Selected quad for the lemma: love_n

Word A Word B Word C Word D Occurrence Frequency Band MI MI Band Prominent
love_n affection_n fancy_n great_a 227 4 2.1115 3 false
View all documents for the selected quad

Text snippets containing the quad

ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A58808 Practical discourses concerning obedience and the love of God. Vol. II by John Scott ... Scott, John, 1639-1695.; Zouch, Humphrey. 1698 (1698) Wing S2062; ESTC R32130 213,666 480

There are 37 snippets containing the selected quad. | View original text

general_o hate_v those_o who_o they_o fear_v and_o even_o whilst_o they_o be_v fawn_a and_o cringe_v to_o their_o imperious_a master_n have_v much_o rather_o cut_v their_o throat_n if_o they_o can_v do_v it_o with_o safety_n so_o when_o man_n be_v act_v in_o their_o obedience_n to_o god_n mere_o by_o a_o slavish_a dread_a of_o his_o vengeance_n they_o general_o hate_v he_o whilst_o they_o obey_v he_o and_o if_o it_o be_v in_o their_o power_n will_v rather_o ungod_n he_o and_o pull_v he_o down_o from_o his_o throne_n than_o render_v he_o those_o homage_n which_o they_o dare_v not_o withhold_v now_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o he_o who_o know_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o see_v the_o inmost_a work_n of_o their_o mind_n shall_v ever_o be_v please_v with_o such_o a_o base_a and_o sordid_a religion_n a_o religion_n that_o be_v conjoin_v with_o such_o a_o inveterate_a hatred_n to_o his_o person_n and_o government_n and_o restrain_v man_n only_o by_o the_o fear_n of_o punishment_n from_o fly_v in_o his_o face_n a_o religion_n that_o be_v whole_o found_v in_o passion_n that_o cause_v we_o to_o hate_v he_o as_o well_o as_o to_o fawn_v upon_o he_o that_o carry_v in_o it_o a_o secret_a antipathy_n to_o his_o nature_n and_o his_o law_n and_o will_v much_o rather_o vent_v itself_o in_o a_o open_a rebellion_n than_o in_o a_o force_a submission_n have_v it_o but_o power_n enough_o to_o defend_v itself_o from_o his_o fury_n and_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o best_a religion_n that_o mankind_n be_v capable_a of_o without_o the_o love_n of_o god_n so_o that_o if_o ever_o we_o intend_v to_o keep_v up_o a_o generous_a religion_n in_o our_o soul_n such_o as_o become_v freeborn_a mind_n to_o offer_v to_o the_o great_a sovereign_n of_o the_o world_n we_o must_v be_v sure_a to_o purge_v out_o all_o those_o sour_a and_o rigid_a notion_n of_o god_n that_o represent_v he_o any_o way_n unlovely_a to_o we_o 2_o lie_n hence_o i_o infer_v how_o miserable_o those_o man_n be_v mistake_v that_o make_v any_o thing_n a_o sign_n of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n but_o what_o tend_v to_o their_o keep_v his_o commandment_n there_o be_v too_o many_o person_n that_o be_v apt_a to_o measure_v their_o affection_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n by_o the_o mere_a impression_n of_o sensitive_a passion_n because_o upon_o some_o move_a and_o affect_v representation_n of_o those_o amiable_a object_n they_o feel_v in_o themselves_o the_o same_o sensitive_a emotion_n as_o they_o be_v wont_n to_o do_v when_o they_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o other_o thing_n that_o be_v if_o they_o feel_v their_o spirit_n soothe_v and_o ravish_v their_o heart_n and_o their_o heart_n diffuse_v and_o open_v themselves_o to_o let_v in_o those_o soft_a and_o amorous_a spirit_n they_o conclude_v themselves_o present_o infinite_o in_o love_n with_o god_n and_o with_o their_o saviour_n whereas_o many_o time_n all_o this_o be_v mere_o the_o effect_n of_o a_o amorous_a complexion_n tinctured_a and_o inflame_v with_o religious_a idea_n and_o be_v common_o as_o remote_a from_o the_o virtue_n of_o love_n as_o light_n be_v from_o darkness_n or_o heaven_n from_o hell_n for_o as_o there_o be_v many_o man_n who_o be_v sincere_o good_a that_o yet_o can_v raise_v their_o sensitive_a passion_n in_o their_o religious_a exercise_n that_o be_v hearty_o sorry_a for_o their_o sin_n and_o yet_o can_v weep_v for_o they_o and_o do_v entire_o love_v god_n and_o delight_n in_o his_o service_n and_o yet_o can_v move_v their_o blood_n and_o spirit_n into_o the_o ravish_a passion_n of_o sensitive_a love_n and_o joy_n so_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n there_o be_v many_o gross_a hypocrite_n that_o have_v not_o one_o dram_n of_o true_a piety_n in_o they_o who_o yet_o in_o their_o religious_a exercise_n can_v put_v themselves_o into_o wondrous_a transport_v of_o bodily_a passion_n who_o can_v pour_v out_o their_o confession_n in_o flood_n of_o tear_n and_o cause_v their_o heart_n to_o dilate_v into_o rapture_n of_o sensitive_a love_n and_o their_o spirit_n to_o tickle_v they_o into_o ecstasy_n of_o joy_n which_o be_v pure_o to_o be_v resolve_v into_o the_o different_a temper_n of_o man_n body_n some_o temper_n be_v natural_o so_o calm_a and_o sedate_v as_o that_o they_o be_v scarce_o capable_a of_o be_v disturb_v into_o a_o passion_n other_o again_o so_o soft_a and_o tender_a and_o impressible_a that_o the_o most_o frivolous_a fancy_n be_v able_a to_o raise_v a_o commotion_n in_o they_o and_o hence_o we_o see_v that_o some_o people_n can_v weep_v most_o hearty_o at_o the_o misfortune_n of_o lover_n in_o play_n and_o romance_n and_o as_o hearty_o rejoice_v at_o their_o good_a success_n though_o they_o know_v that_o both_o be_v but_o fiction_n and_o mere_a idea_n of_o fancy_n whereas_o other_o can_v scarce_a shed_v a_o tear_n or_o raise_v a_o sensitive_a joy_n at_o the_o real_a calamity_n or_o prosperity_n of_o a_o friend_n who_o yet_o they_o love_v a_o great_a deal_n better_o than_o other_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o do_v their_o feign_a and_o romantic_a hero_n and_o yet_o because_o of_o these_o sensitive_a transport_v which_o man_n do_v sometime_o feel_v in_o themselves_o when_o their_o fancy_n have_v be_v chafe_v a_o while_n with_o a_o pathetical_a description_n of_o god_n they_o present_o vote_v themselves_o his_o friend_n and_o lover_n whereas_o in_o truth_n that_o which_o common_o move_v their_o affection_n be_v not_o any_o thing_n real_a either_o in_o god_n or_o in_o christ_n but_o some_o sensual_a beauty_n attribute_v to_o they_o in_o fanciful_a description_n that_o smite_v their_o carnalize_v fancy_n for_o general_o we_o find_v that_o it_o be_v a_o metaphorical_a god_n and_o christ_n that_o such_o man_n fall_v in_o love_n with_o they_o set_v up_o a_o idol_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o their_o fancy_n and_o dress_v it_o in_o such_o carnal_a metaphor_n and_o allusion_n as_o their_o sensual_a mind_n be_v most_o apt_a to_o be_v take_v with_o and_o then_o imagine_v that_o it_o smile_v on_o they_o and_o kiss_n and_o caress_n they_o with_o all_o the_o pretty_a endearment_n of_o a_o dote_a lover_n whereupon_o they_o grow_v so_o extreme_o fond_a of_o it_o that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o forbear_v hug_v and_o dandle_v it_o but_o alas_o poor_a man_n they_o hug_v the_o cloud_n instead_o of_o the_o goddess_n and_o while_o they_o think_v they_o have_v god_n and_o christ_n in_o their_o arm_n embrace_v nothing_o but_o a_o spectre_n of_o their_o own_o fancy_n for_o let_v but_o any_o other_o person_n though_o it_o be_v only_o the_o hero_n of_o a_o romance_n or_o the_o lover_n of_o a_o play_n be_v but_o describe_v to_o they_o in_o the_o same_o language_n and_o the_o same_o glister_a allusion_n and_o they_o shall_v experience_n in_o themselves_o the_o same_o passion_n for_o they_o as_o they_o have_v for_o their_o god_n and_o their_o saviour_n thus_o in_o the_o roman_a nunnery_n and_o monastery_n we_o general_o find_v the_o monk_n fall_v in_o love_n with_o the_o virgin_n mary_n whilst_o the_o nun_n be_v all_o enamour_a with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v they_o choose_v the_o object_n of_o their_o love_n according_a to_o the_o different_a inclination_n of_o their_o sex_n and_o the_o reason_n why_o they_o choose_v so_o different_o be_v no_o other_o than_o this_o that_o they_o both_o frame_n to_o themselves_o such_o different_a carnal_a idea_n of_o the_o different_a object_n of_o their_o love_n as_o be_v most_o suitable_a and_o agreeable_a to_o their_o carnal_a inclination_n but_o very_o common_o neither_o the_o monk_n love_v the_o virgin_n mary_n nor_o the_o nun_n jesus_n christ_n but_o they_o both_o mere_o dote_v upon_o the_o different_a image_n of_o their_o own_o fancy_n which_o do_v not_o at_o all_o represent_v those_o divine_a beauty_n for_o which_o those_o sacred_a person_n do_v so_o well_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v and_o thus_o it_o be_v too_o common_o among_o ourselves_o when_o yet_o we_o pretend_v to_o be_v zealous_a lover_n of_o god_n wherefore_o unless_o we_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o deceive_v ourselves_o let_v we_o no_o long_o depend_v on_o such_o fallacious_a evidence_n as_o these_o but_o let_v we_o try_v our_o love_n of_o god_n by_o his_o own_o touchstone_n and_o that_o be_v our_o obedience_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will._n if_o any_o man_n love_v i_o say_v our_o saviour_n he_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n jo._n fourteen_o 23_o and_o you_o be_v my_o friend_n if_o you_o do_v whatsoever_o i_o command_v you_o for_o this_o say_v st._n john_n be_v love_n that_o you_o walk_v after_o his_o commandment_n eph._n two_o 6_o for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o of_o christ_n be_v a_o rational_a love_n be_v only_o to_o be_v value_v by_o those_o rational_a effect_n it_o produce_v in_o we_o if_o it_o transform_v we_o into_o the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o make_v we_o
apollo_n so_o that_o to_o conclude_v that_o we_o love_v god_n from_o those_o corporeal_a passion_n be_v very_o unsafe_a and_o dangerous_a and_o we_o may_v almost_o as_o certain_o judge_v of_o the_o hunger_n of_o our_o soul_n after_o righteousness_n by_o the_o hunger_n of_o our_o body_n after_o bread_n as_o of_o the_o love_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o god_n by_o our_o bodily_a ravishment_n and_o passion_n for_o bodily_a passion_n differ_v according_a to_o the_o temper_n of_o the_o body_n some_o temper_n be_v so_o soft_a and_o impressive_a that_o the_o most_o frivolous_a fancy_n will_v affect_v they_o other_o so_o hard_a and_o sturdy_a that_o the_o great_a reason_n will_v hardly_o move_v they_o and_o consequent_o person_n of_o this_o temper_n though_o they_o shall_v love_v god_n much_o more_o than_o the_o other_o and_o have_v a_o much_o high_a esteem_n of_o and_o more_o rational_a complacency_n in_o his_o divine_a perfection_n yet_o will_v have_v much_o less_o of_o corporeal_a passion_n intermingle_v with_o it_o i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o even_o this_o sensitive_a passion_n when_o prudent_o manage_v may_v be_v of_o great_a advantage_n to_o a_o rational_a love_n for_o the_o passion_n be_v soft_a and_o easy_a and_o apt_a to_o follow_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o soul_n do_v natural_o intend_v and_o quicken_v they_o and_o render_v they_o more_o vigorous_a and_o active_a and_o we_o have_v very_o much_o cause_n to_o bless_v god_n even_o for_o that_o sensitive_a joy_n and_o complacency_n which_o accompany_v our_o love_n to_o he_o since_o this_o i_o doubt_v not_o be_v many_o time_n excite_v by_o his_o own_o bless_a spirit_n to_o quicken_v and_o invigorate_v our_o rational_a affection_n and_o render_v it_o more_o active_a and_o vivacious_a but_o that_o which_o i_o aim_v at_o be_v only_o this_o if_o possible_a to_o beat_v man_n off_o from_o measure_v the_o strength_n or_o weakness_n the_o truth_n or_o falsehood_n of_o their_o love_n to_o god_n by_o any_o corporeal_a passion_n whatsoever_o since_o man_n may_v we_o see_v and_o many_o time_n have_v a_o vehement_a passion_n without_o any_o reason_n and_o all_o those_o tickle_n and_o ravishment_n of_o heart_n which_o too_o many_o man_n mistake_v for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v very_o often_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o a_o chafe_v and_o overheat_v fancy_n but_o that_o which_o be_v real_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v always_o found_v in_o a_o rational_a conviction_n of_o the_o beauty_n and_o goodness_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o proceed_v from_o a_o high_a esteem_n and_o profound_a veneration_n of_o his_o perfection_n for_o no_o man_n love_v god_n but_o can_v give_v very_o good_a reason_n why_o he_o love_v he_o he_o be_v not_o move_v to_o it_o by_o a_o musical_a tone_n or_o a_o gaudy_a metaphor_n or_o a_o unaccountable_a impulse_n of_o fancy_n but_o by_o the_o real_a charm_n and_o attraction_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n and_o perfection_n which_o dart_v through_o his_o mind_n like_o the_o sunbeam_n through_o a_o burning-glass_n have_v kindle_v his_o affection_n and_o make_v he_o love_v with_o infinite_a reason_n so_o that_o it_o be_v his_o understanding_n that_o inamour_n his_o will_n and_o that_o which_o make_v he_o a_o lover_n of_o god_n be_v the_o deep_a sense_n of_o his_o reason_n how_o much_o he_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v he_o have_v serious_o consider_v how_o lovely_a god_n be_v in_o himself_o how_o kind_a and_o love_a unto_o all_o his_o creation_n and_o what_o particular_a obligation_n god_n have_v lay_v upon_o he_o to_o return_v he_o love_n for_o love_n and_o this_o give_v fire_n to_o his_o love_n and_o affect_v his_o will_n with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n and_o though_o perhaps_o he_o may_v not_o feel_v those_o passionate_a soothe_n and_o expansion_n of_o heart_n which_o sensitive_a joy_n be_v wont_a to_o produce_v yet_o he_o find_v himself_o high_o please_v with_o god_n and_o his_o will_n acquiesce_n in_o the_o thought_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o perfection_n with_o a_o calm_a and_o even_a complacency_n and_o thus_o his_o will_n be_v inflame_v with_o the_o pure_a light_n of_o his_o understanding_n and_o his_o love_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o warm_a reflection_n of_o his_o reason_n thus_o psal._n cxvi_o 1_o i_o love_v the_o lord_n say_v david_n and_o then_o he_o go_v on_o to_o enumerate_v the_o vast_a and_o important_a reason_n why_o he_o love_v he_o because_o he_o have_v incline_v his_o ear_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n viij_o 3_o if_o any_o man_n love_n god_n the_o same_o i._n e._n god_n be_v know_v of_o he_o intimate_v that_o all_o true_a love_n of_o god_n be_v found_v in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o 3_o dly_z the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v a_o fix_a as_o well_o as_o rational_a complacency_n in_o he_o by_o which_o i_o distinguish_v this_o heavenly_a affection_n from_o those_o short_a and_o transitory_a fit_n of_o love_n that_o like_a flash_n of_o lightning_n come_v and_o go_v appear_v and_o vanish_v in_o a_o moment_n for_o thus_o upon_o some_o affect_a providence_n or_o passionate_a representation_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n it_o be_v very_o ordinary_a for_o man_n to_o be_v chafe_v into_o a_o amorous_a fit_a and_o touch_v with_o very_o tender_a resentment_n of_o the_o loveliness_n and_o love_n of_o god_n so_o that_o at_o present_a they_o seem_v to_o be_v in_o rapture_n of_o affection_n and_o with_o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n to_o be_v wondrous_o sick_a of_o love_n but_o alas_o it_o common_o prove_v but_o a_o sudden_a qualm_n that_o after_o a_o pang_n or_o two_o go_v over_o and_o so_o they_o be_v well_o again_o immediate_o for_o upon_o their_o next_o encounter_n with_o temptation_n or_o intermixture_n with_o secular_a affair_n their_o hot_a love_n begin_v to_o languish_v and_o quick_o die_v into_o a_o cold_a indifferency_n and_o notwithstanding_o all_o the_o reason_n and_o obligation_n that_o they_o have_v to_o the_o contrary_a their_o fickle_a heart_n unwind_v again_o and_o by_o degree_n decline_v and_o sink_v into_o their_o old_a habitual_a aversation_n to_o god_n and_o goodness_n which_o be_v a_o plain_a evidence_n that_o that_o which_o at_o first_o look_v like_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o they_o be_v only_o a_o sudden_a blush_v of_o passion_n and_o not_o the_o true_a complexion_n of_o their_o soul_n for_o when_o once_o a_o man_n be_v bring_v to_o love_n god_n upon_o principle_n of_o reason_n and_o consideration_n it_o be_v much_o more_o difficult_a to_o extinguish_v this_o than_o any_o virtue_n whatsoever_o because_o of_o all_o the_o virtue_n of_o religion_n this_o be_v found_v in_o the_o great_a reason_n and_o accompany_v with_o the_o strong_a pleasure_n for_o love_n itself_o consist_v in_o delight_n and_o complacency_n where_o the_o object_n of_o it_o be_v a_o infinite_a good_a there_o be_v not_o only_o infinite_a reason_n to_o love_n but_o infinite_a occasion_n of_o pleasure_n and_o complacency_n when_o therefore_o our_o love_n of_o god_n be_v back_v with_o so_o much_o reason_n and_o sweeten_v with_o so_o much_o pleasure_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a we_o shall_v extinguish_v it_o without_o do_v the_o great_a violence_n to_o ourselves_o for_o i_o be_o very_o persuade_v that_o one_o of_o the_o hard_a moral_a change_n that_o can_v be_v make_v upon_o a_o rational_a creature_n be_v from_o a_o lover_n to_o become_v a_o enemy_n to_o god_n for_o wheresoever_o this_o heavenly_a affection_n be_v it_o sweeten_v and_o endear_v itself_o by_o its_o own_o appendent_a pleasure_n which_o be_v in_o themselves_o a_o sufficient_a counter-charm_n against_o all_o temptation_n to_o the_o contrary_n so_o that_o when_o once_o it_o be_v kindle_v in_o the_o soul_n like_o a_o subtle_a flame_n it_o will_v by_v degree_n insinuate_v far_o and_o far_o till_o it_o have_v eat_v into_o the_o centre_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o turn_v it_o all_o into_o its_o own_o substance_n wherefore_o this_o we_o may_v certain_o conclude_v upon_o that_o he_o who_o can_v sudden_o or_o easy_o entertain_v a_o aversation_n to_o god_n and_o goodness_n do_v never_o true_o love_n for_o love_n say_v the_o wise_a man_n be_v strong_a as_o death_n and_o many_o water_n can_v quench_v it_o cant._n viij_o 6_o 7._o wheresoever_o it_o light_v it_o cling_v and_o can_v never_o be_v tear_v away_o again_o without_o violent_a spasm_n and_o convulsion_n so_o that_o whatsoever_o passion_n we_o may_v have_v for_o god_n we_o can_v never_o conclude_v it_o to_o be_v hearty_a love_n till_o it_o fix_v and_o settle_v in_o our_o soul_n till_o our_o will_n be_v habitual_o please_v with_o god_n and_o do_v entertain_v the_o thought_n of_o his_o love_n and_o loveliness_n with_o a_o constant_a complacency_n and_o delight_n and_o then_o we_o may_v venture_v to_o call_v it_o love_n and_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o nativity_n of_o this_o heavenly_a flame_n within_o we_o 4_o
service_n into_o wage_n and_o pay_v herself_o with_o the_o pleasure_n of_o please_a she_o count_v all_o command_n favour_n and_o be_v high_o satisfy_v with_o the_o honour_n of_o obey_v and_o if_o she_o can_v but_o accomplish_v the_o pleasure_n of_o her_o belove_a she_o think_v herself_o whole_o recompense_v for_o all_o her_o tedious_a toil_n and_o labour_n and_o certain_o if_o our_o soul_n be_v but_o inspire_v with_o any_o considerable_a degree_n of_o this_o heavenly_a passion_n we_o shall_v find_v such_o pleasure_n in_o please_a god_n as_o will_v for_o ever_o engage_v we_o to_o serve_v he_o for_o then_o every_o service_n that_o we_o render_v he_o will_v be_v a_o free_a sally_n of_o a_o enamour_a will_n and_o so_o our_o heart_n will_v be_v wrap_v up_o in_o every_o duty_n and_o our_o soul_n will_v still_o be_v ascend_v heavenwards_o like_o the_o angel_n that_o appear_v to_o manoah_n in_o the_o flame_n of_o all_o our_o sacrifice_n so_o that_o this_o excellency_n also_o love_n have_v above_o all_o other_o principle_n of_o obedience_n that_o it_o render_v our_o obedience_n most_o free_a most_o cheerful_a and_o voluntary_a 4._o and_o last_o love_n render_v our_o obedience_n constant_a and_o steady_a when_o a_o man_n religion_n be_v only_o animate_v with_o fear_n as_o it_o be_v weak_a and_o languid_a while_o it_o live_v so_o it_o general_o hasten_v to_o a_o untimely_a period_n for_o fear_n be_v a_o passion_n so_o burdensome_a to_o humane_a nature_n that_o we_o can_v but_o desire_v to_o quit_v and_o discharge_v ourselves_o of_o it_o as_o soon_o as_o possible_a may_v be_v and_o according_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o there_o be_v torment_n in_o fear_n 1_o joh._n 4.18_o for_o it_o separate_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o herself_o and_o give_v such_o a_o ungrateful_a tangle_n to_o all_o her_o pleasure_n that_o she_o can_v find_v no_o rest_n or_o satisfaction_n in_o any_o thing_n so_o long_o as_o she_o be_v haunt_v with_o it_o now_o when_o that_o which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o our_o religion_n be_v a_o burden_n to_o we_o we_o can_v but_o endeavour_v if_o possible_a to_o ease_v ourselves_o of_o it_o which_o we_o can_v otherwise_o do_v but_o either_o by_o go_v forward_o to_o love_n or_o by_o return_v back_o again_o to_o sinful_a presumption_n for_o as_o for_o fear_n it_o be_v like_o the_o wilderness_n through_o which_o israel_n pass_v a_o place_n where_o there_o be_v no_o abide_n with_o content_a and_o satisfaction_n so_o that_o we_o must_v go_v back_o again_o into_o egypt_n or_o forward_o to_o canaan_n or_o be_v content_a to_o sit_v down_o in_o misery_n and_o disquiet_n for_o we_o can_v never_o be_v at_o rest_n till_o our_o fear_n be_v either_o sweeten_v with_o a_o intermixture_n of_o love_n or_o stifle_v with_o vain_a hope_n and_o ungrounded_a presumption_n and_o there_o be_v so_o many_o art_n of_o self-deceiving_a in_o the_o world_n and_o skin_v over_o the_o wound_n of_o conscience_n if_o man_n do_v not_o speedy_o cure_v their_o fear_n by_o love_n they_o will_v soon_o find_v some_o other_o way_n to_o extinguish_v it_o either_o they_o will_v promise_v their_o conscience_n a_o future_a amendment_n or_o else_o they_o will_v present_o amend_v by_o half_n or_o else_o they_o will_v take_v sanctuary_n in_o some_o false_a notion_n in_o religion_n that_o tend_v to_o secure_v they_o in_o their_o sin_n and_o render_v they_o quiet_o wicked_a these_o or_o some_o other_o way_n they_o will_v find_v to_o quit_v themselves_o of_o this_o troublesome_a passion_n and_o then_o when_o the_o weight_n of_o their_o fear_n be_v down_o the_o wheel_n of_o their_o religion_n will_v stand_v still_o immediate_o so_o that_o you_o plain_o see_v that_o bare_a fear_n can_v never_o be_v a_o last_a and_o steady_a principle_n of_o religion_n and_o that_o because_o it_o be_v so_o troublesome_a that_o man_n will_v not_o long_o have_v the_o patience_n to_o endure_v it_o but_o as_o for_o love_n that_o be_v natural_o a_o most_o sweet_a and_o grateful_a passion_n it_o soothe_v and_o ravish_v the_o heart_n and_o put_v the_o spirit_n into_o a_o brisk_a and_o generous_a motion_n and_o so_o long_o as_o it_o continue_v pure_a love_n be_v always_o attend_v with_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n and_o be_v so_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v much_o more_o so_o when_o it_o be_v terminate_v upon_o god_n for_o all_o the_o disquietude_n of_o love_n arise_v from_o the_o imperfection_n of_o its_o object_n either_o the_o person_n belove_v be_v coy_a and_o cruel_a which_o imbitter_v the_o love_n with_o sorrow_n and_o regret_n or_o else_o he_o be_v fickle_a and_o inconstant_a which_o inflame_v it_o with_o rage_n and_o jealousy_n but_o when_o our_o love_n fix_v upon_o god_n it_o have_v neither_o of_o these_o cause_n of_o disturbance_n for_o he_o be_v infinite_o love_v unto_o all_o that_o love_v he_o and_o he_o never_o change_v the_o object_n of_o his_o love_n unless_o they_o change_v and_o prove_v fickle_a and_o unconstant_a in_o their_o affection_n to_o he_o for_o whilst_o he_o have_v the_o same_o reason_n to_o love_n his_o love_n be_v always_o the_o same_o and_o be_v as_o constant_a and_o immutable_a as_o his_o be_v so_o that_o in_o the_o love_n of_o god_n there_o be_v no_o reason_n for_o any_o of_o those_o grief_n and_o jealousy_n that_o be_v so_o common_o intermingle_v with_o carnal_a love_n and_o affection_n for_o it_o be_v fix_v upon_o a_o object_n that_o do_v so_o well_o deserve_v and_o will_v so_o ample_o requite_v it_o it_o can_v find_v nothing_o there_o but_o infinite_a cause_n of_o pleasure_n and_o complacency_n for_o the_o object_n of_o our_o love_n be_v infinite_o lovely_a and_o infinite_o love_v the_o affection_n must_v needs_o be_v unspeakable_o please_v and_o grateful_a so_o that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n you_o see_v must_v needs_o be_v sweet_a and_o serene_a and_o productive_a of_o the_o most_o delightful_a and_o ravish_a emotion_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o he_o but_o what_o tend_v to_o its_o great_a content_n and_o satisfaction_n and_o be_v so_o it_o must_v necessary_o prove_v a_o most_o last_a principle_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o because_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v it_o be_v always_o attend_v with_o such_o substantial_a pleasure_n and_o delight_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o temptation_n to_o extinguish_v it_o for_o so_o long_o as_o we_o feel_v nothing_o in_o it_o but_o what_o be_v high_o grateful_a to_o our_o nature_n we_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o use_v art_n to_o quit_v ourselves_o of_o it_o that_o we_o shall_v think_v it_o our_o great_a interest_n to_o promote_v and_o increase_v it_o for_o still_o the_o more_o we_o love_v he_o the_o better_a we_o shall_v be_v please_v and_o the_o better_a we_o be_v please_v the_o more_o we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o love_v he_o and_o so_o our_o pleasure_n and_o our_o love_n will_v mutual_o provoke_v and_o augment_v one_o another_o till_o both_o be_v arrive_v to_o the_o utmost_a height_n of_o their_o perfection_n thus_o the_o love_n of_o god_n you_o see_v be_v a_o last_a principle_n it_o be_v a_o fire_n that_o can_v live_v upon_o the_o fuel_n which_o itself_o create_v and_o maintain_v itself_o for_o ever_o in_o strength_n and_o vigour_n by_o feed_v upon_o the_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n which_o it_o produce_v so_o that_o if_o this_o be_v the_o principle_n upon_o which_o we_o do_v obey_v our_o religion_n must_v needs_o be_v last_v and_o steady_a because_o it_o be_v act_v and_o animate_v by_o a_o principle_n that_o be_v so_o have_v thus_o demonstrate_v the_o proposition_n in_o the_o text_n that_o wheresoever_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v it_o will_v express_v itself_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o will_n i_o shall_v now_o conclude_v the_o whole_a with_o some_o practical_a inference_n 1._o from_o hence_o i_o infer_v how_o necessary_a it_o be_v to_o the_o very_o be_v of_o religion_n to_o keep_v up_o good_a thought_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n because_o without_o such_o man_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o love_v he_o and_o without_o love_n they_o will_v never_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o through_o submission_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will._n for_o it_o be_v by_o love_n alone_o that_o god_n reign_v in_o our_o heart_n and_o do_v both_o acquire_v and_o preserve_v the_o empire_n of_o our_o soul_n we_o may_v be_v awe_v into_o a_o force_a and_o fawn_a submission_n mere_o by_o the_o dread_a and_o terror_n of_o his_o power_n and_o be_v oblige_v to_o serve_v he_o as_o the_o indian_n do_v the_o devil_n for_o fear_v he_o shall_v do_v we_o a_o mischief_n and_o tear_v we_o in_o piece_n but_o this_o be_v mere_o the_o religion_n of_o slave_n who_o be_v force_v to_o undergo_v one_o evil_a for_o fear_n of_o another_o and_o to_o do_v what_o they_o hate_v for_o fear_v of_o suffer_v what_o they_o can_v endure_v and_o as_o slave_n do_v
of_o will_n that_o be_v in_o they_o and_o doubtless_o in_o those_o good_a action_n that_o have_v love_n for_o their_o principle_n there_o be_v much_o more_o of_o will_n than_o in_o those_o that_o proceed_v from_o fear_n and_o terror_n and_o consequent_o our_o nature_n be_v perfect_v by_o good_a action_n and_o more_o or_o less_o perfect_v by_o they_o the_o more_o or_o less_o of_o goodness_n they_o have_v in_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v much_o more_o perfect_v by_o the_o good_a action_n of_o love_n than_o by_o those_o of_o fear_n whilst_o therefore_o we_o be_v act_v in_o religion_n by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n our_o soul_n be_v upon_o the_o wing_n to_o perfection_n and_o in_o a_o swift_a tendency_n to_o the_o heavenly_a state_n we_o be_v already_o in_o the_o neighbourhood_n of_o glorify_a saint_n and_o angel_n and_o if_o we_o continue_v our_o course_n shall_v soon_o be_v fit_a for_o their_o society_n and_o converse_n this_o therefore_o be_v the_o great_a end_n and_o reason_n why_o god_n do_v so_o importunate_o claim_v our_o love_n because_o this_o of_o all_o other_o be_v the_o most_o perfective_a principle_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o consequent_o the_o most_o conducive_a to_o our_o happiness_n 4_o lie_n and_o last_o from_o hence_o i_o infer_v of_o what_o vast_a importance_n it_o be_v to_o we_o in_o religion_n to_o love_v god_n for_o you_o plain_o see_v that_o love_n be_v not_o only_o a_o principle_n of_o obedience_n but_o that_o of_o all_o other_o it_o be_v the_o most_o efficacious_a and_o operative_a that_o it_o do_v not_o only_o engage_v we_o to_o keep_v god_n commandment_n but_o that_o it_o enable_v we_o to_o keep_v they_o most_o universal_o and_o vigorous_o and_o cheerful_o and_o constant_o so_o that_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v of_o brotherly_a love_n be_v more_o universal_o true_a of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o it_o be_v the_o keep_n of_o the_o whole_a law_n rom._n xiii_o 10_o that_o be_v causal_o and_o virtual_o it_o be_v for_o so_o love_n be_v that_o universal_a cause_n which_o within_o its_o fruitful_a womb_n contain_v all_o the_o particular_n of_o our_o obedience_n and_o be_v natural_o productive_a of_o they_o all_o so_o that_o virtual_o it_o be_v all_o religion_n it_o be_v godliness_n and_o temperance_n and_o charity_n and_o humility_n and_o righteousness_n and_o patience_n be_v the_o common_a cause_n and_o parent_n of_o they_o all_o for_o love_n have_v a_o universal_a respect_n to_o the_o will_n of_o the_o belove_a it_o do_v not_o choose_v what_o be_v easy_a and_o refuse_v what_o be_v hard_a but_o like_v what_o god_n like_v and_o disapprove_v of_o what_o he_o hate_v his_o will_n be_v the_o great_a reason_n of_o all_o its_o choice_n and_o refusal_n and_o whatsoever_o thing_n in_o particular_a be_v distasteful_a and_o difficult_a to_o we_o by_o its_o powerful_a oratory_n it_o render_v pleasant_a and_o easy_a for_o he_o that_o serve_v god_n out_o of_o love_n serve_v he_o with_o delight_n and_o he_o that_o serve_v he_o with_o delight_n have_v no_o clog_n to_o encumber_v he_o none_o of_o those_o aversation_n and_o antipathy_n to_o his_o service_n that_o do_v so_o load_v and_o depress_v unwilling_a mind_n he_o do_v not_o row_n against_o the_o current_n of_o nature_n but_o act_n with_o the_o full_a inclination_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o so_o feel_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o drudgery_n in_o his_o religion_n and_o be_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o full_a tide_n of_o delight_n he_o go_v easy_o and_o cheerful_o down_o with_o the_o stream_n of_o such_o vast_a importance_n be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o our_o religion_n that_o it_o not_o only_o produce_v it_o but_o render_v it_o easy_a and_o pleasant_a so_o that_o without_o some_o degree_n of_o this_o our_o religion_n can_v have_v neither_o be_v nor_o wellbeing_a and_o it_o be_v as_o possible_a for_o we_o to_o live_v without_o a_o soul_n and_o to_o be_v nourish_v without_o food_n as_o it_o be_v for_o our_o religion_n to_o be_v and_o to_o thrive_v without_o the_o love_n of_o god_n wherefore_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v be_v religious_a indeed_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v connaturalize_v religion_n to_o our_o soul_n so_o as_o to_o render_v it_o easy_a and_o delightsome_a to_o we_o let_v we_o endeavour_v to_o kindle_v this_o heavenly_a fire_n within_o we_o and_o certain_o if_o we_o hearty_o endeavour_v it_o we_o can_v fa●●_n of_o success_n for_o there_o be_v so_o many_o mighty_a reason_n to_o engage_v we_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n so_o many_o invincible_a attraction_n in_o his_o nature_n and_o in_o his_o love_n towards_o we_o as_o can_v but_o affect_v we_o if_o we_o serious_o ponder_v and_o consider_v they_o for_o how_o can_v i_o reflect_v upon_o that_o amiable_a nature_n of_o he_o in_o which_o there_o be_v a_o harmonious_a concurrence_n of_o all_o beauty_n and_o perfection_n where_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n justice_n and_o mercy_n and_o every_o lovely_a thing_n that_o can_v claim_v or_o deserve_v a_o rational_a affection_n be_v contemper_v together_o in_o their_o utmost_a degree_n of_o perfection_n how_o i_o say_v can_v i_o steady_o reflect_v upon_o such_o a_o nature_n as_o this_o without_o be_v charm_v and_o captivate_v with_o the_o love_n of_o it_o how_o can_v i_o think_v of_o that_o stupendous_a love_n which_o he_o have_v express_v towards_o i_o in_o give_v i_o my_o be_v and_o all_o the_o blessing_n i_o enjoy_v in_o prepare_v a_o heaven_n of_o immortal_a joy_n for_o i_o and_o send_v his_o son_n from_o thence_o to_o conduct_v i_o thither_o without_o be_v all_o inflame_a with_o love_n to_o he_o wherefore_o let_v we_o serious_o set_v ourselves_o to_o the_o contemplation_n of_o god_n of_o the_o loveliness_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o of_o his_o infinite_a kindness_n to_o we_o and_o all_o his_o creation_n let_v we_o repeat_v the_o thought_n of_o these_o thing_n upon_o our_o mind_n and_o never_o give_v over_o press_v ourselves_o with_o those_o infinite_a reason_n we_o have_v to_o love_v he_o till_o we_o feel_v the_o heavenly_a fire_n begin_v to_o kindle_v within_o our_o breast_n and_o then_o let_v we_o never_o give_v over_o feed_v and_o blow_v it_o with_o these_o divine_a consideration_n till_o it_o rise_v up_o into_o a_o triumphant_a flame_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v feel_v ourselves_o animate_v with_o a_o new_a soul_n and_o inspire_v with_o so_o much_o life_n and_o activity_n in_o religion_n as_o that_o from_o our_o experience_n we_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o subscribe_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o text_n this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n this_o the_o most_o natural_a expression_n and_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o it_o that_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n 1_o john_n v._n 3_o and_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a i_o proceed_v now_o to_o the_o next_o part_n of_o the_o text_n viz._n the_o motive_n by_o which_o this_o obedient_a love_n of_o god_n be_v enforce_v and_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o be_v not_o heavy_a or_o burdensome_a they_o have_v no_o such_o weight_n or_o difficulty_n in_o they_o as_o aught_o in_o reason_n to_o discourage_v we_o from_o keep_v they_o for_o in_o these_o word_n the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o anticipate_v a_o objection_n alas_o if_o this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o keep_v his_o commandment_n what_o man_n be_v able_a to_o love_v he_o for_o if_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o absolute_o impossible_a yet_o be_v they_o at_o least_o so_o extreme_o difficult_a that_o scarce_o any_o man_n can_v have_v the_o courage_n to_o undertake_v the_o performance_n of_o they_o this_o say_v our_o apostle_n be_v a_o mighty_a mistake_n or_o a_o wretched_a pretence_n for_o man_n sloth_n and_o idleness_n for_o very_o and_o true_o the_o command_n of_o god_n have_v no_o such_o difficulty_n in_o they_o but_o be_v in_o themselves_o very_o gentle_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v bear_v and_o with_o this_o assertion_n our_o bless_a saviour_n do_v most_o perfect_o accord_v mat._n xi_o 30_o my_o yoke_n be_v easy_a and_o my_o burden_n be_v light_a and_o the_o prophet_n david_n make_v it_o not_o only_o easy_a but_o delightful_a psal._n nineteeen_o 8_o the_o statute_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v right_a rejoice_v the_o heart_n the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v pure_a enlighten_v the_o eye_n and_o then_o in_o the_o 10_o the_o verse_n he_o tell_v we_o that_o they_o be_v more_o to_o be_v desire_v than_o gold_n yea_o than_o much_o fine_a gold_n and_o sweet_a than_o honey_n or_o the_o honeycomb_n so_o far_o they_o be_v from_o be_v toil_n and_o burden_n that_o in_o reality_n they_o be_v pleasure_n and_o recreation_n but_o far_a to_o demonstrate_v this_o truth_n to_o you_o that_o god_n command_n be_v not_o burdensome_a and_o difficult_a i_o shall_v do_v these_o two_o thing_n i._o show_v you_o that_o they_o be_v facile_a
father_n to_o jesus_n my_o redeemer_n and_o to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n my_o constant_a comforter_n and_o assistant_n and_o what_o though_o the_o state_n and_o the_o law_n and_o custom_n of_o it_o be_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n unknown_a to_o i_o yet_o what_o i_o know_v be_v infinite_o desirable_a from_o whence_o i_o may_v reasonable_o infer_v that_o what_o i_o know_v not_o be_v so_o too_o and_o if_o i_o have_v but_o the_o temper_n of_o heaven_n i_o be_o sure_a i_o shall_v easy_o comply_v with_o the_o heavenly_a law_n and_o custom_n of_o it_o so_o that_o in_o the_o whole_a i_o cannont_v imagine_v why_o any_o good_a man_n that_o serious_o believe_v the_o doctrine_n of_o a_o bless_a immortality_n and_o have_v a_o just_a wellgrounded_n hope_v of_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o it_o at_o the_o expiration_n of_o this_o mortal_a life_n shall_v be_v so_o loath_a to_o leave_v this_o wretched_a world_n and_o expire_v into_o that_o bless_a eternity_n i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o the_o circumstance_n of_o our_o affair_n in_o this_o life_n be_v many_o time_n such_o as_o may_v just_o excuse_v even_o a_o good_a man_n willingness_n to_o die_v some_o great_a opportunity_n of_o do_v good_a may_v present_v themselves_o and_o invite_v he_o to_o stay_v a_o little_a long_o or_o his_o have_v begin_v his_o repentance_n late_o or_o not_o have_v make_v a_o competent_a provision_n for_o his_o family_n may_v for_o a_o time_n justify_v his_o unwillingness_n to_o depart_v and_o render_v it_o both_o excusable_a and_o reasonable_a but_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o these_o except_a case_n methinks_v i_o can_v hardly_o reconcile_v our_o hope_n of_o happiness_n with_o our_o fear_n of_o death_n for_o when_o i_o be_o very_o persuade_v that_o death_n be_v only_o a_o narrow_a stream_n run_v between_o time_n and_o eternity_n and_o i_o see_v my_o god_n and_o my_o saviour_n with_o crown_n of_o glory_n in_o their_o hand_n beckon_v to_o i_o from_o the_o far_a shoar_n and_o call_v to_o i_o to_o come_v over_o and_o receive_v those_o happy_a recompense_n of_o my_o industry_n and_o labour_n that_o i_o like_v a_o naked_a timorous_a boy_n shall_v stand_v shiver_v on_o this_o bank_n of_o time_n as_o if_o i_o be_v afraid_a to_o dip_v my_o foot_n in_o that_o cold_a stream_n of_o fate_n which_o as_o soon_o as_o i_o be_o in_o i_o be_o past_a and_o in_o the_o twinkle_v of_o a_o eye_n will_v land_v i_o on_o eternal_a bliss_n be_v such_o a_o extravagant_a inconsistency_n as_o if_o i_o do_v not_o feel_v it_o in_o i_o i_o shall_v never_o believe_v i_o can_v be_v guilty_a of_o 4_o thly_a and_o last_o hence_o i_o infer_v what_o a_o vast_a deal_n of_o reason_n we_o have_v to_o be_v diligent_a and_o industrious_a in_o religion_n since_o god_n have_v propose_v such_o a_o vast_a reward_n to_o we_o to_o encourage_v and_o animate_v our_o industry_n how_o can_v we_o account_v any_o work_n hard_a of_o which_o heaven_n be_v the_o wage_n how_o can_v we_o faint_v in_o our_o christian_a race_n when_o we_o see_v the_o crown_n of_o glory_n hang_v over_o the_o goal_n methinks_v this_o shall_v be_v enough_o to_o infuse_v life_n and_o spirit_n into_o the_o most_o crest-fallen_a soul_n to_o make_v cripple_n run_v and_o to_o convert_v the_o most_o sneak_a coward_n into_o a_o bold_a and_o magnanimous_a hero_n for_o how_o much_o pain_n do_v we_o ordinary_o take_v upon_o far_o less_o hope_n in_o hope_v of_o a_o little_a transitory_a wealth_n which_o we_o know_v we_o shall_v enjoy_v but_o a_o few_o year_n and_o then_o part_v with_o for_o ever_o we_o thrust_v ourselves_o into_o a_o perpetual_a crowd_n and_o tumult_n of_o business_n where_o with_o vast_a concern_v and_o thoughtfulness_n with_o eager_a and_o passionate_a prosecution_n with_o endless_a brawl_n and_o contention_n with_o jostle_v and_o rencountr_v one_o another_o we_o toil_v and_o weary_v ourselves_o and_o make_v our_o life_n a_o constant_a drudgery_n and_o shall_v we_o flag_n when_o heaven_n be_v the_o object_n of_o our_o prosecution_n who_o be_v so_o active_a in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o trifle_n whensoever_o therefore_o we_o find_v our_o endeavour_n in_o religion_n begin_v to_o jade_n and_o droop_v let_v we_o lift_v up_o our_o eye_n to_o the_o crown_n of_o glory_n and_o if_o we_o be_v capable_a of_o be_v move_v by_o object_n of_o the_o great_a value_n that_o must_v infuse_v new_a vigour_n into_o we_o and_o make_v we_o all_o life_n and_o spirit_n and_o wing_n for_o what_o though_o my_o way_n lie_v up_o the_o hill_n and_o lead_v i_o along_o through_o thorn_n and_o precipice_n so_o that_o i_o be_o fain_a to_o sweat_v at_o every_o step_n and_o every_o ascent_n be_v a_o toil_n to_o i_o yet_o when_o i_o be_o up_o i_o be_o sure_a to_o be_v entertain_v with_o such_o pleasant_a gale_n and_o glorious_a prospect_n as_o will_v full_o recompense_v all_o my_o toil_n in_o climb_v thither_o there_o with_o a_o overjoy_v heart_n i_o shall_v sit_v down_o and_o bless_v my_o labour_n bless_a be_v you_o my_o bitter_a agony_n and_o sharp_a conflict_n my_o importunate_a prayer_n and_o well-spent_a tear_n for_o now_o i_o be_o full_o repay_v for_o you_o all_o and_o do_v reap_v ten_o thousand_o time_n more_o joy_n from_o you_o than_o ever_o i_o endure_v pain_n for_o what_o be_v the_o pain_n of_o a_o moment_n to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o a_o eternity_n wherefore_o hold_v out_o my_o faith_n and_o patience_n yet_o a_o little_a long_o and_o your_o work_n will_v soon_o be_v at_o a_o end_n and_o after_o a_o few_o laborious_a weekday_n you_o shall_v keep_v a_o everlasting_a sabbath_n what_o though_o my_o voyage_n lie_v through_o a_o stormy_a sea_n yet_o it_o be_v to_o the_o indies_n of_o happiness_n and_o a_o few_o league_n far_a lie_v the_o bless_a port_n where_o i_o shall_v be_v crown_v as_o soon_o as_o i_o be_o land_v go_v on_o therefore_o o_o my_o soul_n with_o thy_o utmost_a courage_n and_o alacrity_n for_o let_v the_o wind_n bluster_v and_o the_o wave_n swell_v never_o so_o much_o yet_o thou_o can_v not_o miscarry_v unless_o thou_o will_v thou_o be_v not_o like_o other_o passenger_n leave_v to_o the_o mercy_n of_o wind_n and_o wether_n but_o thy_o fate_n be_v in_o thy_o own_o hand_n and_o if_o thou_o will_v but_o have_v thy_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n thy_o end_n shall_v be_v everlasting_a life_n 1_o epist._n john_n iu._n 19_o we_o love_v he_o because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o i_o have_v show_v you_o in_o the_o former_a discourse_n how_o indispensable_o necessary_a it_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v love_v god_n in_o order_n to_o our_o be_v true_o religious_a and_o prove_v to_o you_o at_o large_a that_o of_o all_o principle_n of_o religion_n whatsoever_o this_o be_v the_o most_o operative_a and_o effectual_a and_o then_o to_o excite_v this_o heavenly_a affection_n in_o you_o i_o have_v show_v you_o that_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n be_v the_o principal_a motive_n that_o engage_v our_o love_n to_o he_o and_o now_o that_o i_o may_v more_o large_o explain_v the_o nature_n and_o measure_n of_o this_o love_n as_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n and_o engage_v you_o to_o it_o by_o this_o grand_a motive_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n i_o have_v make_v choice_n of_o this_o text_n we_o love_v he_o because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o the_o greek_a word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d here_o may_v as_o well_o be_v render_v subjunctive_o to_o signify_v what_o we_o ought_v to_o do_v as_o indicative_o for_o what_o we_o already_o do_v and_o indeed_o it_o seem_v more_o suitable_a to_o the_o context_n to_o render_v it_o we_o shall_v or_o aught_o to_o love_v he_o than_o we_o love_v he_o for_o in_o the_o former_a verse_n the_o apostle_n earnest_o press_v christian_n to_o love_v one_o another_o upon_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n great_a love_n to_o they_o and_o then_o consider_v how_o natural_o their_o love_n to_o one_o another_o will_v follow_v upon_o their_o mutual_a love_n to_o god_n he_o conclude_v that_o the_o most_o effectual_a course_n to_o oblige_v they_o to_o love_v one_o another_o be_v to_o excite_v they_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o great_a love_n to_o they_o for_o say_v he_o vers._n 20._o if_o a_o man_n say_v i_o love_v god_n and_o hate_v his_o brother_n he_o be_v a_o liar_n because_o light_v itself_o be_v not_o more_o inseparable_a to_o the_o sun_n than_o brotherly-love_n be_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n so_o that_o unless_o we_o render_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d we_o shall_v love_v he_o as_o we_o shall_v evacuate_v the_o necessity_n of_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n so_o we_o shall_v disturb_v the_o order_n and_o method_n of_o his_o argument_n for_o if_o we_o render_v it_o indicative_o we_o love_v he_o it_o will_v thence_o necessary_o follow_v that_o we_o shall_v also_o
