the hand and power of sin Satan death and hell bring them into his Church and kingdome by effectual calling and regeneration and to govern them by his word and spirit to life everlasting John 10.16 Haggai 2 7. Ezek. 34.23 24. Also there must be a particular and distinct knowledge in some measure of the moral law of God and of the Sacraments Of the law of God a brief sum of which we have contained in the Decalogue or Ten Commandments which contains the duty we doe owe to God and Man what is evil and what we are to repent of shun and avoid and what we are to do and practice how we are to carry our selves both towards God in all duties of piety and holiness and towards man our selves and others in the duties of mercy justice and equity The Sacraments also There must be a particular knowledge of the Sacraments of the new Testament viz. Baptism the Lords Supper Baptism is a Sacrament of our ingrafting into Christ communion with him and entrance into the Church Mat. 28.19 Rom. 6.3 4. It signifies the washing away of sin from the Soul by the blood of Christ and the renewing graces of his Spirit and so our justification and forgiveness of sinnes and our sanctification Mark 1.4 Acts 2.38 Titus 3.5 And binds all that have been baptized to believe in Christ forsake sin and live holy according to the command of God Acts 8.37 38. Mat. 3.8 Rom. 6.3 4 5. Baptism it a priviledge which belongs to all the Infants of believing Christian Parents Mark 10.13 14. When some would have hindred the Parents from bringing their young children to Christ to bless them his Disciples rebuked those that brought them but when Jesus saw it he was much displeased and said Suffer little children to come unto me and forbid them not for of such is the kingdom of God 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 of these and such like is the kingdome of God If little children 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Infants Children new borne as Luke hath it Luke 18.15 be within the Covenant as they are then they ought to have the Seal of the Covenant and if they be of Gods kingdome his subjects then they must wear his Livery and badge Infants are now as capable of receiving Baptism and the benefits of it as the Infants of the Jews were to receive Circumcision and what is now objected against Infant-baptism might as well have been alleadged against the Jews circumcising their children therefore to lay aside or deny Infant-baptism to the children of believing Christians is in effect to make themselves wiser then God I will add but one argument That which was commanded and practised by the people of God for two thousand years yea and much more was approved and commanded of God and is no where forbidden or repealed is still to be used but the sealing of the Infants of believers with the first seal of the Covenant was commanded practised by the people of God so long also approved and commanded of God and 't is no where repealed or forbidden shew it if any can therefore it is still a duty to be observed by Christian believing Parents Object It is objected that Infant-baptism is no where commanded in the new Testament nor any express example and we must do nothing without divine warrant Answ True but this is sufficient warrant to give the first seal of the Covenant to Infants was expresly commanded in the old Testament and is no where repealed or forbidden therefore a duty still as the observation of the Lords day or Christian Sabbath is by the fourth Commandment Besides there are express general commands to baptize Infants in the New Testament as Mat. 28.19 Act. 2.38 39. and general examples of whole housholds and 't is much more then probable there were many children in them let them prove the contrary if they can men had need to have cleer express Scripture to lay aside a duty commanded and approved of God so long practised by the godly by the whole Church of God It troubles me to see and hear that any professing godliness should be so far deceived and be so injurious to themselves their poor Infants as to deny to give them that priviledge and favour which undoubtedly Christ allows and intends whose grace and priviledges are not less to the children under the Gospel then to them under the Law but rather much more That place most think is full Rom. 11.17 The Gentiles being ingrafted into the true Olive-tree do partake of the root and fatness of the Olive-tree of all the priviledges of the Jews the true Church of God whereof Abraham was the root and father of which to be within the Covenant to be members of the Church of God and have the first Seal of the Covenant which now is baptism is one and when they come to years the Sacrament of the Lords supper also I will add but this If Christ under the Gospel hath barred Infants of believing Parents of the Sacrament of Baptism then it is either in mercy or in judgement let them that deny Infant-Baptism make their answer I know readily what to reply But I now study brevity brief hints onely not large treatises 2. The Sacrament of the Lords Supper is also an ordinance instituded by Jesus Christ in the same night in which he was betrayed to be a Sacrament of our continuance and growth in Christ to represent and signifie the body and blood of Christ crucifyed for our sins together with all the benefits of his suffering and death 1 Cor. 10.16 and 11.23 24 25 26. To be a special token and pledge of his great love in suffering and dying for lost and miserable sinners and enemies Rom. 5.6 7 8. The end is to confirm our faith in Christ communion with him and all saving graces in us but it cannot confirm these where they are not to keep in remembrance the Lords death until he come again and to testify our love one to another 1 Cor. 10.16 1 Cor. 11.24 26. 1 Cor. 12.13 These and all other grounds and principles of the Christian Religion at least those which are absolutely necessary to life and salvation must be known and understood for without a particular distinct knowledge of these doctrines of faith and godliness in some measure there can be neither saving faith nor repentance nor love nor holiness in truth without which there can be no salvation John 17.3 Isai 53.11 This is life eternal to know thee the only true God and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent Prov. 19.2 Without knowledge the minde is not good Hos 4.6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledg Particularly concerning the Sacrament consider 1 Cor. 11.27 29. Whosoever shall eat this bread and drink this cup of the Lord unworthily is guilty of the body and blood of the Lord and eateth and drinketh damnation to himself Mark the reason in the next words not discerning the Lords body 2 Thes 1.7 8 9 10. The Lord Jesus shall
own devices It is true indeed one sinner we read of the good Thief on the Cross repented at his last hour and found mercy but we do not read of any more in the whole Bible that did so and his conversion was miraculous and extraordinary to confirm the truth of Christs doctrine calling and authority to be the Messiah and Saviour one that none who through ignorance or neglect have put off repentance might despair and yet but one that none might presume as Augustine well observed 5. Consider how absurd how unjust and unreasonable it is that any should give the first best of their days wit parts and strength to the service of sin the world and the Devil as all natural unregenerate and impenitent men and women do and the last and worst of their parts and abilities to God when they can do little or nothing for God who in all reason and upon everlasting obligations should have the first best last and all the time and abilities they have It is our duty to give all to him and his due upon most weighty considerations as of his creating us of nothing preserving sustaining with food rayment in health peace and also by our solemn engagement at Baptisme to be the Lords renewed at the Lords supper vows in our sicknesses weaknesses streights and dangers would any of us be willing to be so served by any one that hath his dependance and all he hath from us 6. I beseech you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ and as you tender the everlasting good of your soules and bodies if any of you have neglected this great and most necessary work to use all the good means appointed of God with all speed and seriousness for the getting and increasing of sound knowledg saving faith true repentance sincere love real obedience and holiness of heart and life of which I shall speak more in the general considerations