external_o profitable_a to_o we_o but_o main_o as_o please_v to_o god_n and_o for_o his_o honour_n as_o conduce_v to_o the_o advance_n of_o 〈◊〉_d with_o he_o or_o conformity_n to_o he_o it_o be_v most_o divine_a the_o use_n teach_v we_o to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o conscience_n as_o spiritual_a and_o as_o that_o which_o take_v up_o thing_n better_a and_o be_v a_o far_o better_a discerner_n and_o judge_n of_o thing_n than_o we_o ouâ—_n self_n be_v 3_o obseruâ—_v that_o the_o attest_v of_o conscience_n be_v a_o most_o grave_a important_a and_o solemn_a thing_n â—_o business_n of_o high_a concernment_n and_o such_o as_o ought_v to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d great_a weight_n with_o other_o it_o be_v so_o mide_a use_n of_o here_o yea_o â—t's_n testimony_n be_v some_o way_n to_o have_v weight_n with_o we_o and_o to_o be_v respect_v as_o the_o testimony_n of_o christ_n himself_o and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n therefore_o it_o be_v here_o join_v with_o they_o in_o its_o testimony_n and_o it_o can_v be_v otherways_o god_n be_v as_o be_v say_v before_o the_o immediate_a master_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v so_o divine_a a_o thing_n none_o can_v attest_v conscience_n but_o they_o must_v needs_o attest_v god_n with_o it_o the_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o to_o be_v more_o warry_a in_o attest_v conscience_n in_o a_o light_n and_o trivial_a way_n it_o be_v in_o scripture_n language_n a_o atte_a christ_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o when_o ever_o we_o there_fw-mi not_o appeal_v to_o they_o as_o witness_n we_o will_v beware_v of_o appeal_n to_o or_o of_o atte_a conscience_n or_o take_v it_o to_o be_v a_o witness_n 4_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n among_o conscience_n for_o these_o word_n my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n import_v two_o thing_n 1._o his_o attest_v his_o conscience_n not_o simple_o but_o as_o it_o be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o spirit_n 2_o it_o not_o only_o import_v sanctification_n in_o the_o habit_n of_o it_o but_o in_o its_o exercise_n also_o for_o he_o know_v that_o a_o man_n attest_v of_o his_o mere_a natural_a conscience_n be_v not_o of_o such_o value_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v easy_o delude_v and_o go_v wrong_n but_o say_v he_o i_o attest_v my_o conscience_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o as_o act_v by_o he_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o a_o renew_a and_o unrenewed_a conscience_n and_o a_o difference_n betwixt_o a_o pure_a conscience_n and_o a_o defile_a one_o to_o the_o pure_a say_v the_o apostle_n tit._n 1._o 15._o all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v paul_n appeal_n his_o conscience_n be_v as_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o such_o a_o conscience_n there_o be_v also_o a_o evil_a and_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o these_o word_n late_o speak_v of_o 1_o pet._n 3._o 21_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n clear_a there_o be_v likewise_o a_o cauterised_a conscience_n and_o a_o tender_a conscience_n yea_o there_o be_v some_o difference_n of_o conscience_n among_o believer_n themselves_o some_o conscience_n be_v weak_a some_o strong_a some_o be_v sleepy_a some_o wake_v some_o be_v secure_a some_o in_o the_o lively_a exercise_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o act_v by_o the_o spirit_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o conscience_n mean_v here_o use_v this_o difference_n will_v be_v well_o observe_v for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o every_o conscience_n that_o will_v bear_v a_o man_n throughâ—_n it_o must_v be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sanctify_v and_o in_o that_o particular_a act_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n 5_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v no_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n that_o can_v be_v satisfy_v but_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o conscience_n sanctify_v and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n therefore_o he_o think_v it_o not_o enough_o to_o say_v my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v but_o he_o add_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o in_o that_o passage_n 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o it_o be_v not_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n simple_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n of_o a_o wake_n tender_a spiritual_a and_o well_o enlighten_v conscience_n that_o satisfy_v use_v therefore_o ere_o man_n lay_v much_o weight_n on_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n they_o will_v first_o put_v it_o â—o_o proof_n and_o see_v that_o it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n if_o a_o man_n be_v not_o of_o some_o credit_n his_o testimony_n will_v not_o be_v of_o much_o weight_n in_o any_o matter_n it_o be_v even_o so_o with_o conscience_n as_o to_o its_o testimony_n 6_o observe_v that_o sometime_o and_o in_o some_o case_n believer_n may_v very_o warrantable_o attest_v their_o conscience_n and_o appeal_v to_o its_o testimony_n some_o believer_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o some_o in_o the_o new_a have_v do_v it_o though_o as_o we_o say_v before_o the_o attest_v of_o conscience_n be_v a_o very_a grave_n and_o solemn_a thing_n and_o will_v not_o be_v use_v at_o all_o time_n and_o in_o all_o case_n yet_o at_o some_o time_n and_o in_o some_o case_n it_o may_v be_v warrantable_o use_v when_o right_o go_v about_o i_o shall_v name_v three_o or_o four_o consideration_n or_o case_n from_o the_o text_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o 1._o conscience_n may_v be_v attest_v when_o the_o matter_n that_o we_o assert_v require_v such_o a_o solemn_a attest_v of_o it_o and_o these_o thing_n concur_v here_o to_o clear_v that_o the_o matter_n wherein_o he_o atte_v his_o conscience_n be_v such_o for_o 1._o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o concern_v god_n glory_n not_o a_o little_a that_o his_o servant_n and_o messenger_n be_v not_o walk_v according_o to_o the_o flesh_n 2._o it_o tend_v to_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o for_o if_o he_o have_v not_o remove_v the_o prejudice_n that_o the_o jew_n have_v at_o he_o it_o may_v have_v mar_v their_o receive_v the_o truth_n from_o his_o mouth_n 3._o it_o tend_v to_o his_o own_o vindication_n in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o tend_v to_o the_o former_a two_o end_n and_o he_o will_v not_o suffer_v any_o blot_n to_o lie_v here_o 4._o that_o which_o he_o assert_v be_v a_o thing_n not_o obvious_a and_o can_v not_o well_o be_v otherways_o make_v out_o and_o in_o this_o so_o great_a and_o grave_a a_o matter_n he_o spare_v not_o to_o attest_v god_n and_o his_o own_o conscience_n 2._o consider_v the_o manner_n of_o his_o proceed_n it_o be_v speak_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n grave_o and_o sober_o i_o speak_v the_o truth_n in_o christ_n and_o lie_v not_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o do_v not_o rash_o and_o abrupt_o break_v out_o in_o it_o as_o many_o do_v 3_o consider_v that_o he_o be_v most_o clear_a in_o the_o thing_n ere_o he_o attest_v his_o conscience_n he_o be_v sure_a that_o it_o be_v no_o lie_n and_o that_o he_o have_v no_o mixture_n of_o untruth_n in_o it_o yea_o he_o be_v so_o clear_a that_o he_o there_fw-mi swear_v it_o and_o take_v christ_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o witness_v in_o it_o when_o man_n there_fw-mi not_o attest_v god_n in_o a_o matter_n they_o shall_v not_o attest_v their_o own_o conscience_n in_o it_o except_o they_o think_v that_o god_n will_v say_v one_o thing_n and_o their_o conscience_n another_o which_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n man_n will_v say_v many_o thing_n light_o suppose_v they_o to_o be_v true_a that_o they_o will_v be_v loath_a to_o attest_v their_o conscience_n in_o till_o they_o be_v very_o clear_a and_o sure_a that_o they_o be_v true_a 4_o add_v this_o consideration_n that_o it_o be_v do_v when_o he_o be_v in_o a_o holy_a spiritual_a and_o lively_a frame_n my_o conscience_n say_v he_o bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o attest_v conscience_n in_o a_o carnal_a frame_n be_v as_o unsuitable_a as_o to_o rush_v in_o rash_o and_o unmannerly_a before_o a_o grave_a judge_n to_o crave_v a_o sentence_n from_o he_o if_o our_o frame_n be_v not_o right_a conscience_n will_v never_o speak_v out_o a_o approve_v testimony_n to_o we_o in_o that_o particular_a which_o we_o assert_v and_o attest_v it_o in_o for_o though_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n it_o be_v true_a and_o no_o lie_n yet_o as_o to_o our_o circumstantiated_a attest_v of_o it_o in_o so_o ill_a a_o frame_n it_o will_v not_o approve_v we_o 7_o in_o the_o general_a observe_v that_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n when_o warrantable_o make_v use_v of_o be_v a_o thing_n very_o useful_a refresh_a and_o comfortable_a to_o a_o believer_n
natural_a man_n performance_n be_v never_o so_o specious_a and_o splendid_a yet_o before_o god_n they_o be_v but_o dead_a like_o a_o carcase_n that_o want_v life_n so_o that_o though_o the_o great_a heap_n of_o prayer_n and_o of_o other_o duty_n shall_v be_v find_v with_o a_o mere_o natural_a man_n they_o be_v but_o like_a to_o these_o apple_n which_o as_o its_o story_a grow_v at_o or_o about_o the_o lake_n of_o sodom_n which_o appear_v beautiful_a to_o the_o eye_n but_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o be_v touch_v with_o the_o hand_n they_o present_o fall_v into_o ash_n so_o the_o very_o best_a of_o natural_a man_n work_n how_o shine_v soever_o be_v but_o dead_a work_n before_o god_n therefore_o by_o the_o way_n you_o will_v know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o dead_a work_n and_o live_a work_n and_o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o present_v fair_a &_o be_v pleasant_a to_o look_v upon_o which_o yet_o defile_v the_o conscience_n ah_o how_o many_o man_n and_o woman_n be_v there_o even_o live_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n who_o be_v in_o as_o great_a danger_n from_o and_o by_o that_o which_o seâ—ms_v at_o first_o blush_n to_o be_v somewhat_o as_o by_o that_o which_o be_v reâ—ly_o and_o obvious_o nothing_o all_o such_o work_n be_v but_o empty_a show_n counterfeit_v and_o very_a cheat_n they_o have_v no_o soul_n 〈◊〉_d lâ—fe_n in_o they_o be_v 〈◊〉_d destitute_a of_o any_o 〈◊〉_d principle_n or_o end_v however_o the_o world_n of_o proâ—_n of_o religion_n do_v to_o their_o own_o ruin_n place_v all_o their_o religion_n in_o they_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o influence_a effect_n of_o these_o dead_a work_n on_o the_o conscience_n we_o find_v it_o here_o to_o be_v that_o they_o pollute_v and_o defile_v it_o as_o a_o clear_a spring_n be_v mud_v and_o defile_v by_o the_o soul_n foot_n of_o beast_n go_v through_o it_o even_o so_o be_v this_o dâ—vine_a thing_n the_o conscience_n defile_v by_o sinful_a 〈◊〉_d in_o it_o which_o make_v it_o to_o become_v as_o it_o be_v a_o cage_n for_o every_o unclean_a and_o hateful_a bird_n or_o rather_o as_o a_o hold_n of_o every_o â—oul_a spirit_n these_o lust_n as_o so_o many_o â—oul_a spirit_n swarm_v in_o it_o pollute_v and_o defile_v it_o whereby_o it_o become_v quite_o another_o thing_n whence_o we_o may_v draw_v these_o two_o observation_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v that_o dead_a work_n or_o sin_n continue_v in_o do_v pollute_v and_o defile_v a_o manâ—_n conscience_n they_o make_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v a_o clean_a and_o 〈◊〉_d conscience_n to_o become_v pollute_v and_o filthy_a so_o that_o yeâ—_n ever_o see_v a_o face_n more_o full_a of_o foul_a spot_n more_o deform_v by_o they_o than_o the_o conscience_n be_v pollute_v by_o these_o dead_a work_n defiâ—ing_v sin_n therefore_o be_v this_o word_n to_o purge_v the_o conscience_n use_v there_o which_o be_v render_v to_o clean_n ephes._n 5_o 26._o that_o he_o may_v sanctify_v and_o cleanse_v his_o church_n and_o as_o simpolluâ—es_v the_o man_n in_o all_o his_o power_n and_o faculty_n so_o proportionable_o it_o pollut_v he_o in_o his_o conscience_n which_o be_v deep_o pollute_v before_o it_o be_v purge_v and_o cleanse_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v a_o threefold_a pollution_n that_o follow_v 〈◊〉_d in_o the_o conscience_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n state_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d before_o god_n it_o makâ—s_v he_o legal_o unclean_a as_o we_o use_v to_o say_v of_o a_o murderer_n or_o a_o thief_n or_o any_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d when_o find_v guilty_a by_o a_o assize_n that_o such_o a_o person_n be_v file_v so_o a_o man_n by_o commit_v of_o sin_n be_v 〈◊〉_d guilty_a obnoxious_a to_o punishment_n jyable_a to_o wrath_n even_o the_o eternal_a wrath_n of_o god_n because_o of_o it_o this_o be_v a_o legal_a pollution_n or_o defilement_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n present_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n for_o though_o he_o be_v in_o a_o justify_v and_o clean_a state_n and_o have_v it_o may_v be_v win_v at_o clearness_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o god_n and_o to_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n in_o his_o conscience_n so_o that_o his_o peace_n have_v run_v as_o a_o clear_a smooth_a and_o still_a river_n or_o stream_n the_o let_v in_o of_o sin_n be_v like_a to_o the_o drive_v of_o a_o herd_n of_o cattle_n through_o a_o clear_a run_a stream_n whereby_o it_o be_v mud_v and_o trouble_v so_o that_o in_o stead_n of_o peace_n there_o come_v in_o disquiet_v challenge_n and_o in_o stead_n of_o clearness_n much_o confusion_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o sad_a instance_n of_o several_a of_o god_n saint_n as_o particular_o in_o david_n after_o his_o fall_n who_o therefore_o psal._n 51._o prey_n to_o be_v washen_n from_o this_o filthiness_n both_o from_o the_o guilt_n and_o from_o the_o pollution_n of_o sin_n and_o for_o peace_n that_o god_n will_v restore_v to_o he_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n 3._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o sinful_a propension_n and_o inclination_n to_o more_o sin_n which_o follow_v upon_o every_o sin_n so_o that_o by_o frequent_a fall_n into_o sin_n the_o very_a nature_n as_o it_o be_v of_o conscience_n be_v alter_v that_o of_o a_o loath_a of_o sin_n it_o become_v a_o lover_n of_o it_o and_o lick_v it_o up_o as_o a_o dog_n do_v his_o vomit_n and_o with_o the_o sow_n that_o be_v washen_v return_v to_o wallow_v in_o the_o mire_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 2_o pet._n 2._o ult_n when_o a_o person_n be_v seem_o washen_v and_o return_n to_o the_o same_o sin_n that_o he_o be_v give_v to_o before_o his_o conscience_n become_v so_o filthy_a that_o it_o can_v digest_v the_o filthy_a and_o most_o loathsome_a sin_n it_o can_v swallow_v they_o down_o and_o glut_v they_o over_o to_o speak_v so_o and_o never_o challenge_v nor_o quarrel_n for_o they_o in_o this_o sense_n the_o apostle_n say_v tit._n 1._o 15._o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a but_o to_o these_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a there_o be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defiâ—ed_v the_o man_n that_o follow_v a_o course_n of_o sin_n his_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v not_o only_o in_o respect_n of_o contract_a guilt_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o want_n of_o peace_n and_o comfort_n but_o also_o in_o respect_n of_o utter_a indisposition_n for_o duty_n and_o of_o a_o sinful_a inclination_n to_o more_o sin_n so_o that_o it_o become_v harden_v and_o cauterise_v there_o be_v such_o a_o contagion_n in_o sin_n that_o it_o defile_v and_o pollute_v the_o conscience_n all_o these_o way_n that_o whereas_o it_o be_v before_o pure_a it_o become_v now_o like_o a_o person_n that_o have_v the_o botch_n and_o many_o boil_n and_o putrify_a sore_n run_v in_o he_o only_o we_o will_v distinguish_v here_o betwixt_o this_o pollution_n of_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v total_a in_o a_o unrenewed_a man_n and_o as_o it_o be_v partial_a in_o a_o believer_n a_o believer_n may_v be_v defile_v in_o conscience_n when_o he_o be_v offend_v and_o stumble_v so_o as_o to_o be_v tempt_v by_o the_o example_n of_o other_o to_o do_v some_o thing_n wherein_o he_o be_v not_o clear_a as_o some_o be_v 1_o cor._n 8._o verse_n 7_o and_o 10._o his_o conscience_n be_v thereby_o mud_v jumble_a and_o trouble_v and_o his_o peace_n mar_v yet_o he_o have_v not_o a_o total_a and_o universal_a defilement_n of_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o the_o effect_n of_o that_o uncleanness_n pollution_n and_o defilement_n follow_v not_o total_o and_o universal_o oh_n he_o i_o shall_v only_o say_v for_o use_v of_o this_o 1._o o_o that_o you_o know_v what_o a_o abominable_a thing_n sin_n be_v and_o how_o dreadful_o dangerous_a it_o be_v thereby_o to_o defile_v and_o pollute_v the_o conscience_n which_o be_v the_o most_o noble_a thing_n in_o you_o sin_n will_v sure_o be_v more_o abhor_a and_o flee_v from_o it_o be_v real_o a_o wonder_n that_o man_n shall_v love_v dead_a work_n so_o well_o when_o there_o be_v no_o botch_n nor_o plague_n so_o infectious_a and_o contagious_a so_o hurtful_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o body_n as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n 2_o this_o we_o may_v also_o see_v that_o it_o be_v no_o marvel_n that_o man_n who_o be_v give_v to_o sin_n be_v hard_a to_o be_v waken_v and_o reclaim_v for_o continuance_n in_o sin_n make_v the_o conscience_n full_a of_o hole_n as_o it_o be_v that_o all_o slip_n and_o fall_v through_o it_o or_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v it_o make_v the_o conscience_n to_o become_v cauterise_v fenseless_a and_o feelingless_a as_o the_o flesh_n be_v that_o a_o chirurgeon_n design_n to_o consume_v away_o so_o i_o say_v continuance_n in_o sin_n deaden_n and_o
conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o and_o if_o at_o any_o time_n the_o conscience_n of_o the_o christian_a be_v defile_v and_o wound_v by_o new_a contract_a pollution_n and_o guilt_n and_o challenge_n begin_v thence_o to_o arise_v and_o to_o disturb_v the_o peace_n and_o sweet_a repose_n of_o the_o soul_n there_o will_v be_v on_o all_o such_o occasion_n fresh_a believe_a application_n make_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o thereby_o the_o heart_n may_v be_v sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n purge_v from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o endeavour_n will_v be_v renew_v in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n to_o walk_v more_o tender_o without_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n towards_o which_o these_o sermon_n abound_v with_o variety_n of_o choice_n and_o excellent_a direction_n and_o help_n three_o and_o more_o particular_o we_o will_v study_v to_o have_v our_o conscience_n well_o and_o thorough_o inform_v by_o intimate_fw-la acquaintance_n with_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o all_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o believe_v and_o do_v so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o case_n to_o discharge_v its_o office_n and_o duty_n aright_o whether_o in_o dictate_v or_o in_o testify_v or_o in_o judge_v a_o ill_a inform_v conscience_n especial_o where_o there_o be_v any_o zeal_n or_o forwardness_n strong_o push_v and_o surious_o drive_v man_n to_o many_o dangerous_a distract_a and_o destructive_a practice_n have_v not_o this_o drive_a man_n to_o kill_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n as_o himself_o foretell_v and_o in_o do_v so_o to_o think_v that_o they_o do_v god_n service_n do_v not_o this_o hurry_n on_o paul_n before_o his_o conversion_n to_o persecute_v caller_n on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o to_o make_v havoc_n of_o the_o church_n by_o draw_v and_o drag_v the_o disciple_n both_o man_n and_o woman_n bind_v to_o prison_n and_o by_o cruel_a persecute_v of_o they_o even_o to_o strange_a city_n compel_v they_o to_o blaspheme_v so_o exceed_o mad_a be_v he_o as_o himself_o confess_v against_o they_o o_o what_o terrible_a and_o tragical_a thing_n have_v this_o set_a man_n on_o to_o do_v and_o what_o mâ—d_a work_n have_v it_o make_v in_o some_o place_n of_o the_o world_n beside_o many_o lesser_a impertinency_n extravagancy_n and_o disturbance_n in_o particular_a christian_a society_n four_o we_o will_v endeavour_v to_o have_v the_o conscience_n deep_o impress_v with_o due_a and_o deeâ—_n uâ—neration_n awe_n and_o dread_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n the_o supreme_a lord_n of_o and_o great_a lawgiver_n to_o the_o conscience_n who_o law_n and_o command_n be_v only_o proper_o direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o obligatory_a thereof_o because_o the_o conscience_n and_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v proper_o subject_a only_o to_o god_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o moreover_o because_o man_n can_v immediate_o judge_v the_o conscience_n nor_o know_v they_o the_o secret_a motion_n thereof_o and_o final_o because_o he_o can_v only_o inflict_v spiritual_a punishment_n on_o the_o sin_v conscience_n all_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o man_n in_o what_o ever_o capacity_n be_v only_o obligatory_a of_o the_o conscience_n mediate_o indirect_o and_o consequential_o viz._n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v consistent_a compliant_a and_o agreeable_a with_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o the_o absolute_o supreme_a lawgiver_n or_o not_o repugnant_a thereunto_o for_o certain_o he_o have_v not_o give_v a_o dispensation_n to_o any_o power_n on_o earth_n civil_a or_o ecclesiastic_a to_o countermand_v his_o command_n or_o to_o enjoin_v obedience_n â—o_o command_v contrary_a to_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o his_o own_o who_o command_n be_v immediate_o and_o inviolable_o bind_v of_o the_o conscience_n of_o superior_n and_o magistrate_n though_o the_o great_a monarch_n on_o earth_n as_o well_o as_o of_o inferior_n and_o subject_n all_o without_o exception_n be_v inferior_n and_o subject_n to_o he_o yet_o such_o law_n of_o man_n as_o do_v either_o press_v or_o declare_v the_o command_n and_o law_n of_o god_n and_o make_v for_o the_o conservation_n and_o observation_n thereof_o oblige_v in_o conscience_n because_o such_o law_n as_o they_o be_v such_o participate_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o force_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v direct_o and_o immediate_o command_v subjection_n to_o the_o superior_a power_n therefore_o even_o in_o reference_n to_o theâ—â—njust_a law_n and_o such_o as_o be_v repugnant_a to_o or_o 〈◊〉_d with_o the_o divine_a law_n subject_n be_v oblige_v in_o 〈◊〉_d not_o to_o reâ—use_v obedience_n to_o they_o out_o of_o any_o contempt_n of_o lawful_a authority_n let_v â—e_n to_o discaâ—m_v anâ—_n renounce_v the_o same_o as_o some_o poor_a seduce_v and_o delude_v person_n do_v in_o these_o day_n â—ther_o ouâ—_n of_o ignorance_n or_o humour_n or_o misguideâ—_n zeal_n to_o the_o great_a reproach_n of_o religion_n not_o to_o admit_v 〈◊〉_d any_o thing_n that_o mâ—_n have_v in_o it_o the_o 〈◊〉_d appearance_n of_o offence_n and_o scandal_n that_o way_n because_o the_o contempt_n oâ—_n lawful_a authority_n and_o the_o â—andal_n of_o other_o be_v in_o themselves_o sin_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o still_o as_o no_o â—eer_n humane_a law_n do_v direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o as_o i_o say_v bind_v the_o conscience_n so_o neither_o have_v god_n give_v a_o power_n to_o any_o of_o the_o superior_a power_n on_o earth_n to_o enjoy_v obedience_n to_o command_n that_o be_v cross_a to_o his_o own_o injunction_n which_o all_o be_v oblige_v indispensable_o to_o obey_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o strange_a but_o even_o stupendous_a for_o any_o christian_n especial_o such_o as_o pretend_v to_o be_v protestant_n confident_o to_o assert_v and_o bolâ—â—o_o publish_v to_o the_o world_n as_o mr._n hobbs_n do_v in_o his_o leviathan_n a_o book_n design_v by_o he_o as_o i_o have_v be_v inform_v to_o compliment_n cromwell_n against_o the_o writer_n own_o conscience_n such_o as_o it_o be_v p._n 168._o that_o no_o private_a man_n be_v judge_v of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n in_o a_o common_a wealth_n under_o civil_a law_n and_o that_o the_o meaâ—ure_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a action_n be_v the_o civil_a law_n of_o action_n civilv_v good_a why_o not_o but_o of_o action_n simple_o good_a and_o evil_n as_o his_o assertion_n carry_v whâ—_n what_o reason_n or_o shadow_n of_o reason_n god_n never_o have_v give_v noâ—_n assign_v such_o a_o rule_n we_o may_v thus_o throw_v away_o ouâ—_n bibles_n as_o the_o rule_n of_o good_a and_o eull_a arion_n and_o all_o betake_v ourselves_o to_o the_o civil_a law_n as_o the_o only_a rule_n and_o the_o legis_fw-la lâ—tor_fw-la the_o alone_a judge_n since_o he_o may_v as_o well_o divest_v a_o man_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o unman_n he_o as_o deprive_v he_o of_o a_o private_a judgement_n of_o discretion_n or_o of_o a_o private_a discretive_a judgement_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o own_o action_n the_o soâ—er_a exercise_n whereof_o be_v no_o assume_v to_o himself_o in_o â—he_n least_o the_o capaciâ—e_n of_o a_o public_a judge_n and_o it_o at_o any_o time_n in_o any_o thing_n relaâ—ing_v to_o â—is_n 〈◊〉_d act_n this_o judgement_n of_o private_a discretion_n fall_v to_o thwart_v the_o law_n or_o public_a judgement_n he_o advenâ—es_v on_o that_o cum_fw-la pericâ—lo_fw-la or_o on_o his_o peâ—l_n but_o it_o can_v in_o reason_n utter_o rob_v he_o of_o it_o since_o as_o be_v say_v he_o can_v as_o soon_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o man_n or_o a_o rational_a creature_n as_o to_o have_v that_o quite_o deny_v he_o or_o take_v from_o he_o &_o to_o what_o end_n or_o purpose_n shall_v he_o be_v privilege_v with_o this_o above_o brute_n iâ—_n the_o exercise_n of_o â—t_a shall_v be_v for_o ever_o suspend_v in_o the_o member_n of_o kingdom_n and_o commonwealth_n as_o almoâ—_n all_o man_n in_o the_o world_n be_v what_o sound_a and_o orthodox_n divine_a or_o sound_v christian_a lawyer_n ever_o teach_v such_o doctrine_n the_o learned_a doctor_n ames_n tellâ—_n we_o in_o the_o 4._o co_z olary_o and_o very_o last_o word_n of_o his_o first_o book_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n that_o interpretatio_fw-la scripturae_fw-la vel_fw-la judicium_fw-la â—scernere_fw-la voluntatem_fw-la dei_fw-la pertinet_fw-la ad_fw-la quemlibet_fw-la in_o foro_fw-la conscâ—tiae_fw-la pro_fw-la 〈◊〉_d and_o page_n 169._o of_o the_o forecited_n book_n the_o same_o hobbs_n say_v that_o he_o who_o be_v subject_a to_o no_o civil_a law_n sin_v in_o â—ll_o that_o â—e_n do_v against_o his_o conscience_n yet_o â—t_a be_v not_o so_o with_o he_o who_o live_v in_o a_o common_a
wealth_n because_o the_o law_n be_v the_o public_a conscience_n which_o â—eems_v to_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o if_o noâ—_n point_v blank_a contradictory_n unto_o what_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o rom._n 14._o v._n 5_o let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n or_o conscience_n to_o wit_n of_o the_o warrantablenesse_n of_o what_o he_o do_v and_o to_o what_o he_o assert_n v_o 23._o whatsoever_o be_v not_o do_v in_o faith_n or_o from_o this_o full_a persuasion_n of_o its_o warrantableness_n be_v sin_n he_o do_v not_o sure_o write_v this_o to_o christian_n â—n_n outopia_n or_o in_o the_o fancied_a new_a world_n in_o the_o moon_n â—ut_v to_o those_o who_o be_v realy_a present_a memoer_n of_o the_o roman_a commonwealth_n or_o subject_n of_o that_o impire_n neither_o can_v it_o with_o any_o show_n of_o reason_n be_v suppose_v especial_o by_o he_o who_o in_o the_o strain_n of_o his_o book_n as_o to_o this_o matter_n make_v very_o little_a or_o rather_o no_o difference_n at_o all_o betwixt_o a_o heathen_a and_o christian_a magistrate_n for_o whether_o the_o magistrate_n be_v pagan_a mahometan_n jewish_a christian_n popish_a or_o pâ—otestant_n heretical_a or_o orthodox_n seem_v to_o â—e_v all_o onâ—_n to_o he_o and_o his_o follower_n in_o this_o debate_n that_o if_o the_o roman_a emperor_n have_v be_v christian_a he_o will_v have_v write_v otherways_o or_o that_o his_o become_v such_o will_v enervat_fw-la yea_o quite_o evacuat_a the_o strength_n and_o obligation_n of_o what_o he_o writ_n for_o â—e_n deliver_v it_o as_o a_o eternal_a and_o un-alterable_a verity_n rule_v who_o will_v and_o be_v the_o civil_a law_n what_o they_o may_v be_v and_o while_o in_o the_o 13._o chapter_n of_o that_o same_o epistle_n he_o tell_v christian_n v_o 5._o that_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n he_o seem_v very_o clear_o to_o distinguish_v betwixt_o the_o law_n and_o command_n of_o the_o civil_a power_n which_o mr._n hobbs_n call_v the_o public_a conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n of_o private_a christian_a subject_n and_o to_o presâ—e_v upon_o they_o subjection_n to_o the_o high_a power_n for_o their_o own_o conscience_n sake_n and_o so_o to_o leave_v to_o they_o some_o exercise_n and_o judgement_n of_o that_o their_o conscience_n concern_v the_o matter_n of_o their_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n otherways_o the_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n can_v not_o well_o be_v say_v to_o be_v for_o conscience_n sake_n or_o out_o of_o conscience_n for_o he_o raight_o short_o have_v say_v obey_v the_o dictate_v of_o the_o public_a conscience_n aâ—_n the_o law_n of_o the_o superior_a power_n there_o be_v no_o place_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o the_o conscience_n of_o private_a subject_n in_o the_o matter_n there_o be_v one_o divine_a such_o as_o he_o be_v who_o in_o his_o ecclesiastic_a polity_n more_o late_o deliver_v the_o same_o doctrine_n wherein_o he_o not_o only_o plain_o hobbize_v but_o also_o palpable_o play_v the_o plagiâ—y_n borrow_v not_o to_o say_v steal_v much_o of_o what_o he_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n through_o his_o book_n from_o mr_n hobbs_n though_o in_o some_o few_o thing_n he_o oppoâ—eth_v he_o and_o deliver_v his_o sentiment_n in_o a_o fine_a dress_n of_o language_n it_o may_v be_v that_o none_o may_v think_v that_o he_o be_v behold_v to_o the_o other_o for_o that_o which_o he_o will_v surprise_v the_o world_n with_o as_o his_o own_o new_a and_o profound_o witty_a invention_n vain_o as_o it_o be_v cry_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d let_v they_o for_o i_o share_n betwixt_o they_o this_o glory_v in_o their_o own_o shame_n that_o shall_v not_o be_v roll_v away_o he_o say_v that_o in_o matter_n of_o religion_n and_o divine_a worship_n subject_n be_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o authority_n and_o the_o public_a conscience_n and_o that_o in_o these_o matter_n private_a man_n have_v not_o power_n over_o their_o own_o action_n nor_o be_v to_o be_v direct_v by_o their_o own_o judgement_n but_o by_o the_o command_n à nd_v determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n only_o with_o these_o sorry_a restriction_n if_o the_o thing_n command_v do_v not_o either_o countenance_n vice_n or_o disgrace_v the_o deity_n or_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o absolute_o and_o essential_o evil_a who_o nature_n no_o case_n can_v alter_v no_o circumstance_n can_v extenuat_fw-la and_o no_o end_n can_v sanctify_v mr._n hobbs_n have_v only_o this_o limitation_n if_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o against_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n in_o effect_n both_o come_v near_o to_o the_o same_o if_o not_o to_o the_o very_a same_o amount_v and_o by_o both_o a_o obligation_n be_v plead_v to_o lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o private_a christian_a subject_n to_o give_v up_o themselves_o to_o the_o conduct_n and_o regulation_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o commonwealth_n as_o to_o many_o at_o least_o of_o the_o positive_a command_n of_o god_n do_v contrary_a to_o which_o will_v not_o fall_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o these_o very_a narrow_a limitation_n which_o either_o suppose_v without_o any_o warrant_n or_o proof_n that_o the_o public_a conscience_n be_v always_o infallible_a as_o to_o these_o and_o it_o be_v worthy_a notice_v what_o the_o learned_a monsieur_fw-fr claude_n have_v to_o this_o purpose_n in_o his_o deâ—ence_n of_o the_o reformation_n where_o he_o say_v in_o effect_n a_o absolute_a obedience_n and_o entire_a resign_v of_o one_o self_n to_o the_o conduct_n of_o â—nother_n in_o these_o matter_n that_o regard_v the_o faith_n and_o the_o conscience_n be_v a_o duty_n that_o we_o can_v lawful_o tender_a to_o none_o but_o to_o god_n who_o be_v the_o first_o truth_n the_o first_o principle_n of_o all_o justice_n to_o which_o none_o can_v pretend_v without_o usurp_v the_o just_a right_n of_o god_n as_o be_v also_o what_o say_v amesius_n page_n 6._o of_o his_o case_n that_o the_o conscience_n be_v immediate_o subject_a to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o will_n and_o can_v subject_v itself_o to_o any_o creature_n without_o idolatry_n or_o it_o be_v the_o short_a cut_n and_o compendious_a way_n to_o debauch_v man_n conscience_n and_o to_o drive_v all_o conscience_n out_o of_o the_o world_n be_v obvious_o liable_a to_o these_o follow_v beside_o other_o great_a and_o gross_a absurdity_n 1._o that_o private_a christian_a subject_n be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o trouble_v themselves_o or_o to_o be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o search_v the_o scripture_n in_o order_n to_o the_o information_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o bring_v themselves_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o their_o mind_n or_o conscience_n which_o they_o be_v express_o command_v to_o do_v john_n 5._o 39_o and_o rom._n 14._o 5._o of_o the_o warrantableness_n of_o what_o they_o do_v or_o be_v enjoin_v to_o do_v in_o religion_n and_o in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n if_o it_o be_v not_o against_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n which_o may_v be_v easy_o discern_v for_o say_v mr._n hobbs_n it_o be_v bear_v with_o every_o man_n and_o engrave_v on_o every_o man_n heart_n he_o be_v in_o all_o such_o thing_n to_o acquiesce_v without_o debate_n or_o demure_a in_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n and_o if_o he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n inform_v the_o more_o he_o do_v to_o he_o but_o put_v his_o own_o conscience_n the_o more_o upon_o the_o rack_n and_o to_o the_o torture_n if_o he_o must_v notwithstanding_o the_o clear_a information_n and_o best_a ground_a persuasion_n of_o his_o own_o judgement_n and_o conscience_n stand_v to_o and_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o resolve_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n as_o he_o must_v do_v according_a to_o this_o doctrine_n if_o he_o sin_v not_o as_o have_v not_o hitherto_o be_v doubt_v by_o any_o man_n of_o conscience_n in_o counteracting_a his_o own_o light_n and_o well-informed_n conscience_n at_o leaâ—_n he_o can_v but_o be_v more_o disquert_v that_o he_o be_v according_a to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n at_o so_o much_o pain_n in_o the_o â—utit_fw-la of_o seek_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n so_o well_o inform_v which_o god_n never_o make_v a_o just_a ground_n of_o disquiet_n to_o the_o mind_n of_o his_o people_n and_o his_o acquiescence_n in_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n must_v be_v as_o to_o many_o or_o most_o if_o not_o all_o divine_a positives_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n for_o say_v mr._n hobbs_n page_n 249._o they_o to_o who_o god_n have_v not_o speak_v immediate_o be_v to_o receive_v command_n from_o the_o sovereign_n and_o consequent_o in_o every_o commonwealth_n they_o who_o have_v no_o supernatural_a revelation_n to_o the_o contrary_a aught_o to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o their_o own_o sovereign_n in_o the_o external_a act_n and_o
profession_n of_o religion_n which_o draw_v dreadful_o deep_a as_o wilâ—â—ther_o appear_v from_o some_o of_o his_o instance_n if_o say_v he_o page_v 271._o it_o be_v ask_v what_o if_o we_o be_v command_v by_o our_o lawful_a prince_n to_o say_v with_o our_o tongue_n we_o believe_v not_o in_o christ_n he_o may_v as_o well_o add_v we_o believe_v not_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o person_n as_o christ_n must_v we_o obey_v such_o a_o command_n profession_n with_o the_o tongue_n say_v he_o be_v no_o more_o than_o any_o other_o gesture_n whereby_o we_o signify_v our_o obedience_n and_o wherein_o a_o christian_a hold_v firm_o in_o his_o heart_n the_o faith_n of_o christ_n have_v the_o same_o liberty_n that_o elisha_n allow_v to_o naaman_n the_o syrian_a a_o great_a and_o gross_a mistake_n the_o prophet_n allow_v no_o such_o thing_n but_o without_o give_v any_o particular_a answer_n to_o his_o demand_n since_o by_o what_o mr._n hobbs_n confess_v he_o can_v not_o but_o know_v that_o what_o he_o desire_v if_o indeed_o he_o desire_v it_o some_o learned_a man_n assert_v that_o the_o word_n contain_v a_o reflection_n upon_o a_o past_a unlawful_a practice_n and_o a_o beg_a forgiveness_n of_o it_o and_o not_o a_o desire_n of_o a_o permission_n of_o any_o such_o practice_n for_o the_o future_a be_v a_o sin_n and_o unlawful_a to_o be_v do_v only_o bid_v he_o go_v in_o peace_n wish_v he_o well_o and_o god_n blessing_n to_o he_o though_o not_o as_o to_o that_o particular_a â—ere_z say_v he_o naaman_n believe_v in_o his_o heart_n but_o by_o bow_v before_o the_o idol_n rimmon_n he_o deny_v the_o true_a god_n in_o effect_n as_o if_o he_o have_v do_v it_o with_o his_o lip_n how_o dare_v he_o then_o be_v so_o bold_a as_o to_o affirm_v that_o the_o prophet_n allow_v and_o approve_v of_o his_o practice_n what_o then_o shall_v we_o say_v to_o that_o of_o our_o saviour_n whoever_o deny_v i_o before_o man_n he_o will_v i_o deny_v before_o my_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n to_o this_o say_v he_o we_o may_v say_v that_o whatsoever_o a_o subject_a as_o naaman_n be_v be_v compel_v to_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o sovereign_n and_o do_v it_o not_o according_a to_o his_o own_o mind_n but_o in_o order_n to_o the_o law_n of_o his_o country_n that_o action_n be_v not_o he_o but_o his_o sovereign_n nor_o be_v it_o be_v that_o in_o this_o case_n deny_v christ_n but_o his_o governor_n and_o the_o law_n of_o his_o country_n o_o what_o a_o wide_a door_n be_v open_v here_o for_o grofâ—est_a distimulation_n and_o jugllng_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o most_o palpable_a inconsistancy_n betwixt_o the_o heart_n of_o 〈◊〉_d and_o his_o action_n the_o one_o manifest_o contradict_v and_o â—elying_v the_o other_o which_o ought_v especial_o in_o such_o case_n fâ—thfully_o to_o correspond_v and_o exact_o to_o agree_v what_o security_n i_o pray_v can_v man_n have_v upon_o earth_n one_o from_o another_o in_o their_o oath_n covenant_n act_n and_o coâ—acts_n in_o their_o mutual_a bâ—rgainings_n and_o deal_n if_o such_o a_o curse_a latitude_n be_v allow_v they_o to_o say_v promise_n and_o sweat_v one_o thing_n and_o resolve_v another_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o shaâ—_n that_o be_v allow_v in_o matter_n wherein_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n be_v so_o much_o and_o so_o near_o concern_v which_o be_v so_o abominable_a in_o the_o concern_v of_o man_n all_o which_o comparative_o be_v but_o trifle_n may_v not_o all_o christian_a martyr_n of_o old_a and_o protestant_n one_o of_o late_a by_o such_o obedience_n to_o their_o respective_a lawful_a sovereign_n in_o the_o several_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n have_v escape_v &_o deliver_v themselves_o from_o be_v burn_v alive_a &_o from_o other_o bloody_a violent_a and_o cruel_a death_n and_o exquisite_a torment_n and_o shall_v they_o not_o according_a to_o this_o detestable_a doctrine_n be_v look_v at_o as_o a_o company_n of_o silly_a fool_n who_o needlesse_o throw_v away_o their_o life_n which_o they_o may_v thus_o have_v very_o easy_o preserve_v â—or_a none_o of_o they_o we_o know_v of_o be_v ever_o by_o their_o popish_a lawful_a sovereign_n enjoin_v to_o say_v with_o their_o tongue_n that_o they_o believe_v not_o in_o christ_n which_o yet_o say_v he_o they_o may_v and_o shall_v have_v do_v keep_v their_o mind_n to_o themselves_o and_o to_o god_n and_o much_o more_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o be_v command_v further_n page_n 239_o 240_o 241._o he_o refer_v to_o the_o decision_n of_o the_o sovereign_n all_o sort_n of_o doctrine_n in_o effect_n and_o more_o particular_o and_o express_o whether_o the_o subject_n shall_v profess_v that_o life_n eternal_a and_o happiness_n shall_v be_v on_o the_o earth_n only_o whether_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v a_o live_a creature_n independent_a on_o the_o body_n or_o do_v subsist_v separat_o from_o the_o body_n whether_o any_o mere_a man_n be_v immortal_a otherways_o then_o by_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o last_o day_n whether_o wicked_a man_n shall_v be_v torment_v eternal_o so_o as_o not_o to_o be_v destroy_v to_o die_v and_o be_v annihitate_v at_o length_n to_o all_o which_o himself_o seem_v to_o be_v 〈◊〉_d as_o his_o own_o opinion_n o_o wicked_a and_o wretched_a o_o atheistical_a detestable_a and_o damnable_a opinion_n whether_o i_o say_v the_o subject_n shall_v profess_v these_o thing_n or_o not_o he_o refer_v to_o the_o decision_n of_o the_o sovereign_n by_o which_o we_o may_v very_o easy_o judge_v in_o how_o many_o and_o in_o how_o very_o momentuous_a thing_n in_o christian_a religion_n he_o 〈◊〉_d subject_n as_o to_o their_o outward_a profession_n and_o carriage_n to_o â—stand_v to_o and_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o decision_n and_o determination_n of_o the_o lawful_a sovereign_n in_o a_o kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n or_o of_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o law_n of_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o to_o deny_v all_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d subject_n and_o private_a person_n in_o such_o matter_n as_o so_o near_o concern_v the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o their_o immortal_a soul_n be_v obvious_a at_o first_o 〈◊〉_d it_o put_v i_o in_o mind_n of_o what_o be_v report_v of_o a_o great_a man_n smell_v strong_a of_o this_o conscience-destroying-doctrine_n who_o expostulate_v with_o some_o country_n man_n live_v under_o he_o for_o their_o nor_o do_v somewhat_o require_v of_o they_o by_o he_o for_o which_o nonperformance_n when_o they_o plead_v conscience_n he_o in_o a_o great_a â—uffe_n not_o without_o some_o execration_n reply_v what_o have_v the_o like_a of_o you_o to_o do_v with_o a_o conscience_n which_o be_v plain_o on_o the_o matter_n to_o say_v with_o hobbs_n that_o they_o and_o such_o as_o they_o shall_v have_v no_o conscience_n but_o what_o be_v ductile_a and_o governable_a by_o the_o conscience_n of_o lawful_a ruler_n and_o superior_n and_o that_o their_o command_n and_o prohibition_n make_v thing_n just_a and_o adjust_a which_o be_v â—ayeth_v mr._n liâ—h_o in_o his_o body_n of_o divinity_n page_z 378_o to_o make_v subject_n beast_n and_o the_o magistrate_n god_n 2_o all_o priâ—at_a person_n live_v in_o a_o kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n must_v hence_o forth_o according_a to_o these_o doctor_n allown_a and_o not_o in_o the_o feast_n regard_n in_o many_o thing_n and_o those_o not_o of_o little_a moment_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n their_o own_o conscience_n as_o his_o deputy_n and_o have_v recourse_n to_o the_o public_a conscience_n or_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n as_o the_o universal_a depute_v set_v over_o all_o the_o conscience_n of_o private_a person_n live_v therein_o nay_o to_o it_o as_o take_v god_n own_o room_n to_o make_v law_n direct_o immediate_o and_o of_o themselves_o obligatory_a of_o all_o their_o conscience_n and_o to_o enjoin_v obedience_n to_o they_o as_o so_o oblige_v they_o and_o must_v contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n no_o more_o notice_n the_o accuse_n or_o excusing_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n but_o those_o only_o of_o the_o public_a conscience_n 3_o the_o indispensible_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o the_o obedience_n of_o child_n to_o their_o parent_n ephes._n 6._o v_o 1._o viz._n in_o the_o lord_n whereby_o the_o apostle_n do_v undeniable_o lay_v it_o on_o the_o child_n to_o consider_v and_o judge_v by_o their_o judgement_n of_o private_a discretion_n whether_o the_o command_n and_o injunction_n of_o their_o parent_n be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o such_o in_o obedience_n whereto_o they_o may_v expect_v the_o lord_n approbation_n must_v be_v cashier_v and_o abandon_v for_o certain_o there_o lie_v no_o great_a obligation_n on_o subject_n to_o obey_v the_o command_n of_o the_o sovereign_a power_n of_o the_o kingdom_n or_o commonwealth_n then_o lie_v on_o child_n to_o obey_v their_o parent_n who_o be_v sovereign_n in_o family_n before_o ever_o there_o be_v