love_v one_o another_o and_o so_o there_o will_v be_v no_o need_n of_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n and_o then_o the_o word_n will_v be_v whole_o impertinent_a to_o the_o argument_n which_o as_o i_o have_v show_v be_v to_o excite_v we_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o thereby_o to_o engage_v we_o to_o love_v one_o another_o but_o what_o need_v he_o excite_v we_o to_o do_v that_o which_o he_o himself_o confess_v we_o do_v already_o if_o therefore_o we_o render_v the_o word_n subjunctive_o as_o it_o seem_v most_o reasonable_a we_o shall_v this_o will_v be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o text_n we_o be_v bind_v in_o duty_n to_o love_n god_n because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o according_a to_o which_o sense_n here_o be_v first_o a_o duty_n we_o ought_v to_o love_v god_n second_o a_o reason_n of_o it_o because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o i._o i_o begin_v with_o the_o duty_n we_o ought_v to_o love_v he_o in_o handle_v of_o which_o i_o shall_v do_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o show_v you_o what_o it_o be_v to_o love_v god_n 2._o in_o what_o degree_n and_o measure_n we_o be_v bind_v to_o love_v he_o and_o in_o explain_v what_o this_o love_n of_o god_n be_v i_o shall_v show_v you_o first_o wherein_o the_o be_v and_o essence_n of_o it_o consist_v second_o what_o be_v its_o essential_a chararacter_n and_o property_n 1._o wherein_o the_o be_v and_o essence_n of_o our_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v to_o which_o i_o answer_v in_o general_a that_o this_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v in_o a_o rational_a fix_v affect_v delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o the_o divine_a goodness_n and_o perfection_n but_o that_o we_o may_v the_o better_o understand_v the_o nature_n of_o this_o heavenly_a virtue_n and_o more_o exact_o distinguish_v it_o from_o those_o wretched_a counterfeit_n that_o common_o usurp_v its_o name_n and_o be_v too_o to_o often_o mistake_v for_o it_o it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o explain_v the_o several_a term_n whereof_o its_o definition_n be_v compose_v 1._o therefore_o i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o delight_n and_o complacency_n 2._o it_o be_v a_o rational_a one_o 3._o a_o fix_v 4._o a_o affect_v one_o 5._o it_o be_v terminate_v on_o the_o divine_a goodness_n and_o perfection_n 1._o the_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v in_o delight_n and_o complacency_n and_o indeed_o this_o be_v the_o proper_a act_n of_o love_n as_o it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o all_o other_o passion_n for_o we_o find_v by_o experience_n that_o the_o first_o act_n of_o our_o mind_n upon_o the_o apprehension_n of_o a_o lovely_a object_n be_v delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o the_o view_n or_o contemplation_n of_o it_o and_o when_o any_o amiable_a object_n present_v itself_o to_o our_o sense_n or_o to_o our_o mind_n or_o fancy_n it_o cause_v our_o thought_n to_o pause_v and_o stay_v themselves_o a_o while_n upon_o it_o till_o we_o have_v view_v it_o round_o about_o and_o draw_v its_o picture_n in_o our_o mind_n and_o when_o we_o have_v do_v the_o very_a first_o expression_n of_o our_o love_n to_o it_o be_v to_o be_v well_o please_v with_o the_o contemplation_n of_o it_o and_o while_o we_o review_v it_o over_o and_o over_o to_o be_v sweet_o ravish_v and_o delight_v with_o the_o charm_a prospect_n of_o its_o beauty_n and_o from_o this_o prime_a and_o essential_a act_n of_o love_n arise_v all_o those_o consequent_a affection_n of_o hope_n benevolence_n and_o desire_v of_o fruition_n for_o the_o reason_n why_o we_o wish_v well_o to_o hope_v for_o or_o desire_v to_o enjoy_v any_o object_n be_v because_o we_o be_v well-pleased_a with_o it_o and_o do_v find_v a_o sweet_a content_a and_o satisfaction_n in_o that_o picture_n or_o idea_n of_o it_o which_o we_o have_v draw_v upon_o our_o own_o mind_n so_o that_o the_o very_a essence_n of_o love_n you_o see_v consist_v in_o a_o wellpleasedness_a arise_v from_o the_o apprehend_a goodness_n and_o congruity_n of_o the_o thing_n belove_v and_o it_o be_v mere_o by_o accident_n that_o there_o be_v any_o other_o emotion_n intermingle_v with_o this_o grateful_a affection_n for_o if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o the_o want_n of_o what_o we_o love_v if_o there_o be_v no_o distance_n between_o we_o and_o the_o object_n of_o our_o affection_n our_o love_n will_v be_v all_o but_o one_o pure_a continue_a act_n of_o complacency_n and_o delight_n for_o if_o all_o our_o needs_o be_v full_o satisfy_v we_o shall_v love_v without_o either_o desire_n or_o hope_n both_o which_o imply_v want_n and_o absence_n from_o the_o object_n of_o our_o love_n which_o be_v a_o plain_a evidence_n that_o complacency_n be_v the_o very_a essence_n of_o love_n since_o there_o may_v be_v love_n without_o hope_n or_o desire_v or_o any_o other_o passion_n mingle_v with_o it_o but_o without_o complacency_n there_o can_v be_v none_o it_o be_v true_a the_o degree_n of_o love_n complacency_n be_v much_o great_a in_o the_o fruition_n of_o its_o object_n than_o they_o be_v in_o the_o pursuit_n of_o they_o but_o still_o it_o be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_a for_o it_o be_v the_o delight_n we_o take_v in_o a_o object_n that_o make_v we_o desire_n to_o enjoy_v it_o but_o in_o the_o enjoyment_n our_o desire_n expire_v into_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n for_o desire_v and_o delight_n be_v only_o the_o wing_n and_o arm_n of_o love_n those_o for_o pursuit_n and_o these_o for_o embrace_n but_o it_o be_v the_o arm_n that_o give_v the_o wing_n both_o motion_n and_o rest_n the_o delight_n we_o take_v in_o the_o object_n of_o our_o love_n that_o both_o inflame_v and_o quench_v our_o desire_n so_o that_o though_o in_o this_o indigent_a state_n hope_n and_o desire_n be_v inseparable_a to_o our_o love_n yet_o that_o be_v by_o accident_n but_o as_o for_o its_o essence_n and_o definition_n it_o whole_o consist_v of_o delight_n and_o complacency_n and_o therefore_o if_o our_o love_n of_o god_n have_v the_o common_a notion_n of_o love_n in_o it_o as_o questionless_a it_o have_v it_o must_v necessary_o consist_v in_o our_o be_v well-pleased_a and_o delight_v in_o the_o beauty_n and_o goodness_n and_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o according_o we_o find_v in_o scripture_n that_o our_o love_n to_o god_n and_o god_n love_n to_o we_o be_v express_v by_o delight_v in_o one_o another_o so_o prov._n iii._o 12_o for_o who_o the_o lord_n love_v he_o correct_v even_o as_o a_o father_n the_o son_n in_o who_o he_o delight_v i._n e._n who_o he_o love_v so_o also_o our_o love_n to_o god_n be_v express_v by_o delight_v in_o he_o psal._n xxxvii_o 4_o delight_n thyself_o also_o in_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o shall_v give_v thou_o the_o desire_n of_o thy_o heart_n 2_o lie_n the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v a_o rational_a delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o he_o by_o which_o it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o those_o sensible_a emotion_n of_o bodily_a passion_n which_o many_o time_n be_v nothing_o else_o put_v the_o natural_a effect_n of_o a_o overheat_v fancy_n for_o i_o make_v no_o doubt_n but_o a_o man_n may_v be_v wrap_v even_o into_o a_o ecstasy_n of_o sensible_a delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o god_n that_o be_v upon_o a_o amiable_a representation_n of_o god_n his_o spirit_n may_v be_v make_v to_o flow_v in_o a_o sweet_a and_o placid_a torrent_n to_o his_o heart_n and_o by_o their_o nimble_a motion_n about_o it_o to_o sooth_n and_o tickle_v it_o into_o a_o most_o sensible_a pleasure_n till_o it_o open_v and_o dilate_v its_o orifice_n and_o the_o grateful_a flood_n break_v in_o and_o drown_v it_o in_o delight_n and_o ravishment_n and_o yet_o in_o all_o this_o mighty_a storm_n and_o commotion_n of_o passion_n there_o may_v not_o be_v the_o least_o spark_n of_o sincere_a love_n to_o god_n for_o all_o this_o not_o only_o may_v be_v but_o many_o time_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o mere_a mechanism_n and_o natural_a effect_n of_o a_o warm_a and_o vigorous_a fancy_n which_o be_v flush_v with_o such_o brisk_a and_o active_a spirit_n as_o be_v most_o apt_a to_o be_v figure_v into_o amorous_a phantasm_n and_o idea_n can_v with_o these_o without_o any_o assistance_n from_o reason_n raise_v great_a commotion_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o heart_n especial_o where_o the_o temper_n be_v soft_a and_o the_o passion_n easy_a to_o be_v wrought_v upon_o and_o of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o the_o history_n of_o the_o devotos_fw-la of_o all_o religion_n will_v furnish_v we_o with_o sufficient_a experiment_n for_o even_o among_o the_o turkish_a and_o heathen_a saint_n there_o be_v as_o notorious_a instance_n of_o these_o sweet_a income_n and_o manifestation_n as_o among_o our_o own_o and_o the_o same_o sensitive_a complacency_n which_o we_o too_o often_o mistake_v for_o the_o sealing_n and_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n they_o frequent_o experience_n in_o their_o communion_n with_o mahomet_n bacchus_n and_o
thly_a it_o be_v a_o affect_a delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o god_n by_o which_o i_o distinguish_v it_o from_o a_o mere_a like_n and_o naked_a approbation_n for_o god_n be_v a_o be_v so_o infinite_o amiable_a and_o benevolent_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a almost_o for_o any_o reasonable_a creature_n to_o know_v he_o and_o not_o like_a and_o approve_v of_o he_o but_o though_o in_o all_o approbation_n there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o complacency_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o a_o man_n may_v approve_v of_o what_o he_o do_v not_o love_n and_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o there_o be_v many_o man_n that_o do_v approve_v of_o god_n as_o the_o most_o glorious_a and_o excellent_a of_o being_n and_o the_o most_o worthy_a of_o love_n and_o veneration_n who_o yet_o have_v not_o one_o spark_n of_o real_a love_n towards_o he_o for_o thus_o st._n paul_n we_o find_v when_o he_o be_v a_o jew_n in_o religion_n approve_v of_o the_o law_n as_o holy_a and_o just_a and_o good_a rom._n seven_o 12_o and_o that_o in_o this_o approbation_n of_o his_o there_o be_v some_o degree_n of_o complacency_n and_o delight_n for_o say_v he_o i_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o inward_a man_n vers._n 22._o but_o all_o this_o while_n he_o be_v very_o far_o from_o have_v any_o real_a love_n and_o affection_n for_o it_o for_o in_o the_o next_o verse_n he_o tell_v we_o that_o he_o have_v a_o law_n in_o his_o member_n war_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n that_o be_v he_o have_v a_o inward_a repugnancy_n and_o aversation_n against_o this_o excellent_a law_n which_o his_o reason_n do_v approve_v of_o as_o holy_a and_o just_a and_o good_a and_o no_o degree_n of_o true_a love_n can_v consist_v with_o such_o a_o aversation_n and_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o most_o man_n who_o have_v right_a conception_n of_o god_n do_v in_o their_o mind_n and_o reason_n as_o much_o approve_v of_o and_o delight_n in_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n as_o st._n paul_n do_v in_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o law_n and_o yet_o their_o will_n be_v as_o repugnant_a and_o averse_a to_o the_o holiness_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o one_o as_o st._n paul_n then_o be_v to_o the_o justice_n and_o goodness_n of_o the_o other_o wherefore_o to_o constitute_v we_o true_a lover_n of_o god_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o our_o approbation_n of_o and_o delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o he_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o do_v powerful_o affect_v our_o will_n and_o reconcile_v they_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n for_o whilst_o our_o will_n be_v averse_a to_o that_o immaculate_a purity_n and_o goodness_n which_o be_v so_o inseparable_a to_o his_o nature_n it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v hearty_o love_v he_o and_o though_o in_o our_o mind_n we_o may_v approve_v of_o he_o as_o a_o most_o glorious_a and_o excellent_a be_v yet_o in_o our_o heart_n we_o shall_v still_o retain_v a_o secret_a antipathy_n against_o he_o and_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o the_o devil_n themselves_o do_v so_o far_o approve_v of_o god_n as_o to_o acknowledge_v he_o altogether_o amiable_a and_o lovely_a for_o if_o they_o do_v not_o i_o be_o sure_a they_o be_v very_o shallow_a spectator_n but_o yet_o we_o see_v this_o approbation_n of_o they_o accompany_v with_o a_o inveterate_a rancour_n and_o enmity_n against_o he_o and_o till_o our_o will_n be_v so_o affect_v by_o our_o reason_n as_o to_o consent_v and_o echo_v to_o its_o approbation_n to_o take_v complacency_n in_o that_o divine_a purity_n which_o our_o reason_n acknowledge_v to_o be_v the_o crown_n and_o ornament_n of_o god_n whilst_o we_o reverence_v he_o in_o our_o mind_n we_o hate_v and_o despise_v he_o in_o our_o affection_n so_o that_o he_o only_o be_v a_o lover_n of_o god_n who_o will_n be_v reconcile_v to_o true_a goodness_n 5_o thly_a and_o last_o this_o love_n must_v be_v terminate_v on_o the_o proper_a goodness_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n and_o hereby_o i_o distinguish_v it_o from_o that_o love_n which_o we_o too_o common_o terminate_v upon_o a_o god_n of_o our_o own_o make_n for_o it_o be_v very_o ordinary_a with_o man_n to_o set_v up_o idol_n and_o false_a representation_n of_o god_n in_o their_o mind_n and_o then_o fall_v down_o and_o worship_v they_o and_o it_o be_v no_o great_a wonder_n if_o they_o be_v extreme_o fond_a of_o these_o idol-divinity_n of_o their_o own_o make_n since_o common_o they_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o picture_n and_o image_n of_o themselves_o thou_o think_v say_v god_n to_o those_o profligate_v person_n that_o i_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o thyself_o psal._n l._n 21_o man_n have_v always_o be_v prone_a to_o cast_v all_o their_o idea_n of_o god_n in_o the_o mould_n of_o their_o own_o temper_n and_o to_o fashion_v the_o divinity_n who_o they_o worship_n according_a to_o the_o model_n of_o their_o own_o inclination_n thus_o man_n of_o ungovernable_a and_o imperious_a temper_n be_v apt_a to_o represent_v god_n in_o their_o own_o likeness_n a_o be_v that_o govern_v himself_o and_o other_o by_o a_o mere_a blind_a omnipotent_a selfwill_a that_o will_v thing_n mere_o because_o he_o will_v they_o and_o be_v no_o way_n concern_v to_o regulate_v his_o own_o motion_n by_o any_o antecedent_n rule_v of_o justice_n wisdom_n or_o goodness_n so_o also_o man_n of_o wrathful_a and_o revengeful_a temper_n be_v apt_a to_o look_v upon_o god_n as_o a_o froward_a furious_a and_o implacable_a be_v that_o be_v to_o be_v please_v or_o displease_v with_o trifle_n that_o frown_n or_o smile_n as_o the_o humour_n take_v he_o that_o when_o the_o froward_a fit_a be_v upon_o he_o breathe_v nothing_o but_o revenge_n and_o fury_n and_o who_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v fickle_a and_o mutable_a and_o never_o constant_a to_o the_o same_o reason_n and_o to_o name_v no_o more_o thus_o man_n of_o fond_a and_o indulgent_a nature_n be_v apt_a to_o represent_v god_n to_o themselves_o as_o one_o that_o dote_v invincible_o on_o those_o who_o have_v once_o the_o luck_n to_o be_v his_o favourite_n and_o in_o christ_n at_o least_o will_v hug_v their_o very_a deformity_n and_o connive_v at_o their_o great_a treason_n and_o rebellion_n and_o since_o these_o false_a representation_n that_o man_n make_v of_o god_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o reflection_n of_o their_o own_o image_n in_o love_v he_o they_o only_o love_v themselves_o and_o it_o be_v no_o wonder_n that_o they_o be_v more_o devout_o affect_v towards_o such_o a_o imaginary_a divinity_n than_o towards_o the_o true_a god_n himself_o clothe_v with_o his_o own_o attribute_n and_o circle_v about_o with_o his_o own_o ray_n of_o unstained_a and_o immaculate_a glory_n since_o the_o former_a be_v nothing_o but_o their_o own_o shadow_n which_o narcissus-like_o they_o gaze_v upon_o and_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o but_o whatsoever_o love_n we_o may_v bestow_v upon_o these_o false_a representation_n it_o be_v not_o terminate_v upon_o god_n but_o on_o the_o spectres_n and_o image_n of_o our_o fancy_n which_o have_v nothing_o of_o god_n about_o they_o but_o the_o name_n wherefore_o to_o constitute_v our_o love_n true_o divine_a it_o be_v necessary_a that_o it_o shall_v respect_v god_n as_o he_o be_v in_o himself_o and_o not_o as_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v in_o these_o disfigure_a idol_n of_o our_o own_o fancy_n we_o must_v blot_v out_o of_o our_o mind_n all_o these_o false_a conception_n which_o like_o the_o aethiopian_a idol_n be_v nothing_o but_o our_o own_o resemblance_n and_o portray_v he_o in_o all_o those_o fair_a idea_n wherein_o he_o have_v represent_v himself_o unto_o we_o and_o when_o we_o have_v right_v he_o in_o our_o own_o opinion_n and_o form_v such_o notion_n of_o he_o as_o be_v agreeable_a to_o his_o native_a perfection_n than_o we_o must_v love_v he_o for_o what_o we_o see_v in_o he_o even_o for_o the_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n the_o righteousness_n and_o purity_n of_o his_o nature_n for_o unless_o we_o love_v these_o his_o moral_a perfection_n which_o be_v indeed_o the_o only_a object_n of_o love_n in_o he_o all_o our_o kind_a pretence_n be_v base_a flattery_n and_o in_o stead_n of_o he_o we_o only_o love_v a_o mock-god_n of_o our_o own_o make_n and_o thus_o i_o have_v show_v you_o at_o large_a wherein_o the_o essence_n of_o this_o heavenly_a virtue_n our_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v but_o because_o thing_n be_v better_o understand_v by_o their_o essential_a character_n and_o property_n than_o by_o their_o naked_a essence_n and_o we_o may_v much_o more_o easy_o discern_v whether_o we_o true_o love_v god_n or_o no_o by_o the_o former_a than_o by_o the_o latter_a 2._o i_o proceed_v in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o show_v you_o what_o be_v the_o essential_a property_n and_o character_n of_o our_o love_n of_o god_n and_o these_o be_v to_o be_v fetch_v from_o
exercise_n of_o they_o according_a as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n and_o do_v no_o far_o forbid_v the_o deficiency_n and_o non-improvement_n of_o they_o than_o as_o it_o be_v gross_a and_o continue_a and_o inconsistent_a with_o sincerity_n now_o the_o reality_n of_o these_o christian_a virtue_n in_o we_o consist_v in_o the_o universal_a and_o prevalent_a consent_n of_o our_o will_n to_o they_o to_o practice_v they_o as_o often_o as_o occasion_n require_v and_o not_o wilful_o to_o commit_v any_o contrary_a sin_n upon_o any_o occasion_n whatsoever_o and_o so_o long_o as_o this_o consent_n continue_v and_o prevail_v in_o our_o practice_n we_o be_v just_a in_o the_o eye_n and_o judgement_n of_o the_o law_n whatsoever_o weakness_n and_o defect_n surprise_v and_o inadvertency_n we_o may_v otherwise_o be_v guilty_a of_o for_o he_o who_o have_v so_o submit_v his_o will_n to_o god_n as_o to_o consent_v effectual_o without_o any_o reserve_v to_o obey_v he_o be_v evident_o cordial_a and_o sincere_a though_o perhaps_o he_o may_v be_v weak_a and_o imperfect_a for_o as_o he_o be_v sincere_o chaste_a who_o will_n do_v prevalent_o consent_v to_o the_o law_n of_o chastity_n so_o he_o be_v universal_o a_o virtuous_a man_n who_o will_n do_v prevalent_o consent_v to_o the_o universal_a law_n of_o virtue_n because_o that_o very_a consent_n of_o he_o include_v the_o be_v and_o reality_n of_o all_o virtue_n though_o not_o the_o utmost_a degree_n and_o improvement_n of_o they_o this_o therefore_o be_v the_o utmost_a that_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n require_v that_o we_o shall_v universal_o and_o prevalent_o consent_v to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n so_o as_o not_o wilful_o to_o neglect_v any_o duty_n which_o he_o have_v enjoin_v and_o practice_v any_o sin_n which_o he_o have_v forbid_v but_o though_o this_o be_v all_o it_o require_v yet_o this_o it_o exact_v under_o the_o severe_a penalty_n in_o the_o world_n even_o that_o of_o eternal_a death_n and_o condemnation_n only_o this_o proviso_n it_o admit_v of_o that_o if_o we_o do_v repent_v and_o amend_v this_o dreadful_a obligation_n shall_v be_v null_a and_o void_a so_o that_o the_o great_a difference_n between_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n and_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n be_v only_o this_o that_o the_o penalty_n of_o the_o late_a be_v much_o more_o severe_a than_o that_o of_o the_o former_a but_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o former_a be_v much_o more_o large_a and_o comprehensive_a than_o that_o of_o the_o late_a have_v thus_o brief_o explain_v to_o you_o these_o two_o different_a law_n by_o which_o the_o love_n of_o god_n as_o well_o as_o all_o other_o virtue_n be_v make_v our_o duty_n this_o i_o conceive_v will_v be_v of_o very_o great_a use_n in_o state_v the_o due_a bound_n and_o measure_n either_o of_o love_n or_o any_o other_o virtue_n god_n require_v of_o we_o we_o must_v understand_v by_o what_o law_n it_o be_v that_o he_o require_v it_o and_o what_o measure_v of_o it_o those_o law_n do_v require_v first_o therefore_o we_o will_v consider_v what_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n second_o what_o degree_n of_o it_o be_v require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n 1_o sy_n what_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n to_o which_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o require_v all_o that_o love_n which_o in_o the_o several_a period_n of_o our_o growth_n and_o progress_n in_o religion_n we_o be_v able_a to_o render_v he_o for_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o in_o this_o corrupt_a estate_n both_o our_o understand_n and_o will_n be_v so_o darken_v and_o deprave_a that_o we_o do_v not_o apprehend_v the_o thousand_o part_n of_o those_o degree_n of_o loveliness_n that_o be_v in_o he_o and_o if_o we_o do_v yet_o our_o affection_n be_v so_o inveigle_v by_o these_o sensual_a good_n among_o which_o we_o be_v place_v that_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o render_v he_o the_o thousand_o part_n of_o that_o love_n which_o those_o degree_n of_o loveliness_n we_o do_v apprehend_v in_o he_o do_v deserve_v but_o there_o be_v no_o just_a law_n can_v exact_v of_o we_o beyond_o what_o we_o be_v able_a to_o perform_v and_o therefore_o this_o law_n of_o perfection_n be_v just_a and_o righteous_a can_v be_v suppose_v to_o exact_v more_o love_n to_o god_n from_o we_o than_o we_o have_v strength_n and_o power_n all_o our_o circumstance_n consider_v to_o render_v unto_o he_o so_o that_o he_o who_o do_v his_o utmost_a to_o understand_v and_o affect_v himself_o with_o the_o beauty_n and_o loveliness_n of_o god_n and_o to_o subtract_v his_o love_n from_o sensual_a good_a and_o terminate_v it_o on_o god_n be_v a_o just_a and_o innocent_a man_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n from_o whence_o it_o be_v evident_a first_o that_o no_o man_n can_v be_v bind_v by_o any_o law_n to_o love_n god_n as_o much_o as_o he_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v because_o he_o be_v infinite_o lovely_a in_o himself_o be_v the_o adequate_a object_n of_o a_o infinite_a love_n which_o no_o finite_a be_v be_v capable_a of_o 2_o lie_n that_o no_o man_n be_v bind_v to_o understand_v how_o much_o he_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v because_o this_o be_v beyond_o the_o comprehension_n of_o any_o finite_a understanding_n especial_o of_o we_o which_o be_v so_o dim-sighted_a in_o their_o apprehension_n of_o spiritual_a and_o invisible_a being_n 3_o lie_n that_o in_o this_o state_n no_o man_n be_v bind_v actual_o to_o love_n god_n so_o far_o as_o he_o apprehend_v reason_n to_o love_v he_o this_o indeed_o we_o ought_v to_o endeavour_v after_o but_o while_o we_o continue_v in_o these_o body_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o we_o so_o absolute_o to_o abstract_n our_o love_n from_o sense_n and_o sensual_a thing_n as_o not_o to_o be_v in_o the_o least_o divert_v by_o it_o from_o love_v he_o to_o that_o degree_n in_o which_o we_o know_v he_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v it_o be_v i_o confess_v our_o imperfection_n that_o our_o love_n to_o he_o be_v not_o proportionate_a to_o our_o apprehension_n of_o his_o loveliness_n but_o beside_o this_o we_o have_v many_o other_o imperfection_n that_o be_v our_o misery_n indeed_o but_o not_o our_o sin_n for_o no_o imperfection_n be_v any_o far_o our_o sin_n than_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n to_o correct_v it_o and_o there_o be_v no_o true_a lover_n of_o god_n do_v ever_o attain_v to_o that_o degree_n of_o love_n as_o not_o to_o see_v great_a reason_n to_o wish_v that_o it_o be_v in_o his_o power_n still_o to_o love_v he_o more_o which_o be_v a_o plain_a evidence_n in_o every_o period_n of_o this_o imperfect_a state_n that_o our_o affection_n be_v so_o entangle_v by_o these_o sensible_a good_n about_o we_o that_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o raise_v they_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n as_o be_v proportionate_a to_o our_o apprehension_n of_o his_o loveliness_n 4_o lie_n and_o last_o that_o no_o man_n be_v bind_v to_o love_n god_n in_o the_o several_a period_n of_o his_o growth_n and_o progress_n in_o religion_n with_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o affection_n for_o by_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n a_o man_n be_v always_o bind_v to_o love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o he_o can_v but_o in_o the_o progress_n of_o our_o religion_n we_o can_v love_v he_o much_o more_o than_o in_o the_o beginning_n for_o the_o more_o we_o know_v of_o god_n and_o the_o more_o our_o affection_n be_v disengage_v from_o these_o sensual_a good_n the_o more_o power_n and_o ability_n we_o have_v to_o love_v he_o and_o we_o be_v equal_o bind_v to_o love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o we_o can_v when_o we_o have_v ten_o degree_n of_o power_n as_o we_o be_v when_o we_o have_v but_o one_o and_o consequent_o it_o be_v as_o great_a a_o offence_n against_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n not_o to_o love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o we_o can_v when_o we_o have_v more_o power_n to_o love_v he_o as_o it_o be_v when_o we_o have_v less_o so_o that_o by_o this_o law_n we_o be_v always_o bind_v to_o love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o to_o be_v always_o augment_v our_o ability_n of_o love_v he_o and_o always_o to_o love_v he_o more_o and_o more_o as_o our_o power_n and_o ability_n increase_v and_o under_o this_o sweet_a obligation_n perhaps_o we_o shall_v lie_v to_o all_o eternity_n for_o there_o be_v infinite_a degree_n of_o loveliness_n and_o amability_n in_o god_n our_o finite_a understanding_n will_v need_v a_o infinity_o of_o duration_n to_o discover_v they_o all_o and_o it_o will_v be_v unreasonable_a for_o we_o not_o to_o love_v he_o more_o according_a as_o we_o discover_v more_o of_o the_o beauty_n and_o loveliness_n of_o his_o nature_n it_o be_v true_a in_o this_o life_n the_o difficulty_n lie_v not_o so_o
much_o in_o discover_v his_o loveliness_n as_o in_o affect_v our_o heart_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o and_o in_o raise_v our_o gross_a and_o carnal_a affection_n to_o a_o love_n proportionate_a to_o those_o discovery_n and_o it_o be_v this_o that_o create_v we_o so_o much_o toil_n and_o labour_n in_o the_o progress_n of_o our_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n but_o when_o once_o we_o be_v arrive_v into_o the_o bless_a region_n of_o immortality_n our_o affection_n be_v perfect_o subdue_v to_o the_o reason_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o dreined_a and_o clarify_v from_o all_o its_o gross_a and_o carnal_a love_n will_v as_o natural_o flame_n out_o more_o and_o more_o towards_o god_n upon_o every_o new_a discovery_n of_o his_o beauty_n as_o fire_n do_v when_o more_o combustible_a fuel_n be_v lay_v upon_o it_o and_o so_o without_o any_o toil_n or_o difficulty_n the_o more_o we_o know_v the_o more_o we_o shall_v love_v and_o so_o more_o and_o more_o for_o ever_o if_o therefore_o we_o will_v know_v what_o measure_v of_o love_n to_o god_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o by_o this_o law_n of_o perfection_n the_o answer_n be_v easy_a viz._n that_o to_o all_o eternity_n we_o be_v bind_v to_o love_v he_o as_o much_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o always_o to_o love_v he_o more_o and_o more_o as_o our_o ability_n increase_v and_o this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o sense_n of_o that_o comprehensive_a law_n of_o our_o saviour_n thou_o shall_v love_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n with_o all_o thy_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o soul_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o mind_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o strength_n mar._n 12.30_o that_o be_v thou_o shall_v employ_v thy_o faculty_n thy_o mind_n thy_o will_n and_o thy_o affection_n to_o the_o utmost_a of_o thy_o strength_n and_o power_n in_o love_v delight_v and_o take_v complacency_n in_o the_o goodness_n beauty_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n but_o 2_o lie_v what_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n which_o be_v the_o law_n by_o which_o we_o must_v stand_v or_o fall_v for_o ever_o so_o that_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o enquiry_n be_v this_o what_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v necessary_a to_o put_v we_o into_o a_o state_n of_o salvation_n the_o indispensable_a condition_n of_o our_o salvation_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o our_o obedience_n to_o this_o law_n of_o sincerity_n now_o as_o to_o this_o particular_a of_o our_o love_n of_o god_n there_o be_v two_o thing_n which_o this_o law_n exact_v of_o we_o first_o it_o require_v the_o be_v and_o existence_n of_o this_o heavenly_a virtue_n in_o we_o that_o be_v it_o require_v not_o only_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o hate_v god_n or_o be_v indifferent_a between_o love_n and_o hatred_n in_o our_o affection_n to_o he_o but_o that_o we_o shall_v real_o cordial_o and_o sincere_o love_v he_o and_o hence_o those_o eternal_a glory_n and_o beatitude_n in_o which_o our_o salvation_n do_v consist_v be_v say_v to_o be_v prepare_v by_o god_n for_o they_o that_o love_v he_o 1_o cor._n 2.9_o which_o be_v a_o plain_a evidence_n that_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o condition_n or_o qualification_n upon_o which_o our_o salvation_n do_v depend_v and_o consequent_o a_o indispensable_a duty_n of_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n and_o st._n james_n express_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v promise_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n to_o they_o that_o love_v he_o ja._n 1.12_o and_o therefore_o since_o that_o law_n of_o sincerity_n contain_v the_o condition_n of_o that_o promise_n it_o hence_o necessary_o follow_v that_o our_o love_n to_o god_n be_v a_o part_n of_o it_o since_o that_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o those_o that_o love_v he_o nay_o so_o necessary_a a_o part_n of_o that_o law_n be_v this_o excellent_a virtue_n that_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o without_o this_o the_o most_o virtuous_a action_n whatsoever_o be_v insignificant_a cipher_n in_o the_o account_n of_o god_n for_o though_o say_v he_o i_o bestow_v all_o my_o good_n to_o feed_v the_o poor_a and_o though_o i_o give_v my_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v and_o have_v not_o charity_n it_o profit_v i_o nothing_o 1_o cor._n 13.3_o where_o it_o be_v plain_a he_o take_v charity_n in_o the_o large_a sense_n for_o our_o love_n to_o god_n and_o one_o another_o he_o therefore_o that_o do_v not_o real_o love_v god_n who_o be_v not_o hearty_o touch_v and_o affect_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o goodness_n and_o perfection_n stand_v condemn_v by_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n and_o without_o repentance_n and_o amendment_n shall_v have_v no_o part_n or_o portion_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n but_o than_o second_o this_o law_n of_o sincerity_n require_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n as_o do_v together_o with_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o christianity_n effectual_o render_v we_o obedient_a to_o his_o will._n for_o as_o i_o have_v show_v you_o the_o scripture_n every_o where_o make_v our_o keep_v his_o commandment_n the_o most_o essential_a property_n of_o our_o love_n of_o he_o for_o if_o a_o man_n love_v i_o say_v our_o saviour_n he_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n joh._n 14.23_o and_o whoso_o keep_v his_o word_n say_v st._n john_n that_o be_v his_o commandment_n in_o he_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n perfect_v that_o be_v in_o he_o it_o be_v real_a and_o cordial_a and_o sincere_a 1_o joh._n 2.5_o when_o therefore_o our_o love_n to_o god_n have_v that_o power_n over_o we_o as_o together_o with_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o christianity_n to_o restrain_v we_o from_o the_o wilful_a omission_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n or_o commission_n of_o any_o know_a sin_n it_o be_v then_o perfect_v to_o that_o degree_n which_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v but_o before_o we_o dismiss_v this_o argument_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o give_v a_o more_o particular_a account_n of_o it_o 1._o therefore_o this_o law_n of_o sincerity_n require_v that_o some_o degree_n of_o true_a love_n to_o god_n shall_v be_v intermingle_v with_o the_o other_o part_n of_o our_o obedience_n to_o he_o because_o this_o as_o i_o have_v show_v you_o be_v one_o great_a and_o essential_a part_n of_o that_o obedience_n which_o it_o require_v and_o therefore_o if_o out_o of_o mere_a fear_n of_o god_n we_o shall_v obey_v he_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n yet_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v defective_a in_o this_o our_o obedience_n will_v be_v lame_a and_o partial_a and_o want_v a_o great_a part_n of_o that_o entireness_n which_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v for_o since_o it_o require_v we_o to_o love_n god_n under_o the_o same_o penalty_n of_o eternal_a death_n that_o it_o require_v all_o its_o other_o duty_n we_o can_v no_o more_o be_v save_v by_o it_o without_o this_o virtue_n than_o without_o justice_n temperance_n and_o chastity_n yea_o consider_v how_o necessary_a this_o be_v both_o to_o quicken_v our_o obedience_n here_o and_o qualify_v we_o for_o happiness_n hereafter_o we_o may_v much_o better_o spare_v any_o virtue_n of_o religion_n than_o this_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n this_o therefore_o be_v indispensable_o necessary_a according_a to_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o degree_n of_o true_a love_n to_o god_n intermingle_v with_o the_o other_o part_n of_o our_o obedience_n 2_o lie_n this_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v of_o we_o only_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n as_o in_o conjunction_n with_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o christianity_n be_v actual_o sufficient_a to_o enforce_v our_o obedience_n it_o do_v not_o require_v we_o to_o love_n god_n in_o that_o heroic_a degree_n as_o not_o to_o need_v any_o other_o motive_n to_o engage_v we_o to_o obey_v his_o will_n for_o if_o it_o do_v no_o man_n can_v be_v in_o a_o good_a state_n till_o he_o be_v able_a to_o obey_v god_n pure_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n without_o any_o respect_n either_o to_o those_o glorious_a advantage_n he_o promise_v or_o those_o endless_a torment_n he_o denounce_v which_o require_v such_o a_o ardent_a degree_n of_o love_n to_o he_o as_o i_o doubt_v few_o good_a man_n arrive_v to_o in_o this_o life_n i_o know_v it_o be_v usual_o say_v by_o those_o that_o handle_v this_o argument_n that_o to_o love_n god_n above_o all_o thing_n be_v the_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o which_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n oblige_v we_o but_o either_o this_o must_v be_v a_o mistake_n or_o no_o man_n can_v be_v good_a till_o he_o be_v so_o perfect_a a_o lover_n of_o god_n as_o not_o to_o need_v any_o other_o motive_n but_o that_o of_o his_o own_o love_n to_o oblige_v he_o to_o obedience_n for_o man_n need_v no_o motive_n to_o persuade_v they_o to_o choose_v what_o they_o love_v best_a and_o therefore_o if_o man_n love_v god_n above_o all_o they_o
