trust_v to_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n for_o the_o fulfil_n that_o his_o word_n now_o whereas_o it_o be_v object_v that_o no_o particular_a word_n speak_v to_o a_o particular_a soul_n and_o say_v thou_o thomas_n and_o thou_o john_n or_o thou_o elisabeth_n or_o thou_o marry_o shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n if_o thou_o will_v accept_v he_o 1._o i_o answer_v that_o either_o every_o particular_a be_v perfect_o comprehend_v in_o the_o universal_a offer_n and_o universal_a command_n of_o believe_v as_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v name_v every_o person_n to_o who_o he_o speak_v or_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o faith_n of_o assurance_n concern_v any_o gospel-truth_n whatever_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o assurance_n that_o our_o body_n shall_v rise_v again_o from_o the_o dust_n and_o appear_v before_o the_o judgement-seat_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o john_n or_o thou_o mary_n shall_v arise_v out_o of_o the_o dust_n again_o and_o come_v to_o judgement_n yet_o i_o suppose_v every_o one_o that_o have_v the_o least_o beam_n of_o spiritual_a light_n shine_v down_o into_o his_o soul_n will_v acknwledge_v that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n do_v reveal_v particular_o that_o this_o soul_n and_o that_o soul_n even_o his_o own_o soul_n shall_v arise_v from_o the_o dust_n and_o come_v to_o judgeman_n now_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o there_o be_v as_o clear_v a_o discovery_n in_o the_o write_a word_n to_o any_o particular_a soul_n faith_n of_o his_o certain_a resurrection_n from_o the_o dead_a and_o come_n to_o judgement_n 2._o either_o all_o those_o particular_n be_v to_o be_v full_o comprehend_v in_o that_o universal_a offer_n and_o universal_a unlimited_a command_n of_o believe_v or_o else_o there_o be_v no_o obedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n command_v to_o any_o particular_a soul_n whatever_o nor_o no_o disobedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reprove_v it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o john_n shall_v worship_v the_o lord_n in_o prayer_n it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o mary_n shall_v receive_v i_o as_o thy_o only_a god_n and_o worship_v i_o only_o likewise_o no_o disobedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v reprove_v it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n shall_v not_o steal_v thou_o john_n shall_v not_o lie_v thou_o mary_n shall_v not_o commit_v adultery_n yet_o i_o conceive_v thou_o who_o believe_a disposition_n be_v most_o out_o of_o exercise_n at_o present_a dare_v not_o say_v god_n have_v not_o say_v to_o thy_o soul_n do_v not_o steal_v do_v not_o lie_v that_o god_n have_v not_o command_v thou_o to_o worship_v he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n appoint_v so_o that_o it_o be_v clear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v reveal_v to_o particular_a soul_n undoubted_o their_o certain_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o case_n they_o accept_v he_o second_o the_o precious_a write_a word_n of_o god_n reveal_v unto_o particular_a soul_n sense_n their_o particular_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v to_o say_v whenever_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n send_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v irradiate_a the_o precious_a write_a word_n of_o god_n so_o as_o to_o make_v its_o own_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v into_o a_o dark_a heart_n and_o also_o irradiate_a at_o the_o same_o time_n or_o cast_v beam_n of_o light_n upon_o the_o precious_a believe_a act_n that_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v beget_v in_o that_o soul_n than_o that_o light_n that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n hold_v forth_o particular_o declare_v to_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n its_o certain_a actual_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o the_o sense_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o these_o two_o way_n 1._o in_o its_o general_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v from_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o write_a word_n describe_v the_o nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v in_o general_a and_o declare_v that_o believe_a act_n to_o be_v require_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n from_o every_o soul_n that_o write_v word_n of_o god_n do_v particular_o reveal_v unto_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n sense_n his_o actual_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o thus_o the_o write_a word_n of_o the_o lord_n describe_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o believe_a act_n to_o be_v a_o come_n to_o jesus_n christ_n mat._n 11.28_o to_o be_v receive_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n that_o he_o give_v concern_v his_o son_n sell_v to_o its_o seal_n that_o god_n be_v true_a john_n 3.33_o a_o receive_v the_o record_n that_o god_n have_v give_v of_o his_o son_n 1_o john_n 5.7_o 8_o 9_o to_o be_v a_o receive_n of_o christ_n himself_o john_n 1.12_o to_o be_v a_o will_n in_o the_o soul_n concur_v with_o what_o the_o lord_n tender_v rev._n 22.17_o now_o i_o say_v in_o the_o spirit_n describe_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n the_o lord_n require_v it_o do_v speak_v particular_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n when_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o evidence_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o declare_v the_o soul_n certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n as_o thus_o the_o spirit_n have_v first_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v have_v sweet_o encourage_v the_o soul_n yea_o powerful_o irresistible_o effectual_o command_v the_o soul_n to_o set_v to_o his_o seal_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v true_a and_o to_o say_v lord_n be_v it_o unto_o thy_o servant_n as_o thou_o have_v speak_v then_o the_o same_o spirit_n irradiate_v that_o write_a word_n that_o describe_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o the_o believe_a act_n let_v the_o soul_n discern_v that_o the_o believe_a act_n be_v a_o sweet_a consent_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o he_o to_o reconcile_v the_o father_n and_o he_o and_o then_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_v also_o the_o precious_a consent_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n that_o holy_a trust_n and_o confidence_n that_o be_v then_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o then_o the_o write_a word_n say_v particular_o that_o thou_o do_v consent_v to_o accept_v of_o what_o the_o lord_n thus_o tender_v in_o christ_n to_o thou_o thou_o be_v certain_o and_o everlasting_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thou_o be_v he_o who_o do_v receive_v what_o the_o lord_n have_v propound_v in_o christ_n so_o thou_o and_o therefore_o thou_o be_v certain_o lodge_v in_o the_o everlasting_a arm_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o the_o second_o way_n that_o the_o write_a word_n dclare_v unto_o the_o particular_a soul_n sense_n his_o particular_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v by_o its_o description_n of_o the_o constant_a certain_a and_o inseparable_a operation_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n describe_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n or_o describe_v the_o various_a effect_n of_o faith_n 1._o by_o the_o write_a word_n declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v by_o love_n to_o jesus_n christ_n gal._n 5.6_o 2._o by_o declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v to_o abase_v the_o soul_n in_o itself_o and_o make_v it_o altogether_o nothing_o rom._n 3.27_o 3._o the_o scripture_n do_v declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v by_o purify_n the_o heart_n cleanse_v it_o from_o all_o unholy_a disposition_n acts._n 15_o 9_o 4._o in_o declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o high_a and_o unspeakable_a estimation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o now_o thus_o the_o write_a word_n declare_v the_o proper_a manner_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o faith_n do_v declare_v particular_o unto_o any_o particular_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o same_o write_a word_n declare_v that_o in_o whatever_o heart_n the_o believe_a disposition_n thus_o particular_o work_v there_o be_v that_o precious_a believe_a act_n the_o lord_n require_v there_o be_v that_o precious_a faith_n unfeigned_a that_o jesus_n christ_n command_v in_o his_o precious_a gospel_n and_o so_o it_o speak_v particular_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n thou_o do_v believe_v with_o that_o precious_a faith_n unfeigned_a that_o jesus_n christ_n require_v and_o thus_o the_o spirit_n do_v but_o make_v this_o write_a word_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o the_o soul_n understanding_n what_o it_o do_v always_o speak_v in_o itself_o which_o be_v that_o that_o particular_a soul_n do_v now_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n so_o
then_o doleful_a weakness_n yea_o abhor_a wickedness_n in_o any_o soul_n to_o cast_v off_o all_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n admission_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n though_o the_o oratory_n light_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n or_o the_o superadded_a light_n to_o the_o word_n that_o cause_v the_o word_n to_o give_v so_o clear_a and_o satisfy_v a_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v withdraw_v and_o suspend_v yet_o there_o be_v a_o heavenly_a shine_a burn_a lamp_n of_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n that_o stand_v constant_o shine_v to_o discover_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o open_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o his_o outstretch_a arm_n ready_a to_o grasp_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v dreadful_a horrid_a wickedness_n for_o any_o soul_n to_o neglect_v slight_a undervalue_n or_o disregard_n the_o light_n of_o that_o precious_a write_a word_n because_o those_o heavenly_a beam_n of_o superadded_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n sometime_o give_v be_v by_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o through_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o iniquity_n sometime_o suspend_v the_o command_n of_o believe_v stand_v as_o a_o everlasting_a command_n found_v and_o build_v upon_o the_o mere_a write_a word_n make_v a_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v every_o lose_v perish_v soul_n that_o will_v to_o be_v reconcile_v 1_o john_n 3.23_o now_o thence_o it_o be_v most_o wretched_a disobedience_n in_o any_o soul_n when_o he_o have_v lose_v that_o glorious_a light_n of_o manifestation_n from_o the_o spirit_n to_o disobey_v that_o precious_a heavenly_a command_n also_o prop._n 2._o second_o whenever_o any_o soul_n subject_n himself_o to_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o unbelief_n that_o still_o dwell_v in_o he_o upon_o the_o lord_n withdraw_v the_o brightness_n and_o glory_n of_o that_o satisfy_a light_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o cast_v off_o his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n admission_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n than_o the_o soul_n be_v uncapable_a while_o he_o so_o remain_v of_o make_v any_o precious_a holy_a use_n of_o those_o former_a evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n enjoy_v of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n 1._o in_o regard_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v there_o can_v be_v no_o holy_a conception_n of_o the_o evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n do_v former_o enjoy_v first_o take_v holiness_n for_o all_o kind_n of_o strictness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n and_o in_o that_o sense_n there_o can_v be_v no_o righteous_a conception_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n can_v understand_v they_o what_o they_o be_v nor_o discern_v they_o as_o they_o be_v second_o take_v holiness_n effective_o for_o these_o conception_n that_o do_v excite_v and_o quicken_v a_o believe_a soul_n unto_o holy_a act_n and_o in_o that_o sense_n there_o can_v be_v no_o holy_a conception_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v all_o such_o conception_n or_o apprehension_n of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n towards_o we_o be_v as_o holy_a effective_o that_o be_v that_o produce_v or_o quicken_v a_o soul_n to_o holiness_n be_v such_o as_o do_v apprehend_v some_o beam_n of_o excellency_n shine_v forth_o from_o those_o way_n of_o god_n in_o relation_n to_o that_o particular_a soul_n good_a now_o while_o a_o soul_n cast_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n he_o can_v conceive_v of_o his_o former_a evidence_n in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o to_o conceive_v any_o beam_n of_o excellency_n shine_v forth_o from_o god_n in_o relation_n to_o his_o particular_a soul_n 2._o while_o any_o heart_n so_o remain_v he_o be_v uncapable_a of_o make_v a_o holy_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n in_o regard_n the_o activity_n of_o all_o holy_a affection_n whatever_o depend_v upon_o the_o activity_n of_o that_o believe_a disposition_n they_o live_v and_o die_v together_o the_o move_a principle_n that_o move_v holy_a affection_n objective_o be_v the_o believe_a conception_n and_o apprehension_n of_o god_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v the_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o he_o through_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o therefore_o while_o a_o soul_n cast_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o admit_v his_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v a_o defect_n of_o move_a principle_n to_o move_v the_o affection_n to_o their_o exercise_n and_o so_o consequent_o there_o can_v be_v no_o activity_n of_o any_o precious_a holy_a affection_n 3._o in_o regard_v all_o the_o ordinance_n that_o shall_v excite_v and_o quicken_v the_o heart_n to_o the_o holy_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n be_v make_v useless_a while_o the_o soul_n enslave_v himself_o to_o carnal_a reason_n through_o unbelief_n not_o believe_v god_n will_v to_o make_v he_o one_o with_o jesus_n christ_n though_o the_o gospel_n shall_v be_v preach_v by_o the_o mouth_n of_o angel_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v send_v from_o heaven_n to_o be_v mouth_n to_o those_o soul_n in_o prayer_n yet_o those_o ordinance_n can_v have_v no_o operation_n upon_o those_o soul_n say_v the_o apostle_n heb._n 4.2_o the_o word_n that_o be_v preach_v profit_v not_o because_o it_o be_v not_o mix_v with_o faith_n in_o they_o that_o hear_v it_o if_o there_o be_v not_o some_o degree_n of_o confidence_n in_o that_o great_a and_o grand_a gospel-truth_n to_o the_o particular_a soul_n there_o can_v be_v no_o mix_v faith_n with_o any_o other_o gospel-truth_n that_o shall_v be_v preach_v so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o have_v a_o precious_a efficacy_n upon_o the_o heart_n 4._o when_o any_o heart_n yield_v up_o himself_o captive_a to_o unbelieving_a reason_n and_o so_o cast_v off_o all_o that_o his_o precious_a confidence_n it_o can_v make_v a_o believe_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o continual_a decrease_n in_o all_o holiness_n and_o increase_v in_o all_o the_o work_n of_o corruption_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v the_o heart_n be_v so_o natural_o active_a that_o it_o will_v be_v spend_v its_o strength_n in_o some_o kind_n of_o activity_n or_o other_o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o forename_a precious_a confidence_n be_v seal_v the_o heart_n will_v spend_v all_o its_o strength_n in_o corrupt_a working_n when_o the_o heavenly_a plant_n of_o faith_n do_v not_o grow_v and_o flourish_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o weed_n that_o come_v from_o the_o devil_n garden_n will_v be_v all_o flourish_a hardness_n indisposition_n for_o god_n hard_a thought_n of_o god_n will_v all_o be_v augment_v daily_o prop._n 3._o three_o no_o soul_n ought_v to_o entertain_v such_o a_o superlative_a conceit_n of_o the_o use_n of_o those_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o former_o receive_v that_o he_o shall_v make_v those_o his_o evidence_n the_o sole_a or_o the_o primary_n or_o the_o principal_a prop_n or_o pillar_n whereupon_o he_o build_v his_o confidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v admit_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o utmost_a use_n intend_v by_o god_n that_o believe_v soul_n shall_v make_v of_o former_a evidence_n receive_v can_v be_v but_o strengthning_n and_o encouragement_n to_o renew_v the_o strength_n of_o their_o confidence_n in_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n to_o fulfil_v his_o bless_a word_n unto_o their_o soul_n it_o be_v utter_o strange_a from_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n that_o soul_n shall_v make_v any_o one_o act_n of_o god_n towards_o or_o in_o the_o soul_n the_o principal_a pillar_n rock_n and_o foundation_n whereupon_o to_o build_v its_o hope_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n all_o those_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n whether_o by_o way_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n or_o by_o way_n of_o infusion_n of_o holiness_n they_o be_v mere_o arbitrary_a except_v only_o the_o spirit_n constant_a influence_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o life_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n and_o consequent_o changeable_a and_o various_a according_a as_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o heaven_n do_v see_v suitable_a for_o the_o estate_n of_o various_a soul_n but_o now_o the_o lord_n out_o of_o that_o transcendent_a riches_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n have_v prepare_v unchangeable_a rock_n where_o the_o prime_a anchor_n of_o believe_a soul_n hope_v shall_v be_v fasten_v unmoving_a pillar_n that_o never_o shake_v whereupon_o the_o foundation_n of_o their_o confidence_n must_v be_v lay_v according_a
be_v real_o from_o god_n now_o i_o beseech_v you_o every_o soul_n believe_v or_o unbelieve_a remember_v as_o far_o as_o possible_a all_o the_o consideration_n that_o have_v be_v premise_v about_o this_o question_n and_o withal_o these_o fix_a and_o establish_v in_o your_o mind_n proceed_v with_o i_o to_o make_v a_o righteous_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n that_o you_o conceive_v your_o soul_n have_v receive_v of_o your_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o then_o all_o these_o consideration_n premise_v our_o question_n propound_v must_v be_v thus_o staâ—ed_v quest_n how_o shall_v any_o soul_n that_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v and_o do_v actual_o enjoy_v certain_a and_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n demonstrate_v from_o certain_a necessary_a and_o evident_a reason_n that_o those_o his_o evidence_n be_v real_o from_o god_n answ_n for_o answer_v then_o direct_o to_o the_o question_n there_o be_v but_o two_o kind_n of_o demonstration_n 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word_n which_o he_o take_v for_o the_o end_n of_o write_v these_o holy_a scripture_n and_o that_o be_v the_o perfect_a the_o man_n of_o god_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v furnish_v unto_o all_o perfection_n ii_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v the_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o the_o write_a word_n in_o regard_n the_o write_a word_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v give_v by_o god_n himself_o as_o a_o everlasting_a unchangeable_a rule_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o truth_n and_o falsehood_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o when_o he_o be_v to_o make_v it_o manifest_a to_o the_o unbelieve_a jew_n that_o he_o himself_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n he_o fetch_v his_o high_a testimony_n from_o the_o write_a word_n as_o you_o may_v observe_v john_n 5._o in_o compare_v for_o 31_o and_o so_o on_o and_o ver_fw-la 39_o together_o he_o tell_v they_o he_o will_v not_o bear_v witness_n of_o himself_o lest_o his_o witness_n 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he_o persuade_v they_o concern_v jesus_n both_o out_o of_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o out_o of_o the_o prophet_n acts._n 28.23_o and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o in_o act_n 17.11_o that_o those_o man_n of_o berea_n preach_v by_o search_v the_o scripture_n daily_o whether_o those_o thing_n be_v so_o second_o it_o must_v be_v clear_v that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n do_v particular_o reveal_v unto_o believe_a soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n both_o unto_o their_o faith_n and_o unto_o their_o sense_n first_o it_o do_v reveal_v particular_o unto_o their_o faith_n their_o infallible_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o appear_v in_o regard_n the_o lord_n testimony_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v every_o soul_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v absolute_o universal_a without_o the_o least_o acceptation_n or_o limitation_n so_o that_o it_o comprehend_v every_o particular_a soul_n whatever_o to_o who_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v 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that_o thence_o it_o appear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v speak_v and_o declare_v as_o particular_o to_o a_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o if_o it_o do_v speak_v to_o any_o soul_n by_o name_n for_o that_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n or_o knowledge_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n in_o believe_v the_o write_a worb_n speak_v as_o plain_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n sense_n and_o knowledge_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v declare_v to_o he_o that_o he_o do_v particular_o believe_v as_o it_o do_v declare_v to_o any_o particular_a rebellious_a obstinate_a sinner_n that_o he_o particular_o do_v sin_n the_o word_n say_v whosoever_o walk_v thus_o or_o thus_o transgress_v the_o will_n of_o god_n now_o this_o speak_v to_o every_o particular_a soul_n so_o sin_v que._n but_o the_o soul_n may_v say_v how_o can_v a_o soul_n know_v 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be_v not_o delude_v then_o see_v whether_o that_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o your_o soul_n have_v shine_v from_o the_o lord_n write_v word_n yet_o let_v i_o add_v a_o caution_n in_o this_o lest_o i_o may_v possible_o shake_v some_o soul_n into_o who_o heart_n some_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n have_v real_o descend_v to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o the_o light_n that_o do_v shine_v into_o every_o soul_n which_o true_o proceed_v from_o god_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v and_o aught_o to_o shine_v forth_o from_o the_o lord_n write_v word_n yet_o i_o dare_v not_o affirm_v that_o whenever_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n do_v discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n clear_o both_o to_o faith_n and_o sense_n that_o then_o the_o spirit_n fasten_v some_o particular_a portion_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n by_o name_n from_o such_o a_o chapter_n and_o verse_n from_o whence_o the_o 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word_n as_o will_v sufficient_o testify_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v so_o reveal_v to_o his_o soul_n from_o the_o word_n yet_o observe_v this_o that_o the_o soul_n must_v then_o so_o deliberate_a and_o so_o consult_v with_o his_o heart_n about_o the_o matter_n while_o the_o heavenly_a lustre_n and_o command_a power_n of_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n remain_v shine_v into_o his_o soul_n for_o in_o case_n the_o soul_n be_v bereave_v again_o upon_o any_o occasion_n of_o the_o lustre_n and_o glory_n of_o those_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n the_o soul_n may_v so_o far_o forget_v the_o very_a sentence_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n do_v then_o dictate_v to_o it_o that_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o darkness_n and_o obscurity_n that_o pass_v upon_o he_o immediate_o again_o may_v for_o the_o present_a be_v uncapable_a of_o discern_v in_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n what_o his_o soul_n clear_o discern_v in_o the_o same_o word_n former_o that_o the_o soul_n may_v in_o case_n the_o spirit_n of_o light_n shall_v absent_v itself_o long_o perchance_o begin_v to_o draw_v some_o sad_a conclusion_n that_o the_o evidence_n that_o the_o soul_n receive_v be_v not_o a_o light_n shine_v from_o the_o lord_n word_n but_o some_o delusion_n from_o the_o devil_n transform_v himself_o into_o angelical_a glory_n this_o be_v the_o second_o reason_n whence_o a_o soul_n may_v prove_v that_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n receive_v be_v from_o god_n when_o the_o soul_n discern_v it_o to_o shine_v from_o the_o write_a word_n the_o second_o sort_n of_o demonstration_n whereby_o a_o soul_n may_v prove_v to_o himself_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n must_v be_v a_o demonstration_n a_o posteriori_fw-la a_o demonstration_n take_v from_o the_o effect_n that_o those_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o the_o soul_n discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n do_v beget_v in_o the_o soul_n now_o all_o the_o effect_n that_o any_o thing_n that_o proceed_v from_o god_n beget_v in_o believe_v soul_n be_v but_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o lord_n eternal_a intent_n they_o be_v but_o the_o production_n of_o the_o lord_n precious_a thought_n of_o love_n towards_o those_o believe_a soul_n from_o before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v so_o that_o whatever_o be_v communicate_v to_o any_o believe_a soul_n if_o it_o do_v demonstrate_v itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o god_n by_o its_o effect_n that_o it_o beget_v in_o he_o it_o must_v then_o conduce_v in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o lord_n precious_a eternal_a will_n towards_o that_o believe_a soul_n now_o those_o eternal_a intent_n of_o god_n towards_o believe_v soul_n they_o may_v be_v reduce_v to_o three_o head_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n sum_v they_o in_o 1_o cor._n 3.22_o 23._o all_o be_v you_o whether_o paul_n or_o apollo_n or_o cephas_n or_o the_o world_n or_o life_n or_o death_n or_o thing_n present_a or_o thing_n to_o come_v that_o be_v heaven_n and_o earth_n all_o be_v you_o that_o be_v destinate_a unto_o your_o good_a to_o accomplish_v your_o salvation_n and_o you_o be_v christ_n that_o be_v you_o believe_v soul_n be_v destinate_a to_o accomplish_v the_o glory_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o christ_n be_v god_n that_o be_v christ_n himself_o consider_v mystical_o as_o the_o mediator_n be_v appoint_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o father_n glory_n for_o the_o exaltation_n of_o he_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o saint_n and_o angel_n and_o before_o the_o eye_n of_o all_o the_o world_n so_o as_o all_o may_v admire_v he_o and_o adore_v he_o there_o be_v three_o intent_n and_o precious_a end_n of_o the_o lord_n from_o eternity_n towards_o those_o believe_a soul_n first_o there_o be_v the_o accomplshment_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o those_o believe_a soul_n second_o the_o perfect_a of_o christ_n supernatural_a glory_n as_o he_o be_v mediator_n and_o three_o the_o perfect_a manifestation_n of_o the_o father_n glory_n through_o both_o these_o and_o therefore_o see_v these_o three_o be_v those_o prime_a and_o principal_a end_n the_o very_a ultimate_a end_n of_o god_n the_o very_a sum_n and_o compendium_n of_o all_o those_o precious_a thought_n that_o wrought_v in_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v thence_o whatsoever_o proceed_v from_o god_n into_o a_o believe_a soul_n must_v in_o some_o degree_n or_o other_o tend_v towards_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o one_o of_o those_o end_n so_o that_o it_o must_v demonstrate_v itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o god_n by_o one_o of_o those_o three_o effect_n if_o it_o any_o way_n can_v be_v prove_v by_o its_o effect_n to_o proceed_v from_o god_n himself_o only_o by_o the_o way_n you_o must_v take_v this_o distinction_n for_o prevention_n of_o mistake_n the_o deal_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o saint_n do_v either_o immediate_o to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o the_o exaltation_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o father_n glory_n or_o else_o they_o tend_v immediate_o the_o lord_n promissive_a will_n or_o the_o lord_n sufferance_n of_o a_o believer_n to_o sin_n do_v not_o immediate_o manifest_v any_o of_o these_o yet_o mediate_o it_o do_v perfect_a all_o that_o when_o the_o lord_n do_v suffer_v the_o soul_n to_o slide_v and_o fall_v yet_o then_o through_o the_o mighty_a power_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n in_o christ_n he_o do_v send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n so_o to_o work_v in_o that_o believe_a soul_n that_o those_o very_a fall_n and_o slip_n and_o backslide_n of_o that_o believe_a soul_n shall_v produce_v more_o watchfulness_n over_o his_o own_o way_n more_o charity_n towards_o other_o more_o abomination_n of_o those_o
act_v by_o his_o own_o power_n the_o divine_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n p._n 233._o 2._o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o promise_n or_o of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n diverse_a thing_n in_o the_o promise_n or_o in_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n when_o it_o be_v reveal_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o be_v clear_a in_o many_o particular_n from_o p._n 234._o to_o 340._o the_o first_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n p._n 236._o a_o second_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n p._n 254._o a_o three_o p._n 262._o a_o four_o p._n 267._o a_o five_o p._n 269._o a_o six_o p._n 274._o the_o security_n give_v to_o soul_n from_o the_o covenant_n oath_n seal_n p._n 274._o from_o the_o many_o engagement_n upon_o god_n himself_o p._n 305._o 3._o the_o spirit_n conviction_n of_o the_o conscience_n p._n 340._o what_o conscience_n be_v the_o two_o most_o eminent_a work_n of_o conscience_n the_o spirit_n excitation_n of_o the_o habit_n of_o grace_n former_o infuse_v into_o their_o proper_a exercise_n p._n 345._o what_o the_o spirit_n excitatjoin_v be_v p._n 350._o 5._o the_o spirit_n attestation_n or_o witness_n unto_o the_o soul_n both_o its_o attestation_n to_o sense_n and_o to_o faith_n p._n 355._o to_o 392._o quest_n how_o soul_n that_o conceive_v themselves_o to_o have_v receive_v certain_a and_o satisfy_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v know_v certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n and_o not_o a_o diabolical_a enthusiasm_n or_o inspiration_n or_o a_o delusion_n by_o the_o devil_n translation_n of_o himself_o into_o angelical_a glory_n p._n 392._o several_a thing_n concern_v diabolical_a inspiration_n p._n 393._o the_o ground_n of_o the_o different_a act_n of_o the_o devil_n policy_n towards_o believer_n and_o unbeliever_n p._n 406._o quest_n can_v the_o devil_n look_v into_o the_o understanding_n of_o man_n to_o know_v what_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v p._n 425._o 2._o satan_n power_n upon_o the_o conscience_n p._n 431._o 3._o satan_n power_n upon_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n p._n 436._o premise_n about_o a_o soul_n trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n receive_v whether_o it_o it_o be_v from_o god_n or_o be_v a_o diabolical_a inspiration_n p._n 437._o four_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a to_o believe_v soul_n when_o doubtful_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidenc_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o do_v incapacitate_v for_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o true_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n p_o 445._o quest_n if_o soul_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o impatiency_n rashness_n irrational_a affection_n prejudicial_a conceit_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o under_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a for_o a_o right_a trial_n of_o their_o evidence_n then_o what_o suitable_a mean_n remain_v for_o such_o soul_n in_o these_o sad_a condition_n under_o fear_n that_o their_o eaidence_n be_v delusion_n answer_n p._n 455._o if_o the_o examination_n can_v only_o be_v take_v from_o those_o evidence_n which_o remain_v in_o their_o perspicity_n clearness_n and_o sanctify_a power_n then_o quest_n what_o use_n can_v soul_n make_v of_o the_o evidence_n they_o conceive_v they_o have_v receive_v of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n when_o the_o lustre_n and_o orient_a brightness_n of_o their_o evidence_n be_v eclipse_v p._n 472._o answer_v in_o 4_o proposition_n six_o holy_a use_v the_o soul_n be_v to_o make_v for_o former_a evidence_n p._n 479._o nine_o argument_n from_o former_a evidence_n to_o plead_v with_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n p._n 483._o from_o all_o those_o consideration_n the_o question_n be_v thus_o state_v quest_n how_o shall_v any_o soul_n that_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v and_o do_v actual_o enjoy_v certain_a and_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n demonstrate_v from_o certain_a necessary_a and_o evident_a reason_n that_o those_o his_o evidence_n be_v real_o from_o god_n p._n 491._o answ_n there_o be_v but_o two_o kind_n of_o demonstration_n 1._o the_o first_o and_o most_o certain_a ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o cause_n now_o there_o be_v but_o two_o principal_a cause_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n both_o which_o concur_v together_o and_o be_v never_o separate_v one_o from_o another_o that_o be_v the_o lord_n bless_v write_v word_n and_o that_o precious_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ._n that_o the_o first_o primary_n and_o principal_a reason_n from_o whence_o a_o soul_n may_v conclude_v that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n be_v that_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n do_v proceed_v from_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n two_o thing_n open_v to_o clear_v this_o 1._o that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n to_o evidence_n to_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v evidence_n itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n p._n 493._o 2._o that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o that_o spirit_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o most_o potent_a invincible_a demonstration_n of_o its_o own_o proceed_n from_o god_n p._n 499._o the_o second_o instrumental_a cause_n that_o shine_v into_o any_o heart_n real_o from_o god_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o lord_n precious_a word_n p._n 502._o where_o be_v clear_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n p._n 512._o 2._o the_o second_o sort_n of_o demonstration_n a_o posterioti_fw-la take_v from_o the_o effect_n five_o act_n in_o believe_a soul_n whereby_o they_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n soul_n confident_a they_o shall_v be_v everlasting_o save_v by_o christ_n put_v upon_o it_o to_o search_v into_o their_o heart_n and_o serious_o lay_v six_o thing_n before_o they_o to_o consider_v of_o a_o treatise_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n etc._n etc._n ephes_n 1.10_o that_o in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n he_o may_v gather_v together_o in_o one_o all_o thing_n in_o christ_n both_o which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n even_o in_o he_o the_o apostle_n take_v care_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n after_o his_o departure_n from_o it_o write_v this_o epistle_n for_o the_o establish_n their_o heart_n in_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a grace_n in_o christ_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v their_o soul_n partaker_n of_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v excite_v and_o quicken_v they_o to_o all_o suitable_a walk_n to_o such_o privilege_n this_o be_v his_o scope_n in_o this_o first_o chapter_n the_o apostle_n begin_v to_o reckon_v up_o all_o those_o glorious_a privilege_n 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gracious_a etc._n etc._n use_v i._o by_o way_n of_o information_n be_v it_o thus_o that_o the_o lord_n intent_n and_o purpose_n in_o reveal_v the_o precious_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o draw_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o then_o hence_o we_o may_v see_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o doleful_a dreadful_a and_o too_o too_o common_a abuse_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n how_o be_v the_o gospel_n tread_v under_o foot_n by_o a_o multitude_n of_o soul_n how_o far_o do_v they_o come_v short_a when_o they_o come_v to_o attend_v upon_o gospel_n ordinance_n how_o few_o consider_v that_o christ_n have_v appoint_v his_o ordinance_n to_o draw_v their_o wretched_a corrupt_a obstinate_a heart_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o consider_v the_o neglect_n of_o desire_v a_o conformity_n to_o this_o intent_n of_o god_n in_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o profanation_n of_o the_o precious_a ordinance_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o pollution_n of_o the_o great_a name_n of_o god_n in_o his_o ordinance_n 2._o consider_v what_o a_o mockery_n and_o dissimulation_n thy_o attendance_n upon_o the_o gospel_n have_v be_v unto_o god_n every_o ordinance_n of_o god_n be_v appoint_v for_o god_n to_o be_v worship_v in_o and_o thou_o by_o thy_o attend_v upon_o a_o ordinance_n profess_v thou_o do_v worship_n god_n now_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o worship_n god_n whilst_o he_o be_v ignorant_a or_o regardless_o of_o the_o intent_n of_o god_n in_o a_o ordinance_n 3._o thy_o neglect_n of_o this_o great_a intent_n of_o god_n in_o his_o ordinance_n be_v a_o direct_a contrary_a walk_v unto_o god_n in_o come_v to_o a_o ordinance_n thou_o do_v come_v with_o some_o intent_n or_o other_o it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o a_o rational_a creature_n upon_o a_o deliberate_a act_n to_o work_v for_o some_o end_n now_o if_o thou_o do_v always_o come_v with_o a_o intent_n and_o have_v neglect_v the_o intent_n of_o god_n it_o follow_v direct_o it_o be_v a_o contrary_n walk_v to_o 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scripture_n be_v it_o be_v nothing_o but_o this_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n make_v one_o it_o be_v christ_n alone_o that_o be_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n of_o the_o scripture_n therefore_o hence_o we_o may_v learn_v how_o to_o read_v and_o hear_v the_o scripture_n the_o way_n be_v to_o make_v christ_n the_o punctum_fw-la the_o centre_n of_o every_o line_n that_o when_o we_o find_v nothing_o of_o christ_n we_o be_v far_o from_o read_v the_o scripture_n look_v upon_o the_o type_n ceremony_n genealogy_n all_o lead_n to_o christ_n vii_o hence_o learn_v what_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o those_o infinite_a wise_a counsel_n of_o god_n from_o before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v what_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o angel_n desire_v to_o pry_v into_o the_o end_n of_o all_o be_v to_o bring_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n viii_o hence_o learn_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o near_a sympathy_n of_o affection_n between_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o those_o soul_n upon_o who_o the_o gospel_n have_v have_v its_o right_a effect_n why_o be_v christ_n honour_n the_o soul_n honour_n and_o christ_n advancement_n the_o soul_n advancement_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o affliction_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v christ_n affliction_n the_o dishonour_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v christ_n dishonour_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o nearness_n of_o relation_n there_o will_v be_v a_o nearness_n of_o affection_n ix_o hence_o learn_v the_o intrinsical_a specifical_a difference_n between_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o preach_v of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o draw_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o manifest_a communion_n between_o soul_n and_o christ_n already_o unite_v 1_o cor._n 10_o 16._o thence_o it_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n to_o be_v make_v between_o person_n that_o partake_v of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n though_o not_o of_o those_o that_o partake_v of_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o gospel_n every_o soul_n be_v a_o suitable_a subject_n to_o have_v the_o gospel_n preach_v because_o every_o soul_n by_o nature_n be_v a_o separate_a soul_n and_o therefore_o have_v need_n to_o be_v bring_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o only_o some_o few_o soul_n that_o be_v suitable_a subject_n may_v partake_v of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o gospel_n because_o they_o be_v those_o that_o do_v manifest_a a_o soul_n to_o have_v communion_n therefore_o they_o presuppose_v union_n use_v ii_o the_o second_o use_n be_v a_o word_n of_o admonition_n see_v the_o purpose_n of_o god_n in_o reveal_v gospel_n truth_n be_v to_o gather_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n let_v this_o warn_v every_o soul_n from_o heaven_n to_o take_v heed_n how_o he_o hear_v the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o be_v a_o good_a caution_n the_o holy_a ghost_n give_v eccl._n 5.1_o keep_v thy_o foot_n when_o thou_o go_v to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n he_o mean_v take_v heed_n and_o watch_v over_o the_o affection_n intent_n and_o purpose_n of_o your_o soul_n when_o you_o approach_v near_o to_o god_n in_o any_o duty_n of_o his_o worship_n then_o beware_v your_o affection_n swerve_v not_o from_o god_n there_o be_v three_o great_a miscarriage_n in_o come_v to_o gospel_n ordinance_n 1._o a_o carelessness_n and_o mindlesness_n of_o the_o nature_n end_n and_o effect_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n in_o approach_v to_o they_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o most_o soul_n in_o a_o congregation_n as_o of_o those_o act_n 19.32_o in_o that_o great_a assembly_n the_o most_o part_n know_v not_o wherefore_o they_o be_v come_v together_o consider_v of_o two_o thing_n in_o this_o wretched_a miscarriage_n of_o heart_n in_o attend_v upon_o the_o gospel_n first_o this_o heedless_a frame_n of_o spirit_n be_v a_o contempt_n of_o god_n himself_o when_o the_o great_a god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n send_v a_o precious_a embassage_n to_o thy_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n and_o cry_v to_o thou_o come_v and_o be_v one_o with_o i_o in_o a_o mediator_n and_o thou_o sit_v careless_o neither_o mind_v nor_o regard_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o embassage_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o thou_o to_o cast_v high_a contempt_n upon_o god_n second_o it_o be_v the_o high_a indignity_n and_o affront_n that_o can_v be_v offer_v in_o that_o kind_n to_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n 2._o the_o second_o great_a miscarriage_n of_o heart_n be_v the_o take_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o attain_v other_o end_n by_o gospel_n
open_v and_o that_o be_v this_o que._n 3._o to_o what_o purpose_n be_v all_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o quality_n inherent_a in_o soul_n and_o to_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o heart_n see_v union_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v from_o they_o answ_n 1._o for_o answer_v first_o there_o be_v no_o promise_n the_o lord_n make_v to_o any_o quality_n inherent_a in_o a_o soul_n as_o a_o condition_n upon_o which_o the_o promise_n shall_v be_v fulfil_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v there_o be_v no_o promise_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v to_o any_o quality_n so_o or_o in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o upon_o the_o lord_n behold_v that_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n he_o shall_v repute_v himself_o bind_v to_o fulfil_v that_o promise_n or_o to_o convey_v that_o mercy_n include_v in_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n nor_o do_v the_o be_v of_o the_o quality_n lie_v any_o such_o engagement_n upon_o god_n to_o perform_v it_o every_o promise_n be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o in_o christ_n for_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o bundle_n of_o promise_n all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n bind_v up_o in_o one_o be_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n so_o that_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n consist_v of_o so_o many_o article_n of_o agreement_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n shall_v prove_v no_o covenant_n of_o grace_n if_o any_o of_o those_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o a_o quality_n as_o a_o condition_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n be_v bind_v to_o perform_v the_o promise_n ans_fw-fr 2._o second_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n to_o quality_n inherent_a in_o soul_n be_v not_o make_v to_o quality_n as_o quality_n that_o be_v not_o as_o they_o be_v good_a disposition_n and_o good_a inclination_n not_o as_o they_o be_v work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n beget_v in_o such_o soul_n all_o inherent_a quality_n in_o soul_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v under_o a_o twofold_a notion_n either_o as_o they_o be_v quality_n that_o be_v as_o they_o be_v affection_n and_o disposition_n in_o a_o soul_n or_o they_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o they_o put_v a_o soul_n into_o such_o a_o state_n or_o condition_n as_o they_o make_v a_o soul_n either_o in_o a_o good_a condition_n or_o a_o bad_a condition_n now_o no_o soul_n may_v look_v upon_o any_o one_o promise_n that_o god_n have_v make_v to_o any_o one_o quality_n and_o look_v upon_o that_o quality_n in_o his_o heart_n as_o that_o good_a quality_n that_o good_a disposition_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v bind_v himself_o by_o promise_n to_o convey_v such_o or_o such_o mercy_n or_o benefit_n as_o for_o example_n shall_v i_o name_v most_o of_o the_o conditional_a promise_n in_o the_o word_n you_o will_v find_v none_o of_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o quality_n be_v make_v to_o they_o as_o quality_n but_o as_o to_o a_o state_n of_o want_n and_o penury_n and_o misery_n out_o of_o which_o the_o lord_n promise_v refreshment_n ease_n and_o relief_n out_o of_o the_o bowel_n of_o his_o own_o mercy_n 1._o to_o begin_v with_o thirst_a one_o that_o notable_a place_n in_o isa_n 55.1.2_o ho_o every_o one_o that_o thirst_v come_v you_o to_o the_o water_n and_o he_o that_o have_v no_o money_n come_v you_o buy_v and_o eat_v yea_o come_v buy_v wine_n and_o milk_n without_o money_n and_o without_o price_n come_v say_v he_o take_v all_o suitable_a refreshment_n for_o your_o poor_a thirsty_a soul_n there_o be_v christ_n hold_v forth_o to_o thirsty_a one_o in_o all_o the_o precious_a privilege_n tender_v to_o soul_n in_o christ_n yet_o this_o be_v not_o make_v to_o thirsty_a one_o as_o thirst_v be_v a_o quality_n or_o grace_n flow_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o that_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o thirst_a soul_n as_o thirst_v after_o jesus_n christ_n or_o as_o thirst_v be_v a_o quality_n will_v appear_v in_o three_o particular_n in_o that_o the_o person_n to_o who_o those_o glorious_a privilege_n be_v tender_v in_o christ_n be_v person_n void_a of_o any_o quality_n or_o grace_n proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o any_o holy_a quality_n as_o it_o do_v appear_v from_o the_o text_n that_o they_o have_v not_o any_o one_o right_a desire_n after_o receive_v any_o holiness_n for_o 1._o they_o be_v say_v to_o be_v such_o as_o be_v thirst_v after_o false_a refreshment_n dig_v break_v cistern_n for_o their_o soul_n to_o drink_v of_o they_o spend_v their_o money_n for_o that_o which_o be_v no_o bread_n that_o be_v their_o desire_n and_o endeavour_n they_o be_v the_o jew_n that_o seek_v for_o justification_n by_o the_o law_n and_o ceremony_n 2._o they_o be_v such_o as_o thirst_v to_o supply_v their_o want_n in_o a_o wrong_a way_n and_o be_v neglecter_n of_o jesus_n christ_n they_o spend_v their_o labour_n and_o desire_n after_o wrong_a object_n that_o which_o be_v not_o bread_n thing_n that_o can_v not_o profit_v and_o these_o be_v the_o person_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v and_o therefore_o it_o can_v not_o be_v make_v to_o any_o quality_n 3._o the_o same_o promise_n be_v hold_v forth_o to_o every_o soul_n equal_o whether_o thirst_v or_o not_o thirst_v this_o you_o may_v see_v rev._n 22.17_o let_v he_o that_o be_v a_o thirst_n come_v there_o be_v the_o same_o promise_n yea_o let_v whosoever_o will_v come_v and_o take_v of_o the_o water_n of_o life_n free_o every_o one_o under_o heaven_n be_v join_v under_o as_o equal_v a_o notion_n as_o the_o thirsty_a one_o therefore_o the_o promise_n can_v be_v make_v unto_o thirsty_a one_o as_o have_v such_o a_o quality_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o but_o as_o poor_a and_o penurious_a soul_n in_o a_o sad_a condition_n not_o know_v how_o to_o get_v their_o soul_n refresh_v and_o their_o want_n relieve_v so_o again_o mat._n 5_o 6._o where_o the_o promise_n seem_v to_o have_v more_o colour_n to_o be_v make_v to_o a_o quality_n as_o a_o quality_n bless_a be_v they_o that_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o righteousness_n for_o they_o shall_v be_v fill_v this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o soul_n as_o hunger_a and_o thirst_v after_o righteousness_n as_o holy_a disposition_n in_o their_o soul_n but_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o they_o only_o as_o be_v needy_a and_o penurious_a as_o be_v in_o want_n and_o extremity_n therefore_o you_o shall_v observe_v in_o the_o promise_n they_o shall_v be_v fill_v what_o be_v promise_v nothing_o to_o the_o quality_n itself_o but_o to_o the_o supply_n of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o poor_a soul_n 2._o if_o you_o observe_v the_o promise_n make_v to_o humble_a soul_n groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n they_o be_v not_o make_v to_o any_o soul_n as_o groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n or_o as_o groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n be_v a_o quality_n or_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o for_o example_n look_v that_o promise_n mat._n 11.28_o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o labour_n and_o be_v heavy_a lade_v and_o i_o will_v give_v you_o rest_n now_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o be_o burden_v and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v have_v rest_n and_o here_o i_o be_o persuade_v many_o a_o soul_n sit_v down_o in_o his_o be_v burden_v and_o not_o in_o his_o come_n to_o christ_n and_o so_o sit_v down_o short_a of_o christ_n now_o that_o this_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o soul_n burden_v as_o burden_v but_o as_o be_v in_o a_o sad_a condition_n ready_a to_o sink_v under_o grievous_a pressure_n appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v nothing_o promise_v by_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n remain_v in_o his_o present_a estate_n the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o rest_n and_o ease_n to_o the_o poor_a burden_a soul_n but_o how_o not_o as_o the_o soul_n remain_v in_o his_o present_a estate_n but_o through_o his_o come_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n come_v unto_o i_o and_o you_o shall_v have_v rest_n that_o be_v receive_v i_o as_o the_o only_a refuge_n of_o your_o soul_n and_o by_o receive_v i_o by_o faith_n your_o soul_n shall_v have_v rest_n 2._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v nothing_o promise_v in_o this_o promise_n to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o future_a more_o than_o to_o other_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o for_o the_o present_a burden_a under_o sin_n whatever_o be_v hold_v forth_o in_o this_o promise_n to_o soul_n groan_v under_o their_o burden_n be_v hold_v forth_o in_o other_o text_n to_o soul_n not_o groan_v under_o their_o burden_n in_o as_o equal_v a_o manner_n there_o can_v but_o two_o thing_n be_v hold_v forth_o first_o a_o invitation_n to_o believe_v but_o there_o be_v
