to_o ourselves_o i._o for_o the_o explication_n of_o it_o by_o the_o immutability_n of_o god_n we_o mean_v that_o he_o always_o be_v and_o be_v and_o to_o all_o eternity_n will_v be_v the_o same_o that_o he_o undergo_v no_o change_n either_o of_o his_o essence_n and_o be_v or_o of_o his_o property_n and_o perfection_n in_o reference_n to_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o his_o be_v he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v eternal_a incorruptible_a and_o only_o to_o have_v immortality_n in_o reference_n to_o his_o perfection_n he_o be_v always_o the_o same_o infinite_o wise_a and_o good_a and_o powerful_a and_o holy_a and_o just_a be_v from_o whence_o it_o follow_v that_o he_o be_v constant_a and_o immutable_a in_o all_o his_o decree_n and_o counsel_n his_o purpose_n and_o promise_v we_o be_v uncertain_a and_o mutable_a in_o in_o our_o very_a nature_n and_o being_n and_o in_o all_o those_o quality_n and_o perfection_n which_o belong_v to_o we_o in_o all_o our_o purpose_n resolution_n and_o action_n we_o be_v continual_o grow_v or_o decrease_v in_o this_o or_o that_o quality_n and_o do_v frequent_o change_v from_o one_o extreme_a to_o another_o from_o that_o which_o be_v more_o perfect_a to_o the_o contrary_a now_o know_v and_o then_o ignorant_a sometime_o wise_a and_o often_o foolish_a strong_a and_o weak_a better_a or_o worse_o as_o it_o happen_v and_o as_o we_o order_v ourselves_o continual_o wax_v or_o wane_v in_o our_o knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n and_o power_n we_o frequent_o change_v our_o mind_n and_o alter_v our_o purpose_n and_o break_v our_o promise_n and_o contradict_v our_o firm_a and_o most_o serious_a resolution_n and_o speak_v a_o thing_n and_o do_v it_o not_o say_v it_o and_o do_v not_o bring_v it_o to_o pass_v but_o god_n be_v everlasting_o the_o same_o in_o all_o his_o perfection_n constant_a to_o his_o intention_n steady_a to_o his_o purpose_n immutable_o fix_v and_o persevere_v in_o all_o his_o decree_n and_o resolution_n i_o proceed_v to_o the_o ii_o thing_n i_o propose_v namely_o to_o show_v that_o this_o perfection_n be_v essential_a to_o god_n to_o be_v unchangeable_o what_o he_o be_v and_o this_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o make_v manifest_a both_o from_o natural_a reason_n and_o from_o the_o divine_a revelation_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n 1._o from_o the_o dictate_v of_o natural_a reason_n which_o tell_v we_o that_o nothing_o argue_v great_a weakness_n and_o imperfection_n than_o inconstancy_n and_o change_n this_o be_v the_o great_a vanity_n of_o all_o creature_n that_o they_o be_v uncertain_a and_o do_v not_o long_o continue_v in_o one_o state_n this_o be_v the_o vanity_n of_o the_o world_n in_o general_n that_o the_o fashion_n of_o it_o pass_v away_o and_o of_o man_n in_o particular_a that_o he_o be_v liable_a to_o so_o many_o natural_a change_n by_o age_n and_o disease_n and_o death_n for_o which_o reason_n he_o be_v say_v by_o the_o psalmist_n to_o be_v in_o his_o best_a estate_n altogether_o vanity_n and_o that_o he_o be_v liable_a to_o so_o many_o moral_a change_n to_o be_v delude_v and_o deceive_v in_o his_o understanding_n and_o to_o alter_v his_o opinion_n so_o often_o to_o be_v so_o fickle_a in_o his_o will_n and_o to_o change_v so_o often_o his_o purpose_n and_o resolution_n according_a to_o the_o alteration_n or_o appearance_n of_o thing_n we_o attribute_v change_n and_o inconstancy_n to_o person_n of_o the_o weak_a age_n and_o understanding_n as_o child_n who_o be_v liable_a to_o be_v toss_v to_o and_o fro_o and_o carry_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v eph._n 4.14_o now_o if_o the_o divine_a nature_n be_v subject_a to_o change_v this_o will_v cast_v a_o universal_a cloud_n upon_o all_o the_o divine_a perfection_n and_o obscure_v all_o other_o excellency_n and_o make_v they_o like_o the_o flower_n of_o the_o field_n which_o how_o gay_a and_o glorious_a soever_o be_v fade_v and_o perish_v and_o the_o great_a the_o divine_a perfection_n be_v the_o great_a imperfection_n will_v mutability_n be_v for_o as_o the_o corruption_n of_o the_o best_a thing_n be_v the_o worst_a so_o the_o better_a any_o thing_n be_v so_o much_o the_o worse_o it_o will_v be_v to_o have_v it_o liable_a to_o corruption_n and_o change_n and_o as_o mutability_n in_o god_n will_v darken_v all_o his_o other_o perfection_n so_o will_v it_o take_v away_o the_o foundation_n and_o comfort_n of_o all_o religion_n the_o ground_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o hope_v and_o fear_v of_o our_o love_n and_o esteem_v of_o god_n will_v be_v quite_o take_v away_o we_o can_v have_v no_o great_a honour_n or_o esteem_n for_o a_o be_v that_o be_v fickle_a and_o inconstant_a if_o his_o power_n and_o justice_n be_v uncertain_a his_o threating_n will_v in_o a_o great_a measure_n lose_v their_o awe_n and_o force_n if_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n can_v fail_v no_o promise_n and_o declaration_n how_o gracious_a soever_o will_v be_v any_o security_n or_o firm_a ground_n of_o trust_n and_o confidence_n and_o this_o reason_v be_v not_o the_o result_n of_o divine_a revelation_n but_o clear_o found_v in_o the_o natural_a notion_n and_o suggestion_n of_o our_o mind_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o cite_v one_o or_o two_o testimony_n to_o this_o burpose_n of_o those_o who_o have_v no_o other_o guide_n but_o natural_a light_n plato_n in_o his_o phoedo_n inquire_v whether_o the_o most_o perfect_a that_o be_v god_n be_v always_o the_o same_o or_o sometime_o thus_o and_o sometime_o otherwise_o that_o be_v say_v he_o whether_o that_o which_o be_v equality_n and_o goodness_n and_o bounty_n itself_o receive_v any_o the_o least_o change_n at_o any_o time_n and_o be_v not_o constant_a and_o uniform_a and_o of_o itself_o always_o the_o same_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o be_v never_o in_o any_o wise_a upon_o any_o account_n subject_n to_o any_o change_n or_o alteration_n whatsoever_o to_o which_o he_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o he_o shall_v be_v the_o same_o and_o always_o alike_o and_o lib._n 2._o de_fw-fr repub._n where_o he_o lay_v down_o the_o fundamental_a law_n and_o constitutition_n of_o religion_n he_o mention_n these_o two_o which_o one_o will_v almost_o think_v he_o borrow_a from_o st._n james_n but_o that_o he_o live_v so_o long_o before_o he_o viz._n first_o that_o god_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o all_o good_a and_o and_o in_o no_o wise_a of_o any_o evil_n answerable_o to_o what_o our_o apostle_n here_o assert_n that_o god_n can_v be_v tempt_v with_o evil_a neither_o tempt_v he_o any_o man_n but_o that_o every_o good_a and_o perfect_a gift_n be_v from_o he_o second_o that_o god_n do_v not_o deceive_v we_o by_o make_v various_a representation_n of_o himself_o to_o we_o sometime_o in_o one_o form_n and_o sometime_o in_o another_o for_o he_o be_v unchangeable_a and_o always_o the_o same_o and_o can_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d pass_v out_o of_o his_o own_o idea_n or_o be_v any_o other_o than_o what_o he_o be_v which_o he_o further_o confirm_v by_o this_o excellent_a reason_v that_o which_o be_v the_o best_a and_o most_o perfect_a be_v be_v not_o liable_a to_o any_o alteration_n but_o such_o a_o be_v be_v god_n and_o therefore_o he_o can_v be_v change_v by_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v weak_a and_o less_o perfect_a than_o himself_o and_o he_o can_v will_v to_o change_v himself_o for_o if_o he_o shall_v it_o must_v either_o be_v for_o the_o better_a or_o for_o the_o worse_o it_o can_v be_v for_o the_o better_a for_o be_v already_o possess_v of_o all_o perfection_n there_o can_v be_v no_o accession_n of_o any_o to_o he_o by_o any_o change_n and_o certain_o there_o be_v no_o wise_a be_v as_o god_n be_v that_o will_v change_v for_o the_o worse_o and_o therefore_o he_o conclude_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v the_o goodly_a and_o best_a be_v that_o be_v possible_a he_o always_o continue_v simple_o the_o same_o seneca_n likewise_o speak_v of_o the_o immutability_n of_o god_n counsel_n l._n 6._o de_fw-fr benef._n statuerunt_fw-la say_v he_o quae_fw-la non_fw-la mutarent_fw-la neque_fw-la unquam_fw-la primi_fw-la consilii_fw-la deos_fw-la poenitet_fw-la the_o god_n make_v unchangeable_a decree_n and_o never_o repent_v they_o of_o their_o first_o counsel_n 2._o this_o will_v yet_o more_o clear_o appear_v from_o the_o divine_a revelation_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o tell_v we_o that_o god_n be_v unchangeable_a in_o his_o nature_n and_o in_o his_o perfection_n in_o all_o his_o decree_n and_o purpose_n and_o promise_v in_o his_o essence_n and_o be_v exod._n 3.14_o i_o be_o that_o i_o be_o this_o be_v his_o name_n whereby_o he_o make_v know_v himself_o to_o the_o comfort_n of_o his_o people_n and_o to_o the_o terror_n of_o the_o egyptian_n their_o oppressor_n psal_n 90.2_o from_o everlasting_a to_o everlasting_a thou_o be_v god_n psal_n 102.27_o thou_o be_v
our_o affair_n and_o concernment_n after_o we_o have_v use_v our_o best_a endeavour_n let_v we_o sit_v down_o and_o be_v satisfy_v and_o refer_v the_o rest_n to_o god_n who_o providence_n govern_v the_o world_n and_o take_v care_n of_o all_o our_o interest_n and_o of_o the_o interest_n of_o his_o church_n and_o religion_n when_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v in_o great_a danger_n we_o can_v but_o be_v convince_v that_o this_o be_v very_o reasonable_a to_o leave_v the_o management_n of_o thing_n to_o he_o who_o make_v they_o and_o therefore_o understand_v best_o how_o to_o order_v they_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n be_v a_o very_a curious_a and_o complicate_v thing_n and_o not_o to_o be_v tamper_v with_o by_o every_o unskilful_a hand_n and_o therefore_o as_o a_o unskilful_a man_n after_o he_o have_v tamper_v a_o great_a while_n with_o a_o watch_n think_v to_o bring_v it_o into_o better_a order_n and_o be_v at_o last_o convince_v that_o he_o can_v do_v no_o good_a upon_o it_o carry_v it_o to_o he_o that_o make_v it_o to_o mend_v it_o and_o put_v it_o into_o order_n so_o must_v we_o do_v after_o all_o our_o care_n and_o anxiety_n about_o our_o own_o private_a concernment_n or_o the_o public_a state_n of_o thing_n we_o must_v give_v over_o govern_v the_o world_n as_o a_o business_n past_o our_o skill_n as_o a_o province_n too_o hard_o and_o a_o knowledge_n too_o wonderful_a for_o we_o and_o leave_v it_o to_o he_o who_o make_v the_o world_n to_o govern_v it_o and_o take_v care_n of_o it_o and_o if_o we_o be_v not_o thus_o affect_v and_o dispose_a we_o do_v not_o believe_v the_o providence_n of_o god_n whatever_o profession_n we_o make_v of_o it_o if_o we_o do_v it_o will_v have_v a_o influence_n upon_o our_o mind_n to_o free_v we_o from_o anxious_a care_n and_o discontent_n be_v we_o firm_o persuade_v of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o the_o divine_a providence_n we_o shall_v confident_o rely_v upon_o it_o and_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n advice_n here_o in_o the_o text_n cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o he_o because_o he_o care_v for_o we_o sermon_n ix_o vi_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o redemption_n of_o mankind_n 1_o cor._n i._n 24_o christ_n the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n i_o have_v in_o the_o ordinary_a course_n of_o my_o preach_v be_v treat_v of_o the_o attribute_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n more_o particular_o those_o which_o relate_v to_o the_o divine_a understanding_n the_o knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n the_o first_o of_o these_o i_o have_v finish_v and_o make_v some_o progress_n in_o the_o second_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n which_o i_o have_v speak_v to_o in_o general_a and_o have_v propound_v more_o particular_o to_o consider_v those_o famous_a instance_n and_o argument_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n in_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n the_o government_n of_o it_o and_o the_o redemption_n of_o mankind_n by_o jesus_n christ_n the_o two_o first_o of_o these_o i_o have_v speak_v to_o namely_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n which_o appear_v in_o the_o creation_n and_o government_n of_o the_o world_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o iii_o instance_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n the_o redemption_n of_o mankind_n by_o jesus_n christ_n which_o i_o shall_v by_o god_n assistance_n speak_v to_o from_o these_o word_n christ_n the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n the_o apostle_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o epistle_n upon_o occasion_n of_o his_o mention_v the_o division_n and_o party_n that_o be_v among_o the_o corinthian_n where_o one_o say_v i_o be_o of_o paul_n another_o i_o be_o of_o apollo_n ask_v they_o whether_o paul_n be_v crucify_v for_o they_o or_o whether_o they_o be_v baptize_v into_o the_o name_n of_o paul_n to_o convince_v they_o that_o they_o can_v not_o pretend_v this_o that_o they_o be_v baptise_a into_o his_o name_n he_o tell_v they_o at_o the_o 14_o and_o 15_o the_o verse_n that_o he_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o baptize_v any_o of_o they_o except_z two_o or_o three_o so_o far_o be_v he_o from_o have_v baptise_a they_o into_o his_o own_o name_n and_o at_o the_o 17_o the_o verse_n he_o say_v that_o his_o work_n his_o principal_a work_n be_v to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n which_o he_o have_v do_v not_o with_o humane_a eloquence_n not_o in_o wisdom_n of_o word_n but_o with_o great_a plainness_n and_o simplicity_n lest_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v make_v of_o none_o effect_n lest_o if_o he_o shall_v have_v use_v any_o artifice_n the_o gospel_n shall_v have_v be_v less_o powerful_a and_o indeed_o his_o preach_a be_v affect_o plain_a and_o therefore_o the_o gospel_n do_v seem_v to_o very_o many_o to_o be_v a_o foolish_a and_o ridiculous_a thing_n the_o story_n which_o they_o tell_v of_o christ_n crucify_a be_v to_o the_o jew_n a_o stumble_a block_n and_o to_o the_o greek_n foolishness_n the_o jew_n who_o expect_v another_o kind_n of_o messiah_n that_o shall_v come_v in_o great_a pomp_n and_o glory_n to_o be_v a_o mighty_a temporal_a prince_n they_o be_v angry_a at_o the_o story_n of_o a_o crucify_a christ_n the_o greek_n the_o philosopher_n who_o expect_v some_o curious_a theory_n adorn_v with_o eloquence_n and_o deliver_v and_o lay_v down_o according_a to_o the_o exact_a rule_n of_o art_n they_o deride_v this_o plain_a and_o simple_a relation_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o gospel_n but_o though_o this_o design_n of_o the_o gospel_n appear_v