dissolved and fall ere one special act of trust and adventure on his hand and under the assured warrant of his truth should be frustrate and that the safe conduct also and security of one Christian in his passage through time is of that consequence and so essential a part of the great frame of providence that this should not be entire and perfect if it should fail as to the meanest of the Saints to make so great a nullity herein 7. And is it not in such a reflex work on the truth of experience that such can only know the sweet enjoiments of times past and what that peculiar comfort of remembrance means which I must reckon one of the rarest and most unknown enjoiments this day under the Sun since it is sure this can never be from the greatest delights of the earth when once passed which as they return no more so does ever leav a bitter sting and remembrance by a native result of the same whilst that which hath been experienced in the way of God can neither perish nor lose its sweetness but will render the most afflicting part of their life past which was most bitter and sore then to be the most comforting part thereof to their remembrance when they can see herein both what they have designed for God and he hath done for them 8. If there be any comfort of love in the Communion of the Saints here within time they may see how this is not attainable but in the light of inward experience whence they know what it is to meet and have fellowship in the same Savour and relish of the things of God when in a spiritual frame and to be mutually disclosed as they can discern something of the excellency of one anothers spirit and of the power and lively workings of inward grace by that native lustre and evidence which thus followes the same so as under the sensible power of such attractions their souls are more closely unite and joined together yea are mutually strenthned by other conflicts and what experiments they have made of divine truth herein as to their releaf And I must say where this is not understood that great mystery of the Communion of the Saints is but a strange and dark notion nor without this can that special design of the Lord in the settlement of Churches in a visible state be either known or answered which is to have external ordinances carried on with life and power amongst men and enjoying communion with our blessed head herein The VII and last INQUIRY I would make as to a more full assurance of understanding on the truth of our profession and for further clearing of this great Subject of the experimental part of Religion is to know the quality of the witnesses thereto which is an Inquiry of a higher concern and import then seems to be apprehended or of what weight and necessity this is upon these grounds 1. Because the whole truth of Spiritual experience is matter of fact and founded on a certainty of sense it is truth in the event and performance and not what God does speak but what according to the same he hath done so that this is not upon any principle of Faith but on mens personal tryall of the same according to that Isai 43 v. 10. ye are my witness says the Lord that ye may know and beleeve me and understand that I am he for tho it is of divine and infallible truth that whatever God hath assured by promise he will do yet the experience hereof since the Canon of the Scripture was sealed is of humane record and a testimony which could bear no weight from the greatest of men if the quality of such witnesses were not tried and considered herein 2. Because the highest pretence to spiritual enjoiments in the way of the promise is but a false testimony where there is no tender regard herewith to the precepts of the Ghospel when this connection is indissoluble Act 9. they walked in the fear of God and comforts of the Holy Ghost doe not my words good to them that walk uprightly Mica 2 7. It is true that choisest Christians may be much hid and in the dark herein to others and upon such an account should have a sad part if they were tryed and judged by men only this is sure there can be no more in the conclusion then is in the premises and that a Christians testimony to the truth lyes more in what they are then what they express to others 3. The quality of the witnesses is of such weight here and to be specially regarded as one of the highest services for God within time under their hand to put too their seall and testimony that God is true in what he hath promised who are as it were judicially sisted in behalf of his truth and faithfulnes since his declarative glory before angels and men does more peculiarly ly here then in the whole Structure and frame of this Creation This is a trust and debt also upon each age of the Church that the truth and faithfulnes of their God may be transmitt to the generations to come with such a confirmatory seall 4. This Inquiry is the more called for to know what these are who bear such a witnes to the truth upon the exceeding greatnes of these things which belong to Christian experience since this might awake the most sublime and inquisitive spirits of the time to search herein and be a Subject of great thoughts and reflection that such are on the earth yea an innumerable part of men who do verily enjoy so marvelous a light as is immediatly out of Heaven and shines upon none else and knowes such an enjoiment as an immediate communion with the Deity and his sensible presence with their Spirits with returns from Heaven to their suits in most reall effects since if this be sure then must men seek for another Idea of Christianity have other thoughts about the same then what most seem to have then is there a higher glory put upon mens souls in the way of grace and their beeing partakers of the divine nature then what all humane grandeur can ever amount to or is upon the Sun and the Stars of Heaven 5. The credit and quality of the Witnesses on this great head of Spiritual experience and the whole internal part of Christianity is of such weight that the spirit of this age and most predominant part of men within the Church is stated in so visible an opposition thereto not only to oppose the power and spirituality of Religion but to deny its principles and give a lye to this testimony of the most eminent workings of the spirit of God on mens souls as if it were some illusion or imposture which is in effect to take of the greatest seall that God hath given to the Divinity of the Scripture in the whole internal demonstrations of its truth this is the great prodigy of this age bejond any
Party and it s a threatning case when the security and interest of a Nation stands more by a permissive Providence and singular longsuffering of God then by promise The discovery of hid Plots and Contrivances against the Government hath been of late in a special manner remarkable but oh there is one Plot which is of ane other nature to be above all fear'd that 's caried on not in the dark but in the publick light to betray these Nations to the Common Adversary it is such a Plot as was betwixt Balak and Balaäm to divide Israël from God that their strength might depart from them when once there is a sad departure from him and it 's sure these who ever are interessed herein hath the most active concurrence to weaken and bring low the Politick Body of Britain to hasten on a dismal night and advance the interest and strength of visible Adversaries But if there be no suitable appearance in this day to counteract so dismal a Plot and the growing strength of such a Conspiracy herein there may be then too just cause for these of the most serious spirit to long to have their part acted and be gone off the stage ere they see the dreadful Effects hereof and what ever advantage be of external means it might be too easy then to judge of future things where an inordinate respect to men and a low regard to keep in with God is one of the publick signs of the time we are in I know it 's no easy thing to improve the Providences of times past that are at any distance from us or to bring them home by a just application to the present day and to compare what we now see of the Way and Workings of God with what hath already past in