o a_o skilful_a rider_n manage_n a_o horse_n the_o star_n that_o in_o the_o language_n of_o scripture_n be_v the_o army_n of_o heaven_n for_o their_o number_n 4._o order_n and_o action_n he_o call_v by_o their_o name_n that_o be_v absolute_o command_v they_o for_o his_o call_n be_v always_o effectual_a and_o exact_o accomplish_v as_o in_o the_o creation_n he_o speak_v and_o it_o be_v do_v he_o command_v and_o it_o stand_v fast_o so_o in_o the_o conservation_n and_o
the_o vital_a member_n from_o hence_o we_o be_v inform_v how_o to_o judge_v of_o our_o hope_n whether_o they_o be_v save_v and_o will_v attend_v we_o to_o the_o gate_n of_o heaven_n if_o they_o purify_v we_o they_o will_v certain_o be_v accomplish_v in_o heavenly_a blessedness_n if_o we_o be_v like_o our_o saviour_n in_o grace_n we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o in_o glory_n but_o carnal_a and_o loose_a hope_n will_v issue_v in_o disappointment_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o every_o visible_a christian_a in_o a_o spiritual_a sense_n be_v a_o builder_n and_o raise_v a_o fabric_n of_o hope_n that_o may_v appear_v fair_a to_o the_o eye_n but_o there_o be_v a_o time_n of_o trial_n a_o come_n that_o will_v discover_v how_o firm_a it_o be_v it_o be_v our_o wisdom_n to_o descend_v to_o the_o foundation_n of_o our_o hope_n that_o we_o may_v understand_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o rock_n that_o can_v be_v shake_v or_o the_o quick_a sand_n that_o can_v bear_v the_o weight_n of_o it_o those_o who_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o do_v they_o build_v upon_o a_o foundation_n more_o stable_a than_o the_o centre_n the_o perfect_a veracity_n of_o god_n be_v engage_v in_o his_o promise_n but_o those_o who_o hear_v without_o do_v build_v upon_o the_o sink_a sand._n carnal_a man_n will_v pretend_v they_o hope_v for_o salvation_n only_o for_o the_o infinite_a mercy_n of_o god_n and_o merit_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v true_a these_o be_v eternal_a foundation_n but_o to_o secure_v a_o building_n the_o superstructure_n must_v be_v strong_o fasten_v to_o the_o foundation_n or_o it_o can_v resist_v a_o storm_n if_o we_o be_v not_o unite_v to_o christ_n by_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n and_o a_o purify_n faith_n our_o hope_n will_v deceive_v we_o when_o sin_n have_v dominion_n which_o be_v certain_o discover_v by_o the_o habitual_a course_n of_o man_n life_n when_o there_o be_v a_o remanent_fw-la affection_n to_o it_o in_o man_n heart_n which_o be_v know_v by_o their_o reflection_n upon_o past_a sin_n with_o pleasure_n and_o the_o prospect_n of_o future_a sin_n with_o desire_n their_o hope_n be_v like_o a_o spider_n web_n that_o can_v bear_v no_o stress_n hope_n be_v subordinate_a to_o faith_n and_o faith_n be_v regulate_v by_o the_o promise_n some_o believe_v without_o hope_n they_o be_v convince_v of_o the_o reality_n of_o the_o future_a state_n of_o the_o eternal_a judgement_n and_o the_o consequent_n of_o it_o but_o be_v careless_a and_o desperate_a in_o their_o wickedness_n other_o hope_v to_o be_v well_o hereafter_o without_o belief_n of_o the_o gospel_n indeed_o there_o be_v none_o can_v bear_v up_o under_o despair_a thought_n when_o they_o be_v rage_v in_o the_o breast_n he_o that_o be_v absolute_o and_o with_o consideration_n hopeless_a fall_v upon_o his_o own_o sword_n the_o tempter_n deal_v with_o sinner_n according_a to_o their_o condition_n if_o they_o be_v swim_v in_o prosperity_n he_o stupefy_v conscience_n