silly_a and_o foolish_a to_o rash_a and_o inconsiderate_a and_o prejudice_v mind_n yet_o to_o they_o that_o be_v call_v to_o they_o that_o do_v believe_v both_o jew_n and_o gentile_n christ_n the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o way_n of_o our_o redemption_n by_o jesus_n christ_n which_o the_o apostle_n preach_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n a_o eminent_a instance_n of_o it_o so_o that_o the_o redemption_n of_o man_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v a_o design_n of_o admirable_a wisdom_n this_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o confirm_v to_o you_o i._o by_o general_a testimony_n of_o scripture_n and_o ii_o by_o a_o more_o particular_a enquiry_n into_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o design_n and_o the_o mean_n how_o it_o be_v accomplish_v i._o by_o testimony_n from_o scripture_n you_o know_v i_o have_v all_o along_o in_o my_o discourse_n of_o the_o attribute_n of_o god_n use_v this_o method_n of_o prove_v they_o from_o the_o dictate_v of_o natural_a light_n and_o the_o revelation_n of_o scripture_n but_o now_o i_o must_v forsake_v my_o wont_a method_n for_o here_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n leave_v i_o the_o wisdom_n of_o creation_n be_v manifest_a in_o the_o thing_n which_o be_v make_v the_o heaven_n declare_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n wisdom_n and_o the_o firmament_n show_v his_o handiwork_n the_o work_n of_o god_n do_v preach_v and_o set_v forth_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o creator_n but_o the_o sun_n moon_n and_o star_n do_v not_o preach_v the_o gospel_n the_o wisdom_n of_o redemption_n be_v wisdom_n in_o a_o mystery_n hide_a wisdom_n which_o none_o of_o the_o prince_n or_o philosopher_n of_o this_o world_n know_v the_o sharp_a wit_n and_o the_o high_a and_o most_o raise_a understanding_n among_o the_o heathen_n can_v say_v nothing_o of_o this_o here_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o prudent_a be_v pose_v and_o we_o may_v make_v the_o apostle_n challenge_v v_o 20._o of_o this_o chapter_n where_o be_v the_o wise_a where_o be_v the_o disputer_n of_o this_o world_n there_o be_v no_o natural_a light_n discover_v christ_n the_o wise_a man_n can_v find_v he_o out_o unless_o a_o star_n be_v create_v on_o purpose_n to_o lead_v and_o direct_v to_o he_o therefore_o in_o this_o i_o shall_v only_o depend_v upon_o divine_a revelation_n 1_o cor._n 2.7_o 8._o the_o gospel_n be_v call_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o a_o mystery_n even_o the_o hide_a wisdom_n which_o god_n ordain_v before_o the_o world_n unto_o our_o glory_n which_o none_o of_o the_o prince_n of_o this_o world_n know_v eph._n 1.7_o 8._o in_o who_o we_o have_v redemption_n through_o his_o blood_n the_o forgiveness_n of_o sin_n according_a to_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n wherein_o he_o have_v abound_v towards_o we_o in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o prudence_n eph._n 3.10_o 11._o the_o manifold_a wisdom_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o eternal_a purpose_n which_o he_o purpose_v in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n this_o work_n of_o our_o redemption_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v so_o various_a and_o admirable_a that_o it_o be_v not_o below_o the_o angel_n to_o know_v and_o understand_v it_o to_o the_o intent_n that_o unto_o principality_n and_o power_n in_o heavenly_a place_n may_v be_v know_v the_o manifold_a wisdom_n of_o god_n ii_o by_o inquire_v more_o particular_o into_o the_o nature_n
be_v utter_o impossible_a now_o these_o be_v the_o most_o easy_a and_o intelligible_a perfection_n of_o god_n by_o which_o he_o be_v say_v in_o scripture_n to_o declare_v his_o name_n that_o be_v to_o make_v himself_o know_v to_o we_o we_o shall_v govern_v all_o our_o reason_n about_o god_n as_o concern_v his_o decree_n and_o his_o concurrence_n with_o the_o free_a action_n of_o man_n and_o his_o particular_a providence_n which_o be_v thing_n more_o dark_a and_o obscure_a by_o what_o be_v more_o clear_a and_o we_o shall_v find_v in_o scripture_n that_o in_o all_o these_o point_n holy_a man_n do_v constant_o appeal_v to_o these_o unquestionable_a and_o intelligible_a perfection_n of_o god_n will_v thou_o destroy_v the_o righteous_a with_o the_o wicked_a say_v abraham_n that_o be_v far_o from_o thou_o shall_v not_o the_o judge_n of_o all_o the_o world_n do_v right_a we_o may_v be_v mistake_v but_o god_n certain_o know_v who_o be_v wicked_a and_o who_o be_v righteous_a and_o he_o know_v how_o to_o punish_v the_o wicked_a and_o save_v the_o righteous_a but_o we_o can_v be_v mistake_v in_o this_o principle_n that_o the_o judge_n of_o all_o the_o world_n will_v do_v right_a thus_o moses_n satisfy_v himself_o and_o other_o concern_v the_o particular_a providence_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n deut._n 32.3_o 4._o i_o will_v publish_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o his_o way_n be_v judgement_n a_o god_n of_o truth_n and_o without_o iniquity_n just_a and_o right_o be_v he._n this_o we_o certain_o know_v of_o god_n so_o st._n paul_n rom._n 2.2_o thou_o be_v inexcusable_a o_o man_n whatsoever_o excuse_v man_n may_v pretend_v for_o their_o fault_n he_o lay_v down_o this_o for_o a_o principle_n we_o be_v sure_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n be_v according_a to_o truth_n second_o let_v we_o always_o consider_v the_o perfection_n of_o god_n in_o conjunction_n and_o so_o as_o to_o reconcile_v they_o with_o one_o another_o do_v not_o consider_v god_n as_o mere_a power_n and_o sovereignty_n as_o mere_a mercy_n and_o goodness_n as_o mere_a justice_n and_o severity_n but_o as_o all_o these_o together_o and_o in_o such_o a_o measure_n and_o degree_n as_o may_v make_v they_o consistent_a with_o one_o another_o the_o great_a mistake_n in_o religion_n be_v certain_o spring_v from_o this_o root_n from_o separate_v the_o perfection_n of_o god_n and_o consider_v they_o single_o and_o frame_v such_o wide_a and_o large_a notion_n of_o one_o as_o to_o exclude_v another_o whereas_o the_o perfection_n of_o god_n agree_v together_o and_o that_o be_v not_o a_o divine_a perfection_n which_o contradict_v any_o other_o perfection_n among_o man_n indeed_o a_o eminent_a degree_n of_o any_o one_o excellency_n do_v usual_o shut_v out_o some_o other_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v observe_v that_o power_n and_o moderation_n love_n and_o discretion_n do_v not_o often_o meet_v together_o that_o a_o great_a memory_n and_o a_o small_a judgement_n a_o good_a wit_n and_o a_o ill_a nature_n be_v many_o time_n find_v in_o conjunction_n but_o in_o infinite_a perfection_n all_o perfection_n do_v eminent_o meet_v and_o consist_v together_o and_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a that_o one_o excellency_n shall_v be_v raise_v upon_o the_o ruin_n of_o another_o and_o if_o this_o have_v be_v well_o consider_v man_n will_v not_o by_o be_v too_o intent_n upon_o god_n sovereignty_n with_o neglect_n of_o his_o other_o perfection_n have_v speak_v those_o hard_a thing_n about_o predestination_n for_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o god_n do_v by_o no_o mean_n set_v he_o above_o the_o eternal_a law_n of_o goodness_n and_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o if_o this_o be_v consider_v man_n will_v not_o by_o pore_v upon_o the_o justice_n and_o severity_n of_o god_n be_v so_o swallow_v up_o in_o despair_n for_o god_n be_v not_o so_o severe_a but_o he_o be_v merciful_a to_o the_o penitent_a and_o have_v leave_v a_o retreat_n for_o the_o return_a sinner_n if_o this_o be_v well_o consider_v it_o will_v check_v the_o presumption_n of_o those_o who_o encourage_v themselves_o in_o sin_n by_o fancy_v to_o themselves_o a_o god_n all_o of_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n and_o because_o sentence_v against_o a_o evil_a work_n be_v not_o speedy_o execute_v therefore_o their_o heart_n be_v full_o set_v in_o they_o to_o do_v evil_a for_o it_o be_v not_o goodness_n and_o mercy_n final_o to_o bear_v with_o and_o forgive_v obstinate_a offender_n but_o want_v of_o prudence_n and_o good_a government_n three_o among_o different_a opinion_n concern_v god_n as_o there_o always_o have_v be_v and_o will_v be_v in_o the_o world_n choose_v those_o which_o be_v far_a from_o extremity_n because_o truth_n as_o well_o as_o virtue_n usual_o lie_v between_o the_o extreme_n and_o here_o i_o will_v instance_n in_o that_o controversy_n which_o have_v much_o disquiet_v the_o church_n almost_o in_o all_o age_n concern_v the_o decree_n of_o god_n about_o which_o there_o be_v two_o extreme_n the_o one_o that_o god_n peremptory_o decree_v the_o final_a condition_n of_o every_o particular_a person_n that_o be_v their_o everlasting_a happiness_n or_o misery_n without_o any_o regard_n or_o consideration_n of_o the_o good_a or_o bad_a action_n of_o men._n the_o other_o that_o god_n decree_v nothing_o concern_v any_o particular_a person_n but_o only_o in_o general_a that_o man_n find_v under_o such_o and_o such_o qualification_n shall_v be_v happy_a or_o miserable_a and_o put_v it_o into_o their_o own_o power_n to_o qualify_v themselves_o now_o he_o that_o be_v doubtful_a in_o this_o matter_n as_o every_o man_n must_v be_v that_o understand_v the_o difficulty_n on_o both_o side_n have_v best_o take_v up_o in_o the_o middle_a opinion_n that_o god_n decree_v the_o final_a condition_n of_o particular_a person_n with_o respect_n to_o certain_a qualification_n which_o speak_v absolute_o be_v not_o in_o every_o man_n power_n but_o yet_o under_o the_o influence_n of_o god_n grace_n which_o be_v never_o want_v to_o the_o sincere_a endeavour_n of_o man_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o our_o power_n in_o the_o same_o sense_n as_o st._n paul_n say_v i_o be_o able_a to_o do_v all_o thing_n through_o christ_n strengthen_v i_o for_o beside_o that_o this_o in_o all_o probability_n be_v the_o truth_n there_o will_v be_v this_o advantage_n in_o it_o that_o he_o that_o stand_v in_o the_o middle_n be_v like_a to_o be_v more_o moderate_a towards_o the_o dissenter_n on_o both_o side_n than_o either_o of_o they_o will_v be_v to_o one_o another_o because_o the_o middle_n be_v not_o so_o far_o from_o either_o extreme_a as_o the_o extreme_n be_v from_o one_o another_o at_o the_o worst_a he_o stand_v fair_a for_o a_o impartial_a enquiry_n after_o truth_n and_o when_o he_o have_v satisfy_v himself_o where_o the_o truth_n lie_v he_o may_v more_o silent_o pass_v over_o to_o it_o without_o any_o great_a imputation_n of_o inconstancy_n which_o can_v but_o be_v remarkable_a in_o he_o who_o pass_v from_o one_o extreme_a to_o another_o four_o and_o last_o entertain_v no_o opinion_n concern_v god_n that_o do_v evident_o contradict_v the_o practice_n of_o religion_n and_o a_o good_a life_n though_o never_o so_o specious_a and_o subtle_a argument_n may_v be_v use_v to_o persuade_v it_o truth_n be_v most_o easy_o see_v and_o discern_v in_o those_o reason_n and_o opinion_n which_o tend_v to_o practice_n because_o the_o absurdity_n and_o inconvenience_n of_o they_o be_v soon_o discover_v whereas_o we_o can_v so_o certain_o find_v out_o the_o truth_n or_o falsehood_n of_o those_o opinion_n which_o speculative_a man_n devise_v in_o their_o study_n without_o any_o consideration_n whether_o they_o serve_v any_o real_a purpose_n of_o life_n or_o not_o man_n indeed_o be_v very_o apt_a to_o form_v those_o notion_n which_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o common_a sense_n and_o use_v because_o more_o pain_n and_o wit_n be_v require_v to_o make_v they_o plausible_a but_o there_o need_v no_o other_o argument_n to_o make_v a_o wise_a man_n despise_v they_o than_o that_o they_o be_v unprofitable_a and_o signify_v nothing_o to_o our_o practice_n and_o to_o make_v man_n true_o better_a this_o be_v universal_o true_a in_o all_o kind_n of_o knowledge_n but_o most_o considerable_a in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n and_o religion_n because_o that_o knowledge_n be_v of_o the_o great_a consideration_n we_o need_v not_o scruple_n to_o admit_v some_o thing_n not_o so_o evident_a to_o natural_a reason_n if_o we_o be_v satisfy_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o they_o from_o a_o high_a and_o more_o cogent_a reason_n as_o that_o god_n have_v reveal_v it_o and_o say_v it_o this_o general_a reason_n may_v persuade_v we_o of_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v above_o and_o beyond_o natural_a reason_n but_o we_o may_v not_o admit_v any_o thing_n for_o a_o divine_a revelation_n which_o evident_o contradict_v and_o weaken_v the_o practice_n of_o