of_o faith_n build_v upon_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n pre._n 2._o we_o must_v know_v that_o the_o scripture_n do_v make_v a_o distinction_n between_o assurance_n of_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n as_o in_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o say_v he_o we_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o father_n to_o we_o he_o make_v a_o twofold_a assurance_n a_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o a_o assurance_n of_o faith_n now_o indeed_o both_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n may_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n be_v call_v the_o assurance_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n they_o have_v both_o the_o property_n of_o knowledge_n knowledge_n be_v the_o gather_n of_o a_o necessary_a truth_n from_o some_o unchangeable_a ground_n now_o in_o both_o these_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n arise_v as_o a_o necessary_a truth_n from_o a_o unchangeable_a ground_n the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o unchangeable_a ground_n from_o which_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n gather_v the_o conclusion_n to_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o behold_v the_o peculiar_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v that_o unchangeable_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n gather_v the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n pre._n 3._o three_o that_o both_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n associate_n or_o companion_n in_o the_o same_o soul_n at_o one_o time_n they_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n cotemporary_a that_o be_v accompany_v one_o another_o that_o when_o one_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o other_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o when_o a_o soul_n have_v assurance_n of_o faith_n he_o have_v also_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o that_o for_o a_o threefold_a reason_n 1._o in_o regard_v those_o grace_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v witness_v or_o declare_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o soul_n whenever_o the_o lord_n reveal_v from_o his_o own_o word_n unto_o a_o soul_n his_o willingness_n to_o take_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o lord_n do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o willingness_n to_o confer_v and_o bestow_v upon_o he_o all_o the_o grace_n his_o soul_n want_v all_o the_o holiness_n the_o hungry_a or_o empty_a soul_n be_v breathe_v after_o he_o do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n assure_v the_o soul_n he_o shall_v have_v love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n he_o shall_v have_v poverty_n of_o spirit_n and_o strength_n over_o corruption_n 2._o through_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n those_o grace_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v beget_v immediate_o now_o in_o regard_n these_o be_v thus_o necessary_o beget_v thence_o it_o be_v the_o sight_n of_o they_o come_v to_o be_v apparent_a in_o the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n that_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o ground_n for_o assurance_n of_o faith_n be_v apparent_a in_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o lively_a working_n and_o motion_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n be_v excite_v and_o stir_v up_o in_o every_o soul_n by_o or_o through_o the_o lord_n reveal_v unto_o the_o soul_n a_o ground_n for_o assurance_n of_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v then_o the_o soul_n mourn_v for_o sin_n more_o sweet_o and_o melt_v more_o precious_o in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n than_o ever_o before_o though_o it_o may_v be_v there_o have_v be_v some_o heart-breaking_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o wretchedness_n former_o it_o be_v then_o the_o soul_n be_v true_o poor_a in_o himself_o and_o loathe_v and_o abhor_v himself_o more_o than_o ever_o before_o pre._n 4._o four_o though_o they_o be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o soul_n yet_o the_o assurance_n of_o of_o faith_n be_v the_o first_o according_a to_o order_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n draw_v from_o his_o own_o grace_n when_o there_o be_v not_o some_o unchangeable_a ground_n manifest_v from_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n so_o that_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o right_n orderly_a way_n never_o flow_v from_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n but_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n flow_v from_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o that_o arise_v upon_o these_o two_o ground_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o must_v be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n unto_o the_o soul_n by_o god_n that_o do_v procure_v a_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o appear_v thus_o the_o grace_n or_o love_n or_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n then_o the_o lord_n do_v draw_v the_o the_o soul_n to_o assurance_n of_o faith_n when_o he_o do_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o own_o particular_a grace_n and_o favour_n to_o take_v it_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n out_o of_o the_o mere_a disposition_n of_o his_o own_o will_v alone_o for_o no_o other_o respect_n whatever_o but_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n now_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n reveal_v or_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o now_o those_o be_v beget_v in_o the_o soul_n not_o by_o grace_n but_o by_o the_o manifestation_n of_o grace_n in_o particular_a unto_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v through_o grace_n reveal_v that_o grace_n have_v its_o right_a proper_a effect_n in_o a_o soul_n and_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n it_o have_v the_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o effect_n according_a to_o that_o in_o 1_o john_n 3.2_o we_o know_v that_o when_o he_o shall_v appear_v we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v that_o be_v when_o we_o behold_v he_o through_o that_o sight_n we_o shall_v be_v transform_v into_o the_o image_n of_o god_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o you_o may_v consult_v with_o divers_a place_n as_o john_n 15.16_o say_v christ_n you_o have_v not_o choose_v i_o but_o i_o have_v choose_v you_o he_o do_v not_o mean_a that_o they_o have_v not_o choose_v jesus_n christ_n now_o at_o present_a as_o their_o portion_n but_o they_o do_v not_o choose_v christ_n first_o but_o the_o manifestation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n choose_v their_o soul_n first_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n choose_v jesus_n christ_n and_o according_a to_o the_o light_a reveal_n to_o a_o soul_n jesus_n christ_n choice_n of_o he_o so_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o strength_n wherewith_o the_o will_n close_v with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o choice_n again_o now_o the_o choice_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o first_o act_n of_o any_o habit_n of_o grace_n that_o ever_o any_o soul_n bring_v forth_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a act_n true_o gracious_o act_v by_o any_o soul_n till_o the_o will_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v draw_v in_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n choose_v he_o to_o union_n with_o himself_o upon_o which_o the_o will_v also_o choose_v jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n with_o he_o and_o again_o you_o may_v consult_v with_o that_o know_a place_n in_o 1_o john_n 4.19_o say_v he_o we_o love_v he_o because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o not_o that_o from_o the_o essence_n of_o god_n love_v their_o love_n do_v proceed_v though_o that_o be_v true_a but_o from_o the_o manifestation_n of_o god_n love_n now_o as_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o gala._n 5_o 6._o faith_n work_v by_o love_n the_o very_a first_o operation_n of_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n towards_o christ_n be_v by_o love_n the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n it_o reach_v out_o a_o hand_n of_o faith_n to_o grasp_v hold_n of_o christ_n it_o reach_v out_o also_o a_o hand_n of_o love_n unto_o christ_n now_o then_o observe_v the_o grace_n and_o working_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o only_a ground_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o gather_v assurance_n of_o knowledge_n from_o and_o those_o grace_n not_o be_v beget_v in_o a_o soul_n but_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n manifestation_n unto_o soul_n a_o ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o assurance_n of_o faith_n must_v needs_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n go_v before_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n 2._o the_o effect_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v always_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n remain_v dark_a and_o hide_a and_o obscure_a to_o the_o
three_o in_o what_o manner_n those_o mean_n produce_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n quest_n 1._o the_o first_o question_n be_v from_o whence_o soul_n attain_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n answ_n i_o answer_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a peculiar_a ground_n substantial_o from_o whence_o soul_n can_v expect_v to_o receive_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n and_o that_o be_v the_o lord_n own_o free_a promise_n pass_v out_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n alone_o to_o poor_a despisable_a soul_n wherein_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o willingness_n to_o confer_v or_o bestow_v the_o lord_n christ_n upon_o their_o soul_n now_o that_o this_o free_a promise_n alone_o be_v the_o infallible_a ground_n from_o whence_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n will_v appear_v in_o these_o three_o particular_n i._o in_o regard_v a_o divine_a word_n must_v be_v the_o proper_a adequate_a object_n of_o a_o divine_a faith_n and_o every_o particular_a act_n of_o divine_a faith_n must_v have_v a_o divine_a word_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o in_o rom._n 10.17_o the_o whole_a gospel_n consider_v as_o the_o gospel_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o word_n from_o which_o faith_n come_v that_o be_v the_o word_n which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o faith_n not_o that_o it_o be_v the_o bare_a hear_n of_o it_o that_o produce_v faith_n but_o through_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o word_n the_o lord_n reveal_v that_o word_n unto_o soul_n to_o be_v a_o true_a infallible_a foundation_n for_o soul_n to_o build_v upon_o and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n past_a out_o from_o god_n as_o a_o promise_n unto_o soul_n be_v make_v a_o ground_n of_o true_a hope_n unto_o soul_n say_v david_n psal_n 119.49_o remember_v thy_o word_n that_o be_v thy_o promise_n unto_o thy_o servant_n upon_o which_o thou_o have_v cause_v i_o to_o hope_v now_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n thus_o consider_v be_v the_o only_a proper_a object_n of_o divine_a faith_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o it_o can_v only_o be_v from_o a_o divine_a promise_n that_o a_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n ii_o in_o regard_n there_o must_v be_v a_o revelation_n from_o god_n of_o his_o free_a donation_n and_o give_v christ_n unto_o a_o soul_n that_o must_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o act_n of_o every_o assure_v faith_n it_o must_v be_v through_o some_o light_n and_o apprehension_n the_o soul_n have_v of_o the_o lord_n free_a will_n concern_v his_o soul_n that_o christ_n and_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v one_o that_o any_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n can_v go_v out_o of_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o may_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_n faith_n respect_n thing_n only_o as_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o speech_n from_o some_o person_n or_o other_o and_o respect_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o person_n speak_v as_o the_o ground_n and_o foundation_n upon_o which_o it_o act_n that_o be_v upon_o which_o faith_n do_v believe_v thus_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o lord_n speak_v be_v the_o ground_n of_o sarahs_n faith_n heb._n 11.11_o so_o the_o ground_n of_o paul_n faith_n be_v express_v thus_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o that_o he_o be_v able_a now_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o mind_n concern_v the_o eternal_a condition_n of_o such_o soul_n only_o in_o his_o promise_n thence_o it_o follow_v necessary_o there_o must_v be_v some_o revelation_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n of_o promise_n or_o the_o lord_n donation_n or_o give_v christ_n to_o the_o soul_n before_o there_o can_v follow_v any_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n 2._o it_o appear_v in_o regard_n faith_n proper_a exercise_n consist_v only_o in_o receive_v whence_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o scripture_n that_o believe_v and_o receive_v be_v both_o put_v for_o one_o ordinary_o john_n 1.12_o and_o chap._n 3.33_o so_o that_o of_o necessity_n for_o every_o right_a exercise_n of_o any_o act_n of_o faith_n there_o must_v be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o something_o give_v that_o may_v be_v receive_v by_o a_o soul_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v of_o indispensable_a necessity_n that_o there_o be_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n give_v christ_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o it_o before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o act_n of_o assure_v faith_n in_o the_o soul_n iii_o it_o must_v be_v from_o the_o promise_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n there_o must_v be_v a_o particular_a infallible_a certainty_n to_o faith_n eye_n in_o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o faith_n of_o assurance_n or_o faith_n of_o evidence_n do_v act_n faith_n work_v only_o as_o a_o receiver_n can_v receive_v no_o full_a certainty_n or_o have_v any_o full_a confidence_n in_o itself_o of_o any_o thing_n to_o be_v effect_v or_o do_v than_o it_o see_v manifest_a from_o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o it_o take_v that_o confidence_n or_o assurance_n now_o the_o promise_n alone_o be_v the_o infallible_a certainty_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n yea_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o own_o unchangeable_a counsel_n have_v determine_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o other_o certainty_n but_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o faith_n rom._n 4.16_o therefore_o it_o be_v of_o faith_n that_o it_o may_v be_v by_o grace_n to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o promise_n may_v be_v sure_a to_o all_o the_o seed_n and_o that_o be_v the_o answer_n to_o the_o first_o question_n from_o whence_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o you_o see_v be_v only_o from_o the_o divine_a promise_n but_o yet_o here_o be_v another_o question_n soul_n will_v cast_v in_o before_o we_o answer_v the_o second_o by_o what_o mean_n quest_n but_o may_v the_o soul_n say_v be_v it_o not_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o condition_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o promise_n of_o christ_n that_o a_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n it_o be_v true_a it_o must_v be_v from_o a_o promise_n but_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o the_o near_a ground_n the_o proximate_a ground_n but_o the_o remote_a ground_n the_o further_a off_o ground_n and_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o promise_n fulfil_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v the_o near_a ground_n and_o the_o immediate_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o its_o union_n for_o answer_v to_o it_o there_o be_v divers_a thing_n to_o be_v premise_v and_o then_o to_o come_v to_o the_o direct_a answer_n of_o the_o question_n prem_n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o it_o be_v a_o general_a receive_v division_n of_o the_o promise_n that_o they_o be_v either_o absolute_a or_o conditional_a absolute_a make_v and_o found_v upon_o the_o will_n of_o god_n alone_o and_o so_o to_o be_v accomplish_v only_o according_a to_o his_o own_o will_n and_o because_o he_o will_n or_o else_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o some_o particular_a condition_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o soul_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v also_o fulfil_v the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n now_o this_o division_n divide_v the_o promise_n into_o a_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o covenant_n of_o work_n so_o it_o be_v all_o one_o with_o that_o know_a division_n promise_v legal_a and_o promise_n evangelical_a promise_v according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o promise_n according_a to_o the_o gospel_n prem_n 2._o second_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n proper_o call_v conditional_a promise_n there_o be_v not_o one_o condition_n include_v in_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o which_o any_o one_o promise_n be_v make_v so_o that_o the_o division_n of_o the_o promise_n into_o promise_n absolute_a and_o promise_n conditional_a can_v hold_v right_o in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o every_o promise_n consider_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v all_o absolute_a promise_n that_o be_v the_o revelation_n of_o god_n will_v to_o soul_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v simple_o and_o full_o determine_v to_o accomplish_v according_a to_o the_o manner_n and_o order_n and_o latitude_n wherein_o he_o do_v propound_v they_o unto_o soul_n and_o that_o without_o any_o impediment_n or_o interruption_n so_o that_o whatever_o can_v possible_o intervene_v yet_o the_o lord_n will_v shall_v prevail_v in_o perform_v the_o promise_n thence_o you_o shall_v observe_v jer._n 31.32_o that_o the_o new_a covenant_n call_v the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o love_n be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o old_a covenant_n god_n make_v with_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o nation_n in_o that_o it_o be_v a_o covenant_n whole_o absolute_a contain_v nothing_o but_o promise_n which_o the_o lord_n intend_v to_o
or_o precious_a habit_n of_o love_n to_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v a_o effect_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n itself_o now_o that_o the_o covenant_n shall_v be_v make_v to_o that_o which_o be_v the_o proper_a effect_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n itself_o no_o man_n can_v conceive_v and_o that_o demonstration_n be_v sufficient_a to_o clear_v all_o other_o promise_n of_o this_o nature_n so_o if_o you_o examine_v the_o promise_n make_v to_o fear_v psal_n 34.7_o 8._o the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n pitch_v their_o tent_n about_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o it_o be_v take_v for_o a_o promise_n but_o it_o be_v only_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o saint_n so_o likewise_o look_v to_o all_o the_o promise_n of_o obedience_n deut._n 5.10_o the_o lord_n reserve_v mercy_n for_o a_o thousand_o generation_n of_o they_o that_o love_v he_o and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n there_o be_v a_o large_a promise_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o obedience_n but_o no_o soul_n understand_v the_o absolute_a decree_n of_o god_n from_o eternity_n can_v conceive_v the_o obedience_n of_o any_o soul_n shall_v be_v the_o motive_n that_o shall_v move_v god_n to_o show_v mercy_n to_o the_o soul_n or_o body_n or_o that_o god_n shall_v bind_v himself_o to_o his_o own_o people_n yield_v obedience_n to_o he_o to_o become_v a_o debtor_n to_o their_o posterity_n in_o respect_n of_o their_o obedience_n for_o then_o the_o mercy_n their_o posterity_n shall_v enjoy_v shall_v owe_v their_o immediate_a be_v and_o the_o glory_n of_o their_o be_v to_o their_o immediate_a ancestor_n and_o not_o to_o god_n as_o the_o immediate_a cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o their_o mercy_n therefore_o these_o be_v only_a declaration_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o all_o these_o promise_n be_v only_a manifestation_n of_o his_o goodness_n to_o they_o for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n for_o refresh_v their_o spirit_n and_o for_o the_o cause_v they_o to_o be_v precious_a in_o the_o esteem_n of_o other_o 3._o if_o those_o promise_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n as_o unto_o condition_n be_v not_o thus_o than_o they_o be_v only_a description_n of_o the_o person_n of_o those_o that_o god_n do_v interest_n in_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n of_o christ_n by_o the_o special_a peculiar_a grace_n that_o god_n communicate_v to_o they_o or_o else_o 4._o they_o be_v discovery_n of_o the_o mean_n through_o which_o god_n do_v convey_v those_o privilege_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n unto_o person_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v that_o promise_n which_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o a_o condition_n isa_n 57.17_o thus_o say_v the_o high_a and_o lofty_a one_o that_o inhabit_v eternity_n who_o name_n be_v holy_a i_o dwell_v in_o the_o high_a and_o holy_a place_n with_o he_o also_o that_o be_v of_o a_o contrite_a and_o humble_a spirit_n this_o that_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o promise_n make_v to_o a_o soul_n endue_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n with_o the_o grace_n of_o humility_n it_o be_v but_o either_o a_o description_n of_o those_o person_n who_o the_o lord_n do_v interest_n in_o his_o own_o special_a favour_n out_o of_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n alone_o or_o else_o it_o be_v a_o precious_a cordial_n give_v to_o a_o poor_a droop_a spirit_n as_o consider_v in_o a_o estate_n of_o penury_n and_o poverty_n as_o one_o contrite_a and_o ready_a to_o give_v up_o himself_o of_o this_o nature_n be_v all_o those_o promise_n make_v to_o believe_v and_o repent_v he_o that_o believe_v and_o repent_v shall_v be_v save_v the_o promise_n of_o salvation_n be_v not_o make_v unto_o faith_n as_o a_o special_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n nor_o to_o the_o person_n endue_v with_o that_o grace_n but_o the_o thing_n itself_o proper_o be_v no_o promise_n but_o rather_o a_o description_n of_o the_o mean_n through_o which_o the_o lord_n make_v his_o people_n partaker_n of_o the_o special_a privilege_n he_o convey_v through_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o person_n he_o communicate_v they_o to_o by_o their_o quality_n 5._o those_o word_n of_o god_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v promise_n make_v unto_o condition_n if_o none_o of_o the_o four_o former_a thing_n contain_v they_o then_o they_o be_v description_n give_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n of_o the_o way_n the_o lord_n require_v and_o inable_v his_o people_n to_o walk_v in_o while_o he_o communicate_v of_o his_o own_o free_a mercy_n to_o they_o of_o this_o nature_n be_v that_o place_n so_o mistake_v ezek_n 36.27_o 28_o 29_o 30_o which_o be_v the_o great_a place_n conceive_v to_o be_v of_o weight_n to_o prove_v promise_n to_o be_v make_v to_o condition_n say_v the_o lord_n i_o will_v do_v these_o and_o these_o thing_n for_o you_o i_o will_v bring_v you_o into_o your_o land_n and_o make_v you_o dwell_v quiet_o and_o safe_o in_o your_o land_n and_o i_o will_v save_v you_o from_o your_o uncleanness_n etc._n etc._n but_o v._o 37._o thus_o say_v the_o lord_n god_n i_o will_v yet_o for_o this_o be_v inquire_v of_o by_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n to_o do_v it_o for_o they_o general_o the_o soul_n conceive_v here_o be_v the_o promise_n and_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o promise_n the_o promise_n to_o be_v the_o multitude_n of_o mercy_n and_o the_o condition_n to_o be_v the_o seek_n of_o the_o face_n of_o god_n but_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o to_o describe_v the_o way_n the_o lord_n require_v his_o people_n to_o walk_v in_o whilst_o they_o be_v in_o expectation_n to_o receive_v those_o precious_a mercy_n free_o promise_v by_o god_n for_o they_o likewise_o that_o in_o 1_o king_n 8_o 47_o 48._o solomon_n pray_v for_o his_o people_n if_o they_o bethink_v themselves_o in_o the_o land_n whither_o they_o be_v carry_v captive_n and_o repent_v and_o make_v supplication_n etc._n etc._n now_o say_v the_o soul_n here_o be_v both_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o promise_n the_o condition_n be_v seek_v god_n face_n humble_v themselves_o for_o their_o sin_n turn_v to_o god_n with_o all_o their_o heart_n and_o then_o there_o be_v the_o promise_n that_o god_n will_v deliver_v they_o but_o they_o must_v observe_v these_o condition_n else_o god_n bind_v not_o himself_o to_o give_v deliverance_n now_o the_o true_a meaning_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v only_o this_o solomon_n in_o pray_v here_o at_o the_o dedication_n of_o his_o temple_n the_o typical_a house_n of_o god_n beseech_v the_o lord_n that_o the_o prayer_n of_o all_o his_o people_n make_v towards_o that_o temple_n that_o be_v towards_o jesus_n christ_n typify_v by_o that_o temple_n and_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o they_o may_v be_v all_o acceptable_a to_o god_n therefore_o observe_v solomon_n in_o pray_v do_v only_o describe_v the_o frame_n of_o spirit_n in_o god_n people_n when_o they_o come_v to_o pray_v which_o be_v a_o humble_a frame_n a_o turn_a frame_n from_o their_o sin_n neither_o do_v god_n make_v the_o promise_n in_o either_o of_o both_o those_o place_n to_o depend_v upon_o any_o of_o these_o duty_n name_v not_o so_o much_o as_o prayer_n itself_o therefore_o for_o the_o clear_n these_o text_n i_o pray_v consider_v these_o thing_n which_o may_v be_v useful_a for_o we_o for_o the_o right_a understanding_n the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o i._o that_o the_o duty_n here_o require_v by_o god_n from_o his_o people_n be_v the_o way_n wherein_o it_o be_v his_o will_n his_o people_n shall_v walk_v in_o receive_v mercy_n they_o be_v not_o precedent_n in_o order_n of_o time_n before_o the_o lord_n intitul_a the_o soul_n to_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o every_o promise_v contain_v in_o it_o no_o nor_o so_o much_o as_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n that_o be_v that_o it_o must_v be_v presuppose_v that_o the_o soul_n have_v perform_v such_o and_o such_o duty_n before_o it_o can_v be_v presuppose_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v interest_v the_o soul_n in_o every_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o these_o two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o act_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v alone_o before_o and_o without_o any_o act_n of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n concur_v do_v full_o entitle_v the_o soul_n to_o every_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n otherwise_o it_o shall_v be_v conceive_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o good_a will_n in_o man_n towards_o god_n before_o there_o be_v any_o good_a will_n in_o god_n towards_o man_n and_o so_o some_o act_n of_o good_a will_n from_o man_n to_o god_n shall_v not_o flow_v from_o the_o act_n of_o god_n good_a will_n to_o the_o soul_n second_o in_o regard_n the_o
thing_n be_v thus_o clear_v the_o question_n that_o the_o soul_n propound_v can_v stand_v the_o question_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v not_o from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o condition_n to_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v and_o fulfil_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o soul_n do_v conclude_v his_o right_n to_o the_o promise_n and_o so_o have_v his_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o condition_n in_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n to_o which_o god_n have_v make_v any_o promise_n it_o can_v be_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v from_o the_o sight_n of_o any_o such_o condition_n that_o a_o soul_n shall_v have_v his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o then_o the_o question_n will_v be_v resolve_v into_o this_o question_n quest_n but_o say_v the_o soul_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n first_o reveal_v those_o grace_n that_o he_o describe_v his_o own_o people_n by_o to_o be_v in_o soul_n and_o then_o through_o the_o sight_n of_o they_o clear_a to_o soul_n that_o he_o have_v give_v they_o the_o lord_n christ_n out_o of_o his_o own_o good_a will_v alone_o through_o the_o promise_n and_o so_o it_o must_v be_v through_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o grace_n as_o god_n describe_v to_o be_v in_o his_o people_n that_o a_o soul_n must_v see_v himself_o to_o be_v one_o of_o god_n people_n answ_n 1._o now_o to_o this_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o lord_n do_v reserve_v to_o himself_o his_o own_o liberty_n concern_v his_o own_o particular_a word_n from_o whence_o he_o do_v reveal_v to_o soul_n infallible_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o lord_n do_v not_o bind_v himself_o from_o a_o reveal_n unto_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o some_o word_n describe_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o people_n unite_v unto_o christ_n nor_o from_o some_o word_n only_o invite_v soul_n unto_o christ_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o evidence_n unto_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n without_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n in_o some_o measure_n or_o degree_n that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n describe_v the_o lord_n own_o people_n by_o when_o the_o lord_n reveal_v his_o own_o free_a gift_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o soul_n he_o do_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o willing_a accept_n of_o christ_n so_o give_v and_o that_o be_v all_o one_o as_o if_o i_o shall_v say_v the_o soul_n see_v his_o own_o faith_n and_o so_o consequent_o do_v see_v such_o grace_n to_o be_v in_o his_o soul_n answ_n 3._o three_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v never_o reveal_v any_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o any_o soul_n as_o the_o ground_n or_o cause_n of_o evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v two_o thing_n intend_v in_o this_o first_o that_o the_o lord_n never_o reveal_v those_o grace_n in_o soul_n to_o be_v that_o which_o give_v the_o soul_n right_a to_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n the_o lord_n never_o manifest_v unto_o any_o soul_n that_o because_o there_o be_v such_o and_o such_o holy_a disposition_n or_o precious_a heavenly_a quality_n that_o he_o have_v communicate_v to_o he_o that_o therefore_o he_o be_v incline_v towards_o he_o and_o be_v willing_a to_o confer_v the_o lord_n jesus_n upon_o he_o or_o to_o accept_v he_o into_o union_n through_o christ_n but_o the_o lord_n reveal_v himself_o willing_a to_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o christ_n as_o they_o be_v consider_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o poor_a despicable_a worthless_a soul_n without_o the_o least_o good_a disposition_n or_o holy_a inclination_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v in_o their_o heart_n second_o the_o lord_n never_o reveal_v those_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n that_o be_v the_o lord_n do_v not_o manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o because_o there_o be_v such_o grace_n or_o such_o precious_a habit_n in_o his_o soul_n therefore_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o believe_v the_o lord_n free_a sender_n and_o free_a gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o it_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o make_v those_o grace_n to_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n hope_v and_o comfort_n shall_v rest_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o god_n shall_v discover_v to_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v cause_v the_o soul_n by_o discover_v grace_n to_o be_v in_o he_o to_o bottom_v its_o hope_n upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n than_o shall_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o object_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o faith_n shall_v not_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v but_o rather_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n see_v now_o the_o scripture_n never_o propound_v any_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o faith_n consider_v the_o quality_n as_o be_v inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v out_o of_o all_o question_n the_o scripture_n propound_v believe_v without_o the_o sight_n of_o any_o of_o those_o quality_n as_o that_o which_o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o seek_v after_o with_o his_o great_a strength_n john_n 20.29_o second_o shall_v the_o lord_n manifest_a grace_n to_o be_v in_o soul_n first_o so_o as_o to_o bottom_v the_o hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n upon_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n than_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o settle_v the_o faith_n of_o such_o soul_n upon_o a_o immutable_a unchangeable_a ground_n the_o spirit_n itself_o in_o all_o its_o working_n both_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o person_n in_o who_o it_o work_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o manner_n and_o time_n of_o such_o working_n be_v well_o compare_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o wind_n that_o blow_v where_o and_o when_o it_o list_v and_o so_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o working_n of_o those_o grace_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v changeable_a thing_n and_o shall_v the_o lord_n ground_n the_o faith_n of_o a_o soul_n upon_o a_o changeable_a ground_n he_o shall_v walk_v contrary_a to_o he_o reveal_v will_n heb._n 6.18_o he_o have_v give_v two_o immutable_a ground_n his_o word_n and_o oath_n the_o lord_n will_v be_v there_o shall_v be_v everlasting_a constant_a unchangeable_a ground_n upon_o which_o every_o act_n of_o faith_n shall_v be_v build_v in_o relation_n to_o the_o lord_n christ_n that_o there_o may_v be_v unmoveable_a and_o unchangeable_a consolation_n answ_n 4._o four_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o lord_n may_v and_o do_v to_o some_o soul_n reveal_v grace_n to_o be_v in_o they_o before_o he_o do_v evidence_n unto_o their_o faith_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o lord_n may_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v some_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n some_o break_a heartedness_n for_o sin_n some_o precious_a change_n before_o he_o do_v assure_v unto_o their_o faith_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o then_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v note_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o conclusion_n first_o that_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o reveal_v the_o truth_n of_o such_o grace_n to_o be_v in_o such_o a_o soul_n unquestionable_o so_o as_o to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o conclude_v from_o thence_o the_o acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o dreadful_a storm_n of_o fear_n and_o terror_n that_o may_v be_v rise_v upon_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v much_o allay_v but_o alas_o there_o will_v be_v many_o a_o wave_n go_v over_o the_o soul_n still_o second_o that_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n hold_v equal_a proportion_n with_o that_o evidence_n the_o lord_n give_v to_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n or_o of_o the_o lord_n free_a gift_n of_o christ_n to_o he_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n and_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n run_v parallel_v together_o they_o be_v dark_a and_o clear_a together_o hold_v one_o equal_a proportion_n and_o therefore_o until_o god_n assure_v the_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v willing_a to_o accept_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n have_v not_o a_o unquestionable_a assurance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o his_o soul_n answ_n 5._o it_o be_v not_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n in_o a_o poor_a doubt_a soul_n but_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a uncontrollable_a will_n to_o receive_v a_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n faith_n be_v assure_v of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n be_v assure_v of_o his_o union_n with_o he_o now_o this_o
i_o shall_v desire_v to_o clear_v from_o divers_a particular_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o immediate_a ground_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o promise_n or_o of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n unto_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n therefore_o say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 4.16_o it_o be_v of_o faith_n that_o it_o may_v be_v by_o grace_n to_o the_o end_n that_o the_o promise_n may_v be_v sure_a to_o all_o the_o seed_n and_o that_o the_o immediate_a ground_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o promise_n must_v be_v gift_n alone_o appear_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o regard_n the_o foundation_n of_o all_o must_v be_v grace_n eph._n 1.6_o 7._o that_o we_o may_v be_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o grace_n therefore_o in_o ezek._n 16.62_o 63._o i_o will_v establish_v my_o covenant_n with_o thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n there_o be_v the_o absolute_a promise_n what_o be_v the_o end_n that_o thou_o may_v remember_v and_o be_v confound_v and_o never_o open_v thy_o mouth_n any_o more_o because_o of_o thy_o shame_n when_o i_o be_o pacify_v towards_o thou_o for_o all_o that_o thou_o have_v do_v say_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v strange_a one_o will_v think_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v ashamed_a and_o consounded_a when_o god_n be_v pacify_v and_o reveal_v himself_o to_o be_v pacify_v but_o here_o be_v the_o mystery_n of_o it_o the_o lord_n lay_v grace_n as_o the_o foundation_n of_o all_o his_o way_n towards_o they_o purposely_o that_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o that_o god_n communicate_v to_o soul_n may_v be_v to_o himself_o alone_o second_o in_o regard_n there_o can_v be_v nothing_o else_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n there_o be_v but_o two_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v ground_n of_o certainty_n it_o must_v be_v either_o grace_n in_o god_n or_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n either_o the_o love_n of_o god_n or_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n be_v thing_n see_v ad_fw-la therefore_o not_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n heb._n 11.1_o 2._o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o absolute_a will_n of_o god_n must_v be_v the_o only_a ground_n of_o assurance_n in_o regard_n faith_n can_v discern_v no_o certainty_n of_o god_n difference_v one_o soul_n from_o another_o but_o what_o the_o word_n of_o god_n reveal_v now_o the_o word_n of_o god_n reveal_v no_o other_o ground_n of_o the_o lord_n difference_v one_o soul_n from_o another_o but_o only_o his_o own_o will_n rom._n 9.12.18_o 3._o in_o regard_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n right_a of_o receive_v christ_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o do_v whole_o depend_v upon_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v secret_o allure_v the_o heart_n from_o those_o dark_a vision_n of_o christ_n to_o embrace_v he_o true_o so_o as_o there_o be_v a_o real_a union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n yet_o the_o soul_n can_v judge_v aright_o of_o his_o receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n so_o tender_v to_o be_v give_v to_o his_o soul_n till_o he_o see_v that_o he_o do_v receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n upon_o the_o right_a ground_n 4._o in_o that_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n duty_n to_o receive_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n in_o that_o order_n wherein_o the_o lord_n manifest_v his_o give_v of_o his_o gift_n now_o the_o order_n wherein_o the_o lord_n propound_v his_o gift_n be_v first_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o then_o the_o gift_n of_o all_o grace_n as_o the_o adjunct_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o thence_o the_o lord_n invite_v the_o soul_n and_o command_v the_o soul_n first_o in_o order_n to_o receive_v christ_n that_o so_o it_o may_v partake_v of_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n and_o all_o those_o disposition_n of_o holiness_n the_o soul_n belong_v for_o 5._o in_o that_o the_o lord_n judge_v it_o sufficient_a for_o assure_v the_o waver_a tremble_v soul_n of_o a_o poor_a sinner_n fear_v the_o indignation_n of_o god_n against_o he_o for_o his_o sin_n you_o shall_v read_v gen._n 3.15_o that_o all_o the_o promise_n that_o god_n give_v to_o adam_n when_o out_o of_o question_n the_o poor_a man_n be_v in_o great_a distress_n be_v only_o this_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n a_o mere_a discovery_n of_o his_o absolute_a free_a will_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o thing_n in_o soul_n themselves_o that_o he_o will_v deliver_v sole_o by_o a_o way_n devise_v by_o his_o own_o wisdom_n by_o a_o mediator_n by_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o humane_a nature_n and_o conquer_a the_o power_n of_o hell_n that_o do_v then_o hold_v poor_a soul_n captive_a can_v adam_n have_v receive_v no_o evidence_n nor_o no_o assurance_n of_o the_o lord_n accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o again_o in_o christ_n from_o that_o promise_n the_o soul_n of_o adam_n have_v be_v leave_v altogether_o comfortless_a there_o be_v no_o description_n give_v by_o god_n of_o any_o grace_n that_o his_o own_o spirit_n do_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o such_o that_o he_o have_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o himself_o 6._o in_o regard_v the_o pattern_n hold_v forth_o in_o scripture_n of_o such_o as_o have_v receive_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n from_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n from_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o will_n alone_o to_o do_v good_a unto_o their_o soul_n in_o gen._n 15.6_o 7_o 8_o compare_v with_o rom._n 4.18_o 19_o you_o shall_v see_v abraham_n the_o father_n of_o all_o believer_n he_o receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n blessing_n he_o in_o christ_n which_o be_v all_o one_o with_o take_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n only_o by_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a will_n towards_o he_o another_o pattern_n you_o see_v isa_n 6.5_o 6_o 7_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o wretchedness_n cry_v out_o woe_n be_v i_o i_o be_o undo_v etc._n etc._n a_o seraphim_n fly_v unto_o he_o have_v a_o live_a coal_n in_o his_o hand_n which_o he_o take_v off_o the_o altar_n and_o lay_v it_o upon_o his_o mouth_n you_o must_v conceive_v it_o be_v do_v in_o a_o vision_n and_o say_v lo_o this_o have_v touch_v thy_o lip_n and_o thy_o iniquity_n be_v take_v away_o and_o thy_o sin_n purge_v here_o be_v a_o absolute_a promise_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a love_n to_o isaiah_n it_o give_v he_o no_o character_n at_o all_o but_o tell_v he_o his_o iniquity_n be_v take_v away_o and_o this_o satisfy_v the_o soul_n of_o isaiah_n as_o you_o may_v see_v v._o 8._o by_o his_o readiness_n to_o obey_v the_o command_n of_o god_n here_o i_o be_o send_v i_o and_o the_o case_n be_v every_o way_n parallel_n only_o this_o particularize_v the_o person_n of_o isaiah_n whereas_o other_o promise_n be_v hold_v forth_o general_o but_o yet_o every_o particular_a soul_n be_v as_o full_o include_v and_o the_o promise_n be_v as_o absolute_o speak_v to_o every_o soul_n receive_v it_o as_o it_o be_v unto_o isaiah_n and_o it_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o shine_v forth_o in_o the_o promise_n that_o do_v put_v as_o much_o particularity_n and_o do_v as_o much_o particularize_v the_o promise_n to_o any_o one_o soul_n as_o this_o promise_n be_v particularise_v to_o isaiah_n in_o a_o vision_n so_o that_o it_o be_v from_o the_o lord_n absolute_a will_n alone_o that_o the_o soul_n receive_v a_o full_a ground_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o first_o branch_n of_o the_o 5_o conclusion_n the_o second_o branch_n of_o the_o five_o conclusion_n be_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o scrupulous_a soul_n doubtful_a of_o his_o union_n that_o do_v thus_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n now_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n still_o dark_a in_o his_o union_n can_v be_v in_o order_n the_o first_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n do_v receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n though_o at_o the_o very_a same_o instant_n the_o soul_n may_v by_o the_o discover_n of_o those_o grace_n see_v his_o union_n and_o conclude_v his_o union_n from_o the_o sight_n of_o those_o grace_n yet_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n this_o be_v not_o the_o immediate_a ground_n that_o give_v the_o certainty_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v i._o in_o regard_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n can_v be_v first_o receive_v of_o a_o soul_n by_o faith_n as_o a_o soul_n be_v gracious_a or_o by_o the_o soul_n be_v consider_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o soul_n that_o
have_v any_o grace_n or_o holy_a habit_n or_o quality_n inherent_a in_o he_o but_o the_o first_o sight_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n former_o dark_a about_o his_o union_n must_v have_v respect_n and_o relation_n to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o gift_n be_v manifest_v else_o the_o gift_n can_v be_v close_v with_o as_o suitable_a thence_o it_o must_v be_v manifest_v as_o a_o gift_n of_o a_o mediator_n to_o a_o poor_a despicable_a and_o desperate_a rebellious_a wretch_n against_o the_o high_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o mediate_v with_o the_o great_a commander_n of_o heaven_n for_o pardon_v to_o such_o a_o poor_a despicable_a rebel_n it_o must_v be_v receive_v as_o a_o gift_n of_o a_o day_n man_n that_o may_v lay_v his_o hand_n upon_o both_o partay_v upon_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n as_o at_o difference_n to_o make_v up_o a_o union_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n in_o open_v the_o work_n of_o receive_v the_o lord_n christ_n by_o faith_n consider_v the_o soul_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o ungodly_a one_o in_o the_o receive_n of_o it_o rom._n 4_o 5._o ii_o it_o can_v be_v that_o the_o discovery_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v first_o in_o order_n to_o such_o a_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o first_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v hitherto_o set_v in_o darkness_n must_v be_v a_o manifestation_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o those_o very_a grace_n and_o the_o grace_n themselves_o consider_v as_o give_v be_v no_o proper_a object_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o can_v give_v no_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n but_o it_o be_v only_o the_o promise_n wherein_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o his_o free_a will_n both_o to_o christ_n and_o those_o grace_n that_o must_v be_v the_o only_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v receive_v the_o evidence_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o first_o question_n open_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o what_o mean_v the_o lord_n use_v to_o make_v the_o promise_n efficacious_a for_o this_o end_n to_o give_v the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o before_o we_o come_v to_o answer_v this_o question_n there_o be_v another_o question_n to_o be_v open_v that_o arise_v from_o the_o former_a quest_n but_o say_v the_o soul_n can_v the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v have_v the_o first_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n see_v there_o be_v no_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n wherein_o he_o discover_v his_o own_o will_n to_o accept_v any_o one_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n all_o the_o absolute_a promise_n say_v the_o soul_n be_v make_v to_o the_o church_n and_o people_n of_o god_n but_o the_o lord_n in_o those_o absolute_a promise_n do_v not_o reveal_v the_o particular_a soul_n that_o be_v his_o own_o therefore_o how_o can_v i_o or_o any_o other_o know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o particular_a soul_n in_o the_o promise_n there_o be_v no_o particularise_v of_o any_o soul_n answ_n for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n i_o shall_v first_o open_v what_o be_v general_o grant_v by_o every_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o premise_v for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o thing_n and_o then_o lie_v down_o two_o conclusion_n for_o the_o full_a answer_n of_o the_o question_n pre._n 1._o first_o it_o be_v general_o grant_v by_o all_o that_o it_o be_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n of_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o soul_n be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n the_o absolute_a promise_n alone_o be_v like_o jacob_n ladder_n it_o be_v the_o heavenly_a ladder_n upon_o which_o the_o lord_n christ_n alone_o come_v down_o into_o any_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o absolute_a promise_n that_o be_v the_o precious_a golden_a chain_n that_o bind_v the_o lord_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o soul_n to_o christ_n that_o the_o precious_a marriage_n knot_n of_o union_n be_v only_o knit_v by_o that_o chain_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o if_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n than_o the_o absolute_a good_a will_n unto_o soul_n be_v not_o the_o primary_n or_o first_o ground_n of_o union_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o soul_n for_o the_o promise_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o revelation_n or_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n good_a will_n concern_v soul_n now_o thence_o it_o be_v if_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n that_o soul_n be_v unite_v than_o it_o be_v not_o primary_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v from_o eternity_n and_o so_o union_n with_o christ_n shall_v not_o be_v a_o mercy_n flow_v down_o from_o the_o fountain_n of_o the_o lord_n elective_a love_n but_o rather_o the_o first_o and_o primary_n cause_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n shall_v be_v from_o something_o in_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o so_o quite_o contrary_a to_o the_o stream_n of_o scripture_n truth_n it_o shall_v be_v of_o he_o that_o will_v and_o run_v and_o not_o of_o he_o that_o show_v mercy_n 2._o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o then_o there_o must_v be_v some_o grace_n acceptable_a to_o god_n presuppose_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n before_o union_n with_o christ_n unto_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o promise_n of_o union_n with_o he_o it_o must_v be_v either_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o conditional_a promise_n or_o a_o absolute_a promise_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v now_o if_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o condition_n or_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o such_o a_o holy_a quality_n must_v be_v conceive_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n as_o be_v acceptable_a unto_o god_n now_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a there_o can_v be_v any_o holy_a quality_n conceive_v to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n acceptable_a to_o god_n before_o union_n then_o either_o the_o soul_n must_v receive_v some_o holy_a quality_n that_o flow_v not_o from_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o deny_v the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v contrary_a to_o that_o in_o col._n 1.9_o and_o john_n 1.16_o or_o else_o we_o shall_v conclude_v that_o some_o grace_n some_o holy_a quality_n shall_v be_v convey_v into_o the_o soul_n that_o shall_v not_o be_v convey_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n and_o so_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o communication_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n still_o remain_v a_o stranger_n to_o god_n 3._o if_o there_o be_v the_o least_o quality_n acceptable_a unto_o god_n before_o union_n than_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v a_o belove_a one_o of_o god_n out_o of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v by_o his_o dear_o belove_a son_n alone_o in_o who_o the_o lord_n be_v well_o please_v pre._n 2._o that_o the_o first_o proper_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o union_n be_v ever_o by_o or_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n unto_o their_o particular_a soul_n that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o if_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o union_n be_v not_o by_o particular_a application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n then_o the_o devil_n faith_n shall_v hold_v equal_a proportion_n to_o the_o faith_n of_o soul_n unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n the_o devil_n themselves_o do_v as_o full_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o those_o precious_a absolute_a promise_n as_o any_o unite_a soul_n and_o do_v as_o full_o expect_v the_o certain_a accomplishment_n of_o they_o unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n 2._o then_o shall_v the_o soul_n dependence_n upon_o jesus_n christ_n be_v without_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o suitable_a ground_n for_o the_o dependence_n the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n can_v have_v no_o ground_n but_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n in_o regard_n all_o those_o grace_n that_o be_v describe_v in_o any_o word_n of_o god_n that_o shall_v seem_v to_o be_v conditional_a promise_n those_o be_v not_o discover_v at_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o unless_o the_o absolute_a promise_n prove_v a_o particular_a ground_n to_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o that_o absolute_a promise_n see_v the_o lord_n particular_o tender_v himself_o to_o accept_v it_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o ground_n for_o that_o dependence_n prem_n 3._o it_o be_v also_o grant_v that_o this_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n unto_o soul_n
