is to liue by faith p. 203. 204 What is to be done that we might liue by faith viz. 1. Aquaint our selues familiarly with the Word of God 2. Exercise faith aright in the Word p. 204. 205 Besides expresse Cmmandements and direct promises there be speciall promises and commandements by consequent which we are to note and make vse of p. 205. 206 The acts of faith about the Word 1. It doth firmely and vniuersally assent to the whole Word of God and set a due price and value vpon it p. 207 2. It ponders the word seriously and treasures it vp safe ibid. 3. It preserues and keeps in the way of the promises ibid. 4. It plyes the throne of grace with earnest and continuall supplications ibid. 5. It looketh vp directly vnto God his wisdome power mercy and faithfulnesse p. 208 6. It resteth quietly vpon God and tryumpheth before the victory p. 208 Meanes to stirre vp our selues to liue by faith scil 1. Find out thy vnbeliefe p. 208. 209. 210. c. 2. See the necessity and pretiousnesse of faith p. 213 3. Meditate on the grounds of faith p. 213. 214 4. Feeling weaknesse of faith looke on Christ p. 214 5. Pray for the Spirit of faith p. 215 CHAP. II. WHat is meant by Gods promises and the diuers kinds therof p. 216 The promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes ibid. This promise is free p. 217 Yet obtained through Christ only ibid. And receiued and possessed by faith and by it alone p. 217 218 This promise is of faith 1. That it might be of free grace ibid. 2. That it might bee stedfast and sure to all the seed ibid. 3. That only is the true manner of Iustification which shuts forth all boasting in the dignity of our workes p. 218. 219 Its necessary to seeke pardon of sinne by faith for 1. In our selues we be sinfull and cursed and remission which is of grace can be obtained by no other meanes but only by faith in Iesus Christ p. 219 2. Faith goeth directly vnto Christ that by him wee might be justified ibid. 3. Faith in the promises of mercy doth commend and maintaine the glory of Gods grace p. 220 The acts of faith touching this promise of forgiuenes be diuers 1. It generally belieueth the promise to bee true and thereby discernes that sinne is pardonable p. 220. 221 2. It stirreth vp earnest desires and longings to bee made partaker of this mercy p. 221. 222 3. It draweth vs forward to seeke mercy of God by vnfained confession and hearty supplication p. 222. 223. 224 4. It embraceth and resteth vpon the speciall and free mercy of God in Christ for pardon p. 224. 225 5. It doth certifie of pardon granted and sealed vnto vs. p. 225 How faith doth assure that our sinnes are already pardoned p. 225. 226 Three prerogatiues accompany confident assurance 1. Peace with God 2. Free accesse vnto the throne of grace 3. Ioy in the Holy Ghost vnspeakable and glorious p. 227. 228 6. By faith we continue in this blessed state in sweet peace and fellowship with God p. 228. 229 A Christian may liue by faith for many dayes or rather all the dayes of his life in sweet peace and communion with God if he will learne to maintaine and take paines to exercise his faith aright p. 230. 231. 232 To what measure of ioy a Christian may attaine p. 232. 233 Two speciall causes there be why many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubt 1. An immoderate aggrauation of their sinne and continuall thought of their vnworthinesse p. 234 These must know it is good to deny themselues but not to doubt of the mercy of the Lord. ibid. The detestation of sinne is greatly to be commended if they remember withall that there is hope in Israel concerning this p. 235 There be sins of ignorance infirmitie forgetfulnesse and sudden passion and there be foule enormous notorious sinnes which wound conscience p. 235. 236 If a man haue often fallen into notorious offences he is not to despaire ibid. A foule offence after grace receiued is not vnpardonable p. 236. 237 Many complaine they cannot belieue when indeed they thinke there is no promise of mercy made vnto them vpon which they should ground their confidence ibid. Such must know 1. that God calleth them in his word to come vnto him as if he did particularly name them 2. They must consider of the free grace of God in promising and his faithfulnesse in making good whatsoeuer he bath promised ibid. The second cause is ignorance of the way how this assurance is to be sought vpon what foundation it is to bee laid in what order they come vnto it p. 238 Two things are specially to be learned for their direction 1. That assoone as euer a man feeles sin as a burden and doth truly thirst to bee eased of it hee hath a calling to come vnto Christ p. 238 2. The barren in grace must come vnto Christ to bee supplyed of his fulnesse p. 239 Directions to the weake how to stirre vp themselues to beleeue when they feele no comfort p. 239 1. They must vnfainedly humble their soules before God in the confession of sinne with earnest prayer for pardon p. 240 2. They must rowse and stirre vp themselues to beleeue with reasons drawne from the promises and couenant of God made in Iesus Christ considerations taken out of the word and experience of his dealing with other his seruants in former times p. 241. 242 3. They must be instant with the Lord to giue them both strength of faith the sight of their belief p. 242. 243 4. They must comfort their hearts in the certainty of Gods word though for the present they feele no comfort p. 243 Thus faith is daily to be preserued and quickened ibid. CHAP. III. OF the promises of Sanctification p. 244 A Christian is allowed to beleeue these promises for 1. In the couenant of grace God hath promised to take away the heart of stone c. p. 245 2. The fountaine of grace is set open vnto the thirsty and he is inuited to come and drinke to the satisfying of his soule p. 245. 246 3. Christ by his bloud hath purchased for his people all spirituall blessings in heauenly things ibid. 4. We are taught to aske of God in Christ increase and strength of grace ibid. 5. The faithfull haue relyed vpon Christ for grace and ability to walke in his wayes ibid. 6. Mans duty is Gods free gift of grace ibid. It is necessary to belieue that God will sanctifie our nature and enable to the duties of holinesse p. 246. 247 For 1. Iustification sanctification be indiuiduall p. 247 2. Otherwise Christians shall very much stagger be off and on coldly set vpon the practice of Christianity ibid. 3. Our owne strength is too weake for the worke of holinesse ibid. 4. Setlednesse in this that God will perfect the worke of holinesse begun causeth men to goe about
Luke 24. ibid. Psal 10. r. Psal 119.11 p. 147. 4.29 r. 4.18.19 p. 157. Mat. 3.17 r. Mal. 3.17 p. 241. Psal 52.2 r. Psal 51.1.2 p. 243. profit r. comfort p. 252. discomfort r. thraldome p. 328. Psal 60. r. Psal 68. p. 358. Prou. 14 r. Prou. 4. ibid. vers 14. r. vers 24. p. 416. Psal 102. r. Psal 105. p. 433. r. Iohn 6.56 A TREATISE OF FAITH The first Part. CHAP. I. Of the diuers acceptations of Faith IT is expedient and necessarie that all Christians should acquaint themselues with the doctrine of Faith §. 1. The necessitie of Faith because the safetie of all Christian Religion doth depend vpon the right vnderstanding of this matte and Satan with his subtleties hath euer endeauoured to obscure this doctrine by the mists of Sophismes or to weaken it some other wayes that he might rob God of his glorie and the Church of the certaintie of her saluation And if the necessitie of a thing knowne and acknowledged stirre vp to enquire into it and labour after it this also may prouoke vs to search and enquire what faith is 1. Faith is of the number of those necessary things which are necessarily required to the obtaining of others and not of those which are wrought by compulsion or by any necessary cause compelling Heb. 11.6 As if a man would see he must open his eyes and yet he is not by externall violence forced thereunto 2. No vnbelieuer can please God for how should hee who is incredulous and diuided from God please him who is most true and faithfull Ioh. 3.16 18 36 Rom. 3.28 1. Cor. 1. â—1 Saluation is in the pleasure and power of God which he dispenseth according to his owne not our will But he accepteth none as righteous to life but them that belieue 3. The qualitie of this present life and our habitation 1. Cor. 5.6 7. in which we are absent from the Lord doth euidence the necessitie of faith As a sonne that liues from the presence of his Father must belieue his letters and messengers sent vnto him 4. The qualitie of things necessary to bee knowne for the obtaining of saluation is such that they cannot bee apprehended or receiued without it As in humane things the qualitie of Arts and Sciences is such that they require vnderstanding Acts 15.9 Rom. â— 28 Ephes 1.13 14. because they cannot bee conceiued without it so in things diuine faith is requisite without which wee can neuer comprehend the mysteries of saluation 5. The gifts which God bestoweth vpon his children the graces which the Holy Ghost doth worke in their hearts doe necessarily require faith by the ordinance and determination of the Lord. §. 2. Diuers acceptations of the word faith Math. 23.23 Rom. 3.3 Gal. 5.22 Titus 2.10 § 2. The word Faith in Scripture is taken diuersly 1. It is put for truth fidelitie or faithfulnesse constancie and iustice in word and action promise or accomplishment 2. By faith sometimes true Christian knowledge and perswasion Rom. 12.3 14.1.22 or the measure thereof is to be vnderstood specially the sound knowledge of Christian libertie in Iesus Christ 3. It noteth a sure testimonie or firme demonstration of a thing to come Acts 17.31 4. It signifieth the doctrine of the Gospell and so Christ the subiect of the Scripture which preacheth saluation to bee no otherwise but by faith in Christ and this is called by Diuines Acts 6.7 13.8 Gal. 1.23 3.2.5 Gal. 3.23 24. faith which is belieued 5. It is taken for beliefe of the Gospell the habite being implyed in the act the gift in the exercise which is the faith whereby wee beleeue And this is expressed by the phrases of Belieuing God Iohn 5.46 47. Iohn 2.22 23. Luke 24.25 Acts 26.27 Belieuing on God Belieuing on Christ Belieuing the Prophets 6. Faith is put for vnfained profession ioyned with feruent desire to further Christian Religion and a godly life Rom. 1.8 Gal. 6.10 Acts 14.22 Math. 9 2. 1. Thess 1.3 § 3. Faith signifying beliefe is vsed to note 1. An ordinarie knowledge and bare assent to the historicall truth of Scripture grounded vpon the authoritie and truth of the Speaker though sometimes holpen by experiments §. 3. Sorts of Faith and other inducements and probabilities of the things and this is called faith Historicall Historicall faith that is a naked Iam. 2.19 24. Acts 26.27 imperfect dead assent without trust or confidence in the mercies of God or adherence to the Commandements Howbeit we must not imagine that faith is reputed vnsound or not saluificall because historicall rather it is oftentimes vnsufficient to saue because it is not so fully historicall as it might be but the name of historicall faith arose hence that some are said to belieue who did neuer embrace Christ as their only Sauiour withall their hearts nor confidently relie vpon the promises of mercie otherwise faith iustifying doth more certainly belieue the truth of the historie of the Gospell and so is more historicall than the faith called historicall 2. It is taken for an affiance of heart embracing the word as good Faith Miraculous which in respect of the obiect may be distinguished into Miraculous or Ordinarie For the obiect of faith is 1. Cor. 13.2 Matth. 21.21 7.22 either some speciall and singular promise for the doing of some extraordinarie effect wherein wee trust by a miraculous actiue faith Marke 9.23 Acts 14.9 Luke 17.19 or it is some speciall promise for the obtayning of some spirituall or bodily good thing after an extraordinarie manner whereon wee trust by a miraculous passiue faith as it is called or else faith doth respect the generall and common promises which are made in the word of life and made good to them that belieue whereon wee rest by faith ordinarie But faith Miraculous and Ordinary are not diuers graces but the same grace exercised about diuers obiects The grounds of faith are different Zanch. de redempt lib. 1. c. 12. de prae 1. Sect. de Fide Thes 2. and so are the effects and adiuncts that flow from thence but the grace it selfe one and the same As the Fathers belieued speciall reuelations and extraordinary promises made to them by the same ordinary faith by which wee belieue the common promises of saluation reuealed in the Word so the singular promises of God made to some Belieuers concerning the working of miracles were embraced by the same faith by which they did adhere to the generall promises of mercy or were raised vp to the doing of acts of loue For that faith which doth receiue the more excellent promises as are they concerning spirituall life and saluation can much more lay hold vpon other promises of an inferiour nature if they be made and certified vnto vs. Faith temporarie That faith which is carried to the generall promises is either a confidence vanishing vncertaine
motiues and inducements experiments and probabilities Many obiects of faith may also bee euident and that which is belieued may also be seene Iohn 20.29 Thomas because thou hast seene me thou hast belieued There is a compossibilitie of faith and euidence in diuers respects whereby they may both stand together in the same man about the same obiect albeit faith rest not vpon that euidence but vpon diuine reuelation Faith and Science are habits that may stand together Faith by authoritie reuealed Knowledge or Science by euident demonstration For albeit faith exceed the dimension of reason yet reason is subordinate to it as sense is to vnderstanding And therefore as it is no inconuenience to say we vnderstand the thing we see no more then is it to say wee belieue that which is euident in diuers respects Many diuine things touching God which are receiued by faith may also bee found out by naturall reason And if things credible by the manifest likelihood of truth which they haue in themselues be made more credible by the knowne condition and qualitie of the vtterer faith relying vpon the authoritie of the reuealer may be strengthened by the probabilitie of the thing Faith is a firme assent 1. Firme as appeareth by the originall of the word and the arguments wherewith it is ioyned I am perswaded of the same thing Acts 13.34 2. Sam. 7.16 Phil. 1.6 2. Tim. 3.14 1. Iohn 3.19 that he which hath begun this good worke in you will performe it vntill the day of Iesus Christ Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and art assured of For thereby we know that we are of the truth and shall before him assure our hearts I am perswaded that neither life Rom. 8.38 nor death nor Angels nor principalities c. where the grounds of this perswasion shew it to bee firme and infallible And it is further manifested by the definition of faith giuen by the Apostle calling it Heb. 11.1 The euideÌ„ce of things not seen because it doth represent those things to the mind by a certaine assent and to the heart by certaine confidence which cannot bee comprehended by reason Yet somtimes accompanied with doubtings But though faith in it selfe be a firme assent yet by reason of our infirmitie it is somtimes accoÌ„panied with doubtings The things belieued of all are one and the same but the habit qualitie or inward strength by which they belieue is not of like force in all In it owne nature faith is opposite to doubting and wauering O thou of little faith Math. 14.31 21.21 wherefore didst thou doubt If yee haue faith and doubt not Whosoeuer shall say vnto this mountaine Take thy selfe away and cast thy selfe into the Sea and shall not wauer in his heart but shall belieue that those things hee saith shall come to passe Marke 11.23 Luke 12.29 Iames 1.6 Therefore aske not what yee shall eate or what yee shall drinke neither let doubtfull thoughts ascend in your hearts Aske in faith and wauer not But through our weaknesse it is often mixed with doubtings Lord I belieue helpe mine vnbeliefe Marke 9.24 Abraham is commended for his faith and propounded by the Holy Chost as a patterne to all his posteritie yet was he not free from infirmities as the storie sheweth in diuers particulars Rom. 4.16 The Apostle writeth thus of the faith of Abraham And being not weake in faith hee considered not his owne bodie now dead when hee was about an hundred yeares olde Rom. 4.19 20. neither yet the deadnesse of Sarahs wombe He staggered not at the promise of God through vnbeliefe but was strong in faith giuing glorie to God He doubted not through infidelitiâ— but of infirmitie he doubted Gen. 16.2 3 4. Gen. 12.13 when he tooke Hagar and requested Sarah to say she was his sister Much is spoken in Scripture of the faith of Dauid but hee was shaken many times as hee confesseth of himselfe Psal 31.22 I said in mine hast I am cut off from before thine eyes Psal 73.13 16 22. 116. â—1 Verily I haue clensed my heart in vaine and washed mine hands in innocencie I said in my haste All men are lyers And though it bee out of question that wee are to endeuour for the perfection as of all other graces of Gods Spirit so of that faith whereby wee giue assent to what God hath reuealed yet by reason of our weaknesse it comes to passe that doubtings doe many times arise in our hearts 2. Absolute The assent that faith giues to the Word of God is absolute and vnlimited viz. to the whole truth promises threatnings commandements It will not take and leaue at pleasure but if it apprehend in one thing what the Lord saith it will receiue his testimonie if it can apprehend it to be of God in euery thing and that simply because it is the Word of God though it exceed humane capacitie and likelihood Acts 24.14 So worship I the God of my Fathers belieuing all things that are written in the Law and the Prophets It is a sinne for a man not to belieue whatsoeuer God hath made knowne in his Word and in that respect it is damnable not to belieue or to misbelieue any thing But through ignorance and infirmitie a Christian may misbelieue many things without the danger of damnation Faith should be entire in all things must bee entire in all fundamentall points without the knowledge and faith of which a man of age and discretion cannot be eased but all errour and misbeliefe doth not destroy the truth of faith no more then euery imperfection doth the truth of righteousnesse A man may misunderstand diuers places of Scripture and thereupon hold that to be true which is false and yet be saued for all this errour Acts 1.6 2.2 3. The Apostles themselues for a long time euen till after the Ascension of our Sauiour into Heauen and till the comming of the Holy Ghost vpon them looked for the establishment of an earthly Kingdome in this world by their Lord and Master Did they not slip into this errour by misbelieuing the prophesies of the Old Testament Psal 72.17 Dan. 1.14 concerning the Messiahs Kingdome yet were they out of danger of damnation and in the state of grace all that time because they rested on Christ as the spirituall Sauiour of their soules that should take away their sinnes and bring them to euerlasting life in Heauen though they erroneously hoped for a temporall kingdome also And after they had receiued the gifts of the Holy Ghost for a time they were ignorant of the conuersion of the Gentiles Acts 11.2 3. Hee that belieueth the truth in one thing because God hath reuealed it will belieue euery thing that he vnderstandeth to be reuealed of God But he that holdeth the foundation of faith firme and stable may dissent in some things from that which is generally
holden without perill of damnation because he discerneth it not to be of God Faith is an euident assent 3. Euident perspicuitie of truth in the obiect apprehended and certaintie of perswasion are two twinnes that liue and die together In this life it is impossible for vs fully to comprehend any one point of Christian faith yet are they plaine and perspicuous in a sort to the spirituall not to the naturall man There is a manifestation of things by reason and by reuelation and there is an euidence direct an euidence by consequence an euidence of the thing in it selfe and by the effect an euidence to the naturall man and an euidence to the spirituall man Matters of faith are manifest by reuelation but to reason vnsearchable incomprehensible seene by faith to the naturall man inuisible incredible The Diuinitie of the Scripture is in it selfe euident to the spirituall man so is it that there is a Prouidence other things are euident from this ground That all truth contained in Scripture is to bee imbraced though with opposition to all other professions and that the profession of Religion is not to be relinquished nor good successe to be despaired of for all the arguments the Deuill the World and the Flesh can oppose against them The apprehension of the ioyes of Heauen cannot be distinct and euident in this life but that God hath prouided such ioyes for his Elect as it is certaine from testimonie of Scripture so it is euident from the present peace of conscience which the faithfull enioy 1. Iohn 3 2. Beloued saith the Apostle now we are the sonnes of God and yet it doth not appeare what we shall be but we know that when he shall appeare we shall be like him for we shall see him as he is The ioyes which be prepared for the godly of which the Apostle stedfastly hoped to be pertaker are as yet vnseene but that they shall actually be accomplished is confirmed by the faithfull promise of God whereof we haue euident and full assurance The Apostle describing faith to bee the euidence of things not seene Heb. 11.1 doth it not to disparage the euidence but rather to set forth the excellencie of that heauenly grace which includes an euident knowledge and apprehension of some things present which the world sees not 4. Discoursiue Faith also is in some sort an assent discoursiue as from manifest experiences of Gods works and fauors wrought and vouchsafed according to the word of promise the Saints inferre a possibilitie or certaintie of like to ensue Thus Dauid The Lord that deliuered me out of the paw of the Lion 1. Sam. 17.37 and out of the paw of the Beare he will deliuer mee out of the hand of this Philistine Nothing is more ordinarie in the Booke of the Psalmes then for the seruants of God to draw conclusions of future protection deliuerance helpe and comfort from present or former blessings Psal 3.3 I call to remembrance my song in the night I commune with mine owne heart Psal 77.6 143.4 and my Spirit made diligent search We receiued the sentence of death in our selues because we should not trust in our selues but in God who raised the dead 2. Cor. 1.9.10 Who deliuered vs from so great a death and doth deliuer vs in whom we trust that yet hereafter he will deliuer vs. I feruently looke for and hope that in nothing I shall be ashamed but that with all confidence as alwayes so now Phil. 1.20 Christ shall be magnified in my bodie whether it be by life or death I was deliuered out of the mouth of the Lion 2. Tim. 4.17 18. And the Lord will deliuer me from euery euill worke and will preserue me vnto his heauenly Kingdome § 3. Moreouer Iustifying faith is an obedientiall confidence §. 3. Faith is an affiance or confidence or affiance conioyned with affection of pietie simply and in comparison cleauing to the mercie of God in Iesus Christ as better then life and to the Commandements of God as necessary good worthy to bee stucke vnto not only whilest considered in themselues or in generall or without such encumbrances and occurrences as doe often interpose or hinder practice but euen whilest actually compared with present losse of any sensuall good thing or infliction of any temporall euill wherewith the World the Deuill or the Flesh can oppose their price That faith is an affiance or resting vpon the promises appeareth by the seuerall words vsed to expresse the nature of that faith or beliefe which the Lord requireth of his people to the end they might receiue any blessing from him or haue his protection or assistance The first word is translated Belieue 2. Chron. 20.20 Gen. 45.26 Psal 27.13 but signifieth such a beliefe as is opposed to fainting I had fainted vnlesse I had belieued to see the goodnesse of the Lord in the land of the liuing And it implyeth trust in the Word of God as sure and stable it is sometimes translated stedfast or constant Psal 78.37 Psal 78.22 and expounded by trust They belieued not in God and trusted not in his saluation The second word is opposed to feeblenesse of Mind feare and doubt and imports a 1. Chron. 5.20 to trust securely Psal 78.53 146. Pro. 28.17 25. Ps 4.8 22.9 25.2 Isay 12.3 Psal 112.7 118 8. Psal 125.1 Prou. 3.5 Psal 118.8 Psal 2.12 Psal 11.1 Psal 36.7 Ru h. 2.12 Psal 64.10 Nah. 1.7 I will trust and not be afraid Hee shall not be afraid of euill tidings his heart is fixed trusting in the Lord. They that trust in the Lord shall bee as Mount Sion which cannot be remoued but abideth for euer The third is rendred to trust but signifieth to betake himselfe to one as to his b castle or hiding place Blessed are all they that put their trust in him How excellent is thy louing kindnesse O Lord therefore the children of men put their trust vnder the shadow of thy wings The Lord recompence thy worke and a full reward be giuen thee of the Lord God of Israel vnder whose wings thou art come to trust The righteous shall be glad in the Lord and shall trust in him The Lord is good a strong hold in the day of trouble and hee knoweth them that trust in him Hence God is called our protection or hiding place to which wee may flie in trouble and finde shelter Psal 46.1 Ioel 3 16. God is our refuge and strength a very present helpe in time of trouble The fourth is to leane vpon euen as a man would stay himselfe on a staffe wherewith he is vnderpropped c 2. Chron. 16.7 8. 2. Chron. 14.11 Prou. 3.5 Isay 31.1 2 Chron. 13.18 Because thou hast relied vpon the King of Syria and not relied on the Lord thy God therefore is the Host of the King of Syria escaped out of thy hand Were not the
And as their faith was such were their workes For it appeareth that they had oyle in their lampes and that their lampes were lighted although by long tarrying of the Bridegroome they were afterwards quenched Our Aduersaries teach that these Virgins had aspired to more then ordinary perfection in the Church and had they gotten this without good workes It is a strange perfection that can bee attained without all good deedes spirituall or corporall But they continued not they will say in their former charitie when yet they presumed strongly on the assurance of their saluation as is apparant by their confident demanding to bee let in for they said Lord Lord open vnto vs. Indeed they neuer had either true faith or loue and therefore could not continue therein For if euer they had beene pertakers of either in truth they would haue perseuered in both vnto the end and where the one is vtterly wanting the other neuer was Their earnest demaunding to be let in shewes rather their desire then their hope and yet how many hope presumptuously without true faith in Christ Faith is grounded vpon the Word of God and the thing which it belieueth is that which the Lord hath said Rom. 20.8 19. Whatsoeuer we conceiue of God besides his Word it is imagination opinion presumption but faith it is not But the Word of God denounceth destruction to the workers of iniquitie to the fruitlesse and barren fig-tree how can it then be said that they that worke iniquitie that bring forth no good fruit haue faith to belieue assuredly that they shall be saued The Apostle makes mention of some who professed that they knew God Titâ—â— 1.16 but were indeed vnbelieuers as the vulgar reads it And we know it is often threatned in the Prophets that the wicked shall cry Prou. 1.2 â— and not be heard call in feare but not in faith for they that in faith call vpon the Name of the Lord shall bee saued Rom. 10.15 But the Apostle Iames as they obiect supposeth plainly that a man may haue faith without good workes that is Iames 2.14 Bellar. vbi supra without charitie saying What shall it profit if a man say he hath faith and hath no workes Can faith saue him Wherein they take for granted what can neuer be proued that the Apostle takes woâ—kes for charitie Doe they thinke that they against whom the Apostle writes would grant that they were without the loue of God The Gnostickes were neuer so absurd But the question was whether a man that professed Iesus Christ to be the Sauiour of the world was not by this saued how lewdly soeuer he demeaned himselfe And it is apparant by the text that the Apostle speakes of an historicall dead faith a saith in profession as much differing from that whereto Paul ascribeth righteousnesse as a liue man doth from a dead or a bodie endued with life and motion from a painted or carued Image Therefore hee compares â—t to the good wordes of him that wisheth well to the poore man but doth nothing at all for him As therefore it is no true charitie which professeth good will to helpe and helpeth not so it is no true faith which is seuered from good workes To this tendeth his question What auaileth it Iam. 2.14 though a man say that hee hath faith and his other demand Iam. 2.18 Shew me thy faith The vttermost he extendeth it to by instance is a meere historicall faith Thou belieuest that there is one God Iam. 2.19 Hiâ— purpose is to shew that faith if it be truly professed hath taken roote within Jam. 2.20 from whence spring by obedience the fruits of all good workes and if it giue not forth it selfe by good workes it is a dead no true and liuing faith The men against whom hee disputes did make profession of Iustifying faith Iam. 2.20 22. but the Apostle brings the true liuely and working faâ—th of Abraham as opposite to that idle dead and breath-lesse faith professed by them and saying Was not Abraham our Father iustified by workes when he offered his Sonne Isaac vpon the Altar hee meaneth no more then if hee had thus spoken If Abraham had said as they did whose emptie faith hee disapproues I haue faith but had not proued his sayings true by his deeds or readinesse to offer vp his only Sonne when God commanded him for actually hee did not offer him hee had not beene iustified before God Why because hee had not belieued in such sort as Paul meant when hee saith Heb. 11.19 By faith Abraham offered vp Isaac when hee was tried which was the act of his faith as the text expresly noteth Yea further to shew the vanitie of them that boasted of Iustifying faith because they professed faith in God he addeth The Deuils belieue also and tremble shewing Iam. 2.19 that the Deuils goe so farre as to belieue the truth of God yea further for they tremble and therefore the faith professed in word by those boasters cannot bee the same with that which the Scripture nameth for a Iustifying faith They cannot shuffle this ouer by telling vs that Christian faith when it is naked and void of good workes Bellar. de Iust lib. 1. cap. 15 §. ad tertium W. B. against Perkins reformed Catholike Whether faith may be without charitie may well be likened vnto the Deuils faith in two points First in both of them there is a perfect knowledge of all things reuealed Secondly W.B. against Perkins reformed Catholike this knowledge shall not steed them any whit But in many things they differ but this one is principall That Christians out of a godly and deuout affection doe willingly submit their vnderstanding to the rules of faith But the Deuill against his will belieues all that God hath reuealed This is but a poore euasion for if they will heare their brethren of Rhemes Rhem. annet in Math. 15. Sect. 1 they tell them plainly that Saint Iames doubted not to call a dead faith without workes the faith not of Christians but of Deuils The Apostle then doth not liken Christian Iustifying faith to the faith of Deuils in some points only but proues the dead faith professed by some not to bee true and sauing faith indeed because the Deuils belieue in that manner The first point wherein the faith of Christians and of Deuils is said to agree comprehendeth the fulnesse and perfection of that which they call Catholike or Christian Faith which consisteth in belieuing all to bee true that God hath reuealed No more is there in Abrahams faith if we consider the act of faith and no lesse in the Deuill and the same in euery Catholike Christian according to their doctrine That which is added to shew the difference betwixt the faith of Christians and the faith of Deuils is little to the purpose For it is not taken from the nature of faith it selfe but from those things
Peter and the rest of the Apostles for he made answere for them all Math. 16.16 Ioh 6 68. Belar de Iustif l. 1. chap. 8. as the question was propounded to them all was no more in words but of Christs office Thou art Christ and his nature The sonne of the liuing God But shall wee thinke the faith of the Apostles to bâ—e nothing but a bare assent of Minde to that which they professed of Christ Thâ—n shall we make the Deuill himselfe to be as good and true a belieuer as the Apostles for he professed as much O Iesus of Nazaret Mar. 1.24 Luke 4.34 I know who thou art c. Noe doubt the Apostles rested vpon Christ for saluation and belieued in him to bee that to their soules and for their vse and comfort which they belieued him to be The subiect matter of their faith in that point was that Iesus was the Christ the manner of belieuing was with the heart relying vpon him for saluation The faith of Abraham was not a bare assent giuen to the promise of God but a confidenec in the speciall mercie of God for hee rested vpon the pâ—omise not onely in regard of his posteritie but also in regard of Christ according to that which is saide In thy seede shall all nations of the earth be blessed which seede the Apostle teacheth to be Christ Gal. 3.16 and the blessing he interpreteth to bee redemption from the curse of the law and iustification by faith Gal. 3.8 Abraham then belieuing the remission of sinnes in and through Iesus Christ of necessitie it will follow that his faith was directed vnto and exercised about the speciall mercy of God in Iesus Christ How then doth the Apostle set out Abrahams full beliefe in this that he was assured that hee who had promised was able also to doe it Rom. 4.21 Bellarm. vbi supra Rhem. annot in Rom. 4.14 Sect. 10. Not because Abrahams faith did iustifie him as he did belieue the power of God but because his iustifying faith which was fixed vpon the gracious promise did sustaine it selfe by the consideration of Gods power in time of tryall betweene the promise and the execution Abraham had a promise of seed but the execution is deserrod whereupon his faith is assailed thus Abraham thy body is dead thy wife hopelesse that way which things foiled Sarah for a time Now when Abrahams faith on the promises is thus set vpon Rom. 4 2â— against these arguments of vnbeliefe faith opposeth the alsufficient power of God and sustaineth it selfe with this consideration God is able As another time when he was tempted to offer vp his sonne in sacrifice he verily belieued he should receiue him againe Heb. 11.19 because God was able to raise him vp againe Beliefe of Gods power is not the act of iustifying faith as it iustifies but the consideration of Gods power is a prop and stay to faith against manifold temptations And so wee shall finde the Almightie power of God often aledged to confirme the weake and wauering heart As for Sarahs laughing thinking it impossible to haue a childe the Lord saide to Abraham Gen. 8.14 Is any thing hard or impossible to God And againe to Moses obiecting whether all the fish in the sea should bee gathered for food for Israel in the wildernesse The Lord answered Is the Lords hand waxed short Num. 11.23 thou shalt see whether my word shall come to passe or not And to the virgin Mary desiring to bee further conformed touching the promise of God the Angell makes answer Luk. 1.37 with God nothing is impossible As for the faith of the Centurion so much commended by our Sâ—uiour Christ Luk. 7.9 it might bee a steppe or meane by which he wâ—s raised of God to a true faith for iustification by the Messias or it may bee it was some effect of a iustifying faith but in it selfe as he did onely belieue the power of Christ to heale his seruant it did not iustifie Our Aduersaries themselues will not say that naked assent to this truth that Christ by his bare word was of power to cure his seruant absent is sufficient to iustification which yet is the substance of his confessiion If they answer that the profession of his faith is here mentioned according to the present occasion They must withall confesse it followeth not that because none other act of his faith is here expressed therefore there was nothing further in his faith vnto iustification before God Surely if hee be belieued to saluation he belieued somewhat else that made him to belieue what is here noted he belieued some what else that made him to say Luke 7.6 Lord I am not worthy that thou should'st enter vnder my roofe Christ is euery where made the thing which faith embraceth to saluation and whom it doth looke vnto and respect as it doth make vs righteous in the sight of God God so loued the world Iohn 3.16 that he gaue his onely begotten sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Iohn 11.25 I am the resurrection and the life he that belieueth in me though he were dead yet shall he liue And by him all that belieue Act. 13.39 are iustified from all things from which yee could not be iustified by the law of Moses Belieue on the Lord Iesus Christ Act. 16.31 and thou shalt be saued and thy house That they may receiue forgiuenesse of sinnes and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in mee Act. 26.18 Being iustified freely by his grace through the redemption which is in Iesus Christ whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloud for the remission of sinnes that are past through the forbearance of God Rom. 3.25.26 Eph. 1.15 Act. 15.11 Iohn 1.12 Gal. 3.26 It is with vs as with malefactors the kings pardon onely receiued doth acquit them and restore them to libertie and Gods mercie in Christ couering sinne receiued by a liuely faith doth set vs free from feare of damnation It is true that iustifying faith doth giue assent to euery article of faith and cleaue to euery Commandement but it obtaineth remission of sinnes as it receiueth Gods pardon in Christ To him giue all the Prophets witnesse that through his Name Acts 10.43 whosoeuer belieueth in him shall receiue remission of sinnes Righteousnesse is eueâ—y where tied vnto faith euen to faith in Christ whom only it doth and can looke vnâ—o as it iustifieth I count all things but losse Rom. 3.22 10.4 Phil. 3.8 9. for the excellent knowledge sake of Christ Iesus my Lord for whom I haue counted all things losse and doe iudge them to bee dung that I might winne Christ And might bee found in him that is not hauing mine owne righteousnesse which is of the Law but that which is through the faith of Christ the
belieued as out of the Word of God which is not found in the Word of God expressely Bellar. de Iustif l. 3. cap. 8. §. 1. or by consequence but whatsoeuer is found there expresly or may euidently by direct consequence be deduced thence that may be belieued as out of the Word of God Now howsoeuer it be not said in so many syllables Peter Thomas Cornelius thy sinnes are remitted to thee belieuing yet euidently so much may be concluded out of those generall promises Euery man that belieueth shall haue eternall life for the vniuersall doth include it particular Therefore the messengers of the Lord of Host doe giue notice to their Congregations that the matter which they proclaime in the Name of the Lord doth concerne them and euery of them saying in effect Acts 13.26 3.26 2.38 2. Cor. 5.20 To you is the word of this saluation sent What they say to all men they say to euery man what to penitents to euery penitent what to Belieuers to euery Belieuer what to sinners and vngodly to euery sinner God gaue his Law to all Israel speaking to all as if hee had spoken namely and particularly to euery one Thou shalt haue no other Gods c. Exod. 20.1 2. May not ought not a man to inferre thence I must haue none other Gods c. The promise of the Gospell runnes thus If thou shalt confesse with thy mouth the Lord Iesus Rom. 10.9 and belieue in thy heart that God raised him from the dead thou shalâ— be saued Is not this spoken to euery man particularly May not hee as out of the Word inferre If I belieue I shall bee saued Our Sauiour Christ had said nothing namely to Paul and Silas as touching the Iailer that if hee did belieue he should be saued But out of that vniuersall Iohn 3.16 Act. 16.31 Whosoeuer belieueth shall bee saued they proclaime comfort to him in speciall Belieue thou and thou shalt be saued There is nothing found in Scripture expressely touching this or that mans resurrection in particular is it not then to bee belieued out of the Word The Scripture saith to him that belieueth Thou shalt inherit eternall life as much as it doth to any particular man now liuing Thou shalt rise againe Because our Sauiour said to the Apostles Iohn 20.23 Whosoeuer sinnes yee remit they are remitted our Aduersaries though falsly would collect that their Priests haue power to absolue a man from all his sinnes Doe they know assuredly that what was spoken to the Apostles was spoken also to their Priests though there bee no particular mention of them in the Gospell and will they not allow vs to inferre a particular from a generall Psalm 23.1 Iob. 19.25 Dauid could say The Lord is my shepheard Iob I know that my Redeemer liueth which they belieued out of the Word grounding themselues vpon the promises of mercie And wee now liuing by the same faith hauing the same pretious promises being led by the same Spirit may out of the word of life be assured that our sinnes are forgiuen and couered Moreouer euery faithfull soule in particular doth finde Psalm 103.3.4 heare and reade in the word Who forgiueth all thine iniquities and healeth all thine infirmities To euery faithfull soule in speciall the Lord saith Isay 43.25 Psalm 103.17 Mica 7.19 Ier. 31.34 Rom. 11.22 Eph. 5.10 Math. 19.17 I euen I am hee that blotteth out thine iniquities for mine owne sake and remember thy sinnes no more This hee speaketh to singular belieuers not to some persons only as it is euident in that the Scripture doth in vniuersall repeate the same thing What our Sauiour said to the young man If thou would'st enter into life keepe the Commaundements the papists teach that is spoken to all men and if a man fulfill that condition hee may belieue to be saued Looke how they know the words spoken to the young man so many hundred yeares past to be directed vnto them by the same rule may euery faithfull soule interest himselfe in all the gracious and louely speeches wherewith God from time to time hath comforted his people and take vnto himselfe those promises answers and assurances that God hath at any time made and giuen vnto them resoluing of all the rest that which in one case the Apostles exemplifyeth of that that was written of the Iustification of Abraham that those things were not written for them onely but for theÌ„ also who belieue as they had done Rom. 4.23 The word then speaketh in particular to them that belieue but can a Christian know be assured that he doth truly belieue Such as truly belieue may know they belieue as hee that hath a iewell in his hand may know that hee hath it Paul did know on whom he had belieued 2. Tim. 1.12 the poore man in the Gospell cryeth Lord I belieue Dauid saith I belieued Marke 9.24 Psal 116.10 2. Cor. 4.13 and therefore I spake Hezekiah prayeth Lord remember mee how I haue walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart Iohn concludeth thus Esay 38.3 4. 1. Iohn 3-24 Hereby wee know that he abideth in vs euen by the Spirit which he hath giuen vs. How could we say euery one we belieue if wee might not know it Can wee speake that truly whereof wee can haue no certaintie When I see one or trust to a mans word promising me this or that I know I see him trust to him and rest on him for that hee hath promised Shall I by faith see Christ the Sonne and rest on him and yet know no such thing 1. Iohn 3.19 1. Cor. 2.11 Carnall confidence may be discerned why then should it be impossible for a true Belieuer to know that hee doth belieue The Spirit of man discerneth what is in man he knoweth what is in himselfe though not euer the measure or quantitie thereof Hee that loueth his Brother knoweth the loue wherewith he loueth him and he that belieueth in God may know the faith wherewith he belieueth Many beguile themselues while they stand in opinion they doe belieue and belieue not at all What then Shall hee that belieueth vnfainedly be altogether vncertaine whether he belieue or no There is that boasteth when his soule hath naught yet men whom God hath blessed with abundance may know that they be rich Many are deceiued in matters of faith and true worship of God shall not a Christian then bee certaine of his Religion A man that dreameth of honoâ—r promotion plentie and abundance may liue in infamie and disgrace penurie and hunger and yet they that bee promoted to honour and liue in plentie may assuredly bee perswaded of what God hath giuen them Some mens senses are deluded shall euery man therefore bee in suspence of whatsoeuer hee seeth or heareth He that is falsly perswaded of his good estate and strong faith deceiueth his owne soule shall he therefore that
it The like may bee noted of their feare and doubting at other times Yea that assurance that is had by extraordinary reuelation is not altogethâ—r free from feares and doubâ—s shaking sometimes the confidence of that which a man hath receiued immediately from the oracle of Gods owne mouth or by speciall messengers directed from God for certificate in that behalfe Which is to be seene in the examples of Abraham Isaac Dauid Gen. 12.12 13. Psal 31.22 1. Sam. 27.1 and others to whom God had giuen speciall promise of his protection and fauour and yet vpon occasions they haue bewrayed great infirmitie in the apprehension thereof And if this befall to faith in those things which are extraordinarily reuealed for it is faith ordinarie by which a man belieueth such extraordinarie reuelations much more wee may assure our selues it befalleth there where wee haue no other but ordinarie reuelation by the written Word of God Also the Word of God once spoken and often reiterated is of equall certaintie in it selfe but to helpe our weaknesse the Lord goeth ouer one and the same thing againe and againe Things belieued are in themselues more certaine then things seene but not apprehended by vs with such assurance Of these who doubteth of the other who doubteth not at some times The Prophets our Sauiour Christ and his Apostles doe labour oft to confirme vnto vs matters of faith by reasons similitudes signes examples incurring into the senses not only to better our vnderstanding but to confirme our faith which is an argument that to vs things sensible are oft more certaine then things belieued though in themselues more vncertaine Moreouer conclusions theologicall are in themselues as certaine as are the principles vpon which they are grounded but alwayes they are not so infallible to our vnderstanding and conscience because the inference is not so well readily and plainly perceiued as hath beene shewed before And so though the saluation of the Belieuer be as certaine as the word of promise vpon which his faith is surely builded yet it is not so infallibly knowne to the Belieuer himselfe it being farre more easie to conceiue that a belieuer shal be saued then to assure the conscience that he is a true Belieuer What the Lord hath immediately reuealed that faith receiueth with the greatest certaintie but what is concluded out of the Word from one proposition immediately diuine and another certainly knowne by some other light that may be belieued with infallible assurance And so he that is iustified and hath obtained remission of sinnes may assuredly know or belieue that hee hath receiued mercie of the Lord otherwise he can neuer truly bee thankefull to God for that inestimable benefit For he that knoweth not whether hee hath receiued it or not nor can assure himselfe of it without intollerable and inexcusable presumption how should he from the heart giue God thankes for this vnspeakable fauour But to thinke that mortall men are neuer bound to giue God thankes for the greatest benefit that is bestowed vpon them in this world is most absurd It is obiected That in this state of temptation Bellar. de Iustif lib. 3. cap. 8. §. Tertia ratio such is our infirmitie assurance would engender pride And immediate and perfect assurance such as is free from all assault and impeachment of feare and doubt might peraduenture by the corruption of our nature bee abused to securitie and pride But such perfection in this life wee attaine not vnto because the Lord knowes it not expedient As wee haue a measure of true righteousnesse though weake and imperfect so haue wee a measâ—re of true and comfortable assurance against feare and doubt though by reason of our weaknesse mixed with many feares and doubts Thus the Lord deales with vs in great wisdome knowing our inabilitie to weild any better condition that by the sweetnesse of grace wee might bee allured to yeeld chearefull obedience The benefits that come vnto vs by temptations and bee sustained in temptations and by the sence of our weakenesse together with the sharpnesse of temptation feare and perplexitie might be kept from swelling in pride securitie loue of carnall libertie negligence to preserue our faith and such like And as sometimes by his admirable wisdome he maketh sinne the whetstone of righteousnes so by affliction and trouble by dâ—strusts and fearefull doubts hee whetteth and sharpeneth our faith and assurance which by fighting increaseth and the longer it wrastleth the stronger it waxeth whilest faith powreth forth Prayer and powring forth of Prayer obtaineth further strength of faith Knocking makes the linke to burne more clearely and the shaking of a tree by stormie blasts settles the root and the tree more firmely so temptations troubles and feares by the wise prouidence of God make for the increase and confirmation of faith As a man in danger of drowning catcheth for hold to saue himselfe so whilest the comfort of life makes offer to goe from vs wee take the better hold thereof and it becomes so much the more pretious and deare vnto vs. By our corruption vertues become poysons and by the wisdome of God sinnes are made medicines But as wee doe not condemne vertue though our corrupt hearts doe sometimes abuse it nor commend sinne for that it is vsed as a spurre to righteousnesse no more doe we approue doubting for the good that God workes by it nor disallow full assurance because of the euill that might ensue to vs thereby abusing the same In briefe pride is the daughter of corruption not of filiall confidence nor may it bee condemned for it because that verde springeth from another root §. 10. § 10. A man may belieue say the Romanists that he shall haue eternall life if hee keepe the Commandements but because he is not assured that he shall so doe he remaineth in feare And very iustly may he be in feare or rather in despaire that looketh for eternall life vpon no other condition The Apostle indeed doth plainly debarre him from all hope and expectation thereof when he saith So many as are of the workes of the Law Gal. 3.10 are vnder the curse for it is written Cursed is euery one c It is not for them that professe the faith of Christ by their keeping of the Commandements to expect the obtaining of eternall life Gal. 5.4 Rom. 4.14 Gal. 3.18 1. John 5.10 11 Rom. 6.23 Yee are fallen from grace saith the Apostle that will be iustified by the Law If they which bee of the Law bee heires then is faith made void The Commandements of God are laid before Belieuers not as the cause for obtaining of eternall life but as the way to walke in vnto eternall life assured vnto vs by the free promise and gift of God And of this promise and gift of God the keeping of Gods Commandements is a part who hath said I will put my Law into their hearts Ier. 31.33 Ezek. 36.27 Ephes 2.10 and
and temporall For so they should haue made them their arme who were but flesh What is alledged out of Exodus Moses speaketh in reproach of the Israelites Ier. 17.5 who belieued neither the Lord nor Moses touching the promise of their deliuery out of Egypt vntill such time as they hauing quite passed the Red Sea did see their enemies dead in the Sea And though they belieued the truth of the Lord Psal 106.12 and the word of his seruant when they had the accomplishment of his promise yet they did not confidently betake themselues to the Lord as their onely refuge and rest vnder the shadow of his wings For the Lord complaineth often of their infidelitie towards him Psal 78 22. Heb. 3 1â— and the historie makes mention of their distrust murmurâ—ng and rebellion against the Lord. In the other place the people are praysed as those who rested in the word of the Prophet before that the promise was effected But they leaned not vpon the Prophets as authours of their helpe neither had that beene prayse-worthy in them nay it had beene detestable Idolatrie If they will haue the Hebrew preposition to bee of force in those places by Moses and the Prophets we are to vnderstand the word taught by Moses and the Prophets from God as the Chaldee explaineth it they belieued in the Word of the Lord and in the prophesie of Moses his seruant The exposition of both texts may bee taken out of that of the Lord to Moses Exod. 19.9 Iohn 5.45 Loe I come vnto thee in a thicke cloud that the people may heare when I speake with thee and belieue thee for euer that is that they may receiue thee for a faithfull and true Prophet and belieue in the word that I shall make knowne vnto them by thee And as the Israelites are said to be baptized into Moses 1. Cor. 10.1 that is into the doctrine or law of Moses whereof he was a Minister so are they said to belieue in Moses and the Prophets that is in the word which they taught from God They were the instruments and Ministers of the Lord and ministerially the people belieued in them that is in the Word of the Lord published by them Of Sion it is said the poore of his people shall trust in it Esay 14.32 The meaning is not that the faithfull shall put their trust in Sion as wee must hope in God but that the inhabitants of Sion shall dwell in a quiet and secure place as the Prophets often affirme that saluation is in Sion Ioel 2.32 It may well bee translated The poore of his people shall betake themselues vnto it Iob 24.8 Psal 104.18 as vnto a place of protection and refuge by the blessing of God not as vnto the chiefe stay and prop of their soules They further obiect that the Apostle referreth faith and loue to the Saints saying Phil. 5. verse Bellar. de beatitud Sanct. lib. 1. cap. 20. Verse 6. Hearing of thy loue and faith which thou hast towards the Lord Iesus and toward all Saints But in this place faith is referred only to Christ and loue to the brethren as it appeareth in the two verses next following In the former whereof faith is restrained vnto Christ and in the latter the loue here mentioned is carried to the brethren which appeareth also in that other where vpon the same occasion he so distinguisheth faith and loue that faith is appropriated vnto Christ and loue referred to the Saints For the very words also the Apostle hath so fenced them Ephes 1.15 Col. 1 4. that although the truth were not otherwise cleare our Aduersaries can haue no aduantage for their doctrine of pinning our most holy faith vpon the sleeue of euery Saint For although hee haue coupled Charitie and Faith together which in other Epistles hee doth distinctly referre the one to Christ the other to the faithfull yet hee hath vsed prepositions which note that faith must passe no fâ—rther then to Christ as charitie goeth no further in this place but vnto the Saints For where the preposition 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 is such as might haue serued both to note our faith towards Christ and our charitie towards our Brethren hee declares that hee would not haue Faith and Charitie carried to one and the same obiect by the choice of seuerall bands of prepositions wherewith to tie each of these vertues with the subiect whereunto they belong But to goe no further then to the Rhemists translation can they say that we haue charitie in the Lord Iesus If with the later clause further remoued which is towards all Saints they will haue both Charitie and Faith conioyned yet it followeth much more that with this clause in the Lord Iesus which is neerer vnto charitie then the other they ought both also to be coupled If this be absurd much more is it that vpon this ground of coupling Faith and Charitie together they would haue them both carried and applied vnto these words vnto the Saints As for the order of words and coupling things together which are to be referred distinctly the like is to be found in other passages of holy Scripture Math. 12.22 Againe Loue and Faith may be put for faithfull firme and sted ast loue the like whereunto we may often find But by this no resting of the place our Aduersaries are driuen not only to belieue in the Catholike Church but also in euery seuerall member of the Catholike Church For seeing the Apostle commendeth Phiâ—â—mon for his loue towards euery Saint that came vnto him it followeth that if as they say he commendeth faith towards the Saints hee commendeth it towards euery man a part and so euery Christian is to belieue in other which our Aduersaries will not affirme CHAP. X. Of the Effects Subiect and Degrees of Iustifying Faith § 1. MAny and excellent are the fruits and effects of faith §. 1. The benefits and effects of Faith for which cause it hath beene adorned with many singular titles of hohour It is called the gift of gifts the soule of our soule the root of an honest life the character of the sonnes of God the key whereby the treasures which are in Christ are opened vnto vs the mother of sound ioy and nurse of a good conscience the hand whereby we apprehend Christ the eye whereby wee see the inuisible things of God the mouth whereby we receiue the seed of saluation the pledge of our eternall inheritance the earnest of our peace with God the seale of our election the ladder whereby we certainly and safely ascend vp to Heauen the shield of a faithfull soule the sword whereby we beate and wound our enemies the token of our vnion in Christ our victorie and the band whereby we are vnited vnto the chiefe good The fruits of faith are diuided into two Heads Internall and Externall which the Schoolemen call Elicite and Imperate But to speake of them
