sufficient to do what is required of them Some hence take occasion to live habitually in gross sin and others in all manner of Wickedness but the great judge of all Men will be no more put off with such kind of tricks then themselves will be by such sayings from their servants and it is strange that they should be such Deceivers of themselves as willfully to keep off from what would bring them to Obedience and Happiness the way to which is not to do our own will but the will of him that sent us into this place of Tryal Let none accuse God as an hard Master for though the unprofitable servant will be apt to lay the blame upon him to excuse his own Sluggishness yet he doth not reap where he doth not sow neither will he require the improving of a Talent but according to what he hath given See I have set before thee this day Life and Good Death and Evil Deut. 30. 15. Some may think this last sad thing is but not the other We cannot come nor be perswaded to that why the prophet Moses for further assurance repeats it vers 19. with the most solemn Testimony I call Heaven and Earth to record this day against you that I have set before you Life and Death Blessing and Cursing therefore choose Life The affections have much influence over the will to move it Of the Affections and Passions this or that way these have been likewise tainted with original corruption which hath infected the whole Man. To speak of their irregularity and abuse is referred to some distinct Chapters hereafter the present design is to shew that God hath ingrafted them into our Nature and what is their right end how they are to be ordered towards Happiness as they are governed by the everlasting Gospel The Passions are a Torment to the Wicked and occasion of Evil so unto the Righteous are a comfort and instrument of good The one pervert these manage them aright but considered abstractedly in their own Nature are not only useful but necessary to accomplish the great end To begin with the most noble Affection Love which is the fulfilling of the Law. The first of all the Commandments is Hear Of Love. O Israel the Lord our God is one Lord And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy Heart and with all thy Soul and with all thy Strength and with all thy mind This is the first Commandment And the second is like namely this Thou shalt love thy Neighbour as thy self Mark. 12. 30 31. For this thou shalt not commit Adultery thou shalt not Kill thou shalt not Steal thou shalt not bear false Witness thou shalt not Covet it is briefly comprehended in his saying Rom. 13. 9. Love to God and ones Neighbour is the Whole Duty of Man That keeps from offending the Most High and also from doing the least injury to our fellow Creature for self-love cannot endure any should be done to our selves Saith the beloved Disciple who makes good the denomination by inculcating and repeating this word over to the utmost delight This is the Love of God that we keep his Commandments and his Commandments are not grievous 1 John 5. 3. By these two general judge of all that come under them there is no Torment in Love but all Happiness and Satisfaction it receives greater degrees according to its object And then how exceeding must that be which arises from the infinite God The joy of that Soul is unexpressible who perfectly love him That strangers may conceive somewhat thereof and come over to partake of it if they would be fully convinced in the Heart what every one will own with the Mouth it is requisite to lay down particularly there is all the reason in the world that we should love God yea the very same why we love any thing This is either the excellency of the thing it self or the kindness and actual good it doth unto us upon all which God deserves our utmost and whole affection He is the excellent One the Sum of all perfection Speak of him as much as you can and yet you will come short for he doth exceed The Lord is great and greatly to be praised â—sal 96. 4 It is not possible for any flattery and complement that is only for poor imperfect Creatures to be used towards him for we cannot say more then really he is nor attribute more Good Glory and Honour then doth belong and is in him We love a single Man for his Goodness Wisdom Uprightness Beauty now they are but shadows and little in the Creature but he is the Original and Fountain of all much more then all then the Ocean is to a single drop All lovely perfections that can be thought of or named or are any where to us unknown as there are millions yet come from him who is the Author of all with whom all fulness and eminency dwells As for the relation he humbleth himself to have towards us there is a jealousie in the heart of the Natural Man to that And if here should be used fine expressions the greatest Wit and smooth Language to assure Men of Gods goodness towards them they would suspect it more under a flourish of words and therefore cannot be directed any where better then to his revealed Will in Scripture which speaketh plainly John 3. 16. Rom. 5. 6 7 8. 1 John 3. 16. Psal 63. 3. Psal 73. 1. Deut. 7. 9. Psal 145. 20. Jer. 29. 11. Jer. 31. 3. Psal 68. 19. Look upon his whole Book that excellent Law he hath given that Love and Grace manifested by Jesus Christ Examine it altogether consider throughly the design of the whole He will have all Men to be saved 1 Tim. 2. 4. Even Heathens and those without He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to Repentance 2 Pet. 3. 9. This is said as to the Scoffers mentioned vers 3. and the worst of Men Reflect further on those good and comfortable things he hath given us to enjoy He doth good and give us rain from Heaven and fruitful Seasons filling our hearts with food and gladness so much for the use and delight of our outward Man and then it is certain he never designed the misery of that He hath done the same equally extensive Isa 55. 1 John 7. 37. as to our better part which appears by the Frame Powers and Tendency thereof All things are established for the present contentment and Eternal Happiness of us all both Body and Soul and Spirit to bring us to the greatest Glory and Exaltation we are capable of If we would suffer our selves to be throughly made sensible God hath a love to us the enmity in our nature would be taken away and we should be reconciled unto him as will appear more and more by a full knowledge of his ways and our doing according to them Draw nigh to God and he will draw nigh to you Jam.
4. 7. Have an honourable esteem and good will towards him and his kindness will be discovered to you Whatever hard thoughts arise or are subministred by the Tempter they all proceed from our ignorance and sin some remainders whereof are in good Men though they should labour all they can to have the same done away If any Man love God the same is known of him Many make a shew of much love but if true and sincere it will be manifested by the very nature thereof for if we love God we must be careful to please him above all things as Profit or Pleasure Favour or Good-will of Men. We must be zealous for his Glory contented to suffer Shame Reproach or any Inconvenience for him We are to side with him against the World and the corruption therein a sence of his favour and assurance of his See Exod. 32. 26. reward will make amends for all the seeming disadvantages the other may bring on us All Acts and Offices of Religion are Pleasant and this keeps in all Obedience Love is a constant Principle always abiding on the Soul for it hath a Complacency therein and Dictates at all times to do all things well-pleasing in his sight whom we Love. Take good heed therefore unto your selves that ye Love the Lord your God Else if ye do in any wise go back Josh 23. 11 12. Implying that if this be not in their Minds they would do so This suggests that they can never do too much for God makes them do every thing Willingly and Cheerfully carries them through all the Varieties of this Life sweetens their Enjoyments and for Sickness Pain Loss Affliction this gives that Patience and Resignation that they are as none adversity for they can apply Rom. 8. 28. 1 Cor. 2. 9. Prov. 3. 11 12. The apprehension of a good God above makes every thing Happy unto them As the Father hath loved me so have I loved you continue in my Love John 15. 9. and he that loveth the Son loveth the Father also Glory to God in the highest and on Earth Peace Good-will towards Men was sung at the Birth of Christ our Lord who Of Love to ones Neighbour fulfilled it by that excellent and improved Law he gave unto us Ye have heard that it hath been said thou shalt love thy Neighbour and hate thine Enemy But I say unto you love your Enemies Mat 5. 43. 44. This seems an unreasonable Command to Flesh and Blood but only as it is corrupt and unbelieving for otherwise it may be justified If thine Enemy be hungry give him bread to Eat and if he be thirsty give him water to drink for thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head and the Lord shall reward thee Prov. 25. 21 22. Thou shalt by this means stop his further Violence and Malice In point of prudence it is better to bear a little Evil then by resisting receive greater and trust to the recompence of God for having obeyed his Command We are obliged to do more then is common to Men to manifest our Faith and Dependance on him as may be seen by what is required Mat. 5. 44 45 46. The Reason is added That ye may be Children of your Father which is in Heaven for he maketh his Sun to rise on the evil and good and sendeth rain on the iust and unjust God is provoked every day yet he is strong and patient He loadeth Men with Benefits which they make occasion to sin yet more which he suffers to try if his Goodness will lead them to Repentance but if they offend yet worse their Malice doth only hurt themselves but he is highly exalted and looses nothing if all the World were as Stubborn and Rebellious against him as is possible for such small and limited Creatures to be His Glory and Goodness and Happiness is still the same for all the ungodly Deeds and hard Speeches which ungodly Sinners commit and speak against Jud. 15. him His obedient Servant who is but Dust and Ashes a Worm and nothing in Comparison of the Great Lord of Heaven and Earth Who hath and shall receive every thing from him is here in Duty bound to imitate his Maker and all through his Gracious ordering cannot receive the least disadvantage by it By loving Enemies they become reconciled unto him or not Iâ— the first then it is granted by all to be better then revenge But suppose the worst They are still malicious and resolved to do him all the mischief in their Power the whole in the end will fall on themselves and not on him Will they say all manner of Evil of him â—alsly for Christ's sake his Religion and Good Conscience They cannot torment him in this for he applys the Blessing Mat. 5. 11 12. and the Promise Psal 31. 20. He may be just sensible but doth not lie under Vexation and Discomposure The light breath which sends forth evil Words can never make any Wound in his Soul who hath on the Breast-plate of Righteousness Sayings of one another signifie nothing We are all to stand at Gods Judgment Seat and who have assured Evidence of being approved Detraction there doth no harm but increases our reward that we can heartily forgive the Authors thereof Will they do their utmost and persecute him to the Death As they did to the Prophets the Lord Jesus and his Saints yet after they have done that they have no more that they can do They intitle him to a Crown which the Lord hath promised to such so when he comes to suffer he may well say with him Who suffered for us leaving us an Example that we should follow his steps Father forgive them for they know not what they do When by the Eye of Faith he seeth the Heaven opened he may with real Charity and sincere Affection cry out Lord lay not this Sin to their Charge If it be reasonable to love Enemies so it is to love Friends this we do as Men that as Christians A new stone is laid and both are raised above the common pitch A new Commandment I give unto you that ye love one another as I have loved you that ye also love one another John 13 34. from whence the Disciple that leaned on Jesus Bosome makes this necessary inference Hereby perceive we the love of God because he laid down his Life for us and we ought to lay down our Lives for the Brethren 1 John 3. 16. To do the highest Act thereof that can be expressed There is nothing more enjoyned in the Gospel then Love. The Primitive Christians who did live exactly according to the Rule given them were remarkable for this See how they love one another was observed by the Heathens concerning them who herein fulfilled that Saying of their Lord and Master By this shall all men know that ye are my Disciples if ye have love one to another John 3. 35. But we that are reserved to the dregs of time are