do_v go_v before_o the_o act_n of_o any_o other_o holy_a quality_n in_o those_o soul_n faith_n be_v the_o first_o habit_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n though_o not_o in_o time_n that_o be_v infuse_v into_o any_o soul_n it_o do_v also_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n work_n and_o manifest_v itself_o in_o act_v before_o any_o other_o habit_n whatsoever_o and_o therefore_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o that_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n must_v be_v before_o there_o be_v a_o manifestation_n of_o any_o other_o holy_a quality_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o thence_o in_o regard_n this_o particular_a way_n in_o apply_v these_o absolute_a promise_n be_v without_o any_o holy_a quality_n in_o soul_n there_o can_v be_v no_o other_o word_n but_o only_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o this_o faith_n can_v arise_v this_o be_v general_o grant_v of_o all_o and_o from_o thence_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o the_o absolute_a general_a promise_n of_o god_n that_o be_v hold_v forth_o as_o make_v unto_o the_o people_n and_o church_n of_o god_n alone_o that_o be_v a_o particular_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n first_o confidence_n or_o adherence_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o that_o the_o general_a absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n do_v speak_v particular_o to_o every_o soul_n who_o attain_v any_o right_a or_o interest_n in_o it_o second_o i_o shall_v answer_v affirmative_o that_o it_o be_v a_o particular_a ground_n of_o faith_n of_o assurance_n or_o a_o particular_a evidence_n to_o assure_v a_o soul_n faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o i_o shall_v open_v in_o two_o conclusion_n conclu_n 1._o the_o absolute_a promise_n be_v sufficient_a to_o reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n faith_n a_o certainty_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o equivalency_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n that_o run_v to_o all_o soul_n to_o any_o particular_a promise_n that_o can_v be_v make_v paul_n manifest_v as_o full_a a_o certainty_n of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v hold_v forth_o to_o he_o in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n as_o if_o he_o have_v have_v a_o particular_a word_n from_o heaven_n say_v thou_o paul_n shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o 1_o tim._n 1.15_o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n what_o be_v that_o that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n here_o be_v as_o far_o off_o a_o remote_a promise_n as_o can_v be_v that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n what_o then_o of_o who_o i_o be_o chief_a as_o if_o he_o shall_v have_v say_v the_o lord_n christ_n come_v to_o save_v i_o where_o he_o make_v christ_n send_v into_o the_o world_n particular_o to_o save_v his_o soul_n and_o certain_o the_o same_o promise_n be_v able_a to_o give_v the_o soul_n that_o particular_a certainty_n that_o paul_n do_v receive_v do_v the_o same_o light_n appear_v from_o the_o promise_n as_o do_v to_o paul_n but_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o equivalency_n in_o what_o the_o absolute_a promise_n can_v give_v to_o testify_v union_n to_o what_o a_o particular_a promise_n give_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o latitude_n or_o largeness_n and_o extensiveness_n of_o the_o promise_n itself_o the_o promise_n that_o be_v of_o absolute_a mercy_n and_o be_v declare_v to_o be_v the_o absolute_a will_n of_o god_n concern_v his_o people_n soul_n they_o be_v all_o propound_v as_o indefinite_a proposition_n that_o be_v without_o any_o certain_a bound_n in_o that_o promise_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n there_o be_v no_o bound_n set_v to_o it_o neither_o this_o kind_n of_o sinner_n or_o that_o kind_a of_o sinner_n such_o as_o be_v thus_o and_o thus_o rebellious_a but_o sinner_n so_o mark_v 16.15_o go_v preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n preach_v the_o gospel_n what_o be_v that_o preach_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o salvation_n it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v have_v say_v go_v and_o tell_v every_o soul_n my_o father_n be_v willing_a to_o accept_v their_o rebellious_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o myself_o and_o unless_o this_o be_v receive_v tender_v the_o gospel_n be_v not_o preach_v exclude_v the_o declare_v of_o god_n will_v to_o every_o particular_a soul_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o you_o exclude_v the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n the_o angel_n luke_n 2.10_o when_o he_o bring_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o jesus_n christ_n say_v i_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n to_o who_o to_o such_o a_o nation_n or_o people_n no_o i_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n to_o all_o people_n there_o be_v no_o other_o bound_n set_v but_o the_o world_n itself_o if_o a_o man_n come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o creature_n he_o come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o promise_n he_o can_v say_v but_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n if_o he_o will_v embrace_v the_o lord_n christ_n 2._o it_o appear_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o expresness_n of_o the_o command_n to_o every_o soul_n particular_o to_o apply_v the_o promise_n 1_o john_n 3.23_o this_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o again_o this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n now_o believe_v can_v contain_v but_o two_o thing_n either_o a_o give_a credit_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o and_o sure_o this_o can_v be_v mean_v for_o the_o devil_n themselves_o believe_v as_o much_o or_o else_o a_o receive_n unto_o their_o particular_a soul_n what_o the_o lord_n there_o tender_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o if_o you_o observe_v it_o the_o scripture_n phrase_n general_o hold_v forth_o believe_v in_o this_o sense_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o believe_a and_o receive_v in_o scripture_n be_v put_v both_o for_o one_o 1_o john_n 1.12_o now_o that_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o command_n of_o believe_a reach_n thus_o far_o to_o a_o particular_a application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n to_o themselves_o will_v be_v clear_v by_o two_o particular_n 1._o in_o regard_v all_o unbelief_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o be_v virtual_o and_o eminent_o forbid_v in_o this_o command_n of_o believe_v when_o any_o positive_a duty_n be_v enjoin_v by_o god_n the_o contrary_n must_v needs_o be_v forbid_v by_o the_o same_o law_n virtual_o and_o all_o the_o evil_a consequence_n of_o whatever_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o duty_n enjoin_v now_o believe_v be_v enjoin_v virtual_o unbelief_n and_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o unbelief_n be_v forbid_v the_o fruit_n of_o unbelief_n be_v doubt_v and_o so_o all_o doubt_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o fulfil_v his_o promise_n of_o accept_v the_o 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the_o lord_n christ_n yet_o do_v not_o mistake_v i_o i_o do_v not_o say_v the_o command_n be_v of_o such_o a_o extent_n that_o it_o do_v express_o command_v every_o one_o to_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v one_o in_o christ_n for_o then_o the_o promise_n shall_v command_v he_o to_o believe_v a_o lie_n in_o regard_n the_o great_a number_n be_v at_o enmity_n but_o the_o extent_n of_o the_o command_n be_v to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o he_o be_v willing_a to_o receive_v he_o and_o this_o the_o lord_n enjoin_v the_o most_o rebellious_a wretch_n wherever_o the_o gospel_n come_v the_o first_o command_n to_o such_o rebellious_a soul_n be_v to_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v willing_a to_o receive_v their_o rebellious_a soul_n into_o union_n
with_o himself_o conclu_n 2._o there_o be_v as_o great_a a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o there_o be_v to_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o ground_n of_o particular_a dependence_n upon_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o union_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o particular_n 1._o in_o regard_n confidence_n of_o the_o particularity_n of_o the_o promise_n be_v of_o the_o essence_n and_o be_v both_o of_o faith_n of_o dependence_n and_o faith_n of_o assurance_n take_v away_o particular_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n particular_a will_n towards_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o you_o destroy_v the_o faith_n of_o adherence_n take_v away_o the_o particular_a confidence_n and_o there_o remain_v nothing_o but_o a_o bare_a general_a belief_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v tender_v 2._o both_o the_o confidence_n 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certain_a infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n but_o now_o say_v the_o soul_n by_o what_o mean_n be_v the_o promise_n make_v efficacious_a for_o this_o end_n how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o bare_a absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n do_v manifest_a to_o the_o particular_a soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o question_n i_o must_v first_o premise_v divers_a thing_n for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o it_o and_o then_o lie_v down_o the_o answer_n in_o positive_a conclusion_n prem_n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n have_v a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n in_o itself_o to_o discover_v at_o all_o time_n to_o every_o particular_a soul_n in_o what_o condition_n soever_o under_o what_o temptation_n in_o what_o cloud_n and_o darkness_n soever_o that_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v to_o receive_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o he_o shall_v accept_v the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n and_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o though_o indeed_o the_o promise_n work_v this_o effect_n very_o rare_o in_o soul_n yet_o at_o all_o time_n the_o promise_n have_v that_o sufficiency_n in_o itself_o and_o there_o be_v no_o addition_n make_v by_o god_n to_o the_o promise_n neither_o by_o word_n nor_o light_n neither_o by_o way_n of_o particularise_v soul_n nor_o by_o way_n of_o comprehensiveness_n to_o make_v it_o conclude_v soul_n neither_o do_v the_o soul_n build_v upon_o any_o thing_n add_v to_o the_o promise_n but_o the_o promise_n itself_o be_v the_o absolute_a ground_n that_o the_o soul_n always_o build_v upon_o in_o receive_v evidence_n from_o it_o now_o because_o the_o promise_n itself_o do_v not_o at_o every_o time_n and_o in_o every_o condition_n manifest_a unto_o that_o soul_n thus_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o who_o it_o have_v evidence_v his_o union_n therefore_o think_v some_o soul_n it_o be_v something_o superad_v to_o the_o promise_n and_o some_o again_o be_v ready_a on_o the_o other_o side_n to_o conclude_v from_o the_o position_n itself_o that_o the_o absolute_a promise_n shall_v give_v the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o it_o must_v be_v from_o some_o revelation_n of_o god_n that_o be_v add_v to_o the_o promise_n a_o kind_n of_o revelation_n of_o the_o soul_n name_n to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n and_o so_o the_o soul_n shall_v not_o build_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o upon_o some_o superadded_a revelation_n but_o neither_o of_o both_o these_o must_v be_v conceive_v but_o the_o promise_n have_v always_o a_o sufficiency_n of_o light_a to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o only_o this_o promise_n of_o god_n or_o discovery_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v lay_v as_o the_o tower_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n must_v have_v a_o wise_a master_n builder_n to_o lay_v it_o it_o be_v with_o this_o foundation_n as_o with_o other_o foundation_n when_o the_o timber_n be_v hew_v and_o square_a fit_n for_o a_o groundsel_n it_o must_v have_v a_o wise_a master_n builder_n to_o lay_v it_o for_o a_o foundation_n so_o the_o soul_n must_v have_v instruction_n from_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n to_o lay_v this_o foundation_n so_o as_o he_o may_v see_v his_o assurance_n stand_v firm_a upon_o it_o prem_n 2._o second_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o whatsoever_o be_v employ_v by_o god_n in_o a_o subordination_n to_o his_o will_n for_o the_o effect_v any_o end_n that_o be_v intend_v by_o god_n that_o be_v the_o mean_n of_o produce_v or_o effect_v such_o a_o end_n this_o i_o premise_v that_o we_o may_v understand_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o mean_n when_o we_o say_v by_o what_o mean_n be_v this_o promise_n make_v sufficient_a to_o give_v the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n god_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v as_o the_o primary_n efficient_a cause_n upon_o which_o all_o thing_n have_v their_o dependence_n and_o all_o thing_n employ_v by_o god_n for_o effect_v that_o be_v inferior_a cause_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n himself_o they_o be_v call_v mean_n though_o in_o respect_n of_o create_a cause_n some_o such_o inferior_a cause_n may_v be_v call_v a_o principal_a cause_n so_o that_o whatever_o be_v employ_v by_o god_n for_o effect_v this_o end_n of_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v effectual_a for_o that_o use_n prem_n 3._o three_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a and_o various_a mean_n that_o do_v common_o concur_v together_o for_o effect_v one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n though_o they_o have_v divers_a relation_n unto_o the_o end_n and_o work_v diverse_o for_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o there_o may_v be_v divers_a kind_n of_o influence_n from_o divers_a thing_n to_o one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n and_o whatever_o have_v influence_n into_o the_o end_n come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o cause_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o principal_a cause_n it_o come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o mean_n so_o in_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o evidence_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o may_v and_o do_v concur_v for_o effect_v that_o bless_a end_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o draw_v from_o the_o absolute_a promise_n the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n though_o those_o various_a thing_n work_v in_o a_o various_a manner_n and_o one_o have_v influence_n into_o the_o end_n and_o another_o have_v another_o influence_n and_o so_o be_v look_v at_o as_o divers_a in_o relation_n to_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o assurance_n prem_n 4._o four_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o
distinction_n about_o cause_n or_o mean_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v understand_v for_o understand_v this_o question_n by_o what_o mean_v the_o promise_n be_v make_v sufficient_a to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o the_o soul_n must_v understand_v the_o distinction_n between_o the_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n and_o the_o less_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n though_o there_o be_v proper_o unto_o every_o action_n but_o one_o principal_a cause_n yet_o in_o respect_n of_o instrumental_a cause_n there_o may_v be_v many_o thing_n that_o may_v have_v the_o respect_n of_o efficient_a cause_n for_o the_o produce_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n though_o there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a neither_o unless_o it_o be_v coordinate_a 2._o you_o must_v understand_v that_o the_o mean_n or_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n be_v divide_v again_o into_o natural_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n and_o artificial_a the_o natural_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v that_o which_o work_v by_o its_o own_o natural_a inbred_a virtue_n that_o be_v by_o a_o proper_a disposition_n of_o its_o own_o and_o by_o a_o power_n that_o it_o have_v in_o itself_o without_o dependence_n upon_o any_o create_a cause_n though_o nothing_o that_o be_v a_o instrumental_a cause_n can_v be_v say_v to_o work_v by_o his_o own_o virtue_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n 3._o you_o must_v understand_v that_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v again_o either_o as_o those_o that_o be_v mediate_a cause_n or_o immediate_a cause_n the_o mediate_a efficient_a cause_n be_v that_o which_o contribute_v something_o to_o the_o produce_v the_o effect_n that_o be_v that_o which_o have_v some_o influence_n into_o the_o great_a effect_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n either_o direct_o or_o indirect_o though_o it_o be_v but_o a_o far_o off_o there_o be_v many_o immediate_a thing_n that_o come_v between_o that_o make_v up_o the_o soul_n evidence_n the_o immediate_a cause_n that_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o work_v so_o immediate_o that_o nothing_o intervene_v between_o the_o effect_n which_o be_v the_o soul_n assurance_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o which_o have_v the_o last_o stroke_n as_o i_o may_v say_v that_o be_v proper_o the_o immediate_a cause_n that_o which_o be_v once_o effect_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o soul_n do_v immediate_o and_o without_o intermission_n of_o time_n draw_v the_o conclusion_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o immediate_a efficient_a cause_n 4._o instrumental_a cause_n be_v such_o as_o either_o solitary_a efficient_a cause_n or_o combine_v efficient_a cause_n that_o be_v such_o cause_n as_o work_v by_o themselves_o without_o other_o to_o produce_v such_o a_o effect_n or_o else_o such_o as_o work_v by_o other_o cause_v not_o without_o respect_n there_o be_v a_o efficient_a cause_n alone_o and_o a_o concause_n with_o another_o and_o both_o contribute_v assistance_n to_o the_o same_o thing_n 5._o these_o efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v divide_v again_o into_o subordinate_a cause_n or_o coordinate_a cause_n that_o be_v such_o instrumental_a cause_n that_o though_o they_o work_v together_o be_v in_o a_o subordination_n to_o one_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n or_o else_o such_o as_o produce_v a_o equal_a power_n joint_o together_o for_o the_o effect_v the_o same_o thing_n it_o be_v then_o that_o efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n be_v subordinate_a when_o one_o have_v the_o supremacy_n and_o all_o have_v dependence_n upon_o one_o though_o many_o thing_n have_v influence_n into_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o they_o be_v coordinate_a when_o they_o have_v equal_a dependence_n one_o upon_o another_o one_o not_o be_v able_a to_o work_v without_o another_o now_o all_o these_o distinction_n of_o cause_n must_v be_v understand_v for_o a_o right_n clear_a understanding_n of_o this_o question_n by_o what_o mean_v a_o soul_n do_v attain_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n now_o these_o thing_n be_v premise_v i_o shall_v lay_v down_o the_o answer_n in_o positive_a conclusion_n answ_n 1._o first_o i_o answer_v direct_o to_o the_o question_n that_o there_o be_v divers_a mediate_v and_o less_o principal_a cause_n that_o do_v afar_o off_o help_v something_o for_o the_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o absolute_a promise_n there_o be_v divers_a such_o cause_n that_o be_v partly_o artificial_a and_o partly_o natural_a of_o this_o nature_n i_o may_v reckon_v up_o divers_a as_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n in_o the_o open_n and_o clear_v the_o nature_n the_o largeness_n of_o the_o extent_n and_o the_o excellency_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n to_o a_o soul_n likewise_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o sacrament_n either_o of_o baptism_n or_o the_o lord_n supper_n the_o element_n of_o water_n in_o one_o be_v appoint_v by_o christ_n himself_o in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o to_o discover_v the_o soul_n partake_v of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n by_o be_v bury_v in_o the_o water_n and_o to_o signify_v the_o soul_n partake_v of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n by_o rise_v out_o of_o the_o water_n and_o so_o consequent_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o death_n and_o life_n consequent_o seal_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o jesus_n christ_n die_v for_o he_o and_o live_v for_o he_o so_o the_o other_o sacrament_n the_o element_n of_o bread_n and_o wine_n be_v appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n to_o signify_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o break_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o effusion_n of_o his_o blood_n and_o the_o application_n of_o those_o element_n to_o he_o be_v element_n by_o which_o his_o body_n shall_v be_v refresh_v and_o clear_v be_v appoint_v to_o show_v the_o life_n and_o nourishment_n of_o his_o soul_n to_o be_v from_o christ_n alone_o these_o sacrament_n in_o their_o right_a institution_n may_v be_v instrumental_a immediate_a cause_n afar_o off_o to_o contribute_v to_o a_o soul_n something_o of_o his_o union_n so_o prayer_n meditation_n and_o christian_a conference_n inquire_v into_o the_o freeness_n of_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o latitude_n of_o it_o and_o every_o spiritual_a ordinance_n of_o god_n wherein_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n be_v bring_v to_o any_o remembrance_n may_v contribute_v something_o to_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n which_o be_v proper_o artificial_a cause_n not_o natural_a but_o of_o a_o mix_a kind_n partly_o artificial_a and_o partly_o natural_a and_o all_o these_o be_v in_o this_o kind_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n they_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v mean_n by_o which_o the_o soul_n attain_v the_o infallible_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o it_o be_v very_o seldom_o if_o i_o may_v not_o say_v never_o but_o god_n use_v one_o of_o these_o mean_n to_o clear_v up_o to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v common_o â—â—â—eived_v that_o there_o be_v three_o more_o immediate_a joint_n concur_v cause_n to_o make_v up_o to_o the_o soul_n the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n from_o the_o promise_n though_o those_o forename_a mean_n do_v work_v instrumental_o for_o that_o end_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o that_o do_v work_v more_o inward_o that_o be_v common_o receive_v to_o be_v joint_a cause_n work_v for_o one_o and_o the_o same_o end_n i_o mean_v for_o assure_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o i._o the_o irradiation_n i_o mean_v the_o bright_a shine_a light_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v set_v up_o as_o a_o precious_a heavenly_a lamp_n that_o shine_v so_o clear_o into_o the_o dark_a soul_n that_o it_o make_v the_o soul_n see_v in_o a_o sensible_a way_n that_o he_o do_v receive_v the_o promise_n and_o embrace_v the_o lord_n jesus_n give_v in_o that_o promise_n faith_n give_v the_o soul_n such_o a_o feel_a experience_n that_o it_o do_v receive_v the_o promise_n of_o jesus_n christ_n give_v even_o when_o it_o be_v receive_v of_o it_o his_o soul_n grasp_v jesus_n christ_n so_o powerful_o as_o he_o feel_v his_o arm_n grasp_v jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o promise_n ii_o there_o be_v the_o conclusion_n renew_v conscience_n draw_v by_o the_o strength_n of_o spiritual_a and_o experimental_a reason_n that_o the_o promise_n be_v unto_o his_o particular_a soul_n and_o that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n as_o appear_v from_o the_o promise_n the_o truth_n of_o it_o appear_v from_o rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v son_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o two_o fold_v witness_n the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o our_o spirit_n which_o can_v be_v nothing_o but_o the_o renew_a understanding_n or_o conscience_n that_o give_v the_o testimony_n and_o both_o of_o they_o witness_n at_o one_o
guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n and_o observe_v why_o for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o but_o whatever_o he_o shall_v hear_v that_o shall_v he_o speak_v he_o shall_v have_v a_o commission_n from_o heaven_n as_o it_o be_v to_o lead_v they_o into_o all_o truth_n now_o in_o this_o guide_n the_o soul_n into_o all_o truth_n there_o be_v two_o office_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v design_v to_o first_o the_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n second_o the_o application_n of_o truth_n make_v know_v first_o the_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o cast_v in_o the_o precious_a principle_n of_o spiritual_a knowledge_n whereby_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v any_o way_n apprehensive_a of_o any_o truth_n this_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n consist_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o communicate_v of_o spiritual_a light_n to_o the_o soul_n or_o in_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o spiritual_a eye_n of_o discern_v we_o be_v all_o like_a poor_a bartimeus_n bear_v blind_a the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o they_o be_v foolishness_n to_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o know_v they_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o now_o it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n alone_o to_o make_v a_o precious_a eye_n salve_n that_o may_v restore_v spiritual_a sight_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o capable_a of_o discern_a truth_n therefore_o it_o be_v say_v in_o 1_o john_n 5.20_o in_o conversion_n we_o be_v say_v to_o receive_v a_o mind_n to_o know_v he_o that_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o know_v he_o a_o understanding_n capable_a of_o know_v he_o 2._o the_o spirit_n present_v truth_n to_o that_o spiritual_a eye_n tâ—â—t_n that_o he_o have_v communicate_v therefore_o in_o eph._n 1.17_o the_o apostle_n pray_v for_o a_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n not_o only_o a_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o be_v a_o internal_a spiritual_a habit_n of_o spiritual_a light_n to_o discern_v truth_n but_o a_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n also_o that_o be_v of_o manifest_v the_o truth_n unto_o the_o soul_n 3._o in_o make_v know_v spiritual_a truth_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n remove_v all_o impediment_n that_o do_v prevent_v the_o discern_a of_o truth_n present_v though_o the_o spirit_n give_v eye_n and_z presents_z truth_n there_o may_v be_v such_o impediment_n between_o the_o soul_n eye_n and_o the_o truth_n that_o may_v prevent_v the_o soul_n discern_v there_o may_v be_v some_o film_n or_o some_o corrupt_a humour_n some_o film_n of_o lust_n or_o selfishness_n that_o may_v hinder_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o truth_n second_o the_o spirit_n make_v application_n of_o the_o truth_n know_v the_o first_o truth_n that_o god_n discover_v to_o a_o soul_n which_o be_v his_o own_o sin_n his_o guilt_n and_o danger_n of_o condemnation_n must_v as_o well_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n as_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o john_n 16.8_o the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v to_o reprove_v or_o convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n of_o righteousness_n and_o of_o judgement_n to_o make_v it_o clear_a to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o particular_a man_n that_o there_o be_v a_o judgement_n for_o he_o that_o he_o be_v one_o of_o those_o sinful_a wretch_n that_o believe_v not_o that_o the_o spirit_n also_o must_v make_v this_o application_n will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o equal_a and_o proportionable_a sense_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o every_o sinner_n understand_v sin_n and_o wrath_n if_o it_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n alone_o that_o do_v make_v application_n of_o the_o truth_n make_v know_v it_o can_v not_o be_v then_o but_o so_o far_o as_o every_o soul_n do_v understand_v what_o sin_n and_o wrath_n be_v the_o effect_n both_o of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o wrath_n will_v remain_v in_o such_o a_o heart_n but_o alas_o experience_n enough_o teach_v we_o that_o many_o sinner_n that_o have_v large_a knowledge_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o the_o consequence_n and_o effect_n of_o sin_n which_o be_v wrath_n and_o condemnation_n yet_o have_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o this_o effect_n in_o the_o least_o manner_n the_o effect_n be_v two_o condemnation_n in_o the_o soul_n judgement_n horror_n and_o anguish_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o condemnation_n he_o that_o understand_v sin_n right_o in_o the_o least_o degree_n understand_v it_o to_o be_v damnable_a therefore_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v condemnation_n in_o his_o own_o soul_n but_o nothing_o be_v more_o common_a than_o for_o man_n to_o confess_v every_o sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a and_o to_o confess_v themselves_o to_o be_v sinner_n but_o far_o off_o from_o draw_v a_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n they_o will_v be_v sure_a enough_o of_o the_o conclusion_n though_o they_o conclude_v sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a yet_o they_o will_v not_o conclude_v themselves_o to_o be_v in_o a_o damnable_a condition_n so_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o the_o second_o effect_n that_o follow_v the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n and_o that_o be_v horror_n and_o sense_n of_o the_o dreadfulness_n of_o that_o condemnation_n though_o it_o may_v be_v sometime_o a_o soul_n go_v so_o far_o as_o almost_o to_o conclude_v itself_o to_o be_v in_o a_o damn_a condition_n yet_o far_o be_v it_o from_o let_v it_o take_v effect_n upon_o his_o heart_n so_o as_o to_o lie_v heavy_a upon_o his_o heart_n as_o a_o intolerable_a burden_n therefore_o it_o be_v plain_a not_o only_o the_o reveal_n of_o the_o truth_n but_o the_o application_n of_o truth_n reveal_v depend_v upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o spirit_n must_v say_v here_o be_v thy_o sin_n and_o yonder_o be_v the_o pit_n of_o misery_n before_o a_o man_n can_v apply_v those_o truth_n to_o his_o own_o soul_n 2._o it_o must_v be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o make_v the_o application_n in_o regard_n the_o terror_n and_o horror_n for_o sin_n be_v appropriate_v by_o the_o scripture_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o his_o work_n alone_o whence_o you_o shall_v see_v rom._n 8.16_o fear_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n you_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n again_o to_o fear_v that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n again_o work_v fear_n and_o anguish_n and_o vexation_n of_o soul_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n 2._o the_o spirit_n alone_o must_v be_v the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n in_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o spirit_n particular_a and_o peculiar_a office_n that_o it_o be_v appoint_v unto_o by_o jesus_n christ_n the_o spirit_n have_v its_o office_n and_o that_o be_v to_o comfort_n and_o refresh_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o peculiar_a one_o of_o christ_n hence_o the_o name_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o comforter_n john_n 16.17_o now_o this_o be_v the_o peculiar_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n to_o comfort_v those_o that_o be_v the_o the_o member_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o that_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n in_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o promise_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o word_n of_o promise_n alone_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o consolation_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n now_o the_o spirit_n shall_v give_v soul_n but_o small_a comfort_n can_v he_o not_o give_v they_o comfort_n unto_o faith_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n reveal_v the_o everlasting_a inheritance_n to_o be_v they_o everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v they_o and_o then_o let_v they_o see_v holiness_n in_o they_o to_o be_v a_o drop_n of_o the_o inheritance_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v feed_v itself_o with_o to_o eternity_n the_o comfort_n be_v but_o small_a 2._o in_o regard_v it_o must_v be_v by_o appropriate_v the_o thing_n promise_v that_o the_o promise_n be_v able_a to_o afford_v any_o consolation_n there_o must_v be_v two_o thing_n for_o the_o soul_n to_o receive_v comfort_n from_o the_o promise_n propriety_n and_o security_n the_o soul_n must_v see_v propriety_n or_o else_o no_o love_n at_o lest_o no_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o heart_n and_o while_o there_o be_v not_o the_o satiate_a of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v no_o comfort_n comfort_n be_v the_o content_a the_o soul_n have_v in_o behold_v his_o desire_a satisfaction_n now_o whatever_o the_o soul_n see_v it_o satisfi_v not_o till_o it_o have_v a_o propriety_n in_o it_o and_o till_o there_o be_v a_o security_n
principle_n of_o darkness_n there_o be_v first_o something_o to_o be_v premise_v first_o that_o the_o soul_n understand_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o comfort_n second_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o apply_v comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n by_o comfort_n be_v mean_v only_o that_o strength_n and_o that_o life_n and_o refreshment_n that_o a_o soul_n receive_v from_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o good_a of_o any_o object_n and_o to_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n be_v to_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n with_o all_o his_o glorious_a privilege_n that_o be_v suitable_a for_o the_o poor_a needy_a despicable_a loveless_n soul_n according_a as_o god_n the_o father_n tender_v he_o to_o the_o soul_n to_o speak_v more_o plain_o to_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o he_o be_v offer_v free_o to_o be_v give_v by_o god_n to_o the_o poor_a despicable_a soul_n to_o make_v up_o a_o league_n and_o amity_n and_o love_n between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o soul_n to_o break_v in_o 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precious_a fear_n in_o the_o heart_n than_o all_o the_o terror_n sight_n and_o vision_n of_o the_o indignation_n of_o god_n against_o the_o soul_n for_o sin_n can_v possible_o beget_v all_o the_o reason_n that_o can_v be_v give_v why_o it_o shall_v endanger_v the_o soul_n to_o presume_v be_v only_o this_o that_o the_o apply_v christ_n in_o two_o large_a a_o measure_n in_o his_o comfort_n shall_v make_v the_o soul_n without_o fear_n now_o the_o soul_n be_v never_o so_o fill_v with_o holy_a fear_n as_o when_o it_o have_v the_o large_a comprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a the_o large_a comprehension_n the_o soul_n have_v of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o more_o natural_a be_v the_o love_n to_o jesus_n christ_n now_o love_n be_v extend_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n when_o it_o rest_v upon_o he_o or_o fetch_v in_o joy_n through_o believe_v and_o according_a as_o love_n be_v extend_v so_o be_v fear_v extend_v love_n and_o fear_v go_v hand_n in_o hand_n you_o can_v divide_v they_o a_o man_n of_o large_a love_n be_v a_o man_n of_o large_a fear_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a the_o more_o dear_a any_o object_n be_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o more_o a_o man_n fear_v to_o lose_v it_o four_o when_o the_o lord_n christ_n be_v apply_v most_o for_o comfort_n then_o do_v a_o holy_a jealousy_n rise_v high_a in_o the_o heart_n when_o love_n rise_v high_a jealousy_n rise_v high_a jealousy_n be_v compound_v of_o love_n and_o anger_n or_o love_n and_o hatred_n where_o love_n run_v out_o large_o in_o zeal_n there_o be_v a_o zeal_n of_o hatred_n against_o all_o that_o shall_v deprive_v we_o of_o it_o put_v a_o fearful_a man_n and_o a_o jealous_a man_n together_o to_z watch_z over_o a_o belove_a object_n and_o you_o need_v not_o fear_v their_o sleep_v thus_o fear_v and_o jealousy_n meet_v together_o in_o the_o soul_n will_v make_v it_o watchful_a lest_o there_o shall_v be_v the_o least_o outgoing_a of_o the_o heart_n from_o jesus_n christ_n second_o neither_o can_v it_o dry_v up_o the_o repent_v or_o penitent_a tear_n too_o soon_o it_o be_v as_o impossible_a that_o the_o spring_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n shall_v be_v seal_v up_o by_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o the_o large_a measure_n for_o the_o comfort_v of_o the_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v make_v the_o soul_n presume_v the_o foundation_n of_o this_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v lay_v upon_o a_o twofold_a mistake_n first_o that_o the_o discern_a eye_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o sin_n shall_v be_v discern_v shall_v be_v close_v up_o with_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o apprehension_n of_o large_a comfort_n from_o jesus_n christ_n second_o that_o the_o sight_n or_o apprehension_n of_o a_o defect_n of_o comfort_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o his_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a shall_v be_v the_o original_a of_o true_a godly_a sorrow_n and_o so_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n shall_v perish_v when_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n suitable_a to_o his_o needy_a soul_n appear_v now_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o he_o may_v see_v his_o own_o wretchedness_n merit_n and_o desert_n be_v more_o clear_a by_o the_o sight_n of_o enlarge_a comfort_n from_o jesus_n christ_n i._o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n receive_v more_o divine_a light_n to_o discover_v sin_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o by_o how_o much_o in_o a_o great_a degree_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v enlarge_v comfort_n through_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o be_v that_o precious_a eyesalve_n speak_v of_o rev._n 3._o that_o christ_n invit_v soul_n to_o come_v and_o buy_v of_o he_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n mary_n weep_v so_o much_o and_o wash_v the_o foot_n of_o jesus_n christ_n with_o her_o tear_n christ_n tell_v you_o it_o be_v because_o she_o love_v much_o and_o what_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o that_o love_n but_o only_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n to_o she_o in_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o the_o apprehension_n of_o a_o defect_n of_o comfort_n in_o the_o lord_n christ_n suitable_a to_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a can_v be_v a_o spring_n or_o head_n from_o whence_o the_o stream_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n flow_v godly_a sorrow_n must_v arise_v from_o the_o clear_a most_o spiritual_a sin_n now_o you_o see_v the_o clear_a discern_v of_o sin_n in_o a_o spiritual_a manner_n do_v arise_v from_o the_o clear_a discern_v of_o those_o enlarge_a comfort_n through_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o indeed_o as_o those_o increase_n so_o do_v godly_a sorrow_n increase_v the_o great_a comfort_v soul_n be_v the_o great_a mourning_n soul_n now_o you_o see_v the_o foundation_n be_v too_o weak_a to_o bear_v up_o this_o principle_n and_o also_o that_o it_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n
there_o can_v be_v but_o two_o sense_n in_o which_o this_o proposition_n can_v be_v take_v first_o it_o must_v either_o be_v mean_v thus_o that_o the_o lord_n christ_n must_v not_o be_v apply_v for_o comfort_v of_o soul_n too_o much_o that_o be_v not_o apply_v to_o comfort_v the_o soul_n in_o his_o necessity_n with_o two_o great_a a_o confidence_n now_o there_o it_o cross_v the_o precious_a heavenly_a light_n that_o shine_v from_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n the_o lord_n christ_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o great_a command_n that_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v he_o whole_a with_o all_o his_o privilege_n propound_v to_o the_o soul_n with_o a_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o abraham_n faith_n be_v commend_v that_o he_o do_v not_o doubt_v at_o all_o rom._n 4.18_o 19_o 20._o or_o second_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n too_o much_o must_v be_v mean_v thus_o that_o he_o may_v be_v apply_v too_o confident_o to_o the_o soul_n with_o too_o large_a a_o comprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a riches_n of_o all_o excellency_n that_o be_v treasure_v up_o for_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o to_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o comfort_n too_o much_o this_o way_n do_v also_o direct_o oppose_v the_o scripture_n 1._o it_o be_v common_o the_o frequent_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n for_o the_o saint_n that_o they_o may_v have_v the_o full_a comprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o their_o soul_n eph._n 1.17_o 18._o he_o pray_v that_o their_o understanding_n may_v be_v enlighten_v that_o they_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o call_n that_o be_v that_o they_o may_v know_v the_o glorious_a thing_n that_o they_o be_v call_v to_o in_o jesus_n christ_n so_o eph._n 3.18_o he_o will_v have_v they_o know_v the_o exceed_a riches_n of_o his_o grace_n to_o they_o that_o believe_v he_o will_v have_v they_o comprehend_v the_o dimension_n of_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n to_o they_o 2._o it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o all_o his_o people_n may_v have_v fullness_n of_o joy_n john_n 15.11_o these_o thing_n have_v i_o speak_v unto_o you_o that_o your_o joy_n may_v be_v full_a that_o be_v also_o the_o apostle_n prayer_n rom._n 15.13_o the_o god_n of_o hope_n fill_v you_o with_o all_o joy_n and_o peace_n in_o believe_v that_o you_o may_v abound_v in_o hope_n through_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 3._o it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o the_o soul_n comprehend_v the_o excellency_n treasure_v up_o in_o jesus_n christ_n for_o his_o soul_n that_o it_o partake_v of_o the_o excellency_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v change_v into_o the_o the_o likeness_n of_o christ_n 1_o john_n 3.2_o so_o that_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o clear_o contradict_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o say_v the_o soul_n must_v not_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o much_o that_o be_v with_o too_o large_a a_o comprehension_n of_o the_o privilege_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o his_o soul_n but_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v about_o this_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o 1._o though_o jesus_n christ_n can_v be_v apply_v for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n too_o much_o be_v the_o soul_n in_o what_o condition_n it_o can_v be_v yet_o the_o lord_n christ_n may_v be_v look_v into_o for_o comfort_v a_o soul_n too_o much_o that_o be_v when_o soul_n look_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n for_o comfort_n without_o receive_v he_o as_o he_o be_v tender_v by_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n though_o christ_n be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o true_a comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n yet_o it_o be_v christ_n as_o he_o be_v in_o union_n with_o the_o soul_n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o goodness_n of_o a_o object_n simple_o and_o absolute_o consider_v that_o do_v send_v down_o strength_n and_o life_n into_o the_o heart_n in_o behold_v of_o it_o but_o it_o be_v the_o goodness_n of_o a_o object_n appropriate_v to_o its_o self_n 2._o jesus_n christ_n may_v be_v apply_v by_o other_o for_o comfort_v their_o soul_n too_o much_o i_o mean_v to_o affirm_v to_o any_o particular_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n with_o his_o glorious_a privilege_n be_v he_o this_o be_v apply_v jesus_n christ_n for_o comfort_v they_o too_o much_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a in_o regard_n it_o be_v out_o of_o god_n way_n though_o these_o two_o caution_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v yet_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v remove_v before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o certain_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v one_o principle_n of_o darkness_n more_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o a_o soul_n must_v discern_v his_o peculiar_a right_n to_o darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o interest_n in_o the_o particular_a promise_n before_o he_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o meaning_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v this_o that_o he_o must_v behold_v some_o promise_n pass_v over_o to_o he_o by_o jesus_n christ_n before_o he_o can_v believe_v it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o principle_n be_v so_o cunning_o forge_v in_o hell_n that_o it_o be_v scarce_o discern_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o light_n we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o help_v you_o to_o discern_v it_o to_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n i_o find_v three_o foundation_n upon_o which_o this_o principle_n be_v build_v 1._o that_o it_o can_v possible_o be_v lawful_a for_o every_o soul_n to_o believe_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o take_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n for_o say_v the_o soul_n than_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v put_v upon_o it_o to_o believe_v a_o lie_n 2._o that_o it_o must_v be_v through_o a_o soul_n right_a to_o some_o promise_n that_o he_o come_v to_o have_v a_o right_n to_o jesus_n christ_n now_o this_o be_v a_o false_a foundation_n because_o there_o can_v be_v no_o interest_n nor_o right_v the_o soul_n can_v have_v to_o one_o promise_n of_o god_n before_o the_o soul_n be_v bind_v to_o believe_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o first_o promise_n be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o and_o the_o very_a primary_n object_n of_o faith_n be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_o this_o you_o shall_v observe_v gen._n 3.15_o the_o first_o promise_n that_o be_v give_v to_o adam_n be_v that_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n which_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o promise_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o when_o the_o promise_n be_v first_o renew_v to_o abraham_n it_o be_v in_o these_o word_n in_o thy_o seed_n shall_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v what_o be_v that_o seed_n it_o be_v jesus_n christ_n gal._n 3.16_o so_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o preach_v lay_v jesus_n christ_n as_o the_o first_o object_n of_o faith_n believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 3._o a_o three_o foundation_n of_o this_o principle_n be_v this_o that_o only_o those_o promise_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o holy_a qualiquality_n in_o sanctify_a soul_n be_v assure_v promise_n or_o promise_n that_o can_v assure_v unto_o a_o soul_n faith_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n say_v the_o soul_n there_o be_v invite_v promise_n and_o assure_v promise_n now_o invite_v promise_n speak_v so_o general_a as_o none_o can_v discern_v his_o union_n from_o thence_o but_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o grace_n they_o in_o a_o manner_n particularize_v soul_n now_o hence_o the_o soul_n conclude_v thus_o it_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v a_o necessary_a precedent_n before_o a_o soul_n assurance_n that_o god_n will_v take_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o see_v some_o holy_a quality_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o such_o promise_n now_o observe_v the_o gross_a darkness_n and_o blindness_n in_o conceive_v invite_a promise_n not_o to_o be_v able_a to_o give_v assurance_n to_o a_o soul_n faith_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o or_o three_o thing_n 1._o then_o the_o soul_n must_v conceive_v that_o those_o promise_n that_o the_o lord_n propound_v in_o the_o invite_a of_o the_o soul_n to_o christ_n may_v not_o be_v believe_v with_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n and_o assurance_n now_o 1._o thence_o the_o soul_n must_v conceive_v that_o some_o portion_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v not_o sufficient_a authority_n to_o be_v believe_v undoubted_o by_o the_o soul_n now_o what_o a_o high_a indignity_n be_v offer_v to_o god_n in_o entertain_v such_o a_o thought_n that_o any_o
