act_v by_o his_o own_o power_n the_o divine_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n p._n 233._o 2._o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o promise_n or_o of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n diverse_a thing_n in_o the_o promise_n or_o in_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n when_o it_o be_v reveal_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o be_v clear_a in_o many_o particular_n from_o p._n 234._o to_o 340._o the_o first_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n p._n 236._o a_o second_o beam_n of_o divine_a light_n p._n 254._o a_o three_o p._n 262._o a_o four_o p._n 267._o a_o five_o p._n 269._o a_o six_o p._n 274._o the_o security_n give_v to_o soul_n from_o the_o covenant_n oath_n seal_n p._n 274._o from_o the_o many_o engagement_n upon_o god_n himself_o p._n 305._o 3._o the_o spirit_n conviction_n of_o the_o conscience_n p._n 340._o what_o conscience_n be_v the_o two_o most_o eminent_a work_n of_o conscience_n the_o spirit_n excitation_n of_o the_o habit_n of_o grace_n former_o infuse_v into_o their_o proper_a exercise_n p._n 345._o what_o the_o spirit_n excitatjoin_v be_v p._n 350._o 5._o the_o spirit_n attestation_n or_o witness_n unto_o the_o soul_n both_o its_o attestation_n to_o sense_n and_o to_o faith_n p._n 355._o to_o 392._o quest_n how_o soul_n that_o conceive_v themselves_o to_o have_v receive_v certain_a and_o satisfy_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v know_v certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n and_o not_o a_o diabolical_a enthusiasm_n or_o inspiration_n or_o a_o delusion_n by_o the_o devil_n translation_n of_o himself_o into_o angelical_a glory_n p._n 392._o several_a thing_n concern_v diabolical_a inspiration_n p._n 393._o the_o ground_n of_o the_o different_a act_n of_o the_o devil_n policy_n towards_o believer_n and_o unbeliever_n p._n 406._o quest_n can_v the_o devil_n look_v into_o the_o understanding_n of_o man_n to_o know_v what_o the_o inward_a act_n of_o their_o mind_n be_v p._n 425._o 2._o satan_n power_n upon_o the_o conscience_n p._n 431._o 3._o satan_n power_n upon_o the_o affection_n and_o passion_n p._n 436._o premise_n about_o a_o soul_n trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n receive_v whether_o it_o it_o be_v from_o god_n or_o be_v a_o diabolical_a inspiration_n p._n 437._o four_o sinful_a distemper_n incident_a to_o believe_v soul_n when_o doubtful_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidenc_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n which_o do_v incapacitate_v for_o a_o just_a trial_n and_o true_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n p_o 445._o quest_n if_o soul_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o impatiency_n rashness_n irrational_a affection_n prejudicial_a conceit_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o under_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a for_o a_o right_a trial_n of_o their_o evidence_n then_o what_o suitable_a mean_n remain_v for_o such_o soul_n in_o these_o sad_a condition_n under_o fear_n that_o their_o eaidence_n be_v delusion_n answer_n p._n 455._o if_o the_o examination_n can_v only_o be_v take_v from_o those_o evidence_n which_o remain_v in_o their_o perspicity_n clearness_n and_o sanctify_a power_n then_o quest_n what_o use_n can_v soul_n make_v of_o the_o evidence_n they_o conceive_v they_o have_v receive_v of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n when_o the_o lustre_n and_o orient_a brightness_n of_o their_o evidence_n be_v eclipse_v p._n 472._o answer_v in_o 4_o proposition_n six_o holy_a use_v the_o soul_n be_v to_o make_v for_o former_a evidence_n p._n 479._o nine_o argument_n from_o former_a evidence_n to_o plead_v with_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n p._n 483._o from_o all_o those_o consideration_n the_o question_n be_v thus_o state_v quest_n how_o shall_v any_o soul_n that_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v and_o do_v actual_o enjoy_v certain_a and_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n demonstrate_v from_o certain_a necessary_a and_o evident_a reason_n that_o those_o his_o evidence_n be_v real_o from_o god_n p._n 491._o answ_n there_o be_v but_o two_o kind_n of_o demonstration_n 1._o the_o first_o and_o most_o certain_a ground_n be_v take_v from_o the_o cause_n now_o there_o be_v but_o two_o principal_a cause_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n both_o which_o concur_v together_o and_o be_v never_o separate_v one_o from_o another_o that_o be_v the_o lord_n bless_v write_v word_n and_o that_o precious_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ._n that_o the_o first_o primary_n and_o principal_a reason_n from_o whence_o a_o soul_n may_v conclude_v that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n be_v that_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n do_v proceed_v from_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n two_o thing_n open_v to_o clear_v this_o 1._o that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n to_o evidence_n to_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v evidence_n itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n p._n 493._o 2._o that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o that_o spirit_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o most_o potent_a invincible_a demonstration_n of_o its_o own_o proceed_n from_o god_n p._n 499._o the_o second_o instrumental_a cause_n that_o shine_v into_o any_o heart_n real_o from_o god_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o lord_n precious_a word_n p._n 502._o where_o be_v clear_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n p._n 512._o 2._o the_o second_o sort_n of_o demonstration_n a_o posterioti_fw-la take_v from_o the_o effect_n five_o act_n in_o believe_a soul_n whereby_o they_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n soul_n confident_a they_o shall_v be_v everlasting_o save_v by_o christ_n put_v upon_o it_o to_o search_v into_o their_o heart_n and_o serious_o lay_v six_o thing_n before_o they_o to_o consider_v of_o a_o treatise_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n etc._n etc._n ephes_n 1.10_o that_o in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n he_o may_v gather_v together_o in_o one_o all_o thing_n in_o christ_n both_o which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n even_o in_o he_o the_o apostle_n take_v care_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n after_o his_o departure_n from_o it_o write_v this_o epistle_n for_o the_o establish_n their_o heart_n in_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n free_a grace_n in_o christ_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v their_o soul_n partaker_n of_o that_o thereby_o he_o may_v excite_v and_o quicken_v they_o to_o all_o suitable_a walk_n to_o such_o privilege_n this_o be_v his_o scope_n in_o this_o first_o chapter_n the_o apostle_n begin_v to_o reckon_v up_o all_o those_o glorious_a privilege_n by_o their_o several_a name_n in_o their_o several_a cause_n and_o order_n and_o therefore_o you_o shall_v see_v in_o ver_fw-la 3._o he_o break_v out_o in_o the_o very_a beginning_n into_o a_o holy_a rapture_n of_o praise_n and_o admiration_n of_o god_n to_o bless_v his_o name_n for_o those_o high_a privilege_n as_o election_n justification_n vocation_n and_o glorification_n now_o in_o ver_fw-la 8._o be_v comprehend_v the_o great_a privilege_n of_o their_o vocation_n in_o those_o word_n wherein_o he_o have_v abound_v towards_o we_o in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o prudence_n or_o understanding_n that_o be_v in_o which_o grace_n and_o love_n before_o name_v the_o lord_n have_v abound_v towards_o we_o through_o the_o communicate_v that_o grace_n of_o wisdom_n and_o understanding_n to_o we_o that_o be_v that_o grace_n that_o make_v we_o receive_v and_o rest_v upon_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n and_o have_v thus_o name_v the_o privilege_n itself_o ver_fw-la 9_o he_o open_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o lord_n thus_o effect_v this_o grace_n upon_o their_o soul_n in_o these_o word_n have_v make_v know_v unto_o we_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o will_n according_a to_o his_o good_a pleasure_n which_o he_o have_v purpose_v in_o himself_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o be_v by_o the_o lord_n manifest_v the_o mystery_n of_o his_o will_n to_o their_o soul_n and_o what_o he_o mean_v by_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o will_n he_o tell_v we_o for_o 13_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n the_o gospel_n of_o salvation_n he_o mean_v indeed_o the_o salvation_n preach_v in_o and_o through_o the_o lord_n christ_n alone_o which_o be_v the_o great_a mystery_n that_o the_o angel_n desire_v to_o pry_v into_o now_o by_o the_o revelation_n of_o this_o mystery_n the_o lord_n do_v communicate_v that_o grace_n and_o understanding_n to_o they_o whereby_o they_o do_v embrace_v that_o precious_a doctrine_n that_o make_v they_o wise_a to_o salvation_n
first_o embrace_v of_o christ_n have_v strange_a conceit_n of_o a_o temporal_a kingdom_n of_o christ_n and_o yet_o no_o question_n the_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o their_o soul_n be_v real_a only_o through_o want_n of_o clearness_n of_o light_n many_o disorderly_a affection_n be_v in_o they_o which_o be_v set_v in_o order_n afterward_o premise_v 3._o three_o i_o must_v premise_v also_o that_o there_o be_v a_o vast_a difference_n to_o be_v observe_v between_o argument_n or_o confirm_v sign_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n those_o proper_o be_v call_v evidence_n that_o do_v in_o their_o proper_a nature_n discover_v union_n whenever_o they_o be_v present_a so_o that_o when_o such_o thing_n be_v present_a the_o soul_n can_v question_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o those_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v evidence_n that_o be_v not_o able_a to_o clear_v up_o union_n with_o christ_n whenever_o they_o be_v present_a in_o the_o soul_n now_o of_o that_o nature_n be_v many_o holy_a disposition_n and_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o may_v be_v present_a in_o the_o soul_n and_o not_o able_a to_o clear_v up_o the_o soul_n union_n yet_o these_o be_v evidence_n that_o may_v and_o do_v clear_a unquestionable_o whenever_o the_o lord_n discover_v they_o the_o question_v you_o ask_v be_v a_o great_a question_n the_o question_n be_v how_o we_o shall_v know_v our_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o be_v how_o we_o may_v attain_v evidence_n of_o union_n our_o union_n either_o be_v dark_a or_o doubtful_a or_o else_o never_o have_v clear_a evidence_n you_o that_o have_v it_o do_v not_o ask_v how_o you_o shall_v have_v it_o confirm_v more_o and_o more_o but_o how_o you_o shall_v have_v evidence_n of_o your_o union_n now_o i_o shall_v answer_v first_o negative_o how_o you_o may_v not_o second_o affirmative_o how_o you_o may_v neg._n first_o negative_o how_o you_o may_v not_o in_o three_o or_o four_o thing_n ans_fw-fr 1._o first_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n can_v be_v evidence_v from_o any_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v effect_v in_o or_o upon_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v neither_o by_o his_o illumination_n humiliation_n or_o reformation_n neither_o by_o a_o restrain_v work_n from_o sin_n or_o prevent_v work_n of_o sin_n or_o allure_a work_n from_o sin_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v effect_v upon_o the_o soul_n all_o these_o work_n be_v too_o weak_a to_o clear_v up_o union_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o upon_o three_o ground_n 1._o in_o regard_v all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o soul_n that_o do_v go_v before_o union_n may_v be_v and_o be_v wrought_v upon_o soul_n that_o never_o obtain_v union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n as_o humiliation_n sorrow_n for_o sin_n restraint_n from_o sin_n some_o kind_n of_o turn_v the_o heart_n away_o from_o sin_n some_o kind_n of_o love_n to_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n all_o those_o that_o go_v before_o the_o very_a instant_n wherein_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o christ_n may_v be_v effect_v in_o many_o soul_n that_o never_o obtain_v union_n nay_o they_o may_v be_v and_o appear_v great_a in_o many_o soul_n that_o never_o obtain_v union_n than_o in_o soul_n that_o attain_v unto_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o in_o regard_n those_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o soul_n be_v common_a to_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o unite_v as_o well_o as_o to_o soul_n unite_v thence_o they_o be_v no_o evidence_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n whatever_o must_v evidence_n union_n to_o a_o soul_n must_v be_v proper_a and_o peculiar_a to_o soul_n unite_v that_o it_o may_v be_v proper_o say_v that_o no_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o complete_o unite_v to_o christ_n can_v have_v such_o a_o work_n upon_o their_o heart_n now_o no_o such_o work_n go_v before_o immediate_a union_n but_o may_v be_v common_a to_o a_o soul_n never_o unite_v to_o christ_n for_o conviction_n of_o sin_n and_o sorrow_n for_o sin_n i_o may_v instance_n in_o judas_n in_o reformation_n and_o desire_n to_o ordinance_n we_o need_v go_v no_o further_o than_o a_o wretched_a herod_n mark_v 6.20_o he_o hear_v john_n baptist_n glad_o and_o reform_v many_o thing_n for_o a_o soul_n mourn_v after_o god_n apparent_o we_o may_v see_v it_o in_o esau_n a_o soul_n out_o of_o the_o sense_n of_o want_n of_o union_n may_v mourn_v most_o bitter_o now_o in_o regard_n of_o rhe_n commonality_n of_o the_o work_n to_o soul_n not_o unite_v as_o well_o as_o unto_o soul_n unite_v they_o can_v be_v no_o evidence_n of_o union_n 2._o in_o regard_v these_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o soul_n can_v yield_v no_o divine_a witness_n or_o testimony_n unto_o the_o poor_a doubt_v soul_n indeed_o all_o the_o work_n of_o god_n originally_n be_v divine_a work_n and_o work_v of_o divine_a power_n yet_o they_o have_v no_o power_n to_o yield_v a_o divine_a testimony_n now_o nothing_o can_v be_v a_o sufficient_a ground_n for_o the_o soul_n to_o believe_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n unless_o it_o be_v a_o divine_a ground_n the_o proper_a object_n of_o all_o divine_a faith_n must_v be_v a_o divine_a ground_n if_o it_o be_v a_o fallible_a ground_n it_o be_v a_o fallible_a faith_n if_o a_o uncertain_a ground_n it_o be_v a_o uncertain_a faith_n if_o a_o humane_a ground_n it_o be_v a_o humane_a faith_n now_o in_o case_n upon_o those_o ground_n as_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o soul_n shall_v believe_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o shall_v not_o believe_v it_o with_o a_o divine_a faith_n because_o there_o be_v no_o divine_a ground_n to_o believe_v it_o upon_o 3._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v no_o promise_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n make_v by_o god_n unto_o soul_n that_o have_v these_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o they_o that_o be_v no_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v burden_v with_o sin_n or_o the_o like_a i_o mean_v thus_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o engage_v in_o any_o of_o these_o promise_n to_o soul_n that_o have_v such_o and_o such_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o they_o that_o those_o he_o will_v bring_v into_o union_n and_o none_o but_o those_o that_o be_v because_o my_o soul_n be_v burden_v with_o sin_n or_o because_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v now_o convince_v my_o soul_n in_o this_o or_o that_o manner_n that_o therefore_o i_o have_v right_a to_o such_o and_o such_o a_o promise_n no_o these_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o soul_n in_o reference_n to_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o by_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n i_o may_v have_v right_a to_o these_o promise_n and_o to_o the_o effect_v those_o qualification_n in_o the_o soul_n too_o ans_fw-fr 2._o second_o we_o can_v evidence_n our_o union_n by_o any_o thing_n inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v not_o by_o any_o gracious_a quality_n habit_n inclination_n or_o disposition_n that_o be_v infuse_v from_o god_n into_o the_o soul_n the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n and_o dwell_v in_o it_o be_v as_o insufficient_a to_o manifest_v and_o evidence_n this_o interest_n in_o christ_n as_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o soul_n i_o mean_v all_o holy_a disposition_n and_o inclination_n that_o be_v communicate_v to_o any_o soul_n and_o that_o upon_o these_o ground_n i._o in_o regard_n of_o the_o near_a similitude_n and_o likeness_n of_o counterfeit_n quality_n and_o grace_n to_o all_o those_o holy_a quality_n and_o grace_n and_o habit_n that_o can_v be_v discover_v in_o a_o soul_n the_o devil_n have_v his_o artist_n at_o work_n as_o well_o as_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v at_o work_n and_o there_o be_v no_o precious_a jewel_n of_o grace_n the_o spirit_n frame_v in_o the_o soul_n but_o the_o devil_n artist_n can_v counterseit_v a_o jewel_n of_o as_o near_o similitude_n as_o possible_a only_o to_o delude_v poor_a soul_n yea_o there_o be_v such_o a_o nearness_n of_o likeness_n in_o those_o false_a disposition_n to_o those_o true_a precious_a holy_a quality_n as_o the_o imperfect_a sight_n of_o the_o soul_n can_v possible_o discern_v the_o difference_n when_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v dark_a as_o to_o instance_n in_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n which_o be_v a_o emptiness_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o all_o confidence_n in_o itself_o be_v nothing_o in_o its_o own_o eye_n mark_v what_o a_o near_a counterfeit_n the_o devil_n artist_n can_v make_v curse_a pride_n of_o spirit_n so_o as_o it_o can_v scarce_o be_v discern_v nay_o so_o near_o as_o the_o soul_n common_o mistake_v a_o soul_n be_v convince_v of_o sin_n and_o move_v to_o accept_v of_o the_o lord_n christ_n tender_v now_o come_v the_o devil_n what_o such_o a_o curse_a wretch_n as_o thou_o be_v receive_v the_o lord_n
poor_a tremble_a soul_n about_o the_o cause_n of_o his_o fear_n and_o distemper_n of_o heart_n the_o spirit_n come_v and_o expostulate_v with_o the_o soul_n why_o be_v thou_o so_o afraid_a thou_o tremble_v soul_n why_o do_v stand_v shake_v like_o a_o leaf_n in_o the_o forest_n shake_v with_o the_o wind_n why_o be_v thy_o heart_n so_o perplex_v say_v the_o spirit_n christ_n will_v receive_v thou_o if_o thou_o be_v willing_a to_o receive_v than_o it_o may_v be_v the_o passion_n of_o fear_n be_v allay_v and_o the_o soul_n bring_v to_o close_v with_o the_o tender_a of_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v to_o a_o holy_a fear_n and_o tremble_a lay_v his_o mouth_n in_o the_o dust_n before_o god_n think_v himself_o worthy_a to_o go_v into_o the_o pit_n of_o woe_n for_o ever_o yet_o yield_v to_o receive_v what_o the_o lord_n propound_v in_o christ_n a_o four_o distemper_n be_v over_o much_o jealousy_n jealousy_n of_o god_n and_o jealousy_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n distemper_n dark_a distemper_n the_o soul_n be_v exceed_o prone_a out_o of_o measure_n to_o a_o strange_a unheard_a of_o jealousy_n of_o god_n to_o have_v evil_a surmising_n of_o god_n look_v to_o some_o profane_a one_o 1._o they_o have_v such_o evil_a surmising_n as_o they_o suspect_v god_n in_o his_o be_v psal_n 14.1_o the_o fool_n have_v say_v in_o his_o heart_n there_o be_v no_o god_n 2._o a_o second_o sort_n surmise_v that_o god_n regard_v not_o the_o commission_n of_o sin_n so_o as_o other_o will_v persuade_v they_o like_o those_o psal_n 50_o 21._o that_o think_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o themselves_o they_o think_v there_o need_v be_v no_o such_o strictness_n to_o go_v to_o heaven_n as_o other_o will_v make_v toem_n believe_v that_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o thou_o think_v i_o be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o thyself_o thou_o think_v i_o will_v admit_v thou_o into_o heaven_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o transgression_n thou_o live_v in_o 3._o other_o surmise_v that_o god_n be_v a_o hard_a master_n one_o that_o put_v heavy_a yoke_n upon_o the_o neck_n of_o his_o people_n that_o they_o can_v be_v able_a to_o bear_v they_o think_v it_o a_o heavy_a yoke_n that_o they_o can_v take_v none_o of_o their_o curse_a pleasure_n and_o delight_n and_o therefore_o they_o have_v as_o good_a be_v out_o of_o the_o world_n shall_v they_o come_v to_o that_o near_a close_n and_o join_v with_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o 4._o a_o four_o sort_n surmise_v that_o god_n will_v accept_v of_o they_o though_o they_o go_v on_o in_o the_o way_n of_o iniquity_n if_o they_o repent_v at_o last_o 5._o a_o five_o sort_n be_v the_o formal_a civil_a one_o who_o think_v god_n will_v be_v satisfy_v if_o they_o pay_v every_o man_n his_o own_o and_o do_v none_o any_o wrong_n and_o perform_v the_o duty_n of_o god_n worship_n he_o require_v at_o their_o hand_n 6._o a_o six_o sort_n be_v those_o that_o be_v detain_v from_o god_n by_o a_o distemper_n of_o unbelief_n unbelief_n can_v think_v that_o the_o love_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v extend_v to_o the_o worst_a of_o sinner_n nay_o say_v the_o soul_n the_o word_n of_o god_n have_v declare_v the_o contrary_a all_o shall_v not_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o lovingkindness_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n therefore_o those_o expresion_n of_o his_o love_n belong_v not_o to_o i_o say_v the_o soul_n now_o there_o be_v two_o way_n how_o this_o distemper_n come_v thus_o to_o prevail_v and_o there_o be_v two_o or_o three_o sad_a effect_n it_o have_v in_o the_o heart_n 1._o this_o distemper_n proceed_v from_o another_o distemper_n even_o as_o bad_a and_o that_o be_v from_o a_o sensual_a judgement_n maintain_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o glorious_a thing_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v inevident_a unto_o the_o eye_n of_o sense_n yea_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o reason_n be_v thing_n the_o eye_n of_o man_n as_o man_n never_o see_v nor_o the_o ear_n of_o man_n as_o man_n never_o hear_v nor_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n as_o man_n never_o conceive_v a_o man_n must_v needs_o pass_v a_o false_a judgement_n upon_o they_o when_o he_o judge_v by_o a_o sensual_a judgement_n and_o say_v with_o nicodemus_n how_o can_v these_o thing_n be_v what_o to_o have_v such_o iniquity_n and_o rebellion_n cast_v by_o into_o the_o bottom_n of_o the_o sea_n and_o never_o remember_v any_o more_o to_o have_v my_o pollute_a soul_n look_v upon_o as_o righteous_a as_o a_o angel_n itself_o by_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n how_o can_v it_o be_v now_o by_o judge_v the_o glorious_a mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n thus_o by_o a_o sensual_a judgement_n the_o soul_n come_v to_o be_v jealous_a and_o suspicious_a of_o god_n that_o it_o can_v be_v that_o god_n intend_v such_o love_n towards_o his_o soul_n as_o he_o manifest_v in_o his_o expression_n 2._o this_o jealousy_n arise_v from_o the_o soul_n measure_v god_n way_n by_o its_o own_o way_n according_a to_o this_o principle_n the_o soul_n think_v if_o any_o man_n shall_v offer_v such_o injury_n to_o i_o as_o i_o have_v do_v to_o god_n i_o may_v profess_v love_n but_o i_o can_v never_o forget_v he_o therefore_o he_o conclude_v the_o lord_n can_v never_o forget_v those_o injury_n his_o soul_n have_v offer_v to_o he_o but_o god_n tell_v we_o isa_n 55.7_o his_o way_n be_v above_o our_o way_n and_o his_o thought_n above_o our_o thought_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v do_v not_o conceive_v because_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o man_n to_o pardon_v so_o abundant_o that_o therefore_o i_o will_v not_o now_o in_o judge_a god_n way_n according_a to_o our_o way_n this_o jealousy_n prevail_v and_o do_v produce_v these_o sad_a effect_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o prevent_v the_o soul_n discern_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o promise_n 1._o by_o this_o distemper_n there_o be_v groundless_a conclusion_n draw_v up_o by_o the_o soul_n against_o itself_o the_o soul_n once_o entertain_v jealous_a thought_n of_o god_n seldom_o stay_v there_o but_o jealousy_n like_o a_o canker_n eat_v off_o more_o and_o more_o the_o good_a thought_n it_o shall_v have_v of_o god_n till_o at_o last_o it_o draw_v full_a conclusion_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v no_o good_a thought_n at_o all_o towards_o it_o the_o soul_n common_o proceed_v from_o care_n to_o fear_v from_o fear_n to_o jealousy_n and_o from_o jealous_a suspicion_n to_o hard_a conclusion_n 2._o this_o distemper_n cause_v a_o evil_a eye_n in_o the_o soul_n i_o mean_v this_o he_o draw_v a_o evil_a conclusion_n from_o all_o god_n work_n let_v god_n vouchsafe_v precious_a revelation_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o will_n through_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o he_o while_o the_o heart_n remain_v under_o this_o distemper_n what_o say_v the_o heart_n i_o be_o afraid_a it_o be_v but_o to_o harden_v i_o i_o be_o afraid_a it_o be_v to_o increase_v my_o condemnation_n let_v god_n take_v away_o his_o ordinance_n again_o and_o there_o be_v as_o ill_a a_o construction_n make_v of_o that_o the_o soul_n under_o the_o jealousy_n present_o conclude_v iâ—_n if_o the_o lord_n intend_v any_o good_a to_o his_o soul_n he_o will_v let_v he_o use_v the_o mean_n but_o say_v the_o soul_n i_o have_v abuse_v the_o mean_n and_o now_o be_o deprive_v of_o it_o and_o therefore_o now_o i_o fear_v there_o be_v no_o hope_n again_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o the_o soul_n outward_o if_o the_o lord_n lie_v affliction_n upon_o he_o now_o i_o may_v see_v indeed_o say_v he_o that_o the_o lord_n be_v angry_a the_o lord_n indignation_n be_v kindle_v against_o i_o for_o my_o sin_n and_o i_o know_v not_o but_o it_o may_v be_v a_o beginning_n of_o my_o everlasting_a torment_n and_o the_o soul_n never_o search_v whether_o it_o may_v out_o of_o faithfulness_n that_o the_o lord_n come_v thus_o to_o chastise_v outward_o according_a to_o that_o in_o ps_n 119.95_o or_o let_v the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v prosperity_n outward_o to_o such_o a_o soul_n ten_o to_o one_o as_o sad_a construction_n be_v make_v of_o such_o deal_n of_o god_n too_o 3._o it_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o rely_v upon_o sight_n and_o sense_n alone_o in_o its_o search_n and_o seek_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o jealous_a heart_n will_v trust_v god_n no_o further_o than_o he_o see_v he_o so_o that_o hereby_o the_o soul_n remain_v under_o a_o impossibility_n of_o attain_v any_o assurance_n to_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n by_o this_o the_o soul_n do_v even_o renounce_v the_o use_n of_o faith_n now_o the_o spirit_n seek_v to_o remove_v this_o distemper_n and_o to_o bring_v the_o heart_n into_o a_o sweet_a confidence_n of_o god_n and_o
agent_n a_o outward_a agent_n upon_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o first_o act_n of_o believe_v and_o then_o take_v up_o its_o habitation_n in_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o soul_n believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n but_o reason_n itself_o be_v sufficient_a confutation_n of_o those_o imagination_n reason_n will_v tell_v we_o of_o a_o impossibility_n of_o a_o man_n mere_o unregenerate_a to_o put_v forth_o a_o act_n mere_o spiritual_a reason_n will_v tell_v we_o a_o habit_n or_o disposition_n must_v go_v before_o there_o be_v a_o act_n a_o tree_n there_o must_v be_v before_o there_o can_v be_v fruit_n and_o then_o also_o the_o spirit_n seal_v of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v declare_v to_o follow_v at_o least_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n the_o soul_n believe_v it_o can_v be_v that_o by_o the_o spirit_n seal_v speak_v of_o in_o these_o scripture_n shall_v be_v mean_v the_o infusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n grace_n into_o the_o soul_n it_o must_v be_v something_o beside_o the_o grace_n infuse_v ii_o all_o kind_n of_o holy_a habit_n or_o disposition_n that_o be_v infuse_v into_o any_o one_o believe_v soul_n be_v infuse_v in_o order_n of_o nature_n before_o the_o soul_n believe_v now_o if_o the_o spirit_n seal_v be_v only_o the_o infusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n grace_n than_o every_o believe_a soul_n shall_v have_v the_o same_o seal_n of_o the_o spirit_n whereas_o experience_n bring_v testimony_n enough_o to_o the_o contrary_n iii_o the_o spirit_n seal_v mention_v in_o those_o former_a scripture_n be_v attribute_v in_o a_o particular_a manner_n to_o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_n with_o our_o spirit_n it_o do_v not_o say_v only_o the_o spirit_n which_o may_v have_v be_v mean_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o the_o spirit_n itself_o even_o by_o a_o personal_a act_n the_o spirit_n atte_v to_o we_o that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v also_o in_o eph._n 1.13_o 14._o in_o who_o also_o after_o you_o believe_v you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n it_o be_v translate_v which_o but_o it_o be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o the_o original_a to_o say_v who_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n the_o relative_a be_v in_o the_o person_n of_o the_o spirit_n not_o the_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n so_o that_o it_o stand_v as_o a_o undoubted_a truth_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v add_v unto_o believe_a soul_n for_o their_o abundant_a consolation_n even_o a_o witness_n from_o his_o own_o bless_a spirit_n of_o their_o admittance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o their_o cleave_v to_o he_o beside_o all_o those_o other_o bless_a necessary_a work_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n upon_o their_o soul_n now_o i_o must_v further_o observe_v that_o this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v not_o pertain_v peculiarly_a and_o sole_o unto_o faith_n as_o have_v reference_n unto_o faith_n only_o and_o to_o the_o beget_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n but_o by_o divine_a appointment_n this_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n pertain_v also_o to_o sense_n to_o spiritual_a sense_n or_o spiritual_a knowledge_n and_o do_v beget_v assurance_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_v as_o well_o as_o it_o beget_v assurance_n of_o faith_n yet_o there_o be_v such_o a_o sweet_a mixture_n in_o this_o bless_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o it_o do_v at_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n raise_v the_o soul_n to_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o assurance_n of_o sense_n and_o feel_v and_o indeed_o such_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o it_o never_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n in_o any_o measure_n of_o clearness_n that_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n but_o the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_n at_o the_o same_o time_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v actual_o admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n yet_o because_o we_o be_v speak_v at_o present_a of_o the_o manner_n how_o the_o spirit_n do_v first_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n certain_o and_o infallible_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o so_o assure_v the_o soul_n faith_n of_o union_n we_o must_v first_o speak_v of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n in_o reference_n unto_o faith_n though_o we_o must_v also_o for_o open_v the_o full_a work_n of_o attestation_n open_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o spirit_n attest_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v for_o the_o open_n the_o first_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n in_o reference_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n to_o assure_v faith_n of_o its_o union_n faith_n the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n i_o shall_v open_v to_o you_o two_o thing_n first_o those_o respect_n in_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v appoint_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o be_v add_v to_o all_o the_o former_a work_n as_o a_o redundancy_n of_o his_o mercy_n and_o love_n to_o the_o despicable_a soul_n second_o we_o shall_v open_v what_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n be_v for_o the_o first_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o respect_n why_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o work_n of_o attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n after_o he_o have_v persuade_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v thus_o powerful_o with_o confidence_n i._o in_o respect_n of_o the_o multitude_n of_o fear_n that_o remain_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n after_o the_o clear_a evidence_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o most_o full_a persuasion_n of_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n to_o believe_v there_o be_v three_o kind_n of_o fear_n that_o still_o remain_v in_o some_o degree_n both_o in_o the_o seed_n of_o they_o and_o in_o the_o fruit_n of_o they_o though_o none_o of_o they_o remain_v in_o their_o absolute_a dominion_n 1._o there_o be_v both_o the_o seed_n and_o fruit_n of_o slavish_a fear_n though_o through_o the_o mighty_a exciting_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n follow_v the_o spirit_n irradiation_n and_o manifestation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v raise_v to_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o cleave_v to_o he_o yet_o there_o be_v not_o a_o perfection_n of_o confidence_n and_o it_o be_v only_o perfect_a confidence_n that_o beget_v perfect_a love_n and_o only_o perfect_a love_n that_o cast_v out_o slavish_a fear_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o pure_a natural_a fear_n that_o still_o remain_v the_o matter_n of_o believe_v be_v of_o such_o high_a concernment_n that_o the_o very_a remembrance_n of_o it_o strike_v the_o soul_n with_o some_o natural_a fear_n it_o be_v the_o venture_v the_o precious_a immortal_a soul_n for_o eternity_n and_o unless_o there_o be_v a_o perfection_n of_o confidence_n a_o soul_n can_v be_v void_a of_o fear_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o spiritual_a holy_a fear_n that_o remain_v also_o in_o the_o believe_a soul_n after_o the_o strength_n of_o believe_v the_o soul_n vision_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n inflame_v the_o believe_a soul_n heart_n with_o love_n unto_o union_n and_o communion_n and_o proportionable_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o soul_n love_n so_o be_v the_o soul_n fear_v that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o soul_n fear_v the_o loss_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n wherein_o he_o love_v union_n and_o communion_n and_o this_o fear_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o go_v beyond_o its_o bound_n and_o to_o suspect_v the_o loss_n of_o it_o where_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o suspicion_n ii_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o atte_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o soul_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o natural_a distrust_n that_o in_o some_o degree_n remain_v in_o every_o believe_a soul_n though_o raise_v to_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v not_o only_o a_o indisposition_n natural_o in_o the_o soul_n to_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n by_o reason_n of_o its_o inability_n full_o to_o comprehend_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o lord_n fulfil_v such_o a_o word_n into_o his_o bosom_n but_o also_o there_o be_v a_o natural_a disposition_n in_o dwell_v in_o every_o soul_n that_o incline_v the_o heart_n strong_o to_o give_v the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n the_o lie_n to_o distrust_v that_o bless_a record_n that_o the_o lord_n bear_v of_o his_o own_o son_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o holy_a jealousy_n that_o possess_v every_o believe_a soul_n lest_o his_o corrupt_a deceitful_a heart_n shall_v delude_v he_o every_o believe_a soul_n be_v so_o conscious_a to_o himself_o of_o a_o multiplicity_n and_o variety_n of_o cozen_v delude_v trick_n that_o his_o corrupt_a heart_n have_v put_v upon_o
he_o from_o time_n to_o time_n as_o it_o dare_v not_o trust_v its_o heart_n when_o it_o deal_v most_o plain_o and_o upright_o now_o from_o this_o holy_a jealousy_n there_o arise_v a_o difficulty_n to_o settle_v and_o establish_v the_o heart_n and_o to_o free_v it_o from_o all_o waver_a in_o its_o conscience_n now_o in_o respect_n of_o this_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n that_o the_o soul_n may_v have_v a_o full_a satisfaction_n that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o inward_a misgiving_n of_o heart_n in_o its_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o it_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o its_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v to_o he_o iv_o there_o be_v a_o natural_a unconstancy_n that_o possess_v every_o such_o believe_a soul_n in_o some_o degree_n ever_o since_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v draw_v from_o that_o first_o bless_a centre_n it_o have_v natural_o be_v unconstant_a in_o all_o its_o resting_n now_o from_o this_o unconstancy_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o heart_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o have_v its_o confidence_n shake_v when_o the_o spirit_n have_v raise_v it_o to_o a_o high_a degree_n and_o in_o respect_n of_o that_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o add_v the_o work_n of_o attestation_n for_o the_o perfect_a establish_n of_o the_o waver_a soul_n v._o there_o be_v all_o the_o concurrent_a rage_n of_o hell_n employ_v against_o every_o soul_n attain_v that_o confidence_n of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o now_o shall_v there_o not_o be_v a_o witness_n from_o heaven_n or_o great_a authority_n in_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n than_o any_o dictate_v of_o the_o counsel_n of_o hell_n the_o believe_a soul_n will_v soon_o call_v in_o question_n the_o precious_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o incline_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o dictate_v of_o hell_n counsel_n therefore_o in_o respect_n to_o this_o lest_o the_o believe_a soul_n through_o this_o mean_n shall_v be_v robe_v of_o that_o precious_a joy_n and_o peace_n in_o believe_v that_o the_o lord_n intend_v the_o lord_n have_v determine_v that_o his_o bless_a spirit_n shall_v become_v the_o soul_n comforter_n by_o way_n of_o attestation_n to_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n acceptance_n into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o the_o soul_n cleave_v to_o he_o that_o so_o the_o witness_n of_o heaven_n may_v be_v of_o high_a authority_n to_o the_o soul_n than_o all_o those_o curse_a lie_v dictate_v of_o hell_n frequent_o propound_v to_o that_o believe_a soul_n now_o the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v what_o this_o attestation_n or_o witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n be_v be_v what_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n be_v i_o conceive_v that_o this_o attestation_n unto_o faith_n be_v a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n dart_v into_o the_o understanding_n whereby_o the_o spirit_n clear_o demonstrate_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o lord_n approbation_n of_o the_o soul_n act_v of_o believe_v or_o confidence_n and_o that_o with_o such_o a_o unspeakable_a divine_a authority_n as_o be_v irresistible_a by_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o hereby_o the_o soul_n be_v establish_v in_o a_o plerophery_n or_o more_o than_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n there_o be_v four_o thing_n in_o this_o description_n that_o you_o must_v observe_v i._o this_o attestation_n unto_o faith_n be_v a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n dart_v into_o the_o understanding_n that_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o witness_n this_o be_v as_o common_o call_v by_o divine_n and_z christians_o a_o secret_a voice_n or_o a_o sweet_a whisper_a of_o the_o spirit_n and_o thence_o many_o have_v sad_o mistake_v and_o conceive_v that_o witness_n to_o be_v some_o strange_a kind_n of_o revelation_n by_o a_o voice_n from_o heaven_n but_o indeed_o it_o be_v therefore_o speak_v of_o as_o a_o secret_a voice_n because_o it_o be_v a_o secret_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v right_o call_v the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n witness_v that_o be_v bear_v record_n give_v a_o testimony_n now_o to_o give_v a_o testimony_n be_v to_o declare_v a_o thing_n verbal_o now_o indeed_o in_o this_o respect_n it_o be_v not_o unfit_o call_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o a_o voice_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o expression_n of_o the_o inward_a conception_n of_o the_o mind_n by_o word_n now_o by_o this_o secret_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n dart_v into_o the_o understanding_n the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v secret_o express_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n ii_o this_o attestation_n or_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n be_v such_o a_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n as_o do_v clearly_n and_o infallible_o and_o unquestionable_o demonstrate_v or_o manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n the_o lord_n approbation_n of_o his_o act_n of_o believe_v or_o of_o his_o act_n of_o confidence_n all_o the_o unquiet_a toss_n and_o agitation_n and_o perplex_v waver_n of_o soul_n from_o what_o occasion_n soever_o they_o have_v their_o original_a in_o some_o kind_n of_o doubt_v whether_o it_o be_v according_a to_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n that_o their_o forlorn_a despicable_a soul_n shall_v be_v so_o confident_a of_o their_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o their_o adhere_n to_o he_o now_o therefore_o the_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v into_o the_o understanding_n be_v on_o purpose_n to_o clear_v and_o make_v it_o out_o of_o all_o doubt_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v infinite_o please_v to_o the_o bless_a god_n that_o even_o that_o particular_a soul_n shall_v be_v so_o confident_a of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v the_o matter_n itself_o that_o the_o spirit_n do_v testify_v to_o the_o soul_n or_o the_o testimony_n it_o give_v iii_o you_o must_v observe_v in_o the_o description_n that_o this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v such_o a_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n that_o so_o clear_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o lord_n approbation_n of_o his_o act_n of_o believe_v or_o his_o act_n of_o confidence_n that_o it_o carry_v along_o with_o it_o a_o inconceivable_a divine_a authority_n it_o be_v such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_a as_o have_v such_o a_o impression_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n upon_o it_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o the_o heart_n to_o make_v resistance_n iv_o observe_v in_o the_o description_n that_o it_o establish_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o plerophery_n a_o more_o than_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n a_o triumph_v confidence_n that_o be_v the_o peculiar_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o this_o testimony_n that_o the_o spirit_n give_v it_o fix_v the_o waver_a unconstant_a soul_n this_o be_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n now_o we_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o sense_n but_o there_o be_v a_o objection_n will_v be_v cast_v in_o that_o must_v first_o be_v open_v whereby_o the_o depth_n of_o this_o unspeakable_a mystery_n may_v be_v something_o more_o unfolded_a obj._n some_o soul_n may_v say_v if_o the_o spirit_n give_v no_o other_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n than_o this_o that_o his_o particular_a soul_n shall_v be_v certain_o and_o infallible_o accept_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o and_o produce_v no_o other_o confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o this_o that_o i_o even_o i_o this_o unlovely_a soul_n of_o i_o in_o adhere_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v infallible_o have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o to_o all_o eternity_n then_o say_v the_o soul_n even_o after_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n it_o may_v remain_v doubtful_a of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n still_o see_v by_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n the_o soul_n be_v not_o assure_v of_o his_o own_o cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n and_o see_v the_o certainty_n that_o the_o spirit_n give_v by_o the_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v its_o whole_a dependence_n upon_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o soul_n cleave_v and_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n ans_fw-fr 1._o for_o answer_v to_o this_o grand_a objection_n first_o when_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n and_o he_o be_v assure_v that_o his_o particular_a unlovely_a forlorn_a soul_n shall_v certain_o and_o infallible_o be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o rest_n upon_o christ_n for_o union_n it_o be_v not_o then_o possible_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o solid_a ground_n
into_o union_n through_o his_o adhere_n to_o he_o ii_o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n excitation_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n into_o exercise_n be_v general_n and_o universal_a now_o there_o be_v strength_n to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o adhere_v unto_o christ_n tender_v as_o well_o as_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v tender_v and_o the_o spirit_n exciting_a work_n be_v thus_o general_a and_o universal_a it_o can_v be_v but_o the_o heart_n shall_v be_v establish_v in_o the_o constant_a expectation_n of_o the_o one_o as_o of_o the_o other_o to_o be_v as_o confident_a of_o the_o soul_n everlasting_a cleave_v unto_o christ_n as_o of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n upon_o his_o cleave_v to_o he_o iii_o in_o regard_n the_o spirit_n do_v adjoyn_v a_o testimony_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o do_v cleave_v unto_o christ_n to_o its_o testimony_n that_o it_o give_v to_o its_o faith_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v admit_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n infallible_o in_o cleave_v unto_o he_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o bless_a a_o comforter_n that_o it_o send_v down_o live_v stream_n of_o refresh_v both_o to_o faith_n and_o spiritual_a sense_n when_o it_o have_v once_o testify_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n that_o unquestionable_o and_o infallible_o that_o particular_a soul_n shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o his_o embrace_v of_o he_o it_o then_o also_o testify_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o have_v embrace_v christ_n and_o that_o the_o soul_n be_v already_o actual_o instate_v in_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o now_o have_v open_v the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n sense_n the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o sense_n the_o second_o act_n of_o the_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v its_o attestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n spiritual_a sense_n in_o this_o we_o must_v open_v three_o thing_n to_o you_o first_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n beside_o the_o former_a record_n that_o it_o give_v unto_o faith_n second_o in_o what_o respect_v this_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v add_v unto_o the_o spirit_n witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n three_o what_o this_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n be_v first_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n may_v appear_v from_o that_o one_o place_n alone_o rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_n mith_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n this_o hold_v forth_o that_o there_o must_v be_v a_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n above_o and_o beside_o those_o holy_a disposition_n or_o precious_a gracious_a habit_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v communicate_v unto_o soul_n and_o therefore_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n now_o from_o hence_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n in_o that_o the_o spirit_n be_v say_v to_o give_v a_o particular_a testimony_n unto_o particular_a soul_n of_o their_o actual_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o spirit_n witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n that_o we_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o determinate_a sentence_n that_o the_o spirit_n pass_v upon_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o gospel_n reveal_v in_o general_a unto_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o for_o that_o be_v only_o thus_o that_o thou_o or_o thou_o or_o that_o particular_a soul_n in_o his_o accept_n the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v shall_v infallible_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n which_o be_v still_o a_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n but_o the_o scripture_n speak_v it_o plain_o the_o spirit_n give_v testimony_n of_o their_o soul_n real_a accept_n of_o jesus_n christ_n tender_v the_o spirit_n testimony_n of_o say_v can_v be_v only_o thus_o much_o to_o witness_v from_o the_o promise_n that_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a soul_n shall_v be_v adopt_v to_o be_v a_o child_n of_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n in_o his_o accept_n the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v but_o this_o testimony_n be_v a_o witness_n to_o the_o particular_a soul_n of_o its_o actual_a adoption_n already_o that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n therefore_o this_o must_v be_v a_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n in_o regard_n the_o proper_a object_n of_o faith_n be_v to_o receive_v what_o be_v promise_v not_o receive_v what_o be_v do_v 2._o the_o spirit_n be_v say_v to_o be_v a_o co-witness_n with_o believer_n spirit_n that_o they_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n and_o adopt_a son_n and_o daughter_n of_o god_n through_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n say_v the_o original_a the_o spirit_n do_v bare_a witness_n together_o with_o our_o spirit_n so_o that_o the_o spirit_n be_v say_v here_o to_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o same_o thing_n that_o the_o soul_n own_o spirit_n that_o be_v the_o renew_a understanding_n or_o the_o sanctify_a conscience_n bear_v witness_n to_o now_o the_o renew_a conscience_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n can_v only_o bear_v witness_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n and_o therefore_o the_o spiris_fw-la witness_v the_o same_o thing_n that_o the_o renew_a conscience_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n do_v witness_v it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o this_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v be_v a_o witness_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n iii_o it_o appear_v from_o the_o peculiar_a office_n to_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v destinate_a the_o spirit_n be_v appoint_v to_o be_v the_o comforter_n the_o most_o superlative_a eminent_a comforter_n now_o shall_v not_o the_o spirit_n witness_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v spiritual_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o can_v not_o comfort_v in_o the_o high_a manner_n there_o be_v three_o degree_n of_o spiritual_a comfort_n 1._o a_o soul_n apprehension_n that_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v tender_v to_o his_o despicable_a lose_a soul_n there_o be_v a_o degree_n of_o comfort_n from_o the_o possibility_n that_o his_o poor_a lose_v sink_v soul_n may_v be_v admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n but_o alas_o this_o be_v weak_a 2._o there_o be_v the_o soul_n actual_a embrace_v this_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v there_o be_v infinite_a sweetness_n and_o peace_n in_o that_o very_a believe_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n though_o as_o yet_o there_o be_v no_o sensibleness_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o that_o his_o own_o believe_v and_o so_o no_o sensibleness_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n 3._o which_o be_v the_o top_n stone_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n and_o that_o be_v the_o sensibleness_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n through_o believe_v now_o if_o the_o spirit_n shall_v not_o give_v such_o a_o witness_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n as_o this_o to_o witness_v to_o the_o soul_n actual_a close_n with_o christ_n in_o union_n and_o communion_n the_o bless_a spririt_n who_o be_v send_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n on_o purpose_n to_o be_v a_o comfort_n to_o believe_a soul_n shall_v not_o comfort_v in_o the_o high_a manner_n he_o shall_v not_o be_v the_o most_o eminent_a comforter_n ii_o the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o addition_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o the_o testimony_n that_o it_o give_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n there_o be_v five_o or_o six_o reason_n of_o it_o i._o to_o prevent_v the_o soul_n receive_v that_o determination_n of_o its_o corrupt_a conscience_n concern_v its_o everlasting_a estate_n in_o all_o the_o various_a act_n of_o conscience_n as_o a_o law_n witness_v and_o judge_n it_o be_v corrupt_v by_o virtue_n of_o our_o first_o transgression_n so_o that_o in_o whatsoever_o state_n the_o soul_n remain_v when_o its_o conscience_n work_v according_a to_o its_o natural_a disposition_n and_o inclination_n it_o bear_v false_a witness_n and_o pass_v false_a judgement_n now_o therefore_o do_v the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o add_v the_o spirit_n testimony_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n that_o the_o false_a sentence_n that_o conscience_n pass_v upon_o the_o soul_n may_v not_o be_v receive_v by_o it_o there_o be_v three_o respect_n wherein_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o add_v the_o spirit_n testimony_n to_o sense_n unto_o the_o the_o testimony_n it_o give_v to_o faith_n 1._o the_o depravedness_n and_o perverseness_n of_o conscience_n in_o its_o testimony_n 2._o the_o unavoidableness_n of_o the_o soul_n hear_v that_o testimony_n that_o conscience_n give_v when_o the_o soul_n be_v once_o alive_a through_o the_o life_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 3._o