will rise up again for we must all appear before the Judgment Seat of Christ that every one may receive the thing done in his Body according to what he hath done whether it be good or bad 2 Cor. 5. 10. We are only proved here how we will behave our selves towards God. It is worth while to look further to consider Man in his several Circumstances State and Condition in this World with some general Heads of Good and Evil that are set before him if he may be stirred up or put in mind of some things for his own Happiness and Safety CHAP. II. Of Man confidered in his threefold Condition Original Corrupted and Restored Of his Thoughts VVords and Actions Infancy Youth Manhood therein of Company and Marriage Of Old Age Body Senses and sensual Pleasure Of the Soul Vnderstanding VVill Affections as Love Fear Joy Sorrow Anger Hope Of Temptations The Close THou hast made Man a little lower then the Angels and hast Crowned him with Glory and Honour Psal 8. 5. One part is of the dust of the ground the other the breath of Life a reasonable Soul in which he hath resemblance to the angelical Nature and is exalted above Beasts His Happiness in the state of Innocency and how it was lost by Transgression is known by every one that reads the Scripture again he was redeemed by our Lord and Saviâ—ur Jesus Christ Rom. 5. 17 18 19. 1 Pet. 3. 18. If we are not wanting to our selves he hath restored us to as great a Capacity of good as we should have had if our Forefather had not sinned God so loved the World that he gave his only Son that whosoever believeth on him should not perish but have everlasting Life John 3. 16. Hereby perceive we the love of God towards us because he laid down his Life for us and greater love then this hath no Man then to lay down his Life for another 1 John 3. 10. The holy Spirit inspires Grace and good Motions into our hearts whom if we do not resist and so grieve he will Seal us to the day of Redemption We feel the mischievous workings of Original Corrruption and we have the same quality of our first Parent to Lust after forbidden things A coveting after Evil and averseness to Good. Behold I was shapen in iniquity and in sin did my Moâ—her conceive me Psal 51. 5. It is intermixed and grows up with every part that we all are as prone to Evil as the Sparks to fly upward Indeed goodness doth appear reasonable and lovely yet our Inclinations are backwards to the Practise of it there is a Close hankering after and Preference of the contrary The whole Man is defiled Mark 7. 21 22 23. Gen. 8. 21. Eccles 3. 9. He deviseth iniquity in his Bed he studies to do mischief His Thoughts are vain He takes no delight in Good but rather on Lust Pride and all manner of Concupisence Every mouth speaketh folly Isa 9. 17. Evil Communications Filthiness Deceit Lying and all sorts of Evil proceed out of it With Blasphemies and horrid Oaths he is dishonoured who enabled it to Speak With this Sword it is endeavoured to give our blessed Redeemer more Wounds and to crucifie him afresh The tongue is a fire a World of iniquity so is the tongue amongst our Members that it defileth the whole Body and setteth on fire the course of Nature and is set on fire of Hell. Therewith bless we God even the Father and therewith curse we Men which are made after the simitude of God Jam. 3. 6 9. Our Actions proceeding from the same corrupt Stock are of the like Nature Wise to do evil and forward to put in Execution what our wicked hearts conceive Every Member is wicked and abominably wicked Their inward part is very wickedness Psal 5. 9. and as it is further described Rom. 3. 10. to ver 18. Man is become as sinful as is possible for such a poor Creature to be with short Faculties and Powers they are stretched forth to the utmost he sins till he hath not Ability to sin any more though he hath not wherewithal to vent yet the malicious and corrupt Desire is infinite in a little finite Being The Seeds of Evil came in with the forbidden Fruit. But we must not accuse Adâ—m of our Transgression more then is due for it is our own fault if we suffer it to grow forth and improve it to that monstrous height It may be hewn down and destroyed but still the stump of the Dan. 4. 23. Roots is left in the Earth The holy One that came down from Heaven hath got this Priviledge and Power for us The Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the World could even at this present time extirpate it quite Root and Branch but that he is not pleased to do for wise Reasons yet now he puteth in such a Condition and Ability to perform so much as in and through him will be accepted and we shall come to that place where this accursed thing with all its remainders shall utterly be done away If we come unto him and sincerely do what is required under the second Covenant Christs righteousness will supply our defects The filthy Rags Isa 64. 6. Shall be cast away and we shall be arrayed in fine Linnen clean and White For the Fine Linnen is the righteousness of Saints Rev. 21. 8. What then shall we continue in sin that Grace may abound God forbid Those which make this damnable inference do mistake the Gospel Covenant which requires obedience and good Works Tit. 2. 11 12 13. 1 Pet. 2. 24. Heb. 5. 9. Christ hath brought good tidings and published Peace and brought good tidings of good and published Salvation Isa 52. 7. The same Jesus hath said Those which do iniquity shall be cast into a Furnace of fire Mat. 13. 41 42. Luk. 13. 27 28. He hath proclaimed the acceptable Year of the Lord and the Day of vengeance of our God Isa 61. 2. The Gospel is commonly said to be all mercy yet therein the wrath of God is revealed against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of Men Rom. 1. 18. so 2 Thes 1. 7 8 9. The end of both Law and Gospel is obedience by this we are freed from the Curse Gal. 3. 10 13. We have further the assistance of the holy Spirit to resist Temptations and keep Gods Commandments The stony Heart is taken away and an Heart of flesh is given Whereas the whole Man is corrupted now he is put into a way to be right again if he will use the Grace given him He may run counter to his natural State and be sanctified throughout A good Man out of the good Treasure of the Heart bringeth forth good things Mat. 12. 35. After those days saith the Lord I will put my Law in their inward parts and write it in their Hearts Jer. 31. 33. So we may draw near with a true Heart in full assurance of Faith having
Holiness insinuating as if God's Law was too strict it curbs free nature and deprives of Happiness Why should not a young Man enjoy pleasure He furnishes with several Commendations of Drunkenness Lust and other deeds of darkness He uses all tricks and devices to get our first years for if he misses them he very seldom recovers the following so contrary it proves to the forementioned saying If a man keeps all Gods Commandements from his Youth knowing that therein is great reward and having respect still to that he despises the present pleasures of Sin finding more satisfaction in the way he walks in He knows the necessity and encouragement of Perseverance 1 Cor. 15. 58. 2 John verse 8. Rev. 2. 10. It cannot be denied but there have been some Apostates the Scripture never supposes or cautions against a vain and impossible thing see Ps 125 5. Ezâ—k 18. 24. Heb. 6. 4 5 6. 10 26 38. 12 15. 2 Pet. 2. 21 22. but these are few in comparison of those who hold out unto the end If they are well grounded in the Faith and lay a good Foundation If they are quite gone out of Egypt and leave not a hoof behind Exod. 10. 26. forsaking every evil way the Sin as dear to them as their right Eye And then if they sincerely endeavour still and are not lazy or negligent not omitting the means of Grace there is no great fear but these will receive the end of their Faith the Salvation of their Souls These love God and are loved by him Who loves with an everlasting Love Jâ—r 31 3. These shall receive the Crown of Life which the Lord hath promised to them that love him Jam. 1. 12. If Satan desires to sift them as Wheat yet our blessed Advocate prevails that their Faith fail not The ministring Spirits Heb. 1. 14. Ps 91. 11. 2 Kings 6. 16. preserve against the destroying We are put in mind of good to defeat the suggestions of evil endued with spiritual Wisdom to discern and avoid the Crafts and Deceits of our Adversaries Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heâ—d least he fall 1 Cor. 10. 12. And having done all to stand Eph. 6. 13. for Christianity is not an idle state but compared to a Pilgrimage which is always going forward aâ—d using care not to be out of the way there is no doubt that the aforementioned Speech will ever be found true in him which ought to be razed out of the number of Proverbs whose nature is to be true for the most part but this is most commonly false and rules are laid down that it may be always Let none hence be discouraged from early walking in the way to Heaven We have a long Journey to go the sooner we set out so much the better If in the Spring time he hath all the year before him observing the directions in Scripture he shall neither miss the way nor be disappointed of the end which he proposes to himself For the Lord never said to the House of Jacob nor any one else Seek ye my face in vain Gird thy Sword upon thy Thigh O most mighty with thy Glory and Majesty And in thy Majesty ride prosperously because of Truth and Meekness and Righteousness Ps 45. 3 4. Looking unto Jesus there Prophesied of the Author and Finisher of our Faith. Consider him least you be weary and faint in your mind Heb. 12. 2 3. Grow in Grace and in the Knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ 2 Pet. 3. 18. till thou come to the fulness of Stature to be a Perfect Man both in the divine and common acceptation which is the third stage of Life In which we are properly Men and reasonable Creatures the Body being at its utmost pitch the understanding ripe and sound Of Manhood Now we have a right estimate of things in their own nature what we formerly admired and were pleased with we daily disesteem The gayeties of Youth appear foolish and despisable Our thoughts are altered to more substantial things Company and getting of Money are two principal things this time is taken up with and therefore it is not to step much besides the Subject matter to treat severally of them according to our purposed method in their rightful use and contrary abuse all in pursuance to the general Argument Company is thought one Of Company and Solitariness of the chief good things belonging to the Sons of Men which whosoever doth not care for is pitied as Melancholy and Miserable Indeed we are made for Society and there is implanted an inclination in our Nature towards it Our Lord when he dwelt among us did freely converse with mankind So did his Apostles They did endeavour to turn many into the right way from whence they had strayed and did effectually answer the end of Society by doing good to others As for those who retire and shut themselves from the World upon the account of Religion do otherwise then those who did understand and Practice it most Let them spend much time in Devotion yet What receiveth he of thine hand Thy Righteousness may profit the son of man Job 35. 7 8. but who runs away he doth not exercise Acts thereof How can he love his Neighbour as himself which is one half of his Duty who never performs Offices of kindness unto him The Saints of old did not lurk in Dens and Caves of the Earth till driven there by Persecution And John Baptist was in the Deserts till the day of his shewing unto Israel Luk. 1. 80. but after he Preached and lived among Men. There is no example or precept in Scripture for the solitary Life The wilful Hermite who is for pleasing God in a way he hath not shewed nor commanded doth also violence to his own just Inclinations is continually discontented and wishes he had never been for he lives only to be sensible of sad Reflections He frets at the heavy Yoke he bears which as God ordained is easie and Light but himself by Additions hath made insupportable His Life through his own Foolish choice is become like the Owl in the Desert or the pensive Inhabitants of the Wilderness Let not the Reader mis-apprehend here or in any other place for the things themselves are not so much spoken against as the Excess and abuse of them Mans Nature which must be Coâ—â—ected in order to Happiness is addicted to extreams in declining one he runs to the other and leaves the middle way of Truth so turning aside into the by-paths of Error Some being sensible of the inconvenience of too much Solitariness therefore will not use it at all and yet great advantage may be thereby received One may better converse with God by Prayer and good Thoughts Our blessed Lord would go up to a Mountain to that intent upon it was transfigured and thence ascended into Heaven And who would follow him thither it is now expedient he should sometimes go alone up to high
