this should be framed out of its dregs after plain Gospel-Testimony is believed there being no one Saying in the Gospel declaring any such thing or that giveth ground for any such consequence and why should any of us that have received so much good in the Gospel-Testimony strain for a consequence to maintain that which the Gospel declareth not yea which stands cross to many Declarations yea Heb. 4.6 and to the scope of that very place alledged some must enter which appears to be spoken to encourage the weakest Believers to abide and go on in their Faith that they may enter the Rest or Canaan Compare ch 3. 4. with ch 6 12-20 11. See Part 3. ch 2. God hath sworn to give Abraham Isaac and Jacob and their Seed and they looked to receive it in a heavenly manner a new Earth c. which they never yet did nor shall till we all to the last that shall be called by the Gospel-Ministration come to enter together with them True God by Moses called them out of Egypt to that very promised Canaan but not at that time to receive it in that manner promised to Abraham but yet to receive it for which he gave them his promise which they not firmly believing especially after the receit of the first-Fruits all the antient Men except Caleb and Joshua that followed him fully in the faith of his Promise fell in the Wilderness and entred not not but that Moses Aaron Miriam Zelophehad and all like them even all but the rebellious shall in the Resurrection of the Just rise again and enter this promised Rest with Abraham c. So that in this they were but Types and Examples to us Those that Joshua led into the Land the Lord by Joshua gave them rest and in continuing in the Law of the Lord they might have retained it in that manner till the coming of Christ but yet the Rest as promised to Abraham was not then given no nor yet so long after as in David's time who when a King there and had both his people and his enemies subdued to him yet confest himself a stranger as his Fathers were and affirmed the promised Rest to be yet to come yet sure all that lived and died in the Faith must rise and enter when Abraham enters after God sent forth Christ for a Witness and Covenant that resting on him by Faith they might be so entring and in due time fully enter And the Gospel hereof was first preached to the Jews who for the most part refused and so entred not by by Faith and deprived themselves of a personal entrance when the time cometh yet God in his faithfulness to Abraham will preserve a Seed of Men of his Generation through all troubles that there should be found of them surviving at the coming of Christ and be brought in by him and shall enter when Abraham and all that sleep in Jesus shall be raised and enter together with them and till then none so enter for were it already so entred our hope would be cut off but it is not the rest yet remaineth for the people of God that we believing and abiding in Christ may have him for our rest and so be entring by Faith now and personally at Christ his next coming to encourage all Believers to firmness and constancy in this faith is the drift scope of the Apostle Rom. 9.19 who hath thus opened the same Methinks none should be so void of fear to affirm that as the Saying of the Holy Ghost which is given as the suggestion of an evil spirit Saying of a vain Man and so reproved Who hath resisted his Will as if none had or could which with grief I suppose true Believers will confess they have too often What other evils of dissention among Brethren c. the affirming of this devised Purpose to be both the Purpose of God and the Foundation and what other inconveniencies follow the maintaining of the last mentioned figment I will forbear to speak onely I confess for the reverence I bare to some I was a long time snared with this old fable till I experimented the evils mentioned and was brought to confess God in his Sayings true whoever be a lyar nor do I now blame any but my self who might have received good onely and not harm by what I read if I had not made Mens holiness and learning but the Scripture onely the umpire of my Faith and yet I have learned this That a Wolf in a Sheep's-Skin may for a time be imbraced and pleaded for by them that are no Wolves and so to be sober in judging yea this I farther confess That when I thought my self freed this last mentioned figment did a long time remain with me yea I was not freed of it when that my first published Tract called by the Printer The Vniversality of God's Free-Grace to Mankinde was put forth some Expressions there of it I wish were amended So that in this whole Chapter I own the blame of all the folly shewn to my self desiring of God as for forgiveness of all my Transgressions so of those in maintenance and favour of this old Fable or the last mentioned figment in Word or any Manuscript of mine desiring him that hath freed me to free others And yet I believe the eternal Purpose of God and the Foundation he hath laid according to his Purpose and his Election of that Foundation and of all in believing united to him to be verily true precious unmoveable unalterable as they are revealed in the Scripture as I have fore-declared CHAP. 12. The Conclusion about the Purposes of God to be known and believed THe Gospel as now come forth the Testimony of Christ in that which he hath suffered and done and what he is to and for them and what he doth to them that they might believe and what he will farther do to and for them believing his Father's and his own end in all this it is the Word and Minde of God yea the very opening and Declaration of the Heart Bosome Counsels and Purposes of God there is no Purpose of God cross to any part of this Testimony nor is there any Purpose that is God's but what is according to this Testimony which is the Word and Declaration of the Minde of the living God Rom. 6.25 26. Eph. 3.3 9. and called his Decree not to be doubted or waved from by any Suggestion of other secret Purposes or by feigned pretences of other meanings as if it were the Word of a Man that spake by guess or probabilities or according to appearances but to be believed and received as the word of the Almighty all-knowing God of Truth wherein the very mystery of his Will is opened to us Wherefore it becomes us neither to imagine our selves nor receive of others nor pry into any Purposes as if Purposes of God that are not declared in and according to the Testimony of Christ
spiritual Man 1 Cor. 15.45 49. that they may bear his Image So that all Mankinde are to be first considered as they have their first being in the first publick Man which at first was blessed and happy CHAP. 10. Of the fall and misery of the first Man and all Mankinde in him and so through him Psal 49.12 Man in honour abideth not he is like the beasts that perish Rom. 5.12 By one man sin entred into the world and death by sin and so death passed on all men for that or in whom all have sinned Scripture declares how this came to pass viz. 1. 1 Jude 6. 2 Pet. 2.4 Joh. 8.44 The Devil or Prince of the fallen Angels who aspiring to be higher left their own place and were cast down he envying the happiness of Man as he abode not in the Truth himself so he thought by Lyes to withdraw Man from it and bring him into the same Perdition with himself he made use of the Serpent the most subtil of all the Beasts of the Field which the Lord God made and by him as his Instrument as he now doth by the most excellent unsanctified wits and seeming holy ones pretending love and good to the Woman as to help her and her husband to a more glorious estate and greater likeness to God than that God made them in So tempting Man to his own aspiring sin he begins with questioning her about the minde of God in his sayings Hath God in saying said or because he said Gen. 3.1 4 4. 2 Cor. 11.3 4 13 14 15. Ye shall not eat of every tree in c Did he so say and intend indeed That ye should not eat at all of that tree may not there be some other meaning in his saying so to draw her from heeding and believing the word or saying of God according to the plain Import of the same and so amusing her thoughts about the sense and then perswade her to a quite contrary sense a trick he hath learn'd seducers to use whence also he is called The great Dragon That old Serpent The Devil and Satan which deceiveth the whole world Rev. 12.9 20.2 2. Man that was so loved and blessed of God and so abundantly furnished with good things and blessedly advanced by him having so plain a word that in minding and believing it he might both have known that other voice to be from a lying Tempter and have put him to flight yet Gen. 2.17 3.2 3 6. Jam. 1.13 14 15. by pondering the strange voice and parleying with the Tempter he neglected the heeding and believing the plain Import of the word given him and so hearkned to and believed the voice of the Tempter and Seducer and being so withdrawn he was inticed and did then look upon the appearing Excellency of the Tree and in looking proceeded to desire it for the conceited knowledge and wisdom pretended to be gotten by it and from desire proceeded to take of it and so handled it and from handling fell to eating of it contrary to the express Charge of his Creator This is the first sin and the beginning of the sinning of man 3. Man stayed not here but did proceed in adding to and compleating this sin to the height and that by hiding themselves from the presence of the Lord a Gen. 3.8 and by intimately blaming his Creator as not having furnished him to come into his presence leaving him naked b Gen. 3.10 Prov. 19.3 and by excusing and hiding his sin when called to account the man putting it off to the woman and intimately to God that gave him the woman the woman putting it off to the Serpent neither confessing faultiness nor asking pardon but leaving it to God's own search c Job 31.33 Gen. 3.3 12 13. so was the first sin finished 4. In this sin thus begun and finished we may discern man's demeanor towards God how evil it was and the exceeding sinfulness of this sin in his forgetfulness unbelief of the good word of God in the plain sayings and import thereof d Gen. 2.16 17. 3.3 a great sin Hosea 4.6 and disesteem of and unthankfulness for the great love of God in his Creation and the many good things bestowed on him e Gen. 1.26 27 28 29. 2.1 16. a great sin Deut. 32.15 2 Tim. 3.2 yea and confederacie with the Devil the Enemy of God and mankinde in hearing believing and obeying his suggestion in the voice of the Serpent f Gen. 3.4 5 6. a great sin 1 Joh. 4.1 5. John 5.43 And yet farther in this sin was Pride Ambition and Robbery in a high degree in conceiting aspiring and assaying to be equal with God which appertained to none but the onely Son of God Phil. 2.6 g Gen. 3.5 a sin of an high Nature Ezek. 28.2 6 9. and disobedience to and rebellion against the plain and express command of the Almighty h Gen. 2.17 3.11 a sin of an high Nature 1 Sam. 15.23 and blasphemy of God in minde tongue and deed in faulting the work and furniture of God about his own Body and assaying by himself to amend it i Gen. 3.7 10. a grievous sin Job 4.17 and unfaithfulness in his publick place both to God that betrusted him and put him in it k Gen. 1.28 2.19 Rom. 5.12 and to those that were to come of him by propagation in whose place he stood and with whom he was betrusted and also to the Creatures given pure and good into his Dominion to rule a great sin Luke 16.12 and herein murther and overthrow both of himself and all his natural posterity both of Soul and Body in dying to die a great murther of many in an high degree l Gen. 2.17 Rom 1.12 18. 1 Cor. 15.21 22. a grievous sin Numb 35 31. and extream vanity and folly in assaying to hide himself and his sin from God to avoid his judgement m Gen 3.8 10 13. a grievous sin Job 31.33 Psal 5.5 To shew how every Precept in ten words was herein gone contrary to and sinned against and all desireable good in the rule of Prayer given us as glorifying God being under his Regiment doing his will resting on him c. was in this transgression cast aside were an easie business and yet this offence so great and manifold doth still appear to be more heynous and sinful if we minde the circumstances in it as against how great glorious and bountiful a God that had made him in his Image furnished him with a world of Creatures exalted him to such a Lordship placed him in a Paradise and vouchsafed intercourse with him This sin was by him in this Paradise committed and against what and how manifold Obligations of Authority Love Benefits Instructions and forewarning given all obliging to Love and Obedience this sin was committed by him that enjoyed the good of them all And against what welfare of himself and
sprung out of the Earth n Psal 85.11 Then he ascended in that very body which died and was raised again and by the Eternal Spirit offered himself a spotless Sacrifice to God and with the Vertue of his own Blood entred the holy of holies and so made peace and obtained Eternal Redemption o Act. 1.9 10 11. Heb. 8.3 4. 10.10 12. 9.12 14. And God also for this hath exalted him p Phil. 2.10 11. and taken up his well-pleasedness in him and set him on his right hand q Mat. 17.5 Heb. 8.1 10.12 and released and given over all Mankinde to him for his dispose and made him Lord of all r Rom. 14.9 Act. 2.34 36. 10.36 and Head of the Church s Col. 1.18 19. and filled him with the immeasurable fulness of the Holy Ghost to preach the Gospel and call sinners and open the eyes of the blinde c. to draw Men to himself that believing on him they might be his Church and he so confer his own Priviledges on them t Isa 42.1 8. 61.1 4. Joh. 1.12 Phil. 2.10 11. Act. 17.30 31. and that he may raise all Men from the first death that he died for them and bring them before him to be judged by him according to the Gospel Rom. 2.16 and 14.9 12. 2 Cor. 5.10 And thus also hath God testified of him and set him forth the Propitiation for the sins of the whole World u 1 John 2.2 for Men to receive Remission of sins through Faith in his Blood and so to bring them in to God w Rom. 3.25 Act. 10.43 26.18 And thus is he perfect in himself the second and last publick Man the Lord from Heaven the spiritual Man the quickning Spirit in whom the Nature of Man is restored and married to the Divine Nature in the person of the Son of God in which is rich Provision of pardon peace wisdom righteousness holiness redemption and eternal life all to be enjoyed in coming in by his call to believe on him x 1 Cor. 15.44 45 46 47. Mat. 22.1 4. Prov. 9.1 6. Col. 2.9 10. 1.28 1 Cor. 1.30 and such a one is the Man Christ God-Man God with us in our Nature for us y Mat. 1.23 glorified with the Father 's own self as the publick Man with the Glory he had with the Father before the World was which for a while he laid aside for our sakes that in his re-assuming it again we believing on him might come to partake of glory with him z Joh. 17.4 5 9. Col. 3.4 And this is an higher business than that Gen. 1.26 27. 2.7 if not as high as that which was unlawfully aspired to by some Angels and the first Man and this is the Christ nor can there be any Election in him or Belief on him but as he is such a one and so to be considered as such a publick Man the new and spiritual Man 3. In the first Creation the first publick Man had all Mankinde in him in his loyns to come naturally by descent from him and so sinned in his sinning according to that account and language Heb. 7.9 10. and so he stood in the room or stead of none and undertook for none but those that were in him and Naturally to descend from him and so Naturally his own and Naturally interessed they in him and he in them and he Naturally obliged to them But in the new Creation the Son of God the Word that was made Flesh and the second publick Man before considered as his work done in his own Body and he in that Body glorified he had none of Mankinde in him none his Friends or Brethren and peculiar Ones in and with him to lay aside such Glory as he had with the Father before the World was to be supernaturally made Flesh as he was and to offer the propitiatory sacrifice as he did no not in him as there must have been according to that language Heb. 7.9 10. if there had been any such in him nor did he interpose to stand in the room and stead and undertake to abase himself and overcome Death and offer the propitiatory Sacrifice for himself or any his peculiar Friends that were in him and loved him but for the first Man and his Natural Race that were not only out of him sinners and enemies to him as he undertook for them but are also found such when he first calleth or beginneth to work on them a Rom. 5.6 8. 1 Pet. 3.18 1 Tim. 1.15 Mat. 9.13 Luk. 5.32 so that his love his undertaking and all his grace and obligations to Men are unspeakable gracious great and free Nor hath he any other to make his seed but such as are first the seed and of the seed of the first Man him 1 Cor. 15.46 49. Jam. 1.18 Eph. 2.4 10. 2 Cor. 5 17. and those that come forth of him and bear his Image are they from among whom and of whom by a spiritual way he brings in to himself and makes them new Creatures 4. In the first Creation 1 Joh 3 5. Phil. 2 6-10 Jer. 50.4 5 6. Joh. 17.4 6 7. Psal 68.18 the first Mans work and business was easie but to dress the Garden order the Creatures and forbear eating of one of the Trees in the Garden and so to keep sin out of the World which yet he did not But in the new Creation the second Man had a great painful and mighty work to do to undergo abasement in shame and suffering to offer an invaluable Sacrifice to take away sin appease wrath make an Atonement overcome Death and the Devil to purchase an Inheritance and receive Spirit in the Man to send forth even to the rebellious that the Lord might dwell among them c. which also he hath faithfully and fully done 5. In the first Creation Gen. 1.1 Psal 33.6 75.3 2 Pet. 3 5-7 10 11 12. Rom. 8. 19 20 21. Rev. 21 1-5 the Heaven and the Earth was made of no pre-existing matter or being onely the Word of the Lord gave the very being thereto but in the new Creation it is of the old Heaven and Earth dissolved melted and overturned and then made new new created to as good and better estate than at the first 6. The old Creation was finished in six dayes Gen. 1. 2.1 2. Exod. 20.11 Isa 65.12 19. 2 Pet. 3 3-15 Rom. 8.19 20 21. each day consisting of evening and morning consisting of twenty four hours and the Rest Sabbath of the Lord on the seventh day But the new Creation is longer before it be finished and brought forth in its full perfection to open view it 's likely as many thousands of yeers as the first was of dayes it being the whole time of the supportation and decaying of the old And such Dissimilitudes is shewn in Scripture to be between the first and now old Creation and