the_o readiness_n of_o the_o soul_n natural_o to_o concur_v and_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o corrupt_a conscience_n while_o it_o bear_v witness_v against_o faith_n the_o reason_n be_v evident_a in_o regard_n the_o full_a bent_n of_o the_o spirit_n stand_v to_o judge_v of_o all_o thing_n according_a to_o sense_n and_o reason_n now_o therefore_o the_o lord_n add_v this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o give_v matter_n for_o conscience_n to_o build_v a_o new_a judgement_n upon_o concern_v the_o soul_n everlasting_a estate_n ii_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n to_o its_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n unto_o christ_n may_v every_o way_n counterpoise_v the_o evidence_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v receive_v of_o its_o separation_n from_o christ_n there_o be_v three_o evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o his_o separation_n from_o christ_n and_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n do_v parallel_v the_o soul_n with_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n answerable_a to_o those_o three_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n separation_n from_o christ_n 1._o there_o be_v the_o bless_a word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n determine_v that_o every_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o adam_n be_v by_o merit_n and_o desert_n everlasting_o separate_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o actual_o the_o first_o moment_n of_o his_o be_v void_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n 2._o there_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n work_v the_o contrary_a opposite_a rebellious_a work_n of_o the_o soul_n against_o christ_n do_v evident_o declare_v that_o there_o be_v no_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o any_o soul_n natural_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o john_n 3.8_o he_o that_o commit_v sin_n that_o be_v with_o full_a purpose_n and_o bent_n of_o spirit_n with_o a_o full_a determination_n of_o his_o judgement_n and_o will_n be_v of_o the_o devil_n 3._o there_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n found_v upon_o these_o contrary_a working_n of_o the_o heart_n unto_o christ_n that_o a_o soul_n be_v separate_v from_o christ_n now_o in_o opposition_n to_o these_o three_o the_o spirit_n give_v testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o even_o such_o a_o particular_a despicable_a lose_a sinner_n shall_v infallible_o in_o his_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n enjoy_v everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o then_o the_o spirit_n add_v this_o testimony_n also_o unto_o sense_n and_o feeling_n whereby_o he_o make_v the_o soul_n discern_v even_o from_o the_o move_n and_o work_v of_o his_o heart_n towards_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o he_o and_o from_o thence_o conscience_n can_v but_o bear_v witness_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v actual_o unite_v unto_o christ_n iii_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o make_v a_o super-addition_n of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o sense_n that_o the_o whole_a bless_a word_n of_o god_n may_v sweet_o concur_v together_o in_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o for_o example_n that_o word_n in_o 1_o john_n 4.13_o hereby_o we_o know_v that_o god_n dwell_v in_o we_o and_o we_o in_o he_o that_o be_v that_o we_o have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n because_o he_o have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o spirit_n this_o word_n bear_v not_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o it_o bear_v testimony_n unto_o the_o believe_a soul_n sense_n that_o be_v unite_v when_o the_o soul_n be_v sensible_a that_o the_o spirit_n be_v convey_v from_o god_n into_o its_o bosom_n likewise_o that_o other_o word_n in_o 2_o cor._n 13.5_o examine_v yourselves_o whether_o you_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n prove_v your_o own_o self_n know_v you_o not_o your_o own_o self_n how_o that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v in_o you_o that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o the_o life_n and_o grace_n and_o holiness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v communicate_v to_o you_o that_o jesus_n christ_n act_n and_o work_n in_o you_o and_o through_o you_o know_v you_o not_o this_o except_o you_o be_v reprobate_n now_o this_o word_n bear_v no_o testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n because_o the_o indwel_a of_o christ_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v not_o the_o object_n of_o faith_n but_o the_o object_n of_o spiritual_a sight_n iv_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o believe_v soul_n may_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o their_o everlasting_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n here_o below_o according_a to_o that_o eph._n 1.13_o you_o be_v seal_v with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o promise_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n until_o the_o redemption_n of_o the_o purchase_a possession_n so_o in_o 2_o cor._n 1.22_o who_o have_v also_o seal_v we_o and_o give_v we_o the_o earnest_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n the_o earnest_n import_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o lord_n give_v the_o soul_n part_n of_o his_o everlasting_a portion_n before_o hand_n two_o that_o the_o lord_n give_v that_o small_a portion_n as_o a_o pledge_n to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o full_a inheritance_n now_o in_o the_o spirit_n testify_v unto_o sense_n the_o soul_n union_n the_o spirit_n do_v clear_o manifest_v the_o very_a entrance_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n and_o its_o participation_n of_o some_o degree_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n already_o in_o regard_n it_o discover_v some_o of_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v actual_o inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n v._o the_o lord_n superadd_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n unto_o its_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n that_o he_o may_v effect_v the_o full_a degree_n of_o conformity_n to_o his_o whole_a will_n in_o the_o soul_n two_o command_n be_v impossible_a for_o the_o soul_n to_o yield_v a_o perfect_a obedience_n to_o without_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n first_o the_o command_n of_o examine_v and_o prove_v the_o soul_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o christ_n and_o all_o command_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n that_o enjoin_v the_o soul_n to_o examine_v whether_o this_o or_o that_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v in_o the_o soul_n whether_o love_v to_o god_n or_o love_n to_o the_o brethren_n be_v in_o the_o soul_n or_o no_o there_o can_v be_v no_o effectual_a obedience_n to_o any_o command_n of_o that_o nature_n without_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n only_o to_o discover_v all_o its_o precious_a working_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n second_o the_o command_n of_o perpetual_a rejoice_v in_o the_o lord_n can_v not_o be_v effectual_o obey_v without_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n though_o indeed_o believe_v be_v the_o primary_n original_a of_o all_o spiritual_a joy_n yet_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o its_o believe_v be_v a_o necessary_a adjunct_n to_o make_v up_o the_o perfection_n of_o that_o spiritual_a joy_n vi_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o his_o testimony_n to_o faith_n that_o the_o believe_a soul_n may_v be_v fill_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n all_o those_o glorious_a portion_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n whereby_o believer_n be_v describe_v by_o the_o precious_a habit_n of_o grace_n infuse_v into_o their_o heart_n will_v be_v as_o so_o many_o strong_a hold_v for_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n to_o fortify_v in_o against_o the_o believer_n soul_n and_o will_v be_v turn_v by_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n into_o condemn_a sentence_n against_o the_o soul_n so_o as_o the_o precious_a tower_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n will_v be_v always_o batter_v the_o sweet_a stream_n of_o comfort_n will_v always_o meet_v with_o one_o interruption_n or_o other_o in_o their_o flow_a down_o into_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o soul_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n add_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n sense_n what_o the_o spirit_n witness_n be_v unto_o sense_n the_o three_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v what_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v it_o be_v a_o precious_a secret_a immediate_a clear_a and_o authoritative_a irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n or_o confidence_n cause_v the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o believe_v to_o shine_v so_o resplendent_o that_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o
act_n to_o itself_o that_o it_o become_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o soul_n inheritance_n that_o be_v that_o it_o become_v as_o a_o small_a portion_n give_v by_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o hand_n in_o testimony_n that_o it_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o full_a inheritance_n the_o spirit_n be_v such_o a_o earnest_n in_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n three_o way_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n manifest_v its_o own_o presence_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o its_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n in_o discover_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o do_v upright_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n believe_v it_o do_v discover_v holiness_n to_o be_v infuse_v into_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o consequent_o discover_v itself_o to_o have_v take_v up_o its_o habitation_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n so_o that_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o the_o sight_n that_o the_o spirit_n put_v into_o the_o believe_a act_n make_v it_o visible_a to_o his_o own_o eye_n discern_v the_o presence_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o heart_n and_o thus_o indeed_o there_o be_v a_o precious_a earnest_n give_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o in_o regard_v the_o communion_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o believe_a act_n appear_v to_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v begin_v the_o soul_n discern_v jesus_n christ_n and_o himself_o to_o be_v partaker_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o life_n by_o discern_v infallible_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n 3._o in_o regard_v it_o enter_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o very_a fruition_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o become_v indeed_o a_o first_o fruit_n of_o heaven_n give_v it_o actual_a possession_n of_o that_o high_a blessedness_n that_o sanctify_v soul_n shall_v possess_v in_o heaven_n the_o fruition_n of_o it_o consist_v in_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o the_o certain_a knowledge_n that_o it_o have_v of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n second_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n nothing_o though_o it_o be_v possess_v can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v enjoy_v unless_o the_o party_n possess_v of_o it_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o good_a that_o he_o be_v possess_v of_o iii_o the_o three_o thing_n observable_a be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o manifestation_n or_o the_o enlighten_v of_o the_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v a_o precious_a sweet_a consciousness_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n in_o his_o very_a act_n of_o believe_v that_o he_o do_v right_o believe_v it_o be_v by_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o precious_a gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n understanding_n that_o the_o soul_n discern_v by_o faith_n the_o bosom_n of_o that_o bless_a redeemer_n the_o lord_n jesus_n ready_a to_o receive_v his_o loveless_a perish_v sink_a soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o so_o likewise_o by_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n the_o spirit_n make_v the_o soul_n see_v also_o as_o clear_o that_o it_o do_v as_o it_o be_v creep_v into_o the_o open_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n iv_o the_o four_o and_o last_o thing_n observable_a in_o the_o description_n of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o its_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o inseparable_a adjunct_n or_o concomitant_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n that_o be_v the_o determination_n of_o the_o renew_a conscience_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o he_o be_v everlasting_o one_o with_o christ_n this_o be_v proper_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o sense_n whereas_o the_o light_n of_o every_o grace_n though_o they_o be_v luminous_a body_n and_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n be_v such_o a_o small_a light_n in_o itself_o that_o unless_o there_o be_v a_o addition_n by_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n it_o shine_v not_o apparent_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o therefore_o the_o infallible_a testimony_n of_o the_o believer_n own_o spirit_n or_o of_o his_o renew_a understanding_n or_o conscience_n be_v but_o the_o consummation_n or_o the_o consequent_a of_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n yet_o it_o be_v inseparable_a from_o it_o no_o soon_o have_v the_o spirit_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n that_o it_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n but_o the_o renew_a conscience_n answer_v also_o thou_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n the_o witness_n of_o the_o believer_n spirit_n or_o of_o the_o renew_a conscience_n be_v but_o the_o echo_n of_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o lord_n own_o spirit_n according_a to_o rom._n 9.1_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n it_o be_v the_o spirit_n as_o it_o be_v that_o put_v word_n into_o the_o mouth_n of_o renew_a conscience_n it_o do_v but_o answer_v what_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n as_o the_o echo_n answer_v our_o voice_n now_o when_o the_o spirit_n have_v witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n that_o in_o its_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o soul_n shall_v be_v infallible_o admit_v into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o and_o in_o that_o witness_n have_v draw_v out_o the_o believe_a disposition_n to_o act_v in_o its_o strength_n and_o then_o cast_v a_o brightness_n and_o splendour_n upon_o the_o believe_a act_n that_o it_o shine_v thus_o apparent_o in_o the_o soul_n eye_n yea_o so_o apparent_o that_o the_o renew_a conscience_n bear_v witness_v that_o the_o soul_n do_v right_o believe_v then_o do_v the_o soul_n say_v with_o those_o in_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o i_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o love_n that_o the_o father_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n bear_v to_o this_o my_o loveless_n soul_n then_o be_v the_o poor_a waver_a soul_n establish_v and_o settle_v as_o upon_o a_o everlasting_a rock_n the_o rock_n of_o age_n then_o 1._o all_o the_o beginning_n of_o hell_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n be_v past_a all_o the_o condemn_a sentence_n of_o conscience_n that_o he_o be_v wont_a to_o hear_v every_o day_n be_v obliterated_a and_o blot_v out_o i_o mean_v so_o long_o as_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n thus_o continue_v all_o the_o frown_n of_o conscience_n be_v go_v 2._o all_o torment_a fear_n be_v banish_v the_o inward_a perplexity_n anguish_n and_o vexation_n that_o perplex_v the_o soul_n through_o the_o fear_n of_o his_o everlasting_a separation_n from_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n all_o cease_v and_o there_o be_v a_o bless_a calm_a possess_v the_o soul_n and_o then_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v like_o a_o weather-beaten_a ship_n into_o the_o sweet_a and_o most_o commodious_a haven_n of_o rest_n 3._o the_o spirit_n of_o glory_n possess_v the_o believe_a 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first_o therefore_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o though_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o soul_n infallible_a certainty_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v depend_v upon_o this_o attestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o his_o faith_n and_o sense_n yet_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v much_o comfortable_a evidence_n to_o many_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o who_o he_o do_v not_o send_v this_o bless_a spirit_n thus_o to_o avouch_v and_o attest_v to_o their_o soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v by_o those_o four_o former_a precious_a effect_n upon_o the_o believe_a soul_n establish_v their_o soul_n in_o a_o sweet_a soul-chearing_a soul-reviving_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o they_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v the_o whole_a materiality_n
of_o the_o spirit_n witness_v of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n before_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n though_o the_o spirit_n witness_n be_v the_o formality_n as_o i_o may_v call_v it_o its_z that_o which_o give_v the_o be_v of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o to_o sense_n yet_o you_o must_v observe_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o union_n principal_o belong_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n 2._o whatever_o degree_n of_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feel_v any_o such_o believe_a soul_n do_v enjoy_v before_o the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n the_o witness_n unto_o sense_n be_v exceed_o weak_a imperfect_a and_o unsatisfy_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n now_o the_o soul_n conceive_v that_o he_o do_v feel_v his_o heart_n right_o answer_v that_o precious_a tender_a of_o union_n immediate_o again_o fear_v that_o that_o wretched_a curse_a heart_n of_o he_o do_v but_o delude_v and_o deceive_v he_o 3._o you_o must_v observe_v that_o this_o comfortable_a evidence_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o many_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v frequent_o a_o addition_n unto_o faith_n only_o and_o to_o faith_n principal_o and_o indeed_o this_o be_v very_o common_a that_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v thus_o a_o comfortable_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n when_o his_o bless_a pleasure_n be_v to_o withdraw_v all_o evidence_n of_o union_n from_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o that_o bless_a head_n of_o all_o believe_a soul_n the_o lord_n jesus_n mat._n 27.46_o say_v he_o my_o god_n my_o god_n here_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n that_o vouchsafe_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o the_o bless_a father_n but_o the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n be_v total_o want_v why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o 4._o you_o must_v note_v also_o that_o this_o comfortable_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v vouchsafe_v to_o many_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o he_o do_v not_o send_v the_o spirit_n to_o attest_v their_o union_n be_v never_o a_o evidence_n to_o the_o sense_n of_o those_o believe_a soul_n without_o a_o evidence_n unto_o their_o faith_n though_o the_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n have_v no_o such_o dependence_n upon_o the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n but_o it_o may_v consist_v without_o it_o yet_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n unto_o the_o soul_n sense_n have_v a_o entire_a and_o full_a dependence_n upon_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o faith_n that_o it_o can_v consist_v without_o it_o the_o very_a matter_n or_o original_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o believe_a act_n the_o soul_n reliance_n upon_o the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o fulfil_v his_o bless_a word_n offer_v reconciliation_n unto_o every_o unlovely_a sinner_n that_o will_n now_o without_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n of_o that_o soul_n particular_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o believe_a act_n be_v never_o draw_v forth_o in_o the_o believe_a soul_n caution_n 2._o second_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o there_o be_v much_o variety_n in_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n both_o unto_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n it_o do_v witness_n in_o a_o various_a manner_n to_o believe_v soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n 1._o there_o be_v much_o variety_n in_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n unto_o believe_a soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o full_a perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n the_o spirit_n speak_v both_o to_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n only_o by_o a_o secret_a resplendent_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n and_o that_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n have_v various_a degree_n of_o brightness_n wherein_o it_o shine_v in_o a_o various_a manner_n unto_o various_a believe_a soul_n to_o some_o believe_a soul_n that_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v with_o such_o a_o orient_a transcendent_a brightness_n with_o such_o transparent_a heavenly_a glory_n that_o no_o curtain_n of_o darkness_n or_o distrustfulness_n or_o unbelief_n or_o sinful_a jealousy_n can_v keep_v out_o the_o virtue_n of_o that_o precious_a beam_n but_o to_o some_o other_o believe_v soul_n that_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n to_o faith_n or_o light_n to_o sense_n shine_v only_o like_o a_o beam_n of_o the_o sun_n through_o a_o keyhole_n when_o the_o door_n remain_v shut_v still_o there_o be_v a_o threefold_a degree_n of_o its_o clearness_n and_o perspicuity_n that_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o rom._n 5.1_o 2_o 3._o where_o a_o threefold_a effect_n of_o it_o be_v mention_v 1._o there_o be_v such_o a_o testimony_n as_o procure_v rest_n and_o peace_n to_o the_o toss_v perplex_a believe_v soul_n that_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n be_v justify_v by_o faith_n we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n 2._o a_o second_o degree_n we_o rejoice_v in_o hope_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o joy_n and_o contentment_n in_o the_o soul_n rest_n 3._o sometime_o the_o testimony_n be_v so_o clear_a and_o perspicuous_a as_o it_o produce_v a_o holy_a triumph_n and_o glory_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n vers_fw-la 3._o not_o only_o so_o but_o we_o glory_n in_o tribulation_n also_o yea_o this_o full_a perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n of_o the_o spirit_n testimony_n be_v that_o which_o procure_v such_o a_o general_a triumph_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o do_v not_o only_o triumph_v over_o all_o external_a evil_n as_o be_v more_o than_o a_o conqueror_n over_o persecution_n and_o tribulation_n but_o the_o heart_n in_o that_o moment_n also_o triumph_v over_o all_o temptation_n even_o all_o the_o evil_a working_n of_o natural_a distrust_n and_o unbelief_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n 2._o there_o be_v also_o a_o variety_n in_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n both_o unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o permanency_n and_o continuance_n of_o the_o testimony_n to_o one_o believe_v soul_n the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_n of_o union_n by_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v to_o faith_n eye_n and_o by_o sweet_a holy_a ray_n cast_v upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n but_o these_o be_v but_o like_o a_o flash_n of_o lightning_n shut_v up_o again_o in_o a_o moment_n but_o to_o another_o believe_a soul_n the_o spirit_n render_v this_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n and_o unto_o sense_n in_o a_o abide_a way_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o variety_n in_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o believe_a soul_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o frequency_n of_o its_o renew_v the_o same_o testimony_n to_o one_o believe_v soul_n the_o spirit_n will_v testify_v again_o and_o again_o upon_o every_o occasion_n the_o spirit_n will_v step_v in_o very_o opportune_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v at_o a_o pinch_n and_o renew_v its_o record_n to_o another_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n vouchsafe_v also_o the_o same_o testimony_n it_o shall_v be_v rare_o and_o for_o a_o moment_n caution_n 3._o three_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o whenever_o the_o bless_a spirit_n do_v avouch_v and_o attest_v most_o full_o to_o a_o believe_a soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o testimony_n do_v not_o always_o actual_o abide_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n without_o interruption_n and_o intermission_n this_o heavenly_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o wisdom_n vouchsafe_v to_o a_o believe_a soul_n may_v like_o elijah_n fiery_a chariot_n mount_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o three_o heaven_n for_o a_o season_n yet_o it_o must_v come_v down_o again_o though_o paul_n be_v wrap_v up_o into_o the_o three_o heaven_n yet_o he_o must_v not_o abide_v there_o while_o he_o remain_v in_o the_o flesh_n though_o peter_n may_v have_v a_o soul-ravishing_a view_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o a_o season_n in_o the_o mount_n yet_o he_o must_v not_o have_v a_o tabernacle_n there_o there_o be_v four_o or_o five_o reason_n why_o it_o be_v the_o bless_a pleasure_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n that_o the_o testimony_n shall_v not_o actual_o abide_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n i._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o difference_n between_o heaven_n and_o earth_n ii_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v have_v his_o honour_n in_o believe_v soul_n in_o his_o predestinate_v way_n the_o prime_a and_o principle_n way_n wherein_o the_o lord_n have_v determine_v from_o eternity_n to_o have_v honour_n from_o his_o saint_n while_o they_o be_v here_o below_o be_v from_o their_o believe_v his_o majesty_n upon_o his_o bare_a word_n 2._o cor._n 5.7_o iii_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o constant_a lively_a experimental_a sense_n of_o the_o soul_n absolute_a dependence_n upon_o the_o lord_n still_o for_o the_o evidence_n of_o
insinuation_n and_o suggestion_n that_o proceed_v from_o hell_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o more_o peculiar_a disposition_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n to_o comply_v with_o that_o curse_a suggestion_n of_o hell_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n receive_v be_v but_o a_o delusion_n and_o that_o upon_o these_o four_o ground_n i._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a endeavour_n of_o sense_n in_o every_o believe_a soul_n to_o regain_v his_o first_o dominion_n to_o have_v the_o prime_a command_a authority_n in_o the_o believe_a heart_n hence_o you_o shall_v observe_v that_o the_o most_o precious_a saint_n have_v maintain_v a_o mighty_a battle_n to_o the_o power_n of_o their_o soul_n against_o sense_n strive_v to_o prevail_v over_o faith_n and_o yet_o the_o strong_a saint_n have_v be_v incline_v and_o ready_o dispose_v to_o judge_v of_o all_o by_o sense_n that_o be_v to_o judge_v according_a to_o what_o they_o see_v and_o feel_v of_o the_o dispensation_n of_o god_n to_o they_o and_o working_n of_o god_n in_o they_o so_o you_o see_v the_o holy_a man_n gidion_n judg._n 6.12_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o indeed_o be_v jesus_n christ_n himself_n appear_v to_o he_o and_o say_v the_o lord_n be_v with_o thou_o thou_o mighty_a man_n of_o valour_n but_o mark_v now_o sense_n strive_v for_o the_o dominion_n over_o faith_n say_v gidion_n oh_o my_o lord_n if_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o we_o why_o then_o be_v all_o this_o befall_v we_o and_o where_o be_v all_o his_o miracle_n which_o our_o father_n tell_v we_o of_o say_v do_v not_o the_o lord_n bring_v we_o up_o from_o egypt_n but_o now_o the_o lord_n have_v forsake_v we_o and_o deliver_v we_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o midianite_n thus_o sense_n say_v in_o another_o case_n if_o the_o lord_n will_v accept_v i_o to_o be_v one_o in_o christ_n why_o be_v my_o heart_n leave_v thus_o and_o thus_o why_o be_v my_o corruption_n thus_o strong_a so_o again_o you_o shall_v observe_v psal_n 73.2_o the_o godly_a man_n asaph_n confess_v that_o sense_n do_v so_o strive_v for_o the_o mastery_n that_o his_o soul_n by_o that_o have_v well_o night_n lose_v its_o stand_v in_o faith_n my_o foot_n be_v almost_o go_v my_o step_n have_v well_o nigh_o slip_v nay_o sense_n wrought_v so_o far_o that_o you_o shall_v observe_v v._o 13._o the_o holy_a man_n have_v conclude_v that_o he_o have_v cleanse_v his_o heart_n in_o vain_a and_o wash_v his_o hand_n in_o innocency_n there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a disposition_n in_o every_o believe_a soul_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o suggestion_n of_o hell_n that_o his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v but_o a_o delusion_n there_o be_v a_o concurrence_n in_o this_o to_o all_o the_o argument_n of_o sense_n 1._o there_o be_v a_o concurrence_n with_o sense_n in_o the_o cause_n that_o sense_n argue_v against_o the_o soul_n sense_n argument_n tend_v all_o to_o prove_v a_o impossibility_n to_o forlorn_a soul_n shall_v be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o this_o be_v the_o very_a matter_n of_o the_o suggestion_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o unite_v so_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o sutableness_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v glad_a of_o such_o a_o suggestion_n as_o the_o proof_n of_o what_o sense_n maintain_v against_o the_o soul_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o concurrence_n in_o the_o medium_n that_o sense_n use_v to_o disprove_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n the_o ground_n of_o that_o suggestion_n from_o hell_n that_o the_o believe_a soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n be_v setched_a always_o from_o some_o defect_n or_o some_o miscarriage_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n either_o from_o some_o want_n of_o holiness_n or_o some_o unsuitable_a work_n in_o the_o spirit_n to_o what_o the_o soul_n conceive_v be_v the_o temper_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o those_o who_o receive_v such_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n now_o sense_n argument_n be_v the_o same_o it_o be_v always_o the_o voice_n of_o sense_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n my_o heart_n be_v thus_o and_o thus_o vile_a i_o be_o dead_a vain_a and_o formal_a blockish_a carnal_a sensual_a sleighty_a and_o loose_a i_o be_o little_o better_a than_o a_o block_n under_o ordinance_n therefore_o it_o can_v be_v that_o i_o shall_v be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 3._o by_o sense_n comply_v with_o this_o suggestion_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o evidence_n of_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n sense_n do_v immediate_o aspire_v to_o the_o throne_n again_o in_o the_o believe_a heart_n and_o do_v immediate_o endeavour_v the_o dispossess_v of_o faith_n if_o the_o heart_n comply_v with_o that_o suggestion_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o faith_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n then_o see_v the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n be_v primary_o and_o principal_o unto_o faith_n faith_n be_v make_v whole_o subject_a to_o the_o soul_n sense_n so_o that_o sense_n than_o bear_v the_o prime_a and_o principle_n rule_v in_o the_o soul_n ii_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a disposition_n in_o a_o believe_a soul_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o suggestion_n of_o hell_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n in_o regard_n of_o that_o desperate_a enmity_n of_o carnal_a reason_n against_o faith_n in_o every_o believe_a soul_n the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 8.7_o the_o carnal_a mind_n which_o be_v the_o seat_n of_o reason_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n so_o against_o all_o the_o holy_a working_n of_o god_n in_o a_o soul_n and_o therefore_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n it_o be_v enmity_n against_o that_o special_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n which_o be_v the_o believe_a disposition_n there_o be_v a_o irreconciliable_a opposition_n between_o carnal_a reason_n and_o faith_n in_o every_o soul_n carnal_a reason_n can_v comprehend_v that_o gracious_a unspeakable_a mystery_n of_o the_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n through_o believe_v only_o and_o because_o it_o can_v comprehend_v it_o therefore_o it_o be_v opposite_a to_o the_o utmost_a of_o his_o power_n carnal_a reason_n be_v always_o for_o self-advancement_n and_o therefore_o direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o soul_n believe_v which_o be_v the_o low_a debasement_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o thence_o carnal_a reason_n be_v opposite_a to_o the_o first_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o to_o every_o consequent_a act_n of_o faith_n also_o so_o that_o there_o can_v not_o be_v a_o believe_a act_n in_o any_o soul_n do_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n come_v with_o a_o mighty_a power_n to_o throw_v down_o those_o strong_a carnal_a reason_n according_a to_o that_o in_o 2_o cor._n 10.45_o throw_v down_o the_o strong_a hold_v imaginations-original_a it_o be_v as_o beza_n render_v it_o the_o very_a reason_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v throw_v down_o whereby_o the_o flesh_n have_v fortify_v itself_o against_o the_o spirit_n draw_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v so_o opposite_a be_v carnal_a reason_n to_o faith_n that_o it_o invent_v a_o multitude_n of_o false_a reason_n and_o rot_a ground_n to_o persuade_v the_o unregenerate_a soul_n to_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o his_o own_o estate_n that_o do_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n throw_v down_o those_o reason_n it_o be_v impossible_a the_o soul_n shall_v believe_v likewise_o again_o after_o the_o first_o act_n of_o believe_v carnal_a reason_n turn_v the_o mouth_n of_o his_o great_a ordnance_n whereby_o it_o mannage_n the_o battle_n against_o faith_n another_o way_n then_o carnal_a reason_n mannage_n it_o against_o the_o right_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o believe_v and_o persuade_v the_o soul_n it_o have_v not_o believe_v and_o it_o may_v not_o it_o ought_v not_o to_o believe_v there_o be_v no_o ground_n for_o such_o a_o dispicable_a soul_n as_o he_o to_o believe_v now_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o enmity_n of_o carnal_a reason_n in_o the_o heart_n against_o faith_n there_o be_v a_o ready_a disposition_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o suggestion_n that_o his_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n 1._o the_o evidence_n be_v suitable_a to_o carnal_a reason_n carnal_a reason_n leap_v now_o in_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o suggestion_n and_o say_v thus_o you_o shall_v not_o believe_v and_o yet_o you_o will_v presume_v though_o you_o be_v unholy_a and_o altogether_o unsuitable_a to_o the_o promise_n and_o now_o you_o see_v you_o have_v undo_v your_o own_o soul_n and_o cast_v yourselves_o into_o the_o inextricable_a labyrinth_n 2._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o powerful_a inclination_n in_o every_o soul_n to_o comply_v with_o carnal_a reason_n carnal_a reason_n be_v our_o own_o and_o because_o our_o own_o we_o be_v willing_a to_o put_v ourselves_o under_o its_o power_n 3._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o oppiniativeness_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o excellency_n and_o strength_n
of_o the_o arguing_n of_o his_o own_o carnal_a reason_n this_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o asaph_n psal_n 73_o 16._o he_o confess_v the_o conceitedness_n of_o his_o own_o carnal_a reason_n when_o he_o say_v i_o think_v to_o know_v this_o but_o he_o confess_v when_o he_o go_v into_o the_o sactuary_n to_o consult_v with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o let_v faith_n be_v judge_n than_o he_o find_v himself_o as_o ignorant_a as_o a_o very_a beast_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a disposition_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o evidence_n of_o hell_n that_o his_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v such_o corrupt_a affection_n remain_v in_o every_o believe_v soul_n in_o some_o degree_n that_o make_v the_o suggestion_n of_o the_o devil_n that_o his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n to_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n plausible_a and_o pleasant_a to_o the_o believe_a soul_n jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n of_o god_n and_o his_o faithfulness_n in_o reveiw_v such_o a_o dispicable_a forlorn_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v in_o some_o degree_n possess_v every_o believe_a soul_n now_o in_o regard_n that_o suggestion_n from_o hell_n that_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n and_o all_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o flesh_n that_o concur_v with_o that_o suggestion_n also_o do_v nourish_v and_o increase_v the_o soul_n suspicion_n and_o afford_v matter_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o jealousy_n thence_o through_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o soul_n jealousy_n and_o suspicion_n even_o that_o very_a suggestion_n that_o under_o one_o respect_n be_v like_o a_o dreadful_a poison_a arrow_n that_o stick_v in_o the_o heart_n to_o wound_v the_o bowel_n yet_o in_o another_o respect_n it_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n plausible_a and_o pleasant_a iv_o there_o be_v a_o peculiar_a disposition_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o comply_v with_o this_o suggestion_n that_o his_o evidence_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n in_o regard_n the_o remain_a corruption_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n do_v evade_v the_o mighty_a power_n of_o faith_n in_o crucify_a mortify_a and_o suppress_v they_o by_o comply_v with_o this_o suggestion_n faith_n power_n against_o corruption_n consist_v especial_o in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o holy_a boldness_n claim_v power_n from_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n against_o corruption_n in_o his_o holy_a bold_a engage_v his_o bless_a god_n in_o christ_n to_o come_v in_o for_o his_o assistance_n now_o this_o power_n of_o faith_n against_o corruption_n be_v abundant_o weaken_v by_o the_o heart_n comply_v with_o that_o suggestion_n from_o hell_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n 2._o it_o consist_v in_o faith_n holy_a oratory_n in_o argue_v within_o the_o soul_n against_o corruption_n indeed_o there_o be_v faith_n mighty_a power_n in_o bring_v in_o such_o impregnable_a argument_n as_o all_o the_o sophistry_n of_o hell_n itself_o can_v devise_v a_o evasion_n from_o they_o these_o thing_n i_o have_v premise_v concern_v delusion_n only_o in_o reference_n to_o believe_a soul_n first_o that_o believe_v soul_n may_v not_o account_v it_o strange_a to_o meet_v with_o that_o suggestion_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n second_o that_o believe_a soul_n may_v not_o subscribe_v sudden_o to_o that_o suggestion_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n without_o due_a holy_a examination_n of_o the_o ground_n and_o reason_n that_o back_n and_o fortify_v that_o suggestion_n in_o the_o soul_n but_o now_o in_o reference_n to_o unbelieve_a soul_n there_o be_v much_o more_o to_o be_v add_v still_o by_o way_n of_o premise_v concern_v these_o delusion_n pre._n 5._o five_o i_o must_v also_o premise_v that_o the_o most_o profound_a policy_n the_o depth_n of_o subtlety_n and_o suggestion_n of_o all_o the_o spirit_n who_o habitation_n be_v in_o the_o region_n of_o darkness_n be_v employ_v to_o the_o utmost_a to_o delude_v multitude_n of_o soul_n with_o false_a hope_n counterfite_a joy_n self-deceiving_a and_o soul-destroying_a confidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o reconciliation_n with_o the_o father_n thus_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n be_v employ_v to_o delude_v those_o poor_a foolish_a virgin_n mat._n 25.11_o 12._o by_o argue_v from_o their_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n signify_v there_o by_o their_o lamp_n that_o they_o be_v join_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o shall_v be_v everlasting_o save_v by_o he_o whereas_o poor_a foolish_a soul_n they_o see_v at_o last_o to_o their_o everlasting_a horror_n and_o amazement_n that_o they_o be_v mere_o cozen_v by_o the_o devil_n sophistry_n thus_o certain_o the_o wit_n of_o hell_n be_v employ_v to_o deceive_v those_o self-flattering_a jew_n john_n 8.18_o to_o make_v they_o conceive_v their_o natural_a birth_n from_o abraham_n be_v ground_n sufficient_a whereupon_o they_o shall_v conceive_v the_o bless_a god_n of_o heaven_n to_o be_v their_o god_n whereas_o the_o dear_a compassionate_a redeemer_n of_o lose_a soul_n be_v constrain_v to_o tell_v they_o they_o be_v of_o the_o family_n of_o hell_n and_o the_o devil_n be_v their_o father_n thus_o be_v that_o proud_a pharisee_fw-mi luke_n 18.11_o by_o the_o subtle_a sophistry_n of_o the_o old_a serpent_n delude_v also_o he_o be_v even_o triumph_v as_o if_o he_o be_v sure_a of_o heaven_n he_o be_v thank_v god_n before_o hand_n for_o it_o but_o indeed_o as_o it_o be_v the_o master_n piece_n of_o the_o devil_n policy_n to_o persuade_v true_a believe_v soul_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n so_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o result_n of_o all_o those_o curse_a counsel_n of_o hell_n concern_v unbelieving_a soul_n live_v under_o gospel_n preach_v be_v to_o persuade_v they_o that_o they_o be_v certain_o join_v to_o christ_n and_o shall_v be_v everlasting_o save_v by_o he_o and_o indeed_o there_o be_v various_a ground_n of_o this_o different_a practice_n of_o the_o policy_n of_o hell_n against_o believe_v and_o unbelieve_a soul_n the_o persuasion_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v to_o conceive_v that_o his_o evidence_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n be_v most_o suitable_a for_o the_o devil_n purpose_v to_o work_v upon_o a_o believe_a soul_n i._o in_o regard_v every_o believe_a soul_n be_v for_o ever_o out_o of_o conceit_n with_o himself_o such_o a_o view_n have_v every_o such_o soul_n receive_v of_o his_o loathsome_a filthiness_n and_o forlorness_n that_o in_o some_o degree_n he_o do_v for_o ever_o abhor_v himself_o he_o be_v utter_o out_o of_o love_n with_o himself_o and_o all_o that_o he_o be_v and_o have_v now_o thence_o it_o be_v the_o persuasion_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n be_v suitable_a to_o fasten_v and_o take_v impression_n upon_o such_o a_o soul_n ii_o every_o believe_a soul_n have_v experimental_o find_v the_o dreadful_a self-flattery_n that_o his_o spirit_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o his_o heart_n have_v flatter_v he_o into_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o his_o own_o estate_n from_o various_a rot_a ground_n believe_v soul_n have_v experimental_o find_v that_o one_o time_n he_o imagine_v his_o estate_n to_o be_v safe_a and_o sure_a and_o secure_a mere_o upon_o the_o ground_n of_o his_o own_o change_n and_o reformation_n from_o what_o he_o be_v another_o time_n he_o think_v his_o estate_n to_o be_v secure_a mere_o from_o the_o performance_n of_o the_o duty_n the_o lord_n require_v public_a and_o private_a now_o from_o these_o many_o experience_n of_o the_o sandy_a foundation_n that_o his_o heart_n have_v cause_v he_o to_o build_v the_o hope_n of_o his_o security_n and_o safety_n for_o eternity_n upon_o every_o believe_a soul_n be_v apt_a to_o be_v jealous_a and_o ready_a to_o entertain_v any_o scruple_n about_o his_o own_o estate_n he_o be_v very_o fearful_a lest_o he_o shall_v build_v upon_o another_o sandy_a foundation_n iii_o every_o believe_a soul_n have_v be_v sensible_a of_o infinite_a invaluable_a worth_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o matter_n of_o great_a concernment_n the_o spirit_n of_o man_n be_v natural_o suspicious_a of_o disappointment_n so_o that_o from_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o infinite_a value_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n natural_o flow_v suspicion_n and_o jealousy_n of_o be_v deceive_v in_o the_o great_a matter_n of_o union_n and_o thence_o the_o suggestion_n that_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n be_v suitable_a and_o feed_v that_o suspicion_n iv_o every_o believe_a soul_n be_v sensible_a of_o the_o infinite_a danger_n of_o the_o loss_n of_o union_n by_o foster_a false_a hope_n and_o groundless_a conceit_n of_o union_n by_o flatter_v himself_o in_o a_o good_a opinion_n of_o
all_o his_o labour_n will_v be_v in_o vain_a by_o consent_v to_o a_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v when_o the_o soul_n stagger_v and_o waver_v in_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n which_o christ_n receive_v and_o proceed_v in_o that_o timorous_a tremble_a waver_a manner_n to_o a_o examination_n of_o that_o his_o evidence_n than_o the_o soul_n either_o seek_v for_o a_o high_a evidence_n than_o what_o he_o receive_v former_o or_o else_o he_o seek_v for_o infallible_a demonstration_n from_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v that_o that_o evidence_n that_o he_o have_v receive_v be_v real_o from_o god_n now_o in_o case_n the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v receive_v be_v the_o evidence_n from_o that_o precious_a witness_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o soul_n seek_v all_o in_o vain_a to_o seek_v for_o a_o high_a evidence_n or_o else_o in_o case_n the_o soul_n seek_v to_o prove_v certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o that_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o have_v receive_v be_v from_o god_n by_o the_o effect_n wrought_v in_o his_o own_o heart_n the_o soul_n also_o labour_v in_o vain_a in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o necessity_n that_o the_o soul_n must_v be_v dubious_a and_o anxious_a about_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o that_o he_o conceive_v to_o have_v receive_v from_o jesus_n christ_n while_o the_o soul_n be_v dubious_a whether_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n iii_o in_o regard_n satan_n indiscernable_o gain_v these_o advantage_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o solicit_v the_o soul_n to_o this_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n by_o satan_n solicit_v the_o soul_n to_o a_o doubtful_a trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v he_o do_v indeed_o appear_v in_o angelical_a glory_n clothe_v with_o a_o glitter_v garment_n of_o heavenly_a light_n he_o thus_o bespeak_v the_o poor_a believe_a soul_n take_v heed_n o_o soul_n thou_o be_v not_o delude_v in_o this_o great_a matter_n of_o eternity_n man_n heart_n be_v natural_o too_o ready_a to_o presume_v say_v satan_n take_v heed_n lest_o thou_o befool_v thyself_o with_o vain_a hope_n thus_o he_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o messenger_n of_o the_o bless_a god_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n send_v on_o purpose_n to_o press_v one_o of_o the_o bless_a command_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v try_v examine_v and_o prove_v itself_o only_o he_o secret_o mix_v a_o curse_a principle_n of_o darkness_n with_o that_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n he_o incite_v the_o believe_a soul_n to_o a_o dubious_a anxious_a trial_n and_o examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n and_o so_o consequent_o procure_v the_o soul_n to_o reject_v the_o bless_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n that_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o riches_n of_o his_o mercy_n have_v vouchsafe_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n whereas_o the_o spirit_n intend_v a_o precious_a believe_a trial_n for_o the_o soul_n more_o abundant_a establishment_n and_o consolation_n that_o it_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o joy_n and_o glory_n pre._n 2._o second_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v vouchsafe_v a_o clear_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n ought_v not_o to_o diminish_v in_o the_o least_o degree_n his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v even_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n whilst_o he_o endeavour_v to_o try_v and_o examine_v his_o evidence_n of_o union_n receive_v whether_o it_o be_v from_o god_n or_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o diabolical_a inspiration_n sueh_n be_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o try_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o this_o his_o confidence_n that_o in_o such_o a_o degree_n and_o measure_n as_o that_o soul_n waver_v in_o this_o his_o confidence_n in_o the_o same_o degree_n be_v the_o soul_n uncapable_a of_o a_o right_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v so_o that_o in_o case_n the_o confidence_n shall_v whole_o fail_v the_o soul_n be_v whole_o uncapable_a of_o a_o right_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v dispose_v to_o receive_v the_o clear_a evidence_n unto_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o soul_n be_v dispose_v to_o this_o two_o way_n 1._o by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v fix_v upon_o that_o glass_n through_o which_o the_o light_n that_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shine_v the_o glass_n wherein_o the_o lord_n discover_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v he_o be_v his_o word_n wherein_o he_o declare_v it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v every_o rebel_n and_o enemy_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o into_o union_n with_o himself_o through_o he_o now_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v only_o fix_v and_o establish_v upon_o this_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n through_o the_o lively_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n because_o this_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o confidence_n and_o the_o object_n be_v only_o in_o they_o when_o there_o be_v act_v of_o faith_n upon_o the_o object_n 2._o it_o be_v by_o the_o act_n of_o this_o confidence_n that_o a_o clearness_n be_v maintain_v in_o the_o soul_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v suitable_a to_o discern_v that_o light_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v it_o into_o 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to_o discern_v in_o itself_o from_o whence_o it_o discern_v actual_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o then_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n fail_v or_o cease_v its_o act_n the_o very_a original_n of_o the_o soul_n evidence_n unto_o sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v take_v away_o second_o the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v not_o only_o to_o forbear_v the_o diminish_n of_o this_o his_o confidence_n in_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n while_o he_o proceed_v to_o the_o trial_n of_o his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v but_o he_o ought_v also_o to_o forbear_v the_o diminish_n of_o his_o confidence_n that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n already_o in_o case_n the_o lord_n
to_o close_o with_o and_o accept_v of_o the_o precious_a tender_a of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o the_o soul_n now_o when_o the_o spirit_n light_a of_o manifestation_n whereby_o it_o do_v irradiate_a the_o word_n to_o the_o soul_n be_v withdraw_v the_o soul_n must_v needs_o be_v uncapable_a to_o examine_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n for_o it_o be_v only_o through_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n or_o manifestation_n of_o the_o word_n that_o any_o believe_a soul_n do_v at_o first_o clear_o and_o satisfy_o and_o unquestionable_o discern_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o therefore_o when_o this_o light_n of_o manifestation_n from_o the_o spirit_n be_v withdraw_v again_o it_o can_v be_v that_o the_o believe_a soul_n shall_v clear_o discern_v their_o precious_a truth_n and_o so_o long_o as_o the_o soul_n enjoy_v not_o this_o evidence_n unto_o he_o say_v of_o his_o certain_a acceptance_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n 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holiness_n now_o conscience_n be_v furnish_v with_o a_o new_a bill_n of_o indictment_n against_o the_o soul_n it_o can_v now_o lay_v to_o the_o soul_n charge_v guile_n and_o deceitfulness_n of_o heart_n with_o god_n and_o willing_a apostasy_n from_o god_n so_o that_o now_o it_o can_v with_o a_o full_a mouth_n pass_v the_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n against_o the_o soul_n afresh_o and_o be_v furnish_v with_o such_o argument_n as_o nothing_o but_o faith_n can_v answer_v nothing_o but_o a_o renew_a vision_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v declare_v in_o his_o bless_a word_n to_o accept_v of_o every_o poor_a undo_v perish_v soul_n be_v he_o as_o bad_a as_o a_o incarnate_a devil_n in_o case_n the_o soul_n will_v accept_v of_o union_n with_o he_o can_v satisfy_v either_o carnal_a reason_n or_o suspicious_a argmment_n or_o conscience_n accusation_n 3._o the_o soul_n decay_v in_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a to_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n the_o soul_n remain_v under_o a_o inevitable_a a_o unavoidable_a necessity_n to_o submit_v to_o the_o judgement_n that_o sense_n shall_v pass_v upon_o his_o soul_n now_o sense_n can_v pass_v no_o other_o judgemennt_v upon_o a_o soul_n estate_n that_o be_v decay_v in_o holiness_n but_o that_o certain_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o he_o conceive_v he_o have_v receive_v be_v delusion_n sense_n can_v see_v none_o of_o those_o precious_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o soul_n evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o sense_n can_v pass_v no_o other_o judgement_n unless_o it_o be_v captivate_v unto_o the_o power_n of_o faith_n 4._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v apparent_a defect_n in_o such_o a_o soul_n of_o the_o proper_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o the_o true_a manifestation_n to_o a_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v a_o height_n of_o holiness_n now_o when_o holiness_n be_v decay_v satan_n can_v say_v by_o a_o fallacious_a argument_n thy_o evidence_n of_o thy_o union_n that_o thou_o think_v thou_o have_v be_v delusion_n indeed_o do_v not_o see_v by_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o evidence_n those_o that_o have_v evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v their_o heart_n in_o a_o adore_a admire_a frame_n of_o god_n they_o have_v their_o heart_n enlarge_v to_o the_o utmost_a towards_o god_n in_o christ_n but_o thou_o have_v a_o blockish_a senselese_fw-mi careless_a heartless_a mindless_a unprofitable_a spirit_n sure_o thy_o evidence_n therefore_o be_v delusion_n now_o indeed_o here_o be_v a_o fallacy_n in_o satan_n argument_n that_o be_v hard_o to_o be_v discern_v here_o be_v a_o depth_n of_o satan_n here_o be_v one_o of_o those_o cunning_a device_n that_o most_o soul_n be_v ignorant_a of_o he_o fail_v of_o nothing_o in_o his_o argument_n but_o only_o in_o time_n his_o argument_n shall_v have_v run_v thus_o only_a soul_n that_o have_v true_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n whilst_o those_o evidence_n remain_v they_o be_v in_o a_o admire_a adore_a frame_n and_o their_o heart_n elevate_v and_o enlarge_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o holiness_n if_o this_o have_v be_v satan_n major_a proposition_n his_o assumption_n must_v have_v be_v false_a then_o he_o can_v not_o have_v say_v but_o thou_o in_o that_o moment_n and_o instant_n when_o those_o evidennes_n be_v give_v to_o the_o during_o the_o continuance_n of_o those_o evidence_n in_o their_o clear_a light_n that_o thou_o be_v unite_v thy_o heart_n be_v not_o enlarge_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o holiness_n and_o take_v with_o a_o precious_a admiration_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o soul_n be_v under_o a_o actual_a provocation_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o a_o penal_a suspension_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o manifestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n either_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n or_o that_o he_o be_v admit_v the_o soul_n he_o can_v never_o discern_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n satisfy_o and_o infallible_o without_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o same_o light_n both_o manifest_v the_o word_n to_o the_o believe_a disposition_n and_o manifest_v the_o believe_a act_n also_o to_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n now_o therefore_o the_o soul_n must_v needs_o be_v unsuitable_a to_o examine_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n while_o he_o be_v actual_o provoke_v the_o lord_n to_o withdraw_v that_o bless_a spirit_n and_o to_o suspend_v his_o operation_n unto_o the_o soul_n now_o here_o be_v a_o question_n necessary_o cast_v in_o to_o be_v open_v by_o the_o way_n before_o we_o can_v proceed_v any_o far_a que._n but_o will_v the_o soul_n say_v if_o soul_n under_o the_o dominion_n of_o impatiency_n rashness_n irrational_a affection_n prejudicial_a conceit_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o soul_n under_o decay_n of_o holiness_n be_v unsuitable_a for_o a_o right_a trial_n of_o their_o evidence_n then_o what_o suitable_a mean_n remain_v for_o such_o soul_n under_o fear_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n be_v delusion_n ans_fw-fr first_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o only_a immediate_a effectual_a mean_v of_o redemption_n of_o such_o soul_n from_o such_o torture_a fear_n suspicion_n and_o jealousy_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o delusion_n be_v a_o renew_a act_n of_o confidence_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n to_o their_o particular_a soul_n wherein_o the_o lord_n do_v declare_v his_o will_n to_o give_v the_o lord_n jesus_n free_o to_o every_o perish_a sinner_n that_o shall_v accept_v he_o to_o mediate_v a_o reconciliation_n with_o the_o father_n for_o he_o though_o plunge_v into_o the_o most_o bottomless_a depth_n of_o sin_n the_o universal_a unlimited_a offer_n
