and_o of_o different_a degree_n of_o goodness_n the_o vine_n the_o figtree_n the_o appletree_n if_o a_o appletree_n produce_v the_o best_a fruit_n in_o its_o kind_n though_o not_o equal_a to_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o vine_n it_o be_v perfect_o good_a thus_o in_o the_o world_n there_o be_v several_a condition_n of_o life_n among_o man_n some_o be_v in_o place_n of_o dignity_n and_o superiority_n other_o of_o subjection_n and_o service_n a_o servant_n that_o be_v faithful_a and_o diligent_a adorn_v the_o gospel_n and_o excel_v in_o that_o relation_n and_o be_v equal_o accept_v of_o god_n as_o other_o in_o a_o high_a order_n he_o that_o gain_v two_o talent_n be_v esteem_v as_o faithful_a as_o he_o that_o gain_v five_o because_o the_o profit_n result_v from_o the_o improvement_n be_v in_o proportion_n to_o the_o stock_n entrust_v with_o he_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n relative_n to_o the_o various_a spiritual_a state_n of_o christian_n here_o st._n john_n address_v his_o counsel_n to_o christian_n under_o several_a title_n to_o child_n to_o young_a man_n and_o father_n with_o respect_n to_o their_o different_a age_n in_o christianity_n a_o child_n be_v perfect_a in_o the_o quality_n of_o a_o child_n when_o he_o have_v the_o stature_n the_o strength_n the_o understanding_n that_o be_v become_v his_o age_n though_o he_o be_v distant_a from_o that_o complete_a state_n to_o which_o he_o will_v arrive_v in_o his_o mature_a age._n a_o young_a man_n have_v the_o perfection_n proper_a to_o his_o age._n a_o new_a convert_n that_o have_v such_o degree_n of_o knowledge_n and_o holiness_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o the_o mean_n and_o his_o time_n of_o advancement_n by_o they_o be_v esteem_v complete_a in_o that_o state_n of_o grace_n some_o be_v enter_v into_o the_o school_n of_o heaven_n and_o be_v in_o the_o first_o lesson_n of_o christianity_n other_o have_v make_v a_o high_a progress_n in_o it_o to_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o stature_n beyond_o the_o perfection_n attainable_a here_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n in_o the_o extent_n of_o its_o part_n and_o intention_n of_o degree_n it_o be_v our_o present_a duty_n to_o aspire_v and_o endeavour_v after_o this_o but_o attain_v only_o in_o heaven_n where_o every_o saint_n be_v renew_v into_o the_o perfect_a image_n of_o god_n and_o make_v glorious_a in_o holiness_n the_o great_a end_n of_o our_o saviour_n love_n in_o die_v for_o we_o by_o gradation_n christian_n ascend_v to_o that_o consummate_v state_n the_o period_n of_o perfection_n chap._n vi_o particular_a grace_n consider_v the_o internal_a principle_n of_o perfection_n divine_a faith_n doctrinal_a justify_v and_o in_o the_o disposal_n of_o providence_n doctrinal_a faith_n be_v not_o imagination_n nor_o reason_n the_o object_n of_o it_o the_o motive_n consider_v the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n faith_n a_o divine_a revelation_n be_v the_o most_o reasonable_a act_n of_o the_o humane_a mind_n god_n truth_n a_o principle_n immediate_o evident_a his_o jurisdiction_n reach_v to_o man_n understanding_n god_n never_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o supernatural_a truth_n but_o he_o afford_v sufficient_a conviction_n that_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o he_o god_n reveal_v himself_o in_o scripture_n by_o humane_a expression_n according_a to_o our_o capacity_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o believe_v supernatural_a doctrine_n no_o far_o than_o they_o be_v reveal_v to_o attempt_v the_o comprehensive_a knowledge_n of_o they_o be_v perfect_o vain_a it_o be_v impossible_a impertinent_a and_o dangerous_a curiosity_n often_o fatal_a to_o faith_n a_o answer_n to_o objection_n that_o supernatural_a doctrine_n be_v not_o reconcileable_a to_o reason_n that_o when_o man_n use_v all_o mean_n sincere_o to_o know_v the_o truth_n of_o they_o and_o be_v not_o convince_v of_o it_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o involuntary_a speculative_a error_n i_o will_v now_o particular_o consider_v those_o grace_n that_o be_v of_o a_o more_o excellent_a nature_n and_o have_v a_o more_o powerful_a causality_n and_o influence_n in_o the_o life_n of_o christian_n faith_n and_o love_n hope_v and_o fear_v be_v the_o internal_a principle_n of_o christian_a perfection_n i_o will_v first_o discourse_n of_o divine_a faith_n the_o first_o principle_n and_o foundation_n of_o religion_n 11._o as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o he_o be_v and_o the_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o diligent_o seek_v he_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o be_v and_o bounty_n be_v the_o motive_n of_o holy_a worship_n this_o grace_n be_v most_o honourable_a to_o god_n and_o beneficial_a to_o we_o the_o understanding_n be_v our_o supreme_a faculty_n and_o by_o submit_v it_o to_o divine_a revelation_n we_o pay_v the_o most_o humble_a homage_n to_o he_o by_o faith_n we_o conceive_v of_o god_n become_v his_o divine_a perfection_n in_o believe_v the_o revelation_n he_o have_v make_v of_o his_o nature_n which_o be_v as_o incomprehensible_a as_o it_o be_v invisible_a and_o the_o declaration_n of_o his_o will_n though_o the_o thing_n promise_v be_v encompass_v with_o opposition_n and_o seem_a impossibility_n we_o glorify_v his_o perfect_a veracity_n and_o omnipotence_n in_o the_o high_a manner_n he_o that_o believe_v the_o divine_a testimony_n set_v his_o seal_n that_o god_n be_v true_a ratify_v his_o word_n in_o the_o most_o solemn_a manner_n faith_n be_v most_o beneficial_a to_o we_o it_o be_v the_o root_n of_o the_o spiritual_a life_n from_o whence_o all_o other_o grace_n derive_v their_o flourish_a and_o fruitfulness_n it_o be_v not_o only_o productive_a of_o its_o own_o act_n but_o excite_v and_o animate_v every_o grace_n in_o its_o distinct_a exercise_n like_o the_o animal_n spirit_n that_o give_v motion_n and_o vigour_n to_o all_o the_o sense_n faith_n in_o christ_n convey_v to_o a_o weak_a christain_n a_o kind_n of_o omnipotence_n the_o apostle_n declare_v i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n 11._o through_o christ_n that_o strengthen_v i_o the_o most_o eminent_a effect_n of_o other_o grace_n either_o active_a or_o suffer_a fortitude_n zeal_n self-denial_n patience_n be_v attribute_v to_o faith_n as_o the_o honour_n of_o a_o victory_n be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o general_n by_o who_o conduct_n and_o courage_n the_o battle_n be_v manage_v though_o it_o be_v obtain_v by_o the_o valour_n of_o the_o soldier_n by_o faith_n we_o be_v justify_v from_o the_o guilt_n 1._o of_o our_o many_o and_o mighty_a sin_n we_o be_v 15._o purify_v from_o their_o deep_a pollution_n we_o be_v adopt_v into_o the_o line_n of_o heaven_n and_o be_v save_v from_o misery_n extreme_a and_o eternal_a i_o will_v consider_v divine_a faith_n under_o three_o head_n 1._o doctrinal_a faith_n 2._o justify_v faith_n 3._o faith_n in_o the_o disposal_n of_o all_o thing_n by_o the_o roll_a providence_n of_o god_n doctrinal_a faith_n i_o will_v consider_v 1._o in_o its_o nature_n 2._o the_o object_n of_o it_o 3._o the_o motive_n 4._o the_o efficacy_n 1._o the_o nature_n of_o it_o all_o the_o notion_n of_o faith_n agree_v in_o this_o it_o be_v a_o dependence_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o another_o thus_o trust_n be_v call_v faith_n because_o it_o rely_v upon_o the_o truth_n of_o a_o promise_n and_o one_o be_v say_v to_o keep_v his_o faith_n inviolate_a when_o he_o perform_v