enchantment had fallen on men vvhat that could bee vvhich the more they sought to bear dovvn the more it increased that made the rich choose poverty and these vvho dwelt in palaces take themselves vvith chearfulnes to the dens and caves of the earth but besides this it is very manifest that in a large measure the spirit hath been let forth to the church in after ages yea there is no particular church vvhere the light hath shined but hath had it's special times some solemn day of the powring out of the spirit before the sun vvent down vvhich may be observed either at the first breaking up of the gospel or at some other remarkable time and change of her condition vvhence a great tack of souls to Christ hath follovved in a day vvherein an effectual doore vvas opened besides the reaching of the conscience and stirring the affection of many others under a common vvork of the spirit which usually goeth along vvith such solemn times 6 The going back of the tide and visible withdravving of the spirit from particular churches vvhere it hath sometime in a large measure been let forth is a very convincing vvitnes to the truth of this promise for it is clearly seen at vvhat a stand the gospel is in these places vvhere it most eminently shined that the land vvhich blossomed and vvas like a vvatered garden hath been made as the heath in the vvildernes and the ground from vvhence rain is vvithdravven and then that the ministers of Christ vvhose lot hath fallen in such a time are put to very sore vvork to vvorke as it vvere vvith oares for vvant of vvind to cast out the net all night and catch nothing a shut doore is upon them in the exercise of their Ministry duty is made Lurthensome because the Lord is against them there is an evident restraint upon the word and its intercourse is more with the ear then with the consciences of men yea any liberty they find is to execut a commission of judgement and to denounce the woe of the Gospel O doth not so manifest withdrawing of the spirit witnes the outletting thereof and that it is a certain and real thing 7. Doe not the stirrings and strange convictions which even the worst of men have sometimes under the word witnes a divine spirit and power going along therewith that which forceth an assent from their conscience to the truth which otherwayes they hate yea maketh them for the time wonder they should not have been more serious in the wayes of God yea it doth often put a thorn in the bed of their security for indeed the word and the light thereof doth torment these who dwell in the earth And truely this is a marvellous thing which winneth in uponm mens secret designes and councels doth reveal to them the most closs thoughts of their heart which they are sure mens eye could not reach taketh them down through themselves and yet that the world knoweth not whence it is yea are they not forced to confesse what a great difference they find betwixt the word from the mouth of some who are holy and serious though held out in greatest simplicity then from others even of greater gifts and accompanyed with more shew of eloquence that surely the one hath an other sound and relish speaketh more feelingly home to their heart then the most polished discourse of greatest oratours 8. One witnes moe I shall here give to the truth of this promise even these eminent examples of the grace of God which in every age have shined in the firmament of the Church some in love and zeal some in patience and humility some in the strong acts of faith and â—elf-denyal which doe certainly demonstrat a more excellent spirit then that which is in the world whence they appear with another lustre in their walk and carriage and have a sweet and fragant savour of the spirit to the very discerning of bystanders which truely sheweth that his wind doth blow on his garden when the spices send forth so pleasant a sent FOVRTH We find an expresse Promise in the word of Deliverance to the Church â—n a low and oppressed condition that surely the Lord will plead her cause will deliver his People when he seeth their strenght is gone and save them from the hands of their enemyes Ps 18 47 48 50. Ps 22 4 5. Is 54 17. Is 51 23. It is true this promise hath its bounds limits and provisions which should be taken along in the application thereof we know the Covenant of God with particular Churches is conditional only he promiseth that he will be with them while they are with him yea it is oft seen and there is no jarr here with this promise that a People professing the Gospel confederat with God following duty have even turned their back before the enemy and in the holy providence of God have for a time been given up to their fierce rage and violence but it is also sure that this promise hath an accomplishment and in the day of the Churches strait the Lord hath oft appeared by a strong outstretched hand for her help his own arm brought salvation to his People when they sought to him for God is known in her palaces for a refuge yea surely the Church might oft sing that song on such clear grounds as though with Israel shee had been standing at the red sea thy right hand O Lord is full of power thy right hand hath dashed in pieces thy enemyes for what nation or People is like this to whom he hath shewed such marvellous things Now to shew forth the faithfulnes of God in this his promise I would offer some few things that are a most clear and undenyable witnes thereto 1. There are fevv ages but vvee have some record of the churches condition vvhich hold forth such signal convincing providences of God in behalf of his oppressed church and people as may be a manifest seal to this truth it is true some times have been more remarkable for suffering times of judgement of a growing tryal wherein this truth hath not so clearly shined forth yea that long night vvhich the church had under Antichrist might seem to call it in question but never the lesse if men take a serious look of the Lords vvay and series of providence in ages past comparing one time vvith another what the straits and most extream case of the church hath at last resolved in they will find cause to cry with astonishment great deliverances giveth he to his people yea the Lord hath done gteat things for them I am sure were a full record with that true account which might be given of these more remarkable delivrances that particular churches have met with since the first planting of the Gospel among them wherein Gods very immediat hand for their help hath been discernable it should non-plus the World and greatest Atheists anent the real outmaking of this promise 2. The confession even
never their ruine but an outgate was oft brought about in a way they could not have expected yea the Lords shutting all other doores upon them hath been that he might open one himselfe like Hagars wel springing up in the wildernes 9. That in making this their aime when they had a large heart for God they have not then wanted an opportunity for evidencing the same their encouragement hath abounded with their duty and they have got much in in giving much out for Christ that there was no such feast in the world as they have sensibly found in the testimony of a good conscience EIGHT Instance is that promise which is held forth to the Christian in the word of strength and assistance to go about duties Is 40 29 30 31. Ps 18 6 14. Ps 84 5. Ps 68 28. To clear this that it hath an unquestionable performance I attest the experience of the generation of the righteous who ever knew what it was to serve the Lord in the spirit who by many sensible confirmations have not proven the certainty of these things First that when they have gone about duty under much deadnes and straitnes of spirit they have found a very sensible enlargement and got their bonds loused which surely they could no moe command without the concurrence of divine help something above nature then these who spread out the â—ail can command a fair wind when it is crosse 2. That Gods help and concurrence was never more discernable carrying them through and making them strong then in the day that to their own sense they were most weak when they have gone about duty under greatest feares and fainting in spirit 3. That when they had most confidence in themselves and judged they were at greatest advantage in their going about some duty they have usually had the saddest retreat and found that a sure truth the race is not to the swift nor the battle to the strong 4. They knew well what an influence divine concurrencâ— hath not only upon their inward frame but also upon the exercise of their gifts yea upon the commonest abilites of judgement and memory and that there is a most remarkable difference betwixt themselves at one time and an other according to the blowing of this wind 5. They must also witness this as their experience they found duty never more easy to them then when they have had most to doe and were keeped throngest therein yea when much work was laid to their hand they then wanted not an enlarged allowance for the same 6. That their fpirits have been fitted for duty and carried through difficulties where at some other time and in an other frame they would have fainted and thereby seen that none needs to scarr at piece of duty when God calleth them to it for while difficulties have appeared greatest at first the lesse they have found them afterward yea the hardest piece of service oft made most easy 7. They finde God doth raise the spirit of his followers with a suitable elevation for their work and can fit them for the service of that time and other tryals thereof even beyond their ordinary reach 8. That there is an open doore and sensible assistance when there hath been work for the Gospel in such a place while on the other hand they have found an inhibition sensibly served on them the doore as it were shut when the tide was going back and the work of the Gospel at a stand in such a part 9. That it is not greatest abilities which make undertakings succesful it being in vain to rise up early without the Lord. 10. It hath oft been their experience that in following the way of God his candle did then shine upon their paths the Spirit of the Lord was with them and sensibly let out the withdrawing wheteof hath been no lesse discernable while they turned aside from him that they have then been put to bear the burthen alone and found difficulty and despondency of spirit at once growing upon their hand 11. I may adde what these who are serious in Religion have oft tryed that there is no such help and furniture for going about duties as a spiritual frame and nearnes with God for then light and counsel inward freedome and sweet composure of spirit have brought most sensible advantage to them in their greatest yea and in their most common undertakings this hath been very evident NINTH Instance Is that great promise we have Rom. 8 ver 28. that all things shall work together for good to them who love God and Psal 25 ver 10. all the pathes of the Lord are mercy and truth to such as keep his Covenant I confesse it is not easy sometimes to reconcile Gods way and this piece of his Word together these who take only an ordinary passing look of providence cannot well judge how such things wherewith oft the godly in their life are trysted should contribute to their good and advantage while nothing would seem more directly crosse to the same But the Christian and wise observer can give another account they know what a sure truth this is that there is no real jarr betwixt the promise and providence of God in this matter and what ever be the present thoughts patient on waiting hath had cause to say this 1. When his way and their thoughts have most differed in the accomplishment of his Word and bringing about their mercy they have found it was to their advantage that his choice was alway better then theirs yea they have been oft made to confesse that their saddest disappointments therein have tended to their further upmaking 2. That the Lords denying them some outward thing which they have most desired they have found as afterwards hath appeared was to grant them more then their desire he hath refused them as it were in an Ishmael that he might give them ane Isaack 3. They can oft say they had been undone if they had not been undone that it was their mercy the Lord took such a way to cast them in a fever to prevent a lethargy and by some sharp crosse gave them a wound in the flesh to cure and let out some grosse impostume in their soul which should have made their case worse 4. How greatest shakings have helped their further establishment so as they were never more confirmed then in that about which they have been most brangled yea they have also found this the Lords way to cure their frowardnes and misbeleef by some further addition to their crosse that when they would not beleeve he hath caused them come in upon a greater disadvantage whileas a small affliction hath made them impatient a more heavy and pressing trouble hath been their cure and helped them to keep silence under Gods hand 5. That the growing of difficulties in their way and some further pressure in the tryal they have found it was from the Lord in order to its removal and to the bringing forth of some greater
of the Churches enemyes hath oft witnessed this truth that in pursuing their malice to trouble and undoe her they have but undone themselves how tormenting disappointments have caused their very flesh to pine away and the close and issue of their rage forced this conviction from them at last that the Church is a burthensome stone to be lifted up a party with whom it is full of hazard to meddle have not such been made to discern something of a divine hand so clearly against them blasting their counsels and most promising attempts as if their eyes with Balaam had been opened to see the Angel in their way yea in all ages it is known how the conscience even of the worst hath oft bewrayed something of a presaging fear they have had of these whom they pursued with greatest malice and a dreadful impression they had of a praying people and their prayers 3. This truth hath had the clearest witnes in times of the Churches greatest strait and extremity when difficulties have appeared insuperable and an outgate in an ordinary way of providence most hopelesse when visible meanes have been withdrawn all refuge failed and none to help that in such a day the Lord hath been seen upon the mount and unexpectedly by very strange midses brought deliveranee to a broken almost ruined Church even as it were betwixt the bridge and the water so that these who would have a clear view of the accomplishment of this promise may but turn back on these more remarkable extream exigences of the Churches condition aod there have it how oft a sweet sunshine hath followed the most dark and cloudy times a raging storm hath resolved into a refreshing calm yea that with a further grouth of the Churches tryal and doubling of her burthen her enlargement and outgate hath broken up with so great and obvious remarkes therein that it was a convincing return of prayer wrestling having further addition of some new and singular mercy therewith yea some eminent act of judgment upon her adversaries 4. The greatest advantage and victories which men have got over the Churches and people of God can also bear witnes to this that when the wicked have sprung up like the grasse and the workers of iniquity seemed to flowrish this very way hath the Lord taken to bring about a more full deliverance Yea on the other hand hath it not been very obvious how the Churches gain hath been brought forth out of greatest lose that these wounds which seemed most deadly by the infinitly wise providence of God have turned to her most effectual and through cure and mens unreasonable violence and rage against the Church hath oft had an evident tendency to bring about even that whereto it seemed most directly contrary some further mercy and deliverance then could have been expected as the Amorites refusing Israel butâ— passage through their land did prove the very mean to give them more then they sought the possession of that land for an inheritance 5. This witnes the observation of the Church in all ages can bear to this promise that deliverance hath oft sprung up and been brought to her hand from an airth and by such meanes as none would have expected by such as none but God could doe a sudden report and rumour 1 Sam. 23 ver 27. meanes that have been not only small and improbable but that looked directly contrary as in bringing the Church out of Egypt yea sometime by the wicked ensnared in the work of their own hands is it not obvious how the Lord hath trysted mens privat interests to put them on for befriending his Church and hath caused the earth to help the woman and raised up one oppressour to punish another yea often hath prepared carpenters whence it was least thought to cut the horns of these who had scattered his people 6. There is this convincing witnes to the truth of such a promise that sudden remarkable change which may be oft discerned both on mens inward frame and the outward face of the Church when a time of mercy and enlargement is come instruments raised of the Lord with a discernable elevation of their spirits to act and doe exploits the feeble then made strong and these who sometime would have fainted at an ordinary piece of service dare with such a gale of divine assistance run as it were through a troup and overleap a wall ' for indeed this may in all ages be obvious how easy it is to move in the day when the Lord moveth for his people and strengthneth the girdle of their loines that it was not their bow or sword which got them the victory but the very finger of God something above the counsels of men or ordinary meanes which hath sometimes been made clear as the noonday so that even at some distance these who are wise to discâ—â—n the times did see when there was a breaking up of a dâ—y of a Churches hope how a previous motion and stir anongst the dry bones the sound of the Lord as in the top of the mulberry trees hath been then discernable and some pâ—â—mising appearance from the present disposition and tenper of the Godly in that time though we must grant mâ—rcy soveraign grace hath oft trysted the Church when litle of this hath appeared which like the breaking up of thâ—t cloud in the of mount Carmel to the Prophet though at first but as an handbreath hath shewed that livâ—rance to the Church was not far of â— I would adde this witness also these convinceing prâ—vidences which in all ages have been shewed against the enenyes of the Church such as men could not passe without some remark what an issue these have had who have sometimes been a sore rod on the People of God yea a terour in the land of the living How they have become a most abject and contemptible party like bees who have lost their sting their countenance hath been changed and they ceased to be any more a fear when once their work was done and the date of their commission for the humbling and trying of the Church exspired yea a judicial stroke from the Lord hath been often seen upon their very judgement and resolutions which could not then serve them to trouble and afflict the Church the day being turned and the time of her deliverance come FIFTH There is this Promise also which concerneth the Church in general as well as Christians in their personal case that all things work together for the goâ—d of these who live God Rom. 8 28. the accomplishment whereof as it is written out in providence to the observation of men I would here touch This is indeed a great comprehensive promise which in the constant course and tenor of providence about the Church we may see it doth take place how these turrings and changes of the World the most strange emergents of the time the various motions and interests of men doe cooperat together and have an
break his bonds c. for truely in all ages Christs rising in the Gospel hath cast a terrour to its enemyes that this should be their fall and ruine when the Apostle hath an effectual doore opened in his ministery he hath also much opposition thereto but on the other hand all is still and quiet while the strong man doth keep the house yea it is clear from the word that where the gospel cometh there is a red flag hung forth that if men will not receive the same and subject to him who rideth on the white horse one shall come after whose worke is to take peace from the earth to put the world in a flame and to accomplish the judgement of a despised gospel who shall devide betwixt the husband and wife the parents and children wherein our blest Lord Jesus is expresse Math. 10 ver 34. I come not to send peace on the earth but rather a sword which might seem strange from him but it is to tell men if they will not embrace the offer of his peace they shall not have peace among themselves for the message of the gospel must either be the best or the worst sight that ever a land had 11. This may seem strange how in all ages men of greatest parts and learning are such usual opposers of the truth yea how the most sober and calme will even appear violent in their way the more the gospel is followed with power but O! how well doth this answer the scripture for the wisdome of this world is enmity to God 1 Cor. 3 ver 19. not many wise according to the flesh comparatively with these who hate the truth of all the beasts of the field was not the serpent Satans choice and if there be an Achitophel in the time at him he will have a special pull to such the simplicity of the gospel is foolishnes whereat they stumble to such Christ is a rock of offence we find the light doth torment them that dwell in the earth will cause men blaspheme and discover that which would not appear whilest they got leave to enjoy their sinful peace without disturbance 12. These strange judgments which may sometimes befal the Saints in their outward lot yea sometimes attended with some very astonishing circumstances would at the first look put men to a stand and to challenge the holy way of God But let us weight it in that ballance of the Scripture and we will find 1. That such hath been the complaint of the Saints the Lords wounding them vvith the vvound of a cruel one vvhat a strange query is that in Lament 2 ver 20. Behold and consider to whom thou hast done this shall the women eat the fruit of their womb shall the Priest and Prophet be slain the Sanctuary of the Lord yea did it not even to Solomon seem strange Eccles 8 ver 14. that there are just men to whom it happeneth according to the work of the wicked 2. It looked like some strange stroke vvhich forced David to this complaint my enemies cast iniquity on me and say an evil disease or as the original readeth it a thing of Belial cleaveth to him vve find losias fell by the svvord Eli vvith one stroke hath his sons killed his Daughter in lavv dying and himself falling from his seat and breaking his neck yea Aaron hath both his sons killed before his eyes by an immediat stroke from the Lord. 3. The vvord doth also shevv there is no jar betvvixt this and the tenor of the Covenant vvhich God hath made vvith his people to punish their transgression with rods yea sometimes by a strange rod while he taketh not his loving kindnesse from them and doe we not find that a cleanly tryal may tryst the saints vvhich the vvorld vvould think a dreadful judgement for great sufferings may be ordered of the Lord to give some great examples thereby vve have heard of the patience of Job and have seen the end of the Lord. 13. The gross falling of these who have sometimes shined with much lustre in the Church may be astonishing but here also vve may see the scripture made out for it is clear First that fevv instances of the most eminent of the Saints vve have on Scripture record but there is some particular spot and blemish also noted a Noah Lot Moses and David yea under the Nevv Testament that great Apostle whose denyall of his master is set forth to shew how far some may fall whom grace will again restore and make up 2. It is there clear that some of understanding doe fall for a judgement to others that such who will stumble whose prejudice at the way of God is their choice may thus further fall and be broken 3. The blest meaning and intent hereof we may there also read to Alarum men to watchfulnes that such who stand may take heed lest they â—all to warrant also their adventuring on the grace of God that none should scar to come in after such eminent examples 14. I would adde this The contingency of events that we see many things in such a casual way fall out in the world as if by chance only without the rational conduct of a providence which doth infallably direct things to a certain end this might at the first look put men to a stand yea would seem to give Atheists some shadow to say how doth God see or doth the God of Jacob regard But upon a more serious enquiry setting the word over against it O what a sweet exercise should it be to consider 1. That though the providence of God in things here beneath moveth sutably to the nature of inferiour causes whither necessary free or contingent not violenting them or otherwayes making use of them but according to their nature so that though the event be necessary and infallible witâ— a respect to the first cause the determined counsel of God it is never the lesse contingent in respect of its nearest cause yet this also on the other hand is clear how the smallest and most casual motions doe certainly fall under that comprehensive reach of providence that even a sparrow falleth not to the ground by guesse Rebeccah cometh not with her pitcher to the well nor Ruth to glean in Boaz field at an adventure but in these the providence of God must reach its end and cannot miscary 2. That these things which to us would seem most casual we oft see in their tendency and product have been intended by the Lord as a special mean for the promoting of his glory wherein such a wonderful tryst and uniting of things in themselves most remote for that end may be truely discerned that if prejudice do not shut mens eyes they must confesse this can be no blind chance but some higher counsel and conduct of the same what would look more contingent then that Ahasuerus was indisposed to sleep and could have no rest in the night or that a reflexion of the sun
Churches ruines and witnes their detestation and grief for the growing Apostacy of such times 3. It is clear that as the prophecy doth point at some more remarkable suffering and persecution which the Church was to meet with from Antichrist beyond all it had endured from that adversary in former ages yea a special permission from the Lord to that party to vent their rage and cruelty against the Saints which should fall out after the witnesses finishing their testimony who had so long in an abject low condition as in sackcloth prophecyed yea when Antichrist should be at his height and his Kingdome upon the turn that then must this remarkable killing of the witnesses be accomplished so likewise did the event convincingly verify the same for it is knowen that upon the close of Antichrists reigne whilest the truth began to break up this sorest storme of persecution beyond all that had been before did then break upon the Church even in its budding forth that we may say that adversary did not onely put forth the outmost of his power and rage against the Saints but seemed in some measure to bring his cruel designes to passe which the dreadful massacres in France Province and the Valleys of Piemont the sore and violent persecution of the Church through the Netherlands under the Duke of Alba and in England by Queen Mary in Germany after the defeat of the Duke of Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse can clearly witnes 4. Is it not also clear how this remarkable storm and cutting down of the Saints over whose dead bodyes their adversaryes did rejoyce was according to this prophecy to be previous to some eminent enlargement and reviving of the Church which did accordingly fall out in the event like a resurrection of the witnesses from the dead to the astonishment of the World that immediatly followed upon the back thereof so that when their enemyes thought they had gained their end as they did conclude by such persecutions particularly that French massacre that the Protestant interest should be quite ruined they were forced to see their labour in vain and the Church more eminently flowrishing after the same I shall but furder adde that Antichrist hath not only been revealed and his Kingdome come to its height but it is clear this day that it is on the falling hand and his ruine is now begun upon which account we may say yea have cause to sing that the winter is past the fig tree putteth forth her leaves that sheweth the sommers approach yea the singing of birds is heard in our land let us go forth and meet him who is now gone out as a mighty man for the salvation of his Church and taken the fields against this great adversary of his truth and people on whose side victory doth surely wait II. WHAT IS YET TO BE ACCOMPLISHED HAving touched a little some of the most concerning prophecyes of the Scripture both under the New Old Testament which are already fulfilled and the truth thereof so clearly written forth in the history of providence that we may say the most ordinary observers if they will not shut their eyes cannot want a conviction thereof I shall now in the next place point at that which yet remaineth of the prophetical part of the Scripture to be accomplished these prophecyes which concern the Church in these last times whereby we may have a sure demonstration how far the night is spent and of the near approach of that blessed day of the liberty of the sonnes of God for this doth finish the mystery of God and fully perfecteth his work if once that which remaineth of the prophecyes of the word were fulfilled There are these truths the accomplishment whereof we have a sure warrant to expect before the end First the full ruin and downfal of Babylon 2. The conversion and incalling of the Jewes to Jesus Christ 3. A solemn day of the Churches flowrishing both Iewes and Gentiles which shall follow the outmaking of the former promise 4. The fall and destruction of the Turkish Empire that cruel party who hath been raised up and established for judgement with whom the Lord shall yet reckon for all that Christian blood by them so unjustly shed seemeth clearly held forth Rev. 16 ver 12. 5. We are also to expect after all these that full and last stroke upon Gog and Magog and then the Lord is at hand and that great mystery of the prophecyes and promises of the Scripture shall then be finished and at a blessed close I. We have the full ruin and destruction of Antichrist and his Kingdome clearly prophecyed and in very expresse tearmes promised to the Church 2 Thess 2 ver 2 8. Rev. 16 ver 10 17. the accomplishment whereof we do yet according to the Scripture wait for that the God of truth who cannot lye or repent shall in due time assuredly bring about and that this day approacheth when that solemn cry shall be heard Babylon is fallen anent which we would consider 1. That this judgement is already begun and the first step thereof visible is now clear wherein men may see the event most exactly answer the prophecy for the Lord hath begun to consume Antichrist by the breath of his mouth and since the first breaking up of the light his Kingdome hath been mouldering down before the Word hath not Nations fallen off at the voice of the preached Gospel It is true the Church wanteth not sore conâ—licts even under the Vials and it is the Lords way to try his People with such various uncertainties that when things have been most promising another providence cometh like a crosse wave which seemeth to drive them as far back as once they seemed to be forward yet it is sure and should be beyond debate that Antichrists overthrow is upon a present advance and that work of the Lord for his Churches deliverance is going fordward for if we believe salvation by Christ upon the warrant of the word should we not also with much assurance believe that Antichrists wound is deadly and incurable which he hath got by the preaching of the Gospel which all the Physitians of the earth shall never help 2. This is one of the greatest and signal actes of the judgement of God on his Churches enemyes one of the most eminent manifestations of his glory which he hath reserved for the last times wherein the appearance of his hand and great power shall be very manifest and we are to expect by this remarkable stroak that way shall be made for that glorious house which Christ is to have for himself in the latter dayes which shall be built upon Antichrists ruines when that new bride both of Iewes and Gentiles shall be prepared for the marriage supper of the Lamb. 3. Though we are to expect on clear ground from the word the Lords eminent appearing by his immediat hand in this great work which shall be so convincing in that day and witnes an