either_o in_o his_o heart_n or_o life_n 1._o to_o convince_v he_o of_o all_o his_o voluntary_a defect_n by_o discern_v how_o the_o principle_n of_o other_o christian_n be_v improve_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n the_o soul_n may_v convince_v himself_o of_o his_o wilful_a defect_n that_o he_o that_o have_v receive_v the_o same_o principle_n shall_v walk_v so_o far_o contrary_a to_o god_n 2._o the_o soul_n may_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v itself_o of_o all_o his_o unsuitable_a walk_n to_o his_o profession_n by_o gaze_v upon_o the_o brightness_n of_o that_o principle_n of_o christianity_n profess_v by_o other_o christian_n that_o shine_v forth_o in_o their_o conversation_n 3._o the_o soul_n may_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v itself_o of_o his_o own_o unsutableness_n in_o his_o walk_n to_o his_o engagement_n unto_o god_n 4._o and_o last_o of_o his_o unsuitableness_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n v._o every_o soul_n ought_v to_o endeavour_v to_o break_v his_o own_o heart_n for_o any_o disproportion_n he_o can_v discern_v between_o his_o own_o life_n and_o the_o life_n of_o other_o christian_n between_o his_o own_o grace_n and_o their_o grace_n there_o be_v many_o precious_a soul-melting_a argument_n that_o a_o soul_n may_v help_v itself_o to_o towards_o the_o break_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n for_o any_o unsuitable_a walk_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n by_o measure_v his_o own_o life_n and_o grace_n with_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o christian_n 1._o the_o soul_n may_v be_v help_v to_o a_o clear_a sight_n of_o the_o transcendency_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o soul_n 2._o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o superlative_a degree_n of_o the_o perverseness_n of_o his_o heart_n to_o god_n see_v the_o disproportion_n between_o himself_o and_o other_o christian_n he_o may_v say_v lord_n what_o a_o curse_a crooked_a hellish_a perverse_a heart_n have_v i_o 3._o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o height_n of_o dishonour_n do_v to_o jesus_n christ_n by_o he_o when_o he_o shall_v see_v that_o those_o that_o he_o profess_v himself_o to_o be_v fellow_n member_n with_o so_o bear_v up_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o image_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o their_o conversation_n and_o then_o reflect_v upon_o himself_o and_o see_v scarce_o so_o much_o as_o any_o spark_n of_o that_o glorious_a image_n of_o christ_n to_o shine_v forth_o in_o he_o 4._o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o inward_a holy_a shame_n to_o seize_v upon_o it_o to_o see_v the_o growth_n and_o increase_n of_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n his_o brethren_n and_o see_v himself_o so_o barren_a so_o empty_a and_o poor_a vi_o every_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o pass_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n against_o his_o own_o soul_n from_o a_o discovery_n of_o any_o unsutableness_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n to_o the_o heart_n and_o life_n of_o other_o christian_n vii_o a_o soul_n may_v measure_v himself_o so_o far_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o as_o to_o draw_v quicken_a argument_n from_o thence_o to_o awaken_v his_o heart_n to_o more_o watchfulness_n diligence_n and_o circumspection_n 1._o from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o other_o christian_n excel_v his_o own_o a_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o propound_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n separation_n of_o his_o soul_n as_o only_o peculiar_a to_o himself_o as_o well_o as_o the_o soul_n of_o those_o that_o so_o much_o excel_v he_o in_o grace_n 2._o a_o soul_n may_v from_o thence_o propound_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n predestination_n of_o he_o to_o as_o full_a a_o a_o participation_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n as_o any_o of_o those_o that_o he_o see_v excel_v he_o in_o grace_n from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v argue_v with_o god_n why_o shall_v other_o have_v such_o a_o large_a spark_n of_o grace_n from_o christ_n when_o i_o be_o so_o empty_a and_o poor_a and_o have_v scarce_o any_o thing_n of_o christ_n 3._o a_o soul_n may_v from_o hence_o find_v out_o this_o argument_n that_o the_o glory_n and_o honour_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o much_o depend_v upon_o his_o soul_n as_o upon_o the_o soul_n of_o other_o christian_n that_o so_o far_o excel_v he_o in_o grace_n 4._o the_o soul_n may_v from_o thence_o propound_v to_o himself_o a_o necessity_n of_o conformity_n between_o all_o the_o member_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o thereby_o awaken_v his_o heart_n to_o strive_v for_o the_o height_n of_o perfection_n or_o grace_n that_o he_o discern_v in_o any_o christian_n viii_o and_o last_o the_o soul_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o keep_v a_o constant_a view_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o all_o other_o christian_n within_o his_o sight_n with_o a_o constant_a reflection_n upon_o his_o own_o heart_n so_o as_o to_o provoke_v he_o to_o jealousy_n to_o a_o kind_n of_o emulation_n lest_o other_o christian_n shall_v magnify_v and_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n by_o a_o suitable_a conversation_n more_o than_o he_o thus_o you_o see_v how_o far_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o christian_n to_o measure_v himself_o by_o other_o christian_n by_o their_o heart_n and_o life_n their_o grace_n and_o duty_n the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v when_o a_o soul_n measure_v himself_o by_o other_o christian_n become_v a_o dark_a sinful_a distemper_n or_o when_o a_o soul_n measure_v himself_o too_o too_o much_o by_o other_o christian_n so_o that_o by_o measure_v himself_o by_o other_o he_o keep_v himself_o from_o that_o bless_a heavenly_a light_n that_o shall_v shine_v into_o his_o heart_n whereby_o he_o may_v receive_v satisfaction_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v four_o way_n how_o this_o measure_n a_o man_n self_n by_o other_o christian_n become_v a_o dark_a distemper_n i._o when_o a_o man_n make_v his_o conformity_n to_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o other_o christian_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o faith_n either_o in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o consent_v to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n reveal_v or_o else_o in_o the_o renew_a exercise_n of_o faith_n again_o upon_o any_o occasion_n that_o be_v thus_o when_o the_o soul_n conceive_v himself_o to_o have_v good_a ground_n to_o hope_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v willing_a to_o accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n when_o he_o see_v the_o same_o holiness_n and_o activity_n of_o spirit_n for_o god_n the_o same_o heavenliness_n and_o spirituality_n the_o same_o precious_a disposition_n work_v in_o their_o strength_n in_o his_o soul_n to_o god_n that_o he_o discern_v to_o be_v in_o other_o christian_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o soul_n conceive_v himself_o to_o have_v no_o good_a ground_n to_o believe_v the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n in_o christ_n when_o he_o discern_v a_o great_a disproportion_n between_o his_o heart_n and_o other_o christian_n when_o he_o behold_v his_o own_o heart_n dead_a and_o other_o christian_n lively_a his_o own_o heart_n shut_v up_o and_o other_o enlarge_v in_o all_o their_o faculty_n towards_o god_n this_o distemper_n be_v both_o exceed_a sinful_a and_o exceed_v dark_a when_o it_o grow_v once_o to_o this_o 1._o it_o be_v a_o proportion_v the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o grace_n and_o holiness_n in_o that_o soul_n yea_o the_o soul_n by_o this_o make_v the_o eternal_a unchangeable_a love_n of_o god_n to_o be_v alterable_a various_a and_o changeable_a according_a to_o the_o alteration_n and_o variation_n of_o man_n heart_n 2._o it_o be_v a_o vail_n and_o eclipse_v at_o least_o if_o not_o a_o nullify_n the_o freedom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o poor_a loveless_a despicable_a soul_n it_o be_v a_o make_v the_o lord_n love_v to_o depend_v upon_o the_o grace_n and_o holiness_n in_o soul_n and_o to_o be_v convey_v into_o soul_n upon_o that_o ground_n 3._o it_o make_v the_o soul_n nullify_v undervalue_v and_o wretched_o disparage_v all_o the_o precious_a promise_n in_o god_n bless_a book_n the_o soul_n make_v those_o unchangeable_a word_n of_o god_n insufficient_a to_o support_v and_o uphold_v a_o poor_a sink_n trouble_a lade_a soul_n and_o to_o satisfy_v it_o concern_v god_n will_v to_o receive_v it_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 4._o it_o be_v a_o depart_n from_o the_o precious_a spring_n of_o consolation_n dig_v by_o the_o omnipotent_a god_n for_o thirsty_a soul_n and_o a_o choose_v a_o poor_a empty_a dry_a brook_n ii_o when_o a_o soul_n in_o make_v a_o just_a parallel_n between_o himself_o and_o other_o make_v every_o defect_n that_o he_o behold_v in_o the_o proportion_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n and_o duty_n to_o the_o grace_n and_o duty_n of_o other_o christian_n to_o be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n
degree_n of_o grace_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o concord_n and_o agreement_n in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v attain_v it_o be_v for_o the_o better_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o christian_n have_v particular_a different_a grace_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 12.25_o 26._o second_o it_o it_o necessary_a to_o preserve_v the_o beauty_n and_o comeliness_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o whole_a body_n shall_v be_v so_o compact_v together_o that_o one_o member_n shall_v not_o receive_v all_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o other_o member_n three_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o full_a manifestation_n of_o the_o absolute_a freedom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o manifestation_n of_o all_o his_o grace_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o only_o have_v the_o glory_n of_o his_o free_a love_n in_o dispense_n grace_n to_o who_o he_o please_v but_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o free_a grace_n in_o dispense_n it_o in_o what_o manner_n and_o degree_n he_o please_v 2._o from_o the_o necessity_n of_o different_a degree_n of_o grace_n arise_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o dispensation_n of_o various_a gift_n ii_o the_o second_o distemper_n upon_o which_o this_o principle_n do_v arise_v be_v this_o that_o the_o soul_n do_v conceive_v there_o must_v be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n go_v before_o the_o soul_n attain_v unto_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o thence_o the_o soul_n seek_v into_o the_o life_n and_o heart_n of_o other_o christian_n and_o measure_n himself_o by_o those_o think_v upon_o a_o sight_n of_o a_o conformity_n in_o himself_o to_o they_o in_o their_o grace_n and_o duty_n he_o may_v then_o proceed_v to_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o way_n of_o assurance_n and_o then_o have_v some_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o hence_o so_o long_o as_o the_o soul_n conceive_v a_o defect_n in_o himself_o in_o those_o grace_n he_o behold_v to_o be_v in_o other_o christian_n he_o sit_v down_o discourage_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n that_o this_o also_o be_v a_o vile_a principle_n of_o darkness_n must_v be_v also_o make_v appear_v yet_o first_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o i_o must_v premise_v two_o thing_n i._o that_o the_o very_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o way_n of_o full_a assurance_n of_o the_o lord_n accept_v the_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n be_v a_o most_o superlative_a degree_n of_o grace_n ii_o that_o every_o soul_n that_o attain_v unto_o that_o assurance_n of_o faith_n to_o receive_v with_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n the_o lord_n good_a will_n concern_v his_o own_o soul_n to_o accept_v he_o to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v attain_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n also_o there_o be_v the_o special_a working_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n of_o holiness_n wherever_o there_o be_v this_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n to_o make_v it_o clear_a 1._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o knowledge_n ignorance_n of_o god_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o all_o vice_n the_o very_a womb_n wherein_o unbelief_n be_v conceive_v withal_o its_o brat_n withal_o its_o scruple_n and_o objection_n whatever_o and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o that_o ignorance_n of_o god_n be_v heal_v so_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o the_o soul_n attain_v towards_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o spiritual_a life_n beget_v in_o the_o soul_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o contentment_n in_o god_n and_o christ_n 4._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o love_n to_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n communicate_v to_o he_o love_n beget_v love_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o a_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n so_o be_v the_o answerable_a degree_n of_o the_o working_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n in_o christ_n again_o 5._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o raisedness_n of_o spirit_n above_o all_o thing_n below_o i_o give_v but_o a_o taste_n of_o the_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n which_o of_o necessity_n must_v be_v in_o soul_n where_o faith_n of_o assurance_n be_v attain_v but_o now_o to_o speak_v more_o direct_o to_o the_o principle_n itself_o notwithstanding_o this_o yet_o the_o principle_n itself_o be_v a_o dark_a principle_n i._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o a_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n go_v before_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o faith_n to_o prepare_v the_o soul_n for_o assurance_n only_o in_o this_o sense_n that_o the_o habit_n of_o grace_n prepare_v the_o soul_n for_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n so_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n be_v receive_v before_o there_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o a_o soul_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v prepare_v for_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n ii_o there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o any_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n to_o give_v the_o soul_n any_o better_a ground_n to_o act_v faith_n in_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n and_o confidence_n the_o only_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o lord_n word_n wherein_o he_o reveal_v that_o his_o bless_a will_n now_o the_o lord_n word_n speak_v as_o plain_o and_o reveal_v his_o will_n as_o clear_o to_o the_o soul_n not_o have_v the_o least_o portion_n of_o grace_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o it_o do_v to_o those_o that_o have_v the_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n iii_o there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o any_o portion_n of_o grace_n to_o make_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n of_o assurance_n to_o be_v the_o soul_n duty_n even_o when_o a_o soul_n be_v a_o rebel_n when_o he_o be_v a_o enemy_n the_o lord_n do_v as_o strict_o command_v he_o from_o heaven_n to_o give_v credit_n to_o his_o bless_a word_n reveal_v his_o good_a will_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n if_o he_o will_v be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n as_o he_o do_v command_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v it_o after_o the_o communication_n of_o all_o grace_n iv_o those_o very_a portion_n of_o grace_n great_a or_o small_a that_o be_v attain_v to_o when_o the_o soul_n have_v assurance_n unto_o faith_n they_o be_v all_o attain_v through_o the_o soul_n believe_v with_o that_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n faith_n be_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n of_o sanctification_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o grace_n the_o six_o and_o last_o dark_a distemper_n be_v distemper_n dark_a distemper_n the_o soul_n unconstancy_n this_o unconstancy_n be_v of_o two_o kind_n the_o one_o in_o the_o thought_n and_o imagination_n the_o second_o be_v the_o unconstancy_n of_o the_o soul_n determination_n and_o conclusion_n natural_o we_o be_v unstable_a as_o water_n seldom_o stay_v a_o moment_n in_o the_o same_o place_n for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o this_o distemper_n there_o must_v be_v divers_a thing_n open_v i._o we_o must_v know_v it_o be_v not_o a_o strict_a close_a unmovable_a adherence_n to_o their_o determination_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v once_o draw_v up_o in_o a_o soul_n that_o these_o command_n require_v from_o any_o soul_n that_o may_v be_v as_o bad_a a_o distemper_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n therefore_o observe_v there_o be_v three_o case_n in_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v be_v too_o much_o settle_v and_o adhere_v too_o fast_o to_o his_o own_o conclusion_n 1._o when_o the_o soul_n stick_v fast_o to_o any_o conclusion_n without_o spiritual_a divine_a light_n compel_v and_o constrain_a the_o soul_n to_o it_o 2._o when_o a_o soul_n be_v so_o take_v with_o any_o determination_n that_o he_o have_v draw_v up_o in_o his_o own_o spirit_n concern_v truth_n that_o his_o own_o spirit_n will_v not_o suffer_v he_o to_o take_v a_o right_a view_n of_o any_o thing_n that_o the_o scripture_n seem_v to_o propound_v to_o the_o contrary_n 3._o when_o a_o soul_n be_v so_o affect_v with_o any_o determination_n draw_v up_o in_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o he_o have_v a_o prejudicial_a opinion_n against_o whatever_o seem_v to_o contradict_v that_o his_o own_o determination_n ii_o you_o must_v know_v there_o be_v case_n wherein_o there_o must_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v alteration_n and_o change_n in_o a_o soul_n own_o determination_n concern_v truth_n and_o concern_v the_o state_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o those_o case_n be_v especial_o two_o 1._o where_o there_o be_v clear_a evidence_n concern_v the_o object_n convey_v into_o a_o soul_n 2._o when_o there_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o which_o we_o common_o call_v a_o clear_a
second_o it_o evidence_v the_o sutableness_n of_o the_o satisfaction_n and_o that_o in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_n of_o the_o thing_n suffer_v by_o christ_n to_o give_v satisfaction_n those_o thing_n every_o way_n suitable_a to_o what_o justice_n can_v require_v from_o the_o soul_n itself_o in_o regard_n of_o his_o sin_n two_o thing_n sin_n declare_v the_o soul_n have_v merit_v to_o suffer_v for_o ever_o first_o the_o death_n of_o the_o body_n wherein_o sin_n be_v act_v and_o commit_v second_o the_o death_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o in_o the_o separation_n of_o it_o from_o god_n which_o be_v the_o chief_a actor_n in_o the_o transgression_n of_o the_o law_n now_o the_o spirit_n evidence_n the_o death_n of_o christ_n a_o suitable_a satisfaction_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o thing_n suffer_v by_o christ_n first_o in_o regard_n the_o humane_a body_n die_v that_o stand_v in_o the_o stead_n of_o those_o that_o have_v be_v the_o transgressor_n of_o the_o law_n he_o take_v upon_o he_o flesh_n and_o so_o die_v for_o sin_n in_o the_o flesh_n in_o the_o same_o nature_n in_o the_o same_o kind_n of_o body_n that_o sin_n be_v act_v in_o second_o in_o that_o there_o be_v a_o separation_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o christ_n from_o enjoyment_n of_o communion_n with_o his_o father_n as_o appear_v matth._n 27.46_o my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o that_o be_v why_o have_v thou_o deprive_v i_o of_o communion_n with_o thou_o and_o though_o indeed_o the_o separation_n be_v not_o eternal_a yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o person_n bear_v the_o separation_n it_o be_v equivalent_a to_o a_o eternal_a separation_n one_o moment_n of_o separation_n be_v as_o great_a a_o evil_n inflict_v upon_o such_o a_o person_n as_o a_o eternal_a separation_n can_v have_v be_v to_o have_v be_v inflict_v upon_o a_o poor_a finite_a creature_n 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o sutableness_n of_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o father_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o sin_n themselves_o lay_v to_o the_o charge_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o suffering_n what_o justice_n can_v require_v shall_v be_v suffer_v by_o the_o transgressor_n and_o that_o both_o in_o the_o kind_n of_o sin_n and_o also_o in_o the_o degree_n of_o sin_n yea_o and_o also_o in_o the_o circumstance_n of_o sin_n too_o that_o which_o be_v equivalent_a to_o all_o kind_n of_o sin_n be_v impute_v to_o christ_n to_o be_v suffer_v that_o shall_v have_v be_v suffer_v by_o transgressor_n apostasy_n from_o god_n be_v impute_v to_o he_o by_o be_v impute_v to_o be_v a_o devil_n enmity_n to_o god_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n be_v impute_v to_o he_o in_o that_o he_o be_v impute_v the_o prince_n of_o devil_n all_o kind_n of_o fight_v against_o god_n be_v impute_v to_o he_o in_o that_o he_o be_v impute_v a_o blasphemer_n and_o a_o striver_n to_o sit_v down_o in_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o a_o impostor_n and_o deceiver_n so_o that_o no_o kind_n of_o sin_n that_o conscience_n can_v object_v against_o the_o soul_n but_o the_o spirit_n can_v and_o do_v evidence_n at_o such_o a_o time_n be_v impute_v to_o christ_n and_o christ_n suffer_v for_o such_o a_o sin_n that_o be_v equivalent_a to_o that_o kind_n of_o sin_n ii_o in_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o lord_n christ_n to_o have_v full_o and_o everlasting_o take_v away_o all_o the_o wickedness_n of_o what_o kind_n soever_o from_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o it_o evidence_v the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n from_o the_o dead_a this_o be_v clear_a rom._n 8.34_o it_o be_v christ_n that_o die_v yea_o rather_o that_o be_v rise_v again_o in_o this_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v three_o thing_n to_o the_o soul_n 1._o it_o evidence_v the_o father_n acknowledgement_n of_o his_o own_o satisfaction_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o all_o the_o person_n that_o shall_v ever_o embrace_v christ_n and_o believe_v on_o he_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n christ_n have_v once_o take_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o surety_n to_o bear_v the_o transgression_n of_o all_o that_o shall_v believe_v on_o he_o have_v enter_v into_o bond_n to_o pay_v all_o their_o debt_n and_o suffer_v himself_o to_o be_v arrest_v by_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n yea_o to_o be_v carry_v to_o the_o prison_n of_o the_o grave_a by_o the_o hand_n of_o justice_n for_o those_o transgression_n he_o must_v never_o have_v come_v out_o till_o he_o have_v pay_v the_o uttermost_a farthing_n and_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o in_o 1_o cor._n 15.14_o the_o apostle_n tell_v they_o that_o their_o faith_n be_v vain_a and_o their_o preach_v of_o christ_n be_v vain_a unless_o christ_n be_v rise_v whence_o the_o apostle_n note_v that_o though_o the_o death_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o matter_n of_o sattisfaction_n to_o the_o justice_n of_o the_o father_n for_o the_o justify_n of_o all_o the_o person_n that_o christ_n sustain_v yet_o there_o be_v no_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n that_o god_n the_o father_n be_v satisfy_v for_o those_o transgression_n by_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n unless_o christ_n be_v rise_v 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n christ_n own_o triumphant_a victory_n over_o sin_n and_o all_o the_o concomitant_n and_o consequent_n of_o sin_n now_o therein_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v christ_n removal_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o sin_n from_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v hereafter_o embrace_v he_o in_o regard_n he_o have_v now_o captivate_v sin_n he_o have_v get_v sin_n under_o his_o own_o power_n to_o trample_v under_o his_o foot_n and_o to_o do_v with_o as_o he_o please_v he_o have_v take_v sin_n and_o tie_v it_o to_o his_o chariot_n wheel_n as_o the_o word_n import_v 3._o the_o spirit_n do_v evidence_n in_o and_o from_o the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n from_o the_o dead_a as_o he_o be_v a_o surety_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v account_v his_o acquittance_n give_v to_o jesus_n christ_n for_o sin_n that_o be_v charge_v upon_o he_o to_o be_v a_o acquittance_n of_o all_o those_o that_o ever_o shall_v embrace_v christ_n through_o believe_v and_o also_o that_o christ_n in_o receive_v that_o acquittance_n from_o god_n do_v receive_v it_o in_o the_o room_n and_o in_o the_o stead_n of_o all_o that_o ever_o shall_v embrace_v he_o and_o thence_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o scripture_n attribute_n unto_o every_o believer_n a_o participation_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n yea_o that_o it_o attribute_n to_o they_o a_o co-resurrection_n with_o christ_n col._n 2.13_o you_o be_v dead_a in_o your_o sin_n have_v he_o quicken_v together_o with_o he_o that_o be_v have_v make_v you_o partaker_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o resurrection_n and_o raise_v you_o with_o himself_o and_o vers_fw-la 14._o blot_v out_o the_o hand_n write_v of_o ordinance_n that_o be_v against_o we_o which_o be_v contrary_a to_o we_o and_o take_v it_o out_o of_o the_o way_n nail_v it_o to_o his_o cross_n that_o be_v justify_v our_o soul_n from_o all_o that_o ever_o sin_n conscience_n the_o law_n or_o the_o devil_n can_v bring_v against_o we_o iii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o ascension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n as_o he_o be_v a_o surety_n and_o as_o he_o do_v represent_v sinner_n that_o shall_v receive_v he_o to_o be_v their_o mediator_n thus_o rom._n 8.34_o paul_n through_o the_o spirit_n manifestation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n have_v such_o a_o full_a evidence_n as_o he_o can_v make_v a_o challenge_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o sin_n and_o hell_n and_o the_o devil_n to_o bring_v all_o their_o accusation_n and_o see_v if_o they_o can_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o his_o charge_n who_o shall_v condemn_v say_v he_o jesus_n christ_n be_v go_v to_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n now_o from_o christ_n ascension_n to_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o father_n the_o spirit_n be_v wont_v to_o evidence_n these_o four_o thing_n 1._o that_o the_o lord_n christ_n as_o a_o surety_n for_o all_o sinner_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o as_o their_o mediator_n have_v now_o receive_v a_o acknowledgement_n in_o heaven_n that_o he_o have_v full_o take_v away_o all_o the_o sin_n of_o all_o that_o ever_o so_o receive_v he_o the_o spirit_n bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n what_o welcome_a as_o it_o be_v jesus_n christ_n have_v into_o heaven_n it_o show_v the_o soul_n from_o such_o a_o place_n as_o that_o psal_n 110.1_o the_o father_n say_v to_o christ_n when_o he_o come_v into_o heaven_n well_o do_v thou_o obedient_a son_n sit_v thou_o down_o at_o my_o right_a hand_n there_o be_v two_o thing_n observable_a in_o that_o first_o in_o that_o welcome_n give_v by_o the_o father_n there_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o the_o father_n acknowledge_v the_o work_n
without_o itself_o in_o any_o of_o the_o motion_n of_o his_o love_n whatever_o so_o that_o thence_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v a_o deny_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o godhead_n to_o conceive_v that_o god_n shall_v look_v out_o of_o himself_o for_o any_o argument_n any_o motive_n any_o incentive_a that_o shall_v either_o excite_v or_o incline_v the_o divine_a will_n to_o any_o motion_n of_o love_n whatever_o to_o ward_n any_o creature_n ii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o absolute_a will_n of_o the_o father_n alone_o to_o be_v the_o first_o principle_n and_o also_o the_o only_a cause_n of_o admission_n of_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o both_o the_o purpose_n of_o god_n to_o accept_v soul_n into_o union_n and_o also_o the_o execution_n of_o that_o his_o purpose_n do_v depend_v only_o upon_o the_o lord_n bare_a will_n and_o good_a pleasure_n according_a to_o that_o in_o eph._n 1.5_o 6_o compare_v with_o ver_fw-la 9_o iii_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v the_o lord_n christ_n willingness_n to_o accept_v of_o soul_n into_o union_n to_o be_v only_o do_v through_o the_o commission_n that_o he_o receive_v from_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o his_o father_n will_v concern_v such_o soul_n according_a to_o that_o in_o john_n 6.37_o 38._o when_o he_o say_v he_o will_v reject_v no_o one_o soul_n in_o no_o wise_a under_o no_o consideration_n whatever_o he_o give_v this_o reason_n for_o i_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n not_o to_o do_v my_o own_o will_n but_o the_o will_n of_o he_o that_o send_v i_o there_o be_v a_o five_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cause_v to_o shine_v forth_o from_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o be_v light_n five_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n the_o admirable_a and_o incomprehensible_a fullness_n of_o all_o perfection_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o be_v comprehend_v in_o this_o tender_a of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n to_o every_o particular_a soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o notwithstanding_o those_o former_a beam_n of_o divine_a light_n there_o be_v a_o two_o fold_v necessity_n for_o the_o spirit_n to_o cause_v this_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n also_o to_o sparkle_v before_o the_o soul_n eye_n i._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o sufficiency_n to_o produce_v act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o soul_n by_o way_n of_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n and_o assurance_n and_o in_o this_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n cast_v this_o beam_n of_o light_n also_o before_o the_o soul_n eye_n to_o open_v the_o incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o love_n that_o the_o soul_n soul_n can_v imagine_v he_o shall_v have_v the_o least_o necessity_n of_o ii_o to_o excite_v and_o quicken_v the_o affection_n to_o more_o enlarge_v operation_n or_o working_n though_o there_o have_v be_v a_o former_a apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o love_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o union_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o answerable_a work_n of_o affection_n towards_o the_o union_n unless_o there_o be_v that_o very_o actual_a vision_n now_o when_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o affection_n towards_o the_o union_n tender_v be_v but_o small_a than_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o its_o act_n of_o faith_n by_o way_n of_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o in_o a_o small_a degree_n therefore_o it_o be_v in_o this_o respect_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_v the_o absolute_a complete_a incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o love_n that_o be_v include_v in_o the_o tender_a of_o union_n and_o this_o the_o spirit_n do_v in_o divers_a particular_n 1._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n tender_v of_o pass_v over_o himself_o and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o himself_o whole_o unto_o soul_n through_o this_o union_n with_o christ_n for_o the_o evidence_n this_o the_o spirit_n only_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o the_o promise_n according_a to_o the_o lord_n own_o abstract_n and_o compendium_n that_o he_o have_v make_v of_o they_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o god_n have_v say_v he_o will_v be_v the_o soul_n god_n in_o christ_n here_o be_v two_o particular_n include_v under_o this_o one_o depth_n first_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v that_o the_o high_a interest_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o make_v a_o soul_n capable_a of_o in_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o god_n himself_o be_v offer_v to_o be_v pass_v over_o to_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o union_n second_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v that_o the_o lord_n offer_v in_o this_o tender_a of_o union_n to_o interest_n the_o soul_n in_o himself_o with_o such_o a_o interest_n as_o shall_v be_v most_o suitable_a for_o the_o full_a communication_n of_o himself_o to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v as_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a for_o god_n to_o love_v the_o soul_n as_o it_o shall_v be_v proper_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n to_o be_v love_v himself_o 2._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v lay_v the_o high_a obligation_n upon_o himself_o to_o be_v the_o soul_n own_o in_o all_o that_o he_o be_v in_o his_o pass_n over_o himself_o unto_o the_o soul_n through_o that_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o the_o spirit_n manifest_v by_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o lord_n asseveration_n and_o protestation_n and_o high_a oath_n that_o he_o add_v unto_o that_o his_o word_n that_o declare_v he_o to_o pass_v over_o himself_o unto_o soul_n through_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n hebr._n 6.13_o 3._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n establish_v the_o transaction_n of_o himself_o and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o himself_o over_o to_o the_o soul_n through_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n upon_o his_o own_o will_v alone_o on_o purpose_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o all_o love_n contain_v in_o he_o three_o particular_a end_n the_o spirit_n may_v bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o first_o that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o possibility_n of_o a_o alteration_n of_o that_o perfect_a love_n of_o he_o to_o a_o soul_n through_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o any_o power_n or_o possibility_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o holy_a ghost_n affirm_v rom._n 11.9_o the_o lord_n election_n of_o love_n to_o be_v mere_o establish_v upon_o his_o own_o will_n for_o that_o end_n that_o the_o election_n may_v stand_v be_v not_o of_o work_n but_o of_o grace_n that_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v certain_a be_v unchangeable_a so_o as_o the_o soul_n wickedness_n and_o wretchedness_n rise_v to_o what_o height_n soever_o yet_o it_o may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o alteration_n in_o that_o perfect_a love_n so_o rom._n 9.16_o second_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o fullness_n of_o love_n and_o to_o make_v a_o constant_a immutable_a ground_n for_o his_o people_n faith_n to_o rest_v upon_o he_o for_o the_o perfection_n of_o of_o his_o love_n towards_o they_o this_o the_o spirit_n may_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o that_o in_o hebr._n 6.17_o 18._o the_o lord_n be_v say_v to_o add_v the_o confirmation_n of_o his_o oath_n that_o there_o may_v be_v two_o immutable_a ground_n in_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o god_n to_o lie_n three_o that_o his_o people_n may_v have_v a_o sufficient_a satisfactory_a consolation_n from_o that_o fullness_n of_o his_o love_n in_o all_o necessity_n upon_o all_o occasion_n and_o at_o all_o time_n that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n 4._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v the_o lord_n undertake_v to_o effect_v in_o and_o for_o the_o soul_n the_o whole_a transaction_n of_o himself_o over_o unto_o the_o soul_n through_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o his_o own_o love_n alone_o eph._n 2.5_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o salvation_n be_v attribute_v to_o nothing_o but_o love_n the_o spirit_n reveal_v this_o two_o way_n first_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v engage_v himself_o by_o promise_n to_o effect_v the_o transaction_n of_o himself_o over_o unto_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o almighty_a power_n of_o his_o love_n isaiah_n 41.10_o 11._o second_o the_o spirit_n remember_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o necessity_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v impose_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n to_o effect_v it_o john_n 10.16_o 5._o the_o spirit_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v undertake_v the_o suitable_a temper_v and_o dispose_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o all_o suitable_a walk_n in_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v tender_v this_o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v evidence_n from_o that_o in_o jer._n 31.33_o where_o the_o lord_n reveal_v it_o to_o be_v the_o very_a covenant_n this_o shall_v be_v my_o covenant_n or_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o love_n that_o i_o will_v promise_v this_o be_v part_n of_o god_n love_n to_o soul_n
exod._n 3.15_o this_o be_v my_o name_n for_o ever_o and_o this_o be_v my_o memorial_n to_o all_o generation_n that_o be_v to_o say_v this_o be_v the_o distinction_n whereby_o i_o will_v be_v know_v to_o all_o generation_n that_o i_o be_o the_o god_n that_o send_v out_o a_o redeemer_n to_o lose_v sinner_n which_o implicit_o and_o virtual_o include_v thus_o much_o as_o if_o god_n shall_v say_v my_o own_o honour_n the_o high_a title_n of_o my_o glory_n shall_v fail_v if_o i_o fail_v of_o embrace_v every_o loveless_a sinner_n through_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o will_v accept_v i_o and_o thence_o you_o shall_v observe_v when_o the_o lord_n make_v the_o clear_a revelation_n of_o himself_o to_o moses_n exod._n 34.6_o 7._o the_o very_a name_n whereby_o he_o call_v himself_o be_v that_o which_o include_v all_o that_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n reveal_v to_o sinner_n the_o lord_n pass_v by_o he_o and_o proclaim_v the_o lord_n merciful_a and_o gracious_a long-suffering_a slow_a to_o anger_n and_o abundant_a in_o goodness_n and_o truth_n keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n here_o be_v the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o lord_n own_v to_o be_v the_o name_n of_o his_o honour_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v to_o be_v his_o title_n whereby_o he_o will_v be_v distinguish_v from_o other_o and_o whereby_o he_o will_v be_v know_v unto_o soul_n two_o thing_n must_v be_v open_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o sufficient_o to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o soul_n first_o it_o must_v be_v open_v that_o the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v virtual_o contain_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n second_o that_o particular_a soul_n may_v have_v security_n unto_o themselves_o from_o that_o name_n of_o god_n and_o may_v safe_o through_o believe_v look_n upon_o the_o honour_n of_o his_o name_n as_o engage_v to_o they_o to_o fulfil_v what_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v first_o it_o must_v be_v open_v that_o the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o whatever_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v be_v include_v in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v open_v it_o from_o that_o of_o exod._n 34.6_o 7._o which_o god_n own_v as_o his_o name_n there_o be_v eight_o title_n that_o the_o lord_n assume_v to_o himself_o that_o make_v up_o in_o the_o lord_n account_v his_o name_n wherein_o he_o will_v be_v know_v unto_o soul_n i._o the_o first_o title_n of_o his_o honour_n that_o concur_v to_o the_o make_v up_o of_o his_o name_n be_v merciful_a the_o lord_n merciful_a which_o include_v two_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n that_o there_o be_v precious_a disposition_n unto_o infinite_a compassion_n natural_o dwell_v in_o god_n the_o word_n be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o in_o jer._n 31.21_o which_o may_v be_v render_v bowel_n 2._o it_o include_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v ready_a to_o act_v those_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o soul_n drown_v in_o the_o depth_n of_o the_o most_o extreme_a misery_n misery_n and_o mercy_n be_v relative_n and_o according_a to_o the_o depth_n of_o misery_n so_o be_v the_o height_n of_o the_o work_n of_o mercy_n now_o under_o that_o very_a one_o title_n be_v comprehend_v the_o sum_n and_o substance_n of_o all_o that_o the_o gospel_n discover_v there_o be_v but_o one_o voice_n that_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n speak_v in_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v full_a of_o bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n towards_o every_o loveless_a sinner_n that_o will_v accept_v his_o compassion_n tender_v ii_o the_o second_o title_n of_o god_n be_v gracious_a this_o imply_v two_o thing_n 1._o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o loveless_a sinner_n into_o favour_n 2._o the_o acceptance_n of_o miserable_a one_o into_o favour_n mere_o out_o of_o the_o freedom_n of_o the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o favour_n from_o motive_n out_o of_o his_o own_o bosom_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o desert_n therefore_o the_o whole_a voice_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v by_o grace_n you_o be_v save_v iii_o the_o three_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o honourable_a name_n of_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n long_o suffer_v or_o as_o it_o may_v be_v render_v he_o be_v slow_a to_o anger_n here_o be_v two_o thing_n include_v 1._o it_o imply_v a_o long_a time_n of_o forbearance_n in_o god_n to_o execute_v judgement_n upon_o sinner_n according_a to_o their_o own_o demerit_n 2_o pet._n 3.9_o 2._o it_o imply_v that_o that_o forbearance_n to_o execute_v judgement_n upon_o sinner_n according_a to_o their_o sin_n be_v on_o purpose_n that_o sinner_n may_v be_v accept_v into_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o prevent_v the_o execution_n of_o judgement_n isa_n 30.18_o iv_o the_o four_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n be_v the_o lord_n abundant_a in_o goodness_n or_o excel_v in_o kindness_n that_o imply_v three_o thing_n 1._o the_o complete_a fullness_n of_o all_o goodness_n that_o can_v be_v necessary_a for_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v treasure_v up_o by_o god_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o christ_n for_o soul_n 2._o it_o imply_v a_o transcendency_n of_o all_o supply_n for_o empty_a soul_n to_o be_v in_o himself_o through_o christ_n it_o imply_v a_o superlative_a fullness_n a_o fullness_n that_o be_v more_o than_o sufficient_a a_o fullness_n that_o infinite_o exceed_v what_o ever_o a_o soul_n can_v want_v 3._o it_o imply_v the_o readiness_n and_o facility_n of_o god_n to_o be_v dispense_n that_o goodness_n unto_o soul_n v._o the_o five_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n name_n be_v that_o he_o be_v abundant_a in_o truth_n truth_n do_v not_o here_o imply_v justice_n and_o righteousness_n but_o it_o imply_v faithfulness_n in_o god_n to_o be_v true_a according_a to_o the_o revelation_n of_o himself_o so_o that_o truth_n imply_v the_o certainty_n the_o infallibility_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v unto_o soul_n whatever_o he_o promise_v to_o be_v treasure_v up_o in_o himself_o for_o they_o vi_o there_o be_v a_o six_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o lord_n honour_n that_o be_v his_o reserve_n or_o his_o keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o this_o imply_v two_o thing_n 1._o a_o large_a comprehensiveness_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n to_o be_v comprehend_v multitude_n of_o miserable_a undo_v sinner_n keep_v mercy_n for_o thousand_o it_o be_v a_o synechdochical_a speech_n a_o finite_a number_n be_v put_v for_o a_o infinite_a vii_o there_o be_v a_o seven_o title_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o the_o lord_n honour_n and_o that_o be_v forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n here_o be_v three_o several_a expression_n that_o in_o a_o large_a sense_n point_n at_o the_o same_o thing_n every_o iniquity_n be_v a_o transgression_n and_o every_o transgression_n be_v a_o sin_n yet_o certain_o something_o be_v intend_v by_o the_o bless_a god_n in_o proclaim_v his_o name_n thus_o some_o have_v conceive_v by_o iniquity_n to_o be_v mean_v sin_n against_o god_n himself_o by_o transgression_n to_o be_v mean_v sin_n against_o our_o neighbour_n and_o by_o sin_n to_o be_v mean_v sin_n against_o our_o own_o soul_n other_o have_v make_v they_o to_o be_v sin_n of_o malice_n and_o sin_n of_o infirmity_n and_o sin_n of_o ignorance_n other_o conceive_v by_o iniquity_n because_o the_o word_n come_v from_o a_o root_n in_o the_o original_a that_o signify_v crookedness_n to_o be_v mean_v the_o corruption_n of_o nature_n and_o by_o transgression_n to_o be_v mean_v the_o breach_n of_o the_o law_n through_o infirmity_n and_o by_o sin_n to_o be_v mean_v stubbornness_n against_o god_n however_o thus_o much_o we_o may_v affirm_v to_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o under_o these_o three_o be_v comprehend_v all_o sin_n whatever_o of_o what_o nature_n and_o degree_n soever_o then_o this_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n imply_v thus_o much_o a_o impossibility_n for_o any_o degree_n of_o sin_n whatever_o to_o hinder_v the_o lord_n from_o show_v mercy_n and_o be_v gracious_a in_o that_o way_n of_o fullness_n of_o love_n that_o he_o reveal_v himself_o to_o be_v incline_v to_o and_o to_o be_v his_o own_o nature_n viii_o the_o eight_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n include_v a_o gospel-discovery_n too_o and_o that_o be_v in_o those_o word_n that_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n clear_v the_o guilty_a visit_v the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n and_o upon_o the_o child_n child_n unto_o the_o three_o and_o to_o the_o four_o generation_n this_o seem_v indeed_o at_o first_o view_n to_o have_v little_a of_o gospel_n in_o it_o but_o i_o dare_v not_o consent_v here_o to_o the_o paraphrase_n the_o translator_n have_v give_v upon_o the_o word_n but_o the_o word_n be_v to_o
