were for me an infinite task Thus I have briefly gone through Popery I could say something also of Episcopacy But at present I shall pass it by And write briefly as my lines imply Of Gospel-worship by Scripture-warranty How Christ's Kingly and Priestly office is invaded Under pretence for Christ yet by Papist degraded Is taken notice of you see in my walk Next of Gospel-worship I 'le a little talk And consider it well as you pass by Gospel-truths by Faith rightly apply THE EPISTLE TO THE READER GOD hath shewed thee Micah 6.8 Man what 's good What to believe what to do is understood By Scripture what God requires of thee To do justly and to love Mercy free And to walk humbly with thy God see This in Scripture both high and low degree Thy Obedience must all self-denying be Luke 9.23 Because our Salvation is by Christ alone Rom. 3.24 free Justification John 1.12 Adoption and Sanctification Are all free unto us in our generation 1 John 3.1 Are the fruit of Christ's Purchase clear Rom. 6.4 6. Which in the Scriptures doth full appear Eph. 1.4 All Scripture is given by God's Inspiration Is profitable for Doctrine in Mens station For Reproof 2 Tim. 3.16 17. for Correction in Mens generation For Instruction in righteousness to Salvation That the Man of God may be perfect Throughly furnish'd to all good works compleat There 's nothing in Religion but is contain'd In Scripture Isa 8.20 and by Scripture maintain'd Should be Gal. 1.8 and not by Mens Tradition feign'd Which is vain Religion or Will-worship Mar. 7.7 see In this Book more clear Col. 2.18 23. search Scripture free The Apostle shews that all things may And ought to be sought in a Scripture way Rom. 15.4 Because Scriptures are sufficient for directation To make a Man wise unto Salvation 2 Tim. 3.15 To search Scriptures I have my self applyd The more John 5.39 because by many are laid aside Count them insignificant though not flatly deny'd By a light within and spirit of Pride Obad. 3.4 This is the Basis of all their arrogancy Brethren to those that for Tradition cry Jer. 9.13 14. Of this they boast have the Spirits guide 1 Cor. 2.10 And so learn'd pious Men as is imply'd And Scripture-knowledge also lay aside Prov. 13.13 They have the Spirit they cannot sin Luke 10.16 They cannot err in nothing herein 2 Thes 2.10 11 12. vers They cannot speak nor can they Pray But when the Spirit moves their way What should they do with natural Affection They are all Spirit still by reflection Scripture as a Rule they cast by rejection Rom. 1.30 If heady high-minded 't is the Spirit 's inspection What may they not be carried to inherit By the imagination of the Spirit Yet don't mistake what my lines imply Col. 2.12 As though the Spirits operation I did deny No I do not but how shall we try The Spirit if the Scripture we pass by What rule to know whether be of God 1 Joh. 4.1 Or not but by the Scriptures standing-rod There is an excellent spirit or light within In every Man yet this light not sufficient herein Eph. 2.10 13. To attain Salvation this Scriptures record Jer. 10.23 God form'd a spirit in Man saith the Word Zech. 12.7 Which spirit is call'd the Candle of the Lord With this Spirit there is also the Law Prov. 20.27 Or substance of the first Covenant know Written or implanted in the heart Rom. 1.19 20. Of worst of Men yet they not depart From works of darkness but still sinning Yet the Word which was in the beginning With God and was God Joh. 1.1 to 5. consider'd as he By whom all things were made free And lighteth every one high or low degree That comes into the World therefore know By means of this Spirit Light or Law Mankind may know and perform in 's station Many things yet not in way of Salvation Gen. 3.17 The Law of Nature was before the fall Written in heart Eph. 4.18 but much obliterated in all By Adam's sin Jer. 31.33 32.40 therefore God promis'd to write It in the hearts of his People Scriptures recite So runs the tenor of the New Covenant I will give you my Spirit Scriptures grant Therefore of a natural light don't vaunt 'T is a new Spirit which we by Nature want 2 Cor. 3.5 All light within as of our selves recant God Almighty who is the original of light 1 Joh. 1.5 And God of Spirits made day and night By Christ his Spirits operation don't slight Joh. 1.3 Heb. 1.2 'T is the Spirit gives knowledge to understand Scripture 2 Cor. 3.6 as so to do God's Command Which Spirit the World cannot receive Neither can any natural Men believe Whilst in a natural state don't understand 1 Cor. 2.14 As to do the things of God's Command There 's an insufficiency as Scriptures speak In the Light within Rom. 8.3 or Law being weak Therefore God sent his Son to redeem us From sin Gal. 4.4 5. and death and the laws Curse Which by light within or natural course We could not do but should grow worse Abhorâ— that curs'd Doctrine Rom. 12.9 say what Men can Of an inherent legal Righteousness in Man 1 Cor. 4.7 Denying the imputed Righteousness of Christ Who to reconcile us to God was Priest Rom. 5.10 To dye shed his ' most precious Blood Which by a legal Righteousness is withstood Yet none can be justifi'd Joh. 14.6 cleans'd or sav'd Without Christ Act. 4.12 Man by sin is so deprav'd Which if Man could Salvation attain By inherent Righteousness Gal. 2.21 Christ dy'd in vain For if by works of Righteousness done By us Tit. 3.5 could attain Salvation as we run Then there was no need of Christ the Son To dye if by walking up to light within We should be cleansed from all sin 1 Joh. 1.7 9. Lead into all truth and eternally sav'd What need was then of a Jesus crav'd Rom. 5.8 To fulfill the Righteousness of the Law Heb. 9.28 And shed his precious blood here below To do so for us 1 Pet. 1.18 19. if Righteousness I say again Came by the Law Christ is dead in vain Gal. 2.21 This is a wicked Maxim I say it plain Though self-righteousness be coasting With many and so entertain boasting Jam. 4.16 Which is excluded by the Law of Faith Rom. 3.27 By Grace we are saved the Scripture saith Eph. 2.8 There is no other way unto salvation But by Christ alone saith Scripture-revelation Act. 4.12 Cast off filthy raggs of self-righteousness Job 15.16 run To Christ by Faith or for ever undone Isa 64.6 Respect Morality in way of sanctification Zech. 3.4 But count it
ENGLAND'S Faithful MONITOR Being the WORKS of that Suffering Protestant Mr. STEPHEN HVSNANCE when under Exile and Confinement in the Years 1685. and 1686. Wherein Popery is briefly demonstrated To be a Wicked Religion by Scripture stated As Mass Popish Pardons and Purgatory Praying to Angels Popish Penance a Story Worshipping Images and Merits may see In this book are wicked in every degree The Fundamentals of Religion are debated And the Protestant Religion vindicated Many Gospel Truths this Book doth open I believed and therefore have I spoken PSAL. 116.10 I will go in the Strength of the Lord I will make mention as Scriptures record Of the Righteousness of Christ alone By Faith without which Salvation none PSAL. 71.16 Gospel Worship by Scripture I avow By 's Grace who taught me first to plow. ISA. 28.6 Here is Englands Faithful Monitor Would have all men their Sin abhor By Repentance and real Reformation Now under Gods wonderfull Dispensation Here 's Scripture Truth drawn in one Chain Tells all unconverted must be born again Many Extreams and Objections disputed Gospel Truths cleared and Errors refuted Wherein Christ is exalted to that degree Without Interest in Christ none saved be How to do Duty but rest on none For Salvation but on CHRIST alone Written by a poor Suffering Protestant By Grave knows how to abound and want First written for Comfort of my Souls Ends Now much inlarg'd by Importunity of Friends LONDON Printed for the Authour 1689. THE EPISTLE DEDICATORY To his Honoured and most Worthy Friend Major Manly SIR SVch Impulsions I within me at present feel In which I admire God's providential Wheel Ezek. 10.13 In seeing God's goodness in your preservation When under Exile from your native Nation Rev. 1.9 And being prohibited by a Proclamation Also the great trouble had in your station Standing for the welfare of the Nation Your judicious understanding Sir 1 Cor. 10.15 in relation Vnto State Affairs and virtuous Inclination For Gospel-religion Sir in your generation I have made unto your Worship this Dedication Hoping your Clemency Sir will you excite To accept of as it were Sir a Widdows Mite Mar. 12.42 Oh may it do good in this wicked generation That Men may see their great abomination Of all sorts of wickedness in the Nation Ezek. 14.6 And repent of them by real Reformation Vnder this God's wonderful Dispensation Before God's wrath fall or desolation feel Admire God's Works of wonder Ezek. 1.20 and cry O Wheel God's rod is now Sir hovering over us Foundations of the Earth are out of course And without Reformation it will be worse Psal 82.5 In England for wickedness is little remorse I fear and tremble Sir the storm is not past Sin will cause on all Attempts a blast Though Popery now go out o' th' Land amain Yet Joh. 4.20 Sir if we old Customs still retain And don 't from superstitious Worship refrain It will provoke God to bring Popery again Mat. 23.32 Mercy and Judgments calls England repent But instead of it murmuring and discontent What a Chaos of Confusion we are under At present consider England's sins 't is no wonder Many dangers and fears Sir lye upon us Yet Sir I tell you it may be worse Observe this Dispensation Mat. 24.10 though peace be intended Yet how many in the Nation are offended Many are for Onyons and Garlick of Aegypt Psa 106.14 15. Will-worship 'till God lash us with his VVhip Oh when will England's eyes be open say I This unto us Sir the Scriptures descry Before Christ's coming the Moon and the Sun Joel 3.15 Shall be darkened the Stars also as they run Shall withdraw their light Act. 2.20 as though done For the Lord will roar out of Sion Vtter his Voice from Jerusalem like a Lyon Joel 3.16 The Heavens and the Earth shall shake Did not Bishops and Priests lately quake Isa 33.1 God will shake also e're long Sea and Land That is will move all Nations understand From the highest to the lowest deem'd Hag. 2.7 Kings and Beggars to Christ all one esteem'd Not only Earth will shake Temporal power But Heaven Ecclesistical in that hour Once more signifieth not only shaking Heb. 12.26 27. But the removing things of Mens making Because all these were made with hands By power and authority of Mens Commands And Inventions then they will see plain How they have worshipped God in vain Mar. 7.7 But those things which must remain Are from God not to be shaken once again For Christ will his Truth still maintain Will destroy all that don't desire his reign Luke 19.27 God hath lifted up now his powerful hand Against such who will not yet understand His way of Worship behold now England How hath God wrought for us without delays Isa 26.10 11.12 And Curs'd all Men of corrupt ways This is God's end that England should feel Acknowledge God's overruling providential Wheel There is a Curse to all that don't understand Or consider the operation of Jehovah's hand Isa 5.12 How hath God Sir wicked Men withstood Who design'd Protestants lives and blood Who had been in blood before now involv'd Had not God in mercy their Plots dissolv'd This is the Lords doing Sir in our dayes Psal 118.23 And should be marvellous in our eyes God calls now aloud not only by his VVord But also his VVorks of wonder now record A Summons to give God glory Psal 96.7 8. as doth appear Both by works of Mercy and Justice clear Many a time his anger hath turned away From us hath not Sir unto this day Made a full end of us even when we Highly provok'd God in such a degree So to to do Psal 82.5 Oh let 's not now in sin grow worse Though the VVorld and Men are out of course God's Throne is in Darkness Scripture saith VVhich to us is the only Rule of Faith. God's VVheels of Providence in their race Are very difficult Psal 145.3 Sir for us to trace And find out let 's admire his Free-grace For Gospel-liberty we had every place Let us admire now God's VVorks of wonder In guiding the King we did live under Prov. 21.1 By inclining the King's Heart to a Talleration So to enjoy Gospel-liberty in the Nation 'Till this Psal 82.1 Jehovah's wonderful Dispensation God over-rules Men Sir in their generation Beyond Mens Designs 86.10 and their Intention God is God alone as the Scriptures mention VVho would have said Sir under that storm The other Year we should enjoy such a Calm Blessed be God for his refreshing Balm By the Prince of Orange in the Nation Jer. 51.28 29 30 37. VVhom the Lord hath call'd by his Dispensation To be King of England in his generation To work I hope England's Reformation And so prevent England's Desolation I hope King William Sir will be instrumental Chief under Christ of great