and Reason he hath received And suffer himself to be admonished for none is so wise or knowing but he may both learn and be put in mind of several things from those who seem weak and foolish in the Eye of the World. Every one Eccles 4. 9. 19. should endeavour to get a convenient number of good acquaintance for there is such a mutual Love amongst real Christians that they will do one another all the good they can When these meet they take as great delight in the language of Canaan as others in prophane talk They are more pleased to build up one another in our most holy Faith then others in discoursing of the best way for getting Offices or Preferment Money or Estate Honour and Pleasure Whoever thinks this strange it is because himself takes no delight in such kind of conference for want of Faith and the Love of God. Society is not confine only to Heavenly discourse there is as much subject matter for uâ— as others we can supply the defect of evil Communicationâ— wâ—â—h good And then that variety of the occurrences of the World is common to all But 〈◊〉 whose mind asâ—â—ndâ— above â—hese lower regions is indâ—â—d diverted with 〈…〉 g of the several changes and accidents here and he turns them into a good use yet his chief delight is in such discourse which relates to his better part and that Life which shall never end He finds more real satisfaction in what is good to the use of edifying then in the other kind which râ—creates only for the present concerning those things which in a short time are to be done away The Apostle finds fault with Foâ—â—â—h Talking or Jesting which are not convenient Eph. 5. 4. They render Christianity as a vain and light thing such a deportment is offensive to those within and will be apt to disgrace the Profession to those without as if it was not equally yea more grave and substantial then Philosophy and human Wisdom A good Man will guide his affairs with discretion Ps 112. 5. He knows how to behave himself with Company and how without He is endued with that self-sufficiency through God that he will not thrust himself among all sort of People good and bad for he is well contented alone and had rather be so then sit among vain persons or have fellowship with the ungodly He will not refrain from any out of a pharisaical superciliousness or say unto his Neighbour Stand thou by and come not near me for I am holier then thou Isa 65. 5. The Son of God did eat and drink with Publicans and Sinners and therefore he will not scruple to converse with any except those who are arrived at the height of Wickedness who do not at all esteem but mock the good Way With such an one he is not to keep company no not to eat 1 Cor. 5. 11. Only let your Conversation be as becometh the Gospel of Christ Phil. 1. 27. Of all Company Marriage is the most near and Honourable It was Instituted in Paradice by God Gen. 2. 18 24. and after Of Marriage confirmed by our Saviour Jesus Christ Mat. 19. 4 5 6. This is the established means for the propagation continuance and succession of mankind The Author of our nature hath implanted Mal. 2. 14. 15. a strong desire and tendency towards it We are not let loose to unbounden Lust for that would bring strange disorder and confusion into the World None would know which were his own Besides such a mixture and variety of Seed hinders Conception as appears by common Prostitutes There would be much inconvenience and ruin unless the great Law-giver had prescribed Hos 4. 10. such Rules concerning this Ordinance which as his other Commandments are wisely contrived both to carry on the Course of the World and also for tryal of Mans Obedience In which last if he approves himself he is promised Peace here and Glory hereafter Adultery Fornication strange Lusts are forbidden in the old and new Testament they being contrary to this excellent order of Life which would be miserable if the Bed were not kept undefiled the Apostle immediately adds Whoremongers and Adulterers God will judge Heb. 13. 14 All the commands in Scripture relating to Husband and Wife are exactly fitted for their mutual Comfort which again is presently lost by disobedience and variation from them That Vexation and Discontent so common amongst Married persons is because they 1 â—et 3. 7. do not fulfil the Law of Love and of bearing the Infirmities of one another Husbands do not dwell with their Wives according to knowledge giving Honour unto them as the weaker vessel or they observe not their Duty in submitting unto and obeying their Husbands They have not the Love of God in them for here to apply that of the Apostle He that loveth not his own Wife 1 Joh. 4. 20. which lies in his Bosom whom he hath seen how can he love God whom he hath not seen If he did love he would keep his Commandments and not deal Treacherously against the Wife of his Youth who is his Companion and the Wife of his Covenant Mal. 2. 14. Neither would she behave her self despitefully against her Husband Some enter upon this state for worldly and carnal ends as when Beauty Riches and a good Family as it is commonly stiled are the reasons why they determine their choice on such an Object Who instead of complying with those ends of Marriage God hath ordained frame others of their own Invention what he Instituted as an happy state of Life themselves going according to their own thoughts render miserable 〈…〉 This is not so to be understood that none should propose to himself any worldly â—â—d for he may lawfully but that must not be made chief We have an example in Abraham's Steward Gen. 24. of sâ—â—king unto God in the first place All our Actions should bâ— to hâ—s Glory and then this of so great moment is not to be exempted We are to prefer his Commandment before all other things and thâ—â— temporal considerations may come in subordinatâ— to that â—ut to have those worldly things the only or principal inducement is both sinful and foolish for the Man doth noâ— take counsel of God nor rightly consult for his own Haâ—piness To begin with Beauty which indeed is Gods Blessing and Gift Of Beauty perfect through his Comeliness but when it is trusted unto Ezek. 16. 15. and made an occasion to draw off from him then it is necessary to discover the Truth and Nature thereof It is one of the admired Idols of the World which is had in Estimation for supposed good though it be thin and vain What is a well coloured Skin Now Colour is no substantial thing and therefore cannot give satisfaction which in it self hath so little reality A faâ—r Woman hath Life and Motion otherwise she differs little from a well drawn Picture which doth delight the outward
Heart are It is no matter now for his business may be as well done at another time the longer it is staved of so much the better for then there will be the less time to serve him and if they can so much as to get Heaven it is soon enough Are these the secret Imaginations which some keep so close to themselves But they do not in the mean while throughly consider how all things are naked and opened unto the Eyes of him with whom we have to do Heb. 4. 13. so he knoweth these innermost Thoughts all one as if they were wrote legibly upon the Forehead of those who conceive them How disingenuous is this And will he not so judge of it As if he must have those things put on him which they would not suffer from their Servants For would they like those who will do just enough to receive Wages but no more and less if they could Can it be reasonably expected God will reward those base and Mercenary People who do not esteem of him but only the good things he hath prepared Who would willingly receive his Gifts but have neither Love nor Reverence for the Giver If thou wilt enter into Life keep the Commandments said he who is to judge every Mans work What those are himself hath likewise told us they are two The first is Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy Heart and with all thy Soul and with all thy mind and all thy Strength How can he do this who hath such unworthy Thoughts Such an one unless he repents of the Evil will never be judged a Lover of God and then notwithstanding all his Policy he may come short of his Expectation God doth confound the Wisdom of the Wise and taketh them in their Craftiness Those which fancy and propose to themselves some new fine and â—asie way to Heaven of their own invention it is a thousand to one but they perish in their Projects for Men must not think any way to avoid the force and obligation of Gods Commandments Indeed they may choose whether they will observe them or not but then they must not choose to themselves the reward that is promised for keeping of them Neither let them imagine to draw up new Articles of Agreement besides that Covenant of Grace God hath been pleased to establish with Man for that is only of his own making and it is merciful enough it is not come to such Familiarity that he should accept what sinful Creatures would give him It is most just that God who made us without ourselves never asked our Advice whether we should be formed Vessels to Honour or Dishonour should also give us what Laws he please making his own Terms and Conditions upon which we are to receive the Happiness whereof himself is the only Giver We are not to frame any out of our own Brain and offer them unto him for seeing he hath created us to serve him shewed us how lent us Life for a time to do it We are not to seek out new Devices or to Parcel out this time as we see best for doing thereof This is here mentioned that those may beware who think it sufficient if they allot the least Portion nay the last moment for doing that wherefore the whole was given them These are the Statutes and Judgments which ye shall observe to do all the days ye live upon the Earth Deut. 12. 1. which is not taken away but rather more confirmed under the Gospel as appears from Luk. 1. 75. Who then would be saved We learn from the Prodigal Son the Publicans and Sinners the joy over them that repent those many gracious Texts concerning it that if we do go astray and come home again we shall be received to Grace and Favour But if Men from hence take occasion to spend their days in wickedness and their Life in disobedience if they turn the Grace of God into wantonness it is an horrible abuse and who thus pervert the ways of the most High may notwithstanding their vain purposes perish for ever If they go on in their wicked Course they may unawares be given over to a reprobate mind and all their Thoughts whereby they intended to be reconciled unto God at such a time come to nothing It is both unworthy and sinful to put him of from day to day and he who doth not Love to be mocked or despised may reward such after their deservings withdraw his Grace and let them go on in their own imaginations What if one should come into the Vineyard a little sooner then needs must Is not Heaven worth Labouring all the day for And can too much be done to avoid Hell Is it not better in a thing of so great moment to come more early and to wait for your Lord that when he cometh and knocketh you may open immediately Luke 12. 36. then to â—arry till the Critical time of his coming for you know not when this will be Who knoweth That certain day that is limited after so long a time Heb. 4. 7. Who can tell exactly how far and how long he may go in the way of wickedness and return The utmost bounds are not set down But this we are assured of the further we go the more way is to come back which will require so much the more Labour and Pains Hast thou any degree of the Love of God Wouldst thou not trifle with him Dost thou seriously expect to inherit his Promises and avoid his Threatnings Hast thou any regard to the eternal Welfare or Misery of thy own dear self Art thou so Wise as not to hazard when there is no need such an exceeding good set before thee and on the other hand so great an evil Break of presently thy Sins by Repentance Turn you Turn you and then Iniquity shall not be your ruin That ye put off concerning the former Conversation the old man which is corrupt according to the deceitful Lusts And be renewed in the Spirit of your mind And that ye put on the new man which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness Eph. 4. 23 24. Then the Fruits of the Spirit recited Gal. 5. 22 23. and other practical Duties are as agreeable to our Nature as before the Works of the Flesh were When men are transformed by the renewing of the mind they prove what is that Good that acceptable and perfect Will of God. It seems so even to their real Sense and Disposition they find more Comfort and Happiness in what is good then formerly they did in evil Be not doubtful or suspicious you are in no wise required to go softly all your years in the Bitterness of your Soul But you are invited forth to what Is a Tree of Life to them that lay hold upon her and happy is every one that retaineth her Prov. 3. 18. As those can further assure you out of their own experience who sought her early Who being partakers of
strangely â—egenerated from the Practise of our Fathers living as if there was no such Command How few among us do observe the Royal Law Without are dogs Rev. 22 15. but these would be thought of the Christian Church who bite and devour one another Gal. 5. 15. If restrained by Laws of the Countrey which preserve outward Peace yet still are snarling at one another These go to Prayers as if there was no such Petition Forgive us our Trespasses as we forgive them that Trespass against us which must be begging a Curse and Condemnation instead of Blessing and Pardon These hear the Gospel which saith Be ye kind one to another tender hearted forgiving one another even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you Eph. 5. 2. One would think there was no such thing as Love mentioned if he were to judge by the Actions of some People This is no slighting Matter or as some would make it a piece of Bravery in that they can live contrary to Rules and Preaching for it will be determined what the end of those must be who obey not the Gospel Hatred is contrary to Christianity as bitter to sweet or is possible for things to be one to another Let one do never so many Acts of Worship and Devotion yet if he liveth in Malice and Revenge Strife and Envying Hatred and Variance he hath the Name and shew of Religion but nothing of the benefit and reward thereof In this the Children of God are manifest and the Children of the Devil Whosoever doth not righteousness is not of God neither he that loveth not his Brother 1 John 3. 10. If he saith he is a Christian he is not but of the Synagogue of Satan Rev. 2. 9. the Author of all black and corrupt Principles There should be a greater measure of Love amongst those who have not only the form of Godliness but the Power thereof for they also are found defective in this Duty They love indeed but somewhat of Dissimulation and Partiality goes along with it The first is thought a thing so necessary that the common Saying is He that knows not to dissemble knows not how to live It is esteemed an Act of Prudence what the Apostle calls Fleshly Wisdom but contrary to that simplicity and Godly sincerity and the Grace of God 2 Cor. 1. 