be_v render_v thus_o forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o in_o purify_n he_o will_v not_o purify_v or_o in_o absolve_v will_v not_o absolve_v not_o mention_v either_o wicked_a one_o or_o guilty_a one_o or_o any_o person_n whatever_o for_o indeed_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o contradiction_n shall_v the_o word_n run_v thus_o the_o lord_n forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n clear_v the_o guilty_a therefore_o i_o shall_v hold_v to_o the_o word_n as_o they_o may_v be_v most_o near_o render_v that_o be_v forgive_a sin_n and_o cleanse_v from_o sin_n he_o will_v not_o cleanse_v visit_v the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n and_o then_o if_o you_o observe_v this_o title_n of_o the_o lord_n honour_n be_v only_o thus_o much_o that_o he_o be_v the_o lord_n forgive_a iniquity_n transgression_n and_o sin_n and_o upon_o who_o he_o will_v visit_v the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o father_n upon_o the_o child_n include_v thus_o much_o that_o the_o lord_n do_v and_o will_v exercise_v his_o mercy_n his_o grace_n his_o long-suffering_a and_o his_o abundant_a goodness_n unto_o soul_n only_o upon_o the_o motion_n of_o his_o own_o will_n upon_o no_o other_o ground_n but_o because_o he_o will_v and_o to_o no_o other_o person_n upon_o no_o other_o respect_n but_o only_o to_o those_o who_o himself_o free_o will_n and_o then_o that_o include_v the_o last_o beam_n of_o the_o gospel-light_n after_o all_o the_o other_o former_o discover_v which_o indeed_o be_v the_o very_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n itself_o and_o that_o be_v that_o all_o those_o gospel-dispensation_n be_v only_o to_o those_o person_n who_o the_o lord_n will_v and_o upon_o no_o other_o ground_n but_o the_o lord_n will_v though_o they_o be_v so_o tender_v to_o every_o loveless_a soul_n in_o general_a that_o will_v embrace_v he_o so_o that_o thus_o now_o you_o see_v the_o first_o thing_n clear_v that_o all_o gospel-discovery_n be_v at_o 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be_v assure_v that_o there_o be_v a_o impossibility_n of_o the_o lord_n change_v that_o his_o ever_o bless_a name_n the_o word_n be_v go_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o god_n that_o that_o be_v his_o name_n for_o ever_o and_o that_o be_v his_o memorial_n to_o all_o generation_n thence_o the_o soul_n may_v assure_v itself_o that_o though_o heaven_n and_o earth_n pass_v away_o and_o melt_v like_o wax_n yet_o not_o one_o title_n of_o what_o the_o gospel_n discover_v can_v possible_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n see_v it_o be_v impossible_a that_o the_o high_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n can_v change_v 2._o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v conclude_v that_o thete_n be_v a_o necessity_n for_o the_o bless_a god_n to_o deny_v himself_o and_o to_o trample_v under_o his_o foot_n his_o dear_a glory_n if_o the_o least_o title_n of_o whatever_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v shall_v fail_v see_v all_o be_v include_v in_o his_o name_n for_o ever_o second_o the_o soul_n may_v behold_v through_o 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text_n such_o be_v some_o of_o you_o another_o pattern_n the_o lord_n leave_v 2_o chron._n 33.11_o 12_o 13._o of_o manasseh_n who_o heap_v up_o wickedness_n upon_o wickedness_n yet_o the_o lord_n make_v he_o a_o pattern_n of_o gospel-love_n and_o mercy_n another_z you_o have_v in_o paul_n in_o 1_o tim._n 1.15_o one_o drink_v up_o the_o blood_n of_o saint_n like_o water_n one_o blaspheme_v jesus_n christ_n offer_v all_o kind_n of_o injury_n and_o indignity_n to_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n do_v show_v forth_o all_o long-suffering_a that_o be_v all_o kind_n of_o love_n manifest_v in_o patience_n and_o forbearance_n and_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o through_o christ_n and_o this_o he_o do_v on_o purpose_n that_o he_o may_v leave_v it_o as_o a_o experiment_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n to_o they_o who_o shall_v hereafter_o believe_v on_o he_o to_o life_n everlasting_a so_o act._n 2.30_o those_o that_o have_v wash_v their_o 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of_o the_o message_n come_v from_o god_n the_o second_o pattern_n be_v in_o unbelieving_a thomas_n john_n 20.24_o 25_o 26._o that_o will_v not_o believe_v the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n except_o he_o shall_v see_v in_o his_o hand_n the_o print_n of_o the_o nail_n and_o thrust_v his_o hand_n into_o his_o side_n yet_o gospel_n love_n and_o mercy_n be_v discover_v to_o he_o vers_n 27._o under_o this_o case_n come_v in_o these_o two_o case_n of_o soul_n wherein_o they_o be_v much_o perplex_v 1._o in_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n not_o feel_v the_o lord_n by_o his_o almighty_a power_n draw_v their_o heart_n to_o believe_v say_v the_o poor_a perplex_a soul_n sure_o the_o lord_n draw_v all_o that_o he_o intend_v shall_v come_v to_o christ_n through_o believe_v but_o alas_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o do_v not_o see_v that_o god_n have_v draw_v my_o heart_n therefore_o sure_o god_n have_v not_o choose_v i_o to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n grace_n and_o love_n now_o the_o spirit_n may_v 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of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n reveal_v in_o the_o gospel_n from_o the_o bare_a word_n of_o god_n alone_o but_o if_o they_o can_v see_v any_o fruit_n of_o that_o love_n and_o mercy_n in_o their_o bosom_n than_o they_o think_v they_o shall_v believe_v you_o see_v the_o spirit_n have_v here_o in_o this_o case_n also_o evidence_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v afford_v a_o real_a experiment_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n to_o a_o soul_n in_o the_o case_n of_o unbelieving_a thomas_n who_o be_v not_o only_o incline_v to_o see_v ground_n of_o believe_v in_o a_o visible_a way_n from_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o eye_n and_o the_o feeling_n of_o his_o hand_n but_o he_o be_v resolve_v to_o have_v it_o that_o way_n or_o no_o way_n unless_o i_o see_v thus_o and_o thus_o i_o will_v not_o believe_v iii_o a_o three_o case_n wherein_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v precedent_n be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o loathsome_a horrible_a dreadful_a and_o most_o hateful_a imagination_n work_v in_o the_o heart_n against_o 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lest_o he_o shall_v dash_v his_o foot_n against_o a_o stone_n there_o be_v a_o three_o sort_n of_o thought_n propound_v to_o his_o imagination_n worse_o than_o these_o and_o that_o be_v that_o he_o shall_v worship_v the_o devil_n what_o more_o hateful_a and_o horrible_a thought_n can_v be_v inject_v into_o any_o bosom_n than_o this_o to_o worship_v the_o devil_n himself_o now_o under_o this_o general_n be_v comprehend_v these_o two_o particular_a case_n 1._o there_o be_v comprehend_v the_o case_n of_o all_o blasphemous_a thought_n that_o be_v wont_a to_o perplex_v distress_a soul_n that_o if_o a_o soul_n shall_v say_v within_o himself_o sure_a never_o any_o object_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v ever_o have_v such_o hellish_a thought_n as_o be_v present_v to_o my_o mind_n such_o thought_n as_o my_o heart_n tremble_v to_o name_n the_o spirit_n may_v then_o bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n this_o precious_a pattern_n of_o christ_n the_o devil_n inject_v into_o his_o pure_a mind_n thought_n that_o be_v as_o dreadful_o derogatory_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o lord_n high_a majesty_n thought_n that_o have_v as_o much_o of_o the_o poison_n of_o hell_n in_o they_o as_o ever_o think_v that_o be_v inject_v into_o thy_o curse_a heart_n 2._o under_o this_o come_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o temptation_n concern_v self_n murder_n or_o self_n destruction_n in_o this_o case_n the_o spirit_n may_v bring_v to_o remembrance_n the_o lord_n christ_n himself_o as_o the_o soul_n precedent_n or_o pattern_n the_o lord_n let_v he_o be_v perplex_v with_o temptation_n of_o the_o same_o kind_n iv_o a_o four_o case_n be_v the_o want_n of_o all_o sensible_a manifestation_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n either_o in_o quicken_a and_o revive_v or_o in_o comfort_v in_o this_o case_n you_o may_v take_v the_o dear_o belove_v one_o of_o god_n david_n psal_n 22._o wherein_o indeed_o he_o speak_v typical_o relate_v to_o christ_n especial_o yet_o also_o speak_v but_o the_o thought_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n at_o that_o time_n too_o say_v he_o v._o 1._o my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o why_o be_v thou_o so_o far_o from_o help_v i_o and_o from_o the_o word_n of_o my_o roar_n and_o v._o 14._o so_o psal_n 77.3_o 4._o i_o remember_v god_n and_o be_v trouble_v i_o complain_v and_o my_o spirit_n be_v overwhelm_v etc._n etc._n another_o pattern_n the_o lord_n give_v we_o of_o the_o holy_a man_n job_n he_o cry_v out_o chap._n 6.4_o the_o arrow_n of_o the_o almighty_a be_v within_o i_o the_o poison_n whereof_o drink_v up_o my_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n so_o chap._n 13.24_o 25_o 26._o wherefore_o hide_v thou_o thy_o face_n and_o hold_v i_o for_o thy_o enemy_n etc._n etc._n now_o under_o this_o come_v in_o two_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o soul_n 1._o the_o case_n of_o the_o defect_n of_o all_o the_o working_n of_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n into_o the_o soul_n 2._o under_o this_o come_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n want_v the_o manifest_v light_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o reveal_v the_o gospel_n in_o its_o beauty_n and_o glory_n to_o its_o soul_n so_o that_o if_o any_o soul_n want_v this_o manifest_v light_n of_o the_o spirit_n shall_v begin_v to_o cast_v off_o all_o confidence_n and_o to_o waver_v and_o stagger_v and_o doubt_v lest_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o be_v willing_a to_o accept_v it_o to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n love_n then_o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v sometime_o bring_v to_o remembrance_n these_o eminent_a pattern_n of_o those_o who_o be_v in_o the_o very_a same_o temper_n under_o the_o same_o want_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v real_o the_o object_n of_o that_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o gospel_n in_o christ_n reveal_v v._o a_o five_o case_n be_v the_o case_n of_o fruitlesness_n inefficacy_n of_o the_o breathe_n of_o the_o soul_n after_o god_n in_o prayer_n in_o this_o case_n also_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v eminent_a pattern_n those_o two_o forename_a one_o both_o job_n and_o david_n you_o shall_v find_v to_o have_v be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n job_n 23.8_o 9_o behold_v i_o go_v forward_o but_o he_o be_v not_o there_o and_o backward_o but_o i_o can_v perceive_v he_o on_o the_o left_a hand_n where_o he_o do_v work_v but_o i_o can_v behold_v he_o etc._n etc._n his_o meaning_n be_v he_o use_v all_o kind_n of_o mean_n the_o utmost_a diligence_n in_o seek_v after_o god_n but_o he_o will_v not_o be_v find_v so_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o david_n psal_n 22.2_o o_o my_o god_n i_o cry_v in_o the_o day_n time_n but_o thou_o hear_v not_o and_o in_o the_o night_n season_n i_o be_o not_o silent_a so_o that_o here_o god_n show_v soul_n a_o experiment_n of_o some_o who_o be_v in_o the_o same_o case_n and_o yet_o object_n of_o his_o love_n and_o mercy_n vi_o a_o six_o case_n be_v the_o inability_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o pour_v out_o request_v that_o in_o isa_n 63.17_o will_v show_v the_o lord_n to_o have_v leave_v his_o whole_a church_n as_o a_o pattern_n in_o that_o case_n why_o have_v thou_o make_v we_o to_o err_v from_o thy_o way_n and_o harden_v our_o heart_n from_o thy_o fear_n these_o soul_n complain_v of_o the_o lord_n suffer_v such_o senslesness_n and_o blockishness_n of_o spirit_n to_o be_v upon_o they_o as_o make_v they_o unsuitable_a for_o every_o duty_n of_o the_o lord_n worship_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o these_o be_v object_n of_o mercy_n and_o love_n vii_o a_o seven_o case_n be_v the_o behold_v all_o argument_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v imagine_v in_o a_o soul_n against_o those_o promise_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o gospel_n tender_v in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n have_v give_v that_o precious_a pattern_n of_o abraham_n who_o he_o choose_v to_o be_v the_o pattern_n of_o all_o believer_n rom._n 4.18_o 19_o he_o against_o hope_n believe_v in_o hope_n that_o be_v against_o all_o ground_n and_o reason_n and_o argument_n of_o hope_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v though_o he_o see_v all_o possibility_n against_o that_o promise_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v he_o concern_v the_o messiah_n to_o come_v through_o his_o loin_n to_o be_v his_o lawful_a seed_n by_o sarah_n yet_o notwithstanding_o he_o believe_v though_o he_o see_v his_o own_o body_n dead_a and_o the_o deadness_n of_o sarahs_n womb_n yet_o it_o be_v say_v v._o 20._o he_o stagger_v not_o at_o the_o promise_n through_o unbelief_n his_o spirit_n do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o waver_v under_o this_o general_n may_v be_v comprehend_v these_o three_o particular_a case_n of_o the_o soul_n 1._o the_o case_n of_o the_o soul_n think_v himself_o to_o be_v the_o most_o unlikely_a under_o heaven_n to_o be_v a_o object_n of_o gospel_n mercy_n and_o love_n the_o soul_n consider_v
the_o property_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n to_o communicate_v all_o its_o perfection_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v be_v communicable_a and_o also_o see_v every_o soul_n embrace_v gospel-discovery_n be_v the_o proper_a object_n to_o which_o that_o perfection_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n be_v to_o be_v communicate_v thence_o the_o spirit_n may_v cause_v the_o soul_n to_o conclude_v that_o the_o lord_n stand_v engage_v by_o the_o inseparable_a property_n of_o his_o divine_a nature_n to_o make_v every_o such_o soul_n accept_v gospel_n discovery_n to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a mercy_n and_o compassion_n now_o from_o hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v give_v the_o soul_n full_a security_n of_o the_o fulfil_n the_o gospel_n discovery_n into_o his_o bosom_n whatever_o objection_n it_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o wisdom_n of_o hell_n and_o the_o corrupt_a heart_n to_o make_v against_o it_o all_o the_o objection_n that_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v imagine_v by_o the_o extract_n and_o quintessence_n of_o all_o wisdom_n that_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n say_v no_o more_o but_o this_o concern_v the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v a_o miserable_a lose_v undo_v soul_n if_o the_o soul_n object_n the_o superlative_a height_n of_o his_o own_o wickedness_n if_o iâ—_n object_v the_o long_a continuance_n in_o its_o wickedness_n if_o it_o object_v the_o wretched_a contempt_n of_o mercy_n and_o love_v tender_v if_o it_o object_v the_o want_n of_o holiness_n the_o want_n of_o every_o good_a disposition_n imaginable_a if_o it_o object_v the_o most_o curse_a crookedness_n and_o enmity_n of_o heart_n against_o the_o bless_a tender_n of_o love_n and_o begin_v to_o draw_v these_o conclusion_n from_o these_o premise_n therefore_o sure_o gospel_n discovery_n can_v be_v fulfil_v into_o my_o bosom_n if_o i_o shall_v rely_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o fulfil_n of_o they_o yet_o the_o soul_n in_o all_o these_o objection_n say_v but_o this_o one_o thing_n i_o be_o a_o poor_a miserable_a despicable_a wretch_n in_o the_o depth_n of_o misery_n now_o than_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o in_o its_o accept_n those_o gospel_n discovery_n it_o shall_v be_v the_o proper_a object_n of_o all_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n so_o that_o god_n shall_v be_v engage_v by_o the_o inseparable_a property_n of_o his_o own_o nature_n to_o let_v out_o his_o transcendent_a bowel_n of_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n in_o their_o freedom_n of_o work_v towards_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o fill_v it_o with_o the_o fullness_n of_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n and_o thence_o the_o spirit_n may_v convince_v the_o soul_n that_o either_o he_o must_v conclude_v that_o his_o finite_a misery_n exceed_v the_o infiniteness_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n or_o else_o the_o soul_n must_v conclude_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o objection_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v yet_o in_o his_o accept_n the_o gospel_n discovery_n they_o shall_v infallible_o be_v fulfil_v to_o the_o utmost_a into_o his_o bosom_n 3._o hereby_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o all_o his_o sweet_a contentment_n his_o most_o please_a delight_n that_o he_o natural_o take_v in_o behold_v the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o perfection_n towards_o poor_a imperfect_a creature_n to_o supply_v every_o want_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v to_o be_v in_o any_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v the_o property_n of_o the_o lord_n nature_n to_o be_v dispense_n of_o his_o fullness_n to_o empty_a one_o so_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n infinite_a delight_n to_o behold_v those_o stream_n of_o his_o fullness_n run_v down_o in_o a_o suitable_a way_n into_o their_o soul_n now_o the_o spirit_n may_v manifest_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o that_o his_o own_o contentment_n that_o he_o natural_o take_v in_o behold_v his_o own_o perfection_n communicate_v unto_o other_o to_o communicate_v all_o suitable_a succour_n relief_n help_n and_o comfort_n to_o every_o such_o soul_n as_o shall_v embrace_v those_o gospel_n discovery_n 5._o a_o five_o engagement_n the_o lord_n have_v lay_v upon_o himself_o to_o fulfil_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v that_o every_o particular_a soul_n that_o shall_v and_o will_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o peculiar_a choose_a object_n of_o the_o lord_n high_o most_o unspeakable_a everlasting_a delight_n and_o contentment_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o word_n reveal_v that_o the_o lord_n take_v such_o infinite_a pleasure_n in_o his_o own_o as_o in_o psal_n 147.11_o the_o lord_n take_v pleasure_n in_o those_o that_o fear_v he_o in_o those_o that_o hope_v in_o his_o mercy_n i_o pray_v observe_v it_o in_o this_o be_v comprehend_v every_o soul_n that_o do_v in_o the_o low_a degree_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n this_o manifest_v that_o the_o soul_n that_o do_v in_o the_o most_o tremble_a timorous_a way_n but_o reach_v out_o a_o feeble_a hand_n of_o hope_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o that_o rich_a mercy_n tender_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o it_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o lord_n pleasure_n and_o contentment_n even_o those_o soul_n that_o be_v far_o from_o draw_v any_o conclusion_n only_o they_o cast_v out_o the_o anchor_n of_o hope_n and_o venture_v their_o lose_a perish_v soul_n upon_o the_o rock_n of_o mercy_n that_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 1._o the_o spirit_n may_v reveal_v they_o to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a most_o superlative_a everlasting_a delight_n and_o contentment_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o high_a delight_n that_o god_n take_v in_o any_o object_n out_o of_o himself_o the_o same_o superlative_a delight_n that_o the_o father_n take_v in_o jesus_n christ_n as_o mediator_n he_o take_v in_o the_o soul_n unite_v to_o he_o 2._o every_o such_o soul_n be_v destinate_a to_o be_v the_o object_n wherein_o the_o lord_n will_v as_o it_o be_v concentre_v together_o in_o one_o all_o the_o bless_a motion_n of_o his_o own_o delight_n and_o contentment_n jesus_n christ_n mystical_o consider_v that_o be_v consider_v with_o his_o body_n of_o holy_a angel_n and_o soul_n of_o those_o that_o be_v lose_v sinner_n unite_v to_o he_o be_v the_o very_a centre_n wherein_o all_o the_o line_n of_o the_o lord_n delight_n and_o contentment_n meet_v perfect_o together_o in_o one_o now_o every_o soul_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v take_v into_o the_o perfect_a unity_n of_o the_o mystical_a body_n become_v through_o its_o union_n into_o the_o mystical_a body_n as_o it_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o centre_n wherein_o all_o the_o line_n of_o the_o delight_n of_o god_n meet_v together_o there_o be_v four_o kind_n of_o the_o lord_n delight_n that_o every_o such_o soul_n that_o embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o 1._o every_o such_o soul_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o all_o the_o high_a everlasting_a delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v in_o the_o let_v out_o his_o love_n in_o its_o perfection_n towards_o any_o thing_n without_o himself_o the_o lord_n most_o natural_a peculiar_a delight_n be_v in_o love_n because_o his_o essence_n and_o be_v be_v love_n now_o every_o such_o soul_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n of_o the_o high_a perfection_n of_o love_n consider_v as_o one_o of_o that_o mystical_a body_n hence_o it_o be_v say_v zeph._n 3.17_o he_o will_v rejoice_v over_o thou_o with_o joy_n he_o will_v rest_v in_o his_o love_n that_o be_v to_o say_v he_o will_v take_v satisfaction_n and_o contentment_n to_o his_o own_o soul_n in_o love_v of_o thou_o for_o indeed_o delight_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o love_n in_o rest_n as_o desire_n be_v love_n in_o motion_n 2._o every_o such_o soul_n so_o consider_v be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o the_o most_o superlative_a delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v in_o the_o actual_a communication_n of_o his_o goodness_n it_o be_v so_o natural_a for_o god_n who_o be_v goodness_n itself_o to_o be_v communicate_v his_o goodness_n to_o other_o that_o his_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o pleasure_n and_o contentment_n in_o the_o let_v forth_o of_o his_o goodness_n 3._o every_o such_o soul_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o the_o delight_n and_o contentment_n that_o the_o lord_n take_v in_o himself_o in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o transcendent_a glory_n of_o his_o own_o supereminent_a excellency_n now_o there_o be_v no_o other_o object_n than_o that_o mystical_a body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o any_o of_o the_o delight_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v from_o the_o contemplation_n of_o his_o own_o superlative_a glory_n see_v his_o own_o excellency_n that_o he_o contemplate_v upon_o be_v no_o other_o than_o he_o communicate_v to_o that_o mystical_a body_n so_o that_o all_o the_o delight_n pleasure_n and_o contentment_n that_o the_o lord_n can_v receive_v from_o the_o precious_a view_n of_o the_o brightness_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n
it_o constrain_v it_o to_o receive_v that_o clear_a infallible_a demonstration_n that_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n give_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v his_o stubborn_a rebellious_a unworthy_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n indeed_o by_o the_o spirit_n illumination_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v a_o most_o unquestionable_a demonstration_n give_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v any_o one_o particular_a soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o if_o he_o will_v accept_v he_o but_o in_o the_o work_n of_o conviction_n be_v most_o proper_o the_o mighty_a overpower_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n constrain_a it_o to_o receive_v the_o demonstration_n conviction_n be_v proper_o the_o silence_v all_o cavil_n doubt_n of_o contradiction_n of_o the_o mind_n against_o any_o truth_n propound_v and_o a_o make_n of_o it_o undeniable_a to_o it_o that_o it_o dare_v not_o make_v any_o objection_n or_o raise_v any_o one_o cavil_v more_o to_o what_o the_o lord_n propound_v to_o his_o particular_a loveless_n soul_n but_o to_o sit_v down_o satisfy_v and_o confess_v the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o lord_n propound_v to_o he_o to_o confess_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n indeed_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v one_o with_o himself_o in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o enjoy_v everlasting_a communion_n with_o he_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o spirit_n thus_o convince_a the_o soul_n beside_o its_o illumination_n and_o its_o irradiration_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o it_o and_o that_o in_o two_o respect_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o mind_n or_o understanding_n and_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o conscience_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o mind_n the_o power_n of_o corruption_n have_v so_o captivate_v the_o mind_n and_o understanding_n that_o both_o the_o illumination_n of_o it_o and_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o mind_n will_v be_v ineffectual_a shall_v not_o the_o spirit_n strike_v in_o to_o make_v up_o the_o soul_n conviction_n there_o be_v a_o four_o fold_v disposition_n in_o the_o mind_n that_o do_v cause_v a_o kind_n of_o necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n beside_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o mind_n i._o there_o be_v a_o wretched_a unteachableness_n that_o natural_o possess_v all_o our_o mind_n there_o be_v not_o only_a darkness_n possess_v the_o mind_n but_o a_o opposition_n against_o the_o receive_n light_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o disposition_n of_o our_o mind_n natural_o we_o be_v unapt_a to_o receive_v any_o thing_n the_o spirit_n reveal_v shall_v there_o not_o be_v a_o further_a power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o heart_n ii_o there_o be_v a_o most_o superlative_a incredulity_n that_o remain_v in_o our_o mind_n the_o god_n of_o the_o world_n have_v blind_v the_o mind_n 2_o cor._n 4.4_o not_o by_o a_o privative_a extinction_n of_o light_n infuse_v that_o be_v beyond_o the_o devil_n power_n but_o by_o a_o positive_a darkness_n a_o positive_a ignorance_n by_o persuade_v the_o mind_n of_o all_o to_o believe_v other_o principle_n such_o as_o contradict_v those_o bless_a principle_n of_o divine_a truth_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o incredulity_n that_o possess_v our_o mind_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n that_o the_o spirit_n shall_v have_v a_o further_a work_n upon_o the_o soul_n than_o bare_a illumination_n and_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o indisposition_n in_o our_o mind_n to_o receive_v any_o thing_n that_o they_o can_v comprehend_v now_o all_o the_o glorious_a discovery_n in_o that_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v incomprehensible_a thence_o the_o mind_n will_v receive_v none_o of_o those_o precious_a discovery_n though_o the_o spirit_n do_v irradiate_a the_o gospel_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o it_o if_o another_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n shall_v not_o come_v in_o upon_o the_o heart_n to_o convince_v the_o soul_n of_o it_o iv_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a enmity_n in_o the_o mind_n against_o those_o divine_a truth_n rom._n 8.7_o the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n now_o this_o curse_a enmity_n dwell_v in_o the_o unregenerate_a part_n make_v its_o constant_a opposition_n with_o all_o its_o power_n and_o strength_n against_o all_o that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v and_o so_o all_o the_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o the_o mind_n will_v be_v ineffectual_a shall_v not_o another_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n come_v in_o to_o conquer_v the_o curse_a enmity_n and_o to_o constrain_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v those_o demonstration_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v the_o loveless_n soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o as_o a_o thing_n undeniable_a second_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o it_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o conscience_n also_o the_o conscience_n be_v a_o register_n may_v and_o power_n place_v by_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o understanding_n be_v what_o conscience_n be_v to_o record_v all_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o whole_a man_n and_o to_o discover_v the_o equity_n or_o iniquity_n of_o they_o and_o to_o determine_v of_o they_o either_o with_o the_o soul_n or_o against_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o conscience_n be_v also_o so_o corrupt_v that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n beside_o this_o illumination_n and_o irradiation_n for_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v titus_n 1.15_o now_o there_o be_v two_o that_o be_v the_o most_o eminent_a work_n of_o conscience_n i._o to_o discover_v the_o equity_n or_o iniquity_n of_o any_o thing_n propound_v to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v do_v or_o of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v do_v by_o the_o soul_n now_o in_o this_o the_o conscience_n be_v dreadful_o corrupt_a here_o the_o conscience_n call_v iniquity_n equity_n and_o equity_n iniquity_n call_v good_a evil_n and_o evil_a good_a natural_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n now_o thence_o there_o be_v necessity_n of_o this_o conviction_n of_o the_o spirit_n also_o in_o regard_n the_o conscience_n will_v never_o determine_v that_o it_o be_v good_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o receive_v those_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o it_o unless_o the_o spirit_n overpower_v the_o corrupt_a conscience_n and_o convince_v it_o of_o the_o equity_n of_o receive_v it_o ii_o the_o second_o act_n of_o conscience_n be_v to_o determine_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v already_o do_v by_o the_o soul_n its_o work_n be_v to_o accuse_v and_o excuse_v the_o soul_n both_o in_o its_o do_v of_o thing_n and_o after_o the_o do_v of_o they_o now_o conscience_n be_v so_o dreadful_o corrupt_v natural_o that_o like_o a_o corrupt_a judge_n or_o a_o bribe_a judge_n it_o accuse_v when_o it_o shall_v excuse_v and_o excuse_v when_o it_o shall_v accuse_v it_o free_v the_o guilty_a and_o condemn_v the_o innocent_a now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o corruption_n of_o the_o conscience_n though_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v illuminate_v the_o soul_n in_o part_n for_o its_o never_o high_a and_o then_o present_a the_o gospel_n to_o the_o enlighten_v understanding_n and_o give_v clear_a manifestation_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o christ_n yet_o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n will_v never_o determine_v with_o the_o soul_n to_o excuse_v the_o soul_n in_o receive_v those_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o it_o but_o will_v and_o will_v perpetual_o accuse_v the_o soul_n as_o a_o presumptuous_a wretch_n unless_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v exercise_v this_o convince_v power_n upon_o the_o conscience_n even_o after_o the_o work_n of_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o conviction_n draw_v clear_a unquestionable_a demonstration_n for_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o gospel_n to_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v a_o infallible_a certainty_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v that_o particular_a despicable_a forlorn_a sinner_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o and_o it_o consist_v also_o in_o the_o command_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o determination_n whereby_o it_o silence_v all_o cavilling_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o put_v a_o holy_a constraint_n upon_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n to_o receive_v that_o determination_n as_o true_a and_o undeniable_a so_o that_o the_o spirit_n make_v he_o to_o confess_v with_o his_o own_o mouth_n that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n that_o even_o this_o my_o forlorn_a loathsome_a despicable_a unlovely_a soul_n shall_v be_v one_o with_o himself_o for_o ever_o this_o be_v the_o spirit_n conviction_n which_o be_v the_o three_o work_n of_o the_o
agent_n a_o outward_a agent_n upon_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o believe_v and_o then_o take_v up_o its_o habitation_n in_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o soul_n believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n but_o reason_n itself_o be_v sufficient_a confutation_n of_o those_o imagination_n reason_n will_v tell_v we_o of_o a_o impossibility_n of_o a_o man_n mere_o unregenerate_a to_o put_v forth_o a_o act_n mere_o spiritual_a reason_n will_v tell_v we_o a_o habit_n or_o disposition_n must_v go_v before_o there_o be_v a_o act_n a_o tree_n there_o must_v be_v before_o there_o can_v be_v fruit_n and_o then_o also_o the_o spirit_n seal_v of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v declare_v to_o follow_v at_o least_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n the_o soul_n believe_v it_o can_v be_v that_o by_o the_o spirit_n seal_v speak_v of_o in_o these_o scripture_n shall_v be_v mean_v the_o infusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n grace_n into_o the_o soul_n it_o must_v be_v something_o beside_o the_o grace_n infuse_v ii_o all_o kind_n of_o holy_a habit_n or_o disposition_n that_o be_v infuse_v into_o any_o one_o believe_v soul_n be_v infuse_v in_o order_n of_o nature_n before_o the_o soul_n believe_v now_o if_o the_o spirit_n seal_v be_v only_o the_o infusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n grace_n than_o every_o believe_a soul_n shall_v have_v the_o same_o seal_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereas_o experience_n bring_v testimony_n enough_o to_o the_o contrary_n iii_o the_o spirit_n seal_v mention_v in_o those_o former_a scripture_n be_v attribute_v in_o a_o particular_a manner_n to_o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n it_o do_v not_o say_v only_o the_o spirit_n which_o may_v have_v be_v mean_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n itself_o even_o by_o a_o personal_a act_n the_o spirit_n atte_v to_o we_o that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v also_o in_o eph._n 1.13_o 14._o in_o who_o also_o after_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n it_o be_v translate_v which_o but_o it_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o the_o original_a to_o say_v who_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n the_o relative_a be_v in_o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n not_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o it_o stand_v as_o a_o undoubted_a truth_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v add_v unto_o believe_a soul_n for_o their_o abundant_a consolation_n even_o a_o witness_n from_o his_o own_o bless_a spirit_n of_o their_o admittance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o their_o cleave_v to_o he_o beside_o all_o those_o other_o bless_a necessary_a work_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n upon_o their_o soul_n now_o i_o must_v further_o observe_v that_o this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v not_o pertain_v peculiarly_a and_o sole_o unto_o faith_n as_o have_v reference_n unto_o faith_n only_o and_o to_o the_o beget_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n but_o by_o divine_a appointment_n this_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n pertain_v also_o to_o sense_n to_o spiritual_a sense_n or_o spiritual_a knowledge_n and_o do_v beget_v assurance_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_v as_o well_o as_o it_o beget_v assurance_n of_o faith_n yet_o there_o be_v such_o a_o sweet_a mixture_n in_o this_o bless_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o it_o do_v at_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n raise_v the_o soul_n to_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o assurance_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_v and_o indeed_o such_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o it_o never_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n in_o any_o measure_n of_o clearness_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n but_o the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_n at_o the_o same_o time_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v actual_o admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n yet_o because_o we_o be_v speak_v at_o present_a of_o the_o manner_n how_o the_o spirit_n do_v first_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n certain_o and_o infallible_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o so_o assure_v the_o soul_n faith_n of_o union_n we_o must_v first_o speak_v of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n in_o reference_n unto_o faith_n though_o we_o must_v also_o for_o open_v the_o full_a work_n of_o attestation_n open_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o spirit_n attest_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v for_o the_o open_n the_o first_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n in_o reference_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n to_o assure_v faith_n of_o its_o union_n faith_n the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n i_o shall_v open_v to_o you_o two_o thing_n first_o those_o respect_n in_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v appoint_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o be_v add_v to_o all_o the_o former_a work_n as_o a_o redundancy_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n to_o the_o despicable_a soul_n second_o we_o shall_v open_v what_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n be_v for_o the_o first_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o respect_n why_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o work_n of_o attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n after_o he_o have_v persuade_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v thus_o powerful_o with_o confidence_n i._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o multitude_n of_o fear_n that_o remain_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n after_o the_o clear_a evidence_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o most_o full_a persuasion_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n to_o believe_v there_o be_v three_o kind_n of_o fear_n that_o still_o remain_v in_o some_o degree_n both_o in_o the_o seed_n of_o they_o and_o in_o the_o fruit_n of_o they_o though_o none_o of_o they_o remain_v in_o their_o absolute_a dominion_n 1._o there_o be_v both_o the_o seed_n and_o fruit_n of_o slavish_a fear_n though_o through_o the_o mighty_a exciting_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n follow_v the_o spirit_n irradiation_n and_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v raise_v to_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o cleave_v to_o he_o yet_o there_o be_v not_o a_o perfection_n of_o confidence_n and_o it_o be_v only_o perfect_a confidence_n that_o beget_v perfect_a love_n and_o only_o perfect_a love_n that_o cast_v out_o slavish_a fear_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o pure_a natural_a fear_n that_o still_o remain_v the_o matter_n of_o believe_v be_v of_o such_o high_a concernment_n that_o the_o very_a remembrance_n of_o it_o strike_v the_o soul_n with_o some_o natural_a fear_n it_o be_v the_o venture_v the_o precious_a immortal_a soul_n for_o eternity_n and_o unless_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n of_o confidence_n a_o soul_n can_v be_v void_a of_o fear_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o spiritual_a holy_a fear_n that_o remain_v also_o in_o the_o believe_a soul_n after_o the_o strength_n of_o believe_v the_o soul_n vision_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n inflame_v the_o believe_a soul_n heart_n with_o love_n unto_o union_n and_o communion_n and_o proportionable_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o soul_n love_n so_o be_v the_o soul_n fear_v that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o soul_n fear_v the_o loss_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n wherein_o he_o love_v union_n and_o communion_n and_o this_o fear_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o go_v beyond_o its_o bound_n and_o to_o suspect_v the_o loss_n of_o it_o where_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o suspicion_n ii_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o atte_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o soul_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o natural_a distrust_n that_o in_o some_o degree_n remain_v in_o every_o believe_a soul_n though_o raise_v to_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v not_o only_o a_o indisposition_n natural_o in_o the_o soul_n to_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n by_o reason_n of_o its_o inability_n full_o to_o comprehend_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v such_o a_o word_n into_o his_o bosom_n but_o also_o there_o be_v a_o natural_a disposition_n in_o dwell_v in_o every_o soul_n that_o incline_v the_o heart_n strong_o to_o give_v the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n the_o lie_n to_o distrust_v that_o bless_a record_n that_o the_o lord_n bear_v of_o his_o own_o son_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o holy_a jealousy_n that_o possess_v every_o believe_a soul_n lest_o his_o corrupt_a deceitful_a heart_n shall_v delude_v he_o every_o believe_a soul_n be_v so_o conscious_a to_o himself_o of_o a_o multiplicity_n and_o variety_n of_o cozen_v delude_v trick_n that_o his_o corrupt_a heart_n have_v put_v upon_o
he_o from_o time_n to_o time_n as_o it_o dare_v not_o trust_v its_o heart_n when_o it_o deal_v most_o plain_o and_o upright_o now_o from_o this_o holy_a jealousy_n there_o arise_v a_o difficulty_n to_o settle_v and_o establish_v the_o heart_n and_o to_o free_v it_o from_o all_o waver_a in_o its_o conscience_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o full_a satisfaction_n that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o inward_a misgiving_n of_o heart_n in_o its_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o its_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o he_o iv_o there_o be_v a_o natural_a unconstancy_n that_o possess_v every_o such_o believe_a soul_n in_o some_o degree_n ever_o since_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v draw_v from_o that_o first_o bless_a centre_n it_o have_v natural_o be_v unconstant_a in_o all_o its_o resting_n now_o from_o this_o unconstancy_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o heart_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o have_v its_o confidence_n shake_v when_o the_o spirit_n have_v raise_v it_o to_o a_o high_a degree_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o that_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o add_v the_o work_n of_o attestation_n for_o the_o perfect_a establish_n of_o the_o waver_a soul_n v._o there_o be_v all_o the_o concurrent_a rage_n of_o hell_n employ_v against_o every_o soul_n attain_v that_o confidence_n of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o now_o shall_v there_o not_o be_v a_o witness_n from_o heaven_n or_o great_a authority_n in_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n than_o any_o dictate_v of_o the_o counsel_n of_o hell_n the_o believe_a soul_n will_v soon_o call_v in_o question_n the_o precious_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o incline_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o dictate_v of_o hell_n counsel_n therefore_o in_o respect_n to_o this_o lest_o 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spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n now_o we_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o sense_n but_o there_o be_v a_o objection_n will_v be_v cast_v in_o that_o must_v first_o be_v open_v whereby_o the_o depth_n of_o this_o unspeakable_a mystery_n may_v be_v something_o more_o unfolded_a obj._n some_o soul_n may_v say_v if_o the_o spirit_n give_v no_o other_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n than_o this_o that_o his_o particular_a soul_n shall_v be_v certain_o and_o infallible_o accept_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o and_o produce_v no_o other_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o this_o that_o i_o even_o i_o this_o unlovely_a soul_n of_o i_o in_o adhere_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v infallible_o have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o to_o all_o eternity_n then_o say_v the_o soul_n even_o after_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n it_o may_v remain_v doubtful_a of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n still_o see_v by_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n the_o soul_n be_v not_o assure_v of_o his_o own_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n and_o see_v the_o certainty_n that_o the_o spirit_n give_v by_o the_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v its_o whole_a dependence_n upon_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n ans_fw-fr 1._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o grand_a objection_n first_o when_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n and_o he_o be_v assure_v that_o his_o particular_a unlovely_a forlorn_a soul_n shall_v certain_o and_o infallible_o be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o rest_n upon_o christ_n for_o union_n it_o be_v not_o then_o possible_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o solid_a ground_n
for_o that_o believe_a soul_n to_o question_v his_o own_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n unto_o all_o eternity_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n i._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o have_v this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o confidence_n of_o his_o everlasting_a cleave_v unto_o christ_n as_o there_o be_v of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o adhere_v to_o he_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v tender_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v as_o perfect_o and_o as_o clear_o contain_v and_o include_v in_o they_o strength_n to_o enable_v soul_n to_o embrace_v and_o accept_v those_o promise_n as_o they_o do_v contain_v in_o they_o a_o fullness_n and_o alsufficiency_n of_o love_n and_o mercy_n for_o those_o soul_n that_o do_v embrace_v they_o the_o lord_n that_o have_v say_v it_o be_v my_o will_n that_o such_o perish_v sink_v despicable_a soul_n as_o will_v accept_v my_o tender_a shall_v be_v one_o with_o i_o through_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o have_v everlasting_a communion_n with_o i_o have_v also_o say_v will_v allure_v and_o draw_v your_o heart_n to_o embrace_v and_o accept_v according_a to_o my_o will_n this_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o i_o in_o christ_n that_o i_o free_o tender_v you_o according_a to_o jer._n 31_o 32_o 33._o this_o shall_v be_v my_o covenant_n i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n that_o be_v to_o say_v i_o will_v infuse_v suitable_a disposition_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o the_o embracer_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o incline_v dispose_v and_o enable_v they_o to_o fulfil_v all_o my_o reveal_v will_n in_o some_o measure_n and_o degree_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n have_v as_o sure_a a_o word_n reveal_v to_o it_o to_o depend_v upon_o from_o whence_o may_v arise_v a_o 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as_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o give_v he_o power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n john_n 1.12_o now_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o will_v to_o close_v with_o christ_n in_o union_n and_o communion_n that_o be_v tender_v to_o it_o be_v the_o very_o receive_v of_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o in_o that_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v the_o soul_n credence_n or_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v confident_a of_o the_o lord_n accept_n of_o it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o the_o soul_n cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o he_o it_o be_v only_o because_o of_o such_o a_o word_n of_o promise_n from_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n to_o which_o the_o soul_n give_v credit_n or_o which_o the_o soul_n believe_v 3._o in_o this_o act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v a_o resignation_n of_o the_o soul_n whole_o unto_o christ_n such_o as_o that_o which_o be_v speak_v of_o in_o 2_o tim._n 1.12_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v believe_v and_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o keep_v that_o which_o i_o have_v commit_v unto_o he_o that_o be_v to_o say_v i_o know_v who_o word_n it_o be_v that_o i_o give_v credit_n to_o and_o that_o i_o be_v so_o confident_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o i_o lean_v my_o soul_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o word_n for_o its_o everlasting_a happiness_n so_o that_o then_o in_o this_o act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v that_o mutual_a interchangable_n covenant_v that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n require_v from_o soul_n in_o accept_n the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v 4._o in_o this_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v include_v a_o full_a dependence_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o christ_n a_o hang_v the_o soul_n upon_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o word_n so_o that_o indeed_o all_o the_o act_n that_o the_o gospel_n require_v from_o soul_n be_v include_v in_o this_o one_o act_n of_o confidence_n that_o be_v produce_v by_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n now_o the_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n be_v also_o the_o act_n of_o its_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o the_o soul_n cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n be_v gradual_o as_o strong_a as_o the_o act_n of_o its_o confidence_n of_o accept_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o cleave_v to_o he_o thence_o it_o appear_v that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o solid_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n question_v his_o own_o adherence_n unto_o the_o lord_n jesus_n when_o the_o spirit_n give_v this_o testimony_n foremention_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n and_o produce_v 〈◊〉_d confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o adhere_v to_o he_o in_o this_o very_a thing_n lie_v the_o whole_a mystery_n of_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n the_o very_a confidence_n that_o the_o spirit_n beget_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o accept_n it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o cleave_v to_o he_o the_o very_a act_n of_o confidence_n be_v the_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n cleave_v to_o he_o answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v further_o that_o whenever_o the_o spirit_n by_o its_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n do_v beget_v that_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v accept_v it_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o than_o the_o soul_n can_v question_v his_o own_o adhere_n unto_o christ_n any_o more_o than_o he_o question_n the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o faith_n be_v or_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o it_o do_v equal_o beget_v a_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o everlasting_a cleave_v unto_o christ_n to_o the_o confidence_n that_o it_o do_v beget_v of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o himself_o in_o the_o soul_n adhere_v to_o he_o and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n be_v concern_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o whole_a gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n or_o of_o all_o the_o promise_n the_o spirit_n in_o the_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n clear_v that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o have_v the_o whole_a glorious_a work_n of_o the_o union_n of_o loveless_n sinner_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o have_v its_o sole_a dependence_n upon_o himself_o so_o that_o it_o manifest_v believe_v strength_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n full_o to_o be_v tender_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n as_o well_o as_o union_n with_o christ_n himself_o be_v tender_v now_o than_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n which_o follow_v this_o irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v as_o large_a as_o its_o irradiation_n work_n i_o mean_v the_o spirit_n do_v in_o a_o judicial_a authoritative_a way_n witness_v the_o truth_n of_o all_o those_o gospel_n truth_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n can_v possible_o resist_v that_o determination_n that_o the_o spirit_n give_v into_o its_o bosom_n now_o then_o there_o be_v the_o same_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v enable_v it_o to_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o there_o be_v unto_o its_o faith_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v accept_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o himself_o in_o christ_n every_o soul_n that_o will_v adhere_v to_o he_o thence_o it_o can_v be_v that_o a_o soul_n shall_v more_o question_v his_o adhere_n unto_o christ_n than_o he_o shall_v question_v the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o he_o