in Conversation Woe unto the Bishops and Priests of the land When God shall say Is this my Command Who hath required this at your hand Isa 1.9 How Prophane are Priests in the Nation To all wicked men officiate Administration How corrupt with the Pope's pollution Few of them keep to Christ's Institution But Administer unto all none exempt So bring the Ordinance into contempt How carelesly and promiscuously admit Rev. 2.2 Before they are by Examination fit Contrary to Scriptures which you may see If you please to search the Scriptures free The Ordinance refresheth the soul of Faith Rom. 14.23 But to the wicked Damnation Scripture saith According to Christ's Institution 't is good Yet Bread and Wine are not Christ's blood Nor is Christ in or under them as Papist list 'T is by Faith alone we receive Christ Eph. 3.17 Christ's Death by Believers is highly priz'd Christ our Passover for us is sacrific'd 1 Cor. 5.7 8. Hate Mass that by wicked Men was devis'd Purge the old leaven sin and keep the feast Not with wicked Mass as doth the Beast And her followers all both age and youth Let us with unleavened Bread sincere truth Purge therefore the old leaven be you new That Christ by Faith may dwell in you Christ as the only Mediator was crucify'd To reconcile us in him Justice is fully satisfi'd No need Mass Christ the alone Propitiation 1 Joh. 2.1 2. On Christ alone will I depend for Salvation Col 1.14 'T is by his Blood my Soul is cleans'd is eas'd Because God said In him I am well pleas'd Mat. 17.5 SECT VI. Concerning Purgatory POpery once again I here call to mind In opposition to Popery I have more behind Papists hold a middle and infernal place Where Souls suffer without Money a sad Case And 't is a cunning Artifice to get Money by For if you are rich and like to dye Then to a Mass-priest your selves apply He will Pray you out of Purgatory If you have Faith to believe his story But his Prayer never brings thee to glory For consider what Scriptures unto us tell Luke 16.23 At Death the Souls of wicked go to Hell Immediately the rich Man mind it well In Hell lift up his eyes he did not dwell In Purgatory his Condition sad for alas In those days were no Priests to say Mass Though Satans subtilty in wickedness was great Yet then to get Money had not this feat His Sons the Popes did since this compleat So Money get and many Souls they cheat See then Mar. 11.22 and understand these things plain Their feigned Purgatory is only for gain For without Money there the Poor may lye Not a Prayer for them see their Charity For want of Money they in Purgatory frye But for their Comfort a Purgatory is none say I. 'T is true there is in this life a Purgation That is 1 Joh. 1.7 Jesus Christ's blood by renovation Must purge our Souls by Regeneration Christ's Blood must be apply'd by Faith's desire Whilst we live Heb. 9.14 11.6 or never after by fire When the wicked dye no place of Purgation Do they go into but Hells Damnation Don't be deluded with Purgatory in station Must be Converted if ever enjoy glorification Mat. 18.3 All Believers at Death when they dye Are carried into Heaven immediately By Christ's Mediation that Pearl of great price This day shalt be with me in Paradise Luk. 23.43 Purgatory you see then is Mens device For 't is clear Scriptures they don't tell Of a Purgatory between Heaven and Hell. No Reader don't deceive thy Soul For a Purgatory there is none at all Here 's a twofold Cheat what can be worse To deceive thy Soul and also thy Purse Here 's another thing which doth harden Men in sin Indulgences and Pope's Pardon Which frees Men from sin in God's sight This also a Cheat for Money makes Purse light Can Man forgive sin Luk. 7.49 a blasphemous story Here 's a Cheat for Money as is Purgatory This is that brings grist to the Pope's Mill 'T is diametrically opposite to Scripture still Which tells us Truth that there is none Can forgive sin but God in Christ alone By Indulgences wickedly invented by the Pope Men live in wickedness yet have false hope Live in all kind of sensuality Hell's road Gal. 5.19 20 21. vers Swearing Whoring Drunken sins are all-a-mode Why because they believe a Mass-Priest Can pardon them so live as they list As if Mass Holy Water by a Priest's Conjuration Did purge sin so live a wicked Conversation What need I care how I live if with a fee To a Mass-priest he can make me free I have read of one Martyr whom I honour In the Faith being brought before bloody Bonner Said Sir at first I was of your Faith But now I believe what Scripture saith Not a Priest which did in sin me harden Car'd not how I liv'd because had a Pardon Of a Mass-priest for Money Isa 6.16 but now I cry None can forgive sin but the holy Deity SECT VII Popish Pennance HEre I will joyn Popish Satisfaction By Pennance which is also a wicked detraction From Christ's Merits if by Whipping Fasting we Satisfie God's Justice in our own Persons see What Papists count Jesus Christ to be Christ's Merits by Papists excommunicated Yet Christ's alone Satisfaction in Scripture stated By the travel of his Soul God is satisfy'd Isa 53.11 Which by Popish Pennance is wickedly deny'd Christ made an end of sin Heb. 10.14 by Faith apply'd By one Sacrifice perfected them are sanctify'd For Believers obtain'd an eternal Redemption Heb. 9.12 Are Pardoned Justified without exemption By Christ alone we have Favour with God Sin made us Enemies wicked vile and odd Alas Col. 1.21 Confession of sin is not Satisfaction Our best Duties are tainted with putrefaction Of sin our Repentance Confession Humiliation Are tainted with Hypocrisie and Dissimulation 1 John 1.8 Sin can't satisfie for 't is clear in reason No more than a Traytor if Confess his Treason Our mourning for sin Praying for Pardon And strength against sin should not harden In sin our striving for mortification Are quite other things than Satisfaction Whatever we offer to God for acceptation Heb. 7.25 'T is through Christ's Intercession and Mediation This is a sure Rule and Foundation-stone That God's Justice is satisfy'd by Christ alone For all Believers then like Christ there 's none For Man's sin God's Justice would admit No other satisfaction Mat. 17.5 this Point don't forget And this must be apply'd by Faith alone Act. 4.12 And this the Papist can't abide to own They to the Virgin Mary themselves apply For Intercession and on Saints also rely As Mediators with Christ 1 Tim 2.5 Oh Blasphemy As if Christ blessed for ever needed Coadjutors Which is a Blasphemy my Soul abhorrs 'T is lifting up
Christ 2 Cor. 6.20 you are not your own You are bought Christ sits on his Throne Hath purchas'd you commands Obedience due Kings owe Obedience so well as you 1 Tim. 6.15 To Christ see in the Scripture true In all Obedience Scripture-way pursue Christ King of Kings Rev. 1.5 let all be subordinate To Christ else thy Obedience is abominate Obey higher Powers according to the Word Take heed it be for or in the Lord. 1 Sam. 12.24 Pray for the King and all in Authority Lord Convert all Unconverted Pray say I. 1 Tim. 2.1 2. Pray Pray in Faith let Prayer sound For much sin amongst the gods found Psal 94.5 6 97.7 Lately in Kings and Rulers on English ground Pray God would incline the King's heart That from Gospel-worship he not depart Pray he may rule for Christ compleat So may be William the good and great Pray earnestly in Faith I can't spare ye Pray for his Royal Consort Queen Mary Pray King and Queen so rule for God Not like the Assyrian who was his rod. Isa 10.5 Pray in Faith for God will no doubt By the King and Queen find great sins out Pray King William may be instrumental Chief under Christ of Babilon's fall Jer. 51.1 to the end Pray for King William and 's Queen say I again That they so rule whilst here remain That they Christ's instituted Worship maintain That in Heaven among Saints may reign Thus active and passive Obedience yield Unto higher Powers as spiritually skill'd 1 Pet. 2.19 20. And Christ thy King will win the field Pray that Christ may then be thy shield A little time Christ will come with majesty Isa 35.4 Then Tribes of the Earth mourn and cry Zech. 14.9 Repent be not found workers of Iniquity Jer. 23.6 Bring forth fruit to Holiness immediately Justice Truth Righteousness he 'l maintain Will destroy all those don't desire's reign Luk. 19.27 Christ King of Righteousness will sway Mat. 24.30 The Scepter his Name alone in that day Will be exalted Isa 2.17 therefore Watch and Pray That Christ Psal 10.16 blessed for ever would hast away The exaltation of Christ the Lord 1 Tim. 6.15 Alone as King the Scriptures record Which time draws near Mat. 24.33 Scriptures say And dispensations too Friends now a day Pulling down high things without delay And other things which Scriptures display Though the ball of Kingly Power men hurl Little consider Saints shall Judge the World. 1 Cor. 6.2 Yet this Comfort to Saints Scriptures record Shall execute Judgment of the Lord. Though Saints be here derided yet when try'd None shall be sav'd without they 're sanctifi'd 1 Pet. 1.2 Though here despised 1 Cor. 1.2 and wicked men inviron Saints with Malice yet shall bind with Iron Such honour on Scripture record remains Shall bind Kings and Nobles with Chains Psal 149.6 to the 9. Ver. But hold my lines here I would be mute Because at present this way I not dispute Thus have laid before you so brief as I can Concerning Obedience to God and Man 1 Sam. 12.14 Therefore take heed let thy Obedience run In 's proper channel Obey Christ or undone For no salvation without in Christ the Son. Let Obedience to God be of more esteem Than to Man 1 Pet. 1.18 19. Man could not us redeem Nor can all Worlds Kings though you cry To them do any good when come to dye Alas poor Creature Man shall be as grass Can 't help 's self into eternity pass Isa 51.12 Then obey God who hath you in 's power 1 Sam. 2.6 Can make happy or miserable in an hour SECT VI. COnsider those things 1 Cor. 10.15 not as from me But as from Scripture you may plainly see For I would not speak or write a letter Had I not Scripture-truth for the matter Isa 8.20 Having thus far proceeded without delay I will now briefly write of the Sabbath-day The Sabbath is God's standing rule or rod In which we ought to worship God 1 Cor. 14.33 In a more publick or solemn way Tender our homage to God without delay Which is not Commanded on every day God's resting the seventh remember pray Gen. 2.2 3. Remember keep holy the Sabbath-day Remember it as if Jehovah should say Exo. 20.8 Take it as a Memento in your generation Of my Providence in the Worlds Creation The seventh day was the Sabbath of old But under the Gospel the Scriptures unfold The first day of the Week Christians hold For the Sabbath and call'd the Lords-day Rev. 1.10 Which we have cause to remember I say In remembrance of Man's redemption By Jesus Christ who without exemption Or doubt on that day had his Resurrection Joh. 20.1 19. Which we should apply by Faith's reflection Believing Christ's rising from the dead On the first day lives for ever the Churches head Col. 1.18 First day is the Sabbath in Scripture clear Mar. 16.2 9. When Christ unto his Disciples did appear Also Disciples on the first day brake Bread Luk. 24.1 And Preached on that day in Scripture said Oh then remember and that without delay Acts 20.7 To keep it holy not by idle sinful play Break God's Command sin the Sabbath away Isa 56.2 4 6. Seeing the Sabbath is of divine Institution Do not prophane it by sinful pollution Be holy on the Sabbath 't is a holy day indeed By Gods standing Law 't is so decreed Without it Religion were a meer Confusion 1 Cor. 14.33 Although slighted by some under a Delusion Lam. 1.7 Yea how promiscuous would our Homage be To God if one day in seven were not free As a standing Rule and perpetual Decree Keep holy the Sabbath in Commemoration Of Christ's Resurrection 1 Cor. 1.30 who is our Salvation As you love your precious Souls by the way Remember to keep holy the Sabbath-day Isa 58.13 For wherever Religion doth flourish They an observation of the Sabbath cherish How careful have been in their station To keep holy the Sabbath Mat. 28.1 in Commemoration Of Christ's Resurrection in their generation Who is the only way unto Salvation Act. 4.12 Others where Religion is gone to decay Live loose to sin on the Sabbath-day You may see it plain in old England Few practically remember God's Command Oh remember by holy Contemplation Christ's rising from Death for our Salvation Remember to keep holy the Sabbath-day Exod. 31.15 pray 'T is your Seed-time your Market-day For your Souls consider and be casting We shall celebrate a Sabbath everlasting In Heaven with the holy Deity for ever and Sing Hallelujah Exo. 20.8 then remember God's Command SECT VII Obj. BUT is not every day a Sabbath some will say Sol. Unto Believers I answer by the way Every day should be a Sabbath from sin We should sin on no day