adversaryes we may also on clear Scripture grounds conclude that the Lord is now awaked as a mighty man and upon the fields yea that the war is surely begun against Antichrist and all the adversaryes of his Church which shall not cease until the full victory be obtained for indeed these providences which in these last times should be very affrighting and terrible when we go in to the word we shall find they have a comfortable aspect on the Church and do presage her greater enlargement which as the tender buds and leaves of the fig tree are put forth to shew the sommers approach Luc. 21 ver 28. it is true the Church is now low and the work of God meets with very sad interruptions which are needful both for tryal and rebuke but this also is sure which none can deny that the Lord hath eminently appeared and done great things for his Church yea we must say he hath by a confluence of very remarkable providences thus condescended to strengthen his peoples hands to confirm such who are ready to stagger even as it were by cruches anent the greatnes of these things which are yet promised Now to clear this truth a little we would consider First How it is very consonant to the Scripture and expresly held forth in the same that in the last times and turn of the Churches case from Antichrist the Lord will thus appear in his great strength and set up his standard against his adversaryes yea will then in a special way call forth his people to glorify him by an active testimony 2. That the Lord hath thus begun to appear according to his word is a truth that is also undenyable should much help to confirm our faith anent the performance of that which further remains of the Scripture 1. That this is manifest from the word may be thus clear First Though the Church militant must not want an adversary and some persecution from the World even in her best estate yet we have a safe warrant to expect that the Lord will glorify himselfe in a peculiar way in his people now in these latter dayes by doing and acting for the truth as in former ages his glory did most appear dnreing Antichrists Reign in his Churches suffering for then the faith and patience of his Saints was to be witnessed in its season Rev. 13 ver 10. and thus he would serve himselfe of his people and bring forth his glory until that time of retribution when these who had killed with the sword should be killed by the sword and these who led unto captivity be so dealt with which doth also clearly promise some special outletting of the Spirit for acting with these gifts of courage and resolution sutable to the service of the Church in the latter dayes and truely I think it is a great want we study not more the accomplishing of the promises and how to improve the same for gifts as well as grace in order to the several times and necessities of the Church 2. It is very clear from the Scripture that in the last dayes when Christ is to raise his Church from under the power and tyranny of Antichrist he shall then appear in a warlike posture which John had shewed to him Rev. 19 v. 13 14. as one upon the head of his forces with his vesture dipped in blood to shew that vvhen once the vvar is begun against his adversary and this Lyon of the tribe of Juda begins to rouze himselfe up vvhat a terrible appearance he vvil have in that undertaking and it is clear that the Lord hath declared in this his counsel and vvill that his Son Christ should in the latter times take unto himselfe his great povver and reign Rev. 11 ver 17. yea cause the World knovv him to be Head of principalityes and povvers as vvell as of the Church for his glory in this truth as a King which former ages seemed in so great a measure to darken must then clearly shine forth I truely think mens appearing with such violence and rage against so concerning a truth now in these dayes doth promise some eminent appearance of the Lord therein and that he shall yet more solemnly assert the same before the World 3. Doth not the Scripture point at the last times as that special time of recompence for the controversy of Sion to which the Lord hath reserved a solemn triumph of his justice over all his Churches enemyes when he shall enquire for the blood of his Saints shed upon the earth since the dayes of Abel at Babylons hand Revelat. 18 ver 24. that great adversary who stands in law guilty and hath served her selfe heire to all the violence cruelty done in former ages for in her hand must that cup be found full which the enemyes of the Church from the beginning hath been filling up and as so many rivers and fountaines hath run unto this great sea 4. It is also clear that in the last times when the Lord shall bind up the breach of his people and heal the stroke of their wound who for so long a time had been trampled under by Antichrist he shall by some signal providences roll away this reproach and scandal of meannes contempt and persecution shall put some glory on his Church proportionable to its former abasement yea thus comfort her according to the dayes wherein he had afflicted her and cause his peoples uprising in measure and kind to answer their low and suffering state from Antichrist even in the last times when the Lord shall make them appear with the face of a Lion when the feeble shall be as David and as the Angel of the Lord Zach. 12 ver 8. which promise doth clearly point at the Churches raising and delivery from Antichrist upon the back whereof we find the Prophet doth foretel the last conversion and incomming of Israel 5. I shall only adde what the Scripture doth most expresly shew that the Lord shall so gloriously appear in bringing his Church out of Babylon and executing his judgement on that adversary as in the day when he brought his people out of Egypt and therefore shall they sing the song of Moses and the lamb Rev. 15 ver 3. his great power and outstretched hand being no lesse discernable therein then if they had been standing with Israel at the red Sea when they saw their enemyes lying dead upon the shore yea have we not ground to believe that the Lord shall make himself very evidently knowen in raising instruments and acting them forth which hath been already seen and I am sure the World must confesse what great things have been done by these of whom little was expected III. That the Lord hath thus begun to appear and make himself known to the World in these last ages according to his word is a thing very easy to demonstrat for 1. Is it not clear how in these last times he hath met his enemyes upon their high places
followed with a most strange and extraordinary darknes which both for the suddennes and greatnes of the same did astonish and affright all who were present and after all so violent a downpowring of rain as made the streets to run like a river imprisoning the Lords within that house for an houre and an half and truely as we are not hereon to lay stresse or be peremptory in the application of particular providences yet this was so very convincing as should not be passed without a special remark considering first how at that time many of the choise Ministers of the Land were together near the town at fasting and prayer bewailing before the Lord such an avowed defection from the truth 2. That likewise this horrid tempest and darknes appeared to these who were at some distances to be most directly above the toun the darknes overshadowing that part â—onely and was not so in other places 3. That they had by the instigation of the Prelats guarded the entry to the Parliament that day lest any Ministers should have entred a protestation in behalf of the Church against these Articles â—â—â— thus thought themselves seoure from any opposition of that kinde but whilest they least suspected they are met with a more publick and visible witnes from Heaven against the same 4. Which was also most strange upon the monday following whilest these acts were proclained the Heavens did in the same manner put on darknes with a most fearful tempest of thâ—â—der lightning and rain which continued all the time of their reading at the Crosse And truely when the Lord thus doubled his warnings it might cry aloud formens observation thereof The breaking of that journey to New-England which about the year 1636 was seriously intended by some of the choise Ministers and Christians in Ireland who were then much persecuted by the Prelates though not from any fear of their own sufferings but with a respect to a further liberty to serve the Lord in the work of the Gospel when that door was â—hut upon them in their own countrey This was truely a strange and remarkable providence and their preservation in some kind miraculous anent which these circumstances are worthy to be observed 1. That whilest their vessel amidst a tempestrous sea and far from any land was like a riddle with so many lakes yea the rudder of the Ship breaking so that the Pilots were turned wholly hopelesse and could not see any ground of safety in an ordinary way a poor sea man by a remarkable providence whose company they had much shunned was made the instrument of preserving the whole vessel with a marvellous dexterity fastening the rudder which others had given over as one visibly sent by the Lord for that end 2. The strong perswasion that some of these worthy Ministers had of their safety which with great confidence they declared before the passengers whilest the Pilot and others were giving it over as a hopelesse bussinesse and seeing a convincing necessity for a return though it was very astonishing and bitter at the first look yet was afterwards followed with a clear discovery from the Lord as one of them with much freedom did expresse his assurance to the rest of his brethren that since the Lord would not accept their service in America they should not want work and service whither he was sending them back by so remarkable a providence as within a short time was evident the downfal of the Prelats in Scotland and after in Ireland trysting shortly upon the back thereof so that it may be said this was a convincing presage thereof the Lord by a strong hand bringing back such choise and useful instruments for that great harvest vvhich did after follovv so that they could not but say the Lord did in a very marvellous and immediat vvay appear in that crosse vvind and storm and thereby as if vvith an audible voice did vvitnes his minde in such a disappointment 3. It vvas also most observable that none of these vvho on the account of their consciences that they might enjoy the purity of the ordinances vvent in that journey vvas the vvorse but had a safe return only some persons vvho upon another account expecting a fat soil and outward advantage in that place and had unexpectedly slipt in the vessel did all dye upon the sea save one being 5 in number and it vvas also vvonderful upon their return hovv the Lord as he had stayed the rage of the sea did also still the tumults of People vvhich they found by experience so that it did evidently give a dash and became a terrour to their adversaries I must here also set down a very singular and strange instance we may say both of judgement and mercy which was in this land not many yeares ago a Gentleman whose style was Wastraw a most bloodyman and otherwayes notour for profanity but most in this that it vvas his great vvork and pleasure to put difference betvvixt men and as it vvas at that time very easy to engadge them in blood vvhilest he had thus stirred up a neighbour Gentleman to kill an other in that place finding him after sore troubled in mind thereanent he told him more of that practice vvould be the best cure for he himself had killed 6 and at the first time was much disquieted but the longer he did continue it became the more easy But one day vvhilest he vvas on such an account riding to a place vvhere 2 had trysted to decide a privat quarrel by fighting his horse stumbles on the side of a steep rock and he falls a great vvay dovvn his svvord falling out before him yet vvithout any hurt and here by such a strange piece of providence did the Lord tryst and break in upon his conscience so that he quits his journey turns home vvith great trouble and remorse a most kindly change follovving thereon and for some yeares after vvitnessed much tendernes and repentance by his after vvalk spent much time alone mourning before his death and that day he dyed having no visible appearance thereof to these vvho looked on he vvas heard in his chamber much vvrestling in prayer and after long continuance these of the house vvere forced to break up the door getting no answer after their long knocking finds him dead in the room but upon his knees in a prayer posture the vvhole blood of his body vvhich from every passages thereof had issued out svveeming about him in the floore it being visible hovv all these passages vvere opened for that effect a most astonishing instance declaring this to the World though He pardon the inquity of his People yet some sins he vvill not let passe vvithout a visible mark of his anger but vvill take vengeance on their inventions What an observation passage is that also knovvn to many yet alive anent a notorious robber in the south parts of this land called Iohn of the Score who for many years having driven that
sacrifice of the Lord be abhorred then some of these who should be the falt of the earth yea none more obstruct the treaty of the Gospel betwixt Christ and his Church then Ministers who are called the friends of the bridgroom Oh what a strange and astonishing contradiction may this seem but it should be no reproach to that holy and excellent calling of the Ministry for of such the Scripture hath expresly warned I confesse it may be said no Atheist like an unsanctified Minister yea no Atheisme of so black a dye as theirs who being still enured with holy things have yet no sense thereof Now in this very dark houre wherein the Church seemeth to have fallen in a death like pang and oh many of her Children in a sad lâ—thargie that if we looked in an ordinary way her wound might seem incureable there are a great and concerning Quaeries that I think should much take us up The one is to know what the Scripture speaketh to the Church what solid ground of encouragement is there held forth for truely if we had not that sure testimony of the Word we might fear Religion should quite wear out and truth perish from the earth but doth the Scripture speak peace all then is well that O that is sufficient security to put the Churches hope beyond further debate though men should threaten though the earth were overturned and the foundation shaken this is a determination above men above all the rules of humane policy yea above the stars which frustrateth the tokens of the liars and maketh diviners mad even that revealed Counsel of God taking place anent his work and People I knw some grave writers of these late times doe expresse their fear that the horrid wickednesse apostacy of the Gentile Church may at last resolve in the Lords departure and an universal darknes that as the rejection of the Jewes made way for the Gentiles incoming so their fall may as remarkably preceede that solemn return and restauration of the Jewish Church it is also become the fear of many that Popery may yet once overrun the whole Reformed Churches before Antichrist fall but since these sad thoughts nor any appearances of the time are no part of our Bible we should learn neither to stretch our fears nor expectations beyond that which the Scripture warranteth and if the Lord be God and this his very word let us adhere to it and wait for its accomplishment A 2. Quaere which is ndeed no lesse concerning in such a time may be anent Duety what so imminent an liazard of the Church and this great decay of Christianity doth most pressingly call for but this is a subject which requireth another pen and too large to touch with a passing word yea we may say the great want of these dayes is not anent the discovery of duety but of the practice of known and discovered duetyes for the Scripture giveth a certain and distinct sound in the darkest time and hath not left us to doubtful inquiries and debate in this matter I shall therefore leave it with a few things onely to be in the general considered 1. It is sure that every time hath its present duety and the wise discerners thereof will knw thence what they ought to do what work and service the present circumstances of that time cals for shall the earth have its seasons wherein things are beautiful shall the stork and swallow know their time and yet Christians not know how to bring forth fruit in their season and discern the special time and opportunity of duety 2. It is also sure that every Christian in whatsoever capacity or condition as he hath his measure and talent so hath some work and opportunity of duety wherein they may serve the Lord in their generation yea it is not the meanest lot or condition that shutteth that door upon any that they have no work for God who desire to be faithful for him Oh that in this threatning time when darknes is like to overspread the Church it were more upon the heart of Christians to strive together and contend by a serious improvement of their several capacities to preserve Religion and transmit the knowledge of Jesus Christ to the posterity that the Christian parent or Master of family did witnes more that great resolution in a time when many are drawing back but as for me I and my house will serve the Lord. 3. It is found that the most eminent and honourable service of the Church doth usually tryst her in a low and suffering condition when there hath been but little strength many outward disadvantages then both their call and furniture hath been most observable to confesse the truth to endure for the Gospel of Christ to overcome by the Word of his testimony a piece of service whereto more prosperous times doe not give such an opportunity yea it hath been in such a case Dan. 11 32. that these who knew their God were made strong to do exploits 4. It doth much concern us to put a high value on the truth in a time when men must either lose it or buy it and O what a choise purchase is that which cannot be bought too dear though at the rate of our liberty estate credit and reputation yea with the losse of peace when it cometh in competition with it For it is that great depositum oâ—ce dâ—livered to the Saints the inheritance of our Children that way whereby Jesus Christ keepâ—th intercourse with his Bride on the earth yea the charter of all our mercyes and of our hope through eternity 5. Though every line of diâ—ine tâ—uth is inestimable yet it is sure there is a more pressing caâ—l for our adherence to that truth which is most controverted in the time for it is the word of his patience and the matter of our present testimony and it is known through all ages what a singular blâ—ssing hath followed the contending and witnessing of a few for the truth in a spait of publick defection to keep it alive when it was like to be swallowed up yea to effects above rational beliefe unus Athanasius contratotum orbem many such remarks have not been wanting 6. I shall only adde that which is alwayes necessary and binding yet we may say in a time of the Churches hazard and suffering is more pressingly called for even the study of Christian prudence a duety convincingly necessary for regulating of duetyes according to the circumstances of the Churches case which doth so nearly concern the interest and preservation of Religion that I must say a breach in that concord betwixt zeal and Christian prudence when there is not some equal respect studyed in the exercise of both cannot but give the Church a sore wound this is indeeda large theam but I shall onely point at in 3 things 1. In our avoiding and being tender to give offence not only to keep a distance from evil but from the smallest appearance thereof I must
last dayes it vvould be of great use and profit to the Church that some more fitly qualified vvould study a more large collection of this kinde O that this might go forth vvith a blessing from him vvho by the meanest things can serve himself promote the ediâ—icaaion of his Church and that the Lord vvould raise some up vvith much of his Spirit to make a further search and enquiry in this great and vveiguty truth ERRATA PAge 12 Line 1 for very read every pag. 45 lin 2 for ate r. are p. 77 lin 10 for securitly r. sccurity p. 90 lin 18. for were r. where pag. 94 lin 13 for plaines r. plainness p. 105 liu 26 for most r. must p. 167 lin 9 for hash r. harsh p. 185 len 3 for therefore r. thereof p. 108 lin 1. for Alba r. Alva pag. 214 lin 25. for cruches r crutches pag. 217 lin 11 for III r. 2. p. 220 lin 1 for IV r. III. p. 255 l. 31 for petioned r. petitioned p. 285 lin 11 for observation r. observable Other such fmaller escapes as one letter for another or wrong pointing will not hinder an intelligent Reader The fulfilling of the SCRIPTURE THere are two meanes by which the blessed Majesty of God hath chosen to reveal himself to the sons of men his Word and his Works which may be called these two great Luminaries for giving light to the Church though the one be greater I mean doth more clearly shine forth yea doth communicate light to the other these men must not divide which by so strait a tye the Lord hath joyned and by a mervellous correspondence hath set the one over against the other that it may be easy to see his faithfulnes and the accomplishment of the Scripture therein and indeed this is a great concerning truth that calleth for a serious study the solid persuasion of which should affoord a svveet ground of repose and rest for the soul though the earth were all in a combustion ronnd about and give a satisfying answer to our most sollicitous thoughts and feares Now this being the intended subject of the following discourse I shall first touch it a little in the general and then hold forth some more particular grounds whence it may be clearly demonstrated I. That the Scripture of God hath a certain accomplishment here in the World and what is to be understood by the same I shall endeavour to clear in these things which would be considered 1. This is the very unfolding of the Lords decree and secret purpose the bringing forth of his work now within time to the view of Angels and Men which was before him in the deep of his thoughts and counsel from eternity it is an opening up of the sealed book which we must not understand to be that secret roll of election and the book of life wherein the names of the elect are writ but Liber fatidicus the sealed book of Gods dispensations in the World shewing out his counsels and designes which should be brought forth in the after ages of time for as the Lord did fully comprehend what he was to do and all that was to befal his Church and People from the beginning to the end long long before there was a beginning before the mountaines were formed so hath he copyed and written out his heart in the Word hereanent wherein he hath most plainly shewed forth what were his blessed purposes and counsel of old and thus the thoughts of his heart his Word and his works do sweetly aggree and each one wonderfully answers to another for his work doth bring forth and accomplish his Word that his decree and counsel from all eternity may take place 2. The Scriptures accomplishment is the transcript and writing of it over in providence where we may see and admire how the Word doth shine upon all the pathes and footsteps of the Lord toward his Church in every age and gives light to the same and what an evident reflection his work hath again upon the Word so that through the whole series and course of providence in the earth we have a most exact portraicture and image of the Scripture answering one to another as face answers to face in the glasse where it may be easy to discern the copy by the principale and that resemblance which is betwixt the building and that excellent pattern and model which is held forth thereof in the Word 3. The accomplishment of the Scripture is the very turning that which was the object of our faith and contemplation to be the object of our sense and feeling it is the real birth and bringing forth these truths unto the World in their appointed time and season concerning the Church and particular Christians which were hid in that womb of the promise and many dark predictions of the Word it is such a thing as giveth the promises and Prophecyes a visible being yea bringeth truth so near within the reach of our senses that we may even touch as it were and handle the Words of life O what an excellent interpreter is experience Tast and see for thus the serious Christian getteth a view of the Scripture and spiritual things which the most subtil and piercing eye of unsanctified Schoolmen cannot reach yea by the practice of truth nearnes to God ahd retiring of the soul to him hath oft got more light in ane houre then others by many dayes putting their judgement and invention upon the rack 4. This is Gods own seale which he pntteth to the Word to confirm and ratify the same I do not only mean that secret seale of the Spirit within but something more external that solemn testimony of his workes whereby he doth every day appeal mens consciences anent his truth for his works are very manifest whereon there is so clear an ingravening of his truth and faithfulness that as the impresse and image of the seal is upon the wax men may also see whose superscription and image that is which doth appear on such and such passages of providences 5. This is something we are not to seek onely in the extraordinary acts of providence or in any singular and eminent path of a christian experience nay it doth shine forth in the smallest and most casual things that falls out yea in every Page of that great Volumn of providence may be clearly read 6. The Scriptures accomplishment is such a thing as concerns every Christian in his personal case to which his ordinary experience doth relate whereof these have a large register what of the Word hath been certainly proven in the several steps and changes of their life whose practice doth much ly betwixt improvement of the Word and observation how it is fulfilled such can witnes how under a spiritual decay to be carnally minded is death and when it s well that great peace they have who love Gods Law they have oft found that in a strait he is a very present help and in the way
