scripture_n itself_o frequent_o put_v we_o in_o mind_n of_o and_o not_o without_o reason_n because_o the_o devil_n sow_v his_o tare_n among_o the_o wheat_n error_n and_o these_o too_o fatal_a and_o destructive_a one_o be_v frequent_o obtrude_v upon_o the_o world_n for_o the_o revelation_n of_o god_n and_o every_o party_n nay_o every_o single_a author_n lay_v the_o stress_n of_o salvation_n on_o their_o peculiar_a and_o distinguish_a opinion_n belove_a believe_v not_o every_o spirit_n but_o try_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n because_o many_o false_a prophet_n be_v go_v out_o into_o the_o world_n 1_o john_n 4.1_o it_o be_v needless_a to_o multiply_v text_n or_o word_n on_o this_o occasion_n when_o the_o peace_n and_o purity_n of_o our_o mind_n the_o rectitude_n and_o happiness_n of_o our_o life_n and_o the_o blessedness_n of_o eternity_n have_v so_o close_a and_o necessary_a a_o dependence_n upon_o the_o doctrine_n we_o imbibe_n that_o we_o hereby_o either_o secure_v or_o forfeit_v they_o who_o see_v not_o unless_o he_o be_v stupid_a and_o infatuate_v that_o great_a care_n and_o solicitude_n be_v necessary_a here_o than_o in_o any_o matter_n whatever_o because_o there_o be_v no_o other_o equal_a moment_n bad_a money_n or_o bad_a ware_n instead_o of_o good_a a_o ill_a title_n or_o conveyance_n instead_o of_o a_o firm_a and_o clear_a one_o may_v impoverish_v we_o bad_a drug_n instead_o of_o good_a may_v infect_v the_o body_n and_o destroy_v the_o health_n but_o what_o be_v all_o this_o to_o the_o dismal_a consequence_n of_o error_n and_o heresy_n which_o impoverish_v and_o infect_v the_o mind_n prevent_v the_o life_n and_o damn_v the_o man_n to_o all_o eternity_n the_o example_n of_o the_o berean_o be_v never_o forget_v and_o indeed_o never_o ought_v to_o be_v on_o this_o occasion_n we_o must_v admit_v nothing_o hasty_o assent_n to_o nothing_o without_o examine_v the_o ground_n on_o which_o it_o stand_v credulity_n precipitation_n and_o confidence_n 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they_o to_o discern_v and_o demonstrate_v plain_o the_o connexion_n and_o dependence_n of_o one_o upon_o another_o and_o the_o unquestionable_a evidence_n of_o each_o this_o be_v a_o work_n of_o time_n and_o labour_n the_o fruit_n of_o a_o regular_a and_o assiduous_a search_n after_o truth_n and_o if_o the_o capacity_n and_o fortune_n of_o all_o man_n will_v not_o suffer_v they_o to_o come_v up_o to_o this_o they_o must_v come_v as_o near_o as_o they_o can_v but_o if_o such_o a_o search_n as_o this_o be_v not_o necessary_a to_o penetrate_v the_o depth_n and_o to_o discover_v the_o beauty_n of_o divine_a truth_n or_o to_o convince_v the_o world_n and_o ourselves_o of_o the_o certainty_n of_o they_o yet_o certain_o without_o it_o we_o shall_v never_o be_v able_a to_o extract_v their_o force_n and_o virtue_n and_o to_o derive_v purity_n and_o nourishment_n from_o they_o which_o be_v the_o next_o thing_n imply_v in_o the_o rule_n lay_v down_o 3._o we_o must_v make_v frequent_a and_o serious_a reflection_n on_o the_o truth_n we_o do_v know_v this_o again_o natural_o follow_v from_o the_o notion_n of_o illumination_n as_o it_o be_v before_o settle_v for_o if_o it_o be_v not_o every_o knowledge_n of_o the_o best_a thing_n that_o suffice_v for_o illumination_n but_o a_o vital_a and_o operative_a one_o that_o be_v a_o well_o ground_v clear_a distinct_a and_o well-digested_a one_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o constant_a daily_a and_o devout_a meditation_n be_v necessary_a to_o illumination_n because_o it_o be_v not_o a_o transcient_a and_o perfunctory_a reflection_n upon_o the_o most_o important_a truth_n it_o be_v not_o a_o fleet_a ramble_a irregular_a and_o desultory_a meditation_n of_o they_o that_o will_v possess_v we_o with_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o knowledge_n to_o imprint_v a_o truth_n in_o lively_a notion_n upon_o our_o mind_n to_o digest_v it_o into_o nourishment_n and_o strength_n and_o make_v it_o mix_v itself_o with_o all_o our_o affection_n and_o all_o our_o action_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o we_o dwell_v upon_o it_o with_o constancy_n and_o delight_n and_o according_o we_o find_v that_o excellent_a and_o elevate_a soul_n both_o under_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o the_o new_a have_v be_v daily_o nay_o almost_o hourly_o conversant_a in_o the_o book_n of_o god_n they_o have_v be_v passionate_o devote_v to_o the_o study_n of_o it_o and_o delight_v more_o in_o it_o than_o in_o treasure_n or_o honour_n than_o in_o the_o most_o profitable_a employment_n or_o engage_v diversion_n of_o life_n it_o be_v this_o kind_n of_o meditation_n on_o god_n on_o jesus_n the_o world_n and_o our_o self_n that_o can_v alone_o acquaint_v we_o thorough_o with_o each_o it_o be_v this_o kind_n of_o meditation_n on_o death_n and_o judgement_n heaven_n and_o hell_n that_o can_v make_v we_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o that_o i_o have_v say_v on_o this_o rule_n amount_v to_o this_o that_o illumination_n be_v not_o to_o be_v attain_v without_o labour_n and_o travel_v it_o be_v indeed_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n but_o such_o a_o one_o as_o he_o will_v never_o bestow_v but_o upon_o those_o who_o ask_v and_o seek_v and_o knock_v divine_a bounty_n and_o human_a industry_n do_v here_o very_a well_o accord_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n general_o join_v they_o together_o and_o it_o be_v boldness_n and_o impiety_n in_o man_n to_o go_v about_o to_o divide_v they_o prov._n 2.4_o 5_o 6._o if_o thou_o seek_v she_o as_o silver_n and_o search_v for_o she_o as_o hide_a treasure_n then_o shall_v thou_o understand_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o find_v the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n for_o the_o lord_n give_v wisdom_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n come_v knowledge_n and_o understanding_n nor_o will_v any_o one_o sure_o think_v it_o much_o to_o devote_v his_o time_n and_o labour_n to_o the_o attainment_n of_o illumination_n for_o what_o be_v there_o that_o can_v more_o just_o challenge_v or_o better_o deserve_v both_o can_v pleasure_n there_o be_v none_o but_o what_o flow_v from_o wisdom_n that_o be_v either_o pure_a great_a or_o last_v can_v business_n what_o business_n can_v be_v of_o great_a importance_n than_o what_o secure_v our_o salvation_n our_o eternity_n wisdom_n then_o be_v the_o principal_a thing_n therefore_o get_v understanding_n prov._n 4.7_o for_o without_o this_o the_o most_o desirable_a possession_n and_o pleasure_n of_o life_n be_v but_o cheat_n and_o illusion_n mischief_n and_o snare_n for_o the_o turn_n away_o of_o the_o simple_a shall_v slay_v they_o and_o the_o prosperity_n of_o fool_n shall_v destroy_v they_o prov._n 1.32_o 3._o that_o we_o act_v conformable_a to_o those_o measure_n of_o light_n which_o we_o have_v attain_v the_o more_o spiritual_a we_o grow_v the_o fit_a we_o be_v for_o the_o residence_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o the_o more_o capable_a of_o his_o influence_n the_o more_o we_o subdue_v all_o inordinate_a affection_n the_o