these late Years but if this were more improven and understood there might be another view and discerning of the times we are in and what of the night now it is we have seen in some singular way the rising and falling of humane interests so contrare to humane reason and expectations as might tend fully to clear from what hand they came and to what Issue they were directed we have seen such Revolutions which the Churches of Britain hath gone thorough and hath past over the same as seem yet little understood and it must be a perverse and false Judgment if it be supposed that we have no more to do herewith but a naked remembrance of such things in the matter of Fact and what was mens way and part therein But that I may come more near on this Subject there are some things that need to be further understood thereon 1. That it 's sure when such a Gape this day is lying open betwixt us and divine Wrath there can be no standing herein without a serious interceeding Work with God by immediate addresses when its unexpressible what a mighty efficacy this hath on the World and the great changes thereof and how far he hath subjected the Interest of Nations to the Prayers of the Saints It is a hopeful sign when Rulers and Magistrates do call and excite a Nation to publick fasting and prayer but in the ordinare way it 's followed this day upon so extraordinare an application to the Majesty of God it may be just matter of fear if such essential requisites be not concurrent therewith 1. That the same Authority and Power be interposed for a serious and impartial Inquiry as to National Sins which are most prevalent in the time where the current of the multitude runs and hath the loudest cry to Heaven since otherwise a solemn address of this kind might bear a sad evidence of Atheism and Impiety to suit National Deliverances and Protection and that the Holy God would be with us and propitious to us for the publick State of the Nation whilst we are not with him yea that he would not forsake us whilst our forsaking him is so visible which is in effect to plead that the most settled unalterable establishments of his truth be made void and rescinded for our sake yea can another return be expected in such a case then what is Ezech. 14 4. 2. That something then upon so extraordinare an address to Heaven might be designed by publick Authority in a promissary way to be made practicable as sould tend to a more visible resolute withstanding the growing strength of such National evils and may thus bear a publick testimony and appearance against them from such who stand under so high a trust unto God for this end 2. Where this great service is taken to heart for standing in the gape this day before God there needs also some clear discerning of the end and design of Providence in these astonishing suâ—cessive changes which hath of late gone over this Generation it 's true there may be many ends at once reached in any signal piece of the Work of Gâ—d about his Church yet is there surely still some higher great end which he hath therein that should be most deeply enquired into and tho I can attain little this way in respect of others yet may with humble confidence say that under a serious pressure of spirit I have sought to understand the same and how to trace the Lines of Providence in the strange Revolutions of this age to the Center of that great Design of the Lord therein to which all these oppositions which hath been made to the same hath so remarkably brought on their own fall and breaking in that way but this I must further in sist on tho there needs specially a turning our eyes first back to times past for discerning the Work of God in our day and to see in what a circuit divine Judgment did go from on part of the Reformed Churches to another with the very first date and entry upon this remarkable age and when that Sword which was bathed in Heaven and had it's commission to Germany and Bohem in that sore and long intestine War there had once done it's work then did it in a successive course enter on the Churches of Britain and Ireland and a câ—p of trembling from the Lord put into there hand and then did begin that great Scene of Providence which hath been since acted there wherein as in all the most remarkable Steps and Periods hereof hath the voice of the Lord been expresly pointing at this great end and design in the same for bringing his counsel more clearly to light if we had eyes to perceive and hearts to understand what is his work and declared intent herein which is that the Kingdoms of this World may become the Kingdoms of our Lord and of his Christ who shall reign for ever and ever Revelat. 11 15 and that his Interest in these Nations as a part of that inheritance which was in a peculiar way given him of the Father Psalm 2 8. be more fully asserted in the Glory of his Regal Power against all such
and immortality in a future state as hath made it there continued and highest exercise to have a further and new strenthning of there faith herein who yet all that time knew not what it was to be shâ—ken or to have any inward fear as to there own personal interest herein but still found the Revelation of the Ghospel so great a thing and there spirits so deeply seased with the wonders of our Religion that whatever did tend to a higher strenthning of their faith herein was also the greatest addition to their joy and in that sence did most understand such a saying nunquam satis magna securitas in re tanti momenti ubi periclitatur aeternitas But in the next place what thoughts I would humbly offer to one of so knowing and judicious a spirit and where so great assistances you may have access to improve otherways â—ssiall be most in a directive way upon a sevenfold inquiry that may be of greatest weight for a Christians laying the ground work of their profession on solid and clear grounds which lyes first here 1. To know that rare and peculiar order that is suitable in a Christians first entry on Religion under a serious weight of the same on their spirits since as in any great studie there is an entrance and a progresse and that it is sure in the whole frame of Christianity there is so entire a correspondence as nothing stands alone by it self but in a line of mutual respect which in that manner runs through the same as ane entry aright upon one step must make way to render a further progresse clear and unavoidable so here I must judge 1. That a Christian should once make it such a proper and solemn business and work by it self to attain a solid founding and settlement of their faith on the truth and to sist his soul in such a manner as if he were then to enter on the Christian profession without respect to example education or influence of any humane authority or whatever any external motives could have weight herein since in a case of that high concern men should in the greatest recess and composure of spirit have some distinct special time such as may be matter after of sweet reflexion to them how they did then prove themselves with respect to so high and discriminating a profession from the residue of the world and did thus with full inward consent join in with the truth purely on its own evidence as though there were none of that profession in the bounds and place they lived in 2. As the naturall order of things should require that the foundation be sure laid ere we begin to build so is it sure that the first entry on serious Religion must be on the Faith of the divine nature and existence and that men have assuredly a God to trust to and to make them happy as Hebr. 11 6. he must first beleeve that he is c. and in the same order John 17. 