a_o plain_a token_n that_o we_o do_v not_o hearty_o desire_v to_o be_v more_o belove_v of_o god_n and_o consequent_o that_o we_o do_v not_o love_v he_o so_o that_o in_o fine_a the_o sum_n of_o all_o be_v this_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n require_v we_o to_o love_n god_n with_o all_o our_o may_v and_o with_o all_o our_o strength_n that_o be_v as_o much_o as_o we_o be_v able_a in_o every_o period_n of_o our_o growth_n and_o progress_n in_o religion_n and_o by_o how_o much_o we_o love_v he_o less_o than_o we_o be_v able_a by_o so_o much_o less_o shall_v be_v the_o future_a reward_n of_o our_o love_n but_o then_o for_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n that_o only_o require_v of_o we_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o he_o as_o do_v together_o with_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o religion_n effectual_o incline_v we_o to_o obey_v he_o sincere_o and_o to_o endeavour_v to_o improve_v our_o obedience_n into_o far_a degree_n of_o perfection_n and_o so_o long_o as_o we_o fall_v short_a of_o this_o we_o be_v bad_a man_n and_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n abide_v upon_o we_o and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o text_n we_o shall_v or_o ought_v to_o love_v god_n 2._o i_o proceed_v now_o to_o the_o second_o part_n viz._n the_o reason_n why_o we_o ought_v to_o love_v he_o and_o that_o be_v because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o which_o though_o it_o be_v but_o short_a in_o word_n yet_o be_v extreme_o comprehensive_a in_o sense_n contain_v in_o it_o such_o puissant_a motive_n and_o endear_n obligation_n as_o can_v but_o affect_v we_o if_o we_o have_v any_o spark_n of_o tenderness_n or_o ingenuity_n remain_v in_o we_o for_o in_o this_o argument_n or_o reason_n these_o six_o thing_n be_v employ_v 1._o that_o he_o begin_v in_o love_n to_o we_o 2._o that_o he_o begin_v before_o we_o can_v any_o way_n deserve_v it_o 3._o that_o he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o when_o we_o deserve_v his_o hatred_n 4._o that_o he_o begin_v when_o he_o foresee_v he_o can_v never_o make_v any_o advantage_n by_o it_o 5._o he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o to_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a or_o too_o good_a for_o we_o 6._o that_o he_o so_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o as_o to_o condescend_v by_o all_o the_o art_n of_o importunity_n to_o court_v we_o to_o accept_v his_o love_n all_o which_o be_v very_o powerful_a consideration_n to_o engage_v we_o to_o return_v he_o love_n for_o love_n 1._o he_o begin_v in_o love_n to_o we_o have_v he_o only_o engage_v himself_o to_o re-love_n we_o whensoever_o we_o begin_v to_o love_v he_o and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n remain_v indifferent_a in_o his_o affection_n towards_o we_o this_o will_v have_v be_v a_o mighty_a endear_n obligation_n for_o the_o great_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o love_n of_o such_o poor_a worm_n as_o we_o and_o much_o more_o to_o engage_v himself_o to_o repay_v they_o with_o a_o correspondent_a affection_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o noble_a expression_n of_o his_o great_a and_o generous_a goodness_n but_o that_o he_o shall_v not_o only_o take_v notice_n of_o and_o return_v our_o love_n but_o forestall_v and_o anticipate_v it_o that_o he_o shall_v condescend_v to_o make_v the_o first_o address_n and_o tender_v of_o love_n to_o we_o be_v such_o a_o expression_n of_o goodness_n as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o inflame_v the_o most_o stupid_a and_o insensible_a soul_n for_o he_o that_o love_v another_o lay_v a_o obligation_n upon_o he_o and_o render_v he_o extreme_o behold_v he_o lend_v he_o his_o heart_n and_o soul_n which_o be_v much_o more_o valuable_a than_o money_n and_o he_o become_v his_o creditor_n and_o acquire_v a_o just_a claim_n to_o be_v repay_v with_o mutual_a affection_n for_o not_o to_o repay_v love_n for_o love_n be_v equal_o unjust_a and_o ungrateful_a he_o therefore_o that_o begin_v to_o love_v do_v thereby_o render_v the_o person_n belove_v his_o debtor_n and_o acquire_v a_o just_a right_o to_o be_v belove_v by_o he_o again_o though_o he_o shall_v have_v no_o other_o pretence_n to_o or_o interest_n in_o his_o affection_n especial_o if_o he_o be_v one_o who_o be_v much_o our_o superior_a in_o all_o endear_n perfection_n and_o accomplishment_n because_o this_o must_v needs_o render_v his_o love_n more_o valuable_a and_o consequent_o augment_v our_o obligation_n to_o re-love_n he_o when_o therefore_o the_o great_a god_n himself_o shall_v begin_v to_o love_v we_o who_o do_v so_o infinite_o excel_v we_o in_o all_o manner_n of_o amiable_a perfection_n how_o deep_o be_v we_o oblige_v and_o behold_v to_o he_o what_o infinite_a sum_n of_o love_n must_v we_o owe_v he_o if_o he_o have_v lay_v no_o other_o obligation_n upon_o we_o have_v neither_o make_v nor_o feed_v nor_o clothe_v nor_o provide_v for_o we_o if_o he_o have_v no_o other_o claim_n to_o our_o love_n but_o only_o this_o that_o he_o first_o love_v we_o yet_o this_o be_v such_o as_o we_o can_v frustrate_v without_o be_v extreme_o unjust_a and_o ungrateful_a for_o he_o be_v so_o much_o aforehand_o in_o kindness_n with_o we_o have_v so_o much_o get_v the_o start_n of_o we_o in_o love_n that_o we_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o overtake_v he_o he_o love_v we_o long_o before_o we_o have_v a_o be_v when_o we_o exist_v only_o in_o his_o own_o decree_n to_o make_v we_o man_n and_o to_o provide_v for_o our_o happiness_n so_o that_o now_o we_o be_v so_o far_o behindhand_o in_o arrear_n of_o love_n to_o he_o that_o we_o shall_v need_v as_o well_o as_o have_v a_o eternity_n to_o discharge_v they_o and_o shall_v we_o from_o henceforth_o every_o moment_n love_v he_o more_o and_o more_o to_o the_o long_a imaginary_a period_n of_o duration_n yet_o we_o shall_v still_o owe_v he_o all_o that_o eternity_n of_o love_n that_o be_v due_a before_o we_o begin_v to_o love_v he_o and_o shall_v we_o grudge_n to_o pay_v he_o a_o mite_n to_o who_o we_o be_v indebt_v million_o and_o be_v it_o not_o high_a time_n for_o we_o to_o begin_v to_o love_v he_o now_o who_o have_v love_v we_o so_o long_o already_o for_o nothing_o without_o the_o least_o shadow_n of_o requital_n 2_o lie_n he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o before_o we_o can_v any_o way_n deserve_v it_o for_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o creature_n that_o owe_v all_o to_o god_n the_o fountain_n of_o its_o be_v to_o deserve_v any_o thing_n at_o his_o hand_n because_o he_o have_v every_o thing_n from_o he_o and_o so_o can_v render_v he_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v his_o own_o already_o by_o a_o unalienable_a propriety_n but_o the_o noble_a and_o most_o acceptable_a sacrifice_n that_o we_o be_v able_a to_o render_v unto_o god_n be_v our_o hearty_a and_o unfeigned_a love_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o we_o any_o way_n to_o deserve_v his_o love_n who_o be_v so_o much_o above_o we_o and_o have_v such_o a_o absolute_a dominion_n over_o we_o it_o will_v doubtless_o be_v offer_v up_o our_o soul_n to_o he_o inflame_v with_o love_n and_o affection_n for_o it_o be_v this_o alone_a that_o consecrate_v all_o our_o service_n and_o render_v they_o valuable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n if_o love_n like_o a_o universal_a soul_n be_v not_o diffuse_v throughout_o all_o our_o religion_n and_o do_v not_o act_n and_o animate_v every_o part_n of_o it_o in_o god_n account_n all_o our_o demure_a pretence_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o lifeless_a puppet_n and_o image_n of_o true_a religion_n which_o though_o they_o may_v speak_v and_o move_v and_o act_v like_o that_o which_o they_o represent_v and_o imitate_v yet_o want_v that_o inward_a form_n and_o principle_n that_o give_v it_o life_n and_o motion_n and_o to_o have_v nothing_o of_o religion_n but_o mere_o the_o shape_n and_o outside_o be_v as_o bad_a at_o least_o in_o god_n account_n as_o to_o have_v none_o at_o all_o since_o therefore_o it_o be_v love_n that_o give_v worth_a and_o value_n to_o all_o our_o other_o service_n and_o render_v they_o acceptable_a to_o god_n it_o hence_o necessary_o follow_v that_o itself_o be_v the_o most_o grateful_a thing_n we_o can_v render_v to_o he_o and_o that_o when_o this_o be_v want_v we_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v capable_a of_o deserve_v his_o love_n that_o nothing_o we_o do_v can_v be_v please_v or_o acceptable_a in_o his_o eye_n wherefore_o since_o he_o love_v we_o before_o we_o love_v he_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o it_o be_v not_o our_o desert_n but_o his_o own_o goodness_n that_o first_o endear_v he_o to_o we_o for_o when_o we_o do_v not_o love_v he_o we_o can_v have_v neither_o form_n nor_o comeliness_n to_o attract_v his_o love_n our_o love_n to_o he_o be_v the_o only_a beauty_n that_o can_v render_v we_o amiable_a in_o his_o eye_n so_o that_o he_o
can_v have_v no_o other_o motive_n to_o incline_v he_o to_o love_v we_o but_o only_o the_o immense_a benevolence_n of_o his_o own_o nature_n since_o therefore_o he_o have_v love_v i_o without_o any_o desert_n of_o i_o can_v i_o forbear_v to_o love_v he_o who_o have_v deserve_v so_o well_o of_o i_o if_o he_o have_v never_o express_v any_o kindness_n towards_o i_o yet_o i_o have_v infinite_a reason_n to_o love_v he_o because_o of_o the_o infinite_a loveliness_n of_o his_o nature_n but_o when_o i_o add_v to_o this_o the_o unspeakable_a love_n he_o bear_v i_o when_o i_o have_v neither_o beauty_n to_o endear_v nor_o desert_n to_o oblige_v he_o what_o a_o tender_a care_n he_o take_v of_o my_o welfare_n and_o how_o big_a his_o thought_n be_v with_o design_n of_o kindness_n to_o i_o i_o be_o not_o able_a to_o reflect_v upon_o my_o coldness_n and_o indifference_n towards_o he_o without_o the_o great_a shame_n and_o confusion_n especial_o consider_v 3_o lie_n that_o he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o when_o we_o deserve_v his_o hatred_n and_o indeed_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o wretched_a condition_n in_o which_o his_o love_n find_v we_o when_o it_o first_o address_v to_o we_o and_o cast_v its_o gracious_a eye_n upon_o we_o we_o shall_v find_v sufficient_a reason_n to_o wonder_v that_o it_o do_v not_o immediate_o convert_v into_o implacable_a fury_n for_o when_o it_o first_o look_v down_o on_o we_o from_o the_o battlement_n of_o heaven_n it_o behold_v we_o wallow_v in_o our_o blood_n all_o pollute_a and_o distain_v with_o the_o foul_a treason_n and_o rebellion_n it_o see_v we_o unanimous_o engage_v in_o a_o unnatural_a conspiracy_n against_o the_o bless_a author_n of_o our_o being_n convert_v those_o very_a faculty_n he_o bestow_v upon_o we_o into_o weapon_n of_o rebellion_n against_o he_o and_o arm_v the_o effect_n of_o his_o bounty_n against_o his_o sovereign_a authority_n it_o behold_v our_o nature_n all_o deprave_a and_o vitiate_a our_o faculty_n all_o disorder_a and_o confuse_a our_o mind_n surround_v with_o egyptian_a darkness_n our_o will_n bias_v with_o wild_a and_o irregular_a inclination_n our_o affection_n overgrow_v with_o monstrous_a and_o preternatural_a lust_n and_o all_o the_o beautiful_a structure_n of_o our_o nature_n most_o miserable_o disfigure_v and_o deform_v and_o certain_o one_o will_v have_v think_v that_o such_o a_o loathsome_a spectacle_n as_o this_o may_v have_v be_v sufficient_a to_o extinguish_v his_o love_n for_o ever_o and_o stifle_v all_o his_o tender_a resentment_n towards_o we_o but_o so_o invincible_a be_v his_o kindness_n to_o we_o that_o all_o the_o deformity_n we_o have_v superinduce_v upon_o our_o nature_n all_o our_o unworthiness_n to_o be_v belove_v by_o he_o all_o the_o rude_a affront_v and_o indignity_n we_o have_v offer_v be_v not_o able_a so_o much_o as_o for_o one_o moment_n to_o stop_v or_o divert_v the_o impetuous_a current_n of_o his_o goodness_n but_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o reason_n that_o he_o have_v to_o hate_v we_o he_o fix_v his_o love_n upon_o we_o and_o notwithstanding_o the_o continuance_n of_o those_o reason_n do_v still_o persist_v to_o love_v we_o and_o while_o we_o be_v abuse_v of_o his_o kindness_n dishonour_v his_o name_n and_o trample_v on_o his_o law_n and_o authority_n he_o be_v continual_o mindful_a and_o active_a to_o do_v we_o good_a and_o do_v incessant_o employ_v his_o restless_a thought_n extend_v his_o watchful_a eye_n and_o exert_v his_o powerful_a arm_n to_o contrive_v promote_v and_o procure_v our_o happiness_n as_o if_o he_o be_v resolve_v to_o be_v as_o obstinate_a in_o love_n as_o we_o be_v in_o unkindness_n to_o contend_v with_o we_o for_o victory_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a to_o vanquish_v we_o with_o the_o charm_n of_o a_o invincible_a kindness_n and_o now_o methinks_v it_o shall_v be_v impossible_a for_o any_o one_o that_o have_v but_o the_o reason_n of_o a_o man_n to_o be_v so_o base_a and_o disingenuous_a as_o not_o to_o be_v endear_v by_o such_o a_o victorious_a love_n o_o bless_a god_n do_v thou_o love_v i_o who_o have_v so_o many_o way_n deserve_v thy_o hatred_n and_o can_v i_o hate_v thou_o who_o have_v so_o infinite_o merit_v my_o love_n have_v i_o not_o be_v long_o enough_o thy_o enemy_n already_o and_o have_v thou_o not_o be_v long_o enough_o my_o friend_n at_o last_o to_o thaw_v my_o obdurate_a enmity_n and_o melt_v i_o into_o a_o reciprocal_a kindness_n barbarous_a heart_n can_v thou_o still_o withstand_v these_o puissant_a endearment_n of_o almighty_a love_n that_o have_v so_o long_o repay_v thou_o smile_n for_o affront_v and_o return_v thou_o favour_n for_o provocation_n for_o shame_v if_o thou_o have_v any_o sense_n of_o gratitude_n or_o modesty_n in_o thou_o be_v at_o last_o persuade_v to_o hearken_v to_o the_o love_n of_o thy_o maker_n and_o to_o return_v he_o love_n for_o love_n 4_o thly_a he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o when_o he_o can_v never_o reap_v the_o least_o advantage_n to_o himself_o by_o it_o have_v we_o be_v capable_a either_o of_o benefit_v or_o injure_v he_o of_o add_v to_o or_o substract_v from_o his_o happiness_n his_o own_o interest_n may_v have_v oblige_v he_o to_o love_v we_o or_o at_o least_o to_o have_v pretend_a kindness_n to_o we_o that_o so_o he_o may_v the_o better_o obtain_v his_o end_n upon_o we_o and_o engage_v we_o to_o contribute_v more_o free_o to_o his_o happiness_n but_o such_o a_o poor_a design_n as_o this_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o divinity_n which_o imply_v infinite_a perfection_n and_o consequent_o infinite_a happiness_n and_o for_o he_o who_o be_v infinite_o happy_a to_o design_n a_o contribution_n of_o happiness_n from_o his_o creature_n imply_v a_o contradiction_n because_o the_o very_a design_v of_o a_o far_a happiness_n imply_v a_o present_a want_n and_o insufficiency_n which_o can_v have_v no_o place_n in_o a_o be_v that_o be_v infinite_o happy_a already_o the_o happiness_n of_o god_n therefore_o be_v so_o immense_a and_o secure_a that_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v to_o or_o substract_v from_o it_o it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v love_v we_o for_o any_o self-interest_n or_o advantage_n it_o be_v out_o of_o the_o reach_n of_o any_o power_n whatsoever_o either_o to_o benefit_n or_o injure_v he_o and_o his_o love_n to_o we_o can_v have_v no_o other_o design_n but_o only_o our_o happiness_n and_o welfare_n he_o his_o infinite_o perfect_a and_o happy_a in_o himself_o and_o consequent_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o love_v we_o for_o his_o own_o advantage_n it_o be_v impossible_a that_o he_o who_o be_v infinite_o happy_a in_o himself_o shall_v be_v capable_a of_o receive_v any_o advantage_n from_o any_o thing_n without_o he_o so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o other_o end_n of_o his_o love_n but_o only_o to_o render_v we_o like_o himself_o complete_o perfect_a and_o happy_a for_o when_o he_o first_o set_v his_o heart_n upon_o we_o and_o choose_v we_o for_o his_o favourite_n he_o know_v his_o own_o happiness_n to_o be_v so_o immense_a and_o stable_a as_o that_o he_o can_v never_o need_v our_o love_n or_o service_n either_o to_o add_v more_o to_o it_o or_o to_o continue_v and_o perpetuate_v it_o which_o from_o eternity_n to_o eternity_n be_v and_o be_v and_o always_o will_v be_v commensurate_a to_o the_o boundless_a capacity_n of_o his_o nature_n but_o such_o be_v his_o innate_a goodness_n and_o beneficence_n as_o will_v not_o permit_v he_o to_o be_v happy_a alone_o to_o content_v himself_o in_o a_o solitary_a fruition_n of_o his_o own_o essential_a beatitude_n but_o to_o gratify_v the_o benign_a inclination_n of_o his_o nature_n he_o must_v have_v companion_n in_o happiness_n upon_o who_o he_o may_v diffuse_v his_o goodness_n and_o imprint_v his_o own_o bliss_n and_o perfection_n and_o it_o be_v only_o this_o frank_a and_o generous_a motive_n that_o first_o oblige_v he_o to_o cast_v a_o eye_n of_o love_n towards_o we_o when_o we_o have_v neither_o worth_n to_o deserve_v nor_o power_n to_o requite_v his_o kindness_n than_o do_v his_o own_o benignity_n incline_v his_o heart_n to_o love_v we_o and_o to_o invite_v and_o receive_v we_o into_o a_o participation_n of_o his_o happiness_n he_o know_v well_o enough_o that_o the_o most_o we_o be_v capable_a to_o do_v for_o he_o be_v only_o to_o love_n and_o obey_v to_o praise_v and_o honour_n and_o adore_v he_o and_o that_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o this_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a for_o he_o to_o reap_v the_o least_o advantage_n by_o it_o that_o if_o we_o do_v love_n and_o obey_v he_o the_o profit_n will_v all_o redound_v to_o ourselves_o and_o that_o if_o we_o do_v not_o ourselves_o only_a will_v fare_v the_o worse_a for_o it_o so_o that_o whether_o we_o do_v or_o no_o it_o will_v be_v all_o one_o to_o he_o his_o happiness_n will_v be_v still_o
the_o same_o without_o the_o least_o addition_n or_o substraction_n and_o yet_o when_o thing_n be_v in_o this_o posture_n when_o he_o have_v no_o self-interest_n to_o serve_v upon_o we_o no_o motive_n but_o his_o own_o benignity_n to_o endear_v he_o to_o we_o than_o do_v he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o and_o to_o express_v the_o earning_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o bowel_n towards_o we_o and_o now_o how_o can_v we_o think_v of_o this_o and_o not_o be_v affect_v with_o it_o how_o can_v we_o any_o long_o avoid_v be_v captivate_v with_o the_o thought_n of_o such_o a_o generous_a kindness_n consider_v o_o my_o soul_n thy_o god_n gain_v nothing_o by_o all_o his_o love_n to_o thou_o but_o thou_o gain_v infinite_o by_o thy_o love_n to_o he_o by_o love_v he_o thou_o glorifie_v thyself_o and_o crown_v thy_o own_o desire_n with_o happiness_n but_o he_o be_v not_o one_o jot_n the_o better_a for_o love_v nor_o will_v he_o have_v be_v one_o jot_n the_o worse_a if_o he_o have_v never_o love_v thou_o at_o all_o and_o yet_o out_o of_o pure_a generous_a goodness_n he_o love_v thou_o a_o thousand_o time_n more_o than_o thou_o love_v thyself_o or_o be_v ever_o able_a to_o love_v he_o and_o can_v thou_o be_v such_o a_o wretched_a thing_n so_o lose_v to_o all_o that_o be_v ingenuous_a and_o modest_a as_o not_o to_o return_v he_o love_n for_o love_n 5_o thly_a he_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o to_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a or_o too_o good_a for_o we_o consider_v how_o little_o we_o deserve_v his_o love_n how_o much_o we_o have_v deserve_v his_o hatred_n and_o how_o uncapable_a we_o be_v to_o make_v he_o any_o valuable_a requital_n it_o be_v sufficient_a matter_n of_o wonder_n that_o ever_o he_o can_v prevail_v with_o himself_o to_o love_v we_o in_o the_o least_o degree_n but_o that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o reason_n to_o the_o contrary_n he_o shall_v not_o only_o begin_v to_o love_n but_o to_o be_v so_o liberal_a of_o his_o kindness_n to_o we_o be_v matter_n of_o just_a astonishment_n it_o be_v a_o mighty_a kindness_n in_o he_o to_o create_v we_o what_o we_o be_v and_o make_v such_o a_o plentiful_a provision_n for_o our_o comfortable_a subsistence_n here_o for_o wheresoever_o we_o direct_v our_o eye_n whether_o we_o reflect_v they_o inward_o upon_o ourselves_o we_o behold_v his_o goodness_n to_o occupy_v and_o penetrate_v the_o root_n and_o centre_n of_o our_o being_n and_o discern_v the_o lively_a character_n of_o his_o love_n in_o the_o incomparable_a frame_n and_o structure_n of_o our_o nature_n or_o whether_o we_o extend_v they_o abroad_o towards_o the_o thing_n about_o we_o we_o may_v perceive_v ourselves_o like_o fortunate_a island_n surround_v with_o a_o ocean_n of_o blessing_n contain_v whatsoever_o be_v necessary_a for_o our_o sustenance_n convenient_a for_o our_o use_n and_o pleasant_a for_o our_o enjoyment_n and_o be_v it_o not_o wondrous_a love_n in_o he_o to_o make_v such_o liberal_a provision_n for_o such_o undeserving_a guest_n but_o this_o be_v the_o small_a part_n of_o his_o kindness_n for_o he_o have_v inspire_v we_o with_o immortal_a mind_n and_o stamp_v they_o with_o the_o most_o fair_a impress_n of_o his_o own_o divinity_n viz._n a_o knowledge_n of_o truth_n and_o a_o love_n of_o goodness_n and_o a_o forward_a capacity_n of_o the_o high_a perfection_n and_o pure_a happiness_n and_o to_o fill_v and_o gratify_v these_o our_o noble_a faculty_n and_o capacity_n he_o have_v prepare_v for_o we_o a_o heaven_n of_o immortal_a joy_n and_o furnish_v it_o with_o all_o the_o delight_n that_o this_o our_o heavenborn_a mind_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o lest_o we_o shall_v fall_v short_a of_o it_o he_o have_v send_v his_o bless_a son_n from_o heaven_n to_o reveal_v it_o to_o we_o and_o show_v we_o the_o way_n thither_o to_o die_v for_o our_o sin_n and_o obtain_v and_o ratify_v the_o promise_n of_o our_o pardon_n thereby_o to_o encourage_v we_o to_o return_v to_o our_o duty_n and_o allegiance_n without_o which_o we_o be_v incapable_a of_o ever_o enjoy_v that_o beatifical_a state_n and_o lest_o all_o this_o shall_v not_o be_v sufficient_a he_o be_v always_o present_a with_o we_o to_o promote_v our_o happiness_n present_a by_o his_o providence_n to_o reclaim_v by_o his_o angel_n to_o solicit_v we_o and_o by_o his_o holy_a spirit_n to_o excite_v and_o cooperate_v with_o our_o endeavour_n so_o extreme_o careful_a be_v he_o not_o to_o be_v defeat_v of_o his_o kind_a intention_n to_o make_v we_o everlasting_o happy_a o_o bless_a god_n to_o what_o a_o degree_n must_v thou_o love_v we_o who_o think_v none_o of_o these_o thing_n too_o dear_a and_o good_a for_o we_o that_o do_v not_o think_v thy_o son_n too_o good_a to_o redeem_v we_o thy_o spirit_n to_o sanctify_v thy_o everlasting_a heaven_n to_o crown_n and_o reward_v we_o and_o now_o can_v our_o heart_n hold_v when_o we_o think_v of_o this_o can_v we_o be_v cold_a and_o indifferent_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o such_o a_o vigorous_a flame_n good_a god_n what_o be_v we_o make_v of_o what_o senseless_a stony_a stupid_a soul_n do_v we_o carry_v about_o we_o that_o can_v be_v love-proof_n against_o so_o many_o charm_n and_o endearment_n that_o can_v listen_v to_o so_o many_o wonder_n of_o love_n with_o such_o unconcerned_a such_o unaffected_a mind_n methinks_v if_o we_o have_v but_o the_o common_a sense_n and_o ingenuity_n of_o man_n in_o we_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a for_o we_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o much_o love_n not_o to_o be_v melt_v into_o a_o reciprocal_a kindness_n 6_o thly_a and_o last_o he_o so_o begin_v to_o love_v we_o as_o to_o condescend_v by_o all_o the_o art_n of_o importunity_n to_o court_v we_o to_o accept_v of_o his_o love_n that_o notwithstanding_o all_o our_o unworthiness_n he_o shall_v begin_v to_o love_v we_o and_o that_o to_o so_o strange_a a_o degree_n be_v a_o most_o amaze_a instance_n of_o the_o infinite_a benevolence_n of_o his_o nature_n but_o that_o he_o shall_v condescend_v to_o address_v himself_o to_o we_o to_o court_v and_o woo_v we_o as_o he_o do_v to_o accept_v of_o his_o love_n and_o to_o be_v as_o happy_a as_o he_o will_v have_v we_o be_v enough_o to_o astonish_v the_o most_o insensible_a soul_n and_o even_o to_o dissolve_v a_o heart_n of_o rock_n into_o love_n for_o thus_o the_o scripture_n in_o the_o most_o pathetic_a strain_n describe_v the_o address_n of_o this_o great_a lover_n of_o soul_n borrow_v metaphor_n to_o express_v his_o love_n to_o we_o from_o all_o that_o be_v kind_a and_o love_a in_o the_o creation_n even_o from_o the_o most_o melt_a passion_n in_o mankind_n from_o the_o relent_n of_o father_n and_o yearning_n of_o mother_n bowel_n towards_o their_o dear_a offspring_n it_o paint_v he_o in_o all_o the_o charm_a posture_n of_o a_o implore_v beseech_v and_o importunate_a lover_n woo_v and_o entreat_v we_o to_o be_v happy_a even_o with_o tear_n of_o pity_n in_o his_o eye_n with_o charm_n of_o love_n in_o his_o mouth_n and_o tender_v of_o mercy_n in_o his_o hand_n and_o when_o with_o all_o the_o rhetoric_n of_o his_o love_n he_o can_v prevail_v with_o we_o to_o live_v it_o represent_v he_o weep_v at_o our_o funeral_n and_o like_o a_o tender-hearted_a judge_n pronounce_v our_o sentence_n with_o the_o tear_n in_o his_o eye_n by_o which_o metaphorical_a description_n he_o represent_v to_o we_o his_o infinite_a concern_v for_o our_o happiness_n how_o much_o his_o heart_n be_v set_v upon_o it_o and_o how_o hardly_o he_o can_v bear_v a_o defeat_n in_o his_o kind_n and_o merciful_a intention_n towards_o we_o for_o what_o but_o a_o infinite_a love_n can_v ever_o have_v make_v the_o king_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o stoop_v so_o low_a to_o his_o rebellious_a subject_n as_o to_o beseech_v they_o to_o lay_v down_o their_o weapon_n of_o hostility_n with_o which_o they_o can_v injure_v none_o but_o themselves_o and_o to_o listen_v to_o his_o term_n of_o mercy_n and_o accept_v of_o his_o crown_n and_o everlasting_a preferment_n one_o will_v have_v think_v it_o have_v be_v enough_o for_o he_o bare_o to_o have_v tell_v we_o how_o he_o love_v we_o how_o willing_a he_o be_v to_o pardon_n and_o advance_v we_o and_o that_o this_o have_v be_v enough_o for_o ever_o to_o recommend_v he_o to_o the_o dear_a affection_n of_o his_o creature_n but_o that_o he_o shall_v moreover_o condescend_v to_o supplicate_v our_o acceptance_n to_o beseech_v we_o not_o to_o spurn_v his_o love_n and_o frustrate_v its_o design_n of_o mercy_n to_o we_o lord_n how_o can_v we_o think_v of_o this_o without_o be_v all_o inflame_a with_o love_n to_o thou_o it_o be_v true_a he_o do_v not_o come_v in_o person_n to_o we_o because_o we_o be_v not_o able_a to_o bear_v the_o immediate_a approach_n of_o his_o glory_n
but_o many_o a_o message_n of_o love_n he_o have_v send_v we_o transcribe_v from_o his_o very_a heart_n he_o send_v his_o son_n from_o heaven_n to_o we_o and_o clothe_v he_o in_o our_o nature_n that_o therein_o we_o may_v be_v capable_a of_o converse_v free_o with_o he_o and_o all_o his_o errand_n be_v to_o deliver_v a_o message_n of_o love_n to_o the_o world_n and_o to_o court_v and_o importune_v they_o to_o listen_v to_o and_o comply_v with_o it_o and_o when_o he_o return_v again_o to_o his_o father_n he_o institute_v a_o order_n of_o man_n to_o supply_v his_o room_n and_o in_o his_o stead_n to_o woo_v the_o world_n to_o be_v happy_a for_o we_o be_v ambassador_n for_o christ_n as_o though_o god_n do_v beseech_v you_o by_o we_o we_o pray_v you_o in_o christ_n stead_n be_v you_o reconcile_v to_o god_n 2_o cor._n 5.20_o so_o that_o you_o be_v set_v upon_o the_o throne_n and_o not_o only_a man_n but_o god_n himself_o lie_v prostrate_a before_o your_o footstool_n beseech_v you_o to_o lay_v down_o your_o arm_n and_o to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o your_o best_a friend_n that_o never_o do_v you_o the_o least_o injury_n unless_o that_o be_v one_o that_o he_o have_v love_v you_o better_o by_o a_o thousand_o degree_n than_o ever_o you_o love_v yourselves_o and_o can_v we_o be_v such_o barbarous_a wretch_n as_o not_o to_o listen_v to_o he_o when_o he_o thus_o humble_v himself_o before_o we_o and_o even_o come_v upon_o his_o knee_n to_o we_o for_o reconciliation_n how_o just_o may_v the_o whole_a creation_n be_v astonish_v to_o see_v the_o great_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n condescend_v so_o low_a as_o to_o beseech_v and_o entreat_v a_o company_n of_o rude_a disdainful_a rebel_n who_o he_o can_v every_o moment_n frown_v into_o nothing_o to_o accept_v of_o his_o love_n and_o at_o last_o comply_v with_o term_n of_o friendship_n who_o will_v ever_o imagine_v but_o that_o sad_a experience_n evince_v the_o contrary_a that_o among_o reasonable_a being_n there_n shall_v be_v find_v such_o monster_n of_o ingratitude_n as_o to_o persist_v in_o enmity_n to_o god_n after_o he_o have_v thus_o humble_v himself_o and_o make_v so_o many_o lowly_a address_n only_o to_o court_n and_o woo_v we_o to_o be_v happy_a and_o thus_o you_o see_v how_o many_o puissant_a motive_n to_o love_n be_v comprehend_v in_o these_o few_o word_n because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o which_o be_v such_o as_o nothing_o can_v ever_o be_v able_a to_o resist_v but_o a_o heart_n that_o be_v steel_v with_o impudence_n and_o ingratitude_n so_o that_o if_o after_o all_o these_o obligation_n which_o god_n have_v lay_v upon_o we_o we_o do_v not_o at_o last_o surrender_v up_o our_o heart_n unto_o he_o our_o baseness_n and_o ingratitude_n be_v such_o as_o nothing_o but_o our_o eternal_a ruin_n will_v be_v able_a to_o expiate_v for_o when_o with_o all_o the_o endearment_n of_o his_o love_a kindness_n he_o find_v he_o can_v prevail_v on_o we_o to_o love_v he_o the_o very_a consideration_n how_o much_o he_o have_v oblige_v we_o and_o what_o unworthy_a requital_n we_o have_v make_v he_o will_v but_o incense_v he_o the_o more_o against_o we_o till_o it_o have_v convert_v his_o kindness_n into_o implacable_a fury_n and_o when_o once_o the_o heat_n of_o wrong_a love_n take_v fire_n and_o kindle_v into_o wrath_n it_o will_v be_v a_o quenchless_a flame_n and_o everlasting_a burn_v wherefore_o in_o the_o name_n of_o god_n sir_n let_v we_o endeavour_v to_o affect_v our_o soul_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o this_o dear_a love_n to_o warm_v our_o affection_n at_o this_o heavenly_a fire_n till_o it_o have_v insinuate_v itself_o into_o they_o and_o convert_v they_o into_o its_o own_o substance_n and_o that_o we_o may_v be_v successful_a herein_o let_v we_o take_v with_o we_o these_o follow_a direction_n 1._o let_v we_o season_v our_o mind_n with_o good_a opinion_n of_o god_n for_o since_o it_o be_v his_o goodness_n that_o be_v the_o most_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o love_n to_o he_o whatsoever_o opinion_n do_v reflect_v upon_o that_o or_o any_o way_n tend_v to_o cloud_n and_o disgrace_v it_o must_v necessary_o damp_n our_o affection_n towards_o he_o whilst_o therefore_o we_o look_v upon_o god_n as_o a_o mere_a arbitrary_a be_v as_o one_o that_o conduct_n all_o his_o action_n by_o a_o blind_a omnipotent_a selfwill_a and_o govern_v the_o world_n and_o dispense_v reward_n and_o punishment_n to_o his_o creature_n according_a to_o a_o certain_a fatal_a decree_n which_o he_o make_v without_o foresight_n or_o consideration_n as_o one_o that_o exact_v impossibility_n of_o his_o subject_n command_v the_o lame_a to_o run_v the_o blind_a to_o see_v and_o without_o ever_o enable_v they_o thereunto_o be_v resolve_v to_o damn_v they_o forever_o for_o non-performance_n whilst_o i_o say_v we_o look_v upon_o god_n through_o such_o false_a optic_n as_o these_o they_o must_v needs_o represent_v he_o exceed_o unlovely_a in_o our_o eye_n for_o though_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o there_o be_v many_o man_n that_o love_v god_n hearty_o notwithstanding_o they_o have_v entertain_v these_o sour_a and_o ghastly_a notion_n of_o he_o yet_o i_o must_v serious_o profess_v have_v i_o such_o black_a opinion_n of_o he_o i_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a hearty_o to_o love_v he_o though_o i_o be_v sure_a to_o be_v damn_v for_o ever_o for_o neglect_v it_o wherefore_o if_o we_o will_v kindle_v in_o our_o soul_n the_o love_n of_o god_n let_v we_o take_v care_n as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v to_o purge_v our_o thought_n of_o all_o ill_a opinion_n of_o he_o and_o to_o represent_v he_o fair_o to_o our_o mind_n what_o he_o true_o be_v and_o what_o the_o scripture_n represent_v he_o to_o be_v viz._n a_o most_o bountiful_a benefactor_n unto_o all_o his_o creation_n and_o a_o universal_a lover_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n one_o that_o hearty_o desire_v our_o welfare_n and_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o contribute_v to_o we_o whatsoever_o be_v necessary_a thereunto_o let_v we_o firm_o persuade_v ourselves_o that_o he_o desire_v not_o our_o ruin_n but_o will_v have_v all_o man_n to_o be_v save_v and_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n that_o when_o he_o final_o destroy_v any_o particular_a offender_n it_o be_v in_o great_a mercy_n to_o the_o public_a that_o he_o love_v not_o punishment_n for_o its_o own_o sake_n and_o never_o inflict_v it_o but_o for_o some_o gracious_a and_o merciful_a end_n these_o be_v such_o thought_n of_o god_n as_o be_v true_o worthy_a of_o he_o and_o infinite_o apt_a to_o endear_v he_o to_o all_o consider_v mind_n 2_o lie_n let_v we_o frequent_o consider_v and_o revolve_v in_o our_o mind_n the_o numerous_a reason_n and_o engagement_n that_o we_o have_v to_o love_v he_o for_o all_o virtue_n whatsoever_o begin_v in_o consideration_n and_o it_o be_v a_o rational_a accomplishment_n can_v be_v otherwise_o acquire_v but_o only_o by_o reason_n and_o discourse_n that_o be_v by_o consider_v the_o reason_n and_o press_v ourselves_o with_o the_o argument_n upon_o which_o it_o be_v found_v and_o thus_o we_o must_v do_v in_o the_o case_n before_o we_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v attain_v to_o a_o hearty_a love_n of_o god_n we_o must_v be_v often_o entertain_v our_o thought_n with_o the_o consideration_n of_o those_o great_a obligation_n he_o have_v lay_v upon_o we_o to_o love_v he_o how_o deep_o we_o be_v engage_v by_o all_o the_o tie_v of_o gratitude_n and_o ingenuity_n to_o repay_v he_o in_o his_o own_o coin_n and_o to_o return_v he_o love_n for_o love_n nor_o will_v it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o affect_v our_o heart_n with_o the_o sense_n of_o those_o obligation_n now_o and_o then_o to_o reflect_v a_o few_o slight_a and_o transient_a thought_n on_o they_o but_o with_o holy_a david_n we_o must_v muse_v on_o till_o the_o fire_n kindle_v we_o must_v fix_v and_o stay_v our_o thought_n upon_o the_o consideration_n of_o god_n endear_n love_n to_o we_o urge_v and_o press_v they_o again_o and_o again_o till_o we_o have_v wrought_v and_o chafe_v they_o into_o our_o soul_n and_o a_o heavenly_a warmth_n diffuse_v from_o they_o and_o inflame_v our_o heart_n with_o a_o divine_a affection_n wherefore_o let_v we_o frequent_o revolve_v such_o thought_n as_o these_o in_o our_o mind_n o_o my_o soul_n how_o infinite_o be_v thou_o oblige_v to_o love_v thy_o god_n who_o have_v be_v such_o a_o tender_a friend_n and_o liberal_a benefactor_n to_o thou_o who_o love_v thou_o before_o ever_o thou_o be_v capable_a of_o think_v a_o thought_n of_o love_n towards_o he_o yea_o and_o when_o thou_o do_v most_o just_o deserve_v to_o be_v excommunicate_v from_o his_o favour_n for_o ever_o and_o who_o have_v no_o other_o aim_n in_o love_v thou_o but_o to_o do_v thou_o good_a and_o make_v thou_o happy_a and_o think_v nothing_o too_o good_a for_o thou_o
you_o be_v not_o blind_a because_o you_o hear_v well_o or_o that_o you_o be_v not_o deaf_a because_o you_o taste_v well_o or_o that_o you_o have_v all_o your_o sense_n because_o you_o have_v one_o as_o that_o you_o be_v righteous_a in_o the_o general_n because_o you_o be_v so_o in_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a and_o you_o may_v as_o reasonable_o conclude_v yourself_o in_o a_o state_n of_o health_n because_o you_o have_v a_o fresh_a colour_n as_o that_o you_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n because_o you_o have_v this_o or_o that_o particular_a sign_n of_o it_o well_o but_o then_o how_o shall_v we_o resolve_v ourselves_o in_o this_o most_o material_a enquiry_n why_o do_v but_o consider_v what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v righteous_a and_o then_o reflect_v upon_o your_o own_o motion_n and_o you_o will_v quick_o feel_v whether_o you_o be_v righteous_a or_o no._n now_o to_o be_v righteous_a be_v in_o the_o general_a to_o intend_v righteous_o and_o to_o act_v according_o if_o you_o ask_v again_o how_o you_o shall_v know_v whether_o you_o so_o intend_v and_o act_v i_o shall_v only_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v a_o unreasonable_a question_n and_o that_o you_o may_v as_o well_o ask_v i_o whether_o you_o be_v hungry_a or_o thirsty_a for_o you_o do_v as_o natural_o feel_v the_o motion_n of_o your_o soul_n as_o you_o do_v the_o motion_n of_o your_o body_n and_o for_o you_o to_o ask_v another_o man_n what_o your_o own_o intention_n be_v be_v to_o make_v he_o a_o conjurer_n instead_o of_o a_o casuist_n will_v it_o not_o look_v extreme_o ridiculous_a for_o a_o man_n to_o ask_v his_o creditor_n or_o customer_n good_a sir_n how_o shall_v i_o know_v whether_o i_o intend_v to_o pay_v my_o debt_n or_o be_o sincere_o resolve_v not_o to_o overreach_v you_o shall_v any_o man_n ask_v i_o such_o a_o question_n i_o shall_v only_o bid_v he_o consult_v himself_o and_o if_o then_o he_o suspect_v his_o own_o honesty_n i_o shall_v shrewd_o suspect_v he_o have_v too_o much_o reason_n for_o it_o if_o you_o intend_v righteous_o you_o intend_v it_o know_o and_o if_o you_o know_o intend_v it_o you_o can_v but_o know_v that_o you_o intend_v it_o if_o you_o can_v know_v whether_o you_o intend_v and_o act_v righteous_o you_o can_v know_v how_o to_o do_v it_o and_o if_o you_o can_v know_v how_o to_o do_v it_o you_o be_v not_o subject_n capable_a of_o morality_n but_o must_v of_o necessity_n live_v and_o act_v at_o random_n and_o blunder_v on_o like_a traveller_n in_o the_o dark_a without_o be_v able_a to_o determine_v whether_o you_o go_v backward_o or_o forward_o if_o therefore_o you_o will_v know_v whether_o you_o be_v righteous_a man_n or_o no_o do_v not_o go_v about_o to_o perplex_v and_o entangle_v yourselves_o in_o the_o wilderness_n of_o sign_n and_o token_n for_o if_o you_o have_v a_o thousand_o sign_n of_o grace_n you_o can_v never_o safe_o conclude_v you_o be_v righteous_a till_o upon_o a_o impartial_a review_n of_o yourselves_o you_o do_v feel_v that_o you_o intend_v and_o act_v righteous_o and_o then_o and_o not_o till_o then_o you_o may_v build_v upon_o it_o that_o god_n love_v you_o for_o god_n love_n be_v a_o constant_a and_o immutable_a thing_n and_o in_o this_o the_o constancy_n of_o it_o consist_v not_o that_o it_o be_v always_o fix_v upon_o the_o same_o person_n but_o that_o it_o be_v unchangeable_o determine_v to_o the_o same_o motive_n and_o this_o motive_n be_v righteousness_n so_o that_o if_o he_o find_v this_o motive_n in_o we_o he_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o love_v we_o so_o long_o as_o it_o continue_v but_o if_o from_o righteous_a we_o become_v unrighteous_a he_o must_v either_o change_v in_o his_o affection_n or_o else_o cease_v to_o love_v we_o for_o shall_v he_o still_o love_v on_o when_o the_o reason_n be_v cease_v for_o which_o he_o love_v we_o he_o must_v either_o love_v we_o for_o no_o reason_n or_o for_o a_o reason_n that_o be_v direct_o contrary_a to_o that_o for_o which_o he_o love_v we_o first_o and_o consequent_o his_o love_n must_v either_o be_v a_o blind_a fondness_n or_o else_o a_o fickle_a and_o inconstant_a passion_n if_o therefore_o righteousness_n be_v the_o reason_n that_o move_v the_o righteous_a lord_n to_o love_n we_o gross_o flatter_v and_o abuse_v ourselves_o if_o we_o presume_v that_o he_o love_v we_o while_o we_o be_v unrighteous_a wherefore_o as_o we_o will_v not_o ruin_v ourselves_o with_o rely_v upon_o vain_a hope_n hope_n that_o will_v sink_v underneath_o we_o and_o leave_v we_o eternal_o desperate_a and_o miserable_a let_v we_o never_o conclude_v that_o we_o be_v belove_v of_o god_n till_o upon_o a_o impartial_a trial_n of_o ourselves_o we_o can_v conclude_v that_o we_o be_v sincere_o righteous_a 3_o dly_z from_o hence_o i_o infer_v what_o grand_a encouragement_n we_o have_v to_o be_v righteous_a for_o that_o god_n love_v righteousness_n be_v a_o plain_a demonstration_n that_o it_o be_v the_o most_o amiable_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n and_o that_o it_o best_o deserve_v the_o affection_n of_o all_o rational_a being_n since_o it_o have_v win_v he_o who_o never_o love_v but_o upon_o the_o best_a reason_n and_o what_o a_o most_o glorious_a thing_n be_v it_o to_o be_v adorn_v with_o the_o best_a of_o beauty_n which_o by_o such_o a_o invincible_a charm_n endear_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o most_o glorious_a be_v in_o the_o world_n if_o there_o be_v so_o much_o honour_n pay_v to_o a_o beauty_n that_o can_v smite_v and_o enslave_v a_o earthly_a potentate_n what_o be_v there_o due_a to_o that_o that_o can_v constrain_v the_o god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o we_o for_o what_o high_a mark_n can_v our_o ambition_n aim_v at_o than_o that_o of_o be_v belove_v by_o the_o great_a and_o most_o lovely_a be_v doubtless_o to_o be_v god_n favourite_n and_o image_n be_v the_o high_a advancement_n that_o any_o creature_n can_v aspire_v to_o and_o be_v i_o bear_v king_n of_o all_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o have_v all_o their_o crown_n and_o sceptre_n at_o my_o foot_n i_o be_o sure_a my_o reason_n will_v tell_v i_o that_o to_o be_v belove_v of_o god_n will_v be_v a_o great_a glory_n to_o i_o than_o to_o be_v obey_v from_o pole_n to_o pole_n and_o shall_v i_o entertain_v a_o thought_n of_o exchange_v the_o honour_n of_o be_v a_o godlike_a creature_n and_o the_o favourite_n of_o heaven_n for_o the_o crown_n and_o empire_n of_o the_o world_n my_o conscience_n will_v tell_v i_o that_o i_o degrade_v myself_o and_o prostitute_v my_o own_o glory_n for_o next_o to_o that_o of_o be_v a_o god_n myself_o the_o high_a glory_n i_o can_v think_v of_o be_v to_o be_v a_o friend_n to_o god_n and_o this_o i_o be_o sure_a to_o be_v as_o soon_o as_o ever_o i_o commence_v a_o righteous_a man._n and_o shall_v i_o stand_v so_o much_o in_o my_o own_o light_n o_o foolish_a creature_n that_o i_o be_o as_o to_o refuse_v his_o friendship_n when_o i_o may_v have_v it_o on_o such_o reasonable_a term_n and_o shall_v need_v no_o other_o endearment_n to_o introduce_v i_o into_o his_o favour_n but_o only_o that_o of_o righteousness_n o_o thou_o most_o excellent_a beauty_n with_o who_o charm_n the_o god_n of_o heaven_n be_v inflame_v what_o shall_v i_o do_v to_o make_v thou_o i_o how_o shall_v i_o obtain_v to_o be_v adorn_v with_o thy_o heavenly_a luster_n i_o will_v go_v to_o the_o bless_a fountain_n from_o whence_o thou_o be_v derive_v and_o with_o a_o heart_n hunger_a and_o thirst_v after_o thou_o beseech_v he_o to_o infuse_v thy_o stream_n into_o my_o soul_n i_o will_v shun_v whatsoever_o be_v contrary_a to_o thou_o and_o do_v whatsoever_o thou_o command_v i_o and_o never_o cease_v write_v after_o thy_o fair_a copy_n till_o i_o have_v transcribe_v thou_o into_o my_o nature_n and_o who_o will_v not_o that_o set_v any_o value_n upon_o the_o glory_n of_o be_v dear_a to_o god_n for_o beside_o the_o honour_n of_o be_v his_o favourite_n what_o a_o infinite_a advantage_n may_v we_o expect_v to_o reap_v from_o it_o for_o what_o may_v we_o not_o promise_v ourselves_o from_o the_o grace_n and_o favour_n of_o the_o great_a sovereign_n of_o being_n who_o do_v whatsoever_o please_v he_o in_o both_o world_n and_o have_v the_o absolute_a disposal_n of_o all_o the_o blessing_n that_o either_o heaven_n or_o earth_n afford_v doubtless_o we_o may_v safe_o promise_v ourselves_o every_o thing_n both_o from_o below_o and_o above_o that_o can_v either_o do_v we_o good_a here_o or_o contribute_v to_o our_o happiness_n hereafter_o for_o so_o the_o psalmist_n tell_v we_o that_o such_o be_v his_o love_n of_o righteousness_n that_o he_o will_v give_v both_o grace_n and_o glory_n and_o that_o no_o good_a thing_n will_v he_o withhold_v from_o they_o that_o walk_v upright_o
