ministry_n will_v soon_o be_v taint_v with_o the_o filthy_a puddle_n of_o man_n invention_n again_o in_o this_o deal_n of_o god_n with_o john_n we_o may_v observe_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n saying_n to_o he_o that_o have_v it_o shall_v be_v give_v â—5_n for_o though_o john_n be_v endue_v with_o rare_a knowledge_n and_o singular_a gift_n yet_o the_o lord_n add_v more_o knowledge_n to_o his_o former_a the_o lord_n find_v he_o faithful_a in_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o apostle_n and_o therefore_o reveal_v the_o knowledge_n of_o many_o secret_n unto_o he_o in_o most_o full_a manner_n even_o so_o it_o be_v in_o god_n church_n at_o this_o day_n all_o that_o have_v care_n to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o do_v it_o though_o their_o knowledge_n be_v small_a at_o the_o first_o yet_o the_o lord_n will_v help_v they_o and_o add_v daily_o to_o their_o knowledge_n and_o the_o cause_n why_o many_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o profit_n not_o but_o wax_v worse_o or_o stand_v at_o a_o stay_n be_v because_o they_o labour_v not_o to_o have_v their_o knowledge_n increase_v by_o put_v in_o practice_n that_o which_o they_o know_v for_o if_o they_o do_v then_o to_o he_o which_o have_v shall_v more_o be_v add_v and_o he_o shall_v have_v abundance_n as_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o we_o be_v negligent_a to_o hear_v or_o know_v and_o to_o obey_v the_o will_n of_o god_n we_o have_v a_o spirit_n indeed_o send_v upon_o we_o yet_o not_o god_n spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o slumber_n of_o blindness_n &_o ignorance_n so_o that_o we_o see_v and_o see_v not_o hear_v and_o understand_v not_o isay._n 6.9_o 6.9_o on_o the_o lord_n day_n in_o these_o word_n be_v the_o four_o circumstance_n namely_o the_o time_n when_o this_o vision_n be_v show_v to_o s._n john_n this_o day_n which_o here_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n among_o the_o jew_n be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n call_v by_o we_o sunday_n it_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n for_o two_o cause_n first_o because_o on_o this_o day_n christ_n rise_v from_o death_n to_o life_n for_o christ_n be_v bury_v the_o even_a of_o the_o jew_n sabboath_n which_o be_v our_o friday_n and_o he_o rest_v in_o the_o grave_a their_o whole_a sabbath_n which_o be_v our_o saturday_n and_o rise_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n early_o in_o the_o morning_n which_o be_v our_o sunday_n second_o this_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n according_a to_o the_o jew_n account_n come_v in_o stead_n of_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n and_o be_v ordain_v a_o day_n of_o rest_n for_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o sanctify_v for_o the_o solemn_a worship_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n especial_o it_o be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n the_o manifestation_n whereof_o as_o some_o think_v john_n chief_o intend_v in_o this_o title_n and_o touch_v this_o time_n for_o our_o better_a understanding_n let_v we_o consider_v three_o point_n first_o who_o change_v the_o jew_n sabbath_n second_o for_o what_o cause_n three_o whether_o the_o church_n have_v now_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n power_n to_o change_v the_o sabbath_n day_n we_o now_o celebrate_v to_o any_o other_o day_n of_o the_o week_n for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v common_o think_v that_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n be_v change_v into_o this_o lord_n day_n by_o christian_n emperor_n long_v after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ._n but_o it_o be_v more_o consonant_n to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n to_o hold_v that_o christ_n himself_o be_v the_o author_n of_o this_o change_n my_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n deliver_v and_o enjoin_v the_o church_n that_o they_o receive_v from_o christ_n either_o by_o voice_n or_o instinct_n for_o they_o deliver_v nothing_o of_o their_o own_o head_n but_o the_o apostle_n deliver_v and_o enjoin_v this_o sabbath_n to_o the_o church_n as_o to_o be_v keep_v a_o day_n of_o holy_a rest_n to_o the_o lord_n as_o appear_v 1._o cor._n 16.1_o where_o paul_n ordain_v in_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n and_o corinth_n that_o the_o collection_n for_o the_o poor_a shall_v be_v on_o the_o first_o day_n in_o the_o week_n this_o he_o leave_v not_o to_o the_o choice_n of_o the_o church_n but_o appoint_v it_o by_o authority_n apostolical_a from_o christ._n now_o the_o day_n of_o collect_v for_o the_o poor_a as_o appear_v in_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o sabbath_n day_n when_o the_o people_n be_v assemble_v for_o god_n service_n for_o this_o be_v the_o custom_n of_o the_o church_n for_o many_o year_n after_o christ_n first_o to_o have_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v then_o to_o gather_v for_o the_o poor_a and_o for_o this_o cause_n in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o church_n the_o lord_n supper_n be_v call_v a_o sacrifice_n a_o oblation_n and_o the_o mass_n not_o a_o real_a sacrifice_n as_o the_o papist_n use_v it_o but_o spiritual_a because_o therewith_o be_v join_v collection_n for_o the_o poor_a which_o be_v a_o spiritual_a oblation_n not_o to_o the_o lord_n but_o to_o the_o church_n for_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o poor_a and_o it_o be_v call_v the_o mass_n because_o the_o collect_v relief_n thereat_o be_v send_v to_o the_o poor_a saint_n abroad_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v this_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o keep_v this_o day_n for_o the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n act._n 20.7_o and_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o they_o observe_v any_o other_o day_n for_o a_o holy_a rest_n to_o the_o lord_n after_o christ_n ascension_n save_v only_o in_o one_o case_n when_o they_o come_v into_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o jew_n who_o will_v keep_v none_o other_o but_o the_o old_a sabbath_n of_o the_o law_n a_o three_o reason_n be_v john_n 20.19.26_o the_o same_o day_n whereâ—n_n christ_n rise_v from_o death_n be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n â—e_v appear_v to_o his_o disciple_n be_v gather_v together_o and_o teach_v they_o many_o thing_n which_o concern_v the_o government_n of_o his_o church_n and_o eight_o day_n after_o be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n he_o appear_v unto_o they_o for_o the_o same_o end_n now_o it_o be_v more_o than_o likely_a that_o christ_n in_o his_o own_o person_n give_v they_o a_o example_n to_o celebrate_v and_o keep_v that_o day_n wherein_o he_o rise_v again_o for_o a_o sabbath_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n ii_o point_n the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v change_v for_o two_o cause_n first_o to_o maintain_v the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n whereof_o this_o be_v a_o great_a part_n thaâ—_n they_o be_v free_v from_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o jew_n for_o when_o this_o day_n be_v change_v the_o church_n be_v no_o more_o tie_v to_o the_o jew_n sabbath_n neither_o have_v any_o such_o regard_n of_o day_n and_o time_n second_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o more_o fit_a time_n for_o the_o memory_n of_o the_o work_n of_o man_n redemption_n for_o as_o god_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n appoint_v the_o seven_o day_n to_o be_v a_o day_n of_o rest_n to_o remember_v the_o first_o creation_n so_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n it_o stand_v with_o reason_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o day_n to_o celebrate_v this_o work_n of_o redemption_n which_o be_v a_o wonderful_a creation_n wherein_o as_o isaiah_n say_v be_v make_v a_o new_a heaven_n &_o a_o new_a earth_n chap._n 66._o and_o whereby_o man_n become_v new_a creature_n 2._o cor._n 5.17_o nay_o this_o redemption_n be_v a_o more_o glorious_a work_n than_o the_o creation_n for_o in_o that_o creation_n adam_n be_v the_o head_n but_o in_o this_o redemption_n christ_n jesus_n be_v our_o head_n by_o the_o first_o creation_n we_o receive_v a_o temporal_a life_n but_o by_o redemption_n we_o receive_v life_n eternal_a in_o the_o creation_n adam_n be_v espouse_v to_o eve_n but_o in_o the_o work_n of_o redemption_n every_o christian_n be_v espouse_v to_o christ_n jesus_n by_o creation_n adam_n have_v a_o earthly_a paradise_n in_o this_o redemption_n we_o have_v a_o heavenly_a kingdom_n in_o the_o creation_n god_n power_n and_o wisdom_n do_v principal_o appear_v in_o this_o redemption_n with_o power_n and_o wisdom_n he_o show_v mercy_n and_o justice_n justice_n in_o christ_n passion_n and_o mercy_n in_o our_o forgiveness_n by_o creation_n he_o make_v man_n of_o nothing_o but_o by_o redemption_n he_o make_v he_o of_o worse_a than_o nothing_o and_o better_a than_o he_o be_v therefore_o see_v this_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n be_v far_o pass_v the_o creation_n it_o be_v meet_v a_o day_n shall_v be_v set_v a_o apart_o for_o the_o memory_n thereof_o now_o no_o day_n can_v be_v more_o fit_a than_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n in_o which_o christ_n rise_v again_o whereby_o he_o confirm_v
the_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n for_o he_o die_v for_o oâ—r_a sin_n and_o rise_v again_o for_o our_o justification_n rom._n 4.25_o iii_o point_n whether_o may_v the_o church_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n change_v this_o sabbath_n day_n to_o any_o other_o day_n of_o the_o week_n as_o to_o tewsday_n wednesday_n etc._n etc._n ans._n the_o church_n have_v no_o such_o power_n for_o time_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o the_o dispose_n thereof_o be_v in_o his_o hand_n therefore_o christ_n say_v to_o his_o disciple_n it_o be_v not_o for_o you_o to_o know_v the_o time_n and_o season_n which_o the_o father_n have_v keep_v in_o his_o own_o hand_n act._n 1.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v the_o father_n have_v keep_v time_n and_o season_n in_o hiâ—_n own_o power_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o for_o you_o to_o know_v they_o now_o if_o that_o be_v a_o good_a reason_n as_o no_o doubt_n it_o be_v then_o be_v this_o also_o sound_a and_o good_a if_o god_n have_v the_o dispose_n of_o time_n in_o his_o hand_n than_o it_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n to_o dispose_v of_o they_o but_o god_n have_v the_o dispose_n of_o all_o time_n in_o his_o hand_n ergo_fw-la and_o it_o may_v be_v otherwise_o henâ—e_v gather_v thus_o if_o that_o which_o be_v less_o belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n then_o that_o which_o be_v more_o do_v not_o but_o the_o knowledge_n of_o time_n and_o season_n which_o god_n have_v in_o his_o power_n belong_v not_o to_o the_o church_n which_o be_v less_o than_o the_o dispose_n of_o time_n and_o season_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n have_v not_o power_n to_o dispose_v of_o they_o and_o so_o by_o consequent_a may_v not_o alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n object_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o jew_n appoint_v festival_n day_n as_o the_o feast_n of_o dedication_n which_o christ_n keep_v holy_a joh._n 10.22_o institute_v by_o the_o maccabee_n 4._o in_o token_n of_o thankfulness_n for_o their_o deliverance_n and_o for_o restore_v of_o religion_n and_o the_o temple_n which_o antiochus_n have_v pull_v down_o and_o also_o mordichay_n institute_v the_o feast_n purim_n 17._o which_o be_v celebrate_v of_o the_o jew_n afterward_o now_o if_o they_o have_v power_n to_o make_v holiday_n than_o they_o may_v alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n and_o so_o may_v the_o church_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n ans._n these_o feast_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v no_o saboath_n set_v whole_o apart_o for_o the_o solemn_a worship_n of_o god_n but_o be_v only_a day_n of_o the_o solemnity_n appoint_v by_o the_o church_n in_o token_n of_o joy_n and_o thankfulness_n for_o the_o repair_n of_o the_o temple_n &_o deliverance_n of_o god_n people_n and_o be_v only_o celebrate_v as_o they_o serve_v to_o put_v the_o people_n in_o mind_n of_o these_o outward_a benefit_n so_o that_o whereas_o some_o hold_n that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o alter_v the_o sabbath_n day_n or_o to_o make_v two_o more_o sabbath_n day_n in_o a_o week_n if_o it_o be_v convenient_a it_o have_v no_o ground_n in_o god_n word_n for_o that_o authority_n which_o do_v alter_v this_o day_n must_v not_o be_v less_o than_o apostolical_a and_o thus_o we_o see_v why_o this_o day_n be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n now_o if_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n be_v the_o lord_n day_n use_n set_v apart_o for_o his_o honour_n in_o the_o memory_n of_o so_o great_a redemption_n than_o here_o be_v three_o sort_n of_o man_n reprove_v first_o those_o that_o make_v the_o lord_n day_n a_o day_n of_o vain_a pleasure_n and_o delight_n this_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n but_o especial_o of_o the_o young_a sort_n and_o servant_n who_o spend_v this_o day_n in_o carnal_a rejoice_v in_o riot_n game_n and_o wantonness_n never_o think_v of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o be_v then_o to_o be_v perform_v but_o these_o sin_n great_o against_o the_o lord_n for_o hereby_o they_o pervert_v the_o end_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n it_o shall_v be_v keep_v holy_a and_o glorious_a to_o the_o lord_n but_o they_o turn_v it_o to_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o the_o devil_n the_o second_o sort_n here_o reprove_v be_v those_o which_o live_v more_o civilltie_n than_o the_o former_a but_o yet_o they_o think_v they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v on_o the_o lord_n day_n as_o to_o take_v their_o journey_n thereon_o and_o employ_v themselves_o in_o their_o ordinary_a affair_n persuade_v themselves_o they_o may_v serve_v god_n with_o as_o good_a a_o heart_n when_o they_o be_v alone_o about_o their_o business_n as_o they_o do_v who_o go_v to_o the_o church_n but_o these_o man_n sin_v grievous_o against_o the_o four_o commandment_n for_o hereby_o they_o make_v that_o their_o own_o day_n which_o be_v the_o lord_n a_o three_o sort_n here_o reprove_v though_o not_o so_o bad_a as_o the_o former_a be_v those_o who_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o serve_v god_n at_o those_o ordinary_a time_n of_o the_o sabbath_n which_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n enjoin_v unto_o man_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v come_v due_o to_o morning_n and_o evening_n prayer_n think_v that_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v beside_o to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v and_o that_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o day_n they_o may_v do_v what_o they_o will_v pertain_v either_o to_o their_o profit_n or_o pleasure_n of_o this_o sort_n be_v our_o ignorant_a people_n and_o a_o great_a number_n every_o where_o but_o they_o sin_v grievous_o against_o god_n for_o the_o sabbath_n day_n be_v call_v the_o lord_n day_n because_o it_o be_v whole_o consecrate_v to_o his_o worship_n but_o they_o part_v stake_n with_o the_o lord_n and_o give_v he_o but_o a_o part_n of_o his_o own_o day_n and_o that_o the_o lesser_a take_v the_o rest_n unto_o themselves_o which_o thou_o misspend_v upon_o their_o lust_n now_o as_o these_o vice_n must_v be_v abhor_v so_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o must_v with_o all_o conscience_n keep_v the_o lord_n sabbath_n holy_a according_a to_o thâ—_n four_o commandment_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v thereon_o cease_v from_o all_o work_n of_o sin_n and_o from_o the_o work_n of_o our_o calling_n and_o sanctify_v this_o day_n whole_o by_o apply_v it_o all_o to_o the_o honour_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o here_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o there_o be_v a_o double_a sanctification_n of_o the_o sabbath_n public_a and_o private_a public_a when_o man_n assemble_v themselves_o together_o public_o to_o hear_v god_n word_n for_o the_o increase_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n and_o to_o call_v on_o god_n name_n for_o further_a grace_n as_o also_o to_o give_v he_o thanks_n for_o his_o mercy_n and_o to_o receive_v his_o sacraman_n private_a when_o man_n in_o their_o private_a place_n employ_v themselves_o in_o holy_a duty_n of_o prayer_n read_v and_o meditation_n upon_o god_n word_n &_o work_n whereby_o god_n be_v honour_v and_o their_o soul_n edify_v and_o both_o these_o must_v be_v perform_v to_o the_o lord_n every_o sabbath_n day_n of_o every_o man_n for_o we_o may_v not_o abridge_v god_n of_o that_o timâ—_n wherein_o glory_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o his_o name_n if_o the_o officer_n shall_v take_v our_o servant_n in_o the_o week_n day_n from_o our_o private_a business_n &_o employ_v they_o in_o public_a affair_n we_o will_v think_v much_o at_o it_o though_o it_o be_v for_o the_o common_a good_a and_o shall_v we_o not_o think_v that_o god_n will_v take_v himself_o dishonour_v of_o we_o when_o we_o shall_v take_v either_o whole_a or_o part_n of_o his_o holiday_n and_o employ_v it_o in_o our_o business_n a_o main_a cause_n why_o many_o profit_n little_a by_o the_o public_a mininisterie_n be_v want_n of_o private_a sanctification_n of_o this_o day_n therefore_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o else_o we_o shall_v never_o increase_v in_o faith_n knowledge_n or_o obedience_n as_o we_o shall_v for_o the_o beget_n and_o increase_v whereof_o this_o day_n have_v be_v set_v apart_o and_o sanctify_a from_o the_o beginning_n object_n 2._o why_o do_v the_o lord_n show_v this_o vision_n unto_o john_n rather_o on_o this_o day_n than_o any_o other_o answ._n though_o john_n be_v absent_a from_o the_o church_n in_o regard_n of_o bodily_a presence_n yet_o he_o be_v present_a in_o spirit_n withal_o the_o faithful_a and_o therefore_o no_o doubt_n on_o this_o day_n he_o give_v himself_o to_o prayer_n and_o other_o duty_n which_o he_o can_v perform_v for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o that_o solitary_a place_n now_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n manner_n when_o his_o servant_n be_v thus_o humble_v then_o to_o come_v and_o reveal_v himself_o unto_o they_o in_o special_a manner_n so_o he_o do_v unto_o daniel_n dan._n 9_o and_o to_o cornelius_n act._n 10._o and_o to_o peter_n pray_v
alone_o on_o the_o house_n top_n act._n 10.11_o and_o so_o doubtless_o find_v john_n thus_o employ_v this_o lord_n day_n he_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o he_o touch_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n hence_o we_o learn_v sundry_a instruction_n first_o whereas_o john_n be_v in_o a_o solitary_a island_n keep_v the_o sabbath_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o all_o person_n who_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o prisoner_n and_o those_o which_o be_v sick_a of_o a_o dead_a paluesie_a or_o other_o great_a disease_n as_o mariner_n though_o they_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o sea_n shall_v keep_v holy_a the_o lord_n sabbath_n by_o perform_v such_o duty_n as_o god_n require_v as_o prayer_n confession_n of_o sin_n and_o thanksgiving_n whereby_o god_n may_v be_v glorify_v though_o they_o can_v come_v to_o the_o public_a ministry_n of_o the_o word_n second_o in_o that_o john_n receive_v his_o vision_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n when_o he_o give_v himself_o to_o prayer_n and_o holy_a duty_n hence_o arise_v a_o consolation_n to_o god_n church_n that_o god_n draw_v near_o unto_o they_o that_o draw_v near_o to_o he_o as_o james_n 4.8_o and_o so_o let_v we_o humble_v ourselves_o and_o draw_v near_o to_o the_o lord_n by_o prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n and_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n will_v show_v himself_o sundry_a way_n and_o draw_v near_o unto_o us._n the_o cause_n why_o man_n have_v so_o little_a taste_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o love_n towards_o they_o be_v because_o they_o do_v not_o draw_v near_o unto_o he_o by_o do_v those_o duty_n which_o he_o require_v at_o their_o hand_n for_o when_o man_n draw_v back_o from_o god_n be_v it_o not_o good_a reason_n he_o shall_v draw_v back_o from_o they_o this_o therefore_o must_v stir_v up_o our_o heart_n and_o move_v we_o to_o come_v often_o to_o god_n by_o prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n for_o by_o use_n in_o these_o duty_n shall_v we_o get_v acquaintance_n with_o the_o lord_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o circumstance_n of_o this_o vision_n and_o i_o hear_v behind_o i_o a_o great_a voice_n as_o it_o have_v be_v a_o trumpet_n first_o here_o follow_v the_o part_n of_o this_o vision_n which_o be_v two_o the_o beginning_n or_o entrance_n into_o it_o in_o this_o verse_n and_o part_n of_o the_o twelve_o second_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n thereof_o from_o the_o twelve_o verse_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o chapter_n the_o entrance_n into_o the_o vision_n be_v a_o preparation_n whereby_o the_o lord_n make_v john_n more_o fit_a to_o apprehend_v and_o receive_v the_o thing_n reveal_v in_o which_o preparation_n we_o must_v observe_v first_o the_o mean_n second_o the_o part_n thereof_o the_o mean_n whereby_o god_n prepare_v he_o be_v a_o voice_n and_o i_o hear_v a_o voice_n the_o like_a manner_n of_o preparation_n have_v god_n use_v in_o former_a time_n when_o he_o intend_v to_o make_v with_o adam_n the_o covenant_n of_o reconciliation_n in_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n first_o he_o prepare_v he_o by_o a_o voice_n speak_v unto_o he_o before_o he_o appear_v and_o by_o this_o voice_n cause_v he_o to_o sly_a for_o fear_v then_o have_v rebuke_v he_o for_o his_o sin_n he_o make_v with_o he_o this_o covenant_n of_o grace_n genes_n 3._o and_o in_o mount_n sinai_n before_o the_o lord_n give_v the_o law_n 20._o he_o first_o come_v down_o in_o thunder_a and_o lightning_n and_o with_o the_o sound_n of_o a_o trumpet_n to_o terrify_v the_o people_n and_o then_o he_o utter_v his_o law_n to_o moses_n and_o to_o his_o people_n so_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v instruct_v samuel_n touch_v the_o house_n of_o elie_n 3._o he_o awake_v he_o by_o a_o voice_n again_o and_o again_o and_o then_o speak_v plain_o unto_o he_o and_o in_o all_o vision_n usual_o and_o general_o the_o lord_n use_v to_o prepare_v his_o servant_n by_o voice_n by_o sign_n and_o word_n that_o they_o may_v be_v more_o fit_a to_o receive_v such_o thing_n as_o he_o reveal_v this_o deal_n of_o god_n with_o john_n in_o prepare_v he_o to_o the_o worthy_a receive_n of_o this_o vision_n teach_v we_o that_o we_o much_o more_o shall_v be_v prepare_v to_o hear_v and_o receive_v the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o we_o come_v far_o short_a of_o those_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n which_o be_v in_o john_n who_o yet_o must_v be_v prepare_v our_o come_n to_o hear_v god_n word_n be_v to_o learn_v the_o same_o for_o the_o increase_n of_o knowledge_n faith_n and_o obedience_n now_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v hard_a and_o we_o dull_a to_o learn_v we_o must_v therefore_o by_o all_o good_a mean_n prepare_v ourselves_o that_o our_o mind_n and_o heart_n may_v be_v fit_a to_o receive_v the_o same_o with_o profit_n the_o cause_n of_o so_o little_a profit_n after_o long_a hear_n be_v want_v of_o preparation_n but_o hereof_o we_o have_v entreat_v already_o upon_o the_o three_o verse_n this_o voice_n be_v here_o set_v out_o unto_o we_o three_o way_n first_o by_o the_o place_n whence_o it_o come_v second_o by_o the_o quality_n of_o it_o three_o by_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n which_o it_o contain_v for_o the_o place_n it_o be_v utter_v from_o behind_o he_o which_o the_o lord_n observe_v to_o stir_v up_o â—â—re_a attention_n in_o john_n for_o usual_o man_n do_v more_o careful_o mark_v those_o thing_n which_o come_v on_o a_o sudden_a behind_o they_o than_o those_o which_o be_v speak_v or_o do_v direct_o before_o their_o face_n second_o for_o the_o quality_n of_o it_o this_o voice_n be_v great_a as_o be_v express_v further_o by_o a_o similitude_n like_o the_o sound_n of_o a_o trumpet_n that_o be_v full_a of_o power_n and_o majesty_n which_o also_o god_n add_v unto_o it_o to_o further_a attention_n in_o john_n for_o if_o it_o have_v be_v a_o ordinary_a voice_n or_o small_a he_o will_v not_o so_o much_o have_v regard_v it_o but_o be_v so_o sudden_a so_o great_a and_o full_a of_o majesty_n it_o can_v not_o but_o make_v he_o very_o attentive_a now_o see_v christ_n be_v so_o careful_a to_o prepare_v johns_n mind_n with_o attention_n and_o diligence_n to_o receive_v the_o thing_n which_o shall_v be_v tell_v he_o this_o teach_v we_o that_o when_o we_o come_v to_o hear_v god_n word_n we_o must_v use_v all_o mean_n of_o attention_n for_o if_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o john_n then_o be_v it_o far_o more_o necessary_a for_o we_o who_o be_v far_o inferior_a to_o he_o in_o all_o gift_n of_o understanding_n and_o memory_n and_o here_o also_o be_v another_o cause_n of_o small_a profit_n and_o little_a like_n of_o god_n word_n namely_o want_v of_o attention_n in_o the_o heart_n we_o must_v therefore_o like_o godly_a lydia_n act._n 16._o stir_v up_o our_o dull_a and_o heavy_a spirit_n and_o with_o all_o diligence_n mark_v the_o thing_n we_o hear_v and_o here_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o two_o enemy_n to_o attention_n the_o first_o be_v by-thought_n as_o when_o the_o body_n indeed_o be_v present_a but_o the_o mind_n wander_v from_o the_o word_n and_o be_v whole_o possess_v with_o thought_n of_o pleasure_n or_o other_o worldly_a affair_n for_o these_o be_v thorn_n in_o the_o ground_n of_o our_o heart_n which_o choke_v the_o good_a seed_n of_o the_o word_n many_o will_v complain_v they_o can_v mark_v and_o remember_v that_o which_o be_v teach_v now_o the_o cause_n be_v in_o themselves_o their_o wander_a thought_n which_o hinder_v both_o understanding_n and_o memory_n for_o the_o mind_n conceive_v other_o matter_n can_v observe_v how_o one_o point_n depend_v on_o another_o much_o less_o remember_v they_o afterward_o the_o second_o enemy_n to_o attention_n be_v dulness_n and_o heaviness_n in_o body_n &_o soul_n a_o common_a fault_n in_o many_o hearer_n which_o show_v itself_o by_o drowsiness_n and_o sleepiness_n in_o the_o time_n of_o preach_v when_o they_o ought_v to_o stir_v up_o their_o body_n and_o heart_n to_o all_o attention_n if_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v dull_a and_o heavy_a when_o his_o prince_n be_v speak_v unto_o he_o of_o some_o weighty_a matter_n that_o be_v for_o his_o good_a it_o will_v be_v take_v for_o a_o part_n of_o contempt_n and_o disloyalty_n towards_o his_o majesty_n what_o disloyalty_n then_o be_v this_o unto_o the_o king_n of_o king_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v dull_a and_o heavy_a when_o himself_o vouchsafe_v to_o speak_v unto_o we_o out_o of_o his_o word_n the_o mystery_n of_o our_o salvation_n and_o sure_o among_o other_o thing_n this_o drowsiness_n be_v one_o cause_n of_o small_a profit_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o will_v increase_v in_o knowledge_n and_o in_o the_o gift_n of_o grace_n unto_o salvation_n we_o must_v prepare_v ourselves_o before_o we_o come_v and_o in_o hear_v
piety_n and_o sincere_a obedience_n we_o may_v judge_v it_o to_o be_v good_a but_o if_o it_o tend_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o idolatry_n and_o sin_n than_o it_o be_v a_o false_a doctrine_n thus_o we_o may_v scan_v all_o false_a religion_n as_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o turk_n and_o jew_n at_o this_o day_n but_o because_o we_o be_v more_o trouble_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o popery_n among_o our_o common_a people_n who_o call_v it_o the_o old_a religion_n therefore_o let_v we_o a_o little_a examine_v the_o same_o by_o this_o rule_n the_o end_n of_o popery_n be_v to_o pull_v down_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o disannul_v his_o law_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o a_o short_a view_n in_o every_o commandment_n and_o therefore_o it_o can_v be_v the_o true_a religion_n the_o first_o commandment_n teach_v we_o to_o choose_v and_o acknowledge_v the_o true_a god_n for_o our_o god_n alone_o but_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n teach_v to_o make_v more_o god_n than_o one_o &_o to_o acknowledge_v the_o creature_n to_o be_v god_n for_o by_o their_o doctrine_n man_n be_v to_o pray_v unto_o saint_n whereby_o they_o make_v they_o god_n in_o give_v this_o divine_a property_n unto_o they_o to_o know_v the_o heart_n their_o doctrine_n also_o ascribe_v unto_o saint_n power_n to_o merit_n which_o be_v a_o property_n of_o god_n for_o none_o can_v merit_v but_o he_o that_o be_v god_n the_o humane_a nature_n of_o christ_n â—ould_v not_o have_v merit_v any_o thing_n unless_o it_o have_v be_v join_v to_o the_o godhead_n yea_o they_o make_v the_o wood_n of_o the_o cross_n to_o be_v god_n for_o in_o their_o mass_n book_n at_o this_o day_n they_o call_v not_o christ_n crucify_v on_o the_o cross_n but_o the_o very_a cross_n itself_o our_o only_a hope_n yea_o the_o virgin_n marie_n who_o be_v but_o a_o creature_n they_o place_n as_o a_o queen_n in_o heaven_n give_v her_o power_n over_o christ_n to_o command_v he_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o salvation_n and_o so_o they_o disannul_v the_o first_o commandment_n the_o second_o commandment_n they_o revoke_v in_o teach_v it_o to_o be_v lawful_a to_o make_v image_n of_o the_o trinity_n according_a as_o they_o show_v themselves_o in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n the_o father_n like_o a_o old_a man_n the_o son_n as_o he_o live_v and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n like_o a_o dove_n and_o therein_o to_o worship_v they_o again_o they_o teach_v that_o man_n may_v adore_v the_o image_n of_o saint_n which_o be_v flat_a against_o that_o commandment_n the_o three_o commandment_n they_o disannul_v in_o teach_v it_o to_o be_v lawful_a to_o swear_v by_o saint_n and_o not_o by_o god_n only_o the_o four_o they_o disannul_v by_o make_v the_o festival_n day_n of_o saint_n equal_a with_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n and_o to_o be_v keep_v holy_a unto_o god_n as_o solemn_o as_o the_o lord_n day_n whereby_o also_o they_o take_v away_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o the_o six_o day_n for_o honest_a labour_n in_o a_o man_n calling_n the_o five_o they_o disannul_v in_o give_v freedom_n and_o immunity_n to_o their_o clergy_n from_o subjection_n to_o civil_a authority_n and_o in_o dispense_n with_o subject_n for_o their_o loyalty_n and_o allegiance_n to_o their_o lawful_a prince_n and_o with_o child_n and_o servant_n from_o yield_v due_a help_n service_n and_o obedience_n to_o their_o parent_n and_o master_n the_o six_o by_o their_o house_n of_o refuge_n which_o they_o call_v sanctuary_n wherein_o murderer_n may_v be_v in_o safety_n and_o by_o maintain_v ignorance_n in_o religion_n through_o which_o they_o murder_v many_o a_o simple_a soul_n the_o seven_o by_o tollerate_v of_o stew_n and_o allow_v of_o incest_n for_o by_o their_o law_n it_o be_v lawful_a for_o the_o great_a uncle_n to_o marry_v his_o niece_n descend_v from_o his_o brother_n or_o sister_n so_o it_o be_v without_o the_o four_o degree_n which_o be_v against_o nature_n the_o eight_o by_o make_v sale_n of_o all_o thing_n of_o heaven_n hell_n of_o earth_n of_o pardon_n &_o deliver_v man_n from_o purgatory_n which_o be_v flat_a robbery_n and_o most_o gross_a deceit_n and_o cozenage_n the_o nine_o they_o disannul_v by_o falsify_v the_o canon_n of_o scripture_n for_o they_o make_v that_o canonical_a which_o be_v no_o scripture_n and_o beside_o in_o their_o doctrine_n practical_a they_o defend_v a_o lie_n for_o when_o a_o man_n have_v confess_v his_o sin_n to_o the_o priest_n if_o the_o magistrate_n ask_v the_o priest_n what_o sin_n the_o man_n confess_v they_o teach_v the_o priest_n to_o say_v i_o know_v not_o that_o be_v say_v they_o to_o tell_v it_o to_o thou_o which_o be_v a_o flat_a lie_n and_o whereas_o they_o will_v defend_v this_o by_o a_o exposition_n of_o christ_n word_n when_o he_o say_v â—_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n be_v not_o know_v to_o the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o be_v say_v they_o to_o reveal_v it_o unto_o other_o they_o do_v but_o deceive_v the_o simple_a by_o a_o exposition_n which_o be_v not_o fit_a the_o last_o commandment_n they_o disannul_v by_o hold_v concupiscence_n before_o consent_n to_o be_v no_o sin_n when_o as_o we_o know_v by_o god_n word_n that_o the_o first_o evil_a motion_n in_o we_o be_v sin_n so_o that_o hereby_o we_o may_v see_v that_o popery_n be_v but_o a_o false_a religion_n though_o it_o have_v false_o among_o our_o common_a people_n the_o name_n of_o the_o old_a religion_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v abhor_v the_o same_o as_o ungodly_a now_o whereas_o some_o do_v charge_n the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o religion_n to_o be_v sundry_a way_n scandalous_a they_o may_v be_v easy_o answer_v first_o they_o say_v it_o be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o desperation_n because_o it_o import_v that_o god_n create_v man_n so_o as_o he_o will_v save_v but_o a_o few_o make_v they_o for_o this_o end_n to_o cast_v the_o great_a number_n to_o hell_n to_o this_o i_o answer_v two_o thing_n first_o touch_v the_o number_n of_o they_o that_o be_v to_o be_v save_v of_o which_o little_o be_v say_v in_o scripture_n &_o therefore_o i_o will_v not_o say_v much_o yet_o this_o may_v be_v aver_v the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o itself_o be_v 7.9_o a_o great_a company_n but_o be_v compare_v with_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v damn_v it_o be_v but_o small_a second_o touch_v the_o end_n of_o man_n creation_n our_o doctrine_n be_v not_o that_o god_n create_v man_n for_o this_o end_n to_o cast_v they_o to_o hell_n but_o this_o we_o teach_v that_o god_n create_v all_o man_n to_o manifest_v his_o glory_n in_o they_o in_o some_o by_o their_o just_a and_o deserve_a damnation_n for_o sin_n we_o teach_v not_o that_o man_n be_v otherways_o condemn_v than_o for_o their_o sin_n and_o therefore_o he_o that_o be_v condemn_v have_v his_o just_a reward_n ii_o charge_n they_o say_v further_o our_o doctrine_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o blasphemy_n for_o that_o we_o teach_v god_n to_o have_v decree_v the_o fall_n of_o man_n and_o so_o make_v god_n the_o author_n of_o man_n sin_n ans._n we_o teach_v indeed_o that_o god_n decree_v adam_n fall_n but_o thence_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o man_n sin_n for_o god_n will_v be_v twofold_a general_a and_o special_a god_n general_a will_n be_v to_o permit_v that_o which_o be_v evil_a not_o simple_o but_o because_o with_o god_n evil_a have_v some_o respect_n of_o good_a and_o in_o this_o respect_n we_o say_v god_n decree_v adam_n fall_n god_n special_a will_n be_v his_o approve_v will_n whereby_o he_o take_v pleasure_n and_o delight_n in_o that_o which_o be_v good_a and_o in_o this_o regard_n god_n nill_v adam_n fall_n and_o man_n sin_n and_o yet_o in_o some_o respect_n he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o will_v they_o a_o magistrate_n though_o he_o take_v no_o comfort_n or_o delight_n in_o the_o death_n and_o execution_n of_o a_o malefactor_n yet_o he_o decree_v and_o appoint_v it_o and_o so_o may_v be_v say_v to_o will_v it_o even_o so_o god_n who_o out_o of_o light_n can_v bring_v darkness_n permit_v evil_a because_o with_o he_o it_o have_v some_o respect_n of_o good_a and_o so_o may_v be_v say_v to_o will_v it_o iii_o charge_n they_o say_v also_o that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o church_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o security_n because_o we_o teach_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v certain_a of_o his_o salvation_n and_o of_o perseverance_n in_o the_o faith_n unto_o the_o end_n answ._n this_o be_v not_o a_o doctrine_n of_o carnal_a security_n because_o we_o do_v impose_v necessary_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n to_o they_o that_o will_v be_v certain_a of_o their_o salvation_n and_o persevere_v unto_o the_o end_n as_o namely_o denial_n of_o themselves_o &_o humble_v themselves_o in_o continual_a prayer_n with_o hear_v &_o meditate_v
david_n himself_o a_o type_n of_o christ_n as_o it_o be_v most_o excellent_o dyscipher_v in_o the_o prophet_n jer._n 23.5.6_o &_o hosea_n 3.5_o where_o christ_n be_v plain_o call_v david_n by_o the_o name_n of_o he_o that_o be_v his_o type_n sign_n &_o figure_n quest._n why_o be_v not_o as_o well_o the_o kingdom_n of_o nabuchadnezzar_n and_o pharaoh_n type_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n as_o david_n answ._n because_o david_n kingdom_n be_v a_o kingdom_n of_o light_n and_o piety_n but_o they_o be_v kingdom_n of_o sin_n and_o iniquity_n and_o he_o be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n kingdom_n because_o his_o kingdom_n and_o the_o righteousness_n thereof_o be_v figure_v by_o the_o piety_n in_o david_n kingdom_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o speak_v be_v justifiable_a by_o god_n word_n so_o mat._n 2.23_o christ_n be_v call_v a_o nazarite_n which_o place_n have_v relation_n to_o that_o which_o be_v say_v proper_o of_o samson_n 13._o who_o be_v a_o most_o excellent_a figure_n of_o christ_n and_o do_v most_o notable_o represent_v he_o in_o his_o death_n wherein_o he_o kill_v more_o than_o in_o his_o life_n now_o christ_n be_v call_v a_o nazarite_n not_o because_o he_o observe_v their_o rite_n and_o order_n for_o that_o he_o do_v not_o he_o drink_v wine_n so_o do_v not_o the_o nazarite_n but_o because_o he_o be_v the_o truth_n and_o substance_n of_o that_o order_n for_o in_o he_o be_v full_o accomplish_v that_o holiness_n which_o be_v figure_v by_o that_o order_n for_o he_o be_v perfect_o sever_v from_o all_o sin_n and_o pollution_n and_o so_o here_o he_o be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n because_o he_o have_v the_o sovereignty_n which_o be_v figure_v by_o david_n kingdom_n which_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v and_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v here_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o house_n which_o can_v be_v open_v and_o shut_v by_o none_o but_o christ_n whereby_o be_v signify_v that_o none_o have_v power_n above_o christ_n in_o his_o kingdom_n and_o that_o his_o power_n therein_o be_v sovereign_a and_o absolute_a so_o that_o hereby_o be_v mean_v that_o christ_n jesus_n sit_v in_o heaven_n have_v sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n over_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n to_o govern_v the_o same_o that_o we_o may_v the_o better_o understand_v this_o sovereign_a power_n of_o christ_n we_o must_v know_v it_o have_v three_o part_n i._o to_o prescribe_v ii_o to_o judge_n iii_o to_o save_v or_o destroy_v in_o prescribe_v christ_n have_v absolute_a power_n and_o that_o in_o sundry_a thing_n as_o first_o in_o prescribe_v doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o religion_n unto_o his_o church_n to_o be_v believe_v and_o obey_v and_o that_o on_o pain_n of_o damnation_n this_o power_n he_o put_v in_o execution_n when_o in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n he_o prescribe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o law_n &_o the_o gospel_n to_o be_v obey_v and_o believe_v and_o none_o but_o he_o can_v make_v a_o article_n of_o faith_n or_o a_o law_n to_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o paul_n say_v whosoever_o shall_v teach_v any_o other_o doctrine_n then_o that_o which_o you_o have_v receive_v of_o we_o let_v he_o be_v accurse_v gal._n 1.8_o second_o for_o regiment_n he_o have_v absolute_a power_n to_o prescribe_v how_o he_o will_v have_v his_o church_n govern_v and_o by_o who_o and_o therefore_o moses_n when_o he_o be_v to_o make_v the_o tabernacle_n 8.5_o do_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o pattern_n that_o the_o lord_n give_v unto_o he_o so_o david_n give_v to_o solomon_n pattern_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o he_o by_o the_o spirit_n touch_v the_o build_n of_o the_o house_n of_o god_n 1._o chron._n 28.12_o three_o he_o have_v absolute_a power_n to_o appoint_v the_o time_n of_o keep_v his_o sabbath_n for_o as_o the_o ordain_v of_o a_o sabbath_n belong_v to_o christ_n so_o do_v the_o change_v thereof_o he_o that_o prescribe_v worship_n must_v prescribe_v the_o ordinary_a set_a time_n thereunto_o which_o be_v to_o continue_v to_o the_o end_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v but_o a_o opinion_n of_o man_n to_o hold_v that_o the_o church_n may_v make_v two_o or_o more_o sabbath_n day_n in_o a_o week_n if_o they_o wil._n four_o in_o prescribe_v the_o sacrament_n and_o therefore_o 23_o paul_n say_v what_o i_o have_v receive_v of_o the_o lord_n that_o deliver_v i_o unto_o you_o speak_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n for_o he_o that_o give_v grace_n must_v also_o appoint_v the_o sign_n and_o seal_n of_o grace_n the_o second_o part_n of_o christ_n sovereign_a power_n be_v power_n of_o judgement_n which_o be_v a_o sovereign_a power_n to_o determine_v on_o his_o own_o will_n without_o the_o consent_n of_o other_o or_o submission_n to_o man_n or_o angel_n and_o in_o determine_v christ_n have_v two_o privilege_n first_o to_o expound_v scripture_n the_o absolute_a power_n of_o expound_v the_o law_n belong_v to_o the_o lawgiver_n and_o his_o exposition_n be_v authentical_a second_o to_o determine_v of_o all_o question_n and_o controversy_n in_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o wicked_a opinion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o hold_n that_o the_o principal_a judge_n of_o interpret_n scripture_n and_o decyde_v controversy_n be_v the_o church_n the_o three_o part_n of_o christ_n sovereign_a power_n be_v to_o save_v and_o destroy_v this_o be_v express_v in_o these_o word_n he_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v say_v 1.18_o to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o hell_n and_o of_o death_n whereby_o be_v signify_v first_o that_o he_o have_v power_n to_o forgive_v sin_n for_o that_o he_o procure_v at_o his_o father_n hand_n second_o that_o he_o have_v power_n to_o condemn_v for_o when_o man_n believe_v not_o his_o word_n he_o have_v power_n to_o hold_v they_o in_o their_o sin_n for_o which_o he_o can_v cast_v they_o into_o hell_n the_o ground_n of_o this_o threefold_a power_n of_o christ_n iâ—_n this_o because_o he_o be_v sovereign_a lord_n over_o his_o church_n and_o the_o member_n thereof_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n say_v that_o this_o key_n of_o david_n have_v more_o in_o it_o then_o sovereignty_n over_o his_o church_n to_o wit_n a_o power_n to_o make_v and_o depose_v king_n that_o be_v in_o his_o church_n this_o they_o teach_v that_o they_o may_v prove_v the_o pope_n to_o have_v title_n in_o ordain_v and_o depose_n of_o king_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o key_n but_o they_o err_v gross_o for_o though_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v above_o all_o king_n yet_o in_o that_o regard_n he_o neither_o make_v nor_o depose_v any_o king_n and_o therefore_o he_o say_v plain_o 3â—_n my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n this_o cause_v he_o to_o refuse_v to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o office_n of_o a_o earthly_a judge_n or_o prince_n to_o 14_o divide_v a_o inheritance_n between_o two_o brethren_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o he_o 8.11_o refuse_v to_o give_v sentence_n of_o the_o adulterous_a woman_n and_o yet_o as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o make_v or_o depose_v earthly_a king_n so_o the_o wise_a mail_n speak_v of_o he_o in_o the_o person_n of_o wisdom_n 8.15_o by_o i_o king_n reign_v for_o the_o further_a clear_n of_o this_o we_o must_v handle_v another_o point_n which_o be_v derive_v hence_o keyeâ—_n concern_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n which_o be_v a_o power_n whereby_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n of_o david_n be_v put_v in_o execution_n this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v mention_v mat._n 16.19_o when_o christ_n say_v unto_o peter_n i_o will_v give_v unto_o thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v bind_v upon_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n be_v a_o ministry_n grant_v to_o god_n church_n to_o open_v and_o shut_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n first_o i_o call_v it_o a_o ministry_n that_o be_v a_o service_n because_o whatsoever_o the_o church_n do_v in_o christ_n name_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o duty_n of_o servant_n unto_o their_o lord_n from_o whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o most_o worthy_a member_n and_o officer_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o church_n as_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v but_o the_o minister_n of_o christ._n that_o this_o be_v a_o service_n i_o show_v more_o plain_o thus_o when_o adam_n fall_v in_o his_o sin_n all_o mankind_n fall_v with_o he_o and_o thereby_o be_v all_o bar_v from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n now_o since_o that_o fall_n christ_n become_v man_n and_o in_o his_o manhood_n satisfy_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n for_o man_n sin_n and_o this_o