our_o lazy_a complaint_n that_o our_o duty_n be_v set_v so_o high_a that_o the_o endeavour_n of_o our_o whole_a life_n can_v reach_v it_o when_o yet_o we_o have_v hardly_o make_v one_o step_n towards_o it_o and_o be_v so_o remiss_a and_o unconcern_v about_o it_o as_o if_o we_o can_v do_v it_o at_o any_o time_n with_o the_o great_a ease_n and_o at_o a_o hour_n warning_n before_o we_o leave_v the_o world_n can_v fulfil_v this_o precept_n of_o our_o lord_n of_o be_v perfect_a as_o our_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a and_o yet_o let_v i_o tell_v you_o so_o far_o as_o any_o of_o we_o be_v from_o resemble_v our_o heavenly_a father_n in_o some_o good_a degree_n and_o measure_n so_o far_o be_v we_o distant_a from_o heaven_n and_o the_o temper_n of_o the_o bless_a so_o far_o be_v we_o utter_o unqualify_v for_o the_o blissful_a sight_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n for_o unless_o we_o be_v first_o like_o he_o we_o can_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v only_o the_o pure_a in_o heart_n shall_v see_v god_n and_o therefore_o every_o man_n that_o have_v this_o hope_n in_o he_o shall_v purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a and_o thus_o i_o have_v as_o brief_o as_o i_o can_v dispatch_v the_o four_o thing_n i_o propound_v for_o the_o explication_n of_o this_o text_n namely_o how_o we_o be_v to_o conceive_v of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n and_o to_o give_v some_o rule_n to_o regulate_v and_o govern_v our_o opinion_n concern_v the_o attribute_n and_o perfection_n of_o god_n to_o explain_v the_o extent_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o vindicate_v the_o possibility_n of_o it_o all_o that_o now_o remain_v be_v to_o draw_v some_o useful_a inference_n from_o this_o discourse_n which_o i_o have_v make_v and_o they_o shall_v be_v these_o two_o i._o that_o the_o strong_a and_o sure_a reason_n in_o religion_n be_v ground_v upon_o the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n ii_o that_o the_o true_a and_o most_o substantial_a practice_n of_o religion_n consist_v in_o the_o imitation_n of_o god_n i._o that_o the_o strong_a and_o sure_a reason_n in_o religion_n be_v ground_v upon_o the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n so_o that_o even_o divine_a revelation_n itself_o do_v suppose_v these_o for_o its_o foundation_n and_o can_v signify_v nothing_o to_o we_o unless_o these_o be_v first_o know_v and_o believe_v unless_o we_o be_v first_o persuade_v of_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o his_o particular_a care_n of_o mankind_n why_o shall_v we_o believe_v that_o he_o will_v make_v any_o revelation_n of_o himself_o to_o man_n unless_o it_o be_v natural_o know_v to_o we_o that_o god_n be_v true_a what_o foundation_n be_v there_o for_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o word_n and_o what_o signify_v the_o law_n and_o promise_n of_o god_n unless_o natural_a light_n do_v first_o assure_v we_o of_o his_o sovereign_a authority_n and_o faithfulness_n so_o that_o the_o principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o that_o which_o be_v reveal_v and_o therefore_o in_o reason_n nothing_o can_v be_v admit_v to_o be_v a_o revelation_n from_o god_n which_o plain_o contradict_v his_o essential_a perfection_n and_o consequent_o if_o any_o pretend_v divine_a revelation_n for_o this_o doctrine_n that_o god_n have_v from_o all_o eternity_n absolute_o decree_v the_o eternal_a ruin_n of_o the_o great_a part_n of_o mankind_n without_o any_o respect_n to_o the_o sin_n and_o demerit_n of_o man_n i_o be_o as_o certain_a that_o this_o doctrine_n can_v be_v of_o god_n as_o i_o be_o sure_a that_o god_n be_v good_a and_o just_a because_o this_o grate_n upon_o the_o notion_n that_o mankind_n have_v of_o goodness_n and_o justice_n this_o be_v that_o which_o no_o good_a man_n will_v do_v and_o therefore_o can_v be_v believe_v of_o infinite_a goodness_n and_o therefore_o if_o a_o apostle_n or_o angel_n from_o heaven_n teach_v any_o doctrine_n which_o plain_o overthrow_v the_o goodness_n and_o justice_n of_o god_n let_v he_o be_v accurse_v for_o every_o man_n have_v great_a assurance_n that_o god_n be_v good_a and_o just_a than_o he_o can_v have_v of_o any_o subtle_a speculation_n about_o predestination_n and_o the_o decree_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o same_o reason_n i_o can_v believe_v upon_o the_o pretend_a authority_n or_o infallibility_n of_o any_o man_n or_o church_n in_o the_o world_n that_o god_n will_v not_o have_v man_n understand_v their_o public_a prayer_n and_o the_o lesson_n of_o scripture_n which_o be_v read_v to_o they_o a_o lesson_n not_o to_o be_v understand_v be_v nonsense_n a_o lesson_n be_v something_o to_o be_v learn_v which_o how_o it_o can_v be_v without_o be_v understand_v be_v hard_o to_o comprehend_v and_o as_o little_o can_v i_o believe_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o person_n or_o church_n whatsoever_o that_o god_n shall_v reveal_v his_o will_n to_o man_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n with_o a_o design_n to_o have_v it_o hide_v and_o lock_v up_o from_o the_o generality_n of_o mankind_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n and_o much_o less_o can_v i_o believe_v which_o yet_o be_v the_o express_a doctrine_n of_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n that_o the_o save_a efficacy_n of_o the_o sacrament_n depend_v upon_o the_o intention_n of_o the_o priest_n which_o be_v to_o say_v that_o though_o people_n believe_v and_o live_v never_o so_o well_o they_o may_v be_v damn_v by_o sholes_n and_o whole_a parish_n together_o at_o the_o pleasure_n of_o the_o priest_n and_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o because_o he_o be_v so_o wicked_a as_o not_o to_o intend_v to_o save_v they_o can_v any_o man_n believe_v this_o that_o have_v any_o tolerable_a notion_n of_o god_n goodness_n may_v we_o not_o in_o this_o case_n appeal_v as_o abraham_n do_v to_o the_o goodness_n and_o justice_n of_o god_n and_o expostulate_v with_o great_a reason_n than_o he_o do_v much_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n will_v thou_o destroy_v the_o righteous_a for_o the_o wicked_a that_o be_v far_o from_o thou_o to_o do_v after_o this_o manner_n to_o damn_v the_o righteous_a for_o the_o wicked_a and_o that_o righteous_a people_n shall_v lie_v at_o the_o mercy_n of_o a_o wicked_a priest_n to_o be_v damn_v or_o save_v at_o his_o pleasure_n that_o be_v far_o from_o thou_o shall_v not_o the_o judge_n of_o all_o the_o earth_n do_v right_a and_o can_v there_o be_v a_o great_a affront_n to_o the_o goodness_n and_o justice_n of_o god_n than_o to_o imagine_v he_o shall_v deal_v with_o man_n after_o this_o manner_n if_o this_o be_v to_o do_v right_a there_o be_v no_o possibility_n of_o do_v wrong_n and_o to_o give_v but_o one_o instance_n more_o i_o can_v never_o believe_v upon_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o man_n or_o church_n whatsoever_o that_o our_o saviour_n in_o the_o celebration_n of_o his_o last_o supper_n do_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n give_v away_o his_o own_o natural_a body_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o disciple_n and_o give_v his_o blood_n shed_v before_o it_o be_v shed_v that_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o christianity_n shall_v main_o rely_v upon_o the_o evidence_n of_o miracle_n the_o assurance_n of_o which_o depend_v upon_o the_o certainty_n of_o sense_n and_o yet_o that_o a_o essential_a part_n of_o that_o doctrine_n shall_v overthrow_v the_o certainty_n of_o sense_n i_o can_v never_o while_o i_o live_v believe_v these_o two_o thing_n that_o the_o last_o thing_n our_o saviour_n do_v before_o his_o death_n shall_v be_v to_o teach_v his_o disciple_n not_o to_o believe_v their_o own_o sense_n as_o he_o must_v do_v if_o he_o teach_v they_o transubstantiation_n and_o that_o the_o very_o first_o thing_n he_o do_v after_o he_o be_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a shall_v be_v to_o teach_v they_o the_o quite_o contrary_a by_o appeal_n to_o the_o certainty_n of_o sense_n for_o the_o proof_n of_o his_o resurrection_n for_o when_o they_o doubt_v of_o his_o resurrection_n luke_n 24.38_o he_o say_v unto_o they_o why_o be_v you_o trouble_v and_o why_o do_v thought_n arise_v in_o your_o heart_n behold_v my_o hand_n and_o my_o foot_n that_o it_o be_v i_o myself_o handle_v i_o and_o see_v for_o a_o spirit_n have_v not_o flesh_n and_o bone_n as_o you_o see_v i_o have_v if_o this_o be_v a_o good_a argument_n that_o it_o be_v a_o real_a body_n which_o they_o see_v because_o they_o see_v and_o feel_v flesh_n and_o bone_n be_v it_o not_o as_o good_a a_o argument_n on_o the_o other_o side_n that_o what_o they_o see_v in_o the_o sacrament_n be_v not_o his_o real_a and_o natural_a body_n because_o they_o can_v neither_o see_v nor_o handle_v flesh_n and_o bone_n so_o that_o i_o can_v believe_v transubstantiation_n unless_o i_o can_v believe_v that_o truth_n itself_o can_v contradict_v and_o destroy_v itself_o you_o see_v of_o what_o use_v it_o be_v to_o have_v right_a and_o steady_a apprehension_n of_o the_o
divine_a perfection_n that_o these_o be_v lay_v for_o a_o foundation_n we_o may_v upon_o all_o occasion_n have_v recourse_n to_o they_o and_o govern_v our_o opinion_n and_o reason_n in_o religion_n about_o all_o doubtful_a matter_n by_o such_o principle_n as_o be_v clear_a and_o unquestionable_a the_o ii_o inference_n be_v that_o the_o true_a and_o most_o substantial_a practice_n of_o religion_n consist_v in_o the_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n especial_o the_o moral_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n which_o the_o scripture_n be_v wont_a to_o comprehend_v under_o the_o name_n of_o holiness_n and_o such_o be_v the_o goodness_n and_o mercy_n and_o patience_n of_o god_n his_o justice_n and_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n to_o imitate_v god_n in_o these_o be_v true_a religion_n or_o as_o st._n james_n express_v it_o pure_a religion_n and_o undefiled_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d without_o any_o flaw_n or_o blemish_n allude_v to_o precious_a stone_n the_o great_a commendation_n of_o which_o be_v to_o be_v clear_a and_o without_o flaw_n religio_fw-la est_fw-la imitari_fw-la quem_fw-la colis_fw-la this_o be_v religion_n to_o imitate_v he_o who_o we_o worship_v this_o the_o heathen_n by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n do_v discover_v to_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o best_a worship_n of_o the_o deity_n to_o be_v like_o god_n pythagoras_n be_v wont_a to_o say_v that_o we_o honour_n god_n most_o when_o we_o be_v most_o like_o he_o in_o the_o temper_n and_o disposition_n of_o our_o mind_n and_o plato_n to_o the_o same_o purpose_n that_o the_o height_n and_o perfection_n of_o goodness_n be_v to_o resemble_v god_n as_o near_o as_o be_v possible_a and_o that_o we_o resemble_v god_n in_o be_v just_a and_o holy_a and_o wise_a so_o likewise_o hierocles_n that_o a_o good_a man_n imitate_v god_n in_o the_o measure_n of_o love_n and_o friendship_n who_o hate_v no_o man_n and_o extend_v his_o benignity_n to_o all_o mankind_n plutarch_n have_v a_o excellent_a discourse_n about_o the_o patience_n of_o god_n towards_o sinner_n and_o give_v this_o as_o one_o reason_n why_o god_n do_v not_o present_o punish_v offender_n that_o he_o may_v give_v a_o example_n to_o we_o of_o gentleness_n and_o patience_n and_o check_v the_o fury_n and_o violence_n of_o man_n in_o revenge_a injury_n upon_o one_o another_o which_o nothing_o will_v do_v more_o effectual_o than_o to_o consider_v that_o gentleness_n and_o forbearance_n be_v a_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n and_o then_o he_o cite_v a_o excellent_a say_n of_o plato_n that_o god_n manifest_v himself_o and_o display_v his_o perfection_n in_o the_o world_n for_o our_o imitation_n true_a virtue_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n for_o there_o be_v no_o great_a benefit_n man_n can_v receive_v from_o god_n hand_n than_o to_o become_v virtuous_a by_o the_o imitation_n and_o pursuit_n of_o those_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n which_o be_v in_o god_n seneca_n likewise_o have_v many_o passage_n to_o this_o purpose_n inter_fw-la viros_fw-la bonos_fw-es ac_fw-la deum_fw-la amicitia_fw-la est_fw-la imo_fw-la etiam_fw-la necessitudo_fw-la &_o similitudo_fw-la between_o god_n and_o good_a man_n there_o be_v a_o friendship_n yea_o and_o a_o intimacy_n and_o likeness_n and_o that_o a_o virtuous_a man_n be_v discipulus_fw-la aemulatorque_fw-la &_o vera_fw-la progeny_n dei_fw-la a_o disciple_n and_o imitator_n and_o the_o very_a genuine_a offspring_n of_o god_n so_o that_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o mankind_n have_v always_o place_v the_o perfection_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a excellency_n and_o perfection_n and_o this_o be_v very_o agreeable_a to_o the_o language_n and_o sense_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o every_o where_o make_v the_o practice_n of_o religion_n to_o consist_v in_o our_o conformity_n to_o god_n and_o the_o law_n which_o he_o have_v give_v we_o which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o transcript_n of_o his_o nature_n the_o great_a business_n of_o religion_n be_v to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n our_o sanctification_n and_o our_o sanctification_n be_v our_o conformity_n to_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n and_o this_o be_v the_o scope_n of_o the_o general_a exhortation_n of_o scripture_n to_o persuade_v we_o to_o holiness_n that_o be_v to_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o moral_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o have_v therefore_o these_o promise_n dear_o belove_v let_v we_o cleanse_v ourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n of_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o perfect_a holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n 1_o pet._n 1.15_o 16._o as_o he_o which_o have_v call_v you_o be_v holy_a so_o be_v you_o holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n because_o it_o be_v write_v be_v you_o holy_a for_o i_o be_o holy_a 2_o pet._n 1.3_o 4._o speak_v of_o the_o christian_a religion_n which_o he_o call_v the_o knowledge_n of_o he_o who_o have_v call_v we_o to_o glory_n and_o virtue_n whereby_o also_o say_v he_o be_v give_v unto_o we_o exceed_v great_a and_o precious_a promise_n that_o by_o these_o we_o may_v be_v partaker_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n have_v escape_v the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n through_o lust_n so_o that_o the_o holiness_n the_o gospel_n design_n to_o bring_v we_o to_o be_v a_o participation_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n which_o we_o can_v no_o otherwise_o partake_v of_o but_o by_o a_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n this_o be_v that_o which_o the_o scripture_n express_v to_o we_o by_o the_o term_n of_o regeneration_n the_o new_a man_n and_o the_o new_a creature_n and_o therefore_o those_o who_o be_v convert_v from_o a_o wicked_a and_o sinful_a state_n and_o reclaim_v to_o goodness_n be_v say_v to_o put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o the_o holiness_n of_o truth_n ephes_n 4.23_o to_o be_v renew_v after_o the_o image_n of_o he_o that_o create_v we_o coloss_n 3.10_o this_o be_v to_o be_v the_o son_n and_o child_n of_o god_n to_o imitate_v and_o resemble_v god_n in_o our_o disposition_n and_o manner_n ephes_n 5.1_o be_v you_o therefore_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d imitator_n of_o god_n as_o dear_a child_n philip._n 2.15_o that_o you_o may_v be_v blameless_a and_o sincere_a the_o son_n of_o god_n without_o rebuke_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o crooked_a and_o perverse_a nation_n 1_o john_n 3.10_o in_o this_o the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_a and_o the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n whosoever_o do_v not_o righteousness_n be_v not_o of_o god_n there_o have_v be_v great_a inquiry_n concern_v the_o mark_n of_o a_o child_n of_o god_n this_o be_v the_o true_a character_n and_o that_o which_o in_o effect_n comprehend_v all_o other_o our_o imitation_n and_o resemblance_n of_o god_n in_o those_o perfection_n wherein_o he_o be_v set_v forth_o for_o a_o pattern_n to_o we_o and_o in_o this_o main_o consist_v the_o practice_n both_o of_o natural_a religion_n and_o of_o true_a christianity_n but_o do_v not_o religion_n consist_v very_o much_o in_o the_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o piety_n and_o devotion_n in_o constant_a and_o frequent_a prayer_n to_o god_n and_o in_o the_o celebration_n of_o his_o goodness_n by_o praise_n and_o thanksgiving_n in_o read_v and_o hear_v and_o meditate_v upon_o god_n word_n in_o fast_v and_o abstinence_n and_o keep_v our_o body_n in_o subjection_n to_o our_o spirit_n and_o in_o frequent_a receive_n of_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n to_o this_o i_o answer_v that_o religion_n do_v consist_v very_o much_o in_o the_o due_a performance_n of_o these_o duty_n and_o they_o be_v unquestionable_a and_o necessary_a part_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o mean_v appoint_v by_o god_n for_o the_o beget_n and_o increase_v in_o we_o such_o disposition_n of_o mind_n as_o render_v we_o most_o like_a to_o god_n and_o for_o the_o production_n of_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o goodness_n and_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n in_o our_o life_n but_o than_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o these_o exercise_n of_o piety_n and_o devotion_n be_v but_o the_o mean_n of_o religion_n and_o not_o the_o ultimate_a end_n and_o design_n of_o it_o all_o these_o do_v but_o serve_v to_o bring_v we_o to_o a_o near_a resemblance_n of_o god_n and_o where_o they_o fail_v of_o this_o end_n and_o be_v perform_v for_o their_o own_o sake_n only_o and_o we_o rest_v in_o they_o without_o aim_v at_o any_o thing_n far_o they_o lose_v their_o nature_n because_o they_o be_v not_o use_v as_o mean_n but_o rest_v in_o as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o end_n of_o religion_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v there_o be_v many_o which_o fall_v into_o this_o fatal_a mistake_n about_o religion_n and_o think_v that_o if_o
