THE PATERNE OF WHOLSOâ—â— WORDS Or a collection of such Truths as are of necessity to be belieued â—nto saluation separated oâ—t of â—he body of all Theologie Made euident by infallible anâ— plaine proofes of Scripture And withall The seuerall vses such Principles should be put to are abundantly shevved A Proiect much desired and of singular vse for all sorts of Christians By N. Bifeild Preacher of Gods Word at Isleworth in Middlesex 2. TIM 1.13 Keepe the true paterne of wholesome words whicâ— thou hast heard of me in faith and loueâ— which is Christ Iesus AT LONDON Imprinted by F. K. for Samuel Maâ—â— dwelling in Pauls Church yard at the signe of the Swan 1618. To the most Noble Ladie the Ladie DOROTHIE Countesse of Northumberland And to the highly honoured Ladies her Daughters The Ladie DOROTHIE SYDNEY and the Ladie LVCIE HAY N. BYFEILD Wisheth the abundance of true grace and peace Right Honourable I Haue long since vndertaken as in the course of my Ministerie you haue often heard to extract out of al Theologie conteined in the Scriptures the Principles that is such doctrines which are fundamentall and absolutely necessarie to be knowne of as many as are to be saued This Proiect ought to bee well accepted of all sorts of Christians that wish their owne good partly in respect of the necessitie of the doctrines here collected vnder their seueral heads and partly in respect of the apparant euidence of the proofes of Scripture which are such as make infallible demonstration to the conscience by the expresse light coÌ„teined in them and partly because the Vses which may be made of the seuerall Principles are euery where abundantly shewed And in as much as the Lord hath been pleased to giue some testimonie to my indeuors herein in the publike preaching I am not out of hope but that the printing of those Principles may be profitable to many godly and plaine-hearted Christians that desire in the plainest manner to vnderstand the meaning of their heauenly Fathers will I humbly dedicate this worke vnto your Honours and pray your acceptation and the patronage of it and to giue me leaue in the view of the world to signifie this way both my obseruance of the many noble and excellent vertues which are eminent in each of your Honours as also my vnfained thankefulnesse for the many fauours I haue receiued and for the countenance and incouragement of my Ministery accounting it a singular mercy of God that any labours of mine should find acceptation with persons of so high place and quality or any way be successeful to the prospering of any part of the worke of Gods grace in your hearts Now the God of all consolation fill your Noble breasts with all riches of the true grace that is in Iesus Christ that you may abound in the knowledge of the mysteries of his Kingdome in all iudgement and loue of the truth which is according to godlines and in all those gifts which may be found vnto honor and praise and glory in the reuelation of Iesus Christ. Your Honours in all seruice N. Bifeild Isleworth March 27. 1618. CERTAINE OF THE chiefest things contained throughout the whole Booke Chap. 1. THree things intended in this worke distinctly Page 1.2 Three waies to know a principle p. 6.6 An excellent course for catechising shewed p. 7. Chap. 2. The method of all the principles p. 8.9 Chap. 3. The principles that concerne the Scriptures p. 10.11 c. That the Scriptures are the very word of God proued by sixe testimonies externall as also by the internall testimonie of the spirit p. 11.12.13 That they are perfect p. 13. Six duties vrged from thence p. 14. 15. c. the Papists reproued in foure things p. 19.20 and the carnall Protestant in 4. things p. 21.22 and many godly men in 4. things also p. 22. Chap. 4. Foure principles concerning God p. 24. That there is a God proued by three testimonies internall and by foure testimonies from the world and two testimonies in the Church p. 25.26.27 Ten glories in the nature of God p. 28.29 c. Eight duties arising from the consideration of Gods nature p. 32.33.34 Sixe rules to be obserued in the study of the nature of God p. 35.36 Plaine proofes of the Trinity p. 39. with vses p. 41. that there is but one God proued with vses p. 42.43.44 Chap. 5. Fiue principles concerning the Creation p. 45.46 Sixe duties taught by the Creation p. 48.49 Chap. 6. Seuen principles concerning Gods prouidence p. 52.53 to 58. Eleuen things admirable in Gods prouidence p. 58.59.60 Foure sorts of men reproued p. 62. Eight vses for instruction p. 63.64.65.66.67 Foure waies to shew our patience in aduersity p. 64.65 Comforts from the meditation of Gods prouidence p. 69.70 Chap. 7. Two principles concerning mans estate of innocency p. 71.72 Man made after the image of God many waies p. 72. c. Man was the image of God in respect of his substance and so both of his being and of the manner of his being p. 72.73 Man made the image of God in respect of his gifts 3. waies p. 74. Foure sorts of free-wills p. 75. The speciall fauour of God to man in his creation both in respect of the time when and the place where and the manner how hee made him both in respect of soule and body p. 76.77 The doctrine of mans first happines teacheth diuers duties 1. To God p. 78. 2. To our selues p. 79. 3. To other men p. 80. Confutation of Papists about pictures p. 81. Chap. 8. Three principles concerning the fall of man p. 82. Seuen things to shew the greatnesse of Adams sinne p. 84. How it is that godly men beget vngodly children p. 86. Foure generall instructions p. 87.88 Three occasions of apostasie p. 87.88 Fiue degrees of the diuels tentation p. 90. Foure sorts of men in particular warned by the fall p. 91.92 Chap. 9. Foure principles concerning sinne p. 93.94 Fourteene foule blemishes in euery mans nature p. 95.96.97.98.99 Nine vses for information p. 103.104.105 Seuen things charged vpon ciuill honest men p. 106.107 Many vses for instruction with consolations also p. 108.109.110 Chap 10. Seuenteene sorts of punishments inflicted on man for sinne p. 114. to 128. The punishment of the damned in hell amplified by the degrees of it and the place and the continuance of it p. 124.125.126.127 Many vses from p. 128. to 136. Chap. 11. Fiue principles concerning election p. 137.138 Foure instructions p. 139. to 146. Signes of election of two sorts p. 146. to 152. Eight priuiledges of Gods elect p. 152. to 156. Chap. 12. That Christ is God proued 6. waies p. 157.158.159 Why it was needfull hee should bee God p. 159. The vses for humiliation and for instruction in many things and for consolation p. 160. to 164. Chap. 13. 4 Principles coÌ„cerning the humane nature of Christ. p. 164. to 167. Why Christ was incarnate p. 167. Why the second person in Trinitie was