12. which did give him so much Comfort and not only unto him but to all that will alike observe it Who have Conscience towards God do as in his sight speak unto Men knowing that from him Dissimulation cannot be hid What John saith is observable which he applies to this My little Children let us love not in Word neither 〈◊〉 Tongue but in Deed and in Truth Why so Hereby we know that we are of the Truth and shall assure our Hearts before him for if our Heart condemn us God is Greater then our Hearts and knoweth all things 1 John 3. 18 19 20. A smiling Countenance or flattering Speech is not enough but you must attain unto unfeigned Love of the Brethren and see that ye love one another with a pure Heart fervently 1 Pet. 1. 22. Neither is it to be confined to one particular Sect or Party as if all the Elect of God were comprised in a National Church or such a Congregation While one saith I am of this another saith I am of that ye Hate Reproach and speak Evil of one another 1 Cor. 1. 12. Hatred Variance Emulations Strife Seditions Heresies exclude out of the Kingdom of God Gal. 5. 20 21. and therefore not to be kept up by those who equally hope to be Partakers thereof It would be better if there was no distinguishing Terms or Nick-names Be not ye called Rabbi for one is your Master even Christ and all ye are Brethren Mat. 23. 8. The Disciples were called Christians first in Antioch Acts 11. 26. and ought to have never been called any thing else for Mens Persons seeing that the Apostles refused it should not be had so much in Admiration as to give Denomination to their Followers and assume unto themselves that Honour which is due unto the Son of God only It hath given occasion to Divisions raised Heart-burnings and the utmost Malice among Men to the Destruction of Charity and Luke 10. 29. Peace It is observable that Christ explaining who was Neighbour to him that fell among Thieves instances in a Samaritan and there was Division and separate Meetings between the Jews and Samaritans as among us at this Day so it is the natural and necessary Construction of the great Commandment to shew Mercy and Love to those of a different perswasion We are all Members of one another and ought to be united under Christ our Head. Behold how good and pleasant it is for Brethren to dwell together Ps 133. 1 in Vnity Much Happiness arises from true Friendship and there is none comparable to that which is built upon the firm Foundation of Christianity Nothing can be more lasting and sure if upon that alone without the rotten Prop of Worldly and sinister Respects Whatever some pretend to generous Nature or Civility none is like that which results from Goodness and Duty The chiefest Love is to be shewed forth to those of our own Profession but yet to be extended unto all Mat. 5. 45. 1 Tim. 2. 1 3 4. for though at present some are Strangers from the Covenant of Grace yet we know not how soon they may come in however we are to love them as they were made after the similitude Jam. 3 9. of God and are our Fellow Creatures Honour all Men Love the Brotherhood 1 Pet. 2. 17. If it be possible as much as lieth in you live peaceably with all Men Rom. 12. 28. What can be more reasonable Hereby a Man is freed from all the torment of malice envying and strife he is not disturbed with thoughts of revenge or knawing reproach of others which are as so many Wracks and Instruments of Cruelty to those who give way to these Sins On the other hand if there be any Satisfaction in Love any Blessing in Peace any good in mutual kindness and affection he enjoys all this In this word Love all the Law is contained and obedience so as a necessary Conclusion from this all manner of Happiness A Second Passion is Fear At first sight it may seem strange Of Fear that this which troubleth and afflicts Man should also conduce towards his Happiness But God having set down such Decrees for our Salvation as expressed in Scripture this is necessary to attain it God was pleased to take this way to be glorified as to the Inhabitants of the Earth to declare his Sovereignty over the work of his hands to set up his Kingdom and Government over us to which are annexed Rewards and Punishments proportionable to the great King who hath prepared them Mal. 1. 14. Ps 95. 43. He may justly forbid a thing upon as severe a Penalty as
he thinks fit None thinks hardly of an Earthly Prince for punishing obstinate and ungrateful Rebels Nay themselves if they have any Reason must acknowledge they suffer their deservings So it is of Gods dominion over us His infinite Majesty and Greatness require all Honour and Subjection His goodness appears that he had rather People would live quietly and obediently under his Laws I drew them with Cords of a Man with Bands of Love Hos 11. 4. So that if there was any remainders of Noble Nature and ingenuity they might be prevailed upon by his Goodness But alas we are averse to him the Author of all Good we ever received we struggle we give backwards and break these Bands asunder His love is despised then he sends forth Threatnings if they will reduce to his obedience and if they do not Sentence is to be executed accordingly If men will not love him they should fear him and that will bring them over unto his love He should be the chief Object of all the Powers of our Soul. Sanctifie the Lord of Hosts himself and let him be your fear and let him be your dread Isa 8. 13. It is Idolatry to love the Creature more then him so it is a Provocation and Contempt to fear any thing more then him Either to neglect Duty or commit Sin for any 1 Pet. 3. 14 15. terrour of men Is he not more to be feared And I say unto you my Friends Be not afraid of them that kill the Body and after that have no more that they can do but I will forewarn you whom you shall fear Fear him which after he hath killed hath power to cast into Hell yea I say unto you fear him Luke 12. 4 5. forewarned fore-armed according to the Old true Proverb and we are therefore told hereof that we may avoid it We are warned to flee from the wrath to come this we should never do unless we did fear it It is so represented to us that if we believe we must tremble for we do fear things less terrible and grievous Who is he that dares wander alone in some Desert without the least Glimmering of light That doth not shrink at being thrust down into a horrible and deep Dungeon for a few Months and Years He must much more abhor to be reserved unto the blackness of darkness for ever Jud. 13. It is sufficient to startle the boldest worker of iniquity and make him leave of to do so any more Would not he who now commits Sin because it seems to him sweet and pleasant fear to drink of the bitter dregs of the Cup of Gods wrath and to suck them out He that is now all for mirth and jollity and will purchase it at the price of wickedness not enduring any thing that is dull and tedious must be frightned with weeping and gnashing of Teeth neither can be bear with the groans and tediousness of a miserable Eternity Those which run after any thing to hinder a little Discontent of Mind and Melancholy which if turned aright would prevent all this how can they suffer the knawing Worm which never dieth The Sinners in Zion are afraid fearfulness hath surprized the Hypocrites Who among us can dwell with devouring Fire Who amongst us shall dwell with everlasting burnings Isa 33. 14. for they would be rid of a little pain and uneasiness Even those gallant Spirits who pretend to fear nothing must be moved at such things Perhaps you do resolutely suffer those Wounds received in defence of King and Countrey which are marks of Honour and they will be cured in a little time or you will be past Sense of them But you cannot so easily bear that not one single Part or Member but your whole Body should be cast into the fire which shall never be quenched where all Sufferings are full of Shame and Ignominy To have no rest but in a Bed of Flames not for one night only but another and so a third through innumerable Ages Here Courage must fail and thy brave Spirit be cast down Flesh and Blood must abhor Pain so great and of so long Ezek. 22. 14. continuance Though some are apt to say Tush God we care not for him yet if they â—eriously consider of his Judgments they must tremble and fear before him Rev. 6. 15 16 17. However those seem to swagger with big words with their horrible Oaths and Blasphemies as if they could not be Men of valour and renown unless they did contemn and provoke the Almighty yet let them prepare to meet the Lord of Hosts the God mighty and terrible Are they stronger then â—e But should a 1 Cor. 10. 22. Potsherd strive with his Maker What is vain Man whose breath is in his Nostrils to contend with that God in whom he lives moves and hath his Being who takes away his breath and he Deut. 32. 41. dies who will repay to every one according as he deserveth Let him whilst he is yet in the way hearken to those gracious Words Fury is not in me Who would set the briers and thorns against me in Battel I would go through them I would burn them together Or let him take hold of my strength that he may make Peace with me and he shall make Peace with me Isa 27 4 5. God doth not delight in Punishment it is twice called his strange Act Isa 28. 21. like a merciful good Judge unwilling to pronounce what in justice he is bound unto And 't is this utmost degree of wickedness which none arrives unto without his own perversness and fault that hath made him prepare it And he tells the Sinner he shall be too hard for him yet invites him again to Reconciliation and Favour Let him take hold of my strength that he may make Peace with me and he shall make Peace with me If he doth here slight it insinuating that Religion is an Act of Cowardise he pretends to be above that and fears nothing What an unaccountable thing is it that a little Earth-worm should affront or despise the Great Lord of all the World And if he continue so to do nothing is so just and righteous as that he should suffer for the same Even now he hath inward tremblings of the Great God and those Punishments prepared for them who hate him and will not obey his Laws As he looks out or is alone an horrible dread seizes him of the invisible Power whom he hath wickedly offended Those prophane abominable Wretches resort to continual Company and Sensuality to stifâ—e the Sense thereof By this way which must fail they strengthen themselves against the Almighty Job 15. 25. otherwise it were not possible to come up to such an height of wickedness and transgression against him Fear is implanted in all Men and the Divine Threatnings are sufficient to work upon it for the same things do terrifie now and if those were present and visible in like manner the stoutest Hearts would run
all former things are gone as a shadow that departeth nothing remains but a faint remembrance which doth not yield the least Pleasure but rather Anguish We press nearer to the things which are not seen but eternal Refreshment or Misery If one Man was to suffer all that could be laid on him in this World and to come to Heaven at last he is no more to be pitied then that common Labourer who doth but his ordinary Days-work and hath an hundred Pounds for his Reward So again if another did enjoy all the Honours and Pleasures that were to be had spent forty or sixty Years in the greatest Mirth without intermixture of trouble or weariness as none ever did all would not be a Compensation for the first hour in Hell. We cannot reasonably grudge to pass through this present Life which is not so much in reference to the other as a minute to a Year if the greatest Affliction and Hardship were to be laid on us as long as hereby we shall come to receive an infinite good through the Gift of God and avoid a like inconvenience If instead of a Barren and dry Wilderness we were to march through a fiery Furnace to the Heavenly Canaan if instead of having Prosperity mingled with Adversity all the days of our Pilgrimage were to be continually evil If instead of denying Lusts we were absolutely Commanded to cut off our right Hand and pluck out the right Eye and to do violence to the least natural Inclination yet considering the Greatness of the Joy and Sorrow set before us these would have been most equal Terms if it had pleased the Great Law-giver who is able both to save and destroy to have given them He might have done so and still be most just and bountiful But so gracious hath been our God Break forth into singing all ye Inhabitants of the Earth and Praise his Name which you can never do so much as this Love deserves to lay no more upon us then what is summed up Deut. 10. 12 13. And now Israel what doth the Lord thy God require of thee but to fear the Lord thy God to walk in all his ways and to love him and to serve the Lord thy God with all thy Heart and with all thy Soul To keep the Commandments of the Lord and his Statutes which I command thee this day for thy good Which are contrived to make us as Happy in this Life as is possible for us to be And though this had been sufficient requital of it self yet further throughout his Holy Word is manifested eternal Life Do this and live under which was more comprehended then barely living here for Transgressors did so This hath been more clearly made known by him who came since who hath brought Grace and Truth along with him Who came not to destroy the Law but to fulfil it and make it yet more for our Good for albeit the Jews by reason of the Carnality of their Hearts were allowed a more free Enjoyment of the things of this Life then we are now under the Gospel which is upon better Promises The intent whereof is to Cleanse our selves from all Filthiness of Flesh and Spirit and to perfect Holiness in the fear of God 2 Cor. 7. 