clear_a do_v the_o understanding_n grow_v and_o the_o more_o absolute_a its_o authority_n the_o grace_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v comply_v with_o and_o obey_v while_o it_o render_v we_o more_o like_a god_n render_v we_o more_o dear_a to_o he_o too_o and_o one_o favour_n if_o it_o be_v not_o our_o own_o fault_n qualify_v we_o for_o another_o whoever_o shall_v observe_v the_o scripture_n will_v find_v that_o holiness_n and_o illumination_n advance_v with_o equal_a step_n and_o grow_v up_o by_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o maturity_n that_o as_o we_o pass_v on_o from_o the_o infancy_n to_o the_o manhood_n of_o virtue_n so_o do_v we_o from_o the_o first_o rudiment_n of_o wisdom_n to_o the_o height_n and_o mystery_n of_o it_o but_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n lust_n obscure_v and_o eclipse_n the_o light_n within_o sin_n deprave_v and_o corrupt_v our_o principle_n and_o while_o we_o renounce_v our_o virtue_n we_o quench_v or_o chase_v away_o the_o spirit_n into_o a_o malicious_a soul_n wisdom_n shall_v not_o enter_v nor_o dwell_v in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v subject_a unto_o sin_n for_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o discipline_n will_v flee_v deceit_n and_o remove_v from_o thought_n that_o be_v without_o understanding_n and_o will_v not_o abide_v when_o unrighteousness_n come_v in_o wisd_v 1.4_o 5._o 4._o we_o must_v frequent_o and_o constant_o address_v ourselves_o to_o god_n by_o prayer_n for_o the_o illumination_n of_o his_o grace_n there_o be_v nothing_o that_o we_o do_v not_o receive_v from_o above_o and_o if_o the_o most_o inconsiderable_a thing_n be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n from_o what_o fountain_n but_o from_o he_o can_v we_o expect_v illumination_n the_o rapture_n of_o poet_n the_o wisdom_n of_o lawgiver_n the_o noble_a piece_n of_o philosophy_n and_o indeed_o all_o heroic_a and_o extraordinary_a performance_n be_v by_o the_o pagan_n themselves_o general_o attribute_v to_o a_o divine_a inspiration_n and_o the_o old_a testament_n ascribe_v a_o transcendent_a skill_n even_o in_o art_n and_o trade_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o therefore_o to_o be_v wonder_v at_o if_o illumination_n be_v attribute_v to_o he_o in_o the_o new_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n be_v essential_a part_n of_o sanctity_n and_o therefore_o must_v proceed_v from_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n we_o must_v therefore_o constant_o look_v up_o to_o god_n and_o depend_v upon_o he_o for_o illumination_n we_o must_v earnest_o pray_v in_o the_o word_n of_o st._n paul_n that_o the_o god_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n will_v give_v unto_o we_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n eph._n 1.17_o this_o dependence_n upon_o god_n in_o expectation_n of_o his_o blessing_n on_o our_o search_n after_o knowledge_n put_v the_o mind_n into_o the_o best_a disposition_n and_o frame_n to_o attain_v it_o because_o it_o natural_o free_v and_o disengage_v it_o from_o those_o passion_n prejudices_fw-la and_o distraction_n which_o otherwise_o entangle_v and_o disturb_v it_o and_o render_v it_o uncapable_a of_o raise_v sedate_n and_o coherent_a thought_n but_o what_o be_v more_o than_o this_o there_o be_v repeat_v and_o express_v promise_v make_v it_o so_o that_o it_o can_v never_o fail_v of_o success_n ask_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v you_o seek_v and_o you_o shall_v find_v knock_v and_o it_o shall_v be_v open_v to_o you_o the_o reason_n of_o which_o be_v add_v if_o you_o then_o be_v evil_a know_v how_o to_o give_v good_a gift_n unto_o your_o child_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v your_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n give_v good_a thing_n or_o as_o it_o be_v luk._n 11._o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o mat._n 7.7_o 11._o if_o any_o of_o you_o lack_v wisdom_n let_v he_o ask_v of_o god_n that_o give_v to_o all_o man_n liberal_o and_o upbraid_v not_o and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v he_o jam._n 1.5_o nor_o do_v i_o doubt_v but_o every_o good_a man_n have_v these_o promise_n verify_v to_o he_o there_o be_v sudden_a suggestion_n unexpected_a manifestation_n extraordinary_a elevation_n of_o mind_n which_o be_v never_o to_o be_v account_v for_o but_o by_o a_o divine_a principle_n nor_o do_v this_o doctrine_n of_o spiritual_a illumination_n or_o irradiation_n in_o the_o least_o diminish_v the_o power_n and_o excellence_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n no_o more_o than_o the_o instruction_n of_o the_o gospel_n do_v supersede_n that_o of_o the_o spirit_n for_o we_o must_v not_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n do_v now_o reveal_v any_o new_a truth_n of_o general_a use_n or_o importance_n since_o the_o canon_n of_o scripture_n will_v on_o this_o supposal_n be_v but_o a_o defective_a rule_n of_o faith_n and_o manner_n but_o first_o the_o spirit_n may_v assist_v we_o in_o make_v a_o full_a discovery_n of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n second_o the_o spirit_n may_v help_v we_o to_o form_v clear_a and_o distinct_a notion_n of_o those_o thing_n we_o have_v yet_o but_o a_o imperfect_a and_o general_a knowledge_n of_o and_o to_o fix_v and_o imprint_v they_o in_o more_o last_a as_o well_o as_o more_o legible_a character_n in_o our_o mind_n or_o it_o may_v recall_v to_o our_o remembrance_n such_o thing_n as_o be_v obliterated_a and_o forget_v or_o final_o it_o may_v produce_v in_o we_o a_o more_o earnest_a and_o steady_a application_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n three_o i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o the_o spirit_n may_v not_o vouchsafe_v we_o particular_a impulse_n direction_n and_o intimation_n upon_o extraordinary_a occasion_n and_o sudden_a emergency_n where_o holy_a writ_n afford_v we_o no_o light_n and_o human_a prudence_n be_v at_o a_o loss_n nor_o do_v any_o thing_n that_o i_o attribute_v to_o the_o spirit_n in_o all_o this_o detract_v or_o derogate_v from_o the_o dignity_n or_o the_o efficacy_n of_o the_o scripture_n this_o than_o i_o conceive_v be_v what_o the_o spirit_n do_v in_o the_o work_n of_o illumination_n but_o how_o it_o do_v it_o be_v not_o necessary_a nor_o i_o doubt_v possible_a to_o be_v determine_v nor_o ought_v our_o ignorance_n of_o this_o to_o be_v object_v against_o the_o truth_n of_o divine_a illumination_n we_o be_v sure_o we_o understand_v and_o remember_v and_o exercise_v a_o freedom_n or_o liberty_n of_o will_n in_o our_o choice_n resolution_n and_o action_n but_o the_o manner_n how_o we_o do_v this_o be_v a_o enquiry_n that_o do_v hitherto_o for_o aught_o i_o can_v see_v whole_o surpass_v and_o transcend_v our_o philosophy_n i_o will_v here_o close_v this_o chapter_n with_o a_o prayer_n of_o fulgentius_n lib._n 1._o cap._n 4._o after_o he_o have_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o chapter_n disclaim_v all_o pretence_n to_o the_o fetch_v up_o himself_o a_o master_n doctor_n or_o dictator_n to_o his_o brethren_n he_o break_v out_o into_o these_o devout_a and_o pious_a word_n i_o will_v not_o cease_v to_o pray_v that_o our_o true_a master_n and_o doctor_n christ_n jesus_n either_o by_o the_o oracle_n of_o his_o gospel_n or_o by_o the_o conversation_n of_o my_o brethren_n or_o joint-disciple_n or_o else_o by_o the_o secret_a and_o delightful_a instruction_n of_o divine_a inspiration_n in_o which_o without_o the_o element_n of_o letter_n or_o the_o sound_n of_o speech_n truth_n speak_v with_o so_o much_o the_o sweet_a as_o the_o still_a and_o soft_a voice_n will_v vouchsafe_v to_o teach_v i_o those_o thing_n which_o i_o may_v so_o propose_v and_o so_o assert_v that_o in_o all_o my_o exposition_n and_o assertion_n i_o may_v be_v ever_o find_v conformable_a and_o obedient_a and_o firm_a to_o that_o truth_n which_o can_v neither_o deceive_v nor_o be_v deceive_v for_o it_o be_v truth_n itself_o that_o enlighten_v confirm_v and_o aid_n i_o that_o i_o may_v always_o obey_v and_o assent_v to_o the_o truth_n by_o truth_n i_o desire_v to_o be_v inform_v of_o those_o many_o more_o thing_n which_o i_o be_o ignorant_a of_o from_o who_o i_o have_v receive_v the_o few_o i_o know_v of_o truth_n i_o beg_v through_o prevent_v and_o assist_v grace_n to_o be_v instruct_v in_o what_o ever_o i_o yet_o know_v not_o which_o conduce_v to_o the_o interest_n of_o my_o virtue_n and_o happiness_n to_o be_v preserve_v and_o keep_v steadfast_a in_o those_o truth_n which_o i_o know_v to_o be_v reform_v and_o rectify_v in_o those_o point_n in_o which_o as_o be_v common_a to_o man_n i_o be_o mistake_v to_o be_v confirm_v and_o establish_v in_o those_o truth_n wherein_o i_o waver_v and_o to_o be_v deliver_v from_o those_o opinion_n that_o be_v erroneous_a or_o hurtful_a i_o beg_v last_o that_o truth_n may_v ever_o find_v both_o in_o my_o thought_n and_o speech_n all_o that_o sound_n and_o wholesome_a doctrine_n i_o have_v receive_v from_o its_o gift_n and_o that_o it_o will_v always_o cause_v i_o to_o utter_v those_o thing_n which_o be_v agreeable_a to_o itself_o in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o