are not the children of God but the children of promise are counted for the seed 3. By the sanctification of their afflictions euen by the many experiences of Gods loue in afflictions as when God comforts their hearts in the midst of distresse when they come to him making their mone and when he turnes the crosse to a blessing to them making them more humble by it exercising their gifts purging out their sinne c. and at the length giuing gracious deliuerances causing all to worke together for the best so as they themselues being Iudges they can say it was good for me that I was afflicted Rom. 8.28.29 Also we know that all things worke together for the best to them that loue God euen to them that are called of his purpose c. Psalm 119. in many places Now as God manifests his owne choie by these and such like signes so the godly make sure their owne election by diuers markes of it as generally by the sanctification of the Spirit and beliefe of the truth 2. Thes. 2.13 But we ought to giue thanks alway to God for you brethren beloued of the Lord because that God hath from the beginning chosen you to saluation through sanctification of the Spirit and the faith of truth so in particular 1. By the vertues of Christ which more or lesse in some measure shine in them such as are humilitie piety knowledge temperance and contempt of the world patience in aduersitie and other excellent sauing graces in them 2. Pet. 1.5.6.7.10 1. Pet. 2.9 By their fruits you may know them Ioh. 15.16 2. Secondly by the affections of godlinesse that are in them aboue al others Ephes. 1.5 1. Ioh. 3.14 They approue themselues to be elect by loue that is by their great affections to God to the word of God and his ordinances and by their brotherly kindnesse to the godly and this loue is the more euident marke when it lasts euen in affliction when no distresses makes vs abate of our affection to God or good things or good men Rom. 8.28 3. By their Priesthood Gods elect are a kingdome of Priests they offer God daily sacrifice they haue the spirit of prayer they daily mortifie the beast their sinnes vpon the Altar of Christ crucified So then by their praying and their mortification Gods elect may bee euidently knowne 1. Pet. 2.9.10 4. Fourthly they are vsually knowne by the opposition of the world If they were of the world the world would spare and loue his owne but because they are chosen out of the world therefore the world hates them and pursues them with reproches and indignations of all sorts Ioh. 15.18.19 If the world hate you you know that it hated mee before you If ye were of the world the world would loue his owne but because ye are not of the world but I haue chosen you out of the world therefore the world hateth you 5. Lastly this doctrine of Election should fill the hearts of all the godly with vnspeakable reioycing Euerlasting ioy should be vpon their heads and sorrow and mourning should fly away and the rather if they consider the maruellous priuiledges of their Election and the wonderfull happinesse vnto which they are chosen of God For if by the former signes thou know thy selfe to be one of Gods Elect. 1. First thou art sure of thy saluation and the glory of heauen when thou diest 2. Thessal 2.13.14 Whereunto hee called you by the Gospell to obtaine the glory of our Lord Iesus Christ. 2. The loue of God to thee is vnchangeable God will neuer cast off the people whom he hath chosen Rom. 11.2 God hath not cast away his people whom hee knew before 3. Thou art sure of gratious entertainment in Gods house and sweete communion with God whilest thou liuest Psal. 65.4 Blessed is he whom thou chusest and causest to come to thee he shall dwell in thy courts and we shall bee satisfied with the pleasures of thine house euen of thine holy Temple Esa. 65.13.14 Therefore thus saith the Lord God behold my seruants shall eate and ye shall bee hungry behold my seruants shall drink and ye shall bee thirsty behold my seruants shall reioyce and ye shall be ashamed Behold my seruants shall sing for ioy of heart and ye shall cry for sorrow of heart and shall howle for vexation of mind 4. Thou shalt be sure of protection against all aduersaries that dare or can rise vp against thee Esa. 41.10.11.12.13 Feare thou not for I am with thee bee not afraid for I am thy God I will strengthen thee and helpe thee and will sustaine thee with the right hand of my iustice Behold all they that prouoke thee shall bee ashamed and confounded they shall bee as nothing and they that striue with thee shall perish 5. Fifthly all thy afflictions shall be sweetned vnto thee and work together for the best Rom. 8.28 Also we know that all things worke together for the best vnto them that loue God euen to them that are called of his purpose 6. In all thy suites to God thou art sure of audience and compassionate respect howsoeuer thou bee neglected in the world Ioh. 15.16 Yee haue not chosen mee but I haue chosen you and ordained you that yee goe and bring forth fruit and that your fruit remaine that whatsoeuer ye shal aske of the Father in my name hee may giue it you 7. Christ will graciously communicate to thee the secrets of God and the mysteries of the kingdome vsing thee therein as a most deare and carefull friend Ioh. 15.16 as before 8. Lastly all complaints brought vnto God against thee are sure to be non-suted and cast out so as nothing can bee laid to thy charge nothing can condemne thee in as much as Christ hath paid all thy debts and sitteth at the right hand of God to make request for thee Rom. 8.33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of Gods chosen It is God that iustifieth c. CHAP. XII Of Christ. Act. 4.12 Neither is there saluation in any other for among men there is giuen none other name vnder heauen whereby we must be saued HItherto of Election The second fundamentall meanes of grace is Christ concerning whom the principles respect either 1. His Person 2. His office The principles concerning his person looke either 1. Vpon his diuine nature 2. or vpon his humane The principle that concernes his diuine nature is this That Iesus Christ is very God and that he is God may be proued 1. First by testimony of Scripture Esa. 9.6 For vnto vs a child is borne and vnto vs a sonne is giuen and he shall call his name wonderfull Counsellor the mighty God Ioh. 1.1 In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and that word was God Rom. 9.5 Of whom are the fathers and of whom concerning the flesh Christ came who is God ouer all blessed for euer Amen 1. Tim. 3.16 And without controuersie great
personall vnion is this of the diuine nature with the humane in one person The mystical vnion is of Christ with the Church in one body The sacramentall vnion is of the body and blood of Christ with bread and wine in one ordinance This vnion is not a vnion of inhabitation as God dwels in the Saints nor of consent only as the faithfull are one in the Father and the Sonne Nor of commixtion as water and wine are one nor of combination as two boords fastened together are one nor of composition when of two things is made some third thing in one But it is I say a personall vnion the humane nature of Christ being assumed into vnion with the person of the Sonne of God From whence ariseth A speciall manner of subsisting in the humane nature of Christ differing from other men For soule and body make a person in other men but not so in Christ. For his soule and body are borne vp and subsist in his diuine nature As the luie or Misseltoe growes without a root of it owne vpon the body of another tree so is it with the humane nature of Christ As soule and body in vs make one man so God and man make one Christ in him A communication of proprieties so as that which is proper to one nature is attributed to the whole person so the Sonne of God was crucified bought the Church with his blood 1. Cor. 2.8 Act. 20.28 The collation of gifts vpon the humane nature after an vnspeakable manner In respect of which the humane nature of Christ doth excell all creatures for wisedome goodnesse holinesse power maiesty and glory in as much as the God-head dwelles in him bodily Col. 2.9 For in him dwelleth all the fulnesse of the God-head bodily and so the second Adam doth farre excell the first It was needfull Christ should be God and man in one nature 1. That so he might reconcile or make God and man one againe 2. That so hee might bee a meet Mediator as being a kin to both parties 3. That he might pacifie God by his death which he could neither feele as God nor ouercome as man 4. That the works of redemption