and_o induce_v they_o to_o be_v secure_a if_o they_o be_v sink_v in_o deep_a distress_n he_o be_v so_o skilful_a in_o all_o the_o art_n of_o aggravation_n that_o he_o plunge_v they_o into_o despair_n and_o both_o temptation_n be_v fatal_a but_o the_o most_o perish_v by_o fallacious_a hope_n it_o be_v strange_a that_o the_o great_a number_n of_o professor_n be_v more_o unwilling_a to_o suspect_v the_o goodness_n and_o safety_n of_o their_o condition_n than_o to_o mistake_v and_o be_v deceive_v for_o ever_o but_o they_o be_v so_o strong_o allure_v by_o worldly_a object_n that_o though_o in_o their_o life_n there_o be_v the_o visible_a mark_n exclusive_a of_o salvation_n they_o be_v unconcern_v they_o be_v satisfy_v with_o carnal_a vain_a hope_n which_o be_v the_o seed_n of_o all_o evil_n commit_v and_o the_o spring_n of_o all_o evil_n suffer_v hope_v that_o shall_v encourage_v holiness_n embolden_v wickedness_n and_o that_o shall_v lead_v man_n to_o heaven_n precipitate_v they_o into_o hell_n how_o great_a will_v their_o fall_n be_v from_o a_o conceit_a heaven_n into_o a_o real_a hell_n hope_n of_o all_o the_o passion_n be_v the_o most_o calm_a and_o quiet_a but_o when_o utter_o disappoint_v in_o a_o matter_n of_o high_a concernment_n it_o be_v most_o turbulent_a for_o the_o consequent_a passion_n despair_n impatience_n sorrow_n rage_n be_v the_o cruel_a tormentor_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o men._n now_o what_o will_v become_v of_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o hypocrite_n when_o god_n shall_v take_v away_o his_o soul_n he_o may_v feed_v and_o cherish_v it_o while_o he_o live_v but_o in_o the_o fatal_a moment_n when_o he_o die_v his_o blaze_a presumption_n will_v expire_v not_o to_o be_v revive_v for_o ever_o but_o the_o righteous_a have_v hope_n in_o his_o death_n the_o sanctify_a spirit_n inspire_v and_o preserve_v life_n in_o it_o till_o it_o be_v consummate_a in_o that_o blessedness_n that_o exceed_v all_o our_o desire_n and_o exclude_v all_o our_o fear_n for_o ever_o 2._o the_o hope_n of_o glory_n shall_v be_v a_o constant_a and_o command_a motive_n to_o purify_v ourselves_o hope_n be_v the_o great_a spring_n of_o action_n in_o this_o world_n it_o enter_v into_o all_o our_o design_n and_o mix_v with_o all_o our_o endeavour_n the_o husbandman_n plough_v in_o all_o the_o frost_n and_o snow_n to_o which_o he_o be_v expose_v in_o hope_n of_o a_o fruitful_a harvest_n the_o mariner_n sail_v through_o dangerous_a sea_n often_o enrage_v with_o storm_n and_o tempest_n and_o among_o rock_n and_o sand_n for_o a_o hopeful_a venture_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o hope_n of_o heaven_n make_v we_o active_a and_o ardent_a in_o seek_v for_o it_o consider_v we_o have_v infinite_o great_a security_n of_o obtain_v it_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o object_n be_v above_o all_o comparison_n with_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n here_o the_o wise_a and_o most_o diligent_a be_v uncertain_a to_o obtain_v their_o end_n the_o trifle_n which_o they_o earnest_o expect_v and_o be_v certain_a after_o a_o while_n to_o lose_v they_o but_o if_o we_o in_o the_o first_o place_n seek_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v certain_o obtain_v it_o and_o it_o be_v unforfeitable_a for_o ever_o i_o will_v conclude_v with_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o argument_n declare_v by_o the_o apostle_n the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o bring_v salvation_n have_v