of_o reasonable_a creature_n that_o if_o a_o disinterest_v and_o unprejudiced_a person_n be_v to_o speak_v his_o mind_n he_o will_v say_v that_o neither_o the_o wit_n of_o man_n nor_o angel_n can_v find_v out_o a_o more_o agreeable_a and_o effectual_a mean_n for_o the_o recovery_n of_o the_o world_n than_o what_o be_v already_o make_v use_n of_o in_o the_o contrivance_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o here_o god_n have_v consult_v the_o weakness_n infirmity_n prejudices_fw-la and_o imperfection_n of_o mankind_n which_o they_o have_v contract_v by_o a_o long_a degeneracy_n and_o corruption_n and_o corruption_n and_o which_o be_v become_v so_o inveterate_a and_o deep_o radicate_v as_o not_o to_o be_v remove_v but_o by_o such_o a_o dispensation_n as_o may_v so_o far_o gratify_v humane_a affection_n and_o natural_a propension_n as_o may_v be_v consistent_a with_o the_o honour_n and_o sanctity_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o this_o be_v that_o which_o st._n paul_n call_v the_o foolishness_n of_o preach_v 1_o cor._n 1.21_o for_o after_o that_o in_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n the_o world_n by_o wisdom_n know_v not_o god_n it_o please_v god_n by_o the_o foolishness_n of_o preach_v to_o save_v they_o that_o believe_v which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o the_o pagan_a world_n have_v no_o knowledge_n of_o the_o one_o only_a true_a god_n the_o creator_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o thing_n forthen_a the_o apostle_n will_v have_v contradict_v what_o he_o have_v say_v in_o another_o place_n rom._n 1.19_o where_o he_o say_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o which_o be_v knowable_a or_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_a within_o they_o but_o that_o the_o generality_n of_o the_o world_n before_o christianity_n by_o their_o natural_a light_n and_o contemplation_n of_o the_o work_n of_o god_n do_v not_o attain_v to_o such_o a_o practical_a knowledge_n of_o god_n as_o may_v both_o free_v they_o from_o idolatry_n and_o effectual_o bring_v they_o to_o a_o holy_a life_n to_o both_o which_o end_v christian_a religion_n be_v design_v of_o god_n that_o it_o shall_v attain_v therefore_o it_o please_v god_n by_o the_o foolishness_n of_o preach_v to_o save_v they_o that_o believe_v i._n e._n by_o a_o way_n of_o condescend_v wisdom_n gratify_v all_o our_o innocent_a propension_n and_o accommodate_v itself_o so_o far_o to_o the_o radicate_v and_o inveterate_a preposition_n of_o humane_a mind_n to_o give_v some_o instance_n of_o this_o condescend_v wisdom_n beside_o the_o general_a impurity_n and_o corruption_n of_o the_o life_n of_o man_n a_o learned_a jewish_a author_n give_v this_o account_n of_o the_o pagan_a polytheism_n and_o idolatry_n 468._o the_o idolater_n say_v he_o first_o argue_v thus_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n that_o since_o he_o be_v of_o such_o transcendent_a perfection_n above_o man_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o man_n to_o be_v unite_v to_o or_o have_v communion_n with_o he_o otherwise_o than_o by_o mean_n of_o certain_a middle_a being_n or_o mediator_n as_o it_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o earthly_a king_n to_o have_v petition_n convey_v to_o they_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o mediator_n and_o intercessor_n second_o they_o thus_o argue_v also_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o that_o be_v corporeal_a so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o apprehend_v god_n abstract_o they_o must_v needs_o have_v something_o sensible_a to_o excite_v and_o stir_v up_o their_o devotion_n and_o to_o fix_v their_o imagination_n upon_o here_o be_v then_o so_o early_o a_o prepossession_n and_o general_n debauch_v of_o man_n mind_n divine_a goodness_n and_o wisdom_n have_v so_o condescend_v to_o humane_a frailty_n and_o inclination_n as_o instead_o of_o that_o multitude_n of_o middle_a being_n or_o mediator_n which_o apuleius_n call_v inter_fw-la terricolas_fw-la caelicolasque_fw-la vectores_fw-la socratis_n hinc_fw-la precum_fw-la inde_fw-la donorum_fw-la qui_fw-la ultrò_fw-la citróque_fw-la pertant_fw-la hinc_fw-la petitiones_fw-la inde_fw-la suppetias_fw-la a_o kind_n of_o carrier_n between_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n who_o travel_v to_o and_o fro_o carry_v our_o prayer_n and_o petition_n thither_o and_o bring_v from_o thence_o gift_n and_o supply_n for_o we_o to_o constitute_v and_o appoint_v one_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n who_o offer_v up_o our_o petition_n and_o intercede_v with_o god_n and_o procure_v blessing_n and_o favour_n for_o we_o by_o his_o intervention_n we_o receive_v seasonable_a supply_n for_o all_o our_o exigence_n and_o necessity_n here_o and_o he_o take_v care_n to_o conduct_v we_o at_o last_o to_o that_o immortal_a glory_n that_o he_o himself_o be_v now_o possess_v of_o and_o that_o we_o may_v not_o err_v in_o transfer_v our_o worship_n upon_o the_o creature_n upon_o the_o account_n that_o we_o can_v have_v no_o abstract_a conception_n of_o god_n and_o in_o this_o our_o earthly_a state_n need_v something_o to_o invigorate_v our_o devotion_n and_o fix_v our_o imagination_n upon_o god_n have_v clothe_v himself_o with_o our_o flesh_n and_o blood_n and_o take_v into_o a_o near_a union_n with_o himself_o the_o soul_n and_o body_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o though_o rude_a and_o ignorant_a mortal_n may_v fancy_v god_n as_o a_o pure_a and_o immense_a spirit_n too_o raise_v a_o object_n for_o they_o in_o this_o their_o degenerate_a condition_n to_o have_v any_o conception_n of_o yet_o what_o be_v sensible_a and_o visible_a and_o congenerous_a with_o themselves_o they_o must_v needs_o have_v a_o apprehension_n of_o and_o such_o be_v the_o body_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n which_o be_v the_o temple_n wherein_o now_o the_o divinity_n be_v enshrine_v and_o wherein_o the_o schechinah_n or_o glorious_a majesty_n and_o presence_n of_o god_n reside_v and_o manifest_v itself_o which_o be_v a_o clear_a instance_n of_o the_o condescend_v wisdom_n of_o god_n which_o in_o compliance_n with_o the_o prepossession_n and_o mistake_v of_o mankind_n wherein_o they_o be_v fatal_o and_o inextricable_o involve_v have_v provide_v a_o visible_a object_n of_o their_o worship_n and_o adoration_n by_o unite_n himself_o with_o humane_a flesh_n i_o may_v instance_n in_o divers_a other_o congruity_n wherein_o christianity_n be_v so_o exquisite_o fit_v to_o redeem_v the_o world_n from_o the_o tyranny_n of_o satan_n and_o yet_o to_o gratify_v even_o in_o a_o sensible_a manner_n all_o the_o more_o innocent_a propension_n and_o inclination_n of_o mankind_n but_o i_o shall_v have_v occasion_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o some_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o my_o discourse_n it_o will_v now_o be_v requisite_a to_o take_v a_o more_o near_o and_o intimate_a view_n of_o the_o frame_n and_o contexture_n of_o christianity_n wherein_o we_o shall_v with_o admiration_n behold_v a_o mighty_a congruity_n with_o our_o natural_a faculty_n and_o a_o wonderful_a compliance_n all_o along_o with_o our_o infirmity_n and_o necessity_n for_o what_o can_v be_v think_v more_o become_v and_o reasonable_a than_o 1._o that_o some_o extraordinary_a person_n shall_v be_v send_v from_o heaven_n who_o shall_v in_o the_o most_o convince_a manner_n assure_v man_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n now_o this_o be_v already_o do_v for_o by_o the_o gospel_n we_o be_v assure_v that_o jesus_n christ_n the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n have_v appear_v upon_o earth_n to_o declare_v his_o father_n will_n unto_o men._n and_o by_o this_o way_n of_o proceed_v god_n not_o only_o conciliate_v reverence_n and_o esteem_n to_o the_o doctrine_n that_o be_v deliver_v but_o give_v a_o evident_a and_o mighty_a demonstration_n of_o his_o infinite_a love_n and_o goodness_n and_o that_o he_o be_v real_o desirous_a of_o man_n eternal_a happiness_n and_o welfare_n in_o that_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v discover_v and_o make_v know_v by_o a_o person_n so_o near_o and_o dear_a to_o he_o as_o his_o own_o son_n be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n of_o reverence_n and_o esteem_n since_o all_o people_n in_o the_o world_n have_v ever_o reccive_v a_o message_n from_o heaven_n with_o the_o high_a veneration_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o as_o the_o person_n that_o deliver_v it_o be_v of_o high_a and_o great_a worth_n and_o this_o be_v so_o general_a a_o persuasion_n that_o the_o most_o famous_a lawgiver_n among_o the_o pagan_n that_o they_o may_v make_v their_o law_n pass_v the_o better_a and_o find_v a_o more_o ready_a acceptation_n with_o the_o people_n they_o feign_v some_o heavenly_a power_n or_o other_o to_o be_v author_n of_o they_o and_o what_o be_v but_o pretend_v by_o they_o be_v real_o and_o true_o perform_v by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n who_o be_v the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n clothe_v himself_o with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n and_o assert_v his_o commission_n to_o be_v from_o god_n and_o be_v own_v by_o a_o voice_n from_o heaven_n to_o be_v what_o he_o declare_v himself_o and_o lest_o this_o shall_v not_o be_v enough_o to_o convince_v the_o world_n