probability we Have no ground Acts 2.4 7. that they Disciples will be Of Christ Eph. 4.18 19. but rather Enemies we daily see Yet the Priest with 's Surplice Cross and Font Baptizeth and asketh the Infant upon 't Wilt be baptiz'd in the present Faith I will in the Childs Name the God-father saith Which is ridiculous to men of Reason Infants not capable of Faith at that season 1 Cor. 14.20 If they were how know they his mind They from consenting might be disinclin'd That Infants by Sureties believe and repent When capable of neither is impertinent Yet see in our days 't is plain how frequent Most are for Baptism yet no rule appears In the Scriptures 1 Cor. 11.16 nor for many years Since the Apostles time as some write Of the ancient Fathers whom I could recite Then those Ceremonies in all their scope Were introduc'd since rising of the Pope Oh how corrupt are Priests of the Land Are Surplice Lev. 19.19 sign of Cross Gods Command Paul glory'd in Christs Cross in his Heart Not the sign on 's Forehead that 's Papist art No Crosses us'd in the Apostles days Gal. 6.14 Nor Scripture pattern for such idle Plays No Crosses were us'd by the Apostles hand Nor any Example nor Scripture Command Of Crosses there is made no mention In Baptism not in Scripture intention Those Crosses then are the Popes invention In Scripture no such custom understand Who then requir'd this at the Priests hand Isa 1.12 Must they not say our Master the Pope For no cammand in the Scripture scope Mat. 19.8 For such practices so Christ's sovereignty deny And with Inventions of Men comply Mat. 15.9 'T is a great dishonour to Christ and indignity To use that in his Worship is meer Idolatry Which Christ never instituted is from Popery As though Christ was not the only Law-giver Being Wisdoms fountain God blessed for ever Rom. 9.5 SECT XIV HAving written of breaking Bread before As Christ's Ordinance I shall say no more At present 2 Tim. 2.14 but shall according to what I know Write briefly concerning the Moral Law. Obj. Some there are say in our Christian race We are not under the Law but under Grace Rom. 6.14 In the Gospel 't is very plainly stated That the Law by Jesus Christ is abrogated Sol. This would require more than I shall say At present only a word briefly by the way The liberty which Christ hath purchas'd know Is deliverance from the Curse of the Law Gal. 3.13 For Believers take heed what thoughts lurks 'T is deliverance from it as a Covenant of Works Rom. 7.6 Christ frees Believers from its malediction But not from the Moral Laws prescription Joh. 15.14 The Law was added to the Gospel by reflect Gal. 3.19 Not as a supplement to make up a defect But as an Instrument to prepare the way And discover our need of a Gospel-day The Law like John Baptist as Scriptures say With his Axe a way did make or increase Mat. 3.2 10. Before Christ Jesus the Brince of Peace The Law as a School-master Scripture saith To lead to Christ the object of saving Faith. Gal. 3.24 The Gospel is the Moral Law translated Christ being the substance of the Law stated In Scripture which you may plainly see Tit. 2.12 The 2d. of Titus 12 Verse will explain it t' ye Take heed of Hypocrisie Luc. 12.1 do as art able Duty to God and Man in both Table Live righteously and godly don't you part What God hath joyn'd let God have thy Heart Godly relates to Piety and Sanctification Righteousness relates to a moral qualification Joyn Piety to God and Morality together 2 Pet. 1.5 6 7. Where Grace is Moral Virtues don't sever These things involve and comprehend All the Law from beginning to the end Though briefly which is what I intend Christ hath made us free from its Curse Rom. 7.6 Not that in sin we should grow worse Christ saveth us from our Enemies hands To serve him Luc. 1.74 75. and obey his Commands Christ hath purchas'd for us Liberty to keep Not liberty to break the Law Rom. 6.20 22. and so sleep In sin as many do in our days we know And boast they are not under the Law No nor under the Gospel neither say I In way of salvation can't no Promise apply Heb. 12.14 By Christ Believers have liberty from sin Not a liberty to do evil and herein The Law in its place is good and just 'T was by the Law Paul did know Lust The Law shows how by sin we are deprav'd Rom. 7.7 That without Christ none can be sav'd The Law serves to humble us in our way Should drive us to Christ without delay The Law shows us our need of Christ Tells us we must not live as we lift Do this and live Rom. 10.5 the Law to us doth say Tells us when by sin we go astray The Law awakens Conscience and herein By the Law is the knowledge of sin The Law shews our impotency Rom. 7.7 so to be humble If we sin it makes our Conscience grumble Drives us to Christ and that without delay Who alone did fulfill the Law Col. 1.19 Scriptures say The Law given as a Rule of Life is so still Psal 19.7 Tells us what 's not and what is God's Will. What God forbids ought not to be done What God commands 't is Duty as we run Not to be justified by doing in our station Tit. 3.5 Let 's be holy as we can in our generation Yet without in Christ there 's no Salvation The Law is of no use in way of Justification Yet it points to the way of Sanctification The Scriptures establish the Law in its place Rom. 3.31 Yet Justification is by Christ's Free-Grace SECT XV. THE Law given to Adam by the Creator But to us in the hands of a Mediator Gal. 3.16 Believers not bound to its obligation As to its rigour that 's off by Christ's mitigation Having abollish'd all Rites and Ceremonies Of the Ceremonial Law by 's dying Sacrifice Christ hath blotted out the Scriptures say Col. 2.14 The hand-writing of the Law taken it away Consider this point Reader without delay Paul don't mean the Moral Law what then The Inventions and Commands of Men. Verse 22. From Levitical and Ceremonial Law are free By Christ who purchas'd this Freedom for we And so far as the Moral Law was against us Christ hath freed Believers from its Curse Took it out of the way and nail'd it to his Cross In point of Justification don't you touch Verse 21. Neither tast nor handle which is as much As though Paul had said Don't you depend On the Law in your aim and end As though you could in a legal way or station Fulfill the Law and so obtain Salvation If this be your aim
then you are undone There 's no Salvation but by Christ the Son. Do good Works as evidences of Salvation Mat. 7.16 17 20. By Fruit the Tree is known in his station Respect the Law as a spur to Sanctification Gal. 5 22. But count it dung in respect of Justification Phil. 3.8 Yea Paul himself as in Scripture plain Counteth all things loss that were gain Before his Conversion but then cryed he 'T is dung that in Christ I may found be Not having's own Righteousness Scripture faith But the Righteousness of Christ by Faith. Verse 9. Paul excludes the Law in Justification Yet owns it as a rule of Sanctification So the Moral Law is good in its place But not to Justifie Ephes 2.8 that is by Free-grace The end in giving the Law say all I can Was to humble the proud Heart of Man Who was pufft with self-conceited Pride What God Commands we will do Exo. 19.8 they cry'd As though able of themselves did impart When as to Performance they had no Heart Deut. 5.29 The Law in it self is but a literal story Cannot discover Christ in his glory Luk. 24.45 Let the Consideration of its rigour move To go unto Christ by Faith and Love. SECT XVI COnsider farther for I have more to say 'T is impossible for any in a legal way To keep the Law in way of Justification It was the Pharisees sin in their station Luk. 18.11 9. And I fear the sin of many in our Nation Many think to be Justifi'd by their Works Rom. 10.3 4. Such will be sav'd no more than Turks Others in their lives Law and Gospel deface Jer. 48.7 Live in all sin still Jam. 2.20 and cry Free-grace Some are for the Law in way of legality Others are of an Antinomian quality Full of extreams are Men in our days To destroy Souls Satan hath many ways 2 Cor. 2.11 So full of extreams is poor England Few in their Practice eye Christ's Command Many are for reading the Law in Churches As if that 's enough such baseness lurches In Men and Women as my lines impart Yet the Law not written in their Heart Jer. 31.33 Yet to have Moses read are still at strife Yet practise nothing of the Law in life Zealous for the Law like the Jews of old Joh. 5.42 Who did oppose Moses to Christ so bold They were for Moses in their station Slighted Jesus Christ who came for Salvation Is it not so with many in our Nation For they practise nothing in Conversation Of the Law in life therefore 't is but just The Law condemn them in whom they trust Verse 45. As Christ said to the Jews in Scripture see 'T is practice that makes the Law to be A Rule or leader unto Christ that we By Faith come to Christ who did us free From the Curse of the Law and also hath Delivered all Believers from eternal Wrath 1 Thes 1.10 Having Peace with God as Scripture saith Rom. 5.1 6.1 2. Being freely Justified in Christ by Faith Shall we sin then because Grace doth abound God forbid yet many such in England found Such baseness in many Mens Hearts there lurks Don't do Duty least under a Covenant of Works And instead of doing Works of the Covenant Live in all Uncleanness Lye Swear and Rant Say Christ dy'd for Sinners all 's done by Christ So take liberty to sin live as they list Sure these Men despise the riches of Grace Rom. 2.4 Not knowing God's goodness his Law deface They love darkness rather than light we see Which will their eternal Condemnation be Many are with shaddows of the Law affected Joh. 3.19 When the substance in their lives is neglected Many Men and Women own Christ high With their mouths when their lives say a lye Many in words profess Christ in the land Luk. 6.46 But Oh how few do Christ's Command He that will have Jesus a Saviour know Must also have respect unto his Law Psal 119.6 He is Jesus a Saviour only to those afford Obedience to him as their King and Lord. Heb. 5.9 Here 's point of distinction by the standing-rod He doth not Righteousness is not of God Others are for doing the Law in their station 1 Joh. 3.10 And rest in doing in their generation It was is so with the Jews to this day Are for the Law the Vail not taken away He is a Jew in spirit who alone can see The use of the Law in its proper degree And only own Christ his Saviour to be Rom. 2.28 29. To conclude this Head and consider what 's said Let the rigour of the Law make thee afraid Goe unto Christ live Holy without delay Secure thy Interest in Christ 2 Pet. 3.1 who is the way To Salvation 'till hast by Faith so done Art under the Law therefore to Christ run By Faith God is not pleas'd in any but 's Son 'Till in Christ art under the Law Mat. 17.4 yea worse Under it as a Covenant of Works a fearful Curse Therefore to Christ by Faith have recourse God will render all according to their deed Rouse Man Rev. 20.13 don't false Presumption breed Do according to the Law but rest on none For Salvation Joh. 14.6 but on Christ alone SECT XVII THus Reader I have lead thee by the hand Concerning the Law as I at present understand Wherein thou may'st understand and see The use of the Law in its proper degree Obj. But some may Object and say unto me Don't you say that Heaven by Christ is free Yet something must be done by we Sol. Nothing done in way of Merit God is just Is forsaking sin doing Rev. 15.3 would'st live in thy Lust By Grace are sav'd in point of Justification Gal. 5.16 Yet without Holiness no ground for Salvation 1 Pet. 2.11 Are not Justified by Works we have done Heb. 12.14 Justification is by the Merits of the Son. Tit. 3.5 God's giving Man's labouring don 't sever Free-grace and full Duty go together 2 Pet. 1.5 6 7. They are not an inconsistent station Free-grace full Duty work out Salvation With diligence with fear and trembling Phil. 2.12 Be in earnest with God cast off dissembling That Grace which bringeth to us Salvation Tit. 2.11 12. Teacheth us to deny in our station All ungodliness in our Conversation To live soberly and godly by renovation Here 's the fruit of Christ's purchase clear Tit. 2.14 Which in the Scriptures doth full appear Duties are a Believers Priviledge by Christ Not to neglect Duties when we list By Duties we honour God in Scripture see I will honour those that honour me 1 Sam. 2.30 A fruit-bearing Christian in his station Is a God-glorifying Creature in 's generation Joh. 15.8 A Believer Prays Father glorifie me That thy poor Creature may glorifie thee For what