appear_v unto_o all_o man_n teach_v we_o that_o deny_v ungodliness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n we_o shall_v live_v godly_a righteous_o and_o sober_o in_o this_o present_a world_n look_v for_o that_o bless_a hope_n the_o glorious_a appearance_n of_o the_o great_a god_n and_o our_o saviour_n jesus_n christ._n this_o will_v keep_v we_o steadfast_a and_o unmoveable_a always_o abound_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n 4._o the_o fear_n of_o god_n be_v a_o grace_n of_o excellent_a efficacy_n to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o we_o it_o be_v the_o apostle_n direction_n perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n the_o divine_a wisdom_n have_v annex_v reward_n and_o punishment_n to_o strengthen_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o law_n to_o work_v upon_o hope_n and_o fear_v which_o be_v the_o secret_a spring_n of_o humane_a action_n and_o for_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o justice_n that_o be_v principal_o exercise_v in_o his_o moral_a government_n that_o hope_n may_v be_v a_o powerful_a motive_n to_o do_v our_o duty_n and_o fear_v a_o strong_a bridle_n to_o restrain_v from_o sin_n the_o reward_n must_v exceed_v all_o the_o temptation_n of_o profit_n or_o pleasure_n or_o honour_n that_o can_v accrue_v by_o transgress_v the_o law_n and_o the_o penalty_n of_o all_o the_o evil_n that_o may_v be_v inflict_v for_o obedience_n to_o it_o from_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o divine_a hope_n and_o godly_a fear_n have_v such_o a_o command_a conquer_a power_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o true_a believer_n and_o be_v so_o operative_a in_o their_o life_n that_o they_o will_v not_o neglect_v their_o duty_n to_o avoid_v the_o great_a evil_n nor_o commit_v a_o sin_n to_o obtain_v the_o great_a good_n the_o grace_n of_o fear_n i_o have_v discourse_v of_o in_o another_o place_n and_o shall_v be_v the_o short_a in_o the_o account_n of_o its_o nature_n and_o cleanse_v virtue_n here_o fear_n introduce_v serious_a religion_n preserve_v and_o improve_v it_o it_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o conversion_n to_o god_n and_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o divine_a love_n may_v have_v admission_n into_o it_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o conviction_n of_o gild_n and_o the_o apprehension_n of_o judgement_n that_o follow_v when_o paul_n discourse_v of_o righteousness_n and_o temperance_n and_o judgement_n to_o come_v fellix_fw-la tremble_v the_o prisoner_n with_o the_o assistance_n of_o conscience_n make_v the_o judge_n tremble_v this_o fear_n have_v more_o torment_n than_o reverence_n according_a to_o the_o greatness_n and_o
a_o argument_n of_o excellent_a grace_n there_o be_v many_o who_o virtue_n have_v never_o appear_v so_o bright_a in_o public_a view_n and_o go_v so_o far_o have_v not_o vanity_n attend_v it_o for_o the_o relish_n of_o praise_n they_o will_v do_v praiseworthy_a thing_n their_o goodness_n be_v defective_a in_o the_o principle_n and_o when_o the_o spring_n be_v down_o their_o religion_n be_v at_o a_o end_n their_o work_n appear_v in_o their_o true_a colour_n to_o the_o enlighten_v conscience_n for_o no_o man_n can_v deliberate_o deceive_v himself_o now_o in_o many_o instance_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o world_n be_v opposite_a that_o which_o be_v high_o esteem_v among_o man_n be_v abominable_a in_o god_n sight_n and_o what_o be_v please_v to_o god_n be_v despise_v