the second and new Creation Secondly Yet notwithstanding there is also a true resemblance in many similitudes between them and that not only in this 1. That they both are the work of one and the same God but also in this 1. Gen. 1.1 2. Psa 33.6 1 Joh. 1.1 2 3 4. Col. 1.15 16-19 That as the first was made by the Word and Spirit of the Lord breathed forth by the Father through the Word that is the Son even so was the second and new Creation also begun and shall be finished 2. Gen. 1.1 26. That as in the first the Heavenly and Earthy Matter was first made and framed before any other particular Creatures and they after by the command and word of the Lord formed and made in and out of them even so the second and new Creation in the counsels and purpose of God and actual consent and Agreement of the Word the Son of God and now also in act by the Word made Flesh the original and first being and that which gives being to all and in and out of which and through which all particulars are formed and made new was first prepared made and formed in the Man Christ in whom the Restauration being made God and Man united in one Person through whom the Holy Spirit proceedeth from the Father and so by the word and command of the Lord the particulars in their order are formed and made new and so Jesus Christ the Son of God and the Son of Man even he himself is called the beginning of the Creation of God a Rev. 3.14 the first-born of every Creature b Col. 1.15 the first-begotten first-born from the dead c Rev. 1.5 Col. 1.18 before Abraham was he is d Joh. 8.56 58. the Root of David e Rev. 22 16. the Alpha and Omega the beginning and the end f Rev. 21 6. yea he that worketh with the Father and whatsoever the Father doth he doth the same John 5.19 23 26 27. he is the beginning and by him are all things 3. That as in the first Creation in respect of particulars to be formed Gen. 1.3 John 1.4 5. 2 Cor. 4.6 God first commanded and formed the Light for his Creatures even so in the new Creation in bringing in particulars the first thing commanded to come forth is Light and this shining in the Face of Christ into the Heart of those he makes new Creatures 4. That as in the first Creation the first publick Man was first made a perfect Man fit for multiplication Gen. 1.28 4.1 2. 5.3 Rom. 5.19 1 Cor. 15.48 and his seed and posterity after to come forth of him one after one by degrees and all in his likeness such as he was when they come forth of him even so in the new Creation the second publick Man is first made perfect and his Seed in a spiritual way and supernaturally to be after brought in to him and that also one after another by degrees h Rom. 16.7 Act. 2.41 47. and all by degrees framed into the likeness of Christ into whom they are brought i Rem 5.17 1 Cor. 15.48 2 Cor. 5.17 Eph. 2.10 5. That as in the first Creation the Man and Woman fell and lost the benefit of all by questioning and letting go the Word of the Lord Gen. 3.16 in hearing and pondering the voice of the Serpent and so in believing the same looked on and beheld the forbidden Fruit and desired it and so took and eat of it even so in the new Creation Men and Women are drawn in to Christ and participation of the benefit thereof by letting go and turning from the delusions of Satan in hearing and minding the voice of Christ in the Gospel and so believing the same that they behold him as discovered therein and so desire him and accept and feed on him k Act. 3.26 26.18 with Iob. 5.26 Isa 53.3 Iob. 11.25 26. 6.54 55 56 57. 6. In the first Creation the deed and offence of the first Man and condemnation of him for it did reach to all Mankinde and was the offence and condemnation of all in him as the publick Man and that so verily and efficaciously that in coming forth Naturally from him they should verily partake of the same and bear his likeness though yet none of the sons of Men could in their own individual persons so partake of and feel the same until and but as and when in a Natural way they come to have their personal beings of him and so come forth from him even so in the new Creation the deed and righteousness of the second Man and his justification as he was the publick Man did reach unto all Men and was so far in that sense on them all to justification of life from the first sentence and escape out of the first death in through him as the second publick Man Rom. 5.12 18 9. 2 Cor. 5.14 15 17 18 19. Phil. 1.10 11. Gal. 3.26 29. and though all shall one day be freed from that first sentence and raised out of that first death by him to acknowledge him Lord to the glory of God yet do or can none of the sons of Men in their own individual persons partake of or enjoy the benefit of that freedom righteousness and justification but as they are brought in to believe that done by him nor of Eternal Life but as they are in that believing spiritually united unto him and so in such a being in him are made new Creatures In which respects as there is such similitude between the first and second Creation and the first and second Man and interests of their seeds in them and what they receive from them Rom. 5.14 so the first Adam was a Type or figure of the second that was to come and so we may say of the natural Tree of Life and so of divers things in the first Creation there was something typical in them the Truth whereof in a superabounding manner is in Christ whence he is called Adam and The Tree of Life The green Olive-Tree The Tree by the Rivers of Waters The true Vine The Fountain of living Waters The Door Heb. 10.1 Col. 2.17 Rom. 16.25 26. 1 Joh. 1.1 2 3. The Way The Rock The Foundation c. not that there were or are no such things naturally in being as appertaining to the old Creation but because the Truth Excellency and Life shadowed out by all these things is found in Christ and enjoyed in enjoying him in the new Creation and we know there is more in the Truth than any shadows could type out and the Gospel hath now more cleerly revealed the same And I hope these things considered that are writ from the beginning of this first part of this Treatise till now and understood and believed as far as they are plainly affirmed in the Scripture here and there in many places written and in
them and extending to some Revelation Demonstration and making known his minde and goodness to them and also dealing with Men from and for God in opening their Eyes and moving their Hearts to turn to God and look to him and be saved and again still dealing with God for Men for patience pardon and means still to be extended to them that so they might come to Repentance and Faith and that he in his Father's way may freely give it to them By which means and in which patience he is striving with Men in opening their Eyes and moving at their Hearts that they might believe and so from the prevalency of his Mediation by vertue of his Oblation he is giving them Faith and Repentance and such a Mediator he is for all Men yea so set to be of his Father and hath himself accepted to perform this Office also and is furnished for it with the vertue of his Oblation and Immeasurable fulness of the Holy Ghost being faithful able and constant in performance and so in respect of his receiving from the Father and so from God dealing with the people calling and making known God's minde being full of Spirit Love and Faithfulness he calls enlightens moves and so strives with all 2 Isa 42 1-7 45.22 49.6 8. 55.5 61.1 2 3. Joh. 1.4 5 7 8 9 10 11. Rom. 2.4 5. as hath been foreshewn a. And whereas men closing their Eyes which he hath opened c. not owning and receiving his reachings and motions which is the sin of the world he yet by vertue of his Blood and Oblation once offered so intercedes with God as to procure such forgiveness that they are not cut off presently for these transgressions but that longer time and patience and more mercies and means be extended towards them and farther strife with his Spirit that they might yet repent believe and be saved A gracious Mediator intimated to us in the Parable of the Vine-dresser Luk. 13.8 9. Lord let it alone this yeer also till I dig about it and dress it and if it bear fruit well if not then after c. If any say This is meant of the Church the Vineyard of the Iews I answer However meant it is spoken of particular Trees therein of some of which our Saviour saith Ye are of this World Joh. 8.23 Joh. 1.29 but it is plain express by Iohn Baptist Behold the Lamb of God which taketh or beareth away the sins of the world In which it appeareth evidently he speaketh of more than the Atonement and Purgation made and so of the sins taken away from before the Face of God at once by that one Oblation of his once offered yea he speaketh of a continued act by vertue of his Oblation in Mediation he taketh that is spoken of a present and continued business he taketh or beareth away the sin of the world that is his Office and his continued work That he is faithful in doing and how he doth it was long before prophesied Isa 53.12 He poured out his soul unto death and he was numbred with transgressors and he bare the sins of many And then speaking of another and farther business done by vertue of the former he faith also And made intercession for the transgressors A little of which we may see fulfilled in Christ's praying for them that crucified him Father forgive them they know not what they do Luk. 23.34 And this Prayer of his was answered yea in as full a sense and farther degree than that of Amos and they so forgiven this great Transgression that they were not presently cut off Amos 7.2 3 4 5 6. Luk. 24.47 Act. 2.38 3.26 5.31 32. but patience and forbearance and more and greater means extended and used towards them yea the Gospel after the Resurrection and Ascension of Christ first preached to them and Remission of sins c. according to Christ his Order so rendered and given to them And many of them did believe and receive the same And in like manner he procured patience and long-suffering for other great Transgressors even for the same gracious end That they might repent 2 Pet. 3.9 Rev. 2.21 2 Pet. 3â—â—5 whence we are willed to account That the long-suffering of the Lord is salvation Yea we are instructed into the knowledge of this Mediation of Christ by the Types of old the Truth of all being fulfilled and found in Christ Heb. 9.28 For Christ was once offered to bear the sins of man and unto them that look for him he shall appear the second time without sin unto salvation It is evident in this place That more is here spoken of and meant than bearing of sins in his Oblation-offering 2 Pet. 2 24. Col. 2.14 Rom. 4.25 Heb. 9.14 1 Ioh. 2.1 Rom. 6.9 for those he bare in his Sufferings and Death and nailed them to his Cross so as he did them all away in his Resurrection and then by the eternal Spirit offered himself a spotless Sacrifice to God in the Heavens nor can there be any more sin so imputed to him or so born by him he is just and can die no more but his bearing sins now is his taking them away and keeping the punishment of them off from us And this was also figured to us in the two Goats one slain for a sin-offering figuring out the Atonement made by the Death of Christ the other a living Goat Levit. 16.9 10 20 21 22. 1 Cor. 15.17 Rom. 4.25 over whom was confess'd all the iniquity of the Children of Israel and he bare them away into a Land of separation where no man dwelt to be charged with them So figuring out the Resurrection of Christ for our Justification and bearing away our sins the forgiveness whereof men perceive and receive in confessing and believing on him and yet a farther bearing away of sins was here typed 1 Joh. 1.7 9. in that it was of sins confessed after the Atonement was made over the live Goat that carried them away c. But I will not urge that but come to that which is more full and plain for this purpose Aaron the High-Priest did bear the names and the Judgement of the Children of Israel Exod. 28.29 30. when he went into the holy place continually and he with his Sons the Priests were to bear the iniquity of the Congregation to make Atonement for them before the Lord Levit. 10.17 and this was besides the Atonement made in the holy of holies once in the yeer And what bearing of iniquity this was may be cleer to us not that the iniquity of the people was imputed to the Priests and confess'd over their heads and they to suffer the judgement and punishment due to the peoples sins and to be offered in Sacrifice for them not so But as skilfull Hebricians say The word signifies and the Greeks translates so to bear and take away yea Numb 18.1 2
his delivering up the Kingdom even to God the Father that God may be All in All and so the Government not Dividical but wholly Divine yet the Kingdom without end So that â—he beginning of this Day is in the entrance or beginning of Christ his coming to Raign and to sit upon the Throne of David his Father and the end of this last and great Day is after the Resurrection and Condemnation of all the wicked when will be the last and utter destruction of Death 26 28. in delivering up the Kingdom to the Father that the Davidâ—cal Regiment may be translated into that which is wholly and altogether Divine And that this Resurrection done by God yet he doing it by the Man Christ as he will in that Day judge all men by him our Saviour Christ himself teacheth speaking of himself as the Son of Man saying Rom. 2.16 Joh. 5.26 27 28. The hour is coming in which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice and shall come forth they that have done good to the resurrection os life and they that have done evil to the resurrection of damnation Agreeable to which is that Confession of Faith That there shall be a resurrection of the dead Act. 24.15 Isa 26.19 1 Thes 4.14 Luk. 14.14 Joh. 5.24 both of the just and the unjust And the Resurrection of those that are by Faith united to Jesus and dying in the Faith sleep in Jesus is called the Resurrection of the Just in which Rewards are to be given them And though both Resurrection of Just and Unjust shall be in this last and great Day yet this Resurrection of the Just being at Christ his coming in the beginning of that great Day and of those that have believed on Christ and suffered with him in the Dayes of his patience who are to live and raign with him in the Davidical Regiment till the wicked be raised out of Death and judged and cast into the lake of fire which is at the end of this last and great Day and of all Time when also the Kingdom is delivered to the Father The Resurrection of the Just is therefore called The first Resurrection Rev. 20.5 6. which work our Saviour affirms to be the will of our Father that he should do and that he will do shewing the Father's will in general he saith This is the Fathers will c. Joh. 6.39 That of all which he hath given me and that is all men into his dispose by vertue of his Oblation I should lose nothing as is before shewn and will be more after he loseth none if any perversly lose himself yet he is to judge him and therefore it is said but should raise it up again at the last day And then speaking of the Father's special will he saith And this is the will of him that sent me That every one which seeth the Son and believeth on him may have everlasting life and I will raise him up at the last day Which he speaks more particularly and emphatically as the first and choice having not proceeded in the other to such-like affirmation for that reason given Joh. 12.47 48. So that this next coming of Christ is first in the beginning of the last Day to raise and cloath with immortality all his Saints which will be done in a moment the same moment he is descending from Heaven that so they meeting him in the Air may come along with him to the next work as is affirmed they shall which next work is also plainly affirmed to be 2. To overthrow all the Powers and Governments of the World that now is that are upon this Earth and so it is said 1 Cor. 15.24 He shall put down all rule and all authority and power The Persons ruling if any of them Saints will be taken into that Company Dan. 7.12 Isa 60.12 and be changed and go with him if not if they at first submit to serve him and his people their lives shall be prolonged though their Dominion be taken away but all the wicked that rebel against him in that Day in which no more space of Repentance given for the the Lord will make a short work on Earth shall be destroyed and burned up Rom. 9.28 Mal. 4.1 Jude 14 15. 2 Pet. 3.7 10. 2 Thes 1.8 9. Isa 9.4 5 6. 11.4 Psa 72.4 both Root and Branch whence it is called The Day of Judgement Destruction and Perdition of ungodly Men which shall be with flaming Fire For this Battel shall not be like the former Battels on the Earth with confused noise and Garments rolled in Blood but with burning and fewel of Fire for he shall smite the Earth with the Rod of his Mouth and with the Breath of his Lips shall he slay the wicked and break in pieces the Oppressor He hath long left the Government of the Affairs of this World in the Hands of Men Psal 82.1 2 3 4. 2.10 11. whom he called Mighty or Gods and bade them judge righteously that it might be well with them in their account to him and he hath often changed the Governours and manner of Government and waired with patience to see if they would do right but he seeth That though he hath given them warning Psal 75.4 5 6 7. Psal 82.5 yet â— they know not neither will they understand they walk on in darkness all the foundations or Governments of the earth are out of course even moved Isa 59.16 50.2 3. And he saw and there was no man no Government he wondred there was no intercessor therefore his Arm brought salvation to him and his righteousness it sustained him and he dried up the Sea c. And saith to them Ye shall die like men and fall like one of the Princes And then it follows Arise O God Psal 82.7 8. Isa 13.6 7.11 judge the earth for thou shalt inherit all Nations And thus will he come in that Day to destroy sinners out of the Land to punish the World for their evil and the wicked for their iniquity and to cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease and lay low the haughtiness of the terrible yea Isa 13.13 Heb. 12.26 Hag. 2.6 Zach. 13 2-6 Rev. 19.20 1 Cor. 13.8 9-12 Jer. 31.34 2 Thes 1.7 8 Mat. 13.41 so great will this shaking be that he will not only shake the Earth but the Heavens also in that Day not only in destroying the false Prophet and so all Idolatrous Congregations with all their forms of Church-Government but also in causing to cease all the outward Government and Ordinances suitable to the Church of Christ in this frail state at that Day and no till that Day shall all these things be done And though he did the first work himself alone yet in this work for these things he comes not only with his Holy Angels but also with all his Saints joyning with him in this work as is said Let their
Saints but the Beast and the false Prophet will stand against him also but he comes not then to suffer but to raign and so all the Enemies will be overthrown he coming to the ends aforesaid I have in this but made a homely Comparison of the proceedings with Jews and Gentiles specially Christians how it was with the Jews is plainly declared through the Scriptures how it was with the Gentiles the Christians in the first ages is seen in the Scriptures and for the following ages it is there also propheted and for other knowledge I leave to them that are acquainted with Histories how it is now let such as have understanding judge And I suppose this will come neer to one with the former accounts of those godly learned Men and manifest that first said That the coming of our Lord is nigh at hand the call of the Jews being at the doors the fulness of Gentiles neer come and the personal coming of Christ not long after he shews us daily our lives here cannot be long and he is in his works hastening his coming and all to move us to haste to it and be always ready and waiting for it Behold he cometh CHAP. 20. Some Application of this Branch of the Testimony of Christ concerning his coming again in such manner to such ends c. THe knowledge and mindefulness of this personal coming again of Jesus Christ in such manner and for such ends as is shewn and his coming so fast and nigh-approaching is profitable to warn teach and stir us up first to avoid and resist the evils and keep from the danger of seducing and evil Spirits that labour to with-draw and turn many from the Faith of his coming by their subtil Reasonings and Arguments viz. 1. Those Scoffers that say Where is the promise of his coming for since the Fathers fell asleep 2 Pet. 3 6. all things continue as they were from the beginning of the Creation Where is this new Heaven and new Earth This Restauration of all things This raigning of Christ and his Saints you say was promised to the Fathers And you have long called these the last dayes and yet no such things appears you are beguiled with some Enthusiasm or Millenary-Opinion you wait for a Fancy one Generation goeth and another cometh all things continue as they were and will so do We in belief of the Testimony of Christ 2 Pet. 3.5.7 may know these Men are willingly ignorant c. we may admire God's Patience to such in forbearing them that they might repent before his coming and his patience towards us that have not done all we might to gain Men in to Repentance that we might renew our Diligence and we know a Day is not in God's account as it is with Men and that there are some things still to be performed that must be done before his coming and the being tried with such Scoffers is one thing in which we see the Truth of his Word that foretold it and the fulfilling of it and the hastening and nighness of his coming to stir us to desire it c. 2. 2 Thes 2.2 Those that go about to shake the minde of Believers by saying the Day of Christ is at hand now presently or within one hour or a day or ten dayes or a month or two months or such a day week or month within this yeer or before a yeer be out and thereto pretend a spiritual Revelation or some word or some thing as out of the writings of the Apostles for though that day be much nigher at hand than when the Apostles gave that warning and though that falling away and the Revelation of the Man of sin be now come to pass yet all there spoken is not yet fulfilled And so we know by the same Rule That all the Horns or ten Kingdoms do not yet hate the Whore and though there is a good beginning and in some places her Flesh eaten yet not by them all nor have they yet burnt her with Fire nor are the Jews yet come into their own Land yea Euphrates is not yet dried up all which must first be So that it is not so at hand as to be this day or week but he is coming apace and hastening in doing these things and our lives short which is enough to move us to be alwayes ready waiting and looking for his coming 3. Those that say The Resurrection is past already The Lord is come to them 2 Tim. 2.18 and they are risen and do raign and Heaven is in them and they are in Heaven enjoying the new Heaven and the new Earth already and are above all Ordinances needing the use of none of them We in belief of the Testimony of Christ do know That when the Lord comes he comes and appears to all at once and so when the Just are raised they are raised all at once and all Saints made immortal at once and go with the Lord to the overthrow of the wicked then enjoy the new Heaven and the new Earth and raign together neither marrying nor giving in marriage 1 Cor. 4.8.2 Thes 4.14 15. Heb. 11.40 nor living in such condition so that whatever they fancy of their being risen and living and raigning in such manner they are deceived for if it were so indeed we should not be left behinde or be as they say we are still in the dark but we should see and raign also with them if they did so in Truth for no one shall prevent another in this or any Saints be perfect without their Fellows 4. Those that put off all the coming of Christ 2 Cor. 11.2 3 â— 2 Pet. 3.18 19. 1 Ioh. 2.22 Prov. 30.13 into a coming in the Spirit and say We must wait indeed for a coming of Christ but it is a coming in the Spirit and That it is but a fleshly Faith to believe in Christ as come in the Flesh but the spiritual believing is to believe in him as come in the Spirit and so enjoying him he is come indeed and then such live above Faith Some such as these are intimated in the Apostles times though the Spirit of Antichrist did but begin then to work But we that believe the Testimony of Jesus Christ do know That Jesus that very Man is The Christ and That his very being come in the Flesh and that he hath done therein and thereby is the Foundation of our Faith and Hope and the way and door of our approach to God and that through which all Mercies are extended yea even the Spirit it self yea this it is which the Holy Ghost whose work it is glorifieth to the Heart and so enables to believe in Christ and unites and frames to him thereby and so to confess him come in the Flesh which none can do but by the Holy Spirit which is Christ his sending Spirit and so coming to them and dwelling in them by Spirit in which he was never absent from