of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o every_o particular_a perish_v and_o lose_a soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o be_v the_o prime_a foundation_n of_o all_o the_o righteous_a hope_n that_o ever_o dwell_v in_o a_o believe_a soul_n all_o the_o expecttation_n and_o hope_n of_o believe_a soul_n be_v but_o the_o build_n upon_o that_o foundation_n now_o when_o the_o build_n of_o the_o soul_n hope_v shake_v the_o only_a mean_n to_o establish_v the_o building_n be_v to_o add_v strength_n to_o the_o foundation_n this_o you_o shall_v observe_v be_v the_o remedy_n of_o the_o poor_a distress_a church_n lament_n 3.40_o after_o many_o distraction_n in_o her_o spirit_n many_o toss_n and_o tumbling_n this_o way_n and_o that_o way_n when_o she_o have_v feed_v upon_o gall_n and_o wormwood_n for_o a_o long_a time_n at_o last_o she_o be_v constrain_v to_o take_v this_o course_n to_o search_v and_o try_v her_o way_n and_o turn_v again_o to_o the_o lord_n she_o be_v constrain_v now_o to_o make_v a_o new_a convert_v work_n of_o the_o matter_n according_a as_o christ_n tell_v his_o disciple_n except_o you_o be_v convert_v when_o they_o be_v already_o convert_v that_o be_v unless_o you_o renew_v the_o close_a of_o your_o spirit_n with_o i_o whereby_o you_o may_v have_v power_n against_o this_o particular_a sin_n and_o i_o conceive_v this_o also_o may_v be_v intend_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n isa_n 50.10_o in_o that_o sweet_a council_n to_o poor_a distress_a soul_n in_o this_o case_n that_o walk_v in_o darkness_n and_o have_v no_o light_n that_o be_v no_o refreshment_n no_o comfort_a hope_n to_o trust_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o stay_v upon_o his_o god_n here_o be_v first_o a_o renew_a act_n of_o faith_n immediate_o command_v to_o such_o a_o distress_a soul_n let_v he_o trust_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n second_o here_o be_v a_o direct_a act_n of_o faith_n a_o act_n of_o faith_n proper_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o do_v never_o put_v forth_o a_o believe_a act_n former_o here_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n require_v and_o command_v to_o be_v do_v by_o these_o soul_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o thing_n in_o themselves_o without_o respect_n to_o their_o former_a comfort_n whether_o they_o 〈◊〉_d be_v true_a or_o false_a without_o respect_n to_o their_o receive_a grace_n whether_o they_o have_v receive_v grace_n or_o not_o receive_v grace_n it_o be_v worth_a the_o clear_n that_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o only_a immediate_a mean_n to_o deliver_v such_o decline_a soul_n from_o under_o the_o fear_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o delusion_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v in_o this_o renew_a act_n only_o that_o the_o former_a evidence_n and_o manifestation_n give_v to_o such_o soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v shine_v forth_o in_o their_o perspicuity_n clearness_n and_o satisfy_a power_n then_o only_o when_o the_o soul_n do_v thus_o close_o afresh_o with_o that_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n offer_v to_o it_o there_o be_v both_o light_n within_o and_o light_n without_o whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v able_a to_o discern_v the_o former_a manifestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o their_o glory_n and_o power_n afresh_o 2._o in_o regard_n through_o this_o renew_a act_n only_o the_o proper_a effect_n of_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v again_o stir_v up_o and_o draw_v forth_o into_o their_o powerful_a operation_n now_o it_o be_v the_o soul_n apprehension_n of_o the_o want_n of_o those_o precious_a effect_n that_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v natural_o beget_v in_o believe_a soul_n that_o do_v occasion_n the_o poor_a distress_a soul_n to_o suspect_v his_o own_o evidence_n and_o to_o be_v jealous_a they_o be_v but_o delusion_n now_o the_o only_a mean_n to_o deliver_v these_o dark_a and_o doubtful_a soul_n from_o under_o the_o tyrannical_a power_n of_o 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jesus_n tender_v so_o as_o he_o accept_v of_o a_o redemption_n from_o his_o sin_n and_o from_o under_o the_o power_n of_o corruption_n through_o christ_n the_o notion_n under_o which_o the_o lord_n make_v the_o proffer_n of_o christ_n unto_o sinner_n be_v that_o he_o shall_v mediate_v a_o reconciliation_n between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o soul_n shall_v so_o accept_v he_o that_o he_o shall_v beget_v a_o precious_a amity_n between_o the_o feather_n and_o the_o soul_n establish_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o state_n of_o love_n that_o be_v the_o soul_n as_o well_o to_o be_v fill_v with_o love_n towards_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v fill_v with_o love_n towards_o the_o soul_n now_o in_o a_o soul_n acceptance_n of_o jesus_n christ_n thus_o tender_v the_o soul_n accept_v of_o christ_n necessary_o as_o a_o redeemer_n to_o redeem_v he_o from_o slavery_n under_o those_o enemy_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n even_o sin_n and_o satan_n so_o that_o there_o must_v be_v a_o state_n 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impatiency_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o domeneerd_v in_o he_o for_o now_o the_o will_n be_v content_v to_o wait_v on_o god_n it_o be_v content_v the_o will_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v fulfil_v in_o he_o 2._o this_o believe_a act_n have_v a_o particular_a influence_n into_o the_o soul_n rashness_n to_o heal_v that_o distemper_n also_o in_o this_o renew_a act_n there_o be_v a_o renew_a sense_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n absolute_a nothingness_n now_o from_o the_o soul_n actual_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o nothingness_n proceed_v a_o holy_a awe_n a_o holy_a reverential_a fear_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n which_o do_v hold_v in_o bound_n the_o rash_a disorderly_a spirit_n so_o that_o by_o this_o the_o spirit_n be_v more_o careful_a how_o it_o draw_v conclusion_n from_o any_o precious_a word_n of_o god_n 3._o the_o believe_a act_n have_v a_o influence_n upon_o the_o disorderly_a affection_n the_o irrational_a affection_n which_o do_v also_o incapacitate_v believe_v soul_n for_o a_o just_a examination_n of_o their_o evidence_n in_o the_o believe_a the_o soul_n do_v captivate_v all_o the_o imagination_n and_o thought_n of_o sense_n and_o carnal_a reason_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n and_o so_o all_o the_o disorderly_a affection_n jealousy_n doubt_n and_o fear_n be_v even_o captivate_v and_o bring_v under_o 4._o this_o renew_v believe_v act_n have_v a_o influence_n also_o into_o the_o prejudicial_a conceit_n or_o opinion_n against_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n receive_v to_o subdue_v those_o in_o the_o believe_a act_n there_o be_v a_o renew_a sight_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o soul_n former_a evidence_n unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o some_o degree_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n while_o he_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o his_o fear_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v delusion_n have_v lose_v the_o
to_o apprehend_v aright_o any_o truth_n from_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n propound_v to_o he_o even_o when_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v renew_v and_o some_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n communicate_v to_o the_o poor_a soul_n so_o that_o in_o a_o metaphorical_a sense_n the_o blind_a soul_n become_v a_o see_a soul_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n also_o that_o the_o same_o spirit_n that_o communicate_v the_o see_a eye_n to_o the_o understanding_n shall_v also_o communicate_v the_o see_v of_o the_o eye_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o the_o same_o spirit_n that_o communicate_v the_o habit_n shall_v communicate_v also_o the_o act_n the_o same_o spirit_n that_o give_v a_o principle_n of_o divine_a knowledge_n to_o the_o soul_n must_v also_o act_v the_o same_o principle_n of_o spiritual_a knowledge_n to_o make_v the_o soul_n actual_o know_v or_o understand_v any_o spiritual_a holy_a mystery_n aright_o now_o then_o when_o the_o evidence_n to_o the_o 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believer_n conquest_n over_o those_o relic_n of_o enmity_n that_o possess_v the_o mind_n when_o he_o have_v actual_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o it_o be_v only_o then_o when_o the_o enmity_n of_o the_o mind_n against_o god_n be_v bring_v into_o captivity_n to_o the_o law_n of_o faith_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v suitable_a to_o take_v the_o examination_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n the_o mind_n now_o be_v dispose_v to_o accept_v or_o agree_v unto_o those_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n from_o whence_o the_o spirit_n do_v manifest_a unto_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n 3._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v then_o only_o that_o the_o soul_n understand_v and_o believe_v what_o the_o true_a celestial_a star_n be_v from_o whence_o those_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o do_v real_o come_v from_o god_n evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n must_v flow_v and_o arise_v the_o precious_a word_n of_o the_o everliving_a god_n to_o every_o lose_a sinner_n declare_v that_o his_o will_n be_v to_o admit_v every_o of_o those_o soul_n that_o will_v to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o himself_o in_o christ_n be_v that_o precious_a bright_a orient_a star_n from_o whence_o those_o beautiful_a beam_n of_o light_n that_o do_v or_o may_v discover_v unto_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n must_v arise_v now_o it_o be_v then_o only_o when_o the_o beam_n of_o light_a shine_n from_o the_o word_n perspicuous_o and_o clear_o unto_o a_o soul_n declare_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v of_o reconciliation_n with_o they_o through_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o they_o understand_v and_o believe_v this_o to_o be_v the_o true_a heavenly_a star_n from_o whence_o the_o light_n that_o evidence_n unto_o they_o their_o union_n must_v flow_v 4._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v then_o only_o that_o the_o irresistible_a power_n that_o those_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n contain_v in_o they_o that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o any_o soul_n real_o from_o god_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v ready_a to_o take_v impression_n upon_o the_o heart_n the_o irresistible_a power_n that_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n contain_v in_o they_o be_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n they_o be_v nothing_o but_o the_o discovery_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v speak_v it_o that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o receive_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n now_o this_o irresistible_a power_n of_o these_o beam_n of_o light_n only_o take_v impression_n upon_o the_o heart_n according_a to_o the_o lively_a act_n of_o holiness_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o lively_a act_n of_o holiness_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v only_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o light_a the_o soul_n enjoy_v discover_v unto_o it_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o when_o those_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v most_o clear_o in_o the_o most_o transcendent_a beauty_n then_o be_v the_o heart_n fill_v with_o the_o most_o lively_a holy_a act_n then_o do_v love_n and_o fear_v and_o joy_n and_o delight_n work_v their_o power_n and_o strength_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v only_o that_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n speak_v or_o declare_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o soul_n take_v the_o deep_a impression_n upon_o the_o soul_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o believe_a disposition_n in_o the_o will_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v only_o then_o in_o exercise_n in_o its_o power_n and_o strength_n the_o prime_a evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n have_v be_v discover_v to_o you_o to_o be_v only_o a_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n and_o in_o like_a manner_n the_o prime_a demonstration_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o evidence_n must_v be_v a_o demonstration_n give_v to_o faith_n only_o reason_n must_v not_o aspire_v so_o high_a to_o be_v the_o judge_n of_o faith_n action_n still_o it_o must_v be_v another_o act_n of_o faith_n that_o must_v pass_v a_o security_n upon_o the_o former_a act_n of_o faith_n so_o that_o thence_o when_o the_o believe_a disposition_n infuse_v into_o the_o will_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v strong_a in_o exercise_n then_o only_o be_v the_o soul_n suitable_a to_o take_v a_o righteous_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n 2._o it_o be_v only_o then_o when_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v clear_a and_o perspicuous_a that_o it_o be_v suitable_a to_o take_v examination_n of_o his_o evidence_n right_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o evidence_n themselves_o which_o then_o only_o appear_v in_o their_o native_a self-discovering_a glory_n it_o be_v the_o inseparable_a property_n of_o those_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n that_o shine_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o discover_v themselves_o real_o to_o be_v from_o god_n even_o by_o their_o own_o native_a lustre_n and_o glory_n those_o beam_n of_o light_n come_v forth_o with_o the_o name_n of_o god_n write_v upon_o their_o forehead_n so_o that_o the_o believe_a soul_n no_o soon_o behold_v they_o but_o he_o read_v the_o name_n of_o god_n write_v upon_o they_o now_o this_o their_o native_a self-discovering_a glory_n never_o appear_v to_o the_o soul_n but_o when_o these_o beam_n of_o light_n actual_o remain_v in_o the_o soul_n in_o their_o perspicuity_n and_o clearness_n and_o therefore_o when_o the_o spirit_n suspend_v its_o influence_n than_o the_o soul_n can_v behold_v those_o beam_n of_o light_n what_o they_o be_v quest_n there_o be_v another_o question_n that_o here_o interpose_v itself_o which_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v answer_v believe_v soul_n will_v now_o reply_v in_o this_o manner_n if_o a_o impartial_a examination_n of_o any_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n can_v be_v only_o take_v while_o the_o splendour_n and_o brightness_n of_o his_o evidence_n remain_v in_o the_o soul_n then_o what_o use_n shall_v soul_n make_v of_o the_o evidence_n they_o conceive_v they_o have_v receive_v of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n when_o the_o lustre_n and_o orient_a brightness_n of_o their_o evidence_n be_v eclipse_v and_o their_o command_a power_n enervate_v or_o wound_v that_o their_o evidence_n cease_v to_o witness_v unto_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o order_n to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o soul_n in_o this_o scruple_n we_o shall_v lay_v down_o divers_a proposition_n prop._n 1._o first_o whenever_o the_o celestial_a glory_n of_o those_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o lord_n vouchsafe_v to_o cast_v into_o any_o believe_a soul_n to_o evidence_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v dark_a and_o those_o invincible_a and_o impregnable_a demonstration_n that_o the_o bless_a spirit_n give_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n to_o prove_v and_o demonstrate_v its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v weaken_v yet_o it_o be_v
to_o heb._n 6.17_o he_o confirm_v it_o by_o a_o oath_n that_o by_o 2._o immutable_a thing_n two_o thing_n that_o be_v subject_a to_o no_o alteration_n or_o diminution_n that_o be_v to_o say_v by_o the_o word_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o by_o his_o oath_n also_o they_o may_v have_v strong_a consolation_n that_o do_v flee_v from_o refuge_n to_o lay_v hold_n upon_o the_o hope_n set_v before_o they_o that_o be_v that_o do_v accept_v of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v to_o they_o so_o that_o the_o hang_v thus_o the_o eternal_a estate_n of_o the_o soul_n upon_o the_o former_a evidence_n be_v too_o high_a a_o use_n to_o put_v the_o former_a evidence_n too_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n itself_o that_o the_o former_a evidence_a beam_n of_o light_a manifest_a that_o be_v only_o destinate_a to_o that_o precious_a use_n to_o build_v the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n admission_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n upon_o even_o that_o truth_n that_o the_o lord_n do_v declare_v that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o admit_v even_o that_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o he_o will_v aceept_v it_o and_o whenever_o scruple_n and_o objection_n and_o doubt_n possess_v the_o soul_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o any_o former_a evidence_n the_o first-born_a of_o the_o soul_n endeavour_v shall_v be_v take_v up_o in_o in_o clear_v that_o truth_n that_o the_o soul_n do_v conceive_v some_o beam_n of_o light_n do_v evidence_n to_o he_o prop._n 4._o there_o be_v a_o strait_a command_n from_o the_o high_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n give_v unto_o every_o believe_a soul_n to_o make_v a_o holy_a use_n advantage_n and_o improvement_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n vouchsafe_v to_o he_o that_o one_o scripture_n give_v sufficient_a testimony_n heb._n 10.32_o call_v to_o remembrance_n the_o former_a day_n in_o which_o after_o you_o be_v illuminate_v you_o endure_v a_o great_a fight_n of_o affliction_n this_o the_o apostle_n command_v they_o in_o order_n to_o the_o strengthen_n of_o their_o confidence_n ver_fw-la 35._o thus_o asaph_n do_v psal_n 77.5_o 6._o when_o he_o be_v under_o darkness_n when_o the_o power_n of_o unbelief_n begin_v to_o rage_n in_o his_o soul_n and_o to_o tyrannize_v over_o he_o than_o he_o begin_v to_o make_v improvement_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v and_o favour_n to_o he_o he_o remember_v god_n and_o be_v trouble_v now_o he_o recall_v himself_o and_o begin_v to_o make_v diligent_a search_n into_o the_o former_a testimony_n of_o the_o lord_n kindness_n to_o he_o i_o consider_v the_o day_n of_o old_a the_o year_n of_o ancient_a time_n i_o call_v to_o remembrance_n my_o song_n in_o the_o night_n i_o common_a with_o my_o own_o heart_n and_o my_o spirit_n make_v diligent_a search_n i_o call_v to_o remembrance_n my_o song_n in_o the_o night_n that_o be_v the_o former_a comfortable_a communion_n i_o enjoy_v in_o god_n how_o god_n delight_v himself_o in_o communion_n with_o my_o soul_n and_o my_o soul_n delight_v itself_o in_o communion_n with_o god_n again_o how_o god_n speak_v peace_n to_o i_o and_o i_o answerable_o rejoice_v in_o god_n again_o and_o i_o commune_v with_o my_o own_o heart_n i_o look_v over_o the_o record_n of_o my_o heart_n and_o make_v diligent_a search_n to_o see_v what_o experience_n of_o truth_n and_o goodness_n and_o love_a kindness_n of_o god_n to_o my_o soul_n be_v treasure_v up_o there_o yea_o then_o to_o help_v himself_o further_o ver_fw-la 10.11_o he_o endeavour_v to_o make_v some_o improvement_n of_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v and_o kindness_n truth_n and_o faithfulness_n even_o to_o other_o i_o will_v remember_v the_o work_n of_o the_o lord_n sure_o i_o will_v remember_v thy_o wonder_n of_o old_a there_o be_v a_o command_n from_o heaven_n upon_o believe_a soul_n to_o make_v use_n of_o their_o former_a evidence_n and_o there_o be_v some_o kind_n of_o inherent_a power_n in_o every_o believe_a soul_n to_o act_v something_o in_o order_n to_o this_o holy_a use_n or_o improvement_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n now_o the_o holy_a use_n of_o those_o former_a evidence_n that_o believe_v soul_n be_v engage_v from_o heaven_n to_o make_v they_o be_v various_a we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o sum_n up_o 5._o or_o 6._o 1._o every_o such_o soul_n ought_v to_o gather_v from_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n some_o strength_n to_o his_o present_a confidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v admit_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n i_o beseech_v you_o mistake_v not_o i_o speak_v not_o of_o those_o probable_a fluctuate_a hope_n that_o some_o soul_n have_v enjoy_v of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n from_o some_o apprehension_n of_o some_o present_a act_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o their_o heart_n to_o clear_v to_o they_o in_o some_o degree_n their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o foster_v up_o some_o hope_n of_o it_o those_o i_o say_v though_o they_o may_v be_v and_o be_v frequent_o such_o as_o real_o descend_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yet_o also_o from_o such_o conceit_a and_o suppose_a act_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n proceed_v most_o of_o those_o soul-deluding_a hope_n that_o poor_a blind_a soul_n be_v delude_v with_o by_o the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o because_o the_o difference_n between_o these_o two_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o so_o great_a difficulty_n to_o discern_v i_o dare_v not_o persuade_v any_o soul_n who_o conceive_v that_o he_o have_v have_v evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n who_o evidence_n have_v be_v only_o some_o flash_n of_o light_n from_o some_o conceive_a act_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o christ_n to_o believe_v firm_o impregnable_o and_o unmovable_o that_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o those_o his_o evidence_n do_v descend_v from_o god_n when_o he_o do_v not_o discern_v they_o those_o fluctuate_a evidence_n unto_o sense_n questionless_a if_o soul_n adhere_v unto_o they_o they_o must_v put_v they_o upon_o the_o trial_n by_o sense_n again_o therefore_o now_o observe_v i_o speak_v of_o the_o precious_a clear_a infallible_a evidence_n give_v unto_o a_o believe_a soul_n from_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n to_o clear_v unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n unquestionable_o that_o the_o lord_n good_a will_n be_v to_o admit_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o case_n his_o soul_n will_v accept_v it_o through_o which_o evidence_n unto_o faith_n also_o the_o evidence_n unto_o sense_n have_v attain_v a_o clear_a beam_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n discern_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o close_a of_o the_o believer_n heart_n with_o the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n yet_o mark_v also_o that_o which_o i_o speak_v have_v its_o relation_n sole_o to_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n give_v unto_o the_o believer_n faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n now_o i_o say_v though_o such_o a_o soul_n be_v unsuitable_a to_o take_v a_o just_a examination_n of_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n former_o give_v to_o his_o faith_n when_o their_o glory_n be_v obscure_v and_o darken_v yet_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o evidence_a beam_n of_o light_n though_o it_o can_v so_o clear_o and_o sensible_o discern_v it_o the_o matter_n that_o be_v evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n be_v no_o more_o than_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n upon_o the_o soul_n from_o heaven_n continual_o to_o believe_v and_o therefore_o the_o matter_n that_o be_v evidence_v be_v true_a and_o the_o soul_n engage_v from_o god_n to_o believe_v it_o the_o soul_n also_o stand_v engage_v to_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o his_o former_a evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n receive_v concern_v the_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o and_o from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o such_o a_o former_a mamanifestation_n give_v unto_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o bless_a spirit_n concern_v that_o bless_a good_a will_n of_o god_n towards_o he_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o gather_v heart_n and_o strength_n and_o courage_n to_o renew_v the_o confidence_n of_o his_o poor_a waver_a rremble_a unstable_a heart_n 2._o the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n give_v unto_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o foster_v and_o nourish_v a_o lively_a hope_n in_o his_o soul_n that_o the_o same_o bless_a light_n of_o manifestation_n to_o manifest_a unto_o his_o faith_n clear_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v return_v that_o experience_n that_o such_o a_o soul_n have_v have_v that_o there_o be_v a_o time_n of_o light_n and_o a_o time_n of_o darkness_n that_o the_o wisdom_n of_o heaven_n see_v
the_o spirit_n itself_o teach_v you_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o these_o thing_n mention_v teach_v you_o that_o you_o shall_v have_v eternal_a life_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o mark_v and_o be_v truth_n and_o be_v no_o lie_n that_o be_v to_o say_v it_o teach_v you_o so_o that_o you_o know_v it_o be_v truth_n and_o you_o know_v you_o be_v not_o deceive_v while_n that_o so_o teach_v or_o in_o its_o teach_n and_o therefore_o he_o say_v in_o the_o former_a word_n that_o they_o need_v not_o that_o any_o man_n shall_v teach_v they_o not_o that_o there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o the_o precious_a ordinance_n of_o jesus_n christ_n still_o for_o their_o soul_n whereby_o the_o truth_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v be_v bring_v to_o their_o remembrance_n and_o the_o precious_a act_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n in_o all_o these_o draw_v forth_o for_o that_o be_v necessary_a for_o every_o believe_a soul_n but_o thus_o you_o need_v not_o that_o any_o man_n teach_v you_o that_o be_v you_o need_v no_o other_o confirmation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o these_o thing_n than_o what_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n give_v you_o you_o need_v not_o that_o any_o man_n shall_v come_v to_o give_v a_o clear_a discovery_n of_o the_o certainty_n and_o truth_n of_o those_o and_o thence_o also_o in_o 1_o cor._n 2.12_o the_o apostle_n affirm_v that_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o do_v teach_v they_o to_o know_v the_o thing_n give_v to_o they_o of_o god_n v._o 10._o that_o god_n have_v reveal_v his_o truth_n to_o they_o by_o the_o spirit_n now_o this_o must_v be_v further_o confirm_v by_o divers_a reason_n that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o do_v proceed_v from_o christ_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n concern_v its_o union_n now_o that_o witness_n or_o testimony_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n concern_v its_o union_n if_o it_o do_v not_o evidence_n even_o by_o its_o own_o light_n that_o it_o do_v proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n it_o be_v no_o witness_n of_o god_n at_o all_o unto_o the_o soul_n concern_v its_o union_n it_o be_v of_o great_a concernment_n to_o the_o soul_n in_o this_o case_n to_o understand_v who_o it_o be_v that_o speak_v than_o to_o understand_v what_o it_o be_v that_o be_v speak_v unless_o the_o soul_n understand_v clear_o that_o the_o light_n that_o now_o come_v into_o his_o soul_n do_v proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n he_o understand_v not_o that_o it_o be_v god_n witness_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v testify_v as_o the_o consideration_n of_o he_o who_o it_o be_v that_o testify_v that_o satisfy_v the_o soul_n or_o make_v it_o to_o be_v the_o witness_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n 2._o in_o regard_v the_o evidence_n be_v the_o testimony_n from_o god_n on_o purpose_n to_o give_v the_o soul_n satisfaction_n concern_v his_o union_n to_o revive_v refresh_v and_o comfort_v the_o soul_n by_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o christ_n in_o his_o promise_v to_o the_o disciple_n to_o send_v his_o bless_a spirit_n to_o dwell_v in_o their_o heart_n while_o he_o be_v absent_a from_o they_o john_n 14.16_o he_o name_v the_o spirit_n the_o comforter_n reveal_v what_o the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v by_o his_o name_n now_o shall_v not_o the_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n that_o do_v evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n evidence_n itself_o also_o to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o testimony_n of_o god_n that_o be_v from_o that_o light_n to_o the_o soul_n can_v give_v no_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o doubtful_a scrupulous_a soul_n therefore_o doubtless_o the_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n do_v always_o carry_v sufficient_a evidence_n for_o itself_o to_o evidence_n from_o itself_o whence_o it_o be_v see_v god_n intend_v those_o beam_n of_o light_a to_o give_v satisfaction_n to_o the_o soul_n 3._o in_o regard_v that_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o high_a witness_n or_o testimony_n unto_o a_o soul_n concern_v his_o union_n now_o see_v that_o those_o beam_n of_o light_n be_v the_o high_a witness_n there_o be_v a_o necessicity_n that_o those_o beam_n of_o light_n shall_v evidence_n themselves_o what_o they_o be_v by_o a_o inseparable_a property_n of_o their_o own_o otherwise_o their_o witness_n must_v be_v subject_a to_o be_v try_v by_o the_o testimony_n of_o something_o else_o so_o that_o the_o high_a witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n must_v come_v to_o be_v subject_a to_o this_o holy_a quality_n and_o that_o precious_a disposition_n 4._o shall_v not_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n faith_n and_o sense_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n evidence_n itself_o to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n than_o the_o bless_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v be_v altogether_o vain_a and_o useless_a those_o sweet_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n be_v the_o spirit_n voice_n and_o shall_v it_o speak_v in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n that_o be_v shall_v not_o its_o voice_n be_v distinguish_v from_o all_o other_o voice_n the_o spirit_n shall_v but_o beat_v the_o air_n that_o be_v all_o the_o light_n that_o it_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n shall_v be_v frustrate_v void_a and_o of_o none_o effect_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n necssary_o fulfil_v the_o office_n to_o which_o jesus_n christ_n have_v appoint_v it_o the_o lord_n have_v destinate_a that_o spirit_n of_o he_o to_o seal_v up_o believer_n to_o seal_v up_o their_o inheritance_n eph._n 13._o chap._n 4.30_o now_o a_o seal_n be_v destinate_a on_o purpose_n to_o give_v a_o peculiar_a confirmation_n of_o the_o thing_n sealed_n yea_o likewise_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v destinate_a to_o be_v the_o earnest_a in_o the_o believer_n soul_n who_o it_o be_v send_v to_o seal_n to_o be_v the_o earnest_a of_o his_o inheritance_n according_a to_o that_o in_o eph._n 1.13_o say_v the_o original_a it_o be_v translate_v which_o but_o it_o be_v rather_o who_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o our_o inheritance_n or_o who_o be_v the_o pledge_n the_o word_n signify_v some_o part_n of_o a_o price_n pay_v beforehand_o to_o assure_v the_o payment_n of_o a_o full_a price_n for_o some_o commodity_n buy_v so_o that_o the_o meaning_n be_v who_o be_v give_v you_o as_o a_o part_n beforehand_o of_o that_o full_a inheritance_n that_o you_o may_v expect_v and_o may_v be_v the_o better_o assure_v that_o you_o shall_v enjoy_v the_o full_a inheritance_n now_o do_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n make_v those_o beam_n of_o light_n send_v down_o into_o any_o soul_n to_o discover_v to_o they_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o discover_v themselves_o to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n the_o soul_n shall_v remain_v dubious_a after_o the_o clear_a testimony_n of_o the_o spirit_n whether_o he_o have_v receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n or_o no_o and_o so_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o seal_v office_n shall_v be_v no_o earnest_n see_v the_o spirit_n must_v be_v a_o earnest_a as_o it_o discover_v itself_o to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n 6._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o only_a discoverer_n of_o all_o divine_a thing_n that_o make_v all_o thing_n manifest_v it_o be_v light_a that_o make_v all_o thing_n manifest_a now_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o only_a spirit_n of_o light_n and_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n so_o that_o there_o can_v nothing_o be_v make_v manifest_a to_o the_o soul_n but_o what_o some_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n must_v manifest_v and_o then_o observe_v it_o whatever_o reason_n any_o soul_n shall_v study_v to_o prove_v the_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o be_v send_v down_o into_o his_o soul_n to_o discover_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v from_o the_o spirit_n even_o that_o reason_n must_v be_v discover_v in_o the_o truth_n and_o reality_n of_o it_o by_o some_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n and_o then_o unless_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n do_v carry_v sufficient_a evidence_n in_o it_o to_o discover_v itself_o to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n the_o soul_n shall_v be_v deceive_v in_o the_o reality_n of_o that_o very_a reason_n that_o he_o study_v up_o to_o prove_v that_o the_o former_a beam_n of_o light_n that_o be_v send_v down_o into_o his_o soul_n come_v down_o from_o the_o spirit_n to_o speak_v more_o plain_o thus_o see_v the_o
spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v only_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n whatever_o holy_a disposition_n whatever_o precious_a heavenly_a quality_n any_o believe_a soul_n shall_v discern_v in_o itself_o it_o must_v be_v discern_v by_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n second_o the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v be_v that_o the_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o most_o potent_a invincible_a demonstration_n of_o its_o own_o proceed_n from_o god_n which_o beget_v the_o most_o certain_a and_o infallible_a knowledge_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o precious_a light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n do_v so_o clear_o discover_v itself_o to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o reason_n that_o can_v make_v any_o addition_n or_o increase_n of_o that_o precious_a clearness_n it_o shine_v so_o bright_o with_o the_o very_a image_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n upon_o it_o as_o nothing_o can_v make_v it_o more_o manifest_a to_o be_v from_o the_o spirit_n than_o its_o own_o light_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o divers_a particular_n i._o in_o regard_v that_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n discover_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v infallible_o true_a not_o only_o what_o be_v infallible_o true_a in_o itself_o but_o it_o discover_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v infallible_o true_a to_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n to_o who_o it_o do_v discover_v it_o now_o when_o the_o principle_n of_o a_o demonstration_n be_v infallible_o true_a then_o have_v it_o the_o first_o property_n of_o the_o high_a and_o most_o potent_a demonstration_n ii_o in_o regard_v that_o light_n which_o discover_v the_o first_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v also_o again_o evidence_n itself_o to_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n also_o now_o that_o be_v the_o high_a demonstrative_a reason_n to_o prove_v that_o any_o thing_n proceed_v from_o god_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o it_o be_v discover_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n now_o that_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n first_o light_n do_v plain_o demonstrate_v that_o to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o come_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o other_o medium_fw-la no_o other_o reason_n that_o can_v be_v imagine_v high_a to_o prove_v that_o the_o first_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n that_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v from_o god_n iii_o in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o most_o evident_a perspicuous_a discovery_n of_o those_o beam_n of_o light_a to_o be_v from_o god_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v give_v every_o reason_n from_o whence_o any_o conclusion_n be_v collect_v must_v be_v clear_a and_o more_o evident_a than_o the_o conclusion_n itself_o now_o it_o be_v only_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v more_o evident_a and_o clear_a than_o the_o conclusion_n itself_o draw_v that_o the_o evidence_n be_v real_o from_o god_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o a_o high_a proof_n to_o be_v make_v of_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n of_o the_o certainty_n of_o their_o be_v from_o god_n than_o this_o very_a light_n that_o these_o beam_n of_o light_n contain_v in_o themselves_o than_o there_o must_v be_v some_o light_n clear_a than_o the_o very_a first_o light_n that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n who_o office_n it_o be_v to_o discover_v all_o thing_n to_o the_o soul_n iv_o in_o regard_v it_o be_v that_o light_n only_o that_o can_v true_o enforce_v or_o cause_v the_o conclusion_n to_o be_v draw_v that_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o do_v discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v from_o god_n now_o that_o be_v the_o high_a kind_n of_o demonstrative_a reason_n to_o show_v the_o truth_n or_o reality_n of_o any_o thing_n when_o the_o principle_n that_o be_v the_o reason_n from_o whence_o the_o conclusion_n be_v collect_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o conclusion_n now_o thus_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v those_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o my_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v real_o from_o god_n why_o because_o they_o come_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n such_o premise_n as_o these_o to_o say_v what_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n reveal_v and_o discover_v that_o must_v of_o necessity_n proceed_v from_o god_n do_v even_o force_v the_o conclusion_n to_o be_v draw_v whereas_o nothing_o else_o have_v so_o much_o power_n in_o it_o to_o cause_v the_o conclusion_n to_o be_v draw_v as_o that_o light_a that_o proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n now_o from_o these_o thing_n open_v you_o may_v hence_o take_v notice_n that_o every_o soul_n to_o whole_a faith_n and_o sense_n the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n have_v true_o reveal_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n have_v full_a satisfaction_n clear_a undoubted_a satisfaction_n concern_v his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o all_o its_o most_o serious_a deliberate_a meditation_n and_o contemplation_n so_o that_o so_o long_o as_o those_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n do_v remain_v actual_o shine_v into_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v no_o kind_n of_o doubt_n scruple_n or_o darkness_n in_o the_o soul_n about_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o any_o soul_n that_o have_v receive_v this_o truâ—…_n discovery_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n both_o unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n need_v not_o inquire_v for_o any_o more_o proof_n than_o his_o own_o soul_n possess_v at_o that_o instant_n that_o god_n and_o his_o soul_n be_v one_o through_o christ_n §_o second_o the_o second_o instrumental_a cause_n that_o shine_v into_o any_o heart_n real_o from_o god_n to_o discover_v to_o that_o heart_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o lord_n precious_a word_n that_o heavenly_a light_n that_o shine_v into_o any_o dark_a and_o doubtful_a heart_n to_o reveal_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o it_o clear_o be_v only_o a_o precious_a spark_n that_o sparkle_v forth_o from_o the_o precious_a burn_a lamp_n of_o the_o lord_n write_a word_n and_o it_o be_v the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o do_v as_o it_o be_v incense_n and_o inflame_v that_o burn_a lamp_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a word_n and_o cause_v it_o to_o send_v forth_o those_o bless_a spark_n into_o dark_a heart_n and_o it_o be_v that_o same_o bless_a spirit_n also_o that_o enlighten_v those_o dark_a heart_n to_o see_v discern_v and_o behold_v those_o spark_n that_o that_o burn_a lamp_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n send_v forth_o so_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o write_a word_n be_v but_o concause_n that_o joint_o and_o sweet_o join_v together_o to_o enlighten_v the_o doubtful_a soul_n and_o clear_o reveal_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n have_v for_o his_o assurance_n the_o hand_n of_o the_o ever_o bless_a god_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n that_o it_o be_v his_o own_o hand_n he_o have_v that_o secret_a light_n that_o discover_v itself_o to_o be_v of_o god_n which_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o to_o his_o sense_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n and_o have_v the_o write_a word_n which_o be_v a_o letter_n write_v from_o the_o almighty_a to_o loveless_a soul_n that_o bear_v witness_v also_o to_o the_o same_o thing_n so_o that_o then_o the_o second_o reason_n next_o to_o the_o prime_a reason_n that_o the_o light_n that_o the_o soul_n receive_v proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v this_o that_o the_o soul_n behold_v it_o clear_o shine_v forth_o from_o the_o lord_n write_a word_n but_o to_o clear_v this_o there_o must_v be_v two_o thing_n open_v first_o that_o a_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v the_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n from_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n and_o aught_o to_o receive_v that_o light_n as_o certain_a and_o infallible_a because_o it_o shine_v from_o the_o write_a word_n second_o that_o the_o lord_n precious_a write_a word_n do_v discover_v to_o particular_a believe_a soul_n their_o particular_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n both_o unto_o their_o faith_n and_o unto_o their_o sense_n first_o it_o must_v be_v clear_v that_o a_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v the_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o his_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n from_o
trust_v to_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n for_o the_o fulfil_n that_o his_o word_n now_o whereas_o it_o be_v object_v that_o no_o particular_a word_n speak_v to_o a_o particular_a soul_n and_o say_v thou_o thomas_n and_o thou_o john_n or_o thou_o elisabeth_n or_o thou_o marry_o shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n if_o thou_o will_v accept_v he_o 1._o i_o answer_v that_o either_o every_o particular_a be_v perfect_o comprehend_v in_o the_o universal_a offer_n and_o universal_a command_n of_o believe_v as_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v name_v every_o person_n to_o who_o he_o speak_v or_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o faith_n of_o assurance_n concern_v any_o gospel-truth_n whatever_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o assurance_n that_o our_o body_n shall_v rise_v again_o from_o the_o dust_n and_o appear_v before_o the_o judgement-seat_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o john_n or_o thou_o mary_n shall_v arise_v out_o of_o the_o dust_n again_o and_o come_v to_o judgement_n yet_o i_o suppose_v every_o one_o that_o have_v the_o least_o beam_n of_o spiritual_a light_n shine_v down_o into_o his_o soul_n will_v acknwledge_v that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n do_v reveal_v particular_o that_o this_o soul_n and_o that_o soul_n even_o his_o own_o soul_n shall_v arise_v from_o the_o dust_n and_o come_v to_o judgeman_n now_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o there_o be_v as_o clear_v a_o discovery_n in_o the_o write_a word_n to_o any_o particular_a soul_n faith_n of_o his_o certain_a resurrection_n from_o the_o dead_a and_o come_n to_o judgement_n 2._o either_o all_o those_o particular_n be_v to_o be_v full_o comprehend_v in_o that_o universal_a offer_n and_o universal_a unlimited_a command_n of_o believe_v or_o else_o there_o be_v no_o obedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n command_v to_o any_o particular_a soul_n whatever_o nor_o no_o disobedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n reprove_v it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o john_n shall_v worship_v the_o lord_n in_o prayer_n it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n or_o thou_o mary_n shall_v receive_v i_o as_o thy_o only_a god_n and_o worship_v i_o only_o likewise_o no_o disobedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v reprove_v it_o be_v not_o where_o say_v thou_o thomas_n shall_v not_o steal_v thou_o john_n shall_v not_o lie_v thou_o mary_n shall_v not_o commit_v adultery_n yet_o i_o conceive_v thou_o who_o believe_a disposition_n be_v most_o out_o of_o exercise_n at_o present_a dare_v not_o say_v god_n have_v not_o say_v to_o thy_o soul_n do_v not_o steal_v do_v not_o lie_v that_o god_n have_v not_o command_v thou_o to_o worship_v he_o in_o his_o ordinance_n appoint_v so_o that_o it_o be_v clear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v reveal_v to_o particular_a soul_n undoubted_o their_o certain_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o case_n they_o accept_v he_o second_o the_o precious_a write_a word_n of_o god_n reveal_v unto_o particular_a soul_n sense_n their_o particular_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v to_o say_v whenever_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n send_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n shall_v irradiate_a the_o precious_a write_a word_n of_o god_n so_o as_o to_o make_v its_o own_o heavenly_a light_n shine_v into_o a_o dark_a heart_n and_o also_o irradiate_a at_o the_o same_o time_n or_o cast_v beam_n of_o light_n upon_o the_o precious_a believe_a act_n that_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v beget_v in_o that_o soul_n than_o that_o light_n that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n hold_v forth_o particular_o declare_v to_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n its_o certain_a actual_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n now_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o the_o sense_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o these_o two_o way_n 1._o in_o its_o general_a description_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v from_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o write_a word_n describe_v the_o nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v in_o general_a and_o declare_v that_o believe_a act_n to_o be_v require_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n from_o every_o soul_n that_o write_v word_n of_o god_n do_v particular_o reveal_v unto_o such_o a_o particular_a soul_n sense_n his_o actual_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o thus_o the_o write_a word_n of_o the_o lord_n describe_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o believe_a act_n to_o be_v a_o come_n to_o jesus_n christ_n mat._n 11.28_o to_o be_v receive_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n that_o he_o give_v concern_v his_o son_n sell_v to_o its_o seal_n that_o god_n be_v true_a john_n 3.33_o a_o receive_v the_o record_n that_o god_n have_v give_v of_o his_o son_n 1_o john_n 5.7_o 8_o 9_o to_o be_v a_o receive_n of_o christ_n himself_o john_n 1.12_o to_o be_v a_o will_n in_o the_o soul_n concur_v with_o what_o the_o lord_n tender_v rev._n 22.17_o now_o i_o say_v in_o the_o spirit_n describe_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o that_o believe_a act_n the_o lord_n require_v it_o do_v speak_v particular_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n when_o the_o spirit_n be_v so_o evidence_v to_o he_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o declare_v the_o soul_n certain_a and_o infallible_a union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n as_o thus_o the_o spirit_n have_v first_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v have_v sweet_o encourage_v the_o soul_n yea_o powerful_o irresistible_o effectual_o command_v the_o soul_n to_o set_v to_o his_o seal_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v true_a and_o to_o say_v lord_n be_v it_o unto_o thy_o servant_n as_o thou_o have_v speak_v then_o the_o same_o spirit_n irradiate_v that_o write_a word_n that_o describe_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o the_o believe_a act_n let_v the_o soul_n discern_v that_o the_o believe_a act_n be_v a_o sweet_a consent_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o he_o to_o reconcile_v the_o father_n and_o he_o and_o then_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_v also_o the_o precious_a consent_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n that_o holy_a trust_n and_o confidence_n that_o be_v then_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o then_o the_o write_a word_n say_v particular_o that_o thou_o do_v consent_v to_o accept_v of_o what_o the_o lord_n thus_o tender_v in_o christ_n to_o thou_o thou_o be_v certain_o and_o everlasting_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thou_o be_v he_o who_o do_v receive_v what_o the_o lord_n have_v propound_v in_o christ_n so_o thou_o and_o therefore_o thou_o be_v certain_o lodge_v in_o the_o everlasting_a arm_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 2._o the_o second_o way_n that_o the_o write_a word_n dclare_v unto_o the_o particular_a soul_n sense_n his_o particular_a union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v by_o its_o description_n of_o the_o constant_a certain_a and_o inseparable_a operation_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n describe_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o work_n of_o the_o believe_a disposition_n or_o describe_v the_o various_a effect_n of_o faith_n 1._o by_o the_o write_a word_n declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v by_o love_n to_o jesus_n christ_n gal._n 5.6_o 2._o by_o declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v to_o abase_v the_o soul_n in_o itself_o and_o make_v it_o altogether_o nothing_o rom._n 3.27_o 3._o the_o scripture_n do_v declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v by_o purify_n the_o heart_n cleanse_v it_o from_o all_o unholy_a disposition_n acts._n 15_o 9_o 4._o in_o declare_v that_o the_o proper_a operation_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o high_a and_o unspeakable_a estimation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o phil._n 3._o 8_o 9_o now_o thus_o the_o write_a word_n declare_v the_o proper_a manner_n of_o the_o operation_n of_o faith_n do_v declare_v particular_o unto_o any_o particular_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o same_o write_a word_n declare_v that_o in_o whatever_o heart_n the_o believe_a disposition_n thus_o particular_o work_v there_o be_v that_o precious_a believe_a act_n the_o lord_n require_v there_o be_v that_o precious_a faith_n unfeigned_a that_o jesus_n christ_n command_v in_o his_o precious_a gospel_n and_o so_o it_o speak_v particular_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n thou_o do_v believe_v with_o that_o precious_a faith_n unfeigned_a that_o jesus_n christ_n require_v and_o thus_o the_o spirit_n do_v but_o make_v this_o write_a word_n of_o god_n speak_v to_o the_o soul_n understanding_n what_o it_o do_v always_o speak_v in_o itself_o which_o be_v that_o that_o particular_a soul_n do_v now_o believe_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n so_o
be_v not_o delude_v then_o see_v whether_o that_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o your_o soul_n have_v shine_v from_o the_o lord_n write_v word_n yet_o let_v i_o add_v a_o caution_n in_o this_o lest_o i_o may_v possible_o shake_v some_o soul_n into_o who_o heart_n some_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n have_v real_o descend_v to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o the_o light_n that_o do_v shine_v into_o every_o soul_n which_o true_o proceed_v from_o god_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v and_o aught_o to_o shine_v forth_o from_o the_o lord_n write_v word_n yet_o i_o dare_v not_o affirm_v that_o whenever_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n do_v discover_v to_o a_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n clear_o both_o to_o faith_n and_o sense_n that_o then_o the_o spirit_n fasten_v some_o particular_a portion_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n by_o name_n from_o such_o a_o chapter_n and_o verse_n from_o whence_o the_o 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all_o the_o effect_n that_o any_o thing_n that_o proceed_v from_o god_n beget_v in_o believe_v soul_n be_v but_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o lord_n eternal_a intent_n they_o be_v but_o the_o production_n of_o the_o lord_n precious_a thought_n of_o love_n towards_o those_o believe_a soul_n from_o before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v so_o that_o whatever_o be_v communicate_v to_o any_o believe_a soul_n if_o it_o do_v demonstrate_v itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o god_n by_o its_o effect_n that_o it_o beget_v in_o he_o it_o must_v then_o conduce_v in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o lord_n precious_a eternal_a will_n towards_o that_o believe_a soul_n now_o those_o eternal_a intent_n of_o god_n towards_o believe_v soul_n they_o may_v be_v reduce_v to_o three_o head_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n sum_v they_o in_o 1_o cor._n 3.22_o 23._o all_o be_v you_o whether_o paul_n or_o apollo_n or_o cephas_n or_o the_o world_n or_o life_n or_o 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the_o perfect_a manifestation_n of_o the_o father_n glory_n through_o both_o these_o and_o therefore_o see_v these_o three_o be_v those_o prime_a and_o principal_a end_n the_o very_a ultimate_a end_n of_o god_n the_o very_a sum_n and_o compendium_n of_o all_o those_o precious_a thought_n that_o wrought_v in_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v thence_o whatsoever_o proceed_v from_o god_n into_o a_o believe_a soul_n must_v in_o some_o degree_n or_o other_o tend_v towards_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o one_o of_o those_o end_n so_o that_o it_o must_v demonstrate_v itself_o to_o proceed_v from_o god_n by_o one_o of_o those_o three_o effect_n if_o it_o any_o way_n can_v be_v prove_v by_o its_o effect_n to_o proceed_v from_o god_n himself_o only_o by_o the_o way_n you_o must_v take_v this_o distinction_n for_o prevention_n of_o mistake_n the_o deal_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o saint_n do_v either_o immediate_o to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o the_o exaltation_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o father_n glory_n or_o else_o they_o tend_v immediate_o the_o lord_n promissive_a will_n or_o the_o lord_n sufferance_n of_o a_o believer_n to_o sin_n do_v not_o immediate_o manifest_v any_o of_o these_o yet_o mediate_o it_o do_v perfect_a all_o that_o when_o the_o lord_n do_v suffer_v the_o soul_n to_o slide_v and_o fall_v yet_o then_o through_o the_o mighty_a power_n of_o his_o love_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n in_o christ_n he_o do_v send_v down_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n so_o to_o work_v in_o that_o believe_a soul_n that_o those_o very_a fall_n and_o slip_n and_o backslide_n of_o that_o believe_a soul_n shall_v produce_v more_o watchfulness_n over_o his_o own_o way_n more_o charity_n towards_o other_o more_o abomination_n of_o those_o