by_o men._n now_o when_o a_o person_n with_o religious_a constancy_n proceed_v in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n and_o of_o his_o universal_a duty_n though_o he_o be_v expose_v to_o the_o imputation_n of_o folly_n and_o consequent_o the_o scorn_n of_o the_o world_n and_o will_v not_o neglect_v his_o duty_n to_o preserve_v his_o fame_n but_o full_o and_o final_o persevere_fw-la in_o his_o obedience_n to_o god_n he_o be_v a_o confirm_a saint_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a he_o love_v goodness_n for_o its_o own_o sake_n without_o mercenary_a mixture_n and_o despise_v all_o temporal_a respect_n that_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o it_o the_o apostle_n declare_v it_o be_v a_o small_a thing_n with_o i_o to_o be_v judge_v by_o man_n judgement_n his_o ambitious_a labour_n be_v to_o be_v accept_v of_o the_o lord_n who_o favourable_a testimony_n of_o his_o fidelity_n will_v be_v his_o eternal_a honour_n before_o the_o glorious_a and_o immense_a theatre_n of_o angel_n and_o man_n at_o the_o great_a day_n he_o choose_v to_o be_v among_o god_n treasure_n though_o despise_v as_o the_o offscouring_a of_o the_o world_n the_o inward_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v the_o sweet_a friend_n or_o sore_a enemy_n be_v incomparable_o more_o valuable_a and_o to_o be_v prefer_v before_o all_o the_o paint_a air_n the_o vain_a applause_n of_o this_o world_n it_o be_v job_n resolution_n when_o his_o undiscerning_a and_o severe_a friend_n tax_v he_o for_o hypocrisy_n my_o heart_n shall_v not_o reproach_v i_o so_o long_o as_o i_o live_v there_o be_v such_o a_o convince_a evidence_n of_o this_o rule_n to_o judge_v man_n by_o that_o the_o roman_a philosopher_n say_v whoever_o despise_v the_o fame_n and_o reputation_n sen._n of_o a_o good_a man_n to_o preserve_v his_o conscience_n inviolate_a have_v attain_v to_o a_o heroic_a degree_n of_o goodness_n 6._o the_o serious_a constant_a and_o delightful_a performance_n of_o religious_a duty_n in_o secret_a be_v a_o sure_a testimony_n of_o a_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a spirit_n the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n and_o praise_n in_o society_n be_v perform_v many_o time_n from_o custom_n and_o false_a respect_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n and_o be_v fashional_a without_o the_o exercise_n of_o holy_a affection_n the_o life_n of_o those_o duty_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o light_n of_o the_o body_n be_v the_o eye_n if_o thy_o eye_n be_v evil_a thy_o whole_a body_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n without_o purity_n of_o intention_n our_o religion_n though_o varnish_v with_o a_o specious_a appearance_n be_v vain_a but_o the_o exercise_n of_o religion_n conceal_v from_o public_a view_n be_v not_o liable_a to_o the_o temptation_n of_o vanity_n our_o saviour_n command_v we_o to_o pray_v in_o secret_a and_o â—e_v that_o see_v in_o secret_a shall_v reward_v we_o open_o the_o secrecy_n contribute_v to_o the_o free_a exercise_n of_o holy_a affection_n in_o that_o duty_n the_o prophet_n jeremy_n tell_v the_o obstinate_a jew_n if_o 17._o you_o will_v not_o hear_v my_o soul_n shall_v weep_v in_o secret_a place_n for_o your_o pride_n and_o my_o eye_n shall_v weep_v sore_o and_o run_v down_o with_o tear_n because_o the_o lord_n flock_n be_v carry_v away_o into_o captivity_n his_o sorrow_n be_v not_o counterfeit_a or_o shallow_a but_o eye_n and_o heart_n be_v engage_v the_o privacy_n contribute_v