3. must beleeve him to be the only true God ere he come to beleeve Jesus Christ whom he hath sent O how uncomfortable a thing should humane state be without God and ane absolute dependance on him who might see his life to be rather a curse and torment then blâ—ssing if there were no supernatural help above himself against the eâ—il and miseries of time and to subdue the distempers of the mind and the fears that should thus sease upon him both as to his present and future state but what possible comfort could there be in the light of a Deity or enjoiment of a Godhead if we know not with assurance also the Excellencies of his blessed nature and what a God we have to adventure on 3. Thus by ane unavoidable constraint there must be a further progresse and enquirie upon the certaintie of a revealed rule of correspondence betwixt God and man here both in order to dutie and what we may exspect and hope from him and if it be sure this day that there be ane express and clear revelation of his will herein to be found in the earth that comes with full and infallible evidence to men for here is it not possible to stand or fix until our faith be once settled on the truth of such a divine record when we see in what estate poor mankind were in if such a sure way of commerce were not betwixt the invisible God and this visible world we are in since then we should have no certain and fixed boundaries betwixt good and evil by that unchangeable difference which the holy nature of God hath put herein nor could we ever know that rule of subjection and relation we stand under to him then heaven and earth were shut up from correspondence together by any established rule for the same then should the most excellent and essentiall part of man his immortall soul have no directive or comforting light as to his future state and safe passage thereto whilst the visible creation hath a sun to shine thereon when such is the way to life as by the greatest improvements of nature it can be neither found nor followed then should that rare structure and workmanship oâ— grace here and of glory and blessedness to come be a terra incognita to poor mankind and as man only in this lower creation is capable of moral Goverment and humane lawes which yet can extend no further then their visible work and actions if such a blessed record were not there should be no establishment of laws to the whole inward man no rule of regulation to the heart and this inward world would be subject to no Goverment and tho the ruined state of humane nature may be as discernable as the truth of it's existence yet should we neither know its true original and rise nor any relief for the same we might discern the truth of invisible adversaries and of some great design they have against us as clearly as any object of sense but we could know no security from them by ane invisible guard or the way how to resist such a party then should the work and conduct of providence be wholly unintelligible to us and have our eyes shut on these wonders hereof which exceed the sphere of created nnderstanding if this great luminary of the Scripture did not continually shine thereon which we cannot see and not see also that no way besides this was ever made known to recover poor mankind out of that gulf of bondage and misery he is fallen into and as this glorious light of divine truth hath its proper sphere where it is fixed and shines forth in the Christan Chureh so the whole world beside is a place where horror falshood and impiety does visibly raign 4. But this must lead men of a serious spirit to a further enquiry upon that essential difference which is betwixt the revealed rule of our Religion and any other way that pretends thereto as there is betwixt light
great Revolution in the State of Britain how it was expresly foretold under its proper circumstances many years past and was one of the first passages of any weight that hath been still fixed in my remembrance of a relation I had from ane ancient and eminent Minister of Christ of a Prediction imparted to him by one of an extraordinar and Prophetick Spirit in that time that so great a Scene of Providence should be acted in Britain and change in the publick face of affaires by the coming over of a Prince of Orange who should be the great Instrument and Actor therein and tho some particulars relating thereto I cannot exactly remember yet this in the substance with such ane express designation as I have now mentioned hath from my young years had a settled impression in my memory and as I am sure and perswaded of the truth hereof and that the foresaid Relater had such a Prediction long before there was any allyance betwixt the House of Britain and of Orange yea am sure this did exceed the reach of humane apprehension at that time from any rise or tendency of natural causes in the order and series thereof so is it not now mentioned after the event only but what several years before I gave ane account and relation off to some of great quality who still know the same when there was not the least appearance of such a thing tho I could lay no further weight thereon which seemed so strange and improbable but that the thing in it self as to the truth of such a Prediction was reall 4 That there are supernatural warnings hath been given to men by some special instinct and impression not only of the approach of some great and extraordinar tryall with respect to themselves but of the near approach of their death yea to some the precise time hereof is a truth so known in the World and with that undeniable evidence as might fully convince those of the most doubtful and suspicious Spirit in things of that nature and were it suitable here I might give special instances which I have surely known of this kinde with respect to such who were both pious and of great composure in their judgment who hath had such perswasion fixed on them without the least presage from any natural cause or what in ane ordinary way could give a rise thereto as it did after fall out in the event 5. That there are also extraordinare signs and forewarnings given the World of great Revolutions and Judgments ere they came on particular nations by prodigies and signes from Heaven is of that publick evidence and certainty as would seem not possible to question if some methods of opposition to God both in his Word and Works were not peculiar to this age and the spirit thereof this way bejond any that hath gone before for what may be supposed and misjudged by many on such ane account through ignorance and unacquaintance with natural causes and the extent thereof is not to be questioned but from this will men debate or discredit a truth that all ages must witness and these of the most cautious and discerning amongst men how such solemn forewarnings from Heaven by extraordinar signs and prodigies hath been still previous to publick changes and revolutions and to any great calamities and judgements It s sure these are no imaginary things but are direct for some special end and are sometimes in such a manner visible to the experience of the World as hath not been in like manner known for some ages past as that late Comet 81. yea occurr not according to the settled constitutions of nature but come both with an surprising aspect and are expresly formed and directed of the Lord for some higher end then to be an emptie shew and wonder to the World but when the Word of truth and threatnings thereof ceaseth to warne or be matter of trembling and the Atheistick contempt and derision of the Works of God is in this day at such a height it s like the door may be now judicially shut on any extraordinar presages or warnings this way untill one prodigy of some unusual judgement come that will not be baffled by men Whilst I speak on such a Subject I know there is a strange thing that comes under the notion by many of a miracle tho matter of very ordinare thoughts with others and of a light and common regard about the same which is in that strange and astonishing cure of the Struma or as it s termed the Kings evil by a touch of the hand only without any application of ordinary means that here is no imposture in the truth of such a thing but that many have been undoubtedly healed by this touch of the Kings of England is not questionable which is of so pâ—blick and known evidence in the tryall of numerous instances yea that here is something supernatural and unaccountable to humane understanding on principles of reason when it s one of the most contumacious diseases of mens body that in the ordinare use of means is found the most difficult to cure but since any extraordinar effect should lead men to a deep enquiry and tryall