done in the flesh might bee sufficient price for sin by which the infinite God was wronged Here is also consolation in this doctrine for hence ariseth manifest reason of hope of pardon and peace with God and besides out of his fulnesse wee may now all receiue grace and a supply for all our wants Heere wee haue all the treasures of wisdome and grace in Christ-man and hee is now able to be a fountaine of more good to vs then euer the first Adam was of euill CHAP. XVII Of Christ as Mediator HItherto of the principles concerning the person of Christ his office followes The principles cōcerning his office consider it either in the whole or in the parts of it The whole office of Christ is to be a mediator and so the principles that concerne the mediatorship are fiue First that there is but one mediatour betweene God and man euen Iesus Christ 1. Tim. 2.5 For there is one God and one mediator betweene God and man which is the man Christ Iesus Act. 4.12 Neither is there saluation in any other for amongst men there is giuen none other name vnder heauen whereby we must bee saued Luk. 2.11 That is that vnto you is borne this day in the City of Dauid a Sauiour which is Christ the Lord. Because there is none more mercifull Heb. 2.17 Nor more able Heb. 7.25 That the cause of our saluation in his mediation is not merit in man but grace in God and Christ 2. Tim. 1.9 Who hath saued vs and called vs with an holy calling not according to our workes but according to his owne purpose and grace which was giuen to vs through Christ Iesus before the world was Tit. 3.4.5 But when the bountifulnesse and loue of God our Sauiour toward man appeared Not by the workes of righteousnesse which we had done but according to his mercy he saued vs by the washing of the new birth and the renewing of the holy Ghost Ephes. 2.8 For by grace are ye saued through faith and that not of your selues it is the gift of God That this mediation was from the beginning of the world and shall be to the end Hebr. 13.8 Iesus Christ yesterday and to day the same also is for euer 1. Pet. 1.20 Which was ordained before the foundation of the world but was declared in the last times for your sakes Reuel 13.8 Therefore all that dwell vpon the earth shall worship him whose names are not written in the booke of life of the Lambe which was slaine from the beginning of the world For in the knowledge destination and acceptation of God the two natures were accounted as vnited and with him the things done and to be done present and to come are all one For explication of this principle if we aske when the mediator was giuen it must be answered three waies 1. If we respect Gods decree he was giuen before all eternity Ephes. 1.4 As he hath chosen vs in him before the foundation of the world 2. If wee respect the vertue and efficacie of his mediation he was giuen when need was from the beginning of the world Reuel 13.8 Which was slaine from the beginning of the world 3. If we respect his manifestation in the flesh he was giuen in the fulnesse of time 1600. yeeres agoe Galath 4.4 But when the fulnesse of time was come God sent forth his Sonne made of a woman and made vnder the law 1. Tim. 2.6 Who gaue himselfe a ransome for all men to be a testimony in due time 4. That without the mediation of Christ no flesh can bee saued Act. 4.12 Neither is there saluation in any other for among men there is giuen none other name vnder heauen whereby we must bee saued Psalm 143.2 And enter not into iudgement with thy seruant for in thy sight shall none that liueth be iustified Iam. 3.2 For in many things we sinne all 5. That by the mediator a new agreement or contract was made with God Ierem. 31.33 But this shall be the couenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those dayes saith the Lord I will put my law in the inward parts and write it in their hearts and will be their God and they shall bee my people Heb. 8.13 In that he saith a new Testament he hath abrogated the old now that which is disanulled and waxed old is ready to vanish away Rom. 3.23.24 For there is no difference for all haue sinned and are depriued of the glory of God and are iustified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Iesus Galath 3.21.22 Is the Law then against the promise of God God forbid for if there had been a law giuen which could haue giuen life surely righteousnes should haue been by the law But the Scripture hath
which is the head that is Christ. By whom all the body being coupled and knit together by euery ioynt for the furniture thereof according to the effectual power which is in the measure of euery part receiueth encrease of the body into the edifying of it selfe in loue Thirdly that shee is knit vnto Christ her head by an indissoluble vnion Colos. 1.18 And hee is the head of the body of the Church hee is the beginning and the first horne of the dead that in all things he might haue the preeminence Colos. 2.19 And holdeth not the head whereof all the body furnished and knit together by ioynts and hands encreaseth with the encreasing of God 1. Cor. 12.27 Now ye are the body of Christ and members for your part Ephes. 1.22.23 And hath made all things subiect vnder his feet and hath appointed him ouer all things to be the head to the Church Which is his body euen the fulnesse of him that filleth all in all things So as she is truly bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh Ephes. 5.30 For wee are members of his body of his flesh and of his bones One with Christ not in nature as the Trinity is one nor in person as the two natures in Christ but in spirit Ioh. 4.13 Hereby know we that we dwell in him and he in vs because he hath giuen vs of his spirit For the spirit of the Sonne dwelleth in vs. Fourthly that shee is holy Ephes. 5.27 That he might make it vnto himselfe a glorious Church not hauing spot or wrinkle or any such thing but that it should be holy and without blame c. 1. Pet. 2.9 But ye are a chosen generation a royall priesthood an holy nation a peculiar people that ye should shew forth the vertues of him that hath called you out of darknesse into his maruellous light c. Dan. 7.18 And they shall take the kingdome of the Saints of the most high and possesse the kingdome for euer euen for euer and euer And so she is holy 1. By separation from the world in that the godly are consecrated to holy vses they are holy by calling 2. By inchoation of true holinesse in nature and practice Tit. 3.5 Not by the workes of righteousnesse which wee had done but according to his mercy he saued vs by the washing of the new birth and the renuing of the holy Ghost 3. By imputation of Christs holinesse being washed in his blood Heb. 10.10 By the which will we are sanctified euen by the offering of the body of Iesus Christ once made 4. By consummation of all holinesse in the other world Fifthly she is Catholick this is one of the Articles of the Creed the Church is Catholick in three respects 1. In respect of time all the godly being members of this one body though they liue in all the seuerall ages since the beginning of the world 2. In respect of place because all the iust both in heauen and earth are all of this one body Ephes. 