martyrdom_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n be_v account_v such_o a_o high_a honour_v of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o the_o lord_n testify_v such_o respect_n to_o those_o that_o do_v suffer_v for_o his_o name_n in_o regard_n by_o those_o their_o suffering_n wherein_o they_o seem_v to_o slight_v their_o estate_n their_o outward_a liberty_n their_o life_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o christ_n they_o declare_v there_o be_v all_o fullness_n of_o contentment_n in_o he_o that_o there_o be_v happiness_n enough_o for_o they_o that_o all_o outward_a contentment_n the_o confluence_n of_o all_o the_o happiness_n that_o the_o earth_n do_v afford_v be_v not_o to_o be_v compare_v to_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n and_o to_o the_o precious_a manifestation_n and_o sweet_a operation_n of_o it_o three_o when_o the_o soul_n send_v forth_o the_o whole_a strength_n of_o his_o soul_n in_o his_o pursuit_n of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o sweet_a discovery_n of_o that_o love_n and_o the_o most_o precious_a operation_n of_o it_o into_o and_o upon_o his_o soul_n four_o when_o there_o be_v a_o deadness_n in_o the_o heart_n towards_o all_o thing_n else_o in_o comparison_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n five_o when_o the_o soul_n can_v take_v its_o fullness_n of_o contentment_n in_o that_o love_n in_o the_o absence_n of_o all_o thing_n else_o when_o a_o soul_n can_v actual_o drink_v such_o full_a draft_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o say_v promise_v himself_o such_o happiness_n contentment_n unspeakable_a perfection_n of_o glory_n in_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o that_o love_n that_o the_o heart_n say_v practical_o it_o be_v enough_o though_o the_o heaven_n shall_v withdraw_v their_o light_n and_o the_o earth_n all_o her_o advantage_n that_o ever_o she_o can_v afford_v see_v there_o be_v the_o love_n of_o my_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o i_o shall_v actual_o enjoy_v now_o further_o we_o be_v to_o show_v you_o that_o this_o manifestation_n or_o declaration_n practical_o by_o the_o believer_n that_o all_o perfection_n and_o glory_n be_v eminent_o contain_v in_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n be_v the_o necessary_a certain_a infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o god_n to_o a_o believe_a soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n so_o that_o whenever_o any_o beam_n of_o light_n be_v cast_v down_o from_o heaven_n into_o the_o dark_a soul_n of_o any_o believer_n to_o manifest_v certain_o its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n then_o certain_o also_o that_o ever_o bless_a name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o the_o believe_a in_o that_o that_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n do_v necessary_o cause_v that_o believer_n to_o manifest_v and_o declare_v practical_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n that_o there_o be_v all_o perfection_n excellency_n and_o glory_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v suitable_a for_o the_o believe_a soul_n contain_v in_o that_o love_n eminent_o transcendent_o infallible_o as_o will_v appear_v further_o by_o open_v every_o particular_a way_n and_o mean_n how_o the_o believe_a soul_n do_v practical_o manifest_a that_o there_o be_v fullness_n in_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o such_o unlovely_a sinner_n as_o the_o lord_n declare_v as_o i._o the_o kind_n of_o fullness_n of_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v which_o be_v a_o prime_n and_o principal_a mean_n how_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v by_o a_o believe_a soul_n be_v the_o necessary_a and_o infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n into_o a_o soul_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o you_o may_v observe_v from_o 1_o pet._n 1.8_o who_o have_v not_o see_v you_o love_n in_o who_o though_o now_o you_o see_v he_o not_o yet_o believe_v you_o rejoice_v with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n with_o joy_v unspeakable_a joy_n that_o can_v be_v utter_v either_o by_o the_o tongue_n of_o man_n or_o angel_n joy_v it_o be_v full_a of_o glory_n that_o be_v full_a of_o excellency_n and_o sweetness_n delight_n and_o contentment_n their_o believe_v produce_v this_o effect_n a_o unspeakable_a joy_n in_o their_o heart_n then_o much_o more_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n discover_v unto_o faith_n the_o lord_n bless_a will_n to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o thereby_o powerful_o enable_v the_o believe_a soul_n to_o believe_v afresh_o and_o also_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o bless_a spirit_n manifest_v the_o soul_n believe_v act_n unto_o the_o soul_n itself_o and_o so_o discover_v both_o unto_o faith_n and_o sense_n such_o unspeakable_a matter_n of_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v much_o more_o must_v this_o fill_v the_o believe_a soul_n with_o joy_n unspeakable_a and_o full_a of_o glory_n according_a to_o that_o in_o eph._n 5.22_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v peace_n and_o joy_n mark_v it_o the_o proper_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n dwell_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v joy_n then_o certain_o that_o joy_n that_o possess_v a_o believe_a soul_n must_v needs_o be_v exceed_o eminent_o raise_v to_o a_o high_a strain_n to_o a_o superlative_a degree_n when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v dwell_v so_o plentiful_o as_o it_o do_v when_o it_o thus_o bear_v testimony_n to_o faith_n and_o testimony_n to_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o such_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o power_n and_o virtue_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n send_v down_o from_o god_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o it_o can_v but_o infallible_o produce_v such_o a_o superlative_a degree_n of_o joy_n and_o rejoice_v in_o that_o love_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n i._o in_o regard_n through_o that_o beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n and_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n the_o enlarge_v long_a restless_a breathe_n of_o that_o believe_a soul_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n accomplish_v now_o solomon_n tell_v we_o prov._n 13.12_o that_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o the_o desire_n be_v a_o tree_n of_o life_n there_o be_v such_o infinite_a sweetness_n contentment_n and_o satisfaction_n in_o the_o soul_n attain_v his_o desire_n that_o from_o thence_o the_o soul_n seem_v to_o gather_v apple_n of_o life_n from_o a_o tree_n of_o life_n ii_o in_o regard_v that_o light_n give_v the_o believe_a soul_n a_o precious_a taste_n of_o his_o mutual_a communion_n with_o his_o god_n through_o christ_n every_o believe_a act_n do_v occasion_n some_o communion_n to_o be_v between_o god_n and_o the_o believe_a soul_n but_o much_o more_o in_o that_o believe_a act_n that_o be_v heighten_v by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n to_o a_o certainty_n then_o there_o be_v large_a degree_n of_o life_n and_o holiness_n communicate_v from_o god_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o a_o kind_n of_o full_a communication_n of_o all_o the_o power_n and_o possibility_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o god_n again_o then_o god_n delight_v himself_o in_o the_o believe_a soul_n sweet_o and_o the_o soul_n reciprocal_o delight_v himself_o in_o god_n now_o the_o very_a taste_n of_o the_o communion_n which_o be_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o soul_n full_a inheritance_n which_o be_v eternal_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o can_v but_o fill_v the_o believe_a soul_n with_o joy_n and_o peace_n iii_o in_o regard_n that_o light_a occasion_n the_o believe_a soul_n to_o enjoy_v all_o that_o heaven_n itself_o can_v afford_v through_o hope_n it_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o sit_v together_o with_o christ_n by_o hope_n eph._n 2.6_o it_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o discern_v certain_o through_o believe_v the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o his_o bless_a head_n to_o be_v go_v before_o as_o a_o harbinger_n to_o prepare_v a_o place_n for_o he_o that_o the_o soul_n by_o hope_n sit_v there_o already_o and_o be_v save_v already_o 4._o that_o light_n draw_v out_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o such_o certainty_n that_o all_o the_o glory_n of_o heaven_n itself_o be_v present_v also_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n i'faith_o say_v the_o apostle_n in_o heb._n 11.1_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v that_o be_v it_o be_v such_o a_o disposition_n as_o by_o its_o precious_a work_n give_v thing_n not_o see_v a_o evident_a certainty_n unto_o the_o believe_a soul_n yea_o it_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o thing_n hope_v for_o the_o word_n in_o the_o original_n be_v very_o emphatical_a it_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v that_o which_o give_v a_o substantial_a be_v to_o thing_n hope_v for_o a_o be_v already_o that_o the_o soul_n not_o only_o enjoy_v all_o that_o heaven_n afford_v by_o hope_n but_o through_o the_o
act_n of_o say_v there_o can_v also_o but_o be_v constant_a veiw_n of_o the_o soul_n most_o abhor_a wickedness_n the_o soul_n by_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n view_v the_o reconciliation_n wrought_v by_o christ_n for_o he_o it_o can_v also_o but_o view_n the_o enmity_n of_o his_o soul_n against_o god_n in_o christ_n so_o that_o from_o the_o constant_a view_n of_o the_o soul_n vileness_n there_o can_v but_o be_v sensible_a abhorrence_n of_o that_o vileness_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o admiration_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n fill_v the_o soul_n with_o a_o constant_a sense_n of_o its_o own_o baseness_n the_o soul_n can_v be_v ravish_v in_o the_o admiration_n of_o that_o love_n but_o it_o must_v sit_v down_o and_o admire_v and_o wonder_v now_o the_o soul_n can_v never_o wonder_v at_o that_o love_n as_o it_o be_v manifest_v but_o it_o must_v take_v in_o itself_o as_o the_o object_n of_o that_o love_n whereby_o it_o be_v that_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o love_n shine_v forth_o so_o infinite_o the_o soul_n can_v but_o say_v who_o be_o i_o what_o can_v the_o lord_n discern_v in_o i_o that_o such_o riches_n of_o love_n shall_v work_v towards_o i_o so_o that_o thence_o the_o heart_n during_o the_o continuance_n of_o that_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v its_o union_n be_v keep_v constant_o work_v against_o his_o own_o vileness_n and_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o his_o vileness_n the_o soul_n proceed_v to_o a_o sensible_a acknowledgement_n thereof_o 6._o in_o regard_v such_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o light_n do_v necessary_o produce_v a_o dear_a tenderness_n in_o the_o heart_n towards_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n yea_o it_o produce_v a_o infinite_a contentment_n and_o delight_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v exalt_v god_n now_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o that_o way_n of_o his_o mercy_n towards_o he_o but_o he_o must_v begin_v with_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o own_o abhor_a wretchedness_n towards_o who_o such_o mercy_n have_v be_v discover_v he_o can_v never_o speak_v of_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n but_o he_o must_v also_o speak_v of_o the_o wretchedness_n and_o wickedness_n of_o himself_o towards_o who_o that_o love_n work_v otherwise_o the_o soul_n veil_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n so_o that_o hence_o also_o necessary_o proceed_v sensible_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o soul_n accurse_a wretchedness_n whenever_o a_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n second_o the_o second_o way_n of_o manifestation_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o freedom_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v which_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v a_o unwavering_a confidence_n in_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o vouchsafe_v the_o sweet_a embrace_n of_o love_n to_o the_o loveless_a soul_n notwithstanding_o all_o its_o wretchedness_n even_o this_o be_v the_o constant_a certain_a and_o infallible_a effect_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o heaven_n to_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o 2._o cor._n 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o the_o apostle_n declare_v they_o have_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o inheritance_n they_o have_v receive_v a_o pawn_n from_o heaven_n a_o pledge_n of_o everlasting_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n say_v he_o we_o be_v always_o confident_a will_v rather_o to_o be_v absent_a from_o the_o body_n and_o present_a with_o the_o lord_n so_o likewise_o in_o rom._n 8.23_o those_o that_o have_v receive_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n do_v groan_n after_o the_o full_a redemption_n of_o their_o body_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n be_v fill_v with_o holy_a confidence_n as_o you_o may_v observe_v ver_fw-la 33.34_o who_o shall_v lay_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o charge_n of_o god_n elect_n speak_v in_o the_o person_n of_o those_o that_o have_v receive_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n who_o be_v he_o that_o condemn_v it_o be_v christ_n thas_o die_v who_o shall_v separate_v we_o from_o the_o love_n of_o christ_n and_o indeed_o this_o can_v but_o be_v the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_a reveal_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n see_v the_o rock_n of_o everlasting_a certainty_n whereupon_o the_o soul_n may_v build_v the_o hope_n of_o the_o riches_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n towards_o he_o be_v reveal_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_a reveal_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n for_o you_o know_v the_o prime_a way_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_a reveal_n to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n be_v by_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o admit_v that_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v not_o execute_v its_o office_n in_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n shall_v it_o not_o establish_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o unwavering_a confidence_n while_o that_o light_n remain_v of_o enjoy_v the_o sweet_a embrace_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v notwithstanding_o all_o its_o vileness_n three_o the_o three_o act_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o it_o manifest_v the_o perfection_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n which_o be_v by_o the_o soul_n manifest_v its_o steadfastness_n in_o the_o same_o confidence_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n work_v towards_o it_o under_o the_o sense_n of_o new_a infirmity_n imperfection_n crookedness_n even_o that_o be_v also_o the_o certain_a necessary_a effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n discover_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n this_o you_o may_v observe_v in_o that_o 2._o cor._n 5._o they_o be_v sensible_a of_o their_o imperfection_n while_o they_o be_v in_o the_o body_n yet_o they_o be_v nevertheless_o confident_a have_v receive_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o spirit_n so_o rom._n 7.23_o compare_v with_o rom._n 8.1_o paul_n though_o he_o fight_v new_a combat_n though_o he_o be_v never_o lead_v captive_a by_o the_o law_n of_o his_o member_n yet_o notwithstanding_o he_o be_v confident_a that_o there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n no_o sentence_n of_o vengeance_n or_o dictate_v of_o justice_n that_o can_v pass_v out_o against_o his_o soul_n that_o be_v now_o admit_v into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o this_o indeed_o can_v but_o be_v the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v from_o god_n to_o manifest_v unto_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n see_v that_o beam_n of_o light_n first_o discover_v the_o lord_n bless_v unchangeable_a will_n to_o be_v the_o only_a foundation_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n thus_o when_o the_o glory_n and_o lustre_n of_o the_o light_n continue_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n weakness_n sinful_a disposition_n imperfection_n can_v shake_v the_o soul_n confidence_n in_o regard_n of_o that_o clear_a apprehension_n that_o then_o possess_v the_o soul_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o that_o soul_n that_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n that_o he_o hope_n for_o and_o in_o regard_n also_o a_o dear_a apprehension_n possess_v the_o soul_n that_o there_o be_v the_o same_o motive_n and_o argument_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o that_o ever_o bless_a god_n of_o love_n yet_o to_o love_v that_o unlovely_a soul_n notwithstanding_o his_o new_a infirmity_n his_o new_a backslide_a disposition_n or_o proneness_n to_o backslide_v now_o such_o a_o manifestation_n of_o the_o steadfastness_n in_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o new_a infirmity_n can_v but_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o such_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n in_o regard_n the_o unchangeableness_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o be_v reveal_v to_o admit_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n be_v clear_o reveal_v by_o the_o power_n of_o that_o light_n so_o that_o while_o the_o beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o that_o light_n continue_v though_o new_a corrupt_a disposition_n arise_v in_o the_o believe_a soul_n yet_o the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n shake_v not_o because_o it_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n in_o fulfil_v his_o bless_a will_n to_o the_o soul_n which_o will_v of_o he_o be_v unchangeable_a so_o that_o then_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v exalt_v through_o every_o believe_a soul_n in_o the_o glorious_a freedom_n of_o his_o love_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o unlovely_a sinner_n by_o and_o through_o the_o spirit_n discovery_n to_o the_o soul_n certain_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n iii_o a_o soul_n do_v manifest_v the_o glorious_a perfection_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o
we_o be_v all_o as_o a_o unclean_a thing_n and_o all_o our_o righteousness_n all_o our_o duty_n and_o performance_n our_o most_o holy_a act_n they_o be_v but_o as_o filthy_a rag_n likewise_o it_o be_v observable_a in_o the_o holy_a man_n job_n who_o stand_v much_o upon_o his_o own_o uprightness_n and_o integrity_n chap._n 23.11_o 12._o and_o chap._n 27.5_o 6._o till_o i_o die_v i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n from_o i_o that_o be_v i_o will_v not_o deny_v my_o innocency_n and_o righteousness_n i_o have_v walk_v before_o god_n with_o a_o perfect_a heart_n i_o will_v never_o reproach_v myself_o till_o i_o die_v so_o chap._n 31.6_o let_v i_o be_v weigh_v in_o a_o even_a balance_n that_o god_n may_v know_v my_o integrity_n yet_o in_o chap._n 4.3_o 4._o this_o job_n that_o can_v declare_v so_o many_o righteous_a act_n of_o his_o own_o begin_v free_o to_o acknowledge_v that_o all_o his_o righteousness_n be_v as_o vileness_n though_o those_o action_n of_o righteousness_n have_v be_v perform_v by_o he_o with_o much_o integrity_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o infinite_a disproportion_n between_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n then_o say_v job_n behold_v i_o be_o vile_a what_o shall_v i_o answer_v thou_o i_o have_v lay_v my_o hand_n upon_o my_o mouth_n once_o have_v i_o speak_v but_o i_o will_v not_o answer_v yea_o twice_o but_o i_o will_v proceed_v no_o further_o i_o will_v not_o call_v to_o god_n to_o weigh_v i_o in_o a_o balance_n any_o more_o that_o he_o may_v know_v my_o integrity_n so_o chap._n 42.5_o 6._o i_o have_v hear_v of_o thou_o by_o the_o hear_n of_o the_o ear_n but_o now_o my_o eye_n see_v thou_o wherefore_o i_o abhor_v myself_o and_o repent_v in_o dust_n and_o ash_n repent_v that_o be_v the_o thought_n of_o myself_o now_o change_n i_o be_o so_o ashamed_a i_o loathe_v and_o abhor_v myself_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o all_o my_o integrity_n and_o righteousness_n that_o i_o so_o much_o stand_v upon_o and_o certain_o there_o be_v a_o infallible_a necessity_n of_o a_o soul_n exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n through_o those_o sensible_a free_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o infinite_a disproportion_n between_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o his_o will_n and_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v whenever_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n do_v reveal_v to_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n spiritual_a sight_n be_v then_o lively_a active_a and_o ready_a for_o exercise_v the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v as_o it_o be_v open_a and_o in_o every_o duty_n that_o he_o perform_v to_o god_n he_o can_v behold_v the_o least_o inward_a sluggishness_n and_o indisposedness_n so_o as_o the_o least_o of_o those_o infirmity_n be_v burdensome_a and_o mark_v that_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o believe_a soul_n once_o decay_v in_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n lose_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o evidence_n to_o their_o soul_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n because_o every_o day_n their_o own_o formality_n hardness_n blockishness_n insensibleness_n be_v less_o burdensome_a to_o they_o because_o the_o faculty_n of_o spiritual_a sight_n be_v out_o of_o exercise_n and_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n also_o that_o under_o the_o clear_a sight_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n there_o be_v the_o large_a confession_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o vileness_n the_o spiritual_a faculty_n of_o sight_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v then_o draw_v up_o in_o its_o strength_n that_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a reason_n why_o those_o soul_n that_o enjoy_v the_o clear_a revelation_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n be_v the_o most_o abase_v soul_n 2._o when_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n than_o the_o precious_a heavenly_a light_n that_o discover_v all_o the_o unsutableness_n of_o the_o soul_n will_v to_o god_n will_v shine_v clear_o and_o actual_o the_o transparent_a light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o so_o unlovely_a a_o soul_n be_v like_o a_o bless_a heavenly_a lamp_n light_v up_o within_o the_o believer_n heart_n through_o the_o light_n of_o which_o the_o soul_n may_v see_v every_o unsutableness_n in_o his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n and_o that_o in_o its_o vileness_n in_o its_o most_o odious_a native_a colour_n yea_o that_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o the_o loveless_a soul_n cause_v the_o infinite_a right_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v to_o claim_v all_o the_o power_n and_o possibility_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o he_o to_o shine_v clear_o in_o the_o soul_n it_o make_v the_o heart_n say_v within_o itself_o o_o how_o infinite_o due_a be_v every_o act_n of_o my_o soul_n to_o god_n to_o be_v employ_v only_o for_o his_o bless_a pleasure_n so_o that_o now_o there_o be_v light_n without_o to_o enable_v the_o soul_n to_o see_v the_o unsutableness_n of_o its_o will_n to_o god_n will_v as_o well_o as_o there_o be_v light_n within_o that_o the_o soul_n see_v not_o only_o like_o a_o man_n have_v a_o perfect_a sight_n but_o as_o a_o man_n with_o a_o perfect_a sight_n in_o a_o clear_a sunshine_n day_n that_o shall_v discern_v every_o more_o in_o the_o sun_n beam_n that_o a_o man_n with_o a_o clear_a sight_n in_o a_o dark_a day_n can_v behold_v and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n can_v but_o draw_v forth_o a_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o infinite_a disproportion_n of_o the_o soul_n act_n to_o the_o lord_n holy_a will_n in_o regard_n the_o soul_n be_v then_o enable_v to_o discern_v the_o small_a unsutableness_n that_o be_v in_o his_o will_n to_o the_o lord_n will_n 3._o in_o regard_v that_o light_n that_o shine_v into_o the_o soul_n at_o that_o time_n discover_v those_o unholiness_n in_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n whereof_o a_o believe_a soul_n be_v most_o peculiar_o guilty_a in_o all_o his_o holy_a act_n there_o be_v four_o want_n of_o holiness_n in_o all_o the_o act_n of_o believe_a soul_n in_o some_o measure_n and_o degree_n first_o the_o want_n of_o pure_a love_n in_o all_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n the_o want_n of_o the_o soul_n aim_v mere_o at_o the_o exaltation_n and_o glory_n of_o his_o dear_a father_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o so_o act_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o father_n bless_a will_n from_o a_o pure_a childlike_a disposition_n work_v in_o the_o heart_n that_o dispose_v he_o to_o comply_v with_o the_o father_n will_v only_o only_o because_o his_o father_n will_n this_o be_v pure_a love_n when_o the_o soul_n out_o of_o love_n to_o god_n himself_o without_o relation_n to_o any_o benefit_n or_o advantage_n that_o the_o soul_n enjoy_v without_o relation_n to_o any_o fear_n of_o any_o loss_n or_o damage_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v suffer_v through_o disobedience_n to_o aim_v at_o and_o intend_v only_o the_o fulfil_n of_o his_o bless_a father_n will_n now_o this_o in_o every_o holy_a duty_n the_o soul_n perform_v be_v in_o some_o degree_n of_o its_o perfection_n want_v second_o there_o be_v the_o want_n of_o freedom_n of_o spirit_n or_o liberty_n in_o their_o holy_a act_n in_o their_o will_n agree_v with_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n breathe_v upon_o the_o holy_a disposition_n and_o inclination_n infuse_v into_o believer_n will_v most_o sweet_o and_o powerful_o and_o assist_v they_o strong_o in_o their_o exercise_n yet_o then_o while_o they_o dwell_v in_o these_o body_n of_o clay_n while_o the_o old_a man_n remain_v not_o whole_o crucify_v there_o want_v some_o perfection_n of_o liberty_n in_o their_o spirit_n in_o these_o holy_a act_n the_o soul_n be_v not_o whole_o void_a of_o some_o inclination_n and_o disposition_n act_v secret_o that_o bend_v the_o soul_n from_o those_o holy_a act_n that_o yet_o the_o soul_n be_v exercise_v in_o three_o in_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o believe_a soul_n there_o be_v a_o want_n of_o fullness_n of_o complacency_n delight_n and_o contentment_n in_o those_o holy_a act_n the_o flesh_n mutter_v and_o murmur_n against_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n this_o make_v paul_n say_v with_o my_o mind_n i_o serve_v the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o with_o my_o flesh_n the_o law_n of_o sin_n and_o i_o delight_v in_o the_o law_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o inward_a man_n still_o there_o be_v a_o opposite_a party_n that_o be_v not_o satisfy_v in_o those_o holy_a act_n the_o spirit_n be_v willing_a say_v christ_n concern_v his_o apostle_n but_o the_o flesh_n be_v weak_a the_o flesh_n will_v never_o answer_v the_o spirit_n readiness_n perfect_o so_o as_o all_o the_o whole_a power_n and_o possibility_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n shall_v run_v parallel_n with_o one_o another_o in_o their_o holy_a
act_n till_o this_o mortal_a shall_v have_v put_v on_o immortality_n four_o there_o be_v a_o want_n of_o a_o absolute_a nothingness_n in_o the_o soul_n in_o the_o precious_a holy_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o vile_a principle_n of_o self-confidence_n be_v so_o firm_o root_v in_o our_o nature_n that_o when_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v have_v a_o bless_a work_n upon_o the_o unholy_a heart_n yet_o than_o the_o bitter_a root_n of_o self-confidence_n will_v be_v send_v forth_o some_o curse_a sprig_n be_v will_n sprout_v forth_o in_o some_o unholy_a act_n even_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o soul_n act_n the_o soul_n be_v never_o perfect_o and_o absolute_o nothing_o in_o himself_o in_o his_o holy_a act_n thence_o you_o may_v observe_v from_o your_o experience_n a_o infinite_a difficulty_n that_o you_o find_v after_o great_a enlargement_n of_o heart_n in_o a_o holy_a duty_n then_o to_o think_v no_o better_o of_o yourselves_o for_o the_o duty_n it_o must_v be_v a_o mighty_a power_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o must_v draw_v forth_o from_o a_o soul_n at_o such_o a_o time_n that_o voice_n in_o sincerity_n say_v not_o i_o but_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o i_o now_o that_o light_n that_o discover_v unto_o a_o believe_a soul_n those_o unholiness_n of_o he_o whereof_o the_o believe_a soul_n be_v constant_o guilty_a in_o some_o degree_n in_o all_o his_o holy_a act_n be_v a_o unseparable_a attendant_n upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n there_o be_v only_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n to_o the_o worthless_a nothing-like_a soul_n that_o discover_v the_o want_n of_o pure_a love_n in_o the_o soul_n act_n of_o holiness_n it_o be_v the_o vision_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o excite_v and_o stir_v up_o act_n of_o love_n in_o the_o soul_n unto_o god_n so_o likewise_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n unto_o the_o soul_n enable_v the_o soul_n to_o discern_v the_o want_n of_o pure_a perfect_a love_n in_o his_o soul_n unto_o god_n it_o be_v then_o when_o a_o soul_n see_v that_o love_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n unto_o his_o unlovely_a unspeakable_a soul_n that_o he_o apprehend_v deep_o that_o the_o most_o superlative_a act_n of_o his_o love_n be_v due_a from_o he_o unto_o god_n again_o and_o then_o do_v the_o soul_n discern_v the_o great_a evil_n of_o the_o imperfection_n of_o the_o act_n of_o his_o own_o love_n so_o as_o to_o answer_v the_o act_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v out_o of_o pure_a love_n only_o thence_o it_o be_v when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n do_v evidence_n unto_o it_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n then_o any_o slavish_a working_n of_o fear_n be_v tedious_a and_o burdensome_a unto_o the_o soul_n whereas_o before_o the_o soul_n think_v those_o act_n of_o fear_n if_o they_o bring_v forth_o but_o some_o tear_n to_o be_v precious_a act_n but_o now_o it_o loathe_v they_o so_o likewise_o it_o be_v only_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o worthless_a soul_n that_o discover_v clear_o the_o want_n of_o freedom_n and_o liberty_n in_o the_o heart_n in_o its_o holy_a act_n then_o indeed_o the_o soul_n groan_v not_o only_o for_o the_o want_n of_o his_o heart_n answer_v the_o lord_n will_v in_o obedience_n and_o so_o for_o want_v of_o holy_a act_n but_o he_o groan_v under_o the_o want_n of_o freedom_n of_o spirit_n in_o those_o holy_a act_n also_o so_o likewise_o the_o want_n of_o perfect_a rest_n and_o complacency_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o his_o holy_a act_n be_v make_v manifest_a only_o through_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glorious_a love_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o loveless_a soul_n no_o soul_n can_v discern_v matter_n wherein_o he_o may_v take_v up_o a_o fullness_n of_o rest_n only_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v till_o he_o discern_v god_n as_o he_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o his_o unlovely_a soul_n and_o therefore_o the_o want_n of_o the_o soul_n fullness_n of_o contentment_n in_o the_o act_n of_o holiness_n can_v never_o be_v make_v clear_o manifest_a till_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o jesus_n christ_n shine_v upon_o it_o yea_o the_o lively_a beauty_n excellency_n and_o glory_n that_o be_v in_o the_o bare_a fulfil_n of_o the_o lord_n holy_a will_n only_o shine_v clear_o to_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o the_o want_n of_o a_o absolute_a nothingness_n in_o himself_o in_o his_o holy_a act_n be_v make_v apparent_a to_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o jesus_n christ_n shine_v upon_o he_o never_o can_v a_o soul_n apprehend_v that_o all_o that_o he_o be_v and_o all_o that_o the_o power_n and_o possibility_n of_o his_o soul_n can_v perform_v and_o infinite_o more_o be_v due_a from_o his_o soul_n unto_o god_n till_o the_o glorious_a light_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n shine_v upon_o he_o it_o be_v only_o when_o the_o light_n of_o that_o love_n shine_v that_o the_o heart_n say_v in_o sincerity_n to_o itself_o what_o think_v thou_o o_o my_o heart_n be_v due_a to_o thou_o though_o now_o thou_o have_v be_v enlarge_v by_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o holy_a duty_n be_v not_o a_o unprofitable_a servant_n not_o have_v give_v to_o the_o lord_n the_o hundred_o thousand_o part_n what_o thou_o do_v owe_v to_o he_o iv_o when_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n sensible_a free_a acknowledgement_n of_o a_o infinite_a disproportion_n in_o the_o most_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o the_o lord_n holy_a bless_a will_n be_v necessary_o draw_v forth_o in_o regard_n the_o unholiness_n that_o constant_o attend_v in_o some_o degree_n the_o act_n of_o holiness_n in_o soul_n be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n most_o cross_a and_o opposite_a to_o the_o soul_n desire_n the_o desire_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v but_o the_o reaching_n forth_o of_o love_n and_o the_o high_a act_n of_o love_n be_v the_o necessary_a effect_n of_o those_o high_a discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n thence_o necessary_o the_o high_a desire_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v raise_v to_o a_o superlative_a height_n after_o fullness_n of_o unity_n and_o perfect_a communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n when_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n v._o when_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o spiritual_a sense_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v then_o most_o lively_a the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v constant_o a_o quicken_a spirit_n where_o he_o be_v a_o comfort_a spirit_n the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o comfort_n can_v but_o be_v fill_v with_o life_n and_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v fill_v with_o life_n sense_n be_v also_o lively_a so_o that_o thence_o the_o soul_n at_o that_o time_n be_v most_o sensible_a of_o his_o own_o unholiness_n and_o thence_o necessary_o be_v constrain_v to_o acknowledge_v sensible_o the_o disagreement_n of_o his_o will_n in_o his_o most_o holy_a act_n to_o the_o lord_n most_o holy_a bless_a will_n 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o any_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n do_v certain_o draw_v forth_o free_a declaration_n from_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o least_o transgression_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n be_v just_a occasion_n of_o incense_a the_o wrath_n of_o god_n infinite_o and_o eternal_o against_o the_o soul_n and_o just_a occasion_n of_o unspeakable_a perplexipy_a and_o grief_n to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o through_o this_o a_o soul_n declare_v that_o bless_a will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v so_o absolute_o so_o perfect_o holy_a that_o the_o least_o oppose_v of_o that_o bless_a will_n may_v just_o deprive_v he_o of_o acceptance_n thus_o you_o may_v observe_v when_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n stir_v up_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o church_n to_o precious_a believe_a act_n lament_n 3.22_o 23_o 24._o then_o do_v the_o same_o spirit_n draw_v from_o their_o mouth_n sensible_a declaration_n that_o the_o least_o of_o their_o transgression_n do_v just_o expose_v they_o to_o the_o everlasting_a burn_a to_o be_v consume_v in_o the_o fire_n of_o the_o lord_n indignation_n then_o she_o cry_v out_o it_o be_v of_o the_o lord_n mercy_n that_o we_o be_v not_o consume_v because_o his_o compassion_n fail_v not_o so_o likewise_o in_o psal_n 130.3_o when_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o psalmist_n be_v up_o in_o believe_v act_n then_o say_v he_o if_o thou_o shall_v mark_v iniquity_n who_o shall_v stand_v the_o least_o iniquity_n that_o remain_v in_o the_o most_o sanctify_a soul_n
be_v enough_o to_o cast_v they_o down_o into_o the_o everlasting_a lake_n of_o burn_a if_o the_o lord_n shall_v act_v in_o justice_n with_o they_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o when_o jesus_n christ_n draw_v forth_o the_o sweet_a believe_v act_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o believer_n than_o they_o be_v most_o ready_a to_o accept_v of_o any_o chastisement_n that_o the_o lord_n inflict_v upon_o they_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o transgression_n lament_v 3.39_o so_o that_o thence_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o clear_a beam_n of_o light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n reveal_v unto_o they_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v common_o most_v fill_v with_o acclamation_n against_o themselves_o and_o all_o their_o prayer_n fill_v with_o self-judging_n and_o abhorring_n yea_o likewise_o hence_o it_o be_v also_o that_o believe_v soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v fill_v with_o those_o high_a admiration_n and_o that_o their_o soul_n conceive_v of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n to_o they_o as_o a_o mystery_n unsearchable_a past_o find_v out_o either_o by_o man_n or_o angel_n because_o than_o they_o apprehend_v the_o infinite_a worthiness_n of_o those_o thousand_o and_o ten_o thousand_o and_o million_o of_o iniquity_n that_o they_o have_v commit_v to_o incense_v the_o anger_n of_o the_o lord_n against_o their_o soul_n yea_o likewise_o hence_o also_o proceed_v those_o enlarge_a desire_n after_o the_o sweet_a melt_n of_o heart_n for_o sin_n from_o those_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n have_v certain_o evidence_v their_o union_n with_o he_o but_o as_o the_o scripture_n testify_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o this_o so_o reason_n testify_v that_o there_o can_v but_o be_v a_o connexion_n between_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n sense_n of_o worthiness_n for_o the_o least_o transgression_n to_o be_v punish_v with_o everlasting_a indignation_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n do_v declare_v and_o manifest_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o equity_n of_o a_o perfect_a subjection_n of_o every_o soul_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v holy_a will_n when_o the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n be_v willing_a to_o be_v reconcile_v and_o unite_v to_o poor_a despicable_a rebellious_a wretch_n to_o those_o who_o heart_n swell_v with_o enmity_n against_o the_o crown_n of_o his_o glory_n yea_o when_o the_o spirit_n testify_v that_o the_o lord_n even_o seek_v and_o sue_v for_o the_o reconciliation_n with_o the_o soul_n thence_o it_o can_v but_o be_v clear_o manifest_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v but_o infinite_o equal_a that_o a_o poor_a rebellious_a wretch_n yea_o such_o a_o desperate_a enemy_n to_o his_o bless_a majesty_n shall_v consent_v to_o what_o the_o lord_n propound_v now_o from_o this_o manifestation_n of_o the_o infinite_a equity_n of_o a_o perfect_a subjection_n to_o be_v give_v by_o every_o soul_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n from_o thence_o there_o be_v necessary_o such_o deep_a apprehension_n of_o the_o infinite_a injustice_n and_o unsearchable_a depth_n of_o unrighteousness_n and_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o the_o least_o contradict_v that_o bless_a will_n that_o the_o soul_n conceive_v every_o such_o transgression_n or_o disobedience_n to_o that_o bless_a will_n to_o be_v infinite_o worthy_a to_o be_v punish_v with_o infinite_a and_o everlasting_a indignation_n 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n do_v declare_v the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o goodness_n in_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n so_o as_o it_o manifest_v every_o motion_n of_o that_o will_v to_o be_v absolute_o transcendent_o good_a when_o the_o spirit_n bear_v witness_v unto_o any_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n it_o represent_v god_n only_o as_o a_o mass_n of_o love_n in_o jesus_n christ_n it_o represent_v god_n will_v all_o kind_n and_o degree_n of_o good_a unto_o every_o soul_n that_o will_v accept_v it_o and_o thence_o every_o act_n of_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n be_v represent_v to_o the_o soul_n as_o absolute_o good_a now_o by_o that_o mean_v every_o transgression_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v represent_v as_o in_o opposition_n to_o infinite_a goodness_n and_o thence_o every_o transgression_n can_v but_o be_v apprehend_v as_o a_o just_a occasion_n for_o infinite_a wrath_n and_o indignation_n to_o burn_v in_o its_o fierceness_n and_o extremity_n against_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v necessary_o occasion_v the_o soul_n to_o declare_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n that_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n cause_v any_o soul_n to_o participate_v in_o some_o degree_n of_o his_o holiness_n this_o the_o apostle_n testify_v in_o 2._o cor._n 3.18_o that_o while_o they_o do_v with_o open-face_n behold_v as_o in_o a_o glass_n the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n they_o be_v change_v into_o the_o same_o in_o age_n from_o glory_n to_o glory_n that_o be_v they_o be_v conform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o god_n while_o they_o see_v the_o beam_n of_o his_o excellency_n glitter_v upon_o they_o through_o the_o great_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o that_o gradual_o according_a as_o they_o behold_v the_o glory_n so_o they_o be_v change_v also_o by_o degree_n from_o glory_n unto_o glory_n from_o one_o degree_n of_o likeness_n unto_o god_n to_o another_o degree_n thus_o likewise_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1_o john_n 1.5_o 6._o that_o god_n be_v light_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o he_o be_v holiness_n itself_o pure_o holy_a nothing_o but_o holy_a and_o then_o bear_v witness_n that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o soul_n to_o have_v the_o least_o fellowship_n with_o he_o but_o we_o must_v be_v partaker_n of_o that_o holiness_n if_o we_o say_v that_o we_o have_v fellowship_n with_o he_o and_o walk_v in_o darkness_n we_o lie_v and_o do_v not_o the_o truth_n as_o if_o the_o apostle_n have_v speak_v in_o these_o word_n the_o lord_n be_v so_o infinite_o transcendent_o holy_a such_o a_o infinite_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o he_o and_o a_o infinite_a averseness_n to_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v unholy_a that_o it_o be_v impossible_a any_o soul_n shall_v dwell_v with_o he_o but_o he_o must_v participate_v of_o his_o holiness_n so_o in_o 1_o john_n 2.6_o he_o that_o say_v he_o abide_v in_o he_o ought_v himself_o also_o to_o walk_v even_o as_o he_o walk_v so_o likewise_o he_o testify_v the_o same_o thing_n again_o in_o 1_o john_n 3._o 6._o whosoever_o abide_v in_o he_o that_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n have_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o sin_v not_o that_o be_v he_o sin_v not_o according_a to_o the_o manner_n that_o he_o sin_v before_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v other_o disposition_n infuse_v into_o his_o heart_n there_o be_v some_o drop_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o jesus_n christ_n communicate_v to_o his_o soul_n through_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n whosoever_o sin_v have_v not_o see_v he_o neither_o know_v he_o that_o be_v whoever_o sin_n in_o the_o same_o manner_n that_o he_o do_v when_o he_o be_v void_a of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n void_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o whatever_o he_o profess_v he_o have_v not_o the_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n that_o join_v his_o heart_n to_o christ_n he_o never_o have_v the_o true_a vision_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o jesus_n christ_n he_o have_v not_o so_o see_v he_o whereby_o his_o soul_n be_v transform_v into_o the_o likeness_n of_o christ_n and_o in_o regard_n of_o this_o that_o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n do_v necessary_o cause_v such_o a_o declaration_n that_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n cause_n the_o soul_n to_o participate_v of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n thence_o it_o be_v first_o that_o the_o sin_n and_o transgression_n of_o a_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v so_o intolerable_o burdensome_a this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n melt_v and_o break_v so_o sweet_o under_o the_o remembrance_n of_o any_o sin_n that_o they_o be_v confound_v in_o themselves_o that_o they_o loath_a and_o abhor_v themselves_o in_o regard_n the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v so_o eclipse_v and_o thence_o the_o remembrance_n of_o his_o own_o sin_n wound_v so_o deep_o because_o in_o effect_n he_o by_o sensual_a formal_a unworthy_a walk_n do_v declare_v that_o communion_n with_o god_n do_v not_o make_v he_o partaker_n
of_o his_o holiness_n second_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n why_o the_o sin_n of_o those_o that_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n do_v stir_v up_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n in_o a_o superlative_a manner_n though_o his_o displeasure_n work_v but_o in_o a_o fatherly_a manner_n against_o their_o person_n because_o by_o their_o sin_n the_o glory_n of_o his_o holiness_n be_v eclipse_v they_o profess_v god_n not_o to_o be_v so_o absolute_o holy_a but_o a_o soul_n may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o god_n and_o yet_o be_v unholy_a and_o this_o cast_v a_o black_a cloud_n upon_o the_o lord_n perfect_a holiness_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o lord_n complain_v so_o bitter_o against_o the_o choose_a nation_n of_o the_o jew_n when_o they_o walk_v unholy_a and_o unsutable_o because_o they_o cause_v his_o name_n to_o be_v pollute_v among_o the_o heathen_a ezek._n 36.21_o 22_o 23._o thence_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n be_v incense_v so_o high_a against_o the_o holy_a man_n david_n because_o of_o his_o unworthy_a walk_n 2._o sam._n 12.14_o thou_o have_v cause_v the_o enemy_n of_o god_n to_o blaspheme_v that_o be_v to_o speak_v against_o god_n to_o have_v unworthy_a thought_n of_o god_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o lord_n testify_v a_o high_a degree_n of_o abhorrence_n of_o his_o people_n sin_n than_o he_o do_v of_o the_o sin_n of_o those_o that_o be_v not_o join_v to_o he_o and_o remit_v into_o union_n with_o he_o in_o christ_n thence_o the_o lord_n command_v the_o apostle_n to_o profess_v more_o displeasure_n against_o the_o sin_n of_o they_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v one_o with_o god_n then_o against_o the_o sin_n of_o any_o other_o 1._o cor._n 5.9_o 10_o 11._o if_o any_o man_n that_o be_v call_v a_o brother_n be_v a_o fornicator_n or_o covetous_a or_o a_o idolater_n or_o a_o railer_n or_o a_o drunkard_n or_o a_o extortioner_n with_o such_o a_o one_o no_v not_o to_o eat_v it_o be_v not_o mean_v eat_v at_o the_o lord_n table_n but_o to_o sit_v down_o in_o a_o civil_a way_n of_o eat_v at_o the_o table_n with_o he_o he_o veil_v god_n glory_n and_o professesâ—â—_n god_n be_v not_o so_o absolute_o pure_a but_o he_o can_v behold_v iniquity_n or_o not_o so_o absolute_o holy_a but_o there_o may_v be_v communion_n with_o he_o and_o yet_o be_v unholy_a three_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n declare_v such_o ardent_a desire_n after_o and_o such_o a_o constant_a necessity_n of_o attend_v upon_o the_o lord_n appointment_n for_o communion_n because_o hereby_o they_o declare_v that_o converse_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n do_v necessary_o make_v a_o soul_n partaker_n of_o his_o holiness_n and_o it_o be_v from_o hence_o that_o soul_n be_v always_o long_v and_o breathe_v after_o communion_n with_o god_n through_o his_o ordinance_n that_o they_o may_v be_v partaker_n of_o his_o holiness_n so_o it_o be_v through_o the_o manifestation_n of_o those_o breathe_n after_o communion_n with_o he_o that_o their_o soul_n declare_v practical_o that_o still_o further_o every_o degree_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n do_v make_v the_o soul_n further_a partaker_n of_o his_o holiness_n see_v they_o declare_v it_o be_v for_o that_o end_n they_o attend_v upon_o the_o lord_n in_o ordinance_n and_o long_o after_o ordinance_n that_o they_o may_v go_v on_o to_o perfect_a holiness_n four_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v so_o vehement_o press_v and_o urge_v believe_v soul_n to_o manifest_a holiness_n to_o walk_v worthy_a of_o god_n and_o worthy_a of_o their_o high_a calling_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n because_o hereby_o they_o declare_v that_o communion_n and_o converse_n with_o god_n do_v necessary_o make_v a_o soul_n partaker_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o walk_v holy_o be_v call_v a_o walk_a holy_a of_o their_o high_a call_n eph._n 4.1_o and_o it_o be_v call_v a_o walk_v worthy_a of_o god_n col._n 1.10_o thus_o the_o scripture_n evidence_v that_o 〈◊〉_d spirit_n reveal_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v necessary_o occasion_v the_o soul_n to_o declare_v that_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o communion_n and_o converse_n with_o god_n do_v make_v a_o soul_n partaker_n of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n and_o likewise_o even_o reason_n itself_o testify_v it_o 1._o in_o regard_v the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n give_v the_o soul_n such_o large_a and_o sweet_a experience_n that_o communion_n with_o god_n do_v make_v the_o soul_n participate_v of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n that_o thence_o the_o soul_n can_v but_o declare_v what_o he_o see_v and_o know_v by_o his_o own_o experience_n when_o once_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_n reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n both_o to_o faith_n and_o sense_n a_o soul_n be_v make_v to_o discern_v so_o clear_o such_o precious_a disposition_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v infuse_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n into_o his_o heart_n that_o thence_o he_o have_v such_o undeniable_a experience_n that_o the_o least_o vision_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o least_o communion_n of_o will_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n in_o christ_n do_v make_v the_o soul_n so_o partake_v of_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n that_o the_o soul_n can_v but_o manifest_v it_o upon_o all_o occasion_n practical_o he_o can_v but_o declare_v it_o proverbal_o upon_o every_o call_v he_o have_v to_o give_v such_o a_o testimony_n according_a to_o that_o in_o act_n 4.20_o we_o can_v but_o speak_v the_o thing_n we_o have_v see_v and_o hear_v 2._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o a_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n give_v the_o soul_n such_o affect_a experience_n of_o the_o sanctify_a virtue_n of_o communion_n with_o god_n that_o the_o heart_n be_v even_o fire_v with_o affection_n and_o thence_o it_o can_v but_o declare_v the_o glorious_a sanctifying-vertue_n in_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o soul_n receive_v light_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o light_a to_o declare_v to_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v not_o only_o enjoy_v the_o experience_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o communion_n but_o at_o that_o time_n that_o experience_n so_o take_v and_o ravish_v the_o heart_n stir_v up_o such_o rapture_n of_o love_n and_o delight_n in_o those_o act_n of_o holiness_n that_o thence_o fire_n may_v as_o soon_o keep_v in_o the_o bosom_n and_o the_o clothes_n not_o smell_v as_o solomon_n speak_v aâ—_n the_o experience_n that_o the_o soul_n enjoy_v be_v keep_v close_o unrevealed_a 3._o the_o spirit_n evidence_v unto_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n beget_v such_o ardent_a such_o superlative_a act_n of_o love_n towards_o the_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o such_o a_o high_a degree_n of_o abhorrence_n of_o all_o dishonour_n unto_o god_n that_o thence_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o absolute_a perfection_n of_o holiness_n that_o dwell_v in_o god_n by_o declare_v that_o the_o least_o communion_n with_o he_o make_v a_o soul_n holy_a do_v necessary_o grow_v in_o that_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o great_a maxim_n of_o the_o covenant_n that_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v to_o the_o soul_n beget_v love_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o god_n again_o so_o that_o then_o the_o glorious_a testimony_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v in_o christ_n in_o admission_n of_o the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n can_v but_o raise_v the_o high_a act_n of_o love_n to_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o those_o act_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n do_v and_o will_v take_v the_o honour_n and_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o their_o object_n as_o well_o as_o any_o other_o attribute_n that_o can_v be_v conceive_v in_o god_n 4._o the_o spirit_n evidence_n unto_o any_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v cause_n all_o the_o engagement_n that_o be_v lay_v by_o god_n upon_o a_o believe_a soul_n to_o exalt_v the_o name_n of_o god_n in_o his_o holiness_n to_o return_v upon_o the_o soul_n with_o power_n and_o irresistible_a strength_n there_o be_v indeed_o constant_o some_o degree_n of_o sense_n in_o every_o believe_a soul_n of_o infinite_a engagement_n lay_v by_o god_n upon_o he_o to_o oblige_v and_o engage_v he_o to_o exalt_v god_n in_o his_o holiness_n but_o those_o engagement_n be_v weak_a or_o strong_a according_a to_o the_o clearness_n or_o darkness_n of_o the_o spirit_n evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o those_o engagement_n that_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v to_o be_v lay_v upon_o he_o to_o exalt_v god_n in_o his_o holiness_n be_v also_o actual_o bring_v to_o the_o soul_n remembrance_n and_o press_v upon_o the_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o frequency_n of_o the_o spirit_n give_v actual_a evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o
with_o the_o strength_n of_o my_o soul_n after_o the_o thing_n before_o after_o the_o height_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v the_o experimental_a knowledge_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o full_a communion_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o holiness_n five_o he_o testify_v that_o he_o pass_v over_o or_o leap_v over_o all_o difficulty_n all_o impediment_n and_o hindrance_n in_o his_o strive_v after_o this_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o jesus_n christ_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n which_o be_v also_o contain_v in_o that_o he_o do_v profess_v towards_o the_o mark_n he_o do_v thrust_v through_o all_o troop_n of_o impediment_n that_o stand_v to_o oppose_v he_o in_o his_o way_n and_o with_o all_o the_o power_n and_o possibility_n of_o his_o soul_n extend_v make_v the_o pursuit_n after_o the_o full_a experience_n of_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o likewise_o he_o hear_v witness_n that_o every_o sincere_a believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o walk_v according_a to_o this_o rule_n to_o be_v thus_o mind_v for_o 15._o let_v we_o therefore_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v that_o be_v let_v we_o thus_o count_v of_o ourselves_o to_o be_v infinite_o short_a of_o that_o which_o ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v our_o soul_n whatever_o degree_n of_o holiness_n we_o have_v apprehend_v and_o let_v we_o fix_v our_o eye_n single_o and_o constant_o upon_o the_o perfect_a holiness_n that_o soul_n attain_v to_o through_o communion_n with_o christ_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n and_o let_v we_o forget_v all_o our_o labour_n and_o endeavour_n and_o all_o the_o degree_n of_o holiness_n that_o we_o have_v attaint_v to_o so_o as_o not_o to_o satisfy_v ourselves_o in_o that_o measure_n and_o degree_n and_o let_v we_o stretch_v out_o our_o arm_n after_o full_a communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o let_v we_o pass_v over_o all_o difficulty_n press_v towards_o the_o mark_n the_o fullness_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v which_o the_o lord_n have_v determine_v to_o bring_v beleiver_n to_o through_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n their_o mediator_n in_o his_o death_n and_o resurrection_n likewise_o the_o apostle_n john_n testify_v as_o much_o in_o 1_o john_n 3.3_o every_o one_o that_o have_v this_o hope_n in_o he_o purify_v himself_o even_o as_o he_o be_v pure_a mark_v what_o hope_n he_o speak_v of_o the_o second_o verse_n tell_v you_o say_v he_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o we_o know_v that_o when_o christ_n appear_v we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v so_o that_o the_o hope_n that_o he_o speak_v of_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o adoption_n the_o hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o first-born_a of_o all_o the_o elect_a one_o and_o the_o hope_n of_o their_o perfect_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o high_a heaven_n now_o mark_v what_o the_o effect_n of_o this_o hope_n be_v those_o that_o have_v receive_v this_o hope_n infuse_v from_o the_o spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o occasion_n the_o soul_n to_o purify_v themselves_o as_o jesus_n christ_n be_v pure_a that_o be_v all_o one_o as_o god_n the_o father_n be_v pure_a christ_n be_v but_o the_o express_a image_n of_o his_o father_n the_o apostle_n mean_v not_o that_o actual_o any_o soul_n have_v such_o a_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o spirit_n as_o produce_v that_o bless_a hope_n in_o he_o be_v actual_o purify_v according_a to_o purification_n of_o purity_n that_o be_v in_o christ_n but_o he_o mean_v that_o the_o soul_n into_o who_o this_o hope_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v infuse_v do_v desire_n breathe_v after_o long_o for_o endeavour_v with_o all_o the_o intention_n of_o his_o soul_n the_o same_o purity_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n satisfy_v his_o soul_n with_o no_o degree_n no_o measure_n less_o than_o the_o fullness_n of_o likeness_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o likewise_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o spirit_n reveal_v unto_o any_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v occasion_n the_o soul_n to_o declare_v that_o a_o conformity_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a satisfy_a object_n of_o the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n in_o regard_n the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n make_v the_o promise_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o motive_n unto_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o now_o if_o the_o very_o propound_v of_o the_o promise_n be_v that_o which_o excite_v a_o heart_n unto_o perfect_a holiness_n perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v then_o much_o more_o must_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n interest_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n necessary_o constrain_v a_o soul_n to_o pursue_v with_o all_o his_o strength_n after_o perfection_n of_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v and_o to_o declare_v that_o no_o less_o than_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v perfect_o aught_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n and_o likewise_o it_o may_v be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a prayer_n of_o the_o apostle_n that_o he_o always_o make_v for_o believe_a soul_n which_o be_v for_o their_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v 1_o thes_n 5.23_o now_o the_o very_a god_n of_o peaee_n sanctify_v you_o whole_o in_o spirit_n soul_n and_o body_n and_o he_o pray_v that_o they_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o fullness_n of_o god_n eph._n 4.19_o and_o as_o scripture_n thus_o testify_v that_o god_n be_v thus_o exalt_v in_o his_o holiness_n in_o any_o soul_n to_o who_o the_o spirit_n do_v reveal_v its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n by_o that_o soul_n declare_v that_o a_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v perfect_o ought_v only_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n so_o likewise_o the_o experience_n of_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n bear_v witness_n of_o the_o same_o i._o hence_o it_o be_v that_o those_o soul_n that_o enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v unsatisfy_v with_o their_o most_o holy_a duty_n and_o act_n of_o pure_a obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n so_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v always_o complain_v of_o imperfection_n and_o want_n in_o their_o most_o holy_a act_n and_o 1._o hence_o it_o be_v that_o we_o shall_v hear_v constant_o those_o precious_a soul_n complain_v with_o much_o bitterness_n of_o the_o narrowness_n and_o straitness_n of_o the_o work_n of_o their_o will_n in_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will._n 2._o you_o shall_v hear_v they_o always_o complain_v when_o assist_v most_o mighty_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n of_o their_o want_n of_o singleness_n of_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n in_o 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imperfection_n of_o their_o desire_n in_o prayer_n even_o when_o they_o be_v draw_v out_o by_o a_o mighty_a power_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n ii_o it_o be_v from_o hence_o also_o that_o soul_n enjoy_v the_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v perpetual_o groan_v after_o a_o full_a measure_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o jesus_n christ_n in_o what_o measure_n soever_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n be_v pour_v out_o upon_o they_o thus_o david_n often_o in_o the_o 119._o psalm_n beg_v for_o quicken_a which_o in_o a_o word_n be_v but_o this_o lord_n send_v down_o more_o of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n and_o holiness_n from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n yea_o this_o you_o may_v observe_v from_o the_o working_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o great_a apostle_n paul_n rom_n 7._o how_o his_o soul_n groan_v after_o a_o large_a portion_n of_o the_o sanctify_a