johannes_n scott_n s._n t._n p._n practical_a discourse_n concern_v obedience_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n vol._n ii_o by_o john_n scott_n d._n d._n late_a rector_n of_o st._n giles_n in_o the_o field_n london_n print_v for_o w._n kettilby_n at_o the_o bishop_n head_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n and_o s._n manship_n at_o the_o ship_n near_o the_o royal-exchange_n in_o cornhill_n mdcxcviii_o to_o the_o right_n honourable_a daniel_n earl_n of_o nottingham_n my_o lord_n i_o be_o very_o sensible_a that_o you_o be_v the_o know_a favourer_n of_o man_n of_o eminent_a worth_n and_o learning_n i_o only_o take_v this_o opportunity_n of_o acquaint_v the_o world_n that_o you_o be_v so_o of_o the_o author_n of_o these_o follow_a discourse_n that_o so_o you_o may_v receive_v in_o large_a measure_n those_o tribute_n which_o be_v due_a to_o public_a benefactor_n the_o prayer_n and_o praise_n of_o mankind_n for_o they_o who_o have_v or_o shall_v be_v better_v by_o this_o great_a author_n work_n be_v oblige_v in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n to_o remember_v that_o right_n honourable_a person_n who_o by_o his_o countenance_n do_v not_o only_o encourage_v he_o to_o be_v serviceable_a but_o do_v real_o endeavour_v to_o render_v he_o more_o useful_a to_o we_o by_o procure_v for_o he_o a_o little_a recess_n from_o the_o toil_n and_o labour_n of_o his_o weighty_a employment_n have_v this_o succeed_v in_o all_o humane_a probability_n he_o have_v live_v long_o and_o then_o we_o shall_v have_v see_v that_o true_o pious_a and_o most_o sublime_a design_n he_o intend_v to_o pursue_v and_o shall_v have_v be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o that_o uncultivated_a part_n of_o religion_n the_o duty_n of_o piety_n towards_o god_n and_o perhaps_o by_o they_o we_o shall_v have_v give_v a_o guess_n at_o the_o praise_n and_o hallelujah_n of_o those_o bless_a being_n above_n when_o they_o have_v be_v manage_v with_o that_o strength_n of_o eloquence_n that_o fervour_n of_o spirit_n poise_v and_o temper_v with_o such_o a_o judgement_n as_o he_o but_o he_o be_v go_v to_o bear_v a_o part_n in_o the_o heavenly_a choir_n where_o if_o he_o know_v what_o be_v do_v here_o below_o it_o will_v be_v a_o please_a prospect_n to_o my_o dear_a depart_a friend_n to_o see_v your_o lordship_n and_o your_o noble_a family_n the_o possessor_n and_o design_v heir_n of_o the_o honour_n of_o both_o world_n i_o be_o my_o lord_n your_o lordship_n most_o humble_a and_o most_o devote_a servant_n humphrey_z zouch_n 1_o john_n v._n 3_o for_o this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a in_o the_o first_o verse_n the_o apostle_n assert_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n that_o be_v so_o believe_v as_o to_o act_v suitable_a to_o his_o belief_n be_v bear_v of_o god_n he_o be_v become_v a_o child_n of_o god_n by_o partake_v of_o his_o nature_n and_o stamp_v with_o his_o likeness_n and_o every_o one_o that_o love_v he_o that_o beget_v i._n e._n god_n his_o heavenly_a father_n love_v he_o also_o that_o be_v beget_v of_o he_o have_v a_o true_a hearty_a kindness_n for_o all_o that_o be_v god_n child_n and_o then_o in_o the_o second_o verse_n by_o this_o say_v he_o we_o know_v that_o we_o love_v the_o child_n of_o god_n and_o consequent_o that_o we_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n if_o we_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n that_o be_v if_o we_o so_o love_v he_o as_o to_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o indeed_o if_o we_o do_v not_o so_o love_v he_o we_o do_v not_o love_v he_o at_o all_o and_o consequent_o we_o do_v not_o love_v his_o child_n nor_o be_v we_o his_o child_n ourselves_o of_o which_o he_o give_v a_o full_a proof_n in_o the_o text_n for_o this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a in_o which_o word_n you_o have_v first_o a_o account_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n what_o it_o be_v this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o second_o a_o motive_n to_o engage_v we_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o his_o commandment_n be_v not_o grievous_a i_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o of_o these_o the_o account_n of_o this_o love_n of_o god_n what_o it_o be_v this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n by_o the_o love_n of_o god_n here_o we_o be_v not_o to_o understand_v god_n love_n to_o we_o but_o our_o love_n to_o god_n as_o be_v plain_a by_o this_o because_o it_o be_v place_v in_o our_o keep_v his_o commandment_n this_o be_v the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v this_o be_v the_o natural_a effect_n and_o proper_a exercise_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o keep_n god_n commandment_n be_v not_o the_o affection_n of_o love_n to_o he_o but_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o so_o that_o the_o mean_v of_o the_o word_n be_v this_o this_o be_v the_o most_o genuine_a expression_n and_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o our_o love_n of_o god_n that_o we_o obey_v his_o law_n and_o hence_o our_o saviour_n make_v this_o the_o proper_a trial_n and_o proof_n of_o our_o love_n to_o he_o if_o you_o love_v i_o keep_v my_o commandment_n john_n fourteen_o 15_o for_o this_o he_o tell_v we_o ver_fw-la 23._o be_v the_o necessary_a consequence_n of_o our_o love_n to_o he_o if_o any_o man_n love_v i_o he_o will_v keep_v my_o word_n i._n e._n this_o will_n most_o certain_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o his_o love_n to_o i_o that_o he_o will_v be_v obedient_a to_o my_o will._n and_o by_o this_o he_o plain_o tell_v we_o he_o will_v judge_v of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o friendship_n to_o he_o john_n xv_o 14_o you_o be_v my_o friend_n if_o you_o do_v whatsoever_o i_o command_v you_o from_o all_o which_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o most_o proper_a and_o characteristical_a expression_n of_o our_o love_n to_o god_n be_v our_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o indeed_o consider_v that_o god_n be_v our_o sovereign_a lawgiver_n there_o be_v no_o action_n by_o which_o we_o can_v so_o natural_o express_v our_o affection_n to_o he_o as_o by_o those_o of_o obedience_n and_o submission_n to_o his_o law_n and_o therefore_o we_o find_v in_o scripture_n that_o to_o love_n god_n and_o obey_v his_o law_n and_o to_o hate_n god_n and_o disobey_v they_o be_v general_o use_v promiscuous_o for_o one_o another_o and_o that_o for_o very_o good_a reason_n for_o here_o our_o love_n and_o hatred_n of_o god_n be_v not_o consider_v as_o conversant_a about_o god_n as_o god_n in_o which_o sense_n perhaps_o there_o be_v no_o creature_n in_o the_o world_n can_v be_v say_v to_o hate_v he_o but_o as_o conversant_a about_o he_o as_o lord_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o world_n as_o he_o give_v law_n to_o mankind_n whereby_o he_o command_v they_o what_o to_o do_v and_o forbid_v they_o what_o to_o avoid_v and_o in_o this_o sense_n to_o love_n god_n be_v to_o love_v he_o as_o govern_v and_o command_v and_o as_o such_o we_o can_v no_o otherwise_o express_v our_o love_n to_o he_o but_o by_o keep_v his_o commandment_n but_o for_o the_o far_o clear_n of_o this_o i_o shall_v in_o prosecution_n of_o the_o argument_n do_v these_o two_o thing_n i._o show_v you_o that_o wheresoever_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o prove_v a_o principle_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o ii_o that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v in_o itself_o the_o most_o perfect_a and_o effectual_a principle_n of_o obedience_n 1._o that_o wheresoever_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o prove_v a_o principle_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o and_o this_o i_o doubt_v not_o will_v evident_o appear_v if_o we_o consider_v that_o all_o the_o natural_a expression_n of_o our_o love_n as_o it_o be_v terminate_v upon_o god_n do_v of_o their_o own_o accord_n final_o resolve_v themselves_o into_o obedience_n to_o his_o will._n for_o love_n wheresoever_o it_o be_v hearty_a and_o sincere_a always_o express_v itself_o in_o such_o symptom_n as_o these_o 1._o in_o industrious_o endeavour_v to_o resemble_v the_o belove_a 2._o in_o conform_v the_o will_n design_n and_o intention_n to_o the_o will_n and_o design_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o belove_a 3._o in_o a_o solicitous_a care_n of_o avoid_v those_o thing_n which_o may_v any_o way_n displease_v or_o distaste_v the_o belove_a 4._o in_o a_o cheerful_a readiness_n to_o undergo_v any_o thing_n be_v it_o never_o so_o hard_a or_o difficult_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o belove_a all_o which_o expression_n of_o our_o love_n when_o it_o be_v terminate_v upon_o god_n do_v most_o natural_o run_v into_o obedience_n to_o his_o will._n 1._o if_o we_o love_v god_n our_o love_n will_v
rebel_n to_o god_n whether_o he_o will_v or_o no_o because_o the_o will_n be_v the_o command_a principle_n and_o have_v such_o a_o absolute_a empire_n over_o all_o our_o action_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o we_o to_o do_v what_o we_o will_v not_o so_o that_o if_o we_o will_v and_o design_n what_o god_n will_v and_o design_n our_o practice_n must_v necessary_o be_v conformable_a to_o his_o will_n so_o far_o as_o we_o know_v and_o understand_v it_o for_o as_o god_n will_n give_v law_n to_o we_o so_o our_o will_n give_v law_n to_o our_o action_n and_o so_o by_o consequence_n the_o will_n of_o god_n must_v be_v the_o sovereign_a law_n whereby_o both_o be_v regulate_v and_o determine_v from_o hence_o therefore_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o if_o we_o sincere_o love_v god_n we_o shall_v will_v as_o he_o will_v and_o that_o if_o we_o will_v as_o he_o will_v we_o shall_v act_v as_o he_o will_v have_v we_o and_o therefore_o for_o any_o man_n to_o say_v that_o he_o love_v god_n while_o he_o will_v contrary_a to_o his_o will_n or_o that_o his_o will_n be_v reconcile_v to_o god_n while_n he_o act_v contrary_a to_o his_o command_n be_v gross_a hypocrisy_n and_o deep_a dissimulation_n for_o as_o the_o love_n of_o god_n resolve_v necessary_o into_o a_o union_n of_o will_n with_o he_o so_o that_o union_n of_o will_n resolve_v necessary_o into_o obedience_n to_o his_o law_n 3._o if_o we_o love_v god_n that_o love_n will_v express_v itself_o in_o a_o solicitous_a care_n of_o avoid_v every_o thing_n that_o may_v displease_v or_o distaste_v he_o for_o the_o great_a ambition_n of_o love_n be_v to_o appear_v lovely_a and_o amiable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o its_o belove_a and_o that_o it_o may_v do_v so_o it_o do_v most_o studious_o avoid_v whatsoever_o may_v be_v displease_v or_o distasteful_a to_o it_o and_o most_o industrious_o endeavour_v to_o adorn_v itself_o with_o all_o those_o oblige_a grace_n that_o be_v apt_a to_o endear_v and_o recommend_v it_o and_o so_o if_o we_o love_v god_n we_o can_v but_o desire_v to_o be_v lovely_a in_o his_o eye_n and_o that_o desire_v if_o it_o be_v sincere_a and_o hearty_a must_v necessary_o engage_v we_o to_o a_o endeavour_n of_o acquire_v whatsoever_o be_v amiable_a and_o please_a and_o of_o avoid_v whatsoever_o be_v hateful_a and_o grievous_a to_o he_o but_o now_o virtue_n and_o true_a goodness_n be_v the_o only_a beauty_n that_o do_v endear_v we_o to_o god_n and_o render_v we_o lovely_a in_o his_o eye_n and_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n the_o only_a deformity_n for_o which_o he_o hate_v and_o abhor_v we_o for_o his_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v not_o regulate_v like_o we_o by_o the_o unaccountable_a impulse_n of_o a_o mutable_a fancy_n but_o by_o steady_a and_o eternal_a rule_n so_o that_o he_o can_v never_o love_v what_o he_o once_o hate_v nor_o hate_v what_o he_o once_o love_v for_o the_o immutability_n of_o god_n love_n and_o hatred_n consist_v not_o in_o this_o that_o he_o always_o love_v and_o hate_v the_o same_o person_n but_o that_o he_o always_o love_v and_o hate_v person_n for_o the_o same_o reason_n and_o motive_n and_o indeed_o that_o love_n be_v but_o a_o foolish_a fondness_n that_o hatred_n but_o a_o unreasonable_a antipathy_n that_o without_o any_o reasonable_a motive_n always_o determine_v on_o the_o same_o person_n and_o if_o god_n love_v and_o hate_v our_o person_n upon_o reasonable_a motive_n his_o love_n and_o hatred_n will_v be_v fickle_a and_o mutable_a if_o when_o those_o motive_n cease_v his_o love_n and_o hatred_n shall_v continue_v if_o he_o shall_v continue_v to_o love_v we_o when_o the_o reason_n be_v whole_o cease_v that_o first_o move_v he_o thereunto_o he_o must_v either_o love_v we_o for_o no_o reason_n which_o will_v be_v a_o foolish_a fondness_n or_o he_o must_v love_v we_o for_o contrary_a reason_n which_o will_v be_v fickleness_n and_o inconstancy_n and_o therefore_o when_o god_n cease_v to_o love_v and_o hate_v the_o same_o person_n when_o the_o reason_n of_o his_o love_a and_o hate_v they_o cease_v it_o proceed_v not_o from_o the_o inconstancy_n but_o the_o immutability_n of_o his_o love_n and_o hatred_n for_o though_o they_o may_v change_v their_o object_n yet_o they_o can_v never_o change_v their_o reason_n for_o the_o reason_n of_o god_n love_n and_o hatred_n be_v in_o the_o object_n who_o he_o love_v and_o hate_v and_o therefore_o if_o he_o change_v the_o object_n of_o his_o love_n and_o hatred_n and_o when_o they_o themselves_o be_v change_v if_o he_o love_v a_o person_n who_o he_o hate_v when_o that_o person_n be_v change_v from_o hateful_a to_o lovely_a or_o hate_v a_o person_n who_o he_o love_v when_o that_o person_n be_v change_v from_o lovely_a to_o hateful_a it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o change_v but_o the_o person_n who_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o love_n or_o his_o hatred_n for_o amid_o all_o change_n of_o object_n his_o love_n and_o hatred_n be_v eternal_o the_o same_o because_o they_o be_v eternal_o fix_v and_o determine_v to_o the_o same_o reason_n but_o now_o his_o love_n be_v natural_o found_v in_o likeness_n what_o can_v we_o suppose_v shall_v be_v the_o reason_n of_o god_n love_n or_o hatred_n to_o we_o but_o only_o our_o likeness_n or_o vnlikeness_n to_o himself_o for_o if_o we_o resemble_v he_o in_o that_o goodness_n and_o truth_n and_o purity_n and_o justice_n which_o be_v essential_a to_o his_o nature_n he_o must_v needs_o love_v we_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n because_o we_o partake_v of_o his_o nature_n and_o be_v ally_v to_o he_o by_o a_o similitude_n of_o temper_n and_o perfection_n but_o then_o when_o we_o be_v not_o only_o unlike_a but_o contrary_a to_o he_o when_o we_o be_v impure_a spiteful_a and_o malicious_a when_o we_o be_v false_a unrighteous_a and_o unreasonable_a he_o have_v a_o antipathy_n against_o we_o found_v in_o his_o very_a nature_n and_o he_o can_v no_o more_o love_v we_o whilst_o we_o be_v so_o contrary_o dispose_v to_o he_o than_o he_o can_v hate_v himself_o wherefore_o since_o there_o be_v nothing_o can_v render_v we_o lovely_a in_o god_n eye_n but_o only_o our_o resemble_v he_o in_o purity_n and_o goodness_n nothing_o can_v render_v we_o hateful_a offensive_a and_o distasteful_a to_o he_o but_o our_o be_v impure_a and_o wicked_a and_o unlike_o he_o it_o hence_o necessary_o follow_v that_o we_o can_v no_o otherwise_o render_v ourselves_o amiable_a to_o he_o no_o otherwise_o avoid_v offend_v and_o grieve_v he_o but_o only_o by_o keep_v his_o commandment_n for_o therein_o all_o those_o grace_n be_v enjoin_v wherein_o our_o resemblance_n of_o he_o consist_v and_o all_o those_o vice_n be_v forbid_v that_o be_v contrary_a to_o he_o and_o do_v deform_v we_o in_o his_o eye_n so_o that_o by_o do_v his_o will_n we_o imitate_v his_o nature_n and_o shall_v acquire_v such_o a_o godlike_a temper_n of_o mind_n as_o will_v render_v we_o more_o glorious_a and_o lovely_a in_o his_o esteem_n than_o if_o we_o be_v deck_v with_o star_n or_o clothe_v in_o a_o robe_n of_o sunbeam_n whereas_o on_o the_o contrary_a by_o disobey_v his_o will_n we_o contract_v such_o a_o vnlikeness_n and_o contrariety_n to_o he_o as_o render_v we_o more_o offensive_a to_o he_o than_o the_o most_o loathsome_a deformity_n in_o nature_n for_o in_o god_n eye_n there_o be_v nothing_o ugly_a but_o sin_n nothing_o amiable_a but_o virtue_n and_o true_a goodness_n wherefore_o since_o our_o love_n of_o god_n necessary_o include_v a_o earnest_a desire_n of_o render_v ourselves_o lovely_a and_o amiable_a in_o his_o esteem_n and_o since_o we_o have_v no_o other_o way_n to_o accomplish_v this_o desire_n but_o only_o by_o keep_v his_o commandment_n it_o hence_o necessary_o follow_v that_o we_o can_v sincere_o love_v he_o whilst_o we_o disobey_v he_o for_o with_o what_o confidence_n can_v we_o pretend_v to_o love_v he_o when_o it_o be_v indifferent_a to_o we_o whether_o we_o render_v ourselves_o lovely_a or_o loathsome_a to_o he_o when_o by_o disobey_v his_o will_n we_o wilful_o contract_v those_o deformity_n which_o we_o know_v he_o abhor_v and_o which_o be_v more_o odious_a in_o his_o eye_n than_o any_o of_o the_o most_o loathsome_a spectacle_n in_o nature_n be_v it_o possible_a that_o true_a love_n shall_v consist_v with_o take_v pleasure_n in_o the_o only_a thing_n that_o can_v grieve_v and_o offend_v its_o object_n or_o be_v there_o ever_o such_o lover_n hear_v of_o that_o affect_v the_o deformity_n that_o be_v most_o hateful_a to_o the_o belove_a no_o no_o he_o that_o hearty_o love_v must_v desire_v to_o be_v belove_v and_o he_o that_o desire_v to_o be_v belove_v must_v desire_v to_o be_v lovely_a wherefore_o since_o nothing_o be_v lovely_a in_o god_n eye_n but_o what_o be_v like_o god_n and_o we_o can_v be_v like_o he_o unless_o we_o keep_v his_o
commandment_n what_o a_o immodesty_n be_v it_o in_o we_o to_o pretend_v to_o love_v he_o while_o we_o choose_v to_o disobey_v he_o 4._o and_o last_o if_o we_o love_v god_n sincere_o we_o shall_v be_v ready_a cheerful_o to_o undergo_v any_o thing_n for_o his_o sake_n be_v it_o never_o so_o hard_a and_o difficult_a for_o love_n be_v a_o bold_a and_o vigorous_a passion_n it_o make_v weak_a thing_n strong_a and_o turn_v coward_n into_o hero_n and_o warm_v and_o animate_v the_o heart_n with_o such_o a_o generous_a fire_n as_o disdain_v all_o opposition_n and_o courageous_o outbrave_a the_o great_a danger_n and_o difficulty_n for_o he_o that_o love_v hearty_o will_v do_v any_o thing_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o his_o belove_a and_o then_o measure_v his_o strength_n by_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o desire_n he_o think_v himself_o able_a to_o do_v whatsoever_o he_o will_n so_o strong_o do_v this_o passion_n transport_v nature_n beyond_o the_o bound_n of_o its_o ability_n inspire_v it_o with_o such_o force_n and_o vigour_n as_o that_o scarce_o any_o thing_n be_v able_a to_o withstand_v it_o if_o therefore_o we_o love_v god_n sincere_o and_o hearty_o our_o love_n must_v necessary_o resolve_v into_o obedience_n to_o his_o will_n be_v it_o never_o so_o hard_a and_o difficult_a for_o our_o love_n will_v so_o enliven_v and_o animate_v our_o endeavour_n of_o serve_v he_o and_o carry_v we_o with_o such_o spirit_n and_o alacrity_n through_o all_o the_o weary_a stage_n of_o our_o duty_n that_o it_o will_v be_v our_o meat_n and_o drink_n to_o do_v his_o will_n and_o there_o be_v no_o instance_n of_o obedience_n be_v it_o never_o so_o hard_a and_o difficult_a but_o our_o love_n will_v smother_v and_o render_v it_o not_o only_o easy_a but_o delightful_a for_o what_o i_o do_v for_o he_o who_o i_o love_v i_o do_v for_o myself_o his_o pleasure_n be_v i_o and_o our_o will_n and_o end_n and_o interest_n be_v involve_v in_o one_o another_o so_o that_o if_o my_o love_n be_v in_o any_o measure_n intense_a and_o cordial_a i_o shall_v do_v his_o pleasure_n and_o perform_v his_o will_n with_o the_o same_o complacency_n and_o delight_n as_o if_o i_o be_v do_v my_o own_o and_o whatsoever_o difficulty_n i_o meet_v with_o in_o serve_v he_o i_o shall_v encounter_v they_o with_o joy_n that_o i_o be_o furnish_v with_o opportunity_n of_o express_v the_o zeal_n and_o sincerity_n of_o my_o love_n to_o he_o so_o that_o to_o pretend_v to_o love_n god_n and_o yet_o to_o boggle_v at_o the_o difficulty_n of_o obey_v he_o be_v the_o most_o shameful_a hypocrisy_n in_o nature_n for_o if_o we_o do_v as_o high_o love_v he_o as_o we_o pretend_v our_o will_n will_v be_v so_o swallow_v up_o in_o he_o that_o it_o will_v be_v our_o joy_n and_o recreation_n to_o serve_v he_o and_o the_o very_a thought_n that_o we_o be_v do_v what_o be_v please_v and_o grateful_a to_o he_o will_v level_v all_o the_o mountain_n of_o difficulty_n in_o our_o way_n and_o render_v they_o not_o only_o accessible_a but_o easy_a he_o therefore_o that_o stumble_v at_o every_o straw_n and_o startle_v at_o every_o difficulty_n in_o religion_n must_v be_v a_o notorious_a hypocrite_n if_o he_o pretend_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n for_o where_o true_a love_n be_v difficulty_n be_v so_o far_o from_o daunt_v it_o that_o that_o animate_v and_o encourage_v it_o and_o instead_o of_o blunt_v its_o activity_n whet_v and_o render_v it_o more_o keen_a and_o vigorous_a because_o the_o great_a the_o difficulty_n be_v the_o great_a be_v its_o opportunity_n of_o manifest_v its_o own_o sincerity_n and_o thereby_o of_o recommend_v itself_o to_o it_o be_v belove_v the_o joy_n of_o which_o not_o only_o balance_n but_o endear_v all_o its_o pain_n and_o trouble_v hence_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o there_o be_v no_o fear_n in_o love_n and_o that_o perfect_a love_n cast_v out_o fear_n 1_o john_n four_o 18_o it_o inspire_v we_o with_o such_o bravery_n and_o courage_n that_o there_o be_v no_o difficulty_n in_o our_o obedience_n to_o he_o who_o we_o love_v that_o can_v daunt_v or_o terrify_v we_o wherefore_o since_o this_o be_v a_o necessary_a property_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o make_v we_o ready_a to_o undergo_v any_o thing_n for_o his_o sake_n this_o also_o must_v necessary_o resolve_v into_o the_o keep_n his_o commandment_n for_o if_o we_o be_v willing_a to_o do_v any_o thing_n for_o god_n we_o shall_v sure_o be_v willing_a to_o obey_v he_o and_o though_o our_o obedience_n in_o some_o instance_n may_v be_v difficult_a yet_o our_o love_n if_o it_o be_v real_a will_v conquer_v its_o way_n through_o they_o all_o and_o thus_o you_o see_v how_o all_o the_o essential_a property_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n do_v final_o resolve_v into_o obedience_n from_o whence_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o wheresoever_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v it_o will_v most_o certain_o prove_v a_o principle_n of_o obedience_n ii_o i_o proceed_v now_o to_o the_o second_o head_n of_o discourse_n which_o be_v to_o show_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v itself_o the_o most_o perfect_a principle_n of_o obedience_n not_o that_o i_o think_v all_o other_o principle_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n bad_a for_o god_n himself_o have_v propose_v other_o principle_n of_o action_n to_o we_o beside_o this_o of_o love_n he_o have_v denounce_v his_o fearful_a threaten_n against_o we_o to_o alarm_n our_o fear_n that_o by_o that_o we_o may_v be_v move_v to_o obey_v he_o and_o propound_v his_o glorious_a promise_n to_o we_o to_o excite_v our_o hope_n that_o that_o may_v be_v a_o spring_n and_o principle_n of_o obedience_n in_o we_o and_o certain_o that_o can_v be_v no_o bad_a principle_n which_o be_v excite_v in_o we_o by_o divine_a motive_n but_o yet_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o there_o be_v no_o principle_n whatsoever_o can_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n that_o be_v quite_o separate_v from_o love_n to_o he_o for_o that_o which_o make_v it_o acceptable_a be_v this_o that_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o universal_a obedience_n but_o now_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v the_o great_a instance_n of_o our_o obedience_n that_o can_v be_v no_o principle_n of_o universal_a obedience_n that_o be_v whole_o separate_v from_o it_o it_o be_v true_a the_o religion_n of_o most_o man_n begin_v upon_o a_o principle_n either_o of_o hope_n or_o fear_v and_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o they_o be_v very_o good_a beginner_n but_o yet_o till_o by_o these_o we_o be_v induce_v to_o love_n god_n as_o well_o as_o to_o practice_v all_o other_o duty_n we_o be_v by_o no_o mean_n please_v and_o acceptable_a to_o he_o so_o that_o though_o the_o fear_n of_o punishment_n and_o the_o hope_n of_o reward_n be_v good_a ingredient_n in_o the_o principle_n of_o our_o obedience_n yet_o till_o they_o have_v some_o intermixture_n of_o love_n with_o they_o they_o can_v make_v no_o claim_n to_o the_o divine_a acceptation_n there_o may_v be_v indeed_o and_o at_o first_o there_o general_o be_v much_o less_o of_o love_n in_o this_o principle_n of_o obedience_n than_o of_o hope_n and_o fear_v whilst_o yet_o the_o whole_a composition_n be_v very_o acceptable_a to_o god_n for_o the_o low_a degree_n of_o cordial_a love_n intermix_v with_o our_o hope_n and_o fear_v will_v leaven_n and_o consecrate_v they_o into_o a_o acceptable_a principle_n of_o obedience_n but_o still_o the_o less_o love_n there_o be_v in_o it_o the_o more_o weak_a and_o languid_a and_o imperfect_a it_o be_v and_o in_o all_o its_o progress_n towards_o perfection_n its_o maturity_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v by_o the_o degree_n of_o love_n that_o be_v in_o it_o and_o till_o our_o love_n be_v arrive_v unto_o that_o degree_n of_o ardency_n as_o to_o become_v the_o predominant_a motive_n and_o master-ingredient_n in_o it_o our_o state_n in_o goodness_n be_v very_o slow_a and_o imperfect_a so_o that_o in_o short_a the_o principle_n of_o our_o obedience_n be_v more_o and_o more_o perfect_a the_o more_o of_o love_n there_o be_v in_o it_o and_o the_o less_o of_o hope_n and_o fear_n and_o when_o hope_n and_o fear_n be_v all_o swallow_v up_o in_o love_n and_o that_o be_v the_o sole_a spring_n of_o action_n within_o we_o than_o it_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o soul_n that_o act_n and_o animate_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o just_a man_n make_v perfect_a but_o to_o convince_v you_o how_o much_o our_o obedience_n be_v perfect_v by_o love_n i_o shall_v brief_o give_v you_o these_o follow_a instance_n of_o it_o 1._o it_o render_v our_o obedience_n universal_a and_o unconfined_a 2._o sprightly_a and_o cheerful_a 3._o natural_a and_o easy_a 4._o constant_n and_o steady_a 1._o love_n render_v our_o obedience_n universal_a and_o unconfined_a when_o man_n be_v act_v only_o by_o a_o principle_n of_o fear_n
they_o must_v be_v very_o narrow_a and_o stingy_a in_o their_o religion_n for_o they_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o do_v no_o more_o than_o just_a what_o be_v necessary_a to_o quiet_v their_o fear_n and_o calm_a their_o conscience_n and_o because_o they_o do_v not_o like_o what_o they_o do_v but_o be_v mere_o force_v upon_o it_o by_o the_o terror_n and_o anguish_n of_o their_o own_o mind_n therefore_o if_o they_o can_v they_o will_v find_v some_o way_n to_o pacify_v their_o conscience_n without_o do_v it_o or_o at_o least_o with_o do_v as_o little_a as_o may_v be_v or_o with_o do_v that_o only_a which_o they_o like_v best_a and_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o their_o vitiate_a temper_n thus_o person_n of_o sour_a and_o morose_a nature_n when_o they_o be_v act_v mere_o by_o the_o terror_n of_o their_o conscience_n common_o betake_v themselves_o to_o some_o little_a affect_a singularity_n and_o severity_n in_o religion_n they_o will_v put_v on_o some_o distinguish_a garb_n and_o tip_v their_o tongue_n with_o some_o peculiar_a phrase_n and_o screw_v their_o face_n into_o a_o most_o devout_a and_o mortify_a figure_n they_o will_v condemn_v themselves_o to_o a_o state_n of_o silence_n and_o retire_v from_o all_o the_o pleasure_n and_o most_o innocent_a festivity_n of_o conversation_n they_o will_v frown_v all_o good_a humour_n out_o of_o their_o house_n and_o will_v not_o endure_v so_o much_o as_o a_o smile_n in_o their_o family_n especial_o on_o the_o lord's-day_n and_o take_v a_o world_n of_o care_n and_o pain_n to_o moap_v their_o child_n into_o unsociable_a statue_n and_o to_o train_v they_o up_o in_o the_o religion_n of_o pensive_a look_n and_o solemn_a face_n and_o ejaculate_v eye_n for_o this_o be_v such_o a_o reformation_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o their_o sour_a and_o surly_a nature_n and_o therefore_o with_o this_o they_o will_v seek_v to_o bribe_v their_o conscience_n to_o connive_v at_o all_o their_o black_a and_o devilish_a inclination_n thus_o also_o it_o be_v usual_a for_o slanderer_n and_o backbiter_n contentious_a and_o censorious_a person_n when_o they_o be_v under_o a_o agony_n of_o conscience_n to_o listen_v themselves_o into_o some_o sect_n or_o party_n where_o under_o a_o pretence_n of_o be_v the_o only_a people_n of_o god_n they_o may_v consecrate_v their_o most_o unhallowed_a passion_n and_o rail_v and_o backbite_v with_o zeal_n and_o devotion_n where_o they_o may_v spit_v all_o their_o venom_n in_o spiritual_a gossip_n and_o free_o employ_v the_o talon_n of_o their_o ill-nature_n in_o damn_v and_o censure_v those_o they_o dissent_v from_o for_o this_o be_v such_o a_o conversion_n as_o best_o agree_v with_o their_o cankerous_a inclination_n so_o that_o if_o they_o can_v but_o cheat_v their_o conscience_n with_o it_o that_o and_o their_o belove_a lust_n will_v be_v very_o well_o reconcile_v thus_o also_o the_o covetous_a and_o gripe_a oppressor_n when_o he_o can_v otherwise_o still_o the_o cry_v of_o his_o conscience_n will_v betake_v himself_o to_o some_o of_o the_o cheap_a exercise_n of_o religion_n he_o will_v fast_o and_o pray_v hear_v sermon_n and_o receive_v sacrament_n because_o all_o these_o thing_n he_o can_v do_v without_o entrench_v upon_o his_o vice_n he_o can_v say_v his_o prayer_n for_o nothing_o and_o save_v money_n by_o keep_v a_o fast_a and_o eat_v and_o drink_v at_o the_o sacrament_n gratis_o all_o this_o be_v so_o cheap_a a_o religion_n that_o it_o cost_v he_o nothing_o to_o maintain_v it_o and_o so_o his_o covetous_a mind_n have_v no_o reason_n to_o grudge_v at_o it_o so_o that_o if_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v but_o satisfy_v with_o this_o his_o lust_n and_o that_o may_v shake_v hand_n and_o be_v friend_n and_o to_o name_v no_o more_o thus_o when_o the_o intemperate_a and_o lascivious_a person_n be_v dog_v by_o the_o fear_n of_o his_o guilty_a mind_n it_o be_v usual_a for_o he_o to_o sigh_v and_o mourn_v and_o make_v woeful_a confession_n of_o his_o sin_n and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v so_o to_o endeavour_v to_o persuade_v himself_o that_o this_o be_v true_a repentance_n which_o if_o he_o can_v do_v he_o may_v sin_v on_o secure_o provide_v he_o do_v but_o perpetual_o keep_v himself_o in_o this_o circle_n of_o repent_v and_o sin_v and_o sin_v and_o repent_v but_o if_o he_o can_v so_o cheat_v himself_o he_o will_v next_o fly_v to_o the_o sanctuary_n of_o a_o partial_a reformation_n and_o disband_v the_o vice_n he_o can_v best_o spare_v that_o so_o he_o may_v keep_v his_o more_o belove_a one_o in_o pay_n hope_v that_o by_o a_o sacrifice_n of_o some_o few_o of_o his_o sin_n he_o may_v make_v a_o atonement_n for_o all_o the_o rest_n thus_o when_o man_n be_v only_o act_v by_o their_o fear_n they_o will_v find_v some_o way_n or_o other_o to_o contract_v their_o religion_n into_o so_o narrow_a a_o compass_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v sure_a not_o to_o entrench_v too_o far_o upon_o the_o liberty_n of_o their_o lusts._n for_o he_o that_o do_v a_o thing_n out_o of_o fear_n be_v averse_a to_o the_o do_v it_o and_o that_o aversation_n will_v so_o stint_v and_o limit_v he_o that_o he_o will_v contrive_v all_o way_n to_o do_v as_o little_a as_o he_o can_v and_o still_o the_o less_o he_o be_v force_v to_o do_v the_o better_a he_o will_v be_v please_v but_o love_n be_v that_o great_a soul_n that_o act_n and_o animate_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o religion_n and_o equal_o diffuse_v its_o influence_n through_o every_o part_n and_o member_n of_o it_o for_o the_o will_n of_o the_o belove_a be_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lover_n and_o every_o thing_n please_v he_o that_o be_v please_v to_o he_o who_o he_o love_v so_o that_o if_o we_o love_v god_n we_o shall_v do_v what_o he_o command_v because_o it_o be_v his_o will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o that_o reason_n extend_v equal_o to_o all_o as_o well_o as_o to_o any_o instance_n of_o obedience_n and_o therefore_o if_o the_o motive_n of_o our_o obedience_n be_v this_o that_o it_o be_v god_n will_n and_o pleasure_n we_o must_v necessary_o obey_v he_o so_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v in_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v so_o for_o if_o we_o love_v god_n there_o will_v be_v such_o a_o consent_n and_o harmony_n between_o his_o will_n and_o we_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v best_o please_v with_o what_o please_v he_o and_o be_v so_o our_o obedience_n will_v be_v no_o long_o limit_v by_o any_o particular_a like_v or_o dislike_v of_o our_o own_o which_o will_v then_o all_o vail_n and_o prostrate_v themselves_o to_o god_n sovereign_a pleasure_n and_o so_o there_o will_v be_v nothing_o but_o that_o to_o set_v limit_n and_o bound_n to_o our_o obedience_n so_o that_o then_o we_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o contrive_v how_o to_o escape_v do_v his_o will_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v ready_a to_o court_v all_o opportunity_n of_o please_v he_o and_o be_v so_o passionate_o desirous_a of_o do_v what_o we_o think_v be_v grateful_a to_o he_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o perform_v what_o he_o require_v by_o explicit_a command_n but_o be_v ready_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o most_o secret_a notice_n and_o intimation_n of_o his_o pleasure_n and_o to_o do_v whatsoever_o we_o think_v will_v please_v he_o when_o it_o be_v perform_v whether_o it_o be_v command_v or_o no._n 2._o love_n render_v our_o obedience_n sprightly_a and_o vigorous_a for_o it_o be_v certain_a there_o be_v no_o passion_n in_o humane_a nature_n so_o active_a and_o vigorous_a as_o that_o of_o love_n for_o in_o this_o all_o the_o other_o passion_n be_v seat_v as_o in_o their_o common_a root_n and_o principle_n and_o like_v so_o many_o stream_n though_o they_o run_v several_a way_n and_o in_o different_a channel_n yet_o do_v they_o all_o issue_n out_o of_o one_o common_a spring_n and_o that_o be_v love_n for_o the_o love_n of_o ourselves_o be_v the_o parent_n of_o all_o our_o passion_n it_o be_v that_o which_o make_v we_o hate_v what_o be_v contrary_a to_o we_o and_o desire_n and_o hope_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v pleasant_a and_o agreeable_a and_o when_o we_o love_v any_o particular_a object_n and_o our_o will_n be_v pleas_o affect_v with_o the_o beauty_n of_o it_o if_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o be_v possible_a for_o we_o to_o enjoy_v that_o excite_v in_o we_o a_o desire_n of_o enjoyment_n if_o together_o with_o the_o possibility_n there_o be_v a_o probability_n of_o enjoy_v it_o that_o excite_v hope_n and_o expectation_n but_o if_o there_o be_v not_o that_o excite_v fear_n and_o this_o hope_n and_o fear_v be_v exalt_v to_o their_o high_a degree_n turn_v into_o confidence_n and_o desperation_n if_o any_o difficulty_n oppose_v itself_o to_o our_o enjoyment_n that_o excite_v choler_n and_o courage_n and_o boldness_n and_o if_o we_o surmount_v those_o difficulty_n that_o hinder_v our_o enjoyment_n that_o excite_v joy_n and_o