1.10 That in the dispensation of the fulnesse of the times hee might gather together in one all things both which are in heauen and which are in earth euen in Christ. And so from all parts of the world is the Church gathered all the particular Churches in the world are but members of this Church vniuersall 3. In respect of persons because it is gathered especially since Christ out of all nations there being no difference put in respect of mens outward condition Reuel 5.9.10 And they sung a new song saying Thou art worthy to take the booke and to open the seales thereof because thou wast killed and hast redeemed vs to God by thy blood out of euery kindred and tongue and people and nation And hast made vs vnto our God Kings and Priests and wee shall raigne on earth Galath 3.28 There is neither Iew nor Grecian there is neither bond nor free there is neither male nor female for yee are all one in Christ Iesus Sixthly that shee is militant that is she is in this life exposed to crosses and afflictions and tentations and oppositions 2. Timoth. 4.7.8 I haue sought a good fight and haue finished my course I haue kept the faith For henceforth is laid vp for me the crowne of righteousnesse which the Lord the righteous Iudge shall giue me at the day and not to mee onely but vnto all them also which loue his appearing Luk. 9.24 For whosoeuer will saue his life shall lose it and whosoeuer shall lose his life for my sake the same shall saue it Act. 14.22 Confirming the disciples hearts and exhorting them to continue in the faith affirming that wee must through many afflictions enter into the kingdome of God c. Reuel 1.9 I Iohn euen your brother and companion in tribulation and in the kingdome and patience of Iesus Christ was in the isle called Patmos for the word of God and for the witnessing of Iesus Christ. Reuel 12.11 But they ouercame him by the blood of the Lambe and by the word of their testimony and they loued not their liues vnto the death c. Ephes. 6.12 For we wrastle not against flesh blood but against principalities against powers against the worldly gouernours the princes of the darknesse of this world c. Now the Lord would haue his Church so exposed to crosses both for his owne sake and for hers and for his enemies sake 1. For his owne sake that he might shew his hatred of sin euen in his owne and the glory also of his power and mercy in their deliuerance as well as his iustice in their afflictions 2. For their sakes that being in the warfare humbled and tamed for their sinnes they might not perish with the world 1. Cor. 11. 31.32 and may be herein like to Christ Rom. 8.27 3. For their enemies sake that they may know that they shall neuer bee spared if God spare not his owne children 1. Pet. 4.17 For the time is come that iudgement must begin at the house of God if it first begin at vs what shall the end be of them which obey not the Gospell of God Seuenthly that she is inuincible Matth. 16.18 And I say also vnto thee that thou art Peter and vpon this rocke I will build my Church and the gates of hell shall not ouercome it Rom. 8.37 Neuerthelesse in all these things we are more then conquerers through him that loued vs. 38. For I am perswaded that neither death nor life nor Angels nor principalities nor powers nor things present nor things to come 39. Nor height nor depth nor any other creature shall be able to separate vs from the loue of God which is in Christ Iesus our Lord. 1. Pet. 5.10 And the God of all grace which hath called vs vnto his eternall glory by Christ Iesus after that yee haue suffered a little make you perfect confirme strengthen and stablish you c. The vses of these principles may be either
is the mystery of godlinesse which is God is manifested in the flesh iustified in the spirit c. 1. Ioh. 5.20 But we know that the Sonne of God is come and hath giuen vs a mind to know him which is true and we are in him that is true that is in his son Iesus Christ this same is very God and eternall life 2. By the diuine proprieties giuē vnto him as Eternity Ioh. 1.1 Ioh. 17.5 Omnipotency Ioh. 3.31 Phil. 4.13 Sauiour King of Kings and the like 3. By diuine workes done by him as Creation Coloss. 1.16 Forgiuenesse of sinnes Matth. 9.6 Working of miracles Ioh. 10.25 4. By the diuine honour due vnto him as Adoration Psalm 72.11 Heb. 1.8 and beleeuing in him 5. By the conquest the Gospel hath made in the world 1. Tim. 3.16 and that not by any carnall power Zach. 4.6 6. By the patient suffering of his Saints Reuel 12.11 But they ouercame him by the blood of the Lambe and by the word of their testimony and they loued not their liues vnto the death c. But why was it needfull hee should be God For two causes chiefly 1. The one was the greatnes of our euill which no creature could take off vs viz. 1. the grieuousnesse of our sinnes 2. The immense intolerable waight of Gods anger 3. The Empire of death 4. The tyranny of the diuell 2. The other was the greatnes of our good which none but God could restore viz. 1. An obedience to iustifie many 2. The image of God 1. Cor. 1.30 Colos. 3.10 If our Sauiour be the sonne of God yea God himselfe that holds it no robbery to be equall with God Then it may first serue for humiliation and so 1. To the world In which this glorious light hath risen and yet their darknesse comprehended it not Ioh. 1.5.10 To the very godly because they are not so affected as may become this maruellous glory of the Sonne of God it should much abase vs that we haue not thoughts and affections to take that notice wee should of this Sonne of righteousnesse so gloriously in the Gospell shining amongst vs we doe not receiue him conceiue of him as this doctrine teacheth vs how often hath he come amongst his owne and his owne receiued him not Ioh. 1.11 For instruction and so it should worke in vs 1. Illumination to see the greatnesse of the mistery of godlines that tels vs of God manifested in the flesh 1. Tim. 3.16 Our eyes should in this point receiue sight and clearing This doctrine should shine in our hearts as the Sunne in the firmament wee should neuer rest informing our selues heerein and praying for discerning till after much neglect and vnbeleefe past we could say with Thomas My Lord and my God Matth. 16.16 Ioh. 20.28 This is the rocke vpon which the Church is built 2. The estimation of his sufferings for vs this blood of the new Testament was the blood of God Act. 20.28 3. The celebratiō of his praises is God ouer all then let him be blessed for euermore Rom. 9.5 Of whom are the fathers and of whom concerning the flesh Christ came who is God ouer all blessed for euer Amen 4. The adoration of his person when God brings forth his onely begotten Sonne let all the Angels of heauen worship him Heb. 1.4 5. Faith this should make vs beleeue in him and relie vpon the sufficiency of the redemption in him yea we should neuer rest till we know him and that we are in him For this is eternall life Ioh. 1.7 The same came for a witnesse to beare witnesse of the light that all men through him might beleeue 1. Ioh. 5.20 But we know that the Sonne of God is come and hath giuen vs a mind to know him which is true and wee are in him that is true that is in the Sonne Iesus Christ the same is very God and eternall life The consideration of the diuinity of Christ should wonderfully comfort vs so it is vsed in diuers Scriptures For if he be God thē he is ful of grace to supply our wants Ioh. 1.14.16 He is infinite in righteousnes to iustifie vs Ierem. 