must_v give_v up_o at_o the_o last_o day_n 1._o cor._n 15.24_o and_o here_o we_o must_v consider_v in_o what_o manner_n god_n give_v his_o revelation_n to_o his_o son_n first_o therefore_o christ_n jesus_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v make_v lord_n of_o this_o revelation_n so_o as_o he_o may_v say_v it_o be_v his_o own_o right_n and_o royalty_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o law_n whereby_o his_o church_n be_v now_o govern_v whereof_o he_o be_v lord_n and_o king_n again_o this_o revelation_n be_v reveal_v unto_o christ_n as_o he_o be_v man_n before_o it_o be_v ever_o know_v to_o any_o creature_n man_n or_o angel_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o union_n of_o his_o manhood_n with_o the_o godhead_n in_o this_o which_o have_v be_v say_v we_o may_v observe_v that_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v christ_n his_o right_n and_o belong_v unto_o he_o as_o his_o own_o royalty_n and_o privilege_n for_o as_o the_o law_n in_o any_o kingdom_n belong_v to_o the_o prince_n thereof_o and_o be_v call_v his_o law_n alone_o and_o no_o man_n else_o so_o this_o book_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o law_n whereby_o christ_n govern_v his_o church_n be_v his_o royalty_n alone_o for_o god_n give_v it_o he_o and_o he_o have_v by_o his_o angel_n send_v it_o to_o his_o church_n and_o that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o this_o book_n must_v be_v understand_v proportional_o of_o all_o other_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n christ_n be_v make_v lord_n of_o all_o and_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o his_o royalty_n and_o possession_n and_o from_o hence_o will_v follow_v necessary_o first_o that_o no_o man_n in_o the_o world_n have_v authority_n above_o this_o book_n or_o any_o other_o part_n of_o canonical_a scripture_n indeed_o monarch_n and_o prince_n have_v great_a authority_n and_o pre-eminence_n in_o their_o dominion_n over_o all_o person_n and_o over_o all_o cause_n of_o man_n but_o in_o the_o church_n they_o with_o all_o other_o owe_v homage_n unto_o christ_n there_o he_o have_v the_o canonical_a scripture_n to_o be_v his_o law_n whereto_o every_o one_o must_v subject_v himself_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n be_v his_o royal_a ordinance_n over_o which_o none_o may_v dare_v to_o claim_v rule_n or_o authority_n for_o so_o shall_v the_o scripture_n have_v be_v give_v unto_o they_o for_o their_o prerogative_n as_o they_o be_v to_o christ_n but_o god_n give_v they_o to_o he_o alone_o and_o he_o dispose_v thereof_o as_o please_v he_o and_o therefore_o the_o pope_n in_o take_v upon_o he_o to_o dispense_v with_o the_o word_n and_o to_o mangle_v the_o sacrament_n do_v herein_o step_n into_o the_o room_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o declare_v himself_o to_o be_v that_o man_n of_o sin_n by_o seek_v to_o rob_v he_o of_o that_o princely_a royalty_n which_o belong_v to_o he_o alone_o second_o that_o the_o sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o expound_v scripture_n belong_v to_o christ_n alone_o and_o to_o none_o other_o with_o he_o true_a it_o be_v that_o man_n have_v a_o ministry_n commit_v unto_o he_o by_o virtue_n whereof_o he_o may_v expound_v scripture_n by_o scripture_n but_o man_n have_v no_o power_n of_o themselves_o to_o determine_v of_o the_o proper_a sense_n of_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o the_o popish_a practice_n in_o give_v to_o the_o church_n absolute_a authority_n to_o determine_v of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n of_o themselves_o without_o scripture_n be_v flat_a robbery_n against_o christ_n for_o therein_o they_o give_v unto_o man_n that_o sovereign_a power_n which_o be_v proper_a to_o christ._n three_o herein_o we_o observe_v the_o excellency_n of_o this_o book_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a scripture_n of_o god_n for_o all_o of_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o father_n to_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o son_n unto_o his_o church_n the_o like_a can_v be_v say_v of_o any_o write_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o be_v they_o never_o so_o excellent_a herein_o the_o scripture_n surpass_v they_o all_o whereby_o we_o be_v teach_v to_o esteem_v more_o reverent_o of_o the_o scripture_n of_o god_n than_o of_o all_o the_o write_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n here_o then_o behold_v the_o sin_n of_o this_o age_n which_o more_o delight_v to_o speak_v and_o hear_v the_o say_n of_o man_n in_o the_o public_a ministry_n than_o the_o glorious_a word_n of_o the_o everliving_a god_n whereas_o the_o write_n of_o man_n be_v full_a of_o darkness_n of_o error_n and_o deceit_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v most_o holy_a and_o pure_a and_o every_o way_n perfect_a proceed_v whole_o from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n unto_o his_o belove_a son_n who_o have_v faithful_o disperse_v the_o same_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n to_o show_v to_o his_o servant_n thing_n that_o must_v short_o be_v do_v these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o three_o and_o four_o argument_n whereby_o this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v viz._n the_o end_n of_o it_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o must_v be_v show_v and_o the_o matter_n which_o it_o contain_v arg._n ii_o the_o end_n of_o this_o revelation_n be_v to_o show_v that_o be_v to_o make_v know_v and_o manifest_a thing_n to_o come_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a church_n whence_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o papist_n err_v exceed_o in_o debar_v lie_v people_n as_o they_o call_v they_o from_o the_o read_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o the_o end_n of_o this_o book_n be_v to_o make_v manifest_a to_o god_n servant_n thing_n to_o come_v and_o who_o be_v god_n servant_n be_v the_o clergy_n only_o and_o not_o lay_v people_n also_o god_n forbid_v the_o lie_v man_n be_v christ_n his_o servant_n as_o well_o as_o one_o of_o the_o clergy_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v god_n will_v that_o he_o shall_v learn_v to_o know_v and_o understand_v this_o book_n like_o one_o of_o his_o servant_n and_o here_o consider_v that_o if_o this_o book_n of_o scripture_n which_o be_v hard_a and_o difficult_a must_v be_v learn_v of_o the_o lie_v man_n then_o much_o more_o must_v he_o search_v into_o all_o other_o book_n of_o god_n which_o be_v more_o plain_a and_o easy_a as_o the_o history_n of_o gospel_n epistle_n etc._n etc._n arg._n iii_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o must_v be_v show_v viz._n the_o servant_n of_o christ._n this_o revelation_n be_v not_o give_v of_o god_n for_o all_o man_n indefinite_o but_o for_o all_o his_o servant_n that_o be_v such_o alone_a as_o repent_v of_o their_o sin_n and_o true_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o they_o and_o show_v forth_o the_o same_o by_o new_a obedience_n so_o he_o teach_v elsewhere_o the_o secret_a of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o and_o his_o covenant_n to_o give_v they_o understanding_n psalm_n 25.14_o the_o lord_n will_v reveal_v his_o secret_n to_o his_o servant_n the_o prophet_n amos_n 3.7_o and_o god_n will_v not_o keep_v back_o from_o abraham_n the_o thing_n he_o be_v to_o do_v unto_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n because_o he_o know_v abraham_n will_v do_v his_o will_n and_o teach_v his_o family_n after_o he_o genes_n 18._o vers_fw-la 17.19_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o shall_v admonish_v we_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o bare_a hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o outward_a participation_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o to_o labour_v principal_o to_o become_v god_n servant_n and_o to_o show_v the_o same_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o which_o we_o hear_v hereby_o shall_v we_o receive_v instruction_n from_o the_o lord_n and_o grow_v in_o knowledge_n daily_o more_o and_o more_o our_o understand_n shall_v more_o easy_o conceive_v the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o they_o that_o will_v do_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n shall_v know_v his_o doctrine_n john_n 7.17_o here_o then_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o most_o hearer_n after_o long_o teach_v profit_n little_a but_o remain_v as_o blind_v and_o ignorant_a as_o ever_o they_o be_v even_o their_o own_o impiety_n they_o live_v in_o their_o sin_n and_o labour_v not_o to_o become_v god_n servant_n second_o in_o this_o argument_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o christ_n jesus_n be_v true_a god_n for_o here_o he_o be_v make_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n every_o true_a believer_n be_v his_o servant_n and_o he_o his_o lord_n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n be_v his_o angel_n as_o after_o we_o shall_v see_v which_o prerogative_n none_o can_v have_v but_o he_o that_o be_v true_a and_o very_o god_n three_o in_o this_o argument_n be_v those_o confute_v which_o hold_v that_o god_n will_v have_v all_o to_o be_v save_v and_o call_v all_o man_n without_o exception_n for_o if_o he_o call_v all_o effectual_o than_o he_o will_v offer_v the_o mean_n to_o all_o to_o wit_n his_o holy_a word_n that_o so_o they_o may_v
of_o the_o preface_n of_o this_o book_n contain_v the_o title_n and_o inscription_n thereof_o now_o from_o this_o nine_o verse_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o chapter_n be_v contain_v one_o of_o those_o seven_o vision_n which_o be_v show_v unto_o john_n and_o be_v set_v down_o in_o this_o book_n in_o this_o first_o vision_n two_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v note_v first_o the_o circumstance_n second_o the_o part_n thereof_o the_o circumstance_n in_o the_o nine_o and_o ten_o verse_n the_o part_n from_o thence_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o chapter_n the_o circumstance_n of_o this_o vision_n be_v four_o first_o the_o person_n to_o who_o this_o vision_n be_v show_v namely_o john_n the_o second_o the_o place_n where_o at_o paâ—mos_n the_o three_o the_o manner_n how_o it_o be_v propound_v it_o be_v deliver_v to_o he_o be_v 〈…〉_z the_o spirit_n the_o four_o the_o time_n when_o on_o the_o lord_n day_n for_o the_o first_o john_n be_v the_o person_n to_o who_o this_o vision_n befall_v who_o do_v therefore_o name_n himself_o to_o show_v that_o it_o be_v give_v he_o of_o the_o lord_n for_o as_o the_o lord_n have_v his_o vision_n and_o revelation_n as_o have_v be_v say_v so_o the_o devil_n have_v he_o 1._o but_o they_o may_v be_v distinguish_v by_o the_o person_n to_o who_o they_o be_v give_v god_n give_v his_o vision_n not_o to_o all_o man_n but_o unto_o those_o which_o be_v most_o â—it_a for_o they_o such_o as_o be_v most_o holy_a man_n for_o life_n endue_v with_o exceed_a gift_n of_o god_n acknowledge_v wisdom_n constancy_n zeal_n piety_n and_o religion_n so_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n he_o deliver_v not_o they_o to_o all_o 〈…〉_z his_o servant_n the_o prophet_n man_n of_o singular_a gift_n and_o grace_n and_o of_o exceed_a holiness_n &_o piety_n indeed_o the_o lord_n reveal_v some_o particular_a thing_n by_o wicked_a man_n as_o by_o balaam_n and_o cayphaâ—_n but_o they_o never_o know_v what_o those_o thing_n mean_v which_o be_v show_v unto_o they_o it_o be_v a_o property_n belong_v to_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v a_o vision_n and_o to_o know_v the_o same_o to_o their_o comfort_n and_o for_o both_o these_o be_v john_n thorough_o qualify_v he_o be_v a_o man_n of_o exceed_a holiness_n of_o life_n for_o christ_n love_v he_o and_o of_o singular_a and_o rare_a gift_n full_a of_o zeal_n love_n and_o piety_n and_o also_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o this_o vision_n make_v know_v unto_o he_o but_o the_o devil_n make_v no_o such_o choice_n his_o vision_n befall_v man_n which_o be_v heretic_n wicked_a notorious_a sinner_n who_o have_v no_o such_o rare_a and_o special_a gift_n as_o the_o other_o have_v so_o that_o we_o must_v esteem_v of_o this_o as_o a_o singular_a gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o own_o apostle_n s._n john_n now_o john_n have_v name_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o receiver_n of_o this_o vision_n for_o the_o great_a credit_n hereof_o he_o describe_v himself_o by_o two_o modest_a term_n first_o a_o brother_n second_o a_o companion_n first_o he_o call_v himself_o their_o brother_n that_o be_v of_o they_o who_o by_o faith_n be_v all_o member_n of_o the_o mystical_a body_n of_o christ._n for_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v a_o family_n whereof_o god_n the_o father_n be_v head_n and_o householder_n jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o â—lder_a brother_n and_o all_o believer_n be_v fellow_n brethren_n in_o and_o by_o christ_n be_v by_o faith_n the_o adopt_a son_n of_o god_n member_n of_o that_o family_n and_o brethren_n 〈◊〉_d to_o other_o by_o this_o title_n your_o brother_n first_o he_o set_v out_o his_o humility_n and_o great_a modesty_n for_o he_o be_v a_o man_n at_o that_o time_n above_o all_o man_n which_o liveâ—_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o gift_n and_o holiness_n of_o life_n he_o be_v the_o last_o apostle_n and_o have_v apostolical_a authority_n bâ—ing_v a_o most_o zeâ—lous_a and_o constant_a professor_n yet_o he_o call_v himself_o a_o brother_n to_o 〈…〉_z himself_o but_o equal_a with_o they_o though_o they_o be_v far_o inferior_a to_o he_o and_o so_o shall_v we_o esteem_v better_o of_o our_o brethren_n than_o of_o ourselves_o and_o make_v ourselves_o inferior_a to_o they_o second_o by_o this_o title_n we_o see_v he_o have_v his_o heart_n full_a of_o brotherly_a love_n to_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n he_o love_v they_o as_o brethren_n so_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o love_v all_o man_n even_o our_o enemy_n as_o they_o be_v of_o the_o same_o flesh_n with_o we_o but_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o religion_n with_o we_o to_o these_o especial_o shall_v we_o show_v our_o love_n and_o affection_n so_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o christian_n roman_n he_o affection_a to_o love_v one_o another_o with_o brotherly_a love_n rom._n 12.10_o and_o great_a reason_n for_o believer_n be_v link_v each_o to_o other_o with_o the_o near_a bond_n they_o have_v the_o same_o father_n which_o be_v god_n the_o same_o redeemer_n the_o same_o faith_n hope_n baptism_n and_o the_o same_o benefit_n by_o jesus_n christ_n his_o death_n and_o obedience_n but_o this_o duty_n be_v not_o practise_v there_o be_v that_o call_v themselves_o brethren_n who_o as_o isaiah_n say_v hate_v they_o that_o tremble_v at_o the_o word_n 66.5_o and_o mock_v they_o even_o for_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o same_o religion_n whereby_o they_o think_v to_o be_v save_v if_o any_o seem_v to_o make_v more_o conscience_n of_o their_o way_n than_o other_o they_o be_v revile_v and_o hate_v for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n which_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v for_o among_o all_o true_a christian_n shall_v be_v brotherly_a love_n the_o second_o title_n companion_n or_o copartner_n in_o three_o thing_n in_o tribulation_n in_o the_o kingdom_n and_o in_o the_o patience_n of_o christ._n he_o call_v himself_o copartner_n with_o 〈◊〉_d in_o tribulation_n for_o two_o causus_fw-la first_o because_o at_o that_o time_n when_o he_o write_v this_o vision_n the_o whole_a church_n be_v in_o persecution_n and_o tribulation_n under_o that_o cruel_a tyrant_n domâ—â—ian_n about_o fourscore_o or_o a_o hundred_o year_n after_o christâ—_n who_o banish_v he_o into_o 〈◊〉_d where_o he_o be_v not_o unmindful_a of_o the_o affliction_n of_o the_o church_n whereof_o he_o be_v a_o member_n and_o therefore_o call_v himself_o a_o partner_n with_o they_o in_o affliction_n by_o which_o he_o show_v what_o be_v that_o state_n of_o god_n church_n in_o this_o world_n namely_o to_o be_v under_o the_o cross_n and_o the_o member_n thereof_o must_v not_o be_v companion_n of_o peace_n and_o ease_n but_o copartner_n in_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n and_o therefore_o christ_n teach_v those_o which_o will_v be_v his_o disciple_n these_o lesson_n first_o to_o deny_v themselves_o to_o take_v up_o his_o cross_n daily_o and_o to_o follow_v he_o and_o because_o of_o this_o estate_n the_o church_n in_o this_o world_n be_v call_v the_o militant_a church_n be_v in_o continual_a fight_n against_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o instrument_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o be_v of_o special_a use_n for_o we_o in_o this_o land_n have_v have_v peace_n and_o quietness_n for_o many_o year_n without_o persecution_n which_o we_o must_v acknowledge_v for_o a_o special_a blessing_n vouchsafe_v to_o we_o for_o this_o end_n that_o now_o in_o the_o time_n of_o peace_n we_o may_v prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n for_o see_v the_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v under_o affliction_n we_o be_v all_o in_o duty_n bind_v to_o wait_v continual_o when_o god_n will_v call_v we_o out_o to_o suffer_v for_o his_o sake_n no_o man_n can_v define_v the_o time_n or_o the_o manner_n of_o our_o trial_n but_o yet_o that_o it_o will_v come_v we_o must_v resolve_v because_o of_o the_o usual_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n god_n have_v for_o a_o long_a time_n send_v forth_o labourer_n into_o his_o harvest_n whereby_o no_o doubt_n many_o sheaf_n be_v gather_v into_o the_o lord_n barn_n now_o after_o this_o long_o gather_v there_o will_v come_v a_o day_n of_o â—â—â—â—ing_n the_o lord_n will_v take_v into_o his_o hand_n the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o affliction_n and_o put_v it_o into_o his_o corn_n and_o thereby_o try_v the_o chaff_n from_o the_o wheat_n it_o stand_v we_o therefore_o in_o hand_n to_o prepare_v ourselves_o in_o this_o time_n of_o peacâ—_n that_o we_o may_v be_v find_v good_a corn_n in_o the_o lord_n sieve_n and_o not_o chaff_n which_o must_v be_v cast_v into_o unquenchable_a fire_n second_o he_o call_v himself_o their_o copartner_n in_o affliction_n because_o his_o pitiful_a heart_n be_v move_v with_o the_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o all_o his_o fellow_n member_n when_o he_o remember_v their_o persecution_n and_o affliction_n under_o the_o cruel_a tyrant_n domitian_n and_o the_o same_o affection_n shall_v
he_o will_v have_v come_v to_o they_o but_o satan_n do_v hinder_v he_o he_o seek_v the_o trouble_n and_o sorrow_n of_o the_o minister_n not_o only_o by_o stir_v up_o persecution_n but_o by_o keepinh_v his_o people_n from_o profit_v by_o his_o ministry_n and_o therefore_o every_o minister_n have_v need_v to_o take_v pain_n with_o patience_n in_o his_o call_n and_o as_o christ_n join_v together_o labour_n and_o patience_n in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n so_o shall_v every_o christian_n after_o this_o direction_n join_v patience_n with_o his_o pain_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o his_o particular_a call_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o church_n commonwealth_n or_o family_n for_o look_v what_o be_v the_o estate_n of_o the_o minister_n in_o his_o place_n such_o shall_v be_v the_o estate_n of_o every_o child_n of_o god_n in_o he_o this_o therefore_o they_o must_v do_v first_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a call_n and_o therein_o labour_n and_o take_v pain_n with_o all_o good_a conscience_n then_o consider_v the_o cross_n do_v accompany_v godly_a diligence_n they_o must_v labour_v to_o join_v patience_n with_o their_o diligence_n for_o their_o continuance_n in_o welldoing_a even_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o for_o attain_v of_o this_o patience_n they_o must_v set_v before_o they_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n blessing_n and_o protection_n while_o they_o so_o continue_v not_o suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v dismay_v by_o any_o affliction_n and_o if_o we_o shall_v thus_o walk_v in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o particular_a place_n painful_o and_o with_o patience_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o commendation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o bless_a reward_n which_o far_o surpass_v the_o praise_n of_o man_n and_o their_o reward_n but_o on_o contrary_a if_o we_o walk_v in_o our_o calling_n negligent_o or_o else_o forsake_v they_o because_o of_o affliction_n or_o be_v impatient_a in_o our_o labour_n we_o shall_v loose_v our_o reward_n and_o undergo_v the_o rebuke_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v worse_o than_o all_o outward_a evil_n that_o can_v befall_v us._n the_o three_o special_a work_n for_o which_o christ_n commend_v this_o church_n be_v severity_n show_v against_o wicked_a man_n in_o these_o word_n and_o how_o thou_o can_v not_o bear_v they_o which_o be_v evil_a by_o evil_a man_n he_o mean_v such_o as_o live_v offensive_o and_o maintain_v manifest_a error_n and_o heresy_n these_o she_o can_v not_o bear_v but_o judge_v they_o as_o burden_n and_o therefore_o seek_v to_o disburden_v herself_o of_o they_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o it_o be_v a_o necessary_a thing_n for_o every_o church_n to_o be_v purge_v of_o evil_a man_n use_n the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o all_o age_n have_v put_v in_o practice_v this_o work_n so_o soon_o as_o cain_n have_v slay_v his_o brother_n abel_n 4.14_o god_n cast_v he_o out_o from_o his_o face_n as_o appear_z by_o his_o own_o complaint_n to_o wit_n from_o that_o particular_a place_n where_o adam_n and_o his_o family_n worship_v god_n when_o false_a prophet_n and_o idolater_n do_v arise_v among_o the_o israelit_n the_o lord_n command_v 8._o that_o they_o shall_v be_v kill_v and_o take_v from_o among_o they_o and_o therefore_o he_o say_v to_o jeremie_n 15.19_o if_o thou_o turn_v and_o repent_v i_o will_v bring_v thou_o again_o and_o if_o thou_o take_v away_o the_o precious_a from_o the_o vile_a thou_o shall_v be_v according_a to_o my_o word_n 1._o cor._n 5.4_o 5_o paul_n command_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o incestuous_a man_n be_v deliver_v unto_o satan_n the_o church_n purge_v of_o that_o old_a leaven_n and_o that_o wicked_a man_n put_v from_o among_o they_o verse_n 13._o beside_o the_o evidence_n of_o these_o testimony_n some_o reason_n may_v be_v add_v to_o prove_v the_o necessity_n of_o this_o separation_n first_o god_n will_v be_v worship_v in_o a_o holy_a manner_n and_o they_o that_o worship_n god_n must_v be_v purge_v and_o sanctify_v but_o evil_a man_n defile_v god_n worship_n and_o therefore_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v sever_v from_o the_o church_n second_o lest_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v infect_v with_o the_o contagion_n of_o their_o doctrine_n or_o the_o infection_n of_o their_o life_n for_o as_o leaven_n sour_v the_o whole_a lump_n so_o will_v evil_a man_n defile_v the_o whole_a church_n three_o they_o be_v burden_n to_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o must_v be_v cast_v out_o for_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v ease_v of_o every_o burden_n this_o doctrine_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n &_o aught_o to_o be_v practise_v of_o god_n church_n whereby_o we_o may_v see_v a_o common_a fault_n in_o the_o most_o congregation_n among_o we_o wherein_o all_o that_o will_v be_v admit_v not_o only_o to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n but_o also_o unto_o the_o lord_n table_n hand_n over_o head_n without_o restraint_n as_o though_o every_o man_n be_v a_o good_a &_o sound_a christian_n whereas_o experience_n show_v that_o many_o be_v ignorant_a many_o contemner_n of_o the_o gospel_n many_o sabbath_n breaker_n drunkard_n and_o blasphemer_n all_o which_o ought_v to_o be_v bar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n sever_v from_o the_o church_n as_o burden_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o christ_n have_v give_v to_o his_o church_n a_o power_n judicial_a to_o suspend_v evil_a man_n from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o to_o excommunicate_v they_o from_o the_o outward_a fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n for_o else_o he_o will_v not_o have_v commend_v this_o minister_n with_o his_o church_n for_o the_o execution_n of_o this_o power_n the_o reason_n allege_v to_o the_o contrary_a be_v of_o no_o force_n i._o say_v they_o the_o parable_n matth._n 13.30_o allow_v the_o grow_v together_o of_o tare_n and_o wheat_n till_o harvest_n and_o therefore_o evil_a man_n must_v be_v suffer_v in_o the_o church_n without_o separation_n answ._n in_o that_o parable_n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o any_o particular_a purge_n of_o the_o church_n by_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n but_o of_o the_o universal_a purge_n of_o his_o whole_a church_n by_o his_o holy_a angel_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n for_o there_o the_o field_n do_v not_o signify_v any_o particular_a church_n but_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o the_o servant_n be_v not_o mâ—n_z but_o angel_n that_o must_v gather_v together_o all_o both_o good_a and_o bad_a in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o last_o judgement_n again_o they_o allege_v luk_n 14.23_o compel_v they_o in_o the_o high_a way_n to_o come_v into_o the_o supper_n here_o say_v they_o all_o must_v be_v bring_v in_o but_o none_o must_v be_v exclude_v the_o society_n of_o the_o church_n ans._n christ_n speak_v not_o of_o compel_a man_n unto_o the_o sacrament_n but_o unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n whereto_o man_n must_v be_v cause_v to_o subject_v themselves_o which_o hinder_v nothing_o why_o the_o ungodly_a shall_v not_o be_v debar_v from_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v the_o seal_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n ordain_v only_o for_o such_o as_o repent_v and_o believe_v qu._n see_v this_o separation_n must_v be_v make_v how_o far_o forth_o may_v we_o converse_v with_o those_o that_o be_v open_o evil_a &_o offensive_a either_o for_o life_n or_o doctrine_n ans._n evil_a man_n must_v be_v consider_v diverse_a way_n first_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o commonwealth_n of_o some_o city_n or_o incorporation_n second_o as_o they_o be_v member_n of_o some_o particular_a church_n by_o toleration_n in_o the_o first_o regard_n it_o be_v lawful_a for_o we_o to_o converse_v with_o they_o i._o for_o outward_a deal_n and_o civil_a affair_n as_o bargain_v buy_v and_o sell_v etc._n etc._n ii_o we_o may_v maintain_v outward_a civil_a peace_n with_o they_o so_o paul_n command_v the_o roman_n 12.18_o to_o have_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n so_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lay_v that_o be_v so_o far_o as_o it_o will_v stand_v with_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n iii_o in_o this_o civil_a converse_v with_o the_o wicked_a we_o must_v perform_v all_o duty_n of_o outward_a courtesy_n and_o love_n unto_o they_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o do_v not_o dishonour_n god_n or_o hinder_v the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o paul_n command_v we_o to_o be_v 3.2_o soft_a and_o courteous_a show_v all_o meekness_n unto_o all_o man_n even_o to_o evil_a man_n as_o the_o reason_n follow_v show_v 3._o for_o we_o ourselves_o be_v in_o time_n past_o unwise_a disobedient_a deceive_v etc._n etc._n and_o then_o be_v we_o evil_a second_o consider_v they_o as_o dweller_n in_o the_o church_n and_o member_n by_o permission_n and_o so_o we_o may_v live_v with_o they_o in_o it_o for_o we_o may_v not_o make_v a_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n because_o wicked_a man_n be_v permit_v therein_o christ_n live_v among_o the_o
reveal_v his_o will_n not_o to_o the_o proud_a but_o to_o the_o meek_a and_o lowly_a and_o as_o isaiah_n say_v to_o they_o that_o be_v of_o a_o contrite_a spirit_n isay._n 57.15_o and_o in_o this_o humble_v of_o himself_o a_o man_n must_v renounce_v his_o own_o natural_a wit_n and_o reason_n and_o become_v nothing_o in_o himself_o but_o even_o a_o fool_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o own_o conceit_n also_o he_o must_v unfeigned_o pray_v to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v reveal_v unto_o he_o his_o truth_n ask_v say_v christ_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v you_o even_o 11.13_o the_o holy_a ghost_n unto_o they_o that_o desire_v of_o the_o father_n and_o s._n james_n say_v 1.5_o if_o any_o man_n lack_v wisdom_n let_v he_o ask_v of_o god_n which_o give_v to_o all_o man_n liberal_o second_o after_o preparation_n he_o must_v labour_v to_o know_v thorough_o what_o the_o false_a teacher_n be_v and_o what_o be_v theiâ—_n opinion_n with_o the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n thereof_o wherein_o they_o agree_v and_o wherein_o they_o differ_v from_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n maintain_v by_o the_o church_n for_o it_o be_v a_o foul_a oversight_n to_o misconceive_v the_o state_n of_o the_o adversary_n question_n by_o propound_v it_o otherwise_o than_o they_o hold_v as_o it_o fall_v out_o with_o many_o in_o the_o handle_n of_o controversy_n three_o due_a proof_n must_v be_v make_v whether_o the_o adversary_n doctrine_n be_v of_o man_n or_o of_o god_n this_o be_v god_n commandment_n 1._o john_n 4.1_o prove_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o and_o for_o trial_n hereof_o we_o must_v have_v recourse_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n it_o must_v be_v judge_n in_o this_o cause_n isa._n 8._o vers_fw-la 20_o to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n if_o they_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o this_o word_n it_o be_v because_o there_o be_v no_o light_n in_o they_o john_n 5.39_o search_v the_o scripture_n for_o in_o they_o you_o look_v to_o have_v eternal_a life_n and_o they_o be_v they_o which_o testify_v of_o i_o who_o be_v so_o fit_a to_o judge_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n as_o god_n himself_o and_o so_o he_o do_v in_o his_o write_a word_n of_o all_o doctrine_n and_o opinion_n in_o religion_n the_o scripture_n show_v whether_o the_o doctrine_n examine_v be_v direct_o gather_v thence_o and_o by_o just_a consequent_a or_o not_o four_o serious_a consideration_n must_v be_v have_v of_o the_o faith_n and_o live_v of_o the_o teacher_n examine_v for_o a_o false_a teacher_n by_o god_n just_a judgement_n be_v usual_o a_o wicked_a liver_n and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v 1â—_n you_o shall_v know_v they_o by_o their_o fruit_n if_o they_o be_v thorough_o examine_v such_o they_o will_v appear_v howsoever_o for_o a_o time_n they_o may_v blear_v the_o eye_n of_o man_n as_o the_o history_n of_o the_o church_n in_o many_o famous_a heretic_n do_v plain_o declare_v the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o discovery_n be_v sentence_n give_v in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n the_o church_n here_o give_v out_o a_o sharp_a and_o severe_a sentence_n against_o they_o she_o call_v they_o false_a apostle_n and_o liar_n and_o yet_o she_o sin_v not_o for_o christ_n commend_v she_o for_o it_o though_o to_o rail_v or_o taunt_n can_v beseem_v any_o yet_o magistrate_n and_o minister_n in_o their_o place_n may_v give_v ouâ—_n severe_a speech_n against_o offender_n in_o token_n of_o detestation_n to_o their_o sin_n and_o not_o offend_v thus_o john_n call_v the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n a_o generation_n of_o viper_n matth._n 3.7_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n call_v herod_n a_o fox_n luk._n 13.32_o and_o paul_n call_v the_o galatian_n fool_n gal._n 3.1_o and_o in_o this_o place_n the_o church_n call_v these_o false_a teacher_n liar_n which_o be_v very_o much_o for_o therein_o she_o accuse_v they_o of_o three_o thing_n first_o of_o teach_v that_o which_o be_v false_a indeed_o second_o that_o they_o know_v it_o to_o be_v false_a and_o so_o sin_v of_o knowledge_n three_o that_o they_o do_v it_o of_o malice_n with_o intent_n to_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o church_n and_o to_o deceive_v the_o people_n in_o this_o discovery_n use_n we_o may_v observe_v the_o just_a accomplishment_n of_o paul_n prophecy_n acts._n 20.29_o 30._o namely_o that_o there_o shall_v rise_v up_o among_o the_o ephesian_n grievous_a wolf_n and_o man_n speak_v perverse_a thing_n and_o such_o be_v these_o false_a apostle_n who_o after_o examination_n be_v find_v liar_n again_o see_v in_o the_o day_n of_o this_o apostle_n john_n man_n dare_v presume_v to_o claim_v apostolic_a authority_n and_o call_v themselves_o apostle_n when_o they_o be_v not_o no_o marvel_n if_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n six_o hundred_o year_n after_o do_v challenge_v to_o himself_o to_o be_v peter_n successor_n and_o to_o have_v apostolic_a authority_n and_o that_o they_o dare_v now_o avouch_v some_o book_n to_o be_v scripture_n which_o be_v not_o as_o also_o bring_v in_o their_o tradition_n &_o unwritten_a verity_n to_o be_v receive_v and_o obey_v equal_o with_o god_n word_n verse_n 3._o thou_o have_v suffer_v and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n have_v labour_v here_o our_o saviour_n christ_n declare_v how_o this_o minister_n and_o church_n of_o ephesus_n oppose_v themselves_o against_o false_a teacher_n after_o their_o discovery_n the_o manner_n we_o shall_v see_v in_o handle_v the_o point_n particular_o as_o they_o lie_v in_o order_n thou_o have_v suffer_v or_o thou_o have_v bear_v a_o burden_n for_o the_o word_n signify_v to_o be_v press_v down_o under_o a_o great_a burden_n this_o burden_n be_v the_o trouble_n which_o false_a apostle_n bring_v upon_o they_o after_o they_o be_v discover_v partly_o by_o open_a affliction_n and_o persecution_n partly_o by_o the_o spread_a of_o their_o heretical_a and_o schismatical_a doctrine_n these_o false_a teacher_n be_v ebion_n cerinthus_n martion_n and_o such_o like_a who_o in_o the_o day_n of_o john_n trouble_v this_o church_n as_o history_n do_v show_v here_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v god_n will_v that_o the_o best_a church_n shall_v be_v trouble_v by_o wicked_a man_n and_o heretical_a teacher_n who_o both_o by_o false_a doctrine_n and_o persecution_n become_v grievous_a burden_n this_o the_o lord_n permit_v for_o weighty_a cause_n i._o that_o true_a believer_n may_v be_v excite_v more_o constant_o to_o embrace_v the_o sincere_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o jude_n 3._o most_o worthy_o exhort_v the_o christian_n in_o his_o time_n to_o fight_v for_o the_o common_a faith_n ii_o that_o professor_n may_v be_v try_v whether_o they_o sound_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o not_o 1._o cor._n 11.19_o it_o be_v â—ette_v say_v paul_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v heresy_n in_o the_o church_n that_o they_o which_o be_v sound_a in_o the_o faith_n and_o approve_a may_v â—ee_n know_v iii_o that_o god_n may_v execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o wicked_a man_n and_o hypocrite_n that_o have_v not_o love_v his_o truth_n reveal_v unto_o they_o 2._o thess._n 2.10_o 11._o god_n give_v they_o up_o to_o strange_a illusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o have_v not_o love_v his_o truth_n for_o many_o know_v the_o word_n that_o love_v it_o not_o this_o must_v teach_v we_o to_o take_v heed_n of_o a_o common_a scandal_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v use_n to_o be_v offend_v at_o religion_n because_o there_o be_v in_o the_o church_n schism_n and_o heresy_n which_o come_v not_o from_o the_o gospel_n but_o from_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n who_o sow_v his_o tare_n among_o the_o lord_n wheat_n we_o must_v consider_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n there_o shall_v be_v such_o evil_n in_o his_o church_n and_o therefore_o shall_v labour_v to_o be_v so_o far_o from_o offence_n that_o hereby_o we_o be_v rather_o provoke_v with_o more_o cheerfulness_n and_o courage_n to_o love_n and_o embrace_v religion_n and_o have_v patience_n and_o for_o my_o name_n have_v suffer_v etc._n etc._n here_o be_v set_v down_o the_o deal_n of_o this_o church_n against_o these_o false_a apostle_n in_o all_o their_o persecution_n but_o first_o note_v the_o coherence_n of_o this_o virtue_n with_o the_o former_a thou_o have_v suffer_v trouble_n and_o have_v have_v patience_n quest._n how_o can_v these_o stand_v together_o it_o be_v against_o man_n nature_n in_o trouble_n to_o be_v patient_a for_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n make_v man_n discontent_n and_o to_o fret_v against_o god_n and_o man_n answ._n they_o stand_v not_o by_o nature_n but_o by_o grace_n rom._n 5._o vers_fw-la 4._o tribulation_n bring_v forth_o patience_n namely_o to_o all_o those_o that_o have_v receive_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n for_o to_o they_o god_n give_v the_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n in_o their_o trouble_n shed_v
by_o the_o name_n of_o counsel_n first_o â—ere_z note_z that_o christ_n commend_v this_o church_n and_o give_v her_o counsel_n but_o do_v not_o at_o all_o rebuke_n she_o for_o her_o fault_n as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n hence_o the_o papist_n gather_v that_o god_n church_n and_o so_o the_o member_n thereof_o may_v live_v without_o sin_n and_o fulfil_v the_o law_n but_o they_o be_v deceive_v christ_n therefore_o abstain_v from_o reproof_n of_o this_o church_n not_o for_o that_o he_o have_v not_o any_o thing_n against_o they_o but_o for_o these_o two_o cause_n especial_o first_o because_o this_o church_n of_o smyrna_n do_v true_o repent_v and_o believe_v and_o do_v not_o decay_v in_o grace_n as_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n do_v and_o therefore_o have_v the_o pardon_n of_o her_o sin_n and_o be_v in_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n second_o this_o church_n do_v endeavour_n to_o obey_v christ_n and_o to_o testify_v her_o faith_n and_o love_n thereby_o now_o god_n accept_v the_o desire_n and_o will_n of_o obedience_n in_o his_o child_n as_o obedience_n itself_o and_o therefore_o do_v not_o reprove_v they_o for_o any_o fault_n that_o be_v among_o they_o see_v this_o church_n be_v in_o affliction_n be_v so_o far_o forth_o accept_v that_o christ_n reprove_v nothing_o in_o she_o we_o be_v teach_v it_o be_v profitable_a for_o god_n church_n and_o people_n sometime_o to_o be_v in_o affliction_n for_o thereby_o be_v the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n preserve_v as_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o many_o grievous_a sin_n prevent_v which_o otherwise_o god_n child_n may_v fall_v into_o the_o counsel_n itself_o contain_v three_o part_n a_o precept_n a_o pprophecy_n and_o a_o precept_n again_o the_o first_o precept_n be_v in_o these_o word_n fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v this_o precept_n may_v seem_v to_o be_v against_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n as_o phil._n 2.12_o work_v out_o your_o salvation_n in_o fear_n and_o tremble_a and_o rom._n 11.20_o â—e_v not_o high_o mind_v but_o fear_n answ._n there_o be_v three_o kind_n of_o fear_n i._o natural_a fear_n ii_o fear_n proceed_v from_o grace_n iii_o a_o distrustful_a fearful_a proceed_n from_o unbelief_n i._o the_o natural_a fear_n be_v a_o decline_a and_o eschew_v of_o death_n and_o those_o thing_n that_o tend_v thereto_o this_o fear_n be_v in_o all_o man_n in_o as_o much_o as_o every_o thing_n desire_v to_o preserve_v itself_o this_o be_v in_o christ_n who_o in_o his_o agony_n fear_v death_n as_o it_o be_v a_o separation_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n asunder_o yet_o this_o be_v no_o sin_n in_o he_o but_o only_o a_o infirmity_n without_o sin_n the_o second_o kind_n of_o fear_n be_v that_o which_o come_v from_o grace_n mal._n 1.6_o if_o i_o be_v a_o master_n where_o be_v my_o â—onor_n if_o i_o be_v a_o father_n where_o be_v my_o fear_n this_o fear_n be_v a_o reverend_a awe_n towards_o god_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o judgement_n and_o this_o be_v a_o virtue_n and_o no_o sin_n the_o three_o be_v distrustful_a fear_n when_o man_n for_o affliction_n forsake_v religion_n and_o obedience_n to_o god_n stand_v more_o in_o fear_n of_o man_n than_o of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v that_o fear_n which_o christ_n in_o this_o place_n forbid_v be_v a_o sin_n that_o draw_v man_n from_o god_n unto_o perdition_n in_o this_o commandment_n christ_n do_v two_o thing_n first_o he_o give_v they_o and_o we_o to_o understand_v what_o be_v the_o sin_n in_o which_o every_o man_n be_v conceive_v and_o the_o seed_n whereof_o remain_v still_o in_o the_o child_n of_o god_n namely_o distrustful_a unbelief_n whereby_o man_n fear_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o creature_n more_o than_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n which_o proceed_v from_o this_o that_o man_n consider_v not_o of_o god_n as_o he_o extend_v his_o providence_n over_o all_o thing_n and_o as_o he_o be_v a_o mighty_a judge_n take_v revenge_n upon_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n second_o here_o christ_n describe_v the_o mean_n whereby_o god_n people_n may_v arm_v themselves_o against_o all_o peril_n and_o trouble_n whatsoever_o to_o wit_n christian_a fortitude_n which_o be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n proceed_v from_o true_a faith_n enable_v a_o man_n to_o lay_v aside_o all_o fear_n and_o with_o courage_n to_o undergo_v all_o danger_n whatsoever_o that_o he_o may_v in_o life_n and_o death_n maintain_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n this_o virtue_n god_n prescribe_v to_o the_o prophet_n when_o they_o be_v to_o enter_v into_o their_o call_n and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o his_o apostle_n and_o to_o this_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n may_v speak_v unto_o their_o people_n as_o christ_n speak_v unto_o this_o church_n fear_v not_o but_o the_o truth_n be_v if_o they_o deal_v faithful_o they_o must_v change_v their_o note_n and_o say_v with_o joell_n 1â—.15_n wail_v and_o howl_v you_o priest_n and_o people_n lie_v in_o sackcloth_n and_o ash_n because_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n vengeance_n be_v at_o hand_n for_o it_o be_v lamentable_a to_o see_v the_o state_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o our_o people_n of_o who_o we_o may_v general_o say_v with_o the_o prophet_n â—_o there_o be_v no_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o the_o land_n and_o where_o knowledge_n be_v there_o be_v little_a conscience_n to_o live_v thereafter_o consider_v also_o how_o the_o most_o be_v carnal_a mind_v dead_a in_o sin_n they_o savour_v not_o thâ—_n thing_n that_o pertain_v to_o god_n kingdom_n but_o their_o heart_n be_v whole_o possess_v with_o earthly_a desire_n &_o delight_n and_o spiritual_a thing_n affect_v they_o not_o yea_o in_o all_o place_n we_o shall_v see_v that_o as_o natural_a sleep_n wrap_v up_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o body_n so_o a_o spiritual_a slumber_n benumb_v their_o mind_n and_o heart_n for_o though_o god_n preach_v daily_o unto_o we_o by_o his_o judgement_n yet_o like_o the_o old_a world_n we_o know_v nothing_o of_o the_o evil_a day_n we_o never_o call_v to_o mind_v the_o judgement_n to_o come_v and_o if_o herunto_o we_o join_v the_o common_a cry_a sin_n of_o this_o land_n as_o swear_v curse_a oppression_n sabbath_n break_v drunkenness_n whoredom_n and_o all_o uncleanness_n yea_o atheism_n itself_o the_o ground_n of_o all_o how_o can_v we_o say_v with_o christ_n fear_v not_o yea_o rather_o we_o must_v call_v man_n to_o repentance_n in_o sackcloth_n and_o ash_n for_o god_n be_v jealous_a of_o his_o glory_n neither_o will_v he_o always_o be_v chide_v nor_o wink_v at_o our_o iniquity_n he_o have_v whet_v his_o sword_n and_o bend_v his_o bow_n and_o unless_o we_o repent_v the_o day_n of_o havoc_n will_v come_v short_o wherein_o he_o will_v take_v vengeance_n upon_o all_o our_o iniquity_n and_o although_o this_o be_v the_o common_a state_n of_o our_o land_n yet_o christ_n have_v his_o remnant_n among_o we_o who_o mourn_n for_o the_o sin_n and_o abomination_n of_o the_o time_n and_o do_v endeavour_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o these_o it_o may_v be_v say_v fear_v not_o but_o take_v to_o yourselves_o christian_n courage_n &_o arm_v yourselves_o therewith_o lay_v aside_o all_o distrustful_a fear_n and_o glorify_v god_n in_o your_o heart_n strive_v to_o keep_v the_o faith_n in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o so_o shall_v christ_n appear_v to_o your_o joy_n when_o the_o wicked_a shall_v be_v ashamed_a 66.5_o and_o to_o move_v god_n child_n to_o this_o christian_n fortitude_n first_o let_v they_o consider_v what_o a_o judgement_n of_o god_n be_v due_a unto_o they_o that_o be_v distrustful_o fearful_a when_o they_o shall_v suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n revel_v 21.8_o they_o must_v have_v their_o reward_n in_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n among_o the_o damn_a second_o let_v they_o observe_v the_o lord_n presence_n and_o his_o gracious_a promise_n of_o protection_n in_o distress_n 14.7_o he_o will_v cause_v his_o angel_n to_o pitch_v their_o tent_n about_o they_o that_o no_o peril_n shall_v hurt_v they_o 2._o king_n 6._o when_o a_o mighty_a army_n come_v against_o elisha_n his_o servant_n be_v fore_o afraid_a but_o mark_v how_o he_o comfort_v he_o 16._o fear_v not_o say_v he_o for_o they_o that_o be_v with_o we_o be_v more_o than_o they_o that_o be_v with_o they_o and_o so_o it_o be_v with_o god_n child_n three_o let_v they_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o honourable_a estate_n to_o suffer_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ._n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v exceed_o when_o they_o have_v be_v beat_v 5.41_o that_o they_o be_v count_v worthy_a to_o suffer_v any_o