wrath in Hell Dread and tremble Psal 90.11 no tongue can tell Then labour to know God in Christ and To do God's Will desire to understand 143.10 Darkness in thy Soul darkness in Hell Here 's but little comfort for thee to dwell Try the light within thee Mat. 6.23 lest it darkness be If that's Darkness Darkness is of great degree From Ignorance arise I wish thee as a friend Oh! Deut. 32.29 were you wise to consider your latter end SECT XXXII Say some Object Isa 8.20 you stand for what Scripture saith And hold it as the only rule of Faith. Doth Paul to the Thessalonians not say Hold fast the tradition in your way 2 Thes 2.15 Which have been taught whether by word Or our Epistle the Papists to this accord Sol. For their unwritten Fables and Tradition Hence would hold up their Superstition Altho' there were some Doctrines of Faith In matters of practice as History saith When Paul wrote this Epistle not found Expresly in writing in Scripture ground And been preach'd by the Apostles Yet Sir This will not in the very least inferr That now the Canon of Scripture deem'd Heb. 2.1 2 3. Is compleated Tradition should be esteem'd We are not to practise as Tradition saith But according to Scripture the rule of Faith Yea Paul himself to us doth unfold Let him be curs'd which is very bold Gal. 1.9 10. Yea if an Angel against Scripture hold Let him be accursed in Scripture see That tradition can be no Rule for we Unless according to Scripture it agree Some complain of the Scripture's obscurity Yet themselves in sin grown to maturity Yet very plain to any would sin fly Scripture saith shalt not commit Adultery Jam. 2.11 'T is plain he that believeth shall be saved He that believeth not is so deprav'd With Sin he shall be damn'd Mark 16.16 't is plain In Scripture therefore must be born again He that hath this hope or this Faith Purifies himself as God's pure Scripture saith 1 Joh. 3.3 'T is plain blessed are the pure in heart They shall see God from sin depart Mat. 5.8 Prov. 8.36 Heb. 12.14 He that sinneth wrongeth his own Soul These Scriptures are plain enough to all Some others the Scripture they disdain Because Truth in them is so plain Full of extremes are many in our days 2 Cor. 2.11 To destroy Souls Satan hath many Ways He that ordereth aright his Conversation Shall be sure to enjoy eternal Salvation Psal 50.23 Live according to the Gospel of Christ Jesus Let not Men's vain Tradition please us No Book like the Scripture in its Station Of Christianity Scripture is the foundation Christ for Man's Redemption was seal'd By the Father Joh. 6 27. only by the Scriptures reveal'd The Gospel declares glad tidings of Salvation Let 's love the Scriptures in our Generation Tho' written by divers Men in their station 2 Pet. 1.21 Yet concurr in one by the Spirit 's operation Tho' written by several Men yet all accord Under several dispensations yet the Word Tends to one thing to Holiness it doth afford As men guided by the Spirit of the Lord Who spake as moved by the Spirit still All there Prophecies have Mat. 24.34 35. and time will fulfil Man cannot certainly determine 't is decided Things future that are contingent if not guided By God's Spirit Scriptures harmonious intent Is against Sin to promote Holiness by one consent Therefore against Scripture the wicked bent The Drunkard knows 't is sin at least But Intemperance is worse than the Beast Psal 49.20 The voluptuous and unclean in 's Station Knows 't is sin to commit fornication Therefore love darkness Deeds being evil To hate Scripture is to please the Devil 'T is a delusory Spirit in Age or Youth Not to receive Scriptures in love 2 Thes 2. v. 10 11 12. as truth Some Custom and Tradition of old Fathers cry So the Rule the Scripture they pass by Others cry the Light within so they pass From Scripture are as bad 's those hold Mass Conscience enlightned Light within hearken to As a ruled rule Isa 8.20 Psal 119. v. 9 105. by the Scripture rule do How shall Man cleanse his way not by Sword But by observing what 's written in the Word Thy word is a lamp a light in my way Had not been for the Word I had gone astray Live the Scripture Col. 3.16 in Love let them dwell Plenteously in us they dehort from Hell And Remember what my lines do tell The Spirit who guided Men by 's Inspiration Luk. 24.45 Must work a practical belief by 's operation Of Scripture in our Hearts in our Generation Col. 2.11 In writing the Scriptures the Spirit did guide Men in their Generation as is imply'd By what I have said and can't be deny'd Therefore pray for the Spirit Luk. 11.13 who still Can guide us to understand God's will Reveal'd in Scripture which leads to Salvation Is by Christ in way of sanctification For a practical belief of Scripture I contend Joh. 16.13 Without which eternal Death will be our end SECT XXXIII If all I have said will not thee move After Holiness but still Sin dost love Consider Sins sad effects as we run If any thing will move see it on his Son Rom. 8.2 How God poured out his Wrath afresh Yet but in the likeness of sinful flesh For sin condemned sin in 's Son Shall we Make light of sin yet Christ was free In Christ was no sin nor any guile 1 Pet. 2.22 Yet had such love suffered for Sinners vile Christ was tempted Is' t nothing in thy eye Mat. 4.1 2. Had such love freely gave himself to die Was rich became poor of no reputation 2 Cor 8.9 Not a place to lay's Head to purchase Salvation For Sinners fasted was despised rejected Mat. 8. v. 20 27 29 30 31. Was spit on buffeted art still dissaffected Was derided Shall not Christ be respected Sweat like drops of Blood Luk. 23.11 sorrowful to Death For Sinners to appease his Father's wrath Christ was crown'd with Thorns Mat. 26.38 Art Still loth from thy Sins to depart No sorrow like Christ's Isa 53 3. behold ye pass by His Cradle a Manger Disgrace till came to die Luk 2.7 When born of a Woman Luk. 2.7 no room in the Inn All this Christ suffered cursed effects of Sin Christ wept Joh. 11.35 Do we laugh Tears Friends If 't is nothing to us sad will be our ends For despising Moses Law without Mercy dy'd Slight Christ's Blood by which are sanctified And we expose our selves Heb 10 28. to the 31. verse saith the Word Unto the severe Justice of the Lord 'T is dreadful if we in unbelief accord To fall in God's hand as saith the Word Is fearful therefore let 's obedience afford Out
Noddy Rom. 1.22 23. If bread's turn'd to Christs Body then when eat The Wafer they eat Christ O horrid cheat 1 Cor. 2.14 The wicked don't receive Christ none of them Understand things spiritual are foolishness to ' em Dan. 12.10 SECT III. MY first Arrow being gone thorow clear Psal 51.17 I will draw a second to make good the rear Hos 6.6 A second Error in Mass by which I can't pass Say they daily offer up Christ in the Mass Mic. 6.8 The Gospel allows Ministers and Sacrifices too But not superstitious Ceremonies to do Mat. 12.7 Sacrifice of prayer praise a Heart Contrite Psa 116.17 Broken for sin praying in Faith Gods Delight Heb. 13.10 Not in your gross superstitious Idolatries God will have mercy obedience not Sacrifice 1 Sam. 15.22 That there 's need offering Christ in the Mass Heb. 9.26 By way of sacrifice is an error very gross In Scripture 't is full of Blasphemies Against Christs priestly Offices Heb. 10.10 and implies An imperfection in Christs dying Sacrifice Contrary to Scriptures which do us call Remember Christs Offering his Body once for all In sacrifice to perfect them are sanctifi'd Here 's compleatness of Christs sufferings Acts 4.12 who dy'd To satisfie Gods Justice without delay Which could not be by any other way Mat. 3.17 Christs one sacrifice without Exemption Heb. 7.27 Hath compleated for ever Mans Redemption Search Scriptures once once Heb. 9.28 once for all Christ suffered for us 1 Pet. 3.18 whom God doth call An All-sufficient Sacrifice Heb. 10.10 â—â— I am well-pleased In my Son hear him ye that are diseased Hear him believe in him as you pass Take heed of this wicked Idolatrous Mass Mat. 17.5 For to reiterate a thing once done mind For the attaining or accomplishing the end For which it 's begun declares an imperfection By Mass Christs Sacrifice Mat. 23.28.33 vers cast by rejection As imperfect therefore they offer sacrifice To perfect what Christ begun O Blasphemies Making Christ himself a meer Cypher His sacrifice not valued as Ashes of an Hifer Mat. 3.17 Yet in Christ alone God's well-pleased Mat. 28.18 and Hath committed all power into his hand Yet see 2 Cor. 6.14 to the 18. vers Ezek. 14.3 6. these Mass-Priests how they vant Of Mass and render Christs Death insignificant So the glory of Christs priestly Office vail'd The Gospel Truth 's perverted and conceal'd Here 's Mass-worship John 5.21 an Idol-god for a Saviour As appears-by their Monkish lives behaviour Trampling under foot Christs precious blood Heb. 10.29 Glory of Christs priestly Office long withstood The Patience of Christ but 't is not long Christ will suffer them to usurp this wrong Psa 11.6 How many Protestants lives hath this stood That the Wafer is not Christs body and blood But the wicked shall do wickedly Dan. 12.10 and None of the wicked shall understand The wicked shall wax worse and worse Deceivers 2 Tim. 3.13 deceiving and deceived is a Curse 'T is just with God such should be deceiv'd When Truth with them can't be believ'd When truth comes into the World in sight They love darkness still John 3.19 rather than light Will not believe their Conscience so deprav'd Can't receive truth 2 Thes 2.10 that they may be sav'd They with malice Protestants inviron Having their Conscience sear'd with a hot Iron Their Consciences hardened 1 Tim 4.2 in sin bold False wicked Doctrines they do unfold And affirm those things for real truth So falsely corrupt both Age and Youth Which they know to be false yet deluded By Satan who on Adam and Eve intruded Gen. 3.4 Because they did not believe the Truth 'T is just with God on Age or Youth To send them very strong delusions To believe the Devils wicked infusions 2 Thes 2. 11 12. vers That they should believe the Devils lyes Because they delight in Blasphemies God's righteous in condemning Age or Youth Whose pleasure is in Unrighteousness not in Truth How they adore wickedness in their Station And corrupt Scriptures by false Translation And false glosses thereon and among All to serve God in an unknown Tongue 1 Cor. 14.14 Denying Scriptures by their command To be read by the Laity at no hand This their diabolical way to advance Superstition keeping People in ignorance Yet God in all Ages preserv'd by his Grace Some that never wicked Mass did embrace 1 Kings 19.18 But still did oppose Popery to it's face Yet by Popes cruelly suffer'd in their race Popes being for Cruelty Prov. 12.10 wicked and base To Protestants God change their Hearts by Grace I must tell you the Truth I can't spare ye Col. 2.18 They worship Images and Virgin Mary An express Badge of Antichrist they carry 1 Tim. 4.3 Against Scripture prohibiting times to marry Another Beast mark which like a Cheat Against Scripture command to abstain meat Humane Tradition Holy-days Deut. 18.10 12. vers which is a plain Mark of the Beast yet how few refrain Yet Scripture forbids them saith Paul again I am afraid of you lest labour'd in vain What 's tell of Scripture that 's not in their Eye Gal. 4.3 4. They plead Tradition Custom and Antiquity Scriptures they lay aside like a thing dead Hold the Pope to be the Churches Head Col 1.18 A brave Head he is if you will him see Thirteen of the Revelations will describe him to'e Rev. 13.1 Here 's that Monster that long hath bin In the World and for money forgives sin If you will believe him but my lines cry He is the Beast that speaks Blasphemy And is guilty of that sin of Simony Col. 2.8 He is the Great Beast of all Iniquity This proud insulting domineering Priest Enemy to godliness and is Antichrist Who forceth all abomination with 's Rod Exalts himself above all that 's call'd God 2 Thes 2.4 He is the Abomination that 's void of Grace Rev. 13.16 Still opposeth Christ and his Image deface Which is Holiness Josh 24.19.20 verse not a Picture so base The Counsel which an ancient Author gave Let every one with special care receive He that would holy live 2 Cor. 6.14 to the 18. vers from Rome be packing There 's all things else but Holiness is lacking SECT IV. BY Mass see breaking bread is misapply'd The Ordinance they also do divide Wine to the Laity is by Mass-Priests deny'd Yet Christ when his Ordinance set up Christ took bread Luke 22.19.20 vers and also the Cup But the Wine from the Laity is put Priest alone receives it into his Gut. Here 's your Mass-priest he drinks Wine alone But the poor Laity they have never none Yet Christ did institute one as the other 1 Cor. 11.24 25 But Christs Institution is as younger Brother