Hope Loue Iustice Temperance which it is to be brought vnto In which regard as liuing bodies need daily food that they might grow vnto perfection of nature so soules hauing grace haue need to goe ouer with the vse of the meanes as well as others that the diuine nature may be more and more enlarged getting vp as the light of the Sunâ—e doth in the aire which it inlightneth Seuenthly It is good to call to minde the experience of the faith and ioy which wee haue had at any time before 2. Cor. 10. remembring that former comforts are as a bill obligatorie vnder Gods hand to assure that hee will not forsake vs. For whom God loueth hee loueth to the end Iohn 13.1 because he is vnchangeable the same for euer which consideration may serue to settle vs in assurance of Gods loue towards vs more then a childe can bee of his Fathers good-will or a wife of her bodily Husbands fauour for they are mutable Eightly Obserue the opportunities when it pleaseth God in speciall manner to draw nigh vnto vs and make vse of them God visiteth his children sometimes in tender compassion and knocketh at the doore of their hearts inuiting them to diuine and heauenly communication with him Sometimes he inclineth their soules to fresh sorrow for sinne sometimes hee refresheth them with more liuely apprehension of the ioyes of Heauen sometimes they feele the motions of the Spirit quicke and liuely vpon what occasions soeuer or in what manner it shall please God to offer himselfe vnto vs it stands vs vpon to make vse of that for our quickning to nourish the motions of his Spirit and by feruent Prayer to entreat the continuance of his presence Ninthly Faith increaseth by exercise and groweth by continuall vse If wee learne to liue by faith in matters of this life both when wee haue and when wee want the meanes and rest vpon God for successe in our lawfull calings without distracting care we shall with more facilitie and ease depend vpon the free promises of grace for mercie and forgiuenesse CHAP. XII Of the temptations whereby Satan seeketh to batter downe our faith and how he may be resisted §. 1. Ephes 6.16 1. Pet. 5.8 § 1. THe Deuill knoweth right well that faith is the band whereby we are knit vnto Christ the shield whereby wee quench the fierie darts of the Deuill the ground-worke of a godly life and the safe castle of a Christian soule If faith bee weakened our zeale cooleth our courage abateth our life is tedious our Prayers faint the exercises of Religion vncomfortable and all the graces of Gods Spirit pine and languish Also by doubting and distrust wee dishonour God lay open our hearts to temptations discourage others and tie our owne hands that we cannot fight against our deadly enemies For these causes Satan endeuours by all meanes to hinder as the kindly taking so the growth of faith that such as he cannot hold in the chaines of sinne he might make their liues dead Temptations against Faith wearisome vnprofitable by doubting and discomfort First Satan suggesteth 1. Worthlesnesse that it is horrible presumption for such vile sinners and worthlesse wretches to perswade themselues of Gods speciall loue and fauour And to this end he spareth not to set forth the maiestie iustice and puritie of the Lord that it might strike the greater terrour into the wounded conscience For the repelling of this temptation Remedie The sence of our vnworthinesse must not discourage vs from belieuing it is to be knowne and remembred that Gods mercie fauour promises and benefits are all free which hee vouchsafeth offereth bestoweth without any respect of worthinesse or deserts of his meere grace and vndeserued loue in Iesus Christ And therefore as when wee are most worthy in our owne conceit there is no reason wee should presume the more so when wee find our selues vnworthy there is no cause why wee should hope the lesse For the ground of our confidence is the promise of free and vndeserued mercie made in Christ Iesus to miserable forlorne sinners who see and acknowledge themselues to be more vile then the mire in the street And this sets forth the prayse of Gods mercie so much the more that it is afforded to such base abiects who deserue nothing but to bee cast forth and trodden vnderfoot Should the prisoner doubt of his Princes mercie when hee heareth his pardon read and seeth it sealed because he hath merited no such kindnesse Againe it is good to call to minde and seriously to consider what strong encouragements wee haue to receiue the promises and how wee are not more desirous to belieue then God is wee should so doe For God doth through loue intreat vs of friendship counsell vs 2. Cor. 5.19 20. 1. Tim. 1.15 1. Iohn 3 23 24. and of his authoritie being able to performe commandeth vs as if hee would hereby shew that none hath authoritie to hinder or forbid the same And therefore wee must be warned to beware of all occasions that may darken or put out the light of our confidence as reasoning or questioning against our selues for yeelding to this truth lately receiued c. § 2. Satan will here obiect to the weake and timorous Christian that hee knowes not whether he bee of the number of Gods elect §. 2. 2. They know not whether they be elected and therefore hath nothing to doe with the promises If the Deuill set vpon vs in this sort wee must hold such suggestions to arise from the Spirit of errour Remedy 1. Ioh. 3.23 1. Tim 6.12 Heb. 10.35 Math. 13.31 Ioel 2.6.7 Ioh 10.27 Satan is not to be hearkened vnto nor reasoned with when he tempteth to Infidelitie Gen. 3.1.2.3 because they are contrarie to the voyce of God who saith to the afflicted conscience that is wearie of sin Belieue lay hold on eternall life cast not a way thy confidence Be established confirmed and abound in faith Therefore we must lend no eare to such whisperings of the old serpent but cleaue fast to the word of the Lord and cut off all contrarie inchantments It was the first degree to the vtter vndoing of her selfe and posteritie in our Grandmother Eue that shee opened her eare to a false and lying spirit in the mouth of a Serpent which vnder a faire colour perswaded or rather couertly inticed and drew her to eate of the forbidden fruite The decree of God which is secret in the bosome of the most High is not the rule according to which we must walke but the word of life reuealed in holy Scriptures wee must take for our direction Eph. 1.13 If God make offer of mercie and forgiuenesse vnto vs in the ministerie of the Gospell which is the word of truth the word of saluation wee are bound to receiue it without looking into the booke of his election and if wee receiue them truely we shall bee saued as the Lord hath spoken
fruit of grace is called to come vnto Christ the fountaine of liuing waters that in him and by him he might be eased refreshed made fruitfull This gratious inuitation the poore soule must lay hold vpon and say within himselfe I will draw neere vnto the God of my saluation and trust in him for I haue his firme and stable promise that I shall be watered with grace and refreshed with comfort If I be hungrie hee hath plentie of prouision if barren drie and withered with him there is abundance of grace that I may be enriched § 10. The Deuill who goeth about like a roaring Lion seeking whom hee may deuoure will not spare to suggest to the contrite and humbled soule that God cannot or will not forgiue his transgressions which haue beene most hainous for qualitie many for number §. 10. 1. Pet. 5.8 10. Their sins be many in number and hainous for qualitie and in which hee hath long liued and continued And it may be the Lord would hereby correct our former conceits in the dayes of our vanitie Remedie that of all things pardon of sinnes is most easily obtained that it was but a sleight and small thing to sinne against God that wee might well enough take our fill of sinne for the time and turne to the Lo d in old age and sicknesse But withall this thought must be held to arise from Satan and shunned as repugnant to the truth of God The hainousnesse or number of our sins make vs not vncapable of mercie For the promise of pardon is made to repentant sinners without limitation to any time person qualitie or number of offences And for the remedie and remouall of this temptation first wee should humble our selues before God for our light esteeme of sinne and procrastination or delayes 2. Cor. 1.3 Esay 55.7 Iames 5.7 Ier. 3.1 2.3.13 14. 11. They feele the heauie burden of Gods wrath And then consider the endlesnes of Gods mercies in Christ the price which was paid for our redemption the sweet promises propounded in the Word the stablenesse and perpetuitie of the Couenant and the examples of great sinners receiued to mercie And what if a man sensibly feele the heauie burthen of Gods wrath and plainely discerne his frowning and angry countenance Though sence of Gods loue faile faith may continue strong Remedie Iob 13.15 Heb. 11.1 Faith may bee strong when wee haue no sence or feeling of mercie For faith is not grounded vpon sence and feeling but vpon Gods gracious promises immutable goodnesse and infallible truth Yea when sence and feeling cease then faith which is the euidence of things not seene beginneth it chiefe worke and the most excellent faith sheweth it selfe most clearely when we haue no sence or feeling or when we feele the plaine contrarie Faith looketh to the promise mercie power and truth of God and to the manner of his working and seeing his mercie is incomprehensible his power infinite his manner of working by contraries his truth firme and immoueable therefore in the greatest terrours it belieueth peace when God sheweth himselfe an enemie it apprehendeth him louing and mercifull and out of the deepest humiliation aboue sence or reason gathereth the sweetest consolation If euer we haue tasted of Gods loue and mercie liuely faith concludeth that wee are still in his loue and fauour Iames 1.17 Iohn 13 1 2. whatsoeuer we apprehend in our present sence and feeling for whom hee loueth to the end hee loueth them Yea faith goeth before experience or sence of mercie and waiteth for saluation in Christ in the depth of miserie grounding it selfe meerely vpon the Word of truth which cannot lie Wee belieue to taste the goodnesse of the Lord not because we haue felt alreadie how kind the Lord is though we may make vse of feelings past to sustaine vs in present agonies Experience and sence is a stay or prop for our better ease not the ground vpon which our faith leaneth and though it be shaken faith continueth firme If therefore at any time our sence and feeling tell vs one thing namely that God hath cast vs off foreuer and will neuer looke graciously vpon vs and the Word of God assure vs of another to wit that God doth loue vs and will neuer forsake vs vtterly wee are not to giue credit to our owne feeling but to Gods Word For our sence is oft deceiuing specially in matters of godlinesse but the Word of the Lord is sincere and abideth for euer In bodily diseases of some kinde wee trust more to the iudgement of a skilfull Physicion then to our owne conceits and shall we not thinke that God knowes our spirituall estate better then we our selues What can we belieue in matters of religion if we belieue not more then we can discerne by sence or reason The being of a thing and the sensible discerning of the thing to bee are diuers Howsoeuer at sometimes they concurre yet oftentimes they are seuered and disioyned Because the Sunne appeareth not to vs at Mid-night shall wee conclude that it neuer hath or will shine to vs againe Shall a childe imagine his Father neuer did or will truly loue him hereafter because for the present hee doth not admit him into his presence or afford him a fauourable and louely countenance No lesse absurd but more iniurious is it to our heauenly Father to coniecture that no grace or fauour is to bee sound with God seeing now the beames of his loue and mercie are hidden from vs. The dearest seruants of God who haue beene indued with most eminent graces and highly aduanced into speciall fauour with him haue yet in their owne sence apprehended wrath and indignation◠Psal 22.1 2. 38.3 4. 77.7 88.14 Ier. 20.14 15. instead of loue and fauour displeasure instead of comfort and trouble instead of peace Did God tenderly respect them when he seemed to teare them in pieces and to breake their bones like a roaring Lion and shall wee iudge of his affection by our present feeling § 11. But what if we haue long vsed the means of grace and can finde no comfort In this case §. 11. 12. They haue long vsed the meanes of grace and can finde no comfort Cant. 5.2.3 wee must repent of the former neglect to accept of grace offered and pray to God to forgiue and pardon it Wee must also examine our hearts with all care and diligence to finde out the sins which haply doe hinder comfort and bewailing the same stirre vp our selues to receiue the promises Remedy For oft times the entertaining of some bosome sinne which wee are loath to part withall is that which m kes the breach in our conscience And sometimes we walke without comfort not so much because God withholds it as that wee put it from vs The godly sometimes walke without comfort because they put it from themselues either not knowing that we are called to belieue or not
Iohn 2.25 My sheepe heare my voice and I know them and they follow me And I giue vnto them eternall life and they shall neuer perish In the Gospell wee find eternall life promised vpon condition of faith in Christ Belieue on the Lord Iesus Christ and thou shalt be saued and what God promiseth of free grace that faith doth certainly receiue Life is promised vpon condition of faith and by faith wee are quickened entitled vnto and made pertakers of life euerlasting Iohn 3.36 Hee that belieueth on the Sonne hath euerlasting life Hee that heareth my Word and belieueth on him that sent me hath euerlasting life Iohn 5.24 and shall not come into condemnation but hath passed from death to life This is the record 1 Iohn 5.11 12 13. that God hath giuâ—n to vs eternall life and this life is in his Sonne He that hath the Sonne hath life and he that not the Sonne hath not life If once we be bâ—ought to belieue in Christ life etâ—rnall is then begun in vs. This is life eternall Iohn 17.3 to know that is with the knowledge of faith thee to be the onely true God and Iesus Christ whom thou hast sent Col. 3.4 Ephes 3.17 For Christ is our life who dwels in our hearts by faith and therefore whosoeuer belieue in him haue life through and with him And this life is not another but one in substance with that blessed and glorious estate which the Saints enioy in Heauen though different in degree Againe when first we belieue then wee are intituled to life euerlasting and so haue the accomplishment of glorie in respect of right and proprietie 1. Pet. 1.3.4 Blessed bee the God and Father of our Lord Iesus Christ which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten vs againe vnto a liuely hope by the resurrection of Iesus from the dead To an inheritance incorruptible and vndefiled and that fadeth not away That being iustified by his grace wee should be made heires according to the hope of eternall life For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God Titus 3.7 by the death of his Sonne much more being reconciled wee shall be saued by his life They which receiue abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousnesse Rom. 5.10 Verse 17. shall raigne in life by one Iesus Christ To an earthly inheritance title followeth vpon the birth to the spirituall vpon our Adoption But when wee belieue in Christ wee are then made the Sonnes of God by Adoption yea sonnes accepted To as many as receiued him Ephes 1.6 John 1.12 to them gaue he priuiledge to become the Sonnes of God euen to them that belieue on his Name Behold what manner of loue the Father hath bestowed vpon vs that wee should bee called the Sonnes of God Beloued 1. Iohn 3.1 2. now are wee the Sonnes of God Gal. 3.26 29. and it doth not yet appeare what we shall be For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Iesus c. And if yee be Christs then are yee Abrahams seed and heiâ—es according to the promise Gal. 4.4 5. When the fulnesse of time was come God sent forth his Sonne made of a woman made vnder the Law to redeeme them that are vnder the Law Verse 7. that wee might receiue the adoption of Sonnes Wherefore thou art no more a seruant but a sonne Rom 8 14. and if a sonne then an heire of God through Christ. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God they are the sonnes of God Verse 17. Heb. 12.23 Therefore wee must belieue it c. And if children then heires heires of God and ioynt heires with Christ And for this cause the faithfulâ— are called the Church of the first begotten whose names are writt n in Heauen Now if eternall life be promised in the Gospell purchased by Christ and in right and title belong vnto the faithfull wee may conclude it is our part and dutie to belieue in God through Iesus Christ as well for the obtaining of eternall life to be giuen of grace as the forgiuenesse of our sinnes It is very necessary to belieue it And this is is necessarie that we might with the more quietnesse of Minde beare the afflictions and worldly losses the troubles and persecutions which befall vs in this world Heb. 10.35 36. Cast not away therefore your confidence which hath great recompence of reward for yee haue need of patience that after yee haue done the will of God yee might receiue the promise Abraham is commended in Scripture that he left his friends his natiue Countrie and all earthly hopes there whiâ—h were not small and came to dwell in a strange Land as a Pilgrime where he suffered many iniuries Heb. 11.8 9 10. anâ— was exercised with many troubles of sundry kinds all which he endured with inuincible patience by the hope and desire of eternall life and that heauenly Countrie whereunto hee was called The hope of Heauen is the firme and sure anchor of the soule to sustaine and stablish it that it bee not tossed vp and downe and ouer-whelmed with reproaches and indignities Heb. 6 19. offered with the worldly losses miseries of this life It serues also to establish our hearts against sundry worldly cares and feares affectation of earthly greatnesse and carking for earthly necessaries For why should we admire the glory of this life when most excellent glory riches and happinesse ioyned with it is prepared and giuen vs through faith in Christ Why should we doubt of earthly necessaries when God hath bequeathed vnto vs an heauenly kingdome Faith in Christ to receiue an incorruptible crowne of glory will moderate desires of earthly things that wee shall neither admire nor aspire after great things below nor basely dist ust the Lord for supply of what he knowes meete and conuenient for vs. Feare not little flocke Luk. 12.32 for it is your Fathers good pleasure to giue you the Kingdome If wee keepe Heauen in our eye and looke to the high price of our calling wee shall fight couragiously and runne with paâ—ience notwithâ—tanding all opposition What can daunt him in the wayes of godlinesse or make him slaâ—ke his pace who runnes to obtaine not a corruptible but an incorruptible crowne 1. Cor. 9.25 By faith some were tortured not accepting deliuerance Heb. 11.35 that they might obtaine a better resurrection Let vs runne with patience vnto the race that is set before vs Looking vnto Iesus Heb. 12.1.2 the Author and finisher of our faith who for the ioy that was set before him endured the crosse despising the shame and is set downe at the right hand of the throne of God The acts of faith concerning these promises be these The acts of faith concerning these promises First As an humble petitioner it receiueth and layeth hold vpon saluation it selfe promised which wee haue of Gods
Heb. 10.35.36 Heb. 6.12 Reu. 13.10 For faith is the ground of silent and quiet expectation of saluation When Christians are persecuted for the name of Christ all men see they haue great neede of patience that after they haue suffered for a time they might enioy the promise which now they hold by faith as it weâ—e by reuersion not in actuall possession But without confidence there can be no patience Faith in God is the only stay and support of the heart in trouble and affliction Psal 27.13 I had fainted vnlesse I had belieued to see the goodnesse of the Lord in the land of the liuing Remember thy word vnto seruant vpon which thou hast caused me to hope This is my comfort in my affiction Psal 119.49.50 for thy word hath quickened me In daily and lighter tryals a man of milde and patient temper may hold vp the Head but when one deepe calleth vnto another and the waues flow ouer our head when nature yeeldeth and the heart fainteth then to stand fast and bee of good courage that only can faith doe which is grounded vpon the rich mercie of God and relyeth vpon his Almightie power Faith is the Palme that sinkes not vnder the waightiest of burdens the Camomile that spreades the more it is trodden the oile that euer ouerswimmes the the greatest quantitie of water you can power vpon it In the most boisterous tempests it lifteth vp the chinne that we shall not drowne Heb. 11.35 36. and when a man is halfe dead it quickens and puts life into him By faith the Saints haue endured cruell mockings scourgings bonds imprisonments Eph. 6.16 tortures and death and in all these were more then conquerours Faith is the sheild of the soule whereby it is defended against all the fierie darts of the Deuill When we are afflicted we shall be tempted to impatience despaire doubting of Gods loue and the vse of wicked means to helpe our selues out of trouble Psal 3.2 and 31 11. and 35.15.36 Iob 30.1 The world will follow vs with scornes and traunts as if God had forsaken vs and would not arise for our helpe Our owne corrupt hearts will be readie to start aside repine faint question the Lords truth and mercy 1. Thess 3.5 and Satan will not be wanting to his opportunitie with all his might malice and subtiltie to seduce discourage or terrifie When our Sauiour was an hungred in the wildernesse Math. 4.3 the tempter came vnto him and saide If thou be the Sonne of God command that these stones be made bread Now seeing the burden of afflictions is made more heauie by temptations accompanying wee had neede to be well vnderpropped with a liuely faith that we might withstand and repell the force of the Enemie Faith onely supplieth all our wants in affliction Hee that possesseth all earthly things in greatest prosperitie and hath not faith hath nothing in deed much lesse the man that liueth in miserie but hee that liues by saith wants nothing that is good when miseries beset him on euery side For the present riches of a Christian are the gracious and faithfull promises of God which faith possesseth not looking to what we haue in hand but what the Lord hath laid vp in store and expecteth to receiue from God in fittest season more assuredly then if hee had it in his owne power to vse The Men of this world trust their friends with their stocke or monie and make account it iâ— as readie at hand as if they had it in their owne possession and sure it is the true belieue hath iust and good cause to trust God rather then himselfe and to relie vpon his word for whatsoeuer hee hath commited vnto him Fâ—iâ—h in time of danger doth as it were fence and compasse vs with the promises of God but without faith we are naked and lie open to the malice of our Aduersaries Behold his soule which is lifted vp Hab. 2.4 is not vpright in him but the iust shall liue by his faith The vniust man puffes vp himselfe and buildes towers of defence to himselfe bâ—t the iust man belieueth and that shall be to him in stead of all castles towers bulwarkes in the world For it brings vs vnder the wing presence Psa 18.2 Deut. 32.30 Psal 31.3 and 71.3 and protection of God it makes him our refuge and safeguard high rocke and tower of defence Afflictions profit not if they be not mixed with faith in them that beare them Bodily physicke procureth not health if naturall heate be lacking in the patient which might cause the potion to worke to the expelling of the sicke humour faith in respect of afflictions the physicke of the soule is that naturall heate wherby they are made to worke kindly to the purging of sin and the encrease of grace and comfort where it is altogether wanting their can be no kindly worke The righteous are allowed to liue by faith in the times of euill when calamities of all sorts compasse them about The Godly are allowed to liue by faith in afflictions 1. Tim. 4.8 Rom. 8.28 for godlinesse hath the promise of this life and that which is to come and the godly are to belieue both according to the word of the Lord. God hath promised that all things shall worke together for good to them that loue God 1. Cor. 10.13 Act 27.25 and that he will not suffer vs to be tempted aboue that wee are able and it is our dutie to belieue God that it shall be eâ—en as he hath tolde vs. The godly haue had this confidence in formers times whose practice is both a token of our priuiledge and a patterne of our dutie What time I am afraid I will trust in thee Psal 56.3 Psal 31.5 Into thine hand I commit my spirit thou hast redeemed me O Lord God of truth yea though I walke through the valley of the shaddow of death I will Psal 23 4. feare no euill for thou art with me thy rod and thy staffe they comfort me Come and let vs returne vnto the Lord Hos 6.1.2 for he hath torne and he will heale vs hee hath smitten and he will binde vs vp After two dayes will hee reuiue vs in the third day hee will raise vs vp and wee shall liue in his sight God is hereby much glorified that wee relie vpon him as our rocke of defence al-sufficient Sauiour and trustiest friend in time of distresse It is one of the Lords most royall titles Psal 60.5 Psal â— 9 Psal 10.14 to bee the Father of the Fatherlesse and a iudge of the widowes a refuge for the oppressed and the helper of the poore Thou hast beene a strength to the poore Esay 25.4 a strength to the needie in his distresse a refuge from the storme a shadow from the heate when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storme against the wall Esay 30.18 And therefore
The props of this faith First The exact infinite wisdome of God who knoweth what meanes will be fit to be vsed now and what not both for his glorie and the establishing of the thing in hand who knoweth what may hinder and can either preuent or frustrate it and who can knit secondarie causes one into another and make them conspire together in an admirable harmonie which wee our selues cannot doe Secondly Gods prouidence which rules in euery thing which falls out euen the least matters Math. 10.29 Prou. 20.24 Psal 37.23 Not a Sparrow falls to the ground but by his will Mans goings are of the Lord. He disposeth of euery thing that concernes vs and our affaires The worke that wee take in hand is not our owne but the Lords Prou. 16.3 Psal 37.5 Acts 14.23 2. Sam. 10.12 and the successe of the businesse doth depend vpon his pleasure to whom it must be committed Let the Lord doe what seemeth him good And he giues issue not according to the seeming abilities of the persons or likelihood of the meanes vsed but according to the good pleasure of his owne will Thirdly Faith thus vnderpropped bringeth forth industrie and endeauour to obserue God in his prouidence Hee that is most confident to speed is most vigilant to take all opportunities most diligent to labour in the vse of all lawfull meanes For God who worketh for vs will haue vs worke with him Faith lâ—yeth hold vpon the promises of aide and prouision with one hand worketh with the other Nothing can so much encourage quicken confirme in paines taking as faith The perswasions of faith are most powerfull the motiues strong the incouragements effectuall to put life and vigour into the dull and sluggish Hee that belieueth will labour and not make haste Hee that distrusteth not his pay-master is not hastie to get the pay into his owne hand because he knowes whom he hath trusted Fourthly Faith cannot be silent as hath beene formerly obserued Hee that belieueth will pray The weaker he is in himselfe the more difficult his taske the more feruent his supplications 2. Chron 20.12 O Lord there is no strength in vs to stand against this great people that commeth against vs neither doe we know what to doe but our eyes are towards thee And if the worke sticke fast and stirre not at the first it pulleth the harder difficulties incite to earnest prâ—yer Psal 5.2 3. In the morning will I direct me vnto thee and will looke out Fiftly It putteth life and hardinesse into vs. If the worke be great and our strength small faith biddeth vs bee strong and play the men for God will be with vs for our support Iudges 5.18 Zebulun and Naphtali were a people that ieoparded their liues vnto the death in the high places of the field In the most easie worke faith will not suffer to leane vpon our owne strength in greatest difficulties it will not despaire of the Lords aide â—shua 1.5 9. This is the stay of faith He wil not leaue thee nor forsake thee Euery thing is too haâ—d for vs if wee relie vpon our selues nothing too hard if we trust in the Lord and goe forth in the power of his might Sixâ—ly It waiteth vpon God for good successe and triumpheâ—h before the victorie Pâ—ou 16.3 Commit thy wayes vntâ— the Lord and thy thoughts shall be directâ—d Faith looketh to the promise and concludeth assuredly The word of the Lord shall neuer faile The zeale of the Lord of hosts will bring it to passe Seuenthly Faith is readie and forward to prayse God for good sâ—ccesse as it is willing and desirous to obey For it abaseth it selfe looketh more and more into Gods admirable kindnesse and is ashamed of vnthankfulnesse Dauid promiseth to praise God three times nay seuen times a day that he would doe it openly in the Congregation and priuately by himselfe and yet as though he had forgot himselfe and beene much behind others in this dutie he quickeneth vp himselfe vnto it Blâ—sse the Lord Psal 103.1 2. O my soule and all that is within mee blesse his holy Name The meditation of Gods Name is sweet the remembrance of his kindnesse is pleasant the faithfull cannot satisfie themselues in singing his prayses Hence it is that they stirre vp themselues and prouoke others to magnifie the Lord. Iudg. 5.9 10 11 My heart is towards the Gouernours of Israel that offered themselues willingly among the people Blesse yee the Lord. Speake yee that ride on white Asses yee that sit in Iudgement and walke by the way They that are deliuered from the noyse of the Archers in the places of drawing water there shall they rehearse the righteous acts of the Lord euen the righteous acts towards the inhabitants of his villages in Israel CHAP. XI How to liue by Faith in the vse of Gods Ordinances the Word and Saments There be many promises of Gods blessing his ordinances to his peoples good Esay 55.1 2 3. IN Scripture wee reade many promises made to such as shall conscionably hearken vnto the Word and receiue the holy Sacraments the seales of the couenant of grace that God will blesse his owne Ordinances to their edification comfort strengthening in grace and euerlasting saluation Ho euery one that thirsteth come yee to the waters and hee that hath no money Come yee buy and eate yea come buy wine and milke without money and without price Wherefore doe yee spend money for that which is not bread His Word and your labour for that which satisfieth not Hearken diligently vnto me and eate yee that which is good and let your soule delight it selfe in fatnesse Encline your eare and come vnto me heare and your soule shall liue The law of the Lord is perfect conuerting the soule Psal 19.7 8. the testimonie of the Lord is sure making wise the simple The statutes of the Lord are right reioycing the heart the Commandement of the Lord is pure inlightning the eyes A wise man will heare and will increase learning Prou. 1.5 and a man of vnderstanding shall attaine vnto wise counsels Take fast hold of instruction Prou. 4.13 let her not goe keepe her for she is thy life My sonne heare thy fathers commandement and forsake not the law of thy mother Binde them continually vpon thy heart and tie them about thy necke Prou. 6.20 21 22 23. When thou goest it shall lead thee when thou sleepest it shall keepe thee and when thou awakest it shall talke with thee For the Commandement is a lampe and the Law is light and reproofes of instruction are the way of life Iohn 17.17 Sanctifie them through thy truth thy word is truth Mich. 2.7 1. Pet. 2.2 Esay 9.2 Math. 4.15 Deut. 32.2 Zech. 14.8 Ezek. 47.9 Cant. 2.5 Esay 55.1 2. Acts 5.20 Acts 13.26 Acts 20.32 Doe not my words doe good to him that walketh vprightly As new borne babes desire the
as an euil he shall fall into but which he shall escape by the constant study and practice of holines For our assurance to escape damnation through the death of Christ Phil. 2.12 Math. 10.28 Luke 12.4.5 is no greater then our care to auoyd sin which leadeth thereunto Worke out your saluation with feare and trembling Feare not them which kill the body but are not able to kill the soule but rather feare him which is able to destroy both soule and body in hell Thirdly It stâ—rreth vp continuall watchfulnesse to shunne whatsoeuer might bâ—eed danger or procure Gods displeasure When sleepinesse beginneth to come vpon vs faith ioggeth our elbow and telleth the Lord is at hand with a whip to awaken vs. The approach of perill apprehended will rowse vp the sluggard to looke about him Faith also teacheth so to acknowledge the anger of God as that it draweth the heart aboue all things to take heed not to prouoke him by carelesnesse and securitie Who knoweth the power of thy anger 2. Cor. 5.10 11. Psal 90.11 Euen according to thy feare so is thy wrath Fourthly The threatnings mingled with faith cause sorrowfull melting or relenting of heart for sinne committed When the King of Nineueh belieued the preaching of Ionah Ionas 3.6 7 8. that within fortie dayes that gâ—eat Citie should be destroyed hee rose from his throne put on sackcloth and proclaimed a Fast vnto the Lord. And when the Lord testified his displeasure against the Israelites by sending thunder and lightning in Wheate Haruest all the people feared greatly and said vnto Samuel 1. Sa. 12.18 19. Pray for thy seruants vnto the Lord thy God that we die not for we haue added vnto all our sinnes this euill to aske vs a King Now the threatnings belieued worke the same effect Iudges 2.3 4. that the iudgements seene When Iosiah heard what the Lord spake against Ierusalem and against the inhabitants of that place his heart was tender 2. Kin. 22.18 19 and hee humbled himselfe before the Lord. Fiftly When wee see by faith from what miseries wee are deliuered of the free grace and mercie of God our hearts are enlarged in prayse and thanksgiuing In distresse faith powreth out supplications when the calamitie is ouer-past it setteth forth the goodnesse of the Lord and singeth of his glorie When the Israelites were in safetie on the shoare looking backe vpon the danger escaped when they passed through the red Sea Exod. 15.1 2. they make a ioyfull noise to the God of their saluation their songs are answerable to their fore-conceiued feare And so when the Lord brought backe the captiuitie of Babylon Psal 126.2 their mouthes were filled with laughter and their tongues with ioy The due consideration of our deserts manifest by the threatnings contained in the Word of God doth maruellously affect the heart with desire to publish and spread abroad the louing kindnesse of the Lord when by faith in Christ wee see our selues to bee set free from the dreadfull curses of the Law and mercifully saued from the righteous iudgement of our sinnes By this which hath beene said it is manifest that this life of faith is most excellent and comfortable and by good proofe and experience wee should be able to say so if wee would be perswaded but to take a taste of the benefit and sweetnesse that it bringeth For by this faith we are directed to seeke and follow after Christ Ephes 3.17 till wee come to be assured that he dwelleth in vs as the fountaine of life and that in him we are deliuered from the gilt and punishment of all our sinnes 2. Cor. 5.19 whereas others who liue not by it wauer are oft distracted and know not where to begin the foundation of that great worke nor how to build thereon By this faith we may come to sound rest and holy securitie about our saluation from time to time enioying the comfort of it still more and more with incredible ioy whereas others euen the best are oft vnsetled and much disquieted If the Lord lead vs into the darke and exercise vs with manifold afflictions and temptations by this faith we are enabled to hold him by the hand to cast our selues vpon the promises of grace and so relying vpon his power faithfulnesse and mercy to promise safetie vnto our selues aboue likelihood and appearance yea when wee feele the contrarie The rage of sinne is weakened and wee haue strength against it though not alwayes to preuaile which were not expedient yet at least to be in combate with it which is euer a good testimonie of our safetie for hereby we proue our selues to bee liuely members of the Church Militant Also by this we are preserued against fearefull sinnes and haue grace to walke in newnesse of life and all parts of it with ioy and chearefulnesse If we liue by faith we haue deliuerance from mâ—ny sharp bitter afflictions beare those which we must go vnder more meekly patiently because it makes vs depend vpon Gods promises not stinting him to any set time maner of deliuerance or measure of afflictioÌ„ By it we walk in our callings more chearfully honestly painfully with lesse distractioÌ„ toile vexatioÌ„ but with more profit then they that flow in with wealth haue all shifts cunning slights to gaine by Psal 127.1 2. For whiles we see God euer going before vs in al our earthly dealings and actions as we should more looke to it that we find it so then to our greatest profits weightiest dealings this faith shall vphold vs in the quietest estate and most sweet peace such as all the carnall wisedome of man shall neuer find nor enioy This faith teacheth vs to pray at all times as our necessities require with feruency coÌ„fidence euen in the depth of afflictions when the graue is readie to swallow vs vp and shut her mouth vpon vs Psal 69.13 14 15 16. it enableth to look vnto the Lord with strong arguments to implore his aid O Lord God of my saluation Psal 88.1 2 3. I haue cried day and night before thee for my soule is full of troubles and my life draweth nigh vnto the graue Out of the depths haue I cried vnto thee O Lord Lord heare my voice Psal 130.1 2. My spirit within me is ouer-whelmed my heart within me is desolate I stretch forth my hands vnto thee Psal 143.3 6. my soule thirsteth for thee in a thirsty land O remember not against vs former iniquities let thy tender mercies speedily preuent vs Psal 79.8 for we are brought very low If the affliction be very grieuous and of long continuance faith doth neither quaile nor cease to seek helpe but looketh vp to the Lord expecting saluation in due time to be reuealed O God Psal 74.1 2. why hast thou cast vs off for euer Why doth thine anger smoake against the sheepe of thy pasture Remâ—mber thy Congregation which thou hast purchased of old the rod of thine inheritance Psal 69.29 Psal 68.35 Verse 22. which thou hast redeemed I am poore and sorrowfull let thy saluation O God set me vp on high for God is the strength of his people who will brâ—ng them againe from the depths of the Sea The life of faith shall 〈◊〉 in ioy comfort He that trusteth in the Lord shall r◠〈◊〉 in his holy Name I am a wonder vnto many but the 〈◊〉 my strong refuge Psal 71.7 8. Let my mouth be filled with thy praise and with thy honour all the day Our heart shall reioyce in him Psal 33.21 because we haue trusted in his holy Name Loe this is our God we haue waited for him and he will saue vs this is the Lord Esay 25.9 we haue waited for him we will be glad and reioyce in his saluation The expectation of them that hope in the Lord Psal 68.19 69.30 shall not be frustrated therefore they shall reioice in him and sound forth his praises He that hath learned to liue by faith Heb. 11.13 shall also die in faith All these died in or according to the faith If we know how to walke with God by faith as Henoch did all the daies of our life amidst the manifold temptations changes that we meet withall in this world we shal the better encounter with death when the agonies therof be vpon vs. Death is many waies terrible and the assaults of Satan at that time are vsually most strong as being his last but hee that hath taken out this lesson To liue by faith shall easily quench the fierie darts of the Deuill manfully conquer this strong enemie renew his repentance and confidence in Gods mercy vpon the sight of sin willingly resigne himselfe into the hands oâ— God This is the ordinary course Liue in faith die in faith Liue holily and die blessedly Therefore let vs leaue late repentance to them that think it but a sport to venture a soule and take that course that is sure to speed To say no more it is exceeding dangerous to put off repentance from day to day though some few haue obtained mercie at their latter end But this is sure he that liueth in faith shall die in faith and liue in glory for euermore Amen FINIS
protection from all hurtfull euils so much are wee lacking to sound peace and stable tranquillity of Mind and Conscience p. 287. 288 The godly are allowed to belieue their perseuerance For 1. God hath confirmed it by promise and couenant vnto his children p. 288 2. They haue allowance to belieue the obtayning of that which Christ hath prayed for and they aske of God in the Name of Christ according to his will p. 289 3. What one belieued vpon ordinary and common grounds that is the priuiledge of all belieuers ibid. 4. It is a great glory to God that we liue by faith on him concerning our future estate p. 289. 290 The acts of faith concerning perseuerance 1. It makes a man sensible of his owne frailtie p. 290 2. It stirres vp holy iealousie and suspition least wee should coole decay start aside or fall backe ibid. 3. Faith instantly cryeth vnto the Lord for helpe and strength and continuall supply of grace p. 291 4. Faith desireth digesteth and feedeth vpon the wholesome food of life ibid. 5. It putteth forth it selfe to performe all duties of holinesse and loue with life and feruour p. 292. 293 6. It coueteth increase of grace and sanctification p. 293. 294 7. It receiueth new supply of grace continually from Iesus Christ the fountaine of grace ibid. 8. It assureth of perseuerance through the promises of grace p. 294. 295 Meanes to stirre vp our selues to belieue these promises of perseuerance 1. Wee must heartily bewaile our pronenesse to sinne aptnesse to decline inabilitie to withstand any one temptation or set one step forward in the way to Heauen p. 295. 296 2. Wee must stirre vp our selues to rest vpon God through Iesus Christ for establishment and confirmation p. 296. 297 3. Wee must pray instantly that God would vphold vs and make vs to see that hee will establish vs vnto the end p. 297. 298 CHAP. VI. THe seruants of Christ are all souldiers and haue continuall warre not with flesh and bloud but with principalities and powers and spirituall wickednesses p. 299 Encouragements to resist Satan ibid. Promises of victory p. 299. 300 In this state of temptation the godly are allowed to belieue the promises of victory For 1. The God of peace hath promised to tread Satan vnder our feet shortly p. 300 2. Faith doth glorifie God and is most profitable vnto vs our treasure strength and victory ibid. 3. We haue a charge to resist the Deuill strong in the faith p. 301 4. Faith is one of the first things that is formed in a Christian and wherewith God furnisheth him when hee prepareth and calleth him forth to the encounter ibid. 5. The faithfull cannot better prouide for their owne ease and safetie then confidently to hope in the Lord. p. 302 It is necessary a Christian should liue by faith in this condition For 1. True valour cannot be had without faith in Christ p. 302 2. All our strength lyeth in Christ whose Almightie power subdueth all things for vs. p. 302. 303 3. Faith is of force to keepe vs against all assaults of the Deuill ibid. 4. The Deuill will renew his assaults and wee must renew our courage and strength ibid. The acts of faith in respect of these promises of victory in temptation 1. Faith makes sensible that wee cannot resist of our selues but assureth that Satan is chained vp by the power of Almighty God p. 303. 304 2. It discouereth the Methods of Satan and his Ends in tempting p. 304. 305 3. It lifteth vp the heart to cry and complaine vnto God of the cruelty and malice of that Spirituall Aduersary but suffers it not to muse vpon his blasphemous temptations ibid. 4. By faith the poore soule eying the promise betakes it selfe vnto the Lord for succour promised p. 305. 306 5. It stirreth vp courage and resolution to set vpon the practice of godlinesse and the duties of our particular calling as the meanes sanctified of God to procure freedome p. 306. 307 6. It fortifieth the soule against all inuasions ibid. 7. Faith is vigilant and watchfull at all times in all places vpon all occasions p. 307. 308 8. In the most forcible tempests which the enemy rayseth against vs faith tels the heart that a calme is at hand p. 308. 309 9. If Satan renew his assaults faith stands prepared through the power of God to make resistance afresh p. 309 10. Faith assureth that by the ouer-ruling prouidence of God temptations serue for the increase of grace p. 310 The godly are sometimes brought so low that they can discerne no sparke of faith no fruit of grace no marke of Gods loue in themselues For 1. An afflicted spirit tossed with feare and terrour cannot conceiue or giue notice of it true estate p. 310 2. Good men in temptation are pettishly disposed p. 311 The Remedy in this distresse is 1. Grace may appeare vnto others when in temptation a godly man cannot discerne it in himselfe p. 310 2. It is the wisdome of a Christian in this case to obserue the marke that Satan driues at which is to hide from his fight the graces of the Spirit that he might bring him to despaire and so stirre vp himselfe to belieue For 1. When he can see no grace in his soule hee cannot but see himselfe to bee miserable and so called to come vnto Christ ibid. 2. Taking courage to belieue hee disappoints Sathan ibid. 3. Wee haue a commandement to belieue as well as to proue our selues both which must bee compleate together ibid. 4. If thou canst not find in thy selfe what thou seekest after come vnto Iesus Christ and belieue in him that thou mayst receiue what thou seekest p. 312 3. The distressed soule must learne that the grace of God worketh not alwayes alike in his children p. 312 4. The long and manifold temptations of Sathan wherewith hee seekes to throw Christians head-long into despaire is to them a testimony of the inhabitation of the Spirit in their hearts p. 312. 313 Meanes to stirre vp faith in these perplexities and times of grieuous temptations 1. The distressed Christian must vnfainedly humble his soule for former ignorance vanity of mind disesteeme of mercy timorousnes discontent vnbeliefe c. p. 313. 314 2. He must complaine of the malice of Sathan and instantly intreate the Lord to pardon sinne bridle restraine and tread Sathan vnder foot p. 314. 315 3. He must cease to muse on the temptations of Satan and stirre vp himselfe couragiously valiantly to trust in the mercies of the Lord and relye vpon his grace p. 316 317 4. He must exercise himselfe in wel-doing harbour holy and heauenly Meditations nourish the motions of Gods Spirit c. p. 317. 318. 319 If the distressed Christian haue wasted his spirits with violent and continuall sorrow hee must bee admonished not to thinke that presently hee should recouer former liuelinesse and ability p. 319. 320 CHAP. VII AFflictions are not more ordinary then heauy and burdensome to
not only to the righteous themselues but to their children and posterity pag. 358 359. 360 It is necessary to belieue these promises for 1. Faith in these promises doth kill couetous desires distrustfull and distracting cares p. 360. 361 2. He will neuer renounce carnall supports who makes not God the stay of his soule for outward things ibid. 3. Beliefe in God brings good successe ibid. 4. If we cleaue not to the promises of God made concerning temporall things we shall adhere to the promises of life with lesse assurance p. 361. 362 5. Faith sweetneth and sanctifieth vnto vs the vse of all outward comforts vnder our hands p. 362 The godly are allowed to liue by faith touching these promises For 1. Seâ—ing God hath giuen Christ for vs how shall he not with him also freely giue vs all things p. 362. 363 2. The Lord by couenant hath promised to furnish his people with all needfull blessings pertayning to this life p. 363 3. God is our faithfull Creatour we the worke of his hands He is our Shepheard we the flocke of his pasture He is our Father we his children p. 364. 365 4. The patient expectation of the Saints hath confirmed this that God will not bee wanting to his children in things of this life p. 365. 366 The acts of faith in respect of these promises 1. It preserueth from the vse of all vnlawfull meanes knowing that nothing can prosper which God approueth not p. 366. 367 2. Faith is painfull prouident and frugall p. 367 3. It maketh inquiry into the heart turneth from euill and seeketh the face of the Lord earnestly ibid. 4. It stirreth vp to pray without distrustfull fruitlâ—sse excessiue care c. p. 368 5. It seeth riches in God submitteth to his wisdome resteth in his loue and so maintaineth a Christian in some measure of contentation p. 368. 369 6. In prosperitie it keepeth the heart in an holy temper and disposition in humility and meeknesse tendernesse and compassion p. 369. 370 7. It prayeth as earnestly for the sanctification of prosperity and Gods blessing vpon the meanes as for the meanes themselues if they were wanting p. 370. 371 8. It makes heauenly minded in the vse and possession of a prosperous estate ibid. 9. Faith breeds godly iealousie and suspition lest the heart should be drawne away with the pleasing delights of things transitory p. 371. 372 10. It mindeth vs of our change euen when our mountaine seemeth strongest p. 372. 373 How to liue by faith in the vse of meate and drinke 1. By faith we learne out of the Word of God who hath sonne-like interest and title vnto the creatures what creatures are sanctified vnto our vse and how each man must sanctifie them by a reuerent and holy vse p. 373 2. It receiueth them not as the fruit of our fore-cast labour or desert but as gifts of Gods bounty yea as gifts of the gracious couenant p. 373. 374 3. By faith we are taught that man liueth not by bread only but by the prouidence of God and his blessing vpon his owne ordinance ibid. This perswasion takes the heart off the creature and lifteth it vp vnto the Lord in earnest and pertinent prayer pag. 374. 375 4. It teacheth to bee heauenly-minded labouring to taste Gods goodnesse and feele his gracious presence with our spirits at our sweetest feasts p. 375 5. Faith worketh the heart to sobriety and moderation watchfulnesse and feare lest it should bee ensnared and drawne away with these delights p. 375. 376 6. It lifteth vp the soule in thankesgiuing pag. 376 377 7. Faith is frugall compassionate industrious pag. 377. 378 CHAP. IX THe Lord cals for willing chearefull vniuersall vnfained constant obedience p. 378. 379 Looke what seruice the Lord doth expect and call for that hee will inable his people in couenant to performe p. 379. 380 The obedience of the faithfull is imperfect but pleasing p. 380. 381 This faith is most necessary to the leading of a Christian life scil to rest vpon God for ability to doe what hee requireth c. For 1. The word of grace teacheth vs to deny vngodlinesse c. p. 381 2. Want of belieuing the precepts is the cause why many doe still continue in the practice of diuers things inconuenient ibid. 3. Ignorance in this point is the cause why some of the better sort of people are off and on c. ibid. 4. Faith carrieth a man whither soeuer he shall see the Lord to goe before him p. 382 5. Our present faith is commensurable to our fidelitie in Gods Commandements ibid. 6. That act cannot please God which is not animated by faith p. 382. 383 7. When a Christian knowes not whether hee shall haue strength to doe what God requireth or his poore seruice shall find acceptance it must needes occasion many feares and doubts deadnesse and vnchearefulnesse pag. 383. 384 8. Confidence in God to be inabled strengthened and accepted will cut off temptations and discouragements and nourish courage resolution and forwardnesse in wel-doing p. 384 Christians are allowed to belieue that God wil inable them to walke in obedience 1. God hath promised in his couenant to teach them the way that they shall chuse p. 384. 385 2. When he sends forth his seruants vpon any businesse he doth euermore promise to aide and assist them in the execution of it p. 385 3. The seruants of God haue and doe begge grace to bring forth fruits worthy repentance and amendment of life ibid. 4. The faithfull haue bound themselues by couenant and oath to keepe the righteous iudgements of the Lord. p. 386 5. God will perfect the sauing worke which hee hath begun in any of his children ibid. The acts of faith touching obedience required 1. It makes a man wise to discerne what is lawfull good and seasonable ibid. 2. It curbes inordinate passions and ouercomes all impediments temptations difficulties and allurements to the contrary p. 387. 388 3. It purifieth the heart seasoneth euery facultie of soule qualifieth and strengtheneth naturall inclinations altereth the taste of euery appetite and so inableth to obey p. 389 4. Admirable in force and efficacie is the perswasion of faith aboue all the oratory in the world p. 389. 390 5. It disposeth and moueth the heart to absolute vniforme vnpartiall and constant obedience p. 390. 391 6. It fires the heart with vnquenchable loue which in comparison of obedience contemneth the whole world pag. 391. 392 7. Faith makes sensible of our manifold infirmities and that hath bl ssed effects 1. It causeth serious meditation vpon the Word of God that it might sinke deepe into the heart p. 392 2. It worketh the heart often to renew its resolution trusting in Gods grace ibid. 3. It stirres vp earnest and hearty prayer to bee taught vpheld and confirmed ibid. 8. It doth confirme in obedience and pricke forward therein though it be in manifold and bitter persecutions p. 392. 393. 394 Meanes how to quicken our
God will prouide for vs in this life raise vp our bodies vnto life at the last day of Iudgement and bestow vpon vs that euerlasting kingdome and inheritance which he hath prepared p. 424. 425. 426 2. It is a seale of our dutie promised 1. It is a spurre to repentance and mortification p. 426 2. It is a prouocation vnto faith and a pledge thereof p. 426. 427 3. It is an incitement vnto new obedience a pledge thereof p. 427. 428 4. It is a pledge and pawne of loue and vnitie pag. 428 The new exercise of faith is requird in the worthy receiuing of the Lords Supper ibid. The acts of faith in receiuing the Lords Supper 1. By it we discerne the Sacrament to be the holy Ordinance of God instituted for our speciall good and benefit sealing vnto vs the promises which God of his free mercy hath made in Iesus Christ p. 428. 429 2. By it wee see what the Lord doth offer vnto vs therein how excellent and pretious it is with what assurance it is freely tendered and may be receiued p. 429 3. It sharpeneth spirituall appetite and stirreth vp hungring and thirsting after Christ and his benefits ibid. 4. It earnestly contendeth for mercy confessing sin with griefe and hatred c. ibid. 5. By faith we receiue Christ offering himselfe freely to be contracted vnto vs. p. 429. 430 6. By faith we resigne vp our selues vnto Iesus Christ and willingly yeeld soule and body vnto him p. 430 7. Faith feedeth vpon Christ and sucketh vigour from him ibid. 8. Faith assureth of that spirituall contract which hath passed betwixt Christ and the Christian soule and is sealed in the Sacrament p. 430. 431 9. It stirreth vp ioy and thankefulnesse with serious remembrance of the manifold blessings which in Christ Iesus are vouchsafed p. 431. 432 Meanes to stir vp our selues to receiue the Lord Supper in faith 1. We must bewaile our vnbeliefe dulnesse earthly-mindednesse the distemper of our spirituall taste c. ibid. 2. Consider how freely the Lord doth tender Christ to be receiued in his Word and Sacrament ibid. 3. Weigh and consider the blessed state and condition of them who be reconciled vnto God c. p. 433 4. Hauing troth-plighted our selues to Iesus Christ vnfainedly we must awaken and rowse vp our soules to reioyce in him ibid. CHAP. XII THe faithfull are bound and it is behouefull for them to belieue the threatnings p. 434 The godly man is not slauishly to feare falling away or running into destruction but wisely to belieue the threatnings to preuent falling into sinne and so into condemnation ibid. 1. The threatnings are part of the Word of God ibid. 2. In the state of innocencie there was vse of threatnings so is there in the state of grace p. 434. 435 3. Promises and threatnings mingled fit our state and serue to keep the heart in the best temper ibid. The acts of faith in respect of the threatnings 1. It worketh humblenesse of mind and heart p. 435 2. It bringeth forth awfulnesse reuerence and feare p. 436 3. It stirreth vp continuall watchfulnesse to shunne whatsoeuer might breed danger or procure Gods displeasure p. 437 4. The threatnings mingled with faith cause sorrowfull melting or relenting of heart for sinne committed ibid. 5. When we see by faith from what miseries wee are deliuered of the free grace and mercie of God our hearts are enlarged in prayse thanksgiuing p. 437. 438 This life of faith is most excellent and comfortable for 1. By faith we are directed to seeke and follow after Christ till wee come to be assured that he dwelleth in vs as the fountaine of life and that in him we are deliuered from the guilt and punishment of all our sins p. 438 2. By this faith wee may come to sound rest and holy securitie about our saluation from time to time ibid. 3. If God lead vs into the darke by this faith we are enabled to hold him by the hand ibid. 4. Hereby the rage of sin is weakened and we haue grace to walke in newnesse of life and all the parts of it with ioy and chearefulnesse p. 439 5. By it we walke in our callings chearefully honestly painfully c. ibid. 6. This faith teacheth vs to pray at all times as our necessities require ibid. 7. If the affliction be very grieuous and of long continuance faith doth neither quaile nor cease to seeke helpe p. 439. 440 8. The life of faith shall end in ioy and comfort p. 440 9. He that hath learned to liue by faith shall also die in faith ibid. FINIS Errata PAge 3. l. 8. r. profession of faith p. 9. l. 23. more r. mere p. 22. l. 34 eased r. saued p. 44. l. 24. r. grace for p. 61. l. 1. r. distinction p. 67. l. 9. r faith receiueth p. 73. l. 26. l. 27. insert the more sincerely it worketh p. 75. l. 4 dele for p. 76. l. 30. r. confirmed p. 87. l. 36. dele themselues p. 91. l. 17. dele the p 92. l. 26. r. change p. 94. l. 3. r assured p. 96. l. 4 r. arise not l 26. r. with contrary effects p. 97 l 14. r. wauer as p. 104. l 24. r. they may be p. 116. l. 28. verde r. weede p. 118. l. 18. before thinke del I. p. 120. l. 4. liue r. lie p. 128. l. 11. r. faith yeeldeth p. 136. l. 13. r. this resting l. 36. r. possession of p. 143. l. 21. r. and receiueth p. 144 l. 18. r. seate faith p. 156. l. 5. r. liue in l. 7. r. how the Lord p. 174. l 12 r good will p. 175. l. 31. for r. or p 196. l. 31. r. walke heauily p. 201. l. 2 r. enliues it p. 221. r. But when the p 223. l 1. r. with a 1 p. 248. l. 26. 27. r. so long as p. 251. l. 5. r. deriueth p. 253. l. 9 10. r. resisteth p 292 l. 5. but r. we 296. l. 11. r. frowardnesse l. 17. r. are poore p. 302. betwixt l. 34. 35. insert after also of no strength p. 307. l. 23. we r. he p. 309. l 19. r. what might hurt him p. 313. l. 21. r. set open p. 315. l. 2 r. couering sin p. 328. l. 28 r would be 329 l. 4. vp r. vpon p. 344. dele from delight l. 6. to in l. 7. p. 345. l. 2. 3 r. persecuters p. 348. l. 9. r. such miseries p. 374. l 28 r. drinke and not be satisfied p. 393. l. 25. r. the Lord God p. 417. l. 29. r. It giueth p. 423. l. 14 r. the lauer p. 455. l. 10. r. tartnesse Errata in Margine PAge 4. de prae r. in prae p. 5. Acts 6. r. Acts 9. ibid r. preposition 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 ibid. r. particle 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 p. 13. Heb. r. Hab. p. 34. Mat. r. Mal. p. 50 r. § Sanctus Augustinus p. 133. Iohn r. Jonah p. 139. r. 1. Pet. 1.5 p. 144. Iohn 24 r.