to_o the_o measure_n it_o be_v true_a there_o may_v be_v formality_n in_o secret_a duty_n a_o prayer_n may_v be_v repeat_v in_o the_o closet_n without_o reverence_n and_o solemnity_n without_o a_o holy_a heat_n of_o desire_n as_o if_o the_o bodily_a service_n be_v accept_v but_o such_o worship_n instead_o of_o propitiate_a god_n provoke_v his_o displeasure_n heaven_n be_v brass_n to_o all_o cold_a petitioner_n their_o prayer_n can_v pierce_v through_o it_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o secrecy_n be_v a_o counsellor_n and_o incentive_a to_o a_o vicious_a person_n to_o do_v evil_a he_o choose_v the_o silent_a and_o dark_a night_n as_o the_o fit_a season_n when_o he_o be_v secure_v no_o ray_n of_o light_n can_v discover_v what_o be_v do_v he_o be_v effectual_o tempt_v to_o satisfy_v his_o lusts._n on_o the_o contrary_a a_o real_a saint_n choose_v to_o serve_v god_n in_o secret_a for_o than_o he_o glorify_v he_o as_o god_n the_o inspector_n and_o judge_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o privacy_n of_o his_o worship_n be_v to_o conscience_n a_o evidence_n of_o his_o sincerity_n and_o of_o a_o excellent_a degree_n of_o grace_n constancy_n be_v requisite_a in_o the_o performance_n of_o religious_a duty_n in_o secret_a many_o when_o they_o feel_v present_a pain_n or_o fear_v imminent_a danger_n will_v address_v their_o request_n to_o god_n in_o secret_a but_o when_o free_v from_o trouble_n they_o neglect_v their_o duty_n but_o prayer_n be_v a_o duty_n of_o daily_a revolution_n the_o natural_a life_n may_v be_v as_o well_o preserve_v without_o breathe_v as_o the_o spiritual_a without_o prayer_n and_o since_o we_o have_v always_o peculiar_a want_v and_o be_v often_o surprise_v with_o new_a necessity_n which_o be_v not_o fit_a to_o be_v discover_v to_o other_o we_o shall_v esteem_v the_o precept_n to_o be_v our_o privilege_n to_o present_v ourselves_o to_o our_o heavenly_a father_n and_o to_o pour_v forth_o our_o soul_n into_o his_o bosom_n with_o a_o assurance_n of_o his_o gracious_a hear_v our_o request_n some_o by_o the_o constraint_n of_o natural_a conscience_n dare_v not_o omit_v secret_a devotion_n but_o they_o be_v bring_v to_o it_o as_o a_o troublesome_a task_n and_o be_v glad_a when_o it_o be_v do_v these_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o carnal_a nature_n but_o when_o there_o be_v a_o sympathy_n between_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o duty_n and_o the_o sweetness_n of_o paradise_n be_v taste_v in_o communion_n with_o god_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n the_o divine_a nature_n be_v prevalent_a those_o happy_a soul_n be_v in_o heaven_n already_o for_o in_o heaven_n there_o be_v a_o everlasting_a tenor_n of_o serve_v and_o praise_v god_n in_o short_a internal_a religion_n be_v the_o immediate_a and_o unfeigned_a issue_n of_o the_o soul_n who_o praise_n be_v not_o of_o man_n that_o can_v by_o their_o most_o search_a sight_n dive_v into_o the_o heart_n but_o of_o god_n who_o be_v the_o maker_n and_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n brief_o as_o between_o friend_n conversation_n increase_v love_n and_o love_n increase_v conversation_n so_o between_o god_n and_o a_o saint_n communion_n increase_v love_n and_o love_n communion_n 7._o to_o forgive_v injury_n and_o overcome_v evil_a with_o good_a discover_v a_o christian_n to_o be_v divine_o excellent_a love_n be_v the_o bright_a beam_n of_o the_o divine_a beauty_n wherein_o god_n do_v most_o delight_n and_o excel_v the_o return_v