sins and delivery from death and truth in receit of and enjoyment of true righteousness peace quickning purity heavenly riches came by Jesus Christ even in all times past and so now more fully and cleerly doth so as though he came after John yet he is preserred before him yea he was before him so as now he is come John and all the residue of Believers then and since even we of his fulness have received and Grace for Grace for the Grace of God in Christ by vertue of his Sacrifice which God hath graciously accepted of him for us we receive the Grace of Faith to believe and therein remission of sins and so Grace for Grace yea this and so one to make us meet to receive another and that to make us meet to receive more still and so Grace for Grace plentifully one heaped upon another Tit. 3.3 4 5 6 7. Col. 1.12 13. Joh. 1.15 16 17. Act. 26.18 yea as Moses had a Law of Works to nurture the people towards Grace so we a Doctrine of Grace and Law of Grace to teach and lead people to partake of Grace 4. That this Jesus Christ is the Lamb of God the sin-offering and the true passover which by vertue of his sacrifice mediating taketh or beareth away the sin of the world Job 1.29 36. Col. 2.14 15. Eph. 2.12 13 16 17. Rom. 5.18 that by his own death and sacrifice offered takes and now hath taken sin out of the way removed the contradictions that were in the mid-way between God and the world of Mankinde and made peace that it may be preached to them and that by vertue of his blood and sacrifice Isa 53.12 1 Tim. 2.4 Rom. 2.4 Rom. 3.24 25 26. 1 Joh. 3.2 Gen. 22.18 Act. 10.43 Rom. 4.5 Mat. 3.2 11. hath fulness fitness authority and readiness to take sin out of the consciences and nature of Men and by his Mediation procures forbearance patience and mercies to sinners to lead them to repentance being he and onely he set forth for that end the propitiation for the sins of the world in whom there is blessing for all Nations and that by spiritual application of his Blood he doth so take sin away from all that in believing come to him for it and that he is neer at hand to set up his spiritual Kingdom the fore-runner of his Davidical Kingdom 5. That the Father loveth the Son and hath given all things into his hands Joh. 3.34 35 36. and immeasurably filled him with the Spirit so that whoever believeth in him hath everlasting life and be that believeth not on him the wrath of God abideth on him This Doctrine was John filled with to teach And with this Doctrine he was to throw down the Momtains exalt the Valleys Joh. 14.18 29 33. Mat. 3. Mar. 1. Luk. 3. cry down all Flesh and exalt the Word of the Lord and so to call Men to Repentance and to Faith in Christ and so to newness of life assuring them that Christ would baptize them with the holy Ghost and as a witness of the Truth of this Doctrine and that Christ was at hand and shortly to be manifested to Israel he did baptize with water unto repentance and so discipled all that came to him and refused it not Yet did he not in the beginning of his Ministration point out which of all the Sons of Men was that Man that is the Christ so he shewed not which was the Person of our Lord Jesus Christ till he was especially fitted and directed and commissionated for that also by the direction of the holy Spirit by communication with Jesus Christ himself Joh. 1.33 34. Mat. 3.13 17. Mar. 1.9 10.11 Luk. 3.21 22. and seeing the Spirit of God descending like a Dove and lighting on him and hearing the voice of the Father from heaven saying This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased And so was he furnished to know and declare the person of Christ as distinct from all others and who he was And then he did most plainly point out the Man Jesus Joh. 1.29 35 36. 3.30 36. the Son of the Virgin with confession that not himself and so no other Man but that very Man Jesus was the He the Christ the Lamb of God the King of Israel the Bridegroom the Son of God he even this very Jesus he pointed to and affirmed to the be very he and so exhorted his Hearers to behold him even Jesus and to follow him cleave to him and exalt him And in this his Ministration he was greater than all the Prophets that were before him Mat. 11.10 11. though less than any of his Lord's first Witnesses of his Resurrection that were to come after him and although in the exercise of his Ministration he was but for the House of Israel who if they had received him as he came in the Spirit and Power of Elias they would then have received Jesus Christ also and so they might have enjoyed the Gospel of the Kingdom and have continued in their own Land till his coming again to raign and then John Baptist had been all the Elias they should have needed and the coming of Elias mentioned Mal. 4. it would have been needful onely for the ten Tribes of Israel formerly cast off but they refusing came to be cast off also and so its needful for them And in this Ministration Mat. 11.13 14 15. 17.11 12. 23.37 according to this Revelation all the former helps in and under all the former Revelations and Ministrations still remained and all for the good of Men specially the house of Israel CHAP. 7. Of the seventh Revelation and the last that shall be of Christ till his own return and personal and visible appearing THe next Revelation of Jesus Christ and the last that is to be carried an end for usefulness by teaching and use of such outward Ordinances as now even until his personal appearance when all such means shall cease and the eternal Sabbath be Isa 42.1 61.1 2 3 4. Joh. 12.49 50. Heb. 1.1 2. 2.4 and this Revelation was by the Father to the Son even to the Man Jesus Christ his Elect upon whom he hath put his Spirit and by Jesus Christ to his Disciples God by his divine power bearing witness thereto and confirming the same and this Revelation by Jesus Christ was of the same things fore-revealed to and by the Prophets but now more fully and cleerly manifested with the mystery more abundantly opened and this his Revelation was in a threefold manner or by three distinct wayes or means 1. By manifestation of himself and all that appertained to him to do in his first coming by demonstrating the same in the very act visibly c. 2. By his personal and bodily Ministration in a vocal and audible teaching the Gospel and the Testimony of himself in the Prophets and explicating it 3. By pouring on his witnesses and
died and rose again and so that on his Ascension he received in that personal Body of his the immeasurable fulness of the Holy Ghost to send forth and then and not till then but even then he did send forth the Holy Ghost upon his first Witnesses with all these his spiritual gifts Eph. 4.7 8 11 12. and this is evident in the Apostles fore-inference and in the Prophesie of it and in the testified performance of it and in this express Affirmation As for outward Offices for Order in Churches for teaching and leading in the Administration of Outward Ordinances they were before according to God's Direction both for Temples Synagogues and Families as well as those that follow for their time among these as Elders or Bishops and Deacons which are to be chosen by the Church which is to follow Christ in cnusing whom he hath fitted and not enjoyning him to follow them in fitting whom they have chosen or else to allow him no Ministers in his Church but of these after in fit place 2. That these gifts Luk. 24.48 bear not the names of ordinary Officers in the outward polity of the Church but the names of the Offices and Business of the first Witnesses of Christ Act. 26.18 which were to preach him to bring in such as were no Church that they might be a Church and of the Church Act. 24.21 22 23. and then to edifie the Church and so a true Church in being which was before and while as yet there was no such outward ordinary Officers for the outward polity thereof ordained therein they being ordained in the Churches some time after the Churches were congregated and in being And so we finde Luk. 6.13 That of the Disciples immediately called by Jesus Christ himself that after they were come to and followed him as Disciples he then called them to him and first of them he chose twelve whom he named Apostles Luk. 10.1 17. whom he sent forth to witness of him and preach him and also that after that he appointed other seventy and sent them to go before his face which could be no less then to evangelize yea Mat. 5.14 15 16. all his Disciples he appointed to be a Light to the World and to let their Light shine forth in Word and Conversation so preaching him yet with these gifts fitting for the great business that was to be done were they not yet endued nor could be Joh. 16.7 Luk. 24.49 Act. 1.4 5. 2.1 33. till Christ had suffered and ascended and so were to go forth where Christ was not named c. till after Christ his Ascension they were by his pouring forth the Holy Ghost on them indued with power from on high and by this and their exercise and allegations of Scripture in their Ministery it appeareth that the first primary and choice gift was the gift of Apostle 1 Cor. 12.28 put in this his first and by himself immediately gathered Church and this appeareth to be such a spiritual Manifestation Isa 52.15 Rom 15.18 19 20 21. Light Knowledge and Gift for teaching Christ with such spiritual power and efficacy as apted and enabled them to preach Christ where and to those he was not before known to be The Christ 2 Cor. 3.10 11. 2 Cor. 9.2 2 Cor. 3.1 2 3. 13.3 4 5. or else where he was not so much as named and so known at all and so not to be the first instrumental layers of the Foundation and such brought in by them were the seal of their Apostleship And in this gift of Apostle this is also to be farther noted That in it all the rest were included so as such as had the gift of Apostle had therein all the other following gifts as of Prophet Evangelist Pastor and Teacher though others that had these had not all that was in the gift of an Apostle The next gifts here mentioned are Prophets and Evangelists first here naming Prophet and then Evangelist because of the double efficacy for convincement and drawing on to believe else they may be called by one or either of the Names and so the Apostle elsewhere includes Evangelest in that Phrase of Prophet 1 Cor. 12.28 saying secondarily Prophets by which with the phrase Evangelist used here and by their Ministration and the effects we may discern what these gifts or this double gift is Prophesie here not to be limited to that gift of fore-telling some events to come which was more before then since the Ascension of Christ Act. 21.10 11. such as that of Agabus but it was such a spiritual Manifestation Light Knowledge and Gift for teaching Christ with such power and efficacy as apted and enabled them so to preach Christ as might tend to the convincement of unbelievers Joh. 16.7 8 9 10 11. 1 Cor. 14.24 25. and the throwing down all their strong holds convincing them of the fulness of all Foundation for trusting in or doors of approach to God besides Christ that he is the onely Foundation door of approach to God which was done in prophesying and in this respect the gift for this called the gift of Prophet Rom. 10.15 Act. 11.20 21. and then the drawing in the convinced to believe in Christ and so turn to the Lord which is the proper effect of evangelizing and so the Apostle saith The Word was evangelized 1 Pet. 1.21 2 25. to those that were brought in to believe whence the gift is called Evangelist most frequently though also both are called Prophet And this is also to be here noted That Evangelist includeth Pastor and Teacher so as those that had the gift of Evangelist had therein also the gift of Pastor and Teacher though all that had the gift of Pastor and Teacher had not also all that was in the gift of Prophet and Evangelist And so The next gift here mentioned is And some Pastors Teachers he saith not as before of the other And some Pastors and some Teachers as if these were several and distinct and different gifts as the other though in this as in the former there may be a various distribution in the measure to some more than to others 1 Cor. 12.4 5 8. yet feeding and teaching is in them all yea feeding is by teaching and right teaching the way of right ruling and feeding and so as the Apostle includes both these Pastor and Teacher in one word saying thirdly Teachers yea Pastors are in and with these gifts so as Apostles are Pastors and Prophets and Evangelists are Pastors and Teachers are Pastors and all of them are Teachers 1 Cor. 12.28 yet all according to their several gifts and the measure of Faith given unto them and so all of them together Stewards and Shepherds and in this is seen something of the spiritual Kingdom of Christ in this World as was also typed in the temporal Kingdom of David in which was King Priest Prophets and
Thes 5.12 13. 1 Tim. 5.17 18. Heb. 3.7 17. Col. 4.17 and submit to them in all lawful outward Order for Church-Affairs and as they labour in the Word and Doctrine to count them worthy double honor for their Works sake that so they may more cheerfully and fully perform their Ministery and to reprove and warn them if they neglect their Ministration so that these Officers are for the help commodity and service of the Church and so not for bondage but enlargement 3. 1 Tim. 3.2 3 5 8 12. Tit. 1.7 8 9. Act. 6.3 That the Men that are to be chosen into these Offices must be of their Brethren of the holy place such as are known to be faithful and spiritually gifted holding the Mystery of Faith even the faithful Word as it hath been taught from the Apostles in a pure Conscience That they be not double-tongued not self-willed not soon angry not covetous not greedy of filthy lucre not given to Wine no fighters or brawlers but sound in the Faith and also sober vigilant holy temperate and apt to teach each Man having but one Wife and ruling well his own House that they also be not accused of Riot c. These even such of the true Sanctuary are by them of the true Sanctuary to be chosen for this Ministration that the Church may be edified well ordered and governed as is at large shewn in the Epistles to Timothy and to Titus 4. That for the Officers to be chosen and set in Office they are of two sorts called by several Names 1. Elders or Bishops 2. Deacons 1. The first is Elder or Bishop for both these signifie one and the same Office as is beforesaid and he is to be such a one as aforesaid as for his skill in divers Tongues and Philosophy and Liberal Sciences and Arts so much extolled in the Wisdom of the Gentiles or his Collegiate Education in the Worlds Universities nothing is mentioned or required in that but onely that he be not a Novice or one newly come to the Faith that is not spiritually learned and established in the Faith lest he fall into the Condemnation of the Devil not content with his place to abide speaking according to the proportion of the Faith dealt out to him 1 Tim. 3.6 Jude 6. Col. 2.18 2 Pet. 3.16 1 Pet. 5.1 2 c. 1 Tim. 3.1 2 3 7. Tit. 1.6 7 8.9 but puft up with his Function and Office or with that humane Learning if he have it intrude into things he hath not seen and pervert the Scriptures to maintain it and Lord it over his Brethren But that he be one that is found in the Faith and endued with spitual Gifts in fore-exercise whereof he is known to hold fast the faithful Word and to be apt to teach and so also to be such a one as is foresaid and his Office is especially to oversee and watch over the Souls 1 Tim. 3.15 16. 2 Tim. 2.15 3.14 17. Heb. 13.17 1 Tim. 4.6 12. and spiritual state of his Brethren and so to divide in his Doctrine to every one sutably that they may grow in Faith and Love the Fruits thereof as one that is to give account of the same to God In all which also they are with their Doctrine in their Life to be a pattern and example to their Brethren and they also are to counsel Act. 6.2 7. 8.12 1 Cor. 1.14 17. 1 Tim. 3.15 Tit. 1.9 Jam. 5.5 14. direct and help in the order of the Assemblies and sometime also themselves to baptize and to order the times of Assemblings and manner of proceedings in the Assemblies and to lead in the Administration of the Supper and give counsel in ordering distribution of Church-Almes and to be sent for to pray when any is sick And in respect of Church-Officers by an outward Ecclesiastical choice Act. 15.4 6. 1 Pet. 5.1 2 Cor. 4.5 Heb. 13.7 these may be said to be the first-born of the strength of the Church the first chosen the first that we read of by their Names yea the Apostles were also Elders and being such and so demeaning themselves as the Servants of the Church in their Ministration as the Apostles and prime Christian Elders did They are blessedly useful and profitable and meet to be highly esteemed submitted to and followed But if any of these under the pretence of this Office should assume to themselves to be the onely Pastors and Teachers and so to be the Church and God's Clergy or Inheritance the onely Priests and Levites and that none is to presume to preach the Word and to be Pastors and Teachers but such as have the Authority from them and come into their Order And that Believers must understand the Word according to their Interpretation submit themselves to their Injunctions and Traditions and so Lord it over their Brethren and become Lords of their Faith and Lords of their Gifts so assuming the place or bed of Christ himself Then the Church may say of them Gen. 49.3 4. as Jacob of his Son Reuben Reuben thou art my first-born my might and the beginning of my strength the excellency of dignity and the excellency of power unstable as water thoushalt not excel because thou wentest up to thy Father's bed c. yea this would come neer to and make way for that sin of the Man of sin 2 Thes 2.4 and so be the in-let and way-making for the outward Court to be left into the hands of the Gentiles Rev. 9.1 2 3. 11.2 2 Cor. 1.24 4.5 12. 10.18 11.2 1 Pet. 5.3 and to have the Holy City trodden under foot Whence the Apostles abhorred all such lording it over their Brethren and so did all the prime Elders and warned following Elders to beware of the same and when such an evil time comes the witnesses in the true Sanctuary Rev. 11.1 3 4. may go on in the strength of the Lord without measuring or fighting for the outward Court and letting it be where it is and chuse and take as neâ—â— is such of themselves and in such manner as they may safely and lawfully have and so prosper though in disgrace and persecution 2 The second sort are called Deacons Act. 6. 7 8.5 2. 1 Tim. 3.13 Act. 13.15 15.4 1 Cor. 1.14 whose Office is especially to oversee the necessities of the poor and exhort their Brethren to a merciful relieving of them and these to receive and faithfully and wisely to dispense the benevolence of the Church And these were first ordained upon a necessity of the prime Elders lest they who before had done it should by continuing that business be hindred from attending the Ministration of the Word and Prayer and these Deacons were also to help the Elders in Ministration and to assist in preaching and baptizing 1 Tim. 3.9 10. and also in breaking bread as is seen in the Acts and Timothy and these