and advices immediately following which I hope may be of some use to all sorts and ranks of men And now my dear friends and acquaintance let me in the bowels of Jesus Christ be your Remembrancer to put you in minde of and quicken you in the practice of these few following profitable necessary and comfortable Christian exercises though you do know them already and are established in them as the Apostle Peter did his beloved Christians 2 Pet. 1.12 13. I will not be negligent to put you alwayes in remembrance of these things though you know them and be established in the present truth Yea I think it meet as long as I am in this Tabernacle to stir you up by putting you in remembrance knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me And here I will mind you of no other thing then what I my self desire really sincerely and constantly to practice and Oh that the good Lord would inable me by his grace and that you would help me by your prayers for I assure you I desire to think of you alwayes and to minde you in my approaches unto God Oh my friends my heart is inlarged towards you and for you be you also enlarged to God for me I have great need of your prayers 1. Read the holy Scriptures daily especially the Gospels the Epistles of the Apostles and the book of Psalms and let such as cannot read themselves get them read as often as they can Even Kings notwithstanding their many other great and weighty imployments for the publick good must have a copy of the holy Scriptures by them and read therein all the dayes that is every day of their lives that they may learn to fear the Lord their God and to keep all the words of the Law and the Statutes and do them Deut. 17.18 19. For blessed is the man that delighteth in the Law of the Lord and in his Law doth meditate day and night Psal 1.2 And in reading the holy Scriptures observe as well as you can 1. What sins are forbidden condemned or punished to avoid them 2. What duties commanded commended or approved to observe and doe them 3. What promises are made and to whom and believe them apply them rest on them for your encouragement in well doing or avoiding evil 4. What threatnings there are against any sin or judgements of God or man on sinners to avoid the sins And 5. what blessings are on the godly or good things he has done for any to comfort and encourage you in well doing There are also many other excellent books and treatises on several parts of the holy Scripture also on particular necessary Christian duties of singular use to instruct and direct a Christian in every duty of his general and particular calling also in every particular state condition and relation which are worth your reading and serious perusal which you shall do very well to redeem what time you can conveniently to read and meditate on them I shall for their sakes that know not name a few choice books as the Practice of Piety Mr. Scudders daily walk with God Mr. Balls Catechism with the exposition and treatise of living by faith Mr. Baxters call to the unconverted also his book intituled Now or Never Dr. Gouge of Domestical duties Mr. Thomas Gouge his word to Sinners and Saints Mr. Dod on the Ten Commandments Mr. Burroughs Jewel of contentment Mr. Gurnass whole armour of God on Eph. 6. in three parts Mr. Fenner of Repentance and Gods alarum to drousy Saints Mr. Dyke of Conscience also of the Sacrament Dr. Prestons of Gods all-sufficiency Watsons Cordial Mr. Brooks of Jereboams son for young men Mr. Church Christian daily Monitor There are many other excellent works of Mr. Perkins Mr. Boulton Dr. Preston Dr. Sibbes Mr. W. Fernner Mr. Obadiah Sedgwick Mr. Hooker Dr. Reynolds Mr. Burroughs Mr. Caryl on Job Dr. Goodwin Mr. Calamy Mr. Bridges Mr. Swinnock which I have seen with very many more that come not now into my minde and would be too too tedious to write and read but these few for direction to them that know not and desire some help herein 2. Take and improve the opportunity of hearing the word preached especially on the Lords day by able and sound men in Office others have no warrant nor call of God Jam. 1.18 Be swift to hear He that hath an ear to hear let him hear said our blessed Saviour Mat. 11.15 and 13.41 For it is the onely ordinary means appointed of God for to beget and work also to preserve and increase saving knowledge faith repentance and every saving grace Rom. 10.14 17. Faith comes by hearing and that of men in Office v. 14. It is the power of God unto salvation Rom. 1.16 17. The savour of life unto life to them that do believe 2 Cor. 2.16 Prov. 8.34 Blessed is the man that heareth me saith wisdom waiting daily at my gates waiting at the posts of my doors He that willingly neglects hearing neglects his
oftentimes fall into the sins also which he should not and 't is like would not to his shame and sorrow when too late to repent them therefore 1 Thes 5.22 says the Apostle Abstain from all appearances of evil 4. And where occasions cannot be avoided there especially arm your selves by prayer meditation on the word power justice and goodness of God and by holy resolution constantly and resolutely to oppose the evil the motions of sin temptations of Satan and the allurements of the world looking unto God and relying on him for assistance strength and wisdom to withstand and overcome them Jam. 4 7. 1 Pet. 5.9 Mat. 26.41 Watch and pray always that ye enter not into temptation And we have great reason so to do to be watchful if we consider what enemies we have viz. the Devil the world and the flesh 1. The Devil a most cunning malicious subtil vigilant and diligent and deceitful adversary to tempt and draw us to sin and destruction See 1 Pet. 5.8 one that is invisible a spirit and so can be present and see us outwardly inwardly that knows our nature temper and disposition by his great knowledge and thousands of years diligent observation and can and doth sute his temptations accordingly and press them home again and often and not be seen nor discerned of us because a spirit and invisible 2. The World another great enemy both the men of the world and worldly things The men of the world earthly carnal sensual men and men of corrupt judgments and evil conversations that will be tempting and drawing to sin by their counsel promises threatnings fair and foul usage hard dealings by their examples habits carriage and the like Therefore there are so many warnings given us by the Lord in his word as Pro. 1.10 My son if sinners intice thee consent thou not Prov. 4.14 Enter not into the path of the wicked c. Mat. 10.16 17 18. Beware of men Mat. 7.15 Beware of false Prophets that come unto you in sheeps clothing but inwardly are ravening wolves i. e. with fair pretences but with foul malicious devouring hearts Phil. 3 2. 1 Cor. 15.32 Evil words corrupt good manners 2 Tim. 2.17 Their words do eat as doth a canker One man is oftentimes a wolf a devil to another and yet many discern it not Also the things of the world as profit pleasure preferment ease liberty credit and the like are great snares many times to draw into sin Who is not many times ensnared by them or too much taken up with them therefore great cause we have to be watchful 3. The flesh within us is as bad an enemy or worse than either of the other because within us natural to us born and bred up alwayes up with us as near to us as a right hand or a right eye that is always present with us and ready to open to Satan who is not always present therefore be watchful And thus labour to walk circumspectly 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 exactly precisely for so the word most properly signifies not as fools but as wise redeeming the time because the days are evil Ephes 5.15 16. from pleasures recreations idle words and frivolous discourses which are apt to steal away and swallow up much time though not evil in themselves also from vain thoughts and unprofitable musings which are very apt to steal in upon us in the bed at night in the morning and at other times at home and abroad walking and journeying also from sight frothy and amorous Books Romances and the like very unfit for Christians professing Godliness to read or hear for they steal much precious time move the affections in vain corrupt youth and take their affections off from and disrelish the spiritual appetite to the Holy Scriptures and other divine Treatises very necessary to be read frequently and seriously thought of Also redeem the time from unnecessary journeys visits yea even from sleep and worldly businesses for spiritual exercises to get and grow in knowledge