exultation_n of_o mind_n thus_o love_n you_o see_v as_o soon_o as_o it_o be_v take_v with_o the_o beauty_n of_o a_o object_n immediate_o kindle_v its_o desire_n excite_v its_o hope_n and_o fear_v and_o carry_v the_o fire_n into_o all_o the_o passion_n which_o hold_v of_o its_o empire_n so_o that_o have_v the_o unite_a force_n of_o all_o the_o other_o passion_n at_o its_o beck_n and_o command_n its_o self_n must_v needs_o be_v extreme_o potent_a and_o vigorous_a and_o consequent_o when_o it_o be_v terminate_v upon_o god_n and_o become_v the_o reign_a principle_n of_o our_o obedience_n to_o he_o there_o be_v no_o passion_n in_o our_o nature_n can_v have_v that_o influence_n upon_o we_o to_o make_v we_o active_a and_o vigorous_a in_o the_o do_n of_o his_o will_n as_o this_o may_v reasonable_o be_v suppose_v to_o have_v because_o when_o we_o be_v under_o the_o command_n of_o love_n that_o have_v in_o it_o the_o force_n of_o all_o our_o other_o passion_n must_v necessary_o move_v and_o act_v we_o with_o all_o their_o unite_a influence_n and_o when_o the_o separate_a force_n of_o all_o our_o passion_n like_v so_o many_o single_a thread_n be_v twist_v into_o one_o cord_n with_o what_o a_o potent_a i_o have_v almost_o say_v omnipotent_a vigour_n must_v they_o draw_v and_o attract_v we_o when_o our_o love_n of_o god_n shall_v all_o at_o once_o awaken_v in_o we_o the_o desire_n and_o hope_n of_o enjoy_v he_o the_o fear_n and_o displeasure_n of_o lose_v he_o the_o resolution_n and_o courage_n to_o charge_n through_o every_o difficulty_n that_o oppose_v our_o fruition_n of_o he_o and_o our_o obedience_n shall_v be_v all_o at_o once_o inform_v and_o animate_v with_o the_o unite_a force_n of_o all_o those_o mighty_a passion_n how_o active_a and_o vigorous_a must_v it_o need_v be_v for_o the_o wise_a man_n tell_v we_o that_o love_n be_v as_o strong_a as_o death_n cant._n viij_o 6_o that_o it_o be_v a_o equal_a match_n for_o the_o all-conquering_a king_n of_o terror_n to_o who_o power_n the_o mighty_a thing_n do_v stoop_v and_o indeed_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v strong_a when_o it_o have_v all_o the_o force_n of_o humane_a nature_n in_o it_o and_o be_v wing_v with_o the_o unite_a vigour_n of_o so_o many_o strong_a and_o active_a affection_n hence_o the_o apostle_n attribute_n a_o constrain_a virtue_n to_o it_o 2_o cor._n v_o 14_o for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n constrain_v we_o it_o sweet_o tyrannise_v over_o all_o our_o faculty_n and_o by_o a_o willing_a violence_n force_n and_o captivate_v we_o into_o obedience_n but_o when_o a_o man_n be_v act_v only_o by_o a_o principle_n of_o fear_n he_o must_v needs_o drive_v on_o heavy_o in_o the_o course_n of_o his_o obedience_n because_o what_o a_o man_n do_v out_o of_o fear_n he_o will_v not_o do_v so_o that_o he_o act_n with_o aversation_n and_o move_v all_o along_o counter_a to_o his_o own_o inclination_n and_o have_v not_o the_o joint_a concurrence_n of_o his_o other_o affection_n as_o he_o have_v when_o he_o act_v out_o of_o love_n and_o consequent_o his_o passion_n thwart_v and_o cross_v one_o another_o do_v retard_v and_o hinder_v each_o other_o motion_n so_o that_o though_o the_o motion_n of_o fear_n do_v final_o prevail_v yet_o it_o be_v so_o break_a and_o weaken_v by_o the_o counter-motion_n of_o inclination_n that_o it_o can_v act_v we_o with_o that_o spriteliness_n and_o vigour_n as_o otherwise_o it_o will_v do_v for_o whilst_o our_o fear_n give_v wing_n to_o we_o our_o inclination_n hang_v a_o clog_n at_o our_o heel_n which_o weary_v those_o wing_n and_o slacken_v and_o retard_v their_o flight_n whereas_o on_o the_o contrary_a when_o we_o be_v act_v by_o love_n there_o be_v no_o countermotion_n within_o to_o let_v and_o hinder_v we_o but_o all_o our_o passion_n unite_v and_o conspire_v and_o like_o the_o inferior_a orb_n of_o heaven_n move_v harmonious_o with_o love_n the_o first_o great-mover_n because_o there_o be_v nothing_o within_o to_o check_v or_o allay_v it_o and_o so_o we_o move_v on_o free_o secundo_fw-la flumine_fw-la with_o the_o full_a and_o uninterrupted_a current_n of_o our_o nature_n so_o that_o love_n you_o see_v be_v a_o most_o active_a and_o vigorous_a soul_n it_o make_v we_o all_o life_n and_o spirit_n and_o wing_n and_o animate_v our_o religion_n with_o such_o a_o sprightly_a flame_n as_o nothing_o be_v able_a to_o control_v or_o suppress_v if_o therefore_o we_o be_v but_o once_o thorough_o inform_v with_o the_o love_n of_o god_n this_o will_v so_o enliven_v we_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o religion_n will_v be_v too_o hard_a for_o we_o this_o will_v turn_v toil_n into_o recreation_n and_o difficulty_n into_o pleasure_n and_o make_v we_o so_o nimble_a and_o agile_a in_o our_o obedience_n that_o we_o shall_v run_v the_o way_n of_o god_n commandment_n as_o david_n say_v he_o will_v do_v when_o god_n shall_v enlarge_v his_o heart_n with_o the_o love_n of_o he_o psal._n cxix_o 32_o and_o whereas_o languid_a soul_n enfeeble_v with_o the_o want_n of_o this_o generous_a passion_n find_v impossibility_n and_o complain_v of_o impotency_n and_o make_v a_o stop_n we_o shall_v go_v on_o and_o conquer_v with_o a_o invincible_a power_n thus_o love_n you_o see_v be_v the_o most_o sprightly_a and_o vigorous_a principle_n of_o obedience_n 3._o love_n render_v our_o obedience_n free_a and_o cheerful_a and_o voluntary_a he_o who_o obey_v god_n only_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o fear_n obey_v he_o against_o his_o will_n he_o take_v down_o his_o duty_n as_o sick_a man_n do_v physic_n with_o loathe_v and_o reluctancy_n and_o only_o submit_v to_o it_o as_o a_o more_o tolerable_a penance_n than_o the_o present_a horror_n that_o he_o feel_v and_o the_o after-damnation_n that_o he_o fear_v he_o only_o choose_v it_o as_o the_o least_o of_o two_o evil_n that_o be_v as_o a_o thing_n that_o he_o hate_v though_o not_o in_o so_o great_a a_o degree_n as_o he_o do_v those_o great_a evil_n which_o he_o know_v be_v inseparable_a to_o his_o not_o choose_v it_o and_o while_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o he_o it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v obey_v with_o any_o freedom_n or_o alacrity_n for_o how_o can_v a_o man_n cheerful_o comply_v with_o what_o he_o hate_v or_o become_v a_o volunteer_n to_o that_o which_o be_v his_o torment_n he_o may_v labour_v indeed_o at_o his_o duty_n and_o tug_v hard_a like_o a_o galleyslave_n at_o the_o oar_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v sore_o against_o his_o will_n he_o will_v fain_o be_v at_o his_o lust_n again_o but_o that_o he_o be_v chain_v to_o his_o duty_n and_o keep_v in_o awe_n by_o that_o flame_a scourge_n that_o be_v hold_v over_o he_o so_o that_o he_o be_v perfect_o press_v to_o serve_v god_n and_o like_o a_o unwilling_a victim_n be_v drag_v to_o his_o altar_n now_o though_o this_o may_v be_v a_o good_a beginning_n of_o religion_n which_o through_o the_o passion_n of_o fear_n do_v usual_o make_v its_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o soul_n yet_o if_o it_o stop_v here_o and_o do_v not_o pass_v forward_o into_o love_n it_o be_v but_o half_a way_n and_o will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o obtain_v a_o entire_a possession_n for_o whilst_o we_o obey_v god_n mere_o out_o of_o fear_n we_o want_v one_o half_a of_o our_o religion_n and_o that_o be_v love_n which_o be_v that_o half_n too_o wherein_o the_o subjection_n of_o our_o soul_n to_o god_n consist_v for_o while_o we_o only_o fear_v he_o that_o may_v constrain_v we_o to_o a_o eternal_a homage_n and_o obedience_n but_o it_o be_v love_n alone_o that_o can_v enthrone_v he_o in_o our_o will_n and_o make_v we_o volunteer_n in_o his_o service_n but_o when_o once_o this_o divine_a fire_n be_v enkindle_v within_o our_o breast_n it_o will_v by_o degree_n melt_v away_o all_o our_o secret_a repugnancy_n and_o aversation_n to_o our_o duty_n and_o so_o mould_n and_o temper_v our_o will_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o at_o last_o our_o obedience_n will_v be_v no_o long_o a_o burden_n to_o we_o but_o we_o shall_v run_v to_o our_o duty_n with_o the_o same_o complacency_n and_o delight_n as_o we_o do_v now_o to_o our_o pleasure_n and_o recreation_n and_o do_v the_o will_n of_o our_o father_n upon_o earth_n as_o it_o be_v do_v by_o our_o brethren_n in_o heaven_n who_o be_v all_o inflame_a with_o love_n to_o he_o do_v find_v a_o heaven_n of_o joy_n in_o serve_v and_o adore_v he_o for_o if_o we_o do_v hearty_o love_n god_n it_o be_v impossible_a but_o we_o shall_v feel_v a_o pleasure_n in_o please_v he_o our_o will_n will_v so_o sympathize_v with_o he_o that_o we_o shall_v feel_v his_o joy_n and_o taste_v his_o pleasure_n and_o those_o thing_n only_o will_v be_v irksome_a and_o ungrateful_a to_o we_o which_o we_o know_v do_v grieve_v and_o distaste_v he_o for_o love_n turn_v
love_v what_o he_o love_v and_o hate_v what_o he_o hate_v these_o be_v much_o more_o certain_a indication_n of_o our_o love_n to_o he_o than_o the_o most_o ravish_a effect_n of_o sensitive_a passion_n for_o though_o our_o heart_n be_v melt_v into_o a_o transport_n and_o fondness_n to_o he_o yet_o so_o long_o as_o our_o heart_n and_o our_o practice_n be_v incomplyant_a to_o his_o will_n and_o law_n he_o will_v look_v upon_o we_o and_o deal_v with_o we_o as_o hypocrite_n and_o enemy_n and_o esteem_v all_o our_o sensitive_a fondness_n towards_o he_o but_o as_o the_o base_a flattery_n of_o judas_n who_o kiss_v he_o and_o then_o betray_v he_o 3_o lie_n hence_o i_o infer_v what_o the_o great_a reason_n be_v why_o god_n do_v so_o strict_o enjoin_v we_o to_o love_v he_o for_o there_o be_v no_o command_n whatsoever_o so_o often_o repeat_v in_o scripture_n as_o this_o of_o love_a god_n thou_o shall_v love_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n with_o all_o thy_o heart_n and_o with_o all_o thy_o soul_n what_o do_v the_o lord_n thy_o god_n require_v of_o thou_o but_o to_o love_v he_o o_o love_v the_o lord_n all_o you_o his_o saint_n take_v heed_n therefore_o to_o yourselves_o that_o you_o love_v the_o lord_n your_o god_n these_o and_o a_o world_n of_o other_o reiterated_a injunction_n of_o love_n do_v we_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o sacred_a page_n but_o how_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v do_v god_n need_v our_o love_n that_o he_o so_o importunate_o call_v for_o it_o or_o do_v it_o contribute_v any_o thing_n to_o his_o happiness_n to_o see_v himself_o belove_v by_o all_o this_o great_a world_n of_o being_n which_o he_o have_v make_v and_o which_o he_o have_v endue_v with_o the_o capacity_n of_o love_v he_o no_o no_o though_o doubtless_o the_o best_a thing_n we_o can_v give_v he_o be_v our_o love_n yet_o he_o be_v too_o happy_a in_o himself_o to_o need_v any_o thing_n of_o we_o for_o he_o be_v a_o bottomless_a fountain_n of_o happiness_n circumscribe_v all_o those_o bliss_n that_o he_o can_v need_v or_o desire_v within_o the_o boundless_a circle_n of_o his_o own_o be_v or_o do_v he_o court_v our_o love_n mere_o that_o he_o may_v glory_v in_o the_o number_n of_o his_o lover_n and_o pride_n himself_o in_o those_o infinite_a flame_n that_o concentre_v in_o he_o no_o nor_o this_o neither_o for_o he_o be_v so_o infinite_o glorious_a in_o himself_o that_o no_o act_n of_o we_o can_v either_o add_v to_o or_o subtract_v from_o his_o glory_n which_o amid_o all_o the_o hallelujah_n of_o angel_n and_o saint_n and_o all_o the_o blasphemy_n of_o man_n and_o devil_n shine_v with_o the_o same_o unvaried_a splendour_n and_o brightness_n and_o be_v neither_o diminish_v by_o our_o hatred_n nor_o improve_v by_o our_o love_n well_o then_o if_o neither_o of_o these_o be_v the_o reason_n what_o be_v it_o it_o be_v true_a the_o thing_n be_v infinite_o reasonable_a in_o itself_o that_o he_o who_o be_v so_o lovely_a in_o himself_o shall_v be_v belove_v and_o that_o all_o our_o affection_n shall_v be_v unite_v in_o he_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o our_o being_n and_o well-being_n and_o god_n who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o our_o reasonable_a faculty_n can_v but_o desire_v that_o we_o shall_v act_v reasonable_o and_o love_v that_o best_a which_o best_o deserve_v to_o be_v belove_v but_o be_v there_o not_o some_o particular_a end_n for_o which_o god_n do_v so_o earnest_o crave_v and_o exact_v our_o love_n yes_o doubtless_o there_o be_v and_o such_o as_o be_v every_o way_n worthy_a of_o he_o that_o have_v propose_v it_o for_o it_o can_v be_v suppose_v that_o a_o be_v infinite_o wise_a shall_v ever_o act_v without_o end_n or_o aim_n but_o god_n be_v infinite_o happy_a can_v be_v suppose_v to_o propose_v any_o end_n for_o his_o own_o advantage_n because_o that_o will_v imply_v that_o he_o want_v or_o desire_v some_o good_a that_o he_o have_v not_o and_o consequent_o that_o he_o be_v not_o happy_a but_o then_o he_o be_v infinite_o good_a as_o well_o as_o happy_a we_o can_v imagine_v what_o other_o end_v he_o shall_v have_v of_o his_o action_n but_o only_o to_o do_v good_a to_o his_o creature_n and_o promote_v their_o happiness_n and_o consequent_o the_o end_n and_o reason_n for_o which_o he_o do_v so_o importunate_o demand_v our_o love_n be_v not_o to_o add_v any_o thing_n to_o himself_o but_o to_o do_v good_a to_o we_o for_o our_o goodness_n extend_v not_o to_o god_n as_o the_o psalmist_n tell_v we_o xuj_o 2_o and_o though_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v a_o very_a great_a perfection_n to_o our_o nature_n yet_o job_n tell_v we_o that_o it_o be_v no_o gain_n at_o all_o to_o god_n that_o we_o make_v our_o way_n perfect_a job_n xxii_o 3_o but_o though_o it_o be_v none_o to_o god_n yet_o it_o be_v a_o infinite_a gain_n to_o ourselves_o and_o that_o be_v the_o end_n and_o reason_n for_o which_o he_o require_v it_o for_o as_o i_o have_v already_o show_v you_o of_o all_o the_o principle_n of_o our_o obedience_n to_o god_n love_n be_v the_o most_o pregnant_a and_o fruitful_a now_o god_n require_v we_o to_o obey_v he_o for_o our_o own_o good_a he_o have_v enjoin_v we_o nothing_o but_o what_o tend_v to_o the_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o he_o require_v we_o to_o love_v he_o that_o so_o we_o may_v the_o more_o entire_o and_o perfect_o obey_v he_o and_o thereby_o more_o speedy_o arrive_v to_o that_o happiness_n for_o which_o his_o infinite_a goodness_n have_v design_v we_o so_o that_o all_o the_o profit_n both_o of_o our_o love_n and_o obedience_n accrue_v to_o ourselves_o it_o be_v we_o only_o that_o reap_v the_o fruit_n of_o our_o own_o virtue_n we_o only_o that_o be_v exalt_v by_o those_o homage_n that_o we_o render_v to_o our_o maker_n for_o he_o be_v as_o happy_a without_o our_o love_n as_o he_o be_v with_o it_o and_o all_o those_o unite_a flame_n of_o angel_n and_o saint_n that_o meet_v and_o concentre_v in_o he_o add_v not_o one_o spark_n to_o the_o infinite_a element_n of_o his_o happiness_n which_o be_v not_o infinite_a can_v it_o admit_v of_o increase_n but_o the_o lover_n themselves_o be_v glorify_v by_o their_o love_n and_o because_o they_o be_v so_o god_n require_v and_o exact_v it_o for_o our_o love_n be_v the_o great_a soul_n of_o our_o obedience_n and_o our_o obedience_n the_o necessary_a mean_n of_o our_o happiness_n the_o profit_n of_o both_o must_v necessary_o redound_v to_o ourselves_o and_o it_o be_v we_o only_o that_o must_v be_v enrich_v and_o glorify_v by_o they_o for_o this_o reason_n therefore_o god_n require_v our_o love_n that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o live_a principle_n to_o obedience_n and_o that_o be_v so_o it_o may_v accelerate_v our_o happiness_n for_o he_o who_o love_n of_o god_n be_v but_o arrive_v to_o the_o degree_n of_o a_o reign_a principle_n of_o obedience_n so_o as_o that_o his_o obedience_n proceed_v more_o from_o his_o love_n than_o from_o any_o other_o passion_n do_v already_o border_n on_o the_o heavenly_a state_n and_o be_v within_o the_o confine_n of_o perfection_n for_o as_o for_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o heaven_n they_o be_v all_o act_v by_o pure_a love_n which_o make_v their_o obedience_n pure_a and_o perfect_a they_o see_v god_n face_n to_o face_n and_o by_o their_o sight_n be_v all_o inflame_v with_o love_n to_o he_o and_o by_o their_o love_n be_v wing_v with_o everlasting_a vigour_n and_o readiness_n to_o serve_v he_o and_o all_o their_o aversation_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will_n be_v swallow_v up_o in_o perfect_a love_n they_o not_o only_o obey_v without_o murmur_a but_o with_o infinite_a ravishment_n and_o pleasure_n and_o never_o feel_v themselves_o more_o in_o heaven_n than_o while_o they_o be_v serve_v praise_v and_o adore_v he_o this_o be_v the_o happy_a state_n of_o those_o heavenly_a lover_n and_o to_o this_o we_o be_v approach_v with_o full_a speed_n while_o we_o obey_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o love_n for_o love_n will_v carry_v we_o on_o with_o wind_n and_o tide_n from_o one_o degree_n of_o perfection_n to_o another_o and_o whilst_o poor_a slavish_a soul_n that_o be_v act_v main_o by_o their_o fear_n be_v feign_v to_o tug_v at_o the_o oar_n and_o yet_o creep_v on_o but_o slow_o and_o by_o insensible_a degree_n we_o shall_v run_v forward_o with_o ease_n and_o speed_n and_o get_v more_o ground_n at_o one_o stroke_n than_o they_o can_v in_o twenty_o for_o in_o one_o good_a action_n perform_v out_o of_o love_n there_o be_v more_o virtue_n and_o goodness_n than_o in_o a_o hundred_o of_o those_o whereunto_o we_o be_v drag_v by_o our_o own_o fear_n and_o terror_n because_o as_o the_o degree_n of_o evil_a so_o the_o degree_n of_o good_a in_o all_o action_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v by_o the_o degree_n
at_o it_o so_o that_o we_o can_v run_v from_o any_o duty_n into_o any_o sin_n without_o leave_v a_o benefit_n for_o a_o mischief_n and_o leap_v out_o of_o some_o degree_n of_o happiness_n into_o some_o degree_n of_o misery_n when_o thing_n i_o say_v be_v thus_o as_o it_o be_v apparent_a they_o be_v with_o what_o conscience_n can_v we_o complain_v that_o our_o duty_n be_v burdensome_a and_o uneasy_a this_o therefore_o be_v one_o great_a reason_n why_o god_n command_n can_v be_v grievous_a because_o they_o require_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v beneficial_a and_o forbid_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v hurtful_a and_o injurious_a to_o we_o and_o sure_o no_o man_n can_v have_v reason_n to_o complain_v that_o be_v forbid_v poison_n and_o command_v to_o eat_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v wholesome_a and_o nourish_a 2_o lie_n another_o thing_n that_o facilitate_v the_o command_n of_o god_n be_v this_o that_o they_o be_v high_o agreeable_a to_o our_o reasonable_a nature_n and_o hence_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o whole_a of_o our_o religion_n a_o reasonable_a service_n rom._n twelve_o 1_o and_o for_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o i_o dare_v appeal_n to_o any_o consider_a man_n in_o the_o world_n whether_o those_o virtue_n which_o god_n have_v enjoin_v be_v not_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n far_o more_o reasonable_a than_o any_o of_o the_o contrary_a vice_n whether_o suppose_v there_o be_v a_o god_n that_o make_v and_o govern_v the_o world_n and_o from_o who_o we_o derive_v our_o being_n and_o all_o the_o blessing_n we_o enjoy_v or_o expect_v it_o be_v not_o much_o more_o reasonable_a in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o shall_v worship_v and_o revere_a and_o love_n and_o honour_n and_o obey_v he_o than_o that_o we_o shall_v neglect_v and_o despise_v blaspheme_v and_o rebel_n against_o he_o or_o whether_o we_o can_v behave_v ourselves_o so_o unworthy_o to_o one_o that_o have_v deserve_v so_o well_o at_o our_o hand_n without_o do_v the_o great_a violence_n to_o our_o own_o reason_n whether_o since_o we_o be_v all_o of_o we_o reasonable_a being_n and_o our_o reason_n be_v the_o noble_a ingredient_n of_o our_o nature_n it_o do_v not_o much_o better_o become_v we_o to_o subject_v our_o blind_a passion_n and_o appetite_n to_o those_o eternal_a rule_n of_o temperance_n which_o right_a reason_n prescribe_v than_o to_o let_v loose_v the_o reins_o to_o they_o and_o suffer_v they_o to_o run_v headlong_o into_o all_o excess_n and_o riot_n whether_o since_o we_o be_v incorporate_v into_o the_o great_a society_n of_o mankind_n it_o be_v not_o much_o more_o conducive_a to_o the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a to_o behave_v ourselves_o just_o and_o honest_o charitable_o and_o oblige_v one_o towards_o another_o than_o to_o defraud_v and_o oppress_v malign_v and_o persecute_v one_o another_o i_o dare_v appeal_n to_o any_o man_n that_o have_v ever_o think_v twice_o of_o these_o matter_n whether_o in_o point_n of_o reasonableness_n the_o advantage_n be_v not_o whole_o on_o the_o side_n of_o virtue_n yea_o and_o whether_o the_o opposite_a vice_n compare_v with_o these_o virtue_n seem_v not_o as_o extravagant_a as_o the_o wild_a freak_n of_o a_o madman_n compare_v with_o the_o wise_a management_n of_o a_o minister_n of_o state_n but_o i_o need_v not_o appeal_v to_o particular_a man_n in_o this_o matter_n since_o all_o the_o reasonable_a world_n be_v agree_v in_o the_o point_n and_o the_o man_n of_o all_o age_n and_o nation_n and_o religion_n how_o much_o soever_o in_o other_o point_v they_o have_v dissent_v from_o one_o another_o yet_o in_o this_o have_v still_o be_v unanimous_a that_o virtue_n be_v the_o wise_a and_o most_o reasonable_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n and_o vice_n the_o most_o absurd_a and_o irrational_a and_o this_o not_o only_o in_o the_o general_n but_o in_o all_o those_o particular_a instance_n of_o virtue_n and_o vice_n which_o christianity_n command_v and_o forbid_v for_o except_v the_o two_o sacrament_n and_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o lord_n day_n which_o be_v the_o institute_v mean_n of_o our_o religion_n there_o be_v nothing_o make_v matter_n of_o duty_n to_o we_o but_o what_o all_o the_o wise_a world_n have_v long_o before_o pronounce_v most_o high_o fit_v and_o reasonable_a this_o therefore_o must_v needs_o render_v the_o command_n of_o god_n very_o easy_a to_o we_o that_o they_o do_v so_o perfect_o agree_v with_o our_o reasonable_a nature_n and_o require_v nothing_o of_o we_o either_o to_o be_v do_v or_o avoid_v but_o what_o the_o reason_n of_o every_o wise_a man_n will_v have_v oblige_v he_o to_o whether_o god_n have_v command_v it_o or_o no._n so_o that_o now_o to_o facilitate_v our_o duty_n we_o have_v the_o full_a concurrence_n of_o our_o reason_n which_o upon_o due_a and_o impartial_a consideration_n can_v but_o approve_v and_o recommend_v it_o to_o we_o as_o the_o most_o reasonable_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o it_o shall_v be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n grievous_a be_v it_o so_o hard_a a_o matter_n for_o man_n to_o act_v like_o man_n and_o not_o to_o live_v their_o own_o reverse_n and_o antipode_n be_v it_o such_o a_o mighty_a burden_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o most_o genuine_a inclination_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o to_o swim_v with_o the_o full_a tide_n and_o current_n of_o our_o reason_n in_o obey_v those_o command_n which_o be_v so_o far_o from_o offer_v any_o violence_n to_o our_o faculty_n that_o they_o have_v their_o full_a consent_n and_o approbation_n let_v man_n say_v and_o teach_v what_o they_o please_v it_o be_v as_o apparent_a as_o the_o sun_n that_o the_o difficulty_n of_o religion_n commence_v not_o so_o much_o upon_o the_o stock_n of_o nature_n as_o of_o education_n and_o evil_a habit_n and_o custom_n for_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n that_o which_o be_v natural_a be_v always_o facile_a and_o easy_a and_o if_o reason_v be_v the_o nature_n of_o a_o man_n religion_n must_v be_v either_o natural_a or_o unreasonable_a so_o that_o religion_n disagree_v with_o we_o upon_o no_o other_o account_n but_o only_o because_o we_o disagree_v with_o ourselves_o and_o it_o just_a so_o far_o cross_v we_o as_o we_o do_v the_o current_n of_o our_o own_o rational_a nature_n we_o have_v sophisticated_a our_o nature_n with_o the_o intermixture_n of_o sensual_a and_o devilish_a habit_n and_o they_o be_v these_o that_o the_o command_v of_o god_n do_v agrieve_v and_o so_o it_o be_v not_o the_o man_n that_o be_v so_o burden_a with_o religion_n but_o it_o be_v either_o the_o beast_n or_o the_o devil_n that_o be_v in_o he_o 3_o lie_n another_o thing_n that_o facilitate_v god_n command_n be_v this_o that_o they_o be_v mighty_o further_v and_o promote_v by_o all_o the_o natural_a instinct_n and_o passion_n of_o human_a nature_n there_o be_v certain_a propension_n in_o human_a nature_n antecedent_n to_o all_o reason_n and_o discourse_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v implant_v in_o we_o by_o the_o wise_a author_n of_o our_o being_n for_o no_o other_o end_v but_o only_o to_o minister_v to_o virtue_n and_o religion_n such_o in_o particular_a be_v self-love_n the_o love_n of_o truth_n and_o of_o pleasure_n commiseration_n and_o gratitude_n and_o affectation_n of_o praise_n all_o which_o do_v discover_v themselves_o in_o we_o in_o our_o early_a infancy_n before_o we_o be_v capable_a of_o discourse_v ourselves_o into_o they_o for_o even_o in_o young_a infant_n you_o may_v observe_v a_o great_a inclination_n to_o defend_v themselves_o and_o to_o repel_v injury_n which_o proceed_v from_o the_o principle_n of_o self-love_n that_o be_v in_o they_o a_o vehement_a desire_n of_o what_o seem_v good_a to_o they_o and_o a_o great_a displeasure_n when_o they_o perceive_v themselves_o deceive_v the_o late_a of_o which_o must_v proceed_v from_o their_o love_n of_o truth_n as_o the_o former_a from_o their_o love_n of_o goodness_n again_o when_o they_o see_v a_o miserable_a object_n or_o one_o who_o they_o think_v so_o they_o present_o bemoan_v it_o and_o express_v by_o their_o action_n a_o very_a earnest_n desire_v to_o defend_v and_o relieve_v it_o which_o proceed_v from_o that_o natural_a commiseration_n that_o be_v in_o they_o again_o as_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v able_a to_o distinguish_v face_n and_o person_n we_o see_v they_o express_v the_o great_a love_n and_o fondness_n to_o those_o that_o tend_v and_o feed_v they_o and_o do_v they_o most_o good_a which_o be_v a_o plain_a expression_n of_o their_o natural_a gratitude_n and_o as_o soon_o as_o they_o understand_v the_o mean_v of_o word_n or_o action_n they_o show_v themselves_o high_o please_v when_o they_o be_v commend_v and_o applaud_v and_o much_o grieve_v and_o ashamed_a when_o they_o be_v deride_v and_o expose_v which_o plain_o discover_v their_o natural_a affectation_n of_o praise_n these_o
and_o such_o like_a instinct_n and_o propension_n there_o be_v find_v in_o human_a nature_n which_o be_v well_o manage_v and_o improve_v by_o our_o reason_n prove_v excellent_a instrument_n of_o virtue_n and_o religion_n and_o do_v very_o much_o facilitate_v and_o further_o our_o practice_n of_o they_o for_o this_o our_o natural_a self-love_n be_v guide_v by_o our_o reason_n do_v strong_o incline_v we_o to_o serve_v and_o obey_v god_n who_o be_v the_o most_o powerful_a agent_n in_o the_o world_n can_v do_v we_o the_o great_a good_a if_o we_o please_v he_o and_o the_o great_a hurt_v if_o we_o affront_v and_o provoke_v he_o so_o that_o as_o we_o love_v our_o self_n it_o concern_v we_o to_o use_v all_o reasonable_a way_n to_o endear_v and_o reconcile_v ourselves_o to_o he_o thus_o our_o natural_a desire_n of_o good_a if_o conduct_v by_o our_o reason_n will_v incline_v we_o to_o do_v the_o best_a action_n since_o from_o these_o the_o great_a good_a will_n necessary_o redound_v to_o we_o and_o our_o love_n of_o truth_n by_o good_a management_n may_v be_v easy_o improve_v into_o honesty_n and_o sincerity_n and_o a_o universal_a abhorrence_n of_o vice_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o those_o notorious_a cheat_n and_o imposture_n that_o be_v in_o it_o thus_o also_o by_o the_o bias_n of_o our_o natural_a commiseration_n we_o be_v strong_o incline_v to_o charity_n and_o beneficence_n and_o universal_a love_n and_o by_o its_o own_o innate_a gratitude_n our_o nature_n be_v propense_a to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n who_o be_v our_o sovereign_a benefactor_n to_o honour_n and_o obey_v our_o parent_n and_o do_v all_o the_o act_n and_o office_n of_o a_o noble_a and_o generous_a friendship_n and_o to_o name_v no_o more_o thus_o by_o our_o natural_a affectation_n of_o praise_n we_o be_v strong_o incline_v to_o do_v praiseworthy_a thing_n and_o consequent_o to_o exercise_v ourselves_o in_o all_o those_o amiable_a virtue_n which_o by_o common_a consent_n be_v look_v upon_o as_o the_o grace_n and_o ornament_n of_o human_a nature_n thus_o by_o all_o those_o instinct_n that_o god_n have_v implant_v in_o our_o nature_n we_o be_v incline_v to_o virtue_n and_o obedience_n to_o his_o will_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n chief_o have_v he_o implant_v they_o in_o we_o because_o they_o be_v excellent_a instrument_n of_o religion_n have_v in_o they_o such_o a_o natural_a aptitude_n and_o proneness_n to_o facilitate_v our_o duty_n by_o incline_v we_o to_o it_o and_o to_o far_o we_o in_o holiness_n and_o virtue_n i_o confess_v there_o be_v none_o of_o these_o instinct_n but_o may_v be_v improve_v into_o vice_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o thing_n so_o good_a but_o what_o may_v be_v pervert_v to_o very_o bad_a purpose_n and_o if_o man_n will_v abuse_v themselves_o and_o wilful_o deboach_v the_o instinct_n of_o their_o nature_n there_o be_v no_o remedy_n for_o their_o folly_n and_o they_o must_v thank_v themselves_o when_o they_o feel_v the_o dismal_a effect_n of_o it_o but_o this_o i_o think_v be_v plain_a that_o there_o be_v no_o propension_n in_o human_a nature_n but_o what_o be_v much_o more_o improvable_a into_o virtue_n than_o into_o vice_n and_o if_o man_n will_v but_o use_v themselves_o well_o and_o as_o it_o become_v reasonable_a creature_n to_o do_v they_o will_v doubtless_o find_v themselves_o very_o much_o farther_v in_o their_o duty_n by_o the_o natural_a instinct_n which_o god_n have_v implant_v within_o they_o and_o this_o be_v a_o mighty_a advantage_n on_o virtue_n side_n that_o it_o be_v thus_o aid_v and_o assist_v with_o all_o the_o instinct_n of_o our_o nature_n which_o like_o obedient_a handmaid_n be_v most_o ready_o incline_v to_o execute_v its_o command_n and_o minister_v to_o its_o pleasure_n and_o interest_n how_o then_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o religion_n in_o itself_o shall_v be_v burdensome_a and_o grievous_a to_o we_o when_o the_o propension_n of_o our_o nature_n do_v so_o fair_o comply_v with_o it_o and_o it_o be_v help_v forward_o and_o promote_v by_o all_o their_o unite_a force_n and_o influence_n it_o be_v difficult_a indeed_o for_o a_o man_n to_o go_v against_o the_o grain_n but_o to_o act_v according_a to_o nature_n to_o follow_v our_o own_o propension_n and_o to_o do_v what_o we_o be_v incline_v to_o by_o natural_a instinct_n be_v doubtless_o the_o easy_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n 4_o lie_n another_o thing_n that_o make_v those_o virtue_n which_o god_n command_v to_o be_v easy_a be_v this_o that_o they_o be_v all_o so_o inseparable_o connect_v to_o one_o another_o that_o they_o mutual_o promote_v and_o help_v forward_o each_o other_o for_o all_o the_o virtue_n be_v so_o mutual_o concatenate_v that_o the_o stir_v of_o any_o one_o link_n move_v the_o whole_a chain_n thus_o for_o instance_n the_o true_a knowledge_n of_o god_n natural_o inflame_v the_o soul_n with_o the_o love_n of_o he_o and_o then_o the_o love_n of_o he_o insensible_o transform_v she_o into_o the_o image_n of_o his_o belove_a goodness_n for_o he_o that_o love_v god_n must_v needs_o be_v enamour_a with_o that_o divine_a goodness_n which_o be_v the_o root_n of_o his_o love_n and_o while_o he_o be_v ravish_v with_o the_o sweetness_n of_o his_o good_a will_n the_o undeservedness_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o the_o clemency_n of_o his_o pardon_n a_o heavenly_a spirit_n steal_v into_o his_o soul_n and_o he_o love_v and_o become_v like_o god_n so_o both_o at_o once_o that_o like_o a_o wedg_n of_o steel_n he_o be_v transform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o fire_n that_o heat_v he_o and_o be_v all_o inflame_a and_o enlighten_v at_o the_o same_o moment_n and_o as_o he_o burn_v with_o love_n so_o he_o resemble_v the_o goodness_n that_o set_v he_o on_o fire_n and_o become_v pure_a as_o that_o be_v pure_a and_o holy_a as_o that_o be_v holy_a and_o just_a and_o merciful_a as_o that_o heavenly_a original_a be_v which_o he_o copy_n and_o transcribe_n thus_o wheresoever_o the_o love_n of_o god_n be_v it_o have_v all_o the_o godlike_a virtue_n attend_v it_o and_o that_o be_v the_o first_o link_n in_o the_o heavenly_a chain_n whensoever_o it_o move_v it_o communicate_v motion_n to_o all_o the_o rest_n for_o he_o that_o hearty_o love_v god_n will_v love_v those_o who_o god_n love_v and_o so_o the_o love_n of_o god_n will_v draw_v brotherly-charity_n after_o it_o and_o he_o who_o love_v those_o who_o god_n love_v will_v be_v just_a and_o righteous_a in_o his_o deal_n and_o deportment_n towards_o they_o and_o so_o brotherly-charity_n will_v draw_v righteousness_n after_o it_o and_o he_o that_o demean_v himself_o just_o and_o righteous_o towards_o other_o will_v neither_o undervalue_v they_o nor_o overvalue_v himself_o and_o so_o righteousness_n will_v draw_v humility_n after_o it_o and_o he_o that_o do_v not_o overvalue_v himself_o be_v fair_o dispose_v to_o be_v sober_a in_o all_o his_o passion_n and_o so_o humility_n draw_v temperance_n and_o sobriety_n and_o meekness_n after_o it_o thus_o one_o virtue_n smoothen_v the_o way_n to_o another_o and_o make_v it_o not_o only_o possible_a but_o easy_a for_o there_o be_v such_o a_o near_a neighbourhood_n between_o these_o heavenly_a sister_n that_o when_o we_o be_v arrive_v at_o one_o we_o pass_v insensible_o to_o the_o next_o and_o so_o on_o by_o degree_n till_o we_o be_v go_v round_o with_o they_o all_o for_o though_o there_o be_v not_o a_o immediate_a dependence_n of_o every_o virtue_n upon_o every_o one_o virtue_n so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o necessary_a for_o a_o man_n to_o have_v all_o virtue_n in_o every_o moment_n that_o he_o have_v one_o for_o a_o man_n may_v be_v charitable_a and_o yet_o not_o present_o humble_a as_o he_o may_v be_v just_a and_o yet_o not_o immediate_o temperate_a yet_o there_o be_v so_o near_o a_o dependence_n between_o they_o that_o one_o always_o dispose_v the_o mind_n for_o another_o this_o virtue_n always_o make_v way_n for_o its_o next_o neighbour_n and_o that_o for_o its_o next_o and_o so_o on_o all_o around_o the_o whole_a circle_n of_o virtue_n thus_o humility_n natural_o dispose_v the_o mind_n to_o meekness_n meekness_n to_o charity_n charity_n to_o justice_n justice_z to_z devotion_n which_o be_v give_v god_n his_o due_a and_o devotion_n to_o heavenly-mindedness_a and_o contempt_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o all_o along_o there_o be_v a_o gentle_a and_o easy_a transition_n from_o one_o to_o the_o other_o now_o this_o must_v needs_o mighty_o facilitate_v the_o virtue_n of_o religion_n that_o they_o be_v so_o near_o confederate_v to_o each_o other_o and_o so_o do_v natural_o contribute_v to_o each_o other_o assistance_n for_o whereas_o if_o it_o be_v not_o for_o this_o there_o will_v still_o be_v the_o same_o difficulty_n in_o practise_v the_o second_o virtue_n as_o there_o be_v in_o practise_v the_o first_o and_o in_o practise_v the_o three_o as_o there_o be_v in_o practise_v
nature_n about_o which_o these_o faculty_n can_v be_v perfect_o exercise_v but_o only_o god_n who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o truth_n and_o goodness_n and_o consequent_o our_o happiness_n as_o man_n must_v consist_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o know_v and_o love_v and_o resemble_v he_o for_o ever_o and_o in_o order_n to_o our_o obtain_n of_o this_o god_n have_v furnish_v we_o with_o understanding_n by_o the_o good_a improvement_n of_o which_o we_o may_v easy_o arrive_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o for_o he_o have_v place_v we_o so_o advantageous_o in_o be_v that_o as_o from_o a_o convenient_a station_n in_o a_o noble_a theatre_n we_o be_v able_a to_o contemplate_v the_o admirable_a scheme_n of_o those_o magnificent_a work_n which_o god_n have_v set_v round_o about_o we_o and_o from_o the_o vastness_n of_o the_o whole_a structure_n the_o variety_n of_o its_o part_n and_o the_o beautiful_a order_n which_o appear_v in_o their_o admirable_a connection_n we_o can_v easy_o infer_v that_o such_o a_o noble_a production_n must_v needs_o be_v owe_v to_o a_o almighty_a skill_n and_o goodness_n and_o then_o such_o be_v the_o frame_n of_o our_o nature_n that_o we_o easy_o love_v that_o which_o we_o know_v to_o be_v lovely_a and_o consequent_o if_o we_o be_v not_o prejudice_v by_o preternatural_a lust_n that_o which_o we_o behold_v of_o god_n in_o his_o work_n will_v imprint_v such_o a_o amiable_a notion_n of_o he_o in_o our_o mind_n as_o will_v almost_o necessary_o engage_v we_o to_o love_v he_o and_o then_o our_o love_n will_v provoke_v we_o to_o imitate_v those_o beauty_n for_o which_o we_o love_v he_o we_o be_v natural_o ambitious_a of_o transcribe_v those_o perfection_n into_o ourselves_o which_o we_o love_v and_o admire_v in_o another_o and_o then_o by_o imitate_v he_o we_o shall_v by_o degree_n be_v mould_v into_o his_o likeness_n and_o resemblance_n for_o act_n will_v beget_v inclination_n inclination_n will_v grow_v into_o habit_n and_o habit_n will_v become_v our_o nature_n so_o that_o you_o see_v god_n have_v implant_v a_o ability_n of_o know_v and_o love_v and_o resemble_v himself_o in_o the_o very_a frame_n and_o structure_n of_o our_o nature_n these_o thing_n we_o be_v as_o capable_a of_o as_o of_o any_o thing_n whatsoever_o that_o be_v rational_a and_o manly_a we_o be_v as_o capable_a of_o know_v god_n as_o of_o know_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v knowable_a as_o capable_a of_o love_v he_o as_o of_o love_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v amiable_a as_o capable_a of_o resemble_v he_o as_o of_o imitate_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v imitable_a and_o these_o be_v the_o noble_a and_o most_o essential_a part_n of_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o rational_a nature_n now_o what_o a_o undeniable_a instance_n be_v this_o of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n that_o he_o have_v not_o only_o make_v so_o many_o kind_n of_o being_n capable_a of_o so_o many_o different_a degree_n of_o happiness_n but_o that_o he_o have_v furnish_v they_o all_o with_o such_o abundant_a mean_n and_o ability_n to_o obtain_v it_o o_o bless_a god_n what_o heart_n can_v be_v so_o stupid_a and_o insensible_a as_o not_o to_o admire_v and_o adore_v thy_o exuberant_a goodness_n which_o have_v thus_o extend_v itself_o to_o the_o utmost_a border_n of_o entity_n and_o bless_v with_o its_o overflow_a stream_n such_o a_o infinite_a number_n of_o being_n what_o tongue_n be_v able_a sufficient_o to_o praise_v and_o extol_v thy_o benignity_n that_o out_o of_o thy_o own_o immense_a fullness_n have_v supply_v such_o a_o vast_a creation_n with_o such_o capacity_n and_o such_o mean_n and_o such_o ability_n of_o be_v happy_a 4_o thly_a and_o last_o another_o instance_n of_o his_o do_v good_a in_o this_o great_a work_n of_o creation_n be_v his_o implant_n a_o natural_a inclination_n of_o do_v good_a to_o other_o in_o all_o those_o being_n that_n be_v capable_a of_o happiness_n for_o it_o be_v his_o design_n to_o propagate_v this_o sort_n of_o being_n by_o way_n of_o generation_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n he_o have_v implant_v in_o all_o parent_n as_o well_o sensitive_a as_o rational_a a_o natural_a love_n and_o goodwill_n to_o their_o offspring_n and_o that_o to_o such_o a_o degree_n as_o we_o see_v the_o most_o timorous_a and_o helpless_a creature_n be_v not_o only_o very_o industrious_a to_o nurse_n and_o cherish_v they_o but_o very_o courageous_a in_o their_o defence_n and_o preservation_n which_o be_v a_o great_a instance_n of_o the_o indulgent_a care_n which_o the_o great_a father_n of_o being_n have_v of_o all_o his_o child_n that_o he_o have_v commit_v they_o in_o their_o infancy_n to_o such_o tender_a nurse_n that_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o take_v care_n to_o make_v provision_n for_o they_o when_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o provide_v for_o themselves_o that_o he_o have_v not_o trust_v they_o to_o the_o compassion_n and_o good_a nature_n of_o other_o being_n to_o be_v maintain_v by_o the_o alm_n and_o free_a benevolence_n of_o their_o fellow_n creature_n but_o have_v take_v security_n for_o their_o liberal_a nurture_n and_o education_n from_o the_o very_a nature_n and_o inmost_a bowel_n of_o their_o parent_n who_o be_v so_o frame_v that_o they_o can_v choose_v but_o make_v provision_n for_o they_o if_o they_o be_v able_a without_o do_v the_o great_a outrage_n to_o themselves_o and_o stifle_v one_o of_o the_o strong_a inclination_n of_o their_o nature_n which_o inclination_n of_o natural_a parent_n do_v therefore_o loud_o proclaim_v the_o infinite_a goodness_n of_o the_o great_a parent_n of_o all_o thing_n to_o his_o child_n because_o there_o can_v be_v no_o other_o reason_n assign_v why_o he_o shall_v implant_v this_o inclination_n in_o our_o nature_n but_o because_o he_o love_v we_o and_o be_v therefore_o resolve_v to_o take_v the_o most_o effectual_a course_n that_o care_n may_v be_v take_v of_o we_o when_o we_o be_v not_o capable_a to_o take_v care_n for_o ourselves_o and_o can_v we_o think_v that_o the_o supreme_a father_n who_o have_v implant_v in_o all_o natural_a parent_n such_o a_o necessary_a inclination_n to_o do_v good_a to_o their_o child_n shall_v be_v forgetful_a and_o regardless_o of_o his_o own_o offspring_n he_o that_o plant_v the_o eye_n shall_v not_o he_o see_v and_o he_o that_o give_v the_o ear_n shall_v not_o he_o hear_v and_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n he_o that_o have_v so_o strong_o incline_v our_o nature_n to_o the_o love_n of_o our_o offspring_n shall_v not_o he_o love_v his_o own_o shall_v not_o his_o nature_n be_v as_o strong_o incline_v to_o do_v good_a to_o they_o for_o the_o whole_a creation_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o expansion_n or_o spread_v forth_o of_o the_o divine_a simplicity_n and_o perfection_n all_o creature_n do_v more_o proper_o belong_v to_o god_n than_o family_n or_o action_n do_v to_o the_o principle_n from_o whence_o they_o flow_v so_o that_o we_o be_v as_o it_o be_v flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n and_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o no_o man_n say_v the_o apostle_n hate_v his_o own_o flesh_n but_o rather_o nourish_v and_o cherish_v it_o and_o if_o man_n do_v not_o can_v we_o imagine_v that_o god_n do_v for_o as_o for_o man_n we_o see_v the_o more_o perfect_a he_o be_v and_o the_o more_o suitable_a to_o his_o nature_n he_o act_v the_o more_o he_o be_v incline_v to_o do_v good_a and_o that_o not_o only_o to_o his_o own_o but_o to_o all_o other_o that_o be_v within_o the_o sphere_n of_o his_o beneficence_n he_o find_v in_o himself_o such_o a_o diffusive_a and_o all-spreading_a principle_n of_o love_n as_o render_v he_o a_o universal_a friend_n and_o benefactor_n to_o the_o world_n and_o make_v he_o sympathize_v in_o the_o happiness_n and_o misery_n of_o all_o being_n and_o this_o brave_a temper_n of_o mind_n be_v doubtless_o one_o of_o the_o high_a perfection_n that_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v capable_a of_o since_o therefore_o original_o we_o come_v no_o otherwise_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n perfection_n than_o as_o we_o find_v they_o copy_v out_o and_o transcribe_v into_o our_o own_o nature_n how_o can_v we_o imagine_v that_o god_n shall_v not_o be_v incline_v to_o universal_a love_n and_o beneficence_n when_o we_o acknowledge_v it_o a_o perfection_n in_o ourselves_o to_o be_v so_o can_v there_o be_v any_o perfection_n in_o we_o that_o be_v not_o in_o god_n in_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o possibility_n and_o therefore_o if_o the_o inclination_n to_o do_v good_a be_v a_o perfection_n in_o we_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v in_o god_n in_o all_o the_o possible_a degree_n that_o a_o infinite_a nature_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o since_o he_o have_v so_o frame_v all_o reasonable_a nature_n that_o universal_a love_n and_o proneness_n to_o do_v good_a be_v one_o of_o their_o great_a perfection_n and_o accomplishment_n we_o