his own Will and so in respect of this wise and heavenly Order in his Counsel for the manner and way of his Purpose taking effect we shall finde different effects and different sorts of Men also on whom it hath different effects that is to say First for the manner and way of his Purpose taking effect on Men for their good it is by discovery of his Love to Mankinde to sinners enemies in discovering his Grace in and through his Son that died for sinners Isa 45.21 22. 55.1 4 6. and in that Discovery in some measure opening their blinde eyes or understanding to see or understand his graciousness and so calling and moving them to behold what he discovereth and hear what he saith assuring them that in beholding him as discovered and as understanding is given them to discern Joh. 25.3 Prov. 1.22 23. Joh. 1.9 5.25.34 and so attending him he will save them and so bring them in to believe and so out of darkness into his marvellous light and this the first proceed for his Purpose to take place for saving Men out of their sinfulness and according to his Purpose he proceeds so far with all Men in some measure at one season or other Secondly When he hath so far proceeded with Men in discovery of his graciousness through Christ and so far opened their eyes or understanding that they begin to discern and he calls or moves them to behold and turn then such as in hearing do hear and in seeing do see and in that motion and strength of his extended in this call do according as by that enabled turn and believe he will save enlive renew and change Isa 45.22 Joh. 5.25 2 Cor. 3.18 Rom. 5.8 10. 1 Pet. 2.6 7. Phil. 3.7 8. Psa 73.23 24 25. Col. 3.11 2 Thes 2.13 14. 1 Pet. 1 2. Eph. 1.11 Rom. 9.11 and farther enlighten and confirm in Faith and Confidence and so enamour them more with Christ and he shall appear and become more precious to their Hearts so as for the well-pleasedness they finde in him they count all things loss for Christ and are willing to be deprived of them to win him he being all in all to them And through the Grace thus believed and the Sanctification of the Spirit he chuseth them into Union and Fellowship with Christ and so to Conformity to him and to Eternal Salvation this being the Order of his work who worketh all things according to the Counsel of his own will we may be sure such was his Counsel for the manner of his purpose taking effect or standing according to the Election of Grace But such Joh. 3.19 20 21 1 Pet. 2.7 8. Mat. 13.11 15. Act. 28.26 27. Luk. 2.34 Isa 8.14 as when this light cometh and Grace therein extended so as light and hearing is given and heart moved do not then in hearing hear and in seeing see but take offence because of some discovery of evil and reproof and condemnation of something by them highly esteemed and dearly beloved which reproof this Light and Grace worketh in its convincements and so do hard en their hearts close their eyes shun the light love darkness rather being unperswadeable and so willingly disobedient and refuse to turn at his reproof these he gives up to blindness and hardness so as the more brightly the gracious minde of God in Christ is discovered the more such stumble and take offence of which we have a notable example Joh. 6.27 28 60 66. Rom. 11.23 Jer. 6.16 17 30. Ezek. 24.13 14. Prov. 1.24 32. Rom. 1.21.23 28. 1 Pet. 2 7 8. John 6. And this being the manner of God's working yea so as if by his chastisements for such follies and his renewed strifes they are not humbled to return but persist in their former willing rebellion he reprobateth them to Eternal Damnation we may be sure such was his Counsel in the Order of his Purpose and so we see two divers and contrary effects of the Purpose made known Thirdly For the different sorts of Men under different considerations that were according to this wise and holy order in the Counsel of God's will the objects on whom the several effects of his purpose made known should take place they appear to be the Sons of Adam he and his natural Race diversly considered and not in one and the same consideration but in respect of the diversity of effects diversly considered either simply as such or else though such yet under another consideration and that either as better then such simply considered or as worse then such onely 1. For his Purpose of finding out a ransome making an Atonement preparing a Sacrifice and accepting it so as to remove the enmity that was in the mid-way 1 Tim. 2.6 2 Cor. 5.14 Rom. 5.6 8. 1 Pet. 3.18 Isa 53.5 6. 1 Cor. 15.3 Gal. 1.4 and opening a door for Mankinde to come in to him the objects or subjects of this Purpose and those for whom it is efficacious with God so as he hath given all into the dispose of the Sacrificer are Adam and all his natural Race as fallen as sinners ungodly enemies to God simply as such and in no better or worse consideration but as such men all men sinful unjust and ungodly men And so for our sins he suffered 2. For his purpose of discovery and making known his Grace and Goodness through Christ in and by means extended and the efficacy thereof for opening the eyes of the blinde and the ears of the deaf and moving at their hearts and so calling them and striving with them affording such help to them that they might turn at his reproof and so believe and live The objects or subjects of this purpose and those on whom these effects so far shall be produced are Adam and all his natural Race even all Mankinde as in sin ignorance and bondage c. yet these in some better consideration then meerly as Adam's sons and fallen in him under the power of the Law and Sin and Death and the Devil namely considered as a Ransom is given 1 Tim. 2.6 7. Psa 68.18 Isa 42.1 2 7 8. 61.1 2 3. 2 Cor. 5.14 15 19 20 21. 1 Tim. 1.15 a Sacrifice offered Peace made and Redemption wrought for them though not yet applied to them nor they knowing or enjoying any of the choice benefits thereof for Jesus Christ by vertue of his Oblation being ascended hath received Spirit in the Man and for Men with Power and Authority to preach the Gospel and extend Gifts even to the Rebellious Psa 96.28 Rom. 5.18 Joh. 6.51 Eccles 9.4 that the Lord God might dwell among them And on this ground they are called and in this respect also they are said To be written in the Book of Life though not yet written among the Righteous And while they remain such and no worse then such there is yet hope for them 3. For his Purpose of Election to Union and Fellowship
Mediator between God and Men 1 Tim. 2.5 Isa 43.1 8 55.4 5 61.1 2 3 1 Joh. 2.1 Heb. 7.25 9.15 19 the chief and Prime Caller of Men to come to God by him and the special Advocate and Intercessor for all that come to God by him and so the chief Priest Prophet and King Heb. 5 7 8 9 10. 3. That by the means he useth Joh. 3.17 1 Tim. 1.15 Isa 53.10 11 55.5 Joh. 12.26 17 24 Psa 68.18 19 20 24 Rom. 2.16 and Spirit he sendeth forth as it is in earnest to all and hath a sufficiency in it that they might be saved so he shall see his Seed many shall thereby run in to him and so come to God by him and shall be blessed in him and inherit with him and they that persist in willing rebelling against him when by the means he useth they might come in to him and will not he shall judge also justly 4. That he shall have the Kingdom in the new Heaven and new Earth 1 Chron. 17.9 14 Psa 2.6 9 72 Dan 7.13 14 27 Luke 1.32 33 and shall sit on the Throne of David raigning in Jerusalem and over all the Nations under the whole Heaven and all his Seed even all that have believed on him and lived to him in the days of his Grace and Patience shall then have the Kingdom and raign with him and all his Enemies shall be destroyed 5. Isa 52.13 14 15 53.10 11 12 That to bring all this about in making it known and extending Divine Power in giâ—â—â—g forth his Knowledge to bring Men in to Christ and so to God by him that they might not perish but become his Seed and have Eternal Life and so he may see his Seed Isa 45.23 24 Phil. 2.10 11 Joh. 12.32 and of the travel of his Soul and be glorified and satisfied according to that promised him and is dayly fufilling and will be openly and manifestly to all when all shall come before him and confess him Lord to the glory of God Mat. 25.31 46 2 Thes 1.8 9 10 and he gives the Kingdom to all those that believed on him in the Day of Grace whom by his Knowledge he justified and then shall be admired in them and be glorified also in his equitable and righteous judgement on them that in the Day of Grace refused to believe on him by the means he used and so shall see the travel of his Soul and the excellency and acceptableness of his sufferings and Sacrifice with God in both Isa 45.22 Ezek 33.11 Prov. 9.12 to the Glory of God his Will and Pleasure all the dayes of his Patience being that by the means he useth Men should turn to him and live yea rather rest that though he will have his Glory on the scorners and not suffer loss to himself and that all this may be by this Knowledge of him and his Divine Power therein and so he have a numerous Seed and Refusers be altogether excuseless He in his Purpose and choice of the Man Christ did therein also purpose and chuse him Exod. 23.21 with 1 Cor. 10.9 Heb. 1.3 Isa 55.4 5. 1 Pet. 1.21 Joh. 14 15 16 17 and according to his purpose hath put his Name in and upon him to declare and make it known in by and through him and for that cause to make him known to cause him to be lifted up and displayed and in that discovery of him to glorifie him that Men might behold him and in beholding believe in him and so come in to him and to God by him and so be of his Seed and have Eternal Life and for understanding this we may briefly view three things in this 1. Exod. 6.2 3 4 What the Name of God is and that by his own Declaration appears to be himself and his memorial Rev. 1.4 Act. 17.24 25 Psa 105.8 9 10 Exod. 3.6 14 15 Exod. 34.6 Psa 145.8 9 Exod. 34.7 Joh 21.14 17 Psal 81.11 12 Mat. 24.37 38 Pro. 1.24 Ezek. 24.13 Joh. 5.40 Deut. 5.9 Psal 109.2 3 4 Ezek 18.2 20 31 32 Prov. 8.30 Psa 89.8 Gen. 17.1 Psal 66.7 Isa 45.21 22 Psal 9.9 10 Jer. 9.24 or the appearance of him in his Titles Word Works and so he is Jehovah he that is that was that is to come that hath his being of himself and giveth being to all things and to his Word The God of Abraham The God of Isaac and The God of Jacob with whom he made the everlasting Covenant This his Name for ever and his Memorial to all Generations and so The Lord The Lord God merciful and gracious long-suffering abundant in goodness and Truth great in mercy good to all and his tender mercies over all his Works keeping mercy for thousands forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin and that will by no means cleer the guilty that is such as refuse and rebel against this mercy and goodness when in the means tendered to them and so will not come into him for Life will none of him and his wayes but visiting the iniquity of the Fathers upon their Children and upon the Childrens children unto the third and to the fourth generation explicated Exod. 20.5 upon them that hate me that hate me that am so gracious and merciful and so reward me with evil for good and hatred for love on such and no other but such as so hate him will he execute sore punishment He is the Lord God of Hosts All-sufficient that ruleth by his power for ever a just God a Saviour and there is none besides him that calls all the ends of the Earth to look to him and be saved This and much more abundantly explained in many places of the Holy Scriptue is the Name of God which is so excellent glorious and gracious that they that know his Name will put their trust in him and are allowed therein to rejoyce 2. That this his Name even Himself Joh. 14.9 10 1.18 1 Cor. 10.9 Mat. 3.1 Isa 55.4 Exod. 23.21 Isa 7.14 Mat. 1.23 Isa 9.6 Jer. 23.6 Tit. 2.13 Rom. 9.5 1 Joh. 4.14 and his Memorial he hath put in and upon his Son that is The Man Christ he is The Angel that Israel tempted in the Wilderness the Messenger of the Covenant in whom his Name is and he is and is called so that he and his Name is Emmanuel that is God with us in our Nature and for us Wonderful Counsellor the mighty God the everlasting Father the Prince of Peace Jehovah our righteousness the mighty God and our Saviour Jesus Christ God over all blessed for ever The Saviour of the World Joh. 4.42 God's Salvation to the ends of the earth Isa 45.22 Phil. 2.7 10 Col. 1 28 Col. 2.9 10 Joh. 1.4 1 Job 5.10 11 Col. 2.3 Isa 42.1 61.1 2 3 4 2 Cor. 3.18 4.6 Isa 55.4 5 Joh. 4.10 Isa 65.1 2 Cor. 3.3 4 Heb. 1.3 Isa 49.6 Act. 1.3.47
Christ and Christ faithful in performance of the same 2 Tim. 2.11 If we be dead with him he saith not If we were dead for him to die for us or as dead in his dying for us having in his sufferings 2 Cor. 5.14 19 20 21. as in the publick Man suffered the sentence of death in account for all we fell into by Adam that as he is risen we might live to him which is true also of such as yet believe not But he saith Rom. 6.2 11. 7.4 Col. 2.20 Phil. 3.3 7 8. Rom. 6.4 5 8 11 7.4 5 6 Joh. 11.25 26. 2 Tim. 2.12 Rom. 8.17 18. If we be dead with him that is believing in his death in his Blood and in acceptance of that die to our own Wisdom sinful lusts and designs and to all hope in any righteousness of our own and so to all the appearing glory ease pleas and excellency of this World and all by and with him which is to be dead with him in Scripture-Language If we be dead note it he saith not he we shall also live with him receive forgiveness be enlived preserved and raised with and by him yea more still If we in this believing dying and living do suffer with him and so for his and his peoples sakes we shall raign with him at his coming but when such glorious grace is discovered and tendered to us by so gracious a One as hath suffered so much for us and hath gone before us and calleth us to follow him and yet we refuse If we deny him he will deny us This is as plain as all the rest If any say He cannot for this his death will be in vain his call frustrate and his word become of none effect This hath been answered before That his death his word hath its effect and his Purpose shall verily be performed according as he purposed that is for life according to the Election of grace and though these deniers of him bring upon themselves swift destruction 2 Pet. 2.1 Rom. 9.6 8. Isa 65.11 15. Joh. 12.48 Rom. 2.16 Prov. 9.12 Phil. 2.9 10 11. 2 Tim. 2.13 others shall be brought in and the effect of his word shall be seen in those that are born of the promise as was said The Lord shall slay thee and call his Servants by another Name nor shall his death and Ministration of the Gospel be in vain he will have the glory of all in judging them by it according to the Gospel and not he but they alone shall suffer and bear it and will have his glory of being by vertue of his death their Lord and so it follows If we believe not yet he abideth faithful faithful in all his promises and sayings yea in this affirmed and faithful saying and so faithful in and according to the manner of his Purpose he cannot he neither will nor can it suits not with his Nature it is impossible he should deny himself he saith not He cannot deny us though we believe not and deny him for if that were so he must deny himself in his own sayings concerning unbelievers Apostates and Deniers of him and in his faithfulness for bringing forth his Father's and his own Purposes according to his Purpose ordered in his Counsel and breathed forth by his Spirit but he cannot deny himself he will make good his own word and shew himself to be even the same his Spirit hath in the Gospel reported him to be denying none that by his grace in the Day of grace believe in him or having departed do again in his recalling turn to him but denying such as persist in refusing or after coming in in departure and denial of him in which is both warning and comfort and so a great motive to hold them in the Faith that were in it and to return them that were gone astray from it 2 Tim. 2.14 15 16 17 18 19. And therefore he willeth Timothy to put them in remembrance of these things c. and urgeth it because some were departed from the Faith assuring him that notwithstanding all this the Foundation of God standeth sure in which we may see not onely the Purpose of God but the Foundation laid according thereto and the sure standing of it to be such as abides with the Truth of all these foresayings and events yet it is meet to answer that conceited strong Argument against this hereto said which is Mr. Owen's saying thus Though the seed of Christ Pag. 132.3 which he is to see to upon the account of his sufferings for them do sin and trangress yet God hath put all these gracious Obligations upon himself to reduce them by corrections and afflictions but never to proceed to final sentence of utter rejection Isa 53.10 Answ This is nowhere affirmed in Scripture and so propounded as is doubtful what his meaning is if other sayings did not explain it as where he saith Pag. 364. The same sins deserve the same punishment and had not Christ answered for the sins of Believers they could not have escaped punishment And if he had said nor raised from the dead it is as true but that any perish for sin because Christ did not suffer for them is not true nor is God any respecter of persons if the manner of sinning be the same though he also saith Pag. 161. 63.2 The guilt of sin is also taken away from all those for whom Christ died by his death that it shall never be a cause of everlasting separation between God and them which hath been plentifully shewn to be contrary to the Scripture besides the taking sin out of the way by his death is one work 2 Cor. 5.21 Eph. 5.25 26 27. 1 Joh. 1.1 7. and the taking the guilt of sin c. from Men another following work the first done where the later is not done and the first done that by vertue of that by which it was done the later might in his way be done and it is a great perverting of the Scripture to render that done where it saith it is to be done of which enough hath been said but his Expression here being more moderate I will so view it for here he saith not All that Christ died for but his Seed By the Seed of Christ See par 1. ch 13. and par 4. ch 2. is not meant any of the Sons of Adam considered as he was to die and had undertaken it and did die for them for so they were Men fallen Adam's Seed and sinners and enemies to God which the Seed of Christ are nowhere called but they come in upon the account of his Death Resurrection and Sacrifice compleated and Spirit sent forth in the means prevailing with them And this express by the Prophet taught by our Saviour and so the Children of the Promise Isa 53.8 10 11. Joh. 12.23 24. Rom. 9.25 26 8. those that were born of the promise that were not before in that sense
through Christ with Mankinde in beginning was and so still is 1. Act. 14.13 14 15 16 17. 17.25 28. Rom. 1.19 20. 2.4 5. Psal 19.1 7. Prov. 1.20 23 24. 8.1 6. Joh. 1.4 5 7 8 9. Isa 45.22 23 That he would extend Mercy use Means and give forth such Testimonies of his Goodness in and through Chrst the promised Seed to all men that they might behold and in beholding repent believe and be saved yea so verily That whoever did not then repent and believe it was because he was then found hardening his own heart and willingly refusing In which God is was and will be found faithful for ever and Refusers left without excuse when Believers saved 2. Iob 37.2 Prov. 3.5 6 32 33. Isa 45.21 22. Iob 35.10 11. Psal 33.8 Psal 14.2 3. Rom. 2.10.22 23. Psa 36.6 7. 100.1 2. 117.1 2. 130.4 That Men should hear his Voice minde and behold his Goodness and so believe him to be Great Righteous and Gracious and so fear him and stand in awe of him and in this belief and awe of him to acknowledg the Righteousness of that Obligation which naturally obligeth them to love the Lord with all their Heart and Soul and Strength and their Neighbour as themselves and to walk in that Love and so their own short coming of it and inability to answer it and their due and just desert of curse thereby and inability of themselves to avoid it and so being abased in themselves and believing his Goodness and Mercy to hope therein and cry to him for it and so believing in him in Testimony of Thanks to yield up themselves according to light and strength given and received to live to him which is the most in this Covenant required 3. That those who by the Testimony of his Goodness do thus believe him to be Psal 107.43 33.15 16 18 19. 36.7 8 9. Lam. 3.25 26. Heb. 11.6 and to be Great and Gracious and from thence abasing themselves do hope in his Mercy and are so found coming to him he will give them Understanding and bless and save them yea even in such believing how weak soever it be if it be according to the Light and Strength in the means given and received And this is all I can finde to have been in the beginning and from the beginning of any Covenant made by God with Mankinde through Christ and under this Covenant in their time ever were still are and will be all Men in their several Ages from the beginning to the end of this World If any reply That here is nothing mentioned of Men that they have engaged themselves to God in for performance of and how can that be called a Covenant where both parties have not engaged I answer Where there is an Engagement between two and the one a publick Man the several Engagements of the Particulars concerned in that publick Man is not necessary to make it a real Covenant And this will be yielded if Reason it self were made Umpire That a Lord of a Mannor may make a Covenant with his eldest Son about the disposal of his Lands Rents Goods and Priviledges to such and such Children Servants and Strangers also that are yet to be born on such and such terms to receive all engaged to them and this a Covenant to stand firm to all effects and they all as they come forth be accordingly engaged and so to receive that given or else be rejected and shall not Faith acknowledge That The Great and Mighty God Psal 24.1 2 5. Mal. 1.6 The Father of Jesus Christ The Lord and Master of us all may make such a Covenant for Men who are his own Creatures and pass it over to his own Son his first-Born and shall not all Men be engaged in it for receit or for rejection were not the denial of this unreasonable But if Understanding and Faith be asked they will soon tell us That both parties have engaged in this Covenant that God made with Christ the second publick Man for Men seeing he interposed for and undertook in the Nature of Man Gal. 4 4. 1 Tim. 2.6 1 Cor. 6.19 20. Deut. 29.14 15. to satisfie the Obligation under which Mankinde was fallen and having so bought them he as their Lord and Representative did in his Father's Engagement to him so engage for them and are they not then all engaged yea have they not all in the publick Man engaged and are by him engaged could Moses the Mediator between God and Israel enter into Covenant those that were far off and yet to be born and shall not the Lord of Moses The Mediator between God and Men do as much for all Men and was that a sin in those 1 Tim. 2.5 2 Sam. 21.1 7 9 14 15 16. that so many Generations after thought themselves not engaged in the Covenant made by Joshua their Leader into Canaan and the Elders of Israel though unadvisedly made and took courage to break it and will it not be a greater sin in any Man to think himself not engaged in this Covenant made by Jesus Christ the publick Man in the behalf of Mankinde surely all that know this Obligation will confess it a gracious Covenant and themselves engaged in it And yet I may say both That all Men are engaged in it by their natural Fathers in that Adam Seth c. yea Cain also did subscribe to iti n their offering of Sacrifice and after Noah also the Father of all Mankinde now living and many have been and are that have personally engaged according to that Testimony Joh. 3.33 he that hath received his Testimony hath set to his Seal That God is true for so those that believed the Graciousness of God in this Obligation and profess themselves That they would so seek and serve him they and their house as Joshua did did therein subscribe to the Goodness and Equity of the Obligation Josh 24.15 and therein engaged themselves and those under their Tuition to the observance of it Ier. 2.20 21. 1 King 2.38 42. And if such willingly turn aside their sin is so much the greater and their Condemnation will also be verified just from their own Mouth But we need not reason it out it is expresly writ That some in the acknowledgment of it did offer Sacrifice did call upon and were called by the Name of the Lord Gen. 4.3 4 26. 6.2 and these with all under their Tuition in that Profession were called The Sons of God Gen. 6.1 till the Profession received in that Tuition were cast off and the residue of Men called Men or the Sons and Daughters of Men. And those that were under this Obligation not onely Subscribers Gen. 4.3 4. 5.3 22. Heb. 11.2 3 4 5 6 Gen. 6.8 9. 1.7 but upright in believing with the Heart and so walked with God they were accepted and approved of God also and called