be_v the_o reason_n the_o gaul_n give_v for_o their_o sacrifice_v of_o man_n comment_fw-fr pro_fw-la vitâ_fw-la hominum_fw-la nisi_fw-la vita_fw-la hominis_fw-la reddatur_fw-la non_fw-la posse_fw-la deorum_fw-la immortalium_fw-la numen_fw-la placari_fw-la arbitrabantur_fw-la i._n e._n they_o think_v the_o anger_n of_o god_n can_v not_o otherwise_o be_v avert_v unless_o the_o life_n of_o some_o man_n be_v offer_v as_o a_o piacular_a sacrifice_n for_o the_o safety_n of_o the_o rest_n now_o our_o lord_n by_o his_o death_n extricate_v man_n from_o this_o insult_a pride_n and_o cruelty_n of_o the_o devil_n in_o his_o barbarous_a usage_n and_o infinite_a contempt_n of_o humane_a race_n and_o the_o shed_v of_o his_o blood_n become_v a_o real_a propitiatory_a sacrifice_n to_o appease_v the_o anger_n of_o god_n and_o to_o obtain_v term_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o peace_n with_o he_o for_o all_o his_o lapse_v brethren_n 4._o it_o be_v high_o reasonable_a that_o this_o preacher_n of_o righteousness_n the_o person_n who_o shall_v undertake_v to_o bring_v back_o the_o stray_a soul_n of_o man_n to_o their_o obedience_n to_o god_n shall_v have_v all_o power_n commit_v into_o his_o hand_n both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n for_o since_o he_o humble_v himself_o so_o far_o as_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o form_n of_o a_o servant_n and_o vilify_v his_o own_o life_n in_o comparison_n of_o that_o great_a benefit_n that_o will_v accrue_v to_o the_o world_n by_o his_o lay_n it_o down_o and_o submit_v to_o the_o ignominious_a and_o accurse_a death_n of_o the_o cross_n divine_a justice_n be_v concern_v to_o reward_v these_o exinanition_n with_o a_o proportionable_a glory_n and_o that_o he_o may_v be_v instate_v in_o a_o capacity_n to_o reward_v his_o faithful_a friend_n and_o adherent_n and_o punish_v his_o refractory_a and_o stubborn_a enemy_n it_o become_v necessary_a that_o he_o shall_v have_v the_o government_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n put_v into_o his_o hand_n for_o this_o be_v a_o great_a security_n to_o we_o that_o our_o lord_n be_v able_a to_o make_v good_a whatever_o he_o have_v promise_v to_o his_o servant_n and_o a_o powerful_a encouragement_n to_o we_o to_o persevere_v and_o go_v on_o to_o the_o end_n in_o virtue_n though_o we_o pass_v through_o many_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n and_o be_v thus_o make_v god_n vicegerent_n we_o can_v doubt_v but_o he_o will_v order_v all_o affair_n of_o the_o world_n for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o at_o last_o remarkable_o triumph_n over_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n you_o see_v now_o the_o reasonableness_n and_o becommingness_n of_o the_o frame_n of_o religion_n and_o how_o suitable_a and_o agreeable_a it_o be_v to_o our_o capacity_n and_o necessity_n all_o which_o when_o st._n paul_n have_v consider_v he_o break_v out_o into_o a_o kind_n of_o admiration_n rom._n 11.33_o o_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o riches_n both_o of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n of_o god_n how_o unsearchable_a be_v his_o judgement_n and_o his_o way_n past_o find_v out_o god_n be_v a_o infinite_a wisdom_n have_v various_a way_n and_o method_n of_o govern_v and_o order_v his_o creature_n far_o above_o our_o shallow_a comprehension_n but_o the_o way_n of_o recover_a man_n be_v that_o which_o he_o have_v make_v choice_n of_o and_o discover_v to_o we_o by_o jesus_n christ_n in_o which_o there_o be_v such_o easy_a compliance_n with_o those_o inveterate_a prejudices_fw-la the_o world_n labour_v under_o and_o such_o apt_a condescension_n to_o humane_a nature_n as_o when_o the_o whole_a frame_n and_o contexture_n be_v lay_v open_a to_o a_o entire_a view_n we_o can_v wonder_v that_o the_o angel_n desire_v to_o look_v into_o it_o which_o plain_o show_v that_o religion_n be_v no_o confuse_v jumble_v or_o nonsense_n but_o a_o contrivance_n wherein_o appear_v the_o great_a art_n and_o high_a wisdom_n in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o all_o sober_a person_n admire_v the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o work_v of_o nature_n as_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o sun_n moon_n and_o star_n they_o have_v much_o more_o reason_n to_o stand_v amaze_v at_o this_o great_a work_n of_o the_o new_a creation_n or_o recovery_n of_o man_n soul_n to_o their_o first_o and_o original_a happiness_n and_o if_o we_o can_v give_v a_o satisfactory_a account_n of_o the_o order_n and_o management_n of_o the_o several_a phaenomena_n of_o providence_n in_o the_o natural_a world_n so_o in_o like_a manner_n there_o be_v a_o very_a reasonable_a defence_n to_o be_v make_v for_o the_o contrivance_n and_o conduct_n of_o affair_n in_o the_o moral_a a_o defence_n of_o reveal_v religion_n sermon_n iii_o rome_n i._o 16._o for_o i_o be_o not_o ashamed_a of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n that_o there_o be_v no_o unreasonableness_n in_o the_o frame_n and_o composition_n of_o christianity_n but_o that_o it_o be_v infinite_o agreeable_a and_o suitable_a to_o our_o case_n and_o necessity_n we_o have_v clear_o demonstrate_v it_o remain_v now_o that_o we_o show_v with_o the_o same_o plainness_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o disagree_v with_o sound_a reason_n in_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o it_o that_o so_o we_o may_v see_v that_o upon_o neither_o of_o these_o two_o account_n we_o have_v any_o cause_n to_o be_v ashamed_a of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o doctrine_n of_o christianity_n consist_v either_o 1._o of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v as_o article_n of_o faith_n or_o 2._o of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v command_v as_o duty_n and_o matter_n of_o our_o practice_n or_o 3._o of_o promise_n of_o great_a reward_n to_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v obedient_a and_o severe_a punishment_n and_o threaten_n to_o the_o stubborn_a and_o rebellious_a who_o refuse_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o those_o rule_n lay_v down_o in_o the_o gospel_n as_o to_o the_o article_n of_o faith_n we_o shall_v brief_o run_v over_o some_o of_o the_o chief_a of_o they_o that_o it_o may_v appear_v how_o consonant_a they_o be_v to_o the_o light_n of_o our_o own_o reason_n and_o understanding_n that_o our_o bless_a saviour_n shall_v be_v bear_v in_o a_o unusual_a and_o extraordinary_a manner_n of_o a_o pure_a and_o immaculate_a virgin_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o apparition_n of_o angel_n at_o his_o birth_n that_o the_o wise_a man_n of_o the_o east_n shall_v have_v notice_n and_o come_v to_o see_v he_o be_v all_o thing_n so_o high_o become_v that_o we_o shall_v wonder_v if_o the_o same_o or_o something_o like_o they_o have_v not_o be_v do_v for_o our_o lord_n be_v to_o be_v the_o great_a person_n that_o ever_o appear_v in_o the_o world_n and_o be_v design_v to_o be_v the_o fair_a copy_n of_o a_o holy_a and_o pure_a life_n and_o to_o correct_v all_o the_o carnal_a exorbitance_n and_o corporeal_a impurity_n in_o which_o mankind_n wallow_v as_o if_o their_o only_a felicity_n have_v consist_v in_o the_o high_a and_o rank_a exercise_n of_o their_o animal_n power_n it_o be_v very_o agreeable_a that_o his_o birth_n shall_v be_v different_a from_o the_o common_a manner_n and_o that_o he_o shall_v have_v no_o other_o father_n but_o god_n be_v a_o way_n very_o suitable_a to_o gain_v a_o great_a authority_n to_o those_o holy_a precept_n that_o he_o shall_v deliver_v to_o the_o world_n this_o be_v the_o universal_a sense_n of_o mankind_n that_o there_o be_v the_o great_a reverence_n due_a to_o what_o any_o person_n near_o relate_v to_o god_n communicate_v and_o that_o the_o angel_n shall_v usher_v in_o his_o wonderful_a nativity_n with_o a_o solemn_a anthem_n be_v no_o more_o than_o what_o serve_v to_o enhance_v and_o set_v forth_o the_o eminency_n value_n and_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n who_o be_v to_o be_v the_o great_a prince_n of_o angel_n as_o well_o as_o man_n and_o in_o that_o christ_n be_v design_v to_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o all_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o the_o person_n in_o who_o the_o gentile_n shall_v trust_v though_o the_o magi_n or_o wiseman_n intend_v no_o such_o thing_n yet_o it_o may_v well_o seem_v a_o prefiguration_n of_o that_o cheerful_a submission_n the_o gentile_a world_n shall_v yield_v to_o he_o as_o their_o prince_n and_o redeemer_n so_o soon_o as_o he_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v manifest_v to_o they_o and_o that_o christ_n shall_v appear_v in_o the_o world_n like_o one_o of_o we_o clothe_v with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n be_v more_o suitable_a to_o our_o state_n and_o condition_n than_o if_o god_n shall_v speak_v by_o a_o angel_n or_o a_o voice_n from_o heaven_n for_o since_o many_o trouble_n affliction_n and_o tribulation_n attend_v we_o in_o our_o way_n to_o immortality_n it_o can_v but_o be_v a_o great_a encouragement_n to_o we_o to_o bear_v they_o with_o patience_n when_o we_o see_v our_o most_o holy_a and_o innocent_a lord_n suffer_v a_o world_n of_o reproach_n and_o indignity_n and_o much_o hard_a usage_n