blind halt and lame Mal. 1.8 Wil 't please Man before God that 's shame What 's a form of Godliness without the Power Yet tell of Mens formalities how they lower 2 Tim. 3 5. Oh the Church of England they still cry Tit. 1.16 Oh the Church of England they still cry Yet the same still nay the same still they dy Enemies to godliness still workers of Iniquity Sure there can't be a greater derogation Isa 65.2.3 verses To God and the Gospel in our Station Than to live still a wicked Conversation By Prayer profess God 't is very plain Yet not live according I say it again Mat. 15.8 9. Without practice is taking Gods Name in vain As we profess so let us do Gods Will And not be found workers of Iniquity still God looks not so much at parts in Prayer Psal 145.18.19 verses As at the humble and sincere hearts desire A pair of Pidgeons or if but a Turtle-Dove Find kind Construction from the God of Love If tendred in Faith then a Widows mite From willing minds find favour in Gods sight Psal 51.17 Who from a sence of need and duty bring Their lowly Homage to their Heavenly King Their blemishes to vail their spots to hide A costly Covering Christ God did provide And to encourage us by a spiritual supply The Spirits Operation helps our Infirmity Rom. 8.26 Oh be holy in Life and also in Devotion Live according to the Holy Spirits motion 1 Thes 5.19 Calling on God and not depart from evil May be said to be worse than the Devil The Devil han't mercy offer'd Jam. 2.19 yet doth tremble Man hath Mercy tender'd yet he will dissemble With God and his Soul Psal 9 17. till God him sever In pieces like a Vessel Psal 2.9 then none can deliver Consider it you Formalists mind your Souls Can you dwell in everlasting burning Coals Isa 33.14 Consider it without holiness no Salvation Mind the necessity of your Souls Renovation Heb. 12.14 SECT IV. CArnal Worship pleases 2 Cor. 6.14 to the 17 verse carnal Apprehensions Are for outward show tho Mens Inventions Come out from among them Rom. 12.2 saith the Lord Don't conform to the World saith the Word Obj. Some may say we mast obey that an hour To dissent we must obey the higher Power Sol. To obey is active or passive to do or suffer To your consideration a word or two I offer Jer. 7.23 If what 's commanded be according to God's Word Luke 20.25 Contain'd in Scripture Isa 8.20 then Obedience afford Actively obey the higher Power Scripture saith If Commands are not against the Rule of Faith. Obedience from Inferiors to Superiors in Station Is due to the King as Supream in the Nation 1. Tim. 2.2 And to others but with this limitation That Obedience be in or for the Lord According to Gods Command in his Word For Conscience-sake we are to obey the King Rom. 13.5 Or other Magistrates in any lawful thing As Subjects and Inferiours under their hand In subordination according to Gods Command verse 7. If the higher Powers Command Obedience see If command according to Scripture 1 Sam. 12.24 or we Not bound to obey Psal 95.3 in Scripture that I can see If Men command Obedience in high degree Command to worship Jer. 10.6 or believe implicitly Because said Rom. 6.16 not Scripture from obeying free Which to obey Acts 5.29 God or Man is best judge ye Gods absolute Soveraignty over us in chief Psal 10.16 Is foundation of our Religion and belief None hath any absolute Power or Propriety Deut. 27.10 Over Conscience that 's Prerogative of the Deity Exod. 19.5 No power but from God grounded on his Law 1 Pet. 5.3 God ordain'd no power against himself know Humane Laws are but by-laws subordinate 2 Chron. 10.15 To Gods Law tho some would other wile ha 't He that ruleth over Men should be just Ruling in Gods fear not in his lust 2 Sam. 23.3 Are not Powers ordain'd of God absolute No unless for God this Reason will confute I can't believe God ordain'd Power on condition Against himself no it is by permission Sometimes God suffers People a King to take As a Judgment when they the Lord forsake 1 Sam. 12.27.25 vers See your great wickedness in this thing Take heed least consum'd you and your King. Thus it was with the People of Israel When would have a King among them dwell Only fear the Lord Scriptures plain tell Then you and your King may do well verse 24. Consider then Gods permission as we go God did not ordain Nimrod Julian Nero Gen. 10.8 God's Interest to overthrow cause his Peoples wo. God suffers them Power to take in high degree Yet stops their Inventions many times see Isa 10.7 For if Kings take power beyond the degree Of Christs Rule Ye have reigned not by me That is not according to the Scripture Command 1 Cor. 4.8 Or for Christs Interest as I the Word understand If Reign not for Christ Kings have no Power Over our Consciences tho the Body devour In way of suffering Passive-obedience yield 1 Pet. 5.3 In all submission but take heed of sins field In obeying the higher Powers don't be so odd In thy Obedience to sin against God Jer. 17.13 Fear and dread the Lords eternal Rod. SECT V. Obj. SOme say we must comply and obey If not we shall be in trouble every day Tho at present have the Kings Toleration It may be chang'd by Death in the Nation Or other ways there may be an alteration Sol. Mat. 16.26 Is this Obedience to God bodily preservation Saving of Goods Isa 51.12 and hazard Souls Salvation This is that Rock that devouring Wolf Hath destroy'd many in the eternal gulf 2 Tim. 4.10 Many to save their Goods and Estates comply With Superstition Col. 2.18 Will-worship and Popery The Primitive Christians were not so Thô in Mountains they were forc'd to go Heb. 10.24 At spoiling their Goods they did rejoyce Now a little trouble and a murmuring noise Like the Children of Israel Exod. 16.3 when try'd Murmure against God wish they had dy'd We have but the badge of Christianity If we enjoy not content all is vanity Many Men care not for the smile of God If they may enjoy the World so odd In their lives are most Men and herein They count it wisdom to sleep in whole Skin Time-servers if the World they inherit Contented Judg. 19. sensual having not the Spirit If they enjoy the mercy of a Brute Fat pasture and peace they will turn to 't They are for a part in Paris Phil. 3.19 Sin and Vice In the World care not for Paradise This will prove sad when come to dy Therefore unto Christ by Repentance fly And Faith in
4.14 A Form of Prayer for Children or Youth Is necessary 'till they understand Truth In a spiritual way Col. 1.10 then a Form they defie And Pray for the Spirit to help infirmity A Crutch is of use unto Men are lame Which unto sound Men you know is shame A Form of Prayer you see by reflection 2 Tim. 3.7 Where 't is us'd doth imply an imperfection Praying in Spirit is Heart-yielding to Christ 2 Cor. 10.5 Not a meer Form rested in Phil. 3.3 as Men list True Praying is everlasting Doors within Joh. 6.63 Doors of the Soul that everlasting thing Open'd by the Spirit to Christ Psal 24.9 10. King of glory According to Truth not according to Mens story 'T is holy Affection like an Angel in a Flame Judg. 13.19 20 This is praying to God not a Book that 's shame To any under Gospel-light to be so odd 2 Tim. 3.7 Without a Book not know how pray to God. Heb. 5.12 To pray in Truth is love become Divine 1 Cor. 1.30 By Grace in Heart the Soul doth shine 2 Pet. 1.4 In Prayer depend on Christs Approbation Person and Prayer left to Christs Mediation Psal 31.16 Not like Bishops and Priests in the Nation Heb. 7.25 Who rest in Forms in their Generation Eph. 4.19 Have no feeling of the Spirits Operation They say Hallowed be thy Name Mat. 6.9 When their Lives by sin cry shame How many fay Deliver us from Evil vers 13. Yet still do the Works of the Devil In their Lives pray for daily Bread For the Body when the Soul is dead vers 11. For want of Grace and also herein They say not pray forgive us our Sin vers 12. As we forgive others how would it be If God should do as they say for see They in malice run in a high degree They say Lead us not into Temptation vers 13. Yet run in all sin in their Conversation To be a Christian only in Name 't is plain Without practice taking Gods Name in vain Mat. 7.21 T is not enough to pray or say Lord Lord Without living in life according to the Word Pray and be holy in Life and the rather If not you don't believe in God the Father God is holy Lev. 11 44. and doth also Command Us to be holy see Scripture and understand Eph. 1.4 Don't pray yet still in thy life so odd But live holy like the Sons of God By Adoption and real Regeneration Rom. 8.14 15. Which is effected by the Spirit 's Operation As many as are led by the Spirit They live by Faith and apply Christs Merit As we pray so let us do Gods Will And not be found workers of Iniquity still Only a form of godliness Tit. 1.16 nothing worse To pray yet live in sin a dreadful Curse Without the Power 2 Tim. 3.5 then let us tremble No longer with God in Prayer dissemble The Prayers of those whom God by donation Hath given unto Christ Joh. 17.24 in their Generation Are accompanied with Christs Mediation And Intercession of Jesus Christ presented Unto the Father let Prayer be augmented Tho in Prayer we in much weakness run Our encouragement is in Christ the Son. Therefore in this Channel let Prayer run God is not pleas'd in any Mat. 17 5. but in his Son. Let 's lift up holy hands in our Station Without wrath and doubting in our Generation 1 Tim. 2.8 Here is a spiritual holy qualification Let 's be holy in outward Conversation As is the Fountain so will be the Stream Let 's live by Faith Jam. 3.11 12. not like Men in a Dream All our Souls Faculties must act in Prayer Our Undestandings Affections and Hearts desire Like Jehoshaphat 2 Chron. 19.3 let 's seek the Lord Set all our strength as saith the Word Pray in humility unto God understand Thy own unworthiness under whose hand And Power thou art who can command The whole World into nothing Isa 40.17 and Both Soul and Body must live or dye Mat. 10.28 At Gods dispose for ever to all Eternity SECT X. Obj. BUt some may say what need we pray God knows all our wants every day Psal 44.21 Sol. The Duty of Prayer is so clearly stated In Scripture John 21.17 it cannot be abrogated 'T is a Duty in Nature the Heathens so odd Said to Jonah Jonah 1.6 Arise call upon thy God. 'T is true God knows before we can say What we need Job 34.21 yet 't is our Duty to pray That we may be sensible of our need Of what we want God hath so decreed Psal 50.15 We should pray showing our dependency On God for what we want in humility Supplicate the Almighty who knows well Our wants before we ask yet Scripture tell That God will be enquir'd of by Israel Ezek. 36.37 God hath promis'd that he will hear Jer. 29.12 Prayer when we out of a sence appear 1 Pet. 3.12 Of our wants before God in holy fear Jam. 4.8 Then God will unto us draw near In time of Affliction the Scriptures say Is a seasonable time for Men to pray Then the Spirits motions are quick Prayer of the faithful saves the Sick. Jam. 5.13.15 verse His Ears are open unto their praying cry Althô some slight Prayer as they pass by Yet the Spirit doth in our Christian Race Make the Soul fruitful in all Grace Rom. 15.5.13 verse The Spirit us and Duty doth not divide But moves to Duty like wind and tide To a Ship makes us run to Gods Command In a way of Obedience by the Spirits hand 2 Cor. 1.22 Pray frequently fervently in our Station The Spirit gives wings unto Supplication Yea then is the Soul fill'd with Consolation Tho Prayer by some be cast by rejection Yet Believers praise God with strong Affection Psa 50.23 Constantly not like some in our nation Who pray when the Spirit in their Station Heb. 13.15 Doth move them to pray in their Generation So Prayer is in their Families little us'd At their eating and drinking very confus'd 1 Cor. 10.31 The Duty of Prayer they have much abus'd To neglect Prayer is a wicked infusion Instead of Gods Spirit a spirit of delusion For the Spirit of God where it doth move Eph. 2.18 Constrains the Soul to pray in love And Faith by the Spirit the cause is such 2 Cor. 5.14 Where much is forgiven they love much Luke 7.47 They abound in work of the Lord In eating and drinking saith the Word Do all to the Glory of God 1 Cor. 10.31 be active In ways of holiness in Grace to thrive Let it appear the Spirit is in you alive Quickning you by his Spiritual Motion Psal 16.5 Delighting you to do Gods Will in Devotion Until you enjoy God as your Portion Lam.