shall_v not_o perish_v but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n i._o i_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o of_o these_o viz._n the_o greatness_n of_o the_o gift_n by_o which_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o love_n to_o we_o be_v measure_v god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d he_o give_v he_o that_o be_v he_o deliver_v he_o up_o from_o out_o of_o his_o own_o bosom_n and_o everlasting_a embrace_n for_o so_o eph._n v._n 2_o it_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d he_o give_v himself_o for_o we_o or_o deliver_v up_o himself_o for_o we_o for_o so_o we_o render_v the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d who_o be_v deliver_v for_o our_o offence_n rom._n four_o 25_o now_o what_o a_o stupendous_a expression_n of_o god_n love_n this_o be_v will_v appear_v by_o consider_v these_o six_o thing_n which_o be_v all_o of_o they_o express_v or_o imply_v in_o the_o text_n 1._o that_o he_o give_v he_o up_o who_o be_v not_o only_o the_o great_a but_o the_o dear_a person_n to_o he_o in_o the_o whole_a world_n 2._o that_o he_o give_v he_o up_o for_o sinner_n 3._o that_o he_o give_v he_o up_o for_o a_o whole_a world_n of_o sinner_n 4._o that_o he_o give_v he_o up_o to_o become_v a_o man_n for_o sinner_n 5._o that_o he_o give_v he_o up_o to_o be_v a_o miserable_a man_n for_o sinner_n 6._o that_o he_o give_v he_o to_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o sinner_n that_o so_o he_o may_v not_o only_o with_o more_o effect_n but_o with_o more_o security_n to_o we_o intercede_v for_o our_o pardon_n 1._o the_o greatness_n of_o god_n love_n and_o goodness_n towards_o we_o appear_v in_o this_o that_o he_o give_v up_o for_o our_o sake_n not_o only_o the_o great_a but_o the_o dear_a person_n to_o he_o in_o the_o whole_a world_n for_o as_o the_o text_n tell_v you_o it_o be_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n which_o phrase_n doubtless_o import_v a_o much_o high_a signification_n than_o his_o be_v beget_v in_o the_o virgin_n womb_n by_o the_o overshadow_a of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o though_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o in_o scripture_n he_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n sometime_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o this_o his_o divine_a generation_n in_o the_o virgin_n womb_n and_o sometime_o upon_o the_o score_n of_o his_o be_v ordain_v by_o god_n to_o the_o messiaship_n sometime_o because_o he_o be_v raise_v by_o god_n from_o the_o dead_a and_o sometime_o because_o he_o be_v install_v by_o he_o into_o his_o mediatorial_n kingdom_n yet_o upon_o neither_o of_o these_o account_n can_v he_o be_v proper_o call_v the_o only_o beget_v son_n for_o upon_o the_o three_o last_o account_n sundry_a other_o have_v be_v as_o proper_o beget_v by_o god_n as_o our_o saviour_n some_o have_v be_v install_v by_o he_o into_o great_a and_o eminent_a office_n other_o raise_v from_o the_o dead_a other_o true_o ordain_v by_o he_o his_o messiah_n or_o anoint_a one_o so_o that_o upon_o neither_o of_o these_o account_n can_v he_o be_v style_v the_o only_o beget_v son_n other_o have_v be_v thus_o beget_v as_o well_o as_o himself_o and_o as_o for_o the_o first_o his_o be_v conceive_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o virgin_n womb_n this_o be_v not_o sufficient_a neither_o to_o entitle_v he_o the_o only_o beget_v because_o though_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o miraculous_a production_n yet_o be_v it_o not_o so_o much_o above_o the_o production_n of_o the_o first_o man_n as_o to_o place_v he_o in_o that_o singular_a eminence_n for_o the_o form_n of_o adam_n out_o of_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v altogether_o as_o miraculous_a a_o production_n as_o the_o form_n of_o christ_n out_o of_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o woman_n and_o therefore_o since_o adam_n be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n luk._n 3.38_o because_o god_n immediate_o form_v he_o of_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o earth_n he_o have_v thereby_o as_o good_a a_o right_n to_o the_o title_n of_o god_n only_o beget_v son_n as_o christ_n himself_o have_v because_o god_n immediate_o form_v he_o of_o the_o substance_n of_o a_o woman_n wherefore_o his_o peculiar_a right_n above_o all_o other_o to_o this_o glorious_a title_n of_o god_n only_o beget_v son_n must_v necessary_o be_v found_v upon_o some_o high_a reason_n than_o this_o that_o be_v upon_o some_o such_o reason_n as_o be_v whole_o peculiar_a to_o himself_o for_o if_o he_o be_v real_o and_o true_o god_n only_a beget_v son_n all_o other_o person_n whatsoever_o must_v necessary_o be_v exclude_v from_o that_o claim_n and_o consequent_o he_o must_v be_v so_o beget_v of_o god_n as_o no_o other_o person_n be_v or_o ever_o be_v and_o to_o be_v so_o beget_v of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v beget_v by_o he_o by_o a_o proper_a and_o natural_a generation_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o vital_a production_n of_o another_o in_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o he_o from_o who_o it_o be_v produce_v even_o as_o a_o man_n beget_v a_o man_n and_o every_o animal_n beget_v another_o of_o the_o same_o kind_a and_o nature_n with_o itself_o and_o thus_o to_o be_v beget_v of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v beget_v into_o the_o same_o divine_a nature_n with_o himself_o to_o derive_v or_o communicate_v from_o he_o the_o infinite_o perfect_a nature_n and_o essence_n of_o a_o god_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n only_o our_o bless_a saviour_n be_v the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o the_o father_n as_o be_v generate_v by_o he_o from_o all_o eternity_n into_o the_o same_o nature_n and_o communicate_v from_o he_o his_o own_o infinite_a essence_n and_o perfection_n in_o which_o sense_n he_o be_v true_o the_o only_a beget_v son_n because_o in_o this_o sense_n and_o in_o this_o only_a none_o be_v or_o be_v or_o ever_o shall_v be_v beget_v of_o the_o father_n but_o himself_o when_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n the_o mean_v be_v this_o he_o give_v up_o that_o infinite_o great_a and_o dear_a son_n of_o he_o that_o be_v his_o natural_a image_n and_o resemblance_n that_o only_a son_n to_o who_o from_o all_o eternity_n he_o have_v communicate_v his_o own_o most_o perfect_a essence_n and_o nature_n if_o then_o it_o be_v so_o great_a a_o instance_n of_o abraham_n faith_n and_o ardent_a love_n of_o god_n at_o his_o command_n to_o offer_v up_o his_o only_a son_n isaac_n a_o son_n who_o though_o how_o hopeful_a soever_o yet_o who_o fall_v infinite_o short_a of_o the_o perfection_n of_o our_o saviour_n than_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glow-worm_n do_v of_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n what_o a_o astonish_a miracle_n of_o love_n be_v it_o in_o the_o great_a father_n of_o the_o world_n to_o give_v up_o his_o only_o beget_v son_n a_o son_n who_o he_o have_v beget_v in_o his_o own_o divine_a nature_n and_o to_o who_o he_o have_v communicate_v all_o the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o his_o own_o be_v a_o son_n who_o be_v the_o most_o perfect_a image_n of_o himself_o who_o be_v infinite_o powerful_a and_o wise_a and_o good_a and_o differ_v from_o he_o in_o nothing_o but_o only_o in_o be_v his_o son_n who_o have_v the_o fullness_n of_o the_o godhead_n dwell_v in_o he_o and_o who_o be_v infinite_o perfect_a as_o himself_o he_o love_v as_o infinite_o as_o his_o own_o person_n and_o consequent_o can_v as_o easy_o have_v give_v up_o himself_o for_o we_o as_o he_o do_v that_o dear_o belove_v in_o who_o his_o soul_n be_v so_o well_o please_v who_o but_o a_o god_n of_o infinite_a love_n and_o immeasurable_a inclination_n to_o do_v good_a to_o his_o creature_n will_v have_v give_v they_o such_o a_o inestimable_a jewel_n out_o of_o his_o bosom_n a_o jewel_n wherein_o all_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o divinity_n do_v sparkle_v and_o which_o upon_o that_o account_n be_v as_o dear_a and_o precious_a to_o he_o as_o his_o own_o life_n and_o hence_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n value_v the_o greatness_n of_o god_n love_n to_o we_o by_o the_o greatness_n and_o dearness_n of_o the_o person_n who_o he_o give_v up_o for_o our_o sake_n in_o this_o be_v manifest_v the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o we_o because_o that_o god_n send_v his_o only_o beget_v son_n into_o the_o world_n that_o we_o may_v live_v through_o he_o 1_o joh._n four_o 9_o and_o indeed_o without_o this_o consideration_n of_o his_o be_v the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n by_o eternal_a generation_n and_o communion_n of_o nature_n with_o he_o god_n love_n in_o give_v he_o up_o for_o we_o will_v not_o be_v comparable_o so_o considerable_a as_o it_o be_v for_o if_o according_a to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o socinian_o he_o shall_v only_o have_v cause_v a_o man_n to_o be_v bear_v for_o we_o after_o another_o manner_n than_o
other_o man_n be_v and_o then_o have_v deliver_v he_o for_o our_o sake_n there_o will_v have_v be_v no_o such_o great_a expression_n of_o his_o love_n in_o this_o way_n of_o redeem_v we_o more_o than_o what_o must_v have_v appear_v shall_v he_o have_v choose_v to_o redeem_v we_o any_o other_o way_n to_o have_v redeem_v we_o indeed_o by_o what_o mean_v soever_o will_v have_v be_v a_o most_o glorious_a expression_n of_o his_o love_n and_o good_a will_n to_o we_o but_o since_o the_o scripture_n have_v raise_v the_o consideration_n of_o god_n love_n high_o from_o the_o dignity_n of_o the_o person_n who_o he_o send_v to_o redeem_v we_o by_o how_o much_o high_o the_o dignity_n of_o this_o person_n be_v by_o so_o much_o great_a be_v the_o estimation_n of_o his_o love_n but_o if_o the_o dignity_n of_o christ_n person_n as_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n of_o god_n consist_v mere_o in_o be_v a_o man_n bear_v into_o the_o world_n in_o such_o a_o extraordinary_a manner_n this_o will_v have_v make_v such_o a_o inconsiderable_a addition_n to_o his_o love_n in_o redeem_v we_o that_o he_o will_v have_v much_o more_o agrandize_v his_o kindness_n to_o we_o to_o have_v offer_v up_o a_o angel_n of_o heaven_n for_o we_o though_o of_o the_o most_o inferior_a order_n than_o to_o have_v thus_o deliver_v up_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n but_o to_o offer_v up_o his_o natural_a son_n to_o who_o he_o have_v communicate_v his_o nature_n his_o son_n who_o be_v god_n coeternal_a and_o coessential_a with_o himself_o be_v a_o more_o transcendent_a expression_n of_o his_o love_n to_o we_o than_o if_o he_o have_v unpeople_v heaven_n for_o our_o sake_n and_o deliver_v up_o to_o we_o the_o whole_a choir_n of_o angel_n archangel_n and_o seraphim_n 2_o lie_v the_o greatness_n of_o god_n love_n and_o goodness_n towards_o we_o appear_v in_o this_o also_o that_o he_o give_v up_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n for_o we_o when_o we_o be_v sinner_n and_o this_o be_v imply_v in_o that_o expression_n god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o be_v the_o world_n as_o it_o then_o be_v a_o base_a deprave_a and_o degenerate_a world_n for_o of_o this_o very_a world_n who_o god_n thus_o love_v the_o apostle_n give_v this_o extreme_a bad_a character_n the_o whole_a world_n lie_v in_o wickedness_n 1_o joh._n v_o 19_o and_o st._n paul_n distribute_v the_o whole_a world_n into_o jew_n and_o gentile_n pronounce_v universal_o concern_v they_o that_o they_o be_v all_o under_o sin_n rom._n iii._o 9_o so_o that_o in_o give_v up_o his_o son_n for_o such_o a_o world_n as_o this_o he_o must_v necessary_o give_v he_o for_o sinner_n and_o certain_o shall_v we_o measure_v god_n goodness_n by_o our_o own_o this_o consideration_n be_v enough_o to_o render_v his_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n for_o we_o a_o most_o incredible_a expression_n of_o it_o that_o when_o by_o our_o sin_n we_o have_v provoke_v he_o beyond_o the_o sufferance_n of_o any_o patience_n but_o his_o own_o when_o in_o despite_n of_o all_o those_o innumerable_a mercy_n wherewith_o from_o time_n to_o time_n he_o have_v seek_v to_o oblige_v we_o and_o maugre_o all_o those_o stupendous_a judgement_n with_o which_o from_o one_o generation_n to_o another_o he_o have_v endeavour_v to_o curb_v and_o restrain_v we_o when_o he_o have_v use_v so_o many_o effectual_a art_n to_o reclaim_v and_o amend_v we_o and_o we_o by_o our_o own_o obstinacy_n have_v baffle_v and_o defeat_v they_o all_o and_o in_o stead_n of_o mend_v grow_v worse_a and_o worse_o under_o all_o his_o powerful_a application_n one_o will_v have_v think_v that_o now_o at_o last_o in_o stead_n of_o try_v any_o further_a experiment_n on_o we_o he_o may_v have_v be_v sufficient_o provoke_v to_o give_v we_o up_o as_o physician_n do_v their_o patient_n when_o they_o be_v pass_v all_o hope_n of_o recovery_n and_o so_o let_v we_o alone_o to_o perish_v in_o our_o own_o obstinacy_n and_o doubtless_o if_o after_o all_o these_o provocation_n we_o have_v know_v that_o he_o have_v intend_v to_o send_v his_o son_n into_o the_o world_n our_o own_o gild_n and_o consciousness_n will_v have_v make_v we_o conclude_v that_o the_o design_n of_o his_o send_v he_o be_v only_o to_o ruin_n and_o destroy_v we_o to_o extirpate_v the_o whole_a race_n of_o we_o from_o the_o face_n of_o the_o earth_n that_o so_o his_o creation_n may_v be_v no_o long_o scandalize_v with_o the_o remembrance_n of_o such_o a_o generation_n of_o monster_n but_o now_o that_o after_o so_o many_o repeat_v affront_v and_o rebellion_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o loud-crying_a guilt_n that_o perpetual_o ring_v in_o his_o ear_n he_o shall_v still_o persevere_v to_o love_v we_o in_o such_o a_o transcendent_a degree_n as_o to_o part_v with_o what_o be_v near_a and_o dear_a to_o he_o for_o our_o sake_n even_o his_o only_o beget_v son_n out_o of_o his_o bosom_n be_v such_o a_o astonish_a expression_n of_o his_o goodness_n to_o we_o as_o we_o can_v never_o sufficient_o magnify_v and_o admire_v have_v mankind_n be_v as_o innocent_a as_o they_o be_v guilty_a before_o god_n have_v their_o virtue_n be_v as_o great_a and_o as_o numerous_a as_o their_o crime_n be_v yet_o to_o send_v his_o great_a son_n down_o from_o heaven_n to_o visit_v they_o have_v be_v such_o a_o instance_n of_o condescend_v goodness_n in_o he_o as_o will_v have_v just_o merit_v our_o everlasting_a praise_n and_o remembrance_n but_o to_o send_v he_o down_o to_o sinner_n to_o such_o a_o race_n of_o obstinate_a and_o incorrigible_a sinner_n and_o that_o not_o to_o destroy_v but_o to_o save_v they_o to_o obtain_v for_o and_o tender_a to_o they_o a_o kingdom_n of_o immortal_a pleasure_n and_o use_v all_o possible_a mean_n safe_o to_o conduct_v they_o thither_o lord_n what_o a_o miracle_n of_o love_n be_v this_o and_o hence_o the_o apostle_n estimate_n this_o prodigious_a instance_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n by_o the_o vndeservingness_n of_o those_o upon_o who_o it_o be_v exercise_v but_o god_n say_v he_o commend_v his_o love_n towards_o we_o in_o that_o while_o we_o be_v yet_o sinner_n christ_n die_v for_o we_o rom._n v._n 8_o 3_o dly_z the_o greatness_n of_o god_n love_n and_o goodness_n towards_o we_o appear_v in_o this_o also_o that_o he_o give_v up_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n for_o the_o whole_a world_n of_o sinner_n he_o do_v not_o confine_v and_o limit_v this_o great_a design_n of_o his_o goodness_n by_o grant_v a_o monopoly_n of_o it_o to_o a_o few_o particular_a favourite_n but_o settle_v it_o as_o a_o public_a charter_n upon_o the_o whole_a corporation_n of_o mankind_n for_o he_o so_o love_v the_o world_n say_v the_o text_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n that_o be_v for_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o world_n for_o how_o can_v his_o give_v of_o his_o son_n have_v be_v a_o expression_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o world_n if_o he_o have_v not_o give_v he_o for_o the_o public_a benefit_n of_o the_o world_n have_v his_o design_n be_v to_o restrain_v his_o gift_n to_o a_o few_o particular_a person_n who_o he_o have_v design_v to_o rescue_v from_o the_o general_a shipwreck_n the_o text_n must_v have_v run_v thus_o god_n so_o love_v some_o particular_a person_n in_o the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v up_o his_o only_a beget_v son_n for_o to_o make_v that_o a_o instance_n of_o his_o love_n to_o all_o which_o he_o design_v only_o for_o the_o benefit_n of_o a_o few_o be_v to_o pretend_v a_o love_n to_o the_o great_a part_n of_o man_n which_o he_o never_o intend_v they_o for_o that_o by_o the_o world_n here_o he_o mean_v the_o whole_a world_n he_o himself_o assure_v we_o 1_o joh._n two_o 2_o and_o he_o be_v the_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n and_o not_o for_o we_o only_o but_o also_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o what_o he_o mean_v by_o the_o whole_a world_n he_o tell_v we_o in_o the_o same_o epistle_n 1_o joh._n v_o the_o whole_a world_n lie_v in_o wickedness_n so_o that_o this_o whole_a world_n that_o lie_v in_o wickedness_n be_v that_o whole_a world_n for_o who_o sin_n christ_n be_v a_o propitiation_n and_o that_o whole_a world_n for_o who_o sin_n christ_n be_v a_o propitiation_n be_v the_o world_n who_o god_n so_o love_v as_o to_o give_v his_o only_o beget_v son_n for_o but_o the_o apostle_n yet_o more_o express_o tell_v we_o that_o the_o head_n of_o every_o man_n be_v christ_n 1_o cor._n xi_o 3_o and_o if_o so_o than_o every_o man_n be_v a_o part_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o if_o so_o than_o every_o man_n have_v a_o communion_n in_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o blood_n for_o ephes._n v._n 23_o he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o saviour_n of_o the_o body_n and_o more_o express_o yet_o heb._n two_o 9_o it_o be_v say_v
place_n have_v obtain_v eternal_a redemption_n for_o we_o and_o in_o virtue_n of_o this_o blood_n which_o he_o pour_v out_o as_o a_o sacrifice_n of_o our_o sin_n upon_o the_o cross_n he_o now_o plead_v our_o cause_n at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o his_o father_n and_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o so_o that_o you_o see_v the_o death_n of_o christ_n have_v in_o it_o all_o the_o necessary_a ingredient_n of_o a_o propitiatory_a sacrifice_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n and_o have_v so_o what_o a_o prodigious_a instance_n be_v it_o of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o we_o that_o rather_o than_o destroy_v we_o he_o will_v give_v up_o his_o own_o son_n to_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n for_o we_o i_o do_v not_o deny_v but_o if_o he_o have_v please_v he_o may_v have_v pardon_v and_o save_v we_o without_o any_o sacrifice_n at_o all_o but_o he_o know_v very_o well_o that_o if_o he_o shall_v do_v so_o it_o will_v be_v much_o worse_o for_o we_o he_o know_v that_o if_o he_o shall_v pardon_v our_o sin_n without_o give_v we_o some_o great_a instance_n of_o his_o implacable_a hatred_n of_o they_o we_o shall_v be_v too_o prone_a to_o presume_v upon_o his_o lenity_n and_o thereupon_o to_o return_v again_o to_o our_o old_a vomit_n and_o uncleanness_n and_o therefore_o though_o it_o will_v have_v be_v more_o for_o the_o ease_n and_o interest_n of_o his_o bless_a son_n to_o have_v pardon_v we_o without_o any_o sacrifice_n at_o all_o yet_o such_o be_v his_o love_n to_o we_o that_o because_o he_o foresee_v that_o this_o way_n of_o pardon_v will_v prove_v fatal_a and_o dangerous_a to_o we_o he_o be_v resolve_v that_o he_o will_v not_o do_v it_o without_o be_v move_v thereunto_o by_o the_o great_a sacrifice_n the_o world_n can_v afford_v he_o and_o that_o no_o less_o a_o propitiation_n shall_v appease_v his_o wrath_n against_o offender_n than_o the_o blood_n of_o his_o own_o son_n that_o so_o by_o behold_v his_o severity_n against_o our_o sin_n in_o this_o unvaluable_a sacrifice_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o his_o son_n we_o may_v be_v sufficient_o terrify_v from_o return_v again_o to_o they_o by_o the_o very_a same_o reason_n that_o move_v he_o to_o pardon_v they_o that_o we_o may_v not_o think_v light_n of_o that_o which_o god_n will_v not_o forgive_v without_o such_o a_o vast_a consideration_n but_o may_v tremble_v to_o think_v of_o repeat_v those_o sin_n the_o price_n of_o who_o pardon_n be_v the_o dear_a blood_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n hence_o be_v that_o of_o the_o apostle_n rom._n iii._o 25_o 26._o who_o god_n have_v set_v forth_o to_o be_v a_o propitiation_n through_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n to_o declare_v his_o righteousness_n that_o be_v his_o righteous_a severity_n against_o sin_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v past_a through_o the_o forbearance_n of_o god_n to_o declare_v i_o say_v at_o this_o time_n his_o righteousness_n that_o he_o may_v be_v just_a that_o be_v sufficient_o severe_a against_o the_o sin_n of_o man_n so_o as_o to_o warn_v they_o from_o return_v and_o the_o justifier_n of_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o jesus_n so_o that_o now_o he_o have_v reduce_v thing_n to_o a_o excellent_a temper_n have_v so_o provide_v that_o neither_o himself_n nor_o we_o may_v be_v damnify_v that_o we_o may_v not_o suffer_v by_o our_o do_v again_o what_o we_o have_v do_v and_o that_o he_o may_v not_o suffer_v by_o our_o do_v still_o the_o same_o that_o he_o may_v be_v what_o he_o be_v a_o pure_a and_o a_o holy_a saviour_n and_o that_o we_o may_v be_v what_o we_o ought_v dutiful_a and_o obedient_a subject_n now_o what_o a_o amaze_a instance_n of_o god_n love_n be_v this_o that_o he_o shall_v so_o far_o consult_v the_o good_a of_o his_o creature_n as_o to_o sacrifice_v his_o own_o son_n to_o their_o benefit_n and_o safety_n how_o inexpressible_o must_v he_o needs_o love_v we_o that_o for_o our_o sake_n can_v behold_v his_o most_o dear_o belove_v son_n hang_v on_o the_o cross_n cover_v with_o wound_n and_o blood_n forsake_v by_o his_o friend_n despise_v and_o spit_v on_o by_o his_o barbarous_a enemy_n that_o can_v hear_v he_o complain_v in_o the_o bitterness_n of_o his_o soul_n my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o and_o yet_o suffer_v he_o to_o continue_v under_o that_o unsufferable_a agony_n till_o he_o have_v give_v up_o his_o white_a and_o innocent_a soul_n a_o unspotted_a sacrifice_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n yea_o that_o notwithstanding_o the_o infinite_a love_n that_o he_o bear_v he_o and_o the_o piteous_a moan_n that_o his_o torment_n force_v from_o he_o be_v so_o far_o from_o relieve_v he_o that_o for_o our_o sake_n he_o inflict_v upon_o he_o the_o utmost_a misery_n that_o human_a nature_n can_v bear_v that_o so_o have_v a_o experimental_a sense_n of_o the_o most_o grievous_a suffer_v that_o mankind_n be_v liable_a to_o and_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o utmost_a feel_n of_o our_o infirmity_n and_o in_o all_o point_v tempt_v like_o unto_o we_o he_o may_v carry_v a_o more_o tender_a commiseration_n for_o we_o to_o heaven_n and_o know_v the_o better_a how_o to_o pity_v we_o in_o all_o our_o grief_n and_o extremity_n for_o in_o all_o thing_n it_o behove_v he_o say_v the_o apostle_n to_o be_v make_v like_o unto_o his_o brethren_n that_o he_o may_v be_v a_o merciful_a and_o faithful_a high_a priest_n heb._n two_o 17_o hear_v o_o heaven_n and_o give_v ear_n o_o earth_n and_o let_v all_o the_o creation_n attend_v with_o astonishment_n to_o this_o stupendous_a story_n of_o love_n which_o so_o far_o exceed_v all_o the_o heroic_a kindness_n that_o ever_o any_o romance_n of_o friendship_n think_v of_o that_o no_o less_o evidence_n than_o that_o of_o miracle_n can_v have_v ever_o render_v it_o credible_a well_o then_o may_v the_o apostle_n say_v herein_o be_v love_n not_o that_o we_o love_v god_n for_o after_o such_o vast_a obligation_n this_o be_v no_o great_a wonder_n but_o that_o he_o love_v we_o and_o send_v his_o son_n to_o be_v the_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n 1_o joh._n four_o 10_o and_o thus_o you_o see_v what_o a_o unspeakable_a instance_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n his_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n be_v i_o shall_v now_o conclude_v this_o argument_n with_o a_o few_o practical_a inference_n from_o the_o whole_a 1._o from_o hence_o i_o infer_v what_o monstrous_a ingratitude_n it_o will_v be_v in_o we_o to_o deny_v any_o thing_n to_o god_n that_o he_o demand_v at_o our_o hand_n who_o have_v be_v so_o liberal_a to_o we_o as_o to_o give_v up_o his_o only_o beget_v son_n for_o our_o sake_n o_o bless_a god_n if_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o we_o to_o do_v or_o suffer_v for_o thou_o a_o thousand_o time_n more_o than_o at_o present_a we_o be_v able_a what_o a_o poor_a return_n be_v this_o for_o the_o gift_n of_o thy_o son_n that_o unspeakable_a expression_n of_o thy_o goodness_n and_o can_v we_o deny_v thou_o any_o thing_n after_o such_o a_o instance_n of_o love_n especial_o when_o thy_o demand_n be_v so_o gentle_a and_o reasonable_a when_o he_o require_v nothing_o of_o we_o but_o what_o be_v for_o our_o good_a and_o the_o requital_n he_o demand_v for_o all_o his_o love_n to_o we_o be_v only_o that_o we_o shall_v love_v ourselves_o and_o express_v this_o love_n in_o do_v those_o duty_n which_o he_o therefore_o enjoin_v because_o they_o tend_v to_o our_o happiness_n and_o avoid_v those_o sin_n which_o he_o therefore_o forbid_v because_o he_o know_v they_o will_v be_v our_o bane_n and_o poison_n can_v any_o of_o my_o lust_n be_v as_o dear_a to_o i_o as_o the_o only_o beget_v son_n be_v to_o the_o father_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o yet_o he_o part_v with_o he_o out_o of_o love_n to_o i_o and_o shall_v not_o i_o part_v with_o these_o for_o the_o love_n of_o he_o how_o can_v we_o pretend_v to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v modest_a or_o ingenuous_a tender_a or_o apprehensive_a in_o humane_a nature_n when_o nothing_o will_v oblige_v we_o no_o not_o this_o astonish_a love_n of_o god_n in_o send_v his_o son_n from_o heaven_n to_o live_v and_o die_v miserable_o for_o our_o sake_n lord_n what_o do_v thy_o holy_a angel_n think_v of_o we_o how_o do_v thy_o bless_a saint_n resent_v our_o unkindness_n towards_o thou_o yea_o how_o just_o do_v the_o devil_n themselves_o reproach_n and_o upbraid_v our_o baseness_n who_o bad_a as_o they_o be_v be_v never_o so_o much_o devil_n yet_o as_o to_o make_v a_o ungrateful_a return_n of_o such_o a_o vast_a obligation_n 2_o lie_v from_o hence_o i_o infer_v how_o desperate_a our_o condition_n will_v be_v if_o we_o defeat_v the_o end_n of_o this_o gift_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o render_v it_o ineffectual_a to_o we_o for_o god_n have_v no_o
as_o to_o obey_v it_o so_o that_o wheresoever_o faith_n be_v mention_v single_o as_o the_o condition_n of_o the_o gospel-covenant_n it_o be_v apparent_a it_o must_v be_v understand_v in_o the_o large_a sense_n as_o comprehend_v that_o obedience_n which_o be_v the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n of_o it_o so_o 1_o joh._n v_o 1_o whosoever_o believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n be_v bear_v of_o god_n that_o be_v whosevever_o so_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o this_o proposition_n as_o to_o practice_v upon_o it_o and_o govern_v his_o life_n and_o action_n according_a to_o the_o tenor_n and_o direction_n of_o it_o be_v true_o a_o child_n of_o god_n for_o he_o who_o believe_v christ_n to_o be_v the_o messiah_n but_o continue_v obstinate_o disobedient_a to_o his_o law_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v true_o and_o real_o a_o child_n of_o god_n that_o he_o thereby_o become_v ten_o time_n more_o a_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n for_o say_v the_o apostle_n if_o i_o have_v all_o faith_n and_o have_v not_o charity_n i_o be_o nothing_o and_o gal._n v._n 6_o for_o in_o jesus_n christ_n neither_o circumcision_n avail_v any_o thing_n nor_o uncircumcision_n but_o faith_n which_o work_v by_o love_n and_o if_o so_o then_o faith_n itself_o be_v nothing_o abstract_v from_o this_o bless_a effect_n of_o it_o i._n e._n work_v by_o love_n for_o in_o gal._n vi_fw-la 15_o he_o tell_v we_o that_o circumcision_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o new_a creature_n by_o which_o new_a creature_n he_o mean_v a_o obedient_a temper_n and_o disposition_n of_o mind_n as_o he_o plain_o tell_v we_o 1_o cor._n seven_o 19_o circumcision_n be_v nothing_o and_o uncircumcision_n be_v nothing_o but_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n so_o that_o by_o these_o different_a variation_n of_o expression_n it_o be_v apparent_a that_o by_o faith_n as_o significant_a in_o the_o account_n of_o christ_n he_o always_o mean_v a_o work_a faith_n the_o effect_n of_o which_o be_v the_o new_a creature_n or_o keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o first_o thing_n propose_v which_o be_v to_o show_v you_o what_o be_v include_v in_o this_o condition_n whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o which_o you_o see_v be_v not_o to_o be_v confine_v to_o a_o bare_a and_o naked_a belief_n of_o he_o but_o must_v be_v extend_v further_o even_o to_o that_o whole_a course_n of_o obedience_n which_o be_v the_o natural_a effect_n of_o such_o a_o belief_n so_o that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v whosoever_o so_o believe_v in_o he_o as_o sincere_o and_o universal_o to_o obey_v he_o 2._o i_o proceed_v now_o to_o the_o next_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o show_v you_o how_o good_a god_n have_v be_v to_o we_o in_o make_v the_o condition_n which_o he_o have_v impose_v upon_o we_o so_o gentle_a and_o merciful_a and_o this_o will_v appear_v if_o we_o consider_v these_o five_o thing_n 1._o that_o he_o have_v put_v nothing_o into_o this_o condition_n but_o what_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n exceed_v good_a for_o we_o 2._o that_o he_o have_v most_o merciful_o proportion_v the_o whole_a to_o the_o present_a state_n and_o circumstance_n of_o our_o nature_n 3._o that_o he_o have_v render_v the_o whole_a almost_o necessary_o consequent_a to_o our_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ._n 4._o that_o to_o beget_v that_o belief_n in_o we_o he_o have_v give_v we_o the_o most_o plain_a and_o convince_a evidence_n 5._o that_o to_o render_v this_o belief_n operative_a he_o have_v engage_v himself_o to_o assist_v actuate_v and_o inlve_v it_o by_o his_o owe_v immediate_a concurrence_n 1._o that_o god_n have_v put_v nothing_o into_o this_o condition_n but_o what_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n exceed_v good_a for_o we_o for_o there_o be_v no_o precept_n in_o all_o the_o gospel_n but_o what_o contain_v either_o some_o effectual_a mean_n or_o apparent_a instance_n of_o what_o be_v moral_o and_o eternal_o good_a and_o whatsoever_o be_v moral_o good_a be_v natural_o so_o for_o the_o moral_a goodness_n of_o thing_n consist_v in_o the_o fitness_n and_o reasonableness_n of_o they_o and_o that_o which_o be_v the_o moral_a good_a or_o duty_n of_o man_n consist_v in_o do_v that_o which_o be_v eternal_o fit_a and_o reasonable_a for_o they_o consider_v the_o frame_n and_o circumstance_n of_o their_o nature_n and_o the_o different_a relation_n wherein_o they_o be_v place_v in_o the_o world_n but_o now_o for_o man_n to_o do_v what_o be_v eternal_o fit_a and_o reasonable_a be_v natural_o good_a for_o and_o beneficial_a to_o themselves_o because_o by_o so_o do_v they_o perfect_a and_o advance_v their_o nature_n and_o accomplish_v their_o own_o satisfaction_n and_o happiness_n for_o our_o reason_n be_v that_o proper_a character_n of_o our_o nature_n that_o distinguish_v we_o from_o all_o sublunary_a being_n and_o set_v we_o in_o a_o form_n of_o be_v above_o they_o the_o perfection_n of_o our_o nature_n must_v necessary_o consist_v in_o be_v perfect_o reasonable_a in_o have_v our_o understand_n inform_v with_o the_o principle_n of_o right_a reason_n and_o our_o will_n and_o affection_n regulate_v by_o they_o and_o when_o once_o we_o be_v release_v from_o the_o slavery_n of_o sense_n and_o passion_n and_o all_o our_o power_n be_v so_o perfect_o subdue_v to_o this_o superior_a principle_n of_o reason_n as_o to_o do_v every_o thing_n that_o it_o command_v and_o nothing_o that_o it_o forbid_v and_o we_o choose_v and_o refuse_v and_o love_n and_o hate_v and_o hope_v and_o fear_v and_o delight_n according_a as_o right_a reason_n direct_v and_o dictate_v then_o and_o not_o till_o then_o we_o be_v come_v to_o the_o full_a stature_n of_o perfect_a man_n in_o christ_n jesus_n now_o all_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v a_o reasonable_a service_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o rom._n twelve_o 1_o the_o end_n and_o tendency_n of_o it_o must_v be_v to_o habituate_v we_o to_o live_v according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o right_a reason_n which_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o advance_v we_o to_o the_o perfection_n of_o reasonable_a being_n and_o be_v once_o arrive_v at_o this_o we_o shall_v find_v unspeakable_a satisfaction_n from_o within_o ourselves_o and_o feel_v a_o heaven_n of_o joy_n spring_v up_o within_o our_o own_o bosom_n for_o when_o once_o our_o disjoint_a power_n be_v set_v in_o order_n and_o all_o our_o faculty_n reduce_v to_o their_o natural_a subordination_n our_o nature_n will_v be_v in_o perfect_a rest_n and_o ease_n be_v free_v from_o that_o unnatural_a violence_n and_o oppression_n under_o which_o it_o now_o groan_n and_o cure_v of_o all_o those_o spasm_n and_o convulsion_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o its_o lapse_n and_o degeneracy_n and_o all_o the_o motion_n of_o our_o will_n and_o affection_n be_v regulate_v by_o the_o eternal_a reason_n of_o our_o mind_n with_o what_o delightful_a relish_v and_o sweet_a gust_n of_o pleasure_n shall_v we_o taste_v and_o review_v our_o own_o action_n they_o be_v always_o such_o as_o our_o best_a and_o pure_a reason_n do_v approve_v of_o with_o a_o full_a and_o ungainsay_v judgement_n so_o that_o god_n command_n you_o see_v be_v all_o of_o they_o most_o reasonable_a must_v necessary_o tend_v to_o the_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n of_o our_o nature_n beside_o that_o they_o general_o promote_v even_o our_o sensitive_a happiness_n our_o pleasure_n and_o profit_n and_o reputation_n in_o this_o world_n now_o what_o a_o most_o endear_n instance_n be_v this_o of_o god_n goodness_n towards_o we_o that_o he_o shall_v make_v our_o benefit_n the_o measure_n of_o our_o duty_n and_o oblige_v we_o to_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v for_o our_o good_a that_o he_o shall_v so_o far_o concern_v himself_o in_o our_o happiness_n as_o to_o impose_v it_o upon_o we_o under_o the_o penalty_n of_o his_o severe_a displeasure_n and_o to_o enforce_v his_o law_n with_o such_o invite_v and_o such_o dreadful_a sanction_n only_o to_o secure_v we_o from_o run_v away_o from_o our_o own_o mercy_n so_o that_o to_o be_v a_o christian_n be_v in_o effect_n nothing_o else_o but_o only_o to_o be_v oblige_v to_o be_v kind_a to_o ourselves_o and_o bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o be_v happy_a good_a god_n that_o thou_o shall_v be_v so_o infinite_o zealous_a of_o our_o welfare_n as_o to_o make_v the_o mean_n of_o it_o the_o only_a matter_n of_o thy_o law_n and_o to_o promise_v such_o vast_a reward_n and_o denounce_v such_o dreadful_a punishment_n against_o we_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o only_o to_o affright_v and_o allure_v we_o out_o of_o misery_n into_o happiness_n that_o thou_o shall_v hate_v our_o sin_n so_o implacable_o only_o because_o they_o be_v our_o irreconcilable_a enemy_n and_o be_v so_o infinite_o please_v with_o our_o obedience_n only_o because_o it_o lead_v to_o our_o
into_o the_o flame_n of_o hell_n so_o careful_a have_v the_o good_a god_n be_v to_o plot_n and_o contrive_v for_o the_o welfare_n of_o his_o creature_n that_o he_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o pardon_v they_o when_o they_o have_v offend_v he_o but_o in_o such_o a_o way_n as_o be_v most_o for_o their_o security_n and_o good_n 3_o dly_z his_o consent_n that_o his_o own_o son_n shall_v submit_v himself_o to_o this_o suffer_v be_v another_o great_a instance_n of_o his_o goodness_n towards_o we_o in_o this_o method_n of_o pardon_v we_o that_o he_o shall_v not_o only_o admit_v of_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o bear_v our_o transgression_n and_o suffer_v in_o our_o stead_n but_o that_o himself_o shall_v provide_v one_o for_o we_o and_o such_o a_o one_o too_o as_o his_o own_o most_o dear_a and_o precious_a son_n be_v such_o a_o miracle_n of_o love_n and_o goodness_n as_o the_o whole_a creation_n can_v parallel_v for_o though_o mankind_n have_v provoke_v he_o to_o that_o height_n that_o none_o but_o a_o god_n of_o infinite_a patience_n can_v have_v bear_v it_o yet_o such_o be_v his_o unwillingness_n to_o inflict_v that_o direful_a punishment_n upon_o they_o which_o he_o have_v just_o threaten_v and_o they_o have_v just_o deserve_v that_o notwithstanding_o all_o their_o demerit_n he_o be_v still_o vehement_o incline_v to_o be_v propitious_a to_o they_o but_o then_o how_o to_o save_v they_o and_o at_o the_o same_o time_n so_o to_o manifest_v his_o severity_n against_o their_o sin_n as_o be_v needful_a to_o preserve_v the_o authority_n and_o honour_n of_o his_o law_n that_o have_v threaten_v destruction_n to_o they_o be_v the_o great_a difficulty_n for_o shall_v he_o have_v whole_o omit_v the_o punishment_n he_o will_v have_v very_o much_o undervalue_v the_o authority_n of_o his_o law_n in_o the_o esteem_n of_o his_o subject_n the_o main_a security_n of_o their_o authority_n be_v the_o punishment_n annex_v to_o they_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_n shall_v he_o have_v exact_v the_o utmost_a of_o the_o punishment_n he_o must_v have_v destroy_v the_o whole_a race_n of_o man_n we_o be_v all_o offender_n in_o his_o sight_n in_o this_o extremity_n therefore_o that_o he_o may_v pardon_v such_o a_o world_n of_o sinner_n with_o safety_n to_o his_o government_n it_o be_v high_o necessary_a for_o he_o to_o exhibit_v to_o the_o world_n some_o dreadful_a example_n of_o his_o severity_n against_o they_o such_o as_o may_v be_v sufficient_a to_o prevent_v offender_n from_o take_v any_o encouragement_n from_o his_o pardon_v they_o to_o offend_v again_o but_o to_o make_v a_o sinner_n such_o a_o great_a example_n of_o his_o severity_n against_o the_o sin_n of_o other_o be_v impossible_a because_o his_o own_o sin_n may_v deserve_v the_o utmost_a severity_n that_o god_n can_v inflict_v upon_o he_o and_o therefore_o among_o ourselves_o who_o be_v all_o sinner_n there_o be_v no_o person_n can_v be_v find_v fit_a to_o be_v make_v such_o a_o example_n of_o his_o severity_n against_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o if_o a_o innocent_a angel_n shall_v have_v free_o offer_v up_o himself_o to_o bear_v our_o punishment_n and_o suffer_v in_o our_o stead_n his_o suffer_v in_o our_o room_n will_v not_o have_v so_o sufficient_o express_v god_n severity_n against_o the_o sin_n of_o a_o whole_a world_n of_o sinner_n as_o be_v convenient_a for_o what_o great_a severity_n will_v it_o have_v be_v to_o have_v exact_v the_o suffering_n of_o one_o innocent_a angel_n in_o lieu_n of_o that_o eternal_a punishment_n that_o be_v due_a to_o a_o whole_a world_n of_o man_n wherefore_o it_o be_v high_o convenient_a that_o the_o dignity_n of_o the_o person_n who_o suffer_v for_o we_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o may_v render_v his_o suffer_v in_o some_o degree_n proportionable_a to_o the_o punishment_n due_a to_o our_o sin_n that_o so_o his_o suffer_v in_o our_o stead_n may_v be_v as_o exemplary_a to_o the_o world_n as_o if_o we_o ourselves_o have_v suffer_v to_o the_o utmost_a of_o our_o desert_n and_o there_o be_v no_o creature_n of_o that_o dignity_n either_o in_o heaven_n or_o earth_n in_o this_o extremity_n the_o eternal_a son_n of_o god_n himself_o interpose_v and_o free_o offer_v to_o unite_v himself_o to_o our_o nature_n and_o therein_o to_o suffer_v in_o our_o stead_n upon_o condition_n that_o on_o our_o unfeigned_a repentance_n and_o amendment_n a_o free_a charter_n of_o pardon_n may_v be_v grant_v for_o all_o our_o past_a provocation_n so_o that_o now_o a_o expedient_a be_v propose_v by_o which_o god_n may_v both_o pardon_v our_o sin_n and_o sufficient_o manifest_v his_o severity_n against_o they_o to_o secure_v the_o authority_n of_o his_o law_n and_o deter_v we_o from_o sin_v again_o though_o he_o see_v how_o dear_a a_o expedient_a it_o will_v prove_v that_o it_o will_v cost_v he_o the_o most_o precious_a blood_n of_o his_o own_o son_n yet_o such_o be_v his_o tender_a pity_n towards_o we_o so_o great_a his_o unwillingness_n to_o ruin_v we_o forever_o that_o he_o free_o comply_v with_o the_o motion_n and_o consent_v that_o his_o son_n shall_v be_v sacrifice_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v say_v that_o he_o spare_v not_o his_o own_o son_n but_o deliver_v he_o up_o for_o we_o all_o rom._n viij_o 32_o and_o the_o reason_n why_o he_o deliver_v he_o up_o as_o he_o tell_v we_o v_o 3_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n be_v to_o condemn_v sin_n in_o the_o flesh_n that_o be_v to_o pronounce_v in_o the_o suffer_v of_o his_o own_o son_n for_o it_o what_o a_o dreadful_a punishment_n it_o deserve_v and_o how_o much_o his_o soul_n be_v incense_v against_o it_o that_o will_v not_o pardon_v it_o without_o such_o a_o mighty_a propitiation_n how_o inexpressible_o gracious_a therefore_o have_v god_n be_v to_o we_o that_o when_o for_o the_o secure_v the_o authority_n of_o his_o law_n it_o be_v so_o necessary_a to_o condemn_v our_o sin_n rather_o than_o condemn_v they_o in_o our_o own_o personal_a punishment_n he_o shall_v choose_v to_o condemn_v they_o in_o the_o suffering_n of_o his_o own_o son_n it_o be_v a_o great_a instance_n of_o his_o goodness_n towards_o we_o to_o admit_v of_o another_o to_o suffer_v for_o we_o in_o our_o stead_n but_o to_o admit_v of_o his_o own_o son_n who_o be_v the_o darling_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o delight_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o free_o to_o give_v and_o deliver_v he_o up_o for_o we_o and_o amid_o all_o the_o yearning_n of_o his_o fatherly_a bowel_n towards_o he_o not_o to_o spare_v his_o precious_a life_n when_o it_o be_v to_o be_v make_v the_o price_n of_o our_o redemption_n be_v such_o a_o miracle_n of_o love_n as_o transcend_v all_o hyperbole_n 4_o lie_n and_o last_o his_o choose_n to_o grant_v pardon_n to_o we_o upon_o the_o suffering_n of_o his_o son_n as_o a_o sacrifice_n for_o our_o sin_n be_v also_o another_o great_a instance_n of_o his_o goodness_n to_o we_o in_o this_o way_n of_o pardon_v we_o for_o the_o end_n of_o grant_v pardon_n to_o sinner_n upon_o their_o repentance_n be_v to_o encourage_v they_o to_o repent_v it_o be_v high_o convenient_a to_o grant_v it_o to_o they_o in_o such_o a_o way_n and_o upon_o such_o reason_n as_o might_n most_o effectual_o assure_v they_o thereof_o and_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o general_a persuasion_n of_o mankind_n in_o this_o matter_n there_o be_v no_o such_o effectual_a way_n to_o secure_v they_o of_o pardon_n upon_o their_o repentance_n as_o this_o of_o grant_v pardon_n to_o they_o upon_o the_o motive_n of_o a_o sacrifice_n for_o their_o sin_n for_o however_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v i_o know_v not_o but_o it_o be_v a_o principle_n general_o receive_v by_o man_n of_o all_o nation_n and_o religion_n that_o to_o appease_v the_o incense_a divinity_n it_o be_v necessary_a first_o that_o some_o sacrifice_n shall_v be_v make_v to_o he_o for_o their_o sin_n and_o then_o that_o some_o high_a favourite_n of_o he_o shall_v intercede_v with_o he_o in_o their_o be_n half_a upon_o which_o be_v found_v those_o two_o great_a right_n of_o propitiatory_a sacrifice_n and_o worship_v of_o demon_n which_o make_v up_o a_o great_a part_n of_o all_o the_o heathenish_a religion_n in_o the_o world_n for_o as_o for_o propitiatory_a sacrifice_n they_o be_v general_o use_v not_o only_o by_o the_o barbarous_a but_o by_o the_o most_o civilise_a heathen_n which_o sacrifice_n they_o devote_v unto_o god_n to_o be_v their_o proxy_n in_o punishment_n to_o undergo_v the_o punishment_n that_o be_v due_a to_o they_o for_o their_o own_o sin_n and_o hence_o be_v that_o of_o the_o ancient_a poet_n cum_fw-la sis_fw-la ipse_fw-la nocens_fw-la moritur_fw-la cur_n victima_fw-la pro_fw-la te_fw-la when_o thou_o thyself_o be_v the_o offender_n for_o what_o reason_n shall_v the_o victim_n die_v for_o thou_o and_o