grace and holiness to make sure of Gods favour pardon of sin interest in Christ and eternal life and to be useful in your generation that you may be able to to say with the Apostle Phil. 3.20 Our conversation is in Heaven from whence we look for the Saviour the Lord Jesus Christ who shall change our vile bodies c. 11. As God gives and according to your abilities be ready to be good to and relieve them that are sick weak in want or other affliction Gal. 6.10 As we have opportunity let us do good to all men especially unto them that are of the houshold of faith i. e. that are of the same Religion with us especially such as are Godly Heb. 13.16 To do good and to communicate forget not for with such sacrifice God is well pleased It is an odour of a sweet savour a sacrifice acceptable well-pleasing to God Phil. 4.18 And do it chearfully and liberally not grudgingly and sparingly for God loveth a cheerful giver and will plentifully require them in full measure pressed down and running over Luk. 6.38 It is compared to a sowing-seed 2 Cor. 9.6 He that sows sparingly shall reap sparingly and he that soweth bountifully shall reap bountifully Liberality supplieth the want of the necessitous giving occasion of much thanksgiving and of glory to God doth adorn the Christian Religion honor the Gospel of Christ stop the mouths of worldly men but opens the mouths and hearts of them that are relieved refreshed and comforted to praise God for you speak wel of you pray to God for you and doth as I may in some sense say engage God to deal liberally with you for your liberal distribution to others though our good works do not merit in the least degree and to inrich you with every good thing to all bountifulness 2 Cor. 6.7 8. and 9.8 to the end The Holy Ghost often presseth this duty Read Eccles 11.1 2. Cast thy bread upon the waters though it seem in the eye of natural reason as bread cast into the River quite lost yet saith he after many days thou shalt find it again yea with much advantage as the husband-man doth his corn cast into the earth and long buried yet after many moneths he receives it again many for one many times ten twelve yea more for one bushel Ver. 2. Give a portion to seven and also to eight for thou knowest not what evil shall be on the earth that is what plundering times or casualties may come when all may be taken away or consumed and then it will not repent you that you were liberal and charitable whilst you had it to poor Christians and other prous uses that is so given is sure and safe but that which is not given but taken away or consumed is quite gone lost unless lost for Christs sake But remember as to give cheerfully and liberally to also for Christs sake love to God and obedience to his command
CHRISTIAN ADVICE Both to OLD and YOUNG RICH and POOR Which may serve as A DIRECTORY At hand Ready to direct all Persons almost in every State and Condition Under XXVII General useful Heads Rom. 10.1 Brethren my hearts desire to God and prayer for you all is that ye may be saved 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Omne crede diem tibi deluxisse supremum Hor. Si Christum noscis nihil est si caetera nescis Si Christum nescis nihil est si caeteta noscis If Christ you know though nothing else 'T will bring you unto bliss If all things else and know not Christ Of Heaven you shall miss LONDON Printed for Edw. Brewster at the Crane in Pauls Church-yard 1671. T. Cross sculpsit The Effigies of Mr. Tho Mocket some time of Qu Col Camb Mr of A in both the Universities and Minister of the Gospel Aetatis suae 68. A D 1670. The Effigies of the Reverend Author of this Worke M T M Haveing knowne him many yeares I thought good to add out of respects to him Edw Brewster A few VERSES On Psal 39. v. 5. Amici cujusdam THreescore and ten the age and life of man In holy Davids eyes seem'd but a span Yet half that time is lost and spent in sleep So only thirty five for use we keep Our dayes of youth must be abated all Child hood and youth wise Solomon doth call But vanity meer vanity he saies Is what befalls us in our childish daies Our daies of age we take no pleasure in Our daies of grief we wish had never bin So time deducted youth and age and sorrow Only a span is all the time we borrow Now we do count our time by years monthes dayes Ere long we reckon must another wayes Make it your work here so to live and dye That you may live with God eternally Live every day as if it were your last day To The Right Honourable truly Noble and Religious and now also the aged Lady the Countess of Exceter increase of honour holiness and comfort here and perfection hereafter Madam ALthough you might wonder that such an one as I should presume to present so small and mean a piece to your hands and under your name to the world who have so many rare and excellent Workes of eminent men of your own already yet be pleased to pass by my boldness and to accept my Reasons that moved me so to doe though slender I had sometimes the honour to wait on and preach to the Right honourable Lord John Earle of Bridge-water Baron of Brackly and Elsemere c. your Father and then Lord President of the Marches of Wales under King Charles the first long since deceased and had I may truly say without ostentation respect and favour above my expectation and deserts and promises of preferment I also well knew the Lady Catherine Courten your Sister deceased very worthy to be remembred and honoured who was pleased to accept of a small piece from my hand also your great candor piety and goodness which God of his free grace hath inriched you with for which I cannot but much honour you and if your Ladyship shall be pleased to favour a poor Minister of Christ so far as to let this mean piece come to your hand and pass abroad under your Name though mean and homely I trust it may be of some use to others and possibly to your self seeing the truths of God are the same though in a mean dress and great souls must be nourished with the same sincere milk of the word go to Heaven in the same plain way of truth and holiness Though this be but as Goats hair was to make an outward covering to save the rich Furniture and Curtains of the Tabernacle and make other rich pieces appear with more lustre and beauty this plain homely dish of spiritual food may give you occasion to relish value and desire others the more and to feed more savourly on them And so your Lady ship will oblige me to be most ready MADAM To love honour and serve you in the Lord while I am THO. MOCKET The Contents and principal Heads handled in this Treatise THe Preface Pag. 1 An Exhortation to some to get and exercise these fundamental Graces Pag. 4 1 Sound Knowledg Pag. 5 2 Saving Faith Pag. 25 3 True Repentance Pag. 26 4 Unfained Live to God and Men Pag. 27 5 Sincere Obedience Pag. 29 Six moving considerations to get and grow in those Pag. 36 Exhortations and Advices to all in general Pag. 41 1 To read the Holy Scriptures dally Pag. 42 2 To take and improve the opportunities of hearing Pag. 45 3 To meditate often Pag. 46 4 To be careful to keep holy the Christian Sabbath and Lords-day Pag. 47 5 To pray daily Pag. 48 6 To sing Psalms often Pag. 53 7 In performing duties to be careful to perform them in a right manner and not to rest in the duty Pag. 54 8 To obey Magistrates Pag. 56 9 To have a lawful Calling and use it lawfully Pag. 58 10 To be watchful to observe the seasons and opportunities of doing and receiving good Pag. 64 11 To Charity Pag. 72 12 To them in prosperity Pag. 75 13 To them in adversity Pag. 77 14 To them under temptations to sin Pag. 82 15 To studie unity peace and love Pag. 85 16 To endeavour to be and walk always in the fear of the Lord Pag. 90 17 To study to carry themselves affably courteously and neighbourly to all Pag. 104 18 Use a moderation in all things at all times and to all persons Pag. 106 19 Study and endeavour to be good and useful in all relations Pag. 112 20 To use recreations when nature requires lawfully and wisely Pag. 114 21 To think often and prepare for death Pag. 115 22 To married persons generally particularly to Husbands Wives Page 118 23 To Parents Pag. 130 24 To Children Pag. 139 25 To Masters and Governours of Families Pag. 153 26 To Servants Pag. 160 27 To them that are poor Pag. 173 28 Some Objections answered Pag. 177 29 The Conclusion with some choice Scriptures Pag. 188 To My dear Relations Friends and Acquaintance especially in the Counties of Kent London Middlesex Hertford and Essex T. M. heartily wisheth Grace Mercy and Peace from God the Father and from our Lord Jesus Christ with a daily encrease thereof DEAR FRIENDS YOu have been loving kind and respective unto me and mine and now being Aged drawing near unto seventy I am very desirous to leave with you a few lines instead of a worldly Legacy which I am sure many of you need not nor desire as a Testimony of my thankfulness unfeigned love due respects and hearty desire of your real good temporal and eternal that they may be present with you and speak unto you when I cannot come at you or am gone from you into the place of silence and therefore I have been desirous to publish these lines the substance