man_n can_v walk_v nor_o move_v neither_o can_v a_o dead_a soul_n without_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n either_o walk_n or_o move_v in_o the_o least_o measure_n so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v the_o least_o step_n set_v from_o one_o corruption_n while_o the_o soul_n remain_v without_o union_n i_o deny_v not_o but_o the_o lord_n may_v cause_v the_o branch_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o and_o the_o act_n of_o sin_n to_o be_v suspend_v through_o the_o terror_n and_o horror_n of_o the_o law_n and_o fear_v of_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n but_o the_o habit_n of_o sin_n remain_v the_o same_o still_o and_o the_o enmity_n work_v as_o strong_o in_o the_o bosom_n against_o jesus_n christ_n as_o before_o though_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v so_o much_o therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v a_o depart_n from_o sin_n till_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n much_o less_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v act_v any_o holiness_n or_o perform_v any_o spiritual_a duty_n whatsoever_o now_o in_o regard_n the_o lord_n require_v the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o moment_n that_o he_o receive_v the_o gospel_n to_o depart_v from_o all_o iniquity_n and_o require_v all_o spiritual_a duty_n in_o their_o perfection_n therefore_o the_o lord_n require_v the_o mean_n to_o be_v perform_v by_o the_o soul_n to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o the_o great_a command_n that_o be_v the_o receive_a jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n 4._o there_o be_v no_o degree_n tend_v to_o the_o perfection_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n nor_o nothing_o that_o can_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n tend_v in_o a_o orderly_a way_n to_o the_o procure_n of_o that_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n i_o deny_v not_o but_o the_o lord_n may_v according_a to_o his_o own_o pleasure_n use_v and_o employ_v many_o thing_n as_o antecedent_n go_v before_o this_o union_n but_o after_o the_o effect_n of_o all_o these_o thing_n in_o the_o heart_n that_o thou_o conceive_v tend_v in_o order_n to_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o soul_n be_v no_o near_a union_n than_o it_o be_v before_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n be_v effect_v in_o the_o heart_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a there_o be_v no_o medium_n between_o union_n and_o separation_n and_o disjunction_n the_o near_a point_n the_o soul_n can_v stand_v at_o be_v enmity_n now_o all_o that_o can_v be_v effect_v in_o the_o heart_n before_o complete_n union_n take_v not_o away_o the_o enmity_n the_o soul_n moralize_v or_o civilise_a humble_a and_o bring_v to_o prayer_n be_v still_o a_o enemy_n there_o be_v but_o terminus_fw-la à _fw-la quo_fw-la and_o ad_fw-la quem_fw-la the_o term_n from_o which_o and_z the_o term_n to_o which_o without_o any_o medium_n or_o middle_a state_n nay_o there_o be_v no_o degree_n of_o the_o union_n but_o a_o soul_n pass_v from_o a_o state_n of_o enmity_n to_o perfect_a union_n in_o one_o instant_a in_o one_o moment_n that_o soul_n that_o this_o moment_n be_v a_o enemy_n at_o a_o infinite_a distance_n from_o god_n the_o next_o moment_n the_o lord_n come_v in_o by_o a_o inevitable_a light_n into_o the_o understanding_n and_o irresistible_a power_n into_o the_o will_n be_v as_o complete_o unite_v to_o christ_n as_o any_o soul_n in_o heaven_n use_v iii_o the_o three_o use_n be_v by_o way_n of_o examination_n to_o see_v if_o the_o precious_a gospel_n truth_n have_v have_v their_o effect_n upon_o our_o heart_n and_o to_o this_o end_n search_n into_o your_o heart_n to_o see_v whether_o you_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n either_o you_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n or_o you_o be_v not_o unite_v either_o you_o be_v sink_v in_o the_o depth_n of_o sin_n or_o you_o be_v upon_o the_o rock_n christ_n and_o all_o depend_v upon_o the_o know_n of_o this_o consider_v these_o three_o of_o four_o thing_n i._o what_o a_o curse_a stupidity_n and_o blockishness_n it_o be_v not_o to_o know_v whether_o jesus_n christ_n be_v unite_v to_o thou_o or_o at_o a_o distance_n from_o thou_o will_v we_o not_o think_v that_o man_n a_o block_n that_o know_v not_o whether_o he_o be_v alive_a or_o dead_a ii_o consider_v how_o curse_o thou_o do_v despise_v the_o lord_n christ_n will_v thou_o ride_v a_o hundred_o mile_n to_o make_v sure_a of_o a_o earthly_a estate_n and_o shall_v the_o great_a treasure_n of_o heaven_n stand_v open_a to_o thou_o and_o either_o it_o be_v thou_o or_o it_o be_v not_o thou_o and_o thou_o know_v not_o iii_o consider_v how_o wretched_o thy_o soul_n destroy_v the_o virtue_n of_o all_o gospel_n ordinance_n by_o disregard_v this_o search_n while_o thy_o soul_n persevere_fw-la careless_o not_o regard_v nor_o examine_v whether_o jesus_n christ_n be_v one_o with_o thou_o impossible_a it_o be_v that_o any_o of_o the_o most_o powerful_a gospel_n ordinance_n shall_v ever_o convey_v the_o least_o benefit_n into_o thy_o soul_n and_o that_o in_o two_o respect_n 1._o in_o that_o thou_o make_v thyself_o a_o unsuitable_a subject_n for_o every_o gospel_n ordinance_n ordinance_n have_v but_o two_o end_n either_o to_o allure_v thy_o soul_n into_o union_n or_o else_o to_o seal_v that_o union_n and_o let_v thy_o soul_n enjoy_v that_o bless_a fruit_n thereof_o now_o whilst_o thou_o never_o mind_v whither_o christ_n be_v one_o with_o thou_o or_o no_o thou_o be_v unsuitable_a for_o every_o ordinance_n of_o that_o kind_n 2._o thou_o prevent_a the_o efficacy_n of_o every_o gospel_n ordinance_n upon_o thy_o soul_n what_o concernment_n be_v it_o of_o to_o thy_o soul_n when_o the_o most_o precious_a argument_n of_o love_n be_v set_v forth_o by_o the_o mouth_n of_o a_o messenger_n of_o god_n when_o thou_o mind_v it_o not_o first_o it_o prevent_v the_o efficacy_n of_o all_o gospel_n ordinance_n in_o regard_n there_o can_v be_v no_o sense_n of_o the_o want_n of_o union_n while_o thy_o soul_n neglect_v the_o search_n till_o the_o prodigal_a come_v to_o consider_v he_o be_v from_o his_o father_n house_n where_o there_o be_v bread_n enough_o he_o have_v no_o desire_n to_o return_v but_o be_v content_a to_o feed_v upon_o husk_n second_o there_o can_v be_v no_o sense_n of_o the_o lord_n choose_v thy_o soul_n into_o union_n though_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o want_n of_o union_n be_v of_o absolute_a necessity_n to_o every_o soul_n before_o gospel_n ordinance_n take_v effect_n yet_o this_o be_v not_o sufficient_a some_o think_v there_o must_v be_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o lord_n choose_v of_o the_o soul_n before_o the_o soul_n can_v close_v in_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o till_o than_o there_o can_v never_o be_v a_o consent_n of_o the_o will_n now_o how_o can_v there_o be_v a_o sense_n of_o the_o lord_n choose_v thou_o into_o union_n when_o thou_o mind_v not_o whether_o thou_o be_v already_o unite_v to_o christ_n or_o no_o iv_o consider_v how_o wrongful_o thou_o usurp_v the_o name_n of_o a_o christian_a to_o thyself_o when_o thou_o regard_v not_o whether_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o thy_o soul_n be_v make_v up_o the_o name_n of_o a_o christian_a at_o least_o presuppose_v a_o union_n of_o peace_n than_o it_o presuppose_v a_o time_n when_o it_o be_v make_v up_o and_o if_o such_o a_o union_n be_v not_o make_v up_o thou_o do_v wrongful_o usurp_v that_o holy_a name_n to_o thyself_o but_o here_o may_v be_v a_o question_n propound_v by_o the_o soul_n quest_n how_o shall_v i_o know_v whether_o i_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n or_o no_o or_o what_o be_v it_o that_o may_v evidence_n the_o soul_n union_n i_o shall_v first_o premise_v two_o or_o three_o thing_n and_o then_o give_v a_o answer_n to_o the_o question_n premise_v 1._o first_o i_o shall_v premise_v that_o the_o union_n between_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v invisible_a to_o the_o soul_n itself_o though_o the_o marriage_n knot_n may_v be_v knit_v yet_o the_o soul_n may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o discern_v it_o the_o rational_a soul_n be_v unite_v to_o the_o body_n of_o a_o poor_a infant_n in_o the_o womb_n while_o it_o be_v a_o poor_a embryo_n yet_o the_o rational_a soul_n know_v it_o not_o through_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o organ_n by_o which_o it_o shall_v work_v thus_o it_o may_v be_v with_o the_o soul_n it_o may_v be_v beget_v to_o the_o lord_n christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n and_o yet_o the_o soul_n be_v but_o a_o babe_n in_o christ_n through_o the_o imperfection_n of_o knowledge_n may_v not_o be_v able_a to_o discern_v himself_o unite_v to_o christ_n premise_v 2._o second_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o true_a and_o real_a union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n and_o yet_o the_o soul_n may_v discern_v many_o disorder_n and_o sad_a miscarriage_n in_o itself_o when_o the_o union_n be_v effect_v or_o produce_v in_o that_o soul_n the_o apostle_n themselves_o at_o their_o
into_o union_n when_o the_o soul_n can_v see_v nothing_o of_o those_o precious_a working_n of_o grace_n in_o his_o own_o heart_n so_o that_o the_o constancy_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n depend_v not_o upon_o the_o evidence_n that_o he_o can_v receive_v either_o from_o the_o inherent_a grace_n in_o he_o or_o the_o work_n of_o those_o grace_n but_o upon_o that_o which_o be_v constant_a in_o itself_o when_o the_o heart_n be_v unconstant_a three_o thence_o the_o soul_n walk_v contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n rule_n the_o rule_n be_v to_o walk_v by_o faith_n 2_o cor._n 5.7_o and_o to_o live_v by_o faith_n rather_o than_o by_o sight_n but_o when_o the_o soul_n adhere_v only_o to_o and_o seek_v after_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n from_o the_o work_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n the_o soul_n seek_v to_o live_v and_o walk_v only_o by_o sight_n and_o not_o by_o faith_n now_o there_o be_v a_o second_o question_n that_o will_v arise_v before_o i_o can_v pass_v to_o the_o affirmative_a answer_n quest_n 2._o if_o those_o inherent_a quality_n and_o habit_n of_o grace_n in_o soul_n and_o the_o working_n of_o they_o can_v thus_o evidence_n the_o soul_n union_n primary_o nor_o be_v no_o better_o ground_n of_o evidence_n than_o this_o then_o why_o do_v the_o scripture_n propound_v the_o soul_n obedience_n unto_o god_n and_o love_n unto_o god_n as_o sign_n and_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n answ_n for_o the_o answer_n of_o this_o question_n there_o be_v divers_a thing_n to_o be_v consider_v 1._o many_o of_o the_o scripture_n that_o the_o soul_n conceive_v to_o lay_v down_o such_o grace_n and_o working_n of_o grace_n as_o sign_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n be_v only_o lay_v down_o as_o manifest_a sign_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n unto_o other_o not_o themselves_o as_o mat._n 7.16_o 20._o by_o their_o fruit_n you_o shall_v know_v they_o the_o place_n if_o you_o observe_v it_o do_v not_o say_v by_o your_o own_o fruit_n you_o shall_v evidence_n your_o own_o condition_n but_o it_o propound_v the_o conversation_n of_o man_n to_o be_v the_o rule_n by_o which_o we_o shall_v judge_v of_o man_n by_o which_o we_o may_v conceive_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n or_o separation_n from_o christ_n yet_o this_o can_v yield_v a_o infallible_a evidence_n to_o we_o of_o their_o union_n 2._o all_o other_o place_n that_o speak_v of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n or_o of_o obedience_n to_o god_n to_o be_v as_o sign_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n do_v only_o lay_v they_o down_o as_o co-witnessing_a sign_n not_o as_o those_o from_o whence_o the_o soul_n can_v first_o clear_v his_o union_n thus_o far_o indeed_o the_o word_n manifest_v that_o there_o be_v such_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o believer_n and_o that_o believer_n do_v see_v such_o grace_n in_o their_o heart_n but_o it_o be_v then_o that_o believer_n do_v see_v they_o when_o they_o see_v their_o union_n with_o christ_n no_o believer_n ever_o have_v a_o true_a evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n but_o he_o also_o see_v some_o such_o precious_a holy_a disposition_n beget_v in_o his_o soul_n and_o some_o working_n of_o they_o also_o towards_o christ_n so_o that_o the_o scripture_n lay_v they_o down_o as_o co-witness_n so_o rom._n 8.16_o the_o spirit_n itself_o bear_v witness_v with_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o light_n of_o our_o renew_a understanding_n behold_v the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o ourselves_o do_v draw_v conclusion_n that_o we_o be_v unite_v unto_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v evidence_n and_o witness_v it_o from_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n free_a grace_n and_o favour_n in_o christ_n unto_o soul_n now_o thus_o be_v those_o place_n to_o be_v take_v in_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o john_n where_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n seem_v to_o speak_v most_o of_o such_o sign_n he_o speak_v of_o they_o there_o as_o follow_a sign_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n and_o so_o be_v demonstration_n à _fw-la posteriori_fw-la as_o we_o speak_v from_o the_o effect_n and_o witness_v the_o union_n as_o the_o effect_n witness_v the_o cause_n but_o the_o scripture_n no_o where_o command_v the_o soul_n to_o seek_v out_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n by_o those_o and_o from_o those_o though_o they_o be_v also_o able_a to_o afford_v some_o witness_n unto_o his_o union_n in_o way_n of_o confirmation_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o it_o when_o once_o the_o soul_n do_v behold_v his_o union_n then_o behold_v his_o grace_n they_o come_v in_o as_o another_o window_n into_o the_o soul_n to_o let_v in_o light_n faith_n and_o sense_n come_v in_o together_o and_o so_o make_v the_o soul_n consolation_n full_a and_o strong_a iii_o the_o scripture_n lay_v down_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o love_n to_o god_n as_o sign_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n purposely_o to_o convince_v deluder_n of_o themselves_o about_o their_o union_n it_o be_v to_o convince_v they_o of_o their_o contrary_n walk_v unto_o soul_n that_o be_v unite_v unto_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o though_o no_o degree_n of_o a_o soul_n obebedience_n unto_o god_n nor_o no_o degree_n of_o love_n in_o the_o heart_n unto_o god_n be_v able_a of_o itself_o and_o from_o itself_o to_o clear_v the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o god_n in_o christ_n when_o it_o be_v dark_a and_o to_o prove_v that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v yet_o some_o kind_n of_o disobedience_n and_o of_o contrary_n walk_v unto_o god_n may_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v no_o union_n between_o god_n and_o the_o soul_n and_o therefore_o the_o scripture_n when_o it_o have_v lay_v down_o any_o such_o sign_n always_o follow_v it_o with_o the_o contrary_a unto_o any_o such_o sign_n prove_v that_o those_o soul_n that_o walk_v direct_o contrary_a can_v be_v such_o as_o be_v unite_v to_o god_n in_o christ_n therefore_o you_o shall_v see_v no_o soon_o do_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n say_v hereby_o we_o shall_v know_v that_o we_o love_v god_n if_o we_o keep_v his_o commandment_n 1._o john_n 2.3_o but_o he_o say_v he_o that_o say_v he_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v not_o his_o commandment_n be_v a_o liar_n present_o he_o bring_v the_o point_n back_o for_o proof_n to_o convince_v soul_n of_o want_n of_o union_n by_o that_o which_o be_v a_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o the_o soul_n want_v of_o union_n yet_o there_o be_v two_o or_o three_o thing_n to_o be_v note_v about_o this_o 1._o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o lay_v down_o any_o defect_n of_o any_o degree_n of_o obedience_n or_o of_o love_n or_o of_o any_o degree_n of_o perfection_n of_o those_o sign_n lay_v down_o as_o be_v consequence_n of_o union_n as_o a_o argument_n of_o the_o soul_n want_v of_o union_n the_o scripture_n do_v not_o say_v that_o this_o degree_n or_o that_o degree_n of_o love_n and_o this_o and_o that_o manner_n of_o obedience_n do_v follow_v the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n 2._o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o lay_v down_o that_o a_o irregularity_n or_o any_o disorder_n in_o the_o soul_n obedience_n unto_o god_n or_o in_o the_o soul_n love_v unto_o god_n and_o the_o like_a do_v manifest_a the_o soul_n want_v of_o union_n neither_o do_v he_o require_v any_o perfection_n in_o those_o sign_n lay_v down_o as_o consequent_a sign_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n to_o make_v the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n evident_a by_o they_o 3._o the_o scripture_n do_v not_o say_v that_o the_o cessation_n of_o those_o holy_a operation_n of_o those_o holy_a quality_n in_o the_o soul_n nor_o the_o cessation_n of_o the_o act_n of_o love_n unto_o god_n do_v manifest_a that_o a_o soul_n be_v not_o unite_v unto_o christ_n for_o there_o may_v be_v a_o cessation_n of_o those_o act_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o a_o season_n that_o be_v the_o inseparable_a consequence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n but_o there_o can_v be_v a_o total_a want_n or_o contrariety_n in_o the_o heart_n to_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v the_o proper_a effect_n of_o union_n so_o that_o he_o do_v place_n the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n disjunction_n in_o a_o contrariety_n to_o these_o as_o when_o he_o say_v by_o this_o we_o know_v we_o be_v pass_v from_o death_n to_o life_n because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n but_o he_o that_o hate_v his_o brother_n abide_v in_o death_n he_o that_o hate_v his_o brother_n must_v needs_o hate_v god_n so_o in_o 1_o john_n 4_o 5._o when_o he_o lay_v down_o obedience_n to_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n then_o present_o he_o say_v he_o that_o say_v he_o know_v he_o and_o keep_v not_o his_o commandment_n be_v a_o lyar._n there_o be_v a_o three_o question_n to_o be_v
no_o more_o sutableness_n hold_v forth_o in_o this_o promise_n for_o a_o invitation_n for_o poor_a burden_a soul_n to_o believe_v in_o christ_n than_o there_o be_v in_o other_o promise_v hold_v forth_o in_o scripture_n to_o soul_n for_o present_v not_o groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n there_o lie_v as_o great_a a_o invitation_n upon_o every_o soul_n under_o heaven_n as_o the_o burden_a there_o lie_v a_o command_n upon_o every_o soul_n the_o invitation_n run_v as_o equal_o to_o the_o dead_a in_o sin_n under_o the_o great_a captivity_n to_o satan_n as_o to_o soul_n groan_v under_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n second_o the_o second_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v hold_v forth_o in_o the_o promise_n be_v rest_n and_o refreshment_n now_o you_o see_v that_o the_o rest_n be_v hold_v forth_o to_o they_o to_o be_v receive_v for_o the_o future_a only_o through_o believe_v and_o so_o it_o be_v hold_v forth_o to_o every_o soul_n under_o heaven_n therefore_o this_o promise_n can_v be_v make_v to_o burden_a soul_n under_o sin_n as_o they_o be_v so_o burden_v or_o as_o they_o be_v qualify_v with_o any_o such_o quality_n of_o grace_n you_o will_v say_v then_o what_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o promise_n the_o meaning_n be_v this_o god_n discover_v to_o poor_a necessitous_a soul_n where_o they_o shall_v have_v refreshment_n the_o voice_n of_o god_n from_o heaven_n be_v thou_o poor_a necessitous_a soul_n will_v have_v refreshment_n and_o thou_o poor_a burden_a soul_n will_v have_v ease_n come_v to_o i_o cast_v thy_o burden_n upon_o i_o by_o faith_n and_o take_v my_o word_n say_v jesus_n christ_n thou_o shall_v have_v rest_n iii_o if_o you_o look_v into_o promise_n make_v to_o mourn_a soul_n as_o in_o mat._n 5.5_o bless_a be_v they_o that_o mourn_v for_o they_o shall_v be_v comfort_v so_o isa_n 61.1_o 2._o speak_v of_o christ_n he_o shall_v come_v to_o comfort_v those_o that_o mourn_v in_o zion_n but_o now_o those_o promise_n be_v not_o make_v to_o mourner_n as_o have_v the_o quality_n of_o sorrow_n in_o their_o heart_n as_o be_v afflict_v for_o their_o sin_n and_o grieve_v for_o they_o no_o not_o as_o grieve_v for_o the_o dishonour_n do_v to_o god_n by_o their_o sin_n as_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v have_v respect_n to_o that_o in_o the_o promise_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o if_o the_o promise_n be_v to_o sorrow_n as_o a_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o good_a quality_n now_o be_v the_o promise_n make_v to_o the_o soul_n as_o a_o good_a quality_n it_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o have_v the_o good_a quality_n increase_v and_o continue_v in_o his_o soul_n whereas_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o the_o mourn_a soul_n be_v to_o remove_v the_o quality_n by_o comfort_n comfort_n and_o mourning_n be_v two_o contrary_n so_o that_o if_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o soul_n have_v a_o good_a quality_n in_o they_o it_o be_v rather_o a_o misery_n to_o have_v the_o promise_n than_o a_o happiness_n 2._o if_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o sorrow_n as_o inherent_a than_o the_o soul_n may_v claim_v comfort_n by_o his_o mourning_n or_o because_o of_o his_o mourning_n and_o so_o the_o original_n of_o the_o soul_n comfort_n shall_v be_v in_o the_o quality_n inherent_a in_o the_o soul_n 4._o if_o you_o go_v on_o to_o poverty_n of_o spirit_n bless_v be_v they_o that_o be_v poor_a in_o spirit_n for_o they_o be_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n the_o promise_n here_o be_v not_o make_v to_o a_o soul_n poor_a in_o spirit_n as_o have_v that_o quality_n in_o he_o for_o than_o be_v the_o promise_n of_o give_v the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n to_o be_v hold_v forth_o to_o no_o soul_n but_o to_o those_o that_o be_v thus_o poor_a and_o empty_a and_o so_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n shall_v be_v hold_v forth_o particular_o as_o the_o lord_n not_o be_v willing_a to_o give_v it_o to_o any_o soul_n but_o to_o such_o as_o be_v thus_o poor_a in_o spirit_n that_o have_v a_o true_a sense_n of_o their_o own_o nothingness_n and_o so_o the_o first_o promise_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v by_o a_o soul_n as_o have_v true_a holiness_n and_o grace_n in_o his_o soul_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o promise_n by_o faith_n shall_v not_o be_v the_o first_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o soul_n but_o the_o sight_n of_o grace_n shall_v be_v necessary_a in_o the_o soul_n to_o make_v he_o receive_v a_o promise_n there_o be_v a_o four_o question_n to_o be_v answer_v before_o we_o can_v pass_v to_o the_o affirmative_a answer_n quest_n 4._o be_v not_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o faith_n and_o believe_v as_o believe_v that_o through_o faith_n a_o man_n can_v only_o claim_v right_a to_o the_o promise_n say_v the_o soul_n sure_o faith_n be_v a_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n and_o if_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o faith_n they_o be_v make_v to_o quality_n as_o quality_n answ_n 1._o first_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o many_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o soul_n actual_o void_a of_o faith_n though_o i_o dare_v not_o say_v without_o respect_n unto_o believe_v for_o the_o future_a yet_o i_o say_v without_o any_o present_a believe_v the_o most_o primary_n principal_a fundamental_a promise_n be_v make_v to_o soul_n void_a of_o faith_n actual_o they_o be_v make_v only_o to_o sinner_n and_o that_o in_o their_o very_a estate_n of_o sinfulness_n though_o not_o proper_o as_o they_o be_v sinner_n that_o be_v not_o because_o they_o be_v sinner_n as_o if_o sinner_n be_v the_o qualification_n of_o the_o promise_n but_o heinous_a sinner_n in_o that_o doleful_a condition_n the_o lord_n make_v the_o promise_n to_o as_o in_o 1_o tim._n 1.15_o that_o precious_a promise_n this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n of_o who_o i_o be_o chief_a he_o look_v upon_o himself_o only_o as_o a_o sinner_n in_o the_o application_n of_o that_o promise_n that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v to_o save_v he_o thus_o the_o promise_n of_o reconciliation_n be_v make_v to_o such_o actual_o without_o faith_n call_v they_o as_o they_o be_v enemy_n to_o close_o with_o jesus_n christ_n as_o a_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o they_o to_o make_v up_o reconciliation_n thus_o also_o that_o of_o luk._n 19.20_o that_o christ_n come_v to_o seek_v and_o to_o save_v that_o which_o be_v lose_v another_o precious_a promise_n yet_o make_v to_o soul_n only_o lose_v without_o respect_n to_o any_o present_a be_v of_o faith_n in_o their_o heart_n answ_n 2._o second_o i_o answer_v that_o some_o promise_n be_v make_v for_o the_o beget_n of_o faith_n in_o soul_n and_o therefore_o not_o make_v to_o faith_n as_o be_v a_o quality_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o which_o those_o promise_n shall_v be_v make_v as_o that_o promise_n ezek._n 36.26_o a_o new_a heart_n will_v i_o give_v you_o and_o a_o new_a spirit_n will_v i_o put_v within_o you_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v for_o the_o beget_n of_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o soul_n whereby_o the_o heart_n shall_v be_v change_v whereby_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o redemption_n shall_v be_v wrought_v in_o the_o soul_n answ_n 3._o three_o i_o answer_v that_o no_o one_o promise_n in_o the_o whole_a covenant_n of_o grace_n be_v make_v unto_o faith_n as_o a_o quality_n pre-existent_a in_o a_o soul_n that_o be_v as_o a_o quality_n to_o be_v remain_v in_o a_o soul_n before_o he_o claim_v right_a to_o the_o promise_n so_o that_o no_o promise_n be_v make_v unto_o a_o believer_n because_o he_o do_v believe_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o the_o soul_n believe_v nor_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n particular_a interest_n in_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o the_o soul_n believe_v though_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o that_o his_o interest_n be_v his_o believe_v for_o if_o faith_n shall_v be_v in_o a_o soul_n as_o a_o quality_n to_o receive_v the_o promise_n than_o these_o three_o thing_n will_v follow_v 1._o no_o promise_n can_v be_v fulfil_v in_o and_o to_o a_o soul_n before_o it_o actual_o believe_v and_o then_o either_o faith_n itself_o must_v not_o be_v a_o gift_n from_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n or_o else_o the_o great_a fundamental_a gift_n shall_v be_v convey_v unto_o the_o soul_n not_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n nor_o by_o virtue_n of_o a_o promise_n 2._o then_o no_o soul_n may_v receive_v a_o promise_n nor_o believe_v a_o promise_n before_o he_o see_v his_o own_o faith_n that_o be_v a_o soul_n till_o he_o can_v say_v the_o lord_n have_v infuse_v the_o habit_n of_o faith_n into_o my_o soul_n he_o may_v not_o receive_v any_o promise_n the_o
of_o faith_n build_v upon_o the_o certainty_n of_o the_o lord_n word_n pre._n 2._o we_o must_v know_v that_o the_o scripture_n do_v make_v a_o distinction_n between_o assurance_n of_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n as_o in_o 1_o john_n 4.16_o say_v he_o we_o know_v and_o believe_v the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o father_n to_o we_o he_o make_v a_o twofold_a assurance_n a_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o a_o assurance_n of_o faith_n now_o indeed_o both_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n may_v in_o a_o large_a sense_n be_v call_v the_o assurance_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n they_o have_v both_o the_o property_n of_o knowledge_n knowledge_n be_v the_o gather_n of_o a_o necessary_a truth_n from_o some_o unchangeable_a ground_n now_o in_o both_o these_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o faith_n the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n arise_v as_o a_o necessary_a truth_n from_o a_o unchangeable_a ground_n the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o unchangeable_a ground_n from_o which_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n gather_v the_o conclusion_n to_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o behold_v the_o peculiar_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o a_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v that_o unchangeable_a ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n gather_v the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n pre._n 3._o three_o that_o both_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n associate_n or_o companion_n in_o the_o same_o soul_n at_o one_o time_n they_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n cotemporary_a that_o be_v accompany_v one_o another_o that_o when_o one_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o other_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o when_o a_o soul_n have_v assurance_n of_o faith_n he_o have_v also_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n and_o that_o for_o a_o threefold_a reason_n 1._o in_o regard_v those_o grace_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o a_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v witness_v or_o declare_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o be_v give_v to_o the_o soul_n whenever_o the_o lord_n reveal_v from_o his_o own_o word_n unto_o a_o soul_n his_o willingness_n to_o take_v his_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o lord_n do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n witness_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o willingness_n to_o confer_v and_o bestow_v upon_o he_o all_o the_o grace_n his_o soul_n want_v all_o the_o holiness_n the_o hungry_a or_o empty_a soul_n be_v breathe_v after_o he_o do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n assure_v the_o soul_n he_o shall_v have_v love_n and_o delight_n in_o god_n he_o shall_v have_v poverty_n of_o spirit_n and_o strength_n over_o corruption_n 2._o through_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n those_o grace_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v beget_v immediate_o now_o in_o regard_n these_o be_v thus_o necessary_o beget_v thence_o it_o be_v the_o sight_n of_o they_o come_v to_o be_v apparent_a in_o the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n that_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o ground_n for_o assurance_n of_o faith_n be_v apparent_a in_o the_o soul_n 3._o the_o lively_a working_n and_o motion_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n be_v excite_v and_o stir_v up_o in_o every_o soul_n by_o or_o through_o the_o lord_n reveal_v unto_o the_o soul_n a_o ground_n for_o assurance_n of_o his_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v then_o the_o soul_n mourn_v for_o sin_n more_o sweet_o and_o melt_v more_o precious_o in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n than_o ever_o before_o though_o it_o may_v be_v there_o have_v be_v some_o heart-breaking_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o wretchedness_n former_o it_o be_v then_o the_o soul_n be_v true_o poor_a in_o himself_o and_o loathe_v and_o abhor_v himself_o more_o than_o ever_o before_o pre._n 4._o four_o though_o they_o be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n for_o the_o most_o part_n in_o soul_n yet_o the_o assurance_n of_o of_o faith_n be_v the_o first_o according_a to_o order_n of_o nature_n in_o the_o soul_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v infallible_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n draw_v from_o his_o own_o grace_n when_o there_o be_v not_o some_o unchangeable_a ground_n manifest_v from_o god_n unto_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n so_o that_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o right_n orderly_a way_n never_o flow_v from_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n but_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n flow_v from_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o that_o arise_v upon_o these_o two_o ground_n 1._o in_o regard_v it_o must_v be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o faith_n unto_o the_o soul_n by_o god_n that_o do_v procure_v a_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o appear_v thus_o the_o grace_n or_o love_n or_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n then_o the_o lord_n do_v draw_v the_o the_o soul_n to_o assurance_n of_o faith_n when_o he_o do_v reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o own_o particular_a grace_n and_o favour_n to_o take_v it_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n out_o of_o the_o mere_a disposition_n of_o his_o own_o will_v alone_o for_o no_o other_o respect_n whatever_o but_o for_o his_o own_o sake_n now_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n reveal_v or_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o now_o those_o be_v beget_v in_o the_o soul_n not_o by_o grace_n but_o by_o the_o manifestation_n of_o grace_n in_o particular_a unto_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v through_o grace_n reveal_v that_o grace_n have_v its_o right_a proper_a effect_n in_o a_o soul_n and_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n it_o have_v the_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o effect_n according_a to_o that_o in_o 1_o john_n 3.2_o we_o know_v that_o when_o he_o shall_v appear_v we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o as_o he_o be_v that_o be_v when_o we_o behold_v he_o through_o that_o sight_n we_o shall_v be_v transform_v into_o the_o image_n of_o god_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o you_o may_v consult_v with_o divers_a place_n as_o john_n 15.16_o say_v christ_n you_o have_v not_o choose_v i_o but_o i_o have_v choose_v you_o he_o do_v not_o mean_a that_o they_o have_v not_o choose_v jesus_n christ_n now_o at_o present_a as_o their_o portion_n but_o they_o do_v not_o choose_v christ_n first_o but_o the_o manifestation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n choose_v their_o soul_n first_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n choose_v jesus_n christ_n and_o according_a to_o the_o light_a reveal_n to_o a_o soul_n jesus_n christ_n choice_n of_o he_o so_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o strength_n wherewith_o the_o will_n close_v with_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o choice_n again_o now_o the_o choice_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o first_o act_n of_o any_o habit_n of_o grace_n that_o ever_o any_o soul_n bring_v forth_o there_o be_v no_o gracious_a act_n true_o gracious_o act_v by_o any_o soul_n till_o the_o will_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v draw_v in_o upon_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n choose_v he_o to_o union_n with_o himself_o upon_o which_o the_o will_v also_o choose_v jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n with_o he_o and_o again_o you_o may_v consult_v with_o that_o know_a place_n in_o 1_o john_n 4.19_o say_v he_o we_o love_v he_o because_o he_o first_o love_v we_o not_o that_o from_o the_o essence_n of_o god_n love_v their_o love_n do_v proceed_v though_o that_o be_v true_a but_o from_o the_o manifestation_n of_o god_n love_n now_o as_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o gala._n 5_o 6._o faith_n work_v by_o love_n the_o very_a first_o operation_n of_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n towards_o christ_n be_v by_o love_n the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n it_o reach_v out_o a_o hand_n of_o faith_n to_o grasp_v hold_n of_o christ_n it_o reach_v out_o also_o a_o hand_n of_o love_n unto_o christ_n now_o then_o observe_v the_o grace_n and_o working_n of_o grace_n be_v the_o only_a ground_n for_o a_o soul_n to_o gather_v assurance_n of_o knowledge_n from_o and_o those_o grace_n not_o be_v beget_v in_o a_o soul_n but_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n manifestation_n unto_o soul_n a_o ground_n of_o assurance_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o assurance_n of_o faith_n must_v needs_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n go_v before_o the_o assurance_n of_o knowledge_n 2._o the_o effect_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v always_o the_o ground_n of_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o knowledge_n remain_v dark_a and_o hide_a and_o obscure_a to_o the_o
discern_a to_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n that_o do_v not_o come_v from_o jesus_n christ_n or_o else_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o light_n remain_v in_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o relic_n of_o nature_n which_o may_v let_v the_o soul_n see_v his_o absolute_a indispensable_a necessity_n of_o christ_n or_o else_o he_o be_v undo_v for_o ever_o now_o observe_v what_o a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n this_o be_v it_o take_v away_o the_o peculiar_a office_n of_o jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v to_o open_v the_o blind_a eye_n and_o give_v they_o sight_n isa_n 42.7_o rev._n 3.18_o 2._o thou_o must_v conceive_v that_o the_o soul_n shall_v have_v receive_v jesus_n christ_n before_o he_o be_v tender_v to_o he_o now_o no_o man_n dare_v own_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o spiritual_a light_n in_o the_o soul_n before_o the_o lord_n christ_n heal_v his_o blindness_n and_o no_o man_n can_v conceive_v there_o shall_v be_v the_o discern_a of_o a_o spiritual_a object_n without_o a_o spiritual_a light_n the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n neither_o can_v he_o know_v they_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o and_o for_o the_o second_o that_o a_o man_n shall_v receive_v jesus_n christ_n before_o he_o be_v tender_v to_o he_o this_o every_o man_n abhor_v as_o a_o great_a absurdity_n so_o that_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o this_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n one_o of_o the_o mote_n the_o devil_n will_v keep_v in_o the_o soul_n eye_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v there_o be_v two_o truth_n about_o this_o thing_n that_o the_o devil_n miss_v in_o propound_v it_o as_o a_o glass_n to_o the_o soul_n 1._o that_o there_o be_v no_o soul_n that_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n but_o have_v a_o true_a sight_n and_o in_o some_o measure_n a_o true_a sense_n of_o his_o want_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o indispensable_a necessity_n of_o he_o though_o no_o true_a spiritual_a discern_a can_v go_v before_o the_o tender_a of_o jesus_n christ_n yet_o thus_o far_o it_o be_v true_a that_o at_o the_o same_o instant_n the_o lord_n allure_v the_o heart_n to_o accept_v of_o jesus_n christ_n into_o union_n he_o do_v beget_v a_o true_a spiritual_a sight_n of_o his_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o christ_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o second_o truth_n that_o be_v narrow_o miss_v here_o and_o that_o be_v that_o this_o spiritual_a sight_n of_o the_o soul_n absolute_a indispensable_a want_n of_o christ_n be_v communicate_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n work_v through_o the_o offer_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n though_o some_o conceive_v there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o may_v be_v call_v preparation_n not_o beget_v by_o the_o gospel_n but_o as_o they_o distinguish_v by_o the_o law_n separate_v from_o the_o gospel_n yet_o they_o all_o grant_v that_o no_o true_a grace_n either_o of_o light_n sight_n or_o sense_n be_v convey_v any_o way_n but_o through_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v instrumental_o a_o effect_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n now_o that_o which_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n must_v be_v a_o effect_n of_o the_o tender_a of_o christ_n to_o the_o soul_n for_o that_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o tender_a jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o poor_a despicable_a loveless_a soul_n now_o that_o this_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n i_o shall_v prove_v from_o scripture_n all_o those_o promise_n of_o scripture_n that_o offer_n christ_n free_o must_v be_v expunge_v if_o this_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o light_n as_o isa_n 55.1_o rev._n 22.17_o john_n 6.37_o where_o the_o invitation_n be_v free_a whoever_o will_v let_v he_o come_v if_o he_o have_v but_o a_o will_n let_v he_o be_v what_o he_o will_n a_o second_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v that_o there_o must_v be_v a_o sight_n of_o the_o act_n of_o the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n before_o the_o soul_n can_v believe_v any_o good_a will_n of_o god_n intend_v to_o the_o soul_n in_o christ_n that_o be_v thus_o say_v the_o soul_n sure_o there_o must_v be_v a_o fight_n of_o some_o holy_a disposition_n there_o must_v be_v a_o behold_v of_o some_o readiness_n to_o depart_v from_o sin_n and_o some_o cast_n off_o the_o principle_n of_o corruption_n there_o must_v be_v a_o heart_n seek_v after_o god_n and_o pray_v and_o supplicate_v god_n before_o the_o soul_n may_v conceive_v the_o lord_n intend_v any_o good_a will_n to_o it_o in_o christ_n now_o the_o darkness_n that_o be_v in_o this_o principle_n will_v appear_v in_o open_v four_o consequence_n flow_v from_o it_o 1._o if_o any_o such_o holy_a disposition_n or_o inclination_n be_v to_o be_v discern_v in_o a_o soul_n before_o he_o be_v to_o believe_v the_o lord_n intend_v good_a will_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n than_o some_o particular_a effect_n of_o savour_n or_o some_o act_n of_o the_o lord_n good_a will_n shall_v be_v receive_v by_o a_o soul_n beside_o the_o lord_n promise_v and_o so_o shall_v not_o be_v convey_v through_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o promise_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o lord_n shall_v convey_v grace_n into_o soul_n out_o of_o and_o beyond_o the_o bound_n of_o his_o own_o covenant_n of_o grace_n 2._o if_o any_o of_o these_o act_n of_o grace_n be_v to_o be_v see_v in_o the_o soul_n before_o it_o believe_v the_o lord_n good_a will_n than_o shall_v special_a grace_n be_v convey_v to_o the_o soul_n before_o engraft_v into_o christ_n so_o that_o life_n shall_v come_v down_o from_o jesus_n christ_n into_o the_o soul_n and_o it_o shall_v partake_v of_o the_o influence_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o of_o the_o grace_n of_o christ_n before_o he_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n himself_n and_o upon_o this_o ground_n the_o soul_n shall_v bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n before_o it_o be_v engraft_v into_o jesus_n christ_n and_o become_v a_o good_a stock_n or_o good_a tree_n and_o so_o express_o contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n a_o evil_a tree_n shall_v bring_v forth_o good_a fruit_n a_o soul_n in_o enmity_n to_o god_n shall_v bring_v forth_o holy_a disposition_n 3._o if_o the_o soul_n shall_v behold_v the_o act_n of_o the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n towards_o his_o soul_n before_o he_o believe_v the_o lord_n intend_v good_a will_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n then_o must_v the_o soul_n conceive_v that_o he_o may_v see_v his_o own_o soul_n belove_v actual_o of_o god_n even_o for_o the_o present_a before_o the_o receive_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n to_o make_v atonement_n or_o reconciliation_n to_o god_n for_o he_o the_o soul_n must_v then_o conceive_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v act_n of_o friendship_n from_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n before_o the_o lord_n christ_n shall_v step_v in_o to_o make_v up_o the_o union_n of_o peace_n and_o agreement_n before_o there_o shall_v be_v reconciliation_n 4_o if_o the_o soul_n shall_v of_o necessity_n see_v the_o act_n of_o grace_n in_o his_o soul_n before_o he_o see_v the_o lord_n intend_v good_a will_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n than_o a_o divine_a word_n shall_v not_o be_v the_o primary_n or_o principal_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n faith_n but_o rather_o the_o grace_n or_o the_o act_n of_o god_n good_a will_n discern_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o consequent_o all_o the_o foundation_n of_o such_o a_o believe_a soul_n shall_v be_v mere_o in_o the_o soul_n itself_o now_o nothing_o be_v more_o direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o whole_a tenor_n of_o scripture_n hold_v forth_o the_o ground_n of_o faith_n than_o this_o abraham_n who_o be_v set_v forth_o as_o a_o pattern_n of_o believer_n his_o faith_n be_v only_o build_v upon_o the_o word_n of_o god_n give_v authority_n to_o it_o from_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o speaker_n rom._n 4.20_o 21._o a_o three_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v this_o that_o it_o be_v presumption_n for_o the_o soul_n to_o believe_v or_o to_o receive_v the_o promise_n of_o jesus_n christ_n darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n so_o long_o as_o the_o soul_n see_v nothing_o but_o rebellion_n and_o disobedience_n and_o enmity_n in_o his_o heart_n against_o god_n this_o be_v another_o hellbred_a principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o smell_v much_o of_o the_o smoke_n that_o come_v out_o of_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n to_o darken_v the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o that_o this_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n will_v appear_v by_o some_o few_o consideration_n 1._o in_o regard_n there_o can_v be_v no_o rebellion_n nor_o no_o enmity_n heal_v but_o by_o virtue_n receive_v from_o jesus_n christ_n sin_n receive_v its_o deadly_a wound_n only_o upon_o the_o cross_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o it_o be_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o application_n of_o the_o
of_o thy_o judgement_n declare_v the_o excellency_n of_o jesus_n christ_n tender_v that_o thy_o affection_n do_v work_v so_o powerful_o 2._o it_o will_v be_v consider_v whether_o the_o lord_n may_v not_o and_o do_v not_o more_o frequent_o stir_v up_o high_a affection_n in_o soul_n in_o the_o first_o hold_v forth_o of_o the_o gospel_n to_o they_o than_o he_o always_o intend_v afterward_o to_o they_o do_v you_o think_v that_o the_o prodigal_n luke_o 15.44_o have_v always_o those_o expression_n of_o his_o father_n delight_n in_o his_o return_n that_o he_o have_v when_o he_o first_o return_v then_o there_o must_v be_v the_o best_a robe_n put_v upon_o he_o and_o a_o feast_n and_o music_n but_o it_o be_v a_o question_n whether_o his_o father_n put_v he_o on_o such_o apparel_n every_o day_n and_o make_v he_o a_o feast_n every_o day_n so_o the_o lord_n may_v and_o i_o believe_v do_v at_o the_o first_o reveal_n of_o his_o truth_n give_v more_o affection_n than_o he_o intend_v to_o continue_v and_o more_o stir_n of_o grace_n infuse_v than_o he_o intend_v afterward_o constant_o to_o continue_v yet_o though_o there_o remain_v not_o the_o same_o activity_n vivacity_n liveliness_n of_o affection_n yet_o there_o may_v be_v the_o same_o affection_n remain_v nay_o it_o may_v be_v the_o affection_n may_v be_v grow_v in_o its_o fixedness_n and_o steadiness_n and_o in_o its_o orderly_a way_n of_o work_v towards_o jesus_n christ_n though_o it_o appear_v not_o work_v so_o powerful_o and_o mighty_o as_o it_o do_v before_o you_o see_v plain_o the_o conclusion_n be_v rash_o draw_v though_o from_o a_o true_a principle_n consider_v in_o some_o sense_n a_o three_o distemper_n be_v fearfulness_n the_o timorous_a disposition_n of_o the_o soul_n distemper_n dark_a distemper_n now_o you_o must_v right_o understand_v this_o distemper_n for_o though_o the_o devil_n cast_v in_o the_o distemper_n of_o fearfulness_n into_o some_o soul_n to_o keep_v they_o from_o union_n with_o christ_n yet_o he_o cast_v in_o the_o distemper_n of_o presumption_n into_o more_o soul_n to_o prevent_v they_o from_o see_v the_o face_n of_o god_n in_o the_o glass_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o so_o lead_v their_o soul_n into_o the_o pit_n of_o darkness_n we_o shall_v clear_v it_o in_o two_o or_o three_o conclusion_n 1._o there_o can_v be_v too_o much_o holy_a fear_n possess_v any_o heart_n that_o be_v there_o can_v be_v too_o much_o awful_a reverence_n of_o the_o holy_a majesty_n of_o god_n nor_o too_o much_o awful_a respect_n of_o god_n as_o he_o present_v himself_o clothe_v with_o the_o precious_a robe_n of_o mercy_n &_o love_a kindness_n &_o goodness_n this_o fear_n god_n require_v ps_n 130.4_o there_o be_v forgiveness_n with_o thou_o that_o thou_o may_v be_v fear_v 2._o there_o be_v a_o fear_n which_o be_v a_o terror_n and_o dread_n and_o horror_n of_o the_o avenge_a justice_n of_o the_o almighty_a god_n there_o be_v a_o fear_n of_o displease_v this_o god_n appear_v in_o this_o manner_n lest_o his_o anger_n shall_v be_v so_o kindle_v that_o flame_n of_o indignation_n shall_v proceed_v from_o he_o to_o the_o consume_n of_o soul_n and_o body_n for_o ever_o and_o it_o be_v this_o fear_n that_o be_v too_o much_o in_o the_o soul_n of_o god_n dear_a one_o this_o kind_n of_o fear_n be_v but_o a_o judas_n his_o fear_n and_o a_o cain_n fear_n and_o a_o saul_n fear_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o natural_a affection_n of_o fear_n that_o possess_v the_o heart_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n as_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o be_v this_o a_o perturbation_n or_o a_o trouble_v or_o perplex_v or_o cause_v the_o heart_n to_o suffer_v through_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o blood_n and_o animal_n spirit_n to_o and_o fro_o upon_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v some_o evil_n that_o he_o be_v in_o danger_n to_o suffer_v this_o kind_n of_o fear_n be_v not_o a_o evil_a fear_n absolute_o consider_v but_o this_o fear_n become_v a_o sinful_a distemper_n through_o the_o inordinateness_n of_o it_o as_o 1._o when_o it_o exceed_v the_o bound_n of_o reason_n that_o be_v when_o the_o heart_n be_v perplex_v with_o some_o evil_n he_o shall_v suffer_v and_o can_v give_v no_o ground_n of_o this_o fear_n the_o soul_n be_v afraid_a of_o the_o loss_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n tender_v in_o christ_n and_o can_v render_v no_o good_a account_n according_a to_o reason_n why_o his_o soul_n be_v thus_o afraid_a 2._o when_o it_o exceed_v the_o bound_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v when_o it_o exceed_v the_o bound_n god_n have_v appoint_v in_o his_o word_n when_o it_o prove_v a_o distract_n fear_n and_o unfit_v the_o soul_n for_o the_o duty_n god_n require_v at_o his_o hand_n and_o this_o distemper_n arise_v from_o three_o principle_n and_o according_o produce_v three_o effect_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v prevent_v from_o discern_v the_o light_a the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o 1._o common_o it_o arise_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o guiltiness_n the_o sense_n of_o a_o soul_n to_o be_v a_o guilty_a person_n natural_o stir_v up_o fear_n of_o punishment_n according_a to_o the_o disposition_n of_o man_n as_o man_n and_o work_v with_o natural_a conscience_n it_o stir_v up_o fear_n of_o divine_a vengeance_n hereafter_o and_o so_o by_o this_o mean_v that_o sinful_a fear_n prevail_v and_o cloud_n the_o soul_n 2._o it_o arise_v from_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n of_o the_o height_n of_o the_o consequence_n of_o the_o soul_n right_a establishment_n fear_n be_v beget_v by_o look_v upon_o the_o danger_n it_o be_v like_o a_o man_n stand_v upon_o a_o high_a tower_n and_o look_v upon_o the_o downfall_n though_o he_o stand_v firm_a it_o pale_v the_o man_n and_o make_v he_o afraid_a so_o they_o stand_v upon_o the_o tower_n of_o eternity_n come_v to_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o great_a danger_n and_o thence_o arise_v this_o fear_n of_o heart_n 3._o this_o fear_n arise_v from_o the_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n wherein_o the_o soul_n remain_v i_o mean_v his_o ignorance_n of_o the_o way_n of_o the_o right_a establishment_n of_o the_o soul_n his_o ignorance_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o large_a extent_n of_o those_o promise_n that_o god_n vouchsafe_v to_o his_o soul_n like_o a_o blind_a man_n that_o be_v in_o continual_a fear_n lest_o he_o meet_v with_o danger_n and_o stumble_v and_o fall_v walk_v in_o darkness_n strike_v a_o fear_n natural_o in_o any_o person_n much_o more_o do_v this_o spiritual_a darkness_n produce_v fear_n in_o the_o soul_n now_o this_o darkness_n thus_o rise_v have_v three_o effect_n to_o prevent_v the_o soul_n from_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o 1._o it_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o create_v strange_a unheard_a of_o danger_n to_o himself_o through_o the_o strength_n of_o imagination_n work_v by_o fear_n the_o very_a strength_n of_o fancy_n when_o this_o distemper_n of_o fear_n prevail_v cause_v the_o soul_n to_o make_v new_a danger_n to_o itself_o every_o moment_n and_o to_o fear_v where_o no_o fear_n be_v and_o thence_o he_o multiply_v one_o objection_n upon_o another_o and_o the_o answer_v of_o one_o objection_n be_v but_o the_o bring_n in_o of_o another_o objection_n 2._o this_o distemper_n of_o fearfulness_n do_v prevent_v the_o soul_n right_a use_n of_o the_o appoint_a mean_n for_o the_o prevention_n of_o real_a danger_n discover_v the_o soul_n think_v to_o escape_v presumption_n by_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n lest_o it_o have_v no_o right_n to_o he_o prevent_v itself_o of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o right_a mean_n to_o come_v to_o christ_n it_o make_v the_o soul_n mindless_a of_o what_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o 3._o this_o distemper_n darken_v the_o reason_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o cloud_n the_o precious_a divine_a light_n that_o god_n have_v infuse_v into_o it_o it_o look_v upon_o god_n in_o christ_n through_o the_o dark_a glass_n of_o fear_n and_o so_o be_v drive_v from_o god_n in_o christ_n rather_o than_o draw_v to_o a_o close_a with_o full_a confidence_n now_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v to_o do_v for_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o distemper_n 1._o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n present_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o love_n compassion_n and_o tender_a nature_n clothe_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o lovingkindness_n and_o thereupon_o begin_v to_o allay_v that_o passion_n of_o fear_n to_o prevent_v the_o rage_n and_o dominion_n of_o it_o the_o spirit_n present_v the_o lord_n as_o it_o be_v come_v down_o with_o a_o still_o gentle_a voice_n speak_v to_o the_o soul_n in_o a_o precious_a allure_a soul-conquering_a heart-inamouring_a way_n and_o thereby_o the_o heart_n begin_v to_o have_v disposition_n beget_v in_o it_o to_o close_v with_o god_n to_o draw_v near_o to_o god_n whereas_o it_o stand_v before_o afar_o off_o affright_v and_o astonish_v 2._o the_o spirit_n use_v to_o expostulate_v with_o the_o