about the cause hereof and have the more weight in such a case that a miraculous work where it is in truth is Gods own seall which he doth rarely give but on some great and important ground where his glory and the interest of his truth is highly concerned yea that its sure where he intends such a miraculous discovery of himself to confirm the faith of his people he gives it with the clearest evidence of his work and a concurrence of such circumstances as may serve conviction on all whose impress and signature it bears to difference the same from any imposture or its beeing a diabolick sign and work and so this calls for a just enquiry and tryall in the present case in these respects 1. To know its true rise and original which I find in the English Chronicles to be dated from the time of Edward the Confessor when Antichristian darkness was then at his greatest height it beeing in the 1042 Year when he began to reign and when that Prediction of the Apostle Thessal 2 2. of a more then ordinary power and working of Satan with signs and lying wonders to promote the Antichristian interest was then taking place and was in that sence only admitt to confirm the Romish Faith by such a strange miracle 2. This Inquiry should be necessar herein whither this pretended miraculous power belong to the Crown only or hath respect to the Quality and Holiness of the persons who weare the same since if it be to the first then tho ane Infidel or Mahumetan were established on the Throne if this gift follow the same it must needs be derived to them also and have such a high Priviledge annexed thereto as the Throne of Israel never had when a David and Solomon sate thereon tho
seased with a deeper sense then others of the high and wonderful consequence of such a Faith as to themselves and what is their personal interest herein on which their souls venture for eternity lyes so as it is not strange that they can not possibly enjoy the comfort of such a Faith under any doubtful suspence this way or have their souls at rest with that manner of assent wherewith most satisfie themselves in this day 3. Yea it is these alone who have another Idea of Religion and the wonders of the Christian Faith settled on their spirit then the residue of men who thus see what great things are before them and shortly to come to pass and how such a Faith is not easily attained but that a continued weight and exercise herein on their spirits become unavoidable And tho Sir to one of such a spirit as I know you are off there needs little be said of this kind yet when I look on the face of this Generation even of the more serious part of men herein it would appear that most were rather in a sleep and dream then awake else were it conceivable how they could find it easie to bear and stand under the weight of such discoveries without almost fainting under the greatness hereof if they be indeed assured of such things as these 1. That within a little time their eyes are to be for ever shut on this earth and in one moment opened on that entry which is into another World and on that hid and marvelous passage which lyes betwixt the earth and the higher Paradise above which is in the thrid Heavens and will then know what it is to see with clear and preceptible evidence ther conduct and convoyance by the blessed Angels and the manner of their ascent through these Aetherial Regions in every step of the same their begun acquaintance and society with these glorious spirits which shall be without fear and consternation as when they were in the body and at last that unconceivable reception by the blessed Trinity now is it possible that men here on the earth can with assurance entertain their souls with such great things as before them and near and yet in an ordinare way converse with the same 2. Is it a light or small thing to live in the Faith of such a Triumph as is reserved to each of the Saints in the issue of their warefare when the God of Peace shall tread Satan under their feet and shall enter them into the overcomers joy with that publick testimonie well done good and faithful servant c. before the whole Church of the redeemed there and then to be called to a peculiar assignment of their room and station in that blessed state answerable to their services and attainments of grace here when they shall see the end of the Lord in his whole conduct and methods of providence about them within time which once seemed incomprehensible to their thoughts 3. Yea what is it to be in the serious exercise of such a Faith that in a short time there shall be a final translation of the whole Church militant from this earth to these higher Regions of glory where no more distance of place and but one Church and Society for ever where our blessed Redeemer shall then rejoice in his whole puchase whom he had bought at so dear a price and presented without spot or blemish unto the Father and where the whole elect from Abell the first of humane race that entred Heaven and the first member of the Church triumphant there to the lâ—st who was called by the Ghospel shall meet once and for ever together 4. And are there such now on the earth who shall ere long see themselves in the same state and classe with the elect Angels who could not in this state of mortality bear the sight or apparition of one of these glorious spirits yea shall enjoy them in the same intimacy of fellowship as these that were redeemed from amongst men and tho with humble sobriety I would offer any thoughts on so high a mystery yet seems it saâ—ely warranted to judge that as each of these blessed spirits is a distinct person from other endued with a most excellent life and understanding tho in some different degree of exaltation as to their office and services so are they ane undoubted part of the Church over which Christ is the supreme Head wherein at that last and great Jubilee even in something of a glorious corporeal frame there may be a likness and conformity to him in whom the fulnesse of the God head dwells bodily and for a more near onenesse and Communion with the Saints made perfect who shall then not only be like but equal to the Angels which otherwise could not be well understood since it is sure their bodies though then spiritual and glorious will be the same in substance that they were here and will not be only spirits 5. And what a wonder of our Faith should it be that ere long this also shall be the object of mens sense the conflagration of this whole earth that earth on which most of the generations of men had settled their Heaven to see it all burnt up before them and herein the final issue of their hopes and projects upon the same whilst nothing to such will then further remain but to enter themselves into everlasting flames 6. Is it a small thing to enjoy such a Faith here on the earth as that reunion which they shall then have with so endeared a part of themselves their body and what a meeting that must be after so dark a parting and separation these very bodies which had been partners with them both in their work and services and in all their sufferings within time which they can now embrace never to part with to partake of the same eternal enjoiments and which will be then no lett to their ascent to meet the Lord in the air 7. Can it possibly be a subject of ordinare thoughts or assent that men now on the earth shall shortly see the glory and state of the last Judgment and of their blessed Head on that Throne of His Majesty yea thus see at once the whole generations of men and these who sometime were the greatest Monarchs here presented then to be judged and to see such a solemn particular and distinct judgment past on each according to their deeds and work within time and in that blessed order wherein the whole Saints and each personally of these having a distinct part herein shall be first acquitt approven and accepted in the face of this great Assembly with the publick testimony of the Judge according to the measure of their service and tryalls for his sake whilst they were in the World and next in the condemnatory part of that Judgment to see the whole fallen Angels who first sinned have the first final sentence past on them as it was thus intimate after the fall