be revealed from heaven with his mighty Angels in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ who shall be punished with everlasting destruction And so on to v. 11. And this knowledge must not be an idle meer notional knowledg swimming in the brain but an operative practical powerful transforming knowledge such as workes on the heart and puts on to believe and practice what a man knoweth and doth transforme change and make a man to endeavour to be like unto God himself loving merciful good gratious holy just true and spiritual Many wicked men yea enemies and persecutors of the true Religion and godly men have do know much as to a speculative and notional knowledge and can speak well when they please but make no conscience to practice what they know Secondly Faith is necessary to the right participation of the Lords Supper also to live and die comfortably and happily A particular distinct Faith which is a recieving and resting on Christ alone for salvation as he is offered to us in the Gospel More largely and generally Faith is a resting and relying on God the Father for all good things both for soul and body this life and that to come only for the alone mercy of God and merit of Christ the Mediatour John 1.12 and 3.16 God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whose believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life Mark 16.16 He that believeth shall be saved but he that believeth not shall be damned Heb. 11.6 Without Faith it is impossible to please God Thirdly Repentance is also necessary to live and die well and happily Luke 13.3.5 Said our Saviour Except ye repent ye shall all likewise perish Therefore it is called Repentance unto life Acts 11.18 Now repentance is a conversion or turning of the heart and whole man from sin all sin in affection and endeavour unto God Therefore it is so often expressed in the Scripture by turning as Deut. 4.30 and 30.10 1 Kings 8.35 Nehem. 1.9 Psal 7.12 and very often elsewhere There are two parts of Repentance Humiliation and Reformation 1. Humiliation and sorrow for sin past and present because sin a transgression of the holy just and good law of God Rom. 7.12 and because offensive and hateful to God a filthy thing defiling and dangerous to our selves yea damnable if continued in 2. Reformation or amendment of life an unfained leaving of all sin in affection and also in practice in respect of sincere desires purpose and endeavour daily to amend whatsoever is amiss and to lead a life according to the command of God without which sorrow for sin and humiliation availes little Fourthly sincere love true hearty Christian love is another necessary grace both love to God the Father Jesus Christ and to our Neighbour 1 Love to God even the whole blessed Trinity in unity who is the only chief and all-sufficient good most lovely in respect of his most excellent wisdome love goodness holiness mercy truth faithfulness justice and all other his transcendent perfections Also for what he hath done for us and is still most ready to do for his people Deut. 6.5 Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart with all thy soul and with all thy might So Deut. 10.12 Mat. 23.37 2. We must love our Neighbour also Mat. 22.37 Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self that is truly heartily and really making it appear by the fruits and effects of it as occasion requireth and opportunity serveth and as we are able and that both to good and bad men 1. Good men with a love of complacency and delight because of the Image of God in them Psal 16.2 3. 2. Bad men evil yea wicked men yea enemies with a love of benevolence that is so as to pity them wish them good pray for them counsel instruct admonish and reprove also when there is just cause occasion opportunity and we may do it with any hopes of doing good Levit. 19.17 Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thy heart but thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour not suffer sin upon him or not bear sin for him as the margin hath it Mat. 5 44. I say unto you said the Lord Jesus Love your enemies bless them that curse you do good to them that hate you and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you that you may be the children of your Father which is in heaven Not rendring evil for evil 1 Pet. 3.9 Yet hate and shun their sins and have no fellowship in the unfruitful workes of darkness Eph. 5.11 Sixthly sincere obedience an hearty desire purpose and endeavour to observe the whole will of God and obey him in all his commands both of piety and holiness towards God and of justice equity and mercy towards men sobriety towards ones self Tit. 2.11 12. This I mention particularly though it might have been included in the former because Christ will be a Saviour to none but to them that do sincerely obey him Heb. 5.9 Christ Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty Angels in flaming fire rendring vengeance on them that know not God and that obey not the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ 2 Thes 1.7 8 9 10. And because I would have it particularly minded and observed Now consider I beseech you for the Lord Jesus Christ his sake and that seriously 1. Whether you have these such a knowledge of God and of your selves whether you do in some measure see your misery by sin the remedy thereof by Christ know the doctrine of the Sacraments and that not with a bare notional knowledg but a working and practical knowledg And have you a true living faith in God through Jesus Christ whom he hath sent such a faith as applies the righteousness of Christ for justification and draws virtue from him for sanctification and holy conversation Do you truly repent of your sins and heartily endeavour to amend what is amiss are you new creatures and endeavour to live in newness of life Do you mak conscience of obeying Gods commands of living holily and dealing truly faithfully and justly with all men Do you truly love God for himself and above all things and your neighbour truly and heartily for Gods and Christs sake wishing his good and be ready to do any Christian neighbourly office of love for him or any of them forgiving private wrongs and injuries as you would that God for Christs sake should forgive you or do you heartily desire and truly endeavour after these things if so in truth then happy are you blessed be God for this great mercy and goodness to you he has done more for you then if he had given you very many thousands and made you great the greatest persons in the world yea then if he had given
Church of God above two thousand it may be three thousand years in the publick worship of God and in private Families also particularly at the Passeover the Jews used to sing six Psalms together beginning at Psalm 111 some think Psalm 112 and so on as the Jewish Rabbins and other learned Divines do think called the solemn Hymne and the great Hallelujah Further how antient singing of Psalms is Read Exod. 15.1 c. How excellent Psal 30.1 2 4. and 92.1 and 147.1 How warrantable under the New Testament See also Ephes 5.18 19 20. Col. 3.16 Jam. 5.13 Psal 147.1 Which custome 't is probable our blessed Saviour observed after the Passeover and his Supper were performed Mat. 26.30 and his Disciples It was used even in mixt multitudes and so commanded Psa 66.1 2 3 4. 