before_o he_o enter_v into_o his_o glory_n nor_o be_v it_o any_o more_o unbecoming_a or_o unworthy_a the_o majesty_n of_o god_n to_o unite_v himself_o with_o a_o humane_a body_n which_o his_o own_o hand_n have_v fashion_v and_o which_o be_v fearful_o and_o wonderful_o make_v than_o it_o be_v for_o the_o divine_a presence_n to_o take_v up_o its_o residence_n in_o the_o jewish_a temple_n and_o dwell_v in_o a_o house_n of_o stone_n last_o that_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v be_v make_v the_o visible_a judge_n of_o man_n and_o angel_n be_v no_o less_o congruous_a and_o rational_a 1._o in_o respect_n of_o himself_o this_o honour_n and_o triumph_n of_o the_o divine_a life_n be_v a_o just_a reward_n of_o his_o voluntary_a suffering_n and_o humiliation_n which_o be_v the_o account_n our_o saviour_n christ_n give_v himself_o john_n 5.27_o and_o have_v give_v he_o authority_n to_o execute_v judgement_n also_o because_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o man._n that_o be_v because_o he_o humble_v himself_o to_o so_o high_a a_o degree_n as_o not_o only_o to_o take_v upon_o he_o our_o flesh_n and_o blood_n with_o all_o its_o harmless_a infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n but_o endure_v with_o wonderful_a patience_n the_o contradiction_n of_o sinner_n the_o opprobrious_a taunt_n and_o revile_n of_o a_o rude_a generation_n and_o submit_v himself_o at_o last_o to_o a_o death_n full_a of_o pain_n ignominy_n and_o disgrace_n 2._o in_o regard_n of_o wicked_a man_n and_o devil_n for_o this_o visible_a appearance_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o so_o solemn_a a_o manner_n attend_v with_o innumerable_a legion_n of_o mighty_a angel_n descend_v into_o these_o low_a region_n near_o the_o earth_n the_o glory_n of_o who_o presence_n will_v be_v conspicuous_a to_o all_o the_o world_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o very_a sensible_a conviction_n to_o all_o wicked_a person_n of_o the_o folly_n of_o their_o do_n when_o they_o shall_v see_v the_o same_o jesus_n that_o deliver_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o they_o now_o come_v to_o call_v they_o to_o a_o account_n for_o not_o obey_v it_o and_o since_o there_o may_v be_v and_o doubtless_o be_v many_o scoff_v atheistical_a spirit_n in_o the_o aerial_a region_n as_o well_o as_o here_o on_o earth_n who_o ascribe_v all_o great_a mutation_n in_o the_o world_n to_o chance_n and_o fortune_n or_o the_o necessary_a combination_n of_o matter_n this_o appearance_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n in_o such_o a_o visible_a manner_n according_a to_o the_o sure_a prediction_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n will_v effectual_o confute_v their_o vain_a philosophy_n and_o force_v they_o even_o against_o their_o will_n to_o acknowledge_v the_o interposition_n of_o a_o divine_a power_n and_o providence_n neither_o will_v it_o be_v a_o less_o afflict_a abasement_n of_o the_o insult_a pride_n of_o that_o old_a serpent_n and_o his_o rebellious_a associate_n who_o so_o long_o tyrannize_v over_o mankind_n with_o such_o contempt_n and_o scorn_n to_o feel_v themselves_o cast_v down_o into_o everlasting_a destruction_n by_o that_o nature_n which_o they_o have_v so_o much_o vilify_v and_o abuse_v 3._o in_o respect_n of_o those_o who_o have_v be_v faithful_a adherent_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o firm_o persist_v in_o goodness_n notwithstanding_o the_o many_o discouragement_n they_o meet_v withal_o his_o appearance_n in_o such_o a_o sensible_a manner_n will_v be_v exceed_o comfortable_a and_o joyful_a for_o they_o behold_v he_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n with_o such_o transcendent_a power_n and_o glory_n must_v needs_o overflow_v with_o transport_n of_o joy_n to_o find_v that_o now_o their_o redemption_n will_v be_v full_o complete_v for_o what_o may_v not_o they_o hope_v for_o at_o his_o hand_n who_o be_v both_o their_o merciful_a redeemer_n and_o their_o judge_n and_o this_o very_a sight_n of_o their_o long-expected_n saviour_n will_v invigorate_v their_o soul_n with_o such_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o life_n as_o shall_v through_o the_o inward_a operation_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n transform_v their_o vile_a body_n into_o the_o similitude_n of_o the_o glorious_a body_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o in_o these_o fiery_a chariot_n like_o elijah_n they_o shall_v ascend_v from_o these_o mortal_a region_n to_o augment_v the_o train_n of_o this_o great_a and_o almighty_a judge_n so_o every_o way_n agreeable_a be_v the_o article_n of_o our_o christian_n faith_n 2._o we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christianity_n which_o consist_v of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v command_v as_o duty_n and_o matter_n of_o our_o practice_n which_o be_v only_o a_o revive_n the_o natural_a inscription_n and_o law_n of_o righteousness_n engrave_v upon_o our_o soul_n at_o their_o first_o creation_n for_o it_o can_v be_v think_v but_o that_o that_o long_a degeneracy_n we_o lie_v under_o and_o the_o powerful_a and_o vigorous_a growth_n of_o our_o animal_n faculty_n must_v exceed_o impair_v if_o not_o whole_o obliterate_v the_o fair_a impress_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n upon_o we_o so_o that_o we_o have_v need_v to_o have_v all_o those_o eternal_a rule_n of_o righteousness_n and_o holiness_n to_o be_v lay_v down_o to_o we_o afresh_o and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o duty_n and_o obligation_n that_o christianity_n lay_v upon_o we_o be_v the_o exsuscitate_v and_o raise_v up_o that_o decay_a and_o almost_o die_a spark_n of_o divine_a life_n yet_o leave_v in_o we_o and_o which_o may_v gain_v such_o strength_n by_o the_o powerful_a energy_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n as_o to_o consume_v or_o convert_v into_o its_o nature_n all_o that_o rubbish_n which_o hinder_v and_o obstruct_v it_o and_o according_a to_o these_o measure_v the_o command_n and_o law_n of_o christianity_n be_v frame_v so_o that_o they_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o ancient_a intellectual_a furniture_n of_o our_o own_o soul_n for_o sure_o there_o can_v be_v nothing_o more_o natural_a and_o consistent_a with_o our_o rational_a frame_n than_o to_o love_n and_o honour_n god_n from_o who_o infinite_a fullness_n we_o and_o all_o thing_n receive_v their_o be_v with_o all_o our_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o our_o strength_n to_o depend_v upon_o he_o for_o all_o our_o supply_n and_o to_o acknowledge_v our_o own_o nothingness_n that_o all_o that_o we_o have_v proceed_v and_o flow_v from_o his_o inexhausted_a bounty_n to_o sit_v quiet_a and_o content_v under_o the_o various_a dispensation_n of_o his_o providence_n and_o to_o bring_v our_o mind_n into_o a_o subordination_n and_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o his_o holy_a will_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o as_o christianity_n enjoin_v we_o to_o pay_v all_o duty_n and_o service_n and_o obedience_n to_o god_n so_o it_o strict_o command_v all_o manner_n of_o justice_n and_o righteousness_n to_o other_o forbid_v all_o harm_n and_o wrong_v to_o any_o thing_n live_v and_o instead_o of_o that_o require_v every_o man_n in_o his_o several_a station_n and_o capacity_n to_o do_v all_o that_o good_a that_o at_o any_o time_n lie_v in_o his_o power_n to_o be_v kind_a and_o compassionate_a forget_v and_o forgive_a all_o manner_n of_o injury_n do_v unto_o we_o and_o return_v good_a for_o the_o evil_a that_o we_o have_v receive_v furthermore_o christianity_n command_v we_o to_o avoid_v all_o lie_v and_o hypocrisy_n as_o thing_n beneath_o the_o excellency_n and_o dignity_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o to_o speak_v the_o truth_n in_o