all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v always_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n yea_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o duty_n but_o we_o may_v look_v on_o it_o as_o a_o excellent_a mean_n for_o advance_v of_o holiness_n the_o six_o be_v where_o man_n honest_o aim_v to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n always_o void_a of_o offence_n it_o will_v be_v a_o exercise_v and_o uptake_v thing_n the_o seven_o be_v where_o this_o exercise_n be_v neglect_v and_o not_o serious_o carry_v on_o the_o conscience_n be_v leave_v to_o stumble_v at_o and_o to_o abound_v with_o offence_n as_o for_o the_o first_o that_o there_o be_v many_o kind_n of_o offence_n which_o people_n be_v subject_a to_o towards_o god_n and_o man_n it_o be_v a_o thing_n uncontroverted_a by_o all_o and_o we_o need_v say_v little_a of_o it_o only_o first_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o first_o table_n which_o be_v offence_n towards_o god_n be_v immediate_o against_o he_o and_o there_o be_v sin_n against_o the_o second_o table_n which_o although_o they_o be_v against_o god_n yet_o immediate_o they_o touch_v and_o reflect_v on_o man_n 2._o there_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n that_o be_v secret_a which_o god_n only_o be_v witness_n to_o and_o there_o be_v open_a sin_n which_o scandalize_v man_n paul_n endeavour_v to_o eschew_v all_o these_o for_o all_o be_v â—ins_n against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o wound_a of_o the_o conscience_n the_o second_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n within_o every_o man_n which_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o carriage_n and_o be_v according_o affect_v with_o it_o and_o affect_v he_o for_o it_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o that_o follow_v and_o have_v need_v to_o be_v more_o particular_o speak_v unto_o this_o truth_n than_o contain_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o man_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o way_n and_o walk_v hence_o it_o be_v say_v to_o bear_v witness_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o it_o be_v also_o say_v to_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v rom._n 2._o 15._o it_o witness_n for_o man_n and_o excuse_n and_o comfort_v they_o when_o they_o do_v well_o and_o witness_v against_o they_o accuse_v and_o reprove_v they_o when_o they_o do_v evil_a and_o so_o be_v to_o they_o as_o a_o check_n captor_n or_o censor_n the_o apostle_n aim_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n suppon_n that_o he_o and_o every_o man_n have_v a_o conscience_n and_o that_o it_o take_v notice_n of_o every_o thing_n and_o will_v take_v offence_n if_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n that_o thwart_v with_o it_o we_o shall_v not_o in_o this_o place_n stand_v to_o debate_v what_o conscience_n be_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o power_n or_o a_o faculty_n a_o habit_n or_o a_o act_n which_o as_o it_o will_v not_o be_v much_o for_o your_o edification_n so_o it_o will_v transcend_v the_o reach_n of_o many_o of_o you_o only_o in_o the_o general_n we_o may_v call_v it_o a_o power_n wherewith_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o his_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n 2._o we_o say_v â—ts_n according_o affect_v with_o every_o thing_n when_o the_o man_n do_v right_v it_o be_v please_v and_o when_o he_o do_v wrong_v its_o offend_a and_o wound_v as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o 10_o 11._o so_o 1_o sam._n 24._o 5._o it_o be_v say_v david_n heart_n smite_v he_o and_o prov._n 18._o 14._o this_o be_v call_v a_o wound_a spirit_n 3._o as_o it_o be_v affect_v so_o it_o affect_v the_o person_n when_o a_o man_n have_v do_v well_o it_o excuse_n and_o clear_v he_o and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v evil_a and_o wrong_v it_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v he_o in_o which_o respect_n conscience_n be_v call_v a_o judge_n pronounce_v sentence_n by_o absolve_v or_o condemn_v man_n scripture_n and_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o people_n and_o time_n clear_a and_o prove_v this_o 1._o the_o scripture_n say_v of_o heathen_n rom._n 2._o 15._o that_o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n accuse_v or_o excuse_v one_o another_o it_o hold_v out_o this_o to_o have_v be_v in_o adam_n who_o immediate_o after_o the_o fall_n gen._n 3._o 10._o say_v i_o hear_v thy_o voice_n and_o be_v afraid_a terror_n seize_v on_o he_o it_o mention_n this_o also_o to_o have_v be_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n who_o gen._n 42._o 21._o say_v we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n and_o in_o david_n in_o that_o forecited_a 1_o of_o sam._n 24._o 5._o where_o its_o say_a that_o his_o heart_n smite_v he_o it_o be_v clear_o also_o suppose_v 1_o john_n 3._o 19_o 20_o 21._o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n where_o we_o will_v take_v notice_n that_o what_o be_v here_o and_o sometime_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n call_v the_o heart_n be_v in_o the_o text_n and_o elsewhere_a call_v the_o conscience_n which_o suppose_v this_o to_o be_v in_o every_o man_n it_o be_v further_a clear_a from_o the_o daily_a experience_n of_o all_o in_o all_o time_n for_o sometime_o it_o be_v pouse_v to_o duty_n sometime_o it_o be_v challenge_v for_o the_o omission_n of_o duty_n or_o for_o commission_n of_o the_o contrary_a evil_n sometime_o it_o be_v speak_v peace_n sometime_o it_o be_v mar_v peace_n and_o denounce_v war_n as_o it_o be_v all_o which_o plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n so_o herod_n when_o he_o hear_v of_o christ_n miracle_n his_o conscience_n put_v he_o in_o mind_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n who_o he_o have_v behead_v and_o disquiet_v he_o with_o fear_n that_o john_n may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o the_o dead_a something_o of_o it_o appear_v likewise_o in_o achab_n when_o it_o put_v he_o to_o put_v on_o sackcloth_n all_o which_o i_o say_v plain_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n in_o man_n and_o beside_o full_a scripture-proof_n there_o be_v none_o but_o if_o they_o observe_v they_o will_v find_v their_o thought_n the_o mean_a while_n either_o accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v they_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a first_o to_o what_o this_o conscience_n be_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a satisfy_o to_o explain_v it_o 2._o to_o the_o use_n and_o end_n of_o it_o and_o why_o god_n have_v place_v this_o in_o man_n where_o we_o shall_v show_v the_o several_a sort_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v in_o man_n good_a and_o evil_n for_o the_o first_o to_o wit_n what_o conscience_n be_v we_o may_v for_o come_v at_o the_o understanding_n of_o it_o consider_v the_o name_n conscience_n which_o signify_v a_o co-knowledge_n or_o a_o knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o our_o knowledge_n which_o we_o may_v consider_v first_o as_o look_v to_o god_n knowledge_n go_v alongst_o with_o we_o and_o we_o go_n alongst_o with_o he_o and_o thus_o it_o imply_v as_o his_o knowledge_n of_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o way_n so_o our_o knowledge_n together_o with_o his_o of_o these_o or_o our_o take_a notice_n of_o they_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o knowledge_n 2._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o reflex-knowledge_n join_v with_o a_o direct_a knowledge_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n have_v a_o direct_a knowledge_n of_o prayer_n as_o his_o duty_n and_o a_o reflex_n knowledge_n go_v along_o with_o the_o practice_n or_o exercise_v of_o the_o duty_n whereby_o he_o see_v and_o discern_v himself_o either_o to_o behave_v suitable_o in_o it_o or_o to_o be_v faulty_a in_o this_o respect_n conscience_n be_v a_o practical_a knowledge_n take_v notice_n by_o a_o reflex_n act_n of_o a_o man_n way_n 3._o we_o may_v consider_v it_o as_o comprehend_v a_o knowledge_n of_o god_n law_n and_o then_o it_o signify_v a_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o compare_v with_o the_o law_n it_o have_v knowledge_n of_o the_o rule_n and_o so_o of_o what_o be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o withal_o it_o have_v in_o it_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o and_o of_o our_o conformity_n or_o disconformity_n to_o the_o rule_n conscience_n then_o in_o this_o respect_n be_v a_o man_n knowledge_n of_o god_n will_v and_o of_o himself_o as_o compare_v with_o it_o 4._o we_o may_v consider_v this_o co_z knowledge_n as_o it_o suppose_v beside_o the_o knowledge_n of_o ourselves_o the_o knowledge_n of_o something_o take_v notice_n of_o we_o or_o of_o something_o depute_v in_o we_o by_o god_n to_o keep_v a_o record_n
of_o all_o our_o carriage_n and_o particular_a action_n and_o so_o it_o be_v look_v on_o as_o some_o way_n different_a from_o we_o hence_o it_o be_v call_v a_o testimony_n the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n hence_o also_o a_o man_n will_v appeal_v to_o his_o conscience_n and_o it_o do_v when_o in_o any_o measure_n in_o exercise_n impartial_o and_o incorrupt_o bear_v witness_n and_o a_o manâ—_n conscience_n will_v speak_v against_o he_o as_o if_o it_o be_v at_o all_o no_o part_n of_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o command_v it_o silence_n however_o than_o we_o call_v it_o it_o be_v a_o power_n depute_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n by_o god_n take_v order_n from_o he_o and_o fâ—om_n his_o reveal_v will_n and_o word_n and_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v the_o man_n as_o he_o direct_v it_o be_v call_v prov._n 20._o 27._o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v above_o man_n in_o its_o sentence_n and_o accuse_v and_o will_v not_o be_v command_v by_o he_o to_o clear_v it_o yet_o a_o little_a further_o there_o be_v in_o conscience_n these_o three_o thing_n 1._o there_o be_v the_o lay_v down_o of_o some_o ground_n such_o as_o the_o law_n or_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o which_o it_o put_v a_o man_n to_o trial_n which_o be_v that_o we_o call_v the_o major_a or_o first_o proposition_n of_o the_o argument_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o judas_n when_o his_o conscience_n waken_v it_o lay_v down_o this_o ground_n which_o be_v do_v by_o light_n he_o that_o be_v guilty_a of_o innoceat_a blood_n have_v break_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o may_v expect_v horrible_a wrath._n 2._o there_o be_v a_o assume_v which_o be_v the_o minor_a or_o second_o proposition_n of_o the_o argument_n or_o the_o assumption_n if_o the_o man_n be_v guilty_a of_o such_o and_o such_o sin_n as_o thus_o but_o i_o judas_n be_o guilty_a of_o innocent_a blood_n and_o have_v break_v the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o this_o the_o conscience_n by_o its_o testimony_n confirm_v then_o 3._o it_o draw_v the_o conclusion_n and_o speak_v forth_o the_o man_n lot_n and_o give_v out_o his_o doom_n what_o he_o may_v expect_v as_o in_o the_o present_a instance_n thou_o judas_n may_v expect_v horrible_a wrath_n from_o god_n this_o conscience_n apply_v and_o lay_v home_o unto_o he_o every_o conscience_n have_v these_o three_o in_o less_o or_o more_o the_o way_n of_o conscience_n its_o reason_v and_o conclude_v be_v different_a from_o a_o man_n knowledge_n and_o light_n for_o a_o man_n may_v see_v sin_n and_o not_o be_v touch_v with_o it_o it_o dâ—ffers_v likewise_o from_o the_o memory_n for_o a_o man_n may_v remember_v that_o which_o affect_v he_o not_o it_o differ_v from_o self-examination_n for_o that_o if_o it_o be_v meeâ—_n examination_n bring_v a_o man_n only_o to_o know_v that_o he_o lie_v under_o such_o and_o such_o sin_n so_o and_o so_o circumstantiate_v though_o it_o make_v use_v of_o all_o these_o three_o as_o its_o instrument_n yet_o it_o goâ—_n beyond_o they_o and_o have_v a_o prick_a sting_a pain_n power_n it_o accuse_v sentence_v smite_v and_o sharp_o censure_v whereas_o before_o conscience_n act_v its_o part_n a_o man_n may_v look_v often_o on_o his_o sin_n and_o yet_o but_o overlook_v they_o and_o as_o to_o thing_n that_o be_v right_a conscience_n do_v not_o only_o or_o bare_o look_v on_o they_o but_o it_o have_v a_o approve_v testimony_n which_o prove_v comfortable_a there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o this_o in_o every_o one_o of_o you_o which_o will_v let_v nothing_o pass_v but_o more_o or_o less_o will_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o either_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v you_o for_o it_o as_o to_o the_o 2d_o the_o use_n of_o conscience_n or_o the_o end_n wherefore_o god_n have_v put_v this_o in_o man_n and_o woman_n which_o i_o shall_v draw_v to_o three_o head_n that_o may_v be_v as_o so_o many_o reason_n of_o the_o doctrine_n 1._o he_o have_v do_v so_o for_o this_o end_n that_o by_o it_o he_o may_v keep_v up_o his_o sovereignty_n power_n and_o terribleness_n and_o keep_v man_n under_o the_o awe_n and_o dread_v thereof_o for_o this_o which_o be_v call_v conscience_n will_v make_v the_o stole_v to_o tremble_v it_o will_v write_v and_o impress_n so_o uâ—vely_o and_o deep_o these_o great_a truth_n that_o none_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o blot_v they_o out_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n that_o there_o be_v a_o judgement_n to_o come_v and_o that_o all_o will_v be_v call_v to_o reckon_a which_o none_o will_v get_v eschew_v it_o will_v fix_v and_o fasten_v such_o self-convictions_a on_o sinner_n as_o will_v make_v they_o avoidable_o condemn_v themselves_o so_o john_n 8._o 9_o 10._o when_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n bring_v a_o woman_n take_v in_o adultery_n to_o christ_n intend_v thereby_o to_o trap_n and_o ensnare_v he_o he_o say_v he_o that_o be_v without_o sin_n among_o you_o let_v he_o cast_v the_o first_o stone_n at_o she_o whereby_o their_o conscience_n be_v make_v to_o bear_v such_o faithful_a testimony_n against_o they_o and_o to_o carry_v such_o terror_n with_o it_o that_o they_o be_v all_o force_a to_o steal_v away_o one_o by_o one_o and_o yet_o they_o need_v not_o to_o have_v think_v shame_n on_o account_n of_o any_o thing_n we_o hear_v man_n can_v have_v challenge_v they_o for_o but_o conscience_n have_v such_o a_o awe_n and_o force_v on_o they_o that_o there_o be_v no_o resist_n of_o it_o scripture-history_n do_v also_o tell_v we_o that_o such_o be_v the_o power_n and_o force_v of_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v awake_v that_o it_o will_v make_v the_o knee_n to_o smite_v one_o against_o another_o even_o of_o a_o belshazzar_n and_o will_v make_v a_o governor_n fellix_fw-la to_o tremble_v a_o second_o end_n be_v that_o god_n may_v hold_v man_n and_o woman_n at_o their_o duty_n in_o go_v about_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v command_v and_o prescribe_v by_o he_o and_o in_o abstain_v from_o forbid_a sin_n for_o if_o there_o be_v not_o some_o awe_n from_o conscience_n what_o extravagancy_n will_v they_o loose_o run_v into_o who_o have_v no_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o word_n and_o thus_o conscience_n have_v a_o force_n to_o put_v man_n to_o duty_n in_o these_o respect_n 1_o it_o discover_v duty_n and_o hold_v it_o before_o they_o when_o the_o lord_n have_v command_v to_o pray_v read_v the_o scripture_n to_o keep_v the_o church_n and_o wait_v upon_o ordinance_n dispense_v there_o to_o keep_v holy_a the_o sabbath_n day_n etc._n etc._n conscience_n put_v a_o man_n in_o mind_n of_o these_o and_o when_o he_o neglect_v any_o one_o of_o they_o will_v say_v to_o he_o thou_o shall_v be_v in_o another_o place_n or_o about_o other_o work_n so_o when_o david_n heart_n smite_v he_o it_o help_v he_o to_o see_v his_o duty_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o obligation_n to_o duty_n lay_v on_o by_o conscience_n so_o that_o the_o man_n can_v shift_v it_o he_o can_v he_o dare_v not_o say_v such_o a_o thing_n be_v not_o my_o duty_n for_o conscience_n bear_v it_o in_o and_o lay_v it_o on_o he_o convince_o 3._o there_o be_v a_o efficacy_n in_o conscience_n to_o pouss_n to_o duty_n from_o this_o come_v that_o restlessness_n and_o disquiet_n that_o be_v often_o in_o man_n and_o woman_n when_o duty_n be_v omit_v that_o they_o can_v have_v no_o peace_n till_o it_o be_v go_v about_o 4._o conscience_n invit_v to_o duty_n by_o promise_a peace_n upon_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n conscience_n have_v influence_n to_o restrain_v from_o sin_n 1._o by_o discover_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v sin_n and_o though_o the_o soul_n will_v notwithstanding_o endeavour_v to_o digest_v it_o yet_o conscience_n make_v a_o challenge_n to_o go_v down_o with_o it_o 2._o by_o threaten_v the_o sinner_n when_o it_o be_v warning_n be_v neglect_v and_o not_o take_v tell_v he_o that_o he_o shall_v repent_v it_o one_o day_n and_o that_o it_o will_v make_v he_o repent_v iâ—_n 3._o by_o take_v away_o the_o sweetness_n of_o sin_n and_o leave_v a_o sting_n in_o place_n of_o it_o as_o when_o achab_n kill_v naboth_n it_o say_v have_v thou_o kill_v and_o also_o take_v possession_n and_o from_o this_o arise_v challenge_n and_o fear_n of_o the_o execution_n of_o threaten_a judgement_n which_o quite_o mar_v the_o comfort_n the_o man_n expect_v in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n in_o all_o which_o it_o keep_v a_o majestic_a and_o stately_a divine_a way_n become_v god_n deputy_n and_o bear_v witness_n for_o he_o against_o the_o sinner_n a_o 3d._a end_n be_v to_o abbreviat_v as_o it_o be_v god_n process_n in_o judge_a man_n to_o justify_v and_o clear_v he_o and_o to_o make_v way_n for_o his_o sentence_n whatever_o it_o be_v 1._o it_o conduce_v 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v to_o
the_o open_n of_o the_o book_n to_o the_o sist_z and_o put_v of_o all_o person_n in_o a_o posture_n before_o he_o to_o be_v sentence_v by_o he_o it_o do_v in_o a_o manner_n all_o so_o that_o god_n have_v little_a or_o nothing_o to_o do_v as_o it_o be_v for_o it_o discover_v to_o a_o man_n what_o be_v his_o duty_n and_o his_o sin_n 2._o it_o cit_v he_o to_o compear_v and_o answer_v for_o neglect_v such_o and_o such_o a_o duty_n and_o commit_v such_o and_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o he_o can_v possible_o shift_v compearance_n 3._o when_o he_o do_v compear_v it_o give_v in_o a_o lâ—bell_n of_o accusation_n against_o the_o man_n and_o a_o catalogue_n of_o all_o his_o sin_n in_o thought_n word_n and_o deed_n this_o and_o this_o will_v it_o aweful_o say_v thou_o do_v at_o such_o and_o such_o a_o time_n in_o such_o and_o such_o a_o place_n aggravate_v by_o such_o and_o such_o circumstance_n 4._o it_o serve_v to_o be_v a_o witness_n yea_o in_o place_n of_o a_o thousand_o witness_n and_o there_o be_v no_o deny_v or_o shift_v of_o what_o ever_o it_o bear_v witness_v to_o all_o which_o we_o may_v see_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n gen._n 42._o 21._o who_o say_v one_o to_o another_o we_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n in_o that_o we_o see_v the_o anguish_n of_o his_o soul_n when_o he_o beseech_v we_o and_o we_o will_v not_o hear_v therefore_o be_v this_o distress_n come_v upon_o we_o the_o law_n discover_v that_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n conscience_n challenge_v and_o accuse_v they_o be_v cite_v the_o accusation_n be_v give_v in_o and_o prove_v this_o and_o this_o they_o do_v and_o do_v it_o with_o all_o these_o circumstance_n not_o a_o pitiful_a word_n that_o joseph_n speak_v nor_o a_o tear_n that_o he_o shed_v in_o the_o anguish_n of_o his_o soul_n beseech_v they_o to_o desist_v but_o they_o remember_v it_o now_o and_o there_o be_v no_o shift_v of_o the_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n nor_o cover_v of_o it_o as_o they_o have_v do_v before_o to_o their_o age_a father_n jacob_n but_o they_o must_v needs_o now_o take_v with_o all_o and_o confess_v we_o have_v sin_v and_o be_v very_o guilty_a concern_v our_o brother_n etc._n etc._n 5._o it_o pass_v sentence_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o heart_n be_v say_v to_o condemn_v when_o the_o thing_n be_v evil_a and_o to_o absolve_v or_o not_o condemn_v when_o the_o thing_n be_v good_a 1_o john_n 3_o 20_o 21._o 6._o when_o it_o have_v sentence_v and_o condemn_v it_o leave_v not_o the_o man_n so_o but_o go_v on_o and_o execute_v the_o sentence_n and_o turn_v a_o gnaw_a worm_n to_o bite_v and_o gnaw_v and_o as_o a_o executioner_n to_o buffeâ—_n and_o smite_v to_o damp_n and_o torment_v the_o man_n thus_o you_o may_v see_v how_o useful_a conscience_n be_v to_o help_v forward_o god_n judgement_n and_o to_o vindicat_fw-la him_z in_o his_o sentence_n and_o as_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o a_o guilty_a conscience_n so_o it_o be_v with_o a_o conscience_n absolve_v it_o will_v absolve_v when_o man_n condemn_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o paul_n here_o when_o man_n give_v in_o a_o lybel_n and_o accuse_v it_o will_v discharge_v as_o act_n 23._o 1._o man_n and_o brethren_n i_o have_v live_v in_o all_o good_a conscience_n before_o god_n until_o this_o day_n and_o when_o conscience_n have_v absolve_v it_o make_v cheerful_a as_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o 1_o john_n 3._o 20._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n so_o than_o we_o see_v conscience_n have_v these_o three_o great_a use_n and_o end_n 1._o to_o keep_v people_n in_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o greatness_n and_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o mind_n that_o they_o must_v give_v a_o account_n to_o he_o 2._o to_o hold_v they_o at_o their_o duty_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v very_o loath_a to_o contradict_v it_o 3._o if_o duty_n be_v neglect_v to_o record_v all_o their_o fault_n and_o to_o accuse_v and_o sentence_v they_o therefore_o and_o never_o to_o leave_v pursue_v they_o for_o conscience_n will_v continue_v as_o a_o worm_n in_o hell_n gnaw_v for_o ever_o and_o ever_o the_o first_o use_n serve_v to_o bear_v in_o this_o truth_n on_o you_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n the_o most_o ignorant_a and_o profane_a and_o haughty_a of_o you_o all_o whether_o young_a or_o old_a one_o and_o other_o of_o you_o have_v a_o conscience_n that_o take_v particular_a notice_n of_o every_o thing_n in_o your_o walk_n that_o record_v all_o that_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v and_o though_o you_o take_v not_o head_n to_o it_o now_o you_o will_v one_o day_n be_v make_v to_o know_v it_o take_v it_o therefore_o for_o a_o certain_a truth_n that_o you_o have_v such_o a_o thing_n within_o you_o that_o you_o have_v a_o knowledge_n with_o your_o knowledge_n even_o a_o conscience_n that_o remember_v when_o you_o will_v forget_v the_o mind_v of_o this_o be_v useful_a 1._o to_o make_v people_n cast_v out_o with_o sin_n rather_o than_o with_o their_o conscience_n 2._o to_o make_v they_o wary_a that_o they_o take_v not_o liberty_n in_o secret_a to_o sin_n 3._o to_o make_v they_o take_v kind_o with_o reproof_n for_o sin_n remember_v therefore_o that_o there_o be_v a_o conscience_n in_o every_o one_o of_o you_o you_o will_v possible_o think_v it_o needless_a to_o press_v this_o and_o i_o wish_v it_o be_v so_o but_o we_o may_v short_o point_v at_o these_o evidence_n to_o prove_v that_o many_o on_o the_o matter_n think_v they_o have_v not_o a_o conscience_n the_o first_o be_v that_o they_o take_v so_o little_a pain_n to_o prevent_v a_o quarrel_n from_o their_o conscience_n how_o many_o omit_v balk_v and_o step_v over_o duty_n and_o go_v on_o in_o sin_n which_o they_o dare_v not_o do_v if_o they_o believe_v that_o they_o have_v a_o conscience_n 2._o the_o few_o challenge_v that_o most_o have_v under_o many_o sin_n and_o their_o live_n in_o such_o peace_n and_o security_n as_o if_o they_o have_v not_o a_o conscience_n to_o disquiet_v they_o many_o man_n and_o woman_n know_v and_o be_v as_o little_o acquaint_v with_o challenge_n and_o conviction_n and_o stand_v in_o as_o little_a awe_n of_o conscience_n as_o if_o they_o have_v none_o at_o all_o hence_o we_o use_v to_o say_v that_o such_o a_o man_n have_v not_o a_o conscience_n because_o though_o he_o have_v it_o he_o regard_v it_o not_o and_o such_o a_o mâ—n_z have_v a_o conscience_n because_o he_o make_v use_v of_o it_o and_o listen_v to_o what_o it_o say_v 3._o that_o people_n seek_v more_o to_o approve_v themselves_o in_o outward_a and_o see_v duty_n than_o in_o inward_a and_o secret_a one_o and_o look_v more_o after_o man_n approbation_n then_o god_n and_o lean_v more_o to_o and_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o outward_a testimony_n from_o man_n then_o to_o and_o on_o inward_a one_o from_o their_o own_o conscience_n if_o conscience_n be_v real_o believe_v to_o be_v there_o will_v be_v as_o great_a awe_n of_o god_n and_o as_o great_a loathness_n to_o sin_n in_o secret_a as_o before_o many_o witness_n but_o you_o will_v object_n and_o say_v see_v every_o one_o have_v a_o conscience_n what_o can_v be_v the_o reason_n that_o many_o care_n so_o little_a for_o conscience_n answer_v 1._o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o man_n care_v so_o little_a for_o god_n if_o they_o care_v not_o for_o the_o lord_n and_o master_n it_o be_v no_o wonder_n they_o care_v so_o little_a for_o the_o deputy_n and_o servant_n shall_v we_o therefore_o think_v that_o there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n at_o all_o as_o a_o conscience_n in_o such_o no_o by_o no_o mean_n it_o will_v prove_v indeed_o that_o they_o slight_a conscience_n but_o not_o that_o they_o want_v a_o conscience_n 2._o there_o be_v in_o many_o man_n a_o contend_v with_o and_o provock_v of_o conscience_n which_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n make_v a_o silent_a conscience_n when_o the_o lord_n make_v conscience_n quick_a and_o set_v it_o on_o to_o reprove_v and_o check_v for_o sin_n and_o man_n do_v not_o listen_v to_o its_o check_n and_o reproof_n conscience_n offend_v and_o will_v not_o reprove_v conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n take_v order_n from_o he_o and_o when_o god_n will_v â—ot_n vouchsafe_v a_o word_n of_o reproof_n on_o a_o man_n neither_o will_v it_o ephraim_n be_v join_v to_o idol_n let_v he_o alone_o save_v the_o lord_n hos._n 4._o 17._o and_o from_o rom._n 1._o 20_o 21._o we_o may_v see_v the_o cause_n why_o god_n give_v up_o the_o heathen_a to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n to_o do_v thing_n that_o be_v not_o convenient_a to_o be_v their_o go_v cross_a to_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o their_o
which_o affect_v they_o as_o it_o be_v affect_v if_o their_o carriage_n be_v good_a it_o speak_v good_a to_o they_o if_o evil_a it_o speak_v evil_a to_o they_o hence_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n the_o meanwhile_n accuse_v or_o else_o excuse_v one_o another_o something_o also_o be_v speak_v to_o what_o conscience_n be_v and_o what_o be_v its_o office_n we_o shall_v now_o add_v a_o three_o doctrine_n though_o it_o be_v not_o the_o three_o in_o the_o order_n that_o we_o propose_v the_o doctrine_n at_o first_o which_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v so_o to_o walk_v yea_o if_o they_o be_v tender_a they_o will_v aim_v and_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v as_o in_o nothing_o they_o may_v give_v their_o conscience_n offence_n the_o forego_v doctrine_n be_v common_a to_o all_o viz._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n but_o this_o to_o walk_v friendly_a with_o the_o conscience_n so_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v or_o wrong_v it_o be_v not_o common_a to_o all_o but_o peculiar_a to_o he_o who_o be_v a_o christian_n in_o earnest_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o himself_o in_o the_o preecee_a chapter_n ver_fw-la 1._o man_n and_o brethren_n i_o have_v live_v before_o god_n in_o all_o good_a conscience_n until_o this_o day_n suppose_v he_o to_o mean_v since_o his_o conversion_n and_o 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o our_o rejoice_v be_v this_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n and_o heb._n 13._o 18._o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o and_o his_o pitch_v on_o this_o as_o a_o great_a ground_n of_o his_o consolation_n in_o strait_n be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n that_o it_o be_v not_o a_o common_a thing_n but_o peculiar_a to_o the_o tender_a christian_a hence_o be_v the_o confident_a approach_n of_o the_o saint_n to_o god_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n through_o the_o psalm_n in_o hezekiah_n isa._n 38._o 3._o remember_v i_o beseech_v thou_o how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n and_o in_o job_n chap._n 27._o vers_fw-la 6._o so_o 1_o john_n 3_o 21._o belove_a if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o point_n we_o shall_v show_v first_o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o that_o a_o believer_n ought_v to_o walk_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n and_o 3._o make_v use_n of_o the_o doctrine_n for_o clear_v of_o the_o first_o we_o shall_v show_v 1._o what_o offend_v the_o conscience_n 2._o what_o it_o be_v not_o to_o offend_v conscience_n the_o first_o of_o these_o may_v be_v comprise_v in_o these_o three_o general_n 1._o that_o whatever_o be_v sin_n against_o god_n offen_v the_o conscience_n for_o conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n substitute_n by_o he_o and_o sustain_v his_o place_n and_o vicê_n in_o a_o manner_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o give_v sentence_n for_o he_o whatever_o offend_v and_o wrong_v god_n must_v also_o offend_v and_o wrong_v the_o conscience_n and_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v not_o always_o at_o present_a sensible_o and_o feel_o affect_v the_o conscience_n yet_o it_o make_v way_n for_o that_o and_o prove_v to_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n do_v to_o it_o in_o that_o it_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n 2._o that_o be_v a_o offence_n and_o wrong_n to_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v against_o light_n and_o knowledge_n and_o though_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n according_a to_o that_o light_n be_v not_o always_o so_o vigorous_a yet_o where_o there_o be_v a_o thwar_n with_o light_n there_o be_v a_o dare_v of_o conscience_n and_o a_o contradict_v of_o it_o and_o as_o it_o be_v rem_fw-la 14_o 22._o a_o man_n then_o condemn_v himself_o in_o that_o which_o he_o allow_v and_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n against_o himself_o in_o that_o wherein_o he_o have_v light_a and_o clearness_n 3._o conscience_n be_v offend_v or_o wrong_v when_o any_o thing_n be_v adventure_v on_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o impulse_n of_o it_o as_o when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v to_o be_v do_v and_o we_o notwithstanding_o leave_v â—t_a undo_v or_o when_o it_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n ought_v â—ot_n to_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o since_o conscience_n as_o we_o say_v before_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o a_o man_n thought_n purpose_n word_n and_o way_n to_o give_v in_o a_o word_n for_o god_n when_o that_o which_o it_o say_v for_o he_o be_v slight_v it_o can_v but_o be_v offend_v and_o wrong_v second_o not_o to_o offend_v but_o to_o keep_v friendship_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n with_o the_o conscience_n suppose_v and_o take_v in_o these_o thing_n 1._o to_o have_v the_o judgement_n clear_o inform_v anent_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n for_o though_o conscience_n be_v above_o we_o yet_o it_o be_v under_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v inform_v from_o his_o word_n and_o we_o lie_v a_o stumbling-block_n before_o it_o when_o we_o endeavour_v not_o to_o have_v the_o eye_n single_a as_o the_o lord_n speak_v and_o the_o understanding_n clear_a 2._o to_o listen_v and_o lend_v the_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v and_o after_o deliberation_n to_o be_v swey_v and_o determine_v according_a to_o what_o it_o say_v in_o do_v or_o forbear_v for_o unless_o we_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n we_o know_v not_o when_o we_o please_v or_o displease_v it_o 3._o to_o ply_v and_o steer_v a_o straight_a course_n according_a to_o the_o dictate_v and_o direction_n of_o conscience_n to_o take_v order_n to_o speak_v so_o from_o it_o so_o as_o when_o conscience_n point_v at_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n as_o evil_n to_o stand_v and_o sist_z there_o without_o dare_v to_o meddle_v with_o it_o or_o move_v towards_o it_o and_o when_o it_o hold_v forth_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v a_o duty_n straight_a way_n to_o give_v obedience_n to_o it_o herein_o main_o consist_v a_o good_a conscience_n consider_v it_o with_o respect_n to_o its_o exercise_n when_o once_o make_v good_a to_o have_v our_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o against_o we_o and_o without_o have_v ground_n to_o say_v any_o thing_n against_o we_o when_o it_o can_v challenge_v we_o and_o say_v that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o do_v it_o not_o or_o that_o it_o enjoin_v we_o to_o forbear_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o yet_o we_o go_v on_o to_o the_o do_v of_o it_o so_o that_o when_o we_o come_v before_o god_n it_o may_v have_v nothing_o to_o reprove_v or_o challenge_v we_o for_o nothing_o to_o condemn_v we_o in_o but_o as_o it_o hold_v out_o our_o duty_n to_o we_o from_o the_o word_n just_o so_o to_o endeavour_v to_o behave_v in_o all_o thing_n for_o the_o second_o thing_n propose_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o viz._n that_o a_o believer_n ought_v and_o if_o he_o be_v tender_a will_v walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o offend_v his_o conscience_n these_o three_o thing_n will_v confirm_v it_o 1._o the_o very_a nature_n and_o office_n of_o his_o conscience_n if_o so_o be_v that_o conscience_n speak_v for_o god_n and_o be_v appoint_v by_o he_o as_o his_o deputy_n to_o be_v a_o remembrancer_n of_o duty_n and_o a_o restrainer_n from_o sin_n than_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o love_n to_o he_o will_v make_v a_o man_n that_o be_v tender_a walk_v according_a to_o the_o direction_n of_o conscience_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o rom._n 13._o 5._o the_o command_n that_o be_v lay_v on_o for_o god_n sake_n be_v also_o lay_v on_o for_o conscience_n sake_n wherefore_o say_v he_o you_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o also_o for_o conscience_n sake_n that_o be_v from_o the_o awe_n of_o god_n that_o put_v we_o to_o our_o duty_n and_o from_o respect_n to_o conscience_n his_o deputy_n in_o this_o respect_n the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n for_o as_o a_o man_n can_v be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o neither_o can_v he_o be_v tender_a who_o refuse_v to_o comply_v with_o the_o direction_n of_o his_o conscience_n speak_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n to_o he_o a_o second_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o great_a advantage_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n it_o give_v much_o quietness_n and_o sweet_a peace_n in_o all_o strait_n and_o trouble_n and_o much_o confidence_n and_o holy_a boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n if_o our_o conscience_n condemn_v we_o not_o say_v
john_n then_o have_v we_o confidence_n towards_o god_n in_o a_o word_n whatever_o condition_n a_o man_n can_v be_v in_o it_o prove_v his_o friend_n nay_o his_o best_a friend_n a_o three_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o great_a prejudice_n that_o come_v to_o a_o man_n through_o his_o thwart_a and_o come_v in_o top_n with_o conscience_n he_o want_v that_o sweet_a inward_a peace_n that_o pass_v all_o understanding_n to_o keep_v and_o garrison_n his_o heart_n and_o mind_n whereby_o he_o be_v much_o expose_v and_o lay_v open_a god_n look_v terrible-like_a upon_o he_o and_o he_o have_v no_o access_n to_o he_o with_o boldness_n and_o confidence_n when_o the_o conscience_n be_v disquiet_v trouble_v and_o as_o it_o be_v through_o other_o or_o confuse_a and_o fear_n arise_v and_o challenge_n be_v waken_v therein_o these_o threaten_v a_o challenge_n from_o god_n and_o portend_v a_o storm_n of_o wrath_n to_o follow_v hence_o be_v david_n complaint_n psal._n 32._o 3._o 4._o when_o i_o keep_v silence_n my_o bone_n wax_v old_a through_o my_o roar_a etc._n etc._n and_o his_o lamentation_n throughout_o the_o 51._o psalm_n and_o to_o this_o purpose_n the_o apostle_n john_n speak_v very_o weighty_o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o god_n be_v great_a than_o our_o heart_n and_o know_v all_o thing_n where_o he_o plain_o insinuat_v that_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n its_o condemn_v be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o god_n condemn_v and_o a_o evidence_n of_o it_o and_o that_o withal_o the_o latter_a be_v as_o more_o absolute_o infallible_a so_o more_o terrible_a than_o the_o former_a where_o these_o three_o go_v along_o together_o it_o be_v impossible_a where_o a_o person_n be_v tender_a but_o he_o will_v be_v loath_a to_o top_n or_o thwart_v with_o his_o conscience_n as_o for_o the_o use_v which_o we_o propose_v to_o speak_v to_o in_o the_o three_o place_n they_o may_v be_v draw_v to_o these_o fouâ—_n 1._o for_o information_n and_o instruction_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n 2._o for_o trial_n and_o to_o evidence_n who_o be_v sincere_a believer_n 3._o for_o reproof_n 4._o for_o exhortation_n there_o be_v need_n of_o all_o these_o especial_o to_o such_o christian_n who_o take_v but_o little_a heed_n to_o their_o conscience_n the_o first_o use_n show_v what_o be_v believer_n duty_n they_o shall_v by_o all_o mean_n learn_v to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o what_o conscience_n say_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o labour_n to_o have_v their_o conscience_n well_o inform_v and_o take_v notice_n of_o what_o it_o speak_v ere_o they_o do_v any_o thing_n and_o what_o be_v conscience_n thought_n of_o it_o after_o it_o be_v do_v and_o according_o to_o be_v affect_v determine_v and_o sway_v it_o be_v true_a the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v the_o supreme_a rule_n and_o to_o be_v hearken_v to_o in_o the_o first_o place_n but_o that_o which_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v to_o be_v concern_v take_a advice_n from_o conscience_n which_o 1._o do_v make_v the_o law_n speak_v more_o sensible_o lively_a and_o aloud_o then_o before_o 2._o it_o make_v it_o speak_v more_o plain_o for_o when_o people_n reason_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o shuffle_v by_o a_o word_n that_o samâ—_n word_n come_v into_o and_o take_v hold_v of_o the_o conscience_n will_v become_v more_o clear_a and_o convince_a and_o it_o make_v the_o understanding_n be_v thereby_o make_v more_o single_a to_o take_v it_o up_o better_a 3._o it_o make_v the_o man_n more_o impartial_a when_o the_o word_n come_v not_o to_o his_o judgement_n only_o neither_o will_v he_o leave_v the_o word_n with_o his_o light_n and_o reason_n simple_o nor_o to_o debate_v with_o his_o inclination_n and_o affection_n but_o put_v the_o word_n and_o his_o conscience_n together_o and_o take_v the_o meaning_n of_o it_o some_o way_n immediate_o from_o his_o conscience_n it_o make_v he_o single_a and_o unbiased_a as_o i_o say_v before_o and_o sometime_o aâ—_n conscience_n will_v speak_v when_o the_o judgement_n have_v little_a or_o nothing_o to_o say_v so_o it_o decide_v often_o betwixt_o the_o opposite_a reason_n of_o the_o judgement_n for_o both_o side_n 4._o the_o advice_n and_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n be_v much_o more_o powerful_a than_o that_o of_o the_o simple_a judgement_n and_o reason_n and_o adher_v better_a and_o more_o close_o than_o affection_n or_o inclination_n conscience_n be_v more_o direct_o god_n deputy_n and_o in_o a_o more_o immediate_a subordination_n to_o he_o iâ—_n stick_v more_o tenacious_o by_o duty_n and_o it_o be_v as_o a_o check_n to_o our_o humour_n and_o as_o a_o compass_n to_o steer_v our_o course_n by_o in_o all_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o be_v sway_v by_o its_o advice_n hence_o some_o who_o can_v almost_o debate_v nothing_o in_o reason_n yet_o will_v not_o dare_v for_o conscience_n to_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n some_o necessary_a question_n relate_v to_o practice_n arise_v from_o this_o use_n which_o we_o shall_v speak_v a_o few_o word_n to_o as_o 1._o if_o any_o other_o thing_n beside_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o duty_n 2._o if_o other_o thing_n may_v have_v a_o impulse_n to_o duty_n whether_o it_o be_v credit_n interest_n inclination_n will_n or_o affection_n how_o may_v the_o impulse_n of_o these_o be_v decern_v and_o difference_v from_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n 3._o whether_o the_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n may_v always_o be_v follow_v see_v its_o impulse_n may_v be_v wrong_a 4._o what_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o such_o a_o case_n and_o how_o may_v we_o difference_n what_o be_v right_a 5._o whether_o a_o man_n and_o his_o conscience_n may_v be_v friend_n and_o agree_v together_o in_o a_o wrong_a cause_n or_o practice_n for_o the_o first_o question_n whether_o any_o thing_n beside_o conscience_n do_v or_o may_v pour_v to_o duty_n we_o answer_v affirmative_o many_o thing_n may_v court_v we_o which_o by_o their_o impulse_n do_v often_o thwart_v with_o conscience_n hence_o be_v the_o inward_a combat_n in_o the_o christian_a betwixt_o the_o flesh_n and_o the_o spirit_n the_o flesh_n do_v pouss_n to_o one_o thing_n and_o conscience_n to_o the_o contrary_a therefore_o gal._n 5._o 17._o it_o be_v say_v the_o flesh_n lust_v against_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o spirit_n against_o the_o flesh_n and_o these_o two_o be_v contrary_a one_o to_o another_o and_o rom._n 7._o 23._o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o a_o law_n in_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o lead_v he_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o member_n more_o particular_o these_o thing_n as_o we_o hint_v before_o may_v have_v a_o impulse_n towards_o the_o do_n of_o duty_n as_o first_o man_n credit_n have_v a_o strong_a impulse_n where_o any_o thing_n cross_v it_o be_v apprehend_v to_o occur_v 2._o man_n interest_n have_v often_o a_o impulse_n so_o as_o to_o carry_v on_o a_o selfish_a design_n it_o will_v make_v gain_n seem_v to_o be_v godliness_n 3_o man_n natural_a inclination_n will_n and_o affection_n have_v a_o impulse_n also_o and_o the_o impulse_n of_o these_o will_v sometime_o be_v exceed_v like_a to_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n and_o here_o we_o may_v consider_v these_o three_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v influence_n upon_o 1._o they_o may_v have_v influence_n to_o mar_v a_o man_n light_n and_o pervert_v his_o understanding_n as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o a_o gift_n it_o blind_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o pervert_v the_o understanding_n of_o the_o prudent_a so_o man_n credit_n interest_n and_o natural_a inclination_n may_v in_o a_o sort_n bribe_v the_o understanding_n and_o blind_a the_o judgement_n insensible_o and_o the_o man_n not_o know_v of_o it_o distinct_o at_o least_o 2._o when_o they_o have_v pervert_v the_o judgement_n they_o may_v engage_v the_o affection_n and_o these_o drive_v violent_o 3._o if_o the_o man_n yield_v not_o to_o such_o a_o thing_n his_o credit_n or_o interest_n will_v vex_v he_o like_o conscience_n and_o take_v rest_n and_o quiet_a from_o he_o as_o we_o see_v in_o herod_n matth._n 14._o 9_o who_o when_o the_o dance_a damsel_n suit_v for_o the_o head_n of_o john_n the_o baptist_n be_v sorry_a or_o grieve_v nevertheless_o for_o his_o oath_n sake_n and_o for_o they_o who_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o he_o command_v it_o to_o be_v give_v she_o folk_n will_v have_v think_v that_o it_o be_v his_o conscience_n that_o make_v he_o sorry_a but_o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o conscience_n but_o credit_n therefore_o it_o be_v say_v not_o only_o for_o his_o oath_n sake_n but_o for_o they_o that_o sit_v at_o table_n with_o he_o it_o be_v like_a if_o his_o oath_n have_v be_v be_v give_v in_o private_a conscience_n will_v not_o much_o have_v trouble_v he_o and_o while_o it_o be_v say_v he_o be_v sorry_a or_o grieve_a it_o show_v plain_o that_o his_o credit_n suffer_v he_o to_o
duty_n as_o it_o be_v with_o these_o of_o who_o the_o lord_n speak_v john_n 16._o 2._o the_o time_n come_v when_o whosoever_o kill_v you_o will_v think_v that_o he_o do_v god_n service_n though_o a_o err_a conscience_n be_v not_o so_o proper_o to_o be_v call_v conscience_n for_o it_o rather_o give_v offence_n then_o edify_v yet_o this_o conscience_n such_o as_o it_o be_v put_v a_o man_n into_o a_o strait_a that_o he_o can_v neither_o do_v nor_o forbear_v that_o be_v it_o necessary_o while_o it_o remain_v involve_v he_o in_o sin_n whether_o he_o do_v or_o forbear_v hence_o it_o be_v say_v of_o such_o a_o conscience_n ligat_fw-la sed_fw-la non_fw-la obligat_fw-la it_o bind_v up_o the_o man_n but_o do_v not_o oblige_v for_o the_o man_n that_o have_v thâ—s_o err_a conscience_n make_v he_o think_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o follow_v the_o impulse_n of_o his_o conscience_n sin_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o suppoâ—e_v it_o be_v in_o persecute_v or_o kill_v tâ—e_v servant_n of_o god_n which_o he_o think_v good_a service_n neither_o will_v the_o error_n of_o his_o conscience_n excuse_v he_o here_o because_o he_o shall_v have_v endeavour_v to_o have_v it_o better_a inâ—_n for_o these_o that_o sin_n in_o the_o law_n shall_v be_v judge_v by_o the_o law_n and_o if_o he_o forbear_v to_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n he_o sin_v against_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v god_n mind_n which_o it_o direct_v and_o his_o conscience_n be_v to_o he_o in_o place_n of_o god_n he_o be_v guilty_a as_o if_o what_o he_o do_v be_v do_v direct_o and_o immediate_o against_o god_n for_o to_o he_o it_o be_v so_o and_o he_o think_v so_o and_o thus_o through_o his_o own_o cuipable_a accession_n it_o lay_v a_o necessity_n of_o sin_v on_o he_o whether_o he_o do_v or_o forbear_v yet_o it_o never_o oblidge_v nor_o can_v oblige_v he_o to_o go_v contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o suppose_v he_o think_v that_o such_o a_o minister_n who_o be_v a_o honest_a and_o faithful_a man_n shall_v be_v depose_v or_o excommunicate_v it_o do_v not_o oblige_v he_o to_o persecute_v a_o innocent_a and_o honest_a man_n and_o yet_o if_o he_o endeavour_v it_o noâ—_n he_o sin_v against_o his_o conscience_n in_o countenance_v of_o that_o person_n which_o he_o in_o his_o misapprehension_n judge_v to_o be_v sin_n this_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v somewhat_o strange_a and_o paradoxal_a but_o it_o be_v the_o woeful_a effect_n and_o bitter_a fruit_n of_o the_o want_n of_o light_n and_o of_o a_o well-informed_n conscience_n and_o it_o flow_v not_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n nor_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n but_o from_o our_o own_o corruption_n making_n no_o use_v or_o a_o ill_a use_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o superior_a of_o the_o conscience_n so_o that_o there_o be_v hardly_o a_o worse_a thing_n than_o one_fw-mi err_v conscience_n because_o whether_o the_o man_n that_o have_v it_o forbear_v or_o do_v to_o he_o it_o be_v sin_n only_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a it_o oblidge_v to_o do_v or_o forbear_v for_o when_o the_o word_n determine_v not_o conscience_n though_o misinform_v cast_v the_o balance_n to_o the_o side_n which_o it_o judge_v to_o be_v necessary_a as_o for_o instance_n it_o a_o man_n think_v it_o a_o sin_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n with_o the_o head_n un-covered_n he_o be_v oblige_v to_o cover_v his_o head_n and_o contrary_o for_o conscience_n there_o cast_v the_o balance_n but_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v unlawful_a on_o the_o matter_n it_o may_v bind_v he_o up_o while_o it_o remain_v in_o a_o error_n so_o as_o he_o can_v without_o sin_n counteract_v its_o dictat_fw-la but_o it_o never_o oblidge_v he_o to_o sin_n 2._o a_o opinionative_n conscience_n be_v not_o a_o good_a guide_n that_o be_v when_o a_o man_n have_v some_o sort_n of_o light_n or_o apprehension_n of_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v duty_n yet_o fear_n that_o it_o may_v not_o be_v duty_n and_o have_v some_o 〈◊〉_d or_o 〈◊〉_d about_o the_o matter_n for_o 1._o this_o be_v not_o faith_n but_o opinion_n and_o in_o matter_n of_o faith_n opinion_n can_v be_v a_o ground_n to_o rest_v upon_o therefore_o rom._n 14._o 5._o every_o man_n â—ughe_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n 2._o in_o matter_n of_o practice_n the_o impulse_n of_o a_o opinionate_v conscience_n will_v not_o warrant_v we_o for_o when_o a_o man_n hesitat_v he_o can_v do_v in_o faith_n therefore_o to_o do_v it_o be_v sin_n to_o he_o because_o he_o have_v not_o persuasion_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n as_o to_o practice_n he_o be_v like_o the_o man_n that_o have_v the_o err_v conscience_n he_o can_v neither_o do_v nor_o forbear_v but_o he_o sin_v 3._o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o truth_n not_o fundamental_a opinion_n may_v have_v weight_n with_o he_o and_o sway_n he_o to_o that_o which_o be_v most_o probable_a and_o have_v most_o conveniency_n with_o it_o though_o in_o matter_n of_o practice_n it_o be_v otherways_o and_o it_o give_v conscience_n peace_n in_o this_o respect_n when_o that_o which_o have_v most_o probability_n in_o it_o as_o i_o have_v just_a now_o say_v be_v incline_v to_o 3._o a_o doubt_v conscience_n of_o some_o affinity_n with_o the_o former_a which_o leave_v a_o man_n in_o a_o hover_a or_o suspense_n that_o he_o know_v not_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n or_o if_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v sin_n or_o not_o certain_o here_o a_o man_n be_v bind_v not_o to_o do_v doubt_o for_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o do_v rom._n 14._o 23._o and_o yet_o there_o be_v hazard_n in_o forbear_v if_o the_o thing_n be_v duty_n yea_o in_o this_o case_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o sin_v buâ—_n still_o of_o the_o man_n own_o contract_n when_o there_o be_v not_o a_o mid_n but_o either_o the_o man_n must_v do_v or_o forbear_v yet_o in_o this_o case_n its_o best_a for_o a_o man_n to_o betake_v himself_o to_o the_o safe_a side_n and_o to_o hazard_v on_o suffer_v rather_o than_o on_o sin_n as_o for_o example_n a_o man_n must_v either_o do_v such_o a_o thing_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n whereof_o he_o doubt_v or_o beâ—n_a hazard_n of_o lose_v much_o or_o all_o that_o he_o have_v in_o the_o world_n he_o know_v that_o suffering_n simple_o consider_v be_v no_o sin_n and_o he_o be_v some_o way_n matter_n to_o say_v so_o of_o his_o own_o suffering_n but_o not_o of_o his_o do_v since_o he_o doubt_v and_o his_o doubt_v lay_v this_o obligation_n on_o he_o rather_o to_o abstain_v then_o to_o do_v and_o to_o take_v his_o hazard_n of_o suffering_n for_o in_o dubiis_fw-la tutius_fw-la est_fw-la abstineâ—e_fw-la and_o in_o this_o case_n no_o man_n authority_n can_v oblige_v and_o bind_v the_o conscience_n to_o a_o thing_n as_o duty_n neither_o can_v it_o be_v loose_v by_o mere_a authority_n or_o respect_n to_o man_n when_o it_o doubt_v because_o no_o man_n mere_a authority_n can_v quiet_v and_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n nor_o keep_v the_o man_n skaithless_a before_o god_n when_o on_o such_o a_o account_n he_o do_v any_o thing_n doubt_o a_o 4._o sort_n be_v a_o scruple_a conscience_n which_o differ_v from_o the_o former_a in_o this_o that_o it_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o main_a of_o duty_n but_o scruple_v and_o be_v unclear_a in_o some_o accidental_a thing_n that_o go_v along_o with_o it_o as_o for_o instance_n when_o one_o will_v pray_v and_o apprehend_v that_o in_o pray_v he_o will_v take_v god_n name_n in_o vain_a because_o it_o may_v be_v some_o blasphemous_a thought_n be_v inject_v into_o his_o mind_n or_o when_o a_o man_n be_v about_o some_o necessary_a duty_n of_o his_o lawful_a call_n and_o have_v some_o thing_n like_o a_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n to_o pray_v which_o haunt_v and_o some_o way_n vex_v he_o this_o be_v a_o scruple_n but_o upon_o a_o light_a ground_n and_o have_v little_a or_o no_o reason_n for_o it_o yet_o it_o be_v bear_v in_o with_o violence_n and_o therefore_o in_o this_o case_n a_o man_n be_v oblige_v rather_o to_o go_v over_o the_o scruple_n and_o follow_v his_o duty_n for_o although_o he_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o satisfy_v his_o conscience_n by_o reason_n in_o this_o case_n as_o in_o the_o former_a yet_o when_o the_o duty_n be_v clear_a he_o shall_v trample_v upon_o what_o will_v hinder_v he_o and_o go_v on_o with_o the_o duty_n and_o in_o so_o do_v he_o trample_v not_o upon_o his_o conscience_n but_o upon_o that_o which_o come_v in_o to_o mar_v he_o in_o his_o duty_n and_o follow_v or_o to_o speak_v so_o dog_v his_o conscience_n a_o 5_o sort_n be_v a_o weak_a and_o infirm_a conscience_n