they_o do_v but_o serve_v god_n in_o their_o family_n and_o go_v to_o church_n and_o behave_v themselves_o there_o with_o devotion_n and_o reverence_n and_o at_o certain_a season_n receive_v the_o sacrament_n they_o be_v true_o religious_a and_o very_o good_a christian_n when_o all_o this_o while_n they_o take_v no_o care_n to_o improve_v themselves_o in_o real_a goodness_n by_o a_o inward_a conformity_n of_o their_o mind_n to_o god_n and_o the_o real_a reformation_n and_o amendment_n of_o their_o life_n by_o mortify_v their_o lust_n and_o subdue_a their_o appetite_n and_o passion_n to_o the_o law_n of_o reason_n and_o religion_n by_o put_v on_o as_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n bowel_n of_o kindness_n by_o be_v true_a and_o faithful_a righteous_a and_o just_a patient_a and_o merciful_a as_o their_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n be_v so_o and_o by_o forbear_v one_o another_o in_o case_n of_o provocation_n and_o forgive_a one_o another_o even_o as_o god_n for_o christ_n sake_n have_v forgive_v we_o by_o purify_n themselves_o as_o god_n be_v pure_a and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n as_o he_o who_o have_v call_v they_o be_v holy_a when_o all_o this_o while_n they_o be_v as_o covetous_a and_o earthly_a mind_v and_o to_o serve_v their_o covetousness_n will_v strain_v a_o point_n of_o truth_n or_o justice_n and_o hardly_o do_v a_o act_n of_o charity_n in_o their_o whole_a life_n but_o what_o be_v extort_a from_o they_o by_o mere_a importunity_n or_o some_o such_o urgent_a necessity_n in_o point_n of_o decency_n and_o reputation_n that_o for_o shame_n of_o the_o world_n they_o know_v not_o how_o to_o avoid_v it_o when_o their_o passion_n be_v as_o fierce_a and_o ungoverned_a their_o heart_n as_o full_a of_o gall_n and_o bitterness_n their_o tongue_n of_o slander_n and_o evil_n speak_v their_o humour_n as_o proud_a and_o surly_a and_o censorious_a as_o they_o can_v be_v who_o be_v open_o profane_a and_o seem_v to_o neglect_v and_o despise_v all_o religion_n and_o yet_o because_o they_o serve_v god_n as_o they_o call_v it_o and_o make_v a_o external_a appearance_n of_o piety_n and_o devotion_n be_v good_a churchman_n and_o attend_v upon_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n they_o think_v they_o have_v discharge_v the_o whole_a business_n of_o religion_n admirable_o well_o and_o be_v very_o good_a child_n of_o god_n and_o in_o a_o state_n of_o great_a grace_n and_o favour_n with_o he_o whereas_o the_o performance_n of_o all_o these_o duty_n and_o the_o use_n of_o all_o these_o mean_n separate_v from_o that_o which_o be_v the_o great_a end_n of_o religion_n the_o conformity_n of_o ourselves_o to_o god_n in_o those_o quality_n and_o disposition_n which_o i_o have_v mention_v be_v so_o far_o from_o find_v acceptance_n with_o god_n that_o it_o be_v a_o abomination_n to_o he_o so_o god_n every_o where_o declare_v in_o scripture_n tell_v we_o that_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o wicked_a be_v a_o abomination_n to_o the_o lord_n and_o that_o he_o disdain_v to_o be_v praise_v by_o man_n of_o unhallowed_a lip_n and_o life_n and_o that_o unless_o with_o the_o praise_n we_o offer_v to_o he_o we_o order_v our_o conversation_n aright_o we_o shall_v not_o see_v the_o salvation_n of_o god_n with_o what_o contempt_n do_v he_o speak_v of_o this_o formal_a and_o external_a religion_n without_o the_o power_n of_o it_o upon_o our_o heart_n and_o life_n to_o what_o purpose_n be_v the_o multitude_n of_o your_o sacrifice_n to_o i_o will_v the_o lord_n be_v please_v with_o thousand_o of_o ram_n and_o ten_o thousand_o of_o river_n of_o oil_n he_o have_v show_v thou_o o_o man_n what_o be_v good_a and_o what_o do_v the_o lord_n require_v of_o thou_o but_o to_o do_v just_o and_o to_o love_v mercy_n and_o to_o walk_v humble_o with_o thy_o god_n be_v not_o this_o the_o fast_n which_o i_o have_v choose_v to_o break_v the_o band_n of_o wickedness_n and_o to_o let_v the_o oppress_v go_v free_a to_o deal_v thy_o bread_n to_o the_o hungry_a and_o that_o thou_o bring_v the_o poor_a that_o be_v cast_v out_o to_o thy_o house_n when_o thou_o see_v the_o naked_a that_o thou_o cover_v he_o and_o that_o thou_o hide_v not_o thyself_o from_o thy_o own_o flesh_n nor_o be_v it_o hear_v of_o the_o word_n that_o will_v avail_v we_o unless_o we_o be_v doer_n of_o it_o bless_a be_v they_o say_v our_o saviour_n that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o keep_v it_o he_o that_o hear_v these_o say_n of_o i_o and_o do_v they_o shall_v be_v liken_v to_o a_o wise_a man_n who_o have_v build_v his_o house_n upon_o a_o rock_n nor_o will_v bare_v receive_v of_o the_o sacrament_n recommend_v we_o to_o god_n but_o perform_v the_o obligation_n which_o thereby_o we_o take_v upon_o ourselves_o to_o obstain_v from_o all_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n otherwise_o we_o tread_v under_o foot_n the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o profane_v the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n whereby_o we_o shall_v be_v sanctify_v as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o unholy_a thing_n can_v any_o man_n think_v that_o to_o be_v religion_n which_o have_v no_o effect_n upon_o the_o life_n of_o man_n which_o do_v not_o teach_v they_o to_o govern_v their_o word_n and_o action_n who_o read_v those_o plain_a word_n of_o st._n james_n if_o any_o man_n among_o you_o seem_v to_o be_v religious_a and_o bridle_v not_o his_o tongue_n but_o deceive_v his_o own_o heart_n that_o man_n religion_n be_v vain_a pure_a religion_n and_o undefiled_a before_o god_n and_o the_o father_n be_v this_o to_o visit_v the_o fatherless_a and_o widow_n in_o their_o affliction_n and_o to_o keep_v himself_o unspotted_a from_o the_o world_n when_o religion_n produce_v these_o real_a effect_n than_o the_o mean_n of_o religion_n do_v true_o serve_v the_o end_n of_o it_o and_o we_o be_v not_o only_a hearer_n of_o the_o word_n but_o doer_n of_o it_o and_o shall_v be_v bless_v in_o our_o deed_n so_o that_o as_o there_o be_v a_o obligation_n upon_o we_o to_o use_v the_o mean_n of_o religion_n which_o god_n have_v institute_v with_o great_a care_n and_o conscience_n so_o we_o shall_v chief_o mind_v that_o which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o religion_n which_o be_v to_o make_v we_o partaker_n of_o a_o divine_a nature_n and_o make_v we_o like_a to_o god_n especial_o in_o those_o amiable_a and_o excellent_a quality_n which_o be_v the_o glory_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n his_o benignity_n and_o goodness_n his_o mercy_n and_o patience_n these_o because_o they_o be_v the_o primary_n perfection_n of_o god_n be_v the_o principal_a duty_n both_o of_o natural_a and_o reveal_v religion_n and_o of_o a_o eternal_a and_o indispensable_a obligation_n because_o they_o have_v their_o foundation_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n which_o be_v fix_v and_o unalterable_a and_o all_o positive_a institution_n when_o they_o come_v in_o competition_n with_o these_o be_v to_o stoop_v and_o vail_v to_o they_o natural_a and_o moral_a duty_n especial_o those_o of_o goodness_n and_o mercy_n and_o charity_n be_v so_o strong_o bind_v upon_o we_o that_o nothing_o in_o any_o reveal_v religion_n can_v cancel_v the_o obligation_n of_o they_o or_o justify_v the_o violation_n of_o these_o great_a and_o indispensable_a law_n our_o saviour_n in_o his_o religion_n have_v declare_v nothing_o to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o they_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_n have_v straighten_a our_o obligation_n to_o they_o as_o much_o as_o be_v possible_a the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v not_o to_o destroy_v man_n life_n but_o to_o save_v they_o so_o that_o they_o know_v not_o what_o manner_n of_o spirit_n they_o be_v of_o who_o think_v to_o please_v god_n by_o hate_v man_n who_o be_v make_v after_o the_o image_n of_o god_n &_o by_o kill_v one_o another_o to_o do_v he_o good_a service_n who_o to_o advance_v his_o cause_n and_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n will_v break_v through_o all_o the_o obligation_n of_o nature_n and_o civil_a society_n undermine_v government_n and_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o mankind_n whereas_o our_o saviour_n do_v not_o by_o any_o thing_n in_o his_o religion_n design_n to_o alter_v the_o civil_a government_n of_o the_o world_n or_o to_o lessen_v and_o diminish_v the_o right_n of_o prince_n or_o to_o set_v man_n loose_a from_o allegiance_n to_o they_o or_o to_o make_v treason_n and_o rebellion_n bloody_a war_n and_o barbarous_a massacre_n lawful_a for_o the_o propagate_a of_o his_o faith_n he_o have_v as_o any_o one_o will_v imagine_v as_o much_o power_n as_o the_o pope_n but_o yet_o he_o depose_v no_o prince_n nor_o excommunicate_v and_o discharge_v their_o subject_n from_o their_o fidelity_n and_o obedience_n to_o they_o for_o their_o opposition_n to_o his_o religion_n he_o have_v assume_v no_o such_o power_n to_o himself_o by_o what_o authority_n then_o do_v his_o vicar_n do_v these_o thing_n and_o
who_o give_v he_o this_o authority_n our_o lord_n tell_v we_o plain_o his_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n and_o that_o without_o any_o distinction_n of_o in_o ordine_fw-la ad_fw-la spiritualia_fw-la and_o therefore_o he_o wrest_v no_o prince_n kingdom_n out_o of_o his_o hand_n nor_o seize_v it_o as_o forfeit_v to_o himself_o but_o this_o power_n the_o pope_n claim_v to_o himself_o and_o have_v exercise_v it_o many_o a_o time_n disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o nation_n and_o exercise_v the_o most_o barbarous_a cruelty_n in_o the_o world_n under_o a_o pretence_n of_o zeal_n for_o god_n and_o religion_n as_o if_o because_o religion_n be_v so_o very_o good_a a_o thing_n in_o itself_o it_o will_v warrant_v man_n to_o do_v the_o very_o worst_a thing_n for_o its_o sake_n which_o be_v the_o ready_a way_n to_o render_v religion_n contemptible_a and_o odious_a and_o to_o make_v two_o of_o the_o best_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n god_n and_o religion_n good_a for_o nothing_o if_o we_o will_v preserve_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n any_o reverence_n and_o esteem_v for_o religion_n we_o must_v take_v heed_n how_o we_o destroy_v the_o principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o undermine_v the_o peace_n and_o happiness_n of_o humane_a society_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o under_o pretence_n of_o follow_v divine_a revelation_n and_o be_v lead_v by_o a_o church_n that_o can_v err_v for_o every_o church_n do_v certain_o err_v that_o teach_v any_o thing_n plain_o contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n and_o dictate_v â—f_o natural_a religion_n and_o utter_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o essential_a perfection_n of_o god_n and_o with_o the_o peace_n and_o order_n of_o the_o world_n for_o god_n be_v not_o the_o god_n of_o confusion_n but_o of_o order_n which_o st._n paul_n appeal_v to_o as_o a_o principle_n of_o eternal_a truth_n and_o natural_o know_v but_o they_o that_o pretend_v that_o religion_n prompt_v man_n to_o sedition_n and_o cruelty_n do_v represent_v god_n as_o the_o god_n of_o confusion_n and_o not_o of_o order_n therefore_o whatever_o man_n may_v through_o a_o ignorant_a zeal_n or_o for_o ambitious_a end_n pretend_v to_o be_v religion_n let_v we_o place_v it_o in_o that_o which_o be_v unquestionable_a the_o imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a perfection_n and_o let_v we_o as_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v put_v on_o as_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n bowel_n of_o mercy_n kindness_n meekness_n long-suffering_a and_o above_o all_o let_v we_o put_v on_o charity_n which_o be_v the_o very_a bond_n of_o perfection_n the_o great_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n or_o rather_o the_o very_a essence_n of_o god_n be_v love_n so_o st._n john_n speak_v god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o dwell_v in_o love_n dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o and_o it_o be_v very_o remarkable_a that_o in_o these_o very_a quality_n of_o charity_n and_o kindness_n and_o compassion_n which_o we_o peculiar_o call_v humanity_n we_o approach_v near_o to_o the_o divinity_n itself_o and_o that_o the_o contrary_a disposition_n do_v transform_v we_o into_o wild_a beast_n and_o devil_n and_o yet_o as_o severe_o as_o i_o speak_v against_o these_o principle_n and_o practice_n i_o have_v a_o hearty_a pity_n and_o compassion_n for_o those_o who_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o so_o great_a a_o delusion_n and_o upon_o a_o pretence_n of_o be_v make_v the_o only_a true_a christian_n in_o the_o world_n be_v seduce_v from_o humanity_n itself_o and_o so_o far_o from_o be_v make_v good_a christian_n by_o these_o principle_n that_o they_o be_v hardly_o leave_v to_o be_v man_n be_v blind_v and_o lead_v by_o the_o blind_a they_o fall_v into_o the_o ditch_n of_o the_o gross_a and_o foul_a immorality_n such_o as_o be_v plain_o enough_o condemn_v by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n if_o there_o be_v no_o bible_n in_o the_o world_n not_o but_o that_o we_o protestant_n have_v our_o fault_n and_o our_o folly_n too_o and_o those_o god_n know_v too_o many_o