the_o promise_n that_o another_o rely_v on_o faith_n in_o the_o propriety_n of_o expression_n be_v a_o assent_n for_o the_o veracity_n of_o the_o speaker_n according_o divine_v faith_n be_v a_o firm_a assent_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o thing_n upon_o the_o authority_n of_o divine_a revelation_n it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o imagination_n and_o from_o comprehensive_a reason_n fancy_n draw_v a_o copy_n of_o those_o object_n that_o be_v perceive_v by_o the_o external_a sense_n or_o compound_v many_o copy_n together_o but_o create_v no_o image_n of_o thing_n not_o perceptible_a by_o the_o sense_n we_o can_v imagine_v mountain_n of_o gold_n because_o we_o have_v see_v gold_n and_o mountain_n we_o conceive_v monstrous_a mixture_n in_o dream_n but_o no_o actor_n can_v appear_v on_o the_o theatre_n of_o fancy_n but_o in_o borrow_a habit_n from_o sensible_a thing_n but_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n be_v such_o thing_n as_o eye_n have_v not_o see_v nor_o ear_n hear_v and_o transcend_v the_o capacity_n of_o the_o imagination_n to_o conceive_v and_o of_o the_o external_a sense_n to_o represent_v yet_o infidel_n blaspheme_v the_o eternal_a truth_n of_o divine_a thing_n as_o the_o fiction_n of_o fancy_n 2._o faith_n be_v distinguish_v from_o science_n acquire_v by_o study_n and_o from_o reason_n reason_n imply_v a_o progress_n from_o one_o degree_n of_o knowledge_n to_o another_o by_o consequence_n draw_v from_o the_o first_o to_o the_o second_o but_o faith_n assert_n to_o thing_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o superior_a authority_n that_o reveal_v they_o and_o command_v we_o to_o believe_v they_o the_o same_o thing_n may_v be_v
in_o his_o die_a hour_n a_o sincere_a life_n be_v attend_v with_o a_o happy_a death_n and_o that_o be_v attend_v with_o a_o more_o happy_a life_n god_n be_v the_o rewarder_n of_o moral_a virtue_n with_o temporal_a blessing_n but_o he_o be_v the_o eternal_a reward_n of_o godly_a sincerity_n this_o be_v the_o first_o notion_n of_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o present_a state_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o integral_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n that_o be_v a_o entire_a conjugation_n of_o all_o those_o sanctify_a grace_n of_o which_o the_o image_n of_o god_n consist_v the_o new_a creature_n in_o its_o form_n be_v not_o like_o the_o effect_n of_o art_n but_o the_o live_a production_n of_o nature_n a_o sculptor_n in_o make_v a_o statue_n of_o marble_n finish_v the_o head_n when_o the_o other_o part_n be_v but_o rude_a stone_n but_o all_o the_o part_n of_o a_o child_n in_o the_o womb_n be_v gradual_o form_v together_o till_o the_o body_n be_v complete_a the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o renew_v a_o man_n infuse_v a_o universal_a habit_n of_o holiness_n that_o be_v comprehensive_a of_o all_o the_o variety_n of_o grace_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian._n as_o the_o corrupt_a nature_n style_v the_o old_a man_n be_v complete_a in_o its_o earthly_a member_n all_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n both_o of_o the_o desire_v and_o angry_a appetite_n and_o dispose_v without_o the_o corrective_a of_o restrain_v grace_n the_o natural_a man_n to_o yield_v to_o all_o temptation_n he_o will_v be_v fierce_a with_o the_o contentious_a licentious_a with_o the_o dissolute_a intemperate_a with_o the_o drunkard_n lascivious_a with_o the_o impure_a impious_a with_o the_o scorner_n of_o religion_n thus_o the_o divine_a nature_n style_v the_o new_a man_n be_v complete_a in_o all_o spiritual_a grace_n and_o incline_v and_o enable_v the_o sanctify_a to_o do_v every_o good_a work_n the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v love_n joy_n peace_n long-suffering_a gentleness_n goodness_n faith_n meekness_n temperance_n although_o they_o be_v distinguish_v in_o their_o activity_n and_o particular_a object_n yet_o they_o always_o be_v join_v in_o the_o same_o subject_a and_o concentre_v in_o god_n who_o be_v immutable_o holy_a and_o one._n they_o be_v mix_v in_o their_o exercise_n without_o confusion_n as_o in_o a_o chorus_n the_o variety_n of_o voice_n be_v harmonious_a and_o conspire_v spiritual_a grace_n according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o perfection_n such_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o their_o union_n every_o real_a saint_n be_v conform_v to_o christ_n of_o who_o he_o receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n there_o be_v spiritual_a gift_n of_o arbitrary_a dispensation_n the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n 1â—_n the_o word_n of_o knowledge_n the_o gift_n of_o healing_n the_o work_n of_o miracle_n be_v separately_z given_z but_o when_o the_o spirit_n prepare_v a_o soul_n for_o his_o habitation_n he_o purify_v it_o from_o sin_n and_o adorn_v it_o with_o every_o grace_n if_o there_o be_v a_o defect_n of_o any_o grace_n the_o opposite_a sin_n in_o its_o power_n remain_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o impossible_a for_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o dwell_v there_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o when_o a_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o any_o particular_a grace_n in_o scripture_n that_o grace_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v in_o union_n with_o other_o grace_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o whoever_o believe_v shall_v be_v save_v and_o st._n paul_n inspire_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o saviour_n say_v that_o faith_n separate_v from_o charity_n be_v of_o no_o avail_n for_o salvation_n though_o i_o have_v all_o faith_n so_o that_o i_o can_v remove_v mountain_n and_o have_v not_o charity_n i_o be_o nothing_o a_o faith_n that_o do_v not_o work_v by_o love_n and_o be_v not_o productive_a of_o obedience_n be_v of_o no_o save_a efficacy_n st._n james_n put_v the_o question_n what_o do_v it_o profit_v my_o brethren_n though_o a_o man_n say_v he_o have_v faith_n and_o have_v not_o work_n can_v faith_n save_v he_o it_o be_v evident_a it_o do_v not_o for_o nothing_o assert_n or_o deny_v more_o strong_o than_o a_o question_n he_o that_o do_v not_o by_o faith_n in_o the_o son_n of_o god_n live_v a_o holy_a life_n must_v die_v for_o ever_o st._n john_n assure_v we_o that_o we_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o favour_n with_o god_n if_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n 14._o we_o know_v that_o we_o have_v pass_v from_o death_n to_o life_n because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n but_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o love_n to_o the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v prove_v by_o our_o love_n to_o god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n 2._o and_o be_v inseparable_a from_o it_o wherever_o salvation_n be_v promise_v to_o a_o particular_a duty_n it_o must_v be_v understand_v in_o a_o collective_a sense_n we_o read_v whoever_o shall_v 21._o call_v upon_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v be_v save_v but_o a_o prevail_a prayer_n must_v proceed_v from_o a_o holy_a person_n that_o keep_v the_o 21._o command_n of_o god_n and_o do_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v please_v in_o his_o sight_n the_o prayer_n must_v be_v mix_v with_o faith_n and_o fervency_n the_o effectual_a fervent_a prayer_n of_o a_o righteous_a 16._o man_n avail_v much_o the_o connexion_n of_o save_a grace_n can_v be_v break_v st._n peter_n excite_v