23.6 The gouernment being on his sholders he will euer bee knowne to bee wonderfull as a Counsellor to direct vs as a mighty God to defend vs as an euerlasting father to loue vs and pity vs and spare vs and beare with our infirmities as a Prince of peace to preserue vs in our reconciliation with God and to fill vs with peace that passeth all vnderstanding and that we may not doubt of perseuerance the Prophet assures vs that of the encrease of his gouernment and peace there shall be no end for he will order vs and establish vs henceforth and for euer CHAP. XIII Of Christs humanity HItherto of the diuine nature of Christ There are foure principles concerning the humane nature of Christ the one concernes the matter the other three concerne the manner 1. The first that the Sonne of God was incarnate did assume the true nature of man and was a very man amongst vs Ioh. 1.1 In the beginning was the word and the word was with God and that word was God 14. And the word was made flesh and dwelt among vs and we saw the glory thereof as the glory of the only begotten Sonne of the Father full of grace and truth Hebr. 2.14 For as much then as the children were partakers of flesh and blood he also himselfe likewise tooke part with them 16. For hee in no sort tooke the Angels but hee tooke the seed of Abraham 2. That hee was not conceiued as other men but by the holy Ghost Luk. 1.35 And the Angell answered and said vnto her the holy Ghost shall come vpon thee and the power of the most high shall ouershadow thee therefore also that holy thing which shall bee borne of thee shall be called the Son of God Mat. 1.20 Feare not to take Mary for thy wife for that which is conceiued in her is of the holy Ghost 3. That hee was borne of a Virgin Esa. 7.14 Therefore the Lord himselfe will giue you a signe behold the Virgin shall conceiue and beare a Sonne and she shall call his name Emmanuel Matth. 1.18 Now the birth of Iesus Christ was thus when as his mother Mary was betrothed to Ioseph before they came together she was found with child of the holy Ghost Genes 3.15 I will also put enmity betweene thee and the woman and betweene thy seed and her seed hee shall breake thine head and thou shalt bruise his heele 4. That his humane nature did subsist in the diuine nature and so both made but one person Colos. 2.9 For in him dwelleth all the fulnesse of the God-head bodily Luk. 1.35 And the Angel answered and said vnto her The holy Ghost shall come vpon thee and the power of the most high shal ouershadow thee therefore also that holy thing which shall be borne of thee
earth and to come to dwell amongst men a heauenly temple is prouided for him the holy Ghost builds him a temple in the wombe of a Virgin 2. Concerning the freedome of Christ from Originall sinne we might aske How could Christ be free from sinne seeing he came of Adam whose nature was infected in all his posteritie Now this is answered in this principle for Christ came of Adam but not by Adam but by the holy Ghost The holy Ghost miraculously formed Christs body of the substance of the Virgin stopping the course of originall sinne and sanctifying it sinne comes into the world by propagation only 3. Concerning the sufficiency of the sacrifice of Christ It must needes bee an admirable sacrifice that is thus fitted from the wombe 4. Concerning the superstition of the Papists about the Virgin Marie for they attribute the purity of Christs nature to the holinesse of the Virgin that shee was without sinne whereas it is euident it is to be attributed to the holy Ghost 5. Concerning the possibilitie for Christ to be borne of a virgin It is as easie for God to frame vnto Christ a body in the wombe of a Virgin as to make mans body at the first of the myer of the earth Secondly for Instruction and so this conception by the holy Ghost should teach vs 1. First to be wise to sobriety in this mysterie of the incarnation of Christ a purer sense and a cleaner hearing is called-for here the ouershadowing of the virgin shewes that we must bring faith to beleeue the mysterie without further inquiring 2. To desire feruently the sanctifying of our natures that wee as his members might bee conformed vnto him as our head and so we are if Christ be conceiued in our hearts by the holy Ghost as hee was conceiued in the womb of the Virgin Gal. 4.7 For consolation and so his conception is comfortable especially in two things 1. First the holinesse of his conception will iustifie vs from the vnholinesse of our conception and quit vs from the guilt and filth of originall sinne 2. Secondly it may comfort vs in the expectation of our perfect holinesse Hee that was so carefull to haue his naturall body fitted so exquisitely will not neglect his mysticall body the Church but will loue it and wash it till it bee without spot and wrinkle and the rather because it is bone of his bone and flesh of his flesh Ephes. 5.25.26 And thus of the vse of the conception CHAP. XV. Of Christ as borne of a virgin THirdly in that our Sauiour was borne of a Virgin it may serue For Information and so 1. Concerning the maruelous wisdome of God in the maner of our saluation By a woman came sinne and death into the world and loe here the seed of the woman breakes the Serpents head The diuell got to be the god of the world by beguiling a woman Now see how the Lord hath deuised to destroy his dominion by one made of a woman they were both Virgins affianced to husbands but not yet knowne of man But might some one say This is beyond beliefe that a Virgin should bring forth and yet remaine a virgin hauing neuer knowne man this seemeth to be incredible If it had been a thing which had no resemblance in nature yet it had been nothing to beleeue the power of the God of nature but yet there is instance of things borne in nature without generation The Bees haue young and yet know not marriage The Easterne bird the Phenix is borne and new borne successiuely and yet without parents and shal we hold it beyond beliefe for God to doe this great work vpon him that was to restore the world Christ is like the flower which hath the heauen for father and the earth for mother But how can it become the greatnesse of the Sonne of God to abase himselfe to lie in the wombe of the Virgin The Sunne in the firmament receiues not infection from any place nor can any thing cast into the fier steine it much lesse can the Sonne of God be polluted by being borne of a Virgin 2. Secondly this may furnish vs with an argument against Transubstantiation The Scripture teacheth vs to beleeue that Christ was made of a woman Gal. 4.4 but not a word is there that hee should bee made of a piece of bread Secondly hath God created this new thing in the world that a woman should compasse a man why then doe we go about why loose we our labour Why settle we not our hearts directly vpon this Iesus who is assigned vs thus wonderfully of God to bee our way our light and our life This very doctrin was vsed long since to rebuke mens extreme distractions and losse of time and labour in the way to the Kingdome of heauen Ier. 31.21 Yea this doctrine ought to be vnto vs Gods signe that he will deliuer vs certainely and fulfil al his promises and it extremely threatens the vnbeliefe of man as the Prophet Isaiah vrgeth it in the daies of Ahaz Isaiah 7.14 Thirdly this should kindle in vs a vehemēt desire to haue God reueale his sonne in vs and to haue Christ borne in our hearts we thinke the Virgin blessed aboue women that Christ was conceiued in her wombe why certainely it is a great wonder and wee were blessed amongst men and women if the Lord Iesus bee conceiued in our hearts and we keepe our selues chast virgins to him There hath been foure waies of making man 1. The one was to make man without either man or woman so was Adam made 2. The second was to make man without a woman so was Eue made 3. The third was to make man by both man and woman and so we their posteritie are made 4. The fourth way was to make man without man by the woman only and so was Christ-man made Now if wee admire the first second and fourth of these why should wee not also admire the creating of a man without wombe euen in the heart of a man Is it not a great wonder that the Sonne of God should be formed in our breast and yet such is the worke of God in the new birth of a Christian Christ is formed in them Galath 4.9 My little children of whom I trauell in birth againe vntill Christ be formed in you CHAP. XVI Of the personall vnion ANd thus of the birth of Christ of a Virgin The personall vnion may serue both for information and for consolation For information concerning the maruellous glory of Christ especially of the exaltation of the humane nature Heere is an vnion singularly wonderfull and wonderfully singular Nay what say I a vnion Why there bee so many vnions in Christ that worthily all may bee said to bee gathered together in one in him There is a naturall personall mysticall and sacramentall vnion in Christ. The naturall vnion is with the Father and the holy Ghost in one nature or essence The