in these later times that age which had it's first entry from the Year 1517. had a higher splendor put thereon then had been known for a thousand Years proceeding the same but when I have thought on the way and conduct of Providence and marvelous discoveries of God herein to this Generation I could not but see something in a most singular way of his appearance before the World to the same as seems but yet little understood tho this may be seen that we have surely lived in an age of wonders 2. I have lookt on such an exercise to discern and understand aright the times we are in as one of the most singular means for strenthning a Christians Faith on the certainty of sacred truth when with these more immediate discoveries of God in the way and administration of grace by his spirit on mens soull which is whelly hid from the World they can see in what manner his truth does visibly take place and is attested by an external seall in the glory of his work before men and I am perswaded none thus did ever persue a more near acquaintance with God but hath had some peculiar strengthning remarks of his way that have been hid from others tho of a serious spirit otherwise 3. It is such who have some greater weight of this choise study and their spirits more fully join'd in therewith then others who may attain more clear discoveries of light for directing them to the duties and work of such a time and on this account I fear that there is much yet this day in the dark to us and not understood what hath been the Voice of the Lord for answering the great ends of his Providence tho it hath been clear and distinct where mens spirits were laid open to entertain the same I confess it is not strange as to the greatest part of men this day tho they keep at the furthest distance from what might bring near an affecting sense of a Godhead to their soull in the ways of Providence who are resolute not to see or be perswaded of what doeth torment them hereby whose great study is to live without God in the World and seem emulous of these who can be most ingenious and expert to confirm their hearts against all that is sacred 4. But I am sure it is something much higher then any interest of men or of Nations or the greatest changes in the posture of humane affairs which should bear the greatest weight in this exercise to understand the times we are in and for a suitable observation thereof if men could once reckon that their great business in the earth lyes with God and in keeping sight of him in the outgoings of his Providence since the hidden wisdom of God in a Mystery is to be seen and sought out in his Works as well as in his Word it 's true publick Revolutions and the fall and setting up of great men are things highly observable and momentous but they are neither seen or understood when they make not way for some greater sight of the Majesty of God and the signal retaliations of Judgement herein what peculiar aspects such strange Revolutions of Providence hath on the present Generation II. Though it might seem unsuitable to offer any special Remarkes and Observations upon this late time to one of so discerning a spirit of things of that nature yet knowing how a mutual communication of light about the Work of God and his actings in our day is so incumbent a duty I shall point at a few things wherein I have desired to admire and observe the way of Providence in this remarkable age but in the first place more generally touch such a Head ere I speak in some particular way thereto 1. When we see the series of these times and different measures of tryall and service assigned thereto since that blessed rise and recovery of the Church from Antichristian darkness there might be seen also a growing increase of light which in this age hath had such ane advance as it could not but be expected that the Lord was to take some higher proofs of the improvements thereof from this Generation then of these past after such great things he had done for a full settlement of the Reformed Churches when he had opened the graves of his people and sent forth his Prisoners by the blood of the Covenant the trâ—â—h had made way for its self over mounâ—ains which once seem'd insuperable yea when this also is an age where in a great concurrence of the Prayers of the Saints in times before was â—o meet for â—he Churches interest so that unanswerableness to the expectation of God herein and to frustrate such eminent methods of grace might expect some unusual work of Judgment to follow thereon and the Lords coming at last to a judicial proces and procedure 2. We see how these extraordinar occurrences of this time past hath most remarkably had a joint respect both to Sacred and Civil Interests quoad Fata Ecclesiae Imperii humani so as in that sence it might be said there hath been a shaking both of Heaven and Earth as to the Churches visible State yea such hath these great changes from the right hand of the most high been within the measure of one age as men could not possibly see with the eye of reason without amasement tho it brings therewith one of the most dismal remarks of the present time if mens spirits be not seised with a deep and awful sense of the tremendous Majesty of God herein and know there is no stability of humane state this day in the earth but from him alone who can bring judgement on the greatest Nations or Persons above the common course of nature and influence of second causes but oh what intertainment should a diâ—pensation of Miracles find from the spirits of men now when the Revelation of Christ and Redemption by his Blood from Eternal Wrath hath no greater effects on this Generation and so few awak'd with the Glory of such a light 3. When I have considered this age as that which might have been judged a time of great expectation for a further advance of the Kingdom of Christ in the World which does specially make a time more remarkable yet how little access hath been herein to see the Work of God in any new planting of Churches or inbrirging of Nations to the Profession of the Ghospel as hath been formerly but instead of new Conquest rather a losing ground and is a difficult part become to maintain a defensive work in behalf of the truth and which may be a serious remark that in this age one tribe hath as it were been cut off from the Reformed Churches I mean as to that dismal State of Bohem where some time before had been so eminent and flourishing a plantation it is true there hath been a solemn tide of the effusion of the Spirit of God allotted to someof the Churches
justly feared of an inordinate respect to men and concurrence of visible means above what it can bear when nothing is more effectual to cause the greatest humane succor miscarry and sink under this weight theÌ„ relyances thereon as if they could stand by them self without keeping in with God alone with that God who is of infinite Power both to hurt help whose presence is ever the highest Security of a Nation tho the whole World were against them 2. But this also looks with confidence hope that the Lord is near to give some extraordinar demonstration of himself by Providences as this Generation shall not get their eyes shut at yea that this strange piece of his work is a prelude and entry on a revolution of the publick State of the World that shall be of a higher extent then may be apprehended by most and it 's sure when he does begin he will also make an end 3. I have lookt on this remarkable silence and suspence as to any publick Decision of Providence this Year past when things seemed to be in the highest 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of a Crisis that hereby the Lord would yet give men time to consider his Work and take to heart his Voice by such a further warning and have still observed from the records of times past as to his Procedure that when he was to bring forth some great piece of his Work before the World there hath been as it were an interval of silence for a time like some Cessation of Providence which hath preceeded the same and made the time of his Working when it was lest mens Expectation yea the sorer