the_o readiness_n of_o the_o soul_n natural_o to_o concur_v and_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o corrupt_a conscience_n while_o it_o bear_v witness_v against_o faith_n the_o reason_n be_v evident_a in_o regard_n the_o full_a bent_n of_o the_o spirit_n stand_v to_o judge_v of_o all_o thing_n according_a to_o sense_n and_o reason_n now_o therefore_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o give_v matter_n for_o conscience_n to_o build_v a_o new_a judgement_n upon_o concern_v the_o soul_n everlasting_a estate_n ii_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o its_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n unto_o christ_n may_v every_o way_n counterpoise_v the_o evidence_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v receive_v of_o its_o separation_n from_o christ_n there_o be_v three_o evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o his_o separation_n from_o christ_n and_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n do_v parallel_v the_o soul_n with_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n answerable_a to_o those_o three_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n separation_n from_o christ_n 1._o there_o be_v the_o bless_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n determine_v that_o every_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o adam_n be_v by_o merit_n and_o desert_n everlasting_o separate_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o actual_o the_o first_o moment_n of_o his_o be_v void_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n 2._o there_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n work_v the_o contrary_a opposite_a rebellious_a work_n of_o the_o soul_n against_o christ_n do_v evident_o declare_v that_o there_o be_v no_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o any_o soul_n natural_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o john_n 3.8_o he_o that_o commit_v sin_n that_o be_v with_o full_a purpose_n and_o bent_n of_o spirit_n with_o a_o full_a determination_n of_o his_o judgement_n and_o will_n be_v of_o the_o devil_n 3._o there_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n found_v upon_o these_o contrary_a working_n of_o the_o heart_n unto_o christ_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v separate_v from_o christ_n now_o in_o opposition_n to_o these_o three_o the_o spirit_n give_v testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o even_o such_o a_o particular_a despicable_a lose_a sinner_n shall_v infallible_o in_o his_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n enjoy_v everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o then_o the_o spirit_n add_v this_o testimony_n also_o unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n whereby_o he_o make_v the_o soul_n discern_v even_o from_o the_o move_n and_o work_v of_o his_o heart_n towards_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o he_o and_o from_o thence_o conscience_n can_v but_o bear_v witness_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v actual_o unite_v unto_o christ_n iii_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o make_v a_o super-addition_n of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o sense_n that_o the_o whole_a bless_a word_n of_o god_n may_v sweet_o concur_v together_o in_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o for_o example_n that_o word_n in_o 1_o john_n 4.13_o hereby_o we_o know_v that_o god_n dwell_v in_o we_o and_o we_o in_o he_o that_o be_v that_o we_o have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n because_o he_o have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o spirit_n this_o word_n bear_v not_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o it_o bear_v testimony_n unto_o the_o believe_a soul_n sense_n that_o be_v unite_v when_o the_o soul_n be_v sensible_a that_o the_o spirit_n be_v convey_v from_o god_n into_o its_o bosom_n likewise_o that_o other_o word_n in_o 2_o cor._n 13.5_o examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n prove_v your_o own_o self_n know_v you_o not_o your_o own_o self_n how_o that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v in_o you_o that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o the_o life_n and_o grace_n and_o holiness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v communicate_v to_o you_o that_o jesus_n christ_n act_n and_o work_n in_o you_o and_o through_o you_o know_v you_o not_o this_o except_o you_o be_v reprobate_n now_o this_o word_n bear_v no_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n because_o the_o indwel_a of_o christ_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v not_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n but_o the_o object_n of_o spiritual_a sight_n iv_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o believe_v soul_n may_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o their_o everlasting_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n here_o below_o according_a to_o that_o eph._n 1.13_o you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n until_o the_o redemption_n of_o the_o purchase_a possession_n so_o in_o 2_o cor._n 1.22_o who_o have_v also_o seal_v we_o and_o give_v we_o the_o earnest_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n the_o earnest_n import_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o lord_n give_v the_o soul_n part_n of_o his_o everlasting_a portion_n before_o hand_n two_o that_o the_o lord_n give_v that_o small_a portion_n as_o a_o pledge_n to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o full_a inheritance_n now_o in_o the_o spirit_n testify_v unto_o sense_n the_o soul_n union_n the_o spirit_n do_v clear_o manifest_v the_o very_a entrance_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o its_o participation_n of_o some_o degree_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n already_o in_o regard_n it_o discover_v some_o of_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v actual_o inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n v._o the_o lord_n superadd_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n unto_o its_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v effect_v the_o full_a degree_n of_o conformity_n to_o his_o whole_a will_n in_o the_o soul_n two_o command_n be_v impossible_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o yield_v a_o perfect_a obedience_n to_o without_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n first_o the_o command_n of_o examine_v and_o prove_v the_o soul_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o all_o command_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n that_o enjoin_v the_o soul_n to_o examine_v whether_o this_o or_o that_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v in_o the_o soul_n whether_o love_v to_o god_n or_o love_n to_o the_o brethren_n be_v in_o the_o soul_n or_o no_o there_o can_v be_v no_o effectual_a obedience_n to_o any_o command_n of_o that_o nature_n without_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n only_o to_o discover_v all_o its_o precious_a working_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n second_o the_o command_n of_o perpetual_a rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n can_v not_o be_v effectual_o obey_v without_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n though_o indeed_o believe_v be_v the_o primary_n original_a of_o all_o spiritual_a joy_n yet_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o its_o believe_v be_v a_o necessary_a adjunct_n to_o make_v up_o the_o perfection_n of_o that_o spiritual_a joy_n vi_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o his_o testimony_n to_o faith_n that_o the_o believe_a soul_n may_v be_v fill_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n all_o those_o glorious_a portion_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n whereby_o believer_n be_v describe_v by_o the_o precious_a habit_n of_o grace_n infuse_v into_o their_o heart_n will_v be_v as_o so_o many_o strong_a hold_v for_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n to_o fortify_v in_o against_o the_o believer_n soul_n and_o will_v be_v turn_v by_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n into_o condemn_a sentence_n against_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o the_o precious_a tower_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n will_v be_v always_o batter_v the_o sweet_a stream_n of_o comfort_n will_v always_o meet_v with_o one_o interruption_n or_o other_o in_o their_o flow_a down_o into_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o soul_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n sense_n what_o the_o spirit_n witness_n be_v unto_o sense_n the_o three_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v what_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v it_o be_v a_o precious_a secret_a immediate_a clear_a and_o authoritative_a irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n or_o confidence_n cause_v the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o believe_v to_o shine_v so_o resplendent_o that_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o
act_n of_o believe_v be_v make_v sweet_o conscious_a to_o itself_o that_o it_o do_v right_o believe_v whence_o the_o renew_a conscience_n determine_v bold_o that_o the_o soul_n be_v everlasting_o one_o with_o christ_n that_o i_o may_v the_o more_o perspicuous_o unfold_v this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o shall_v take_v the_o description_n in_o piece_n and_o open_v it_o in_o part_n first_o you_o be_v to_o understand_v in_o the_o description_n the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n the_o act_n be_v a_o act_n of_o irradiation_n a_o clothing_n the_o believer_n soul_n with_o a_o transparent_a glory_n and_o brightness_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v but_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v upon_o the_o act_n of_o believe_v for_o indeed_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o light_n to_o faith_n and_o light_n to_o sense_n that_o be_v the_o original_n of_o all_o the_o comfort_n to_o believe_a soul_n there_o be_v three_o act_n to_o be_v observe_v concern_v this_o irradiate_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n i._o it_o be_v a_o immediate_a irradiation_n nay_o it_o proceed_v from_o that_o bless_a spirit_n so_o immediate_o that_o nothing_o can_v concur_v with_o the_o spirit_n in_o cast_v that_o precious_a light_n upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n 1._o it_o be_v so_o immediate_a as_o none_o of_o the_o precious_a ordinance_n of_o the_o lord_n can_v proper_o be_v say_v to_o effect_v or_o produce_v instrumental_o this_o precious_a manifestation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n to_o itself_o though_o it_o be_v frequent_o yea_o constant_o through_o some_o precious_a ordinance_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v vouchsafe_v thus_o to_o irradiate_a or_o manifest_a to_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o of_o these_o ordinance_n 2._o it_o be_v such_o a_o immediate_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o soul_n that_o demonstration_n either_o from_o the_o antecedent_n or_o consequent_a from_o the_o cause_n or_o from_o the_o effect_n of_o believe_v have_v no_o place_n here_o though_o it_o be_v certain_a there_o may_v be_v infallible_a demonstration_n draw_v by_o a_o believe_a soul_n from_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o believe_v that_o his_o heart_n be_v true_a sincere_a and_o upright_o in_o believe_v yet_o the_o spirit_n do_v so_o immediate_o manifest_v this_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o it_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o do_v not_o send_v the_o soul_n to_o this_o or_o that_o work_n to_o see_v what_o holiness_n or_o strength_n of_o love_n or_o affection_n unto_o christ_n nor_o what_o readiness_n of_o heart_n to_o all_o obedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o consequence_n of_o his_o believe_v but_o the_o bless_a spirit_n do_v immediate_o in_o the_o very_a moment_n of_o the_o soul_n act_v that_o believe_a act_n cast_v a_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o that_o very_a act_n that_o there_o be_v evidence_n enough_o in_o the_o act_n itself_o that_o the_o act_n be_v a_o true_a believe_a act_n according_a to_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v will_n 3._o this_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v such_o a_o immediate_a act_n that_o the_o spirit_n use_v not_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o discursive_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o collect_v from_o the_o description_n of_o true_a believer_n in_o the_o word_n that_o his_o act_n of_o believe_v be_v upright_o and_o sincere_a according_a to_o the_o lord_n will_n it_o be_v certain_a that_o in_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n it_o do_v discover_v clear_o infallible_o and_o unquestionable_o all_o the_o property_n whereby_o believer_n be_v describe_v in_o the_o word_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n also_o yet_o in_o this_o that_o be_v proper_o call_v the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n in_o its_o manifest_v the_o believe_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o do_v not_o make_v the_o discursive_a power_n in_o the_o mind_n the_o instrument_n whereby_o the_o soul_n shall_v compare_v together_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n and_o the_o description_n of_o the_o true_a believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v in_o the_o word_n so_o as_o thence_o to_o collect_v by_o discourse_n that_o the_o believe_a act_n be_v true_a 2_o it_o be_v a_o clear_a act_n full_a of_o perspicuity_n and_o transparency_n the_o spirit_n in_o this_o irradiation_n cast_v as_o clear_v a_o light_n upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n to_o make_v it_o discover_v itself_o as_o the_o rational_a soul_n do_v cast_v a_o natural_a light_n upon_o its_o own_o natural_a act_n so_o that_o it_o be_v proportionable_o evident_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o his_o soul_n do_v believe_v as_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o soul_n live_v or_o that_o the_o soul_n will_v or_o that_o it_o have_v a_o be_v 3_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n be_v authoritative_a irresistible_o powerful_a this_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v upon_o the_o believe_a soul_n act_v have_v such_o a_o command_a power_n include_v in_o it_o that_o it_o even_o command_v the_o beâ—…_n yea_o it_o command_v undeniable_o so_o as_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o shut_v its_o eye_n but_o it_o must_v see_v ii_o the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v observe_v be_v the_o object_n of_o this_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o its_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n the_o object_n name_v in_o the_o description_n be_v the_o soul_n believe_v act_n or_o confidence_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o very_a act_n of_o credit_n that_o the_o soul_n give_v to_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n testify_v that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n that_o that_o particular_a loveless_a soul_n shall_v adhere_v &_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o &_o to_o have_v communion_n with_o he_o and_o likewise_o testify_v that_o in_o the_o soul_n give_v credit_n to_o that_o word_n oâ—_n god_n it_o shall_v everlasting_o enjoy_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n and_o spirit_n now_o there_o be_v 4._o thing_n observable_a under_o this_o to_o prevent_v mistake_n i._o you_o must_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v only_o the_o present_a believe_a act_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o spirit_n manifestation_n or_o irradiation_n the_o spirit_n do_v not_o cast_v those_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o the_o soul_n former_a and_o past_a act_n of_o believe_v though_o they_o have_v be_v multiply_v but_o only_o upon_o the_o present_a momentany_a act_n of_o believe_v that_o the_o spirit_n have_v draw_v forth_o from_o the_o soul_n by_o its_o manifest_v of_o the_o gospel_n and_o reveal_v the_o tender_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o despicable_a sinner_n in_o its_o glory_n and_o brightness_n ii_o you_o be_v to_o observe_v that_o the_o believe_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v only_o the_o principal_a and_o primary_n object_n of_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n or_o manifestation_n so_o that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o no_o other_o act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n at_o present_a but_o only_o upon_o that_o act_n common_o the_o spirit_n do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n so_o clothe_v the_o act_n of_o love_n with_o such_o a_o glorious_a splendour_n and_o brightness_n as_o that_o be_v also_o visible_a in_o the_o same_o moment_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o see_v unquestionable_o his_o arm_n of_o love_n grasp_a the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o well_o as_o he_o see_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o confidence_n in_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v he_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o iii_o you_o must_v observe_v the_o virtue_n of_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_a or_o manifest_v this_o believe_a act_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v to_o discover_v the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o believe_v 1._o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n to_o make_v it_o unquestionable_a and_o undeniable_a to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o wretched_a corrupt_a heart_n do_v not_o delude_v nor_o deceive_v he_o but_o that_o his_o heart_n do_v rely_v with_o some_o degree_n of_o strength_n and_o embrace_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v union_n and_o communion_n to_o the_o soul_n 2._o it_o make_v apparent_a the_o uprightness_n that_o be_v the_o strait_a conformity_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o command_v of_o believe_v iv_o you_o may_v observe_v here_o how_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o soul_n everlasting_a inheritance_n or_o of_o the_o soul_n everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v only_o as_o the_o spirit_n do_v irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v
act_n to_o itself_o that_o it_o become_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o soul_n inheritance_n that_o be_v that_o it_o become_v as_o a_o small_a portion_n give_v by_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o hand_n in_o testimony_n that_o it_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o full_a inheritance_n the_o spirit_n be_v such_o a_o earnest_n in_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n three_o way_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n manifest_v its_o own_o presence_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o its_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n in_o discover_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o do_v upright_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n believe_v it_o do_v discover_v holiness_n to_o be_v infuse_v into_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o consequent_o discover_v itself_o to_o have_v take_v up_o its_o habitation_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n so_o that_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o the_o sight_n that_o the_o spirit_n put_v into_o the_o believe_a act_n make_v it_o visible_a to_o his_o own_o eye_n discern_v the_o presence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o thus_o indeed_o there_o be_v a_o precious_a earnest_n give_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o in_o regard_v the_o communion_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o believe_a act_n appear_v to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v begin_v the_o soul_n discern_v jesus_n christ_n and_o himself_o to_o be_v partaker_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o life_n by_o discern_v infallible_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n 3._o in_o regard_v it_o enter_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o very_a fruition_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o become_v indeed_o a_o first_o fruit_n of_o heaven_n give_v it_o actual_a possession_n of_o that_o high_a blessedness_n that_o sanctify_v soul_n shall_v possess_v in_o heaven_n the_o fruition_n of_o it_o consist_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o the_o certain_a knowledge_n that_o it_o have_v of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n second_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n nothing_o though_o it_o be_v possess_v can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v enjoy_v unless_o the_o party_n possess_v of_o it_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o good_a that_o he_o be_v possess_v of_o iii_o the_o three_o thing_n observable_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o manifestation_n or_o the_o enlighten_v of_o the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v a_o precious_a sweet_a consciousness_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n in_o his_o very_a act_n of_o believe_v that_o he_o do_v right_o believe_v it_o be_v by_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o precious_a gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n understanding_n that_o the_o soul_n discern_v by_o faith_n the_o bosom_n of_o that_o bless_a redeemer_n the_o lord_n jesus_n ready_a to_o receive_v his_o loveless_a perish_v sink_a soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o so_o likewise_o by_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n the_o spirit_n make_v the_o soul_n see_v also_o as_o clear_o that_o it_o do_v as_o it_o be_v creep_v into_o the_o open_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n iv_o the_o four_o and_o last_o thing_n observable_a in_o the_o description_n of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o its_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o inseparable_a adjunct_n or_o concomitant_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n that_o be_v the_o determination_n of_o the_o renew_a conscience_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o he_o be_v everlasting_o one_o with_o christ_n this_o be_v proper_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o sense_n whereas_o the_o light_n of_o every_o grace_n though_o they_o be_v luminous_a body_n and_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n be_v such_o a_o small_a light_n in_o itself_o that_o unless_o there_o be_v a_o addition_n by_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n it_o shine_v not_o apparent_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o therefore_o the_o infallible_a testimony_n of_o the_o believer_n own_o spirit_n or_o of_o his_o renew_a understanding_n or_o conscience_n be_v but_o the_o consummation_n or_o the_o consequent_a of_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n yet_o it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o it_o no_o soon_o have_v the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n but_o the_o renew_a conscience_n answer_v also_o thou_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n the_o witness_n of_o the_o believer_n spirit_n or_o of_o the_o renew_a conscience_n be_v but_o the_o echo_n of_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o lord_n own_o spirit_n according_a to_o rom._n 9.1_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n it_o be_v the_o spirit_n as_o it_o be_v that_o put_v word_n into_o the_o mouth_n of_o renew_a conscience_n it_o do_v but_o answer_v what_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n as_o the_o echo_n answer_v our_o voice_n now_o when_o the_o spirit_n have_v witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n that_o in_o its_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o soul_n shall_v be_v infallible_o admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o in_o that_o witness_n have_v draw_v out_o the_o believe_a disposition_n to_o act_v in_o its_o strength_n and_o then_o cast_v a_o brightness_n and_o splendour_n upon_o the_o believe_a act_n that_o it_o shine_v thus_o apparent_o in_o the_o soul_n eye_n yea_o so_o apparent_o that_o the_o renew_a conscience_n bear_v witness_v that_o the_o soul_n do_v right_o believe_v then_o do_v the_o soul_n say_v with_o those_o in_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o i_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o love_n that_o the_o father_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n bear_v to_o this_o my_o loveless_n soul_n then_o be_v the_o poor_a waver_a soul_n establish_v and_o settle_v as_o upon_o a_o everlasting_a rock_n the_o rock_n of_o age_n then_o 1._o all_o the_o beginning_n of_o hell_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n be_v past_a all_o the_o condemn_a sentence_n of_o conscience_n that_o he_o be_v wont_a to_o hear_v every_o day_n be_v obliterated_a and_o blot_v out_o i_o mean_v so_o long_o as_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n thus_o continue_v all_o the_o frown_n of_o conscience_n be_v go_v 2._o all_o torment_a fear_n be_v banish_v the_o inward_a perplexity_n anguish_n and_o vexation_n that_o perplex_v the_o soul_n through_o the_o fear_n of_o his_o everlasting_a separation_n from_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n all_o cease_v and_o there_o be_v a_o bless_a calm_a possess_v the_o soul_n and_o then_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v like_o a_o weather-beaten_a ship_n into_o the_o sweet_a and_o most_o commodious_a haven_n of_o rest_n 3._o the_o spirit_n of_o glory_n possess_v the_o believe_a soul_n then_o be_v its_o contentment_n in_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n infinite_a unspeakable_a then_o do_v it_o rejoice_v yea_o triumph_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n rom._n 5.3_o thus_o through_o this_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n add_v to_o the_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n the_o soul_n be_v even_o set_v down_o with_o one_o foot_n as_o it_o be_v into_o the_o great_a city_n of_o the_o king_n of_o heaven_n sweet_o expect_v his_o full_a fruition_n of_o that_o transcendent_a glory_n that_o it_o solace_v itself_o in_o the_o sweet_a expectation_n of_o till_o time_n shall_v come_v that_o faith_n and_o expectation_n shall_v cease_v and_o sight_n and_o vision_n shall_v only_o take_v place_n thus_o you_o see_v what_o the_o sealing-witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v unto_o sense_n there_o be_v now_o some_o caution_n that_o of_o necessity_n must_v be_v give_v to_o you_o believe_v soul_n to_o prevent_v any_o sad_a mistake_n about_o this_o great_a mystery_n caution_n 1_o first_o therefore_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o though_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o soul_n infallible_a certainty_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v depend_v upon_o this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o faith_n and_o sense_n yet_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v much_o comfortable_a evidence_n to_o many_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o who_o he_o do_v not_o send_v this_o bless_a spirit_n thus_o to_o avouch_v and_o attest_v to_o their_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v by_o those_o four_o former_a precious_a effect_n upon_o the_o believe_a soul_n establish_v their_o soul_n in_o a_o sweet_a soul-chearing_a soul-reviving_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v the_o whole_a materiality_n
of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n before_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n though_o the_o spirit_n witness_n be_v the_o formality_n as_o i_o may_v call_v it_o its_z that_o which_o give_v the_o be_v of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o to_o sense_n yet_o you_o must_v observe_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o union_n principal_o belong_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n 2._o whatever_o degree_n of_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v any_o such_o believe_a soul_n do_v enjoy_v before_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n the_o witness_n unto_o sense_n be_v exceed_o weak_a imperfect_a and_o unsatisfy_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n now_o the_o soul_n conceive_v that_o he_o do_v feel_v his_o heart_n right_o answer_v that_o precious_a tender_a of_o union_n immediate_o again_o fear_v that_o that_o wretched_a curse_a heart_n of_o he_o do_v but_o delude_v and_o deceive_v he_o 3._o you_o must_v observe_v that_o this_o comfortable_a evidence_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o many_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v frequent_o a_o addition_n unto_o faith_n only_o and_o to_o faith_n principal_o and_o indeed_o this_o be_v very_o common_a that_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v thus_o a_o comfortable_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n when_o his_o bless_a pleasure_n be_v to_o withdraw_v all_o evidence_n of_o union_n from_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o that_o bless_a head_n of_o all_o believe_a soul_n the_o lord_n jesus_n mat._n 27.46_o say_v he_o my_o god_n my_o god_n here_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n that_o vouchsafe_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o the_o bless_a father_n but_o the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n be_v total_o want_v why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o 4._o you_o must_v note_v also_o that_o this_o comfortable_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o many_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o he_o do_v not_o send_v the_o spirit_n to_o attest_v their_o union_n be_v never_o a_o evidence_n to_o the_o sense_n of_o those_o believe_a soul_n without_o a_o evidence_n unto_o their_o faith_n though_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n have_v no_o such_o dependence_n upon_o the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n but_o it_o may_v consist_v without_o it_o yet_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n have_v a_o entire_a and_o full_a dependence_n upon_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o faith_n that_o it_o can_v consist_v without_o it_o the_o very_a matter_n or_o original_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o believe_a act_n the_o soul_n reliance_n upon_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o fulfil_v his_o bless_a word_n offer_v reconciliation_n unto_o every_o unlovely_a sinner_n that_o will_n now_o without_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n of_o that_o soul_n particular_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o believe_a act_n be_v never_o draw_v forth_o in_o the_o believe_a soul_n caution_n 2._o second_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o there_o be_v much_o variety_n in_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n both_o unto_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n it_o do_v witness_n in_o a_o various_a manner_n to_o believe_v soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o there_o be_v much_o variety_n in_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o full_a perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n the_o spirit_n speak_v both_o to_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n only_o by_o a_o secret_a resplendent_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n and_o that_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n have_v various_a degree_n of_o brightness_n wherein_o it_o shine_v in_o a_o various_a manner_n unto_o various_a believe_a soul_n to_o some_o believe_a soul_n that_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v with_o such_o a_o orient_a transcendent_a brightness_n with_o such_o transparent_a heavenly_a glory_n that_o no_o curtain_n of_o darkness_n or_o distrustfulness_n or_o unbelief_n or_o sinful_a jealousy_n can_v keep_v out_o the_o virtue_n of_o that_o precious_a beam_n but_o to_o some_o other_o believe_v soul_n that_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n to_o faith_n or_o light_n to_o sense_n shine_v only_o like_o a_o beam_n of_o the_o sun_n through_o a_o keyhole_n when_o the_o door_n remain_v shut_v still_o there_o be_v a_o threefold_a degree_n of_o its_o clearness_n and_o perspicuity_n that_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o rom._n 5.1_o 2_o 3._o where_o a_o threefold_a effect_n of_o it_o be_v mention_v 1._o there_o be_v such_o a_o testimony_n as_o procure_v rest_n and_o peace_n to_o the_o toss_v perplex_a believe_v soul_n that_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n 2._o a_o second_o degree_n we_o rejoice_v in_o hope_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o joy_n and_o contentment_n in_o the_o soul_n rest_n 3._o sometime_o the_o testimony_n be_v so_o clear_a and_o perspicuous_a as_o it_o produce_v a_o holy_a triumph_n and_o glory_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n vers_fw-la 3._o not_o only_o so_o but_o we_o glory_n in_o tribulation_n also_o yea_o this_o full_a perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n be_v that_o which_o procure_v such_o a_o general_a triumph_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o do_v not_o only_o triumph_v over_o all_o external_a evil_n as_o be_v more_o than_o a_o conqueror_n over_o persecution_n and_o tribulation_n but_o the_o heart_n in_o that_o moment_n also_o triumph_v over_o all_o temptation_n even_o all_o the_o evil_a working_n of_o natural_a distrust_n and_o unbelief_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n 2._o there_o be_v also_o a_o variety_n in_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n both_o unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o permanency_n and_o continuance_n of_o the_o testimony_n to_o one_o believe_v soul_n the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_n of_o union_n by_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v to_o faith_n eye_n and_o by_o sweet_a holy_a ray_n cast_v upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n but_o these_o be_v but_o like_o a_o flash_n of_o lightning_n shut_v up_o again_o in_o a_o moment_n but_o to_o another_o believe_a soul_n the_o spirit_n render_v this_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n in_o a_o abide_a way_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o variety_n in_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o believe_a soul_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o frequency_n of_o its_o renew_v the_o same_o testimony_n to_o one_o believe_v soul_n the_o spirit_n will_v testify_v again_o and_o again_o upon_o every_o occasion_n the_o spirit_n will_v step_v in_o very_o opportune_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v at_o a_o pinch_n and_o renew_v its_o record_n to_o another_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n vouchsafe_v also_o the_o same_o testimony_n it_o shall_v be_v rare_o and_o for_o a_o moment_n caution_n 3._o three_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o whenever_o the_o bless_a spirit_n do_v avouch_v and_o attest_v most_o full_o to_o a_o believe_a soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o testimony_n do_v not_o always_o actual_o abide_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n without_o interruption_n and_o intermission_n this_o heavenly_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o wisdom_n vouchsafe_v to_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v like_o elijah_n fiery_a chariot_n mount_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o three_o heaven_n for_o a_o season_n yet_o it_o must_v come_v down_o again_o though_o paul_n be_v wrap_v up_o into_o the_o three_o heaven_n yet_o he_o must_v not_o abide_v there_o while_o he_o remain_v in_o the_o flesh_n though_o peter_n may_v have_v a_o soul-ravishing_a view_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o a_o season_n in_o the_o mount_n yet_o he_o must_v not_o have_v a_o tabernacle_n there_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o reason_n why_o it_o be_v the_o bless_a pleasure_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o the_o testimony_n shall_v not_o actual_o abide_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n i._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o difference_n between_o heaven_n and_o earth_n ii_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v have_v his_o honour_n in_o believe_v soul_n in_o his_o predestinate_v way_n the_o prime_a and_o principle_n way_n wherein_o the_o lord_n have_v determine_v from_o eternity_n to_o have_v honour_n from_o his_o saint_n while_o they_o be_v here_o below_o be_v from_o their_o believe_v his_o majesty_n upon_o his_o bare_a word_n 2._o cor._n 5.7_o iii_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o constant_a lively_a experimental_a sense_n of_o the_o soul_n absolute_a dependence_n upon_o the_o lord_n still_o for_o the_o evidence_n of_o
all_o his_o labour_n will_v be_v in_o vain_a by_o consent_v to_o a_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v when_o the_o soul_n stagger_v and_o waver_v in_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n which_o christ_n receive_v and_o proceed_v in_o that_o timorous_a tremble_a waver_a manner_n to_o a_o examination_n of_o that_o his_o evidence_n than_o the_o soul_n either_o seek_v for_o a_o high_a evidence_n than_o what_o he_o receive_v former_o or_o else_o he_o seek_v for_o infallible_a demonstration_n from_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v that_o that_o evidence_n that_o he_o have_v receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n now_o in_o case_n the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v receive_v be_v the_o evidence_n from_o that_o precious_a witness_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o soul_n seek_v all_o in_o vain_a to_o seek_v for_o a_o high_a evidence_n or_o else_o in_o case_n the_o soul_n seek_v to_o prove_v certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o that_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o have_v receive_v be_v from_o god_n by_o the_o effect_n wrought_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n the_o soul_n also_o labour_v in_o vain_a in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n that_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v dubious_a and_o anxious_a about_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o that_o he_o conceive_v to_o have_v receive_v from_o jesus_n christ_n while_o the_o soul_n be_v dubious_a whether_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n iii_o in_o regard_n satan_n indiscernable_o gain_v these_o advantage_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o solicit_v the_o soul_n to_o this_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n by_o satan_n solicit_v the_o soul_n to_o a_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v he_o do_v indeed_o appear_v in_o angelical_a glory_n clothe_v with_o a_o glitter_v garment_n of_o heavenly_a light_n he_o thus_o bespeak_v the_o poor_a believe_a soul_n take_v heed_n o_o soul_n thou_o be_v not_o delude_v in_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o eternity_n man_n heart_n be_v natural_o too_o ready_a to_o presume_v say_v satan_n take_v heed_n lest_o thou_o befool_v thyself_o with_o vain_a hope_n thus_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o messenger_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n send_v on_o purpose_n to_o press_v one_o of_o the_o bless_a command_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v try_v examine_v and_o prove_v itself_o only_o he_o secret_o mix_v a_o curse_a principle_n of_o darkness_n with_o that_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n he_o incite_v the_o believe_a soul_n to_o a_o dubious_a anxious_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o so_o consequent_o procure_v the_o soul_n to_o reject_v the_o bless_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n that_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o mercy_n have_v vouchsafe_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n whereas_o the_o spirit_n intend_v a_o precious_a believe_a trial_n for_o the_o soul_n more_o abundant_a establishment_n and_o consolation_n that_o it_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o joy_n and_o glory_n pre._n 2._o second_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v vouchsafe_v a_o clear_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n ought_v not_o to_o diminish_v in_o the_o least_o degree_n his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v even_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n whilst_o he_o endeavour_v to_o try_v and_o examine_v his_o evidence_n of_o union_n receive_v whether_o it_o be_v from_o god_n or_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o diabolical_a inspiration_n sueh_n be_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o try_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o this_o his_o confidence_n that_o in_o such_o a_o degree_n and_o measure_n as_o that_o soul_n waver_v in_o this_o his_o confidence_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n be_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a of_o a_o right_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v so_o that_o in_o case_n the_o confidence_n shall_v whole_o fail_v the_o soul_n be_v whole_o uncapable_a of_o a_o right_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v dispose_v to_o receive_v the_o clear_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o soul_n be_v dispose_v to_o this_o two_o way_n 1._o by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v fix_v upon_o that_o glass_n through_o which_o the_o light_n that_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shine_v the_o glass_n wherein_o the_o lord_n discover_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v he_o be_v his_o word_n wherein_o he_o declare_v it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v every_o rebel_n and_o enemy_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o through_o he_o now_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v only_o fix_v and_o establish_v upon_o this_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n through_o the_o lively_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n because_o this_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o confidence_n and_o the_o object_n be_v only_o in_o they_o when_o there_o be_v act_v of_o faith_n upon_o the_o object_n 2._o it_o be_v by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n that_o a_o clearness_n be_v maintain_v in_o the_o soul_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v suitable_a to_o discern_v that_o light_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v it_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o confidence_n fail_v a_o multitude_n of_o objection_n and_o reason_n this_o way_n and_o that_o way_n arise_v in_o the_o soul_n every_o one_o of_o these_o objection_n scruple_n and_o reason_n be_v like_o a_o mote_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o prevent_v his_o clear_a discern_v of_o what_o the_o light_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n put_v upon_o it_o now_o by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n those_o objection_n reason_n and_o scrupling_n be_v silence_v and_o suppress_v and_o so_o a_o precious_a clearness_n be_v maintain_v in_o the_o soul_n a_o readiness_n to_o discern_v whatever_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n the_o spirit_n shall_v cause_v to_o shine_v forth_o from_o that_o precious_a word_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v it_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o when_o this_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n fail_v it_o make_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a for_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n the_o act_n of_o this_o very_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o very_a matter_n of_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v actual_o to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o when_o the_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n cease_v then_o be_v the_o very_a matter_n from_o whence_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n sense_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n take_v away_o how_o shall_v the_o bless_a spirit_n cause_v the_o believe_a soul_n to_o see_v its_o self_n believe_v when_o there_o be_v not_o the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v not_o the_o habit_n of_o any_o kind_n of_o holiness_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_a to_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o be_v in_o itself_o but_o it_o be_v the_o act_n of_o any_o holiness_n whatever_o that_o the_o spirit_n do_v cause_v the_o soul_n to_o discern_v in_o itself_o from_o whence_o it_o discern_v actual_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o then_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n fail_v or_o cease_v its_o act_n the_o very_a original_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v take_v away_o second_o the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v not_o only_o to_o forbear_v the_o diminish_n of_o this_o his_o confidence_n in_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n while_o he_o proceed_v to_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v but_o he_o ought_v also_o to_o forbear_v the_o diminish_n of_o his_o confidence_n that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n already_o in_o case_n the_o lord_n
through_o a_o clear_a evidence_n have_v beget_v such_o a_o precious_a confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o say_v concern_v that_o his_o confidence_n as_o job_n say_v concern_v he_o job_n 27.5_o i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n from_o i_o i_o will_v not_o let_v go_v this_o my_o confidence_n till_o i_o have_v prove_v and_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o my_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n from_o whence_o this_o confidence_n do_v arise_v this_o also_o may_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o diminish_n of_o this_o confidence_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n before_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v a_o infinite_a injury_n to_o the_o sweet_a comforter_n the_o bless_a spirit_n who_o through_o the_o manifestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n establish_v the_o soul_n in_o that_o precious_a confidence_n the_o reject_v of_o that_o confidence_n so_o wrought_v by_o the_o bless_a spirit_n be_v a_o slight_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o his_o most_o precious_a office_n and_o a_o disparagement_n of_o the_o very_a witness_n of_o that_o bless_a spirit_n 2._o it_o be_v a_o most_o sinful_a unconstancy_n and_o fickleness_n to_o reject_v any_o thing_n receive_v before_o clear_a demonstration_n of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o receive_v it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o order_n rhat_o the_o lord_n require_v shall_v be_v in_o all_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v subject_a to_o the_o power_n of_o holy_a sanctify_a reason_n so_o that_o this_o confidence_n before_o trial_n ought_v to_o be_v maintain_v in_o its_o full_a strength_n in_o case_n such_o a_o confidence_n be_v beget_v by_o a_o evidence_n former_o receive_v that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n quest_n but_o here_o be_v a_o question_n then_o by_o the_o way_n will_v be_v open_v but_o will_v the_o soul_n say_v wherefore_o then_o be_v the_o command_v give_v by_o god_n to_o prove_v and_o examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o say_v and_o so_o consequent_o to_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o our_o union_n with_o christ_n if_o we_o must_v not_o be_v dubious_a and_o anxious_a whether_o the_o evidence_n of_o our_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v true_a or_o no_o before_o we_o proceed_v ro_o the_o trial_n and_o examination_n of_o they_o answ_n 1._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o question_n by_o the_o way_n brief_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o these_o command_n of_o soul_n examine_v themselves_o whether_o they_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n be_v give_v universal_o to_o all_o soul_n on_o purpose_n that_o delude_a soul_n by_o the_o try_v and_o prove_v themselves_o may_v discover_v their_o own_o delusion_n and_o discern_v their_o lie_a confidence_n of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o these_o command_n be_v give_v on_o purpose_n to_o believe_a soul_n to_o maintain_v the_o life_n of_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o the_o confidence_n that_o they_o be_v admit_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n these_o command_n be_v occasion_n to_o soul_n true_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o review_v over_o the_o ground_n of_o their_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o lord_n actual_a admission_n of_o they_o into_o union_n now_o the_o more_o the_o soul_n view_v the_o ground_n of_o his_o confidence_n the_o more_o it_o view_v that_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n that_o reveal_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v even_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o case_n he_o accept_v it_o and_o by_o the_o soul_n gaze_v upon_o that_o bless_a word_n it_o discern_v more_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o certainty_n infallibility_n and_o unchangeableness_n of_o that_o word_n and_o the_o more_o frequent_o and_o full_o the_o soul_n discern_v that_o the_o strong_a be_v its_o confidence_n in_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v even_o that_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o thence_o there_o be_v more_o occasion_n for_o the_o bless_a spirit_n to_o irradiate_a rhe_n soul_n believe_v act_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o see_v and_o feel_v itself_o to_o believe_v aright_o by_o which_o mean_v the_o actual_a confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n admission_n with_o christ_n live_v and_o be_v maintain_v in_o its_o strength_n 3._o these_o command_n be_v give_v that_o there_o may_v be_v more_o preparedness_n against_o all_o assault_n that_o be_v make_v from_o hell_n against_o those_o soul_n through_o this_o examination_n believe_v soul_n have_v their_o confidence_n maintain_v in_o its_o life_n and_o strength_n and_o so_o be_v fortify_v against_o temptation_n because_o it_o discern_v clear_o the_o foundation_n upon_o which_o his_o own_o confidence_n stand_v 4._o the_o lord_n give_v these_o command_n on_o purpose_n to_o draw_v forth_o into_o exercise_n all_o manner_n of_o holy_a disposition_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n this_o be_v do_v by_o the_o renew_a view_n of_o that_o light_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n or_o unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thenâ—…_n be_v the_o precious_a subjection_n of_o the_o heart_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n act_v then_o be_v the_o correspondent_a love_n of_o the_o soul_n answerable_a to_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n draw_v out_o in_o its_o strength_n then_o be_v all_o the_o thirsting_n after_o near_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n act_v pre._n 3._o three_o a_o three_o thing_n to_o be_v premise_v be_v this_o that_o there_o be_v many_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a to_o believe_v soul_n in_o the_o time_n when_o they_o be_v doubtful_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o whenever_o they_o do_v prevail_v in_o any_o soul_n during_o their_o prevalency_n they_o do_v incapacitate_v those_o soul_n for_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o true_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n there_o be_v especial_o four_o of_o those_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a unto_o believe_v soul_n at_o such_o a_o time_n 1._o there_o be_v a_o impatiency_n and_o frowardness_n of_o spirit_n under_o the_o obscurity_n of_o that_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n incident_a to_o every_o believe_a soul_n indeed_o our_o spirit_n be_v natural_o impatient_a under_o every_o burden_n but_o when_o any_o arrow_n from_o the_o almighty_a be_v shoot_v into_o the_o conscience_n or_o any_o arrow_n from_o hell_n stick_v fast_o there_o i_o mean_v any_o doubtfulness_n any_o terror_n and_o fear_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o their_o conceive_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n then_o be_v their_o spirit_n in_o a_o superlative_a manner_n prone_a to_o fret_v and_o vex_v and_o fume_n by_o the_o prevail_a of_o unruly_a passion_n thus_o david_n under_o the_o doubtfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v a_o promise_n make_v to_o he_o break_v out_o into_o most_o dreadful_a impatience_n in_o 1_o sam._n 27.1_o i_o shall_v one_o day_n perish_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o saul_n so_o in_o psal_n 116.11_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n so_o psal_n 31.22_o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n i_o be_o cut_v off_o from_o before_o thy_o eye_n so_o the_o holy_a man_n job_n chap._n 3.3_o and_o chap._n 6.8_o 9_o now_o during_o the_o prevalency_n of_o this_o distemper_n of_o impatiency_n and_o frowardness_n of_o spirit_n under_o doubt_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n their_o spirit_n be_v make_v uncable_a of_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o be_v two_o way_n how_o this_o sinful_a distemper_n do_v incapacitate_v soul_n for_o the_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n 1._o it_o do_v prevent_v a_o serious_a deliberate_a view_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o they_o have_v receive_v by_o draw_v out_o the_o intention_n of_o their_o spirit_n to_o look_v upon_o the_o ground_n of_o their_o fear_n of_o the_o falseness_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n when_o any_o passion_n prevail_v in_o any_o spirit_n it_o draw_v out_o the_o whole_a strength_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o way_n now_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v draw_v out_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o object_n of_o his_o fear_n the_o ground_n of_o his_o doubt_n and_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o suspicion_n of_o the_o falseness_n of_o his_o union_n by_o this_o the_o soul_n be_v make_v unsuitable_a to_o take_v any_o right_n deliberate_a