so_o as_o to_o receive_v you_o into_o grace_n and_o favour_n but_o when_o by_o send_v his_o own_o son_n to_o die_v for_o we_o he_o have_v give_v we_o so_o plain_a a_o proof_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o his_o affection_n towards_o we_o with_o what_o face_n can_v we_o suspect_v his_o kindness_n for_o be_v it_o likely_a that_o he_o who_o be_v so_o good_a as_o to_o give_v his_o son_n for_o we_o whilst_o we_o be_v in_o impenitence_n shall_v be_v so_o implacable_a as_o to_o deny_v his_o love_n to_o we_o upon_o our_o repentance_n and_o amendment_n be_v it_o not_o a_o much_o high_a act_n of_o love_n to_o give_v his_o son_n for_o sinner_n than_o to_o receive_v poor_a prostrate_a penitent_n into_o favour_n he_o then_o who_o be_v so_o free_a to_o do_v the_o former_a we_o may_v well_o imagine_v will_v be_v much_o more_o free_a to_o do_v the_o latter_a or_o last_o dare_v we_o plead_v for_o ourselves_o that_o consider_v the_o anxiousness_n and_o jealousy_n of_o guilty_a mind_n god_n have_v not_o give_v we_o such_o security_n of_o his_o readiness_n to_o pardon_v and_o be_v reconcile_v to_o we_o as_o be_v requisite_a to_o dispel_v all_o those_o fear_n and_o doubt_n by_o which_o we_o be_v discourage_v from_o repentance_n and_o amendment_n but_o how_o weak_a and_o groundless_a this_o plea_n be_v will_v soon_o appear_v to_o all_o the_o world_n when_o it_o shall_v be_v consider_v what_o a_o effectual_a course_n god_n take_v to_o obviate_v all_o our_o doubt_n and_o fear_n by_o pardon_v we_o in_o our_o own_o method_n namely_o upon_o the_o motive_n of_o a_o sacrifice_n and_o intercession_n of_o a_o mediator_n especial_o of_o such_o a_o sacrifice_n and_o mediator_n as_o his_o own_o son_n for_o let_v he_o be_v never_o so_o severe_a and_o stern_a yet_o it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v be_v inexorable_a to_o the_o vocal_a blood_n and_o importunate_a intercession_n of_o that_o dear_a person_n who_o he_o love_v above_o all_o the_o world_n and_o now_o when_o god_n have_v so_o contrive_v the_o method_n of_o his_o pardon_v we_o as_o to_o take_v from_o we_o all_o occasion_n either_o of_o presume_v upon_o his_o mercy_n whilst_o we_o continue_v impenitent_a when_o he_o have_v take_v such_o a_o effectual_a course_n to_o raise_v both_o our_o hope_n and_o fear_n which_o be_v the_o spring_n of_o our_o action_n to_o their_o high_a pitch_n and_o capacity_n and_o give_v we_o the_o great_a certainty_n that_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n will_v bear_v that_o he_o will_v punish_v we_o for_o ever_o if_o we_o sin_n on_o and_o pardon_v and_o receive_v we_o into_o favour_n if_o now_o at_o last_o we_o will_v repent_v and_o return_v what_o can_v we_o say_v for_o ourselves_o if_o in_o despite_n of_o all_o this_o we_o will_v run_v from_o mercy_n whilst_o its_o arm_n be_v open_a to_o embrace_v we_o and_o leap_v into_o hell_n with_o our_o eye_n open_a and_o we_o see_v it_o gape_v ready_a to_o devour_v we_o john_n iii_o 16_o but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n i_o be_o now_o upon_o the_o last_o branch_n of_o the_o text_n which_o be_v to_o show_v you_o the_o great_a goodness_n of_o god_n to_o we_o in_o promise_v to_o we_o such_o a_o vast_a reward_n upon_o our_o perform_v such_o a_o easy_a condition_n as_o our_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o which_o reward_n there_o be_v first_o the_o privative_a part_n of_o it_o or_o the_o misery_n it_o rescue_v we_o from_o that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v not_o perish_v second_o the_o positive_a or_o the_o happiness_n it_o instate_v we_o in_o but_o have_v everlasting_a life_n in_o the_o management_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v do_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o show_v you_o why_o this_o reward_n be_v term_v everlasting_a life_n 2._o how_o unspeakable_o good_a god_n have_v be_v to_o we_o in_o propose_v to_o we_o such_o a_o vast_a reward_n 1._o why_o this_o reward_n be_v style_v by_o the_o name_n of_o everlasting_a life_n for_o it_o be_v very_o usual_a with_o scripture_n to_o express_v all_o the_o blessing_n it_o promise_v to_o man_n by_o the_o name_n of_o life_n for_o thus_o by_o life_n the_o old_a testament_n very_o frequent_o express_v those_o temporal_a blessing_n which_o be_v therein_o promise_v and_o propose_v so_o deut._n thirty_o 15_o see_v i_o have_v set_v before_o thou_o this_o day_n life_n and_o good_a and_o death_n and_o evil_a in_o which_o he_o plain_o refer_v to_o those_o temporal_a blessing_n and_o curse_n which_o he_o have_v propose_v to_o and_o denounce_v against_o they_o chap._n xxviii_o for_o so_o v._n 19_o of_o this_o chapter_n he_o explain_v himself_o i_o call_v heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o record_v this_o day_n against_o you_o that_o i_o have_v set_v before_o you_o life_n and_o death_n blessing_n and_o curse_v therefore_o choose_v life_n that_o both_o thou_o and_o thy_o seed_n may_v live_v so_o levit._n xviii_o 5_o you_o shall_v keep_v my_o statute_n and_o my_o judgement_n which_o if_o a_o man_n do_v he_o shall_v live_v in_o they_o that_o be_v he_o shall_v enjoy_v all_o those_o temporal_a blessing_n which_o i_o have_v therein_o promise_v for_o so_o ezek._n xx_o 21_o their_o live_n in_o they_o be_v oppose_v to_o his_o pour_v out_o temporal_a judgement_n upon_o they_o and_o hence_o the_o statute_n of_o the_o mosaic_a law_n be_v call_v the_o statute_n of_o life_n in_o which_o whosoever_o walk_v shall_v sure_o live_v and_o not_o die_v ezek._n xxxiii_o 15_o and_o as_o these_o temporal_a blessing_n promise_v in_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v common_o express_v by_o life_n so_o those_o eternal_a blessing_n promise_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v very_o frequent_o express_v by_o life_n also_o so_o mat._n xviii_o 8_o it_o be_v better_a for_o thou_o to_o enter_v into_o life_n halt_v or_o maim_a rather_o than_o have_v two_o hand_n or_o two_o foot_n to_o be_v cast_v into_o everlasting_a fire_n so_o also_o mat._n nineteeen_o 17_o if_o thou_o will_v enter_v into_o life_n keep_v the_o commandment_n and_o joh._n iii._o 36_o he_o that_o believe_v on_o the_o son_n have_v everlasting_a life_n and_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o the_o son_n shall_v not_o see_v life_n but_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n abide_v on_o he_o and_o because_o the_o blessing_n which_o the_o gospel_n propose_v be_v not_o temporal_a but_o eternal_a therefore_o that_o life_n by_o which_o they_o be_v express_v be_v style_v eternal_a everlasting_a and_o immortal_a for_o so_o 2_o tim._n i_o 10_o we_o find_v life_n and_o immortality_n join_v together_o and_o rom._n vi_fw-la 22_o you_o have_v your_o fruit_n unto_o holiness_n and_o the_o end_n everlasting_a life_n and_o vers._n 23._o the_o gift_n of_o god_n be_v eternal_a life_n now_o that_o it_o be_v not_o call_v eternal_a life_n mere_o as_o it_o be_v a_o state_n of_o endless_a be_v and_o existence_n be_v evident_a because_o be_v and_o existence_n be_v indifferent_a thing_n abstract_v from_o all_o sense_n of_o happiness_n and_o misery_n but_o eternal_a life_n be_v propose_v to_o we_o as_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v infinite_o desirable_a in_o self_n as_o be_v the_o crown_n and_o reward_n of_o all_o our_o obedience_n for_o which_o reason_n it_o be_v call_v the_o crown_n of_o life_n jam._n i._n 12_o and_o therefore_o the_o reason_n why_o the_o everlasting_a blessing_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v express_v by_o life_n be_v first_o because_o of_o the_o inestimable_a worth_n and_o value_n of_o life_n second_o because_o life_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o our_o sense_n of_o pleasure_n and_o happiness_n three_o because_o it_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o our_o activity_n 1._o the_o everlasting_a blessing_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v call_v life_n because_o life_n be_v the_o most_o inestimable_o precious_a of_o all_o the_o blessing_n we_o enjoy_v for_o without_o life_n there_o be_v nothing_o can_v be_v a_o real_a blessing_n to_o we_o nothing_o that_o we_o can_v taste_v relish_n or_o enjoy_v and_o this_o the_o devil_n know_v well_o enough_o when_o he_o pronounce_v so_o confident_o skin_n for_o skin_n yea_o all_o that_o a_o man_n have_v will_v he_o give_v for_o his_o life_n job_n two_o 4_o now_o it_o be_v usual_a with_o scripture_n to_o describe_v the_o blessing_n of_o the_o future_a state_n by_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o the_o great_a value_n among_o man_n by_o riches_n and_o treasure_n by_o a_o crown_n and_o a_o kingdom_n by_o a_o paradise_n or_o a_o garden_n of_o pleasure_n but_o as_o if_o all_o these_o be_v too_o faint_a and_o dim_a to_o represent_v the_o true_a value_n of_o that_o bless_a state_n it_o be_v style_v life_n also_o which_o be_v much_o more_o valuable_a than_o either_o yea_o than_o all_o those_o thing_n together_o and_o hence_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o a_o more_o exceed_o and_o eternal_a weight_n of_o glory_n 2_o cor._n four_o 17_o 2._o it_o be_v call_v life_n
because_o life_n be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o our_o sense_n of_o pleasure_n and_o happiness_n for_o without_o life_n we_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o lump_n of_o stupid_a and_o insensible_a flesh_n incapable_a of_o perceive_v either_o pleasure_n or_o pain_n so_o that_o all_o sensation_n be_v found_v in_o life_n and_o all_o pleasure_n a_o sweet_a and_o grateful_a sensation_n by_o a_o very_a easy_a figure_n the_o natural_a effect_n and_o operation_n of_o life_n be_v express_v by_o life_n and_o indeed_o all_o the_o advantage_n of_o live_v consist_v in_o live_v in_o a_o sense_n of_o pleasure_n and_o therefore_o it_o have_v be_v very_o much_o dispute_v among_o philosopher_n whether_o this_o temporary_a state_n of_o we_o in_o which_o there_o be_v so_o great_a a_o intermixture_n of_o pain_n with_o pleasure_n and_o misery_n with_o happiness_n do_v not_o better_o deserve_v the_o name_n of_o death_n than_o life_n and_o those_o of_o they_o who_o think_v it_o more_o liable_a to_o misery_n than_o happiness_n affirm_v it_o to_o be_v a_o state_n of_o death_n and_o strict_o maintain_v this_o paradox_n that_o at_o our_o birth_n we_o die_v into_o a_o worse_a state_n than_o nonexistence_n and_o at_o our_o death_n be_v bear_v into_o a_o true_a and_o proper_a state_n of_o life_n but_o they_o who_o count_v our_o present_a life_n to_o be_v intermix_v with_o more_o pleasure_n than_o misery_n esteem_v our_o present_a existence_n a_o privilege_n deserve_v the_o name_n of_o life_n which_o be_v a_o argument_n that_o both_o place_v all_o the_o privilege_n of_o live_v in_o those_o pleasant_a perception_n that_o be_v found_v in_o it_o and_o thus_o also_o according_a to_o the_o scripture_n philosophy_n to_o live_v as_o it_o import_v advantage_n to_o we_o be_v to_o live_v in_o a_o state_n of_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n so_o psal._n xxii_o 26_o the_o meek_a shall_v eat_v and_o be_v satisfy_v they_o shall_v praise_v the_o lord_n that_o seek_v he_o your_o heart_n shall_v live_v for_o ever_o that_o be_v you_o shall_v so_o abound_v with_o matter_n of_o joy_n and_o praise_n that_o your_o heart_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v and_o content_v for_o ever_o so_o joh._n fourteen_o 19_o because_o i_o live_v you_o shall_v live_v also_o that_o be_v because_o i_o rise_v from_o the_o dead_a and_o live_v for_o ever_o you_o shall_v rejoice_v and_o be_v glad_a so_o also_o 1_o thes._n three_o 8_o for_o now_o we_o live_v if_o you_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v we_o rejoice_v in_o your_o constancy_n and_o perseverance_n for_o so_o it_o follow_v immediate_o after_o for_o what_o thanks_o can_v we_o render_v to_o god_n again_o for_o you_o for_o all_o the_o joy_n wherewith_o we_o joy_v for_o your_o sake_n before_o god_n how_o proper_o therefore_o may_v the_o future_a state_n be_v express_v by_o life_n since_o it_o be_v the_o proper_a scene_n of_o happiness_n where_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n do_v for_o ever_o abound_v where_o there_o be_v a_o inexhaustible_a spring_n of_o pure_a unmingled_a delight_n issue_v forth_o in_o river_n of_o pleasure_n from_o god_n right_a hand_n for_o ever_o so_o that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n worthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o life_n it_o be_v the_o blissful_a state_n of_o those_o happy_a soul_n above_o who_o live_v in_o the_o continue_a sense_n of_o all_o those_o unspeakable_a joy_n and_o comfort_n that_o a_o everlasting_a heaven_n import_v 3_o dly_z and_o last_o it_o be_v call_v life_n because_o life_n be_v the_o principle_n of_o all_o activity_n it_o be_v this_o that_o inlivens_fw-la all_o our_o instrument_n of_o action_n and_o communicate_v motion_n to_o all_o our_o faculty_n and_o power_n and_o hence_o the_o state_n of_o heaven_n may_v well_o be_v call_v the_o state_n of_o life_n because_o it_o be_v a_o state_n of_o the_o high_a activity_n wherein_o all_o our_o faculty_n act_v with_o unspeakable_a vigour_n be_v free_v from_o all_o that_o weight_n of_o sin_n and_o matter_n that_o here_o do_v continual_o clog_v and_o encumber_v they_o and_o entertain_v with_o such_o agreeable_a object_n as_o do_v perpetual_o employ_v and_o exercise_v they_o to_o the_o utmost_a of_o their_o strength_n and_o activity_n where_o infinite_a truth_n and_o infinite_a goodness_n be_v always_o in_o our_o view_n and_o prospect_n will_v continual_o draw_v forth_o the_o utmost_a force_n of_o our_o understand_n will_n and_o affection_n in_o the_o most_o rapturous_a contemplation_n fruition_n and_o embracement_n of_o that_o all-glorious_a object_n in_o which_o we_o behold_v they_o so_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o only_a act_n suitable_o to_o the_o genius_n of_o our_o rational_a nature_n but_o in_o every_o act_n shall_v exert_v our_o utmost_a activity_n and_o know_v and_o love_n and_o rejoice_v and_o delight_n as_o much_o as_o ever_o we_o be_v able_a wherefore_o since_o in_o that_o bless_a state_n we_o shall_v be_v all_o life_n and_o spirit_n and_o wing_n since_o all_o our_o rational_a faculty_n shall_v be_v most_o incessant_o and_o vigorous_o employ_v about_o the_o most_o agreeable_a and_o consentaneous_a object_n we_o be_v convert_v as_o it_o be_v into_o pure_a act_n of_o knowledge_n and_o love_n and_o joy_n and_o satisfaction_n our_o state_n and_o condition_n may_v be_v very_o well_o express_v by_o life_n which_o be_v a_o most_o vigorous_a principle_n of_o activity_n so_o that_o as_o life_n be_v the_o most_o inestimable_a jewel_n we_o have_v as_o it_o be_v the_o root_n of_o all_o our_o sense_n of_o pleasure_n and_o the_o principle_n of_o all_o our_o activity_n it_o do_v most_o proper_o express_v the_o infinite_a value_n pleasure_n and_o activity_n of_o that_o blissful_a state_n which_o god_n have_v prepare_v to_o reward_v our_o obedience_n and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o first_o thing_n propose_v which_o be_v to_o show_v you_o for_o what_o reason_n the_o eternal_a reward_n of_o the_o bless_a be_v so_o frequent_o express_v by_o everlasting_a life_n 2._o i_o proceed_v now_o to_o show_v you_o in_o the_o second_o place_n how_o unspeakable_o good_a god_n have_v be_v to_o we_o in_o propose_v such_o a_o vast_a reward_n upon_o the_o performance_n of_o such_o a_o easy_a condition_n in_o the_o management_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v first_o discourse_v of_o this_o reward_n absolute_o and_o show_v you_o how_o great_a it_o be_v in_o itself_o second_o comparative_o and_o show_v you_o how_o great_a it_o be_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o condition_n upon_o which_o it_o be_v promise_v 1._o we_o will_v consider_v it_o absolute_o how_o great_a it_o be_v in_o its_o self_n and_o here_o i_o do_v not_o pretend_v to_o give_v you_o a_o perfect_a map_n of_o all_o the_o beatitude_n of_o that_o heavenly_a state_n for_o that_o be_v a_o talk_v fit_a only_o for_o a_o angel_n or_o a_o glorify_a spirit_n all_o i_o aim_v at_o be_v to_o give_v you_o such_o a_o imperfect_a account_n of_o it_o as_o god_n have_v think_v fit_a to_o impart_v to_o mortal_n in_o the_o scripture_n which_o though_o it_o fall_v infinite_o short_a of_o the_o thing_n itself_o yet_o be_v doubtless_o the_o best_a and_o utmost_a that_o our_o narrow_a capacity_n can_v bear_v in_o short_a therefore_o concern_v this_o bless_a state_n god_n have_v reveal_v to_o we_o that_o it_o include_v these_o six_o thing_n 1._o a_o perfect_a freedom_n from_o evil_a and_o misery_n 2._o a_o most_o intimate_a enjoyment_n of_o himself_o 3_o a_o most_o endear_n fruition_n of_o our_o glorify_a saviour_n 4._o a_o most_o delightful_a conversation_n with_o angel_n and_o glorify_a spirit_n 5._o the_o infinite_a glory_n and_o delightfulness_n of_o the_o place_n wherein_o all_o these_o felicity_n be_v to_o be_v enjoy_v 6._o the_o endless_a duration_n of_o this_o most_o bless_a and_o happy_a state_n 1._o everlasting_a life_n include_v a_o most_o perfect_a freedom_n from_o evil_a and_o misery_n for_o so_o we_o find_v the_o state_n of_o the_o bless_a in_o heaven_n describe_v that_o they_o hunger_n no_o more_o neither_o thirst_v any_o more_o that_o the_o sun_n light_v not_o on_o they_o nor_o any_o heat_n that_o be_v that_o they_o be_v no_o long_o liable_a to_o the_o scorch_a heat_n of_o persecution_n but_o that_o god_n have_v wipe_v away_o all_o tear_n from_o their_o eye_n rev._n seven_o 16.17_o and_o hence_o also_o heaven_n be_v call_v a_o state_n of_o rest_n heb._n four_o 9_o 11._o there_o remain_v therefore_o a_o rest_n to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n let_v we_o labour_v therefore_o to_o enter_v into_o that_o rest_n which_o denote_v this_o state_n to_o be_v a_o perfect_a sabbath_n and_o jubilee_n of_o redemption_n from_o all_o evil_a and_o misery_n for_o as_o soon_o as_o the_o soul_n of_o good_a man_n depart_v out_o of_o this_o corporeal_a state_n in_o which_o they_o now_o live_v they_o be_v immediate_o release_v from_o all_o those_o bodily_a passion_n of_o hunger_n and_o thirst_v and_o pain_n and_o disease_n whereunto_o they_o
without_o be_v overcharge_v with_o their_o weight_n and_o number_n 3_o dly_z everlasting_a life_n include_v a_o most_o endear_n fruition_n of_o our_o glorify_a saviour_n and_o certain_o this_o be_v none_o of_o the_o small_a ingredient_n of_o that_o blissful_a state_n that_o we_o shall_v ever_o be_v with_o our_o bless_a lord_n as_o the_o apostle_n express_v it_o 1_o thes._n four_o 17_o for_o herein_o it_o be_v evident_a the_o same_o apostle_n place_v one_o great_a advantage_n of_o his_o future_a state_n for_o so_o he_o tell_v we_o he_o have_v a_o desire_n to_o depart_v and_o to_o be_v with_o christ_n which_o be_v far_o better_a phil._n i._n 23_o and_o indeed_o it_o be_v impossible_a but_o it_o must_v be_v a_o vast_a addition_n to_o the_o happiness_n of_o all_o virtuous_a and_o grateful_a soul_n to_o see_v this_o bless_a friend_n and_o benefactor_n who_o come_v down_o from_o the_o bosom_n of_o his_o father_n and_o for_o their_o sake_n expose_v himself_o to_o a_o miserable_a life_n and_o shameful_a death_n to_o see_v he_o sit_v at_o his_o father_n right_a hand_n crown_v with_o majesty_n and_o honour_n surround_v with_o the_o whole_a choir_n of_o angel_n and_o saint_n like_o a_o sun_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o circle_n of_o star_n how_o must_v it_o needs_o rejoice_v the_o heart_n of_o all_o the_o lover_n and_o follower_n of_o this_o bless_a lamb_n to_o see_v such_o a_o happy_a change_n of_o his_o circumstance_n to_o see_v he_o that_o be_v former_o despise_v and_o spit_v on_o and_o so_o unworthy_o treat_v by_o a_o ill-natured_a world_n adore_v and_o worship_v praise_v and_o admire_v by_o all_o the_o court_n of_o heaven_n and_o celebrate_v with_o the_o song_n of_o cherubin_n and_o seraphim_n of_o archangel_n and_o angel_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o just_a man_n make_v perfect_a to_o behold_v he_o that_o hang_v upon_o the_o cross_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o blood_n there_o in_o groan_n and_o agony_n mere_o to_o make_v miserable_a sinner_n happy_a advance_v to_o the_o high_a pitch_n of_o splendour_n and_o dignity_n and_o make_v head_n and_o prince_n of_o all_o the_o hierarchy_n of_o heaven_n very_o methinks_v though_o i_o be_v exclude_v from_o that_o happy_a place_n and_o have_v only_o the_o privilege_n to_o look_v in_o and_o see_v my_o bless_a lord_n and_o saviour_n it_o will_v be_v a_o most_o heavenly_a consolation_n to_o i_o to_o behold_v the_o glory_n and_o honour_n and_o happiness_n with_o which_o he_o be_v surround_v though_o i_o be_v sure_a never_o to_o partake_v of_o it_o and_o the_o communion_n i_o shall_v have_v in_o the_o joy_n of_o my_o master_n the_o sweet_a sympathy_n in_o all_o his_o pleasure_n will_v be_v a_o heaven_n at_o second_o hand_n to_o i_o and_o i_o shall_v feel_v myself_o unspeakable_o happy_a in_o be_v a_o spectator_n of_o his_o felicity_n and_o advancement_n but_o oh_o when_o that_o dear_a and_o bless_a person_n shall_v not_o only_o permit_v i_o to_o see_v his_o glory_n but_o introduce_v i_o into_o it_o when_o his_o bless_a mouth_n shall_v bid_v i_o welcome_n and_o pronounce_v my_o euge_fw-la bene_fw-la serve_v well_o do_v good_a and_o profitable_a servant_n enter_v into_o thy_o master_n joy_n when_o i_o shall_v not_o only_o see_v his_o belove_a face_n but_o be_v admit_v into_o his_o sweet_a conversation_n and_o dwell_v in_o his_o arm_n and_o embrace_n for_o ever_o when_o i_o shall_v hear_v he_o record_v the_o wondrous_a adventure_n of_o his_o love_n through_o how_o many_o woeful_a stage_n he_o pass_v to_o rescue_v i_o from_o endless_a misery_n how_o will_v my_o heart_n spring_n with_o joy_n and_o burn_v with_o love_n and_o my_o mouth_n overflow_v with_o praise_n and_o thanksgiving_n o_o bless_a jesus_n how_o happy_a will_v the_o day_n be_v when_o i_o who_o be_o load_v with_o so_o many_o vast_a obligation_n to_o love_v thou_o shall_v be_v introduce_v into_o thy_o presence_n to_o see_v thy_o glory_n and_o sympathize_v in_o thy_o joy_n as_o thou_o do_v in_o my_o misery_n to_o thank_v and_o praise_v thou_o face_n to_o face_n for_o all_o those_o wonder_n of_o love_n with_o which_o thou_o have_v oblige_v i_o and_o to_o bear_v a_o part_n in_o that_o heavenly_a song_n worthy_n be_v the_o lamb_n that_o be_v slay_v to_o receive_v power_n and_o riches_n and_o wisdom_n and_o strength_n and_o honour_n and_o glory_n and_o blessing_n who_o have_v redeem_v we_o to_o god_n by_o thy_o blood_n our_o of_o every_o kindred_n and_o tongue_n and_o people_n and_o nation_n rev._n v._n 9_o 12._o 4_o thly_a everlasting_a life_n include_v a_o most_o delightful_a conversation_n and_o society_n with_o angel_n and_o glorify_a spirit_n for_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o city_n of_o the_o live_a god_n the_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o what_o our_o society_n will_v be_v viz._n a_o innumerable_a company_n of_o angel_n the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a god_n the_o judge_n of_o all_o the_o spirit_n of_o just_a man_n make_v perfect_a and_o jesus_n the_o mediator_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n heb._n twelve_o 22_o 23_o 24._o lord_n what_o glorious_a society_n be_v here_o society_n in_o which_o there_o be_v nothing_o intermingle_v but_o what_o be_v heavenly_a and_o divine_a it_o be_v altogether_o compose_v of_o the_o best_a and_o wise_a and_o noble_a being_n in_o the_o world_n for_o as_o for_o the_o bless_a saint_n and_o angel_n they_o be_v all_o most_o perfect_o refine_v from_o all_o that_o folly_n and_o peevishness_n disguise_n and_o dissimulation_n which_o be_v the_o bane_n of_o humane_a conversation_n their_o understanding_n be_v exceed_o large_a and_o comprehensive_a and_o their_o charity_n and_o goodness_n be_v full_a as_o extensive_a as_o their_o knowledge_n and_o in_o such_o a_o conjunction_n of_o wisdom_n with_o goodness_n what_o a_o excellent_a society_n must_v there_o needs_o be_v produce_v for_o as_o their_o great_a goodness_n must_v needs_o render_v their_o conversation_n most_o free_a and_o amiable_a so_o must_v their_o great_a knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n render_v it_o no_o less_o profitable_a and_o delightful_a and_o as_o the_o latter_a must_v needs_o instruct_v they_o in_o all_o the_o wise_a art_n of_o endearment_n so_o the_o former_a must_v needs_o oblige_v they_o to_o use_v and_o improve_v they_o to_o the_o utmost_a o_o how_o heavenly_a therefore_o must_v their_o conversation_n need_v be_v whilst_o it_o be_v thus_o manage_v by_o pure_a wisdom_n and_o most_o perfect_a love_n whilst_o the_o most_o glorious_a knowledge_n be_v the_o scope_n and_o the_o most_o ardent_a friendship_n the_o law_n of_o all_o their_o converse_n who_o will_v not_o be_v willing_a to_o leave_v a_o foolish_a froward_a and_o ill-natured_a world_n for_o the_o bless_a society_n of_o those_o wise_a friend_n and_o perfect_a lover_n and_o what_o great_a happiness_n can_v we_o desire_v than_o to_o spend_v a_o eternity_n in_o such_o sweet_a conversation_n where_o we_o shall_v hear_v the_o deep_a philosophy_n of_o heaven_n free_o communicate_v in_o the_o wise_a and_o amicable_a discourse_n of_o angel_n and_o glorify_a spirit_n who_o mutual_o impart_v the_o treasure_n of_o each_o other_o knowledge_n without_o any_o reserve_v or_o affectation_n of_o mystery_n and_o free_o philosophise_v without_o wrangle_a dispute_n or_o peevish_a contention_n for_o victory_n where_o wisdom_n be_v the_o entertainment_n and_o love_n and_o mutual_a endearment_n the_o welcome_a where_o there_o be_v harmony_n without_o discord_n communication_n without_o dispute_n and_o everlasting_a discourse_n without_o wrangle_a o_o happy_a day_n when_o i_o shall_v depart_v from_o this_o impertinent_a and_o unsociable_a world_n and_o all_o my_o good_a old_a friend_n that_o be_v go_v to_o heaven_n before_o i_o shall_v meet_v i_o on_o the_o shore_n of_o eternity_n and_o congratulate_v my_o arrival_n to_o that_o bless_a society_n where_o i_o shall_v free_o converse_v with_o the_o patriarch_n and_o prophet_n the_o apostle_n and_o martyr_n and_o be_v most_o intimate_o acquaint_v with_o all_o those_o brave_a and_o generous_a soul_n who_o have_v recommend_v themselves_o to_o the_o world_n by_o their_o glorious_a example_n where_o angel_n and_o archangel_n shall_v be_v my_o familiar_a friend_n and_o all_o those_o illustrious_a courtier_n of_o the_o great_a king_n of_o heaven_n shall_v own_v i_o for_o their_o brother_n and_o bid_v i_o welcome_n to_o their_o master_n joy_n and_o none_o will_v disdain_v my_o company_n though_o never_o so_o much_o above_o i_o in_o glory_n and_o perfection_n but_o from_o the_o high_a to_o the_o low_a will_n all_o receive_v and_o entertain_v i_o with_o the_o tender_a endearment_n of_o heavenly_a lover_n 5_o thly_a everlasting_a life_n include_v also_o the_o infinite_a glory_n and_o delightfulness_n of_o the_o place_n wherein_o all_o these_o felicity_n be_v to_o be_v enjoy_v for_o though_o the_o very_a state_n of_o the_o bless_a be_v sufficient_o glorious_a to_o transform_v
between_o our_o love_n of_o and_o obedience_n to_o he_o there_o be_v a_o necessary_a and_o inseparable_a connection_n so_o that_o we_o may_v as_o soon_o be_v man_n without_o risibility_n as_o lover_n of_o god_n without_o sincere_a submission_n to_o his_o will._n for_o lover_n have_v one_o will_v and_o one_o soul_n they_o conspire_v in_o the_o same_o design_n and_o drive_v at_o the_o same_o interest_n their_o affection_n be_v perfect_a vnizon_n and_o do_v in_o the_o same_o like_v and_o dislike_v resound_v and_o echo_v to_o one_o another_o and_o so_o far_o as_o they_o love_v there_o be_v such_o a_o perfect_a agreement_n between_o they_o that_o they_o seem_v mutual_o to_o lend_v and_o borrow_v will_n and_o soul_n with_o one_o another_o and_o so_o if_o we_o love_v god_n there_o will_v be_v a_o sweet_a harmony_n between_o our_o will_n and_o he_o at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o we_o love_v he_o for_o if_o we_o love_v he_o we_o shall_v love_v to_o please_v he_o by_o comply_v in_o all_o thing_n with_o his_o heavenly_a will_n and_o rejoice_v that_o we_o be_v able_a to_o do_v any_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v sure_o will_v be_v acceptable_a in_o his_o eye_n and_o certain_o endear_v we_o to_o his_o most_o tender_a affection_n whilst_o therefore_o we_o live_v in_o wilful_a disobedience_n and_o opposition_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will_n all_o our_o pretence_n of_o love_n to_o he_o be_v rank_a dissimulation_n and_o like_o the_o kiss_v of_o judas_n be_v only_o preface_v to_o our_o succeed_a treason_n and_o rebellion_n and_o thus_o you_o see_v wherein_o the_o essence_n of_o our_o love_n to_o god_n consist_v and_o what_o be_v its_o essential_a property_n by_o a_o serious_a review_n of_o which_o you_o may_v easy_o conclude_v whether_o in_o reality_n you_o be_v lover_n of_o god_n or_o no._n 2._o i_o now_o proceed_v to_o the_o next_o enquiry_n namely_o what_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o this_o love_n be_v matter_n of_o indispensable_a duty_n to_o we_o for_o answer_v to_o which_o we_o must_v consider_v that_o this_o as_o well_o as_o all_o the_o other_o virtue_n of_o christianity_n be_v require_v of_o we_o by_o a_o twofold_a law_n the_o first_o be_v the_o law_n of_o perfection_n the_o second_o be_v the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n both_o of_o which_o it_o will_v be_v necessary_a for_o we_o to_o explain_v before_o we_o can_v exact_o determine_v what_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o love_n to_o god_n be_v matter_n of_o indispensable_a duty_n 1._o first_o therefore_o there_o be_v the_o law_n of_o perfection_n which_o require_v the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o every_o christian_a virtue_n that_o in_o the_o several_a state_n and_o period_n of_o our_o life_n we_o be_v capable_a of_o attain_v for_o thus_o we_o be_v enjoin_v not_o only_o to_o do_v but_o to_o abound_v in_o the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n not_o only_o to_o have_v grace_n but_o to_o grow_v in_o it_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o be_v perfect_a as_o our_o father_n in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a and_o indeed_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a standard_n of_o that_o perfection_n whereunto_o we_o must_v aspire_v and_o we_o be_v still_o bind_v to_o be_v grow_v on_o till_o we_o be_v infinite_o holy_a which_o because_o our_o finite_a nature_n can_v never_o arrive_v to_o in_o any_o period_n of_o duration_n therefore_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o it_o will_v be_v our_o duty_n to_o be_v grow_v on_o eternal_o so_o that_o this_o law_n have_v prescribe_v no_o limit_n to_o the_o degree_n of_o our_o growth_n in_o virtue_n have_v thereby_o cut_v out_o work_n enough_o to_o employ_v our_o faculty_n for_o ever_o not_o that_o we_o be_v sinner_n against_o this_o law_n so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v short_a or_o defective_a of_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o perfection_n for_o it_o require_v of_o we_o no_o more_o than_o what_o be_v within_o our_o present_a possibility_n and_o our_o possibility_n increase_v together_o with_o our_o improvement_n when_o we_o have_v but_o one_o degree_n of_o virtue_n it_o be_v no_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n that_o we_o do_v not_o immediate_o leap_v to_o six_o or_o seven_o because_o it_o be_v not_o in_o our_o power_n and_o no_o law_n can_v oblige_v a_o man_n to_o that_o which_o be_v impossible_a but_o when_o we_o have_v acquire_v one_o degree_n we_o have_v power_n to_o acquire_v a_o second_o and_o when_o we_o have_v acquire_v that_o we_o have_v power_n to_o acquire_v a_o three_o and_o so_o on_o ad_fw-la infinitum_fw-la and_o consequent_o our_o obligation_n to_o be_v more_o and_o more_o perfect_a increase_v according_a to_o the_o improvement_n of_o our_o power_n a_o babe_n in_o christ_n or_o beginner_n in_o religion_n have_v not_o the_o strength_n and_o power_n of_o a_o man_n that_o be_v of_o one_o that_o have_v make_v a_o considerable_a progress_n and_o consequent_o he_o be_v not_o immediate_o oblige_v by_o this_o law_n to_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o growth_n and_o perfection_n but_o whatsoever_o degree_n be_v within_o his_o power_n in_o the_o different_a period_n of_o his_o growth_n and_o progress_n that_o he_o be_v actual_o and_o immediate_o oblige_v to_o and_o while_o he_o continue_v defective_a in_o it_o he_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n so_o that_o in_o short_a this_o law_n require_v we_o to_o be_v in_o all_o respect_n as_o good_a in_o the_o several_a stage_n of_o our_o christian_a progress_n as_o at_o present_a it_o be_v possible_a for_o we_o to_o be_v and_o so_o far_o as_o we_o fall_v short_a of_o any_o attainment_n that_o be_v within_o our_o power_n we_o be_v guilty_a of_o violate_v its_o righteous_a obligation_n it_o be_v true_a this_o law_n do_v not_o oblige_v we_o under_o the_o pain_n of_o eternal_a damnation_n and_o indeed_o if_o it_o do_v no_o flesh_n can_v be_v save_v since_o there_o never_o be_v any_o mere_a man_n but_o may_v have_v possible_o be_v better_a than_o he_o be_v have_v he_o be_v so_o diligent_a as_o to_o improve_v himself_o to_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o his_o power_n the_o proper_a sanction_n therefore_o of_o this_o law_n be_v this_o that_o we_o shall_v actual_o do_v all_o the_o good_a and_o acquire_v all_o the_o degree_n of_o virtue_n that_o be_v at_o present_a within_o our_o power_n under_o the_o pain_n of_o lose_v some_o degree_n of_o happiness_n in_o the_o other_o world_n which_o otherwise_o we_o shall_v have_v attain_v which_o be_v no_o more_o than_o what_o natural_o follow_v upon_o all_o sinful_a defect_n for_o every_o sinful_a defect_n be_v a_o privation_n of_o some_o degree_n of_o goodness_n and_o goodness_n be_v so_o essential_a to_o happiness_n that_o there_o can_v be_v a_o privation_n of_o the_o one_o without_o a_o diminution_n of_o the_o other_o but_o beside_o those_o defect_n of_o happiness_n that_o be_v natural_o consequent_a to_o our_o defect_n of_o virtue_n the_o scripture_n plain_o assure_v we_o that_o god_n himself_o will_v subtract_v from_o our_o reward_n hereafter_o in_o proportion_n to_o our_o moral_a defect_n and_o nonimprovement_n in_o this_o life_n for_o he_o which_o sow_v spare_o say_v the_o apostle_n shall_v reap_v spare_o and_o he_o which_o sow_v bountiful_o shall_v reap_v also_o bountiful_o 2_o cor._n ix_o 6_o and_o luke_n nineteeen_o our_o saviour_n by_o way_n of_o a_o parable_n do_v express_o teach_v we_o that_o our_o reward_n shall_v be_v apportion_v to_o the_o degree_n of_o our_o improvement_n for_o there_o he_o represent_v himself_o as_o a_o master_n come_v to_o take_v account_n of_o his_o servant_n among_o who_o he_o have_v entrust_v a_o stock_n of_o ten_o pound_n give_v every_o one_o of_o they_o a_o equal_a share_n the_o first_o by_o a_o extraordinary_a diligence_n have_v improve_v his_o pound_n into_o ten_o and_o he_o be_v reward_v according_o with_o the_o government_n of_o ten_o city_n vers._n 16_o 17._o the_o other_o have_v be_v faithful_a though_o not_o altogether_o so_o diligent_a and_o by_o his_o one_o pound_n have_v gain_v five_o and_o proportionable_o be_v make_v lord_n of_o five_o city_n vers._n 18_o 19_o by_o which_o he_o plain_o declare_v that_o so_o much_o as_o we_o come_v short_a of_o the_o utmost_a improvement_n in_o virtue_n so_o much_o will_v he_o subtract_v from_o the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o our_o reward_n so_o that_o in_o short_a the_o sense_n of_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n be_v this_o as_o thou_o will_v not_o incur_v the_o forfeiture_n of_o some_o degree_n of_o thy_o happiness_n in_o the_o other_o life_n be_v sure_a to_o employ_v thy_o utmost_a diligence_n in_o improulng_v thyself_o in_o every_o grace_n and_o virtue_n of_o religion_n but_o then_o 2_o lie_n there_o be_v the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n which_o only_o require_v the_o be_v and_o reality_n of_o all_o christian_a grace_n and_o virtue_n in_o we_o together_o with_o the_o proper_a act_n and_o
will_v need_v no_o far_o motive_n to_o persuade_v they_o to_o choose_v what_o he_o will_v and_o command_v against_o all_o persuasion_n to_o the_o contrary_n if_o i_o love_v god_n above_o myself_o i_o shall_v certain_o choose_v his_o will_n before_o my_o own_o if_o i_o love_v he_o above_o all_o my_o pleasure_n i_o shall_v choose_v his_o pleasure_n before_o my_o own_o and_o it_o will_v be_v a_o needless_a thing_n to_o propose_v motive_n to_o persuade_v i_o to_o do_v that_o which_o i_o like_v best_a and_o choose_v that_o which_o i_o love_v above_o all_o the_o world_n so_o that_o whilst_o a_o man_n have_v need_n of_o motive_n to_o persuade_v he_o to_o choose_v god_n and_o prefer_v his_o will_n above_o all_o temptation_n it_o be_v apparent_a he_o love_v he_o not_o above_o all_o and_o consequent_o according_a to_o this_o doctrine_n can_v be_v a_o good_a man_n in_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n which_o if_o it_o be_v true_a i_o doubt_v the_o list_n of_o good_a man_n will_v be_v reduce_v to_o a_o very_a small_a number_n wherefore_o since_o love_a god_n above_o all_o be_v a_o high_a strain_n of_o piety_n much_o above_o the_o low_a estate_n of_o sincere_a and_o true_a goodness_n to_o make_v it_o necessary_a to_o a_o good_a state_n must_v needs_o be_v very_o dangerous_a since_o it_o can_v but_o dishearten_v beginner_n in_o religion_n and_o perplex_v their_o conscience_n with_o needless_a and_o inextricable_a scruple_n i_o confess_v not_o to_o love_n god_n above_o all_o who_o do_v so_o infinite_o exceed_v all_o in_o degree_n of_o loveliness_n and_o amability_n be_v a_o argument_n of_o great_a imperfection_n though_o not_o of_o insincerity_n but_o if_o my_o love_n to_o he_o be_v such_o as_o that_o together_o with_o my_o hope_n and_o fear_v excite_v by_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o religion_n it_o effectual_o operate_v on_o my_o will_n so_o as_o to_o win_v it_o to_o a_o universal_a prevalent_a consent_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n i_o know_v no_o reason_n i_o have_v to_o judge_v severe_o of_o my_o main_a state_n though_o i_o shall_v be_v conscious_a to_o myself_o that_o my_o love_n single_o and_o apart_o from_o those_o other_o motive_n have_v not_o force_n enough_o in_o it_o to_o produce_v this_o happy_a effect_n this_o therefore_o i_o conceive_v be_v the_o utmost_a degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n that_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v that_o we_o shall_v so_o love_v he_o as_o by_o our_o love_n in_o concurrence_n with_o the_o other_o argument_n of_o religion_n to_o be_v effectual_o prevail_v on_o to_o obey_v he_o 3_o lie_n the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n of_o we_o as_o together_o with_o those_o other_o motive_n of_o christianity_n be_v prevalent_a to_o sincere_a obedience_n and_o in_o this_o it_o differ_v from_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n which_o require_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n of_o we_o as_o together_o with_o those_o other_o motive_n be_v productive_a of_o perfect_a unsinning_a obedience_n for_o as_o i_o have_v show_v you_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n require_v the_o utmost_a of_o our_o possibility_n and_o consequent_o that_o we_o shall_v love_v god_n as_o much_o as_o we_o can_v and_o consider_v and_o apply_v to_o ourselves_o the_o other_o motive_n of_o religion_n as_o well_o and_o as_o close_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o then_o proceed_v upon_o the_o whole_a to_o serve_v and_o obey_v god_n to_o the_o utmost_a of_o our_o power_n and_o ability_n which_o if_o we_o do_v we_o be_v perfect_o innocent_a and_o inculpable_a unless_o you_o suppose_v that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v blame-worthy_a for_o not_o do_v more_o than_o he_o can_v but_o shall_v the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v thus_o much_o of_o we_o i_o doubt_v it_o will_v exclude_v the_o best_a of_o man_n out_o of_o the_o state_n of_o goodness_n and_o salvation_n for_o what_o man_n be_v there_o that_o do_v always_o love_n and_o obey_v god_n to_o the_o utmost_a of_o his_o present_a possibility_n wherefore_o all_o that_o this_o law_n can_v be_v suppose_v to_o require_v of_o we_o be_v only_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n as_o be_v requisite_a to_o render_v it_o a_o concurrent_a cause_n of_o true_a sincere_a obedience_n that_o be_v to_o say_v such_o a_o love_n as_o in_o concurrence_n with_o those_o great_a motive_n of_o reward_n and_o punishment_n produce_v such_o a_o hearty_a consent_n in_o we_o to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n as_o will_v not_o suffer_v we_o any_o long_a to_o persist_v either_o in_o carelss_o or_o affect_v ignorance_n of_o it_o or_o in_o know_v and_o wilful_a disobedience_n to_o it_o and_o there_o be_v no_o infirmity_n or_o miscarriage_n whatsoever_o inconsistent_a with_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n but_o what_o be_v also_o inconsistent_a with_o such_o a_o consent_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will._n if_o therefore_o we_o thus_o love_v god_n to_o the_o purpose_n of_o a_o sincere_a obedience_n the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n acquit_v we_o and_o as_o for_o our_o sin_n of_o infirmity_n surprise_n or_o inadvertency_n we_o be_v accountable_a for_o they_o only_o to_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n 4_o thly_a and_o last_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n require_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n as_o together_o with_o those_o other_o motive_n make_v we_o not_o only_o sincere_a in_o our_o obedience_n but_o also_o careful_a to_o improve_v it_o to_o further_a degree_n of_o perfection_n and_o indeed_o this_o be_v necessary_o include_v in_o the_o former_a for_o if_o our_o love_n of_o god_n join_v with_o the_o other_o argument_n of_o religion_n have_v so_o far_o prevail_v upon_o we_o as_o to_o win_v we_o to_o a_o sincere_a consent_n to_o his_o heavenly_a will_n we_o shall_v not_o only_o industrious_o avoid_v the_o know_v and_o wilful_a violation_n of_o it_o but_o be_v very_o careful_a to_o correct_v those_o flaw_n and_o imperfection_n that_o be_v intermix_v with_o our_o obedience_n to_o it_o it_o be_v true_a when_o there_o be_v nothing_o but_o slavish_a fear_n at_o the_o bottom_n of_o a_o man_n obedience_n that_o must_v necessary_o contract_v and_o shrink_v up_o the_o sinew_n of_o his_o care_n and_o endeavour_n and_o render_v he_o exceed_o narrow_a and_o stingy_a in_o the_o discharge_v of_o his_o duty_n for_o have_v no_o far_a aim_n than_o his_o own_o security_n he_o will_v do_v no_o more_o than_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o avoid_v the_o danger_n that_o he_o stand_v in_o fear_n of_o and_o if_o he_o can_v but_o escape_v those_o know_v and_o wilful_a sin_n that_o lay_v waste_v his_o conscience_n and_o expose_v he_o to_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o utmost_a he_o desire_v or_o aim_v at_o but_o as_o for_o those_o miscarriage_n and_o sinful_a imperfection_n which_o do_v only_o fall_v under_o the_o cognizance_n of_o the_o law_n of_o perfection_n he_o be_v not_o at_o all_o concern_v about_o they_o but_o when_o our_o fear_n be_v intermingle_v with_o such_o a_o degree_n of_o love_n to_o god_n as_o the_o law_n of_o sincerity_n exact_v that_o will_v make_v we_o careful_a not_o only_o to_o avoid_v those_o know_v and_o wilful_a sin_n that_o divorce_n we_o from_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n but_o also_o to_o endear_v ourselves_o more_o and_o more_o to_o he_o by_o correct_v even_o those_o small_a defect_n and_o imperfection_n that_o do_v still_o adhere_v to_o our_o duty_n and_o nature_n for_o this_o be_v plain_a that_o no_o man_n can_v hearty_o love_v god_n that_o do_v not_o more_o and_o more_o desire_n to_o be_v belove_v by_o he_o and_o that_o no_o man_n can_v sincere_o desire_v to_o be_v more_o and_o more_o belove_v by_o god_n that_o do_v not_o honest_o endeavour_v to_o render_v himself_o more_o and_o more_o lovely_a in_o his_o eye_n that_o be_v to_o reform_v all_o those_o sinful_a defect_n and_o imperfection_n which_o stain_n and_o blemish_v the_o beauty_n of_o his_o soul_n whosoever_o therefore_o content_v himself_o with_o this_o not_o to_o be_v hate_v by_o god_n do_v never_o sincere_o love_v he_o and_o whosoever_o desire_v more_o than_o this_o will_v as_o well_o be_v careful_a to_o correct_v those_o small_a imperfection_n which_o render_v he_o less_o belove_v of_o god_n as_o to_o avoid_v those_o know_v and_o wilful_a sin_n which_o do_v expose_v he_o to_o god_n hatred_n if_o therefore_o our_o religion_n do_v not_o in_o some_o measure_n improve_v our_o nature_n if_o it_o do_v not_o render_v we_o more_o patient_a and_o humble_a more_o charitable_a and_o heavenly_a mind_v it_o be_v a_o certain_a sign_n that_o it_o be_v not_o act_v by_o love_n for_o if_o after_o have_v a_o long_a while_n continue_v in_o a_o round_a of_o religious_a duty_n we_o still_o return_v to_o the_o same_o point_n and_o be_v in_o no_o degree_n better_o than_o we_o be_v when_o we_o first_o begin_v it_o be_v