act_n of_o believe_v be_v make_v sweet_o conscious_a to_o itself_o that_o it_o do_v right_o believe_v whence_o the_o renew_a conscience_n determine_v bold_o that_o the_o soul_n be_v everlasting_o one_o with_o christ_n that_o i_o may_v the_o more_o perspicuous_o unfold_v this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o shall_v take_v the_o description_n in_o piece_n and_o open_v it_o in_o part_n first_o you_o be_v to_o understand_v in_o the_o description_n the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o this_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n the_o act_n be_v a_o act_n of_o irradiation_n a_o clothing_n the_o believer_n soul_n with_o a_o transparent_a glory_n and_o brightness_n in_o a_o word_n it_o be_v but_o a_o precious_a beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v upon_o the_o act_n of_o believe_v for_o indeed_o it_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o light_n to_o faith_n and_o light_n to_o sense_n that_o be_v the_o original_n of_o all_o the_o comfort_n to_o believe_a soul_n there_o be_v three_o act_n to_o be_v observe_v concern_v this_o irradiate_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n i._o it_o be_v a_o immediate_a irradiation_n nay_o it_o proceed_v from_o that_o bless_a spirit_n so_o immediate_o that_o nothing_o can_v concur_v with_o the_o spirit_n in_o cast_v that_o precious_a light_n upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n 1._o it_o be_v so_o immediate_a as_o none_o of_o the_o precious_a ordinance_n of_o the_o lord_n can_v proper_o be_v say_v to_o effect_v or_o produce_v instrumental_o this_o precious_a manifestation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n to_o itself_o though_o it_o be_v frequent_o yea_o constant_o through_o some_o precious_a ordinance_n that_o the_o spirit_n do_v vouchsafe_v thus_o to_o irradiate_a or_o manifest_a to_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o of_o these_o ordinance_n 2._o it_o be_v such_o a_o immediate_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n upon_o the_o soul_n that_o demonstration_n either_o from_o the_o antecedent_n or_o consequent_a from_o the_o cause_n or_o from_o the_o effect_n of_o believe_v have_v no_o place_n here_o though_o it_o be_v certain_a there_o may_v be_v infallible_a demonstration_n draw_v by_o a_o believe_a soul_n from_o the_o effect_n of_o his_o believe_v that_o his_o heart_n be_v true_a sincere_a and_o upright_o in_o believe_v yet_o the_o spirit_n do_v so_o immediate_o manifest_v this_o believe_a act_n in_o the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o it_o to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o do_v not_o send_v the_o soul_n to_o this_o or_o that_o work_n to_o see_v what_o holiness_n or_o strength_n of_o love_n or_o affection_n unto_o christ_n nor_o what_o readiness_n of_o heart_n to_o all_o obedience_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v the_o consequence_n of_o his_o believe_v but_o the_o bless_a spirit_n do_v immediate_o in_o the_o very_a moment_n of_o the_o soul_n act_v that_o believe_a act_n cast_v a_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o that_o very_a act_n that_o there_o be_v evidence_n enough_o in_o the_o act_n itself_o that_o the_o act_n be_v a_o true_a believe_a act_n according_a to_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v will_n 3._o this_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v such_o a_o immediate_a act_n that_o the_o spirit_n use_v not_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o discursive_a power_n of_o the_o mind_n to_o collect_v from_o the_o description_n of_o true_a believer_n in_o the_o word_n that_o his_o act_n of_o believe_v be_v upright_o and_o sincere_a according_a to_o the_o lord_n will_n it_o be_v certain_a that_o in_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n it_o do_v discover_v clear_o infallible_o and_o unquestionable_o all_o the_o property_n whereby_o believer_n be_v describe_v in_o the_o word_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n also_o yet_o in_o this_o that_o be_v proper_o call_v the_o witness_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o sense_n in_o its_o manifest_v the_o believe_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n it_o do_v not_o make_v the_o discursive_a power_n in_o the_o mind_n the_o instrument_n whereby_o the_o soul_n shall_v compare_v together_o his_o own_o believe_a act_n and_o the_o description_n of_o the_o true_a believe_a act_n that_o the_o lord_n require_v in_o the_o word_n so_o as_o thence_o to_o collect_v by_o discourse_n that_o the_o believe_a act_n be_v true_a 2_o it_o be_v a_o clear_a act_n full_a of_o perspicuity_n and_o transparency_n the_o spirit_n in_o this_o irradiation_n cast_v as_o clear_v a_o light_n upon_o the_o soul_n believe_v act_n to_o make_v it_o discover_v itself_o as_o the_o rational_a soul_n do_v cast_v a_o natural_a light_n upon_o its_o own_o natural_a act_n so_o that_o it_o be_v proportionable_o evident_a to_o the_o soul_n that_o his_o soul_n do_v believe_v as_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o soul_n live_v or_o that_o the_o soul_n will_v or_o that_o it_o have_v a_o be_v 3_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v act_n be_v authoritative_a irresistible_o powerful_a this_o beam_n of_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v upon_o the_o believe_a soul_n act_v have_v such_o a_o command_a power_n include_v in_o it_o that_o it_o even_o command_v the_o beâ—…_n yea_o it_o command_v undeniable_o so_o as_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a for_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o shut_v its_o eye_n but_o it_o must_v see_v ii_o the_o second_o thing_n to_o be_v observe_v be_v the_o object_n of_o this_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o its_o testimony_n unto_o sense_n the_o object_n name_v in_o the_o description_n be_v the_o soul_n believe_v act_n or_o confidence_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o very_a act_n of_o credit_n that_o the_o soul_n give_v to_o the_o bless_a word_n of_o god_n testify_v that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n that_o that_o particular_a loveless_a soul_n shall_v adhere_v &_o cleave_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o &_o to_o have_v communion_n with_o he_o and_o likewise_o testify_v that_o in_o the_o soul_n give_v credit_n to_o that_o word_n oâ—_n god_n it_o shall_v everlasting_o enjoy_v union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o father_n and_o the_o son_n and_o spirit_n now_o there_o be_v 4._o thing_n observable_a under_o this_o to_o prevent_v mistake_n i._o you_o must_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v only_o the_o present_a believe_a act_n that_o be_v the_o object_n of_o the_o spirit_n manifestation_n or_o irradiation_n the_o spirit_n do_v not_o cast_v those_o beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o the_o soul_n former_a and_o past_a act_n of_o believe_v though_o they_o have_v be_v multiply_v but_o only_o upon_o the_o present_a momentany_a act_n of_o believe_v that_o the_o spirit_n have_v draw_v forth_o from_o the_o soul_n by_o its_o manifest_v of_o the_o gospel_n and_o reveal_v the_o tender_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o despicable_a sinner_n in_o its_o glory_n and_o brightness_n ii_o you_o be_v to_o observe_v that_o the_o believe_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v only_o the_o principal_a and_o primary_n object_n of_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n or_o manifestation_n so_o that_o the_o spirit_n cast_v beam_n of_o heavenly_a light_n upon_o no_o other_o act_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n at_o present_a but_o only_o upon_o that_o act_n common_o the_o spirit_n do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n so_o clothe_v the_o act_n of_o love_n with_o such_o a_o glorious_a splendour_n and_o brightness_n as_o that_o be_v also_o visible_a in_o the_o same_o moment_n to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o it_o see_v unquestionable_o his_o arm_n of_o love_n grasp_a the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o well_o as_o he_o see_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o confidence_n in_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v he_o into_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o he_o iii_o you_o must_v observe_v the_o virtue_n of_o the_o spirit_n irradiate_a or_o manifest_v this_o believe_a act_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o virtue_n of_o it_o be_v to_o discover_v the_o truth_n sincerity_n and_o uprightness_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o believe_v 1._o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n to_o make_v it_o unquestionable_a and_o undeniable_a to_o the_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o wretched_a corrupt_a heart_n do_v not_o delude_v nor_o deceive_v he_o but_o that_o his_o heart_n do_v rely_v with_o some_o degree_n of_o strength_n and_o embrace_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v union_n and_o communion_n to_o the_o soul_n 2._o it_o make_v apparent_a the_o uprightness_n that_o be_v the_o strait_a conformity_n of_o the_o heart_n in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o command_v of_o believe_v iv_o you_o may_v observe_v here_o how_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o earnest_n of_o the_o soul_n everlasting_a inheritance_n or_o of_o the_o soul_n everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n it_o be_v only_o as_o the_o spirit_n do_v irradiate_a the_o soul_n believe_v
through_o a_o clear_a evidence_n have_v beget_v such_o a_o precious_a confidence_n in_o the_o soul_n the_o believe_a soul_n ought_v to_o say_v concern_v that_o his_o confidence_n as_o job_n say_v concern_v he_o job_n 27.5_o i_o will_v not_o remove_v my_o integrity_n from_o i_o i_o will_v not_o let_v go_v this_o my_o confidence_n till_o i_o have_v prove_v and_o examine_v the_o evidence_n of_o my_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n from_o whence_o this_o confidence_n do_v arise_v this_o also_o may_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o diminish_n of_o this_o confidence_n in_o the_o believe_a soul_n before_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v a_o infinite_a injury_n to_o the_o sweet_a comforter_n the_o bless_a spirit_n who_o through_o the_o manifestation_n unto_o the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n establish_v the_o soul_n in_o that_o precious_a confidence_n the_o reject_v of_o that_o confidence_n so_o wrought_v by_o the_o bless_a spirit_n be_v a_o slight_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o his_o most_o precious_a office_n and_o a_o disparagement_n of_o the_o very_a witness_n of_o that_o bless_a spirit_n 2._o it_o be_v a_o most_o sinful_a unconstancy_n and_o fickleness_n to_o reject_v any_o thing_n receive_v before_o clear_a demonstration_n of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o soul_n in_o receive_v it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o order_n rhat_o the_o lord_n require_v shall_v be_v in_o all_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o soul_n which_o be_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v subject_a to_o the_o power_n of_o holy_a sanctify_a reason_n so_o that_o this_o confidence_n before_o trial_n ought_v to_o be_v maintain_v in_o its_o full_a strength_n in_o case_n such_o a_o confidence_n be_v beget_v by_o a_o evidence_n former_o receive_v that_o he_o be_v actual_o unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n quest_n but_o here_o be_v a_o question_n then_o by_o the_o way_n will_v be_v open_v but_o will_v the_o soul_n 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the_o write_a word_n and_o aught_o to_o receive_v it_o as_o certain_a and_o infallible_a because_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o write_a word_n this_o appear_v i._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v the_o direct_a command_n of_o heaven_n that_o believe_v soul_n shall_v stick_v and_o cleave_v only_o to_o that_o truth_n that_o be_v discover_v in_o the_o lord_n write_a word_n and_o that_o believe_a soul_n shall_v be_v confirm_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o that_o precious_a gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n because_o it_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o lord_n write_a word_n in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n this_o you_o shall_v find_v in_o that_o 2_o tim._n 3.14_o 15_o 16._o continue_v thou_o in_o the_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v learn_v and_o have_v be_v assure_v of_o know_v of_o who_o thou_o have_v learn_v they_o and_o that_o from_o a_o child_n thou_o have_v know_v the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o be_v able_a to_o make_v thou_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n through_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o correction_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n first_o it_o be_v necessary_a here_o to_o observe_v the_o occasion_n you_o shall_v find_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o chapter_n the_o apostle_n have_v foretold_v of_o perilous_a time_n approach_v wherein_o there_o shall_v be_v many_o false_a doctor_n in_o the_o world_n in_o who_o snare_n many_o soul_n shall_v be_v take_v captive_n therefore_o lest_o timothy_n also_o shall_v be_v ensnare_v the_o apostle_n write_v these_o verse_n on_o purpose_n to_o endeavour_v to_o establish_v tymothy_n soul_n in_o the_o truth_n say_v he_o continue_v thou_o in_o the_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v learned_a know_v of_o who_o thou_o have_v receive_v they_o now_o the_o argument_n he_o use_v to_o settle_v timothy_n in_o the_o truth_n be_v two_o first_o from_o his_o apostolical_a call_n know_v from_o who_o thou_o have_v learn_v they_o from_o a_o apostle_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o have_v receive_v it_o from_o jesus_n christ_n the_o second_o argument_n be_v in_o those_o next_o verse_n that_o from_o a_o child_n thou_o have_v know_v the_o holy_a scripture_n the_o write_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o those_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n that_o speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o the_o lord_n cause_v to_o be_v write_v as_o a_o rule_n now_o this_o be_v his_o argument_n to_o continue_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n receive_v the_o apostle_n do_v illustrate_v it_o by_o three_o or_o four_o thing_n first_o he_o discovers_z to_o he_o that_o those_o write_n of_o the_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n that_o he_o have_v be_v acquaint_v with_o be_v able_a to_o make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n jesus_n that_o be_v if_o his_o soul_n do_v receive_v those_o discovery_n in_o those_o scripture_n by_o faith_n so_o that_o the_o apostle_n intimate_v thus_o much_o that_o it_o be_v infinite_a folly_n in_o timothy_n to_o receive_v any_o other_o doctrine_n than_o what_o he_o have_v teach_v and_o what_o he_o have_v learned_a to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n see_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n be_v contain_v in_o they_o second_o he_o illustrate_v this_o argument_n by_o a_o second_o reason_n and_o that_o be_v take_v from_o the_o authority_n of_o those_o holy_a scripture_n the_o matter_n contain_v in_o they_o say_v the_o apostle_n be_v such_o as_o be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n the_o matter_n contain_v in_o they_o be_v but_o the_o breathe_v of_o god_n into_o the_o soul_n of_o those_o man_n that_o write_v it_o it_o be_v god_n voice_n to_o thy_o soul_n say_v he_o therefore_o take_v heed_n thou_o continue_v in_o the_o doctrine_n there_o discover_v three_o he_o illustrate_v this_o argument_n by_o a_o reason_n take_v from_o the_o use_n of_o those_o holy_a scripture_n and_o that_o be_v in_o these_o word_n it_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o correction_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n it_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n that_o be_v for_o all_o matter_n of_o faith_n it_o will_v instruct_v thou_o say_v he_o in_o every_o thing_n that_o the_o lord_n command_v thy_o soul_n to_o believe_v yea_o it_o be_v profitable_a for_o reproof_n also_o for_o overthrow_v all_o false_a opinion_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o faith_n of_o jesus_n christ_n yea_o for_o correction_n that_o be_v for_o the_o reprove_v all_o evil_a manner_n whatever_o for_o correct_v all_o vicious_a way_n whatever_o they_o be_v yea_o for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n that_o be_v they_o be_v profitable_a to_o discover_v what_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v to_o thou_o 〈◊〉_d full_a so_o far_o as_o be_v needful_a for_o thou_o to_o know_v yea_o the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o add_v a_o four_o reason_n to_o illustrate_v this_o argument_n and_o that_o be_v in_o those_o next_o word_n which_o he_o take_v for_o the_o end_n of_o write_v these_o holy_a scripture_n and_o that_o be_v the_o perfect_a the_o man_n of_o god_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v furnish_v unto_o all_o perfection_n ii_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v the_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o the_o write_a word_n in_o regard_n the_o write_a word_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v give_v by_o god_n himself_o as_o a_o everlasting_a unchangeable_a rule_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o truth_n and_o falsehood_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o when_o he_o be_v to_o make_v it_o manifest_a to_o the_o unbelieve_a jew_n that_o he_o himself_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n he_o fetch_v his_o high_a testimony_n from_o the_o write_a word_n as_o you_o may_v observe_v john_n 5._o in_o compare_v for_o 31_o and_o so_o on_o and_o ver_fw-la 39_o together_o he_o tell_v they_o he_o will_v not_o bear_v witness_n of_o himself_o lest_o his_o witness_n shall_v not_o have_v evidence_v demonstration_n enough_o to_o bear_v witness_n to_o he_o because_o it_o be_v from_o himself_o but_o he_o tell_v they_o john_n the_o baptist_n bear_v witness_n to_o he_o ver_fw-la 33._o he_o give_v they_o a_o second_o argument_n from_o his_o work_n ver_fw-la 36._o and_o ver_fw-la 37._o the_o father_n that_o send_v he_o bare_a witness_n of_o he_o but_o ver_fw-la 39_o to_o give_v that_o that_o shall_v be_v a_o undeniable_a testimony_n even_o unto_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o jew_n themselves_o he_o tell_v they_o that_o the_o scripture_n the_o holy_a writing_n of_o those_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n they_o testify_v of_o he_o say_v he_o search_v the_o scripture_n for_o in_o they_o you_o think_v you_o have_v eternal_a life_n and_o they_o be_v they_o which_o testify_v of_o i_o hence_o when_o paul_n begin_v to_o preach_v jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o prove_v that_o jesus_n of_o nazereth_n who_o he_o preach_v be_v the_o mediator_n between_o god_n and_o man_n he_o persuade_v they_o concern_v jesus_n both_o out_o of_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o out_o of_o the_o prophet_n acts._n 28.23_o and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o in_o act_n 17.11_o that_o those_o man_n of_o berea_n preach_v by_o search_v the_o scripture_n daily_o whether_o those_o thing_n be_v so_o second_o it_o must_v be_v clear_v that_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n do_v particular_o reveal_v unto_o believe_a soul_n their_o union_n with_o christ_n both_o unto_o their_o faith_n and_o unto_o their_o sense_n first_o it_o do_v reveal_v particular_o unto_o their_o faith_n their_o infallible_a admission_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o appear_v in_o regard_n the_o lord_n testimony_n that_o he_o will_v admit_v every_o soul_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v absolute_o universal_a without_o the_o least_o acceptation_n or_o limitation_n so_o that_o it_o comprehend_v every_o particular_a soul_n whatever_o to_o who_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v 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that_o thence_o it_o appear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v speak_v and_o declare_v as_o particular_o to_o a_o believe_a soul_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o if_o it_o do_v speak_v to_o any_o soul_n by_o name_n for_o that_o light_n that_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n sense_n and_o feeling_n or_o knowledge_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v but_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n in_o believe_v the_o write_a worb_n speak_v as_o plain_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n sense_n and_o knowledge_n his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v declare_v to_o he_o that_o he_o do_v particular_o believe_v as_o it_o do_v declare_v to_o any_o particular_a rebellious_a obstinate_a sinner_n that_o he_o particular_o do_v sin_n the_o word_n say_v whosoever_o walk_v thus_o or_o thus_o transgress_v the_o will_n of_o god_n now_o this_o speak_v to_o every_o particular_a soul_n so_o sin_v que._n but_o the_o soul_n may_v say_v how_o can_v a_o soul_n know_v 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your_o will_n answer_v to_o the_o lord_n bless_v will_n soul_n i_o can_v only_o call_v for_o conscience_n to_o answer_v i_o beseech_v you_o stop_v not_o its_o mouth_n but_o let_v it_o give_v a_o answer_n in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n whether_o your_o hope_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ_n do_v so_o root_v that_o principle_n in_o your_o heart_n that_o nothing_o can_v satisfy_v your_o soul_n but_o a_o full_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v so_o as_o you_o have_v be_v unsatisfied_a in_o the_o full_a act_n of_o obedience_n you_o have_v perform_v that_o thence_o you_o have_v cause_v the_o name_n of_o god_n to_o be_v exalt_v through_o you_o that_o you_o have_v bear_v witness_n to_o the_o world_n that_o the_o perfection_n of_o holiness_n dwell_v in_o god_n only_o and_o all_o aught_o to_o bow_v down_o in_o subjection_n to_o that_o absolute_a holy_a will_n of_o he_o 2._o i_o beseech_v you_o try_v whether_o your_o apprehension_n of_o salvation_n by_o christ_n do_v so_o sweet_o build_v your_o soul_n up_o in_o the_o belief_n of_o that_o great_a truth_n that_o no_o less_o than_o a_o perfect_a conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n will_v aught_o to_o satisfy_v the_o desire_n of_o any_o soul_n that_o thence_o you_o have_v be_v perpetual_o groan_v after_o a_o large_a portion_n of_o the_o sanctify_a spirit_n of_o chrit_n what_o do_v your_o heart_n answer_v have_v you_o not_o satisfy_v yourselves_o with_o freedom_n from_o gross_a sin_n and_o think_v your_o condition_n shall_v be_v safe_a enough_o because_o free_a from_o the_o gross_a pollution_n of_o the_o world_n and_o other_o of_o you_o have_v you_o not_o satisfy_v yourselves_o with_o holy_a duty_n and_o think_v you_o gain_v a_o sufficient_a degree_n of_o holiness_n that_o your_o heart_n never_o groan_v after_o a_o large_a portion_n 3._o examine_v whether_o your_o apprehension_n of_o your_o salvation_n by_o
behold_v some_o working_n in_o its_o spirit_n also_o some_o holy_a act_n in_o and_o upon_o jesus_n christ_n at_o the_o same_o time_n the_o soul_n behold_v its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n it_o behold_v its_o receive_n jesus_n christ_n which_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n 3._o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o conclusion_n be_v this_o that_o no_o work_n either_o inward_a or_o outward_a perform_v by_o the_o soul_n have_v sufficient_a light_n in_o themselves_o to_o manifest_v themselves_o unto_o the_o soul_n nor_o from_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o nature_n to_o manifest_v the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n though_o there_o be_v a_o inward_a act_n of_o soul_n that_o be_v a_o inseparable_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n which_o be_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n yet_o that_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o itself_o consider_v as_o be_v be_v the_o mere_a act_n and_o work_v of_o the_o soul_n have_v not_o sufficient_a light_n in_o itself_o to_o discover_v itself_o to_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v the_o inseparable_a act_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n likewise_o be_v every_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n inward_a or_o outward_a of_o the_o same_o nature_n the_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v work_n of_o light_n and_o yet_o the_o beam_n of_o light_n shine_v so_o dim_o forth_o as_o they_o can_v discover_v their_o own_o nature_n to_o the_o soul_n they_o can_v discover_v themselves_o to_o be_v those_o work_n that_o the_o scripture_n hold_v forth_o to_o be_v the_o infallible_a consequence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o the_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n have_v not_o sufficient_a light_n in_o themselves_o to_o discover_v union_n will_v appear_v in_o divers_a respect_n 1._o because_o all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o soul_n unite_v to_o christ_n may_v be_v present_a in_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n be_v obscure_a and_o dark_a the_o act_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v the_o most_o eminent_a effect_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n may_v be_v very_o strong_a in_o the_o soul_n when_o the_o soul_n may_v be_v yet_o dark_a a_o clear_a instance_n will_v be_v give_v in_o mat._n 27.46_o by_o the_o captain_n of_o our_o salvation_n who_o believe_v when_o he_o hang_v upon_o the_o cross_n and_o exercise_v faith_n in_o god_n as_o appear_v in_o those_o word_n my_o god_n yet_o the_o union_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o god_n the_o father_n as_o mediator_n be_v dark_a that_o make_v he_o cry_v out_o my_o god_n my_o god_n why_o have_v thou_o forsake_v i_o the_o hypostatical_a union_n be_v firm_a and_o as_o firm_a as_o now_o it_o be_v in_o heaven_n but_o the_o manifestation_n of_o that_o union_n be_v obscure_a when_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v bear_v the_o great_a burden_n of_o the_o consequence_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v possible_a in_o bear_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o absence_n of_o god_n from_o he_o for_o a_o season_n 2._o it_o appear_v in_o regard_n the_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v only_o passive_a the_o union_n be_v complete_a between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n before_o any_o one_o act_n go_v forth_o from_o the_o soul_n unto_o christ_n it_o be_v impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v the_o least_o motion_n of_o the_o soul_n towards_o the_o perfect_a or_o complete_n of_o the_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n unless_o we_o can_v conceive_v there_o may_v be_v motion_n in_o dead_a person_n that_o there_o may_v be_v action_n where_o there_o be_v no_o life_n now_o the_o union_n be_v passive_a there_o may_v be_v a_o manifestation_n of_o the_o union_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o soul_n at_o the_o same_o time_n at_o the_o same_o moment_n that_o the_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v complete_v i_o do_v not_o say_v it_o be_v ordinary_a but_o i_o say_v there_o may_v be_v a_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n come_v down_o into_o the_o heart_n in_o that_o instant_n and_o moment_n wherein_o jesus_n christ_n do_v take_v actual_a possession_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o unite_v it_o unto_o himself_o now_o in_o case_n the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v so_o evidence_v with_o christ_n then_o shall_v all_o work_n either_o inward_a or_o outward_a in_o the_o soul_n be_v exclude_v from_o have_v any_o interest_n in_o the_o manifestation_n of_o that_o union_n 3._o in_o regard_v the_o same_o kind_n of_o work_n that_o do_v arise_v proper_o from_o the_o union_n of_o the_o soul_n with_o christ_n though_o not_o peculiarly_a may_v arise_v from_o other_o principle_n where_o there_o be_v no_o union_n there_o be_v three_o false_a original_n of_o such_o outward_a work_n 1._o god_n himself_o may_v be_v the_o original_a of_o such_o work_n in_o some_o soul_n though_o not_o by_o virtue_n of_o union_n nor_o in_o relation_n unto_o union_n that_o be_v though_o the_o lord_n convey_v not_o any_o influence_n that_o be_v the_o proper_a influence_n peculiar_a unto_o union_n nor_o though_o the_o lord_n do_v not_o convey_v those_o influence_n into_o the_o soul_n from_o whence_o those_o outward_a work_n proceed_v to_o bring_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n prayer_n and_o reveal_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o read_v of_o they_o and_o all_o outward_a work_n of_o a_o soul_n may_v be_v produce_v by_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n only_o in_o relation_n to_o other_o soul_n that_o be_v already_o unite_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n may_v convey_v large_a stream_n of_o gift_n and_o inward_a affection_n unto_o some_o soul_n and_o excite_v they_o to_o the_o employ_v of_o all_o those_o gift_n in_o all_o outward_a work_n of_o his_o own_o worship_n only_o in_o respect_n to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o own_o people_n soul_n when_o the_o lord_n intend_v not_o any_o benefit_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o partake_v of_o those_o gift_n thus_o the_o lord_n deal_v with_o cyrus_n isa_n 45.1_o and_o chap._n 44.28_o thus_o say_v the_o lord_n to_o cyrus_n he_o be_v my_o shepherd_n and_o shall_v perform_v all_o my_o pleasure_n even_o say_v to_o jerusalem_n thou_o shall_v be_v build_v and_o to_o the_o temple_n thy_o foundation_n shall_v he_o lay_v the_o lord_n do_v convey_v strength_n to_o cyrus_n to_o carry_v he_o on_o in_o a_o glorious_a work_n of_o reform_v his_o worship_n and_o to_o build_v the_o temple_n when_o the_o lord_n intend_v no_o good_a to_o cyrus_n i_o mean_v so_o as_o to_o bring_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n thus_o god_n furnish_v john_n with_o zeal_n against_o idolatry_n for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o people_n soul_n and_o it_o redound_v little_a to_o the_o good_a of_o his_o soul_n for_o aught_o we_o know_v judas_n be_v furnish_v with_o as_o good_a gift_n as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o seem_v to_o pray_v with_o as_o much_o earnestness_n and_o publish_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n with_o as_o much_o zeal_n as_o any_o of_o the_o apostle_n whereas_o none_o of_o those_o gift_n that_o judas_n have_v be_v convey_v by_o virtue_n of_o the_o union_n of_o his_o soul_n with_o christ_n nor_o be_v give_v with_o a_o intent_n to_o bring_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n 2._o a_o second_o false_a original_n of_o such_o work_n be_v the_o soul_n own_o principle_n of_o self_n self_n end_n self_n lust_n self_n intendment_n may_v be_v like_o the_o spring_n that_o may_v set_v all_o the_o wheel_n of_o the_o affection_n on_o work_n and_o produce_v all_o those_o outward_a expression_n in_o the_o work_n of_o god_n certain_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o chief_a intendment_n in_o the_o pharisee_n in_o all_o their_o work_n of_o holiness_n and_o strictness_n in_o their_o conversation_n that_o they_o may_v advance_v themselves_o outward_o and_o to_o eternity_n and_o think_v to_o tie_v god_n to_o give_v they_o heaven_n for_o it_o 3._o the_o three_o false_a original_n of_o work_n that_o proper_o flow_v from_o union_n be_v from_o the_o devil_n himself_o the_o working_n of_o prayer_n of_o hear_v of_o meditate_v or_o forsake_v sin_n in_o the_o conversation_n may_v come_v from_o the_o devil_n himself_o he_o take_v his_o opportunity_n to_o sail_v with_o the_o wind_n and_o row_v with_o the_o tide_n he_o see_v the_o affection_n work_v towards_o duty_n of_o holiness_n he_o press_v with_o all_o his_o might_n to_o the_o performance_n of_o they_o that_o he_o may_v weary_v out_o the_o soul_n with_o they_o or_o else_o cause_v the_o confidence_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o be_v place_v in_o they_o and_o the_o soul_n to_o promise_v itself_o happiness_n by_o they_o certain_o the_o zeal_n of_o paul_n that_o he_o have_v for_o god_n and_o the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v act_v by_o the_o devil_n himself_o and_o saul_n that_o be_v so_o zealous_a to_o offer_v sacrifice_n before_o he_o go_v to_o battle_n it_o be_v from_o the_o devil_n those_o soul_n
opinion_n perfection_n of_o conformity_n to_o scripture_n rule_n be_v the_o command_n and_o injunction_n that_o lie_v upon_o every_o soul_n now_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n be_v attain_v and_o yet_o the_o soul_n fall_v short_a of_o scripture_n rule_v thence_o it_o necessary_o follow_v that_o no_o soul_n may_v or_o aught_o to_o content_v itself_o with_o those_o evidence_n iii_o you_o must_v note_v that_o the_o seek_v after_o and_o walk_v by_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n only_o do_v expose_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o want_n of_o all_o prop_n support_n and_o comfort_n in_o the_o great_a necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n these_o evidence_n be_v like_o the_o little_a brook_n the_o prophet_n elisha_n sit_v down_o by_o when_o he_o go_v from_o jezebel_n that_o run_v only_o in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o famine_n and_o after_o be_v dry_a or_o rather_o they_o be_v like_o jonah_n gourd_n jonah_n 4.6_o of_o which_o the_o poor_a man_n be_v exceed_v glad_a for_o a_o night_n and_o feel_v the_o shadow_n of_o it_o but_o when_o the_o sun_n arise_v a_o worm_n strike_v the_o gourd_n and_o jonah_n be_v expose_v to_o the_o heat_n of_o the_o sun_n thus_o may_v the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o inherent_a quality_n and_o the_o work_n of_o those_o quality_n be_v like_o a_o precious_a gourd_n for_o a_o season_n where_o the_o soul_n may_v have_v refreshment_n but_o if_o the_o sun_n get_v to_o the_o mid_a heaven_n and_o there_o come_v any_o scorch_a heat_n then_o do_v they_o vanish_v like_o jonah_n gourd_n and_o the_o soul_n be_v expose_v to_o a_o comfortless_a hopeless_a condition_n for_o eternity_n there_o be_v four_o great_a necessity_n of_o the_o soul_n when_o it_o have_v the_o great_a need_n of_o evidence_n and_o in_o all_o these_o the_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n fail_v the_o soul_n 1_o when_o any_o sin_n in_o the_o heinousness_n of_o its_o guilt_n and_o the_o dreadfulness_n of_o its_o merit_n and_o desert_n be_v charge_v upon_o the_o conscience_n when_o sin_n come_v once_o to_o be_v thus_o charge_v it_o cause_v all_o the_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n to_o vanish_v and_o perish_v and_o leave_v the_o soul_n comfortless_a as_o it_o be_v with_o david_n psal_n 51.3_o he_o cry_v out_o my_o sin_n be_v ever_o before_o i_o or_o as_o it_o be_v with_o poor_a job_n chap._n 13.26_o 27_o thou_o write_v bitter_a thing_n against_o i_o and_o make_v i_o possess_v the_o iniquity_n of_o my_o youth_n now_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v either_o in_o job_n case_n or_o david_n case_n that_o any_o iniquity_n come_v thus_o before_o the_o soul_n then_o be_v a_o soul_n in_o great_a necessity_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n when_o a_o debt_n come_v to_o be_v charge_v upon_o a_o person_n and_o the_o bailiff_n come_v to_o arrest_v he_o than_o there_o be_v necessity_n of_o some_o bail_n now_o conscience_n come_v to_o arrest_v the_o soul_n and_o offer_v to_o carry_v it_o into_o hell_n and_o now_o do_v those_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n from_o the_o soul_n grace_n leave_v the_o soul_n hopeless_a and_o helpless_a the_o thing_n be_v evident_a when_o conscience_n be_v thus_o charge_v a_o iniquity_n upon_o the_o soul_n it_o become_v witness_n and_o advocate_n and_o judge_n it_o witness_v the_o fact_n to_o be_v do_v it_o plead_v the_o fact_n condemnation_n and_o pronounce_v the_o sentence_n 2._o the_o second_o great_a necessity_n be_v when_o some_o strong_a master_n corruption_n lead_v the_o soul_n captive_a and_o even_o keep_v the_o poor_a distress_a soul_n in_o chain_n you_o must_v know_v though_o the_o reign_a power_n of_o sin_n be_v destroy_v in_o soul_n unite_v to_o christ_n rom._n 6.14_o yet_o the_o tyrannise_a power_n of_o sin_n be_v not_o destroy_v though_o sin_n can_v have_v the_o throne_n of_o the_o will_n to_o sit_v there_o as_o lord_n commander_n yet_o it_o will_v be_v always_o strive_v for_o the_o throne_n then_o be_v the_o soul_n in_o great_a strait_n and_o know_v not_o what_o to_o do_v without_o evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o know_v he_o shall_v be_v conqueror_n over_o such_o a_o corruption_n now_o in_o this_o condition_n the_o inherent_a quality_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o work_n of_o sanctification_n leave_v the_o soul_n helpless_a and_o comfortless_a now_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v upon_o corruption_n and_o it_o be_v hard_o for_o he_o at_o that_o time_n to_o discern_v grace_n 3._o another_o great_a exigency_n of_o the_o soul_n for_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v when_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o quicken_a spirit_n be_v suspend_v from_o the_o soul_n when_o not_o only_o a_o state_n of_o deadness_n be_v grow_v upon_o the_o heart_n but_o as_o with_o those_o psal_n 80.4_o god_n seem_v to_o be_v angry_a with_o their_o prayer_n and_o come_v not_o in_o that_o the_o soul_n begin_v to_o complain_v as_o in_o lament_n 3.44_o that_o the_o lord_n shut_v out_o his_o prayer_n or_o complain_v as_o job_n chap._n 23.8_o 9_o behold_v i_o go_v forward_o but_o he_o be_v not_o there_o and_o backward_o but_o i_o can_v perceive_v he_o etc._n etc._n then_o be_v the_o soul_n in_o great_a extremity_n that_o now_o unless_o there_o be_v some_o ground_n of_o evidence_n of_o union_n the_o soul_n begin_v to_o be_v hopeless_a and_o altogether_o comfortless_a and_o alas_o when_o the_o soul_n be_v bring_v to_o this_o exigency_n then_o do_v its_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n from_o its_o own_o grace_n fail_v and_o the_o soul_n question_n whether_o it_o ever_o draw_v a_o right_a conclusion_n 4._o the_o four_o extremity_n be_v when_o the_o lord_n deliver_v the_o soul_n to_o the_o buffet_n of_o satan_n for_o a_o season_n when_o satan_n begin_v to_o use_v all_o his_o policy_n to_o shake_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o make_v his_o hope_n and_o faith_n to_o shake_v when_o the_o devil_n charge_v his_o cannon_n against_o the_o soul_n and_o let_v loose_v all_o temptation_n at_o once_o blasphemous_a thought_n come_v into_o the_o heart_n question_v whether_o there_o be_v a_o god_n or_o no_o and_o the_o soul_n can_v meddle_v with_o nothing_o but_o one_o blasphemous_a thought_n or_o other_o come_v upon_o the_o soul_n and_o it_o know_v not_o from_o whence_o they_o come_v and_o when_o satan_n be_v thus_o buffet_n the_o soul_n than_o a_o man_n inherent_a grace_n and_o the_o working_n of_o they_o that_o he_o see_v before_o do_v now_o fail_v the_o soul_n in_o regard_n satan_n in_o this_o case_n first_o strike_v at_o the_o strong_a hold_n he_o strike_v at_o the_o foundation_n he_o strike_v at_o union_n with_o christ_n 4._o there_o be_v a_o four_o note_n about_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n that_o the_o soul_n cleave_v unto_o they_o do_v make_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n increase_n and_o diminish_v according_a to_o the_o increase_n and_o diminish_v of_o the_o working_n of_o his_o soul_n and_o of_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n upon_o his_o heart_n experience_n itself_o teach_v we_o that_o while_o our_o soul_n take_v our_o evidence_n from_o those_o qualification_n so_o long_o as_o we_o find_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n work_v lively_a in_o our_o heart_n our_o hope_n be_v lively_a and_o our_o confidence_n firm_a and_o no_o soon_o these_o cease_v again_o but_o our_o confidence_n and_o our_o hope_n fail_v then_o the_o soul_n question_n again_o whether_o jesus_n christ_n be_v tender_v to_o his_o soul_n in_o particular_a whereas_o before_o he_o have_v some_o confidence_n of_o it_o 5._o there_o be_v a_o five_o note_n about_o these_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o cleave_a unto_o those_o evidence_n of_o opinion_n do_v make_v the_o whole_a life_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o soul_n depend_v only_o upon_o sense_n when_o the_o soul_n trust_v to_o those_o alone_a he_o trust_v only_o the_o eye_n of_o sense_n both_o in_o see_v his_o happiness_n for_o the_o present_a and_o for_o eternity_n now_o from_o thence_o first_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o soul_n consolation_n be_v prevent_v the_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v shut_v the_o great_a window_n which_o be_v the_o evidence_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o promise_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o only_o open_v the_o small_a crevice_n of_o sense_n and_o experience_n now_o needs_o must_v the_o fullness_n of_o light_n in_o the_o house_n be_v prevent_v when_o the_o great_a window_n be_v shut_v voluntary_o and_o much_o more_o be_v the_o comfort_n of_o the_o soul_n prevent_v when_o the_o great_a window_n of_o comfort_n be_v shut_v second_o the_o constancy_n of_o consolation_n be_v prevent_v the_o soul_n may_v both_o see_v the_o lord_n will_v to_o be_v unchangeable_a towards_o he_o in_o take_v he_o into_o union_n and_o may_v see_v the_o command_n of_o god_n to_o his_o soul_n to_o believe_v that_o his_o union_n and_o receive_v the_o promise_n of_o god_n to_o take_v his_o soul_n
fulfil_v whatever_o can_v intervene_v therefore_o i_o will_v not_o make_v such_o a_o covenant_n as_o i_o make_v with_o your_o father_n which_o my_o covenant_n they_o break_v observe_v that_o but_o i_o will_v make_v such_o a_o covenant_n as_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v able_a to_o break_v for_o say_v god_n i_o will_v write_v my_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n and_o put_v my_o fear_n in_o they_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o will_v do_v all_o thing_n for_o they_o so_o that_o there_o be_v not_o one_o promise_n that_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o conditional_a promise_n indeed_o improper_o i_o grant_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n may_v be_v divide_v into_o conditional_a and_o absolute_a promise_n some_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n may_v be_v call_v conditional_a in_o this_o respect_n that_o there_o be_v some_o limit_n and_o bound_n set_v to_o the_o promise_n as_o these_o two_o great_a bound_n his_o own_o glory_n and_o his_o people_n good_a and_o only_o in_o three_o sort_n of_o promise_n those_o limitation_n hold_v as_o 1._o in_o all_o temporal_a promise_n of_o temporal_a blessing_n and_o favour_n to_o his_o own_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o absolute_o promise_v riches_n and_o honour_n and_o prosperity_n to_o all_o the_o subject_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n though_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o this_o life_n and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o though_o he_o have_v tie_v his_o own_o sufficiency_n to_o supply_v they_o yet_o not_o so_o as_o it_o admit_v of_o no_o limitation_n but_o these_o two_o come_v in_o the_o lord_n glory_n and_o his_o people_n own_o good_a and_o likewise_o in_o dispense_n all_o blessing_n privative_o that_o be_v the_o free_v the_o soul_n from_o all_o temporal_a evil_n from_o affliction_n distress_n and_o burden_n this_o freedom_n be_v promise_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n yet_o it_o admit_v of_o this_o limitation_n so_o far_o as_o it_o may_v concern_v the_o lord_n glory_n so_o that_o so_o far_o as_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n be_v advance_v in_o his_o people_n groan_v under_o burden_n and_o suffering_n for_o a_o time_n the_o covenant_n be_v nevertheless_o fulfil_v 2._o the_o promise_n of_o god_n give_v the_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n god_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o they_o in_o the_o covenant_n without_o limitation_n therefore_o in_o 1_o cor._n 12._o those_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n god_n dispense_v they_o various_o one_o he_o fill_v with_o they_o and_o leave_v another_o poor_a and_o weak_a void_a almost_o of_o any_o of_o those_o gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n may_v be_v advance_v in_o that_o dispensation_n and_o certain_o every_o soul_n be_v not_o suitable_a to_o manage_v such_o a_o treasury_n of_o common_a gift_n therefore_o the_o other_o limitation_n come_v in_o also_o the_o soul_n own_o good_a 3._o those_o condition_n or_o limitation_n hold_v only_o in_o the_o promise_n concern_v the_o measure_n and_o manner_n and_o order_n of_o god_n dispence_v himself_o to_o soul_n in_o privative_a or_o positive_a thing_n all_o spiritual_a mercy_n privative_a as_o well_o as_o positive_a that_o be_v the_o preservation_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o all_o temptation_n and_o buffet_n of_o satan_n the_o preservation_n of_o the_o soul_n from_o all_o desertion_n this_o be_v also_o include_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o it_o be_v in_o this_o sense_n but_o a_o conditional_a promise_n a_o limit_a promise_n so_o far_o as_o may_v be_v for_o the_o lord_n own_o honour_n the_o soul_n shall_v be_v free_a from_o temptation_n yet_o now_o though_o in_o this_o sense_n under_o all_o these_o three_o head_n there_o be_v continual_a promise_n yet_o that_o which_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a for_o the_o soul_n can_v be_v say_v to_o come_v under_o any_o of_o these_o limitation_n life_n and_o salvation_n and_o everlasting_a communion_n with_o the_o glorious_a trinity_n and_o with_o the_o glorious_a saint_n and_o angel_n be_v so_o absolute_o promise_v as_o they_o come_v not_o under_o these_o limitation_n but_o that_o which_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a for_o the_o soul_n the_o lord_n have_v bind_v himself_o absolute_o to_o convey_v to_o the_o soul_n yet_o these_o limit_a promise_n can_v proper_o be_v call_v conditional_a but_o be_v absolute_a in_o themselves_o as_o will_v appear_v in_o three_o particular_n 1._o these_o limit_a promise_n thus_o bound_v be_v not_o leave_v in_o the_o limitation_n of_o they_o unto_o the_o person_n to_o who_o they_o be_v make_v so_o that_o they_o be_v improper_o call_v conditional_a promise_n in_o regard_n conditional_a promise_n do_v imply_v some_o condition_n to_o be_v perform_v by_o the_o party_n to_o who_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v now_o these_o limitation_n of_o such_o promise_n be_v not_o in_o the_o power_n of_o person_n to_o who_o they_o be_v make_v that_o they_o shall_v judge_n and_o determine_v when_o for_o their_o own_o good_a and_o for_o the_o lord_n glory_v they_o shall_v have_v such_o and_o such_o promise_n make_v good_a to_o they_o but_o they_o depend_v upon_o the_o sole_a wisdom_n of_o god_n 2._o these_o promise_n bound_v with_o these_o extent_n be_v simple_o and_o absolute_o determine_v by_o god_n to_o be_v fulfil_v according_a as_o they_o be_v propound_v now_o then_o be_v a_o promise_n absolute_a when_o without_o respect_n to_o any_o thing_n whatever_o that_o can_v possible_o intervene_v or_o be_v interpose_v it_o be_v undertake_v to_o be_v fulfil_v to_o the_o person_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v according_a to_o the_o full_a extent_n wherein_o it_o be_v propound_v now_o in_o the_o full_a extent_n of_o the_o propound_v of_o those_o promise_n wherein_o god_n may_v have_v glory_n and_o the_o soul_n advantage_n the_o lord_n have_v as_o absolute_o engage_v to_o give_v all_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n all_o outward_a blessing_n whatever_o possible_o can_v intervene_v as_o he_o have_v also_o any_o part_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n 3._o these_o promise_n pertain_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n bound_v with_o limitation_n be_v by_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o god_n bound_v with_o such_o limitation_n only_o as_o make_v they_o to_o be_v absolute_a love_n and_o grace_n from_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n for_o indeed_o those_o limitation_n be_v no_o other_o than_o prevention_n of_o what_o may_v make_v such_o promise_n to_o have_v evil_o interweave_v with_o they_o as_o well_o as_o good_a and_o then_o shall_v they_o not_o be_v absolute_o love_v for_o observe_v all_o god_n promise_n of_o temporal_a mercy_n to_o the_o soul_n therein_o come_v to_o be_v love_n to_o the_o soul_n because_o god_n have_v bound_v with_o that_o limitation_n so_o far_o as_o shall_v be_v for_o the_o soul_n own_o good_a and_o advantage_n so_o that_o from_o these_o consideration_n even_o those_o limit_a promise_n prove_v as_o absolute_a as_o all_o the_o other_o promise_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n so_o that_o you_o see_v there_o be_v no_o promise_n belong_v to_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n but_o what_o be_v mere_o grace_n no_o condition_n may_v come_v in_o to_o challenge_v any_o thing_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n prem_n 3._o three_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o all_o those_o promise_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o condition_n in_o soul_n they_o be_v include_v under_o one_o of_o these_o five_o head_n 1._o they_o be_v make_v to_o person_n have_v such_o condition_n in_o they_o as_o put_v they_o into_o a_o case_n of_o want_n and_o poverty_n and_o so_o the_o lord_n propound_v refreshment_n to_o they_o suitable_a to_o their_o want_n and_o poverty_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v the_o promise_v make_v to_o thirsty_a and_o burden_a soul_n 2._o those_o may_v be_v no_o promise_n but_o revelation_n of_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n that_o god_n do_v free_o bestow_v upon_o his_o own_o people_n as_o to_o instance_n in_o those_o promise_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v make_v to_o love_v to_o god_n and_o christ_n john_n 14.21_o he_o that_o love_v i_o shall_v be_v love_v of_o my_o father_n and_o i_o will_v love_v he_o and_o will_v manifest_v myself_o to_o he_o here_o seem_v to_o be_v a_o promise_n make_v to_o love_n whereas_o it_o be_v only_o a_o revelation_n of_o the_o precious_a privilege_n that_o belong_v to_o the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o a_o discovery_n of_o the_o precious_a purpose_n of_o god_n concern_v his_o own_o out_o of_o the_o mere_a disposition_n of_o his_o goodness_n towards_o they_o if_o any_o promise_n shall_v be_v make_v to_o that_o precious_a grace_n of_o love_n methinks_v this_o shall_v it_o run_v every_o way_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o promise_n but_o yet_o hence_o it_o appear_v it_o be_v no_o promise_n make_v to_o love_a christ_n as_o a_o condition_n upon_o which_o the_o promise_n shall_v be_v fulfil_v in_o regard_n that_o disposition_n
do_v go_v before_o the_o act_n of_o any_o other_o holy_a quality_n in_o those_o soul_n faith_n be_v the_o first_o habit_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n though_o not_o in_o time_n that_o be_v infuse_v into_o any_o soul_n it_o do_v also_o in_o order_n of_o nature_n work_n and_o manifest_v itself_o in_o act_v before_o any_o other_o habit_n whatsoever_o and_o therefore_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o that_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o absolute_a promise_n must_v be_v before_o there_o be_v a_o manifestation_n of_o any_o other_o holy_a quality_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n and_o thence_o in_o regard_n this_o particular_a way_n in_o apply_v these_o absolute_a promise_n be_v without_o any_o holy_a quality_n in_o soul_n there_o can_v be_v no_o other_o word_n but_o only_o the_o lord_n absolute_a promise_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n from_o whence_o this_o faith_n can_v arise_v this_o be_v general_o grant_v of_o all_o and_o from_o thence_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o the_o absolute_a general_a promise_n of_o god_n that_o be_v hold_v forth_o as_o make_v unto_o the_o people_n and_o church_n of_o god_n alone_o that_o be_v a_o particular_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n first_o confidence_n or_o adherence_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o that_o the_o general_a absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n do_v speak_v particular_o to_o every_o soul_n who_o attain_v any_o right_a or_o interest_n in_o it_o second_o i_o shall_v answer_v affirmative_o that_o it_o be_v a_o particular_a ground_n of_o faith_n of_o assurance_n or_o a_o particular_a evidence_n to_o assure_v a_o soul_n faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o i_o shall_v open_v in_o two_o conclusion_n conclu_n 1._o the_o absolute_a promise_n be_v sufficient_a to_o reveal_v to_o a_o soul_n faith_n a_o certainty_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o equivalency_n in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n of_o god_n that_o run_v to_o all_o soul_n to_o any_o particular_a promise_n that_o can_v be_v make_v paul_n manifest_v as_o full_a a_o certainty_n of_o his_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v hold_v forth_o to_o he_o in_o the_o absolute_a promise_n as_o if_o he_o have_v have_v a_o particular_a word_n from_o heaven_n say_v thou_o paul_n shall_v be_v accept_v into_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o 1_o tim._n 1.15_o this_o be_v a_o faithful_a say_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n what_o be_v that_o that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n here_o be_v as_o far_o off_o a_o remote_a promise_n as_o can_v be_v that_o jesus_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n what_o then_o of_o who_o i_o be_o chief_a as_o if_o he_o shall_v have_v say_v the_o lord_n christ_n come_v to_o save_v i_o where_o he_o make_v christ_n send_v into_o the_o world_n particular_o to_o save_v his_o soul_n and_o certain_o the_o same_o promise_n be_v able_a to_o give_v the_o soul_n that_o particular_a certainty_n that_o paul_n do_v receive_v do_v the_o same_o light_n appear_v from_o the_o promise_n as_o do_v to_o paul_n but_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o equivalency_n in_o what_o the_o absolute_a promise_n can_v give_v to_o testify_v union_n to_o what_o a_o particular_a promise_n give_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o latitude_n or_o largeness_n and_o extensiveness_n of_o the_o promise_n itself_o the_o promise_n that_o be_v of_o absolute_a mercy_n and_o be_v declare_v to_o be_v the_o absolute_a will_n of_o god_n concern_v his_o people_n soul_n they_o be_v all_o propound_v as_o indefinite_a proposition_n that_o be_v without_o any_o certain_a bound_n in_o that_o promise_n christ_n come_v into_o the_o world_n to_o save_v sinner_n there_o be_v no_o bound_n set_v to_o it_o neither_o this_o kind_n of_o sinner_n or_o that_o kind_a of_o sinner_n such_o as_o be_v thus_o and_o thus_o rebellious_a but_o sinner_n so_o mark_v 16.15_o go_v preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n preach_v the_o gospel_n what_o be_v that_o preach_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o salvation_n it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v have_v say_v go_v and_o tell_v every_o soul_n my_o father_n be_v willing_a to_o accept_v their_o rebellious_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o myself_o and_o unless_o this_o be_v receive_v tender_v the_o gospel_n be_v not_o preach_v exclude_v the_o declare_v of_o god_n will_v to_o every_o particular_a soul_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o you_o exclude_v the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n the_o angel_n luke_n 2.10_o when_o he_o bring_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o jesus_n christ_n say_v i_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n to_o who_o to_o such_o a_o nation_n or_o people_n no_o i_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n to_o all_o people_n there_o be_v no_o other_o bound_n set_v but_o the_o world_n itself_o if_o a_o man_n come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o creature_n he_o come_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o promise_n he_o can_v say_v but_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n if_o he_o will_v embrace_v the_o lord_n christ_n 2._o it_o appear_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o expresness_n of_o the_o command_n to_o every_o soul_n particular_o to_o apply_v the_o promise_n 1_o john_n 3.23_o this_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o again_o this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n now_o believe_v can_v contain_v but_o two_o thing_n either_o a_o give_a credit_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o the_o promise_n hold_v forth_o and_o sure_o this_o can_v be_v mean_v for_o the_o devil_n themselves_o believe_v as_o much_o or_o else_o a_o receive_n unto_o their_o particular_a soul_n what_o the_o lord_n there_o tender_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o if_o you_o observe_v it_o the_o scripture_n phrase_n general_o hold_v forth_o believe_v in_o this_o sense_n thence_o it_o be_v that_o believe_a and_o receive_v in_o scripture_n be_v put_v both_o for_o one_o 1_o john_n 1.12_o now_o that_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o command_n of_o believe_a reach_n thus_o far_o to_o a_o particular_a application_n of_o those_o absolute_a promise_n to_o themselves_o will_v be_v clear_v by_o two_o particular_n 1._o in_o regard_v all_o unbelief_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o it_o be_v virtual_o and_o eminent_o forbid_v in_o this_o command_n of_o believe_v when_o any_o positive_a duty_n be_v enjoin_v by_o god_n the_o contrary_n must_v needs_o be_v forbid_v by_o the_o same_o law_n virtual_o and_o all_o the_o evil_a consequence_n of_o whatever_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o duty_n enjoin_v now_o believe_v be_v enjoin_v virtual_o unbelief_n and_o all_o the_o fruit_n of_o unbelief_n be_v forbid_v the_o fruit_n of_o unbelief_n be_v doubt_v and_o so_o all_o doubt_v of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o fulfil_v his_o promise_n of_o accept_v the_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o be_v content_a and_o willing_a to_o receive_v christ_n into_o union_n with_o he_o all_o this_o doubt_v of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v there_o forbid_a virtual_o in_o regard_n it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o duty_n command_v because_o it_o proceed_v from_o the_o root_n unbelief_n which_o be_v direct_o contrary_a unto_o faith_n 2._o in_o regard_v the_o strength_n of_o faith_n must_v needs_o be_v the_o extent_n of_o the_o command_n the_o soul_n be_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o the_o lord_n as_o a_o thing_n unquestionable_o certain_a that_o the_o lord_n be_v willing_a to_o receive_v his_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n so_o that_o in_o effect_n the_o lord_n do_v in_o that_o command_n to_o the_o soul_n to_o believe_v enjoin_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v fullness_n of_o assurance_n from_o the_o very_a promise_n that_o the_o lord_n be_v willing_a to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n christ_n yet_o do_v not_o mistake_v i_o i_o do_v not_o say_v the_o command_n be_v of_o such_o a_o extent_n that_o it_o do_v express_o command_v every_o one_o to_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v one_o in_o christ_n for_o then_o the_o promise_n shall_v command_v he_o to_o believe_v a_o lie_n in_o regard_n the_o great_a number_n be_v at_o enmity_n but_o the_o extent_n of_o the_o command_n be_v to_o assure_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o lord_n willingness_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n if_o he_o be_v willing_a to_o receive_v he_o and_o this_o the_o lord_n enjoin_v the_o most_o rebellious_a wretch_n wherever_o the_o gospel_n come_v the_o first_o command_n to_o such_o rebellious_a soul_n be_v to_o believe_v that_o god_n be_v willing_a to_o receive_v their_o rebellious_a soul_n into_o union_n