and_o too_o visible_a we_o possess_v more_o truth_n but_o there_o be_v little_a peace_n among_o we_o and_o yet_o god_n be_v as_o well_o and_o as_o often_o in_o scripture_n call_v the_o god_n of_o peace_n as_o the_o god_n of_o truth_n in_o this_o great_a light_n and_o liberty_n of_o the_o reform_a religion_n we_o be_v apt_a to_o be_v wanton_a and_o to_o quarrel_n and_o fall_v out_o we_o be_v full_a of_o heat_n and_o animosity_n of_o schism_n and_o division_n and_o the_o way_n of_o peace_n we_o have_v not_o know_v god_n grant_v that_o at_o last_o in_o this_o our_o day_n when_o it_o concern_v we_o so_o much_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o our_o peace_n before_o they_o be_v hide_v from_o our_o eye_n you_o see_v in_o what_o thing_n the_o practice_n of_o religion_n main_o consist_v in_o our_o likeness_n to_o god_n and_o resemblance_n of_o he_o in_o holiness_n and_o goodness_n and_o without_o this_o we_o be_v utter_o incapable_a of_o happiness_n we_o can_v see_v god_n unless_o we_o be_v like_o he_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n can_v administer_v no_o pleasure_n no_o felicity_n to_o we_o till_o we_o be_v change_v into_o his_o image_n till_o we_o come_v to_o this_o temper_n to_o hate_v sin_n and_o delight_n in_o purity_n and_o holiness_n we_o can_v have_v no_o delightful_a communion_n with_o the_o holy_a god_n till_o our_o passion_n be_v subdue_v and_o our_o soul_n dispossess_v of_o those_o devilish_a and_o ungodlike_a quality_n of_o hatred_n and_o malice_n of_o revenge_n and_o impatience_n and_o till_o we_o be_v endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o universal_a goodness_n and_o charity_n we_o be_v not_o fit_a company_n for_o our_o heavenly_a father_n we_o be_v not_o qualify_v to_o dwell_v with_o god_n who_o be_v love_n and_o dwell_v in_o love_n so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v defective_a in_o these_o divine_a quality_n and_o perfection_n so_o far_o we_o fall_v short_a of_o the_o temper_n of_o happiness_n there_o be_v a_o direct_a and_o eternal_a opposition_n between_o the_o holy_a and_o good_a god_n and_o the_o evil_a disposition_n of_o wicked_a man_n and_o till_o this_o opposition_n be_v remove_v it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v find_v any_o felicity_n in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o god_n now_o the_o nature_n of_o god_n be_v fix_v and_o unchangeable_a god_n can_v recede_v from_o his_o own_o perfection_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v quit_v our_o sin_n thou_o can_v not_o change_v god_n therefore_o change_v thyself_o and_o rather_o think_v of_o put_v off_o thy_o corrupt_a nature_n which_o may_v be_v change_v than_o of_o alter_v the_o divine_a nature_n with_o who_o be_v no_o variableness_n nor_o shadow_n of_o turn_v god_n condescend_v to_o take_v our_o nature_n upon_o he_o to_o make_v we_o capable_a of_o happiness_n but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o do_v he_o will_v not_o put_v off_o his_o own_o nature_n to_o make_v we_o happy_a sermon_n iii_o vi_o the_o happiness_n of_o god_n 1_o tim_n 1.11_o the_o bless_a god_n the_o whole_a verse_n run_v thus_o according_a to_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n which_o be_v commit_v to_o my_o trust_n since_o all_o man_n natural_o desire_v happiness_n and_o thirst_n after_o it_o methinks_v we_o shall_v all_o desire_n to_o know_v what_o it_o be_v and_o where_o it_o be_v to_o be_v find_v and_o how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v attain_v by_o we_o in_o that_o degree_n in_o which_o creature_n be_v capable_a of_o it_o what_o job_n say_v of_o wisdom_n may_v be_v say_v also_o of_o happiness_n god_n understand_v the_o way_n thereof_o and_o he_o know_v the_o place_n thereof_o he_o only_o who_o be_v perfect_o possess_v of_o it_o himself_o know_v wherein_o it_o consist_v and_o what_o be_v the_o true_a ingredient_n of_o it_o so_o that_o to_o direct_v we_o in_o our_o search_n after_o happiness_n the_o best_a way_n will_v be_v to_o contemplate_v and_o consider_v the_o divine_a nature_n which_o be_v the_o perfect_a pattern_n and_o idea_n of_o happiness_n and_o the_o original_a spring_n and_o fountain_n of_o all_o the_o felicity_n that_o creature_n be_v capable_a of_o and_o to_o that_o end_n i_o have_v pitch_v upon_o these_o word_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n attribute_n this_o perfection_n of_o bessedness_n or_o happiness_n to_o god_n the_o bless_a god_n and_o though_o this_o be_v as_o essential_a a_o part_n as_o any_o other_o of_o that_o notion_n which_o mankind_n have_v of_o god_n from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n yet_o i_o no_o where_o find_v in_o all_o the_o new_a testament_n this_o attribute_n of_o happiness_n give_v to_o god_n but_o only_o twice_o in_o this_o epistle_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o the_o title_n of_o blessedness_n be_v frequent_o give_v both_o to_o god_n and_o christ_n but_o in_o another_o sense_n and_o in_o a_o quite_o different_a notion_n as_o mark_v 14.61_o where_o the_o highpriest_n ask_v our_o
pride_n of_o evil_a man_n 3._o use_v trust_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n which_o make_v the_o world_n to_o govern_v it_o and_o the_o affair_n of_o it_o and_o the_o wisdom_n which_o have_v frame_v thy_o body_n in_o so_o curious_a and_o exquisite_a a_o manner_n and_o form_v thy_o spirit_n within_o thou_o and_o have_v make_v so_o many_o creature_n with_o reference_n to_o thy_o necessity_n and_o comfort_n trust_v he_o for_o thy_o future_a provision_n mat._n 6.25_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o take_v no_o thought_n for_o your_o life_n what_o you_o shall_v eat_v etc._n etc._n be_v not_o the_o life_n more_o than_o meat_n and_o the_o body_n than_o raiment_n he_o have_v give_v we_o our_o soul_n he_o have_v breathe_v into_o we_o the_o breath_n of_o life_n and_o make_v these_o body_n without_o our_o care_n and_o thought_n he_o have_v do_v the_o great_a will_v he_o not_o do_v the_o less_o when_o thou_o be_v ready_a anxious_o and_o solicitous_o to_o say_v what_o shall_v i_o do_v for_o the_o necessary_n of_o life_n consider_v whence_o thou_o do_v receive_v thy_o life_n who_o make_v this_o body_n of_o thou_o thou_o may_v be_v assure_v that_o the_o wisdom_n which_o have_v create_v these_o consider_v how_o to_o supply_v they_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n know_v that_o you_o will_v want_v all_o these_o and_o have_v according_o provide_v for_o they_o therefore_o fear_v not_o sermon_n viii_o vi_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n in_o his_o providence_n preach_v at_o kensington_n i_o peter_z v._n 7_o cast_v all_o your_o care_n upon_o he_o for_o he_o care_v for_o you_o among_o the_o several_a duty_n which_o towards_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o epistle_n the_o apostle_n exhort_v christian_n to_o this_o be_v one_o not_o to_o be_v overmuch_o solicitous_a and_o concern_v about_o what_o may_v befall_v we_o but_o to_o refer_v ourselves_o to_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n which_o take_v care_n of_o we_o in_o speak_v to_o this_o argument_n i_o shall_v i._o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n here_o require_v which_o be_v to_o cast_v our_o care_n upon_o god_n ii_o the_o argument_n use_v to_o persuade_v we_o to_o it_o because_o he_o care_v for_o we_o i._o for_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n here_o require_v the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d signify_v a_o anxious_a care_n about_o event_n a_o care_n that_o be_v accompany_v with_o trouble_n and_o disquiet_v of_o mind_n about_o what_o may_v befall_v we_o about_o the_o good_a that_o we_o hope_v for_o and_o desire_n or_o about_o the_o evil_n which_o we_o fear_v may_v come_v upon_o we_o this_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o to_o throw_v off_o and_o to_o leave_v to_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o his_o care_n all_o those_o event_n which_o we_o be_v apt_a to_o be_v so_o solicitous_a and_o disquiet_v about_o the_o expression_n seem_v to_o be_v take_v out_o of_o psal_n 55.22_o cast_v thy_o burden_n upon_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o shall_v sustain_v thou_o now_o that_o we_o may_v not_o mistake_v our_o duty_n in_o this_o matter_n i_o shall_v show_v what_o be_v not_o here_o mean_v by_o cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o god_n and_o then_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o it_o the_o apostle_n do_v not_o hereby_o intend_v to_o take_v man_n off_o from_o a_o provident_a care_n and_o diligence_n about_o the_o concernment_n of_o this_o life_n this_o be_v not_o only_o contrary_a to_o reason_n but_o to_o many_o express_a precept_n and_o passage_n of_o scripture_n wherein_o diligence_n be_v recommend_v to_o we_o and_o the_o blessing_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a success_n of_o our_o affair_n promise_v thereto_o wherein_o we_o be_v command_v to_o provide_v for_o those_o of_o our_o family_n which_o can_v be_v do_v without_o some_o sort_n of_o care_n and_o wherein_o sloathfulness_n and_o negligence_n be_v condemn_v and_o threaten_v with_o poverty_n so_o that_o this_o be_v not_o to_o cast_v our_o care_n upon_o god_n to_o take_v no_o care_n of_o ourselves_o to_o use_v no_o diligence_n and_o endeavour_n for_o the_o obtain_n of_o the_o good_a which_o we_o desire_v and_o the_o prevention_n of_o the_o evil_n we_o fear_v this_o be_v to_o tempt_v the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o to_o cast_v that_o burden_n upon_o he_o which_o he_o expect_v we_o shall_v bear_v ourselves_o but_o by_o cast_v our_o care_n upon_o god_n the_o apostle_n intend_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o after_o all_o prudent_a care_n and_o diligence_n have_v be_v use_v by_o we_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v far_o solicitous_a nor_o trouble_v ourselves_o about_o the_o event_n of_o thing_n which_o when_o we_o have_v do_v all_o we_o can_v will_v be_v out_o of_o our_o power_n and_o this_o certain_o be_v our_o saviour_n meaning_n when_o he_o bid_v we_o take_v no_o care_n for_o the_o morrow_n when_o we_o have_v do_v what_o be_v fit_a for_o we_o for_o the_o present_a to_o do_v we_o shall_v not_o disquiet_v and_o torment_v ourselves_o about_o the_o issue_n and_o event_n of_o thing_n 2._o cast_v our_o care_n upon_o god_n imply_v that_o we_o shall_v refer_v the_o issue_n of_o thing_n to_o his_o providence_n which_o be_v continual_o vigilant_a over_o we_o and_o know_v how_o to_o dispose_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o best_a entire_o confide_v in_o his_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n that_o he_o will_v order_v all_o thing_n for_o our_o good_a and_o in_o that_o confidence_n resolve_v to_o rest_v satisfy_v and_o content_v with_o the_o disposal_n of_o his_o providence_n whatever_o they_o be_v you_o see_v then_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n which_o the_o apostle_n here_o exhort_v to_o viz._n that_o after_o all_o prudent_a care_n and_o diligence_n have_v be_v use_v on_o our_o part_n we_o shall_v not_o be_v disquiet_v in_o our_o mind_n about_o the_o event_n of_o thing_n but_o leave_v they_o to_o god_n who_o have_v the_o care_n of_o we_o and_o of_o all_o our_o concernment_n which_o be_v the_o ii_o thing_n i_o propose_v to_o speak_v to_o and_o which_o i_o intend_v chief_o to_o insist_v upon_o viz._n the_o argument_n which_o the_o apostle_n here_o use_v to_o persuade_v we_o to_o this_o duty_n of_o cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o god_n because_o it_o be_v he_o that_o care_v for_o we_o and_o this_o imply_v in_o it_o these_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o general_n that_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n govern_v the_o world_n and_o concern_v itself_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o man_n and_o dispose_v of_o all_o event_n that_o happen_v to_o we_o 2._o more_o particular_o that_o this_o providence_n be_v peculiar_o concern_v for_o good_a man_n and_o that_o he_o take_v a_o special_a care_n of_o they_o and_o their_o concern_v he_o care_v for_o you_o the_o apostle_n speak_v this_o to_o they_o not_o only_o as_o man_n but_o as_o christian_n and_o thus_o the_o psalmist_n from_o who_o these_o word_n seem_v to_o be_v take_v do_v apply_v and_o limit_v this_o promise_n cast_v thy_o burden_n upon_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o shall_v sustain_v thou_o he_o shall_v never_o suffer_v the_o righteous_a to_o be_v move_v 1._o that_o god_n take_v care_n of_o we_o 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the_o other_o world_n when_o we_o shall_v see_v god_n work_n together_o with_o the_o relation_n of_o every_o part_n to_o the_o whole_a design_n and_o then_o many_o particular_a passage_n which_o may_v now_o seem_v odd_a and_o crooked_a as_o we_o look_v upon_o they_o by_o themselves_o will_v in_o relation_n to_o the_o whole_a appear_v to_o have_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o reason_n and_o regularity_n in_o they_o therefore_o i_o shall_v at_o present_v only_o brief_o and_o in_o the_o general_n show_v that_o it_o be_v very_o credible_a that_o there_o be_v a_o wise_a providence_n that_o govern_v the_o world_n and_o interest_n itself_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o man_n and_o dispose_v of_o all_o event_n which_o happen_v to_o we_o and_o i_o desire_v it_o may_v be_v observe_v