3.24 SECT XI TO summ up all Reader for thy Memory In love I will my self briefly apply 2 Pet 3.1 2. All my aim is thy spiritual advance I speak truth as my Name is Husnance This Method can't be unpleasing to desire Consider the my conclusion of Prayer And mind well what is said before For thy good I will say a few words more All words put in a dead form of Prayer Are not Prayer Isa 11.15 whilst the Hearts desire Is for Iniquity and after Sin doth dance Whiles the Heart 's full of sin and Ignorance When incredulity in Life doth advance And uncharitableness in Conversation The Prayer of such is an abomination Unto the Lord Prov. 15.8 9. clear in Scripture and Why call me Lord and do not my Command Prayer Luke 6.46 is not always to be banding Words in Prayer without Understanding Don't pray Luke 13.27 yet be a worker of Iniquity still This is not praying according to Gods Will. Pray in Faith and with a pure Heart And from sin in thy Conversation depart Answer the end of Prayer in Conversation In sincerity Lev. 10.3 by the Spirits Operation Pray in the Spirit whether Age or Youth In fervency sanctifie the God of Truth Pray constantly and in humility For acceptation Mat. 17.5 Christ by Faith apply This is to pray unto God then look Here is more than praying in a Book Here 's more than saying words in notion 'T is not easie to pray by the Spirits motion Without watching thereunto by Faith's desire Luke 21.36 This is to give one's self unto Prayer SECT XII FRom the Duty of Prayer I will advance And write briefly of Baptisms Ordinance There are very many Arguments among Some to whom Baptism doth belong Scripture to this point satisfaction give Seems to me it belongs to them believe Act. 8.37 Or of believing Parents as a qualification All required to believe in their Station Infants of believing Parents in Covenant Are to be baptiz'd Scriptures seem to grant The Promise being to them and their Posterity Acts 2.39 But here 's not the main of what 's in my Eye So pass it by and write of Baptisms use Briefly and also of Baptisms great abuse Baptism is an Ordinance of Christ in 's place Joh. 3.5 8. Yet the very Act doth not conferr Grace Col. 2.11 Baptism not the cause of Regeneration The Spirit may work our Renovation Tit. 3.5 Before or after Baptism a Type of Regeneration Rom. 4.11 As a Sign or Seal of our Confirmation And ingrafting into Christ in our Station Acts 4.12 Who is the only way unto Salvation Baptism admits into the Church of God Afflictions also are call'd his baptizing Rod. Mar. 10.39 Baptism is a lively Figure of Christs Death Rom. 6.3 4. By baptism ingag'd to Christ whiles breath It represents Christs Burial and Resurrection Then live to Christ depend on his Protection Being buried with Christ in baptism Col. 2.12 dy to sin And live unto Righteousness 1 Pet. 2.24 and herein By Baptism we give it under our hand To fight under Christs Banner at 's Command Deny our selves by holy real resignation Live to Christ Eph 1.7 who purchas'd our Salvation Baptism is our covenanting with God Don't live a wicked life fear his Rod. Only Covenant making is much like a Story 'T is Covenant-keeping only brings to Glory John 13.17 Seal of a Covenant makes not a Covenanter Don't live in life like a prophane Ranter Act. 2.17 Baptism rightly understood Gal 4.6 by Christs merit Brings us under a promise of the Spirit Which works in us true Baptism Gal. 5.22 saving Faith Having our Conversation holy Scripture saith Walk in love Brother-like not like a Noddy Of malice being baptiz'd into one body By the Spirit 1 Cor. 12.13 whereby we come to see Our deprav'd nature John 7.37.39 vers by sin can't happy be Without Christ to him by Faith flee In being baptiz'd only let none rest Without the end of it in life 's exprest 'T is not washing of water as I understand Doth good as in obeying Gods Command This point from Scripture I gather hence True baptism is answer of a good Conscience Towards God by the Resurrection of Christ To live holy 1 Pet. 3.21 and not in sin as we list By Baptism mayst be a Member of the Church Yet not of Christ fear what thoughts lurch In thee mayst be in a state of Damnation Tho baptiz'd if lives a wicked Conversation A Man may be sav'd Act. 8.13 to the 24. tho not baptiz'd If he believe let not Baptism be Idoliz'd Tho Baptism be necessary in its station Yet 't is nothing without the Spirits Operation Rom. 3.30 Tho Baptism be necessary in its place Col. 2.12 The end of Baptism in life don't deface For if thou dost the Truth I will tell Baptism will not save thee from Hell. Mat. 7.23 SECT XIII AS to Baptisms performance Scriptures descry Mat. 28.18 19. vers Have Christs Institution ever in thy Eye Purest Ordinances may be sinfully abus'd Much more those are superstitious us'd Take heed of Mens inventions and pollution Few now keep to Christs Institution Psal 14.3 Having Gossips and Cross in their scope Which things did derive from the Pope Baptizing Children like a Stage-plays dance With a drunken Feast is this Christs Ordinance Mat. 28.20 They be intitled Christian with a Feast 'T is not Christs way but way of the Beast Rev. 13.16 17. Baptism's efficacy is contain'd in Christ Not in the action by a time-serving Priest Psal 50.16.22 vers Who holds Regeneration on the deed done So tho never so wicked to Baptism run Gal. 1.10 Yet in their lives very wicked and odd For all their sign of Cross Enemies to God Yet say are Christians why because baptiz'd See how Baptism is abus'd and idoliz'd By most of Men Col. 3.1 2. to the 13 vers few answer the end Of Baptism tho Christians they pretend How prophane are Priests in the Nation To all wicked officiate administration How corrupt with the Popes pollution Jer. 9.13 14 15. Few of Priests keep to Christs Institution Baptizing wicked Mens Children none exempt Prov. 13.13 So bring the Ordinance into contempt How careless and promiscuously admit Before they are by Examination fit Contrary to Scripture Act. 8.37 which you may see Many Instances search Scripture free The Eunuch examin'd before baptiz'd was he If fit to receive into Church Society Acts 9.16 17. Not to baptize all come hand over head Lay aside Scripture Rule as a thing dead Like Papist Lev. 10.1 by whom Superstition is augmented The Priest admits whomsoever is presented If the Parent never so wicked not prevented And by whomsoever tho a wicked Noddy Preposterous to insert such into Christs Body The Church when in all
in its Fruit In Obedience to God without Dispute Inward and outward Man 't is only this Christian Godliness is God likeness Don't live in Sin yet Christian pretend For a Man's Life Phil. 3.19 foretells his end Life is an expression of the Soul's frame By Nature wicked art still the same Then for Heaven can'st lay no claim Without Holiness be in thy aim Heb. 12.14 See what Paul saith 't is not I make it Being cloathed upon 2 Cor. 5.3 we be not found naked Of Grace and Holiness in heart hast tried Thy need of Christ Mat. 8.2 by Faith applied Bewing thy Soul in obedience to his Law Heartily Heb 5 9. as expect'st God should Mercy show He hath this hope 2 Cor. 10.5 doth himself purifie As he names Christ departs from Iniquity Without Faith can'st not be saved 1 Joh 3.3 don't venture Thy Soul Heb 11.6 not all say Lord shall enter Rest not with the Name Christian Mat. 25.11 know What 's a Name to live and dead in Law Canst not any Evidence for Salvation show Rev. 3.1 What Life a Man lives doth plainly tell Whâ—ther he belongs to Heaven or Hell. A Man wicked in his earthly Race You may see Hell in that Man's Face When Hell opens in a Man's Conversation He is in the broad way to dissolation Mat. 7.13 Christ died not only to free Damnation But also to free from a sinful Conversation Tit. 2.14 Don't live in Sin cast not thy self away Christ is Author of Salvation to them obey Heb 5.9 Mind this I am in earnest to let thee see As is thy Seed time Psal 126.6 such thy Harvest be Remember't rouse in false hopes don't sleep Gal. 6.7 Whatsoever Man soweth he shall reap SECT XXVII Having thus far proceeded in our way 2 Pet. 3.1 2. Consider farther for I have more to say Which may be an use of Application A Branch of which is farther Examination Art under Satan's Power Or doth the Spirit Work Sanctification only Saints inherit Col. 1.12 13. Tho' Saints be now derided yet when try'd None shall be sav'd without sanctify'd Divine Power makes Partakers of Divine Nature 1 Pet. 1.2 Doth Faith in Christ thy Soul manure 2 Pet. 1.4 Speak Man don't hide Sin like a foolish Elf Rom. 6.12.16 Put the Question thus unto thy self Have I received Christ as being to rule me Am I from Sins commanding Power free Have I no allowed lov'd Sin in me If not a happy Man or Woman art thee Take heed don't cheat thy self Put to trial Hast lived the Life of self-denial Mat. 18.3 Hath the new Birth past on the plain Art Regenerate Hast been born again 1 Pet. 1.23 Dost hate Sin as sin hast any Acquaintance With Mortification and true Repentance Repentance is a change of Heart and Mind Rom. 8.13 From that 's Evil and to good inclin'd 'T is no Repentance say I am sorry for Sin Ezek. 36.31 Yet live in Sin this long in the World been Will not be put out of it till they die Have Mercy cry yet workers of Iniquity Mat. 7.22 23. Don't be deceived Repentance is a higher lift 'T is a supernatural Work is God's Gift Act. 5.31 Wrought by 's Spirit then pray Lord give Repentance unto Life let 's no longer live An almost-Christian let 's be brought From a State of Sin make my Heart sought Job 23.16 That I may be his who hath me bought 1 Cor. 6.20 Let 's not have worldly Sorrow that 's Death 2 Cor. 7.10 But godly Sorrow while I have Breath Work Holiness in my Heart before I die So live to praise thy holy Majesty These things are of serious consideration Without Regeneration Joh. 3.7 no Salvation SECT XXVIII Here 's another branch of Examination 2 Tim. 1.6 Whereby to know our real Renovation Men are known to what Nation they belong By their Language Expression of the Tongue Doth thy life speak Canaan Numb 13.23 describe the Land Hast been there Did'st bring Grapes in hand Doth thy life speak plain and not lowre As tho' thou hast eaten Grapes are sowre Ezek 13 2. Speak Man Doth thy life say plain From the Occasions of Sin 1 Thes 5.22 dost refrain Is Garlick a state of sin to thee more worth Prov. 23. v. 20 31. Than Milk Honey Grace and Holiness put forth From Egypt a state of Sin for fear thou fall In the Wilderness Exod. 16.3 Never enter Canaan at all Fear the Anakims Sin believe Scripture true Many are call'd Mat. 22.14 but they are sav'd few Of thousands Caleb Gen 7.23 and Joshua Son of Nun. Enter'd Canaan take heed of Sin or undone Don't cheat thy Soul with a false nod Numb 14. v. 37 38. Like most of the World Fear Christ's Rod. All think themselves in the favour of God Yet most in their lives very wicked and odd What Man alive what Man's state so bad Yet hopes for Heaven Jer. 13. v. 25 26 27. when dies 'T is sad When Men live in such wicked leaven Of Ignorance yet count to go to Heaven They their Souls in false hope still venture Make Heaven a place of all Souls Centre Most are with false hope so much depraved Yet Scripture saith 1 Pet. 4.18 the righteous scarcely saved That is thorough many difficulties and fear Where then shall the ungodly appear The broad way saith Scripture leads to Hell And most go therein 1 Joh. 5.19 Remember well And believe the Truth what Scriptures tell Don't live in unbelief like old Israel Why Israel did not enter Canaan in chief Was that great Sin of their unbelief Let 's fear Heb. 3.12 to the end lest there 's in us an evil heart Of unbelief so from Egypt sin â—oth depart From this root Unbelief the Fountain spring Doth flow in Men's lives sin that cursed thing Heb 49 11. 11.6 Which did Men believe were such an evil Against God their Souls they 'd not please the Devil All Satan's design is to cause Men to sin Full of malice ever since his fall been Job 1.7 A roaring Lion to destroy Souls Zech. 3.1 not that he Gets by Man's ruine 1 Pet. 5.8 but envies that degree Of Happiness which lost by 's Fall and Pride Jude 6. So God and Godliness Satan can't abide Rev. 12.9 Would have all from Godliness go aside Then watch against Temptations to Sin Satan hath many ways snares and ginn 1 Tim. 3.7 To catch Souls and many hath destroyed in His infernal gulf take heed of sin Sin 's evil is so great would us cheat Of Salvation its malignancy is so great Against God His ways 't is such an Evil Man hath no Companion in but the Devil 1 Joh. 3.8 Other Creatures answer end of their Creation Silly Man that should bring Damnation On