68.32 96.1 2. and 98.1 2 4 5. Knowing what I do know I wonder that any sober Christians should scruple at it and lay it aside it was not wont to be so till of late years the Enemie hath sown his tares among the good Corn thereby hoping to corrupt us with his many foul errors and so to divide and destroy us and the Protestant Religion and Verity which the God of truth forbid and rebuke the Enemie 7. In performing these and all other religious duties have a special care and eye to the manner of doing them as well as to the Ordinances and duties themselves namely to perform them 1. Humbly and self-denyingly looking unto Christ both for assistance and acceptance without whom you can do nothing so himself saith John 15.5 and we find it true by experience 2 Cor. 3.5 that is nothing rightly and acceptably by our own abilities but only by the assistance and for the merit and intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ 2. Also do all duties with all the strength of your intention and affections Eccles 9.10 What thy hand findeth to do do it with all thy might Most necessary in performing Religious duties not coldly carelesly with wandring thoughts or dead drowsie affections but with the heart kept close to the duty and with God in the duty 3. Also look to a right end for the manner and end of doing duties is that which God chiefly looks at requires and accepts Many by-respects and ends may put on to duties but to do them in a right manner and to a right end principally to the Glory of God and good of Souls is that which is the heart soul and life of a duty argues our faith in God love to him and obedience to his Sovereign Authority as most wise just and good without this the best duties are not regarded but despised rejected and many times cursed and punished as the Jews services and offerings Isa 1.11 12 13 14 15. Isa 66.7 and Jehu his good works Hos 1.4 8. Obey Magistrates them that have Authority over you with all humility cheerfulness observing their commands for conscience sake for so we are commanded and Nature teacheth us Rom. 13.1 2 5. Tit. 3.1 1 Pet. 2.13 14. For they are the Ministers of God the Powers that are are ordained of God And yet the Rulers that then were in being were wicked men Tyrants and Heathens whom the Prophet Jeremiah Jer. 29.7 and the Apostles commanded to pray for as Nebuchadnezzar Nero and those under them much more ought we to pray for and obey Christian Magistrates And in case any thing should be commanded which God forbid I speak by way of supposition which upon serious consideration you cannot be perswaded can stand with your obedience to God the Supreme Lord the peace of a good conscience forbear to act yet with all humble respect to Authority submitting willingly to suffer rather than to sin as the three Noble men did Dan 3.16 17 18. and Daniel chapt 6. ver 7 10 11. and the Apostles Act. 4.19 In all other things obey the Magistrate Supreme and Sub-ordinate readily and chearfully and thereby give good proof of your Loyalty and that you are not stubborn and refractory so that if any should maliciously slander you or falsely accuse you you may say as Paul Act. 24.13 They cannot prove the things whereof they now accuse me and as Daniel Innocencie is found before me and also before thee O King have I done no burt Dan. 6.22 and as it is Act. 24.16 I do exercise my self to have always a good conscience void of offence towards God and towards men and as it is 2 Corinth 1.12 Our rejoycing is this the testimony of our conscience that in simplicity and godly sincerity we have had our conversation in the world Also pray heartily daily for the King and all in Authority under him that under them ye may live a quiet and peaceable life in all Godliness and honesty for so we are commanded as a thing well-pleasing unto God 1 Tim. 2.1 2 3. That so doing ye may put to silence the ignorance and malice of foolish men 1 Pet. 2.15 especially Popish persons who are ready to say they are enemies to Kings Magistrates and Government stubborn disobedient and self-willed rebels to Authority the great and common Argument some men use against those that are most quiet conscientious and do most heartily pray for Kings and all in Authority desiring their good every way and the publike welfare and prosperity 1 Pet. 4.3 4. 9. Have a lawful calling and use it lawfully Have a lawful calling some honest imployment especially such as will conduce to the publike good as well as to your own particular benefit such a calling as is of good report and sutable to your means parts abilities and condition This I speak to them that are yet to chuse a calling yet such imployments as are sinful so some are ought to be cast off And in a lawful calling be faithful careful just and diligent in it avoyding idleness wastfulness and covetousness This duty God laid on man in the state of innocencie to keep him honestly imployed and his mind busied but after the fall toylsome labour came in as a punishment for sin Gen. 3.17 18 19. In the sweat of thy face thou shalt eat thy bread till thou return unto the ground Exod. 20.9 Six days thou shalt labour God allows no person whatsoever to live without a lawful calling and imployment that is capable of doing something Idleness was one of the sins of Sodom An idle person est pulvinar diaboli the Devils cushion on which he delights to sit and his anvil on which he uses to hammer mischief Of such an active nature are our spirits that if we do not busie them about that which is good the devil will be sure to set them about that which is evil You read what sad temptations befel David when he was idle and what sad doings followed 2 Sam. 11.2 c. but it cost him very dear 2 Sam. 12 9 c. compared with Psal 51. Deal justly and faithfully with all men whether they
abundantly reward and crown all their patient humble suffering in a quiet submission to his will Mat. 24.13 Rev. 2.10 12 26. for his sake and well-doing Mat. 5.11 12 13. Rom. 8.17 18. 2 Cor. 4.17 18. Further God in afflictions and suffering very often helps the memories of his servants to call to mind these and such like gratious sutable promises and helps their faith to believe them and rest on them for assistance the comfort and accomplishment of them in his best time for all the promises in Christ are Yea and Amen sure and certain 2 Cor. 1.20 by which they are inabled to overcome all sufferings and temptations and to triumph in the end 1 John 5.4 Consider therefore the patience of Job and what end the Lord made of it Jam. 1.1 2. and 5.11 also of Josephs sufferings and the happy issue the great preferment and honour that followed and the very great good he was inabled to do not only to the Egyptians but to the Church of God Gen. chapt 41.45 and 50. For the Lord is very pitiful and of tender mercy Jam. 5.11 7. Be sure to endeavour truly to repent to believe in Jesus Christ to walk holily and to make your calling and election sure that you are in the favour of God and that he afflicts in mercy out of love and with faithfulness for our eternal good 2 Pet. 1.10 14. In Temptations to sin consider these things 1. Be not self-confident go not out in your own strength be always jealous and suspitious of your selves and look unto God for wisdom to see the evil in them for grace and power to withstand and overcome them Remember Peter a good soul but relying too much on his own strength was sham fully foiled Mat. 26.33 71 72 73 74. 2 Arm your serves in the best wise ye can 1. by prayer 2. with some good Scriptures as sutable as you can find to your occasion and present temptation the word is The sword of the Spirit Ephes 6.17 3. The shield of faith whereby you will be able to quench all the fiery darts of the devil ver 16. and 4. Confider and rest your selves on the promises the power goodness and faithfulness of God and 5. with an holy resolution to suffer any thing rather than to sin 3. Consider what a shameful and dishonorable a thing it is to yeeld to Satan and be overcome of sin and Satan and the sad consequents ufually follow and then consider also the comfort peace and honour of not yeelding but overcoming with the encouraging promises made to them that do overcome and hold out in well-doing to the end Rev. 2.17 26. But resist him stedfastly in the faith 1 Pet. 5.9 that is by laying hold on 1. the faithfulness of God believing the promises as most true the threatnings also the precepts as holy just and good 2. By laying hold on the power mercy wisdome and goodness of God Faith reasons thus the Promises are true and sure why should I nor believe them and rest upon them The Threatnings are sure why should I then venture on sin the Precepts are all holy just good therefore all reason I should observe keep them God hath been loving good and merciful to me therefore I would not offend him and he is able all sufficient to support strengthen me in and deliver me out of all in due time therefore I will rest upon him alone 4. As God gives in wisdom to discover the evil in temptations and ability and strength of Grace to resist and overcome them so give to God all the praise and glory he is most worthy of it Thankfulness for benefits received is as I may say an holy inducement to