1. So that Sensual Enjoyments are contrary to the Nature of our Holy Calling They are not absolutely forbidden but to be used with the greatest Moderation and so they do not in the least diminish from our real Happiness Christianity doth refine the Delights of Sence and make them more excellent We are to remember how we are way-faring Men and may receive them so far only as to refresh But in no sort to run after or when obtained to dwell so long on them as hinder our Journey And therefore to make Pleasure the business of Life or the greater part thereof as the manner of some is both contrary to Duty and Happiness For thouâ—h it be imagined such do take great Delight in them or otherwise would not follow them yet there are other Reasons as they know nothing better or not how to spend the time and idleness is so wearisome that any thing is to be done rather then endure that the Humour and Mode of the Age which they must comply with or they shall not be reputed Gentile and such like for they could forsake those esteemed Divertisements which if they reflect on in the very midst are tiring empty and unsatisfying The Pleasures of this Life choke the good Sâ—ed in the Heart which should spring up and bring forth Fruit unto everlasting Life They do alienate the Heart from God. If any man love the World the love of the Father is not in him for all that is in the World the Lust of the Flesh the Lust of the Eyes and the Pride of Life is not of the Father but is of the World 1 John 2. 15 16. No Man will say he loves these more then God himself would then affirm his own Damnation to be just Who is so wicked as this amounts unto But what are Words to be minded when Deeds manifest the contrary When one who saith he loves God yet wiâ—â— rather break his Laws then deny his own Will who to follow a sinful Pleasure will omit a necessary Duty it may be determineâ— of him for those we love we will do what they will have us He that will not part with a Paltry Lust for the sake of God when he requires it if he doth with his mouth make a shew of much Love his Heart runs after that Ezek. 33. 31. God who knoweth all things and from whom Dissimulation cannot be hid will judge accordingly for if any loves sincerely he will also forsake whatever offends his Beloved If the Pleasures are not simply unlawful in themselves yet all Excess is evil and to be avoided and that is â—o when the end for which they are used is sufficiently answered Or if they be attended with ill Circumstances and prove needlâ—ss occasions why others and our selves sin they are to be abstained from for if we love God we must have a care of the least thing that doth disp ease him Only let your Conversation be as it becometh the Gospel of Christ Phil. 1. 27. There are several mistakes which hinder this for People take Of mistakes in Religion up with less of Religion then they ought And least I speaking as to them should be thought to run upon a mistake my self therefore let it be considered all along and not only here but throughout the whole whether I speak these things as one willing to find fault or whether the Scripture nay the gracious Gospel in which they so much trust do not say the very same It is that common deciet of outward Profession and resting in the Ordinances This is reputed Religion but it is shut out from governing their Thoughts Words and Actions Let them be any how at Mens own Power and Command following their own
is but one way which is Godliness wherefore should he be lessened for walking in it Because others do not that is their fault not his he must look to himself He is to stand upon his own Legs and therefore it must be his business to take heed he doth not fall for if he should and others fall with him he only would feel the Pain of it and they when fallen will not be able to help him up It is commonly said every Man hath Power over himself let him follow his own Humour and though if we are toucht with a feeling of Humane Nature we should endeavour to do another Good and be instrumental to his Happiness yet it must be a strange Savageness when instead of doing this we are Angry and Malign him only for endeavouring after it himself If he doth well who lives according to Gods word why do we not imitate him If ill then O Lord thou hast deceived him and he is deceived Jer. 20. 7. Such an one we neither envy nor hate but Pity But John 17. 17. the Lord who Sanctifies his Chosen through his Truth and gives them his Word which is Truth can in no wise be said to deceive any If then he that come unto him unfeignedly neither doth evil nor yet is in an Errour why should the World be so enraged against him Either this or nothing is to hate without a Cause See John. 7. 7. John 15. 18 19 23 24 25. There is an Enmity in the Seed of the Serpent against God's Children Gen. 3. 15. Rev. 12. 17. they will say all manner of evil of them falsly if they think their lying may be concealed and gain Credit with others How glad are they of an appearance of evil to object against them And to spread abroad a dubious Story aggravated with the most ill Circumstances that malicious Wit can invent If concerning a Religious Person it passes current and uncontradicted but if of another there will be enough to make Excuses for him to Examine throughly and detect it of Falshood in one part and so dash it in the whole but as to him they are ready to add something to render it more odious The wicked plotteth against the just and gnasheth upon him with his Teeth Psal 37. 12. And therefore they cast Reproaches laugh and do any thing to blemish his Fame and Reputation This hath been and is the usage of the World. And who will come to serve the Lord in sincerity must provide accordingly If your Feet be shod with the Preparation of the Gospel of Peace Eph. 6. 15. You will find therein so many Blessings and Promises on this occasion that notwithstanding all hindrances you may run the way of God's Commandments Above all taking the shield of Faith wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery Darts of the wicked Verse 16. for if you believe the good things God hath prepared for them that love him and on the other hand his Terrours for the disobedient certainly such a light thing as the unsavoury Breath of talking People cannot counterpoise the Love or Displeasure of so Merciful so Just a God. When any turn from sin they must expect Mockings and Reproaches from their old Acquaintance and Partners in iniquity for having done it already They think it strange that you run not with them to the same Excess of riot speaking evil of you 1 Pet. 4. 4 5. But rather Pity then be terrified by them For these speak evil of the things they understand not 2 Pet. 2. 12. There is no Reason why they should deride those who leave their Company and the evil of their doings for they are posting on in the wrong way and unless prevented in like manner their loud and impious Laughter will shortly cease in weeping and gâ—ashing of Teeth Thus hath been viewed the great stumbling Block which hinders Of Humility the Gallants of our Age from coming into the right way They have an inward Approbation and would fain save their Souls but Reproach or lessening of Reputation they cannot submit unto Hear what our Saviour saith Verily I say unto you except ye be converted and become as little Children ye shall not enter into the Kingdom of Heaven Mat. 18. 3. There are no subsequent words of Exemption for Men of Honour and Renown He hath indeed shewed how they may be so there likewise Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little Child the same is greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven Verse 4. Let not the mighty Ones of the Earth think here is running out upon strange Doctrine for the end why they take Pride upon themselves is to be great and a way is shewed though it may seem odd yet true how to be so The Gospel runs contrary to things here If any Man among you seemeth to be wise in this World let him become a Fool that he may be wise 1 Cor. 3. 18. And so if he seems great let him become little that he may be great By doing those things which are little and despisable in the Eye of the World but great and highly esteemed by God. To lay in a greater Foundation by good Works to abound in Christian Graces and Vertues is the way to receive a greater Reward in Heaven It is commendable to be ambitious after that so far as to put upon using the means to obtain Accustoming himself to all Godly and Sober living and to have respect unto all the Commandments to lay out himself which way he shall most glorifie God and do good to mankind To improve time and every other Talent to the utmost and such like as may be learnt from Duty and Example in God's word It is worth any Mans pains to aim at the higher Degrees of Glory they being much beyond the greatest trouble that can be endured here To which he may be quickened by considering what Austerities some have suffered to gain the Kingdom of God how they have tumbled themselves naked in the Winter Snow rolled upon Thorns macerated the body with long fastings submitted unto all the inconveniencies of wilfull poverty and other hardships of Popish Superstition But these being additional services to what he hath commanded which many times make them neglected and if that was not perfect or as though the God-head needed any thing Acts 17. 25. They will oblige and give him more ex abundanti And therefore it is to be feared they are not so very pleasing in his sight even thus much we may judge of our selves that if we shew unto those under us the manner how they shall do such things we had rather they keep to that then do it another way out of their own head for as that argues self-conceit in him so a distrust of our Wisdom in that they know better and we cannot tell how we would be served If there be any such thoughts in Mortal Men or Spiritual Pride God knoweth all their performances signifie nothing and are
excellent in whom is all my delight Psal 16. 3. Mine eyes shall be upon the faithful of the Land that they may dwell with me Psal 101. 6. The Scoffing World cry out such an one to be of a low Spirit for keeping mean Company who doth aim at as great things as they do and goes as right a way to accomplish them It will be discerned who is wise and who is not and even now they receive a mutual delight and satisfaction equivalent to the greatest Jollity But to answer others Who keeps the meanest Company He that Converses with Hawks Hounds and hath Dogs to feed at his Table Or who Associates with those of the same likeness with himself who are equally made in the image of God Is not a rational Creature better then brute Beasts If thou sayest not thou art a Turk and disparagest thy self besides him who hath created us Patterns of his own Eternity But they are more lovely who have those Beauties of Holiness those Divine impressions of goodness within them which are discerned by the spiritual Eye and more esteemed of then the utmost Bodily perfection They have that Righteousness which endureth for ever and therefore to be preferred before those pompous Titles of worth which shortly shall fail and that Honour which is to be laid in the Dust They are Children and Heirs of God and Joynt-Heirs with Christ Rom. 8. 17. and if we believe these Relations do exceed those of the World it can be no more a Disparagement to Converse with them then the Son and Heir of a Nobleman though as yet he hath not one Farthing of his Fathers Demesnes By this we know that we love the Children of God when we love God and keep his Commandments 1 John 5. 2. And so again if we love God that will be manifested towards his Chosen Ones his Sons his Elect his Servants and whom he vouchsafes to stile by all Expressions of kindness We know that we have passed from Death to Life because we love the Brethren 1 John 3. 14. Where is love there an Union is desired with the object beloved and accordingly will be had Let none dissemble God knoweth the Heart and for what Reason it is if any neglects his Duty in this particular If he despise the Poor and low Estate of faithful People What shall he do when God riseth up And when he visiteth what shall he answer him Job 31. 14. Let him shew that he doth not by a Christian Conversation with them let him be gentle easie to be entreated use Hospitality without grudging speak Friendly as one Man talketh to another without scornful or ruff Language And let them be advertised from Isa 3. 5. Gal. 2. 2. not to abuse or make an occasion of Contempt anothers Humility and Courteousness for we are in no wise to confound the distinction God hath made amongst mankind The Blessing of the Lord it maketh rich and addeth no Sorrow with it Prov. 10. 22. so in his Word he hath prescribed a most excellent way for their Station and Circumstances by which they are freed from those Miseries others of like Condition are subject unto and then they enjoy the Comforts here in a much better way The Service of God doing good to their Countrey Meditation and Reading the Affairs of humane Life those moderate and innocent Delights do take off from the Irksomeness and Tediousness of time so they live happily and pass through here with more Rest and Quietness then others who take no Care what shall become of them Thus saith the Lord Let not the wise man Glory in his Wisdom neither let the mighty man Glory in his might but let him that Glorieth Glory in this that he understandeth and knoweth me Jer. 9. 23 24. 'T is not noble Birth and Extraction but that Relation which the Almighty vouchsafes to have towards mankind which makes them truly Honourable Have we not all one Father hath not one God created us Mal. 2. 10. Nay have we not the same Father after the Flesh Are we not all the Sons of a Gardiner In the most Ancient and illustrious Family if the several mean descents could be traced up those Ancestors would be found out whereof none hath Reason to be proud of What the Prophet saith Ezek. 16. 