suspicious-like_a when_o the_o conscience_n be_v overwell_n please_v and_o when_o conscience_n and_o man_n humour_n be_v both_o please_v together_o and_o when_o corruption_n do_v not_o side_n and_o take_v part_n against_o it_o this_o i_o say_v be_v a_o shrewd_a evidence_n that_o conscience_n be_v err_v for_o when_o a_o man_n be_v go_v aright_o about_o his_o duty_n corruption_n will_v be_v against_o he_o but_o when_o all_o be_v silent_a it_o be_v no_o good_a token_n when_o paul_n be_v a_o delight_v himself_o in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o law_n in_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o lead_v he_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n in_o his_o member_n 2._o it_o may_v be_v know_v by_o this_o when_o conscience_n have_v more_o contentment_n and_o peace_n and_o great_a delight_n and_o fainness_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a suppose_a duty_n then_o in_o all_o other_o duty_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n think_v nothing_o of_o but_o undervalu_v infant-baptism_n and_o must_v needs_o be_v baptize_v over_o again_o and_o when_o he_o be_v rebaptise_v he_o have_v more_o satisfaction_n and_o as_o he_o think_v more_o comfort_n in_o that_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n then_o in_o all_o other_o duty_n he_o go_v about_o though_o his_o rebaptise_v be_v indeed_o no_o duty_n call_v for_o from_o he_o that_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o err_a conscience_n for_o if_o it_o be_v the_o peace_n comfort_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o a_o well_o inform_v conscience_n he_o will_v have_v comfort_n if_o not_o alike_o comfort_v in_o all_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n so_o when_o some_o man_n have_v more_o delight_n in_o make_v other_o to_o become_v antinomian_o or_o separatist_n or_o quaker_n they_o be_v of_o such_o a_o judgement_n porswasion_n and_o sect_n themselves_o then_o in_o gain_v man_n freâ—_n popery_n to_o be_v protestant_n or_o it_o may_v be_v from_o be_v mere_o natural_a man_n to_o be_v in_o good_a earnest_n exercise_v to_o godliness_n and_o like_o the_o pharisee_n will_v compass_v sea_n and_o land_n for_o that_o end_n not_o to_o make_v they_o child_n of_o god_n but_o to_o proselyte_n they_o strong_a to_o their_o own_o sect_n that_o be_v a_o shrewd_a token_n that_o its_o man_n particular_a interest_n and_o humour_n that_o sway_v they_o more_o than_o conscience_n do_v or_o if_o conscience_n have_v influence_n here_o it_o be_v a_o erroneous_a and_o mistake_a one_o 3._o it_o may_v be_v know_v by_o a_o man_n more_o common_a and_o ordinary_a frame_n and_o way_n it_o be_v hard_o to_o say_v that_o conscience_n put_v a_o man_n to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o to_o change_v his_o way_n in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a indeed_o to_o the_o better_a when_o yet_o it_o do_v not_o set_v he_o on_o endeavour_n in_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n to_o change_v his_o way_n and_o life_n in_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o it_o for_o as_o true_a grace_n be_v uniform_a so_o a_o well_o inform_v and_o true_o good_a conscience_n make_v a_o man_n endeavour_v a_o universal_a and_o uniform_a change_n in_o his_o way_n and_o without_o all_o doubt_n it_o be_v as_o clear_v a_o duty_n to_o pray_v to_o search_v his_o conscience_n to_o walk_v without_o give_v offence_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n to_o meditate_v thereon_o to_o injure_v no_o man_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o he_o will_v be_v strict_a in_o such_o a_o particular_a but_o pray_v no_o more_o wait_v no_o more_o upon_o ordinance_n no_o better_o than_o he_o have_v wont_a to_o do_v etc._n etc._n this_o look_v very_a like_o a_o err_a conscience_n for_o as_o i_o say_v just_a now_o conscience_n make_v not_o a_o man_n to_o change_v in_o one_o thing_n only_o but_o it_o put_v he_o to_o endeavour_v also_o a_o change_n in_o all_o therefore_o beware_v of_o such_o deceit_n for_o conscience_n be_v much_o abuse_v in_o this_o time_n it_o be_v indeed_o a_o excellent_a thing_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o void_a of_o offence_n but_o it_o be_v a_o desperate_a thing_n to_o make_v a_o shoe-horn_n or_o stalking-horss_n of_o conscience_n to_o make_v it_o subserve_v our_o own_o humour_n and_o the_o carry_v on_o of_o our_o own_o particular_a interest_n or_o to_o leave_v the_o word_n and_o to_o pretend_v conscience_n and_o to_o be_v sway_v by_o interest_n under_o pretext_n of_o conscience_n there_o be_v great_a need_n then_o to_o look_v well_o to_o the_o word_n and_o to_o have_v the_o word_n and_o conscience_n go_v hand_n in_o hand_n together_o to_o keep_v near_o god_n and_o to_o walk_v in_o holy_a fear_n that_o conscience_n have_v not_o any_o thing_n wherewith_o it_o may_v charge_v we_o just_o sermon_n iii_o act_n 24._o 16._o and_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n there_o be_v many_o sad_a mistake_n about_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o the_o serious_a and_o zealous_a follow_v of_o holiness_n for_o man_n either_o diminish_v from_o holiness_n as_o to_o the_o extent_n of_o it_o or_o dispense_v with_o and_o take_v a_o liberty_n and_o latitude_n to_o themselves_o in_o the_o follow_n of_o it_o in_o this_o text_n we_o have_v a_o short_a and_o sweet_a sum_n of_o paul_n life_n a_o excellent_a copy_n and_o pattern_n of_o a_o christian_a walk_n and_o conversation_n wherein_o he_o give_v we_o a_o view_n of_o these_o two_o 1._o of_o his_o aim_n and_o design_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n and_o that_o in_o a_o universal_a extent_n always_o or_o at_o all_o time_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n 2._o of_o his_o manner_n of_o prosecute_a it_o herein_o say_v he_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o he_o be_v serious_o take_v up_o with_o it_o it_o be_v his_o great_a business_n his_o one_o thing_n as_o he_o call_v it_o phil._n 3._o 13._o we_o speak_v of_o these_o two_o general_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v in_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n a_o conscience_n that_o take_v notice_n of_o their_o action_n and_o be_v ready_a to_o be_v offend_v with_o their_o miscarriage_n 2._o that_o man_n and_o woman_n and_o more_o especial_o believer_n ought_v so_o to_o live_v and_o if_o tender_a will_v aim_v so_o to_o live_v as_o they_o may_v be_v friend_n with_o their_o conscience_n and_o that_o there_o may_v be_v good_a term_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n betwixt_o they_o and_o their_o conscience_n that_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v no_o challenge_n against_o they_o in_o any_o thing_n of_o their_o walk_n either_o towards_o god_n or_o toward_a man_n this_o be_v clear_o and_o convince_o hold_v out_o in_o paul_n practice_n here_o who_o great_a aim_n design_n and_o endeavour_n be_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o his_o conscience_n may_v have_v nothing_o to_o say_v against_o he_o in_o duty_n relate_v either_o to_o god_n or_o to_o man_n in_o secret_a in_o private_a or_o in_o public_a this_o we_o prosecute_v a_o little_a and_o show_v you_o that_o there_o be_v a_o tie_n and_o obligation_n lie_v on_o man_n so_o to_o walk_v and_o to_o follow_v not_o a_o err_a and_o delude_a conscience_n but_o conscience_n right_o inform_v pouse_v accuse_v or_o excuse_v according_a to_o the_o word_n for_o it_o be_v conscience_n so_o qualify_v that_o be_v the_o rule_n subordinate_a to_o the_o infallible_o regulate_v rule_n of_o the_o word_n the_o use_v of_o the_o doctrine_n as_o we_o show_v be_v four_o the_o 1._o for_o instruction_n the_o 2._o for_o trial_n the_o 3._o for_o conviction_n or_o reproof_n the_o 4._o for_o exhortation_n we_o speak_v a_o little_a to_o the_o use_v of_o instruction_n the_o last_o day_n to_o which_o now_o we_o add_v that_o if_o man_n shall_v so_o walk_v as_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v nothing_o to_o charge_v they_o with_o nor_o to_o cast_v up_o to_o they_o wherein_o they_o have_v thwart_v with_o it_o then_o every_o man_n design_n in_o his_o christian_a walk_n ought_v to_o be_v as_o extensive_a as_o his_o conscience_n be_v in_o its_o office_n either_o in_o direct_v or_o in_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v otherways_o he_o can_v have_v peace_n in_o his_o way_n if_o he_o disperise_v with_o himself_o in_o any_o thing_n which_o his_o conscience_n do_v not_o dispense_v with_o he_o in_o and_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o have_v solid_a peace_n if_o he_o do_v otherways_o so_o than_o the_o walk_n of_o a_o christian_a ought_v to_o be_v equal_o and_o exact_o extend_v no_o less_o than_o be_v the_o conscience_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n beside_o what_o we_o say_v on_o this_o before_o anent_o have_v clearness_n from_o the_o word_n in_o the_o judgement_n and_o harken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n right_o inform_v we_o shall_v instance_n the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o a_o
christian_a walk_n according_a to_o conscience_n 〈◊〉_d these_o seven_o particular_n 1._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v have_v a_o respect_n to_o all_o sort_n of_o duty_n in_o word_n thought_n and_o action_n for_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v for_o a_o idle_a word_n and_o for_o a_o sinful_a thought_n to_o simon_n act_v 8._o 22._o say_v the_o apostle_n pray_v god_n if_o perhaps_o the_o thought_n of_o thy_o hearâ—_n may_v be_v forgive_v thou_o which_o say_v that_o sinful_a thought_n may_v have_v influence_n to_o 〈◊〉_d the_o conscience_n and_o that_o a_o man_n who_o wouâ—d_v keep_v peace_n in_o his_o conscience_n shall_v dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o none_o of_o these_o 2._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a tâ—_n conscience_n must_v extend_v duty_n to_o all_o particular_n oâ—_n everâ—_n kind_n to_o every_o thought_n every_o word_n and_o every_o action_n â—or_a according_a as_o conscience_n when_o in_o case_n be_v please_v or_o displease_v in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o in_o public_a in_o private_a in_o secret_a in_o 〈◊〉_d or_o small_a duty_n or_o â—ins_n so_o it_o will_v accuse_v or_o excuse_v so_o then_o as_o conscience_n regard_v alâ—_n duty_n and_o kind_n of_o they_o so_o it_o regard_v every_o particular_a of_o every_o kind_n 3._o a_o man_n that_o will_v walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n must_v aim_v in_o his_o christian_a walk_n at_o the_o high_a degree_n in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o though_o he_o come_v short_a yet_o he_o must_v not_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o his_o short-coming_a in_o any_o of_o they_o for_o instance_n as_o he_o must_v love_v god_n so_o he_o must_v endeavour_v to_o love_v he_o with_o all_o his_o strength_n soul_n and_o mind_n and_o as_o he_o must_v be_v holy_a so_o he_o must_v aim_v to_o perfect_a holiness_n and_o to_o purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a in_o this_o respect_n the_o least_o defect_n will_v give_v conscience_n ground_n of_o a_o challenge_n and_o if_o he_o in_o the_o least_o but_o indirect_o dispense_v with_o himself_o in_o it_o it_o will_v breed_v a_o quarrel_n 4._o walk_v according_o to_o conscience_n tie_v a_o man_n to_o be_v in_o this_o aim_n and_o design_n always_o so_o as_o it_o allow_v of_o no_o intermission_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o study_v holiness_n in_o this_o or_o that_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o not_o in_o another_o or_o under_o the_o cross_n and_o not_o in_o prosperity_n but_o as_o the_o word_n be_v here_o in_o the_o tâ—xt_n he_o be_v always_o to_o exercise_v himself_o in_o this_o study_n and_o though_o a_o man_n shall_v live_v many_o year_n with_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n if_o he_o begin_v at_o last_o though_o iâ—_n be_v but_o now_o and_o then_o to_o take_v undue_a liberty_n conscience_n will_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o challenge_n for_o it_o because_o the_o word_n the_o superior_a of_o conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o it_o 5._o to_o walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n extend_v itself_o to_o all_o circumstance_n and_o qualification_n of_o duty_n it_o look_v not_o only_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v good_a but_o that_o it_o be_v spiritual_o prosecute_v in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o it_o will_v look_v to_o the_o man_n aim_n that_o it_o be_v single_a and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o will_v find_v fault_n it_o will_v look_v to_o his_o manner_n of_o do_v whether_o he_o be_v spiritual_a lively_a tender_a zealous_a etc._n etc._n in_o what_o he_o do_v and_o it_o will_v look_v from_o what_o principle_n he_o act_v from_o the_o strength_n of_o grace_n or_o from_o a_o gift_n from_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o from_o christ_n and_o it_o will_v look_v to_o what_o be_v his_o end_n or_o aim_v as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v whether_o he_o be_v bring_v forth_o fruit_n to_o himself_o or_o to_o god_n whether_o his_o end_n be_v to_o please_v man_n and_o to_o have_v their_o approbation_n and_o applause_n or_o to_o glorify_v god_n and_o to_o approve_v to_o he_o whether_o it_o be_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o to_o honour_n god_n conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o these_o for_o sound_v its_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v and_o in_o this_o it_o differ_v from_o all_o court_n among_o man_n it_o will_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v where_o they_o will_v absolve_v &_o contra_fw-la 6._o conscience_n will_v put_v a_o man_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o all_o the_o mean_n opportunity_n and_o help_n whereby_o holiness_n may_v be_v further_v and_o if_o a_o man_n come_v short_a in_o the_o use_n of_o any_o mean_a it_o will_v put_v he_o to_o run_v the_o back_n trade_n as_o it_o be_v and_o to_o take_v with_o the_o guilt_n it_o will_v say_v man_n whither_o may_v thou_o not_o have_v have_v more_o knowledge_n have_v have_v so_o many_o opportunity_n to_o hear_v and_o learn_v have_v have_v such_o and_o such_o minister_n and_o christian_a friend_n to_o advise_v with_o and_o to_o be_v instruct_v by_o as_o the_o apostle_n have_v it_o heb._n 5._o 12._o you_o may_v have_v be_v teacher_n of_o other_o by_o reason_n of_o time_n and_o mean_n and_o yet_o you_o have_v need_n to_o be_v teach_v the_o first_o principle_n etc._n etc._n to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n it_o be_v necessary_a to_o use_v every_o mean_a to_o further_o we_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o to_o attain_v to_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o 7._o conscience_n will_v look_v especial_o to_o what_o use_n we_o make_v of_o our_o holiness_n and_o to_o what_o we_o lie_v before_o conscience_n to_o answer_v its_o challenge_n whether_o we_o bring_v our_o good_a mind_n our_o prayer_n external_n performance_n and_o our_o follow_v of_o ordinance_n to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o and_o to_o silence_v the_o challenge_n and_o quench_v the_o fire_n to_o say_v so_o of_o conscience_n or_o whether_o we_o bring_v the_o blood_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v if_o we_o compare_v heb._n 10._o vers_fw-la 2._o with_o vers_n 22._o and_o heb._n 9_o vers_fw-la 9_o with_o vers_n 14._o we_o will_v find_v this_o latter_a way_n and_o â—ot_n the_o former_a to_o be_v the_o only_a safe_a way_n these_o sacrifice_n that_o be_v offer_v year_n by_o year_n continual_o can_v never_o make_v the_o the_o comer_n thereunto_o perfect_a but_o have_v a_o highpriest_n over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n we_o may_v draw_v near_o with_o a_o true_a heart_n and_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n have_v our_o heart_n sprinkle_v from_o a_o evil_a conscience_n and_o our_o body_n wash_v with_o pure_a water_n these_o gift_n and_o sacrifice_n can_v not_o make_v they_o that_o do_v the_o service_n perfect_a as_o pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n but_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n and_o though_o the_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v a_o believer_n where_o there_o be_v defect_n in_o the_o foâ—mer_a rule_n yet_o it_o be_v quiet_v and_o satisfy_v where_o there_o be_v serious_a and_o suitable_a application_n make_v to_o and_o of_o the_o suffering_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o the_o redeemer_n iâ—_n so_o be_v he_o dispense_v not_o with_o himself_o as_o to_o his_o short-coming_a in_o they_o and_o if_o the_o use_n that_o he_o make_v of_o his_o holiness_n in_o the_o large_a extent_n and_o high_a degree_n of_o it_o be_v not_o to_o found_v his_o righteousness_n thereon_o but_o to_o honour_n god_n thereby_o in_o gratitude_n to_o he_o to_o edify_v other_o and_o to_o evidence_n to_o himself_o the_o soundness_n and_o reality_n of_o his_o believe_a and_o gracious_a state_n this_o show_v the_o vast_a extent_n of_o holiness_n and_o what_o it_o be_v that_o man_n be_v call_v to_o and_o thereby_o we_o may_v also_o see_v that_o many_o sad_o mistake_v religion_n and_o what_o that_o perfect_a walk_n be_v that_o a_o christian_n ought_v to_o have_v before_o god_n and_o we_o may_v say_v on_o the_o whole_a if_o this_o be_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o conscience_n then_o certain_o not_o many_a but_o very_o few_o walk_n according_a to_o â—t_a which_o be_v a_o lamentation_n and_o shall_v be_v for_o a_o lamentation_n the_o second_o use_n be_v â—or_a trial_n if_o a_o believer_n when_o he_o be_v in_o case_n and_o right_a will_v have_v it_o for_o his_o exercise_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o toward_a man_n than_o this_o will_v be_v a_o difference_v mark_n betwixt_o a_o believer_n and_o a_o un-believer_n the_o one_o single_o aim_v and_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o to_o walk_v so_o as_o in_o nothing_o he_o may_v offend_v his_o conscience_n the_o other_o haâ—h_v no_o such_o design_n
short_a in_o his_o duty_n which_o will_v quite_o mar_v a_o legal_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n or_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o legal_a good_a conscience_n thus_o paul_n have_v a_o good_a conscience_n rom._n 7._o 22._o even_o when_o he_o be_v wrestle_v against_o sin_n and_o cry_v out_o in_o the_o fight_n o_o miserable_a man_n that_o â—_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o the_o body_n of_o this_o death_n for_o he_o find_v himself_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n after_o the_o inward_a man_n and_o that_o his_o design_n be_v to_o be_v honest_a and_o single_a for_o god_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o challenge_n of_o conscience_n as_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v ground_n for_o it_o that_o affeâ—eth_v and_o trouble_v he_o when_o he_o think_v with_o himself_o what_o may_v i_o and_o must_v i_o be_v before_o god_n when_o conscience_n take_v notice_n of_o so_o many_o thing_n to_o be_v amiss_o in_o i_o it_o be_v from_o this_o ground_n i_o say_v that_o paul_n comfort_v himself_o that_o he_o allow_v not_o himself_o in_o that_o which_o he_o do_v and_o reckon_v his_o evangelical_o good_a conscience_n and_o his_o sincerity_n to_o be_v his_o renew_a part_n and_o as_o such_o side_v and_o take_v part_n with_o it_o and_o condemn_v the_o un_fw-we renew_v part_n a_o four_o property_n or_o character_n be_v take_v from_o a_o believer_n walk_v in_o reference_n to_o his_o challenge_n this_o be_v not_o the_o mark_n that_o he_o want_v challenge_n but_o it_o be_v draw_v from_o the_o influence_n that_o challenge_v have_v on_o he_o which_o comprehend_v three_o different_a character_n 1._o a_o gospel_n good_a conscience_n take_v quick_o and_o easy_o with_o a_o challenge_n and_o be_v soon_o trouble_a and_o melt_v 2._o it_o be_v make_v quick_o to_o loath_a and_o conâ—emn_v itself_o for_o sin_n and_o so_o conscience_n and_o the_o man_n agree_v well_o together_o when_o conscience_n say_v to_o he_o thou_o be_v a_o sinner_n thou_o arâ—_n lose_v justice_n must_v be_v satisfy_v and_o thou_o can_v not_o do_v it_o he_o say_v so_o likewise_o 3._o when_o challenge_v put_v yet_o further_o at_o he_o and_o pursue_v he_o yet_o hard_o and_o close_a the_o good_a conscience_n make_v he_o â—ee_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o set_v he_o a_o seek_v of_o pardon_n from_o god_n in_o the_o court_n of_o grace_n when_o the_o man_n be_v some_o way_n condemn_v in_o the_o court_n of_o his_o own_o conscience_n and_o then_o he_o obtain_v peace_n even_o in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n for_o when_o god_n speak_v peace_n in_o and_o through_o jesus_n christ_n the_o conscience_n also_o speak_v peace_n and_o thus_o though_o the_o man_n have_v not_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o a_o law_n sense_n as_o i_o say_v before_o yet_o in_o a_o gospel-sense_n he_o have_v and_o he_o mind_v to_o keep_v friendship_n with_o god_n and_o with_o his_o conscience_n though_o he_o can_v quiet_v pacify_v and_o satisfy_v it_o in_o a_o legal_a way_n yet_o in_o a_o gospel_n way_n he_o may_v and_o this_o be_v even_o it_o that_o the_o saint_n have_v in_o their_o appeal_n to_o their_o conscience_n for_o the_o great_a ground_n of_o their_o peace_n viz._n the_o sincerity_n of_o their_o practice_n and_o their_o flee_v to_o christ_n blood_n to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o quiet_v their_o conscience_n in_o the_o crowd_n of_o challenge_n for_o their_o short_a come_n and_o fail_n in_o practice_n and_o that_o very_o warrantable_o from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whoever_o sincere_o take_v this_o way_n though_o they_o have_v challenge_n of_o conscience_n they_o have_v yet_o notwithstanding_o a_o good_a conscience_n such_o a_o conscience_n challenge_v by_o the_o law_n yet_o absolve_v by_o the_o gospel_n challenge_v on_o account_n of_o the_o rebellion_n of_o the_o law_n in_o the_o member_n and_o yet_o absolve_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o law_n in_o the_o mind_n it_o condemn_v the_o man_n as_o loathsome_a in_o himself_o and_o in_o his_o own_o duty_n and_o righteousness_n and_o yet_o absolve_v he_o as_o sound_v his_o peace_n on_o christ_n and_o sink_v and_o put_v to_o silence_v all_o challenge_n and_o accusation_n in_o that_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v that_o speak_v blood_n that_o have_v a_o cry_n to_o outcry_n the_o loud_a cry_n of_o the_o most_o clamorous_a and_o guilty_a conscience_n and_o what_o can_v be_v just_o say_v against_o this_o since_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v perfect_a and_o god_n promise_v faithful_a and_o christ_n blood_n of_o force_n and_o efficacy_n to_o quiet_a and_o give_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v hâ—re_o may_v not_o a_o natural_a un-renewed_n person_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n or_o how_o far_o may_v his_o conscience_n be_v good_a and_o wherein_o lie_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o his_o good_a conscience_n and_o the_o believer_n good_a conscience_n i_o know_v this_o be_v a_o piece_n of_o the_o spiritual_a pride_n and_o vanity_n of_o many_o of_o you_o to_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o real_o it_o will_v make_v a_o tender_a conscience_n some_o way_n to_o loath_a to_o hear_v you_o speak_v so_o confident_o of_o it_o i_o shall_v therefore_o in_o the_o first_o place_n answer_n to_o the_o question_n how_o far_o the_o conscience_n of_o a_o natural_a man_n or_o a_o hypocriâ—e_n may_v be_v good_a and_o than_o show_v you_o how_o and_o wherein_o it_o be_v defective_a and_o what_o be_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o it_o and_o the_o believer_n good_a conscience_n for_o the_o first_o i_o will_v say_v this_o in_o general_a in_o the_o first_o place_n that_o we_o be_v not_o now_o speak_v of_o slâ—epie_a err_a dead_a and_o harden_a conscience_n the_o testimony_n of_o these_o be_v little_a worth_n neither_o be_v every_o thing_n conscience_n that_o many_o man_n think_v to_o be_v so_o conscience_n must_v act_v according_a to_o the_o word_n else_o it_o withdraw_v itself_o from_o that_o due_a subordination_n it_o stand_v in_o to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o law_n conscience_n be_v oblige_v to_o abide_v and_o stand_v by_o god_n testimony_n but_o god_n be_v not_o oblige_v to_o stand_v by_o its_o testimony_n we_o will_v therefore_o beware_v of_o mistake_a conscience_n more_o particular_o in_o the_o 2d_o place_n a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v something_o like_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o may_v come_v the_o length_n of_o these_o four_o step_n according_a to_o his_o light_n â—_o he_o may_v have_v a_o negative_a good_a conscience_n that_o be_v a_o conscience_n which_o do_v not_o actual_o challenge_v he_o yea_o a_o conscience_n that_o have_v no_o gross_a thing_n to_o challenge_v he_o for_o he_o be_v it_o may_v be_v no_o murderer_n no_o adulterer_n he_o defign_v no_o oppression_n nor_o deceit_n in_o his_o deal_v etc._n etc._n and_o on_o this_o ground_n he_o possible_o think_v that_o he_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n though_o he_o have_v no_o positive_a testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n all_o this_o while_n 2._o he_o may_v someway_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a act_n in_o respect_n of_o be_v free_a of_o a_o challenge_n on_o account_n of_o a_o wrong_a design_n of_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o moral_a sincerity_n and_o ingenuity_n such_o as_o be_v in_o these_o man_n that_o follow_v absolom_n in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o in_o abimelech_n who_o in_o take_v abraham_n wife_n mean_v no_o evil_a noâ—_n any_o thing_n but_o what_o be_v lawful_a and_o therefore_o he_o say_v that_o in_o the_o integrity_n of_o his_o heart_n â—e_n do_v it_o that_o be_v he_o have_v a_o moral_a honest_a design_n and_o be_v free_a from_o ground_n of_o challenge_n about_o what_o other_o may_v have_v be_v ready_a to_o charge_v he_o with_o as_o to_o that_o action_n 3_o he_o may_v come_v a_o great_a length_n as_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o second_o table_n of_o the_o law_n so_o as_o he_o may_v not_o wrong_v his_o neighbour_n in_o word_n nor_o deed_n he_o may_v design_v no_o man_n hurt_n he_o may_v wish_v evil_a to_o no_o man_n thus_o very_o probable_o it_o be_v with_o that_o pharisee_fw-mi who_o come_v to_o christ_n and_o say_v all_o these_o have_v i_o keep_v from_o my_o youth_n the_o poor_a man_n speak_v as_o he_o think_v not_o know_v the_o spiritual_a meaning_n and_o extent_n of_o the_o law_n therefore_o when_o he_o be_v bid_v sell_v all_o and_o gâ—ve_v to_o the_o poor_a he_o go_v away_o grieve_v he_o have_v no_o gross_a sinister_a design_n it_o be_v also_o say_v that_o christ_n love_v he_o or_o pity_v he_o as_o a_o civil_a man_n and_o it_o be_v indeed_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o mere_o civil_a man_n so_o much_o magnify_v and_o cry_v up_o their_o conscience_n and_o place_n all_o
show_v 1_o cor._n 19_o 19_o 7ly_n their_o error_n or_o mistake_v may_v be_v continue_v in_o long_a and_o believer_n may_v not_o only_o fall_v hasty_o or_o on_o the_o sudden_a in_o a_o error_n of_o judgement_n or_o into_o a_o wrong_a practice_n but_o they_o may_v live_v and_o lie_v long_o in_o it_o it_o be_v like_a that_o of_o job_n friend_n end_v not_o in_o a_o day_n nor_o in_o a_o month_n and_o that_o of_o the_o father_n be_v for_o many_o year_n together_o and_o that_o also_o of_o the_o apostle_n be_v for_o several_a yea_o they_o may_v continue_v so_o long_o that_o they_o may_v die_v in_o it_o and_o never_o come_v to_o so_o much_o clearness_n as_o once_o to_o know_v that_o they_o be_v wrong_a though_o i_o say_v not_o that_o they_o may_v die_v in_o such_o a_o error_n and_o mistake_n un-pardoned_n yet_o they_o may_v die_v in_o unclearness_n as_o to_o the_o thing_n be_v a_o error_n yet_o without_o prejudice_n to_o their_o salvation_n have_v a_o interpretative_a and_o virtual_a repentance_n of_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v wrong_n and_o sinful_a in_o they_o and_o so_o of_o all_o among_o the_o rest_n as_o the_o patriarch_n and_o many_o believer_n in_o paul_n time_n go_v to_o heaven_n who_o yet_o very_o probable_o do_v die_v without_o come_v to_o be_v clear_a in_o that_o particular_a wherein_o they_o be_v mistake_v or_o differ_v from_o other_o who_o be_v in_o the_o right_n shall_v we_o think_v that_o two_o godly_a man_n live_v and_o die_v in_o some_o difference_n of_o judgement_n about_o somewhat_o not_o necessary_a â—o_o salvation_n wherein_o yet_o the_o one_o of_o they_o must_v be_v wrong_a die_v not_o well_o and_o in_o the_o lord_n for_o all_o that_o god_n forbid_v neither_o can_v there_o be_v any_o reason_n give_v why_o they_o may_v not_o die_v in_o that_o wherein_o they_o live_v so_o long_o though_o indeed_o at_o death_n they_o may_v come_v to_o be_v more_o impartial_a in_o weigh_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o difference_n and_o mistake_v 8_o this_o may_v be_v for_o some_o generation_n as_o be_v that_o mistake_n of_o the_o patriarch_n and_o so_o it_o may_v continue_v not_o only_o in_o man_n own_o life-time_n but_o in_o after_o generation_n the_o mistake_n may_v be_v propagat_n as_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n some_o of_o their_o debate_n be_v not_o soon_o altogether_o hush_v and_o wear_v out_o 3_o these_o thing_n be_v wonderful_a in_o themselves_o we_o shall_v come_v now_o to_o inquire_v a_o little_a into_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o and_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1._o some_o speak_v sinful_a infirmity_n in_o man_n even_o godly_a man_n 2_o other_o speak_v sovereignty_n in_o the_o holy_a god_n for_o the_o first_o sort_n that_o speak_v infirmity_n in_o we_o and_o be_v culpable_a cause_n of_o the_o thing_n they_o may_v be_v these_o 1._o ignorance_n and_o unclearness_n in_o the_o understanding_n and_o judgement_n for_o the_o most_o eminent_a believer_n in_o his_o best_a condition_n know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o as_o his_o judgement_n be_v mistake_v so_o ready_o will_v his_o conscience_n be_v which_o accuse_v or_o excuse_v according_a as_o the_o judgement_n be_v inform_v conscience_n pre-requireth_a and_o some_o way_n presupposeth_a knowledge_n and_o therefore_o the_o man_n that_o want_v knowledge_n be_v call_v weak_a so_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o weak_a brother_n be_v speak_v of_o rom._n 14._o and_o 1_o cor._n 8._o that_o be_v weak_a through_o want_n of_o knowledge_n 2_o the_o best_a and_o most_o eminent_a believer_n have_v a_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n in_o they_o and_o therefore_o be_v in_o hazard_n and_o in_o a_o manner_n ready_a to_o side_n with_o and_o entertain_v a_o mistake_n if_o believer_n be_v free_a of_o corruption_n it_o may_v be_v think_v impossible_a that_o they_o shall_v thus_o err_v but_o that_o will_v not_o be_v till_o the_o soul_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o body_n so_o long_o as_o corruption_n remain_v there_o will_v be_v a_o hazard_n and_o readiness_n in_o so_o far_o and_o in_o some_o thing_n to_o mistake_v and_o to_o follow_v the_o misguide_n of_o a_o misinform_v conscience_n 3_o believer_n be_v sometime_o rash_a and_o hasty_a in_o draw_v a_o sudden_a conclusion_n and_o too_o negligent_a in_o previous_a try_v take_v that_o for_o god_n mind_n which_o be_v not_o so_o indeed_o as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o samuel_n who_o take_v eliaâ—_n for_o god_n anoint_a and_o in_o nathan_n who_o approve_v of_o david_n resolution_n to_o build_v the_o temple_n not_o only_o as_o it_o be_v a_o good_a work_n in_o itself_o but_o as_o his_o present_a duty_n much_o of_o their_o error_n flow_v from_o haâ—e_n as_o he_o say_v in_o another_o case_n psal._n 116._o v_o 11._o i_o say_v in_o my_o haste_n all_o man_n be_v liar_n 4_o there_o may_v much_o of_o this_o evil_n arise_v from_o the_o suffering_n of_o a_o prejudice_n to_o sit_v down_o or_o settle_v when_o a_o believer_n be_v prejudge_v he_o may_v hear_v many_o thing_n and_o not_o take_v they_o well_o up_o so_o the_o disciple_n have_v drink_v in_o a_o prejudice_n at_o the_o cross_n and_o therefore_o when_o christ_n speak_v of_o suffer_v to_o they_o it_o be_v say_v they_o understand_v he_o not_o 5_o believer_n be_v sometime_o un-aware_a engage_v in_o a_o conclusion_n that_o byass_v their_o light_n and_o make_v their_o conscience_n partial_a as_o in_o search_v and_o find_v out_o what_o may_v clear_v they_o so_o in_o seek_v out_o ground_n to_o maintain_v their_o opinion_n by_o thus_o job_n friend_n do_v first_o apprehend_v and_o take_v up_o job_n to_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n and_o according_o think_v it_o their_o duty_n to_o bear_v in_o the_o conviction_n of_o it_o upon_o he_o and_o to_o maintain_v that_o conclusion_n they_o wrest_v god_n providence_n and_o dispensation_n not_o against_o their_o present_a light_n nor_o it_o may_v be_v from_o a_o former_a error_n so_o much_o as_o from_o the_o prejudice_n they_o have_v drink_v in_o 6_o believer_n may_v think_v themselves_o to_o be_v right_a when_o they_o be_v wrong_v because_o of_o a_o general_a custom_n or_o opinion_n of_o such_o a_o thing_n among_o other_o believer_n take_v such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v the_o judgement_n of_o other_o they_o engage_v in_o it_o without_o trial_n or_o debate_n which_o be_v give_v as_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o patriarch_n their_o so_o long_o continue_v in_o polygamy_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v become_v customary_a and_o habitual_a 7_o beside_o the_o instance_n we_o give_v the_o last_o day_n which_o may_v also_o be_v reason_n believer_n out_o of_o their_o respect_n and_o love_n to_o a_o good_a end_n may_v think_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o mid_n be_v good_a and_o warrantable_a without_o so_o particular_a examination_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o mid_n especial_o if_o it_o be_v not_o gross_o or_o manifest_o sinful_a because_o they_o think_v that_o such_o a_o end_n be_v warrantable_a as_o it_o may_v indeed_o be_v and_o yet_o every_o mid_n be_v not_o so_o though_o when_o the_o end_n be_v good_a the_o midse_n be_v often_o with_o too_o little_a care_n search_n and_o solicitude_n adventure_v on_o as_o nathan_n think_v it_o a_o warrantable_a thing_n to_o build_v a_o temple_n to_o god_n and_o so_o indeed_o it_o be_v and_o so_o question_v not_o but_o that_o it_o be_v david_n duty_n and_o here_o he_o be_v mistake_v for_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o reason_n they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v draw_v from_o god_n sovereignty_n who_o have_v some_o sovereign_a and_o holy_a end_n and_o design_n in_o such_o a_o dispensation_n viz._n in_o suffer_a believer_n to_o be_v and_o abide_v long_o under_o their_o mistake_n as_o 1._o it_o may_v be_v so_o order_v to_o humble_a all_o flesh_n and_o to_o make_v all_o know_v their_o nothingness_n and_o to_o learn_v that_o lesson_n which_o be_v teach_v isa._n 2._o ult_n ceass_n you_o from_o man_n who_o breath_n be_v in_o his_o nostril_n for_o wherein_o be_v he_o to_o be_v account_v of_o it_o will_v seem_v that_o believer_n may_v be_v lay_v weight_n upon_o and_o lipned_a to_o if_o any_o may_v be_v so_o but_o all_o flesh_n be_v grass_n say_v the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o hold_v true_a in_o some_o respect_n even_o of_o believer_n as_o well_o as_o of_o other_o this_o preach_v and_o proclaim_v man_n infirmity_n when_o most_o eminent_a believer_n be_v not_o exeme_v from_o fall_v into_o mistake_n and_o from_o continue_v therein_o 2_o it_o may_v â—e_v so_o order_v to_o make_v all_o other_o walk_v in_o fear_n and_o to_o study_v watchfulness_n the_o more_o and_o withal_o to_o lippen_n less_o to_o themselves_o and_o more_o to_o god_n these_o thing_n say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 10_o speak_v before_o of_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o god_n profess_v people_n from_o every_o degree_n whereof_o it_o be_v hard_a to_o say_v that_o the_o godly_a themselves_o
up_o to_o strong_a delusion_n to_o believe_v lie_n because_o they_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o love_n why_o may_v it_o not_o also_o be_v just_a with_o he_o judicial_o to_o harden_v they_o in_o their_o unjust_a prejudice_n who_o without_o all_o reason_n take_v up_o and_o entertain_v the_o same_o against_o godliness_n and_o the_o godly_a by_o suffer_v some_o of_o they_o to_o slide_v sometime_o into_o error_n and_o mistake_n by_o which_o they_o come_v in_o his_o righteous_a judgement_n to_o be_v so_o â—ar_o plague_v as_o to_o think_v that_o now_o they_o have_v reason_n for_o their_o prejudice_n and_o iâ—_n may_v be_v to_o say_v we_o think_v they_o always_o to_o be_v such_o and_o such_o person_n and_o now_o we_o see_v and_o find_v they_o to_o be_v so_o who_o 〈◊〉_d more_o weight_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o then_o on_o his_o word_n and_o who_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o cry_v more_o out_o against_o a_o infirmity_n in_o a_o godly_a person_n then_o in_o other_o and_o more_o than_o they_o can_v be_v prevail_v with_o to_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o their_o grace_n how_o many_o a_o corrupt_a and_o wicked_a man_n have_v justify_v and_o maintain_v his_o own_o bad_a practice_n from_o some_o fail_n in_o the_o saint_n not_o to_o excuse_v their_o sin_n but_o rather_o thereby_o to_o blind_v himself_o and_o to_o put_v out_o his_o own_o eye_n more_o in_o the_o four_o place_n according_a to_o the_o method_n propose_v take_v a_o word_n or_o two_o of_o use_n and_o 1._o may_v not_o this_o instruct_v we_o that_o all_o flesh_n be_v grass_n that_o when_o we_o look_v to_o ourselves_o we_o shall_v be_v humble_a and_o that_o there_o be_v need_n great_a need_n of_o fear_n and_o tremble_a in_o our_o christian_a walk_n whoever_o they_o be_v that_o dare_v to_o abuse_v this_o doctrine_n anent_o the_o saint_n infirmity_n mistake_n and_o error_n to_o foster_v themselves_o the_o more_o secure_o in_o their_o liberty_n of_o sin_v god_n shall_v if_o continue_v in_o one_o day_n make_v it_o turn_v to_o the_o aggravation_n of_o their_o guilt_n and_o to_o the_o heighten_v of_o their_o judgement_n and_o however_o for_o the_o time_n they_o heighten_v their_o sin_n exceed_o in_o propose_v the_o saint_n fault_n to_o follow_v they_o and_o not_o their_o grace_n and_o virtue_n whereas_o this_o be_v the_o genuine_a and_o kind_o use_v that_o all_o shall_v make_v of_o they_o to_o be_v watchful_a to_o walk_v in_o â—ear_n aâ—d_v to_o take_v heed_n lest_o we_o also_o fall_v consider_v that_o if_o it_o have_v be_v do_v â—o_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n what_o may_v we_o fear_v who_o in_o comparison_n be_v but_o dry_a tree_n if_o the_o lord_n shall_v leave_v we_o as_o just_o he_o may_v to_o follow_v our_o own_o council_n it_o will_v become_v we_o to_o wonder_v that_o we_o go_v not_o wrong_a and_o further_o wrong_v and_o to_o look_v well_o that_o we_o be_v not_o vain_a of_o our_o own_o stand_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o take_v every_o thing_n to_o be_v right_a where_o of_o for_o the_o time_n we_o may_v have_v a_o sorâ—_n of_o persuasion_n neither_o that_o which_o many_o good_a people_n may_v think_v to_o be_v right_a god_n have_v give_v we_o another_o rule_n that_o shall_v be_v look_v to_o and_o walk_v by_o as_o sovereign_a â—nd_n infallible_o regulate_v according_a to_o which_o we_o shall_v regulate_v our_o own_o and_o the_o conscience_n and_o practice_n of_o other_o therefore_o 3_o learn_v hence_o so_o much_o the_o more_o accurat_o and_o exact_o to_o put_v every_o thing_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n that_o we_o may_v see_v whither_o it_o be_v so_o in_o very_a deed_n as_o conscience_n dictate_v by_o all_o mean_n let_v conscience_n be_v lay_v to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n let_v we_o betake_v ourselves_o and_o our_o conscience_n to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n and_o if_o it_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o these_o it_o be_v because_o there_o be_v no_o light_n in_o it_o at_o least_o in_o so_o far_o and_o if_o even_a believer_n may_v thus_o err_v and_o mistake_v o_o how_o much_o more_o and_o more_o sad_o may_v other_o who_o sleep_v on_o in_o their_o security_n without_o fear_n of_o be_v mistake_v and_o of_o go_v wrong_n in_o matter_n of_o great_a and_o most_o last_a moment_n let_v be_v in_o lesser_a one_o put_v nothing_o serious_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o will_v yet_o notwithstanding_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n the_o four_o use_n serve_v to_o teach_v believer_n and_o all_o of_o you_o that_o you_o have_v need_n to_o walk_v near_o god_n and_o in_o close_o and_o constant_a dependence_n on_o he_o not_o simple_o lipn_v or_o trust_v to_o your_o own_o council_n or_o conscience_n but_o to_o he_o for_o direction_n and_o guide_n the_o 5_o use_v serve_v to_o exhort_v believer_n to_o be_v very_o thankful_a and_o to_o take_v it_o for_o a_o great_a and_o singular_a mercy_n when_o their_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o for_o sin_n and_o strike_v in_o close_o with_o that_o which_o be_v the_o spirit_n work_v john_n 16._o 8._o i_o will_v say_v christ_n send_v the_o spirit_n and_o he_o shall_v convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n o_o but_o be_v it_o a_o merciful_a profitable_a and_o comfortable_a thing_n when_o god_n help_v you_o impartial_o to_o search_v out_o sin_n to_o hear_v the_o conscience_n it_o be_v impartial_a verdict_n of_o it_o and_o to_o be_v kind_o and_o deep_o humble_v for_o it_o and_o to_o flee_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o sprinkle_v for_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o use_n 6_o see_v here_o the_o necessity_n of_o know_v god_n mind_n better_o and_o of_o understand_v his_o word_n better_o otherwise_o we_o may_v err_v and_o go_v wrong_n and_o not_o know_v it_o let_v i_o say_v in_o a_o word_n that_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o reach_v and_o attain_v the_o scope_n of_o this_o text_n if_o we_o study_v not_o to_o know_v god_n word_n and_o his_o mind_n in_o his_o word_n better_o the_o ignorance_n that_o be_v among_o we_o may_v prove_v a_o great_a rise_n occasion_n and_o cause_n of_o many_o sad_a mistake_n and_o error_n if_o the_o lord_n in_o mercy_n prevent_v not_o let_v god_n bless_v this_o word_n and_o make_v it_o to_o have_v it_o be_v own_o use_n for_o our_o edification_n and_o warning_n sermon_n vi._n act_n 24._o 16._o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n the_o great_a scope_n of_o these_o word_n be_v to_o point_v out_o that_o holy_a precisness_n accuracy_n and_o circumspection_n which_o be_v in_o paul_n walk_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v in_o the_o walk_n of_o all_o christian_n and_o that_o be_v to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o men._n the_o doctrine_n that_o we_o insist_v on_o last_o be_v this_o that_o christian_n ought_v to_o endeavour_v so_o to_o walk_v that_o in_o nothing_o their_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o they_o and_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o use_n we_o propose_v four_n the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v for_o information_n and_o direction_n how_o to_o carry_v in_o a_o christian_a life_n and_o it_o be_v in_o a_o word_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o we_o may_v thwart_v our_o conscience_n either_o in_o ommit_v any_o duty_n or_o in_o commit_v any_o sin_n the_o second_o use_v be_v for_o trial_n as_o the_o word_n bear_v out_o paul_n attainment_n and_o his_o comfort_a himself_o on_o this_o ground_n that_o he_o always_o exercise_v himself_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n whence_o we_o show_v that_o it_o be_v a_o good_a mark_n of_o sincerity_n when_o a_o man_n be_v take_v up_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o several_a doubt_n and_o question_n be_v occasion_v in_o prosecute_a of_o this_o use_n which_o we_o endeavour_v to_o clear_v and_o answer_v but_o because_o we_o see_v that_o such_o question_n be_v almost_o endless_a and_o know_v not_o if_o it_o will_v be_v to_o your_o edification_n to_o propose_v more_o of_o they_o we_o have_v resolve_v to_o break_v they_o off_o abrupt_o and_o shall_v only_o speak_v somewhat_o in_o answer_n to_o a_o objection_n or_o question_v which_o can_v well_o be_v pass_v by_o and_o it_o be_v this_o can_v that_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n to_o endeavour_v to_o have_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n see_v even_o believer_n may_v often_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n how_o then_o i_o say_v can_v it_o be_v a_o mark_n of_o sincerity_n and_o of_o a_o sound_a believer_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o we_o shall_v first_o show_v how_o believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n 2._o how_o it_o be_v not_o
in-consistent_a with_o the_o doctrine_n nor_o with_o the_o use_n for_o the_o 1._o we_o will_v distinguish_v three_o thing_n in_o believer_n in_o reference_n to_o their_o conscience_n 1._o something_o wherein_o their_o conscience_n may_v just_o challenge_v they_o 2_o something_o that_o their_o conscience_n without_o ground_n may_v challenge_v they_o for_o 3_o something_o that_o may_v be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n which_o indeed_o be_v not_o by_o which_o the_o conscience_n may_v come_v to_o be_v mistake_v 1._o we_o say_v that_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n or_o case_n wherein_o upon_o just_a ground_n the_o believer_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v he_o and_o wherein_o he_o may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v a_o evil_a conscience_n as_o beside_o several_a other_o in_o these_o 1._o if_o we_o take_v it_o to_o be_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n that_o be_v not_o only_o silent_a and_o mute_a and_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o reprover_n for_o even_o gross_a sin_n but_o also_o when_o waken_v just_o challenge_v accuse_v and_o condemn_v for_o they_o a_o believer_n may_v fall_v under_o it_o both_o way_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n and_o in_o david_n who_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n the_o first_o way_n when_o it_o be_v a_o sleep_n and_o the_o second_o way_n after_o it_o be_v waken_v though_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n consider_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o second_o way_n belong_v proper_o to_o this_o head_n 2_o if_o we_o look_v on_o one_fw-mi evil_a conscience_n as_o its_o restless_a disquiet_v and_o vex_v call_v evil_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o to_o wit_n as_o it_o speak_v evil_a so_o the_o believer_n may_v have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n in_o respect_n of_o particular_a act_n for_o which_o he_o be_v just_o challenge_v for_o he_o may_v thwart_v his_o light_n and_o may_v contract_v guilt_n and_o bring_v himself_o under_o the_o desert_n of_o wrath_n because_o of_o that_o guilt_n which_o bring_v on_o trouble_n at_o least_o inward_a in_o his_o mind_n and_o conscience_n if_o not_o outward_a also_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n after_o his_o adultery_n in_o peter_n when_o he_o deny_v christ_n and_o in_o many_o other_o certain_o as_o to_o such_o particular_a practice_n believer_n may_v be_v say_v to_o have_v one_fw-mi evil_n conscience_n 3_o if_o we_o consider_v a_o believer_n state_n and_o look_v upon_o conscience_n as_o speak_v his_o be_v in_o a_o evil_a state_n though_o doubtless_o it_o can_v warrantable_o charge_v he_o with_o nor_o challenge_v he_o for_o that_o nor_o can_v it_o have_v just_a ground_n to_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n that_o his_o state_n be_v evil_a yet_o it_o may_v very_o warrantable_o and_o on_o just_a ground_n be_v silent_a as_o to_o give_v he_o a_o positive_a testimony_n as_o to_o his_o good_a state_n when_o he_o have_v in_o such_o and_o such_o particular_n provoke_v god_n and_o cause_v he_o to_o hide_v his_o face_n as_o when_o david_n fall_v so_o foul_o his_o conscience_n may_v warrantable_o withdraw_v and_o its_o like_a do_v withdraw_v its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v his_o good_a state_n before_o god_n and_o though_o conscience_n here_o be_v in_o its_o duty_n in_o withhold_v its_o testimony_n from_o the_o believer_n while_o he_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yet_o as_o it_o do_v withhold_v it_o and_o so_o deprive_v he_o of_o the_o comfort_n result_v therefrom_o it_o may_v in_o so_o far_o be_v call_v a_o evil_a conscience_n to_o he_o though_o it_o be_v not_o in_o itself_o and_o sinful_o so_o 2_o the_o conscience_n may_v also_o challenge_v a_o believer_n for_o some_o thing_n without_o ground_n or_o unwarrantable_o which_o we_o may_v see_v beside_o other_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o conscience_n may_v charge_v a_o believer_n with_o be_v a_o hypocrite_n even_o as_o to_o his_o state_n when_o he_o be_v it_o may_v be_v much_o overcome_v with_o the_o power_n of_o unbelief_n and_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o sincerity_n much_o darken_v and_o see_v many_o thing_n very_o contrary_a thereto_o that_o may_v seem_v to_o speak_v his_o be_v out_o of_o christ_n when_o yet_o indeed_o â—e_n be_v in_o he_o the_o many_o sad_a plunge_n and_o difficulty_n that_o believer_n have_v fall_v into_o '_o wherein_n they_o have_v be_v puâ—_n to_o think_v so_o hardly_o of_o themselves_o and_o not_o against_o the_o present_a light_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n neither_o prove_v that_o conscience_n may_v speak_v so_o and_o so_o hardly_o to_o they_o concern_v their_o unsound_a and_o hypocritical_a state_n and_o yet_o without_o ground_n especial_o when_o it_o hold_v not_o at_o the_o negation_n or_o suspension_n of_o its_o comfortable_a testimony_n concern_v their_o gracious_a state_n but_o positive_o asseâ—eth_v the_o believer_n be_v in_o black_a nature_n still_o and_o â—o_o in_o a_o evil_n staâ—e_v 2dâ—y_n conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o that_o which_o be_v not_o sin_n and_o so_o for_o that_o which_o it_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o challenge_v for_o as_o we_o may_v see_v 1_o cor._n 8._o vers_fw-la 7._o compare_v with_o the_o penult_n vers_fw-la in_o the_o 7._o vers_fw-la the_o apostle_n say_v there_o be_v not_o in_o every_o man_n a_o like_a knowledge_n for_o some_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o idol_n eat_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n offer_v to_o a_o idol_n and_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v defile_v and_o vers_fw-la 12._o he_o say_v that_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a be_v wound_v their_o light_n be_v weak_a and_o suppose_v such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n when_o it_o be_v not_o so_o they_o be_v challenge_v by_o their_o coâ—cience_n without_o just_a ground_n thus_o it_o be_v very_o ordinary_o for_o young_a beginner_n in_o religion_n to_o be_v pierce_v and_o wound_v with_o challenge_n for_o many_o thing_n that_o these_o who_o be_v more_o strong_a and_o full_o grouâ—_n will_v not_o at_o all_o be_v trouble_v for_o neither_o have_v ground_n to_o be_v trouble_v for_o as_o these_o who_o can_v eat_v every_o â—ort_n of_o meat_n ask_v no_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n 3_o conscience_n may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n that_o have_v be_v pardon_v as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o pardon_v yea_o it_o may_v challenge_v for_o a_o sin_n the_o pardon_n whereof_o have_v be_v intimate_v as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o david_n and_o job_n who_o be_v pardon_v and_o yet_o under_o their_o affliction_n the_o sin_n of_o their_o youth_n do_v stare_v they_o in_o the_o face_n and_o the_o conscience_n will_v ready_o challenge_v for_o old_a iniquity_n though_o pardon_v either_o when_o believer_n break_v out_o into_o some_o new_a act_n of_o gross_a siâ—_n as_o we_o see_v in_o david_n case_n or_o when_o they_o be_v under_o some_o extraordinary_a and_o very_o sad_o circumstantiate_v dispensation_n of_o providence_n sore_o assault_v by_o tentation_n and_o unbelief_n cry_v loud_a as_o it_o be_v all_o be_v wrong_v there_o as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o measure_n with_o holy_a job._n 3_o we_o say_v that_o some_o thing_n may_v be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v not_o or_o we_o may_v mistake_v conscience_n and_o think_v that_o it_o speak_v so_o and_o so_o and_o do_v challenge_v when_o it_o do_v not_o speak_v so_o nor_o challenge_v which_o may_v be_v the_o reason_n of_o man_n suppose_v the_o conscience_n to_o be_v good_a when_o it_o be_v not_o or_o contrar_o and_o this_o come_v to_o pass_v especial_o in_o two_o case_n 1._o when_o our_o incâ—nation_n be_v thwart_v or_o our_o humour_n be_v to_o speak_v â—o_o grieve_v in_o which_o case_n melancholy_n or_o discontent_n or_o some_o other_o grief_n be_v ready_o take_v to_o be_v conscience_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o achab_n when_o he_o get_v not_o the_o vine-yard_n of_o naboth_n he_o lay_v himself_o down_o on_o his_o bed_n and_o will_v eat_v no_o bread_n but_o it_o be_v not_o from_o any_o challenge_n of_o his_o conscience_n but_o because_o his_o inclination_n and_o humour_n be_v cross_v some_o degree_n of_o which_o may_v be_v find_v with_o believer_n 2_o when_o conscience_n speak_v only_o as_o to_o somewhat_o in_o part_n or_o only_o concern_v such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a and_o we_o draw_v a_o conclusion_n much_o broad_a then_o that_o which_o conscience_n do_v speak_v will_v bear_v as_o when_o it_o say_v to_o the_o believer_n in_o this_o or_o this_o particular_a thou_o be_v not_o right_a and_o he_o hence_o conclude_v that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o nothing_o and_o very_o ordinary_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o believer_n that_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a distinct_a and_o strong_a in_o their_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n when_o conscience_n say_v that_o such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v wrong_a they_o be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thing_n be_v wrong_a and_o nothing_o right_a because_o one_o thing_n be_v wrong_a so_o when_o conscience_n point_v forth_o such_o