we_o to_o give_v all_o diligence_n to_o add_v to_o our_o faith_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o godliness_n virtue_n a_o active_a power_n to_o render_v it_o lively_a and_o operative_a otherwise_o faith_n be_v a_o mere_a speculative_a dead_a assent_n to_o virtue_n knowledge_n prudence_n to_o direct_v its_o exercise_n in_o the_o season_n wherein_o and_o the_o manner_n how_o our_o duty_n be_v to_o be_v perform_v to_o knowledge_n temperance_n to_o regulate_v our_o appetite_n and_o enjoyment_n in_o the_o use_n of_o thing_n please_v to_o the_o sense_n to_o temperance_n patience_n to_o endure_v the_o evil_n to_o which_o we_o be_v expose_v in_o this_o low_a state_n which_o be_v equal_o if_o not_o more_o necessary_a and_o excellent_a for_o humane_a nature_n be_v more_o affect_v and_o tempt_v by_o sharp_a pain_n and_o grief_n than_o delight_v with_o pleasure_n without_o the_o exercise_n of_o these_o grace_n our_o religion_n will_v be_v by_o fit_n and_o flash_n with_o interrupt_v interval_n to_o patience_n godliness_n that_o be_v a_o respect_n to_o the_o command_v of_o god_n as_o our_o rule_n and_o his_o glory_n as_o our_o end_n that_o be_v distinguish_v from_o mere_a morality_n that_o proceed_v only_o from_o humane_a reason_n and_o respect_v the_o civil_a happiness_n to_o godliness_n brotherly-kindness_n a_o sincere_a love_n to_o all_o of_o the_o same_o heavenly_a extraction_n in_o who_o the_o image_n of_o god_n shine_v and_o to_o brotherly-kindness_n charity_n that_o extend_v to_o all_o the_o partaker_n of_o our_o common_a nature_n all_o spiritual_a grace_n take_v their_o residence_n together_o in_o the_o soul_n not_o one_o single_o enter_v and_o keep_v entire_a possession_n our_o saviour_n tell_v the_o young_a man_n who_o have_v live_v so_o regular_o that_o he_o be_v lovely_a in_o his_o eye_n if_o thou_o will_v be_v perfect_a go_v and_o sell_v all_o and_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a and_o come_v follow_v i_o he_o want_v charity_n and_o self-denial_n to_o make_v his_o obedience_n entire_a 3._o there_o be_v a_o comparative_a perfection_n this_o in_o scripture_n be_v intellectual_a or_o moral_a 1._o intellectual_a perfection_n the_o apostle_n excite_v the_o hebrew_n wherefore_o leave_v 1._o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o begin_n of_o christ_n let_v we_o go_v on_o to_o perfection_n to_o more_o eminent_a degree_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o gospel_n both_o of_o the_o supernatural_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o the_o duty_n contain_v in_o it_o of_o the_o first_o the_o apostle_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v we_o speak_v wisdom_n among_o those_o that_o be_v perfect_a that_o be_v declare_v divine_a mystery_n to_o those_o who_o be_v prepare_v to_o receive_v they_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n declare_v the_o be_v of_o god_n and_o his_o essential_a perfection_n wisdom_n power_n and_o goodness_n shine_v in_o his_o work_n but_o not_o his_o counsel_n in_o order_n to_o our_o salvation_n no_o man_n have_v see_v 1â—_n god_n at_o any_o time_n the_o only_o beget_v which_o be_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o father_n he_o have_v declare_v he_o there_o be_v some_o notice_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a of_o virtue_n and_o vice_n by_o the_o instructive_a light_n of_o reason_n but_o not_o sufficient_a to_o inform_v we_o of_o our_o full_a duty_n the_o discovery_n of_o the_o purity_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o moral_a law_n be_v from_o god_n the_o gospel_n like_o a_o clear_a and_o equal_a glass_n that_o discover_v the_o beauty_n and_o blemish_n of_o the_o face_n make_v know_v to_o we_o what_o defile_v and_o
why_o to_o believe_v and_o what_o thing_n be_v reveal_v as_o object_n of_o faith_n to_o believe_v and_o not_o to_o understand_v the_o reason_n of_o our_o belief_n be_v to_o turn_v faith_n into_o folly_n and_o extravagance_n the_o man_n of_o samaria_n be_v first_o induce_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o woman_n that_o tell_v they_o come_v and_o see_v 4._o the_o man_n that_o have_v tell_v i_o all_o that_o ever_o i_o do_v but_o when_o they_o hear_v christ_n speak_v they_o say_v now_o we_o believe_v not_o for_o thy_o word_n for_o we_o have_v hear_v and_o know_v that_o he_o be_v the_o true_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n the_o understanding_n be_v convince_v by_o reason_n of_o the_o divinity_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o as_o a_o pole_n support_v a_o vine_n but_o do_v not_o give_v life_n and_o virtue_n to_o its_o root_n so_o reason_n assist_v faith_n in_o direct_v it_o to_o the_o scripture_n the_o rule_n of_o it_o but_o faith_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o 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reveal_v god_n do_v not_o require_v our_o assent_n to_o a_o object_n beyond_o the_o merit_n of_o it_o that_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o its_o revelation_n we_o can_v see_v a_o object_n more_o full_o than_o it_o be_v visible_a the_o truth_n of_o evangelical_n mystery_n be_v clear_o reveal_v the_o manner_n of_o they_o be_v not_o discover_v to_o attempt_v the_o comprehensive_a knowledge_n of_o they_o be_v perfect_o vain_a for_o it_o be_v impossible_a impertinent_a and_o of_o dangerous_a consequence_n 1._o it_o be_v impossible_a supernatural_a truth_n can_v be_v primary_o and_o immediate_o discover_v by_o reason_n but_o be_v only_o know_v to_o the_o divine_a mind_n and_o communicate_v to_o create_v understanding_n according_a to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o god_n no_o man_n have_v see_v god_n at_o any_o time_n the_o only_o beget_v 18._o son_n who_o be_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o father_n have_v declare_v he_o the_o gospel_n be_v call_v the_o mystery_n of_o christ_n the_o mystery_n of_o god_n the_o 3._o father_n and_o of_o christ._n because_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v the_o author_n and_o revealer_n of_o it_o god_n contrive_v in_o the_o secret_a of_o his_o eternal_a wisdom_n the_o design_n of_o our_o redemption_n and_o reveal_v it_o in_o his_o own_o time_n it_o be_v therefore_o call_v the_o mystery_n of_o 9_o his_o will_n it_o be_v call_v the_o mystery_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v it_o be_v receive_v by_o faith_n it_o be_v call_v the_o mystery_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n conceal_v 11._o from_o the_o world_n and_o only_o know_v in_o the_o church_n the_o sublime_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o the_o 20._o clear_a spirit_n of_o man_n to_o discover_v without_o special_a revelation_n be_v they_o as_o pure_a as_o they_o be_v corrupt_v and_o as_o sincere_a as_o they_o be_v perverse_a this_o word_n mystery_n be_v never_o apply_v to_o the_o revelation_n that_o god_n have_v make_v of_o his_o wisdom_n in_o the_o frame_v the_o world_n and_o in_o the_o 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our_o judgement_n for_o that_o which_o have_v least_o now_o it_o be_v certain_o much_o more_o suitable_a to_o the_o reasonable_a mind_n to_o acknowledge_v that_o thing_n may_v be_v true_a which_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o conceive_v and_o comprehend_v than_o to_o deny_v the_o natural_a and_o proper_a sense_n of_o many_o clear_a and_o express_v text_n of_o scripture_n that_o declare_v those_o thing_n and_o by_o this_o we_o may_v judge_v of_o the_o gloss_n of_o socinus_n and_o his_o follower_n who_o without_o reverence_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n