not-rooted called faith Temporary Mat. 13.20 21. Luke 8.13 14. or an affiance certaine wel-planted constant knowne by the name of Iustifying or sauing faith Iustifying faith so called from the principall effect For to iustifie is not the full effect of this confidence or affiance Luke 8.13 Matth. 13.23 beyond which the efficiencie of it doth not extend but because this is the principall thing wherein the force of true faith is occupied Acts 24.14 Acts 15.9 Psal 119.66 Acts 27.25 Gal. 5.6 it is so called Iustifying faith belieueth the historie purifieth the heart sticketh to the Commandements receiueth the temporall promises worketh by loue but it is called Iustifying from the principall effect as the soule is called reasonable from the power it hath to inuent iudge and discourse not that these are her only faculties In the Scriptures of the New Testament this faith is vnfolded in these and such like phrases To belieue God To belieue in or vpon God Rom. 4.3 Iohn 5.24 Acts 16.34 18.8 Iohn 14.1 Rom. 9.33 Acts 6.42 Acts 16.31 Iohn 2.11 3.16 Io. 1.12 3.33 Marke 1.15 Acts 11.1 2.41 1. Cor. 2.14 To belieue in or vpon Iesus Christ To receiue him To receiue the testimonie of God To belieue the Gospell To receiue the Word of God To belieue God signifies no more but to assent to that which the Lord speaketh but belieuing as it belongs to the vnderstanding is the roote and foundation from which confidence of the heart doth spring and flow such a beliefe in the minde is signified in this and all other phrases as is alwayes necessarily accompanied with trusting in God for that which wee belieue hee can and will bring to passe And the other of trusting to or relying vpon is implied whensoeuer wee find that ascribed to belieuing which cannot bee obtained without faith in Christ And if wee search the Scriptures wee shall find these phrases To belieue a Rom. 4.3 with Rom. 4.5 24. Rom. 10.10 11. Iohn 8.30 31. Act. 19.4 Iohn 1.12 Acts 16.34 with 31. Marke 1.15 Gen. 15.6 with Rom 4.3 God and to belieue in God to import one and the same thing A preposition b Exod. 14.31 and 19.9 Luke 24.25 Iohn 2.23 is added to belieue when nothing but assent of minde is signified and it is put without a c Iohn 9 35.38 Esay 28.16 with Rom 9.33 preposition wheÌ„ trust or confidence is implied Rom. 3.22.26 Acts 3.16 Gal. 2.16 Phil. 3.9 Acts 24.24 Col. 3.5 Gal. 2.26 Ephes 1.15 Bayne in Ephes â— 15 d The Hebrew preposition serueth oftentimes to note the accusatiue case and is vsed or omitted without any difference Deut. 7.6 7. 1. Sam 14.37 Esay 33.15 Iob 24.22 Deut. 28.66 Psal 106.12.24 Esay 43.10 The 70. translate the particle sometimes by 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Jerem 12.6 2. Chron. 20.30 Psal 28.32 ordinarily by 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Psal 4.6 22.4 5 25.2 37.3 Psal 11â— 8 9. 146.3 Sometimes they omit it altogether Exod. 14.31 19.9 Ps 106 12. Gen. 15 6. and sometimes they adde the preposition 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 where the Hebrew hath no particle Esay 28.16 In the New Testament 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 and 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 are often put interchangeably one for another Marke 1.9 2.1 Math. 2â— 1 Marke 1.15 Luke â—3 42 Rom. 5.21 Gal. 5. â—0 Phil. 3.3 1. Tim. 3.16 Ephes 6.24 And the Heathen Greekes vse 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 for 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 as Xenophon 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Moreouer wee reade sometimes the Faith of Christ and faith which is by Christ sometimes faith on Christ and sometimes faith in Christ which seuerall formes of speech note much the same thing but that as some learned men obserue the first may be conceiued as propounding Christ the simple obiect Doct. 2 of faith The second phrase Christ the obiect together with our adhering to him The third noteth Christ the obiect our adhering in him together with the word propounded as the way and meane by which wee come belieuingly to inhere in him §. 4. Not the habit but the act of faith is required § 4. But euermore when faith is required it is not the facultie whereby wee are apt and furnished to belieue but the act and exercise of that habite whereby we execute the function of belieuing which is to be vnderstood For this is that which God commandeth in the Scriptures not that our soules be adorned with the habit of faith though that be necessarie but that we belieue in him Belieue in the Lord your God Repent yee and belieue the Gospell 2. Chron. 20.20 Marke 1.1 Marke 9.23 Io. â— 12 14.1 If thou canst beleeue all things are possible to him that belieueth But as many as receiued him to them he gaue right to become the sonnes of God euen to them that belieue on his Name Yee belieue in God belieue also in me Iohn 3. â—8 Acts 8.37 He that belieueth on him is not condemned If thou belieuest with all thine heart thou mayest The Gospell is the power of God vnto saluation Rom. 1.16 1. Iohn 3.24 to euery one that belieueth This is his Commandement that yee should belieue on the Name of his Sonne Iesus Christ Ephes 1.8 We are saued by faith Acts 16.31 is all one with that Belieue on the Lord Iâ—sus Christ and thou shalt be saued We are iustified by faith Gal. 2.16 Acts 13.39 10.4 is all one with that By him all that beleeue are iustified from all things from which yee could not be iustified by the Law of Moses Whosoeuer beleeueth in him shall receiue remission of sinnes Rom. 4.3 Abraham belieued God and it was imputed to him for righteousnesse And therefore the Israelites are reprehended that they belieued not in the Lord Num. 14.11 Deut. 9.23 Psal 78.21.22 A fire was kindled against Iacob and anger also came vp against Israel Because they belieued not in God and trusted not in his saluation None but those belieuers are praised Blessed is she that belieued Luke 1.45 Iohn 20.29 Rom. 9.33 Because thou hast seene mee thou hast belieued blessed are they which haue not seene and yet haue belieued Whosoeuer belieueth on him shall not be ashamed CHAP. II. Of the Authour and worker of Faith Iustifying § 1. IVstifying faith §. 1. What Iustifying Faith is which not only belieueth God speaking in his Word but mebraceth all diuine truth as containing the chiefe good of Man as being the most perfect doth necessarily require before it faith historicall comprehend all other kinds vnder it It may be defined a liuely and obedientiall affiance or confidence wherby we rest vpon Christ for saluation receiue the promises of grace temporall and spirituall sticke to the Commandements as good both simply and in comparison and feed vpon the word with sauour and delight More largely It is a wonderfull
it neither extinguisheth the nature of man nor the light of reason Faith is not a brutish captiuitie which yields vp her eyes to bee put out but the vnderstanding receiuing a more excellent sight by faith yeilds vp the worse and doth not loose her light but exchange it for the better There is a double assent one from reason the other from authoritie both are made with the knowledge of the Minde knowledge is included in both in the one of the cause and properties which is strictly called Science in the other of the authoritie and truth of the reuealer and in that respect of the thing taught which is called Faith Rom. 10.14 17. 1. Cor. 4.14 1. Cor. 13.2 Bellar. vbi supra How shall we belieue in him of whom we haue not heard There is no sight without some visible obiect no faith without the knowledge of God in Christ Though knowledge be not faith but an habit distinct from it yet it concurres to the being of faith in as much as no man can assent to that hee neuer heard of Wisdome is distinguished from knowledge as a thing more excellent which yet it presupposeth so faith is distinguished from knowledge but cannot be without it The knowledge which hath no ingredience into faith is the knowledge of that which is not reuealed for faith not only goeth before such knowledge but vtterly repels it neuer admitting any curious search into Gods secrets But in things reuealed faith knoweth what it belieueth and by belieuing knoweth the more Faith is the cause of more ample knowledge but some knowledge of Gods will and pleasure is antecedent to faith This knowledge must be distinct sound certaine And this knowledge must be distinct sound and certaine For faith diuine is sure and certaine therefore the knowledge whereupon it is grounded must be such as cannot deceiue The assent which faith giues to the Word of God is absolute and vnlimited which can neuer bee yeilded vnlesse being certaine in it selfe we know it certainly as it is 1. Thess 5.19.20 Col. 3.16 1. Iohn 4.1 Acts 17 1â— 12. 1. Reg. 13.20 21 Acts 1â— 1.14 Psal 119.18 34 73.144 Col. 1.5 2. â— Ephes 1.16 17. 2. Cor. 8.7 Hosius contra Brent lib. 3. Bellar. de Iustif. l. 1. c. 7. §. Iudicium Tolet. instr Sacerd l. 4. cap. 2. and bee assured that wee conceiue of it aright The examination of doctrines by the touchstone is commanded of God and wonderfully commended by the Holy Ghost the neglect of examining what wee heare doth bring great perill and danger for such as receiue doctrines vpon the credit of their Teachers are euer vnsetled apt to bee seduced and readie to start backe in time of trouble Certaine knowledge is to bee begged of God both for our selues and others and thankes haue beene and should bee giuen to God for this grace and mercie vouchsafed vnto the Saints The Papists haue much extolled the Colliars faith commended ignorance and disgraced knowledge as if faith were much better defined by ignorance then by knowledge but when they are pressed with euidence of Scripture in this point they grant that knowledge in all fundamentall points of Religion is necessary for lay people and would colour the matter as if they meant the knowledge of reason was not necessarie to faith T. W. in his triple accusation of D. White but of reuelation onely Not to dispute of their meaning in those propositions though their words and practice and matter intreated of sufficiently argue the vanitie of that excuse wee may take them as they say and spare labour to proue that faith cannot be a blinde assent because we haue their confession for it that faith requireth knowledge of reuelation The Implicite faith then of them that know nothing in Religion but belieue as the Church belieueth Rom. 1.17 16 1. Cor. 10.15 11.28 2. Cor. 13.5 2. Pet. 1.5 1. Pet. 3.15 Rom. 12.1 2. not vnderstanding what she belieueth or professeth is most absurd but when we know Christ truly and whatsoeuer is absolutely necessarie to saluation there bee many things wrapped vp from vs which wee ought to belieue in which respect faith may bee called implicite or infolded For being compassed about with mists of ignorance In what respects faith is Implicite wee attaine not the vnderstanding of many things reuealed of which we may note very many examples in the Disciples of Christ hauing not yet obtained full illumination Iohn 20.9 Matth. 16.22 Luke 24.25 Acts 1.6 10.14.11.2 Iohn 4.39 41. Heb. 11.31 and in them who being only stirred vp by the miracles of Christ went no further then to acknowledge him to be the promised Messias So that when a man knowes and vnderstands in generall the substantiall Articles belonging to faith which are contained in the Scriptures and is ignorant only in the particulars whereby the said general Articles are demonstrated and when withall he vses the meanes to encrease in knowledge by searching the Scriptures and hearing the Word preached in this case his faith may bee true though infolded in many particulars Faith also may be implicite in another respect for many that truely belieue cannot certainly affirme they doe belieue which befalleth them that are touched in conscience for sinne who bewaile their offences and desire to be reconciled vnto God Now as in the little tender bud are infolded the leafe the blossome and the fruit so in true sorrow broken-heartednesse and vnfained acknowledgement faith and many graces of Gods Spirit are infolded But this is not properly vnderstood when wee speake of implicite faith neither is faith so much wrapped vp in these graces as the sight of faith and sence of comfort hid from their eyes that be distressed § 2. Faith presupposeth knowledge and yeilds assent to the word of grace §. 2. Faith is an Assent relying vpon the authoritie of God who is true in all his sayings sincere faithfull constant in all promises and can neither deceiue nor bee deceiued Abraham belieued God Gen. 15.6 the word imports he thought the words of God to be sure certaine stable and constant Moses saying Exod. 4.31 Deut. 1.52 Exod. 4.31 14.31 Israel will not belieue me meaneth they would not assent or giue credit to his words And when it is said Israel belieued the Lord and his seruâ—nt Moses thereby is vnderstood that they gaue credit to the word of the Lord spoken by his seruant Moses This is cleere in the exhortation of Iehoshaphat vnto the people saying 2. Chron. 20.20 Belieue in the Lord your God so shall you be established belieue his Prophets so shall yee prosper And that of Dauid Psal 116.10 I belieued therefore haue I spoken Beliefe is alwayes grounded vpon the authoritie and reputation of him for whose word sake wee belieue and must needs haue reference to some vttered word or reuelation as the obiect but it may be sustained and strengthened by other
doubting the sense runneth plainly By faith wee haue so free and full accesse that wee doe not doubt but we shall obtaine what we aske § 4. Faith is a liuely obsequious affiance §. 4. Faith is an obedientiall affiance ioyned with an affection of pietie for as it makes plea for mercie so it thrusteth forward in obedience as it vniteth the heart to the promise so it glueth fast to the Commandements Psal 119.66 as Dauid saith Psal 119.66 Teach mee good iudgement and knowledge for I haue belieued thy Commandements By faith Noah moued with reuerence prepared the Arke for the sauing of his houshold Heb. 11.7 Gen. 12.1 Heb. 11.8 9. Gen 13.8 14.19 By faith Abraham left his Countrie and Kindred and forsooke all strange Religions and Idols to follow God By faith he contentedly abode in the land of Canaan as in a strange land c walking from place to place remained in tents and in euery place shewed his godly deuotion in making an Altar and calling vpon the Name of the Lord He kindly yeelded to his Nephew Lot for auoyding of contention charitably rescued him when he was taken prisoner Gen. 24.1 Gen. 1â— 23 20.27 carefully prouided a wife for his sonne Isaac feruently intreated for the Citie of Sodome and meekly prayed for him that had taken his wife He is honourably commended by God himselfe for his good instruction to his household children and posteritie Gen. 18.19 that they might walke in the wayes of the Lord But aboue all other hee approued his faith in this that vpon Gods Commandement he so readily offered vp his Sonne Isaac being after Ismaels expulsion his onely Sonne his beloued sonne and concerning whom hee had receiued the promise of life and saluation Heb. 11.17 and the establâ—shment of the Couenant Moses consent in this doctrine may be found where God pronounceth the Law of the ten Commandements teaching all duties of good workes to God and Man saying I am the Lord thy God Exod. 20.1 2. Rainol Apol. Thes Sect. 4. Zanch. de Redempt lib. 1. cap 12. de praecept he thereupon inferreth all their obedience to those Commandements For what is I am the Lord thy God but the couenant of faith to bee their God in the promise of Christ vpon this he requiring obedience in a godly life doth insinuate a Tilen Syntag. part 1. cap. 36. §. 18 19 28 29. Perkins golden Chaine cap. 20 Vrsin explic catech c. Deut. 6.12 that they which belieue God to bee their God must declare the same by obedience to his Commandements And therefore hee saith in another place Beware thou forget not the Lord thy God not keeping his Commandements which sheweth plainly that where disobedience is there is no faith for how can hee haue faith that forgetteth him in whom hee should belieue And this doth Moses ayme at when he saith Deut. 26.17 Thou hast auouched the Lord this day to be thy God and to walke in his wayes and to keepe his Statutes and his Commandements and his Iudgements and to hearken vnto his voice Whereby it appeares that vnto faith in couenanting with God this is an inseperable consequent that if wee embrace God by faith wee must and ought to follow his Commandements by our deeds and hee that doth not this latter bewrayeth that he hath not with a true heart and faith receiued the former To belieue is not only to giue credence to what the Scripture saith but to embrace what is said with an entire adherence of soule and to cleaue vnto it 2. Chron. 6.8 9 He that leaneth vpon the Lord his heart is vpright before him and he whose spirit cleaueth not stedfastly vnto the Lord is incredulous Therefore the Prophets which expound the Law Psal 78.9 in the person of God say thus A Sonne honoureth his Father and a Seruant his Master Mat. â— 6 If then I be a Father where is my honour and if I be a Master where is my feare Now we know that we are Sonnes no way but by faith Therefore this Prophet intendeth Gal. 3.26 that wee are not ioynâ—d to the Lord by faith either as his people children or seruants or that he is our God Father and Lord except our faith be vnfained and operatiue in honour and feare And another Prophet saith Psal 116.10 I belieued therefore I spake making it a most assured thing that a liuely faith will shew it selfe by outward deeds and namely profession Mercie and obedience are linked Christ is both a Lord and Sauiour and that faith which maketh a plea for mercie doth embrace the Commandements that which receiueth Christ as a Sauiour submitteth vnto him as a Soueraigne The strength of faith is equall to the promises of life and to the offices of pietie and loue or if there be any difference it is weakest to lay hold vpon the promises because they are most spirituall and furthest remoued from sence Confidence and relying vpon the mercie of God in Christ for saluation may bee lesse then care and abilitie to walke in obedience greater it cannot bee The word that in the Old Testament signifieth to seeke is by the seuentie translated Hope Isay 11.10 Rom. 15.12 which interpretation the Apostle alloweth whence it followeth that true confidence the mother of hope doth lift vp the heart to seeke the Lord in the way of his Commandements Moreouer saith is opposed not only to doubting diffidence and fainting but to wauering double-mindednesse halting disobedience stubburnnesse by reason of the necessarie connexion of those parts in both opposites Aske in faith and wauer not Jam. 1.6 A double-minded man is vnstable in all his wayes Through vnbeliefe thou art broken off Rom. 11.20 Heb. 3.12 and thou standest by faith Take heed brethren lest at any time there bee in you an euill heart and vnfaithfull to depart away from the liuing God They professe that they know God but by workes they denie him and are abhominable and disobedient or vnfaithfull Tit. 1.16 Iohn 3.36 Hee that belieueth in the Sonne hath euerlasting life but hee that belieueth or obeyeth not the Sonne shall not see life but the wrath of God abideth on him Now if incredulitie be not without diffidence disobedience true faith in God is not without confidence affection of obedience Hereunto may bee added that the manifold rebellions of Israel in the Wildernes are called vnbeliefe They belieued not in God Psal 78.22 32. and trusted not in his saluation For all this they sinned still and belieued not for his wondrous workes I will therefore put you in remembrance though yee once knew this how that the Lord hauing saued the people out of the land of Egypt Iude 5. afterward destroyed them that belieued not And beliefe in Christ inferreth the keeping of Gods Commandements whereunto the soule is inclined by faith And this is his Commandement 1. Iohn 3.23
was not mixed with faith in them that heard it where the doctrine of saluation is compared to wine which profiteth not vnlesse it be drunken that is receiued by faith and to belieue is spiritually to drinke the cup of saluation My soule thirsteth for thee saith Dauid Because thy louing kindnesse is better then life my lips shall prayse thee Psal 63.1 3 5. My soule shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatnesse c. To belieue in Christ Iohn 6 35 50 51 53 54. is to eate the flesh of the Sonne of man and to drinke his bloud Temporarie faith tasteth the word as men doe meate which they spit out againe receiueth it as a raw stomacke doth meate which it vomiteth vp and cannot hold Heb. 6.5 but it neuer feedeth kindly vpon the seuerall parts of the Word of life nor standeth affected towards it as a good stomacke doth to wholsome nourishment which is euident in that the weeds of earthly-mindednesse pride pleasure are not stocked vp by the rootes and where these abide the soule is not rightly tempered to apprehend the worth and qualitie or feed vpon the iuyce of heauenly mysteries But where true and liuely faith hath residence the soule is tempered to symbolize with diuine goodnes and standeth affected to the seuerall branches of the word as a good appetite doth to wholsome food of diuers qualities Faith admits many interruptions This is the nature of Iustifying faith but it admits many interruptions in acts or operations The Minde is sometimes darkened with mists arising from our naturall corruptions sometimes our passions stirre violently that we cannot doe as wee would nor continue our adherence vnto the Word of life as better for the time being then the prosecution of some sensuall good that for the present doth moue our affections and is stolne into them Naturall taste is distempered with sicke humours that abound in the bodie so is the spirituall with temptations from without and spirituall diseases from within Thus it is with the best oftentimes in this life whilest the minde is clouded with earthly thoughts and the heart assailed with carnall lusts which through weaknesse or neglect of watchfulnesse creepe vpon and disturbe them for a time but in their right temper and good plight they are much better they taste and feed vpon the Word of truth and the fauour of God is sweeter to them then all the delights of the sonnes of men We conclude then that Iustifying faith is a firme absolute vnlimited assent and wel-rooted al-seasoning soueraigne affiance whereby we rest vpon Christ for saluation embrace the mercies of God as better then life and feed vpon the Word with sweet refreshing and delight CHAP. IIII. Loue is not the soule of faith yet Iustifying Faith cannot be without Loue. § 1. FRom that which hath beene spoken of the nature of faith § 1. Loue is not the soule of Faith these two things doe plainly follow First That loue is not the life and soule of faith Secondly That Iustifying faith cannot be without loue As light and heate in the Sunne be inseparable so is faith and loue being knit together in a sure band by the Holy Ghost but loue cannot be the forme or soule of faith Liuelihood is the qualification Loue the companion Workes the fruites or effects of that faith that iustifieth but faith receiueth not it vertue life or efficacie from Charitie or any other vertue but from the Spirit of whom it is breathed into vs from whom also it receiueth that it may giue force to all other vertues and good works whereby they are vertues and good workes It is faith and not Charitie that giues influence to all other graces euen to Charitie it selfe as faith increaseth so other graces increase as faith decreaseth so other graces decrease the l fe of faith is our life the strength of faith is our strength if our faith be weâ—ke there is nothing else whereby wee can bee strong It is the essentiall forme or act of faith to accept of the promises of mercie Heb. 11.33 Gal. 3.14 22. Math. 8.13 Rom. 4.16 Rom. 3.27 whereby wee obtaine them also God hauing appointed that as a condition that the promise might be sure to all the seed to exclude boasting and to set forth his free grace and fauour But Charitie cannot serue for that vse because I cannot presume of that that is anothers vpon any conscience of my loue towards him but vpon confidence only of his loue towards me Be it that all things are common amongst friends before we can build the cupon we must haue it resolued vnto vs that God takes vs for his friends which can bee no otherwise but by faith only Faith must first receiue embrace Rom. 3.25 and hold the merit of the bloud of Christ before there can be any assurance of friendship betwixt God and vs. And although being now in friendship with Christ our loue may giue vs encouragement and comfort to make vse to our selues of that that is his yet it is not by our loue that wee take it to make vse thereof For the act of loue is done only by issue and passage from him that loueth to the thing that is loued as from vs to Christ and therefore it must be somewhat else whereby we receiue from Christ to vs. How should the goodnesse of God bee the obiect of our charitie but by being first the obiect of our faith For therefore fore doe we loue the goodnesse of God or loue God for his goodnesse towards vs because first wee belieue the same neither can we so loue but by belieuing For charitie consisting simply in affection apprehends nothing in God of it selfe but receiueth all from faith The forme is the beginning of actions and that that giueth influence and life to another thing must needes haue a prioritie to that that receiueth it But charitie is not the beginning of the actions of faith specially of the act of belieuing the act of loue hath no prioritie to beliefe but followes after it and is quickened by it For by faith we embrace the Word and receiue Christ when as charitie compelleth vs to loue him whom we know embrace and hold by faith Wee first taâ—â—â— our meate and then loue it faith is the spirituall taste of the soule which feedeth vpon the sweet and tender mercies of the Lord before the heart bee enflamed with loue Faith and loue are different gifts and graces and some effects are attributed to faith which agree not to charitie as faith is said to iustifie to purifie the heart to ouercome the world to receiue the promises Charitie may be called an accidentall forme of faith that is it is an instrument vnto it for mouing and stirring abroad in the performance of all duties recommended vnto vs both to God and Man but the life and soule of faith it is not or the inward and essentiall forme whereby it hath life and being
vnfainedly embraceth Christ and resteth vpon him be euer at vncertainties whether hee doth belieue or no The heart vnregenerate is deceitfull and wicked aboue all things Ier. 17.9 Bellar. de Iustif lib. 3. cap. 8. sect Huius argumenti To bee in the faith is to haue faith in them Rom. 8.1 5.9 Ephes 3.17 1. Iohn 4 16. Rom. 8.8 2. Cor. 13.5.6 Ephes 3.17 the heart regenerate is true and faithfull In respect of the exact measure of grace and strength the regenerate are oft deceiued but of the truth of grace they may bee assured in some particular resolutions they bee ignorant of their owne hearts but of their generall purpose they may firmely and truly be peâ—swaded Paul bids vs to proue and trie our selues whether we haue not that faith by which Christ dwelleth in our hearts which worketh by loue which is the faith of such as are accepted with God are purged from their sinne and are become Temples of the Holy Ghost intimating that by examination it is to bee discerned and knowne whether wee belieue And if wee may know that wee haue faith whereby Christ dwelleth in vs by his Spirit Râ—em annot in 2. Co. 13.5 sect 1 and wee in him then may wee know also that wee haue repented truly of our sinnes for faith and repentance be inseperable companions and who so hath the one hee cannot be destitute of the other It is one thing to repent another to belieue but these two liue and dwell together that if one be wanting there is neither in truth § 7. They obiect further It sufficeth not to belieue vnto saluation §. 7. Bellar. de Iustif lib. 3. cap. 6. Acts 8.37 but a man must belieue with his whole heart which no man say they can certainly affirme Indeed faith sincere vpright and wel-rooted is required on our parts to Iustification 1. Tim. 1.5 but not absolutely perfect in degree without weaknesse or defect And this may be knowne by him that hath it else could not the Eunuch haue answered I belieue nor Dauid haue promised Acts 8.37 38. Psal 86.12 138.1 Psal 119.10.69 I will praise thee O Lord with my whole heart with my whole heart haue I sought thee But in these and such like passages the a Psal 119.2 Deut. 4.29 Ier. 29.13 2. Chron. 15.15 Prou. 3.5 whole heart noteth the integritie b Psal 73.1 57.11 28.6 7 and vprightnesse of the soule not the perfection of grace without any infirmitie or defect as on the contrarie a fraudulent or hypocriticall heart is called c Psal 12.2 an heart deuided and the whole heart is opposed to a fained and hypocriticall heart as the Lord complaineth by his Prophet d Ier. 3.10 Iudah hath not returned vnto me with her whole heart but fainedly And thus wee shut vp this first reason That which the Scripture saith to pertaine to all and singular Belieuers Luke 7.50 Marke 16.16 that euery Belieuer may certainly assure himselfe of by faith But the Scripture sheweth remission of sinnes to pertaine to all and euery Belieuer Againe What we are taught to aske of God in Prayer and haue a promise to obtaine that by faith wee may bee assured to obtaine Marke 11.24 1. Iohn 5.14.15 Psal 145.18 For God that hath commanded vs to pray and directed what to aske according to his will and promised to grant the desires of them that call vpon him in truth according to his Commandement hee will not denie his promise nor goe backe from the thing that he hath spoken But we are commanded to aske the pardon and forgiuenesse of our sinnes and haue a promise to be heard in that which we desire Therefore by faith wee may be assured of the particular remission of our offences Our Aduersaries except that what wee are assured of alreadie Bellar. de Eccl. l. 4. cap. 11. praeterea In what sence forgiuenesse of sinnes is to bee praied for that wee cannot aske of God in prayer and therefore if wee be assured of pardon wee must not pray for pardon What is it lawfull in no sence to pray for that whereof we are assured Dauid prayed to God for the pardon of those sinnes which hee belieued by faith were forgiuen for so was hee assured from the Lord by the Prophet Nathan vnlesse wee shall charge him with infidelitie for not belieuing the Prophet since the speech was so plaine that he could not but vnderstand it I haue sinned against the Lord 2. Sam. 12.12 13. A plaine and true confession The Lord also hath put away thy sinne thou shalt not die As plaine and certaine an absolution Will our Aduersaries come in here with their vaine distinction of guilt and punishment of temporall and eternall If they doe it is to no purpose For whatsoeuer the respects were in which Dauid prayed for the forgiuenesse of his sinnes once this is cleare that hee prayed for it and then what remaines but that our aduersaries must condemne him of sinning grieuously in asking God pardon for those sinnes which he belieued by faith were forgiuen him or of infidelity for not belieuing or else graÌ„t it lawful in some regard to craue pardon when it is alreadie granted and belieued to bee so But further it is manifest that both guilt and punishment were remitted because the Prophet precisely mentions both parts The Lord hath taken away thy sinne There is the guilt wipt away Thou shalt not die There is the punishment forgiuen the whole punishment the whole penaltie of the statute concerning sinne And yet nothing is more cleare Psal 32.1 2. Psal 51.1 2. then that Dauid begs pardon both of the guilt and punishment of his offences and that God would make him see and feele this forgiuenesse of his euery day more and more Neither yet doth it follow that then prayer for forgiuenesse is an effect of a weake faith because though our faith were strong yet the feeling of our owne wretchednesse the iust desert of sinne and the wrath of God due vnto vs would wring out such entreatie from vs as wee see the extremitie which our Sauiour Christ was in vpon the Crosse made him cry out so mainly My God my God why hast thou forsaken me Math. 27.46 albeit he was fully assured that God neither had nor would vtterly forsake him Againe one chiefe reason and end of our praying to God for pardon is that wee may alwayes acknowledge that euery sinne committed by vs deserues euerlasting damnation of it selfe and should euerlastingly be punished if that God had not accepted our Sauiour Christs satisfactioÌ„ for vs By which though we are freed if we rest on him by faith yet both it is our duty according to Gods Commandement to sue for pardon for his sake in truth if we do it not we haue no reason to perswade our selues that our sinnes are pardoned For howsoeuer it is true that Christ our Head hath paid the price
But patience and constancy with a resolute mind to beare Gods triall will bring a good end yea by a meeke going vnder Gods hand in these thâ—y shall learne experience to wade through greater afterwards and yet in the midst of them to hâ—ue hope that they shall not be ashamed Say their fo mer course of life past hath not answered that sincerity the Lord requireth what then Are they therefore reprobates No but it argues want of faith Not so but place for fuâ—ther inâ—rease of faith and the fruits thereof Those whom the Lord hath chosen to bee his worshippers and hath redeemed and consecrated holy to himselfe they bee his plants and engraffed Oliue branches in his Sonne who take not their full perfection at once but according to the nature of plants require daily watering and dressing whereby by degrees they attaine in the end a full stature in Christ In Scripture we haue example of weake belieuers as well as of strong As the Holy Ghost hath remembred the faith of Abraham who belieued aboue hope vnder hope Marke 9.24 Iohn 3.1 so hath it recorded the faith of Nicodemus in knowledge simple and weake in profession and practice timorous and fearefull In one and the same person we shall find different degrees of faith at diuers times at one time like a graine of Mustard-seed Num. 20.11 12 Psal 21.1 77.7 8. at another time like a growne Oake now like a smoaking snuffe but soone after bursting out into a bright flame The strongâ—st faith of any Saint mentiâ—ned in Scripture is â—mperfect assailed with temptations mixed with manifold doubtings For they were subiect to innumerables infirmities which are not specified in the Booke of God neither was it fit that it should bee a register of their manifold temptations frailties and fals But out of those things which are recorded wee may perceiue they were shaken with assaults ouer-taken with corruptions tripped and foiled sometimes by the policie of Satan Rom. 15.4 All which is set vpon the file for our admonition and consolation So that a Christian may not account himselfe void of grace because he is not perfect in faith knowledge and loue but he is wisely to consider the secret worke of Gods Spirit and grace and take comfort of the smallest crumme and drop of this heauenly sustentation and attend the time of perfect growth according to the good pleasure of God Oh but they feele not the testimony of Gods Spirit which might assure them they can finde no sparke of grace in themselues Neither doe any of Gods children at all times feele it but that they may see their own frailty God doth as it were hide himselfe for a season as a Mother doth from her childe to trie his affection that they may with more earnest desire mourne for Gods wounted grace and praise him with more ioyfulnesse of heart when they haue obtained it againe And yet God doth not with-hold comfort from his children many times when they walke heauenly but their owne frailty and vehemency of temptation which oppresseth them diminisheth the feeling thereof When the winde is lowde the aire stormie and tempestuous a man cannot heare the voice of his friend when the heart is filled with feares and perplexed with manifold temptations tossing it vp and downe the calme and still voice of the Spirit is not discerned And in those seasons the triall of faith is to be taken by those fruits which are euident to the eye of others who can iudge more sincerely then the afflicted themselues in that anguish of soule and spirit As the sicke man during the time of his distemper must not trust to his owne taste but rather relie vpon the learned Physicion and other honest and discreet friends so the faithfull must not giue too much credit to the suggestions of their owne heart possessed with feare but rather belieue their faithfull Pastor and other godly and experienced Christians that are about them But to yeeld so much to their present weakenesse because in this perplexity they will bee euer and anone questioning the soundesse of former comfort and integrity of their hearts suppose they were destitute of grace and neuer had felt sound comfort should they vtterly despaire or giue place to deading sorrow Math. 11.28 In no sort for Christ calleth the burthened and laden to come vnto him for ease and comfort Being destitute of grace and comfort they are willed to repaire vnto him for both who hath sufficient in store for them If they finde not themselues to bee eased they know they are burthened if they be not watered they feele themselues to be thirstie if they belieue not they are allowed inuited encouraged to come vnto Christ To them he calleth as if he did particularly name them Esay 55.1 2. Iohn 7.37 Apoc. 22.17 Marke 10.49 Come yee to the waters and drinke Come vnto me and I will refresh you Why stand yee trembling as if your case were desperate Yee desire helpe and he calleth you Be of good courage and come vnto him The end of the first Part. The Life of Faith The second part CHAP. I. What it is to liue by faith and how a Christian should stirre vp himselfe thereunto MAny and pretious are the fruits of â—aith Inducements to liue by Faith whereof wee haue vse at all times in euery state at euery turne and in all things that we goe about which who so would enioy hee must learne not onely to haue but to vse it aright to liue by it here feeding vpon the seuerall promises of mercy and not onely to be saued by it when he goeth hence The Lord himselfe the Authour and giuer of life hath oâ—ten taught vs by his Prophet and Apostle Hab. 2.4 Rom. 1.17 Gal 3.11 Heb. 10.38 That the iust man is not onely to belieue to Iustification but to liuâ— by Faith The worthy seruants of God in all ages are all brought in as a cloud of witnesses testifying this truth that The Iust shall liue by faith Gen 5.24 Heb. 11.5 Gen. 24.40 By faith Enoch walked with God By faith Abraham walked before God Paul liued if euer any comfortably happily from the time of his conuersion to the time of his dissolution but euen whilest hee liued in the flesh hee liued by the faith of our Lord Iesus Christ Without faith what â—â—e wee but dead moules liuing carkases that carrie about and are carried with dead soules The best most excellent and pretious part of Man is d stitute of true life till faith be inspired into it from aboue whereby we are vnited vnto Christ the fountaine of supernaturall and eternall life Col. 3.3.4 The most glorious or pleasant life of Man without faith is but a vaine shadow a meere picture and resemblance oâ— life or of death rather drowned in carnall delights full of vexation and leading towards euerlasting perdition The best worke of the regenerate if it bee not animated and quickened
grace and free fauour of God that we shall haue whatsoeuer is expedient to bring vs safely thither giuen vs freely by the Lord in this life so farre as hee knoweth it good for vs. God hath made promise of all good things more then we could aske or thinke Psal 34.9 10. Rom. 8.28 that no good thing shall be wanting that whatsoeuer commeth shall bee for our good all which the Iust man possesseth by faith and is aswell satisfied when in temptations and trials he hath no meanes of helpe as if hee had all that his heart could desire To the burdened God hath promised ease Math. 11.28 Esay 55.1 Ier. 31.34 Esay 26.1 â—ro 10.28 Zech. 1.8 1. Cor. 10.13 Psal 91.2 3. 84.11 Esay â—3 28 Math 6.33 refreshing to the thirstie pardon to the penitent comfort to them that mourne perâ—ect peace to them that waite vpon the Lord assistance comfort deliuerance to them that be tempted preseruation and protection from euill with comfortable supply of all blessings temporall and spirituall so farre as shall be good all these faith embraceth possesseth feedeth vpon and so resteth contented and comforted as if all helpe that could be deuised were present and comfort inioyed The word of grace teacheth vs to denie vngodlinesse and worldly lusts Titus 2.12 and to liue godly iustly and soberly in this present world from this word of command faith cannot be wholly turned aside by allurement or terrour but resteth vpon God for abilitie and sweetly inclineth the heart with delight and chearefulnesse to follow after the Lord. Thus to liue by faith is firmely to relie vpon the Word of God in all estates and conditions with full purpose to bee guided by it vntill the good things contained theâ—ein be fully accomplished This is to be seene in that honourable company of Worthies summed vp by the Apostle as patternes of faith Heb. 11.1 2 3 4. c. who in all estates and straights whatsoeuer they were brought into in all temptations wherewith they were tried and in all difficulties wherein they were exercised yet so liued by faith that nothing could dismay them much lesse to ouerthrow them By whose example we may learne so to rest vpon Gods Word and promise for all needfull helpe assistance comfort and deliuerance what danger or difficulty soeuer befall vs that we be neither dismayed with terrour nor turned aside with worldly allurements nor wearied with delayes nor faint in the combate What is to bee done that wee might liue by faith Iob 22.21 22. Psal 85.8 Now for the attaining hereof these two things are carefully to be performed First to acquaint our selues familiarly with the Word of God that we might haue it in readinesse for direction and comfort Secondly to exercise faith aright in the Word of God The Word of God is the ground of all our faith wherby we liue be directed maintained and vpheld in all our trials 2. Pet. 1.4 The promises of mercy are as so many legacies bequeathed vs by our heauenly Father and by his Sonne Iesus Christ Psal 119.105 in his last Will and Testament The Commandements are so many directions to guide in the way of blessednesse Iohn 5.39 vntill wee be full pertakers of the good things promised It is therefore most necessary and behouefull for vs to search this Will and Testament for all such legacies as may concerne vs Prou. 6.21 22. and to binde this law continually vpon the heart that it might leade keepe counsell and comfoâ—t vs as occasion requires Faith is the liâ—e of our soules the Word is the ground life guide and moderator of our faith If God shall leade vs into the darke at any time or bring vs into any straight that wee see no way of escaping or meanes of reliefe will it not be a great stay and comfort to our soule if then wee can call to minâ—e the good Word of God formerly laid vp in store whence we can raise such hope of helpe in due time as may quiet and content vs till we doe enioy in effect the good desired Psal 94.19 When the heart is perplexed with thoughts distractâ—d with feares and vnsetled with temptations is it not a great refreshing that wee can call to minde the commandements of God directing what wee must doe or leaue vndone instructing in the way of peace wherein our feet shall neuer stumble Psal 119.24 If wee would bee ready and skilfull practitioners in the great art of liuing by faith wee must exercise our selues in the Word of God and get into our hearts and memories at least the principâ—ll promises and Commandements that we may haue them in readinesse for direction and comfort vpon all occasions Col. 3.16 Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdome And here it is to be obserued that besides expresse Commandements and direct promises generally offered there be spâ—ciall promises and Commandements by consequent which we are to note and make vse of As whatsoeuer God promiseth to any one of his children not in any speciall or proper respect only concerning such a person and for such a time but as a common fauour belonging to all his children that wee may and ought to receiue as a promise made to vs Thus the Apostle diswading from couetousnesse applieth that promise to all the faithfull which in speciall was spoken vnto Ioshuah I will not leaue thee nor forsake thee Heb. 13.5 Whensoeuer wee find that any of Gods people haue prayed for any good thing and haue bin heard if it were not by special prerogatiue peculiar to them we may take it as a promise to vs. I sought the Lord and he heard me and deliuered me from all my feares Psal 34.4 5 6 They looked vnto him and were lightned and their faces were not ashamed This poore man cried and the Lord heard him and saued him out of all his troublâ—s Wh t fauour God hath shewed vnto any of his children according to promise and couenant of grace the same mâ—y â—ll that be in couenant with him expâ—ct and looke for For all the faithfull haue the same God to be their God liue vnder the same couenant and haue inâ—erest in the same promises of mercy Thus Iames exhorting to patience in trouble alledgeth the example of Iob Yee haue heard of the patience of Iob James 5 11. and haue sâ—ene the end of the Lord. As for extraordinarie fauours or deliuerances granted vnto some persons by speciall priuiledge and not by verâ—ue of common couenant wee cannot promise our selues the same in particular from their example nor did the Lord vouchsafe the same to the same persons at all times but as such peculiar mercies imply a common ground or reason they are vnto vs arguments of comfort and incouragement God doth not ordinarily send his Angels to open the prison doores nor stop the mouthes of Lions nor quench the force of the fire for the preseruation
labour to see the necessitie and preciousnesse of faith 2. See the necessitie and pretiousnesse of Faith and these seene will make a man hold hard ere he part with it A man that hath a great charge his whole state about him will as soone lose his life as part with his treasure Of what excellencie and vse is this grâ—ce of faith which subdueth passions ouercommeth allurements maketh things impossible to the flesh easie and delightsome inableth to stand fast when we are buffeted by Satan lifteth vp the head amidst all the surges of temptation remayneth victorious in all combats raiseth vs vp when we are laid along and our weapons beaten on our Heads knitteth the heart fast to the heauenly Commandements quickeneth in deadnesse and holdeth the Lord fast when he leadeth vs into the darke Who would not preferre the custodie and increase of such a grace before life it selfe Nay what is our life without it If faith liue in vs we liue blessedly whatsoeuer misery compasse vs about if faith decay we die if it die we perish Thirdly We mâ—st consider whom we trust and meditate on the grounds of faith to wit the grace 3. Meditate on the grounds of Faith power goodnes truth vnchangeablenes of God for this will strengthen beliefe Wee must consider the promises of God that we may see what his good will and pleasure is what a Fatherly care of our welfare hee hath and not only how able but how willing also he is to helpe and succour vâ— what promises he hath made and how faithfull hee is in performaâ—ce for his owne names sake and of free vndeserued loue The Mother of vnbeliefe is ignorance of God his faithfulnesse mercie and power Psal 9.10 Those that know thee will trust in thee This confirmed Paul Abraham Sarah in the faith 2. Tim. 1.12 Heb. 11.11 Rom. 4.21 I know whom I haue beliâ—ued and that hee is able to keepe that I haue committed vnto him vntill that day Hee is faithfull who hath promised and able also to performe The free promises of the Lord are all certaine his Commandements right and good the recompence of reward inestimably to bee valued aboue thousands of gold and siluer Trust therefore in the Lord O my soule and follow hard after him Thou hast his free promise who neuer failed who hath promised more then possibly thou couldst aske or thinke who hath done more for thee then euer he promised who is good and bountifull to the wicked and vngodly thou doest his worke who is able and assuredly will beare thee out there is a Crowne of glory proposed vnto thee aboue all conceit of merit sticke fast vnto his Word and suffer nothing to diuide thee from it Rest vpon his promises though hee seeme to kill thee cleaue vnto his stâ—tutes though the flesh lust the World allure the Deuill tempt by flatteries or threatnings to the contrarie 4. Feeling weaknesse of faith looke on on Christ Fourthly When wee feele our faith weake we must looke vp to Christ the beginner and finisher of faith in vs. A fainting bodie will taste some thing that is cordiall and restoratiue and a fainting soule must baite it selfe with looking to Iesus who is our cordiall and restoratiue 5. Pray for the spirit of faith Fiftly Faith is a grace that is giuen from aboue and commeth downe from the Father of lights vnto whom wee must fly by feruent prayer humbly begging that he would by his Spirit both reueale vnto vs what be those pretious promises which he hath made vnto his people and giue vs wisdome rightly to iudge of them and firmely to receiue them in euery estate and aboue all to moue our hearts so to belieue them that wee may assure our selues of all needfull helpe in due time seeing God alsufficient and faithfull hath promised it and waite vpon him in the way of his Commaundements Mercifull Father it is my sincere desire and vnfained resolution to draw nigh vnto thee and put my trust in thy mercies for euermore But of my selfe I haue no abilitie to stand in faith or to follow hard after thy Commaundements I am full of doubtings when I can see no meanes to put me in hope of helpe and ready to sinke downe in despaire vpon euery small occasion I am readie to stagger and slip aside Take pittie vpon me O Lord for thy mercie sake for I fly vnto thee for helpe Thou hast commanded mee to belieue hold mee by thy right hand that I shrinke not reueale thy promises vnto my vnderstanding giue mee a sound iudgement establish me in the faith more and more vnite my heart close vnto thee that all the darts of the Deuill may fall off not be able to wound my conscience Thou hast giuen me to see my weakenesse in faith and to bewaile it to see the necessitie and excellent vse of faith and to desire it giue me also stedfastly to belieue according to the riches of thy grace that I may glorifie thy name CHAP. II. What it is to liue by faith in particular touching the promises of pardon and forgiuenesse and how to stirre vp our selues thereunto THE vse of faith which is as large as the word of God must be distinguished according to the arts and seuerall branches of it promises What the promisâ—s bee and the kinds thereof Commaundemets threatnings By promises vnderstand all those declarations of Gods will wherein hâ—e signifies in the Gospell what good he will freely bestow And these be either Spirituall or Temporall concerning this life or the life to come of things simply necessarie to saluation or of things good in themselues but not alwayes good for vs all which are receiued possessed and inioyed by faith according as they be promised of God either with or without limitation Amongst spirituall promises absolutely necessarie without which there can be no saluation the first and chiefe is concerning pardon or forgiuenesse of sinnes and Iustification The promise of forgiuenes of sinnes God of his rich grace and mercie in Iesus Christ doth make offer of free and full forgiuenesse of all sinnes to euery burdened thirstie and peniâ—ent soule Isay 55.7 Deut. 30.1.2 1. Reg. 8.35 Let the wicked forsake his way and the vnrighteous man his thoughts and let him returne vnto the Lord and he will haue mercy vpon him and to our God for he will abundantly pardon Ier. 3.12 Returne thou backe-sliding Israel saith the Lord and I will not cause mine anger to fall vpon you for I am mercifull saith the Lord and I will not keepe mine anger for euer I will clense them from all their iniquitie wherby they haue sinned against me and I will pardon all their iniquities whereby they haue sinned and whereby they haue transsgresed against me Ier. 33.8 and 1.34 The promise is free This promise is made of free and vndeserued mercie not for any merit that is or possibly could bee in vs.