Testimony and Seal was Circumcision which was to be acted upon the Males onely in its beginning to be put on the Father of the Family and Men grown and then on Children of eight dayes old and so to be continued to Generation and Generation on the Male-Children And this Sign and Seal of Circumcision was given to Abraham and he received it to administer even to all his Family however as aforesaid become of his Family even to the Child of eight dayes old as a Seal of the Righteousness of the Faith which in believing he had received in the Testimony of God concerning the promised Seed the Object and Foundation of Faith and for alluring to Faith and for Faith to rest on and in the Covenant now made with him to confirm encrease and exercise Faith both which as he believed so he had to preach and so to testifie the Truth of that he taught he had as received from God this outward and sensible Sign to testifie seal and confirm the Faith with not Rom 4 10 11 12.13 Gal. 3.7 8 9. That by this outward Sign he should confirm and seal his own believing that he might be a Son which he evidently and knowingly was before nor yet by this outward Sign to confirm the Righteousness and Truth of the Repentance and Faith or believing in those upon whose Flesh the Sign was put but That he might be the Father c. namely by delivering such a Doctrine of Faith and testifying it with such a Sign and Seal received from God as a Seal of the Righteousness of it he might be an Instrument to draw on Men to believe and bring under the means of begetting to the Faith and Profession thereof and so become the Father of them that believe whether of his own circumcised Nation or of any other Nation in which Seal administred by him Gen. 17.9 10 11 13 14. Act. 7.8 Rom. 3.1 2. Ier. 4.4 Deut. 30.2 6. Rom. 2.25 29. 3.30 Iosh 5.9 Exod. 12.48 49. Gen. 17.10 11. Exod. 19.5 6. this also was included That all that received the same upon that account as given him of God to that end on themselves and theirs God by Covenant engaged himself to afford them such means as they attending and yielding up to him therein he would circumcise their hearts to love him and so make them of the spiritual Seed that they might be interested in and wait with assured Faith for the Good assured in the free and everlasting Covenant whence Circumcision is called God's Covenant in their Flesh and said to be much profitable and they exhorted thus to attend and the Promise also so made to them and the circumcised by this Ordinance were distinguished from the Heathen of the World yea and of them when proselyted they were by it them and theirs admitted into the Family of Abraham And all the Circumcised engaged by this Ordinance to attend on the Lord in all the Ordinances he should give untothem So that the Covenant fore-made by God with Mankinde through Christ was not in this Covenant nulled or made void or weakned but included and opened and farther help for the Observance of it afforded to all the Circumcised with greater Encouragement by the Gospel more cleerly taught and the everlasting Covenant held forth to all that were or came to be of this Family of the Circumcision so that the everlasting Covenant made with Abraham by having Circumcision annex'd did neither exclude nor hinder the eternal Salvation of any in any Nation that according to light and means believed and lived to God according to his Covenant made in and through Christ for and with Mankinde Exod. 12.48 onely such as came not in to be circumcised were deprived of those Priviledges of large Light Means Encouragements and Fellowship in Communion therein afforded by the everlasting Covenant to the circumcised Surely this free and everlasting Covenant is a blessed Covenant no Covenant beyond it nor any could be good for us that should in any sort make this void So that we look for no other Covenant but onely for another manner of making this namely in Performance of which after And in the mean season we will enquire about such Covenants-making as are for our fartherance and help in waiting for this And as we read of a three-fold Performance of this Covenant in three several times first In a literal part of it when God did give the Israelites rest in Canann by Joshua Secondly In the spirituall part of it to the Souls of Believers when God sent Jesus Christ into the World and gave him for a Covenant and the Covenant to be fully made according to Spirit and Letter in Performance at Christ his glorious coming so we shall finde a glorious Covenant made with Israel to tutor them till Christ's first coming and a Covenant made with all that believe in Christ as he hath come in the flesh and is given for a Covenant to tutor them till his next coming when the full will be given them Let us take a view of each of these CHAP. 4. Of the Covenant made with Israel in Moses time AFter Abraham and Isaac and Jacob and the Patriarchs together with him in their times had in the Faith of this everlasting Covenant sojourned in the Land of Promise a hundred ninety one yeers the Children of Israel sojourned in Egypt four hundred thirty yeers And after that God in remembrance of this Covenant brought them out of Egypt to lead them into Canaan by Moses Deut. 5.2 3. he made another Covenant with Israel expresly called Another a Covenant God made with them then at that time living and not made with their Fathers that were before them and this called A Covenant also frequently and it had two parts both and each of them called both Law and Covenant I will mention both The first was called The Ten Commands or Ten Words Exod. 34.28 Deut. 4.13 10.4 a holy and righteous Law discovering more cleerly then since Adam's fall was fore-declared all those righteous affections and services which the kindness of God to Man in the works of Creation required and in his great Redemption prepared for Mankinde in Christ and his Providence for preservation of Exod. 20.1 2 3 c. Deut. 5.6 c. Mat. 22.37 38 39. Luk. 7.27 28. Rom. 13.8 9 10. and particular Mercies and Redemptions extended to Men through Christ with his Authority do oblige and binde Men to and so how they ought to love the Lord their God with all their Heart and Minde and Soul and Strength and their Neighbour as themselves in which two Commands the whole Law is summed up and this part of the Covenant as it is called the Covenant so it is called the Law The second was called The Covenant of Levi Numb 25.12 13 Nehem. 13.29 Mal. 2.4 or of the Priesthood where in was more opened then to our first Fathers Adam Seth Noah c. who offered
so abide in that and receive the Testimony and teachings of that by all that teach you as that anointing teacheth you But saith he If there come any unto you 2 Joh. 10. 1 Joh. 2.18 26. Gal. 1.7 8 9. and bring not this doctrine receive him not into your house nor bid him God-speed And this Counsel on the same ground given in this place to warn against Seducers And so Paul to the same purpose saith Though we or an Angel from heaven preach unto you other or besides that we have preached unto you c. Again If any man preach any other Gospel unto you then that ye have received let him be accursed And John's saying to be thus understood is cleer by comparing two sayings of Paul speaking by the same Spirit * 1 Cor. 15.1 4. 2 Cor. 11.2 3 4. yea in John's own exhortation a 1 Joh. 2.28 and professed end of his writing which was still to teach them as this anoynting teacheth from Chap. 2. to Chap. 5.13 And so Peter and the residue of the Apostles 2 Pet. 1.12 13. 2 Cor. 3.3 1 Thes 5.11 14. Heb. 3.13 1 Thes 4.18 1 Pet. 4.11 Rom. 12.3 were in this manner diligent to teach Believers that knew the Truth and were established in the Truth yea Christ his anoynting is affirmed to be in such Ministration and all Believers exhorted daily to teach and exhort one another yet still according to this anoynting with the words of the Gospel in which the Spirit testifieth of Christ and according to the proportion of Faith as God hath dealt to every Man So that this place is of excellent use in all teachings and receiving of teaching But when that time comes and that is done of which Jeremiah speaks here 1 Cor. 13.12 1 Joh. 3.2.1 Cor. 4.5 Then they shall see Face to Face and know as they are known yea see Jesus as he is then will be open the hidden things of darkness and then not some of the choise onely but all the Seed even from the least of them to the greatest of them shall know the Lord so that Tongues Prophecying and Knowledge by such Mediums as now shall be useless 1 Cor. 13.8 Col. 3.4 1 Joh. 3.2 and such teachings cease then but we shall all know the Lord by an immediate sight of the Lord which will make us to be like him Such so full and so cleer Knowledge to be given then IV. For I will forgive their iniquity and I will remember their sin no more This is cleer to be such a forgiveness Jer. 31.34 as in which all sin is wholly taken away and they presented altogether spotless before him such a degree of Forgiveness Justification and Sanctification and Freedom as no Man attaineth in this Life In which daily Forgiveness is needed 1 Joh. 1.6 7 8 9 10. Eph. 5.25 26 27. Col. 1.22 23. Act. 3.19 1 Cor. 1.8 But this is that spotlesness which Christ by his Blood sprinkling commending his Father's Love there through in Gospelministring by his Mediation sending forth Spirit in his Word to work on the Heart is now about to fit his Seed for and bring them to and it shall be compleated at that very Day of his coming when also that which follows will be performed with it namely That he will remember their sin no more Whatever Forgiveness God extendeth to Men yea though into their Consciences yet while any sorrow shame pain weakness or oppression lieth on them there is some remembrance of sin for how good and gracious ends soever and while any good promised for Soul or Body is withheld there is some remembrance of sin how advantagious soever it be made yea as long as the Bodies of the Saints are in the dust there is some remembrance of sin But here from this time shall be no remembrance of sin their sins shall be remembred no more which includeth and assureth them That God will wipe away then all tears from their eyes and there shall be no more death Rev. 21.4 7.15 16 17. Jer. 31.12 Isa 60.17 18 19 20. 11.6 9. Isa 65.17 18 19. Rom. 8.21 22. Isa 9.6 7. 11.4 5. Psal 72. Isa 60 65 66. neither sorrow nor crying neither shall there be any more pain for the former things are passed away and so they shall not have any violence injustice or oppression in their Government nor suffer violence from any nor shall there be contention or strife among the Creatures with them any more nor any pollution in the Air or Earth or any thing that grows out of it but the whole Creation the Heaven and Earth made new for them Their Government and Commonwealth shall be altogether peaceable righteous and flourishing the Earth abundantly fruitful and all Nations bringing their Glory to them and they enjoying and filled with all happiness for evermore everlasting joy upon them as is before shewn in the Promises Part 5. Chap. 5. and Part 2. Chap. 10 13. And this the everlasting Covenant which was made in promise to Abraham Isaac Jacob and David and declared by the Prophets and Apostles who shall in that day be also with them when this shall be made in performance to all the spiritual Seed so as they all shall then triumphingly confess As we have heard Psal 48.8 so we have seen in the City of the Lord of Hosts in the City of our God God will establish it for ever and so filled with Rejoycings they breath forth Hallelujahs Nothing more full and plain in Scripture then these things therefore let the Rule and Consent in it be here remembred and this the Hope we are called to by the Gospel and are interested in Par. 1. ch 7. 2 Thes 2.14 Gal. 3.29 in believing in Christ so that Prayer is good for us That God would grant to us the Spirit of Wisdom and Revelation in the Knowledge of Christ that we may see what the Hope of his Calling is which is to all engaged in this Covenant and what the Riches of the Glory of his Inheritance in the Saints a little in this discovered and what the exceeding greatness of his power c. which will bring all to pass CHAP. 10. Of some usefulness of this Discovery of the Covenants IN what hath been shewn we may see if we search and read the Scriptures pointed unto That the Gospel of God and the Testimony of Christ therein is according to the Covenants of God and the Opener thereof and also That the Testimony of Christ The Purposes of God The Promises of God and The Covenants of God agree in one and the same The Revelations of Christ shew forth the Testimony of Christ which is the Key of Knowledge The Testimony of Christ declareth The Purpose of God from his Purpose The Promises of things purposed and as purposed flow and to assure the Promises the Covenants are suitably made so as in the Testimony of Christ
these Hebrews had The second Principle is Principle 2. Act. 20.21 Rom. 9.5 Joh. 14.6 Eph. 2.17 2 Cor. 4.6 Rom. 1.5 16.26 Prov. 14.15 Jam. 2.19 Rom. 10.17 Col. 1.4 Faith towards God This is the same with that called Faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ who is God over all blessed for ever and the only Medium of approaching to God and he in whom the Face of God shineth so that it is in Scripture-Language evident That the Principle here called Faith towards God is the Grace or Gift of Faith to and in a man which closeth with the Object of Faith and so is Obedience to the Faith for as is foreshewn every believing is not Faith the Fool believeth every thing and the Devils believe who yet are nowhere said to have Faith but that Belief which is of the Faith and closeth with the Faith is in Scripture called Faith and so this affirmed here as one of the first Principles taught and begot by the Oracles of God building it on the Foundation is said to be the Faith that cometh by hearing the Word of the Lord and so the Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ And so it is An inward under standing Joh. 6.40 Rom. 10.8 9 10. Gal. 5.6 discerning and minding the gracious Mind of God testified and appearing in Jesus Christ by which one is inwardly perswaded believeth the Truth and Goodness of the same and so with the heart in love desires and confidence imbraceth it whence the Grace believed worketh renewed disposition and that welleth out confession and this exprest in Scripture to be that believing which is called Faith Heb. 11.13 14 15. So that this Faith having imbraced the Word is a Principle within him that believeth for he that believeth on the Son of God hath the Witness or Testimony or Record in himself And so likewise 1 Joh. 5.10 we have three things to note in this Faith as it is a Principle 1. Act. 1.20 Rom. 1.5 10.8 9 17. 16.26 1 Cor. 3.5 2 Cor. 3.3 That it is begotten and produced by the Declaration and Ministration of Christ crucified c. and the Love of God commended through him set forth in the Gospel the Word of Faith and the Oracle of God 2. That it is wrought in the truning of the heart unto the Lord whence it here fitly both follows Act. 11.21 15.9 11 15. 26.18 20. 2 Cor. 3.16 and is joyned with Repentance from dead Works according to that promised Prov. 1.23 3. That it is founded and bottomed upon the very Blood and Sacrifice of Christ Rom. 3.25 5.6 8 9 10 11. as the Love of God is commended therethrough And this is the Faith begot by the Oracles of God as one of the first Principles thereof yea this with the Repentance mentioned are oft included both in one or either of the names being ever together and neither of them being where either of them is wanting and so the Faith of and in such turned ones is that Faith by which the Believer standeth and liveth And all the following Principles here named are for the quickning strengthening encreasing exercising and making fruitful this Faith in which the Spirit dwelleth and worketh and so it worketh through Love CHAP. 6. Of Hebrews 6.2 HEb 6.2 Of the Doctrine of Baptisms c. Note well the words he speaks not here of Baptism or Baptisms as before he did of Repentance and Faith and so he speaks not here directly and properly of the Act or Work of Baptizing Rom. 6.3 4 5. Gal. 3.26 27. Mat. 28.19 20. either inwardly which is into the death of Christ and conformity with him therein which is done in this Repentance and Faith formentioned nor yet of that outward act of Baptizing with Water in the Name of c. which is a witness of that done in and by Christ and a Medium having its tendency to that forementioned which is the Baptism indeed Eph. 4.4 5. 1 Pet. 3.21 which for the substance of it and that which is spiritual and saving indeed is one and but one for as there is one Body one Spirit one Lord and one Faith so there is one Baptism and so that he here speaks directly of is not the Work but the Doctrine of Baptisms that is the Teaching and instruction given by the Oracles about and concerning Baptismes which by the term in the Plural Number can be no other but the several wayes and mediums appointed and having their tendency towards Baptizing or for preparing for and effecting that which is Baptism indeed which because of their tendency and use to it are called by that Name each of them Baptism and all together Baptisms And about this Doctrine of Baptisms I shall note three things in the Doctrine I. That these wayes and mediums of Baptizing are four each of them bearing the Name of Baptism as an Instrument used to that end 1. The prime and chief ministerial way of Baptizing is the word of the Gospel opened and applied in preaching Mar. 1.4 Luk. 3.3 Joh. 1.29 Act. 10.25 so John besides his baptizing with Water did preach the Baptism of Repentance for the Remission of sins and this was that Apollos knew and taught being called Baptism 2. Baptizing with Water in the Name of c. is that which was first 1 Cor. 1.14 Rom. 2.28 29. Rom. 6.4 5. Gal. 3.25 26. 1 Cor. 10.1 2. and is most frequently called Baptism and as the spiritual Work of Grace in the Heart was never called Circumcision till the outward Ordinance of Circumcision was given from Heaven and then frequently so called as that which is indeed The approved Circumcision so the Work of Grace in the Heart was never called Baptism till the outward Ordinance of Baptism was given from Heaven but since so called so likewise the other mediums that have their tendency to that gracious work are also since upon the same account called Baptisms as follows 3. Afflictions Sufferings for the Name of Christ are also called Baptism Luk. 12.50 Mat. 20.22 23 Mar. 10.38 39. I saith Christ speaking of his Sufferings Have a Baptism to be baptized with and of sufferings also he saith to his Disciples Ye shall be baptized with the Baptism that I am baptized with 4. The inward Inlightnings Breathings and Operations of the Holy Ghost in and with all the former mediums Mat. 3.11 Mar. 1.8 Luk. 3.16 Joh. 1.33 7.38 14.26 is also called Baptism this being the proper work of Christ himself in his promised presence in the Ministration of the Gospel and according to it in all the means he useth for effecting this one gracious and spiritual Baptism Act. 1.5 Mat. 28.20 II. The Gospel in the Doctrine of Baptisms farther teacheth of these mediums 1. That God hath a gracious end in all these in visiting us with his Word in having admitted us into his Family in afflicting us and in extending motions of his Spirit