dung_n and_o dross_n in_o comparison_n of_o he_o can_v he_o in_o one_o word_n ever_o be_v seduce_v to_o renounce_v and_o hate_v religion_n who_o have_v have_v so_o long_a a_o experience_n of_o the_o beauty_n and_o of_o the_o pleasure_n of_o it_o good_a habit_n when_o they_o be_v grow_v up_o to_o perfection_n and_o maturity_n seem_v to_o i_o as_o natural_a as_o it_o be_v possible_a evil_a one_o shall_v be_v and_o if_o so_o it_o be_v no_o less_o difficult_a to_o extirpate_v the_o one_o than_o the_o other_o and_o i_o think_v i_o have_v the_o scripture_n on_o my_o side_n in_o this_o opinion_n do_v the_o prophet_n jeremy_n demand_n can_v the_o ethiopian_a change_n his_o skin_n or_o the_o leopard_n his_o spot_n then_o may_v you_o that_o be_v accustom_v to_o do_v evil_a learn_v to_o do_v well_o jer._n 13.23_o st._n john_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n do_v affirm_v whosoever_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n do_v not_o commit_v sin_n for_o his_o seed_n remain_v in_o he_o and_o he_o can_v sin_v because_o he_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n 1_o ep._n 3.9_o whosoever_o abide_v in_o he_o sin_v not_o v._o 6._o these_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o assurance_n with_o respect_n of_o the_o time_n to_o come_v as_o to_o personal_n and_o peremptory_a predestination_n to_o life_n and_o glory_n it_o be_v at_o lest_o a_o controvert_v point_n and_o therefore_o unfit_a to_o be_v lay_v as_o the_o foundation_n of_o assurance_n but_o suppose_v it_o be_v grant_v i_o see_v not_o which_o way_n it_o can_v effect_v our_o present_a enquiry_n since_o the_o wise_a among_o those_o who_o stickle_v for_o it_o advise_v all_o to_o govern_v themselves_o by_o the_o general_a promise_n and_o threat_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o look_v upon_o the_o fruit_n of_o righteousness_n as_o the_o only_a solid_a proof_n of_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o if_o they_o be_v under_o the_o dominion_n of_o any_o sin_n not_o to_o presume_v upon_o personal_a election_n but_o to_o look_v upon_o themselves_o as_o in_o a_o state_n of_o damnation_n till_o they_o be_v recover_v out_o of_o it_o by_o repentance_n thus_o far_o all_o side_n agree_v and_o this_o i_o think_v be_v abundant_o enough_o for_o here_o we_o have_v room_n enough_o for_o joy_n and_o peace_n and_o for_o caution_n too_o room_n enough_o for_o confidence_n and_o for_o watchfulness_n too_o the_o romanist_n indeed_o will_v not_o allow_v we_o to_o be_v certain_a of_o salvation_n certitudine_fw-la fidei_fw-la cvi_fw-la non_fw-la potest_fw-la subesse_fw-la falsum_fw-la with_o such_o a_o certainty_n as_o that_o with_o which_o we_o entertain_v a_o article_n of_o faith_n in_o which_o there_o be_v no_o room_n for_o error_n i._n e._n we_o be_v not_o so_o sure_a that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n as_o we_o be_v or_o may_v be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n we_o be_v not_o so_o sure_a that_o we_o have_v a_o title_n to_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n as_o we_o be_v or_o may_v be_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n now_o if_o this_o assertion_n be_v confine_v to_o that_o assurance_n which_o regard_v the_o time_n to_o come_v as_o i_o think_v it_o general_o be_v and_o do_v not_o deny_v assurance_n in_o general_n but_o only_o certain_a degree_n or_o measure_n of_o it_o then_o there_o be_v nothing_o very_o absurd_a or_o intolerable_a in_o it_o for_o a_o less_o assurance_n then_o that_o which_o this_o doctrine_n exclude_v will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o secure_v the_o pleasure_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o the_o perfect_a man._n but_o if_o this_o assertion_n be_v design_v against_o that_o assurance_n which_o regard_v our_o present_a state_n than_o i_o think_v it_o be_v not_o sound_a nor_o agreeable_a either_o to_o reason_n scripture_n or_o experience_n for_o first_o the_o question_n be_v about_o a_o matter_n of_o fact_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o argue_v that_o can_v be_v which_o do_v appear_v manifest_o to_o have_v be_v and_o certain_o they_o who_o rejoice_v in_o christ_n with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n be_v as_o full_o persuade_v that_o they_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n as_o they_o be_v that_o jesus_n be_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a second_o it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o balance_v the_o strength_n and_o degree_n of_o assurance_n another_o to_o balance_v the_o reason_n of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v very_o possible_a that_o assurance_n may_v be_v strong_a where_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o may_v not_o be_v so_o clear_a and_o evident_a as_o where_o the_o assurance_n be_v less_o thus_o for_o example_n the_o evidence_n of_o sense_n seem_v to_o most_o learned_a man_n to_o be_v strong_a than_o that_o of_o faith_n and_o yet_o through_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n a_o man_n may_v embrace_v a_o truth_n that_o depend_v upon_o revelation_n with_o as_o much_o confidence_n and_o certainty_n as_o one_o depend_v upon_o sense_n and_o so_o it_o may_v be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o assurance_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v by_o its_o concurrence_n raise_v our_o assurance_n as_o high_a as_o he_o please_v although_o the_o reason_n on_o which_o it_o be_v build_v shall_v not_o be_v divine_a and_o infallible_a but_o mere_o moral_a and_o subject_n at_o least_o to_o a_o possibility_n of_o error_n but_o three_o why_o shall_v not_o the_o certainty_n i_o have_v concern_v my_o present_a state_n be_v as_o divine_a and_o infallible_a as_o that_o i_o have_v concern_v a_o article_n of_o faith_n if_o the_o premise_n be_v infallible_a why_o shall_v not_o the_o conclusion_n he_o that_o believe_v and_o repent_v be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n be_v a_o divine_a a_o infallible_a proposition_n and_o why_o may_v not_o this_o other_o i_o believe_v and_o repent_v be_v equal_o infallible_a though_o not_o equal_o divine_a what_o faith_n and_o repentance_n be_v be_v reveal_v and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o room_n for_o my_o be_v here_o mistake_v beside_o i_o be_o assist_v and_o guide_v in_o the_o trial_n of_o myself_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n so_o that_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o proposition_n i_o believe_v and_o repent_v depend_v partly_o upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o sense_n and_o i_o may_v be_v as_o sure_a of_o it_o as_o of_o what_o i_o do_v or_o leave_v undo_v partly_o upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o inward_a sensation_n or_o my_o consciousness_n of_o my_o own_o thought_n and_o i_o may_v be_v as_o sure_a of_o it_o