of duty that its surely good to draw near to him and in the close of their life can from many remarkable and convincing providences declare the truth and faithfulnes of God and truely whilst I speak here of the Christians experience I think its sad and a great short coming that there is not a more serious improvement of it for this end which is a very concerning duty on such who have tasted that the Lord is gracious O what an excellent addition would this be to their testament when they are to leave the World to leave a testimony behinde them to the faithfulnes of God in his Word and promise and thus put their seale to the same from what they have oft proven by sure experience for this should prove a singular help to strengthen others and spread abroad the fame and good report of religion yea thus one generation should declare the works of the Lord to another and transmit the memory of his goodnes to succeding ages 7. This is something which not only the Christians experience doth witnes and in every time take place but hath also a peculiar reference to these ages and periods of times wherein such particular truths should have their accomplishment for its true that the Prophets of old did not onely in their predictions hold forth in general the truth and certainty of these things which should fall out but they also inquired and searched diligently anent the time to what or what manner of time the Spirit by them did point at 1 Pet. 1 11. For it s truely clear that a piece of the Word was under the Law to have its peculiar accomplishment that part of it also under the Messias Kingdome in the dayes of the gospel should be fulfilled and we find a very concerning part thereof belongs to thir latter times and there is betwixt such periods of time and revolution of the Churches case and the bringing forth of such a piece of the Scripture to a performance a very certain and undoubted connection It s true we do not yet well understand which will be one of the last manifestations the Church shall have at the end of time when the mystery of God is finished how to sort the event exactly to the Word but it is sure and were worthy of our study and observation how every age hath something of the Scripture peculiar thereto yea carrieth forward the Lords work and design a further step may we not see how one age fulfilleth such a piece of the Churches sufferings appointed for her and puts some great tryal and sad persecution over her head which she was to meet with whilst an other age carrieth her thorow an other change and giveth her a time of rest and breathing how such a time bringeth Antichrist fordward to his hight and such a following age begins the turn of the Churches case yea every several period and revolution of time still addeth something to that excellent history of the Word and providence which we have since the beginning and bringeth forth something further into the world of the Lords counsel and design about his Church 8. The accomplishing of the Scripture is such a thing we are to look after in a special way here which concerns this militant and traveling condition of the Church for if the Scriptures were once fully accomplished and the great mystery of God therein finished there were then nothing more to doe his work of providence were at an end and time should be no more this is something that is not here perfected at once but is still gradually carrying on and then shall be compleat at the resurrection of the just and second coming of the Lord which is the last part of Canonick Scripture to be made out when both his work and his word and time shall be all finished together but whill the sainets are yet by the way they have the written word and all these pretious promises therein for present use and encouragement for that is its proper work to take them safe thorow this labyrinth of the world and when it hath brought them to land it hath no more to doe there will be then no more need for a Christian to goe to a promise and adventure upon it we shall then no more watch with the watchmen in a dark and stormy night and hope for the breaking of the day faith then shall not be at a stand how such a word shall be made out because of invincible difficulties in its way no then it hath done its worke and that which is written shall be swallowed up in that which is seen and enjoyed all the streames of our encouragement will then lose themselves in a greater depth O then it s finished and done what all the promises prophecies and threatnings of the Word was bringing forth and then no more need of something as a pledge and earnest in hand to them who have the full possession of the inheritance under whose feet the God of peace hath trod Satan and all their enemies 9. I shall adde this the accomplishment of the Scripture is something which is not onely demonstrat to a Christian by sensible influences and Gods Secret working with his Spirit but is made out to the observation of men in the way of providence and not onely witnessed by that internal evidence of the Spirit but by an external testimony which both rationally holdeth this out to the judgement and sensibly to the sight and experience and this is the strongest and most full of all outward evidences since the world must shut their eyes if they do not see it and a Christian must deny what he both seeth and feeleth if he deny a witnes to this II. We would consider the accomplishment of the Scripture as that which is the Lords peculiar work and design in the World and that great bussines which is upon the wheels of providence amidst the various changes and revolutions which are here within time for bringing about whereof the blessed thoughts of his heart are fixed and unalterable This is indeed a grave and serious truth worthy to be more noticed and laid to heart by men that the glorious providence of God which goeth throughout the earth and doth particularly reach all things which come to passe the smallest as well as the greatest intrests of men in all these doth move certainly and infallibly for the accomplishing of the Scripture which is that great thing God hath before his eyes for it is no personal intrests of men how great so ever they be that can answer this end it is something beyond the Setting up of Kings or overturning Kingdomes and nations that he doth minde amidst these varions changes which are in the World it s some greater thing then that which we most notice the Lord thereby designes how such a party is advanced and others brought low for these things come within the reach of his care and providence in so far as the
fulfilling of the Scripture is therein concerned the outmaking of the promises and threatnings one syllabe whereof he doth more value then all the crounes and Kingdomes of the earth yea will not let it fall to the ground though it should be at the rate of laying cities and countries desolate for it s in this the Lord taketh pleasure and exerciseth his blessed thoughts even the bringing about what he hath spoken in his Word â— Now to clear this furder I shall hold forth these following grounds whence it may appear First the fulfilling of the Scripture and written Word is so great a thing and of such concernment that the blessed Majesty of God thought it worthy of a place in his heart from all eternity this was before him in his thoughts and counsels of old even that mervalous work which should be the after-product and outmaking of his Word to his Church here within time and surely was such a plott and contrivance that as no lesse then infinit love wisedome and power was required to bring it about so it was well becoming the Majesty of God and worthy to be the work of all the three blessed persons of the trinity O if we could go doun a little to this deep and see the wonders that are there we would find that knowledge which usually lesseneth our admiration of other things would highten it here it would be new to us every day to think how great and mervelous a thing that is which the Word is bringing forth 2. It is upon this even the performance of the Word that the present encouragement and after blessednes of the saints dothly for the great interest of the Church is adventured upon the Word and embarked with it which should be lost yea their stock and treasure which is laid up in heaven and all that a Christian is worth which is layd up in the promise were then perished if the Scripture should want an accomplishment the Godly man hath then run labourned in vain these who are fallen asleep in Christ have dyed in a sad delusion providence would be like the work of the foolish builder who begun and knew not how to finish O how heighly then is the Lord concerned in fulfilling of his Word That he may perfect what concerns his People and having surely payed the price put them also in possession 3. There is yet more then the interests of Angels and men yea then heaven and earth is worth that depends upon the outmaking of the Scripture the glory of God and especially the praise of that great attribute his faithfulnes which he will have no lesse shine forth in the performance of his Word then his power and wisdome in this great fabrick of the universe and these mervelous productions of nature for he hath magnified his Word above all his works therefore is his heart greatly set upon this even the bringing to passe what he hath spoken which if in the least should faill were no lesse then to make God a lyer and falsify his Word who is through all the Church known by this blessed name The God of truth 4. We would consider this as that great trust which is put in his hand who onely in heaven and earth was found worthy to open the book of Gods decrees and counsels and loose the seals thereof a trust which the Lord did not adventure upon the Angels the smallest promise being such as requires no lesse then an omnipotent power and the arme of Ithovah to bring it about for which end he whom the father hath anointed is gone forth as a mighty man who rejoyceth to run his race that he may perform his Word and through this great design in the administration of providence about his Church and People which he will not cease or give over until the mystery of God in the Scripture and all that was spoken by the Prophets be put to a close when Heaven and Earth at the pouring out of the last vial shal give that solemn shout and exclamation It is finished it is finished O if this were once fully perfect there would be no more to do then the Winter were past and the Summer come the song of Moses and the lamb should be heard because the bride hath made herselfe ready then let al the trees of the wood rejoyce the hills break forth into singing and all that is therein be glade because the Scripture and great design thereof is fully finished and the day of the perfect liberty of the Sonnes of God is come 5. The accomplishment of the Scripture is of such concernment that nothing can be done until it be once finished for this time must wait the Sun must keep its course and the ordinances of the Heaven continue as they are the World is but a scaffold until this building be perfected for this the grave doth still retain her prisoners and the dust of the Saints must yet rest in hope the creation still groaneth and the marriage supper of the lamb is deferred the cry of the souls under the altar get not a full return until all that is written in the Word be fulfilled 6. We would consider this is the great thing which the Lord this day is carrying on even the accomplishment of his Word for this is most brought upon debate of any thing besides the World challengeth it and the hearts of the godly do oft call it in question the Atheist scoffs at it and sayeth where is the promise of his coming there are often to appearance insuperable difficulties in the way of its performance therefore doth the Majesty of God so much concern himself in this for bringing about of which he is in a holy way restles and providence in an uucessant motion until he hath done that which he hath spoken in his Word It was for this cause that the Scripture might be accomplished that the Word was made flesh and he who counted it no robbery to be equal unto God did take upon himself the forme of a Servant this is of such account in his eyes that what time he speaks concerning a Nation or People ere it come not to passc he will rather put forth omnipotency for the working of miracles and change the very course of nature for this he wil make the deep dry make a way through the red Sea and cause I ordan stand as in heapes that he may keep promise to his People if there be no way for bringing about his Word but through a Sea of blood and over the bones and carcasses of his enemyes he will do it and bring it to passe though Walled Cities and the Sonnes of Anack mighty and strong should stand in the way thereof Abrahams old age and Sarahs dead womb must not frustrat this if the promise of the Churches restauration cannot be made out without a wonder shewed upon dry bones scattered at the graves mouth this shall not be wanting when God sayeth he 'll bring down
the enemyes of his Church if the dust of the ground should arise down they must come how many great designs of men hath this blessed design that the counsel of the Lord may stand crusht and broken so that their work and counsel hath been as the Spiders web when it stood crosse to this end the godly need not fear that he be not a present help in time of trouble for he will keep his word herein though the Earth should be overturned and the Mountaines cast into the midst of the Sea O who hath resisted his counsel What are all these vicissitudes and changes here in the World But making way for the Scriptures accomplishment with what desire doth he move towards this end So that as in Zachary 6 v. 8. the instruments by him appointed for executing his judgement and the threatnings of the Word it s said they have quieted his Spirit his decrees are mountaines of brasse which are unchangeable the thoughts of his heart take place in all generations therefore the Word Which is gone forth out of his mouth shall not return in vain but the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in his hand III. The accomplishment of the Scripture is a truth very clear and manifest whereof none can pretend ignorance if they doe not shut their eyes and force their own light from the fear of such a discovery for the obstruction doth notâ—ly in the darknes of the obiect or that men cannot see this since we have it so clearly held forth in great and legible charecters nay we must say the cause is culpable there is much of the will in it which renders such ane ignorance without excuse O that this should be so little lookt after a matter of such near and weighty concernment when there needs not an other demonstration but come and see the works of the Lord through the earth for he hath here so far condiscended to his People to bring the truth near that they even feel and grip the same yea doth in a manner say to every one as to Thomas put in your bands touch the Word and truth thereof and be no longer faithles tast but and see that the Lord is good and that he is true in what he hath spoken We are indeed to look after a more clear and full discovery of this truth the nearer the Church is to the end of time there is a labyrinth as it were of turnings and windings through which we may see the Word oft brought so as we lose sight thereof and are ready to stagger anent its performance but it s as true that the most eminent confirmations the saints ever had of this truth hath been after greatest shakings thereanent yea the Lord hath in all ages so visibly sealed his Word by its performance that we may say can he be a Christian and a stranger to this in his experience and a serious on-looker on providence and the dispensations of the time wherein he lives and a stranger to it in his observation yea can any be so wholly brutish not to discern a thing so clear that oftimes these who run may read But to speak a little more to this I shall here point at some things that may shew how manifest this truth is 1. Is it not very clear which we see very day brings to light A truth so conspicuous both in Gods ordinary way with his Church and in the several steps and passages of a Christians life For these mercies which bring the Word and promise to passe are new every morning and cry aloud if we could hear great is his faithfulnesâ— this is indeed tryed and needs there more to convince a blind man that his sight is restored to him but that he certainly seeth sure they never wanted confirmations here who do but serviously seek to be confirmed 2. Is it not a clear truth which not onely is found upon the exactest tryal but is witnessed by such who ever tryed it in their most pressing straits and extremity for it s in the darkest night this truth hath most brightly shined and these more remarkable ventorious acts of faith have they not still brought forth most convincing experiments thereanent We may say there is none can give a better account of the performance of the Word then these who against hope have beleeved in hope that this never made them ashamed 3. Is it not also clear whereof there are such solemn extraordinary comfirmations in all ages For that his name is near his wondrous works declare I am sure no time could ever deny its witnes how by great convincing providences both of judgement and mercy it hath been so sealed as hath forced Atheists to keep Silence no time wherein the Church had not cause to erect a pillar and engrave thereon We have seen with our eyes the great and wondrous works of the Lord by which he hath witnessed the truth of his Word 4. Is it not a manifest truth which even in the most strange and dark footsteps of providence so clearly shineth forth these which at the first look are an astonishment and hard to be understood yet after most clearly verify the Scripture that whilst the Lords way goeth out of our sight yea out of the ordinary road of his working through a labyrinth of turnings and crosse dispensations yet at length it doth evidently clear and dissintangle it selfe which men may oft see break forth as the sun out of a dark cloud that shiueth the more brightly the more it was obscured 5. Is it not very clear which can be demonstrated by such visible effects in these great changes of the World For the fulfilling of the Scripture is not a thing hid in a corner but oft published in the house tops that men may see legibly written upon Kingdomes and nations the desolate ruines and devaâ—â—ation of cities houses great and fair which are made to be without inhabitants so as these who go by may clearly read the cause and bear that witnes Lothereis sin visibly punished according to the Word 6. How clear is this which we have so evidently drawen out and acted over in a Christian walk For what else is the spiritual conversation of such these visible effects and evidences of the grace of God all along a Christians way but a visible convincing witnes to the performance of the word Hath not such a very audible Echo and resound to that which is the great drift and Scope of the Scripture where men may see the bible turnd over into a practical history written forth and acted on the heart and conversation of the saints as on a stage or theatre the Word living speaking moving and clearly diffusing it selfe through all the veines as it were and conduits of a Christians life so that if the truth and reality of the grace of God be a thing manifest and unquestionable we must also see therein the reall performance of the Scripture 7. I shall adde we may
doth commend it self to mens consciences as a safe ground whereon they may repose their soul It is also clear how wonderfully the Scripture hath been preserved and the original copyes thereof keept through all ages that what ever small variation there may appear as to some Apiculi which in some places hath caused divers readings yet in any necessary or saving truth the greatest Criticks will confesse they do not in the least vary and it is knowen wherein we are to adore that special providence of God that the Jewish Church to whom this sacred depositum was delivered did with such exact and singular care look to the same even in the least tittle or letter thereof this being the great work and study of the Mazarites from one age to another to see to the preserving of that great record from being in the least vitiat or corrupt and the greatest adversaries of the truth cannot possibly deny that aggreement betwixt these many original copyes in the whole substance which may be very convincing to the World And doth not men see how marvellous the whole frame of the Scripture is What a correspondency betwixt all the parts thereof that nothing in it doth in the least vitiat the proportion and beauty of the work but all alongst an evident tendency to advance holinesse and conform the soul to God With a wonderful consent and harmony in answering to this great end we see the simplicity and plaines of its style yet backt with a convincing Majesty and authority upon the conscience yea besids it hath been attested by miracles that were great in themselves famous in their time transmitted to the Church in after ages with unanswerable evidences of their truth that not only from the witnes of the Word but other pressing and rational grounds may let us see there could be no deceit or imposture therein These are a great testimony to the truth but I may say on very sure ground that next to that great witnes of the Spirit there is no argument more convincing to reach Atheisme a stroke and throughly satisfy an exercised Spirit who may be plunged anent this great thing the authority of the Scripture then a clear discovery of its performance whilst under the assault of such a temptation if this be the very word of God they may but retire within and then turn their eyes abroad in the World to see what a visible impresse of the Word is stamped on every piece of the work and providence of God Now for further clearing I would offer these few things 1. First the accomplishment of the Scripture is a very publick testimony from Heaven to its divinity whilst the Lord by his works through the Earth which are done in the view of Angels and Men doth solemnly avow that this is his Word for we must say his work within on the hearts of his People without about the Church is such whereat men yea all the magicians of the earth may stand amazed and confesse that nothing lesse then a divine almighty power can accomplish the same 2. This gives in the witnes of all the generation of the righteous who from the beginning have proven the truth thereof yea sealed by the blood of many excellent Christians some of whom though they could not well disput for it yet had so strong a demonstration of the power of the truth within as made it an easy work to dy for the same 3. This doth clearly shew the Scripture is an unchangeable rule of righteousnes that alters not but takes place in all ages whence such as are wise to bring providence in to the Word and compare the experience and remarks of one time with another may have a great reach and be thus led in a sure path as to the for seeing of events 4. This also doth demonstrat that it is his Word who doth rule and guide the World and hath a soveraign dominion over the fame whilst we may here see such remarkable events which both in the present and in former times have fallen out as may shevv a povver that can reach the greatest vvith a stroke shake the most established Kingdomes and even over the belly of insuperable difficulties accomplish the Word yea that surely the Spirit of the vvheels vvhich moves them is from him vvhose Word this is for it is not more clear that these courtaines of the Heavens are stretcht forth over the Earrh then that the Scripture is stretcht out over the vvhole vvork and frame of providence so as all the motious and steps thereof even of the most casual things that fall out hath a visible tendenâ—y to accomplish these ends vvhich the Scripture hath held forth 5. This clearly sheweth it must be his Word who hath forseen all things that were to beâ—all the Church and the various changes and adventures of every Christians life through time whilst it is so wonderfully shaped and suited to every new tryal of the Church as if intended only for that time and to every case of a godly man as though it had been alone writ for them 6. This also sheweth that he who is the author of the Scripture and hath framed that admirable piece must have some immediat correspondence with the Spirit of Man knoweth our sitting down and riseing up yea doth search the heart and the reines for experience can tell how the Word is directed to the heart doth reach the most inward contrivances thereof doth so clearly reveall and open up a Christian to himselfe that we may say of a truth he is the God of the Spirits of all flesh and one greater then our heart whose it is 7. I shall further adde the fulfilling of the Scripture in the experience of the saints doth shew it is not a dead letter but hath power and life and there must be an enlightning quickning spirit that surely goeth along with the same this clearly demonstrates something above words yea above nature in the written Word that can make such a change upon the soul give life to the dead open the eyes of the blind yea can turn a lump of earth that formerly tended downward now without any violence to move from a principle of life towards God as the sparks flee upward VI. The aceomplishment of the Scripture is a most pleasant and truely delectable subject worthy of our Serious thoughts and study for here is held out the highest truth for the judgement to contemplat the truth and faithfulnes of God in the Word and here is also the greatest good for the affections to embrace and delight in as that wherein our whole happines is certainly wrapt up it is undenyable that it is the godly man who knoweth best what true and solide pleasure is which he doth not losse by turning his heart from the creature to God but maketh a blessed exchange O how far doth the joy and delights of the soul exceed these of the senses and the delight of a Christian how far
of this promise to the Church beyond all we have yet seen that many Scripture-truths now dark and abstruse shall be made so clear as shall even cause us to wonder at the grosse mistakes we once had thereof yea that after generations shall have a discovery and uptaking of some Prophecies now obscure which shall as far exceed us as this time doth go beyond former ages which comparatively we must say were very dark O! when that promise of the incalling of the Jewes shall once take place what a wonder will they be to themselves that their understanding shonld have been under such a vail when the truth shall be clear and evident to them in that day Will it not be a sweet and easy work for the godly to sort together the predictions of the Word and the events And truely there is much now wrapt up in Scripture Prophecyes not yet fulfilled which we may say in after times when the event shall unvail their meaning wil exceed yea confound all these comments many have had upon them 3. Is it not also clear that these Prophecies which of all the Scripture were most obscure and overclouded with dark figures and allegories concerning which there had been such mistake and hesitation by the Church so many perplexing queries have a peculiar respect to the last times And that then they shall be made plain and easy vvhen so notable a key as the event doth open them up such as these of the vvitnesses taking lyse and rising again Babylons fall and ruine Christs Reigning vvith his Saints a thousand Yeares vvhich novv are in some measure already cleared from their begun accomplishment beyond former times but vve vvait for a more full eommentary that tyme shall give upon the same 4. It is in the latter times that the glory of God in his truth and faithfulnes shall most eminently shine forth that is a part of the solemn congratulation of the Church upon Babylons fall Revelat. 15 ver 3. not only great and marvellous are thy works but just and true are thy wayes for truely in this stroke of the judgement of God and these remarkable providences concurring therevvith the fulfilling of the Scripture vvill be so plain and undenyable that we may say it vvill then dazel the eyes of men even greatest Atheists alarme the World yea very effectually contribute we have ground so to judge to that promised encrease of the Church and incoming of the Jewes when in Antichrists fall and ruine they shall see so convincing a seal put to one of the most considerable Prophecies of the Word in the accomplishment whereof much of the Prophetick part of the New Testament relating to the Churches state and her long tryal under Antichrists reign may be seen clearly verified 5. The Lord hath reserved his greatcst Works to the latter dayes wherein his judgments shall be manifest and the Word confirmed by such solemn convincing providences that men will not get them passed without a remark we are this day witnesses to many such and are looking what these times shall yet bring forth that the great and remarkable acts of the Lord must force the World to see a divine power and say lo there is an undoubted accomplishment of the Scripture 6. The Church in these last tymes hath peculiar advantagcs for understanding this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment which former ages had not First a great part thereof is now fulfilled that men may see with their eyes if they but know how to lay the Word and work of God together the Christian Church had in former times but dark glances at these great things which we have this day visibly transcribed in providence the promises were then travelling in birth of that which is now brought forth 2. Are we not mounted as it were on the shoulders of that experience and observation of former times which hath been transmitted to us and we must say upon that account the Church hath now a greater seal and confirmation of the truth then what it had in the dayes of the Prophets and the Apostles even when Christ was in the flesh 3. The Temple of God and Ark of his Testament is now opened in Heaven light more fully abounding and the meanes of knowledge And O! should not this be much our study who have a greater talent then former ages certainly this will be a sin of a deeper dye then in times of ignorance since we can be no strangers to this truth without shutting our eyes blinding the conscience doing violence to our light when the Lord doth give his People such solemn confirmations 7. I shall add is it not clearly soretold in that Dan. 12â— ver 4. that in the last times this will be one of the speciall exercises of the saints to enquire and make a diligent search concerning the Scripturs accomplishment For it s there said many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased importing that this shall be much their study and cause a diligent fearch whereunto the great works of God in these times shall invite them and what should be the posture of the Godly in these dayes on whom the end of the World is come should it not be lyke the watchman in the last watch of the night who looketh oft what appearance there is from the east of the day breaking a serious enquery what of the Scripture is fulfilled whereby we may know on very clear grounds if the night be far spent the day at hand and that the coming of the Lord to judgement draweth near VIII This is a great and concerning duety for Christians to study this truth that they may have something more then repore how the Scripture hath a sure accomplishment and doth take place in the providences of the time wherein we live I must think strange that there is such a great help as this so near and yet we see it not nor do seriously ponder the same when the command is so express to observe the works of the Lord which for that end are shewed forth that men may enquire and read the faithfulnes of God therein yea that so great a truth which would bide the search of all the criticks of the World a truth wherein our blessednes through time and eternity lyeth should offer it self to our tryall and yet is so little known O who can dispense with the neglect of this duty by which we answer that solemn call and invitation of the works of God do honour him serve our generation are helpers to our own faith and are thereby helped to strengthen others yea are brought to see with our eyes and from experience what before was as a strange thing unto us Now to clear how much this is Christians duty to study a practical converse with the Word and to be serious observers of its accomplishment let us consider 1. We are thus helped to declare the works of the Lord and to give him the glory of his faithfulness