enemy_n to_o the_o word_n 40.2_o b._n nakedness_n twofold_n 206.2_o m._n name_n of_o god_n child_n know_v to_o christ._n 172.1_o m._n châ—ists_n new_a name_n 195.1_o m._n who_o have_v it_o 197.1_o m._n nazaâ—it_fw-la why_o iâ—_n christ_n so_o call_v 178.1_o m._n necessity_n two_o fold_n absolute_a and_o in_o in_o part_n 5.2_o m._n the_o new_a name_n give_v by_o christ._n 131.1_o b._n niâ—holaiâ—anes_n their_o sect_n 93.2_o b._n &_o 120_o 2._o b._n and_o opinion_n ibid._n number_n of_o god_n true_a servant_n small_a 171.2_o c._n o_o obedience_n to_o christ_n absolute_a 21.2_o c._n and_o 22.1_o renew_a obedience_n needful_a 90.1_o c._n true_a obedience_n describe_v in_o four_o thing_n 152.1_o c._n &_o 153.1_o offence_n what_o it_o be_v the_o kind_n of_o it_o etc._n etc._n 117.1_o m._n to_o cast_v offence_n before_o man_n a_o property_n of_o false_a teacher_n 117_o 2._o m._n to_o beware_v of_o give_v offence_n 119.1_o c_o and_o of_o take_v they_o be_v give_v ibid._n 2._o m._n old_a sinner_n duty_n 86.2_o c._n how_o to_o open_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n to_o christ._n 216.2_o c._n &_o 217.1_o opinion_n diversity_n of_o opinion_n iâ—_n religion_n aught_o not_o to_o make_v man_n negligent_a 48.1_o b._n overcome_v spiritual_a enemy_n how_o 97.1_o m._n each_o one_o shall_v endeavour_v thereto_o ibid._n â—_o b._n many_o excellent_a motive_n 194.1_o b._n p_o paradise_n of_o god_n describe_v 98.1_o m._n our_o duty_n in_o respect_n of_o it_o 98_o 2._o b._n patience_n the_o christian_a man_n a_o 〈◊〉_d our_o 40.1_o b._n &_o 78.2_o c._n needful_a to_o minister_n 73.2_o m._n c._n to_o each_o christian_n 73.1_o m._n ground_n of_o patience_n god_n speedy_a deliverance_n 6.2_o b._n god_n decree_n for_o the_o end_n of_o they_o 107.2_o b_o patience_n needful_a in_o every_o good_a work_n 136.1_o c._n god_n patience_n towards_o grievous_a sinner_n 124.2_o c._n &_o 143.1_o b._n in_o wait_v for_o their_o conversion_n 214.2_o c_o peoples_n duty_n against_o heretic_n 79_o 2._o c_o peace_n christian_a peace_n in_o 6._o branch_n 13.2_o b._n persecutor_n of_o god_n church_n inspire_v &_o guide_v by_o satan_n 105.2_o c._n 114.2_o c._n perseverance_n in_o grace_n excellent_a 30.2_o m._n pilgrimage_n vain_a 39.1_o m._n pillar_n the_o use_n of_o erect_v pillar_n and_o christâ—_n allusion_n thereto_o 194.1.2_o to_o pity_v the_o afflict_a 37._o â—_o c._n place_n no_o difference_n thereof_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n in_o respect_n of_o holiness_n 39_o â—_o b_o poor_a man_n shall_v seek_v for_o spiritual_a riches_n 101.1_o m._n who_o be_v poor_a spiritual_o 205.2_o m._n &_o 206.1_o b._n povertie_n may_v accompany_v true_a piety_n 100.2_o b._n popish_a writer_n too_o much_o affect_v 4â—_n 2_o b._n they_o be_v jezabel_n 141.1_o b._n popeâ—_n supremacy_n in_o the_o church_n confute_v 5281._o b._n &_o 155.1_o b._n title_n of_o holiness_n blasphemous_a 176.2_o c._n popish_a church_n no_o church_n 102.2_o c._n and_o 103.1_o m._n popish_a school_n satin_n throne_n 111.2_o m_o popery_n overthrow_v christ_n kingdom_n and_o law_n 117.2_o c._n &_o 118._o preparation_n of_o ourselves_o for_o the_o lord_n needful_a 54.1_o b_o prayer_n to_o angel_n unlawful_a 7.1_o m._n power_n from_o christ_n give_v they_o that_o overcome_v 154.1_o m._n priest_n believer_n be_v priest_n and_o how_o 25.2_o b._n 26.1_o b._n their_o duty_n in_o respect_n thereof_o 18.2_o b._n christ_n presence_n shall_v be_v engrave_v in_o our_o heart_n 72.1_o b._n use_v of_o ibid._n m._n &_o 105.1_o &_o 111.1_o b._n god_n prescience_n be_v not_o the_o cause_n of_o thing_n 191.2_o m._n pâ—â—ate_a person_n how_o they_o must_v convey_v their_o knowledge_n to_o other_o 80_o 1._o m._n promise_n of_o deliverance_n be_v rather_o from_o the_o hurt_n of_o affliction_n than_o from_o affliction_n itself_o 190_o 2._o c._n prophet_n mark_v of_o a_o true_a prophet_n .8.1_o c._n and_o of_o a_o faâ—se_n 140.1_o m._n proâ—eâ—ion_n in_o common_a judgement_n to_o they_o that_o maintain_v purity_n in_o life_n and_o doctrine_n 151.1_o c._n pride_n be_v not_o the_o first_o sin_n 203.2_o m._n pride_n spiritual_a common_a 202.2_o m._n providence_n god_n providence_n the_o first_o cause_n of_o all_o 106.1_o c._n the_o power_n thereof_o see_v in_o the_o instrument_n which_o he_o â—seth_v ibid._n 2._o punishment_n proportionable_a unto_o sin_n even_o in_o the_o thing_n man_n abuse_v 145_o 1._o m._n and_o for_o measure_n 148.2_o m._n punishment_n of_o sin_n set_v out_o â—04_n 1_o c_o &_o 2._o purity_n of_o religion_n ought_v constant_o to_o be_v maintain_v 152.2_o c._n r_o rage_v person_n against_o the_o word_n be_v to_o be_v pity_v 59.1_o c._n read_v the_o word_n god_n ordinance_n 481_o 2._o m._n it_o be_v enjoin_v both_o public_o &_o private_o direction_n in_o read_v the_o word_n for_o application_n 140.1_o m._n regeneration_n and_o remission_n of_o sin_n go_v together_o 131.1_o c._n regeneration_n found_v on_o christ._n 198.2_o c_o religion_n of_o the_o three_o great_a religion_n jew_n turk_n aâ—d_v papist_n 152.1_o b._n how_o to_o know_v the_o true_a religion_n 18.1_o m._n only_o in_o true_a religion_n may_v a_o man_n be_v save_v 112.2_o m._n not_o to_o forsake_v it_o for_o contention_n 78.2_o b._n &_o 94.1_o c._n defence_n of_o our_o religion_n 118_o 2._o c_o &_o 119_o 1_o remedy_n in_o relapse_n 86.2_o c._n remembrance_n of_o god_n word_n a_o excellent_a thing_n 169.1_o c._n how_o to_o remember_v god_n word_n read_v or_o hear_v 10.1_o b_o 169.2_o m._n repetition_n of_o the_o same_o doctrine_n lawful_a 109.1_o b._n repentance_n handle_v in_o 5._o thing_n 87.2_o m._n 88.89_o repentance_n describe_v 122.2_o m._n why_o so_o often_o urge_v ibid._n c._n it_o must_v be_v renew_v daily_o 122.1_o b._n 170_o 1._o m._n the_o practice_n of_o it_o 143.1_o c._n &_o 146.1_o c_o it_o must_v not_o be_v defer_v 141.2_o b._n it_o prevent_v temporal_a punishment_n 1â—6_n 1_o c._n it_o must_v be_v for_o want_v of_o good_a duty_n 213.2_o b._n reproach_n follow_v piety_n 101.2_o m._n from_o who_o they_o come_v ibid._n c._n not_o to_o be_v marvel_v at_o 132.1_o m._n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v reproach_v 140.2_o b_o resurrection_n ground_v on_o christ._n 67.1_o m._n revelation_n describe_v 2.1_o b._n how_o many_o way_n show_v from_o god_n ibid._n in_o how_o divine_a and_o diabolical_a revelation_n differ_v ib._n 2._o b._n &_o 36.2_o b._n reverence_n all_o true_a reverence_n proceed_v from_o god_n favour_n 188.2_o b._n reverent_a behaviour_n in_o holy_a assembly_n 63.2_o m._n reward_n of_o god_n 108.2_o b._n riches_n spiritual_a stand_v in_o twâ—_n thing_n 101.1_o b_o 205.2_o m._n how_o to_o become_v rich_a in_o god_n 208.1_o c._n righteousness_n distinguish_v 84.1_o m._n rome_n not_o the_o motheâ—_n church_n 12.2_o â—_o it_o be_v dead_a 164.2_o c._n s_o saboth_n day_n the_o lord_n day_n 42.2_o c._n and_o 43.1_o why_o so_o call_v ib._n &_o whether_o it_o may_v be_v change_v 44.1_o m._n sabboth-breaker_n reprove_v 14.2_o m._n and_o 45.1_o man_n debar_v from_o public_a assembly_n shall_v keep_v the_o saboth_n 45.2_o m_o sacrament_n not_o to_o be_v administer_v to_o all_o 74.2_o c._n saint_n may_v be_v honour_v how_o 114.2_o m._n saint_n iâ—_n heaâ—en_o no_o patroness_n over_o kingdom_n 155.1_o m._n nor_o to_o be_v â—â—aved_v unto_o ibid._n sanctification_n in_o part_n in_o this_o life_n 63.2_o c_o satan_n policy_n for_o his_o kingdom_n in_o revive_v ancient_a vice_n and_o heresy_n 139.2_o c._n scripture_n christ_n royalty_n 3.2_o m._n excellency_n of_o scripture_n 4.1_o m._n &_o 8.2_o m_o end_n of_o all_o scripture_n 8.2_o c._n how_o to_o know_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n 17.2_o c._n god_n certify_v it_o 47.2_o c._n search_v by_o christ_n in_o the_o church_n 168.1_o c_o security_n twofold_n 85.2_o c_o security_n carnal_a abound_v 57.1_o c._n separation_n from_o the_o church_n unlawful_a 75.2_o b._n servant_n of_o christ_n honour_v high_o 4.2_o m._n &_o 7.2_o b._n &_o 154.2_o b._n how_o man_n become_v his_o servant_n 141.1_o c_o we_o must_v do_v service_n each_o to_o other_o and_o how_o 135.1_o m._n motive_n to_o it_o ibid._n sickness_n come_v from_o god_n hand_n 145.2_o b._n sinne_n be_v filthy_a spot_v 23.2_o m_o they_o make_v we_o fly_v god_n presence_n 62.2_o b_o our_o behaviour_n in_o respect_n of_o they_o 17â—_n 1_o c_o remedy_n and_o help_n against_o sin_n 62.1_o b_o &_o 72.2_o m._n &_o 1â—3_n 1_o c._n &_o 169.2_o m._n motive_n to_o avoid_v sin_n 154.2_o m._n and_o 182.2_o c._n &_o 214.1_o c._n 55.2_o b._n grievous_a sinner_n not_o debar_v from_o heaven_n if_o they_o repent_v 122.1_o c._n 143._o 1._o b._n 106.2_o b._n slumber_v spiritual_a common_a 104.2_o m._n sound_v grace_n shall_v each_o one_o labour_n for_o 106.2_o c._n how_o to_o speak_v in_o our_o own_o behalf_n 12.1_o m._n spirit_n promise_v to_o the_o apostle_n peculiar_o 69.1_o
5.2_o give_v entrance_n to_o grace_n 10.3_o access_n to_o god_n in_o prayer_n 11._o make_v the_o elder_n well_o report_v of_o and_o each_o christian_n to_o 1.24_o stand_v to_o the_o profession_n of_o christ._n it_o be_v that_o 3.17_o hand_n by_o which_o we_o must_v apprehend_v christ_n that_o 6.16_o shield_n by_o which_o we_o resist_v all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o that_o 13_o mean_v by_o which_o we_o do_v good_a to_o other_o 3.7_o by_o faith_n we_o receive_v the_o spirit_n 8.1_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n 3.12_o we_o be_v rise_v with_o he_o 3.17_o he_o dwell_v in_o our_o heart_n 6.35_o we_o feed_v on_o he_o continual_o 5.8_o resist_v satan_n 1.13_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n 4.2_o and_o the_o word_n which_o we_o hear_v become_v profitable_a and_o what_o shall_v i_o say_v faith_n be_v of_o such_o a_o quality_n that_o it_o 2.7_o unit_v we_o to_o christ_n 8._o make_v we_o certain_a of_o our_o salvation_n 3.13_o bold_a in_o our_o profession_n minister_v 3.28_o true_a joy_n 15.28_o give_v temporal_a blessing_n 17.19_o sanctify_v our_o gift_n and_o make_v we_o refuse_v the_o 24._o pleasure_n of_o this_o present_a world_n in_o a_o word_n no_o sin_n can_v condemn_v he_o who_o have_v this_o true_a faith_n and_o no_o virtue_n can_v save_v he_o who_o want_v it_o to_o come_v to_o the_o second_o which_o be_v christ_n the_o object_n of_o faith_n the_o most_o comely_a garment_n that_o ever_o we_o can_v wear_v it_o be_v to_o be_v cover_v with_o the_o 13.13_o robe_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n 27.15_o jacob_n be_v bless_v by_o esau_n garment_n and_o we_o be_v bless_v by_o christ_n garment_n what_o we_o see_v through_o a_o green_a glass_n seem_v all_o to_o be_v green_a and_o what_o god_n see_v through_o christ_n it_o be_v all_o amiable_a we_o must_v put_v on_o this_o apparel_n not_o as_o the_o church_n in_o the_o canticle_n on_o i_o have_v put_v off_o my_o clothes_n how_o shall_v i_o put_v they_o on_o again_o or_o as_o a_o gown_n that_o we_o cast_v off_o when_o we_o come_v to_o our_o home_n but_o we_o must_v so_o put_v he_o on_o that_o we_o never_o put_v he_o off_o again_o we_o must_v put_v he_o on_o by_o imputation_n imitation_n infusion_n and_o profession_n by_o imputation_n of_o his_o righteousness_n imitation_n of_o his_o virtue_n infusion_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o profession_n of_o his_o name_n thus_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o get_v christ_n for_o what_o though_o a_o man_n can_v command_v the_o earth_n with_o alexander_n the_o 14._o sea_n with_o moses_n the_o 1._o fire_n with_o eliah_n and_o the_o 10._o sun_n with_o josuah_n what_o though_o he_o be_v as_o rich_a as_o 4._o solomon_n as_o wise_a as_o 16.23_o achitophel_n as_o strong_a as_o 16._o samson_n as_o swift_a as_o 18.19_o ahimaaz_n as_o beautiful_a as_o 18._o absalon_n as_o fortunate_a as_o 33._o metellus_n and_o descend_v as_o 3.8_o paul_n be_v of_o the_o blood_n royal_a of_o prince_n yet_o have_v not_o christ_n he_o have_v nothing_o yea_o say_v a_o man_n have_v the_o abstinence_n of_o aristyde_v the_o innocence_n of_o photion_n the_o holiness_n of_o socrates_n the_o alm_n deed_n of_o cimon_n the_o moderation_n of_o camillus_n the_o honesty_n justice_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o both_o cato_n all_o these_o out_o of_o christ_n be_v but_o augustine_n splendida_fw-la peccata_fw-la and_o to_o be_v esteem_v as_o 3.10_o dung_n in_o regard_n of_o christ._n for_o have_v he_o and_o have_v all_o thing_n want_v he_o and_o want_v all_o thing_n he_o be_v in_o at_z and_o after_o death_n advantage_n i_o come_v to_o the_o last_o it_o be_v profitable_a to_o repent_v for_o if_o we_o repentance_n turn_v to_o the_o lord_n he_o will_v turn_v to_o we_o and_o that_o we_o may_v turn_v consider_v his_o 2._o mercy_n in_o forgive_a his_o 30.9_o benefit_n in_o give_v his_o 2.5_o patience_n in_o forbear_v and_o his_o 26.9_o judgement_n in_o punish_v 17.30_o the_o word_n preach_v 4.3_o sin_n commit_v and_o that_o 13.24_o few_o shall_v be_v save_v 12.1_o the_o shortness_n 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to_o none_o better_o than_o to_o many_o of_o you_o especial_o to_o those_o who_o be_v in_o my_o time_n worthy_a member_n of_o that_o most_o worthy_a college_n college_n with_o he_o and_o the_o rather_o i_o do_v it_o that_o time_n to_o come_v may_v rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n that_o from_o one_o honourable_a root_n have_v issue_v so_o many_o profitable_a branch_n to_o the_o church_n you_o be_v six_o brethren_n as_o pillar_n of_o your_o house_n there_o be_v three_o sister_n as_o fruitful_a vine_n of_o the_o same_o one_o be_v not_o but_o be_v with_o the_o lord_n and_o she_o i_o know_v a_o lady_n of_o admirable_a virtue_n wray_n the_o other_o two_o be_v and_o long_o may_v they_o be_v so_o you_o be_v all_o brethren_n by_o nature_n of_o one_o venture_n nation_n of_o one_o country_n grace_n of_o one_o spirit_n affection_n of_o one_o heart_n fortune_n in_o great_a favour_n and_o of_o one_o hope_v by_o your_o holy_a behaviour_n and_o 4.9_o concern_v brotherly_a love_n i_o need_v not_o to_o write_v unto_o you_o for_o you_o be_v teach_v of_o god_n to_o love_v one_o another_o your_o plutarch_n scilurus_fw-la at_o his_o death_n need_v not_o to_o teach_v you_o concord_n by_o give_v to_o each_o of_o you_o a_o sheaf_n of_o arrow_n which_o can_v well_o be_v break_v whilst_o they_o be_v conjoin_v for_o you_o by_o your_o amity_n make_v yourselves_o invincible_a if_o 294._o chilo_n the_o lacedaemonian_a die_v for_o joy_n to_o see_v one_o son_n crown_v at_o olympus_n and_o 〈◊〉_d diagoras_n rhodius_n do_v the_o like_a when_o his_o three_o child_n get_v the_o garland_n at_o a_o wrestle_n and_o 45.28_o jacob_n so_o rejoice_v to_o hear_v of_o his_o son_n joseph_n to_o be_v advance_v great_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o egypt_n how_o may_v that_o happy_a father_n of_o you_o rejoice_v to_o see_v at_o one_o time_n one_o son_n sit_v as_o high_a sheriff_n of_o the_o shire_n another_o preach_n before_o the_o judge_n of_o assize_n and_o the_o three_o plead_v as_o councillor_n at_o the_o bar_n and_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o great_a expectation_n in_o the_o kingdom_n thus_o 10.1_o wise_a son_n be_v a_o joy_n to_o their_o parent_n and_o all_o may_v 133.1_o behold_v how_o good_a and_o comely_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o brethren_n to_o dwell_v together_o in_o unity_n aristotle_n can_v say_v that_o parent_n be_v not_o bless_v unless_o they_o be_v after_o their_o death_n bless_v in_o their_o child_n 〈◊〉_d and_o sure_o it_o be_v no_o small_a part_n of_o a_o father_n blessedness_n to_o see_v his_o child_n like_v to_o flourish_v when_o he_o be_v go_v nay_o of_o all_o monument_n that_o parent_n can_v leave_v behind_o they_o there_o be_v none_o as_o one_o say_v like_o to_o a_o virtuous_a son_n but_o all_o parent_n be_v not_o to_o be_v bless_v 4._o adam_n two_o son_n can_v not_o agree_v in_o one_o field_n 21.9_o abraham_n in_o one_o house_n rarey_a isaak_v in_o one_o womb_n 1._o david_n in_o one_o palace_n nor_o 12.13_o two_o brethren_n in_o the_o division_n of_o a_o inheritance_n 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of_o god_n in_o the_o good_a of_o other_o hereto_o i_o aim_v in_o this_o second_o edition_n of_o this_o book_n for_o my_o call_n to_o this_o work_n when_o my_o accuser_n stand_v forth_o the_o executor_n of_o the_o dead_a shall_v answer_v for_o my_o discharge_n and_o for_o my_o endeavour_n to_o do_v good_a the_o small_a gain_n of_o this_o revised_a work_n be_v true_o return_v to_o the_o right_a owner_n thereof_o if_o thou_o therefore_o return_v glory_n to_o god_n for_o good_a receive_v to_o thy_o soul_n in_o this_o behalf_n i_o have_v my_o desire_n here_o only_o rest_v the_o doubt_n how_o this_o second_o edition_n shall_v not_o be_v prejudicial_a to_o his_o good_a estimation_n that_o publish_v the_o former_a i_o answer_v well_o enough_o for_o i_o hope_v he_o intend_v end_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o the_o credit_n of_o the_o reverend_a author_n of_o this_o work_n now_o if_o any_o addition_n be_v bring_v hereunto_o his_o intent_n be_v further_v and_o wherein_o then_o can_v he_o be_v grieve_v if_o one_o man_n shall_v help_v poor_a orphan_n to_o some_o land_n or_o live_a he_o will_v not_o think_v himself_o wrong_v by_o another_o that_o shall_v enlarge_v their_o just_a claim_n or_o settle_v their_o possession_n in_o a_o better_a tenure_n so_o i_o trust_v it_o fare_v in_o this_o work_n where_o thou_o shall_v find_v upon_o thy_o diligent_a view_n in_o some_o doubtful_a 1._o thing_n the_o author_n meaning_n true_o clear_v his_o method_n rectify_v many_o repetition_n omit_v and_o the_o matter_n special_o towards_o the_o latter_a end_n somewhat_o enlarge_v if_o any_o thing_n be_v dissonant_n to_o the_o author_n judgement_n in_o his_o live-work_n which_o i_o hope_v thou_o shall_v not_o perceive_v rather_o charge_v the_o fault_n on_o i_o through_o ignorance_n or_o misunderstanding_n than_o entertain_v in_o thy_o heart_n the_o least_o conceit_n of_o waver_a levity_n in_o so_o godly_a learned_a and_o judicious_a a_o divine_a who_o have_v so_o well_o deserve_v of_o thy_o love_n if_o thou_o love_v the_o truth_n thus_o crave_v thy_o favourable_a acceptance_n of_o my_o help_a hand_n to_o do_v thou_o good_a i_o end_v with_o he_o that_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n thou_o in_o he_o who_o be_v lord_n of_o all_o t.p._n â§_o a_o general_n analysis_n of_o the_o vision_n show_v to_o john_n the_o three_o first_o chapter_n consist_v of_o a_o preface_n contain_v the_o title_n of_o the_o book_n viz._n apocalypse_n or_o revelation_n describe_v by_o seven_o argument_n vers_fw-la 1_o 2_o 3._o inscription_n of_o the_o vision_n wherein_o be_v johns_n dedication_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n verse_n 4._o salutation_n include_v the_o blessing_n wish_v for_o grace_n verse_n 4._o peace_n verse_n 4._o author_n of_o they_o viz._n 1._o the_o father_n verse_n 4._o 2._o the_o holy_a ghost_n verse_n 4._o 3._o the_o son_n who_o be_v describe_v by_o his_o office_n prophetical_a vers._n 5._o priestly_n vers._n 5._o kingly_a vers._n 5._o the_o execution_n of_o his_o office_n in_o four_o work_n 1._o love_v us._n vers._n 5._o 2._o wash_v away_o our_o sin_n vers._n 5._o 3._o make_v we_o king_n &_o priest_n vers._n 6._o 4._o come_v to_o â—â—dgement_n vers._n 7._o do_v confirm_v the_o former_a description_n vers._n 8._o a_o vision_n contain_v circumstance_n four_o person_n to_o who_o john_n vers._n 9_o place_v where_o isle_n pathmâ—â—_n vers._n 9_o manner_n how_o in_o a_o trance_n vers._n 10._o time_n when_o on_o the_o lord_n day_n vers._n 10._o part_v the_o entrance_n into_o it_o contain_v the_o mean_n of_o johns_n preparation_n viz._n a_o voice_n set_v out_o by_o the_o place_n whence_o it_o come_v vers._n 10._o the_o greatness_n of_o it_o vers._n 10._o the_o matter_n of_o it_o vers._n 11._o part_n of_o his_o preparation_n hear_v note_v in_o the_o mean_n vers._n 10._o turn_v himself_o vers._n 12._o matter_n viz._n a_o representation_n of_o christ_n in_o majesty_n set_v out_o by_o the_o place_n where_o john_n see_v he_o vers._n 13._o his_o form_n or_o figure_n in_o his_o attire_n vers._n 13._o the_o part_n of_o his_o body_n vers._n 14.15_o the_o property_n thereof_o vers._n 16._o his_o action_n 1._o a_o confirmation_n of_o john_n be_v sore_o afraid_a vers._n 17_o 18._o 2._o a_o commandment_n to_o write_v vers._n 19_o 3._o the_o interpretation_n of_o the_o vision_n vers._n 20._o 4._o seven_o several_a commandment_n to_o write_v seven_o epistle_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n chap._n 2._o &_o 3_o a_o godly_a and_o learned_a exposition_n of_o the_o three_o first_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n revel_v 1.1_o the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o 〈…〉_z his_o servant_n thing_n which_o must_v short_o be_v do_v which_o he_o send_v and_o show_v by_o his_o angel_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n before_o we_o come_v to_o the_o word_n where_o in_o be_v contain_v singular_a mater_fw-la fit_a for_o the_o time_n &_o age_n this_o question_n must_v be_v handle_v whether_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v canonical_a scripture_n for_o some_o have_v heretofore_o as_o also_o in_o our_o time_n call_v the_o authority_n of_o it_o in_o question_n but_o we_o be_v without_o all_o doubt_n to_o resolve_v ourselves_o that_o it_o be_v canonical_a scripture_n of_o equal_a authority_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o god_n book_n our_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o the_o doctrine_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n be_v apostolical_a as_o any_o shall_v perceive_v which_o serious_o read_v the_o same_o second_o the_o stile_n of_o this_o book_n be_v apostolical_a that_o be_v plain_a simple_a and_o easy_a if_o we_o consider_v that_o the_o matter_n thereof_o be_v prophetical_a three_o this_o book_n have_v be_v approve_v and_o receive_v for_o canonical_a by_o the_o common_a consent_n of_o god_n church_n in_o all_o age_n since_o the_o day_n of_o john_n and_o be_v never_o refuse_v of_o any_o whole_a church_n but_o only_o of_o some_o private_a man_n four_o the_o thing_n foretell_v in_o this_o book_n come_v to_o pass_v as_o they_o be_v foretell_v as_o among_o the_o rest_n in_o one_o for_o all_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o pprophecy_n of_o the_o two_o beast_n whereof_o one_o come_v out_o of_o the_o sea_n the_o other_o out_o of_o the_o earth_n chap._n 13._o the_o one_o prefigure_v the_o roman_a empire_n the_o other_o the_o heretical_a apostatical_a church_n of_o rome_n both_o which_o in_o all_o thing_n be_v come_v to_o pass_v in_o these_o latter_a age_n answerable_a to_o the_o prophecy_n the_o contrary_a reason_n bring_v to_o improve_v the_o authority_n of_o this_o book_n be_v of_o no_o moment_n 1._o reason_n john_n name_v himself_o sundry_a time_n in_o this_o book_n whereas_o in_o pen_v the_o gospel_n he_o do_v not_o once_o mention_v his_o own_o name_n though_o he_o have_v just_a occasion_n so_o to_o do_v therefore_o it_o be_v not_o pen_v by_o john_n but_o by_o some_o other_o and_o publish_v afterward_o in_o johns_n name_n answ._n the_o reason_n be_v not_o good_a for_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o a_o history_n and_o a_o prophecy_n the_o gospel_n of_o john_n be_v a_o history_n of_o christ_n now_o there_o be_v no_o necessary_a reason_n why_o one_o man_n pen_v the_o history_n of_o another_o shall_v name_v himself_o but_o this_o book_n of_o the_o revelation_n be_v a_o prophecy_n in_o pen_v whereof_o it_o be_v more_o requisite_a the_o prophet_n shall_v put_v to_o his_o own_o name_n so_o do_v the_o former_a prophet_n jeremy_n mention_v his_o name_n in_o his_o book_n at_o least_o a_o hundred_o time_n so_o do_v isaiah_n and_o daniel_n almost_o in_o every_o chapter_n then_o see_v they_o do_v it_o so_o often_o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n if_o s._n john_n repeat_v his_o name_n five_o sundry_a time_n in_o this_o whole_a book_n 2._o they_o object_n that_o his_o stile_n in_o this_o book_n be_v not_o the_o same_o with_o that_o he_o use_v in_o the_o pen_n of_o the_o gospel_n ans._n the_o difference_n of_o the_o stile_n arise_v from_o the_o difference_n of_o the_o matter_n see_v there_o he_o write_v a_o history_n here_o he_o pen_v a_o prophecy_n again_o he_o write_v not_o his_o own_o word_n but_o those_o which_o he_o receive_v from_o christ_n by_o particular_a revelation_n 3._o they_o say_v this_o book_n have_v be_v reject_v in_o diverse_a age_n as_o not_o canonical_a ans._n it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o it_o be_v ever_o refuse_v of_o any_o whole_a church_n but_o of_o some_o particular_a man_n now_o the_o disallow_n of_o any_o private_a man_n can_v make_v a_o whole_a book_n to_o be_v reject_v for_o then_o the_o epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n of_o james_n and_o of_o john_n shall_v not_o be_v canonical_a which_o yet_o be_v receive_v of_o all_o
you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n here_o begin_v johns_n salutation_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n salutation_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n civil_a and_o religious_a civil_a be_v that_o which_o man_n use_v ordinary_o one_o to_o another_o wish_v health_n welfare_n and_o such_o like_a religious_a be_v that_o which_o be_v peculiar_a and_o proper_a unto_o the_o church_n comprehend_v in_o it_o a_o benediction_n also_o and_o such_o be_v this_o here_o use_v by_o s._n john_n it_o may_v also_o be_v call_v apostolical_a because_o it_o be_v so_o usual_a with_o they_o in_o their_o epistle_n and_o they_o use_v it_o the_o rather_o because_o it_o be_v so_o correspondent_a to_o their_o ministry_n which_o stand_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o preach_v which_o be_v the_o ministry_n of_o grace_n and_o reconciliation_n the_o thing_n here_o desire_v second_o in_o prayer_n whereto_o belong_v the_o duty_n of_o benediction_n to_o pronounce_v a_o blessing_n upon_o the_o people_n as_o do_v the_o priest_n in_o their_o ministration_n under_o the_o law_n num._n 6.23_o and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n with_o his_o apostle_n when_o they_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o as_o every_o minister_n shall_v do_v to_o his_o whole_a congregation_n before_o they_o depart_v and_o this_o be_v also_o include_v in_o this_o salutation_n for_o hereby_o they_o bless_v those_o church_n to_o who_o they_o do_v write_v but_o to_o come_v to_o the_o word_n which_o be_v most_o excellent_a and_o contain_v in_o they_o the_o sum_n of_o the_o gospel_n grace_n in_o scripture_n signify_v two_o thing_n first_o god_n favour_n second_o some_o gift_n of_o god_n free_o bestow_v now_o here_o by_o grace_n be_v mean_v not_o any_o particular_a gift_n of_o god_n but_o the_o gracious_a favour_n and_o good_a will_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o some_o in_o christ_n for_o his_o own_o for_o it_o be_v here_o oppose_v to_o peace_n a_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o therefore_o can_v signify_v the_o same_o thing_n now_o mark_v s._n john_n in_o thiâ—_n salutation_n begin_v with_o grace_n because_o it_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o happiness_n and_o of_o all_o god_n blessing_n whatsoever_o we_o be_v and_o all_o that_o we_o have_v be_v of_o grace_n our_o election_n redemption_n vocation_n justification_n and_o sanctification_n our_o faith_n and_o repentance_n &_o our_o perseverance_n in_o they_o both_o proceed_v from_o this_o fountain_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n it_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o the_o end_n of_o all_o yea_o it_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o salvation_n first_o we_o must_v have_v this_o and_o then_o we_o may_v look_v for_o all_o other_o blessing_n and_o peace_n peace_n be_v take_v sundry_a way_n in_o the_o scripture_n first_o for_o welfare_n &_o good_a success_n in_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n by_o god_n blessing_n exod._n 18.7_o moses_n and_o jethroe_n salute_v ask_v each_o other_o of_o their_o peace_n that_o be_v of_o his_o welfare_n and_o so_o it_o be_v partly_o take_v in_o this_o place_n second_o for_o that_o unity_n and_o bless_a concord_n which_o be_v in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n among_o god_n child_n and_o so_o it_o be_v especial_o take_v here_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n it_o have_v six_o part_n every_o one_o whereof_o be_v a_o most_o worthy_a blessing_n the_o first_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n which_o be_v when_o we_o stand_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n reconcile_v to_o he_o in_o christ_n jesus_n rom._n 5.1_o second_o peace_n with_o god_n angel_n for_o they_o guard_v such_o as_o be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o carry_v they_o as_o a_o nurse_n do_v her_o child_n in_o her_o arm_n that_o they_o hurt_v not_o their_o foot_n at_o any_o stone_n psal._n 91.11_o and_o they_o rejoice_v at_o our_o good_a estate_n the_o three_o be_v peace_n with_o a_o man_n self_n when_o his_o conscience_n will_v not_o accuse_v he_o but_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o be_v wash_v in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n this_o be_v that_o peace_n of_o god_n which_o pass_v all_o understanding_n philip._n 4.7_o the_o four_o be_v peace_n with_o god_n church_n notable_o prefigure_v by_o the_o peaceable_a habitation_n of_o wild_a beast_n and_o tame_v together_o as_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o calf_n the_o wolf_n and_o the_o lamb_n the_o child_n and_o the_o cockatrice_n etc._n etc._n isaiah_n 11_o 6._o and_o plain_o to_o be_v see_v among_o the_o believer_n acts._n 4.32_o who_o be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n and_o heart_n the_o five_o be_v peace_n with_o the_o enemy_n of_o god_n church_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n so_o joseph_n have_v peace_n in_o pharaoh_n court_n so_o daniel_n have_v peace_n in_o the_o court_n of_o nabuchadnezzar_n for_o when_o the_o three_o child_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o oven_n we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o he_o do_v revolt_v unto_o idolatry_n or_o hide_v himself_o but_o be_v in_o favour_n in_o the_o court_n obtain_v privilege_n to_o be_v excuse_v the_o six_o be_v peace_n with_o all_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n with_o the_o beast_n of_o the_o field_n fowl_n of_o the_o air_n and_o fish_n of_o the_o sea_n this_o the_o lord_n promise_v in_o the_o covenant_n that_o he_o will_v make_v for_o they_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n hosea_n 2._o vers_fw-la 18._o yea_o the_o child_n of_o god_n shall_v tread_v upon_o the_o lion_n and_o the_o serpent_n and_o they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v he_o psalm_n 91._o vers._n 13._o and_o this_o his_o peace_n stand_v herein_o that_o by_o god_n bless_a providence_n he_o shall_v find_v help_n and_o comfort_n from_o all_o god_n creature_n in_o this_o place_n whether_o we_o take_v peace_n for_o outward_a welfare_n or_o for_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n yet_o it_o be_v place_v after_o grace_n because_o it_o follow_v as_o a_o fruit_n thereof_o first_o a_o man_n must_v be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o then_o come_v all_o the_o blessing_n of_o peace_n unto_o he_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n grace_n be_v with_o you_o and_o peace_n that_o be_v i_o wish_v you_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n with_o peace_n the_o bless_a fruit_n thereof_o even_o all_o outward_a welfare_n and_o especial_o the_o concord_n of_o god_n church_n have_v peace_n with_o god_n with_o his_o holy_a angel_n with_o his_o church_n with_o your_o own_o heart_n with_o your_o enemy_n as_o far_o as_o may_v be_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o with_o all_o his_o creature_n use_n whereas_o s._n john_n wish_v grace_n unto_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v seek_v for_o above_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o apostle_n practice_n must_v be_v our_o precept_n so_o do_v david_n many_o say_v who_o will_v show_v we_o any_o good_a but_o lord_n lift_v thou_o up_o the_o light_n of_o thy_o countenance_n upon_o i_o psal._n 4.6_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v let_v the_o most_o of_o the_o world_n seek_v what_o they_o will_v as_o riches_n pleasure_n etc._n etc._n yet_o my_o desire_n be_v of_o thy_o love_n and_o favour_n above_o all_o and_o oftentimes_o he_o call_v god_n his_o portion_n his_o rock_n and_o castle_n of_o defence_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v long_v for_o to_o show_v that_o all_o his_o joy_n be_v in_o god_n favour_n and_o so_o it_o shall_v be_v with_o we_o but_o we_o little_o practice_v this_o because_o we_o bring_v from_o our_o cradle_n natural_a presumption_n which_o persuade_v we_o that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n and_o love_n of_o god_n but_o we_o must_v cast_v off_o this_o false_a persuasion_n and_o take_v a_o new_a course_n and_o labour_v first_o to_o see_v that_o we_o be_v out_o of_o god_n favour_n lose_v sheep_n prodigal_a child_n in_o ourselves_o yea_o the_o very_a firebrand_n of_o hell_n and_o this_o to_o see_v our_o own_o want_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o first_o step_n to_o grace_n second_o feel_v this_o want_n and_o misery_n in_o ourselves_o we_o must_v earnest_o desire_v and_o in_o our_o soul_n hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n above_o all_o earthly_a thing_n three_o we_o must_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o true_a faith_n lie_v hold_v upon_o the_o grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n propound_v in_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o apply_v they_o to_o ourselves_o particular_o second_o after_o grace_n he_o wish_v unto_o they_o peace_n where_o note_n the_o true_a order_n of_o seek_v for_o the_o blessing_n of_o this_o life_n we_o must_v not_o begin_v with_o welfare_n and_o prosperity_n but_o our_o first_o and_o chief_a care_n must_v be_v to_o obtain_v the_o grace_n and_o favour_n
yet_o he_o be_v seven_o that_o be_v manifold_a in_o regard_n of_o gift_n and_o operation_n which_o proceed_v from_o he_o second_o saint_n john_n here_o speak_v of_o the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n as_o he_o see_v they_o in_o vision_n for_o here_o he_o set_v down_o one_o vision_n which_o he_o see_v now_o he_o behold_v the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o form_n of_o seven_o light_n in_o a_o vision_n revel_v 4.5_o which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n this_o he_o speak_v by_o comparison_n take_v from_o earthly_a king_n which_o sit_v in_o their_o throne_n do_v there_o show_v their_o glory_n and_o majesty_n so_o s._n john_n see_v in_o vision_n god_n the_o father_n sit_v in_o his_o throne_n and_o christ_n at_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o before_o the_o throne_n the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o manner_n of_o appearance_n prove_v not_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v inferior_a to_o the_o father_n and_o to_o the_o son_n but_o hereby_o be_v express_v the_o office_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o iâ—_n to_o be_v send_v from_o the_o father_n and_o from_o the_o son_n to_o the_o church_n to_o enlighten_v the_o member_n thereof_o this_o they_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n that_o be_v grace_n and_o peace_n be_v with_o you_o from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o spirit_n of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o son_n who_o from_o they_o both_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o enlighten_v to_o sanctify_v and_o to_o govern_v the_o member_n thereof_o first_o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v god_n use_n for_o look_v from_o who_o come_v grace_n and_o peace_n that_o same_o be_v very_a god_n but_o here_o grace_n &_o peace_n proceed_v from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v very_a god_n second_o we_o learn_v that_o we_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o direct_v our_o prayer_n to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o by_o who_o grace_n and_o peace_n be_v give_v to_o he_o we_o may_v direct_v our_o prayer_n but_o grace_n and_o peace_n be_v give_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n therefore_o we_o may_v pray_v to_o he_o for_o they_o this_o be_v the_o rather_o to_o be_v observe_v because_o there_o be_v some_o which_o doubt_n whether_o we_o may_v pray_v to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n bâ—t_o they_o may_v as_o well_o doubt_v whether_o he_o be_v god_n they_o say_v we_o have_v no_o example_n hereof_o in_o scripture_n ans._n it_o be_v not_o true_a for_o in_o this_o benediction_n john_n pray_v to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v grace_n be_v wiâ—h_v you_o and_o peace_n from_o god_n the_o father_n etc._n etc._n for_o in_o substance_n it_o be_v as_o much_o â—s_n if_o he_o have_v say_v thus_o thy_o grace_n and_o peace_n o_o father_n and_o thy_o grace_n and_o peace_n o_o holy_a ghost_n and_o thou_o o_o son_n be_v with_o thy_o church_n three_o in_o this_o description_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n by_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o the_o father_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o person_n subsist_v and_o not_o a_o quality_n some_o heretic_n that_o acknowledge_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o father_n deny_v the_o godhead_n of_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o concern_v the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v hold_v that_o he_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o virtue_n and_o quality_n of_o the_o father_n but_o this_o be_v most_o false_a for_o aâ—_n the_o father_n be_v a_o substance_n fit_v upon_o the_o throne_n so_o here_o we_o see_v the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o substance_n stand_v before_o the_o throne_n four_o here_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v a_o distinct_a person_n from_o the_o father_n and_o from_o the_o son_n for_o he_o sit_v not_o in_o the_o throne_n as_o do_v the_o father_n nor_o sit_v at_o the_o father_n right_a hand_n as_o do_v the_o son_n but_o stand_v before_o the_o throne_n apart_o from_o they_o both_o verse_n 5._o and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n and_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a and_o lord_n over_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n unto_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o son_n in_o his_o own_o blood_n that_o be_v grace_n and_o peace_n from_o jesus_n christ._n where_o christ_n jesus_n be_v join_v with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o bestow_v grace_n and_o peace_n on_o his_o church_n here_o some_o may_v ask_v why_o be_v christ_n the_o second_o person_n of_o the_o trinity_n place_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o three_o personâ—_n answer_n for_o 〈◊〉_d cause_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o office_n for_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v two_o way_n first_o as_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n second_o as_o he_o be_v the_o mediator_n of_o the_o church_n as_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n he_o be_v the_o second_o person_n in_o trinity_n and_o so_o before_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o order_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n so_o he_o be_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n isaiah_n 61.1_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o i_o he_o have_v send_v i_o to_o preach_v where_o christ_n confess_v himself_o to_o be_v senâ—_n by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n and_o in_o that_o respect_n he_o be_v set_v after_o he_o second_o he_o be_v place_v after_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o the_o fit_a progress_n of_o the_o history_n for_o the_o manner_n of_o they_o which_o pen_n the_o scripture_n be_v to_o set_v they_o in_o the_o last_o place_n of_o who_o they_o mean_v to_o speak_v most_o as_o matth._n 1._o the_o evangelist_n set_v down_o the_o genealogy_n of_o christ_n from_o abraham_n though_o among_o they_o all_o be_v none_o so_o excellent_a as_o christ_n yet_o place_v he_o the_o last_o because_o he_o intend_v to_o go_v on_o with_o the_o history_n of_o his_o life_n and_o death_n so_o john_n place_v christ_n the_o last_o because_o he_o purpose_v to_o make_v a_o large_a description_n of_o the_o person_n and_o office_n of_o christ_n which_o he_o can_v not_o so_o fit_o have_v bring_v in_o if_o he_o have_v place_v he_o before_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o this_o five_o verse_n till_o the_o nine_o he_o describe_v christ_n at_o large_a first_o by_o his_o office_n second_o by_o the_o execution_n thereof_o his_o office_n be_v three_o first_o his_o prophetical_a office_n in_o these_o word_n which_o be_v that_o faithful_a witness_n second_o his_o priestly_a office_n the_o first_o beget_v of_o the_o dead_a three_o his_o kingly_a office_n and_o that_o prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o execution_n of_o all_o his_o office_n be_v particular_o set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v to_o he_o that_o love_v we_o and_o wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n and_o so_o forth_o to_o the_o nine_o verse_n touch_v his_o office_n in_o his_o prophetical_a office_n we_o may_v note_v three_o thing_n first_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n second_o a_o faithful_a witness_n three_o that_o faithful_a witness_n first_o he_o be_v a_o witness_n isay._n 55.4_o i_o give_v he_o to_o be_v a_o witness_n to_o the_o nation_n by_o his_o witness_n â—earing_v be_v signify_v two_o duty_n of_o his_o prophetical_a office_n first_o to_o reveal_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n to_o his_o church_n second_o to_o certify_v the_o church_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o same_o &_o in_o these_o two_o stand_v his_o whole_a office_n prophetical_a for_o the_o first_o to_o reveal_v his_o father_n will_n to_o the_o church_n immediate_o be_v his_o office_n as_o he_o be_v a_o prophet_n for_o none_o have_v see_v god_n but_o he_o which_o come_v from_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o father_n and_o he_o have_v declare_v he_o john_n 1.18_o now_o christ_n declare_v the_o father_n by_o make_v know_v his_o will_n and_o that_o he_o have_v do_v not_o only_o in_o his_o own_o person_n while_o he_o live_v on_o earth_n but_o from_o the_o begin_n by_o all_o the_o prophet_n and_o so_o will_v do_v to_o the_o end_n by_o all_o true_a preacher_n for_o in_o the_o church_n the_o father_n do_v all_o thing_n by_o the_o son_n when_o the_o lord_n rain_v fire_n on_o sodom_n gen._n 19.24_o there_o jehovah_n the_o father_n rain_v down_o by_o jehovah_n the_o son_n so_o when_o the_o covenant_n be_v make_v to_o our_o first_o parent_n it_o be_v make_v in_o christ_n the_o promise_a seed_n it_o be_v renew_a to_o noah_n abraham_n and_o the_o patriarch_n from_o the_o father_n by_o the_o son_n for_o that_o jehovah_n which_o appear_v to_o moses_n in_o the_o bush_n exod._n 3._o be_v by_o s._n paul_n call_v christ._n 1._o cor._n 10._o the_o prophet_n and_o the_o apostle_n write_v as_o they_o be_v inspire_v by_o christ_n they_o be_v but_o his_o instrument_n to_o speak_v and_o