desire whereof and confidence in God for his gracious Answer they lift up their hands to God g 1 Tim. 2.8 whence Prayer is so named lifting up the hands to God h Psal 141.2 and in Testimony of their desire and confidence in God for his gracious answering they laid on hand on the parties prayed for i Act. 8.17 28.8 Such and in such manner their laying on of hands 2. The Doctrine of laying on of hands it is that Doctrine or teaching of the Gospel of Christ and him crucified in which Believers are directed and encouraged to pray for good things to God with Promises of a gracious hearing that so they may pray and lift up hearts and hands in confidence in God and lay on hands in Testimony thereof And this being one of those Principles that by the Oracles of God were taught to all Believers of the Oblation of Christ it must needs be as common to all Saints as the Faith of the Oblation of Christ and the Oracles proceeding from it known and believed and so it cannot be meant of the act of laying on of hands for giving and receiving the visible Gifts of the Holy Ghost for speaking with other Tongues for such laying on of hands appears to be peculiar to the Apostles and was not common to all the first Witnesses Act. 8.5.15 17 19.6 1 Cor. 14.22 12.29 30. Eph. 4.7 8 13. Eph. 1.17 3.14 17. Col. 3.9 10. 1 Thes 3.12 Eph. 6.19 2 Thes 3.1 2 Tim. 1.6 Act. 6.6 1 Tim. 5.22 Rom. 15.30 31. Act. 13.3 Jam. 5.14 15 16 20. Philip though an Evangelist and had the gift of working Miracles and did many yet for this the Church sent two Apostles Peter and John and so it was an Apostle that laid on hands for this gift another time and not this onely but the gift of Miracles and miraculcus healing though given to more then the Apostles yet not to all Saints even in those first times when Miracles were most needful till Christ had been fully taught and Jesus proved to be he nor are these gifts affirmed to be of like continuation with other spiritual gifts so that that which the Gospel in the Doctrine of laying on of hands teacheth that is of continual use for all Believers is that here meant and that is for venting our desires by Prayer to God in the Name of Christ for his mercy and free-favour through Christ to be given in blessing with encrease of and establishment in the Faith to Believers and for fitting and furnishing such as have the word of Grace in their heart to preach the Gospel and to bless their Ministration and for Believers approbation fitness faithfulness and blessing that are chosen into Church-Offices and for ability faithfulness preservation and blessing for such as are sent and imployed in Message or business for the Church and Church-Affairs and for gracious support and helpfulness in and seasonable deliverance out of any temptation sickness affliction or distress that any Believer is in and such-like as for that anointing with oyle in the Name of the Lord mentioned it appears to be taken in a metaphorical and spiritual sense because oyle and anoynting used of old was a type of the gifts and graces of the Holy Ghost Psa 45.7 Isa 61.1 with which Christ was anoynted immeasurably and with which he in the Gospel anointeth Believers which in Scripture is called oyle and anointing and anointing with material oyle is neither commanded nor anywhere in Scripture mentioned to be done much less set forth as an Ordinance since Christ's ascension into Heaven and pouring forth the Holy Ghost in which Truth being come Types and Shadows cease nor is it but once mentioned that I finde while he lived on earth Mar. 6.13 Cant. 1.3 1 Joh. 2.20 27 28. and that was when bodily cures by Miracles were most in use but this is a constant Truth His Name is as an Oyntment poured forth and so those that believe in him are said to have received an unction from him yea an anointing that teacheth and so to anoynt those we pray over with oyle in the Name of the Lord Phil. 1.8 9 10 11. is in Faith and Charity fervently streaming both in Prayers and speaking so to declare that Name in the Vertues of the Blood and Sacrifice of him and the Love of God appearing therein with the reviving Instructions and Consolations it affordeth that the savour of his Oyntments may refresh the heart And this to be the Apostles meaning Jam. 5.16 20. appears in his own after-Explanation So that the Prayer of Faith and of the Faithful is the chief Ordinance meant here with lifting up the hands in confidence to God or also with laying on of hands in Testimony of confidence in God Mat. 7.7 11. Mar. 10.24 Joh. 16.23 24. he being a God hearing Prayers which is the Doctrine of laying on of hands or that which the Gospel teacheth concerning it namely the gracious Minde of God that in all our needs we should by the Prayer of Faith and of the Faithful seek help of him and that he will hear and help us graciously according to his word Psal 64.5 And yet to cleer it 3. This is farther to be noted That in Scripture Language 1 Cor. 11.20 23 24 28. a whole Ordinance in which are many particular Acts is sometime called by the name of one particular Act in it as The Supper of the Lord in which is Blessing Prayer Instruction Praise taking and breaking Bread and distributing Wine eating drinking and comemmorating the Death of Christ Act. 20.7 Act. 2.46 c. is called by the name of one particular Act in it even Breaking Bread When the Disciples came together to break Bread Paul preached c. Yea sometime that one Act is named so as to imply all the Ordinances Believers had in Fellowship among themselves and so the Temple of God Isa 56.7 his House where Sacrifices Offerings and burnt-Offerings and all Temple-worship was rightly used and so there Accepted is even therefore called The House of Prayer And so this Ordinance of Prayer in performance of which is Confession Petition Praise with bowing the knee lifting up the eyes the voyce the hands and sometime laying on of hands as it is sometime called Prayer sometime pouring out the heart c. so it is sometime named by one particular Act in it sometime by one Eph. 3.14 1 King 8.54 Psal 123. Judg. 21.2 2 Chron. 5.17 Act. 4.24 Joh. 7.27 32 33 34. 8.27 sometime by another sometime bowing the knees somtime lifting up the eyes sometime lifting up the voice but most frequently is the Ordinance of Prayer called by that Act in it of lifting up the hands Psal 8.2 When I lift up my hands c. and Psal 63.4 While I live I will lift up my hands in thy Name Yea the whole great suffering and so the Oblation and Sacrifice of Jesus
for the end of Christ his first coming and Ministration of the Gospel Eccles 9.1 2 3 4. Joh. 3.17 5.34 12.47 48. Act. 3.26 26.18 1 Tim. 1.15 was not to judge with that judgement to condemn the world to that eternal damnation but to save the world yea such as at present rejected his words waiting their conversion letting that judgement alone till the last day and the same is his end in the Ministration of his Servants Therefore it is not good nor safe for us to be peremptory in judging that Judgement before the time of the Lord 's coming if not that 1 Cor. 4 5. much less this for eternal Judgement is after death and it appertains then also to the Lord to pass it that is next 4. That the great and eternal judgement is after death and the Resurrection of the Body and the Judgement then given will be altogether irrevocable in respect of the persons on whom given the sentence then unalterable and the execution accordingly will be eternal Deut. 22.30 Luk. 20.36 Rev. 20.15 18 21. Mat. 25.46 and so expresly called an eternal judgement there is then no more possibility of sinning or falling for those then sentenced to eternal life they are then as the Angels of God nor is there then any more time for or possiblity of Repentance or escape for those sentenced to the second death they are then as and with the Devil and his Angels And these things the Oracles of God in the Doctrine of eternal judgement teacheth by all which we may learn what the Principle it teaches Believers and they receive in the belief hereof is namely that it is An inward and hearty perswasion and minding of the future unseen spiritual and eternal things Principle 6. the eternal judgement of God and therein Rom. 8.17 24. 2 Cor. 4.16 17 18. 5.3 10. Heb. 11.13 16 25. Col. 3.1 4. 2 Tim. 4.8 1 Thess 1.9 10. Rev. 22.16 20. the eternal estate of men in which Believers that suffer for Christs sake in the flesh here shall be for ever blessed with all fulness of glorious joy and blessing and all their enemies for ever overthrown and punished with eternal torment in which perswasion and minding of these unseen and eternal things their afflictions become light and bearable to them their hearts cheered comforted and strengthened and set on things above so as longing for this heavenly state they are bent with desire and endeavour in all things to please God and so to long and wait for the coming of our Lord Jesus in glory The Foundation of this perswasion and Principle Heb. 9.2 8. 7.25 1 Cor. 1.5 6 7 8. 1 Thess 1.4 5 6 10. that which produceth it and on which it is built is as of all the former the Oblation of Jesus Christ in his Death Resurrection and Sacrifice offered and by vertue thereof sitting on the Right-hand of God mediating till he come again And they in whom this perswasion and principle is are such as in whom Christ is spiritually in some measure formed even so far as that from the belief and knowledge of Jesus Christ and him erucified all the forementioned Principles are in a gracious measure in them and so with them this also By all which they are framed both with desites and patience to expect and in well-doing to wait for the coming of the Lord. And these be the six Principles called Heb. 5.12 The first Principles of the Oracles of God that flow from the Foundation and teach these Principles by it and build them on it and therethrough builds the Believers on Christ the Foundation and frames them to the Minde of Christ and so leads them The first two which are Repentance from dead works and Faith towards God being those in which working the Believer is taken out from his estimate of himself and the world and the flesh with affections and lufts thereof crucified and he drawn to high estimates of Christ and by Faith and Love united to him The second two that is the Doctrine of Baptisms and of laying on of hands be those in which the Believer is formed more and more to Christ in fellowship with him and conformity to him in his death and likewise in the spiritual vertue of his Resurrection with enjoyment and experiments of his goodness in his Promises The third two that is the Doctine of Resurrection of the dead and of eternal Judgement be those in which the Believer is quickned up in hope of eternal life inheritance and encouraged with constancy and patience to expect and wait for the coming of Christ then to enjoy all the good promised All these mentioned he saith Heb. 6.3 And this will we do if God permit as if one should say We having formerly taught and laid the Foundation among you and therein taught the Oracles of God unto you which you have heard and known and believed and therein learned and received the first Principles thereof And we having now mentioned those first Principles of the Oracles of God begotten in you by the Oracles of God in your belief of the Testimony of Christ This we will do that is even the same foresaid that is in our writing to you leave and let remain these things with you and in you 1 Cor. 15.1 2 3 4. as things we are perswaded you have and retain and in believing remembrance of the Oblation of Christ whence all sprang you shall be saved But now not staying to declare again what the Foundation is and which be those Oracles of God or to open these first Principles thereof we will proceed to perfection in opening more fully to you the Ends Excellencies Vertues and Usefulness of the Oblation of Christ in his remaining Priesthood in his Mediation and Intercession by vertue thereof thereby to stir up in you these Principles you have already received in believing on him that you may be farther builded on him 1 Pet. 2.2 3 4 5 9. and have more usefulness of your knowledge of Jesus Christ for union and fellowship with him and conformity and fruitfulness to him and God permitting us this we will assay and endeavour to do and that upon very weighty reason and grounds because you having received so much as gives us encouragement and if any receiving so much should have clean departed our labour would be in vain to them but not judging you such we will not on a surmise desist CHAP. X. Heb. 6.4 5. FOr it is impossible for those who were once enlightened Heb. 6.4 5. and have tasted of the heavenly gift and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost and have tasted the good word of God if they fall away to renew c. For those Such as once had what these have but are now fallen off c. So that I shall note in these two and the following verses only these things 1. That all this faith and principles in these
growth and establishment in this Faith not to another faith 3 And were made partakers of the Holy Ghost This as suted to the principle of the Doctrin of Baptisms declares its own meaning to bee not only of those vertues and springs of love joy peace c. Gal. 5.22 effected by the Holy Ghost in the spirit of Beleevers but also together therewith certain spiritual gifts Eph. 4.7 and operations for usefulnesse whereof to every Beleever is given some in some measure And so these in being baptized in to the death of Christ by all the mediums with water word afflictions and spirit extended to them they did also partake of the vertue of his resurrection so as they were also therein indued with such spirituall gifts as whereby they were inabled in exercise of faith and love to speak spiritually in prayer and praises to God and spiritually and profitably in instruction admonition exhortation and consolation to men as appears in comparing the Promise Act. 2.38 39. and 11 15 16 17. and Rom. 6.4 5 6. with the performance to beleevers 1 Cor. 1.4 5 6 7. And not to every one the same usefull gifts or the same measure in the gifts given but to some one to some another to some more to some less Ephe. 4.7.8 12 14 15 16. 1 Cor. 12.2 4 5 6 7 11. 2 Pet. 1.8 2 Tim. 2.21 Rom. 12.3 6 7 8. 1 Pet. 4.10 11. Col. 2.18 1 Tim. 3.6 And so to every one some according to the measure of the gift of Christ in and with which they were fitted to bee fruitfull and in exercise of the same in faith and love according to their measure and the divine vertues in them they should neither bee barren nor unfruitfull in the knowledge of Christ but Vessels serviceable for their Masters use in the House of God Whence Beleevers are directed in all their speaking and use of spirituall gifts To keep this Rule in going forth according to the proportion of faith given them and the measure of spirituall gifts givenand received by them 1 Cor. 12.7 1 5 6 7. 1 Thes 5.8 He that by any other acquired knowledge or learning presumeth to speak besides or beyond this Rule is like to fall into the condemnation of the Devill that was not content with his place These spirituall gifts being given to profit withall and tending to open and confirm the Testimony of Christ And as of the Romanes ability through these gifts Rom. 15.14 15. so of these Hebrews Hee was perswaded they were also and not like the fallen ones that had deprived themselves thereof but these retainings were capable of that hee indeavoured even to lead them to farther usefulness and fruitfullness They were made partakers of the Holy Ghost 4 Vers 5. And have tasted of the good word of God And this also suited to the Principle of laying on of hands shews its own meaning to be Mat. 7.7 11. Ioh. 16.23 24. that whereas God by his Son had graciously promised to hear their prayers put forth in the name of his Son and to give them his good Spirit and every good thing they should and did so ask of him And this in speciall manner for things of neerest and greatest concernment When two or three of them did assemble together in his name and desired any favour of him Mat. 18.19 20 Hee will bee in the midst of them and it shall bee done in Heaven for them They had tasted that is found sweetness and refreshing in experiments of his truth mercy and goodness in answering their prayers Psal 65.2.4 18.6 7. 10 3.1-10 and manifesting his gracious presence in the assemblie of his people in performing his promises when they have prayed and in confidence lift up hands to him and sometime in that confidence Act. 21 24-3â— as a testimony of it laid hands on parties prayed for And so have had experience of the graciousness of the Lord in his pity towards them and of his truth in his promises and of his infinite love power and faithfullness in hearing of prayers and so not executing deserved threats but freely performing his promises of good whence called the good Word unto them And how this doth comfort sweeten enlarge and oblige the heart to cleave to God and continually to love and call on him Psal 17.4 and keep to the assemblie of the Saints is fully professed by the Prophet in the whole 116 Psalm and else where And in this was set out the greatness of Solomons sin 1 King â—1 9 That hee departed from following the Lord that had in such evident manner appeared to him twice And this shews the greatness of the sin of those fallen in forsaking the assemblies of the Saints Heb. 10.25 26. and crucifying to themselves him from whom they had tasted so much of his graciousness in performing his promises and hearing the prayers and blessing the assemblies of Beleevers And therein shews the great incouragement and obligation these Hebrews had to continue in their faith Heb. 10.19 20 22 23 24 25. and fellowship and approaching to God and provoking one another to love and good works having had so many experiments of the graciousness of the Lord. His drift being to stir them up more hereto in that hee hath farther to say to them who have tasted of the good Word of God Heb. 6.5 and of the powers of the World to come This Word being in the Plurall Number The powers of the World to come doth sute this sentence to the two last Principles That is the Doctrin of the Resurrection of the dead and of eternall Judgement Both being grounded on the Resurrection of Christ and his comming again and both the Resurrection of the dead which is first and the eternall Judgement which follows that Resurrection appertaining to and to be done not in the time of the World that now is but in the World to come at and after the visible appearing of Jesus Christ so that of the powers in the Doctrin of both these and the spirituall efficacies of both these in that Doctrin beleeved and of the power of the Spirit that in that Doctrin doth in some measure present or shew them to the view of faith and assertain their being really done in the due time of these powers of both these hee speaketh and of the same say they have tasted that is they have discerned savoured relished and experimented the efficaciousness of the Divine Power by which these shall bee effected 1. In their new birth even when they were dead in sins Ephes 1.19 20. 2 4 5 6. Rom. 7.9.24 25. cast by the sentence of the Law when sin accused and all their righteousness failed and dispair of all hope in themselves ceised on them And while they were in so great blindness and death The Power of this grace in the Doctrin of Christ raised from the dead 2 Tim. 1.7 8. Rom. 7.6