sincerity_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n to_o banish_v out_o of_o our_o mind_n all_o malignity_n rancour_n malice_n and_o envy_n as_o be_v the_o most_o contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n who_o delight_v in_o the_o prosperity_n and_o happiness_n of_o his_o creature_n and_o therefore_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o christian_a above_o all_o other_o be_v enlarge_v and_o widen_v with_o a_o universal_a love_n and_o charity_n ready_o undertake_v the_o help_n and_o relief_n of_o the_o necessitous_a and_o indigent_a look_v upon_o all_o mankind_n as_o brethren_n and_o thereby_o joy_v and_o delight_v in_o the_o felicity_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n now_o as_o to_o ourselves_o we_o be_v engage_v by_o the_o precept_n of_o our_o holy_a religion_n to_o exercise_v great_a temperance_n and_o moderation_n sobriety_n and_o chastity_n in_o reference_n to_o all_o corporeal_a satisfaction_n and_o delight_n not_o to_o defile_v and_o pollute_v ourselves_o with_o debauch_a and_o sensual_a pleasure_n but_o to_o remember_v that_o our_o soul_n once_o come_v from_o the_o pure_a and_o incorruptible_a mansion_n of_o heaven_n and_o therefore_o that_o it_o be_v very_o unbecoming_a to_o suffer_v they_o to_o wallow_v and_o tumble_v in_o the_o dirt_n and_o mire_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o since_o we_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a extraction_n religion_n put_v we_o in_o mind_n to_o behave_v ourselves_o as_o citizen_n of_o that_o heavenly_a country_n and_o to_o release_v and_o withdraw_v our_o affection_n from_o this_o world_n and_o to_o think_v of_o our_o return_n thither_o
fast_o upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n the_o apostle_n make_v use_v of_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o next_o word_n for_o even_o christ_n please_v not_o himself_o i._n e._n christ_n have_v no_o respect_n for_o himself_o no_o end_n of_o his_o own_o to_o consult_v but_o as_o if_o he_o have_v whole_o forget_v himself_o he_o devote_a himself_o perfect_o to_o the_o promote_a of_o his_o father_n glory_n the_o whole_a number_n of_o christian_n that_o believe_v in_o jesus_n be_v one_o body_n now_o as_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n have_v the_o same_o care_n one_o of_o another_o so_o ought_v every_o man_n to_o be_v very_o tender_a of_o the_o good_a of_o his_o fellow-christian_a if_o a_o man_n be_v a_o true_a and_o unfeigned_a christian_a he_o will_v not_o walk_v solitary_a and_o alone_a in_o his_o way_n to_o heaven_n but_o will_v strive_v to_o draw_v as_o many_o to_o accompany_v he_o as_o he_o can_v in_o so_o pleasant_a and_o gainful_a a_o journey_n he_o will_v always_o be_v instruct_v those_o that_o be_v ignorant_a comfort_v the_o weak-hearted_a and_o strengthen_v those_o that_o be_v waver_v and_o unsettled_a and_o where_o these_o thing_n be_v want_v and_o every_o one_o life_n as_o a_o stranger_n to_o another_o it_o can_v be_v expect_v that_o the_o gospel_n shall_v draw_v off_o man_n from_o sin_n so_o successful_o and_o with_o so_o much_o triumph_n as_o it_o will_v if_o man_n will_v lay_v aside_o their_o little_a self-end_n and_o be_v of_o more_o universal_a and_o public_a spirit_n and_o employ_v their_o wit_n and_o diligence_n in_o do_v good_a to_o one_o another_o the_o sum_n and_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a matter_n be_v this_o since_o christian_a religion_n be_v intend_v not_o mere_o for_o wiseman_n and_o such_o as_o be_v of_o great_a reach_n and_o understanding_n but_o for_o the_o poor_a and_o weak_a person_n it_o be_v in_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n make_v plain_a and_o easy_a and_o that_o god_n may_v gratify_v our_o innocent_a search_n after_o knowledge_n he_o have_v hide_v many_o precious_a treasure_n of_o wisdom_n in_o the_o scripture_n as_o a_o reward_n of_o our_o piety_n and_o diligence_n and_o therefore_o where_o any_o thing_n be_v deliver_v so_o obscure_o that_o with_o our_o best_a diligence_n we_o can_v attain_v to_o the_o true_a sense_n and_o meaning_n of_o it_o it_o be_v a_o sure_a sign_n that_o whatever_o sense_n god_n intend_v yet_o he_o do_v not_o make_v that_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o the_o salvation_n of_o all_o men._n for_o if_o he_o have_v he_o will_v have_v lay_v it_o down_o in_o plain_a and_o not_o in_o intricate_a and_o ambiguous_a term_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n we_o must_v all_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o pray_v unto_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n st._n paul_n for_o his_o disciple_n the_o colossian_n chap._n 1.9_o 10._o and_o to_o desire_v that_o we_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o spiritual_a understanding_n that_o we_o may_v walk_v worthy_a of_o the_o lord_n unto_o all_o please_a be_v fruitful_a in_o every_o good_a work_n and_o increase_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o let_v we_o remember_v that_o as_o god_n have_v distribute_v the_o measure_n of_o his_o gift_n and_o grace_n to_o every_o one_o according_o shall_v their_o account_n be_v at_o the_o last_o day_n he_o that_o can_v read_v the_o bible_n and_o have_v few_o opportunity_n of_o knowledge_n his_o account_n shall_v not_o be_v so_o great_a as_o his_o that_o can_v read_v and_o have_v leisure_n and_o time_n to_o inform_v himself_o and_o he_o that_o have_v skill_n and_o knowledge_n to_o understand_v the_o scripture_n shall_v yet_o be_v more_o severe_o treat_v if_o he_o do_v not_o make_v use_n of_o this_o both_o for_o his_o own_o and_o his_o neighbour_n good_n a_o defence_n of_o reveal_v religion_n sermon_n v._n rome_n i._o 16._o for_o i_o be_o not_o ashamed_a of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n have_v dispatch_v the_o three_o first_o cause_n of_o shame_n we_o come_v now_o to_o remove_v and_o take_v away_o the_o four_o and_o last_o and_o to_o show_v the_o great_a usefulness_n of_o christian_a religion_n to_o the_o world_n the_o usefulness_n therefore_o of_o any_o thing_n consist_v in_o the_o serviceableness_n of_o it_o for_o that_o end_n to_o which_o it_o be_v design_v now_o this_o very_a apostle_n assure_v we_o 1_o tim._n 4.8_o that_o godliness_n be_v profitable_a to_o all_o thing_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o life_n that_o now_o be_v and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o be_v to_o say_v christianity_n be_v serviceable_a useful_a and_o conduce_v to_o promote_v the_o happiness_n of_o mankind_n both_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o present_a life_n and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v first_o then_o we_o shall_v consider_v the_o usefulness_n of_o christ_n religion_n in_o order_n to_o the_o felicity_n of_o the_o next_o world_n and_o show_v how_o excellent_o well_o suit_v it_o be_v to_o the_o attain_n of_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o intimate_v in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o text_n when_o he_o call_v it_o the_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n to_o every_o one_o that_o believe_v have_v christian_a religion_n design_v the_o instruct_n of_o man_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o nature_n give_v they_o a_o true_a system_fw-la of_o the_o heaven_n and_o declare_v the_o nature_n and_o property_n of_o all_o thing_n in_o this_o our_o earthly_a globe_n it_o will_v indeed_o have_v fill_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n with_o abundance_n of_o pleasure_n and_o delight_n but_o have_v mighty_o fall_v short_a of_o that_o universal_a usefulness_n that_o now_o it_o have_v the_o great_a end_n therefore_o which_o god_n intend_v by_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o advancement_n of_o true_a godliness_n the_o pull_v down_o and_o destroy_v the_o kingdom_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o the_o erect_n and_o set_v up_o the_o kingdom_n of_o light_n and_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n of_o men._n and_o that_o this_o be_v the_o purpose_n of_o god_n can_v be_v unknown_a to_o any_o who_o consider_v the_o great_a excellency_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o command_v of_o christianity_n and_o what_o a_o high_a measure_n of_o purity_n and_o sanctity_n they_o aim_v at_o namely_o the_o entire_a purification_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o all_o manner_n of_o terrestrial_a defilement_n and_o pollution_n and_o the_o raise_n up_o in_o it_o a_o divine_a and_o heavenly_a nature_n which_o be_v that_o state_n wherein_o we_o be_v at_o first_o create_v and_o into_o which_o we_o be_v recover_v by_o the_o gentle_a influence_n and_o illapse_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n upon_o we_o there_o be_v beget_v in_o our_o soul_n a_o daily_a tendency_n upward_o and_o a_o restless_a endeavour_n to_o free_v