show_v mercy_n exercise_n judgement_n keep_v court_n assize_n begin_v end_n and_o continue_v war_n according_a to_o his_o commandment_n and_o so_o in_o every_o thing_n the_o direction_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v their_o guide_n as_o it_o be_v to_o david_n thy_o law_n o_o lord_n have_v be_v my_o counselor_n psal._n 119.24_o four_o if_o christ_n be_v sovereign_a king_n than_o all_o earthly_a prince_n be_v bind_v to_o plant_v and_o establish_v in_o their_o kingdom_n the_o religion_n of_o christ_n else_o how_o can_v they_o show_v themselves_o his_o loyal_a subject_n many_o imagine_v that_o earthly_a prince_n may_v admit_v unto_o their_o subject_n any_o religion_n for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n but_o this_o be_v against_o the_o equity_n of_o god_n word_n in_o this_o place_n for_o wherein_o can_v earthly_a prince_n do_v homage_n unto_o christ_n if_o they_o maintain_v not_o his_o religion_n and_o their_o duty_n in_o this_o behalf_n be_v signify_v plain_o in_o the_o parable_n of_o the_o marriage_n for_o when_o they_o that_o be_v bid_v do_v not_o come_v the_o king_n send_v forth_o his_o 2d_o servant_n which_o may_v be_v understand_v of_o christian_a magistrate_n to_o compel_v man_n to_o come_v to_o the_o marriage_n for_o that_o be_v the_o magistrate_n duty_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o true_a religion_n five_o see_v christ_n alone_o be_v prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n hence_o we_o learn_v that_o king_n on_o earth_n in_o their_o dominion_n be_v sovereign_a governor_n over_o all_o person_n and_o in_o all_o cause_n next_o under_o christ_n he_o be_v king_n of_o king_n absolute_o and_o they_o be_v under_o he_o alone_o and_o have_v no_o other_o head_n but_o he_o whereby_o we_o see_v the_o presumption_n and_o arrogancy_n of_o the_o pope_n and_o sea_n of_o rome_n in_o claim_v supremacy_n above_o all_o king_n and_o prince_n in_o the_o whole_a church_n upon_o earth_n this_o be_v a_o device_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o high_a treason_n against_o christ_n for_o hereby_o he_o be_v rob_v of_o this_o royal_a prerogative_n to_o be_v the_o only_a prince_n of_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n last_o see_v christ_n be_v king_n of_o all_o king_n we_o must_v not_o be_v discourage_v when_o we_o be_v call_v to_o suffer_v any_o affliction_n for_o his_o truth_n let_v the_o tyrant_n of_o the_o earth_n rage_n and_o bend_v their_o force_n to_o hurt_v we_o yet_o we_o have_v a_o king_n above_o they_o all_o for_o who_o we_o suffer_v he_o be_v their_o king_n he_o can_v stay_v and_o bridle_v they_o and_o if_o he_o please_v confound_v and_o bruise_v they_o in_o piece_n they_o can_v do_v any_o thing_n but_o that_o which_o he_o permit_v for_o he_o rule_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o his_o enemy_n psal._n 110.2_o he_o can_v break_v they_o in_o piece_n like_o a_o potter_n vessel_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o office_n of_o christ._n the_o second_o part_n of_o christ_n description_n be_v by_o the_o execution_n of_o his_o office_n which_o consist_v in_o four_o work_n the_o first_o contain_v in_o these_o word_n unto_o he_o which_o love_v we_o the_o second_o in_o these_o which_o wash_v we_o in_o his_o blood_n the_o other_o two_o in_o the_o two_o verse_n which_o follow_v viz._n 6_o and_o 7._o for_o the_o first_o which_o love_v we_o that_o be_v john_n and_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n &_o by_o proportion_n all_o other_o church_n be_v part_n of_o the_o true_a church_n the_o love_n of_o christ_n have_v three_o degree_n the_o first_o be_v a_o general_a love_n whereby_o he_o love_v all_o his_o creature_n approve_v the_o same_o to_o be_v good_a as_o they_o be_v his_o by_o creation_n the_o second_o be_v the_o love_n of_o mankind_n in_o that_o he_o be_v content_a to_o become_v a_o redeemer_n for_o mankind_n after_o their_o fall_n and_o not_o â—or_a any_o other_o creature_n no_o not_o for_o the_o angel_n which_o fall_v as_o well_o as_o man_n who_o therefore_o remain_v without_o all_o hope_n of_o salvation_n the_o three_o and_o principal_a be_v that_o whereby_o he_o love_v his_o elect_a and_o choose_a child_n which_o be_v that_o special_a savour_n whereby_o he_o accept_v of_o they_o to_o life_n everlasting_a this_o three_o degree_n have_v two_o part_n first_o it_o be_v take_v for_o his_o purpose_n to_o love_v as_o when_o he_o say_v i_o have_v love_v jacob_n and_o hate_v esau_n rom._n 9.13_o second_o for_o the_o act_n of_o love_a which_o be_v the_o declaration_n of_o his_o purpose_n by_o spiritual_a benefit_n 1._o john_n 3.1_o behold_v what_o singular_a love_n god_n have_v show_v unto_o we_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n note_v the_o declaration_n of_o his_o love_n in_o the_o gift_n of_o adoption_n so_o in_o this_o verse_n by_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o church_n be_v mean_v the_o actual_a declaration_n of_o his_o special_a favour_n in_o accept_v they_o for_o his_o child_n and_o bestow_v many_o singular_a blessing_n upon_o they_o whereas_o s._n john_n place_v this_o in_o the_o first_o place_n of_o all_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n that_o he_o love_v we_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o that_o this_o special_a love_n be_v the_o very_a ground_n of_o man_n redemption_n which_o exclude_v all_o foresee_v faith_n and_o work_v from_o be_v motive_n of_o man_n election_n in_o god_n eternal_a council_n and_o so_o proportional_o all_o foresee_v sin_n from_o be_v motive_n in_o god_n of_o man_n reprobation_n it_o may_v be_v object_v the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o also_o of_o man_n respect_v a_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v good_a first_o the_o thing_n must_v be_v good_a and_o then_o it_o be_v love_v and_o so_o in_o man_n redemption_n god_n first_o foresee_v their_o goodness_n and_o therefore_o choose_v they_o ans._n there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o the_o love_n of_o the_o creature_n and_o of_o the_o creator_n the_o love_n of_o the_o creature_n follow_v the_o goodness_n of_o a_o thing_n because_o he_o see_v it_o be_v good_a therefore_o he_o love_v it_o but_o god_n the_o creator_n first_o love_v the_o creature_n before_o it_o be_v good_a and_o hence_o it_o come_v that_o it_o be_v good_a because_o he_o love_v it_o second_o whereas_o saint_n john_n and_o all_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n as_o other_o true_a church_n do_v believe_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o christ_n love_v they_o for_o that_o saint_n john_n take_v for_o grant_v this_o shall_v move_v all_o man_n to_o have_v this_o care_n to_o labour_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v root_v and_o ground_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n see_v he_o place_v that_o in_o the_o first_o place_n this_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v the_o ephesian_n root_v and_o ground_v and_o therefore_o pray_v that_o with_o all_o saint_n they_o may_v be_v able_a to_o comprehend_v what_o be_v the_o breadth_n and_o length_n depth_n and_o height_n thereof_o ephes._n 2._o vers_fw-la 17_o 18_o 19_o this_o we_o do_v when_o we_o be_v assure_v in_o heart_n and_o conscience_n by_o the_o work_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o he_o love_v we_o in_o christ._n so_o that_o he_o which_o deny_v unto_o we_o the_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n take_v away_o the_o very_a ground_n of_o our_o salvation_n now_o that_o we_o may_v have_v this_o assurance_n of_o god_n love_n we_o must_v in_o all_o good_a duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n draw_v near_o to_o god_n with_o our_o heart_n keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o then_o will_v god_n draw_v near_o to_o us._n if_o any_o man_n love_v i_o say_v christ_n he_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n and_o then_o my_o father_n will_v love_v he_o and_o we_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o dwell_v with_o he_o john_n 14.23_o mean_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o shall_v shed_v this_o love_n into_o our_o heart_n rom._n 5._o vers_fw-la 5._o cause_v we_o to_o increase_v in_o the_o feel_n thereof_o as_o we_o grow_v in_o faith_n and_o obedience_n towards_o he_o and_o have_v wash_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n in_o his_o blood_n here_o be_v the_o second_o benefit_n and_o action_n of_o christ_n to_o his_o church_n where_o first_o of_o all_o the_o very_a phrase_n have_v wash_v we_o do_v import_v that_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n be_v as_o filthy_a spot_n in_o their_o soul_n and_o that_o himself_o and_o this_o church_n of_o god_n be_v touch_v with_o a_o serious_a consideration_n of_o their_o vileness_n by_o reason_n of_o their_o sin_n for_o wash_v presuppose_v former_a filthiness_n and_o pollution_n thus_o do_v david_n most_o sensible_o feel_v his_o own_o filthiness_n and_o see_v his_o miserable_a estate_n when_o he_o desire_v the_o lord_n to_o â—_o wash_v he_o thorough_o confess_v thereby_o that_o his_o soul_n and_o body_n be_v so_o foul_o stain_v and_o
cast_v off_o all_o dulness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o with_o all_o may_v stir_v up_o ourselves_o to_o attentive_a hear_n so_o shall_v the_o word_n be_v bless_v unto_o we_o otherwise_o our_o hear_n shall_v turn_v to_o our_o deep_a condemnation_n verse_n 11._o say_v i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o send_v it_o unto_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n unto_o ephesus_n and_o unto_o smyrna_n and_o unto_o pergamus_n and_o unto_o thyatira_n and_o unto_o sardai_n and_o unto_o philadelphia_n and_o unto_o laodicea_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o three_o description_n of_o this_o voice_n whereby_o johns_n heart_n be_v prepare_v touch_v the_o substance_n and_o matter_n which_o be_v utter_v which_o consist_v in_o two_o thing_n the_o first_o be_v a_o testimony_n in_o these_o word_n i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o the_o second_o a_o commandment_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v and_o send_v etc._n etc._n i._o touch_v the_o testimony_n the_o substance_n thereof_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o eight_o verse_n where_o the_o word_n be_v handle_v and_o the_o meaning_n show_v they_o do_v serve_v direct_o to_o prove_v the_o godhead_n and_o eternity_n of_o christ_n which_o christ_n himself_o do_v here_o avouch_v to_o give_v unto_o john_n and_o unto_o the_o church_n full_a assurance_n that_o the_o thing_n now_o utter_v and_o deliver_v be_v from_o god_n for_o say_v i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o which_o speak_v unto_o thou_o be_o god_n and_o therefore_o the_o thing_n i_o deliver_v be_v from_o god_n in_o this_o testimony_n note_v god_n special_a care_n in_o regard_n of_o his_o truth_n he_o do_v not_o content_v himself_o with_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o his_o church_n but_o more_o special_o his_o care_n be_v to_o certify_v the_o church_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o that_o it_o be_v indeed_o from_o god_n this_o have_v be_v god_n care_n from_o the_o beginning_n when_o peter_n receive_v a_o vision_n from_o god_n withal_o 19_o god_n spirit_n assure_v he_o that_o the_o thing_n reveal_v therein_o be_v certain_a &_o sure_a and_o so_o when_o christ_n preach_v the_o will_n of_o his_o father_n among_o man_n he_o do_v withal_o work_v strange_a miracle_n to_o confirm_v and_o seal_v up_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n that_o it_o be_v from_o god_n this_o special_a care_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n do_v first_o confute_v the_o papist_n opinion_n touch_v scripture_n use_n they_o hold_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v certain_a in_o itself_o but_o not_o unto_o man_n till_o the_o church_n give_v testimony_n thereunto_o but_o this_o be_v false_a for_o god_n ever_o have_v this_o care_n over_o his_o church_n not_o only_o to_o reveal_v his_o will_n unto_o they_o but_o also_o to_o use_v mean_n for_o the_o assurance_n of_o their_o conscience_n that_o that_o which_o be_v reveal_v be_v his_o undoubted_a and_o perfect_a will_n and_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v certain_a and_o ever_o be_v not_o only_o in_o it_o self_n bâ—t_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n and_o that_o without_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o shall_v be_v through_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v never_o come_v thereunto_o second_o hereby_o be_v confute_v many_o carnal_a man_n who_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o say_v they_o there_o be_v no_o certainty_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n man_n opinion_n therein_o be_v so_o diverse_a that_o so_o many_o man_n so_o many_o mind_n almost_o and_o no_o man_n can_v tell_v who_o speak_v the_o truth_n answ._n it_o may_v be_v that_o man_n in_o sundry_a matter_n hold_v sundry_a private_a opinion_n yet_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n all_o the_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n hold_v the_o same_o opinion_n touch_v the_o foundation_n of_o religion_n but_o let_v it_o be_v grant_v that_o all_o man_n on_o earth_n be_v of_o diverse_a opinion_n touch_v matter_n of_o religion_n shall_v religion_n therefore_o be_v uncertain_a god_n forbid_v for_o religion_n be_v certain_a unto_o man_n by_o the_o mean_n that_o god_n have_v appoint_v to_o certify_v the_o conscience_n of_o the_o truth_n thereof_o and_o thereby_o may_v man_n come_v to_o the_o truth_n and_o certainty_n of_o religion_n teach_v by_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n though_o all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n be_v of_o diverse_a opinion_n touch_v the_o same_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o testimony_n ii_o point_n the_o commandment_n give_v to_o john_n be_v in_o these_o word_n that_o which_o thou_o see_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n this_o commandment_n have_v two_o part_n first_o to_o write_v the_o thing_n see_v in_o a_o book_n second_o to_o send_v the_o book_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n here_o name_v and_o both_o these_o must_v john_n do_v be_v now_o disable_v by_o his_o exile_n to_o preach_v these_o thing_n unto_o they_o personal_o for_o these_o cause_n first_o that_o these_o church_n may_v be_v edify_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o strengthen_v in_o these_o most_o grievous_a time_n of_o persecution_n second_o that_o they_o may_v become_v keeper_n of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o good_a of_o other_o for_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n not_o only_o for_o that_o it_o publish_v god_n truth_n but_o also_o because_o it_o keep_v it_o and_o give_v testimony_n thereunto_o in_o this_o commandment_n note_v sundry_a thing_n first_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n write_v and_o pen_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o man_n be_v a_o notable_a help_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o a_o worthy_a mean_n to_o edify_v the_o same_o else_o christ_n will_v never_o have_v command_v john_n to_o have_v write_v these_o vision_n and_o send_v they_o to_o the_o church_n which_o serve_v to_o confute_v the_o blind_a papist_n which_o say_v the_o word_n write_v be_v but_o a_o inky_a letter_n and_o a_o nose_n of_o wax_n because_o the_o sense_n thereof_o may_v be_v turn_v every_o way_n as_o man_n will_n this_o also_o confute_v the_o anabaptist_n which_o so_o much_o magnify_v their_o revelation_n and_o make_v no_o account_n of_o the_o word_n write_v if_o the_o lord_n have_v think_v it_o best_o he_o will_v have_v teach_v these_o church_n by_o revelation_n but_o they_o must_v learn_v by_o the_o word_n write_v second_o that_o the_o read_n of_o god_n word_n either_o public_o or_o private_o be_v a_o ordinance_n of_o god_n for_o the_o lord_n command_v john_n to_o write_v this_o book_n and_o send_v it_o to_o the_o church_n hereby_o imply_v that_o they_o must_v read_v the_o same_o as_o they_o do_v other_o book_n of_o scripture_n the_o preach_v of_o the_o word_n be_v indeed_o the_o most_o worthy_a instrument_n for_o the_o sound_n and_o confirm_v of_o god_n church_n whereby_o ordinary_o justify_v faith_n be_v wrought_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o yet_o read_v must_v have_v his_o due_a reverence_n as_o a_o mean_n to_o confirm_v and_o increase_v true_a knowledge_n faith_n and_o repentance_n where_o it_o be_v begin_v three_o here_o note_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v under_o the_o cross_n and_o in_o persecution_n and_o yet_o remain_v in_o the_o special_a favour_n of_o god_n for_o this_o banishment_n into_o such_o a_o desert_a place_n be_v unto_o john_n a_o grievous_a cross_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v there_o to_o reveal_v himself_o unto_o he_o and_o to_o make_v he_o the_o penman_n of_o this_o book_n which_o honour_n he_o vouchsafe_v not_o to_o all_o but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v most_o dear_a unto_o he_o which_o thing_n each_o one_o shall_v careful_o observe_v for_o our_o nature_n be_v so_o corrupt_a that_o when_o we_o be_v under_o the_o cross_n it_o will_v persuade_v we_o we_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o love_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n the_o seven_o church_n ephesus_n smyrna_n and_o the_o rest_n be_v name_v which_o seven_o place_n be_v seven_o famous_a city_n in_o asia_n wherein_o be_v plant_v the_o most_o famous_a church_n that_o be_v in_o those_o part_n and_o for_o their_o excellency_n be_v they_o name_v and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o mean_n of_o johns_n preparation_n now_o follow_v the_o part_n thereof_o which_o be_v two_o first_o be_v hear_v fold_v up_o with_o the_o former_a mean_n and_o i_o hear_v a_o voice_n second_o be_v turn_v of_o himself_o to_o see_v the_o party_n that_o speak_v unto_o he_o in_o these_o word_n verse_n 12._o then_o i_o turn_v back_o to_o see_v the_o voice_n which_o speak_v with_o i_o and_o when_o i_o be_v turn_v i_o see_v seven_o
jew_n though_o their_o teacher_n and_o ruler_n be_v both_o heretic_n and_o hypocrite_n and_o yet_o we_o must_v remember_v that_o live_v among_o they_o and_o behold_v their_o wicked_a conversation_n we_o must_v not_o approve_v of_o their_o ungodliness_n but_o be_v grieve_v for_o the_o same_o as_o righteous_a lot_n be_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o sodom_n 2._o pet._n 2.7_o further_n if_o it_o fall_v out_o by_o the_o negligence_n of_o the_o governor_n that_o evil_a man_n be_v admit_v to_o the_o sacrament_n we_o must_v not_o for_o their_o company_n refuse_v to_o communicate_v for_o our_o saviour_n christ_n live_v among_o the_o jew_n communicate_v with_o they_o in_o their_o sacrament_n and_o service_n of_o the_o temple_n though_o many_o of_o they_o be_v notorious_a both_o for_o wicked_a life_n and_o false_a doctrine_n the_o reason_n be_v for_o that_o another_o man_n evil_a conscience_n do_v not_o defile_v our_o good_a conscience_n but_o we_o may_v keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o that_o action_n wherein_o the_o wicked_a be_v defile_v now_o though_o we_o may_v thus_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n yet_o these_o two_o caveat_n must_v be_v observe_v i._o to_o have_v no_o private_a company_n with_o know_v and_o open_a evil_a person_n this_o paul_n express_o forbid_v say_v i_o have_v write_v unto_o you_o 1â—_n that_o you_o company_n not_o together_o that_o be_v in_o private_a and_o familiar_a manner_n ii_o we_o must_v not_o show_v special_a familiaritâ—â—_n to_o evil_a person_n god_n will_v not_o take_v the_o wicked_a by_o the_o hand_n job._n 8.20_o and_o we_o shall_v be_v follower_n of_o god_n therefore_o s._n john_n say_v if_o any_o man_n come_v unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n 2._o john_n 9_o which_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o special_a familiarity_n for_o thereby_o we_o do_v not_o only_o perform_v outward_a duty_n to_o the_o person_n but_o also_o give_v countenance_n to_o their_o sin_n which_o in_o any_o case_n we_o must_v not_o do_v and_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o to_o converse_v with_o evil_a man_n hereby_o all_o those_o be_v just_o blame_v which_o fit_a themselves_o for_o the_o humour_n and_o disposition_n of_o all_o company_n use_n this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v if_o any_o be_v know_v to_o be_v open_o wicked_a either_o for_o life_n or_o opinion_n we_o must_v not_o keep_v private_a company_n with_o they_o or_o afford_v they_o our_o special_a familiarity_n but_o by_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o they_o case_v we_o of_o such_o burden_n our_o saviour_n christ_n have_v commend_v this_o church_n for_o her_o severity_n against_o the_o wicked_a in_o that_o she_o can_v not_o endure_v they_o do_v prove_v the_o same_o to_o be_v true_a by_o two_o argument_n the_o first_o whereof_o be_v contain_v in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o three_o verse_n the_o second_o in_o the_o six_o verse_n for_o the_o first_o it_o be_v take_v from_o the_o sharp_a and_o round_o deal_n of_o this_o church_n against_o evil_a man_n and_o it_o have_v two_o part_n first_o her_o discovery_n of_o false_a apostle_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n second_o her_o oppose_a herself_o against_o they_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o three_o verse_n thou_o have_v suffer_v and_o have_v patience_n etc._n etc._n in_o their_o discovery_n of_o these_o false_a apostle_n note_v two_o special_a point_n first_o that_o god_n have_v give_v to_o particular_a church_n the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v this_o appear_v by_o sundry_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n 1._o cor._n 2.15_o the_o spiritual_a man_n that_o be_v be_v which_o be_v endue_v with_o god_n holy_a spirit_n discern_v all_o thing_n and_o paul_n 11.29_o assume_v that_o the_o faithful_a corinthian_n do_v discern_v the_o lord_n body_n that_o be_v see_v and_o put_v a_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o bread_n and_o wine_n in_o that_o sacrament_n and_o other_o common_a bread_n &_o wine_n which_o none_o that_o want_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n can_v do_v again_o he_o bid_v they_o 13.5_o prove_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o not_o to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o they_o have_v a_o gift_n of_o discern_v whereby_o they_o do_v know_v their_o own_o estate_n whether_o they_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n or_o under_o grace_n and_o s._n john_n bid_v the_o church_n to_o 4.1_o try_v the_o spirit_n that_o be_v those_o doctrine_n which_o man_n pretend_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v teach_v and_o in_o this_o place_n this_o church_n discover_v of_o false_a apostle_n declare_v plain_o that_o she_o have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v who_o be_v send_v of_o god_n to_o teach_v his_o church_n and_o who_o not_o and_o hence_o the_o godly_a learned_a in_o the_o church_n be_v say_v to_o have_v their_o sense_n exercise_v to_o discern_v both_o good_a and_o evil_a heb._n 5.14_o and_o in_o this_o regard_n the_o church_n of_o god_n differ_v from_o all_o other_o company_n of_o man_n for_o unless_o man_n be_v of_o god_n church_n they_o want_v this_o gift_n of_o discern_v spiritual_a thing_n that_o differ_v as_o true_a apostle_n and_o false_a good_a and_o bad_a truth_n and_o falsehood_n etc._n etc._n hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o which_o be_v not_o use_n for_o the_o church_n can_v discern_v whether_o a_o man_n be_v a_o true_a apostle_n or_o not_o and_o by_o the_o same_o gift_n it_o may_v discern_v the_o state_n of_o any_o particular_a church_n whence_o also_o it_o follow_v that_o we_o may_v easy_o see_v whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a church_n or_o not_o it_o please_v some_o to_o call_v it_o into_o question_n as_o it_o now_o stand_v and_o they_o avouch_v that_o it_o be_v no_o church_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a minister_n no_o true_a preach_n or_o right_a administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n in_o it_o and_o that_o these_o thing_n with_o we_o be_v illusion_n of_o satan_n and_o our_o church_n his_o synagogue_n but_o that_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v thus_o prove_v the_o church_n of_o germany_n france_n scotland_n and_o italy_n that_o have_v receive_v the_o gospel_n be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o they_o have_v the_o gift_n of_o discern_v which_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o which_o be_v not_o now_o they_o give_v the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n unto_o we_o and_o reverence_v our_o church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o god_n to_o who_o testimony_n we_o must_v rather_o cleave_v than_o to_o the_o opinion_n of_o a_o few_o private_a man_n and_o so_o resolve_v ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n second_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v a_o gift_n to_o discern_v scripture_n from_o that_o which_o be_v no_o scripture_n the_o papist_n say_v the_o church_n indeed_o have_v this_o gift_n but_o it_o be_v by_o counsel_n and_o commission_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o be_v a_o mere_a forgery_n for_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o can_v discern_v of_o false_a apostle_n can_v no_o doubt_n by_o the_o same_o gift_n discern_v of_o the_o bookeâ—_n of_o god_n and_o that_o without_o counsel_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o at_o this_o time_n when_o john_n write_v it_o be_v a_o more_o famous_a church_n than_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o therefore_o go_v not_o thither_o for_o counsel_n ii_o point_n in_o what_o thing_n this_o discern_a of_o false_a apostle_n do_v consist_v it_o be_v a_o judicial_a action_n of_o the_o church_n consist_v in_o two_o thing_n here_o note_v first_o in_o examination_n of_o false_a doctrine_n and_o false_a teacher_n second_o in_o condemnation_n afterward_o the_o examination_n of_o they_o be_v set_v down_o in_o these_o word_n and_o have_v examine_v they_o that_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o their_o condemn_a or_o sentence_n give_v in_o the_o word_n follow_v and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n for_o the_o first_o examination_n be_v a_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o his_o church_n and_o be_v here_o use_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o false_a apostle_n que._n how_o may_v any_o church_n try_v a_o false_a teacher_n answ._n this_o be_v a_o point_n of_o large_a discourse_n but_o the_o head_n of_o true_a examination_n be_v these_o first_o that_o church_n or_o that_o man_n that_o will_v right_o examine_v a_o false_a teacher_n must_v prepare_v himself_o thereunto_o after_o this_o manner_n he_o must_v look_v that_o he_o have_v a_o meek_a spirit_n and_o a_o humble_a heart_n for_o god_n
more_o though_o god_n summon_v man_n to_o repent_v by_o his_o daily_a judgement_n yet_o few_o or_o none_o by_o true_a humility_n prepare_v to_o meet_v god_n and_o to_o prevent_v his_o judgement_n security_n spread_v itself_o over_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o our_o people_n and_o this_o be_v our_o case_n and_o state_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o god_n have_v be_v long_o since_o in_o come_v to_o we_o by_o his_o judgement_n and_o aâ—_n this_o day_n he_o be_v still_o come_v because_o we_o still_o decay_v in_o love_n and_o other_o grace_n and_o more_o and_o more_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n so_o that_o if_o we_o thus_o continue_v the_o truth_n be_v he_o will_v come_v short_o unto_o we_o and_o that_o by_o most_o fearful_a judgement_n for_o this_o be_v write_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o be_v a_o direction_n not_o only_o unto_o they_o but_o to_o all_o church_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v in_o the_o like_a or_o worse_a case_n what_o shall_v we_o then_o do_v our_o duty_n be_v teach_v we_o in_o these_o word_n if_o not_o that_o be_v if_o thou_o repent_v not_o we_o must_v prevent_v the_o lord_n come_v in_o judgement_n by_o unfeigned_a repentance_n every_o man_n and_o every_o family_n apart_o must_v repent_v private_o and_o the_o whole_a church_n open_o and_o public_o no_o way_n else_o we_o have_v to_o stay_v the_o lord_n come_v against_o we_o by_o his_o fearful_a judgement_n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v a_o more_o particular_a threaten_n than_o the_o former_a and_o will_v remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n where_o he_o show_v with_o what_o particular_a judgement_n he_o will_v punish_v this_o church_n namely_o by_o remove_v away_o the_o candlestick_n the_o meaning_n whereof_o may_v be_v gather_v out_o of_o the_o former_a chapter_n where_o particular_a church_n be_v call_v candlestick_n therefore_o here_o he_o threaten_v to_o remove_v his_o church_n from_o the_o city_n of_o ephesus_n to_o take_v away_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o gospel_n and_o the_o profession_n thereof_o and_o in_o his_o just_a judgement_n to_o send_v among_o they_o ignorance_n apostasy_n and_o heresy_n in_o steed_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o truth_n this_o particular_a judgement_n must_v be_v refer_v to_o the_o first_o word_n if_o not_o that_o be_v if_o thou_o repent_v not_o this_o will_v i_o do_v i_o will_v make_v thou_o to_o be_v no_o church_n and_o take_v my_o gospel_n from_o thou_o in_o this_o particular_a threaten_n three_o point_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v one_o concern_v the_o minister_n the_o second_o concern_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n the_o three_o concern_v every_o private_a man_n touch_v the_o minister_n note_v this_o if_o he_o shall_v decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o his_o word_n or_o to_o his_o brethren_n or_o if_o he_o lie_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n know_v to_o himself_o it_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o deprive_v he_o either_o of_o his_o call_n or_o of_o god_n gift_n bestow_v on_o he_o for_o this_o threaten_n be_v here_o direct_v especial_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o this_o church_n of_o ephesus_n when_o jeremie_n have_v be_v want_v in_o deliver_v the_o lordâ—_n will_v unto_o the_o people_n partly_o for_o fear_n &_o partly_o through_o impatience_n then_o the_o lord_n become_v a_o prophet_n unto_o he_o say_v if_o thou_o â—â—â—â—_o return_v i_o will_v bring_v thou_o again_o and_o thou_o shall_v stand_v before_o i_o whereby_o he_o will_v give_v he_o to_o understand_v that_o if_o he_o return_v not_o he_o shall_v cease_v to_o be_v a_o prophet_n unto_o he_o the_o same_o thing_n be_v true_a of_o all_o god_n minister_n if_o they_o decay_v in_o love_n fail_v in_o their_o duty_n or_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n they_o must_v speedy_o renew_v themselves_o by_o repentance_n or_o else_o god_n will_v deprive_v they_o either_o of_o their_o call_n or_o of_o the_o gift_n thereof_o true_a repentance_n and_o the_o renew_n thereof_o be_v needful_a unto_o all_o christian_n but_o especial_o to_o god_n minister_n if_o they_o will_v continue_v in_o his_o favour_n and_o stand_v before_o he_o become_v his_o mouth_n unto_o the_o people_n the_o second_o point_n concern_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o a_o church_n to_o wit_n if_o a_o church_n or_o people_n decay_v in_o love_n to_o god_n to_o religion_n and_o to_o their_o brethren_n or_o do_v lie_v in_o any_o common_a sin_n they_o procure_v hereby_o the_o remove_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o they_o and_o the_o abolish_n of_o true_a religion_n 9.7_o the_o prophet_n be_v a_o 〈◊〉_d say_v the_o lord_n and_o the_o man_n of_o the_o spirit_n iâ—_n mad_a this_o be_v a_o great_a and_o fearful_a judgement_n but_o markâ—_n the_o cause_n all_o be_v 〈◊〉_d thy_o iniquity_n that_o be_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n do_v god_n send_v foolish_a minister_n if_o this_o be_v so_o than_o we_o have_v just_a cause_n in_o our_o church_n to_o fear_v the_o remove_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o we_o for_o there_o be_v a_o general_a decay_n of_o love_n in_o many_o and_o in_o the_o most_o no_o love_v at_o all_o many_o scorn_n and_o contemn_v true_a religion_n and_o hate_v the_o professor_n thereof_o in_o regard_v whereof_o we_o may_v wonder_v at_o the_o great_a patience_n of_o god_n that_o yet_o continue_v his_o gospel_n among_o we_o for_o 2.11_o god_n give_v man_n up_o to_o strong_a delusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o love_v not_o his_o truth_n wherefore_o be_v in_o this_o danger_n our_o duty_n be_v to_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o prevent_v this_o judgement_n of_o god_n which_o can_v no_o other_o way_n be_v do_v than_o by_o true_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n by_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o general_a and_o by_o every_o man_n apart_o and_o every_o family_n apart_o for_o when_o god_n shall_v speak_v sudden_o against_o a_o nation_n or_o kingdom_n to_o root_v it_o up_o and_o to_o destroy_v it_o if_o that_o people_n repent_v of_o their_o wickedness_n the_o lord_n will_v repent_v of_o the_o plague_n and_o judgement_n which_o he_o think_v to_o bring_v upon_o they_o jerem._n 18_o vers_fw-la 7_o 8._o the_o three_o point_n concern_v every_o private_a man_n and_o it_o be_v this_o if_o any_o man_n decay_n in_o love_n or_o want_v love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o brethren_n or_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n know_v to_o himself_o this_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o remove_v the_o candlestick_n from_o he_o to_o deprive_v he_o of_o his_o knowledge_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n the_o affection_n of_o love_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v like_o the_o watch_n of_o the_o clock_n if_o the_o watch_n stand_v the_o wheel_n stand_v as_o the_o watch_n go_v fast_o or_o soft_o so_o go_v the_o wheel_n answerable_o and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o man_n if_o his_o love_n to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o gospel_n do_v increase_v then_o do_v his_o knowledge_n and_o other_o grace_n of_o god_n increase_n in_o his_o heart_n but_o if_o his_o love_n decay_n than_o other_o grace_n decay_n and_o if_o love_v be_v go_v then_o farewell_n all_o piety_n and_o true_a religion_n if_o we_o will_v know_v the_o cause_n of_o such_o palpable_a ignorance_n as_o be_v in_o many_o that_o have_v long_o hear_v the_o gospel_n preach_v it_o be_v nothing_o but_o want_n of_o love_n heb._n 3.12_o 13._o the_o holy_a ghost_n show_v by_o what_o degree_n man_n come_v to_o fall_v away_o from_o god_n first_o sin_n deceive_v they_o by_o draw_v they_o to_o commit_v it_o then_o their_o heart_n be_v harden_v by_o custom_n of_o sin_v thence_o follow_v unbelief_n in_o main_a point_n of_o religion_n and_o so_o they_o make_v apostasy_n from_o god_n and_o set_v themselves_o against_o his_o truth_n take_v heed_n therefore_o of_o lie_v in_o any_o sin_n for_o that_o be_v the_o high_a way_n to_o final_a apostasy_n rather_o strive_v to_o increase_v in_o love_n unto_o god_n and_o unto_o his_o word_n and_o so_o shall_v all_o his_o good_a grace_n increase_v in_o thy_o heart_n out_o of_o this_o particular_a threaten_v some_o gather_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n &_o fall_v away_o final_o from_o true_a faith_n and_o repentance_n for_o say_v they_o if_o a_o whole_a church_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n and_o become_v no_o church_n then_o may_v any_o one_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v cut_v off_o and_o become_v no_o member_n but_o a_o whole_a church_n may_v be_v cut_v off_o as_o here_o we_o see_v and_o therefore_o may_v any_o one_o man_n answ._n this_o reason_n be_v not_o good_a there_o be_v great_a difference_n between_o the_o state_n of_o a_o whole_a church_n and_o of_o one_o man_n that_o be_v a_o true_a member_n of_o christ._n for_o a_o particular_a church_n be_v a_o mix_a company_n of_o true_a professor_n and_o dissembler_n like_v
unto_o a_o field_n wherein_o be_v good_a corn_n and_o tare_n and_o like_v unto_o a_o barn_n floor_n wherein_o be_v wheat_n and_o chaff_n mingle_v together_o and_o yet_o all_o be_v repute_v believer_n because_o they_o profess_v the_o gospel_n outward_o now_o by_o reason_n of_o this_o mixture_n it_o may_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n may_v fall_v away_o and_o become_v no_o church_n either_o when_o the_o godly_a be_v take_v away_o and_o hypocrite_n and_o dissembler_n make_v manifest_a or_o else_o when_o true_a believer_n wax_v few_o be_v not_o able_a to_o maintain_v the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o truth_n against_o the_o might_n and_o multitude_n of_o the_o enemy_n which_o may_v daily_o increase_v but_o the_o case_n be_v not_o so_o with_o a_o particular_a member_n of_o christ_n he_o can_v final_o fall_v away_o as_o have_v be_v show_v at_o large_a vers_n 4._o and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o reason_n be_v the_o condition_n of_o both_o the_o former_a threaten_n in_o these_o word_n except_o thâ—â—_n amend_v that_o be_v i_o will_v come_v in_o judgement_n unto_o thou_o and_o take_v my_o gospel_n from_o thou_o unless_o thou_o prevent_v my_o come_n by_o true_a repentance_n here_o note_n that_o all_o the_o threaten_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n be_v conditional_a 〈◊〉_d come_v to_o ninive_n and_o cry_v yet_o forty_o day_n and_o ninive_n shall_v be_v destroy_v he_o say_v no_o more_o but_o yet_o that_o threaten_a must_v be_v understand_v with_o this_o exception_n unless_o they_o repent_v why_o will_n some_o say_v be_v the_o threaten_n in_o god_n word_n propound_v conditional_o answ._n god_n whole_a will_n and_o pleasure_n be_v one_o alone_o in_o itself_o and_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v thus_o distinguish_v to_o be_v partly_o secret_a and_o partly_o reveal_v god_n secret_a will_n be_v touch_v those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v not_o make_v manifest_a unto_o man_n he_o reveal_v will_n be_v touch_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v manifest_v in_o scripture_n or_o do_v fall_v out_o every_o day_n now_o god_n secret_a will_n be_v without_o condition_n for_o as_o every_o thing_n come_v to_o pass_v so_o god_n will_v it_o when_o good_a thing_n come_v to_o pass_v they_o he_o will_v simple_o when_o evil_a thing_n fall_v out_o they_o he_o permit_v to_o be_v do_v and_o to_o make_v god_n secret_a will_n conditional_a be_v to_o bring_v god_n will_v under_o the_o power_n of_o man_n and_o to_o subject_v the_o creator_n unto_o the_o creature_n but_o god_n reveal_v will_n be_v conditional_a because_o it_o contain_v the_o matter_n of_o man_n salvation_n and_o this_o manner_n of_o propound_v it_o be_v a_o most_o effectual_a way_n to_o bring_v the_o same_o to_o pass_v for_o it_o keep_v man_n more_o in_o awful_a obedience_n than_o if_o it_o be_v absolute_a in_o this_o condition_n note_v this_o thing_n that_o christ_n repeat_v it_o twice_o both_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o reason_n if_o not_o and_o in_o the_o end_n except_o thou_o amend_v hereby_o he_o will_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o when_o man_n commit_v sin_n and_o lie_v therein_o or_o when_o they_o decay_v in_o any_o grace_n then_o have_v they_o most_o necessary_a cause_n to_o repent_v if_o they_o will_v escape_v god_n fearful_a judgement_n and_o see_v our_o estate_n be_v like_a to_o the_o state_n of_o this_o church_n or_o else_o worser_o by_o much_o for_o we_o lie_v in_o sin_n and_o thereby_o cause_n god_n to_o come_v to_o we_o in_o judgement_n as_o we_o tender_v our_o own_o good_a both_o in_o this_o life_n and_o after_o death_n let_v we_o turn_v from_o our_o sin_n and_o repent_v every_o man_n apart_o every_o family_n apart_o and_o the_o whole_a church_n public_o for_o repentance_n be_v most_o needful_a else_o will_v not_o the_o lord_n have_v double_v this_o condition_n verse_n 6._o but_o this_o thou_o haâ—â—_n that_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o which_o i_o also_o hate_n these_o word_n be_v a_o second_o reason_n to_o prove_v that_o which_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o second_o verse_n namely_o that_o this_o church_n can_v not_o abide_v they_o that_o be_v evil_a in_o the_o second_o verse_n this_o be_v make_v manifest_a by_o their_o discovery_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n and_o here_o he_o prove_v it_o by_o their_o affection_n of_o hatred_n towards_o the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o these_o nicolaitan_o be_v certain_a heretic_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n that_o hold_v these_o two_o opinion_n first_o that_o adultery_n and_o fornication_n be_v no_o sin_n second_o that_o man_n may_v communicate_v with_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o idolater_n in_o their_o idol_n temple_n and_o according_a to_o their_o opinion_n be_v their_o practice_n these_o heretic_n as_o it_o be_v think_v come_v of_o one_o nicholas_n one_o of_o the_o seven_o deacons_n mention_v act_v 6._o who_o though_o for_o a_o while_o he_o do_v faithful_o discharge_v his_o duty_n outward_o yet_o after_o fall_v away_o and_o become_v the_o head_n of_o this_o heretical_a sect_n but_o this_o thou_o have_v this_o particle_n but_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o former_a verse_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v though_o this_o be_v thy_o fault_n that_o thou_o fail_v in_o thy_o first_o love_n yet_o for_o this_o i_o commend_v thou_o that_o thou_o hate_v the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o this_o practice_n of_o christ_n discover_v the_o common_a sin_n of_o this_o age_n which_o be_v use_n to_o set_v out_o in_o their_o colour_n man_n fault_n and_o infirmity_n to_o their_o great_a disgrace_n and_o yet_o by_o silence_n and_o oblivion_n to_o bury_v all_o their_o virtue_n which_o be_v praise_v worthy_a this_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v so_o we_o must_v follow_v christ_n example_n who_o with_o just_a reproof_n adjoin_v due_a deserve_v praise_n if_o our_o friend_n or_o our_o foe_n have_v a_o fault_n when_o we_o be_v call_v thereunto_o we_o may_v speak_v of_o it_o and_o we_o must_v reprove_v they_o but_o yet_o withal_o we_o must_v commend_v the_o good_a thing_n that_o be_v in_o they_o second_o christ_n here_o teach_v we_o that_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o anymans_n good_a estate_n before_o god_n that_o he_o have_v good_a thing_n in_o he_o for_o that_o a_o man_n may_v have_v and_o yet_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ._n saul_n have_v good_a thing_n in_o he_o at_o the_o first_o entrance_n into_o his_o kingdom_n but_o what_o be_v he_o afterward_o john_n be_v very_o zealous_a for_o god_n glory_n in_o kill_v all_o the_o idolatrous_a priest_n 31._o but_o he_o will_v not_o depart_v from_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la and_o judas_n no_o doubt_n have_v many_o good_a gift_n while_o he_o be_v with_o christ_n but_o his_o end_n be_v most_o fearful_a and_o this_o church_n have_v many_o good_a thing_n in_o she_o yet_o iâ—_n she_o in_o danger_n of_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n and_o so_o many_o among_o we_o have_v excellent_a gift_n some_o for_o knowledge_n some_o for_o 〈◊〉_d and_o conceive_v of_o prayer_n &_o yet_o for_o all_o these_o they_o may_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ._n therefore_o we_o must_v not_o content_v ourselves_o with_o these_o but_o labour_n for_o the_o principal_n which_o be_v true_a hearty_a and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n which_o we_o must_v daily_o renew_v for_o our_o continual_a fall_n and_o this_o will_v keep_v we_o in_o god_n favour_n and_o from_o his_o judgement_n more_o particular_o christ_n here_o commend_v this_o church_n for_o hate_v the_o error_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o our_o duty_n if_o we_o be_v christian_n namely_o to_o take_v knowledge_n of_o the_o sin_n and_o error_n of_o our_o time_n and_o to_o hate_v the_o same_o unfeigned_o yet_o note_n he_o commend_v they_o for_o hate_v their_o work_n not_o their_o person_n give_v we_o direction_n how_o to_o temper_v our_o hatred_n in_o the_o world_n we_o must_v set_v it_o against_o the_o sin_n not_o against_o the_o person_n of_o any_o man_n some_o will_v say_v the_o prophet_n pray_v against_o the_o person_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o david_n profess_v hatred_n of_o the_o man_n psalm_n 139.21_o do_v not_o i_o hate_v they_o that_o hate_v thou_o answ._n david_n be_v a_o extraordinary_a prophet_n and_o no_o doubt_n have_v this_o reveal_v unto_o he_o that_o those_o his_o enemy_n be_v obstinate_a and_o will_v not_o repent_v again_o imprecation_n of_o the_o prophet_n in_o scripture_n must_v be_v understand_v as_o prophecy_n of_o god_n judgement_n to_o come_v upon_o those_o against_o who_o they_o pray_v but_o we_o which_o want_v that_o extraordinary_a spirit_n must_v keep_v ourselves_o to_o our_o ordinary_a rule_n hate_v the_o sin_n and_o love_v the_o person_n further_o observe_v the_o work_n here_o