and is not that agrave duty Which at all times in every station and condition of life should engadge men to this study thus every Christian may become a witnes to the truth and put his seal thereto for which he should think his life truely desireable and he doth in no small measure attain the true end thereof though he had no other opportunity for his masters service and we may say this truth of the Scriptures accomplishment like a great roll hath been transmitted from hand to hand from one age to another attested and as it were subscrybed by so many witnesses it doth thus come to our time and to every mans doore and require their personal witnessing and sealing of the same 2. This should make it an easy work to trust the Word and to adventure thereon in the ordinary occurrences of their life they may well trust God in strait who have so strong an argument to make use of that oft they have tryed him and the truth of his Word by many many experiences will not these that know his name trust in him Which was a notable testimony from a serious Christian in a very sharp triall oft have I tryed God and shall I not learn to trust him once 3. This doth lay the Christian in the way of that promise Psal 107. last ver a promise truely large and comprehensive but little considered that such as are wise to observe the works of God they shall see the loving kindnes of the Lord even in their own particular case made out to them yea whilst they are serious to observe his works abroad in the World and his way to others they shall be no losers thereby at home but find this promise meet them and to turn their general observation unto personal experience of the loving kindnes of the Lord. 4. Thus the saints by experiencing the truth of the Word get a conyincing seal thereby to their intrest in the promise for begun possession is indeed a strong witnes to this right when they can say they have got as certain returns of the Word when they have put it to an essay in some particulars of their life as they are sure of any thing they did ever see so from unquestionable experience they set up a pillar and write thereon Hither to hath the Lord helpt us 5. Thus should Christians with much advantage be helped to convince gainsayers for its sure Atheisme could not make so bold and publick an appearance if men did not so much take their religion on trust O the serious experienced man can with an other confidence own the truth whose experience and observation of the works of God give him an argument that none can answer while not only he can assert but conduct and lead men to the things themselves that they may see if in such and such particulars the Scripture be not truely fulfilled 6. Thus the providenee of God should have a more sweet refreshing countenance when from this great height that watchtower of Christiau observation we take a look thereof and truely otherwayes men will stumble at the most ordinary dispensations and think Gods Work is a masse of confusion but here we are taught to see how the written Word and his way are linked in a most sweet aggreement 7. We may thus trace Divine truth even by our sense and feeling and joyn the Word and experience in a regular correspondence yea thus we should have a clear transscript of the Lords way with his Church taken out of that great authentick original of the Scripture and there see on what a solid basis and foundation that magnificent structure of providence is raised up what a notable key should we thus have for opening the Scripture by a serious humble inquiry after the works of God Where not only the impression and signals of the power but of the truth and faithfulness of the Lord are so very legible 8. This is a piece of our talent wherewith we are entrusted of which every Christian should study a serious improvement knowing they must render an account what their observation of this great truth hath gained and what furder establishment and confirmation they have thus attained 9. I would adde the concernment and weight of this duty may presse it much on us for if the Scriptures accomplishment be an undoubted truth O! then this is sure the Saints have a great inheritance they are Princes though now under a disguise and though yet minors they are heirs of more then the World can shadow forth the Christian is then more happy on a dunghil scraping his sore then such who are cloathed in purple and fare delicately every day if this be sure we should look with compassion rather then envy on these whom the World doth account happy we need not question the gain of Godlines then it is sure that such who sow in teares shall reap in joy and the righteous though now trampled under in the morning shall have dominion yea in a vvord we may then on sure ground solace our selves with the thoughts of that great change which will be within a little when the grave must render back her prisoners and may with as much assurance of a blessed resnrrection ly doun in the dust as we are sure there will be a morning when we ly down at night O! then there is a Heaven and a hell that is certain eternity is not a night dream and one moment shall shortly put an end to all our services yea the shutting of our eye lids at death shall but open them in the Pardise of God HAving touched this truth a litle in the general I shall now hold forth some arguments whence the accomplâ—shment of the Scripture may be demonstrat they are these five which I intend to prosecute in the following discourse FIRST Argument To prove the Scripture is certainly fulfilled and hath an accomplishment is this that which hath been in all ages the testimony of the Saints what every particular Christian doth seal from their frequent and sure experience what is found and proved by them in there dayly walk upon exactest tryal yea what as many as ever were serious in Religion do witness must be certain and true But the accomplishment of the Scripture is such Therefore c. II. Argument That which is manifest and legible in the whole course and tenor of providence about the Church and by clear convincing instances both of judgement and mercy is made out to the observation of every age must be a certain truth but the Scriptures accomplishment is such Therefore III. Argnment Thar which hath not only the Christians testimony from experienee and of the Church from constant observation but is obvious even to the view of the World which from the conscience of the worst of men doth force a testimony that they can neither shift nor deny which also may be demonstrat to the conviction of ordinary observers hath a publick acknowledgement from
experience of every Christian it would be some way as easy to number the drops of rain and dew since the creation as to reckon all these pretious drops and emanations of love these sensible returns and outmakings of the promise which they have had in their experience I truely think it could hardly be believed though it were told what some of the godly here have found in the way of the Word but it is sufficient to answer the design of this work to shew that there is a sensible demonstration and performance of Scripture promises concerning which the experience of the Saints in all ages doth aggree that by many confirmations the Lord hath oft sealed the truth thereof to their soules There are 10. special promises held forth to the godly in the Word which I shall here instance and therewith hold forth what a clear testimony their experience can give of the undoubted truth and aecomplishment of the same FIRST Instance is that promise given to believing to such who credit the naked word when there is no probable appearance of its outmaking and thus give God the glory of his faithfulnes which we have expresly held out 1 Chron. 20 20. Ps 112. 7 8. Ich. 1 50. To clear the accomplishment of this promise I shall but appeal to that testimony the saints in all ages have leâ—â— thereof yea to the present experience of the godly at this day if they have not certainly found it so 1. That when in a particular they have trusted God therewith and got their spirit quiet in a recumbency on him if he hath not dealt with them according to his word yea if then from cleer convincing returns of the promise they have not been made to say it did never repent them that they gave more credit to the testimony of God then of their own hearts 2. That they have found a more sweet and observable issue then when their help lay most immediatly on the word alone never a more sensible outgate then when least of sense and most of faith was in carrying them through when little of the creature and much of God appeared in their mercy and where they were at the lowest no way of escape but to throw themselves on the promise they have then had the best retreat yea their supply as sensibly felt as their need and burden had formerly been felt 5. That their greatest difficulties and shakings anent the promise have helped to their further confirming and establishment and so as they can say the Lords way by brangling them first yea to their sense loosing their grip hath helped to fasten it better and that which for the time did speak their case most helpelesse hath made way for his more eminent appearance and manifesting of him selfe 4. That their greatest venture and giving most out hath usually had the richest income the most eminent experiences of their life have followed the most adventurous acts of their faith yea upon an after reckoning they have oft found that their adventuring of life estate and credit on the promise of God even in these things hath very observably been their upmaking 5. That where they have most been a friend to their faith there hath faith also been most a friend to them in their standing to the credit of the promise over the belly of greatest objections and false reports raised thereof they have found a very evident mark of Gods respect to the same causing them to see that he will honour such who thus honour him And it is indeed worthy of a remark what we have of Caleb upon record that he took part with the promise of God against that discouraging report which then was raised of the Anakims and their walled cities and therefore the inheritance of the Children of Anak was given to Caleb and his sonnes in their lot from the Lord. 6. That believing doth alwayes make way for sense and in their closing with the naked Word of promise they have not wanted the seal of the spirit of promise but have found a sweet calm their burden sensibly eased when once they got it laid over on the word which they can say hath been their first resting place like the very fixing of the motion of the needle towards its right point when their spirit had been restlesse and in greatest agitation 7. That these greatest disappointments which their hope in the Word seemed to have they have found afterwards most to their advantage when their returns have not only been according to their faith but have often exceeded their adventure and been far beyond what they believed yea that from frequent experience they may say the issue of trusting the Word how long so ever they thought it deferred yet came alwayes in season was never too late and out of time 8. That this did never occasion bitter reflexions or was their upcast before the World that they trusted God in a day of strait and were not helped but this testimony have all such left who have most credited it in a dismall houre that none should scarr after them to hazard upon such a hand and venture on the promise for their faith hath oft taken them well and comfortably through where both sense and reason have been ready to sink SECOND Instance Whereby we may see the performance of the promise in Christian experience is this that God truely heareth prayer is near unto his People in what they call upon him aggreable to his Word and will answer their desires we have this promise most expresse Phil. 4 ver 6. Ps 32 6. Ps 65 2. Ps 91 15. Now the accomplishing of this piece of Scripture is so very clear that I can attest the experience of all the generation of the righteous since the beginning what frequent unanswerable comfirmations they have got of this truth in their Christian walk fo that I am sure no man ever was in earnest in the matter of Religion and a stranger to this yea that he was never more certainly perswaded of any thing then of this that God doth hear prayer O if mens souls were but in their souls stead whose evening wrestlings and teares the Lord hath oft turned into a morning song they should know this is no delusion I shall here touch something of that experience which by many proofs the saints can give as a witness to this promise 1. That when they have oft with Hanna gone in before the Lord in the bitternes of their spirit they have been made to return with a sensible and marvellous change in their case yea when in going about prayer they have been put to wrestle with much distemper and deadnes they have oft seen the wind discernably change and therewith their spirits lightned from under that burden an observable calme and serenity after much invvard perturbation yea they can say that they have found their hearts thavved and put in a flush of tendernes upon the back of a most sensible restraint 2.
so as their very bones might sing Who is like unto the o Lord It is true real pardon of sin doth not allwayes inferre the sensible feeling thereof and when it is remitted in Heaven there is not alwayes a declaration of it in the conscience but it is also sure that this is sensibly felt and that it is tryed by all even all the generation of the righteous to have had as powerful an operation on a disquiet troubled soul as ever wine or the choisest cordial could have on the sick or faint O! if these who question this were in their case to whom God speaketh peace after a storm they should know how real and certain that is I would offer the Christians witnes to this promise from many many experiments by vvhich the Lord hath sealed it to their soul whereby they know assuredly it is no fancy or delusion 1. How this hath as sensible a connexion with the serious exercise of contrition and repentance in their experience as it certainly hath in the word and promise while they find that in silence and keeping up their case from God their bones have been troubled their spirit in a restles and disquiet condition untill once they made an addresse and got their soul vented by confessing to â—he Lord which was then like a kindly turn and cool of a fever 2. They know it is no delusion that is found so certain a cure to a wounded spirit under the sense of sin a wound which the world and all its diversions could never heal whose pain and grief no musick can allay a drop of divine displeasure being enough to turn all their pleasures in wormwood and gall but O! a taste of this unspeakable cordial one warming look of a reconciled God they know by experience can give present ease 3. It is no delusion which they can command no more then the sun to shine when overclouded or the wind to blow but when it listeth which the most perswading moral arguments can no wayes effectuat nor all their former experience yea the letter of most refreshing promises which sometimes are to them but as the white of an egge without taste until once the spirit breath which not only discovereth the ground of their joy in the word but doth also cause them to rejoyce therein when it shineth upon the same 4. It must be no delusion which causeth so marvellous a change that after greatest disquieting fears they have found most sensible manifestations of love the greatest flood on the back of the lowest ebb in their spiritual condition which oft hath forced them to retreat what their feares and jealousies did utter yea have made them enquire with wonder whence they are so chearful to day who yesternight were so broken and crusht whence their spirit should be in so sweet a calm that so lately was like the raging and troubled sea 5. That this hath oft met them as a blest surprizal and unexpected welcom when they have in a backsliding case come in to God they certainly know that when they knew not how to adventure and at what end of their raveled condition to begin counts having run long over yet on their very first addresse have got a sweet disappointment to their feares been helped to their feet yea some times have had as it were the fatted calfe killed to make merry with their friends 6. That which hath an audible voice within so strong an Impression upon the soul which carryeth with it such a clear satisfying discovery of Gods heart and love is surely no delusion while the intimation of that one truth Your sins are forgiven or any other word of promise for that end they have found to be an argument beyond words which they could not resist but for the time have been as sure they see and feel this as that they live yea can no more now call it in question then formerly they could get it believed 7. That is no delusion which causeth them with another kinde of freedome approach to God maketh them know there is a Spirit of adoption which sets the soul at liberty from the sore bondage and thraldome under which their former backsliding had put them yea a thing not only sensibly felt by themselves but may be discerned by others while they cannot smoother the joy of their heart or hide in their couutenance such a change of their condition that truely God hath dealt comfortably with them 8. Hath not this the Saints in all ages witnessed even a joy unspeakable and full of glory which though but of short continuance yet for the present so strong as hath ravished their soul with the hope of the inheritance above and clear view of their interest in it yea sometimes made them sing for joy in expectation of that blessed day but O! this is better felt then expressed 9. And in a word can that be a delusion that hath oft turned the poor mans hell into a Heaven which trysts the Christian in the way of his duty and the work doth so exactly answer the promise most sensibly felt after greatest shakings of the conscience by the law and can make a sad outward lot so very sweet and pleasant cause them triumph over the wrath of men to sing in a dungeon to abound and have all things under greatest wants look grim death chearfully in the face in its most dreadful aspect yea doth make so great and visible a difference betwixt the Christian and himself SIXTH Instance Is that promise of encouragement and support under the crosse which is expresly held forth in the Word that the Lord will own his People bear their charges and be with them in trouble in the day of their suffering for his truth yea will bind up the broken in heart heal their wounds Psal 91 ver 15. Isai 43 ver 2. Cap. 41 ver 17. Cap. 49 ver 14. Psal 9 ver 9. Isai 51 ver 12. Now that this promise is a truth and hath a certain accomplishment the experience of the Saints in all ages will witnes and we know their testimony is true what at solemn times of Gods presence they have had in a barren wildernes how great a cloud of witnesse doth seal this and give their testimony to the crosse of Christ of which we may say the fame and sweet savour hath gone forth and spread abroad through the Church the Fathers have told it to the Children and one generation to another but hovv litle a part thereof can be expressed I think it would be a marvellous record if the suffering and prison experiments of the Saints vvere particularly set dovvn vvhat they have sound under the crosse but it is vvell vve knovv this promise hath been and this day is evidently sealed concerning which I dare attest the experience of as many as did ever drink of this blessed cup and were counted worthy to suffer for the testimony of Christ if this be not a faithful true witnes
followed them to the grave for this the sword shall not depart from Davids house Idolatry rent the Kingdome from the posterity of Salomon Jonas shall not escape for his rebellion yea God was wroth with Moses and no intreaty shall hinder his dying in the wildernes I may adde hath not the Lords controversy on this ground even reached their posterity which may shew that these threatnings are sad earnest and such sins are not more particularly pointed at in the word then they have been in after ages made exemplary in judgement 3. A peoples lukwarmenesse their slighting of the gospel and not receiving the love of the truth we find sadly threatned in the word Rev. 3 ver 15 16. 2 Thess 2 ver 10 11. and truely we must say they have not fallen to the ground in any age without an accomplishment as frequent observation can witness First how a peoples entring upon a Religious way their pursuing a form of reformation and not through for God therein but on carnal grounds hath thus put them in a worse condition then before for truely mens hypocrisy in going about a good work doth threaten more then the performance thereof doth promise Jehu got a temporal reward but his posterity must at length reckon for all the blood of Jezreel 2. That no people use to be furder from getting good of the gospel then such who have been under most clear and greatest convictions so as it is found there is oft more accesse to gain amongst the savages then these who have sit their day while the tide did flow yea ministers have found most discouragement to labour in these parts where the word hath been long preached with power 3. It is seen how light not improved will turn a People more grosse and is usually followed with some remarkable grouth in sin that the more the word doth put a restraint on mens corruption the more it rageth so as it may be observed what a very black dy and collour the powerful preaching of the Gospel hath put upon a People as a visible mark of judgement on such who profit not thereby 4. Is it notseen how mens formality in the matters of God hath been oft punished even with the taking away of the forme Yea that seldome errour and delusion doth want a harvest amongst a People who receive not the truth in love 5. Hath not slighting of the Gospel been at last followed with some visible restraint and inhibition both upon the ordinances and dispensers thereof a judicial withdrawing of the Spirit as to the work of conversion and conviction whereby the Lord doth plainly cease to be a reprover to such yea even saith bind up the Law and seal the Testimony 4. The Word doth also threaten carnal Security a disease whereof the Church is oft in great hazard yea we find it holds forth a certain connexion betwixt spiritual judgements upon a People and some outward strokes to follow thereon that these who are under that first woe and plague upon their spirits are then near to some judgement upon their persons and may expect a sharp wakening in hearing they shall not understand c. but the close is until the cities be consumd without inhabitants and there be an utter desolation yea we find judgement doth begin as a moth in that 5. of Hos. but in the 14. ver it doth turn at last to be a lyon We may truely say the fulfilling of this hath in all ages of the Church been obvious 1. That as the first part of the Churches deliverance is usually spiritual so it is found the first step of judgement and the execution thereof against a People hath been upon their spirits that serious discerners of the time might know that the night was fast coming on and some sad outward stroke on a land by the abounding of spiritual judgements 2. It is clear themost dreadful strokes that ever come on a particular Church doe usually find it in such a case judicially hardned and under many warnings plagued with security thus did the floud finde the old World and before that desolating stroke on Jerusalem by the Romans were not the Jewes in such a case Salvain can tell how it was with the African Churches before that dreadful inundation of the Gothes and Vandals yea the Churches records in all ages doe witness that before any sad stroke or persecution came upon a People a deep sleep and lethargie hath been previous thereto gray haires might have been seen upon them and the Word doth even shew that this will be the last disease whereof the Church shall be sick before the great day of the Lord. 3. It is also seen how spiritual judgements when they grow upon a people make great dispatch and do quickly ripen for some further stroke that when men have run down their conscience and are past reproof of the word going on from evil to worse the case cometh then to be clear and ready for the finall discussion of the processe 5. The word doth denounce woe against the troublers of the Church and these who are her persecutors that the Lord shall recompence tribulation to such and plead with her oppressours the accomplishment whereof hath been truely manifest yea to the observation even of the world Is 10 5. 2 Thess 1 ver 6. 1. That eminent oppressours of the Church have seldome gone out of the World without some remark of divine anger upon them surely if there were a record of such instances that in every age hath been conspicuous men should be forced to see and say that the most noted enemyes and persecutors of the saints have been also the most convincing and noted examples of judgement in the time 2. That the Churches suffering useth to go before a day of vengeance on the instruments thereof we find Jehu got an outward reward for executâ—ng the judgement of God on his enemyes but as for these men who have been the rod of the Church it hath been seen that they have not long wanted some scourge as sore upon themselves as they have been to his People and that at last these have payed dear-for their service 3. We may see how this also doth help to finish the contraversy of God with men and their houses that for this he hath taken many away in the midst of their dayes and made them cease to be who would not cease to trouble the Church while they had a being yea that He hath taken them in his own hand whom men could not reach and made their down-casting in the midst of themselves 6. Doth not the Scripture threaten carnal confidence in a People the putting of their trust in man or in any outward instruments Ier. 17 ver 5 6. Is 30 ver 16 17. to clear the accomplishment whereof let us but compare the word and the Churches observation together and we will find 1. That outward meanes have never more miscaried then when most promising and when there was greatest