as_o i_o can_v be_v of_o what_o i_o love_v or_o hate_n rejoice_v or_o grieve_v for_o and_o last_o it_o depend_v upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o assist_v i_o in_o the_o examination_n of_o myself_o according_a to_o those_o character_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n which_o he_o have_v himself_o reveal_v and_o when_o i_o conclude_v from_o the_o two_o former_a proposition_n that_o i_o be_o in_o a_o state_n of_o grace_n he_o confirm_v and_o ratify_v my_o inference_n and_o now_o let_v any_o one_o tell_v i_o what_o kind_n of_o certainty_n that_o be_v that_o can_v be_v great_a than_o this_o i_o have_v take_v this_o pain_n to_o set_v the_o doctrine_n of_o assurance_n in_o a_o clear_a light_n because_o it_o be_v the_o great_a spring_n of_o the_o perfect_a man_n comfort_n and_o pleasure_n the_o source_n of_o his_o strength_n and_o joy_n and_o this_o put_v i_o in_o mind_n of_o that_o other_o fruit_n of_o perfection_n which_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o chapter_n i_o promise_v to_o insist_v on_o which_o be_v its_o subserviency_n to_o our_o happiness_n in_o this_o life_n that_o happiness_n increase_v in_o proportion_n with_o perfection_n can_v be_v deny_v unless_o we_o will_v at_o the_o same_o time_n deny_v the_o happiness_n of_o a_o man_n to_o exceed_v that_o of_o a_o infant_n or_o the_o happiness_n of_o a_o angel_n that_o of_o man._n now_o this_o truth_n be_v of_o a_o very_a great_a importance_n and_o serve_v single_o instead_o of_o a_o thousand_o motive_n to_o perfection_n i_o will_v consider_v it_o impartial_o and_o as_o close_o as_o i_o can_v happiness_n and_o pleasure_n be_v general_o think_v to_o be_v only_o two_o word_n for_o the_o same_o thing_n nor_o be_v this_o very_a remote_a from_o truth_n for_o let_v but_o pleasure_n be_v solid_a and_o last_a and_o i_o can_v see_v what_o more_o be_v want_v to_o make_v man_n happy_a the_o best_a way_n therefore_o to_o determine_v how_o much_o perfection_n contribute_v to_o our_o happiness_n be_v to_o examine_v how_o much_o it_o contribute_v to_o our_o pleasure_n if_o with_o the_o epicurean_a we_o think_v indolence_n our_o supreme_a happiness_n and_o define_v pleasure_n by_o the_o absence_n of_o pain_n than_o i_o be_o sure_a the_o perfect_a man_n will_v have_v the_o best_a claim_n to_o it_o he_o sure_o be_v free_a from_o the_o mistake_v and_o error_n from_o the_o passion_n and_o folly_n that_o embroil_n human_a life_n he_o create_v
all_o our_o sinful_a or_o vain_a desire_n devote_v ourselves_o to_o the_o service_n of_o jesus_n and_o learn_v to_o expect_v happiness_n from_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o merit_n and_o the_o imitation_n of_o his_o cross_n so_o profound_a be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o institution_n that_o it_o evident_o speak_v god_n the_o author_n of_o it_o and_o proclaim_v the_o too_o common_a neglect_n of_o it_o in_o most_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n a_o in-excusable_a sin_n and_o folly_n 3._o a_o three_o end_n of_o instrumental_a duty_n of_o religion_n be_v the_o raise_n and_o keep_v up_o holy_a and_o devout_a affection_n i_o know_v not_o why_o passion_n be_v so_o common_o undervalue_v and_o disparage_v in_o religion_n unless_o they_o who_o thus_o treat_v it_o mean_v nothing_o by_o it_o but_o a_o short-lived_a and_o superficial_a commotion_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o leave_v no_o print_n or_o relish_v behind_o it_o and_o be_v present_o succeed_v by_o sin_n and_o folly_n holy_a passion_n be_v the_o vigour_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o state_n and_o frame_n of_o the_o mind_n when_o it_o be_v thorough_o move_v and_o affect_v and_o therefore_o to_o form_n to_o one_o self_a religion_n destitute_a of_o passion_n be_v little_o better_a than_o to_o content_v one_o self_n with_o one_o that_o be_v lazy_a lukewarm_a and_o lifeless_a and_o though_o there_o be_v some_o temper_n very_o unapt_a to_o be_v move_v yet_o it_o be_v hard_a to_o imagine_v how_o even_o these_o can_v be_v wrought_v up_o to_o a_o resolution_n or_o that_o resolution_n be_v support_v and_o continue_v without_o their_o be_v affect_v so_o thorough_o as_o to_o feel_v either_o a_o real_a passion_n or_o something_o very_o near_o approach_v one_o it_o be_v a_o excellent_a frame_n of_o spirit_n when_o the_o soul_n be_v easy_o elevate_v and_o transport_v into_o holy_a passion_n and_o i_o find_v that_o all_o those_o virtue_n or_o rather_o act_n of_o virtue_n which_o be_v describe_v to_o the_o life_n and_o which_o be_v by_o all_o judge_v most_o perfect_a and_o lovely_a have_v most_o of_o passion_n in_o they_o how_o warm_a and_o passionate_a be_v the_o love_n of_o david_n for_o his_o god_n what_o flame_n what_o vehemence_n of_o desire_n be_v he_o move_v by_o when_o he_o cry_v out_o psal_n 42.1_o 2._o as_o the_o heart_n pant_v after_o the_o water-brook_n so_o pant_v my_o soul_n after_o thou_o o_o god_n my_o soul_n thirst_v for_o god_n for_o the_o live_a god_n what_o awful_a concussion_n and_o agitation_n of_o spirit_n do_v he_o feel_v when_o he_o thus_o describe_v his_o fear_n my_o flesh_n tremble_v for_o fear_n of_o thou_o and_o i_o be_o afraid_a of_o thy_o judgement_n psal_n 119.120_o what_o affliction_n of_o soul_n what_o tenderness_n of_o heart_n do_v we_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o repentance_n of_o st._n peter_n when_o he_o go_v forth_o and_o weep_v bitter_o of_o mary_n magdalen_n or_o whoever_o that_o woman_n in_o luk._n 7._o be_v when_o she_o wash_v the_o foot_n of_o our_o saviour_n with_o her_o tear_n and_o wipe_v they_o with_o the_o hair_n of_o her_o head_n and_o of_o the_o royal_a psalmist_n when_o he_o water_v his_o couch_n with_o his_o tear_n psal_n 6.6_o nor_o be_v the_o pleasure_n of_o assurance_n less_o sensible_a and_o vehement_a than_o the_o sorrow_n of_o repentance_n when_o the_o first_o christian_n rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o hope_n full_a of_o glory_n shall_v i_o here_o add_v that_o holy_a indignation_n against_o sin_n that_o vehement_a desire_n of_o make_v some_o reparation_n for_o it_o which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n that_o zeal_n and_o fervency_n of_o spirit_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o high_a character_n of_o perfection_n itself_o shall_v i_o call_v these_o passion_n i_o must_v not_o for_o though_o they_o have_v the_o heat_n and_o agitation_n of_o passion_n they_o have_v in_o they_o the_o firmness_n and_o steadiness_n of_o a_o habit._n and_o i_o wish_v with_o all_o my_o heart_n that_o all_o those_o other_o excellent_a affection_n of_o soul_n which_o i_o before_o name_v can_v be_v render_v natural_a and_o habitual_a the_o near_a we_o come_v to_o this_o undoubted_o the_o perfect_a i_o doubt_v mortality_n be_v incapable_a of_o any_o such_o height_n but_o the_o more_o frequent_a as_o well_o as_o the_o more_o vehement_a and_o fervent_a the_o better_a certain_o for_o great_a be_v the_o force_n and_o virtue_n of_o holy_a passion_n the_o flame_n of_o love_n refine_v our_o nature_n and_o purify_v it_o from_o all_o its_o dross_n the_o tear_n of_o a_o godly_a sorrow_n extinguish_v all_o our_o carnal_a and_o worldly_a lust_n and_o the_o agitation_n of_o fear_n preserve_v the_o chastity_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v plain_a then_o that_o our_o religion_n ought_v to_o be_v animate_v by_o holy_a passion_n that_o the_o more_o frequent_a and_o natural_a these_o grow_v the_o more_o perfect_a we_o be_v that_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a frame_n of_o spirit_n when_o we_o be_v most_o apt_a to_o be_v sensible_o and_o thorough_o affect_v by_o divine_a truth_n by_o what_o mean_v we_o may_v attain_v to_o this_o be_v now_o brief_o to_o be_v consider_v