hate_v namely_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n which_o be_v join_v together_o in_o these_o nicolaitan_o adultery_n be_v the_o punishment_n of_o idolatry_n and_o idolatry_n the_o punishment_n of_o adultery_n spiritual_a adultery_n be_v punish_v with_o bodily_a adultery_n this_o be_v verify_v in_o the_o old_a jew_n when_o they_o fall_v a_o whore_v after_o strange_a god_n god_n give_v they_o up_o to_o unclean_a lust_n and_o it_o be_v palpable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n they_o be_v fall_v to_o idolatry_n do_v abound_v in_o all_o uncleanness_n for_o they_o tolerate_v stew_n for_o fornication_n and_o adultery_n and_o sodomic_a be_v common_a among_o they_o again_o sundry_a man_n may_v here_o be_v well_o admonish_v who_o will_v be_v of_o no_o religion_n because_o there_o be_v many_o sect_n and_o schism_n among_o the_o professor_n thereof_o these_o man_n shall_v consider_v that_o in_o the_o best_a church_n plant_v by_o the_o apostle_n there_o be_v sect_n and_o heresy_n even_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n as_o here_o in_o ephesus_n and_o therefore_o no_o marvel_n if_o there_o be_v sect_n and_o schism_n among_o we_o at_o this_o day_n this_o offence_n shall_v not_o move_v any_o to_o dislike_v the_o gospel_n but_o rather_o cause_v they_o more_o firm_o to_o cleave_v unto_o the_o truth_n which_o i_o also_o do_v hate_n this_o christ_n add_v to_o encourage_v they_o to_o go_v forward_o in_o the_o virtue_n for_o which_o he_o commend_v they_o in_o hate_v evil_a work_n for_o what_o can_v more_o provoke_v they_o to_o zeal_n and_o constancy_n therein_o than_o to_o know_v they_o do_v that_o which_o christ_n himself_o do_v and_o here_o we_o see_v that_o christ_n will_v have_v every_o member_n of_o his_o church_n to_o be_v like_o mind_a and_o like_v affect_v unto_o he_o as_o he_o be_v man_n we_o must_v love_v those_o thing_n which_o christ_n love_v and_o hate_v those_o thing_n which_o christ_n hate_v rejoice_v wherein_o christ_n rejoice_v and_o mourn_v for_o those_o thing_n for_o which_o christ_n mourn_v and_o great_a reason_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o we_o profess_v ourselves_o to_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n for_o out_o of_o his_o blood_n spring_v the_o church_n and_o there_o must_v be_v consent_n and_o conformity_n between_o the_o head_n and_o the_o member_n quest._n if_o christ_n hate_v these_o wicked_a man_n why_o do_v he_o suffer_v they_o to_o live_v and_o not_o cut_v they_o off_o from_o trouble_v his_o church_n answ._n because_o hereby_o he_o will_v manifest_v his_o love_n to_o his_o church_n and_o his_o justice_n upon_o the_o wicked_a for_o he_o can_v bring_v light_a out_o of_o darkness_n and_o good_a not_o only_o out_o of_o good_a but_o out_o of_o evil_a verse_n 7._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcom_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n the_o scope_n whereof_o be_v to_o excite_v this_o church_n to_o the_o more_o careful_a performance_n of_o the_o duty_n before_o prescribe_v this_o conclusion_n have_v two_o part_n a_o commandment_n and_o a_o promise_n the_o commandment_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o verse_n let_v he_o that_o have_v aspare_a he_o arâ—_n what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n in_o this_o commandment_n note_v three_o point_n i._n who_o be_v command_v these_o which_o have_v ear_n ii_o the_o duty_n command_v they_o must_v hear_v iii_o what_o they_o must_v hear_v namely_o what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n i._n point_n the_o party_n command_v be_v thus_o set_v forth_o he_o which_o have_v a_o ear_n who_o these_o be_v christ_n do_v more_o full_o expound_v matth._n 13.9_o when_o he_o say_v let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v hear_v where_o he_o make_v this_o distinction_n of_o hearer_n that_o some_o be_v deaf_a hearer_n some_o hear_v hearer_n the_o deaf_a hearer_n be_v those_o that_o bring_v with_o they_o to_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n their_o outward_a ear_n only_o but_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o affect_v with_o it_o neither_o do_v they_o care_v to_o learn_v to_o believe_v or_o obey_v that_o which_o be_v teach_v they_o the_o hear_v hearer_n be_v all_o such_o as_o beside_o their_o bodily_a ear_n have_v ear_n pierce_v in_o their_o heart_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n whereby_o they_o do_v not_o only_o hear_v the_o word_n outward_o but_o their_o heart_n be_v also_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o make_v pliable_a unto_o it_o so_o as_o they_o believe_v it_o and_o bring_v forth_o obedience_n unto_o it_o this_o hear_a ear_n be_v set_v forth_o by_o david_n when_o he_o say_v 6._o sacrifice_n and_o burn_a offering_n thou_o will_v not_o have_v but_o my_o â—ares_n have_v thou_o open_v and_o prepare_v and_o then_o i_o say_v loâ—_n i_o come_v hereof_o isaiah_n say_v thou_o 50.5_o open_v my_o ear_n and_o i_o be_v noâ—_n rebellious_a and_o this_o hear_a ear_n 〈…〉_z give_v she_o when_o god_n 16.14_o open_v her_o heart_n whereby_o she_o become_v attentive_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n preach_v by_o paul_n by_o this_o distinction_n of_o hearer_n which_o christ_n make_v use_n we_o may_v learn_v that_o god_n grace_n unto_o salvation_n be_v not_o universal_a that_o be_v god_n give_v not_o unto_o all_o man_n such_o measure_n of_o grace_n whereby_o if_o they_o will_v themselves_o they_o may_v believe_v repent_v and_o be_v save_v for_o in_o christ_n time_n and_o ever_o since_o there_o have_v be_v in_o the_o church_n these_o two_o kind_a of_o hearer_n whereof_o the_o deaf_a hearer_n do_v not_o receive_v nor_o believe_v the_o gospel_n unto_o salvation_n neither_o be_v it_o true_a that_o god_n give_v grace_n sufficient_a unto_o all_o whereby_o they_o may_v be_v save_v if_o they_o by_o their_o malice_n and_o sin_n do_v not_o abolish_v the_o same_o for_o though_o he_o admit_v all_o sort_n into_o his_o church_n yet_o not_o all_o but_o some_o only_o have_v ear_n pierce_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n that_o they_o can_v hear_v and_o therefore_o when_o the_o disciple_n ask_v christ_n 13._o why_o he_o speak_v in_o parable_n he_o answer_v thus_o to_o you_o it_o be_v give_v to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n 11_o and_o the_o secret_n of_o his_o kingdom_n but_o to_o other_o it_o be_v not_o give_v show_v plain_o that_o the_o gift_n of_o hear_v to_o salvation_n be_v not_o give_v to_o all_o and_o in_o some_o make_v void_a by_o their_o own_o wilfulness_n but_o to_o some_o it_o be_v give_v and_o they_o have_v hear_v ear_n and_o to_o some_o it_o be_v not_o give_v and_o their_o ear_n be_v deaf_a second_o see_v this_o commandment_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o hear_n hearer_n we_o must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o become_v good_a hearer_n of_o god_n word_n bring_v with_o we_o not_o only_o the_o bodily_a ear_n which_o we_o have_v by_o creation_n but_o the_o spiritual_a ear_n of_o the_o heart_n which_o we_o have_v by_o regeneration_n for_o it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o our_o salvation_n to_o receive_v the_o word_n into_o the_o outward_a bodily_a ear_n unless_o the_o inward_a ear_n of_o the_o heart_n be_v open_v that_o our_o soul_n may_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o word_n and_o fit_v to_o receive_v to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o same_o thus_o do_v good_a king_n iâ—sias_n hear_v the_o law_n read_v the_o text_n say_v 34·27_n his_o heart_n 〈◊〉_d within_o he_o and_o thus_o do_v david_n hear_v when_o the_o lord_n say_v to_o the_o church_n 27.8_o seek_v â—ee_n my_o face_n his_o heart_n answer_v i_o seek_v thy_o face_n o_o lord_n and_o as_o we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o get_v spiritual_a ear_n so_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o deaf_a ear_n which_o be_v when_o a_o man_n come_v &_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o yet_o have_v no_o care_n in_o his_o heart_n to_o learn_v believe_v or_o obey_v the_o same_o this_o deaf_a ear_n be_v a_o fearful_a judgement_n of_o god_n whereof_o we_o may_v read_v isay._n 6.9_o where_o the_o prophet_n be_v send_v to_o make_v their_o ear_n heavy_a and_o their_o heart_n fat_a that_o they_o may_v not_o bear_v nor_o believe_v lest_o they_o shall_v turn_v and_o be_v save_v and_o this_o the_o rather_o we_o must_v look_v unto_o because_o it_o be_v a_o judgement_n of_o god_n upon_o many_o among_o we_o at_o this_o day_n the_o great_a part_n of_o hearer_n be_v deaf_a hearer_n which_o appear_v by_o this_o that_o after_o long_o teach_v they_o neither_o increase_v in_o knowledge_n nor_o in_o faith_n nor_o in_o obedience_n but_o remain_v the_o same_o for_o blindness_n of_o mind_n hardness_n
natural_a life_n where_o observe_v sundry_a thing_n i._o that_o true_a religion_n and_o piety_n will_v not_o free_v any_o from_o outward_a poverty_n the_o religion_n of_o this_o church_n be_v excellent_a and_o yet_o they_o be_v in_o want_n and_o therefore_o let_v no_o man_n think_v because_o he_o be_v godly_a he_o shall_v be_v rich_a or_o not_o fall_v into_o poverty_n if_o it_o be_v say_v â—_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n not_o only_o of_o the_o life_n to_o come_v but_o also_o of_o this_o life_n that_o be_v of_o earthly_a blessing_n and_o riches_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a but_o yet_o with_o difference_n eternal_a blessing_n only_o be_v promise_v absolute_o and_o temporal_a blessing_n with_o restraint_n namely_o if_o they_o serve_v for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o child_n otherwise_o they_o must_v want_v as_o this_o church_n do_v ii_o the_o lord_n will_v comfort_v this_o church_n in_o her_o poverty_n by_o say_v that_o he_o know_v it_o and_o regard_v it_o where_o we_o see_v a_o mean_n to_o comfort_v all_o those_o that_o be_v in_o want_n of_o outward_a blessing_n they_o must_v consider_v that_o christ_n see_v &_o observe_v their_o want_n whatsoever_o and_o if_o they_o be_v his_o servant_n he_o will_v free_v they_o from_o it_o so_o it_o be_v for_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o their_o soul_n or_o else_o arm_v they_o with_o patience_n to_o bear_v it_o if_o they_o pray_v unto_o he_o iii_o christ_n here_o approve_v of_o work_n where_o he_o acknowledge_v poverty_n so_o that_o good_a work_n and_o poverty_n may_v stand_v together_o and_o therefore_o good_a work_n do_v not_o consist_v only_o in_o large_a aâ—mes_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n will_v have_v it_o though_o these_o have_v due_a reward_n and_o praise_n in_o their_o place_n but_o every_o work_n of_o a_o man_n lawful_a call_n do_v in_o obedience_n to_o god_n with_o a_o honest_a heart_n from_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o for_o god_n glory_n be_v a_o good_a work_n be_v the_o calling_n never_o so_o base_a thus_o may_v the_o shepherd_n please_v god_n in_o his_o call_n as_o well_o as_o the_o magistrate_n or_o minister_n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o work_n that_o commend_v it_o unto_o god_n but_o the_o manner_n of_o do_v but_o thou_o be_v rich_a here_o christ_n intend_v both_o to_o praise_v and_o to_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v notwithstanding_o thy_o outward_a poverty_n yet_o thou_o be_v rich_a in_o god_n 〈◊〉_d luke_n 12.21_o man_n be_v rich_a in_o god_n in_o two_o respect_n i._o when_o they_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n in_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n 2_o cor._n 8_o 9_o christ_n become_v poor_a for_o our_o sake_n that_o we_o through_o his_o poverty_n may_v be_v make_v rich_a that_o be_v that_o we_o may_v have_v the_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o be_v receive_v into_o god_n favour_n hereupon_o david_n call_v the_o lord_n his_o portion_n and_o his_o cup._n and_o durable_a riches_n and_o righteousness_n be_v with_o wisdom_n proverb_n 8.18_o ii_o when_o they_o receive_v his_o grace_n whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o good_a work_n both_o in_o duty_n to_o god_n and_o man_n of_o this_o paul_n speak_v when_o he_o exhort_v rich_a man_n to_o be_v rich_a in_o good_a work_n and_o to_o lay_v up_o for_o themselves_o a_o good_a foundation_n against_o the_o time_n to_o come_v 1._o tim._n 6.16_o in_o this_o commendation_n sundry_a duty_n be_v to_o be_v learn_v i._o poor_a man_n be_v here_o teach_v see_v god_n deny_v unto_o they_o earthly_a riches_n and_o wealth_n to_o labour_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o god_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o he_o in_o christ_n and_o to_o get_v such_o grace_n that_o they_o may_v do_v good_a duty_n both_o unto_o god_n and_o man_n in_o faith_n and_o with_o a_o good_a conscience_n ii_o rich_a man_n on_o who_o god_n bestow_v outward_a wealth_n must_v hereby_o be_v admonish_v to_o embrace_v paul_n charge_n 1._o tim._n 6.17_o 18_o above_o all_o thing_n seek_v for_o true_a riches_n in_o the_o live_a god_n and_o not_o suffer_v these_o outward_a blessing_n to_o puff_n up_o their_o mind_n but_o use_v they_o as_o mean_n to_o make_v they_o rich_a in_o god_n by_o get_v god_n grace_n do_v good_a work_n and_o distribute_v to_o the_o poor_a this_o admonition_n be_v most_o necessary_a for_o though_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n grace_n be_v not_o deny_v unto_o the_o rich_a yet_o sure_o it_o be_v riches_n do_v choke_v the_o seed_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o hinder_v the_o care_n man_n ought_v to_o have_v for_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o hence_o it_o come_v that_o more_o of_o the_o poor_a sort_n receive_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n than_o of_o the_o rich_a iii_o herein_o behold_v the_o madness_n of_o the_o world_n for_o the_o most_o man_n great_a labour_n and_o care_n be_v after_o worldly_a wealth_n and_o honour_n never_o regard_v the_o true_a treasure_n of_o god_n grace_n which_o will_v commend_v they_o unto_o god_n when_o the_o other_o must_v perish_v and_o the_o wicked_a owner_n thereof_o let_v we_o therefore_o judge_v as_o christ_n do_v of_o true_a riches_n and_o according_o labour_v to_o be_v rich_a in_o his_o â—ighâ—_n the_o second_o part_n of_o their_o tribulation_n be_v the_o reproach_n and_o blasphemy_n of_o their_o enemy_n in_o these_o word_n i_o knâ—w_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o etc._n etc._n that_o be_v i_o know_v the_o grievous_a slander_n and_o revile_n which_o thy_o enemy_n fasten_v upon_o thou_o for_o blasphemy_n signify_v not_o only_a speech_n of_o disgrace_n against_o god_n but_o also_o against_o man_n as_o naâ—â—â—b_n be_v accuse_v 1._o king_n 21.10_o to_o 〈◊〉_d blaspheme_v god_n and_o the_o king_n and_o of_o this_o paul_n say_v when_o we_o be_v reâ—â—led_v we_o blesseâ—_n when_o we_o be_v blaspheme_v we_o pray_v 1._o cor._n 4.12_o 13._o hence_o we_o learn_v that_o all_o church_n and_o man_n that_o desire_v true_o to_o serve_v god_n and_o to_o keep_v good_a conscience_n must_v look_v for_o slander_n and_o revile_n neither_o must_v this_o seem_v strange_a unto_o they_o for_o christ_n have_v say_v it_o must_v be_v so_o nay_o rather_o they_o may_v marvel_v if_o they_o shall_v suffer_v no_o reproach_n for_o christ_n sake_n see_v he_o have_v say_v curse_v be_v you_o when_o all_o man_n speak_v well_o of_o you_o luke_n 6.26_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o grievous_a thing_n to_o be_v so_o evil_o reward_v for_o well_o do_v but_o this_o must_v be_v their_o comfort_n and_o ground_n of_o patience_n that_o christ_n hear_v and_o know_v every_o reproach_n and_o will_v in_o his_o good_a time_n remedy_v the_o same_o the_o person_n which_o blaspheme_v this_o church_n be_v thus_o describe_v which_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n as_o in_o other_o famous_a city_n so_o in_o smyrna_n dwell_v some_o of_o the_o jew_n who_o have_v their_o synagogue_n that_o be_v such_o place_n of_o assembly_n where_o they_o serve_v god_n after_o their_o manner_n and_o though_o they_o deny_v christ_n yet_o they_o think_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n in_o all_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o do_v blaspheme_v and_o rail_v upon_o the_o christian_n that_o believe_v in_o christ._n and_o of_o these_o christ_n say_v though_o by_o birth_n they_o be_v jew_n yet_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o the_o israel_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o true_a worshipper_n as_o they_o account_v themselves_o whereby_o in_o general_a we_o may_v see_v from_o who_o come_v rail_n and_o reproach_n on_o god_n servant_n namely_o from_o those_o which_o say_v they_o be_v true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n and_o be_v not_o for_o he_o be_v not_o a_o jew_n that_o be_v 〈◊〉_d outwardpunc_fw-la rom._n 2.28_o he_o therefore_o that_o slander_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o be_v a_o enemy_n to_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o to_o his_o servant_n for_o no_o friend_n of_o christ_n can_v possible_o speak_v evil_a of_o his_o gospel_n and_o religion_n this_o shall_v be_v consider_v for_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o godly_a because_o they_o that_o endeavour_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o sincerity_n be_v of_o all_o man_n most_o subject_a to_o reproach_n he_o that_o refrain_v from_o evil_a make_v himself_o a_o prey_n isaiah_n 59_o 1â—_n touch_v these_o jew_n two_o point_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v i._n what_o they_o be_v in_o their_o own_o opinion_n ii_o what_o they_o be_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o christ._n for_o the_o first_o because_o they_o be_v jew_n by_o birth_n descend_v from_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n god_n ancient_a servant_n therefore_o they_o think_v themselves_o the_o only_a true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n as_o their_o forefather_n be_v and_o
sin_n in_o they_o these_o thing_n we_o shall_v often_o think_v of_o and_o bless_v god_n name_n for_o ever_o that_o by_o his_o providence_n he_o do_v master_n satan_n power_n &_o malice_n and_o so_o dispose_v of_o all_o action_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o they_o tend_v to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n this_o must_v also_o teach_v we_o to_o renounce_v ourselves_o and_o to_o put_v all_o our_o trust_n and_o confidence_n in_o christ_n his_o providence_n make_v that_o our_o comfort_n our_o stay_n and_o protection_n in_o all_o distress_n again_o whereas_o the_o end_n of_o affliction_n in_o god_n church_n be_v the_o trial_n of_o faith_n &_o other_o grace_n hence_o we_o be_v teach_v many_o thing_n first_o to_o labour_v to_o have_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o power_n of_o godliness_n in_o true_a faith_n and_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o form_n and_o show_v thereof_o in_o a_o naked_a profession_n only_o for_o we_o must_v be_v cast_v into_o the_o fiery_a trial_n of_o affliction_n to_o see_v what_o be_v in_o our_o heart_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n show_v will_v not_o serve_v the_o turn_n nor_o stand_v we_o in_o steâ—d_n trial_n and_o affliction_n will_v consume_v they_o as_o the_o fire_n do_v dross_n and_o stubble_n second_o to_o be_v joyful_a and_o glad_a when_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o call_v we_o to_o suffer_v for_o his_o sake_n because_o this_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o make_v know_v good_a grace_n in_o our_o heart_n james_n 1.2_o brethren_n count_v it_o exceed_v great_a joy_n when_o you_o fall_v into_o diverse_a affliction_n know_v that_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n bring_v forth_o patience_n v._o argument_n the_o time_n of_o their_o continuance_n in_o affliction_n be_v for_o ten_o day_n by_o which_o some_o understand_v a_o long_a time_n according_a unto_o that_o which_o jacob_n say_v to_o laban_n 41._o thou_o have_v change_v my_o wage_n ten_o time_n that_o be_v often_o and_o so_o the_o israelit_n be_v say_v to_o sin_n 14.22_o ten_o time_n against_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v many_o time_n but_o this_o exposition_n will_v not_o so_o fit_o stand_v in_o this_o place_n for_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n but_o what_o comfort_n can_v this_o be_v to_o say_v they_o shall_v be_v so_o long_o in_o affliction_n other_o expound_v ten_o day_n to_o be_v ten_o year_n and_o so_o the_o word_n day_n be_v sometime_o use_v to_o betoken_v year_n for_o in_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v year_n of_o day_n as_o well_o as_o year_n of_o week_n but_o though_o this_o exposition_n may_v well_o stand_v with_o the_o word_n yet_o none_o can_v show_v by_o true_a record_n that_o this_o church_n be_v afflict_v only_o fâ—â—tenne_v year_n and_o no_o long_o therefore_o a_o three_o exposition_n be_v this_o that_o by_o ten_o day_n be_v mean_v some_o short_a space_n of_o time_n and_o i_o so_o understand_v this_o place_n because_o it_o be_v most_o suitable_a to_o all_o circumstance_n for_o here_o christ_n intend_v to_o comfort_v this_o church_n which_o be_v most_o fit_o do_v by_o foretell_v a_o short_a time_n of_o their_o affliction_n use_n in_o this_o circumstance_n of_o time_n christ_n set_v down_o two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o affliction_n of_o god_n church_n and_o people_n be_v for_o a_o certain_a time_n decree_v of_o god_n which_o can_v be_v change_v lengthen_a or_o shorten_v particular_a proof_n hereof_o we_o have_v in_o scripture_n so_o god_n foretell_v abraham_n that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o people_n shall_v be_v 430_o year_n which_o time_n they_o be_v afflict_v especial_o in_o egypt_n but_o at_o the_o same_o night_n when_o those_o year_n be_v expire_v they_o be_v lead_v out_o of_o egypt_n and_o their_o affliction_n cease_v exod._n 12.46_o and_o the_o 70_o year_n captivity_n be_v well_o know_v unto_o daniel_n to_o be_v determine_v of_o the_o lord_n and_o therefore_o he_o arm_v himself_o with_o patience_n during_o that_o time_n and_o pray_v not_o for_o deliverance_n until_o it_o shall_v be_v expire_v the_o consideration_n hereof_o must_v move_v we_o to_o arm_v ourselves_o with_o patience_n when_o god_n shall_v send_v affliction_n because_o we_o can_v deliver_v ourselves_o before_o the_o time_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o continuance_n of_o our_o affliction_n be_v set_v down_o by_o god_n and_o can_v be_v change_v by_o us._n second_o here_o christ_n show_v that_o the_o affliction_n of_o his_o church_n be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n and_o therefore_o paul_n 4.17_o call_v they_o moment_n any_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n which_o shall_v be_v reveal_v at_o the_o end_n of_o this_o life_n and_o never_o have_v end_n which_o be_v a_o singular_a ground_n of_o comfort_n unto_o the_o child_n of_o god_n in_o any_o distress_n thus_o we_o see_v the_o part_n of_o this_o pprophecy_n yet_o in_o the_o word_n there_o be_v a_o further_a thing_n intend_v for_o every_o word_n contain_v a_o reason_n to_o comfort_v this_o church_n as_o first_o from_o the_o cause_n of_o their_o persecution_n which_o be_v the_o devil_n and_o therefore_o they_o must_v not_o fear_v for_o if_o he_o cast_v they_o into_o prison_n their_o case_n be_v good_a he_o be_v god_n enemy_n and_o so_o the_o lord_n be_v on_o their_o side_n who_o then_o can_v be_v against_o they_o to_o do_v they_o hurt_v second_o not_o all_o your_o whole_a church_n but_o only_o some_o say_v christ_n must_v be_v afflict_v three_o satan_n can_v kill_v you_o but_o only_o cast_v you_o into_o prison_n four_o his_o imprisonment_n shall_v not_o tend_v to_o your_o damnation_n but_o make_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o grace_n and_o last_o it_o be_v but_o for_o a_o short_a time_n in_o all_o which_o you_o may_v see_v the_o power_n of_o god_n providence_n overrule_a your_o enemy_n and_o turn_v his_o rage_n unto_o your_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o take_v comfort_n and_o courage_n unto_o your_o soul_n lay_v aside_o all_o fear_n and_o all_o dread_a and_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n to_o the_o end_n the_o three_o part_n of_o this_o counsel_n be_v a_o most_o bless_a precept_n contain_v most_o heavenly_a advice_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n god_n servant_n be_v call_v faithful_a in_o regard_n of_o their_o fidelity_n which_o they_o owe_v to_o god_n and_o that_o be_v in_o two_o respect_n i._n every_o member_n of_o christ_n be_v baptize_v wherein_o god_n for_o his_o part_n promise_v christ_n with_o life_n everlasting_a and_o the_o party_n baptize_v promise_v unto_o god_n again_o that_o he_o will_v deny_v himself_o and_o cast_v himself_o whole_o upon_o god_n in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o promise_n â—s_v call_v the_o stipulation_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o pet._n 3.21_o and_o when_o a_o man_n keep_v this_o promise_n make_v to_o god_n then_o be_v he_o faithful_a and_o when_o he_o break_v it_o he_o be_v unfaithful_a ii_o god_n give_v unto_o his_o child_n many_o good_a gift_n and_o grace_n as_o knowledge_n faith_n repentance_n and_o care_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n which_o he_o will_v have_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o keep_v and_o preserve_v and_o therefore_o paul_n bid_v timothy_n â—0_n keep_v that_o thing_n which_o be_v commit_v unto_o he_o of_o trust_n now_o a_o man_n be_v faithful_a unto_o god_n when_o he_o make_v good_a use_n of_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o still_o preserve_v the_o same_o use_v they_o for_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o of_o his_o brethren_n like_a as_o we_o be_v count_v faithful_a with_o man_n when_o we_o keep_v that_o thing_n safe_a which_o be_v commit_v unto_o we_o of_o trust_n the_o meaning_n then_o of_o christ_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v make_v a_o promise_n unto_o i_o in_o baptism_n to_o renounce_v sin_n and_o satan_n and_o to_o keep_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n unto_o death_n therefore_o perform_v this_o thy_o promise_n and_o for_o those_o gift_n which_o i_o have_v commit_v of_o trust_n unto_o thou_o see_v thou_o keep_v they_o well_o and_o use_v they_o to_o my_o glory_n in_o the_o good_a of_o thy_o brethren_n against_o this_o precept_n three_o sort_n of_o man_n offend_v and_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n i._n those_o that_o be_v baptize_v do_v yet_o live_v in_o ignorance_n and_o security_n never_o seek_v to_o know_v god_n or_o to_o understand_v his_o will_n no_o not_o so_o much_o as_o for_o their_o own_o vow_n in_o baptism_n though_o none_o will_v brag_v more_o of_o fidelity_n unto_o god_n than_o these_o man_n do_v ii_o those_o that_o have_v knowledge_n and_o understanding_n in_o god_n will_n and_o yet_o make_v no_o conscience_n to_o live_v according_o
himself_o from_o such_o aâ—_n teach_v otherwise_o than_o he_o have_v give_v direct_a on_o and_o consent_v not_o unto_o the_o wholesome_a word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o the_o doctrine_n which_o be_v according_a to_o godliness_n be_v puff_v up_o and_o know_v nothing_o this_o than_o must_v be_v our_o careful_a practice_n we_o have_v by_o god_n mercy_n true_a religion_n among_o we_o which_o we_o must_v maintain_v with_o zeal_n and_o if_o any_o bring_v in_o other_o doctrine_n we_o must_v reject_v it_o and_o show_v forth_o detestation_n to_o he_o that_o bring_v it_o not_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n 2._o john_n 10._o we_o must_v rather_o loose_v our_o life_n than_o suffer_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n to_o be_v deface_v three_o that_o which_o christ_n lay_v to_o the_o charge_n of_o this_o church_n may_v in_o sundry_a respect_n be_v charge_v upon_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n at_o this_o day_n namely_o want_v of_o zeal_n against_o sin_n and_o severity_n against_o sinner_n for_o though_o the_o governor_n of_o our_o church_n repel_v the_o heresy_n of_o popery_n anabaptist_n and_o family_n of_o love_n and_o suppress_v all_o doctrine_n that_o race_n the_o foundation_n which_o be_v commendable_a thing_n yet_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o our_o congregation_n be_v abundance_n of_o atheist_n who_o by_o deed_n and_o conversation_n deny_v christ_n jesus_n for_o many_o know_v nothing_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o more_o be_v profane_a who_o both_o think_v and_o speak_v most_o base_o of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o teacher_n and_o professor_n thereof_o yea_o we_o have_v flat_a epicure_n permit_v to_o live_v in_o our_o church_n such_o as_o make_v their_o belly_n their_o god_n who_o give_v themselves_o whole_o unto_o eat_v drink_v sport_n and_o delight_n without_o all_o regard_n either_o of_o the_o general_a duty_n of_o christianity_n or_o of_o the_o particular_a duty_n of_o their_o call_n we_o have_v also_o among_o we_o many_o cruel_a and_o merciless_a person_n that_o in_o their_o affair_n abound_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o fraud_n wrong_v usury_n and_o oppression_n 5.11_o who_o tread_v be_v upon_o the_o poor_a in_o the_o pride_n of_o their_o covetousness_n whereby_o also_o they_o eat_v the_o flesh_n of_o godâ—_n people_n and_o flay_v off_o their_o skin_n from_o they_o and_o break_v their_o bone_n and_o chap_v they_o in_o piece_n as_o for_o the_o pot_n and_o as_o flesh_n within_o the_o cauldron_n mich._n 3.6_o and_o yet_o all_o these_o because_o they_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o civil_a authority_n be_v permit_v without_o controlment_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o god_n church_n even_o to_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o seal_n of_o god_n covenant_n be_v themselves_o flat_a enemy_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n yea_o many_o of_o these_o be_v great_o countenance_v and_o grace_v for_o wisdom_n and_o reputation_n when_o as_o such_o as_o fear_v god_n and_o make_v conscience_n of_o their_o way_n be_v count_v vile_a all_o which_o as_o it_o argue_v exceed_v want_n of_o zeal_n in_o severity_n against_o sin_n so_o it_o can_v choose_v but_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o come_v against_o we_o in_o judgement_n as_o he_o do_v against_o this_o church_n the_o mean_n whereby_o this_o evil_a be_v to_o be_v reform_v do_v follow_v afterward_o iii_o point_n the_o reason_n or_o confirmation_n of_o the_o former_a reproof_n whereby_o the_o lord_n will_v move_v this_o church_n to_o detest_v these_o false_a teacher_n be_v take_v from_o the_o effect_n of_o their_o doctrine_n and_o it_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o this_o similitude_n as_o balaam_n the_o false_a prophet_n teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o this_o church_n maintain_v among_o they_o nicholaitan_o who_o teach_v it_o be_v lawful_a to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n at_o idol_n feast_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o similitude_n be_v in_o the_o end_n of_o this_o 14_o verse_n which_o teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n etc._n etc._n the_o second_o part_n be_v in_o the_o 15_o verse_n touch_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n we_o be_v to_o observe_v three_o point_n first_o what_o a_o stumble_a block_n or_o a_o offence_n be_v second_o what_o it_o be_v to_o cast_v or_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n three_o by_o what_o mean_v king_n balac_n do_v cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n for_o the_o first_o a_o stumble_a block_n be_v proper_o any_o thing_n as_o wood_n or_o stone_n or_o such_o like_a that_o be_v cast_v in_o a_o man_n way_n to_o hinder_v he_o in_o his_o gate_n and_o to_o cause_v he_o to_o trip_v or_o fall_v and_o by_o resemblance_n in_o this_o place_n a_o offence_n be_v any_o thing_n that_o cause_v a_o man_n to_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o so_o to_o slip_v or_o fall_v or_o to_o go_v out_o of_o his_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o life_n further_o a_o offence_n be_v twofold_a either_o give_v or_o take_v a_o offence_n give_v be_v any_o speech_n or_o deed_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v provoke_v to_o sin_n and_o so_o be_v peter_n a_o offence_n unto_o christ_n though_o he_o take_v it_o not_o mat._n 16.23_o a_o offence_n take_v be_v when_o any_o man_n take_v occasion_n to_o fall_v and_o sin_n by_o that_o which_o be_v well_o do_v by_o other_o so_o be_v the_o pharisy_n offend_v at_o the_o sacred_a preach_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ._n ii_o point_n the_o cast_n or_o put_v of_o a_o stumble_a block_n or_o give_v a_o offence_n be_v the_o do_v or_o say_v of_o any_o thing_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v occasion_v to_o sin_n and_o this_o be_v do_v either_o about_o thing_n evil_a in_o themselves_o or_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a thing_n evil_a be_v such_o as_o god_n word_n forbid_v and_o they_o be_v twofold_a either_o persuasion_n or_o example_n bad_a persuasion_n be_v false_a doctrine_n and_o evil_a counsel_n bad_a example_n be_v also_o a_o give_v of_o offence_n because_o it_o do_v embolden_v evil_a man_n in_o their_o sin_n and_o draw_v the_o godly_a to_o evil_n again_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a as_o meat_n drink_n apparel_n etc._n etc._n may_v offence_n be_v give_v when_o as_o they_o be_v use_v unreasonable_o not_o in_o fit_a time_n and_o place_n and_o before_o fit_a person_n and_o of_o this_o paul_n speak_v say_v if_o i_o know_v my_o eat_n do_v offend_v my_o brother_n i_o will_v eat_v no_o flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v the_o offence_n here_o speak_v of_o be_v a_o offence_n give_v in_o evil_a thing_n for_o it_o be_v a_o evil_a act_n do_v by_o balaam_n and_o according_o receive_v and_o take_v of_o the_o israelit_n for_o he_o use_v outward_a provocation_n to_o allure_v they_o unto_o sin_n iii_o point_n the_o mean_n whereby_o king_n balac_n do_v cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n by_o provoke_v they_o to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n that_o we_o may_v understand_v this_o full_o read_v number_n 25._o the_o sum_n of_o the_o history_n be_v this_o when_o balaam_n have_v assay_v sundry_a way_n to_o curse_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o can_v not_o he_o give_v balac_n counsel_v to_o use_v mean_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o sin_n at_o his_o counsel_n balac_n send_v forth_o the_o most_o beautiful_a woman_n in_o his_o kingdom_n into_o the_o camp_n of_o israel_n to_o entice_v they_o to_o the_o service_n of_o their_o idol_n and_o to_o banquet_n with_o they_o at_o their_o idol_n feast_n that_o so_o they_o may_v draw_v they_o to_o fornication_n whereunto_o the_o israelite_n condescend_v and_o so_o sin_v against_o god_n thus_o much_o of_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n first_o use_n here_o observe_v a_o special_a property_n of_o false_a teacher_n namely_o to_o cast_v offence_n before_o man_n to_o cause_v they_o to_o fall_v in_o the_o way_n that_o lead_v to_o salvation_n by_o this_o christ_n intend_v to_o make_v know_v unto_o this_o church_n the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o balaam_n paul_n in_o his_o epistle_n 1.1_o call_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o truth_n according_a to_o godliness_n because_o the_o intent_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o lead_v man_n to_o true_a godliness_n on_o the_o contrary_a the_o doctrine_n of_o antichrist_n be_v call_v â—_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n because_o the_o scope_n thereof_o be_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o all_o iniquity_n and_o abomination_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o rule_n whereby_o we_o may_v judge_v between_o true_a doctrine_n and_o false_a even_o by_o look_v into_o the_o end_n and_o scope_n thereof_o if_o it_o aim_v at_o true_a