in_o the_o entrance_n upon_o this_o argument_n that_o the_o handle_n of_o this_o question_n concern_v providence_n do_v suppose_v the_o be_v of_o god_n and_o that_o he_o make_v the_o world_n as_o principle_n already_o know_v and_o grant_v before_o we_o come_v to_o dispute_v of_o his_o providence_n for_o it_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a to_o argue_v about_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n with_o those_o who_o question_n his_o be_v and_o whether_o the_o world_n be_v make_v by_o he_o but_o suppose_v these_o two_o principle_n that_o god_n be_v and_o that_o he_o make_v the_o world_n it_o be_v very_o credible_a that_o he_o shall_v take_v care_n of_o the_o government_n of_o it_o and_o especial_o of_o one_o of_o the_o noble_a part_n of_o it_o the_o race_n of_o mankind_n for_o we_o can_v believe_v that_o he_o who_o employ_v so_o much_o power_n and_o wisdom_n in_o the_o raise_n of_o this_o great_a and_o magnificent_a pile_n and_o furnish_v every_o part_n of_o it_o with_o such_o variety_n of_o creature_n so_o exquisite_o and_o so_o wise_o fit_v for_o the_o use_n and_o service_n of_o one_o another_o shall_v so_o soon_o as_o he_o have_v perfect_v it_o forsake_v his_o own_o workmanship_n and_o take_v no_o far_o care_n of_o it_o especial_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v no_o trouble_n and_o disquiet_v to_o he_o either_o to_o take_v notice_n of_o what_o be_v do_v here_o below_o or_o to_o interpose_v for_o the_o regulate_v of_o any_o disorder_n that_o may_v happen_v for_o infinite_a knowledge_n and_o wisdom_n and_o power_n can_v do_v this_o with_o all_o imaginable_a ease_n know_v all_o thing_n and_o can_v do_v all_o thing_n without_o any_o disturbance_n of_o its_o own_o happiness_n and_o this_o have_v always_o be_v the_o common_a apprehension_n of_o mankind_n that_o god_n know_v all_o thing_n and_o observe_v every_o thing_n that_o be_v do_v in_o the_o world_n and_o when_o he_o please_v interpose_v in_o the_o affair_n of_o it_o it_o be_v true_a indeed_o the_o epicurean_o do_v deny_v that_o god_n either_o make_v the_o world_n or_o govern_v it_o and_o therefore_o wise_a man_n always_o doubt_v whether_o they_o do_v indeed_o believe_v the_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o but_o be_v unwilling_a to_o incur_v the_o danger_n of_o so_o odious_a a_o opinion_n they_o be_v content_a for_o fashion_n sake_n to_o own_o his_o be_v provide_v they_o may_v take_v away_o the_o best_a and_o most_o substantial_a argument_n for_o the_o proof_n oâ—_n it_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o philosopher_n own_v a_o providence_n at_o least_o a_o general_a providence_n that_o take_v care_n of_o great_a and_o more_o important_a matter_n but_o do_v not_o descend_v to_o a_o constant_a and_o particular_a care_n of_o every_o person_n and_o every_o little_a event_n belong_v to_o they_o interdum_fw-la curiosus_fw-la singulorum_fw-la say_v tully_n now_o and_o then_o when_o he_o please_v he_o take_v care_n of_o particular_a person_n and_o their_o lesser_a concernment_n but_o many_o of_o they_o thought_n that_o god_n do_v general_o neglect_v the_o small_a and_o more_o inconsiderable_a affair_n of_o the_o world_n dii_fw-la minora_fw-la negligunt_fw-la neque_fw-la agelloâ—_n singulorum_fw-la &_o viticulas_fw-la persequuntur_fw-la the_o god_n overlook_v small_a matter_n and_o do_v not_o mind_v every_o man_n little_a field_n and_o vine_n such_o imperfect_a apprehension_n have_v they_o of_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o though_o they_o will_v seem_v hereby_o to_o consult_v the_o dignity_n and_o ease_n of_o the_o deity_n by_o exempt_n he_o from_o the_o care_n and_o trouble_v of_o lesser_a matter_n yet_o in_o truth_n and_o reality_n they_o cast_v a_o dishonourable_a reflection_n upon_o he_o as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o burden_n to_o infinite_a knowledge_n and_o power_n and_o goodness_n to_o take_v care_n of_o every_o thing_n but_o now_o divine_a revelation_n have_v put_v this_o matter_n out_o of_o doubt_n by_o assure_v we_o of_o god_n particular_a care_n of_o all_o person_n and_o event_n our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o that_o god_n providence_n extend_v to_o the_o least_o and_o most_o inconsiderable_a creature_n to_o the_o grass_n of_o the_o field_n which_o to_o day_n be_v and_o to_o morrow_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o oven_n mat._n 6.30_o to_o the_o fowl_n of_o the_o air_n and_o that_o to_o the_o least_o of_o they_o even_o to_o the_o sparrow_n two_o of_o which_o be_v sell_v for_o a_o farthing_n and_o yet_o not_o one_o of_o they_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n without_o god_n mat._n 10.29_o much_o more_o do_v the_o providence_n of_o god_n extend_v to_o man_n which_o be_v creature_n far_o more_o considerable_a and_o to_o the_o very_a lest_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o we_o to_o the_o very_a hair_n of_o our_o head_n which_o be_v all_o number_v the_o low_a instance_n that_o can_v be_v think_v on_o so_o that_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n own_v a_o more_o general_a providence_n and_o divine_a revelation_n have_v rectify_v those_o imperfect_a apprehension_n which_o man_n have_v about_o it_o and_o have_v satisfy_v we_o that_o it_o extend_v itself_o to_o all_o particular_n and_o even_o to_o the_o least_o thing_n and_o most_o inconsiderable_a and_o this_o be_v no_o way_n incredible_a consider_v the_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n in_o respect_n of_o which_o god_n can_v with_o as_o much_o and_o great_a ease_n take_v care_n of_o every_o thing_n than_o we_o can_v do_v of_o any_o one_o thing_n and_o the_o belief_n of_o this_o be_v the_o great_a foundation_n of_o religion_n man_n therefore_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o the_o good_a they_o want_v and_o to_o be_v free_v from_o the_o evil_n they_o fear_v because_o they_o believe_v that_o he_o always_o regard_v and_o hear_v they_o man_n therefore_o make_v conscience_n of_o their_o duty_n because_o they_o believe_v god_n observe_v they_o and_o will_v reward_v and_o punish_v their_o good_a and_o evil_a deed_n so_o that_o take_v away_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o we_o pull_v down_o one_o of_o the_o main_a pillar_n upon_o which_o religion_n stand_v we_o rob_v ourselves_o of_o one_o of_o the_o great_a comfort_n and_o best_a refuge_n in_o the_o affliction_n and_o calamity_n of_o this_o life_n and_o of_o all_o our_o hope_n of_o happiness_n in_o the_o next_o and_o though_o there_o be_v many_o disorder_n in_o the_o world_n especial_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o man_n the_o most_o irregular_a and_o intractable_a piece_n of_o god_n creation_n yet_o this_o be_v far_o from_o be_v a_o sufficient_a objection_n against_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n if_o we_o consider_v that_o god_n make_v man_n a_o free_a creature_n and_o capable_a of_o abuse_v his_o liberty_n and_o intend_v this_o present_a life_n for_o a_o state_n of_o trial_n in_o order_n to_o another_o where_o man_n shall_v receive_v the_o just_a recompense_n of_o their_o action_n here_o and_o then_o if_o we_o consider_v that_o many_o of_o the_o evil_n and_o disorder_n which_o god_n permit_v to_o happen_v be_v capable_a of_o be_v overrule_v by_o he_o to_o a_o great_a good_a and_o be_v make_v many_o time_n to_o serve_v wise_a and_o excellent_a purpose_n and_o that_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n do_v sometime_o visible_o and_o remarkable_o interpose_v for_o the_o prevention_n and_o remedy_n of_o great_a disorder_n and_o confusion_n i_o say_v consider_v all_o this_o it_o be_v no_o blemish_n to_o the_o divine_a providence_n to_o permit_v many_o of_o those_o irregularity_n which_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o suffer_v the_o fate_n of_o good_a and_o bad_a man_n to_o be_v so_o cross_a and_o unequal_a in_o this_o life_n for_o suppose_v another_o life_n after_o this_o wherein_o man_n shall_v come_v to_o a_o account_n and_o every_o man_n shall_v receive_v the_o just_a recompense_n of_o his_o action_n there_o will_v then_o be_v a_o proper_a season_n and_o full_a opportunity_n of_o set_v all_o thing_n straight_o and_o no_o man_n shall_v have_v reason_n then_o either_o to_o glory_n in_o his_o wickedness_n or_o to_o complain_v of_o his_o suffering_n in_o this_o world_n this_o be_v the_o first_o that_o god_n providence_n govern_v the_o world_n and_o interest_n itself_o in_o the_o affair_n of_o man_n and_o dispose_v of_o all_o event_n that_o happen_v to_o they_o and_o this_o be_v a_o very_a good_a reason_n why_o we_o shall_v cast_v our_o particular_a care_n upon_o he_o who_o have_v undertake_v the_o government_n of_o the_o whole_a 2._o the_o providence_n of_o god_n be_v more_o peculiar_o concern_v for_o good_a man_n and_o he_o take_v a_o more_o particular_a and_o especial_a care_n of_o they_o the_o apostle_n speak_v this_o to_o christian_n cast_v all_o your_o care_n on_o he_o for_o he_o care_v for_o you_o and_o this_o david_n limit_n in_o a_o more_o peculiar_a manner_n to_o good_a man_n cast_v thy_o burden_n upon_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o will_v sustain_v thou_o he_o shall_v never_o suffer_v the_o
minister_n of_o god_n say_v he_o must_v be_v without_o house_n and_o harbour_n and_o worldly_a accommodation_n must_v be_v arm_v with_o such_o patience_n for_o the_o great_a suffering_n as_o if_o he_o be_v a_o stone_n and_o devoid_a of_o sense_n he_o must_v be_v a_o spectacle_n of_o misery_n and_o contempt_n to_o the_o world_n so_o that_o by_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o these_o two_o wise_a heathen_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o suffering_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v unbecoming_a the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o improper_a to_o the_o end_n and_o design_n of_o christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n beside_o that_o they_o serve_v a_o further_a end_n which_o they_o do_v not_o dream_v of_o the_o satisfy_n of_o divine_a justice_n second_o his_o exaltation_n the_o several_a part_n of_o which_o his_o resurrection_n and_o ascension_n and_o sit_v the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n be_v eminent_o subservient_fw-fr to_o the_o perfect_a and_o carry_v on_o of_o this_o design_n the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o great_a confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o that_o he_o deliver_v rom._n 1.4_o declare_v to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n with_o power_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d by_o the_o resurrection_n from_o the_o dead_a this_o great_a miracle_n of_o his_o resurrection_n from_o the_o dead_a do_v determine_v the_o controversy_n and_o put_v it_o out_o of_o all_o doubt_n and_o question_n that_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o then_o his_o ascension_n and_o sit_v at_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o god_n this_o give_v we_o the_o assurance_n of_o a_o bless_a immortality_n and_o be_v a_o demonstration_n of_o a_o life_n to_o come_v and_o a_o pledge_n of_o everlasting_a glory_n and_o happiness_n and_o can_v any_o thing_n tend_v more_o to_o the_o encouragement_n of_o obedience_n and_o to_o make_v we_o dead_a to_o the_o pleasure_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o this_o life_n than_o the_o assurance_n of_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n and_o then_o the_o consequent_n of_o his_o exaltation_n they_o do_v eminent_o conduce_v to_o our_o recovery_n the_o send_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o lead_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n to_o sanctify_v we_o to_o assist_v we_o and_o to_o comfort_v we_o under_o the_o great_a trouble_n and_o affliction_n and_o the_o powerful_a intercession_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o behalf_n and_o his_o return_n to_o judgement_n the_o expectation_n whereof_o be_v the_o great_a argument_n to_o repentance_n and_o holiness_n of_o life_n act_n 17.30_o 31._o and_o the_o time_n of_o this_o ignorance_n god_n wink_v at_o but_o now_o command_v all_o man_n every_o where_o to_o repent_v because_o he_o have_v appoint_v a_o day_n in_o the_o which_o he_o will_v judge_v the_o world_n in_o righteousness_n by_o that_o man_n who_o he_o have_v ordain_v whereof_o he_o have_v give_v assurance_n unto_o all_o man_n in_o that_o he_o have_v raise_v he_o from_o the_o dead_a and_o thus_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o prove_v that_o the_o redemption_n of_o man_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v a_o design_n of_o admirable_a wisdom_n the_o use_n i_o shall_v make_v of_o it_o be_v to_o convince_v we_o of_o the_o uunreasonableness_n of_o unbelief_n and_o the_o folly_n and_o madness_n of_o impenitency_n first_o the_o unreasonableness_n of_o unbelief_n the_o gospel_n reveal_v to_o we_o the_o wise_a counsel_n and_o dispensation_n of_o god_n for_o our_o redemption_n and_o those_o who_o disbelieve_v the_o gospel_n they_o reject_v the_o counsel_n of_o god_n against_o themselves_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o the_o unbelieve_a pharisee_n and_o lawyer_n luke_n 7.30_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v to_o we_o a_o design_n so_o reasonable_a and_o full_a of_o wisdom_n that_o they_o who_o can_v disbelieve_v it_o be_v desperate_a person_n devote_v to_o ruin_n 1_o cor._n 1.18_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o they_o that_o perish_v foolishness_n 2_o cor._n 4.3_o 4._o but_o if_o our_o gospel_n be_v hide_v it_o be_v hide_v to_o they_o that_o be_v lose_v in_o who_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n have_v blind_v the_o eye_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v not_o lest_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v the_o image_n of_o god_n shall_v shine_v unto_o they_o the_o gospel_n carry_v so_o much_o light_n and_o evidence_n in_o it_o that_o it_o can_v be_v hide_v from_o any_o but_o such_o who_o eye_n be_v blind_v by_o the_o devil_n and_o their_o lust_n he_o that_o will_v due_o weigh_v and_o consider_v thing_n and_o look_v narrow_o into_o this_o wise_a dispensation_n of_o god_n shall_v find_v nothing_o to_o object_n against_o it_o nay_o shall_v discover_v in_o it_o the_o great_a motive_n and_o inducement_n to_o believe_v we_o be_v apt_a to_o believe_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v reasonable_a especial_o if_o it_o be_v for_o our_o advantage_n now_o this_o wise_a dispensation_n of_o god_n be_v not_o only_o reasonable_a in_o itself_o but_o beneficial_a to_o we_o it_o do_v at_o once_o high_o gratify_v our_o understanding_n and_o satisfy_v our_o interest_n why_o shall_v we_o not_o then_o believe_v and_o entertain_v it_o i._o the_o design_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v reasonable_a and_o gratify_v our_o understanding_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o gospel_n have_v incomparable_a advantage_n above_o any_o other_o religion_n the_o end_n of_o all_o religion_n be_v to_o advance_v piety_n and_o holiness_n and_o real_a goodness_n among_o man_n and_o the_o more_o any_o religion_n advance_v these_o the_o more_o reasonable_a it_o be_v now_o the_o great_a incitement_n and_o argument_n to_o piety_n be_v the_o excellency_n and_o perfection_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n fear_v of_o punishment_n and_o hope_n of_o pardon_n and_o reward_n now_o the_o gospel_n represent_v all_o these_o to_o the_o great_a advantage_n 1._o it_o represent_v the_o perfection_n of_o god_n to_o the_o great_a advantage_n especial_o those_o which_o tend_v most_o to_o the_o promotion_n of_o piety_n and_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o we_o his_o justice_n and_o mercy_n 1._o his_o justice_n the_o gospel_n represent_v it_o inflexible_a in_o its_o right_n and_o inexorable_a and_o that_o will_v not_o in_o any_o case_n let_v sin_n go_v unpunished_a the_o impartiality_n of_o the_o divine_a justice_n appear_v in_o this_o dispensation_n that_o when_o god_n pardon_v the_o sinner_n yet_o he_o will_v punish_v sin_n so_o severe_o in_o his_o own_o son_n who_o be_v the_o surety_n now_o what_o can_v