hee accomplished and proclaimed in his resurrection from the dead For the second the Regall glory of Christ consisted in two things the first was the glorification of his humane nature And the second was his triumph ouer his enemies The glorificatiō of his humane nature contained 1. the deposition of all the infirmities accompanying our nature which hee vndertooke for our sakes so as now hee ceased to hunger or thirst or bee weary or feele any paine or griefe nor could he suffer any more or die 2. The perfecting of his humane nature with all the degrees of celestiall gifts and endowments could possibly befall a created nature both in body and mind His very body was glorified surpassing the Sunne in the firmament for splendor and brightnesse Now for the triumph of Christ he acted it two waies 1. In those frequent manifestations after his resurrection for the 40. dayes hee was pleased to abide on earth 2. In that most glorious ascension riding in the chariot of triumph vp into heauen leading with him captiuity captiue The third thing is his taking possession of his kingdome and this he did when he sat downe at the right hand of the Maiesty of God and was exalted aboue all that is named and had power ouer all things giuen him of his Father The fourth thing is his administration of the kingdome of which hee is now possest and this hath in it foure things 1. The calling and gathering together both of Iewes and Gentiles belonging to the election of God Rom. 8.30 Ephes. 4.11 12. Esa. 11.11.12 2. The prescribing of lawes as the onely law-giuer of the Church and this he doth when hee propoundeth vnto his subiects the rules both of beleeuing and liuing by the word and ministry of the same adding thereunto the work of the Spirit writing his lawes vpon their hearts Iam. 4.12 Ier. 31.33 2. Cor. 3. 17.18 3. The donation of gifts inabling men to the Kingdome of God Ephes. 4.8 Philip. 1.29 4. The execution of Iustice and so he doth iustice 1. Amongst his owne subiects and so he doth them Iustice 1. In iustifying them from their sins in acquitting them and pronouncing them absolued from all the sentences of Gods iustice giuen out against them 2. By distributing rewards among them both in spirituall and temporall things 3. By keeping them in their bonds and preseruing them in the feare of God and a iust course of life 2. Against his enemies whom he either restraines or subdues hee restraines them by setting them their bounds which they may not passe by infatuating their counsels and by being a wall of brasse about his owne He subdues them either by conuerting them and so making them come in and doe him homage or else by confounding them which he begins partly by outward iudgements partly by induration as deliuering them vp to a reprobate sense and accomplishing it in their miserable ends casting them into vtter darkenesse This administration of his kingdome he executes partly in this life and partly in the world to come the one is his kingdom of grace the other of glory what is but begun here is fully made compleate in that other world The Vses of the Regall office of Christ follow And those are partly for Instruction partly for Consolation First for Instruction and wee should learne 1. To ascribe all glory and dominion to him for euer wee should so admire the greatnesse and maiesty of our King as our hearts should bee most affectionately moued to his continuall praises Let the people praise thee O God yea let all the people praise thee O sing praises to our God sing praises sing praises with vnderstanding Psal. 47.6.7 Reuel 1.5 Reuel 5.12.13.14 Saying with a loud voice Worthie is the Lambe that was killed to receiue power and riches and wisdome and strength and honour and glory and praise And all the creatures which are in heauen and on the earth and vnder the earth and in the sea and all that are in them heard I saying Praise and honour and glory and power be vnto him that sitteth vpon the throne and vnto the Lambe for euermore c. And to this end wee should learne 2. To pray that God would giue vs the spirit of wisdome and reuelation that the eies of our vnderstanding may bee enlightned to discerne the working of his mighty power which hee wrought in Christ when he raised him from the dead and set him at his owne right hand in heauenly places farre aboue all principalities and powers and euery name that is named not onely in this world but also in that which is to come hath put all things vnder his feete and made him head ouer all things belonging to the Church Ephes. 1.17 to the end And with all we should stirre vp our selues 3. To pray daily that his kingdome may come that the people that yet are in darkenesse may be conuerted and that his glory may shine more and more in those that haue submitted themselues to his Scepter and to this end that the ordinances of his kingdome especially the preaching of the Gospell may run with power and mightily conquer and enlarge the bounds of his kingdome and that all opposite kingdomes may be subuerted as is that of Anti-Christ especially that his kingdome of glory may be hastened vpon vs. And for our owne parts wee should euery one be ready 4. To send our Lamb to the Ruler of the earth Isai. 16.1 to tender our homage and offer our seruice testifie our aleageance with all humilitie and thankefulnesse vnto this King of Kings the Lord our mighty Redeemer and throughout the course of our liues 5. To bow at the name of Iesus and to feare him that is a great King aboue all gods and hath a name aboue all names to confesse his soueraigntie and submit to his gouernment and to tremble before him and to thinke of him with all reuerence Phil. 2.9.10 11. Psalm 2.10.11 6. And to come willingly at all the times of the publike assembly of his armies in holy beauty we should all flock to the colours of the King and neuer giue ouer the care of assembling our selues in the courts of our God but with al gladnesse go vp to the house of the Lord the courts of the King the place of his holy presence where he sits in his throne amongst vs Ps. 110.3 7. To seeke to Christ in al our necessities seeing hee is so exalted that now he is able to help vs in all times of need according to the riches of his glory 8. To be tender and zealous for the glory and honor of Christ shall not our hearts rise at the dishonour of our King 9. To obserue whatsoeuer he commands in nothing refusing him that speaketh from heauen Mat. 28.20 Teaching them to obserue all things whatsoeuer I haue commanded you c. Heb. 12.25 See that ye despise not him that speaketh for if they escaped not which refused him that spake on