to_o come_v at_o it_o if_o you_o shall_v incline_v it_o how_o can_v you_o shift_v this_o conviction_n conscience_n may_v be_v silent_a for_o a_o time_n but_o it_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v loud_a when_o sickness_n and_o the_o cross_n come_v as_o we_o see_v it_o do_v in_o josephs_n brethren_n in_o such_o a_o case_n many_o of_o you_o will_v find_v that_o conscience_n have_v be_v much_o slight_v o_o when_o death_n shall_v come_v and_o stair_n you_o in_o the_o face_n what_o a_o terrible_a thing_n will_v a_o guilty_a conscience_n be_v find_v then_o to_o be_v the_o terror_n of_o mad_a dog_n of_o wild_a boar_n of_o felrce_a lion_n and_o tiger_n will_v not_o be_v so_o terrible_a as_o a_o evil_a conscience_n will_v be_v when_o awaken_v and_o have_v death_n at_o its_o back_n nay_o suppose_v that_o conscience_n shall_v not_o be_v awaken_v while_o you_o be_v alive_a and_o in_o this_o world_n but_o that_o you_o shall_v slip_v and_o sleep_v away_o like_a lamb_n have_v no_o band_n in_o your_o death_n and_o that_o you_o shall_v die_v applaud_v of_o all_o man_n yet_o what_o will_v you_o do_v with_o your_o conscience_n or_o how_o will_v you_o stand_v before_o it_o when_o you_o shall_v be_v sist_v before_o god_n tribunal_n and_o when_o the_o book_n shall_v be_v lay_v open_a be_v there_o not_o many_o now_o in_o hell_n who_o if_o we_o can_v hear_v their_o language_n will_v very_o ready_o bid_v we_o beware_v to_o thwart_v with_o our_o conscience_n and_o to_o make_v it_o our_o enemy_n wo_n to_o they_o that_o take_v a_o evil_a conscience_n with_o they_o to_o their_o grave_n it_o will_v be_v a_o worm_n that_o will_v gnaw_v eternal_o and_o a_o inward_a poison_n and_o venom_n sting_a burn_a and_o inflame_v the_o very_a bowel_n as_o it_o be_v and_o all_o that_o be_v within_o the_o man_n beyond_o what_o be_v here_o conceivable_a we_o will_v therefore_o earnest_o beseech_v and_o obtest_v you_o sober_o to_o think_v on_o it_o for_o there_o be_v many_o of_o you_o who_o this_o challenge_n and_o reproof_n will_v reach_v and_o if_o we_o shall_v say_v otherwise_o to_o you_o who_o never_o have_v it_o for_o your_o aim_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o who_o be_v never_o exercise_v to_o nor_o serious_o take_v up_o with_o religion_n we_o will_v but_o cheat_v and_o beguile_v you_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o you_o can_v thwart_v with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o not_o also_o thwart_v with_o your_o own_o conscience_n or_o can_v you_o thwart_v with_o your_o light_n and_o your_o conscience_n be_v still_o silent_a or_o shall_v the_o have_v and_o keep_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v one_fw-mi exercise_n to_o paul_n and_o do_v you_o think_v to_o come_v so_o easy_o and_o without_o all_o labour_n to_o it_o these_o and_o other_o such_o be_v palpable_a evidence_n of_o a_o ill_a conscience_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a a_o good_a conscience_n that_o yield_v you_o peace_n and_o quietness_n in_o such_o a_o case_n but_o it_o be_v your_o deep_a security_n and_o your_o be_v regardless_o of_o whâ—_n conscience_n say_v that_o lull_v and_o rock_v you_o a_o sleep_n for_o the_o second_o how_o come_v this_o to_o pass_v or_o how_o can_v it_o be_v that_o man_n and_o woman_n thus_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n answer_n 1._o it_o need_v not_o at_o all_o to_o seem_v strange_a see_v god_n and_o his_o word_n be_v thwart_v with_o will_v they_o think_v we_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o conscience_n who_o stand_v not_o in_o awe_n of_o god_n and_o who_o do_v not_o lay_v weight_n on_o his_o word_n to_o regulate_v their_o conscience_n by_o it_o this_o be_v the_o great_a ground_n of_o people_n thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n and_o of_o their_o regardlesness_n of_o it_o even_o their_o not_o stand_v in_o awe_n of_o god_n two_o the_o most_o part_n never_o consider_v their_o obligation_n to_o conscience_n nor_o what_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o thwart_v with_o or_o of_o go_v cross_a to_o their_o conscience_n therefore_o it_o be_v that_o they_o care_v not_o what_o conscience_n say_v be_v there_o any_o considerable_a number_n of_o person_n who_o think_v that_o thwart_a their_o conscience_n be_v such_o a_o terrible_a thing_n at_o it_o be_v indeed_o and_o as_o one_o day_n it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v many_o have_v rather_o have_v a_o very_a little_a money_n in_o their_o hand_n than_o the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o regardlesness_n arise_v from_o the_o ignorance_n of_o it_o and_o of_o what_o great_a concernment_n it_o be_v 3_o man_n even_o by_o accustom_v and_o habituate_a themselves_o to_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n in_o lesser_a thing_n do_v by_o little_a and_o little_o stupify_v and_o in_o a_o manner_n put_v out_o the_o life_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o â—s_v the_o apostle_n have_v the_o word_n they_o cauterise_n or_o fear_v it_o as_o it_o be_v with_o a_o hot_a iron_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o some_o true_o tender_a christian_n be_v trouble_v with_o and_o have_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o their_o exercise_n any_o little_a thing_n or_o thing_n that_o have_v in_o they_o but_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o evil_n other_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o pray_v to_o be_v save_v from_o such_o madness_n and_o folly_n because_o they_o be_v never_o accustom_v to_o nor_o acquaint_v with_o any_o challenge_n or_o exercise_v of_o that_o kind_n but_o have_v teach_v themselves_o a_o way_n of_o stepe_v over_o their_o conscience_n and_o this_o provock_v god_n to_o give_v they_o up_o to_o a_o reprobate_a mind_n to_o do_v thing_n which_o be_v not_o convenient_a they_o harden_v themselves_o by_o resist_v the_o challenge_n of_o the_o word_n and_o rod_n of_o god_n and_o of_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o be_v judicial_o harden_v so_o that_o either_o conscience_n say_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o they_o or_o they_o do_v not_o at_o all_o value_n what_o it_o say_v thence_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v that_o the_o profane_v have_v most_o ordinary_o few_o challenge_n and_o these_o few_o that_o they_o have_v they_o trample_v on_o they_o and_o stifle_v they_o as_o but_o un-regardable_a and_o trifle_a thing_n whereas_o the_o most_o tender_a conscience_n have_v ready_o manye_v challenge_n though_o i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o sometime_o challenge_n will_v bear_v in_o themselves_o irresistible_o on_o the_o profane_v of_o man_n but_o they_o be_v to_o such_o very_a un-welcomeguests_a and_o they_o endeavour_v quick_o to_o smother_v they_o or_o to_o drive_v they_o out_o again_o 4_o many_o bias_n their_o own_o conscience_n and_o teach_v themselves_o shift_n not_o so_o much_o to_o satisfy_v their_o conscience_n as_o how_o to_o answer_v it_o and_o to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o it_o and_o to_o please_v their_o own_o humour_n if_o they_o can_v give_v a_o reason_n for_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o think_v they_o do_v very_o well_o thus_o deceive_v themselves_o and_o be_v deceive_v for_o a_o deceive_v heart_n have_v lead_v they_o aside_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o some_o thing_n man_n take_v as_o much_o pain_n to_o bias_n their_o conscience_n and_o to_o have_v it_o say_v as_o they_o say_v as_o one_o man_n will_v take_v on_o another_o to_o satisfy_v he_o and_o to_o bring_v he_o over_o to_o be_v of_o his_o mind_n in_o any_o matter_n hence_o also_o be_v the_o debate_n and_o struggle_a exercise_n that_o some_o will_v have_v within_o themselves_o before_o they_o can_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o ingenuous_a confession_n of_o that_o they_o be_v guilty_a of_o 5_o people_z seek_v to_o please_v their_o conscience_n when_o they_o can_v bias_n it_o and_o when_o conscience_n challenge_v they_o will_v make_v amends_o as_o it_o may_v be_v they_o will_v pray_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o commit_v such_o or_o such_o a_o sin_n as_o some_o profane_a man_n will_v do_v when_o they_o be_v go_v to_o fight_v a_o combat_n or_o duel_n this_o be_v to_o bribe_v the_o conscience_n thus_o many_o papist_n when_o they_o have_v do_v a_o evil_a turn_n will_v give_v so_o much_o to_o the_o poor_a or_o dot_v so_o much_o to_o some_o pious_a work_n or_o use_v as_o they_o judge_v to_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o recompense_n what_o else_o be_v this_o but_o to_o bribe_v conscience_n in_o one_o thing_n to_o hold_v its_o tongue_n in_o another_o thing_n so_o some_o though_o they_o tipple_v all_o the_o day_n think_v they_o do_v well_o if_o they_o have_v be_v a_o while_n in_o the_o church_n and_o will_v seek_v to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o their_o conscience_n with_o that_o at_o night_n for_o they_o can_v not_o at_o all_o keep_v quarter_n to_o speak_v so_o with_o their_o conscience_n if_o they_o have_v not_o some_o form_n of_o religion_n and_o therefore_o they_o will_v to_o speak_v so_o be_v brave_a
religious_a man_n in_o some_o thing_n that_o they_o may_v get_v a_o dispensation_n to_o themselves_o in_o other_o thing_n but_o none_o of_o these_o will_v be_v find_v law-byding_a when_o god_n come_v to_o reckon_v 6_o people_n in_o a_o sort_n bargain_n with_o their_o conscience_n like_o these_o speak_v of_o isa._n 28._o 15._o they_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o death_n and_o be_v at_o agreement_n with_o hell_n and_o like_a naaman_n if_o that_o be_v indeed_o his_o meaning_n they_o will_v yield_v conscience_n such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o no_o more_o they_o must_v have_v a_o dispensation_n in_o and_o a_o liberty_n of_o make_v reservation_n and_o exception_n of_o some_o one_o or_o more_o thing_n though_o this_o may_v not_o always_o be_v do_v distinct_o formal_o and_o explicit_o yet_o it_o be_v so_o on_o the_o matter_n implicit_o and_o interpretative_o but_o that_o covenant_n with_o death_n however_o make_v direct_o or_o indirect_o shall_v be_v break_v and_o that_o agreement_n with_o hell_n shall_v not_o stand_v and_o the_o hail_n of_o god_n wrath_n will_v sweep_v away_o the_o refuge_n of_o lie_n and_o conscience_n will_v speak_v at_o last_o but_o not_o with_o or_o under_o such_o cover_v of_o figleaf_n that_o man_n now_o wrap_v themselves_o in_o therefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o dally_v not_o with_o conscience_n for_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v waken_v as_o it_o be_v a_o fearful_a thing_n to_o fall_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o live_a god_n who_o act_v in_o and_o by_o that_o conscience_n the_o four_o and_o last_o use_v be_v a_o use_n of_o exhortation_n see_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o man_n and_o more_o especial_o of_o believer_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o in_o nothing_o they_o offend_v their_o conscience_n we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o you_o will_v order_v your_o conversation_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o your_o conscience_n may_v have_v a_o challenge_n against_o you_o you_o will_v all_o ready_o think_v that_o this_o be_v very_o reasonable_a and_o indeed_o if_o we_o prevail_v not_o in_o this_o wherein_o can_v we_o expect_v to_o prevail_v with_o you_o we_o seek_v no_o more_o of_o you_o but_o that_o you_o will_v so_o walk_v as_o that_o live_a and_o die_v your_o conscience_n may_v not_o flee_v in_o your_o face_n but_o may_v give_v you_o this_o testimony_n that_o you_o have_v aim_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o to_o live_v honest_o you_o may_v possible_o think_v that_o this_o be_v a_o fair_a general_n and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o very_a gross_a and_o profane_a man_n that_o will_v deny_v it_o and_o yet_o we_o will_v think_v that_o many_o of_o you_o be_v come_v a_o great_a length_n in_o religion_n if_o we_o can_v prevail_v with_o you_o but_o this_o far_o as_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n live_v and_o die_v as_o we_o say_v you_o may_v study_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v no_o controvert_v nor_o debeatable_a thing_n we_o may_v with_o the_o more_o confidence_n press_v it_o upon_o you_o especial_o see_v it_o be_v the_o very_a soul_n and_o life_n of_o religion_n and_o where_o that_o be_v not_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o truth_n in_o religion_n that_o this_o exhortation_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_a and_o cogent_a we_o shall_v speak_v a_o word_n to_o these_o three_o 1._o to_o what_o this_o be_v to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o your_o walk_n 2._o to_o some_o motive_n to_o stir_v you_o up_o to_o it_o 3._o to_o some_o help_n to_o it_o for_o the_o 1._o it_o include_v these_o four_o which_o shall_v go_v along_o in_o your_o walk_n 1._o that_o you_o commit_v no_o know_a sin_n for_o there_o will_v be_v no_o good_a conscience_n if_o that_o be_v adventure_v on_o you_o who_o know_v that_o you_o shall_v not_o take_v liberty_n in_o drink_v drink_v in_o swear_v in_o profane_a or_o idle_a speak_n etc._n etc._n walk_v so_o as_o you_o may_v not_o thwart_v your_o knowledge_n 2_o it_o take_v in_o this_o that_o as_o you_o will_v commit_v no_o know_a sin_n so_o you_o will_v ommit_v no_o know_a duty_n because_o though_o every_o sin_n do_v wrong_v the_o conscience_n yet_o the_o sin_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o commit_v and_o the_o duty_n that_o we_o know_v and_o yet_o omit_v do_v more_o direct_o strict_a against_o conscience_n you_o who_o know_v that_o the_o sabbath_n shall_v be_v keep_v holy_a that_o you_o shall_v pray_v in_o secret_a and_o in_o your_o family_n that_o you_o shall_v not_o offend_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n beware_v of_o hazard_v on_o these_o contrary_n to_o your_o light_n 3_o it_o take_v in_o and_o suppose_v that_o you_o do_v nothing_o doubt_o for_o rom._n 14._o he_o that_o doubt_v and_o do_v be_v damn_v he_o be_v sentence_v and_o judge_v as_o to_o that_o particular_a 4_o it_o include_v this_o to_o endeavour_v to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n oâ—_n perform_v all_o duty_n and_o to_o have_v a_o single_a end_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o pray_v or_o to_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o other_o command_v duty_n that_o will_v not_o quiet_a the_o conscience_n if_o you_o study_v not_o to_o be_v right_a in_o the_o manner_n and_o to_o do_v it_o for_o the_o right_a end_n the_o want_n of_o these_o requisite_a qualification_n of_o acceptable_a duty_n will_v make_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v lawful_a on_o the_o matter_n turn_v to_o be_v ground_n of_o challenge_n from_o the_o conscience_n but_o somewhat_o to_o this_o purpose_n have_v be_v speak_v of_o before_o therefore_o it_o have_v now_o be_v but_o touch_v 2_o for_o motive_n 1._o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o be_v a_o more_o clear_a duty_n it_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o all_o by_o nature_n heathen_n have_v it_o engrave_v on_o their_o heart_n as_o we_o see_v rom._n 2._o 15._o their_o conscience_n bear_v they_o witness_v and_o their_o thought_n excuse_v or_o accuse_v one_o another_o and_o they_o have_v call_v it_o a_o brazen_a wall_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o to_o a_o sound_a walk_n in_o their_o moral_a sense_n 2_o there_o be_v many_o and_o great_a advantage_n attend_v it_o as_o namely_o 1._o it_o give_v a_o man_n much_o boldness_n in_o approach_v to_o god_n 1_o john_n 3._o 20._o if_o our_o heart_n condemn_v we_o not_o then_o have_v we_o boldness_n towards_o god_n when_o we_o go_v to_o pray_v 2._o it_o give_v ground_n also_o to_o expect_v one_fw-mi hearing_n 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v please_v in_o his_o sight_n and_o cross_v not_o our_o light_n and_o conscience_n in_o neglect_v any_o of_o they_o 3_o it_o keep_v a_o man_n from_o much_o sin_n and_o be_v that_o think_v you_o little_a advantage_n to_o have_v little_a comparative_o at_o least_o on_o a_o man_n score_n to_o reckon_v for_o 4thly_a it_o make_v a_o man_n life_n cheerful_a so_o prov._n 15._o 15._o he_o that_o be_v of_o a_o merry_a heart_n have_v a_o continual_a feast_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o heart_n cheerful_a in_o god_n from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o this_o be_v it_o on_o the_o matter_n which_o guard_v the_o the_o heart_n and_o mind_n so_o that_o no_o care_n can_v considerable_o disquiet_v it_o as_o we_o have_v it_o phil._n 4._o 7._o the_o heart_n be_v guard_v yea_o garison_v as_o the_o word_n be_v with_o peace_n that_o there_o be_v no_o storm_v nor_o intake_v of_o it_o by_o outward_a trouble_n it_o be_v the_o joy_n that_o stranger_n inter_v meddle_v not_o with_o 5thly_a it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o strong_a cordial_a in_o affliction_n when_o christian_n be_v persecute_v by_o stranger_n or_o by_o false_a brethren_n be_v in_o sickness_n in_o prison_n in_o peril_n by_o sea_n or_o land_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1._o 12._o in_o the_o midst_n of_o affliction_n six_o and_o more_o particular_o it_o be_v a_o sweet_a and_o sovereign_a cordial_n when_o death_n approach_v hezekiah_n can_v say_v then_o remember_v lord_n how_o i_o have_v walk_v before_o thou_o in_o truth_n and_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n it_o put_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o posture_n of_o die_v somewhat_o like_o old_a simeon_n and_o give_v some_o ground_n to_o say_v with_o he_o now_o let_v thou_o thy_o servant_n depart_v in_o peace_n for_o my_o eye_n have_v see_v thy_o salvation_n the_o necessity_n of_o it_o will_v yet_o further_o appear_v if_o on_o the_o other_o side_n we_o look_v to_o the_o disadvantage_n that_o wait_v the_o want_n of_o it_o though_o man_n can_v be_v content_a to_o live_v a_o heartless_a life_n
preach_n of_o it_o aim_v at_o even_o to_o direct_v and_o help_v they_o how_o to_o come_v at_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o how_o to_o keep_v a_o good_a correspondence_n with_o their_o conscience_n so_o as_o they_o may_v be_v comfortable_o assure_v that_o they_o indeed_o have_v this_o good_a thing_n which_o be_v call_v a_o good_a conscience_n yet_o when_o conscience_n be_v abuse_v or_o not_o make_v right_o use_v of_o it_o turn_v to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a unfriend_n and_o enemy_n that_o man_n have_v in_o this_o world_n nay_o in_o that_o world_n which_o be_v to_o come_v have_v speak_v somewhat_o to_o this_o before_o and_o in_o the_o last_o observation_n that_o we_o draw_v from_o the_o former_a text_n which_o be_v that_o man_n ought_v to_o walk_v so_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v their_o conscience_n in_o any_o thing_n we_o shall_v now_o speak_v somewhat_o to_o one_o direction_n and_o help_n that_o be_v great_o if_o not_o main_o contributive_a and_o useful_a in_o order_n to_o the_o attain_n of_o that_o notable_a end_n which_o be_v this_o that_o man_n who_o aim_v to_o walk_v answerable_o to_o that_o rule_n so_o as_o in_o nothing_o they_o offend_v their_o conscience_n have_v need_n to_o observe_v careful_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o our_o purpose_n to_o stay_v on_o the_o particular_a consideration_n of_o the_o scope_n of_o this_o scripture_n nor_o so_o much_o as_o to_o name_n let_v be_v to_o prosecute_v all_o the_o point_n of_o doctrine_n that_o may_v be_v draw_v from_o it_o but_o only_o to_o discourse_v a_o little_a from_o the_o word_n enclose_v and_o shut_v up_o within_o a_o parenthesis_n as_o they_o relate_v to_o our_o end_n and_o design_n first_o then_o in_o a_o word_n the_o apostle_n be_v here_o put_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o external_a service_n and_o the_o internal_a power_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n on_o the_o conscience_n and_o when_o he_o be_v speak_v of_o baptism_n he_o give_v this_o caveat_n and_o advertisement_n that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o wash_n of_o water_n in_o that_o ordinance_n that_o reach_v the_o great_a end_n of_o it_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o he_o show_v that_o the_o difference_v and_o march-ridding_a character_n of_o the_o one_o from_o the_o other_o be_v in_o what_o answer_n the_o conscience_n give_v concern_v the_o thing_n that_o the_o man_n be_v about_o and_o declare_v that_o it_o be_v not_o simple_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o give_v ground_n of_o hope_n and_o boldness_n of_o confidence_n to_o obtain_v the_o promise_n from_o the_o word_n these_o three_o observation_n arise_v clear_o first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o faculty_n in_o conscience_n that_o be_v able_a to_o give_v â—ne_a answer_n to_o a_o man_n concern_v his_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n and_o concern_v his_o action_n so_o that_o if_o the_o question_n about_o these_o or_o any_o of_o they_o be_v put_v to_o the_o conscience_n it_o can_v return_v answer_n and_o signify_v its_o sense_n and_o give_v its_o verdict_n concern_v that_o which_o it_o be_v question_v about_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n imply_v so_o much_o 2_o that_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n be_v different_a and_o distinct_a from_o the_o outward_a answer_n of_o the_o mouth_n or_o profession_n for_o a_o man_n mouth_n and_o profession_n and_o the_o external_a ingadgement_n that_o he_o come_v under_o in_o baptism_n or_o any_o other_o ordinance_n or_o duty_n may_v say_v one_o thing_n or_o give_v one_o answer_n when_o the_o conscience_n may_v say_v another_o thing_n or_o give_v another_o answer_n concern_v the_o man_n sincerity_n in_o the_o thing_n 3_o that_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o be_v one_fw-mi answer_v from_o the_o conscience_n on_o good_a ground_n testify_v a_o man_n sincerity_n be_v a_o most_o excellent_a and_o comfortable_a thing_n it_o be_v the_o first_o of_o these_o that_o we_o intend_v to_o speak_v a_o word_n to_o at_o this_o time_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v a_o way_n of_o get_v a_o answer_n from_o the_o conscience_n and_o of_o understand_v its_o mind_n about_o any_o thing_n that_o man_n shall_v put_v to_o it_o or_o thus_o conscience_n have_v a_o way_n of_o make_v know_v its_o mind_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n about_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v put_v unto_o it_o these_o word_n answer_v of_o conscience_n imply_v so_o much_o as_o we_o say_v especial_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o external_a service_n and_o administration_n of_o baptism_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o word_n before_o and_o it_o be_v yet_o more_o clear_a if_o we_o consider_v how_o the_o scop_n run_v in_o compare_v of_o these_o two_o together_o viz._n the_o verbal_a restipulation_n of_o these_o that_o be_v come_v to_o age_n and_o the_o inward_a answer_n of_o conscience_n there_o be_v the_o gospel_n on_o the_o one_o side_n require_v such_o a_o thing_n and_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o party_n baptize_v on_o the_o other_o side_n and_o the_o apostle_n make_v the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n distinct_a from_o that_o though_o sometime_o it_o go_v along_o with_o it_o so_o that_o a_o man_n will_v not_o answer_v more_o clear_o to_o the_o thing_n than_o his_o conscience_n will_v when_o it_o be_v serious_o put_v to_o it_o this_o may_v be_v branch_v out_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o in_o respect_n of_o a_o man_n state_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o some_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o of_o the_o heart_n embrace_v of_o it_o 3._o in_o respect_n of_o some_o practice_n or_o duty_n that_o a_o man_n be_v call_v to_o all_o these_o do_v fall_v under_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v question_v about_o they_o but_o it_o be_v the_o last_o of_o they_o that_o we_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o viz._n it_o be_v answer_n as_o relate_v to_o a_o christian_n duty_n and_o practice_n about_o which_o conscience_n be_v ask_v or_o pose_v be_v able_a to_o give_v he_o a_o answer_n which_o i_o shall_v clear_v from_o two_o ground_n and_o then_o come_v to_o the_o use._n the_o 1._o ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n which_o we_o some_o way_n explain_v when_o we_o begin_v to_o speak_v of_o this_o subject_n conscience_n be_v depute_v of_o god_n in_o man_n to_o take_v strict_a notice_n of_o every_o piece_n of_o his_o walk_n and_o practice_n and_o be_v the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n search_v all_o the_o inward_a part_n of_o the_o belly_n to_o let_v man_n see_v what_o god_n call_v to_o and_o to_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n their_o duty_n this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o office_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o end_n why_o god_n have_v place_v it_o in_o man_n it_o be_v no_o doubt_n furnish_v with_o such_o a_o faculty_n if_o we_o may_v speak_v so_o as_o to_o be_v able_a to_o give_v a_o answer_n concern_v what_o it_o be_v query_v about_o more_o particular_o it_o have_v a_o threefold_a power_n in_o reference_n to_o a_o man_n way_n and_o thus_o it_o represent_v god_n in_o three_o of_o his_o attribut_n 1._o it_o have_v a_o power_n of_o counsel_v advise_v and_o carve_v out_o of_o a_o man_n duty_n so_o that_o when_o he_o doubt_v what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v conscience_n have_v a_o power_n to_o advise_v he_o and_o give_v he_o a_o answer_n and_o this_o be_v call_v the_o dictate_v of_o the_o conscience_n answerable_a to_o the_o sovereign_a authority_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o command_v all_o his_o creature_n to_o who_o conscience_n be_v subordinat_a in_o which_o respect_n man_n be_v condemn_v for_o thwart_v with_o their_o conscience_n rom._n 1._o ult_n who_o know_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n that_o they_o that_o commit_v such_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o death_n not_o only_o do_v the_o same_o but_o have_v pleasure_n in_o they_o that_o do_v they_o here_o be_v conscience_n dictate_v to_o man_n what_o they_o shall_v do_v before_o they_o do_v 2_o there_o be_v a_o power_n or_o something_o in_o the_o conscience_n that_o go_v along_o with_o a_o man_n act_v or_o that_o wait_v on_o he_o in_o the_o time_n of_o his_o act_n in_o duty_n and_o this_o especial_o be_v call_v the_o testify_a of_o conscience_n or_o it_o be_v bear_a witness_n concern_v the_o sincerity_n or_o un-soundness_n of_o the_o act_n not_o onâ—y_o do_v the_o man_n mouth_n speak_v and_o his_o hand_n do_v but_o the_o conscience_n will_v give_v answer_n if_o the_o heart_n be_v go_v along_o with_o the_o man_n speak_v and_o do_v or_o not_o wherein_o it_o represent_v god_n omniscience_n or_o all-knowledge_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o psal._n 27._o 8._o david_n say_v when_o thou_o say_v seek_v you_o my_o face_n my_o bear_v it_o answer_v thy_o face_n will_v i_o seek_v o_o lord_n and_o psal._n 16._o 2._o o_o my_o soul_n thou_o
have_v say_v unto_o the_o lord_n thou_o be_v my_o lord_n this_o be_v the_o language_n of_o the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heart_n testify_v by_o the_o conscience_n or_o conscience_n answer_v the_o sincerity_n of_o the_o heart_n 3_o there_o be_v a_o power_n in_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v subsequent_a unto_o and_o follow_v upon_o the_o action_n when_o do_v either_o approve_v or_o disapprove_v either_o accuss_v or_o excuse_v either_o absolve_a or_o condemn_v call_v the_o recognosce_n or_o examine_v of_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v do_v when_o conscience_n put_v the_o man_n deed_n or_o action_n when_o perform_v to_o the_o trial_n and_o have_v try_v it_o pass_v sentence_n on_o it_o thus_o conscience_n represent_v god_n as_o judge_n and_o as_o a_o just_a judge_n now_o all_o these_o three_o be_v in_o the_o conscience_n viz._n a_o power_n of_o counsel_v command_v and_o dictate_v to_o a_o man_n what_o he_o shall_v do_v a_o power_n bear_v testimony_n concern_v the_o manner_n of_o his_o do_v and_o a_o power_n of_o recognosce_v and_o examine_v after_o he_o have_v do_v it_o tell_v we_o plain_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o conscience_n declare_v its_o mind_n and_o give_v a_o answer_n to_o man_n concern_v their_o duty_n in_o what_o it_o be_v put_v to_o give_v a_o answer_n about_o else_o they_o can_v not_o know_v its_o mind_n the_o second_o ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o clear_a and_o manifest_a effect_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v testify_v or_o answer_v what_o i_o pray_v make_v a_o restlessness_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o people_n but_o conscience_n its_o challenge_v or_o reprove_v what_o cause_v tranquillity_n and_o peace_n within_o when_o reproach_n and_o revile_n be_v without_o but_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n to_o the_o man_n of_o his_o innocency_n in_o and_o his_o be_v free_a of_o these_o thing_n wherewith_o he_o be_v charge_v and_o what_o be_v it_o that_o lay_v on_o a_o restraint_n and_o bond_n as_o it_o be_v on_o the_o man_n spirit_n as_o paul_n say_v of_o himself_o act_v 20_o 22._o i_o go_v hound_n in_o the_o spirit_n to_o jerusalem_n but_o the_o conscience_n it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o weight_n that_o flow_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o also_o the_o weight_n that_o flow_v immediate_o from_o the_o conscience_n joy_v with_o and_o back_v the_o word_n now_o if_o the_o conscience_n have_v not_o a_o direct_a and_o distinct_a language_n or_o answer_v to_o give_v to_o man_n about_o their_o action_n there_o can_v be_v no_o such_o effect_n follow_v it_o the_o uses_n be_v two_o the_o 1._o for_o direction_n the_o 2._o for_o reproof_n the_o use_v for_o direction_n be_v that_o see_v there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n whereby_o it_o make_v know_v its_o mind_n when_o it_o be_v ask_v concern_v our_o way_n we_o ought_v if_o we_o believe_v that_o we_o have_v conscience_n to_o put_v they_o to_o answer_v and_o to_o observe_v what_o they_o say_v and_o what_o answer_n they_o return_v if_o conscience_n have_v a_o language_n i_o say_v again_o let_v we_o put_v it_o to_o speak_v out_o and_o let_v we_o be_v very_o ready_a and_o attentive_a to_o hear_v what_o it_o speak_v to_o clear_v this_o a_o little_a we_o will_v consider_v that_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n in_o a_o christian_a walk_n in_o reference_n to_o this_o correspondency_n which_o a_o man_n shall_v keep_v with_o his_o conscience_n the_o 1._o which_o be_v universal_a and_o irresistible_a be_v when_o the_o conscience_n ask_v man_n or_o put_v question_n to_o they_o such_z as_o why_o do_v you_o this_o or_o that_o why_o do_v you_o leave_v this_o or_o that_o undo_v as_o it_o be_v 1_o cor._n 10._o 25._o ask_v no_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n that_o be_v ask_v no_o question_n for_o answer_v of_o these_o question_n which_o conscience_n will_v ask_v the_o second_o be_v when_o man_n ask_v question_n at_o their_o conscience_n to_o prevent_v its_o question_n of_o they_o as_o indeed_o we_o shall_v be_v take_v pain_n before_o hand_n to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o the_o language_n of_o our_o conscience_n concern_v our_o practice_n in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o particular_a that_o it_o may_v have_v no_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n against_o we_o i_o shall_v instance_n this_o in_o three_o thing_n and_o hold_v at_o the_o first_o for_o the_o time_n 1._o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n before_o we_o put_v our_o hand_n to_o any_o duty_n 2_o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n in_o the_o interim_n or_o in_o the_o very_a time_n of_o our_o go_v about_o duty_n 3_o we_o shall_v observe_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n concern_v duty_n when_o we_o have_v do_v and_o go_v through_o with_o it_o in_o which_o my_o meaning_n be_v not_o 1._o that_o we_o shall_v in_o clear_a and_o necessary_a duty_n start_v or_o put_v question_n but_o that_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o their_o own_o nature_n and_o in_o such_o duty_n as_o be_v necessary_a and_o do_v semper_fw-la or_o ever_o oblige_v though_o not_o ad_fw-la semper_fw-la or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n but_o only_o hic_fw-mi &_o nunc_fw-la now_o and_o then_o to_o wit_n at_o due_a and_o seasonable_a time_n or_o as_o to_o the_o right_n time_v of_o these_o necessary_a duty_n for_o every_o thing_n be_v beautiful_a in_o the_o season_n thereof_o wherein_o a_o great_a part_n of_o our_o work_n along_o our_o whole_a life_n lie_v the_o answer_n of_o our_o conscience_n shall_v be_v observe_v for_o though_o many_o condition_n station_n and_o action_n be_v lawful_a yet_o conscience_n decide_v whether_o i_o be_v call_v to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o station_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o duty_n to_o i_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o how_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v go_v about_o as_o to_o the_o manner_n neither_o 2_o do_v i_o mean_v that_o we_o shall_v in_o these_o thing_n expect_v any_o extraordinary_a thing_n or_o somewhat_o more_o than_o a_o ordinary_a impulse_n of_o conscience_n lay_v on_o a_o sort_n of_o constraint_n or_o necessity_n on_o we_o in_o a_o immediate_a way_n which_o will_v be_v dangerous_a but_o my_o meaning_n be_v short_o this_o that_o there_o be_v a_o possibility_n in_o god_n ordinary_a way_n to_o know_v what_o conscience_n say_v to_o they_o that_o will_v observe_v the_o answer_n of_o it_o both_o before_o in_o and_o after_o duty_n and_o that_o we_o shall_v aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o understand_v and_o take_v up_o that_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o use_n we_o shall_v speak_v a_o little_a to_o some_o five_o or_o six_o question_n as_o namely_o 1._o what_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v two_o how_o the_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n 3_o what_o be_v call_v for_o from_o man_n to_o find_v out_o this_o answer_n 4_o how_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v discern_v 5_o if_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v discernible_a at_o all_o time_n 6_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o such_o case_n wherein_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v not_o so_o clear_a as_o man_n will_v have_v it_o for_o the_o 1._o what_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v i_o answer_v in_o short_a that_o it_o be_v distinct_a from_o a_o man_n inclination_n from_o his_o affection_n and_o from_o his_o naked_a judgement_n or_o light_n there_o be_v something_o in_o a_o man_n natural_a inclination_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o sway_n he_o to_o this_o or_o that_o but_o that_o be_v not_o conscience_n there_o be_v also_o something_o in_o a_o man_n affection_n as_o in_o that_o which_o he_o fear_v or_o desire_v and_o love_v that_o may_v sway_n he_o neither_o be_v that_o conscience_n but_o often_o that_o which_o be_v contrary_a to_o conscience_n there_o be_v likewise_o something_o in_o man_n light_n from_o which_o alâ—o_o conscience_n differ_v because_o a_o natural_a and_o unregenerat_a man_n that_o make_v no_o conscience_n of_o his_o way_n may_v notwithstanding_o have_v a_o light_n in_o his_o judgement_n by_o which_o he_o be_v put_v to_o come_v to_o church_n anâ—_n possible_o to_o pray_v and_o do_v other_o duty_n and_o yet_o it_o may_v be_v from_o no_o answer_n or_o dictat_fw-la of_o conscience_n that_o he_o do_v these_o duty_n we_o conceive_v therefore_o that_o this_o answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v something_o different_a from_o and_o beyond_o either_o inclination_n affection_n or_o bare_a light_n and_o that_o it_o be_v light_a and_o conscience_n go_v joint_o together_o or_o some_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o the_o word_n for_o we_o be_v speak_v here_o of_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v in_o people_n live_v in_o the_o church_n under_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n and_o conscience_n thereupon_o put_v on_o
to_o it_o or_o a_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o the_o word_n that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v a_o â—in_a and_o conscience_n thereupon_o deter_v from_o it_o thus_o it_o differ_v from_o light_n simple_o consider_v in_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v a_o conclusion_n draw_v from_o such_o ground_n as_o the_o judgement_n or_o light_n in_o the_o judgement_n lay_v down_o to_o or_o before_o it_o it_o be_v a_o answer_n that_o not_o only_o have_v truth_n in_o it_o which_o may_v be_v from_o light_n but_o its_o one_fw-mi answer_n as_o have_v a_o truth_n in_o it_o that_o be_v draw_v from_o such_o a_o ground_n warrand_a such_o and_o such_o a_o practice_n conscience_n look_v on_o it_o as_o god_n mind_n for_o direct_v it_o in_o its_o duty_n and_o on_o that_o account_n put_v on_o to_o it_o as_o to_o the_o 2d_o question_v how_o the_o conscience_n give_v this_o answer_n or_o how_o it_o make_v its_o sense_n and_o language_n of_o thing_n know_v in_o answer_v to_o it_o we_o will_v be_v sober_a and_o not_o curious_a noâ—_n more_o particular_a than_o we_o have_v ground_n for_o in_o short_a then_o we_o conceive_v that_o there_o be_v these_o 4._o way_n how_o and_o whereby_o conscience_n give_v it_o answer_n to_o let_v people_n know_v when_o it_o be_v please_v or_o displease_v 1._o when_o it_o bind_v and_o tie_v such_o or_o such_o a_o word_n import_v such_o or_o such_o a_o duty_n on_o a_o man_n that_o he_o can_v no_o way_n get_v himself_o rid_v of_o nor_o it_o shake_v off_o as_o when_o he_o be_v dispute_v and_o debate_v within_o himself_o whither_o such_o a_o thing_n shall_v be_v do_v or_o not_o do_v conscience_n answer_v on_o good_a ground_n and_o either_o bid_v he_o abstain_v or_o do_v and_o have_v a_o pour_v with_o it_o because_o the_o word_n of_o god_n command_v or_o forbid_v it_o and_o this_o be_v not_o only_o because_o there_o be_v a_o word_n for_o it_o or_o against_o it_o but_o clear_a light_n draw_v a_o conclusion_n from_o such_o a_o word_n whereupon_o the_o conscience_n bind_v it_o on_o the_o man_n so_o that_o it_o can_v be_v get_v shift_v nor_o shake_v off_o for_o we_o know_v that_o man_n may_v know_v many_o duty_n and_o yet_o not_o do_v they_o and_o upon_o the_o other_o hand_n that_o man_n may_v be_v stir_v or_o pouss_v on_o to_o do_v that_o which_o it_o be_v not_o god_n mind_n they_o shall_v do_v so_o than_o it_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n when_o the_o word_n and_o the_o conclusion_n of_o conscience_n be_v connect_v and_o join_v together_o so_o as_o the_o one_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o other_o and_o flow_v from_o the_o other_o and_o this_o be_v the_o most_o special_a way_n how_o conscience_n make_v its_o sense_n of_o thing_n know_v the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n a_o second_o way_n be_v by_o some_o secret_a discontent_n or_o restlessness_n in_o the_o conscience_n if_o a_o man_n do_v such_o a_o thing_n as_o be_v not_o duty_n or_o if_o he_o do_v not_o such_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v point_v out_o to_o he_o to_o be_v duty_n either_o through_o ignorance_n or_o inadvertancy_n the_o conscience_n then_o as_o it_o be_v hunt_v the_o man_n with_o challenge_n disquiet_v and_o make_v he_o restless_a till_o he_o practise_v such_o a_o duty_n or_o abstain_v from_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o this_o we_o find_v to_o have_v be_v often_o in_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o scripture_n they_o have_v have_v no_o rest_n till_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v do_v and_o such_o a_o thing_n abstain_v from_o which_o flow_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n accuse_v or_o breed_v discontent_n because_o of_o unanswerableness_a to_o the_o rule_n 3_o conscience_n have_v a_o way_n of_o signify_v its_o mind_n by_o make_v some_o impression_n of_o terror_n to_o back_o and_o second_v more_o than_o ordinary_a conviction_n of_o and_o threaten_n and_o challenge_v for_o sin_n when_o sin_n be_v commit_v conscience_n convince_v and_o challenge_v when_o this_o do_v not_o the_o turn_n upon_o the_o back_n thereof_o come_v the_o threaten_a and_o some_o fit_n of_o terror_n sometime_o the_o threaten_a be_v conditional_a sometime_o the_o peremptory_a certification_n be_v add_v sometime_o again_o the_o impression_n of_o the_o threaten_a will_v be_v more_o sensible_a sometime_o more_o insensible_a when_o conscience_n give_v advice_n and_o dictate_v from_o the_o word_n it_o make_v use_v of_o the_o command_n but_o in_o the_o sense_n we_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o it_o make_v use_v of_o the_o threaten_n as_o for_o instance_n it_o be_v say_v in_o the_o three_o command_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o hold_v he_o guiltless_a that_o take_v his_o name_n in_o vain_a now_o for_o any_o degree_n of_o this_o guilt_n conscience_n challenge_v and_o when_o that_o be_v slight_v thereupon_o conscience_n go_v on_o and_o make_v the_o threaten_a terrible_a for_o challenge_n bear_v in_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o conviction_n represent_v the_o threaten_n as_o more_o terrible_a and_o threaten_n bear_v in_o the_o apprehension_n of_o wrath_n and_o hence_o be_v the_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n in_o some_o that_o wakn_v and_o raise_v a_o terrible_a storm_n in_o it_o a_o four_o way_n how_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n and_o make_v its_o mind_n know_v be_v by_o a_o inconceivable_a inward_a calmness_n peace_n serenity_n and_o tranquillity_n in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o when_o a_o man_n reflect_v on_o his_o do_v of_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n find_v it_o agreeable_a to_o the_o same_o all_o his_o terror_n evanish_v his_o mind_n be_v calm_v and_o he_o find_v much_o sweet_a peace_n delight_n and_o acquiesence_n in_o the_o thing_n this_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o conscience_n give_v its_o answer_n all_o which_o have_v great_a need_n to_o be_v careful_o compare_v with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o that_o his_o mind_n therein_o be_v very_o clear_a because_o as_o there_o may_v be_v much_o bastard_n peace_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n so_o there_o may_v be_v many_o groundless_a challenge_n on_o the_o other_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v take_v for_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n as_o for_o the_o 3d_o question_v what_o man_n be_v to_o do_v that_o they_o may_v find_v out_o and_o get_v a_o clear_a answer_n from_o their_o conscience_n or_o what_o be_v call_v for_o from_o they_o to_o find_v out_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n we_o shall_v answer_v this_o in_o these_o three_o 1._o something_o be_v to_o be_v do_v before_o we_o put_v ourselves_o to_o the_o search_n or_o conscience_n to_o give_v its_o answer_n two_o something_o must_v accompany_v this_o duty_n 3_o something_o be_v call_v for_o after_o this_o duty_n be_v do_v 1._o we_o be_v to_o do_v something_o before_o we_o put_v conscience_n to_o it_o to_o give_v its_o answer_n and_o 1._o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o man_n be_v well_o inform_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o thing_n in_o general_a for_o to_o come_v blind_o to_o conscience_n be_v to_o tempt_v it_o and_o make_v it_o a_o snare_n to_o ourselves_o therefore_o i_o say_v we_o shall_v be_v well_o inform_v to_o the_o end_n that_o conscience_n may_v have_v ground_n to_o give_v a_o clear_a answer_n for_o our_o conscience_n be_v like_o the_o judge_n and_o our_o understanding_n like_o the_o advocate_n that_o make_v the_o cause_n know_v and_o if_o all_o thing_n pro_fw-la and_o contra_fw-la for_o and_o against_o be_v not_o propose_v and_o discuss_v by_o the_o advocate_n conscience_n which_o be_v the_o judge_n can_v give_v a_o distinct_a answer_n or_o verdict_n this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o many_o conscience_n do_v err_v because_o there_o be_v not_o pain_n take_v to_o inform_v they_o 2_o when_o the_o judgement_n be_v inform_v man_n shall_v put_v the_o conscience_n to_o it_o to_o answer_v they_o shall_v not_o content_v themselves_o with_o this_o that_o they_o have_v fill_v their_o head_n with_o so_o many_o argument_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n but_o shall_v let_v they_o sink_v down_o to_o the_o conscience_n and_o study_v to_o know_v what_o conscience_n think_v of_o they_o for_o conscience_n as_o we_o say_v before_o be_v some_o way_n beyond_o bare_a light_n therefore_o when_o we_o have_v get_v light_a in_o a_o thing_n we_o shall_v not_o hold_v there_o but_o take_v it_o aside_o and_o communicate_v the_o matter_n to_o conscience_n as_o the_o word_n be_v psal._n 4._o 4._o commune_fw-la with_o your_o heart_n upon_o your_o bed_n there_o be_v a_o commune_n with_o other_o in_o speak_v with_o they_o a_o commune_n with_o book_n iâ—_n peruse_v they_o a_o commune_n with_o our_o inclination_n and_o affection_n and_o take_v notice_n what_o they_o will_v be_v at_o and_o a_o commune_n with_o our_o light_n if_o we_o be_v clear_a in_o the_o thing_n but_o beside_o all_o these_o