thy self love Devils Company so well Hos 13.9 Sin with Satan here and with him in Hell. Live in Sin unbelief this will be thy fare If lov'st thy Soul of sin take care The Christian is a new Creature I still cry As we name Christ let 's depart from Iniquity 2 Tim. 2.19 SECT XXIX Thus you see the cause of unregenerate State To help thee Reader Heb 11.1 6. I will a little more debate The Cause and in our way What 's Faith And Repentance according as Scripture saith Faith is the first link in a Believer's Chain Act. 8.37 Then follow Holiness and Sins refrain Then God's Love is shed abroad in our Hearts Rom â— 5 By the Spirit Eph. 2.8 6.16 17. so from Wickedness departs Faith God's Gift is a Believer's Shield and Sword Is ordinarily wrought in us by his Word Rom. 10.14 By the Spirit 's Operation whereby we see Our undone Condition by Sin till set free By Christ then the Soul without delays Remembers his own sinful evil ways Ezek. 36.31 Returns unto Christ with Morning Praise Looks on Christ whom hath pierced Tears run Weeps bitterly Zech 12.10 as one mourns for his Son This is Repentance that godly Sorrow unto Life Not to be repented of 2 Cor. 7.10 with Sin is at strife Thus all who are Regenerate by saving Faith Having received the Spirit Rom. 8. v. 13.14 15. as Scripture saith Enlightening our Understanding by 's Operation To live in new Obedience Eph. 3.16 to the 19. verse in Conversation This is writing God's Law in our Hearts By his Spirit so from Sin in life departs This is to be Regenerate and born again Jer. 31.32 When from Sin in Conversation we refrain Joh. 3.3 This is true Baptism made without Hands Col. 2.11 Having new dispositions to do God's Commands Not legal but evangelical Rom. 12.2 Heart change Inward Reformation Eph. 4.17 our Minds did range On Vanity now new thoughts of future State New apprehensions of Christ and strait Gate Mat. 7.13 New formed Principles 1 Tim. 1.5 practical Resolution New thoughts of Godliness till Dissolution Act. 11.23 This is Repentance to Life saith Scripture true This is Regeneration Josh 24.15 makes Man become new New Love to God in Christ is a new Creature 2 Cor. 5.17 Hates former ways Grace adorns his Feature Grace Gal. 6.15 a pulsive inward regenerating change Translates Man this to the World seems strange By experimental Knowledge Col. 1.13 what this means How few know Joh. 3.9 but to false hope they leans God's merciful Mat. 7.21.23 so abuse Mercy till they die Don't believe the Scripture nor Sin fly Lord have Mercy cry Workers of Iniquity Till lanch forth in the Ocean of Eternity Thou must be converted in thy Generation This must on thy Soul by Renovation Mat. 18.3 If ever art happy by way of Salvation Some use to say when they see a sick Friend Object If say Lord have Mercy he made a good end I would not discourage on a sick Bed Sol. But if thou presume on this 1 Thess 5.3 art led By the Spirit of delusion hast no ground For thy Salvation without in Christ found 'T is true God's merciful Joh. 14.6 by his Prerogative Did save the penitent Thief whilst alive Luke 23.43 Here 's an Example of Christ's Mercy but God Hath not promis'd Mercy at Death's fierce Rod Without a Promise what ground for Faith All Promises are in Christ Scripture saith 2 Cor. 1.20 And Christ saith not all say Lord Lord Shall enter Salvation this Mat. 7.21 Scripture record Without doing God's Will saith the Word Why wilt be so mad thy Soul to venture When many shall strive and not enter Luke 13.24 Thou wilt say this will make one despair Object This also is the Devils work his last snare Sol. Therefore of his wicked Devices take care Tremble and Fear Satan waits for Prey 2 Cor. 2.11 And would hinder thee of Salvation's Way Let me tell thee take it not in vain 1 Pet. 5.8 Where Despair hath destroyed one 't is plain Presumption hath it's ten thousand slain Gen. 19.14 Therefore false Hope do not still retain ' Must have Trouble for Sin if art sav'd 1 Cor. 15.34 Dread false Security Ephes 5.14 thy Soul is deprav'd With Sin let not Presumption increase Where the strong Man keeps House all Peace When a stronger comes Christ by his Spirit Luk. 11.21 22. Must be troubl'd the Devil to disinherit Then cast off false Peace in thy Generation Rom 13.11 Before thou fall in eternal Desperation Consider well what 's said in thy Station Rev. 20.15 All unconverted are in a state of Damnation Mat 18.3 Will not this spur thee to secure Salvation Don't think me rash Scripture says the same Search Scripture if not give me blame 'T is the only Terms Scripture all accord No Conversion Heb. 12.14 no Salvation saith the Word By Scripture shall be judged thee and I Then labour for Conversion before we die 2 Tim 4.7 Fight the good fight of Faith in our Station So we may obtain Faith's end 1 Pet. 1.9 Salvation SECT XXX Come on Reader How dost like this Play In other things 2 Tim 2.14 as motives in thy way Consider Sin 's evil as before is said Man's Companion in sin is also laid Before consider things as we go stated The sad condition of all unregenerated Thou may'st see the evil of unbelief Heb 3 19. hearing The ground of all wickedness and sin Cast this cursed weed out of Heart unbelief Cause of Man's Ruine of sin the chief For did Men believe God's Word were true Would not content themselves as they do In a state of Sin did they believe then they Would leave Sin turn out of Hell's way Then would the Drunkard and unclean flee From Wrath to come 1 Thes 1.10 would reformed be Scripture saith no unclean in his station So living Rom. 1.18 so dying shall enjoy Salvation Whoremongers Swearers many in the Nation Proud Gal. 5 v. 19 20 21 Covetous Lyers shall have Damnation For their Portion Who doth this believe But too like the Children of Mother Eve Believe Satan before God Gen. 3.6 pull the Tree Tho' forbidden so in our lives do we God commands take heed of Sin that curs'd Yet by most of the World 1 Joh. 5.19 how 't is nurs'd The reason Men don't believe in sin dead Don't believe God's Wrath Mat. 22.5 what e'er is said By some the whole Scriptures are deny'd Some others the Scripture they divide Its Precepts some don't believe what it saith Others in its Promises are weak in Faith. Hence all this is from the Devil's Art 2 Thes 2. v. 10 11 12. When Men receive not Scripture with
the heart Men love Darkness when deeds are evil Hate Scripture light is from the Devil Joh. 3.19 Satan knows the Tendency of Gospel-grace Is his Kingdom of darkness to deface Therefore Satan and Antichrist with 's Hounds 2 Thes 2.4 to the 9. verse Monks Friars Jesuits his Kingdom abounds Do all they can to keep Gospel-light down So blind lead blind into Satan's Pound Rev. 12.9 Scriptures were given by the Spirit 's operation Mat. 15.14 Able to make us wise unto Salvation 2 Tim. 3.15 Where 's the Man that lives in Conversation According to a Scripture demonstration Phil. 1.29 God exalted his Word above his Name Psal 138.2 For us not to live according is shame Nay to spur thee a little in thy way The Word I have spoken Christ did say Joh. 12.48 Shall judge us all at the last day Therefore to believe Scriptures let 's accord And live according to the reveal'd Word What Unbelief in men's Lives express'd Say they are Sinners and so are the best Gal. 6.7 5.16 17. Such Baseness in most men's hearts doth rest 'T is true Sin dwells in us in this Life But in the regenerate there is Strife Spirit against the Flesh Sin don't reign In Believers but thou dost Sin maintain Dost obey it in the Lust thereof still Rom. 6.12 Art captive to do the Devil's Will Consider take this Caution by the way Thou his Servant art whom dost obey Don't think to go to Christ for a Plaster And work Iniquity Mat. 25.41 no with thy Master Don't be presumptuous false hope don't breed Live holy hate Sin destroy that cursed weed Which if not will destroy's leave us dead As Jael Sisera strike the nail in his Head. Sin doth seduce us Judg. 4.18 to the 21. verse as Jael Sisera coming Sin blinds us as she him in Scripture seen Sin promiseth smooth things but in the end Nothing but Wormwood and Gall shall find Zeph. 1.2 3 7. But of the evil of Sin I have said before Consider it in Mind and shall say more Hereafter hate sin live holy in thy life Fear God's wrath with sin be at strife Bring forth Fruit unto holiness attend Eternal life and glory shall be thy end Rom. 2.7 SECT XXXI Some may say Object Deut 13.30 to the end Sol. being in sin very bold If this be true what you do unfold What 's become of our Fore-fathers of old This Objection I look'd for in my way Because common with many now a-day This is with false hopes our selves to flatter We are not to enquire into this matter But to look to what God commands As our duty Act. 17.30 this God requires at our hands Time of their Ignorance God did at wink Take heed what sinful thoughts thou think Let not any false hopes in thee augment God requireth all Men now to repent Don't with false hopes thy Soul delude Think best to go with the Multitude Exod. 23.2 This is like him which Histories do tell When came to be baptiz'd mind it well Asked whether his Fore-fathers were in Hell The Bishop said 't is truth what you tell Then saith he there will I also go Would not be baptized the cause is so With most of the World Jer. 9.14 the cause is sad When Men practise like Men are mad What is it to be a Christian only in name When Men's actions in life Tit. 1.16 cry shame Alexander one of his Souldiers did blame Said sight better or leave off thy Name So leave off Christian Tit. 2.14 or answer the end Of Christian and not Christian only pretend Many things done among Christians I could name Which to Heathens would be meer shame Eph. 5.12 The Turks the name of Christian defie Why because do not live accordingly They of Christians make Slaves 4.18 19. herein Many Christians make themselves Slaves to sin How corrupt is this our English Nation Few live Christian in their conversation How wicked and prophane in their Feasts In drinking healths drunk worse than Beasts Yet Ahasuerus who was but a Heathen King Did command against this wicked thing Esth 1. v. 7 8. The truth of which Scriptures plain tell No Man to drink should one another compel Oh! Christians those Practices are way of Hell. To force Men to drink is such an evil Is not from any good but from the Devil Yet Men will to their knees in this desire When never to their knees in holy Prayer Psal 14.4 Oh! that England under a Christian King Should such wicked practices forth bring Jesuits say a Cross honourable to a King's Crown Isa 5.20 But I think not when his Honours down In his Subjects when Iniquities abound 'T is Religion Holiness makes a King renown'd Let 's no more in these wicked practices be found But pray for King William in his Station 1 Tim. 2.2 Long may maintain in his Generation Gospel Religion by 's coming in the Nation Pray more for the King in thy Station Swear and whore less in thy Generation Leave of Drunkenness in thy Conversation Phil. 1.29 This is the best health in the Nation Live like a Christian real take my advice If ever you expect to injoy Paradise Cast off those Practices of sin and vice Pray against those things in this England Psal 7.9 143.10 To do God's will desire to understand Be holy in Conversation God's way chuse Rev. 14.7 Many are more for hearkning after News Than to know God think ignorance will excuse How many say where much is given Much is required Luk. 12.48 as my name is STEPHEN Let me tell thee and I will not dissemble Ignorance will be no excuse then tremble Cast off Wickedness no longer sin be banding God's displeas'd with People of no Understanding Isa 27.11 Yea fear and dread will not show favour Nor Mercy on them do not Mercy favour In their Lives will not be their Saviour That are ignorant of Christ in behaviour Luk. 13.27 When Christ comes in the World below 2 Thes 1.8 9. Will render Vengeance to all don't know And obey him tremble then and be wise From Ignorance of Sin do thou arise 'T is Scripture Counsel Luk. 12.47 Don't it despise 'T is true he that knows his Master's Will And doth it not but is negligent still Shall have many stripes suffer in a higher degree In Hell 10.13 14. the greater his Damnation be But what comfort will this yield thee If in Hell Joh. 17.3 then labour for Knowledge see Thy need of Christ Ignorance also flee Oh! 't is sad enough Man to be in Hell Tho' thy Punishment so great don't swell Mat. 8.12 As some others Jud. 6.7 yet Ignorance makes so odd 'T is Hell enough to be excluded from God From enjoying his Presence lie under his Rod. What 't is to lie under God's
see very clear As the Scriptures to us do make appear Tho' can't hinder Birds flying in the Air Over us from making nests in our Hair We are able to prevent them Eph. 6.10 to the 18. verse then take care How thou yield and entertain Sin And consider what I say to thee herein 'T is one thing to be conquer'd by an Enemy And another thing to yield and cry And surrender our selves presently Without opposition or from him fly Jam. 4.7 'T is one thing to be overcome by temptation Another thing to yield to sin in our station There 's great difference in sin remaining And in sin in our lives still reigning Rom 6.12 Don't still plead imbecility and never depart From sin in thy life this is Satan's art Use the means to overcome sin with thy heart The impotent Man did wait tho' weak At the Pool of Bethesda Joh. 5.5 as Scriptures speak Dost use all means to this end Don't flatter Thy self God will judge thee for this matter Consider what I say to thee and herein Abhor thy self Job 42.6 God's not the Author of Sin Be humble for corrupted nature take heed What thoughts concerning Sin thou breed Jam. 1.13 14. Don't plead Sin 's excuse God will confute Thy Plea without the Wedding-garment sute 1 Joh. 3.8 Make use of Reason and Understanding assent Mat 22.12 Will regulate and draw thy consent 1 Cor 14 20. Object Some may say we are weak and unstable What can we do to believe not able We by Sin can still God's Spirit grieve Why do you perswade us to believe Act 8.31 Sol. I answer here 's the cause and condition When sick don't you send for a Physician As a means of your health without delay And use all helps for the body that way Will you use means for the health of the body Rom. 13.14 And not for the Soul wilt be such a noddy Tho' not able to believe of our selves Rom. 10.16 17. saith Scripture do we use the means for Faith The Apostles did to all this Counsel give Perswaded Sinners to repent and believe Act. 3.19 16.31 Which doth imply a power from Sin to fly In us tho' the Spirit works it effectually Do we attend the Ordinances of God Eph 3.7 Appointed to this end Don't dissemble so odd For faith comes by hearing art attendant In hearing the Word Isa 40.29 30 31. as a poor dependant On God for his holy Spirit 's operation To make the word effectual to Salvation Dost wait at these Bethesda's by reflect Do you prize the means and don 't neglect No opportunity your Salvation to effect Dost love the Word and Messenger respect Heb 2.3 Such love to buy the word of truth Then sell it not whether Age or Youth Prov. 23.23 Let no worldly profit or self respect Cause you the means of Grace to neglect Have you esteem'd the word more than Food Job 23.12 Ventur'd all for it tho' sometimes withstood How did our Fore-fathers prize the Word For a few leaves of the Bible did afford A load of Hay as History doth say Now the whole Bible slighted in our day Mat. 22.5 Oh! love the Word and the Gospel prize They are Mercy to us tho' some it despise Tho' by some Scripture's slighted and deny'd Yet are to Salvation a perfect guide Rom. 1.16 Yea the power of God unto Salvation Oh! love them love them in thy Generation Live according they are no feigned story But do direct us the way to Glory Act. 20.32 The Scriptures are call'd the word of grace Let 's not in our conversations it deface Scriptures give Understanding in their station To the simple makes them wise to Salvation Psal 19.7 Love will speak for it's vindication In thy Station to hear the word move And receive it with faith and love 2 Thes 2.10 Not only in notion and speculation But let love appear in conversation Phil 1.27 Don't neglect the means in thy station How shall we escape eternal damnation If we neglect our so great salvation Heb. 2.3 Use the means don't delay rest on none For Salvation but on Jesus Christ alone As I have said before Joh 14.6 and again repeat Because our happiness is in Christ compleat Yet use the means don't thy Soul cheat If waited with many doubts and fears Yet wait still tho' be thirty