to_o close_o with_o and_o accept_v of_o the_o precious_a tender_a of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o the_o soul_n now_o when_o the_o spirit_n light_a of_o manifestation_n whereby_o it_o do_v irradiate_a the_o word_n to_o the_o soul_n be_v withdraw_v the_o soul_n must_v needs_o be_v uncapable_a to_o examine_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n for_o it_o be_v only_o through_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n or_o manifestation_n of_o the_o word_n that_o any_o believe_a soul_n do_v at_o first_o clear_o and_o satisfy_o and_o unquestionable_o discern_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o therefore_o when_o this_o light_n of_o manifestation_n from_o the_o spirit_n be_v withdraw_v again_o it_o can_v be_v that_o the_o believe_a soul_n shall_v clear_o discern_v their_o precious_a truth_n and_o so_o long_o as_o the_o soul_n enjoy_v not_o this_o evidence_n unto_o he_o say_v of_o his_o certain_a acceptance_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v impossible_a the_o soul_n shall_v have_v any_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n see_v the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n do_v whole_o depend_v upon_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n 2._o in_o regard_v all_o the_o opposite_a power_n of_o corruption_n in_o his_o soul_n unto_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v renew_v in_o some_o degree_n their_o tyranny_n over_o the_o soul_n yea_o not_o only_o so_o but_o all_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n that_o do_v oppose_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v then_o furnish_v with_o renew_a argument_n and_o objection_n against_o the_o poor_a soul_n acceptance_n into_o union_n yea_o with_o such_o objection_n as_o nothing_o can_v answer_v but_o say_v itself_o as_o for_o example_n 1._o then_o carnal_a reason_n '_o mouth_n be_v fill_v with_o new_a matter_n of_o objection_n against_o the_o soul_n union_n carnal_a reason_n that_o say_v former_o thou_o be_v a_o rebel_n a_o enemy_n that_o have_v continue_v thus_o many_o year_n in_o enmity_n therefore_o can_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n can_v now_o say_v more_o thou_o have_v now_o deal_v unfaithful_o with_o god_n thou_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n a_o bacstslider_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o the_o lord_n that_o bear_v thy_o enmity_n and_o rebellion_n shall_v bare_v thy_o falseness_n and_o hypocrisy_n 2._o natural_a distrust_n of_o god_n curse_a jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n of_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n do_v renew_v their_o tyranny_n also_o when_o holiness_n decay_v now_o natural_a distrust_n and_o curse_a jealousy_n of_o god_n can_v say_v what_o do_v thou_o think_v it_o be_v possible_a for_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n who_o be_v so_o just_a who_o have_v say_v he_o will_v avenge_v himself_o upon_o those_o that_o go_v on_o in_o their_o wickedness_n shall_v ever_o accept_v theâ—_n into_o reconciliation_n with_o himself_o 3._o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n renew_v his_o tyrannize_a power_n when_o the_o soul_n decay_n in_o holiness_n now_o conscience_n be_v furnish_v with_o a_o new_a bill_n of_o indictment_n against_o the_o soul_n it_o can_v now_o lay_v to_o the_o soul_n charge_v guile_n and_o deceitfulness_n of_o heart_n with_o god_n and_o willing_a apostasy_n from_o god_n so_o that_o now_o it_o can_v with_o a_o full_a mouth_n pass_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n against_o the_o soul_n afresh_o and_o be_v furnish_v with_o such_o argument_n as_o nothing_o but_o faith_n can_v answer_v nothing_o but_o a_o renew_a vision_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v declare_v in_o his_o bless_a word_n to_o accept_v of_o every_o poor_a undo_v perish_v soul_n be_v he_o as_o bad_a as_o a_o incarnate_a devil_n in_o case_n the_o soul_n will_v accept_v of_o union_n with_o he_o can_v satisfy_v either_o carnal_a reason_n or_o suspicious_a argmment_n or_o conscience_n accusation_n 3._o the_o soul_n decay_v in_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a to_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n the_o soul_n remain_v under_o a_o inevitable_a a_o unavoidable_a necessity_n to_o submit_v to_o the_o judgement_n that_o sense_n shall_v pass_v upon_o his_o soul_n now_o sense_n can_v pass_v no_o other_o judgemennt_v upon_o a_o soul_n estate_n that_o be_v decay_v in_o holiness_n but_o that_o certain_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o he_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v be_v delusion_n sense_n can_v see_v none_o of_o those_o precious_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o sense_n can_v pass_v no_o other_o judgement_n unless_o it_o be_v captivate_v unto_o the_o power_n of_o faith_n 4._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v apparent_a defect_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n of_o the_o proper_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o the_o true_a manifestation_n to_o a_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v a_o height_n of_o holiness_n now_o when_o holiness_n be_v decay_v satan_n can_v say_v by_o a_o fallacious_a argument_n thy_o evidence_n of_o thy_o union_n that_o thou_o think_v thou_o have_v be_v delusion_n indeed_o do_v not_o see_v by_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o evidence_n those_o that_o have_v evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v their_o heart_n in_o a_o adore_a admire_a frame_n of_o god_n they_o have_v their_o heart_n enlarge_v to_o the_o utmost_a towards_o god_n in_o christ_n but_o thou_o have_v a_o blockish_a senselese_fw-mi careless_a heartless_a mindless_a unprofitable_a spirit_n sure_o thy_o evidence_n therefore_o be_v delusion_n now_o indeed_o here_o be_v a_o fallacy_n in_o satan_n argument_n that_o be_v hard_o to_o be_v discern_v here_o be_v a_o depth_n of_o satan_n here_o be_v one_o of_o those_o cunning_a device_n that_o most_o soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o he_o fail_v of_o nothing_o in_o his_o argument_n but_o only_o in_o time_n his_o argument_n shall_v have_v run_v thus_o only_a soul_n that_o have_v true_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n whilst_o those_o evidence_n remain_v they_o be_v in_o a_o admire_a adore_a frame_n and_o their_o heart_n elevate_v and_o enlarge_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o holiness_n if_o this_o have_v be_v satan_n major_a proposition_n his_o assumption_n must_v have_v be_v false_a then_o he_o can_v not_o have_v say_v but_o thou_o in_o that_o moment_n and_o instant_n when_o those_o evidennes_n be_v give_v to_o the_o during_o the_o continuance_n of_o those_o evidence_n in_o their_o clear_a light_n that_o thou_o be_v unite_v thy_o heart_n be_v not_o enlarge_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o holiness_n and_o take_v with_o a_o precious_a admiration_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o soul_n be_v under_o a_o actual_a provocation_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o a_o penal_a suspension_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o manifestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n either_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n or_o that_o he_o be_v admit_v the_o soul_n he_o can_v never_o discern_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n satisfy_o and_o infallible_o without_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o same_o light_n both_o manifest_v the_o word_n to_o the_o believe_a disposition_n and_o manifest_v the_o believe_a act_n also_o to_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n now_o therefore_o the_o soul_n must_v needs_o be_v unsuitable_a to_o examine_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n while_o he_o be_v actual_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o withdraw_v that_o bless_a spirit_n and_o to_o suspend_v his_o operation_n unto_o the_o soul_n now_o here_o be_v a_o question_n necessary_o cast_v in_o to_o be_v open_v by_o the_o way_n before_o we_o can_v proceed_v any_o far_a que._n but_o will_v the_o soul_n say_v if_o soul_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o impatiency_n rashness_n irrational_a affection_n prejudicial_a conceit_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o soul_n under_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a for_o a_o right_a trial_n of_o their_o evidence_n then_o what_o suitable_a mean_n remain_v for_o such_o soul_n under_o fear_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n be_v delusion_n ans_fw-fr first_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o only_a immediate_a effectual_a mean_v of_o redemption_n of_o such_o soul_n from_o such_o torture_a fear_n suspicion_n and_o jealousy_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o delusion_n be_v a_o renew_a act_n of_o confidence_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n to_o their_o particular_a soul_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v declare_v his_o will_n to_o give_v the_o lord_n jesus_n free_o to_o every_o perish_a sinner_n that_o shall_v accept_v he_o to_o mediate_v a_o reconciliation_n with_o the_o father_n for_o he_o though_o plunge_v into_o the_o most_o bottomless_a depth_n of_o sin_n the_o universal_a unlimited_a offer_n
satisfy_a power_n of_o the_o manifest_v light_n unto_o his_o faith_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v now_o again_o in_o this_o renew_a act_n gain_v a_o sight_n and_o manifestation_n of_o that_o satisfy_a power_n in_o a_o manifest_v truth_n that_o his_o soul_n shall_v be_v acept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o thence_o the_o lord_n discern_v the_o causelesness_n of_o his_o own_o prejudicial_a thought_n and_o opinion_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n and_o so_o consequent_o abhor_v himself_o in_o that_o he_o dishonour_v the_o bless_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n 5._o through_o the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o this_o believe_a act_n that_o decay_n in_o holiness_n which_o do_v make_v the_o soul_n unsuitable_a to_o take_v a_o just_a impartial_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v repair_v that_o appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o the_o mind_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v fill_v with_o all_o the_o notion_n conception_n and_o apprehension_n from_o whence_o holy_a act_n do_v arise_v be_v maintain_v and_o increase_v and_o through_o the_o defect_n of_o which_o holiness_n decay_v and_o consume_v in_o any_o soul_n these_o holy_a notion_n from_o whence_o holiness_n proceed_v be_v principal_o these_o that_o there_o be_v a_o fullness_n of_o all_o love_n and_o mercy_n tender_v free_o by_o god_n to_o this_o poor_a unlovely_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v so_o infinite_o rich_a in_o his_o love_n that_o he_o do_v pass_v over_o all_o that_o can_v be_v suitable_a for_o the_o poor_a empty_a soul_n free_o to_o it_o in_o christ_n now_o it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v a_o renew_a believe_v act_n without_o these_o notion_n be_v bring_v fresh_a to_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n 2._o all_o the_o holy_a affection_n be_v excite_v also_o to_o a_o renew_a exercise_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o renew_a act._n all_o the_o affection_n be_v under_o the_o command_n of_o these_o two_o love_n and_o hatred_n now_o both_o these_o be_v excite_v to_o a_o renew_a exercise_n and_o that_o with_o a_o mighty_a strength_n by_o virtue_n of_o the_o renew_a act._n love_n towards_o god_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o very_o reflect_v of_o the_o lord_n love_v cast_v upon_o the_o soul_n upon_o god_n again_o the_o act_n of_o love_n always_o proceed_v from_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n now_o in_o the_o believe_a act_n there_o be_v a_o actual_a view_n of_o the_o infinite_a unspeakable_a riches_n of_o love_n to_o the_o unlovely_a forlorn_a soul_n and_o thence_o love_n be_v draw_v forth_o in_o its_o very_a strength_n towards_o god_n again_o likewise_o hatred_n which_o command_v the_o other_o part_n of_o the_o affection_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o displicency_n than_o be_v in_o the_o will_n against_o any_o object_n whatever_o which_o affection_n do_v natural_o proceed_v from_o the_o soul_n love_n now_o therefore_o the_o hatred_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v proper_o against_o sin_n and_o whatever_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n and_o his_o will._n in_o the_o same_o degree_n that_o love_n act_n in_o the_o soul_n towards_o god_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n do_v hatred_n work_v towards_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o god_n now_o by_o the_o stir_v up_o of_o these_o two_o all_o the_o other_o holy_a affection_n also_o be_v excite_v into_o their_o exercise_n thence_o the_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v sweet_o repair_v and_o the_o soul_n put_v into_o a_o suitable_a temper_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o all_o the_o lord_n ordinance_n and_o appointment_n for_o his_o people_n soul_n to_o enjoy_v communion_n with_o himself_o in_o be_v also_o mediate_a and_o second_v mean_n of_o the_o delivery_n of_o those_o soul_n from_o the_o dreadful_a tyranny_n of_o the_o fear_n and_o jealousy_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n be_v delusion_n thus_o prayer_n conference_n meditation_n hear_v the_o word_n be_v all_o secondary_a mean_n to_o wait_v for_o the_o spirit_n to_o breath_n in_o power_n from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n in_o this_o renew_a believe_v act_n and_o to_o continue_v the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o you_o see_v a_o sufficient_a mean_n leave_v for_o these_o distemper_a or_o decline_v soul_n that_o be_v either_o uncapable_a or_o unsuitable_a for_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n to_o deliver_v they_o from_o fear_n and_o terror_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v delusion_n now_o in_o regard_n the_o question_n be_v about_o a_o matter_n so_o practical_a i_o shall_v therefore_o turn_v the_o last_o answer_n into_o a_o kind_n of_o advise_v beseech_v and_o entreat_v every_o distemper_a or_o decline_v soul_n in_o holiness_n to_o take_v this_o course_n to_o strive_v for_o deliverance_n of_o his_o soul_n from_o 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to_o apprehend_v aright_o any_o truth_n from_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n propound_v to_o he_o even_o when_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v renew_v and_o some_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o poor_a soul_n so_o that_o in_o a_o metaphorical_a sense_n the_o blind_a soul_n become_v a_o see_a soul_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n also_o that_o the_o same_o spirit_n that_o communicate_v the_o see_a eye_n to_o the_o understanding_n shall_v also_o communicate_v the_o see_v of_o the_o eye_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o the_o same_o spirit_n that_o communicate_v the_o habit_n shall_v communicate_v also_o the_o act_n the_o same_o spirit_n that_o give_v a_o principle_n of_o divine_a knowledge_n to_o the_o soul_n must_v also_o act_v the_o same_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a knowledge_n to_o make_v the_o soul_n actual_o know_v or_o understand_v any_o spiritual_a holy_a mystery_n aright_o now_o then_o when_o the_o evidence_n to_o the_o 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shall_v soul_n make_v of_o the_o evidence_n they_o conceive_v they_o have_v receive_v of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n when_o the_o lustre_n and_o orient_a brightness_n of_o their_o evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o their_o command_a power_n enervate_v or_o wound_v that_o their_o evidence_n cease_v to_o witness_v unto_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o order_n to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o soul_n in_o this_o scruple_n we_o shall_v lay_v down_o divers_a proposition_n prop._n 1._o first_o whenever_o the_o celestial_a glory_n of_o those_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o cast_v into_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o evidence_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v dark_a and_o those_o invincible_a and_o impregnable_a demonstration_n that_o the_o bless_a spirit_n give_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n to_o prove_v and_o demonstrate_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v weaken_v yet_o it_o be_v
to_o heb._n 6.17_o he_o confirm_v it_o by_o a_o oath_n that_o by_o 2._o immutable_a thing_n two_o thing_n that_o be_v subject_a to_o no_o alteration_n or_o diminution_n that_o be_v to_o say_v by_o the_o word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o by_o his_o oath_n also_o they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n that_o do_v flee_v from_o refuge_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o the_o hope_n set_v before_o they_o that_o be_v that_o do_v accept_v of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v to_o they_o so_o that_o the_o hang_v thus_o the_o eternal_a estate_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o the_o former_a evidence_n be_v too_o high_a a_o use_n to_o put_v the_o former_a evidence_n too_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n itself_o that_o the_o former_a evidence_a beam_n of_o light_a manifest_a that_o be_v only_o destinate_a to_o that_o precious_a use_n to_o build_v the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n admission_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n upon_o even_o that_o truth_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v declare_v that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v even_o that_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o he_o will_v aceept_v it_o and_o whenever_o scruple_n and_o objection_n and_o doubt_n possess_v the_o soul_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o any_o former_a evidence_n the_o first-born_a of_o the_o soul_n endeavour_v shall_v be_v take_v up_o in_o in_o clear_v that_o truth_n that_o the_o soul_n do_v conceive_v some_o beam_n of_o light_n do_v evidence_n to_o he_o prop._n 4._o there_o be_v a_o strait_a command_n from_o the_o high_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n give_v unto_o every_o believe_a soul_n to_o make_v a_o holy_a use_n advantage_n and_o improvement_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n vouchsafe_v to_o he_o that_o one_o scripture_n give_v sufficient_a testimony_n heb._n 10.32_o call_v to_o remembrance_n the_o former_a day_n in_o which_o after_o you_o be_v illuminate_v you_o endure_v a_o great_a fight_n of_o affliction_n this_o the_o apostle_n command_v they_o in_o order_n to_o the_o strengthen_n of_o their_o confidence_n ver_fw-la 35._o thus_o asaph_n do_v psal_n 77.5_o 6._o when_o he_o be_v under_o darkness_n when_o the_o power_n of_o unbelief_n begin_v to_o rage_n in_o his_o soul_n and_o to_o tyrannize_v over_o he_o than_o he_o begin_v to_o make_v improvement_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v and_o favour_n to_o he_o he_o remember_v god_n and_o be_v trouble_v now_o he_o recall_v himself_o and_o begin_v to_o make_v diligent_a search_n into_o the_o former_a testimony_n of_o the_o lord_n kindness_n to_o he_o i_o consider_v the_o day_n of_o old_a the_o year_n of_o ancient_a time_n i_o call_v to_o remembrance_n my_o song_n in_o the_o night_n i_o common_a with_o my_o own_o heart_n and_o my_o spirit_n make_v diligent_a search_n i_o call_v to_o remembrance_n my_o song_n in_o the_o night_n that_o be_v the_o former_a comfortable_a communion_n i_o enjoy_v in_o god_n how_o god_n 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some_o hope_n of_o it_o those_o i_o say_v though_o they_o may_v be_v and_o be_v frequent_o such_o as_o real_o descend_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yet_o also_o from_o such_o conceit_a and_o suppose_a act_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n proceed_v most_o of_o those_o soul-deluding_a hope_n that_o poor_a blind_a soul_n be_v delude_v with_o by_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o because_o the_o difference_n between_o these_o two_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o so_o great_a difficulty_n to_o discern_v i_o dare_v not_o persuade_v any_o soul_n who_o conceive_v that_o he_o have_v have_v evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n who_o evidence_n have_v be_v only_o some_o flash_n of_o light_n from_o some_o conceive_a act_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o christ_n to_o believe_v firm_o impregnable_o and_o unmovable_o that_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o those_o his_o evidence_n do_v descend_v from_o god_n when_o he_o do_v not_o 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the_o believer_n faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n now_o i_o say_v though_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v unsuitable_a to_o take_v a_o just_a examination_n of_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n former_o give_v to_o his_o faith_n when_o their_o glory_n be_v obscure_v and_o darken_v yet_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n though_o it_o can_v so_o clear_o and_o sensible_o discern_v it_o the_o matter_n that_o be_v evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n be_v no_o more_o than_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n upon_o the_o soul_n from_o heaven_n continual_o to_o believe_v and_o therefore_o the_o matter_n that_o be_v evidence_v be_v true_a and_o the_o soul_n engage_v from_o god_n to_o believe_v it_o the_o soul_n also_o stand_v engage_v to_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o his_o former_a evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n receive_v concern_v the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o and_o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o such_o a_o former_a mamanifestation_n give_v unto_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o bless_a spirit_n concern_v that_o bless_a good_a will_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o gather_v heart_n and_o strength_n and_o courage_n to_o renew_v the_o confidence_n of_o his_o poor_a waver_a rremble_a unstable_a heart_n 2._o the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n give_v unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o foster_v and_o nourish_v a_o lively_a hope_n in_o his_o soul_n that_o the_o same_o bless_a light_n of_o manifestation_n to_o manifest_a unto_o his_o faith_n clear_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v return_v that_o experience_n that_o such_o a_o soul_n have_v have_v that_o there_o be_v a_o time_n of_o light_n and_o a_o time_n of_o darkness_n that_o the_o wisdom_n of_o heaven_n see_v
suitable_a for_o believe_v soul_n that_o there_o be_v a_o night_n and_o a_o day_n as_o well_o in_o the_o spiritual_a life_n as_o in_o the_o natural_a life_n aught_o to_o be_v a_o ground_n to_o maintain_v a_o lively_a hope_n that_o when_o it_o be_v night_n day_n may_v break_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n unquestionable_o to_o nourish_v and_o cherish_v such_o a_o lively_a hope_n 3._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o its_o former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o obstruct_v itself_o in_o the_o obscurity_n darkness_n and_o dreadful_a blindness_n of_o his_o own_o mind_n the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o say_v within_o himself_o o_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n irradiate_v the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n how_o clear_a how_o unquestionable_a be_v it_o to_o my_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n bless_a will_n to_o receive_v my_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o i_o will_v embrace_v he_o and_o though_o i_o have_v now_o the_o same_o word_n to_o testify_v the_o same_o thing_n to_o my_o soul_n yet_o how_o dark_a be_v it_o to_o my_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a how_o hard_o be_v it_o for_o my_o poor_a blind_a mind_n to_o receive_v and_o apprehend_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o receive_v this_o my_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n 4._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o instruct_v itself_o in_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o lord_n way_n towards_o believe_a soul_n from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v learn_v that_o the_o lord_n carry_v on_o the_o soul_n towards_o full_a communion_n with_o himself_o through_o christ_n as_o well_o by_o sensible_a decay_n in_o communion_n as_o by_o sensible_a increase_v in_o communion_n and_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v instruct_v itself_o that_o joy_n and_o peace_n ravishment_n of_o spirit_n triumph_v act_n of_o faith_n be_v not_o so_o inseparable_a from_o believe_v soul_n but_o that_o they_o may_v be_v want_v that_o they_o be_v not_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o be_v constant_a at_o least_o to_o the_o soul_n attain_v unto_o perfection_n of_o communion_n so_o that_o thus_o the_o soul_n may_v learn_v to_o adore_v the_o lord_n in_o apprehend_v the_o unsearchableness_n of_o his_o way_n even_o towards_o believe_v soul_n the_o unsearchableness_n of_o his_o wisdom_n that_o neither_o man_n nor_o angel_n can_v measure_v 5._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n who_o brightness_n and_o glory_n be_v now_o eclipse_v the_o soul_n may_v instruct_v itself_o in_o the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o entire_a constant_a uninterrupted_a dependence_n upon_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n the_o soul_n ought_v in_o remembrance_n of_o that_o full_a satisfaction_n that_o it_o enjoy_v when_o that_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n give_v beam_n of_o light_n to_o his_o dark_a mind_n to_o clear_v up_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o his_o precious_a word_n to_o say_v o_o how_o infinite_a be_v the_o necessity_n of_o hang_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n continual_o for_o the_o constant_a operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n into_o this_o my_o dark_a heart_n 6._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o soul_n ought_v to_o collect_v holy_a plea_n and_o precious_a argument_n to_o intercede_v with_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n for_o the_o return_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n unto_o his_o soul_n this_o be_v the_o constant_a practice_n of_o all_o the_o saint_n who_o have_v enjoy_v any_o experience_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n and_o kindness_n they_o do_v endeavour_v to_o engage_v the_o lord_n to_o return_v when_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v absent_a many_o be_v the_o argument_n that_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v collect_v from_o the_o former_a enjoyment_n of_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o plead_v with_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o return_v with_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n again_o to_o his_o soul_n 1._o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n may_v remember_v the_o precious_a suitable_a disposition_n that_o possess_v his_o heart_n for_o the_o worship_v of_o the_o lord_n in_o every_o ordinance_n now_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v raise_v a_o precious_a argument_n wherewith_o he_o may_v go_v bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n and_o cry_v to_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n when_o shall_v that_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_a return_n to_o this_o darken_a soul_n of_o i_o 2._o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v the_o readiness_n the_o quickness_n the_o activity_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o all_o manner_n of_o obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n now_o from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v fetch_v a_o strong_a argument_n wherewith_o to_o come_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n o_o my_o god_n may_v the_o believe_a soul_n say_v when_o thy_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n have_v the_o precious_a operation_n upon_o my_o heart_n what_o a_o bless_a concurrence_n be_v there_o in_o this_o my_o crooked_a opposite_a will_n to_o this_o thy_o holy_a will_n o_o what_o a_o union_n of_o love_n be_v there_o between_o this_o thy_o majesty_n and_o my_o opposite_a heart_n how_o impatient_a then_o be_v my_o soul_n of_o any_o disagreement_n between_o my_o will_n and_o thy_o will_n how_o ready_o be_v my_o heart_n dispose_v for_o any_o thing_n thy_o bless_a majesty_n command_v but_o now_o alas_o lord_n now_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n be_v suspend_v what_o a_o disagreement_n be_v there_o between_o thy_o majesty_n will_n and_o my_o will_n how_o straight_o and_o narrow_a and_o weak_a and_o feeble_a be_v the_o inclination_n of_o my_o heart_n now_o to_o obedience_n to_o thy_o bless_a will_n lord_n may_v the_o soul_n say_v have_v respect_n to_o thy_o own_o honour_n send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n into_o this_o dark_a heart_n 3._o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v how_o high_o the_o bless_a name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v and_o magnify_v in_o his_o heart_n when_o that_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n continue_v its_o bless_a operation_n to_o evidence_n actual_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n from_o who_o the_o lustre_n and_o glory_n of_o these_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v now_o eclipse_v may_v argue_v with_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o send_v down_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n again_o to_o his_o dark_a soul_n 4._o even_o when_o the_o orient_a brightness_n and_o heavenly_a lustre_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o darken_v yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v the_o capaciousness_n and_o enlarge_v openness_n of_o his_o heart_n towards_o communion_n with_o god_n while_o the_o orient_a lustre_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v actual_o remain_v now_o from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v gather_v strength_n of_o argument_n to_o appear_v before_o the_o lord_n to_o petition_v the_o return_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n again_o to_o his_o soul_n the_o soul_n may_v plead_v that_o the_o suitableness_n and_o right_a disposition_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n depend_v upon_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n 5._o even_o when_o the_o orient_a brightness_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o obscure_v yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v how_o glorious_o the_o lovely_a beauty_n and_o soul_n enamour_v brightness_n of_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n be_v transparent_a through_o he_o when_o the_o heavenly_a lustre_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n do_v actual_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n now_o from_o hence_o the_o soul_n may_v gather_v a_o precious_a argument_n whereby_o he_o may_v lay_v a_o engagement_n upon_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n again_o thence_o the_o soul_n may_v plead_v that_o the_o lustre_n and_o heavenly_a beauty_n of_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v manifest_v through_o he_o depend_v upon_o his_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n 6._o when_o the_o cammand_a power_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v cease_v for_o the_o present_a to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n yet_o then_o the_o soul_n may_v remember_v that_o the_o tender_a compassionate_a bowel_n of_o god_n have_v move_v within_o he_o and_o yearned_a towards_o his_o soul_n former_o now_o from_o thence_o the_o feeble_a almost_o faint_v droop_a soul_n may_v still_o gather_v more_o strength_n and_o lift_v up_o its_o head_n again_o to_o claim_v the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n to_o
be_v indeed_o to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n yea_o that_o his_o soul_n be_v already_o lodge_v in_o that_o precious_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n than_o the_o soul_n behold_v such_o a_o unspeakable_a preciousness_n in_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o he_o wait_v upon_o such_o a_o unbeliever_n such_o a_o crooked_a opposite_a wretch_n so_o long_o that_o the_o soul_n set_v down_o silent_o to_o admire_v and_o be_v swallow_v to_o the_o depth_n in_o admiration_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o soul_n amaze_a brightness_n appear_v in_o the_o soul_n eye_n in_o the_o independence_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v when_o that_o bright_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o soul_n see_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o move_v the_o heart_n of_o god_n to_o have_v thought_n of_o love_n towards_o he_o nothing_o that_o incline_v his_o bless_a will_n to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n but_o only_o his_o precious_a disposition_n only_o his_o eternal_a thought_n of_o kindness_n that_o old_a love_a kindness_n of_o he_o from_o eternity_n then_o the_o soul_n say_v as_o david_n in_o 1_o sam._n 7.21_o for_o thy_o word_n sake_n and_o according_a to_o thy_o own_o heart_n have_v thou_o do_v all_o these_o great_a thing_n to_o make_v thy_o servant_n know_v they_o then_o the_o believe_a soul_n say_v though_o my_o wretched_a unbelieve_a heart_n can_v not_o trust_v thou_o yet_o for_o thy_o word_n sake_n thou_o have_v fulfil_v it_o according_a to_o thy_o own_o heart_n thou_o have_v do_v it_o o_o lord_n what_o can_v thy_o pure_a eye_n behold_v in_o this_o forlorn_a soul_n of_o i_o what_o can_v have_v move_v the_o lord_n think_v the_o soul_n but_o his_o own_o bless_a will_n to_o choose_v such_o a_o useless_a such_o a_o unserviceable_a such_o a_o unprofitable_a such_o a_o barren_a such_o a_o foolish_a yea_o such_o a_o cross_a heart_a wretch_n as_o i_o 3._o the_o glorious_a irresistible_a power_n of_o the_o lord_n eternal_a love_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o loveless_a soul_n shine_v glorious_o when_o once_o the_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n that_o discover_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n how_o many_o curse_a contradiction_n think_v a_o believe_a soul_n do_v the_o love_n of_o christ_n suffer_v from_o my_o soul_n how_o often_o do_v my_o vile_a believe_a heart_n give_v the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n the_o lie_n how_o many_o year_n do_v i_o sleight_v this_o i_o stop_v my_o ear_n i_o hearken_v to_o none_o of_o his_o bless_a tender_n yet_o than_o he_o bore_v my_o ear_n and_o constrain_v i_o to_o hear_v o_o think_v the_o soul_n what_o a_o froward_a perverse_a heart_a wretch_n have_v i_o be_v to_o this_o dear_a god_n of_o i_o certain_o think_v the_o soul_n if_o rebellion_n if_o enmity_n if_o the_o work_n of_o a_o devil_n heart_n can_v have_v oppose_v it_o it_o have_v be_v turn_v away_o from_o i_o four_o the_o orient_a brightness_n of_o the_o lord_n infallible_a truth_n shine_v before_o the_o soul_n these_o beam_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n shine_v in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n before_o the_o soul_n eye_n but_o there_o be_v multitude_n of_o the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o also_o with_o these_o shine_v in_o the_o same_o moment_n into_o the_o same_o soul_n when_o a_o light_n proceed_v from_o god_n to_o discever_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n then_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o contrive_v the_o design_n of_o redemption_n by_o christ_n appear_v then_o do_v the_o very_a beauty_n of_o justice_n itself_o appear_v in_o the_o lord_n contrive_v the_o redemption_n of_o loveless_a soul_n in_o such_o a_o way_n wherein_o justice_n and_o mercy_n may_v meet_v together_o and_o kiss_v each_o other_o so_o that_o indeed_o a_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n that_o incompass_v the_o soul_n round_o about_o that_o the_o soul_n stand_v amaze_v and_o astonish_v gaze_v upon_o those_o beam_n of_o glory_n that_o appear_v shine_v forth_o from_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n into_o his_o soul_n ii_o a_o second_o act_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v in_o the_o soul_n be_v a_o sensible_a apprehension_n and_o estimation_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v infinite_o worthy_a to_o receive_v all_o prefection_n of_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o praise_n for_o ever_o now_o this_o precious_a god_n sanctify_v act_n be_v also_o the_o infallible_a necessary_a effect_n of_o such_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n as_o do_v true_o shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n into_o any_o soul_n to_o discover_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o be_v effect_v in_o david_n heart_n upon_o the_o prophet_n discover_v of_o the_o promise_v make_v in_o jesus_n to_o he_o in_o 2._o sam._n 7.26_o let_v thy_o name_n be_v magnify_v for_o ever_o say_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n be_v the_o god_n over_o israel_n yea_o this_o act_n be_v infallible_o produce_v in_o a_o believe_a soul_n by_o every_o visible_a motion_n of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n or_o love_n towards_o the_o soul_n so_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o exod._n 15.20_o miriam_n cry_v to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o daughter_n of_o judah_n sing_v you_o to_o the_o lord_n for_o he_o have_v triumph_v glorious_o so_o rev._n 4.10_o 11._o the_o four_o and_o twenty_o elder_n fall_v down_o that_o sit_v before_o he_o upon_o the_o throne_n say_v thou_o be_v worthy_a o_o lord_n to_o receive_v glory_n and_o honour_n and_o power_n now_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o follow_v upon_o the_o soul_n vision_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o do_v necessary_o produce_v this_o apprehension_n or_o estimation_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n 1._o upon_o the_o soul_n discovery_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o be_v lively_o enlarge_v act_n of_o love_n produce_v in_o the_o soul_n every_o renew_a vision_n of_o love_n inflame_v the_o believer_n heart_n with_o love_n again_o correspondent_o now_o from_o those_o quicken_v and_o enlarge_v act_n of_o love_n do_v arise_v necessary_o high_a estimation_n and_o glorious_a conception_n of_o the_o majesty_n god_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v he_o infinite_o to_o receive_v honour_n and_o glory_n for_o ever_o 2._o upon_o the_o soul_n discern_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o follow_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o follow_v a_o apprehension_n of_o the_o soul_n owe_v all_o that_o he_o be_v and_o enjoy_v unto_o god_n by_o way_n of_o retribution_n now_o from_o a_o soul_n apprehension_n that_o he_o owe_v more_o than_o he_o be_v or_o have_v unto_o god_n he_o conceive_v he_o infinite_o worthy_a to_o receive_v honour_n and_o glory_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o from_o all_o the_o creation_n he_o himself_o can_v never_o render_v glory_n sufficient_a therefore_o he_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v but_o equal_a that_o the_o whole_a creation_n shall_v join_v together_o to_o exalt_v this_o bless_a majesty_n iii_o the_o three_o act_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v be_v a_o sensible_a apprehension_n of_o the_o dispicableness_n worthlesness_n and_o nothingness_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o all_o that_o the_o circumference_n of_o the_o earth_n afford_v without_o god_n and_o in_o comparison_n of_o god_n now_o this_o god-exalting_a act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v also_o the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o such_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n then_o indeed_o be_v the_o soul_n a_o worm_n and_o no_o man_n then_o be_v he_o empty_a and_o poor_a yea_o absolute_o nothing_o without_o communion_n with_o that_o his_o god_n yea_o then_o be_v all_o the_o creation_n but_o mere_a shadow_n fly_v vanity_n without_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n then_o do_v the_o quintessence_n of_o all_o the_o beauty_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n if_o it_o can_v be_v abstract_v appear_v but_o as_o the_o drop_n of_o the_o bucket_n as_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n yea_o as_o vanity_n without_o that_o god_n in_o christ_n thus_o in_o psal_n 8.4_o upon_o the_o psalmist_n apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a glory_n of_o god_n he_o immediate_o cry_v out_o into_o admiration_n of_o the_o nothingness_n of_o man_n lord_z what_o be_v man_n iv_o the_o four_o act_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n wherein_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v be_v the_o soul_n actual_a prostration_n or_o subjection_n of_o all_o its_o power_n and_o possibility_n at_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o lord_n glorious_a majesty_n now_o this_o precious_a god_n sanctify_v act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v the_o
necessary_a infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o the_o father_n of_o light_n into_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n indeed_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o such_o a_o discovery_n to_o a_o believe_a soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n precede_v the_o sweet_a act_n of_o subjection_n of_o himself_o whole_o at_o the_o foot_n of_o god_n 1._o in_o regard_n then_o when_o such_o a_o light_n shine_v into_o the_o soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v a_o infinite_a disproportion_n between_o that_o which_o he_o owe_v to_o god_n and_o his_o ability_n and_o capacity_n to_o pay_v to_o he_o he_o apprehend_v man_n and_o angel_n be_v never_o sufficient_a to_o render_v to_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o benefit_n bestow_v upon_o his_o loveless_a soul_n 2_o it_o appear_v to_o that_o soul_n while_o there_o be_v such_o a_o discovery_n of_o that_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o infinite_a injury_n to_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o a_o thought_n of_o his_o heart_n shall_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o his_o bless_a will_n the_o heart_n say_v within_o itself_o so_o sweet_o have_v the_o lord_n pass_v over_o himself_o and_o all_o his_o fullness_n to_o this_o empty_a loveless_a soul_n of_o i_o that_o it_o be_v such_o a_o accurse_a requital_n as_o may_v incense_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v incomplacable_a shall_v my_o heart_n be_v withhold_v from_o give_v one_o subjection_n to_o he_o that_o thence_o the_o soul_n be_v constrain_v by_o a_o irresistble_a power_n by_o ineffable_a band_n of_o love_n to_o yield_v all_o precious_a subjection_n to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n v._o the_o five_o and_o last_o act_n that_o must_v concur_v together_o with_o all_o the_o four_o former_a to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v the_o soul_n take_v up_o a_o full_a acquiescense_n or_o rest_n and_o contentment_n in_o god_n alone_o it_o be_v a_o infinite_a unspeakable_a injury_n to_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o one_o desire_n one_o inclination_n in_o the_o heart_n shall_v be_v a_o vagrant_a to_o wander_v hither_o and_o thither_o to_o seek_v for_o its_o satisfaction_n out_o of_o god_n now_o this_o precious_a god-exalting_a act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v necessary_o certain_o and_o infallible_o produce_v by_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thus_o you_o shall_v observe_v it_o be_v in_o david_n psal_n 63.3_o 4_o 5._o thy_o love_a kindness_n be_v better_a than_o life_n my_o soul_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v as_o with_o marrow_n and_o fatness_n it_o shall_v be_v contentment_n enough_o for_o he_o to_o enjoy_v his_o love_n only_o thus_o these_o five_o act_n which_o concur_v together_o to_o the_o exalt_v of_o the_o lord_n bless_a name_n be_v all_o the_o necessary_a and_o certain_a effect_n of_o a_o true_a beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v to_o it_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o whatever_o soul_n be_v partaker_n of_o such_o a_o bless_a beam_n of_o the_o light_n of_o heaven_n as_o do_v true_o discover_v from_o god_n to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n he_o have_v these_o precious_a god-exalting_a act_n necessary_o produce_v in_o his_o soul_n whereby_o that_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o his_o soul_n discover_v itself_o to_o have_v its_o original_n from_o god_n there_o be_v a_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o great_a end_n of_o god_n from_o eternity_n from_o whence_o a_o soul_n that_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v satisfy_v evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n may_v gather_v another_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o that_o be_v the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o those_o believe_a soul_n this_o be_v that_o you_o read_v of_o eph._n 1.4_o 5._o he_o have_v choose_v we_o in_o christ_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v holy_a have_v predestinate_v we_o unto_o the_o adoption_n of_o child_n through_o jesus_n christ_n to_o himself_o to_o the_o praise_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o grace_n that_o be_v to_o the_o end_n that_o his_o glorious_a love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n may_v be_v make_v manifest_a through_o we_o to_o give_v praise_n to_o the_o lord_n to_o declare_v the_o excellency_n of_o god_n to_o publish_v and_o tell_v abroad_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n now_o the_o very_a end_n unto_o which_o god_n predestinate_v believe_v soul_n be_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o end_n they_o shall_v be_v like_o silver_n trumpet_n to_o sound_v aloud_o and_o proclaim_v his_o glory_n so_o that_o then_o this_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o god_n from_o eternity_n in_o his_o love_n to_o believe_v soul_n that_o they_o may_v be_v like_o so_o many_o golden_a pillar_n whereupon_o the_o lord_n may_v write_v the_o glorious_a excellency_n of_o his_o love_n in_o great_a character_n that_o other_o may_v read_v it_o thence_o of_o necessity_n this_o must_v be_v the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n in_o some_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n communication_n of_o love_n unto_o believe_v soul_n all_o the_o working_n of_o his_o love_n necessary_o tend_v in_o order_n to_o their_o ultimate_a end_n so_o that_o then_o a_o second_o reason_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n may_v demonstrate_v to_o himself_o that_o the_o light_n that_o himself_o have_v receive_v to_o discover_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v real_o from_o god_n be_v this_o that_o the_o precious_a light_n that_o shine_v into_o his_o dark_a soul_n to_o reveal_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v necessary_o and_o certain_o effect_v the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o he_o now_o that_o exaltation_n of_o god_n consist_v only_o in_o this_o in_o the_o soul_n declare_v or_o manifest_v the_o brightness_n and_o perfection_n of_o those_o excellency_n to_o be_v in_o god_n that_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o he_o in_o his_o precious_a word_n but_o herein_o we_o must_v descend_v down_o into_o particular_n first_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o brightness_n the_o lustre_n the_o perfection_n that_o the_o lord_n discover_v in_o that_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n be_v manifest_v through_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o make_v conspicuous_a before_o other_o by_o the_o believe_a soul_n thence_o it_o be_v you_o shall_v observe_v in_o psal_n 50.23_o say_v god_n who_o so_o offer_v praise_n glorifi_v i_o now_o the_o offering_n praise_n be_v nothing_o else_o take_v strict_o but_o a_o sincere_a humble_a declaration_n of_o the_o glorious_a working_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v and_o mercy_n to_o poor_a despicable_a worm_n it_o be_v but_o a_o publish_n the_o glorious_a work_n of_o god_n and_o speak_v of_o the_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n thence_o in_o isa_n 43.7_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o god_n be_v say_v to_o be_v create_v for_o the_o lord_n glory_n which_o they_o accomplish_v by_o show_v forth_o his_o praise_n v._o 21._o it_o be_v by_o make_v manifest_a what_o the_o excellency_n of_o god_n in_o himself_o be_v now_o than_o god_n be_v exalt_v in_o a_o believe_a soul_n when_o the_o excellency_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n reveal_v to_o sinner_n be_v make_v manifest_a through_o the_o soul_n this_o be_v do_v three_o way_n 1._o when_o the_o soul_n do_v give_v a_o real_a practical_a testimony_n to_o the_o fullness_n and_o perfection_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o a_o unlovely_a sinner_n now_o this_o the_o believe_a soul_n do_v practical_o declare_v in_o four_o or_o five_o thing_n first_o by_o rejoice_v full_o and_o glorious_o in_o that_o love_n when_o the_o heart_n can_v rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n in_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n then_o be_v the_o bless_a name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o soul_n than_o declare_v practical_o and_o give_v a_o real_a testimony_n to_o other_o believe_a soul_n and_o to_o the_o world_n too_o that_o the_o bless_a god_n of_o heaven_n be_v true_a that_o his_o love_n be_v according_a to_o what_o he_o declare_v in_o his_o bless_a word_n that_o his_o love_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n contain_v all_o kind_n of_o happiness_n contentment_n glory_n and_o excellency_n that_o be_v desirable_a by_o a_o believe_a soul_n so_o far_o as_o be_v suitable_a for_o he_o second_o when_o the_o soul_n can_v despise_v and_o disregard_n all_o kind_n of_o difficulty_n whatsoever_o for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o sweet_a fruit_n and_o work_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o