that_o can_v either_o promote_v or_o complete_a thy_o happiness_n but_o be_v so_o importunate_o concern_v for_o thou_o as_o to_o beseech_v and_o entreat_v thou_o not_o to_o reject_v his_o favour_n and_o can_v thou_o be_v cold_a and_o insensible_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o so_o many_o prevail_a endearment_n suppose_v that_o thy_o fellow-creature_n have_v do_v for_o thou_o but_o a_o thousand_o part_n of_o what_o thy_o god_n have_v do_v and_o thou_o have_v repay_v his_o kindness_n with_o nothing_o but_o affront_v and_o indignity_n will_v thou_o not_o call_v thyself_o a_o thousand_o ungrateful_a wretch_n and_o acknowledge_v thyself_o infinite_o unworthy_a of_o his_o favour_n and_o be_v it_o less_o criminal_a to_o be_v ungrateful_a to_o god_n than_o to_o thy_o fellow-creature_n suppose_v thou_o have_v a_o friend_n that_o begin_v to_o love_v thou_o as_o soon_o as_o thou_o be_v bear_v and_o have_v persist_v to_o love_v thou_o notwithstanding_o thou_o have_v offer_v he_o a_o thousand_o provocation_n to_o the_o contrary_a that_o have_v do_v thou_o all_o the_o good_a he_o be_v able_a and_o constant_o repay_v thy_o injury_n with_o favour_n will_v not_o thy_o conscience_n fly_v in_o thy_o face_n and_o all_o that_o be_v humane_a in_o thou_o upbraid_v thy_o monstrous_a baseness_n and_o have_v not_o thy_o god_n oblige_v thou_o infinite_o more_o than_o the_o best_a friend_n in_o the_o world_n how_o then_o can_v thou_o excuse_v thy_o coldness_n and_o indifference_n to_o he_o consider_v o_o my_o soul_n the_o eye_n of_o all_o the_o spiritual_a world_n be_v upon_o thou_o angel_n and_o saint_n be_v look_v down_o from_o their_o throne_n of_o glory_n to_o see_v how_o thou_o will_v acquit_v thyself_o under_o all_o these_o mighty_a obligation_n which_o if_o any_o mortal_a friend_n have_v lay_v they_o upon_o thou_o and_o thou_o shall_v have_v so_o ill_o requite_v he_o all_o the_o world_n will_v have_v hiss_v at_o thou_o for_o a_o monster_n of_o ingratitude_n and_o be_v it_o less_o infamous_a to_o be_v a_o ungrateful_a wretch_n towards_o god_n than_o towards_o a_o mortal_a friend_n with_o what_o confidence_n then_o will_v thou_o lift_v up_o thy_o head_n among_o those_o bless_a spirit_n who_o have_v be_v spectator_n of_o thy_o action_n who_o have_v see_v thy_o foul_a ingratitude_n towards_o thy_o best_a friend_n and_o must_v therefore_o brand_v thou_o for_o a_o inglorious_a wretch_n abandon_v of_o the_o common_a sense_n and_o modesty_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o if_o after_o you_o have_v press_v you_o soul_n with_o all_o this_o mighty_a weight_n of_o love_n you_o shall_v be_v still_o to_o learn_v to_o re-love_n the_o bless_a author_n of_o it_o i_o know_v no_o other_o expedient_a but_o to_o send_v you_o to_o the_o brute_n to_o be_v their_o scholar_n to_o call_v for_o your_o spaniel_n and_o bid_v they_o teach_v you_o and_o by_o their_o kind_n return_v of_o your_o favour_n instruct_v your_o cold_a ungrateful_a heart_n to_o make_v proportionate_a return_v of_o love_n to_o your_o dear_a lord_n and_o master_n thus_o let_v we_o frequent_o argue_v with_o ourselves_o and_o repeat_v these_o consideration_n upon_o our_o mind_n and_o certain_o if_o we_o have_v any_o sense_n of_o obligation_n they_o can_v fail_v of_o warm_v and_o affect_v our_o heart_n 3_o dly_z let_v we_o endeavour_v so_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v to_o moderate_v our_o affection_n to_o the_o world_n love_v not_o the_o world_n say_v st._n john_n neither_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n if_o any_o man_n love_v the_o world_n the_o love_n of_o the_o father_n be_v not_o in_o he_o 1_o epist._n two_o 15_o that_o be_v if_o we_o inordinate_o love_v and_o dote_v upon_o the_o world_n if_o we_o suffer_v its_o pleasure_n profit_n and_o honour_n to_o creep_v into_o to_o hamper_v and_o inveigle_v our_o affection_n into_o a_o excessive_a delight_n and_o complacency_n in_o they_o that_o will_v so_o forestall_v and_o prepossess_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v find_v no_o room_n for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o our_o soul_n our_o heart_n will_v be_v so_o soak_v and_o moisten_v with_o sensual_a desire_n and_o complacency_n that_o the_o pure_a flame_n of_o divine_a love_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o take_v hold_n of_o or_o kindle_v upon_o they_o for_o whilst_o we_o immoderate_o dote_v upon_o the_o world_n that_o will_v so_o engross_v our_o thought_n so_o perpetual_o importune_v our_o desire_n that_o no_o friend_n from_o heaven_n will_v ever_o be_v able_a to_o come_v at_o we_o no_o good_a thought_n or_o consideration_n that_o come_v to_o court_v and_o woo_v our_o soul_n for_o god_n will_v ever_o find_v admittance_n to_o they_o or_o if_o now_o and_o then_o they_o obtrude_v upon_o we_o and_o force_v themselves_o into_o our_o mind_n the_o world_n will_v be_v so_o buisy_n about_o we_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v long_o at_o leisure_n to_o attend_v to_o they_o but_o whilst_o they_o be_v address_v to_o we_o and_o importune_v our_o affection_n we_o shall_v feel_v a_o thousand_o rival_n thought_n swarm_v and_o buzz_v about_o we_o and_o this_o will_v be_v hold_v that_o pull_v the_o other_o clasp_v itself_o about_o we_o and_o woo_v we_o not_o to_o leave_v and_o forsake_v they_o and_o though_o between_o these_o competitor_n for_o our_o love_n our_o heart_n may_v now_o and_o then_o be_v a_o little_a waver_a and_o irresolute_a yet_o our_o fond_a partiality_n to_o the_o world_n will_v so_o vehement_o incline_v and_o bias_n we_o that_o we_o shall_v soon_o reject_v those_o divine_a thought_n that_o will_v so_o fain_o court_v we_o to_o a_o contrary_a affection_n wherefore_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v acquire_v this_o noble_a and_o heavenly_a virtue_n of_o divine_a love_n we_o must_v endeavour_v as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v to_o wean_v and_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o the_o world_n to_o rescue_v ourselves_o from_o under_o its_o tyranny_n and_o dominion_n into_o our_o own_o power_n that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o dispose_v of_o our_o time_n our_o thought_n and_o heart_n as_o shall_v seem_v to_o we_o most_o fit_a and_o reasonable_a for_o till_o we_o have_v recover_v our_o heart_n from_o the_o world_n into_o our_o own_o disposal_n how_o can_v we_o resign_v they_o to_o god_n before_o we_o can_v give_v he_o ourselves_o we_o must_v be_v in_o our_o own_o power_n which_o no_o man_n can_v be_v so_o long_o as_o he_o be_v enthral_v to_o the_o world_n wherefore_o if_o we_o will_v become_v hearty_a lover_n of_o god_n we_o must_v labour_v so_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v to_o get_v such_o a_o sovereignty_n over_o our_o earthly_a desire_n and_o affection_n as_o that_o whensoever_o we_o be_v mind_v to_o retire_v from_o the_o world_n and_o converse_n with_o god_n we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o keep_v they_o off_o at_o such_o a_o distance_n as_o that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o intrude_v upon_o we_o to_o mingle_v themselves_o with_o our_o contemplation_n and_o divert_v our_o eye_n from_o the_o endear_n prospect_n of_o his_o infinite_a love_n and_o loveliness_n and_o then_o our_o thought_n will_v stay_v and_o dwell_v upon_o this_o ravish_a theme_n like_o bee_n upon_o a_o sweet_a flower_n and_o never_o rise_v till_o they_o have_v extract_v thence_o the_o honey_n of_o canaan_n the_o delicious_a sweet_n of_o heavenly_a love_n and_o complacency_n then_o we_o shall_v muse_v on_o till_o the_o fire_n burn_v and_o never_o take_v off_o our_o eye_n from_o god_n till_o we_o have_v gaze_v ourselves_o into_o captivity_n to_o his_o love_n and_o beauty_n 4_o thly_a if_o we_o will_v attain_v to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n we_o must_v endeavour_v by_o the_o constant_a practice_n of_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o his_o nature_n to_o reconcile_v our_o mind_n and_o temper_n to_o it_o for_o whilst_o our_o mind_n be_v averse_a to_o the_o perfection_n of_o his_o nature_n to_o the_o justice_n purity_n and_o goodness_n of_o it_o the_o most_o powerful_a motive_n of_o his_o love_n and_o benevolence_n will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o beget_v in_o we_o a_o hearty_a complacencey_n in_o he_o we_o may_v admire_v his_o love_n to_o we_o and_o be_v sometime_o move_v by_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o into_o mighty_a transport_v of_o sensitive_a passion_n but_o it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v ever_o attain_v to_o a_o fix_a and_o permanent_a delight_n in_o he_o till_o we_o be_v reconcile_v to_o his_o nature_n for_o all_o true_a and_o constant_a love_n be_v found_v in_o a_o likeness_n of_o nature_n and_o therefore_o till_o we_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n godlike_a till_o we_o be_v pure_a as_o he_o be_v pure_a just_a as_o he_o be_v just_a good_a and_o merciful_a as_o he_o be_v good_a and_o merciful_a we_o have_v not_o as_o yet_o so_o much_o as_o lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o divine_a love_n nay_o we_o be_v so_o far_o from_o that_o that_o we_o be_v under_o a_o
prevalent_a repugnancy_n and_o antipathy_n to_o the_o divine_a nature_n wherefore_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v be_v sincere_a and_o hearty_a lover_n of_o god_n we_o must_v resolve_v to_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o the_o constant_a practice_n of_o all_o those_o eternal_a law_n of_o goodness_n that_o be_v found_v in_o his_o bless_a nature_n which_o if_o we_o do_v and_o persist_v in_o our_o resolution_n we_o shall_v find_v the_o practice_n of_o they_o will_v by_o degree_n render_v they_o first_o tolerable_a then_o easy_a then_o delightful_a then_o natural_a to_o we_o and_o when_o once_o the_o law_n of_o god_n nature_n be_v thus_o transcribe_v and_o copy_v into_o we_o when_o our_o heart_n and_o his_o stand_n bend_v the_o same_o way_n and_o be_v for_o the_o main_a alike_o incline_v and_o dispose_v then_o we_o be_v prepare_v for_o divine_a love_n make_v proper_a and_o convenient_a fuel_n to_o receive_v that_o heavenly_a flame_n for_o as_o when_o god_n see_v himself_o in_o we_o his_o goodness_n purity_n and_o holiness_n stamp_v and_o impress_v upon_o our_o nature_n he_o be_v incline_v by_o his_o own_o self-love_n to_o be_v please_v with_o and_o take_v complacency_n in_o we_o so_o when_o we_o come_v to_o see_v our_o self_n in_o god_n to_o see_v all_o that_o in_o he_o for_o which_o we_o value_v ourselves_o and_o to_o see_v it_o all_o in_o the_o utmost_a perfection_n in_o he_o which_o be_v yet_o so_o imperfect_a in_o ourselves_o our_o own_o self-love_n will_v endear_v he_o to_o we_o and_o wing_v our_o soul_n with_o a_o active_a vigorous_a love_n to_o he_o wherefore_o if_o we_o will_v love_v god_n let_v we_o live_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o godlike_a virtue_n till_o by_o accustom_v ourselves_o thereunto_o we_o have_v conquer_v our_o own_o repugnancy_n and_o antipathy_n to_o his_o bless_a nature_n and_o then_o our_o heart_n will_v stand_v open_a to_o his_o love_n and_o we_o shall_v feel_v it_o enter_v into_o we_o and_o insinuate_v itself_o into_o our_o will_n and_o affection_n like_o a_o sprightful_a and_o active_a flame_n till_o it_o have_v all_o inflame_v they_o with_o love_n and_o convert_v they_o into_o its_o own_o substance_n 5_o thly_a and_o last_o if_o we_o will_v acquire_v this_o heavenly_a virtue_n to_o all_o the_o forego_n direction_n we_o must_v add_v constant_a and_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a that_o without_o the_o assistance_n of_o this_o grace_n we_o can_v love_v he_o but_o if_o we_o do_v all_o and_o then_o implore_v and_o supplicate_v his_o assistance_n we_o have_v as_o much_o assurance_n of_o it_o as_o the_o promise_n of_o truth_n itself_o can_v give_v we_o if_o therefore_o we_o have_v a_o hearty_a mind_n to_o love_v he_o we_o shall_v both_o do_v our_o own_o part_n towards_o it_o and_o earnest_o implore_v he_o to_o do_v he_o for_o so_o when_o we_o petition_n for_o our_o daily_a bread_n we_o do_v not_o say_v our_o prayer_n and_o then_o sit_v down_o with_o our_o hand_n in_o our_o bosom_n expect_v that_o bread_n shall_v drop_v from_o heaven_n into_o our_o mouth_n but_o we_o present_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o some_o honest_a employment_n and_o therein_o diligent_o endeavour_v to_o obtain_v what_o we_o pray_v for_o and_o the_o same_o course_n we_o shall_v take_v if_o we_o desire_v to_o love_n god_n with_o the_o same_o sincerity_n as_o we_o desire_v food_n we_o shall_v pray_v and_o endeavour_v and_o endeavour_v and_o pray_v we_o shall_v be_v diligent_a in_o do_v what_o be_v in_o our_o power_n and_o be_v importunate_a with_o god_n to_o do_v what_o be_v only_o in_o he_o and_o certain_o do_v we_o but_o know_v the_o worth_n of_o this_o heavenly_a virtue_n this_o soul_n and_o queen_n of_o all_o other_o grace_n we_o shall_v count_v no_o prayer_n no_o tear_n no_o endeavour_n too_o much_o to_o purchase_v and_o obtain_v it_o do_v we_o but_o consider_v how_o useful_a and_o delightful_a it_o be_v how_o at_o once_o it_o entice_v and_o inlivens_fw-la man_n what_o a_o powerful_a bias_n it_o clap_v upon_o their_o heart_n to_o incline_v they_o to_o their_o duty_n and_o with_o what_o joy_n and_o cheerfulness_n it_o carry_v they_o through_o the_o great_a difficulty_n and_o turn_v their_o toil_n into_o recreation_n how_o it_o clear_v and_o smooth_v their_o countenance_n revive_v and_o elevate_v their_o heart_n do_v man_n i_o say_v but_o consider_v this_o they_o will_v give_v neither_o themselves_o nor_o heaven_n rest_v till_o they_o feel_v their_o cold_a and_o slugish_a soul_n inspire_v and_o animate_v with_o it_o wherefore_o to_o all_o our_o endeavour_n after_o it_o let_v we_o join_v our_o earnest_a prayer_n to_o god_n that_o he_o will_v kindle_v our_o stupid_a heart_n and_o touch_v our_o cold_a affection_n with_o a_o outstretch_a ray_n from_o himself_o that_o he_o will_v conquer_v our_o repugnance_n to_o he_o and_o represent_v his_o love_n and_o beauty_n to_o our_o soul_n in_o such_o affect_v and_o attractive_a form_n as_o may_v not_o fail_v to_o captivate_v our_o heart_n and_o subdue_v our_o obstinate_a will_n that_o have_v so_o long_o hold_v out_o against_o all_o the_o storm_n and_o battery_n of_o his_o endear_n goodness_n and_o if_o we_o thus_o pray_v and_o thus_o endeavour_v and_o persevere_v in_o both_o we_o shall_v at_o length_n most_o certain_o feel_v this_o heavenly_a grace_n spring_v up_o within_o we_o and_o grow_v on_o to_o maturity_n by_o insensible_a degree_n till_o at_o last_o it_o have_v get_v a_o entire_a possession_n of_o our_o soul_n and_o subdue_v all_o our_o power_n and_o affection_n to_o its_o sweet_a and_o bless_a empire_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v feel_v ourselves_o act_v in_o religion_n by_o a_o new_a soul_n and_o carry_v on_o through_o all_o its_o weary_a stage_n with_o a_o unspeakable_a life_n and_o vigour_n then_o all_o our_o duty_n will_v be_v naturalize_v to_o we_o and_o we_o shall_v do_v god_n will_n upon_o earth_n with_o almost_o the_o same_o cheerfulness_n and_o alacrity_n as_o it_o be_v do_v by_o our_o bless_a brethren_n in_o heaven_n which_o god_n of_o his_o infinite_a mercy_n grant_v to_o who_o be_v honour_n etc._n etc._n psalm_n xi_o 7_o for_o the_o righteous_a lord_n love_v righteousness_n by_o righteousness_n here_o some_o expositor_n understand_v the_o righteousness_n of_o punishment_n because_o in_o the_o forego_n verse_n it_o be_v say_v upon_o the_o wicked_a he_o shall_v rain_v snare_n fire_n and_o brimstone_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o it_o follow_v why_o he_o shall_v do_v it_o for_o the_o righteous_a lord_n love_v righteousness_n but_o consider_v the_o whole_a i_o rather_o believe_v that_o by_o righteousness_n here_o be_v mean_v righteousness_n of_o life_n and_o manner_n for_o it_o seem_v more_o probable_a that_o the_o text_n be_v a_o reason_n of_o the_o two_o former_a verse_n than_o of_o that_o immediate_o forego_v but_o the_o whole_a that_o be_v assert_v be_v this_o the_o lord_n try_v the_o righteous_a but_o the_o wicked_a and_o he_o that_o love_v violence_n his_o soul_n hate_v upon_o the_o wicked_a he_o shall_v rain_v snare_n etc._n etc._n as_o if_o he_o shall_v have_v say_v there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o god_n deal_v with_o the_o righteous_a and_o the_o wicked_a for_o though_o sometime_o he_o afflict_v the_o righteous_a yet_o it_o be_v only_a to_o prove_v and_o try_v they_o and_o to_o render_v their_o virtue_n more_o exemplary_a and_o illustrious_a but_o as_o for_o the_o wicked_a when_o he_o rain_v down_o punishment_n on_o they_o it_o be_v out_o of_o a_o just_a hatred_n and_o indignation_n against_o they_o and_o the_o reason_n why_o he_o be_v thus_o different_o affect_v towards_o these_o different_a person_n be_v because_o of_o the_o different_a affection_n he_o bear_v towards_o their_o contrary_a qualification_n he_o love_v the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o that_o make_v he_o chasten_v they_o in_o love_n and_o for_o kind_n and_o merciful_a end_n and_o purpose_n but_o he_o hate_v the_o wickedness_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o that_o make_v he_o proceed_v against_o they_o with_o so_o much_o wrath_n and_o severity_n so_o that_o by_o righteousness_n here_o he_o mean_v that_o goodness_n and_o virtue_n which_o be_v inherent_a in_o righteous_a person_n be_v evident_a from_o what_o follow_v the_o righteous_a lord_n love_v righteousness_n his_o countenance_n do_v behold_v the_o upright_a that_o be_v he_o look_v upon_o they_o with_o a_o most_o gracious_a and_o benevolent_a aspect_n which_o latter_a word_n be_v only_o a_o full_a exemplification_n of_o the_o former_a plain_o show_v that_o by_o the_o righteousness_n mention_v in_o they_o be_v mean_v the_o righteousness_n of_o righteous_a person_n and_o consequent_o that_o it_o do_v not_o signify_v the_o righteousness_n of_o punishment_n but_o the_o righteousness_n of_o manner_n by_o which_o we_o be_v not_o to_o understand_v that_o single_a virtue_n
all_o other_o natural_a motion_n be_v swift_a when_o it_o be_v near_a its_o centre_n for_o so_o plato_n have_v observe_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d when_o man_n be_v near_a death_n or_o suppose_v themselves_o near_o it_o there_o arise_v in_o they_o great_a fear_n and_o thoughtfulness_n of_o a_o future_a state_n which_o before_o they_o never_o think_v of_o and_o that_o this_o spring_v not_o from_o superstition_n but_o from_o nature_n be_v evident_a by_o this_o that_o atheist_n themselves_o who_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o superstition_n when_o they_o come_v to_o die_v be_v rare_o able_a to_o suppress_v this_o ominous_a dread_a and_o fear_v of_o another_o world_n but_o in_o despite_n of_o themselves_o be_v force_v into_o those_o dismal_a expectation_n which_o before_o they_o laugh_v at_o a_o clear_a demonstration_n that_o these_o ill_a aboding_n spring_v from_o something_o within_o they_o that_o they_o can_v conquer_v and_o that_o what_o their_o mind_n now_o speak_v be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o sense_n of_o their_o opinion_n as_o their_o nature_n and_o this_o language_n of_o nature_n be_v a_o clear_a expression_n of_o god_n love_n of_o righteousness_n for_o the_o voice_n of_o nature_n be_v only_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o god_n of_o nature_n echo_v and_o rebound_v and_o to_o be_v sure_o whatever_o he_o imprint_n upon_o our_o nature_n be_v the_o sense_n and_o mean_v of_o his_o own_o heart_n since_o his_o veracity_n will_v not_o permit_v he_o to_o print_v any_o falsehood_n there_o and_o since_o by_o these_o our_o natural_a aboding_n the_o god_n of_o nature_n propose_v to_o we_o a_o future_a reward_n if_o we_o be_v righteous_a and_o a_o future_a punishment_n if_o we_o be_v wicked_a he_o have_v hereby_o as_o certain_o declare_v to_o we_o how_o much_o he_o love_v righteousness_n and_o hate_v the_o contrary_a as_o he_o can_v possible_o do_v by_o the_o most_o express_a promise_n which_o he_o have_v make_v to_o reward_v the_o one_o or_o threaten_v to_o punish_v the_o other_o and_o thus_o you_o see_v what_o natural_a indication_n and_o discovery_n god_n have_v make_v of_o his_o unfeigned_a love_n of_o righteousness_n which_o be_v such_o as_o without_o any_o additional_a revelation_n be_v sufficient_a to_o convince_v consider_v man_n that_o god_n be_v a_o most_o sincere_a and_o affectionate_a lover_n of_o righteousness_n and_o righteous_a man_n and_o that_o if_o we_o will_v but_o unfeigned_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o the_o eternal_a law_n of_o goodness_n we_o shall_v thereby_o make_v ourselves_o the_o best_a friend_n who_o be_v a_o never-failing_a fountain_n of_o goodness_n and_o who_o will_v do_v we_o more_o good_a than_o all_o the_o being_n in_o the_o world_n shall_v they_o conspire_v to_o be_v our_o benefactor_n and_o that_o on_o the_o contrary_a if_o we_o persist_v in_o sin_n and_o unrighteousness_n we_o shall_v most_o certain_o provoke_v he_o to_o be_v our_o mortal_a enemy_n and_o render_v ourselves_o eternal_o odious_a and_o hateful_a in_o his_o eye_n that_o his_o incense_a wrath_n will_v soon_o or_o late_a break_n forth_o upon_o we_o and_o prosecute_v we_o with_o eternal_a vengeance_n and_o that_o we_o can_v expect_v nothing_o but_o black_a and_o dismal_a issue_n while_o we_o be_v hate_v by_o he_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o all_o love_n and_o goodness_n all_o this_o we_o may_v be_v sufficient_o convince_v of_o by_o serious_o attend_v to_o those_o natural_a discovery_n which_o god_n have_v make_v of_o his_o love_n of_o righteousness_n but_o yet_o because_o he_o see_v mankind_n so_o unattentive_a to_o the_o voice_n of_o their_o nature_n so_o unobservant_a of_o its_o language_n and_o mean_v as_o to_o run_v headlong_o on_o notwithstanding_o all_o its_o countermand_v into_o the_o great_a impiety_n and_o wickedness_n he_o have_v be_v gracious_o please_v to_o add_v to_o these_o natural_a discovery_n of_o his_o love_n of_o righteousness_n sundry_a great_a and_o eminent_a supernatural_a one_o such_o as_o one_o will_v think_v be_v sufficient_a to_o rouse_v and_o awake_v the_o most_o stupid_a and_o insensible_a creature_n into_o a_o serious_a attention_n to_o they_o all_o which_o be_v reducible_a to_o these_o follow_a head_n 1._o his_o confer_v such_o great_a and_o miraculous_a favour_n upon_o righteous_a person_n and_o inflict_v such_o severe_a judgement_n on_o the_o wicked_a 2._o his_o make_v so_o many_o revelation_n to_o the_o world_n for_o the_o promote_a of_o righteousness_n and_o discountenance_v of_o sin_n 3._o his_o send_v his_o own_o son_n into_o the_o world_n to_o transact_v such_o mighty_a thing_n for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o righteousness_n and_o discouragement_n of_o sin_n 4._o his_o promise_v such_o vast_a reward_n to_o we_o upon_o condition_n of_o our_o be_v righteous_a and_o denounce_v such_o fearful_a punishment_n against_o we_o in_o case_n we_o do_v neglect_v it_o 5._o his_o granta_v his_o bless_a spirit_n to_o we_o to_o excite_v we_o to_o and_o assist_v we_o in_o our_o endeavour_n after_o righteousness_n 1._o one_o supernatural_a expression_n of_o god_n love_n of_o righteousness_n be_v his_o confer_v great_a and_o miraculous_a favour_n upon_o righteous_a person_n and_o inflict_v severe_a judgement_n upon_o the_o wicked_a and_o of_o this_o we_o have_v infinite_a instance_n in_o the_o several_a age_n of_o the_o world_n there_o be_v scarce_o any_o history_n either_o sacred_a or_o profane_a which_o abound_v not_o with_o they_o several_a of_o which_o both_o blessing_n and_o judgement_n do_v as_o plain_o evince_v themselves_o to_o be_v intend_v for_o reward_n and_o punishment_n as_o if_o they_o have_v be_v attend_v with_o a_o voice_n from_o heaven_n declare_v the_o reason_n for_o which_o they_o be_v bestow_v and_o inflict_v for_o how_o many_o famous_a instance_n have_v we_o of_o the_o miraculous_a deliverance_n of_o righteous_a person_n who_o by_o a_o invisible_a hand_n have_v be_v rescue_v from_o the_o great_a danger_n when_o in_o all_o outward_a appearance_n their_o condition_n be_v hopeless_a and_o desperate_a and_o of_o wonderful_a blessing_n that_o have_v happen_v to_o they_o not_o only_o without_o but_o contrary_a to_o all_o secondary_a cause_n of_o some_o that_o have_v be_v so_o eminent_o reward_v in_o kind_a as_o that_o the_o good_a which_o they_o receive_v be_v a_o most_o visible_a token_n of_o the_o good_a which_o they_o do_v of_o other_o that_o have_v receive_v the_o blessing_n they_o ask_v whilst_o they_o be_v pray_v for_o they_o and_o obtain_v the_o grant_n of_o they_o with_o such_o distinguish_a circumstance_n as_o do_v plain_o signify_v they_o to_o be_v the_o answer_n and_o return_v of_o their_o devout_a desire_n and_o so_o on_o the_o contrary_a how_o many_o notable_a example_n be_v there_o of_o such_o miraculous_a judgement_n inflict_v upon_o unrighteous_a person_n as_o have_v either_o exceed_v the_o power_n of_o all_o secondary_a cause_n or_o else_o have_v be_v cause_v by_o they_o contrary_a to_o their_o natural_a tendency_n of_o man_n that_o have_v be_v punish_v in_o the_o very_a act_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o sometime_o in_o the_o very_a part_n by_o which_o they_o have_v offend_v that_o have_v have_v the_o evil_a of_o their_o sin_n retaliate_v upon_o they_o in_o a_o correspondent_a evil_n of_o suffer_v and_o be_v punish_v with_o those_o very_a judgement_n which_o they_o have_v imprecate_v on_o themselves_o in_o justification_n of_o a_o falsehood_n now_o though_o in_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o thing_n that_o of_o the_o wise_a man_n be_v most_o true_a that_o we_o know_v neither_o love_n nor_o hatred_n by_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o we_o because_o ordinary_o all_o thing_n come_v alike_o to_o all_o and_o there_o be_v one_o event_n to_o the_o righteous_a and_o the_o wicked_a eccles._n ix_o 1_o 2._o yet_o when_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n so_o visible_o step_v out_o of_o its_o ordinary_a course_n to_o bless_v the_o righteous_a and_o punish_v the_o wicked_a it_o be_v a_o plain_a indication_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o one_o and_o his_o hatred_n to_o the_o other_o for_o these_o irregular_a providence_n have_v plain_a and_o visible_a token_n of_o god_n love_n and_o anger_n imprint_v on_o their_o forehead_n and_o it_o will_v be_v stupidity_n to_o attribute_v they_o either_o to_o a_o blind_a chance_n or_o the_o necessary_a revolution_n of_o secondary_a cause_n when_o they_o be_v stamp_v with_o such_o legible_a character_n of_o their_o be_v design_v and_o intend_v for_o reward_n and_o punishment_n for_o if_o these_o be_v either_o casual_a or_o necessary_a why_o shall_v they_o not_o happen_v alike_o to_o all_o as_o well_o as_o ordinary_a providence_n why_o shall_v not_o there_o be_v as_o many_o example_n of_o the_o miraculous_a blessing_n and_o deliverance_n of_o the_o unrighteous_a as_o there_o be_v of_o the_o righteous_a why_o shall_v not_o as_o many_o man_n have_v suffer_v as_o remarkable_o the_o evil_n which_o they_o have_v imprint_v on_o themselves_o in_o attest_v the_o
psal._n lxxxiv_o 11_o who_o will_v not_o then_o be_v tempt_v to_o righteousness_n upon_o the_o prospect_n of_o be_v a_o favourite_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o infinite_a glory_n and_o advantage_n which_o redound_v from_o thence_o 4_o thly_a and_o last_o from_o hence_o i_o infer_v how_o inexcusable_a we_o be_v if_o we_o persist_v in_o sin_n after_o the_o many_o discovery_n which_o god_n have_v make_v to_o we_o of_o his_o love_n of_o righteousness_n have_v we_o any_o reason_n to_o suppose_v that_o god_n be_v indifferent_o affect_v towards_o righteousness_n and_o sin_n it_o will_v be_v a_o fair_a excuse_n for_o unrighteous_a person_n for_o what_o great_a matter_n will_v it_o be_v which_o of_o the_o two_o contrary_n we_o choose_v if_o both_o be_v indifferent_a to_o god_n who_o best_o understand_v the_o worth_a and_o value_n of_o thing_n but_o now_o when_o god_n have_v discover_v such_o a_o zealous_a concern_v for_o righteousness_n and_o such_o a_o abhorrence_n of_o its_o contrary_a by_o so_o many_o clear_a indication_n both_o natural_a and_o supernatural_a there_o be_v no_o ground_n or_o colour_n for_o any_o such_o excuse_n for_o now_o no_o man_n can_v be_v excusable_o ignorant_a which_o way_n god_n heart_n be_v incline_v and_o we_o must_v wilful_o shut_v our_o eye_n if_o we_o do_v not_o discern_v which_o of_o the_o two_o contrary_n he_o will_v have_v we_o pursue_v and_o therefore_o if_o notwithstanding_o this_o we_o still_o persist_v in_o unrighteousness_n we_o do_v in_o effect_n declare_v that_o we_o regard_v not_o god_n and_o that_o we_o will_v do_v what_o we_o list_v let_v he_o will_v what_o he_o please_v that_o in_o the_o conduct_n of_o our_o action_n we_o will_v have_v the_o sole_a disposal_n of_o ourselves_o and_o be_v resolve_v that_o god_n shall_v have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o we_o and_o that_o we_o will_v not_o concern_v ourselves_o in_o any_o of_o our_o choice_n or_o action_n whether_o he_o be_v please_v or_o displease_v with_o they_o this_o be_v the_o plain_a sense_n of_o our_o perseverance_n in_o unrighteousness_n under_o all_o those_o clear_a discovery_n which_o god_n have_v make_v of_o his_o aversion_n to_o it_o now_o how_o incusable_a be_v this_o for_o a_o creature_n to_o behave_v itself_o so_o insolent_o towards_o the_o author_n and_o owner_n of_o its_o be_v to_o make_v he_o stand_v for_o a_o cypher_n in_o his_o own_o creation_n and_o to_o take_v no_o more_o notice_n of_o he_o than_o if_o he_o be_v the_o most_o impertinent_a and_o insignificant_a be_v in_o the_o world_n for_o now_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o our_o unrighteous_a do_n proceed_v from_o our_o rude_a contempt_n and_o regardlesness_n of_o his_o heavenly_a will_n we_o know_v well_o enough_o what_o he_o will_v have_v we_o do_v but_o either_o we_o do_v not_o think_v he_o worth_a the_o mind_v or_o if_o we_o do_v we_o be_v resolve_v to_o behave_v ourselves_o as_o if_o we_o do_v not_o it_o be_v true_a he_o have_v not_o make_v as_o full_a a_o discovery_n of_o his_o will_n to_o some_o as_o he_o have_v to_o other_o but_o yet_o it_o be_v plain_a he_o have_v so_o sufficient_o discover_v it_o to_o all_o that_o none_o can_v pretend_v to_o the_o excuse_n of_o ignorance_n for_o as_o for_o the_o heathen_n though_o they_o have_v no_o reveal_v discovery_n of_o it_o without_o they_o yet_o they_o have_v a_o bible_n within_o they_o the_o large_a and_o legible_a bible_n of_o nature_n which_o lie_v continual_o open_a before_o they_o and_o propose_v to_o their_o view_n in_o fair_a and_o distinct_a character_n the_o notion_n of_o god_n the_o distinction_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a and_o the_o eternal_a law_n of_o righteousness_n and_o therefore_o if_o notwithstanding_o this_o they_o will_v be_v so_o regardless_o of_o its_o great_a and_o bless_a author_n as_o either_o not_o to_o attend_v to_o or_o not_o comply_v with_o these_o natural_a discovery_n of_o his_o will_n what_o excuse_v can_v they_o make_v why_o they_o shall_v not_o perish_v in_o their_o own_o obstinacy_n for_o as_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o though_o they_o have_v not_o the_o law_n i._n e._n the_o reveal_v law_n yet_o they_o do_v or_o at_o least_o may_v have_v do_v by_o nature_n the_o thing_n contain_v in_o the_o law_n and_o therefore_o as_o many_o of_o they_o as_o have_v sin_v without_o this_o reveal_v law_n shall_v also_o perish_v without_o it_o that_o be_v by_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n rom._n 2.12_o 14._o and_o then_o as_o for_o the_o jew_n beside_o those_o natural_a indication_n of_o god_n love_n of_o righteousness_n which_o they_o have_v in_o common_a with_o the_o heathen_a they_o have_v sundry_a supernatural_a one_o they_o have_v sundry_a great_a and_o notorious_a example_n of_o god_n reward_v righteous_a and_o punish_v wicked_a man_n and_o the_o outward_a revelation_n of_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n the_o moral_a part_n of_o which_o be_v a_o new_a edition_n of_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o do_v contain_v within_o the_o rind_n and_o letter_n of_o it_o the_o most_o sublime_a and_o spiritual_a precept_n of_o righteousness_n and_o the_o ceremonial_a part_n of_o which_o be_v though_o a_o obscure_a yet_o intelligible_a representation_n of_o all_o those_o spiritual_a motive_n to_o righteousness_n which_o christianity_n contain_v so_o that_o will_v they_o but_o have_v attend_v either_o to_o the_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o their_o law_n or_o to_o the_o sermon_n of_o their_o prophet_n which_o very_o much_o clear_v and_o explain_v it_o they_o can_v not_o have_v be_v ignorant_a either_o of_o any_o part_n of_o their_o duty_n or_o of_o any_o considerable_a motive_n that_o be_v needful_a to_o press_v and_o engage_v they_o to_o it_o if_o therefore_o notwithstanding_o this_o they_o be_v so_o regardless_o of_o god_n as_o to_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o those_o many_o sensible_a distinction_n which_o his_o providence_n have_v make_v between_o righteous_a and_o unrighteous_a man_n in_o blessing_n the_o one_o and_o punish_v the_o other_o of_o which_o he_o give_v they_o so_o many_o signal_n example_n if_o they_o have_v so_o little_a reverence_n for_o his_o authority_n as_o neither_o to_o mind_v his_o law_n within_o nor_o his_o law_n without_o they_o or_o if_o they_o mind_v the_o late_a be_v so_o extreme_o heedless_a as_o to_o rest_v in_o a_o mere_a conformity_n to_o the_o letter_n of_o it_o without_o ever_o attend_v to_o its_o spiritual_a sense_n and_o mean_v upon_o what_o reasonable_a pretence_n can_v their_o stupidity_n be_v excuse_v but_o than_o last_o as_o for_o we_o christian_n we_o have_v not_o only_o all_o those_o natural_a indication_n of_o god_n love_n of_o righteousness_n which_o the_o heathen_n have_v and_o all_o those_o supernatural_a one_o which_o the_o jew_n have_v but_o we_o have_v all_o these_o late_a with_o much_o great_a advantage_n than_o the_o jew_n for_o they_o be_v all_o set_v before_o we_o in_o a_o clear_a light_n and_o present_v much_o more_o naked_a to_o our_o view_n for_o as_o they_o be_v propose_v to_o we_o they_o be_v neither_o wrap_v up_o in_o mystical_a sense_n nor_o cloud_v over_o with_o typical_a representation_n but_o lay_v before_o we_o in_o the_o most_o plain_a and_o easy_a proposition_n the_o literal_a sense_n of_o our_o precept_n of_o righteousness_n and_o of_o all_o our_o promise_n and_o threat_n be_v the_o mystical_a sense_n of_o they_o and_o all_o those_o christian_a motive_n to_o righteousness_n which_o be_v deliver_v to_o they_o in_o dark_a riddle_n and_o obscure_a and_o typical_a adumbration_n be_v bring_v forth_o to_o we_o from_o behind_o the_o curtain_n and_o propose_v in_o plain_a and_o popular_a article_n of_o faith_n so_o that_o if_o we_o still_o continue_v in_o unrighteousness_n we_o be_v of_o all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n the_o most_o inexcusable_a the_o heathen_n may_v plead_v against_o the_o jew_n that_o their_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v not_o so_o clear_a in_o its_o precept_n nor_o yet_o so_o cogent_a in_o its_o motive_n as_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n be_v the_o jew_n may_v plead_v against_o we_o christian_n that_o their_o law_n of_o moses_n be_v neither_o so_o express_v in_o its_o precept_n nor_o yet_o so_o intelligible_a in_o its_o best_a and_o most_o powerful_a motive_n but_o as_o for_o we_o christian_n we_o have_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o plead_v but_o by_o our_o own_o obstinacy_n against_o the_o clear_a discovery_n both_o of_o our_o dury_n and_o the_o motive_n which_o oblige_v we_o to_o it_o be_v condemn_v to_o everlasting_a silence_n so_o that_o when_o at_o the_o last_o tribunal_n it_o shall_v appear_v that_o we_o have_v persist_v in_o unrighteousness_n we_o must_v expect_v the_o reproach_n of_o all_o the_o reasonable_a world_n to_o be_v explode_v and_o hiss_v at_o not_o only_o by_o the_o universal_a choir_n of_o saint_n and_o angel_n but_o by_o jew_n and_o gentile_n and_o by_o the_o devil_n themselves_o who_o will_v all_o conspire_v with_o our_o own_o conscience_n to_o second_v that_o dreadful_a sentence_n which_o shall_v then_o pass_v upon_o we_o with_o the_o general_a acclamation_n of_o just_a and_o righteous_a be_v thou_o o_o lord_n in_o all_o thy_o way_n wherefore_o as_o we_o will_v not_o perish_v for_o ever_o without_o pity_n or_o excuse_v let_v we_o be_v persuade_v to_o abandon_v all_o vnrighteousness_n and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o to_o live_v sober_o and_o righteous_o and_o godly_a in_o this_o present_a world_n and_o then_o we_o may_v assure_v ourselves_o that_o the_o righteous_a lord_n who_o love_v righteousness_n will_v love_v we_o also_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o it_o and_o express_v his_o love_n to_o we_o in_o blessing_n and_o preserve_v we_o here_o and_o crown_v we_o with_o glory_n and_o happiness_n hereafter_o and_o this_o we_o beseech_v thou_o to_o grant_v o_o thou_o immutable_a lover_n of_o righteousness_n even_o for_o jesus_n christ_n his_o sake_n to_o who_o with_o thyself_o and_o thy_o eternal_a spirit_n be_v ascribe_v by_o we_o and_o all_o the_o world_n all_o honour_n and_o glory_n and_o power_n from_o this_o time_n forth_o and_o for_o evermore_o amen_n finis_fw-la abstin_n l._n 4_o