a stroak hath been when it came the longer hath a tender forbearance gone before even when the hand of Justice hath been lift up the wheels sometimes stand still and the publick state of affairs is in a strange manner becalm'd when the Lord is in some eminent manner to arise according to that Isay 42 14. I have long time holden my peace I have been still I have refrained my self now will I cry as a travelling Woman c. 4. Yea it may be a special remark that when the Lord hath so signally appeared to make this great revolution in Britain effectuall and to clear the sky and coast there from visible opposition with such rare preventing Providences for that end yet is so little ground gained by the unite strength of this Confederacy but it was in the one that the Lord did act in an extraordinar way of Providence in the other things doe run more in the ordinare channel of visilbe means It looks as a sign of great Wrath that such an Instrument of Judgment hath had his chain so far let forth in this day who might be called not only Host is Ecclesiae sed humani Generis by these cruelties more then inhumane exerced in the Palatinate and other Parts of Germany but it 's fitt the World should know of what spirit and way the great Persecutor of the Protestants in this age is yea for the Nations about to see there is no possible Moral Security for their Civil Interests from one whom no establishments of Laws nor that Law of Gratitude towards such whose Fathers had brought the House of Bourbon to the Throne could bind but as there is an anointing and establishing men for judgment whose hand is made strong untill that work be perfited so is the Sin of Britain and other Reformed Churches the greatest strength of this Adversary 12. Have we not also been called to see such vicissitudes of Providence that these for whom God had sometimes most signally appeared in raising them to the highest greatness and power as all might clearly discern it was his hand alone that did the same how in a way no lâ—ss wonderful he hath made knowen his power in breaking and bringing them low whilst they did not know and regard God in the day of their greatness but thought to stand by themselves and gave such a requital to him as to betake themselves to another strength then that which raised them and try a new Scene of opposition to his truth and interest yea thus forgot the tempest they were once in and these engagements which were then on their soul when they had once got to the Haven It is sure this hath been writ forth as in Capital Letters once and again that men who run might read the same and know how great and terrible a party God is when he is not for a Church or People but against them and how easie it is for him by ane occurrent of Providence least feared or thought off to give a check to the greatest deeps of humane Policy and Wit and let such know when they judge themselves secure from any hazard on the earth there can be no standing when their counsels and confidence is derided from Heaven 13. It hath been in some singulare manner also that in this age we have been called to see sin and judgment meet other with such astonishing circumstances and so visible a resemblance and proportion betwixt the same as the stroke herein pointing as with a finger at the cause was unavoidable for a natural conscience to discern and see a just and Holy God thus made known and visible in such publick and tremendous instances of his Judgment as bejond the rate of former times have been set up as beacons in our sight I must join herewith this sad remark which hath had a peculiar respect to these times that as it 's sure nothing but Religion in the truth thereof can effectually take off men from sin so hath nothing so much as Religion been oft made use off as the grand Engine to secure them therein and what was spoke by one of the Ancients hath been more applicable to our day then almost any past that never was ane age more fertile of Religions under a different profession hereof and never more barren of Religion in the power and efficacy of the same on mens soul 14. It hath been in this age that such a call often and alowd hath sounded in our ears to come and see how the greatest Powers and Nations of the earth are but as a little dust in the ballance for the Soveraigne God to blow off at his pleasure and that he hath reserved to himself a dominion and preeminence over the Kingdoms of the Children of men to change the greatest Monarchies Oh what a strange reflex work might this be to have our spirits but going back on these great and marvelous shakings and utter razing hath been of publick settlements that seemd most firmly laid the bowing down and fall of the greatest of men and raising up such who had bâ—en low when the great God once begun to contend with the Oaks and Cedars and herewith to see the extent of his power over mens spirits and inclinations as well as their actings so as to determine their concurrence with their hand
for his ends contrare to the native byass and sway of their hearts that men might know him who is the God of the spirits of all flesh can by one and the same Providence accomplish various designs at once and bring forth such contrare effects as no humane wisdome could ever have supposed or forseen yea how these marvelous events might be clearly seen was in their day no rare and strange contingencies to astonish men but such as did bear a most evident signature and impress of the Majesty of God and of his name and truth shewed forth thereon 15. I shall but add this more upon so boundless a Subject that we have been specially called in this age to see some unusual variation in the spotless ways and methods of Providence about his Church and in the cours of humane affairs from what hath been the manner of his working formerly so as men could not discern his way oft by any footsteps or precedent of Providence in times past but that something hath been reserved peculiarly to our day of the Lord rising up as in mount Peradsim and his being wroth as in the valley of Gibeon to do his strange work and bring to pass his strange Act Isay 28 21. And tho we but see in part hereof yet may we now know and understand upon these times past more then such who was then present actors on the stage could reach in discerning the intents of providence when things were in their first mould as is now clear in their after tendency and result nor could possibly have that judgment of the Work of God in some parcels as may be now attained when it 's in a more full and entire frame when such a sight is sett before us as should call to have our souls bowing down with an awful regard and homage at so august and immediate a discovery of the Majesty of God in his Work and actings before this Generation A III. Head on this Subject that I would offer some thoughts on is as to the Lords singular way of dealing with the publick State of Britain and Ireland bejond any other of the Reformed Churches in this last age and is indeed a Subject of serious regard to consider what manner of time hath our lot been cast in and the measure of that talent for observation we stand accountable for upon such great and extraordinare events as hath occurred but here I have desired to have my thoughts translate to what hath been from the first entry on so marvelous a series of providence about the state of these Nations for almost fifty Years past for a more clear prospect how each step herein in its successive place and room hath tended to give light to another which I shall restrict wholly to the more immediate appearances of God from what hath been mens part and actings upon such a diversity of interests as might too visibly be seen to influence many in their way and offer but a few serious reflections on the same to one who can more clearly observe and discern things of that kind 1. That it 's sure Britain and Ireland hath been of late a Theater of such strange and extraordinare vicissitudes in it's publick state from the Year 38. of this age as in no times past can be resembled what wonderful Revoluâ—ions did then successively follow other and were made the object of mens sense as could