glories in our bodies then so it may adde vnto our comfort and the establishment of it if we consider three things more to wit first the certaintie of all this that it shall come Secondly the shortnesse of the time thither Thirdly the condition of the body till then For the first wee should not doubt of it because we are borne againe to this hope wee are children of the resurrection now and so called Luke 20.36 And besides Christ hath a charge to loose nothing no not of the bodies of the Saints Ioh. 6.39 And this is the Fathers will which hath sent me that of all which he hath giuen mee I should loose nothing but should raise it vp againe at the last day And he came to this end to dissolue the workes of the diuell which is sinne and death by sin 1. Iohn 3.8 Christ also is the first fruit of the dead 1. Cor. 15.20 And further we haue felt of the power of Christ in raising our soules alreadie he that by his word made all things can by the same voice bring backe our bodies againe Ob. That the bodies resolued to dust and ashes should rise is against cōmon sense and reason Solut. It is aboue reason but not against it Can men of ashes make glasse and cannot God of dust make againe the body Ob. But the bodies dead are often mingled with the bodies of beasts or other creatures Sol. The Goldsmith by his art can seuer mettals and extract one mettall out of another and cannot God distinguish these dusts c Ob. Flesh and blood cannot come into the Kingdome of heauen 1. Cor. 15.50 Sol. By flesh and blood is not meant the body simply but as it is clothed with sin and infirmity which shall be done away in the resurrection Ob. The condition of man and beast is one Eccles. 3.19 For the condition of the children of men and the condition of beasts are euen as one condition vnto them As the one dieth so dieth the other for they haue all one breath and there is no excellencie of man aboue the beast for all is vanitie Sol. First they are like in dying not in the estate after death Secondly it may be said those words are the obiection of the Epicure not the opinion of Salomon 〈◊〉 second it may adde to our comfort that the Lord is at hand Phil. 4.5 and that it is but a little season thither to Reuel 6.11 〈◊〉 third the present condition of our bodies euen in the graue should comfort vs for 1. The couenant of God is of force euen with them as they lie in the dust of the earth Mat. 22. 31.32 2. The vnion with Christ holds still Col. 1.18 3. They are not dead but a sleepe in Iesus 1. Thes. 4.13 〈◊〉 fourth wo vnto wicked men euen because of the resurrection they shal sleep for a while in their bodies but when they wake they must be had away to execution They that haue done euill shall rise vnto shame and contempt and condemnation their bodies shall rise in dishonor deformitie passible tormented with eternall and vnutterable tortures liuing in darkenesse without light liuing I say for euer onely to feele the paines of eternal dying shut vp in prison and denied the comfort of the meanest creatures it were well for them if they did neuer rise Reuel 20.14.15 Dan. 12.2 Iohn 5.29 CHAP. XXVII Of the last Iudgement 2. Cor. 5.10 For wee must all appeare before the iudgement seate of Christ that euery man may receiue the things which are done in his bodie according to that he hath done whether it be good or euill HItherto of the Resurrection the last Iudgment followes The Principles concerning the last iudgement are these First that there shall bee a generall iudgement Iude 14.15 And Enoch also the seuenth from Adam prophesied of such saying Behold the Lord commeth with thousand of Saints To giue iudgement against all men and to rebuke all the vngodly among them of all their wicked deedes which they haue vngodlily committed and of all their cruell speakings which wicked sinners haue spoken against him Psalm 9.8 For he shall iudge the world in righteousnesse and shall iudge the people with equitie Psalm 50.1 The God of Gods euen the Lord hath spoken and called the earth from the rising vp of the Sunne vnto the going downe thereof c. Heb. 9.27 And as it is appointed vnto men that they shal once die and after that commeth the iudgement Dan. 7.9.10 I beheld till the thrones were set vp and the Ancient of daies did sit whose garment was white as snow and the haire of his head like the pure wooll his throne was like the fierie flame and his wheeles as burning fier A fierie streame issued and came forth from before him thousand thousands ministred vnto him and ten thousand thousands stood before him the Iudgement was set and the bookes opened Secondly that Christ shall be the Iudge and that in the humane nature Act. 10.42 And hee commanded vs to preach vnto the people and to testifie that it is he that is ordained of God a Iudge of quicke and dead Acts 17.13 Because he hath appointed a day in the which hee will iudge the world in righteousnesse by that man whom he hath appointed whereof he hath giuen an assurance to al men in that he raised him from the dead 2. Tim. 4.1 I charge thee therfore before God and before the Lord Iesus Christ which shall iudge the quicke and dead at his appearing and in his Kingdome Iohn 5.22 For the Father iudgeth no man but hath committed all iudgement vnto the Sonne Ob. The Apostles shall iudge the twelue Tribes Matth. 19.28 Sol. 1. The Apostles iudge the twelue Tribes by their faith and doctrine the example whereof shall take away all excuse from the Israelites 2. They shall be as Iustices of Peace on the Bench and consent to Christs iudgement Ob. The Saints shall iudge the world 1. Cor. 6.2 Sol. As assessors with Christ bearing witnesse to it approouing it and assenting to it as the Apostles before 2. As they are members of Christ the Iudge 3. As their example shall bee alleaged to condemne the wicked Ob. But the Father and holy Ghost iudge too Sol. The Father doth iudge by the Sonne as by his representatiue Wisdome Iohn 5.22 For the Father iudgeth no man but hath committed all iudgement vnto the Sonne Dan. 7.13.14 As I beheld in visions by night behold one like the Sonne of Man came in the clouds of heauen and approched vnto the Ancient of daies and they brought him before him 14. And he gaue him dominion and honour and a Kingdome that all people nations c. Or thus the authority of iudging is common to the three persons but the execution onely proper to the Sonne Thirdly all men shall be iudged at that day iust and vniust quicke and dead small great Iude 15. To giue iudgement against all men and to rebuke all the
and not to mee onely but vnto all them also that loue his appearing Reuel 21.24 And the people which are saued shall walke in the light of it and the Kings of the earth shall bring their glory and honour vnto it Which as it imports a perfection of splendor in euery Saint so it doth not dissolue the degrees or orders of glory euery man shall bee aduanced in his owne lot Dan. 12.13 But goe thou thy way till the end be for thou shalt rest and stand vp in thy lot at the end of the dayes 1. Cor. 15.40 There are also heauenly bodies and earthly bodies but the glory of the heauenly is one and the glory of the earthly is another Patriarches Prophets Euangelists Martyrs shall not want their eminency in heauen The fourth is dominion and rule ouer all creatures that which we lost in Adam shall be perfectly restored in heauen after the last iudgement Reuel 2.26 For hee that ouercommeth and keepeth my words vnto the end to him will I giue power ouer nations The fifth is possession of all the pleasures which are at Gods right hand vnutterable ioyes riuers of pleasures This is that which in a sparing language is called the time of refreshing Act. 3.19 Amend your liues therefore and turne that your sinnes may be put away when the time of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord. Psalm 16.11 Thou wilt shew me the path of life in thy presence is the fulnesse of ioy and at thy right hand there are pleasures for euermore For if the ioy of the godly in this life be called 1. Pet. 1.17 A ioy vnspeakable and glorious And if the Lord giue them drink out of the riuer of thy pleasures in this world as Psal. 36.8.9 How much more shall it exceed all language in heauen called the masters ioy The felicities which I haue here mentioned are for the most part common both to soule and body Now there is a peculiar felicity in heauen belonging to the bodies of men which consists in that maruellous transfiguration of them to a condition in respect of qualities farre aboue what they are or can be in this world Our bodies in generall shall be made like the glorious body of Christ though on earth they are but vile Philip. 