it_o be_v certain_a that_o great_a and_o important_a wonderful_a and_o glorious_a truth_n will_v not_o fail_v to_o affect_v we_o and_o that_o thorough_o unless_o lust_n or_o infidelity_n have_v render_v we_o stupid_a and_o impenetrable_a and_o that_o gospel_n truth_n be_v such_o be_v no_o doubt_n at_o all_o let_v the_o conviction_n be_v full_a the_o representation_n lively_a and_o the_o truth_n will_v do_v its_o work_n it_o be_v for_o want_n of_o such_o circumstance_n and_o such_o sensible_a notion_n of_o a_o object_n as_o may_v strike_v the_o imagination_n for_o want_v of_o close_a and_o particular_a application_n when_o divine_a truth_n do_v not_o move_v we_o this_o now_o do_v not_o only_o call_v we_o to_o the_o frequent_a meditation_n of_o the_o most_o affect_v subject_n the_o majesty_n and_o omnipresence_n of_o god_n the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n death_n and_o judgement_n heaven_n and_o hell_n but_o it_o show_v also_o how_o to_o model_n and_o form_n our_o meditation_n that_o they_o prove_v not_o cold_a and_o sluggish_a let_v the_o object_n of_o our_o thought_n be_v describe_v by_o the_o most_o sensible_a image_n or_o resemblance_n let_v it_o be_v clad_v with_o the_o most_o natural_a circumstance_n let_v it_o be_v make_v as_o particular_a as_o it_o can_v by_o fix_v its_o eye_n upon_o we_o and_o point_v its_o motion_n towards_o we_o but_o above_o all_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n let_v the_o proof_n of_o it_o be_v clear_a and_o strong_a prayer_n be_v a_o exercise_n very_o apt_a to_o move_v the_o passion_n the_o mind_n have_v disengage_v itself_o from_o all_o earthly_a and_o bodily_a affection_n be_v prepare_v for_o the_o impression_n of_o truth_n and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o draw_v near_o into_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o this_o shed_v a_o awful_a reverence_n upon_o it_o it_o have_v a_o clear_a calm_a and_o more_o serious_a view_n of_o divine_a thing_n then_o when_o it_o be_v obscure_v and_o disturb_v by_o worldly_a object_n in_o a_o word_n meditation_n be_v in_o this_o exercise_n render_v more_o solemn_a and_o more_o particular_a and_o when_o the_o holy_a fire_n be_v kindle_v in_o the_o soul_n it_o dilate_v and_o diffuse_v itself_o more_o and_o more_o till_o the_o strength_n of_o desire_n the_o vehemence_n of_o holy_a love_n transcend_v the_o weakness_n of_o this_o mortal_a nature_n we_o faint_v under_o the_o passion_n that_o we_o can_v bear_v the_o lord_n supper_n be_v a_o holy_a rite_n wonderful_o adapt_v to_o raise_v excellent_a passion_n here_o christ_n be_v as_o it_o be_v set_v forth_o crucify_a among_o we_o we_o see_v his_o body_n break_v and_o his_o blood_n pour_v forth_o here_o with_o a_o devout_a joy_n we_o receive_v and_o embrace_v he_o by_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o those_o symbol_n of_o his_o body_n and_o blood_n and_o pledge_n of_o his_o love_n the_o soul_n must_v be_v very_o ill_o prepare_v it_o must_v have_v very_o imperfect_a notion_n of_o sin_n and_o damnation_n the_o cross_n of_o christ_n grace_n and_o salvation_n which_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o a_o crow_v of_o holy_a passion_n spring_v up_o in_o it_o at_o this_o sacrament_n hymn_n and_o psalm_n have_v by_o i_o know_v not_o what_o natural_a magic_n a_o peculiar_a force_n and_o operation_n upon_o a_o pious_a mind_n divine_a poetry_n have_v a_o noble_a elevation_n of_o thought_n it_o do_v not_o devise_v and_o counterfeit_v passion_n but_o only_o vent_v those_o which_o it_o feel_v and_o these_o be_v pure_a and_o lovely_a kindle_v from_o above_o therefore_o be_v all_o its_o character_n natural_a its_o description_n lively_a its_o language_n move_v and_o powerful_a and_o all_o be_v
through_o with_o many_o sorrow_n ver_fw-la 17_o 18_o 19_o charge_v they_o that_o be_v rich_a in_o this_o world_n that_o they_o be_v not_o high_a mind_v nor_o trust_v in_o uncertain_a riches_n but_o in_o the_o live_a god_n who_o give_v we_o all_o thing_n rich_o to_o enjoy_v that_o they_o do_v good_a that_o they_o be_v rich_a in_o good_a work_n ready_a to_o distribute_v willing_a to_o communicate_v lay_v up_o in_o store_n for_o themselves_o a_o good_a foundation_n against_o the_o time_n to_o come_v that_o they_o may_v lay_v hold_n on_o eternal_a life_n and_o to_o multiply_v no_o more_o instance_n of_o restraint_n of_o this_o or_o the_o like_a nature_n thus_o we_o ought_v to_o stand_v affect_v towards_o praise_n and_o reputation_n interest_n and_o power_n beauty_n strength_n etc._n etc._n we_o must_v neither_o be_v too_o intent_n upon_o they_o nor_o enjoy_v they_o with_o too_o much_o gust_n and_o satisfaction_n for_o this_o be_v that_o disposition_n which_o appear_v to_o i_o to_o suit_n best_o with_o the_o spirit_n and_o design_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o with_o the_o nature_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v of_o a_o middle_a sort_n be_v equal_o capable_a of_o be_v either_o temptation_n or_o blessing_n instrument_n of_o good_a or_o evil._n 3_o the_o scripture_n regulate_v and_o bound_v our_o natural_a and_o necessary_a appetite_n not_o so_o much_o by_o nice_o define_v the_o exact_a degree_n and_o measure_n within_o which_o nature_n must_v be_v strict_o contain_v as_o by_o exalt_a example_n of_o and_o exhortation_n to_o a_o spiritual_a pure_a and_o heavenly_a disposition_n thus_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n seem_v to_o i_o to_o give_v some_o check_n to_o the_o stream_n of_o natural_a affection_n and_o to_o call_v off_o his_o disciple_n from_o it_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o a_o spiritual_a relation_n mark_v 3.34_o 35._o and_o he_o look_v round_o about_o on_o they_o which_o sit_v about_o he_o and_o say_v behold_v my_o mother_n and_o my_o brethren_n for_o whosoever_o shall_v do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n the_o same_o be_v my_o brother_n and_o my_o sister_n and_o mother_n to_o which_o word_n of_o our_o lord_n i_o may_v join_v those_o of_o st._n paul_n henceforth_o know_v we_o no_o man_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o now_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o 2_o cor._n 5.16_o the_o answer_n of_o our_o lord_n to_o a_o disciple_n who_o will_v have_v defer_v his_o follow_v he_o till_o he_o have_v bury_v his_o father_n matt._n 8._o â—1_n and_o to_o he_o who_o beg_v leave_v to_o go_v and_o bid_v farewell_n first_o to_o his_o relation_n and_o domestic_n luke_n 9.61_o do_v plain_o countenance_v the_o doctrine_n i_o here_o advance_v and_o so_o do_v st._n paul_n 1_o cor._n 7.29_o so_o often_o cite_v by_o i_o not_o that_o our_o saviour_n or_o his_o apostle_n do_v ever_o account_v our_o natural_a affection_n vicious_a and_o impure_a for_o it_o be_v a_o vice_n to_o be_v without_o they_o rom._n 1.31_o not_o that_o they_o go_v about_o to_o diminish_v or_o abate_v much_o less_o to_o cancel_v the_o duty_n flow_v from_o they_o no_o they_o only_o prune_v the_o luxuriancy_n of_o untaught_a nature_n and_o correct_v the_o fondness_n and_o infirmity_n of_o animal_n inclination_n our_o natural_a affection_n may_v entangle_v and_o enslave_v we_o as_o well_o as_o unlawful_a and_o irregular_a one_o if_o we_o lay_v no_o restraint_n upon_o they_o religion_n indeed_o make_v they_o the_o seed_n of_o virtue_n but_o without_o it_o they_o easy_o betray_v we_o into_o sin_n and_o folly_n for_o this_o reason_n i_o doubt_v not_o lest_z under_o pretence_n of_o satisfy_v our_o most_o natural_a and_o importunate_a appetite_n we_o shall_v be_v ensnare_v into_o the_o love_n of_o this_o world_n and_o entangle_v in_o the_o care_n of_o it_o our_o saviour_n forbid_v we_o to_o take_v think_v for_o to_o morrow_n even_o for_o the_o necessary_n of_o to_o morrow_n what_o we_o shall_v