themselves_o from_o that_o preternatural_a load_n that_o hang_v about_o they_o and_o this_o effort_n of_o they_o receive_v fresh_a strength_n and_o supply_n from_o above_o never_o cease_v till_o it_o have_v wrought_v they_o to_o such_o a_o high_a pitch_n as_o through_o the_o benignity_n and_o power_n of_o he_o who_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n they_o may_v be_v translate_v into_o the_o peaceful_a mansion_n of_o everlasting_a glory_n we_o shall_v consider_v then_o the_o exquisite_a suitableness_n and_o serviceableness_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o the_o extirpation_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o vice_n and_o put_v man_n in_o possession_n of_o a_o holy_a and_o divine_a nature_n which_o sure_o be_v the_o most_o advantageous_a happiness_n the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o if_o religion_n be_v furnish_v with_o such_o power_n and_o assistance_n as_o will_v against_o all_o opposition_n whatever_o attain_v this_o great_a end_n than_o its_o usefulness_n to_o the_o world_n will_v be_v evident_o discover_v and_o no_o man_n will_v have_v any_o reason_n to_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o now_o that_o this_o end_n may_v be_v attain_v 1._o god_n be_v please_v to_o promise_v we_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o holy_a and_o bless_a spirit_n for_o we_o be_v so_o sink_v into_o this_o earthly_a state_n that_o we_o be_v whole_o carry_v away_o with_o its_o affection_n and_o lust_n can_v never_o by_o our_o own_o single_a effort_n and_o solitary_a endeavour_n bring_v ourselves_o back_o to_o the_o participation_n of_o that_o holy_a and_o divine_a life_n we_o fall_v from_o therefore_o god_n out_o of_o his_o infinite_a love_n and_o compassion_n and_o upon_o the_o intercession_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n have_v vouchsafe_v we_o the_o aid_n of_o his_o bless_a spirit_n to_o regenerate_v our_o nature_n and_o to_o form_n in_o we_o such_o a_o strong_a and_o active_a principle_n of_o holiness_n as_o shall_v steady_o carry_v our_o will_n to_o a_o perfect_a compliance_n and_o obedience_n to_o his_o holy_a will._n that_o we_o
jesus_n christ_n who_o take_v our_o flesh_n and_o blood_n upon_o he_o part_v with_o his_o own_o life_n to_o redeem_v we_o from_o a_o inevitable_a danger_n which_o will_v have_v undo_v we_o for_o ever_o and_o in_o recompense_n of_o this_o great_a love_n he_o desire_v we_o only_o to_o make_v ourselves_o happy_a by_o take_v upon_o we_o his_o easy_a yoke_n and_o light_a burden_n and_o can_v we_o be_v so_o ungrateful_a as_o to_o slight_v he_o for_o it_o and_o forget_v his_o command_n what_o band_n or_o cord_n can_v tie_v soul_n near_o together_o than_o that_o love_n which_o be_v strong_a than_o death_n or_o what_o word_n make_v deep_a impression_n upon_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n than_o those_o that_o be_v speak_v by_o their_o die_a friend_n it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o conceive_v a_o more_o effectual_a way_n to_o expel_v sin_n and_o wickedness_n and_o more_o conduce_v to_o the_o further_a of_o goodness_n and_o holiness_n than_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n for_o that_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o have_v no_o sin_n of_o his_o own_o to_o satisfy_v for_o shall_v descend_v from_o heaven_n and_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o weakness_n frailty_n and_o drudgery_n of_o our_o mortal_a state_n and_o endure_v such_o deep_a agony_n of_o spirit_n as_o force_v he_o to_o sweat_v drop_n of_o blood_n and_o after_o suffer_v a_o inglorious_a and_o painful_a death_n upon_o the_o cross_n and_o this_o mere_o upon_o our_o account_n and_o out_o of_o a_o mighty_a sense_n of_o compassion_n for_o our_o misery_n be_v so_o astonish_v a_o love_n as_o must_v needs_o thaw_v our_o icy_a heart_n and_o dissolve_v they_o into_o tear_n and_o a_o ready_a conformity_n to_o his_o will._n how_o can_v any_o man_n go_v on_o and_o continue_v in_o sin_n when_o he_o consider_v that_o his_o saviour_n come_v for_o this_o only_a end_n into_o the_o world_n that_o he_o may_v destroy_v the_o work_n of_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o present_v all_o man_n a_o glorious_a church_n to_o god_n without_o spot_n or_o wrinkle_n whatever_o sin_n therefore_o it_o be_v that_o assault_v thy_o soul_n present_a unto_o it_o thy_o die_a saviour_n who_o with_o his_o outstretch_v arm_n on_o the_o cross_n sue_v for_o admittance_n into_o thy_o strong_a affection_n be_v thou_o ensnare_v with_o pride_n how_o can_v thou_o look_v upon_o thyself_o without_o watery_a eye_n when_o thou_o behold_v the_o son_n of_o god_n bear_v a_o helpless_a infant_n of_o a_o poor_a virgin_n subject_n to_o all_o the_o hardship_n and_o sinless_a infirmity_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o at_o last_o breathe_v out_o his_o innocent_a soul_n on_o the_o cross_n for_o his_o bitter_a enemy_n be_v thou_o covetous_a and_o too_o desirous_a of_o worldly_a enjoyment_n then_o remember_v judas_n and_o consider_v what_o a_o heinous_a and_o bloody_a act_n his_o covetousness_n betray_v he_o to_o even_o the_o deliver_n up_o his_o harmless_a lord_n and_o master_n to_o the_o malicious_a and_o implacable_a jew_n and_o whoever_o set_v his_o heart_n upon_o the_o world_n he_o do_v with_o judas_n sell_v his_o saviour_n thus_o you_o may_v see_v of_o what_o great_a usefulness_n this_o one_o consideration_n of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o the_o mortification_n of_o all_o our_o sin_n and_o this_o the_o gospel_n every_o where_o hold_v forth_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n that_o we_o shall_v express_v his_o death_n on_o the_o cross_n in_o our_o soul_n by_o our_o die_v unto_o sin_n and_o crucify_a all_o our_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o affection_n 4._o another_o powerful_a mean_n by_o which_o man_n be_v draw_v off_o from_o their_o sin_n and_o engage_v in_o holiness_n be_v the_o example_n of_o our_o holy_a lord_n and_o master_n who_o life_n and_o action_n be_v therefore_o careful_o write_v by_o his_o disciple_n that_o man_n may_v learn_v of_o he_o and_o follow_v his_o step_n and_o that_o we_o may_v more_o clear_o discover_v wherein_o we_o be_v to_o imitate_v and_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n we_o must_v distinguish_v between_o those_o action_n which_o our_o lord_n do_v as_o a_o public_a person_n invest_v with_o authority_n from_o heaven_n as_o likewise_o those_o action_n of_o he_o which_o he_o do_v to_o confirm_v his_o mission_n we_o must_v distinguish_v these_o i_o say_v from_o those_o wherein_o he_o be_v set_v as_o a_o example_n for_o we_o to_o imitate_v 1._o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o call_v to_o imitate_v christ_n in_o those_o action_n which_o he_o perform_v as_o a_o public_a person_n for_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n which_o he_o do_v that_o relate_v whole_o to_o his_o office_n as_o he_o be_v the_o messiah_n the_o great_a representative_a of_o mankind_n who_o take_v upon_o he_o and_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n to_o reconcile_v the_o world_n to_o god._n thus_o he_o give_v new_a law_n of_o life_n to_o man_n and_o forgive_v sin_n by_o his_o own_o power_n and_o authority_n and_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n as_o a_o public_a victim_n and_o sacrifice_n for_o the_o world_n to_o these_o we_o may_v add_v his_o fast_v forty_o day_n and_o forty_o night_n his_o lead_v a_o single_a life_n and_o refuse_v all_o earthly_a honour_n and_o dignity_n and_o hitherto_o likewise_o we_o may_v refer_v that_o action_n of_o zeal_n wherewith_o our_o lord_n be_v possess_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o in_o behalf_n of_o the_o despise_a gentile_n against_o a_o corrupt_a generation_n who_o only_o pretend_v but_o have_v real_o nothing_o of_o true_a zeal_n or_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n in_o they_o when_o as_o st._n matthew_n relate_v it_o chap._n 21.12_o he_o go_v into_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o cast_v out_o all_o they_o that_o sell_v and_o buy_v in_o the_o temple_n and_o overthrow_v the_o table_n of_o the_o money-changer_n and_o the_o seat_n of_o they_o that_o sell_v dove_n 2._o nor_o be_v we_o call_v to_o follow_v and_o imitate_v christ_n in_o those_o action_n which_o he_o do_v to_o testify_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o mission_n that_o he_o come_v from_o god_n and_o act_v by_o his_o sole_a authority_n such_o be_v all_o his_o miraculous_a work_n his_o give_a sight_n to_o the_o blind_a speech_n to_o the_o dumb_a and_o hear_v to_o the_o deaf_a his_o command_v the_o wind_n and_o wave_n of_o the_o sea_n which_o instant_o obey_v he_o his_o multiply_a bread_n according_a to_o his_o own_o pleasure_n so_o that_o a_o few_o loaf_n shall_v be_v sufficient_a to_o