more_o tend_v to_o discountenance_v sin_n and_o convince_v we_o of_o the_o great_a evil_n of_o it_o 2._o his_o mercy_n this_o dispensation_n be_v a_o great_a demonstration_n of_o the_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n and_o love_n of_o god_n in_o send_v his_o son_n to_o die_v for_o sinner_n and_o in_o save_v we_o by_o devote_v and_o sacrifice_v he_o john_n 3.16_o for_o god_n so_o love_v the_o world_n that_o he_o give_v his_o only_a beget_v son_n rom._n 5.8_o but_o god_n commend_v his_o love_n towards_o we_o in_o that_o while_o we_o be_v yet_o sinner_n christ_n die_v for_o we_o 1_o john_n 4.9_o 10._o in_o this_o be_v manifest_v the_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o we_o because_o god_n send_v his_o only_o beget_v son_n into_o the_o world_n that_o we_o may_v live_v through_o he_o herein_o be_v love_n not_o that_o we_o love_v god_n but_o that_o he_o love_v we_o and_o send_v his_o son_n to_o be_v the_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n now_o this_o representation_n of_o god_n mercy_n and_o love_n which_o the_o gospel_n make_v be_v of_o great_a force_n and_o efficacy_n to_o melt_v our_o heart_n into_o love_n to_o god_n 2._o the_o second_o argument_n to_o piety_n be_v fear_n of_o punishment_n the_o gospel_n have_v reveal_v to_o we_o the_o misery_n of_o those_o who_o continue_v in_o their_o sin_n it_o have_v make_v clear_a and_o terrible_a discovery_n of_o those_o torment_n which_o attend_v sinner_n in_o another_o world_n and_o have_v open_v to_o we_o the_o treasure_n of_o god_n wrath_n so_o that_o now_o under_o the_o gospel_n hell_n be_v naked_a before_o we_o and_o destruction_n have_v no_o cover_n and_o this_o be_v one_o thing_n which_o make_v the_o gospel_n so_o powerful_a a_o engine_n to_o destroy_v sin_n rom._n 1.16_o 18._o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n for_o therein_o be_v the_o wrath_n of_o god_n reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o all_o ungodliness_n and_o unrighteousness_n of_o man_n 3._o hope_n of_o pardon_n and_o reward_n and_o this_o add_v to_o the_o former_a render_v the_o gospel_n the_o most_o powerful_a instrument_n to_o take_v man_n off_o from_o sin_n and_o engage_v they_o to_o holiness_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v the_o mean_n to_o draw_v man_n from_o sin_n when_o they_o be_v once_o awaken_v with_o the_o fear_n of_o vengeance_n be_v hope_n of_o pardon_n and_o mercy_n and_o the_o way_n to_o encourage_v obedience_n for_o the_o future_a be_v hope_n of_o
wander_v up_o and_o down_o in_o dry_a and_o desert_a place_n seek_v rest_n but_o find_v none_o be_v the_o whole_a world_n calm_a about_o a_o man_n and_o do_v it_o not_o make_v the_o least_o attempt_n upon_o he_o be_v he_o free_a from_o the_o fear_n of_o divine_a vengeance_n yet_o he_o can_v not_o be_v satisfy_v with_o himself_o there_o be_v something_o within_o he_o that_o will_v not_o let_v he_o be_v at_o rest_n but_o will_v tear_v he_o from_o his_o own_o foundation_n and_o consistency_n so_o that_o when_o we_o be_v once_o break_v off_o from_o god_n the_o sense_n of_o inward_a want_n do_v stimulate_v and_o force_v we_o to_o seek_v our_o contentment_n elsewhere_o so_o that_o nothing_o but_o holiness_n which_o reunites_a we_o to_o god_n and_o restore_v our_o soul_n to_o their_o primitive_a and_o original_a state_n can_v make_v we_o happy_a and_o give_v peace_n and_o rest_n to_o our_o soul_n and_o this_o be_v the_o constant_a voice_n and_o language_n of_o scripture_n and_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o bible_n acquaint_v thyself_o with_o god_n that_o thou_o may_v be_v at_o peace_n job_n 22.21_o light_n be_v sow_v for_o the_o righteous_a and_o gladness_n for_o the_o upright_a in_o heart_n psal_n 97.11_o the_o work_n of_o righteousness_n be_v peace_n and_o the_o effect_n of_o righteousness_n quietness_n and_o assurance_n for_o ever_o isa_n 32.17_o see_v then_o holiness_n be_v so_o high_a a_o perfection_n and_o so_o great_a a_o happiness_n let_v these_o argument_n prevail_v with_o we_o to_o aspire_v after_o this_o temper_n that_o as_o he_o who_o have_v call_v we_o be_v holy_a so_o we_o may_v be_v holy_a in_o all_o manner_n of_o conversation_n because_o it_o be_v write_v be_v you_o holy_a for_o i_o be_o holy_a advertisement_n the_o discourse_n of_o the_o divine_a goodness_n be_v more_o than_o can_v be_v contain_v in_o this_o volume_n be_v together_o with_o those_o of_o the_o remain_a attribute_n reserve_v for_o the_o next_o but_o to_o complete_a this_o here_o follow_v a_o single_a sermon_n upon_o another_o subject_a sermon_n fourteen_o vi_o of_o do_v good_n be_v a_o spital_n sermon_n preach_v at_o christ-church_n on_o easter-tuesday_n april_n 14_o 1691._o galat._n vi_o 9_o 10._o let_v we_o not_o be_v weary_a in_o well_o do_v forin_o due_a season_n we_o shall_v reap_v if_o we_o faint_v not_o as_o we_o have_v therefore_o opportunity_n let_v we_o do_v good_a unto_o all_o man_n especial_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n the_o apostle_n in_o these_o word_n recommend_v unto_o we_o a_o great_a and_o comprehensive_a duty_n the_o do_v of_o good_a concern_v which_o the_o text_n offer_v these_o five_o particular_n to_o our_o consideration_n i._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o which_o be_v call_v well_o do_v v_o 9_o and_o do_v good_a v._n 10._o ii_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o respect_n of_o its_o object_n which_o be_v all_o mankind_n let_v we_o do_v good_a unto_o all_o man_n especial_o unto_o they_o who_o be_v of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n iii_o the_o measure_n of_o it_o as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n iv._o our_o unwearied_a perseverance_n in_o it_o let_v we_o not_o be_v weary_a in_o well_o do_v v._o the_o argument_n and_o encouragement_n to_o it_o because_o in_o due_a season_n we_o shall_v reap_v if_o we_o faint_v not_o therefore_o as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n let_v we_o do_v good_a etc._n etc._n i._o i_o will_v consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o duty_n itself_o of_o well_o do_v and_o do_v good_a and_o this_o i_o shall_v explain_v to_o you_o as_o brief_o as_o i_o can_v by_o consider_v the_o extent_n of_o the_o act_n of_o do_v good_a and_o the_o excellency_n of_o it_o and_o 1._o the_o extent_n of_o the_o act._n it_o comprehend_v in_o it_o all_o those_o way_n wherein_o we_o may_v be_v beneficial_a and_o useful_a to_o one_o another_o it_o reach_v not_o only_o to_o the_o body_n of_o man_n but_o to_o their_o soul_n that_o better_a and_o more_o excellent_a part_n of_o ourselves_o and_o be_v conversant_a in_o all_o those_o way_n and_o kind_n whereby_o we_o may_v serve_v the_o temporal_a or_o spiritual_a good_a of_o our_o neighbour_n and_o promote_v either_o his_o present_a or_o his_o future_a and_o eternal_a happiness_n to_o instruct_v the_o ignorant_a or_o reduce_v those_o that_o be_v in_o error_n to_o turn_v the_o disobedient_a to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o just_a and_o reclaim_v those_o that_o be_v engage_v in_o any_o evil_a course_n by_o good_a counsel_n and_o seasonable_a admonition_n and_o by_o prudent_a and_o kind_a reproof_n to_o resolve_v and_o satisfy_v the_o doubt_a mind_n to_o confirm_v the_o weak_a to_o heal_v the_o brokenhearted_a and_o to_o comfort_v the_o melancholy_n and_o trouble_a spirit_n these_o be_v the_o noble_a way_n of_o charity_n because_o they_o be_v conversant_a about_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o tend_v to_o procure_v and_o promote_v their_o eternal_a felicity_n and_o then_o to_o feed_v the_o hungry_a to_o clothe_v the_o naked_a release_v the_o imprison_v to_o redeem_v the_o captive_n and_o to_o vindicate_v those_o who_o be_v injure_v and_o oppress_v in_o their_o person_n or_o estate_n or_o reputation_n to_o repair_v those_o who_o be_v ruin_v in_o their_o fortune_n and_o in_o a_o word_n to_o relieve_v and_o comfort_v those_o who_o be_v in_o any_o kind_n of_o calamity_n or_o distress_n all_o these_o be_v but_o the_o several_a branch_n and_o instance_n of_o this_o great_a duty_n here_o in_o the_o text_n of_o do_v good_a though_o it_o have_v in_o this_o place_n a_o more_o particular_a respect_n to_o the_o charitable_a supply_n of_o those_o who_o be_v in_o want_n and_o necessity_n and_o therefore_o with_o a_o more_o particular_a regard_n to_o that_o i_o shall_v discourse_n of_o it_o at_o this_o time_n you_o see_v the_o extent_n of_o the_o duty_n we_o will_v in_o the_o 2._o place_n brief_o say_v something_o of_o the_o ecellency_n of_o it_o which_o will_v appear_v if_o we_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v the_o imitation_n of_o the_o high_a excellency_n and_o perfection_n to_o do_v good_a be_v to_o be_v like_o god_n who_o be_v good_a and_o do_v good_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v like_a to_o he_o in_o that_o which_o he_o esteem_v his_o great_a glory_n it_o be_v to_o be_v like_o the_o son_n of_o god_n who_o when_o he_o be_v please_v to_o take_v our_o nature_n upon_o he_o and_o live_v here_o below_o and_o to_o dwell_v among_o we_o go_v about_o do_v good_a and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v like_o the_o bless_a angel_n the_o high_a rank_n and_o order_n of_o god_n creature_n who_o great_a employment_n it_o be_v to_o be_v minister_a spirit_n for_o the_o good_a of_o men._n so_o that_o for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v kind_a and_o helpful_a and_o beneficial_a to_o other_o be_v to_o be_v a_o good_a angel_n and_o a_o saviour_n and_o a_o kind_n of_o god_n too_o it_o be_v a_o argument_n of_o a_o great_a and_o noble_a and_o generous_a mind_n to_o extend_v our_o thought_n and_o care_n to_o the_o concernment_n of_o other_o and_o to_o employ_v our_o interest_n and_o power_n and_o endeavour_n for_o their_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n whereas_o a_o low_a and_o mean_v and_o narrow_a spirit_n be_v contract_v and_o shrivel_a up_o within_o itself_o and_o care_n only_o for_o its_o own_o thing_n without_o any_o regard_n to_o the_o good_a and_o happiness_n of_o other_o it_o be_v the_o most_o noble_a work_n in_o the_o world_n because_o that_o inclination_n of_o mind_n which_o prompt_v we_o to_o do_v good_a be_v the_o very_a temper_n and_o disposition_n of_o happiness_n solomon_n after_o all_o his_o experience_n of_o worldly_a greatness_n and_o pleasure_n at_o last_o pitch_v upon_o this_o as_o the_o great_a felicity_n of_o humane_a life_n and_o the_o only_a good_a use_n that_o be_v to_o be_v make_v of_o a_o prosperous_a and_o plentiful_a fortune_n eccles_n 3.12_o i_o know_v say_v he_o speak_v of_o riches_n that_o there_o be_v no_o good_a in_o they_o but_o for_o a_o man_n to_o rejoice_v and_o do_v good_a in_o his_o life_n and_o certain_o the_o best_a way_n to_o take_v joy_n in_o a_o estate_n be_v to_o do_v good_a with_o it_o and_o a_o great_a and_o wise_a than_o solomon_n have_v say_v it_o even_o he_o who_o be_v the_o power_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n have_v say_v it_o that_o it_o be_v a_o more_o bless_a thing_n to_o give_v than_o to_o receive_v consider_v far_o that_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a and_o substantial_a part_n of_o religion_n and_o next_o to_o the_o love_n and_o honour_n which_o we_o pay_v to_o almighty_a god_n the_o most_o acceptable_a service_n that_o we_o can_v do_v to_o he_o it_o be_v one_o table_n of_o the_o law_n and_o next_o the_o first_o and_o great_a commandment_n of_o love_v the_o lord_n our_o god_n and_o very_o
because_o it_o be_v no_o fault_n of_o they_o that_o we_o do_v not_o know_v they_o no_o their_o want_n may_v be_v real_a notwithstanding_o that_o especial_o when_o their_o extremity_n seem_v great_a we_o ought_v not_o to_o stand_v upon_o too_o rigorous_a a_o proof_n and_o evidence_n of_o it_o but_o shall_v accept_v of_o a_o fair_a probability_n seven_o those_o who_o suffer_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n and_o be_v strip_v of_o all_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o it_o aught_o to_o have_v a_o great_a precedence_n in_o our_o charity_n to_o most_o other_o case_n and_o this_o of_o late_o have_v be_v and_o still_o be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o among_o we_o who_o have_v flee_v hither_o for_o refuge_n from_o the_o tyranny_n and_o cruelty_n of_o their_o persecutor_n and_o have_v be_v by_o a_o most_o extraordinary_a charity_n of_o the_o whole_a nation_n more_o than_o once_o extend_v to_o they_o most_o seasonable_o relieve_v but_o especial_o by_o the_o bounty_n of_o this_o great_a city_n who_o liberality_n upon_o these_o occasion_n have_v be_v beyond_o all_o example_n and_o even_o all_o belief_n and_o i_o have_v often_o think_v that_o this_o very_a thing_n next_o to_o the_o mercy_n and_o goodness_n of_o almighty_a god_n have_v have_v a_o particular_a influence_n upon_o our_o preservation_n and_o deliverance_n from_o those_o terrible_a calamity_n which_o be_v just_o ready_a to_o break_v in_o upon_o we_o and_o be_v we_o not_o so_o stupid_o insensible_a of_o this_o great_a deliverance_n which_o god_n have_v wrought_v for_o we_o and_o so_o horrible_o unthankful_a to_o he_o and_o to_o the_o happy_a instrument_n of_o it_o may_v still_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o continue_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n to_o we_o and_o what_o cause_n have_v we_o to_o thank_v god_n who_o have_v allot_v to_o we_o this_o more_o bless_a and_o more_o merciful_a part_n to_o give_v and_o not_o to_o receive_v to_o be_v free_a from_o persecution_n ourselves_o that_o we_o may_v give_v refuge_n and_o relief_n to_o those_o that_o be_v persecute_v iii_o we_o must_v consider_v the_o measure_n of_o our_o charity_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o our_o translation_n render_v as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n other_o as_o we_o have_v ability_n so_o that_o this_o expression_n may_v refer_v either_o to_o the_o occasion_n of_o our_o charity_n or_o to_o the_o season_n of_o it_o or_o to_o the_o proportion_n and_o degree_n of_o it_o 1._o it_o may_v refer_v to_o the_o occasion_n of_o our_o charity_n as_o we_o have_v opportunity_n let_v we_o do_v good_a that_o be_v according_a as_o the_o occasion_n of_o do_v good_a shall_v present_v themselves_o to_o we_o so_o often_o as_o a_o opportunity_n be_v offer_v and_o this_o be_v a_o argument_n of_o a_o very_a good_a and_o charitable_a disposition_n glad_o to_o lay_v hold_n of_o the_o occasion_n of_o do_v good_a as_o it_o be_v to_o meet_v opportunity_n when_o they_o be_v a_o come_n towards_o we_o this_o forwardness_n of_o mind_n in_o the_o work_n of_o charity_n the_o apostle_n commend_v in_o the_o corinthian_n 2_o cor._n 9.2_o i_o know_v the_o forwardness_n of_o your_o mind_n for_o which_o i_o boast_v of_o you_o to_o they_o of_o macedonia_n and_o this_o he_o require_v of_o all_o christian_n