truely this is oft seen as an usual attendant on reformation how unsuperable like difficultyes and unexpected lets do grow up in the vvay thereof thus â—hen Luther and other instruments were raised up in Germany to pursue the Churches Reformation what cruel edicts were then set forth to give it a dash division among themselves the rising up of the Boors and Anabaptists what a pure and through reformation was on foot under Edvvard the sixth in England vvhat a dreadful storm did quickly break it up for that time and I vvouldadde vvhat the present case of the Church in Brittain and Ireland may at this day vvitness vvhere once the Lord so eminently appeared in a begun Reformation vvhich novv is at so great a stand but let us go in to the scripture vvith this and vve vvill find 1. There is a vive portraicture of providence in the affaires of the Church held forth in that vision which Ezekiel had of the wheeles at the river Chebar whose misterious motions and turnings so cross one to the other without any discord therein as to the end to which they were directed doth witnes the rational and wise conduct of providence the Lords work about his Church is a most shadowed and elaborat piece which men cannotsee before their eye as they see behind upon a review while ordinary causes do oft vary in their operation yea goe out of the common road yet the Scripture will make this very plain 2. Was not Nehemiah Ezra and Zerobabel at their work and duty and had an expresse call for building of the temple yet how great and frequent interruptious did they find sometimes environed with difficulties Zach. 4 ver 7. Who are thou great mountain before Zerobahel Yea they were put to hold the sword and build to watch and work at once because of their enemies 3. What a very sore backset was the Church at Hab. 3. Revive they work ô Lord in the midst of the yeares this was both a great and long interruption yea doe we not find her almost at a non plus with a queree which no visible appearance could answer by whom shall Iacob arise for he is smell 4. We find a special reformation set on foot by Hezekiah with a solemn Covenant by the Princes Priests and body of the People with a setting up of the pure Worship and ordinances of God but lo a sharp storm is soon after by Sennacherib yeaâ— Hezekiah scarcely is in his grave when his Son doth bring in corruption and persecution both at once yea when the Christian Church in the times of the Apostles begun to flowrish successe following the Gospel did not a sad interruption and scattering follow Act 8. 5. This is promised that Zions walls shall even in troublsome times be built and her being brought to a heap of rubbish was but making way for a further advance that in the building of her again the Lord might appear in his glory and is it not clear that Christs coming in the Gospel and power thereof to purge his Church and to carry on a reformation Mal. 3. ver 2. proveth a searching and trying time which men cannot endure for the power of the Word and clear discovery of sin and other shaking dispensations which doe usually attend such times and torment them who dwell on the earth yea and put the Devil and corruption of men aloft with all rage to oppose the same 3. That a sad overclouding and darknes should come on a land after most special manifestation of the power and glory of God therein and that a time of the Gospel with much light should be so neer a forerunner of wrath and judgement would seem a strange piece of providence and cause a serious enquiry hovv such eminent appearances of God for a people such great confirmations observable success for a time vvith many signal encouragements should all seem to resolve in a desolating stroke and ruine This may be instanced in that protestant vvar in France vvhere instruments vvere remarkably raised fitted of the Lord for the service of that time had much of his presence and countenance yet to resolve thus in a bloody massacre likevvayes these confederat German Princes Saxony and Landgrave of Hesse Men eminent for piety caried forth vvith much zeal for God for defence of the truth yea in the beginning of that vvar having many promising encouragements yet remarkably deserted of the Lord vvith very sad-like consequences follovving the same Let us consider also the late Bohemian vvar stated upon necessary defence of religion and liberty and at first attended with some smiling providences should resolve into so great a desolation and ruine yea the Church of Ireland O what a dreadful massacre of the protestants there did quickly follow one of the most solemn times of the power of God and outpowring of the spirit that we ever heard of since the dayes of the Apostles I confesse this may have a strange aspect and is a part of the marvellous wayes of the Lord but when we take it in to the word we will find there is no jar or discord here for 1. It might seem as strange and astonishing what Baruch got from the Lord in answer to his compliant Ierem. 45. that he would pluck up what he had planted and cast down that which he had built for a work to be thus throwen down where the Lord had once so eminently appeared given his People many confirmations might then occasion great thoughts of heart yet the unspotted righteousnes of God and his truth was apparent therein yea after that discourse and all these large promise which Christ gave his disciples in that sixteenth of Iohn we find all is shut up with that the houre is comming and now is that ye shall be scattered 2. What strange providences did tryst the Church in the wildernes sometime brought back to the red sea tryed with hunger and nakednesse consumed with various strokes and many yeares wandring until most of that generation who came out of Egypt filled their graves in the journey and yet this was after most eminent confirmations and as clear singes of Gods presence as ever a People had 3. We find a publick reformation most zealously prosecute by Iosias which looked like the renewed espousales of that land with God by a solemn Covenant yet quickly after night came on that land with a long captivity and Josias did fall by the sword 4. Was there nor a bright sun-blink flowrishing plantation of the Gospel in Judea a little before the desolation of that land by the Romans yea we will find it clear from the word that times of much light and reformation doe much sooner ripen for a stroke then any other times 5 It is very manifest that particular Churches have their day where the Gospel hath its appointed work and their stroke at last may reach the length of removing the candlestick I truely think that sad instance of Bohemia's case may
upon the waters should make them appear as blood to the Children of Moab But we see what great things the Lord is thus bringing about 3. Is it not oft manifest how not the smallest casuality or circumstance providence doth losse without some improvment thereof yea that it guideth the stroke of mans sword in the battel and directeth the bullet to its appointed mark and it doth evidently check the starres and control that fatal necessity which we are ready to fear may or will follow their aspect and it doth even determine these which in themselves are most free and absolute the heart and wil of man must not the crowing of the cock the foldiers dividing of Christs garments fall out for an accomplishment of the Scripture and though it was at a venture that that man drew the bow which sent Ahab to his grave yet it was no chance did direct the arrow between the very joynts of his armour 4. Amidst the various emergents and hazards of mens life may not experience tell that surely things contingent are not abandoned to fortune but there is a providence which doth number our haires without which they cannot fall to the ground O how astonishing may it be to think hovv surprizing hazards have been oft obviated by vvhat unexpected meanes men have been delivered from violent assaults hovv help unlooked for hath even trysted at a choke and an extremity yea vvhile their foot vvas slipping even betvvixt their falling and fall they have been trysted vvith some remarkable cast of mercy 5. Is it not easy to discern hovv many accidents vvhich seem most casual yet by no humane prudence or industry can be prevented but are observably brought about and guided to fulfil the threatnings of the vvord on ungodly men hovv vvas Sisera led in to the house of Iael by other places hovv should Hamans suit for Mordecais death tryst vvith that very morning vvhen the Kings thoughts vvere favourable to him for it might seem had Haman been one day sooner he vvould have got his vvill THE THIRD ARGUMENT FOr the Scriptures accomplishment is this that not only the Christians experience and observation of the Cnnrch beareth witness thereto but it is also a truth which even to the view and conviction of the World may be demonstrat from whom it doth oft force a testimony yea in every age the worst of men have been forced to acknowledge and so it must be a thing very evident But the accomplishment of the Scripture can be thus witnessed therefore c. It is true these sweet and sensible enjoyments which the Saints have of this truth the World cannot reach but it is also sure that in every age the works of the Lord and some more notour convincing providences both of judgement and mercy doe solemnly invite men to observe the accomplishment of the word therein yea no time hath wanted something of a publick vvitnesse from ungodly men even greatest mockers of Religion vvho under that constraining povver of conscience at death or in some day of their strait have been forced to seal the truth by a very open confession of the righteousnes of God tovvards them and this is indeed the Lords blessed design in making his vvorks sometime so conspicuous that they may not only confirm the faith of his people but render Atheism inexcusable that the glory of his faithfulnes as vvell as of his povver and vvisdome may shine forth before the sons of men I confesse vve may vvonder vvhy the World looketh so litle upon this and hovv the conviction of so great a truth vvhich they cannot shun doth not more presse them but the Holy Ghost doth fully resolve this the brutish man knovveth not neither do fooles lay to heart hovv the Scripture taketh place and that the flovvrishing of vvicked men is but in judgement for their further ruine To prosecut this argument a litle there are some special truths I vvould instance vvherein the faithfulnes of God in fulfilling his vvord may be seen by the World yea is obvious to the most ordinary observers and though they be but a fevv vvhich I shall here touch yet I must say they are such concerning truths and have so neer a reference to the foundation of our faith that men cannot acknovvledge the same but must also confesse the Scriptures Divinity and that there is a truth and reality in godlines and in Christian Religion truely I may here vvith some confidence challenge the greatest Atheists yea appeale them to their conscience and serious thoughts if in these following instances though but a litle of what might be said on such a subject the truth and accomplishment of the Scripture be not very manifest FIRST I shall first hold forth this truth that man is surely fallen from that excellent estate wherein once he was formed Rom. 5 ver 18. 19. and now is not that which he was at the beginning a truth so clear that we may say even without the discovery of the word might be easy for any serious onlooker to discern the same did not even heathens have some glance at this The evidence whereof they could not altogether shun It is true the cause and original of this dreadful contagion how sin entered into the World how it is derived to the whole race of man by imputation as well as inhesion how that poison is carried from the fountain to the cistern the Scriptnre doth only discover but this I am sure may be obvious to all that poor man is thus sick and diseased and now beareth the marks of such a fall and ruine as we read of in the word I confesse it is strange that when this is so very convincing and manifest it should not force men to some more serious enquiry whence such a thing is or if there can be a recovery of so sad and desperat like case but to clear this a litle I would offer these three things to be considered 1. That there is some remainder of that excellent fabrick which may yet appear among its ruines some print and appearance though dark of that primitive lustte and beauty some draughts wich sin hath not wholly worn out that may clearly tell what man once was and point out his former excellency that he hath been an other wight of whom Absaloms character might be truely said without all blemish from the head to the foot For we see the deep impressions of a Deity still rooted in men even among the most wilde and savage which no invention can utterly raze we see some common principles of reason that are imprinted in the most rude and ignorant some innate notions and Ideas which the soul hath of good and evil among all and in every place of the earth likewise these natural truths 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which we may see are no wayes imprest on the soul from any objects of sense but such whereto men by an unavoidable necessity are forced to assent and besides what meaneth the
wherein they live I shall here point at this truth as it is in the providence of God written in such great letters as are obvious to the view of the World so as most common onlookers cannot passe this without a remark it is true much may be laid over to that great general aâ—fize of the last judgement that day of retribution yea sometimes we see the most wicked and vile go in peace to the grave the soveraignity of God doth also appear very observably in the different measure and kind of punishment and it is too evident how prone men are to look more to the interest that second causes have in such a thing then to a divine hand but this is also sure that the Lord is known on the earth by the judgement which he executeth and in every age doth set up such convincing examples before men that the greatest Atheist may see yea oft their conscience must break the jayle restrain it as they will and force this acknowledgement that such judgements can be no casual thing while something of a power higher then man and a clear verifying of the word is so discernable therein Now to demonstrat this truth I would offer somethings which may shew how very near this cometh to the observation of men so as none can be a stranger thereto or want conviction of this piece of the truth of God except they willingly shut their eyes while it is clear 1. That the very Heathens who never knew the Scripture nor a written Law have 〈◊〉 so much of a natural conscience that not only they can put some difference between vertue and vice but even in some measure can discern Gods putting some difference betwixt the same how flagitious crimes use to be punished by a divine hand we may say time could never yet wear out the observation of this truth through the World and though many things may be received and credited which not having a sure ground do quickly evanish it being truths priviledge still to outlive falsehood yet it is sure how in the darkest parts of the earth this hath been still noticed with a remark and transmitted from one age to another yea the records of the nations even by heathen writers shew what remarkable punishment hath followed cruel oppression Covenant-breaking and bloodshed and such other grosse sins against the second table yea how these have been the usual forerunners of great strokes on Kingdomes and familyes 2 Doth not the World see that in these remarkable judgements which have come on a nation and People there is something higher then instruments or second causes which may be very evident in bringing the same about so that all who goe by must confesse such is no casual tryst nor doth arise out of the dust but that surely a divine hand is there and truely though some desolating strokes are very terrible in themselves and blood and ruines should be no matter of pleasure yet whereas thereby that stately sound is heard even his voice who maketh the earth to tremble and God is made known to the sons of men we should not only with fear but even some holy congratulation consider his work now to clear what a convincing witness these are to this truth I shall point at some very obvious remarkes which I am sure the World cannot contradict of the Lords own immediat hand in such judgements 1. That strange concurrence and tryst of providence which useth to appear when God is against a People how all things will then conspire as in a fatal conjunction to â—â—â—k the woe and ruine that men may see surely this 〈◊〉 â—rom the Lord who is wonderful in counsel from a hand against which there is no striving 2. How such remarkable strokes are seen to tryst with some great and remarkable height of sin in such a nation and People so that it is easy then for all onlookers to confesse the righteousnes of God therein 3. That vvhen judgement is coming on a land it may be seen hovv instruments are raised and in a more then ordinary vvay acted vvith all advantages for such a piece of service 4. A visible blasting then both of counsel and strength and these meanes vvhich othervvayes looked most probable hovv remarkably such are confounded even in the use of their ordinary abilities their heart and usual courage taken from them vvhile the Lord is on a vvork of judgement 5. That astonishing successe vvhich is usually seen to follovv these vvhom the Lord sendeth forth to execut his judgement hovv then they move svviftly and vvith vigour they doe not stumble or vveary it is neither rivers nor walled cities can stand in their way mountaines are made vallies to shew it is the Lord whose hand in that day is strong upon them to strengthen their loines and make the sword and axe sharp for his service 6. Amidst these various strokes which come on a land can men passe that of the Pestilence without some special note where Gods immediat hand something supernatural above ordinary or natural causes may be clearly seen both in its strange progresse in spreading which like a lightning doth oft go throvv cities and countryes in a small time do not these tell aloud to the World that they come not unsent and vvithout some special commission and that there is no stryving against them nor are ordinary meanes effectual in some such extraordinary plagues until he vvho brought it on do also by his ovvn hand take it off 3. It is very obvious even to the world that clear resemblance which is oft betwixt sin and the stroke how holy justice doth keep a proportion and doth shape out the judgement so exactly both in measure and kind that it may be easy to see the stroke pointing as with an hand to the cause by its discernable likenes and both at the righteous judgement of God which thus measureth out to men as they have dealt with others we see how the Lord trysted Agag and Adonibezek how Sodoms burning lust was punisht with fire from heaven yea what even David had measured out for his murther and adultery the svvord shall not depart from his house and for the other his wives by his own son abused and truely every ages observation can witness this truth from many convincing examples that there is a God who judgeth in the earth it being oft seen if men would seriously observe 1. How an universal overspreading of sin in a land hath usually some national and universal stroke following 2. That blood waiteth on bloody men and suffereth them not oft to live out half their dayes one oppressour punished by another the unmerciful man payed home in his own coyn by such as shall shew as little mercy to him or his 3. How the proud and insolent who do most hunt after outward glory are usually trysted vvith some humbling abasing stroke he povvreth contempt on princes and such vvho vvill not honour God shall not brook that honour
That such signes and prodigies have been in every age visible to the World experience and the gravest histories both of auncient and later times do fully witnes 2. That such things should also be previous to great revolutions in the World we know the Scripture is most expresse Ioel 2 ver 30. Luk. 21 ver 11. And as we should guard against any sinperstitious respect we would also bevvare of stupid Atheistical inadvertency at these strange works of the Lord which call both for fear and observation 3. That such have been usually previous to great calamities and judgements on a People is a thing that all ages must witness even these who have been most cautious and discerning in their time who could not shun this as a remark Herodotus doth set that down as a think most sure in his sixth Boek Cum Deus puniturus est gentem urbem prodigiis id solet â—ignificare and Lucan could tell what went before the Romans civill wares Superique minaces Prodigiis terras implerunt yea it can hardly be instanced any great change or revolution in the earth which hath not had some such extraordinary Herald going before 4. Can the World deny how sometimes these prodigious signes have been shaped out to point at the very nature of the stroke then imminent by a strange resemblance to the same such as a flaming sword in the air the appearance of armyes fighting even sometimes upon the earth to the view of many most sober and judicious onlookers also showers of blood the noise of Drummes and such like which are known usually to go before warr and commotions NINTH That there are evil spirits Eph. 6 12. Rev. 20 ver 2 3. and a Diabolical power such as the Scripture hath held forth whose constant work is the ruin and undoing of man is a truth not only witnessed from that experience Christians have of their assaults but is undenyable by the world and greatest Athiests except they deny the discovery of sense as well as reason I confesse it may cause fear and astonishment to think on this that spirits so knowing and once originally excellent have fallen thus into such an height of indignation against infinit goodnesse that it is now their only aim and pleasure to dishonor God and destroy his image in man It should indeed cause us fear him that spared not the Angels who sinned But the truth it selfe is sure that such a party is at this day encompassing the earth and trafficking up and down there to prove which by arguments were to light a candle to let men see that it is day while it is known what ordinary familiar converse many have therewith and alace too easy to discern that power which the prince of this world hath upon the children of disobedience how obvious are the marks of his conquest almost every where Thousands lying in his chaines how far do we see many transformed even to the very image of the Devil which in these desperat prodigious acts of wickednes that are oft in the world may appear such whereat we should think humane nature though corrupt could not but tremble yea look on with horrour how many in all ages have even been in an expresse covenant with them and is not there a great part of the earth where the Devil is visibly and audibly known where he hath a kind of neighbourhood with men But there being no need for such a demonstraâ—ion I onely here aim to hold forth what a concerning truth this is and of great consequence if seriously considered yea how both the Scripture and Christian Religion is hereby evidently confirmed since these things must necessarly follow 1. That in this the Scripture is truely fulfilled which doth witnes what these Spirits are adversaries to man in their nature and inclination desperatly evill whose actings in the earth have a visible tendency to mens hurt and ruin yea their pretended favours alwayes directed to that end whence we see such a natural inbred horrour which is in man against them 2. That it is no common thing which they so much pursue something more pretious then the body for which so great and cruel an adversary is in continuall labour for their actings have no such tendency to ruin mens estate in the World no it is most evident this is the soul the immortal soul to undoe them in that great interest wich is the mark whereaâ— they level that poor man might be sharer of that misery under which they are concluded 3. Is it not an undenyable consequence of this truth that there must be an invisible World that hath inhabitants of another kinde then such as are here that sure there is some being above man yea a real correspondence betwixt men and Spirits and should not man thus placed in a middle estate betwixt the Angels and the beasts here below partaking in his body with the one but in his reasonable soul with the other thence raise himselfe to thoughts of some more excellent condition for which he is framed then a sensual life and that surely the soul hath an interest in an other world which he should most look after 4. Must not this also be sure that there is an invisible guard and these desperat Spirits are under restraint by a power stronger then they which can bound their malice for this may be certain that these who have so great enmity to man are so near and have such advantages over us could not keep at such a distance but that they are keept in chaines by a higher power 5. How is it that now by the Gospel and within this precinct of the Church Sathans power is so much restrained in respect of former times while it is known what a familiar converse they had with men did even haunt their houses and were so publick in their appearance under such names of Fairies and Brounies which since the breaking up of the light of the Gospel hath not been yea hath not the Devil to this day an open throne and dominion in these parts of the earth where Christ is not worshiped it is also known how the oracles of old did cease and that publick worship which the world for many ages had given them with the very time of Christs apearance and breaking up of the Gospel these night beasts getting to their dennes when once the day was broke up Plutarch and other heathen writers are a witnes to this 6. Whence is it that within the Church where Sathan is most restrained yet there he doth more stur then in all the world besids Doth it not shew that that is the party with which he is at war hence doth he more rage the more clear the light shineth yea is there not seen something besids mens natural enemity at the truth even a fury and violence wherewith some are visibly driven in their actings with such an unsatiable cruelry against the followers of Christ without the least shadow of provocation as holds
and at a time when it is expected grossest of men would speak truth yea that this doth appear while men cannot in the least charge the dying Christian with any distemper in his judgement but while they have been most composed stayed and present in minde and as to other things of their concernment most deliberat and sober even then they have born this witnes THE FOURTH ARGUMENT I shall here offer to prove the Scriptures accomplishment is this That whereof the most part as to these special predictions and promises that concern the Church is fulfilled and hath now taken place in their appointed times which we may at this day clearly tead in the event and but a litle part thereof now remaineth to be made out must be a sure truth But the Scripture is thus fulfilled and the prophecyes thereof now made legible in the history of providence and in the works of God about his Church Therefore c. I would premit here some few things ere I speak particularly to this argument 1. Though the Scripture is thus wonderfully suited by the Lord and taketh place in every generation as if it were alone directed to that time yet it is also clear that a special part thereof hath its proper accomplishment in these ages and periods of time to which it doth in a peculiar way relate some part of it which did concern the times of the Old Testament some that doth also answer to the times of the Gospel and a part of it which hath a peculiar respect to these latter dayes which the Lord is now bringing forth and we wait for a more full accomplishment that it is on a near approach 2. It is also sure that the whole work of God and his providence about his Church here in the World which was perfect from the beginning and before him from eternity is comprehended under the written word where the Lord hath fully revealed his minde and counsel anent every event and concernment of the Church though we oft be in the dark in finding out the same but the event will in due time speak for it selfe which should cause us until then with much sobriety passe our judgement on some of these truths that are not yet fulfilled 3. It is clear that the Prophets of old did not onely foretell such great changes and revolutions as were to go over the Churches head and declare the certainty thereof but we find these prophecyes oft point at the times and periods of time whereto they did relate and though sometimes in dark tearmes yet did clearly shew that there was a certain prefixed time not at every time they could have their performance 4. We would consider how the full accomplishing of the Scripture and the perfecting the Lords work about his Church will be at once and doth keep foot together and then shall a full and satisfying discovery of Gods way and providence and all that he hath been doing in the World clearly break up when the great mystery of God in his written word is finished and the Church so near to land That I may speak a little to so grave a subject I would lay down these two things to be considered 1. How much of the Scripture and predictions thereof may be now seen clearly verifyed in the event 2. What doth yet remain to have an accomplishment in these last times by which we may certainly judge hovv near the Lords vvork about his Church is to a close anent the first I shall point at some of these most concerning events changes vvhich the Church hath met vvith vvherein vve may see vvhat of the Scripture may at this day be read in the history of providence and is certainly fulfilled I. WHAT IS ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED I. Let us go back to these first times after the fall and see that dreadful stroke which came upon the old World by the flood after an universal defection from God and we shall there find the fulfilling of that which Noah that great preacher of righteousnes had oft foretold and of these threatnings which by Moses were there recorded wherein it may be very manifest 1. That this truth besides Divine authority no records of auncient times no antiquity could ever contradict yea some of the eldest writers doe clearly witnes something of an universal deluge over the earth with the strange preservation of some from it however they were in the dark as to many circumstances thereanent Josephus doth cite Berosus the Ciâ—aldean about this who without doubt had theÌ„ some of these oldest records true uncorrupt Eusebius also doth mention some fragments of Abidenus and Appollidorus which in his time were extant clearly pointing at the flood and at Noah under the name of Zisuthrus with his sending out of birds to see if the waters were asswaged 2. There is nothing here doth contradict reason how this might be brought about even in the way of ordinary natural causes which the Lord did make use of for that end for we find the windowes of Heaven were opened the air being condensed into clouds and their retentive power loused these great floodgates were thus set louse which falling not in drops but all in a full body like the spouts and cataracts of the West-Indies might soon overwhelm the earth with aboundance of water while these fountaines also of the great deep beneath were broken up which was not only the Ocean let forth to go over its banks but an universal vent to all the veines of the earth and that great masse of waters which is in the bowels thereof which from beneath meeting these that were from above may give men a clear and rational account how such a thing might be 3. This piece of the Scripture is most congruous and aggreable to the whole and the great scope and drift of the same for it points out an height of sin and of wrath an universall defection and an universal stroke meeting together it leads us forward to Christ of whom the ark was an excellent shadow and of that salvation which in and by him the Church hath from eternal wrath and is a very manifest pledge and sign of that last destruction of the World which though not in that manner yet shall once surely be and find men in such a condition as this flood found them into in the dayes of Noah II. What we have expresly promised in the word of the Churches delivery from Egypt and vvas foretold by Joseph at his death that God should surely bring back his People out of that land for vvhich he left his bones to ly unburied as a pledge thereof hath novv many ages past been fulfilled It is long since that remarkable day vvhen God made a vvay for his People through the red sea and his povver knovvn upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians since Moses vvith the Church did sing that triumphant song the horse and his rider he hath cast in the sea vvherein these things are most clear 1.