not possibly have had credit or been a matter of Faith if the same should have been foretold and may justly render such a period of time unto this day to be matter of astonishment to any of a serious spirit It is true there is no time wherein the Lord hath not given some more singular discoveries of himself and these changes of providence which are in the personal case of Christians and lyes more close and near to their Sense then things of a publick concern are oft so extraordinare as would be not easy for others to credit but it must be said what we have seen here and may know of the work and appearances of God in that Land can never be a Subject of ordinary thoughts 2. It is known how ane avenging Sword which was bathed in Heaven had it's commission thence to go forth against both Britain and Ireland and did not cease to persue it's end until these flourishing Nations was made a visible field of blood yea did not rest until in the righteous and Soveraign disposal of God a potent and settled Monarchy there of a long descent having no fear or opposition from any forren power was yet broke and made void and did fall in their high places and what ane account this should have been to the World if it could have been possibly seen or judged in the Year 40. what the 50 Year following was to bring forth and was then in the bosome of so short a time 3. But when thus the Lord did once appear and go forth in a judiciary way we might see how each of these three Nations had their proper share and measure allotted in the strokes and judgments of that time tho in some different method and manner there beeing a more singular part assigned to poor Ireland then by the Holy and just God in that bloody and terrible Scene which was acted there yet this was in common to the whole of these Lands that it was an intestine Sword and not of a forreiner that was then call'd for which spoke the Judgment to be the sorer and more of divine wrath in it where on part of a Nation is made the rod and executioner of his judgment on another and their destruction from amongst themselves 4. If it be considered what manner of time that was of so extraordinare things it may be obvious how this followed a long and unusal settled calm and tranquillity which had gone before in the publick State of these Nations when so great a flame had been round about it was immediatly after a bloody Sword had done its work in Germany which from the Year 30. had brought with it such dismal effects there but what would seem most astonishing here that tho a time of the patience and long suffering of God had in a singular manner gone before the treaty of the Ghospel might be seen to have a small acceptance and such judicial effects with most of that Generation when the Red Horse and its Rider went forth to take peace from such a part of the earth yet was not the hight of Profanity and Atheism nor measure of sin then in these Nations come near to such a degree as is now the measure of this time or had any such prodigious appearance only we see not yet what is coming to answer this 5. It is not above 40 Years past since we might see a powerful state commonwealth both raised and formed in these Nations on so great a ruine had gone before and thus such a new and wonderful Scene of
Providence brought forth on the stage which made a Revolution in the civil state of that nature as Britain had never before known a State whose strength whilst it stood firm was made formidable both by Sea and Land to the Nations about with so strong a tide of success as nothing was able to stand against the same but all essays which tended to an opposition then most visibly frustrate and no plots or mine laid so deep and closs which did not spring upon themselves who wrought therein such was the concurrence of favourable things and in so strange a manner until they had stood oâ—t that tryal wherein they were then sett how they should answer the call and intent of such a Providence 6. But when the eyes of most every where was aloft as to the issue of this settlement and all humane contrivance or forecast put to a stand herein on what side the ballance might cast amidst such different Parties and interests as was on foot it was then as with ane amasing earth quake that the whole foundation was razed and tho it was unquestionable that many of a serious spirit and design in the things of God was amongst such yet whilst the date of their commission was once expired and keeped not themselves in the way of mercy they are at last brought to know what it was to have God against them a God impartially hating sin before whom it is more highly aggravate and provockting the higher Profession of his way and truth men stands under yea then was it that it migâ—t be no less clearly seen how in tâ—e same manner of â—heir raising by a most visible series and irresistable course of Providence so was there fall and down casting made wonderful there Councils disordered dispirited in their resolutions wherein the ebb did run as low in impressions of fear and despondency on their spirits as it had once lowed who sometimes before they knew what it was to be acted above their own ordinare reach and thus as in a moment might it be seen how this frame and mould was broke as without hand This was the second overturning in the publick State of Britain in a very short time after the former answerable to that Ezek. 21 27. I will overturn overturn c. 7. It is now that a great and marvelous change we may see again go over these Nations an other piece of the Work of God brought forth on the stage and new Actors made use of herein which caused great thoughts of heart to know what aspect such a crisis might have on the publick State of Religion then was the Regal Power and Government in Britain raised again to its highest splendor and extent and this change in such a manner accomplisht as the most judicious and discerning spirits stood amased to see over what oppositions and difficulties which seemed insuperable this was carried and that surely it was the same hand who threw them down which did then lift them up with whom it is easie to make a way where there is none for any peece of his Work when he goeth forth herein 8. But when it might have been hoped and expected such extraordinare providences should work on these who were most interessed in this great Restauration when it was not there Sword or Counsel but the finger of God which wrought the same and that surely this might put a more then ordinare weight how to restore the Nations unto God who had restored them to the supreame Power and Government over the same loe then was it in the Room hereof that these things might be seen 1. How the Sluces were immediately let open for an impetuous flood and deluge of wickednesse to break in over the whole Isle ane unbridled licence to all immoralities and impiety and no restraint but what might tend to promote the Kingdom of Jesus Christ amongst men so as these Years past since the 60. hath tended to lay a lod of guilt on Britain bejond the measures of any times past and is still lying upon the same which will be found sore and heavy in the issue if Soveraign Grace do not wonderfully interpose 2. As it was then that such a crisis had so dismal and mortal an aspect there within these hights of Profanity vvhich did go over all banks bejond ane ordinare cure or relief so there might be seen a new way and unusual methods of sinning and a new progress and advance in Atheism bejond what hath been known in any times past yea this with such confidence in the publick light and before the sun as might be an amasement even to the infernal spirits to think how far they were out gone by such who were of humane race this way 3. But it was herewith also when it might have been thought that God should stay his hand no longer or forbear that the seall of their commission whose power had then the greatest influence might be discernable to all that they were assuredly established for judgment and had such a judicial work under their hand so as the most destructive designs of that party for a further Ruine to the Church seemed still then to have the greatest