there_o shall_v be_v a_o commune_n with_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n which_o we_o conceive_v be_v often_o neglect_v and_o man_n often_o start_v and_o strick_v in_o with_o thing_n without_o deliberation_n think_v if_o they_o have_v light_n for_o such_o a_o thing_n that_o it_o be_v enough_o for_o make_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n to_o be_v duty_n it_o be_v true_a one_fw-mi argument_n from_o light_n may_v induce_v to_o the_o thing_n yet_o we_o be_v neglective_a when_o we_o bring_v it_o not_o to_o the_o conscience_n 3_o man_n shall_v bring_v thing_n impartial_o to_o the_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o we_o be_v not_o pre-occupled_n or_o prejudge_v lest_o we_o get_v one_fw-mi answer_n according_a to_o our_o idol_n as_o well_o as_o we_o shall_v beware_v of_o byass_v and_o bribe_v conscience_n if_o the_o eye_n be_v single_a the_o whole_a body_n will_v be_v full_a of_o light_n but_o if_o the_o eye_n be_v not_o single_a darkness_n may_v be_v have_v from_o the_o conscience_n in_o stead_n of_o light_n not_o that_o in_o clear_a thing_n that_o be_v duty_n at_o all_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v stick_v and_o moâ—e_n question_n which_o be_v balaam_n fault_n but_o in_o thing_n indifferent_a or_o though_o lawful_a yet_o not_o call_v for_o at_o all_o time_n nor_o from_o we_o in_o such_o a_o station_n or_o relation_n when_o the_o question_n run_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v lawful_a to_o we_o or_o not_o or_o if_o we_o be_v call_v to_o it_o at_o this_o time_n we_o shall_v be_v single_a and_o take_v one_fw-mi answer_v from_o conscience_n as_o god_n clear_v it_o 4_o we_o shall_v give_v attention_n leâ—d_a to_o our_o ear_n and_o take_v good_a heed_n what_o conscience_n incline_v to_o and_o say_v whither_o it_o incline_v this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n as_o when_o we_o ask_v a_o question_n at_o 〈◊〉_d we_o use_v to_o be_v silent_a till_o they_o answer_v so_o shall_v it_o be_v here_o and_o if_o conscience_n seem_v not_o to_o speak_v we_o shall_v waâ—t_v on_o and_o not_o be_v hasty_a especial_o we_o shall_v look_v well_o that_o we_o distinguish_v betwixt_o inclination_n the_o affection_n of_o fear_n passion_n and_o the_o like_a and_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n lest_o we_o take_v the_o one_o for_o the_o other_o we_o shall_v both_o take_v heed_n that_o it_o be_v conscience_n that_o answer_v and_o that_o we_o take_v up_o the_o meaning_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v answer_n aright_o in_o order_n to_o which_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o quiet_v and_o hush_v of_o all_o thing_n within_o the_o man_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o disturb_v in_o take_v up_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n or_o that_o may_v prejudge_v conscience_n in_o speak_v and_o give_v its_o answer_n 5_o when_o conscience_n have_v speak_v we_o shall_v put_v its_o answer_n to_o proof_n and_o trial_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n indeed_o we_o shall_v take_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o see_v if_o it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o same_o even_o as_o we_o shall_v take_v our_o light_n to_o conscience_n that_o conscience_n may_v testify_v of_o it_o so_o when_o we_o have_v get_v one_fw-mi answer_n from_o conscience_n we_o shall_v take_v it_o back_o to_o light_n and_o see_v how_o it_o agree_v with_o the_o word_n for_o there_o be_v a_o great_a correspondence_n betwixt_o these_o two_o conscience_n and_o light_n conscience_n serve_v to_o balance_v light_n and_o light_a to_o confirm_v conscience_n which_o be_v god_n deputy_n set_v up_o in_o man_n to_o speak_v his_o mind_n ere_o we_o can_v follow_v aught_o as_o the_o language_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v ask_v for_o his_o warrant_n and_o if_o it_o produce_v no_o word_n for_o the_o warrant_n of_o what_o it_o say_v we_o shall_v not_o take_v it_o for_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n or_o at_o least_o it_o shall_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o mistake_a answer_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o some_o when_o they_o get_v a_o little_a lightning_n after_o prayer_n and_o do_v not_o put_v it_o to_o the_o trial_n and_o yet_o rest_v on_o it_o as_o one_fw-mi answer_n of_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v yea_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o many_o of_o god_n people_n who_o have_v some_o access_n and_o liberty_n in_o their_o address_n to_o he_o be_v mistake_v for_o it_o be_v not_o access_n to_o he_o nor_o liberty_n simple_o that_o warrand_v conscience_n to_o speak_v but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o for_o the_o four_o question_v how_o this_o language_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v discern_v and_o distinguish_v or_o difference_v from_o man_n light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n of_o fear_n or_o desire_n and_o like_v to_o be_v at_o a_o thing_n which_o will_v stir_v and_o make_v restless_a as_o well_o as_o as_o the_o impulse_n of_o conscience_n we_o answer_v 1._o the_o answer_n that_o conscience_n give_v be_v always_o from_o the_o word_n if_o it_o be_v right_a and_o upon_o that_o account_n that_o the_o word_n warrand_v it_o it_o not_o only_o say_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n but_o press_v to_o it_o because_o agreeable_a thereto_o as_o for_o instance_n to_o allude_v to_o that_o word_n if_o not_o more_o he_o that_o give_v to_o a_o disciple_n a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n shall_v not_o loss_n his_o reward_n we_o may_v give_v somewhat_o to_o a_o man_n that_o be_v a_o disciple_n out_o of_o pity_n or_o on_o some_o other_o natural_a or_o moral_a consideration_n and_o relation_n and_o light_n will_v direct_v to_o that_o and_o the_o natural_a conscience_n may_v pousse_n to_o it_o but_o to_o make_v it_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n it_o require_v a_o re-duplication_a that_o we_o give_v to_o he_o as_o or_o because_o he_o be_v a_o disciple_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n so_o one_o may_v pray_v and_o come_v to_o church_n and_o have_v anâ—_n impulse_n to_o it_o and_o yet_o not_o from_o a_o good_a conscience_n as_o another_o do_v because_o the_o one_o come_v as_o in_o obedience_n to_o a_o command_v duty_n the_o other_o not_o but_o on_o some_o other_o account_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o that_o account_n but_o light_n inclination_n and_o affection_n press_v to_o obedience_n on_o another_o account_n as_o from_o some_o selfish_a motive_n or_o consideration_n suppose_v it_o to_o be_v a_o duty_n a_o second_o way_n to_o discern_v its_o answer_n be_v this_o light_z inclination_n and_o affection_n put_v to_o the_o thing_n in_o the_o general_a only_o but_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n respect_v all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o thing_n conscience_n do_v not_o only_o say_v go_v and_o pray_v but_o pray_v in_o this_o manner_n to_o wit_n with_o faith_n love_n fear_v reverence_n and_o sincerity_n of_o heart_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o conscience_n consider_v the_o duty_n as_o circumstantiate_v in_o the_o word_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v answer_n be_v no_o broad_a nor_o narrow_a than_o the_o word_n be_v whereas_o when_o a_o man_n be_v put_v to_o such_o a_o thing_n from_o credit_n fear_v or_o desire_n his_o practice_n be_v extend_v no_o further_a than_o to_o such_o anâ—_n end_n credit_n fear_v of_o loss_n or_o the_o like_a if_o he_o have_v any_o regard_n to_o circumstance_n levell_v and_o module_v he_o in_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o his_o act_n so_o as_o he_o may_v attain_v that_o which_o drive_v he_o on_o to_o such_o a_o duty_n but_o when_o conscience_n put_v to_o duty_n that_o god_n may_v be_v obey_v and_o peace_n in_o he_o enjoy_v it_o regulate_v the_o man_n in_o all_o circumstance_n of_o his_o duty_n in_o order_n to_o that_o end_n and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o some_o be_v so_o soon_o and_o so_o well_o satisfy_v with_o duty_n other_o be_v never_o thorough_o satisfy_v because_o the_o one_o go_v about_o duty_n for_o the_o fashion_n to_o guard_v against_o and_o hold_v off_o challenge_v or_o for_o some_o other_o sinister_a end_n and_o so_o be_v still_o drive_v on_o from_o such_o a_o principle_n and_o for_o such_o end_n but_o the_o other_o go_v about_o duty_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n aâ—d_v so_o as_o he_o may_v have_v peace_n in_o he_o and_o while_o any_o thing_n be_v want_v that_o may_v mâ—rr_v that_o he_o be_v disquiet_v 3_o we_o may_v discern_v it_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o answer_n and_o the_o effect_n that_o it_o have_v on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d to_o who_o the_o answer_n be_v give_v conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n and_o the_o most_o divine_a thing_n in_o man_n even_o the_o candle_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o search_v into_o the_o 〈◊〉_d and_o inward_a part_n of_o the_o belly_n and_o when_o act_v its_o part_n aright_o the_o most_o excellent_a representer_n of_o god_n if_o it_o
be_v well_o observe_v answer_v 1._o in_o another_o manner_n and_o with_o another_o kind_n of_o authority_n boldness_n and_o holy_a statlinesse_n then_o bare_a light_n affection_n or_o passion_n do_v which_o though_o they_o drive_v more_o violent_o yet_o not_o with_o such_o divinness_n to_o speak_v so_o nor_o with_o such_o majestic_a authority_n and_o therefore_o 2_o when_o conscience_n answer_v it_o some_o way_n silence_v lust_n and_o sinful_a passion_n which_o confuse_v and_o to_o speak_v so_o put_v a_o person_n through_o other_o so_o that_o there_o be_v not_o that_o serenity_n and_o calmness_n that_o there_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n when_o conscience_n be_v ask_v at_o and_o clear_o answer_v the_o light_n of_o conscience_n well_o inform_v be_v the_o light_n of_o god_n be_v clear_a and_o quiet_v though_o often_o it_o be_v not_o so_o sensible_a to_o we_o as_o our_o own_o inclination_n and_o affection_n that_o agree_v better_o with_o we_o 3_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n have_v more_o influence_n on_o the_o man_n to_o humble_a and_o abase_v he_o and_o to_o make_v he_o vile_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n because_o it_o speak_v god_n mind_n it_o serve_v to_o exalt_v god_n and_o to_o advance_v the_o work_n of_o mortification_n in_o himself_o but_o where_o this_o be_v not_o and_o man_n be_v soon_o make_v frothy_a and_o conceity_n by_o the_o answer_n which_o they_o get_v and_o the_o very_a first_o reâ—_n of_o it_o be_v to_o puff_n up_o and_o make_v vain_a it_o be_v sure_a at_o best_a but_o the_o answer_n of_o light_n and_o not_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n nor_o god_n speak_v in_o and_o by_o it_o we_o shall_v proceed_v no_o further_o at_o this_o time_n that_o which_o we_o aim_v at_o by_o all_o we_o have_v now_o say_v be_v in_o a_o word_n this_o to_o show_v that_o as_o upon_o the_o one_o side_n you_o shall_v learn_v to_o give_v conscience_n some_o employment_n and_o see_v it_o can_v give_v you_o anâ—_n answer_n to_o put_v it_o to_o it_o and_o not_o to_o bear_v about_o you_o such_o a_o noble_a counsellor_n and_o adviser_n without_o make_v suitable_a use_n of_o it_o so_o upon_o the_o other_o side_n that_o you_o may_v learn_v to_o know_v when_o conscience_n speak_v and_o what_o it_o speak_v and_o that_o you_o may_v give_v it_o obedience_n when_o it_o speak_v according_a to_o the_o word_n in_o a_o word_n the_o right_a use-making_a of_o conscience_n be_v intermix_v and_o interweave_v with_o the_o wholepractice_n of_o christianity_n and_o where_o it_o be_v right_o observe_v in_o one_o thing_n there_o will_v be_v one_fw-mi honest_a aim_n to_o observe_v it_o in_o another_o yea_o in_o every_o thing_n and_o this_o may_v be_v another_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o oâ—_n light_v only_o or_o of_o any_o other_o thing_n viz._n that_o the_o suppose_a answer_n of_o conscience_n or_o of_o light_n in_o the_o judgement_n which_o be_v consistent_a with_o looseness_n be_v never_o to_o be_v take_v for_o the_o true_a answer_n of_o conscience_n for_o as_o we_o can_v keep_v communion_n with_o god_n when_o we_o be_v not_o walk_v in_o his_o way_n so_o we_o have_v no_o warrant_n to_o expect_v keep_v of_o good_a correspondence_n with_o our_o conscience_n because_o the_o language_n of_o conscience_n be_v god_n language_n therefore_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v keep_v a_o good_a correspondence_n with_o their_o conscience_n and_o it_o be_v one_fw-mi evidence_n of_o a_o sinful_a incapacity_n to_o discern_v the_o language_n of_o conscience_n when_o there_o be_v not_o one_fw-mi constant_a endeavour_n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o strain_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o every_o thing_n sermon_n ii_o 1_o peter_z 3._o 21._o not_o the_o put_v away_o of_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n at_o a_o former_a occasion_n we_o propose_v this_o doctrine_n from_o these_o word_n that_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v in_o man_n have_v a_o way_n of_o signify_v its_o mind_n to_o they_o concern_v their_o action_n to_o let_v they_o know_v when_o it_o be_v satisfy_v and_o when_o dissatisfy_v and_o to_o give_v they_o some_o sense_n of_o they_o called_z the_o answer_n of_o the_o conscience_n the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v that_o if_o it_o be_v so_o man_n and_o woman_n shall_v in_o all_o their_o carriage_n and_o action_n endeavour_v to_o know_v what_o sense_n conscience_n have_v of_o they_o they_o shall_v ask_v advice_n of_o conscience_n and_o take_v its_o answer_n before_o they_o act_n in_o the_o time_n of_o their_o act_n and_o when_o they_o have_v do_v act_v in_o prosecute_a of_o this_o use_n which_o be_v the_o main_a thing_n aim_v at_o we_o propose_v for_o clear_v it_o 1._o what_o this_o answer_n be_v which_o be_v especial_o to_o be_v look_v to_o not_o as_o determine_v simple_o what_o be_v right_a and_o what_o be_v wrong_a for_o that_o be_v do_v in_o the_o word_n but_o that_o in_o thing_n lawful_a and_o in_o those_o duty_n that_o as_o be_v say_v do_v not_o oblige_v ad_fw-la semper_fw-la or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n we_o be_v by_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n to_o try_v our_o particular_a call_n to_o they_o the_o right_a time_v of_o they_o and_o the_o right_a manner_n of_o go_v about_o they_o 2_o what_o way_n conscience_n make_v its_o mind_n know_v and_o give_v this_o answer_n 3_o what_o way_n shall_v be_v take_v for_o find_v out_o and_o obtain_v this_o answer_n 4thly_a how_o it_o may_v be_v discern_v to_o be_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n and_o not_o our_o own_o particular_a inclination_n and_o affection_n there_o be_v yet_o two_o question_n remain_v for_o further_a clear_v of_o this_o use_n to_o be_v speak_v to_o 1._o if_o even_o when_o man_n be_v desirous_a to_o know_v the_o sense_n and_o answer_n of_o conscience_n it_o may_v not_o be_v silent_a and_o no_o distinct_a clearness_n attain_v to_o whither_o they_o be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d such_o a_o thing_n or_o not_o or_o how_o they_o be_v to_o go_v about_o it_o or_o how_o it_o shall_v be_v time_v 2_o if_o conscience_n may_v sometime_o be_v silent_a or_o at_o least_o not_o answer_v so_o clear_o what_o then_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o that_o case_n as_o for_o the_o 1._o we_o shall_v answer_v it_o in_o two_o assertion_n and_o then_o clear_v they_o the_o 1._o assertion_n be_v that_o sometime_o in_o god_n wise_a holy_a and_o sovereign_a providence_n and_o in_o his_o secret_n profound_a and_o mysterious_a way_n of_o order_v thing_n it_o may_v so_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o man_n may_v set_v themselves_o to_o inquire_v at_o conscience_n and_o yet_o after_o inquiry_n not_o find_v at_o least_o for_o a_o time_n so_o clear_a a_o answer_n as_o to_o warrant_n and_o direct_v they_o what_o hand_n to_o turn_v to_o the_o second_o assertion_n be_v that_o sometime_o conscience_n may_v speak_v and_o answer_v clear_o enough_o and_o yet_o man_n from_o some_o one_o tentation_n or_o sinful_a distemper_n or_o another_o that_o they_o be_v under_o and_o from_o negligence_n and_o sinful_a inadvertancy_n in_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n may_v think_v that_o it_o speak_v not_o clear_o when_o it_o do_v and_o thus_o be_v leâ—t_v in_o the_o dark_a so_o that_o conscience_n be_v not_o always_o to_o be_v blame_v as_o if_o it_o answer_v not_o when_o we_o think_v so_o for_o clear_v of_o the_o 1._o of_o these_o that_o conscience_n may_v be_v silent_a or_o not_o speak_v so_o clear_o even_o when_o inquire_v at_o we_o suppose_v it_o be_v clear_a not_o only_o from_o the_o experience_n of_o all_o generation_n wherein_o believer_n if_o put_v to_o speak_v will_v declare_v that_o they_o have_v sometime_o be_v very_o desirous_a of_o light_n and_o clearness_n concern_v their_o be_v call_v to_o this_o or_o that_o place_n station_n or_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n as_o also_o it_o may_v be_v as_o to_o the_o way_n and_o time_n of_o perform_v some_o call_v for_o duty_n and_o yet_o have_v not_o attain_v to_o clearness_n therein_o this_o one_o thing_n will_v both_o clear_v and_o give_v the_o reason_n of_o it_o viz._n that_o conscience_n be_v god_n deputy_n whereby_o his_o mind_n be_v make_v know_v can_v speak_v when_o he_o keep_v up_o himself_o and_o see_v he_o may_v and_o will_v now_o and_o then_o keep_v up_o himself_o for_o a_o time_n conscience_n during_o that_o time_n may_v and_o must_v be_v silent_a because_o conscience_n can_v speak_v but_o according_a to_o his_o order_n and_o there_o be_v wise_a and_o holy_a reason_n move_v he_o to_o speak_v so_o to_o keep_v up_o his_o mind_n and_o that_o he_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n and_o respect_n deal_v with_o other_o as_o it_o be_v say_v he_o deal_v with_o saul_n who_o in_o a_o great_a strait_n he_o
have_v not_o one_o word_n to_o speak_v but_o to_o they_o to_o who_o god_n speak_v a_o five_o and_o last_o case_n be_v when_o man_n be_v drive_v and_o stir_v up_o to_o seek_v to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n from_o a_o corrupt_a or_o selfie_v principle_n and_o for_o such_o or_o such_o a_o selfy_a end_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o man_n seek_v clearness_n and_o resolution_n from_o their_o conscience_n anent_o such_o one_fw-mi estate_n of_o life_n such_o a_o calling_n or_o station_n or_o anent_o the_o undertake_n of_o such_o a_o journey_n or_o voyage_n and_o be_v not_o put_v to_o seek_v that_o clearness_n anent_o they_o out_o of_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n but_o from_o respect_n only_o or_o main_o to_o their_o own_o interest_n profit_n pleasure_n or_o credit_n as_o it_o be_v with_o balaam_n numb_a 22._o 10._o that_o which_o do_v put_v he_o to_o ask_v god_n counsel_n be_v not_o regard_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n but_o love_n to_o the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n as_o jude_n call_v they_o and_o here_o many_o fail_n and_o make_v a_o silent_a conscience_n when_o they_o be_v seek_v clearness_n which_o may_v be_v know_v by_o this_o that_o they_o will_v never_o ask_v if_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o they_o to_o take_v such_o a_o calling_n or_o place_n or_o to_o engage_v in_o such_o one_fw-mi employment_n except_o some_o pleasure_n preferment_n or_o gain_v lead_v they_o to_o it_o and_o the_o reason_n why_o they_o ask_v the_o advice_n of_o conscience_n in_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o stir_v up_o to_o improve_v such_o a_o place_n employment_n or_o state_n of_o life_n for_o god_n honour_n but_o that_o they_o may_v with_o more_o quietness_n freedom_n and_o confidence_n follow_v their_o design_n and_o come_v by_o their_o end_n neither_o do_v they_o intend_v single_o if_o at_o all_o to_o follow_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n but_o will_v rather_o have_v conscience_n to_o follow_v they_o as_o be_v clear_a in_o balaam_n therefore_o when_o the_o answer_n come_v contrary_a to_o their_o inclination_n or_o affection_n or_o to_o the_o selfie_a end_n that_o they_o have_v before_o they_o they_o will_v ask_v over_o again_o as_o balaam_n do_v hence_o james_n say_v chap._n 4._o v._n 3_o and_o 4._o you_o ask_v and_o receive_v not_o because_o you_o ask_v a_o miss_n to_o consume_v it_o upon_o your_o lust_n as_o man_n may_v seek_v to_o be_v assist_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n for_o the_o praise_n of_o man_n so_o they_o may_v seek_v to_o have_v conscience_n to_o be_v on_o their_o side_n to_o prevent_v a_o challenge_n from_o it_o and_o that_o they_o may_v entertain_v a_o carnal_o confident_a expectation_n of_o what_o they_o will_v be_v at_o thus_o carnal_o profane_a and_o wicked_a man_n have_v often_o seek_v advice_n of_o the_o lord_n prophet_n as_o they_o do_v jer._n 42._o 1_o 2._o in_o these_o and_o the_o like_a case_n man_n may_v take_v pain_n to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n may_v make_v it_o to_o keep_v silence_n and_o not_o to_o answer_v they_o or_o if_o it_o do_v to_o answer_v they_o according_a to_o the_o idol_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n 2_o another_o sort_n of_o reason_n may_v be_v draw_v from_o god_n sovereignty_n so_o order_v it_o for_o his_o own_o wise_a and_o holy_a end_n to_o wit_n for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o people_n and_o his_o own_o glory_n as_o he_o afflict_v they_o in_o other_o thing_n though_o not_o without_o sin_n in_o they_o yet_o not_o always_o with_o respect_n to_o their_o sin_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o job_n trial_n even_o so_o when_o they_o be_v take_v pain_n for_o clearness_n of_o conscience_n and_o to_o get_v god_n mind_n in_o such_o a_o particular_a he_o may_v and_o sometime_o do_v blast_v all_o their_o pain_n so_o as_o they_o attain_v not_o to_o the_o desire_a clearness_n in_o it_o i_o say_v in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a because_o as_o be_v hint_v before_o the_o main_a business_n of_o their_o eternal_a state_n fall_v not_o under_o these_o debate_n and_o this_o we_o say_v he_o do_v in_o his_o sovereignty_n for_o these_o and_o â—he_v like_o wise_a and_o holy_a end_n 1._o that_o he_o may_v empty_a and_o humble_a his_o own_o people_n that_o when_o they_o see_v they_o can_v win_v to_o clearness_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o a_o particular_a of_o so_o little_a moment_n and_o consequence_n by_o make_v that_o to_o be_v so_o much_o their_o exercise_n he_o may_v hide_v pride_n from_o their_o eye_n and_o lay_v they_o low_o before_o he_o 2_o as_o in_o this_o he_o mind_v their_o humble_v so_o their_o upstirring_a by_o such_o mean_n he_o put_v they_o to_o be_v more_o serious_a in_o seek_v he_o for_o oftentimes_o when_o man_n find_v thing_n to_o go_v easy_o with_o they_o they_o be_v in_o hazard_n to_o betake_v themselves_o unto_o and_o sit_v down_o in_o as_o easy_a a_o way_n of_o duty_n and_o to_o â—lack_v their_o diligence_n 3_o he_o do_v this_o for_o trial_n to_o make_v discovery_n of_o the_o unsoundness_n of_o some_o and_o to_o prove_v the_o sincerity_n of_o other_o he_o will_v by_o suspending_a light_n and_o clearness_n in_o such_o a_o particular_a take_v a_o proof_n of_o folk_n tenderness_n whither_o they_o will_v forbear_v while_o they_o be_v unclear_a or_o whither_o they_o will_v untender_o go_v on_o it_o be_v a_o main_a thing_n that_o make_v trial_n of_o man_n tenderness_n when_o god_n by_o this_o mean_n lay_v as_o it_o be_v a_o bond_n and_o restraint_n on_o we_o and_o so_o put_v we_o to_o it_o to_o try_v whither_o we_o will_v hold_v here_o or_o proceed_v further_o if_o there_o be_v tenderness_n it_o will_v appear_v in_o such_o a_o case_n this_o discover_v saul_n 1_o sam._n 28._o 6_o 7._o when_o god_n answer_v he_o not_o who_o go_v away_o immediate_o to_o a_o witch_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o many_o when_o they_o can_v win_v to_o satisfaction_n or_o clearness_n in_o a_o lawful_a way_n they_o betake_v themselves_o to_o the_o nixt_a shift_n when_o other_o that_o be_v tender_a will_v halt_v and_o stand_v â—ill_o till_o god_n further_o reveal_v and_o manifest_v his_o mind_n in_o the_o thing_n as_o the_o prophet_n do_v 2_o king_n 4._o 27._o let_v she_o alone_o saâ—eth_v he_o of_o the_o shunamite_n to_o his_o servant_n her_o soul_n be_v vex_v within_o she_o and_o the_o lord_n have_v hide_v it_o from_o i_o 4_o he_o do_v this_o to_o make_v man_n prize_v light_a more_o when_o they_o get_v it_o know_v that_o it_o come_v from_o god_n we_o be_v dispose_v to_o think_v as_o long_o as_o we_o be_v not_o much_o difficulted_a and_o bring_v into_o some_o notable_a strait_n that_o our_o light_n flow_v from_o a_o stock_n within_o ourselves_o and_o that_o we_o have_v it_o at_o command_n thus_o many_o think_v little_a or_o nothing_o of_o be_v clear_a to_o marry_v such_o or_o such_o a_o person_n to_o take_v such_o a_o place_n or_o to_o engage_v in_o such_o one_fw-mi employ_v and_o station_n as_o it_o may_v be_v of_o magistracy_n or_o of_o ministry_n conscience_n as_o they_o think_v clear_v they_o at_o the_o first_o hand_n but_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v we_o to_o know_v that_o to_o have_v light_n and_o clearness_n in_o any_o particular_a especial_o of_o such_o moment_n be_v a_o great_a matter_n and_o mercy_n then_o so_o and_o that_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n to_o flight_n and_o undervalue_v it_o when_o it_o be_v come_v by_o a_o 5_o and_o last_o end_n be_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o more_o immediate_a dependence_n on_o himself_o that_o when_o conscience_n be_v silent_a they_o may_v come_v to_o he_o and_o count_v themselves_o to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o in_o his_o common_a and_o debt_n for_o any_o light_n that_o they_o shall_v win_v at_o and_o be_v make_v to_o know_v that_o conscience_n be_v but_o his_o servant_n all_o this_o be_v clear_a frow_fw-mi god_n way_n in_o afflict_v his_o people_n and_o from_o many_o instance_n in_o scripture_n the_o other_o assertion_n that_o i_o propose_v to_o speak_v a_o word_n to_o be_v that_o though_o it_o be_v sometime_o thus_o that_o conscience_n be_v silent_a and_o speak_v not_o at_o least_o so_o soon_o or_o so_o clear_o when_o it_o be_v inquire_v at_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o always_o so_o but_o sometime_o nay_o often_o conscience_n will_v speak_v and_o answer_v clear_o and_o our_o unclearnesse_n in_o that_o case_n may_v proceed_v from_o some_o one_o tentation_n or_o other_o or_o from_o our_o own_o sinful_a distemper_n or_o from_o our_o negligence_n and_o inadvertancy_n as_o i_o shall_v short_o clear_v in_o some_o case_n 1._o as_o a_o sinful_a ignorance_n in_o the_o person_n who_o desire_v it_o to_o speak_v will_v make_v conscience_n keep_v silent_a so_o there_o be_v a_o sinful_a
ignorance_n that_o may_v and_o will_v make_v we_o mistake_v conscience_n when_o it_o answer_v clear_o and_o this_o come_v to_o pass_v when_o through_o ignorance_n we_o know_v not_o nor_o can_v take_v up_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n as_o different_a from_o that_o of_o our_o affection_n or_o inclination_n nor_o the_o ground_n by_o which_o conscience_n do_v evidence_n its_o answer_n as_o young_a samuel_n take_v god_n voice_n at_o first_o for_o the_o voice_n of_o old_a eli_n thus_o man_n may_v have_v a_o impulse_n and_o some_o exercise_n of_o conscience_n aâ—_n out_o a_o thing_n and_o it_o may_v be_v tell_v its_o mind_n to_o they_o and_o yet_o through_o their_o ignorance_n and_o inadvertancy_n noâ—_n discern_v and_o take_v up_o what_o it_o say_v their_o exercise_n may_v continue_v and_o they_o remain_v in_o the_o dark_a anent_o the_o particular_a a_o second_o case_n wherein_o folk_n may_v remain_v unclear_a or_o mistake_v where_o conscience_n answer_v clear_o be_v when_o their_o inclination_n or_o affection_n sway_n to_o one_o side_n and_o conscience_n swey_v to_o another_o then_o ready_o the_o affection_n make_v such_o a_o noise_n and_o clamour_n and_o inclination_n and_o tentation_n so_o sway_a and_o drive_v to_o the_o contrary_a that_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n be_v not_o take_v up_o yea_o scarce_o hear_v even_o as_o when_o a_o case_n be_v propose_v to_o a_o judge_n and_o he_o speak_v sober_o in_o determine_v the_o same_o the_o unsatisfy_a party_n raise_v such_o a_o clamour_n and_o noise_n that_o his_o determination_n be_v not_o understand_v noâ—_n it_o may_v be_v so_o much_o as_o hear_v so_o it_o be_v when_o man_n be_v bias_v with_o their_o own_o inclination_n and_o affection_n though_o conscience_n speak_v yet_o these_o will_v speak_v out_o answer_v to_o convince_v and_o persuade_v to_o the_o contrary_a as_o it_o be_v with_o balaam_n who_o will_v not_o understand_v as_o it_o be_v nor_o take_v the_o answer_n which_o he_o get_v but_o go_v again_o and_o again_o for_o another_o or_o as_o the_o people_n of_o the_o jew_n do_v often_o when_o the_o prophet_n tell_v they_o clear_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o lord_n yet_o they_o will_v needs_o contradict_v he_o as_o we_o see_v they_o do_v jer._n 43._o 2_o and_o say_v it_o be_v not_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o he_o be_v set_v on_o by_o some_o other_o to_o speak_v so_o their_o inclination_n and_o affection_n be_v swey_v to_o such_o a_o side_n a_o three_o case_n be_v when_o man_n own_a particular_a interest_n lie_v one_o way_n and_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n swey_v another_o way_n as_o suppose_v gain_n to_o be_v on_o this_o side_n and_o conscience_n speak_v duty_n to_o be_v on_o the_o other_o interest_n will_v say_v that_o such_o a_o place_n call_z or_o station_n shall_v be_v take_v and_o engage_v in_o because_o it_o have_v gain_v and_o preferment_n with_o it_o but_o conscience_n say_v it_o shall_v be_v forbear_v and_o here_o interest_n sustain_v the_o dispute_n and_o carry_v it_o on_o tough_o and_o pertinacious_o against_o conscience_n with_o plausible_a argument_n that_o side_n and_o suit_n well_o with_o and_o much_o please_v and_o gratify_v our_o flesh_n which_o yet_o may_v be_v very_o easy_o refute_v if_o interest_n have_v not_o the_o great_a hand_n in_o propose_v and_o manage_v they_o hence_o the_o apostle_n 1_o tim._n 6._o 5._o speak_v of_o some_o perverse_a dispute_n of_o man_n of_o corrupt_a mind_n and_o destitute_a of_o the_o truth_n who_o suppose_v gain_v to_o be_v godliness_n for_o when_o gain_n present_v itself_o as_o easy_a to_o be_v find_v and_o come_v by_o in_o such_o a_o way_n it_o will_v ready_o pass_v for_o godliness_n this_o be_v very_o dangerous_a and_o make_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n to_o be_v either_o mistake_v or_o â—asten_v and_o reject_v a_o four_o case_n more_o ready_o incident_a to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n though_o it_o may_v be_v also_o in_o other_o be_v when_o fear_n and_o unbelief_n thwart_o conscience_n press_v to_o such_o a_o duty_n as_o suppose_v it_o be_v a_o duty_n that_o have_v many_o difficulty_n attend_v it_o as_o hazard_v of_o life_n or_o of_o state_n of_o confinment_n or_o of_o banishment_n fear_v and_o unbellef_n will_v come_v in_o and_o dispute_v that_o such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n can_v be_v duty_n though_o conscience_n say_v the_o contrary_a so_o it_o be_v with_o achaz_n isa._n 7._o 12._o i_o will_v not_o say_v he_o ask_v neither_o will_v i_o tempt_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o fear_n and_o unbelief_n he_o will_v not_o wait_v the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n neither_o â—an_v he_o abide_v to_o take_v god_n word_n and_o direction_n but_o this_o do_v not_o only_o prevail_v with_o wicked_a never_o do-well_a achaz_n but_o it_o be_v in_o a_o measure_n in_o eminent_o godly_a moses_n exod._n 6._o 12._o who_o in_o his_o fear_n and_o unbelief_n dispute_v against_o god_n clear_a call_n and_o say_v will_v pharaoh_n hear_v i_o as_o also_o in_o jeremiah_n who_o chap._n 1._o v._n 6._o allege_v against_o god_n clear_a call_n that_o he_o be_v but_o a_o child_n and_o the_o like_a of_o such_o excuse_n and_o shift_n as_o these_o be_v make_v to_o god_n own_o call_v and_o answer_n much_o more_o may_v they_o be_v make_v to_o the_o answer_n of_o conscience_n and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o question_n the_o second_o question_n be_v see_v conscience_n may_v be_v silent_a or_o though_o it_o answer_v may_v not_o be_v take_v up_o nor_o understand_v what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o and_o the_o like_a case_n answer_v 1._o we_o shall_v aim_v to_o know_v if_o our_o unclearnesse_n in_o such_o a_o particular_a proceed_v from_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n or_o from_o some_o tentation_n or_o distemper_n of_o spirit_n in_o we_o 2_o whither_o it_o flow_v from_o a_o sinful_a cause_n on_o our_o part_n or_o from_o god_n sovereignty_n 3_o we_o shall_v learn_v how_o to_o apply_v ourselves_o aright_o to_o take_v up_o these_o cause_n 4thly_a what_o it_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v do_v when_o none_o of_o these_o be_v discern_v 5thly_a what_o it_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v do_v if_o our_o unclearnesse_n and_o darkness_n continue_v or_o what_o general_a ground_n may_v warrant_v we_o in_o our_o choice_n or_o how_o we_o ought_v to_o make_v use_n of_o these_o general_a ground_n when_o we_o can_v take_v up_o particular_n for_o the_o 1._o direction_n in_o such_o a_o case_n we_o say_v when_o man_n have_v unclearnesse_n they_o shall_v inquire_v 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v one_fw-mi unclearnesse_n from_o a_o silence_n in_o the_o conscience_n or_o from_o a_o tentation_n or_o distemper_n in_o themselves_o and_o if_o this_o once_o be_v know_v the_o cause_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n win_v for_o if_o it_o be_v know_v to_o be_v a_o tentation_n or_o a_o sinful_a distemper_n it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v stand_v on_o though_o what_o we_o be_v call_v to_o thwart_o our_o own_o inclination_n and_o affection_n and_o speak_v out_o matter_n of_o fear_n and_o hazard_n as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o case_n of_o moses_n and_o jeremiah_n when_o god_n make_v the_o man_n to_o put_v his_o hand_n into_o his_o bosom_n as_o it_o be_v as_o if_o the_o result_n be_v to_o be_v have_v there_o that_o clear_v he_o and_o he_o yield_v and_o if_o it_o flow_v not_o from_o any_o tentation_n or_o distemper_n we_o shall_v look_v forward_o and_o inquire_v from_o what_o cause_n it_o come_v but_o it_o may_v be_v ask_v here_o how_o shall_v people_n know_v whither_o their_o unclearnesse_n do_v proceed_v from_o a_o sinful_a distemper_n in_o themselves_o or_o from_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n not_o speak_v at_o all_o answer_v to_o find_v out_o this_o will_v be_v a_o piece_n of_o christian_a exercâ—e_n and_o will_v need_v much_o humility_n and_o self-denial_n a_o heavenly_a frame_n and_o much_o serious_a prayer_n to_o god_n and_o though_o 〈◊〉_d be_v difficult_a to_o condescend_v on_o particular_a rule_n in_o 〈◊〉_d case_n yet_o we_o shall_v give_v some_o general_a consideration_n that_o will_v help_v how_o to_o find_v it_o out_o and_o 1._o see_v iâ—_n you_o be_v indifferent_a in_o the_o thing_n if_o it_o be_v so_o in_o it_o be_v own_o nature_n for_o if_o it_o be_v a_o tentation_n or_o sinful_a distemper_n that_o prevail_v you_o will_v not_o be_v indifferent_a but_o fix_v resolute_a and_o peremptory_a inclination_n affection_n or_o interest_n will_v sway_n you_o to_o one_o side_n and_o hold_v you_o there_o and_o therefore_o your_o great_a work_n shall_v be_v to_o see_v if_o you_o be_v single_a and_o unbiased_a and_o for_o this_o end_n consider_v 1._o if_o you_o have_v your_o choice_n what_o it_o will_v be_v and_o if_o the_o heart_n confident_o adventure_v to_o make_v the_o choice_n and_o if_o you_o be_v incline_v more_o to_o the_o one_o side_n then_o to_o the_o other_o it_o be_v presumption_n
they_o we_o may_v be_v help_v clear_o to_o know_v 〈◊〉_d be_v please_v to_o he_o and_o profitable_a to_o ourselves_o concern_v which_o counsellor_n we_o may_v not_o only_o safe_o but_o with_o high_a assurance_n say_v that_o they_o be_v happy_a who_o harken_v to_o their_o advice_n and_o council_n that_o which_o we_o have_v have_v be_v speak_v of_o from_o this_o v_o be_v the_o right_a way_n of_o discern_v the_o advice_n and_o counsel_n which_o the_o conscience_n give_v that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v the_o more_o able_a clear_o and_o distinct_o to_o follow_v it_o and_o in_o prosecution_n of_o this_o you_o may_v remember_v we_o come_v to_o answer_v that_o case_n or_o question_v what_o man_n be_v call_v to_o or_o what_o maybe_o their_o duty_n when_o after_o some_o pain_n take_v to_o know_v conscience_n advice_n and_o counsel_n they_o do_v not_o discern_v and_o take_v it_o up_o see_v experience_n tell_v we_o that_o sometime_o there_o may_v be_v darkness_n even_o when_o man_n will_v have_v light_a in_o answer_v of_o this_o we_o give_v you_o this_o direction_n in_o the_o first_o place_n after_o the_o premit_v of_o some_o thing_n for_o clear_v of_o it_o that_o such_o as_o be_v thus_o in_o the_o dark_a will_v once_o put_v themselves_o to_o it_o to_o try_v whither_o their_o darkness_n proceed_v indeed_o from_o conscience_n or_o from_o some_o distemper_n and_o tentation_n within_o let_v and_o hinder_v they_o from_o take_v up_o that_o which_o conscience_n say_v till_o once_o this_o be_v clear_a man_n can_v make_v great_a progress_n for_o if_o they_o shall_v study_v to_o have_v conscience_n speak_v and_o yet_o have_v their_o own_o ear_n stop_v this_o seem_v to_o be_v but_o lose_v labour_n there_o be_v some_o other_o thing_n call_v for_o that_o once_o they_o may_v be_v in_o a_o quiet_a and_o compose_v frame_n to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v to_o they_o a_o ad_fw-la direction_n for_o answer_n to_o it_o be_v when_o man_n can_v discern_v any_o temptation_n or_o distemper_n in_o themselves_o but_o that_o they_o be_v content_a to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n will_v say_v to_o they_o and_o yet_o can_v take_v it_o up_o than_o they_o will_v set_v themselves_o to_o try_v whither_o that_o silence_n proceed_v from_o some_o sinful_a cause_n in_o themselves_o just_o procure_v that_o silence_n of_o conscience_n as_o a_o punishment_n to_o they_o or_o from_o some_o sovereign_a cause_n in_o god_n order_v that_o silence_n to_o try_v they_o and_o to_o humble_v they_o and_o that_o they_o may_v by_o be_v keep_v a_o while_n in_o the_o mist_n more_o single_o give_v proof_n of_o their_o dependency_n on_o he_o for_o as_o in_o other_o affliction_n so_o in_o this_o sometime_o god_n will_v exercise_v his_o sovereignty_n and_o if_o it_o be_v once_o know_v to_o be_v for_o trial_n the_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v call_v to_o be_v sweet_o silent_a submission_n to_o god_n and_o allow_v he_o so_o to_o dispose_v of_o we_o as_o he_o please_v as_o that_o word_n isa._n 50._o v._n 10._o hold_n forth_o he_o that_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o see_v no_o light_n let_v he_o in_o that_o case_n stay_v himself_o on_o the_o lord_n he_o may_v be_v keep_v quiet_a and_o from_o thwart_v with_o god_n if_o he_o can_v take_v up_o that_o to_o be_v his_o design_n but_o if_o some_o sinful_a cause_n have_v procure_v this_o man_n be_v put_v to_o it_o as_o they_o will_v not_o lie_v under_o any_o effect_n of_o god_n anger_n to_o be_v deal_v with_o he_o to_o have_v that_o cause_n that_o have_v bring_v it_o on_o remove_v that_o in_o due_a time_n this_o sad_a effect_n of_o it_o may_v be_v remove_v also_o it_o be_v true_a that_o as_o in_o other_o case_n so_o in_o this_o it_o be_v not_o ordinary_a nor_o common_a for_o god_n to_o afflict_v his_o people_n with_o darkness_n without_o some_o sinful_a cause_n and_o we_o may_v easy_o know_v that_o among_o man_n who_o have_v corruption_n in_o they_o there_o be_v no_o trial_n that_o come_v on_o they_o but_o there_o be_v some_o cause_n in_o themselves_o that_o may_v procure_v it_o and_o so_o may_v keep_v they_o in_o the_o dark_a if_o god_n shall_v narrow_o mark_v it_o and_o hence_o we_o may_v gather_v that_o it_o be_v very_o difficult_a to_o discern_v right_o by_o clear_a evidence_n the_o one_o of_o these_o from_o the_o other_o yet_o we_o think_v in_o every_o case_n it_o be_v not_o absolute_o necessary_a for_o godly_a person_n to_o conclude_v a_o design_a controversy_n for_o sin_n though_o they_o can_v never_o go_v wrong_a to_o take_v with_o sin_n albeit_o yet_o they_o will_v not_o always_o bind_v it_o on_o god_n as_o if_o he_o be_v quarrel_v for_o it_o though_o he_o may_v very_o just_o do_v so_o therefore_o we_o shall_v offer_v four_o difference_n and_o then_o qualify_v they_o and_o give_v some_o direction_n how_o to_o walk_v in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o case_n first_o then_o we_o conceive_v when_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n and_o god_n refuse_v to_o intimate_v his_o mind_n by_o it_o proceed_v from_o a_o sinful_a cause_n procure_v it_o in_o a_o person_n it_o will_v ready_o look_v more_o horrible_a like_o and_o will_v have_v some_o impression_n of_o anger_n on_o it_o when_o it_o come_v out_o with_o such_o a_o word_n as_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 10._o 14._o go_v and_o cry_v unto_o the_o god_n which_o you_o have_v choose_v etc._n etc._n and_o there_o be_v good_a reason_n for_o this_o that_o if_o it_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o sin_n or_o of_o anger_n for_o sin_n it_o shall_v look_v like_a anger_n then_o when_o it_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o god_n mere_a sovereignty_n which_o may_v stand_v well_o with_o his_o be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o that_o person_n who_o he_o so_o try_v second_o we_o think_v the_o hide_v of_o god_n face_n and_o silence_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o proceed_v from_o sin_n as_o the_o cause_n ready_o point_v out_o some_o particular_a ground_n of_o challenge_n for_o which_o the_o conscience_n keep_v silence_n it_o have_v a_o word_n of_o reproof_n with_o it_o for_o some_o particular_a fault_n as_o in_o that_o same_o place_n you_o have_v do_v this_o and_o this_o say_v the_o lord_n though_o i_o have_v bring_v you_o out_o of_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n yet_o you_o have_v serve_v other_o god_n therefore_o now_o i_o will_v deliver_v you_o no_o more_o conscience_n though_o it_o will_v not_o in_o that_o case_n give_v a_o answer_n to_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v ask_v at_o it_o yet_o it_o will_v give_v a_o reason_n wherefore_o it_o answer_v not_o and_o will_v point_v at_o somewhat_o that_o may_v make_v it_o know_v that_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o its_o keep_a silence_n job_n be_v thus_o smite_v in_o holy_a sovereignty_n say_v to_o god_n chap._n 10._o 2_o tell_v i_o wherefore_o thou_o contend_v with_o i_o he_o be_v indeed_o now_o somewhat_o jumble_v be_v exercise_v by_o the_o sovereign_n holy_a lord_n and_o his_o exercise_n be_v not_o so_o much_o for_o this_o and_o that_o sin_n in_o particular_a as_o to_o know_v wherefore_o god_n deal_v so_o with_o he_o 3_o when_o this_o silence_n of_o conscience_n proceed_v from_o a_o sinful_a cause_n it_o leave_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o person_n in_o a_o far_o great_a distemper_n and_o confusion_n then_o whenit_fw-la proceed_v mere_o from_o god_n sovereignty_n for_o this_o have_v its_o rise_n from_o sin_n it_o have_v the_o great_a influence_n to_o the_o stir_v of_o corruption_n therefore_o in_o such_o a_o case_n as_o this_o man_n be_v much_o dispose_v to_o sret_v as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o saul_n and_o other_o who_o be_v ready_a when_o god_n answer_v they_o not_o to_o take_v another_o and_o sinful_a way_n of_o their_o own_o but_o when_o god_n exercise_n in_o sovereignty_n as_o the_o conscience_n have_v ready_o more_o quietness_n so_o there_o be_v more_o sweet_a submission_n and_o patience_n 4_o person_n will_v take_v a_o reflect_v look_v on_o the_o frame_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n before_o their_o darkness_n come_v on_o they_o 〈◊〉_d they_o be_v careless_a and_o carnal_a secure_a untender_a and_o remiss_a in_o stir_v up_o themselves_o to_o obtain_v light_n from_o god_n if_o darkness_n or_o any_o other_o affliction_n come_v on_o they_o in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o speak_v this_o that_o they_o be_v sad_o surprise_v in_o that_o distemper_n but_o if_o it_o come_v on_o they_o at_o such_o a_o time_n when_o they_o have_v a_o testimony_n within_o they_o that_o they_o be_v make_v conscience_n of_o their_o duty_n it_o will_v seem_v to_o say_v that_o god_n be_v not_o look_v so_o much_o at_o their_o sin_n as_o to_o some_o sovereign_a end_n â—e_z will_v bring_v abount_n by_o that_o rod_n if_o you_o consider_v holy_a joh_n who_o be_v the_o eminent_a pattern_n of_o god_n exercise_v a_o a_o man_n sovereign_o the_o case_n and_o frame_n