3 4 5 6. is sufficient to abase any one concerning his Original and should be an inducement not to trust in his own but to seek that Honour which cometh from God only John 5. 44. His Providence hath ordered the several distinctions in the World and hath placed them in several Seats to work out their own Salvation It is no diminishing but encrease of present Happiness to comply with the Good will of God. Wealth and Riches shall be in his House Psal 112. 3. they are already but there is somewhat better nearer within The Satisfaction of a good Conscience He is Clothed well suffers neither Hunger nor Thirst Cold nor Nakedness God hath given him both spiritual and temporal Blessings By the first he doth Love and Honour his Great Benefactor And he doth not set his Heart upon the things that are seen for that is the great danger of Worldly abundance but uses them to Minister only unto his Pilgrimage Being assured that though these are good yet God hath provided better things that when this Happiness which is imperfect and for a time is to be determined he is to arrive at that which is perfect and to endure throughout all Ages When such an one is to be taken away from his fine Habitation Estate Wife Children Servants and all that is esteemed dear amongst Men in the sight of the unbelieving World he may seem to die and his Departure be taken for Loss and Misery Whereas he shall enter into Peace They shall rest in their Beds each one walking in his uprightness Isa 57. 2. Then only his true and uninterrupted Felicity begins which shall never end Wouldst thou be in this Mans Condition Go thou and do likewise CHAP. V. Of the COMMON PEOPLE It is the Duty of all to be in some Calling An Exhortation to serve God Against Ignorance and Vnbelief Some Considerations of living in the World and further drawn from the four last things Of different Communions Of Deceits A Description of the Wicked and Godly in this World. OF this Order they are reputed in the World who do not live of their own but follow some Trade or Employment And here it may not be improper to speak somewhat concerning that and the Obligation all lye under to it As soon as God created Man he was appointed some work to do even in his best Estate of innocency But then was Labour without Sorrow and Tiresomeness for it was after added Gen. 3. 17 19. In Sorrow shalt thou eat all the days of thy Life in the sweat of thy Face shalt thou eat Bread. This was pronounced on him for us all for all have sinned in him and who can plead Freedom
the same Mould he fashioned them all The poorest acknowledge that they are as much minded by God as the rich and so far they are right but then they go further Exod. 30. 15. and make themselves his only Favourites The ground of this Error is through Mis-application of those Promises in Scripture concerning this Condition But let them not be deceived for where is any mention made of spiritual good things it is to those Poor only who walk in their Integrity Hath not God chosen the Poor of this World the Apostle doth not say all of them but those who are rich in Faith and Heirs of the Kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him Jam. 5. 2. So they must believe and love God and then they must avoid sinning against him otherwise they have no place in Heaven Indeed many of them do so and more would if they did apply themselves to God and the Word of his Grace which is able both to bring in and build up Those whom the Proud ones call the ordinary sort of People will make the greater number in Heaven We see more of them allowing for their multitude that Practice Simplicity and Godly Sincerity then we can amongst those of higher rank for these have altogether broken the Yoke and burst the bands Jer. 5. 5. Being governed by Self-will and their own humour more then the Laws of God but the others are not altogether so forgetful and refractory And have a good will towards God in General but the Prophet remarks truly how Jer. 5. 4. they have not that knowledge which is to be desired for They understand not the things of Religion so well as they should but follow their own Opinions and Fancies Satan which deceiveth the whole World Rev. 12. 9. Hath taken advantage thereof instilling into them errors and deceits If you would indeed be in the right way to Heaven and not miss thereof at last give attendance to that Word which is to shew unto all the Path of Life When some have well resolved then they are distracted about Of different Communious the way one saith it is this another that It is agreed by all that the Scriptures do shew what is right so what they point out it is good to â—oâ—â—ow They give the Character of some who Taught the way of God in Truth Mat. 22. 16. Acts 16. 17. And therefore according to what is Written those both said and did it may be most surely trusted unto There have been Questions and different Opinions in past Ages but little is said of them in Holy Writ The Prophets make no mention of them speaking against Idolatry but say nothing as to Modes of Worship Our Saviour Speaks little concerning those Separate Meetings in his time and doth not express much zeal one waâ— or another His Apostles followed the same steps One witnesseth In every Nation he that feareth God and worketh Righteousness is accepted with him Acts. 10. 35. Being applyed to Cornelius a Gentile as may be gathered from Acts 11. 18 The diversity here was greater then amongst several Communions of Christians aâ— this day and therefore much more will they be saved in each Another Apoâ—â—le saith Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing b 〈…〉 thâ— kâ—â—p 〈…〉 of the Commandments of God 1 Cor. 7. 19. In Christ Jesus neither Circumcision availeth any thing noâ— uncircumcision but Faith which worketh by love Gal. 5. 6. A new Creature Gal. 6. 15. That was as important a Question as those in controversie now bâ—t there is not so much in them as Obedience and Holiness To which aâ—â—â—e the promises of God are and nothing at all to those distinguishing terms of Perswasion among us It is evident from Psal 25. 12 14. John 7. 17. 1 Cor. 2. 10. Phil. 3. 15. That whosoever sincerely fears God with his whole heart shall be directed into all necessary and saving Truth and then he must lay aside all Prepossessions and Prejudice Pride Humour Wordly Reasons coming in simplicity of Soul only out of a desire to be right and receive the love of the Truth that he may be saved 2 Thes 2. 10. For this is evident Continuance in a willful and known error is as dangerous as a willful and known sin and therefore to be equally avoided The Word doth discover Good and Evil Truth and Falshood so the Duty of every one is to set his Conscience as in the light of God with a readiness to think and do what is most according to his revealed Will and then he shall never perish through errour or falshood All Worship is designed to please and obtain acceptance with Almighty God. The hour cometh and now is when the true Worshippers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth for the Father seeketh such to worship him John 4. 23. But this doth in no wise excuse from an humble bodily gesture and reverence of the outward Man the Subjection of both is to be shewed Therefore glorifie God in your Body and in your Spirit which are Gods 1 Cor. 6. 20. Certainly this Apostle knew what was a Gospel and Spiritual Worship yet He kneeled down and Prayed Acts 20. 36. The like did our Saviour Luke 22. 41. And Stephen and Peter Acts 7. 60 Acts 9. 40. It is to be observed in Publick Worship for so did Paul that being more Solemn and whereby God is Glorified Though the Lolling sort of behaviour is so much in use among the Country People when they come into the presence of God let them use it before their Governour or Great Men How will they be pleased with it And if they will not neither will he who even now remains a Great King and his Name is dreadful among the Heathen Mal. 1. 8 14. And though some may think that no more then another place yet they may consider what our Lord did John 2. 16 17. Mark 11. 15 16 17. Signifying plainly that more regard is to be had to the House of Prayer so called of all Nations and People extending to the Gospel Isa 56. 7. times when they come in The Apostle finds fault with the Corinthians abusing of the Sacrament making a Common Meal of it Have ye not Houses to eat or drink in or despise ye the Church Psal 29. 9. of God 1 Cor. 11. 22. The subject of that Chapter is about a comely behaviour in the Holy Assemblies What can be said to these plain Scriptures or how can they excuse themselves from Sin in not observing them Let Men put what meaning they will God is judge himself and they may at the last day be severely reproved for not obeying that command the reason whereof is eternally Obligatory Ye shall keep my Sabbaths and reverence my Sanctuary I am the Lord Lev. 19. 30. The design of the whole Gospel is Peace Unity and Love see Rom. 12. 18. Rom. 16 17. 1 Cor. 1. 10. 1 Cor. 10. 17. 2 Cor. 13. 11. Phil.
did not take up our rest there for we believed God had provided better things We fully trusted unto what some did only make a reserve of and therefore would make sure of the Wordly happiness O wonderful wise in their own Opinion and accordingly did run after every trifle snatch at every thing goodly to behold did tear their flesh with thornes and briers walked through deserts and wandred out of the way and so missed of the place to which those who had faith are arrived Deut. 32. 20. It will be more Happiness to the blessed Spirits in Heaven to remember that they came thither with more ease and less trouble then those accursed Souls did find in the way which led to Hell which consideration will be a greater degree of torment to them This is true of all sorts and conditions of Men from the highest to the lowest whatever rank they stand in the World it is their greatest happiness to fear God and keep his Commandments then which what more forcible Exhortation can be desired to perswade Men For the very same doth prevail as to all other things CHAP. VI. A Survey in General of those sins which hinder the Happiness of Mankind as contrary to Scripture and from the very nature of Things HItherto hath been shewed out of Gods Word what is required of Man in every state and condition and what is most for his own Happiness Nothing can be done too much to further this great end and therefore it is necessary to proceed unto the discovery of those things which promise and make a shew of Happiness but in truth hinder from obtaining Every single person proposes to himself some Felicity which is the end of his Actions Now the mistake is wherein this Happiness of Man is placed Whether in obedience to Gods Commandments or taking the full of the things of this World following his own inclinations and humours God hath given Laws to his Creatures the transgression of which is Sin. As soon as the World was peopled the Wickedness of Man was great in the Earth and every imagination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually for all flesh had corrupted his way upon the Earth Gen. 6. 5 12. Evil hath interwoven it self into every particle of his Nature he is become strangely in love therewith not knowing or rather not minding that like a sweet Poyson causes Sickness and Death so this brings Misery and Ruine The fault is wholly in himself for he will be ignorant Love is blind according to the Proverb and also it prejudices The resolution is not to part with and so shuts the Eyes stops the Ears not suffering himself to be perswaded of its Deformity and Mischief Sin hath stole away the hearts of the Men of this World it kisses and flatters insinuating what a deal of good it will do them what pleasure it affords By one Man sin entred into the World Rom. 5. 12. It prevailed upon him after such a colloguing and creeping manner We may blame our Fore-Father for putting the Seeds of evil in but yet by the assistance given us we may stop the growth thereof Sin hath this Advantage that it hath taken Root and hath one part even our dear flesh to side with it Which as so much dung and soil makes it shoot forth abundantly yet still as it appears above ground we may cut it off And if we alwayes keep it thus short it may indeed and will somewhat trouble us as long as we remain in this sinful Earth but it will not overcome or triumph over us Let not sin reign in your Mortal Body Rom. 6. 12. The Apostle well knew what â—e said in calling it a Mortal Body If absolutely without sin it could not be Mortal for Death is by reason of Sin But he further explains himself verse 14. Sin shall not have dominion over you for ye are not under the Law but under Grace 'T is the Dominion and Power of sin which is really and finally hurtful from that any one may be freed who will come unto Christ Without me ye can do nothing John 15. 5. And again We can do all things through Christ that strengthneth us Phil. 4. 13. Men are naturally apt to give back yea and corruption hath so weakned them that they cannot go unto him No Man can come unto me except the Father which sent me draw him John 6. 44. And if any will seek unto God for this purpose he will powerfully move and incline them to be followers after Christ When one is brought over to a thing with great striving and unwillingness it is a common saying that he is compelled though at last he yields to it freely compare Mat. 22. with Luke 14. 23. And so God doth work by his Spirit upon the untoward hearts of Men He gives Grace and corruption is there also and these struggle together within the Man. Though corruption hath the start of being there before and doth influence yet Grace sollows close at the heel hath power with God and with Men and will prevail But the Question is with which the Man will side and take part whether he will work together with the Grace of 2 Cor. 6. 1. God or yield to his own corruptions and so receive that in vain He cannot be neuâ—er or unconcerned for the War is within him and it is here as between the house of David and Saul the one grows stronger and stronger the other weaker and weaker according to the single Victories one hath over the other To him that hath shall be given who useth well shall have more but who doth not from him shall be taken away that which he hath An old hardned Sinner bred up in ungodliness from his Youth is as awkward to Prayer or good Duties as a stone to flie upwards yet in his life time past had Disposition and Power to do those things unto which now he is averse So he who hath little and few good motions yet if he doth cherish and comply with these from time to time he will have them greater and more impulsive The Spirit of God is a delicate thing and cannot endure to be vexed who rebell against its dictates and thwart its desires do provoke him to with-draw What passionate intreaties doth Isa 63. 10. he make to reclaim sinners O! that my people had hearkened unto me and Israel had walked in my wayes Psal 81. 13. Yea I have loved thee with an everlasting love therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee Jer. 31. 3. Some are moved by this and others are of such base nature as to resist it And the Spirit and the Bride say Come and let him that heareth say come and let him that is Athirst come and whosoever will let him take the water of life freely Rev. 22. 17. Here is Conscience Christ his Ministers the want and desire of good and comprehensively all other motives which invite but none is forced for all