and_o the_o same_o time_n and_o they_o be_v both_o but_o witness_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o help_v the_o soul_n to_o draw_v one_o and_o the_o same_o conclusion_n at_o the_o same_o time_n iii_o there_o be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o true_a inseparable_a effect_n of_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v the_o soul_n behold_v the_o very_a juice_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o precious_a vine_n flow_v down_o into_o his_o soul_n as_o into_o one_o of_o his_o branch_n the_o soul_n find_v the_o same_o grace_n that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n the_o head_n drop_v down_o into_o his_o bosom_n so_o that_o the_o soul_n conclude_v he_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o member_n to_o the_o head_n have_v influence_n from_o it_o now_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v about_o this_o which_o be_v concause_n which_o may_v clear_v up_o to_o our_o understanding_n what_o may_v be_v safe_o hold_v forth_o in_o these_o 1._o that_o none_o of_o these_o neither_o the_o shine_a of_o faith_n nor_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n nor_o the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o union_n be_v concause_n in_o evidence_v unto_o the_o soul_n the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o take_v the_o particular_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n the_o promise_n itself_o afford_v this_o light_n to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o sole_a aid_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o disposition_n inclination_n believe_v qualification_n whatever_o can_v be_v imagine_v 2._o these_o three_o be_v only_a concause_n in_o produce_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o effect_n of_o that_o first_o evidence_n that_o be_v in_o produce_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o conclusion_n of_o his_o own_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o do_v arise_v from_o the_o first_o evidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o take_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n 3._o that_o it_o be_v only_o the_o first_o of_o those_o three_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o shine_v forth_o of_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n that_o be_v proper_o a_o coadjoyn_a cause_n in_o the_o make_n up_o a_o soul_n evidence_n from_o the_o promise_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n those_o two_o latter_a do_v follow_v after_o the_o first_o clear_a evidence_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o promise_n and_o so_o can_v come_v in_o as_o joint_a concause_n to_o make_v up_o the_o evidence_n answ_n 3._o three_o i_o answer_v there_o be_v indeed_o three_o joint_n concur_v cause_n for_o the_o make_n up_o this_o union_n to_o the_o soul_n faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o light_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o witness_n of_o conscience_n take_v the_o witness_n of_o conscience_n only_o for_o a_o experimental_a knowledge_n that_o soul_n do_v receive_v and_o have_v receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n free_o give_v by_o god_n to_o be_v one_o with_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o conscience_n do_v only_o answer_v as_o it_o be_v like_o a_o precious_a echo_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n reveal_v the_o light_n of_o the_o promise_n or_o apply_v the_o promise_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o light_n of_o faith_n show_v the_o soul_n receive_v of_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o voice_n of_o conscience_n consent_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o give_v the_o echo_n to_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o the_o soul_n answ_n 4._o four_o i_o answer_v there_o be_v some_o that_o may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v concause_n or_o join_v concur_v cause_n in_o the_o evidence_n to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n in_o the_o promise_n yet_o they_o be_v all_o but_o subordinate_a cause_n to_o one_o prime_a principal_a cause_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v i_o take_v these_o three_o which_o some_o have_v conceive_v to_o be_v joint_a concur_v cause_n which_o be_v the_o light_n of_o faith_n the_o witness_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o inseparable_a effect_n of_o union_n yet_o all_o these_o come_v in_o a_o way_n of_o subordination_n to_o the_o principal_a efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n as_o you_o may_v see_v if_o you_o look_v upon_o the_o light_n of_o faith_n 1_o cor._n 2.12_o we_o have_v receive_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n but_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v free_o give_v we_o of_o god_n you_o see_v the_o internal_a vision_n or_o internal_a light_n they_o have_v of_o any_o grace_n of_o any_o gift_n be_v by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n put_v upon_o those_o gift_n or_o put_v into_o the_o soul_n to_o discern_v those_o gift_n so_o likewise_o of_o the_o second_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n whatever_o testimony_n conscience_n will_v give_v be_v it_o either_o through_o practical_a or_o experimental_a reason_n draw_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o be_v it_o only_o to_o bear_v witness_n to_o the_o soul_n own_o act_n and_o so_o take_v only_o for_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o believe_v yet_o also_o this_o witness_n of_o conscience_n have_v its_o subordination_n to_o that_o principal_a cause_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n as_o rom._n 9.1_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v say_v to_o bear_v witness_n of_o any_o good_a act_n in_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v say_v to_o be_v through_o the_o spirit_n and_o indeed_o the_o conscience_n be_v altogether_o corrupt_v natural_o the_o habit_n of_o spiritual_a light_n and_o discern_a by_o which_o it_o judge_v be_v only_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n thence_o it_o must_v necessary_o follow_v also_o that_o every_o act_n of_o that_o renew_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v infuse_v into_o the_o conscience_n must_v be_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o out_o of_o all_o question_n the_o act_n of_o every_o habit_n of_o grace_n receive_v do_v as_o well_o depend_v upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n as_o the_o first_o infusion_n of_o it_o into_o the_o soul_n do_v and_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o the_o three_o also_o which_o be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o all_o the_o effect_n of_o union_n that_o come_v under_o that_o in_o 1_o cor._n 2.12_o all_o gift_n all_o gift_n of_o grace_n through_o union_n must_v be_v discern_v through_o the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n in_o the_o heart_n enable_v soul_n to_o discern_v the_o thing_n free_o give_v they_o of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v well_o illustrate_v it_o v._o 11_o compare_v the_o light_n that_o the_o spirit_n which_o they_o have_v receive_v give_v to_o they_o to_o discern_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n to_o the_o light_n of_o conscience_n to_o discern_v what_o be_v in_o man_n what_o man_n know_v the_o thing_n of_o a_o man_n save_o the_o spirit_n of_o man_n which_o be_v in_o he_o even_o so_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n know_v no_o man_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n whereby_o he_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o the_o use_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o same_o for_o the_o discover_n of_o all_o the_o working_n of_o the_o soul_n to_o it_o as_o the_o use_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o a_o man_n be_v to_o discover_v to_o he_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n as_o man_n answ_n 5._o five_o i_o answer_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n alone_o be_v the_o principal_n most_o immediate_a and_o natural_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n of_o the_o promise_n evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n though_o you_o see_v there_o be_v divers_a cause_n that_o may_v afar_o off_o have_v some_o kind_n of_o influence_n yet_o no_o influence_n further_o than_o they_o have_v a_o dependence_n upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n work_v in_o they_o and_o through_o they_o and_o however_o the_o sight_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o testimony_n of_o conscience_n may_v in_o some_o measure_n be_v say_v to_o be_v concause_n yet_o the_o instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n that_o have_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n that_o which_o strike_v the_o first_o and_o last_o stroke_n that_o assure_v the_o soul_n faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o christ_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n alone_o it_o be_v that_o which_o set_v on_o work_v all_o other_o mean_n for_o that_o end_n now_o that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n alone_o be_v this_o principal_a efficient_a instrumental_a cause_n i_o shall_v clear_v to_o you_o by_o some_o demonstration_n i._o it_o appear_v by_o the_o general_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o spirit_n be_v design_v to_o that_o office_n alone_o to_o reveal_v truth_n or_o to_o guide_v soul_n into_o all_o truth_n as_o appear_v john_n 16.43_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v come_v he_o will_v
guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n and_o observe_v why_o for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o but_o whatever_o he_o shall_v hear_v that_o shall_v he_o speak_v he_o shall_v have_v a_o commission_n from_o heaven_n as_o it_o be_v to_o lead_v they_o into_o all_o truth_n now_o in_o this_o guide_n the_o soul_n into_o all_o truth_n there_o be_v two_o office_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v design_v to_o first_o the_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n second_o the_o application_n of_o truth_n make_v know_v first_o the_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o cast_v in_o the_o precious_a principle_n of_o spiritual_a knowledge_n whereby_o the_o soul_n shall_v be_v any_o way_n apprehensive_a of_o any_o truth_n this_o make_v know_v of_o truth_n to_o the_o soul_n consist_v in_o three_o thing_n 1._o in_o the_o communicate_v of_o spiritual_a light_n to_o the_o soul_n or_o in_o give_v the_o soul_n a_o spiritual_a eye_n of_o discern_v we_o be_v all_o like_a poor_a bartimeus_n bear_v blind_a the_o natural_a man_n receive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n for_o they_o be_v foolishness_n to_o he_o neither_o can_v he_o know_v they_o because_o they_o be_v spiritual_o discern_v 1_o cor._n 2.14_o now_o it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n alone_o to_o make_v a_o precious_a eye_n salve_n that_o may_v restore_v spiritual_a sight_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v it_o capable_a of_o discern_a truth_n therefore_o it_o be_v say_v in_o 1_o john_n 5.20_o in_o conversion_n we_o be_v say_v to_o receive_v a_o mind_n to_o know_v he_o that_o be_v a_o disposition_n to_o know_v he_o a_o understanding_n capable_a of_o know_v he_o 2._o the_o spirit_n present_v truth_n to_o that_o spiritual_a eye_n tâ—â—t_n that_o he_o have_v communicate_v therefore_o in_o eph._n 1.17_o the_o apostle_n pray_v for_o a_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n not_o only_o a_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n that_o be_v a_o internal_a spiritual_a habit_n of_o spiritual_a light_n to_o discern_v truth_n but_o a_o spirit_n of_o revelation_n also_o that_o be_v of_o manifest_v the_o truth_n unto_o the_o soul_n 3._o in_o make_v know_v spiritual_a truth_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n remove_v all_o impediment_n that_o do_v prevent_v the_o discern_a of_o truth_n present_v though_o the_o spirit_n give_v eye_n and_z presents_z truth_n there_o may_v be_v such_o impediment_n between_o the_o soul_n eye_n and_o the_o truth_n that_o may_v prevent_v the_o soul_n discern_v there_o may_v be_v some_o film_n or_o some_o corrupt_a humour_n some_o film_n of_o lust_n or_o selfishness_n that_o may_v hinder_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o truth_n second_o the_o spirit_n make_v application_n of_o the_o truth_n know_v the_o first_o truth_n that_o god_n discover_v to_o a_o soul_n which_o be_v his_o own_o sin_n his_o guilt_n and_o danger_n of_o condemnation_n must_v as_o well_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n as_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o john_n 16.8_o the_o office_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v to_o reprove_v or_o convince_v the_o world_n of_o sin_n of_o righteousness_n and_o of_o judgement_n to_o make_v it_o clear_a to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o particular_a man_n that_o there_o be_v a_o judgement_n for_o he_o that_o he_o be_v one_o of_o those_o sinful_a wretch_n that_o believe_v not_o that_o the_o spirit_n also_o must_v make_v this_o application_n will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o equal_a and_o proportionable_a sense_n of_o the_o effect_n of_o sin_n and_o wrath_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n and_o degree_n of_o every_o sinner_n understand_v sin_n and_o wrath_n if_o it_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n alone_o that_o do_v make_v application_n of_o the_o truth_n make_v know_v it_o can_v not_o be_v then_o but_o so_o far_o as_o every_o soul_n do_v understand_v what_o sin_n and_o wrath_n be_v the_o effect_n both_o of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o wrath_n will_v remain_v in_o such_o a_o heart_n but_o alas_o experience_n enough_o teach_v we_o that_o many_o sinner_n that_o have_v large_a knowledge_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o sin_n and_o of_o the_o consequence_n and_o effect_n of_o sin_n which_o be_v wrath_n and_o condemnation_n yet_o have_v not_o the_o knowledge_n of_o this_o effect_n in_o the_o least_o manner_n the_o effect_n be_v two_o condemnation_n in_o the_o soul_n judgement_n horror_n and_o anguish_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o condemnation_n he_o that_o understand_v sin_n right_o in_o the_o least_o degree_n understand_v it_o to_o be_v damnable_a therefore_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v condemnation_n in_o his_o own_o soul_n but_o nothing_o be_v more_o common_a than_o for_o man_n to_o confess_v every_o sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a and_o to_o confess_v themselves_o to_o be_v sinner_n but_o far_o off_o from_o draw_v a_o sentence_n of_o condemnation_n they_o will_v be_v sure_a enough_o of_o the_o conclusion_n though_o they_o conclude_v sin_n to_o be_v damnable_a yet_o they_o will_v not_o conclude_v themselves_o to_o be_v in_o a_o damnable_a condition_n so_o if_o you_o look_v upon_o the_o second_o effect_n that_o follow_v the_o knowledge_n of_o sin_n and_o that_o be_v horror_n and_o sense_n of_o the_o dreadfulness_n of_o that_o condemnation_n though_o it_o may_v be_v sometime_o a_o soul_n go_v so_o far_o as_o almost_o to_o conclude_v itself_o to_o be_v in_o a_o damn_a condition_n yet_o far_o be_v it_o from_o let_v it_o take_v effect_n upon_o his_o heart_n so_o as_o to_o lie_v heavy_a upon_o his_o heart_n as_o a_o intolerable_a burden_n therefore_o it_o be_v plain_a not_o only_o the_o reveal_n of_o the_o truth_n but_o the_o application_n of_o truth_n reveal_v depend_v upon_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n the_o spirit_n must_v say_v here_o be_v thy_o sin_n and_o yonder_o be_v the_o pit_n of_o misery_n before_o a_o man_n can_v apply_v those_o truth_n to_o his_o own_o soul_n 2._o it_o must_v be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o make_v the_o application_n in_o regard_n the_o terror_n and_o horror_n for_o sin_n be_v appropriate_v by_o the_o scripture_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o his_o work_n alone_o whence_o you_o shall_v see_v rom._n 8.16_o fear_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n you_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n again_o to_o fear_v that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n again_o work_v fear_n and_o anguish_n and_o vexation_n of_o soul_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o guilt_n of_o sin_n 2._o the_o spirit_n alone_o must_v be_v the_o principal_a efficient_a cause_n in_o evidence_v to_o the_o soul_n from_o the_o promise_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o spirit_n particular_a and_o peculiar_a office_n that_o it_o be_v appoint_v unto_o by_o jesus_n christ_n the_o spirit_n have_v its_o office_n and_o that_o be_v to_o comfort_n and_o refresh_v the_o soul_n of_o the_o peculiar_a one_o of_o christ_n hence_o the_o name_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o comforter_n john_n 16.17_o now_o this_o be_v the_o peculiar_a office_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n to_o comfort_v those_o that_o be_v the_o the_o member_n of_o jesus_n christ_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o that_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o principal_a instrumental_a efficient_a cause_n in_o reveal_v to_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o promise_n and_o that_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o in_o regard_v the_o word_n of_o promise_n alone_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o consolation_n unto_o the_o soul_n faith_n now_o the_o spirit_n shall_v give_v soul_n but_o small_a comfort_n can_v he_o not_o give_v they_o comfort_n unto_o faith_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n reveal_v the_o everlasting_a inheritance_n to_o be_v they_o everlasting_a union_n and_o communion_n with_o christ_n to_o be_v they_o and_o then_o let_v they_o see_v holiness_n in_o they_o to_o be_v a_o drop_n of_o the_o inheritance_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v feed_v itself_o with_o to_o eternity_n the_o comfort_n be_v but_o small_a 2._o in_o regard_v it_o must_v be_v by_o appropriate_v the_o thing_n promise_v that_o the_o promise_n be_v able_a to_o afford_v any_o consolation_n there_o must_v be_v two_o thing_n for_o the_o soul_n to_o receive_v comfort_n from_o the_o promise_n propriety_n and_o security_n the_o soul_n must_v see_v propriety_n or_o else_o no_o love_n at_o lest_o no_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o heart_n and_o while_o there_o be_v not_o the_o satiate_a of_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v no_o comfort_n comfort_n be_v the_o content_a the_o soul_n have_v in_o behold_v his_o desire_a satisfaction_n now_o whatever_o the_o soul_n see_v it_o satisfi_v not_o till_o it_o have_v a_o propriety_n in_o it_o and_o till_o there_o be_v a_o security_n
neither_o bind_v itself_o in_o order_n nor_o degree_n nor_o be_v express_v to_o the_o life_n of_o it_o in_o the_o soul_n when_o he_o do_v assure_v to_o the_o soul_n faith_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n yet_o the_o spirit_n keep_v its_o constant_a order_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n it_o do_v produce_v in_o the_o soul_n to_o who_o faith_n it_o do_v assure_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o promise_n the_o effect_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v such_o in_o every_o soul_n in_o this_o work_n that_o they_o have_v such_o a_o near_a relation_n to_o the_o assurance_n itself_o that_o the_o soul_n receive_v from_o the_o promise_n that_o those_o effect_n be_v altogether_o unspeakable_a from_o that_o evidence_n of_o assurance_n if_o those_o effect_n perish_v or_o decay_v the_o certainty_n and_o assurance_n the_o soul_n have_v from_o the_o promise_n perish_v and_o decay_v and_o if_o those_o effect_n do_v but_o live_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o evidence_n the_o soul_n have_v from_o the_o promise_n be_v maintain_v they_o live_v together_o and_o die_v together_o now_o these_o effect_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n do_v produce_v in_o every_o soul_n to_o who_o it_o do_v manifest_v his_o union_n with_o christ_n from_o the_o promise_n in_o some_o measure_n or_o degree_n be_v these_o five_o in_o the_o open_n of_o which_o you_o shall_v receive_v the_o positive_a answer_n to_o this_o great_a question_n first_o the_o spirit_n illumination_n second_o the_o spirit_n irradiation_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o soul_n three_o the_o spirit_n conviction_n of_o the_o conscience_n in_o the_o soul_n four_o the_o spirit_n excitation_n or_o stir_v up_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n infuse_v into_o the_o soul_n five_o the_o spirit_n attestation_n or_o witness_v unto_o the_o soul_n the_o spirit_n pass_v the_o determination_n final_o upon_o the_o soul_n whole_a estate_n these_o five_o kind_n of_o effect_n be_v produce_v by_o the_o spirit_n from_o the_o promise_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n first_o the_o manner_n in_o which_o this_o spirit_n work_v be_v by_o the_o illumination_n of_o the_o soul_n illumination_n the_o spirit_n illumination_n you_o shall_v read_v eph._n 1.18_o that_o the_o apostle_n pray_v that_o the_o ephesian_n may_v understand_v the_o hope_n of_o their_o call_v that_o be_v the_o great_a thing_n hope_v for_o in_o their_o call_n and_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n that_o they_o be_v call_v out_o to_o hope_n and_o wait_v for_o his_o prayer_n be_v that_o they_o may_v have_v the_o spirit_n of_o wisdom_n and_o revelation_n to_o what_o end_n that_o the_o eye_n of_o their_o understanding_n be_v enlighten_v they_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o hope_n of_o their_o call_n observe_v it_o the_o very_a first_o spiritual_a work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o this_o end_n be_v for_o spiritual_a enlighten_v of_o the_o soul_n now_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o enlighten_v consist_v in_o three_o thing_n first_o in_o the_o infusion_n of_o great_a degree_n of_o divine_a light_n into_o the_o soul_n second_o in_o the_o removal_n of_o all_o impediment_n from_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o from_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o shall_v prevent_v the_o soul_n see_v or_o discern_v the_o divine_a light_n infuse_v three_o in_o the_o quicken_a or_o stir_v up_o or_o put_v into_o act_n and_o exercise_n the_o habit_n of_o divine_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n have_v infuse_v first_o this_o illumination_n be_v a_o infusion_n of_o great_a degree_n of_o divine_a light_n into_o the_o soul_n light_n infusion_n of_o great_a degree_n of_o divine_a light_n the_o soul_n sit_v altogether_o in_o darkness_n until_o the_o light_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shine_v into_o it_o in_o some_o measure_n eph._n 5.8_o now_o though_o there_o be_v some_o habitual_a divine_a light_n infuse_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n into_o the_o understanding_n of_o every_o soul_n that_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n yet_o there_o be_v after_o union_n a_o continual_a increase_n of_o that_o divine_a light_n and_o therefore_o you_o shall_v see_v eph._n 1.18_o the_o apostle_n pray_v that_o the_o eye_n of_o their_o understanding_n may_v be_v enlighten_v now_o if_o you_o read_v the_o whole_a chapter_n you_o shall_v see_v they_o be_v saint_n that_o be_v enlighten_v already_o so_o that_o this_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n enlighten_v be_v the_o strengthen_n of_o the_o poor_a weak_a feeble_a purblind_a eye_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o as_o we_o partake_v of_o this_o divine_a light_n so_o we_o grow_v up_o unto_o the_o perfect_a day_n till_o we_o be_v like_o jesus_n christ_n himself_o in_o who_o be_v light_a and_o no_o darkness_n at_o all_o the_o second_o thing_n wherein_o this_o work_n consist_v be_v the_o removal_n of_o all_o impediment_n that_o do_v hinder_v the_o exercise_n of_o this_o divine_a light_n sight_n removal_n of_o impediment_n of_o spiritual_a sight_n that_o be_v infuse_v into_o the_o soul_n by_o this_o spiritual_a light_n infuse_v the_o sight_n of_o the_o eye_n may_v be_v strengthen_v and_o yet_o through_o some_o distemper_a humour_n a_o film_n may_v grow_v over_o the_o eye_n that_o it_o be_v able_a to_o discern_v no_o object_n some_o waterish_a humour_n or_o some_o mote_n or_o dust_n may_v prevent_v the_o see_n of_o the_o eye_n there_o may_v be_v some_o film_n of_o corruption_n and_o of_o distemper_n many_o malignant_a humour_n as_o i_o may_v say_v and_o rheum_n that_o may_v gather_v together_o in_o the_o soul_n and_o prevent_v that_o sight_n we_o haâ—â—_n 〈◊〉_d from_o the_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v the_o next_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n after_o the_o infusion_n of_o great_a degree_n of_o divine_a light_n to_o pluck_v out_o of_o the_o soul_n eye_v all_o the_o mote_n to_o take_v off_o all_o the_o film_n that_o may_v hinder_v the_o soul_n spiritual_a sight_n though_o at_o first_o we_o have_v receive_v a_o faculty_n of_o see_v we_o be_v like_o the_o blind_a man_n that_o christ_n cure_v he_o see_v man_n walk_v like_o tree_n we_o see_v the_o promise_n afar_o off_o there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o these_o hellish_a fog_n or_o mist_n or_o beam_n that_o the_o devil_n chief_o labour_v to_o keep_v in_o the_o soul_n spiritual_a eye_n to_o prevent_v the_o soul_n from_o a_o right_a use_n of_o the_o divine_a spiritual_a light_n receive_v and_o both_o these_o must_v be_v remove_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n before_o there_o can_v be_v assurance_n in_o the_o soul_n by_o the_o promise_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v first_o the_o hellish_a mist_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n second_o the_o hellish_a mist_n of_o the_o darkness_n of_o corruption_n first_o there_o be_v the_o hellish_a mist_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n these_o be_v like_o the_o rheum_n that_o distil_v from_o the_o brain_n into_o the_o eye_n whereby_o the_o sight_n be_v prevent_v darkness_n mist_n of_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o the_o hellish_a mist_n of_o darkness_n of_o corruption_n be_v like_o the_o distemper_n of_o melancholy_a or_o choler_n that_o have_v their_o original_n from_o the_o liver_n and_o so_o fume_v into_o the_o soul_n eye_n and_o prevent_v his_o sight_n or_o rather_o the_o first_o be_v like_a to_o a_o false_a colour_a glass_n that_o make_v all_o thing_n look_v of_o the_o same_o colour_n it_o be_v worth_a the_o while_n to_o consider_v of_o these_o principle_n of_o darkness_n i_o shall_v name_v but_o some_o of_o the_o chief_a of_o they_o the_o first_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v that_o the_o lord_n christ_n be_v tender_v to_o no_o soul_n but_o such_o as_o true_o see_v darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o be_v true_o sensible_a of_o their_o want_n of_o christ_n say_v the_o soul_n i_o see_v there_o be_v a_o fullness_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v but_o say_v the_o soul_n it_o be_v only_o to_o such_o as_o have_v a_o sight_n of_o their_o want_n of_o christ_n and_o groan_v heavy_o under_o that_o want_n and_o i_o know_v not_o whether_o ever_o i_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o my_o want_n of_o christ_n alas_o i_o have_v a_o blockish_a heart_n i_o be_o a_o ignorant_a wretch_n i_o have_v a_o blind_a understanding_n i_o dare_v not_o trust_v my_o deceitful_a heart_n i_o fear_v i_o never_o have_v a_o true_a fight_n of_o the_o want_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o i_o dare_v not_o believe_v lest_o i_o shall_v presume_v that_o christ_n be_v tender_v unto_o i_o this_o be_v a_o main_a principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o that_o it_o be_v so_o i_o shall_v make_v appear_v brief_o in_o two_o thing_n 1._o thy_o conceve_v the_o lord_n christ_n be_v tender_v only_o to_o those_o that_o see_v the_o want_n of_o christ_n must_v suppose_v either_o a_o true_a spiritual_a
receive_v he_o tender_v to_o his_o poor_a rebellious_a worthless_a soul_n the_o first_o command_n that_o god_n lay_v upon_o every_o rebel_n be_v to_o accept_v of_o a_o mediator_n god_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n first_o enjoin_v the_o soul_n to_o receive_v jesus_n christ_n tender_v before_o the_o do_v any_o thing_n whatsoever_o before_o the_o send_n up_o one_o sigh_n to_o god_n or_o breathe_v out_o one_o petition_n in_o regard_n the_o lord_n command_v all_o poor_a sinner_n at_o enmity_n with_o he_o to_o come_v near_o to_o he_o only_o through_o a_o mediator_n and_o no_o come_n by_o a_o mediator_n till_o they_o apply_v the_o mediator_n to_o be_v a_o mediator_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v in_o 1_o john_n 3.23_o it_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n who_o he_o have_v send_v and_o so_o again_o john_n 6.29_o this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v on_o who_o he_o have_v send_v as_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o work_n of_o god_n but_o this_o but_o the_o meaning_n be_v that_o this_o be_v the_o prime_n principal_a work_n without_o which_o all_o other_o be_v but_o work_v of_o darkness_n 4._o in_o regard_v the_o lord_n take_v no_o pleasure_n nor_o delight_n in_o the_o person_n of_o any_o sinner_n most_o deject_v and_o plunge_v into_o the_o deep_a gulf_n of_o sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n before_o he_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v to_o his_o soul_n more_o than_o he_o do_v in_o that_o soul_n before_o there_o be_v any_o of_o that_o sorrow_n do_v not_o mistake_v i_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o the_o lord_n do_v as_o much_o abhor_v a_o sinner_n that_o be_v now_o forbear_v the_o act_n of_o his_o enmity_n against_o god_n and_o be_v fall_v to_o cry_v after_o god_n as_o much_o as_o the_o act_n of_o sin_n before_o gradual_o but_o yet_o i_o say_v there_o be_v as_o true_a a_o abhorrence_n in_o the_o bosom_n of_o god_n of_o all_o those_o prayer_n mourning_n and_o tear_n as_o there_o be_v of_o those_o act_n of_o sin_n the_o difference_n be_v only_o in_o degree_n say_v he_o tit._n 1.15_o to_o the_o impure_a all_o thing_n be_v impure_a whilst_o the_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v and_o who_o can_v bring_v a_o clean_a thing_n out_o of_o a_o unclean_a while_o the_o soul_n be_v altogether_o unclean_a it_o be_v impossible_a a_o clean_a desire_n and_o motion_n or_o a_o clean_a tear_n can_v come_v from_o thence_o so_o that_o now_o the_o soul_n be_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o enemy_n as_o a_o rebel_n a_o traitor_n to_o the_o crown_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n whilst_o he_o remain_v a_o refuser_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v though_o he_o be_v bring_v to_o great_a degree_n of_o mourning_n 5._o in_o regard_v the_o near_a proportion_n of_o sorrow_n that_o can_v be_v attain_v unto_o for_o sin_n must_v proceed_v from_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v the_o soul_n can_v never_o discern_v what_o the_o degree_n or_o the_o heinousness_n of_o his_o sin_n be_v till_o he_o behold_v the_o lord_n jesus_n accept_v his_o poor_a despicable_a rebellious_a loveless_a soul_n therefore_o it_o be_v worthy_a your_o observation_n that_o the_o same_o woman_n that_o be_v call_v the_o sinner_n by_o way_n of_o emphasis_n and_o eminency_n luke_n 7.37_o drink_v deep_o of_o the_o cup_n of_o sorrow_n who_o tear_n flow_v forth_o in_o abundance_n that_o she_o can_v wash_v the_o foot_n of_o jesus_n christ_n this_o woman_n sorrow_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o a_o sight_n of_o her_o sin_n before_o her_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v but_o from_o a_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n accept_v such_o a_o despicable_a desperate_a sinner_n as_o she_o be_v the_o depth_n of_o sorrow_n be_v never_o break_v up_o in_o her_o heart_n till_o she_o see_v the_o arm_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n reach_v out_o to_o embrace_v her_o poor_a despicable_a soul_n you_o shall_v see_v it_o plain_a if_o you_o compare_v v._o 37_o 38._o with_o v._n 47_o 48._o the_o whole_a discourse_n between_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o pharisee_n concern_v she_o be_v worth_a our_o observation_n for_o the_o explain_n of_o it_o when_o jesus_n see_v this_o woman_n come_v and_o wash_v his_o foot_n he_o know_v the_o pharisee_n heart_n rise_v against_o she_o because_o she_o be_v a_o sinner_n now_o jesus_n put_v forth_o a_o parable_n or_o similitude_n simon_n say_v he_o there_o be_v two_o debtor_n the_o one_o ought_v five_o hundred_o penny_n and_o the_o other_o fifty_o and_o when_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o pay_v the_o creditor_n frank_o forgive_v they_o both_o tell_v i_o therefore_o which_o of_o they_o will_v love_v he_o most_o simon_n answer_v and_o say_v i_o suppose_v he_o to_o who_o he_o forgive_v most_o say_v he_o thou_o have_v right_o judge_v now_o observe_v it_o when_o jesus_n christ_n have_v open_v to_o the_o pharisee_n this_o parable_n it_o amount_v to_o this_o the_o cause_n of_o her_o mourning_n be_v from_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o lord_n forgive_a her_o for_o she_o love_v much_o and_o he_o say_v unto_o she_o thy_o sin_n be_v forgive_v this_o he_o open_v to_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o her_o sorrow_n that_o she_o see_v jesus_n christ_n have_v exercise_v compassion_n to_o she_o she_o see_v the_o love_n of_o christ_n so_o infinite_a so_o unspeakable_a his_o compassion_n so_o incomprehensible_a that_o though_o she_o have_v be_v such_o a_o desperate_a wretch_n that_o satan_n have_v have_v his_o throne_n in_o her_o heart_n though_o she_o have_v be_v the_o ringleader_n of_o sinner_n in_o a_o city_n yet_o he_o be_v ready_a to_o wash_v her_o forlorn_a soul_n and_o make_v she_o clean_o and_o this_o make_v she_o she_o know_v not_o how_o to_o express_v her_o love_n but_o she_o weep_v so_o that_o the_o cause_n of_o her_o tear_n be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o sense_n of_o her_o sin_n but_o the_o have_v so_o much_o forgive_v she_o so_o it_o be_v observe_v of_o peter_n when_o he_o can_v deny_v christ_n thrice_o and_o forswear_v he_o and_o not_o weep_v when_o christ_n look_v upon_o he_o his_o heart_n melt_v and_o he_o weep_v bitter_o what_o peter_n do_v deny_v i_o what_o i_o that_o leave_v the_o throne_n of_o my_o glory_n to_o stand_v here_o before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n say_v the_o look_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o conception_n of_o peter_n this_o melt_v his_o heart_n the_o six_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v this_o darkness_n principle_n of_o darkness_n that_o it_o be_v very_o dangerous_a for_o any_o soul_n to_o apply_v to_o himself_o the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o soon_o it_o be_v common_o illustrate_v by_o this_o similitude_n if_o a_o chirurgeon_n apply_v some_o heal_a salve_n to_o a_o dangerous_a sore_n before_o the_o corrosive_n have_v have_v their_o proper_a effect_n if_o he_o do_v not_o by_o corrosive_n first_o eat_v out_o all_o the_o dead_a flesh_n and_o by_o tent_n ransack_v the_o wound_n to_o the_o very_a bottom_n though_o the_o wound_v be_v skin_v over_o it_o will_v fester_v and_o rankle_v again_o and_o that_o to_o the_o danger_n of_o the_o patient_n life_n likewise_o faith_n the_o soul_n it_o be_v thus_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o wound_n of_o sin_n if_o any_o spiritual_a physician_n shall_v apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o soon_o to_o the_o soul_n to_o heal_v the_o soul_n wound_n before_o the_o corrosive_n of_o terror_n and_o fear_v and_o horror_n have_v have_v their_o proper_a effect_n upon_o the_o soul_n it_o may_v be_v dangerous_a to_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o soul_n or_o thus_o say_v the_o soul_n there_o may_v be_v nutritive_a nourishment_n to_o several_a patient_n that_o may_v be_v destructive_a to_o some_o sick_a body_n in_o regard_n there_o ought_v first_o to_o be_v some_o purgation_n before_o there_o be_v a_o sutableness_n to_o the_o give_v such_o cordial_a potion_n likewise_o if_o the_o precious_a cordial_n of_o comfort_n that_o be_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o jesus_n christ_n shall_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n before_o there_o have_v be_v the_o bitter_a pill_n of_o terror_n of_o sorrow_n and_o anguish_n and_o horror_n for_o his_o sin_n give_v they_o may_v be_v rather_o destructive_a to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o this_o be_v very_o dangerous_a say_v the_o soul_n to_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n too_o soon_o this_o principle_n of_o darkness_n have_v common_o three_o ground_n or_o three_o foundation_n upon_o which_o it_o stand_v and_o the_o soul_n conceive_v a_o threefold_a foundation_n be_v not_o easy_o shake_v and_o therefore_o conceive_v the_o principle_n to_o be_v very_o firm_a i._o it_o be_v build_v upon_o this_o ground_n that_o all_o divine_n general_o have_v conclude_v that_o it_o be_v dangerous_a to_o apply_v comfort_n to_o afflict_a conscience_n too_o soon_o and_o that_o it_o be_v destructive_a to_o give_v comfort_n before_o the_o soul_n be_v fit_v for_o it_o
and_o indeed_o if_o we_o look_v over_o all_o those_o famous_a man_n as_o calvin_n greenham_n and_o that_o skilful_a physician_n mr._n rogers_n etc._n etc._n not_o one_o of_o a_o thousand_o minister_n but_o we_o may_v extract_v some_o such_o passage_n as_o these_o from_o they_o as_o take_v heed_n you_o apply_v not_o comfort_v too_o soon_o after_o you_o be_v wound_v take_v heed_n you_o take_v not_o away_o the_o corrosive_n and_o apply_v heal_v to_o soon_o if_o you_o take_v away_o the_o tent_n say_v one_o of_o they_o before_o the_o corrupt_a matter_n be_v heal_v it_o will_v heal_v of_o itself_o too_o soon_o and_o break_v out_o most_o dangerous_o thus_o if_o the_o tent_n of_o fear_n and_o horror_n and_o soul-affliction_n for_o sin_n be_v take_v out_o of_o the_o wound_n of_o the_o soul_n too_o soon_o the_o soul_n take_v comfort_n too_o soon_o the_o wound_n will_v be_v ready_a to_o heal_v too_o soon_o and_o so_o will_v either_o break_v out_o more_o dangerous_o or_o else_o it_o will_v be_v the_o everlasting_a death_n of_o the_o soul_n but_o observe_v how_o soul_n mistake_v this_o ground_n in_o conceive_v these_o expression_n to_o be_v sufficient_a ground_n upon_o which_o to_o build_v such_o a_o conclusion_n 1._o the_o meaning_n of_o these_o divine_n in_o give_v these_o caution_n to_o take_v heed_n of_o apply_v comfort_n too_o soon_o be_v only_o this_o that_o such_o as_o deal_v with_o afflict_a conscience_n must_v take_v heed_n they_o do_v not_o too_o ready_o assure_v they_o that_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n in_o jesus_n christ_n belong_v to_o they_o and_o that_o they_o be_v certain_o accept_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n now_o indeed_o these_o comfort_n may_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o soul_n too_o soon_o for_o this_o be_v not_o nor_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o first_o application_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o soul_n the_o very_a first_o act_n in_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o itself_o be_v not_o that_o the_o lord_n christ_n be_v my_o saviour_n and_o that_o he_o have_v redeem_a my_o soul_n and_o purchase_v life_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n for_o i_o thus_o indeed_o a_o soul_n may_v apply_v jesus_n christ_n too_o soon_o but_o the_o first_o application_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o the_o soul_n be_v the_o apply_v the_o lord_n tender_v of_o the_o lord_n christ_n unto_o the_o particular_a soul_n it_o be_v a_o assure_v of_o the_o soul_n from_o what_o it_o behold_v in_o the_o declaration_n of_o the_o will_n of_o god_n from_o his_o word_n that_o it_o be_v his_o will_n to_o receive_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n concern_v he_o that_o he_o do_v embrace_v christ_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o 2._o observe_v that_o it_o be_v upon_o different_a ground_n that_o a_o soul_n do_v receive_v assurance_n unto_o his_o faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o other_o soul_n do_v manifest_v any_o confidence_n that_o the_o soul_n be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v one_o ground_n for_o the_o soul_n own_o apprehension_n that_o the_o promise_n belong_v to_o himself_o and_o it_o be_v upon_o another_o ground_n that_o any_o soul_n may_v apply_v a_o promise_n by_o way_n of_o assure_v the_o soul_n that_o he_o have_v a_o interest_n in_o the_o promise_n this_o will_v appear_v in_o two_o thing_n 1._o the_o ground_n from_o whence_o the_o soul_n receive_v assurance_n to_o his_o own_o faith_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v invisible_a to_o all_o other_o when_o it_o be_v first_o visible_a to_o the_o soul_n itself_o the_o lord_n may_v and_o do_v frequent_o by_o his_o own_o spirit_n so_o open_a the_o very_a secret_n of_o his_o heart_n and_o mind_n unto_o a_o particular_a soul_n and_o his_o willingness_n his_o long_a desire_n to_o accept_v he_o in_o christ_n as_o he_o do_v beget_v yerning_n in_o the_o soul_n to_o christ_n and_o beget_v a_o bless_a close_o between_o christ_n and_o that_o soul_n but_o alas_o no_o other_o eye_n but_o his_o own_o see_v this_o bless_a close_n 2._o those_o ground_n upon_o which_o any_o other_o may_v assure_v a_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n be_v but_o the_o consequence_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o apprehension_n of_o christ_n acceptance_n of_o it_o into_o union_n with_o he_o so_o that_o observe_v if_o the_o spiritual_a physician_n shall_v apply_v comfort_n in_o their_o sense_n to_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v assure_v the_o soul_n of_o his_o present_a interest_n in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n he_o may_v do_v it_o indeed_o too_o soon_o because_o he_o can_v have_v no_o ground_n for_o such_o a_o confidence_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n till_o he_o have_v apply_v jesus_n christ_n in_o particular_a to_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o that_o application_n have_v bring_v forth_o some_o preceious_a fruit_n that_o be_v till_o it_o have_v bring_v forth_o contrition_n and_o godly_a sorrow_n emptiness_n nothingness_n a_o sight_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o sink_v perish_v condition_n till_o it_o have_v bring_v forth_o gasp_v and_o long_v and_o pant_v after_o jesus_n christ_n no_o spiritual_a physician_n have_v any_o ground_n to_o assure_v or_o tell_v the_o soul_n that_o he_o be_v confident_a that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o jesus_n christ_n and_o this_o be_v that_o that_o these_o divine_n call_v comfort_n and_o therefore_o they_o propound_v three_o or_o four_o thing_n as_o necessary_a to_o be_v discern_v by_o every_o spiritual_a physician_n before_o he_o apply_v comfort_n to_o they_o first_o say_v they_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o the_o spiritual_a physician_n behold_v the_o soul_n wound_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o sin_n sensible_a of_o the_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n of_o god_n that_o be_v due_a unto_o his_o sin_n and_o sensible_a of_o the_o unavoidableness_n of_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n second_o say_v they_o it_o be_v necessary_a the_o spiritual_a physician_n shall_v discern_v in_o the_o afflict_a soul_n a_o sincere_a cordial_a upright_a single_a purpose_n and_o intention_n a_o absolute_a resolution_n to_o abandon_v all_o those_o sin_n a_o purpose_n to_o hate_n they_o and_o loath_a and_o abhor_v they_o three_o say_v they_o that_o he_o must_v discern_v a_o sincere_a purpose_n to_o be_v constant_a in_o a_o universal_a way_n of_o obedience_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n to_o receive_v he_o as_o his_o only_a king_n and_o ruler_n and_o governor_n to_o be_v obedient_a to_o his_o will_n alone_o four_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o he_o discern_v earnest_a long_n and_o pant_n and_o breathe_n after_o jesus_n christ_n a_o unsatiable_a thirst_n after_o he_o such_o a_o thirst_n as_o none_o can_v quench_v but_o jesus_n christ_n alone_o such_o a_o thirst_n as_o make_v he_o so_o prize_n jesus_n christ_n that_o if_o all_o the_o world_n be_v turn_v into_o a_o mountain_n of_o gold_n it_o be_v nothing_o to_o he_o in_o respect_n of_o christ_n and_o this_o thirst_n say_v they_o must_v be_v discern_v by_o the_o spiritual_a physician_n to_o be_v only_o after_o the_o impute_a righteousness_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v that_o he_o may_v be_v free_a from_o sin_n and_o have_v the_o pardon_v pass_v from_o heaven_n to_o his_o soul_n and_o have_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n to_o stand_v pure_a and_o clean_a and_o innocent_a before_o god_n and_o then_o say_v they_o the_o spiritual_a physician_n may_v apply_v comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o it_o be_v apparent_a from_o their_o own_o principle_n what_o they_o mean_v by_o caution_v soul_n to_o take_v heed_n they_o do_v not_o apply_v comfort_n to_o afflict_a conscience_n to_o soon_o and_o yet_o further_o these_o divine_n in_o their_o application_n of_o comfort_n also_o acknowledge_v it_o can_v be_v but_o in_o a_o conditional_a way_n that_o any_o one_o can_v lawful_o aver_v to_o a_o soul_n and_o assure_v it_o from_o the_o word_n that_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n belong_v to_o he_o and_o that_o be_v be_v in_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n for_o say_v they_o it_o must_v be_v only_o upon_o this_o condition_n that_o those_o thing_n i_o name_v before_o be_v true_o and_o real_o and_o sincere_o to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o soul_n so_o that_o in_o effect_n there_o be_v no_o comfort_n that_o be_v apply_v by_o they_o unto_o the_o afflict_a conscience_n and_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o see_v not_o any_o safety_n that_o can_v be_v conclude_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o application_n of_o comfort_n in_o this_o way_n unto_o afflict_a conscience_n in_o regard_n it_o must_v rather_o establish_v the_o soul_n upon_o a_o humane_a authority_n than_o a_o divine_a ii_o a_o second_o ground_n of_o this_o principle_n be_v this_o that_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n do_v not_o strait_a way_n belong_v to_o every_o soul_n that_o be_v wound_v and_o terrify_v
and_o afflict_a in_o conscience_n but_o it_o be_v only_o to_o such_o as_o be_v true_o afflict_v that_o be_v such_o who_o heart_n be_v true_o break_v and_o true_o contrite_a isa_n 66.2_o now_o herein_o be_v two_o mistake_n to_o be_v observe_v 1._o that_o though_o it_o shall_v be_v true_a that_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n be_v make_v only_o to_o such_o as_o be_v thus_o break_v and_o contrite_a the_o contrary_a to_o which_o you_o have_v hear_v former_o open_v yet_o first_o the_o tender_a of_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v make_v to_o soul_n that_o have_v not_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o contrition_n nor_o the_o least_o degree_n of_o sorrow_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o lord_n declaration_n of_o his_o will_n to_o receive_v every_o soul_n that_o will_v into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v as_o well_o propound_v to_o soul_n not_o have_v the_o least_o degree_n of_o contrition_n in_o their_o heart_n as_o it_o be_v to_o those_o that_o be_v the_o most_o contrite_a and_o the_o most_o broken_n 2._o if_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n be_v make_v only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v contrite_a yet_o that_o contrition_n can_v proceed_v from_o nothing_o else_o but_o the_o particular_a application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o himself_o all_o fullness_n be_v appoint_v by_o the_o father_n to_o dwell_v in_o christ_n and_o whatever_o grace_n the_o soul_n receive_v must_v be_v a_o influence_n that_o flow_v down_o from_o the_o grace_n of_o jesus_n christ_n iii_o there_o be_v a_o three_o ground_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o it_o be_v for_o the_o glory_n and_o honour_n of_o god_n and_o for_o the_o advantage_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o shall_v lie_v under_o affliction_n of_o conscience_n and_o under_o the_o burden_n of_o his_o sin_n some_o time_n before_o he_o do_v apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n here_o i_o must_v premise_v one_o thing_n and_o that_o be_v that_o the_o glory_n and_o honour_n of_o god_n be_v the_o result_n of_o all_o his_o way_n to_o his_o people_n the_o lord_n be_v the_o fountain_n of_o wisdom_n can_v work_v without_o a_o end_n and_o his_o own_o self_n alone_o that_o be_v the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n be_v the_o high_a end_n therefore_o of_o necessity_n in_o all_o the_o way_n of_o god_n that_o end_n must_v be_v attend_v this_o premise_v i_o answer_v that_o proper_o and_o by_o itself_o the_o soul_n lie_v under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n or_o affliction_n of_o conscience_n for_o sin_n be_v neither_o for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n nor_o for_o the_o soul_n advantage_n it_o be_v ordinary_o conclude_v that_o the_o soul_n lie_v under_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n do_v make_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n 1._o in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o justice_n to_o the_o soul_n say_v the_o soul_n it_o make_v much_o for_o the_o magnify_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n in_o the_o eye_n and_o heart_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v deserve_v according_a to_o justice_n to_o be_v plunge_v into_o the_o everlasting_a pit_n of_o woe_n that_o he_o be_v liable_a to_o all_o the_o dreadful_a torment_n that_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n can_v invent_v against_o such_o a_o curse_a rebel_n for_o break_v such_o a_o righteous_a and_o holy_a law_n and_o it_o magnify_v justice_n also_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o when_o other_o shall_v see_v that_o those_o soul_n do_v acknowledge_v themselves_o that_o they_o do_v expect_v nothing_o according_a to_o the_o strictness_n and_o of_o justice_n but_o everlasting_a wrath_n and_o indignation_n 2._o that_o it_o do_v make_v for_o the_o magnify_n of_o god_n in_o his_o mercy_n say_v they_o it_o make_v mercy_n more_o sweet_a to_o the_o soul_n and_o more_o high_o to_o be_v prize_v by_o it_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n have_v lie_v upon_o the_o soul_n and_o afflict_v the_o conscience_n for_o a_o time_n now_o though_o at_o first_o view_v it_o shall_v seem_v thus_o yet_o proper_o the_o afflict_v the_o soul_n for_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n work_v fear_n and_o terror_n for_o sin_n do_v not_o magnify_v god_n neither_o in_o his_o justice_n nor_o mercy_n first_o it_o do_v not_o magnify_v god_n in_o his_o justice_n proper_o and_o that_o will_v appear_v because_o the_o magnify_n of_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o any_o be_v only_o by_o cause_v it_o clear_o to_o apprehend_v his_o own_o infinite_a worthiness_n to_o lie_v under_o the_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n of_o god_n to_o all_o eternity_n now_o the_o soul_n be_v thus_o make_v apprehensive_a of_o his_o worthiness_n to_o have_v the_o utmost_a justice_n of_o god_n execute_v upon_o he_o only_o through_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v there_o be_v two_o thing_n that_o must_v necessary_o concur_v to_o make_v up_o this_o apprehension_n of_o his_o worthiness_n to_o have_v justice_n execute_v in_o his_o utmost_a indignation_n upon_o he_o and_o so_o consequent_o to_o make_v justice_n to_o be_v sanctify_v in_o any_o soul_n 1._o a_o spiritual_a discern_a to_o behold_v the_o nature_n of_o sin_n now_o this_o must_v be_v receive_v from_o jesus_n christ_n and_o that_o by_o infusion_n of_o influence_n from_o christ_n to_o the_o soul_n by_o virtue_n of_o union_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o soul_n a_o spiritual_a object_n can_v be_v discern_v in_o the_o spirituality_n of_o it_o but_o by_o a_o spiritual_a eye_n now_o both_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n and_o sin_n when_o look_v upon_o aright_o it_o must_v be_v by_o a_o spiritual_a eye_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o apprehend_v such_o a_o object_n 2._o there_o must_v be_v a_o discovery_n of_o the_o dimension_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v the_o height_n length_n and_o breadth_n of_o it_o before_o there_o can_v be_v a_o sanctify_a the_o justice_n of_o god_n in_o the_o heart_n now_o the_o dimension_n of_o sin_n be_v only_o discover_v to_o the_o soul_n through_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n tender_v till_o the_o soul_n see_v the_o right_a object_n against_o who_o sin_n be_v commit_v he_o never_o see_v sin_n in_o the_o heinousness_n and_o abominable_a wickedness_n of_o it_o now_o the_o soul_n never_o apprehend_v god_n aright_o till_o he_o behold_v he_o in_o jesus_n christ_n as_o the_o object_n against_o who_o he_o have_v commit_v all_o his_o wickedness_n so_o that_o the_o aggravation_n of_o a_o soul_n sin_n appear_v only_o from_o the_o right_a apprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n thence_o it_o appear_v it_o do_v not_o make_v for_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n that_o the_o soul_n shall_v lie_v a_o time_n under_o affliction_n of_o conscience_n for_o sin_n in_o regard_n the_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v more_o exalt_v and_o magnify_v in_o the_o heart_n in_o one_o moment_n in_o the_o right_a application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n than_o it_o can_v be_v in_o twenty_o year_n shall_v the_o soul_n lie_v under_o the_o affliction_n of_o conscience_n all_o that_o time_n not_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o himself_o neither_o can_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v more_o magnify_v in_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o in_o case_n the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n lie_v upon_o it_o for_o a_o season_n before_o the_o tender_a of_o jesus_n christ_n more_o than_o it_o can_v by_o the_o application_n of_o that_o tender_a immediate_o as_o soon_o as_o he_o be_v tender_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n be_v magnify_v before_o other_o only_o by_o discover_v before_o they_o his_o thought_n of_o himself_o of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n and_o desert_n according_a to_o justice_n to_o be_v everlasting_o tumble_v up_o and_o down_o in_o the_o gulf_n of_o woe_n and_o misery_n now_o the_o clear_a apprehension_n of_o the_o unspeakableness_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n proceed_v only_o from_o the_o tender_a of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o his_o soul_n second_o hence_o also_o it_o necessary_o follow_v that_o the_o name_n of_o god_n be_v not_o proper_o magnify_v in_o his_o mercy_n in_o the_o soul_n that_o partake_v of_o it_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n work_v upon_o the_o heart_n for_o a_o season_n before_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o the_o soul_n the_o more_o clear_o the_o soul_n apprehend_v its_o own_o wretched_a rebellion_n and_o curse_a treachery_n against_o the_o crown_n of_o the_o lord_n glory_n the_o more_o clear_a be_v the_o lord_n mercy_n manifest_v to_o the_o soul_n now_o this_o be_v make_v more_o apparent_a by_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n to_o himself_o than_o it_o can_v be_v though_o the_o soul_n can_v discern_v the_o dreadful_a everlasting_a burn_n nay_o if_o he_o can_v discern_v by_o a_o sense_n and_o feeling_n the_o justice_n of_o god_n reach_v of_o he_o though_o he_o be_v in_o hell_n for_o a_o season_n and_o shall_v partake_v of_o