and_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o word_n rack_v the_o scripture_n to_o make_v they_o speak_v what_o they_o do_v not_o and_o use_v all_o art_n to_o silence_v they_o in_o what_o they_o do_v reveal_v unhappy_a man_n 〈◊〉_d that_o affect_v to_o be_v esteem_v ingenious_a and_o subtle_a to_o the_o extreme_a hazard_n of_o their_o own_o salvation_n how_o much_o safe_o and_o more_o easy_a be_v it_o to_o believe_v the_o plain_a sense_n of_o the_o 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dedicate_v to_o the_o sacred_a trinity_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n which_o clear_o prove_v they_o be_v of_o the_o same_o authority_n and_o power_n and_o consequent_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o conceive_v of_o three_o infinite_a being_n for_o by_o necessity_n one_o will_v limit_v another_o the_o apostle_n declare_v without_o controversy_n great_a be_v the_o mystery_n of_o godliness_n god_n manifest_a in_o the_o flesh_n the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o this_o divine_a mystery_n be_v to_o form_v the_o spirit_n of_o man_n to_o believe_v and_o love_n and_o obey_v god_n for_o in_o it_o there_o be_v the_o clear_a revelation_n of_o god_n admirable_a love_n to_o man_n of_o his_o unspotted_a holiness_n his_o incorruptible_a justice_n the_o great_a motive_n of_o religion_n in_o that_o divine_a doctrine_n we_o have_v the_o most_o ravish_a image_n of_o piety_n and_o virtue_n the_o most_o become_v the_o nature_n of_o god_n to_o give_v and_o of_o man_n to_o receive_v brief_o god_n command_v we_o to_o believe_v in_o his_o son_n without_o faith_n in_o he_o we_o be_v uncapable_a of_o redemption_n by_o he_o when_o christ_n perform_v miraculous_a cure_n he_o require_v of_o the_o person_n whether_o they_o do_v believe_v in_o his_o divine_a power_n and_o what_o he_o declare_v himself_o to_o be_v elect_v mercy_n ordain_v the_o mean_n and_o the_o end_n the_o 2._o apostle_n give_v thanks_o to_o god_n because_o he_o have_v choose_v the_o thessalonian_n to_o salvation_n through_o sanctification_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o belief_n of_o the_o truth_n holiness_n and_o faith_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v indispensable_a qualification_n in_o the_o learned_a and_o ignorant_a that_o will_v be_v save_v by_o the_o son_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o high_a contempt_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n not_o to_o yield_v a_o firm_a assent_n to_o what_o he_o have_v reveal_v concern_v our_o 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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 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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
what_o beautify_v the_o soul_n now_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n both_o in_o the_o extent_n and_o degree_n and_o in_o the_o quality_n and_o efficacy_n of_o it_o 1._o in_o the_o extent_n and_o degree_n there_o be_v a_o mutual_a dependence_n of_o divine_a truth_n one_o illustrate_v and_o infer_v another_o there_o be_v a_o harmonious_a agreement_n between_o they_o one_o support_v another_o and_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o apply_v our_o mind_n intense_o to_o understand_v they_o how_o many_o that_o have_v the_o revelation_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v mean_a proficient_o in_o the_o school_n of_o heaven_n of_o these_o the_o apostle_n speak_v with_o reprehension_n they_o need_v to_o be_v teach_v again_o the_o first_o principle_n of_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o be_v become_v such_o that_o have_v need_n of_o milk_n and_o not_o of_o strong_a meat_n whereas_o other_o be_v come_v to_o full_a age_n and_o have_v their_o sense_n exercise_v to_o discern_v more_o 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and_o prophecy_n be_v complete_o fulfil_v in_o christ._n now_o some_o understand_v more_o clear_o and_o distinct_o the_o contrivance_n and_o part_n of_o our_o mysterious_a redemption_n and_o be_v comparative_o perfect_a all_o the_o treasure_n of_o the_o world_n be_v in_o real_a value_n infinite_o inferior_a to_o save_v truth_n there_o may_v be_v knowledge_n without_o save_a grace_n but_o no_o save_a grace_n without_o knowledge_n the_o understanding_n be_v the_o lead_a faculty_n conversion_n begin_v in_o the_o renew_a mind_n you_o be_v darkness_n now_o you_o be_v light_a in_o the_o lord_n the_o gospel_n can_v be_v profitable_a for_o our_o holiness_n and_o comfort_n but_o by_o the_o intervening_a of_o the_o enlighten_v applicative_a understanding_n the_o conscience_n that_o discover_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o we_o from_o whence_o our_o immediate_a obligation_n arise_v to_o obey_v it_o it_o be_v true_a some_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v fundamental_a and_o some_o be_v perfective_a some_o be_v not_o of_o that_o consequence_n and_o clearness_n as_o other_o and_o the_o ignorance_n of_o they_o be_v not_o damn_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o they_o save_v but_o every_o divine_a truth_n be_v worthy_a of_o our_o attentive_a consideration_n according_a to_o our_o capacity_n for_o they_o contribute_v to_o our_o perfection_n we_o shall_v strive_v to_o advance_v in_o knowledge_n that_o as_o the_o sun_n gradual_o ascend_v the_o horizon_n till_o it_o give_v light_a to_o the_o day_n and_o day_n to_o the_o world_n so_o our_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v more_o clear_a and_o extensive_a till_o we_o be_v complete_o transform_v into_o his_o glorious_a image_n when_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v we_o shall_v be_v entire_o like_o he_o 2._o as_o our_o knowledge_n be_v more_o vital_a affective_a and_o practical_a it_o be_v more_o perfective_a of_o we_o divine_a truth_n have_v a_o goodness_n in_o they_o and_o be_v not_o due_o know_v without_o a_o 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nature_n of_o sanctify_a truth_n in_o civil_a matter_n there_o be_v a_o knowledge_n of_o discourse_n and_o direction_n and_o a_o knowledge_n of_o performance_n and_o in_o holy_a thing_n there_o be_v a_o knowledge_n of_o apprehension_n and_o in_o word_n and_o a_o knowledge_n that_o order_v the_o conversation_n aright_o the_o first_o be_v not_o only_o fruitless_a but_o accidental_o pernicious_a according_a to_o solomon_n expression_n he_o that_o increase_v knowledge_n increase_v sorrow_n a_o small_a degree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n that_o be_v productive_a of_o love_n and_o obedience_n be_v far_o more_o valuable_a than_o a_o more_o large_a and_o accurate_a knowledge_n of_o the_o divine_a attribute_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o office_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v not_o fruitful_a in_o good_a work_n as_o a_o spot_n of_o ground_n cultivate_v according_a to_o its_o quality_n be_v more_o profitable_a than_o a_o large_a field_n that_o lie_v waste_a 2._o moral_a perfection_n be_v evident_a by_o a_o threefold_a comparison_n 1._o of_o the_o saint_n with_o visible_a sinner_n 2._o of_o the_o saint_n among_o themselves_o 3._o of_o some_o eminent_a act_n of_o grace_n with_o low_a act_n in_o the_o same_o kind_n 1._o the_o comparison_n of_o saint_n with_o visible_a sinner_n make_v they_o appear_v as_o perfect_a it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o principle_n in_o the_o best_a here_o of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n inherent_a corruption_n and_o infuse_v grace_n and_o