the Son of God afresh and putting him to an open shame And so when fallen from such a Faith by the Oracles of God fastened on such a foundation and affording such Principles They have trodden under foot the Son of God and have counted the blood of the Covenant wherewith they were sanctified as an unholy thing 10.29 and have done despite unto the Spirit of Grace These are Briars and Thorns and these not repenting but continuing thus crucifying Christ c. even themselves are Briars and Thorns nigh to cursing being rejected and their end to bee burned And this justly and deservedly 2 Sam. 23.6 7. Because of the truths goodness and riches of the Faith taught by such divine Oracles and brought on such a foundation affording such Principles sweet experiences and blessed hope all so watered from Heaven as in which others brought forth meet fruits but they rewarding evil for good have so foulely departed and continue contemning and bring forth Briars and Thorns Psol 109 2-29 till they become Briars and Thorns So that even in this Demonstration of the equity justness and holiness of Gods proceeding The Faith they fell from and that others abiding in are found fruitfull and exhorted to abide appears to bee true and of the right kind And in the fourth and fifth verses Chap. 6.9 10 11 12. the spirituality and livingness of it set forth sutably to the Principles But now I must return to view what is said against this Faith as set forth Heb. 6.4 5. Yea even by him that hath acknowledged the Faith and Holiness for which hee quotes this place really true in its kind wrought by the Spirit effectually working effectually in all the powers of their souls c. So as they become thereby Vessels in the great house of God c. which is in part already answered but I shall view what is farther said CHAP. XII Of some sayings of Mr. Owens against this Faith c. 1 HEE saith of such Beleevers and Saints as here spoken of See the Answer to this Pag. 375.376 Heb. 6.4.5 They are changed as to their use not in their Nature continuing stone and wood still though hewed and turned to the serviceableness of Vessels So his saying But this is to bee heeded that as the saying is without proof So the Question is not what they were before this faith and holiness was wrought in them nor what they are when they are departed from this faith and holiness But what they are in whom this faith and holiness is and they abiding in it and that they are wood and stone in some sense is granted according to that is said The Righteous shall flourish like the Palm Tree Hee shall grow like the Cedar in Lebanon And so they are called Trees of Righteousness Psal 92.12 13. Isa 61.3 4. 1 Pet. 2.3 4 5 9. and those that tasting the graciousness of the Lord come to him as to a living stone are built on him as lively stones c. but this is far from Mr. Owens meaning But if hee allude to that 1 Cor. 3.12 If any man build upon this foundation gold silver precious stones all which are good sure Wood Hay Stubble all which are combustible yet here is something doubtfull among many viz. whether by these bee meant Doctrins or Persons most probable Doctrins because the builder may bee saved when his labour and opinions is by fire burned But however this comes not up to our business for wee treat not of a faith and holiness builded upon the foundation by the ministry of a man only and a man miscarrying also But of the Faith builded by the enlightening and operation of the unerring Spirit of the Lord which is not mistaken in his building nor are Wood Hay Stubble as distinct from true Saints any where in Scripture called Saints and beleevers nor doth the Spirit of Christ build such on Christ and leave them such And for his other Metaphor 2 Tim. 2 20 21. Though in a great house there are Vessels not only of Gold and of Silver but also of Wood and of earth some to honour and some to dishonour Yet they are all for use And those of the most costly mettal may some of them bee for some dishonourable use for the Master and those of the meanest mettall may some of them bee for honourable use both for the Master and servants But now in the application wee have no Vessels mentioned meet for the Masters use operated by the Spirit to do worthily in their Generations as Mr. Owen confesseth these may and many of them do but such as by the grace received purge themselves from the Apostates and their wayes and so are by grace sanctified and made meet for the Masters use and prepared unto every good work so that his saying is not countenanced in this place And if any should as I when by tradition I held it have sometime done ground this assertion upon some parabolical and proverbial speeches as those in Prov. 26.11 2 Pet. 2.21 22. Hee knoweth that parables run not on all four and that Proverbs and Metaphors are not to answer that set out by them in every similitude and hee that wrings the Nose too hard causeth blood to follow for in grounding such an assertion on such metaphoricall and proverbiall speeches wee shall plead for wicked men and extenuate their sin and impute some blame to the Almighty For when it is said of them These Iude 10. 2 Pet. 2.12 13 14 15. as naturall bruit beasts made to bee taken and destroyed speak evil of the things they understand not c. If these men had never understood more than the beasts and had alwayes been so brutish and even made to bee destroyed Iob 35.10 11. Prov. 1 24-32 Psal 49.12.20 Mat. 16.26 Prov. 26.11 then had not their sin been so great as it was Nor which befalleth not to the beasts their judgement in eternall damnation so just But God having given them understanding above the beasts and they not heeding to make use of it became as the beasts that perish and so loose their own souls So the Dog that turneth to his vomit was never rid of his doggish ignorance and nature Nor the Sow that being washed walloweth in the mire was never freed from her swinish ignorance and nature And so though their doing so bee filthy and loathsome yet some pity and not so great torment to bee executed on them But for these inlightened in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ And having the holy Commandement delivered to them with such Principles effected in them in knowledge of him that forbids holy things to bee given to Dogs and Swine Mat. 7.6 And through the operations of the Spriit in that knowledge to have escaped the pollutions that are in the World through lusts which was that they might have partaken of the divine Nature to bee so foolish as to
but for the present The Spirit is life for righteousness sake yet the body is dead because of sin yea and something savouring of death is also in and troubling their souls But through the law of the Spirit of life in Christ as they in beleeving walk after the Spirit they are made free and enlived from the sentence and fear of death and filled with the promise and hope of life which comfort in so great love of God enlives us in love of the brethren And 1 Joh. 3.14 We know that we have passed from death to life 1 Joh. 4.7 16. 3 6 9 5.2 because we love the brethren c. We that are born of God that have beleeved the love wherewith God hath loved us and so abide in Christ keeping his commands of faith and love We know we are passed from being judged by our works according to the law which sentenceth to death into the gracious acceptance and favour of God in Christ and so into the liberty and life of Christ and enjoyment of his gracious Spirit which brings forth this fruit of love which whoever hath not abideth in death And this is true of all abiding in the faith without difference Eph. 2 2-5 and Col. 2.13 Speak of that quickning Act. 10.43 Joh. 3.16 18 36. which is through beleeving in Christ in which remission of sins and hope of eternal life is begun to be received which all true beleevers receive without difference though not in like fulness in every beleever And on that ground Rom. 6.11.13 8 9. Are exhortations to persevere walking in faith and love Secondly From darkness to light This is true though that quoted Act. 26.18 doth but shew the end of Gods sending the Gospel to be ministred to men Mat 4 13-16 without difference of any to whom it is so sent which where it comes light springs up And Eph. 5.8 shews what beleevers without difference are in the Lord Eph. 5.8.9 15. since called and inabled to beleeve and that pressed as a motive to abide and persevere walking in the light And 1 Thess 5.4 5. shews that beleevers are not in darkness of ignorance and unbeleef and how efficacious the light of truth beleeved was in them They were born of it They were he saith not some but all the children of light c. From whence he presseth an exhortation Not to sleep as others but to walk 〈…〉 c. And Col. 1.13 Is a blessing of God in giving him thanks for having delivered them he faith not from all darkness but from the power of darkness Col. 1.12 13.23 24. and having translated them into the Kingdome that is the spiritual Kingdome or government and interest in and hope of that promised Kingdome of the Son of his love for which cause he presseth their abiding and continuance And 1 Pet. 2.9 shews That Gods elect and chosen people are such as he hath called out of darkness into his marvellous light to shew forth his praises And what this light is 2 Cor. 4.6 and where it shineth is plain to be in the face of Christ Gods prime Elect. And this is true in a measure of all unfained beleevers let them minde this That conceit an elect company before the appointment of Christ to dye to be given him to dye for and demonstrate what they are and reconcile them into one condition with these Thirdly From an universal habit of uncleanness unto holiness In a begun inclination and through all the powers a tendency thereto that there may be a proceeding to perfection in holiness this is true But Ezek. 36.25 speaketh directly of the Jews when he hath returned them to their own land And as in reference to a first fruits in beleevers in this life Ezek 36.24 25 26 27-37 Eph. 5.23 26 27. It speaks of that God will do to them after he hath called them to beleeve in Christ And so of a continued business on and in beleevers till it be compleat for which he will be sought of them And 1 Cor. 6 11. speaks of a work begun and so in the beginnings of it done in them In the Name of the Lord Jesus and by the Spirit of our God And this given as a ground both to reprove some evils and uncleanness in them 1 Cor 6. 1 9 11 2 20. and to warn them from sinning and to stir them up by the same Name and Spirit to press on to further holiness And Tit. 3.5 shews the manner of this work and by what means and to what end it is done and so the beginning and proceeding but shews not the accomplishment as yet to be in them And Heb. 10.22 is not an affirmation of what is attained but an exhortation to use the right way for having a continual increase of renued holiness Heb. 10 12-18 19 20 24 25 12 12 14. upon that very ground of what we have in Christ and have begun to receive and may be daily receiving from him that so in holding last our confidence and profession we may follow after holiness Fourthly From a state of enmity stubboruness rebellion c. into a state of love obedience and delight This is no other but in change of an expression what was confessed to be in the first kinde of beleevers and Saints And indeed it is true of both alike for both so far as true are one Rom. 6.11 speaks of that done and compleated in Christ and not yet in us but by degrees and in due season to be done Rom. 6.11 12 13 14. And that laid as the ground in beleeving on him both to reckon our selves after him and in that account yeeld up our selves to live to him in which that will be verified of us that is said from vers 17 22. and so it plainly appears to be understood Eph. 2.12 13. Speaks of that state of Gentilism enstrangement to God all we Gentiles were in before Christ came in the flesh and offered up the acceptable Sacrifice and the priviledges confirmed before to the Jewish Nation were set open to the Gentiles Chap 3 3-6-9 and they made nigh by the blood of Christ that made peace broke down the partition wall slew the enmity c. and came and preached peace by which peace preached in his Name all that beleeve in him have access by one Spirit to the Father that is clear Col. 1.21 Speaks of the enmity in their mindes and of the efficacie of the Death and Sacrifice of Christ and peace made thereby and Gods love there-through appearing displayed and beleeved how it reconciled them to God And that to this end Col. 1.4 5.20 Tit. 3.4 5. Rom 5.8 10. Eph. 5.25 26 27. Col. 23 24. Heb. 8.1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 10. Heb. 12.22 23 24 25 26. To present them in the body of his flesh through death holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight if they continued in the faith
And exhortation to them vers 6. And admonition to them that none beguile them vers 4.8 either with inticing words or Philosophy and vain deceit or by shews of humility and great knowledge intruding themselves into things they have not seen c. and so happily either pressing them to Law-observances for their perfection or to some humane and self-mortifications or to look for some particular words or some degree and condition in attainments or some secret decree of election that was of their persons before their calling or any thing what ever besides that which is discovered to them in Christ As if there were not enough in him to be received in beleeving on him And so hee warns to beware that we be not removed from him and that hope of the Gospel given us in beleeving on him Col. 1.22 23 24. For he will present us blameless if we continue in the faith c. This is the Apostles doctrine and scope as appears in this and former and following Chapters cleerly so as in all the proofs not a syllable to maintain any true faith of a second kinde nor the cause contended for but much rather that he contendeth against and more need not bee said but only to view his terms about their priviledges in the works of God passed on them which also are needful to be considered CHAP. XXII Of the terms of Gods works passed on beleevers in this Concernment OF these terms understood as is fore-shewn and some so molified as hath been shewn before in Pages 414 435 436. they may be all received As for the term Regenerated it is not used here and hath been considered where it is onely here let that place Mat. 19.28 Ye which have followed me in the Regeneration c. be considered he saith not Ye which are regenerated as speaking of a work done but a doing and it may be taken both for Regeneration and the Ministry of Regeneration in both which they were then following him Now what was the Regeneration of Christ surely he needed none of heart spirit or disposition he was holy in and from conception and knew no sin but he had a weak frail and mortal body of the seed of David Abraham Adam and how was that regenerated but through many sufferings and death in the resurrection from the dead Luke 24.26.45 46 47. Isa 53 8 10 11 Psal 2. Act. 13.33 And so he passâ—â—on through sufferings till he was truly dead and in the resurrection he was begotten there was his regeneration and such as are so raised are his generation or regenerated people whence such promises to be performing in the spirit and soul as through dying with Rom. 6 4 5. 2 Tim. 2 11. Phil. 3.9.10 11 12 13. Joh. 15 16-25 Mat. 10. 24 9-13 and for him we are conformed to his death for we need it in that and in soul and body after we are truly dead in the resurrection of the just and those that follow him so to the death shall then enjoy that promised Mat. 19.28 and such desires of conformity to him in sufferings And as for the ministration of Christ for regeneration of others it was a ministration carried an end through sufferings in which he persevered to the end and so must that ministration of his servants be also and he that perseveres in following him in that to the end shall enjoy also that promised And that regeneration is thus to be understood here for a work not compleatly yet done but in doing both in regeneration and ministration of it is evident by the Spirit in Luke mentioning the same thing so far as they had proceeded in it saith Luke 22.28 29 30. Yee are they which have continued with me in my temptations expressing that as the medium through which regeneration is here attained which minded will help to understand all the terms that are here used The term Accepted I suppose he means it to be the same with Justified because there is no other quotation for it and they may well be alike taken and they are both alike true of all that are indeed beleevers without difference in respect of their persons as such and so sons by faith yet is not this acceptation and Justification answerable in degree to that which shall be in the resurrection of the just when their persons as Sons and all their wayes as becoming Sons will be alike accepted and justified but not altogether so yet yea in this life even beleevers in whom the faith is may be in that respect accepted and justified as Sons and yet some words or act and so a way of theirs rejected and condemned and they in that not accepted or justified but both reproved and corrected No doubt but Moses and Aaron aboad in the faith Numb 20.12 and were accepted as the Saints of the Lord yet their failing in an act of faith and not honouring the power and freeness of Gods mercy before the people was reproved and they corrected for it No doubt but Peter aboad in the faith and love of his Master Maâ— 16.22.23 and was accepted as a true disciple yet not acting rightly in his faith his carnal counsel is rejected as proceeding from some suggestion of Satan to whom Christ as in Mat. 4. saith Depart and Peter sharply reproved 1 Cor. 11.30 32. No question but those corrected with weakness sickness and some with death for so gracious an end were true beleevers and so accepted but their demeanor not suitable to their faith was deeply reproved and chastened And the same I conceive of David Psal 32. though at one time foulely faln yet not utterly departed from the faith and his beleef in God and adoration of him for then what caused that great grief and disquietness of heart nor yet wholly out of favour of God in respect of his person as the Lords servant but in respect of his evil way disallowed 1 King 15.5 reproved and sorely afflicted And this I conceive because David is affirmed not to have turned aside c. all the dayes of his life it is not said save onely in that time in which sure were many other matters but save onely in the matter of Vriah Rom. 3.22 25. 5.8 3.25 4 5. 10 9 10. c. And the word Accepted thus understood is safe and good for all beleevers and so the word Justified also But for the rest there are quotations to be viewed Rom. 5.1 The Apostle had before discovered what true faith is in respect of the object Christ as having dyed rose c. And the true beleeving begot by the discovery of this object which is therefore called faith first in the beginning bringing to and closing with him namely an hearty beleeving That this Jesus is the Christ and that he dyed for our sins and rose for our justification and is the Lord of all and the propitiation for our sins this is the
first thing in hearty beleeving whereof we shall surely be saved Secondly Rom. 5.8.10 4.23 24 25. In the proceeding of it uniting to and ingrafting into Christ viz. That through the beleef of this fore-said and the immense love power and propitiousness and good will of God commended here-through beleeve in God and so rest on him for preservation in this grace to the enjoyment of the inheritance and so for the eternal life promised Heb. 11.13 which beleeving is formerly described to be a discerning a being perswaded and a hearty operation c. And all so beleeving without difference are justified by faith which word or term is used to shew the way of receiving justification even by faith not to shew that justification is compleated and over and past for justification is still needed by beleevers and in beleeving daily received of them whence also God is said not onely to be the justifier of him that beleeveth on him that justifieth the ungodly and so to be he that hath justified the beleever Rom. 4.5 But to be the justifier of him that beleeveth and it is God that justifieth Rom. 3.26 8.33 So as it is a continued flowing business for beleevers in all needs to be receiving by faith that is the onely way of receiving and that in which God dispenseth justification Therefore being justified by faith that is by and through Christ by his bloud Rom. 5.1 2 â— 3.25 5.11 John 1.12 Act. 10.43 12.38 39 the object of faith received in and through beleeving on him wee have peace with God through Jesus Christ our Lord by whom also wee have accesse into this grace wherein wee stand and rejoyce in hope of the glory of God c. And it should bee an evil work by any strange and lofty expressions to trouble any such beleevers about this faith Rom. 8.32 33-39 Speaketh of that whence the Apostles perswasion was raised and this perswasion not of and for himself alone or some special and peculiar Beleevers with him only But of the whole society and body of Beleevers 1 Joh. 3.1 2. speaketh likewise of the whole society of Beleevers Joh. 1.12 Gal. 3.26 Behold what manner of Love the Father hath bestowed on us that wee should bee called the Sonnes of God Therefore the world knoweth us not owneth not us nor our faith and profession because it knew not him owned not God in that discovery of himself in his Son which hee hath set forth in the gospel Beloved now are wee the sons of God that is by faith and it doth not yet appear what wee shall bee that is 1 Cor. 13 12. Rom. 8.23 Col. 3.4 how glorious and happy we shall be we see yet but in part we are but a little like him we have yet but the first fruits of the spirit but when hee shall appear that is in glory wee shall bee like him for wee shall see him as hee is this is that which all true Beleevers do and may look and wait for Ephe. 3.15 Joh. 1.12 Gal. 3.26 speaks of more than beleevers on the earth and shews that all that are beleevers in Christ and those that have lived and died in the faith have had their name of Sonnes from Christ the Sonne and Beleevers now by vertue of their union with him in beleeving and from him now are they called Christians and his house c. And it is confessed in a sense hee puts his Name on them though it bee not here said they are called after the name of God But let it bee considered that here is shown how the Apostle prayed for them Eph. 3 14.-19 as was in Chap. 1 18.-20 And surely for nothing but what was good and needfull for them hee doth not puff them up with thoughts of their attainments Eph. 1.13 because they had beleeved and were sealed with the holy spirit of promise And were quickned together with Christ and were raised together and made to sit together in heavenly places in him Eph. 2.5 6 8 and were saved by grace through faith of the gift of God therefore they had and injoyed these things hee prayed for and it was impossible for them to miscarry though they knew not that they had these things and so wanted only the knowledge in themselves of the assurance of their abiding Nor doth he scare or terrify them as if their faith were not of the right kind and that Christ and his holy spirit were not in them But hee acknowledging their faith right and them faithful in Christ tells them now earnestly and for what hee prayeth for them Phil. 1.9 10 11. Col 1.9 10 11 1 Thes 3.12 13. 5.23 2 Thes 1.11 12 Eph. 3.14 15 that they may abide and grow and be preserved and established in the faith and so found unblameable before him at his comming As hee did the like for the Phillipians and for the Colossians and for the Thessalonians and so likewise for the Hebrews chap. 13.20 And so here to the Ephesians hee lets them know To whom and in whose name he prayed for them even unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named In which are many things encouraging both him and them to pray to God in the name of Christ As the exceeding greatnesse of the power of God that gave and raised Christ Eph. 1.19 22 2.17 18 19 22. Heb. 3.5 6 c. The relation between the Father and the Son and his ingagement to his Son by whom the ways of our approach to have access to God was opened the fellowship corporation and body hee hath received us into and made us of even his own house and family and so his interest in us Eph 1.23 3 14 and ours in him our Lord and the owner of this house And Lastly That in putting his word in their heart and inabling them to beleeve and confesse the same hee hath put his name upon them so farre that hee is pleased to bee called their God and Father and they called his people and the declarers of his name which with the rest gives great consolation seeing hee hath promised to hear his people that are called by his name when they humble themselves and pray and seek his face and pray towards or in the house that is called by his name 2 Chron. 7 12-14 6 20-41 which as the old was a tipe signifies Christ and his people and so to pray in faith in the Name of Christ and in union with and love of the brethren Joh. 16.23 Mar. 11.24 25 Psal 65 1-4 Hee being a God hearing prayers and they blessed whom he chooseth and causeth to approach to him that they may dwell in his house for they shall bee satified And as this is great consolation for Beleevers confident praying so it hath in it also a forcible and great admonition to Beleevers to