he_o be_v overtake_v in_o by_o his_o affliction_n be_v a_o most_o tender_a one_o rise_v in_o the_o morning_n and_o offering_n sacrifice_n for_o his_o child_n and_o as_o he_o say_v chap._n 3._o 26_o i_o be_v not_o in_o safety_n neither_o have_v i_o rest_v neither_o be_v i_o quiet_a yet_o trouble_n come_v that_o be_v if_o i_o have_v be_v secure_a and_o carnal_a i_o will_v have_v think_v the_o less_o to_o meet_v with_o such_o trouble_n but_o i_o be_v not_o at_o carnal_a ease_n but_o be_v serious_o at_o my_o duty_n it_o be_v this_o that_o make_v he_o that_o he_o can_v not_o see_v what_o it_o be_v that_o god_n point_v out_o to_o he_o for_o his_o exercise_n we_o will_v now_o in_o the_o nixt_a place_n give_v you_o these_o qualification_n 1._o that_o when_o god_n exercise_v from_o sovereignty_n yet_o even_o then_o there_o may_v be_v somewhat_o of_o terror_n reproof_n and_o challenge_v and_o somewhat_o of_o corruption_n stir_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o we_o have_v corruption_n in_o we_o and_o be_v not_o without_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n and_o therefore_o tentation_n have_v just_a ground_n to_o challenge_v and_o corruption_n be_v ready_a on_o every_o occasion_n to_o be_v â—ed_v and_o provoke_v we_o will_v give_v this_o as_o a_o second_o qualification_n that_o ofttimes_o god_n deal_v with_o and_o exert_v of_o his_o people_n be_v mix_v with_o some_o respect_n both_o to_o their_o sin_n and_o to_o the_o good_a end_n that_o he_o intend_v to_o bring_v about_o thereby_o to_o they_o and_o yet_o there_o be_v these_o 〈◊〉_d thing_n that_o we_o will_v look_v to_o in_o these_o case_n first_o that_o though_o corruption_n may_v stir_v yet_o comparative_o it_o 〈◊〉_d â—ar_v less_o in_o the_o one_o case_n then_o in_o the_o other_o if_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d affect_v with_o sin_n even_o when_o he_o be_v afflict_v in_o god_n sovereignty_n what_o will_v he_o have_v be_v if_o he_o have_v be_v chastise_v for_o his_o sin_n and_o surprise_v in_o a_o sinful_a distemper_n when_o his_o affliction_n come_v on_o he_o ad_o though_o it_o may_v be_v so_o for_o a_o time_n yet_o if_o god_n remove_v the_o exercise_n he_o will_v make_v it_o otherwise_o he_o will_v compose_v the_o heart_n and_o make_v the_o exercise_n effectual_a for_o that_o for_o which_o he_o send_v it_o as_o you_o see_v in_o the_o case_n of_o job_n who_o though_o he_o be_v somewhat_o discompose_v for_o a_o time_n yet_o before_o god_n leave_v he_o he_o calm_v he_o and_o make_v he_o lay_v his_o hand_n on_o his_o mouth_n chap._n 40._o and_o 42._o 3_o that_o even_o then_o though_o person_n may_v discompose_v and_o put_v themselves_o through_o other_o because_o they_o have_v not_o carry_v suitable_o and_o fair_a under_o the_o exercise_n yet_o there_o will_v be_v some_o honest_a testimony_n of_o sincerity_n when_o they_o look_v back_o to_o their_o carriage_n before_o and_o even_o in_o the_o time_n for_o sovereignty_n in_o such_o exercise_n will_v not_o prejudge_v his_o people_n interest_n in_o he_o therefore_o you_o see_v that_o job_n be_v clear_a and_o resolve_v in_o this_o that_o he_o will_v retain_v his_o integrity_n last_o we_o will_v come_v to_o show_v you_o what_o be_v meet_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n which_o though_o there_o may_v be_v considerable_a difficulty_n to_o come_v by_o yet_o a_o believer_n shall_v not_o be_v idle_a when_o his_o conscience_n keep_v silence_n therefore_o i_o will_v give_v you_o these_o three_o general_a direction_n 1._o that_o person_n will_v endeavour_v to_o compose_v and_o calm_v the_o frame_n of_o their_o own_o spirit_n under_o that_o darkness_n be_v from_o what_o cause_n it_o will_v if_o it_o be_v from_o god_n sovereignty_n exercise_v this_o be_v suitable_a that_o we_o study_v to_o comply_v and_o strick_v in_o with_o these_o end_n and_o design_n that_o god_n drive_v at_o in_o exercise_v we_o so_o such_o as_o the_o humble_v of_o we_o the_o emptie_v of_o we_o of_o all_o self-conceit_n the_o make_n of_o we_o to_o loathe_v ourselves_o so_o as_o to_o say_v with_o job_n behold_v i_o be_o vile_a the_o clear_a knowledge_n of_o our_o own_o feebleness_n and_o sinfulness_n our_o make_n great_a account_n of_o light_n and_o come_v at_o a_o more_o near_o close_a and_o constant_a dependence_n on_o god_n whatsoever_o that_o exercise_n proceed_v from_o this_o be_v always_o a_o christian_n duty_n and_o we_o have_v it_o warrant_v to_o we_o from_o job_n example_n and_o from_o the_o church_n example_n lament_v 3._o a_o second_o general_a direction_n be_v that_o whither_o god_n chastite_n for_o sin_n or_o not_o yet_o we_o will_v take_v a_o look_n of_o our_o own_o carriage_n that_o we_o may_v see_v what_o sin_n or_o sin_n we_o can_v find_v out_o that_o may_v have_v be_v ground_n for_o he_o thus_o to_o quarrel_v with_o we_o that_o so_o we_o may_v repent_v of_o they_o obtain_v his_o peace_n and_o recover_v his_o favour_n and_o friendship_n in_o reference_n to_o these_o sin_n this_o sure_a can_v be_v any_o bad_a fruit_n whatsoever_o be_v the_o cause_n from_o which_o it_o proceed_v because_o though_o god_n take_v not_o such_o narrow_a notice_n of_o our_o sin_n yet_o it_o well_o become_v we_o to_o take_v such_o notice_n of_o it_o you_o see_v job_n do_v this_o when_o he_o say_v to_o the_o lord_n thou_o make_v i_o to_o possess_v the_o sin_n of_o my_o youth_n we_o will_v look_v well_o to_o this_o and_o set_v ourselves_o serious_o to_o have_v our_o peace_n make_v up_o again_o with_o god_n and_o to_o come_v by_o the_o intimation_n of_o the_o pardon_n of_o these_o particular_a sin_n that_o if_o so_o be_v our_o darkness_n continue_v we_o may_v have_v some_o quietness_n of_o conscience_n and_o this_o may_v also_o be_v the_o way_n for_o win_v to_o the_o other_o it_o be_v sure_a very_o suitable_a that_o when_o a_o person_n be_v in_o the_o dark_a as_o to_o some_o one_o particular_a duty_n sober_o to_o consider_v how_o often_o conscience_n speak_v and_o i_o take_v but_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o how_o little_a conscience_n i_o make_v to_o practice_v clear_a duty_n and_o therefore_o i_o be_o just_o bemi_v and_o in_o the_o dark_a as_o to_o this_o this_o help_n to_o humble_a there_o be_v these_o three_o thing_n we_o will_v have_v you_o to_o look_v back_o on_o when_o we_o call_v you_o to_o reflect_v in_o such_o a_o case_n on_o your_o way_n first_o look_v back_o and_o see_v if_o there_o be_v not_o something_o amiss_o before_o that_o darkness_n come_v on_o that_o may_v have_v procure_v it_o and_o draw_v on_o this_o as_o a_o chastisement_n of_o that_o and_o here_o you_o will_v go_v back_o if_o it_o be_v not_o only_o some_o few_o year_n but_o seven_o year_n and_o more_o too_o and_o see_v what_o sin_n and_o sin_n against_o light_n in_o particular_a you_o have_v fall_v in_o and_o how_o when_o conscience_n do_v challenge_v for_o the_o same_o you_o take_v but_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o if_o i_o say_v it_o be_v after_o seven_o year_n yea_o thrice_o seven_o as_o josephs_n brethren_n be_v make_v to_o do_v you_o will_v call_v these_o sin_n or_o that_o sin_n again_o to_o mind_n 2_o look_v well_o if_o you_o have_v be_v serious_a in_o search_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n and_o if_o you_o have_v take_v pain_n to_o use_v all_o mean_n to_o get_v light_a you_o want_v light_a and_o it_o may_v be_v you_o have_v not_o study_v to_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o word_n nor_o have_v be_v single_a in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o obtain_v of_o it_o you_o will_v also_o look_v if_o there_o have_v be_v any_o defect_n in_o advise_v with_o conscience_n or_o in_o propon_v the_o case_n to_o conscience_n and_o discover_v the_o same_o you_o will_v endeavour_v to_o amend_v it_o and_o to_o make_v a_o new_a address_n as_o it_o be_v to_o your_o conscience_n before_o god_n for_o find_v out_o light_n three_o look_v back_o on_o your_o carriage_n since_o that_o darkness_n begin_v for_o christian_n may_v possible_o have_v be_v in_o a_o tender_a frame_n when_o this_o darkness_n come_v upon_o they_o yet_o because_o they_o get_v not_o light_a so_o soon_o as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o and_o because_o the_o â—ord_n keep_v up_o himself_o for_o a_o time_n it_o may_v be_v their_o impatience_n have_v break_v out_o and_o there_o have_v be_v sinful_a wrangle_n with_o god_n in_o secret_a and_o the_o heart_n have_v be_v somewhat_o raise_v that_o he_o shall_v deal_v so_o with_o they_o especial_o â—hen_o they_o have_v find_v that_o they_o have_v be_v honest_a in_o the_o main_a somewhat_o of_o this_o be_v in_o job_n who_o take_v on_o he_o under_o his_o dark_a exercise_n as_o himself_o confess_v to_o meddle_v too_o much_o and_o too_o bold_o with_o god_n secret_n that_o be_v too_o wonderful_a for_o he_o it_o may_v be_v often_o thus_o with_o
be_v most_o countenance_v by_o divine_a providence_n most_o feasible_a and_o likely_a to_o to_o make_v the_o end_n effectual_a a_o 3d._n help_v be_v in_o our_o singleness_n in_o our_o motion_n and_o in_o our_o yield_v to_o that_o which_o after_o examination_n and_o deliberation_n we_o have_v â—ound_v or_o suppose_v to_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o the_o general_a rule_n 〈◊〉_d that_o when_o conscience_n have_v propose_v the_o case_n it_o have_v a_o testimony_n in_o itself_o that_o it_o have_v make_v that_o proposal_n sincere_o and_o impartia_o that_o respect_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o main_o swey_v we_o and_o inâ—ned_v we_o to_o this_o or_o that_o hand_n and_o that_o we_o apprehend_v this_o way_n to_o be_v most_o conduce_v to_o that_o end_n in_o this_o case_n though_o conscience_n speak_v noâ—_n so_o direct_o for_o the_o clearness_n of_o such_o a_o thing_n yet_o it_o can_v ready_o quarrel_v with_o a_o person_n who_o have_v single_o endeavour_v before_o hand_n to_o satisfy_v it_o and_o who_o have_v its_o testimony_n that_o god_n glory_n be_v the_o thing_n that_o main_o swey_v he_o and_o nothing_o else_o this_o wâ—_n conceive_v be_v that_o whereof_o the_o apoâ—ile_n speak_v 2_o cor._n 1._o v._n 12._o this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v the_o 〈◊〉_d of_o our_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n these_o three_o thing_n be_v put_v together_o the_o conscience_n may_v have_v peace_n the_o thing_n itself_o be_v lawful_a because_o this_o general_a rule_n will_v bear_v it_o out_o in_o scripture-reason_n which_o conscience_n will_v not_o speak_v against_o there_o be_v only_o one_o word_n further_o i_o will_v speak_v to_o this_o purpose_n christian_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o all_o the_o difficulty_n lie_v here_o even_o in_o be_v single_a and_o sincere_a and_o indeed_o it_o do_v so_o for_o the_o want_n of_o it_o maâ—s_v peace_n and_o the_o have_v of_o it_o gives_z great_a ground_n of_o peace_n i_o shall_v give_v you_o therefore_o three_o qualifications_n whereby_o you_o may_v try_v your_o sincerity_n first_o consider_v and_o try_v what_o frame_n of_o heart_n you_o be_v in_o for_o if_o you_o be_v not_o in_o a_o good_a frame_n of_o heart_n it_o can_v hardly_o be_v say_v that_o sincerity_n sweye_v you_o there_o will_v therefore_o much_o tenderness_n be_v study_v and_o to_o have_v a_o deep_a impression_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n of_o the_o awe_n and_o dread_n of_o he_o and_o of_o his_o word_n on_o our_o spirit_n 2_o look_v what_o weight_n challenge_v for_o by_o go_v neglect_n oâ—_n 〈◊〉_d performance_n of_o duty_n or_o un-straightness_n in_o any_o of_o they_o have_v with_o you_o for_o sincerity_n be_v never_o ready_o more_o evident_a then_o when_o we_o have_v distinct_a reflection_n upon_o our_o way_n and_o the_o suitable_a sense_n of_o some_o bygon_n sin_n in_o that_o case_n we_o will_v noâ—_n be_v in_o such_o hazard_n to_o give_v way_n to_o or_o to_o comply_v with_o what_o may_v breed_v a_o challenge_n afterward_o 3_o try_v it_o by_o what_o conscience_n you_o make_v of_o present_a know_v and_o clear_a duty_n it_o be_v a_o good_a token_n that_o person_n be_v 〈◊〉_d when_o there_o be_v no_o clear_a duty_n but_o they_o make_v conscience_n of_o it_o labour_v to_o be_v universal_a and_o equal_a in_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o know_a duty_n and_o when_o they_o â—ar_v not_o hazard_v on_o any_o thing_n without_o clearness_n but_o when_o a_o person_n be_v clear_o convince_v that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v sin_n and_o continue_v still_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o and_o that_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v duty_n and_o continue_v in_o the_o neglect_n oâ—_n it_o and_o yet_o think_v that_o he_o be_v swey_v by_o sincerity_n such_o a_o one_o must_v needs_o be_v delude_v since_o in_o such_o a_o case_n no_o reason_n can_v be_v give_v for_o it_o i_o be_o â—old_a hear_v to_o say_v that_o in_o the_o great_a day_n there_o shall_v never_o man_n noâ—_n woman_n be_v â—ound_v to_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n of_o sincerity_n who_o have_v not_o aim_v and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v universal_o sincere_a the_o four_o help_v be_v that_o christian_n will_v endeavour_v to_o be_v in_o a_o very_a tender_a frame_n in_o the_o near_a communion_n with_o god_n and_o in_o the_o great_a measure_n of_o heart-melting_a and_o of_o â—ouring_v it_o out_o before_o god_n that_o may_v be_v win_v at_o though_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o christian_n to_o mistake_v even_o in_o such_o a_o frame_n but_o my_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o rule_n will_v be_v look_v to_o and_o lay_v before_o we_o and_o that_o we_o will_v study_v to_o make_v application_n of_o it_o with_o the_o least_o by-respect_n and_o with_o the_o great_a singleness_n and_o that_o then_o we_o may_v with_o some_o safety_n conclude_v what_o side_n to_o sway_a to_o i_o will_v not_o in_o all_o this_o have_v we_o debate_v duty_n but_o our_o particular_a call_n to_o duty_n this_o may_v be_v look_v at_o by_o many_o as_o a_o very_a great_a and_o hard_a work_n and_o they_o may_v think_v that_o all_o this_o make_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o business_n about_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n and_o it_o do_v so_o indeed_o i_o will_v have_v you_o consider_v 〈◊〉_d three_o word_n for_o answer_v such_o thought_n 1._o that_o 〈◊〉_d great_a and_o difficult_a work_n to_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n and_o you_o will_v find_v it_o that_o 〈◊〉_d iâ—_n now_o one_o day_n to_o your_o cost_n to_o have_v be_v a_o great_a work_n and_o â—n_o up-taking_a exercise_n yet_o we_o will_v not_o think_v the_o worse_a of_o it_o for_o that_o since_o there_o be_v nothing_o excellent_a that_o have_v not_o difficulty_n in_o it_o 2_o i_o will_v say_v this_o that_o you_o will_v consider_v that_o though_o there_o be_v several_a thing_n indifferent_a in_o themselves_o as_o eat_v and_o drink_v marry_v live_v here_o or_o there_o etc._n etc._n yet_o to_o we_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o and_o as_o they_o be_v circumstantiate_v they_o be_v not_o indifferent_a but_o when_o do_v they_o be_v either_o sinful_a as_o not_o be_v according_o to_o the_o rule_n or_o approven_v and_o acceptable_a as_o be_v according_a to_o it_o we_o will_v therefore_o be_v very_o watchful_a and_o tender_a in_o our_o do_v and_o use_v of_o thing_n in_o themselves_o lawful_a nam_fw-la perimus_fw-la licitis_fw-la 3_o let_v i_o say_v that_o i_o do_v not_o intend_v by_o what_o i_o have_v say_v to_o put_v your_o conscience_n on_o the_o rack_n or_o to_o stint_v and_o limit_v you_o by_o art_n as_o it_o be_v to_o find_v out_o light_a for_o i_o know_v these_o thing_n be_v not_o always_o explicit_a even_o in_o many_o conscientious_a person_n but_o that_o which_o i_o design_v and_o drive_v at_o by_o this_o discourse_n be_v that_o you_o may_v serious_o mind_n and_o look_v after_o the_o thing_n and_o endeavour_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o these_o rule_n on_o the_o matter_n and_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o your_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v these_o rule_v you_o allow_v yourselves_o in_o such_o case_n to_o be_v swey_v and_o guide_v by_o this_o will_v give_v you_o peace_n and_o nothing_o less_o will_v do_v it_o sermon_n i._n rome_n 9_o 1._o i_o say_v the_o truth_n in_o christ_n i_o lie_v not_o my_o conscience_n also_o bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o lord_n our_o god_n be_v the_o true_a god_n a_o god_n of_o truth_n even_o truth_n itself_o the_o first_o great_a original_n and_o eternal_a truth_n who_o by_o the_o most_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o his_o incomprehensible_o bless_a nature_n be_v infinite_o remove_v as_o from_o all_o possibility_n of_o be_v 〈◊〉_d or_o impose_v on_o by_o a_o lie_n himself_o so_o from_o all_o possibility_n of_o deceive_v or_o lie_v to_o other_o and_o to_o say_v as_o some_o dare_a man_n of_o late_a have_v do_v that_o god_n may_v deceive_v if_o he_o will_v be_v not_o only_o of_o harsh_a sound_n in_o christian_a ear_n but_o to_o be_v explode_v and_o execrate_v as_o insinuate_v that_o the_o glorious_a majesty_n of_o god_n might_n if_o he_o will_v and_o so_o please_v cease_v to_o be_v the_o god_n of_o truth_n or_o a_o true_a god_n which_o consider_v the_o identification_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n and_o attribute_n be_v as_o much_o as_o to_o say_v that_o he_o may_v if_o he_o will_v cease_v to_o be_v god_n as_o the_o strength_n of_o israel_n can_v lie_v neither_o be_v he_o a_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v lie_v so_o he_o love_v truth_n in_o the_o inward_a part_n and_o command_v man_n to_o speak_v truth_n every_o one_o to_o his_o neighbour_n and_o peremptory_o prohibiâ—eth_v all_o lie_v not_o only_o all_o pernicious_a lie_v on_o design_n to_o hurt_v but_o also_o all_o officious_a
both_o of_o they_o offer_v thing_n that_o be_v good_a and_o yet_o the_o one_o sacrifice_n be_v accept_v and_o the_o other_o reject_v that_o which_o make_v the_o difference_n be_v that_o abel_n in_o his_o offer_n exercise_v faith_n on_o christ_n sacrifice_n he_o offer_v it_o not_o as_o a_o satisfaction_n in_o itself_o to_o god_n but_o with_o respect_n to_o jesus_n christ_n typify_v by_o it_o which_o the_o other_o do_v not_o and_o proportional_o there_o be_v somewhat_o require_v of_o all_o these_o and_o more_o especial_o of_o this_o last_o in_o all_o action_n to_o make_v they_o true_o religious_a and_o christian_a action_n now_o for_o the_o second_o particular_a viz._n that_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n that_o make_v a_o action_n to_o be_v true_o religious_a conscience_n have_v somewhat_o to_o say_v and_o have_v a_o interest_n and_o concern_v to_o testify_v for_o or_o against_o the_o man_n i_o shall_v instance_n this_o in_o sixâ—orts_n â—orts_z of_o action_n to_o which_o all_o a_o man_n action_n i_o mean_v that_o be_v proper_o human_a action_n or_o rationaly_a deliberate_a action_n may_v be_v reduce_v as_o to_o so_o many_o general_a head_n the_o first_o sort_n be_v natural_a action_n as_o eat_v drink_v sleep_v etc._n etc._n in_o which_o what_o ever_o many_o think_v to_o the_o contrary_a conscience_n have_v a_o interest_n because_o they_o require_v the_o propose_v of_o god_n glory_n as_o their_o end_n and_o he_o have_v prescribe_v a_o way_n how_o to_o go_v about_o they_o aright_o the_o second_o sort_v be_v civil_a action_n as_o man_n be_v exercise_v in_o this_o or_o that_o lawful_a employment_n trade_n call_v or_o occupation_n and_o here_o conscience_n have_v a_o interest_n for_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o plough_v of_o the_o wicked_a be_v sin_n which_o when_o go_v about_o after_o the_o right_a manner_n by_o the_o believer_n be_v service_n to_o god_n as_o well_o as_o his_o pray_n the_o 3d._a sort_n be_v moral_a action_n such_o as_o be_v do_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o moral_a honesty_n as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n bargâ—neth_v and_o make_v a_o promise_n anenâ—_n such_o and_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v perform_v by_o he_o to_o keep_v his_o word_n which_o be_v moral_o good_a yet_o be_v it_o not_o true_o religious_o and_o christianly_o good_a except_o it_o be_v do_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o honour_n and_o here_o also_o conscience_n have_v interest_n for_o as_o a_o man_n come_v short_a of_o these_o thing_n requisite_a for_o make_v it_o a_o true_o religious_a or_o christian_a action_n it_o will_v challenge_v and_o accuse_v in_o so_o far_o and_o when_o they_o be_v present_a it_o will_v excuse_v and_o commend_v he_o the_o four_o sort_n be_v external_n duty_n of_o religion_n what_o be_v it_o i_o pray_v that_o make_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o formal_a and_o hypocritical_a service_n and_o worship_n and_o that_o which_o be_v accept_v as_o service_n to_o god_n be_v it_o not_o that_o one_o person_n perform_v such_o duty_n conscionable_o and_o christianly_o according_a to_o the_o rule_v prescribe_v anent_o the_o right_n perform_v of_o they_o and_o another_o not_o the_o 5_o sort_n be_v inward_a duty_n or_o grace_n such_o as_o repentance_n faith_n love_n hope_v etc._n etc._n of_o all_o which_o there_o be_v counterfeits_n some_o thing_n very_o like_o they_o which_o yet_o be_v not_o indeed_o these_o conscience_n have_v here_o likeways_o a_o concern_v and_o make_v a_o difference_n as_o suppose_v two_o man_n be_v â—orty_fw-la for_o sin_n and_o we_o maâ—_n suppose_v they_o to_o be_v someway_o alike_o or_o equal_o sorrowful_a and_o yet_o the_o sorrow_n of_o the_o one_o be_v account_v the_o grace_n of_o repentance_n and_o the_o other_o not_o because_o of_o the_o want_n of_o the_o requâ—sits_n of_o gospel_n or_o gracious_a sorrow_n or_o sorrow_n after_o a_o godly_a â—ort_n as_o the_o apostle_n call_v it_o 2_o cor._n 7._o v._n 11._o so_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o other_o grace_n where_o conscience_n will_v challenge_v and_o accuse_v or_o excuâ—e_v and_o approve_v according_o the_o 6_o sort_v of_o action_n be_v passive_a to_o speak_v so_o or_o suffering_n wherein_o conscience_n have_v a_o concern_v and_o tell_v the_o man_n that_o he_o shall_v suffer_v as_o a_o christian_a from_o such_o a_o principle_n and_o for_o such_o end_n which_o he_o through_o grace_n endeavour_v to_o do_v conscience_n speak_v peace_n to_o he_o and_o though_o another_o man_n suffer_v the_o same_o very_a thing_n yet_o he_o may_v want_v that_o testimony_n because_o he_o want_v the_o ground_n of_o it_o his_o suffering_n be_v destitute_a of_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v never_o think_v a_o thing_n to_o be_v of_o so_o little_a moment_n that_o conscience_n have_v no_o concern_n in_o it_o we_o can_v do_v speak_v think_v nor_o look_v but_o conscience_n have_v something_o to_o say_v of_o that_o deed_n word_n thought_n or_o look_v as_o it_o be_v circumstantiat_fw-la either_o to_o accuse_v if_o not_o as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v or_o to_o excuse_v and_o approve_v if_o right_a as_o to_o its_o requisit_n the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o trial_n of_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctified_a frame_n and_o for_o difference_v it_o from_o another_o conscience_n that_o be_v not_o so_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n and_o in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n be_v always_o meddle_v with_o all_o the_o man_n action_n not_o only_a when_o he_o be_v pray_v hear_v read_v or_o confer_v â—o_o a_o spiritual_a purpose_n but_o also_o when_o he_o be_v buy_v or_o sell_v eat_v or_o drink_v speak_v or_o keep_v silent_a abroad_o or_o at_o home_n alone_o or_o in_o company_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v very_o like_a that_o paul_n have_v say_v many_o thing_n when_o he_o be_v a_o pharisee_n that_o his_o conscience_n meddle_v not_o much_o with_o but_o now_o be_v a_o serious_a christian_a he_o can_v speak_v nor_o write_v but_o his_o conscience_n medle_n with_o it_o in_o a_o word_n a_o sanctify_a conscience_n be_v always_o go_v along_o with_o a_o man_n be_v still_o with_o he_o and_o let_v he_o know_v that_o it_o be_v with_o he_o and_o a_o sanctify_a man_n will_v needs_o have_v and_o love_v to_o have_v his_o conscience_n constant_o with_o he_o the_o word_n conscience_n in_o the_o original_a be_v significant_a and_o say_v this_o much_o that_o when_o it_o be_v right_a the_o christian_a and_o it_o be_v join_v together_o whereas_o a_o unsanctified_a man_n part_v company_n as_o it_o be_v with_o his_o conscience_n he_o love_v not_o to_o take_v it_o he_o will_v not_o take_v it_o with_o he_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n to_o he_o he_o will_v â—ain_o be_v rid_v of_o its_o company_n and_o it_o often_o refuse_v to_o go_v along_o with_o he_o it_o be_v never_o the_o worst_a conscience_n that_o be_v often_o meddle_v provide_v it_o be_v own_v and_o listen_v to_o when_o it_o meddle_v a_o sanctify_a conscience_n meddle_v 1._o constant_o 2._o it_o meddle_v in_o all_o sort_n of_o thing_n it_o put_v the_o man_n when_o he_o have_v speak_v to_o search_v his_o heart_n whether_o he_o think_v as_o he_o say_v 3._o it_o speak_v in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o interest_n itself_o on_o god_n account_n clean_o spiritual_o and_o impartial_o without_o all_o by-respect_n to_o the_o man_n the_o 3d_o use_n be_v for_o reproof_n to_o these_o that_o misken_fw-mi conscience_n and_o take_v none_o at_o all_o or_o but_o very_o little_a notice_n of_o it_o in_o the_o most_o part_n of_o their_o life_n ah_o how_o few_o be_v they_o that_o think_v and_o believe_v that_o conscience_n be_v concern_v in_o all_o their_o word_n and_o action_n and_o as_o for_o thought_n they_o be_v look_v on_o by_o such_o as_o free_v and_o therefore_o they_o never_o look_v what_o it_o say_v of_o they_o and_o so_o spoil_v themselves_o of_o its_o testimony_n and_o lose_v their_o labour_n in_o not_o respect_v it_o the_o four_o use_n be_v of_o exhortation_n and_o we_o will_v serious_o exhort_v you_o all_o to_o amend_v this_o great_a fault_n reprove_v viz._n the_o misregard_v of_o conscience_n and_o to_o respect_v conscience_n in_o every_o thing_n and_o to_o regard_v it_o more_o in_o your_o go_v out_o and_o come_n in_o in_o solitude_n and_o society_n in_o every_o thing_n you_o do_v suffer_v not_o yourselves_o to_o be_v cheat_v into_o a_o groundless_a apprehension_n that_o any_o of_o your_o action_n even_o the_o common_a as_o circumstantiat_fw-la be_v of_o so_o little_a moment_n that_o conscience_n have_v no_o concern_n in_o they_o and_o if_o it_o have_v than_o i_o beseech_v you_o take_v heed_n what_o it_o say_v and_o whether_o it_o testify_v for_o or_o against_o you_o and_o do_v not_o think_v that_o conscience_n be_v officious_a and_o medle_n in_o a_o business_n that_o concern_v
neglective_a of_o conscience_n it_o be_v certain_o a_o evidence_n of_o one_fw-mi untender_a frame_n in_o believer_n and_o where_o ever_o it_o be_v habitual_a and_o regnant_a it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o evil_a state_n for_o if_o one_o be_v a_o tender_a christian_a when_o shall_v his_o conscience_n be_v tender_a if_o not_o in_o the_o nick_n of_o the_o performance_n of_o a_o action_n for_o that_o be_v the_o time_n when_o he_o will_v or_o shall_v be_v level_v lest_o he_o miss_v the_o mark_n and_o know_v how_o fickle_a and_o unconstant_a he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o have_v a_o heart_n like_o a_o unsteady_a hand_n how_o shall_v he_o guard_v against_o its_o levity_n and_o unstablenesse_n the_o 3d._n use_v be_v of_o exhortation_n to_o advert_v more_o to_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n in_o perform_v duty_n o_o learn_v to_o reflect_v on_o yourselves_o in_o every_o thing_n and_o to_o ask_v yourselves_o what_o you_o be_v do_v that_o you_o may_v know_v if_o you_o be_v right_a or_o wrong_n if_o wrong_n that_o you_o may_v take_v with_o it_o and_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o if_o right_a that_o you_o may_v be_v comfort_v in_o it_o we_o conceive_v this_o will_v be_v a_o notable_a guard_n to_o tenderness_n and_o keep_v communion_n with_o god_n and_o a_o sovereign_a help_n to_o prevent_v many_o sin_n and_o much_o hypocrisy_n in_o our_o way_n of_o do_v thing_n even_o to_o be_v take_v exact_a notice_n if_o we_o be_v indeed_o do_v that_o which_o we_o profess_v to_o be_v do_v if_o we_o be_v speak_v to_o edification_n if_o we_o be_v pray_v in_o earnest_n when_o we_o pretend_v to_o be_v pray_v etc._n etc._n 2_o observe_v that_o when_o conscience_n be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o to_o the_o man_n that_o perform_v it_o and_o speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o he_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o paul_n con_n science_n do_v here_o he_o be_v sincere_a in_o the_o thing_n that_o he_o assert_n and_o it_o bear_v he_o witness_v of_o his_o sincerity_n when_o he_o advert_v to_o it_o first_o i_o say_v conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n and_o sense_n of_o a_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v well_o please_v and_o can_v speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o the_o man_n it_o can_v signify_v its_o mind_n at_o any_o time_n but_o when_o it_o be_v well_o pleaâ—ed_v it_o signify_v it_o by_o testify_v for_o the_o man_n and_o 2_o i_o say_v that_o not_o only_o do_v it_o testify_v its_o satisfaction_n with_o the_o action_n but_o with_o every_o thing_n in_o it_o when_o there_o be_v a_o right_a end_n a_o right_a motive_n and_o a_o right_a manner_n of_o performance_n when_o christ_n be_v due_o respect_v in_o it_o and_o make_v use_v of_o for_o strength_n and_o acceptance_n and_o 3_o i_o add_v this_o if_o man_n advert_v to_o it_o and_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v because_o it_o have_v something_o to_o say_v always_o yet_o man_n will_v not_o hear_v nor_o know_v what_o it_o say_v except_o they_o advert_v well_o and_o reflect_v and_o take_v good_a heed_n to_o it_o 3_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v very_o strengthen_v confirm_v comfort_a refresh_a and_o satisfy_v to_o a_o man_n in_o a_o particular_a action_n to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o this_o bear_v paul_n through_o here_o amid_o all_o challenge_n that_o may_v have_v be_v raise_v from_o seek_v of_o himself_o or_o from_o follow_v revenge_n in_o what_o he_o assert_n there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n say_v he_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v of_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v not_o a_o man_n action_n simple_o that_o will_v give_v he_o boldness_n confidence_n and_o comfort_n for_o several_a person_n may_v concur_v in_o one_o and_o the_o self_n same_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n and_o yet_o some_o may_v have_v a_o good_a 〈◊〉_d other_o a_o evil_a conscience_n in_o it_o be_v it_o but_o as_o to_o a_o man_n thought_n and_o opinion_n of_o himself_o for_o it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o commend_v himself_o but_o he_o who_o god_n commend_v that_o be_v approven_v when_o conscience_n i_o say_v bear_v witness_n for_o a_o man_n it_o be_v a_o very_a strengthen_n confirm_v and_o satisfy_v thing_n the_o reason_n be_v 1._o because_o conscience_n be_v the_o more_o single_a and_o impartial_a judge_n and_o witness_n and_o therefore_o a_o man_n may_v lay_v the_o more_o weight_n on_o it_o 2_o because_o conscience_n speak_v and_o bear_v witness_n with_o respect_n to_o god_n and_o when_o it_o testify_v on_o solid_a ground_n it_o be_v god_n testimony_n now_o when_o a_o debate_n arise_v in_o a_o man_n about_o any_o of_o his_o action_n the_o man_n himself_o be_v the_o party_n arraign_v the_o challenge_n or_o tentation_n be_v the_o party_n accuse_v and_o conscience_n be_v as_o the_o witness_n or_o judge_n that_o decide_v and_o be_v unbiased_n it_o bear_v witness_n and_o pass_v the_o sentence_n true_o and_o impartial_o it_o as_o it_o be_v say_v it_o be_v true_a he_o say_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o that_o sincere_o and_o i_o know_v that_o his_o thought_n and_o intention_n be_v honest_a and_o thus_o conscience_n decide_v the_o debate_n in_o his_o favour_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v it_o on_o his_o side_n and_o so_o confirm_v and_o comfort_v he_o the_o use_n be_v to_o exhort_v you_o to_o lay_v more_o weight_n on_o conscience_n and_o on_o its_o testimony_n and_o less_o weight_n on_o any_o other_o thing_n for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v your_o good_a meaning_n nor_o good_a hope_n as_o you_o use_v to_o speak_v but_o a_o sanctify_a conscience_n in_o a_o sanctify_a frame_n that_o will_v be_v find_v fit_a to_o decide_v in_o any_o action_n 4_o observe_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n speak_v ing_z for_o a_o man_n and_o his_o perform_n of_o a_o good_a action_n on_o the_o matter_n be_v separable_a that_o be_v a_o man_n may_v do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a in_o itself_o and_o yet_o not_o have_v a_o positive_a and_o approbative_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n concern_v it_o otherways_o paul_n need_v not_o to_o have_v attest_v his_o conscience_n if_o he_o have_v not_o know_v that_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n may_v have_v be_v separate_a from_o what_o he_o speak_v it_o be_v well_o enough_o know_v that_o he_o be_v say_v his_o heart_n be_v grieve_v for_o the_o rejection_n of_o the_o jew_n but_o the_o question_n be_v if_o he_o have_v say_v it_o honest_o and_o sincere_o and_o he_o assert_n that_o he_o have_v conscience_n its_o testimony_n for_o that_o as_o a_o distinct_a thing_n there_o be_v but_o too_o many_o proof_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o doctrine_n be_v there_o not_o many_o who_o speak_v good_a word_n and_o do_v good_a deed_n on_o the_o matter_n who_o yet_o have_v not_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o speak_n and_o do_v of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o amaziah_n 2_o chroâ—_n 25._o 2._o he_o do_v that_o which_o be_v right_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o not_o with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n so_o it_o may_v be_v say_v of_o many_o other_o that_o they_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o they_o want_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o it_o this_o will_v be_v further_a clear_a if_o we_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n that_o concur_v to_o make_v a_o action_n true_o and_o christianly_o good_a such_o as_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o other_o day_n many_o care_n for_o no_o more_o but_o that_o the_o action_n be_v good_a for_o the_o matter_n but_o it_o be_v moreover_o requisite_a that_o it_o be_v good_a as_o to_o the_o manner_n of_o performance_n that_o it_o be_v from_o a_o right_a motive_n to_o a_o right_a end_n do_v in_o faith_n by_o strength_n draw_v from_o christ_n and_o with_o a_o eye_n to_o acceptance_n on_o his_o account_n a_o corrupt_a end_n in_o prayer_n in_o come_v to_o the_o church_n to_o hear_v in_o read_v the_o word_n or_o in_o any_o other_o duty_n will_v spoil_v the_o action_n 2_o that_o there_o be_v different_a rule_n to_o try_v these_o by_o there_o be_v one_o rule_n to_o regulat_fw-la we_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o action_n and_o another_o to_o regulat_fw-la our_o manner_n of_o go_v about_o they_o and_o a_o good_a conscience_n look_v to_o both_o these_o rule_n and_o if_o anyof_o the_o requisite_a qualification_n to_o the_o suitable_a and_o acceptable_a performance_n of_o they_o be_v absent_a and_o want_v in_o so_o far_o conscience_n will_v withhold_v its_o positive_a approve_v testimony_n a_o good_a conscience_n its_o testimony_n be_v like_o the_o harmony_n of_o a_o well_o tune_a instrument_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o have_v all_o the_o string_n on_o
bear_v i_o witness_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o doctrine_n be_v because_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o hear_v what_o conscience_n say_v for_o it_o may_v accuse_v as_o well_o as_o excuse_v but_o we_o will_v endeavour_v to_o carry_v so_o as_o we_o may_v have_v a_o good_a testimony_n from_o it_o which_o it_o will_v not_o give_v nor_o speak_v peace_n to_o we_o if_o we_o study_v not_o to_o take_v it_o with_o we_o all_o along_o the_o action_n this_o be_v a_o notable_a way_n to_o curb_v sin_n to_o mortify_v lust_n to_o make_v we_o accurate_a in_o duty_n to_o keep_v we_o from_o post_v to_o speak_v so_o through_o our_o prayer_n from_o scutch_v through_o a_o chapter_n of_o the_o bible_n and_o from_o trifle_v in_o other_o duty_n why_o because_o we_o have_v our_o conscience_n to_o answer_v to_o and_o its_o good_a testimony_n to_o wait_v for_o this_o be_v that_o which_o give_v holy_a boldness_n to_o a_o christian_a when_o 1._o he_o know_v that_o what_o he_o do_v be_v right_n for_o the_o matter_n 2._o when_o he_o take_v good_a heed_n to_o what_o conscience_n faith_n and_o 3._o when_o he_o have_v its_o good_a and_o approbative_a testimony_n and_o we_o think_v that_o this_o be_v much_o of_o what_o that_o text_n act_n 24._o v_o 16._o aim_n at_o and_o be_v the_o main_a thing_n a_o christian_n shall_v exercise_v himself_o in_o even_o to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o in_o this_o and_o that_o and_o the_o other_o duty_n nay_o in_o every_o duty_n to_o have_v its_o good_a testimony_n when_o he_o begin_v when_o he_o go_v on_o in_o it_o or_o in_o the_o time_n of_o it_o and_o when_o he_o have_v close_v it_o this_o be_v it_o as_o i_o have_v often_o say_v which_o furnish_v he_o with_o holy_a boldness_n and_o confidence_n and_o give_v he_o much_o sweet_a peace_n and_o serenity_n in_o his_o mind_n that_o who_o ever_o and_o what_o ever_o speak_v against_o he_o he_o be_v at_o a_o point_n that_o he_o be_v right_a have_v the_o well_o ground_a testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o it_o but_o it_o may_v be_v question_v here_o how_o be_v it_o possible_a for_o a_o man_n to_o carry_v a_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n along_o with_o he_o in_o every_o action_n can_v he_o always_o be_v reflect_v on_o every_o word_n he_o speak_v and_o on_o every_o action_n he_o put_v his_o hand_n unto_o for_o answer_v we_o will_v first_o distinguish_v betwixt_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a inquire_v at_o and_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a inquire_v at_o and_o reflect_v on_o it_o and_o betwixt_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n and_o then_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o particular_a answer_n that_o then_o be_v a_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o do_v actual_o express_o and_o downright_o speak_v its_o mind_n and_o that_o be_v a_o actual_a and_o explicit_a reflect_v on_o conscience_n when_o a_o man_n do_v indeed_o express_o and_o downright_o put_v himself_o to_o it_o to_o inquire_v conscience_n sense_n of_o his_o action_n a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n be_v when_o conscience_n be_v not_o always_o actual_o observable_o and_o express_o speak_v by_o a_o positive_a approbation_n yet_o it_o be_v so_o indirect_o virtual_o and_o on_o the_o matter_n and_o be_v ready_a actual_o to_o do_v so_o when_o put_v to_o it_o and_o a_o implicit_a and_o habitual_a reflect_v on_o conscience_n be_v when_o man_n be_v not_o always_o actual_o and_o express_o ask_v their_o conscience_n what_o it_o say_v when_o yet_o they_o do_v it_o implicit_o virtual_o and_o on_o the_o matter_n and_o be_v in_o a_o readiness_n to_o do_v it_o actual_o when_o put_v to_o it_o which_o may_v be_v illustrate_v by_o the_o similitude_n make_v use_v of_o before_o the_o habitual_a and_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n and_o reflect_v on_o it_o be_v like_o the_o put_n of_o a_o instrument_n of_o music_n in_o a_o right_a tune_n and_o then_o we_o say_v it_o be_v in_o tune_n though_o none_o be_v play_v on_o it_o because_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v a_o distinct_a and_o harmonious_a sound_n have_v all_o the_o string_n right_a in_o tune_n a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a testimony_n and_o reflect_v be_v like_o a_o man_n strike_v or_o play_v on_o the_o well_o tune_a instrument_n and_o bring_v out_o actual_o the_o just_a musical_a sound_n that_o be_v habitual_o in_o the_o tune_a instrument_n before_o now_o to_o apply_v this_o particular_o in_o answer_n to_o the_o question_n we_o say_v 1._o that_o in_o three_o case_n a_o actual_a and_o explicit_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n and_o reflect_v on_o it_o be_v necessary_a 1._o as_o to_o a_o man_n undertake_v of_o any_o action_n or_o duty_n that_o he_o be_v clear_a in_o it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n 2_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o thing_n when_o do_v because_o it_o be_v that_o which_o give_v he_o peace_n for_o a_o man_n reflect_v on_o conscience_n and_o its_o testimony_n here_o be_v like_o play_v on_o the_o instrument_n 3._o it_o be_v necessary_a as_o to_o a_o man_n stare_n but_o 2._o we_o say_v a_o explicit_a testimony_n and_o actual_a inquire_v at_o conscience_n be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a always_o along_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n or_o it_o be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a that_o a_o man_n actual_o reflect_v and_o have_v a_o testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n always_o or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n along_o the_o action_n though_o habitual_o and_o implicit_o he_o ought_v for_o the_o keep_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v like_a to_o that_o general_a precept_n speak_v of_o before_o anent_o do_v what_o ever_o we_o do_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n at_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o our_o action_n and_o that_o be_v found_v on_o this_o where_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a that_o all_o along_o the_o action_n or_o duty_n in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n or_o in_o every_o moment_n as_o i_o just_a now_o say_v we_o shall_v have_v actual_a and_o explicit_a thought_n of_o this_o end_n viz._n god_n glory_n but_o if_o this_o end_n be_v intend_v in_o the_o whole_a current_n of_o our_o life_n habitual_o and_o actual_o in_o the_o entry_n of_o every_o particular_a action_n or_o duty_n though_o there_o be_v not_o actual_a and_o explicit_a thought_n of_o it_o always_o along_o the_o action_n we_o may_v warrantable_o expect_v on_o christ_n account_n god_n approbation_n as_o do_v to_o his_o glory_n so_o be_v it_o here_o as_o when_o a_o man_n undertake_v a_o journey_n to_o such_o a_o place_n it_o be_v sufficient_a before_o he_o set_v out_o he_o actual_o and_o explicit_o mind_v that_o place_n and_o that_o he_o do_v so_o now_o and_o then_o by_o the_o way_n and_o especial_o if_o he_o observe_v any_o turn_n off_o or_o hazard_v of_o go_v out_o of_o the_o way_n or_o if_o he_o have_v not_o often_o go_v that_o way_n before_o though_o he_o have_v not_o actual_a thought_n of_o it_o all_o along_o everystep_n of_o the_o way_n but_o to_o clear_v this_o in_o a_o word_n or_o two_o further_a we_o conceive_v that_o these_o three_o particular_o be_v necessary_a for_o keep_v a_o good_a conscience_n 1._o the_o habitual_a testimony_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v that_o a_o man_n conicience_n be_v always_o in_o a_o readiness_n to_o give_v he_o a_o good_a testimony_n which_o import_v three_o thing_n 1._o that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o the_o matter_n of_o his_o practice_n that_o it_o be_v nothing_o sinful_a that_o he_o be_v about_o 2._o that_o he_o be_v right_a in_o the_o frame_n of_o his_o spirit_n spiritual_a stay_v and_o compose_v 3._o that_o he_o be_v careful_o watchful_a to_o prevent_v what_o ever_o may_v maâ—_n his_o peace_n and_o to_o guard_v against_o what_o may_v distemper_v and_o discompose_v his_o spirit_n and_o that_o withal_o he_o be_v studious_a to_o keep_v his_o conscience_n in_o a_o good_a temper_n or_o tune_n to_o speak_v so_o that_o it_o may_v be_v in_o readiness_n to_o give_v he_o a_o testimony_n when_o he_o call_v for_o it_o these_o three_o be_v necessary_a i_o say_v in_o every_o particular_a action_n for_o keep_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o a_o man_n be_v in_o a_o thing_n that_o for_o the_o matter_n be_v right_a that_o he_o be_v in_o a_o compose_a and_o suitable_a frame_n and_o that_o he_o be_v watchful_a against_o any_o thing_n that_o may_v hinder_v or_o distemper_v he_o in_o prosecute_a that_o action_n 2._o though_o a_o explicit_a and_o actual_a testimony_n and_o reflect_v be_v not_o always_o or_o in_o all_o difference_n of_o time_n necessary_a yet_o it_o will_v be_v frequent_a and_o the_o more_o frequent_a ready_o the_o better_a though_o for_o instance_n in_o every_o word_n of_o prayer_n one_o can_v actual_o
with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o also_o with_o principality_n and_o power_n and_o spirtual_a wickedness_n in_o high_a place_n yet_o have_v this_o for_o his_o rejoice_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n not_o to_o insist_v on_o the_o connection_n we_o have_v in_o the_o word_n these_o four_o thing_n 1._o paul_n continue_a chearfulnesse_n notwithstanding_o his_o former_o mention_a 〈◊〉_d this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v 2._o the_o ground_n and_o rise_v of_o this_o spiritual_a and_o solid_a joy_n that_o no_o affliction_n can_v remove_v from_o he_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n in_o his_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n he_o take_v a_o back-look_a of_o his_o way_n and_o find_v his_o conscience_n noâ—_n simple_o speak_v but_o testify_v good_a on_o his_o hehalf_n tell_v he_o that_o though_o he_o and_o his_o fellow_n be_v account_v deceiver_n and_o unknown_a yet_o they_o be_v true_a and_o well-known_a etc._n etc._n as_o it_o be_v 2_o cor._n 6._o v._n 8._o 3ly_n the_o extent_n or_o amplification_n of_o this_o ground_n 1._o more_o general_o we_o have_v have_v our_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n which_o be_v to_o be_v restrict_v to_o paul_n conversation_n after_o his_o conversion_n in_o his_o ministry_n and_o otherways_o for_o though_o a_o natural_a man_n may_v have_v a_o blameless_a visible_a conversation_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o a_o renewedman_n have_v for_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o rejoice_v 2._o more_o particular_o he_o not_o only_o have_v a_o good_a conversation_n as_o to_o the_o general_a tract_n of_o his_o life_n but_o in_o his_o carriage_n towards_o the_o corinthian_n in_o particular_a with_o who_o he_o have_v be_v so_o much_o and_o so_o long_o conversant_a and_o more_o abundant_o to_o youward_n what_o ever_o they_o may_v through_o the_o suggestion_n and_o instigation_n of_o false_a teacher_n have_v be_v dispose_v and_o ready_a to_o upbraid_v he_o with_o yet_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o sincerity_n and_o integrity_n as_o to_o what_o all_o the_o world_n can_v say_v of_o he_o which_o he_o allege_v and_o more_o abundant_o towards_o you_o partly_o to_o show_v his_o distinctnes_n in_o search_v his_o conscience_n not_o by_o the_o lump_n to_o speak_v so_o but_o as_o to_o the_o several_a part_n and_o piece_n of_o his_o life_n and_o partly_o to_o obviate_v a_o objection_n or_o calumny_n that_o may_v arise_v among_o they_o wheâ—e_v his_o conversation_n be_v most_o and_o most_o carp_v at_o 4_o we_o have_v the_o character_n whereby_o he_o confirm_v this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n or_o the_o qualification_n of_o it_o whereby_o his_o confidence_n of_o have_v it_o be_v confirm_v which_o be_v four_o the_o 1._o whereof_o be_v negative_a not_o by_o fleshly_a wisdom_n not_o seek_v my_o own_o end_n nor_o my_o own_o good_a in_o a_o carnal_a way_n neither_o by_o carnal_a reason_n prosecute_a the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n the_o other_o three_o be_v positive_a the_o 2._o be_v simplicity_n that_o be_v a_o holy_a singleness_n in_o reference_n to_o the_o end_n he_o be_v a_o straight_a upright_o single_a man_n and_o in_o nothing_o double_a the_o 3d._n be_v that_o be_v be_v in_o godly_a sincerity_n and_o this_o not_o only_o as_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o gross_a hypocrisy_n and_o dissimulatiion_n but_o as_o it_o differ_v from_o mere_a moral_a honesty_n he_o walk_v not_o only_o in_o a_o civil_a moral_a honest_a way_n as_o mere_o moral_a and_o civil_a man_n use_v to_o do_v in_o their_o barganing_n and_o other_o deal_n but_o in_o godly_a sincerity_n do_v every_o thing_n as_o in_o god_n sight_n as_o he_o say_v of_o himself_o chap._n 2._o v._n last_o we_o be_v not_o as_o many_o who_o corrupt_v the_o word_n of_o god_n but_o as_o of_o sincerity_n as_o of_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n speak_v we_o in_o christ_n the_o 4._o character_n whereby_o he_o prove_v that_o he_o have_v this_o testimony_n and_o be_v assure_v of_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o what_o he_o do_v by_o his_o own_o strength_n or_o by_o the_o strength_n of_o nature_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o show_v as_o we_o say_v before_o that_o this_o testimony_n reach_v no_o further_a than_o from_o the_o time_n of_o his_o conversion_n the_o first_o of_o these_o positive_a character_n or_o evidence_n show_v the_o singleness_n of_o his_o end_n the_o second_o show_v his_o singleness_n in_o the_o way_n of_o prosecute_a that_o end_n the_o three_o show_v the_o principle_n whereby_o or_o where_o from_o he_o act_v it_o be_v not_o carnal_a reason_n that_o give_v he_o counsel_n nor_o nature_n that_o strengthen_v he_o but_o grace_n in_o these_o word_n then_o we_o have_v first_o a_o short_a and_o sweet_a compend_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o comfortable_a life_n and_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2._o we_o have_v the_o way_n how_o to_o attain_v and_o how_o to_o entertain_v and_o maintain_v the_o same_o the_o apostle_n in_o a_o word_n be_v now_o put_v to_o it_o and_o have_v both_o foe_n and_o friend_n on_o his_o top_n he_o take_v a_o back_n look_v of_o his_o life_n and_o reflect_v on_o what_o be_v his_o carriage_n towards_o all_o man_n and_o towards_o the_o corinthian_o more_o particular_o and_o find_v his_o conscience_n testify_v for_o he_o as_o to_o both_o and_o on_o this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n well_o prove_v and_o make_v out_o he_o quiet_o settle_v and_o joyful_o cheer_v himself_o have_v already_o speak_v of_o what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n before_o and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o our_o do_v any_o thing_n we_o have_v now_o choose_v these_o word_n to_o show_v what_o use_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o conscience_n in_o reference_n to_o what_o be_v past_a not_o to_o stand_v on_o every_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v observe_v from_o they_o we_o shall_v astrick_n ourselves_o to_o this_o scope_n viz._n to_o point_n out_o the_o right_a use_n make_v of_o conscience_n it_o be_v sense_n and_o testimony_n of_o our_o way_n and_o action_n after_o they_o be_v pass_v and_o the_o duty_n of_o a_o believer_n in_o try_v his_o by-gone_a course_n of_o life_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o as_o to_o conscience_n it_o be_v testimony_n of_o it_o or_o as_o to_o what_o conscience_n can_v say_v concern_v it_o 1._o then_o observe_v but_o in_o pass_v that_o conscience_n can_v signify_v its_o mind_n to_o a_o man_n concern_v his_o action_n and_o conversation_n of_o a_o long_a time_n past_a so_o that_o though_o he_o have_v be_v in_o such_o a_o country_n among_o such_o a_o people_n about_o such_o and_o such_o a_o action_n many_o year_n ago_o conscience_n reflect_v upon_o have_v a_o faculty_n to_o speak_v so_o of_o signify_v its_o sense_n thereof_o as_o of_o every_o other_o action_n of_o his_o life_n much_o of_o paul_n time_n be_v now_o past_a and_o a_o part_n of_o it_o in_o the_o ministry_n at_o corinth_n yet_o look_v so_o far_o back_o his_o conscience_n give_v he_o this_o testimony_n which_o will_v be_v further_o clear_v if_o we_o consider_v first_o the_o experience_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o attest_v their_o conscience_n in_o past_a and_o in_o long_a since_o past_a action_n naâ—_n we_o suppose_v there_o be_v few_o or_o rather_o none_o at_o all_o but_o their_o conscience_n will_v sometime_o challenge_v they_o for_o aâ—_n evil_a action_n that_o be_v by_o their_o hand_n and_o that_o for_o a_o considerable_a time_n josephs_n brethren_n be_v a_o famous_a instance_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o now_o if_o it_o can_v challenge_v or_o accuse_v it_o can_v also_o excuse_v and_o approve_v a_o man_n and_o testify_v for_o he_o when_o he_o have_v do_v well_o for_o excuse_v be_v as_o extensive_a in_o a_o good_a case_n as_o accuse_v be_v in_o a_o evil_a 2._o it_o be_v clear_a also_o from_o the_o office_n of_o the_o conscience_n which_o as_o we_o show_v be_v not_o only_o to_o dictat_fw-la and_o to_o be_v a_o observe_a companion_n but_o to_o be_v a_o judge_n which_o suppose_v for_o ordinary_a the_o thing_n to_o be_v pass_v therefore_o 1_o john_n 3._o 22._o both_o the_o condemn_a and_o absolve_v of_o the_o heart_n be_v speak_v of_o which_o infer_v that_o the_o conscience_n call_v there_o the_o heart_n have_v a_o way_n of_o recognoscing_a of_o and_o pass_a sentence_n on_o a_o man_n way_n and_o action_n not_o only_o while_o they_o be_v a_o do_v but_o when_o past_a 2_o observe_v which_o be_v that_o we_o main_o intend_v to_o speak_v to_o that_o it_o be_v a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n and_o of_o the_o practice_n of_o â—_o christian_n to_o be_v reflect_v on_o his_o by-gone_a way_n and_o try_v what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o not_o only_o as_o i_o have_v often_o aid_v to_o deliberat_fw-la and_o advise_v with_o conscience_n before_o and_o to_o carry_v conscience_n along_o in_o