I Isay 43.25 and 44.22 euen I am hee that blotteth out thy transgrssions for mine owne sake and wiâ—l not remember thy sinnes I will loue them freely for mine anger is turned away from him Hos 14.4 Who is a God like vnto thee that pardoneth iniquitie and passeth by the transgression of the remnant of his heritage Mic. 7.18 hee retaineth not his anger for euer because he delighteth in mercy Heb. 8.12 Ier 31.34 Deut. 21.8 I will be mercifull to their vnrighteousnes and thâ—ir sinnes and their iniquities will I remember no more Bee mercifull O Lord vnto thy people Israel whom thou hast redeemed Numb 14.28 Yet obtained through Christ only Ioh. 1.29 But when we heare of grace we must remember Christ in and through whom God is gratious vnto vs. Christ is the lambe of God which taketh away the sinnes of the world and this great benefit of forgiuenes of siâ—ne is plentifully proclaimed vnto vs miserable sinners in nâ— through him Thus it is written Luk. 24.46.47 and thus it behoued Christ to suffer and to rise againe from the dead the third day and that repentance and Remission of sinnes should be preached among all nations beginniâ—g at Ierusalem Bee it knowen vnto you thâ—refore Act. 13.38 Men and bretheren that through this Man meaning Christ is preached vnto you the forgiuenes of sinnes Now then we are Ambassadors for Christ 2. Cor. 5.10 as though God did beseech you by vs we pray you in Christ steed be yee reconciled to God Hereunto agreeth that inuitation of our Sauiour Come vnto mee all yee that labour and are heauen laden and I will giue you rest This promise of grace is receiued possessed and enioyed by faith alone Math. 11.28 And receiued and possessed by faith but by an operatiue and liuely faith To him giue all the prophets witnesse that through his Name Act. 10.43 Act. 13.39 whosoeuer belieueth in him shall receiue remission of sinnes And by him all that belieue are iustified from all things from which yee could not bee iustified by the Law of Moses Though faith bee accompanied with other graces yet Man liueth by it alone And by it alone Rom. 1.17 Gal 2.16 and 3.11.24 not by it and other parts of grace as ioynt supporters in as much as by it alone he trusts in Gods mercy offered in Christ wholly relying on it not partly on mercy partly on righteousnes inherent We are iustified freely by his grace Rom. 3.24.25.26 though the redemption that is in Iesus Christ whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood to declare his righteousnes for the remission of sinnes that are past The Scripture foreseeing that God would iustifie the Heathen through faith Gal. 3.8 Gen. 12.3 Gen. 15.6 Rom. 4.16 preached before the Gospell vnto Abraham saying In thee shall all nations be blessed And thus the Lord hath ordained for diuers reasons First this promise is of faith that it might be of free grace which cannot stand with the dignity of workes If it bee by grace then is it no more of workes otherwise grace is no more grace Rom. 11.6 But if it be of workes then is it no more grace otherwise worke is no more worke Faith answeres the promise and receiues the pardon of grace as a poore begger vtterly denying all worthinesse in the subiect whereas other graces had they beene assigned to this office would haue challenged something to themselues Secondly it is of faith that it might be stedfast and sure to all the seed why so because the promise is of grace Faith and grace doe sweetly consent mutually vphold each other Faith leaneth vpon grace alone and grace or mercy is promised freely that we might belieue and vouchsafed to him that doth belieue and accept it Without faith therefore the promise doth fall And if the promise of remission of sinnes did depend vpon any worthinesse in vs to receiue it wee should not onely wauer and bee vncertaine but euen vtterly despaire of euer speeding Thirdly that only is the true manner of Iustification which shuts forth all boasting in the dignitie of our workes Ier. 9.23 But faith excludes all boasting in our selues and teacheth vs to glory in the Lord our righteousnesse Where is boasting then it is excluded By what Law Rom. 3.27.28 Of works Nay but by the Law of faith Therefore we conclude that a man is iustified by faith without the deeds of the Law For if Abraham were iustified by workes Rom. 4 1.3 Eph. 2.8.9.10 1. Cor. 1.30 31. he hath whereof to glory but not before God For what saith the Scripture Abraham belieued God and it was counted vnto him for righteousnes As God inuites vs to receiue the promise of pardon offered in the Gospell It s necessary to seeke pardon of sinne by faith so it is necessarie that wee embrace it by a liuely faith For in our selues we be sinfull and cursed no way able to make any satisfaction wher by we might be deliuered and remission which is of grace can be obtained by no other meanes but onely by faith n Iesus Christ To him that worketh not Rom. 4.5.6.7 Psal 32.1 but belieueth on him that iustifieth the vngodly his faith is counted for righteousnesse euen as Dauid also describeth the blessednesse of the Man vnto whom God imputeth righteousnes without workes Saying Blessed are they whose iniquities are forgiuen and whose sinnes are couered Gal. 1.16 and 3.22 Blessed is the Man to whom the Lord will not impute sinne Faith goeth directly vnto Christ that by him wee might be Iustified and embraceth the promises of God concerning Iustification which is the maner by which alone God hath ordained to iustifie vs. No man can be heire according to the hope of eternall life vnlesse he be iustified from sinne by the free grace of God Isay 59.2 for sins not blotted out by the free pardon of grace seperate betwixt God and vs and hide his face from vs. Tit. 3.5.7 Not by workes of righteousnesse which wee haue done but according to his mercy hee saued vs c. That being iustified by his grace wee should be made heires according to the hope of eternall glory But no pardon is obtained vnlesse the promise of pardon be receiued by faith Faith in the promises of mercie that wee might be acquitted from sinne and accepted as Iust and righteous doth commend and maintaine the glory of Gods grace intyre and in this respect also it is the more necessary As a penitent malefactor if hee were to pleade his cause before the Prince himselfe would not stand vpon termes of innocencie or present integritie because he had his pardon vnder seale seeing that was giuen him to pleade for mercie not for iustice so the faithfull soule relyeth vpon the free mercie of God and promise of pardon proclaimed indefinitely to all burdened and penitent sinners
and sealed to euery belieuer in particular by the pledges of the Spirit not vpon those sanctified graces which are giuen vnto him that he might be qualified and fitted to plead for grace and mercy The acts of faith about promises of pardon The acts of Faith concerning this promise of forgiuenes be diuers First it generally belieueth the promise true and thereby disceâ—nes that sinne is pardonable through grace Psal 130.4 Luk. 15 18. The knowledge of this that our sinnes may bee pardoned or that there is mercy with the Lord to couer sin is a worke of faith For whatsoeuer cannot be conceiued or found out by sence or reason that is manifested by reuelation and assented vnto or iudged true and certaine by faith or else it remaines as a mysterie vnknowne When the Apostle defines Heb. 11.1 faith to bee the euidence of things not seene doth hee not intimate that things vnseene to sense or naturall reason are discouered and made euident only by faith But that God will pardon iniquitie transgression and sinne is a truth that can neuer bee comprehended by the light of nature flesh and bloud hath not reuealed it vnto vs. Supernaturall truthes which exceed all humane capacitie cannot be discerned or receiued by any power of nature 1. Pet. 1.12 Rom. 16.25.26 Eph. 1.8 9. Isay 40.13 14 But that God will be mercifull to our sinnes is a truth supernaturall hidden from the Angels themselues vntill it was reuealed in the Gospell Who hath knowne the Minde of God or beene acquainted with the mysteries of his wisedome In the dayes of securitie whilest men sleepe in sinne without all sence of euill or knowledge of Gods iustice it is an easie matter to say God is mercifull Christ died for sinners But whence the conscience is awakened with the terrors of Gods wrath and the fearefull sight of sin Gen. 1.13 Math. 27.5 Psal 77.3.7 8. the experience both of wicked men and of the Saints of God can testifie that it is a difficult thing to looke beyond the cloud of iustice and contrarie to the naturall sentence of conscience comninations of the Law and present feeling to belieue that there is forgiuenesse with God Secondly faith stirreth vp earnest desires and longings to be made pertakers of this mercie of God and to bee refreshed with his gracious and free fauour All holy and feruent desires are both kindled nourished by it As our assent to the Diuine and heauenly promises is more or lesse firme certainea bsolute euident so are our desires more or lesse fierie constant vnsatiâ—ble yea in respect of heauenly things vnquenchable As faith languisheth these faint as faith encreaseth these gather strength And no maruell for appetite followeth knowledge Ioh. 4.10 and desire is answereble to that certaine cleare iudgement that we haue of the necessitie and worth value and digniâ—y of the obiect apprehended Now faith discouereth both the necessity and excellencie of the good certainely contained in the word of promise which act of faith is signified by the opening or piercing of the eare and seriously meditateth vpon the singular benefits offered therein so raiseth the heart vncessantly to hunger and thirst after them And these desâ—res will be the greater and more constante the more faith is exercised in the meditation of the goodnesse freenes and certaintie of these promises Many things are neglected which are most pretious only because the value of them lyeth hid or is not apparant or the preiudice of sensible but deceiuable experience doth ouersway No marueile then if the pardon of sinne be neglected though the benefite be probably knowne when it is but sleightly thought vpon superficially looked into custome hauing iniured the Minde by long practice to the pursuite of earthly delights or profits wherewith it is besotted But with the true belieuer it fareth much better for he seeth how happy it should be with him if his sinnes were couered and his soule eased of the burden of them how euer it fare with him in matters of this world and withall he pondereth the truth and faithfulnesse of the promise made of meere grace whereby the heart is stirred vp to desire and long after this blessing aboue all good that can be imagined And yet such is our corruptioÌ„ we must oft breathe our selues in the meditation of these things or else we shall find our esteeme of pardon to decay and our desire to grow cold and dull Thirdly It draweth vs forward to seeke mercy of God Math. 13.45.46 The wise Merchant first discouers the pearle of price and then seeketh to get possession of it The desire of a belieuer is not a dead or sluggish wish Oh that my sinnes were pardoned when hee neuer stirreth vp himselfe to receiue the promise But it is a deliberate desire of a benefite knowne possible to be attained attended with much comfort and freely promised by him that cannot lie which is euer accompanied with proportionable care to get and possesse the blessing desired Faith will not suffer a man to smoother or conceale his desires nor desires themselues to die but it perserueth and kindleth desires constraineth with an holy violence to lay them open before the Lord. Thus by faith a man commeth freely to renounce his title and interest in the world and to part with any thing that might hinder mercy The wise Merchant hauing found the pearle of price Math. 13.44 for ioy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath not as if he could merit pardon but that he might be capable of pardon and make a faithfull plea for mercy To this end also he humbleth himselfe before the throne of grace in true and vnfained confession of his sinnes freely iudging and condemning himselfe before God which a broken and contrite heart I will declare mine iniquitie I will bee sorie for my sinne Psal 38.18 So the prodigall sonne comming home to his Father doth bewaile his former lewdnesse saying I haue sinned against Heauen and before thee Pharaoh and Saul being euidently conuinced of sinne Luk. 15.18 Psal 32.5 may be constrained in conscience to make some confession to men I haue sinned this time and the Lord is righteous I haue played the foole and erred exceedingly Exod. 9.27 1. Sam. 26.21 1. Reg. 21.29 Ahab humbleth himselfe before God putteth on sackecloth in hope to preuent the temporall euill denounced against him and his house But the confession of true and vnfained faith is free and voluntarie in hope of free pardon and forgiuenesse Temporarie belieuers may make confession of there sinnes with some griefe and sorrow but as they confesse their sinnes so they belieue their confession is maimed and their faith superficiall they renounce not their interest in the world which inferres the willing choice of some inferiour good before the fauour and loue of God and their beliefe of the promises is shallow and subordiâ—ate to their base earthly passions But
downe before them in the Word and not deiect themselues without cause as though they were vtterly destitute of faith in Christ because they want the sence of this assurance and so could doe nothing acceptable because it is not done in faith nor tire themselues in a preposterous course not knowâ—ng where to lay the foundation or beginne their worke Three prerogatiues doe euer accompany this confident assurance of our Reconciliation with God Three prerogatiues that accompany coâ—fident assurance First Peace with God or stable tranquillitie and sweet calmnesse of Minde Sinne had broken off our friendship and peace with God but being iustified by faith wee haue remission of sinnes and so the cause of enmitie being taken away peace is restored Esay 59.2 Phil 4.7 Euen that peace of God which passeth vnderstanding and is in stead of a guard to keepe our hearts and minds in Christ that golden Legacie which Christ bequeathed vnto his Disciples when hee left the World Iohn 14 27. Ephes 2.16 17. Rom. 5.1 Peace I leaue with you my peace I giue vnto you Being iustified by faith we haue peace with God through our Lord Iesus Christ And from this peace begins liuely consolation against the temptations of sinne Satan and the World from the sence hereof the faithfull soule may triumph with Dauid The Lord is with mee Psal 56.4 Rom 8.33.34 I will not feare what man can doe vnto me and with the Apostle Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods Elect It is God that iustifieth who is he that condemneth Secondly Free accesse vnto the throne of grace with boldnesse and confidence Christ as it were leading vs by the hand into the presence of God that we might enioy his grace in presence When wee were enemies wee fled from the throne of God but being reconciled by his grace we haue free accesse to come into his presence to aske what we will with assurance it shall be done vnto vs. Rom. 5.2 Ephes 2.8 By whom sc Christ also wee haue accesse by faith into this grace wherein we stand Thirdly Ioy in the Holy Ghost vnspeakable and glorious 1. Pet. 1.8 which doth so lift the faithfull aboue the Heauens that being cheared with the Essence of Gods fauour and contented with Christ alone they despise the world and the base things therein Rom. 5.2 3. We reioyce in hope of the glory of God And not only so but we glory in tribulations also Thus Dauid prayed Psal 51.8 12. Make mee to heare ioy and gladnesse Restore vnto me the ioy of thy saluation All these rare and pretious priuiledges spring from faith for without faâ—th no man can please God Heb. 11.8 by faith wee haue peace with God by faith we come vnto him by faith we reioyce in him Rom. 15.13 Phil. 1.25 The God of Hope fill you with all ioy and peace in belieuing In whom wee haue boldnesse and accesse with confidence by the faith of him But this faith which highly aduâ—nceth the Belieuer to boast in God all the day long lifteth not vp it selfe waxeth not proud towards the Lord. Free remission sweet peace assurance of Gods fauour familiar and heauenly communion with him and whatsoeuer rich token of speciall and intire good will God bestoweth these cannot puffe vp but abase the Belieuer in himselfe the higher hee is exalted by the free mercy of God the lower hee humbleth himselfe before God Ezek. 16.62 63 36.31 32. I will establish my couenant with thee and thou shalt know that I am the Lord That thou mayest remember and be confounded and neuer open thy mouth any more because of thy shame when I am pacified toward thee for all that thou hast done saith the Lord God Sixtly By faith we continue in this blessed state in sweet peace and fellowship with God We can neuer take the eye from Christ but immediately the remembrance of former sinnes doth trouble and vexe the conscience and daily weaknesses and infirmities will breed no small disturbance if we doe not sue forth a daily pardon Therefore as we belieue to Iustification so must we continue in belieuing for the actuall pardon of our daily trespasses The Apostle saith Rom. 4.5 God iustifieth the vngodly but by vngodly in that sentence of Paul he is meant who doth not bring his workes or merits nor looke to his graces qualities acts or vertues in the matter of Iustification but doth bewaile his impietie and flie to the throne of grace for pardon being conuinced of guiltinesse Thus Abraham was all his time comprehended in this Catalogue and is made by the Apostle as a perpetuall so a principall instance of that finall resolution Rom. 3.28 Therefore wee conclude that a man is iustified by faith without the workes of the Law For if belieuing in him that iustifieâ—h the vngodly was imputed for righteousnesse vnto Abraham afâ—er hee had beene for a long time more righteous then the ordinary sort of Gods Saâ—nts or chosen Abraham all this while vnfainâ—dly belieued himselfe to be a sinner no way iustified in himselfe but seeking to be iustified by him who if hee shew not mercy to sinners whilest they bee sinners all mankind should perish vtterly The drift and scope of Paul in the third and fourth to the Romanes is only this That although men may bee truly iust and holy in respect of others and rich in all manner of workes as Abraham was thus farre knowne and approued not by men only but by God yet when they appeare before Gods Tribunall who best knowes as well the imperfection as the truth of their integritie they still acknowledge themselues to bee vnprofitable seruants alwayes praying Lord forgiue vs our sinnes and be mercifull to our offences So that all men euen the most holy are sinners in themselues and in the sight of God in the Apostles sence and are iustified by grace not of debt after the infusion of supernaturall holinesse The sincere and vpright man in whose spirit there is no guile Psal 32.1 2. Rom. 4.4 5 6. is iustified not because of his sinceritie but because the Lord imputeth not that sinne vnto him which he still vnfainedly acknowledgeth to be in him continually praying Lord enter not into iudgement with thy seruant alwayes confessing Lord in thy sight no flesh liuing can be iustified Psal 143.2 to wit otherwise then by not entring into iudgement or by non-imputation of his sinnes And faith that layeth hold vpon the promise of mercie offered in Christ causeth a man euery day to humble himselfe for sinne and to seeke pardon by earnest prayer euery day it receiueth and feedeth vpon the promises made in Christ and so assureth that his sinnes are done away as a mist And thus a Christian may liue by faith for many dayes or rather all the dayeâ— of his life in sweet peace and communâ—on with God if hee will leaâ—ne to maintaine and tâ—ke paines to
vse his faith aright It is to bee lamented that amongst Christians who desire to liue honestly and keepe a good conscience so few know so many neglect the ordinary vse and improuement of their faith as if it serued only to giue them comfort in the remâ—ssion of sinnes at their first conuersion and then had finished all it should or could doe except till they fall into some notable decay if not great offence or bee plunged into deepe doubts or bee exercised with some great afflictions whereas the daily vse and improuement of faith for the continuance and increase of assurance of forgiuenesse peace accesse vnto the throne of grace Ioy and communion with God is as necessarie should be as constant as is the vse of Fire and Water of the Light of Meate or Drinke or whatsoeuer is more ordinary for the comfort of the Bodie Serues faith for entrance and beginnings and not for continuance progresse and encreasings Is faith the breeder and bringer forth of Ioy and Peace and not the Nurse and foster Mother of them cherishing and feeding them till we come to a full and perfect age in Christ All fruits the neerer they câ—me to ripenesse the sweeter they be so is the fruit of faith sweeter in the eare then in the blade If the sence of pardon be pleasant delightsome at the first must it not increase as strength of faith spiritual acquaintance with God encreaseth Is it not easier to preserue peace then to recouer out of dumpes and distresses Euery day to reckon with our soules and get our debts cancelled then to doe it now and then when we haue runne farre behind hand not knowing which way to turne our selues Fire once kindled is kept burning with lesse paines then being oft quenched it can be kindled The labour of maintaining health is much lesse then the toyle of recouering out of sicknesse Let vs then learne to make vse of our faith euery day As euery day to humble our selues before the throne of grace and begge the pardon and forgiuenesse of our sinnes euery day to looke vnto the grounds of comfort and meditate thereupon that we may find ioy and sweetnesse therein euery day to renew our faith in belieuing the pardon of such particular offences as we haue espied in our selues that day and confessed before the Lord with sighes and groanes for mercy Let vs thinke seriously with our selues how excellent a thing it is to be in league of amitie with God how blessed and pleasant a state to bee freed from the feare of death and Hell how rich and comfortable a thing to bee Heire of Glorie Let vs often stirre vp our selues to conuerse with Christ the better we know him Psal 139.17 18 36.7 2. Tim. 1.6 the more delight and contentment we shall take in fellowship and communion with him This is to liue by faith and to stirre vp the grace that God hath giuen vs. This is to maintaine faith that it may serue vs. Fire in the embers glowes not heats not the house Faith in the heart not vsed doth neither increase nor comfort A man may well be said not to haue the wealth he vsâ—th not for his benefit surely he wants the benefit of faith who exerciseth it not Vse limbes and haue limbes The beautie and benefit yea the very increase and perfection of all gifts vertues and graces consisteth in vse and action Exercise perfecteth vnderstanding and memorie strengthens the disposition of the soule increaseth vigour begetteth promptnesse the more thou doest the more thou maist The oftner the liberall man giues Almes and doth good turnes the more his liberalitie growes and shines Let any man diligently and â—hroughly improue his faith and great will bee his faith and great the ioy it will bring in It is our fault if we suffer Satan with light temptations ordinarily to interrupt our spirituall mirth or to detaine vs in dumps and pensiuenesse Did wee but carefully maintaine our faith it would doe away all d stuâ—bance which is within vs agâ—inst our selues and tame the rebellion of lust against the spirit of the minde renewed it would secure vs against the power of enemies inward or outward that they should not be able to hurt vs much lesse to preuaile agaiâ—st vs and represse or vanquish all perturbations which spirituall wickednesses vnbeliefe want of godly contentaâ—ion defects in our condition might occasion it would expell vnquietnesse keepe vnder passions allay feâ—res and griefes and calme the boisterous stormes of discontent Let vs keepe our faith and it will keepe our Ioy It will keepe it an euen euer-flowing current without ebbe flow cloudes and eclipses let vs increase our faith it will increase our ioy But to what measure of Ioy may a growne Christian attaine To what measure of ioy a Christian may attaine if hee be carefull to pâ—eserue and stirre vp his faith It is a small thing for him to come to an ordinarie pitch of chearefulnesse except his ioy exceeds the mirth of a worldling in the qualitie and quantitie of it If his mirth be not a sweeter and more rauishing mirth of an higher kind of a more pure nature of a most constant tenure then any carnall mans what-euer he disparages faith The Christians ioy 1 Pet. 1.8 Rom. 14.17 is ioy vnspeakable and glorious ioy in the Holy Ghost another manner of Ioy then euer entred into the heart of a naturall man So is that text to be construed 1. Cor. 2.9 10. eye hath not seene c. not chiefly of the ioyes of Heauen which here the spirituall man himselfe cannot tell what they shall bee but of the Gospels ioy Calu. in 1. Cor. â— 9 Iun. par lib. 2. pa. 31. of the wine and fatlings alreadie prepared and now reuealed to the Belieuer by the Spirit which if the carnall man scorne and scoffe at it is because hee cannot comprehend it It is a more pure and constant ioy which needs not the support of earthly delights his ioy is within he ioyes in the fauour of God which is vnchangeable It beseemes not a Christian to be merrie in one estate dumpish in another as if their ioy depended vpon their outward condition No no the fauour of God alone is sufficient to vphold a good mans ioy Iohn 16.22 Rom. 5.3 Iames 1.2 Your ioy no man taketh from you We glory in tribulations also And great reason for if sinne bee pardoned euery thing causeth a progresse of saluation Were it not odious to see one professing some l berall Science to liue by lewd and dishonest shifâ—ing No better fight is it to see a Christian hanging his ioy vpon course and earthly pleasures who hath more noble and generous yea Angelicall delights then which what hath Heauen better but in degree only and manner of fruition Psal 36.7 8 9. How excellent is thy lâ—uing kindnesse O God therefore the children of men put their trust vnder the shadow of
thy wings They shall be abundantly satisfied with the fatnesse of thy house and thou shalt make them drinke of the riuer of thy pleasures For with thee is the fountaine of life in thy light shall we see light It is a pleasure to him to want other pleasures who is oft and euery day serious in the meditation of the remission of his sinnes the free grace and eternall loue of God towards him in Iesus Christ He that is euery day busied to fetch out a pardon of course for his daily infirmities and to make euen reckoning betwixt God and his Soule that nothing remaine on the score to interrupt his peace shall neither be idle nor vnprofitable neither want imployment nor comfort This course can open no gap to licentiousnesse libertie in sinne Psal 19.12 13. or carnall securitie for he is euer most studious not to runne into arrerages who is most desirous to haue his debts cancelled and blotted out Faith is of the nature of souereigne purifying waters which so wash off the corruption of the vlcer that they coole the heate and stay the spread of the infection and by degrees heale the same And of Cordials which so comfort and ease the heart as also they expell noxious humours and strengthen nature against them Iustifying faith takes kindly rooting in a cleane heart and being rooted purifieth it more and more Faith that pleads for mercie doth cleaue to the Commandements stirre vp to holinesse ouer-rule the affections delight in purity and diffuse the vertue of the word into euery facultie of the soule It may be obiected If faith certifie that our sinnes be pardoned and there be such ioy in belieuing how comes it to passe that many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubt Wence it is that many good Christians liue so long in feare and doubâ— who would bee contented to take any paines to bee setled in assurance of Gods loue The common causes of this slownesse of beliefe are many First an immoderate aggrauation of their sinne and continuall thought of their vnworthinesse Thus the case stands with many poore Christians faine they would belieue as they acknowledge but they are vnworthy they haue beene sinners These must knowe it is good they should see their owne vnworthinesse but not that they should be hindred thereby from comming to Christ it is good to denie themselues but not to doubt of the mercy of the Lord. Christ came to seeke that which was lost Math. 18.11 Esay 61.1.2 Math. 9.13 1. Pet. 3.18 Rom. 5.10 Math. 11.28 to binde vp the broken hearted and to saue sinners He died for his enemies for the vnworthy He inuiteth the burdened to come vnto him and makes sute to the poore and worthlesse that he might ease and inrich them If they were not vnworthy what neede had they of Gods mercy or how should God glorifie the riches of his mercy in pardoning their offences The feeling of their vnworthines makes them fit to receiue mercy from God who doth vâ—uchsafe it freely seeing besides their sinne which makes them vnworthy they haue a sence of it and an heart broken for it If they were not vnworthy they could noâ— belieue If their case had not beene desperate what neede was there that Christ should come from the bosome of his Father Esay 43.25 and 44.22 Hos 14.3.4 Pardon is offered freely of grace the more vile they be in themselues the fitter to receiue this vndeserued kindnesse Oh but their sinnes are grieuous and notorious scarlet crying scandalous sinnes This detestation of sinne is greatly to bee commended if they remember withall Ezra 10.2 that there is hope in Israel concerning this if they will set one eye vpon the mercy of God as they set the other vpon the vilenesse of their iniquities If their sinnes be many and great Eph. 2.4 Psal 3â— 5 Psal 51.1.2 Exod. 34.6.7 Esay 55.9 God is rich in mercy abundant in goodnesse hath a multitude of tender mercies His mercie reacheth aboue the Heauens he forgiueth iniquitie transgressioÌ„ sin rebellion All faults are easily pardonable to his infinite mercy which exceeds Mans as Heauen doth Earth which can readilier forgiue seuentie then Man seuen offences Was not Adam Manasses Paul the sinfull woman commonly called Mary Magdalene 2 Chron. 33.12.13 1. Tim. 1.13.15 Act. 2.37.38 Luk. 7. â—7 the Cretians and Iewes who imbrewed their hands in the bloud of Christ receiued of him to mercie Doth not â—e delight to forgiue much that he may binde to loue much Shall not his fauour superabound to the sence of faith where sinne hath abounded to the wounding of Conscience It matters not what the wound is so Christ be the Physitian Iohn 1.7 Esay 1.18 The bloud of Christ cleanseth vs from all sinne Nothing but the bloud of Christ can wash away the guilt of the least sin and his bloud is sufficient to purge the most polluted Conscience But they haue felt no extraordinary measure of sorrow for sinne they are rather dull and sencelesse Are they weary of sinne haue they sorrowed to selfe-deniall and to renounce their interest in whatsoeuer might seperate betwixt Christ and them To such is the word of Reconciliation sent But they haue often slipped into the same sinnes There is a difference of offences There be sinnes of ignorance infirmity forgetfulnesse and sudden passion whereunto the heart yeeldeth not aduised consent and from which the faithfull by reason of their frailtie can neuer be free in this life in some degree or other Now vnto these God of his mercy is pleased to grant a pardon of course 1. Iohn 1.8 1. Iohn 2.2 notwithstanding his seruants step oft into them through weaknesse prouided they humble themselues seeke mercy and labour the mortification of their infirmities Abraham twice denied Sarah to be his wife saying Shâ— is my Sister Of Dauid it is recorded that though hee were a man after Gods owne heart in all things except the matter of Vriah yet of frailtie hee offended many times in the same particular There bee foule enormious notorious sins which wound the conscience and stop and hinder the liuely operation of grace and these mâ—st be repented of and aduisedly left and forsâ—ken before we can belieue to the pardon and forgiuenesse of them Neuerthelesse if a man haue often fallen into these offences he is not to despaire but seriously to confesse and to forsake hiâ— sinne that he may obtaine mercy For the Lord inuiteth the obstinate and rebellious to repent and by word and oath assureth them of forgiuenesse if they will returne And if wee looke vpon examples we shall finde many such who vpon humiliation and earnest prayer haue beene receiued vnto mercy But they haue fallen grieuously since conuersion So did Dauid and Peter who yet recouered by grace and vpon repentance were forgiuen A foule offence after grace receiued is not vnpardonable The bloud of Christ which washeth away the guilt of sinnes
that my lips may sing of thy prayse all the day long Fourthly He must comfort his heart in the certaintie of Gods Word though for the present he feele no comfort Returne vnto thy rest O my soule for the Lord will deale bountifully with thee His Word is gone forth in truth waite a little while and thou shalt behold the light of his countenance The Lord deferreth to grant the comfort of forgiuenesse Why God deferreth to grant the profit of forgiuenesse that hee might confirme faith traine thee vp in obedience trie thy patience preserue his graces and doe thee good in the later end Thou art alreadie blessed because the grant of pardon is sealed and receiued the sence of deliuerance pertaineth to the execution which for a little season is deferred that it may bee perfected with greater glory to God and comfort to thy selfe Blessed bee the Lord who hath turned away his eyes from my transgressions but hath not turned away his mercy from me Reioyce in the Lord O my soule againe I say reioyce for he hath couered thine iniquities and purged away thy sinne that thou shalt not die Oh the blessednesse of that man whose iniquities are forgiuen to whom the Lord imputeth no sinne Fiftly Thus faith is daily to be preserued and quickened vnto which it is not vnprofitable to adde some thoughts concerning the blessednesse of the Man whose debts are cancelled out of Gods Booke the grace and loue of God who vouchsafeth to shew compassion herein the price that was payed to diuine Iustice that grace might iustly conferre this blessing vpon them that belieue These things may serue to quicken the heart in the consideration of this mercie CHAP. III. What it is to liue by faith touching the promises of Sanctification and how to stirre vp our selues thereunto Of the promises of sanctification THe next spirituall promises of things absolutely necessarie to saluation are concerning Sanctification or the killing of sinne and quickening vs to newnesse of life by the continued infusion of holinesse and renouation of our hearts according to Gods Image and to the enabling vs to walke in new obedience according to couenant And this is signified by the generall tearmes of subduing sauing washing cleansiâ—g and purging from sinne and iniquitie Mic 7.18 19. Who is a God like vnto thee that pardoneth iniquitie and passeth by the trangression of the remnant of his heritage he retaineth not his anger for euer because hee delighteth in mercy He will turne againe he will haue compassion vpon vs hee will subdue our iniquities and thou wilt cast all their sinnes into the depths of the Sea Math. 1.21 He shall saue his p ople from their sinne which as it is true in the matter of our Iustification for the forgiuenesse of our sinne so also in the point of Sanctification for deliuering vs from the power of sinne And so are the like generall speeches to be vnderstood Iohn 1 29. 1 Iohn 2.2 1 Iohn â— 7 that Christ is the Lambe of God which takâ—th away the sinnes of the world that he was manifested to take away our sinnes that the bloud of Christ clenseth vs from all sinne Apoc. 1.5 that hee loued vs and washed vs from our sinnes in his owne bloud And this is that which the Lord of his free mercie promised to effect for his Church and people Esay 4.3 4. And it shall come to passe that he that is left in Zion and he that remaineth in Ierusalem shall be called holy euen euery one that is written among the liuing in Ierusalem When the Lord shall haue washed away the filth of the daughters of Zion and shall haue purged the bloud of Ierusalem from the midst thereof by the Spirit of Iudgement and by the spirit of burning Now seeing we haue such promises from God it followeth necessarily that a Christian is allowed to belieue A Christian is allowed to beleeue these promises that God of his free grace in Christ will purge him from the filthy remainders of sinne and renew him more and more after his owne Image in righteousnesse and true holinesse In the couenant of grace which God made with his people hee promiseth to take away their hearts of stone Ezek. 11.19 Ier. 31.33 32.40 Ezek. 36.26 27 and to giue them hearts of flesh to put his law in their inward parts and write it in their hearts to put his feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from him and to giue them a new heart and to put his Spirit within them But what God promiseth faith receiueth It is no presumption but true obedience to assure our selues from God of whatsoeuer hee hath past his promise and entred into band and couenant freely to giue The burdened are inuited to come vnto Christ for ease and the thirstie for refreshing Is any man dried withered and burnt vp for lacke of the sap and moisture of grace the fountaine is set open vnto him hee may come and drinke to the satisfying of his soule If any man thirst Reuel 22.17 Iohn 7.37 Verse 38. let him come vnto me and drinke He that belieueth on me as the Scripture saith out of his belly shall flow riuers of liuing water Christ is the fountaine of grace and the well of life euer-flowing and euer full John 1.16 Col. 1.19 Ephes 1 23. Col. 3.10 11. Col. 2.10 of whose fulnes euery Belieuer doth receiue grace for grace who filleth all in all who is all in all in whom wee are compleate filled with all heauenly graces which serue to remoue euill or set vs in state of blessednesse There is no grace but from Christ no communion with Christ but by faith From Christ we receiue to belieue and from him belieuing we daily sucke the life of grace Christ is made vnto vs of God Wisdome and Sanctification 1. Cor. 1.30 as well as Righteousnesse and Redemption and as it is our dutie to belieue in Christ for pardon of sinne so to embrace him by faith for sanctification and to bee filled with his gifts of grace in our measure Christ by his bloud hath purchased for his people all spirituall blessings in heauenly things Apoc. 1.5 Ephes 1.3 2. Pet. 1.3 euen all thâ—ngs that pertaine to glory in the world to come and to liue godly in this present world But what Christ hath purchased that we may assuredly belieue God will bestow He will not with-hold any thing that he hath gratiously giuen to our Sauiour on our behalfe We are taught to aske of God in Iesus Christ increase and strength of grace that wee may be inabled to walke before him in new obedience Col. 1.9 10. We cease not to pray for you and to desire that yee might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdome and spirituall vnderstanding That yee might walke worthy of the Lord vnto all pleasing being fruitfull in euery good worke and increasing in
bodie is wearie after labour and requires rest but sinne is euer stirring neuer quiet no not when occasions be wanting And that it might appeare out of measure sinfull it takes occasion by the commandement it resideth the good motions of the Spirit it disinâ—bleth to euery good worke it diffuseth it venome into euery action and leadeth captiue to the committing of sinne against knowledge and conscience The cursed earth is not so apt to bee ouer-growne with weedes bryars thornes and thistles as the soule with lusts passions distempers worldly cares and sinfull delights The law of the flesh rebelleth against the law of the minde and carrieth with violence to the workes of darknesse The Gally-slaues condition is very hard and miserable but the spirituall bond-slaue is in farre worse estate No drudgerie so base as the seruice of sinne no Tyrant so cruell as sinne which allowes no respite or time of refreshing Rom. 7.24 O miserable man that I am who shall deliuer me from this dominion of sinne this bodie of death I haue deeply defiled my selfe by transgression but haue no power to cleanse my heart O Lord I haue defaced thine Image but cannot repaire it I haue yeelded the powers of my soule to the obedience of sin and now I would cast off that subiection and breake those snares I am altogether vnsufficient for it When I would doe well euill is present with me Rom. 7.21 but I finde no meanes to perfect what I desire I cannot desire good my will is so in bondage I am not able to crawle about the doing of that which is good such is my feeblenesse but I want no strength to that which is euill I am apt and readie to goe astray I am inuironed and beset with sinne on euery side oh when shall I be set at libertie that I might doe the worke of God and runne the race of his Commandements Secondly He must looke to the grace truth and power of God who hath promised to sanctifie to the fulnesse and sufficiencie that is in Christ the fountaine of grace He who hath spoken this to mee Hold me and I will set thee free I will circumcise thy heart wash it purge it heale it of all sicknesses and infirmities he that hath spoken it is God Almightie who giueth Being to all visible creatures and that inuisible world of Spirits who calleth the things that are not as if they were who if there were no print of these things in me can worke and create them gloriously as at first he drew this excellent frame of the world out of that confused lumpe or Masse which hee made of nothing And as he is great in power so is he rich in mercie aboundant in goodnesse and truth as ready and faithfull to keepe as hee was free to make the promise His grace is vnsearchable his Word purer then siluer seuen times refined In my selfe I am full of sinne barren and destitute of grace but Christ is an ouer-flowing fountaine who hath plentifully filled all that belieue All the faithfull haue drawne of his fulnesse and yet his store is no whit diminished O my soule trust thou in the Lord and thou shalt be purged from thy filthines replenished with his grace Loe he calleth the thirstie who bee destitute of all sap and fruit of grace to come vnto him that they may be refreshed The Saints who haue beene most enriched with varietie of graces were by nature as poore and destitute as thou art What they had they receiued by faith Belieue as they did and speed with them Why criest thou out distrustfully by reason of thy barrennesse Doth the streaming fountaine denie water to the thirstie traueller No more doth Christ to the emptie parched soule that comes vnto him Thou hast no grace of thy selfe cleaue vnto him and thou shalt want none that may be for thy good He filleth the emptie and satisfieth the poore that he might be acknowledged the wel-spring of all grace and goodnesse Thirdly He must pray instantly vnto the Lord for sanctifying grace Faith obtaineth as a poore petitioner what the Lord promiseâ—h in speciall fauour nor can it belieue longer then it prayeth virtually or actually O Lord thou hast promised to powre water vpon the thirsty Esay 44.3 35.7 Ioel 2.28 and riuers vpon the dry ground I pray thee wash mee throughly from my filthinesse and water me bountifully with the dew of thy grace which may coole and allay the scorching heate of sinne Zech 13.1 Thou hast opened a fountaine to the house of Dauid and to the inhabitants of Ierusalem for sinne and for vncleannesse let the streames thereof flow vpon my drie and barren soule that it may be fruitfull in the workes of holinesse O put thy good Spirit into me which may be as a fountaine of liuing waters springing vnto eternall life Fourthly It is good to moue and quicken the heart quietly to rest in the promise and reioyce in hope Waite on the Lord O my soule and bee glad in him for hee hath giuen Christ to be thy Sanctification He is appointed to bee the beginner and finisher of thy holinesse and surely he will not leaue that worke imperfect whereunto he is ordained of the Father Were the progresse of that building commited to thy care and ouer-sight there might bee cause of feare but since it is laid vpon him thine onely and all-sufficient Redeemer there is no place for doubting Hold him fast and thou art safe Lord increase my faith and keepe me close vnto thee in belieuing for euermore CHAP. IIII. What it is to liue by Faith concerning the promises of euerlasting life AS if it were a light thing that God should forgiue all our sinnes Psal 103.3 4. and heale our infirmities he hath giuen promise of euerlasting life to bee conferred of his rich grace vpon them that belieue in Iesus Christ God so loued the world that he gaue his onely begotten Sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Eternall life is promised Iohn 3.16 And Christ hath purchased life euerlasting no lesse for vs then righteousnesse Heb. 10.19 20. By the bloud of Iesus we may be hold to enter into the Holiest by the new and liuing way which he hath consecrated for vs through the vaile that is to say His flesh For this cause hee is the Mediatour of the New Testament Heb. 9.15 that by meanes of death for the redemption of the transgressions that were vnder the first Testament they which are called might receiue the promise of eternall inheritance And therefore as he is said to haue made reconciliation for iniquitie Dan. 9.24 2 Tim. 1.10 and to haue brought in euerlasting righteousnesse so also to haue abolished death and brought life and immortalitie to light And he makes promise of euerlasting life to them that heare and obey his voice Iohn 10.27 28. Marke 16.16 Acts 16.31 Iohn 6.40 20 31. 1
grace as well as any benefite tending thereunto As we are iustified by faith so wee are saued by faith Eph. 2.8 not in respect of present saluation or redemption whereof here we are pertakers but in respect of glorification to come in due time to be reuealed Belieue on the Lord Iesus Act. 16.31 and thou shalt hee saued By faith wee haue accesse into this grace Rom. 5.2 wherein wee stand and reioyce in the hope of glory When the Apostle saith With the heart Man belieueth vnto righteousnesse Rom. 10.10 and with the mouth confession is made vnto saluation Hâ—e doth not so distinguish these two as if faith were the cause of righteousnes confession of saluation or as if faith were sufficient to righteousnes but not to saluation for hee had often said Rom. 4 16. that wee are saued by faith that the promise is by faith But he describes the qualification of that faith which iustifyeth and saueth namely that it is a stedfast affiance that flyeth to God by heartie supplication and breaketh forth into profession of Gods name The promise is Rom. 10.11 Whosoeuer shall call vpon the name of the Lord shall be saued and faith herein flyeth to the throne of grace with ardent supplications and layeth hold of saluation promised of grace Secondly Faith doth not begin to apprehend life and then leaue it it to works that we might attain the accoÌ„plishment by theÌ„ but it doth euer rest vpon the promise vntill we come to enioy it Heauen is an inheritance freely vouchsafed to the adopted sonnes of God whose interest vnto it commeth by belieuing not by working Rom. 6.23 The gift of God is eternall life through Iesus Christ our Lord if it be a gift of meere fauour it cannot be of workes Eph. 2.8.9.10 Gal. 3.18 If the inheritance be of the Law it is no more of promise but God gaue it to Abraham by promise And that which God will doe about his children in the day of iudgement is called mercy 2. Tim. 1.18 The Lord shew mercy to Onesiphorus in that day The immediate cause of life is Gods grace as the immediate cause of death is sin Rom. 5.21 But if life be of grace it is by faith We are kept by the power of God through faith vnto saluation 1. Pet. 1.5 So that our faith neuer giues ouer till wee come to bee actually possessed of the immortall and vndefiled inheritance reserued for vs in Heauen Thirdly By faith we receiue the promised Spirit as the earnest of our inheritance vntill the redemption of the purchased possession Gal. 3.14 Because ye are sonnes God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Sonne into your hearts crying Ezek. 34.29 Gal. 4 6. Rom. 8.15 Abba Father The holy Ghost doth first infuse the grace of faith into our hearts whereby we belieue but belieuing and being made the sonnes of God wee receiue the Spirit more fully and manifestly dwelling in vs to sanctification and assurance of our Redemption By the benefite of the holy Ghost faith springeth in vs by which faith the abundance of the selfe-same spirit is increased and so of a greater faith is still made a greater increase of the Spirit In whom after yee belieued Ephe. 1.13 yee were sealed with the Spirit of promise He that belieueth Iohn 7.38 out of his belly shall flow riuers of liuing water And these gifts of the Spirit which we receiue by faith from Christ our Head are the beginnings of that glorious life we expect and looke for one in substance different in degrees and according to the measure of grace receiued so is the life of glory begunne in vs. Fourthly Faith in the promises of euerlasting life leadeth forward in the pathes of peace and righteousnes It mortifyeth corruption studyeth holinesse Math. 6.21 raiseth the heart to things aboue and directeth the conuersation according to the pollicie of the new Ierusalem Life eternâ—ll is not giuen for workes but it is the good pleasure of God that his children should be holy and exercise themselues in all good workes Rom. 8.13 Gal. 6.8 If yee through the Spirit doe mortifie the deeds of the body yee shall liue He that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reape life euerlasting Blessed are the pure in heart Math. 5 8. for they shall see God Follow peace with all men and holinesse Heb. 12.14 without which no man shall see the Lord. Charge them that be rich in this world that they bee not high minded nor trust in vncertaine riches but in the liuing God who giueth richly all things to inioy That they doe good that they be rich in good workes ready to distribute willing to communicate 1. Tim. 6.17.18.19 Laying vp in store for themselues a good foundation against the time to come that they may lay hold on eternall life But yee beloued building vp your selues in your most holy faith praying in the holy Ghost keepe your selues in the loue of God Iude verse 20.21 Iam. 1.12.25 Math. 35.34.35 looking for the mercy of our Lord Iesus Christ vnto eternall life Come yâ—e blessed of my Father inherit the kingdome prepared for you from the foundation of the world For I was hungred and yee gaue mee meate c. These and such like passages of Scripture shew not the cause why but the qualification of the persons vnto whom not how it is deserued but what doth precede the bestowing of life eternall And faith that looketh for that blessed hope and layeth hold vpon the promise of that heauenly and incorruptible inheritance lifteth vp the heart into Heauen kindleth loue inflameth with zeale encourage h against difficulties and inciteth to run the way of Gods Commandements If probable hope of great aduantage drawes on the Merchant to vndertake a long and tedious voyage by Sea notwithstanding the many casualties and perils wherewith it is beset faith in the assured promises of God concerning saluation will set a man forward in his Christian iourney hold hâ—m on in his way with courage and chearefulnesse and hearten him to the workes of godlinesse notwithstanding the temptations of Satan the allurements of the world or oppositions of the flesh to the contrarie Phil. 3.20 Our conuersation is in Heauen from whence also wee looke for the Sauiour the Lord Iesus Christ Col. 1.3.4.5 Wee giue thankes to God and since wee heard of your faith in Christ Iesus and of the loue which yee hau to all the Saints For the hope which is laid vp for you in Heauen Heb. 11.13 14.15.16 By faith Abraham Isaâ—c and Iacob confessed that they were pilgrimes and strangers on the earth and hauing oportunitie would not returne into their owne countrey because they desired a better countrey that is an heauenly Fiftly It seeketh to get our title confirmed and assured to the conscience by euidence and earnest or pawne it exerciseth it selfe vpon the
good courage feare not nor be afraid of them for the Lord thy God he it is that doth goe with thee hee will not faile thee nor forsake thee Of our selues we haue no strength to preuaile against the strong one in the world all our victories must come of God 1. Pet. 1.5 Gen. 3.15 Rom. 16.20 his power doth all our workes for vs. Wee are kept by the power of God vnto saluation he bruiseth the Serpents head he dissolueth the workes of the Deuill he treadeth Satan vnder feete The chiefest strength of souldiers lyeth in their Captaine who yet must fight for themselues and him by their owne power and skill but all our strength lyeth in Christ the Captaine that leadeth vs to saluation from whom wee receiue all power and abilitie to doe what is good whose Almightie power subdueth all things for vs. Wee our selues before our conuersion are of no strength Rom. 5.6 2. Cor. 3.5 Act. 3.16 not sufficient to thinke a good thought all our sufficience is of God But we cannot be strong in the Lord and in the power of his might Eph. 6.10 vnlesse we belieue and leane vpon it Gods strength is the matter apprehended Exod. 14.13 faith the hand whereby we apprehend it This is our strength stand still feare not behold the saluation of the Lord. If wee had the strength of our first parents and were left to our selues wee should come short of happinesse this is all our securitie Psal 108.13 that it is Gods strength being trusted vnto by faith that must helpe vs to saluation Through God wee shall doe valiantly hee is our shield tower 1. Ioh. 5.4 Math. 16.18 rocke strength and glory Faith is of force to keepe vs against all assaults of the Deuill This is our victorie which ouercommeth the world this is so mightie that the powers of Hell cannot preuaile against it Faith doth latch the fierie darts of the Deuill Eph. 6.16 that they fall off without piercing vs or if they enter it doth quench and allay their burning heate that they shall not kill vs. Peter had the dart stucke in him a while but faith did renew repentance and healed him making the poyson of sinne a Treacle Paul was buffeted with inward suggestions and had troubles as thicke as haile-stones following him yet all these preuailed not against him 1. Tim. 14.7 because hee kept the faith The Deuill will renew his assaults against vs and we must renew our courage and strength against him which cannot be done vnlesse wee liue by faith Hee that hath no trust in himselfe but leaneth on the power of God will though he fall often still haue hope and bee courageous to set vpon his enimies with fresh assaults after some foyle receiued For he that knowes hee hath no strength cannot wonder if when God leaueth him he doe fall and he that maketh Gods strength his stay The acts of faith in respect of these temptations though he be neuer so farre from a thing yet will not cast away hope in time to obtaine The acts of faith in respect of temptation be these or such like First Faith makes sensible that we cannot resist of our selues By Satans force the mightie Cedars haue beene ouerthrowne and with more case we might be ouerturned But yet when hee rageth with greatest fury it assureth that hee is chained vp by the power of Almightie God and can goe no further then he will giue him leaue Well may the Deuill barke and roare like a band-dogge or Lion safely chained or shut vp but hee cannot stirre further then God is pleased to let him lose Hee cannot tempt whom hee will nor when hee will nor how hee would not by what meanes nor in what measure hee would nor with what temptations nor for what continuance in all these he is confined by the prouidâ—nce of God who hath promised that he will not suffer vs to be tempted aboue that we are able but will with the temptation also make a way to escape 1. Cor. 10.12 Marke 5.12 that we may be able to beare it A legion of Deuils could not enter into a Gadarene Hogge till Christ had giuen them leaue Satan cannot touch one Bleate pertaining to Iob till he haue obtained libertie Iob 1.12 2.6 nor then lay a finger vpon his bodie till his libertie be renewed The Deuill is the sinfull Authour of Temptations whereby he seekes to molest and ouerthrow the Saints but God in his infinite wisdome and mercie doth limit them both in respect of time place person and temptation it selfe and direct them to such an end as Satan neuer intended Faith speaketh on this wise Satan desires to fift me as wheate but it is the Lord who hath made choice of this temptation wherewith I am exercised rather then another and hath set bounds to the spirituall enemies of my soule what time they shall continue to assaile how farre they shall proceed and no further and will direct the temptation to a good end aboue all I can conceiue therefore I will not feare the enemy but waite vpon the Lord. Secondly It discouereth the Methods of Satan and his Ends in tempting 1. Cor. 2.11 The Deuils aimes are not euer one and the same Alwayes hee labours the destruction of the Saints but his wayes whereby he endeuours to effect it are contrarie Sometimes he purposeth to entice vnto sin by his allurements sometimes to vexe trouble and driue into despaire at least to make the life of a Christian vncoÌ„fortable with his manifold and hellish assaults This is wisely discerned by faith whereby the stratagems of our Aduersary are more easily disappointed For as an Enemy who intends by policie to get the victorie is more then halfe ouercome when his plot is disclosed so it is here Satan is soone discomfited when his intents and proiects are manifested and made knowne Thirdly It lifteth vp the heart to crie and complaine vnto God of the crueltie and malice of that spirituall Aduersary but suffers it not to muse vpon his blasphemous temptations or to conferre with them If Rabshakeh reuile the liuing God Esay 36.21 the people of Iudah will hold their peace and not answere him a word least being inraged he should blaspheme the more Direct opposition in such cases stirreth vp the outragious blasphemer to grow more furious When the Deuill requires of our Sauiour to fall downe and worship him hee reasons not the case but repelleth him with detestation Auoid Satan Math. 4.20 Giuing vs to vnderstand that the blasphemous may not be reasoned with if they should it would make them but burst forth into greater outrage against the peerelesse wisdome of God Wherefore if Satan buffet vs with suggestions of this nature it is our wisdome to turne from him and to make our complaint vnto the Lord. So Hezekiah spred the blasphemous letter of Sennacherib Esay 37.14 before the Lord And when the enemies
of Dauid insulted ouer him as though there had beene no helpe for him in his God he crieth Lord how are mine enemies increased Psal 3.1 Fourthly By faith the poore soule eying the promise betakes it selfe vnto the Lord for succour promised to be defended against the malice of that roaring Lion Math. 16.18 It is the promise of our Sauiour that Hell gates shall not preuaile against his faithfull people they shall fight against them but not preuaile When the spirit of man begins to faint faith bids him bee of good courage for there is helpe in Heauen The Deuill may thrust sore at thee but shall not get the victory Psal 91.2 3. for God is with thee If the Lord plunge thee into the Sea he will goe downe with thee thither to keepe thee that thou shalt not bee drowned although Hell gates had shut mouth against thee yet there his Almighty hand will be with thee Esay 50.7 8 9. and from thence his arme will deliuer thee Feare not for the Lord will be thy defence and the shadow of his wings thy couer Fiftly It stirreth vp courage and resolution to set vpon the practice of godlinesse and the duties of our particular calling with diligence and chearefulnesse as the meanes sanctified of God to procure freedome For despaire dumpishnesse foregoing the meanes of grace and neglect of our calling these are the things which Satan labours to driue vs vnto we doe him the greatest pleasure that may be when we yeeld vnto him therein Excessiue feare brings that vpon vs from which especially we desire to be freed and ties vp the powers of the soule that it can make no resistance Cowardise and fainting sorrow put courage into our Aduersarie valour resolution and confidence forceth him to giue backe When wee giue place to doubting deiectednesse inordinate tyrannicall feares wee put our selues into the hands of our Enemie but the victory is ours when by faith in the power and mercy of the Lord we raise vp our hearts in courage and buckle our selues to the duties that lie before vs according to abilitie granted of God When wee are idle and solitarie Satan hath most aduantage to molest and disquiet as the thiefe hath to steale when the doore stands wide open but conscionable imployment shutteth the doore against him and takes away opportunitie This is the voice of faith though Satan furiously assaile thee be not dismayed when his temptations bee most fierce bee thou most diligent in the meanes of grace the practice of holinesse the labours of an honest calling pray earnestly call to remembrance the promises of grace exercise thy selfe in workes of mercy Make this vse of all his malitious assaults that thou be quickened to sticke faster vnto the word of promise lift vp thy heart to craue his aide with confidence and take courage to labour more earnestly in the paths of righteousnesse For Satan will then cease to vexe with his temptations when that which he puts as a stumbling blocke wee make a spurre and incitement to more diligence in wel-doing Sixtly It fortifieth the soule against all inuasions For the perswasions of faith are most forcible the strength of faith inuincible Satan indeuours by horrible and fearefull iniections to driue the poore soule to despaire Faith hearteneth him the more to belieue and keepe close vnder the shadow of the Lords wings For the Deuill is let loose to chase vs neerer home that we might sticke faster vnto the Lord as the childe affrighted will cling vnto the mother Satan desires by carnall allurements and outward obiects to draw him from God which he inforceth with all subtiltie Faith opposeth stronger perswasions to wel-doing it setteth before him the terrours of death eternall if he reuolt the comforts of grace and the ioyes of Heauen if wee continue constant in comparison whereof all carnall inticements be of no moment When the Deuill cannot preuaile by flatteries hee seekes by force and violence to ouerthrow the poore seruants of Christ Faith buildeth it selfe vpon Christ the euerlasting rocke resisteth in his name and getteth the victory The Belieuer is too weake of himselfe to withstand the least assault but relying vpon the Lord through his power he is made victorious in the greatest Seuenthly Faith is vigilant and watchfull at all times in all places vpon all occasions against all sins with all degrees thereof specially against sins of constitution calling the time company corrupt education the first rise of sinne-delighting motions and sinnes of solitarinesse that it bee not circumuented by the wiles of Satan Faith may slumber and take a nap for a little season when it is ill at ease but the propertie of faith when liuely and in good plight is to keepe waking For nothing is more wisely fearefull then faith nor more cautelous and circumspect then holy feare Nothing more carefull and suspitious then faith more waking and industrious then holy care and suspition Nothing more couetous and couragious then faith more watchfull then couetousnesse and courage Faith makes a man iealous of himselfe lest hee take cold catch a knocke or bee deceiued cautelous and circumspect that the Deuill get not aduantage set not vpon him at vnawares desirous to keepe standing grow in grace liue in peace with God and valiant in the Name of God to take armes in the cause and quarrell of God against principalities powers and spirituall wickednesses Feare care suspition couetousnesse courage any one of these is sufficient to keepe waking in earthly things and when all of them ioyntly concurre shall they not haue this effect in spirituall Satan is vigilant to tempt as hee can espie his opportunitie and faith is watchfull to auoid the snare or withstand the assault Eightly In the most forcible tempests which the enemy raiseth against vs when to present sence and feeling all sight and hope of the grace and goodnesse of God in Iesus Christ is lost faith tels the heart that a calme is at hand When the strength of the enemy is wasted and his prouision decayed that he hath no hope to continue the siege long hee will make one or two furious assaults against the place before his departure intending to winne the horse or lose the spurres Reuel 12.12 as the Prouerbe goeth so it is with Satan his rage is greatest when his time is shortest Euen as the darknesse is greatest a little before day so the grand pieces which the Deuill keepes in store vntill the case bee desperate bee with the claps they giue and mists they send forth messengers of his retiring and our deliuerance which is before the doore Math. 4.10 11. Luke 4.13 The last temptation wherewith Satan set vpon Christ was the most furious and when he could not preuaile thereby he departed from him for a season The Lord knowes well the malice of Satan and the weaknesse of his children his furie to deuoure and their frailtie to stand long in the encounter therefore he
cease to muse on the tentations of Satan and stirre vp himselfe couragiously valiantly to trust in the mercies of the Lord and relie vpon his grace Why art thou cast downe Psal 43.5 O my soule and why art thou disquieted within mee why dost thou harbour perplexing doubtfull thoughts and in much pensiuenesse tosse too and fro the tentations of Satan Psal 39.3 This musing kindles the fire the more thou thinkest vpon the tentat on and art disquieted with doubtings the greater libertie hath the Deuill to tempt the lesse able are thou to with-stand his malice If thou bee deiected he will be insolent if thou be affâ—ighted he will bee the more furious Trust therefore in the Lord and waite vpon his grace for hee hath seene thine aduersitie he will heare thy prayers the sinnes cleauing to the tentations which thou so much fearest are pardoned forgiuen vnto thee Euill thoughts conceiued with delight pleasure and purpose are most displeasing vnto God dangerous vnto the soule but euen hellish tentations which neuer found consent or approbation vnder which thou art humbled from which thou earnestly crauest to bee deliuered doubt not but vpon thine vnfained suite they are freely remitted and done away Be strong and of good courage feare not nor be dismaied for the Lord will be thy defence and vnder the shadow of his wings thou shalt be safe Satan cannot tempt longer then God shall giue him leaue and hee will neuer suffer thee to be tempted aboue measure but will giue a good issue vnto the tentation 1. Cor. 10 13. Thou art called to fight vnder the banner of Christ Iesus and in the name of the Lord thou shalt be inabled to doe valiantly and ouercome Psal 60.12 2. Cor. 12.9 If Satan continue his assaults Gods grace is sufficient for thee If thy strength be cleane gone Gods power shall be magnified the more in thee and he hath brought thee low that thou maist not trust in thy selfe 2. Cor. 1.9 but in the liuing Lord and that the whole praise of the victory might bee ascribed vnto him If thy strength did remaine it was not to be leaned vnto and now it is decayed and gone there is no cause of feare for the Lord w ll be thy stay In the most difficult assaults and tedious encounters wee are exhorted Ephes 6.10 to bee strong in the Lord and in the power of his might Be of good courage and God will grant thee an easie a ioyfull victorie Satans drift in tempting is to turmoile dis-hearten perplexe with feares and driue into despaire and if thou take heart and courage to rest quietly vpon Gods grace and flie vnto his Name thou shalt put him to flight thou hast alreadie got the day Waite but a while and these darke mists and terrible stormes shall be dispersed By these temptations the Lord hath taught thee to see thy weaknesse and the malice of Satan to denie thine owne wisdome and prize his fauour lightly to esteeme all things here below and highly to value mercy reaching to the pardon of sinne and heauenly communion and fellowship with God And if this bitter potion hath wrought so kindly for thy spirituall good why shouldst thou bee dismayed Trust in the Lord bee of good courage and hee shall strengthen thee Psal 31.24 27.14 Psal 34.22 The Lord redeemeth the soule of his seruants and none of them that trust in him shall be desolate Fourthly He must exercise himselfe in wel-doing harbour holy and heauenly meditations nourish the motions of Gods Spirit bee zealous and diligent in Prayer reading and hearing the Word of God chearefull and industrious in the workes of his honest calling For idlenesse and deiected lumpishnesse and excessiue feare prepare for all temptations but serious and good imployment is a speciall meanes to preuent or diuert them In this case constant proceeding in a course of godlinesse and continuall exercise of Minde and Bodie in that which is good and pleasing in the sight of God doth much more auaile then direct opposition I haue too long vexed and turmoiled my selfe with the temptations of Satan broken off the exercise of godlinesse directly to answere and oppose them yeelded to thoughts of vnbeliefe giuen way to discouragements as if it had beene in vaine to pray omitted the dutie vpon conceit of vnfitnesse dulnesse vnworthinesse accounted the duties of my calling tedious and burthensome set open my heart to intangling scruples and distracting feares questioning the loue of God towards me vpon euery false suggestion and concluding oft through vnbeliefe that God had shut vp h s louing kindnesse for euer in displeasure So foolish haue I beene and ignorant euen in this point a beast Pardon O Lord the infidelity doubting deiectednesse and carnall excessiue feares of thy poore seruant deliuer my soule from the snares of Satan acquaint me with his Methods in tempting and how I may preuent him and strengthen me in the combate that I neuer faint nor breake off the course of godlinesse through vnbeliefe I am purposed through thy grace to cast my soule vpon thy tender mercies to seeke thy face continually to waite vpon thee in thine ordinances and to exercise my selfe in the workes of Pietie Mercie and an honest calling If Satan tempt to distrust raise feares seeke to discourage my soule or break off my prayers by his hellish suggestions I will striue to maintaine my faith lay faster hold vpon the promises of mercy stop mine eares against scruples and doubtings take greater courage to draw nigh vnto God belieue the acceptance of my willing though weake seruice and by how much the Deuill shall seeke to oppose or hinder my comfort courage or constancie so much the more will I stirre vp my selfe to goe forward and continue therein The Lord will heare a sigh or groane bottle vp a teare and gratiously accept poore and meane seruice from a sick childe I perceiue the maine scope of Satan in suggesting hellish temptations is to driue me into despaire disquiet the soule with feares cast me into deepe vnprofitable sorrow and discourage in euery holy dutie that I might altogether neglect it or with great heartlesnesse go about it as if it were vnprofitable should neuer be accepted And I shall then preuent Satan and put him to flight when I take occasion by his temptations to sticke closer vnto the word of promise stirre vp my selfe zealously to seeke the fauour of God turne my thoughts from disputing about his suggestions pray that I may be fitted to pray waite vpon God for helpe begge the pardon of daily infirmities and take heart and resolution to commit my soule vnto him in wel-doing striuing daily to reforme what is amisse and grow in grace but not questioning acceptance because of my infirmities present dulnesse and distemper of soule being wasted and spent Psal 17.13 whiles I struggled with the temptations of the Deuill Arise O Lord disappoint Satan cast him downe