eat_v and_o what_o we_o shall_v drink_v and_o where-withal_a we_o shall_v be_v clothe_v matt._n 6._o these_o be_v the_o restraint_n lay_v upon_o the_o body_n in_o scripture_n which_o if_o any_o man_n observe_v he_o will_v soon_o discern_v himself_o as_o far_o purify_v and_o free_v from_o original_a corruption_n as_o human_a nature_n in_o this_o life_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o that_o he_o may_v §_o 2_o he_o must_v fortify_v and_o invigorate_v the_o mind_n and_o this_o must_v be_v do_v two_o way_n first_o by_o possess_v it_o with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n second_o by_o withdraw_v it_o often_o from_o the_o body_n as_o to_o the_o former_a branch_n of_o this_o rule_n the_o necessity_n of_o it_o be_v apparent_a since_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n be_v such_o as_o have_v before_o be_v describe_v we_o stand_v in_o need_n not_o only_o of_o revelation_n to_o enlighten_v we_o but_o also_o of_o grace_n to_o strengthen_v we_o of_o the_o former_a to_o excite_v we_o to_o exert_v all_o the_o force_n and_o power_n we_o have_v of_o the_o latter_a to_o enable_v we_o to_o do_v that_o which_o our_o natural_a force_n never_o can_v effect_v it_o can_v be_v here_o expect_v that_o i_o shall_v treat_v of_o the_o operation_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o way_n of_o obtain_v it_o grieve_v and_o quench_v it_o this_o will_v demand_v a_o peculiar_a treatise_n i_o will_v here_o only_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o repair_v in_o some_o degree_n at_o least_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o fall_n to_o rectify_v nature_n to_o improve_v our_o faculty_n and_o to_o imprint_v in_o we_o the_o divine_a image_n that_o meditation_n and_o prayer_n and_o a_o careful_a conformity_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n obtain_v and_o increase_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o negligence_n and_o presumptuous_a wickedness_n grieve_v and_o extinguish_v it_o as_o to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o gospel_n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o say_v much_o here_o i_o have_v consider_v this_o matter_n in_o the_o chapter_n of_o illumination_n and_o will_v only_o observe_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v such_o as_o if_o they_o be_v thorough_o imbibe_v do_v effectual_o raise_v we_o above_o a_o state_n of_o nature_n and_o set_v we_o free_a from_o the_o power_n and_o prevalence_n of_o our_o original_a corruption_n be_v we_o but_o once_o persuade_v that_o we_o be_v stranger_n and_o pilgrim_n upon_o earth_n that_o all_o carnal_a gratification_n do_v war_n against_o the_o soul_n that_o our_o soul_n be_v proper_o ourselves_o and_o that_o our_o first_o care_n be_v to_o be_v for_o they_o that_o god_n be_v himself_o our_o sovereign_n good_a and_o the_o fountain_n of_o all_o inferior_a good_a that_o our_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n consist_v in_o the_o love_n and_o service_n of_o he_o that_o we_o have_v a_o mighty_a mediator_n who_o once_o die_v for_o we_o and_o ever_o live_v to_o make_v intercession_n for_o we_o that_o a_o kingdom_n incorruptible_a and_o undefiled_a and_o that_o fade_v not_o away_o be_v reserve_v in_o heaven_n for_o all_o meek_a faithful_a and_o holy_a soul_n be_v we_o i_o say_v but_o once_o thorough_o persuade_v of_o these_o truth_n with_o what_o vigour_n will_v they_o impregnate_n our_o mind_n how_o clear_a will_v be_v the_o conviction_n of_o conscience_n how_o uncontrollable_a the_o authority_n of_o reason_n how_o strong_a the_o instinct_n and_o propension_n of_o the_o mind_n towards_o righteousness_n and_o virtue_n these_o will_v alienate_v the_o mind_n from_o the_o world_n and_o the_o body_n and_o turn_v the_o bend_v of_o it_o another_o way_n these_o will_v inspire_v it_o with_o other_o desire_n and_o hope_n and_o make_v it_o form_n different_a project_n from_o what_o it_o have_v before_o old_a thing_n be_v do_v away_o and_o all_o thing_n be_v become_v new_a the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o second_o particular_a rule_n be_v that_o we_o must_v accustom_v ourselves_o to_o retire_v frequent_o from_o the_o commerce_n and_o conversation_n of_o the_o body_n whether_o the_o eat_v the_o forbid_a fruit_n do_v open_a to_o the_o mind_n new_a scene_n of_o sensuality_n which_o it_o think_v not_o of_o and_o so_o call_v it_o down_o from_o the_o serenity_n and_o height_n of_o a_o more_o pure_a and_o contemplative_a life_n to_o participate_v the_o turbulent_a pleasure_n of_o sense_n immerse_v it_o as_o it_o be_v by_o this_o mean_v deep_a into_o the_o body_n i_o pretend_v not_o to_o judge_v but_o it_o be_v certain_a a_o too_o too_o intimate_a conjunction_n of_o the_o mind_n with_o the_o body_n and_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o it_o do_v very_o much_o debase_v it_o it_o be_v our_o great_a unhappiness_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v always_o in_o the_o sense_n and_o the_o sense_n be_v always_o upon_o the_o world_n we_o converse_v with_o the_o world_n we_o talk_v of_o the_o world_n we_o think_v of_o the_o
serve_v he_o who_o angel_n serve_v to_o who_o all_o thing_n in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n do_v bow_n and_o obey_v it_o be_v the_o high_a prerogative_n we_o can_v derive_v from_o grace_n or_o nature_n to_o be_v capable_a of_o serve_v he_o his_o divine_a perfection_n transcend_v the_o conception_n of_o inferior_a creature_n and_o can_v be_v know_v contemplate_v and_o adore_v by_o none_o but_o such_o as_o be_v make_v but_o a_o little_a low_o than_o the_o angel_n such_o as_o be_v endue_v not_o only_o with_o the_o light_n of_o reason_n but_o with_o a_o far_o bright_a that_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n this_o be_v indeed_o our_o utmost_a perfection_n and_o must_v be_v our_o utmost_a ambition_n this_o alone_a make_v we_o considerable_a who_o be_v in_o all_o other_o respect_n but_o mean_v and_o contemptible_a for_o we_o draw_v but_o a_o precarious_a and_o dependent_a breath_n and_o the_o world_n we_o inhabit_v be_v a_o dark_a and_o tempestuous_a one_o full_a of_o folly_n and_o misery_n but_o even_o this_o will_v serve_v for_o a_o further_a confirmation_n of_o what_o i_o further_o contend_v for_o for_o be_v indigent_a and_o needy_a stand_v at_o a_o infinite_a distance_n from_o selfsufficiency_n it_o be_v plain_a that_o what_o we_o can_v find_v within_o we_o we_o must_v seek_v without_o we_o some_o all-sufficient_a good_a we_o must_v find_v out_o something_o we_o must_v rest_v in_o and_o repose_v ourselves_o upon_o and_o this_o will_v be_v our_o god_n this_o we_o shall_v serve_v and_o adore_v and_o what_o shall_v this_o be_v shall_v we_o serve_v evil_a spirit_n these_o be_v our_o avow_a and_o inveterate_a enemy_n and_o go_v about_o like_o a_o roar_a lion_n seek_v who_o they_o may_v devour_v shall_v we_o serve_v the_o good_a this_o be_v to_o dishonour_v our_o nature_n to_o serve_v our_o fellow-creature_n and_o fellow-servant_n beside_o that_o such_o will_v never_o sacrilegious_o usurp_v their_o maker_n honour_n nor_o admit_v that_o service_n which_o be_v due_a to_o he_o alone_o shall_v we_o then_o serve_v man_n alas_o the_o breath_n of_o great_a one_o be_v in_o their_o nostril_n their_o life_n be_v but_o a_o vapour_n toss_v to_o and_o fro_o with_o restless_a noise_n and_o motion_n and_o than_o it_o vanish_v they_o die_v and_o all_o their_o thought_n and_o project_n perish_v what_o then_o shall_v we_o at_o length_n be_v reduce_v to_o serve_v our_o lust_n this_o be_v worse_a than_o pagan_a idolatry_n stock_n and_o stone_n indeed_o can_v not_o help_v or_o reward_v their_o votary_n but_o our_o lust_n like_o wild_a and_o savage_a tyrant_n destroy_v where_o they_o rule_v and_o oppress_v