good_a for_o evil_n be_v the_o noble_a effect_n of_o love_n wherein_o our_o near_a resemblance_n of_o god_n consist_v we_o have_v the_o example_n of_o it_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n of_o perfection_n in_o our_o suffer_a saviour_n if_o ever_o any_o one_o have_v a_o right_a to_o revenge_n injury_n our_o saviour_n have_v his_o innocence_n be_v entire_a nay_o his_o beneficent_a goodness_n to_o his_o enemy_n be_v infinite_o oblige_v the_o misery_n he_o suffer_v be_v extreme_a a_o death_n equal_o ignominious_a and_o cruel_a the_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n be_v true_o infinite_a yet_o in_o the_o extremity_n of_o his_o suffering_n when_o the_o sense_n of_o injury_n be_v most_o quick_a and_o exasperate_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o their_o scornful_a insulting_n he_o earnest_o pray_v for_o their_o pardon_n father_n forgive_v they_o they_o know_v 23._o not_o what_o they_o do_v he_o may_v have_v call_v upon_o the_o righteous_a judge_n of_o the_o world_n the_o revenger_n of_o oppress_a innocence_n to_o have_v destroy_v they_o by_o fire_n from_o heaven_n but_o he_o address_n his_o request_n by_o that_o title_n that_o be_v most_o endear_n he_o to_o god_n father_n forgive_v they_o it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o thy_o son_n die_v in_o obedience_n to_o thy_o will_n they_o know_v not_o the_o greatness_n of_o their_o
guilt_n now_o the_o more_o we_o be_v conform_v to_o our_o meek_a and_o forgive_a saviour_n the_o more_o we_o approach_v to_o perfection_n and_o the_o more_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n in_o we_o be_v provoke_v and_o fierce_a upon_o revenge_n the_o do_v good_a for_o evil_n be_v the_o more_o sure_a proof_n of_o excellent_a virtue_n and_o clear_a victory_n over_o ourselves_o 8._o the_o more_o receptive_a person_n be_v of_o spiritual_a counsel_n and_o admonition_n for_o the_o prevent_n or_o recovery_n from_o sin_n they_o be_v the_o more_o holy_a it_o be_v david_n desire_n let_v the_o righteous_a smite_v i_o it_o shall_v 5._o be_v a_o kindness_n and_o let_v he_o reprove_v i_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o excellent_a oil_n which_o shall_v not_o break_v my_o head_n there_o be_v no_o counsel_n so_o true_o valuable_a as_o that_o which_o proceed_v from_o wisdom_n and_o love_n in_o matter_n of_o importance_n if_o a_o friend_n discover_v by_o indication_n and_o symptom_n a_o disease_n that_o insensible_o have_v seize_v on_o we_o do_v not_o his_o compassionate_a advice_n endear_v he_o to_o we_o how_o much_o rather_o shall_v we_o meek_o and_o thankful_o receive_v a_o prudent_a and_o seasonable_a reproof_n of_o a_o spiritual_a friend_n for_o the_o heal_a our_o soul_n who_o disease_n be_v far_o more_o dangerous_a and_o less_o discernible_a than_o those_o of_o the_o body_n it_o be_v the_o most_o sacred_a and_o beneficial_a office_n of_o friendship_n and_o like_o the_o compassionate_a love_n of_o the_o angel_n to_o lot_n in_o lead_v he_o out_o of_o sodom_n and_o as_o the_o most_o excellent_a metal_n gold_n be_v most_o pliant_a and_o easy_o wrought_v on_o so_o the_o most_o excellent_a temper_n be_v most_o receptive_a of_o holy_a counsel_n yet_o the_o natural_a man_n be_v very_o averse_a from_o a_o meek_a submission_n to_o reproof_n for_o sin_n a_o vicious_a self-love_n of_o which_o pride_n be_v the_o production_n make_v we_o to_o overvalue_v our_o reputation_n now_o to_o reprove_v imply_v a_o superiority_n which_o occasion_n impatience_n and_o disdain_n though_o the_o