move God to do more who delights to do good to thankful Souls 15. Study unity peace and love towards one another and towards all men 1. Study unity both in judgment and affection As much as possibly may be labour to be all of one judgment and one mind in the Lord and where you cannot be all of one judgment yet labour to be all of one heart to love all that are sound in their judgments in all truths necessary to life and godliness and joyn with them in all Ordinances of Christ How can I separate from them whom Christ owns and receives and where any do differ only in circumstantials or lesser matters that may stand with Godliness bear with them pity them cover their weaknesses in love and use all loving means to inform them a right and gain them to the truth Beware of censuring others that are not of the same judgment and way with your selves in those smaller matters being otherwise found holding the foundation and blameless in their lives Titus 3.2 God doth not give alike knowledge and understanding to every one And especially beware of division and separation from any whom Christ owns and receives The censoriousness division and separation of Professors hath almost undone us weakned the Protestants very much given a great wound to the Protestant Religion brought a great scandal upon Professors Religion and Godliness given occasion to many loose Protestants to slight all Religion many to turn Atheists others prophane and given the common Adversary very great advantage by our divisions to destroy both the Protestant Religion and the Professors of it You know that a bundle of sticks or arrows taken singly one after another may all easily be broken but joyntly bound together they cannot Therefore the Romish Adversaries have of late years endeavored and do still endeavour what in them lieth to sow errors debauch others and make divisions amongst the Protestants that they may destroy them and the Truth also and set up their Romish Antichristian idolatrous Masses and superstition But let not any of you I beseech you and I hope in the Lord you will never be the Jesuites and Devils instruments to make divisions rents and separation in the Church of Christ which is a work of the flesh and forbidden of God 1 Cor. 3.3 and 1.10 Rom. 16.17 The Lord doth often and much command and press to unity Read 1 Cor. 1.10 Rom. 16.17 Phil. 2.1 2 to 8. If there be therefore any consolation in Christ if any comfort of love if any fellowship of the Spirit if any bowels and mercies fulfil ye my joy that ye be like minded having the same love being of one accord of one mind Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves and so on Ephes 4.3 4 5 6. Endeavour to keep the unity of the spirit in the bond of peace Observe his weighty Reasons 1. There is one Body namely mystical the Church of Christ 2. One Spirit by whom they are united and governed 3. Ye are called into one hope to wit of life eternal 4. Have the same Lord even Christ 5. Have one faith namely in Christ 6. Have the same Baptism to wit into the Name of
Avoid also all evil times some times and seasons as well as some places are evil dangerous to walk in especially at some places as the night late or very early in some places Every man by nature is like to dry wood yea to dried tinder which is apt to take fire so soon as any spark of temptation to sin is cast into us by Satan and if the Devil do not tempt us yet our corrupt hearts are apt to take fire as soon as the least occasion is offered to us or we meet with it as too frequent experience proves Yea Fourthly Labour to mortifie sin every inordinate lust Col. 3.5 Mortifie your members which are upon the earth i. e. your sinful lusts desires and motions that are born and bred up with us and are as dear to us as our natural members are as a right hand or right eye Rom. 8.13 If ye live after the flesh ye shall die but if ye by the Spirit do mortifie the deeds of the body ye shall live Secondly Mind well and look to these things 1. Make choice of and improve good company yea the best company you can I count that the best company that is truly religious and godly which will further us in the best things especially be furthered by us to whom we may do good and by whom we may receive good And I count him my best friend that will help me most in the way to Heaven Worldly company I count also good company in this respect and so far as being otherwise civil and unblameable they may be helpful to me for the managing of my worldly affairs wisely and discreetly so as they may be most subservient to the highest ends You know Davids profession and practice Psal 16.23 My goodness extends not to thee but to the Saints that are in the earth and to the excellent in whom is all my delight Psal 119 63. I am a companion of all them that fear thee and of all them that keep thy Commandments Psal 119.115 Depart from me ye evil-doers for I will keep the Commandments of my God Let your most familiar intimate bosome-friend be as much as in you lieth one that is a most godly wise and grave experienced Christian 2. Look well to your actions give a good Example and the greater and more esteemed any of you are the more cause to look well to your actions every where to give a good Example of godliness humility gravity faithfulness justice righteousness and the like Do nothing but what is commendable virtuous and praise-worthy Beware of doing any thing that may leave an ill savour behind you which may open the mouths of evil men to speak or think evil of you or of Religion harden them in their evil ways or sadden the hearts of good men or be a stumbling-block to weak Christians that are coming on not light vain foolish idle vile and prophane carefully shun and avoid all such 3. Look to your words that they be true sober grave and seasonable not false idle filthy vain foolish ridiculous bitter or railing Ephes 4 25. Wherefore putting away lying speak every man the truth unto his Neighbour ver 29. Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth but that which is good to the use of edifying that it may minister grace to the hearers Jam. 5.12 Above all things my Brethren swear not Ephes 5.3 4. But fornication and all uncleaness and covetousness let it not be once named among you as it becometh Saints Nor filthiness nor foolish talking nor jesting that is scurrility or jeering scurrilous jesting and unseemly mirth are much unbeseeming the gravity and sanctity of a Christian For we must give an account of every idle word at the day of Judgment Matt. 12.36 37. much more of scurrilous and unclean words And if any man seem to be religious and yet bridleth not his tongue that mans Religion is vain Jam. 1.26 Not but that Christians may be cheerful and merry in company but their mirth must be harmless and innocent not light vain idle foolish much less vile and prophane In all things labour to shew your selves Patterns especially elder persons of goodness truth faithfulness righteousness uprightness c. and in all your dealings that you may adorn the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ and gain credit to Religion by your good conversation Let the Name of God Christ and his word be seldome in your mouths unless in an humble reverent manner to do or receive some good not in ordinary worldly discourse but let them be often in your minds hearts let them be to you as hony in your months and musick to your ears that you may say as David Psal 139.17 18. How precious are thy thoughts unto me O God How great is the sum of them If I should count them they are more than the sand when I awake I am still with thee Titus 3.2 Speak ill of no man be gentle shewing all meekness to all men Make the best construction of other mens words and actions as far as may be with a good conscience Love thinketh no evil is not easily provoked beareth all things believeth all things hopeth all things endureth all things 1 Cor. 13.5 7. Be not jealous be not suspitious yet labour wisely to foresee and prevent evils that may be Use not many words in speaking be not full of speech for as Solomon observes Eccles 5.7 In many words there are also divers vanities but fear thou God ver 3. A fools voice is known by a multitude of words It is often observed that even some very good persons and worthy to be honoured for the truth that is in them who are of a free speech when they speak of a person or thing which they like or dislike suppose it be of some distemper are sometimes so superlative and excessive in their expressions that they do speak often very much beyond what the thing in truth is to the grief of some tender consciences to hear such persons lash out beyond measure and which 't is believed if themselves did before God in their own consciences seriously consider surely they would not speak so largely It is good to speak always within the bounds of apparent truth also to perform what they promise lest some others censure us as lyers and say as too many are apt to do without cause Professors will not swear but they will lye or stretch foully This is sad and to be bewailed 4. Look to your affâ—ctions love desire delight hope fear joy sorrow anger hatred and the like that they be set on right objects so as to desire hope love delight and rejoyce in good things especially spiritual so to sorrow and grieve for sin to shan and hate it Col. 3.2 Set your affections on things above not on things on the earth Let David be your pattern Psal 16.3 In the Saints and the excellent in whom it all my delight Psal 119.104 I hate every