tit._n 3.10_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v ready_a to_o every_o good_a work_n and_o 1_o tim._n 6.18_o that_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o distribute_v willing_a to_o communicate_v some_o be_v very_o ready_a to_o decline_v these_o opportunity_n and_o to_o get_v out_o of_o the_o way_n of_o they_o and_o when_o they_o thrust_v themselves_o upon_o they_o and_o they_o can_v avoid_v they_o they_o do_v what_o they_o do_v grudge_o and_o not_o with_o a_o willing_a mind_n 2._o it_o may_v refer_v to_o the_o season_n of_o this_o duty_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d while_o we_o have_v time_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d for_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d whilst_o this_o life_n last_v so_o grotius_n do_v understand_v and_o interpret_v this_o phrase_n and_o then_o the_o apostle_n do_v hereby_o intimate_v to_o they_o the_o uncertainty_n of_o their_o life_n especial_o in_o those_o time_n of_o persecution_n and_o this_o consideration_n hold_v in_o all_o time_n in_o some_o degree_n that_o our_o life_n be_v short_a and_o uncertain_a that_o it_o be_v but_o a_o little_a while_n that_o we_o can_v serve_v god_n in_o this_o kind_n namely_o while_o we_o be_v in_o this_o world_n in_o this_o vale_n of_o misery_n and_o want_v in_o the_o next_o world_n there_o will_v be_v no_o occasion_n no_o opportunity_n for_o it_o we_o shall_v then_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v but_o to_o reap_v the_o reward_n of_o the_o good_a we_o have_v do_v in_o this_o life_n and_o to_o receive_v that_o bless_a sentence_n from_o the_o mouth_n of_o the_o great_a judge_n of_o the_o world_n come_v you_o bless_v of_o my_o father_n inherit_v the_o kingdom_n prepare_v for_o you_o before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n for_o i_o be_v hungry_a and_o you_o give_v i_o to_o eat_v etc._n etc._n and_o euge_fw-la bene_fw-la serve_v well_o do_v good_a and_o faithful_a servant_n thou_o have_v be_v faithful_a in_o a_o little_a and_o i_o will_v make_v thou_o ruler_n over_o much_o god_n will_v then_o declare_v his_o bounty_n and_o goodness_n to_o we_o and_o open_v those_o inexhaustible_a treasure_n of_o glory_n and_o happiness_n which_o all_o good_a man_n shall_v partake_v of_o in_o proportion_n to_o the_o good_a which_o they_o have_v do_v in_o this_o world_n or_o else_o 3._o which_o i_o take_v to_o be_v the_o most_o probable_a meaning_n of_o this_o phrase_n it_o may_v refer_v to_o the_o degree_n of_o this_o duty_n in_o proportion_n to_o our_o ability_n and_o estate_n as_o we_o have_v ability_n let_v we_o do_v good_a unto_o all_o men._n and_o this_o the_o phrase_n will_v bear_v as_o learned_a man_n have_v observe_v and_o it_o be_v very_o reasonable_a to_o take_v in_o this_o sense_n at_o least_o as_o part_v of_o the_o meaning_n of_o it_o either_o express_v or_o imply_v for_o without_o this_o we_o can_v exercise_v charity_n though_o there_o be_v never_o so_o many_o occasion_n for_o it_o and_o then_o this_o precept_n will_v be_v of_o the_o same_o importance_n with_o that_o of_o the_o son_n of_o sirach_n ecclus._n 35.10_o give_v unto_o the_o most_o high_a according_a as_o he_o have_v enrich_v thou_o and_o with_o that_o counsel_n tob._n 4.7_o give_v alm_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d according_a to_o thy_o substance_n and_o 8._o v._n if_o thou_o have_v abundance_n give_v alm_n according_o and_o this_o may_v be_v reasonable_o expect_v from_o we_o for_o wherever_o his_o providence_n give_v a_o man_n a_o estate_n it_o be_v but_o in_o trust_n for_o certain_a uses_n and_o purpose_v among_o which_o charity_n and_o alms_n be_v the_o chief_a and_o we_o must_v be_v accountable_a to_o he_o whether_o we_o have_v dispose_v it_o faithful_o to_o the_o end_n for_o which_o it_o be_v commit_v to_o we_o it_o be_v a_o easy_a thing_n with_o he_o to_o level_v man_n estate_n and_o to_o give_v every_o man_n a_o competency_n but_o he_o do_v on_o purpose_n suffer_v thing_n to_o be_v distribute_v so_o unequal_o to_o try_v and_o exercise_v the_o virtue_n of_o man_n in_o several_a way_n the_o faith_n and_o patience_n of_o the_o poor_a the_o contentedness_n of_o those_o in_o a_o middle_a condition_n the_o charity_n and_o bounty_n of_o the_o rich._n and_o in_o truth_n wealth_n and_o riches_n that_o be_v a_o estate_n above_o what_o suffice_v our_o real_a occasion_n and_o necessity_n be_v in_o no_o other_o sense_n a_o blessing_n than_o as_o it_o be_v a_o opportunity_n put_v into_o our_o hand_n by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n of_o do_v more_o good_a and_o if_o we_o do_v not_o faithful_o employ_v it_o to_o this_o end_n it_o be_v but_o a_o temptation_n and_o a_o snare_n and_o the_o rust_n of_o our_o silver_n and_o our_o gold_n will_v be_v a_o witness_n against_o we_o and_o we_o do_v but_o heap_v up_o treasure_n together_o against_o the_o last_o day_n but_o what_o proportion_n our_o charity_n ought_v to_o bear_v to_o our_o estate_n i_o shall_v not_o undertake_v to_o determine_v the_o circumstance_n of_o man_n have_v too_o much_o variety_n in_o they_o to_o admit_v of_o any_o certain_a rule_n some_o may_v do_v well_o and_o other_o may_v do_v better_a every_o man_n as_o god_n have_v put_v into_o his_o heart_n and_o according_a to_o his_o belief_n of_o the_o recompense_n which_o shall_v be_v make_v at_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o just_a i_o shall_v only_o say_v in_o general_a that_o if_o there_o be_v first_o a_o free_a and_o willing_a mind_n that_o will_v make_v a_o man_n charitable_a to_o his_o power_n for_o the_o liberal_a man_n will_v devise_v liberal_a thing_n and_o we_o can_v propose_v a_o better_a pattern_n to_o ourselves_o in_o
be_v come_v to_o understand_v thing_n as_o they_o true_o be_v and_o not_o in_o a_o riddle_n and_o darkness_n as_o we_o now_o do_v then_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n will_v break_v forth_o as_o the_o light_n and_o the_o righteousness_n of_o all_o his_o deal_n as_o the_o noon_n day_n than_o all_o the_o riddle_n of_o providence_n will_v be_v clear_o expound_v to_o we_o and_o we_o shall_v see_v a_o plain_a reason_n for_o all_o those_o dispensation_n which_o we_o be_v so_o much_o stumble_v at_o and_o acknowledge_v the_o great_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o they_o you_o see_v then_o what_o reason_n there_o be_v to_o refer_v ourselves_o to_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o to_o cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o he_o to_o trust_v he_o with_o the_o administration_n and_o disposal_n of_o all_o our_o concernment_n and_o firm_o to_o believe_v that_o if_o we_o love_v god_n and_o be_v careful_a to_o please_v he_o every_o thing_n in_o the_o issue_n will_v turn_v to_o the_o best_a for_o we_o and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v not_o anxious_o trouble_v ourselves_o about_o the_o event_n of_o thing_n but_o resign_v up_o ourselves_o to_o the_o good_a pleasure_n of_o he_o who_o dispose_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o his_o will_n entire_o trust_v in_o his_o goodness_n and_o in_o his_o fatherly_a care_n of_o we_o and_o affection_n to_o we_o that_o he_o will_v order_v all_o thing_n for_o we_o for_o the_o best_a refer_v the_o success_n of_o all_o our_o concernment_n to_o he_o in_o who_o hand_n be_v all_o the_o way_n of_o the_o child_n of_o man_n cheerful_o submit_v to_o his_o determination_n and_o the_o declaration_n of_o his_o providence_n in_o every_o case_n and_o this_o be_v a_o proper_a expression_n of_o our_o confidence_n in_o god_n wisdom_n and_o goodness_n to_o refer_v thing_n to_o he_o before_o the_o event_n and_o to_o say_v with_o the_o christian_n act_n 21.14_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v do_v because_o this_o show_n that_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o god_n will_v do_v better_o for_o we_o than_o our_o own_o counsel_n and_o choice_n and_o to_o submit_v to_o his_o will_n after_o the_o event_n be_v likewise_o a_o great_a instance_n of_o our_o confidence_n in_o he_o and_o that_o we_o believe_v that_o he_o have_v do_v that_o which_o be_v best_a for_o when_o god_n by_o his_o providence_n declare_v his_o will_n in_o any_o case_n we_o shall_v look_v upon_o it_o as_o the_o sentence_n of_o a_o wise_a and_o just_a judge_n in_o which_o all_o party_n concern_v aught_o to_o acquiesce_v and_o rest_v full_o satisfy_v and_o this_o may_v well_o be_v expect_v from_o we_o christian_n who_o have_v much_o great_a assurance_n of_o the_o particular_a providence_n of_o god_n than_o the_o heathen_a have_v and_o yet_o some_o of_o they_o be_v able_a to_o free_v themselves_o from_o all_o trouble_n and_o anxiety_n from_o murmur_v and_o discontent_a upon_o this_o consideration_n epictetus_n as_o arrian_n tell_v we_o will_v express_v himself_o thus_o i_o have_v always_o rather_o have_v that_o which_o happen_v because_o i_o esteem_v that_o better_a which_o god_n will_v than_o that_o which_o i_o shall_v will_v and_o again_o lift_v up_o thy_o eye_n say_v he_o with_o confidence_n to_o god_n and_o say_v henceforth_o lord_n deal_v with_o i_o as_o thou_o please_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i_o be_o of_o the_o same_o opinion_n with_o thou_o just_a of_o the_o same_o mind_n that_o thou_o be_v i_o refuse_v nothing_o that_o seem_v good_a to_o thou_o lead_v i_o where_o thou_o will_v clothe_v i_o with_o what_o garment_n thou_o please_v set_v i_o in_o a_o public_a place_n or_o keep_v i_o in_o a_o private_a condition_n continue_v i_o in_o my_o own_o country_n or_o banish_v i_o from_o it_o bestow_v wealth_n upon_o i_o or_o leave_v i_o to_o conflict_n and_o struggle_v with_o poverty_n which_o of_o these_o thou_o please_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d if_o man_n shall_v censure_v this_o providence_n towards_o i_o and_o say_v thou_o deal_v hardly_o with_o i_o i_o will_v apologise_v for_o thou_o i_o will_v undertake_v and_o maintain_v thy_o cause_n that_o what_o thou_o do_v be_v best_a for_o i_o what_o can_v a_o christian_a say_v more_o or_o better_o by_o way_n of_o resignation_n of_o himself_o to_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n it_o almost_o transport_v i_o to_o read_v such_o passage_n from_o a_o heathen_a especial_o if_o we_o consider_v in_o what_o condition_n epictetus_n be_v he_o have_v a_o maim_a and_o deform_a body_n be_v in_o the_o extremity_n of_o poverty_n a_o slave_n and_o very_o cruel_o and_o tyranical_o use_v so_o that_o we_o can_v hardly_o imagine_v a_o man_n in_o worse_a and_o more_o wretched_a circumstance_n and_o yet_o he_o justify_v the_o providence_n of_o god_n in_o all_o this_o and_o not_o only_o submit_v to_o his_o condition_n but_o be_v content_v with_o it_o and_o embrace_v it_o and_o since_o god_n have_v think_v it_o fit_a and_o best_a for_o he_o he_o be_v of_o the_o same_o mind_n and_o think_v so_o too_o i_o confess_v it_o do_v not_o move_v i_o to_o hear_v seneca_n who_o flow_v in_o wealth_n and_o live_v at_o ease_n to_o talk_v magnificent_o and_o to_o slight_a poverty_n and_o pain_n as_o not_o worthy_a the_o name_n of_o evil_a and_o trouble_n but_o to_o see_v this_o poor_a man_n in_o the_o low_a condition_n and_o worst_a circumstance_n of_o humanity_n bear_v up_o so_o brave_o and_o with_o such_o a_o cheerfulness_n and_o serenity_n of_o mind_n to_o entertain_v his_o hard_a fortune_n and_o this_o not_o out_o of_o stupidity_n but_o from_o a_o wise_a sense_n of_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n and_o a_o firm_a persuasion_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o all_o his_o deal_n this_o who_o can_v choose_v but_o be_v affect_v with_o it_o as_o a_o admirable_a temper_n for_o a_o christian_a much_o more_o for_o a_o heathen_a to_o which_o we_o may_v apply_v that_o say_n of_o our_o lord_n concern_v the_o heathen_a centurion_n very_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o i_o have_v not_o find_v so_o great_a faith_n no_o not_o in_o israel_n so_o wise_a so_o equal_a so_o firm_a a_o temper_n of_o mind_n be_v seldom_o to_o be_v find_v no_o not_o among_o christian_n and_o this_o be_v the_o first_o consideration_n that_o if_o god_n care_v for_o we_o we_o and_o our_o concernment_n be_v in_o the_o best_a and_o safe_a hand_n and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v cast_v all_o our_o care_n upon_o god_n the_o 2._o be_v because_o all_o our_o anxiety_n and_o care_n will_v do_v we_o no_o good_a on_o the_o contrary_a it_o will_v certain_o do_v we_o hurt_v we_o may_v fret_v and_o vex_v our_o own_o spirit_n and_o make_v they_o restless_a in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o evil_n and_o disappointment_n which_o we_o be_v afraid_a of_o and_o may_v make_v our_o life_n miserable_a in_o the_o sad_a reflection_n of_o our_o own_o thought_n but_o we_o can_v by_o all_o our_o anxiety_n and_o care_n control_v the_o course_n of_o thing_n and_o alter_v the_o design_n of_o providence_n we_o can_v by_o all_o our_o vexation_n and_o trouble_n over-rule_v event_n and_o make_v thing_n happen_v as_o we_o will_v have_v they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o argument_n our_o saviour_n use_v to_o this_o very_a purpose_n mat._n 6.27_o which_o of_o you_o by_o take_v thought_n can_v add_v one_o cubit_n to_o his_o stature_n so_o that_o all_o this_o trouble_n be_v unreasonable_a and_o to_o no_o purpose_n because_o it_o have_v no_o influence_n upon_o the_o event_n either_o to_o promote_v or_o hinder_v it_o thing_n be_v govern_v and_o dispose_v by_o a_o high_a hand_n and_o place_v out_o of_o our_o reach_n we_o may_v deliberate_v and_o contrive_v and_o use_v our_o best_a endeavour_n for_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o design_n but_o we_o can_v secure_v the_o event_n against_o a_o thousand_o interposition_n of_o divine_a providence_n which_o we_o can_v neither_o foresee_v nor_o hinder_v but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o these_o our_o endeavour_n be_v reasonable_a because_o they_o be_v the_o ordinary_a mean_n which_o god_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o procure_n of_o good_a and_o prevention_n of_o evil_a and_o though_o they_o may_v miscarry_v yet_o they_o be_v all_o we_o can_v do_v but_o after_o this_o be_v do_v trouble_n and_o anxiety_n about_o the_o event_n be_v the_o vain_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n because_o it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n nor_o do_v at_o all_o conduce_v to_o what_o we_o desire_v we_o disquiet_v ourselves_o in_o vain_a and_o we_o distrust_v god_n providence_n and_o care_n of_o we_o and_o thereby_o provoke_v he_o to_o defeat_v and_o disappoint_v we_o let_v we_o then_o by_o these_o consideration_n be_v persuade_v to_o this_o duty_n the_o practice_n whereof_o be_v of_o continual_a and_o universal_a use_n in_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o our_o life_n in_o all_o