3.21 Who shall change our vile body that it may be fashioned like vnto his glorious body according to the working wherby hee is able euen to subdue all things vnto himselfe They shall enioy eternall health but of the glory of the body I haue entreated before in the vse of the doctrine of the Resurrection Thus of the parts of this glory The Adiuncts of it follow And so there bee foure things in the consideration of the glory to come should much affect vs. First that it is a glory vnspeakable that is it is so great that no language on earth can describe it For though we mention those foresaid parts of it yet our narrow hearts and mouthes are infinitely straitned in comparison of the full glory of man in these things 1 Cor. 2.9 But as it is written The things which eye hath not seene neither eare hath heard neither came into mans heart are which God hath prepared for them that loue him c. Secondly that it is certaine and we cannot be disappointed of it else it were vncomfortable to heare of so much felicitie and holinesse and yet not bee sure to possesse it The certaintie of it that God will bestow such glory may appeare diuers waies 1. There is an act or ordinance for it in Gods eternall Counsell 2. Tim. 2.19 But the foundation of God remaineth sure and hath this seale The Lord knoweth who are his and Let euery one that calleth on the name of Christ depart from iniquitie Ephes. 1.4 As he hath chosen vs in him before the foundation of the world that wee should bee holy and without blame before him in loue Rom. 8.30 Moreouer whom he predestinate them also he called and whom he called them also he iustified and whom hee iustified them he also glorified Matth. 25.34 Come ye blessed of my Father inherit ye the Kingdome prepared for you from the foundations of the world 2. Christ purchased it with his blood Ephes. 1.14 3. Christ hath made intercession when he was on earth vnto his Father that hee might haue his redeemed Ones to be where he is Iohn 17.11 And now am I no more in the world but these are in the world and I come to thee holy Father keepe them in thy name Vers. 24. Father I will that they which thou hast giuen mee bee with me euen where I am that they may behold my glory which thou hast giuen me for thou louedst me before the foundation of the world 4. God hath made vs many promises and giuen vs not onely his word but his oth to assure it vnto vs Heb. 6.17 So God willing more abundantly to shew vnto the heires of promise the stablenesse of his Counsell bound himselfe by an oath Vers. 18. That by two immutable things wherein it is impossible that God should lie we might haue strong consolation which haue our refuge to hold fast the hope that is set before vs c. 5. He hath sealed to it not only in the Sacrament but by his spirit which will bee our witnesse and is our earnest Ephes. 1.13 Wherein also after that yee beleeued you were sealed with the holy Spirit of promise Vers. 14. Which is the earnest of our inheritance vntill the redemption of the possession purchased vnto the praise of his glory 6. He hath begun eternall life in vs already 7. Christ is gone into heauen of purpose to prouide a place ready for vs Ioh. 14.3 And though I goe to prepare a place for you I will come againe and receiue you vnto my selfe that where I am there may ye be also Heb. 10.19 Seeing therefore bretheren that by the blood of Iesus we may be bold to enter into the holy place Vers. 20. By the new and liuing way which he hath prepared for vs through the vale which is his flesh Thus of the certaintie of it The third thing is the eternitie of it all this glory were the lesse if it were thought it would euer end but it shall neuer end for 1. Nothing of it shall be lost or decay 2. There shall bee no death there for death and hell are cast into the lake of fier 3. There shall be no old age or withering condition in men that possesse it it withers not 1. Pet. 1.4 To an inheritance immortall and vndefiled and that fadeth not away reserued in heauen for you 4. God being all in all there shal be no wearinesse no fulnesse of affections or satietie no loathing Diuines are wont to shadow out eternity by the similitude of a little bird drinking vp a drop of water out of the sea if euery ten thousand yeeres the bird should come drink vp but one drop yet the sea might bee dry at length but yet this lasting of the sea is nothing in comparison to the lasting of the glory of heauen Fourthly and vnto these may bee added the proximity of it the day of the Lord is at hand It were some lessening of our happines if it were a long time to it FINIS ERRATA Pag. 4. lin 22. for Praises reade Oracles p. 51. l. 4. r. by a perpetuall decree p. 74. l. 16. put out a. p. 107. l. 17. r. vp for vpon p. 108. l. 16. for Sould r Should p. 407. l. 4 r. wrinckle p. 434. l. 17.21 and p. 435. l. 8 put out Sol and r. Secondly Thirdly Fourthly p. 486. l. 11. put out all the Chapter p. 499. l. 11. r. or secondly 3 Things intended in this Treatise The benefit of attending to this course The warrant of this course Question Answere Principles may bee knowne three waies The diuision of Principles according to their chiefe heads Two principles about the Scriptures The Scripturs are the very word of God proued by testimonies externall and internall Iohn 1.7 Prou. 30.6 Reuel 22.18 The vses 1. For instruction 2 For reproofe 1 Of the Papists in 4. things 2 Of Carnall Protestants 3 Of the godly 3 For triall 4 For consolation 4 Principles concerning God That there is a God is proued first by testimonies internall 2 By testimonies externall and so either in the world or in the Church 10 Glories in the nature of God The vses 1 For instruction If wee would study the glorious nature of God we must obserue 6. rules For humiliation For consolation Proofes for the Trinity Vses of the doctrine of the Trinity That there is but one God proued The vses 5 Principles concerning the Creation Vses 1 For information 6 Vses for instruction Vses for reproofe 7 Principles concerning Gods prouidence The vses 1 For information 11 Things admirable in Gods prouidence Vses for reproofe 8 Vses for instruction Vse for consolation Man was after the Image of God three waies The vses The speciall fauour of God to man in his Creation Duties 1 To God 2 To our selues 3 To other men 3 Principles concerning the fall of man 7 Things to shew the greatnesse of Adams sinne Obiect Answ. 3 Occasions of Apostasie 5 Degrees of the diuels tentation 4 Principles concerning sinne 14 Foule blemishes in euery mans nature 9 Vses for information 7 Things make ciuill honest men miserable 17. sorts of punishments inflicted on man for his sinne Eph. 5.14 1. Cor. 15. Act. 17.31 Rom. 5. â—2 c. andâ— 1 Mat. 11.29 1. Ioh. 2.1 Gal. 3.13 2. Cor. 5.17 Psa. 22.24 Question Answere Question Answere Question Answere Quest. Answ. Obiect Solution Obiect Solution Obiection Solution Iam. 2.5 What these things meane is vnknowne Rise first in soule