and condition to be always good and useful as David who served his generation Act. 13 36. and so fulfilled 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 all the wills of God ver 22. 20. Vse Recreations when nature requires in conventent places fit company and at convenient times and seasons not in times of mourning fasting or publike calamity never on the Lords day which is to be imployed in holy exercises Read and consider Isa 22.12 13. Exod. 20.8 and use them lawfully as recreations not as a trade or calling to refresh and make you more fit for the duties of your calling civil and religious not like him that is all day or a great part of it whetting his sythe but cuts down nothing or little But always let your recreations be only such as are lawful honest harmless of good report and sutable to the end you use them gravely and soberly as Christians Dicing carding mixt-dancing scurrilous sports and stage-plays are unbecoming the piety and gravity Christians should exercise in all their act on s if not simply unlawful for Christ ans 21. Think often of and prepare daily for suffering and death For our Saviour commands all that will be his Disciples to deny themselves and take up his cross and so follow him Luke 9.23 in respect of preparation and expectation for as Solomon tells us We know not what a day may bring forth Prov. 27.1 And the Apostle James also Chap. 4. ver 14. Therefore labour to get and clear up to your selves that you have true saving faith truly repented of your sins and have all other renewing and sanctifying Graces that you have an interest in Jesus Christ that your sins are pardoned the sting of death pulled out and all sufferings shall work together for your spiritual and eternal good See before in Adversity And then for death Know and consider that when where or howsoever it cometh it is to a true believer to a godly man only a means to put off the body of sin and to free the Soul from all sin both actual and original from Satans temptations from all worldly cares sufferings and sorrows from all toil and labour from all diseases distempers weaknesses and imperfections both of body and Soul a passage from natural life to eternal life from earth to Heaven from the company of evil and ungodly men and enemies for so many are in this world to have immediate and full communion with God the Father Jesus Christ the Holy Spirit and all the holy Angels Patriarks Prophets Apostles Martyrs and all other Saints departed in the faith And though you must part with many things desirable in this world and lovely as friends relations and some with riches honour and greatness in the world yet remember it is but for a time and to enjoy a far better estate incomparably better far better friends the most blessed and glorious Lord God the Heavenly Father Jesus Christ your husband Head Redeemer Justifier elder Brother the blessed Spirit your sanctifier and comforter godly relations and all the spirits of just men made perfect in Heaven and free from all the infirmities and corruptions they had while on earth which sometimes made the meetings of beloved and desired friends uncomfortable yea bitter as that of Paul and Barnabas two most godly persons and dear friends and companions Act. 15 37 38 39. And though the body shall go to the grave and see corruption yet it is but for a time God will destroy death it self and the grave raise up the body and glorifie it with the Soul to live for ever in Heaven in glory and happiness Hos 13.14 Phil. 3.21 1 Thes 4 15 16 17. Who after wearisome labour all day is unwilling to go to bed and rest Isa 57.1 2. why should any be unwilling to part with the worse for a state and condition that is every way incomparably better and everlasting wherefore comfort your selves and one another with these things and in an holy humble manner triumph over death and all worldly evils as the Apostle did 1 Corinth 15.54 c. 22. Married persons husbands and wives you know you are one flesh Gen. 2.24 And therefore your duty in common is 1. To dwell together that you may be mutual helpers one to another and to live chastly keeping each to other only keeping your bodies undefiled Adultery is a great sin to be punished with death Levit. 20.10 16. Whoremongers and adulterers God will judge Heb. 13.4 Consider Prov. 5.15 16 17 18 20 21. Drink waters out of thine own cistern c. 2. In a special manner to love one another above all other persons in the world and delight one in another above all others in respect of Gods command and because of their near union In this respect Solomon and God by him counselleth Prov. 5.18 Rejoyce with the wife of thy youth let her be as the loving Hand and pleasant Roe let her brest satisfie thee at all times This is the wives duty as well as the Husbands Love is the ground of all other duties and good carriages the bond of perfection it bindeth together all those duties that do or ought to pass between man and wife neighbour and neighbour Love provoketh constraineth to all duties where this is wanting all other duties will be wanting and often altogether neglected or slightly performed and where true love is there all other duties will be readily performed 3. To bear one with another and bear one anothers infirmities Gal. 6.2 Bear ye one anothers burden and so fulfil the Royal Law Jam. 2.8 4. To defend protect and preserve one anothers person good name credit and chastity 5. To nourish and cherish one another Eph. 5.29 No man hateth his own flesh but nourisheth cherisheth it Now husband and wife are one flesh and thus doing they do in effect preserve their own persons lives chastity credit comfort and nourish their own bodies This duty lieth on them at all times and in all estates and conditions in sickness and weakness in health in poverty lameness c. as well as in time of health strength beauty prosperity yea though the other party be not able or wilfully wanting to do his or her duty because of Gods command their near conjunction and solemn Matrimonial covenant to take one another for better for worse for richer for poorer c. 6. To be diligent provident careful to increase preserve that estate which God hath or shall give you the command of God reason and your own common interest mutually bind both to be as careful of the goods of the family as if they were their particular own goods and therein also to be helpful one to another 7. To govern the children servants and whole family wisely and discreetly for the good of the whole family and therein also to be helpful one to another 8. Especially to be the helpers one to another for the good of your Souls using all loving means to win and draw