extraordinary providence that all onlookers must with fear and astonishment confesse that this is Gods own work yet it is also clear that he will therein make use of instruments fitted and chosen for that end who shall be raised and acted forth with a more then ordinary Spirit to execute the vengeance of the Lord even the judgement written amongst whom the feeble shall then be strong yea we have ground to expect that of the Kings of rhâ—â—arth and the race and successours of these who in former times had given their power to the Beast shall the Lord raise up to hate the whoore and make her desolate O blessed are they who shall have a hand in so noble a work to sack and destroy that accursed City built up with the blood of the Saints and martyres of Iesus Christ 4. We are not to bound the Lord as to any particular time for accomplishing this piece of his word yet we have clear ground to believe that Babylons ruin maketh hast and the day of the Lord upon her is near whose sword is bathed in Heaven and that the instruments of his vengeance are making ready one stroke upon that party is already past Antichrist hath begun to fall before the word and must fall further until that great â—â—roke which shall destroy his seat and lay wast that land be accomplished some promising evidences of its near approach I vvould here point at 1. The many prayers of the saints vvhich are novv before the throne and cannot want a return many who wrestled oft with the Lord on this accompt though they are away yet are their prayers to the fore and waits for this solemn manifestation of the judgement of God and the blood of the Saints doth not cease to cry yea hath as loud a cry as ever 2. It is clear that the preached Gospel now since the light began to break forth doth ripen and help to make the harvest more white then many ages formerly and truely if we consider how long the word hath been sounding a retreat to that party to come out of Babylon and that for these 150 Years they have been still acting in opposition to so clear a light to such a solemn call so many warnings yea to such convincing discovery of the Lords being against them in very remarkable providences doth it not shew at what an height their sin this day is and an obstinat rejecting of cure 3. We cannot but see how that judgement which should be poured forth on Antichrist under the vials is in a great measure now verifyed in the event 4. It is clear and consonant to the Scripture that the Lords work is now hastening in the latter dayes providence in aâ—â—ist motion and maketh great advance more quick changes in the case of the Church both as to stormes and calmes and her tryals now must not be so long as in former times Rom. 9 ver 28. he will cut short his work in righteousnes for a short work will the Lord make in the earth 5. That Antichrist and his followers do this day seem to be at such an advantage the Lords work as it were at a stand yea rather going back this late reviving of Antichristian Prelacy in Brittain and Ireland with so visible a grouth of popery there and so dark an houre upon the reformed Churches abroad I think on very solid grounds is a promising evidence of the near approach of a furder stroak on that party for it is clear both from the word and Gods ordinary way of â—â—ocedure how a sharp storm is usually previous to some remarkable enlargement of the Church a very low ebb before the turning of the tide yea that every step of her advance whereby she hath gained ground on Antichrist hath still had some conflict and wrestling going before and thus the Lord by suffering doth ripen his People for such times of mercy for which time O let us pray and wait when the smoke of that accursed City shall ascend up to Heaven and his People be made to triumph in his praise and sing that song Halelujah salvation glory and honour to the Lord God who hath judged the great whoore rejoyce over her thou Heaven and ye holy Apostles and Prophets for God hath avenged you upon her II. We have a clear ptophecy anent the incalling of the Iewes and their conversion to Christ in the latter dayes held forth by the Prophets and in the New Testament very expresly mentioned for the fulfilling whereof the Church must yâ—t wait and long after when God shall being again the captâ—vity of his auncient People and say to that valley of dry bones live anent which we would consider Isas 11 ver 15. Rom. 11 ver 24. Rev. 16 ver 12. 1. That this promise doth not onely concern particular persons or a few but the body and generality of that people is most clear from the Scripture if men would compare Isai 11 ver 11. Zach. 12 ver 10. with Rom. 11 ver 25. where it is undenyable that their gathering must be as full and remarkable as their scattering and as there is no nation so remote whither some of them are not this day that shal not hinder the fulfilling of the promise but as Esai sheweth the Lord shall then assemble the dispersed and outcasts and bring them back from the four corners of the earth and furdest places thereof yea doth not the Apostle expresly shew that it is all Israel whereat this promise pointeth for though they are enemyes concerning the Gospel yet are they beloved for the fathers sakes because of the Covenant which was made with Abraham and his seed and truely we have in this ground also to expect something further then their conversion that in this day the Lord shall raise the tabernacle of David which is fallen and plant them upon their own land Amos 9 ver 11 15. not only bring them to a visible Church state but even therewith some temporal restitution and recollection of them as a Nation yea may expect a return of the old blessing of that lands fruitfulnes which I think is clearly held forth in that of Ames 9 ver 13. that the plewman shall overtake the reaper the very hils drop down sweet vvine and melt as it vvere in outvvard blessings on them 2. That this promise hath not yet had an accomplishment is also clear from the Word for it must follovv the rejection of that People and should not take place untill the fulnes of the gentiles be brought in vvhich harvest for many ages after vvas not to be reaped yea did not the Apostle hold this forth as a mystery a piece of the Scripture vvhich the auncient Ievvish Church could not vvell comprehend vvhen it vvas pointed at by the Prophets and even at that time vvas not understood vvhich surely could have been no mystery if their conversion had reached no further then the Apostles time and it is known how small a number since of
particular Churches may be in a sad withering condition whilest other parts do flowrish but these promises seem to point at a day which will concern the Saints in all corners of the earth who shall not want their share with the rest of that blessed time it may be also clear some more bright and hot sun-shine of the Gospel is held forth some such remarkable springtide of the Spirit that shall be as discernable as the Churches low ebb sometime was a day of the great power of God his presence very manifest among his people and with the ordinances beyond former times so that Ezek. 48 ver 35. the name of that place shall be called Iehovah Shammah the Lord is there yea that in this day Christs visible Kingdome in a setled Church state shall more eminently flowrish and the flowing in of people and nations with much fervour who shall joyn themselves to the Lord pure ordinances a more universal onenesse amongst the worshippers of God the walk of Christians with a discernable lustre of holines made to commend the Gospel Christs goings full of Majesty and the shout of a King which then shall be heard among his People the noyse of such sad complaints and bitter exercises from the spirit of bondage not so much among the Saints as in former times and though we see no sure ground from the word to expect such a favourable time wherein the Church militant shall not have trouble and persecution from the World yet there seemeth so much clearly imported in some of these great promises as point at a greater calm and more favourable gale of outward prosperity which the Church shall then have yea this in some longer continuance then in former ages a day wherein the haters of the Lord shall even be made to feign subjection with much of the countenance and concurrence of Magistrates and the civil authority in behalfe of the Church yea a time of much holy fear amongst the people of God and of much terrour and aw upon his enemies to which the great works of the Lord in that time shall then effectually contribute and cause them fear the Lord and his goodnesse in the latter dayes IV. We have a prophecy held forth Rev. 16 ver 12. which comparing with Rev. 9 ver 13. seemeth clearly to point at the fall and destruction of the Turkish Empire who have been these many ages so great a scourge to the Christian World for it is manifest that this drying up of the river of Euphrates must relate to that very party which we find in that 9 Chap raised up from about that river where the Turk hath so considerable a part of his dominions it is true the event will more clearly make this known yet these are undenyable 1. That such a party was foretold by John in â—â—at 9 Chap. and a solemn warning given to the Church of so dreadfull a storm the time also there pointed forth when Antichrist should be at a great height yea the portraicture of such an adversary most evidently held forth such as indeed they were found to be a terrible cruell destroying party and therefore are said to have breastplates of fire their number also there held out to be a very great multitude which these huge armyes usually brought by the Turk to the field can witnes 2. The cause why the Lord should raise up so dreadful an enemy and thus let them louse is also expresly declared in that 9 Cha. 20 ver that it was in judgement and for a plague on men for Antichristian idolatry which then had so much overspread the earth and it was no wonder that when so much of the visible Church was turned almost brutish in their Religion and from the pure worship of God was caried after idols of gold and silver the work of mens hands that so brutish and barbarous an adversary should be let out for a scourge I truely think that as Antichrist and the abominations of that party hath been hitherto the lett of successe against the Turk so we are not to expect the prospering of any such design and his fall and ruin until the cause be removed for which the Lord did make use of this dreadful rod. 3. That such a party was raised up according to the prophecy yea at the appointed time thereof is very clear who like a mighty deluge did overflow a great piece of the earth and with strange prodigious successe did overrun much of Asia some parts of Africk and brake in on Europe to give work to these kings and great men and be a scourge to them who had given their power to uphold the throne of the Beast 4. There is also clear ground from the Scripture that the Lord shall as eminently appear in the fall and destruction of this adversary as in the raising of them up and that by their fall he is to make way for the accomplishing of his promise anent the Churches further encrease his perfecting the fulnes of the Gentiles and bringing in his auncient people whereto this prophecy seems to have a particular respect this we are to look after as one of the great works of the Lord that is reserved for the latter dayes which shall no lesse shew forth his power and glory even the drying up of that great Euphrates then in the day that he divided the sea and made Iordan a dry channel for his people to go through we are not to be furder positive anent means and instruments how such a thing shall be brought about it is eneugh what the Lord hath spoken and the word that is gone out of his mouth shall not return in vain V. Now to close this there is yet one great assault which we find the Church shall have before the end and then her warfare will be near finished anent which the Scripture is clear that Sathan for a little must be let louse and that solemn and perfect victory which the Church in the close of time will get over all her adversaries shall be ushered in with a very sharp tryal and once again this ungodly World will shew its rage ralley it s broken scattered forces in a general muster Rev. 20 8. with as much fury as ever and there shall the Lord eminently appear that by one full stroke he may for ever decide that long continued war and feed betwixt the Church and her enemyes a deliverance which as it will be the last so one of the greatest that ever the Church had the Lord thus finishing his work of providence by so stately and magnificent a close and truely after this we know no more of Canonick Scripture to be fulfilled but the comming of the Lord when the poor tost afflicted Church shall enter unto a triumphant estate above all the violence and oppression of men O blessed and long looked for day of Christs return to judgement when the dust of the Saints that for some thousand yeares past have been resting in
and in their greatest strength that by a strong hand he did make room for his truth when both Law and force did withstand the same and put the marks of his wrath on such who would oppose the spreading of his Kingdome that they have been as visible as sometimes their rage and violence against the Church was yea since the Lord begun to lift up a standard for the truth and call forth his People to act hath it not been seen they have losed their ground more by underhand treaties and turning aside to carnall politick shifts then by open force and violence vvhich the French Massacre vvith other sad instances can vvitnes for indeed the Church hath still lost least by greatest opposition 2. Have vve not seen by vvhat dreadful shakings and alterations of the earth this late glorious reformation of the Church from Antichristianisme hath been ushered in vvhich hath been more strange and frequent then in many ages before hath not the Lord caused the Nations shake and the earth to reel like a drunken man to shevv men that though he suffered long in former times of the Worlds ignorance he vvill not so novv bear vvith opposing his truth 3. Have vve not also seen the Lords raising up men fit for action in these last times men of a great heroick spirit vvith some more then ordinary elevation of the same to appear for his intrest such vve may say that many former ages could not instance in vvhich the Lords helping his People to do great things his suiting them vvith enduments for the service and vvork of the time hath been most discernable Was not that excellent man the Admiral of France vvith many others in that place eminently raised up for the necessity of that time and doe we not find these Princes of Orange William and Maurice and Mauritius of Saxony whom the Lord raised against Charles the V. and caused him flee over the Alpes yea what marvellous resolution and courage did attend the actings of the confederates of the Low Countryes in latter times doe we not find Gustavus King of Sweden Bernard Duke of Weymar Lantsgrave of Hesse with many others eminently raised to avenge the Lords quarrel against that bloody house of Austria have we not also seen very great instrumemts raised up in Brittain and Ireland who were followed with wonderful successe to act for the truth against Antichristian Prelacy and truely we must say the withdrawing in such a measure of that spirit of courage and resolution which once was so visibly let forth in the first dawning of the Reformation may sadly point at a great decay of zeal selfe confidence unfaithfulnes as to the improving of opportunities for the Lord was with his People whilest they were with him and did singly follow him in his way but alace with their departing it may be said their strength hath departed from them however the quarrel is clear for an oppressed Peoples acting upon so just so necessary an account as the interest of Religion against the cruelty and violent encroachments of Antichrist wherein as the Lord hath eminently owned his People so I dare not question he will yet appear and silence the adversaryes of this truth by such an argument against vvhich they shall not debate 4. That unusual deludge of blood which for the 100 yeares past hath overflowed much of Europe can be a witnes to this that the Lord hath taken peace from men who vvould not embrace the peace of the Gospel offered in these last times and given his enemyes who had shed the blood of the saints blood to drink in great measure I am sure poor Germany can prove this which for 20 years together was a field of dead men France from the dayes of Henry the II. to the establishment of Henry the IV. hovv long vvas the Low Countryes made a stage of vvarr vvhere many a cruell Spanjard did fall under the svvord of an avenging God besids the late bloody vvarres in Brittain and Ireland and vvhat doth this declare but that Jesus Christ hath taken the fields and it vvil not be novv vvith the Kings of the earth to oppresse his Church and withstand the truth as in former times I shall but adde hovv vvonderfully hath the Lord appeared in delivering his Church at the greatest extremity hath turned his enemyes counsels and designes upon themselves brought about the great vvorks of these last times by meanes so unexpected and improbable that vve may say as to vvhat of his judgement is already execute against Antichrist hath been no lesse marvellous then that Jerichoes vvals should fall at the sound of a trumpet of ram-horn or a cake of barley bread tumbling into the host of Midian should smite and overthrow the same surely when we consider what the Lord hath done and how exactly that doth answer the Scripture we may have much to confirm us anent the further accomplishment of his word and be assured that the term of his long suffering towards Babylon is at an end war is denounced and the execution already begun which must not have a close untill judgement be accomplished into victory IV. Ground which may confirm the faith of the saints and be as a pledge in their hand of the full accomplishing of the Scripture yea that this is near is this that the day is now turned and that prophecyed victory which the Church should have over Antichrist before the end is not only begun but in a great measure advanced This is indeed a great confirmation when we see so marvellous a crisis in the Churches case her recovery from so desperat and hopelesse a disease already begun that it shall be furder perfected we are made to wonder at the greatnes of these things yet promised but why should we not also wonder at that which God hath already done for his Church in our dayes the Scripture doth shew that Antichrists ruin must begin by the word that this stroke shall be gradual and however that great work of God meet with much opposition yet it shall no more go back in the whole and must we not say in all this the word is fulfilled it hath not hitherto failed the Church but the event in every circumstance made to answer to the same Now to clear this we would consider these two First that the Churches victory over Antichrist is this day so farr advanced 2. How the Lords very immediat hand hath been most discernable therein I. The first I need but name whilest it is so manifest what the Lord hath wrought for his Church for we have seen Kingdomes and Nations subject themselves to the truth the kingdome of Antichrist grow dark with the breaking up of the light and many of his followers made to gnash their teeth being scorched with the heat and power of the gospel in how great a measure is that interest now shaken if we consider what the Lord hath wrough what a great reformation hath been in Brittain
Catholick league vvhich did quickly follovv upon the back thereof a very strong and formidable combination to root out the Protestant interest 8. The taking away of Edward the sixth of England establishing of a cruel persecutor Queen Mary did indeed look like a stroke that should root out the Church in that part and destroy that famous plantation of the Gospel in its tender grouth 9. I must adde that vvhich vvas as sore an assault to the Church as any so grievous a difference vvhich vvith the first breaking up of the vvork of Reformation did begin betvvixt Luther and Zvvinglius about Christs presence in the Sacrament yea came to such an height and vvith so great heat and animosity vvas follovved as in appearance vvould have vvholly frustrat the vvork they vvere about THIRD Witnes to this truth is that wonderful patience and resolution of the Saints yea with much chearfulnes in their greatest sufferings which in these late times did appear Wherein the World must confesse that same immediat support from Heaven yea the Lords owning his People in a very extraordinary way was no lesse manifest then in these primitive sufferings of the Church from heathens Sure no by past times even in these bloody dayes of Nero Domitian c. can shew more horrid more strange engines of torment and cruelty then what in these last ages the Church did endure from the Popish party whose savage and barbarous usage of the poor flock of Christ where ever they had accesse may witnes a cruelty more then humane and as to the number are they not almost without reckoning who in France Germany Brittain and the Low Countries beside other parts were slain within this 150. Yeares for the word of God and the testimony of his truth Now as this is most manifest it is also known what a divine and an invincible spirit vvith an astonishing courage and resolution did appear in the carriage of the People of God under this sore persecution hovv they triumphed over their oppressours and did chearfully meet death in its most terrible shape a thing vvhich the Schooles of Socrates and Plato vvith all their rules could never reach yea should be reckoned amongst the miracles of these later dayes anent vvhich vve vvould consider these things 1. That something more then nature a spirit and resolution above the ordinary rate of men yea something much above themselves their natural temper and disposition did in their most extream sufferings oft appear and this without the least shadow of affectation and deceit I am sure the World in these last ages yea the conscience of their persecutors and of the greatest Atheists must witnes this 2. That many of the most soft tender disposition many women whose complexion would declare more weaknes yet in this late Antichristian persecution did en dure greatest torments and by suffering triumphed over the fury and rage of their adversaryes whereof we have many instances in record 3. The World hath been also a witnes how serious and deliberat the Saints were in this that they made suffering their choise which they could easily have shunned at the rate of yeelding something in the truth but ere they would doe this or give the adversary such a bribe they choised to embrace death and goe to a stake for Christ even when they wanted not most perswading offers to turn them aside for instance I would here mention that excellent man in Queen Maryes time Julius Palmer who not only had life but preferment offered if he would recant to which his answer was that he had quit his living in two places for Christ and now was ready to yeeld his life also on that accompt likewise one William Hunter whom Bishop Bonar did urge with many offers to recant told him it must be Scripture arguments and not perfwasions of that kinde for he reckoned all earthly things but drosse and dung in respect of Christ and at the stake when a pardon by the Sheriffe was offered upon such an accompt did peremptorly reject the same Antonius Riceto a Venetian when condemned for the truth had a large offer to have his patrimony restored which was much morgadged with debt and made free beside his life if he would but a little yeeld and likevvise had his son vveeping on him for that cause gave this ansvver he vvas resolved to lose both Children and estate for Christ I shall adde vvhat vve have related of one Hervvin vvho suffered in the lovv countryes to vvhom the Magistrates made great intreaties vvith large promises to recant which he vvholly slighted many more instances of this kinde here might be set dovvn 4. It is knowen that such who were of great repute in the World and had a large share of outward things to tempt them did in these last times most chearfully part with the same and choise rather suffering for the truth we may instance these 2. great witnesses Iohn Frederick of Saxony and the Lantsgrave of Hesse who under that long imprisonment by Charles the 5. bare out many sharp assaults both by threatnings and offers without yeelding in the least to the prejudice of the truth yea on this accompt did the Duke of Sanony forgoe with his estate and dignity Annas Du Burg counsellour of the Parliament at Paris of great parts and repute who before Henry the II. had an excellent speech in Parliament for the Protestant party for which by him being imprisoned did forgoe all his honours and interests in the World which otherwayes he might have brooked and embraced death for Christ The Prince of Condee at the massacre of Paris when the King expresly shewed him he should within 3 dayes dye if he did not renounce his Religion told him his estate and life were in his hand but ere he renounced the truth he would quite both Charles de Zeroton a Moravian Barron of great interest and authority in that countrey in the late Bohemian persecution did quite all his estate and possessions for the Gospel not withstanding of many large offers and perswasions we find also in England the Dutches of Suffolk a lady who lived in the fulnes of the World and pleasures thereof yet in Queen Maries time did quite both estate and countrey for the truth and on that accompt did choise a very hard lot in other parts 5. Is it not also known how these who had been ready to faint and be overcharged with discouragement yet at death in the extremity of their suffering did shew a marvellous resolution and chearfulnes a thing which no Atheist can possibly answer and sheweth Gods very immediat support Mr Glover how sore was he cast down and could feel no joy or comfort after much wrestling but no sooner did come in sight of the stake but his soul was filled with the joy of the Lord and with his strength which forced him to clap his hands and cry forth to a friend who knew his former damp and discouragement Oh Ausline he is