duty_n be_v perform_v with_o prudence_n and_o tenderness_n and_o respective_a modesty_n yet_o it_o be_v usual_o very_o unacceptable_a man_n will_v excuse_v and_o extenuate_v and_o sometime_o defend_v their_o sin_n nay_o sometime_o recoil_v with_o indignation_n upon_o a_o faithful_a reprover_n it_o be_v as_o dangerous_a to_o give_v a_o admonition_n to_o some_o proud_a spirit_n as_o it_o be_v to_o take_v a_o thorn_n out_o of_o a_o lion_n foot_n it_o be_v therefore_o evident_a that_o when_o a_o just_a reproof_n be_v receive_v with_o meekness_n and_o acceptance_n there_o be_v a_o great_a love_n of_o holiness_n as_o when_o one_o take_v a_o very_a unpleasant_a medicine_n it_o argue_v a_o earnest_a desire_n of_o health_n he_o be_v a_o excellent_a saint_n that_o when_o conscience_n have_v not_o by_o its_o directive_n office_n prevent_v his_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o a_o sincere_a friend_n endeavour_v to_o restore_v he_o be_v not_o angry_a at_o the_o reproof_n but_o sorry_a he_o deserve_v it_o last_o the_o deliberate_a desire_n of_o death_n that_o we_o may_v arrive_v at_o the_o state_n of_o perfect_a holiness_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o excellent_a grace_n there_o be_v no_o desire_n more_o natural_a and_o strong_a than_o of_o the_o enjoyment_n and_o continuance_n of_o life_n there_o be_v no_o fear_n more_o insuperable_a than_o of_o certain_a and_o inevitable_a death_n those_o who_o do_v not_o fear_v it_o at_o a_o distance_n be_v strike_v with_o terror_n at_o the_o aspect_n and_o approach_n of_o it_o carnal_a man_n who_o heaven_n be_v here_o at_o the_o fearful_a apprehension_n and_o foresight_n of_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o sink_v into_o despair_n nay_o holy_a man_n who_o have_v the_o prospect_n of_o celestial_a happiness_n beyond_o death_n and_o believe_v that_o the_o pang_n of_o death_n be_v throw_n for_o their_o deliverance_n to_o eternal_a life_n be_v apt_a to_o shrink_v at_o the_o thought_n of_o their_o dissolution_n if_o the_o change_n from_o a_o earthly_a to_o a_o heavenly_a state_n be_v not_o by_o our_o be_v unclothe_v but_o to_o be_v clothe_v upon_o with_o glory_n which_o st._n paul_n declare_v to_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o nature_n the_o hope_n of_o see_v christ_n in_o his_o glory_n and_o be_v transform_v into_o his_o likeness_n will_v so_o inflame_v their_o affection_n that_o they_o will_v be_v impatient_a of_o be_v absent_a from_o he_o but_o the_o necessity_n of_o die_v that_o we_o may_v ascend_v into_o his_o revive_a presence_n be_v so_o bitter_a that_o divine_a grace_n be_v requisite_a to_o induce_v we_o to_o consent_v to_o it_o st._n peter_n be_v a_o ardent_a lover_n of_o christ_n and_o appeal_v to_o our_o saviour_n omnisciency_n for_o a_o testimony_n of_o it_o lord_n thou_o that_o know_v all_o thing_n know_v that_o i_o love_v thou_o yet_o our_o saviour_n immediate_o tell_v he_o when_o thou_o shall_v be_v old_a thou_o shall_v stretch_v out_o thy_o hand_n and_o another_o shall_v carry_v thou_o where_o thou_o will_v not_o signify_v his_o death_n the_o circumstance_n when_o thou_o arâ—_n old_a imply_v a_o unwillingness_n to_o die_v when_o the_o natural_a term_n of_o life_n be_v near_o expire_a yet_o peter_n have_v be_v a_o spectator_n of_o our_o saviour_n glorious_a transfiguration_n and_o of_o his_o triumphant_a ascent_n to_o heaven_n from_o mount_n olivet_n the_o best_a of_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o join_v in_o the_o language_n and_o desire_n of_o the_o spouse_n