the_o operation_n flow_v from_o they_o according_o be_v mix_v but_o as_o one_o who_o have_v not_o the_o bright_a colour_n of_o white_a and_o red_a in_o the_o complexion_n appear_v a_o excellent_a beauty_n set_v off_o by_o the_o presence_n of_o a_o blackmoor_n so_o the_o beauty_n of_o holiness_n in_o a_o saint_n though_o mix_v with_o blemish_n appear_v complete_a when_o compare_v with_o the_o foul_a deformity_n of_o sinner_n thus_o the_o opposition_n between_o they_o be_v express_v he_o destroy_v the_o perfect_a and_o the_o 22._o wicked_a it_o be_v record_v of_o noah_n that_o he_o be_v a_o just_a and_o perfect_a man_n in_o his_o generation_n 6._o in_o a_o age_n when_o wickedness_n reign_v when_o chastity_n be_v expel_v from_o the_o number_n of_o virtue_n and_o modesty_n be_v censure_v as_o a_o vice_n when_o impiety_n be_v arrive_v at_o the_o high_a pitch_n and_o the_o deluge_n be_v necessary_a to_o purge_v the_o world_n from_o such_o sinner_n then_o the_o sanctity_n and_o piety_n of_o noah_n shine_v as_o brightness_n issue_v from_o the_o star_n he_o appear_v perfect_o good_a compare_v with_o the_o prodigious_o bad_a 2._o in_o compare_v the_o saint_n among_o themselves_o some_o be_v style_v perfect_a there_o be_v different_a degree_n among_o sinner_n some_o be_v so_o dispose_v to_o wickedness_n that_o they_o may_v be_v denominate_v from_o as_o many_o ruffinum_n vice_n that_o possess_v their_o soul_n as_o the_o evil_a spirit_n in_o the_o man_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o gospel_n answer_v his_o name_n be_v legion_n from_o the_o number_n of_o devil_n that_o possess_v he_o they_o drive_v through_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o esse_fw-la sin_n so_o violent_o and_o furious_o that_o compare_v to_o they_o other_o sinner_n seem_v innocent_a and_o be_v far_o less_o obnoxious_a to_o judgement_n thus_o there_o be_v singular_a saint_n who_o grace_n be_v so_o conspicuous_a and_o convince_v and_o a_o universal_a holiness_n appear_v in_o their_o conversation_n as_o make_v they_o venerable_a among_o the_o vicious_a their_o presence_n will_v restrain_v the_o dissolute_a from_o excess_n either_o in_o word_n or_o action_n as_o effectual_o as_o a_o magistrate_n by_o the_o terror_n of_o his_o power_n other_o saint_n though_o sincere_a yet_o there_o be_v such_o a_o mixture_n of_o shade_n and_o light_n in_o their_o action_n that_o they_o be_v in_o low_a esteem_n compare_v meek_a moses_n with_o the_o passionate_a prophet_n ionas_n who_o justify_v his_o anger_n to_o the_o
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
it_o be_v clear_a and_o pure_a direct_v we_o in_o our_o universal_a duty_n the_o promise_n be_v precious_a encourage_v we_o by_o the_o prospect_n of_o the_o reward_n the_o threaten_n terrible_a to_o preserve_v we_o from_o sin_n there_o be_v a_o instrumental_a fitness_n in_o the_o word_n preach_v to_o perfect_v the_o image_n of_o god_n in_o we_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o convey_v the_o revelation_n to_o we_o have_v a_o congruity_n to_o work_v upon_o the_o subject_n to_o who_o it_o be_v reveal_v the_o first_o insinuation_n of_o sin_n be_v by_o the_o ear_n the_o first_o inspiration_n of_o grace_n be_v by_o it_o through_o the_o ear_n be_v the_o entrance_n of_o death_n it_o be_v now_o the_o gate_n of_o life_n in_o heaven_n we_o shall_v know_v god_n by_o sight_n now_o by_o hear_v when_o a_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v enlighten_v from_o heaven_n and_o zealous_a for_o the_o salvation_n of_o soul_n he_o be_v fit_a for_o this_o work_n than_o if_o a_o angel_n be_v a_o minister_a spirit_n in_o this_o sense_n and_o employ_v in_o this_o holy_a office_n for_o he_o that_o preach_v have_v the_o same_o interest_n in_o the_o doctrine_n declare_v by_o he_o his_o everlasting_a happiness_n be_v near_o concern_v and_o therefore_o be_v most_o likely_a to_o affect_v other_o when_o a_o holy_a fire_n be_v kindle_v in_o the_o breast_n it_o will_v inflame_v the_o lip_n the_o mind_n convince_v the_o mind_n and_o the_o heart_n persuade_v the_o heart_n but_o we_o must_v consider_v that_o as_o the_o instrument_n can_v effect_v that_o for_o which_o it_o be_v make_v without_o it_o be_v direct_v and_o apply_v for_o that_o end_n so_o without_o a_o superior_a influence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n that_o give_v vital_a power_n to_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n it_o be_v without_o efficacy_n what_o our_o saviour_n speak_v of_o the_o natural_a life_n be_v applicable_a to_o the_o spiritual_a man_n live_v not_o by_o bread_n alone_o but_o by_o every_o word_n that_o proceed_v from_o god_n mouth_n a_o minister_n with_o all_o his_o reason_n and_o rhetoric_n can_v turn_v a_o soul_n from_o sin_n to_o holiness_n without_o the_o omnipotent_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o apostle_n tell_v the_o thessalonian_n that_o the_o gospel_n come_v not_o to_o they_o in_o word_n only_o but_o also_o in_o power_n and_o in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o gospel_n than_o come_v only_o in_o word_n when_o it_o pierce_v no_o further_a than_o the_o ear_n that_o be_v the_o sense_n to_o try_v word_n and_o distinguish_v different_a sound_n and_o voice_n but_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n direct_v and_o animate_v by_o the_o spirit_n do_v not_o stop_v at_o the_o ear_n the_o door_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o pass_v into_o the_o understanding_n and_o the_o heart_n that_o make_v a_o change_n so_o real_a and_o great_a in_o the_o quality_n of_o man_n as_o be_v express_v by_o substantial_a production_n it_o be_v therefore_o say_v we_o be_v beget_v and_o bear_v again_o by_o the_o incorruptible_a seed_n of_o the_o word_n the_o word_n become_v effectual_a for_o the_o increase_n of_o holiness_n when_o it_o be_v mix_v with_o faith_n which_o bind_v the_o conscience_n to_o entire_a obedience_n it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n our_o king_n lawgiver_n and_o judge_n the_o rule_n of_o our_o present_a duty_n and_o of_o future_a judgement_n in_o the_o great_a day_n of_o decision_n the_o divine_a law_n be_v universal_a and_o unchangeable_a and_o the_o duty_n of_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a for_o some_o and_o needless_a for_o other_o but_o must_v be_v obey_v without_o partiality_n notwithstanding_o the_o repugnance_n of_o the_o carnal_a passion_n when_o it_o be_v serious_o believe_v and_o consider_v the_o hearer_n be_v induce_v to_o receive_v it_o with_o preparation_n and_o resolution_n of_o yield_v to_o it_o there_o be_v no_o truth_n more_o evident_a nor_o injure_v than_o this_o that_o perfect_a obedience_n be_v due_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n declare_v in_o his_o word_n this_o all_o profess_v in_o the_o general_n but_o contradict_v in_o particular_n when_o a_o temptation_n cross_v the_o precept_n now_o the_o first_o act_n of_o obedience_n to_o the_o truth_n be_v the_o believe_v it_o with_o so_o steadfast_a a_o assent_n wrought_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o it_o purify_v the_o heart_n and_o reform_v the_o whole_a man_n 2._o with_o faith_n there_o must_v be_v join_v a_o earnest_a desire_n to_o grow_v in_o holiness_n this_o be_v declare_v by_o st._n peter_n as_o new_o bear_v babe_n desire_v the_o sincere_a milk_n of_o the_o word_n that_o you_o may_v grow_v thereby_o in_o the_o natural_a life_n there_o be_v a_o inseparable_a appetite_n of_o food_n to_o maintain_v it_o the_o inward_a sense_n of_o its_o necessity_n cause_n a_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o suitable_a