beware that wee dishonour not the Name that is put upon us Rom. 2.24 As miscarriages in such as bear this Name will do ten times more then in those that have not this Name upon them whence that Tit. 2.10 So that all the Family of God is named of Christ is express here and that God hath put his Name on them is true Instructive Consolatory and Admonitory But when thus exprest called by the name of God there needs some cautions to prevent vain conceits c. for they are not called Jehovah or God or the Father or Jesus or the Christ or the Holy Ghost or the Creator of all things or the Redeemer of mankind or the sanctifier of Gods chosen or the Lord of hoasts or the Almighty or the Truth Love Wisdome it self c. no not so but the Name put on them is the Name of that report of his goodnesse in his Doctrin of which they are made Beleevers and professors and so hee is called their God Father Saviour c. And they his Israel his People Sons Christians c. And yet here is another caution namely that this family will one day bee more pure and have a new name given them after their total victory and conquest or his Name put on them in a more glorious manner when that 2 Cor. 5.21 will bee compleatly fulfilled as is there promised when without controversie there will bee amongst them no finne nor possibility of sinning or falling but the family on earth is not so yet and though the spirits of just men bee perfect and under the Altar and out of all danger yet want they their bodies and so that fulnesse they shall enjoy in the resurrection of the just But that part of the family that is here below are yet in mortal bodies and so are not yet any of them altogether without sin nor are all things that offend yet purged out the beleevers and Saints in and of this part of the family here on earth are yet in a warfare beset with enemies within and without temptations from lusts within terrours and allurements from the world without Satan and his Ministers with pretences of light striving to seduce them from the faith and to turn them out of the way whence they are often warned from God to stand fast in the faith to be sober and watchful to put on the whole Armor of God to fight the good fight of Faith to cleave to Christ in whom there is compleatness for them to sow to the spirit of whom they shall reap life everlasting And to take heed that they bee not deceived and that they depart not through an evil heart of unbeleefe and many such warnings with ground of the same Now of this part of the family here on earth and of the faith and holinesse in them and so of such beleevers and Saints is our whole discourse And so in the controversy between some brethren The Question is whether such as are admitted into this family in that part of it that is here below and have the name of God and Christ so put on them as it is put on his people here below whether they may not by neglect of their watch and the warning given them bee overcome to such degrees of sinning as to depart from the faith and so bee cast out of this family and have this name taken off them again To which I answer Oh that none more might but yet wee need to bee heedful for if we look at our tipes as the Temple and place God chose for his worship and put his name there was a tipe of those by faith built on Christ 1 Pet. 2.3.5 So it s not without its use to us that where God sets his name at the first yet for the wickednesse of the people there Jer. 7 10-14 he removed it away from thence And threatned to do the same yea hee hath done it to Jerusalem and the house there called by his name or it wee look at Israel of old was not that people called Israel Isa 1.10.21 after for their wickednesse called Sodome Jer. 2.21 and that called a faithful City afterward for their filthiness called a harlot yea was not the noble Vine of Gods planting 1 Cor. 10 1-11.18 afterward by evil ways degenerated into the plant of a strange Vine And are not these things writ for examples and warnings to us but to leave pressing the tipes and come nigher even to the truth it self If this family be the kingdome of God here on earth as I suppose none questions then what means that saying of our Saviour Mat. 8.11 12 Many shall come from the East and West and shall sit down with Abraham Isaac and Jacob in the kingdome of heaven But the children of the kingdome shall bee cast out into utter darknesse 1 Tim. 3.15 2 Tim. 20 21 16 17 18. with 1 Tim. 1.19 20. Isa 60.21 Zach. 14.21 Psal 144.11 14 15 16 c. And if this family bee the house of God which is the Church of the living God compared to a great house then sure the vessels admitted and taken into it that are unmeet for the Masters use are such as are departed from the faith they once had when they were admitted and used and are therefore to bee cast out Surely that time hath not yet been nor now is but is yet to come of which it is said Thy people shall be all righteous c. This will bee when the Church is wholly rid of strange children that there is no more going out c So that as yet the being in this family and called by his name Is no sufficient argument to prove that all that so are in the time of this warfar will without all doubt so continue and remain for ever it is more safe for us to watch over our selves Gal. 5.4 1 Tim. 1.19 20 2 Tim. 2.18 4.3.4 1 Tim. 4.1 2 and over one another in taking the warnings given us in the Scripture where also it is affirmed that some have fallen from grace some have made Shipwrack of faith and a good conscience some have erred from the Faith and overthrown the faith of others yea and there also the spirit hath expresly affirmed that in these latter dayes some shall depart from the faith giving heed to seducing spirits and doctrins of devils yea many turn to fables which wee with sorrow for them see fulfilled in many of whom it cannot with any evidence of truth bee said that they were all and every of them hypocrites or that their faith was not saving yea some of them so strong in that opinion that they counted it no less than blasphemy to say that there was any possibility for them or any true beleever and Saints to fall away But I will proceed no farther I have considered Mr. Owens stating the question and his proofs and observed his own rule in going to the Law and Testimony
where is not a word found to countenance any kinde of faith but one of which the mixtures in his first kinde and the lofty and by expressions in his second kinde are no part but that which is faith indeed in either or both of them is one and the same faith CHAP. XXIII The Conclusion AS I began so I end To the Law and Testimony Minde what is written see what is there plainly affirmed and testified how the question is there stated and answered that beleeve and hold fast and be not waved from it by any Queries glosses interpretations or subtil and Scholastical stating of the question by men who it will appear by such courses strive more for victory than truth and seek more for the honour of some sort of men than of the testimony of Jesus and spying their inability to overturn the evidence of truth in that testimony of truth plainly asserted they devise Queries and glosses and then state the question so as that they strive to deny and that they maintain is a meer fancy that none that hold forth the testimony of Christ have contended for or against that so they may seem to have the victory and then cast a blemish on the plain sayings of the Holy Ghost to make mens devices appear lovely and so put to shame the beleevers of the plain testimony of Christ And how near to this Mr. Owen comes I leave for others to consider onely in what is written these things appear proved 1 That in affirming two kindes of faith wrought by the Spirit in men upon account whereof they are called Beleevers and Saints and both really true in their kinde He plainly goeth besides and contrarieth the Scripture that tells us but one kinde really true 2 That in his first kinde of faith there are so many mixtures put in that are no efficacies of the holy Spirit in the Gospel nor any parts of faith at all and if they be taken as ingredients and parts of the faith he mentions then is that faith he calls really true in its kinde no faith at all in Scripture language nor any there on the account of such a faith called Beleevers and Saints nor is it the faith pleaded for and called saving by those he opposeth And if those mixtures be removed and left out and that stand for the faith true in its kinde which is so indeed then it is one and the same with all that he saith of the second kinde of faith that is by Scripture found true indeed and then he hath secretly yet plainly yeelded all that which through his book he opposeth in another for this faith hee yeeldeth men may fall from 3 That in his second kinde of faith he hath put in strange and unscripture-like expressions and assertions in every of his Concernments specially the former three of them which being taken as necessary to the being of this second kinde of faith that it may be true in its kinde then is there no such faith and holiness set forth in the Scripture nor any such beleevers and Saints on this earth what ever by fancy or mans approbation some may conceive Nor doth all or any of the quotations express or prove such a faith according to the terms asserted to differ it from the first kinde so that the faith and holiness the perseverance whereof such as no possibility of falling away he asserteth is such a faith as is not as no man hath otherwise then by conceit a fancy which those he opposeth never vented to bring it within the lists of a controversie And so in striving for this he was quite besides the business in controversie to give any answer thereto the question being not about fancy but truth As for the reason why he thus stated the question as to evade the business I leave that to himself and others to consider 4. That in both his kindes of faith I find that that which is true and which the quotations to them do either express or prove for to be saith It is for the kinde of it in both but one and the same kinde of faith as hath been fully shewn in treating of both onely it is so darkned by the mixtures put in the one and the strange expressions and lofty terms put in the other that no man that taketh all hee saith for truth can see any door for him to come into the faith or any certain way to know when he hath it yea it will more hinder such as have it not from faith and such as have it from perseverance then all said by him whom he opposeth and leaves men for their consolation to their fancy and the judgment of their Rabbies to relye on whereas the faith that is true saving and justifying is cleerly set forth in the Scripture in the testimony of Christ as in this Treatise hath been shewn in every part thereof let the Scriptures quoted be read and their expressions beleeved and so let the Reader discern and judge accordingly If any reply That when there is a controversie about faith It is then needful to state the question that it may be seen what is pleaded for and who plead for the true faith indeed I answer The object and foundation of faith being discovered in the plain sayings of the Gospel and the inward beleef and acknowledgement of that stood for according to plain sayings in the Gospel the question is well stated in the plain affirmations of the Gospel and none need require any other stating of the question but such as cannot indure to stand to those sayings from which none that are wise will be waved And the truth is the controversie was not about the faith it self but about the possibility or impossibility of such as at any time have attained to beleeve to fall away again that so help may accordingly be administred to them and they exhorted to receive and use the same to prevent danger and the divers kinds of true faith is an invention brought in to strengthen the pursuit of the controversie and who shall state a question for two kindes of faith true in their kinde when there is but one and what will become of all that is builded on a question so stated or who that is wise will regard it to be waved by it Judge But if any will still bee violent to have the question stated let them first consider and plainly answer this one question namely Quest What they do indeed mean by faith whether the object of faith or the grace of beleeving in that object for this is cleer in the Scripture That as our Fathers confiding and trusting and hoping in God was called their Trust and their Hope so also God himself in whom they trusted is by them confessed their Hope and their Trust Psal 71.5 Jer. 17.17 Psal 40.4 1 Tim. 1.1 And he is pronounced Blessed that maketh the Lord his Trust And so now God hath sent forth his Son and taken up his dwelling
in him the Man Jesus Christ he is therefore likewise called God our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ our hope And so the Lord Jesus Christ the Son of God and Saviour of the world as he hath taken the nature of man and dyed for our sins and rose for our justification offered the acceptable sacrifice sitteth at the right hand of God filled with Spirit c. So as who ever beleeveth in him shall receive forgiveness of sins c. This the object of faith and the testimony of Christ in the Gospel holding forth this being that in which he is discovered and discerned in beleeving of which beleeved and received that is the mediate object of faith and Christ thus set forth in and by the Gospel is called The faith even the same faith that Paul did once persecute and after preach And this faith is one and but one But I suppose the controversie is not about this though the evil managing the controversie hath strengthned many in denying this But here the business controverted is about the grace of beleeving Now every beleeving is not faith but that which is begotten by the declaration of the object of faith and in beleeving it closeth with it And so faith is still one as hath been shewn at large Part 3. Chap. 17. and elsewhere And so if answer bee given That by faith is meant such a beleeving as is begotten by the testimony of Christ and closeth with Christ in that testimony then sure the Question is stated in the Answer given but if it be urged it need to be better opened I answer it hath been often shewn how the Scripture doth it in many places plainly and so far to yeeld to all that is right even in tradition of Fathers also It s known what some of them have said and others from them have preached who have said the right beleef is this A beleeving God to Bee and beleeving of God in that which he saith and beleeving in God for all he hath promised This all this nothing less than this is said to bee a right beleef True it is He that beleeveth not God to bee and Jehovah to be that very true God is as an Atheist and hath no true beleef at all But he that beleeveth God to be and Jehovah to bee that very God doth so far beleeve a right yet if he beleeve him not true in his sayings and demonstrations of his goodness he is yet wanting of a right beleef yea his beleeving is not saving without this If he beleeveth both these his beleeving is right and saving and if he abide in it and minde what he beleeveth it will save him so as to bring him to beleeve in God for what he promiseth which when he attaineth he beginneth to bee saved so far as he is a true beleever and hath faith even true faith And as I conceive the Scripture it self also holds forth this in Heb 11.6 For he that cometh to God must beleeve that he is and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him Here is the beleef of his being express and the beleef of his sayings in his demonstrated goodness express beleeving in him intimated in coming to him And this to prove faith in Henoch and in his time when though all the goodness of God to man-ward was through a Mediator yet the Mediator and his work was not then so clearly revealed as since Jesus Christ carried our nature into heaven and the fulnes of the God-head dwels in him bodily of which his first witnesses have testified saying We know that the Son of God is come 2 Joh. 5.20 and hath given us an understanding that we may know him that is true and we are in him that is true even in his Son Jesus Christ This is the true God and eternal life So then we have not another faith or an other manner of beleeving but the same object of faith brought nigher and set forth more cleerly to be in the same manner more firmly beleeved in even God in Christ and so Christ and God in him 1 To beleeve this publick man to be even the second man the Lord from heaven the spiritual man that hath in himself as the publick man suffered for the sins of mankinde that came in by the first publick mans transgression and restored the nature of man and presented it spotless in himself before the Father and the Father hath taken his wel pleasedness and dwelling in him and set him forth the propitiation for the sins of the world the Savior of the world That whoever beleeve in him may have everlasting life And that Jesus is this Christ the Son of the living God 2 To beleeve his sayings by his Spirit in the Gospel all true and good the very sayings of the God of truth in and by him 3 To beleeve in him in Christ Jesus in his blood and so in God in him for all that he hath promised and so for the Kingdome to come this according to the description of the Ancient is Evangelical faith not another kinde but the same more bright and fully appearing and enjoyed all which hath been shewn in first second third and fourth parts of this Treatise yea in the residue also at large And though as at first mentioned it is accepted where this glorious Gospel is not given yet where it is displayed if the first be wanting there is no right Gospel-beleeving but that beleeved with the heart will effect the other two which being in any measure effected such do not onely beleeve truly but are true beleevers and have right faith that is saving and justifying And as for Scripture-stating and explicating the question it is oft shewn already and all agreeing with that here said to set it forth by a definition I will not presume onely the nearest that I finde of that nature I will mention it is in Heb. 1.2 Now faith is the substance ground or confidence of things hoped for the evidence of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen By faith here it is cleer is meant such a beleef of Gods evidenced goodness as is begotten by his own declaration evidence or testimony and closeth with the same in beleeving according to his evidence given And that he speaks of the object of faith evidenced by divine testimony received and closed with in beleeving is evident throughout the whole Epistle of which evidences through mediums in the rumor of that report in Paradise the evidences in works of Creation and Providence were the first and then more fully by word and oracles and then most full and clear by his Son the standing testimony of whom is in the Gospel as now come forth and this is plain Chap. 1.1 2 3 2.1 2 3 4. 12.25 of faith begot by evidences through the first mediums Examples in this 11. Chapter from vers 4. to vers 7. of more fulness added in more clear discovery by word