Labour in the very Fire and the People shall weary themselves for very Vanity Hab. 2. 13. According as his Divine Wisdom hath established things and all to bring back to his Obedience that they may go and return to their first Husband for then was it better with them then now Hos 2. 7. There is an Enemy which lets from this and he whispers to those he withdraws that hence it appears there must lye hid some great Good which they cannot have before they have long wrestled He would fain insinuate of a Satisfaction behind that will not be had unless they take Pains for it and the greatest things are reserved at last If the covetous Man could get so much then he would have Happiness and Contentment That at length is obtained with much Sweat and Drudgery but then his mind is altered he hath need of more and so on he hath not yet laid hold of that Satisfaction he looked after it is further off â—â—ill and so continues to make towards it Thou mistaken Fool There is neither Satisfaction at the end and if there was thou couldst not come to it How much dost thou propose to thy Self Why another hath the same already and he is not satisfied and why shouldst thou in the same Condition Thou hast lower Thoughts but they will Rise with thy Wealth and if thine should come to be equal with his thy Thoughts would be the same also He that loveth Silver shall not be satisfied with Silver nor he that loveth abundance with increase This is also Vanity Eccles 5. 10. Every one crys for what is sufficient but how much is that If it were stated according to the desires of Grace Nature and Conveniency it might be quickly had If People would use only Honest and diligent Endeavours in their Calling and expect Gods blessing let him judge what is the Competency and not we our selves But if it is measured by the covetous Mans Opinion when he shall cease to ask any further then is no hope to obtain it For he may as well think when he goes as far as he can see that he shall touch the Horizon as that he shall be satisfied when he gets what he now proposes within himself If any do desist in going after Wealth and the Promised satisfaction thereof it is not because that it is obtained for the use of Riches as they Subminister all Plenty of Meat Drink and Raiment do content the Body but will not throughly satisfie the mind of Man much less will the bare keeping of them in a Chest What doth it signifie if one hath a rich Neighbour and finds no benefit at all by him And it may be the same if not worse for the Fear and Care of losing Property Torments more then the Priviledge of having it amounts unto with the Man to whom God hath given Riches Wealth and Honour so that he wanteth nothing for his Soul of all that he desireth yet God giveth him not Power to eat thereof but a stranger eateth it this is Vanity and it is an evil Disease Eccles 6. 2. Be exhorted to put an end to thy Covetousness and wearisome Labour Wo to him that increaseth that which is not his how long And to him that ladeth himself with thick Clay Hab. 2. 6. Thy Life draws to an end and then it is not thiâ—e how soon thy years may be run out thou knowest not Consider to what purpose do you consume strength and time Shall you give account to God how careful you have been to the World and in the letteral Sense of the Parable VVhat a good Servant you have been How thou hast put thy Money to the Exchangers and Vsury and hast gotten so much Mat. 25. by other ways of dealing God doth not require any to be Rich but all to be innocent He would have his Servants do that he gives them in Charge viz. Obey his Commandments When he calleth to Account Then it will be demanded whether we have inclined our Hearts to his Testimonies and not to Covetousness Whether we have loved Gold more or it hath divided our Love with God whether we have broken his Commandments for Gain or neglected Duty for present advantage Such things will be required Wherefore let him that been an idâ—later or unrighteous repent and be so no more Do not transgress the least Precept for the greatest Profit The getting of Treasures by a lying Tongue is a Vanity tossed to and fro of them that seek Death Prov. 21. 6. You must ere long part with whatever you have and have a Care you do not lose your self You will be stript naked destitute and forsaken of all and how sad would it be If you should be condemned for what you must leave behind and cannot carry with you VVash ye make ye clean put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes cease to do evil learn to do well seek â—udgment relieve the oppressed plead for the VVidow Isa 1. 16 17. Leave off your former Greediness and unjust Dealing be bountiful and Charitable Act with all good Conscience and Honesty stand up for them you have wronged heretofore And which should be done in the first place for Mercy is before Sacrifice and Justice before Alms giving Be sure to make restitution and satisfaction for all the injury you have done according to Numb 5. 7 8. Do not think to bring the price of a VVhore or a Dog to give Alms of See Deut. 23. 18. Goods unjustly gotten If ye be willing and obedient ye shall eat the good of the Land. But if ye refuse and rebel ye shall be devoured with the Sword for the mouth of the Lord hath spoken it Isa 1. 19 20. Under the shew of temporal Calamity the eternal threatning of God is vailed throughout the Old Testament It is a little more drawn aside Isa 33. 14. but expressed in the most plain words under the Gospel God is truth and hath not frightened People with a Lye He who is as good as his Word in all things as all believe he is in his Promises doth not threaten that which is not or he will not perform It is a sad adventure for any one to run either God must prove a Lyar or himself be turned into Hell he might equally throw himself into the Fire to try if it will not burn For our God is a consuming Fire Heb. 12. 29. And so will at length appear to the miserable experience of the ungodly and disobedient that they may tremble and fear to continue so Will they not be perswaded to make all haste to flee from that Whereof the thoughts only are so very dismal that People are afraid to entertain them but take no due Care to escape the thing it self That which is irksome to the apprehension will be much more to the Senâ—e and what is dreaded afar off will be more terrible when it comes nâ—gh It vexes now the thought for a moment but will
hinders the Accommodation that it may be taken away and then the business is done It is not to lead People on in a bare outward Profession or a partial Observation of the Law but to bring them over unto universal Obedience And he who either will not or dare not do this is not fit to be a Labourer in the Vineyard But unto the wicked God saith What hast thou to do to declare my Statutes or that thou shouldst take my Covenant into thy Mouth Psal 50. 16. He had better seek any other way for a Livelihood then to take the oversight of the Flock of God for filthy lucre 1 Pet. 5. 2. and be negligent thereof Why a good Nature cannot endure to disturb but he must when it is to prevent a greater Evil. Who finds fault with a Surgeon that Pricks to let Blood in order to Health which as it is common so most kind and reasonable All the irksomeness that can be to further our everlasting Happiness and hinder alike Misery allowing for the exceeding Greatness thereof will not amount to so much as Men endure and take it patiently in Case of a slight temporal Good or Evil. Aâ—d I beseech you Brethren suffer the VVord of Exhortation for I have written a Letter unto you in few words Heb. 13. 22. There must some haâ—sh sayings now and then drop from the Preachers mouth if he doth according to the Apostolical injunction make full Proof of his Ministery 2 Tim. 4. 4. The Hearers must bear them patiently and do thereafter if they intend to be saved They are to receive as Eli did from the Child Samuel who told him every whit and hid nothing from him and he said It is the Lord let him do what seemeth him good 1 Sam. 3. 18. Or as Hezekiah heard the Prophets sad Message to his Posterity Good is the VVord of the Lord which thou hast spoken Isa 39. 8. There is an unwillingness to speak of Gods threatnings The Prophets of Old would fain excuse themselves yet they would not be disobedient to the Spirit of God and it was with kindness to the People by first exhorting them to Repentance to prevent the approaching Ruin. And I do not believe any good Man doth love to tyrannize over the Hearts of others by putting them into fear and dread but knowing the terror of the Lord we perswade Men 2 Cor. 5. 11. They do not otherwise declare the whole Counsel of God and they must to keep People from falling under the severity thereof for it would be an odd kind of Mercifulness to let them slide down into Hell because we will not before-hand disturb them a little with the Rumour thereof Doth any one who forewarns another such an Evil or Inconvenience will come upon him unless he hinders it such a way therefore meet with unkindness In no wise but on the contrary all thanks and Good-will There is altogether the like Reason it should be the very same as to the things of God and Eternity Besides it is not he but the Word which doth it No Post or Herald can be justly blamed for publishing what we Fancy severe Edicts and Proclamations for they are Servants and must do what their King Commandeth but if any injury is offered them Mark 12. 4 5 9. He takes it as upon himself and will punish accordingly He that is sent a Minister of Christ's Church did never descend into the deep nor hath he seen any of those dreadful things of the invisible World. He is only to make known and proclaim what he finds in the written Word of God. Who considering his infinite Greatness more then the Ocean is to a single drop over those who are but meer Creatures the Work of his hands hath made righteous Ordinances enforced with sutable Rewards and Punishments notwithstanding the latter may seem hard and grievous to us Yet how great soever they are miserable experience sheweth they are necessary to preserve his Government and to keep us in Subjection and Obedience In Truth we cannot well shew it otherwise then by a reverent Regard and Conformity to his Word No Man hath seen God at any time John 1. 18. Nor doth now hear his Voice In what manner then shall he shew himself subject to this infinite Being Let him shew forth never so much will-Worship Humility or neglecting of the Body think to gratifie with something of his own as corrupt Nature is too fond of its own Inventions yet if he hath not regard to the prescribed Pattern all is esteemed as cutting off a Dogs neck the Reason is added Yea they have chosen their own ways If he offers up never so much or seeks to please Isa 66. 2 3. him that signifies nothing For all these things have been saith the Lord But to this Man will I look even to him that is of a poor and contrite Spirit and trembleth at my VVord If God should shake the Heavens and the Earth the most stout Inhabitants here would tremble and they could not do otherwise But now he sanctifies the Lord and makes him his dread who shews himself awful and pliant at hearing or reading of his revealed Will. If he did roar from Mount Zion or utter his Voice from the Battlements of Heaven then the People would presently cry out after their wonted manner All that the Lord hath spoken we will do But when the noise is gone and the fear is over they would forget that and return to their own ways Now it remains written in a Book that it may not be once but for ever and there is the still Voice of the Spirit which would set it home to our Hearts and by this way he is pleased to try our Obedience And indeed how can it be better shewn forth then by sincere doing according to that which we surely believe to be the very mind of God what he would have us to do Yet alas What strugling and contesting is there against this A manifest Token of that disobedience which lies hid in the heart of Man and puts it self forth by Cavil Distinguishing Evasion or setting themselves against those who keep close to it All this proceeds from that Root of Enmity and unwillingness to comply therewith He that is of God heareth Gods words John 8. 47. VVhen ye received the word of God ye received it not as the word of Men but as it is in Truth the word of God which effectually worketh also in you that believe 1 Thes 2. 13. All is but vain and deceitful words which have not Relation to this Rule either by necessary Consequence or Connexion God is Truth and his word is Truth John 17. 17. and if we say we love God we must also in the Apostles Phrase receive the love of the Truth that we may be saved 2 Thes 2. 10. That People may not be left at uncertainty to know what it is it may be discerned by the Touch-stone and also it hath a full