supply_n to_o preserve_v and_o improve_v it_o this_o be_v experiment_a in_o every_o one_o that_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o spirit_n they_o attend_v and_o apply_v the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o they_o not_o mere_o to_o prevent_v the_o sharp_a reflection_n of_o conscience_n for_o the_o impious_a neglect_n of_o their_o duty_n for_o that_o proceed_v from_o fear_n not_o from_o desire_n but_o to_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n and_o holiness_n not_o in_o a_o airy_a flashy_a knowledge_n that_o be_v only_o fruitful_a to_o increase_v gild_n and_o punishment_n but_o substantial_a and_o save_a knowledge_n that_o be_v influential_a upon_o practice_n hear_v be_v in_o order_n to_o do_v and_o do_v be_v the_o way_n to_o happiness_n it_o be_v not_o the_o forgetful_a hearer_n but_o the_o doer_n of_o the_o word_n shall_v be_v bless_v in_o his_o deed_n the_o bare_a knowledge_n of_o evil_n do_v no_o hurt_n nor_o the_o bare_a knowledge_n of_o our_o duty_n without_o practice_n do_v no_o good_n feeding_n without_o digest_v the_o food_n and_o turn_v it_o into_o blood_n and_o spirit_n afford_v no_o nourishment_n nor_o strength_n the_o most_o diligent_a hear_n and_o comprehensive_a knowledge_n of_o our_o duty_n without_o practice_n be_v not_o profitable_a the_o enemy_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v content_v that_o divine_a truth_n shall_v be_v in_o our_o understanding_n if_o he_o can_v intercept_v their_o passage_n into_o our_o heart_n and_o conversation_n he_o practise_v over_o continual_o the_o first_o temptation_n to_o induce_v we_o by_o guile_n to_o choose_v the_o tree_n of_o knowledge_n before_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n we_o be_v therefore_o command_v to_o be_v doer_n of_o the_o word_n not_o hearer_n only_o deceive_v our_o own_o soul_n 3._o that_o the_o spiritual_a life_n may_v be_v increase_v by_o the_o word_n it_o must_v be_v lay_v up_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o memory_n and_o hide_v in_o the_o heart_n david_n say_v i_o have_v hide_v thy_o word_n in_o my_o heart_n that_o i_o may_v not_o sin_v against_o thou_o his_o affection_n to_o the_o word_n cause_v his_o continual_a meditation_n of_o it_o that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o live_a root_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o holiness_n in_o their_o season_n if_o there_o be_v the_o same_o care_n and_o diligence_n in_o remember_v and_o observe_v the_o rule_n of_o life_n prescribe_v by_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n as_o man_n use_v in_o remember_v and_o practise_v rule_n for_o the_o recovery_n of_o the_o health_n of_o their_o body_n and_o it_o be_v just_o requisite_a there_o shall_v be_v more_o since_o the_o life_n of_o the_o soul_n infinite_o excel_v the_o life_n of_o the_o body_n how_o holy_a and_o bless_v will_v they_o be_v the_o advice_n of_o the_o roman_a physician_n that_o be_v conducive_a for_o the_o health_n of_o the_o body_n be_v applicable_a to_o the_o soul_n after_o celsus_n a_o full_a meal_n abstain_v from_o laborious_a action_n that_o the_o heat_n of_o the_o spirit_n may_v be_v concenter_v in_o the_o stomach_n for_o digestion_n otherwise_o if_o divert_v and_o employ_v in_o labour_n the_o stomach_n will_v be_v fill_v with_o crudity_n thus_o after_o hear_v the_o word_n our_o thought_n shall_v not_o be_v scatter_v in_o the_o world_n but_o we_o shall_v recollect_v and_o revolve_v it_o in_o our_o mind_n that_o it_o may_v be_v digest_v into_o practice_n it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o virgin_n mary_n she_o keep_v thâ—se_a say_n and_o 19_o ponder_v they_o in_o her_o heart_n there_o be_v powerful_a motive_n to_o engage_v we_o to_o a_o conscientious_a attendance_n upon_o this_o duty_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o he_o that_o hear_v i_o that_o be_v with_o subjection_n of_o soul_n have_v eternal_a life_n and_o in_o one_o instance_n he_o have_v declare_v how_o much_o approve_v and_o acceptable_a it_o be_v to_o he_o for_o when_o martha_n be_v employ_v about_o entertain_v he_o and_o mary_n be_v attentive_a to_o receive_v his_o instruction_n he_o say_v mary_n have_v choose_v the_o better_a part_n that_o shall_v not_o be_v take_v from_o she_o his_o feed_n mary_n be_v more_o
a_o duty_n of_o constant_a revolution_n for_o while_o we_o be_v clothe_v with_o frail_a flesh_n in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o he_o be_v the_o best_a saint_n who_o seldom_o fall_v and_o speedy_o rise_v what_o tertullian_n say_v of_o himself_o be_v applicable_a to_o all_o we_o be_v bear_v for_o repentance_n what_o be_v more_o become_v a_o christian_n while_o so_o many_o defect_n and_o defilement_n cleave_v to_o he_o than_o a_o mournful_a sense_n of_o they_o this_o in_o our_o die_a hour_n will_v make_v our_o redeemer_n more_o precious_a to_o we_o and_o our_o reliance_n upon_o his_o merit_n and_o mediation_n more_o comfortable_a repentance_n shall_v accompany_v we_o to_o the_o gate_n of_o heaven_n but_o repentance_n cease_v for_o ever_o when_o there_o be_v entire_a innocence_n faith_n be_v as_o necessary_a as_o life_n for_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o it_o from_o the_o condemnation_n of_o the_o law_n but_o in_o the_o future_a state_n there_o be_v no_o use_n of_o it_o for_o in_o heaven_n all_o sin_n be_v pardon_v and_o in_o hell_n no_o sin_n be_v forgive_v faith_n give_v we_o the_o prospect_n of_o heaven_n hope_n wait_v for_o it_o but_o love_v alone_o take_v the_o possession_n faith_n reslgn_v to_o fruition_n hope_n vanish_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o our_o desire_a happiness_n but_o love_n be_v in_o its_o exaltation_n the_o grace_n requisite_a for_o our_o militant_a state_n be_v spiritual_a armour_n the_o shield_n of_o faith_n the_o helmet_n of_o hope_n and_o when_o our_o warfare_n be_v end_v they_o be_v useless_a but_o love_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n be_v robe_n suitable_a to_o our_o triumphant_a state_n it_o be_v true_a there_o be_v some_o act_n of_o love_n that_o suppose_v want_n and_o misery_n as_o act_n of_o bounty_n and_o compassion_n for_o there_o be_v no_o object_n in_o heaven_n to_o who_o they_o may_v be_v express_v perfect_a happiness_n exclude_v all_o evil._n but_o love_n in_o its_o nature_n imply_v no_o imperfection_n and_o be_v eternal_a as_o the_o soul_n the_o subject_a in_o who_o it_o reign_v and_o as_o god_n and_o the_o bless_a spirit_n the_o object_n upon_o who_o it_o be_v conversant_a in_o heaven_n it_o be_v more_o pure_a and_o refine_a here_o the_o love_n of_o god_n take_v its_o rise_n from_o the_o love_n of_o ourselves_o there_o it_o be_v principal_o for_o the_o amiable_a excellency_n inherent_a in_o himself_o here_o the_o love_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v not_o absolute_o pure_a but_o in_o heaven_n whatever_o be_v desirable_a in_o love_n be_v continue_v and_o what_o be_v carnal_a and_o defile_v be_v purge_v away_o the_o smoky_a fire_n be_v change_v into_o a_o spiritual_a flame_n the_o act_n of_o it_o be_v more_o intense_a and_o the_o exercise_n be_v without_o interruption_n in_o heaven_n the_o saint_n be_v enlighten_v with_o knowledge_n from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n and_o inflame_v with_o love_n from_o god_n who_o be_v love_n the_o more_o full_o he_o be_v enjoy_v the_o more_o fervent_o he_o be_v love_v without_o love_n there_o can_v be_v no_o felicity_n in_o heaven_n for_o as_o desire_v without_o fruition_n be_v a_o torment_n so_o possession_n without_o delight_n be_v stupidity_n the_o