will the Lord waite that he may be gracious vnto you and therefore will he be exâ—lted that he may haue mercy vpon you The Lord hath commanded vs to waite vpon him in the dayes of calamitie and sorrow Hab. 2.4 The Iust shalâ— liue by faith It is the ve y scope of this text to teach this one po nt of doctrâ—ne to the Iewes when they would be oppressed by the Babilonions viz that in greatest dâ—ngers the onely way is to stay our selues and establish our hearts by faith on Gods promises Confidence in God doth the more bind and oblige him Psal 37.40 as it were to doe vs good The Lord shall helpe the righteous and deliuer them hee shall deliuer them from the wicked and saue them because they trust in him Esay 26.3 Thou wilt keepe him in perfect peace whose minde is stayed on thee because hee hath trusted in thee I will surâ—ly deliuer thee Ier. 39.18 and thou shalt not fall by the word but thy life shall bee for a prey vnto thee because thou hast put thy trust in me saith the Lord. If a friend â— lie and builde vp our faithfull promise we take our sâ—ues boâ—nâ— not to frâ—strate his exp ctation in a â—ead lift Psal 141.8 the Lord will neuer leaâ—e the soule destitute which trusts in him The faithfull haue promised themselues helpe and confidently begged aide because they trusted in the Lord Be mercifull vnto me O God Psal 57.1 be mercâ—full vnto me for my soule trusteth in thee yea in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge vntill these calamities bee ouer past Cause me to heare thy louing kindnesse in the Morning for in thee doe I trust Psal 143.8.9 cause me to know the way wherein I should walke for I lift vp my soule vnto thee Deliuer mee O Lord from mine enemies for I flie vnto thee to hide me And to hope in God and to haâ—e God for our helpe are linked together in Scripture so that his helpe is reâ—die for all them who rest vpon him in truth Happy is he that hath Psal 146.5 the God of Iacob for his helpe whose hope is in the Lord his God Acts of faith in respect of these promises The acts of faith in respect of these promises be these First It looketh vnto God and acknowledgeth his hand in all afflictions whosoeâ—er bee the instruments Shall there be euill in a Citie Esay 45.7 Amos 3.6 Iob. 1 21. and they Lord hath not done it The Lord gaue and the Lord hath taken away I know O Lord that thy iudgments are right and that thou in faithfulnesse hast afflicted mee Psal 119.75 If yee endure chastening God dealeth with you as with sonnes Heb. 12.7 for what sonn is he whom the Father chasteneth not And this is one speciall ground of humilation patience and comfort Come and let vs returne vnto the Lord Hos 6.1 for he â—ath torne and he will heale vs. My sonne despise not thou the chastening of the Lâ—rd neither be wearie of his â—rrection For whom the Lord loueth he correcteth Pro 3.11.12 euen 〈◊〉 a father the sonne in whom he delighteth Let him curse for the Lord hath bidden him It may be that the Lord will looke on mine affliction and that the Lord will requite good for his cursing this day But of these more particularly hereafter Secondly It teacheth that wee are in such distresses out of which none cane helpe vs but the strong helper of Israel Faith speaketh on this manner We haue no might against this great companie 2 Chro. 20.21 that commeth against vs neither know we what to doe but our eyes are vpon thee And great is the benefit of this instruction for it drawes the heart from carnall repose in meanes or friends it expells vexations and distracting cares and estranges from the vse of vnlawfull meanes of deliuerance whatsoeuer Pro. 21.31 Psal 33.16.17 The horse is prepared against the day of battell but safety is of the Lord. An horse is but a vaine thing to saue a man neither is any man deliuered by his great strength And the same may be said of wisedome swiftnesse wealth or the force of any meanes whatsoeuer Eccl. 9.2 Psal 127.1 Esay 30.7 and 31.3 though neuer so lawfull or likely But as for vnlawfull meanes no good successe can be hoped from them The Egyptians shall helpe in vaine and to no purpose therfore haue I cryed concerning this their strength is to sit still Thirdly It wisely directeth vs to consider that the cause of all miserie and sorrow is sinne and thereupon driues to examine our wayes humble our selues before God for mercy renew our hope in his grace and set vpon reformation of what is out of order Faith is a good Physition Hos 5.15 that seeketh to cure the disease by taking away the cause thereof when God takes tryall of vs that wee might know our selues faith maketh search into the heart 1. Cor. 11.31 Lam. 3.40 when hee iudgeth by his chastisements faith maketh vs to iudge our selues and when God striketh for sinne faith striketh at the head of sinne Let vs search and try our wayes and turne againe to the Lord. I thought on my wayes Psal 119.59 and turned my feete vnto thy testimonies When Manasses was in affliction 2. Chro. 33.12 Iob 34.31.32 hee besought the Lord his God and humbled himselfe greatly before the God of his Fathers Surely it is meete to be said vnto God I haue borne chastisement I will not offend any more That which I see not teach me if I haue done iniquitie I will doe no more Fourthly Faith meekeneth the heart willingly to submit it selfe to the good pleasure of God Psal 37.7 Psal 62.1.5 Lam. 3.16 Esay 30.15 and patiently to beare his correctioÌ„ Rest in the Lord waite patiently for him fret not thy selfe because of him who prospereth in his way Yet vnto God my soule keepe thou silence for from him is my expectation By faith the seruants of God haue beene enabled to say The word of the Lord is good Esay 39.8 Mic. 7.9 I will beare the indignation of the Lord because I haue sinned against him vntill he plead my cause 2. Sam. 15.26 and execute iudgement for mee If he say thus I haue no delight in thee behold here am I Psal 131.2 let him doe to me as seemeth good vnto him Surely I haue behaued and quieted my selfe as a child that is weaned of his Mother my soule is euen as a weaned child I was as a man that heareth not Psal 38.14.15 and in whose mouth are no reproofes For in thee O Lord doe I hope Guiltinesse of Conscience which is euer fearefull and vntamed passions make vnquietnes when the rod of God is vpon our backes both which are corrected by faith The conscience is comforted by faith resting vpon the gracious promises
This dependance on the promises which faith worketh is absolute without limitation of time measure of affliction or manner of deliuerance All these it referreth to the good pleasure of Gods will Esay 28.16 and reposeth it selfe securely vpon his faithfull word and prouidence He that belieueth will not make haste Feare rides post to out-runne danger and folly turnes ouer with speed our mourning part before God delighting to be in the house of laughter but faith which leaneth vpon the promises of truth makes no haste without good speed Dan. 9.2 Daniel waited seuentie yeares for deliuerance out of captiuitie in Babylon and then finding the time of redemption to be at hand hee prayed to God for the same As for the measure of affliction or meanes of deliuerance Iob 13.15 the voice of faith may be heard in Iob and Abraham The one promised he would trust in God though he should kill him The other being commanded to sacrifice his onely Sonne Isaac Heb. 11.19 the sonne of the promise belieued that some other way he should receiue him from the dead This effect faith bringeth forth when all meanes faile yea against all oppositions in shew neuer so strong and irresistible Esay 63.5 For the meanes of themselues be of no worth and validitie and God is the same one and vnchangeable whosoeuer oppose themselues against his determinations most readie to succour when all meanes faile God is our refuge and strength Psal 46.1 2 3. a very present helpe in trouble Therefore will wee not feare though the earth be remoued and though the mountaines be cast into the midst of the Sea Psal 49.5 Psal 56.4 Though the waters thereof roare and bee troubled though the mountaines shake with the swelling thereof Wherefore should I feare in the dayes of Euill when the iniquity of my heeles that is the wickednesse my feet carried mee to shall compasse me about Ezra 8.21 For the hand of our God is vpon all them for good that seeke him but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him The Lord is my light and my saluation Psal 27.1 2 3. Psal 3 6. Psal 54.4 5. whom shall I feare The Lord is the strength of life of whom shall I be afraid Though an host should encampe against me my heart shall not feare Behold God is my helper Psal 118.7 Psal 46.5 7. the Lord is with them that vphold my soule He shall reward euill vnto mine enemies cut them off in thy truth But for support in this case faith turneth it selfe to meditate on Gods truth which neuer faileth his might which cannot be resisted his wisdome which euer effecteth his owne workes by meanes best approued Psal 116.5 7. in his counsell in the fittest season and his tender compassions whereby hee is ready to succour them that are brought low Psal 22.4 Againe it looketh to the manner of Gods dealing and to the vsuall course which he hath held with his seruants in all ages past Ex. 3.8 5.6 which is to grant deliuerance when the afflictions of his seruants be increased and send helpe when to sense and reason it is furthest off Ezek. 18.4 For euery soule is the Lords as the soule of the father so also the soule of the sonne and what fauour he hath shewed vnto any one he will vouchsafe to euery one that seeketh him diligently if it may bee for their good It is also confirmed by the experience of Gods dealing with vs in former times of distresse and danger Psal 22.9 Thou art he that tooke me out of the wombe thou didst make me hope when I was vpon my mothers breasts I was cast vpon thee from the wombe Psal 71.17 2. Tim 4.18 thou art my God from my mothers belly O God thou hast taught me from my youth hitherunto haue I declared thy wōdrous works For former mercies are as bils obligatorie vnder his hand to assure of future good things as they shall be needfull That which God hath once done for vs in sustaining quickning quieting our spirits with peace which passeth vnderstanding keeping our hearts that hee will doe euery day vnto vs if wee inforce our selues towards him Moreouer a good heart will not cease to accuse checke and condemne it selfe for the Infidelitie distrust and weaknesse of faith that it espieth to incite stirre vp and call vpon it selfe more confidently to waite and trust in the Lord and in bitternesse of heart to seeke and sue vnto him for more strength from aboue Psal 42.5 11. Why art thou cast downe O my soule why art thou disquieted within me Hope in God for I shall yet prayse him for the helpe of his countenance O God my soule is cast downe within me Ninthly Faith belieueth one contrarie in another 9. Act. and out of deepest distresses gathereth assurance of sweetest deliuerances For the Lord shall iudge his people Deut. 32.36 2. Kings 14.26 Psal 9.9 10. and repent himselfe for his seruants when he seeth that their power is gone and there is none shut vp or left The Lord will be a refuge for the oppressed a refuge in times or due time of trouble Mans extremitie is Gods opportunitie Deepest miserie is the fittest season for deliuerance Men often like to Swallowes will be with vs in Summer but leaue vs in winter The Deuill when hee hath drawne his into the bryars will giue them leaue to looke for themselues But God hath euer stood neerest to his when their exigences haue beene greatest The experience of miserie calamitie is made the sure ground of such ioyful hopes as the Lord hath promised Psal 20.1 Exod. 14 22. Dan. 6.22 The greater sorrowes the people of God suffered the more vndoubted experience they had of diuine truth contained in Mosaicall threatnings the more vndoubted the experience of their truth vpon consciousnesse of their owne transgressions the greater motiues they had vpon heartie and sincere repentance to apprehend the stabilitie of his sweetest promises for their good No depression of this people but serued as a countersway to hasten intend or inlarge the measure of their wonted exaltation so long as they rightly weighed all their actions and proceedings in Moses ballances and compared their permanent sorrow for sin past with their wonted delight in their permanent sorrow for sinne past with their wonted delight in transient pleasures Ier. 30.13 14. This that the Lord had stricken Iacob with the wound of an enemie and with a sharpe chastisement for the multitude of his iniquities is propounded as an argument of consolation for because the Lord had killed they must belieue he would make aliue againe The present wounds inflicted contrarie to the rules of politique defence were the best pledges of their future health beyond all hope of State-Surgeons And when Ieremy more admired then distrusted Gods mercies in tendring the purchase of his Kinsmans field to
vnbeliefe For what cannot hee make for our good 2. Cor. 4.6 Rom. 4.17 in what distresse and anguish cannot he reuiue who calleth light out of darkenes and things that are not as if they were if wee will giue glorie to his Woâ—d by resting vpon it Prou. 14.10 The heart knoweth the bitternesse thereof and the stranger shall not meddle with it ioy Thus liuing by faith in times of triall and visitation doth fit and prepare the heart to thankfulnesse when light shall shine from on high and that so much the more as our afflictions haue beene the sharper or of greater continuance Returne O Lord how long Psal 90.13 14. and let it repent thee concerning thy seruants O satisfie vs early with thy mercie Psal 30.11 12. that we may reioyce and be glad all our dayes Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing thou hast put off my sackcloth and girded me with gladnesse Psal 35.28 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee and not be silent O Lord my God I will giue thankes vnto thee for euer If one heale a trifling disease it neither so bindeth the patient nor commendeth the Physician but if one heale vs of some deadly incurable maladie O wee say then wee could neuer haue met with such a Physician not the like in the world againe Thou broughtest vs into the net Psal 66.11 12 13. thou laidst affliction vpon our loines thou hast caused men to ride ouer our heads we went through fire and through water but thou broughtest vs out into a wealthy place I will goe into thy house with burnt Offerings I will pay thee my vowes It will be obiected Preuention of Obiection That in affliction faith is weake and corruption stirring That in affliction faith seemeth to be most weake and corruption most stirring First And true it is that many doubtfull thoughts ascend into Christians hearts partly because they know not that they are allowed to liue by faith in an afflicted state partly because they iudge amisse of their afflictions taking them as arguments of wrath and displeasure rather then trials of faith and chastisements of peace As children through want of wisdome are afraid of bug-beares so the errour of our minde raiseth great feare and doubt of that which cannot hurt vs peraduenture might greatly comfort vs if rightly vnderstood This mistaking must be corrected by fâ—ith and spirituall wisdome Secondly True it is alâ—o we sometime feele more stirring of corruption in time of trouble for a while then we felt before but as Physicke then expelleth hurtfull humours when it worketh vpon them and maketh vs complaine as feeling them more then when they were let alone so doth Gods Physicke to the soule euen while it is driuing out corruption it makes vs feele and complaine of it more then euer The like may be said of faith which we feele weaker during the timâ— of triall But striking the Torch which for the presâ—nt seemeth to put it out maketh it blaze Physiâ—ke which for the time weakens doth tend to strengthen the bodie shaking the Tree which seemeth to loose the roots fasteneth them deeper and the same may be said in this case Thirdly In afflictions faith is tried the sweetnesse of it is not so much felt as it is latent which makes vs thâ—nke it to bee brought exceeding low The strength of the bodie is put forth in conflâ—cts and burthens felt when wee walke at ease and lâ—bretie A man may shew most strength in wrestling when to his owne feeling he discerneth most weaknesse and so it is in faith when the sense is lest the power may bee greatest There is an afflicted strength which cannot bee felt great though it be so in truth and there is an afflicted faith which is not discerned to be of that force of which indeed it is But strength afflicted and strength decayed faith afflicted and faith ouer-whelmed are much different Fourthly If want of spirituall refreshings doth trouble and breed scruple in vs we must remember that Physicke purgatiue and restoratiue must not bee tâ—ken at one and the same time To admit of sorrowes but on condition that spirituall consolation should drowne the feeling thereof is as it were to wish sufferings without suffering When God ministreth for the preseruation or recouerie of spirituall health it is the office of faith to receiue the potion and further the kindly working of it which cannot bee done vnlesse it giue way vnto yea stirre vp godly sorrow and wrestle painfully to driue out such corruptions as God would haue remooued by them During battell the Souldier must exercise his skill valour and strength in repelling subduing and pursuing the enemie his refreshing comes when the fight is ended and the spoile diuided In the dayes of affliction faith is conflicting with doubts allurements corruptions which shew themselues if wee doe not feele those sweet comforts of the spirit that our soules desire let vs waite with patience till the victorie be obtained And if we would stirre vp our faith to belieue and depend vpon God in the dayes of great tribulations Helps to stirre vp faith in deepe afflictions when all meanes faile when all meanes of helpe faile we must First Lay open our sorrowes before the LORD and powre out our complaint into his bosome Lord how am I beset with miseries Psal 55.2 How doe my sorrowes increase daily I am the man that haue seene affliction by the rod of thine anger Lam. 3.1 2. Thou hast brought mee into darknesse but not into light My heart fainteth my strength faileth my skinne is made old Psal 38.10 Psal 22.15 Lam. 3.7 my sight waxâ—th dimme and all my bones are out of ioynt Thou hast hedged me about that I cannot get out and made my chaine heauy My louers and my friends stand aloofe from my stroke and my neighbours stand afarre off Psal 36.11 Psal 88.8 Psal 3.1 But they that seeke my hurt doe multiply they speake mischieuous things and imagine deceit all the day long I am the reproach of men the despised of the people Psal 35.20 Psal 22.6 Psal 35.11 the song of the Drunkards False witnesses are risen vp against me who lay to my charge things I neuer knew and teare mee in pieces with their continuall slanders In mine aduersitie they reioyce they gather themselus together against me Psal 41.7 8 6. thâ—y reuile without ceasing they open their mouthes wide against me Psal 42.10 Psal 83.14 Psal 10.1 and spare not to blaspheme thy Name As with a sword in my bones mine enemies reproach me while they say daily vnto me where is thy God Lord all this is come vpon me and yet thou standest afarre off and hidest thy selfe from my trouble Lam. 3.44 I cry vnto thee but thou hearest not thou couerest thy selfe with a cloud that my prayers should not ascend Secondly Confesse our sinnes with hatred and godly sorrow The
all Verse 14. And I will satiâ—te the soule of the priests with fatnesse and my people shall be satisfied with goodnesse saith the Lord. Ezek 34 25 26. 27. I will make with thâ—m a couenant of peace and will cause the euill beast to cease out of the Lâ—nd and thâ—y shall dwell saf ly in the wildernesse and sleepâ— in the woods And I will mâ—ke them and the places round about my hill a blessing and I will cause the showre to come downe in his season there shall be showres of blessing And the tree of the field shall yeeld her fruite and the earth shall yeelâ— her increase and they shalâ— be safe in their land and shall know that I am the Lord I will call for corne and encrease it Ezek. 36.29 30 and 34 29. and lay no famine vpon you And I will â—ultiply the fruite of the tree and the incrâ—ase of the field that y e shall no more â—eceiue reproch of famine among the hâ—athen I will eu n â— t oth thee vnto me in faithfulnesse Hos 2.20 21 22. and thou shalt know the Lord. And it shall come to passe in that day I will â—eare saith the Lord I will heare the heauens and â—â—ey shall hearâ— the earth and the earth shall heare the â—â—rne and the wine the oyle Now seeing the Lord hath by promise and couenant againe and againe repeated for our confirmation assuâ—ed vs of all needfull blessings it is our duty by faith to make these ptomises our owne and rest quietly vpon his word to finde reliefe at such time and in such measure as he knowes to be expedient and may be for our good Thirdly And this wee may the rather be incouraged vnto considering the relation which is betwixt God and vs for he is our faithfull creatour wee the worke of his hands hee is our Sheepheard wee the flocke of his pasture he is our Father wee his children Let them that suffer according to the will of God 1. Pet. 4.19 commit the keeping of their soules to him in well-doing as vnto a faithfull Creatour 1. Pet. 5.7 Psal 23.1 Cast all your care vpon him for he he careth for you The Lord is my sheepheard I shall not want As a sheepheard seeketh out his flocke in the day that he is among his sheepe that are scattered Ezek. 34.12 13. so will I seeke out my sheepe and will deliuer them out of all places where they haue beene scattared in the cloudy and darke day And I will bring them out from the people and gather them from the countries Verse 14. and will bring them to their owne land and feede them vpon the mountaines of Israel by the riuers and in all the inhabited places of the country I will feede them in a good pasture and vpon the high mountaines of Israel shall their fold be there shall they lye in a good fold and in a fat pasture shall the feed vpon the mountaines of Israel Mat. 6.31.32 Take no thought saying What shall we eate or what shall we drinke or wherewith shall we be clothed for your heauenly Father knoweth that yee haue need of all these things God is the great Father of the family who prouideth all things necessarie for them that bee vnder his gouernment Psal 104 27. Psal 145.15 16 The eyes of all waite vpon thee and thou giuest them their meate in due season Thou openest thine hand and satisfiest the desire of euery liuing thing Psal 146.9 Iob 38.41 Mat. 6.26 Hee giueth to the beast his food and to the young rauens which crie It is his propertie who is the cheife good to communicate his blessings vnto his creatures much more to compasse them with mercie that depend vpon him Hee hath put this naturall affection into Parents nay into bruite beasts to tender their young ones and shall not hee much more prouide for them that crie vnto him day and night for reliefe and succour The Lords portion is his people Deut. 32.9 Ier. 10.16 51.19 Iacob is the lot of his inheritance and God is the portion of his people Hee hath chosen them and they haue giuen themselues to him they relie vpon him and he hath vndertaken to make plentifull prouision for them Lam. 3.24 The Lord is my portion saith my soule therefore will I hope in him The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup thou maintainest my lot Psal 16.5 6. The lines are fallen vnto me in a pleasant places yea I haue a goodly heritage The Lord by his speciall prouidence will make that prosperous vnto the righteous which they possesse be it little or much There is nothing better for a man then Eccles 2.24 that he should eate and drinke and that hee should make his soule enioy good in his labour This also I saw and it was from the hand of God And this gift the Lord freely giues to the man whom he doth approue Verse 26. To the man that is good in his sight God giueth wisdome and knowledge and Ioy to wit together vse earthly blessings with delight comfort The reuenues of the righteous are small many times but their state is comfortable Psal 37.16 for the little that the righteous man hath is better then much riches of many and mightie wicked ones who flow in wealth and excell in power Prou. 15.16 17 17.1 Better is a litle with the feare of the Lord then great treasure and trouble therewith Better is a dinner of herbs where loue is then a stalled Oxe and hatred therewith God giueth his beloued sleepe Psal 127.2 Prou. 10.22 And it is the blessing of God which maketh rich and he addeth no sorrow with it Fourthly The patient expâ—ctation of the Saints hath confirmed this that God will not bee wanting to his children in things of this life so farre as may bee for their spirituall welfare Psal 37.25 26. I haue beene young and now am old yet haue I not seene the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread Hee is euer mercifull and lendeth and his seed is blessed The children of the needie shall bee succoured in due season for God who knoweth their wants is faithfull to pe forme promise The acts of faith in respect of these promises The acts of faith in respect of these promises and blessings are First it preserueth from the vse of all vnlawfull means knowing that nothing can prosper which God approues not Esay 30.7 The Egyptians shall helpe in vaine and to no purpose therefore haue I cryed concerning this Their strength is to sit still Hosea 5.13 14. When Ephraim saw his sicknesse and Iudah saw his wound then went Ephraim to the Assyrian and sent to King Ioreb yet could he not heale you noâ— cure you of your wound If a man be soundly perswaded that the blessing of God is all in all hee will ply that fare
first and not vndertake any thing till hee see God witnessing vnto him by his Spirit that hee will be with him to blesse him which hee cannot hope for if the meanes vsed to compasse and secure any blessing or good thing be indirect and sinfull Nay to hope for blessed and good successe in any euil course is palpable and grosse Idolatry what is it but really to acknowledge the Deuill whose direction thou followest for aduantage to be the Gouernour of the world and the disposer of earthly things then which nothing is more opposite to liuely faith Faith speaketh on this wise Prou. 16.8 Better is a little wrth righteousnesse then great reuenues without right more comforâ—able in respect of inward peace the present vse of this life and continuance which maketh the Belieuer consult what is iust not what is gainfull or profitable what may be compassed by honest courses not what may be gained by fraud deceit coozenage or other carnall dealing Againe faith taketh direction of God in his Word in all businesses being assured that his counsell onely is firme and stable and that course prosperous which is consonant to his reuealed will Prou. 19.21 Psal 33.10 There are many deuices in a mans heart neuerthelesse the counsell of the Lord that shall stand The Lord bringeth the counsell of the Heathen to naught he maketh the deuices of the people of none effect The counseâ—l of the Lord standeth for euer the thoughts of his heart to all generations Carnall policies are disappointed and counsels broken but the direction of the Lord it shall prosper Secondly Faith is painfull prouident and frugall though not distrustfull pinching or niggardly It shakes off idlenesse obserues Gods prouidence takes the opportunitie husbands thriftily what he bestoweth and ordereth all affaires with discretion Hee that rests most confident vpon Gods blessing for all good things of this life will be most diligent to seeke them by lawfull means and carefull to preserue what the bountifull hand of God shall minister vnto him He that is silent expecting Gods helpe when meanes faile cannot sit still when meanes be at hand nor lauish indiscreetly when his cup runneth ouer Labour and prouidence be imposed of God wherevnto faith doth as freely submit it selfe euen when Gods blessings doe slow in abundantly as it doth heartily wish and expect supply from God in the time of need Thirdly It maketh inquiry into the heart turneth fâ—om euill and seeketh the face of God earnestly Confiâ—ence in God breeds suspition of our selues lest any sinne should habour secretly in our bosome or corruption get â—ead to hinder prosperitie specially if God blesse vs not â—câ—ording to promise the first worke of faith is to ransicke and fanne the soule narrowly to find out and remoue whatsoeuer doth offend I thought on my wayes Psal 119.59 Verse 67. and turned my feet vnto thy testimonies Before I was afflicted I went astray but now I haue kept thy word Iob 22.21 22 23. The counsell of Elephaz to Iob was good if he had rightly applied it Acquaint now thy selfe with him and be at peace thereby good shall come vnto thee Receiue I pray thee the law from his mouth and lay vp his words in thine heart If thou returne to the Almightie thou shalt bee built vp thou shalt put away iniquity farre from thy Tabernacles This sound aduice faith digesteth and with much seriousnesse doth early with the whole heart seeke the Lord exercise it selfe in the worship of God laboureth the reformation of what is amisse and composeth it selfe wholy to the prescript â—ule of his Word By faith wee know Iames 4.8.10 God will draw nigh to vs if wee draw nigh to him he will lift vs vp if we humble our selues in his sight and if God lift vs vp it shall goe well if hee be with vs we shall want nothing which may be for our good This is the way of faith which cleaueth vnto the Lord and seeketh the accomplishment of his promises as God hath promised to fulfill them Fourthly It stirreth vp to pray without distrustfull fruitlesse excessiue care It committeth the cause vnto God Iob 5.8 8.5 1. Chron. 4.10 and makes supplication to the Almightie Oh that thou wouldest blesse me indeed and inlarge my coast and that thy hand might be with me and that thou wouldest keepe me from euill that it may not grieue me If God will be with me Gen. 28.20 21. and will keepe me in this way that I goe and will giue me bread to eate and raiment to put on So that I come againe to my Fathers house in peace then shall the Lord be my God It is the exhortation of Paul Be carefull for nothing Phil. 4.6 but in euery thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiuing let your request be made knowne vnto God Now faith turneth precepts into prayers and maketh request according to the will of God What God requires that faith petitioneth for and in such manner Fiftly It seeth riches in God submitteth to his wisedome resteth in his loue and so maintaineth a Christian in some measure of contentment By faith we so embrace the Lord as that in him wee seeke and see whatsoeuer is necâ—ssary to saluation and possesse him as the portion of ouâ— lot and inheritance who will keepe backe nothing from vâ— but what is hurtfull and pernicious It leaneth vpon the euerlasting prouidence of God and promiseth present succour and supply fâ—om him as in wisedome hee knoweth best and of grace hâ—th promised Psal 16.8 Psal 73 23. I haue sâ—t the Lord alwayes before me that is I constantly leane vpon the aide of God and am fastened to his prouidence being confident that when necessitie doth vrge hee will be aâ— hand to sustaine my soule to minister vnto my necessitiâ— powerfully to assist and comfort Sixtly In prosperitie it keepes the heart in an holy temper and disposition scil in humilitie and meâ—knesse free from carnall confidence and pride and in tendernesse and compassion towards them that be in misery specially the Church if she be in heauinâ—sse For the blessings of God embracâ—d by faith set an impression vpon the soule answerâ—ble to those properties in him from whence they flow What hee giues in grace doth worke the heart to humilitie and tender commiseration Psal 62.11 Faith hath learned that power is oâ— God and that all his gifts are freely bestowed of mercie without desert Psal 86.2 but mercie receiued doth both humble and mollifie the heart The godly man hauing obtained mercie and grace from God is againe holy pious kinâ— and mercifull to others It is the commandement of God Deut. â—5 7 Thou shalt not make strong thy heart nor shut vp the bowels of compassion from thy needie brother But euermore the frame of a belieuing heart is corresponâ—ent to the will and pleasure of God for faith sets the stampe and Image of God vpon the soule Moreouer
it disposeth the heart to thankfulnes and obedience for it disposeth spirituall emptinesse which giueth a sweet râ—lâ—â—â—h to the meâ—cieâ— of God and excluding all boasting in oâ—r selues stirreth vp to glory in the Lord and willingly tâ— deuote our selues vnto his seruice from whom we hauâ— receiued whatsoeuer we enioy Psal 116.12 13. What shall I render to the Lord for all his mercies towards me I will take the cup of saluation and call vpon thâ— Name of the Lord. Men looke for thankes for a small kindnesse for a token a dinner if they write but a letter speake a word take a iourney in our behalfe Faith reades the name of God in all his mercies and seriously calleth them to remembrance what then can it doe lesse then magnifie the Name of God for all his goodnesse The mercies of God to a belieuing heart are as manure to sound and good soyle which makes it more fertile Satan himselfe will confesse that God is specially to bee serued in the dayes of prosperitie Iob 1.9 10. for when God asked him Hast thou considered my seruant Iob a iust man c. He replieth Doth Iob feare God for naught Hast thou not made an hedge about him And faith doth both remember man of his dutie and perswade him to bee so much the more seruiceable and obedient as the mercies of God are powred vpon him more plentifully I will walke before the Lord in the land of the liuing Psal 116.9 When the Churches had râ—st throughout all Iudea and Galilee and Samaria they were edified Acts 9.31 and walking in the feare of the Lord and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost were multiplied Seuenthly It prayeth as earnestly for the sanctification of prosperitie and Gods blessing vpon the meanes as for the meanes themselues if they were wanting The more we prosper the more earnest be the prayers of faith For of our selues wee haue no power to weeld a good estate well nor abilitie to preserue and keepe it An high estate is subiect to many stormes and tempests in greatest ease wee lie open to most temptations In the hot Summer men quickly catch cold and if we pray not earnestly when we prosper in the world we shall coole in grace Earthly blessings bee so fraile and wee of our selues so weake that the more we haue the more we stand in need of Gods gratious assistance and support Psal 33.16 The Creatures themselues haue no power to helpe can profit nothing vnlesse God put forth his hand to blesse them for our vse This makes that the requests of faith bee not formall and perfunctorie but effectuall feruent arising from a true consideration of the weaknesse and impotencie of the creature to sustaine and vphold vs. And thus to liue by faith in the abundance of all things makes way for patience contentednesse sound peace in the depth of miserie when we be left naked and destitute of all humane aide For if when we enioy meanes we leane not vpon them but vpon the Lord when they are taken away wee shall not fall our stay remaining Eightly It makes heauenly minded in the vse and possession of a prospeâ—ous estate As it receiueth all earthly blessings from God as pledges of his speciall loue and part of their childes portion so it windeth and pulleth vp the soule to God againe Looke what loue-tokens are to linke the hearts of wel-willers and bring them together or to preserue renew and increase affection amongst friends such force haue the good things of this life to lift vp the belieuing heart to commune with the Lord. And sure prosperitie is the fittest season for heauenly contemplation the lesse trouble lieth vpon our state the more libertie we haue with freedom to thinke vpon such things as concerne our eteâ—nall inheritance Besides faith cannot sauour earthly blessings vnlesse it taste his loue and feed vpon his goodnesse in them If being inuited to a Noblemans table hee be pleased to carue a bit vpon our Trenchâ—r that is better then all the feast The loue of God giuing vs earthly things to enioy is that which giueth them the best relish And if we taste the sweetnesse of his louing kindnesse in these things wee cannot but desire and long to bee refreshed with fuller communion with him Ninthly Faith breeds godly iealousie and suspition lest the heart should bee drawne away wiâ—h the pleasing delights of things transitorie For by grace we are made conscious of our owne weaknesse and of the snare that iâ— in euâ—ry creature to take and intangle vs. Prosperitie is pleasing but dangerous Children quickly surfet on sweet mâ—ats Coezening compâ—nions giue flattering speeches Long peace begets idlâ—nesse Pouertie is more fertile of men plentie of riot nicenesse ease and such like Blustering windes cannot pull the cloake from the traueller who casts it off in the heate of the Sunne Wee haue examples of many great worthies who haue caught much hurt in prosperitie Rest hath effeminated many Captaines who could neuer be crushed or ouercome with the â—errours of warre Soft sands swallow more ships then hard rockes split asunder This makes the waking belieuer circumspect to examine his heart and watch ouer it how he performes holy duties how hee entertaines holy thoughts how his affections moue towards that which is aboue lest he should miscarrie vpon the sands Tenthly It mindeh vs of our change euen when our mountaine seemeth strongest Iob 3.25 26. The thing that I greatly feared saith Iob is come vpon me and that which I was afraid of is come vnto mee I was not in safetie neither had I rest neither had I quiet I alwayes thought vpon my change and looked for an alteration of mine estate The longest day hath night at length entring yea there is no winde which may not blow raine if God be so pleased Estates which haue the longest periods of prosperity bee at length exercised with afflictions and there is no condition so sure and peaceable but may turne tempestuous on the sudden should not God bee more gratious This being in it selfe apparant and confirmed by infinite examples cannot bee hid from the piercing eye of faith which is spiritually wise to discerne aforehand what euents we are subiect vnto in this vale of teares Nature by instinct giueth vnto vnreasonable Creaâ—ures a facultie which maketh them afore-hand apprehensiue of that which is readie to ensue The wisdome which is from aboue mâ—keth the Lords châ—ldren sensible in like kinde that as Iob so they in their gâ—eatest calme foresee how â—ods hand may change for their exercise Nor doâ—h faith only foreâ—ee danger but prepare for it Prou. 22.3 27.12 The wise man seeth the plague and hideth himselfe The belieuer hath learned by due consideration how wanting hee is in wisdome and weake in stâ—ength to stand when God trieth anâ— so renouncing his wit and strength hee flieth vnto God and holdeth him as he who hath beene is and must bee for euer
take the stonie heart out of their flesh and will giue them an heart of flesh I will saue them out of their dwelling places Ezek. 37.23.24 whâ—rein they haue sinned and will cleanse them so shall they bee my people and I will be their God And Dauid my seruant shall be king ouer them and they shall all haue one sheepheard they shall also walke in my iudgements and obâ—erue my statutes and doe them In that day sing yee vnto her A vineyard of red wine I the Lord doe keepe it and will water it every moment lest any hurt it I will keepe it night and day Isay 27.2.3 Surely shall one say In the Lord haue I righteousnes and strength Isay 45.24 Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God They shall still bring forth fruite in old age Psal 92.13.14 Rom. 6.14 they shall bee fat and flâ—urishing Sinne shall not haue dominion oueâ— you Now we are dâ—liu red fro the law that being dead wherein we were held Rom. 7.6 that we should serue in newnâ—s of Spirit and not in oldnes of the letter I can doe all things through Christ which strengtheneth me Phil. 4 13. The Christians obedience is imperfect but pleasing Pro. 12.22 Psâ—l 147.11 Psal 149.4 The obedience of the faithfull which through the power of grace they performe is weake imperfect but pleasing acceptable vnto God The Lord taketh pleasure in them that feare him in those that hope in his mercy The Lord taketh pleasure in his people he will beautifie the meeke with saluation In euery nation he that feareth God and worketh righteousnesse is accepted of him The Lord by Moses did often times tell his people that they offering vp their sacrifices Act. 10.35 such as he commanded they should be accepted which is often repeated by the pâ—ophets Leu. 1.3.4 and 22.21 and 23.11 Thou shalt makâ— a plate of pure gold and graue vpon it like the engrauings of a sâ—gnet Holines to the Lord and it shall be vpon Aarons forehead that Aaron may beare the iniquity of the holy things which the children of Israel shal hallow in all their holy gifts Exod. 28.36.38 and it shall be alwayes vpon his forehead that they may bee accepted before the Lord. Esay 60.7 All the flockes of Kedar shall be gathered together the Rams of Nebaioth shall minister vnto thee they shal come vp with acceptance on mine altar The Priest shall make you burnt offerings vpon the alter and your peace offerings Ezek. 43.27 20 40 41. and I will accept you saith thâ— Lord God Then shall the offerings of Iudah and Ierusaleâ— be pleasant vnto the Lord as in the dayes of old and as in former yeares Mal. 3.4 Then shalt thou be pleased with the sacrifices of righteousnes with burnt offering and whole burnt offering Psal 51.19 Hereunto may be referred the prayer of the prophet Let the words of my mouth and the meditation oâ— my heart be acceptable in thy sight O Lord my strength Psal 19.14 and my râ—deemer Accept I beseech thee the freewill offerings of my mouth O Lord and teach mee thy Iudgemâ—ntâ— Psal 119.108 Deut. 33.11 There bee many other testimonies to the same purpose I b seech you therefore brethren by the mercies of Goâ— that yee present your bodies a liuing sacrifice holy acceptable vnto God Rom. 12.1 Phil. 4.18 I am full hauing receiued of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you an odour of a sweete smell a sacrifice acceptable wel-pleasing to God But to doe good and to communicate forget not for with such sacrifices God is well pleased Yee also Heb. 13.16 1. Pet. 2.5 as liuely stones are built vp a spirituall house an holy Preisthood to offer vp spirituall sacrifice acceptable to God by Iesus Christ Children obey your parents in all things Col. 8.20 Heb. 11.5 for this is well pleasing Before his translation Enoch had receiued this testimonie that he pleased God And this faith is most necessarie to the leading of a Christian life Faith is necessary to the leading of a Christian life scil to adhere and sticke fast vnto the commandements rest vpon God for abilitie to do what he requireth and that he will accept what sincere and vnfained seruice though weake and imperfect is tendered vnto his Highnesse For the word of grace which commandeth to belieue the free mercie of the Lord to the pardoning of sinne Tit. 2.11.12 teacheth vs to denie vngodlinesse and worldly lust and to liue godly iustly and soberly in this present euil world Such as giue vp their names to Christ must not looke to bee lawlesse but they come to take a yoâ—ke vpon them Math. 11.28.29 Ioh. 13.34 and stand obliged to fulfill the law of Christ called the new Commaundement Want of belieuing the precepts is the cause why many doe still continue in the practise of diuers things inconuenient and suffer inordinate passions to hold them vnder Ignorance or carelesnesse in this point is the cause why some of the better sort of people are off and on now forward then backward scarce setled or stayed at any time not knowing how to set vpon the practice of repentance how to begin or to proceed therein Whereas this faith much auaileth to the furthering of the deare Children of God in a godly course the shâ—ning of euill and the practice of holinesse True faith is an obsequious confidence which carrieth a man whither soeuer he shâ—ll see the Lord to gâ—e before him Heb. 11.5.7.8.9.10 c. By faith Hâ—noch walked with God Noah builded an Arke Abraham offered vp his sâ—nne Isaac Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaohs daughter Our present faith or trust in God is but commensurable to our fideliâ—ie in his Commaâ—ndements ere we can make a faithfull plea for mercie Gods will neglected must bee executed either in act if the obâ—ect be present and may be prosecuted or in sincere and constant resolution if abilities and opportunities required to execution of what we resolue vpon be altogether wanting or our endeauours vpon ineuitable occasions hindred Gal. 5.6 Faith worketh by loue which constraineth men to doe the will of God and submit themselues to his holy Commandements The strength of faith to it seuerall obiects is vniforme that assurance of forgiuenesse cannot be greater then care of obedience The very consciousnesse of any one sin wherevnto we haue beene indulgent will be of like force to withdraw our assent from Gods mercy as the delight or pleasure of that sensuall obiect was to cause vs to transgresse any part of his wil reuealed The same strength beautie had to allure vnto adulterie will that foule sinne vnrepented of haue to diuorce our soules from Christ Nor can wee faile in practice of this or other Commandement without a precedent defect of that faith which onely
to keep the righteous iudgements of the Lord. Psal 119.106 Nehem. 10.29 2. Kings 23.3 Psal 119.8 Verse 36. I haue sworne and I wilâ— pâ—rforme it that I will keep thy righteous iudgements But they came not to this couenant oath as trusting in their own strength but in assurance of diuine assistance as the Prophet prayeth I will keâ—pe thy statutâ—s O forsake mee not vtterly Incline my heart vnto thy testimonies and not to couetousnesse Order my steps in thy word and let not any iniquitie haue dominion ouer me Verse 133. Verse 135. Make thy face to shine vpon thy seruant and teach me thy statutes God will perfect the sauing worke which he hath begunne in any of his children for the gifts that flow from his eternall and free grace are without repentance God who calleth vs according to his purpose is faithfull who will also confirme vs vnâ—o the end 1. Cor. 1.8 9. Phil. â— 6 1 Thes 5.24 Gal 2.20 Phil. 4 13. that we may be blamelesse in the day of the Lord Iesus Châ—ist Paul saith he liued by faith in the Sonne of God by whom he was strengthened with abilitie to performe whatsoeuer was required of him Notwithstanding all the hope of helpe that hee had yet hee complaineth of the rebellion of his flesh Rom. 7.19 which did mâ—ghtily resist the Spirit in him But still he was confident in the promise of God that he should be deliuered from euery euil work 2. Tim. 4.18 preserued vnto the heauenly kingdome Now in all this Paul had no peculiar prerogatiue aboue other Christians but what he expected from God they mâ—y all hope fâ—r Acts of faith touching obedience requiquirâ—d The acts of faiâ—h touching that obedience which we owe vnto God in Christ are these or the like First Iâ— makâ—s a man wise to discerne what is lawfull good and seasonable both in respect of the worke the meanes and circumstances of it Dauid saith hee was wiser then his Enemies Psal 119.97 9 99. then his Teachers then the Ancient he â—â—nderâ— the cause thereof from the work of his faith Psal 119.24 for thy testimonies are euer with me they are my meditation the men of my counsel with whom I adâ—ise Secondly It câ—rbes and bridles inordinate passions and ouercomes â—ll impediments temptations difficulties and allurements to the contrarie 1. Iohn 5.4 This is the victorie whereby we ouercome the world euen our faith For faith beâ—ng wel-rooted possessing the heart and hauing its force vnited by close reposall therein commanâ—s euery delight affection or pleasure of our soules and breakes the violence of euery inclination contrarie to such motion as it suggests seeing no hopes can be equall to the reward which it proposeth to the constant and resolute no feares comparâ—ble to the terrors which it represents to the neglâ—gent or slothfull followers of such courses as it presâ—râ—bes What Phil. 3.8 that faith sets an inestimable price vpon the pearle of the Gospell accounting all other things as drosse anâ— dung in comparison which causeth a free and aduised renouncing of all interest in the world the flesh Math. 13.44 â—nd all their appurtenances for assurance of it with as great willingnesse as good husbands forsâ—ke base tenements and hard-rented leases to compasse some goodly royalty and large possessions offered them more then halfe for nothing Againe faith fighteth against temptations and intiâ—ements vnto sinne by the power of Christ which cannot be vanquished Satan and the world are too strong for vs standing in our owne might but by the grace of God leâ—ning vpon his power wee remaine inuincible The strength of nature is corrupt feeble and defiled through sinne and therefore the truth which it taketh hold off it hath not effectually But faith hath ioyned with it the inspiration of God and the power of the holy Ghost and therefore it taketh hold of the truth effâ—ctually Wherefore this difference is not in the truth it â—elfe but in the meane and instrument whereby wee embrace it Hereof it commeth thâ—t by fâ—ith we are changâ—d but in the other case we remaine the selfe-same that wee were before A cleare testimonie of this wee h ue in thâ— Gospell Chrâ—st set forth to the young-man what he should doe to obtâ—ine saluation but when hee heard hee was not pâ—rswadâ—d to obey but went away sorrowfuâ—l Math. 19.22 Contrariwise Matthew Math. 9.9 so soone as he was called embraced the same with so great faith that hâ—e left his money and Customer-ship and stâ—aight-way followed Christ Luke 19.8 And Zacheus when hee had heard of the Lord that hee would turne in vnto him hee not only receiued him into his house with a glad heart but also offered immediately to distribute halfe his goods to the poore and to restore foure-fold if he had defrauded any man Indeed pâ—ssions are not so bridled nor corruptions so killed that they doe not stirre and resist the worke of faith But the force and power of them is so farre subdued that they shall not raigne or hale vs ordinarily to that which is euill Whatsoeuer inordinâ—tenesse faith can espie it doth presently condemne before the throne of grace and endeauour the killing of it by the power and efficacie of Christs death which it doth happily effâ—ct in measure and by degrees Hast thou then beene long kept vnder of some violent passion strong corruption or customarie vice against which thou hast resolued and resolued but not preuailed or gotten victorie Get thee to Christ and by faith thou shalt draw vertue from him to cure thy infirmities Die to thy selfe renounce the broken reed of thine owne free-will which hath so often deceiued thee and put all thy trust in the grace of Christ and it will crucifie the old man and giue him his deaths wound Bee weake in thy selfe and strong in the Lord and through faith thou shalt be more then conquerour Digge vp the fallow ground of thy heart that the word of the Kingdome may take deeper root in it raise thy soule to an holy admiration of the promises of life stirre vp thy selfe to cleaue and adhere firmely to the grace of God as faith increaseth the power of corruption will languish and decrease Admirable is the efficacie of faith well planted in the heart it casteth downe strong holds and brings euery imagination into sâ—biection Thirdly It inableth to obey for it purifieth the heart seasoneth euery facultie of soule reasonable and sensuall qualifieth and stâ—engtheneth our naturall inclinations to good and altereth the taste of euery appetite 2. Pet. 1.4 Ephes 3.17 1. Iohn 4.4 By faith wee are partakers of the diuine nature by faith Christ dwelleth in our hearts by faith we receiue the Spirit of promise who is greater then he that is in the world No maruell then if that bee sweet and delightfull to the belieuing heart which is tedious and irkesome to the vnregenerate How came Dauid
that I can offer Secondly He must call vpon his soule by many powerfull and strong perswasions to awake to the worke of God with liuelinesse Arise O my soule why sleepest thou stirre vp thy selfe with readinesse to obey the charge of God in the duties of his woâ—ship and the workes of Mercie and Iustice withstand sinne subdue corruptions fight manfully against the temptations of Satan and the allurements of the world Sticke fast vnto the testimonies of the Lord and lay his iudgements before thee For the testimonies of the Lord are wonderfull Psal 119.129 Verse 9. Verse 138. his iudgements good righteous and very faithfull his word is very pure and his law is the truth The seruice of God is perfect freedome he walketh at libertie who runneth on in obedience As tâ—y loue to the law is such shall thy life be nothing is hard to a willing minde Want of affection to the word of truth makes the duties commanded to seeme irkesome and tedious Loue the Commandements aboue gold and obedience will be as pleasant as gaine to the couetous Looke vpon the Saints who haue gone before they endured imprisonment losse of libertie the spoiling of goods hazard of life with ioy looking vnto the eternall and incomprehensible recompence of reward Thou art not called to suffer but to obey at least not to suffer such grieuous torments as they did why doest thou then delay start aside or goe forth vnwillingly Wouldest thou raigne with them and not labour with them receiue the price and not runne the race diuide the spoile and not fight the battell In the affaires of this life wee loue to excell and out-goe our fellowes as to bee first vp and about our worke to exceed in fauour riches honour wisdome and in matters of Religion to be dead and lumpish is it not abhominable Obedience is no dull seruice no dead piece of worke but the way to blessednesse and the crowne of glory Esay 45.19 The Lord hath not said Seeke me in vaine The reward of obedience is certaine though our wo kes deserue nothing The Merchant vndertakes dangerous aduentures to raise his estate inrich himselfe But what is the gold of India to the ioyes of Heâ—uen a fading possession to an eternall weight of glory striue to enter and goe forward in the straiteway that leadeth vnto life Arise why tarriest thou forget not the high price of thy calling but contend forward towards the marke Heauen is worth all thy labour We are glad to be entertained of them who haue a name to be liberall bountifull to their attendants who is to be compared to the Lord our God herein He is most able 1. Cor. 2.9 and best willing to preferre his seruants Eye hath not seene eare hath not heard it exceeds all humane capacitie to conceiue what surpassing glorie and ioy the Lord hath prepared for them that loue him Thirdly He must pray to the Lord that he would reuiue and quicken him Teach me to doe thy will Psal 143.10 for thou art my God thy Spirit is good lead me into the land of vprightnesse My desire is to doe thy good pleasure Cant. 1.4 but of my selfe I haue no abilitie thereunto Draw mee and I will runne after thee Psal 119.33 34 35. Verse 135. Teach me the way of thy statutes and I will keepe it vnto the end Giue me vnderstanding and I shall keâ—pe thy law yea I shall obserue it with my whole heart Lord thou hast commanded mee to keepe thy testimonies Psal 119.36 giue mee I pray thee to doe what thou requirest Incline my heart to thy statutes and not to couetousnes Fourthly Psal 119.93 Hee must renew his resolution to walke with God trusting in his grace I will neuer forget thy precepts for with them thou hast quickened me I haue fully purposed to keepe and cleaue vnto thy Commandements for they are they ioy of my heart But Lord I leane not vpon mine owne strength but vpon thy grace Psal 119.57.112 Psal 119.133 who gâ—ueth both to will and to doe Thou art my portion O Lord I haue said that I will keepe thy words Order my steps in thy word and let not any iniquitie haue dominion ouer mee CHAP. X. What it is to liue by faith in the duties of our vocation Christians are allowed to liue by faith in the duties of their vocation IT is the ordinance of God that men should labour in some honest vocation for their priuate maintenance and the common good that is the benefit and good estate of mankind And for encouragement he hath promised to protect and blesse them that keepe themselues within the limits and doe the workes of their calling with diligence The texts of Scripture are plaine for both Gen. 2.15 The Lord God tooke the man Gen. 3.19 and put him into the garden of Eden to dresse it and to keepe it In thâ— sweate of thy face shalt thou eate bread till thou returne vnto the ground Eph. 4.28 Let him that stole steale no more but rather let him labour working with his hands the thing that is good that he may haue to giue to him that needâ—th 1. Cor. 7.20 Let euery man abide in the same calling wherein he was called study to be quiet and to doe your owne businesse and to worke with your one hands as we commaunded you that yee may walke honestly toward them that are without 1. Thess 4.11.12 2. Thess 3.10.11 12. Pro. 10 4. and 12.27 For euen when wee were with you this wee commaunded you that if any man would not worke neither should he eate The hand of the diligent maketh rich The substance of a diligent man is prâ—tious Prou. 13.11 Prou. 12.24 Hee that gathereth by labour shall encrease The hand of the diligent shall beare rule Seest thou a man diligent in his businesse hee shall stand before Kings Prou. 22.29 Psal 91.11 hee shall not stand before meane men Heâ— shall giue his Angels charge ouer thee to keepe thee in all thy wayes Now seeing God hath commaâ—nded vs to labour in a calling prescribed the bonds of our calling and promised his protection and blessing to our honesâ— endeauours it cannot bee questioned whether wee be allowed to liue by faith in the duties of our calling Fo the exercise of faith is as large as the word whereby it is guided and moderated that it neither exceed nor come hort Whe e a worke is commanded faith puts forth â—â—elâ—e in actioâ— where a promise is made it trusteth elâ—eth and wâ—iteth for accomplishment In euery honest state and cond tion of life there is vse of faith in both respects For laboâ—r is commanded and promise of blessing is made to them that worke according to the will and pleasure of God Moreouer God is hereby much glorified that wee commit our selues wholly vnto him labouring as he hath appointed and depending vpon his grace for good successe It
is necessarie wee should liue by faith It s necessary to liue by faith in the duties of our vocation to preuent the the euills which beset vs in our ordinarie callings couetousnesse iniustice impatience and distracting care Naturally men are apt to incumber themselues with superfluous businesse and trouble themselues about the euent and successe they content not themselues with their lot and condition but desire to heape vp riches and encrease their substance aboue measure they forecast many things in their heads long before and know no end of their cares The trouble men meet with in the world begets loue of the world and whether they be crossed or prosper the more they be exercised about the things of this life the more they follow after them with greedinesse vexation discontent plotting and deuising how to compasse their designes whether by right or wrong frâ—ud or oppression The soueraigne remedie against those and other the like misâ—heifes which we are prone to runne into is a liuely fâ—ith which lifteth vp the heart to better things then ought is to be found vnder the moone quietly submitteth vnto the good pleasure of God commendeth the successe and euent of all honâ—st endeauours vnto his Highnesse and resteth vpon his grace for present helpe â—nd future supply in the vse of such meanes as he hath ordained Without faith it is impossible to please God Heb. 11.6 God is the Authour of euery honest vocation and by his appointment men ought to labour in some particular state or condition of life but that worke is not acceptable which is not done in faith If faith doe not quicken season and guide the workes of our calling they are dead and carnall as they come from vs neitheir begun vpon sound ground nor done in vniforme and right manner nor directed to a right end That which should put life into the action is absent if faith be lacking Experience is of great vse in a godly life both to confirme faith strengthen hope preserue loue ouercome temptations and direct in difficulties But the readie meanes to get grounded experience is to liue by faith in the workes of our vocation and obserue how the Lord dealeth with vs therein according to his word The acts of faith in respect of the duties of our calling Pro. 16.20 The acts of faith in this particular be these First It informeth to make choise of an honest vocation for which we are fitted and into which we may enter by direct good and lawfull meanes He that vnderstandeth a matter shall finde good saith Solomon wherein hee teacheth that what businesse any man taketh in hand he must know it well and accurately if hee looke to finish it honestly and with good successe This therefore is the rule by which we are directed in our vocation that what art any man knoweth he should exercise himselfe in it This as it must be obserued in all arts sciences professions in the familie Common-wealth Church so as euery art or profession is of greater moment in any societie publike or priuate sacred or prophaine it is with greater diligence more studiously to be looked vnto As our calling must bee honest that is seruiceable to the Church Common-wealth or priuate familie and as we must be gifted for it so must we enter by lawfull and direct meanes appointed of God that wee may be assured our calling is of God and that hee will accept of our seruice in that estate and condition of life Secondly Faith instructeth not to meddle aboue our knowledge but to leane vpon the liuing Lord not on our skill or cunning Pro. 16.20 Pro. 3.5.6 Who so trusteth in the Lord happy is hee Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and leane not vnto thine owne vnderstanding In all thy wayes acknowledge him and he shall direct thy pathes It is hard for a man very skilfull so to with-draw his heart and thought from his skill as that he doe not wholy rest in it but faith looking further then sence or reason is able dispossesseth the heart of this carnall confidence and fixeth it vpon the Lord alone For it acknowledgeth him onely to be the fountaine of all good and perswadeth the soule that vnlesse it relie vpon his grace wisedome and strength he shall bring nothing to passe by his own wisedome wit cunning Psal 127.1.2 Hag. 1.6.9 Eccl. 9.11 For either he shall not effect what he endeauours to doe by the helpe and benefit of his skill or if he bring it to passe it shall not succeed or auaile him to those honest vses which he intended The race is not to to the swift nor the battell to the strong neither yet bread to the wise nor yet riches to men of vnderstanding nor yet fauour to men of skill Thirdly It quickeneth the most skilfull workeman to striue with God in prayer that the worke he setteth vpon might succeed well and prosper that is that his skill might be readie and at hand whereby he might finish the thing that he goeth about and that it might be of vse to them for whom it is appointed For being sensible of his owne weakenes expecting helpe and supply from heauen he will not cease to craue the aide and blessing of God It is the property of faith to pray coÌ„tinually looking vnto the most High for help hauing aliuely sence of present want which stirreth vp a serious affectioÌ„ of praying Fourthly It causeth diligence care vprightnesse and faithfulnesse in all the workes actions and businesse of our calling Psal 128.2 Ephe. 6.5 6.2 as knowing that whilest wee walke honestly therein wee doe seruice to the Lord Iesus It is noted of the vertuous wise faithfull and godly woman that shee seeketh wooll Pro. 31.13.15 and flaxe and worketh willingly with her hands She riseth also while it is yet night and giueth meate to her houshold Faith awakeneth the sluggard rowseth the laisie maketh the idle lay his bones to worke and him that was a purloyner to deale truely iustly and honestly It is the best cocke to call vp the drowsie for it ringeth in his eare when wilt thou arise loe the Lord calleth thee to thy taske why tariest thou so long stirrest so slowly The Sunne reioyceth as a Gyant to runne his race why sharpenest not thou thy selfe to the worke which God hath laid vpon thee It it the willingest messenger to bee sent vpon any businesse the trustiest ouerseer of any labour the most free vndergoer of any toyle or paines â— Chron. 34.12 you neede not call him to reckoning who accounts with faith nor hast him forward who moueth by faith nor chaine him to his worke who by faith vndertaketh it Eph. 6.8 For he is assured he doth it vnto God who calleth vpon him and from whom hee must expect recompence if hee walke chearefully and in singlenesse of heart When a man is perswaded that his calling is approued of God and profitable to