success and no attempts or oppositions whatsoever could withstand the same or stop it's course until their measure and the Epha was further filled up but such who did most hasten to brake prison as it were before the time found their bondage grew stronger hereby 9. But whilst such was thus at work and acting so dismal a part on the publick Theater of Britain lest they should reckon that surely God had forsaken the earth and that the Cry of such prodigious wickedness was not so loud as to go up to Heaven then was it that he came down in a visible way to make himself known and bring near his judgment with a very tremendous voiee then was it that he gave a special commission to one of the three great Judgments the devouring Pestilence to go to the most eminent and conspicous part of Britain and the publick Seat of the Regal Power and Authority and make that great City desolate for a time and make their dwellings void of Inhabitants in the Year 65. yea in ane extraordinare Conjunction did double such a warning by putting them in a flame that it might speak as a publick Herauld to these Nations and thus give a Second Cry that when his Wrath was begun to kindle a little men might meet him in the way of his Judgment ere it come to the utmost and a greater wo follow thereon This surely was the voice of God by a most stupendous dispensation and does speak still to this day tho there may be few now to hear it This was a Entry of Judgment and stroke of that kind on which the Lord did put a most discernable impress of his Greatness and Terror 10. Yet even then after this there was a most observable Pause and tender forbearance in
things of God which is alone sacred to him what concerns the publick rights and freedome of the spiritual Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ as a visible politick body with the highest respect to his Royal Authority who is the alone Head and Lawgiver thereto It is known that he hath given ane express Charter for the same to his Church under the New Testament according to which the due limits and bounds of that spiritual Jurisdiction which he hath settled there and the full extent hereof sould be both keep'd clear and closely adhered to as ane Interest of the Lord Jesus which is as the apple of his eye he hath join'd also these two great Interests of the Civil and Ecclesiastick Power in so entire a harmony that tho they are to be ever keep'd distinct yet are not to be divided from other but to move jointly in such a blessed and desirable Union as may most serve the great ends of the Kingdome of Christ and the publick good of humane Society and now when this great promise of Christs entring in a more conspicious manner on the Glory of his Reign is come to the birth and begun to bring forth which is that period where to it may be said hath been reserved the perfections of ihe Churches visible state here on the earth how highly desirable should it be to be found assistant thereto in such a day but oh is it possible that these who have such raised hopes of an eternal Crown and Kingdome in Heaven can have so low desires or designs how to be serviceable to the Kingdome of Christ here in the earth yea when none can want an interest and room in this service where it hath once a weight and value on their heart but yet it may be a matter of hope this day that these who by so singular an appearance of God hath now the Soveraign Power and Authority in these Nations are no less eminently fitted to appear for him herein then they are stated under the highest engagements for such ane end 3. It is surely one of the things of God and an interest which is purely sacred to him wherein the spreading of his Kingdome in the World is most nearly concerned which lyes in a serious and faithful Ministry to the Church and is of that concern as it may be justly called Indicium stantis cadentis Ecclesiae for this is one of the highest Ordinances of Christ given to the Church and that way which he hath himself consecrated for the inbringing and perfeiting of the Elect by which so great effects are wrought in the World where ever there is a divine mission for the same to any part thereof the Church is in a building up there ane Ordinance by which most visible efficacy supernatural influences are conveyed in a moral way under the blessing of that iustitution but on the other hand nothing is more threatning to a Nation as to the falling down of some dismal night of judgement then the corruption and debaesing of that which in it's own nature is so excellent where things that are more extrinsick and of a humane concern are so much looked after but that which is Gods part in the great intent of this erection is of so low regard that if ane Inquiry were made through a great part of Britain they should find the dark places of the earth there stil amidst so bright a day of the Ghospel as is now shining what a multitude is thus perishing thorow want of knowledge whilst it seems so â—itle desired or designed to have such a Ministry whose highest study should be upon the great Intent of Christianity to bring men to Christ not to themselves and to allure and perswade their coming under his blest dominion and yoake to press internal renovation of the heart and a necessity hereof with that seriousnes as might take hold on their conscience and let them see there can be nothing more highly irrational then to sist in ane exterior profession and form of Religion and not prove once upon their own tryall the truth hereof in its power and efficacy and whither it hath not a vital part which lyes in ane inward life of Communion with God for as this alone is such a Ministry that should be the blessing of a Nation and Kingdom so in respect of this to be of such a distinguishing Profession tho in its self most agreable to the truth should be of no regard where this is wanting as a test for so sacred ane Office It is I hope unquestionable that the trust of the souls of men is greater then any temporal concerns of a Kingdom or State and how this Ordinance is that which hath the most peculiar influence to prepare the way of the Lord in this day for that blessed and near approaching time of his more conspicous Reign on the earth in the Glory thereof I abstract here from any thing controversal as things are stated in the present day only as to what I hope there may be ane unite agreement in by all who have a deep sence on their spirits of the blood and perishing of immortal souls this way and a serious respect to that Catholick Interest of the Kingdom of Christ amongst men I know it was never a harder part then in this age to stemm such a tide as seems yet on the growing hand of prejudice against the way of truth when so many are in the dark tearing one another and counting it desirable to have where at they may offend and stumble whilst that study is not more followed to prevent so far as is possible mens taking of offence even where it is not given according that of the Apostle who is offended and I burn not the excess of disputing in this age hath been a peece of our judgement and the managing thereof so little to that end of edification but the defect may be no less evident on the other hand for the suitable improvements of Christian prudence as a duty and service to God so absolutely necessar for the regulating of duties according to the circumstances of the Churches case and what the present day can bear without coolness or indifference in any concern of truth which is that part of our Religion that hath been too little improven We are indeed blessed with an unchangeable rule of Sacred Truth which hath no dependence on humane Counsels or Power to change or alter the same or on the mutable revolutions of time and can never vary from its self yet is the tenderness and wisdom of divine Condescendence in the application thereof to be so far regarded as on of the most weighty parts of Religion lyes therein how present duties may be with a judicious discretion directed to that great end of edification since that which may be necessare in one case as it is cloathed with other circumstances may be hurtful and destructive This is one of the most difficult