joy_n of_o heaven_n arise_v either_o from_o the_o direct_a fruition_n of_o god_n or_o from_o the_o reflection_n upon_o the_o happiness_n communicate_v to_o the_o saint_n and_o love_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o that_o joy_n love_n to_o corporeal_a thing_n often_o decline_v in_o our_o possess_v they_o for_o curiosity_n be_v soon_o cloy_v and_o experience_n discover_v the_o imperfection_n that_o be_v conceal_v and_o according_a to_o the_o cool_n of_o love_n be_v the_o lessen_v of_o joy_n from_o hence_o proceed_v distaste_v and_o a_o sickle_n slight_a from_o one_o thing_n to_o another_o without_o ever_o receive_v any_o satisfaction_n but_o the_o amiable_a perfection_n of_o god_n be_v true_o infinite_a and_o the_o more_o clear_a the_o vision_n the_o more_o satisfy_v the_o fruition_n be_v the_o brightness_n and_o influence_n of_o the_o divine_a presence_n maintain_v equal_a love_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o bless_a according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o excellency_n in_o the_o object_n and_o the_o vigorous_a exercise_n of_o the_o comprehensive_a faculty_n the_o understanding_n and_o will_n upon_o it_o such_o be_v our_o felicity_n when_o the_o beam_n of_o god_n face_n be_v receive_v into_o the_o prepare_a soul_n it_o be_v ravish_v with_o unspeakable_a sweetness_n and_o security_n in_o his_o ever-satisfying_a goodness_n and_o beauty_n the_o perfect_a and_o mutual_a love_n of_o the_o saint_n cause_v a_o full_a overflow_a joy_n in_o heaven_n sincere_a love_n be_v always_o benevolent_a and_o according_a to_o its_o ardency_n be_v the_o desire_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o those_o who_o be_v the_o object_n of_o it_o from_o hence_o the_o delight_n of_o the_o saint_n above_o be_v redouble_v by_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o personal_a happiness_n and_o the_o reflection_n upon_o the_o happiness_n of_o all_o that_o bless_a society_n who_o be_v cement_v by_o that_o dear_a affection_n sorrow_n be_v allay_v by_o the_o sympathy_n of_o our_o friend_n but_o joy_n be_v heighten_v by_o communication_n sorrow_n like_o a_o stream_n divide_v in_o many_o channel_n run_v more_o shallow_a but_o joy_n like_o a_o sunbeam_n reflect_v with_o more_o intense_a heat_n from_o the_o breast_n of_o one_o endear_v to_o we_o by_o love_n in_o heaven_n there_o be_v a_o eternal_a ecstasy_n of_o love_n and_o joy_n i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o consider_v our_o love_n to_o god_n which_o be_v the_o first_o and_o great_a command_n in_o order_n and_o dignity_n it_o be_v the_o universal_a command_n that_o bind_v all_o person_n and_o in_o all_o time_n some_o precept_n be_v particular_a and_o respect_v the_o several_a relation_n of_o man_n either_o natural_a civil_a or_o spiritual_a other_o command_n though_o general_n yet_o be_v to_o be_v perform_v in_o special_a season_n prayer_n be_v a_o universal_a duty_n for_o all_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o dependence_n upon_o god_n and_o it_o be_v the_o appoint_a mean_n to_o obtain_v his_o favour_n and_o benefit_n it_o be_v a_o duty_n of_o daily_a revolution_n for_o we_o continual_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o his_o tender_a and_o powerful_a providence_n to_o bestow_v good_a thing_n and_o avert_v evil_a but_o this_o not_o to_o be_v our_o perpetual_a exercise_n for_o there_o be_v other_o duty_n to_o which_o we_o must_v attend_v that_o require_v a_o great_a part_n of_o our_o time_n if_o there_o be_v a_o disposition_n in_o the_o heart_n a_o aptness_n for_o that_o holy_a duty_n though_o the_o season_n be_v distant_a it_o be_v sufficient_a for_o our_o acceptance_n with_o god_n but_o love_n in_o all_o period_n of_o time_n must_v be_v in_o act_n for_o obedience_n must_v ever_o be_v practise_v and_o that_o be_v animate_v by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o spring_n and_o soul_n of_o it_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v a_o continual_a exercise_n of_o humble_a grateful_a and_o dutiful_a love_n i_o will_v consider_v the_o cause_n and_o property_n of_o this_o sanctify_a affection_n love_n be_v a_o affection_n draw_v forth_o by_o desire_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o its_o object_n rest_v in_o complacency_n when_o the_o object_n be_v present_a the_o attractive_a of_o it_o be_v goodness_n which_o imply_v a_o convenience_n and_o agreement_n between_o the_o object_n and_o the_o faculty_n the_o appetite_n be_v excite_v by_o the_o apprehension_n in_o the_o sensitive_a nature_n without_o perception_n and_o agreement_n there_o can_v be_v no_o desire_n and_o delight_n the_o eye_n be_v not_o please_v with_o the_o most_o exquisite_a music_n be_v undiscernible_a and_o unsuitable_a to_o it_o the_o ear_n though_o exact_o temper_v be_v not_o affect_v with_o light_n the_o first_o and_o fair_a of_o sensitive_a beauty_n for_o every_o sense_n have_v its_o proper_a object_n to_o which_o it_o be_v confine_v and_o can_v perceive_v or_o taste_v any_o pleasure_n in_o another_o and_o such_o be_v the_o frame_n of_o the_o humane_a soul_n the_o enlighten_v understanding_n instruct_v and_o excite_v the_o will_n to_o esteem_v and_o love_n choose_v and_o embrace_v god_n as_o the_o supreme_a good_a for_o his_o absolute_a inherent_a perfection_n and_o his_o relative_n attribute_n whereby_o he_o be_v infinite_o the_o best_a and_o most_o aimiable_a be_v in_o himself_o and_o the_o most_o beneficial_a to_o we_o the_o internal_a perfection_n of_o the_o deity_n though_o they_o be_v all_o the_o same_o divine_a nature_n for_o otherwise_o they_o can_v not_o be_v true_o infinite_a yet_o we_o may_v conceive_v as_o distinguish_v in_o a_o threefold_a order_n either_o as_o natural_a or_o intellectual_a or_o moral_a natural_a perfection_n self-existence_n eternity_n immensity_n omnipotence_n intellectual_a perfection_n knowledge_n comprehensive_a of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v and_o all_o thing_n within_o the_o possibility_n of_o be_v wisdom_n sufficient_a
to_o govern_v and_o order_n innumerable_a world_n moral_a perfection_n holiness_n goodness_n justice_n and_o truth_n now_o the_o union_n of_o these_o perfection_n in_o god_n deserve_v we_o shall_v glorify_v he_o with_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o our_o understanding_n and_o will_n with_o the_o high_a veneration_n and_o esteem_n and_o the_o most_o ardent_a affection_n if_o the_o weak_a and_o transient_a resemblance_n of_o some_o of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n in_o the_o creature_n from_o who_o we_o neither_o receive_v nor_o expect_v any_o benefit_n raise_v our_o esteem_n and_o draw_v our_o love_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n fill_v we_o with_o admiration_n and_o the_o dear_a affection_n to_o he_o his_o absolute_a perfection_n be_v not_o the_o object_n of_o our_o desire_n for_o he_o be_v entire_o possess_v of_o they_o and_o can_v never_o be_v devest_v of_o they_o but_o of_o our_o love_n and_o joy_n 2._o consider_v god_n in_o his_o relative_n attribute_n to_o we_o as_o our_o maker_n preserver_n and_o benefactor_n as_o our_o redeemer_n that_o save_v we_o from_o a_o everlasting_a hell_n and_o have_v purchase_v and_o prepare_v eternal_a glory_n for_o we_o and_o prepare_v we_o for_o it_o the_o eternity_n omni-presence_n and_o omnipotence_n of_o god_n be_v awful_a attribute_n and_o deserve_v our_o most_o humble_a adoration_n for_o he_o that_o live_v for_o ever_o can_v punish_v for_o ever_o yet_o in_o conjunction_n with_o his_o propitious_a beneficent_a attribute_n goodness_n clemency_n