satisfy_v some_o thousand_o of_o eater_n his_o cure_v all_o bodily_a disease_n and_o distemper_n and_o show_v his_o power_n over_o evil_a spirit_n which_o upon_o his_o sole_a command_n and_o word_n be_v force_v to_o leave_v those_o body_n they_o have_v vex_v and_o torment_v but_o above_o all_o his_o raise_v the_o dead_a to_o life_n show_v that_o he_o have_v a_o power_n not_o only_o here_o but_o in_o the_o region_n of_o separate_a soul_n likewise_o now_o in_o neither_o of_o these_o be_v we_o call_v to_o imitate_v our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n but_o though_o we_o be_v not_o enjoin_v to_o follow_v he_o in_o these_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o therefore_o throw_v away_o or_o record_v to_o no_o purpose_n we_o may_v make_v a_o good_a use_n of_o every_o one_o of_o these_o action_n of_o our_o saviour_n though_o we_o lie_v under_o no_o necessity_n to_o imitate_v he_o in_o they_o nay_o it_o be_v a_o presumption_n in_o we_o so_o to_o do_v when_o we_o read_v that_o he_o fast_v forty_o day_n we_o may_v learn_v that_o the_o further_o we_o withdraw_v our_o mind_n from_o bodily_a lust_n and_o affection_n we_o be_v in_o a_o great_a forwardness_n and_o better_a disposition_n to_o converse_v with_o god._n when_o we_o hear_v that_o our_o saviour_n christ_n steadfast_o decline_v all_o earthly_a dignity_n and_o honour_n it_o show_v we_o what_o a_o light_a esteem_n god_n put_v upon_o these_o thing_n in_o comparison_n of_o the_o participation_n of_o his_o nature_n in_o true_a goodness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o so_o of_o all_o our_o lord_n be_v miraculous_a action_n which_o be_v as_o so_o many_o credential_n and_o seal_n from_o heaven_n that_o attest_v and_o verify_v his_o commission_n and_o the_o authority_n by_o which_o he_o act_v there_o be_v something_o still_o that_o we_o may_v draw_v for_o our_o encouragement_n and_o support_v in_o that_o holy_a and_o unblameable_a life_n which_o he_o come_v to_o propagate_v in_o the_o world_n when_o we_o find_v he_o by_o a_o miracle_n redress_v the_o infirmity_n of_o mankind_n and_o ease_v they_o of_o their_o sorrow_n by_o cure_v their_o bodily_a distemper_n do_v not_o this_o teach_v we_o to_o be_v of_o a_o compassionate_a temper_n to_o sympathize_v with_o other_o in_o their_o misery_n and_o as_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a to_o lend_v our_o assist_a hand_n to_o free_v they_o from_o they_o when_o
abundance_n yet_o he_o be_v better_a satisfy_v to_o die_v poor_a than_o to_o become_v rich_a by_o the_o spoil_n of_o widow_n and_o orphan_n by_o the_o art_n and_o intrigue_n of_o fraud_n deceit_n and_o circumvention_n of_o other_o which_o be_v the_o usual_a method_n of_o grow_v rich_a in_o the_o world_n however_o it_o remain_v equal_o firm_a that_o the_o good_a honest_a frugal_a and_o diligent_a person_n be_v in_o the_o sure_a way_n to_o prosper_v and_o that_o he_o that_o pursue_v nothing_o as_o his_o ultimate_a end_n but_o the_o true_a love_n of_o god_n and_o virtue_n be_v invisible_o make_v successful_a in_o his_o outward_a circumstance_n by_o a_o favourable_a and_o kind_a providence_n by_o this_o deduction_n of_o particular_n it_o be_v evident_a how_o much_o religion_n contribute_v to_o our_o happiness_n in_o this_o life_n and_o from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v we_o see_v the_o great_a worth_n and_o excellency_n of_o true_a christianity_n who_o salutary_a influence_n and_o effect_n we_o experience_v both_o in_o this_o life_n and_o the_o other_o as_o for_o vice_n it_o be_v of_o such_o a_o pitiful_a and_o crazy_a nature_n that_o it_o can_v stand_v upon_o its_o own_o leg_n but_o be_v force_v to_o use_v the_o shadow_n and_o countenance_n of_o virtue_n for_o its_o support_n no_o man_n dare_v to_o own_o or_o make_v a_o profession_n of_o vice_n for_o itself_o but_o evermore_o cover_v it_o with_o some_o sanctimonious_a colour_n and_o disguise_n judge_v then_o what_o worth_a or_o value_n can_v there_o be_v in_o that_o which_o be_v not_o able_a to_o uphold_v itself_o but_o be_v betray_v by_o its_o very_a weakness_n let_v not_o then_o our_o ungovernable_a appetite_n deprive_v we_o of_o that_o happiness_n which_o be_v entail_v upon_o a_o virtuous_a life_n this_o will_v stand_v by_o we_o and_o support_v we_o in_o all_o estate_n it_o be_v the_o grace_n and_o glory_n of_o our_o youth_n to_o be_v find_v virtuous_a and_o good_a and_o it_o will_v be_v the_o comfort_n of_o our_o old_a age_n when_o we_o have_v pass_v our_o day_n and_o need_v no_o repentance_n virtue_n make_v the_o best_a provision_n for_o the_o happiness_n of_o man_n in_o this_o life_n for_o if_o we_o will_v enjoy_v a_o long_a and_o prosperous_a life_n here_o there_o be_v no_o sure_a way_n to_o it_o than_o through_o the_o path_n of_o holiness_n length_n of_o day_n be_v in_o her_o right-hand_a and_o in_o her_o lefthand_n riches_n and_o honour_n will_v we_o transact_v our_o life_n in_o tranquillity_n and_o pleasure_n there_o be_v no_o peace_n so_o last_v no_o pleasure_n so_o pure_a as_o that_o which_o spring_v from_o a_o honest_a heart_n the_o way_n of_o religion_n be_v way_n of_o pleasantness_n and_o all_o her_o path_n be_v peace_n indeed_o if_o we_o be_v only_o in_o love_n with_o sensual_a pleasure_n and_o make_v it_o our_o whole_a business_n to_o pursue_v the_o satisfaction_n of_o brute_n we_o can_v never_o attain_v to_o any_o grateful_a and_o affect_a relish_n of_o holiness_n because_o virtue_n be_v a_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v see_v with_o corporeal_a eye_n nor_o can_v the_o true_a discriminate_a sense_n of_o it_o be_v discern_v by_o the_o outward_a taste_n but_o there_o be_v a_o inward_a sense_n which_o be_v only_o awaken_v by_o the_o constant_a and_o serious_a act_n of_o religion_n that_o give_v a_o true_a representation_n of_o virtue_n and_o affect_v the_o mind_n with_o the_o solid_a pleasure_n of_o religion_n holiness_n be_v of_o a_o permanent_a and_o stable_a nature_n who_o comfortable_a influence_n be_v most_o discernible_a in_o the_o worst_a state_n of_o thing_n and_o never_o leave_v nor_o forsake_v a_o man_n in_o the_o agony_n of_o death_n itself_o but_o alas_o what_o be_v all_o bodily_a delight_n with_o which_o the_o life_n of_o man_n be_v so_o much_o take_v up_o how_o frail_a and_o evanid_a how_o fleet_a and_o uncertain_a and_o how_o void_a of_o all_o true_a satisfaction_n and_o content_a what_o remain_v then_o but_o that_o we_o serious_o put_v in_o practice_n all_o the_o act_n of_o unfeigned_a piety_n and_o religion_n which_o if_o we_o have_v any_o care_n of_o our_o best_a interest_n we_o be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o for_o whether_o we_o consider_v christianity_n as_o to_o its_o usefulness_n to_o the_o next_o life_n or_o its_o serviceableness_n to_o this_o in_o both_o these_o case_n the_o profit_n and_o advantage_n of_o it_o evident_o appear_v and_o now_o have_v finish_v what_o i_o have_v to_o say_v upon_o this_o text_n i_o shall_v conclude_v with_o this_o that_o christianity_n be_v so_o frame_v in_o all_o its_o part_n that_o no_o man_n have_v any_o the_o least_o shadow_n of_o reason_n to_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o bless_a lord_n who_o have_v cause_v all_o holy_a scripture_n to_o be_v write_v for_o our_o learning_n grant_v that_o we_o may_v in_o such_o wise_a hear_v they_o read_z mark_v learn_v and_o inward_o digest_v they_o that_o by_o patience_n and_o comfort_n of_o thy_o holy_a word_n we_o may_v embrace_v and_o ever_o hold_v fast_o the_o bless_a hope_n of_o everlasting_a life_n which_o thou_o have_v give_v we_o in_o our_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n amen_n finis_fw-la see_v a_o late_a treatise_n entitle_v a_o letter_n to_o a_o deist_n john_n 20.29_o 1_o tim._n 4.9_o see_v dr._n cudworth_n intel._n sy_v l._n 1._o c._n 4._o p._n 468._o de_fw-fr deo_fw-la socratis_n caesar_n comment_fw-fr mat._n 24.31_o psal_n 4.8_o prov._n 12.21_o prov._n 14.34_o eccles_n 8.1_o