people_n do_v not_o repent_v the_o lord_n will_v come_v unto_o they_o to_o execute_v his_o judgement_n upon_o they_o yea_o though_o they_o have_v before_o repent_v if_o for_o particular_a sin_n and_o want_n they_o do_v not_o renew_v their_o repentance_n he_o will_v sure_o come_v to_o punish_v they_o this_o may_v be_v prove_v at_o large_a by_o testimony_n of_o the_o prophet_n &_o apostle_n but_o it_o be_v so_o evident_a in_o this_o text_n that_o i_o omit_v all_o further_a proof_n only_o i_o will_v apply_v it_o to_o this_o our_o church_n of_o which_o this_o may_v be_v true_o say_v thou_o do_v not_o repent_v nor_o renew_v thy_o repentance_n for_o thy_o daily_a sin_n for_o albeit_o there_o be_v some_o among_o we_o that_o by_o god_n grace_n repent_v and_o set_v themselves_o daily_o to_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o yet_o take_v the_o great_a part_n of_o our_o congregation_n and_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o renew_v their_o repentance_n that_o they_o do_v not_o repent_v at_o all_o for_o either_o they_o have_v no_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n or_o if_o they_o have_v knowledge_n yet_o they_o want_v care_n and_o conscience_n to_o put_v the_o same_o in_o practice_n this_o be_v our_o case_n and_o condition_n what_o man_n may_v not_o be_v a_o prophet_n against_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n be_v thus_o direct_v by_o this_o portion_n of_o scripture_n to_o say_v and_o that_o true_o that_o god_n will_v come_v unto_o we_o in_o judgment_n to_o plague_v and_o punish_v we_o for_o our_o sin_n and_o iniquity_n we_o may_v soothe_v ourselves_o in_o hope_n of_o mercy_n still_o but_o the_o state_n of_o our_o church_n continue_v as_o it_o be_v nothing_o can_v be_v expect_v but_o judgement_n from_o the_o lord_n this_o then_o must_v be_v a_o motive_n to_o persuade_v we_o to_o repent_v every_o person_n apart_o and_o every_o family_n &_o congregation_n apart_o we_o must_v humble_v ourselves_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n for_o our_o sin_n past_a entreat_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v reconcile_v unto_o we_o and_o purpose_n full_o in_o our_o heart_n and_o strive_v in_o our_o life_n to_o obey_v god_n in_o all_o his_o commandment_n yea_o though_o we_o can_v say_v we_o have_v repent_v yet_o for_o our_o daily_a want_n and_o sin_n we_o must_v renew_v our_o repentance_n thus_o do_v we_o shall_v stay_v the_o lord_n when_o he_o be_v come_v against_o us._n but_o if_o we_o go_v on_o in_o blindness_n ignorance_n and_o rebellion_n follow_v the_o lust_n of_o our_o own_o heart_n than_o nothing_o but_o vengeance_n and_o judgement_n be_v to_o be_v expect_v for_o this_o conclusion_n must_v stand_v with_o all_o church_n and_o people_n if_o they_o repent_v not_o god_n will_v come_v in_o judgement_n against_o they_o the_o second_o threaten_v or_o commination_n be_v direct_v unto_o the_o nicolaitan_o in_o these_o word_n and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n that_o be_v i_o will_v be_v at_o emnitie_n with_o they_o and_o testify_v the_o same_o by_o wage_n battle_n against_o those_o among_o you_o that_o maintain_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o of_o fornication_n thus_o i_o say_v will_v i_o fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n that_o be_v with_o the_o preach_n of_o my_o word_n the_o law_n and_o the_o gospel_n in_o this_o commination_n christ_n allude_v still_o to_o the_o story_n of_o balaam_n for_o when_o he_o be_v send_v for_o by_o balac_n to_o curse_v the_o people_n of_o god_n the_o lord_n stand_v against_o he_o in_o the_o way_n with_o a_o naked_a sword_n to_o keep_v he_o from_o go_v and_o when_o his_o eye_n be_v open_v that_o he_o see_v the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n withstand_v he_o in_o that_o sort_n he_o fall_v down_o and_o adore_v the_o angel_n for_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n yet_o because_o he_o cease_v not_o from_o his_o wicked_a covetousness_n but_o give_v bad_a counsel_n against_o the_o israelite_n when_o he_o can_v not_o curse_v they_o to_o cause_v they_o to_o sin_n therefore_o he_o be_v slay_v with_o the_o edge_n of_o the_o sword_n among_o the_o midianite_n by_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n num._n 31.8_o even_o so_o christ_n deal_v with_o the_o nicolaitan_o because_o they_o go_v on_o in_o their_o bad_a counsel_n persuade_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n &_o also_o of_o fornication_n therefore_o first_o he_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n thereby_o to_o reclaim_v they_o from_o their_o wicked_a way_n if_o it_o be_v possible_a but_o if_o that_o will_v not_o serve_v he_o will_v still_o fight_v against_o they_o and_o with_o the_o same_o sword_n destroy_v they_o for_o ever_o first_o here_o mark_v christ_n say_v not_o use_n i_o will_v kill_v they_o but_o fight_v against_o they_o for_o he_o intend_v not_o at_o the_o first_o to_o destroy_v these_o nicolaitan_o but_o his_o purpose_n be_v to_o withdraw_v they_o from_o their_o wicked_a way_n yet_o so_o as_o afterward_o if_o they_o will_v not_o be_v reclaim_v by_o his_o word_n he_o will_v therewith_o destroy_v they_o wherein_o we_o may_v behold_v the_o exceed_a patience_n of_o christ_n jesus_n towards_o lewd_a and_o grievous_a sinner_n that_o maintain_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n and_o give_v themselves_o thereunto_o so_o the_o lord_n use_n in_o spirit_n stroâ—e_n with_o the_o old_a world_n and_o spare_v they_o 120_o year_n to_o withdraw_v they_o from_o their_o wickedness_n by_o the_o preach_n of_o noe._n so_o likewise_o he_o spare_v the_o ammonite_n 15.16_o till_o their_o sin_n be_v come_v to_o the_o full_a and_o the_o egyptian_n also_o for_o many_o hundred_o year_n though_o they_o be_v most_o cruel_a persecutor_n of_o his_o own_o people_n and_o though_o the_o jew_n most_o malicious_o crucify_v the_o lord_n of_o life_n yet_o he_o spare_v they_o fifty_o year_n before_o he_o cut_v they_o off_o from_o be_v a_o people_n yea_o daily_a experience_n teach_v we_o this_o his_o long_a suffering_n we_o may_v hear_v most_o bloody_a and_o bitter_a oath_n from_o blasphemer_n whereby_o they_o daily_o crucify_v christ_n with_o their_o tongue_n the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o the_o adulterer_n and_o all_o cruel_a person_n and_o yet_o he_o forbear_v the_o same_o yea_o in_o our_o own_o self_n we_o daily_o taste_v of_o this_o his_o patience_n for_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o be_v bear_v we_o deserve_v to_o be_v cast_v into_o hell_n and_o yet_o in_o mercy_n he_o vouchsafe_v unto_o we_o to_o some_o twenty_o to_o some_o thirty_o and_o to_o some_o more_o year_n for_o a_o time_n of_o repentance_n when_o as_o every_o day_n he_o may_v in_o justice_n condemn_v us._n this_o therefore_o must_v admonish_v we_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n not_o to_o abuse_v this_o his_o long_a suffer_v any_o long_o but_o now_o while_o the_o day_n of_o mercy_n last_v to_o humble_v ourselves_o and_o turn_v unto_o he_o by_o true_a repentance_n these_o be_v the_o day_n of_o grace_n but_o how_o long_o they_o will_v last_v god_n only_o know_v for_o when_o death_n once_o come_v he_o show_v no_o more_o mercy_n the_o old_a world_n because_o they_o abuse_v the_o long_a suffering_n of_o god_n â—0_n be_v destroy_v and_o be_v now_o in_o hell_n in_o prison_n for_o it_o as_o peter_n teach_v and_o undoubted_o the_o same_o prison_n will_v be_v our_o portion_n if_o we_o take_v the_o same_o course_n that_o they_o do_v second_o in_o this_o threaten_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o all_o irrepentant_a sinner_n have_v god_n for_o their_o enemy_n to_o fight_v against_o they_o with_o a_o draw_a sword_n for_o this_o cause_n sin_n in_o scripture_n be_v call_v rebellion_n and_o every_o sinner_n be_v a_o rebel_n against_o god_n a_o fearful_a thing_n it_o be_v to_o have_v god_n for_o a_o enemy_n and_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o condition_n not_o only_o of_o such_o as_o do_v never_o repent_v but_o of_o all_o those_o that_o hold_v the_o name_n of_o christ_n in_o profession_n and_o yet_o continue_v in_o any_o one_o sin_n without_o renew_v their_o repentance_n this_o also_o must_v serve_v to_o induce_v every_o man_n that_o have_v not_o repent_v now_o to_o begin_v and_o if_o they_o have_v begin_v to_o repent_v more_o daily_o renew_v the_o same_o for_o their_o daily_a slip_n and_o so_o shall_v they_o be_v the_o friend_n of_o christ_n as_o 13_o abraham_n be_v and_o aâ—_n his_o disciple_n be_v joâ—_a 15.15_o three_o in_o these_o two_o threatening_n christ_n show_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o true_a doctor_n of_o his_o church_n for_o he_o will_v fight_v against_o these_o nicolaitan_o when_o as_o he_o will_v only_o come_v unto_o his_o church_n where_o we_o see_v he_o devide_v his_o word_n aright_o wherein_o consist_v the_o principal_a wisdom_n of_o a_o true_a
seek_v another_o good_a go_v through_o town_n market_n and_o fair_n and_o rare_a it_o be_v to_o find_v a_o man_n that_o in_o his_o affair_n seek_v the_o common_a good_a as_o well_o as_o his_o own_o for_o this_o be_v the_o common_a rule_n may_v i_o not_o make_v of_o my_o own_o what_o i_o will_v but_o he_o that_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o love_n seek_v not_o his_o own_o only_a but_o the_o good_a of_o other_o also_o 1._o corinth_n 13.5_o here_o than_o we_o must_v learn_v to_o practice_v this_o virtue_n use_n that_o we_o may_v have_v christ_n commendation_n with_o this_o church_n every_o man_n in_o the_o general_a call_n of_o a_o christian_n will_v make_v great_a show_n of_o love_n as_o when_o he_o come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n &_o in_o prayer_n but_o in_o their_o particular_a affair_n few_o show_n forth_o true_a love_n nay_o many_o by_o lie_v oppression_n cruelty_n flea_n the_o skin_n from_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o flesh_n from_o the_o bone_n of_o the_o poor_a 3_o and_o break_v the_o bone_n within_o the_o flesh_n and_o chap_v they_o as_o for_o the_o pot_n as_o the_o prophet_n speak_v these_o little_a consider_v this_o rule_n or_o that_o account_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v take_v of_o they_o who_o have_v swear_v never_o to_o forget_v these_o work_n amos._n 8.7_o learn_v therefore_o in_o thy_o particular_a calling_n to_o show_v forth_o love_n and_o employ_v thy_o commodity_n not_o for_o thyself_o alone_o but_o for_o the_o good_a of_o those_o with_o who_o thou_o live_v herein_o be_v love_n and_o hereby_o shall_v thou_o be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n john_n 13.35_o and_o the_o child_n of_o god_n translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n 1._o john_n 3._o vers_fw-la 14._o the_o second_o thing_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v service_n to_o omit_v the_o diverse_a signification_n of_o the_o word_n here_o it_o betoken_v a_o work_n of_o love_n whereby_o a_o man_n within_o the_o compass_n of_o his_o call_n become_v a_o servant_n unto_o every_o man_n for_o that_o man_n good_a read_v heb._n 6.10_o where_o this_o be_v both_o commend_v and_o describe_v gal._n 5.13_o do_v service_n one_o to_o another_o in_o love_n 1._o cor._n 13.5_o love_n seek_v not_o her_o own_o but_o make_v herself_o servant_n to_o all_o to_o do_v they_o good_a and_o christ_n commandment_n be_v let_v he_o that_o will_v be_v chief_a among_o you_o be_v as_o the_o servant_n luke_n 22.26_o now_o the_o principal_a part_n of_o this_o service_n be_v when_o a_o man_n be_v ready_a with_o hâ—s_a good_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n to_o help_v the_o poor_a especial_o those_o that_o be_v godly_a this_o be_v a_o fruit_n of_o love_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v here_o set_v after_o it_o as_o also_o in_o the_o place_n before_o name_v hebr._n 6._o vers_fw-la 10._o gal._n 5.13_o use_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o church_n and_o people_n may_v have_v the_o like_a praise_n for_o this_o virtue_n but_o the_o rich_a sort_n spend_v their_o substance_n and_o wealth_n upon_o hawk_n and_o hound_n bull_n and_o bear_v upon_o costly_a attire_n and_o banquet_v so_o as_o when_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v in_o need_n come_v for_o relief_n they_o have_v nothing_o to_o spare_v and_o if_o any_o thing_n be_v give_v it_o be_v draw_v as_o hardly_o from_o they_o as_o a_o rib_n out_o of_o their_o side_n man_n will_v give_v frank_o to_o delight_v themselves_o with_o play_n and_o pastime_n and_o such_o like_a vanity_n but_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v their_o own_o flesh_n may_v die_v in_o the_o street_n for_o want_n of_o that_o which_o man_n give_v to_o their_o dog_n but_o if_o we_o respect_v the_o commendation_n of_o christ_n jesus_n let_v we_o abandon_v these_o vanity_n which_o hinder_v we_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o virtue_n of_o service_n for_o the_o good_a of_o our_o brethren_n and_o to_o induce_v all_o man_n hereto_o let_v they_o consider_v i._o how_o the_o church_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v charge_v with_o give_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o their_o wine_n corn_n and_o oil_n and_o likewise_o with_o many_o sacrifice_n and_o ceremony_n which_o belong_v to_o the_o temple_n these_o thing_n indeed_o be_v cease_v and_o yet_o we_o may_v not_o misspend_v these_o good_a which_o hereby_o be_v spare_v for_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n the_o poor_a be_v in_o steed_n of_o the_o altar_n and_o they_o must_v have_v that_o which_o the_o altar_n have_v among_o the_o jew_n again_o isay._n 58.18_o he_o that_o pour_v forth_o his_o soul_n to_o the_o hungry_a that_o be_v he_o that_o see_v the_o poor_a in_o misery_n have_v the_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n move_v towards_o they_o and_o from_o his_o pitiful_a hart_n relieve_v their_o want_n according_a to_o his_o ability_n his_o light_n shall_v never_o be_v put_v out_o but_o shall_v spring_v out_o of_o the_o darkness_n and_o his_o darkness_n shall_v be_v as_o the_o noon_n day_n this_o be_v pure_a religion_n 27·_v and_o undefiled_a before_o god_n to_o visit_v the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n in_o their_o adversity_n remember_v this_o he_o that_o have_v mercy_n upon_o the_o poor_a dare_v unto_o the_o lord_n prou._n 19.17_o so_o that_o when_o the_o poor_a come_v for_o relief_n god_n come_v to_o borrow_v of_o we_o some_o of_o that_o which_o he_o have_v give_v us._n the_o poor_a be_v the_o lord_n collector_n now_o when_o the_o lord_n will_v borrow_v of_o we_o shall_v we_o make_v denial_n &_o send_v he_o empty_a away_o three_o consider_v that_o christ_n himself_o come_v in_o the_o person_n of_o the_o poor_a that_o be_v hungry_a sick_a naked_a or_o in_o any_o want_n and_o therefore_o if_o we_o will_v escape_v the_o fearful_a sentence_n of_o condemnation_n at_o the_o last_o day_n away_o from_o i_o you_o curse_v into_o everlasting_a fire_n for_o i_o be_v a_o hunger_a and_o you_o give_v i_o no_o meat_n etc._n etc._n then_o we_o must_v have_v regard_n unto_o the_o poor_a and_o show_v our_o bounty_n in_o their_o relief_n who_o be_v our_o own_o flesh_n so_o shall_v we_o make_v god_n our_o debtor_n and_o be_v commend_v with_o this_o church_n by_o christ_n himself_o in_o this_o world_n and_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n hear_v that_o bless_a voice_n of_o his_o approbation_n come_v you_o bless_v math._n 25.34_o the_o three_o virtue_n for_o which_o this_o church_n be_v commend_v be_v their_o faith_n by_o faith_n here_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v fidelity_n which_o be_v a_o virtue_n whereby_o a_o man_n be_v faithful_a to_o god_n in_o keep_v that_o vow_n and_o promise_v which_o he_o make_v to_o he_o in_o his_o baptism_n which_o be_v to_o renounce_v and_o deny_v himself_o and_o whole_o to_o give_v up_o himself_o to_o acknowledge_v one_o god_n in_o three_o person_n and_o according_o to_o believe_v in_o to_o worship_n and_o obey_v the_o same_o god_n all_o his_o life_n long_o in_o this_o sense_n be_v faith_n take_v of_o paul_n 5.12_o when_o he_o say_v that_o young_a widow_n have_v damnation_n because_o they_o have_v forsake_v their_o first_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o former_a epistle_n of_o christ_n unto_o these_o church_n where_o he_o command_v they_o to_o be_v faithful_a use_n it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v that_o our_o church_n and_o congregation_n may_v in_o like_a manner_n be_v commend_v for_o their_o fidelity_n to_o god_n but_o that_o can_v true_o be_v do_v of_o we_o general_o it_o be_v a_o common_a thing_n for_o man_n to_o swear_v by_o their_o faith_n but_o it_o be_v a_o rare_a thing_n to_o find_v a_o man_n to_o keep_v his_o faith_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o this_o short_a survey_n of_o our_o people_n for_o first_o the_o great_a part_n in_o all_o place_n be_v ignorant_a of_o god_n of_o his_o word_n and_o of_o their_o vow_n to_o he_o in_o baptism_n and_o also_o void_a of_o care_n to_o attain_v hereto_o now_o all_o these_o be_v unfaithful_a unto_o god_n other_o though_o they_o have_v knowledge_n yet_o they_o have_v no_o love_n nor_o care_n of_o good_a thing_n which_o concern_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n but_o all_o their_o delight_n be_v in_o eat_v drink_v game_a and_o in_o pastime_n and_o pleasure_n herein_o they_o spend_v their_o time_n and_o strength_n and_o these_o also_o have_v deny_v their_o first_o faith_n &_o their_o case_n be_v dangerous_a for_o as_o yet_o their_o belly_n and_o their_o pleasure_n be_v their_o god_n and_o their_o end_n will_v be_v damnation_n a_o three_o sort_n be_v term_v the_o wise_a man_n of_o the_o world_n but_o if_o we_o regard_v their_o fidelity_n to_o god_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o they_o they_o be_v worldly_a person_n and_o earthly_a mind_v such_o as_o spend_v both_o wit_n and_o strength_n to_o get_v wealth_n like_v unto_o the_o mole_n who_o be_v always_o in_o the_o earth_n these_o also_o
this_o duty_n especial_o concern_v the_o preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n they_o shall_v teach_v the_o truth_n and_o confute_v error_n and_o beat_v down_o false_a doctrine_n which_o poison_n the_o truth_n of_o god_n if_o in_o the_o night_n season_n a_o man_n set_v up_o a_o false_a light_n in_o the_o haven_n all_o the_o ship_n that_o be_v come_v to_o land_n be_v in_o danger_n of_o shipwreck_n so_o in_o god_n church_n if_o the_o bright_a light_n of_o pure_a religion_n be_v not_o set_v up_o and_o advance_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o gulf_n of_o hell_n the_o want_n of_o care_n in_o perform_v this_o duty_n be_v the_o cause_n why_o god_n send_v heresy_n and_o apostasy_n into_o his_o church_n thus_o come_v in_o the_o apostasy_n of_o antichrist_n 2._o thess._n 2.10_o 11_o because_o man_n love_v not_o the_o truth_n and_o i_o no_o doubt_n will_v the_o lord_n deal_v with_o we_o if_o we_o have_v not_o care_n to_o maintain_v the_o purity_n of_o apostolical_a doctrine_n verse_n 26._o for_o he_o that_o overcom_v and_o keep_v my_o work_n unto_o the_o end_n to_o he_o will_v i_o give_v power_n over_o nation_n 27._o and_o he_o shall_v rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n and_o as_o the_o vessel_n of_o a_o potter_n shall_v they_o be_v break_v 28._o even_o as_o i_o receive_v of_o my_o father_n so_o will_v i_o give_v he_o the_o morning_n star_n 29._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n here_o be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n which_o contain_v two_o part_n first_o a_o promise_n vers_fw-la 26_o 27_o 28._o second_o a_o commandment_n vers_fw-la 29._o in_o the_o promise_n note_v two_o thing_n the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v and_o the_o benefit_n promise_v the_o party_n to_o who_o be_v every_o one_o that_o overcom_v who_o christ_n describe_v by_o a_o property_n of_o sincere_a obedience_n to_o keep_v his_o work_n unto_o the_o end_n here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o description_n of_o true_a obedience_n first_o the_o form_n thereof_o consist_v in_o observe_v the_o work_n of_o christ_n which_o we_o must_v not_o understand_v of_o do_v they_o according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n but_o of_o a_o purpose_n and_o endeavour_n to_o keep_v they_o for_o this_o be_v a_o privilege_n belong_v to_o all_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n that_o god_n accept_v their_o will_n and_o endeavour_n of_o obedience_n for_o perfect_a obedience_n itself_o this_o we_o must_v know_v and_o hold_v for_o truth_n for_o many_o have_v but_o little_a knowledge_n and_o thereupon_o be_v drive_v to_o despair_v yet_o they_o must_v know_v for_o their_o comfort_n that_o if_o they_o have_v care_n to_o get_v more_o knowledge_n and_o make_v conscience_n to_o obey_v that_o which_o they_o know_v than_o they_o be_v keeper_n of_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n and_o shall_v have_v the_o reward_n promise_v second_o obedience_n be_v here_o describe_v by_o the_o object_n or_o matter_n thereof_o to_o wit_n the_o work_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v all_o such_o work_n as_o christ_n have_v ordain_v in_o his_o word_n and_o those_o whereof_o he_o be_v the_o author_n by_o his_o spirit_n in_o his_o member_n use_n hereby_o we_o learn_v first_o that_o he_o that_o will_v obey_v god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n must_v not_o think_v his_o own_o thought_n speak_v his_o own_o word_n nor_o do_v his_o own_o deed_n but_o he_o must_v think_v speak_v &_o do_v that_o which_o christ_n will_v have_v he_o second_o that_o no_o work_n be_v or_o can_v be_v acceptable_a to_o christ_n but_o that_o which_o be_v ordain_v by_o he_o isaiah_n 29.13_o complain_v of_o they_o that_o will_v teach_v the_o fear_n of_o god_n by_o man_n commandment_n so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a fear_n of_o god_n but_o that_o which_o be_v teach_v by_o god_n commandment_n and_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o all_o other_o our_o obedience_n this_o rule_n overthrow_v all_o other_o religion_n beside_o the_o true_a religion_n as_o of_o the_o jew_n turk_n and_o papist_n for_o almost_o all_o their_o work_n be_v of_o man_n invent_v and_o be_v never_o ordain_v by_o christ_n such_o be_v most_o point_n in_o popery_n as_o say_v of_o mass_n go_v on_o pilgrimage_n fasting_n vow_v and_o pray_v to_o saint_n etc._n etc._n three_o whereas_o he_o â—aith_v my_o work_n mean_v not_o one_o or_o two_o but_o all_o his_o work_n we_o learn_v that_o true_a obedience_n consist_v in_o do_v all_o the_o work_n of_o christ_n for_o christ_n and_o the_o devil_n will_v never_o part_v stake_n god_n must_v either_o have_v all_o our_o work_n or_o none_o and_o therefore_o david_n say_v i_o shall_v not_o be_v confound_v because_o 119.6_o i_o have_v respect_n unto_o all_o thy_o commandment_n and_o good_a king_n josiaâ—_n be_v commâ—nded_v for_o that_o he_o turn_v to_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o 25_o all_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n this_o point_n must_v be_v learn_v of_o all_o for_o many_o think_v if_o they_o do_v many_o good_a thing_n with_o 20_o herod_n all_o be_v well_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n many_o a_o man_n abhor_v covetousness_n and_o pride_n and_o yet_o be_v a_o contemner_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o true_a obedience_n must_v be_v in_o all_o thing_n unto_o the_o end_n here_o be_v the_o four_o branch_n of_o true_a obedience_n it_o be_v constant_a that_o obedience_n which_o christ_n will_v reward_v must_v not_o be_v for_o a_o day_n or_o a_o year_n but_o from_o time_n to_o time_n through_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o day_n and_o thus_o we_o must_v judge_v of_o obedience_n not_o by_o some_o particular_a action_n but_o by_o the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o a_o man_n life_n put_v case_n a_o man_n have_v make_v conscience_n of_o all_o his_o way_n through_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o his_o life_n and_o yet_o in_o sickness_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o extremity_n thereof_o be_v distract_v and_o rave_v blaspheme_v god_n and_o so_o die_v what_o must_v we_o judge_v of_o this_o man_n sure_o we_o must_v not_o censure_v he_o by_o his_o behaviour_n in_o his_o sickness_n but_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v thâ—â—enour_n of_o his_o life_n if_o that_o have_v be_v upright_o than_o his_o obedience_n be_v good_a and_o shall_v be_v reward_v ii_o point_n the_o benefit_n promise_v and_o they_o be_v two_o the_o first_o be_v power_n to_o rule_n verse_n 27._o 27._o and_o he_o shall_v rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n and_o as_o the_o vessel_n of_o a_o potter_n shall_v they_o be_v break_v even_o as_o i_o receive_v of_o my_o father_n the_o second_o be_v the_o morning_n star_n verse_n 28._o where_o note_v by_o the_o way_n that_o these_o word_n even_o as_o i_o have_v receive_v of_o my_o father_n be_v refer_v amiss_o in_o our_o english_a translation_n to_o the_o give_v of_o the_o morning_n star_n when_o as_o they_o proper_o belong_v to_o the_o former_a word_n in_o this_o sense_n as_o i_o have_v receive_v power_n over_o nation_n of_o my_o father_n so_o will_v i_o give_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v power_n to_o rule_v with_o the_o rod_n of_o iron_n etc._n etc._n now_o come_v to_o the_o benefit_n first_o here_o be_v promise_v by_o christ_n a_o power_n to_o rule_v over_o nation_n christâ—_n power_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n be_v very_o great_a and_o here_o it_o be_v set_v forth_o by_o three_o argument_n borrow_v from_o the_o second_o psalm_n verse_n 8.9_o first_o by_o the_o largeness_n of_o it_o iâ—_n reach_v not_o to_o one_o country_n alone_o but_o to_o all_o country_n and_o to_o all_o man_n in_o all_o nation_n second_o by_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o it_o christ_n power_n be_v absolute_a in_o rule_v and_o overrule_a and_o this_o his_o sovereignty_n consist_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o make_v law_n unto_o the_o conscience_n of_o man_n so_o as_o if_o they_o be_v not_o keep_v he_o may_v just_o condemn_v they_o and_o in_o overrule_a the_o will_n of_o all_o man_n conform_v they_o to_o his_o will_n will_v they_o will_v they_o which_o be_v signify_v by_o this_o he_o shall_v rule_v rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n second_o in_o that_o he_o have_v this_o absolute_a power_n in_o himself_o to_o save_v and_o to_o destroy_v and_o therefore_o be_v say_v to_o have_v 1.18_o the_o key_n of_o heaven_n and_o hell_n which_o be_v signify_v in_o the_o next_o word_n and_o as_o the_o vessel_n of_o a_o potter_n shall_v they_o be_v break_v three_o by_o the_o fountain_n of_o it_o christ_n receive_v this_o power_n from_o his_o father_n indeed_o as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v equal_a with_o his_o father_n and_o have_v this_o power_n of_o himself_o but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n his_o power_n be_v give_v he_o of_o his_o father_n mat._n 28.18_o for_o the_o better_a
holy_a ghost_n but_o by_o christ_n it_o be_v manifest_a that_o none_o can_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n but_o by_o christ._n and_o here_o the_o same_o be_v verify_v touch_v fellowship_n with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n especial_o for_o the_o obtain_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o concern_v eternal_a life_n this_o serve_v for_o our_o special_a instruction_n for_o among_o the_o papist_n there_o be_v many_o that_o have_v worthy_a and_o excellent_a gift_n of_o god_n as_o knowledge_n memory_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o in_o they_o be_v want_v the_o special_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o faith_n which_o justify_v &_o regeneration_n for_o touch_v assurance_n of_o these_o in_o themselves_o they_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v ignorant_a and_o whence_o come_v this_o but_o only_o from_o their_o want_n of_o christ_n for_o the_o christ_n of_o the_o papist_n as_o they_o teach_v he_o be_v a_o idol_n christ_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v not_o to_o marvel_v though_o we_o see_v the_o most_o learned_a among_o they_o to_o scoff_n and_o mock_v at_o our_o doctrine_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n &_o certainty_n of_o election_n second_o we_o have_v many_o among_o we_o that_o will_v say_v they_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o christ_n &_o to_o have_v their_o sin_n pardon_v by_o he_o and_o yet_o you_o shall_v perceive_v in_o they_o no_o grace_n of_o knowledge_n or_o conscience_n of_o true_a obedience_n but_o these_o thing_n can_v stand_v together_o to_o wit_n looseness_n of_o life_n and_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n &_o therefore_o these_o man_n deceive_v themselves_o for_o if_o they_o have_v christ_n they_o shall_v have_v his_o spirit_n and_o the_o grace_n thereof_o purge_v their_o heart_n for_o christ_n and_o his_o spirit_n be_v never_o sever_v he_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n work_v in_o he_o faith_n &_o good_a conscience_n have_v a_o infallible_a token_n that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v he_o this_o must_v admonish_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o 〈◊〉_d union_n with_o christ_n jesus_n our_o head_n to_o become_v flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n &_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n that_o in_o he_o we_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o till_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n we_o shall_v never_o have_v the_o grace_n of_o salvation_n wrought_v effectual_o in_o our_o heart_n the_o second_o royalty_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o he_o have_v the_o seven_o star_n that_o be_v the_o seven_o pastor_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n they_o be_v call_v star_n because_o in_o their_o ministry_n they_o enlighten_v man_n in_o the_o way_n that_o lead_v unto_o life_n and_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v they_o because_o he_o be_v a_o sovereign_a lord_n over_o they_o &_o they_o be_v his_o servant_n for_o he_o appoint_v that_o person_n that_o shall_v be_v his_o minister_n among_o man_n he_o give_v he_o gift_n meet_v for_o his_o call_n he_o prescribe_v also_o unto_o he_o his_o office_n and_o duty_n but_o the_o pastor_n of_o church_n will_n some_o say_v be_v make_v by_o the_o church_n answ._n the_o right_a of_o ordain_v pastor_n belong_v to_o christ_n as_o his_o royalty_n the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o testify_v ratify_v &_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o approve_v of_o they_o who_o christ_n make_v and_o endue_v with_o gift_n and_o for_o that_o cause_n be_v the_o church_n say_v to_o call_v and_o ordain_v minister_n the_o end_n why_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o have_v sovereignty_n over_o the_o minister_n be_v to_o strike_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n with_o conscience_n of_o his_o former_a negligence_n &_o to_o stir_v he_o up_o to_o diligence_n and_o carefulness_n in_o his_o place_n and_o indeed_o the_o consideration_n of_o christ_n sovereignty_n over_o they_o be_v a_o excellent_a motive_n to_o stir_v up_o all_o minister_n to_o be_v diligent_a in_o their_o place_n and_o so_o likewise_o all_o christian_n for_o consider_v that_o they_o be_v christ_n and_o the_o gift_n they_o have_v come_v from_o he_o this_o must_v move_v they_o to_o make_v conscience_n of_o all_o good_a duty_n for_o be_v christ_n they_o must_v give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o christ_n who_o they_o be_v if_o he_o will_v have_v we_o live_v we_o must_v be_v thankful_a because_o he_o be_v lord_n of_o life_n if_o our_o death_n will_v glorify_v he_o we_o must_v be_v content_a because_o we_o be_v his_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o preface_n the_o matter_n of_o this_o epistle_n contain_v two_o part_n a_o reproof_n of_o a_o vice_n with_o the_o remedy_n thereof_o vers._n 1.2.3_o and_o a_o praise_n or_o commendation_n vers_fw-la 4._o the_o reproof_n in_o these_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v i_o know_v all_o thy_o work_n they_o be_v all_o manifest_a unto_o i_o and_o i_o mislike_v of_o they_o so_o must_v these_o word_n be_v understand_v in_o this_o place_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o reproof_n in_o the_o word_n follow_v thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o thou_o be_v dead_a wherein_o be_v set_v down_o the_o fault_n of_o this_o church_n namely_o hypocrisy_n for_o that_o they_o pretend_v christian_n religion_n in_o outward_a profession_n but_o yet_o want_v the_o life_n of_o christianity_n &_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n for_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o reason_n be_v this_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v that_o be_v church_n round_o about_o thou_o judge_v and_o speak_v of_o thou_o as_o of_o a_o church_n that_o be_v bear_v anew_o in_o christ_n and_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o spirit_n for_o by_o life_n we_o must_v understand_v spiritual_a life_n not_o corporal_a but_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o thou_o be_v dead_a that_o be_v thou_o want_v true_a spiritual_a life_n by_o regeneration_n and_o be_v indeed_o dead_a in_o thy_o sin_n this_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o sharp_a reproof_n that_o which_o be_v here_o say_v of_o this_o church_n of_o sardis_n may_v be_v true_o verify_v of_o diverse_a church_n in_o this_o age_n as_o first_o of_o the_o great_a church_n of_o rome_n who_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o pope_n as_o by_o their_o head_n that_o church_n have_v a_o name_n to_o be_v alive_a &_o in_o their_o own_o pretence_n it_o be_v the_o only_a true_a church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n but_o in_o truth_n and_o before_o god_n it_o be_v dead_a some_o say_v it_o be_v as_o a_o body_n full_a of_o disease_n and_o who_o throat_n be_v cut_v but_o yet_o the_o heart_n pant_v &_o life_n remain_v therein_o but_o we_o may_v say_v it_o have_v no_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a life_n but_o lie_v stark_o dead_a as_o a_o carcase_n in_o the_o grave_n the_o reason_n that_o some_o allege_v for_o it_o be_v of_o small_a moment_n first_o they_o say_v it_o have_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n which_o be_v a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o therefore_o it_o have_v some_o life_n ans._n first_o baptism_n be_v not_o always_o a_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n for_o circumcision_n in_o who_o stead_n come_v baptism_n be_v a_o sacrament_n use_v of_o the_o samaritan_n when_o they_o be_v 1.9_o no_o people_n of_o god_n and_o so_o no_o church_n of_o god_n again_o baptism_n without_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v no_o infallible_a sign_n of_o a_o church_n it_o be_v but_o a_o seal_n pull_v from_o the_o writing_n or_o set_v to_o a_o bare_a paper_n to_o no_o use_n and_o further_o outward_a baptism_n without_o inward_a baptism_n be_v no_o note_n of_o a_o church_n but_o such_o be_v baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n it_o have_v not_o inward_a baptism_n join_v unto_o it_o neither_o the_o true_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n for_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o teach_v be_v a_o quite_o overturning_a of_o christ_n and_o his_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o outward_a baptism_n may_v be_v where_o there_o be_v no_o church_n second_o i_o answer_v that_o baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o sacrament_n not_o to_o their_o synagogue_n but_o to_o the_o hide_a church_n of_o god_n among_o they_o for_o god_n have_v his_o church_n among_o they_o even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o popery_n there_o be_v always_o some_o among_o they_o that_o renounce_v their_o religion_n who_o god_n call_v home_o unto_o himself_o by_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v among_o they_o as_o the_o use_n of_o this_o sacrament_n the_o apostle_n creed_n and_o of_o other_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n for_o as_o god_n say_v to_o elias_n in_o ahab_n time_n 19.18_o i_o have_v reserve_v seven_o thousand_o that_o never_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o baal_n so_o may_v it_o be_v say_v of_o many_o among_o the_o papist_n god_n have_v there_o his_o secret_a church_n who_o never_o yield_v to_o the_o pope_n government_n
scripture_n speak_v of_o god_n usual_o before_o the_o old_a world_n be_v destroy_v it_o be_v say_v the_o â—_o lord_n see_v that_o the_o wickedness_n of_o man_n be_v great_a upon_o the_o earth_n as_o if_o he_o have_v look_v from_o heaven_n upon_o the_o earth_n and_o behold_v that_o it_o be_v corrupt_a speak_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n to_o signify_v that_o search_n which_o he_o make_v into_o man_n action_n and_o so_o he_o be_v say_v to_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n at_o the_o build_n of_o babel_n gen._n 11._o and_o before_o he_o destroy_v sodom_n and_o gomorrha_n 2d_o he_o come_v down_o to_o see_v whether_o they_o have_v do_v according_a to_o that_o cry_n which_o be_v come_v up_o to_o he_o and_o so_o before_o the_o lord_n punish_v the_o wickedness_n of_o the_o israelit_n 12_o he_o make_v a_o search_n into_o their_o waiâ—â—_n and_o the_o second_o commandment_n be_v this_o god_n will_v visit_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n that_o be_v he_o will_v make_v a_o search_n whether_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o father_n be_v among_o the_o child_n and_o if_o they_o be_v he_o will_v punish_v they_o see_v christ_n make_v this_o search_n into_o all_o man_n action_n use_n we_o be_v teach_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o have_v care_n to_o conform_v our_o self_n to_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n and_o to_o set_v ourselves_o to_o the_o do_v of_o all_o good_a duty_n according_a to_o his_o word_n if_o we_o know_v a_o magistrate_n will_v come_v to_o make_v search_n in_o our_o house_n we_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o set_v all_o thing_n in_o order_n against_o he_o come_v shall_v we_o be_v thus_o circumspect_a to_o prepare_v for_o the_o come_n of_o a_o earthly_a man_n &_o shall_v we_o not_o much_o more_o prepare_v ourselves_o against_o the_o search_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n the_o everliving_a god_n from_o who_o nothing_o can_v be_v hide_v i_o have_v not_o find_v thy_o work_n perfect_a work_n be_v perfect_a two_o way_n by_o the_o law_n or_o by_o the_o gospel_n by_o the_o law_n when_o in_o our_o work_n we_o do_v all_o that_o the_o law_n require_v and_o thus_o be_v no_o man_n work_n perfect_a in_o this_o life_n by_o the_o gospel_n our_o work_n be_v perfect_a when_o they_o proceed_v from_o a_o believe_a hart_n that_o have_v a_o care_n to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n &_o these_o work_n be_v perfect_a not_o in_o themselves_o but_o in_o the_o acceptation_n of_o christ._n here_o by_o perfect_a work_n christ_n mean_v not_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o law_n but_o of_o the_o gospel_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o have_v search_v into_o your_o way_n you_o do_v many_o work_n in_o show_n but_o they_o proceed_v not_o from_o sincere_a faith_n nor_o from_o a_o heart_n that_o have_v care_n to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o his_o commandment_n and_o a_o full_a purpose_n not_o to_o sin_v against_o he_o you_o have_v a_o show_n of_o godliness_n but_o you_o want_v the_o power_n thereof_o here_o observe_v that_o christ_n condemn_v this_o church_n not_o because_o their_o work_n be_v not_o outwardlye_o conformable_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n but_o because_o they_o proceed_v not_o from_o a_o believe_a hart_n that_o have_v a_o full_a purpose_n to_o forsake_v all_o sin_n and_o to_o please_v god_n in_o all_o thing_n we_o therefore_o must_v take_v heed_n of_o all_o hypocrisy_n by_o the_o example_n of_o this_o church_n use_n and_o labour_n to_o be_v of_o david_n mind_n and_o pray_v with_o he_o â—0_n that_o our_o heart_n may_v be_v upright_o in_o the_o statute_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o may_v say_v with_o hezekias_n 38.3_o behold_v lord_n how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o with_o a_o upright_o mind_n for_o this_o be_v a_o notable_a token_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o infallible_a badge_n of_o he_o that_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n before_o god_n some_o may_v say_v christ_n here_o distinguish_v himself_o from_o god_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v not_o god_n answer_v by_o god_n in_o this_o place_n we_o must_v understand_v not_o god_n simple_o but_o god_n the_o father_n for_o christ_n here_o speak_v of_o himself_o not_o as_o he_o be_v god_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n god_n &_o man_n in_o which_o respect_n even_o as_o he_o be_v now_o glorify_v he_o be_v inferior_a unto_o his_o father_n where_o note_n that_o christ_n be_v now_o glorify_v in_o heaven_n carry_v himself_o as_o mediator_n whence_o we_o gather_v that_o we_o may_v lawful_o and_o without_o presumption_n pray_v unto_o christ_n without_o the_o mean_n or_o intercession_n of_o saint_n or_o angel_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n deny_v this_o and_o say_v because_o christ_n be_v now_o in_o full_a glory_n in_o heaven_n therefore_o we_o must_v use_v unto_o he_o the_o mediation_n of_o saint_n but_o christ_n be_v now_o in_o heaven_n mark_v our_o work_n in_o particular_a and_o therefore_o we_o may_v without_o presumption_n come_v unto_o he_o by_o prayer_n vers._n 3._o remember_v therefore_o how_o thou_o have_v receive_v and_o hear_v and_o hold_v fast_o and_o repent_v if_o therefore_o thou_o will_v not_o watch_v i_o will_v come_v on_o thou_o as_o a_o thief_n and_o thou_o shall_v not_o know_v what_o hour_n i_o will_v come_v upon_o thou_o when_o christ_n have_v reprove_v they_o for_o their_o sin_n of_o hypocrisy_n and_o prescribe_v they_o a_o remedy_n with_o a_o reason_n thereof_o he_o do_v as_o a_o good_a physician_n &_o pastor_n show_v they_o the_o way_n how_o they_o may_v practice_v that_o remedy_n for_o they_o may_v say_v we_o be_v command_v to_o watch_v and_o to_o renew_v our_o decay_a grace_n but_o how_o shall_v we_o do_v this_o christ_n answer_v by_o do_v three_o thing_n i._o by_o remember_v that_o which_o thou_o have_v receive_v by_o hear_v ii_o by_o hold_v fast_o iii_o by_o repent_v of_o thy_o sin_n for_o the_o first_o remember_v therefore_o that_o be_v call_v to_o mind_v the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n which_o thou_o have_v be_v teach_v by_o my_o apostle_n this_o remembrance_n be_v a_o most_o excellent_a mean_n to_o move_v a_o man_n to_o subjection_n to_o god_n will_v to_o repent_v and_o to_o practice_v all_o good_a grace_n when_o david_n see_v the_o prosperity_n of_o the_o wicked_a his_o fect_n have_v almosâ—_n step_n but_o his_o remedy_n against_o that_o temptation_n be_v his_o 73.17_o go_v to_o god_n sanctuary_n and_o there_o call_v to_o mind_n the_o end_n of_o those_o man_n again_o â—â—_o i_o have_v remember_v thy_o name_n oh_o lord_n in_o the_o night_n and_o have_v keep_v thy_o law_n peter_n deny_v his_o master_n when_o he_o forget_v his_o word_n but_o when_o he_o be_v put_v in_o mind_n thereof_o by_o the_o look_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o crow_n of_o a_o cock_n he_o then_o repent_v and_o weep_v bitter_o luk._n 22.61.62_o sin_n commit_v by_o man_n of_o ignorance_n be_v many_o and_o grievous_a and_o therefore_o all_o sin_n be_v call_v ignorances_n heb._n 9_o 7._o but_o if_o man_n will_v by_o faith_n keep_v in_o mind_n the_o word_n of_o god_n it_o will_v be_v a_o notable_a mean_n to_o keep_v they_o from_o sin_v here_o than_o we_o have_v a_o sovereign_a remedy_n against_o sin_n namely_o use_n wheresoever_o we_o be_v or_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v we_o must_v call_v to_o mind_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n and_o those_o will_v be_v a_o lantern_n unto_o our_o step_n and_o a_o light_n unto_o our_o path_n the_o devil_n labour_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o bring_v we_o to_o forget_v the_o word_n for_o than_o he_o know_v he_o can_v easy_o draw_v we_o into_o any_o sin_n quest._n how_o shall_v we_o keep_v in_o mind_n the_o word_n and_o promise_n of_o god_n answ._n that_o be_v a_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o attain_v unto_o it_o we_o must_v first_o labour_n to_o have_v our_o heart_n affect_v with_o the_o love_n of_o god_n word_n and_o promise_n for_o a_o man_n can_v never_o keep_v in_o mind_n that_o whereof_o he_o have_v no_o like_n second_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o believe_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o faith_n give_v it_o root_a in_o our_o heart_n colos._n 2.7_o the_o cause_n why_o there_o be_v so_o little_a remember_v of_o that_o which_o be_v teach_v be_v for_o that_o it_o be_v not_o mix_v with_o faith_n in_o those_o that_o hear_v it_o again_o the_o thing_n to_o be_v remember_v be_v how_o thou_o have_v receive_v and_o hear_v that_o be_v look_v what_o doctrine_n thou_o have_v receive_v by_o hear_v and_o that_o remember_v where_o we_o see_v christ_n join_v receive_v and_o hear_v together_o whence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o â—â—aching_v and_o receive_v of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o hear_v be_v the_o prescribe_v general_a mean_n whereby_o god_n reveal_v his_o will_n counsel_n and_o purpose_n touch_v the_o salvation_n