that large measure of the Spirit and outletting thereof which did convincingly follow the Gospel and ministry of the word in these last times a truth which we must say hath been manifest and by many solemn proofes thereof demonstrat no lesse then in the first planting of the christian Church It is undenyable how great a witnes to the truth the Spirit down-powring thereof is for this is Gods own seal which is not put to a lye or falsehood thus he beares witnes to his work in the hearts of his people and by this also the Lord doth seal and attest the doctrine of the Church and commission of his servants who publisheth the same yea at some special seasons when the truth hath least countenance or encouragement from without times of contradiction when men will not receive its testimony and a great speate of opposition is to the Gospel then hath this in a more full and large measure been discernable thus did the Lord eminently own and confirm the Christian Religion in the dayes of the Apostles and for some following ages by so great a downpowring of the Spirit such visible and extraordinary effects thereof as did then astonish the World and force men to confesse something above nature that this was surely the great work and power of God and have we not also cause to say that thus the Lord hath born a very solemn testimony to his truth the work of reformation and doctrine of the reformed Churches in these late times anent which I dare appeal by standers yea the adversaryes to their conscience if without shutting their eyes they could shift the conviction of a convincing appearance of God in the power and efficacy of the Spirit even in a more then ordinary way accompanying the word and ordinances a power which carried kingdomes and cityes before it yea in a very short time over the belly of greatest violence and opposition to clear this a little I shall point at some few remarkable evidences which might stare the grossest of men in the face and in some measure convince them of this truth 1. It is evident that marvellous conquest which the Gospel had in Germany by the ministry of Luther Melanchton Bucer Martyr Musculus and a few others of these excellent instruments whom the Lord then sent forth O was not this a day of the Spirit and powring forth thereof in a large measure a day of the gospels triumph not by might or by power yet such as before it the World could not stand cityes and countryes might then be said to be born at once the arme of the Lord revealed with the same that men were either scorched or truely warmed and gained thereby Did not that marvellous power and efficacy of the spirit also attend the ministry of Zuinglius and Oecolampadius in Zurick and Basile when so through a reformation followed to the throwing down of Images abolishing of the Masse by publick authority notwitstanding of its long continuance and this in a short time the spirit and power of God did very eminently appear also in these famons plantations of the Gospel by the Ministry of Calvine Farel and Vires in Geneva Lausanna and other adjacent Provinces It is written in the life of Vires that at Lyons which was a great populous city he preached in an open place where divers thousands were converted to the truth yea some who came by with no purpose to hear only out of curiosity stepped in were so wrought on and overcome with the power of the word as for that time made them neglect their other businesse 2. That great successe which did attend the ministry of Mr Wishart in Scotland can also witnes this truth whence so marvellous a change did quickly follow in these places where he preached through Angus Lothian and the western parts yea how much the spirits of the people were then raised and affected with the word but this being a thing so known from the historyes of that time I only name 3. Besides these which are more known and upon publick record I must here instance a very solemn and extraordinary outletting of the spirit which about the year 1625. and thereafter was in the West of Scotland whilest the persecution of the Church there was not from the prelatick party this by the prophane rabble of that time was called the Stewarton Sicknes for in that parish first but after through much of that countrey particularly at Irwine under the ministry of famous Mr Dickson it was most remarkable where it can be said which divers Ministers and Christians yet alive can witnes that for considerable time few Sabbaths did passe without some evidently converted and some convincing proofes of the power of God accompanying his word yea that many were so choaked and taken by the heart that through terrour the spirit in such a measure convincing them of sin in hearing of the word they have been made to fall over and thus carried out of the Church who after proved most solid and lively Christians and as it was knowen some 〈◊〉 the most grosse who used to mock at religion being engadged upon the same that went abroad of such things â—o go to some of these parts where the Gospel was then most lively have been effectually reached before their return with a visible change following the same and truely this great spring tide which I may so call of the Gospel was not of a short time but for some yeares continuancâ— yea thus like a spreading moor burn the power of Godlines did advance from one place to another which put a marvellous lustre on these parts of the countrey the savour whereof brought many from other parts of the land to see the truth of the same 4. I must also mention that solemn Communion at the Kirk of the Shots 20 June 1630. at which time there was so convincing an appearance of God and downpowring of the Spirit even in an extraordinary way that did follow the ordinances especially that sermon on the Munday 21 June with a strange unusual motion on the hearers who in a great multitude were there conveened of divers ranks that it was known which I can speak on sure ground near 500 had at that time a discernable change wrought on them of whom most proved lively Christians afterward it was the sowing of a seed through Clidesdeal so as many of most eminent Christians in that countrey could date either their conversion or some remarkable confirmation in their case from that day and truely this was the more remarkable that one after much reluctance by a special and unexpected providence was called to preach that sermon on the Munday which then was not usually practised and that â—ight before by most of the Christians there was spent in prayer so that the Mundays work as a convincing return of prayer might be discerned 5. I shall heâ—â—â—lso instance that solemn and great work of God which was in the Church of Ireland some
other sinful man to be carried through creditably but as sure as ever he spake to me in his word his spirit witnessed to my heart saying fear not he had accepted my suffering and the outgate should not be matter of prayer but of praise he said also thy word was found and I did eat it and it was to me the joy and rejoycing of my heart and a little before his death after some fainting he sayeth now I feell I beleeve I enjoy I rejoyce and turning to Mr Blair then present he said I feed on Manna I have Angels food my eyes shall see my Redeemer I know that he shall stand at the latter day on the earth and I shall be caught up in the clouds to meet him in the air and afterwards hath these words I sleep in Christ and when I awake I shall be satisfyed with his likenes O for armes to embrace him and to one speaking anent his painfulnes in the ministry he cryeth out Iâ—disclaim all the port I would be in at is redemption and forgivenes if sins through his blood And thus full of the spirit yea as it were overcome with sensible enjoyment he breaths out his soul His last words being Glory Glory dwelleth in Emâ—â—nuels land SIXTH Witnes is that convincing appearance of an extraordinary and Apostolick spirit on some of these instruments whom the Lord raised up in these last times and these great enduements wherewith they were sent for the fervice of the Church and overthrow of the Kingdome of Antichrist a truth which we must say if not in such a measure yet hath been no lesse evident then in these primitive times when the Christian Church was planted It is clear that extraordinary gifts and enduements have been let forrh to the Church under the New Testament for with the first dawning of the Gospel there was both Apostles and Prophets raised up it cannot be also denyed that since the Cannon of the Scripture was closed yea in these late ages there hath been very extraordinary men given to the Church who had special revelations from the Lord of his minde anent things to come which though we should not now look after yet herein did the Lord remarkably condescend when some great piece of service and necessity of the Church did more call for it and truely these were led in no other path then that of the word though they had a more special discovery and immediat inbreathing of Gods minde as to the application thereof in particular cases neither did they presse upon mens conscience to credit the same but were most cautious witnessing much humble sobriety on that account It is knowen what extraordinary instruments how wonderfully called and qualified Luther Zuingliuâ— Calvine Mr Wishart and Mr Knox were whom God sent in these latter dayes to grapple with Antichrist and sound a retreat to his Church from Babylon likewise 〈◊〉 Beza Bacere and Martyr with divers in England such as Latimer Ridley Bradfoord c. Who indeed were burning and shining lights in their time mighty in the Scripture fervent in spirit were cloathed with the power and authority of God before which the World could not stand But besides these famous witnesses of whose life vve have something this day on publick record I must here craveliberty to set dovvn a fevv moe more late instances of our ovvn Church in Scotland to confirm this truth such as are but little knovvn to the World nor any thing of their lives published vvhich I think a great losse to after generations vvhom vve may say and this vvith a vvarrant and in sobriety were men truely extraordinary eminently serviceable in the work of the Lord yea of a Prophetick and Apostolick Spirit and such vvho through grace did not even come short of the first three I mean not only these before mentioned but also some of these great lights vvho vvere in the first age of the Church after the ascension of Christ 1. I shall instance Mr Iohn Welsh whom the Lord called forth to the ministry at Kirck cubright in Galloway and afterwards was transported to the Church of An whom Mr Rutherfoord in one of his bookes calleth that heavenly Prophetical and Apostolick Man of God and sheweth that from the witnesses of his life he had this accompt that of every 24 houres he gave usually eight to prayer if other necessary and urgent dueties did not hinder yea spent many dayes and nights which he set apart in fasting and prayer for the condition of the Church and the sufferings of the reformed Churches abroad I can also adde this from very sure information and truely anent any of those particulars I seriously studie to have satisfying grounds anent the certainty thereof that it was his use even in the coldest winter nights to rise for prayer and oft times his wife who was an excellent woman hath risen to seek after him where he hath been found lying on the ground weeping and wrestling with the Lord yea sometimes would have been much of the night alone in the Church of Aire on that accompt One time especially his wife finding him overcharged with grief he told her he had that to presse him which she had not the soules of 3000 to answer for whilest he knew not how it was with many of them And an other time whilest she found him alone his spirit almost overcharged with anguish and grier upon her serious enquiry said that the times which were to come on Scotland were heavy and sad though she should not see them and this for the contempt of the Gospel Whilest he was prisoner in the Blacknesse in a letter to a Christian lady he giveth this accompt what large joy he had to suffer for such a truth that Iesus Christ was a King and had a visible Kingdome in the World even his Church which was as free to keep its Courts and exerce discipline by vertue of an intrinsick power from Christ as any Kingdome on the earth for which he was ready to lay down his life yea would rejoyce to be offered up a sacrifice on so glorious a truth in the close of that letter he doth also forewarn that judgement was coming to Scotland which should be blood first by an intestine sword and then by the sword of a stranger and that a great sacrifice should be there both of great men and mean the fulfilling whereof hath since been very sensible and is known by many alive who had that letter long before the late troubles begun whilest he was thus prisoner two of â—â—mankable passages I have had confirmed by divers worthy of credit some of whom shewed me they had them from these who were most familiar with the persones themselves they are indeed strange but we must also consider he was an extraordinary man The first was this that one night whilest he did expound the Scripture after his supper in the prison at his custome was whilest he with much power and authority was pressing
Prelacy was further established was by him penned and out of his own hand given to the Earle of Dumbar subscribed by many Ministers of the Church who were then there on that account His life was most examplary for piety and faithfulnes in serving his Master which did preach no lesse to that part of the countrey wherein he lived then his doctrine one very remarkable passage of his life I do here adventure to set down having very satisfying grounds as to the certainty of it from these who knew the same and had a particular relation of all its circumstances from a grave Christian who had it out of his own mouth and likewise hath it written under old Mr Row of Carâ—ocks hand who was his familiar intimat friend it is this His Wife Martha Barron a gracious woman the wife of his youth with whom he had lived in great love fell sick which proved her last sicknes where she was first sore assaulted by the Devil who pressed in upon her that she should be given over to his hand and after it did resolve in a visible distraction which for a time grew upon her so that most unlike to her former way she would have broke forth with dreadfull and horrid expressions it did most appear on a Sabbath morning whilest Mr Simpsâ—n was going to preach and whâ—â—gst for a time he was forced with a heavy countenance to stand silent he at last kneeled down and prayed which she did no wayes regard but a little after he turning to the company that were present told them he was sure that these who now were witnesses of that sad houre should yet see a gracious work of God on this his Servant and that the Devils malice against that poor woman should have a shameful â—oil her distraction did still continue until the Tuesday which was the 9 of August which morning at the very dawning of it he gooth to his garden and shut the doore behinde him where for many houres he was alone but a godly woman who that night was with his wise Helâ—â— Garner wiâ—e to one of the Bailyes of Stirling being apprehensive of his hazard through his grief and fasting could have no rest till she knew his cafe and by some help climbed up and wan in to the garden but on a near approach to that place where Mr Sâ—mpsâ—â— then was she was terrified with an extraordinary noise which through fear made her fall to the ground it seemed as she related after to others it was like the noise of a great rushing of multitudes together and therewith such a melodious sound as did make her know it was something more then humane and turned to player entreating the Lord would pardon her rashnes which affection to his Servant who had been the instrument of her good had carried her to and after going forward finds him lying upon the ground it was with much entreaty that he did then reveal himselfe in that particular until she promised clossenes not to speak it to others so long as he lived but had his allowance if she should â—urvive him which promise she keept but after his death did relate it to these from whom I have had this he said O what am I being dust and ashes that the holy Ministring spirits should be sent by the Lord to deliver a message to me and shewed he had a vilion of Angels who did with an audible voice give him an answer from the Lord of his wifes condition and coming over to his house he said to all who were present be of good comfort for ere 10 houres of this day I am sure that brand shall be plucked out of the fire after which he went to prayer at his wifes bedside where for a time she laâ— quiet but whilest he mentioned Iacobs wrestling in prayer she â—its straight up in the bed casting aside the courtain and sayeth Thou art this day Iacob who hast wrestled and also prevailed and nou God hath made good his words which he spake this morning to you for I am plucked out of the hands of Satan and he shall have no power over me Which interruption made him for a space silent but after with great melting of heart proceeded in prayer and magnified the riches of Gods love towards him and after prayer there was sweet and Christian embracements betwixt them yea from that houre she did speak most Christianly and comfortably even to her death which was on the Friday following August 13. 1601 whose last words in the moment of her departure was with a loud voice Come Lord in thy hands I commend my spirit After this Mr Sâ—mpson lived several yeares fervent and faithful in the work of the Lord and one who in privat walk witnessed such mortification that all who knew him might clearly see his converse was little in the World in March 1618. he sayd now shall this moneth put an end to all these things and accordingly towards the close of it was removed by death at which time he expressed much joy blessing the Lord for his kindnes that he had not been perverted by the sinful courses of these times and might say as the Lord fed Elijah in the wildernes so in some respect he had dealt with him all his life time and having these words upon some of his bookes written Rememmember O my soul and never forget the 9 of August what consolation the Lord gave thee and how he performed â—hat â—â— spoke according to Zaâ—h 3 ver 2. it not thâ—â— a brand pluâ—kâ—â— out of the fire upon which some of his friends speaking â—â— him anent the same his answer was Absit miht 〈◊〉 â—â— aliquo nisi in Domino Deo meo Now besides these great men many others who at that time did shine as lights in the Church may be here also mentioned who were indeed stars of the first magnitude eminently zealous and faithful and their Ministry followed with much of the power and authority of God such as Mr Andrew Melâ—â—ne of whom it might be said he had the face of a lyon in his masters cause and feared not to speak before Princes and great men when the truth called for it likewise his nevoy Mr Iames Melvine that holy grave and prudent Servant of Christ Mr. Andrew Dunkan Mr Iohn Scringer Mr Chartes Fereâ—â—â— Mr. Iames Balfure c. One passage I shall here â—et down worthy of a remark of Mr Andrew Melvine who being prisoner in the Tower a Gentleman of his acquaintance got accesse to visit him but found him in a sad and deep muse anent the defection of many Ministers in Scotland and did deplore the state of the Church there having lately got an account of their way at that assembly at Glasgow 1610. where the Earle of Dumbar had been active to corrupt divers with money this Gentleman desiring to know what word he had for his own countrey got no answer but upon a second enquiry he said I have no word to send
but am heavily grieved that the glorious governement of the Church of Scotland should be so defaced and a Popish tyrannical government set up and thou Manderston for out of that house Dumbar was come and he thus stiled him Hast thou no other thing to do but carry down to Scotland such commissions whereby the poore Church there is wracked the Lord shall be avenged upon thee and thou shalt never again go down for all thy grandour which words took such impression on that Gentleman that when he went forth he desired some friends who then waited to get a bussinesse at court â—â—ped by Dumbars moyen that they would in time â—â—â— their affaires to a close for he was perswaded the words of that servant of Christ should nor fall to the ground and truely this did very quickly take place that Earle being suddenly struck by death within a few moneths after and thus thrown down from the top of his grandour whilest he was bussie perfecting that great house of his at Berwick and had appointed a sumptuous feast for his daughters marriage even then did his thoughts perish I shall here but adde one instance more of one whom we before named though not a Minister yet a great instrument for promoting the work of the Gospel in the place he lived and one we may say of an extraordinary spirit Hew Kennedy provest of Aire of vvhom I would mention these two passages from sure knowledge One was whilest the Merchant Ships of that town were at â—eâ— amongst whom his son Iohn who was also a choise Christian was at that time he did one night rise before the breaking of day and came to the house of his familiar friend Iohn Steward desiring he would rise go along with him to some room whereat the said Iohn being exceedingly astonished he sayeth to him it is no time to linger let us go pray for my son with the rest of our friends now at sea are at this houre on the very nick of perishing and after they had spent some time in prayer he arose chearfully and said now they are safe Within a little after Iohn Steward who had writ this down with the day and houre at the return of the Ships did most particularly enquire and found hovv it did answer in all the circumstances and in that very houre of that night they were to appearance past hope of safety upon a very dangerous place and by an extraordinary unexpected providence then delivered The other is this one day being for many houres alone in prayer whilest some of his Christian friends did wait long for him at last with an unusual chearfulnes he came forth and upon their enquiry anent his stay he told them it was no wonder for he had that day got mercy to him and all his and truely it was very evident that not one of his Children but there was large ground of charity that they were truely godly Whilest he was dying Mr Ferguson a godly Minister sayeth to him yow have cause Sir to be assured that the Angels of God are novv vvaiting at the stoups of this bed to convoy your soul into Abrahams bosome to vvhom his ansvver vvas I am sure thereof and if the wals of this house could speak they could tell hâ—â— many sweet dayes I have had in secret fellowship with God and how familiar he hath been with my soul I shall only adde Mr. Welshes testimony in a letter from France to this great man his words were these Happy is that city yea happy is that Nation that hath a Hew Kenneay in it I have my selfe certainly found the answers of his prayers from the Lord in my behalfe SEVENTH Witnes to this truth that the Lord hath in so solemn and extraordinary a way appeared for his Church in these last times is this these great and marvellous providences which we may call magnalia Der by which he hath witnessed his truth and confirmed the same since the breaking up of the Gospel in this late raising of the Church from Antichrist For we may truely say there hath not wanted a visible attestation from Heaven and a convincing testimony by some great workes of the Lord to his truth as well as in the primitive times of the Church We do here understand by such providences these wherein man cannot but see something above nature and naturall causes yea above the ordinary way of the Lords working which doth evidently witnes his great and immediat hand some whereof have been so wonderful which can be instanced in these late times as might truely be called miracles it is true this is not the Lords usuall way neither maketh he use of such a solemn testimony but on special and weighty grounds vvhen the necessity of the Church called for it vvhilest he is about some extraordinary piece of vvork or vvhen the Gospel cometh first to a land that hath been long overspread vvith darknes vvhen ordinary meanes of conviction are vvanting or in times of great opposition vvhen the commission of his servants needeth some extraordinary seal in such a time as that of Achabs vvhen the People are made to halt betvvixt truth and a false vvay and thus vve find the Lord did confirm the first breaking up of the Gospel and make use of such a mean to spread the Christian Church through the World and should this seem strange that in so great a change of the Churches case novv in these latter dayes vvhen he vvas to raise her up after so long a ruin and desolation vvhilest Antichristianisme so many ages had overspread the face of the World that he should thus appear and give some signal demonstration of his povver in behalfe of his People such as vve have seen vvith our eyes and our fathers did tell us It is not miracles or any extraordinary providence on vvhich men should resolve their faith nor do vve here mention these for laying stresse thereon in believing the truth no the Protestant doctrine and cause doth lean on a stronger gtound it can vvith confidence appeal the adversary to the Scripture these divine records vvhich they do not pretend to deny this even this is the reason of our hope vvhich vve offer to all that ask for the same and there let the God of truth vvho hath revealed his vvill and answers men by the written word be judge aâ—d we shall demand no greater advantage nor justice at the hand of our enemyes we know miracles cannot authorize a lye or be a seal to any thing repugnant to the Scripture and truely these lying wonders which have been so frequent in the World which the Apostle doth foretel that such an engine the Devil wil make use of to turn men aside from the truth besids other marks of their falsehood they have this one most discernable that they are the support and warrant of that which cannot stand alone by the Word and thence are the popish miracles made use of to confirm such tenets
which of all their doctrine do most directly contradict the Scripture as the merit of works purgatory praying for the dead c. Bus as we will not boast of such as the authority or proof of our doctrine so we judge it a grave and a concerning duety to observe the wondrous work of the Lord in our times yea to make a diligent search thereanent that we may tell posterity some of these great acts of our God for his Church in bringing her again from Babell I would desire to be very tender and cautious upon such a subject for I judge it horrid divinity to make a lye for God it is not the truth but a false way which requireth such a help and truely anent these following instances which are but a few of many that might be brought if there were more serious enquiry I dare attest the Lord the great witnes that I have not knowingly set down here any thing false yea not without some diligent search and satisfying grounds anent the certainty thereof I judge it not necessary to repeat these which are so known already to the World from publick records and therefore shall but briefly point at some of these and adde a few moe particular instances of this kinde which I may with some confidence bring to the light from clear evidences of the truth thereof I shall first mention that solemn testimony of Mr Baynam in Queen Maryes time who in the midst of the fire whilest his body was all in a flame his armes and legs halfe burnt cryed out to bystanders O Papists ye look after miracles lo here is one I am now burning in this fire but feels no more pain then if I were in a bed of roses O must not this be called a miracle and an extraordinary seal from the Lord to his ttuth wherein the World would consider this was the testimony of one who was upon the borders of eternity which he did declare before a great multitude attested by Mr Fox that holy servant of Christ who in things of that kinde so extraordinary was most cautious and did much search out the truth and certainty of what he sets down and by him was published whilest many of that time who might have been present were alive yea it is the more remarkable the sharp combat that this Martyr had through the terrour of the fire a little before his death fearing he should never be able to endure the same What a remarkable providence was that at a town in the Low Countryes whilest some of the Saints were put to death by the Popish party and among these one Michael Bomboutius a Deacon of the reformed Church whilest they were going to suffer about midday the Heavens being most clear there came suddenly so great a darknes and so horrible and unusual a tempest which was onely in that place and above that city discerned that men were generally shaken with fear thinking there should be a present dissolution of the World this famous Voetius in that piece de signis doth witnes that from divers there present even some of them popish he had this related to himselfe and as he sayeth suchâ—â— thing Papists would have with greatest observation published as the very finger of God if they had the same occasion At a town Alsa in Westslanders whilest a godly man whom the Inquisition there had pursued was leading to the stake and was by the way singing Psalmes thâ— Captain of these who guarded him was so enraged that he caused presently his tongue be plucked out by the rootes but loâ— a few moneths after this wretched man hath a Childe born with his tongue hanging out a great way which by no meanes could be keepâ— within his mouth this Doctor Hall being himselâ—â— afterwards in that town had shewed him from some who were most considerable there as he sets down in his Epistles Charles the IX of France vvho was author of that horrid Massacre where the blood of many thousand Protestants at Paris and other parts was shed did a very little after dye in the strength of his years by an extraordinary effusion of blood from all passages of his body that as Du Serres and other french vvriters of that time do shew he was made to vvallow in his own blood before his death O vvas not this the very finger of God a most convincing stupendious piece of his judgement What an extraordinary providence vvas that vvhich is attested by divers vvitnesses thereto in the late bloody Massacre of Ireland a young vvoman vvho by the Irishes vvas stript almost naked and after by one of them threatned that except she vvould give him her money he vvould forthvvith run her through to vvhich she gravely ansvvered I knovv you cannot kill me except God give you leave whereupon he did three 〈◊〉 with his sword run at her naked body but could not once pierce her skin which did so confound this wretched man that with a kinde of horrour he went away and ceased to trouble her further Did not God wonderfully appear in the raising of the late King of Sweden with that astonishing successe which did attend him in breaking the power of the house of Austria whilest they were at so great an height and had their hands hot reeking in the blood of the Protestants through Bohemia and other places of Germany O but the Lords hand might be clearly seen in acting forth and fitting that party of the Swedes for such a piece of his service even in a more then ordinary vvay vvho like that he goat mentioned in Damel did come so swiftly that they touched not the ground as it were but like a mighty speate bare down all before them The breaking of that great Spanish Armado in the Year 88. which had been 3 Yeares in contriving did convincingly witnes a divine hand opposing the same and how remarkable was that issue of all the Counsels expence and cruelty which Philip the second had made use of to bear down the rising of the Gospel in the Netherlands for it is notour that after many essayes the losse of an 100 Millions of gold with near 400000 Lives the reckoning of all his gain and purchase was only the losse of considerable part of these countryes and helping fordward the establishment of the united Provinces and truely we must say the Lord did by his great and outstretched hand wonderfully appear in raising that Common wealth so that they may date their flowrishing in outward interests from their owning of the interests of God Religion did raise them and no People this day hath more cause and are under greater engadgements to be zealous for the truth and defence of the Protestant Cause The breaking of that formidable league of the Catholicks in France for rooting out the Protestant Religion there was very wonderful how all their Counsels and designes should resolve in their own ruin so that the most ordinary onlookers could not but see a divine hand