that_o if_o they_o will_v recant_v what_o they_o have_v say_v to_o jesus_n and_o leave_v off_o speak_v any_o more_o in_o his_o name_n they_o may_v enjoy_v their_o ease_n and_o quiet_v and_o perhaps_o have_v some_o reward_n into_o the_o bargain_n but_o if_o they_o will_v persist_v and_o go_v on_o they_o must_v look_v for_o the_o sharp_a trial_n and_o persecution_n which_o indeed_o these_o holy_a man_n meet_v withal_o almost_o in_o all_o place_n where_o they_o come_v now_o have_v the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n from_o the_o dead_a be_v only_o a_o feign_a story_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o rest_n that_o have_v combine_v to_o spread_v it_o abroad_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o while_o they_o meet_v with_o no_o hazard_n nor_o danger_n they_o may_v carry_v on_o the_o cheat_n yet_o when_o life_n lie_v at_o stake_n it_o be_v very_o hard_a to_o think_v that_o any_o one_o will_v die_v for_o that_o which_o he_o know_v to_o be_v a_o untruth_n but_o here_o we_o find_v in_o this_o case_n that_o the_o apostle_n free_o and_o joyful_o venture_v their_o life_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o and_o the_o most_o of_o they_o actual_o lose_v their_o life_n for_o it_o now_o he_o must_v be_v of_o a_o very_a easy_a and_o credulous_a nature_n and_o fit_a for_o nothing_o but_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o that_o can_v believe_v so_o many_o man_n of_o good_a sense_n and_o sound_a understanding_n will_v die_v for_o a_o story_n of_o their_o own_o invention_n and_o which_o their_o own_o conscience_n will_v tell_v they_o be_v a_o notorious_a falsehood_n by_o what_o have_v be_v say_v it_o be_v apparent_a that_o there_o be_v as_o high_a and_o full_a a_o testimony_n give_v to_o the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v give_v to_o any_o matter_n of_o fact_n and_o this_o be_v put_v out_o of_o doubt_n there_o can_v be_v no_o scruple_n leave_v for_o any_o of_o the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o history_n of_o the_o gospel_n since_o the_o same_o person_n that_o attest_v the_o one_o do_v likewise_o assure_v to_o the_o world_n the_o other_o that_o be_v the_o same_o argument_n which_o convince_v we_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n resurrection_n do_v likewise_o establish_v we_o in_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o whole_a christian_a religion_n neither_o do_v i_o know_v what_o can_v with_o any_o colour_n be_v object_v against_o this_o unless_o man_n out_o of_o a_o obstinate_a humour_n will_v rather_o adhere_v to_o that_o poor_a subterfuge_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o for_o the_o spread_a abroad_o of_o which_o they_o give_v large_a money_n to_o the_o soldier_n viz._n that_o his_o disciple_n come_v by_o night_n and_o steal_v he_o away_o while_o the_o watch_n sleep_v which_o because_o by_o it_o they_o intend_v to_o discredit_v our_o saviour_n and_o his_o doctrine_n i_o shall_v show_v how_o vain_a it_o be_v 1._o it_o be_v not_o likely_a the_o disciple_n who_o flee_v from_o he_o when_o he_o be_v take_v and_o the_o stout_a of_o they_o deny_v he_o shall_v now_o that_o he_o be_v dead_a venture_v to_o steal_v his_o body_n from_o a_o guard_n of_o soldier_n 2._o how_o improbable_a be_v it_o that_o all_o the_o watch_n shall_v be_v asleep_a at_o one_o time_n 3._o if_o they_o be_v all_o asleep_a how_o can_v they_o tell_v that_o the_o disciple_n take_v he_o away_o and_o not_o that_o he_o arise_v from_o the_o dead_a by_o the_o mighty_a power_n of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v 4._o how_o can_v it_o be_v that_o the_o disciple_n shall_v come_v just_a at_o that_o very_a time_n when_o they_o be_v all_o asleep_a 5._o how_o can_v they_o go_v so_o silent_o to_o work_v as_o to_o roll_v away_o the_o stone_n and_o to_o take_v out_o the_o body_n all_o which_o will_v have_v make_v some_o noise_n and_o take_v up_o some_o time_n and_o yet_o none_o of_o the_o watch_n hear_v they_o beside_o there_o be_v another_o circumstance_n which_o can_v well_o agree_v with_o the_o haste_n and_o fear_v these_o poor_a disciple_n must_v needs_o be_v in_o in_o such_o a_o attempt_n and_o that_o be_v that_o care_n which_o be_v take_v to_o lay_v the_o linen_n clothes_n by_o themselves_o in_o the_o sepulchre_n luke_n 24.12_o and_o yet_o the_o napkin_n that_o be_v about_o his_o head_n do_v not_o lie_v with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o linen_n clothes_n but_o be_v wrap_v together_o in_o a_o place_n by_o itself_o joh._n 20.7_o which_o be_v the_o most_o unlikely_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n that_o the_o disciple_n shall_v be_v so_o curious_a in_o sort_v the_o linen_n which_o they_o will_v either_o have_v take_v away_o with_o the_o body_n or_o at_o least_o not_o have_v spend_v time_n to_o wrap_v it_o so_o careful_o together_o 6._o last_o suppose_v they_o have_v take_v away_o the_o body_n quid_fw-la ex_fw-la cadavere_fw-la emolumenti_fw-la what_o benefit_n can_v they_o hope_v from_o a_o dead_a carcase_n will_v that_o be_v enough_o to_o make_v they_o forsake_v their_o dear_a relation_n to_o lay_v aside_o the_o sentiment_n and_o opinion_n in_o which_o they_o have_v for_o a_o long_a time_n be_v educate_v and_o instruct_v to_o expose_v themselves_o to_o a_o thousand_o vexatious_a reproach_n and_o at_o last_o to_o a_o vile_a and_o ignominious_a death_n and_o all_o to_o maintain_v the_o credit_n of_o a_o person_n that_o have_v so_o gross_o frustrate_v their_o expectation_n sure_o he_o that_o can_v believe_v such_o thing_n of_o the_o apostle_n must_v offer_v the_o great_a violence_n in_o the_o world_n not_o only_o to_o his_o own_o but_o to_o the_o understanding_n of_o all_o mankind_n and_o now_o we_o can_v but_o see_v the_o unreasonableness_n of_o infidelity_n that_o it_o must_v be_v either_o a_o very_a crooked_a and_o untoward_a education_n or_o a_o obstinate_a base_a and_o perverse_a spirit_n that_o carry_v man_n with_o so_o much_o contempt_n and_o scorn_n against_o the_o belief_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n for_o if_o these_o person_n be_v ask_v upon_o what_o account_n they_o give_v credit_n to_o thucydides_n history_n of_o the_o peloponnesian_a war_n or_o plutarch_n life_n or_o any_o other_o ancient_a historian_n they_o must_v say_v that_o the_o constant_a and_o universal_a consent_n of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o judicious_a have_v all_o along_o determine_v those_o person_n to_o be_v the_o author_n of_o those_o book_n and_o that_o they_o be_v person_n of_o credit_n and_o veracity_n and_o be_v it_o not_o mere_a frowardness_n humour_n and_o fantastickness_n to_o reject_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n hand_v down_o successive_o for_o sixteen_o hundred_o year_n and_o upward_o concern_v the_o book_n of_o the_o new-testament_n let_v they_o but_o have_v the_o same_o temper_n and_o disposition_n of_o mind_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o history_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o they_o retain_v in_o behalf_n of_o the_o forementioned_a historian_n and_o they_o must_v of_o necessity_n confess_v that_o there_o be_v at_o least_o as_o many_o and_o as_o weighty_a motive_n of_o credibility_n for_o that_o as_o possible_o can_v be_v excogitated_a for_o these_o moreover_o according_a to_o the_o different_a nature_n of_o thing_n there_o be_v different_a way_n of_o probation_n and_o no_o man_n will_v expect_v a_o mathematical_a demonstration_n to_o prove_v a_o moral_a proposition_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o every_o ingenuous_a nature_n that_o there_o be_v as_o full_a and_o clear_a evidence_n as_o the_o matter_n can_v bear_v hence_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n though_o it_o may_v seem_v more_o satisfactory_a to_o have_v see_v he_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v with_o a_o man_n be_v own_o eye_n yet_o pronounce_v they_o bless_v that_o have_v not_o see_v 20.29_o and_o yet_o have_v believe_v intimate_v that_o it_o be_v a_o more_o generous_a faith_n to_o believe_v unsuspected_a witness_n upon_o the_o full_a and_o clear_a evidence_n of_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n than_o if_o this_o faith_n be_v constrain_v and_o as_o it_o be_v necessitate_v by_o ocular_a demonstration_n hence_o we_o may_v understand_v the_o meaning_n of_o those_o word_n of_o our_o saviour_n mat._n 12.32_o and_o whosoever_o speak_v a_o word_n against_o the_o son_n of_o man_n it_o shall_v be_v forgive_v he_o but_o whosoever_o speak_v against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n it_o shall_v not_o be_v forgive_v he_o neither_o in_o this_o world_n neither_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v that_o be_v though_o it_o be_v a_o great_a sin_n not_o to_o believe_v our_o saviour_n to_o be_v send_v from_o god_n after_o he_o have_v give_v such_o manifest_a proof_n of_o it_o by_o his_o numerous_a and_o stupendous_a miracle_n yet_o the_o sin_n be_v not_o come_v to_o its_o height_n because_o there_o want_v yet_o further_o evidence_n our_o lord_n be_v not_o yet_o rise_v from_o the_o dead_a but_o after_o his_o resurrection_n and_o ascension_n into_o heaven_n and_o as_o a_o confirmation_n of_o this_o the_o