of_o god_n so_o that_o here_o these_o few_o have_v a_o promise_n to_o be_v free_v from_o all_o want_n and_o to_o live_v with_o christ_n in_o all_o glory_n joy_n and_o pleasure_n this_o benefit_n have_v be_v in_o effect_n further_o urge_v in_o the_o former_a chapter_n here_o only_o i_o will_v note_v one_o doctrine_n namely_o that_o they_o which_o live_v in_o the_o world_n among_o the_o wicked_a and_o do_v not_o communicate_v with_o their_o sin_n shall_v not_o partake_v with_o they_o in_o their_o punishment_n for_o the_o body_n of_o this_o church_n must_v have_v christ_n to_o come_v amongst_o they_o as_o a_o thief_n but_o the_o godly_a must_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a in_o glory_n 19_o lot_z be_v free_v from_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o sodomite_n because_o he_o partake_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o among_o the_o israelite_n 9.6_o those_o that_o mourn_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o people_n be_v mark_v in_o the_o forehead_n that_o when_o judgement_n come_v upon_o the_o wicked_a they_o may_v be_v spare_v this_o point_n must_v be_v remember_v for_o by_o reason_n of_o long_a peace_n and_o prosperity_n among_o we_o many_o sin_n abound_v as_o ignorance_n atheism_n contempt_n of_o religion_n and_o profane_v of_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n with_o innumerable_a sin_n of_o the_o second_o table_n all_o which_o call_v for_o judgement_n from_o heaven_n and_o no_o doubt_n they_o will_v be_v punish_v partly_o in_o this_o life_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v unless_o our_o people_n do_v repent_v those_o therefore_o that_o will_v not_o partake_v of_o the_o common_a judgement_n that_o be_v to_o come_v must_v now_o beware_v that_o they_o communicate_v not_o with_o the_o common_a sin_n that_o dâ—e_v abound_v and_o see_v that_o they_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n have_v their_o righteous_a and_o zealous_a heart_n grieve_v for_o the_o abomination_n among_o which_o they_o live_v after_o the_o promise_n be_v adjoin_v the_o reason_n thereof_o for_o they_o be_v worthy_a hence_o the_o church_n of_o room_n do_v conclude_v that_o a_o man_n by_o his_o work_n may_v merit_v heaven_n because_o they_o be_v worthy_a of_o reward_n a_o most_o blasphemous_a conclusion_n and_o a_o manifest_a abuse_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god._n god_n child_n indeed_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a but_o not_o by_o the_o merit_n of_o their_o work_n worthiness_n for_o than_o they_o shall_v be_v do_v according_a to_o the_o rigour_n of_o the_o law_n but_o for_o the_o worthiness_n of_o their_o person_n when_o as_o they_o stand_v righteous_a before_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o when_o god_n will_v save_v any_o man_n he_o give_v christ_n unto_o that_o man_n true_o and_o real_o so_o as_o he_o may_v say_v christ_n be_v i_o and_o with_o christ_n god_n give_v his_o spirit_n which_o work_v in_o his_o heart_n true_a save_v faith_n whereby_o he_o do_v receive_v christ_n and_o so_o christ_n and_o his_o righteousness_n belong_v unto_o that_o man_n reallye_o and_o by_o virtue_n thereof_o he_o be_v worthy_a life_n everlasting_a and_o this_o be_v the_o worthiness_n which_o christ_n mean_v in_o this_o place_n and_o not_o any_o worthiness_n of_o their_o work_n so_o that_o this_o do_v help_v they_o nothing_o at_o all_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v the_o most_o probable_a place_n of_o scripture_n to_o prove_v and_o justify_v the_o doctrine_n of_o man_n merit_n vers._n 5._o he_o that_o overcom_v shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n but_o i_o will_v confess_v his_o name_n before_o my_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angel_n vers._n 6._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n here_o be_v the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n and_o it_o contain_v two_o part_n a_o promise_n and_o a_o commandment_n the_o promise_n in_o the_o five_o verse_n and_o the_o commandment_n in_o the_o six_o in_o the_o promise_n note_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v to_o he_o that_o overcom_v whereof_o we_o have_v speak_v 2.7_o before_o second_o the_o thing_n promise_v to_o wit_n glory_n and_o eternal_a happiness_n which_o be_v express_v three_o way_n first_o thus_o he_o shall_v be_v clothe_v in_o white_a array_n that_o be_v he_o shall_v have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o happiness_n so_o much_o be_v signify_v by_o white_a â—ayment_n as_o we_o have_v already_o show_v hence_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n conclude_v that_o a_o man_n may_v do_v good_a work_n respect_v a_o reward_n use_n answer_n in_o some_o sort_n it_o be_v true_a for_o so_o it_o be_v record_v of_o moses_n hebr._n 11.26_o he_o have_v respect_n to_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n but_o yet_o the_o recompense_n of_o reward_n must_v not_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o our_o good_a work_n for_o chief_o we_o must_v thereby_o intend_v to_o testify_v our_o faith_n and_o our_o obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o with_o that_o we_o may_v have_v respect_n to_o everlasting_a life_n the_o second_o thing_n promise_v and_o i_o will_v not_o put_v out_o his_o name_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n for_o the_o understanding_n of_o this_o two_o question_n must_v be_v scan_v first_o what_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v second_o whether_o a_o man_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o of_o this_o book_n for_o the_o first_o this_o book_n of_o life_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o god_n predestination_n or_o eternal_a decree_n of_o election_n whereby_o he_o have_v choose_v some_o man_n unto_o salvation_n upon_o his_o good_a pleasure_n and_o this_o be_v call_v a_o book_n because_o it_o be_v like_a unto_o a_o book_n for_o as_o the_o general_n in_o a_o camp_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o his_o soldier_n that_o fight_v under_o he_o in_o a_o book_n and_o as_o the_o magistrate_n of_o a_o town_n have_v the_o name_n of_o every_o free_a man_n and_o denison_n inâ—owled_v so_o god_n in_o the_o book_n of_o his_o election_n have_v the_o name_n of_o all_o that_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o the_o second_o question_n a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n two_o way_n either_o true_o before_o god_n or_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n only_o those_o who_o name_n be_v true_o before_o god_n write_v in_o this_o book_n can_v be_v blot_v out_o for_o god_n counsel_n touch_v the_o eternal_a state_n of_o every_o man_n be_v unchangeable_a this_o the_o golden_a chain_n of_o god_n decree_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o who_o he_o have_v predestinate_a 8.30_o they_o he_o have_v call_v and_o who_o he_o call_v they_o also_o he_o justify_v and_o who_o he_o justify_v they_o he_o also_o glorify_v other_o there_o be_v that_o have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o this_o book_n only_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o thus_o be_v all_o man_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n that_o profess_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n for_o so_o charity_n bind_v we_o to_o judge_v of_o they_o and_o these_o may_v have_v their_o name_n blot_v out_o in_o this_o sense_n do_v the_o scripture_n often_o speak_v as_o when_o the_o prophet_n wish_v 69.28_o that_o god_n will_v blot_v his_o enemy_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n meaning_n judas_n principal_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v make_v manifest_a his_o name_n be_v never_o write_v therein_o this_o then_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o this_o promise_n that_o they_o who_o do_v avoid_v the_o occasion_n of_o sin_n and_o have_v care_n to_o keep_v faith_n and_o good_a conscience_n unto_o the_o end_n have_v their_o name_n write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v blot_v out_o hence_o i_o gather_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o number_n of_o the_o elect_a in_o respect_n of_o god_n be_v certain_a for_o the_o name_n of_o those_o which_o be_v to_o be_v save_v be_v as_o it_o be_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o be_v once_o write_v in_o they_o remain_v there_o for_o ever_o some_o do_v teach_v that_o all_o may_v be_v save_v if_o they_o will_v but_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a fancy_n of_o man_n for_o what_o shall_v thâ—â—e_v need_n any_o book_n of_o life_n if_o that_o be_v so_o second_o hence_o i_o gather_v that_o this_o number_n can_v neither_o increase_v nor_o be_v diminish_v let_v man_n do_v whaâ—_n they_o can_v if_o they_o have_v be_v of_o we_o they_o will_v have_v continue_v with_o us._n 1._o joh._n 2.19_o all_o that_o thou_o have_v give_v i_o have_v i_o keep_v and_o none_o of_o they_o be_v lose_v joh._n 17.12_o whereas_o a_o man_n may_v be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n to_o wit_n use_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o man_n and_o yet_o be_v blot_v out_o hereby_o we_o be_v to_o be_v admonish_v to_o look_v
yea_o he_o be_v holy_a in_o regard_n of_o man_n in_o a_o further_a respect_n namely_o as_o the_o root_n of_o all_o man_n holiness_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n for_o look_v as_o from_o adam_n be_v actual_o convey_v original_a sin_n to_o every_o one_o of_o his_o posterity_n that_o come_v by_o natural_a generation_n so_o from_o christ_n be_v righteousness_n and_o holiness_n convey_v to_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v call_v 3â—_n our_o righteousness_n and_o sanctification_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n especial_o be_v christ_n say_v to_o be_v holy_a in_o this_o place_n use_n whereas_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v holy_a not_o only_o in_o himself_o but_o for_o we_o here_o we_o must_v mark_v what_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n in_o christian_a religion_n namely_o to_o have_v care_n to_o be_v ingraff_v into_o christ_n that_o from_o he_o we_o may_v receive_v grace_n to_o become_v new_a creature_n and_o feel_v in_o we_o his_o power_n to_o kill_v our_o corruption_n and_o daily_o to_o renew_v his_o own_o image_n in_o we_o in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n and_o that_o as_o true_o as_o we_o feel_v in_o we_o adam_n corruption_n it_o be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o we_o to_o plead_v that_o christ_n will_v be_v our_o saviour_n and_o will_v free_v we_o from_o all_o sin_n but_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o have_v christ_n convey_v holiness_n into_o we_o and_o that_o as_o sensible_o as_o we_o see_v the_o root_n convey_v sap_n into_o the_o branch_n and_o this_o holiness_n we_o must_v make_v to_o appear_v in_o our_o life_n as_o the_o branch_n by_o their_o fruit_n and_o leaf_n do_v show_v they_o receive_v sap_n from_o the_o root_n second_o here_o note_v christ_n propound_v himself_o unto_o we_o and_o to_o all_o church_n as_o a_o notable_a pattern_n to_o be_v follow_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o he_o must_v be_v holy_a as_o he_o be_v holy_a make_v conscience_n of_o every_o evil_a way_n for_o christ_n be_v holy_a to_o make_v we_o holy_a let_v we_o therefore_o behold_v christ_n and_o see_v wherein_o he_o express_v himself_o to_o be_v holy_a and_o therein_o let_v we_o follow_v he_o so_o john_n say_v he_o that_o have_v this_o hope_n purifi_v himself_o as_o he_o be_v holy_a that_o be_v use_v all_o good_a mean_n to_o conform_v himself_o to_o christ_n holiness_n three_o hereby_o we_o learn_v that_o the_o common_a title_n give_v to_o the_o pope_n whereby_o he_o be_v call_v holiness_n be_v a_o blasphemous_a title_n for_o to_o be_v holy_a be_v here_o make_v a_o property_n of_o christ._n and_o yet_o more_o be_v give_v to_o the_o pope_n than_o to_o christ_n in_o this_o place_n for_o he_o be_v call_v holiness_n which_o be_v a_o title_n of_o god_n alone_o the_o second_o property_n whereby_o christ_n be_v describe_v be_v truth_n christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v true_a in_o three_o regard_n first_o because_o he_o be_v without_o all_o error_n or_o ignorance_n know_v every_o thing_n as_o it_o be_v truth_n be_v in_o christ_n proper_o and_o in_o the_o creature_n only_o by_o mean_n of_o he_o second_o because_o whatsoever_o he_o will_v and_o decree_v he_o do_v it_o serious_o without_o fraud_n deceit_n change_n or_o contradiction_n as_o the_o whole_a tenure_n of_o scripture_n do_v show_v wherein_o every_o part_n be_v suitable_a and_o agreeable_a to_o another_o because_o he_o make_v good_a every_o promise_n make_v in_o his_o word_n for_o in_o he_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_n 2._o cor._n 1.20_o 〈◊〉_d whereas_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v true_a yea_o truth_n itself_o first_o we_o learn_v a_o full_a difference_n between_o he_o and_o all_o false_a wicked_a spirit_n for_o they_o be_v spirit_n of_o error_n and_o falsehood_n for_o the_o devil_n be_v the_o father_n of_o lie_n and_o the_o author_n thereof_o again_o whereas_o christ_n be_v true_a in_o all_o his_o way_n we_o ought_v without_o all_o doubt_v to_o believe_v his_o word_n and_o all_o the_o promise_n make_v therein_o that_o concern_v our_o salvation_n if_o christ_n can_v err_v or_o lie_v and_o man_n be_v deceive_v by_o he_o than_o they_o may_v just_o doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o word_n but_o see_v he_o be_v true_a in_o all_o his_o promise_n we_o must_v believe_v in_o he_o and_o in_o all_o our_o distress_n either_o of_o body_n or_o mind_n depend_v upon_o he_o for_o he_o have_v make_v a_o promise_n to_o help_v and_o he_o will_v never_o fail_v they_o that_o rest_n on_o he_o three_o in_o this_o property_n he_o propound_v himself_o a_o example_n to_o be_v follow_v of_o his_o church_n and_o of_o we_o that_o as_o christ_n be_v serious_a in_o his_o decree_n and_o constant_a in_o his_o promise_n so_o must_v we_o purpose_v every_o good_a thing_n serious_o and_o also_o make_v good_a whatsoever_o good_a thing_n we_o promise_v for_o liar_n must_v be_v destroy_v psalm_n 5._o vers._n 6._o they_o that_o love_n or_o make_v lie_n must_v never_o come_v into_o heaven_n but_o â—e_n shut_v out_o thence_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o burn_a lake_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n revel_v 22.15_o but_o it_o be_v a_o note_n of_o a_o man_n that_o be_v a_o good_a member_n of_o god_n church_n in_o this_o world_n and_o that_o shall_v be_v inheritor_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n in_o heaven_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n from_o his_o heart_n psal._n 15._o verse_n 22._o and_o lie_v be_v a_o note_n of_o the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n joh._n 8.44_o second_o christ_n be_v describe_v by_o his_o kingly_a office_n which_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n which_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v where_o first_o let_v we_o see_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n for_o which_o purpose_n we_o must_v have_v recourse_n to_o isaiah_n 22._o vers_fw-la 22_o whence_o these_o word_n be_v borrow_v be_v there_o say_v of_o eliachim_n the_o circumstance_n of_o that_o text_n will_v easy_o show_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n in_o this_o place_n shebna_n who_o have_v be_v a_o ancient_a steward_n to_o many_o of_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n be_v treasurer_n also_o unto_o king_n hezekias_n and_o because_o he_o be_v a_o hinderer_n of_o reformation_n intend_v by_o hezekias_n the_o lord_n threaten_v to_o cast_v he_o out_o of_o his_o office_n and_o further_o the_o lord_n signify_v that_o eliachim_n shall_v come_v in_o his_o room_n and_o have_v the_o same_o office_n now_o to_o express_v this_o thing_n the_o lord_n say_v the_o key_n of_o the_o house_n of_o david_n shall_v be_v lay_v upon_o his_o shoulder_n that_o be_v eliachim_n shall_v be_v make_v a_o steward_n of_o the_o house_n of_o david_n even_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o david_n whereof_o hezekias_n be_v governor_n for_o so_o the_o house_n of_o juda_n and_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n be_v often_o put_v for_o the_o whole_a kingdom_n of_o juda_n and_o israel_n and_o the_o give_v of_o a_o key_n be_v a_o ancient_a token_n of_o place_v and_o invest_v man_n in_o chief_a rule_n and_o authority_n so_o that_o the_o meaning_n of_o this_o place_n be_v this_o that_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o christ_n sovereign_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o govern_v his_o church_n quest._n but_o why_o be_v christ_n say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n for_o david_n kingdom_n be_v a_o temporal_a kingdom_n but_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n john_n 18.36_o and_o yet_o it_o be_v say_v the_o lord_n god_n shall_v give_v unto_o he_o the_o throne_n of_o his_o father_n david_n and_o he_o shall_v reign_v over_o the_o house_n of_o jacob_n luk._n 1.32.33_o answ._n christ_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n two_o way_n first_o proper_o for_o when_o he_o be_v bear_v of_o the_o bless_a virgin_n marie_n he_o be_v bear_v king_n of_o the_o jew_n by_o right_a descent_n from_o his_o father_n david_n as_o his_o genealogy_n plain_o show_v luk._n 3._o and_o also_o the_o question_n of_o the_o wise_a man_n at_o jerusalem_n say_v where_o be_v the_o king_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o be_v bear_v mat._n 2.2_o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o publican_n ask_v tribute_n of_o he_o he_o plead_v the_o privilege_n of_o a_o king_n son_n albeit_o to_o avoid_v offence_n he_o be_v content_a to_o yield_v of_o his_o right_n &_o to_o pay_v tribute_n thereby_o show_v that_o he_o have_v right_o to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o israel_n though_o he_o will_v not_o take_v it_o upon_o he_o &_o therefore_o come_v in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o the_o kingdom_n be_v take_v of_o the_o roman_a emperor_n second_o he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v the_o key_n of_o david_n kingdom_n tipical_o for_o david_n kingdom_n be_v a_o figure_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o
remain_v impenitent_a use_n whereas_o this_o censure_n be_v such_o as_o do_v exclude_v a_o man_n both_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n till_o he_o repent_v we_o may_v here_o see_v that_o this_o censure_n ought_v to_o be_v use_v with_o great_a reverence_n fear_v and_o consideration_n even_o such_o or_o great_a as_o we_o will_v use_v in_o the_o cut_n of_o a_o member_n from_o the_o body_n the_o abuse_v therefore_o of_o this_o sentence_n in_o small_a matter_n can_v but_o be_v a_o grievous_a sin_n and_o a_o breach_n of_o the_o three_o commandment_n wherein_o one_o of_o god_n most_o weighty_a ordinance_n be_v take_v in_o vain_a further_o one_o special_a degree_n of_o excommunication_n be_v anathema_n which_o be_v when_o one_o be_v pronounce_v to_o be_v condemn_v whereof_o paul_n speak_v 1._o cor._n 16.22_o but_o this_o be_v not_o pronounce_v upon_o any_o but_o on_o those_o that_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v seldom_o use_v because_o that_o sin_n be_v hardly_o discern_v consist_v not_o so_o much_o in_o the_o speech_n as_o in_o the_o malice_n of_o the_o heart_n against_o christ._n the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o spiritual_a jurisdiction_n be_v absolution_n which_o be_v when_o a_o malefactor_n upon_o his_o sufficient_a repentance_n be_v approve_v to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o yet_o here_o the_o church_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n but_o only_o declare_v upon_o his_o repentance_n what_o christ_n do_v and_o thus_o we_o see_v wherein_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n consist_v &_o what_o be_v the_o part_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n for_o the_o better_a discern_v of_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n we_o must_v remember_v four_o special_a abuse_n hereof_o that_o have_v take_v place_n in_o god_n church_n for_o many_o hundred_o year_n the_o first_o be_v this_o that_o in_o former_a age_n the_o church_n have_v give_v this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n to_o peter_n alone_o debar_v the_o same_o from_o all_o other_o even_o from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n as_o though_o they_o have_v only_o the_o use_n not_o the_o right_a of_o this_o power_n but_o the_o ease_n be_v plain_a this_o power_n belong_v to_o every_o true_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n though_o they_o be_v not_o apostle_n as_o well_o as_o it_o do_v to_o peter_n for_o in_o the_o promulgation_n of_o this_o power_n mat._n 16.19_o though_o christ_n direct_v his_o speech_n to_o peter_n yet_o he_o speak_v unto_o all_o as_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o place_n do_v plain_o show_v for_o christ_n question_n who_o say_v you_o that_o i_o be_o be_v make_v to_o all_o now_o because_o it_o will_v have_v be_v great_a disorder_n in_o that_o holy_a company_n for_o all_o of_o they_o to_o have_v speak_v therefore_o peter_n be_v both_o ancient_a and_o bold_a of_o speech_n speak_v for_o all_o and_o the_o rest_n answer_v in_o his_o person_n and_o so_o according_o christ_n speak_v to_o peter_n do_v make_v a_o grant_n of_o this_o power_n unto_o all_o his_o disciple_n in_o his_o person_n and_o therefore_o joh._n 20.23_o he_o give_v this_o power_n to_o all_o say_v plain_o whosoever_n sin_n you_o retain_v they_o be_v retain_v etc._n etc._n so_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v plain_a in_o this_o point_n to_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n of_o any_o that_o be_v not_o wilful_o addict_v to_o the_o popish_a religion_n quest._n whence_o have_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n this_o power_n answ._n by_o succession_n from_o the_o apostle_n for_o christ_n say_v mat._n 28.19.20_o go_v and_o preach_v i_o will_v be_v with_o you_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n where_o he_o can_v mean_v the_o apostle_n only_o but_o with_o they_o all_o minister_n that_o do_v preach_v and_o baptise_v after_o they_o make_v this_o promise_n to_o the_o apostle_n not_o as_o they_o be_v apostle_n but_o as_o they_o be_v minister_n and_o preacher_n of_o his_o gospel_n the_o second_o abuse_n be_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v turn_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n into_o a_o supremacy_n over_o the_o church_n make_v it_o to_o be_v a_o sovereign_a authority_n whereby_o peter_n and_o his_o successor_n the_o pope_n have_v liberty_n to_o make_v law_n canon_n &_o constitution_n which_o bind_v the_o conscience_n as_o also_o to_o make_v king_n and_o to_o depose_v the_o same_o a_o most_o notorious_a abuse_n of_o this_o power_n which_o be_v no_o superiority_n but_o a_o ministry_n the_o chief_a power_n whereof_o consist_v in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n &_o will_v of_o christ._n for_o christ_n say_v not_o to_o peter_n i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o man_n but_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o three_o abuse_v hereof_o be_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v thereby_o for_o a_o 1000_o year_n almost_o bar_a king_n queen_n and_o emperor_n from_o be_v governor_n over_o the_o church_n of_o god_n a_o error_n flat_a against_o scripture_n for_o when_o as_o good_a king_n josias_n intend_v the_o reformation_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o abandon_v of_o idolatry_n he_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o same_o &_o be_v say_v 34.32_o to_o have_v cause_v all_o that_o be_v find_v in_o jerusalem_n and_o benjamin_n to_o stand_v to_o the_o covenant_n which_o he_o make_v now_o shall_v we_o say_v josias_n do_v evil_a in_o cause_v they_o so_o to_o do_v god_n forbid_v it_o be_v record_v of_o he_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o his_o commendation_n object_n but_o god_n pastor_n &_o teacher_n have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n and_o prince_n have_v not_o ans._n true_a but_o yet_o they_o have_v a_o civil_a power_n whereby_o they_o rule_v over_o god_n church_n for_o there_o be_v a_o civil_a power_n &_o a_o spiritual_a power_n prince_n rule_v not_o by_o any_o spiritual_a power_n but_o civil_o &_o thereby_o they_o have_v power_n to_o compel_v all_o their_o subject_n to_o the_o outward_a mean_n of_o god_n worship_n &_o to_o forsake_v idolatry_n and_o may_v also_o punish_v those_o that_o obey_v they_o not_o object_n by_o this_o power_n of_o the_o key_n king_n and_o queen_n be_v bring_v under_o pastor_n answ._n in_o pastor_n and_o minister_n we_o must_v consider_v their_o person_n and_o good_n &_o their_o office_n and_o word_n which_o they_o bring_v prince_n be_v over_o their_o person_n and_o good_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v under_o their_o word_n &_o ministry_n because_o therein_o they_o stand_v in_o christ_n stead_n yet_o all_o this_o show_v nothing_o why_o prince_n in_o god_n church_n shall_v be_v so_o rob_v of_o their_o right_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n do_v the_o four_o abuse_n be_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o some_o 800._o year_n have_v turn_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n unto_o the_o priest_n in_o their_o sacrament_n of_o penance_n for_o whereas_o by_o god_n word_n the_o minister_n power_n be_v only_o to_o pronounce_v the_o absolution_n of_o christ_n with_o they_o every_o priest_n sit_v as_o a_o judge_n and_o all_o the_o people_n come_v unto_o he_o as_o to_o a_o judge_n make_v know_v unto_o he_o all_o their_o thought_n word_n and_o deed_n as_o near_o as_o they_o can_v wherein_o they_o have_v break_v any_o commandment_n which_o do_v the_o priest_n enjoin_v he_o to_o bewail_v his_o sin_n and_o after_o contrition_n do_v proper_o give_v sentence_n of_o pardon_n even_o as_o christ_n himself_o do_v and_o then_o after_o appoint_v he_o work_n of_o satisfaction_n to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o temporal_a punishment_n of_o his_o sin_n which_o do_v his_o sin_n be_v pardon_v in_o heaven_n where_o behold_v a_o most_o devilish_a practice_n as_o may_v appear_v by_o the_o manifold_a error_n contain_v therein_o as_o first_o the_o confession_n of_o all_o a_o man_n sin_n which_o have_v no_o warrant_n in_o god_n word_n second_o that_o the_o priest_n shall_v give_v sentence_n of_o pardon_n be_v a_o most_o notorious_a practice_n whereby_o christ_n be_v rob_v of_o his_o honour_n for_o the_o pharisee_n can_v say_v none_o can_v forgive_v sin_n but_o god_n that_o be_v proper_o mark_n 2.7_o which_o christ_n approve_v and_o it_o be_v must_v true_a for_o he_o that_o can_v forgive_v sin_n proper_o must_v make_v satisfaction_n for_o sin_n three_o they_o absolve_v from_o the_o fault_n but_o they_o will_v not_o forgive_v the_o punishment_n and_o thereby_o they_o rob_v other_o to_o enrich_v themselves_o four_o they_o enjoin_v satisfaction_n to_o god_n by_o man_n for_o their_o sin_n whereby_o they_o do_v nothing_o else_o but_o overturn_v the_o al-sufficient_a satisfaction_n of_o christ_n and_o enjoin_v that_o to_o man_n which_o be_v impossible_a all_o these_o be_v most_o
come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n these_o word_n contain_v the_o second_o promise_n of_o christ_n unto_o this_o church_n concern_v their_o preservation_n in_o time_n of_o most_o bloody_a persecution_n for_o this_o epistle_n unto_o this_o church_n as_o also_o this_o book_n be_v write_v by_o john_n after_o the_o ascension_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o day_n of_o domitian_n the_o emperor_n of_o rome_n after_o who_o succeed_v traâ—anus_n who_o when_o he_o be_v seat_v in_o his_o empire_n raise_v up_o grievous_a persecution_n against_o god_n church_n in_o all_o place_n of_o his_o dominion_n wherein_o he_o put_v to_o death_n innumerable_a thousand_o of_o christian_n for_o the_o space_n of_o fourteen_o year_n of_o this_o persecution_n our_o saviour_n christ_n foretell_v this_o church_n call_v it_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n and_o withal_o he_o promise_v to_o preserve_v this_o church_n in_o the_o time_n of_o this_o bloody_a persecution_n add_v a_o reason_n thereof_o because_o they_o have_v constant_o and_o sincere_o profess_v his_o gospel_n in_o this_o promise_n of_o preservation_n note_v sundry_a point_n i._o the_o occasion_n thereof_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o word_n of_o his_o patience_n ii_o the_o thing_n promise_v deliverance_n under_o traianus_n iii_o a_o prediction_n of_o this_o persecution_n that_o it_o shall_v come_v upon_o the_o world_n for_o this_o end_n to_o try_v they_o i._o point_n the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n some_o expound_v to_o be_v christ_n commandment_n of_o patience_n but_o that_o exposition_n be_v too_o straight_o here_o it_o signify_v the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ_n which_o be_v call_v the_o word_n of_o patience_n first_o because_o it_o teach_v patience_n second_o because_o it_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o patience_n for_o when_o a_o man_n know_v salvation_n by_o christ_n and_o also_o believe_v the_o same_o to_o belong_v to_o he_o that_o will_v make_v he_o patient_a in_o all_o the_o misery_n of_o this_o life_n three_o because_o it_o can_v be_v profess_v and_o hold_v unto_o death_n without_o patience_n but_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o good_a ground_n it_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n with_o patience_n so_o must_v every_o one_o do_v that_o profess_v this_o gospel_n in_o this_o occasion_n of_o god_n promise_v observe_v that_o god_n grace_n well_o use_v be_v reward_v with_o increase_n those_o which_o have_v receive_v but_o small_a measure_n of_o grace_n at_o the_o first_o by_o become_v faithful_a therein_o have_v receive_v increase_n which_o serve_v to_o move_v we_o to_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o use_n of_o those_o talent_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v for_o hereby_o we_o shall_v receive_v increase_n when_o as_o those_o which_o have_v receive_v good_a gift_n from_o god_n as_o knowledge_n and_o such_o like_a because_o they_o have_v not_o be_v faithful_a in_o the_o use_n thereof_o have_v be_v deprive_v of_o the_o same_o wherefore_o whosoever_o have_v begin_v to_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o believe_v and_o to_o repent_v let_v the_o same_o party_n proceed_v to_o use_v those_o gift_n still_o to_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n and_o people_n among_o who_o they_o live_v and_o they_o shall_v see_v the_o lord_n will_v double_v and_o treble_a and_o great_o increase_v the_o same_o unto_o they_o again_o note_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o patience_n this_o show_v how_o good_a and_o meet_v it_o be_v for_o every_o one_o to_o learn_v the_o gospel_n in_o the_o day_n of_o peace_n for_o every_o one_o in_o time_n of_o trial_n will_v wish_v for_o strength_n and_o patience_n and_o we_o know_v not_o how_o long_o these_o day_n of_o peace_n will_v last_v again_o each_o man_n in_o his_o call_n be_v subject_a to_o many_o cross_n and_o misery_n for_o in_o the_o sweat_n of_o our_o face_n must_v we_o eat_v our_o bread_n and_o who_o be_v free_a from_o pain_n and_o disease_n yea_o who_o can_v escape_v death_n itself_o now_o in_o all_o these_o and_o in_o all_o other_o trouble_n we_o have_v need_n of_o patience_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o time_n of_o health_n and_o ease_n let_v we_o hide_v in_o our_o heart_n the_o seed_n of_o this_o grace_n to_o wit_n the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o then_o in_o due_a time_n we_o shall_v reap_v the_o fruit_n of_o patience_n which_o will_v make_v we_o content_v in_o all_o distress_n both_o of_o life_n and_o death_n and_o if_o we_o will_v know_v why_o most_o man_n be_v so_o impatient_a in_o affliction_n it_o be_v because_o they_o have_v so_o little_a knowledge_n and_o faith_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o his_o grace_n second_o see_v the_o gospel_n be_v the_o word_n of_o patience_n hereby_o all_o person_n that_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o the_o gospel_n must_v learn_v to_o put_v on_o patience_n keep_v a_o moderation_n in_o all_o their_o thought_n will_n and_o affection_n for_o when_o we_o be_v impatienâ—_n any_o way_n we_o be_v not_o suitable_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o salvation_n three_o this_o word_n of_o patience_n be_v call_v christ_n the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n because_o christ_n be_v the_o author_n of_o it_o this_o be_v add_v to_o beat_v down_o the_o pride_n of_o this_o church_n for_o when_o god_n do_v praise_v they_o for_o their_o obedience_n their_o heart_n may_v have_v be_v puff_v up_o with_o pride_n but_o to_o prevent_v this_o evil_n in_o this_o church_n who_o he_o now_o praise_v he_o call_v it_o his_o patience_n that_o they_o may_v not_o think_v this_o good_a thing_n be_v of_o themselves_o and_o the_o same_o consideration_n must_v check_v the_o proud_a thought_n that_o rise_v in_o our_o heart_n namely_o to_o remember_v that_o no_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v be_v our_o own_o but_o christ_n what_o have_v thou_o which_o thou_o have_v not_o receive_v why_o then_o shall_v thou_o boast_v 1._o corinth_n 4.7_o ii_o point_n the_o thing_n promise_v be_v preservation_n and_o deliverance_n in_o the_o bloody_a persecution_n under_o traianuâ—_n in_o which_o for_o the_o space_n of_o fourteen_o year_n innumerable_a christian_n be_v put_v to_o death_n i_o will_v deliver_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n here_o first_o observe_v that_o god_n have_v appoint_v certain_a set_v hour_n and_o time_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o church_n as_o well_o for_o the_o gift_n of_o his_o grace_n as_o of_o their_o wickedness_n and_o hypocrisy_n thus_o he_o lead_v the_o israelite_n 1.2_o forty_o year_n in_o the_o wilderness_n to_o see_v whether_o they_o will_v obey_v he_o and_o he_o send_v 13.3_o false_a prophet_n among_o they_o to_o try_v whether_o they_o will_v turn_v from_o the_o true_a god_n or_o no._n and_o as_o god_n thus_o deal_v with_o his_o church_n so_o he_o bathe_v appoint_v particular_a time_n and_o hour_n wherein_o he_o will_v try_v particular_a person_n 2_o god_n bid_v abraham_n kill_v his_o son_n and_o that_o be_v his_o trial_n and_o 32.31_o hezekias_n be_v leave_v unto_o himself_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v see_v all_o that_o be_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o so_o for_o every_o christian_a god_n have_v a_o set_a time_n of_o trial_n wherein_o he_o will_v either_o make_v manifest_a his_o grace_n or_o disclose_v their_o hypocrisy_n this_o point_n ought_v to_o be_v well_o weigh_v for_o herein_o the_o lord_n deal_v like_o the_o worthy_a founder_n of_o great_a school_n use_n who_o have_v appoint_v certain_a set_v time_n of_o pose_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o scholar_n to_o see_v what_o every_a one_o proceed_v be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v according_o reward_v and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o shame_n for_o one_o to_o have_v be_v long_o in_o a_o good_a school_n and_o to_o have_v make_v no_o proceed_n in_o learning_n so_o it_o be_v for_o any_o one_o that_o have_v live_v long_o in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n and_o have_v not_o profit_v in_o grace_n this_o therefore_o must_v teach_v we_o these_o duty_n first_o to_o try_v our_o self_n and_o that_o staight_o concern_v our_o progress_n in_o knowledge_n faith_n repentance_n and_o obedience_n for_o god_n himself_o will_v try_v we_o who_o eye_n we_o can_v never_o blind_v though_o we_o may_v deceive_v man_n he_o will_v lay_v open_a our_o heart_n and_o make_v know_v what_o be_v in_o we_o whether_o it_o be_v true_a grace_n or_o false_a hypocrisy_n let_v we_o not_o cover_v ourselves_o with_o fig_n leave_v for_o god_n will_v strip_v we_o naked_a but_o rather_o let_v we_o search_v our_o self_n touch_v our_o sin_n and_o god_n grace_n and_o never_o rest_v content_v till_o we_o have_v find_v in_o our_o soul_n the_o good_a gift_n of_o grace_n which_o will_v abide_v his_o trial_n second_o hereby_o we_o be_v admonish_v as_o near_o as_o we_o can_v to_o conform_v our_o heart_n and_o life_n unto_o the_o word_n and_o will_n
yet_o they_o will_v not_o take_v pain_n to_o read_v the_o same_o at_o least_o in_o such_o a_o constant_a course_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o do_v three_o the_o lord_n sabbath_n be_v break_v for_o though_o most_o man_n at_o set_a time_n will_v come_v into_o the_o congregation_n yet_o there_o be_v not_o that_o private_a sanctify_a of_o the_o sabbath_n after_o the_o congregation_n be_v dissolve_v which_o god_n word_n require_v but_o man_n betake_v themselves_o to_o their_o own_o affair_n and_o to_o outward_a delight_n to_o omit_v those_o that_o have_v no_o care_n at_o all_o of_o sanctify_v the_o sabbath_n in_o any_o sort_n now_o these_o person_n must_v needs_o want_v both_o knowledge_n obedience_n and_o all_o sound_a grace_n that_o will_v not_o set_v apart_o some_o time_n wherein_o they_o shall_v employ_v themselves_o in_o god_n word_n and_o by_o these_o sign_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o there_o be_v a_o grievous_a disease_n of_o negligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n that_o infect_v our_o congregation_n now_o where_o this_o negligence_n be_v though_o coldness_n be_v not_o there_o can_v be_v zeal_n and_o so_o luke-warmnesse_n must_v needs_o abound_v ii_o sign_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a the_o religion_n of_o most_o man_n be_v this_o in_o the_o general_a call_n of_o a_o christian_n they_o show_v religion_n but_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n where_o be_v religion_n in_o the_o church_n they_o be_v good_a christian_n but_o in_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o their_o particular_a calling_n who_o show_v his_o religion_n for_o when_o as_o man_n shall_v practice_v their_o calling_n according_a to_o god_n word_n and_o true_a godliness_n they_o follow_v the_o desire_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n little_a conscience_n be_v make_v of_o lie_v and_o oppression_n that_o love_n and_o plain_a deal_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v between_o man_n and_o man_n be_v want_v which_o prove_v they_o plain_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a gospeler_n iii_o sign_n there_o be_v many_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a for_o though_o all_o general_o come_v to_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o many_o when_o they_o see_v some_o make_v conscience_n to_o become_v answerable_a in_o some_o measure_n to_o the_o word_n which_o they_o hear_v and_o the_o sacrament_n which_o they_o receive_v do_v take_v up_o in_o their_o mouth_n this_o slander_n of_o precizenesse_n against_o they_o mock_v they_o for_o do_v that_o which_o in_o the_o word_n &_o sacrament_n themselves_o profess_v shall_v be_v do_v these_o man_n will_v not_o be_v enemy_n to_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n and_o they_o profess_v themselves_o not_o to_o be_v zealous_a by_o reproach_v zeal_n in_o other_o therefore_o they_o do_v more_o than_o these_o laodicean_n do_v even_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v lukewarm_a for_o he_o that_o reproach_v another_o for_o zeal_n in_o religion_n brand_v himself_o with_o this_o sin_n of_o lukewarmenesse_a and_o who_o know_v not_o how_o many_o of_o this_o â—ort_n be_v every_o where_o i_o dare_v with_o good_a conscience_n say_v our_o congregation_n general_o consist_v of_o such_o now_o mark_v what_o follow_v hereupon_o first_o that_o our_o common_a professor_n of_o religion_n be_v in_o worse_a case_n than_o heathen_a man_n jew_n and_o turk_n that_o know_v not_o christ._n this_o christ_n teach_v in_o prefer_v cold_a person_n before_o the_o lukewarm_a as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v rather_o thou_o were_v a_o pagan_a than_o a_o professor_n without_o zeal_n and_o 2.21_o saint_n peter_n to_o this_o purpose_n speak_v of_o such_o say_v it_o have_v be_v better_a they_o have_v never_o know_v the_o way_n of_o truth_n than_o after_o they_o have_v know_v it_o not_o to_o obey_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n so_o that_o unless_o there_o be_v further_a matter_n in_o we_o than_o knowledge_n and_o bare_a profession_n our_o case_n be_v worse_a than_o the_o case_n of_o jew_n and_o turk_n religion_n know_v will_v not_o make_v thou_o better_o than_o they_o but_o it_o be_v zeal_n and_o obedience_n that_o must_v prefer_v thou_o before_o they_o second_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o our_o estate_n i_o gather_v that_o we_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v spew_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n as_o lukewarm_a water_n out_o of_o the_o stomach_n this_o be_v the_o punishment_n here_o threaten_v which_o be_v write_v for_o our_o instruction_n that_o we_o may_v know_v where_o lukewarmenesse_a take_v place_n there_o this_o punishment_n will_v follow_v we_o may_v flatter_v ourselves_o as_o the_o man_n in_o the_o old_a world_n do_v &_o think_v all_o be_v well_o never_o regard_v till_o the_o judgement_n come_v but_o the_o truth_n be_v that_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o sin_n we_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o church_n and_o from_o true_a society_n with_o christ_n god_n can_v do_v this_o sundry_a way_n either_o by_o bereave_v we_o of_o his_o gospel_n and_o make_v we_o as_o the_o heathen_a or_o by_o send_v the_o enemy_n among_o we_o to_o destroy_v and_o root_v we_o out_o of_o this_o land_n and_o even_o in_o our_o neighbor-countreys_n and_o town_n he_o set_v spectacle_n before_o we_o that_o by_o they_o we_o may_v see_v how_o he_o can_v spew_v we_o ouâ—_n &_o cut_v we_o off_o from_o be_v a_o people_n and_o thus_o much_o of_o the_o first_o fault_n namely_o lukewarmenesse_a vers._n 17._o for_o thou_o say_v i_o be_o rich_a and_o make_v rich_a and_o have_v need_n of_o nothing_o and_o know_v not_o how_o thou_o be_v wretched_a and_o miserable_a and_o poor_a &_o blind_a and_o naked_a here_o be_v the_o second_o sin_n of_o this_o church_n namely_o spiritual_a pride_n the_o word_n depend_v upon_o the_o former_a as_o a_o reason_n thereof_o before_o he_o charge_v they_o with_o deadness_n in_o religion_n and_o here_o he_o paint_v out_o the_o cause_n thereof_o namely_o spiritual_a pride_n of_o hart_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v thou_o think_v thus_o within_o thyself_o i_o be_o rich_a for_o it_o be_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o express_v the_o thought_n of_o man_n by_o their_o speech_n because_o the_o thought_n of_o man_n be_v as_o evident_a to_o christ_n as_o any_o man_n speech_n can_v be_v to_o another_o use_n in_o that_o christ_n do_v express_v man_n secret_a thought_n and_o propound_v the_o same_o in_o this_o book_n we_o may_v hence_o gather_v that_o it_o be_v a_o part_n of_o canonical_a scripture_n for_o it_o be_v a_o privilege_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o set_v down_o the_o thought_n of_o country_n of_o church_n &_o of_o particular_a man_n even_o as_o they_o conceive_v they_o this_o can_v no_o man_n do_v in_o any_o book_n of_o his_o own_o devise_v and_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v a_o argument_n against_o atheist_n that_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n because_o they_o reveal_v man_n secret_a thought_n now_o follow_v the_o thought_n itself_o of_o the_o angel_n and_o people_n of_o this_o church_n i_o be_o rich_a that_o be_v i_o have_v many_o excellent_a gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n by_o this_o effect_n he_o express_v their_o spiritual_a pride_n in_o overween_a their_o estate_n before_o god_n this_o be_v a_o common_a sin_n in_o the_o world_n and_o ever_o have_v be_v christ_n say_v 5.32_o he_o come_v not_o to_o call_v the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n to_o repentance_n by_o righteous_a mean_v such_o as_o think_v themselves_o righteous_a and_o the_o 10._o proud_a pharisie_n in_o his_o prayer_n which_o he_o conceive_v in_o his_o heart_n think_v himself_o far_o better_o than_o the_o poor_a publican_n or_o other_o man_n and_o paul_n â—_o bring_v in_o the_o corinthian_n think_v proud_o of_o themselves_o say_v we_o be_v full_a and_o make_v rich_a etc._n etc._n this_o sin_n take_v place_n in_o the_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n who_o persuade_v themselves_o that_o they_o can_v satisfy_v god_n justice_n by_o temporal_a work_n and_o fulfil_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o merit_n for_o themselves_o and_o for_o other_o to_o come_v to_o ourselves_o this_o same_o proud_a thought_n have_v place_n among_o us._n first_o we_o think_v we_o be_v rich_a in_o regard_n of_o knowledge_n both_o young_a and_o old_a scorn_n to_o be_v catechize_v because_o they_o will_v not_o seem_v to_o be_v ignorant_a some_o stick_v not_o to_o profess_v this_o pride_n by_o brag_v thus_o that_o they_o know_v as_o much_o for_o substance_n as_o any_o man_n can_v teach_v they_o when_o as_o indeed_o they_o know_v nothing_o but_o that_o which_o nature_n will_v teach_v a_o man_n second_o man_n plead_v that_o they_o have_v a_o most_o firm_a say_v so_o as_o they_o never_o doubt_v of_o god_n mercy_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o presumption_n of_o a_o proud_a heart_n for_o true_a faith_n be_v trouble_v with_o doubt_v