the_o lord_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n must_v necessary_o thus_o crucify_v the_o heart_n to_o all_o thing_n so_o as_o to_o be_v alive_a to_o god_n in_o christ_n only_o both_o in_o regard_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o doleful_a sinful_a miscarriage_n of_o his_o heart_n about_o every_o of_o those_o thing_n what_o sad_a snare_n they_o be_v to_o his_o spirit_n and_o also_o he_o behold_v the_o emptiness_n and_o nothingness_n by_o compare_v thing_n temporal_a with_o thing_n eternal_a and_o he_o behold_v a_o full_a object_n of_o all_o contentment_n wherein_o all_o the_o desire_n of_o his_o soul_n may_v be_v concern_v together_o in_o one_o wherein_o be_v all_o happiness_n that_o his_o spirit_n can_v breathe_v after_o and_o he_o may_v bless_v himself_o in_o the_o full_a enjoyment_n of_o it_o v._o the_o five_o mean_n whereby_o the_o soul_n experimental_o manifest_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o he_o be_v the_o fullness_n of_o contentment_n that_o the_o soul_n take_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n only_o in_o the_o absence_n of_o all_o thing_n else_o now_o even_o this_o also_o be_v produce_v by_o such_o a_o light_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yea_o so_o powerful_a be_v this_o contentment_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o all_o thing_n else_o effect_v by_o such_o a_o light_n of_o heaven_n discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o soul_n while_o the_o beauty_n and_o lustre_n of_o that_o light_n remain_v take_v not_o only_o its_o full_a contentment_n but_o even_o more_o than_o contentment_n even_o glory_v in_o his_o god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o want_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o you_o may_v see_v rom._n 5.1_o 2._o be_v justify_v hy_z faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o we_o glory_n in_o tribulation_n also_o we_o glory_v that_o be_v we_o make_v our_o boast_n of_o god_n we_o bless_v ourselves_o in_o he_o we_o be_v able_a to_o set_v the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o opposition_n to_o all_o thing_n else_o and_o even_o in_o tribulation_n themselves_o to_o triumph_v and_o glory_n to_o conceive_v ourselves_o so_o fill_v with_o excellence_n that_o we_o even_o boast_v ourselves_o of_o he_o so_o that_o thus_o all_o those_o precious_a act_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n whereby_o he_o declare_v and_o manifest_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n by_o that_o mean_n all_o those_o act_n be_v necessary_o and_o infallible_o produce_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o light_n from_o heaven_n that_o do_v discover_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o so_o it_o appear_v that_o this_o may_v be_v a_o second_o reason_n from_o whence_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v prove_v that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n because_o it_o cause_v the_o name_n of_o god_n to_o be_v exalt_v through_o he_o thus_o we_o have_v open_v the_o first_o way_n of_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n of_o that_o glorious_a love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n that_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o that_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v that_o unspeakable_a fullness_n to_o be_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o despicable_a sinner_n that_o all_o perfection_n and_o glorious_a excellency_n whatever_o that_o can_v be_v suitable_a to_o a_o soul_n be_v complete_o contain_v in_o it_o 2._o second_o a_o soul_n do_v manifest_v that_o glorious_a love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n which_o god_n have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o unto_o despicable_a sinner_n by_o discover_v or_o manifest_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n to_o be_v in_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n as_o nothing_o can_v prevent_v and_o hinder_v or_o turn_v away_o that_o love_n when_o a_o soul_n shall_v declare_v that_o the_o infinite_a multitude_n of_o wickedness_n that_o his_o soul_n heap_v up_o before_o his_o knowledge_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o all_o the_o infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n that_o abound_v in_o his_o soul_n now_o yet_o be_v no_o hindrance_n to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o his_o unlovely_a soul_n yea_o when_o the_o soul_n shall_v triumph_v against_o imperfection_n as_o paul_n do_v against_o tribulation_n and_o say_v apparent_o who_o shall_v separate_v this_o loathsome_a soul_n of_o i_o from_o that_o precious_a love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n shall_v my_o deadness_n hardness_n vanity_n looseness_n shall_v my_o stubborn_a opposite_a backslide_a disposition_n my_o hopocritical_a false_a treacherous_a disposition_n separate_v this_o loveless_a soul_n of_o i_o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n nay_o in_o all_o these_o infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o jesus_n christ_n never_o cease_v its_o work_n nay_o so_o glorious_a be_v the_o freedom_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o it_o break_v through_o all_o such_o opposition_n as_o my_o vile_a heart_n make_v against_o it_o then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n through_o the_o soul_n thus_o do_v paul_n exalt_v god_n when_o he_o have_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o in_o he_o that_o be_v in_o his_o flesh_n dwell_v no_o good_a thing_n rom._n 7.8_o that_o not_o a_o spark_n not_o a_o disposition_n not_o a_o inclination_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n dwell_v in_o he_o and_o declare_v the_o mighty_a operation_n of_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n which_o be_v the_o curse_a disposition_n of_o his_o heart_n against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n which_o be_v the_o bless_a disposition_n in_o his_o heart_n to_o comply_v with_o god_n when_o thus_o i_o say_v he_o declare_v that_o the_o law_n that_o be_v in_o his_o member_n be_v so_o full_a of_o power_n and_o might_n that_o it_o maintain_v a_o strong_a battle_n against_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o that_o it_o wound_v he_o and_o make_v he_o a_o slave_n and_o vassal_n to_o that_o curse_a disposition_n yet_o than_o he_o exalt_v god_n by_o this_o occasion_n break_v out_o thus_o rom._n 8.1_o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n mark_v that_o word_n now_o now_o see_v the_o vile_a rebellious_a disposition_n of_o my_o vile_a heart_n can_v turn_v away_o the_o working_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a love_n now_o see_v though_o my_o heart_n maintain_v war_n against_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o such_o war_n as_o lead_v my_o soul_n captive_a also_o and_o even_o enslave_v and_o enthrall_v and_o vassalage_v i_o under_o the_o power_n of_o sin_n though_o it_o be_v thus_o yet_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n can_v never_o cease_v it_o working_n he_o thus_o declare_v to_o the_o whole_a world_n in_o a_o kind_n of_o triumph_v way_n that_o the_o freedom_n of_o god_n love_n be_v so_o absolute_a and_o perfect_a that_o even_o now_o though_o there_o be_v such_o opposition_n make_v against_o the_o working_n of_o it_o by_o the_o vile_a crooked_a heart_n yet_o there_o can_v never_o be_v a_o turn_n away_o of_o that_o love_n never_o a_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n draw_v out_o by_o god_n against_o any_o soul_n that_o accept_v that_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n this_o manifestation_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o freedom_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o nothing_o can_v prevent_v and_o turn_v away_o that_o love_n from_o any_o soul_n that_o embrace_v it_o this_o be_v manifest_v three_o way_n through_o which_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n 1._o this_o be_v manifest_v by_o the_o soul_n sensible_a free_a acknowledgement_n of_o its_o abhor_a vileness_n and_o loathsomeness_n when_o the_o lord_n tender_v his_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o it_o yea_o when_o the_o lord_n receive_v his_o unlovely_a soul_n into_o the_o dear_a sweet_a embrace_n of_o his_o love_n when_o the_o soul_n shall_v ready_o and_o free_o declare_v nothing_o but_o enmity_n opposition_n contradiction_n to_o the_o bless_a god_n of_o heaven_n to_o have_v be_v in_o his_o vile_a heart_n when_o that_o bless_a news_n come_v down_o from_o heaven_n to_o his_o hopeless_a soul_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v ready_a and_o willing_a to_o admit_v of_o reconciliation_n peace_n and_o agreement_n and_o love_n to_o be_v between_o his_o soul_n and_o himself_o this_o indeed_o be_v a_o high_a exaltation_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n
in_o respect_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o his_o love_n that_o he_o reveal_v to_o be_v in_o himself_o to_o such_o unlovely_a sinner_n when_o thus_o the_o soul_n shall_v declare_v to_o the_o everlasting_a honour_n of_o god_n that_o true_a and_o faithful_a be_v his_o word_n he_o love_v upon_o his_o own_o will_v only_o and_o show_v mercy_n to_o who_o he_o will_v and_o because_o he_o will_n and_o thence_o you_o may_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v a_o high_a dishonour_n to_o the_o name_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n for_o any_o soul_n to_o make_v any_o claim_n to_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o any_o quality_n or_o disposition_n whatever_o that_o be_v in_o their_o own_o soul_n whereby_o they_o be_v difference_v as_o they_o conceive_v from_o other_o soul_n and_o they_o have_v right_a to_o claim_v that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n when_o other_o soul_n may_v not_o claim_v it_o this_o be_v a_o pollution_n of_o the_o name_n of_o god_n by_o its_o vilify_n the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o freedom_n in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n 2._o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o god_n through_o the_o soul_n be_v by_o the_o soul_n unwavering_a unshaken_a confidence_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o his_o word_n to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o sweet_a bosom_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o loathsomeness_n and_o forlornness_n of_o the_o worthless_a soul_n when_o the_o soul_n manifest_v his_o confidence_n in_o that_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n say_v with_o paul_n 2._o tim._n 1.12_o i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v trust_v notwithstanding_o all_o this_o the_o wretched_a and_o most_o accurse_a wickedness_n of_o my_o vile_a heart_n i_o know_v he_o be_v true_a and_o faithful_a he_o will_v let_v his_o love_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n work_n according_a as_o he_o have_v discover_v it_o free_o from_o the_o disposition_n of_o his_o own_o will_v only_o notwithstanding_o all_o my_o wickedness_n and_o mark_v it_o iâ—_n this_o one_o of_o the_o prime_a reason_n why_o jesus_n christ_n in_o that_o pattern_n of_o all_o prayer_n that_o he_o have_v free_o give_v we_o common_o call_v the_o lord_n prayer_n have_v command_v all_o soul_n and_o so_o believe_v soul_n to_o pray_v constant_o for_o forgiveness_n of_o their_o trespass_n for_o pardon_v of_o sin_n because_o through_o that_o act_n perform_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v constant_o exalt_v through_o the_o believe_a soul_n i_o do_v believe_v that_o plead_n for_o pardon_n of_o sin_n by_o believe_a soul_n be_v much_o mistake_v some_o soul_n dark_o and_o blind_o i_o have_v like_a to_o have_v say_v superstitious_o plead_v for_o the_o use_n of_o those_o 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must_v concur_v together_o for_o the_o make_n of_o that_o request_n the_o first_o be_v a_o remember_v the_o lord_n of_o his_o precious_a promise_n wherein_o he_o offer_v reconciliation_n peace_n and_o love_n in_o christ_n to_o the_o sinful_a despicable_a soul_n there_o must_v be_v in_o the_o thought_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n make_v the_o request_n aright_o a_o actual_a apprehension_n that_o god_n have_v offer_v unto_o his_o soul_n reconcliation_n by_o christ_n and_o so_o remission_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n free_o by_o christ_n and_o questionless_a there_o ought_v to_o be_v some_o declare_v of_o that_o promise_n also_o before_o the_o lord_n though_o sometime_o more_o brief_o sometime_o more_o large_o sometime_o in_o one_o manner_n sometime_o in_o another_o yet_o a_o remember_v of_o the_o lord_n of_o that_o his_o precious_a word_n second_o there_o must_v be_v a_o sincere_a desire_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o heart_n and_o mind_n may_v consent_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n as_o speak_v to_o his_o particular_a soul_n and_o consequent_o a_o desire_n to_o trust_v to_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o fulfil_v that_o his_o precious_a word_n even_o to_o his_o particular_a soul_n full_o so_o that_o the_o soul_n that_o present_v the_o request_n a_o right_n must_v upon_o the_o apprehension_n of_o his_o own_o most_o accurse_a vileness_n turn_v his_o eye_n to_o that_o sweet_a tender_n of_o reconciliation_n and_o peace_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n say_v secret_o at_o least_o o_o lord_n thou_o have_v speak_v it_o that_o thy_o will_n be_v to_o remit_v the_o sin_n to_o pass_v by_o the_o enmity_n of_o every_o rebellious_a soul_n that_o will_v accept_v the_o reconciliation_n thou_o do_v tender_a in_o christ_n and_o then_o the_o heart_n must_v proceed_v far_o say_v o_o lord_n see_v thou_o have_v speak_v it_o fulfil_v that_o thy_o word_n to_o this_o rebellious_a sinful_a soul_n of_o i_o my_o soul_n desire_v to_o trust_v to_o thy_o truth_n to_o fulfil_v it_o o_o let_v it_o be_v fulfil_v let_v that_o enmity_n be_v remove_v and_o that_o reconciliation_n be_v establish_v between_o thou_o and_o my_o soul_n 3._o the_o three_o way_n of_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o freedom_n that_o be_v in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o despicable_a sinner_n by_o which_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n be_v by_o the_o soul_n maintain_v the_o same_o confidence_n of_o he_o in_o the_o lord_n truth_n to_o vouchsafe_v to_o be_v in_o love_n with_o his_o unlovely_a soul_n through_o christ_n notwithstanding_o all_o infirmity_n weakness_n imperfection_n and_o perverse_a crookedness_n that_o his_o heart_n shall_v discern_v a_o fresh_a to_o be_v in_o himself_o now_o when_o the_o soul_n after_o humble_a acknowledgement_n of_o those_o curse_a disposition_n in_o his_o corrupt_a heart_n shall_v still_o act_v and_o manifest_v that_o precious_a confidence_n then_o do_v the_o soul_n give_v glory_n to_o the_o lord_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o freedom_n that_o be_v in_o his_o love_n then_o do_v the_o soul_n declare_v that_o nothing_o can_v turn_v away_o or_o cause_n to_o cease_v the_o working_n oâ—_n that_o infinite_a free_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n than_o the_o soul_n declare_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v build_v upon_o no_o other_o foundation_n but_o his_o precious_a will_n and_o that_o it_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v lovely_a and_o amiable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n that_o ever_o incline_v the_o heart_n of_o god_n to_o six_o his_o love_n upon_o the_o soul_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a thence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o soul_n pollute_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o before_o other_o also_o who_o confidence_n shake_v and_o waver_v upon_o the_o sight_n of_o every_o new_a infirmity_n and_o imperfection_n who_o confidence_n be_v cast_v away_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o every_o new_a crooked_a disposition_n work_v in_o their_o heart_n upon_o every_o disposition_n to_o deadness_n vanity_n looseness_n by_o this_o they_o vail_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o freedom_n of_o love_n that_o be_v in_o god_n through_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n and_o declare_v in_o effect_n the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o foul_a towards_o god_n yea_o the_o soul_n declare_v in_o effect_n virtual_o at_o least_o that_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v that_o be_v in_o christ_n increase_n and_o diminish_v according_a to_o the_o holiness_n or_o unholiness_n that_o he_o discern_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n hence_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v believe_v foul_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o christ_n intercession_n to_o come_v bold_o to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n heb._n 4.15.16_o that_o the_o
worthless_a unlovely_a sinner_n by_o manifest_v such_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o sinful_a soul_n as_o that_o love_n be_v subject_a to_o no_o variation_n alteration_n or_o shadow_n change_n when_o the_o soul_n so_o walk_v as_o he_o declare_v practical_o that_o the_o rich_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o unworthy_a soul_n be_v the_o same_o yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n and_o the_o same_o for_o ever_o the_o foundation_n thereof_o stand_v firm_a and_o unmoveable_a like_a mount_n zion_n that_o can_v be_v move_v then_o do_v the_o brightness_n of_o the_o lord_n glorious_a love_n shine_v through_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o it_o thus_o god_n glorify_v himself_o before_o the_o eye_n of_o balak_n through_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o false_a prophet_n balaam_n to_o give_v testimony_n to_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o people_n israel_n by_o send_v that_o message_n to_o balaam_n numb_a 23.19_o god_n be_v not_o a_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v lie_v neither_o the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v repent_v that_o be_v not_o like_o the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o his_o thought_n shall_v change_v what_o he_o have_v speak_v shall_v it_o not_o come_v to_o pass_v his_o word_n concern_v his_o people_n shall_v certain_o be_v fulfil_v so_o likewise_o when_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o prophet_n malachi_n intend_v to_o lift_v up_o his_o name_n in_o his_o people_n heart_n mal._n 3.6_o he_o discover_v to_o they_o his_o precious_a thought_n of_o love_n concern_v they_o in_o declare_v the_o come_n of_o jesus_n christ_n with_o the_o bless_a effect_n of_o it_o and_o say_v he_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n i_o change_v not_o therefore_o the_o son_n of_o jacob_n be_v not_o consume_v so_o the_o church_n exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n by_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o his_o love_n to_o she_o lament_v 3.22.22_o it_o be_v of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n that_o we_o be_v not_o consume_v because_o his_o compassion_n fail_v not_o now_o a_o soul_n manifest_v the_o unchangeableness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o his_o unworthy_a soul_n by_o its_o constancy_n and_o unmoveableness_n in_o that_o precious_a confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v once_o raise_v in_o his_o heart_n by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o doubtless_o it_o be_v for_o that_o end_n that_o believe_v soul_n may_v thus_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o his_o love_n towards_o they_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v prepare_v unchangeable_a ground_n unmoveable_a rock_n for_o the_o foot_n of_o their_o faith_n to_o stand_v upon_o he_o have_v add_v his_o oath_n to_o his_o word_n heb._n 6.17_o 18._o that_o by_o two_o immutable_a thing_n by_o which_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o god_n shall_v lie_v they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n that_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n tender_v it_o be_v for_o this_o end_n that_o he_o have_v give_v those_o unchangeable_a ground_n for_o faith_n to_o build_v upon_o 1._o that_o those_o eclipse_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n love_n in_o christ_n in_o its_o unchangeableness_n by_o the_o constancy_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n may_v be_v prevent_v sure_o it_o be_v the_o bowel_n of_o the_o compassion_n of_o our_o tender_a god_n in_o christ_n that_o wrought_v towards_o the_o unlovely_a soul_n that_o cause_v he_o to_o stoop_v down_o so_o low_a as_o to_o add_v a_o oath_n to_o his_o word_n which_o give_v no_o security_n in_o itself_o to_o a_o soul_n more_o but_o only_o a_o full_a security_n to_o our_o unbelieve_a heart_n in_o our_o low_a apprehension_n of_o god_n that_o thereby_o the_o precious_a consolation_n of_o his_o people_n may_v not_o change_v and_o it_o be_v the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o god_n in_o the_o working_n of_o those_o compassion_n that_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o own_o love_n may_v not_o be_v veil_v by_o the_o unconstancy_n and_o fickleness_n of_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n so_o as_o soul_n shall_v declare_v by_o believe_v when_o their_o heart_n be_v fill_v with_o holy_a act_n that_o there_o be_v a_o glorious_a love_n in_o god_n through_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n and_o when_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o liveliness_n of_o those_o holy_a act_n in_o their_o heart_n shall_v cease_v that_o then_o they_o shall_v again_o declare_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v withdraw_v again_o from_o they_o 2._o that_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o love_n in_o its_o unchangeableness_n may_v shine_v forth_o in_o its_o brightness_n with_o transparent_a glory_n so_o as_o the_o soul_n under_o the_o sad_a defect_n of_o holy_a act_n and_o working_n in_o his_o own_o heart_n may_v still_o declare_v the_o precious_a love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o his_o unlovely_a to_o be_v the_o same_o sound_v upon_o his_o own_o will_v only_o which_o can_v never_o be_v move_v the_o constancy_n and_o unmoveableness_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o his_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n beget_v be_v always_o the_o effect_n of_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o heaven_n to_o reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n so_o long_o as_o the_o light_n continue_v shine_v into_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o lustre_n and_o glory_n this_o you_o may_v observe_v of_o paul_n in_o 2_o cor._n 5.5_o 6._o have_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n what_o then_o we_o be_v always_o confident_a of_o everlasting_a communion_n with_o god_n that_o be_v we_o be_v confident_a at_o all_o time_n constant_o our_o confidence_n be_v unmoveable_a yea_o doubtless_o see_v the_o spirit_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n shine_v into_o any_o soul_n be_v but_o a_o act_n of_o the_o conform_v office_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o can_v be_v but_o that_o light_a shine_a from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n to_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n must_v necessary_o establish_v the_o heart_n in_o that_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o so_o long_o as_o that_o light_n remain_v the_o confidence_n must_v remain_v also_o and_o that_o in_o its_o power_n and_o strength_n thus_o you_o have_v the_o first_o way_n open_v how_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o a_o soul_n which_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n bear_v testimony_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o record_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v to_o his_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v the_o same_o glory_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o sinful_a soul_n that_o god_n himself_o have_v reveal_v to_o be_v in_o he_o second_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o soul_n manifestation_n that_o a_o incomprehensible_a perfection_n of_o purity_n and_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o god_n god_n have_v reveal_v himself_o in_o his_o word_n not_o only_o to_o be_v holy_a but_o holiness_n itself_o amos_n 4.2_o the_o lord_n have_v swear_v by_o his_o holeness_n that_o be_v he_o have_v swear_v by_o himself_o he_o have_v discover_v such_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v in_o he_o that_o he_o have_v a_o absolute_a unspeakable_a abhorrency_n of_o all_o that_o be_v cross_a and_o contrary_a unto_o holiness_n in_o its_o perfection_n hab._n 1.13_o yea_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o he_o exod._n 15.11_o now_o then_o be_v the_o name_n of_o god_n exalt_v through_o a_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n conceive_v of_o god_n as_o thus_o excellent_a and_o wonderful_a in_o holiness_n when_o the_o soul_n declare_v before_o the_o world_n that_o his_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v purity_n and_o holiness_n itself_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o holy_a angel_n be_v say_v to_o cry_v to_o the_o lord_n holy_a holy_a be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n isa_n 6.3_o and_o also_o the_o office_n of_o the_o dispenser_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v describe_v rev._n 4.8_o 9_o by_o their_o cry_a night_n and_o day_n without_o cease_v holy_a holy_a holy_a lord_n god_n almighty_a it_o be_v for_o this_o reason_n because_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v when_o there_o be_v such_o manifestation_n and_o declaration_n of_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o dwell_v in_o god_n now_o a_o soul_n may_v manifest_v this_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n to_o dwell_v in_o god_n these_o three_o or_o four_o several_a way_n i._o by_o a_o precious_a sensible_a acknowledgement_n of_o a_o infinite_a disproportion_n and_o disagreement_n in_o his_o most_o holy_a exact_a exquisite_a action_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v most_o mighty_o assist_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v holy_a
be_v enough_o to_o cast_v they_o down_o into_o the_o everlasting_a lake_n of_o burn_a if_o the_o lord_n shall_v act_v in_o justice_n with_o they_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o jesus_n christ_n draw_v forth_o the_o sweet_a believe_v act_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o believer_n than_o they_o be_v most_o ready_a to_o accept_v of_o any_o chastisement_n that_o the_o lord_n inflict_v upon_o they_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o transgression_n lament_v 3.39_o so_o that_o thence_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o clear_a beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n reveal_v unto_o they_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v common_o most_v fill_v with_o acclamation_n against_o themselves_o and_o all_o their_o prayer_n fill_v with_o self-judging_n and_o abhorring_n yea_o likewise_o hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o believe_v soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v fill_v with_o those_o high_a admiration_n and_o that_o their_o soul_n conceive_v of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o they_o as_o a_o mystery_n unsearchable_a past_o find_v out_o either_o by_o man_n or_o angel_n because_o than_o they_o apprehend_v the_o infinite_a worthiness_n of_o those_o thousand_o and_o ten_o thousand_o and_o million_o of_o iniquity_n that_o they_o have_v commit_v to_o incense_v the_o anger_n of_o the_o lord_n against_o their_o soul_n yea_o likewise_o hence_o also_o proceed_v those_o enlarge_a desire_n after_o the_o sweet_a melt_n of_o heart_n for_o sin_n from_o those_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v certain_o evidence_v their_o union_n with_o he_o but_o as_o the_o scripture_n testify_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o so_o reason_n testify_v that_o there_o can_v but_o be_v a_o connexion_n between_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o worthiness_n for_o the_o least_o transgression_n to_o be_v punish_v with_o everlasting_a 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manifestation_n of_o the_o infinite_a equity_n of_o a_o perfect_a subjection_n to_o be_v give_v by_o every_o soul_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n from_o thence_o there_o be_v necessary_o such_o deep_a apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a injustice_n and_o unsearchable_a depth_n of_o unrighteousness_n and_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o the_o least_o contradict_v that_o bless_a will_n that_o the_o soul_n conceive_v every_o such_o transgression_n or_o disobedience_n to_o that_o bless_a will_n to_o be_v infinite_o worthy_a to_o be_v punish_v with_o infinite_a and_o everlasting_a indignation_n 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n do_v declare_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o goodness_n in_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n so_o as_o it_o manifest_v every_o motion_n of_o that_o will_v to_o be_v absolute_o transcendent_o good_a when_o the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_v unto_o any_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n it_o represent_v god_n only_o as_o a_o mass_n of_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n it_o represent_v god_n will_v all_o kind_n and_o degree_n of_o good_a unto_o every_o soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o and_o thence_o every_o act_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n be_v represent_v to_o the_o soul_n as_o absolute_o good_a now_o by_o that_o mean_v every_o transgression_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v represent_v as_o in_o opposition_n to_o infinite_a goodness_n and_o thence_o every_o transgression_n can_v but_o be_v apprehend_v as_o a_o just_a occasion_n for_o infinite_a wrath_n and_o indignation_n to_o burn_v in_o its_o fierceness_n and_o extremity_n against_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v necessary_o occasion_v the_o soul_n to_o declare_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n that_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n cause_v any_o soul_n to_o participate_v in_o some_o degree_n of_o his_o holiness_n this_o the_o apostle_n testify_v in_o 2._o cor._n 3.18_o that_o while_o they_o do_v with_o open-face_n behold_v as_o in_o a_o glass_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n they_o be_v change_v into_o the_o same_o in_o age_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n that_o be_v they_o be_v conform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o god_n while_o they_o see_v the_o beam_n of_o his_o excellency_n glitter_v upon_o they_o through_o the_o great_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o that_o gradual_o according_a as_o they_o behold_v the_o glory_n so_o they_o be_v change_v also_o by_o degree_n from_o glory_n unto_o glory_n from_o one_o degree_n of_o likeness_n unto_o god_n to_o another_o degree_n thus_o likewise_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1_o john_n 1.5_o 6._o that_o god_n be_v light_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o he_o be_v holiness_n itself_o pure_o holy_a nothing_o but_o holy_a and_o then_o bear_v witness_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o soul_n to_o have_v the_o least_o fellowship_n with_o he_o but_o we_o must_v be_v partaker_n of_o that_o holiness_n if_o we_o say_v that_o we_o have_v fellowship_n with_o he_o and_o walk_v in_o darkness_n we_o lie_v and_o do_v not_o the_o truth_n as_o if_o the_o apostle_n have_v speak_v in_o these_o word_n the_o lord_n be_v so_o infinite_o transcendent_o holy_a such_o a_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o he_o and_o a_o infinite_a averseness_n to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v unholy_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a any_o soul_n shall_v dwell_v with_o he_o but_o he_o must_v participate_v of_o his_o holiness_n so_o in_o 1_o john_n 2.6_o he_o that_o say_v he_o abide_v in_o he_o ought_v himself_o also_o to_o walk_v even_o as_o he_o walk_v so_o likewise_o he_o testify_v the_o same_o thing_n again_o in_o 1_o john_n 3._o 6._o whosoever_o abide_v in_o he_o that_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o sin_v not_o that_o be_v he_o sin_v not_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n that_o he_o sin_v before_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v other_o disposition_n infuse_v into_o his_o heart_n there_o be_v some_o drop_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n communicate_v to_o his_o soul_n through_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n whosoever_o sin_v have_v not_o see_v he_o neither_o know_v he_o that_o be_v whoever_o sin_n in_o the_o same_o manner_n that_o he_o do_v when_o he_o be_v void_a of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n void_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o whatever_o he_o profess_v he_o have_v not_o the_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o join_v his_o heart_n to_o christ_n he_o never_o have_v the_o true_a vision_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o jesus_n christ_n he_o have_v not_o so_o see_v he_o whereby_o his_o soul_n be_v transform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o christ_n and_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o that_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n do_v necessary_o cause_v such_o a_o declaration_n that_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n cause_n the_o soul_n to_o participate_v of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n thence_o it_o be_v first_o that_o the_o sin_n and_o transgression_n of_o a_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v so_o intolerable_o burdensome_a this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n melt_v and_o break_v so_o sweet_o under_o the_o remembrance_n of_o any_o sin_n that_o they_o be_v confound_v in_o themselves_o that_o they_o loath_a and_o abhor_v themselves_o in_o regard_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v so_o eclipse_v and_o thence_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o own_o sin_n wound_v so_o deep_o because_o in_o effect_n he_o by_o sensual_a formal_a unworthy_a walk_n do_v declare_v that_o communion_n with_o god_n do_v not_o make_v he_o partaker_n
with_o the_o strength_n of_o my_o soul_n after_o the_o thing_n before_o after_o the_o height_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o full_a communion_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o holiness_n five_o he_o testify_v that_o he_o pass_v over_o or_o leap_v over_o all_o difficulty_n all_o impediment_n and_o hindrance_n in_o his_o strive_v after_o this_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o jesus_n christ_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n which_o be_v also_o contain_v in_o that_o he_o do_v profess_v towards_o the_o mark_n he_o do_v thrust_v through_o all_o troop_n of_o impediment_n that_o stand_v to_o oppose_v he_o in_o his_o way_n and_o with_o all_o the_o power_n and_o possibility_n of_o his_o soul_n extend_v make_v the_o pursuit_n after_o the_o full_a experience_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o likewise_o he_o hear_v witness_n that_o every_o sincere_a believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o this_o rule_n to_o be_v thus_o mind_v for_o 15._o let_v we_o therefore_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v that_o be_v let_v we_o thus_o count_v of_o ourselves_o to_o be_v infinite_o short_a of_o that_o which_o ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v our_o soul_n whatever_o degree_n of_o holiness_n we_o have_v apprehend_v and_o let_v we_o fix_v our_o eye_n single_o and_o constant_o upon_o the_o perfect_a holiness_n that_o soul_n attain_v to_o through_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n and_o let_v we_o forget_v all_o our_o labour_n and_o endeavour_n and_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o holiness_n that_o we_o have_v attaint_v to_o so_o as_o not_o to_o satisfy_v ourselves_o in_o that_o measure_n and_o degree_n and_o let_v we_o stretch_v out_o our_o arm_n after_o full_a communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o let_v we_o pass_v over_o all_o difficulty_n press_v towards_o the_o mark_n the_o fullness_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v which_o the_o lord_n have_v determine_v to_o bring_v beleiver_n to_o through_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n their_o mediator_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n likewise_o the_o apostle_n john_n testify_v as_o much_o in_o 1_o john_n 3.3_o every_o one_o that_o have_v this_o hope_n in_o he_o purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a mark_v what_o hope_n he_o speak_v of_o the_o second_o verse_n tell_v you_o say_v he_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o we_o know_v that_o when_o christ_n appear_v we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v so_o that_o the_o hope_n that_o he_o speak_v of_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o adoption_n the_o hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o first-born_a of_o all_o the_o elect_a one_o and_o the_o hope_n of_o their_o perfect_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o high_a heaven_n now_o mark_v what_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o hope_n be_v those_o that_o have_v receive_v this_o hope_n infuse_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o occasion_n the_o soul_n to_o purify_v themselves_o as_o jesus_n christ_n be_v pure_a that_o be_v all_o one_o as_o god_n the_o father_n be_v pure_a christ_n be_v but_o the_o express_a image_n of_o his_o father_n the_o apostle_n mean_v not_o that_o actual_o any_o soul_n have_v such_o a_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o spirit_n as_o produce_v that_o bless_a hope_n in_o he_o be_v actual_o purify_v according_a to_o purification_n of_o purity_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n but_o he_o mean_v that_o the_o soul_n into_o who_o this_o hope_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v infuse_v do_v desire_n breathe_v after_o long_o for_o endeavour_v with_o all_o the_o intention_n of_o his_o soul_n the_o same_o purity_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n satisfy_v his_o soul_n with_o no_o degree_n no_o measure_n less_o than_o the_o fullness_n of_o likeness_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o likewise_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v occasion_n the_o soul_n to_o declare_v that_o a_o conformity_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a satisfy_a object_n of_o the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n make_v the_o promise_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o motive_n unto_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o now_o if_o the_o very_o propound_v of_o the_o promise_n be_v that_o which_o excite_v a_o heart_n unto_o perfect_a holiness_n perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v then_o much_o more_o must_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n interest_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n necessary_o constrain_v a_o soul_n to_o pursue_v with_o all_o his_o strength_n after_o perfection_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v and_o to_o declare_v that_o no_o less_o than_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v perfect_o aught_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n and_o likewise_o it_o may_v be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n that_o he_o always_o make_v for_o believe_a soul_n which_o be_v for_o their_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v 1_o thes_n 5.23_o now_o the_o very_a god_n of_o peaee_n sanctify_v you_o whole_o in_o spirit_n soul_n and_o body_n and_o he_o pray_v that_o they_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n eph._n 4.19_o and_o as_o scripture_n thus_o testify_v that_o god_n be_v thus_o exalt_v in_o his_o holiness_n in_o any_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n do_v reveal_v its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n by_o that_o soul_n declare_v that_o a_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v perfect_o ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n so_o likewise_o the_o experience_n of_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n bear_v witness_n of_o the_o same_o i._o hence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o soul_n that_o enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v unsatisfy_v with_o their_o most_o holy_a duty_n and_o act_n of_o pure_a obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n so_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v always_o complain_v of_o imperfection_n and_o want_n in_o their_o most_o holy_a act_n and_o 1._o hence_o it_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v hear_v constant_o those_o precious_a soul_n complain_v with_o much_o bitterness_n of_o the_o narrowness_n and_o straitness_n of_o the_o work_n of_o their_o will_n in_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will._n 2._o you_o shall_v hear_v they_o always_o complain_v when_o assist_v most_o mighty_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n of_o their_o want_n of_o singleness_n of_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n in_o their_o will_n conform_v to_o the_o lord_n will_n 3._o they_o be_v constant_o complain_v of_o the_o want_n of_o liberty_n of_o spirit_n in_o the_o compliance_n of_o their_o will_n with_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n this_o david_n intimate_v when_o cry_n out_o 51.12_o restore_v to_o i_o the_o joy_n of_o thy_o salvation_n and_o establish_v i_o with_o thy_o free_a spirit_n he_o apprehend_v his_o spirit_n to_o be_v much_o under_o bondage_n and_o thraldom_n and_o with_o much_o earnestness_n he_o desire_v communion_n with_o god_n again_o 4._o hence_o those_o soul_n be_v always_o sad_o complain_v in_o their_o act_n of_o pure_a obedience_n of_o their_o want_n of_o fixedness_n and_o stability_n of_o the_o working_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o their_o will_n to_o comply_v with_o god_n will_n 5._o you_o shall_v hear_v they_o complain_v of_o the_o weakness_n and_o imperfection_n of_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o the_o most_o pure_a obedience_n that_o their_o soul_n render_v of_o the_o imperfection_n of_o their_o desire_n in_o prayer_n even_o when_o they_o be_v draw_v out_o by_o a_o mighty_a power_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n ii_o it_o be_v from_o hence_o also_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v perpetual_o groan_v after_o a_o full_a measure_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o what_o measure_n soever_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n be_v pour_v out_o upon_o they_o thus_o david_n often_o in_o the_o 119._o psalm_n beg_v for_o quicken_a which_o in_o a_o word_n be_v but_o this_o lord_n send_v down_o more_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n and_o holiness_n from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yea_o this_o you_o may_v observe_v from_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o great_a apostle_n paul_n rom_n 7._o how_o his_o soul_n groan_v after_o a_o large_a portion_n of_o the_o sanctify_a
spirit_n of_o christ_n complain_v to_o will_n be_v present_a with_o he_o but_o to_o do_v be_v not_o yet_o present_a that_o when_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n begin_v to_o work_v the_o law_n of_o the_o flesh_n oppose_v it_o by_o which_o complaint_n he_o do_v in_o effect_n but_o breath_n after_o a_o more_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o christ_n which_o may_v not_o only_o beget_v a_o compliance_n in_o his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n holy_a will_n but_o may_v also_o carry_v it_o forth_o to_o perfection_n that_o may_v cause_v his_o soul_n not_o only_o to_o bring_v forth_o the_o bud_n of_o holiness_n but_o the_o ripe_a fruit_n of_o it_o and_o his_o complaint_n be_v but_o the_o desire_v of_o a_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v the_o disposition_n infuse_v by_o the_o spirit_n may_v overcome_v the_o law_n of_o the_o member_n that_o be_v the_o corrupt_a disposition_n that_o be_v natural_o in_o he_o so_o that_o his_o soul_n may_v be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n over_o sin_n iii_o hence_o also_o it_o be_v that_o soul_n enjoin_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n be_v constant_o inquire_v into_o and_o search_v to_o find_v out_o the_o secret_a iniquity_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n that_o principle_n be_v firm_o root_v in_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n that_o discover_v to_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n oâ—_n any_o soul_n thence_o they_o be_v always_o conscious_a to_o themselves_o of_o a_o depth_n of_o wickedness_n that_o secret_o possess_v their_o heart_n they_o be_v search_v after_o the_o secret_a wickedness_n those_o veil_a and_o enclose_a iniquity_n that_o their_o heart_n will_v even_o lock_v up_o as_o it_o be_v in_o dark_a dungeon_n that_o the_o soul_n may_v never_o discern_v iv_o hence_o soul_n enjoin_v their_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v call_v in_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o heart_n search_v god_n to_o find_v out_o their_o iniquity_n for_o they_o according_a as_o you_o shall_v find_v david_n psal_n 139.23_o 24._o search_v i_o o_o god_n and_o know_v my_o heart_n try_v i_o and_o know_v my_o thought_n the_o holy_a man_n meaning_n be_v that_o the_o lord_n shall_v so_o search_v he_o as_o to_o make_v he_o understand_v his_o own_o heart_n and_o to_o know_v his_o own_o thought_n see_v if_o there_o be_v any_o wicked_a way_n in_o i_o and_o lead_v i_o in_o the_o way_n everlasting_a thus_o he_o cry_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n may_v pierce_v through_o his_o heart_n to_o discover_v all_o his_o wickedness_n and_o contrary_a walking_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o then_o god_n may_v send_v down_o a_o conquer_a power_n to_o deliver_v he_o from_o those_o corruption_n and_o lead_v he_o into_o the_o path_n of_o holiness_n that_o be_v into_o a_o full_a conformity_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n v._o hence_o it_o be_v that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v so_o delight_v with_o the_o precious_a heavenly_a light_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n in_o its_o discovery_n of_o the_o soul_n unholiness_n and_o in_o its_o discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n concern_v the_o soul_n sure_o it_o be_v from_o hence_o that_o david_n in_o psal_n 19.10_o be_v so_o delight_v with_o the_o lord_n word_n that_o he_o profess_v it_o be_v sweet_a than_o the_o honey_n and_o the_o honey_n comb_n to_o he_o because_o it_o reveal_v the_o precious_a will_n of_o god_n to_o he_o and_o discover_v his_o own_o heart_n to_o he_o and_o thence_o be_v a_o help_n to_o conform_v his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n that_o be_v the_o only_a satisfy_a object_n of_o his_o soul_n desire_n vi_o hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v so_o frequent_o breathe_v after_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n it_o be_v in_o regard_v their_o soul_n never_o attain_v the_o fullness_n of_o rest_n that_o satisfy_a object_n of_o their_o desire_n till_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n hence_o they_o groan_v be_v burden_v with_o iniquity_n and_o secret_o cry_v out_o o_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v worship_v of_o god_n pure_o when_o shall_v i_o be_v free_a from_o this_o body_n of_o sin_n and_o death_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o bless_a union_n of_o will_n between_o thou_o and_o i_o that_o this_o my_o vile_a corrupt_a will_n shall_v never_o oppose_v and_o contradict_v thy_o will_n more_o so_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a from_o experience_n that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v occasion_n the_o soul_n necessary_o to_o declare_v that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n yea_o likewise_o it_o be_v evident_a also_o from_o reason_n that_o the_o spirit_n discovery_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n do_v necessary_o cause_v the_o soul_n itself_o to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o no_o portion_n of_o holiness_n but_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n evidence_n of_o any_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n do_v cause_n the_o soul_n to_o discern_v clear_o that_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n and_o subjection_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v infinite_o due_a from_o every_o creature_n whenever_o that_o precious_a light_n shine_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n into_o the_o soul_n than_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o such_o high_a thought_n of_o the_o transcendency_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n be_v convince_v that_o every_o creature_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n owe_v absolute_a perfect_a subjection_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n now_o hence_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v satisfy_v with_o any_o degree_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v less_o than_o a_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o conformity_n and_o likewise_o hence_o the_o soul_n be_v constrain_v to_o declare_v that_o absolute_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v ought_v only_o to_o be_v the_o centre_n whereon_o the_o soul_n shall_v rest_v ii_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v cause_n the_o soul_n to_o apprehend_v so_o clear_o the_o ravish_a beauty_n and_o unspeakable_a lustre_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v that_o thence_o a_o full_a subjection_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o bless_a holy_a will_n appear_v as_o the_o high_a thing_n that_o can_v be_v desirable_a by_o any_o soul_n that_o sweet_a discovery_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n make_v the_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o be_v so_o clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n of_o love_n and_o make_v the_o soul_n apprehend_v such_o a_o height_n and_o depth_n and_o length_n and_o breadth_n of_o love_n to_o be_v in_o god_n towards_o forlorn_a unlovely_a sinner_n that_o thence_o the_o will_n of_o god_n appear_v in_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v so_o good_a towards_o poor_a sinner_n as_o the_o very_a beauty_n of_o it_o make_v a_o full_a conformity_n in_o that_o will_n in_o a_o manner_n infinite_o desire_v by_o the_o soul_n yea_o the_o soul_n be_v then_o so_o strong_o convince_v of_o the_o absolute_a goodness_n of_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o its_o motion_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n can_v take_v no_o rest_n nor_o contentment_n while_o his_o will_n disagree_v from_o that_o pure_a holy_a will_n that_o be_v so_o absolute_o good_a in_o all_o its_o motion_n iii_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v establish_v that_o bless_a principle_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o most_o superlative_a happiness_n of_o every_o soul_n consist_v in_o perfect_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o unity_n and_o community_n of_o will_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o spirit_n light_v cast_v into_o the_o dark_a soul_n to_o discover_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n the_o heavenly_a brightness_n and_o glitter_a resplendent_a glory_n of_o the_o lord_n goodness_n so_o shine_v round_o about_o the_o soul_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n discern_v clear_o that_o that_o the_o high_a and_o most_o supreme_a degree_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o any_o soul_n must_v necessary_o consist_v in_o the_o conjunction_n and_o communion_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o that_o infinite_a goodness_n in_o the_o soul_n near_o and_o large_a participation_n of_o it_o thence_o that_o bless_a principle_n be_v root_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o union_n and_o communion_n of_o