and_o overwhelm_v we_o with_o ruin_n and_o mischief_n while_o we_o servy_o court_v and_o flatter_v they_o i_o have_v not_o do_v yet_o i_o have_v prove_v it_o indeed_o to_o be_v our_o duty_n and_o honour_n to_o serve_v god_n but_o these_o with_o some_o be_v cold_a and_o lifeless_a topic_n i_o will_v now_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v our_o interest_n and_o happiness_n and_o this_o too_o lay_v aside_o at_o present_a as_o i_o promise_v the_o consideration_n of_o a_o future_a reward_n and_o the_o joy_n spring_v from_o it_o to_o make_v good_a this_o assertion_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a brief_o to_o examine_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o design_n or_o end_v and_o second_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o service_n if_o we_o inquire_v after_o the_o end_n of_o it_o it_o be_v evident_o our_o own_o advantage_n and_o happiness_n the_o lust_n or_o the_o humour_n the_o want_v and_o necessity_n of_o man_n may_v put_v he_o upon_o invade_v our_o liberty_n or_o purchase_v and_o contract_n with_o we_o for_o our_o servitude_n but_o god_n be_v all-sufficient_a to_o himself_o and_o have_v no_o need_n of_o our_o service_n when_o he_o will_v be_v glorify_v by_o we_o it_o be_v that_o we_o may_v enjoy_v his_o protection_n and_o bounty_n when_o he_o oblige_v we_o to_o obey_v his_o command_n it_o be_v in_o order_n to_o perfect_v our_o nature_n and_o purify_v and_o qualify_v we_o for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o spiritual_a and_o divine_a pleasure_n when_o he_o enjoin_v we_o prayer_n it_o be_v because_o it_o do_v exalt_v and_o enlarge_v our_o mind_n and_o fit_v we_o for_o the_o blessing_n it_o obtain_v when_o he_o prescribe_v we_o self-resignation_n it_o be_v because_o he_o will_v choose_v for_o we_o and_o manage_v our_o affair_n better_a than_o we_o can_v our_o self_n let_v we_o in_o the_o next_o place_n consider_v the_o nature_n of_o this_o service_n to_o serve_v god_n what_o be_v it_o but_o to_o love_v what_o be_v infinite_o lovely_a to_o follow_v the_o conduct_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o to_o repose_v our_o confidence_n in_o that_o be_v who_o goodness_n be_v as_o boundless_a as_o his_o power_n to_o serve_v god_n it_o be_v to_o pursue_v the_o great_a end_n of_o our_o creation_n to_o act_v consonant_n to_o the_o dignity_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o to_o govern_v our_o life_n by_o the_o dictate_v of_o a_o enlighten_v reason_n how_o wise_o have_v our_o church_n in_o one_o of_o she_o collect_v express_v her_o notion_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n service_n who_o service_n be_v perfect_a freedom_n the_o devil_n maintain_v his_o dominion_n over_o we_o by_o infatuate_a our_o understanding_n by_o enfeeble_v and_o fetter_n our_o will_n by_o delude_v and_o corrupt_v our_o affection_n but_o on_o the_o quite_o contrary_a the_o more_o clear_a and_o impartial_a our_o understanding_n the_o more_o free_a and_o absolute_a our_o will_n the_o more_o unbiased_a and_o rational_a our_o affection_n the_o fit_a be_v we_o to_o worship_n god_n nay_o indeed_o we_o can_v worship_v he_o at_o all_o as_o we_o ought_v to_o do_v unless_o our_o soul_n be_v thus_o qualify_v therefore_o be_v the_o service_n of_o god_n call_v a_o rational_a service_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d sincere_a milk_n to_o signify_v to_o we_o that_o in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n all_o be_v real_a and_o solid_a good_n such_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o our_o nature_n the_o might_n and_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o protection_n and_o conduct_v of_o providence_n and_o all_o the_o great_a and_o precious_a promise_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_n but_o in_o the_o service_n of_o sin_n all_o be_v cheat_n and_o imposture_n and_o under_o a_o pompous_a show_n of_o good_a the_o present_n be_v vanity_n and_o the_o future_a repentance_n but_o such_o a_o repentance_n as_o do_v not_o relieve_v but_o increase_v the_o sinner_n misery_n this_o be_v enough_o to_o be_v say_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n service_n and_o by_o the_o concession_n i_o make_v my_o objector_n about_o the_o beginning_n of_o this_o head_n i_o be_o restrain_v from_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o more_o glorious_a effect_n of_o it_o yet_o some_o there_o be_v very_o great_a and_o good_a one_o that_o fall_v not_o within_o the_o compass_n of_o the_o objection_n which_o i_o will_v but_o just_a mention_n the_o first_o be_v rest._n while_o religion_n regulate_v the_o disorder_n and_o reduce_v the_o extravagance_n of_o our_o affection_n it_o do_v in_o effect_n lay_v a_o storm_n and_o compose_v a_o mutiny_n in_o our_o bosom_n whilst_o it_o enlighten_v our_o mind_n and_o teach_v we_o the_o true_a value_n that_o be_v at_o least_o the_o comparative_a worthlesness_n of_o worldly_a thing_n it_o extinguish_v the_o trouble_n which_o present_a disappointment_n and_o loss_n and_o prevent_v those_o fear_n which_o the_o prospect_n of_o future_a change_n and_o revolution_n be_v wont_a to_o create_v in_o we_o a_o mind_n that_o be_v true_o enlighten_v and_o have_v no_o ambition_n but_o for_o immortality_n and_o glory_n who_o humility_n with_o reference_n to_o these_o temporal_a thing_n be_v build_v upon_o a_o true_a notion_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o this_o soul_n have_v enter_v already_o into_o its_o rest._n this_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n matth._n 11.28_o 29._o come_v unto_o i_o all_o you_o that_o labour_n and_o be_v heavy_a lade_v that_o be_v all_o you_o that_o be_v oppress_v by_o the_o weight_n of_o your_o own_o care_n and_o fear_n that_o be_v fatigue_v and_o toil_v in_o the_o design_n and_o project_n of_o avarice_n and_o ambition_n and_o i_o will_v give_v you_o rest_n take_v my_o yoke_n upon_o you_o and_o learn_v of_o i_o for_o i_o be_o meek_a and_o lowly_a in_o heart_n and_o you_o shall_v find_v rest_n unto_o your_o soul_n i_o need_v not_o i_o think_v here_o show_v that_o the_o more_o we_o fear_v and_o serve_v god_n the_o more_o we_o love_v and_o admire_v he_o the_o more_o clear_a be_v the_o understanding_n and_o the_o more_o pure_a the_o heart_n for_o the_o more_o we_o converse_v with_o solid_a and_o eternal_a good_a the_o more_o insignificant_a and_o trifle_a will_n temporal_a
thing_n appear_v to_o we_o and_o the_o more_o the_o mind_n rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n the_o often_o be_v rapt_v up_o into_o heaven_n and_o as_o it_o be_v transfigure_v into_o a_o more_o glorious_a be_v by_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o ardour_n of_o divine_a love_n the_o more_o flat_a and_o insipid_a be_v all_o earthly_a and_o carnal_a satisfaction_n to_o it_o another_o effect_n that_o attend_v our_o shake_n off_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n and_o our_o devote_v ourselves_o to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n be_v our_o be_v purify_v from_o gild_n the_o stain_n of_o the_o past_a life_n be_v wash_v off_o by_o repentance_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n and_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n contract_v no_o new_a one_o by_o wilful_a and_o presumptuous_a sin_n now_o therefore_o he_o can_v enter_v into_o himself_o and_o commune_v with_o his_o own_o heart_n without_o any_o vneasiness_n he_o can_v reflect_v upon_o his_o action_n and_o review_v each_o day_n when_o it_o be_v past_a without_o inward_a regret_n or_o shame_n to_o break_v off_o a_o vicious_a course_n to_o vanquish_v both_o terror_n and_o allurement_n when_o they_o persuade_v to_o that_o which_o be_v mean_a and_o base_a to_o be_v master_n of_o one_o self_n and_o