and_o benignity_n be_v aimable_fw-fr perfection_n and_o deserve_v our_o singular_a and_o superlative_a love_n for_o eternal_a power_n conser_n and_o maintain_v our_o happiness_n at_o thy_o right_a hand_n be_v pleasure_n for_o evermore_o the_o first_o rise_v of_o our_o love_n be_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o benefit_n but_o we_o must_v love_v he_o above_o his_o benefit_n and_o value_v his_o benefit_n for_o his_o sake_n as_o they_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o love_n this_o inspire_v a_o holy_a heat_n in_o the_o psalmist_n breast_n what_o shall_v i_o render_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o all_o his_o benefit_n that_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o benefit_n may_v sink_v and_o settle_v into_o our_o heart_n i_o will_v consider_v the_o principle_n from_o whence_o they_o proceed_v the_o greatness_n of_o they_o and_o god_n end_v in_o bestow_v they_o 1._o the_o principle_n of_o all_o his_o benefit_n be_v his_o most_o free_a and_o pure_a goodness_n the_o psalmist_n declare_v thou_o be_v good_a and_o do_v good_a it_o be_v true_a his_o high_a perfection_n be_v very_o resplendent_a in_o his_o work_n yet_o this_o induce_v no_o necessity_n upon_o god_n for_o declarative_a glory_n result_v from_o the_o exercise_n and_o effect_n of_o his_o attribute_n be_v not_o necessary_a he_o be_v from_o all_o eternity_n infinite_o glorious_a and_o bless_a in_o himself_o neither_o be_v any_o motive_n or_o merit_n in_o we_o to_o determine_v his_o will_n either_o to_o create_v or_o redeem_v we_o for_o antecedent_o to_o the_o first_o act_n of_o his_o goodness_n we_o have_v no_o be_v and_o consequent_o no_o possibility_n or_o shadow_n of_o desert_n and_o after_o our_o sin_n we_o be_v deserve_o miserable_a 2._o let_v we_o ponder_v his_o benefit_n that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a we_o may_v not_o miss_v a_o grain_n of_o their_o weight_n 1._o in_o the_o order_n of_o nature_n he_o make_v we_o and_o not_o we_o ourselves_o the_o humane_a body_n compose_v of_o as_o many_o miracle_n as_o member_n be_v the_o design_n of_o his_o mind_n the_o various_a art_n and_o work_n of_o his_o hand_n he_o immediate_o form_v the_o body_n of_o adam_n of_o the_o virgin_n earth_n and_o though_o in_o the_o course_n of_o nature_n our_o parent_n contribute_v to_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o body_n yet_o he_o organise_n they_o in_o that_o perfection_n he_o dispose_v all_o the_o part_n in_o that_o order_n and_o proportion_n as_o be_v requisite_a for_o comeliness_n and_o use._n the_o psalmist_n speak_v of_o this_o with_o those_o lively_a expression_n i_o will_v praise_v thou_o for_o i_o be_o fearful_o and_o wonderful_o make_v marvellous_a be_v thy_o work_n and_o that_o my_o soul_n know_v right_a well_o i_o be_v make_v in_o secret_a and_o curious_o wrought_v in_o the_o low_a part_n of_o the_o earth_n thy_o eye_n do_v see_v my_o substance_n yet_o be_v imperfect_a and_o in_o thy_o book_n all_o my_o member_n be_v write_v if_o one_o member_n have_v be_v defective_a the_o eye_n the_o hand_n the_o tongue_n if_o one_o sense_n have_v be_v want_v what_o inconvenience_n what_o deformity_n have_v ensue_v to_o a_o body_n of_o flesh_n the_o divine_a maker_n unite_v a_o immortal_a soul_n capable_a to_o know_v and_o love_n to_o obey_v and_o enjoy_v he_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o felicity_n a_o soul_n incomparable_o more_o precious_a in_o the_o account_n of_o our_o creator_n and_o redeemer_n than_o all_o the_o world_n it_o heighten_v the_o goodness_n of_o god_n that_o he_o first_o prepare_v the_o world_n review_v it_o and_o approve_v marc._n all_o as_o good_a and_o then_o introduce_v man_n as_o his_o viceroy_n to_o possess_v and_o rule_v it_o the_o great_a universe_n he_o do_v not_o make_v for_o the_o mere_a show_n of_o his_o power_n but_o for_o the_o demonstration_n of_o his_o goodness_n unto_o man._n the_o reflection_n upon_o these_o first_o benefit_n our_o be_v reasonable_a creature_n which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o other_o benefit_n how_o shall_v it_o engage_v we_o to_o love_n and_o serve_v our_o maker_n with_o all_o our_o power_n in_o their_o best_a capacity_n our_o obligation_n be_v found_v in_o natural_a and_o divine_a right_n the_o law_n of_o consecrate_v the_o first_o fruit_n be_v figurative_a of_o this_o love_n be_v the_o first_o affection_n of_o the_o heart_n the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o soul_n if_o god_n do_v so_o strict_o exact_v the_o payment_n of_o the_o first_o fruit_n can_v we_o think_v he_o be_v less_o jealous_a of_o our_o love_n and_o less_o severe_a in_o require_v it_o shall_v be_v consecrate_v to_o he_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o young_a plant_n be_v not_o more_o please_v to_o he_o than_o of_o a_o old_a tree_n but_o he_o will_v instruct_v we_o to_o give_v the_o first_o affection_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o he_o 2._o if_o we_o raise_v our_o thought_n and_o distinct_o consider_v create_v goodness_n our_o affection_n will_v be_v more_o inflame_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o we_o be_v bear_v in_o distant_a space_n of_o time_n according_a to_o his_o eternal_a benevolent_a decree_n notwithstanding_o the_o different_a temporal_a circumstance_n of_o our_o come_n into_o the_o world_n we_o be_v all_o equal_o oblige_v to_o his_o eternal_a goodness_n let_v we_o consider_v that_o in_o the_o pure_a possibility_n of_o be_v we_o be_v not_o distinguish_v from_o a_o infinite_a number_n that_o shall_v never_o be_v for_o as_o his_o power_n be_v without_o any_o limit_n but_o his_o will_n the_o possible_a production_n of_o man_n be_v without_o number_n yet_o he_o be_v please_v to_o raise_v we_o into_o actual_a be_v this_o be_v a_o most_o free_a favour_n and_o by_o reflect_v on_o it_o unless_o we_o be_v dead_a as_o the_o grave_a we_o shall_v find_v a_o warm_a lively_a sense_n of_o it_o in_o our_o heart_n if_o a_o prince_n exalt_v and_o enrich_v a_o favourite_n his_o own_o interest_n be_v mix_v with_o the_o honour_n and_o profit_n of_o the_o favourite_n for_o he_o expect_v service_n from_o he_o but_o god_n who_o happiness_n be_v infinite_a and_o indeficient_a can_v receive_v any_o benefit_n from_o the_o service_n of_o the_o creature_n his_o favour_n be_v above_o all_o desert_n and_o beyond_o all_o requital_n 2._o if_o we_o consider_v god_n as_o our_o preserver_n and_o benefactor_n our_o obligation_n to_o love_n and_o thankfulness_n be_v infinite_a the_o first_o be_v and_o uninterrupted_a duration_n of_o the_o world_n be_v from_o the_o same_o powerful_a cause_n for_o nothing_o can_v make_v itself_o when_o it_o be_v not_o nor_o preserve_v itself_o when_o '_o it_o be_v some_o have_v revive_v that_o erroneous_a opinion_n that_o as_o a_o clock_n form_v by_o a_o artificer_n and_o the_o weight_n draw_v up_o regular_o strike_v the_o hour_n and_o continue_v its_o motion_n and_o sound_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o the_o artificer_n so_o the_o perpetual_a concourse_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n be_v not_o necessary_a for_o the_o support_n and_o operation_n of_o every_o creature_n but_o nature_n may_v work_v of_o itself_o and_o turn_v the_o wheel_n of_o all_o thing_n within_o its_o compass_n but_o the_o instance_n be_v defective_a there_o be_v a_o extreme_a disparity_n between_o the_o work_n of_o a_o artificer_n in_o form_v a_o clock_n who_o matter_n be_v independent_a upon_o he_o and_o god_n give_v the_o first_o be_v to_o the_o creature_n with_o power_n to_o act_v by_o