there of better hopes well instructed in the principles of religion diligent frequenters of Gods Ordinances and carefull to beautifie their profession with an holy conuersation who did neuer distinctly and in good earnest consider of this matter when yet they must needs acknowledge that it cannot be well done as it ought if it be not done in faith The acts of faith in this particular be these The acts of faith in this particular and such like First It calleth to remembrance the free and gratious couenant which God hath made with the belieuing parents and their posteritie I am thy God Gen. 17.7.9 Act. 2.39 and the God of thy seed For the promise is made vnto you and to your children and to al that are a farre off euen as many as the Lord our God shal call which couenant as it is made with the parents and their seed so doth the faith of the parent apprehend the promise of the couenâ—nt for himselfe and for his seed And this is the ground of that tender which a Christian mâ—kes of his Child vnto holy Baptisme For by naturall generation the Children of belieuing parents are defiled with sinne and so vnder wrath but the are holy by couenant and free acceptation the belieuing parent embracing the mercifull promise of God for himselâ—e and for his posteritie Infants are not borne Christians by naturall birth but made Christians by vertue of the couenant God promising to accept them vpon offer made vnto him by the parents Secondly By faith the belieuing parents must giue themselues vnto God chusing him to bee their portion and resigning themselues in all things to be guided by his word in all estates and conditions Hee that would giue his childe vnto God must giue himselfe first Is it probable that Father can truly desire and long after the preferment of his childe in the Kingdome of grace here and of glory heâ—eafter who will not enter himselfe nor submit his will to the commandement of grace The promise is made to the faithfull and that faith only which drawes a man to yeeld vp soule and body as a liuing sacrifice vnto God pleasing and acceptable vnto his Maiestie doth quicken a parent truly sincerely freely and as he ought to make tender of his childe vnto God Thirdly It prouoketh parents to offer their children vnto God by heartie and vnfained prayer assoone as euer they haue receiued them from him Gods promise to accept our children calleth for prayer and supplication on our part that he would be pleased to make good his mercifull and free promise Thus Dauid reasoneth Thou O Lord 2. Sam. 7.27 of hosts God of Israel hast reuealed to thy seruant saying I will build thee an house therefore hath thy seruant found in his heart to pray this prayer vnto thee And so should euery Father O Lord thou hast couenanted to bee my God and the God of my posteritie therefore am I bold to intreat thy fatherly acceptance of my poore Infant Fourthly It considereth what a singular prerogatiue it is to be actually admitted into couenant with God receiued into his family and to haue his name put vpon vs to be partaker of the seale of regeneration remission of sinnes adoption and euerlasting inheritance solemnely to be made free of the societie of Saints and weare the Lords badge and liuerie And what an high and incomprehensible mercie it is that God hath promised and doth vouchsafe these great and inestimable blessings not only to himselfe a miserable and wretched sinner but also to his posteritie who by naturall generation are enemies to his Highnesse dead in trespasses and in bondage vnto the curse of the law With these or the like meditations of faith belieuing parents must present their children vnto Baptisme that they might receiue the seale of regeration remission of sinnes and spirituall libertie that the Name of God might bee set vpon them and their names registred amongst the free Denisons of the heauenly Ierusalem And feruent effectuall prayer doth accompany this admission that God would bee pleased to accept the partie baptized for his childe by grace and adoption release him of his sins and make him partaker of his euerlasting kingdome Faith belieueth what God promiseth as hee promiseth it and beggeth feruently what hee giueth freely Fiftly It stirreth vp heartie reioycing in the Lord that hee hath vouchsafed in tender compassion to looke vpon them and their posteritie and thus to honour and aduance them for the truest Nobilitie is to bee made a Christian and to liue in fauour with God A worldly Father would much reioyce if his childe should bee preferred to some chiefe Office in the Princes Court assoone as it was borne A Christian Father hath much greater cause of ioy that he is admitted not as a seruant but as a sonne and heire into the Court of the great King of Heauen and Earth If parents can compasse but a Lease of some Farme for â—hemselues and theirs they are glad and shall they not reioyce that God hath by couenant and seale passed the grant of the Kingdome of Heauen to them and theirs Sixtly It stirreth vp parents to be diligent and carefull to bring vp their children in information and feare of the Lord being instant with God to blesse their endeauours for the good of their children and the glorie of his name For thus faith perswadeth Thy childe is not thine but the Lords thou hast dedicated him vnto the seruice of his Maiestâ—e and he fâ—om whom thou receiuedst him at first hath committed him to thy charge to bee trained vp in his feare It is a great honour to bee trusted with such a châ—rge and it is a fearefull sinne to neglect so great a trust Wilt thou consecrate thy childe to God this day and leaue him to the Deuill for euer after Wilt thou teach him a trade that hee might liue as a Man and not teach him the way of godlinesse that he might liue as a Christian Didst thou not vndertake for his education in the true Religion and wilt thou neglect the peâ—formance of that solemne oath Mar. 10.25 16. Christ commanded the children of Christian parents to be brought vnto him and wilt thou present them vntaught and ignorant of the Christian faith The same conscience which moued parents to offer their children to Baptisme will quicken them to endeauour their education in the true faith and seruice of God By faith wee should make right vse of our Baptisme Baptisme is a seale of the couenant betwixt God vs of Gods promise to vs that he will be our God and of our promise to him that we will be his people repent of our sins belieue in Christ walk before him in sincere obedience For signification force vse fruit it continueth not for a moment of time but for the whole course of a mans life It doth respect not only the time past and present but that which is to
the worke of mortification with much readinesse ibid. 5. The promises of God concerning spirituall things are linked together p. 248 The acts of faith about the promises of sanctification 1. It acquaints a man with his emptinesse of grace and the strength of his inbred corruption p. 248. 249 2. It sheweth where the strength is to bee had which we want and stirres vp to a constant conscionable and diligent vse of the meanes of grace p. 249. 250 3. It inciteth to an holy improuement of what grace we haue receiued ibid. 4. It fighteth couragiously against sinne and cryeth instantly to the Lord for helpe ibid. 5. It submitteth willingly to what course the Lord is pleased to take for the crucifying of sinne ibid. 6. Faith is the band or sinew whereby wee are tyed vnto Christ the fountaine of grace p. 251. 252 7. True faith stirreth vp to thankefulnesse for the beginning of sanctification p. 252 The meanes how a Christian is to stirre vp faith to belieue that God will sanctifie him when hee seeth nothing but thraldome 1. Hee must bewayle his spirituall nakednesse thraldome and vassalage vnder sinne p. 252. 253 2. Hee must looke to the grace truth and power of God who hath promised to sanctifie to the fulnesse and sufficiency that is in Christ the fountaine of grace p. 254 3. He must pray instantly vnto the Lord for sanctifying grace p. 255 4. It is good to moue the heart quietly to rest in the promise and reioyce in hope p. 255 CHAP. IIII. CHrist hath purchased for vs life euerlasting no lesse then righteousnesse p 256 Eternall life is promised vpon condition of faith in Christ p. 256 Life eternall is begun in them that belieue p. 257 When first we belieue them are wee intituled to life euerlasting and so haue the accomplishment of glory in respect of right and propriety p. 257. 258 It is our duty to belieue in God through Iesus Christ for the obtayning of eternall life to be giuen of grace ibid. It is very necessary to belieue it 1. That we might with more quietnesse of Mind beare the afflictions troubles and persecutions which befall vs in this world p. 258 2. It serues to establish our hearts against sundry worldly cares and feares p. 259 3. If we keepe Heauen in our eye we shall fight couragiously and runne with patience notwithstanding all opposition ibid. The acts of faith concerning these promises 1. As an humble petitioner it receiueth and layeth hold vpon saluation it selfe promised p. 259. 260 2. Faith doth not begin to apprehend life and then leaue it to workes but doth euer rest vpon the promise vntill we come to enioy it p. 260 3. By faith we receiue the promised Spirit as the earnest of our inheritance p. 260. 261 4. Faith in the promises of euerlasting life leadeth forward in the paths of peace and righteousnesse p. 261. 262 5. It seeketh to get our title confirmed and assured to the conscience by euidence and earnest or pawne p. 263 6. It striueth to enter the possession of this heauenly kingdome by degrees p. 263 7. It earnestly desires and longeth after the full accomplishment of glory p. 263. 264 8. It assureth that wee are made heires of glory to which God of his grace will bring vs in his time appointed p. 264. 265 God in great mercy doth vouchsafe to his adopted sonnes many excellent royalties in this life p. 265. 266 The act of faith that arise from the priuiledges of the godly in this life 1. Faith resteth vpon the grace of God to receiue from him whatsoeuer may be good and profitable p. 266. 267 2. It petitioneth instantly for succour p. 267. 268 3. It receiueth earthly blessings as gifts of the couenant and tokens of loue p. 268 4. Faith in these the foresaid promises doth greatly enlarge the heart towards God ibid. 5. It doth inwardly quiet and cheere the heart in the midst of manifold outward discouragements p. 268. 269 The way and meanes to stirre vp faith in these promises 1. To humble our selues vnfainedly in respect of our miserable and accursed estate by sinne and former carelesnesse to seeke mercy c. p. 269. 270. 271. 272 2. We must incite and stirre vp our selues to receiue the promises of euerlasting life by consideration of the free and rich grace of God his truth and faithfulnesse the sufficiency of Christs merits and greatnesse excellency and worth of the benefit promised p. 272. 273. 274. 275. 276 3. We must pray earnestly that God would increase our faith seale vs by his Spirit lead vs in the way of peace cause vs to grow vp in holinesse make vs wise to prize and value to taste and relish the joyes of Heauen and assure our consciences of right and title to that euerlasting inheritance p. 277. 278 4. We must quicken our selues to reioyce in God wait patiently and walke chearefully before him p. 278. 279 CHAP. V. GOd hath made many promises of perseuerance p. 279 280 The loue which God beareth to his people is an euerlasting loue and the couenant which hee hath made with them effectually and shall bee kept assuredly is an euerlasting couenant p. 280. 281 The condition of the couenant is promised in the couenant it selfe p. 281. 282 All the faithfull are built vpon the rocke not vpon the rocke now and anone vpon the sand p. 282 The sheepe of Christ shall neuer perish neither shall any man plucke them out of his hand p. 282. 283 They are fenced against the treachery of their owne hearts remayning in them p. 283 The holy Spirit is sent into their hearts to dwell and remayne with them as an earnest of their inheritance vntill the redemption of the purchased possession p. 283. 284 The life which they liue by faith in Christ is an euerlasting life p. 284 Christ hath prayed for his people that their faith should not faile p. 284 We are assured from God that he will perfect the worke of grace which he hath begun ibid. By serious meditation on these promises we must settle our selues in belieuing our perseuerance which is very necessary For 1. Had it not beene a point of great weight the Lord would not haue mentioned it so often p. 285 2. We are weake and feeble to withstand our spiâ—ituall enemies potent and vigilant to assaile ibid. 3. Our weaknesse is not greater then our backwardnesse to belieue the promises of perseuerance when we stand in most need ibid. 4. Whilst Christians distrustfully question their perseuerance all present fauours seeme the lesse all other promises be held the more weakly ibid. 5. Confidence in the promises of perseuerance doth encourage and quicken in a Christian course p. 286 He that hath faith indeed will not nay he cannot take courage to goe on in sinne vpon this pretence that faith once had cannot vtterly be lost ibid. 6. Looke how much wee come short in belieuing the faithfull promises of God concerning our future
iudge and esteeme those things reuealed of God to be the most vndoubted and infallible truth This vnderstanding is requisite to faith for it is impossible for a man to belieue that whereof he hath no knowledge or vnderstanding Out of question faith is a most wise gâ—ft or grace of Gods holy Spirit making those that be endued therewith wise vnto saluation which we shall easily discerne if we consider how great the subtletie of that old Serpent the Deuill is as also the deceitfulnesse of sinne both which are defeated by faith This vnderstanding is the gift of Gods grace for as reasonable vnderstanding is beyond the compasse of that knowledge which the beasts haue by kâ—nd so is this vnderstanding farre beyond the reach of all that wisedome left in corrupted nature It is a worke irresistable for it is wrought according to the purpose of the Lord 2. Cor. 4.6 2. Tim. 1.9 Dan. 11.36 and the counsell of God cannot be frustrated In illumination the minde suffereth not from any naturall power which it hath to conceiue or vnderstand spirituall things but from that state of obedience that the minde standeth in vnto Almightie God whereby it must necessarily see whatsoeuer he will enlighten it to behold and set before it There is no naturall power in an eye now blind to receiue sight but if God will enlighten it must needs see So there is no naturall power in the eye of the mind now become darknesse to receiue the light of sauing knowledge which is euery way a thing both for matter and manner supernaturall vnto it but if he open the eyes of the vnderstanding and shine into the heart it must needes vnderstand Secondly God doth infuse or powre the habit of faith into man whereby he giueth to will to come vnto Christ and to enioy him The first worke of God is signified in Scripture by opening the eyes of the vnderstanding Ephes 1.18 Acts 26.18 Lukâ— 24.45 Iohn 6.44 Esay 50.5 Acts 16.14 Ezek. 11.19 the second by Gods drawing vs both at least figuratiuely by the opening of the eare the opening of the heart the taking away the heart of stone and giuing an heart of flesh This second worke is requisite to faith for as a dead man can do no act of life vntil a liuing soule be breathed into him nor a blinde eye see vnlesse new light be giuen vnto it no more can man dead in trespasses and sinnes moue himselfe to receiue the promises of grace vntill the free and gracious disposition or habit of faith be infused whereby the will is inclined agreeably to the disposition of it to come vnto God As man cannot naturally see or perceiue the things of God no more can hee naturally will or desire them And this is apparant by the hardnesse of mans heart that cannot repent till God mollifie it 1. Cor. 2.14 Isay 65.2 3. Rom. â— 5 and by his stiffeneckednesse and stubbornnesse to resist the holy Spirit speaking in the Ministerie of the word vntill he be renewed and changed by grace This habit of faith is receiued not by any naturall disposition of will in vs to heauenly things for then man should liue spiritually of himselfe before the life of grace be put into him but the heart as it standeth in obedience to Gods Almighty power to take what stampe he shall imprint to follow him wither hee shall draw and to containe what hee powreth into it The increase of faith is of God admitteth this habite And as the beginning so the increase and progresse the consummation and perfection of faith is the gift of God the worke of the Spirit Heb. 12.2 Luke 17.5 Marke 9.24 Phil. 1.6 2. Thes 1.3 11. Of God the increase of faith is to be asked and from him it is receiued As we cannot will to belieue vnlesse God prepare the heart and giue that will no more can we will to perseuere in faith or goe forward therein vnlesse God doe minister strength and sustaine vs by his grace §. 5. Faith is the gift of God and the act of man § 5. Faith then is the gift of God and the act of man a wonderfull and supernaturall gift of God and a liuely motion of the heart renewed by grace and powerfully moued by the Spirit The power to belieue and will to vse that power is of God But the act of the will in resting vpon Christ is mans It is man that belieueth but it is God only and altogether that inableth stirreth vp putteth forward and inclineth the heart to belieue By Gods enlightening man seeth by his teaching he vnderstands and the Lord enclining his will he willeth embraceth possesseth and keepeth Christ with all blessings promised in him So that faith is the motion of mans heart wrought in him by the Spirit of God Euen as a wheele which of it selfe cannot moue yet being moued of another doth moue whose motion though but one is said to be the motion of the mouer and of the thing moued so faith is nothing but the action of God in man but considered in a diuers manner it is both the act of God and man as wrought by God in man it is the worke of the Lord as the motion of man his heart being moued of God it is the act of man For the action of man in belieuing with the heart is nothing but his knowing and acknowledging of things by Gods making him know and acknowledge them his apprehending willing chusing embracing and retayning them by Gods making him to apprehend will chuse embrace and retaine them It is true that we Belieue because we will Belieue but wee will Belieue doth note not the princip ll cause but a cause subordinate working by way of free disposition which diâ—position it receiueth from an higher cause Heb. â— 4 not from naturall strength The Iust is said to liue by his owne faith and faith is called ours or our owne not that we are the Authours cause or workers of it but because we possesse it and are the speciall subiects in which it is wrought by God And also because it concernes our selues in particular and what wee belieue wee belieue it particularly concerning our selues § 6. Not to dispute whether God doth extraordinarily worke faith in the hearts of men §. 6. Faith wrought by the Word without the externall publishing of his word will or pleasure this is sure that ordinarily the Holy Ghost doth worke by the Ministerie of the Word The Word can doe nothing without Gods Spirit and ordinarily the Spirit will doe nothing without the Word Faith is called the fruit of the lips Esay 57. â—9 the Word is both the meane whereby we belieue and the subiect matter of our beliefe A man may see without light or colour heare without eare or sound as possibly as belieue without the Word of God For when faith is an affiance or perswasion touching the good will of God towards vs in
Ethiopians and the Lubims a huge host with very many charets and horsemen yet because thou didst relie vpon the Lord hee deliuered them into thine hand Isay 10.20 And it shall come to passe in that day that the remnant of Israel and such as are escaped of the house of Iacob shall no more againe stay vpon him that smote them but shall stay vpon the Lord the holy one in truth Two of these words are vsed together in diuers places and may serue to expound each other Wherefore thus saith the holy one of Israel Isay 30.12 Because yee despise this word and trust in oppression and peruersenesse and stay thereon Woe to them that goe downe to Egypt for helpe Isay 31.1 and stay on horses and trust in charets because they are many and horsemen because they are very strong but they looke not vnto the holy one of Israel neither seeke the Lord. Who is among you that feareth the Lord Isay 50.10 that obeyeth the voice of his seruant that walketh in darknes and hath no light let him trust in the Name of the Lord and stay vpon his God Another word there is almost of the same signification which noteth with all the mind and thought confidently to leane or stay vpon a prop. Isay 48.2 They call themselues of the holy Citie slay themselues vpon the Lord God of Israel the Lord of Hosts is his Name So it is noted of the people of Israel that they rested or leaned vpon the words of King Hezekiah coÌ„forting them against the rage of Senacharib 2. Chron. 32.8 This word is coupled somtimes with one or two others Thou art my hope O Lord God thou art my trust from my youth Psal 71.5 6. By thee haue I beene holden vp or vnderpropped from the wombe He shall not be afraid for euill tidings his heart is fixed trusting in the Lord. Psal 112.7 8. His heart is established he shall not be afraid vntill he see his desire vpon his enemies open yee the gates that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in Thou wilt keepe him in perfect peace whose minde is stayed on thee because he trusteth in thee Isay 26.2 3 4. Trust yee in the Lord for euer for in the Lord Iehouah is euerlasting strength The sixt word signifies to rolle or cast himselfe vpon the Lord as a man in danger of drowning catcheth fast hold of some willow or other thing that hangeth ouer the water and is at hand or as hee that is pressed with with a grieuous burden aboue his strength easeth himselfe resting it vpon some post or blocke that is able to beare it Psal 22.8 Hee trusted in Lord that he would deliuer him let him deliuer him seeing he rolled himselfe on the Lord. Rolle thy way vpon the Lord trust in him Psal 37.5 Pro. 16.3 Ier. 17.5 Psal 62.6 7. and he shall bring it to passe Rolle thy workes vpon the Lord and thy thoughts shall be established To trust in Man is to make man his arme letting his heart goe back from God and to trust in God is to place our strength in him In the Scriptures confidence is oft put for faith and trust expounded by beliefe c Psal 2.12 34.8 Marke 16.16 Esay 26.3 Rom. 5.1 Psal 22 5. Rom. 10.11 Psal 112.7 8. Heb. 10.38 as where the Old Testament commandeth trust the New Testament requireth faith and in the New Testament the same things are attributed to faith and belieuers which in the Old Testament are attributed to confidence and them that trust in the Lord. In the New d Math. 9.2.22 Luke 5.20 1. Iohn 5.13 14. Acts 27.21 Luke 16.11 Rom. 3.2 4.19 Marke 11.24 Testament Faith and Beliefe are put for trust and affiance and to belieue is not only to assent but to rest vpon and embrace The phrase which the Holy Ghost most commonly vseth to expresse Belieuing in Christ is neither in the Greeke Translation of the Olde Testament nor for ought hath beene yet obserued in any Greeke Authour whatsoeuer except those that did write since and tooke it from the Scripture To belieue in God or in Christ is for substance and sence to trust to God or Christ and this kind of speech is vsuall amongst Greeke Writers To helpe vs in the vnderstanding of this matter the seuentie in their Greeke afford another phrase maruellous significant 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Psal 2.12 2. Chron. 16.7 Psal 77.26 111.7 124.1 To belieue on or vpon God This the Holy Ghost vseth often but withall he becomes the Authour of a new e Sept. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Acts 19.4 20 21. 24.24 Math. 9.42 Iohn 1.12 phrase himselfe to make vs the more easily and fully vnderstand what faith hee meaneth in the matter of our Iustification And though the f Iohn 2.23 12.42 phrase bee sometimes vsed when true and liuely confidence is not vnderstood yet it is more then probable that the Holy Ghost by that new manner of speech would propound somewhat more then bare assenting to the truth of what was promised And if we coÌ„sider the passages of Scripture wherein the phrase is vsed it will bee plaine and euident To him that worketh not Rom. 4.5 but belieueth on him that iustifieth the vngodly his faith is counted for righteousnesse What is this Belieueth on him that iustifieth the vngodly no more but belieueth those things to be true which he affirmeth who iustifieth the vngodly that is not probable Rom. 9.33 1. Pet. 2.6 Behold I lay in Sion a stumbling stone and rocke of offence and whosoeuer belieueth on him shall not bee ashamed How can a man belieue on this rocke vnlesse he leane vpon it or sticke and adhere vnto it Faith looketh at the promises as true and putteth forth it selfe to receiue and embrace them as good which cannot bee done by a bare perswasion of the Minde If the promises were only true but no wayes beneficiall there might be an â—ssured perswasion of them in Mind without any affection or mouing of will towards them But faith adhereth to the word as good to me as well as true in it selfe which cannot be done without a godly affection embracing it To belieue on Christ is to receiue him Iohn 1.12 Col. 2.6 And what is this receiuing Not only a comprehension of the vnderstanding but an embracing of the heart and affection laying hold on him as we take that with the hands which is reached vnto vs. Belieuing on Christ is implied in the phrase of going or comming to Christ which going Iohn 6. â—5 no doubt is rather a spirituall motion of the heart and affections towards Christ then a contemplation of the Mind contented to see and behold him The Holy Ghost speaking of Iustifying faith doth vse the intire phrase f 1. Pet. 1.8.21 Acts 16.31 Rom 9.33 1. Pet. 2.6 Iohn 14.1 3.16 â— 35.36
of faith in God and Christ or on God and Christ which either there or elsewhere is declared by confidence or trust in God and Christ And the same must bee vnderstood when nothing is added g Math. 16 16. Iohn 20.31 Rom. 10.9 1. Cor 15.2 3 4. Acts 8.37 but life or Iustification is attributed to beliefe that Iesus Christ is the Sonne of God For it is a generall rule that words of knowledge are words of affection much more words of beliefe As the people of God looked for the Messias so according to the prophesies they promised to themselues all good in and by the Messias The woman of Samaria could say Iohn 4.25 When the Messias commeth he will teach vs all things Where wee may see that there was not only a knowledge of Christ to come but an expectation and hope placed in him as in whom all good things promised should be accomplished So that if we consider the disposition of the people whose hope did hang on the Messias wee may plainly vnderstand that to belieue the Messias is not only to know but to haue an affiance in him If by belieuing that Iesus is Christ no more be meant but bare assenting vnto that truth Marke 1.24 then the Deuils professe as much But that beliefe to which life is ascribed is not a bare action of the vnderstanding but of the heart and will It is such a beliefe as whereby Christ is to our hearts that which we belieue him to be whereby wee come to Christ belieue in him and rest vpon him for saluation whereby we belieue to our owne vse and comfort that which wee belieue It is such a beliefe as desireth seeketh embraceth holdeth ioyeth in that which it belieueth because therein it seeth peace Popish Obiections preuented whereby wee so belieue that Iesus is Christ as that according to that we belieue him to be we put our trust and confidence in hm Rom. 4.19 20. Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap. 6. Rom. 4.18 The faith of Abraham is commended for the firme assent that he gaue to the promise of God but the confidence of his heart resting vpon and cleauing vnto the promise is not obscurely declared For the Apostle saith Abraham belieued aboue hope that is he conceiued firme confidence in heart of the truth and power of God which is manifest by the Antithesis Hee doubted not by g As the vulgar hath it Rom. 4.20 distrust or infidelitie for incredulitie is as well the distrust h Math. 14.31 17.20 Marke 9.24 of heart as the hesitation of minde If Abraham had only acknowledged the truth of that which God promised and not trusted to him for the performance thereof what could that faith haue profited him What can it auaile any man to iustification that he holds Iesus Christ to be the only Sauiour and faith in him the only meanes of saluation if he doe not withall relie vpon him to be saued by his mediation What that the Apostle himselfe applying that particular of Abraham to all belieuers expoundeth that belieuing by confidence in or relying vpon God Rom. 4.24 which belieue on him that raised vp Iesus our Lord from the dead Faith is the substance of things hoped for and the euidence of things not seene Heb. 11.1 not only because it makes things speculatiuely to subsist in the Mind Bellar. de Just. lib. 1. cap. 5. but much more because it makes them i Heb. 4.16 10.22.35 fiducially to subsist in the heart as appeareth by the Apostle putting k Heb 3.6.14 2. Cor. 9.4 11.17 Ezek. 19.5 Mich. 5.7 Psal â—8 11. Sept. substance and confidence for the same For the subsistence of things hoped for is trust or confidence whereby wee rest on the promises diuine knowing and being perswaded that God will make good whatsoeuer hee hath spoken And faith is the substance of things hoped for because it is a confident resting vpon God for the accomplishment of what he hath spoken as if it were alreadie fulfilled And so it is the demonstration of things to come not intellectuall only but fiduciall which is a sweet motion of the heart enlarging it selfe and resting in the mercie of God present and to come and making things to come in a sort present to the heart in respect of the promise made by God and the taste and inchoation of the good promised Heb. 11.3 That faith is an assent to diuine reuelation that it is in the vnderstanding and that the act of faith is to vnderstand no man denieth but it is assent conioyned with affiance not a bare but fiduciall assent which is referred to God as hâ—e is faithfull in performing promises as hope is referred to him as he hath power and authoritie to performe whatsoeuer hee hath promised The Apostle saith Ephes 3 12. Bellar. de Iust l. 1. cap. 6. §. 1. Wee haue boldnâ—sse and accesse with confidence by the faith of Christ which passage doth rather proue faith to bee confidence then otherwise for confidence may be ioyned to faith as his proper passion A man is said to worke by reason becauâ—e hee is reasonable so faith to come vnto God with confidence because it is fiduciall Nothing can make another thing hot which hath not heate in it selfe nor could faith in gender confidence in the belieuer if in its owne nature it did not containe the same God is loue essentially and originally and yet he worketh loue in vs 1. Iohn 4.8 another kind of loue which is an Image and effect of his loue Loue in which we obserue the Commandements is the â—ormall effect of loue the effects of loue flow from loue As the effect is so is the cause Can the waters be sweet if the fountaine bee bitter Confidence accompanying faith respecteth all the promises of God and is the store-house of all particular confidence the confidence wrought by faith is the particular application of this generall confidence Confidence considered as it doth embrace Christ with a certaine affiance is the forme of faith as it begetteth in vs quietnesse of conscience and confidence of libertie it is an effect of faith The meaning of the Apostle seemeth to be this Because we are reconciled vnto God by faith in Christ Rom 5.1 2 3. Rom. 8.33 therefore in confidence or confidently we come vnto God neither distrusting nor doubting that wee haue accesse vnto him So that by confidence in Christ we haue confidence in God to obtaine those things that we stand in need of Moreouer confidence is opposed to doubting when the h 1. Cor. 1.14 15 2. Cor. â— 1 2. Cor. 8.22 2. Cor. 10.2 vnderstanding doth cleaue to neither part of the contradiction but doth floate betwixt both and to Distrust when the will doth chuse not to trust to the promiser And if wee expound the words of the Apostle in the passage before cited of confidence as it is opposed to
with all benefits past and to come which it pleaseth God to bestow vpon his people in Iesus Christ are the matter about which faith is exercised but as it iustifieth Christ is the full and adequate obiect of beliefe as our reasonable soule doth see in the eye heare in the eare digest in the stomake but doth not reason as it doth these things but onely as it conceiueth and discourseth within vs. The Obiect of Iustifying faith two-folde 1. Generall So that according to the twofold consideration of iustifying faith the obiect of it is twofold Generall and Speciall 1. The Generall obiect is the whole truth of God reuealed vnto vs in his word containing all Histories Doctrines Commaunds Threatnings promises of what kinde soeuer True faith respecteth the whole word of God True faith respects all this and onely this Only this because diuine reuelations only be of certaine and infallible truth which cannot deceiue and whereunto men can safely giue vnlimitted and absolute credite All this because euery parte of diuine inspired truth is worthy of all Beliefe and reuerence and so there is nothing contained in Scriptures threatning promise precept admonition exhortation prophesie or historie which falls not in some degree or other within the compasse of sauing Faith God who cannot lie hath propounded to men for truth and to be belieued whatsoeuer is deliuered in Scriptures and so it is a matter of faith but so farre forth only as it is intended to be held for true by the holy Ghost the Authour of the Scripture There is no doubt to be made but whatsoeuer is registred in the Historicall Bookes of holy Scripture by way of report is to bee taken for true in respect of storie that wee may not doubt whether those things were done or said which are there reported to be done or said But in these bookes wee haue some worthy speeches of godly men and some leud and blasphemous words of profane and wretched men The former are to be acknowledged to bee for the truth of God euery way the later must be acknowledged to be truely reported As for example it is true that Iacob vttered those prophesies of the twelue Patriarks his sonnes Gen. 44.1.2 and it is also true that those prophesies of his were the very truth of God It is as true that Rabshaketh deliuered those blasphemous threatnings against the Lord and his people 1. Reg. 18.30 and 19.5.6 but it is not true that those words came from God as Iacobs did so Iacobs were to bee taken as euery way true truely related and the truth of God Rabshakeths onely as truely reported from his mouth but in themselues blasphemous § 3. Thus faith yeeldeth firme and absolute assent to all diuine historie §. 3. 1. The historicall part as the doctrine of the as containing a certaine and sure relation of those things whereof they intreate and to whatsoeuer came from God as euery way true and to bee receiued nor doth it barely assent to the thing spoken as true but moueth and stirreth affections according as the nature of the thing belieued should and ought to worke Through faith wee vnderstand that the worlds were framed by the word of God not barely giuing credit to Moses relation touching the creation of the world but looking vnto the wisedome goodnesse and power of God whereby the heart is moued to feare reuerence and submission That faith Creation Heb. 11.3 which is deepely fastened in the heart and beholdeth the true God the creatour and Gouernour of all things as his power bountie and vnderstanding shineth in his workes that saith inciteth to humilitie reuerence loue and worship of God Through faith wee vnderstand that God hath protected and preserued and blessed his people from time to time Prouidence afflicted them when they went astray deliuered them out of the hands of their persecutors when they humbled themselues and sought vnto him inclined the hearts of their enemies to shew them fauour confounded those that rose vp against them and mercifully performed all his promises in the fittest season and where this firme beliefe is planted it begetteth a constant and well-aduised resolution to draw neere to God and cleaue to him in all conditions prosperitie and and aduersitie sickenes and health freedome and trouble when religion is fauoured and when it is persecuted because saluation is of the Lord Psal 73 24 27. he will guide his people by counsell and afterward receiue them to glorie but they that are farre from God shall perish they that goe a whoring from him shall be destroyed Mans miserie by sinne What the Scripture teacheth of the miserie of all men by sinne the vanitie of Minde and corruption of nature that faith receiueth and thence followeth selfe-deniall and renunciation of all trust in worldly meanes The H gh and profound mysteries of godlinesse Misteries of godlinesse which the naturall man perceiueth not accounteth foolishenes faith imbraceth with admiration ioy delight and affection answereable to the nature of the doctrine into which we are deliuerd Beliefe of Gods power wisedome grace loue and mercie manifested in Iesus Christ doth frame the image of God or Christ in our mindes and proposeth it as a viâ—ible patterne for our imitation in all our workes thoughts and resolutions and stirreth vp to workes of pietie iustice mercie long suffering and the like § 4. Besides â—he promise of forgiuenesse of sinnes in and through the bloud of Christ §. 4. 2 The promises concerning there be many other pretious and rich promises spirituall and temporall concerning this and the life to come all which as proceeding from the same fountaine of truth faith doth rest vpon and imbrace and that so much the faster as the promises be more excellent There is a mutuall relation betwixt God promising any good blessing in Christ and the fai hfull soule putting forth it selfe to imbrace grace offeâ—ed For faith hath not only eyes by which it doth see the good promised but hands wherewith it doth lay hold vpon the good things bestowed and the more excellent the good which is reached vnto vs in the word of promise is the closer doth faith sticke vnto it the stronger doth it hold it Men are credulous in thingâ— that may concerne them in their name goods or life and the more weightie the matter the more earnest they be in seeking resolution and the stronger hope or feare it begetteth in them 2. Cor. 1.20 All the promises of God be yea and Amen sure in themselues certaine to the belieuer and therefore hee cannot but receiue them with closer and stronger repose and adherence the more he doth apprehend their goodnesse and worth Amongst the greate and more principall promises those are to bee reckoned Sanctification which God hath made concerning our Sanctification by his holy Spirit that hee will inable them that belieue to bring forth fruits of amendment and perfect the good worke
him euery day because hee knowes he will not disinherit him in the end and not rather say it is good sleeping in a whole skin And shall belieuers who are spiritually wise willingly prouoke God because he will not condemne them eternally The assurance which a godly man hath of his saluation is euer ioyned with a faithull and conscionable care to walke vprightly before the Lord and to decline by-paths and strayings for which end hee makes vse of euery part of the word Rom. 8.1 There is no condemnation to them which are in Christ Iesus who walke not after the flesh but after the Spirit Moreouer there may be feare of that which a man is infallibly assured to escape not a distrustfull feare of falling into it but a watchfull feare of shunning and shrinking all meanes leading thereunto §. 6. â— Commandements Titus 2.11 13. § 6. The word of grace which calleth vpon vs to belieue the free mercie of God in Christ to the pardon of our offences teacheth vs to denie vngodlinesse and worldly lusts and to liue godly iustly soberly in this present euill world and this word of grace is the matter of faith which is wholly receiued if any part take good rooting For the precepts of sanctitie and holinesse binde the conscience to obey God as well as the promises binde to trust in God What God hath linked together faith will not seperate But God hath coupled mercie and obedience grace and holinesse Hee cannot belieue or make faithfull plea to the promises of remission and saluation who doth not make conscience of all sound doctrine that he heareth and giue free vnlimited assent to euery part of Gods Word submitting himselfe to be led by it and that because it is his Word Faith setteth the Image of God vpon the heart which is manifested in the seuerall branches of holines and righteousnes which he commandeth in his Word and it resigneth a man vnto God to liue not vnto the world not vnto the lusts of the flesh but vnto the praise of his Name which is not possible to bee done if hee cleaue not vnto the Commandements as iust equall honest and good in all things and at all times to bee obeyed Faith cannot take and leaue yeeld and with-hold assent at pleasure part and mangle diuide with times seasons and priuate respects or resigne it selfe to God with limitation to haue leaue in this or that to liue at pleasure but it is downe-right for God and willingly receiueth whatsoeuer hee saith what God approueth that is pleasing to faith though crosse to age education custome credit honour naturall desire and inclination what God condemneth that faith disalloweth though neuer so much countenanced by authoritie graced by example attended vpon with honour dignitie preferment and suting to our disposition Faith subdueth the strongest passions as well and if due and right comparison be made as much as the weakest and acknowledging the Goodnesse Mercie and absolute Soueraignetie of the Lord yeeldeth it selfe to be led by him aboue all things that can oppose themselues and will not giue place to ought that doth set against him Gen. 12.1 4. If God bid Abraham leaue all his friends his Fathers house the land of his Natiuitie to goe into a strange countrie hee is straight vpon his iourney without further questioning hee will be gone Gen. 22.2 3. no intreatie will stay him in Mesopotamia If God commâ—nd him to offer his onely Sonne in sacrifice he is eaâ—ly vp to doe it The faithfull soule giues firme and free assent vnto all things reuealed by God eagerly fixeth the affiance of heaâ—t vpon the promises and cleaueth close vnto the Commandements not only such as suite wiâ—h his disposition education age but euen those that directly crosse and oppose carnall reason carnall affections worldly pleasures and what prouocations soeuer there bee in the world vnto sinne and not then alone when it may be done without contradiction or resistance but hen specially when temptations rise humane reason failes sinfull lusts hale this way and that Satan rageth the world frownes or flatters our preferment credit honour life all lies at stake In this case faith lookes directly nto God and iudgeth it best to sticke vnto him from whom comes saluation For no good can bee equall to that which God promiseth no euill so great as what he threatens no course so safe as what he prescribes no euidence so sure as the tâ—uth of God no command so iust as what God requires the greatest gaine is to loose all for Christs sake if we be called theâ—eunto wee should stand so affected to the glorie of God as to shrinke in no triall though neuer so difficult Heb. 12.4 nor thinke it much to râ—sist vnto bloud striuing against sinne This is the constant certaine iudgâ—ment of faith which bringeth forth a setled resolution to follow the Lord at all times and in all things In particular practices the faithfull may faile 1. Sam. 27.1 Psal 116. â—1 Mat. 26.70 72 74. notwithstanding all opposition In particular practice the faithfull soule may be ignorant of some things and weake in the application of others Dauid in a passion may thinke Samuel hath deceiued him and Peter surprised with bodily feare may denie his master but the constant temper of the belieuer is much better and if by some vnexpected occasion he be vnsetled he is neuer quiet vntill his former resolution be confirmed and put in practice For hauing we ghed and pondered all things in an euen ballance hee is assuredly perswaded that no outwarâ— euill can come in comparison with Gods anger no earthly good is to bee matched with Gods fauour that transitorie delights aâ—e deare bought if a man endanger his soule to compasse them that the sufferings of this l fe are not worthy to bee compared with the glorie that shall bee reuealed and therefore it is infinitely better to cleaue vnto God though in reproaches bands imprisonment or death Heb. 11.25 then to enioy the pleasures of sinne for a season § 7. And seeing faith kindly rooted doth spread it selfe to euery branch of diuine truth §. 7. The obedience of faith is vniforme intire and constant cleauing inseperably to the whole and with closest repose of heart to that which is most excellent and of greatest impoâ—tance the obedience which faith produceth and the worke which it animateth must be intire uniforme and constant Intire not in degree but in the branches of obedience Maimed obedience to some duties of the law lopping off other branches which accord not with our state humour and disposition or grossâ—ly neglecting them though no lesse commanded is an argument of an vnsound and imp rfect root whence it sprâ—ngeth The practice of some one or few Christian duties ioyned with the extreame neglect of others no lesse excellent and necessarie is no token of faith but a strong presumption that what good is done proceedeth from indulgence to corruption For
iâ— wee giue our selues to the prosequution of some good works because we receiue and embrace the word which coÌ„mandeth them then shall we giue our selues to the performance of euery good work which the same word doth call for at ou hands If wee doe this or that good worke coÌ„manded because it is sutable to our disposition passing ouer others that bee crosse thereunto wee obey not the Lord but please our selues The Word of God doth worke effectually as it is embracâ—d and the consideration of what Christ hath done for vs will bring forâ—h in vs the same minde that was in him a minde to doe his Fathers will in euery point alike sincerely but with greater intentions feruour and chearefulnesse as the weightinesse of the dutie or opportunitie and season shall require For true faith assenteth to euery diuine truth as certaine and infallible cleaueth to euery promise and commandement alike sincerely and vnfainedly sticketh fastest to them that bee of greatest worth and necessitie or vpon speciall occasion may most tend to the glorie of God the comfort of the soule and good of our brethren and so teacheth the affections to rise and fall swell and asswage whether in admiration or detestation in embracing or loathing and to put themselues forth in practice according to the different excellencie or indignitie goodnesse or vilenes of obiects presented to them It teacheth vs absolutely and intirely to submit our wils vnto Gods will to affect whatsoeuer hee approues to hate whatsoeuer he disallowes to loue that best which his Word assureth vs to be most excellent and deare to him and to detest that most which is most odious and abominable in his sight though otherwise pleasant to our naturall disposition or not so distastfull as many other matters would be did we take care for the flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof Indeed the faithfull soule may find it selfe more prone to one sinne then another and more dull to some good duties then other by reason of naturall inclination state of life custome or some other occasion but if right comparison be made faith inciteth to hate all sinne and to affect all duties of holinesse one as well as another A man sick of diuers diseases but one predominant may be cured of it as much as of any of the rest and yet be more troubled with the remainders of it because it had deepest root and greatest head and so euery member of corruption may be truely mortified and yet the stronger passions before though in proportionable degree tamed and brought into subiection as much as the rest may be the most troublesome which the faithfull doe ackowledge bewaile and endeuour to redresse keeping them vnder with greatest care and striuing against them with all earnestnes This fight against corruption is constantly mainâ—ained by faith and constantly it cleaueth to the word of grace as much better then all carnall or worldly allurements whereby we might be drawne aside into sinne and so it bringeth forth constant obedience to the will of God The good ground are they which with an honest and good heart hauing heard the word keepâ— it and bring forth fruite with patience Luk. 8.15 CHAP. VI. Of the Speciall obiect of Iustifying Faith § 1. FAith seeketh not life and saluation in the threatnings §. 1. The Speciall obiect of Iustifying faith prohibitions or commaundements though it worke by loue and earnestly contend against corruption but acknowledging its imperfection in working 2. Cor. 5.19 Rom. 15.25.26 Rom. 10.8 and 1 17. and renouncing all confidence in workes or in our selues it resteth vpon the promises of mercie in Iesus Christ or word of reconciliation which is called the word of faith The more firme and liuely our faith is the more sincerely it worketh the better wee discerne and vnfainedly acknowledge our imperfections and disclaime all affyance in our owne righteousnesse and the more faithfully we renounce all confidence in our workes the more earnestly wee seeke for saluation only by Christ Faith resteth vpon Christ as Mediatour or as God and Man obeying to the cursed of of the crosse that from the grace o God weâ— might obtaine pardon of sinne and be accepted as righteous vnto life For this wee are alway s â—o haue in Minde that Christ is the obiect of fai h not abstractly and nakedly considered but Christ with his benefits Christ lifted vp as the brason serpent Christ set forth as a propitiatorie sacrifice for our sinnes Christ as our redeemer from sinne and death Christ as he is set forth to the belieuer and thus to receiue Christ and belieue on him is to belieue and receiue in him ransome from sinne and death Mark 1.15 Act. 20.24 Luk. 24.47 1. Pet. 1.21 2. Cor 5.19.20 Psal 32 5. and 51.1.2 and 103.3 Dan. 9 17. Hos 14.3 and 2.19.20 Luk. 1.71 and 18.19 Act. 15.11 Christ and his Apostles testifie that this is specially to bee preâ—â—hed viz remission of sinnes in and through Iesus Christ This the faith of all the Sainâ—s through it haue respected euery part of the word hath in speciall manner respected craued embraced But that which is specially to be preached and belieued that which the faith of all the Saints hath alwayes in speciall manner respected desired craued and obtained that is the speciall obiect of Iustifying faith If at any time wee read a Gen. 15.6 that the beliefe of a temporarie promise was accounted for righteousnesse it is because it doth in belieuing the thing temporall apprehend him b Gal. 3.8.16 in whom all the promises are yea and Amen who is at least the remoued obiect of iustifying faith in euery thing it apprehendeth Thus Abraham belieuing the promise of seed did apprehend that blessed seed which had from the beginning beene promised Iohn 8.56 and saw his day Neither did he looke at the power of God but to sustaine his beliefe of a seed before promised against the temptations wherewith he w s exercised Expresse mention of the speciall mercy of God we finde not in the sermons of the Apostles but it doth euidently follow of those things which are preached by them For remission d Ps 103.3.13 and 130.3.4 Mic. 7.19 Titus 3 5. of sinnes doth presuppose the mercie of God and the speciall subiect of their preahing e Act. 2.38 and 4 1â— and 10.43 and 1â— 39. and 8.37 is remission of sinnes by and for the death and resurrection of Iesus Christ That which first pricketh and spurreth the soule to Christ that giueth vs to vnderstand what the soule principally reacheth at and receiueth in Christ But sinne and death vrge the soule for mercy and life to bee obtained pricke and spurre the soule to goe forth of it selfe and receiue Christ and rest vpon him as he is offered in the Gospell Popish obiections answered Therefore it principally layeth hold on the free promise of mercie couering sinne and deliuering from death The confession of
righteousnesse which is of God through faith For looke as nothing in a poore man can make him rich further then it doth get riches into his possession so nothing in vs sinners can make vs righteous to life further then it doth lay hold on such a righteousnesse which can take away sinne and make vâ— righteous to the receiuing of life eternall Faiâ—h is câ—lled the faith of Christ Gal. 2.16 because Christ is he whom faith doth apprehend and receiue to righteousnesse and life according to that of the Euangelist Iohn â— 36 1. John 3.12 13 He that belieueth on the Sonne of God hath life euerlasting That is the principall obiect of faith for which embraced and receiued by faith eternall life is giuen from grace Ioh. 6 47. 17.3 But eternall life is giuen of grace for Christ embraced or rested vpon by Faith a Ro. 10.10 11. Rom. â— 9 1. Cor. 15.3 To belieue Christ dead and risen as the Apostles taught him is true beliefe but that is not barely to belieue the historie of his Death and Resurrection but the fruits and benefits thereof and that wiâ—h the affiance It is so to belieue the Death and Resurrrection of Christ as thereby to looke for forgiuenesse of sinnes which is to put our trust in the speciall mercie of God through Iesus Christ This is plaine by the words of Martha for when Christ asked her Iohn 11.26 27. Doest thou belieue this that whosoeuer belieueth on me shall not die euerlastingly She answereth yea Lord I belieue that thou art Christ that is I cannot doubt but that those that cleaue to thee shall haue life euerlasting teaching that these confessions imply an affiance and trust of all good through him The Euâ—uch his profession was Acts 8.38 I belieue that Iesus Christ is the Sonne of God but the faith of this Eunuch waâ— a particular confidence of heart whereby he embraced Christ his Sauiour and belieued on him for his particular benefit and comfort Nathanael professed of Christ Iohn 1.49 50. that hee was the King of Israel that he was the sonne of God and so much in generall the Deuilâ— belieue and know Marke 5.7 Luke 8.28 was Nathanaels faith nothing but a bare perswasion that Christ was the Sonne of God yet it was a perswasion ioyned with affiance for he rested vpon him and so belieueâ— the promise of mercie in him God hath raised vp Christ to bee a Prince and Sauiour to giue repentance to Israel Acts â— 21 Rom. 8.34 and forgiuenesse of sinnes and to belieue Christ a Prince and Sâ—uiour raised from the dead and set at the right hand of the Father doth imply trust and affiance in him for forgiuenesse of sinnes and life euerlasting through the grace of God § 2. It is obiected §. 2. that to belieue the power of God is Iustâ—fying faith for our Sauiour required no more of the blinde man Math. 9.27 28. then to belieue that hee was able to heale him And the Leper seemeth to doubt of his will Marke 1.40 Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap. 8. but waâ— well perswaded of his power But it is one thing to looke vnto Christ for bodily health or to receiue a temporall blessing another to belieue in him to Iustification For the faith which Christ requires to Iustification is such a faith as doth acquite vs from our sinnes and doth procure vs righteousnesse But many were healed by our Sauiour that for ought can be proued were not acquited from their sinnes And if these blinâ—e men had only belieued that he was able to â—ure the malady of their eies notwithstanding this their faith their soules had beene vncured their sinnes vncouered Many that were cured of their bodily infirmities were also healed of their spirituall diseases not because they belieued his power to helpe them but because they relied vpon him as their only Sauiour And the testimonie it selfe sheweth that the blinde men belieued Christ to be the Messias in times past promised of the Father and now exhibited so that they might belieue to iustification Heb. 11.33 34 35. but their beliefe of his omnipotencie did not iustifie them The writer to the Hebrewes sheweth in diuers examples that by Iustifying faith some subdued Kingdomes other some stopt the mouthes of Lions certaine quenched the force of fire others escaped the edge of the sword c. All which things though temporall were atchieued by Iustifying faith which is the hand of the people of God to receiue good by but faith iustified not as it was occupied about or looked vnto these things but as it was carried to an higher obiect The healing of corporall diseases was a seale vnto vs Isay 53.4 Math. 8.17 that Christ is our deliuerer from sinne and death as the Scriptures testifie and our Aduersaries confesse and therefore in belieuing the mercie of God towardes them in healing of their diseases they might forthwith conceiue that of his free grace hee would be pleased to forgiue their sinnes which are the true causes of all our maladies Bellar. de Iustif lib. 1. cap. 9. It is againe obiected that in the Creed is contained the whole obiect of Iustifying faith But in it there is no mention of the speciall mercie of God In this obiection there is a two-fold mistaking for in the Creed is contained the obiect of faith which is belieued that is the summe of doctrine to be belieued to saluation is there explained But here we speake of the obiect of Iustifying faith by which we belieue The doctrine of faith is one thing the priuate act of the heart relying vpon the promises of mercie another Now when we enquire what is the obiect of Iustifying faith the question is not what is the summe of faith or of the articles to be belieued but what the faith of the heart in all these articles which it belieueth doth first and principally looke vnto rest vpon and receiue to saluation For when all Christians professe and historically belieue all the Articles of the Christian faith yet many are not iustified or saued because they belieue not as they ought whence it is euident that bâ—re assent to the Articles of Religion is not that faith which iustifie or sâ—ues but another of farre different nature is required if wee would bee pertakeâ—s of these blessings Againe verball mention of Gods speciall mercie there is not any in the Creed but really it is inâ—luded For to belieue in God is to depend vpon his mercie reaching to the pardon of our offences Ier. 31.33 Esay 25.9 33.22 To belieue in Christ is to relie vpon him as the authour of redemption reconciliation and peace with God which doth necessarily imply the speciall mercie of God And in the Creed we belieue the remission of sinnes which article cannot bee explained according to the doctrine of the Gospell without beliefe in the speciall mercie of God and confidence thereon
The conclusion is The Word of God is the generall obiect of Iustifying f ith the speciall promises of mercie and forgiuenesse in Christ Iesus is the speciall obiect of faith as it iustifieth § 3. This beliefe in the rich mercie of God frameth the Image of God in our hearts §. 3. Faith in Gods special mercy frameth his Image in the Heart and imprinteth the vertues of Christs death vpon the soule as by application the seale doth set it stampe vpon the waxe A man cannot walke in the Sunne but he must beare it hue no more can he belieue in the grace and mercie of God to the pardon of his offences but he must beare the Image of Gods mercie vpon his soule And so faith in Christ doth incite to the vniforme studious practice of pietie towards God who of his gracious free vndeserued loue and mercie is pleased to repute Belieuers as his Sonnes by adoption and compasse them with his fauours and of mercie kindnesse long-suffering forbearance forgiuenesse towards men looking to God for it patterne whom it must and ought to follow The Belieuer cannot put on Christ as a Iustifier but he must put on the bowels of mercies kindnesse humblenesse of minde meeknesse long-suffering forbearance c. and the closer he putteth on Christ vnto righteousnesse the moâ—e quicke and operatiue bee these graces of thâ— Spirit more liuely the operations theÌ„selues that issue from theÌ„ as quickned animated by that faith CHAP. VII Iustifying faith is a particular and certaine confidence resting vpon the mercie of God in Christ for pardon and forgiuenesse not an assured perswasion that our sinnes be alreadie pardon d and forgiuen §. 1. Iustifyi g f i th is a particular and certaine confidence § 1 IVst fying faith doth not onely belieue the promise of mercie in generall as that there is foâ—giuenes for them that lay hold vpon it but it relieth vpon the promise for our owne particular and dâ—pends wholly thereupon looking after no other helpe For trust or confidence importeth the application of some good to him that trusteth and so he that casteth himselfe vpon the promises of mercie drawes neere vnto Christ throwes himselfe into his armes and graspes about him with all his might Looke how the poore Infant affrighted with the apprehension of some danger clinges close to the parent for succour and defence or a man in danger of drowning layes hold vpon some willow that growes vpon the bank and hangs thereon for safetie so doth the soule pursued by the terrours of the Law and affrighted with the vgly sight of sinne flie with speed vnto Iesus Christ as hee is held forth in the Gospell hang vpon him and to die for it will neuer loose his hold For in him it apprehends plentifull redemption and out of him it knowes no succour is to be â—ound In this sence faith applyeth the promise of grace to a mans selfe in particular that is it particularly relieth vpon the grace of God in Iesus Chrâ—st to obtaine pardon and forgiuenesse Numb 21.9 Iohn 3.14 15. Euen as they that were stung with the fierie Serpents did come and looke to the brazen Serpent belieuing to find the healing of those deadly stings that were fastened in them Thus a soule stung with sin and feare of damnation commeth by faith to Christ relying on him trusting to finde in and through him cure of those deadly euils wherewith it is wounded If a Prince should offer a generall pardon to Rebels causing it to be proclaimed that if they would lay downe armes submit themselues and flie to his mercie they should be receiued to fauour and wee should see many heereupon cast downe their weapons and sue for mercy would wee not presently know that they belieued the promise that they should bee pardoned So when Christ saith to sinners come vnto mee or belieue on mee and I will ease you what faith thinke we haue sinners who resort vnto him Is it not a beliefe that he will according to his word deliuer them from sinne and death and restore them to life eternall If there bee a particular word or that which is equiualent then there is a particular faith But there is a particular word or that which is equiualent For the thirstie and barren soule that is stung with the terrours of the Law they that labour are heauie laden Math. 11.28 Esay 55.1 2. 1. Iohn 3.24 Iohn 3.16.36 Acts 10.43 13.39 Rom. 10.9 10. are inuited to come vnto Ch ist and exhorted intreated perswaded commanded to belieue the promise is Whosoeuer belieueth in him shall not perish but haue euerlasting life which is as much as Thomas thou art burdened and doest labour thou art wearie and thirstie come thou vnto mee behold I inuite belieue thou for vnto thee doe I reach forth the promise of mercie receiue it and thou shalt â—iue Foâ— the particulars are euer in their generals How can we proue Gal. 3.10 that Iohn or Iames are by nature vnder wrath and the curse otherwise it cannot be proued then thus Cursed is euery one that continueth not in all things that are wâ—itten in the booke of the Law to doe them How can we proue that Thomas or Peter are bound to loue the Lord and to abstaine from murther fornication theft but because it is said to all men Thou shalt loue the Lord Thou shalt not steale Deut 6.5 Iohn 7.37 c. And thus it is said to all Let euery one that is a thirst come vnto me and drinke Belieue in the Lord Iesus Acts 16 31. and thou shalt be saued whence euery thirstie and burdened soule may conclude I ought to bâ—lieue God calleth and commandeth me to belieue he hath giuen me his promise and offers mercie and belieuing I shall be saued The faith of true Belieuers goeth further then the faith of Deuils can doe But thâ—y may and doe belieue or know that Christ died in generall for sinners and that they shall be saued who belieue in him If Iustifying faith haue not in it some particular confidence then it is not opposed to despaire so as to expell it For things that will not endure the one the other most haue contrarietie as fire and water if the one doe not fight and driue forth the other then may they dwell together But true faith and vtter desperation cannot stand together Iames 1.6 Math. 6.30 1â— 31 Rom. 4.20 Heb. 10 2â— but doe expell each other Moreouer true faith in Christ doth breed confidence and boldnesse according to that Let vs enter with confidence and boldnesse through faith on him True faith therefore hath in it particular confidence in the grace of God For as nothing can make hot which hâ—th not heate in it selfe â—o can nothing make confident which after some manner hath not confidence in it To a Math. 1.20 2.20 John 17.8 receiue is to take in particular to a mans selfe or
remission of sinnes by the merits of Christ and resting vpon Chrâ—st alone for saluation assuredly he receiueth forgiuenesse â—lthough he be vexed with scruples and temptations and want the assurance and perswasion in himselfe that his sinnes bee remitted For faith is necessary to saluation but full assurance that I do belieue in that sort is not of lâ—ke necessitie And if a man may belieue vnfainedly who is not fully assured that he doth so belieue then faith may be certain in the euent when it is not certaine to the sence of the Belieuer §. 3. Faith as it iustifieth is a resting vpon Christ to obtaine pardon Zanch. de redempt lib. 1. c. 13. tit de Fiducia col 282. Musc loc com de Remiss Meisner dec 3. pag. 329. Par. in Gal. cap. 2. lect 24. Idem de Iustif l. 1. cap. 10. lect 227. Albizius exercit theol ar 2. 8. ad 3. Hom. Of faith part 1. August conf art 4. art 20. Bohemic conf art 6. § 3. But what faith is necessarie to wit on mans part to Iustification Is it an assured perswasion of our particular election or that our sins be alreadie pardoned and forgiuen No It is one thing to rest on Christ obeying to the cursed death of the Crosse that I may obtaine pardon and life euerlasting from the grace of God which is the act of true beliefe required to Iustification another to belieue that I am one of Gods particular elect people and that my sinnes are pardoned and done away which is a priuiledge of grace granted to him who belieueth is sealed by the Spirit and knoweth assuredly that he belieueth It is not an action of Christian faith preuious or fundamentall to Iustification for a man to belieue himselfe to be one of Gods elect for wee come to know our election by the effects thereof as Faith Iustification Sanctification Wee must first reade the effects of Gods loue in our hearts and see that he hath wrought in vs the sauing graces of faith loue hope feare c. and sealed vs by the spirit of promise before we can come to know his eternall decree and purpose towards vs therefore the beliefe of our particular election is an act of faith following Iustification not precedent to it No man is iustified by belieuing himselfe to be Iust nor pardoned Gallican conf art 20. Belgic confes art 23. Bolton walking with God pag. 320. Pemble plea for Grace pag. 258. 259. 260. Rolloc de Iustificat Heming Syntagm Gradus ad conuersionâ—m 49. Gal. 4.6 Rom. 8.15 16. by belieuing that he is pardoned but if his beliefe be true he must be truly Iust before hee can or ought to belieue himselfe to be Iust and actually pardoned before hee can be assured that he is pardoned This is the order of spirituall blessings conferred vpon vs in Christ Faith is the band wherby wee are vnited vnto Christ after Vnion followeth Communion with him Iustification Adoption Sanctification be the benefits and fruits of Communion Being made sonnes by faith God sends forth the Spirit of his Sonne into our hearts crying Abba Father and this Spirit beareth witnes with our spirit that we are the children of God assurance or certaine perswasion that our sinnes be pardoned followes this witnesse of the Spirit as the fruit and effect thereof In which it is most manifest that faith in Christ is before Iustification in order of nature though not in time and Iustification is precedent to the sense feeling of remission and therefore that belief which is required on our part to IustificatioÌ„ cannot be an assurance that our sins be pardoned already vnles the same thing be before after it selfe a man be pardoned before he belieue or assured that he is pardoned before it bee granted or that act of faith which cannot be but in a person alreadie iustified must go before the pardon of sin Esa 1.16 17 18 Ezek. 18. â—1 Prou. 28.13 Math. 6.14 15. Acts 16.30 31. Iohn 6.29 11.25 Acts 10.43 Acts 16.18 The promise of remission of sinnes is conditionall and becommeth not absolute vntill the condition be fulfilled either actually or in desire and preparation of minde This is the word of grace Belieue in the Lord Iesus Christ and thou shalt bee saued when doth this conditionall proposition become absolute when we belieue What that our sinnes are pardoned No but when we belieue in Christ to obtaine pardon which is the thing promised vpon condition of beliefe Assurance that our sinnes bee pardoned is concluded in a practicall Syllogisme thus He that truly belieueth in Christ hath obtained pardon of his sinnes But I belieue Therefore my sinnes are pardoned where assurance of the pardon of sinne is a conclusion drawne from a two-fold ground the one expressed in Scripture the other euident if true by the testimonie of the renewed conscience and presupposeth that hee belieueth and is assured that he doth belieue Now if assurance of remission be concluded from this ground that he belieueth and knoweth certainly that hee belieueth then the beliefe which is required on our parts to Iustification cannot be an assurance that our sins be washed away alreadie For if we take the word belieue for a perswasion that our sinnes are done away then the Syllogisme runneth thus He that is assured of the pardon of his sinnes his sinnes are pardoned But I am assured of the pardon of my sinnes therefore my sinnes are pardoned Faith receiueth the pardon of sinne as it is profered in the word of grace and groundeth it selfe solely and immediately vpon the promise of God in Iesus Christ But the ground whereupon a sinner in himselfe guiltie should build assurance that his sinnes are pardoned without some other act of faith comming betwixt the promise that assurance there is none The Gospell offereth pardon to the thirstie and burdened if hee will receiue it assureth them of pardon who haue embraced the promise but where shall wee finde ground whereupon the guiltie person who belieueth not to remission of sinnes may bee assured that his sinnes not actually pardoned are yet pardoned and blotted out of Gods remembrance Faith taketh the pardon presented to it in the word of promise and trauailing with it bringeth forth actuall remission of sinne which vpon our faith we receiue Assurance is not before pardon nor actuall remission before faith vnlesse the effect be before the cause and the same thing be both cause and effect To beâ—ieue in Christ to saluation is to receiue him Iohn 1.12 Heluet. confess art 15. But to receiue Christ as hee is offered vnto vs in the Gospell is not to be assured that our sinnes are alreadie pardoned in and through Iesus Christ but to rest vpon him for pardon Before the act of iustification faith hath for obiect this proposition concerning the future To mee belieuing my sinnes shall bee forgiuen but after the promise is receiued and pardon obtained Par de Iustific lib. cap.