mission_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n upon_o the_o apostle_n who_o be_v also_o one_o of_o christ_n witness_n than_o the_o sin_n become_v deadly_a because_o the_o last_o mean_n be_v use_v and_o the_o full_a proof_n of_o credibility_n give_v that_o can_v be_v expect_v for_o matter_n of_o fact_n that_o be_v there_o be_v every_o thing_n do_v which_o may_v procure_v belief_n in_o a_o disinterest_v person_n and_o therefore_o for_o any_o obstinate_o to_o contradict_v this_o be_v quite_o to_o prescind_v his_o own_o hope_n and_o shut_v the_o door_n against_o himself_o by_o wilful_o reject_v all_o those_o argument_n which_o may_v and_o ought_v to_o have_v gain_v belief_n i_o pray_v god_n open_v the_o eye_n of_o those_o who_o slight_a and_o undervalue_v christianity_n as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 4.9_o a_o faithful_a and_o true_a word_n and_o every_o way_n worthy_a to_o be_v receive_v that_o they_o may_v timely_o see_v and_o repent_v of_o their_o error_n and_o through_o a_o sincere_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v eternal_o save_v a_o defence_n of_o reveal_v religion_n sermon_n ii_o rome_n i._o 16._o for_o i_o be_o not_o ashamed_a of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n we_o have_v show_v from_o these_o word_n that_o the_o history_n of_o the_o life_n and_o action_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n his_o death_n resurrection_n and_o ascension_n into_o heaven_n be_v true_a and_o be_v so_o we_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o be_v ashamed_a of_o our_o religion_n which_o be_v build_v upon_o these_o thing_n truth_n be_v a_o thing_n that_o none_o need_v to_o be_v ashamed_a of_o because_o it_o be_v a_o perfection_n a_o ray_n and_o beam_n that_o descend_v from_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o all_o truth_n now_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o history_n of_o the_o gospel_n depend_v upon_o the_o veracity_n of_o those_o that_o write_v it_o we_o show_v that_o the_o apostle_n can_v not_o be_v deceive_v because_o they_o be_v present_a and_o eye-witness_n of_o the_o thing_n they_o set_v down_o and_o we_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o suspect_v they_o will_v deceive_v other_o because_o they_o may_v have_v be_v discover_v and_o beside_o have_v no_o self-end_n nor_o design_n in_o broach_v a_o falsehood_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a be_v ready_a to_o sacrifice_v their_o own_o life_n for_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o they_o say_v and_o last_o that_o they_o give_v as_o high_a a_o testimony_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n on_o which_o all_o his_o other_o miracle_n depend_v as_o possible_o can_v be_v give_v by_o man_n to_o any_o thing_n or_o matter_n in_o the_o world_n 2._o the_o next_o cause_n of_o shame_n be_v if_o the_o doctrine_n deliver_v to_o we_o be_v not_o rational_a therefore_o we_o come_v now_o to_o show_v that_o christianity_n or_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v rational_a that_o be_v agreeable_a with_o those_o common_a notion_n of_o reason_n and_o understanding_n which_o god_n have_v plant_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o all_o mankind_n and_o indeed_o if_o we_o believe_v that_o it_o be_v true_a and_o come_v from_o god_n it_o must_v necessary_o follow_v that_o there_o can_v be_v nothing_o contain_v in_o it_o that_o be_v unreasonable_a forasmuch_o as_o god_n be_v the_o high_a reason_n can_v be_v the_o author_n of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v unreasonable_a for_o than_o he_o will_v be_v the_o author_n of_o something_o unlike_o himself_o and_o that_o have_v no_o analogy_n or_o correspondence_n with_o any_o of_o his_o attribute_n and_o therefore_o to_o affirm_v that_o god_n can_v propound_v to_o we_o what_o be_v altogether_o irrational_a and_o bear_v no_o harmony_n or_o agreement_n with_o any_o of_o our_o faculty_n be_v to_o make_v he_o the_o author_n of_o nonsense_n contradiction_n and_o impossibility_n reason_n be_v that_o light_n and_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o he_o have_v set_v up_o in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n to_o guide_v they_o safe_a from_o error_n falsehood_n and_o delusion_n and_o when_o we_o say_v a_o thing_n be_v reasonable_a we_o say_v that_o it_o have_v a_o conformity_n with_o those_o intellectual_a principle_n the_o sovereign_a author_n of_o our_o being_n have_v plant_v in_o we_o there_o be_v a_o suitableness_n and_o agreeableness_n of_o such_o thing_n with_o the_o rational_a frame_n and_o make_v of_o our_o own_o soul_n therefore_o the_o apostle_n call_v our_o conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n which_o he_o term_v rom._n 12.1_o a_o present_v our_o body_n a_o live_a sacrifice_n holy_a and_o acceptable_a unto_o god_n a_o reasonable_a service_n that_o be_v such_o a_o worship_n as_o if_o we_o understand_v ourselves_o be_v fit_v and_o accommodate_v to_o our_o natural_a faculty_n of_o reason_n and_o understanding_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o st._n peter_n bid_v we_o to_o be_v ready_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o give_v a_o answer_n or_o make_v a_o apology_n to_o every_o man_n that_o ask_v we_o a_o reason_n of_o the_o hope_n that_o be_v in_o we_o i_o e._n he_o will_v have_v we_o prepare_v to_o give_v a_o satisfactory_a and_o rational_a account_n why_o we_o be_v christian_n but_o now_o if_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n in_o christian_a religion_n that_o be_v unreasonable_a what_o apology_n can_v be_v make_v for_o it_o or_o how_o shall_v any_o man_n defend_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v whole_o contrary_a to_o that_o light_n which_o god_n have_v set_v up_o in_o his_o soul_n to_o discern_v between_o truth_n and_o falsehood_n so_o that_o if_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n upon_o we_o to_o give_v a_o reason_n of_o our_o faith_n than_o we_o may_v be_v sure_a there_o be_v no_o part_n of_o it_o unreasonable_a but_o here_o we_o must_v note_v in_o the_o mean_a time_n that_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o say_v that_o there_o be_v some_o article_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n above_o humane_a reason_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o say_v they_o be_v unreasonable_a or_o contrary_a to_o sound_v reason_n the_o frame_n of_o christianity_n itself_o be_v call_v by_o st._n paul_n 1_o tim._n 3.16_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o great_a mystery_n and_o a_o mystery_n we_o know_v must_v have_v something_o hide_a and_o recondit_fw-la in_o it_o which_o be_v discern_v only_o by_o capable_a mind_n and_o there_o may_v be_v and_o doubtless_o be_v some_o sacred_a and_o hide_a doctrine_n in_o christian_a religion_n above_o humane_a reason_n in_o this_o sense_n viz._n that_o our_o reason_n can_v never_o have_v light_v upon_o they_o or_o find_v they_o out_o without_o a_o divine_a revelation_n but_o notwithstanding_o these_o mysterious_a truth_n be_v very_o agreeable_a with_o our_o reason_n now_o they_o be_v discover_v and_o there_o be_v a_o rational_a defence_n to_o be_v make_v for_o they_o and_o a_o satisfactory_a account_n to_o be_v give_v of_o every_o one_o of_o they_o we_o can_v never_o by_o the_o bare_a help_n of_o reason_n have_v know_v any_o thing_n of_o the_o union_n of_o god_n with_o humane_a nature_n nor_o discover_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o sacred_a trinity_n nor_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o our_o body_n nor_o the_o joy_n and_o felicity_n of_o heaven_n if_o god_n have_v not_o reveal_v these_o thing_n to_o we_o but_o now_o that_o they_o be_v make_v a_o part_n of_o our_o faith_n we_o can_v show_v that_o none_o of_o they_o be_v contradictory_n to_o the_o principle_n of_o sound_a reason_n if_o therefore_o there_o be_v any_o unreasonableness_n in_o christianity_n it_o must_v arise_v either_o 1._o from_o the_o frame_n and_o contexture_n of_o it_o or_o 2._o from_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o it_o that_o there_o be_v no_o unreasonableness_n or_o incongruity_n in_o the_o frame_n of_o christianity_n will_v appear_v thus_o the_o great_a end_n and_o design_n of_o it_o be_v to_o release_v and_o free_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n from_o a_o state_n of_o sin_n and_o evil_a into_o which_o they_o have_v unhappy_o plunge_v themselves_o and_o to_o recover_v they_o into_o a_o holy_a blameless_a and_o heavenly_a life_n and_o nature_n that_o behave_v themselves_o harmless_o and_o unblamable_o as_o the_o child_n of_o god_n though_o encompass_v with_o many_o hardship_n and_o affliction_n which_o they_o meet_v withal_o in_o their_o passage_n through_o the_o wilderness_n of_o this_o world_n they_o may_v at_o last_o through_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n arrive_v by_o orderly_a step_n and_o degree_n to_o the_o land_n of_o righteousness_n their_o ancient_a inheritance_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n this_o be_v the_o free_a counsel_n and_o determination_n of_o almighty_a god_n which_o flow_v only_o from_o his_o immense_a and_o boundless_a love_n now_o the_o method_n and_o way_n which_o god_n have_v make_v choice_n of_o to_o bring_v this_o great_a design_n about_o be_v such_o so_o fit_v and_o adapt_v to_o to_o our_o case_n and_o condition_n and_o so_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n