draw_v we_o to_o thy_o bless_a presence_n and_o we_o will_v run_v after_o thou_o so_o strong_a be_v the_o band_n of_o natural_a love_n that_o fasten_v the_o soul_n and_o body_n and_o such_o a_o reluctancy_n there_o be_v against_o a_o dissolution_n but_o st._n paul_n declare_v i_o desire_v to_o be_v dissolve_v and_o to_o be_v with_o christ_n which_o be_v far_o better_a he_o be_v content_v to_o live_v for_o the_o service_n of_o christ_n but_o desirous_a to_o die_v to_o enjoy_v his_o presence_n in_o the_o sanctuary_n of_o life_n above_o this_o be_v his_o fix_a and_o unsatisfy_a desire_n how_o few_o be_v arrive_v to_o such_o a_o height_n of_o spirituality_n this_o desire_n be_v the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o reality_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o eternal_a state_n and_o our_o interest_n in_o it_o according_a as_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o invisible_a kingdom_n be_v in_o our_o mind_n such_o be_v its_o attractive_a power_n in_o our_o heart_n it_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o divine_a love_n in_o a_o degree_n of_o eminence_n to_o vanquish_v the_o terror_n of_o death_n that_o be_v insuperable_a to_o humane_a resolution_n and_o with_o a_o clear_a and_o cheerful_a spirit_n to_o leave_v the_o body_n in_o the_o grave_a that_o we_o may_v for_o ever_o be_v free_v from_o sin_n and_o make_v like_a to_o christ_n in_o purity_n and_o glory_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o love_n strong_a than_o death_n 2._o use_v be_v to_o excite_v we_o to_o follow_v holiness_n to_o make_v it_o the_o great_a design_n study_n and_o endeavour_v of_o our_o life_n to_o grow_v in_o grace_n it_o be_v true_a the_o beginning_n the_o prosecution_n and_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n be_v from_o god_n but_o it_o be_v by_o the_o subordinate_a concurrence_n of_o the_o renew_a mind_n and_o will_n the_o lead_a faculty_n that_o we_o be_v advance_v towards_o perfection_n god_n give_v virtue_n to_o the_o seed_n temper_n to_o the_o season_n and_o form_n to_o the_o fruit_n but_o man_n be_v to_o plant_v and_o water_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o earth_n without_o god_n our_o endeavour_n be_v weak_a and_o ineffectual_a but_o by_o his_o blessing_n be_v successful_a i_o will_v first_o set_v down_o direction_n how_o we_o shall_v follow_v holiness_n second_o answer_v the_o carnal_a allegation_n against_o our_o strive_v after_o perfection_n three_o proceed_v to_o add_v other_o motive_n to_o enforce_v the_o duty_n four_o propound_v the_o mean_n that_o may_v be_v effectual_a for_o this_o excellent_a end_n 1._o we_o must_v in_o our_o early_a age_n follow_v holiness_n man_n common_o deceive_v conscience_n and_o elude_v their_o duty_n by_o delay_n they_o be_v unwilling_a to_o be_v holy_a too_o soon_o and_o in_o a_o excellent_a degree_n they_o presume_v there_o will_v be_v time_n enough_o hereafter_o for_o to_o reform_v themselves_o after_o their_o voluptuous_a affection_n be_v satisfy_v after_o their_o worldly_a acquisition_n they_o will_v forsake_v their_o sin_n and_o become_v holy_a but_o this_o be_v unaccountable_a folly_n rather_o a_o delirium_fw-la than_o discourse_v there_o be_v innumerable_a contradiction_n of_o which_o the_o life_n of_o man_n be_v compound_v they_o complain_v as_o if_o time_n be_v intolerable_o short_a and_o waste_v it_o as_o if_o it_o be_v intolerable_o long_a they_o use_v all_o art_n that_o month_n may_v seem_v as_o hour_n and_o year_n pass_v as_o day_n but_o in_o no_o