are those that having by their labour gotten a little money either lavish it out in some finery or dainty fare and strong drink above their ability in a moderate way at some special time is not to be blamed And so feasting as it were one day and then are forced to fait or go with an empty belly two or three days after whereas a wise husbanding that little they get might supply their wants at all times something comfortably Thus living and walking according to these and the former rules and directions none need to fear either want or death but may comfortably say with David The Lord is my shepherd I shall not want Psal 23.1 and apply that of Isaiah Isa 57.2 He shall enter into peace they shall rest in their beds None need to fear want that hath an All-sufficient God and a most tender Father to provide for them nor need to fear death seeing to die to a Godly man is to enter into peace and rest in his bed none fear to go to bed when they know they shall rest Object Thus to live perhaps some will say or at least think were to banish all joy and comfort and to live an heavy mopish melancholy life Ans 1. The world is much mistaken and deceived The Godly man is forbidden or debarred no joy natural or worldly that is lawful and convenient for matter and other circumstances but only meer carnal sensual delights and others when and so far as they are evil in respect of circumstances which worldly delights so far worldly and voluptuous men must and will repent of when they shall give an account of themselves and their sinful pleasures and delights unto God 2. None under Heaven have so much true joy delight and content as the truly Godly man hath or may have even the most strict and most religious of them But indeed their joy and delights are not carnal but spiritual not outward in the face voice and lungs but inward in the heart a true sound solid joy but the joy of worldlings is a slight superficial underling joy of the bo y not of the soul like the flash of a bavin in the fire or straw it will make a great flame and noise but yeeld little hear it doth scorch rather than heat kindly and is quickly gone and out but the Godly mans joy is in his soul Luk. 1.46 47. Psal 13.5 and 33.21 a substantial hearty and lasting joy What greater joy can there be What greater comfort and cause of rejoycing than to know and be assured or have some comfortable grounds of hope that they are freed from the reigning and condemning power of sin from the destroying power of the devil death and hell have their sins pardoned God reconciled Christ to be their Saviour God to be their Father the Holy Ghost to be their sanctifier instructer guide and comforter and Heaven to be their everlasting inheritance and that in the mean time all things even the worst shall work together for their spiritual and everlasting good comfort and happiness the all wise and over-ruling gratious Providence of God Rom. 8.28 Psal 25.10 Therefore says the Apostle Phil. 4.4 Rejoyce in the Lord always and again I say Rejoyce Such a joy as the world can neither give nor take away nor understand Isa 9.3 Prov. 14.10 John 16.22 Object 2. Yet again p ssibly some may think this seems to be too much preciseness and niceness more than needs What shall none go to Heaven but such as live very precisely and strictly Answ I cannot deny but many shall go to Heaven yea all that are truly Godly and live holily though they are not of so strict a life as some are But 2. I never heard or read of so much as one in all my life that was truly Godly that thought himself too holy and strict but of many no doubt truly Godly strict who have complained and were troubled that they were no more holy and conformable to the will and Law of God and to Jesus Christ Read and consider David Psal 119.5.14 15 16 33 34. and many other places Paul also Rom. 7.18 19 c. and Phil. 3.9 10 12 13 14. 3. I say also that even wicked loose prophane persons when themselves come to die if the eyes of their understandings be truly open and conscience awaked they will justifie the most holy strict Christians and heartily wish that themselves had lived so I have heard and seen some do so on their sick beds when they had dying thoughts 4. Consider what Christ saith and commandeth us and all men Mat. 5.48 Be ye perfect even as your heavenly Father is perfect and what the Apostle saith and enjoyns in the name of God 1 Pet. 1.15 16. As he which has called you is holy so be ye holy in all manner of conversation Because it is written Be ye holy for I that is God or Christ am holy Now who can be perfect in this life for degree as God our Father in Heaven is Holy And who can be so holy in all manner of conversation while in the state of mortality as Jesus Christ is holy yet this we are all commanded to endeavour after here And now dear Friends and Christians give me leave to add only a few choice places of Scripture to be always ready at hand and before your eyes Ephes 4.22 23 c. Put off concerning the former conversation the old man which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts And be you renewed in the spirit of your mind and that ye put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness Wherefore putting away lying speak every man truth with his neighbour for we are members one of another Be angry namely when there is a just cause but sin not let not the Sun go down upon your wrath neither give place to the Devil Let him that stole steal no more but labour with his own hands the thing which is good that he may have to give to him that needeth Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouths but that which is good for edifying that it may minister grace to the hearers And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God whereby you are souled up unto the day of redemption Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamour and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice And be ye kind to one another tender hearted forgiving one another even as God for Christ sake hath or as you desire God should forgive you Phil. 2.1 2 to 7. If there be any consolation in Christ if any comfort of love if any fellowship in the Spirit if any bowels of mercy fulfil ye my joy that ye be like minded having the same love being of one accord of one mind Let nothing be done through strife and vain-glory but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than themselves Look not every man on his own things but every man also on the things of another Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Rom. 12.1 2 I beseech you by the mercies of God Brethren that ye present your selves a living sacrifice holy and acceptable unto God which is your reasonable service and be not conformed to the world but be ye transformed in the renewing of your minds Phil. 4.8 Whatsoever things are true whatsoever things are honest whatsoever things are just whatsoever things are pure whatsoever things are lovely whatsoever things are of good report if there be any vertue if there be any praise think on these things 1 Pet. 3.8 9 10 11. Be all of one mind having compassion one of another love as Brethren be pitiful be courteous not rendring evil for evil or railing for railing but contrariwise blessing knowing that ye are thereunto called that ye should inherit a blessing For he that will love life and see good days let him refrain his tongue from evil and his lips that they speak no guile For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous and his ears are open unto their prayers but the face of the Lord is against them that do evil Colos 3.12 13. Put on therefore as the elect of God holy and beloved bowels of mercies kindness humbleness of minde meekness long-suffering forbearing one another and forgiving one another if any man have a quarrel one against another even as Christ forgave you so also do ye And above all things put on charity which is the bond of perfectness And let the peace of God rule in your hearts to the which ye are called in one body and be ye thankful Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom teaching and admonishing one another in Psalms and hymns and spiritual songs singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed do all in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ giving thanks unto God and the Father by him Act. 20.32 And now Brethren I commend you to God and the word of his Grace which is able to build you up and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified 2 Cor. 13.11 Finally Brethren farewel be perfect be of good comfort be of one mind live in peace and the God of peace and love shall be with you Heb. 13.18 20 21. Pray for us for we trust we have a good conscience in all things willing to live honestly Now the God of peace that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus Christ that great Shepherd of the sheep through the blood of the everlasting covenant make you perfect in every good work to do his will working in you that which is well-pleasing in his sight through Jesus Christ 1 Pet. 5.10 11. And the God of all Grace who hath called us to his eternal Glory by or in Jesus Christ after that ye have suffered a while make you perfect stablish strengthen settle you To whom be glory and dominion for ever and ever Amen Now dear Christians Brethren and friends consider what I have written and the Lord give you understanding in all things and forget not to pray for him and his who is April 1670. Your very affectionate kinsman and friend to love and serve your Souls good while he is T. M.