of faith because it is immediately reuealed and expressely written But I belieue this is certaine by the testimonie of the renued conscience to him that hath proued himselfe to be in the faith The conclusion therefore I shall be saued is certaine by faith because it is inferred of one thing belieued and another that is euident And although the holy Ghost not tying himselfe to termes 1. Ioh. 4.13 and 3.14 and 5.13 Rom. 6.8 doe somtime call it knowledge yet calling it againe belieuing alone or belieuing and knowing it is manifest such a knowledge is intended as not only flowes from the principles of faith but also is reduced to the same habite For with what other eyes can the soule behold the heauenly light of the Gospell How shall that confidence assâ—rance or certainetie which is created by the mixture of the light of the Scripture with the light of a good conscience renued by the holy Ghost belong to any humane knowledge when the Scripture saith expressely The promise of the Spirit is receiued by faith and wheâ—esoeuer in all the Byble Gal. 3.14 the Gospell is reuealed men are called vpon to belieue And if there be granted a certainetie of a mans owne speciall standing which certainetie arises from the Scriptures one ground thereof being a proposition or sentence immediately diuine the other inferred and concluded from that which is diuine it must bee granted also that it is a worke or effect of faith The Scripture reports how many of the children of God were tried by mocking and scourging Heb. 11.36 by bands and imprisonment they were stoned hewen asundder tempted they wandered vp and downe destitute and afflicted All which the Apostle saith They did by faith and confidence of the promises and yet their assurance was no other nor otherwise begotten then the ordinarie assurance of all Gods children which is concluded by ioyning the light of their conscience kindled by the holy Ghost and ruled by the Scriptures to the immediate light of the conditions reuealed in the Scriptures Faith which is belieued or the doctrine of faith is written in the word of God the holy Scriptures but faith whereby wee belieue or of the heart is written engrauen rooted in the heart out of the word of God by the holy Ghost and knowne not belieued by the testimonie of the renued conscience enlighned by the Spirit and directed by the word for the rule by which a man discerneth himselfe to belieue is the doctrine of Gods word declaring the qualitie of Faith And the certainetie or assurance which a iust person hath of his particular Iustification depends vpon the right application of two propositions one immediately diuine and ertainely belieued Whosoeuer belieueth in Iesus Christ shall bee saued the other inferred and concluded from hat which is diuine certainely knowne according to the direction of the word But I belieue § 2. This assurance is not such §. 2. What maner of assurance is obtained as whereby a man is made absolutely out of all doubt but such as many times is assaulted and shaken with many difficulties feares and doubts which notwithstanding aâ—ise from the the nature of faith as if it ought to bee but from the frailtie and corruption of our euill nature by reason whereof faith is not such as it ought to be It is not the office of faith to cherish and maintaine such feares and doubts but to resist them to fight against them and so much as is possible to expell them and drâ—ne them out But yet by reason of the strength of our naturall corruption and the weakenesse of our faith wee attaine not to this and how much the weaker our faith is so much are wee the further from it Againe the dayes of faith are as the seasons of the yeare sâ—me faire some foule one while a Sun-shine summer another while a long and tedious winter sometimes no more but a storme and away Our eyes are not alwayes alike intent to the word of God we doe not alwayes alike conceiue the promises of God nay temptations sometimes hide them out of our sight The effects of grace doe not alwayes appeare the same yea sometimes they seeme to bee quite ouerwhelmed which containe effects And in nature it selfe there is a voluntarie shrinking and relinquishing of the comfort of faith through the seeds of vnbeliefe that originally are sowen in vs. §. 3. § 3. The particular certainetie of remission of sinnes and eternall saluation which Iust persons attaine vnto vpon their Repentance Faith and Obedience is not equall in certaintie and firmenesse of assent to that assurance which they haue about the common obiect of faith to wit concerning the articles of Creation Incarnation Resurrection or the like because these articles are totally and immediately reuealed in holy Scripture but that his sinnes in particular are remitted depends vpon an Argument whereof onely one part is immediately the word of God and the other a collection arising vpon reflection and obseruation of a Man 's owne qualities and actions and the conclusion is more or lesse certaine according to the condition of the second proposition It is a thing more certaine and euident to faith that God gaue Christ to die for sinners that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue life euerlasting then it is to my conscience that I belieue with well-rooted and al-seasoning confidence I haue greater assurance that God is faithfull and true then that my heart is vpright Therfore I haue greater assurance that the true belieuer shall bee saued then that I my selfe am receiued vnto mercy Albeit faith doe sometimes stagger and wander as touching the very principles themselues and immediate word of God yet because the truth and certainetie thereof is more easily and better conceiued they are for the most part more familiarly and readily belieued But the conclusions because of themselues they are vnknowne and haue their light only from the principles are not so firmely apprehended as the principles themselues whilest doubts haply may bee cast least there bee any error committed in the application and vse thereof It is a principle deliuered for assurance of saluation Belieue in the Lord Iesus Christ and thou shalt bee saued Hereupon the faithfull man inferreth to himselfe I belieue in the Lord Iesus Christ therefore I shall bee saued In this either confusedly or expressely inferred he comforteh himselfe and reioyceth in God and in hope thereof chearefully serueth God calleth vpon his name in patience expecteth the reuealing of his saluation And yet oftentimes it falleth out that hee questioneth his faith and not seeing such effects thereof as he supposeth there ought to be maketh doubt lest haply he be deceiued and though the principle be true by which he first belieued yet hee is iealous lest he haue misapplied it to himselfe § 4. This will appeare in the seuerall states or sorts of true Belieuers §. 4. The seuerall states of Belieuers Esay
they can make no actuall claime to the promises of eternâ—ll life The seeds of grace abiding in them they still retaine their right and title to eternall life to be giuen of free and vndeserued grace but they are suspended from actuall claime vntill they rise againe by true repentance and then they recouer not a new right or title but a new claime by vertue of the old title For it is the perpetuall ordinance oâ— God that if his children str ke out of the way by sinne they m st rise againe and renue their faith and repentance before they can haue any sound or true hope of saluation There can be no Christian assurance which doth not fully consent and accord with these and such like passages of holâ— S ripture Psal 66.18 Ezek. 18.4 If I regard iniquitie in my heart the Lord will not heare me The soule that sinneth shall die Know yee not that the vnrighteous shall not inherite the kingdome of God Be not deceiued neither fornicatours 1. Cor. 6.9 Eph. 5.5 Col. 3.5.6 Reu. 21.8 nor idolat rs nor adulterers nor effeminate nor abusers of themselues with mankinde Nor theeues nor couetous nor drunkaâ—ds nor reuilers nor extortioners shall inherite the kingdome of God If therefore a godly man as Dauid tu nâ— asi e into sinne of this kinde hee can haue no assurance of mercie till this iniquitie bee broken off by vnfained repentance For faith cannot receiue what the word of grace doth not promise Isay 1.16 Pro. 28.13 1. Ioh. 1.6.7 But pardon of sinne is promised to them onely that confesse and forsake their iniquitie that forsake all sinne in habit delight and indulgence grosse sinne vtterly and vpon good aduice § 13. The raigne and absolute dominion a Rom. 6.12.13.14 of sin doth vtterly exclude grace and hee that is so guiltie §. 13. The absolute raigne of sinne will not stand with the state of grace hath nothing in him that can cry or call for pardon or forgiuenes In whom sinne hath this dominion he as yet is vnder b Ioh 3.36 Deut. 9 24 Mat. 7.23 Num. 15.30 the curse of the law and the wrath of God abideth on him for the presence of grace infused is a necessary qualificato the pardon of sinne and where sinne doth beare such sway as to shut forth whatsoeuer in vs should intreate mercie it doth him vp vnder wrath Were it possible for a man regenerate which shall neuer befall them that are called â—ccording to the purpose of God after grace receiued to sinne wilfully with full consent delight and contentment to the vtter extinguishing of the Spirit of grace or finally to abuse any extraordinary measure of inherent grace by indulgence to knowne sinnes secret or open he should fall from the state of Iustification and be called to a strict account as well for all his former sinnes as this abuse of his talent § 14. Assurance of saluation if true §. 14. True assurance breeds resolution and care to please God 1 Ioh. 3.22 is euer ioyned with a religious and conscionable desire to walke before God in all well-pleasing and to doe the things that are acceptable in his sight and assured standing in grace depends vpon a like certaintie of not continuing indulgence to knowne offences or grosse negligence in repenting or bewayling secret sins Where this priuiledge is possessed the heart is most tender and sensible of sinne most watchfull to shunne and auoide whatsoeuer is displeasing vnto his Highnesse greiued with holy indignation for former loosenes and vntowardlines Luk 7.47 1. Ioh. 4.19 Cant. 5.8 and 8.7 1. Pet. 1.8 Psal 103.1.2.3 1. Cor. 14.1 Col 3.1.2 Phil. 3.9 there flourisheth vnfained loue to God for his mercie and to the brethren for the Lords sake sound humilitie and free submission to the Lords will and commaunde in euery thing sincere and continuall thankefulnesse to God for all his gifts both in prosperitie and trouble health and sickenesse holy couteousnes after spirituall things ioyned with sound delight in the word of God and base account of all things in comparison of Christ holy and reuerent admimiration to see his state thus changed from so low a depth of miserie to so great an height of glory Psal 4.6.7 and 63.3 1. Pet. 1.8 Act. 8.39 Rom. 5.4 Ier. 9.23 sweete contentment ioy vnspeakeable with continuall care and constant resolution to better his obedience and mercifull zealous desire both by edifying speech and godly example to draw on and build vp others in faith and godlinesse How can it be conceiued that a man should be assured of the pardon and forgiuenesse of many and great offences committed by him but it will worke a greater loathing and detestation of sinne vnfained abasement for former wickednesse continuall watchfullnesse to keepe himselfe pure ardent loue with inward ioy that cannot be expressed How can a man be perswaded that greater happinesse is giuen him of God then all the world is worth that more sinnes are pardoned him then he hath haires on his head the least whereof is sufficient to plung him into the nethermost Hell but hee must needs loue the Lord who hath gratiously looked vpon him in his distresse reioyce with ioy vnspeakeable and glorious and keepe continuall watch against the baites and allurements of sinne that hee loose not his comfort nor dishonour God who hath done so great things for him The Malefactour is glad of his Princes pardon specially of his Highnesse fauour whereby he is aduanced into great honour and dignitie When the Iewes heard of the proclamation of King Cyrus by which they were set free from their long and tedious captiuitie they were rapt with ioy and wondring Psa 126.1.2 that they were like to men that thinke they rather dreame then indeede possesse the thing that their soules longed after how much more will certaine assurance that we are set free from the perpetuall bondage of sinne and restored to the euerlasting freedome of righteousnesse and life make vs wonder at the infinite wisedome and vnspeakeable goodnesse of our Heauenly Father The Saints considering the goodnesse of God towards Man in his creation breke forth into holy admiration Psal 8.4.5 Ioh. 7.17 Psal 144.3 Lord what is man that thou art so mindfull of him The Prophet calling to Minde long after what God had done for his soule in deliuering him from the terrour of death and power of the graue cannot passe it ouer without feruent thankes and praise Psal 116.12 What shall I render to the Lord for all his benefites towards me And when Peter came to himselfe and saw indeede that he was deliuered from the tyrannie of Herod from the deepe dungeon and bitter death prepared for him he entred into a religious and thankefull admiration of the great power and mercie of the Lord Act. 12.11 saying Now I know for a truth that the Lord hath sent his Angell and hath deliuered mee from the
or next cause alwayes terminates the resolution The one imitâ—tes the other inuerts the order of composition In the first acceptation the first veritie or dâ—uine infallibilitie is that into which our faith is lastly resolued For this is the first step in the progresse of true beliefe the lowest foundation whereon any Religion can be built But in the second acceptation as wee alwayes take those tearmes when we resolue our owne perswasions that is for a resolution of all doubts or demands concerning the subiect whereof we treate A Romane Catholiques faith must according to his Principles finally bee resolued into the Churches or Popes infâ—llibilitie For this is the immediate ground or first cause of any particular determinate point of Christian Faith and the immediate is alwayes that into which our perswasions concerning the effect is finally resolued seeing it can satisfie all demands doubts or questions concerning it It will not helpe them to colour ouer the matter and say God reuealing diuine truth is the formall obiect of faith For seeing God worketh mediately and reuealeth no truth vnto vs but by externall meanes and diuine authoritie in it selfe is hidden and vnknowne therefore the thing whereinto our faith is resolued must be something externally knowne which we may reade or heare And our Aduersaries must lead vs to secret reuelation which in words they pretend so much to defie or yeeld vs an externall foundation and formall obiect of faith And reiecting the Scriptures whatsoeuer they glose in wordes they neither can nor doe name vs any other indeed but the Romane Pope and Church Nor will it boote them ought to say that Gods Word in the Churches mouth is the rule of faith whereinto it is finally resolued seeing the Church defines nothing but by Gods written or vnwritten For this is more then the partie which belieues it can know nor hath he any other motiue to belieue it besides the Churches definition or assertion Suppose then wee should conceiue so well of a temporall Iudge as to presume hee did neuer speake but according to the true meaning either of statute or customarie law yet if wee could not know either the one or the other or their right interpretation but only by his determinations the law were little beholden to him vnlesse for a floute that should say he were resolued ioyntly by the Iudge and it For seeing the Law is to him altogether vncertaine but by the Iudges auouchment or interpretation his last resolution of any act of Iustice must be only into the Iudges skill and fidelitie It is true indeed that the Churches authoritie is not comprehended in the obiect of beliefe whilest it only proposeth other Articles to be belieued No more is the Sunne comprehended vnder the obiect of our actuall sight whilest we behold colours or other visible things by the vertue of it But yet as it could not make colours or other things become more visible vnto vs vnlesse it selfe were the first visible that is vnlesse it might bee seene more clearly then those things which we see by it so we would direct our sight vnto it so would it be impossible the Churches infallible proposall should be the reason of a Romane Catholikes beliefe of Scriptures or their orthodoxall sence vnlesse it were the first and principall credible or primarie obiect of his beliefe or that which must bee most clearely most certainly and most stedfastly belieued so as all other Articles besides must be belieued by the beliefe of it Nor is this proposall of the Church necessarie to the first plantation of faith only but to the growth and continuance of it as well after faith is produced whilest it continues as whiles it is in planting §. 3. God Christ not the Church and Saints is the only obiect of all true confidence trust Esay 26.34 Psal 130.5 6 7 22.5 Prou. 3.5 Iohn 14.1 1. Pet. 1.21 Rom. 3.22 Psal 2.12 Ier. 17.5 § 3. But to leaue this misterie of Romish iniquitie and to returne to the matter the authoritie of the Church is not the ground of Christian faith but the holy Scriptures and faith resteth not vpon the Saints but vpon Iesus Christ God and Christ is the obiect of confidence according to the Scripture God as the authour and parent of all good things of whom are all things and wee in him Christ as the onely Mediatour of God and Men by whom are all things and we by him or by whom God bestoweth vpon vs all sauing blessings and by whom we come vnto God They are accursed who make the arme of flesh their stay and trust in man in whom there is no helpe or power The present faith of Belieuers hath the same obiect with the faith of Adam after his fall Abel Abraham Noah Dauid the Virgin Marie all the Patriarches Ephes 4 4. Heb. 13.8 Prophets and Apostles For faith is one in obiect and kind though different in number and degree But the confidence of Adam Abel Noah Abraham c. was exercised about or directed vnto God in Christ not set vpon any Saint Abraham and the rest who liued before and vnder the Law belieued in the Messias to come The Apostles and all the faithfull since belieue in Christ alreadie come But in nature the obiect of their faith is one and the same Our Aduersaries confesse thus much Bellarmine proues Christ to bee God Bellar. de Christ lib. 1. cap. 5. because it is written of him Blessed are they that put their trust in him And the Scripture saith he teacheth euery where that wee must put our trust in the true God alone The Romane Catechisme teacheth Catech. Rom. part 1. cap. 11. q. 19. that wee belieue the holy Church not in the Church by which diuers forme of speâ—king say they God the Creatour is distinguished from things created Rhem. annot in Rom. 10.14 But the Rhemists in defence of their Saint-inuocation are driuen to say that wee are to trust in the Saints departed and that the Scripture vseth also this speech to belieue in men Exod. 14.31 2. Chron. 20.21 as They belieued in the Lord and in his seruant Moses Belieue in the Lord and yee shall bee established c. This is their first pretence whereby they seeke to couer their Idolatrie whereas they might easily haue knowne that the vulgar and the Seuentie both translate these places Deut. 28.66 Iob 24.22 Esay 33.15 1. Sam 27.12 Iohn 3.5 They belieued Moses and belieue his Prophets and not they belieued in Moses Belieue in his Prophets And it is certaine the preposition here added in Hebrew doth not euer answere to In in our language What that it is no lesse then blasphemie to say that the Israelites were commanded to put their confidence in Moses and the Prophets either as the principall authours and parents of any good or as Mediators betwixt God and them by and through whose mediation they should obtaine all good things spirituall
like in all To some is giuen a greater measure of faith to others a lesser faith is more strong in this Christian more weake in that There is a great faith and a little faith a strong faith and a weake faith All liuing trees in an Orchard be not of one growth or fruitfulnesse All men bee not of one stature estate or age but some high some low some rich others poore some strong to labour others that must be borne or held vp by the armes and so it is in the Church of God amongst Christians All good ground is not equall in yeelding fruit Faith perfect in none 1. Thes 1 7 8. Compared with 1. Thes 3.10 1. Tim. 1.5 Phil. 3.15 some returnes an hundred-sold some thirtie-fold Such perfection of faith is granted to no man in this life that neither he nor any other can be more perfect therin The faith of all the elect is sincere the faith of some perfect in comparison of others but absolutely the greatest faith is imperfect Iustifying faith supposeth imperfection and is it selfe imperfect in vs so long as wee liue in this world It is imperfect extensiuely in regard of things to be belieued and intensiuely in respect of confidence wherewith wee belieue in Christ Wee know nothing as we should of those things which we know and many things we are ignorant in 1. Cor. 13.12 Marke 8 24. which we should know We are like the blinde man whose eyes now opened began to see men like trees Looke as children know not at all many things they come to know afterward so wee and looke as they doe not fully know those things which they know but superficially so is it wiâ—h vs in heauenly matters Hence our confidence cannot bee perfect Psal 9.10 For those who know God best trust him bâ—st those who dimely know him his goodnesse and truth they can but weakly belieue on him In speculatiue knowledge pertaining to discourse they may farre excell who come short in confidence but in certaine distinct practicall knowledge they are most excellent that with most liuely affiance doe cleaue vnto the Lord. Againe the mysteries of faith are so profound that in this life we cannot attaine vnto the vnderstanding of them fully and perfectly 2. Cor. 10.15 2. Thes 1.3 Ephes 1 17 18. 4.29 Col. 1.9 10. but haue need to pray daily that the eyes of our Minde may be opened that wee may more fully conceiue of the things that pertaine to the Kingdome of God And if our eye bee dimme in sight our hand is feeble in receiuing For our will is as much corrupt as the vnderstanding and it is easier to discerne the truth then firmely to embrace it against all oppositions The darknesse of Minde is an impediment to full and perfect knowledge the corruption of will which is neuer wholy remoued in this life is a stop and let to perfect confidence Faith groweth and encreaseth by degrees which is an argument Rom. 1.17 that in this life it neuer comes to the highest pitch of perfection For that which is alreadie compleate in degree needeth no augmentation What Belieuer is there who findes not a continuall combate of faith against many temptations arising from his natiue ignorance infidelitie diffidence Psal 73.1 2. 30.6 7 8. the wisdome of the flesh his owne sence and feeling c. which assaults against faith from within doe argue the weaknesse as the resistance of them demonstrates the the truth of faith The tree is knowne by its fruit and the goodnesse of a cause by the effects it produceth But the fruits of faith are imperfect as loue ioy and holinesse The faith of Abraham was great and excellent but not perfect in degree Hee was strong in faith and doubted not of infidelitie but of infirmitie he doubted His faith remained inuincible though often assaulted but now and then it was shaken §. 6. The faith of the weakest Christian is sufficient to saluation § 6. The strongest faith is imperfect but the measure of faith is so diuided by diuine prouidence that to none who are called according to his purpose is giuen lesse then what may suffice to their saluation The measure of faith containeth this in it that it bee a sufficient portion for euery one God in his wise prouidence giueth the greatest measure of faith to them who are to vndergoe the greatest combats Ht hath appointed some for the example of others and in them hee propoundeth to the world certaine tokens of his glorie and vertue and therefore he bestoweth vpon them a more abundant measure of faith not that they might acquire by it more saluation but that they might singularly serue for the illustrating of the glory of God and be an helpe comfort and support to the weake In the bodie humane the bones haue more strength then the flesh not that there is more life in them but that they might sustaine the weake flâ—sh so here There is no member of the bodie so weake if it be endued with the Spirit of life which is not as well a true and liuely member of the bodie as they which are better and more excellent so the weakest Belieuer is a liuely member of Christ as truly as they that are more strong in faith § 7. The degrees of true and liuely faith §. 7. The degrees of faith may bee considered according to the diuers growth which God bringeth his children vnto and the diuers measure of grace which God bestoweth vpon them according to the time wherein they haue been trained vp in the schoole of Christ the meanes God hath vouchsafed for their building forward their experiments of his loue and their care to vse the meanes and imploy their talent God giueth not the same measure of grace to all Belieuers all be not of equall standing in Christs schoole nor of equall paines to improue what they haue receiued nor liue vnder like powerfull meanes of grace and enioy like helpes of increase in strength In nature no man wonders to see a growne man stronger then a new borne babe a plant set in a mellow and fertile garden thriue faster then thâ—t which groweth in a more barren soyle a Merchant that is warie and industrious to imploy his stocke to increase more then hee that is remisse an old beaten Souldier to bee more expert then one who hath newly put on his armour In grâ—ce the same holds good for faith thriueth according to the time meanes experiments and one we take to improue our talent and preserue our faith The degrees of faith may fitly bee drawne into foure Heads For there is a weake faith as it were in the tender bud Foure degrees of Faith a faith somewhat growne vp strong faith and full assurance Faith is weake foure wayes First in knowledge 1. Weake when a Belieuer is but a babe in vnderstanding ignorant of many profitable things needfull to bee learned and practised Faith
better stature Who would bee poore that might be rich weake that might be strong who would liue in feare and care that might rest confident and secure who would walke pensiuely that might continually reioyce and triumph A weake faith will bring to saluation but a strong faith is necessarie for a Christian that he may ouercome with more ease fight more manfully endure with patience and obey with chearefulnesse The least dramme of faith is more precious then gold that perisheth better then the whole world who that knoweth the price and value of such a iewell would not desire and labour to be furnished with it and grow rich therein In earthly things a full estate pleaseth best in heauenly shall we be coÌ„tented to lâ—ue from hand to mouth scarce that when we might with better allowance enioy plentie All liuing things haue an appetite to seeke and desire nourishment for increase vnto perfect stature in their kind Herbs and plants sucke iuyce out of the earth new borne babes d sire the mother breast All true graces are still growing from a gram of Mustard seed to a great tree Math. 13.31 32 liuely faith doth couet increase from feeble state to better growth from growth to strength from strength to full assurance § 9. Faith somewhat growne is §. 9. 2. Somewhat growne when the Belieuer is better acquainted with the doctrine of saluation giueth more full absolute and vnlimited assent to the word of truth then formerly cleaueth faster to the promises of mercie in Iesus Christ is better stablished in the practice of godlinesse and hath obtained some setled boldnesse and confidence at sometimes though he be still ignorant of many priuiledges which he might enioy and of which he might be assured by the grace bountie of the Lord yea through weaknesse hee wauereth often doubteth againe and againe and becommeth like the smoking flaxe Strong faith excelleth the former in certaine knowledge firme and full assent 3. Strong liuely confidence ioyned with sincere purpose and resolution of vnpartiall and constant obedience This Belieuer is better acquainted with the promises of God temporall and spirituall to relie vpon them hee can wrestle earnestly in prayer is not discouraged if for a time his suite be denied will take no repulse is couragious in dangers sharpened by difficulties Math. 15.28 8.10 walketh on constantly in a godly course and holdeth the confident assurance of his saluation more strongly and hath it more vsually then the two former But yet he hath not learned in euery state and thing so to liue by faith but that he is often shaken and troubled with his corruptions distracted with cares and kept vnder with other incumbrances more then hee need if hee had attained to that measure of faith which in this life many haue obtained by the gift of God 4. Full assurance Coloss 2.2 Rom. 15.14 Coloss 1.23 Rom. 4.20 Psal 27.1.23.4 Iob 13.15 Ester 4.14 Full assurance is when the Belieuer hath obtained full assurance of vnderstanding in the mistery of God and of the Father and of Christ and assuredly belieueth in Christ for saluation and is certainly perswaded that all other promises spirituall and temporall do belong vnto and shall bee made good vnto him in due season though in appearance all things goe cleane contrarie and readily followeth the Lords commandement though repugnant to flesh and bloud crosse to carnall reason contrarie to earthly pleasure and contentment Gotten by degrees 2. Cor. 1.7 This degree of faith is not gotten at once nor at first ordinarily but by degrees after good time and continuance in the vse of the meanes after many experiences of Gods loue and fauour after manifold tryals and combates and the long continued practice of holines many neuer attaine vnto it in this life but it is the dutie of euery Christian to labour after good establishment and full assurance in the faith Heb. 6.11 Col. 2.11 The Benefits of full assurance As faith is more excellent so are the fruits that issue from it The stronger our faith the more firme and close is our vnion with Christ A weake belieuer is as truely knit to Christ as the strong but not so neerely and fast The increase of faith makes our Communion with Christ more sweete and comfortable then before For the more stedfastly we belieue the clearer apprehension haue we of the remission of all our sinnes the more vertue and strength draw we from Christ to kill and crucifie our corruptions the greater is our peace and ioy in the sence of Gods speciall fauour and the more constantly inioyed with an increase thereof Rom. 15.13 1. Ioh. 1. â— Rom. 5 1.2.3 Heb. 10 22. Eph. 3.12 Mat. 15.28 and 9.29 and 8.13 Fulnesse of faith breeds fulnesse of peace and ioy which passeth vnderstanding The firmer our faith the more free is our accesse with boldnesse and confidence to the throne of grace the more feruently and confidently can wee pray Abba Father the better successe doe wee finde in prayer and the more quietly doe wee waite till the vision come for it will come and will not lie Assurance of faith doth inable with more ease to ouercome the world to contemne the pleasures of sinne to possesse the soule in patience in hard and â—sore pressures to curbe vnruly passions to tread Satan vnder feete to breake through all worldly difficulties and to runne with chereafulnes the race that is set before vs. The weake belieuer creepes forward in the way to Heauen but it is with much difficultie He hath much adoe with himselfe hee is perplexed with feares frightned with troubles discouraged with want of meanes he is wearie feeble panteth maketh many a stand and slippeth now and then It is farre better with him who is setled stablished and rooted in the knowledge and loue of the truth and is assured of Gods mercie hath interest in all the promises of grace and can lay actuall claime vnto them For hee contemneth the temptations of multitudes customes examples he dispiseth the offers of profits pleasures honours esteeming it greater riches to suffer affliction with the people of God then to enioy the pleasures of sinne As for reproch trouble persecution he shrinkes not at them for his heart is fixed and trusteth in the Lord. Heb. 12 2. Act. 20.24 Psal 27.3 Act. 7.59 In dangers he is confident through meanes of deliuerance appeare not because he seeth in God who is inuisible and resteth vpon his faithfull promise that cannot deceiue His affections are seasoned his heart is in Heauen his loue to God is stronger then death life it selfe is not deare vnto him that he may finish his course with ioy If at any time hee tread awry through ouer-sight or infirmitie the stronger is his faith the sooner doth he arise againe renue his repentance and embrace the promises of mercie afresh Let vs then striue to attaine vnto the best measure of faith and to
encouraging our selues to striue against feares or shutting our eyes against the euidences of grace that God hath bestowed vpon vs or m stâ—king what the testimonie of the Spirit is whereby God witnesseth to vs that wee are his children For whiles wee take it to be some vocall testimonie which certifyeth vs against feares and doubts euen in the middest of temptations and in a manner whether wee will or no we fall into no small perplexities Oftentimes God causeth his Children to seeke long before they finde comfort 2 Cor. 12.8 not finding any such certificate in our selues whereas the witnesse of the Spirit is cleane of another nature This is no new thing that God should cause his children to seeke long before they find comfort The Apostle in like extremitie besought the Lord thrice that is often before hee receiued answer And though God delay either to chasten neglects or to kindle affection or that graces hardly obtained may be valued according to their worth yet will he not alwayes despise his children that cry vnto him day and night The ardent desire shall at length bee satisfied the panting soule bee refreshed with the waters of consolation Comfort and ioy is the reward of our obedience but patient waiting is a pleasing and acceptable seruice to God It is Gods worke to giue comfort it is our dutie to waite for it in the wayes of holinesse Let vs bee contented to serue God freely without wages and in the end we shall be no loosers Remission of sinnes and peace of conscience are fauours worth waiting for If the Lord should keepe vs on the racke euen till the last gaspe and then impart vnto vs the least drop of his mercie or sence of his loue in Iesus Christ his grace were vnspeakeable towards our soules let vs not then thinke much to waite in patience a little while We haue not waited so many yeares in the meanes of grace for comfort as God hath waited for our conuersion If wee haue made him to stand knocking at the doore of our hearts long before wee gaue him entrance let it not seeme tedious if the Lord doe not forthwith open to vs the doore of his priuie chamber admit vs to the sweete fellowship and communion with him Comforts when they come are vsually proportioned to the measure of tribulation and multitude of feruent prayers powred out before the Lord. Much trouble receiues in the end plentifull consolation § 12. Satan molesteth some Christians with feare of of falling into some fearefull extremitie §. 12. 13. They are afraid of falling into some fearefull extremitie How this temptation is to be resisted Luk. 22.32 Rom. 8.24.35 Phil. 1.6 Rom. 11.29 Psal 37.24 By which temptation it pleaseth God to acquaint men with their owne weakenes and to chasten or preuent pride securitie rash censuring of others that haue fallen into such discomforts or the like But for the remedie thereof let them labour to fortifie faith in the gracious promises which God hath made to his children of sustentation perseruation As faith increaseth so feare abateth as it ebs so feare flows And let them to this end consider that Christ hath prayed for preseruation against all seperating extreames And God that cannot lie hath promised to keepe his children from vtter declining and to establish them that be feeble and readie to fall The Lord hath made it knowne to be his will and pleasure that hee will neuer take away that grace which once he hath giuen but increase it rather till it be perfected and accomplished and when we are assured of his will wee may relie vpon his power for the effecting of it and inferre he will keepe vs safely because he is able to estabish and confirme vs. The greater our weakenesse is in grace and the more grieuous our sicknesse through sinne and the noysome humours of corruption the more carefully will he watch ouer vs with his Almightie power The strong cannot stand by their owne might if God withdraw his hand and the weakest shall bee able to ouercome their mightiest enimies being vnderpropped by the Lord. What flouds of trouble soeuer doe flow ouer vs wee shall escape drowning if the Lord hold vp our chinne Feare is a deceitfull and malitious passion tyrannicall rash and inconsiderate proceeding oftentimes from want of iudgement more then from the presence or approach of euill to be feared tormenting with the dread of what shall neuer come we were neuer in danger of It is therefore valiantly to be resisted not to bee belieued or reasoned withall Feare in our owne strength is by all meanes to bee cherished but diffidence in Gods power mercie goodnesse truth and prouidence is to bee abandoned The strong must not presume in himselfe though more excellent then others in grace nor the weake distrust in the Lord though feeble and not able to goe high-lone The hope of preseruation staying vpon inherent grace is selfe confidence and the feare of falling arising from the sence of weakenes is diffidence in God In holy Scripture we shall finde that the strongest haue fallen when the weake haue stood and they haue beene foiled most grieuously not in the greatest assaults but when they haue giuen way to their lusts neglected their watch or were growen secure and dreaded no danger The Lord best knowes the strength of his childe and will not suffer him to bee ouertaken with those vncomfortable falls out of which he shall not recouer § 13. Sundrie Christians through the malice of the §. 13. 14. They shall neuer hold out to the end Deuill bee vnsetled with feares that notwithstanding all their care they shall neuer hold out in faith and an holy course of life vnto the end but by persecutions or other afflictions and prouocations shall bee turned backe specially considering that they are maruellous apt to slip and coole in time of peace and whilest they liue vnder the meanes of grace This feare is to be remoued by calling to Minde the promises of God so plentifully and richly set downe in the word of grace How this temptation is to be remooued And they must consider that the same God who keepes them in time of peace and blesseth the meanes of grace whilest they doe inioy them is able and will vphold them in the time of trouble and when meanes be wanting of our selues wee stand not at any time by his power wee may ouercome at all times And when wee are sorest assaulted he is euer ready at our right hand to support and stay vs that wee shall not fall Psal 16.8 Hee hath well begun and shall happily goe forward in his worke who hath in truth begun For true grace well planted in the heart how weake soeuer shall hold out for euer All total decaies come from this that the heart was neuer truly mollified nor grace deepely and kindly rooted therein And as for present weakenesses it is good to acknowledge bewaile theÌ„ Luk.
8.13 but they must not for some imperfections cast downe themselues halfe desperately as though God regarded them not or they should wither and vtterly decay For as the drie and thirstie ground or spunge sucketh vp much water so the humble spirit drinkes vp much grace and shall be replenished abundantly with the waters of comfort And if their portion of grace be the smallest of all others they must striue to grow forward but without discouragement For of small beginnings come great proceedings of one little sparke a mightie flame of a small Acorne a mightie Oake of a graine of Mustard-seed a great tree and a little leauen seasoneth the whole lumpe All feares and doubts which arise in their hearts must driue them to send vp earnest prayers to God daily and oft for this grace of faith to bee more firmely rooted in them which they must doe willingly anâ— gladly that they may feele their doubting and feare to vanish as fast as they perceiue their hold in the promises of God to waxe stronger § 14. Satan beares many in hand that their manifold crosses and troubles in the world §. 14. 15. They are many wayes crossed and afflicted and their want of outward blessings is an argument of Gods displeasure towards them This was the fierie dart which he by the mouthes of Eliphas Bildad and Tzâ—phar yea of his owne wife did shoote at Iob against all which if hee had not held out the shield of faith he had beene pierced through and through And we see by daily experience that when a godly Man is crossed in his wife children goods reputation these outward afflictons are often great occasions of deadly sorrowes and grieuous temptations touching the assurance of his owne saluation The remedy is To thinke seriously and to acquaint our selues familiarlie with the properties of God the truth Remedie vnchangeablenesse and nature of his promises Outward crosses are no arguing of Gods displeasure Iob. 5.17 Pro. â— 12 Iam. 1.12 Heb. 12.7.8.9.10 11.12 and the manner of his dealing with others of his seruants in his wonderfull prouidence For thereby we shall learne that God doth loue tenderly when he doth correct seuerely and remaineth vnchangeable when our outward condition doth varie and alter yea that all his Chastisements are but purgatiue medicines to preuent or cure some spirituall disease which hee seeth wee are inclined vnto Should God neuer minister physicke till we see it needfull desire to take it or bee willing of it alas wee should perish in our corruptions and die for want of helpe in due time It is good to humble our selues when god correcteth but to doubt of his loue when he dealeth louingly with vs is a great weaknesse Also we should call to minde that God allowes yea requires that men in affliction should liue by faith both for a sanctified vse in them and a good issue out of them in due season And so afflictions or earthly encumbrances would bee no meanes to weaken our faith but to increase it rather § 15. Some godly persons by the subtle and cruell malice of the Deuill are brought to this bondage §. 15. 16. They are strongly possessed with feare that God hath vtterly cast them off that they are perswaded that they are vtter reprobates and haue no remedy against their desperation And this temptation enough of it selfe to shake and terrifie the afflicted is made farre more grieuous when Melancholie possesseth the partie for that raiseth excesse of distrust and feare and causeth the partie to perswade himselfe of miserie where there is no cause In this weakenes Satan assailes such poore seruants of God by spirituall suggestion tempting them to such sinnes as be very strange and such as they abhorre the very least conceit of them and when by such temptations they are brought low in the anguish and bitternes of their soules the Deuill laboureth especially to dimme their knowledge and iudgement that they may haue no sure hold of any point of doctrine which may soundly comfort them that so he may as a roaring Lyon deuoure them speedily And when hee hath couered their hearts with darkenes and brought them into a dreadfull feare of Gods wrath hee holdeth them at this vantage that euery thing which is before them is made matter to encrease their distressed estate For the stay and comfort of such distressed soules How Christians in this distresse and anguish are to be comforted they are to be perswaded that they bee not vnder the wrath of God neither is his anger kindled against them for all the feare that oppresseth them when their estate is in their owne feeling at the worst because they haue not sinned against the holy Ghost nor malitiously set themselues against the truth and Gospell of God nor persecuted it wilfully against knowledge and conscience which one sinne onely is able to shut them out from all hope of saluation And here they must beware they make no more sinnes of that kinde then God himselfe hath pronounced to be of that sort for in these matters that concerne Gods Religion euen the perfection of our wisdome is but folly much more our sicke braines and melancholicke vnderstanding is to be remoued farre from handling such holy things And seeing their consciences doe beare them witnesse how much these temptations are repugnant to their desires and liking how gladly they would be freed and deliuered from them how grieuous and burdensome they are vnto them and chiefly raised by Satan who abuseth their simplicitie therefore there is no cause why they should bee so discouraged or out of heart no more then one that hath had a fearefull dreame when he awaketh Moreouer they are with all earnestnesse to be put in minde yet with the spirit of meeknesse and compassion and to consider how much it doth displease God that they are remoued from their faith and haue giuen place to conceits and spirits of errour contrarie to the most cleare and comfortable promises made them that thirst repent feare and loue the Lord tremble at his word are broken-hearted c. Rom. 8.28 Iames 1.12 Esay 66.2 And therefore they should gather more godly boldnesse and confidence in God on the one side and more courage and strength against Satan on the other side For if God call and incourage vs to trust and relie vpon him and we standing in need thereof would most gladly embrace his promises made in Christ Iesus who is hee that should hinder vs The Scripture speaking of the malice of Satan in tempting and assailing Christians biddeth them Bee strong and of good courage Ephes 6.10 12. 1. Pet. 5.8 9. resist strong in the faith Sathan tempteth them to ouerthrow their faith and by giuing place to feares and doubts they aduantage the enemie against their soules but let them take occasion by the temptation to draw nigh vnto God and rowse vp themselues more confidently to rest and waite vpon the Lord so shall they please
of his people but from such extraordinary examples wee may conclude that God will bee with vs in the fire and in the water to deliuer or comfort vs Psal 91.15 Esay 43.2 2. Cor. 4.8 7. to succour or support vs that wee shall not be forsaken much lesse ouercome Also in the practice of the seruants of God we may learne our dutie for whatsoeuer they did vpon common grounds and reasons pertaining to vs no lesse then vnto them that dutie belongeth vnto vs as wel as vnto them and their example is for our imitation Phil. 3.17 Pro. 2 20. Speciall Commandements by priuiledge giuen to some peculiar persons belong not vnto them who haue receiued no such warrant but if the immediate ground be common the dutie it selfe reacheth vnto vs. Beiâ—g acquainted with the Word if wee would liue by faâ—th we mâ—st exercise it aright therein and that conâ—isteth in diuerâ— acts First Faith doth firmely and vniuersally assent to the whole Word of God The acts of Faith Acts 24.14 and set a due price and value vpon it as that which containes the chiefe good of Man The Gospell is that pearle of price in comparison whereof the merchâ—ndise of siluer and gold are of no worth Secondly It ponders the Word seriously and treasures it vp safe Earthly men keepe the conueyances and assurances of their Lands very circumspectly Math. 13.45 46 lay vp their bils and bands write vpon them know when they expire and what to challenge by them The promises of God vnto the faithfull soule are insteed of all assurances Psal 119.11 bils and bands for his liuelihood maintenance protection assistance deliuerance comfort and euerlasting happinesse therefore hee is carefull to view them often lay them vp sure meditate vpon their stablenesse and certaintie and cast with himselfe what profit comfort they will bring in fittest season Thirdly It preserueth and keepeth in the way of the promises it perswadeth inciteth and strengthens therein All the promises of God are free his fauours of meere grace but this free fauour is in speciall bequeathed vnto the penitent meeke humble vpright that walke in the vndefiled way and doe none iniquitie and faith in these promises expecting the Lords helpe al-sufficient in due season carrieth a man forward in the path Pro. 19.16 Psal 119.1 2 3. wherein hee shall find rest and peace and will not bee turned out of the right way then which it acknowledgeth none safe or pleasant Fourthly It plies the throne of grace with earnest and continuall supplications intreating helpe and succour according vnto promise Faith hearkeneth what the Lord speaketh and speaketh backe againe in feruent groâ—nes and desires It hath the promise of God 2. Sam 7 27. and therefore is bold to pray and will not keepe silence Fiftly It looketh vp directly vnto God his wisdome power mercie and faithfulnesse If meâ—nes bee present faith beholdeth Gods hand in them if meaneâ— bee wanting the eye is lifted vp vnto the Lord who can prouide meanes or worke without meanes and against meanes and most certainly will performe what he hath promised when it shall be for our good Psal 5.3 My voice shalt thou heare in the morning O Lord in the morning will I orderly addresse vnto thee and will looke out Sixtly It resteth quietly obseruing the effects of Gods promises and triumpheth before the victorie Psal 13.5 I haue trusted in thy mercy my heart shall reioyce in thy saluation But of these more at large in the particulars following Meanes to stir vp our selues to liue by faith Now for the better stirring vp of our selues to liue by faith First Wee must find and ferret out the Infidelitie that lurketh in our bosomes condemne it and make it odious Ah how is my heart fallen by vnbeliefe Find out thy vnbeliefe What a masse of infidelitie harboureth in my breast O Lord I am grossely ignorant of thy wayes doubtfull of thy truth distrustfull of thy power and goodnes disobedient to thy Commandement Thou hast giuen rare and excellent promises in thy holy Word but I enquire not after them reioyce not in them cleaue not vnto them in truth and stedfastnes settle not mine heart vpon theÌ„ make them not mine own keepe them not safe that I may know what to challenge by them prize them not according to the worth and value of the good promised Because by a ciuill faith men belieue men therefore they seeke to get their securitie and if they haue a man of credit his word for what was desperate they are glad If they haue bonds or specialties they boxe them vp they know when they expire what to challenge by vertue of them they will doe nothing that may be preiudiciall to themselues therein But as for the promises of life made in thy Word I seeke them not build not vpon them hide them not carefully in my heart cast not seriously with my selfe what good I may assâ—redly looke for by vertue of them keepe them not continuâ—lly in thought to cut off all carnâ—ll reasonings and dâ—stractions am not wary to preuent what may bring preiudice to my soule and state Thou threatnest in thy Word but I doe not feare am not carefull to decline sin Who is so hardie as to thrust his finger into the fire But I haue suffered my selfe often to bee carried aside with lusts through vnbeliefe How many wicked motions haue I entertained what sinfull passions haue I nourished how vainly rashly wickedly haue I spoken though I haue bin warned by thy Word of threatning to the contrarie True and righteous are thy precepts according to which thou hast commanded me to walke But I haue followed the customes examples and traditions of men the suggestions of Satan and allurements of the World Lust and pâ—ssion haue oft come betwixt my heart and thy holy precepts whereby I am turned aside from the straite way of peace I can find small rellish and sauour in the Word of life I digest it not feed not vpon it hunger not after it am not changed into the nature of it I receiue not the truth or it abides not in me for substâ—ntiall nourishment I belieue no further then I see feare no more then I feele start aside in temptation The Symptomes of vnbeliefe are euident Symptomes of vnbeliefe From this root springeth that vnmeasurable deadnesse that presseth downe If a man of authority threaten with racke or gibbet I quake and feare but when I heare the Iudgements of God denounced against my sinnes I am scarce moued at all From this ariseth impatience murmuring discontent vnquietnesse when outward things are wanting Psal 78.19 21 22. Numb 14.27 For did the heart cleaue fast vnto God it would rest quiet in his promise if all other things were lacking Selfe-confidence resting in meanes and leaning vpon them as lands riches Rom 10.3 Ier. 17.5 Psal 40.4 52.7 Phil. 3.3 Ier. 9.13 fâ—iends c. are effects
of vnbeliefe Hee that reioyceth in Christ Iesus can haue no confidence in the flesh As wee grow downe denying our wisdome and all strength wee can make so doth faith in our great God grow vp as we swell or be puffed vp in conceit of our wisdome or strength so doth faith languish or decay So much as the heart stayeth vpon the creature it is by sinne with-drawne from the Creator But my heart is much poysoned with selfe-sufficiencie I feele my selfe apt to leane vpon mine owne deuices to presume vpon mine owne strength and so wickedly to depart from God If meanes be at hand I grow secure forgetting that further then God doth send forth his Word they can doe nothing If meanes be wanting I faint or at least am greatly distracted not remembring that it is all one with God to saue with many as with few with small or no meanes as great If I enioy the things I would I thinke much vpon the meanes ascribe little to Gods blessing my affections do worke more liuely on this or that which fell out as men speake more luckily then on the blessing of God which is all in all In any matter of weight concerning liueli-hood or state I am readie to plod what friends I can make what meanes be present what likelihoods of good successe and here I rest not seeking to the Lord Prou. 29.26 though all iudgement come from him But if this or that requisite in my iudgement cannot bee obtained though I be neuer so diligent seeke neuer so earnestly still I distrust and suspect the euent saying in heart that it cannot proue well And when my desire is accomplished the meanes are still in mine eye I thinke my selfe indebted to such or such friends neuer able to requite their kindnesse when the chiefe cause vpon whom all things depend is much forgotten not affectionately remembred In trials I am very tottering and like a poore creeple who leaneth vpon his crutches easily brought to the ground when sensible helpes are taken away Carnall delights Math. 6.30 Iohn 12.43 5.44 Math. 14 31. Marke 8.16 17. couetousnesse loue of praise double diligence about eâ—rthly things and excessiue care these are euill accidents of this disease Did we possesse the spiâ—ituall comforts of the Word the heart could neither couet nor take pleasure in the transitorie things of this life Did wee assuredly belieue that our Heauenly Father will prouide for vs wee would not disquiet our selues with troublesome thoughts about liuing maintenance and successe of our labours But ah how is my heart taken vp with distracting cares drawne away with carnall pleasures and aspiring desires after great things If riches increase I reioyâ—e in them if troubles or crosses come on my head is wholly busied about them I can keepe no measure in casting discoursing contriuing how things will goe The many thoughts that I spend about these things to no purpose vpon no occasion doe more then sufficiently conuince the earthly distemper of my heart Partiall obedience indulgence to any sinne sleightinesse in the performance of holy duties and rashnesse in the vndertaking of ordinary workes without feare reuerence and due consideration is the euill fruit of vnbeliefe For the strength of faith is vniforme it fighteth against all sinne feedeth vpon the dainties that God hath prepared for them that loue him and teacheth in naturall and ciuill actions to hold Christ that his Spirit may guide vs in the doing of them But I haue beene too fauourable to boisterous passions euill lusts vaine rouings idle speeches neglect of holy duties I haue prayed without intention feruencie or care to speed I haue heard the Word but not attended vnto it with diligence not laboured to get it into possession nor to be changed into the nature of it I haue feasted without feare or thankfulnesse I haue laid me downe to sleepe and risen againe not minding the promise of God who giueth sleepe to his beloued not acknowledging him who is my liâ—e and the length of my dayes nor fearing the grin that is set for me in euery creature and businesse of this life What shall I say O Lord I haue sinned against thy goodnesse power mercy and truth against the Mediation and bloud of Christ 1. Iohn 5.10 He that beliâ—ues not in God â—akes him a liar then which what can be more reprochfull Hee that resteth not vpon Christ maketh his bloud of none effect then which what is more abominable To feare the threats of Man to rest on his Word to obey his Commandements when the will and pleasure of God is neglected what is this but to rob Goâ— oâ— his glory and set vp Man in his roome or steed If a great Man should threaten would I not bee carefull to decline his wrath Shall my God threaten and I be secure and carelesse If I haue a mans word or bond that is of worth I write vpon the matter as if I had it Shall I not ioyfully rest in the word seale and oath of my God If a Man of great place should bee asked a pawne and not credited on his word he would take it in euill part what a shame is it that I should not beliâ—ue God further then I haue his caution The seruants of Noblemen attend on their Lords pleasure at an Inch come at their call goe at their command doe euery thing exactly that is giuen them in charge What wretchednesse is this in me that I haue obâ—yed the Lord by the halues beene sleightie in his worshâ—p most negligent where all diligence is no more then duty most praise-worthy As I haue dishonoured God Titus 1.15 Esay 7.9 Numb 20.12 Luke 1.20 so I haue hurt mine owne soule If it were not for vnbeliefe nothing could harme mee this doth all the mischiefe for it reiecteth the medicines which taken would cure all maladies and pulleth off Gods pla sters which lying on would salue our miseries it defileth our best workes doubleth the bitternesse of crosses pulleth downe many iudgements vpon vs disinableth in the combate against Satan is the nurse of spirituall idlenesse and hindreth the sweetnesse of all holy duties It were iust with thee Deare Father to cast mee off for euer and giue me ouer to the vanitie of mine vnbelieuing heart I haue drawne backe from thee by infidelitie Heb. 10.38 39. cleauing to the lusts of the flesh and allurements of the World trusting in vaine deuices and thou mightst iustly forsake me vtterly for this mine hypocriticall starting aside from thy testimonies O Lord I am not more full of infidelitie by nature then of my selfe vnable to remoue it vnto thee therefore doe I lift vp my soule O tame in mee the fiercenesse of infidelitie and teach mee to belieue as thou hast commanded then shall I cleaue vnto thee inseperably waite confidently on thy saluation and serue thee chearefully as long as I liue Thus are we to find out and make infidelitie odious Secondly We must
mentioned and answered before Now if any poore and weake Christian desire to know as he desires nothing more how he should stirre vp himselfe to belieue the promise of forgiuenes when he wants the comfort of it yea when to his owne sence he feeles the contrarie First he must vnfainedly humble his soule before God in the confession of sin with earnest prayer for pardon For he that acknowledgeth his sins shall be receiued into fauour Ier 3.13 O Lord I haue sinned and thou art iustly displeased I haue cast off thy law and thy wrath is kindled against me My heart trembleth at the apprehension of thy sore dispeasure and I am afraid of thy iudgements All this is come vpon me by reason of my foolishnesse Psal 38.5 my smart and sorrow is bred in mine owne bosome I haue no rest in my bones because of my sinne Psal 38 3. But deare Father I looke vnto thee for mercy in Iesus Christ I beseech thee take away the transgression of thy seruant 2. Sam. 24 10. It is thy propertie to shew mercy it is thy free promise to pardon the iniquities transgressions and sinnes of thy people that turne vnto thee and pray for thy Names sake be fauorable to mine iniquities and remember my sin no more cast them behind thy backe Exod. 34.6.7 1. Reg 8.33.34 Isa 43.25 and 44.22 Isal 38.17 Mic. 7.18 Psal 52.2 doe them away as a mist and burie them in perpetuall obliuion I haue gone astray like a lost sheepe but now my desire is to returne home vnto thee With my whole heart I desire thy fauour O suffer mee not to perish vnder the burden of my sinne Remember not to my reuoltings from thy Commandements but according to the multitude of thy tender compassions remember me for thy goodnesse sake O Loâ—d Truth it is I am not worthy to be called thy sonne or to be pertaker of the least crumme of thy mercy But thou art a most louing and compassionate Father who dealest not according to the iniquities of thy children that trespasse against thee Num. 14.19 Psal 103.10 nor rewardest them according to their deserts who retainest not thine anger for euer because mercy pleaseth thee If thou wilt be mercifull to my sin then shall thy glory appeare my heart shall bee enflamed with thy loue I shall walke in thy feare and my tongue shall sing of thy goodnesse Secondly He must rowse and stirre vp himselfe to belieue with reasons drawne from the promises and couenant of God made in Iesus Christ considerations taken out of the Word and experience of his dealing with other his seruants in former times Psal 4â— Why art thou cast downe O my soule why art thou disquieted within mee Trust in God and cast thy burthen vpon him for hee will ease thee Math. 11.28 Esay 55.1 2. Mic. 7.19 Psal 65.3 Psal 85.2 Esay 1.18 2 Cor. 5.19 20. 1 John 3.23 Thou hast his promise confirmed by oath and couenant that hee will cast thy sinnes into the bottome of the Sea purge away thy transgressions foâ—giue thine iniquities couer all thine infirmities and neuer remember them any more Behold hee perswadeth intreateth beseecheth commandeth thee to belieue why art thou afraid It is the will of God that thou shouldst rest on his mercy hee cannot bee offended for that which himselfe commandeth nor denie that which he hath promised Rom. 5.20 Eph. 5.2 1.7 If sinne abound mercie shall abound much more His burning wrath is pacified in Iesus Christ who hath giuen himselfe an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweete smelling sauour that grace might glorifie herselfe in the pardoning of thy offences Hast thou nothing to bring before him but sinne and impietie that hee abhorreth Hee looketh vpon thee in his deare Sonne Iesus Christ Rom. 3.25 Hosea 14.3 whom hee hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his bloud and loueth freely Doest thou require testimonies of his vndeserued kindnesse God so loued the world Iohn 3.16 that he gaue his onely begotten Sonne that whosoeuer belieueth in him should not perish but haue euerlasting life Esay 54.8 Ezek. 16 60. He hath entred into a free and euerlasting couenant with thee and waited long for thy conuersion when thou wentest astray and will he not much more haue mercie vpon thee now thou prayest Why art thou dismayed at the sight of thy great vnworthinesse Miserie is the obiect of mercy Acts 9.11 the greater thy distresse the more glorious will bee the grace of God in thy deliuerance The baâ—er thou art in thine owne sight the fitter to belieue for faith excludes all conceite of worth and receiueth pardon as a meere gift of grace Sinfull men whose compassions are not as the drop of a bucket to the huge Ocean if compared with the infinite Sea of mercie which is in our God must forgiue their Brethren till seuentie times seuen times Luke 17.34 if they sinne against them and repent Our God who requires so much of vs who haue nothing but what he giueth will hee not deale tenderly with the poore soule which hath sinned and repenteth God hath done more for vs then for shame we could desire before we asked any thing at his hand yea when wee sought to excuse our disobedience and charge the fault vpon his Highnesse what will he not doe when we accuse our selues and pray for mercie My soule nothing can hurt thee but vnbeliefe Thou art wounded by sinne Belieue in Christ and by his bloud thou art healed God is angry Belieue and thou art reconciled All variance ceaseth when thou art knit vnto Christ Wherefore shake off dâ—strust hearken no longer to the assaults of Satan but roll thy selfe vpon the Lord and sticke fast vnto his mercie If thou want the sence of his loue thou hast his promise that hee will be good vnto thee cleaue vnto it aboue all thou canst feele see or comprehend O my God I will trust in thee though thou shouldest kill me I will belieue thy fauour when thou frownest vpon me and expect comfort when I lie groaning vnder the heauie weight of thy displeasure Thou causest man for a time to possesse the sinnes which thou hast pardoned and I will belieue the pardon of my sins when thou seâ—mest to set them in order before my face Thirdly Hee must bee instant with the Lord to giue him both strength of faith and the sight of his beliefe that he may know he doth belieue vnfainedly Giue me Gratious Father to belieue as thou commanded mee to relie vpon thee Thou stretchest forth thy hand in loue and offerest rich treasures of goodnesse to them that lay hold vpon them create in mee the hand of faith that I may effectually receiue what in mercy thou reachest forth The knowledge of faith is of thee as is the gift it selfe giue me the Spirit of reuelation that I may discerne truly what thou hast giuen me