counteracting the same Davila though an adversary in setting down that history giveth a large account of this What a great appearance of the Lords hand yea of an extraordinary providence vvas there in the throvving dovvn of the Popish images and altarâ— almost in one night throvv much of the Netherlands vvhich for so many 100 Yeares had been made use of for idolatry O did not Sathan thus fall as lightning from Heaven it being very evident hovv strange an impulse did carry out the People in this over all difficulties or fear of hazard vvhat a vvonderful consent and agreement amongst places so remote about one thing and almost at one time hovv quickly also vvas it executed through these Provinces almost in an instant the authors did never appear nor any noise of their boasting thereanent and vvhich vvas strange the Magistrates of the cityes having both povver and vvill to hinder yet vvere so over ruled and struck vvith astonishment that they could not resist and as Famianus Strada a great enemy to the truth doth shevv vvhat fell out in Antvverp and other places considering the greatnes of the vvork the multitude and height of these idolatrous monuments it might have been eneugh for many dayes vvhat vvas done in one night and yet not any in the least prejudged or hurt thereby vvhich made him cry â—ut that sure this vvas the vvork of the Devil and his help eminently therein but I doe not vvonder to hear these in such a manner blaspheme vvhilest they are tormented vvith so clear a discovery of Gods hand against them Must vve not here mention that great deliverance of the town of Leyden from the Spanjard vvith a speciall remark vvhilest it vvas then manifest if the enemy had made use of Cannon in battering the vvals they could not have come short of their designe in what an extraordinary vvay also vvere the vvinds trysted to raise the vvaters in order to the touns relief vvhen they vvere at the utmost extremity yea for driving the vvaters back again vvhen the toun vvas once delivered and which was very marvellous that the same night wherein the Spanjards were forced to retire a part of the wals fell down which if it had fallen out a little before that city had been utterly lost O vvas not this a divine hand vvhich even the greatest Atheists and such vvho judge things to fall out by chance must confesse What vvonderful providences did attend the actings of that poor handful of protestants in the Valleyes of Piemont for their necessary selfe-defence Fox vvith other vvriters give a clear account in setting dovvn that horrid persecution vvhich they endured in the Year 1555. I shall here onely touch some passages mentioned by Mr Morland in his History who upon the account of that bloody Massacte vvhich vvas there vvithin these fevv Years vvas then near that place and from sure knovvledge and information doth very gravely hold forth the same and truely they are providences so marvellous and astonishing that men cannot but see the Lord in an extraordinary vvay helping that poore People his acting forth a fevv to do such exploits beyond any thing that can be mentioned of these great Heroes whom the World in former Yeares did admire so that we must say as this was a convincing proof of the great power of God put forth for his People when help in an ordinary way failed it was also a solemn testimony to their cause and of the Lords approbation of his Peoples standing for their own defence against the cruelty and violence of a persecuting Magistrat We have there held forth how after that bloody persecution by an order from the Duke of Savoy a small number was in a remarkable way raised up and upon their first essay 7 or 8 under the conduct of that worthy Gentleman Iosua Gianavell whom God made use of as a choise instrument to help that poor scattered remnant was made to fight 300 souldiers who were sent to excerce further cruelty in that place killing many of them and pursueing the rest for a considerable time After a party of 500 being sent by the Marquesse of Fianem who then commanded the Duke of Savoyes forces were opposed by 11 of the Protestants and other 6 with slings and after a short conflict were forced to flee with considerable slaughter the terrour of the Lord upon the one and a Spirit of courage and resolution in the other being very manifest After these there was another party sent forth of 700 souldiers to sease on all the passages upon which about 17 Masters of familyes whose hearts God had in signal manner strengthned to the battel for their poor brethrens preservation resolved to cast themselves upon the Lord for the successe of their undertakings and with such marvellous boldnes faced their adversaries as put them in amazement and made them draw off resolving to take another way but vvere still pursued by this little handful vvho killed many vvithout the losse of one man At an other time the Protestants there joyning in a greater number being 300 under the conduct of the forementioned Captain Gianavel vvere assaulted by 2500 of the adversaries but the Lord so ordered that this little party getting the advantage of the place after some conflict did force them to retire pursueing them into the vvoods and steep rocks vvith great slaughter and thus vvith a marvellous courage in a continued fight for 8 houres together did drive the enemy before them Divers other remarkable passages of this kinde are at more length mentioned in that History vvhich the Author after most exact search and enquiry thereanent doth solemnly attest and truely it might be much cause for vvonder as it is there observed that through the Lords ominent appearance and his blessing on his poor Peoples endeavours for the interest of Religion and their own preservation they did in a short time dispute the matter vvith such a prosperous successe against all the forces vvhich the Duke of Savoy sent that their enemyes at last began to fear vvhat effect it might produce and therefore having no better game to play were glad by a treaty of peace to get the sword out of their â—â—nds how ever they pretended it as a complement put on neighbouring Princes who did interceed for the same Have we not also to reckon among the great workes of the Lord in these last times Henry the VIII of England most violent in opposition to the truth who by the Pope was stiled Defender of the faith upon that account and for his writing against Luther and yet the same man shal be the instrument made use of by the Lord to throw down the Pope his power in his Dominions and give some beginning to a great reformation of the Church there Vergerius the popes Nuncio for many years in Germany whilest he is writing against the truth is even then converted and forced to yeeld to the power of the same turne Protestant and a zealous
time for it is knovvn vvith vvhat marvellous resolution and chearfulnes these have been carried through who were called forth to resist unto the blood in their adherence to the truth witnessing to the conviction of onlookers even their greatest enemyes something above Roman Gallantry yea something above nature in that stayednes and elevation of their Spirits and as some of all rancks in the land the Lord would have brought forth to seal and witnes his truth and the work of Reformation so it hath been also clear that none wanted a large measure of support and strength for the tryall their suffering still giving a further dash to their adversaries 3. It is also manifest and may be truly matter of wonder by what a marvellous providence so many suffering and desolat familyes have been carried through without any obvious noise of their straites now for these divers yeares with such convincing chearfulnes yea the experience of many made to witnes that they never lesse knew a strait then since they were put from the ordinary meanes of their support and others who have been more sharply tryed could not reckon any such plunging strait and difficulty but have also found outgate by some remarkable providence trysted I am very sure amongst other advantages yet of these times this shall be one a large Register of Experience and remarkable confirmations of the truth of the word and promise which the godly have had under this sharp tryal that will be sweet matter for an after reckoning and a greater gain then any losse their former sufferance did occasion Yea have not seen what in an ordinary way looked as irrecoverable a stroke which a generation could not have made up hath been a mean the Lord hath choised to promote his glory and thereby declare himselfe to be God hath he not made us see how easy it is for him to turn the sharpest storm to the great advantage of his Church that he can act in desperate cases above the skill both of Angels and men and truely though we should be brought yet more low even to the place of Dragons this may uphold the shaking hearts of his People and be solid ground of confidence that Christs power and faithfulnes is this day engadged for his Church and truth he must encrease his Kingdome is upon the rising hand and shall yet have a more glorious appearance in the World what ever become of instruments the reviving of his work is not in the reverence of men and since we know the Lord hath solemnly declared war against Antichrist and all who will oppose the spreading of the Gospel in these last times yea hath past his word to the Church for the fall and ruin of that adversary fall he must though the dust of the earth should arise for that end and it is sure Prelacy must also wither that hath its life and sap from that accursed root they have this day a desperat cause in hand who do engadge their power to support the throne of the Beast for they run in the way of the wrath and vengeance of the Lord and shall surely involve themselves in that ruin though they were the greatest Princes of the earth I shall onely adde we have much ground in these times to believe that the Lord shall yet appear and make himself known in the earth by as great and convincing providences both of judgement and mercy as in any former ages and thus vindicat his glory and refute the Atheisme of this generation by such an argument as shall force iniquity to stop its mouth Now since this is sure which none can get denyed if they will but allow some serious thoughts thereanent that the Scripture falleth not to the ground for Gods way is perfect and his word is tryed Ps 18 ver 30. O is it not also sure and a conclusion well grounded that He is a buckler to those who trust in him none needs fear to venture his interests through time on the word yea if there could be any thing greater then a Heaven or eternal salvation the testimony of the God of truth might be sufficient security for the same it is a small matter how this World doth reel and stagger or what be the changes of outward things that is eneugh the promises of the Word shall certainly take place and the expectation of the Saints shall not make them ashamed FINIS For filling up some vacant pages a few Scriptures are set down pointing at the present condition or what may be apprehended to be coming concerning either sin or judgement doctrine or duty wherein each Reader is desired not so much to apply to others as to himself and not to himself but what he may be sure is his due and because there was not room for setting down the whole Texts these may be consulted and considered in the Bible only for memories cause a litle hint is given of each passage EZek. 3 17. c. 21. A Watchman to warn righteous and wicked Ierem. 1 17 18 19. Speak what I command thee iron pillar c. Amos 3 7. Secret revealed to servants the Prophets Galat. 4 16. Am I your enemy telling the truth Luk. 12 42. c. 48. Faithfull wise steward to give portion in season Ierem. 7 27 28. Speak but they will not hearken Ezek. 2 5. Whither they will hear or forebear Ezr. 7 23. Whatsoever is commanded by the God of Heaven c. Deut. 12. 32. Adde not diminish not Galat. 1 8. Who preacheth another Gospel is accursed Galat. 2 5. We gave place not for an houre Hebr. 8 5. According to pattern shewed in mount Hebr. 3 1 2. Consider Christ faithfull in his house Matth. 17 5. This is my beloved Son hear him Luk. 20 25. Give to Cesar Cesars and to God Gods Psal 2 6. I have set my King on Zion Math. 15 13 14. Every plant not planted by my Father rooted up Math. 16 12. Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees 2 King 11 17. Jehoiadah made a Covenant c. Gal. 3 15. Though a mans Covenant no man annuls Isai 24 5. Broken the everlasting Covenant Exod. 32 8. They have turned aside quickly Deut. 32 5 6. Do ye thus requite the Lord Jerem 34 18. c. 21. I will give the men that have transgressed my Covenant c. Ezek. 17 15. c. 19. Shall he break the Covenant and Prosper Prov. 20 25. It is a snare after vows to make enquiry Levit 26 25. A sword to avenge quarrel of Covenant 2 Chron. 24 17. c. 24 loash and Princes left the house of God 2 King 16 10. c. 18. Ahaz altar of Damascus Vrijah 2 Chron 13 9. Ye have cast out the Lords Priests 1 King 12 26. c. 33. Jeroboams devised worship and Priests Hos 7 3 4 5. Made glad with lies adulterers bottles of wine Hos 10 3 4 Feared not the Lord swearing falsly Zechar. 5 4. Curse in house of false swearer Malach.
3 5. Swift witness against false swearers Ezek. 8 6. Thou shalt see greater abominations Jer. 5 25 c. 31. Overpass the deeds of the wicked c. Psal 58 1. c. 5. Deaf adder hears not charming Psal 94 20 c 23. That frameth mischief by a Law Psal 2 1 2 3. Rage against the Lord and his anointed Ezek. 22 25. c. 31. Conspiracy of Prophets Priests Princes Hos 5 1. A snare on Mizpah Jerem. 5 1 c 14. Seek if ye can finde a man c. Isai 22 12 13 14. Let us eat drink tomorrow dy Isai 26 10 11. They will not see but shall see Psal 28 5 They regard not the works of the Lord. Hos 5 10 11. Willingly walked after the Command John 19 15. We have no King bur Cesar Eccles 5 8. Marvel not at oppression Prov. 28 15 16 17. A wicked ruler over poor People Prov. 21 13. He shall cry himself and not be heard Hos 4 1. c. 6. The Lord hath a controversy c. Jerem. 6 13 14 15. They were not at all ashamed Psal 21 8. c. 13. Thine hand shall finde not thine enemyes Luk. 19 29. Those mine enemies stay before me Isai 8 11. c. 22. Say not a confederacy c. Micah 2 1 2 3. Work evil upon their beds c. Psal 35 20. Devise against the quiet in the land Prov. 14 31 Who oppresseth poor reprocheth his maker Prov. 28 3 4. Sweeping rain that leaveth no food Isai 10 1 2 3. Decree unrighteous decrees Prov. 17 15. Who justify wicked and condemn the just Psal 11 2 3. If foundations be destroyed c. Jerem. 11 9 10 11. A conspiracy broken my Covenant Amos 6 1. c. 6. Put far away the evil day c. Jerem. 9 1. c. 9. Oh that my head were waters c. Psal 5 9. No faithfulness in their mouth Prov. 26 25. If he speak fair believe him not Psal 12 8. Wicked walk on every side when vilest c. Jerem. 8 6 7. No man said what have I done Dan 11 31. c. 35. That do wickedly against Covenant c. Dan. 12 10. The wicked shall do wickedly Isai 28 14. c. 22. Made a Covenant with death c. Isai 29 13. c 16. Fear taught by precept of men Math. 15 9. In vain they worship me Mark 7 9. Ye reject the commandment of God Jerem. 2 11 12 13. Hath a Nation changed their Gods Jerem 2 21. c. 24. Turned to a degenerate plant Malach. 3 14 15. It is vain to serve God Act 7 51 52. Ye alwayes resist the Goly Ghost Isai 5 8 9. Wo to them that joyn house to house Isai 5 20 c. 23. Wo to them that call evil good Isai 9 12. c. 17. For all this anger is not turned away Zeph. 3 1. c. 5. Wo to the filthy and polluted city Zeph. 1 8 12. I will search Jerusalem with candles Isai 65 11. c. 16. My servants shall eat but ye c. Math. 6 12 13. I will make thee sick in smitting thee Isai 3 9. c 15. They declare their sin as Sodom Eccles 8 11 12 13. Because sentence not execute speedily Isai 1 21. c. 24. How is faithful city become an harlot 1 King 22 8. Ahab hated Micaiah Prov. 15 12. A scorner loveth not reprover Isai 30 8. c. 14. They say to seers See not 2 Tim. 4 3. They shall heap teachers having itching ears Isai 56 9. c. 12. Watchmen are blinde dumb greedy dogs Jerem. 14 13. c. 16. Prophets prophesy Lies Jerem. 23 9. c. 22. Both Prophet and Priests profane Math. 23 13. They nather go in nor suffer others Rom. 16 17 18. They serve not Christ but their belly 2 Cor. 11 13 14 15. Are transformed into Apostles of Christ Ezek. 13 22 23. They strengthen hands of wicked Malach. 2 8 9. I have made you base before the People Galat. 2 11 12 13. Peter and Barnabas dissembled Galat. 2. 18. If I build what I destroyed 1 King 13 18. The old Prophet deceived the young Nehem. 6 12 13 14 17 18 19. Some Jews favour the Enemy Ezek 44 5. c. 10. Strangers brought in Levits gone astray Isai 61 8. I hate robbery for burnt offering Ezr. 10 2. Hope in Israel concerning this thing 2 Tim. 2 24 25 26. In meekness instructing opposers 1 Cor. 2 7 8. Had they known they would not have ctucified 2 Chron. 7 14. If they pray I will hear and forgive Jerem. 3 1 13. Only acknowledge thine iniquity Jerem 4 1 c. 4. If thou wilt return return to me Dan. 4 17. Break off thy sins by righteousness Jerem. 3 3. c. 7. Amend your wayes and doings Jerem 26 12. c. 15. If ye amend the Lord will repent 2 Chron 12 5. c. 8. Princes and King humbled themselves 2 Chron. 33 12 13. Manasse humbled himself Ezek. 18 31 32. Why will ye die O house of Israel Hos 14 1 2. Take with you words Zechar. 1 3. c. 6. Turn to me and I will turn to you Zephan 3 1 2 3. Before the decree bring forth Jerem. 13 15. c. 18. Say to King and Queen Humble c. Jonah 3 5 c. 10. Niniveh repented Act. 3 19. Repent that sins may be blotted out Act. 8 22 23. If Perhaps it may be forgiven thee Jam. 4 8 9 10. Cleanse your hands ye sinners Levit. 26 40 41 42. If they confess and accept punishment of iniquity I will remember my Covenant Ezek. 16 59. c. 63. Thou despised the oath in breaking Covenant yet I will remember my Covenant 1 King 19 18. Yet I have left me 7000. Math. 28 5. Fear not ye ye seek Jesus Ezek. 9 4. A mark set on mourners Galat. 5 1. Stand fast in the liberty Ephes 5 11 12. Works of darkness rather reprove them Psal 26 5. I hate the congregation of evil doers Phil. 1 27. c. 30. Conversation as becometh the Gospel Dan. 6 5 13. Daniel regardeth not thee O King Act. 5 29. We ought to obey God rather then men 1 Pet. 4 17 18 19. Judgement begins at the house of God Rev. 2 10. Fear not what thou shall suffer Rev. 3 10 11 12. Behold I come quickly Math. 5 11 12. Blessed are ye when persecuted Math. 10 16. c. 42. As Sheep in midst of Wolves c. Math. 24 9. c. 13. They shall deliver you up c. Isai 52. 5 6. What have I here my People taken away c. Mark 10 28. c. 31. He shall receive an 100 fold 1 Pet. 2 20 21. Christ suffered leaving us an example 1 Pet. 3 14. c. 17. Be not affraid of their terrour John 15 18. c. 21. If World hate you it hated me before John 16 1 2 3. Who killeth you will think it Gods service Rom. 8 18. sufferings not worthy to be compared c. Heb. 10 36. c. 39. He that shall come will come 2 Cor. 12 9. My grace is sufficient for thee Zechar. 13 9. Bring third part through the fire 1 Cor 10 13. With temptation a way to escape 2 Cor. 4 8. c. 18. troubled on every side c. 2 Thes 1 5. c. 12. To you troubled rest with us Psal 12 5. Now will I arise sayeth the Lord. Luk. 18 7 8. Shall not God avenge his elect Jerem. 30 8. c. 11. I will break his yoke 2 King 19 30 31. Remnant shall take root and bear fruit Zechar. 4 6 7. Not by might but by my Spirit Isai 66 5. c. 14. Shall a Nation be born at once Micah 7 8 9 10. Rejoyce not against me O mine enemy Zechar. 12 3. Jerusalem made a burdensome stone Isai 49 24 25 26. Shall prey be taken from the mighty Isai 51 21 22 23. Cup put in hand of afflicters Ezek. 37 11 12. I will open your graves Zechar. 1 12. c. 21. Returned to Jerusalem with mercies Zechar. 9 15 16 17. The Lord shall defend them c. FINIS
THE FULFILLING OF THE SCRIPTURE OR An Essay shewing the Exact Accomplishment of the Word of God in his Works of Providence performed and to be performed For Confirming the Beleevers and Convincing the Atheists of the present time Containing in the End a few rare Histories of the Works and Servants of God in the Church of Scotland ISAI XLVI V. X. My counsel shall stand and I will do all my pleasure JOHN X V. XXXV And the Scripture cannot be broken ACT. 1 V. XVI Men and brethren This Scripture must needs have been fulfilled Printed in the Year 1669. THE EPISTLE TO THE READER READER It is like you mâ— expect some accompt anent the rise and occasion of this discourse that on so great and weighty a subject so small an essay should venture abroad especially in a time when it seemeth more safe and prudent to keep silence to be swift to hear and slow to speak which seldome hath an after challenge the Author will say litle for his apology herein though he hopeth he may finde it more easy to satisfy others then he did himself this fredome onely he shall take to confesse that sometime it hath been matter of earnest yea hatâ— caused some tossing and exercise upon his spirit and pressed a more serious enquiry and search with a respect to his own case to be perswaded anent the Scriptures divine authority that Godlines is not an empty name or shadow but of an undoubted truth which indeed of all other things is the greatest and of most near concernment and truely anent that this grave convincing argument of the Scriptures certain accomplishment hath not onely oft stared him in the face with a satisfying discovery and impression thereof as a most quieting and unanswerable demonstration of the truth but he must also say that by very remarkable confirmations from the Lord this hath been so convincingly witnessed to his experience as leaveth him under engadgement were such a poor testimony of weight to put his seal to the Word that it falleth not to the ground neither doth the promise of God fail It is a dark time now with the Church of Christ which we see every where almost suffering and afflicted whilest the whole earth besides seemeth to be at ease Christians also even beyond others in their privat lot trysted with very sharp tryals though I think suffering may be the least of our fear at this day while Ath-isme doth now appear on so formidable a grouth and hath a more threatning aspect then the rage or violence of men we see a saâ— dâ—cay likewise on the Churches abroad Religion every where under a great consumption and weaâ—ing out that seemeth to have reached it in its vital parts men search after an unusual way of sinning as if they scorned to be wicked at a common and ordinary rate prejudice easily taken up and enterâ—ained against the way of God whilest the good man doth alace perish without any affecting observation thereof the choise and excellent of the earth pluckt away and none to fill their roome Christians burials now frequent but the birth and inbringing of such to the Church rare This is indeed a sad subject and so much the sadder that few are found whose eye affecteth their heart whose teares and groaning seem to answer such a stroke and ruin which now is like to fall under our hand but I shall leave this prayer will be the best cure and is this day more fit then complaining to turn unto him who seeth the wayes of his People that he may heal them and can prevent these with mercy who seem least fit for the same onely two or three sad remarks of this time I cannot altogether passe which indeed are strange symptomes of the Churches present case and distemper 1. To see men own the doctrine of sanctification who yet can professedly disown yea make it their work by reproach to beget a prejudice against the practice thereof Oh strange to finde such as will dip their pen in gall against a tender and strict walk in Religion and revile it in the power thereof whilest they doe not deny these truths and principles that necessarily oblidge to such a tender practice who in the most grave concerning dutyes of Christianity think it enough to charge their brethen with Pharisaical ostentation and hypocrisy whilest they must confesse these duetyes to be unquestionably binding and that they can be no competent judges of such a challenge which the great witnes of the heart and inward parts of men can onely determine 2. It is a sad remark also of the time that Protestant writers professing the Reformed Religion shall state themselves in opposition to the most concerning grounds thereof such as imputed righteousnes and justification by faith which are well called Articulus stantis cadentis Ecelesiâ— I cannot have that charity that it is from ignorance but from a height of malice that some of late reproach the Protestant doctrine in this great fundamental of justification as if it pressed beleeving and resting upon Christ without respect to works and holines I confesse we put not inherent righteousnes in the room of imputed though we assert each is necessary in their own place the one in order to ouâ— right the other in order to the actual participation of that right yea that holines is absolutly necessary not only necessitate praecepti sed medii and justifying faith doth necessarily require works sed non qua quatenus justificat but sure if these men grant we are justifyed by the satisfaction of Christ they must needs confesse it is by imputation since if the debtour be acquit by the cautioners payment is it not by the imputation there of to him O sad to see some put their invention upon the rack how to wound the Church yea a death wound it would be if they could reach their end in that great truth of imputed righteousnes but it were best they denyed that sixt ver of the 4. Chap. to the Rom. to be canonick Scripture which none can read and shift it being so clear that the blessed man is there held forth uuto whom God imputeth righteousnes without works sure that cannot be inherent righteousnes else it were contradictio in adjecto I professe these what ever they pretend I must look on as adversaryes to the Reformed Churches and there is nothing more dangerous then a pirat going forth under a counterfut flag 3. Is it not likewise sad yea astonishing to see Ministers now in these times who are the expresse Embassadors of Christ given to the Church for her edification stand so directly crosse to the very end of their work and Ministry many of whom may be said that knowingly and deliberatly they oppose piety that such should persecute whose work is to feed and wound in stead of healing grieve the spirit of the Godly who should be helpers of their joy that none are a greater plague to corrupt the Church and cause the