entertain_v no_o affection_n but_o what_o be_v wise_a and_o regular_a and_o such_o as_o one_o have_v reason_n to_o wish_v shall_v daily_o increase_v and_o grow_v strong_a these_o be_v thing_n so_o far_o from_o merit_v reproach_n and_o reproof_n from_o one_o own_o mind_n that_o they_o be_v sufficient_a to_o support_v it_o against_o all_o reproach_n from_o without_o such_o be_v the_o beauty_n such_o the_o pleasure_n of_o a_o well_o establish_v habit_n of_o righteousness_n that_o it_o do_v more_o than_o compensate_a the_o difficulty_n to_o which_o either_o the_o attainment_n or_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o can_v expose_v a_o man._n last_o he_o that_o be_v free_a from_o gild_n be_v free_a from_o fear_n too_o and_o indeed_o this_o be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o get_v rid_v of_o all_o our_o fear_n not_o by_o deny_v or_o renounce_v god_n with_o atheist_n but_o by_o do_v the_o thing_n that_o please_v he_o he_o that_o be_v true_o religious_a be_v the_o only_a man_n who_o upon_o rational_a ground_n be_v raise_v above_o melancholy_a and_o fear_n for_o what_o shall_v he_o fear_v god_n be_v his_o glory_n his_o boast_n his_o joy_n his_o strength_n and_o if_o god_n be_v for_o he_o who_o can_v be_v against_o he_o neither_o thing_n present_a nor_o to_o come_v neither_o life_n nor_o death_n can_v separate_v he_o from_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n there_o be_v nothing_o within_o the_o bound_n of_o time_n or_o eternity_n that_o he_o need_v fear_n man_n can_v hurt_v he_o he_o be_v encompass_v with_o the_o favour_n and_o love_a kindness_n of_o god_n as_o with_o a_o shield_n but_o if_o god_n permit_v he_o to_o suffer_v for_o righteousness_n sake_n happy_a be_v he_o this_o do_v but_o increase_v his_o present_a joy_n and_o future_a glory_n but_o what_o be_v most_o considerable_a death_n itself_o can_v hurt_v he_o devil_n can_v hurt_v he_o the_o sting_n of_o death_n be_v sin_n and_o the_o strength_n of_o sin_n be_v the_o law_n but_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n who_o give_v we_o the_o victory_n through_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n for_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n who_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o after_o the_o spirit_n these_o consideration_n prove_v the_o present_a condition_n of_o a_o servant_n of_o god_n happy_a happy_a in_o comparison_n of_o the_o loose_a and_o wicked_a but_o in_o comparison_n with_o what_o he_o shall_v be_v hereafter_o he_o be_v infinite_o short_a of_o the_o joy_n and_o glory_n of_o his_o end_n in_o this_o respect_n indeed_o he_o be_v yet_o in_o a_o state_n of_o trial_n and_o trouble_v of_o discipline_n and_o probation_n in_o this_o respect_n his_o perfection_n and_o happiness_n do_v but_o just_a peep_n up_o above_o the_o ground_n the_o fullness_n and_o maturity_n of_o both_o he_o can_v enjoy_v till_o he_o come_v to_o heaven_n and_o this_o be_v §_o 4._o the_o last_o fruit_n of_o christian_a liberty_n that_o heaven_n will_v consist_v of_o all_o the_o blessing_n of_o all_o the_o enjoyment_n that_o human_a nature_n when_o raise_v to_o a_o equality_n with_o angel_n be_v capable_a of_o that_o beauty_n and_o glory_n joy_n and_o pleasure_n will_v as_o it_o be_v like_o a_o fruitful_a and_o ripe_a harvest_n here_o grow_v up_o there_o in_o all_o the_o utmost_a plenty_n and_o perfection_n that_o omnipotence_n itself_o will_v ever_o produce_v be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v controvert_v heaven_n be_v the_o masterpiece_n of_o god_n the_o accomplishment_n and_o consummation_n of_o all_o his_o wonderful_a design_n the_o last_o and_o most_o endear_n expression_n of_o boundless_a love_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o scripture_n describe_v it_o by_o the_o most_o take_v and_o the_o most_o admire_a thing_n upon_o earth_n and_o yet_o we_o can_v but_o think_v that_o this_o image_n though_o draw_v by_o a_o divine_a pencil_n must_v fall_v infinite_o short_a of_o it_o for_o what_o temporal_a thing_n can_v yield_v colour_n or_o metaphor_n strong_a and_o rich_a enough_o to_o paint_v heaven_n to_o the_o life_n one_o thing_n there_o be_v indeed_o which_o seem_v to_o point_v we_o to_o a_o just_a and_o adequate_a notion_n of_o a_o heaven_n it_o seem_v to_o excite_v we_o to_o strive_v and_o attempt_v for_o conception_n of_o what_o we_o can_v grasp_v we_o can_v comprehend_v and_o the_o labour_a mind_n the_o more_o it_o discover_v conclude_v still_o the_o more_o behind_o and_o that_o be_v the_o beatific_a vision_n this_o be_v that_o which_o as_o divine_n general_o teach_v do_v constitute_v heaven_n and_o scripture_n seem_v to_o teach_v so_o too_o i_o confess_v i_o have_v often_o doubt_v whether_o our_o see_v god_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v do_v necessary_o imply_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v the_o immediate_a object_n of_o our_o fruition_n or_o only_o that_o we_o shall_v there_o as_o it_o be_v drink_v at_o the_o fountain_n head_n and_o be_v near_o and_o dear_a to_o he_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n shall_v ever_o flourish_v in_o his_o favour_n and_o enjoy_v all_o good_a heap_v up_o press_v down_o and_o run_v over_o i_o think_v the_o scripture_n may_v be_v easy_o reconcile_v to_o this_o sense_n and_o the_o incomprehensible_a glory_n of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n incline_v i_o to_o believe_v it_o the_o most_o reasonable_a and_o most_o easy_o accountable_a enjoyment_n and_o especial_o where_o a_o intelligent_a be_v be_v the_o object_n of_o it_o seem_v to_o imply_v something_o of_o proportion_n something_o of_o equality_n something_o of_o familiarity_n but_o ah_o what_o proportion_n think_v i_o can_v there_o ever_o be_v between_o finite_a and_o infinite_a what_o equality_n between_o a_o poor_a creature_n and_o his_o incomprehensible_a creator_n what_o eye_n shall_v give_v on_o the_o splendour_n of_o his_o essential_a beauty_n when_o the_o very_a light_n he_o dwell_v in_o be_v inaccessible_a and_o even_o the_o brightness_n he_o veil_v himself_o in_o be_v too_o dazzle_v even_o for_o cherub_n and_o seraph_n for_o aught_o i_o know_v to_o behold_v ah_o what_o familiarity_n can_v there_o be_v between_o this_o eternal_a and_o inconceiveable_a majesty_n and_o being_n which_o he_o have_v form_v out_o of_o nothing_o and_o when_o on_o this_o occasion_n i_o reflect_v on_o the_o effect_n which_o the_o presence_n of_o angel_n have_v upon_o the_o prophet_n and_o see_v human_a nature_n in_o man_n sink_v and_o die_v away_o because_o unable_a to_o sustain_v the_o glory_n of_o one_o of_o their_o fellow-creature_n i_o think_v myself_o in_o a_o manner_n oblige_v to_o yield_v and_o stand_v out_o no_o long_o against_o a_o notion_n which_o though_o differ_v from_o what_o be_v general_o receive_v seem_v to_o have_v more_o reason_n on_o its_o side_n and_o to_o be_v more_o intelligible_a but_o when_o i_o call_v to_o mind_n that_o god_n do_v not_o disdain_n even_o while_o we_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o probation_n and_o humility_n of_o infirmity_n and_o mortality_n to_o account_v we_o not_o only_o his_o servant_n and_o his_o people_n but_o his_o friend_n and_o his_o child_n i_o begin_v to_o question_v the_o former_a opinion_n and_o when_o i_o have_v survey_v the_o nature_n of_o fruition_n and_o the_o various_a way_n of_o it_o a_o little_a more_o attentive_o i_o whole_o quit_v it_o for_o i_o observe_v that_o the_o enjoyment_n be_v most_o transport_v where_o admiration_n mingle_v with_o our_o passion_n where_o the_o belove_a object_n stand_v not_o upon_o the_o same_o level_n with_o we_o but_o condescend_v to_o meet_v a_o virtuous_a and_o aspire_a and_o ambitious_a affection_n thus_o the_o happy_a favourite_n enjoy_v