mind_v to_o balk_v â—one_n but_o to_o go_v through_o all_o before_o you_o give_v over_o the_o work_n it_o will_v be_v better_a to_o betake_v yourselves_o to_o the_o search_n and_o examination_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a duty_n or_o of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o day_n work_v and_o duty_n and_o thus_o you_o will_v win_v the_o better_a in_o on_o it_o and_o through_o it_o and_o the_o heap_n will_v grow_v the_o less_o but_o meddle_v not_o with_o another_o till_o you_o have_v with_o some_o suitableness_n dispatch_v and_o put_v by_o this_o 3_o if_o you_o can_v win_v for_o the_o time_n so_o to_o fix_v on_o particular_n take_v your_o confuse_a condition_n such_o as_o it_o be_v to_o think_v on_o a_o while_n and_o look_v not_o at_o this_o as_o nothing_o that_o you_o have_v find_v your_o condition_n to_o be_v confuse_v david_n condition_n be_v somewhat_o thus_o when_o he_o say_v psal._n 44._o v_o 15_o my_o confusion_n be_v continual_o before_o i_o the_o take_n and_o lay_v of_o your_o case_n confuse_v as_o it_o be_v before_o god_n and_o your_o conscience_n may_v help_v to_o humble_a and_o kind_o to_o affect_v your_o heart_n 4_o the_o more_o confuse_a your_o case_n be_v seek_v to_o take_v it_o so_o much_o the_o more_o to_o god_n and_o to_o draw_v the_o near_a to_o he_o let_v it_o be_v make_v a_o motive_n to_o set_v you_o on_o to_o deal_v the_o more_o serious_o with_o he_o to_o dispel_v your_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n as_o jeâ—_n do_v while_o he_o say_v chap._n 10._o v._n 15._o i_o be_o full_a of_o confusion_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o my_o affliction_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v lord_n i_o can_v rid_v noâ—_n order_n my_o case_n therefore_o see_v thou_o to_o it_o and_o give_v i_o clearness_n for_o though_o a_o person_n have_v a_o confuse_a condition_n yet_o he_o may_v be_v somewhat_o distinct_a in_o lay_v it_o out_o before_o god_n as_o it_o be_v and_o may_v be_v clear_a in_o what_o conscience_n say_v of_o it_o when_o it_o say_v that_o it_o be_v confuse_v 5_o whether_o our_o condition_n be_v confuse_v or_o noâ—_n we_o will_v be_v suitable_o affect_v with_o every_o particular_a that_o we_o find_v in_o it_o and_o this_o may_v be_v one_o reason_n of_o our_o confusion_n that_o we_o have_v more_o clearness_n than_o we_o improve_v well_o we_o see_v many_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n but_o the_o â—ight_n affect_v we_o not_o neither_o do_v we_o suitable_o endeavour_v to_o repent_v of_o the_o evil_n which_o we_o see_v nor_o to_o amend_v they_o nor_o do_v 〈◊〉_d flee_v to_o jesus_n christ_n to_o get_v they_o pardon_v and_o cure_v but_o when_o the_o little_a clearness_n that_o we_o have_v be_v well_o improven_v it_o be_v the_o way_n to_o get_v more_o but_o what_o need_n be_v there_o of_o more_o light_n and_o of_o more_o clearness_n when_o that_o which_o we_o have_v be_v not_o due_o make_v use_n of_o a_o 3d._a objection_n be_v some_o may_v think_v and_o say_v we_o be_v essay_v self-examination_n and_o yet_o we_o find_v much_o difficulty_n to_o know_v and_o take_v up_o conscience_n its_o language_n whether_o it_o be_v awell_v ground_v challenge_n or_o a_o approve_v testimony_n this_o objection_n be_v much_o like_a unto_o that_o question_n which_o we_o speak_v to_o alittle_o in_o our_o second_o sermon_n on_o act_n 24._o v_o 16._o viz._n whether_o conscience_n its_o impulse_n may_v not_o sometime_o be_v wrong_a to_o which_o we_o answer_v affirmative_o and_o do_v yet_o grant_v that_o it_o may_v mistake_v and_o be_v mistake_v by_o we_o and_o what_o we_o say_v there_o for_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v useful_a here_o towards_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o objection_n yet_o we_o shall_v now_o speak_v a_o word_n further_o to_o it_o for_o answer_v then_o we_o shall_v easy_o yield_v that_o it_o be_v indeed_o sometime_o difficult_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n to_o say_v so_o of_o conscience_n and_o to_o understand_v its_o language_n in_o reflect_v as_o well_o as_o in_o deliberate_v either_o 1._o through_o the_o dimness_n of_o people_n light_n that_o they_o scarce_o know_v the_o rule_n or_o 2_o through_o their_o be_v partial_a and_o negligent_a in_o compare_v their_o way_n and_o action_n with_o the_o rule_n but_o either_o hide_v it_o whole_o or_o at_o leâ—st_a some_o circumstance_n of_o it_o without_o bring_v it_o forth_o and_o lay_v it_o to_o the_o rule_n or_o 3_o it_o may_v be_v through_o some_o bias_n in_o their_o affection_n that_o make_v they_o unsingle_a so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v with_o a_o challenge_n when_o there_o be_v just_a ground_n for_o it_o or_o 4_o it_o may_v be_v from_o some_o unwarrantable_a and_o groundless_a prejudice_n at_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o way_n so_o that_o they_o will_v not_o take_v a_o testimony_n from_o conscience_n even_o when_o it_o give_v they_o a_o good_a one_o and_o therefore_o in_o your_o self-examination_n you_o will_v carry_v some_o advertisement_n along_o with_o you_o which_o will_v be_v helpful_a to_o find_v out_o the_o mind_n of_o conscience_n 1._o you_o will_v try_v whether_o conscience_n be_v impartial_a and_o if_o 〈◊〉_d speak_v to_o both_o hand_n to_o say_v so_o accuse_v â—n_o some_o thing_n and_o excuse_v in_o other_o in_o some_o thing_n speak_v peace_n and_o in_o other_o challenge_v for_o sin_n for_o if_o when_o you_o reflect_v conscience_n speak_v all_o or_o only_a peace_n it_o be_v certain_o wrong_a because_o in_o the_o best_a there_o be_v less_o or_o more_o guilt_n contract_v in_o what_o ever_o you_o go_v about_o but_o if_o beside_o what_o be_v right_a it_o point_v also_o at_o something_o that_o be_v wrong_n it_o be_v conscience_n right_a language_n on_o the_o contrary_a when_o you_o reflect_v if_o conscience_n speak_v all_o to_o be_v wrong_n though_o there_o be_v some_o sincerity_n in_o your_o aim_n it_o be_v mistake_v for_o when_o it_o speak_v a_o right_a it_o speak_v always_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o what_o he_o say_v be_v wrong_n or_o right_n it_o say_v so_o of_o it_o also_o so_o in_o the_o epistle_n to_o ephesus_n rev._n 2._o as_o the_o lord_n charge_v they_o that_o they_o be_v fall_v from_o their_o first_o love_n so_o do_v conscience_n yet_o as_o he_o tell_v they_o that_o there_o be_v something_o right_n in_o as_o far_o as_o they_o have_v labour_v for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o hate_v the_o deed_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o he_o hate_v etc._n etc._n so_o do_v conscience_n also_o testify_v the_o same_o and_o so_o in_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o epistle_n to_o these_o seven_o church_n as_o god_n be_v impartial_a in_o his_o testimony_n so_o be_v conscience_n when_o right_o 2_o you_o will_v advert_v to_o the_o ground_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v speak_v or_o to_o that_o on_o account_n of_o which_o it_o testify_v for_o you_o or_o against_o you_o for_o as_o in_o our_o forbear_n of_o one_o action_n and_o in_o our_o choose_n of_o another_o we_o be_v to_o forbear_v or_o to_o choose_v and_o proceed_v according_a as_o conscience_n hold_v ouâ—_n clear_a light_n and_o reason_n for_o it_o so_o upon_o the_o back_n of_o any_o action_n or_o duty_n perform_v when_o we_o go_v to_o reflect_v we_o will_v try_v the_o ground_n whether_o of_o conscience_n its_o challenge_n or_o of_o its_o good_a testimony_n if_o it_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v try_v well_o whether_o it_o be_v indeed_o a_o sin_n for_o which_o it_o do_v so_o if_o it_o approve_v and_o speak_v peace_n try_v on_o what_o ground_n it_o do_v so_o conscience_n will_v some_o way_n testify_v of_o the_o action_n but_o you_o will_v try_v if_o it_o be_v sinful_a or_o not_o according_a to_o the_o word_n ol_fw-mi god_n which_o suppose_v knowledge_n in_o the_o thing_n and_o of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n concern_v it_o wherein_o any_o especial_o more_o considerable_a defect_n even_o in_o conscientious_a and_o â—ender_a christian_n be_v wait_v with_o its_o own_o prejudice_n hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v as_o the_o apostle_n give_v we_o a_o accouâ—t_n rom._n 14._o that_o many_o of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n through_o the_o weakness_n of_o their_o knowledge_n be_v make_v to_o judge_v such_o and_o such_o thing_n to_o be_v wrong_n as_o the_o eat_n of_o such_o and_o such_o meat_n their_o conscience_n judge_v according_a to_o their_o knowledge_n when_o yet_o indeed_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o wrong_v though_o as_o the_o apostle_n there_o say_v to_o he_o that_o esteem_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v unclean_a to_o he_o it_o be_v unclean_a therefore_o we_o will_v be_v the_o more_o holy_o jealous_a over_o ourselves_o lest_o we_o find_v our_o peace_n on_o a_o delude_a testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n and_o for_o prevent_v of_o that_o we_o will_v put_v â—t_a to_o give_v its_o reason_n for_o and_o evidence_n of_o what_o
now_o be_v and_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v that_o the_o great_a difficulty_n shall_v not_o fright_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d nor_o faint_v we_o in_o the_o vigorous_a constant_a and_o close_a pursuit_n of_o it_o we_o shall_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o this_o piece_n of_o godliness_n in_o particular_a that_o lie_v in_o the_o conscientious_o tender_a order_n and_o disposal_n of_o all_o our_o action_n in_o order_n to_o win_v at_o the_o joyful_a testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n concern_v they_o have_v much_o difficulty_n in_o it_o as_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o natural_a levity_n waver_v and_o instability_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o mighty_o oppose_v by_o satan_n as_o greedy_a prejudicial_a to_o his_o interest_n in_o the_o soul_n yet_o it_o be_v so_o very_o excellent_a and_o so_o exceed_o useful_a and_o profitable_a to_o the_o christian_a as_o we_o make_v appear_v from_o our_o last_o discourse_n on_o these_o word_n that_o all_o the_o difficulty_n of_o it_o may_v be_v the_o more_o easy_o digest_v it_o have_v as_o the_o other_o duty_n of_o religion_n have_v when_o right_o go_v about_o its_o reward_n in_o the_o bosom_n thereof_o o_o what_o sweet_a peace_n what_o strong_a consolation_n and_o what_o unspeakable_a joy_n have_v the_o apostle_n here_o from_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n after_o discover_v his_o action_n to_o be_v so_o order_v by_o this_o serious_a self-reflection_n and_o examination_n whereof_o special_a notice_n will_v be_v take_v we_o shall_v therefore_o now_o proceed_v to_o observe_v some_o thing_n more_o particular_o from_o the_o text_n to_o this_o purpose_n first_o then_o observe_v that_o when_o conscience_n be_v well_o please_v with_o a_o man_n way_n it_o will_v give_v a_o testimony_n for_o he_o or_o when_o conscience_n have_v put_v a_o man_n way_n to_o proof_n it_o will_v not_o only_o in_o the_o general_n speak_v its_o sense_n but_o when_o his_o way_n be_v well_o order_v and_o square_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n and_o he_o in_o his_o design_n be_v find_v straight_o and_o to_o have_v take_v his_o aim_n right_a conscience_n will_v after_o examination_n excuse_n and_o bear_v he_o witness_v to_o his_o joy_n thus_o be_v paul_n deal_v with_o here_o by_o his_o conscience_n this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v say_v he_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n which_o be_v not_o simple_o conscience_n speak_v but_o conscience_n speak_v for_o vindicate_v he_o from_o these_o aspersion_n that_o be_v cast_v upon_o he_o or_o excuse_v he_o as_o the_o word_n be_v rom._n 2._o 15._o and_o testify_v that_o he_o be_v not_o the_o man_n that_o some_o man_n count_v he_o to_o be_v he_o have_v this_o testimony_n that_o in_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n he_o have_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o towards_o they_o in_o corinth_n which_o after_o search_n he_o find_v to_o be_v so_o that_o which_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n make_v this_o out_o for_o conscience_n when_o right_a speak_v of_o thing_n as_o they_o indeed_o be_v and_o hold_v forth_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o give_v sentence_n according_a to_o it_o when_o he_o be_v well_o please_v to_o declare_v and_o pronounce_v pardon_n and_o peace_n and_o when_o he_o be_v displease_v to_o declare_v anger_n and_o as_o it_o be_v to_o denunce_v war._n whereof_o we_o will_v make_v this_o use_n even_o to_o learn_v not_o only_o to_o study_v to_o know_v take_v up_o and_o discern_v the_o work_n 〈◊〉_d conscience_n in_o challenge_v and_o accuse_v which_o for_o â—ost_o part_v it_o do_v have_v so_o much_o ground_n to_o do_v so_o but_o â—so_o its_o work_n in_o absolve_v excuse_v and_o give_v a_o good_a testimony_n 2_o observe_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n or_o its_o bear_a witness_n for_o a_o man_n after_o reflect_v upon_o and_o search_v of_o his_o way_n be_v exceed_v refreshful_a comfortable_a and_o joyous_a this_o be_v our_o rejoice_v say_v the_o apostle_n the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o heartsome_a refresh_v and_o cheer_v to_o a_o tender_a walker_n neither_o can_v there_o ready_o be_v any_o thing_n on_o this_o side_n heaven_n more_o solacious_a and_o joyous_a to_o he_o then_o when_o he_o have_v examine_v his_o conscience_n to_o find_v it_o testify_v for_o he_o this_o be_v the_o great_a ground_n of_o paul_n joy_n and_o rejoice_v though_o he_o live_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o manifold_a temptation_n and_o tribulation_n and_o be_v account_v to_o be_v the_o most_o contemptible_a of_o man_n even_o as_o the_o filth_n of_o the_o world_n and_o the_o offscouring_a of_o all_o thing_n yet_o he_o have_v solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n on_o this_o ground_n that_o when_o he_o look_v back_o on_o his_o way_n in_o the_o discharge_n of_o his_o ministry_n his_o conscience_n bear_v he_o witness_v that_o he_o have_v be_v single_a and_o faithful_a therein_o and_o as_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o paul_n so_o it_o have_v be_v with_o many_o of_o the_o lord_n people_n who_o have_v humble_o boast_v and_o rejoice_v in_o this_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n within_o when_o man_n have_v speak_v evil_a of_o they_o reproach_v and_o revile_v they_o without_o for_o further_o clear_v of_o this_o point_n we_o will_v consider_v a_o little_a 1._o some_o particular_a case_n wherein_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n prove_v in_o a_o special_a manner_n refresh_v and_o rejoice_v 2_o we_o will_v consider_v the_o particular_a ground_n and_o attendant_n of_o this_o refresh_n and_o joy_n whereby_o we_o will_v easy_o see_v that_o this_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n for_o a_o man_n upon_o the_o search_n of_o his_o way_n be_v a_o singular_o good_a thing_n for_o before_o a_o man_n search_v his_o way_n he_o can_v solid_o acquiesce_v in_o the_o testimony_n that_o conscience_n give_v of_o it_o nor_o can_v look_v on_o it_o as_o well_o ground_v because_o he_o be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v sure_a whether_o there_o be_v any_o ground_n and_o warrant_n for_o it_o or_o not_o whereas_o when_o he_o have_v suitable_o search_v for_o the_o ground_n and_o warrant_n where_o they_o be_v they_o will_v ready_o discover_v themselves_o to_o he_o as_o to_o the_o particular_a case_n wherein_o this_o testimony_n prove_v singular_o refresh_v and_o joyous_a they_o be_v these_o and_o the_o like_a 1._o in_o a_o case_n of_o external_a cross_n and_o trouble_n in_o the_o world_n none_o of_o these_o much_o move_v a_o man_n that_o have_v this_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n it_o give_v he_o sweet_a peace_n amid_o they_o all_o we_o see_v what_o mighty_a trouble_v paul_n be_v under_o chap._n 11._o v._n 25_o 26_o 27._o yet_o he_o can_v and_o do_v rejoice_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o 2._o when_o external_a cross_n and_o loss_n have_v sad_a aggravation_n attend_v they_o such_o as_o the_o contempt_n and_o reproach_n of_o the_o man_n of_o the_o world_n when_o he_o be_v calumnious_o represent_v as_o one_o that_o turn_v the_o world_n up_o side_n down_o and_o who_o be_v deserve_o so_o deal_v with_o conscience_n its_o testimony_n in_o that_o case_n give_v he_o peace_n quietness_n and_o joy_n which_o be_v the_o very_a case_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n here_o rejoice_v on_o this_o account_n a_o 3d._a case_n be_v when_o inward_a challenge_n and_o temptation_n accompany_v outward_a affliction_n when_o these_o be_v muster_v up_o before_o and_o make_v a_o assault_n on_o the_o poor_a afflict_a man_n and_o when_o there_o be_v some_o fearful_a apprehension_n of_o god_n displeasure_n bear_v in_o upon_o he_o then_o o_o than_o conscience_n testimony_n give_v wonderful_a quietness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v it_o do_v to_o holy_a job_n who_o say_v in_o this_o case_n chap._n 27._o v._n 6._o my_o heart_n shall_v not_o reproach_v i_o so_o long_o as_o i_o live_v so_o chap._n 31._o throughout_o and_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v solid_a and_o well-grounded_n quietness_n rest_n and_o repose_v of_o soul_n that_o calm_v a_o man_n in_o this_o case_n 4_o when_o the_o person_n draw_v near_o unto_o death_n and_o when_o this_o king_n of_o terror_n formidable_o muster_v all_o his_o force_n and_o when_o there_o be_v no_o escape_v out_o of_o his_o hand_n and_o when_o all_o comfort_n fail_v and_o stand_v by_o as_o so_o many_o mut_n not_o have_v one_o word_n to_o say_v for_o the_o die_a man_n relief_n or_o ease_v this_o testimony_n do_v then_o ready_o come_v forth_o in_o its_o strength_n towards_o the_o quiet_v refresh_v and_o rejoice_v of_o his_o heart_n and_o make_v he_o bold_o and_o without_o 〈◊〉_d fear_n encounter_v death_n as_o the_o experience_n of_o hezekiah_n and_o many_o other_o of_o the_o saint_n record_v in_o the_o scripture_n make_v clear_a 2_o consider_v whence_o this_o joy_n come_v or_o the_o ground_n and_o attendant_n of_o the_o joy_n which_o this_o
testimony_n yield_v which_o be_v fourfold_o 1._o it_o have_v with_o it_o inward_a quietness_n strength_n and_o comfort_n the_o well_o ground_v approve_v testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n calm_v the_o heart_n amid_o all_o storm_n of_o outward_a trouble_n or_o of_o inward_a challenge_n and_o tentation_n and_o put_v they_o all_o to_o silence_n it_o do_v fortify_v the_o heart_n to_o bear_v out_o in_o what_o ever_o trial_n it_o prove_v not_o only_o comfortable_a in_o the_o hold_n off_o challenge_v but_o have_v a_o joy_n and_o refresh_n flow_v immediate_o from_o the_o very_a testimony_n itself_o even_o a_o singular_o sweet_a joy_n that_o floorish_n and_o flow_v over_o and_o above_o these_o and_o keep_v the_o heart_n in_o a_o calm_a serenity_n the_o peace_n of_o god_n say_v the_o apostle_n phil._n 4._o 7_o shall_v guard_v your_o heart_n and_o mind_n through_o christ_n jesus_n conscience_n testimony_n warrantable_o speak_v peace_n be_v like_o a_o garrison_n plant_v about_o the_o heart_n keep_v it_o as_o a_o impregnable_a and_o invincible_a strong_a hold_n or_o fort_n so_o that_o no_o trouble_n nor_o temptation_n from_o without_o nor_o stir_n of_o corruption_n or_o challenge_n from_o within_o do_v soon_o to_o say_v so_o set_v out_o their_o head_n but_o it_o overmatch_v they_o and_o preserve_v the_o heart_n quiet_a in_o despyt_n of_o they_o all_o 2_o this_o do_v also_o accompany_v this_o testimony_n as_o a_o ground_n of_o joy_n even_o the_o clear_n up_o of_o the_o person_n interest_n in_o christ_n and_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o sincerity_n and_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n in_o they_o which_o be_v very_o strengthen_v and_o comfort_v when_o a_o man_n have_v put_v his_o way_n to_o the_o trial_n in_o the_o court_n of_o conscience_n and_o find_v it_o to_o be_v square_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o have_v conscience_n testimony_n therein_o for_o he_o it_o sweet_o evidence_n to_o he_o his_o sincerity_n and_o so_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o interest_n in_o christ_n which_o be_v attend_v with_o unspeakable_a joy_n 3_o this_o testimony_n give_v boldness_n and_o access_n with_o confidence_n to_o god_n to_o go_v heartsom_o and_o familiar_o to_o he_o in_o prayer_n under_o the_o multitude_n of_o temptation_n cross_n and_o reproach_n and_o be_v not_o this_o ground_n of_o great_a refresh_n and_o joy_n when_o a_o man_n may_v go_v to_o god_n and_o pour_v out_o his_o very_a heart_n in_o his_o bosom_n may_v not_o only_o tell_v he_o what_o he_o needs_o but_o also_o expect_v a_o gracious_a hear_n and_o return_v from_o he_o in_o whatsoever_o be_v needful_a if_o our_o heart_n say_v john_n 1_o epistle_n chap._n 2._o v._n 22._o condemn_v we_o not_o we_o have_v confidence_n towards_o god_n and_o whatsoever_o we_o ask_v we_o receive_v of_o he_o because_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o do_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v pleasant_a in_o his_o sight_n though_o the_o man_n be_v empty-handed_n for_o the_o time_n and_o have_v not_o in_o himself_o whereupon_o he_o can_v be_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n either_o by_o suffering_n or_o do_v he_o may_v with_o humble_a boldness_n present_v his_o suit_n to_o god_n and_o expect_v from_o he_o whatsoever_o be_v good_a and_o needful_a for_o the_o man_n himself_o and_o what_o ever_o may_v be_v for_o his_o own_o honour_n in_o he_o and_o by_o he_o 4_o this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v attend_v it_o a_o clear_n &_o up-making_a fresh_a and_o lively_a hope_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o of_o a_o comfortable_a glorious_a and_o satisfy_a out-gate_n from_o all_o the_o difficulty_n temptation_n and_o trouble_n that_o he_o be_v in_o at_o present_a or_o may_v be_v in_o for_o the_o future_a it_o will_v make_v he_o according_a to_o his_o measure_n say_v as_o paul_n do_v 2_o tim._n 4._o 7_o 8._o i_o have_v fight_v a_o good_a fight_n i_o have_v finish_v my_o course_n i_o have_v keep_v the_o faith_n hence_o forth_o be_v lay_v up_o for_o i_o a_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n etc._n etc._n and_o by_o thus_o clear_v up_o the_o christian_n hope_v of_o eternal_a life_n a_o entrance_n be_v minister_v unto_o he_o abundant_o into_o the_o everlasting_a kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n as_o peter_n have_v it_o 2._o ep._n ch_n 1._o v_o 11._o and_o must_v it_o not_o be_v exceed_o and_o even_o unspeakable_o refresh_v and_o joyful_a to_o the_o christian_a to_o have_v all_o these_o try_v together_o in_o his_o case_n even_o while_o he_o be_v here_o sojourn_v in_o the_o earth_n doubtless_o it_o must_v the_o first_o use_v of_o this_o doctrine_n serve_v for_o exhort_v and_o beseech_v you_o all_o to_o study_v and_o be_v in_o love_n with_o a_o good_a conscience_n its_o unknown_a what_o solid_a sweet_a peace_n and_o joy_n you_o may_v have_v by_o it_o o_o endeavour_v through_o grace_n to_o be_v so_o tender_a straight_o and_o upright_o in_o your_o aim_n to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n that_o when_o you_o reflect_v on_o your_o way_n you_o may_v have_v its_o good_a testimony_n there_o will_v most_o certain_o be_v more_o peace_n find_v in_o this_o then_o in_o the_o great_a abundance_n of_o all_o earthly_a comfort_n though_o combine_v together_o at_o their_o very_a best_a can_v any_o of_o these_o calm_a a_o man_n mind_n in_o a_o storm_n of_o challenge_n for_o sin_n and_o of_o the_o terror_n of_o death_n do_v they_o not_o often_o rather_o leave_v man_n in_o great_a anxiety_n and_o perplexity_n then_o if_o they_o have_v never_o enjoy_v they_o yea_o often_o in_o the_o very_a mean_a time_n of_o these_o enjoyment_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o carnal_a joy_n and_o laughter_n that_o result_v from_o they_o the_o heart_n be_v sad_a through_o the_o want_n of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n therefore_o we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o you_o will_v have_v a_o pleasant_a and_o cheerful_a life_n and_o a_o comfortable_a and_o joyful_a death_n labour_v to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n that_o when_o you_o reflect_v on_o it_o it_o may_v testify_v for_o and_o speak_v good_a of_o and_o to_o you_o this_o as_o solomon_n say_v be_v a_o continual_a feast_n in_o life_n and_o a_o sovereign_a cordial_a against_o the_o terror_n of_o death_n the_o second_o use_n serve_v to_o let_v we_o see_v the_o rise_n reason_n and_o cause_n of_o the_o great_a anxiety_n perplexity_n and_o vexation_n that_o be_v among_o most_o man_n so_o that_o they_o toil_v night_n and_o day_n and_o have_v no_o satisfaction_n it_o be_v even_o this_o that_o they_o do_v not_o seek_v after_o the_o peace_n and_o joy_n that_o be_v found_v upon_o and_o result_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n no_o wonder_n that_o such_o person_n live_v and_o die_v utter_a stranger_n to_o all_o solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n which_o only_o grow_v on_o this_o root_n this_o be_v a_o main_a cause_n also_o of_o the_o little_a peace_n and_o great_a heartlesnesse_n that_o be_v among_o even_a believer_n themselves_o that_o either_o they_o be_v not_o so_o serious_o endeavour_v to_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n or_o they_o be_v not_o so_o careful_a to_o draw_v their_o rejoice_n from_o it_o but_o be_v untender_a in_o their_o walk_n or_o be_v as_o so_o many_o bee_n flee_v from_o this_o flower_n to_o the_o other_o of_o worldly_a enjoyment_n seek_v to_o suck_v some_o sweetness_n and_o satisfaction_n from_o they_o and_o do_v not_o as_o it_o become_v they_o reflect_v on_o conscience_n that_o they_o may_v have_v a_o testimony_n of_o sincerity_n from_o it_o and_o that_o on_o that_o ground_n they_o may_v be_v quiet_a cheerful_a and_o joyful_a the_o 3d._a use_n serve_v to_o discover_v to_o we_o what_o mighty_a prejudice_n flow_v from_o and_o follow_v upon_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n which_o lay_v the_o ground_n of_o this_o testimony_n and_o on_o the_o neglect_n of_o self-examination_n a_o main_a piece_n of_o a_o tender_a walk_n which_o help_v to_o draw_v forth_o this_o testimony_n and_o therefore_o as_o you_o will_v have_v this_o testimony_n and_o the_o refresh_a peace_n and_o joy_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o in_o life_n and_o death_n and_o as_o you_o will_v have_v a_o heart_n holy_o triumph_v over_o all_o cross_n and_o difficulty_n affliction_n and_o tribulation_n design_n and_o endeavour_v more_o through_o grace_n to_o have_v a_o tender_a walk_n that_o you_o may_v lay_v a_o ground_n for_o this_o testimony_n and_o study_v to_o be_v more_o frequent_a in_o self-examination_n that_o thereby_o you_o may_v extract_v and_o draw_v it_o forth_o clear_o and_o convince_o for_o your_o peace_n comfort_n and_o joy_n can_v many_o of_o you_o be_v but_o once_o prevail_v with_o to_o prove_v and_o make_v trial_n what_o a_o comfortable_a
do_v warrantable_o distinguish_v betwixt_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n and_o he_o maintain_v the_o peace_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o some_o respect_n not_o as_o to_o his_o be_v free_a from_o all_o guilt_n in_o respect_n of_o his_o un_fw-mi renew_v or_o corrupt_a part_n but_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o opposition_n which_o the_o renew_a part_n make_v unto_o it_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o corruption_n he_o look_v at_o and_o cry_v out_o of_o himself_o as_o a_o sinful_a miserable_a and_o wretched_a man_n and_o yet_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o grace_n he_o look_v at_o and_o proclaim_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o happy_a man_n through_o christ_n jesus_n and_o on_o that_o account_n hearty_o thank_v god_n i_o grant_v that_o believer_n have_v need_n of_o much_o singleness_n and_o self-denial_n here_o yet_o they_o can_v have_v peace_n unless_o they_o thus_o distinguish_v and_o by_o the_o way_n which_o may_v be_v a_o distinct_a doctrine_n let_v i_o say_v that_o a_o believer_n not_o admit_v of_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n for_o he_o when_o he_o have_v ground_n for_o it_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o much_o heartlesness_n and_o a_o mighty_a obstruction_n of_o his_o peace_n comfort_n and_o joy_n when_o he_o know_v not_o how_o to_o wail_v out_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n from_o a_o crowd_n and_o heap_n as_o it_o be_v of_o challenge_n for_o much_o guilt_n â—_o lie_v observe_v that_o whoever_o will_v found_v peace_n and_o joy_n on_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n will_v be_v sure_a that_o it_o be_v a_o well_o ground_a testimony_n therefore_o paul_n in_o assert_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n here_o and_o his_o rejoice_v on_o that_o ground_n prove_v that_o he_o have_v sufâ—_n ground_n and_o warrant_v for_o his_o do_v so_o and_o bring_v 〈◊〉_d proof_n of_o it_o viz._n that_o in_o simplicity_n and_o godly_a sincerity_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n he_o hâ—d_v his_o conversation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o more_o abundant_o to_o they_o ward_n and_o indeed_o if_o we_o consider_v 1._o of_o whaâ—â—ighty_a concernment_n it_o be_v and_o how_o great_a and_o 〈◊〉_d a_o building_n be_v build_v on_o it_o we_o will_v find_v there_o be_v much_o need_n to_o have_v the_o ground_n well_o and_o deep_o lay_v 2_o if_o we_o consider_v what_o rain_n flood_n and_o wind_n of_o tentation_n trouble_n and_o challenge_n may_v descend_v beaâ—_n and_o blow_n upon_o our_o building_n and_o put_v it_o to_o the_o tryalâ—_n whether_o it_o be_v found_v and_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n or_o on_o the_o sand_n we_o have_v need_v to_o look_v well_o on_o what_o ground_n we_o build_v and_o that_o it_o be_v solid_a and_o durable_a we_o find_v many_o that_o will_v have_v a_o sort_n of_o peace_n in_o health_n and_o prosperity_n who_o when_o sickness_n adversity_n and_o death_n come_v have_v their_o peace_n to_o seek_v have_v be_v all_o the_o while_n but_o building_n as_o it_o be_v castle_n in_o the_o air_n 3_o if_o we_o consider_v how_o easy_a and_o ordinary_a it_o be_v for_o people_n here_o to_o go_v wrong_n to_o be_v mistake_v and_o to_o think_v that_o all_o be_v well_o when_o alace_o it_o be_v nothing_o so_o but_o all_o quite_o wrong_a it_o say_v we_o have_v need_v to_o be_v sick_a â—t_a cry_n aloud_o to_o we_o to_o look_v about_o we_o and_o to_o make_v sure_a solid_a and_o sick_a work_n for_o further_o prosecute_n of_o this_o point_n i_o shall_v 1._o show_n how_o person_n may_v suppose_v that_o they_o have_v a_o good_a testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n without_o a_o ground_n or_o upon_o seem_a ground_n without_o any_o solidity_n or_o reality_n 2_o i_o shall_v show_v what_o ground_n will_v not_o bear_v this_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 3_o i_o shall_v show_v what_o ground_n may_v bear_v it_o or_o what_o may_v be_v the_o character_n of_o a_o warrantable_a and_o well-grounded_n testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n most_o of_o all_o which_o we_o will_v find_v to_o be_v in_o this_o text_n to_o our_o discourse_n on_o which_o we_o resolve_v at_o this_o time_n to_o put_v a_o end_n for_o the_o first_o viz._n that_o people_n may_v suppose_v that_o they_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n without_o a_o ground_n or_o on_o but_o seem_a ground_n which_o be_v incident_a not_o only_o to_o natural_a man_n but_o even_o sometime_o to_o believer_n themselves_o in_o some_o respect_n man_n may_v gather_v a_o conclusion_n of_o peace_n from_o unsound_a ground_n and_o speak_v peace_n to_o themselves_o when_o god_n have_v not_o speak_v peace_n to_o they_o there_o be_v a_o generation_n say_v solomon_n prov._n 30._o v_o 12._o that_o be_v pure_a in_o their_o own_o eye_n and_o yet_o be_v not_o wash_v from_o their_o filthiness_n a_o generation_n that_o foolish_o fancy_v themselves_o to_o be_v right_a when_o yet_o they_o be_v quite_o wrong_a which_o we_o suppose_v come_v to_o pass_v ordinary_o in_o these_o four_o case_n or_o from_o these_o four_o ground_n 1._o when_o 〈◊〉_d haive_n holiness_n and_o do_v a_o piece_n or_o part_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o work_n but_o go_v not_o stitch-through_a with_o it_o think_v they_o need_v not_o to_o be_v so_o full_a so_o exact_a and_o so_o precise_a as_o the_o command_n call_v for_o which_o it_o may_v be_v they_o secret_o judge_v to_o be_v too_o severe_a and_o rigid_a as_o it_o be_v with_o king_n saul_n who_o when_o samuâ—l_o come_v to_o he_o after_o the_o slaughter_n of_o the_o amâ—lekites_n 1_o sam._n 15._o go_v out_o to_o meet_v he_o and_o say_v to_o he_o bless_a be_v thou_o of_o the_o lord_n i_o have_v perform_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o when_o samuel_n answer_v he_o what_o mean_v then_o the_o bleat_a of_o the_o sheep_n in_o minâ—_n 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o â—owing_n of_o the_o ox_n which_o i_o â—ear_v saul_n reply_n they_o have_v bring_v they_o from_o the_o amalekite_n to_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n to_o the_o lord_n he_o think_v that_o he_o have_v sufficient_o keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n though_o he_o have_v preserve_v a_o aâ—ag_n and_o some_o â—ew_a of_o the_o best_a beast_n especial_o for_o such_o a_o use_n thus_o often_o natural_a man_n if_o they_o do_v as_o it_o be_v two_o part_n or_o half_a of_o their_o duty_n think_v they_o have_v do_v enough_o and_o that_o they_o may_v have_v peace_n oâ—_n that_o ground_n 2_o when_o person_n think_v that_o they_o mean_v well_o and_o have_v a_o honest_a aim_n and_o design_n and_o will_v it_o may_v be_v be_v ready_a to_o disput_n on_o that_o ground_n with_o any_o that_o will_v find_v fault_n with_o they_o and_o confident_o assert_v that_o they_o have_v do_v well_o as_o saul_n do_v with_o samuel_n in_o that_o same_o chapter_n who_o say_v yea_o i_o have_v obey_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o perform_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o that_o i_o have_v reserve_v these_o few_o sheep_n and_o ox_n i_o mean_v well_o it_o be_v not_o from_o any_o greed_n or_o covetousness_n but_o to_o be_v a_o sacrifice_n for_o the_o lora_n what_o say_v samuel_n have_v the_o lord_n as_o great_a delight_n in_o burn_a offering_n and_o sacrifice_n as_o in_o obey_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o obey_v be_v better_a than_o sacrifice_n etc._n etc._n that_o which_o many_o man_n call_v a_o good_a mind_n or_o meaning_n â—s_v often_o the_o cutthroat_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o harden_v they_o against_o just_a challenge_n 3_o when_o man_n be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n it_o make_v they_o to_o have_v peace_n when_o they_o have_v no_o ground_n â—or_a it_o such_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v that_o they_o have_v give_v obedience_n to_o god_n command_n and_o that_o they_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n because_o they_o know_v not_o the_o extent_n and_o spiritual_a meaning_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o that_o man_n speak_v of_o matth._n 19_o who_o say_v all_o these_o have_v i_o keep_v from_o my_o youth_n up_o he_o do_v noâ—_n gross_o dissemble_v when_o he_o say_v so_o but_o he_o be_v ignorant_a as_o i_o say_v 〈◊〉_d now_o of_o the_o spiritual_a meaning_n and_o extent_n of_o the_o law_n he_o think_v he_o be_v not_o covetous_a if_o he_o do_v noâ—_n oppress_v and_o know_v not_o what_o it_o be_v to_o post-pone_a all_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n to_o god_n and_o that_o he_o be_v bind_v in_o some_o case_n and_o as_o he_o call_v he_o to_o it_o to_o quite_o all_o and_o to_o follow_v christ_n and_o therefore_o turn_v his_o back_n on_o christ_n when_o he_o be_v put_v to_o the_o trial_n how_o many_o will_v have_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o peace_n such_o as_o it_o be_v after_o they_o have_v pray_v
beeâ—_n hear_v a_o sermon_n rest_a on_o the_o 〈◊〉_d performance_n when_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o never_o discern_v what_o it_o be_v to_o perform_v these_o duty_n spiritual_o they_o fancy_v that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o break_v the_o first_o 〈◊〉_d if_o they_o have_v not_o downright_o worship_v any_o other_o god_n but_o the_o true_a god_n and_o know_v no_o spiritual_a 〈◊〉_d that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o murder_n if_o they_o shed_v no_o manâ—_n blood_n and_o know_v not_o that_o rash_a anger_n be_v 〈◊〉_d breach_n of_o that_o command_n and_o murder_n before_o god_n and_o so_o in_o other_o command_n 4_o when_o providence_n seem_v to_o countenance_v some_o particular_a in_o man_n hand_n and_o it_o go_v with_o they_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v in_o that_o case_n they_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o so_o speak_v peace_n to_o themselves_o as_o we_o see_v in_o micah_n when_o he_o have_v make_v his_o teraphim_n ephod_n and_o molâ—en_o image_n and_o meet_v with_o a_o vagrant_a levit_fw-la come_v along_o who_o 〈◊〉_d to_o stay_v with_o he_o now_o say_v he_o i_o know_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v do_v i_o good_a sâ—ing_v i_o have_v a_o levit_fw-la to_o be_v my_o priest_n he_o look_v on_o providence_n furnish_v he_o with_o a_o priest_n as_o god_n approve_v of_o his_o make_v these_o image_n we_o will_v also_o find_v in_o rachel_n and_o leah_n two_o instance_n of_o this_o gen._n 30._o rachel_n in_o her_o barrenness_n give_v bilhah_n her_o maid_n to_o jacob_n and_o when_o she_o have_v bring_v forth_o a_o son_n she_o say_v god_n have_v judgeâ—_n i_o and_o beard_n my_o voice_n but_o leah_n when_o she_o have_v give_v her_o maid_n to_o he_o be_v more_o express_a and_o clear_a while_o she_o say_v after_o zilpahs_n bring_v forth_o a_o son_n god_n have_v give_v i_o my_o hire_n because_o i_o have_v give_v my_o maid_n to_o my_o husband_n it_o be_v very_o rare_a for_o people_n when_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v countenance_v in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a that_o they_o have_v a_o great_a mind_n for_o so_o to_o reflect_v on_o their_o way_n as_o not_o sad_o to_o mistake_v there_o may_v be_v something_o of_o this_o even_o in_o believer_n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o have_v unmortified_a corruption_n in_o they_o all_o which_o say_v that_o we_o have_v great_a need_n and_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o concern_v to_o study_v to_o be_v impartial_a and_o single_a in_o ground_v the_o testimony_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o we_o mistake_v it_o not_o for_o providence_n counâ—_n we_o in_o a_o particular_a will_v not_o if_o there_o be_v no_o more_o prove_v we_o to_o be_v right_a in_o it_o god_n not_o have_v give_v we_o that_o as_o our_o rule_n to_o walk_v by_o but_o the_o law_n and_o testimony_n by_o which_o the_o conscience_n be_v well_o inform_v and_o give_v its_o testimony_n according_o that_o be_v the_o alone_a testimony_n which_o can_v yield_v solid_a peace_n and_o joy_n for_o the_o second_o thing_n viz._n some_o false_a ground_n even_o beside_o these_o that_o man_n use_v to_o rest_v upon_o we_o shall_v name_v these_o four_o that_o be_v very_o unsound_a and_o unsicker_n and_o they_o be_v employ_v in_o the_o text._n the_o 1._o be_v employ_v in_o godly_a sincerity_n for_o clear_v of_o which_o you_o will_v take_v notice_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o moral_a sincerity_n in_o man_n practice_n that_o be_v not_o godly_a sincerity_n which_o be_v opposite_a to_o more_o gross_a counterfeit_n and_o dissemble_v this_o we_o find_v to_o have_v be_v in_o abimelech_n gen._n 20._o who_o say_v to_o god_n in_o the_o integrity_n of_o my_o heart_n have_v i_o do_v this_o the_o man_n say_v not_o one_o thing_n when_o he_o intend_v another_o this_o moral_a sincerity_n will_v not_o prove_v a_o solid_a ground_n of_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n therefore_o we_o see_v that_o god_n plague_v aâ—imelech_n notwithstanding_o his_o moral_a honesty_n and_o sincerity_n it_o be_v true_a it_o may_v extenuat_fw-la and_o in_o some_o respect_n excuse_v a_o man_n fault_n as_o it_o do_v paul_n persecution_n who_o do_v it_o ignorant_o and_o out_o of_o unbelief_n and_o the_o jew_n their_o zeal_n which_o be_v not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n but_o as_o the_o thing_n itself_o be_v not_o warrantable_a so_o no_o such_o thing_n can_v be_v a_o solid_a ground_n of_o peace_n therefore_o the_o jew_n zeal_n do_v not_o warrant_v they_o in_o that_o they_o do_v nor_o paul_n persecution_n to_o be_v no_o sin_n as_o neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o nor_o both_o of_o they_o together_o warrant_v these_o speak_v of_o 1_o john_n 16._o who_o in_o kill_v the_o servant_n of_o christ_n think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n the_o matter_n must_v be_v right_a otherways_o there_o can_v never_o be_v ground_n for_o a_o good_a testimony_n of_o the_o conscience_n there_o be_v somewhat_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o sincerity_n in_o many_o merchant_n and_o tradesman_n which_o make_v they_o if_o they_o be_v any_o way_n moral_o honest_a in_o their_o deal_n to_o think_v that_o they_o have_v religion_n enough_o and_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n but_o alace_o this_o will_v not_o do_v the_o business_n nor_o obtain_v such_o a_o testimony_n it_o be_v not_o sure_a for_o nought_o that_o paul_n put_v in_o this_o word_n for_o a_o ground_n of_o his_o testimony_n godly_a sincerity_n the_o second_o false_a ground_n be_v employ_v in_o these_o word_n not_o with_o fleshly_a wisdom_n wherein_o you_o may_v take_v notice_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o fleshly_a wisdom_n providence_n or_o policy_n whereby_o many_o man_n square_v their_o action_n and_o way_n so_o as_o the_o mean_v they_o pitch_v on_o may_v reâ—ch_v their_o end_n and_o they_o may_v carry_v the_o matter_n so_o smooth_o and_o handsome_o as_o not_o open_o to_o offend_v though_o they_o make_v but_o little_a conscience_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o mean_n but_o it_o be_v not_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v but_o worldly_a wisdom_n which_o will_v come_v to_o nought_o 2_o you_o may_v notice_n here_o that_o though_o this_o may_v keep_v a_o man_n sometime_o from_o outward_a trouble_n and_o in_o a_o sort_n of_o quietness_n of_o mind_n and_o may_v yield_v he_o some_o ground_n of_o expectation_n to_o gain_v his_o point_n yet_o it_o will_v not_o give_v he_o solid_a peace_n nor_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o his_o conscience_n â—ndeed_o where_o a_o tender_a well_o inform_v conscience_n rule_n and_o bear_v sway_v natural_a wisdom_n be_v a_o serviceable_a and_o useful_a hand_n maid_n but_o when_o a_o man_n design_n a_o good_a end_n to_o be_v compass_v by_o fleshly_a wisdom_n without_o consult_v conscience_n in_o it_o though_o he_o shall_v succeed_v it_o will_v never_o give_v he_o peace_n therefore_o when_o paul_n come_v to_o corinth_n to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n he_o declare_v that_o he_o will_v not_o preach_v nor_o disput_n to_o make_v a_o show_n of_o his_o learning_n or_o scholarcraft_n nor_o to_o draw_v people_n respect_n and_o applause_n to_o himself_o as_o the_o false_a teacher_n do_v but_o with_o holy_a simplicity_n he_o plain_o instruct_v they_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o reprove_v impartial_o their_o fault_n and_o so_o commit_v the_o success_n to_o god_n thus_o a_o minister_n may_v sinful_o follow_v this_o rule_n or_o guide_v of_o fleshly_a wisdom_n to_o come_v by_o a_o good_a end_n to_o wit_n the_o keep_n of_o people_n from_o cast_v at_o his_o ministry_n these_o false_a teacher_n that_o be_v in_o corinth_n who_o do_v not_o it_o may_v be_v preach_v gross_a error_n and_o may_v possible_o think_v they_o have_v some_o good_a end_n yet_o in_o their_o preach_n through_o much_o fleshly_a wisdom_n they_o â—ought_v themselves_o and_o make_v it_o their_o great_a work_n to_o gain_v the_o people_n respect_n and_o applause_n by_o connive_v at_o their_o â—aults_n rather_o than_o to_o profit_v they_o and_o to_o gain_v their_o soul_n woe_n wo_n to_o such_o minister_n who_o wink_v at_o the_o sin_n of_o their_o hearer_n that_o they_o may_v infinuaâ—_n themselves_o on_o they_o and_o court_v their_o favour_n but_o close_o to_o our_o point_n we_o say_v that_o though_o man_n shall_v have_v never_o so_o good_a a_o end_n fleshly_a wisdom_n and_o carnal_a policy_n will_v never_o minister_v ground_n of_o a_o good_a testimony_n from_o their_o conscience_n unto_o they_o a_o thâ—rd_n false_a ground_n be_v employ_v in_o these_o word_n but_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n viz_o as_o the_o principle_n of_o his_o action_n and_o walk_v which_o insiâ—uats_v first_o that_o there_o be_v some_o good_a thing_n which_o man_n may_v do_v not_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o grace_n but_o it_o may_v be_v from_o a_o mere_o moral_a principle_n of_o