degree_n of_o grace_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o concord_n and_o agreement_n in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v attain_v it_o be_v for_o the_o better_n of_o the_o union_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o christian_n have_v particular_a different_a grace_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 12.25_o 26._o second_o it_o it_o necessary_a to_o preserve_v the_o beauty_n and_o comeliness_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o whole_a body_n shall_v be_v so_o compact_v together_o that_o one_o member_n shall_v not_o receive_v all_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o other_o member_n three_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o full_a manifestation_n of_o the_o absolute_a freedom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o manifestation_n of_o all_o his_o grace_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o only_o have_v the_o glory_n of_o his_o free_a love_n in_o dispense_n grace_n to_o who_o he_o please_v but_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o free_a grace_n in_o dispense_n it_o in_o what_o manner_n and_o degree_n he_o please_v 2._o from_o the_o necessity_n of_o different_a degree_n of_o grace_n arise_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o dispensation_n of_o various_a gift_n ii_o the_o second_o distemper_n upon_o which_o this_o principle_n do_v arise_v be_v this_o that_o the_o soul_n do_v conceive_v there_o must_v be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n go_v before_o the_o soul_n attain_v unto_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n christ_n and_o thence_o the_o soul_n seek_v into_o the_o life_n and_o heart_n of_o other_o christian_n and_o measure_n himself_o by_o those_o think_v upon_o a_o sight_n of_o a_o conformity_n in_o himself_o to_o they_o in_o their_o grace_n and_o duty_n he_o may_v then_o proceed_v to_o the_o act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o way_n of_o assurance_n and_o then_o have_v some_o confidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o hence_o so_o long_o as_o the_o soul_n conceive_v a_o defect_n in_o himself_o in_o those_o grace_n he_o behold_v to_o be_v in_o other_o christian_n he_o sit_v down_o discourage_v from_o the_o exercise_n of_o faith_n that_o this_o also_o be_v a_o vile_a principle_n of_o darkness_n must_v be_v also_o make_v appear_v yet_o first_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o i_o must_v premise_v two_o thing_n i._o that_o the_o very_a act_n of_o faith_n in_o a_o way_n of_o full_a assurance_n of_o the_o lord_n accept_v the_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n be_v a_o most_o superlative_a degree_n of_o grace_n ii_o that_o every_o soul_n that_o attain_v unto_o that_o assurance_n of_o faith_n to_o receive_v with_o a_o fullness_n of_o confidence_n the_o lord_n good_a will_n concern_v his_o own_o soul_n to_o accept_v he_o to_o be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v attain_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o all_o kind_n of_o grace_n also_o there_o be_v the_o special_a working_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n in_o the_o spirit_n of_o holiness_n wherever_o there_o be_v this_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n to_o make_v it_o clear_a 1._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o knowledge_n ignorance_n of_o god_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o all_o vice_n the_o very_a womb_n wherein_o unbelief_n be_v conceive_v withal_o its_o brat_n withal_o its_o scruple_n and_o objection_n whatever_o and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o that_o ignorance_n of_o god_n be_v heal_v so_o be_v the_o degree_n of_o the_o soul_n attain_v towards_o the_o assurance_n of_o faith_n 2._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o spiritual_a life_n beget_v in_o the_o soul_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o contentment_n in_o god_n and_o christ_n 4._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o love_n to_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n communicate_v to_o he_o love_n beget_v love_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n wherein_o a_o soul_n apprehend_v the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o his_o soul_n in_o christ_n so_o be_v the_o answerable_a degree_n of_o the_o working_n of_o love_n towards_o god_n in_o christ_n again_o 5._o there_o be_v a_o large_a portion_n of_o raisedness_n of_o spirit_n above_o all_o thing_n below_o i_o give_v but_o a_o taste_n of_o the_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n which_o of_o necessity_n must_v be_v in_o soul_n where_o faith_n of_o assurance_n be_v attain_v but_o now_o to_o speak_v more_o direct_o to_o the_o principle_n itself_o notwithstanding_o this_o yet_o the_o principle_n itself_o be_v a_o dark_a principle_n i._o in_o regard_n there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o a_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n go_v before_o the_o soul_n assurance_n of_o faith_n to_o prepare_v the_o soul_n for_o assurance_n only_o in_o this_o sense_n that_o the_o habit_n of_o grace_n prepare_v the_o soul_n for_o the_o act_n of_o grace_n so_o the_o habit_n of_o faith_n be_v receive_v before_o there_o be_v a_o act_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o a_o soul_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v prepare_v for_o assurance_n unto_o faith_n ii_o there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o any_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n to_o give_v the_o soul_n any_o better_a ground_n to_o act_v faith_n in_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n and_o confidence_n the_o only_a ground_n of_o the_o soul_n confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n be_v the_o lord_n word_n wherein_o he_o reveal_v that_o his_o bless_a will_n now_o the_o lord_n word_n speak_v as_o plain_o and_o reveal_v his_o will_n as_o clear_o to_o the_o soul_n not_o have_v the_o least_o portion_n of_o grace_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n as_o it_o do_v to_o those_o that_o have_v the_o large_a portion_n of_o grace_n iii_o there_o be_v no_o necessity_n of_o any_o portion_n of_o grace_n to_o make_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n of_o assurance_n to_o be_v the_o soul_n duty_n even_o when_o a_o soul_n be_v a_o rebel_n when_o he_o be_v a_o enemy_n the_o lord_n do_v as_o strict_o command_v he_o from_o heaven_n to_o give_v credit_n to_o his_o bless_a word_n reveal_v his_o good_a will_n to_o accept_v his_o loveless_a soul_n if_o he_o will_v be_v one_o with_o he_o in_o christ_n as_o he_o do_v command_v the_o soul_n to_o believe_v it_o after_o the_o communication_n of_o all_o grace_n iv_o those_o very_a portion_n of_o grace_n great_a or_o small_a that_o be_v attain_v to_o when_o the_o soul_n have_v assurance_n unto_o faith_n they_o be_v all_o attain_v through_o the_o soul_n believe_v with_o that_o fullness_n of_o assurance_n faith_n be_v the_o alpha_n and_o omega_n of_o sanctification_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a work_n of_o grace_n the_o six_o and_o last_o dark_a distemper_n be_v distemper_n dark_a distemper_n the_o soul_n unconstancy_n this_o unconstancy_n be_v of_o two_o kind_n the_o one_o in_o the_o thought_n and_o imagination_n the_o second_o be_v the_o unconstancy_n of_o the_o soul_n determination_n and_o conclusion_n natural_o we_o be_v unstable_a as_o water_n seldom_o stay_v a_o moment_n in_o the_o same_o place_n for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o this_o distemper_n there_o must_v be_v divers_a thing_n open_v i._o we_o must_v know_v it_o be_v not_o a_o strict_a close_a unmovable_a adherence_n to_o their_o determination_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v once_o draw_v up_o in_o a_o soul_n that_o these_o command_n require_v from_o any_o soul_n that_o may_v be_v as_o bad_a a_o distemper_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n therefore_o observe_v there_o be_v three_o case_n in_o which_o a_o soul_n may_v be_v too_o much_o settle_v and_o adhere_v too_o fast_o to_o his_o own_o conclusion_n 1._o when_o the_o soul_n stick_v fast_o to_o any_o conclusion_n without_o spiritual_a divine_a light_n compel_v and_o constrain_a the_o soul_n to_o it_o 2._o when_o a_o soul_n be_v so_o take_v with_o any_o determination_n that_o he_o have_v draw_v up_o in_o his_o own_o spirit_n concern_v truth_n that_o his_o own_o spirit_n will_v not_o suffer_v he_o to_o take_v a_o right_a view_n of_o any_o thing_n that_o the_o scripture_n seem_v to_o propound_v to_o the_o contrary_n 3._o when_o a_o soul_n be_v so_o affect_v with_o any_o determination_n draw_v up_o in_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o he_o have_v a_o prejudicial_a opinion_n against_o whatever_o seem_v to_o contradict_v that_o his_o own_o determination_n ii_o you_o must_v know_v there_o be_v case_n wherein_o there_o must_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v alteration_n and_o change_n in_o a_o soul_n own_o determination_n concern_v truth_n and_o concern_v the_o state_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n and_o those_o case_n be_v especial_o two_o 1._o where_o there_o be_v clear_a evidence_n concern_v the_o object_n convey_v into_o a_o soul_n 2._o when_o there_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n itself_o which_o we_o common_o call_v a_o clear_a
when_o he_o look_v out_o of_o his_o own_o bosom_n it_o must_v arise_v only_o from_o that_o mystical_a body_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o mystical_a body_n be_v look_v upon_o but_o as_o one_o with_o one_o single_a eye_n every_o soul_n in_o that_o mystical_a body_n may_v in_o the_o same_o sense_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o the_o delight_n of_o god_n 4._o every_o such_o soul_n as_o shall_v and_o will_v accept_v gospel-discovery_n be_v the_o peculiar_a object_n of_o all_o the_o delight_n and_o contentment_n of_o god_n that_o he_o take_v from_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o result_n of_o the_o mystical_a working_n of_o his_o own_o wisdom_n in_o the_o dispose_n of_o all_o thing_n from_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n to_o its_o final_a dissolution_n it_o be_v the_o property_n of_o god_n to_o reflect_v as_o it_o be_v upon_o the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o attribute_n as_o he_o do_v upon_o the_o whole_a world_n when_o he_o have_v make_v it_o to_o behold_v how_o good_a it_o be_v that_o he_o may_v delight_v himself_o in_o behold_v the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o excellency_n now_o the_o lord_n only_o behold_v the_o result_n of_o the_o admirable_a working_n of_o all_o his_o attribute_n in_o that_o mystical_a body_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o the_o mystical_a body_n only_o be_v the_o object_n of_o his_o delight_n that_o he_o take_v in_o the_o result_n and_o issue_n and_o consequence_n of_o the_o work_n of_o all_o his_o attribute_n now_o the_o spirit_n may_v and_o do_v reveal_v from_o hence_o that_o there_o be_v firm_a engagement_n lay_v upon_o god_n himself_o to_o fulfil_v whatever_o the_o gospel_n discover_v to_o every_o soul_n that_o shall_v embrace_v he_o i._o hence_o god_n be_v engage_v by_o his_o express_a love_n to_o the_o content_a and_o satisfaction_n of_o his_o soul_n to_o let_v out_o his_o love_n in_o the_o most_o absolute_a complete_a perfect_a divine_a unspeakable_a working_n of_o it_o to_o every_o loveless_a sinner_n that_o do_v embrace_v and_o accept_v gospel-discovery_n so_o that_o from_o hence_o consequent_o the_o lord_n stand_v engage_v first_o to_o let_v out_o his_o love_n to_o work_v free_o with_o out_o motive_n incentive_a or_o argument_n incline_v his_o love_n to_o work_v towards_o every_o such_o soul_n embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n the_o freedom_n of_o the_o work_n of_o his_o love_n towards_o soul_n be_v one_o of_o the_o divine_a glorious_a perfection_n of_o love_n and_o shall_v that_o be_v want_v some_o degree_n of_o the_o lord_n own_o delight_n and_o contentment_n that_o he_o have_v resolve_v to_o receive_v from_o every_o such_o soul_n to_o himself_o must_v also_o be_v want_v second_o thence_o the_o lord_n stand_v engage_v to_o let_v out_o his_o love_n wonderful_o beyond_o the_o comprehension_n of_o man_n and_o angel_n three_o thence_o he_o be_v engage_v to_o let_v out_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o love_n to_o such_o soul_n as_o shall_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n full_o and_o 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his_o forlorn_a loveless_n soul_n into_o those_o everlasting_a arm_n of_o love_n because_o of_o the_o abominable_a perverseness_n and_o crookedness_n of_o his_o heart_n against_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n 3._o hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v give_v security_n to_o any_o waver_a soul_n who_o hand_n as_o it_o be_v shake_v and_o quiver_n and_o dare_v not_o with_o any_o confidence_n grasp_v the_o bless_a tender_a of_o union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o lord_n through_o christ_n because_o of_o his_o wretched_a abuse_n of_o the_o precious_a work_n of_o the_o lord_n love_v towards_o he_o in_o christ_n already_o ii_o hence_o also_o the_o spirit_n may_v reveal_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o the_o same_o dear_a love_n to_o his_o own_o delight_n and_o satisfaction_n to_o dispose_v every_o soul_n that_o shall_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n into_o a_o capacity_n for_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o near_a most_o absolute_a entire_a communion_n with_o himself_o under_o this_o particular_a the_o 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elevate_v and_o enlarge_v the_o faculty_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v to_o receive_v those_o communication_n and_o influence_n from_o god_n now_o what_o abundant_a security_n may_v the_o spirit_n give_v to_o any_o soul_n that_o tremble_v to_o embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n against_o fear_n 1._o what_o security_n may_v the_o spirit_n give_v to_o soul_n fear_v to_o give_v credit_n to_o those_o gospel_n discovery_n because_o of_o the_o averseness_n and_o contrariety_n of_o their_o spirit_n unto_o communion_n with_o god_n hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v say_v to_o every_o soul_n without_o exception_n that_o shall_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n it_o be_v a_o choose_a object_n of_o the_o high_a eternal_a delight_n of_o god_n in_o the_o communication_n of_o his_o goodness_n 2._o hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v give_v full_a security_n unto_o the_o soul_n against_o all_o fear_n because_o of_o the_o unstableness_n and_o fickleness_n of_o his_o heart_n in_o any_o degree_n of_o communion_n once_o attain_v 3._o hence_o the_o spirit_n may_v give_v security_n fear_v that_o the_o gospel_n discovery_n may_v not_o be_v grasp_v and_o embrace_v by_o the_o soul_n because_o of_o the_o straitness_n and_o narrowness_n of_o his_o heart_n void_a of_o all_o thirstings_n and_o long_n yea_o of_o all_o desire_n the_o spirit_n may_v hence_o declare_v the_o lord_n to_o be_v engage_v by_o his_o love_n to_o the_o pleasure_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n to_o enlarge_v every_o such_o heart_n to_o a_o kind_n of_o infinite_a capacity_n for_o communion_n iii_o thence_o the_o lord_n be_v engage_v by_o his_o infinite_a valuation_n and_o estimation_n of_o the_o delightful_a contemplation_n of_o his_o own_o transcendent_a excellency_n as_o they_o sparkle_v forth_o from_o the_o creature_n to_o effect_v the_o near_a most_o entire_a union_n of_o likeness_n that_o be_v possible_a between_o himself_o and_o every_o such_o sinner_n that_o shall_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n the_o lord_n stand_v engage_v by_o this_o to_o make_v every_o such_o soul_n a_o partaker_n of_o his_o own_o spotless_a purity_n and_o holiness_n yea_o to_o make_v it_o participate_v of_o his_o divine_a nature_n of_o his_o own_o life_n so_o as_o the_o same_o life_n that_o dwell_v in_o himself_o and_o that_o himself_o live_v by_o shall_v also_o dwell_v in_o every_o such_o sinful_a soul_n embrace_v those_o gospel_n discovery_n nay_o the_o engagement_n be_v so_o invincible_a that_o if_o the_o lord_n shall_v not_o communicate_v the_o high_a degree_n of_o his_o communicable_a perfection_n to_o every_o such_o loveless_n forlorn_a sinner_n as_o shall_v and_o will_v embrace_v gospel_n discovery_n he_o shall_v bereave_v himself_o of_o that_o sweet_a pleasure_n and_o contentment_n that_o his_o soul_n take_v in_o the_o contemplation_n of_o the_o beam_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n see_v every_o such_o soul_n be_v the_o choose_a object_n in_o who_o the_o lord_n determin_n from_o eternity_n to_o delight_v himself_o by_o the_o
union_n and_o communion_n with_o the_o father_n through_o christ_n the_o soul_n do_v not_o only_o possess_v union_n and_o communion_n but_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o it_o the_o sweet_a and_o comfort_n of_o it_o and_o that_o be_v the_o fruition_n of_o union_n and_o communion_n now_o the_o union_n of_o soul_n with_o the_o father_n through_o christ_n be_v the_o most_o proper_a object_n of_o all_o the_o devil_n envy_v and_o malice_n 5._o the_o very_a first-born_a power_n of_o his_o malice_n work_v against_o the_o believer_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n in_o regard_n believer_n through_o their_o enjoyment_n of_o that_o evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n do_v hold_v forth_o the_o most_o orient_a brightness_n of_o the_o lord_n grace_n &_o love_n in_o christ_n now_o the_o lord_n peculiar_a delight_n be_v in_o receive_v the_o honour_n of_o his_o love_n from_o poor_a despicable_a worm_n thence_o the_o devil_n malice_n work_v infinite_o against_o the_o soul_n receive_v evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n because_o it_o work_v infinite_o against_o the_o lord_n receive_v his_o own_o intend_a glory_n second_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o all_o the_o most_o profound_a policy_n subtlety_n and_o craft_n of_o all_o the_o prince_n and_o ruler_n of_o the_o region_n of_o darkness_n be_v employ_v in_o that_o most_o curse_a insinuation_n to_o a_o believe_a soul_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v either_o to_o faith_n or_o sense_n be_v but_o a_o diabolical_a delusion_n the_o policy_n of_o hell_n all_o concur_v together_o in_o its_o strength_n in_o this_o temptation_n or_o insinuation_n to_o a_o believe_a soul_n that_o his_o evidence_n be_v but_o a_o delusion_n i._o in_o regard_n by_o the_o devil_n prevail_v in_o this_o temptation_n he_o lead_v the_o soul_n in_o the_o most_o extricable_a labyrinth_n that_o there_o be_v no_o possibility_n by_o all_o the_o diligence_n the_o soul_n can_v use_v to_o evade_v or_o escape_v and_o find_v the_o way_n out_o the_o soul_n once_o pass_v a_o sentence_n against_o his_o own_o evidence_n that_o it_o be_v nothing_o but_o a_o fancy_n or_o a_o hellish_a delusion_n he_o be_v lose_v in_o a_o wood_n as_o it_o be_v of_o fear_n and_o perplexity_n of_o question_n and_o scruple_n he_o be_v then_o catch_v indeed_o in_o the_o devil_n thicket_n in_o the_o briar_n that_o be_v of_o hell_n own_o plant_n there_o be_v nothing_o then_o leave_v to_o clear_v the_o soul_n way_n i_o mean_v if_o the_o actual_a evidence_n of_o that_o soul_n union_n be_v suspend_v until_o a_o renew_a actual_a evidence_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n come_v to_o the_o soul_n there_o be_v no_o way_n leave_v for_o the_o soul_n wherein_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o it_o to_o make_v a_o trial_n of_o his_o own_o estate_n the_o soul_n can_v make_v no_o proof_n from_o the_o light_n of_o his_o own_o grace_n that_o light_n must_v be_v suppose_v to_o have_v be_v discover_v to_o the_o soul_n in_o its_o union_n receive_v that_o be_v reject_v no_o other_o light_n can_v manifest_v grace_n to_o be_v in_o the_o soul_n ii_o in_o regard_v the_o prevail_a in_o this_o temptation_n grieve_v the_o very_a comforter_n himself_o it_o weary_v the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n who_o office_n be_v thus_o to_o reveal_v to_o the_o lord_n its_o acceptance_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n it_o cause_v the_o soul_n to_o make_v a_o direct_a opposition_n against_o the_o bless_a comforter_n so_o that_o now_o in_o the_o devil_n prevail_v in_o this_o insinuation_n he_o noâ—_n only_o leave_v the_o soul_n in_o a_o most_o inextricable_a labyrinth_n but_o provoke_v the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o withdraw_v himself_o and_o to_o withhold_v all_o renew_a beam_n of_o light_n from_o that_o believe_a soul_n 3._o in_o regard_v the_o prevail_a of_o that_o temptation_n will_v bereave_v the_o soul_n at_o least_o of_o the_o fruition_n and_o benefit_n of_o all_o that_o be_v pass_v over_o to_o the_o soul_n in_o christ_n if_o that_o temptation_n take_v hold_v upon_o the_o spirit_n that_o the_o soul_n draw_v that_o conclusion_n that_o his_o evidence_n be_v a_o delusion_n than_o all_o the_o boldness_n and_o freedom_n of_o access_n to_o the_o throne_n of_o grace_n for_o supply_v be_v vanish_v in_o a_o moment_n in_o a_o word_n by_o the_o prevail_a of_o this_o the_o devil_n in_o a_o manner_n snatch_v the_o believe_a soul_n from_o among_o the_o number_n of_o the_o friend_n of_o the_o almighty_a and_o set_v he_o among_o the_o poor_a stranger_n by_o the_o prevail_a of_o this_o he_o snatch_v the_o believe_a soul_n from_o among_o the_o vessel_n of_o honour_n i_o mean_v in_o the_o soul_n apprehension_n and_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o soul_n enjoyment_n and_o place_n it_o among_o the_o vessel_n of_o dishonour_n it_o make_v the_o the_o soul_n disclaim_v all_o interest_n right_a and_o title_n to_o any_o mercy_n and_o love_n 4._o in_o regard_v the_o prevail_a of_o this_o insinuation_n with_o the_o believe_a soul_n do_v reduce_v or_o bring_v back_o the_o believe_a soul_n and_o make_v it_o liable_a and_o subject_a to_o the_o power_n and_o force_v of_o all_o other_o curse_a insinuation_n from_o the_o devil_n the_o prevail_a of_o this_o suggestion_n bring_v the_o soul_n under_o the_o force_n of_o all_o those_o temptation_n that_o his_o soul_n be_v former_o deliver_v from_o all_o the_o temptation_n ground_v upon_o the_o soul_n unworthiness_n all_o that_o be_v ground_v upon_o the_o soul_n long_a continuance_n in_o sin_n pre._n 3._o three_o every_o believe_a soul_n that_o have_v receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n to_o faith_n and_o sense_n must_v expect_v all_o the_o rage_n power_n and_o strength_n that_o satan_n can_v afford_v to_o be_v employ_v against_o the_o soul_n to_o darken_v and_o obscure_v that_o evidence_n 1._o all_o the_o powet_n of_o hell_n be_v employ_v to_o suggest_v false_a reason_n carnal_a sensual_a argument_n into_o the_o mind_n of_o that_o believe_a soul_n 2._o all_o the_o power_n in_o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n of_o that_o believe_a soul_n be_v and_o will_v be_v employ_v to_o accomplish_v that_o design_n to_o persuade_v the_o believe_a soul_n that_o the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n receive_v be_v but_o a_o diabolical_a delusion_n his_o power_n in_o the_o corrupt_a conscience_n will_v be_v employ_v to_o edify_v and_o stir_v it_o up_o to_o bring_v in_o false_a accusation_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n 3._o his_o whole_a power_n and_o strength_n will_v be_v employ_v in_o stir_v up_o passion_n and_o disorder_a tumultuous_a affection_n in_o that_o believe_a soul_n any_o believe_v of_o fear_n and_o terror_n the_o devil_n will_v foment_n and_o nourish_v and_o by_o his_o mighty_a power_n over_o those_o passion_n and_o affection_n make_v such_o a_o confusion_n and_o tumult_n as_o if_o the_o soul_n and_o hell_n be_v to_o come_v together_o immediate_o the_o devil_n will_v employ_v his_o power_n over_o the_o affection_n themselves_o and_o his_o power_n upon_o the_o humour_n of_o the_o body_n through_o which_o those_o passion_n and_o affection_n work_v the_o devil_n upon_o the_o very_a suggestion_n that_o the_o soul_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v a_o delusion_n will_v exercise_v his_o power_n so_o upon_o the_o humour_n of_o the_o body_n as_o to_o dispose_v the_o body_n to_o a_o timorous_a tremble_a it_o may_v be_v almost_o every_o joint_a shake_n upon_o the_o imagination_n it_o may_v be_v delude_v and_o then_o nourish_v and_o augment_v by_o bring_v in_o renew_a accusation_n upon_o accusation_n against_o a_o believe_a soul_n so_o that_o all_o the_o false_a reason_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o false_a accusation_n of_o the_o conscience_n have_v a_o more_o power_n upon_o the_o soul_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o disposition_n of_o the_o body_n and_o the_o work_n of_o the_o affection_n four_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o all_o the_o utmost_a power_n and_o possibility_n of_o corruption_n that_o remain_v in_o a_o true_a believer_n be_v ready_a to_o comply_v with_o and_o second_v the_o devil_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o malice_n policy_n and_o power_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n to_o receive_v that_o curse_a suggestion_n of_o hell_n that_o his_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n receive_v be_v but_o a_o delusion_n wretched_a man_n in_o his_o first_o transgression_n join_v a_o curse_a amity_n with_o the_o devil_n himself_o and_o ever_o since_o man_n heart_n have_v set_v at_o the_o devil_n council_n table_n join_v all_o the_o strength_n of_o its_o policy_n and_o power_n with_o that_o infernal_a spirit_n to_o maintain_v his_o tyranny_n over_o the_o poor_a soul_n that_o whatever_o hellbred_a design_n the_o devil_n act_v against_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o heart_n do_v immediate_o comply_v with_o that_o hellish_a design_n and_o though_o indeed_o man_n corrupt_a heart_n be_v ready_a to_o comply_v with_o every_o motion_n and_o
lord_n confer_v temporal_a blessing_n upon_o it_o and_o he_o pry_v into_o the_o understanding_n to_o discern_v what_o judgement_n it_o pass_v upon_o the_o lord_n withdraw_v temporal_a blessing_n and_o inflict_v sore_a evil_n and_o according_a to_o ordinary_a and_o common_a conception_n of_o the_o understanding_n upon_o such_o providence_n of_o god_n he_o may_v also_o propound_v his_o lie_a argument_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n thence_o it_o be_v you_o shall_v observe_v that_o the_o devil_n take_v much_o advantage_n to_o confirm_v some_o poor_a ignorant_a one_o in_o their_o soul-deluding_a confidence_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o union_n and_o reconciliation_n with_o god_n from_o the_o constant_a influence_n of_o all_o temporal_a blessing_n in_o their_o bosom_n and_o thence_o it_o be_v that_o other_o soul_n he_o confirm_v in_o their_o soul_n kill_v hope_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n from_o the_o multitude_n of_o cross_n and_o 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some_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n thence_o it_o appear_v that_o a_o just_a and_o impartial_a a_o righteous_a examination_n of_o the_o evidence_n that_o the_o soul_n have_v receive_v of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n can_v only_o be_v take_v while_o those_o evidence_n do_v actual_o continue_v in_o their_o clearness_n and_o power_n for_o the_o further_a clear_v of_o this_o take_v these_o two_o reason_n i._o in_o regard_n then_o only_o the_o soul_n be_v suitable_o dispose_v to_o take_v the_o examination_n that_o will_v appear_v in_o divers_a particular_n 1._o it_o be_v only_o then_o when_o the_o evidence_n unto_o a_o soul_n of_o his_o union_n do_v actual_o remain_v that_o the_o understanding_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v enlighten_v by_o the_o bless_a spirit_n and_o enable_v to_o conceive_v of_o and_o
then_o doleful_a weakness_n yea_o abhor_a wickedness_n in_o any_o soul_n to_o cast_v off_o all_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n admission_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n though_o the_o oratory_n light_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n or_o the_o superadded_a light_n to_o the_o word_n that_o cause_v the_o word_n to_o give_v so_o clear_a and_o satisfy_v a_o testimony_n unto_o faith_n of_o its_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n be_v withdraw_v and_o suspend_v yet_o there_o be_v a_o heavenly_a shine_a burn_a lamp_n of_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n that_o stand_v constant_o shine_v to_o discover_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n the_o open_a bosom_n of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o his_o outstretch_a arm_n ready_a to_o grasp_v the_o soul_n into_o the_o near_a union_n therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v dreadful_a horrid_a wickedness_n for_o any_o soul_n to_o neglect_v slight_a undervalue_n or_o disregard_n the_o light_n of_o that_o precious_a write_a word_n because_o those_o heavenly_a beam_n of_o superadded_a light_n that_o the_o spirit_n sometime_o give_v be_v by_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o through_o the_o occasion_n of_o the_o soul_n own_o iniquity_n sometime_o suspend_v the_o command_n of_o believe_v stand_v as_o a_o everlasting_a command_n found_v and_o build_v upon_o the_o mere_a write_a word_n make_v a_o precious_a discovery_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v every_o lose_v perish_v soul_n that_o will_v to_o be_v reconcile_v 1_o john_n 3.23_o now_o thence_o it_o be_v most_o wretched_a disobedience_n in_o any_o soul_n when_o he_o have_v lose_v that_o glorious_a light_n of_o manifestation_n from_o the_o spirit_n to_o disobey_v that_o precious_a heavenly_a command_n also_o prop._n 2._o second_o whenever_o any_o soul_n subject_n himself_o to_o the_o principle_n of_o darkness_n and_o unbelief_n that_o still_o dwell_v in_o he_o upon_o the_o lord_n withdraw_v the_o brightness_n and_o glory_n of_o that_o satisfy_a light_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o do_v evidence_n unto_o the_o soul_n his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o cast_v off_o his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n admission_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o christ_n than_o the_o soul_n be_v uncapable_a while_o he_o so_o remain_v of_o make_v any_o precious_a holy_a use_n of_o those_o former_a evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n enjoy_v of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n 1._o in_o regard_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v there_o can_v be_v no_o holy_a conception_n of_o the_o evidence_n that_o his_o soul_n do_v former_o enjoy_v first_o take_v holiness_n for_o all_o kind_n of_o strictness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o lord_n bless_a will_n and_o in_o that_o sense_n there_o can_v be_v no_o righteous_a conception_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n the_o soul_n can_v understand_v they_o what_o they_o be_v nor_o discern_v they_o as_o they_o be_v second_o take_v holiness_n effective_o for_o these_o conception_n that_o do_v excite_v and_o quicken_v a_o believe_a soul_n unto_o holy_a act_n and_o in_o that_o sense_n there_o can_v be_v no_o holy_a conception_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v all_o such_o conception_n or_o apprehension_n of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n towards_o we_o be_v as_o holy_a effective_o that_o be_v that_o produce_v or_o quicken_v a_o soul_n to_o holiness_n be_v such_o as_o do_v apprehend_v some_o beam_n of_o excellency_n shine_v forth_o from_o those_o way_n of_o god_n in_o relation_n to_o that_o particular_a soul_n good_a now_o while_o a_o soul_n cast_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o admit_v he_o into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n he_o can_v conceive_v of_o his_o former_a evidence_n in_o such_o a_o manner_n as_o to_o conceive_v any_o beam_n of_o excellency_n shine_v forth_o from_o god_n in_o relation_n to_o his_o particular_a soul_n 2._o while_o any_o heart_n so_o remain_v he_o be_v uncapable_a of_o make_v a_o holy_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n in_o regard_n the_o activity_n of_o all_o holy_a affection_n whatever_o depend_v upon_o the_o activity_n of_o that_o believe_a disposition_n they_o live_v and_o die_v together_o the_o move_a principle_n that_o move_v holy_a affection_n objective_o be_v the_o believe_a conception_n and_o apprehension_n of_o god_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o lord_n will_v to_o receive_v the_o poor_a loveless_a soul_n to_o be_v reconcile_v to_o he_o through_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n and_o therefore_o while_o a_o soul_n cast_v off_o all_o his_o confidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v to_o admit_v his_o soul_n to_o be_v one_o with_o jesus_n christ_n there_o be_v a_o defect_n of_o move_a principle_n to_o move_v the_o affection_n to_o their_o exercise_n and_o so_o consequent_o there_o can_v be_v no_o activity_n of_o any_o precious_a holy_a affection_n 3._o in_o regard_v all_o the_o ordinance_n that_o shall_v excite_v and_o quicken_v the_o heart_n to_o the_o holy_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n be_v make_v useless_a while_o the_o soul_n enslave_v himself_o to_o carnal_a reason_n through_o unbelief_n not_o believe_v god_n will_v to_o make_v he_o one_o with_o jesus_n christ_n though_o the_o gospel_n shall_v be_v preach_v by_o the_o mouth_n of_o angel_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v send_v from_o heaven_n to_o be_v mouth_n to_o those_o soul_n in_o prayer_n yet_o those_o ordinance_n can_v have_v no_o operation_n upon_o those_o soul_n say_v the_o apostle_n heb._n 4.2_o the_o word_n that_o be_v preach_v profit_v not_o because_o it_o be_v not_o mix_v with_o faith_n in_o they_o that_o hear_v it_o if_o there_o be_v not_o some_o degree_n of_o confidence_n in_o that_o great_a and_o grand_a gospel-truth_n to_o the_o particular_a soul_n there_o can_v be_v no_o mix_v faith_n with_o any_o other_o gospel-truth_n that_o shall_v be_v preach_v so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o have_v a_o precious_a efficacy_n upon_o the_o heart_n 4._o when_o any_o heart_n yield_v up_o himself_o captive_a to_o unbelieving_a reason_n and_o so_o cast_v off_o all_o that_o his_o precious_a confidence_n it_o can_v make_v a_o believe_a use_n of_o his_o former_a evidence_n of_o union_n with_o christ_n in_o regard_n there_o be_v a_o continual_a decrease_n in_o all_o holiness_n and_o increase_v in_o all_o the_o work_n of_o corruption_n while_o the_o soul_n so_o remain_v the_o heart_n be_v so_o natural_o active_a that_o it_o will_v be_v spend_v its_o strength_n in_o some_o kind_n of_o activity_n or_o other_o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o holy_a act_n of_o the_o forename_a precious_a confidence_n be_v seal_v the_o heart_n will_v spend_v all_o its_o strength_n in_o corrupt_a working_n when_o the_o heavenly_a plant_n of_o faith_n do_v not_o grow_v and_o flourish_v in_o the_o soul_n the_o weed_n that_o come_v from_o the_o devil_n garden_n will_v be_v all_o flourish_a hardness_n indisposition_n for_o god_n hard_a thought_n of_o god_n will_v all_o be_v augment_v daily_o prop._n 3._o three_o no_o soul_n ought_v to_o entertain_v such_o a_o superlative_a conceit_n of_o the_o use_n of_o those_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o former_o receive_v that_o he_o shall_v make_v those_o his_o evidence_n the_o sole_a or_o the_o primary_n or_o the_o principal_a prop_n or_o pillar_n whereupon_o he_o build_v his_o confidence_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v admit_v his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n the_o utmost_a use_n intend_v by_o god_n that_o believe_v soul_n shall_v make_v of_o former_a evidence_n receive_v can_v be_v but_o strengthning_n and_o encouragement_n to_o renew_v the_o strength_n of_o their_o confidence_n in_o his_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n to_o fulfil_v his_o bless_a word_n unto_o their_o soul_n it_o be_v utter_o strange_a from_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n that_o soul_n shall_v make_v any_o one_o act_n of_o god_n towards_o or_o in_o the_o soul_n the_o principal_a pillar_n rock_n and_o foundation_n whereupon_o to_o build_v its_o hope_n of_o his_o union_n with_o jesus_n christ_n all_o those_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n whether_o by_o way_n of_o light_n and_o manifestation_n or_o by_o way_n of_o infusion_n of_o holiness_n they_o be_v mere_o arbitrary_a except_v only_o the_o spirit_n constant_a influence_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o life_n of_o a_o believe_a soul_n and_o consequent_o changeable_a and_o various_a according_a as_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n of_o heaven_n do_v see_v suitable_a for_o the_o estate_n of_o various_a soul_n but_o now_o the_o lord_n out_o of_o that_o transcendent_a riches_n of_o his_o love_n in_o christ_n have_v prepare_v unchangeable_a rock_n where_o the_o prime_a anchor_n of_o believe_a soul_n hope_v shall_v be_v fasten_v unmoving_a pillar_n that_o never_o shake_v whereupon_o the_o foundation_n of_o their_o confidence_n must_v be_v lay_v according_a
principle_n of_o darkness_n there_o be_v first_o something_o to_o be_v premise_v first_o that_o the_o soul_n understand_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o comfort_n second_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o apply_v comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n by_o comfort_n be_v mean_v only_o that_o strength_n and_o that_o life_n and_o refreshment_n that_o a_o soul_n receive_v from_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o good_a of_o any_o object_n and_o to_o apply_v the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n be_v to_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n with_o all_o his_o glorious_a privilege_n that_o be_v suitable_a for_o the_o poor_a needy_a despicable_a loveless_n soul_n according_a as_o god_n the_o father_n tender_v he_o to_o the_o soul_n to_o speak_v more_o plain_o to_o receive_v the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o he_o be_v offer_v free_o to_o be_v give_v by_o god_n to_o the_o poor_a despicable_a soul_n to_o make_v up_o a_o league_n and_o amity_n and_o love_n between_o the_o father_n and_o the_o soul_n to_o break_v in_o 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their_o own_o nature_n do_v empty_a the_o soul_n of_o itself_o and_o all_o self-confidence_n in_o regard_n it_o remove_v the_o soul_n from_o all_o imaginary_a dependence_n upon_o its_o self_n either_o for_o comfort_n here_o or_o for_o mercy_n and_o happiness_n to_o eternity_n the_o soul_n perfect_a nothingness_n in_o itself_o be_v only_o by_o behold_v the_o lord_n jesus_n as_o the_o father_n have_v give_v he_o to_o the_o soul_n therefore_o it_o be_v say_v in_o 1_o john_n 3.2_o 3._o we_o know_v not_o yet_o what_o we_o shall_v be_v but_o then_o we_o shall_v be_v like_o he_o for_o we_o shall_v know_v he_o as_o he_o be_v and_o eph._n 3.19_o the_o apostle_n pray_v that_o they_o may_v comprehend_v with_o all_o saint_n what_o be_v the_o height_n and_o breadth_n and_o length_n and_o depth_n of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n which_o pass_v knowledge_n that_o be_v to_o know_v this_o to_o their_o own_o soul_n and_o what_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o that_o they_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o 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precious_a fear_n in_o the_o heart_n than_o all_o the_o terror_n sight_n and_o vision_n of_o the_o indignation_n of_o god_n against_o the_o soul_n for_o sin_n can_v possible_o beget_v all_o the_o reason_n that_o can_v be_v give_v why_o it_o shall_v endanger_v the_o soul_n to_o presume_v be_v only_o this_o that_o the_o apply_v christ_n in_o two_o large_a a_o measure_n in_o his_o comfort_n shall_v make_v the_o soul_n without_o fear_n now_o the_o soul_n be_v never_o so_o fill_v with_o holy_a fear_n as_o when_o it_o have_v the_o large_a comprehension_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a the_o large_a comprehension_n the_o soul_n have_v of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o more_o natural_a be_v the_o love_n to_o jesus_n christ_n now_o love_n be_v extend_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n when_o it_o rest_v upon_o he_o or_o fetch_v in_o joy_n through_o believe_v and_o according_a as_o love_n be_v extend_v so_o be_v fear_v extend_v love_n and_o fear_v go_v hand_n in_o hand_n you_o can_v divide_v they_o a_o man_n of_o large_a love_n be_v a_o man_n of_o large_a fear_n the_o reason_n be_v plain_a the_o more_o dear_a any_o object_n be_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o more_o a_o man_n fear_v to_o lose_v it_o four_o when_o the_o lord_n christ_n be_v apply_v most_o for_o comfort_n then_o do_v a_o holy_a jealousy_n rise_v high_a in_o the_o heart_n when_o love_n rise_v high_a jealousy_n rise_v high_a jealousy_n be_v compound_v of_o love_n and_o anger_n or_o love_n and_o hatred_n where_o love_n run_v out_o large_o in_o zeal_n there_o be_v a_o zeal_n of_o hatred_n against_o all_o that_o shall_v deprive_v we_o of_o it_o put_v a_o fearful_a man_n and_o a_o jealous_a man_n together_o to_z watch_z over_o a_o belove_a object_n and_o you_o need_v not_o fear_v their_o sleep_v thus_o fear_v and_o jealousy_n meet_v together_o in_o the_o soul_n will_v make_v it_o watchful_a lest_o there_o shall_v be_v the_o least_o outgoing_a of_o the_o heart_n from_o jesus_n christ_n second_o neither_o can_v it_o dry_v up_o the_o repent_v or_o penitent_a tear_n too_o soon_o it_o be_v as_o impossible_a that_o the_o spring_n of_o godly_a sorrow_n shall_v be_v seal_v up_o by_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o the_o large_a measure_n for_o the_o comfort_v of_o the_o soul_n as_o it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v make_v the_o soul_n presume_v the_o foundation_n of_o this_o principle_n of_o darkness_n be_v lay_v upon_o a_o twofold_a mistake_n first_o that_o the_o discern_a eye_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o sin_n shall_v be_v discern_v shall_v be_v close_v up_o with_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o apprehension_n of_o large_a comfort_n from_o jesus_n christ_n second_o that_o the_o sight_n or_o apprehension_n of_o a_o defect_n of_o comfort_n in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n for_o his_o soul_n for_o the_o present_a shall_v be_v the_o original_a of_o true_a godly_a sorrow_n and_o so_o that_o godly_a sorrow_n shall_v perish_v when_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n suitable_a to_o his_o needy_a soul_n appear_v now_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n whereby_o he_o may_v see_v his_o own_o wretchedness_n merit_n and_o desert_n be_v more_o clear_a by_o the_o sight_n of_o enlarge_a comfort_n from_o jesus_n christ_n i._o the_o eye_n of_o the_o soul_n receive_v more_o divine_a light_n to_o discover_v sin_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o by_o how_o much_o in_o a_o great_a degree_n the_o soul_n apprehend_v enlarge_v comfort_n through_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n this_o be_v that_o precious_a eyesalve_n speak_v of_o rev._n 3._o that_o christ_n invit_v soul_n to_o come_v and_o buy_v of_o he_o that_o be_v the_o reason_n mary_n weep_v so_o much_o and_o wash_v the_o foot_n of_o jesus_n christ_n with_o her_o tear_n christ_n tell_v you_o it_o be_v because_o she_o love_v much_o and_o what_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o that_o love_n but_o only_o the_o apprehension_n of_o the_o glorious_a privilege_n to_o she_o in_o jesus_n christ_n 2._o the_o 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there_o can_v be_v but_o two_o sense_n in_o which_o this_o proposition_n can_v be_v take_v first_o it_o must_v either_o be_v mean_v thus_o that_o the_o lord_n christ_n must_v not_o be_v apply_v for_o comfort_v of_o soul_n too_o much_o that_o be_v not_o apply_v to_o comfort_v the_o soul_n in_o his_o necessity_n with_o two_o great_a a_o confidence_n now_o there_o it_o cross_v the_o precious_a heavenly_a light_n that_o shine_v from_o the_o sun_n of_o righteousness_n the_o lord_n christ_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o great_a command_n that_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o receive_v he_o whole_a with_o all_o his_o privilege_n propound_v to_o the_o soul_n with_o a_o full_a assurance_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o abraham_n faith_n be_v commend_v that_o he_o do_v not_o doubt_v at_o all_o rom._n 4.18_o 19_o 20._o or_o second_o the_o application_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n too_o much_o must_v be_v mean_v thus_o that_o he_o may_v be_v apply_v too_o confident_o to_o the_o 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privilege_n of_o jesus_n christ_n to_o his_o soul_n but_o there_o be_v two_o thing_n to_o be_v open_v about_o this_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o 1._o though_o jesus_n christ_n can_v be_v apply_v for_o comfort_v the_o soul_n too_o much_o be_v the_o soul_n in_o what_o condition_n it_o can_v be_v yet_o the_o lord_n christ_n may_v be_v look_v into_o for_o comfort_v a_o soul_n too_o much_o that_o be_v when_o soul_n look_v upon_o jesus_n christ_n for_o comfort_n without_o receive_v he_o as_o he_o be_v tender_v by_o god_n to_o the_o soul_n though_o christ_n be_v the_o object_n of_o all_o true_a comfort_n to_o the_o soul_n yet_o it_o be_v christ_n as_o he_o be_v in_o union_n with_o the_o soul_n for_o it_o be_v not_o the_o goodness_n of_o a_o object_n simple_o and_o absolute_o consider_v that_o do_v send_v down_o strength_n and_o life_n into_o the_o heart_n in_o behold_v of_o it_o but_o it_o be_v the_o goodness_n of_o a_o object_n appropriate_v to_o its_o self_n 2._o jesus_n christ_n may_v 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this_o that_o he_o must_v behold_v some_o promise_n pass_v over_o to_o he_o by_o jesus_n christ_n before_o he_o can_v believe_v it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n this_o principle_n be_v so_o cunning_o forge_v in_o hell_n that_o it_o be_v scarce_o discern_v from_o a_o principle_n of_o light_n we_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o help_v you_o to_o discern_v it_o to_o be_v a_o principle_n of_o darkness_n i_o find_v three_o foundation_n upon_o which_o this_o principle_n be_v build_v 1._o that_o it_o can_v possible_o be_v lawful_a for_o every_o soul_n to_o believe_v that_o it_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o take_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n for_o say_v the_o soul_n than_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v put_v upon_o it_o to_o believe_v a_o lie_n 2._o that_o it_o must_v be_v through_o a_o soul_n right_a to_o some_o promise_n that_o he_o come_v to_o have_v a_o right_n to_o jesus_n christ_n now_o this_o be_v a_o 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object_n of_o faith_n believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n 3._o a_o three_o foundation_n of_o this_o principle_n be_v this_o that_o only_o those_o promise_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o holy_a qualiquality_n in_o sanctify_a soul_n be_v assure_v promise_n or_o promise_n that_o can_v assure_v unto_o a_o soul_n faith_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v receive_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n say_v the_o soul_n there_o be_v invite_v promise_n and_o assure_v promise_n now_o invite_v promise_n speak_v so_o general_a as_o none_o can_v discern_v his_o union_n from_o thence_o but_o the_o promise_n to_o the_o grace_n they_o in_o a_o manner_n particularize_v soul_n now_o hence_o the_o soul_n conclude_v thus_o it_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v a_o necessary_a precedent_n before_o a_o soul_n assurance_n that_o god_n will_v take_v he_o into_o union_n with_o christ_n that_o he_o see_v some_o holy_a quality_n in_o his_o own_o spirit_n to_o which_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v some_o such_o promise_n now_o 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his_o union_n four_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v instruct_v all_o other_o the_o better_a by_o his_o deal_n with_o some_o believe_a soul_n god_n instruct_v weak_a believer_n in_o this_o that_o the_o evidence_n of_o union_n be_v not_o essential_a unto_o union_n v._o that_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o precious_a saint_n may_v be_v veil_v and_o hide_v and_o this_o may_v be_v in_o judgement_n to_o the_o world_n that_o they_o may_v stumble_v at_o the_o saint_n and_o judge_v they_o dispicable_a fool_n that_o spend_v their_o time_n in_o sadness_n and_o melancholy_n cau._n 4._o four_o there_o be_v a_o four_o causion_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o efficacy_n of_o this_o bless_a record_n that_o the_o spirit_n give_v to_o a_o believe_a soul_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n aught_o to_o continue_v when_o the_o record_n itself_o do_v not_o actual_o continue_v the_o record_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n be_v the_o judicial_a sentence_n the_o spirit_n cast_v upon_o the_o soul_n final_a estate_n and_o therefore_o aught_o to_o be_v total_o definitive_a never_o to_o be_v call_v in_o question_n by_o that_o believe_a soul_n but_o the_o soul_n for_o ever_o after_o even_o in_o the_o sad_a interruption_n of_o that_o bless_a spirit_n ought_v to_o say_v though_o i_o do_v fall_n i_o shall_v arise_v though_o i_o have_v no_o vision_n of_o the_o sweet_a face_n of_o my_o redeemer_n yet_o i_o shall_v see_v he_o face_n to_o face_n when_o i_o shall_v be_v altogether_o like_a unto_o he_o it_o be_v infinite_a sinfulness_n for_o that_o believe_a soul_n ever_o to_o call_v in_o question_n the_o love_n of_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n after_o the_o spirit_n have_v thus_o avouch_v it_o to_o the_o soul_n thus_o you_o have_v hear_v in_o some_o measure_n the_o grand_a question_n open_v which_o be_v how_o a_o soul_n may_v certain_o and_o infallible_o know_v that_o he_o be_v unite_v to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n i_o shall_v now_o come_v to_o answer_v to_o the_o second_o question_n which_o be_v this_o que._n 2._o how_o soul_n that_o conceive_v themselves_o to_o have_v receive_v certain_a and_o satisfy_a evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n may_v konw_n certain_o and_o infallible_o that_o their_o evidence_n of_o this_o union_n with_o christ_n receive_v be_v only_o from_o god_n and_o not_o a_o diabolical_a enthusiasm_n or_o inspiration_n or_o a_o delusion_n by_o the_o devil_n translation_n of_o himself_o into_o a_o angelical_a glory_n now_o for_o the_o clear_a explication_n or_o unfolding_n this_o question_n there_o must_v be_v divers_a thing_n premise_v there_o be_v four_o thing_n i_o must_v premise_v concern_v those_o diabolical_a inspiration_n and_o there_o be_v four_o thing_n concern_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o soul_n trial_n of_o his_o evidence_n receive_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o delusion_n or_o whether_o it_o be_v from_o the_o lord_n in_o christ_n pre._n 1._o first_o i_o must_v premise_v that_o all_o the_o dimension_n of_o the_o implacable_a malice_n of_o the_o infernal_a power_n be_v direct_o set_v aâ—_n work_v against_o every_o believer_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o darken_n the_o precious_a evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n the_o centre_n wherein_o all_o the_o hellish_a design_n that_o be_v practise_v against_o a_o believe_a soul_n meet_v together_o in_o one_o all_o the_o fiery_a dart_n that_o he_o shoot_v from_o his_o hellish_a quiver_n against_o believe_a soul_n be_v intend_v to_o batter_v down_o the_o tower_n of_o strong_a confidence_n of_o the_o lord_n acceptance_n of_o his_o soul_n into_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n his_o most_o curse_a insinuation_n into_o any_o believe_a heart_n allure_a to_o any_o corruption_n intentional_o tend_v towards_o the_o darken_n the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n countenance_n that_o shine_v upon_o the_o believe_a soul_n certain_o the_o devil_n act_v with_o so_o high_a a_o hand_n against_o the_o apostle_n peter_n that_o cause_v he_o to_o deny_v his_o bless_a lord_n and_o master_n the_o lord_n jesus_n intentional_o end_v in_o this_o to_o overthrow_v his_o confidence_n in_o christ_n and_o therefore_o christ_n tell_v he_o he_o have_v pray_v for_o he_o that_o his_o faith_n fail_v not_o nay_o the_o bless_a head_n of_o all_o believe_a soul_n the_o lord_n jesus_n himself_o who_o be_v a_o perfect_a example_n and_o pattern_n to_o all_o believe_a soul_n in_o temptation_n he_o be_v encounter_v withal_o in_o this_o way_n by_o the_o grand_a adversary_n the_o devil_n the_o devil_n make_v his_o close_a and_o strong_a battery_n against_o his_o confidence_n of_o the_o hypostatical_a union_n between_o the_o father_n and_o he_o therefore_o say_v he_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n command_v these_o stone_n to_o be_v make_v bread_n and_o in_o like_a manner_n all_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n be_v in_o a_o particular_a manner_n employ_v against_o every_o believer_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o christ_n and_o therefore_o he_o especial_o endeavour_v to_o strike_v down_o their_o faith_n whence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n be_v chief_o over_o the_o devil_n in_o that_o particular_a 1_o thes_n 3.5_o say_v he_o i_o send_v to_o know_v your_o faith_n least_o by_o some_o mean_v the_o tempter_n have_v tempt_v you_o and_o our_o labour_n be_v in_o vain_a indeed_o there_o be_v many_o reason_n why_o the_o peculiar_a malice_n of_o hell_n shall_v work_v in_o all_o its_o strength_n against_o believer_n evidence_n of_o their_o union_n with_o christ_n i._o in_o regard_v the_o faith_n that_o be_v necessary_o draw_v forth_o into_o exercise_n with_o strength_n and_o power_n upon_o receive_v evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n be_v a_o peculiar_a object_n of_o the_o devil_n malice_n and_o that_o in_o three_o respect_n 1._o that_o faith_n which_o be_v draw_v forth_o into_o exercise_n be_v the_o most_o direct_a opposite_a of_o the_o devil_n it_o be_v the_o devil_n grand_a adversary_n in_o that_o lie_v all_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o believe_a soul_n against_o all_o the_o devil_n encounter_n it_o be_v the_o shield_n that_o quench_v all_o the_o devil_n fiery_a dart_n eph._n 5.6_o it_o be_v that_o whereby_o the_o soul_n resist_v the_o devil_n till_o he_o gain_v the_o conquest_n and_o put_v that_o infernal_a adversary_n to_o flight_n 1_o pet._n 5.9_o 2._o in_o regard_v it_o be_v the_o most_o triumphant_a conqueror_n over_o all_o his_o army_n that_o he_o call_v in_o for_o his_o assistance_n against_o the_o believe_a soul_n this_o be_v the_o victory_n whereby_o we_o overcome_v the_o world_n 1_o john_n 5.4_o that_o be_v all_o that_o either_o within_o or_o without_o the_o soul_n shall_v concur_v to_o the_o draw_v it_o from_o obedience_n to_o the_o lord_n will_n 3._o that_o faith_n that_o be_v necessary_o draw_v out_o into_o exercise_n upon_o the_o receive_n the_o evidence_n of_o the_o union_n be_v that_o which_o give_v the_o lord_n his_o most_o peculiar_a glory_n and_o honour_n of_o his_o precious_a truth_n by_o this_o the_o believe_a soul_n set_v to_o his_o seal_n that_o god_n be_v true_a john_n 3.33_o now_o the_o devil_n peculiar_a malice_n be_v against_o the_o bless_a majesty_n of_o heaven_n thence_o his_o malice_n be_v against_o this_o faith_n that_o be_v draw_v out_o into_o exercise_n upon_o the_o soul_n receive_v evidence_n of_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n ii_o in_o regard_v the_o joy_n and_o comfort_n that_o be_v the_o unseparable_a consequence_n of_o the_o soul_n receive_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n be_v another_o peculiar_a object_n of_o the_o devil_n malice_n envy_n work_v infinite_o in_o the_o devil_n bosom_n upon_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o unspeakable_a joy_n as_o poor_a believe_a soul_n be_v fill_v with_o see_v angel_n who_o nature_n be_v more_o glorious_a be_v lefâ—_n absolute_o destitute_a of_o joy_n and_o comfort_n now_o from_o these_o working_n of_o envy_n hatred_n work_v also_o infinite_o and_o unspeakable_o in_o the_o devil_n bosom_n against_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n with_o christ_n iii_o the_o believer_n evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n be_v the_o peculiar_a work_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o necessity_n must_v be_v the_o peculiar_a object_n of_o the_o devil_n malice_n there_o be_v such_o a_o diametrical_a opposition_n between_o the_o devil_n and_o that_o bless_a spirit_n every_o work_n of_o that_o bless_a spirit_n be_v infinite_o abominate_v by_o he_o and_o thence_o this_o evidence_n of_o the_o soul_n union_n be_v the_o particular_a object_n of_o the_o devil_n malice_n in_o regard_n it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o bless_a spirit_n to_o be_v the_o comforter_n of_o those_o believe_a soul_n iv_o in_o regard_v the_o believe_a soul_n through_o that_o evidence_n of_o his_o union_n with_o the_o lord_n jesus_n have_v some_o kind_n of_o fruition_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o