that we are related and the Objects of his Concern That 〈◊〉 doth and will punish the World for their Evil and the wicked for their iniquity Isa 13. 11. is manifested when his wrath is kindled a little for sometimes Punishment doth begin to seize on the ungodly Sinner even before he goes to receive the full recompence of his doings By that abundant Misery which is every where he doth let all the Earth know that he hath indignation against Sin and this the place thereof Again on the other hand By seeing the felicity of his Chosen by that little taste of Happiness he gives unto his dutiful Children He doth thereby assure that he designs to bring them unto greater to encourage here and reward hereafter Their affliction and trouble doth manifest the Sin even these have They are chastened of the Lord that they should not be Condemned with the World 1 Cor. 11. 32. That liberal Provision and plenty the Evil and unthankful have is for Tryal or Retribution for even these do some little good So that a Man shall say Verily there is a reward for the Righteous Verily he is a God that judgeth in the Earth Psal 58. 11. The Lord looketh from Heaven He beholdeth all the Sons of Men from the place of his Habitation he looketh upon all the Inhabitants of the Earth He fashioneth their Hearts alike he considereth all their VVorks Psal 33. 13 14 15. God doth care for us and we have to do with him Heb. 4. 13. notwithstanding his infinite Greatness for he hath been pleased to admit thereof The VVord Prayer and Praise do keep up this astonishing intercourse They expel the former Hatred Aversation and Strangeness Can two walk together except they be agreed Amos 3. 3. But they may when they are Acquaint now thy self with him and be at Peace Job 22. 21. Abraham was called the Friend of God Jam. 2. 23. Many like sayings the Holy Ghost makes use of as may create Humble Boldness and love to him There is nothing affrightful in him to good Men but perfect love casts out Fear 1 John 4. 8. When this once begins to be established and rooted it is no harshness to make mention of his name then to talk and think of him must be exceeding delightful The very reason why natural and disobedient people cannot endure to hear or speak of God is for want of what is here mentioned and they judge of others by themselves But examine your selves is there any torment to speak of what one loves There is such a thing as love of God if themselves would turn from every evil way and come nearâ—â— they might be happy partakers and not only conceive but be sensible thereof It is the whole required of Man to love God with all his Heart all his Soul all his Strength and all his Mind to love him better then any yea all things besides As much as he can and to use sincere endeavours to love him more The first thing to be done before any can come unto that is to hate evil Psal 97. 10. And then we may love the Lord which gives a delicate relish of every duty we owe unto him O how love I thy Law it is my Meditation all the Day Psal 119. 97. My Meditation of him shall be sweet I will be glad in the Lord Psal 104. 34. My Mouth shall be satisfied with Marrow and Fatness whilst my tongue praiseth thee with joyful lips Psal 63 5. Praise ye the Lord for it is good to sing praises unto our God for it is pleasant and praise is comely Psal 147. 1. But God commendeth his love towards us in that while were yet sinners Of the Sacrament Christ died for us Rom. 5. 8. Now it is just and reasonable that wonderful and gracious works should be had in remembrance To this end our Lord instituted the Sacrament of his Body and Blood that we may call to mind the one was broken the other shed for us to obtain the forgiveness of our sins This do in remembrance of me Luke 22. 19. Here is a positive command and the refusal is an act of Disobedience It is called by his own name the Communion of the body of Christ and the communion of the blood of Christ 1 Cor. 10. 16. The Psalmist seems to have intended it in a prophetick Spirit when he said I will take the Cup of Salvation and call upon the name of the Lord Psal 116. 13. So that it may be applyed to this Every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward Heb. 2. 2. Again He that despised Moses Law died without Mercy Heb. 10. 28. That Soul which did not receive the Passover was to be cut off from his people And ought not the Marke 12. 6. Son of God himself be as much reverenced in the Commandments he gave us Did he not work for us a greater Salvation then the other did for our Fore-fathers in delivering them from the Land of Aegypt May it not be fearfully expected that those who either contemn or wilfully neglect this divine institution shall not be admitted into that eternal inheritance Christ hath purchased for us And where I am there shall my Servant be John. 12. 26. But he is none who will not do the things Christ saith and commands Let all consider of this and fear and lay hold of opportunity for this duty That of 1 Cor. 11. 28 29. should not keep people away for this is a certain Rule That if one truly repents and discerns the Lords Body that is esteem it more then common Bread and Wine he can never eat or drink unworthily A common and ordinary capacity doth not judge of more then he sees or handles Indeed there are too many especially in Country Towns and Villages that are sunk into gross Ignorance and Darkness as to spiritual things who was in the fault will be judged at the last day There being throughout our Land like Priest like People both backward and unwilling the one to give the other to receive instruction Yet any one that is a Man and reasonable Creature otherwise he could not do the common business of life may conceive thus much that God is who made the World and all things therein The Bible is his Word and whatsoever is written therein is most true and certain When this is heard or read sincerely it will by degrees let in more Light into his Soul Especially if he goes to the place where it is Preached and Expounded He may come to understand the sence and meaning for the Scripture in necessary things is very plain and then to conceive thereof in his mind There he may learn that under the old Law God instituted many Ceremonies and required the punctual observation of them and though the beggarly Elements and carnal Ordinances are done away for they were Types of Christ our Passover who is now risen yet since his supper is ordained to be kept in
God should be called Wise So he is stiled Only VVise Rom. 16. 27. Our Saviour checked one for calling him Good upon the same Reason In like manner none should be called Happy which is the Comprehension of all but we are in the way and do endeavour after Happiness only And when we shall come there we must with the four and twenty Elders fall on our Faces to ascribe Greatness and Blessedness unto our God only for he hath created all things and of him are all things and they do but partake of his Fulness and all they have is from him But hold we are now in the way and therefore are to be more careful about this then what shall be at the End. We should know and do what helps toward this perfect Happiness The Goodness of a thing lies in its right Temper and Equality Health of Body consists in a due Circulation of the Blood in the even and usual Proportion of moist and dry hot and cold So there is Peace in the Soul when the understanding doth its Office the Desires and Passions keep still in their just place and each doth what he should do For if they do nothing all as it is the wretched Condition of many Whose Soul as it were sleeps in the Body just keeping Life and Sense who in Laziness and Sloth do rather snort then live out their days this deceives into Misery It hath a shew of Peace but it is Stupidity descends into the lower parts and utterly hinders from coming up to Heaven And this though it makes no such great noise is the Destruction of the World their refusing to exercise that Ability God hath given them either by not using the powers of the Soul or not doing it to the utmost on its proper and excellent End. VVherefore is a price put into the hands of a Fool and he hath no heart to get Wisdom Let the latter sort consider this Command of our Lord strive to enter in at the streight Gate for many I say will seek to enter in and shall not be able Luke 13. 24. Do but really endeavour according to what thou canst for not those who Strive but Seek that is in a careless and negligent manner who miss thereof We being now in the way to the Rest that remaineth for the People of God must go on and be travelling or we shall never come to it Again all things succeed well when they keep within their own Station and bounds and move according to their several kinds more then this is Confusion and Disorder Iâ—ss is lying still and involves in the doom of unprofitable Servants In the things Commanded us some may seem to thwart our Nature yet only as it is corrupted but they are not contrary to it when considered in its Original purity If any thing seems harsh and iâ—ksome it is to better and to advance to heal that which was sick to restore the fallen to recover sight to the blind to give Liberty to the Captive It is reasonable to undergo a little trouble or inconvenience in order to a greater Good that also is in our selves for we sinned with our Father and have since added fresh Provocation to his Disobedience Now the Law is ordained to help and retrieve the Condition of poor Man that he may come to himself Luke 15. 17. take Care that he do not sink below himself to bring him into his due posture and then to raise him yet higher By setting before us and then stirring us up to endeavour after those great and precious Promises that by these you might be Partakers of the Divine Nature having escaped the Corruption that is in the World through Lust 2 Pet. 1. 4. First to make us Men and then to be as Angels and thence to be translated into a Greater Similitude unto God himself The End of the Commandment is Charity out of a pure Heart and of a Good Constience and Faith unfeigned 1 Tim. 1. 5. Love to God and Men a right inward Disposition of the Soul is the whole required of us There are indeed some things given to prove our Love Obedience and Faith Of this sort are the Precepts of Self denial Taking up the Cross hating Father and Mother subjecting our selves unto Persecution rather then offend God. This exercises Faith and Love in a high Degree because we endure real present and visible inconveniences only out of Respect to him that is invisible for future but certain Rewards Even now he gives Grace and Strength to bear hereby assuring he will give Glory and Recompence hereafter God doth by inward Consolation or outward Help arm his Servants against all Sufferings There are none of his Commandments though they may seem austere to the ignorant and disobedient but tend to the Happiness of those who do thereafter God is good to all who believe wait and trust in him But these are extraordinary Precepts which are as Abrahams offering up his Son that the Tryal of us might be more perfectly had to which particular chosen Ones are called out They happen only at some Seasons according as his Gracious for so I will call it here Providence is pleased to Order Persecution Reproach Losses are not all the days of our Life these are shortened for the Elects sake For the Rod of the wicked shall not Rest upon the lot of the Righteous lest the Righteous put forth their hands unto iniquity Psal 125. 3. they also are but Flesh There is a taking up the Cross daily Luke 9. 23. but that may be understood of a Preparation against it or a suffering in lesser inconveniencies Yet still it is so ordered by the Goodness of God that his Servants may pass the greater part of their time in Rest and Quietness If they have Evil returned for Good this doth not arise from the Commandments of God but from the iniquity and perverseness of Men. Those are good and reasonable but the inconvenience Springs from the Malice and â—olly of others Take away that and there would not be the least outward harm in obeying God. The greater Persecution arises from hence for it is not through following of good only if they keep that to themselves The wicked may hereupon conceive secret Rancour and Indignation yet this doth not commonly break forth into open violence But then for the other part when they come to meddle with the People to tell them of their Transgressions and seek to reform them this was the unwelcome Message that stirred them up to Hatred and Cruelty Now consider the thing abstractedly a King sends a Messenger to his Subjects to acquaint them of the Violation of his Laws He would have them make acknowledgment and do so no more then they shall have Protection and Peace otherwise they shall be destroyed As God is greater then Man Why should he be hardly thought of for keeping up his Government over the work of his hand Wherein is his Messenger to be blamed What fault is