their_o sin_n till_o he_o carry_v their_o soul_n to_o hell_n a_o good_a meaning_n will_v not_o serve_v the_o turn_n god_n require_v true_a zeal_n in_o well-doing_n vers._n 20._o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o unto_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o here_o christ_n to_o keep_v his_o church_n from_o despair_n minister_n unto_o they_o the_o sign_n and_o token_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o before_o the_o same_o set_v down_o this_o note_n of_o attention_n behold_v hereby_o intend_v to_o make_v they_o more_o attentive_o to_o mark_v the_o token_n of_o his_o love_n that_o plain_o see_v the_o same_o they_o may_v not_o doubt_v thereof_o hereby_o in_o general_n we_o be_v teach_v that_o if_o we_o will_v arm_v ourselves_o against_o desperation_n and_o distrust_n in_o any_o distress_n we_o must_v both_o often_o and_o serious_o consider_v and_o mark_v the_o token_n of_o god_n love_n unto_o we_o and_o that_o will_v fortify_v our_o faith_n read_v psal._n 23_o in_o every_o verse_n save_o the_o last_o he_o set_v down_o token_n of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n towards_o he_o and_o then_o in_o the_o last_o conclude_v thus_o without_o doubt_n kindesse_n &_o mercy_n shall_v follow_v i_o all_o the_o day_n of_o my_o life_n and_o i_o shall_v remain_v a_o long_a season_n in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n our_o heart_n be_v natural_o fill_v with_o doubt_v which_o will_v bewray_v itself_o in_o any_o distress_n but_o to_o prevent_v and_o cut_v off_o all_o hurt_n that_o may_v come_v thereby_o let_v we_o mark_v the_o good_a deal_n of_o our_o god_n towards_o we_o and_o observe_v the_o token_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n in_o his_o ordinary_a providence_n and_o these_o will_v notable_o strengthen_v we_o against_o distrust_n and_o sure_o no_o person_n be_v so_o full_a of_o despair_n but_o if_o he_o can_v look_v back_o into_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o day_n and_o lay_v they_o to_o his_o heart_n they_o will_v minister_v comfort_n unto_o he_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n at_o that_o instant_n more_o particular_o christ_n minister_a comfort_n unto_o this_o church_n do_v express_v his_o meaning_n by_o a_o borrow_a speech_n compare_v every_o man_n unto_o a_o house_n his_o heart_n unto_o a_o door_n whereby_o entrance_n be_v make_v and_o himself_o unto_o a_o guest_n or_o stranger_n desire_v to_o come_v and_o enter_v in_o not_o so_o much_o to_o find_v courtesy_n as_o to_o show_v favour_n and_o kindness_n in_o the_o word_n of_o this_o verse_n there_o be_v two_o sign_n of_o his_o love_n set_v down_o first_o a_o hearty_a desire_n of_o their_o conversion_n which_o he_o earnest_o seek_v second_o a_o promise_n of_o mutual_a fellowship_n after_o their_o conversion_n the_o first_o in_o these_o word_n behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n in_o this_o desire_n christ_n express_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o this_o church_n if_o we_o regard_v the_o great_a part_n thereof_o have_v no_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n nor_o christ_n with_o they_o for_o he_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n which_o be_v close_v up_o against_o he_o this_o may_v seem_v strange_a but_o the_o case_n be_v evident_a for_o though_o they_o have_v in_o they_o many_o good_a thing_n as_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o do_v profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o be_v partaker_n of_o the_o sign_n and_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n yet_o they_o be_v taint_v with_o this_o notorious_a sin_n of_o luke-warmnesse_n which_o close_v up_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n against_o christ_n and_o bar_v he_o out_o here_o than_o we_o be_v careful_o to_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n may_v have_v in_o he_o many_o good_a thing_n and_o yet_o by_o live_v in_o one_o sin_n we_o be_v quite_o cut_v off_o from_o all_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ._n judas_n have_v many_o excellent_a gift_n he_o forsake_v all_o and_o follow_v christ_n he_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n and_o yet_o by_o covetousness_n the_o door_n of_o his_o heart_n be_v quite_o bar_v against_o christ._n so_o herode_fw-la reverence_v john_n and_o hear_v he_o glad_o and_o do_v many_o thing_n at_o his_o instruction_n mark_n 6.20_o yet_o by_o the_o sin_n of_o incest_n his_o heart_n be_v so_o close_v that_o he_o have_v no_o fellowship_n with_o christ._n and_o so_o it_o be_v with_o we_o it_o be_v good_a that_o we_o know_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o approve_v the_o same_o and_o profess_v the_o gospel_n and_o also_o receive_v the_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n but_o yet_o for_o all_o these_o our_o case_n may_v be_v such_o as_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o true_a fellowship_n with_o christ._n for_o if_o we_o nourish_v though_o but_o one_o sin_n and_o live_v therein_o that_o will_v make_v a_o separation_n between_o christ_n and_o we_o be_v the_o sin_n what_o it_o will_v as_o covetousness_n adultery_n profaneness_n or_o such_o like_a hereby_o then_o all_o that_o desire_v to_o have_v true_a fellowship_n with_o christ_n be_v to_o be_v warn_v to_o purge_v their_o life_n from_o all_o sin_n so_o as_o their_o heart_n be_v not_o taint_v with_o nourish_v any_o one_o sin_n for_o even_o one_o sin_n wâ—â—â—â—soever_o it_o be_v be_v a_o strong_a bar_n 〈◊〉_d will_v keep_v christ_n from_o come_v into_o us._n second_o whereas_o he_o say_v 〈◊〉_d i_o have_v stand_v at_o the_o door_n for_o so_o the_o word_n be_v here_o he_o speak_v to_o this_o church_n as_o he_o use_v to_o speak_v by_o his_o old_a prophet_n as_o by_o jeremie_n 13._o i_o have_v send_v unto_o you_o all_o my_o prophet_n rise_v early_o every_o day_n and_o send_v they_o and_o by_o isaiah_n 65.2_o i_o have_v spread_v out_o my_o hand_n all_o the_o day_n unto_o a_o rebellious_a people_n which_o walk_v in_o a_o way_n that_o be_v not_o good_a even_o after_o their_o own_o imagination_n so_o here_o i_o have_v stand_v at_o the_o door_n that_o be_v long_o even_o till_o night_n as_o the_o word_n sup_v import_v hereby_o christ_n will_v signify_v his_o great_a patience_n in_o wait_v for_o the_o conversion_n of_o this_o people_n of_o loadicea_n in_o justice_n he_o may_v long_o ago_o have_v cast_v they_o to_o the_o pit_n of_o destruction_n for_o their_o sin_n and_o yet_o in_o mercy_n he_o wait_v for_o their_o conversion_n and_o complain_v that_o he_o have_v wait_v long_o here_o than_o we_o have_v just_a occasion_n to_o take_v a_o view_n of_o god_n patience_n in_o wait_v for_o the_o conversion_n of_o a_o sinner_n and_o that_o which_o he_o say_v to_o this_o church_n he_o may_v as_o just_o say_v unto_o we_o for_o he_o have_v stand_v very_o long_o at_o our_o door_n even_o 36._o year_n and_o upward_o and_o yet_o still_o continue_v knock_v so_o as_o he_o may_v just_o complain_v of_o his_o long_a wait_v let_v we_o then_o here_o learn_v to_o know_v the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n which_o be_v then_o to_o any_o people_n when_o christ_n stand_v at_o their_o door_n and_o knock_n and_o unto_o we_o this_o day_n be_v present_a we_o have_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v persuade_v that_o this_o be_v the_o time_n of_o our_o visitation_n and_o hereupon_o learn_v the_o duty_n which_o christ_n teach_v the_o jew_n namely_o acknowledge_v the_o day_n of_o our_o visitation_n which_o if_o we_o do_v not_o we_o must_v look_v for_o like_a vengeance_n which_o fall_v upon_o the_o jew_n because_o they_o regard_v not_o when_o god_n send_v his_o own_o son_n from_o his_o bosom_n to_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o knock_v here_o be_v a_o further_a signification_n of_o his_o desire_n of_o their_o conversion_n wherein_o we_o may_v behold_v his_o great_a &_o unspeakable_a mercy_n towards_o this_o church_n and_o in_o they_o towards_o all_o other_o his_o child_n this_o church_n have_v bar_v out_o christ_n by_o their_o sin_n and_o yet_o he_o pursue_v they_o he_o knock_v he_o use_v mean_n to_o enter_v for_o 〈◊〉_d good_a and_o vouchsafe_v they_o mercy_n 〈◊〉_d then_o when_o they_o refuse_v it_o thus_o when_o adam_n have_v sin_v and_o flee_v and_o hide_v himself_o do_v the_o lord_n seek_v he_o in_o the_o garden_n &_o make_v with_o he_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v true_o say_v in_o 65.1_o isaiah_n the_o lord_n be_v find_v of_o they_o that_o never_o seek_v he_o luk._n 15.4.5_o christ_n fetch_v the_o lose_a sheep_n that_o be_v go_v astray_o all_o which_o show_n and_o set_v out_o unto_o we_o the_o unspeakable_a greatness_n of_o god_n mercy_n in_o christ_n unto_o miserable_a man_n who_o then_o show_v mercy_n unto_o he_o when_o he_o
church_n for_o the_o pure_a word_n of_o god_n now_o come_v to_o the_o word_n the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o etc._n etc._n these_o three_o first_o chapter_n consist_v of_o two_o part_n a_o preface_n and_o a_o vision_n the_o preface_n be_v a_o entrance_n to_o the_o vision_n contain_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n from_o the_o first_o verse_n to_o the_o nine_o the_o vision_n itself_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o rest_n of_o these_o three_o chapter_n the_o preface_n have_v two_o part_n first_o the_o title_n of_o the_o book_n second_o the_o inscription_n thereof_o the_o title_n in_o the_o three_o first_o verse_n the_o inscription_n from_o the_o four_o to_o the_o nine_o verse_n the_o title_n in_o these_o word_n the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n a_o revelation_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o manifestation_n or_o discovery_n of_o thing_n secret_a in_o respect_n of_o man_n for_o the_o common_a good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o this_o word_n be_v take_v in_o this_o place_n revelation_n from_o god_n in_o scripture_n be_v show_v three_o way_n first_o by_o dream_n second_o by_o vision_n three_o by_o create_a voice_n of_o god_n face_n to_o face_n as_o we_o may_v see_v num._n 12.6_o 8._o now_o this_o be_v not_o by_o dream_n nor_o by_o vision_n or_o voice_n alone_o but_o it_o be_v a_o mix_a revelation_n receive_v partly_o by_o vision_n and_o partly_o by_o voice_n utter_v in_o the_o vision_n from_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o three_o first_o verse_n this_o revelation_n be_v describe_v by_o seven_o argument_n first_o by_o the_o author_n second_o the_o end_n three_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o be_v direct_v four_o the_o matter_n five_o the_o instrument_n six_o the_o manner_n of_o deliver_v it_o seven_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o revelation_n first_o the_o author_n be_v jesus_n christ_n it_o come_v from_o he_o and_o it_o be_v call_v his_o revelation_n in_o these_o respect_n first_o not_o to_o exclude_v the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n but_o to_o show_v the_o special_a office_n of_o christ_n the_o second_o person_n in_o trinity_n which_o be_v to_o reveal_v to_o publish_v and_o to_o manifest_v the_o will_n of_o god_n the_o father_n to_o his_o church_n and_o for_o this_o cause_n he_o be_v call_v the_o 3.1_o angel_n of_o the_o covenant_n the_o â—_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n the_o â—4_n wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n &_o the_o 1._o word_n of_o god_n second_o it_o be_v call_v the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o teach_v we_o to_o put_v difference_n between_o this_o and_o all_o satanical_a revelation_n for_o as_o god_n have_v his_o true_a revelation_n so_o satan_n who_o herein_o may_v be_v call_v god_n ape_n have_v his_o counterfeit_a vision_n and_o deliver_v they_o in_o show_n like_o to_o god_n but_o they_o differ_v much_o first_o the_o devil_n revelation_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n ambiguous_a doubtful_a and_o uncertain_a in_o speech_n and_o phrase_n so_o as_o a_o man_n can_v tell_v which_o way_n to_o take_v they_o but_o the_o revelation_n which_o come_v from_o christ_n the_o author_n of_o truth_n who_o know_v all_o thing_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o they_o be_v certain_a and_o in_o plain_a term_n deliver_v second_o the_o devil_n show_v his_o vision_n to_o none_o but_o to_o the_o wicked_a and_o bad_a man_n that_o be_v his_o instrument_n but_o the_o lord_n choose_v the_o godly_a which_o fear_v his_o name_n and_o to_o they_o he_o reveal_v his_o secret_n as_o to_o john_n in_o this_o place_n three_o the_o devil_n revelation_n evermore_o tend_v to_o set_v up_o and_o uphold_v heresy_n wickedness_n apostasy_n and_o idolatry_n deut._n 13.1_o 2._o but_o these_o that_o come_v from_o god_n serve_v to_o erect_v and_o maintain_v truth_n according_a to_o godliness_n even_o pure_a apostolical_a doctrine_n and_o the_o sincere_a worship_n of_o god_n three_o it_o be_v call_v the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n to_o show_v unto_o we_o his_o special_a kingly_a office_n in_o heaven_n for_o be_v ascend_v and_o exalt_v to_o the_o throne_n of_o majesty_n he_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n far_o above_o all_o principality_n and_o power_n might_n and_o domination_n and_o there_o do_v direct_v rule_n and_o govern_v his_o church_n upon_o earth_n according_a to_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o his_o will_n for_o all_o these_o vision_n serve_v to_o direct_v his_o church_n in_o their_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n whereas_o christ_n jesus_n be_v author_n of_o this_o revelation_n use_n and_o after_o his_o ascension_n and_o exaltation_n give_v the_o same_o unto_o his_o church_n we_o may_v observe_v his_o constant_a care_n over_o his_o church_n in_o this_o last_o age_n of_o the_o world_n before_o his_o incarnation_n even_o from_o the_o beginning_n he_o give_v unto_o his_o people_n such_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n as_o be_v needful_a for_o their_o salvation_n and_o still_o some_o time_n to_o time_n reveal_v such_o prophecy_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v as_o be_v meet_v for_o they_o to_o know_v and_o now_o behold_v the_o continuance_n or_o rather_o the_o increase_n of_o this_o his_o care_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n for_o beside_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o former_a prophecy_n and_o the_o full_a manifestation_n of_o his_o bless_a will_n by_o his_o evangelist_n and_o apostle_n for_o all_o thing_n needful_a to_o be_v believe_v and_o do_v unto_o eternal_a life_n loe_o here_o be_v add_v the_o revelation_n of_o this_o worthy_a prophecy_n concern_v thing_n to_o come_v for_o the_o great_a good_a and_o comfort_n of_o his_o child_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o god_n give_v unto_o he_o these_o word_n be_v add_v to_o show_v how_o this_o become_v the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n namely_o by_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n that_o be_v of_o god_n the_o father_n the_o first_o person_n in_o trinity_n for_o this_o be_v a_o rule_n to_o be_v observe_v that_o where_o the_o title_n god_n in_o any_o sentence_n of_o scripture_n be_v oppose_v to_o christ_n there_o it_o import_v the_o first_o person_n the_o father_n though_o this_o be_v also_o true_a that_o sundry_a time_n in_o scripture_n the_o father_n alone_o be_v term_v god_n without_o any_o addition_n of_o the_o other_o person_n because_o he_o be_v the_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o order_n and_o the_o fountain_n of_o the_o deity_n for_o the_o son_n receive_v the_o godhead_n by_o communication_n from_o the_o father_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n receive_v it_o from_o they_o both_o but_o the_o father_n have_v his_o godhead_n of_o himself_o and_o receive_v it_o not_o by_o communication_n from_o any_o other_o here_o some_o will_v say_v this_o seem_v strange_a that_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v give_v to_o christ_n see_v he_o be_v god_n and_o have_v all_o thing_n of_o himself_o answ._n we_o must_v conceive_v of_o christ_n two_o way_n first_o as_o god_n second_o as_o mediator_n and_o head_n of_o the_o church_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n the_o father_n give_v he_o nothing_o for_o so_o he_o be_v of_o himself_o the_o same_o with_o the_o father_n and_o have_v all_o thing_n belong_v unto_o he_o that_o the_o father_n have_v except_v personal_a property_n and_o be_v no_o way_n inferior_a to_o the_o father_n neither_o receive_v any_o thing_n from_o he_o but_o give_v all_o thing_n as_o well_o as_o the_o father_n do_v but_o yet_o as_o christ_n be_v mediator_n he_o be_v not_o god_n simple_o but_o god_n incarnate_a or_o god_n make_v man_n and_o so_o be_v say_v to_o receive_v of_o his_o father_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o manhood_n as_o himself_o confess_v all_o power_n be_v give_v to_o i_o matth._n 28.18_o and_o paul_n say_v god_n give_v he_o a_o name_n above_o all_o name_n philip._n 2.9_o he_o receive_v of_o his_o father_n the_o promise_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v peter_n act._n 2.33_o and_o god_n make_v he_o both_o lord_n and_o christ_n ver_fw-la 36._o and_o so_o god_n give_v he_o this_o revelation_n in_o this_o place_n if_o it_o be_v say_v this_o make_v christ_n inferior_a to_o his_o father_n for_o the_o receiver_n be_v usual_o inferior_a to_o the_o giver_n answer_n as_o christ_n be_v god_n he_o be_v equal_a with_o the_o father_n but_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n god_n incarnate_a and_o make_v man_n he_o be_v inferior_a and_o receive_v of_o he_o so_o much_o himself_o confess_v my_o father_n which_o give_v they_o i_o be_v great_a than_o all_o john_n 10.29_o and_o in_o the_o same_o respect_n paul_n call_v god_n the_o father_n the_o head_n of_o christ._n 1._o cor._n 11.6_o and_o as_o christ_n now_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n be_v mediator_n and_o ruler_n of_o his_o church_n he_o be_v inferior_a to_o his_o father_n and_o receive_v his_o kingdom_n from_o his_o father_n which_o he_o
in_o two_o thing_n in_o due_a deserve_a praise_n &_o commendation_n &_o in_o a_o careful_a imitation_n of_o their_o good_a virtue_n &_o godly_a life_n and_o for_o this_o end_n do_v christ_n commend_v antipas_n unto_o this_o church_n that_o they_o may_v follow_v his_o good_a conversation_n but_o as_o for_o popish_a honour_n of_o invocation_n &_o adoration_n it_o have_v no_o ground_n in_o god_n word_n again_o in_o call_v he_o faithful_a martyr_n he_o commend_v more_o the_o cause_n of_o his_o death_n than_o the_o death_n to_o show_v that_o the_o cause_n make_v a_o martyr_n not_o the_o death_n for_o a_o heretic_n may_v be_v put_v to_o death_n for_o his_o damnable_a opinion_n therefore_o antipas_n be_v a_o martyr_n not_o because_o he_o be_v slay_v but_o because_o he_o be_v faithful_a unto_o death_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o christ_n true_a religion_n ii_o point_n in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o verse_n christ_n show_v who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o antipas_n his_o death_n namely_o such_o among_o they_o in_o who_o satan_n rule_v for_o he_o be_v slay_v say_v christ_n among_o you_o where_o satan_n dwell_v which_o word_n he_o repent_v to_o give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o all_o persecutor_n let_v they_o carry_v what_o face_n they_o will_v be_v in_o truth_n such_o in_o who_o the_o devil_n rule_v where_o he_o have_v his_o hold_n and_o keep_v possession_n quest._n why_o do_v satan_n more_o dwell_v there_o than_o in_o other_o place_n answ._n because_o many_o in_o this_o place_n be_v gentile_n who_o contemn_v and_o mock_v the_o gospel_n and_o maintain_v idolatry_n whereby_o they_o become_v the_o hold_n of_o satan_n and_o by_o proportion_n we_o may_v gather_v that_o all_o contemner_n of_o religion_n and_o all_o that_o walk_v in_o their_o own_o wicked_a way_n be_v indeed_o the_o stable_n and_o hold_n of_o the_o devil_n though_o they_o shall_v be_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o so_o many_o family_n as_o there_o be_v where_o religion_n be_v mock_v god_n name_n blaspheme_v injustice_n and_o impiety_n practise_v so_o many_o hold_v of_o satan_n there_o be_v where_o the_o devil_n rule_v and_o such_o they_o continue_v till_o they_o reform_v themselves_o of_o their_o impiety_n and_o embrace_v the_o gospel_n sincere_o and_o therefore_o all_o master_n of_o family_n especial_o shall_v love_v the_o gospel_n and_o see_v that_o in_o their_o family_n religion_n be_v teach_v embrace_v and_o obey_v that_o so_o the_o devil_n may_v have_v no_o hold_n in_o their_o family_n que._n whether_o may_v not_o antipas_n be_v pastor_n of_o this_o church_n have_v flee_v for_o the_o safety_n of_o his_o life_n answ._n there_o be_v two_o kind_n of_o persecution_n one_o that_o be_v direct_o intend_v against_o the_o pastor_n principal_o the_o other_o against_o the_o whole_a church_n equal_o in_o the_o persecution_n direct_v against_o the_o pastor_n this_o must_v be_v consider_v whether_o god_n give_v he_o opportunity_n and_o liberty_n to_o fly_v or_o not_o if_o god_n give_v he_o liberty_n and_o opportunity_n he_o may_v fly_v and_o the_o church_n be_v to_o assist_v he_o and_o to_o use_v mean_n for_o his_o preservation_n but_o if_o god_n deny_v he_o mean_n to_o escape_v than_o he_o must_v judge_v himself_o to_o be_v call_v of_o god_n to_o suffer_v death_n for_o his_o name_n and_o so_o he_o may_v not_o fly_v and_o such_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o antipas_n in_o this_o church_n but_o if_o the_o persecution_n be_v direct_v against_o the_o whole_a church_n equal_o than_o the_o pastor_n may_v not_o fly_v but_o take_v part_n in_o their_o suffering_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o stay_v and_o comfort_v his_o brethren_n verse_n 14._o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n which_o teach_v balac_n to_o put_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o they_o shall_v eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n and_o commit_v fornication_n here_o follow_v the_o reproof_n of_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n which_o be_v first_o general_o propound_v in_o these_o word_n i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o second_o in_o particular_a for_o want_v of_o zeal_n in_o suffer_v among_o they_o such_o as_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balam_n three_o he_o set_v down_o a_o reason_n or_o confirmation_n thereof_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o 14_o verse_n and_o in_o the_o 15._o the_o general_a reproof_n be_v the_o same_o which_o be_v give_v out_o against_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n vers_n 4._o whereby_o he_o will_v teach_v we_o a_o special_a duty_n namely_o that_o every_o man_n must_v serious_o consider_v with_o himself_o what_o sin_n he_o have_v in_o he_o which_o christ_n may_v have_v to_o lay_v unto_o his_o charge_n for_o this_o very_a cause_n do_v christ_n rehearse_v it_o unto_o this_o church_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v call_v ourselves_o to_o reckon_n and_o examine_v ourselves_o not_o by_o our_o own_o wit_n but_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n and_o search_v out_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n and_o see_v how_o many_o thing_n christ_n may_v have_v against_o we_o that_o so_o make_v a_o beforehand_a reckon_n and_o seek_v to_o be_v clear_v by_o true_a repentance_n we_o may_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o they_o at_o the_o last_o day_n for_o if_o we_o will_v judge_v ourselves_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v judge_v this_o be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o conscionable_a obedience_n as_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o want_n hereof_o be_v the_o cause_n why_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n do_v perish_v eternal_o for_o a_o day_n of_o account_n will_v come_v wherein_o we_o shall_v never_o escape_v unless_o by_o a_o beforehand_a reckon_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o true_a repentance_n from_o dead_a work_n and_o by_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n we_o prevent_v the_o same_o lamentable_a and_o fearful_a be_v the_o state_n of_o all_o those_o that_o never_o call_v themselves_o to_o this_o account_n it_o cause_v they_o to_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n without_o remorse_n hos_fw-la 7.2_o hereof_o jeremie_n complain_v 8.6_o that_o no_o man_n say_v what_o have_v i_o do_v and_o for_o that_o cause_n he_o denounce_v fearful_a judgement_n against_o the_o people_n this_o be_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o old_a world_n 24._o man_n know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o destroy_v they_o all_o this_o security_n bring_v man_n soul_n to_o hell_n before_o they_o wot_v where_o they_o be_v and_o therefore_o david_n cry_v out_o psal._n 50._o vers_fw-la 22._o oh_o consider_v this_o mean_v the_o account_n that_o god_n will_v take_v with_o they_o lest_o god_n tear_v they_o in_o piece_n and_o there_o be_v none_o to_o deliver_v they_o the_o end_n of_o preach_v and_o hear_v god_n word_n be_v to_o bring_v the_o soul_n to_o eternal_a life_n and_o salvation_n but_o the_o want_n of_o this_o account_n make_v the_o holy_a ordinance_n of_o god_n to_o be_v of_o none_o effect_v to_o many_o a_o one_o for_o how_o shall_v man_n embrace_v with_o comfort_n the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n till_o they_o feel_v in_o themselves_o their_o enmity_n with_o god_n and_o desert_n of_o condemnation_n ii_o point_n because_o thou_o have_v they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n etc._n etc._n here_o be_v the_o particular_a reproof_n of_o this_o church_n for_o want_n of_o zeal_n in_o that_o they_o entertain_v and_o suffer_v heretical_a minister_n to_o live_v among_o they_o which_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n this_o show_v that_o though_o they_o love_v the_o gospel_n and_o embrace_v it_o yet_o it_o be_v very_o cold_o and_o without_o that_o fervent_a zeal_n which_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v show_v against_o such_o heretic_n use_n here_o first_o christ_n teach_v this_o church_n to_o show_v forth_o zeal_n in_o excommunicate_v and_o cast_v out_o such_o heretic_n as_o by_o damnable_a doctrine_n do_v trouble_v they_o this_o place_n be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o that_o ecclesiastical_a censure_n when_o man_n hold_v heretical_a opinion_n the_o church_n after_o two_o or_o three_o admonition_n be_v to_o excommunicate_v they_o and_o cast_v they_o out_o so_o do_v paul_n to_o hymaeneus_n and_o alexander_n 1._o tim._n 1.20_o second_o christ_n reprove_v this_o church_n for_o entertain_v such_o heretic_n and_o wicked_a man_n do_v give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o every_o member_n of_o god_n church_n shall_v have_v a_o great_a dislike_n of_o all_o person_n that_o hold_v not_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n in_o truth_n but_o maintain_v error_n against_o the_o tenor_n of_o scripture_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o church_n for_o this_o cause_n paul_n charge_v timothy_n to_o 5._o separat_fw-la
of_o a_o harlot_n five_o their_o body_n be_v temple_n and_o dwell_v place_n not_o for_o earthly_a prince_n but_o for_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o therefore_o must_v be_v furnish_v with_o god_n grace_n and_o adorn_v with_o chastity_n &_o other_o gift_n of_o god_n spirit_n that_o they_o may_v be_v fit_a mansion_n place_n for_o so_o worthy_a a_o guest_n but_o by_o fornication_n they_o be_v make_v the_o sâ—ies_n &_o stable_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n verse_n 16._o repent_v thyself_o or_o else_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o short_o and_o will_v fight_v against_o thou_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n christ_n have_v lay_v down_o the_o sin_n of_o this_o church_n and_o the_o error_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_o do_v here_o propound_v unto_o this_o church_n first_o a_o remedy_n for_o her_o recovery_n second_o a_o reason_n to_o enforce_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o remedy_n the_o remedy_n be_v in_o these_o word_n repent_v thyself_o in_o it_o consider_v these_o point_n first_o what_o it_o be_v to_o repent_v second_o why_o christ_n so_o often_o urge_v thereunto_o three_o to_o who_o christ_n prescribe_v this_o remedy_n of_o the_o first_o we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o first_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n brief_o therefore_o repentance_n be_v a_o change_n of_o the_o mind_n from_o evil_a to_o good_a and_o a_o turn_n from_o sin_n unto_o god_n here_o repentance_n must_v be_v take_v more_o large_o for_o all_o the_o duty_n that_o accompany_v repentance_n in_o the_o practice_n thereof_o as_o i._o humiliation_n of_o a_o man_n by_o confess_v of_o his_o sin_n unto_o god_n and_o condemn_v of_o himself_o for_o the_o sin_n ii_o prayer_n whereby_o a_o man_n do_v earnest_o entreat_v the_o lord_n for_o the_o pardon_n of_o the_o same_o sin_n iii_o reformation_n whereby_o a_o man_n in_o hart_n propose_v and_o in_o life_n endeavour_v to_o leave_v all_o his_o former_a sin_n and_o for_o ever_o after_o to_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o obedience_n unto_o god_n unto_o all_o these_o do_v the_o holy_a ghost_n exhort_v they_o in_o this_o place_n ii_o point_n why_o do_v christ_n so_o often_o prescribe_v this_o duty_n of_o repentance_n and_o so_o much_o urge_v it_o an._n not_o for_o that_o it_o be_v a_o cause_n or_o a_o meritorious_a mean_n to_o procure_v remission_n of_o sin_n &_o life_n everlasting_a as_o the_o papist_n do_v false_o and_o damnable_o teach_v for_o that_o nothing_o can_v do_v but_o the_o obedience_n &_o passion_n of_o christ_n but_o first_o because_o it_o be_v a_o token_n of_o god_n favour_n procure_v &_o a_o most_o excellent_a fruit_n of_o faith_n such_o as_o make_v a_o man_n cease_v to_o do_v evil_a and_o move_v he_o to_o do_v good_a second_o because_o it_o be_v a_o way_n wherein_o man_n must_v walk_v unto_o the_o end_n that_o will_v have_v remission_n of_o sin_n &_o life_n eternal_a iii_o point_n to_o who_o be_v this_o remedy_n prescribe_v answ._n first_o to_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o then_o to_o the_o nicholaitan_o in_o that_o church_n though_o they_o be_v most_o wicked_a man_n touch_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n they_o be_v before_o commend_v for_o most_o worthy_a grace_n for_o they_o have_v repentance_n and_o yet_o note_n christ_n say_v still_o unto_o they_o repent_v thyself_o herein_o teach_v we_o a_o most_o worthy_a lesson_n which_o every_o one_o ought_v to_o learn_v and_o practice_v namely_o that_o the_o life_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v a_o continual_a practice_n of_o repentance_n when_o a_o man_n have_v once_o repent_v that_o be_v not_o sufficient_a but_o every_o new_a day_n must_v have_v a_o new_a repentance_n for_o his_o daily_a slip_n we_o 5.2_o be_v god_n ambassador_n say_v paul_n for_o christ_n beseech_v you_o in_o christ_n steed_n that_o you_o will_v be_v reconcile_v unto_o god_n now_o they_o be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n before_o for_o they_o be_v call_v 16._o the_o temple_n of_o the_o live_a god_n his_o meaning_n therefore_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v strive_v more_o and_o more_o after_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o further_a assurance_n and_o also_o for_o their_o particular_a sin_n wherein_o they_o daily_o offend_v every_o christian_a must_v daily_o wresâ—â—e_v with_o his_o own_o corruption_n which_o he_o feel_v in_o himself_o that_o the_o long_o he_o live_v the_o more_o he_o may_v grow_v in_o dislike_n with_o himself_o and_o in_o this_o distaste_n of_o himself_o he_o must_v daily_o proceed_v that_o he_o may_v every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o grow_v up_o in_o christ._n and_o lest_o any_o shall_v think_v that_o this_o be_v speak_v to_o this_o church_n alone_o and_o not_o to_o we_o consider_v that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n with_o they_o their_o sin_n be_v our_o sin_n as_o we_o have_v prove_v we_o want_v zeal_n and_o severity_n against_o sin_n and_o sinner_n now_o be_v in_o the_o same_o fault_n with_o they_o we_o must_v therefore_o practice_v the_o same_o remedy_n and_o renew_v our_o repentance_n though_o we_o have_v repent_v heretofore_o second_o he_o prescribe_v this_o duty_n to_o the_o nicolaitan_o that_o hold_v two_o damnable_a error_n and_o no_o doubt_n live_v according_o in_o those_o sin_n and_o yet_o christ_n bar_v they_o not_o from_o his_o kingdom_n but_o bid_v they_o repent_v where_o note_n that_o great_a and_o grievous_a sinner_n be_v not_o bar_v from_o god_n mercy_n if_o they_o will_v repent_v excellent_a be_v that_o say_n of_o isaiah_n god_n iâ—_n much_o in_o spare_v and_o that_o of_o david_n also_o with_o god_n be_v plentiful_a redemption_n 130.7_o this_o point_n be_v serious_o to_o be_v consider_v for_o we_o have_v in_o our_o congregation_n many_o that_o be_v well_o speak_v of_o in_o the_o world_n and_o yet_o for_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o practice_n of_o life_n be_v flat_a atheist_n we_o have_v also_o among_o we_o epicure_n blasphemer_n murderer_n and_o fornicator_n with_o these_o nicolaitan_o now_o to_o all_o these_o and_o such_o like_a this_o doctrine_n appertain_v not_o to_o embolden_v they_o in_o sin_n but_o to_o assure_v they_o there_o be_v mercy_n in_o store_n for_o they_o with_o god_n if_o they_o will_v true_o repent_v they_o must_v not_o turn_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n â—o_o wantonness_n and_o make_v his_o mercy_n a_o bolster_n to_o their_o iniquity_n for_o this_o be_v despise_v of_o god_n bounty_n whereby_o they_o help_v up_o unto_o themselves_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n but_o if_o with_o job_n they_o humble_v themselves_o in_o dust_n and_o ash_n and_o cry_v to_o heaven_n for_o mercy_n from_o a_o break_a heart_n that_o carry_v a_o resolute_a purpose_n to_o leave_v all_o sin_n then_o though_o their_o sin_n be_v never_o so_o many_o they_o shall_v all_o be_v drown_v in_o the_o bottomless_a sea_n of_o god_n mercy_n though_o they_o be_v as_o crimson_a and_o scarlet_a which_o will_v take_v no_o other_o die_v yet_o in_o christ_n blood_n they_o shall_v be_v make_v as_o white_a as_o wool_n &_o snow_n yea_o though_o they_o have_v fall_v often_o into_o the_o same_o sin_n which_o be_v most_o fearful_a and_o dangerous_a yet_o upon_o this_o unfeigned_a repentance_n they_o shall_v be_v restore_v to_o mercy_n for_o the_o fountain_n thereof_o can_v be_v dry_v up_o but_o see_v they_o do_v repent_v for_o whosoever_o look_v for_o christ_n merit_n must_v know_v that_o he_o look_v for_o true_a repentance_n thus_o much_o for_o the_o remedy_n ii_o point_n the_o reason_n whereby_o christ_n will_v set_v a_o edge_n upon_o the_o former_a remedy_n contain_v a_o twofold_a threaten_a or_o commination_n the_o first_o against_o the_o whole_a church_n in_o these_o word_n if_o not_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o short_o the_o second_o against_o the_o nicolaitan_o in_o these_o word_n and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n for_o the_o first_o if_o not_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o short_o these_o word_n be_v expound_v in_o the_o five_o verse_n the_o meaning_n be_v this_o if_o thou_o repent_v not_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o &_o testify_v my_o presence_n by_o take_v punishment_n upon_o thou_o for_o thy_o want_n of_o zeal_n and_o of_o severity_n against_o sin_n and_o sinner_n to_o this_o effect_n the_o prophet_n isaiah_n say_v chap._n 30.27_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v come_v from_o far_o to_o take_v punishment_n upon_o the_o assyrian_n in_o this_o threaten_a the_o phrase_n be_v to_o be_v note_v christ_n say_v if_o not_o i_o come_v unto_o thou_o express_v a_o thing_n to_o come_v by_o a_o word_n of_o the_o time_n present_a to_o give_v they_o to_o understand_v that_o his_o come_n unto_o they_o by_o judgement_n be_v as_o certain_a as_o if_o it_o be_v present_a unless_o they_o do_v repent_v where_o this_o general_a rule_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v of_o all_o namely_o that_o when_o a_o church_n or_o
first_o a_o man_n must_v every_o day_n bethink_v himself_o of_o his_o end_n and_o of_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n either_o in_o general_a to_o all_o the_o world_n or_o particular_o unto_o he_o by_o death_n and_o in_o this_o consideration_n he_o must_v esteem_v and_o judge_v of_o every_o day_n as_o of_o the_o day_n of_o his_o death_n or_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n second_o he_o must_v prepare_v himself_o against_o death_n &_o against_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n every_o day_n even_o this_o present_a day_n as_o though_o he_o shall_v now_o die_v or_o meet_v christ_n in_o judgement_n and_o the_o next_o day_n do_v the_o like_a and_o so_o go_v on_o continual_o to_o the_o day_n of_o his_o death_n and_o for_o our_o furtherance_n in_o this_o christian_a watch_n we_o must_v be_v mindful_a of_o temperance_n and_o sobriety_n that_o we_o keep_v mediocrity_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o creature_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o life_n for_o when_o man_n plunge_v themselves_o either_o in_o the_o care_n of_o this_o world_n or_o in_o earthly_a delight_n they_o quite_o forget_v both_o sin_n and_o death_n and_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n and_o thus_o we_o see_v what_o christ_n mean_v by_o watchfulness_n as_o christ_n prescribe_v this_o duty_n unto_o this_o church_n use_n so_o be_v we_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v enjoin_v the_o same_o christian_a watchfulness_n both_o against_o sin_n and_o death_n and_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n and_o to_o move_v we_o hereto_o consider_v these_o reason_n first_o we_o be_v watchful_a for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o life_n as_o if_o a_o town_n be_v in_o danger_n of_o sack_v or_o burn_v there_o be_v watch_n and_o ward_n keep_v continual_o and_o if_o a_o man_n house_n be_v in_o danger_n of_o rob_v he_o will_v sit_v up_o night_n and_o day_n to_o save_v his_o good_n yea_o every_o man_n be_v very_o painful_a and_o watchful_a to_o heap_v up_o to_o himself_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n now_o what_o a_o shame_n be_v it_o that_o man_n shall_v be_v watchful_a for_o temporal_a thing_n and_o yet_o have_v no_o care_n of_o their_o soul_n that_o must_v live_v for_o ever_o again_o want_v of_o watchfulness_n be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o death_n and_o eternal_a destruction_n i._o thess._n 5._o vers_fw-la 3._o when_o man_n say_v peace_n and_o safety_n then_o shall_v come_v upon_o they_o sudden_a destruction_n when_o the_o rich_a man_n have_v enlarge_v his_o barn_n upon_o the_o increase_n of_o his_o substance_n he_o promise_v to_o himself_o case_n and_o security_n say_v 1â—.20_n soul_n soul_n take_v thy_o rest_n etc._n etc._n but_o it_o be_v say_v unto_o he_o oh_o fool_n this_o night_n shall_v thy_o soul_n be_v take_v from_o thou_o and_o the_o 24.39_o old_a world_n know_v nothing_o till_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o destroy_v they_o all_o now_o if_o the_o want_n of_o watchfulness_n be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o destruction_n how_o great_a a_o cause_n have_v we_o to_o watch_v the_o second_o duty_n enjoin_v be_v to_o confirm_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n decay_v in_o they_o strengthen_v the_o thing_n which_o remain_v that_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v sundry_a be_v the_o grace_n which_o i_o have_v bestow_v on_o you_o but_o many_o be_v lose_v and_o go_v and_o those_o which_o remain_v be_v about_o to_o perish_v unless_o you_o confirm_v they_o therefore_o see_v now_o that_o you_o strengthen_v and_o repair_v the_o same_o in_o this_o duty_n christ_n teach_v this_o church_n and_o we_o a_o excellent_a lesson_n that_o whosoever_o have_v receive_v any_o gift_n of_o god_n must_v have_v care_n to_o preserve_v it_o and_o to_o make_v the_o same_o gift_n strong_a in_o he_o by_o continual_a increase_n if_o a_o man_n have_v receive_v knowledge_n faith_n and_o repentance_n or_o any_o other_o gift_n of_o grace_n he_o must_v not_o suffer_v the_o same_o to_o lie_v dead_a in_o he_o but_o stir_v up_o increase_n and_o confirm_v it_o daily_o that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o perfect_a man_n in_o christ._n for_o the_o gift_n which_o man_n have_v be_v not_o their_o own_o but_o god_n also_o who_o look_v to_o receive_v his_o own_o with_o advantage_n and_o therefore_o man_n like_o good_a steward_n must_v so_o use_v the_o gift_n receive_v that_o they_o may_v return_v they_o to_o god_n with_o increase_n thus_o paul_n persuade_v timothy_n 1.6_o stir_v up_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o for_o else_o the_o receiver_n be_v a_o unfaithful_a servant_n and_o so_o shall_v be_v reward_v and_o for_o the_o better_a performance_n of_o this_o duty_n we_o must_v often_o read_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o meditate_v therein_o we_o must_v hear_v it_o often_o preach_v and_o with_o due_a reverence_n and_o preparation_n receive_v the_o sacrament_n and_o pray_v continual_o strive_v earnest_o against_o the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o we_o and_o daily_o stir_v up_o our_o heart_n to_o all_o good_a duty_n thus_o do_v david_n check_v the_o corruption_n and_o deadness_n of_o his_o heart_n â—1_n why_o be_v thou_o so_o cast_v down_o oh_o my_o soul_n and_o also_o stir_v up_o the_o same_o unto_o all_o good_a duty_n say_v i_o have_v apply_v my_o heart_n to_o fulfil_v thy_o statute_n always_o even_o to_o the_o end_n ps._n 119.112_o hereby_o be_v reprove_v the_o common_a sort_n of_o professor_n &_o hearer_n of_o the_o word_n use_n who_o stand_v at_o a_o stay_n and_o go_v not_o forward_o in_o grace_n this_o be_v a_o great_a fault_n for_o as_o we_o have_v receive_v grace_n so_o we_o ought_v to_o stir_v up_o the_o same_o that_o we_o may_v confirm_v and_o increase_v it_o daily_o further_o christ_n add_v which_o be_v about_o to_o die_v where_o he_o answer_v to_o a_o question_n that_o be_v move_v by_o sundry_a at_o this_o day_n namely_o whether_o grace_n that_o concern_v salvation_n may_v be_v utter_o lose_v or_o not_o christ_n answer_v by_o a_o distinction_n that_o some_o grace_n that_o pertain_v to_o salvation_n may_v be_v lose_v quite_o and_o other_o may_v be_v decay_v so_o as_o they_o be_v about_o to_o die_v for_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o pertain_v to_o salvation_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a so_o as_o without_o they_o a_o man_n of_o year_n can_v be_v save_v and_o such_o be_v faith_n and_o regeneration_n other_o be_v less_o necessary_a which_o sometime_o go_v with_o faith_n but_o not_o always_o such_o be_v a_o plentiful_a feel_n of_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o boldness_n in_o prayer_n these_o may_v be_v lose_v whole_o for_o a_o time_n in_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n yea_o faith_n and_o regeneration_n themselves_o may_v decay_v grievous_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o diâ—_n as_o this_o text_n say_v second_o consider_v faith_n and_o regeneration_n in_o themselves_o and_o they_o may_v be_v whole_o lose_v for_o nothing_o in_o itself_o be_v unchangeable_a but_o god_n the_o state_n of_o the_o elect_a angel_n by_o nature_n be_v changeable_a for_o they_o stand_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n three_o these_o grace_n may_v perish_v and_o decay_v final_o unless_o thy_o bee_n confirm_v question_n why_o then_o do_v not_o the_o elect_v final_o fall_v away_o after_o their_o call_n ans._n their_o stand_n come_v not_o from_o the_o constancy_n of_o grace_n or_o faith_n but_o from_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n make_v unto_o they_o &_o to_o their_o faith_n so_o christ_n say_v to_o peter_n 1â—_n thou_o be_v peter_n and_o upon_o this_o rock_n that_o be_v upon_o thy_o faith_n which_o thou_o have_v profess_v will_v i_o build_v my_o temple_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o that_o be_v though_o they_o may_v assault_v it_o and_o grievous_o weaken_v it_o yet_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a final_o to_o overcome_v it_o use_n see_v sundry_a grace_n of_o god_n may_v be_v lose_v and_o the_o most_o necessary_a grace_n great_o decay_v yea_o of_o themselves_o quite_o die_v we_o that_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n any_o grace_n either_o of_o faith_n or_o repentance_n be_v hereby_o teach_v not_o to_o be_v presumptuous_a or_o over_o confident_a in_o our_o self_n but_o with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a work_n out_o our_o salvation_n philip_n 2.13_o the_o reason_n to_o enforce_v the_o former_a remedy_n be_v this_o for_o i_o have_v not_o find_v thy_o work_n perfect_a before_o god_n and_o therefore_o watch_v and_o confirm_v the_o decay_a grace_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o in_o this_o reason_n christ_n give_v they_o &_o we_o to_o understand_v that_o he_o make_v a_o search_n in_o his_o church_n of_o all_o the_o work_v that_o man_n do_v in_o the_o same_o that_o he_o may_v according_o reward_v they_o for_o not_o find_v do_v presuppose_v a_o search_n and_o so_o the_o