in part which may bee increased by a daily addition to the graces and comforts of the Adopted why should I be negligent to seeke it confirmed and sealed Euerlasting life is the only true life full of ioy peace and contentation a durable treasure which can neuer fade a crowne that neuer withereth and shall base things take vp the heart when God calleth to seeke a most glorious and euerlasting inheritance Oh the inestimable loue and fauour of God who makes offer of an Adoption and immortall Inheritance to the most contemptible wretches that liue vpon the face of the earth The man that toiles hard all day long for a small piece of siluer or lies at the rich mans gate waiting for an Almes the scraps that come from his Table he is inuited to come vnto Christ that hee might obtaine a kingdome an eternall kingdome that hath none end an inheritance abundantly glorious surpassing the glory worth of all earthly treasures inheritances laid together much more then all earthly treasures doe exceed the worth of one pin What an heart-break is it to a man when he finds that by some default he hath forfeited some earthly matters which he might haue held had he bin warie but what griefe and confusion will this cause when he shall see that through folly sloth carelessenesse matchlesse crueltie vnthankfulnesse he hath lost an euerlasting inheritance of glory which he might haue obtained Meere possibility of coÌ„passing some great extraordinary good is of more weight in swaying mens actions inciting endeuours then certaintie of accomplishing pettie desires But certainty coÌ„modity do here concurre in one There is no good to the possession of eternall life no successe certaine but this that he who vnfainedly belieueth in Christ shal inherit the crown of glory It is good for me to draw nigh vnto God and put my trust in his mercy to lay fast hold vpoÌ„ the promises of life protectioÌ„ to get the spirit of Adoption whereby we cry Abba Father and fly vnto his grace in Christ to get my title made sure and strengthned vnto my conscience and while time serueth earnestly to seeke the kingdome of God Thirdly Wee must pray earnestly that God would increase our faith seale vs by his Spirit lead vs in the way of peace cause vs to grow vp in holinesse make vs wise to prize and value to tast and relish the ioyes of Heauen and assure our consciences of right and title to that euerlasting inheritance For it is God that sealeth vs and makes vs to read the sealing that promiseth Heauen and affecteth the heart with the goodnesse and worth of the thing promised that by the pledges of his fauour and the earnest of his Spirit doth sufficiently testifie our Adoption and cause vs certainely to apprehend what he doth testifie and assure As the beginnâ—ng so the progresse comfort and assurance of life is from him and instantly is to be begged of him Faith receiueth the promise of life and giues assurance of what is receiued as it prayeth Who am I O Lord that thou shouldst make such ample and free promises vnto thy poore seruant concerning his euerlasting happinesse Of thy free mercy and according to thine owne heart hast thou spoken all these great things to make thy seruant know them And now O Lord God establish I beseech thee the word that thou hast spoken concerning thy seruant gratiously accept me for thy childe by the earnest of thy Spirit and pledges of thy fauour seale vnto me the promised inheritance and make me assuredly to know what great things thou hast done and what those hopes be which are reserued for me in Heauen My sight is dimme not proportioned and fitted to so high an obiect my affections carnall that I cannot set my selfe to purpose about this contemplation the Deuill labours nothing more then to keepe me hood-winked this way O Lord I beseech thee inable mee to know this good and blessed hope the matter of mine inheritence abundantly glorious that my heart may bee still in Heauen and by thy Spirit lead mee into all truth and holinesse 1. Thess 2.12 2. Thess 1.12.14 that in due time I may possesse the Kingdome of glory whereunto I am called Col. 1.5 Of thy free grace thou hast called me by the Gospell to this blessed hope which is laid vp for me in Heauen therefore is thy seruant bold to entreate the sence of thy loue the knowledge of this Hope the increase of grace and assurace of thy mercie for euermore Fourthly Wee must quicken our selues to reioyce in God waite patiently and walke chearefully before him Oh the incomprehensible loue and fauour of the Lord. Was it euer found that any man of rancke or place did adopt the blind lame deafe dumbe or otherwise deformed to be heire to succeed him in his inheritance My soule reioyce thou in the Lord and blesse his holy Name for he hath looked vpon my base estate and visited me with mercy from on high Of a stranger and forreiner I am made a free denizon of the new Ierusalem of the bondslaue of Satan the friend of Christ of the childe of wrath and damnation the sonne of God and heire of saluation My Name is registred in Heauen an eternall weight of glorie is reserued which the most righteous God hath promised and in fittest season will giue vnto me Why should I doate on earthly braueries who haue an eternall life that hath most excellent glory honour riches and happinesse aboue all the heart can comprehend ioyned with it prepared and giuen through faith in Christ It were notable basenes if an heire of sumptious and stately pallaces should couet the poore cotages of beggars that stand by the high way side Psal 16.5.6 The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup thou maintainest my lot The lines are fallen vnto me in pleasant places yea I haue a goodly heritage My studie and care should be to know my heauenly hopes better and more fully that I might weane my selfe the more willingly from all earthly vanities Heauen is my home my hope mine inheritance and where should my heart be but where my treasure is where my thoughts but where my hope is In this life I receiue only the first fruites of the Spirit the earnest of the inheritance but I will waite patiently for the full possession thereof and walke charefully in the way that leadeth thereunto In earthly things men are contented to waite for a good lease in reuersion and to lay out their money for that which shall not come to their hands till some liues be expired and should not I waite for the accomplishment of glory there being but one life betwixt it and mee and that is mine owne CHAP. V. What it is liue by faith touching the promises of of perseuerance and how to stirre vp our selues therevnto GOd of his infinite mercy hath made further promises the necessitie of
his seruants so requiring God hath made many promises of perseuerance that his mercie shall neuer depart from them that hee will confirme and strengthen them to the end notwithstanding their owne weaknesse and the malice of their spirituall enemies and that nothing shall seperate them from the loue of God which is in Christ Iesus Gen. 3.15 This is implied in the first promise which God made It shall bruise thy head and thou shalt bruise his heele where Satan is stinted to the heele of the true Christian seed In many passages of Scripture the same is most clearely and manifestly expressed Psal 1.3 Psal 92.13 14. He shall be like a tree planted by the riuers of water that bringeth forth his fruite in his season his leafe also shall not wither and whatsoeuer he doth shall prosper The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord and he delighteth in his way Though he fall Psal 37.23.24 hee shall not be vtterly cast downe for the Lord vpholdeth him with his hand For this God is our God for euer and euer Psal 48.14 Psal 73.24 Verse 26. he will be our guide euen vnto death Thou shalt guide me with thy councell and afterward receiue me to glory My flesh and heart faileth but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for euer The mercie of the Lord is from euerlasting to euerlasting vpon them that feare him Psal 103.17 A good man sheweth fauour and lendeth Psal 112.5.6 hee will guide his affaires with discretion Surely he shall not be moued for euer Psal 125.1.2 the righteous shall be in euâ—rlasting remembrance They that trust in the Lord shall bee as mount Zion Esay 42.3 which cannot be remoued but abideth for euer A bruised reede shall he not breake and the smoaking staxe shall hee not quench Esay 46.4 And euen to your old age I am he and euen to the hoare haires will I carrie you Esay 54.10 I haue made and I will beare euen I will carrie and will deliuer you For the mountaines shall depart and the hils be remoued but my kindnesse shall not depart from thee neither shall the couenant of my peace be remoued Esay 59.21 saith the Lord that hath mercy on thee As for mee this is my couenant with them saith the Lord My Spirit that is vpon thee and my words which I haue put in thy mouth Rom. 9.8 Gal. 4.28 shall not depart out of thy mouth nor out of the mouth of thy seede that is such as be effectually called according to the purpose of God Hereunto may be added those passages which testifie that the loue which God beareth to his people is an euerlasting loue and the couenant which he hath made with them effectually and shall be kept assuredly is an euerlasting couenant Ier. 31.3 The Lord hath appeared of old vnto me saying yea I haue loued thee with an euerlasting loue therefore with louing kindnesse haue I drawne thee In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment but with euerlasting kindnesse will I haue mercy on thee Esay 54.8.9 saith the Lord thy Redeemer For this is as the waters of Noah vnto mee for as I haue sworne that the waters of Noah should no more goe ouer the earth so haue I sworne that I would not be wroth with thee nor rebuke thee Behold the dayes come saith the Lord that I will make a new Couenant with the house of Israel and with the house of Iudah Ier. 31.31.32.33 Heb. 8.8.9 and 10 16.17 Not according to the Couenant that I made with their Fathers in the day that I tooke them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Aegypt which my couenant they brake although I was an husband vnto them But this shall bee the couenant that I will make with the house of Israel After those dayes saith the Lord I will put my Law in their inward parts and write it in their hearts And they shall be my people and I will be their God And I will giue them one heart Ier. 32.38.39.40 and one way that they may feare me for euer Heb. 13.20 for the good of them and of their children after them And I will make an euerlasting couenant with them that I will not turne away from them to doe them good but I will put my feare in their hearts that they shall not depart from mee Heb. 8.10 In which couenant or Testament God freely promiseth to giue what hee requireth of his people and to effect in them what he calleth for at their hands If the benefits giuen be compared amongst themselues one is as it were a coÌ„dition to another but they be all effects in respect of the grace and free fauour of God certainely conferring them vpon whom he will Righteousnes and life are promised vpon condition of faith but the condition of the couenant is promised in the couenant it selfe A new heart also will I giue you and a new spirit will I put within you Ezek 36.26 27 and I will take away the stonie heart out of your flesh And I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walke in my statutes and yee shall keepe my iudgements Hos 2.19.20 and doe them And I will betroth thee vnto me for euer yea I will betroth thee vnto me in righteousnesse and in iudgement and in louing kindnesse and in mercies I will euen betroth thee vnto me in faithfulnesse and thou shalt know the Lord. The externall betrothing by outward couenant so as God betrothes himselfe to all professing the true faith Rom. 9.24 25. 1. Pet. 2.8 9 10 Math. 7.24 25. may be broken for though God offer them mercie if they will belieue yet hee giues not faith to them but the internall by effectuall disposition of which the Prophet speaketh in this place is indissoluble Whosoeuer heareth these sayings of mine doth them I wil liken him vnto a wise man which built his house vpoÌ„ a rock And the raine descended and the flouds came and the winds blew and beat vpon that house and it fell not for it was founded vpon a rocke But all the faithfull are built vpon the rocke not vpon the rocke now and anone vpon the sand Math. 16.18 but once built vpon the rocke they remaine vnmoueable Thou art Peter and vpon this rocke I will build my Church and the gates of Hell shall not preuaile against it assaile it they may preuaile against it they shall not Iohn 10.27 28 29. Ezek. 34.15 16. My sheepe heare my voice and I know them and they follow me And I giue vnto them eternall life and they shall neuer perish neither shall any man plucke them out of my hand My Father which gaue them me is greater then all and no man is able to plucke them out of my Fathers hand Who shall seperate vs from the
loue of Christ Shall tribulation or distresse or persecution or famine or nakednesse or perill or sword Rom. 8.35 37. Rom. 11 29. Nay in all these things we are more then conquerours through him that loued vs. The gifts and calling of God are without repentance Blessed bee the God and Father of our Lord Iâ—sus Christ who according to his abundant mercy hath begotten vs againe vnto a liuely hope by the resurrection of Iesus Christ from the dead To an inheritance incorruptible 1. Pet. 1.3 4 5. and vndefiled and that fadeth not away reserued in Heauen for you Who are kept by the power of God through faith vnto saluation ready to be reuealed in the last time 1. Iohn 3.2 Beloued now we are the sonnes of God and it doth not yet appeare what wee shall be but we know that when he shall appeare wee shall be like him for we shall see him as he is Iude â— 24 25. Now vnto him that is able to keepe you from falling and to present you faultlesse before the presence of his glory with exceeding ioy To the onely wise God our Sauiour be glory and maiesty dominion and power now and euer Amen Doth God in these places promise to protect vs against forraine enemies not against domesticke perfidiousnesse The texts doe respect no condition as the cause of fulfilling these promises but plainly affirme that God himselfe doth promise and will giue the condition which hee requires For to what end doth he write the Law in the heart vphold with his hand and giue a good issue to the temptation but that the will prone to wickednesse should not yeeld and altogether start backe from grace receiued Whosoeuer is borne of God 1. Iohn 3.9 1. Iohn 5.18 doth not commit sinne for his seed remayneth in him and he cannot sinne because he is borne of God And if the seed abide in the faithfull as an indeleble character and pledge of their inheritance that they cannot sinne in the Apostles sence then are they fenced against the treachery of their owne hearts remayning in them Iohn 4.14 7.38 39. Whosoeuer drinketh of the water that I shall giue him shall neuer thirst but the water that I giue him shal be in him a wel of water springing vp into euerlasting life where thirst is opposed to a totall want of grace not to the earnest desire of increase in grace The thirst of totall indigencie is taken away by the participation of grace 1 Pet. 2.2 3. the thirst of complacencie or more ample fruition of grace is increased The Holy Spirit who is sent into the hearts of the Sonnes of God is not there as a guest to tarrie for a night or two but as an inhabitant to dwell and remaine for euer yea as an earnest of their inheritance Rom. 8.11 Hag. 2.5 1. Pet. 4.14 1. Iohn 2.27 John 14.16 vntill the redemption of the purchased possession I will pray the Father and he shall giue you another Comforter that he may abide with you for euer Now he which stablisheth vs with you in Christ and hath anointed vs is God who hath also sealed vs 2. Cer. 1.21.21 Eph. 1.14 and 4.30 and giuen the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts which is the earnest of our inheritance vntill the redemption of the purchased possession vnto the praise of his glory 1. Pet. 1.23 The seede whereof the faithfull are begotten is incorruptible the life which they liue by faith in Christ is an euerlasting life Iohn 5.24 Iohn 17.3 Iohn 6.47 Verely verily I say vnto you Hee that heareth my word and belieueth on him that sent mee hath euerlasting life and shall not come into condemnation but is passed from death vnto life And this is the record that God hath giuen to vs eternall life 1. Iohn 5.11.12 and this life is in his Sonne He that hath the Sonne hath life and he that hath not the sonne hath not life Now the Scripture saying He that belieueth hath euerlasting life and shall not come into condemnation doth import that faith and the fruites thereof be such from which the godly through the power of God neuer fall Luk 22.32 Iohn 17.15 And for further confirmation the Scripture testifyeth that Christ hath prayed for his people that their faith should not faile that they should be kept from the euill This cannot be restrained to the Apostles Vers 20. but it is the coÌ„mon priuiledge of all the faithfull Neither pray I for these alone but for all them also which shall belieue on mee through their word And the intercession of Christ euen for this particular blessing of the not failing of faith neuer ceaseth is euer effectuall and speedeth alwayes And that nothing might bee wanting to full consolation in this point we are assured from God that he will perfect the the worke of grace which he hath begun 1. Cor. 1.8 Who shall also confirme you vnto the end that ye may be blameles in the day of our Lod Iesus Christ Being confident of this very thing Phil. 1.6 that he which hath begun a good worke in you will performe it vntill the day of Iesus Christ Faithfull is hee that calleth you 1. Thess 5.24 who also will doe it that is as goeth immediately before preserue your whole Spirit and soule and body blamelesse vnto the comming of our Lord Iesus Christ 2. Thess 3 3. The Lord is faithfull who shall establish you and keepe you from euill Now seeing God hath bin pleased by so many promises to assure the faithfull of their sure and stedfast estate By serious meditation on these prâ—mises wee must settle our selues in belieuing which is very necessary it is necessarie seriously to learne and thinke vpon them that they might be setled in belieuing their perseuerance Had it not beene a point of great weight and necessitie wee cannot thinke the Lord would haue mentioned it so often and confirmed it so many wayes which will soone appeare to any man that shall consider his owne frailtie and the strength and malice of his spirituall enemies how potent and vigilant they bee to assaile how weake and feeble hee is to withstand and make resistance Nor is our weaknesse greater then our backwardnesse to belieue the promises of perseuerance when wee stand in most need of them When corruptions stirre and tentations be hot fierie we find our selues ready to fâ—int then are we to seeke of a promise that might vphold against the feare of falling away or if the promise be at hand we cannot lay hold vpon it some mist or other comes betweene it the eye of our vnderstanding Many good Christians are kept vnder with this temptation They are afraid they shal neuer hold out if persecution shold come they stand in doubt lest they should fall away as many haue done who made greater shewes seemed to haue gone further then euer they did
might wauer a promise is annexed Whatsoeuer yee shall aske the Father in my Name hee will giue it you But without question they haue allowance to belieue the obtaining of that which Christ hath prayed for 1. John 5.14 and the faithfull aske of God in the Name of Chrâ—st according to his will The seruants of Christ who liued by the like pretious faith with vs grounâ—ed vpon the same promises and subiect to the same temptations Rom 8.38.39 belieued their perseuerance I am perswaded that neither death nor life nor Angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come nor height nor depth nor any other creature shal be able to seperate froÌ„ the loue of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. Phil. 1.20 According to mine earnest expectation my hope that in nothing I shal be ashamed but that with all boldnes as alwayes so now also Christ shal be magnified in my body whether it bee by life or by death And the Lord shall deliuer me from euery euill worke and will preserue me vnto his heauenly kingdome 2. Tim. 3.18 to whom be glory for euer and euer Amen But what one belieued vpon common and ordinarie grounds that is the priuiledge of all belieuers which they are allowed to receiue It is a great glory to God that wee liue by faith on him concerning our future estate and relie vpon his grace that shall encounters wee shall bee more then Conquerours through him that loued vs. For this is to take God to bee our God not only to put our confidence in him in prosperitie and aduersitie when wee haue meanes or meanes be wanting for our soules and bodies but also to relic vpon him that he will make vs walke in his Commandements and put his feare in our hearts that wee shall not depart from him that hee will perfect his worke begun in vs finish our fai h and preserue vs vnto his euerlasting kingdome This faith doth giue vnto God the praisent all grace which he is pleased to bestow and of all workes of grace which he effecteth by vs. Hee that relieth vpon the good vse of his free-will must necessarily ascribe the praise of his perseuerance in part if not principally vnto himselfe but he that resteth vpon the Lord for establishment against all spirituall enemies and abilitie vnto euery good worke hee must necessarily ascribe the whole praise vnto the glory of Gods grace vpon which hee doth depend The acts of faith concerning perseuerance The acts of saith concerning perseuerance bee these and such like First It makes a man sensible of his owne frailtie and infirmitie how weake and feeble he is apt not only to fall but euen to fall away if he were not vpholden by the grace and power of God 2. Cor. 3.5 Not that we are sufficient of our selues to thinke any thing as of our selues but our sufficiencie is of God Naturally we trust in our selues and are pâ—esumptuous of our strength but when by faith we goe forth of our selues vnto God for helpe we can see nothing in our selues but weaknesse and frailtie Secondly It stirres vp holy iealousie and suspition lest we should coole decay start-aside or fall backe Faith is bold and timorous confident and suspicious confident in God suspitious of our selues I was afraid saith Iob of all my workes Iob 9.28 Gatak Spirituall Watch pag. 84. knowing that if I did wickedly thou wouldst not acquite me And this suspition doth beget care to shunne occasions of sinne and watchfulnesse to preuent spirituall distempers A man iealous of his health is warie in his diet and he that hath his soule in suspition will euer be questioning with it and watching ouer it least he should offend This iealosie is euer waking apt to cast the worst that may fall out but to counsell the best that is to keepe farr from the occasions of sinne abstaine from all appearance of euill and take heede of the snare in lawfull businesses of this life And surely in this kinde considering our great frailty it is more behoouefull for a man to be somewhat too hee die and cautelous then to be a little too secure and selfe confident to be suspitious of his weaknesse that hee may be enabled by God and become strong in him then while he is fool-hardie strong in his owne conceit to run into danger and proue weak in triall Thirdly Psal 17.5 Faith instantly crieth vnto the Lord for help strength and continuall supply of grace Hold vp my goings in thy paths that my footsteps slip not Psal 119.8 I will keepe thy statutes O forsake me not vtterly Looke thou vpon me and be mercifull vnto me as thou vsest to doe vnto those that loue thy Name Order my steps in thy word Psal 119.32 33. Cant. 1.4 and let not any iniquitie haue dominion ouer me Draw me we will runne after thee Shew me thy wayes O Lord teach me thy pathes Lead mee in thy truth Psal 25.4 5. and teach me for thou art the God of my saluation on thee doe I waite all the day long When men be conscious to themselues of their owne wants they are wont to resort vnto others by whom their wants may be supplied The Belieuer is emptie in himselfe and sensible of his owne weaknesse desirous of supply and confident of helpe in God 2. Tim. 4.17 2. Cor. 12.9 10. 2. Cor. 4.7 who alone is able to confirme and strengthen him yea so to inable him notwithstanding his infirmitie that his power and might shall appeare in him amidst his feeblenesse his very infirmity shall make much for his glory and therefore hee will not cease day after day to repaire vnto him for continuall supply and strength of grace Fourthly Faith desireth digesteth and feedeth vpon the wholesome food of life 2. Pet. 2.2 As new borne babes desire the sincere milke of the Word that yee may grow thereby If the bodie be healthfull and in case to grow in strength there will be an appetite to wholesome food and good digestion by the stomacke euery liuing thing hath a facultie to draw nourishment vnto it selfe and the faith which neuer faileth doth not only couet but kindly digest the Word of life and sucke nourishment from it whereby it is made able and strong to euery good word and worke If the stomacke decay or the appetite be inordinate after things hurtfull and vnwholsome food or the digestion ill that meate taken in passeth away not altered by the stomacke the naturall life is in danger so the life of grace languisheth when our appetite to the word decayeth wee affect earthly things immoderately delight in a frothy windie vaine sound of words which pleaseth the eaâ—e but edifieth not the conscience or if we heare sleightly but take not paines to feed substantially vpon the Word I denie not but a liuely neuer-fading faith is subiect to these and more grieuous
is he that feareth the Lord him shall he teach in the way that he shall chuse His soule shall dwell at ease Psal 25. â—2 13. Pro. 11.21 and his seede shall inherite the earth Though hand ioyne in hand the wicked shall not bee vnpunished but the seede of the righteous shall bee deliuered Pro. 14 20. Pro. 20.7 In the feare of the Lord is strong confidence and his children shall haue a place of refuge The Iust man walketh in his integritie his children are blessed after him Iob. 5.25 These and such like be the promises concerning temporall blessings which God of his infinite grace and loue hath made to the faithfull and their posterity that we might liue by faith quietly submitting our selues to the good pleasure of God in these things and expecting from him in due season such reliefe as shall bee most expediâ—nt It is necessary to belieue those promised First This is necessary for faith in these promises doth kill couetous desires distrustfull and distracting eares Let your conuersation bee without couetousnesse and be content with such things as yee haue For he hath saide I will neuer leaue thee nor forsake thee Man is priuie to his want of blessings Heb. 13.5 and will neuer cease with excessiue care deligence and vexation to hunt after them till hee come to knowe that God will prouide for him When one hath great friends which they are knowne to leane vpon wee say of them Such neede take no care they know such and such will see to them On the contrarie come to one who knowes no end of toyling and caring aske him why will you thus tyre your selfe out He will answere I must needs doe it I haue none but my selfe to trust to Math. 6.30.32 So Christ followeth his Disciples carefulnesse to this doore their vnbeliefe which did not let them consider our heauenly Father cared for them No present estate though neuer so great can free the heart from distraction 1. Pet. 5.5 because it is subiect to decay and vanish wee shall neuer cast the burden of care off our owne shoulders till we learne by faith to cast it vpon the Lord whose eye is ouer vs for good Secondly Hee will neuer renounce carnall supports who makes not God the stay of his soule for outward things Hee will trust in the abundance of his riches Psal 52.7 wisdome friends or strength that makes not God his strength The heart of man being priuie to his inability to sustaine himselfe if he be not vnderset will seeke out some prop true or false sound or rotten to leane vnto They will goe downe to Aegypt for helpe Esay 31.1 and 22 10 11 12. and stay on horses and trust in Chariots because they are many and in horsemen because they are very strong who looke not to the holy one of Israel seeke not the Lord. Thirdly Beliefe in God brings good successe The Lord will be intreated to showre his blessings plentifully vpon them that put their trust in him 2. Chro. 20.20 1. Chro. 5.20 2. Chro. 16.7 8. Belieue in the Lord your God so shall yee be established belieue his prophets so shall yee prosper Men are ashamed to falsifie the trust that is reposed in them And shall the Lord frustrate the desire of them that hope in his mercy Fourthly If we cleaue not to the promises of God made concerning temporall things we shall adhere to the promises of life with lesse assurance 2. Cor. 1.20 Both promises flow from one fountaine euen Gods euerlasting loue are stablished in the same mediatour and receiued by the same faith yea the promises of life euerlasting as more spirituall and furthest remoued from sence are in themselues more difficult to bee belieued so that our assurance of them câ—nnoâ— bâ— gâ—eatâ—r 〈◊〉 our coâ—fidence in â—od â—or the other whiâ—h conce ne thiâ— lâ—fe so fâ—rrâ— as he seeth it to be for our good and the glory of his gâ—eâ—t name if we bee instructâ—d exercised and assaâ—lted in both alike Christianâ— are of asâ—â—â—l ed touching these promises â—nd many vertuoâ—s and godly men not duly consiâ—ering and embracing them by fâ—â—th are â—â—ch perplexed in themselues Psa 116.11 Psal 31.22 I said in â—y hast said Dauid when he fled from Saul anâ— hiâ— heart began to fâ—int â—ll men are lyâ—rs euen the prophâ—ts who told me I should be king haue deceiued me Distrust in the â—emporall p omiseâ— of God hath driuen the fa thfuâ—l to mâ—ny hard dangerous shifts and bâ—ene the o casion oâ— diue â—s sl pâ— and some dangerous falls The examples of Abraham Dauid â—nd many o thers together with daily experience in all places doe sâ—fficiently testifie thus much Fiftly Faith sweeteneth â—nd sanctifieth vnto vs the vse of all outward comforts vndeâ— our hands Meate apparrell riches honours â—hough lawfully coâ—passâ—d and in abundance possessed yeeld but a sowre tast in comparison are but of small profit when they bee not vsed in faith Nay blâ—ssings not receiued and vsed in faith beâ—ome Idols Marke 10 24. or occasions of Idolatrie for either we trust in them or be lifâ—eâ— vp in our selues by reason of them The rich mans weâ—lth is his strong City hee reioyceth in his riches â—ro 10. â—5 Psal 62.10 Pro. 30.8.9 and hath in his thoughts to doe great matters by them Giue mee neither pouertie nor riches feed mee with food conu nient for me Lest I be full and denie thee and say who is the Lord. The godly are allowed to liue by faith touching these temporall promises The godly are â—llowed to liue by faith as â—â—ching these promises and the sanctified vse of Gods blessings which they â—nioy First For seeing God hâ—th giuen Christ for vs as the Apostle reasoneth how shâ—ll hee not with him also freely giue vs all things Hee hath giuen his sonne the fountaine of all good things Rom. 8 3â— what is it then that hee will d â—â—e vnto vs Esay 7.19 The p omise of Christ before his incarnation was to the Iewes a seale of all temporall good â—hings p omised But we know God hâ—th giuen his sonnâ— not onely to be borâ—e bâ—t to â—ie for vs which is an vnâ—oâ—â—eâ— t ken that he will denie vs nothing that may be for our good â—nd comfo t. Secondly The Lord by couenant hath promised to furnish his people with all needfull blessings pertaining to thiâ— life He thâ—t scattered Israel will gâ—ther him Ier. 31.10.11.12 and keepe him as a sheepeheard doth his flocke For the Lord hath redeemed Iacob and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger thâ—n he Therefore they shall come and sing in the h ight of Zion shall slow together to the goodnesse of the Lord for wheat and fâ—r wine and for oyle and for the young of the flocke and of the herd their soule shall bee as a watered garden and they shall not sorrow any more at
They are spots in the feasts of Charitie Inde verse 12. Matth. 24.38 â—9 who feed without feare Eating drinking building matter of marriage the world shall be drowned in these when Christ comes to Iudgement How many times doe the best offend in lawfull things The pleasure we take in these things Iob 1.5 how insensibly doth it steale the heart away from spiâ—ituall delights how doth it indispose the frame of the soule to heauenly exercises how doth it cherish wrath Prou. 23.1 2 3. and foster vnbridled passions Daintie meates are very dangerous and deceitfull for the sensible delight they giue whereby the appetite is inordinately moued after them doth presse downe the soule that it cannot mount aloft in spirituall contemplation These euils faith doth wisely foresee and watch to preuent Sixtly It lifteth vp the soule in thankesgiuing Our Sauiour blessed the Table as well by praising God for his mercie Deut. 8.10 1 Tim. 4 4 as by prayer for a blessing The creatures are not ours but the Lords we must not meddle with them before wee haue craued leaue and when we haue made vse of them for supply of our necessitie we must not forget to returne praise If men borrow ought of their neighbour when they bring it home they forget not to giue thankes Great is the misery of man if hee want these outward comforts and the greater our miserie without them the more â—ncomprehensible is the Lords mercie in supplying our nâ—cessitie The prouidence of God in ministr ng daily food is no lesse wonderfull then was his feedâ—ng of Israel in the wildernesse with Mâ—nna and Quailes from Heauen for as we are not fed as they were so â—re we preserued from their necessitie That the earth should yeeld her increase for our daly sustenance so as wee feele no extremitie is it not as great a blessing as to bee supplied from Heauen when we are brought into distresse who would not chuse rather neuer to be sicke then to recouer by miracle what man would noâ— rather enioy the constant benefit of eye-sight then to bee restored after long blindnesse Besides they bee not simply fauours which for the present sustaine nature but they are some small pittance of our childs portion pawnes of our heauenly inheritance which doth adde much vnto their sweetnesse If friends be absent a letter a token serues much to maintaine loue and kindnesse now these be some of those loue-tokens which our heauenly Father sendeth vnto vs that he might draw our loue vnto him Seuenthly Faith is frugall compassionate industrious After wee haue beene refreshed it suffers not the meate which remâ—ineth to be lost but reserueth it for good vse At greater feasts it is mindfuâ—l of the poore Iohn 6.12 Amos 6.6 Esay 5.12 at ordinarie meales it remembers the affliction of Ioseph regardeth the worke of the Lord and consiâ—ereth the operation of his hâ—nds For the mercies of God receiued by faith doe leaue an imp ession of his mercie vpon the soule and so our compassion towards others is increased as the mercies of God are multiplied vpon vs. Daily refreshing renueth the continuall remembrance of our infirmities and begetteh a liuely sense of the miseries oâ— them that want and stand in neede And when vigour of Mâ—nde anâ— body is repaired it setteth vs about the worke and businesse whereunto wee are â—ppointed of God God giues none food to liue idle Men looke for work from them to whom they giue meate drinke and wages and shall not wee labour in the work of God who liue daily on his allowance CHAP. IX What it is to liue by faith touching the Commandements which God hath giuen for direction of our liues according to which wee ought to walke IN the word of grace the Lord calleth for vniuersall voluntarie sincere vniforme constant obedience and promiseth both to â—nable his Children to doe what is pleasing and to accept of their willing though weake seruice The first of these branches is apparent and well knowne to them thâ—t be any whit exercised in the word the second hath beene proued at large alreadie neuerthelesse that weake Christians might haue in readinesse some grounds of faith in these particulars it will not be sâ—perfluous to point to some passages of Scripture where they may see them confirmed The Lord calls for willing chearefull vniuersall vnfained constant obedience Gen. 17.1 Exod. 19.5 That Christians are bound to serue God willingly and cheerefully without constraint vniuersally in holines and righteousnes vnfainedly as in his sight al the dayes of their life constantly in all estates vnto the end these few texts may be sufficient to pâ—oue I am the Almighty God walke before me and be thou perfect If yee will obey my voyce indeede and keepe my couenant then yee shall be a peculiar treasure vnto mee aboue all people Deut. 5.29 and 6.2 O that there were such an heart in them that they would feare me and keepe my commandements alwayes that it might bee well with them Deut. 6.17 and with their Children for euer You shall diligently keepe the Commandements of the Lord your God â—f thou shalt hearken diligently vnto the voyce of the Lord thy God Deut. 28.1 to â—bseruâ— and to doe all his Commandements which I commaund thee this day the Lord thy God will set thee on high aboue all the nations of the earth Take diligent heede to doe the commaundement and the lâ—w which Moses the seruant of the Lord charged you Josh 22.5 and 23.8 24.14 1 Chro. 28.9 to loue the Lord your God and to walke in all his wayes and to keâ—pe his Commandements and to cleaue vnto him and to serue him with all your heart and withall your soule Blessed are they that keepe iudgement Psal 106.3 and he that doth iustice at all times To this end are we deliuered out of the hâ—nds of our enemies Luk. 1.74.75 that we might serue him without feare in holinâ—sse and righteousnesse before him all the dayes our life Pro 23.17 Be thou in the feare of the Lord all the day long And looke what seruice the Lord doth expect and call for Psal 25.12 that he will enable his people in couenant to performe What man is he that feareth the Lord him will he teach in the way that he shall chuse Deut. 30.6 The Lord thy God will circumcise thine heart and the heart of thy seed to the loue Lord thy God with all thy heart and withall thy soule that thou maist liue Verse 8. Ieremi 24.7 And thou shalt returne and obey the voyce of the Lord and doe all his commandements which I commaund thee this day And I will giue them an heart to know mee that I am the Lord Ezek. 11.19 and they shall be my people and I will be their God for they shall returne vnto me with their whole heart And I will put a new Spirit within you and I will
I seeke thee my soule thirsteth for thee my flesh longeth for thee in a drie and thirstie land where no water is To see thy power glory so as I haue seene thee in the Sanctuarie How amiable are thy tabernacles Psal 84.1.2 Verse 3. O Lord of hosts My soule longeth yea euen fainteth for the courts of the Lord my heart and my flesh cryeth out for the liuing God Blessed are they that dwell in thy house The Leuiticall worship was as a glasse more dimme in which they beheld the face of the Lord obscurely the word and Sacraments are to Christians as a cleare glasse in which as with open face we behold the glory of God in Christ Reu. 4.6 2. Cor. 3.18 Christ is present with vs as long as we hold his publike worship he is found when wee recouer it hauing beene lost Then doth the face of the Lord shine vpon vs when he offers himselfe vnto his people to bee seene in his publike worship the pure and vndefiled exercises of pietie And from hence springeth the willingnesse of the Saints Pro. 8.34 to waite continually at the postes of wisdomes gates to heare her words their earnest contention and study to preserue maintaine vphold and set forward the pure worship of God and to saue or free it from the drosse of superstitious vanities which obscure the cleare light of the Lords countenance and to restore it according to the patterne if once it fall and their diligent enquirie after Christ if his face bee hidden from them or his worship be polluted with Idolatry Cant. 1.7 Tell me O thou whom my soule loueth where thou feedest where thou makest thy flocke to rest at noone for why should I be as one that is vailed amongst the flockes of thy companions Why should I bee as a womâ—n wasting her selfe with sorrow and griefe while I sâ—eke thy presence in thine ordinances Thirdlâ— It seeketh acquaintance with God and the knowleâ—ge of his will in Christ Iesus Rom. 10.19 Without some knowledge of God in Christ and of his word going before there can be no faith but faith endeauoureth the encrease of knowledge It cryeth after knowledge and lifteth vp the voyce for vnderstanding It seeketh her as siluer and searcheth for her as for hid treasures Psal 119.20 My soule breaketh for the longing that it hath vnto thy iudgements at all times Verse 27. Psal 9 10. and 40.16 Psal 105.4 Esay 58.2 Make me to vnderstand the way of thy precepts so shall I meditate or talke of thy wondrous workes This is implied in the phrase of seeking God which signifieth to bend all their stength and power to know â—â—â—nowledge and worship God aright Knowledge is pleasant to the belieiung soule and wisedome delighteth the heart Children couet sweete meates because they please the taste and the belieuer desires the knowledge of God and his word because it is sweete and deare vnto him God in Christ is the obiect of faith the matter whatsoeue iâ— reuealed of God to be receiued or beliâ—ued and faith it selfe is more strong and the operations of fâ—â—th more liuely and comfortable as these are betâ—eâ— knowne And fâ—om this desire it commeth Act. 16.14 Luk. 2.51 Heb. 2.1.2 that the belieuer doth â—pply himselfe to attend vnto the word of truth ponder it seriously and treasure it vp safe that it might not ouâ—rslip him Fourthly It giuâ—th the heart close to the word receiueth and possesseth the good things promised and changeth the disposition of soule into the nature of the word Psal 63.8 Deut. 10.20 and 13.4 Psal 63.5 Ioh. 6.51.53 Psal 119.31 Iam. 1.21 Faith followeth hard after the word till it be made our owne and its liuely Character stamped vpon the soule It feedeth vpon euery part of the word getteth interest in euery promise â—nd sucketh vigour and iuyce out of it By faith wee stâ—â—kâ— close vnto the word and the word doth sticke or is ingraâ—â—ed into vs. And to the end wee might possesse the pearle of the Gospell and be seasoned with the doctrine of grace throughly faith renounceth all interest in the lusts of the flesh and things of this life It earnestly pondereth and meditateth vpon the great things of the law to worke the heart to an holy esteeme of the excellent and heauenly things contained in it and to a gratious affectation to euery duty therein required And it importuneth the Lord by true prayer without hypocriticall halting or starting aside that he would be pleased to write his law in our hearts and keepe vs stedfast vnto him that wee may neuer depart from his feare For by faith we cleaue fast vnto God but it is God that knitteth vs vnto himselfe Ier. 1.3.11 As the girdle cleaueth to the loynes of a man so haue I tyed vnto mee the whole house of Israel that they might be my people Fiftly It quickneth to serue God in the vse of all his ordinances with diligence cherefulnes and best endeauour Gen. 4.4 Heb. 11.4 Psal 4â— 4 By faith Abel brought of the firstlings of his flocke and of the fat thereof an offering to the Lord. By faith Dauid went with the multitude vnto the house of God with the voice of ioy praise faith can neither be cloyed with Gods presence nor account any seruice too good for him The voyce of faith is I will sing and giue praise with the best member that I haue How should he be negligent in the vse of any ordinance who seeth God in his whole worship and findeth comfort tasteth sweetnesse in euery part Wee see by experience the desire of gaine drawes men to rise earely rest late toyle hard in any businesse that may bring in commoditie But faith begetteth an vnsâ—tiable operatiue constant thiâ—st and desire of spirituall things which makes the belieuer industrious in the vse of all meanes whereby his treâ—sure may be encreased Looke as the Mearchant takes paines to enrich himselfe â—say 64.4 Comâ—â— with â— Cor. 1.9 and encrease his substance so doth the faithfull soule to get possession of the true treasure Liuely faith and buâ—ning loue towards the Lord lodge both together which bring forth paâ—nes and forwardnes n the workes of holinesse willingnesse and delight to please him in all things More particularly it may be inquired how parents in faith should present their children vnto baptisme Parents should in faith present their Child to God in Baptisme What â—se Christians should mâ—ke of their baptisme when they come to age and discretion and how we are to receiue the Lords Supper in faith The dedication of a childe to God is a worke of singular and great importance one of the weightiest seruices we can take in hand though we may feare it is considered of few For to say nothing of the ignorant and profane sort who sauour not the things of God and therefore can haue no reuerent regard to the seales of the couenant how many be
come yea that whole time a man hath to spend from the very act of his Baptisme to his death For as it is the seale of a free euerlasting vnchangeable couenant so is the force and vse of it perpetuall Baptisme is the true Sacrament of repentance for remission of sinnes and spirituall renouation which being once receiued remaineth a perpetuall testimonie and pledge of the euerlasting Couenant of God and continuall washing away of sinne by the bloud of Christ and the Spirit of sanctification By singular appropriation it representeth and confirmeth ouâ— engâ—affing into Christ The vse to bee made of our Baptisme is two-fold but withall it sealeth the whole Couenant of grace The vse of Baptisme is twofold First It serues to be a pledge and token of Gods fauour and that diuers wayes First In that it is a seale of our regeneration by the holy Spirit whereby a diuine qualitie is infused into vs in the roome and place of originall corruption And therefore Baptisme as the text is ordinarily expounded is called the labour of regeneration Titus 3.5 it being an vsuall thing to call the principall cause and the instrument by the same name Secondly It sealeth and confirmeth vnto vs the free pardon and forgiuenesse of our sinnes Acts 2.38 Repent and be baptized euery one of you in the Name of Iesus Christ Acts 22.16 for the remission of sinnes Arise and be baptized and wash away thy sinnes calling on the Name of the Lord. Thirdly Baptisme is a pledge of the vertue of Christs death and of our fellowship therein Rom. 6.3 Doe yee not know that all wee who haue beene baptized into Iesus Christ haue beene baptized into his death Fourthly It is also a pledge of the vertue of Christs life and of our communion with him therein The life of Christ is the life of euery belieuer who liueth in Christ and shall liue for euer with him and in him a certaine pledge whereof he hath giuen vs in this Sacrament Rom. 6.5 For if wee haue beene planted together in the likenesse of his death we shall be also in the likenesse of his resurrection Buried with him in Baptisme Col. 2.12 wherein also you are risen with him through the faith of the operation of God who hath raised him from the dead Fiftly Bâ—ptisme is a pledge of our adoption in Iesus Christ By nature we are the children of wrath but by grace and adoption the sonnes of God through faith in Christ which is sealed in Baptisme wherein the name of the Father Sonne and holy Spirit is put vpon vs. When Iacob blessed the sonnes of Ioseph Ephraim and Manasses Gen. 48.16 saying Let my name be named on them hee adopted them for his sonnes to haue inheritance with them in the land of Canaan and when God putteth his name vpon vs hee signifieth and assureth that wee are his sonnes Yee are all the children of God by faith in Christ Iesus Gal. 3.26 27. For as many of you as haue beene baptized into Christ haue put on Christ Sixtly Baptisme is a solemne testimonie of our communion with all the liuely members of Christ Iesus It is a seale of the bond of mutuall loue and fellowship both of Christ with his members and of his members one with another 1. Cor. 12.13 For by one Spirit are wee all baptized into one bodie whether wee be Iewes or Gentiles whether wee bee bond or free Ephes 4.5 And Baptisme is one of those things whereby the vnitie of the Spirit is preserued in the bond of peace Seuenthly It is a seale and pledge to assure that God will prouide for vs in this life raise vp our bodies vnto life at the last day of Iudgement and bestow vpon vs that euerlasting Kingdome and Inheritance which hee hath prepared Marke 16.16 Titus 3.5 6 7. 1. Pet. 3.21 For in Baptisme the Lord doth promise to bee our God that hee will prouide vs of all things necessarie for soule and bodie turne all euils which doe befall in this miserable life to the furtherance of our saluation raise vp our bodies at the last day and receiue vs vnto himselfe to dwell with him for euermore In all which respects Baptisme is of great force to strengthen faith and ease the heart in distresse For when the repentant sinner feeles himselfe heauie laden with the burden of his sinnes when Satan tempts him to doubt or despaire in regard of his corruptions when his owne corruption moueth him to sinne and he is euen now in the combate the Spirit lusting against the flesh and the flesh lusting against the Spirit and when hee is deeply perplexed with feare of falling away then the consideration and remembrance of what was promised and sealed in Baptisme will serue to stay support and comfort the soule For there hee shall find that his name is written in the couenant of God that God hath promised to giue Christ to be his Redeemer to accept of Christs satisfaction for him to wash away all his sinnes as certainly as the water washeth away the filth of the bodie and hauing such a faithfull promise confirmed by seale wherefore should he be dismayed In Baptisme also God hath sealed vnto him the mortification of his sinne by the power of Christs death which is the ground of confidence that God will enable him to ouercome the rebellious lusts of his heart and crucifie the old man more and more vntill the bodie of sinne be vtterly destroyed True it is that man by nature is dead in sin but in Baptisme God of his mercie hath sealed vnto the belieuer his rising from the death of sinne to newnesse of life True it is that of our selues wee are prone to fall away from grace receiued But God of his rich grace sealeth vnto the faithfull in Baptisme a Resurrection vnto immortall life which shall grow daily but neuer decay Rom. 6.9 10. If the faithfull be afflicted and despised of men persecuted and forsaken cast out the visible Congregation and banished from the hoâ—se of God yea euen in the agonies of death the remembrance of the promises sealed in Baptisme will afford comfort For if men haue forsaken God hath receiuâ—d them If men scorne and contemne the Lord will acknowledge them Hee hath long agoe sealed them for his owne receiued them into his family vndertaken to prouide for them and adopted them as heires apparant to the Kingdome of Heauen If God had giuen them his word alone for securitie it had beene sufficient But hauing confirmed it by seale in Baptisme they haue great cause to rest assured True it is they may be cast out of the visible assembles but they can neuer be cut off from the inuisible Communion of Saints they must die but God hath sealed vnto them their rising from the graue to euerlasting life by the power and vertue of Christs Resurrection which is a comfort of all comforts able to vphold the soule
condemning it freely vnfainedly begging pardon with strength of grace to withstand sinne for the time to come Whensoeuer faith commeth to receiue the seale of pardon it pleadeth guiltie humbleth for transgression and intreateth forgiuenesse of vndeserued mercie that grace might be magnified in forgiuenesse Fiftly By faith wee receiue Christ offering himselfe freely to be contracted vnto vs. Christ maketh loue as a suiter and hath giuen the Sacrament as a token of his loue and faithfulnesse faith apprehendeth the miserie of the soule without Christ the excellent dignitie honour and beautie of Christ and the happinesse of the soule which is vnited vnto him and thereupon humbly embraceth his offer oâ— loue Sâ—xtly By faith wee resigne vp our selues vnto Iâ—sus Christ and willingly yeeld soule and bodâ—e vnto him This the natuâ—e of the matrimoniall contract which passeth beâ—wixt Christ and the belieuer requireth for as Christ promiseth to be a Sauiour Head and Husband vnto the belieuer so doth hee troth-plight himselfe vnto Iesus Christ to cleaue vnto him as his only Sauiour and in all things to bee obedient vnto his will and pleasure Wherefore my brethren Rom. 7.4 yee are also become dead to the Law by the bodie of Christ that yee should be married to another euen to him who is raised from the dead that we should bring forth fruit vnto God Seuenthly Faith feedeth vpon Christ and sucketh vigour from him Iohn 6.55 His flesh is meate indeed and his bloud is drinke indeed Meate to bee eaten not with the teeth but by faith Meate indeed not in nature but in effect because it nourisheth the soule and giueth eternall life to them that eate thereof And by faith wee spiritually eate the flâ—sh of the Sonne of Man and drinke his bloud And as he that eateth wholsome food is strengthened thereby and made fit and able for the actions of this life so hee that feedeth vpon Christ spiritually and by faith is strengthened to the actions of spirituall life and made able for the exercises of pietie and holinesse Eightly Faith assureth of that spirituall contract which hath passed betwixt Christ and the Christian soule and is sealed in the Sacrament Cant. 2.16 so that he may truly say My beloued is mine and I am his As a couple who haue lawfully giuen faith to each other and confirmed the same by pledge or token in the Congregation are assured of each other so when we haue contracted our selues vnto Christ and receiued the pledge thereof we come to be assured by faith that Christ is ours and that wee haue communâ—on in all the benefits of his death and passion Thâ—s faith reasoneth God the Father hath freely promised the pardon of all sinnes in and through Iesus Christ Christ doth offer himselfe as a Redeemer to deliuer them from the power of darknesse and to bring them into perpetuall grace with his Father to wash them from their sinnes by his bloud and spirit and to preserue and nourish them vnto life eternall who will receiue and belieue in him And being so louingly called and inuited I haue receiued the mercifull promise and â—esigned my selfe vnto Iesus Christ why then should I stand in doubt I heare the word of promise I see and haue receiued the seales annexed to the Word of grace the true and faithfull testimonie of God confirmed by oath and I may not question his truth nor draw backe from mine owne promise to rest vpon and cleaue vnto him for euermore Ninthly It stirreth vp ioy and thankfulnesse with serious remembrance of the manifold benefits and blessings which in Christ Iesus are vouchsafed When men haue a lease of some good bargaine sealed they are merrie and glad much greater cause of ioy haue they who haue receiued from God who cannot lie such a pledge of his loue the seale of an euerlasting inheritance Arise O my soule and sing for ioy for thy light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen vpon thee Thou didst sit in darknesse forlorne and miserable guiltie of sinne in bondage to the curse in feare of eternall condemnation but now God is appeased Christ hath satisfied iustice pardon is proclaimed thou hast receiued the free gracious promise and eternall blessed peace is concluded And for thy greater assurance God hath added his seale to his free grant of pardon holy bread is added and giuen to thee for a Sacrament and diuine testimonie that the body of Christ was crucified for thee blessed wine is added and giuen to thee for a certaine pledge and token that the bloud of Christ was shed for thee that righteousnesse purchased by that sacrifice is thine that eternall saluatioâ— procured by that price is thine by an irreuocable title Praise the Lord O my soule and forget not the gâ—eat â—oue of God in giuing his Sonne to die that thou mightest be deliuâ—reâ— from the feare of hell death forget not the Loue oâ— Christ in sâ—ffering death that thou mightest bâ— seâ— fâ—ee from the curse of the law and burning wrath of God deserued by sinne forget not the grace and fauour of God in calling thee to feast with him and giuing this pledge and earnest of his perpetuall loue Thou canst not forget â—hese but thou forgettâ—st thy selfe thou canst not neglect these but thou hatest thy selfe What canst thou desire more then to haue God to be thy God Christ to thy Sauiour What wouldst thou remember if thou forget the loue of Christ in suffering death for thy redemption and the earnest of his loue whereby hee doth assure that his body was crucified and his bloud shed for thee Meanes to stirre vp our selues to receiue the Lords Supper in faith Now the better to stirre vp our selues to receiue this Sacrament in faith First Wee must bewaile our vnbeliefe dulnesse earthly-mindednesse the distemper of our spirituall taste and conceite of spirituall fulnesse labouring to quicken the sense of our misery and raise the soule to an high prizing of Christ and hungring after him Emptinesse prepares to receiue meate and hunger giues it a good rellish and if wee see our miserie and nakednesse without Christ and thirst after him wee shâ—ll eate his flesh and drinke his bloud with sweete comfort and refreshing Secondly Consider how freely the Lord doth tender Christ to bee receiâ—ed in his Word and Sacrament The Lord I say faithfull in his promises plentifull in mâ—rcies who hath authoritie to giue what he promiseth offâ—reth Christ withall the benefits of his death and pâ—ssion to euery poore despised thirstie afflicted soule who doth desire and will receiue him Thirdly weigh and consider the blessed state and condition of them who bee reconciled vnto God contracted vnto Iesus Christ who are eased from their sinnes washed from their filthinesse and separated vnto glory and so quicken our soules to receiue and lay fast hold vpon these inestimable benefits offered vnto vs by name Fourthly Hauing troth-plighted our selues to Iesus Christ vnfainedly wee must awaken
by liuely faith is but the very outside and dull matter of a good and acceptable worke There is no going right forward in the way to Heauen 1. Tim 1.5 if faith be not the guide The end of the Commaundement is loue out of a pure conscience and faith vnfained That which is here called the precept is not all the law Iun. animad in Bell Cont. 5. lib. 3. cap. 11. not 14. but only the precept that Paul giueth to Timothy that he should haue care to see that there were no strange doctrine admitted neither for forme nor matter neither for things directly contrarie to wholsome doctrine nor for idle questions not tending to build vp the people in the loue of God and of their Neighbour as appeareth euidently Verse 3. both by the verbe before whereof this word here is deriued and by this same word vsed afterward in this chapter Verse 18. where the signification of it is restrained vnto the present matter of exhortaion Neuerthelesse it may well be applied to confirme that euery act of sincere and vnpartiall obedience must come from a liuely well-rooted and soueraigne faith Christ is the fountaine of life and faith the meane Act. 2.15 Iohn 1.4 Psal 36.9 Heb. 5.9 Christ is the fountaine and faith the meanes of life The power and originall of life is intirely reserued to the Lord and Prince of life the Light and Life of men the Author of eternall saluation But faith is the radicall band on our part whereby wee are tied vnto Christ and liue in him The bodie hath it soule which enclines it and so hath the soule its soule whereby it liues and that is Christ the quickning spirit 1. Cor. 15.45 Take away the soule from the bodie and earth becomes earth seuer Christ and the soule what is it but a dead carrion The members die if they bee seperated from the Head liue so long as they be conioyned to it Ephes 1.22 23. 4.16 Christ is to his Church and euery liuing member of it what the naturall Head is to the naturall members And so we liue primarily and properly by Christ as by the soule and Head by faith secondarily as by the Spirits the band of soule and body or by Nerues and sinewes the ties of the Head and Members Looke as the leg or arme liues by proper sinewes vniting them to the Head so doth euery belieuer liue in Christ by a wel-rooted soueraigne particular faith whereby he receiueth Christ and is made one with him Thus saith hee himselfe Who is the truth and the life Iohn 14.6 I am the resurrection and the life he that belieueth in me Iohn 11.25 though he were dead yet shall he liue and I am the bread of life Iohn 6.35 Iohn 5.26 hee that belieueth in me shall neuer hunger and againe As the Father hath life in himselfe so hath hee giuen to the Son to haue life in himself Thus speak the holy Scriptures of him In it was life and that life was the light of men Iohn 1.4 Col. 3.4 When Christ who is your life shall appeare Our hands haue handled the word of life For the life was manifested 1. Iohn 1.2 3. and we haue scene it and beare witnesse and shew vnto you that eternall life which was with the Father and was manifested vnto vs. And this is the testimonie of those three heauenly and earthly witnesses That God hath giuen to vs eternall life and this life is in his Sonne 1. Iohn 5.11 12. Hee that hath the Sonne hath life and hee that hath not the Sonne hath not life Whatsoeuer grace we want it is to be receiued from Christ 1. Cor. 1.30 Who of God is made vnto vs wisdome righteousnesse sanctification and redemption and whatsoeuer grace is in Christ for vs it is made ours by faith And so we find in diuers passages of Scripture that he that hath faith 1. John 5.13 hath the Sonne and eternall life in him This is liuely represented vnto vs by the Parable of the Vine and the branches that as the branch receiueâ— all the sap whereby it liues and is fruitfull from the Vine Iohn 15.5 so doe we from Christ being engrafted into him Life then is from Christ as the Author Rom. 11.20 Prince and Fountaine but wee liue by faith as it incorporateth vs into Christ and receiueth him to dwell in our hearts Ephes 3.17 So that whatsoeuer wee lend to faith it redounds to the honour of Christ Impossible it is that faith should waxe proud towards her Lord or insolent ouer her fellow seruants challenging any thing of desert vnto her selfe No faith receiues all of grace as a poore beggar and altogether excludes the hatefull law of boasting Rom 3.27 Rom. 4.16 Ephes 2.8 9.10 This is the nature the place the office of faith for God haâ—h ordained that life should bee through faith thâ—t it might bee of meere and rich grace And if the end and meanes appointed of God to lead thereunto doe well consent then it cannot be that faith should lift vp her selfe against grace or in any thing seeke her owne prâ—ise and not the glory of God Among all the gifts of God there iâ— none more vsefull then faith others are profitable for some few things this is for this life and the lâ—fe to come for all parts and purposes of our liues in the vse of it manifold and rich eueâ—y manner of way But euermore it aduancâ—th the gracâ— of God and causeth man altogether to disclaime himselfe his abilitie and worth Faith seâ—ueth not only to iustifie but to make vs endure in all afflictions without making haste Hab. 2.4 Esay â—8 16 Rom. 1.5 The Iust liueth in time of his afflictions by faith Hee that belieueth maketh not haste It doth worke in vs and guide the course of our obedience Wee haue râ—ceiued grace and Apostleship to the obedience of faith not only in belieuing the promise of the Gospell but the other pâ—rt or word of command It doth also preuaile against all Enemies 1. Iohn 5.4 This is the victorie that ouer-commeth the world euen our faith But in all this it leaneth vpon the grace of God looketh to his power and trusteth vpon his faithfull promise To liue by Faith Gal. 3.2 Rom. 4.21 Heb. 11.11 What it is to liue by faith is by faith in Christ to assent and adhere vnto and pâ—ssesse the whole Word of God as our owne in all estates and conditions resting quietly vpon his gratious and faithfull promise to receiue from his good hand all needfull blessings and comforts in fittest season and in all good conscience yeelding our selues vnto his good pleasure in sincere vniuersall and constant obedience To liue by faith is not only to belieue in Christ for saluation or to belieue throughout our life that wee shall be saued in the life to come but also to rest vpon the