eight years Some God is pleased to hold many a-day Psal 40.1 2. Before they are sure of Salvation's way Yet our duty is to wait watch and pray Some soon injoy by faith this Treasure Others God's pleas'd to hold with longer leisure What shall I say to this Ephes 1.5 't is God's Pleasure Let 's do our duty in Faith not measure God's dispensations Mat. 20.1 to the 16. verse he is God of Power Calls some the first some the eleventh hour To some God gives five Talents 25.15.26 some but one Emprovement is expected from all hereupon Must do our duty as in our Station run Must not be slothful Servants in our station Must improve our Talent work out Salvation With fear and trembling Phil. 2.12 the means attend God ordains the means as well's the end Cast off dissembling don 't still pretend Thy imbecility Psal 40 1 2 62.5 6. act Faith on Christ depend In and on the means and to be sure Thy Soul shall have an everlasting cure Rom. 10.11 SECT XXXVI Consider these things 2 Pet 3.1 2. Reader them dilate In heart they concern thy everlasting state The result of all my aim herein Is to bring thee an abhorrency of sin And to tell thee also whether great or small If did but half so much for the Soul Mat. 6. v. 31 32 33. As for the body better Christians might be all To help thee farther I will my self apply And consider what I say as thou passest by Doth Sin appear exceeding sinful Rom. 7.13 Dost cry Who shall deliver Rom. 7.24 to sin let me die Sin is a powerful and malignant Enemy So deceitful Heb. 3.13 would the ruine of thee and I. Consider thy own impotency and herein Observe thy inability to overcome Sin. Can 't nature change nor heart renew Nor of thy self thy Lusts subdue Jer. 10.23 Object Say some What must be done and we Would from sin's Dominion be set free If on what 's said hast had reflection Sol. Had been no need of this objection However in love for thy Soul 's advance I will tell thee truth as my Name 's HVSNANCE Job 42.6 Be humble obhor thy self know thy heart How deceitful 't is I need no more impart Jer. 17.9 To humble thee What a Cage of uncleannese lies In thy heart evil Thoughts Murders Adulteries Mat. 15.19 By nature desperate wicked whilst breath Watch thy heart of it comes life and Death
blessing Heb. 2.14 which Scripture contains Of its descending like the latter Rains To usher in the glory of Christ's day Thy Kingdom come blessed God haste away Let 's hear of Babylon's fall Rev. 18.21 in our day So may live for ever unto thy praise Let thy Kingdom come it will please us Come Lord and 22. â—0 even so come Lord Jesus Lord shew grace more and more to me Or take me hence this world to thee Psa 31.16 The third part of this Book doth appear An invitation to love tho' in the rear To love one another let 's be inclin'd To be for Christ of one heart and mind Christ prayed for oneness and peace 'T is Christ's command love should encrease Let 's clear up to Christ our Union By love to one another in holy Communion Receive as written in love what doth follow Despise it not tho' it be not from Apollo Let not a fancy an opinion a meer notion Hinder love one with another in Devotion A Preface to move the Reader unto Love. 1 Cor. 10.15 TO love our Neighbour as our selves know James 2.8 Gal. 5.14 Is fulfilling of the royal Gospel Law Saith Scripture how many are so odd Instead of love are for a malicious Rod In holy love how few are taught of God 1 Thes 4.9 But are like Cain in the Land of Nod Who did not only hate but slew his brother Many in our days murther one another 1 John 3.12 Nay he is a murtherer who doth but hate His brother the Scripture doth this state v. 15. Those that live in malice and wicked strife Cannot enjoy God's presence in eternal life For God is love oh then let love run To one another and all malice shun 1 John 4.7 Love all men especially the houshold of Faith Gal. 6.10 Love your Enemies as the Scripture saith Every one is our neighbour and brother By nature love the welfare of one another Acts 19.26 By love is known the Spirit of Truth And the Spirit of Error in age or youth Eph. 2.3 Holy love is the very mark of those Whom God for his by Election hath chose Joh. 13.34 35. By love the Children of God are known From Satan's they for malice every one He doth not righteousness Scriptures discover Is not of God 1 John 3.10 nor he loves not his brother How many for want of love are so evil For malice Jam. 3.14 15. the very mark of the Devil God's Command doth for love still run Rev. 12 13. And also to believe on his Son. 1 Joh. 3.23 Fidelity and love are inseparable saith Scripture which is the only Rule of Faith Where one is Gal. 5.22 there is also the other Cast off malice and love as brother This command is from God as we go He that loves God 1 John 4.21 loves his brother also Real not feignedly as most now do Dissembling one with another is too true How flattering is one neighbour to another Jer. 9.4 5. Little real love between sister and brother Fair to their faces but turn their back Then speak ill or despising and so detract What love pretended Joh. 3.16 real love is slack God's love freely unto us did run In sending forth to die Gal. 4.4 5. his only Son We all ought if God so loved us To love one another 1 John 4.11 malice is a Curse Hatred and malice is the mark of Hell Jam. 3.15 16. Oh! 1 Joh. 2.11 cast off malice and consider it well Hatred malice revenge is such a Leaven Shuts all guilty out the Kingdom of Heaven Gal. 5.21 He that saith loves God 1 John 3.15 and 4.20 and hates his brother Is a Lyar saith Scripture Oh! love one another 'T is good for brethren Psal 133.1 in love to hold In unity the Scriptures unto us unfold In days of cruelty Mat. 24.12 let not love wax cold Oh love for you see men in wickedness bold Love one another Job 9.6 in this shaking hour Lest in stead of love one another devour Live in love and peace love as brother Lest we are consumed one of another Gal. 5.15 Antichrist by Jesuits hath love withstood Satan cast after the Woman a water-flood Rev. 12.15 See now how Pope with his Popish Crew Against Protestants doth now still pursue England and Holland they count to subdue Psal 68.30 By their wicked and diabolical Jarrs Raiseth one Nation against another in Wars Rev. 17.14 All to cause Protestants ruine and woe But fear not Protestants and also know Psal 2 4 5. God will ere long give them an overthrow Stand still and see the Lord's Salvation Exod. 14.13 God will work Deliverance for our Nation Psal 44.5 Then love one another in this generation Let not Satan hinder love in our station Satan fills mens hearts with Pride's invention For by Pride cometh wicked Contention Prov. 13.10 All the study wit parts art and skill Of some hath been to oppose one another will You instead of love continue so still If so you do not Christ's Command fulfil John 15.12 Christ commands love you may it see By what follows if your love impartial be Jam. 2.1 9. Let not an opinion a fancy a meer notion Hinder love one with another in Devotion Love to one another is from the Spirits motion Gal. 5.22 The Spirit 's fruit is love Scripture says Jer. 32.39 Shall be of one heart in the latter days See how the people of Israel did of old Zech. 14.9 Knit together as one man Scriptures unfold Judg. 20.1 11. Want of this love hath hindred Reformation Other things too I could tell in the Nation They entred into Covenant to seek the Lord With their hearts and souls saith the Word 2 Chron. 15.12 13. Whosoever would not seek whiles breath The God of Israel should be put to death Oh! that in love Psal 119.2 we would enter in band To seek God with all our hearts in England Hos 10.12 There is a time will needs love at hand Therefore love and my meaning understand Oh! love one another 't is Christ's command Receive as written in love 1 Cor. 3.5 6. what doth follow Despise it not tho' it be not from Apollo Consider Reader what my Lines tell So from the Stream go to the Well Read love in love so may'st for ever dwell With God of Love Gal. 6.16 the holy One of Israel Oh! that those weak lines may love advance To God Acts 17.30 and to one another cast off ignorance Of malice so prays thy friend Husnance Consider in love what my Lines tell Love as a Christian real 2 Tim. 2.7 so farewel Sect. 1. AN Appendix Heb. 10.24 or word of love in the end As said before if you an Ear will lend This word love I
full Redemption From Sin and Hell without exemption They and only they the cause this The Lord knoweth all who are his 2 Tim. 2.19 This the foundation that standeth sure God will make his Elect in heart pure Will give grace to fit them for his glory By grace saves us Ephes 2.8 not like free will story By grace makes us run his Commands None shall pluck the Elect from his hands John 10.29 Once in Christ on whom Believers depend Christ loveth them still unto the end and 13.1 They are safe in Christ by Election And not like those men who by reflection Say a man may be now a Child of God In the morning yet in his life so odd Before night may be by sin so evil That he may be a Child of the Devil Reader consider understand and see What men make of God's Eternal Decree How erroneous men are and refutable Mal. 3.6 In making the Eternal God mutable Heb. 13.8 Which doth imply and also give a lift To man's free will and not as Gods gift To give grace and glory at his pleasure Psa 84.11 But as man acts at his will and leisure Eph. 1.5 Which is repugnant to Scripture clear Which by Grace I shall hereafter make appear To conclude this head with errors to deface God's general and also his special grace 2 Tim. 2.7 Are not inconsistent in their proper place Yet 't is special grace leads to eternal life Altho' some about it are still at strife How Pelagians Arminians do all flie To this the special grace of God deny Rom. 11.5 7. And that Christ did for all men die 1 Thes 5.9 With equal extent which Scriptures deny Which before is said if rightly them apply 2 Tim. 2.10 Yet those men were of great parts yet Misled their understandings wrong set Which I shall make more full appear 1 Cor. 12.31 As my Lines shall bring up the rear Sect. 4. Object SOme hold that God in 's Eternal Decree Hath not absolute appointed some to misery But that God electeth with some frequent All upon condition that they repent And believe which in effect implies still They may repent and believe if they will So consequently God rejecteth in 's station No man absolute from his salvation But that God suspendeth his determination Expecting man's repentance in his station Sol. I answer according to Scripture demonstration Prov. 16.4 That there is a particular and special reprobation Rom. 9.22 Therefore can't be an universal electation Jud. 4. That you may not in your generation Be misled Rom. 11.7 or drawn in your station To believe that God in 's eternal dispensation Hath chosen all men unto salvation Rev. 13.8 On condition leaving it wholly still To themselves to their own free will Either to ratifie it Jer. 10.23 or infringe it see What men make of God's Eternal Decree 2 Cor. 3.5 If men believe not then God's Decree's annoy'd If persevere not then Election is void Otherways if men believe and still pursue Holiness to the end then they affirm it true Election remains in full power and virtue That this Opinion may not take with you I 'll say something against it 1 Cor. 10.15 I hope true Consider what I lay before you new And that you may understand by reflections I shall endeavour to answer some Objections In which I shall follow Scripture directions According to free grace unto me given Gal. 1.11 I will lay Truth plain as my name 's Stephen Good works not the cause of Electation Tit. 3.5 Tho' sin 's the cause of reprobation Damnation is the fruit of sin's production But not why God ordains men to destruction 2 Pet. 2.1 3. God in all his determinations is free Mat. 11.26 Neither Election nor Rejection in degree Are of works God's Decree tho' by some torn Passeth on Children are not yet born Rom. 9 10. Having done neither any evil or good God is free in Election or Rejection understood Rightly 't is plain in Jacob and his Brother Chuse the one and did refuse the other Why God passeth some men by preterition I can't define the cause on no condition But only in God Eph. 1.4 5. of some to make choice And others to reject must be free grace noise God hath free mercy on whom he will And whom he pleaseth he hardeneth still Rom. 9.18 As God hath Elected some unto Salvation So God hath appointed others to Damnation God all things for himself made hath Yea the wicked for the day of wrath Prov. 16.4 As God ordains vessels of mercy 't is no story So there are vessels of wrath by preparatory To destruction on which Justice hath glory Rom. 9.22 This is very clear in the Scripture stated verse 13. Jacob have I loved but Esau have I hated What other reason for this can be But his own pleasure and Eternal decree Mal. 1.3 Gods absolute power over man is intended Clear and free grace to the Elect commended Object But some may say unto me herein Don't you make God the Author of sin Sol. No for reprobation goes before sinment Jud. 4. Not as a Cause but as an Antecedent 2 Pet. 2.8 God by the decree of reprobation Don't infuse sin into man in 's station Eph. 2.5 Nor compel man to do any sin or evil Jam. 1.13 14. Sin is of 's own concupiscence and the Devil Yet God doth set sin's determination Not to confer on man a confirmation In grace to make man stand in 's station Deut. 29.4 But permits man of his own accord To commit sin Psal 81.12 as saith the Word In Scripture 't is very plainly so Ephes 4.19 Limits man how far in sin shall go 2 Kin. 19.28 Reprobation being an act of Gods power Hath no other cause but God to this hour Rom. 9.21 But sin 's the meritorious cause of damnation Hos 13.9 As Justice executed in mans condemnation Man is not condemned understand herein Because man cannot chuse but sin Ezek. 18.31 32. In regard of Gods decree of reprobation Jer. 9.14 But sins in regard of 's own inclination Tho' unregenerate men do nothing see But what God hath appointed in 's decree Acts 4.27 28. Yet understand man sinneth because still Doth all in obedience to his own will Mat. 23.37 38. And not in obedience to Gods command Whom God hath not ordain'd understand To save 1 Pet. 2.8 they from sin never depart But follow the imagination of their own Heart Till the measure of their sin is full 2 Cor. 4.3 4. Mat. 23.32 33. Then Justice on them all gives a pull Sect. 5. Some may bring forth this production Hard Object God should ordain men to destruction Shall not the great Creator be free Sol. To dispose his Creatures