to_o speak_v of_o i_o shall_v only_o say_v that_o if_o we_o compare_v the_o universality_n of_o the_o command_n with_o our_o obedience_n thereto_o and_o try_v if_o the_o one_o be_v as_o universal_a as_o the_o other_o be_v if_o there_o be_v a_o respect_n have_v to_o all_o the_o comâ—nds_n to_o these_o of_o the_o first_o as_o well_o as_o to_o these_o of_o the_o second_o table_n of_o the_o law_n to_o these_o of_o the_o gospel_n as_o well_o as_o to_o these_o of_o the_o law_n and_o if_o we_o take_v a_o view_n of_o our_o conversation_n in_o whole_a and_o in_o the_o part_n of_o it_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o worship_n and_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o our_o particular_a calling_n station_n and_o relation_n if_o a_o good_a conscience_n have_v be_v single_o aim_v at_o in_o all_o these_o at_o all_o time_n sabbath-day_n and_o weekday_n in_o all_o condition_n in_o prosperity_n and_o adversity_n in_o all_o place_n at_o home_o and_o abroad_o in_o the_o shop_n and_o in_o the_o family_n in_o journey_n by_o land_n and_o voyage_n by_o sea_n for_o conscience_n come_v in_o as_o concern_v in_o all_o place_n and_o in_o all_o company_n and_o will_v put_v the_o question_n whether_o we_o be_v call_v to_o go_v to_o such_o a_o place_n and_o to_o be_v in_o such_o a_o company_n or_o not_o and_o will_v expect_v a_o answer_n as_o to_o all_o these_o thing_n condition_n time_n place_n and_o company_n if_o i_o say_v we_o try_v conscience_n as_o to_o all_o these_o we_o will_v find_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n be_v a_o very_a rare_a thing_n and_o that_o it_o be_v not_o so_o easy_o either_o attain_v or_o entertain_v as_o many_o imagine_v it_o to_o be_v and_o that_o withal_o its_o evident_a and_o undeniable_a hence_o that_o the_o conscience_n of_o most_o man_n and_o woman_n be_v not_o so_o good_a as_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o aver_v they_o to_o be_v which_o they_o will_v one_o day_n find_v if_o a_o gracious_a change_n prevent_v not_o to_o their_o unspeakable_a and_o irreparable_a loss_n and_o prejudice_n sermon_n ii_o heb._n 13._o v_o 18._o pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n willing_a to_o live_v honest_o true_a religion_n and_o godliness_n consist_v not_o only_o in_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o in_o the_o conception_n and_o contemplation_n of_o the_o truth_n concern_v god_n and_o the_o gospel_n but_o also_o and_o main_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o know_a duty_n thereof_o and_o very_o ordinary_o there_o be_v more_o of_o the_o concern_v of_o conscience_n and_o of_o its_o solid_a peace_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o more_o common_a and_o well_o know_v duty_n that_o be_v even_o at_o our_o hand_n then_o in_o the_o speculation_n of_o and_o painful_a search_n after_o thing_n that_o be_v more_o mysterious_a and_o obscure_a we_o will_v decry_v none_o of_o these_o nor_o dissuade_v any_o from_o a_o sober_a inquiry_n after_o they_o who_o be_v more_o call_v to_o it_o than_o other_o yet_o we_o will_v give_v every_o one_o of_o they_o their_o own_o due_a place_n and_o will_v by_o all_o mean_n take_v heed_n that_o we_o separate_v and_o divide_v not_o the_o power_n and_o practice_v of_o religion_n from_o the_o theory_n thereof_o and_o that_o we_o prefer_v not_o the_o search_n after_o some_o more_o cryptick_a and_o dark_a thing_n in_o religion_n to_o the_o serious_a practice_n of_o the_o more_o plain_a and_o obvious_a truth_n thereof_o for_o the_o prevent_n whereof_o as_o by_o other_o mean_n so_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n very_o ordinary_o in_o the_o close_a of_o his_o epistle_n after_o more_o doctrinal_a discourse_n subjoyn_v some_o plain_a and_o familiar_a direction_n concern_v the_o practice_n of_o such_o duty_n that_o be_v general_o know_v and_o acknowledge_v among_o which_o this_o be_v one_o viz._n prayer_n for_o one_o another_o and_o more_o particular_o and_o especial_o for_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n pray_v for_o we_o faith_n he_o in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o verse_n we_o will_v then_o learn_v conscientious_o to_o improve_v our_o light_n and_o knowledge_n towards_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o religion_n and_o most_o of_o these_o that_o be_v most_o necessary_a and_o particular_o we_o will_v learn_v to_o lay_v due_a weight_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o this_o duty_n minister_n will_v neither_o disdain_v nor_o think_v shame_n to_o call_v for_o the_o help_n of_o the_o people_n prayer_n neither_o will_v people_n neglect_v nor_o think_v it_o needless_a or_o a_o burden_n to_o they_o to_o take_v a_o serious_a lift_n of_o their_o minister_n in_o their_o prayer_n to_o god_n when_o we_o press_v obedience_n in_o all_o thing_n as_o the_o evidence_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n we_o will_v press_v obedience_n to_o this_o among_o the_o rest_n which_o whoever_o neglect_n will_v in_o so_o far_o mar_v the_o peace_n of_o their_o conscience_n before_o god_n for_o they_o can_v have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n if_o they_o neglect_v or_o flight_v this_o piece_n of_o their_o duty_n therefore_o without_o further_a insist_v in_o it_o we_o exhort_v you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n pray_v for_o we_o the_o other_o thing_n in_o the_o verse_n whereof_o we_o begin_v to_o speak_v the_o last_o day_n be_v the_o reason_n or_o motive_n whereby_o paul_n press_v they_o to_o this_o duty_n by_o which_o a_o objection_n be_v obviate_v they_o may_v belike_o say_v at_o least_o think_v that_o he_o be_v a_o asperse_v reproach_v and_o ill-spoken_a of_o man_n and_o that_o therefore_o they_o have_v but_o small_a ground_n of_o encouragement_n to_o pray_v for_o he_o no_o say_v he_o notwithstanding_o these_o aspersion_n which_o be_v false_a and_o groundless_a pray_v for_o we_o for_o we_o trust_v we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o because_o this_o assertion_n may_v look_v big_a he_o qualify_v it_o in_o the_o word_n follow_v wherein_o he_o clear_v what_o he_o mean_v and_o prove_v that_o he_o speak_v not_o at_o random_n we_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n will_v in_o all_o thing_n say_v he_o to_o live_v honest_o we_o may_v and_o do_v fail_v and_o come_v short_a as_o to_o the_o length_n we_o shall_v be_v 〈◊〉_d but_o it_o beside_o our_o purpose_n our_o desire_n design_n and_o endeavour_n be_v faithful_o to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n observe_v 1._o here_o that_o a_o honest_a and_o good_a life_n or_o walk_v and_o a_o honest_a and_o good_a conscience_n go_v together_o there_o be_v always_o a_o suitableness_n betwixt_o the_o testimony_n of_o a_o person_n conscience_n within_o and_o the_o order_n of_o his_o walk_n and_o conversation_n without_o or_o thus_o as_o a_o man_n life_n be_v so_o be_v his_o conscience_n if_o the_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v honest_a than_o a_o man_n may_v have_v and_o have_v a_o honest_a and_o good_a conscience_n but_o if_o his_o life_n and_o conversation_n be_v untender_a dishonest_a profane_a and_o louse_n he_o can_v possible_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o affirm_v titus_n 1._o 15._o and_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v clear_a because_o conscience_n well_o ground_v testimony_n must_v be_v according_a to_o truth_n and_o speak_v out_o the_o thing_n as_o indeed_o it_o be_v and_o as_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v ill_a and_o wrong_n it_o can_v speak_v peace_n and_o good_a so_o when_o the_o thing_n be_v right_a it_o will_v not_o speak_v ill_o for_o use_v of_o it_o do_v not_o separat_fw-la these_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v conjoin_v think_v never_o to_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n when_o you_o have_v not_o a_o honest_a conversation_n it_o may_v be_v find_v without_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o a_o very_a diligent_a search_n that_o many_o do_v presumptuous_o and_o groundless_o speak_v and_o boast_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n when_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o their_o conversation_n that_o look_v like_o it_o let_v be_v warrant_n it_o but_o if_o you_o will_v certain_o know_v the_o companion_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n take_v it_o from_o paul_n it_o be_v even_o a_o live_n honest_o i_o will_v only_o here_o have_v you_o to_o take_v this_o caveat_n in_o the_o by_o when_o we_o say_v that_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o a_o honest_a life_n or_o walk_n go_v together_o we_o will_v not_o have_v you_o to_o look_v to_o the_o connexion_n of_o these_o two_o so_o severe_o and_o rigid_o as_o if_o there_o can_v not_o be_v a_o good_a conscience_n but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o honest_a walk_n in_o its_o perfection_n without_o all_o slip_n or_o fail_n for_o we_o be_v now_o speak_v of_o a_o deliberate_a fix_v and_o settle_a purpose_n and_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o live_v and_o walk_v honest_o which_o may_v consist_v with_o slip_n and_o fall_n of_o infirmity_n this_o willingness_n to_o live_v
main_o lean_a and_o the_o very_a hinge_n on_o which_o it_o be_v main_o turn_v as_o be_v the_o great_a evidence_n of_o sincerity_n we_o shall_v yet_o premit_fw-la some_o thing_n further_o for_o clear_v of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o then_o we_o shall_v confirm_v it_o which_o be_v in_o substance_n and_o in_o short_a this_o that_o a_o man_n who_o have_v a_o universal_a willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o may_v have_v calmness_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n though_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n in_o his_o life_n for_o which_o he_o may_v very_o just_o censure_v himself_o first_o then_o let_v it_o be_v premit_v that_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o this_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n flow_v from_o the_o universal_a honesty_n of_o a_o person_n life_n and_o walk_n we_o mean_v nor_o 1._o such_o a_o perfection_n of_o calmness_n and_o tranquillity_n as_o may_v stand_v before_o god_n judgment-seat_n for_o though_o we_o be_v in_o case_n to_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 4._o 4._o that_o we_o know_v nothing_o by_o ourselves_o yet_o be_v we_o not_o thereby_o justify_v but_o be_v that_o judge_v we_o be_v the_o lord_n who_o be_v great_a than_o our_o conscience_n and_o see_v many_o thing_n in_o we_o that_o we_o see_v not selve_o who_o ever_o therefore_o suppose_v such_o a_o perfection_n can_v never_o have_v calmness_n of_o conscience_n while_o he_o live_v in_o the_o world_n 2_o nor_o be_v this_o such_o a_o calmness_n as_o prevent_v all_o challenge_n a_o man_n may_v have_v challenge_n of_o conscience_n and_o yet_o have_v a_o good_a conscience_n neither_o 3ly_a be_v it_o such_o a_o calmness_n as_o under_o it_o believer_n have_v no_o ground_n for_o nor_o use_v of_o repentance_n and_o humiliation_n nay_o repenis_fw-la not_o only_o consistent_a with_o this_o calmness_n but_o it_o be_v a_o notable_a mean_n of_o it_o and_o a_o main_a ingredient_n in_o it_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n whereby_o in_o part_n it_o be_v both_o attain_v and_o entertain_v the_o kindly_a gospel-exercise_n of_o repentance_n for_o sin_n will_v not_o break_v our_o peace_n but_o very_o ready_o vacation_n from_o this_o exercise_n will_v do_v it_o to_o purpose_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v careful_o distinguish_v betwixt_o repentance_n humiliation_n and_o self-loathing_a for_o sin_n and_o the_o mar_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o our_o conscience_n yea_o there_o may_v be_v much_o exercise_n wrestle_v and_o fight_v inward_o in_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o yet_o considerable_a calmness_n of_o conscience_n in_o that_o same_o condition_n for_o that_o which_o give_v peace_n be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o want_n of_o all_o exercise_n of_o mind_n as_o a_o suitable_a behaviour_n under_o that_o exercise_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o apostle_n paul_n who_o though_o he_o be_v deep_o exercise_v and_o sore_o combat_v with_o the_o remainder_n of_o a_o body_n of_o death_n within_o he_o as_o he_o give_v a_o lament_a account_n rom._n 7._o yet_o he_o be_v the_o man_n here_o who_o have_v this_o calmness_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n 2_o we_o premit_fw-la that_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n consist_v with_o challenge_n and_o repentance_n and_o with_o deep_a inward_a exercise_n may_v be_v first_o where_o there_o be_v no_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n though_o i_o grant_v there_o must_v be_v no_o low_o nor_o less_o design_n than_o perfection_n because_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o sojourn_v saint_n of_o who_o we_o mean_v all_o along_o be_v most_o found_v on_o sincere_a and_o serious_a endeavour_n to_o attain_v it_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v phil._n 3._o 12_o 13._o not_o as_o though_o i_o have_v already_o attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfect_a viz._n in_o holiness_n but_o i_o follow_v after_o etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o vers_fw-la 15._o he_o assert_v a_o perfection_n there_o be_v not_o a_o attain_n of_o perfection_n as_o to_o degree_n and_o yet_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n in_o respect_n of_o part_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o sincere_a endeavour_n and_o press_v to_o be_v at_o perfection_n 2._o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n that_o we_o speak_v of_o may_v consist_v with_o the_o indwel_n of_o corruption_n though_o not_o with_o the_o reign_n and_o dominion_n of_o it_o i_o say_v with_o the_o indwel_n of_o corruption_n where_o the_o stir_n and_o act_n of_o it_o be_v as_o it_o be_v protest_v against_o groan_v under_o and_o oppose_v as_o it_o be_v with_o this_o apostle_n rom._n 7._o who_o notwithstanding_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n rebel_a against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n yet_o maintain_v his_o peace_n because_o this_o peace_n be_v ground_v not_o so_o much_o on_o the_o entire_a and_o absolute_a victory_n over_o corruption_n as_o on_o a_o real_a hatred_n of_o a_o real_a enmity_n at_o and_o a_o real_a fight_v against_o it_o 3._o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n may_v consist_v not_o only_o with_o corruption_n indwell_v but_o sometime_o with_o the_o prevail_a and_o captivate_a power_n of_o corruption_n which_o be_v also_o clear_a from_o rom._n 7_o where_o the_o law_n that_o be_v in_o the_o apostle_n member_n prevail_v so_o far_o against_o the_o law_n of_o his_o mind_n that_o it_o lead_v he_o captive_a to_o the_o law_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o his_o member_n and_o yet_o he_o have_v peace_n the_o reason_n be_v because_o this_o peace_n do_v not_o only_o flow_v from_o the_o event_n of_o the_o wrestle_n or_o fight_n but_o also_o from_o the_o christian_n not_o yield_v in_o the_o fight_n though_o he_o be_v captivat_fw-la and_o from_o his_o enter_v as_o it_o be_v a_o dissent_n from_o and_o protestation_n against_o the_o captivate_a power_n of_o corruption_n therefore_o say_v he_o the_o thing_n i_o do_v i_o allow_v not_o and_o it_o be_v no_o more_o i_o that_o do_v it_o but_o sin_n that_o dwell_v in_o i_o not_o but_o it_o be_v he_o that_o sin_v but_o he_o allow_v it_o not_o nay_o as_o i_o say_v he_o protest_v against_o the_o prevailling_a of_o sin_n in_o himself_o therefore_o the_o word_n in_o the_o original_a be_v the_o thing_n i_o do_v i_o know_v not_o that_o be_v i_o will_v not_o in_o some_o respect_n own_o it_o for_o my_o deed_n and_o on_o this_o ground_n he_o maintain_v his_o peace_n and_o from_o it_o draw_v his_o consolation_n rom._n 8._o 1._o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o â—o_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 for_o though_o sometime_o the_o flesh_n may_v prevail_v yet_o say_v he_o we_o walk_v not_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o flesh_n but_o we_o endeavour_v though_o we_o come_v not_o up_o to_o perfection_n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n principles_n and_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n 3_o we_o premit_fw-la that_o this_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n may_v consist_v with_o many_o defect_n infirmity_n and_o sailing_n yet_o we_o will_v beware_v of_o and_o watchful_o guard_v against_o two_o sort_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o it_o 1._o conscience_n wasting-sin_n that_o raise_v a_o storm_n and_o tempest_n in_o the_o conscience_n such_o as_o be_v david_n adultery_n and_o murder_n peter_n denial_n of_o his_o master_n and_o the_o like_a which_o though_o they_o may_v consist_v with_o a_o interest_n in_o god_n stand_v still_o inviolated_a and_o not_o null_v and_o though_o peace_n may_v be_v recover_v by_o the_o renew_a exercise_n of_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o of_o faith_n towards_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yet_o for_o the_o time_n of_o the_o prevail_a of_o such_o sin_n and_o before_o such_o exercise_n of_o â—aith_n and_o repentance_n they_o be_v to_o the_o believer_n conscience_n as_o boisterous_a wind_n be_v to_o the_o sea_n we_o do_v not_o therefore_o admit_v of_o all_o sort_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v consistent_a with_o this_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o conscience_n but_o such_o only_a as_o be_v sin_n of_o more_o ordinary_a infirmity_n against_o the_o soul_n actual_a dissent_n and_o protestation_n to_o the_o contrary_n 2._o we_o will_v beware_v of_o such_o aggravation_n of_o sin_n that_o make_v little_a sin_n little_a i_o mean_v comparative_o to_o become_v great_a sin_n a_o man_n may_v be_v captivat_fw-la by_o some_o sin_n and_o yet_o retain_v peace_n and_o yet_o these_o same_o sin_n in_o another_o person_n by_o reason_n of_o some_o grievous_o aggravate_v circumstance_n as_o if_o they_o be_v commit_v deliberate_o and_o out_o over_o the_o belly_n of_o light_n and_o of_o check_n and_o challenge_n may_v much_o waste_v his_o conscience_n and_o great_o wound_v and_o mar_v his_o peace_n in_o this_o respect_n i_o say_v though_o the_o sin_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n may_v be_v lesser_a yet_o it_o be_v greatn_v by_o these_o and_o such_o other_o aggravation_n they_o be_v strict_o and_o proper_o sin_n of_o infirmity_n that_o the_o believer_n do_v not_o consent_n to_o
with_o much_o repentance_n and_o self-loathing_a and_o may_v have_v some_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o this_o that_o they_o have_v not_o a_o voluntary_a hand_n in_o their_o own_o defeat_n whereas_o he_o that_o be_v not_o serious_a in_o the_o fight_n can_v have_v no_o such_o ground_n of_o peace_n because_o he_o have_v be_v comply_v with_o or_o connive_v at_o corruption_n or_o not_o serious_o strive_v nor_o protest_v against_o it_o but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o testimony_n that_o none_o of_o these_o thing_n be_v the_o league_n and_o covenant_n that_o be_v betwixt_o the_o man_n and_o his_o conscience_n may_v stand_v and_o he_o may_v have_v and_o aught_o to_o maintain_v his_o peace_n that_o we_o may_v come_v to_o a_o close_a of_o this_o discourse_n and_o text_n take_v some_o character_n of_o this_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o where_o its_o sincere_a and_o 1._o where_o it_o be_v the_o more_o that_o corruption_n get_v victory_n the_o more_o it_o be_v hate_v and_o the_o more_o holy_a discontentment_n follow_v upon_o it_o the_o prevail_a of_o corruption_n stir_v awak_n and_o provock_v the_o christian_n indignation_n the_o more_o against_o it_o he_o be_v angry_a at_o it_o before_o but_o when_o at_o any_o time_n it_o make_v he_o founder_n or_o fall_v before_o it_o his_o anger_n increase_v and_o rise_v to_o a_o holy_a rage_n against_o it_o yea_o when_o he_o be_v wrestle_v with_o his_o own_o corruption_n and_o can_v get_v it_o master_v and_o bring_v down_o as_o he_o will_v he_o be_v the_o more_o set_v against_o it_o and_o in_o his_o complain_n of_o it_o he_o will_v ready_o have_v the_o more_o weighty_a and_o aggravate_v expression_n of_o it_o as_o the_o apostle_n have_v it_o rom._n 7._o when_o he_o cry_v o_o wretched_a man_n that_o i_o amâ—_n â—_z and_o as_o asaph_n have_v psal._n 73._o when_o he_o say_v so_o foolish_a be_v i_o and_o ignorant_a i_o be_v as_o a_o beast_n before_o thou_o which_o be_v a_o real_a proof_n that_o he_o connive_n not_o at_o corruption_n even_o when_o it_o it_o prevail_v over_o he_o he_o have_v not_o only_o a_o hatred_n of_o the_o evil_a but_o even_o then_o when_o it_o prevail_v and_o the_o more_o it_o seem_v to_o prevail_v the_o more_o he_o hate_v it_o 2._o where_o this_o willingness_n be_v there_o be_v much_o prayer_n to_o god_n and_o wrestle_v with_o he_o therein_o to_o attain_v more_o and_o more_o holiness_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o psalmist_n who_o say_v to_o god_n psal._n 119._o vers_fw-la 5._o o_o that_o my_o way_n be_v direct_v to_o keep_v thy_o statute_n and_o verse_n 10._o with_o my_o whole_a heart_n have_v i_o seek_v thou_o o_o let_v i_o not_o wander_v from_o thy_o commandment_n and_o verse_n 27._o make_v i_o to_o understand_v the_o way_n of_o thy_o precept_n and_o verse_n 35._o make_v i_o to_o go_v in_o the_o path_n of_o thy_o commandment_n for_o therein_o do_v i_o delight_v etc._n etc._n we_o know_v not_o if_o there_o be_v many_o that_o be_v much_o in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o holiness_n as_o a_o choice_n and_o desirable_a mercy_n and_o that_o be_v strive_v to_o maintain_v and_o keep_v up_o the_o fight_n against_o their_o corruption_n but_o sure_o if_o this_o be_v not_o man_n can_v have_v peace_n on_o this_o ground_n of_o willingness_n to_o live_v honest_o 3_o where_o this_o willingness_n be_v there_o will_v be_v nothing_o a_o great_a burden_n and_o affliction_n to_o a_o person_n then_o when_o corruption_n prevail_v as_o we_o use_v to_o say_v there_o be_v nothing_o that_o trouble_v a_o man_n more_o than_o not_o to_o get_v his_o will_n or_o to_o have_v his_o will_n thwart_v and_o cross_v even_o so_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o trouble_v the_o sincere_a man_n more_o than_o when_o hypocrisy_n steal_v 〈◊〉_d upon_o he_o and_o his_o corruption_n prevail_v over_o he_o so_o that_o he_o can_v get_v his_o will_n of_o it_o here_o we_o will_v distinguish_v betwixt_o thwart_v of_o the_o mind_n and_o interrupt_v the_o calmness_n of_o the_o conscience_n the_o mind_n may_v be_v thwart_v and_o cross_v by_o the_o prevail_a of_o sin_n when_o there_o be_v still_o ground_n of_o peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o have_v disquietness_n of_o mind_n and_o another_o thing_n to_o have_v peace_n of_o conscience_n break_v the_o least_o stir_v of_o corruption_n may_v and_o shall_v yea_o very_o ready_o will_v cross_v and_o afflict_v the_o sincere_a christian_n mind_n when_o he_o can_v get_v his_o will_n of_o it_o but_o holiness_n be_v his_o honest_a design_n and_o purpose_n it_o ought_v not_o to_o break_v his_o peace_n though_o i_o grant_v it_o often_o do_v so_o however_o sincere_a willingness_n make_v the_o man_n to_o look_v on_o the_o prevailling_a of_o corruption_n as_o his_o great_a burden_n to_o lament_v heavy_o over_o the_o body_n of_o death_n and_o to_o cry_v oâ—_n because_o of_o it_o o_o miserable_a man_n that_o i_o be_o who_o shall_v deliver_v i_o from_o it_o alace_o i_o can_v get_v my_o will_n of_o it_o nor_o because_o of_o it_o to_o be_v so_o holy_a as_o i_o will_v it_o be_v not_o unworthy_a the_o remark_n that_o all_o the_o outward_a affliction_n and_o persecution_n that_o the_o apostle_n meet_v with_o never_o draw_v such_o a_o expression_n from_o he_o as_o the_o indwel_n and_o stir_v of_o the_o body_n of_o death_n do_v o_o miserable_a man_n thaâ—_n i_o be_o he_o can_v and_o do_v rejoice_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o other_o tribulation_n which_o plain_o say_v that_o he_o look_v at_o this_o as_o his_o great_a cross_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o thing_n in_o all_o the_o world_n that_o make_v he_o account_v himself_o most_o miserable_a they_o who_o under_o the_o pretext_n of_o willingness_n to_o liâ—e_z honest_o be_v not_o trouble_v with_o the_o stir_n and_o prevailling_n of_o their_o corruption_n nor_o know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o groan_v under_o they_o as_o their_o burden_n who_o slight_a challenge_n and_o neglect_v repentance_n neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v the_o solid_a peace_n and_o calmness_n of_o conscience_n that_o flow_v from_o it_o 4ly_a a_o man_n that_o be_v serious_o willing_a to_o be_v at_o holiness_n and_o to_o live_v honest_o be_v a_o man_n who_o be_v often_o view_v the_o inward_a sinfulness_n and_o corruption_n of_o his_o nature_n who_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o it_o and_o who_o loathe_v it_o and_o himself_o because_o of_o it_o he_o can_v to_o say_v so_o tell_v two_o ill_a tale_n of_o himself_o when_o another_o it_o may_v be_v have_v not_o one_o to_o tell_v of_o he_o o_o say_v he_o it_o be_v at_o my_o heart_n that_o ail_v i_o none_o can_v speak_v of_o the_o sin_n that_o be_v in_o paul_n at_o the_o rate_n that_o himself_o do_v though_o he_o have_v less_o of_o it_o dwell_v in_o he_o than_o most_o of_o christian_n live_v have_v o_o but_o a_o man_n that_o be_v serious_o aim_v at_o holiness_n be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o frowardness_n and_o rebellion_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o large_a in_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o deceit_n and_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o it_o he_o will_v be_v far_o from_o come_v to_o god_n as_o the_o pharisee_n do_v in_o the_o ruff_n of_o his_o spiritual_a pride_n with_o lord_n i_o thank_v thou_o i_o be_o not_o as_o other_o man_n nor_o like_o this_o publican_n and_o as_o many_o carnal_a gospeller_n do_v with_o we_o thank_v god_n we_o have_v a_o honest_a mind_n while_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o take_v liberty_n to_o sin_n and_o be_v at_o no_o pain_n to_o mortify_v it_o nor_o to_o live_v to_o god_n nay_o but_o his_o complaint_n will_v sad_o be_v ah_o i_o have_v a_o heart_n that_o be_v like_o the_o rage_a sea_n my_o corruption_n lead_v i_o captive_a all_o the_o thought_n and_o imagination_n of_o my_o heart_n natural_o be_v wicked_a and_o ill_a only_o and_o continual_o ill_a and_o yet_o he_o rest_v not_o on_o his_o complaint_n but_o seek_v to_o win_v above_o the_o ground_n of_o they_o the_o reason_n be_v his_o great_a desire_n to_o live_v honest_o make_v what_o be_v contrary_a to_o it_o to_o be_v so_o much_o the_o more_o hate_a weary_v of_o and_o even_o despyte_v he_o like_v his_o corruption_n worst_a and_o abhor_v it_o most_o when_o it_o prevail_v over_o he_o he_o love_v to_o have_v sin_n discover_v but_o he_o hate_v that_o which_o be_v discover_v 5_o the_o sincere_o willing_a man_n make_v no_o great_a account_n of_o his_o own_o honesty_n he_o be_v far_o from_o think_v that_o he_o have_v any_o thing_n to_o boast_v or_o to_o be_v proud_a of_o he_o love_v holiness_n so_o very_o well_o that_o he_o think_v not_o much_o of_o what_o he_o have_v attain_v so_o as_o to_o make_v he_o halt_v and_o sit_v down_o there_o as_o if_o he_o need_v go_v no_o further_o he_o forget_v all_o
that_o be_v behind_o in_o that_o respect_n and_o say_v with_o the_o apostle_n phil._n 3._o according_a to_o his_o measure_n not_o as_o if_o i_o have_v attain_v or_o be_v already_o perfect_a one_o thing_n i_o do_v forget_v these_o thing_n that_o be_v behind_o and_o reach_v forth_o unto_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v before_o i_o press_v towards_o the_o mark_n for_o the_o 〈◊〉_d he_o be_v so_o take_v up_o with_o press_v desire_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v forward_o that_o any_o thing_n he_o have_v attain_v he_o be_v not_o much_o take_v and_o far_o less_o vain_o tickle_v with_o it_o as_o these_o proud_a pharisee_n be_v with_o their_o give_v of_o alm_n the_o attainment_n that_o many_o offer_n as_o a_o evidence_n of_o their_o honest_a willingness_n and_o their_o plead_n for_o it_o with_o their_o proud_a boast_n of_o it_o be_v a_o shrewd_a evidence_n of_o their_o real_a unwillingness_n in_o so_o far_o as_o they_o sit_v down_o contenâ—dly_o with_o what_o they_o have_v attain_v and_o press_v not_o at_o 〈◊〉_d to_o be_v forward_o as_o it_o become_v those_o to_o do_v that_o be_v far_o behind_o the_o true_o will_v honest_a man_n see_v so_o great_a a_o deal_n of_o his_o way_n before_o he_o that_o he_o scarce_o endure_v to_o look_v back_o on_o what_o of_o it_o be_v past_a he_o be_v ready_a to_o think_v and_o â—ay_n i_o have_v so_o many_o thing_n to_o do_v for_o god_n that_o i_o someway_o forget_v all_o the_o good_a turn_n that_o i_o have_v do_v as_o to_o sit_v down_o with_o they_o or_o boast_v of_o they_o 6_o the_o serious_o willing_a man_n can_v never_o be_v full_o satisfy_v with_o any_o victory_n he_o have_v obtain_v over_o his_o corruption_n or_o out-gate_n from_o it_o nor_o dare_v he_o rest_v on_o it_o neither_o have_v he_o peace_n till_o he_o come_v to_o look_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o hope_n of_o outgate_n through_o he_o i_o thank_v god_n say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 7._o through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n and_o then_o follow_v the_o conclusion_n so_o then_o with_o my_o mind_n i_o myself_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o with_o the_o flesh_n the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o chap._n 8._o 1._o there_o be_v therefore_o now_o 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 this_o character_n have_v three_o branch_n 1._o the_o man_n that_o be_v wrestle_v with_o and_o groan_v under_o the_o body_n of_o death_n love_v well_o and_o dear_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o outgate_n and_o now_o and_o then_o belong_v to_o have_v the_o pin_n of_o his_o tabernacle_n loose_v and_o to_o be_v fir_v from_o that_o evil_a neighbour_n and_o troublesome_a guest_n of_o indwelling_a corruption_n and_o it_o be_v unexpressible_o sweet_a and_o refresh_n to_o he_o to_o look_v to_o that_o desirable_a day_n when_o he_o and_o it_o shall_v final_o part_v company_n 2_o he_o have_v never_o the_o settle_a hope_n of_o a_o outgate_n but_o when_o he_o look_v to_o god_n through_o christ_n he_o look_v to_o god_n and_o think_v himself_o eternal_o oblige_v to_o he_o for_o his_o give_v christ_n to_o deliver_v he_o and_o he_o look_v to_o christ_n for_o strength_n to_o stand_v it_o out_o in_o the_o battle_n and_o for_o obtain_v a_o full_a and_o final_a out-gate_n in_o the_o close_a and_o at_o last_o and_o 3_o a_o man_n that_o have_v this_o willingness_n it_o high_o commend_v the_o free_a grace_n of_o god_n to_o he_o it_o make_v christ_n very_o lovely_a to_o he_o and_o withal_o it_o make_v sin_n to_o be_v exceed_o sinful_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n he_o love_v christ_n well_o because_o he_o have_v the_o hope_n of_o a_o out-gate_n through_o he_o and_o he_o love_v grace_n well_o because_o the_o poor_a man_n who_o be_v wrestle_v and_o war_a with_o his_o corruption_n and_o often_o plunge_v in_o the_o puddle_n and_o mire_n by_o it_o have_v through_o grace_n the_o hope_n of_o a_o final_a out-gate_n from_o it_o and_o it_o make_v sin_n to_o become_v out_o of_o measure_n loathsome_a to_o he_o and_o the_o high_a christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o grace_n be_v exalt_v the_o more_o vile_a and_o abominable_a be_v sin_n in_o his_o â—ight_n o_o but_o it_o be_v safe_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o ride_v at_o anchor_n betwixt_o these_o two_o we_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o this_o sincere_o and_o honest_o willing_a man_n be_v one_o that_o have_v two_o part_n in_o he_o and_o as_o he_o have_v two_o part_n so_o he_o labour_v to_o give_v every_o part_n it_o be_v own_o due_a and_o unless_o this_o be_v do_v there_o be_v no_o keep_n of_o peace_n and_o calmness_n in_o the_o conscience_n if_o a_o man_n shall_v look_v on_o himself_o as_o whole_o renew_v it_o be_v rank_a presumption_n have_v still_o a_o remainder_n of_o corruption_n in_o he_o and_o if_o be_v a_o sound_a believer_n in_o christ_n he_o shall_v look_v on_o himself_o as_o whole_o unrenewed_a it_o be_v gross_a unbelief_n therefore_o he_o attribut_v to_o corruption_n its_o due_a and_o be_v humble_v for_o it_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o acknowledge_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o he_o and_o any_o honest_a protest_v against_o â—in_a attribute_v it_o to_o grace_n and_o give_v god_n the_o praise_n of_o his_o grace_n after_o paul_n example_n who_o say_v rom._n 7._o i_o thank_v god_n through_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n so_o then_o with_o my_o mind_n i_o myself_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o with_o my_o flesh_n the_o law_n of_o sen_fw-mi he_o take_v with_o it_o that_o with_o his_o unrenewed_a pâ—t_n he_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o he_o be_v not_o come_v at_o perfection_n in_o holiness_n and_o yet_o assert_n that_o in_o his_o mind_n he_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n yet_o so_o that_o he_o serve_v not_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o of_o himself_o or_o in_o his_o own_o strength_n but_o as_o renew_v and_o assist_v by_o grace_n for_o 2_o cor._n 3._o 5._o he_o say_v not_o that_o we_o be_v sufficient_a of_o ourselves_o as_o of_o ourselves_o to_o think_v any_o thing_n but_o our_o sufficiency_n be_v of_o god_n he_o acknowledge_v that_o of_o himself_o as_o of_o himself_o he_o sin_v and_o can_v not_o so_o much_o as_o think_v a_o good_a thought_n but_o as_o renew_v and_o that_o not_o as_o of_o himself_o but_o aâ—_n of_o god_n he_o serve_v god_n his_o sufficiency_n be_v allenarl_o of_o he_o who_o enable_v he_o to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a and_o as_o it_o be_v 1_o cor._n 15._o not_o i_o but_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o i_o the_o same_o man_n that_o say_v he_o can_v so_o much_o as_o think_v what_o be_v good_a as_o of_o himself_o that_o he_o can_v do_v nothing_o yet_o say_v i_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n strengthen_v i_o philp._n 4._o 10._o o_o strange_a this_o way_n of_o distinguish_v be_v both_o a_o notable_a evidence_n of_o a_o man_n that_o aim_v honesty_n at_o peace_n and_o be_v the_o way_n to_o peace_n of_o conscience_n and_o otherways_o if_o it_o be_v neglect_v whilst_o christian_n have_v corruption_n in_o they_o they_o can_v never_o have_v solid_a peace_n sermon_n i._n heb._n 9_o v_o 13._o 14._o for_o if_o the_o blood_n of_o bull_n and_o of_o goat_n and_o the_o ash_n of_o a_o heifer_n sprinkle_v the_o unclean_a sanctify_v to_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o flesh_n 14._o how_o much_o more_o shall_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o through_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n offer_v himself_o without_o spot_n to_o god_n purge_v your_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n it_o be_v the_o great_a business_n of_o christian_n to_o walk_v so_o as_o they_o may_v be_v in_o good_a term_n with_o their_o conscience_n that_o from_o no_o untenderness_n in_o their_o way_n there_o may_v be_v any_o just_a ground_n of_o challenge_n at_o lest_o none_o such_o as_o may_v wound_v the_o conscience_n and_o break_v or_o mar_v the_o peace_n and_o tranquillity_n of_o it_o before_o god_n or_o disturb_v or_o interupt_v that_o sweet_a serenity_n and_o distinct_a calmness_n of_o a_o spiritual_a frame_n of_o soul_n that_o he_o allow_v on_o believer_n in_o he_o who_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o to_o have_v always_o a_o good_a conscience_n but_o alace_o its_o not_o all_o professor_n of_o religion_n it_o be_v not_o all_o gracious_a christian_n that_o win_v at_o this_o who_o i_o mean_v serious_a christian_n partly_o throw_v the_o unmortified_a reminder_n of_o corruption_n still_o dwell_v in_o they_o and_o partly_o through_o their_o own_o unwatchfulness_n fall_v often_o into_o such_o sin_n as_o defile_v the_o conscience_n and_o obstruct_v the_o clear_a light_n and_o serene_a tranquillity_n thereof_o when_o in_o any_o measure_n attain_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o less_o necessary_a to_o know_v
eat_v out_o the_o very_a life_n and_o feel_n of_o the_o conscience_n though_o it_o will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v a_o conscience_n still_o and_o a_o conscience_n that_o will_v speak_v and_o speak_v aloud_o one_o day_n albeit_o in_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n it_o be_v silent_a now_o 3._o we_o may_v also_o see_v here_o the_o reason_n why_o many_o person_n be_v so_o very_o filthy_a that_o sin_n become_v a_o delight_n to_o they_o so_o that_o the_o sin_n that_o other_o can_v not_o sleep_v with_o they_o can_v sleep_v till_o they_o get_v it_o commit_v because_o through_o a_o custom_n of_o and_o continuance_n in_o sin_v their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v 2_o observe_v that_o a_o man_n before_o he_o be_v purge_v by_o christ_n blood_n have_v his_o conscience_n whole_o defile_v not_o only_o in_o part_n as_o we_o say_v of_o the_o believer_n but_o whole_o before_o he_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o be_v purge_v by_o his_o blood_n he_o be_v like_o that_o wretched_a infant_n describe_v ezek._n 16._o 5._o which_o description_n set_v forth_o to_o the_o life_n what_o these_o people_n be_v before_o god_n enter_v in_o covenant_n with_o they_o cast_v out_o in_o the_o open_a field_n to_o the_o loathe_n of_o their_o person_n unsalted_a and_o unswadle_v with_o their_o navil_n uncut_v wallow_v in_o their_o own_o blood_n and_o have_v no_o eye_n to_o pity_v they_o and_o thus_o be_v all_o man_n and_o woman_n without_o exception_n before_o they_o be_v in_o covenant_n with_o god_n they_o be_v whole_o in_o a_o state_n of_o irreconciliation_n and_o enmity_n with_o god_n who_o law_n do_v not_o only_o condemn_v this_o and_o that_o work_n or_o deed_n of_o they_o but_o all_o of_o they_o as_o but_o dead_a work_n their_o very_a state_n and_o person_n be_v condemn_v their_o peace_n if_o they_o have_v any_o be_v no_o solid_a peace_n none_o of_o god_n peace_n for_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n nor_o ground_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o wicked_a say_v my_o god_n isai._n 57_o their_o inclination_n be_v whole_o deprave_a and_o corrupt_v all_o their_o thought_n and_o imagination_n be_v evil_a only_o evil_a and_o continual_o evil_a as_o it_o be_v gen._n 6._o 5._o and_o as_o that_o often_o cite_v emphatic_a word_n be_v tit._n 1_o 15._o to_o he_o that_o be_v defile_v and_o unbelieving_a there_o be_v nothing_o pure_a every_o practice_n of_o he_o &_o the_o use_n of_o every_o thing_n be_v to_o he_o impure_a and_o his_o very_a mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v total_o defile_v and_o this_o will_v be_v yet_o more_o clear_a if_o we_o consider_v 1._o the_o case_n that_o the_o man_n be_v in_o who_o be_v not_o in_o christ_n he_o be_v without_o god_n without_o hope_n under_o his_o curse_n and_o the_o condemnatory_a sentence_n of_o his_o law_n and_o can_v a_o man_n possible_o have_v a_o clear_a conscience_n that_o be_v under_o god_n curse_n and_o have_v the_o sentence_n of_o his_o law_n stand_v over_o his_o head_n unrepealed_a therefore_o he_o be_v say_v john_n 3._o to_o be_v condemn_v already_o and_o to_o have_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n abide_v on_o he_o 2._o if_o we_o consider_v that_o a_o man_n in_o this_o condition_n be_v under_o the_o dominion_n of_o sin_n he_o be_v a_o captive_a of_o it_o and_o of_o the_o devil_n at_o his_o will_n as_o it_o be_v 2_o tim_n 2._o 26_o so_o that_o there_o be_v scarce_o any_o motion_n or_o temptation_n to_o sin_n but_o he_o hearken_v to_o it_o and_o comply_v with_o it_o his_o heart_n be_v open_a to_o swarm_n of_o lust_n and_o as_o a_o cage_n to_o unclean_a and_o foul_a spirit_n legion_n of_o devil_n in_o a_o manner_n haunt_v he_o now_o if_o such_o a_o man_n can_v have_v a_o clear_a conscience_n you_o may_v easy_o judge_v and_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o every_o man_n by_o nature_n and_o therefore_o when_o christ_n speak_v of_o the_o renovation_n of_o a_o man_n he_o sometime_o call_v it_o the_o cast_v out_o of_o the_o devil_n import_v thereby_o that_o every_o man_n in_o nature_n be_v a_o common_a receptacle_n as_o it_o be_v to_o devil_n the_o 1._o use_v of_o this_o serve_v to_o teach_v we_o how_o we_o ought_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n to_o loathe_v the_o state_n of_o nature_n and_o how_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n we_o ought_v to_o love_n and_o long_a after_o a_o state_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n by_o who_o only_o our_o natural_a state_n can_v be_v change_v be_v it_o not_o a_o wonder_n that_o so_o many_o rational_a man_n and_o woman_n can_v live_v and_o lie_v still_o in_o their_o natural_a state_n without_o mind_v or_o look_v after_o a_o change_n consider_v that_o this_o stand_v record_v of_o and_o against_o they_o that_o their_o very_a mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v and_o that_o with_o dead_a work_n and_o that_o all_o who_o be_v not_o in_o christ_n be_v so_o defile_v vile_a and_o abominable_a that_o the_o most_o stink_a dunghill_n be_v not_o so_o loathsome_a as_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o person_n be_v o_o what_o heap_n and_o dunghill_n of_o lust_n what_o puddle_n and_o mire_n what_o kennel_n and_o sink_n of_o pollution_n and_o noisome_a and_o poisonable_a filthiness_n be_v there_o what_o noisome_a and_o poisonable_a sin_n be_v drink_v down_o with_o pleasure_n as_o so_o much_o sweet_a wine_n all_o which_o be_v keep_v in_o retentis_fw-la by_o the_o conscience_n never_o one_o of_o they_o be_v forget_v though_o for_o the_o time_n the_o conscience_n by_o its_o silence_n be_v suppose_v to_o have_v forget_v they_o yet_o it_o will_v set_v they_o all_o in_o order_n marshal_v they_o all_o as_o it_o be_v in_o rank_n and_o file_v against_o the_o person_n who_o shall_v be_v find_v out_o of_o christ_n in_o a_o most_o formidable_a manner_n it_o will_v not_o suffer_v one_o sin_n nor_o so_o much_o as_o one_o aggravate_v circumstance_n of_o any_o sin_n to_o be_v forget_v it_o will_v bring_v forth_o all_o and_o charge_v they_o home_o furious_o and_o irresistable_o this_o in_o god_n holy_a justice_n will_v be_v the_o use_n of_o conscience_n to_o all_o such_o person_n it_o be_v not_o like_o a_o conduit_n or_o pipe_n that_o take_v in_o at_o the_o one_o end_n and_o le_fw-fr we_o out_o at_o the_o other_o but_o like_o a_o stand_a sink_n that_o still_o retain_v all_o that_o come_v into_o it_o o_o than_o what_o a_o foul_a and_o filthy_a bag_n to_o speak_v â—o_o be_v the_o conscience_n of_o many_o a_o man_n and_o woman_n so_o that_o no_o botch_n boul_n or_o imposthume_n have_v such_o vile_a filthy_a and_o abominable_a matter_n in_o it_o as_o it_o have_v o_o what_o a_o noisome_a and_o viâ—ely_a stink_a smell_n will_v that_o putrid_a matter_n send_v forth_o when_o god_n prick_v it_o this_o shall_v make_v you_o all_o to_o loath_a live_n in_o your_o natural_a state_n and_o to_o long_o without_o linger_v to_o be_v out_o of_o it_o it_o be_v like_a that_o many_o take_v it_o ill_o â—o_o have_v such_o thing_n say_v or_o think_v of_o they_o but_o i_o assure_v you_o all_o that_o be_v out_o of_o christ_n whether_o you_o have_v a_o more_o full_a or_o empty_a purse_n about_o you_o you_o have_v this_o filthy_a bag_n full_a of_o sin_n within_o you_o and_o while_o you_o secure_o heap_v sin_n upon_o sin_n you_o be_v treasure_v up_o wrath_n against_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n and_o of_o the_o righteous_a judgement_n of_o god_n the_o 2_o use_n serve_v to_o let_v we_o see_v what_o a_o poor_a and_o sorry_a ground_n the_o most_o part_n have_v for_o their_o peace_n of_o conscience_n we_o may_v in_o truth_n wonder_v how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o many_o of_o you_o can_v have_v any_o peace_n have_v such_o a_o puddle_n of_o filthiness_n within_o you_o if_o it_o be_v true_a that_o your_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v which_o be_v the_o best_a thing_n you_o have_v and_o one_o day_n will_v clear_o and_o convince_o make_v discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o o_o how_o much_o hypocrisy_n and_o presumption_n will_v be_v find_v to_o be_v among_o you_o in_o stead_n of_o true_a and_o solid_a peace_n with_o which_o you_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v so_o long_o as_o these_o whoredom_n and_o witchcraft_n to_o say_v so_o of_o filthy_a sin_n be_v with_o you_o unpurged_a away_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ._n the_o 3._o use_n serve_v to_o demonstrat_fw-la and_o clear_o to_o hold_v forth_o the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o transcendent_a worth_n and_o matchless_a excellency_n that_o be_v in_o he_o that_o even_o when_o a_o man_n be_v thus_o defile_v and_o pollute_v by_o sin_n these_o dead_a work_n there_o be_v access_n by_o his_o blood_n to_o get_v the_o conscience_n purge_v and_o this_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o we_o will_v main_o point_v at_o from_o these_o word_n and_o which_o we_o intend_v god_n
refuse_v to_o give_v answer_n to_o either_o by_o dream_n or_o by_o urim_n or_o by_o prophet_n so_o as_o not_o to_o give_v they_o clearness_n by_o one_o mean_n nor_o another_o neither_o from_o his_o word_n nor_o by_o their_o conscience_n as_o call_v they_o to_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a thing_n it_o be_v no_o marvel_n that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n man_n be_v in_o the_o dark_a and_o that_o conscience_n keep_v itself_o silent_a yet_o two_o for_o clear_v the_o matter_n further_o you_o will_v consider_v two_o sort_n of_o cause_n that_o this_o proceed_v from_o some_z whereof_o be_v culpable_a and_o sinful_a on_o our_o part_n procure_v this_o as_o a_o just_a punishment_n of_o some_o former_a sin_n or_o of_o some_o present_a evil_n and_o sinful_a frame_n other_o some_o be_v sovereign_a on_o god_n part_n yet_o tend_v in_o his_o secret_a providence_n to_o promote_v some_o design_n of_o good_a to_o the_o person_n of_o a_o believer_n as_o to_o these_o cause_n that_o be_v sinful_a and_o culpable_a on_o our_o part_n we_o shall_v instance_n they_o in_o four_o or_o five_o case_n as_o 1._o when_o there_o be_v a_o sinful_a ignorance_n in_o the_o person_n who_o desire_v to_o be_v clear_a in_o such_o or_o such_o a_o particular_a through_o that_o their_o ignorance_n they_o be_v not_o in_o case_n clear_o and_o distinct_o but_o rather_o very_o dark_o and_o confuse_o to_o propose_v the_o matter_n to_o their_o conscience_n so_o that_o their_o conscience_n can_v give_v they_o a_o distinct_a answer_n for_o conscience_n be_v as_o i_o say_v before_o as_o a_o judge_n and_o our_o light_n be_v as_o the_o informer_n and_o as_o a_o judge_n can_v well_o decide_v in_o a_o matter_n when_o the_o case_n be_v confuse_o propose_v to_o he_o so_o no_o more_o can_v conscience_n when_o it_o want_v light_a and_o hence_o oftentimes_o person_n in_o who_o there_o be_v some_o zeal_n and_o good_a affection_n be_v leave_v much_o in_o the_o dark_a because_o to_o speak_v so_o they_o know_v not_o the_o law_n and_o practic_n on_o which_o conscience_n proceed_v therefore_o rom._n 14._o it_o be_v say_v of_o some_o that_o their_o conscience_n be_v weak_a because_o their_o light_n be_v weak_a and_o dim_a a_o second_o case_n be_v when_o man_n in_o seek_v the_o answer_n of_o their_o conscience_n do_v bind_v and_o limit_v it_o they_o either_o do_v not_o fair_o and_o full_o propose_v the_o case_n to_o conscience_n or_o they_o come_v not_o to_o it_o with_o one_fw-mi absolute_a submission_n suppose_v it_o to_o be_v thorough_o inform_v by_o the_o word_n concern_v the_o thing_n they_o will_v have_v clearness_n in_o and_o therefore_o they_o take_v the_o answer_n in_o part_n or_o but_o a_o part_n of_o the_o answer_n and_o suppose_v the_o rest_n or_o leave_v it_o to_o conscience_n to_o be_v determine_v as_o when_o man_n first_o resolve_v to_o do_v such_o or_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o leave_v only_o the_o time_a of_o it_o to_o their_o conscience_n here_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v limit_v and_o make_v indistinct_a in_o its_o answer_n because_o it_o be_v prejudge_v and_o leave_v free_a it_o may_v possible_o have_v be_v somewhat_o not_o alâ—gether_o unlike_a this_o that_o be_v in_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o israel_n their_o ask_n of_o god_n about_o the_o war_n against_o benjamin_n judge_n 20._o 18._o where_o they_o do_v not_o say_v at_o first_o shall_v we_o go_v up_o or_o shall_v we_o for-bear_a but_o first_o they_o say_v who_o shall_v go_v up_o a_o three_o case_n be_v when_o conscience_n be_v provoke_v by_o man_n former_a miscarriage_n than_o it_o may_v be_v silent_a and_o not_o answer_v now_o the_o conscience_n may_v be_v provoke_v these_o too_o way_n among_o other_o 1._o when_o people_n use_v not_o ordinary_o to_o consult_v conscience_n but_o at_o some_o particular_a and_o solemn_a time_n only_o and_o when_o they_o be_v bring_v to_o some_o pinch_n or_o put_v to_o a_o stand_n but_o as_o for_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o their_o life_n they_o follow_v inclination_n or_o a_o common_a light_n without_o advise_v with_o conscience_n in_o that_o case_n when_o such_o person_n come_v to_o advise_v with_o conscience_n and_o to_o seek_v clearness_n from_o it_o about_o such_o a_o thing_n the_o lord_n may_v say_v to_o they_o as_o he_o do_v to_o his_o people_n judge_n 10._o 19_o go_v and_o cry_v to_o the_o god_n who_o you_o have_v choose_v go_v advise_v with_o they_o or_o as_o elisha_n say_v to_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n 2_o king_n 3._o 3._o what_o have_v i_o to_o do_v with_o thou_o get_v thou_o to_o the_o prophet_n of_o thy_o father_n and_o to_o the_o prophet_n of_o thy_o mother_n even_o so_o if_o conscience_n be_v pass_v by_o and_o miskent_a by_o people_n in_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o their_o life_n it_o will_v ready_o misken_fw-mi and_o slight_v they_o when_o they_o be_v in_o a_o strait_a and_o come_v to_o seek_v counsel_n and_o clearness_n from_o it_o and_o will_v on_o the_o matter_n say_v to_o they_o you_o follow_v the_o counsel_n of_o flesh_n and_o blood_n in_o your_o ordinary_a walk_n and_o course_n of_o life_n therefore_o in_o this_o particular_a i_o will_v not_o answer_v you_o go_v and_o seek_v clearness_n from_o they_o who_o you_o use_v to_o consult_v 2_o conscience_n be_v provoke_v when_o i_o have_v former_o thwart_v with_o some_o clear_a intimation_n or_o answer_n of_o conscience_n and_o have_v some_o way_n detain_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n make_v as_o it_o be_v a_o prisoner_n of_o it_o and_o set_v a_o guard_n of_o corrupt_a affection_n about_o it_o when_o such_o come_v again_o to_o inquire_v at_o conscience_n what_o they_o shall_v do_v in_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a they_o may_v just_o get_v such_o one_fw-mi answer_v as_o be_v give_v prov._n 1._o 24._o because_o i_o call_v and_o you_o refuse_v i_o stretch_v out_o my_o hand_n and_o no_o man_n regard_v but_o you_o set_v at_o nought_o all_o my_o counsel_n and_o will_v none_o of_o my_o reproof_n i_o will_v laugh_v at_o your_o calamity_n they_o shall_v call_v but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v i_o give_v you_o answer_v before_o and_o you_o thwart_v with_o they_o therefore_o when_o you_o seek_v again_o you_o shall_v get_v none_o and_o hence_o flow_v much_o blindness_n and_o be_v nummednesse_n of_o conscience_n in_o man_n and_o woman_n because_o they_o put_v out_o the_o eye_n thereof_o and_o frequent_o repel_v and_o beat_v back_o what_o it_o say_v or_o answer_n so_o that_o it_o become_v cauterise_v and_o the_o feel_n of_o it_o wear_v almost_o if_o not_o altogether_o away_o and_o it_o speak_v very_o little_a or_o none_o at_o all_o to_o they_o be_v so_o much_o baffle_v and_o blunt_v with_o many_o repulse_n we_o may_v add_v this_o three_o way_n how_o it_o be_v provoke_v and_o that_o be_v when_o its_o asking_n be_v slight_v it_o ask_v we_o why_o we_o do_v such_o and_o such_o a_o thing_n and_o forbear_v such_o and_o such_o another_o and_o we_o slight_v what_o it_o say_v and_o lie_v still_o in_o sin_n be_v it_o not_o just_a that_o conscience_n pay_v we_o home_o in_o our_o own_o measure_n and_o refuse_v to_o answer_v we_o when_o we_o ask_v it_o a_o four_o sinful_a cause_n on_o our_o part_n of_o the_o silence_n of_o conscience_n be_v when_o man_n come_v not_o single_o and_o in_o a_o spiritual_a frame_n to_o conscience_n to_o seek_v its_o answer_n and_o advice_n but_o either_o have_v anâ—_n idol_n sâ—t_v up_o before_o their_o eye_n and_o be_v almost_o already_o determine_v in_o the_o thing_n or_o else_o they_o bring_v with_o they_o some_o one_o or_o other_o lust_n unrepented_a of_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o though_o they_o think_v themselves_o submissive_a in_o that_o particular_a and_o possible_o may_v some_o way_n be_v so_o yet_o not_o be_v absolute_o submissive_a in_o all_o conscience_n keep_v silent_a to_o the_o former_a the_o lord_n some_o way_n say_v as_o he_o do_v to_o these_o man_n by_o the_o prophet_n ezekiel_n chap._n 14._o 2_o 3._o son_n of_o man_n these_o have_v set_v up_o their_o idol_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o put_v the_o stumble_a block_n of_o their_o iniquity_n before_o their_o face_n shall_v i_o be_v inquire_v at_o all_o by_o they_o when_o man_n come_v to_o seek_v light_n and_o bring_v their_o idol_n with_o they_o the_o lord_n that_o speak_v by_o the_o conscience_n will_v some_o time_n in_o that_o case_n not_o suffer_v it_o to_o speak_v a_o word_n the_o other_o be_v like_o that_o which_o we_o have_v psal._n 66_o 8._o if_o i_o regard_v iniquity_n in_o my_o heart_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o hear_v my_o prayer_n when_o man_n come_v in_o a_o profane_a temper_n and_o frame_v of_o spirit_n to_o god_n and_o be_v not_o single_a and_o as_o i_o say_v absolute_o submissive_a conscience_n will_v not_o answer_v for_o conscience_n